Close first half on a heavy pitch. Thought we'd weathered their best , creative play after the first 20 minutes and we turned round half time only a goal down from an unchallenged header from a corner in the 45th minute. Unfortunately we faded in the second half kicking downhill and they kept going.
We equalised straight after the break from an excellent move commencing in our 6 yard box leading to a fierce shot by Richard being parried by their keeper only for Bren to race in and smash home. A period ensued where we were punished three times by breaks following our giving the ball away (and I mean giving it away) and they were out of sight. Another goal, from the narrowest of angles ensued due to total lack of physical presence of some defenders. They certainly would not have made it so easy. Dave left goal to become man of the match in a cameo display at full back. We played some of the best football of the game in this last phase, failing to hit the target with final shots and having one well saved. Bren (him not t'other) poached another from inside the six yard box. The older Brendan had by this time replaced Dave in goal and had conceded before even getting the gloves on. Appalling back pass, no chance the keeper. Martin was nutted by his opponent who was asked to leave the pitch. He did and in fairness he came back and apologised before leaving Knebworth altogether. Still it was a game and a wholly advisable activity to act as a festive season antidote.
A merry gathering in the Station which was roomy and civilised for once. Everyone little fingers!
Merry Christmas and happy New Year to all
Be happy!
Goodbye Sir Ronald
Quack quack
Sunday 22 December 2013
Monday 16 December 2013
Knobs 0 Old Owens 2
A poorish performance yet we were hardly kicked out of sight . Indeed for an hour we trailed only to
a fortuitous early goal, a cross shot evading the sprawling dive of stand in keeper Gavin. We'd hit the bar in the first half and Martin crashed one against the bar before we were awaded a penalty.
Woody had dispossessed their keeper who yanked his legs from beneath him. Up stepped Steve, who never misses his favourite hotspot low to the keeper's ......... yet 'twas ordained he should thrash it miles over. Twas written in the runes, simply had to happen! They scored a very good goal on the break, finished with a well struck shot.
All so hopeful at the start when we eventually got underway with our 11 against their 9. Perhaps we sniffed a huge advantage since they said reinforcements were on the way. Yet they controlled all the early exchanges. We had started badly flicking and farting about, the ball a hot potato, rarely under anyone's control and passing to each other a distant memory. There was effort and application but we seemed unable to get started.
Some points:
Their keeper, for whom the league rule was established that a keeper can be 25, took a lifetime and a half to retrieve the ball and take his goal kicks. Time wasting? Well it's certainly pretty fucking boring. Can't understand why people make an effort to get out to play a game then do everything they can to reduce the time allocated for the enjoyment of said game. He was like an old 68 year old and I should know!
The goalie rule was introduced three years ago to facilitate Owens participation in the league. I was and am still opposed. We had no goalie more often than not these past years and outfield players fill in. Other teams do the same. We had a chance to have a 24 year old keeper yesterday but chose to play by the 'rules' and put one of our most potent players in goal.
It was noted that a couple of their makeshift side were a tad on the young side, a centre half whose early sallies into shaving extended only to his head and either a very young forward or one who had defied the ageing process since puberty! We have recourse to challenge- league rules but it's so demeaning and whiffs of sour grapes. Back to birth certificate swapping pre kick off.
Onwards and upwards 2014.
Woody left early to see Spurs. How did they get on?
None of the opposition showed at the pub and four of us did.
Merry Christmas, Checquers 7pm Thursday.
a fortuitous early goal, a cross shot evading the sprawling dive of stand in keeper Gavin. We'd hit the bar in the first half and Martin crashed one against the bar before we were awaded a penalty.
Woody had dispossessed their keeper who yanked his legs from beneath him. Up stepped Steve, who never misses his favourite hotspot low to the keeper's ......... yet 'twas ordained he should thrash it miles over. Twas written in the runes, simply had to happen! They scored a very good goal on the break, finished with a well struck shot.
All so hopeful at the start when we eventually got underway with our 11 against their 9. Perhaps we sniffed a huge advantage since they said reinforcements were on the way. Yet they controlled all the early exchanges. We had started badly flicking and farting about, the ball a hot potato, rarely under anyone's control and passing to each other a distant memory. There was effort and application but we seemed unable to get started.
Some points:
Their keeper, for whom the league rule was established that a keeper can be 25, took a lifetime and a half to retrieve the ball and take his goal kicks. Time wasting? Well it's certainly pretty fucking boring. Can't understand why people make an effort to get out to play a game then do everything they can to reduce the time allocated for the enjoyment of said game. He was like an old 68 year old and I should know!
The goalie rule was introduced three years ago to facilitate Owens participation in the league. I was and am still opposed. We had no goalie more often than not these past years and outfield players fill in. Other teams do the same. We had a chance to have a 24 year old keeper yesterday but chose to play by the 'rules' and put one of our most potent players in goal.
It was noted that a couple of their makeshift side were a tad on the young side, a centre half whose early sallies into shaving extended only to his head and either a very young forward or one who had defied the ageing process since puberty! We have recourse to challenge- league rules but it's so demeaning and whiffs of sour grapes. Back to birth certificate swapping pre kick off.
Onwards and upwards 2014.
Woody left early to see Spurs. How did they get on?
None of the opposition showed at the pub and four of us did.
Merry Christmas, Checquers 7pm Thursday.
Monday 9 December 2013
Saints 1 Knobs 5 - report by William Wordsworth
At this beautiful autumn time, here is a report in rhythm and rhyme.
At The Station we met (well half the team) where Ronald was missing but he had a scheme.
A piece of paper was handed on, 4-5-1 he wrote and then he was gone.
So off we headed for the early start, to St. Albans to play with great heart.
And we started well, with plenty of passing, that left their players, running and gasping.
But from a corner they scored a goal, where the ball rebounded ‘into the hole’.
Which was met by their player with an almighty thwack, that left poor Tony on his back.
He said that ultimately he couldn’t see but why then (we ask) is he our goalie?
A few minutes later, we understood why, when he saved with his feet – what a good guy!
After some struggles, we finally scored, when James carved through the defence like he was a sword.
Scored with a deflection, into the corner, he was as pleased as punch, like little Jack Horner.
Along came the second, with a run down the wing and a pull back saw Nick doing his thing.
Bursting into the box, with those little legs, he shot home under pressure off one of the pegs.
The third came along with some brilliant play, with Martin’s passing and Paul’s great off-lay
Gavin controlled the ball inside the box, and tucked it away like a cunning fox.
The final goal we saw in the first half, came from a Bully free-kick (he’s back on the staff)
And it was pretty much over when the whistle blew, a 4-1 lead was mighty and true.
In the second half, the pace settled down, the pitch sometimes resembled a ghost town.
But Paul kept on hustling and deserved a goal, with a fantastic run and some quality control.
It’s true to say they hardly had a chance as we gave them the runaround, a merry dance.
At the back we were solid, a state of bliss, with Chairman Al, Tony, James and Chris.
In the midfield we battled, really fully, with Nick, Martyn, Richard and the returning Bully.
Up front was Paul getting better and better, and Gavin breathed hard like he was wearing a sweater.
Chris Cox came on and passed it around and it was nice to see Brendan come up from the town.
So there you have it, another victory and we all went home for a nice cup of tea.
Three on the bounce, we’re going up the league but next week, we might see a little fatigue.
Old Owen’s at home, with plenty away but let’s see what happens next Sunday!
At The Station we met (well half the team) where Ronald was missing but he had a scheme.
A piece of paper was handed on, 4-5-1 he wrote and then he was gone.
So off we headed for the early start, to St. Albans to play with great heart.
And we started well, with plenty of passing, that left their players, running and gasping.
But from a corner they scored a goal, where the ball rebounded ‘into the hole’.
Which was met by their player with an almighty thwack, that left poor Tony on his back.
He said that ultimately he couldn’t see but why then (we ask) is he our goalie?
A few minutes later, we understood why, when he saved with his feet – what a good guy!
After some struggles, we finally scored, when James carved through the defence like he was a sword.
Scored with a deflection, into the corner, he was as pleased as punch, like little Jack Horner.
Along came the second, with a run down the wing and a pull back saw Nick doing his thing.
Bursting into the box, with those little legs, he shot home under pressure off one of the pegs.
The third came along with some brilliant play, with Martin’s passing and Paul’s great off-lay
Gavin controlled the ball inside the box, and tucked it away like a cunning fox.
The final goal we saw in the first half, came from a Bully free-kick (he’s back on the staff)
And it was pretty much over when the whistle blew, a 4-1 lead was mighty and true.
In the second half, the pace settled down, the pitch sometimes resembled a ghost town.
But Paul kept on hustling and deserved a goal, with a fantastic run and some quality control.
It’s true to say they hardly had a chance as we gave them the runaround, a merry dance.
At the back we were solid, a state of bliss, with Chairman Al, Tony, James and Chris.
In the midfield we battled, really fully, with Nick, Martyn, Richard and the returning Bully.
Up front was Paul getting better and better, and Gavin breathed hard like he was wearing a sweater.
Chris Cox came on and passed it around and it was nice to see Brendan come up from the town.
So there you have it, another victory and we all went home for a nice cup of tea.
Three on the bounce, we’re going up the league but next week, we might see a little fatigue.
Old Owen’s at home, with plenty away but let’s see what happens next Sunday!
Sunday 1 December 2013
Sand ridge 0 Knobs 1
Well well! A victory in time added on . Deserved? Possibly, no, no probably.
It was a very well fought game, in good spirits and purist football did not come easy on a bouncy, difficult pitch. But full marks to the team for a real battling performance. Tony, a tower of strength in goal, will be outstanding when he gets a bit more experience! Two world class saves in the second half, the second a backward flip with 90 degrees difficulty to turn a looping effort over left one simply lost in admiration. The back four gave them nowt with James a rock. Paul was heartily involved in nearly everything going forward and his overhead kick from the edge of the area was brilliantly tipped over by their keeper. But if one was so churlish as to award a man of the match award I would have no hesitation in giving it to the steadily improving Brendan, Walkden not Wren.
Of the many passes he made forwards I cannot recall a single one not reaching its intended target. And many of them were subtly dangerous turning us from defence to attack. Excellent. Of course I take full credit for sorting out the penalty taker before the game, in the absence of the much lamented Steve Bull. Brendan, Walkden not Wren, immediately volunteered so there was no hesitation when he strode forward to beat their keeper from the spot, late, late late. The keeper, said to have been an ex pro, got a hand to it but the power did the job. Joel had won the kick when being jockeyed by their centre half then had two legs swiped from beneath him from an impatient late arriving defender. No complaints from anyone. Tony K was 41 today and his birthday was celebrated with a banquet of sausages - we'll probably have a sausage at centre half next week.
Two good games coming up but I fear availability will not be good. Goalkeeper anybody?
It was a very well fought game, in good spirits and purist football did not come easy on a bouncy, difficult pitch. But full marks to the team for a real battling performance. Tony, a tower of strength in goal, will be outstanding when he gets a bit more experience! Two world class saves in the second half, the second a backward flip with 90 degrees difficulty to turn a looping effort over left one simply lost in admiration. The back four gave them nowt with James a rock. Paul was heartily involved in nearly everything going forward and his overhead kick from the edge of the area was brilliantly tipped over by their keeper. But if one was so churlish as to award a man of the match award I would have no hesitation in giving it to the steadily improving Brendan, Walkden not Wren.
Of the many passes he made forwards I cannot recall a single one not reaching its intended target. And many of them were subtly dangerous turning us from defence to attack. Excellent. Of course I take full credit for sorting out the penalty taker before the game, in the absence of the much lamented Steve Bull. Brendan, Walkden not Wren, immediately volunteered so there was no hesitation when he strode forward to beat their keeper from the spot, late, late late. The keeper, said to have been an ex pro, got a hand to it but the power did the job. Joel had won the kick when being jockeyed by their centre half then had two legs swiped from beneath him from an impatient late arriving defender. No complaints from anyone. Tony K was 41 today and his birthday was celebrated with a banquet of sausages - we'll probably have a sausage at centre half next week.
Two good games coming up but I fear availability will not be good. Goalkeeper anybody?
Monday 25 November 2013
Blunham 0 Knobs 2
After two weeks of sheer mayhem in the life of Knebworth Old Boys, we looked to the heavens for inspiration and today, the great Lord of football delivered.
Many of us met at the station and we looked at our manager Ron and sang ‘Guide us, O Thou Great Redeemer’ and he turned round and said, good luck chaps but Chairman Al is in charge, I’ve got things to do. BUT before he went off on his merry way, he handed the 12 commandments to Al, (otherwise known as the team sheet) and all was calm in the world.
At Blunham’s new ground in Caldecote, the team all introduced themselves to each other and we strode onto the pitch as one. The KNOBS, the mighty KNOBS. And it was clear within the first 5 minutes of play, we were there to win and win we would. No animal is more dangerous than the wounded one and after the shenanigans of recent times, all was forgiven and a new era was born of pressing football and some lovely triangles and one touch play. We had a few opportunities in the first half but we only had one goal to show for all our pressure and that was Gavin slotting home from a tight angle, thanks to nice work beforehand from Martyn and then Paul. The only chance they had was Chairman Al trying to nod home from one of their crosses.
In the second half, the game opened up even more but again, we looked untroubled. James at the back was a rock and anything he missed (which wasn’t a lot) was swept up by croaky Tony. We eventually won by two goals but it should have been more. Paul on the wing, was a Strong Deliverer, strong Deliverer and put a beauty of a ball onto the head of Martyn who found the back of the net. Inexplicably it was flagged offside. The worst decision was to come though. After Paul had netted our second after a weaving run and pull back from Gavin, he found himself running onto goal and was brutally hacked down by their centre back. No penalty was given. Even their players couldn’t believe it but as the ref says, he can only give what he sees. One assumes he was looking the other way at that point. But it didn’t matter in the end. An away victory. And some nice grub as well put on by the Blunham football club.
