This week’s fixtures:
Darley Sports Napoli U7's vs. Heanor Town Hearts U7's
Allestree Juniors Napoli U7's vs. Heanor Town Thunder U7's
Shirebrook Rangers U9’s vs. Heanor Town Harriers U9’s
Basford United U9's vs. Heanor Town Hurricanes U9's
Field lane Spartans U10's vs. Heanor Town Comets U10's
Heanor Town Hawks U10's vs. Mickleover RBL Vipers U10's
Matlock Town Gladiators U12's vs. Heanor Town Diamonds U12's
Priory Celtic Hoops U13’s vs. Heanor Town Lions U13’s
Heanor Town Unity U13’s vs. Hilton Harriers Storm U13’s
Priory Celtic 1967 U13’s vs. Heanor Town Warriors U13’s
Arnold Eagles FC Hawks U14's vs. Heanor Town Tornados U14's
Mickleover County Rangers U15’s vs. Heanor Town Black & Whites U15’s
Team of the Week:
Kit – U7 Hearts
Frankie – U7 Thunder
Alin – U9 Harriers
Jenson F – U9 Hurricanes
Jenson H– U9 Hurricanes
George – U10 Comets
John – U10 Comets
Rex – U10 Hawks
Aaliya - U12 Diamonds
Lois – U12 Diamonds
Eva – U14 Tornados
Sienna – U14 Tornados
Ethan – U15 Black & Whites
Match Reports:
Darley Sports Napoli U7's vs. Heanor Town Hearts U7's
The relentless DJFL Group 1 threw up another extremely tough challenge for the Hearts today as they went head-to-head with Darley Sports Napoli.
Darley showed their quality straight from kick-off with an unstoppable long-range effort. The energetic Kit and Chester were fighting for every ball, not giving the Darley boys a spare second. Harvey showed his attacking threat with some impressive quick footwork down the left, but he just ran out of space before being able to get his shot away to test the keeper.
Birthday boy Lucas was once again defending like a seasoned pro, standing up attackers and timing his tackles to perfection.
Despite some promising moments, the Hearts boys were quickly blown away by a rampant Darley, as they registered five quick fire goals in as many minutes to undo the Hearts resilience, Louie given no chance in goal with any of the finishes.
Charlie and Oscar were introduced, and they instantly linked up well down the left and up front, respectively. Charlie’s usual explosive nature was hindered for a second successive week, as he struggles to try and shake off illness, however, there was no denying him going two weeks without a goal… following a brilliant press winning the ball back high up the pitch, the ball was played into the feet of Charlie who guided a lovely left footed strike tight inside the post to get his side a goal back.
At the break, the boys were once again reminded to play the game with belief in their abilities, and they responded brilliantly.
Kit was everywhere, chasing down the opposition, and every lost ball whilst trying to drive down the right-hand side at every opportunity. Oscar and Louie were both full of energy, Louie showing great strength and determination to burst through the Darley defence with the ball, going close to registering a goal back before Darley got a vital toe in to clear the ball.
Defensively, the boys were so much more impressive, Lucas and Louie were both heroic in getting their bodies in the way to block certain goal bound Darley efforts, with Chester making a superb couple of saves. The Hearts continued to push forward in search of the next goal, but they were unable to break through the stern Darley defence.
The Hearts once again on the end of a heavier than deserved score line, they can all once again be proud of their efforts, particularly in the second half following a really tough opening twenty minutes.
Player of the Match – Kit Cooper, a bundle of energy throughout the game, great attitude and determination to keep fighting for his team. Superb performance Kit, well done, mate.
The U7 Hearts are proudly sponsored by Blue Stream Academy www.bluestreamacademy.com and Cytec Solvay www.solvay.com
Allestree Juniors Napoli U7's vs. Heanor Town Thunder U7's
The Thunder went into this game full of confidence following a cup win last week, and hoping to take their 3rd win in 4 games.
