Team Profile, Information and Match reports 15/16
Under 9 Blacks
Managers Profile: Name: How long have you been involved with Pennine Juniors?
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How long have you been managing a team? What is your football background? What do you find challenging when managing a team? What do you like most about managing a team? What has been your funniest/best/most memorable moment? Describe your team: What are you focusing on in training at the moment? Tell us about your best game to date and why it was the best: What advice/tips would you give to young, up and coming footballers? Enjoy playing and always listen to your coaches and smile
Contact details: russp73@btinternet.com 07825392249 Training times and details: Wednesday Cardinal Langley, 18:30
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Results at a glance: Pennine Juniors Under 9`s Blacks 2015/2016 Season Date
Home
05.09.15
Pennine Blacks
9
12.09.15
Clarence Athletic
1
19.09.15
Pennine Blacks
2
26.09.15
Pennine Blacks
3
03.10.15
Walshaw sports whites Roach Dynamos Whites Pennine Blacks
3 3
28.11.15
Milnrow juniors Walshaw sports Club Pennine Blacks
12.12.15
Pennine Blacks
5
09.01.16
1
16.01.16 23.01.16
Chadderton Park Eagles Pennine Blacks Pennine Blacks
31.01.16
Middleton Lads Reds
8
10.10.15 17.10.15 24.10.15 14.11.15
Goal Scorers Benjamin Buckley Brodie Hill Sebastian Crompton Samuel Butterworth Issac McDowell Aaron Horrocks
Away
Scorers
MOM Brodie
Ramsbottom united jedi Pennine Blacks
0
3 2
Isaac, Lewis (2)
Sebastian
0
Rossendale Valley Tigers Chadderton Park Lions Pennine Blacks
Lucas (3); Lewis; Issac Nathan(2);Aaron (2) Issac (3) Ben (2) Lewis; Emile; Lucas; Aaron Nathan, Lucas
6
Nathan
3
Pennine Blacks
8
2
Walshaw sports Club Pennine Blacks Pennine Blacks
2
Nathan; Isaac; Lucas; Lewis; Emile(2) Lewis (2); Nathan (3) Aaron; Lucas; Issac Lewis; Nathan
5 2
Isaac; Ben; Lewis; Emile(2) Lewis; Lucas
Ben Lewis
Prestwich Marauder Panthers Radcliffe Juniors Tigers Pennine Blacks
2
Lewis(2); Aaron(2); Emile
Team award
0
Lucas ; Lewis ; Emile(3)
Brodie
6
Team award
Middleton Lads Reds Whitworth Valley Greens Pennine Blacks
3 1
OG; Emile(2);Nathan; Aaron; Ben Emile Aaron(3);Ben(2);Nathan; Issac; Emile;Lewis Nathan; Issac; Ben
5
1 9
7
10 10
9
3
Samuel Emile
Nathan Sebastian
Issac Aaron Ben
Man Of The Match Awards Benjamin Buckley Brodie Hill Sebastian Crompton Samuel Butterworth Issac McDowell Aaron Horrocks
2 2 2 1 1 1
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Emile Humphreys Lucas Edwards Lewis Inns Nathan Perks
13 9 14 11
Emile Humphreys Lucas Edwards Lewis Inns Nathan Perks
1 1 2
Match reports: Opponent: Ramsbottom United Jedi Date: 05/09/15 Venue: Hopwood Hall Result: Won 9-0 Match report: Pennine Blacks met Ramsbottom United Jedi at Hopwood Hall this morning for the 2015/2016 season opener. Pennine kicked off. The first 10 minutes were quite tight with both teams working each other out. A good shot from Lucas from the left clipped the post, and then a snapshot from Rammy forced an excellent save to his right Benjamin in the Pennine goal. A slick Pennine move through the middle forced the best out of the Rammy keeper before the deadlock was broken around the 13 minute mark when Lucas found the the top corner with a powerful left foot strike. Soon after, only a last ditch tackle denied Emile his first goal of the season after a great ball in from Issac. The second goal wasn`t far away and it came after more great work from Issac, who fed the ball to Lewis, his superb low strike hit the post and bounced in off the unfortunate Rammy goalie. Rammy were still having a fair amount of possession but struggled to get through the strong Pennine backline with Brodie and Sebastian reading the game superbly. Pennine scored a third around the 20 minute mark, when a well rehearsed short corner routine between Issac and Emile resulted in a great ball into the danger zone which Lucas got a final touch on. Two more Pennine goals followed before half time when Lewis showed some silky skills in the middle of the park before slipping the ball wide to Issac who finished emphatically into the roof of the Rammy net. On the stroke of half time Lucas latched onto a loose ball inside his own half and broke away before unleashing an unstoppable shot. Half time 5-0 to Pennine The second half started where the first had left off with Pennine soon into their stride. A quick throw from the Samuel to Nathan caught the Rammy defence napping and when Nathan fired in a low cross, Aaron was waiting at the far post to finish calmly and make it 6-0. A carbon copy soon after saw Issac putting the ball across for Nathan to score Page | 4
Pennine`s 7th. Nathan then added another when he swivelled on a loose ball in the box and smashed it under the keeper. Cruising at 8-0 yet the boy’s determination and work rate was summed up when Aaron battled superbly to win the ball on the edge of the box then hit a low shot to the keeper’s right, who got a foot to it but was unable to keep the ball out. The last 5 minutes saw the blacks with a fair amount of defending to do, but the boy’s determination to keep a clean sheet saw them hold out until the final whistle.9-0 the result. A cracking start to the season for the blacks with composed defending ably backed up by Benjamin in goal meant the forward and midfield players could play with confidence and put into practice the slick passing and strong running that their intense pre-season training had focussed on. Excellent work boys! Brodie was today`s Man of the Match Thanks to Richard for refereeing..