Normally you’d be looking around for a man of the match but in this victory, team was everything. There is no I in TEAM and Together Everyone Achieves More. Working from back to front, Tony C was cool and collected in goal, he held the ball with thy powerful hand and offered no Cruyff turns. Chairman Al was solid at right back, as was Brendan who is Mr Consistent. The centre-halves have already been mentioned but as a back four they looked solid the whole time. Darren A and Nick in the centre midfield hassled and pressed the whole game and knocked the ball about nicely. I’m still surprised how well Nick hangs in the air being a little fella. As Brendan said, he’s like LeBron James. It must be his magical ‘tache. Don’t shave it off Nick or you’ll be like Samson. Martyn has already been mentioned but his all round play was very good and always supported the forwards. Gerry was his normal energetic self on the right hand side, working well defensively and offering an attacking option. Chris Cox came on at half time and got fully involved in the action and the two up front complemented each other well. Paul is getting better with each game he plays, although he’s got to watch those yellow cards!!! And Nick. A disgrace. RESPECT!
So onwards and upwards. When it comes to that kind of football, feed me till I want no more. Feed me till I want no more. KNOBS were born, KNOBS had died, KNOBS have come again.
Many of us met at the station and we looked at our manager Ron and sang ‘Guide us, O Thou Great Redeemer’ and he turned round and said, good luck chaps but Chairman Al is in charge, I’ve got things to do. BUT before he went off on his merry way, he handed the 12 commandments to Al, (otherwise known as the team sheet) and all was calm in the world.
At Blunham’s new ground in Caldecote, the team all introduced themselves to each other and we strode onto the pitch as one. The KNOBS, the mighty KNOBS. And it was clear within the first 5 minutes of play, we were there to win and win we would. No animal is more dangerous than the wounded one and after the shenanigans of recent times, all was forgiven and a new era was born of pressing football and some lovely triangles and one touch play. We had a few opportunities in the first half but we only had one goal to show for all our pressure and that was Gavin slotting home from a tight angle, thanks to nice work beforehand from Martyn and then Paul. The only chance they had was Chairman Al trying to nod home from one of their crosses.
In the second half, the game opened up even more but again, we looked untroubled. James at the back was a rock and anything he missed (which wasn’t a lot) was swept up by croaky Tony. We eventually won by two goals but it should have been more. Paul on the wing, was a Strong Deliverer, strong Deliverer and put a beauty of a ball onto the head of Martyn who found the back of the net. Inexplicably it was flagged offside. The worst decision was to come though. After Paul had netted our second after a weaving run and pull back from Gavin, he found himself running onto goal and was brutally hacked down by their centre back. No penalty was given. Even their players couldn’t believe it but as the ref says, he can only give what he sees. One assumes he was looking the other way at that point. But it didn’t matter in the end. An away victory. And some nice grub as well put on by the Blunham football club.
Normally you’d be looking around for a man of the match but in this victory, team was everything. There is no I in TEAM and Together Everyone Achieves More. Working from back to front, Tony C was cool and collected in goal, he held the ball with thy powerful hand and offered no Cruyff turns. Chairman Al was solid at right back, as was Brendan who is Mr Consistent. The centre-halves have already been mentioned but as a back four they looked solid the whole time. Darren A and Nick in the centre midfield hassled and pressed the whole game and knocked the ball about nicely. I’m still surprised how well Nick hangs in the air being a little fella. As Brendan said, he’s like LeBron James. It must be his magical ‘tache. Don’t shave it off Nick or you’ll be like Samson. Martyn has already been mentioned but his all round play was very good and always supported the forwards. Gerry was his normal energetic self on the right hand side, working well defensively and offering an attacking option. Chris Cox came on at half time and got fully involved in the action and the two up front complemented each other well. Paul is getting better with each game he plays, although he’s got to watch those yellow cards!!! And Nick. A disgrace. RESPECT!
So onwards and upwards. When it comes to that kind of football, feed me till I want no more. Feed me till I want no more. KNOBS were born, KNOBS had died, KNOBS have come again.
Monday 11 November 2013
Knobs 1 Welwyn 5
Again lack of personnel affected a game we should have been more competitive in. Joel again failed to turn up. Why? I dunno. We played with the bare 11 and competed well until half time by which time we'd had some telling moves but were 1-0 down. The goal came early, a goalkick straight to their man who avoiding a challenge strode forward to score unopposed. Paul is a stand in keeper, he is a doughty opponent when playing out but between the sticks he is just a brave person who is prepared to sacrifice his Sunday morning to help us out by volunteering to play in goal.
The fact that he forgot totally today what his hands were for is no criticism. Who else was prepared to pull on that particular unheralded jersey. No fucker, except me, as I say no fucker! So in spite of a competitive performance by outfielders our goalkeeping would have made sense to some of Jamie Carragher's observations (sub titles please). Mind you they missed a few as did we but their keeper was a keeper and ours wasn't.
First half showed the mettle of our lads, well done but in the second we were always battling a losing fight.
Gavin did manage to be become cosily acquainted with the woodwork on two occasions, once striking a post with ferocity after an incisive move and the other doing ever so well to round the keeper before inexplicably striking the bar- gravity?
Excellent performances by the dogged Gerry and Brendan (no the other one) at fullbacks and an immense performance from Richard at centre half. Tony played steadily at the back always organising and I thought they did well. I don't think Brendan misplaced a pass throughout the game and Gerry mixed long punts on a heavy pitch with cunning step a sides before feeding Gavin who was particularly threatening in the first half and indeed throughout. The combatitive Nick in midfield was great but subsided somewhat in the second half but did get opposition mentions in the pub afterwards, 'always been a dirty bastard'! I didn't notice. Chris Cox, 58, played his guts out after a long absence and Steve, in possibly his last game strove. He notched his usual penalty after the surging Richard was toppled in the area. I've always rated Steve, a bit of class and a bit different but always available to play and always organised. I shall miss him should he venture forth to pastures new and/or different. Up front new boy Paul strove in for him an unusual position wide left and was on the whole bereft of any switch play especially first half. Vinnie, God bless him bludgeoned around in his own area often defending sturdily on their corners but was so often on his own going forward - not a lot of service. Gavin threatened throughout , as he should, so don't call him an enigma, he knows what it means.
So I say well done, the result was a bit exaggerated but there you are.
SEVENNNN!
Paul, the valiant keeper was sporting a lovely shiner in the pub courtesy of punching himself in the eye. Honest! Others attending in the pub were Tony, Steve, bought
me a
pint on my 68th birthday, Brendan Wren who bought me a pint and Gerry who offered me a pint. Also there in a tiny group of us enjoying white sausages and 'pizza' were Bolton Brendan and shiner Paul. They, Welwyn, were all there, gloating bastards.
Still Newcastle beat Spurs, the Makkems won and unfortunately so did Man Utd. All 1-0's, a visual feast.
Next week an away league game in Enfield which I very much doubt will take place. We are in a very crap place, it's now all up to the so called membership to think about priorities and wonder what we are going to do in the future. Me? I'm an old man, what I think is irrelevant. Anyway I opened the doors, sorted the keys, went home to find pegs in the garage, stood and watched, cleared up the dressing rooms with Paul, locked up and had to take the kit home to wash, 2 weeks out of 3 and I didn't even play! (It's washed and liberally sprayed with itching powder for the next game, should get a reaction).
Once Knobs had a committee, regular season meetings. Now it's all just a joke! Things don't just run on a wing, prayer and a joke! Where do we go- play on or fold you tell me!
Love to you all.
Howay the lads!
The fact that he forgot totally today what his hands were for is no criticism. Who else was prepared to pull on that particular unheralded jersey. No fucker, except me, as I say no fucker! So in spite of a competitive performance by outfielders our goalkeeping would have made sense to some of Jamie Carragher's observations (sub titles please). Mind you they missed a few as did we but their keeper was a keeper and ours wasn't.
First half showed the mettle of our lads, well done but in the second we were always battling a losing fight.
Gavin did manage to be become cosily acquainted with the woodwork on two occasions, once striking a post with ferocity after an incisive move and the other doing ever so well to round the keeper before inexplicably striking the bar- gravity?
Excellent performances by the dogged Gerry and Brendan (no the other one) at fullbacks and an immense performance from Richard at centre half. Tony played steadily at the back always organising and I thought they did well. I don't think Brendan misplaced a pass throughout the game and Gerry mixed long punts on a heavy pitch with cunning step a sides before feeding Gavin who was particularly threatening in the first half and indeed throughout. The combatitive Nick in midfield was great but subsided somewhat in the second half but did get opposition mentions in the pub afterwards, 'always been a dirty bastard'! I didn't notice. Chris Cox, 58, played his guts out after a long absence and Steve, in possibly his last game strove. He notched his usual penalty after the surging Richard was toppled in the area. I've always rated Steve, a bit of class and a bit different but always available to play and always organised. I shall miss him should he venture forth to pastures new and/or different. Up front new boy Paul strove in for him an unusual position wide left and was on the whole bereft of any switch play especially first half. Vinnie, God bless him bludgeoned around in his own area often defending sturdily on their corners but was so often on his own going forward - not a lot of service. Gavin threatened throughout , as he should, so don't call him an enigma, he knows what it means.
So I say well done, the result was a bit exaggerated but there you are.
SEVENNNN!
Paul, the valiant keeper was sporting a lovely shiner in the pub courtesy of punching himself in the eye. Honest! Others attending in the pub were Tony, Steve, bought
me a
pint on my 68th birthday, Brendan Wren who bought me a pint and Gerry who offered me a pint. Also there in a tiny group of us enjoying white sausages and 'pizza' were Bolton Brendan and shiner Paul. They, Welwyn, were all there, gloating bastards.
Still Newcastle beat Spurs, the Makkems won and unfortunately so did Man Utd. All 1-0's, a visual feast.
Next week an away league game in Enfield which I very much doubt will take place. We are in a very crap place, it's now all up to the so called membership to think about priorities and wonder what we are going to do in the future. Me? I'm an old man, what I think is irrelevant. Anyway I opened the doors, sorted the keys, went home to find pegs in the garage, stood and watched, cleared up the dressing rooms with Paul, locked up and had to take the kit home to wash, 2 weeks out of 3 and I didn't even play! (It's washed and liberally sprayed with itching powder for the next game, should get a reaction).
Once Knobs had a committee, regular season meetings. Now it's all just a joke! Things don't just run on a wing, prayer and a joke! Where do we go- play on or fold you tell me!
Love to you all.
Howay the lads!
Monday 4 November 2013
Harpenden 3 Knobs 3
Lovely day, a bit windy. And an explosive ending. New centre forward Paul showed his paces, nearly scoring in the first seconds. A comfortable first half should have seen us five ahead rather than the two. Unlikely as it felt to me, 2-0 half time was nowhere near enough with Harpenden somehow dominating second half going downhill with the wind behind them. I had thought we were comfortably enough placed to sacrifice Vinny for a rest at half time! How wrong I was.
A nice move in the first half saw the ball break to a rejuvenated Nick who shot firmly home. Vinny could have added a second if he'd rounded the keeper rather than taking a shot early but he made no mistake in a similar situation, rounding the keeper and blasting in from an inch. Gavin was back and showed what we'd missed in September and October, cespecially first half. He hardly got a pass in the second.
Second half saw them territorially superior and a couple of crap goals ensued. The first an unchallenged header from a corner at the far post followed by a freak 20 yard looping own goal from Chris- a ricochet off their man's foot ? Their wide man then wriggled beyond Gerry to square into the six yard box catching our defence off balance and it was rolled in for them to take a 3-2 lead.
Steve was coming into his own in this half. All the drama, wonderful. First he took a blasted ball smack up the hooter which felled him, but apart from a bruise , a bit of blood and no doubt a smidgeon of pain none of this was sufficient to count him out. Gavin who had decided to try his luck on the right burst forward on one of his nippy runs and ignoring an errant offside flag (their linesmen were partisan to say the least- indeed crap) raced into the box before being comprehensively flattened. An excellent referee, not being fooled by the latest hoisting of the jolly roger immediately awarded a penalty which Steve converted straight down the middle. 3-3.
It was left for Tony to bravely come between players to catch a cross during which he was flattened. Their conviction that no one touched him left one dubious when Tony emerged from a howl with a gash on his cheek the size of a fifty pence piece! Someone whether accidental or not must have touched him or was it self inflicted, elbowing himself in the cheekbone for a bit of sympathy. Spouting blood he continued for the last two minutes. Two minutes which were not to take place. Steve emerging with a ball from our penalty area was being enthusiastically harassed by their centre forward. Steve passed wide to Richard and his follow through 'inadvertently' caught matey in the knackers. Scream, curse, shove ended with Steve landing on him. Now if Steve wants to land on you the only option presumably is to adopt the brace position and hope to minimise any damage intended or otherwise. Several others piled in either to assist or warm themselves en masse from the biting cold wind I know not. The game resumed with the referee blowing the final whistle. Honours even. The referee did not see the incident so end of matter.
Gerry and Brendan had good games in full back positions, Nick had a storming first half and all in all we should have won if we'd been a bit more clinical first half. I could not see them coming back even from 2-0 at half time but they did.
Carpenters Arms- real ale pub- some lovely Harveys beer from Sussex. Steve showed his cuddly side by being inseparable from the pub dog, which was seemingly some sort of breed without a head. Narf took a liking to Steve's feet. He left before any real sexual overtures were made!
Next week a battle against aspiring champions Welwyn who actually lost to Sandridge yesterday. Come on you Knobs.
A nice move in the first half saw the ball break to a rejuvenated Nick who shot firmly home. Vinny could have added a second if he'd rounded the keeper rather than taking a shot early but he made no mistake in a similar situation, rounding the keeper and blasting in from an inch. Gavin was back and showed what we'd missed in September and October, cespecially first half. He hardly got a pass in the second.
Second half saw them territorially superior and a couple of crap goals ensued. The first an unchallenged header from a corner at the far post followed by a freak 20 yard looping own goal from Chris- a ricochet off their man's foot ? Their wide man then wriggled beyond Gerry to square into the six yard box catching our defence off balance and it was rolled in for them to take a 3-2 lead.