It was a bright start to the game. The Thunder looked solid at the back with Harvey in defence and Oliver Booker in goal. The midfield was full of energy, driven on by Louis Stephenson. Oliver Burnell worked hard upfront, and Frankie pressed from a deeper midfield position.
Allestree couldn't keep hold of the ball due to the Thunder boys' pressing and work rate, with Frankie going close on the break.
The deadlock was broken by Frankie with a smart finish from the edge of the box.
Allestree continued trying and did well to keep it to just the one until half time. Especially with Roux working his socks off up front and Jax striking over the bar from close range.
The Thunder came out flying after half time, winning their individual battles and dominating proceedings.
Spencer and Oliver Burnell, barely troubled during their spells in goal, were protected well by defenders Harvey and Roux.
Shay won his duels in midfield and consistently fed the ball to his teammates, setting up Jax to opportunistically fire into an open net.
Frankie rounded off the game with a brilliant finish into the bottom corner from a tight angle.
I am extremely proud of the Thunder boys today. The work rate was high from all, brave and sharp in the tackle, and their understanding for each other's game is growing every week.
MOTM went to Frankie Davies, who was brave and direct and is starting to show great finesse when it matters most. I am extremely grateful to have this remarkable young man in our team and to watch his development and improvement
Shirebrook Rangers U9’s vs. Heanor Town Harriers U9’s
It was back to league action today for the Harriers, making the trip up the M1 to face a strong Shirebrook side.
Needing a win to go back joint top of the league, the Harriers had to take all three points.
From the off, it was clear the Harriers were up for the challenge. Playing with a solid shape, the Harriers started the game on the front foot, threatening Shirebrooks goal with some great link up play between Harry Haslam, Alin Dragu, and Charnley Bolton.
Shirebrooks threat came down the left wing where they had plenty of pace, but Riley Thacker was more than a match for Shirebrooks winger in what proved to be a great battle for most of the game.
After playing most of the half in Shirebrooks final third and creating loads of chances, the Harriers finally made the all-important break through with a trademark finish from Alin Dragu after some great battling from Ashton Vallis.
The second half was played out pretty much the same, with the Harriers dominating territory and creating more chances, but just couldn’t find that second to seal the game.
Towards the end of the game as the Harriers protected their lead, Shirebrook did start to cause problems for the Harriers defence but in Stanley and Alex Taylor, the Harriers have a strong back line both players putting in some great tackles and blocks.
The final effort on goal came from Shirebrook with an effort bound for the top corner. The Harriers keeper Leo Edge pulled off a top draw save, tipping the effort around the post to keep the much-needed clean sheet.
In very difficult weather conditions, the Harriers produced a commanding and battling performance. A win away from home and a clean sheet. The Harriers now march on to our final league game, joint top of the league with one game to go.
MOM - Alin Dragu. Alin came up with that all-important goal and ran himself into the ground for the team. Well done, Alin.
The Harriers are proudly sponsored by TC Harrison JCB. Thank you for your continued support to the team.
Basford United U9's vs. Heanor Town Hurricanes U9's
Another week disrupted by the heavy rain saw the Hurricanes invited across to neighbouring county Basford Utd for a test against their technically strong side from the age group below, on the sublime 4G facilities.
An earlier start time than usual meant both goalkeeper Charlie Colson and defender Tyler Higgins were unavailable, with leading goal scorer Elijah Graham filling in in-between the sticks.
It was a fast-paced start to the game, and Basford didn’t waste any time to show some strong passing, excellent movement, and quick reactions, resulting in a couple of early goals.
Heanor though, quickly adjusted and showed some great character, loads of hunger and a bit of fire in their belly for the remainder of the game, not conceding any more goals, helped by a couple of superb saves from Elijah.
The defensive partnership of Jenson Harrison and Finley Shaw, and later on Max Appleby, all did a fantastic job minimising the chances for Basford, and all showed excellent distribution from the back.
Jobie Edmonds-Jackson put in a top display in central midfield, utilising his height well against smaller opposition, and cut out numerous attacks from Basford, topping it off with an excellent poachers finish to pull one back for Heanor, after a great delivery from Jenson Fletcher on the wing.