Match reports: Opponent: Clarence Athletic Date: 12/05/15 Venue: Heywood Sports Village Result: Won 9-1 Match report: It was a wet morning in Heywood when Pennine Blacks, without Nathan who was on family duties, took to the field in their first away fixture of the season against a well fancied Clarence Athletic team. Following their 9-0 demolition of Rammy Jedi the previous week, The Blacks were soon back onto their stride within a minute of the kick off when Lewis drilled home Lucas`s left foot corner to open the scoring. Lewis came close again moments later from another Lucas corner from the opposite side. Emile was then thwarted by a point blank save from the Clarence keeper. Following a spot of head tennis a great ball in from the right by Issac was Cooley guided into the bottom corner by Emile to make it 2-0 to Pennine. Clarence were still having a decent share of possession but were unable to find a way through the strong Pennine back line. A lovely flowing move involving Samuel, Emile and Lewis ended in Lucas slotting in the third midway through the first half. Aaron then guided a superb cushioned volley in straight from a corner to make it 4-0. Towards the end of the half the Pennine goal came under some pressure from a series of corners but the defended well and a combination of good goalkeeping from Ben and some stout defending, notably from Seb kept the clean sheet intact and the half finished 4-0 to the Blacks. Clarence came close straight from the restart but were denied by an excellent save to his right by Ben. Pennine then went straight up the other end of the pitch and Issac was unlucky to hit the post after typical jinking run by Lewis released him down the left. Emile battled well to win the ball and held off a couple of very strong tackles before setting up Issac who smashed a right footed shot into the roof of the Clarence net to get Pennine fifth. Issac then quickly chalked up another goal with an unstoppable shot into the top corner. Brodie then had a fabulous right footed effort on the turn well saved by the Clarence keeper. Half way through the second half Dave, who was in sole charge of team affairs in Russ`s absence, decided to give Ben a run out up front, with Brodie taking over in Page | 5
goal. Samuel then slotted a neat ball through to Issac and he completed his hat-trick with a well placed shot inside the far post. Aaron, who was getting some close attention from the Clarence defence, used his pace well to create a couple of openings but the Clarence keeper was in good form. The switch from goalkeeper to poacher soon paid dividends for Ben when he headed the ball on to himself from a throw, beat 2 defenders then finished well with his left foot to make it 8-0 to Pennine. More pressure followed from Clarence and despite taking some studs to the head, Seb remained a rock at the back. Sadly for the blacks, they were to then concede their first goal of the season when slacker than usual marking allowed a deft flick from a corner to creep inside the near post. Undeterred, Pennine went back onto the attack and Ben took another throw in his stride and placed a right footed shot under the keeper to wrap the game up and seal a resounding 9-1 win for the Blacks. A second win and another 9 scored will give the boys great confidence but they should also be proud of the way they are defending as a team and making themselves a very difficult team to score against through their fitness, determination and great team work. Samuel was chosen as today`s man of the match.