Steve was coming into his own in this half. All the drama, wonderful. First he took a blasted ball smack up the hooter which felled him, but apart from a bruise , a bit of blood and no doubt a smidgeon of pain none of this was sufficient to count him out. Gavin who had decided to try his luck on the right burst forward on one of his nippy runs and ignoring an errant offside flag (their linesmen were partisan to say the least- indeed crap) raced into the box before being comprehensively flattened. An excellent referee, not being fooled by the latest hoisting of the jolly roger immediately awarded a penalty which Steve converted straight down the middle. 3-3.
It was left for Tony to bravely come between players to catch a cross during which he was flattened. Their conviction that no one touched him left one dubious when Tony emerged from a howl with a gash on his cheek the size of a fifty pence piece! Someone whether accidental or not must have touched him or was it self inflicted, elbowing himself in the cheekbone for a bit of sympathy. Spouting blood he continued for the last two minutes. Two minutes which were not to take place. Steve emerging with a ball from our penalty area was being enthusiastically harassed by their centre forward. Steve passed wide to Richard and his follow through 'inadvertently' caught matey in the knackers. Scream, curse, shove ended with Steve landing on him. Now if Steve wants to land on you the only option presumably is to adopt the brace position and hope to minimise any damage intended or otherwise. Several others piled in either to assist or warm themselves en masse from the biting cold wind I know not. The game resumed with the referee blowing the final whistle. Honours even. The referee did not see the incident so end of matter.
Gerry and Brendan had good games in full back positions, Nick had a storming first half and all in all we should have won if we'd been a bit more clinical first half. I could not see them coming back even from 2-0 at half time but they did.
Carpenters Arms- real ale pub- some lovely Harveys beer from Sussex. Steve showed his cuddly side by being inseparable from the pub dog, which was seemingly some sort of breed without a head. Narf took a liking to Steve's feet. He left before any real sexual overtures were made!
Next week a battle against aspiring champions Welwyn who actually lost to Sandridge yesterday. Come on you Knobs.
Monday 28 October 2013
MBDA 5 Knobs 1
By gad twas a fierce, windy morning. Made controlled football difficult but they seemed to manage it on occasions. A poor response to the call to arms led to us having a bare eleven with even yours truly having to join the fray for a full game. I now know I'm permanently injured. We are in a league and we have several friendlies as well but there does not seem to be any particular interest in the nuances of this setup. Current personnel are just happy to play a few games here and there whether league or friendly. Fair enough sometimes we'll get a nice little win if the personnel available give us some strength and other times, this season more often than not, we will turn out and get a beating. Again, fair enough. Mind you one or two points of debate cease to be of any relevance in our set up. Eg. which is our best team, what is our best set up and how far did tactics in a game benefit us or let us down. Just accept we turn up on a hope, wing and prayer that we have at least 11 players and players still young enough to know which boot goes on which foot.
They gained a 2-0 lead thanks to two controlled shots from the man Paine yet the floodgates did not open. Indeed we started to control the rest of the first half and were a tad unlucky to go in half time trailing only 2-1. Steve ended a constructive move by driving home into the corner albeit assisted slightly by a goalkeeping fumble.
Second half some of us claimed to be on the wrong end of linesman Chris Cox's flag. Ouch! Two goals resulted. I thought from my faraway vantage point that we were repeatedly caught far too square on several occasions from which their three second half goals resulted. They eased off and we were bereft of ideas going forward and all in all bereft of any forward play by the end, though Gerry went close to scoring.
Royal Oak, half a dozen in attendance, two wakes in a week, followed by Newcastle losing spinelessly to the Makkems in an awful game.
Happy Diwali!
They gained a 2-0 lead thanks to two controlled shots from the man Paine yet the floodgates did not open. Indeed we started to control the rest of the first half and were a tad unlucky to go in half time trailing only 2-1. Steve ended a constructive move by driving home into the corner albeit assisted slightly by a goalkeeping fumble.
Second half some of us claimed to be on the wrong end of linesman Chris Cox's flag. Ouch! Two goals resulted. I thought from my faraway vantage point that we were repeatedly caught far too square on several occasions from which their three second half goals resulted. They eased off and we were bereft of ideas going forward and all in all bereft of any forward play by the end, though Gerry went close to scoring.
Royal Oak, half a dozen in attendance, two wakes in a week, followed by Newcastle losing spinelessly to the Makkems in an awful game.
Happy Diwali!
Monday 21 October 2013
Therfield 2 Knobs 1
This game saw the managerial debut for the Knobs of our 4th choice manager Darren.
He was keen to make an impression which started by trying to leave the Station promptly to arrive on time. The Chairman likes to arrive early to get his warm up in. Having left the Station on time we almost left John Twig behind which meant he had to flag down Chairman Al as we set off down the hill.
The managerial performance can only be likened to that of Paulo DiCanio. Within 2 minutes of arriving, Darren lost the changing room. It was not so much the starting line-up that caused the rift but the fact that Darren had pre planned the substitutions if everyone turned up and things were going well. So, Bully shouted at Darren, Darren ignored Bully, Chairman Al defended Darren, Bully argued with Chairman Al, Chairman Al argued with Tony, Tony shouted at Chairman Al. The result of all this though was a post match man hug from Al to Bully. Bully then requested a box of chocolates just like Brendan got last season. Could this be the start of a beautiful romance?
On the pitch things didn't go that well either. Already without 3 strikers due to awaymatchitis, Joel who scored on his last outing and was due to lead the line pulled out on the morning of the match. No surprise then that we struggled to hold onto the ball in the oppositions half.
We did have the majority of the possession in the first half and at 20 minutes in we had got in behind the Arseholes back 4 many times but lacked the final pass or accurate shot. At this point we lost big Rob to a groin injury. Rob had the key role of marking Squiffy, Aresholes main man. Brendan strode on play left back, twiggy moved in to midfield. Then further injury struck as the returning Martin bruised his knee and he hobbled off, meaning Tony K could put the linesman flag down he was using to keep the sun out of his eyes. (yes, he really did pick up the flag for a few minutes - early shout for Clubman!)
Despite the one way traffic the Ref saw fit to allow an Arsehole centre forward to shoulder barge Chris off the ball in the middle of the shoulder blades and whilst Chris picked himself up and we all shouted for the foul, the forward tucked the ball away and despite a lot of complaints the goal stood. Shocking!
The Knobs pressure finally told though when one of the many corners was nodded in by an Arsehole centre back. Richard claimed the assist as the ball brushed one of his hairs before the header.
Just before halftime Twiggy shocked the team by calling the ref a very unpleasant word. His frustration of nearly being left behind clearly still angering him.
A rousing halftime talk by Tony K had the team going back out full of confidence. Unfortunately our play did not match the speech. We defended well and Tony did not really have to make any saves. When we got the ball down and played (not often enough) we played some neat football which continued to get us in behind. Gerry roasted the man mountain at full back many times, the sight of the full backs belly hanging below his shirt not affecting Gerry's concentration.
Brendan was clearly bored though and decided to catch the ball in our penalty box. Good Tony clearly intimidated the taker though and the ball was rolled 2 yards wide.
The game continued in the same vain but alas, a loose ball played out of defence didn't reach our midfield, was intercepted and easily dispatched into our goal.
Game over. Rubbish.
Off to the pub for giant sausage rolls and half cooked chips.
The manager was sacked then asked to take the position of social secretary.
He was keen to make an impression which started by trying to leave the Station promptly to arrive on time. The Chairman likes to arrive early to get his warm up in. Having left the Station on time we almost left John Twig behind which meant he had to flag down Chairman Al as we set off down the hill.
The managerial performance can only be likened to that of Paulo DiCanio. Within 2 minutes of arriving, Darren lost the changing room. It was not so much the starting line-up that caused the rift but the fact that Darren had pre planned the substitutions if everyone turned up and things were going well. So, Bully shouted at Darren, Darren ignored Bully, Chairman Al defended Darren, Bully argued with Chairman Al, Chairman Al argued with Tony, Tony shouted at Chairman Al. The result of all this though was a post match man hug from Al to Bully. Bully then requested a box of chocolates just like Brendan got last season. Could this be the start of a beautiful romance?
On the pitch things didn't go that well either. Already without 3 strikers due to awaymatchitis, Joel who scored on his last outing and was due to lead the line pulled out on the morning of the match. No surprise then that we struggled to hold onto the ball in the oppositions half.
We did have the majority of the possession in the first half and at 20 minutes in we had got in behind the Arseholes back 4 many times but lacked the final pass or accurate shot. At this point we lost big Rob to a groin injury. Rob had the key role of marking Squiffy, Aresholes main man. Brendan strode on play left back, twiggy moved in to midfield. Then further injury struck as the returning Martin bruised his knee and he hobbled off, meaning Tony K could put the linesman flag down he was using to keep the sun out of his eyes. (yes, he really did pick up the flag for a few minutes - early shout for Clubman!)
Despite the one way traffic the Ref saw fit to allow an Arsehole centre forward to shoulder barge Chris off the ball in the middle of the shoulder blades and whilst Chris picked himself up and we all shouted for the foul, the forward tucked the ball away and despite a lot of complaints the goal stood. Shocking!
The Knobs pressure finally told though when one of the many corners was nodded in by an Arsehole centre back. Richard claimed the assist as the ball brushed one of his hairs before the header.
Just before halftime Twiggy shocked the team by calling the ref a very unpleasant word. His frustration of nearly being left behind clearly still angering him.
A rousing halftime talk by Tony K had the team going back out full of confidence. Unfortunately our play did not match the speech. We defended well and Tony did not really have to make any saves. When we got the ball down and played (not often enough) we played some neat football which continued to get us in behind. Gerry roasted the man mountain at full back many times, the sight of the full backs belly hanging below his shirt not affecting Gerry's concentration.
Brendan was clearly bored though and decided to catch the ball in our penalty box. Good Tony clearly intimidated the taker though and the ball was rolled 2 yards wide.
The game continued in the same vain but alas, a loose ball played out of defence didn't reach our midfield, was intercepted and easily dispatched into our goal.
Game over. Rubbish.
Off to the pub for giant sausage rolls and half cooked chips.
The manager was sacked then asked to take the position of social secretary.
Tuesday 8 October 2013
Walkern 4 Knobs 2
Hot day, pleasant, slow tempo game, right result.
Goals from Joel, end of a good move and Darren, a flier creeps in under the bar.
Warm in pub glowingly reminiscing the 60's. Sums it up tersely.
Bye.
Goals from Joel, end of a good move and Darren, a flier creeps in under the bar.
Warm in pub glowingly reminiscing the 60's. Sums it up tersely.
Bye.
Sunday 29 September 2013
Knobs 4 Goldings 0
Shortest match report ever to match lowest comments ever, last week. I'm rushing off north but before I do well done to the chaps today , an excellent performance (perhaps we ought to have scored more ) and no there's nothing wrong with my eyesight. I've had a good few chuckles in reminiscing about the game- despair at the condition of some Homo not very sapiens, the planet must have better options as custodians otherwise wiv nae fookin chance!
Incredible!
Woody notched another couple, did you see the pullback on him, incredible. Why didn't yiz aal moan an caal the perpetrator a fookin cunt. Both nice and tidy and paying dividends for speed of thought and foot.
Steve scored a lovely placed shot at the end of an exciting move and John Boyle latching onto a loose ball thrashed home a smashing first timer. Incredible.
Chris Wilson and James were simple towers at the back reining in the young bustler with aplomb. Class!
Alistair and Twiggy , superb full back displays and always helped in going forwards- Alistair long diagonal centre to Woody found him wanting for once and a Twiggy advance and cross to far post inexplicably headed wide by the towering Vinnie. Incredible.
Excellent wide play from Nick and Mr Boyle as industrious in helping out defensively as they were imaginative going forward. John looked very sprightly or was it a touch of whippets and carthorses? Was he saying here bonny lad hev a carrot then nipping past- a really enjoyed watching.
Nick soldiered on injured until giving way 5 minutes to go . Well done.
Darren in the middle was everywhere, intercepting loads and tackling successfully on many occasions. He didn't show at the pub, presumably went home for some form of transplant.
You were individually and as a team simply to good for them. Perhaps you were concentrating on the purpose of the game better than them. They seemed to be more concerned with haranguing the poor old.............. Incredible!
Tony had very little to do- one blinding save, tipped over but he was very active in the encouragement and distribution departments. Vital.
Am away north noo so hev a nice week bonny lads and yiz soon.
Mr Magoo.
Incredible!
Woody notched another couple, did you see the pullback on him, incredible. Why didn't yiz aal moan an caal the perpetrator a fookin cunt. Both nice and tidy and paying dividends for speed of thought and foot.
Steve scored a lovely placed shot at the end of an exciting move and John Boyle latching onto a loose ball thrashed home a smashing first timer. Incredible.
Chris Wilson and James were simple towers at the back reining in the young bustler with aplomb. Class!
Alistair and Twiggy , superb full back displays and always helped in going forwards- Alistair long diagonal centre to Woody found him wanting for once and a Twiggy advance and cross to far post inexplicably headed wide by the towering Vinnie. Incredible.
Excellent wide play from Nick and Mr Boyle as industrious in helping out defensively as they were imaginative going forward. John looked very sprightly or was it a touch of whippets and carthorses? Was he saying here bonny lad hev a carrot then nipping past- a really enjoyed watching.
Nick soldiered on injured until giving way 5 minutes to go . Well done.
Darren in the middle was everywhere, intercepting loads and tackling successfully on many occasions. He didn't show at the pub, presumably went home for some form of transplant.
You were individually and as a team simply to good for them. Perhaps you were concentrating on the purpose of the game better than them. They seemed to be more concerned with haranguing the poor old.............. Incredible!
Tony had very little to do- one blinding save, tipped over but he was very active in the encouragement and distribution departments. Vital.
Am away north noo so hev a nice week bonny lads and yiz soon.
Mr Magoo.
Monday 23 September 2013
Old Owens 4 Knobs 3
Flat, slick pitch , lovely grass, dew covered and a competitive, trouble free game.