The Hurricanes pushed and pushed for the equaliser, with Will Johnson tirelessly chasing everything down up top, and almost found it from Ellis Bestwick calmly controlling an excellent whip in from Jenson Fletcher, before unleashing his shot towards the impressive Basford keeper who managed to scoop it out for a corner kick. A bit longer and no doubt the Hurricanes would have got their 2nd goal.
All in all, a really solid performance against a strong technical team and great to see the lads with a smile on their face for getting to play some football whilst the wet weather disrupts the usual league schedule, well done Hurricanes.
Parents Player - Jenson Harrison, solid at the back, was up and down the field and showed some great passing. Well done, Jenson.
Coaches Player - Jenson Fletcher showed some good quality control throughout, really effective on the wing, and played some excellent balls in setting up the Heanor goal. Well done, Jenson.
Field lane Spartans U10's vs. Heanor Town Comets U10's
The Comets were looking to continue their great run of form in a Shield fixture against their opponents, Field Lane Spartans.
To those reading this match report, the following could come across as too critical of an U10's side. But the Comets need a true reflection to build on going forward in the teams development, and build on it we will.
Due to fixtures rearranged from last weekend, then a kick-off time change this weekend, both teams were just looking forward to playing football going into this one. Or so it seemed before the game...
The Comets lined up with Isaac Swindell in goal. HHC and EM in defence. Theo Henshaw in central midfield alongside wingers Olan Brown and George Martin. Today's Captain, Jack Hobster, led the attack. Blaine Walker, Harry Peacey, John Rutherford, Kian Tipton, and Sonny Jackson waited on the sidelines for their opportunity.
The Comets seemed up for it from the kick off, chasing down and winning back possession on numerous occasions early on. The Comets tried to fight their way through the powerful Spartans' defence. The ball was spilled out to the left from the said action, for George to run on to and loop in a chipped effort from the left wing, which nestled into the back of the net to put the Comets ahead in the second minute.
Despite the Comets lead, the Spartans weren't fazed and played their football really well. Working the ball up the field and challenging the Comets' resolve.
The game was end to end, but it was the Spartans that looked more comfortable, and it paid off in the tenth minute when they pulled a goal back. The mistakes leading up to the goal were very frustrating and not what we're used to seeing from our Comet boys.
Both teams continued to battle, with each getting opportunities, but nothing quite falling in front of the goal. This played out until the half-time whistle, with the Spartans looking the more likely to go ahead.
A hard but simple speech at half time, 'it's just not good enough, Comets". They're all great footballers, which has been evident this season, but today, they all looked a shell of the players we're used to witnessing. We encouraged them to get to the ball first, to stay strong, and to be confident in themselves.
Within minutes of the restart, it looked like the Comets hadn't woken up. Everything we talked about at half time didn't seem to have any impact on the Comets.
The Spartans had a game plan and played it very well. Big and strong at the back, with players winning the midfield and attacking battles.
Their goalkeeper could only be described as a unit. He had everything. Big, strong, and confident. He controlled his area with authority, and it gave the rest of the Spartans team confidence to move forward. Very impressive.
Attempts came and went for both teams, but nothing with any bite for the Comets. The Spartans were clearly frustrating the Comets, with a couple of needless fouls creeping in. One of which led to a wonderfully taken freekick for the Spartans, which sailed over everyone and into the goal to put the Spartans into a deserved lead.
We had 5 minutes to go, which would normally galvanise the Comets into a late flurry of attacks, but today just wasn't our day. A few attempts came, but nothing of any conviction, and the Spartans saw the game out for their first round Shield upset win to knock the Comets out.
The team was encouraged to congratulate all the Spartans, who were simply the better team on the day. There's no point dressing it up any differently. It was just a bad day at the office for the Comets. On our day, we could have given much more of a fight and easily taken the win. That all being said, I was very impressed by the Field Lane Spartans. Good luck with the rest of the competition.