Match reports: Opponent: Rossendale Valley Tigers Date: 19/09/2015 Venue: Hopwood hall Result: Lost 3-2 Match report: On a fine sunny morning at Hopwood Hall, Pennine Blacks took to the field for second home game of the season against established top-flight outfit Rossendale Valley Tigers. The blacks begun on the front foot with a couple of early chances when Lucas screwed a half chance wide, Issac was off target too from a good ball in from the left from Lucas. The Tigers however, were more clinical with their finishing and went in front with their first real effort when their left winger got past his marker and put a good cross in which was finished well, giving Benjamin little chance. The Blacks were getting closer to the target with their chances as Lucas found the side netting with a shot before Nathan grabbed the Blacks opener with a clever flick after excellent work by Lewis and Brodie. In a well matched contest, the Tigers were soon back on the attack and Benjamin had to be at his best to tip a piledriver from 20yds onto the bar. At the other end Nathan was a constant threat and Issac had a good shot blocked by the keeper on the near post after a cheeky Megs on the tigers left back. On 16 minutes Lucas put the Blacks 2-1 up with a powerful shot into the top corner but back came the Tigers again forcing a good save from Ben low to his left. As the half drew to a close, a couple of typical last ditch tackles from Sebastian kept the Blacks in front, before Aaron linked up well with Lewis to force a corner but it was well defended and the half finished 2-1 to the Blacks. Soon into the second half Brodie had to go off after taking a heavy knock and shortly after the scores were level when a well struck long range effort went in off the post. Soon after Page | 6
the equaliser the Blacks were back on the attack as Emile who had worked his socks off in midfield had a surging run forward and had his effort blocked for a corner. Aaron then broke well down the right and saw his ball into the danger zone handled by a Tigers defender. The resulting penalty was well struck by Emile but sadly the Tigers goalie kept it out and the scores remained level. The game continued to swing from one end to the other and Benjamin twice saved the Blacks when one on one after the Tigers had sprung the Pennine defence. It was third time unlucky though as the Tigers smashed a shot against the bar and their attacker managed to poke home the rebound. Undeterred at 3-2 down the Blacks went back onto the attack and a snapshot from Issac was well saved. Samuel then took over in goal to allow Benjamin to bolster the Pennine attack as they laid siege to the Tigers goal in search of the equaliser. The makeshift keeper was soon called into action as the Blacks was caught on the break, but despite being rooted to his line, Samuel was able to stop the shot and watched as the rebound was poked wide. With Brodie back on the pitch and he and his defensive partner Sebastian driving the Blacks the Blacks pressure was building. Ben had a shot on the turn tipped wide, a long ranger from Lewis went just wide, Lucas intercepted a clearance well but saw his shot go wide then another great shot by Lewis was deflected then palmed away for a corner. Despite the intense pressure the Tigers well organised defence held firm and the match finished at 3-2 to the Tigers. First defeat for the newly formed Blacks and whilst they may not have been at their best this morning, they played well against a very strong side, attacking and defending has a team. Matches like this will only help with their development. Emile produced an all action display in midfield and was a worthy Man of the Match. Thanks to Richard for refereeing.
Match reports: Opponent: Chadderton Park Lions Date: 26/09/2015 Venue: Hopwood hall Result: Won 3-2 Match report: With a dewy pitch on a fine morning, conditions were well suited to the Blacks slick passing game as they took on Chadderton Park Lions in their second home match in as many weeks. Lucas was unavailable, so the Blacks lined up with Benjamin in goal, Sebastian and Samuel taking up their defensive duties, Lewis and Emile across the middle and Aaron and Nathan “Up Top�. Brodie and Isaac were ready on the sidelines. The opening exchanges saw little given away by either side with lots of good passing play but defences on top with both Samuel and Sebastian making timely tackles to prevent any threats on Benjamin’s goal. A couple of half chances at the other end fell to Lewis and Emile but were also well defended by a quick Lions back line. With the Lions attempts Page | 7
on goal being limited, Ben had to still be alert to comfortably make saves from a couple of long range efforts. Around the 12 Minute mark Samuel and Aaron made way for Brodie and Isaac and Following a couple of further stops in play for injuries to the Lions players and some lace-tying duties, gradually the Blacks began to get the upper hand but still got no change from the stubborn Lions defence. As half time neared a sustained spell of Blacks pressure on the edge of the Lions penalty area resulted in Nathan having a snap shot well saved by the Lions keeper with his legs and a shot on the turn by Emile was touched wide for a corner. At last the pressure finally told when Nathan did well to set up Isaac who placed a low effort beyond the despairing Lions keeper. Play soon swung back up to the other end with Brodie and Sebastian having to be at their best to prevent an equaliser before half time. Moments into the second half Emile was denied by a last ditch tackle when bearing down on goal, while at the other end another long range effort took an awkward bounce and was well held by Benjamin. Aaron then found himself one on one with the Lions keeper but saw the ball poked away from him just as he was about to pull the trigger. Soon after, great footwork by Lewis created himself space for shot which he drove into the left corner to put the Blacks 2-0 up. Aaron then found himself with a half chance but was well closed down by the Lions keeper. At the other end Samuel managed to get his foot to a strong shot from left which deflected onto the post and away to safety. A typical flowing move down the left saw Emile feed Isaac who then put a great ball into Aaron but his good effort was well parried by the keeper for a corner. The Lions then managed a break down the right and a well struck shot went under the keeper to put them back into the game at 2-1. With pressure on the Blacks beginning to build a Lions corner resulted in a shot across the face of goal which the onrushing attackers just failed to connect with. The equaliser then came when a similar chance found a Lions player at the far post who finished well despite Sebastian’s best efforts to keep the ball out. With all to play for, the Blacks heads didn’t drop and they immediately went back onto the attack and when Nathan was brought down outside the box Lewis stepped up to take the long range free kick. With tension building, and encouraged by the coaching staff and on looking supporters to go for goal, Lewis duly obliged and struck an unstoppable shot over wall and into bottom corner to restore the Blacks slender lead. As play once again swung back up the other end Sebastian was able to get yet another telling tackle in to keep the Blacks noses in front. With the last effort of the game, more determined play from Isaac released Emile who was yet again denied by a saving tackle. This was a tough, physical game and all the boys put a cracking shift in to secure a well fought 3-2 win. They all played well, but Sebastian was an absolute rock at the back and fully deserving of his Man of the Match award.