We defended well and in numbers, we had to because they were playing some inventive, on the deck football. Despite our getting stuck in they were still able to breach us on several occasions first half when without the courage and sheer speed of reactions of keeper Tony they would have been out of sight by the break. As it was they briefly led from a comical, pinball routine that drifted over the line. But after a Vinnie drive crashed the bar we equalised through Woody, a busy, bustling presence up front. He looked a tad offside but a good referee played on and he rounded their keeper before netting under pressure. 1-1 half time.
They were still purring forward and looked dangerous at all times, yet resolute defence in numbers saw us holding our own until they took the lead from an exquisite, individual goal clipped in from an angle. There followed a penalty from which they scored, after Chris W wiped out their man in a penalty area which seemed marked out to cover half the pitch! Minutes later their chance to make it 4 was postponed when a subtle barge in the back by John prevented their bloke heading in. The subsequent penalty, same player, same place made it 4.
A fight back ensued. Woody chested down a ball on half way and burst clear, again rounding their giant keeper to repeat his first. A Vinnie bicycle kick was blocked and he volleyed the rebound home from a prone position. 4-3. Perhaps we should all emulate the Vinnie style we could be world champs at playing from the flat on the back position.
We looked more threatening for the last 10 minutes but the reward for effort was nothing.
They were a good side and we contained them pretty well but the downside was that we could not summon the extra energy to get forward and support the forwards Woody and Vinnie who were always too isolated and reliant on their own individual efforts. Get fitter chaps, this is the Premier League. Cough, splutter!
We defended well and in numbers, we had to because they were playing some inventive, on the deck football. Despite our getting stuck in they were still able to breach us on several occasions first half when without the courage and sheer speed of reactions of keeper Tony they would have been out of sight by the break. As it was they briefly led from a comical, pinball routine that drifted over the line. But after a Vinnie drive crashed the bar we equalised through Woody, a busy, bustling presence up front. He looked a tad offside but a good referee played on and he rounded their keeper before netting under pressure. 1-1 half time.
They were still purring forward and looked dangerous at all times, yet resolute defence in numbers saw us holding our own until they took the lead from an exquisite, individual goal clipped in from an angle. There followed a penalty from which they scored, after Chris W wiped out their man in a penalty area which seemed marked out to cover half the pitch! Minutes later their chance to make it 4 was postponed when a subtle barge in the back by John prevented their bloke heading in. The subsequent penalty, same player, same place made it 4.
A fight back ensued. Woody chested down a ball on half way and burst clear, again rounding their giant keeper to repeat his first. A Vinnie bicycle kick was blocked and he volleyed the rebound home from a prone position. 4-3. Perhaps we should all emulate the Vinnie style we could be world champs at playing from the flat on the back position.
We looked more threatening for the last 10 minutes but the reward for effort was nothing.
They were a good side and we contained them pretty well but the downside was that we could not summon the extra energy to get forward and support the forwards Woody and Vinnie who were always too isolated and reliant on their own individual efforts. Get fitter chaps, this is the Premier League. Cough, splutter!
Monday 16 September 2013
Knobs 2 Saints 0
Saints turned up at their pitch, we turned up at ours! They were wrong, we were right so a home league win, clean sheet for Coco with his new gloves and 3 points to the Knobs.
Homebeads man of the match?
Homebeads man of the match?
Monday 9 September 2013
Buntingford "big ears" 2 Knobs 1
The game that nearly never was.
By Friday lunchtime we were desperately short of numbers and temporary manager Dave decided to call the game off. However, after a short enquiry by club officials it turned out that Dave's texts reached fewer people than he had hoped and we in fact had plenty of players after all.
Not only did we have enough, we had 4 new players. This gave Dave an insight into what it is like being AVB and suddenly having to fit lots of new players into an existing team and making the gel quickly.
This was not just a challenge for Dave but also the team. It's easy remembering the name of 1 new player, but 4 is tricky, especially when 2 of them are tall and look similar. To prove this point, Joel asked after the game which one was Stuart! This may also explain why there was a lack of calling throughout the game.
To add to the confusion for the season, we now have 2 Tonys, 2 Alastairs, 2 Martins, 2 Brendans, 2 Darrens, 2 Johns and 2 Seans.
There was an enthusiastic mood at the station car park pre match until the chairman decided to demand £20 from everyone and a completed form before we left for the game. Admin completed and mood sobered, we set off only 15 minutes late.
There was disappointment at the sight of the old black kit arriving on a surprisingly hot and sunny morning. This was quickly forgotten though as volunteer Goalkeeper for the season, Tony realised that he had forgotten to purchase his new Goalie gloves from Sports Direct. After a few practice saves and cries of pain with his bare hands he managed to find a pair of black rubber gloves in someones car boot. Fortunately he didn't have too much to do apart from sweat into them.
We lined up in our successful 4-5-1 formation, with Richard given the tough task of playing up top on his own. Both Brendans started, one at left back and one in midfield. Big James slotted in along side Tony K.
The knobs started very strongly and dominated possession creating lots of half chances and breaks in behind the oppos defence. We earned a number of early corners, one of which cost us the opening goal. Although we were the better team technically we were not in terms of fitness. Buntingford cleared our corner and broke quickly with numbers. Having a spare man in the break allowed them to get a shot away which looked to be going wide before Alastair diverted the ball into our goal past the rubber gloved Tony.
The Knobs kept battling though and shortly after we won another free kick in the oppos half. A reluctant James was ordered forward and a beauty of a free kick curled in by Bully was nodded straight in the new man. James won many headers in this game and we look to have found an alternative to Vinny's head at corners and free kicks.
Dave then brought on new boys Martyn and Rob for their debuts to take a look at too, slotting them into the middle with Bully. As Spurs found against the Woolwich wanderers last week, you can be the best team, dominate possession, chances and corners but when trying to incorporate new players you can get caught out. And so it proved with us as an unmarked runner through the middle got on the end of a cross to nod home uncontested.
That was the end of the goals for the game. A few more player and positional changes in the 2nd half, but our lack of fitness limited our chances and meant a more even share of the ball. Tony only had a couple of things to deal with in goal including a suspected broken rib and broken hand from punching the pitch, there keeper probably dozed off from boredom.
Other things of note were Joel taking the John Boyle role of squaring up to one of the opposition and Tony K getting an early entry into this season's "opposition player put down of the year award" with the classic "shut up, big ears!"
Nearly all of us headed for the clubhouse for sausages, French sticks and chips, looking forward to the game next week at home to Saints. There was speculation that the squad would be enhanced by our "only play at home" players and Ron would also be back at the helm.
Ps. Bully has a great deal for you on a new pair of adidas boots. Whatever size feet you are, they will fit you, honest. Please see bully for details.
By Friday lunchtime we were desperately short of numbers and temporary manager Dave decided to call the game off. However, after a short enquiry by club officials it turned out that Dave's texts reached fewer people than he had hoped and we in fact had plenty of players after all.
Not only did we have enough, we had 4 new players. This gave Dave an insight into what it is like being AVB and suddenly having to fit lots of new players into an existing team and making the gel quickly.
This was not just a challenge for Dave but also the team. It's easy remembering the name of 1 new player, but 4 is tricky, especially when 2 of them are tall and look similar. To prove this point, Joel asked after the game which one was Stuart! This may also explain why there was a lack of calling throughout the game.
To add to the confusion for the season, we now have 2 Tonys, 2 Alastairs, 2 Martins, 2 Brendans, 2 Darrens, 2 Johns and 2 Seans.
There was an enthusiastic mood at the station car park pre match until the chairman decided to demand £20 from everyone and a completed form before we left for the game. Admin completed and mood sobered, we set off only 15 minutes late.
There was disappointment at the sight of the old black kit arriving on a surprisingly hot and sunny morning. This was quickly forgotten though as volunteer Goalkeeper for the season, Tony realised that he had forgotten to purchase his new Goalie gloves from Sports Direct. After a few practice saves and cries of pain with his bare hands he managed to find a pair of black rubber gloves in someones car boot. Fortunately he didn't have too much to do apart from sweat into them.
We lined up in our successful 4-5-1 formation, with Richard given the tough task of playing up top on his own. Both Brendans started, one at left back and one in midfield. Big James slotted in along side Tony K.
The knobs started very strongly and dominated possession creating lots of half chances and breaks in behind the oppos defence. We earned a number of early corners, one of which cost us the opening goal. Although we were the better team technically we were not in terms of fitness. Buntingford cleared our corner and broke quickly with numbers. Having a spare man in the break allowed them to get a shot away which looked to be going wide before Alastair diverted the ball into our goal past the rubber gloved Tony.
The Knobs kept battling though and shortly after we won another free kick in the oppos half. A reluctant James was ordered forward and a beauty of a free kick curled in by Bully was nodded straight in the new man. James won many headers in this game and we look to have found an alternative to Vinny's head at corners and free kicks.
Dave then brought on new boys Martyn and Rob for their debuts to take a look at too, slotting them into the middle with Bully. As Spurs found against the Woolwich wanderers last week, you can be the best team, dominate possession, chances and corners but when trying to incorporate new players you can get caught out. And so it proved with us as an unmarked runner through the middle got on the end of a cross to nod home uncontested.
That was the end of the goals for the game. A few more player and positional changes in the 2nd half, but our lack of fitness limited our chances and meant a more even share of the ball. Tony only had a couple of things to deal with in goal including a suspected broken rib and broken hand from punching the pitch, there keeper probably dozed off from boredom.
Other things of note were Joel taking the John Boyle role of squaring up to one of the opposition and Tony K getting an early entry into this season's "opposition player put down of the year award" with the classic "shut up, big ears!"
Nearly all of us headed for the clubhouse for sausages, French sticks and chips, looking forward to the game next week at home to Saints. There was speculation that the squad would be enhanced by our "only play at home" players and Ron would also be back at the helm.
Ps. Bully has a great deal for you on a new pair of adidas boots. Whatever size feet you are, they will fit you, honest. Please see bully for details.
Monday 20 May 2013
The last blog? Knobs 7 Blunham 1
Final game of season and an emphatic win against a tiring Blunham. Moribund or will they come again?
Les, qualified referee from MBDA, kindly took the whistle for this historically contentious fixture. The game once again proved the last thing that goes in a footballer's artillery is his mouth, unfortunately rarely attached to those parts of the brain governing rationality and pleasantness. Still noone died and everyone enjoyed a pint afterwards as should happen.
Bare 11 plus Ron for his final game turned out for Knobs on a warm morning. A competitive first half when Blunham were at their best and their fittest. Knobs took the lead when a Bully corner was fluffed by the keeper, the ball dropping from his 'grip' onto the goalline where it was smashed in by Joel.
They equalised from a cross from the left, too easily done, no challenge, to the far post where despite Twiggy's little ankle tap their Joe Paloney gathered well and finished with aplomb. After that my memory let's me down in scoring sequence and player involvement in all the goals.Did we take a half time lead through Vinnie. Well me must have taken a lead else we wouldn't have won 7-1 or even won at all! There was an altercation between Trevor and their muscular forward over the failure of Blunham to stop the game when Tony took one and was hopping round like a demented penguin. Play on had been the correct decision there was little dangerously the matter with him. Another bone of contention was an offside with their man haring after a ball from an offside position with them claiming another play out of the picture wasn't offside. No brainer. Linesman and referee completely correct offside, free kick.
Second half kicking uphill saw the floodgates open. Goals, misses and saves galore. Joel completed a hattrick, a true vet now. Vinnie got 2, a tasty performance and Alistair's best cross of the season- it managed to stay in play, fell into the net at the far post. Always a chance of something happening with the ball in play.
Bully must have made at least 4 as well as striking the bar with a free kick. He kicked off the line and followed it up by clearing his lines. He is fitter, which he knows, and as I pointed out to a few, covers an awful lot of pitch during contests, albeit with a somewhat leisurely gait. Well done. Indeed well done to everyone including the returning, reliable Chris Griffiths. We played 1-4-5-1 and looked very compact. Ron had a 10 minute cameo where his pass rate was 100%, nothing unusual there, choke, splutter.... including an assist to the assister of the sixth goal. John Boyle had a flying second half, wide, right midfield, such versatility.
Goodbye. We will be in the Vets Premier League next season, should you vote to stay in the league at out forthcoming AGM, the Station on June 23rd.
Les, qualified referee from MBDA, kindly took the whistle for this historically contentious fixture. The game once again proved the last thing that goes in a footballer's artillery is his mouth, unfortunately rarely attached to those parts of the brain governing rationality and pleasantness. Still noone died and everyone enjoyed a pint afterwards as should happen.
Bare 11 plus Ron for his final game turned out for Knobs on a warm morning. A competitive first half when Blunham were at their best and their fittest. Knobs took the lead when a Bully corner was fluffed by the keeper, the ball dropping from his 'grip' onto the goalline where it was smashed in by Joel.
They equalised from a cross from the left, too easily done, no challenge, to the far post where despite Twiggy's little ankle tap their Joe Paloney gathered well and finished with aplomb. After that my memory let's me down in scoring sequence and player involvement in all the goals.Did we take a half time lead through Vinnie. Well me must have taken a lead else we wouldn't have won 7-1 or even won at all! There was an altercation between Trevor and their muscular forward over the failure of Blunham to stop the game when Tony took one and was hopping round like a demented penguin. Play on had been the correct decision there was little dangerously the matter with him. Another bone of contention was an offside with their man haring after a ball from an offside position with them claiming another play out of the picture wasn't offside. No brainer. Linesman and referee completely correct offside, free kick.
Second half kicking uphill saw the floodgates open. Goals, misses and saves galore. Joel completed a hattrick, a true vet now. Vinnie got 2, a tasty performance and Alistair's best cross of the season- it managed to stay in play, fell into the net at the far post. Always a chance of something happening with the ball in play.
Bully must have made at least 4 as well as striking the bar with a free kick. He kicked off the line and followed it up by clearing his lines. He is fitter, which he knows, and as I pointed out to a few, covers an awful lot of pitch during contests, albeit with a somewhat leisurely gait. Well done. Indeed well done to everyone including the returning, reliable Chris Griffiths. We played 1-4-5-1 and looked very compact. Ron had a 10 minute cameo where his pass rate was 100%, nothing unusual there, choke, splutter.... including an assist to the assister of the sixth goal. John Boyle had a flying second half, wide, right midfield, such versatility.