In writing this report, I've made a point not to mention players' names other than the lineup and the goal scored. My point being that it was a collective disappointment today. It wasn't for anyone to be singled out. It was the whole squad that just didn't seem up for it. Including me, the manager, who even forgot to bring the player of the match medals.
An experience that we need to use to work off of as a team and come back stronger from. We know this is only a blip. We're much better than this showing, and I'm positive we'll be back to our usual selves in the next match.
We go again!
Big thanks to our teams' kit sponsors, Matthew Walker. From the whole Comet family, thank you.
Supporters Player of the Match - John Rutherford
Managers Player of the Match - George Martin
Heanor Town Hawks U10's vs. Mickleover RBL Vipers U10's
The Hawks bounce back after going out the cup.
After suffering a heavy defeat in the cup last week, the Hawks were up against another Mickleover team. The coaching team did our best to get the kids motivated and send them out prepared.
It was clear from the first whistle that the Hawks were up for it, and although they had to dig in at times, all the team put a proper shift in today.
After a hard battled first half, the Hawks found themselves in an unfamiliar situation of being in the lead, and one that was fully deserved.
The second half saw the Hawks continue to show real grit and determination, and they were unlucky not to add to their lead.
They did everything but score. Another goal for the Hawks would have put the game out of reach, but it just wouldn’t come.
Credit to Mickleover. They never gave up, and with 5 minutes left, they managed to get a scrappy own goal. The Hawks continued to push and were still working tirelessly in search of a winning goal, but in the end, they had to settle for the draw.
It was a brilliant performance from all today and one that will hopefully install some confidence in these young stars.
Onwards and upwards as ever. Come on you Hawks.
Well done to our MOTM Rex Reed. Since joining in the summer, he’s become a vital player for the Hawks. He showed his class today and produced a bit of magic for the Hawks' goal. Keep up the good work, lad.
Matlock Town Gladiators U12's vs. Heanor Town Diamonds U12's
The Diamonds travelled to Matlock to face Matlock Town Gladiators in a match that they knew was going to be tough a game. The pitch had taken a battering from the recent poor weather conditions, which made for a very muddy and tough playing surface.
With Jodie in goal, Aaliya, Bonnie, and Layla made up the defensive line with Captain, Tammy returning from illness to lead the team out alongside Lois in central midfield. Izzy and Cara on the flanks and Lucy leading the attack up top. Kath and new signing Laya were ready to come off the bench to make an impact.
The game got off to a slow start from both teams as they tried to get to grips with the tough and muddy playing conditions. The Gladiators were the first to find their feet and began to control the game with some neat passes into the wide players that caused the Diamonds defence a few problems.
Aaliya and Layla were made to work defensively and remained strong to prevent the Matlock wingers from getting the ball into the box. The Gladiators caused a few more problems for the Diamonds with some well worked corners that saw the Gladiators attacking line all pushing as a unit from the edge of the box as the corners were delivered. Once again, the Diamonds adapted well to the press from the Gladiators with Tammy dropping deep to bolster the defence with some important blocks to break down the attacks. Aliya, Bonnie, and Layla worked tirelessly to keep the score level.
The breakthrough did come midway through the first half, and it was the Gladiators that took the lead. An unfortunate wayward goal kick that landed at the feet of the Gladiators striker who hit it first time, and despite Jodie’s effort to get a hand to it, the ball sneaked into the net to put the Gladiators ahead.
This seemed to inspire the Diamonds as they looked to get back into the game as soon as they could. Tammy and Lois began to control the midfield, knocking it wide and making some good runs into the middle to try and get on the end of the crosses into the box from Lucy and Izzy but it just didn’t fall into the right areas. Kath and Laya were brought on for Tammy and Cara to pile the pressure onto the Gladiators' defence.
The relentless effort from the Diamonds almost paid off as they were awarded a penalty for handball. Unfortunately, Lucy’s effort was saved by the very good Gladiators goalkeeper. The Diamonds went into the break behind despite having the majority of the possession and were the better side throughout the first half.