Thanks to Richard for refereeing.
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Match reports: Opponent: Walshaw Sports Whites Date: 03/10/2015 Venue: Heywood Sports Village Result: Won 6-0 Match report: A chilly, misty and damp morning brought an autumnal feel to an early 9am kick off on the all weather pitch at Heywood, Pennine were back to full strength as Walshaw kicked off, Early chances were limited and Walshaw were looking like the better passing side as Pennine struggled to get their own passing game together, Sebastian and Brodie were defending well so chances were limited at both ends with only Nathan going close in the early stages with a shot across the face of goal and a spectacular overhead kick which he just failed to connect with and Emile having a close range shot blocked. Changes were made at the mid-point of the first half when Samuel, Isaac and Lucas replaced Sebastian, Aaron and Emile. The Blacks gradually began to get a foothold in the game but their passing was still found wanting at times. Lewis was probing well from midfield but too often the final ball was not up to scratch. Samuel shot wide from distance following a corner before finally things clicked and a good ball out wide to Isaac found him with time and space to deliver a perfect low cross in from the right for Nathan to finish first time from close range. 1-0 to the Blacks. Walshaw were still having plenty of possession and the Pennine defence had to stay focussed for their dangerous set pieces. A corner had to be scrambled clear and Lucas had to make a couple of very timely tackles as he tracked back well to cover when the Walshaw boys had slipped the Pennine back line. Half time: 1-0 to the Blacks After some home truths at half time from Russ and David the Blacks kicked off the second half with a much better passing game. Within moments a glorious 6-pass move just failed to create a good opportunity then another passing move down the right saw Emile slipping a ball across to Isaac who buried his chance into the bottom corner for 2-0. Walshaw were still looking dangerous on the break and the Pennine defence were caught out a couple of times with only poor finishing saving the Blacks blushes. Play was still switching from end to end with a strong shot from Isaac forcing a good save from the Walshaw keeper and a snap-shot on the turn bringing the best out of Benjamin in the Pennine goal. Emile went close after drawing the goalkeeper but his shot from a tight angle was cleared just before it crossed the line. More danger at the back for Pennine was again averted by excellent covering by Lucas before Isaac broke free on the left and was tripped just as he was bearing down on the Walshaw keeper. Lucas smashed the resulting penalty high and hard giving the keeper no chance and putting Pennine 3 up. This signalled a chance for Benjamin to come out of goal with Brodie donning the gloves. Pennine were quickly back on the attack and when a goalmouth scramble resulted in the ball being half cleared, Lewis slammed home Pennine’s 4th from the edge of the box. Benjamin then broke down the left and sent a lovely diagonal ball into the area but the keeper was able to just nick it away for a corner ahead of the onrushing Lucas. Page | 9
Despite their dominance at this stage, Pennine had to guard against the quick Walshaw breaks but Nathan was relishing his new role as right wing-back and made several saving tackles before getting counter-attacks started, one of which got Benjamin through again but his left footed shot went wide. Lewis then broke free to play in Emile who prodded the ball under the Walshaw keeper for his first and Pennine’s fifth. Back up the other end, a long range effort bounced just in front of Brodie but he watched the ball and held it well. Lewis then took his chance from long range but his powerful shot cleared the bar. On the stroke of full time Emile capped proceedings when he dropped his shoulder to get past a defender and coolly finished into the bottom corner with the outside of his right foot. 6-0 to the Blacks the final score. A good game between two good footballing sides and a terrific second half performance from the boys once they had got their passing sorted. Another clean sheet, onwards and upwards! Nathan’s all-action second half display earned him today’s Man of the Match award.