Goodbye. We will be in the Vets Premier League next season, should you vote to stay in the league at out forthcoming AGM, the Station on June 23rd.
Thursday 16 May 2013
Sandridge Rovers 2 Knobs 0, Knobs 4 Sandridge Rovers 1
A beautiful sunny evening saw us play a bit rubbish in this game. It was disappointing. They played better football, had a couple of good players (especially there centre forward) and we didn’t cope very well. They scored one from a corner and one from a ball over the top but I can’t remember which game had what. I do know that this was the game that saw the dubious penalty awarded by our ‘Sportsman of the Year’ Twiggy, from the sidelines, after consultation with Ron the Referee. The fact that the ball had already gone out for a goal kick didn’t seem to matter…or that’s what all our defence said. It didn’t really matter though as we created few chances despite a putting a strong team out and we didn’t deserve to win.
For the second game there were wholesale changes with Chris Griffiths making a welcome return at the back. We finally scored a goal, thanks to Richard poaching in the box but they pegged us back to make it 1-1. In the second half we changed the formation to 4-5-1 with Vinny coming on and it seemed to make a big difference. Suddenly the game was stretched across the park, there was more space and we looked an attacking force again. Vinny netted two, his first one a peach of a goal, well hit past the keeper and his second, a tap-in after a cross from Gavin. In the latter stages, with more options, Bully and Nick were putting some lovely through balls in and we were unlucky not to score more, especially Phil who hit the cross bar after Vinny unselfishly passed it to him despite being on a hat-trick. Gavin scored the last goal after beating the offside trap and that was that.
Well done to all those involved, especially to those who were subbed on or off and didn’t complain. There were some good performances, especially in the second game and it is important to think about formations and what might work as we’re playing games. With Vinny playing, the 4-5-1 formation seems a good one, especially as it gives us extra re-enforcements in the middle of the park, whilst giving us attacking options out wide. Something to ponder for next season perhaps but as is always the case, you’ve got to play horses for courses.
It was fun down the pub. John B said so as he collected the loot. Lots of good humour and Darren A seemed to suggest that there was some sort of succession talk between Gerry and Chairman Al but I couldn’t possibly comment. Next up is Blunham on Sunday. Good luck and no fighting!
For the second game there were wholesale changes with Chris Griffiths making a welcome return at the back. We finally scored a goal, thanks to Richard poaching in the box but they pegged us back to make it 1-1. In the second half we changed the formation to 4-5-1 with Vinny coming on and it seemed to make a big difference. Suddenly the game was stretched across the park, there was more space and we looked an attacking force again. Vinny netted two, his first one a peach of a goal, well hit past the keeper and his second, a tap-in after a cross from Gavin. In the latter stages, with more options, Bully and Nick were putting some lovely through balls in and we were unlucky not to score more, especially Phil who hit the cross bar after Vinny unselfishly passed it to him despite being on a hat-trick. Gavin scored the last goal after beating the offside trap and that was that.
Well done to all those involved, especially to those who were subbed on or off and didn’t complain. There were some good performances, especially in the second game and it is important to think about formations and what might work as we’re playing games. With Vinny playing, the 4-5-1 formation seems a good one, especially as it gives us extra re-enforcements in the middle of the park, whilst giving us attacking options out wide. Something to ponder for next season perhaps but as is always the case, you’ve got to play horses for courses.
It was fun down the pub. John B said so as he collected the loot. Lots of good humour and Darren A seemed to suggest that there was some sort of succession talk between Gerry and Chairman Al but I couldn’t possibly comment. Next up is Blunham on Sunday. Good luck and no fighting!
Monday 13 May 2013
Knobs 1 Goldcheats 2.
Goldkhaki deserved their win. Not so the shite that emerges from their hideous gobs.
Full back -it wasn't a penalty.
Referee- You pushed him, penalty.
FB- I fuckin didnt, yi cheatin cunt.
Referee- oh in that case it's a goalkick to you old chap.
New rules, referee spins the coin, announces heads or tails, a bit of ritual if you like, blows the whistle from time to time for a bit of reality if you like but as soon as one of the players, be it the boot, the iron or the ship disagrees the referee sends himself to jail and collects fuck all if he passes Go. (I told you I was ill).
Our attacks were sporadic and powder puff the few chances we made we missed. Their goalkeeper was more than capable. And he was a true vet. In age, in manners (one of three to proffer a handshake at the end) and he was one of three of them to show at the Station for a drink.
Their centre forward proved muscular as ever, well he's at his prime now he's reached 31. In 4 years he'll come of age and gently wither into decrepitude. Hope his big mouth goes the same way. Playing with old guys like us who have served their time in proper football- he's pathetic. Mind you playing with Vets for so long has physically aged him and he seems to be somewhat tonsorially challenged. Must be catching.
This grapes splurging is not because we lost, perusal of the records show we inevitably beat this lot year in year out. But I've been playing against this lad since he was 21, hmmm I was 57 then.... fair match don't you know. Yes quite pathetic. Mind you things can swing both ways!
They could and should have scored a couple first half but din't and the half ended 0-0. The right winger was a bit of a speed merchant and was giving Twiggy's lungs and legs a working over without causing any real damage. How would Brendan fare taking over from JT second half. Well first Brendan was caught foraging in the centre forward spot..... our centre forward spot. That's one way to deal with a speedy winger, play somewhere else. Then to prove defensive duties were not beyond him he lay deep enough to play their bloke onside, a bloke on t'other side of pitch a mile offside otherwise. From this position he went on to score unopposed as our defence pleaded vainly for offside. Linesman John T , referee Ron C. No cheating there then. Brendan is rusty and is in post operative mood. I believe has to play in the middle where he can react and challenge. Tony you are now fullback when Brendan plays. Full back is not the old people's rest home a lot of folk seem to think it is. A certain amount of pre-dementia thinking is required in the position.
Elsewhere our passing was crap and rarely did anything like a fluid move appear imminent.
That is not to denigrate the effort. Almost everone got stuck in with some meaty challenges.
Anyway we equalised through the penalty. I suppose with the crowd baying for blood it was important that subsequent Knobs challenges didn't give the referee an excuse to 'redress' some perceived imbalance in proceedings. That was not to be, a kamikazi challenge by their forward was dealt with vigorously by Chris and a penalty was awarded to them from which they just managed to score. Was it a penalty? Probably not, but the pressure was on and the referee subconsciously took the easy way out.
My head was throbbing and my detestation of Homo sapiens knew little or no bounds. Apart from derisory and/or sarcastic remarks about added on time (4 minutes actually- pretty fair if not really enough) the game fizzled out unceremoniously. Knickers to the lorra yi.
The pub, the Station, was a mirth filled place, the Englishman's true place, not his castle. The 12th century writer Geoffrey de Vinsauf referred to "that drinker England" and that in the midst of Third Crusade battles "they kept up the Old English custom and opened their mouths wide with proper devotion to drain their goblets to the dregs." Not much has changed and he must have known the Station well- dregs begorra! Vinsauf- roughly translated that would be 'thirsty for wine'! What a people!
By the way did you know that the word 'ale' meant a party? brideale was a wedding party, scotale a debt paying party etc.. when by the way is the next Knobsale?
More on the quaint customs of ye English bastards next week.
Midweek game Wednesday then the end v Blunham at home on Sunday. So "wesheil kindly sirs and "dricheil" to me.
Full back -it wasn't a penalty.
Referee- You pushed him, penalty.
FB- I fuckin didnt, yi cheatin cunt.
Referee- oh in that case it's a goalkick to you old chap.
New rules, referee spins the coin, announces heads or tails, a bit of ritual if you like, blows the whistle from time to time for a bit of reality if you like but as soon as one of the players, be it the boot, the iron or the ship disagrees the referee sends himself to jail and collects fuck all if he passes Go. (I told you I was ill).
Our attacks were sporadic and powder puff the few chances we made we missed. Their goalkeeper was more than capable. And he was a true vet. In age, in manners (one of three to proffer a handshake at the end) and he was one of three of them to show at the Station for a drink.
Their centre forward proved muscular as ever, well he's at his prime now he's reached 31. In 4 years he'll come of age and gently wither into decrepitude. Hope his big mouth goes the same way. Playing with old guys like us who have served their time in proper football- he's pathetic. Mind you playing with Vets for so long has physically aged him and he seems to be somewhat tonsorially challenged. Must be catching.
This grapes splurging is not because we lost, perusal of the records show we inevitably beat this lot year in year out. But I've been playing against this lad since he was 21, hmmm I was 57 then.... fair match don't you know. Yes quite pathetic. Mind you things can swing both ways!
They could and should have scored a couple first half but din't and the half ended 0-0. The right winger was a bit of a speed merchant and was giving Twiggy's lungs and legs a working over without causing any real damage. How would Brendan fare taking over from JT second half. Well first Brendan was caught foraging in the centre forward spot..... our centre forward spot. That's one way to deal with a speedy winger, play somewhere else. Then to prove defensive duties were not beyond him he lay deep enough to play their bloke onside, a bloke on t'other side of pitch a mile offside otherwise. From this position he went on to score unopposed as our defence pleaded vainly for offside. Linesman John T , referee Ron C. No cheating there then. Brendan is rusty and is in post operative mood. I believe has to play in the middle where he can react and challenge. Tony you are now fullback when Brendan plays. Full back is not the old people's rest home a lot of folk seem to think it is. A certain amount of pre-dementia thinking is required in the position.
Elsewhere our passing was crap and rarely did anything like a fluid move appear imminent.
That is not to denigrate the effort. Almost everone got stuck in with some meaty challenges.
Anyway we equalised through the penalty. I suppose with the crowd baying for blood it was important that subsequent Knobs challenges didn't give the referee an excuse to 'redress' some perceived imbalance in proceedings. That was not to be, a kamikazi challenge by their forward was dealt with vigorously by Chris and a penalty was awarded to them from which they just managed to score. Was it a penalty? Probably not, but the pressure was on and the referee subconsciously took the easy way out.
My head was throbbing and my detestation of Homo sapiens knew little or no bounds. Apart from derisory and/or sarcastic remarks about added on time (4 minutes actually- pretty fair if not really enough) the game fizzled out unceremoniously. Knickers to the lorra yi.
The pub, the Station, was a mirth filled place, the Englishman's true place, not his castle. The 12th century writer Geoffrey de Vinsauf referred to "that drinker England" and that in the midst of Third Crusade battles "they kept up the Old English custom and opened their mouths wide with proper devotion to drain their goblets to the dregs." Not much has changed and he must have known the Station well- dregs begorra! Vinsauf- roughly translated that would be 'thirsty for wine'! What a people!
By the way did you know that the word 'ale' meant a party? brideale was a wedding party, scotale a debt paying party etc.. when by the way is the next Knobsale?
More on the quaint customs of ye English bastards next week.
Midweek game Wednesday then the end v Blunham at home on Sunday. So "wesheil kindly sirs and "dricheil" to me.
Sunday 5 May 2013
Knobs 1 Buntingford Town Vets 0
It was nearly 180 minutes without a goal between the two sides but a late penalty clinched a hard fought victory for the Knebworth Old Boys.
In beautiful sunshine, with a bare 11, the KNOBS started slowly and gave Buntingford the early initiative but they failed to capitalise thanks to some good defending. In fact despite the hot weather, the energy shown by the KNOBS team was impressive and this started from the front through the tireless running of Richard, who was well supported by Gerry on the right hand side. There were few chances…in fact, so few I can’t remember any in the first half. Oh…I forgot, Phil hit a beautiful shot that was easily gathered by their keeper but he did strike it well.
In the second half, both teams battled valiantly and it was dominated by both defences. Ian was particularly impressive clearing his lines and being strong and powerful in the air but the whole back four showed good defensive skills, with Darren B contributing well at left back, Tony showing his ball skills in the middle and John B doing both his defensive work, as well as helping Gerry where he could. Although they were dominating territorially, they created few chances, with the returning Trevor having few saves to make, although he did do a marvellous fisting job to clear a corner when we were under pressure.
Chris Wilson had our closest chance before the goal after being played through by Bully but he clipped the bar with a long range strike. The goal finally came with ten minutes to go when Richard was scythed down in the box. Even though their central defender didn’t agree with the decision, there was little complaint from their side which suggests it was a close call but probably the right decision. Bully tucked the penalty away with aplomb in the bottom left hand corner.
Vinny came on for a late cameo and although they huffed and puffed, looking for a goal, we actually looked livelier on the break but the game rather fizzled out in the end. A couple of moments to mention were Gerry’s marvellous heading technique that saw him collapse like Tommy Cooper at the Palladium and John B rampaging forward with a minute to go and being berated by Ian. We all had fun though, didn’t we?
We certainly did in the pub. Oh it’s good to be back at our spiritual home and there was much merriment. There was even a coup…sort of. Darren A is to blame. He’s a troublemaker that one. Thanks must go to our opponents today who were very supporting and it was good to seem all at the pub after the game.
Four games unbeaten, three wins on the bounce, two clean sheets amongst them…as they say on Masterchef - ‘Football doesn’t get better than this!’
In beautiful sunshine, with a bare 11, the KNOBS started slowly and gave Buntingford the early initiative but they failed to capitalise thanks to some good defending. In fact despite the hot weather, the energy shown by the KNOBS team was impressive and this started from the front through the tireless running of Richard, who was well supported by Gerry on the right hand side. There were few chances…in fact, so few I can’t remember any in the first half. Oh…I forgot, Phil hit a beautiful shot that was easily gathered by their keeper but he did strike it well.
In the second half, both teams battled valiantly and it was dominated by both defences. Ian was particularly impressive clearing his lines and being strong and powerful in the air but the whole back four showed good defensive skills, with Darren B contributing well at left back, Tony showing his ball skills in the middle and John B doing both his defensive work, as well as helping Gerry where he could. Although they were dominating territorially, they created few chances, with the returning Trevor having few saves to make, although he did do a marvellous fisting job to clear a corner when we were under pressure.