A half-time team talk encouraged the Diamonds to keep playing their football as they did in the first half. And they did just that straight from the restart. Lucy caused the Gladiators all sorts of problems both centrally and out wide, getting on the end of some lovely passing moves from Lois and Tammy. Unfortunately, the Gladiators' defence and goalkeeper held strong to keep their lead.
The Gladiators did find their way back into the game momentarily with a few quick counter attacks that led to some corner kicks. The Diamonds were wise to the set piece tactic and defended it well. Aaliya and Layla giving Jodie options for the short goal kicks that set up the Diamonds wide attacks.
As the second half went on, the Diamonds pushed and pushed for the equaliser. Aaliya launching some fantastic throw-ins into the box, and Lucy, Tammy, Kath, Izzy, and Lois all going close to finding the equaliser, but it just wasn’t to be as the Gladiators defence and goalkeeper just about held on. The Diamonds couldn't do anymore as the full-time whistle was blown, resulting in the first defeat of the season.
A scoreline that did not truly reflect the great performance from the Diamonds. The effort and determination to find an equaliser was there for all to see, but it just wasn’t meant to be on the day.
A brilliant defensive performance, along with some fantastic throw-ins that caused the Gladiators all kinds of problems saw Aaliya take home the parent's player of the match.
An equally brilliant performance from Lois as she tirelessly ran and ran in an effort to find an equaliser for the Diamonds saw her take home the managers player of the match.
A special thanks goes to Matthew Walker for sponsoring the Diamonds.
Arnold Hawks U14's vs. Heanor Town Tornados U14's
The Tornados travelled to title chasing Arnold missing Hull, Suess, and Smith and also with several players carrying knocks so they knew they would be in for a tough game against a side with several academy players in their ranks.
Zakulec was in goal with a back five of Jones, Shields, MacDonald, Rawson, and Last. Collins, Prince, and Ward made up a midfield three with Captain Pearson supporting Johnstone up top.
Arnold knocked the ball around very well, especially utilising the wide players to put crosses in. But the back five held firm with all of them putting in clearance after clearance and also catching Arnold offside on several occasions. Pearson was full of running whilst Ward, Collins, and Prince, did their best to support her. Johnstone once again kept the defence busy with her running.
Shields, and then Jones, needed to come off with knocks, so Ward went to the unfamiliar position of right back and was superb. Franklin came on to continue her impressive form of late along with Goodwin, who put a brilliant shift in to frustrate Arnold.
Sadly, Arnold's class finally told with four goals coming from a superb long shot, a cross that wasn't picked up, a simply amazing free kick, and then a corner that wasn't cleared. The Tornados' first half performance didn't deserve that, but that's the luck this team has been having of late, sadly.
At the half time, the girls were asked to keep their heads up and reminded to keep their focus.
The second half followed the pattern of the first with some brave defending from Jones, MacDonald, Shields, Last and, in particular, Rawson. Franklin and Ward also put in a serious shift all half. Goodwin, Collins, and Prince got stuck in with Pearson, and Johnstone asked to try and worry the Arnold defence.
Arnold were the ones though pouring forward, and whilst the Tornados defence all tried their hardest to keep the forwards at bay, injuries and bad luck once again haunted the team. MacDonald, who was again excellent, got caught and sadly had to come off. Ward again going to right back showing brilliant teamwork.
Arnold scored another four from brilliant long shots and corners where the Tornados maybe could have dealt with them better... but that's football, sadly.
In the end, the score may have favoured the hosts, but that only tells one side of the story. If effort and commitment equalled goals, then the Tornados would have had a bucket load.
Coaches’ players - Sienna Rawson. Could have been any of the defenders in truth, but Sienna covered every blade of grass, making last ditch tackles and clearances.
Players player - Eva Ward. Showed amazing teamwork slotting in seamlessly at right back to aid the cause.
Team proudly sponsored by:
J&A Engineering
Broadbents Solicitors