Match reports: Opponent: Roach Dynamos Whites Date: 10/10/2015 Venue: Heywood Community School Result: Won 8-3 Match report: A clear, dry autumn morning in Darn Hill and another early start. Without Brodie today, Pennine kicked off up the slope but found themselves behind within a minute when they lost the ball in midfield and were unable to prevent the ball breaking to a Whites attacker who scored with a strong low shot. The Blacks were clearly struggling to get their usual passing game together, judging the weight of their passes in the long grass and against the slope. Lucas put a good ball inside to Emile but he was quickly closed down by the alert Whites keeper. Lewis then jinked inside and tried his luck from distance but his strong shot was deflected out for a Pennine corner. At the other end both Sebastian and Samuel were defending well against a physical whites attack with timely interceptions and tackles. Ben had to be alert to parry a strong angled drive for a corner then watched another similar effort go wide. Good interplay between Aaron and Lucas put Lewis in to equalise with a good low shot. Much of the game was being played out in the middle third with some good tussles involving Lewis and Emile. A move down the right saw a great ball in from Aaron half cleared, Lewis smashed the ball goalwards, but it was well saved by the Whites keeper. Lewis then used some tricky footwork to create himself some space before shooting with the outside of his right foot and finding the bottom corner off the Whites defender for his and Pennine’s second. Nathan quickly added a third with a similar shot after coming in from the left. The Whites replied with a speculative effort from long range but Benjamin was untroubled. Soon after though, a defensive mix-up with no-one wanting to get the ball clear saw the ball break out and another low shot was drilled into the bottom corner for 3-2. Aaron then broke free down the right and put a fabulous cross over but Lucas was unlucky not to be able to connect properly. Lucas then found himself clear but as he looked up to pick his spot he found the keeper playing as sweeper clearing with his feet well outside his area. Half time: 2-3 Page | 10
Half time changes saw Emile slotting into defence alongside Sebastian but despite the change, the second half started the same as the first with the Whites scoring almost immediately to level the scores at 3-3. That was to be Roach’s last goal of the morning, though, as Pennine again proved to be a second half team. With Emile, Sebastian and Samuel keeping things much tighter at the back, the Whites chances became fewer with only a couple of scares which Benjamin dealt with well. Pennine went back in front when a slick move saw Nathan feed Isaac who calmly finished. Isaac then became provider when he battled well before getting the ball across to Aaron who smashed an unstoppable volley back across the keeper and inside the far post to put the Blacks 5-3 up. Aaron then put a superb ball across from the left, but Nathan was quickly closed down by the Whites keeper. Lewis was pulling the strings in midfield and put Nathan clear but he shot narrowly wide. Isaac took over in goal and became a virtual spectator allowing Benjamin to stretch his legs up front. Benjamin was soon involved when he played a neat one-two with Nathan who’s shot was well blocked. Chances for Pennine were coming thick and fast, Benjamin’s strong shot went wide and Lewis had a cross-shot that was well held. In the move of the match Emile showed superb strength to win the ball in the left full-back position before bursting forward and shrugging off a couple of hefty challenges and feeding Lucas who provided a superb ball for Nathan to apply the finishing touch. More good work by Emile saw a chance blocked by the keeper but Lucas was on hand to put the rebound in for Pennine’s seventh. The Blacks made it 8 right at the death when Benjamin put in a strong shot from the right but the keeper only managed to palm it into Nathan’s path to complete his hat trick with a simple finish. Final score 8-3 to Pennine Blacks. Another strong second half performance from the Blacks and had they adapted their game to the playing surface earlier, they could have won by a bigger margin as the Roach keeper was probably their best player. Emile put in a suberb shift particularly in the second half when in defence and was a close call for man of the match, but Nathan edged it with his hat-trick and great forward play. Well done to all the boys – a great win.
Match reports: Opponent: Walshaw Sports Club Date: 17/10/2015 Venue: Hopwood Hall Result: Draw 2-2 Match report: It was a fresh Saturday morning at Hopwood Hall, Pennine Blacks took to the field against Walshaw Sports Club who are regarded has one of the best teams in the NBJFL. Pennine Blacks kicked off the first half without Samuel who was not feeling well, the first couple of minutes both sides were sizing up each other’s game, some excellent football was being played by both sides with both defences holding their own. Then in the fifth minute the deadlock was broken a pass from Brodie to Lucas who then played in Lewis who went past two Walshaw players before getting a shot off which took a slight deflection into the Walshaw net, Leaving Brad in the Walshaw goal stranded, Walshaw took the kick off and went straight on the attack but Pennine Page | 11
defended well Sebastian and Brodie was sweeping every ball clear and getting the ball back to the front players, then in the fithteen minute a mix up in the Walshaw defence let Nathan in to make it 2-0 to Pennine with a great finish. The next five minutes both teams had chances, also Walshaw hitting the Pennine crossbar and Ben making some good saves but on the stroke of half time Walshaw got a chance and took it leaving Ben with no chance making it 2-1 at half time. Walshaw kicked off the second half and the Blacks was still putting the pressure on in the early minutes of the half then Walshaw started to get more possession and laid siege to the Blacks goal, Every Pennine player responded with some great tackles and defended has a team has Walshaw pushed forward to get the equaliser a effort from one of the Walshaw defenders crashed against the crossbar, Pennine then pushed forward and a great run and shot from Aaron nearly put the Blacks 3-1 up but for a great save from Brad in the Walshaw goal, Walshaw continued to push forward and forced 3 back to back corners, but the Blacks still managed to hold on till with five minutes to go Walshaw got the break through to make it 2-2 in the last five minutes both teams had chances and Lewis going close for the Blacks but a 2-2 was the final result . I could of gave the Man of the Match to Ben, Seb, Brodie, Lewis, Lucas, Nathan, Aaron, Issac and Emile today has every single one of them put a top performance in so to decide I asked Paul (Walshaw Manager) he said it was Sebastian who he thought was outstanding, it was also good to see all the parents from both teams say what a good match it was well done everyone. Thanks to Richard for refereeing.