Chris Wilson had our closest chance before the goal after being played through by Bully but he clipped the bar with a long range strike. The goal finally came with ten minutes to go when Richard was scythed down in the box. Even though their central defender didn’t agree with the decision, there was little complaint from their side which suggests it was a close call but probably the right decision. Bully tucked the penalty away with aplomb in the bottom left hand corner.
Vinny came on for a late cameo and although they huffed and puffed, looking for a goal, we actually looked livelier on the break but the game rather fizzled out in the end. A couple of moments to mention were Gerry’s marvellous heading technique that saw him collapse like Tommy Cooper at the Palladium and John B rampaging forward with a minute to go and being berated by Ian. We all had fun though, didn’t we?
We certainly did in the pub. Oh it’s good to be back at our spiritual home and there was much merriment. There was even a coup…sort of. Darren A is to blame. He’s a troublemaker that one. Thanks must go to our opponents today who were very supporting and it was good to seem all at the pub after the game.
Four games unbeaten, three wins on the bounce, two clean sheets amongst them…as they say on Masterchef - ‘Football doesn’t get better than this!’
Monday 29 April 2013
Knobs 2 Walkern 1
Competitive, fairly good natured game apart from a couple of sweary spats.A deserved win on the grounds that their young keeper pulled off some blinding saves, especially a double save from powerful efforts by Vinnie. Mind our keeper, Tony, was the real McCoy once again, good saves, comfortable handling, commanding on crosses, the Knebworth Slapper, and verbally superb.
A lovely move early on was stopped on the goal line by an excellent last minute block on Vinnie.
Mind there were repeated worrying attacks down our left flank only nullified by stout defending of the several resulting crosses. A close first half ended 1-1. A soft penalty for a perceived push by Steve saw Walkern take the lead, though Tony nearly saved it. An equaliser resulted from the powerful and persistent Vinnie who slotted into the corner.
Second half got a bit more mouthy probably as energy fades the last place to lose momentum is the human gob. We attacked sporadically and were unfortunate not to go ahead , often the attacks were not well supported as the game became very stretched. At last the winner, from a goalmouth scramble, was slotted in by Gerry, who was among those having an excellent game.
A goodly crowd had assembled to watch this ancient local derby.
We failed to unearth the top posts, lack of a crane, we lost two balls up those pesky trees and adjourned once more to the Station our hereditary watering hole. A good turn out by both sides and lugholes were enjoyed once more.
Next week home to Buntingford.
Final games
May 12 home to Goldings- league
May 19 home to Blunham- league
May 26 home to Sandridge- league
A lovely move early on was stopped on the goal line by an excellent last minute block on Vinnie.
Mind there were repeated worrying attacks down our left flank only nullified by stout defending of the several resulting crosses. A close first half ended 1-1. A soft penalty for a perceived push by Steve saw Walkern take the lead, though Tony nearly saved it. An equaliser resulted from the powerful and persistent Vinnie who slotted into the corner.
Second half got a bit more mouthy probably as energy fades the last place to lose momentum is the human gob. We attacked sporadically and were unfortunate not to go ahead , often the attacks were not well supported as the game became very stretched. At last the winner, from a goalmouth scramble, was slotted in by Gerry, who was among those having an excellent game.
A goodly crowd had assembled to watch this ancient local derby.
We failed to unearth the top posts, lack of a crane, we lost two balls up those pesky trees and adjourned once more to the Station our hereditary watering hole. A good turn out by both sides and lugholes were enjoyed once more.
Next week home to Buntingford.
Final games
May 12 home to Goldings- league
May 19 home to Blunham- league
May 26 home to Sandridge- league
Monday 22 April 2013
Knobs 3 Saints 0
Sunny, spring morning and a very good natured game ended with a comfortable home victory.
Trevor fails to turn up leading to Tony once again playing a leading role between the posts. Competent, commanding and unbeatable. His kicking is another asset long missing from Knobs make up.
We had a bare 11 and fortunately noone was injured and everyone stuck to their task till the end.
Saints provided two subs as linesmen and Alistair promptly upset one of them by exhorting him to change his top. We disassociated ourselves from Alistair, the bloke put on another top and we got under way.
Early on saw Sean involved with two delicious passes to the left which came to naught. I suppose it was fairly warm so the game seemed stretched from the off. We looked very competitive at the back and they had few shots to trouble us. One shot was scambled off the line but that seemed it. Gavin was looking sharp going forward but by half time there had been no end product. 0-0 half time.
The stale mate lasted till with 20 minutes left Knobs were awarded a penalty. Gavin hurtled forward at pace leaving the full back for dead. A last ditch lunge from the back toppled poor Gav but Steve scored easily from the spot. Shortly afterwards came the 2nd and 3rd. Sean hit an inside the full back pass which few but Gavin would have had the pace to latch onto. Manfully keeping his balance he did all the hard work before nearly missing! He didn't, it crawled inside the post. 2-0.
The best came last. A punt from Tony, was headed on by Vinnie to galloping Gavin. He turned an early ball inside, on the ground, to a beseeching Bully who with only the keeper to beat met the ball with the outside of his foot and hit top corner from 30 plus yards. Sumptious, classy and cultured. And of course meant!
A number of us adjourned to the sunny yet wind chilled 'garden' of the Lytton for the last time this season. From now on we take to the Station and all that it promises!
Thanks to Brendan for doing a line second half. With the flag that is.
Trevor fails to turn up leading to Tony once again playing a leading role between the posts. Competent, commanding and unbeatable. His kicking is another asset long missing from Knobs make up.
We had a bare 11 and fortunately noone was injured and everyone stuck to their task till the end.
Saints provided two subs as linesmen and Alistair promptly upset one of them by exhorting him to change his top. We disassociated ourselves from Alistair, the bloke put on another top and we got under way.
Early on saw Sean involved with two delicious passes to the left which came to naught. I suppose it was fairly warm so the game seemed stretched from the off. We looked very competitive at the back and they had few shots to trouble us. One shot was scambled off the line but that seemed it. Gavin was looking sharp going forward but by half time there had been no end product. 0-0 half time.
The stale mate lasted till with 20 minutes left Knobs were awarded a penalty. Gavin hurtled forward at pace leaving the full back for dead. A last ditch lunge from the back toppled poor Gav but Steve scored easily from the spot. Shortly afterwards came the 2nd and 3rd. Sean hit an inside the full back pass which few but Gavin would have had the pace to latch onto. Manfully keeping his balance he did all the hard work before nearly missing! He didn't, it crawled inside the post. 2-0.
The best came last. A punt from Tony, was headed on by Vinnie to galloping Gavin. He turned an early ball inside, on the ground, to a beseeching Bully who with only the keeper to beat met the ball with the outside of his foot and hit top corner from 30 plus yards. Sumptious, classy and cultured. And of course meant!
A number of us adjourned to the sunny yet wind chilled 'garden' of the Lytton for the last time this season. From now on we take to the Station and all that it promises!
Thanks to Brendan for doing a line second half. With the flag that is.
Monday 15 April 2013
Knobs 3 Tesco Vets 3
On a lovely Sunday morning, a battle ensued. We knew from last time that it would be a physical battle and so it proved yet again but it was pleasing to see that we were up for the fight, led in exemplary fashion by Darren A – our captain of the day, who harassed and hurried the opposition throughout and was quite magnificent.
With a bare 11 and the MBDA guy as the referee, we started off the game in good spirits, mainly because the goals were up (I think). Unfortunately we soon found ourselves a goal down as woeful defending from Gavin saw a free-kick go over his head to the player he was supposedly marking and their man scuffed it into the back of the next with Good Tony just getting a hand on it but not preventing it from going in. After that it was quite an open game but one with few chances. We finally got a goal though when a through ball from Richard sent Gavin scampering on and his scuffed shot ended up with Vinny sweeping home. They believed it was offside and it might have been but it wasn’t as obvious as they suggested. They scored just before half-time with another shot nearly saved by Good Tony. Overall though we looked quite solid with Darren B making a return alongside Tony and Sean and John doing some good work as full-backs. Chris W was putting himself around in the middle of the park and Dave was huffing and puffing on the left hand side.
In the second half, a new guy turned up called Nick who came on in the middle of the park alongside Darren B and Chris W went to centre back. Nick looked a very useful player and talk in the changing room afterwards suggests we might see more of him in the future. He certainly got under the skin of the opposition and it could be argued that’s what changed the game after they went 3-1 up after a defensive error from Tony, who admittedly held his hands up straight away. We had chances throughout the game but didn’t look like we were going to get the rub of the green but after a punt from Tony (or John), the ball bounced and hit the bar and Richard headed in. Their keeper made some good saves and it looked like time was running out but after a lot of pressure, the ref gave a penalty for a handball in the box. It was no more than we deserved and Gavin calmly tucked the penalty away despite little faith from his team mates. Other notable moments included John Boyle hitting a lovely free kick that just went wide, Vinny having a wrestling match with their centre back that finished with a kiss, Good Tony showing himself again to be a very competent goalkeeper (sorry to say that) and like I said, Darren A having an absolute stormer in the middle. If everybody could muster that energy, we’d be world beaters. Unfortunately most of us can’t, hence our position in the league! So 3-3 seemed like a fair result although they were clearly unhappy. It was good that we kept going and going and going and a celebratory pint was well-deserved at The Station, led again by Darren A. and agreed by all.
Well done everyone…two battling performances in the past two weeks and hopefully we can keep those energy levels up for the remaining matches of the season. Drawers never quit, quitters never draw! Thatcher might say there is no such thing as society but the KNOBS are our own little society and we must believe in ourselves and the comrades alongside us, whoever that might be. U-turn if you want to but this club’s not for turning!
With a bare 11 and the MBDA guy as the referee, we started off the game in good spirits, mainly because the goals were up (I think). Unfortunately we soon found ourselves a goal down as woeful defending from Gavin saw a free-kick go over his head to the player he was supposedly marking and their man scuffed it into the back of the next with Good Tony just getting a hand on it but not preventing it from going in. After that it was quite an open game but one with few chances. We finally got a goal though when a through ball from Richard sent Gavin scampering on and his scuffed shot ended up with Vinny sweeping home. They believed it was offside and it might have been but it wasn’t as obvious as they suggested. They scored just before half-time with another shot nearly saved by Good Tony. Overall though we looked quite solid with Darren B making a return alongside Tony and Sean and John doing some good work as full-backs. Chris W was putting himself around in the middle of the park and Dave was huffing and puffing on the left hand side.
In the second half, a new guy turned up called Nick who came on in the middle of the park alongside Darren B and Chris W went to centre back. Nick looked a very useful player and talk in the changing room afterwards suggests we might see more of him in the future. He certainly got under the skin of the opposition and it could be argued that’s what changed the game after they went 3-1 up after a defensive error from Tony, who admittedly held his hands up straight away. We had chances throughout the game but didn’t look like we were going to get the rub of the green but after a punt from Tony (or John), the ball bounced and hit the bar and Richard headed in. Their keeper made some good saves and it looked like time was running out but after a lot of pressure, the ref gave a penalty for a handball in the box. It was no more than we deserved and Gavin calmly tucked the penalty away despite little faith from his team mates. Other notable moments included John Boyle hitting a lovely free kick that just went wide, Vinny having a wrestling match with their centre back that finished with a kiss, Good Tony showing himself again to be a very competent goalkeeper (sorry to say that) and like I said, Darren A having an absolute stormer in the middle. If everybody could muster that energy, we’d be world beaters. Unfortunately most of us can’t, hence our position in the league! So 3-3 seemed like a fair result although they were clearly unhappy. It was good that we kept going and going and going and a celebratory pint was well-deserved at The Station, led again by Darren A. and agreed by all.
Well done everyone…two battling performances in the past two weeks and hopefully we can keep those energy levels up for the remaining matches of the season. Drawers never quit, quitters never draw! Thatcher might say there is no such thing as society but the KNOBS are our own little society and we must believe in ourselves and the comrades alongside us, whoever that might be. U-turn if you want to but this club’s not for turning!
Monday 8 April 2013
Knobs 2 Welwyn Sports 4
Bit of a cock up with Joel and Jamie saying they were available with a post to Ian Lang, who they didn't know and then turning up on spec, turning 12 players to 14 and the difficulties that that causes in fitting everyone in and yet staying competitive.
Welwyn looked the part doing team exercises and jogging before the game. In fairness we do have to put the nets up but at least we don't just stand around smoking. We just stand around.
They got off to a brisk start smacking a belter of a goal from distance and pace which Tony Clare, making his first effort attempt at playing in goal never got a sniff of.
We looked dangerous from a corner and then should have equalised when a perfect, deep cross from Vinnie found Gavin three yards out at the far post, he failed to score. Possibly expected a clattering and took his eye off the ball. Having said that Gavin was a pain in their butt throughout the game, foraging with pace and always a cause for concern to their not too mobile defence. Another corner led to a scramble from which Gerry equalised from a close range melee. Very shortly afterwards we were awarded a penalty which was hotly disputed by their personnel. This was not unique, they disputed everything that didn't seem to go their way and continued to do so throughout. The bloke handled it, could easily have got his arm out the way, he didn't, so a penalty. Steve lashed in powerfully via the underside of the crossbar. 2-1 Shit hitting fan time. Knobs raised their game and were now fighting like tigers. Could and probably should have gone further ahead until half time intervened.
Problem with the subs needing to come on and yet noone deserved to go off in a highly competitive match. They used their subs tactically and didn't bring subs on till very late when they went 3-2 then 4-2 up.
Second half we were still competing hard and Tony was having an outstanding game in goal especially on high balls, punching and slapping out everything that came near him and was verbally calling and encouraging throughout. A save he made in the first half from a rocket heading top corner was world class. He flung himself high and left and one handedly extinguished the threat of their going into a 2 goal lead at that point.
Dave was on being Dave, he too was up for it! One memorable pass to the left wing should be what he concentrates on as he recuperates from the imminent surgeon's knife not his Thomas the Tank Engine approach.
They equalised with a soft penalty when the ball struck Roy's hand but the hand was held high. So I gave it. Silence prevailed, not one of them complained about that one and it was arguably more marginal than the one I gave earlier for Knobs. Why did noone come forward from the opposition and urge me to change my mind? Can't understand it. It must be something to do with the human condition!