Match reports: Opponent: Milnrow Juniors Date: 24/10/2015 Venue: Milnrow Soccer Village Result: Won 5-3 Match report: Following last week's creditable 2-2 draw with potential Champions League outfit Walshaw Sports, the Blacks reconvened at a very wet and windy Milnrow Soccer Village to take on Milnrow Juniors on the Astroturf. Without Lucas and Aaron who were holidaying, the boys started with just the one sub who was Samuel. After some bib-donning by Pennine to avoid a kit clash, Milnrow kicked off and were first to create a chance which Benjamin had to be awake to tip away for a corner. Lewis replied with a long range lob which the Milnrow goalie managed to save. A superb corner from Isaac was curling in just beneath the crossbar but the Milnrow keeper tipped it over the bar. Isaac showed great skill cutting in from the left and beating his man before smashing a right foot shot against the upright. Despite having the best of the early chances, the Blacks fell behind when a good move saw a low shot give Benjamin no chance. The Blacks were really struggling to get any passing Page | 12
moves together and were guilty of giving away possession far too often. Both Emile and Lewis put shots over the bar then Isaac grabbed the Pennine equaliser when he robbed a defender on the edge of the penalty area and struck a low shot home. Around the 12 minute mark, Samuel replaced Brodie in defence. Shortly after, Lewis again tried his luck from distance and this time found the top corner with a terrific effort from just inside the opposition's half to put the Blacks in front. Milnrow were not to be written off though and Benjamin had to be quick off his line on 2 occasions to block and Sebastian made a superb last ditch tackle to prevent danger. Shortly before half time, having just had a great shot tipped onto the bar, Emile got Pennine's third when he pounced on a mistake at the back and finished well. Half time: 3-1 to Pennine.
The second half began with Brodie on for Emile. With some better passing from Pennine, the signs were good and a snap shot on the turn from Brodie was well saved and a double save from the Milnrow keeper prevented the Blacks from increasing their lead. Against the run of play, some hesitation in the Pennine defence allowed a Milnrow forward to get a shot away which Benjamin was unable to reach and Milnrow were back in the game at 2-3. It was now Milnrow who were moving the ball around much better than Pennine and as a result were putting a lot of pressure on Benjamin's goal. An excellent double save kept them at bay momentarily, but when Benjamin blocked a shot at close range the rebound was hit home to level the scores. Emile then returned to the fray in place of Isaac and Samuel took over in goal allowing Benjamin to go up front. With the Pennine passing now back to its woeful worst, chances were limited to speculative efforts from long range. At the other end Samuel did well to block a low effort and managed to get his hands on the loose ball, before more saving tackles by Brodie and Sebastian kept the scores level. As the game drew to a close, Pennine again began to get the upper hand with Benjamin shooting just wide before Emile put the Blacks back in front breaking out of midfield and hitting a strong right foot shot into the bottom corner. More chances followed as Benjamin had a good shot cleared for a corner and Lewis smashed one across the face of goal. In the final move of the match, Nathan swivelled and hit a great shot which rebounded off the bar and Benjamin was on hand to nod the ball in to make the final score 5-3 to Pennine Blacks.
Back to winning ways for the Blacks but it should have been more comfortable if they had passed the ball well, conditions and the small pitch didn't help but that was the same for both sides.
Match reports: Opponent: Walshaw Sports Club Date: 14/11/2015 Venue: Heywood Sports Village Result: Lost 3-2 Page | 13
Match report: Following the recent postponements, it was back to business for the Blacks as they took on the mighty Walshaw Sports Club again, only a few weeks since their last encounter ended in a very creditable 2-2 draw. This time the Blacks were away so made the short trip to Heywood Sports Village. A wet morning made for a slippery artificial surface and the boys also had a swirling wind to contend with as Pennine kicked off. Within the opening seconds, the Blacks lost the ball in defence which resulted in a shot from the left across the face of goal. Benjamin was only able to get his fingers to the shot and the rebound was finished off by the waiting Walshaw attacker who made no mistake from close range to put Pennine behind within the first minute. With an early lead, Walshaw looked to push on and were dominating the midfield exchanges, showing good passing and movement, in contrast to the Blacks who were slow out of the blocks and unable to get their passing together. Walshaw were first to almost every loose ball and continued on the front foot, with Sebastian and Brodie having to stifle the waves of Walshaw attacks. Chances were very limited for the Blacks, with Brodie having a speculative looping effort from just over the half way line well saved by the Walshaw keeper. A superb cross-field ball from Lewis found Nathan on the right wing whose low ball in found Emile, but the keeper was quick off his line and managed to block before Emile could get his shot away. Back up the other end and another Walshaw attack resulted in a second goal when a loose ball inside the box was expertly hooked in on the volley by the Walshaw attacker. A couple more chances for the Blacks came when Lucas found himself clear but a combination of defender and keeper kept him out, then a snap shot from Isaac was too high before the ref blew for half