They took a lead with helluva hard struck shot that swerved and contorted all over the place. Their 4th was very fortunate, a clearance ricochetting off their advancing player and squeezing inside the post.
That's how it stayed folks and at least it was a proper game.
Poor turnout at the pub and I was left with a pint surrounded by their whole team after our minimal contingent had fucked off. Thank God they'd won.
Welwyn looked the part doing team exercises and jogging before the game. In fairness we do have to put the nets up but at least we don't just stand around smoking. We just stand around.
They got off to a brisk start smacking a belter of a goal from distance and pace which Tony Clare, making his first effort attempt at playing in goal never got a sniff of.
We looked dangerous from a corner and then should have equalised when a perfect, deep cross from Vinnie found Gavin three yards out at the far post, he failed to score. Possibly expected a clattering and took his eye off the ball. Having said that Gavin was a pain in their butt throughout the game, foraging with pace and always a cause for concern to their not too mobile defence. Another corner led to a scramble from which Gerry equalised from a close range melee. Very shortly afterwards we were awarded a penalty which was hotly disputed by their personnel. This was not unique, they disputed everything that didn't seem to go their way and continued to do so throughout. The bloke handled it, could easily have got his arm out the way, he didn't, so a penalty. Steve lashed in powerfully via the underside of the crossbar. 2-1 Shit hitting fan time. Knobs raised their game and were now fighting like tigers. Could and probably should have gone further ahead until half time intervened.
Problem with the subs needing to come on and yet noone deserved to go off in a highly competitive match. They used their subs tactically and didn't bring subs on till very late when they went 3-2 then 4-2 up.
Second half we were still competing hard and Tony was having an outstanding game in goal especially on high balls, punching and slapping out everything that came near him and was verbally calling and encouraging throughout. A save he made in the first half from a rocket heading top corner was world class. He flung himself high and left and one handedly extinguished the threat of their going into a 2 goal lead at that point.
Dave was on being Dave, he too was up for it! One memorable pass to the left wing should be what he concentrates on as he recuperates from the imminent surgeon's knife not his Thomas the Tank Engine approach.
They equalised with a soft penalty when the ball struck Roy's hand but the hand was held high. So I gave it. Silence prevailed, not one of them complained about that one and it was arguably more marginal than the one I gave earlier for Knobs. Why did noone come forward from the opposition and urge me to change my mind? Can't understand it. It must be something to do with the human condition!
They took a lead with helluva hard struck shot that swerved and contorted all over the place. Their 4th was very fortunate, a clearance ricochetting off their advancing player and squeezing inside the post.
That's how it stayed folks and at least it was a proper game.
Poor turnout at the pub and I was left with a pint surrounded by their whole team after our minimal contingent had fucked off. Thank God they'd won.
Tuesday 26 March 2013
Monday 18 March 2013
Old Minchendenians 1 Knobs 2
Wrote something earlier but it's obviously nicked off into the ether.
Successful game that defied a personnel issue, a weather issue, a pitch issue and then played at Knebworth, in a good spirit yet very competitively, we emerged the winners. Justifiably? Probably.
Several new faces and a couple of old ones sorry Twiggy!
The refeee was bit of a throwback! Our team was huddled in the centre circle pre match. No it wasn't an unprecedented team talk, it was the referee checking their studs and jewellry! Alistair had to tape over his ring which made shitting difficult but there you are, rules is rules... or is they?
At last we got started. This ref didn't like a tackle, still he played his part and most of his decisions were correct. He did hold up play for an eternity in the arctic chill to practice tying up his bootlaces, then he committed the unforgiveable at half time by pissing 'gainst one of our hallowed trees but then he broke with precedent by showing up at the pub afterwards.
I say, well done that man, representative of a class of beings without whose turning out no games would be possible.
CLAP CLAP CLAP- for he's a jolly good fellow..
Debutant Brian found himself hamstrung after 5 minutes to be replaced by his mate and fellow debutant Darran, a Kev Jones lookalike , right down to hairstyle, huge punt and long throw. And possessor of a nifty little dragback which he employed 6 times and was never robbed!
We fully deserved our half time lead with goals from Vinnie, a thumping close range header from a Bully corner and from a shot by Sean making his home debut. Sean also had a lovely shot ricochet from the cross bar. A scything move initiated by a lively Gavin slalom only failed with the final shot on goal when the hard work had been done.
They threatened intermittently with two tip overs from Dave. The first a genuine save and a praiseworthy effort, the second a little bit of exaggeration on his part, finger tip to it, my arse nae where near.
Second half teams were running out of puff in the cloying mud but they had the advantage of kicking downhill so held a bit of an edge. As we defended increasingly deeper there were danger signs. We were far too deep for their goal. That close in, a ball hits anyone and it can trickle in. So it proved bouncing off their man's hump for a crappy parody of a header. 2-1 and so it remained.
We held on and deservedly won.
I thought everyone tried hard. Twiggy had a fine game after a long absence. Sean is very promising and reads the game well. Craig put in a courageous shift in his bi annual game for us. Gavin could and perhaps should have scored a couple prior to his early departure to a chess tournament in Grantham but at least he was a lively, involved presence today. Ian fell in some dog shit late on which was quite amusing but he played well alongside the crafty Tony. In the middle until late on the defensive midfield pairing of Steve and Richard were rarely overrun. Vinnie put the effort in and was frequently seen in his knackered posture, doubled over hands on knees, but he was a threat throughout.
Quite a few in the Station celebrating something called St Patrick's day where it was compulsory to drink lots of the black nectar. Great!
Went home to see Newcastle crapped on at Wigan. The tackle, the corner not given and the ridiculous piece of Maradona handling. Fergy wouldn't have stood for it but hey we're just a little club.
Successful game that defied a personnel issue, a weather issue, a pitch issue and then played at Knebworth, in a good spirit yet very competitively, we emerged the winners. Justifiably? Probably.
Several new faces and a couple of old ones sorry Twiggy!
The refeee was bit of a throwback! Our team was huddled in the centre circle pre match. No it wasn't an unprecedented team talk, it was the referee checking their studs and jewellry! Alistair had to tape over his ring which made shitting difficult but there you are, rules is rules... or is they?
At last we got started. This ref didn't like a tackle, still he played his part and most of his decisions were correct. He did hold up play for an eternity in the arctic chill to practice tying up his bootlaces, then he committed the unforgiveable at half time by pissing 'gainst one of our hallowed trees but then he broke with precedent by showing up at the pub afterwards.
I say, well done that man, representative of a class of beings without whose turning out no games would be possible.
CLAP CLAP CLAP- for he's a jolly good fellow..
Debutant Brian found himself hamstrung after 5 minutes to be replaced by his mate and fellow debutant Darran, a Kev Jones lookalike , right down to hairstyle, huge punt and long throw. And possessor of a nifty little dragback which he employed 6 times and was never robbed!
We fully deserved our half time lead with goals from Vinnie, a thumping close range header from a Bully corner and from a shot by Sean making his home debut. Sean also had a lovely shot ricochet from the cross bar. A scything move initiated by a lively Gavin slalom only failed with the final shot on goal when the hard work had been done.
They threatened intermittently with two tip overs from Dave. The first a genuine save and a praiseworthy effort, the second a little bit of exaggeration on his part, finger tip to it, my arse nae where near.
Second half teams were running out of puff in the cloying mud but they had the advantage of kicking downhill so held a bit of an edge. As we defended increasingly deeper there were danger signs. We were far too deep for their goal. That close in, a ball hits anyone and it can trickle in. So it proved bouncing off their man's hump for a crappy parody of a header. 2-1 and so it remained.
We held on and deservedly won.
I thought everyone tried hard. Twiggy had a fine game after a long absence. Sean is very promising and reads the game well. Craig put in a courageous shift in his bi annual game for us. Gavin could and perhaps should have scored a couple prior to his early departure to a chess tournament in Grantham but at least he was a lively, involved presence today. Ian fell in some dog shit late on which was quite amusing but he played well alongside the crafty Tony. In the middle until late on the defensive midfield pairing of Steve and Richard were rarely overrun. Vinnie put the effort in and was frequently seen in his knackered posture, doubled over hands on knees, but he was a threat throughout.
Quite a few in the Station celebrating something called St Patrick's day where it was compulsory to drink lots of the black nectar. Great!
Went home to see Newcastle crapped on at Wigan. The tackle, the corner not given and the ridiculous piece of Maradona handling. Fergy wouldn't have stood for it but hey we're just a little club.
Monday 11 March 2013
Monday 4 March 2013
Knobs1 Ware 2
A poor result at the end of a less than enjoyable game. Folk did not seem to be on the same wavelengths in face of an opposition which tried hard, tackled well and always managed to get a toe or a boot in throughout. We can do better and undoubtedly we will. Scored 11 against them at their place!
They scythed through us after 30 seconds probably their best move of the season! Aye aye! They did it again with their next best move of the season and this time finished emphatically. We huffed and puffed but missed the couple of chances we 'created'. There were chances. Their keeper, diminutive he may have been, a pushover he was not. Then we scored from a genuine move. Phil inside to Bully, a raking pass put Gavin through, where he checked before putting it on a plate for Gerry. 1-1 half time. Second half was sure to be different, yet it wasn't. They scored midway through with a rocket free kick that evaded the wall. Action replay please?
Not much more to say today.
Lytton for chicken and chips. Tony and Chris sat next to each other. Next week away v Blunham, personnel permitting.
They scythed through us after 30 seconds probably their best move of the season! Aye aye! They did it again with their next best move of the season and this time finished emphatically. We huffed and puffed but missed the couple of chances we 'created'. There were chances. Their keeper, diminutive he may have been, a pushover he was not. Then we scored from a genuine move. Phil inside to Bully, a raking pass put Gavin through, where he checked before putting it on a plate for Gerry. 1-1 half time. Second half was sure to be different, yet it wasn't. They scored midway through with a rocket free kick that evaded the wall. Action replay please?
Not much more to say today.
Lytton for chicken and chips. Tony and Chris sat next to each other. Next week away v Blunham, personnel permitting.
Monday 25 February 2013
Buntingford Town Vets 0 Knobs 0
Saturday 16 February 2013
Knobs away v Ware Strollers. Farce- a waterlogged pitch!
Off again, bengeo waterlogged yet again our pitch was perfectly playable. Makes you wonder whether people are really bothered about a game!
Monday 11 February 2013
Monday 4 February 2013
MBDA 0 Knobs 2
A fine victory on a dull, cold, windswept day on a pitch that hadn't been grazed since autumn.
Dunno if anyone listened or even took what was said to heart beforehand but that was exactly what this doctor ordered. No purist football in these conditions so keep hastling the man on the ball with energy. They're gonna need two or three touches just to get the thing under control before they can start their playing. Energy and commitment around the ball, the great leveller. Mind you we had players who want to get the ball down and play a bit. Hopefully they wouldn't be so committed and I don't think they were, especially first half. It hadn't gone beyond our notice that a couple of their key players started as subs whether for injuries or because they thought we might be a soft touch I dunno but we took the first half and a two goal lead which we held to the end. Second half saw us dig deep and defend bravely against a multitude of crosses and corners. We deserved what we got.
They were slow out the blocks and we had the better half chances in the first twenty minutes, a long ranger from Chris just over. Their main thrust came from a pacy centre forward but his attempts to play off the last man were thwarted by a canny sense of togetherness by the back four, frequently catching him offside. Vinnie looking a bit laboured on his return from maternity leave was nevertheless causing concern to their defence. He was holding balls up nicely and putting it about a bit. He was rewarded. Springing clear of an offside trap to advance, take it early and sidefoot past the keeper from just inside the area. 1-0.
Roy was setting the standards from the back with some keen tackling and an unerring ability to utilise anatomical parts some humans don't seem to possess! Blocker Roy, well done, committed and brave, just what we needed. Gavin arrived on the touchline and became number one sub as arranged and shortly we went further ahead through Richard who toe poked in from a dozen yards following a sustained bit of pressure. 2-0.
Vinnie was capitulating just before half time, shame on his fitness coach and needed a rest. Gavin came on to replace him. We were not without our telling attacks second half but mainly it was a sterling defensive job that saw us home. Gavin could have netted and Andy was desperately unlucky with a cross shot that evaded the far post. Everyone put in a shift and emphasising individuals would be churlish but I'll have a go. Roy excellent, Tony played his guts out and organised well. Alistair coped manfully with a strange position, left back, hit some good passes and his much derided goal kicks were a bonus on the day, he'd put Johnny Wilkinson in the shade. John Boyle great at full back astute positional play with meaty challenges. Chris Wilson a quiet assassin, played great. Darren coped manfully in his first game back from globetrotting, lot of joy with his little drag back trick, 3 times it worked. Andy, despite physical inequality, really occupied their usually outstanding centre half and tackled back to great effect. Richard played his usual game and wore himself to a standstill with his effort. Not Steve's sort of game creatively but he rolled up his sleeves and defended with the best, only looked heavenwards once! (I'd have brought him back on for a penalty, can you do that?).
Gavin strove manfully for scraps on replacing the mighty Vinny. Goalkeeper, the unbeatable Dave? He organised, positioned himself well and caught everything that came at him, almost! And twice succeeded in reining himself in and not clobbering a forward who got beyond the back four. Can't do better than that!
Ron was linesman- hey it's very tiring, especially keeping up for offsides.
Chris Cox was our away support.
A civilised drink in the Royal Oak then we aal went yem chuffed. The title race is not yet run. Hope Des notes this.
Dunno if anyone listened or even took what was said to heart beforehand but that was exactly what this doctor ordered. No purist football in these conditions so keep hastling the man on the ball with energy. They're gonna need two or three touches just to get the thing under control before they can start their playing. Energy and commitment around the ball, the great leveller. Mind you we had players who want to get the ball down and play a bit. Hopefully they wouldn't be so committed and I don't think they were, especially first half. It hadn't gone beyond our notice that a couple of their key players started as subs whether for injuries or because they thought we might be a soft touch I dunno but we took the first half and a two goal lead which we held to the end. Second half saw us dig deep and defend bravely against a multitude of crosses and corners. We deserved what we got.