time. Brodie had to disappear at half time to go and lead the teams out at Spotland, so Samuel took his place in defence as Walshaw restarted the game and immediately put the Blacks under pressure. Benjamin had to be quick off his line to block as the Walshaw attacks continued. The Blacks started to pass the ball more effectively and finally got some reward when good close control by Lewis in midfield bought him enough space to fire in a terrific low shot which found the bottom corner to make the score 2-1. Undeterred, Walshaw were quickly back on the attack and Benjamin again had to be at his best to twice sprint off his line to stifle the onrushing Walshaw frontmen. Sadly the pressure finally told when Pennine lost possession from a throw in and the ball broke out wide to a Walshaw attacker who smashed an unstoppable shot inside the far post to restore the 2-goal cushion. The Blacks managed to get themselves back in it after a tactical reshuffle and change in formation as great work from Nathan released Aaron who got a good shot away which was parried by the keeper but Lucas was quick to the rebound and scored to pull the score back to 3-2. The Blacks were moving the ball much better now and as a result were putting Walshaw under considerable pressure. Another chance fell to Lucas but he was unlucky to poke the ball against the outside of the post and to safety. At the other end a quick break from Walshaw saw their attacker fire in a Page | 14
shot which forced Benjamin into a remarkable reaction save adjusting himself in mid-air to palm the ball to safety. A succession of throw ins kept Walshaw pegged back and from the resulting corner Benjamin came forward to try to snatch the equaliser, but the ball in was cleared before the referee brought proceedings to a close. No disgrace to lose by the odd goal to a very good team, but once Pennine began to pass the ball better they were easily a match for their opposition. But for being half asleep for the first 15 minutes, the game could have had a different outcome. WAKEY WAKEY BOYS!!! Lewis was awarded the Man of the Match for a good display midfield and an excellent goal.in
Match reports: Opponent: Prestwich Marauders Panthers Date: 28/11/2015 Venue: Oldham Academy North Result: Won 5-2 Match report: Following the postponement last week due to the freezing conditions, the rearranged fixture got the green light and so the Blacks were back in action on the all-weather pitch against Prestwich Marauders Panthers in a 6-a-side match due to the Panthers depleted numbers. Pennine, captained by Lucas, kicked off and were quick to get the ball moving well, constructing some good, and quick passing play which has been missing from recent performances. The rewards were instant as their early play forced the Panthers into conceding a throw on the left, which Lewis latched onto and hit a great low shot on the run which nestled in the bottom corner giving the keeper no chance and putting the Blacks into a good early lead. The Blacks continued to pass the ball well and totally dominated possession. It wasn’t long before more good terrific passing put Lewis in the clear again and he hit a sweet shot into the top corner to make the score 2-0. Around the 13 minute mark Nathan, Samuel, Lucas and Brodie made way for Emile, Aaron, Isaac and Sebastian. There followed a spell of Panthers pressure, but Sebastian and Emile defended well and Benjamin’s goal was hardly threatened other than a low snap shot which he easily gathered. On their next venture forward though, the Panthers took advantage of hesitation in the Blacks defence and when the ball wasn’t cleared a good shot into the roof of the net put the Panthers back in the game at 2-1. Undeterred the Blacks got straight back into their stride and continued with their passing game, creating more chances. Lewis just missed out on a first half hat-trick when his strong shot was palmed away for a corner and a low shot in from the right from Aaron was just across the face of goal. In a similar chance moments later, Aaron hit the target and despite the Panthers keeper getting a leg to it, the ball hit the net to send the Blacks into the break at 3-1. From the restart the Blacks continued to pass the ball well and soon extended their lead when another great passing move saw Nathan release Emile who managed to hit both posts with a great shot and reacted superbly to be first to the rebound to put the Blacks 4-1 up. With a comfortable lead, the management duo decided to make some more changes, giving Benjamin a chance to get more involved in the game up front, Isaac taking over in goal. Chances kept coming for the Blacks, with Lewis shooting just wide, Benjamin having a half-chance beaten out for a corner and Aaron saw a volley on the turn go wide. Lewis then slipped a precise ball wide to Aaron who picked his spot in the top corner with a superb shot for his second. Straight from the restart, the
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Panthers caught the Blacks on the back foot and managed to pull one back with an excellent low shot. There was another scare at the back shortly after but the shot went wide before Benjamin brought a fantastic save out of the Panthers keeper just before the final whistle blew. This was a much improved performance over recent weeks and more like how the boys were playing at the beginning of the season – passing well, moving into space and creating chances. Even when the passes didn’t reach their intended target it was encouraging to see ALL the boys trying to do the right thing. All the boys were worthy man of the matches today and Russ and David must have been delighted to see all their hard work on passing in training beginning to pay off again. Thanks once again to Richard for refereeing.