They were slow out the blocks and we had the better half chances in the first twenty minutes, a long ranger from Chris just over. Their main thrust came from a pacy centre forward but his attempts to play off the last man were thwarted by a canny sense of togetherness by the back four, frequently catching him offside. Vinnie looking a bit laboured on his return from maternity leave was nevertheless causing concern to their defence. He was holding balls up nicely and putting it about a bit. He was rewarded. Springing clear of an offside trap to advance, take it early and sidefoot past the keeper from just inside the area. 1-0.
Roy was setting the standards from the back with some keen tackling and an unerring ability to utilise anatomical parts some humans don't seem to possess! Blocker Roy, well done, committed and brave, just what we needed. Gavin arrived on the touchline and became number one sub as arranged and shortly we went further ahead through Richard who toe poked in from a dozen yards following a sustained bit of pressure. 2-0.
Vinnie was capitulating just before half time, shame on his fitness coach and needed a rest. Gavin came on to replace him. We were not without our telling attacks second half but mainly it was a sterling defensive job that saw us home. Gavin could have netted and Andy was desperately unlucky with a cross shot that evaded the far post. Everyone put in a shift and emphasising individuals would be churlish but I'll have a go. Roy excellent, Tony played his guts out and organised well. Alistair coped manfully with a strange position, left back, hit some good passes and his much derided goal kicks were a bonus on the day, he'd put Johnny Wilkinson in the shade. John Boyle great at full back astute positional play with meaty challenges. Chris Wilson a quiet assassin, played great. Darren coped manfully in his first game back from globetrotting, lot of joy with his little drag back trick, 3 times it worked. Andy, despite physical inequality, really occupied their usually outstanding centre half and tackled back to great effect. Richard played his usual game and wore himself to a standstill with his effort. Not Steve's sort of game creatively but he rolled up his sleeves and defended with the best, only looked heavenwards once! (I'd have brought him back on for a penalty, can you do that?).
Gavin strove manfully for scraps on replacing the mighty Vinny. Goalkeeper, the unbeatable Dave? He organised, positioned himself well and caught everything that came at him, almost! And twice succeeded in reining himself in and not clobbering a forward who got beyond the back four. Can't do better than that!
Ron was linesman- hey it's very tiring, especially keeping up for offsides.
Chris Cox was our away support.
A civilised drink in the Royal Oak then we aal went yem chuffed. The title race is not yet run. Hope Des notes this.
Sunday 27 January 2013
Monday 21 January 2013
Sunday 13 January 2013
Knobs 3 Harpenden 1
The snow didn't arrive but the Knobs did. A very competitive performance downhill in the first half saw us only 1-0 up but there were no weakneses and they didn'y have a sniff. Unfortunately we did, probably Dave's diet, farter uber alles, puff puff out the mouth matched by phlumff phlumff out the bottom. That's Dave you love him if your olfactory strengths are switched off. ("The fucker stinks the field out" who said that? ).
Hey it was cold. I stood there fully prepared to come on at any wisp of non application but there was none. We passed well and were on top and deservedly went one up when a Bully corner pathetically miscued trickled into the box and evaded everyone except the much derided Brendan who, marauding into the box, forced the ball emphatically home from some part of his knee, ( enjoy your skiing this week Brendan with so many other Knobs. Cunts!
Gavin was playing havoc with his pace but could we get it right for him. Yes we could second half.
1-0 up we were awarded a penalty when one of Gavin's bursts into the area led to a scything. Would I instead of John Twigg given it , I'm certain I would. For the second week running Steve, Mr Reliable, approached and saw his firmly struck shot pushed wide! Either keepers are getting quicker or Steve has not regained his conditining after his long lay off. The gossips are out, after all Gav, number one goalscorer, has a 100% record from the spot! Fortunately for Steve, Gavin doesn't attend the post match discussions at the Lytton, where sanity prevails. Shitty pub, poor choice, bring back the even shittier Station at least it's our shitty Station. Anyway, Steve remains penalty taker!!!!!!
Second half they came on stronger but players might not have noticed but when teams exhiliratingly pour downhill attacking, they rarely fancy tracking back when their moves break down. So this proved to our advanatage as several times we broke only to find our final efforts not quite up to scratch. It was only a matter of time and so it proved. Fuck me I've had to stop, I know we went two up. Is it the the bottle of Chardonnay I've imbibed during this afternoon's Aresnal game or is it dementia? Anyway Gavin scored- it's coming back.......slowly. John, John, John,,,, help....
They poured forward and got got one back from a neat header at the the far post. I'd been tellinng Brendan to tuck in throughout, but perhaps this was a tuck too far.
Our third came from a rasping Gavin shot, via a deflection, I think, and they were never coming back.
I remained on the line throughout because it was like a true match though we were undoubtedly superior and deserved the win. I would have come on if an an injury ensued but tactically there was no need for a sub. Not many people appreciate the need for someone to stand on the line and not get a sniff of action on a Sunday morning's Vets game. But that is proper football. At least the football I was brought up in when accursed subs were introduced sometime in the Sixties.
( I suppose I had nowt better to do, some might say- fuck off, if you want to win each game sometimes individuals have to come along and sometimes simply wait for the good of the team).
John Boyle had a cracker at right back- clearing off the line at one attack at 2-1., Trevor was so competent, lovely fist first half, Brendan's passing was excellent and he was never stretched, he scored and cleared off the line. Roy was magnificient! Tony was immense. Chris worked like a dog, sniff sniff, woof woof. Ian was so hard I loved it, love a bit of hardness. Richard was back and effervescent, Steve, though out of position, too far forward, contributed throughout and was full of vocal encouragement. Dave , headerer from afar, scrapped and fought and always worked hard to get back behind the ball and Gavin was a simply a scourge of Vets teams throughout Hertfordshire or anywhere. The oldies just can't handle pace. Come on Gav, next week Sandy, man of the season is within your reach.
A fair turn out in the Lytton- only chips today- / Gavin wasn't there... cunt.. lost my vote. Next weeek Sandy away oh come all you faithful!!!! Especially you Gavin my finger is twitching!
Hey it was cold. I stood there fully prepared to come on at any wisp of non application but there was none. We passed well and were on top and deservedly went one up when a Bully corner pathetically miscued trickled into the box and evaded everyone except the much derided Brendan who, marauding into the box, forced the ball emphatically home from some part of his knee, ( enjoy your skiing this week Brendan with so many other Knobs. Cunts!
Gavin was playing havoc with his pace but could we get it right for him. Yes we could second half.
1-0 up we were awarded a penalty when one of Gavin's bursts into the area led to a scything. Would I instead of John Twigg given it , I'm certain I would. For the second week running Steve, Mr Reliable, approached and saw his firmly struck shot pushed wide! Either keepers are getting quicker or Steve has not regained his conditining after his long lay off. The gossips are out, after all Gav, number one goalscorer, has a 100% record from the spot! Fortunately for Steve, Gavin doesn't attend the post match discussions at the Lytton, where sanity prevails. Shitty pub, poor choice, bring back the even shittier Station at least it's our shitty Station. Anyway, Steve remains penalty taker!!!!!!
Second half they came on stronger but players might not have noticed but when teams exhiliratingly pour downhill attacking, they rarely fancy tracking back when their moves break down. So this proved to our advanatage as several times we broke only to find our final efforts not quite up to scratch. It was only a matter of time and so it proved. Fuck me I've had to stop, I know we went two up. Is it the the bottle of Chardonnay I've imbibed during this afternoon's Aresnal game or is it dementia? Anyway Gavin scored- it's coming back.......slowly. John, John, John,,,, help....
They poured forward and got got one back from a neat header at the the far post. I'd been tellinng Brendan to tuck in throughout, but perhaps this was a tuck too far.
Our third came from a rasping Gavin shot, via a deflection, I think, and they were never coming back.
I remained on the line throughout because it was like a true match though we were undoubtedly superior and deserved the win. I would have come on if an an injury ensued but tactically there was no need for a sub. Not many people appreciate the need for someone to stand on the line and not get a sniff of action on a Sunday morning's Vets game. But that is proper football. At least the football I was brought up in when accursed subs were introduced sometime in the Sixties.
( I suppose I had nowt better to do, some might say- fuck off, if you want to win each game sometimes individuals have to come along and sometimes simply wait for the good of the team).
John Boyle had a cracker at right back- clearing off the line at one attack at 2-1., Trevor was so competent, lovely fist first half, Brendan's passing was excellent and he was never stretched, he scored and cleared off the line. Roy was magnificient! Tony was immense. Chris worked like a dog, sniff sniff, woof woof. Ian was so hard I loved it, love a bit of hardness. Richard was back and effervescent, Steve, though out of position, too far forward, contributed throughout and was full of vocal encouragement. Dave , headerer from afar, scrapped and fought and always worked hard to get back behind the ball and Gavin was a simply a scourge of Vets teams throughout Hertfordshire or anywhere. The oldies just can't handle pace. Come on Gav, next week Sandy, man of the season is within your reach.
A fair turn out in the Lytton- only chips today- / Gavin wasn't there... cunt.. lost my vote. Next weeek Sandy away oh come all you faithful!!!! Especially you Gavin my finger is twitching!
Sunday 6 January 2013
Knobs 6 Therfield 3
Could have been a difficult game but with Paul coming through in goal in place of a croaky Dave and two contributing guest players Des and Mark we came through well. Not to forget a cameo role from the returning Roy, for it was he, wonderfully blocking John Boyle's nemesis and effectively shutting his trap for the first time in living memory.
I figured we were on for 15 at the start but a lacklustre beginning swiftly saw us 2-0 down and a measure of overstriving entered the proceedings which meant we were not home and dry till the hour mark. Thereafter it could have been a hatful but turned out only six.
Their effective midfielder thumped in an early half chance followed by a Chris deflection which gave us a jolt. 2-0 behind, ten minutes gone.
Ali, good Dave, Bully and Joel exhibited our riches in midfield but none of them were bringing the very best out of Mark. Gerry, very industrious throughout, found Dave who shimmied into the area before carefully netting from a narrow angle. A controversial penalty saw Bully placing hard toward the corner only for their excellent keeper to tip round the corner. Still 2-1 but only a matter of time methinks. Mark carried a ball inside and let fly from 25 and a slight deflection saw the ball loop high into the net. Energy and fitness would settle the game second half. Dave had left with a hamstring pull and Alistair replaced Chris Wilson who went into centre mid to effectively compete against and eventually shackle their best player. A sweet left to right move saw them take the lead, a very well worked goal but we levelled after a deflected shot from Mark was spilled by the keeper and was snaffled by Gerry. Ali then scored a peach from distance, guided through bodies with the outside of his foot into the bottom corner. How many more do you want? Two it seemed. A very sweet cross shot from Joel high over the keeper as he cut in from the left, 5-3. Someone help me out with the other one!
Brendan had a very competent game which he marked with an innovative new style pass, the spoon pass. He tried it 5 times and it came off 4- don't persist Brendan! Watching Roy's 15 minutes stroll out gave me shivers as memories of his play in 5 a sides came flooding back to haunt me. Was it Des who advanced to score the 6th? No it wasn't, he had gallpoed forward in a lovely move earlier , like Arkle, before hitting too high. des not Arkle. No it was Chris Wilson who rifled home the sixth after an excellent move.
Two games against Therfield one we concede 9 and score 3 or 4 and today. Difference a fixture of two keepers really. Ours then and theirs today.
Good turn out at the chicken abbatoir. I left early for a mushroom risotto lunch in Welwyn.
Toodle pip and Happy New Year.
PS
Maggie in hysterics all day. If anyone sees me reffing and chewing me gob while slouching round with hands behind back, kick me up the arse.
She's still laughing. I'm really upset.
Ronald
I figured we were on for 15 at the start but a lacklustre beginning swiftly saw us 2-0 down and a measure of overstriving entered the proceedings which meant we were not home and dry till the hour mark. Thereafter it could have been a hatful but turned out only six.
Their effective midfielder thumped in an early half chance followed by a Chris deflection which gave us a jolt. 2-0 behind, ten minutes gone.
Ali, good Dave, Bully and Joel exhibited our riches in midfield but none of them were bringing the very best out of Mark. Gerry, very industrious throughout, found Dave who shimmied into the area before carefully netting from a narrow angle. A controversial penalty saw Bully placing hard toward the corner only for their excellent keeper to tip round the corner. Still 2-1 but only a matter of time methinks. Mark carried a ball inside and let fly from 25 and a slight deflection saw the ball loop high into the net. Energy and fitness would settle the game second half. Dave had left with a hamstring pull and Alistair replaced Chris Wilson who went into centre mid to effectively compete against and eventually shackle their best player. A sweet left to right move saw them take the lead, a very well worked goal but we levelled after a deflected shot from Mark was spilled by the keeper and was snaffled by Gerry. Ali then scored a peach from distance, guided through bodies with the outside of his foot into the bottom corner. How many more do you want? Two it seemed. A very sweet cross shot from Joel high over the keeper as he cut in from the left, 5-3. Someone help me out with the other one!
Brendan had a very competent game which he marked with an innovative new style pass, the spoon pass. He tried it 5 times and it came off 4- don't persist Brendan! Watching Roy's 15 minutes stroll out gave me shivers as memories of his play in 5 a sides came flooding back to haunt me. Was it Des who advanced to score the 6th? No it wasn't, he had gallpoed forward in a lovely move earlier , like Arkle, before hitting too high. des not Arkle. No it was Chris Wilson who rifled home the sixth after an excellent move.
Two games against Therfield one we concede 9 and score 3 or 4 and today. Difference a fixture of two keepers really. Ours then and theirs today.
Good turn out at the chicken abbatoir. I left early for a mushroom risotto lunch in Welwyn.
Toodle pip and Happy New Year.
PS
Maggie in hysterics all day. If anyone sees me reffing and chewing me gob while slouching round with hands behind back, kick me up the arse.
She's still laughing. I'm really upset.
Ronald
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