Match reports: Opponent: Radcliffe Juniors Tigers Date: 12/12/2015 Venue: Oldham Academy North Result: Won 5-0 Match report: On a very wet and windy and not to mention very cold morning at Oldham Academy North, The Blacks played Radcliffe Tigers we started off with a Ben, Broadie, Seb ,Emile, Nathan Lucas and Aaron with Lewis(captain) Sam and Isaac on the bench. The Blacks kicked off the first half and for the first 15 minutes both teams was getting use to the poor conditions, after that the Blacks started putting the pressure on Radcliffe, who defended well and their goalkeeper made some excellent saves to keep the scores level, but then in the 20th minute Broadie played a great pass to Nathan who turned and left the defender standing then played a great pass to Lucas who put the ball into the roof of the net to make it 1-0 to the Blacks. Some more outstanding play from the Blacks an Broadie was moving the ball well from the back to the forward players who were denied by Radcliffe goalkeeper time after time half time 1-0. Radcliffe kicked off the second half and the Blacks put them under pressure straight from the off a great tackle from Isaac to win the ball of one of their players then he played a great pass to Emile who shot left there keeper no chance 2-0 to the Blacks, Within minutes of the re-start a ball played by Seb to Emile who charged his way through the Radcliffe team to score a fine solo goal to make it 3-0, All the boys was now really laying siege to the Radcliffe goal but again some great defending and some fine save`s from the Radcliffe goalkeeper kept the score to 3-0 but with only eight minutes remaining a great chip from Lewis found the top corner to make it 4-0 to the Blacks both Russ and Dave asked Lewis if it was a cross or a shot, but Lewis replied he definitely went for the shot with a big smile on his face. In the final minutes after soaking up even more pressure Radcliffe defence was breached with the goal of the match some great movement an passing from the boys with Sam playing the ball to Lewis who then passed it to Nathan and Nathan played in Lucas who crossed the ball into the box in which Emile caught the ball on the volley and on the turn to leave the goalkeeper standing and 5-0 to the Blacks and a hat rick for Emile, straight after the restart the final whistle went and a good 5-0 win.
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In poor conditions the team played really well and Radcliffe came and gave a good show but the Blacks was just too strong for them our choice for the MoM award a hard one this morning both Brodie and Emile was outstanding today, but Broadie just edged it with some outstanding play and composure at the back even a great save when he put the gloves on when he replaced Ben in goal. Well played everyone today Big thanks for Richard for refereeing...
Match reports: Opponent: Chadderton Park Eagles Date: 09/01/2016 Venue: Oldham Academy North Result: Won 6-1 Match report: The Blacks ushered in the New Year with a “Home” cup match against Chaddy Park Eagles with Isaac wearing the Captain’s armband and a full complement of players fresh from their Christmas break. The relentless Oldham rain made for a super-slick pitch which meant any passing needed to be right on the money and fortunately all the boys were on form and were soon displaying a master class of controlled passing football. The opening exchanges were fairly even with the opposition also coping well with the conditions and making it clear they weren’t there to make up the numbers. Lewis collected a throw in on the right and swivelled hitting a lovely lofted volley on the turn which went just wide. A sweeping move which started with Samuel at the back and saw the whole team working the ball forward eventually Lucas saw his effort just wide. The team finally got their rewards for their efforts when another slick move put the Chaddy defence under severe pressure and the defender put the ball into his own net when trying to clear. The Blacks looked to increase their lead and piled on the pressure with an amazing spell of pinball in the Chaddy penalty area with just about every Blacks player having an effort on goal blocked by the resolute Chaddy defence. At the other end the Blacks got caught on the break but Lucas showed superb determination backtracking to stop the attack and when the ball broke, Ben pulled off a good save to keep the Blacks in front at half time. Pennine kicked off the second half and were quickly back into their stride, Emile was pulling the strings in midfield and worked a great ball out wide to Aaron whose shot was well saved. In the next move Aaron showed great determination to win the ball and feed Isaac whose shot was parried but Emile was on hand to pounce on the loose ball and finished well to double the Blacks lead. Lewis came close again with a long range shot following a corner which went just wide. Emile got his second when he superbly rolled his defender to create enough space to get a shot away which found the bottom corner. With Sebastian, Samuel and Brodie keeping things nice and tight at the back, the Blacks were able to continue to pressurise the Chaddy keeper who was playing well but was beaten again when Emile turned provider feeding a lovely ball out to Aaron who finished well from an angle. Emile was again involved in Pennine’s fifth when he won the ball in the middle and fed Nathan on the right whose angled drive found the far corner. Lewis tried his luck again from long range but the Chaddy keeper tipped his superb dipping shot over the bar. Emile took over in goal to give Ben a run out and he responded with his customary goal coolly finishing after being well set up by Nathan.
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Sadly the last action of the game saw the Blacks lose their clean sheet when a mix up in midfield meant a quick break by Chaddy and a shot into the corner which gave Emile no chance. This, however, could not take the gloss off what was an excellent all round performance against a very good team and a keeper in excellent form. All the boys put in a massive amount of effort and application and the whole team deserved their collective man of the match award. Some great passing today, well done lads and well done to Russ and David for keeping everyone so focussed in difficult conditions. Thanks to Richard for swapping his waders for footy boots and reffing today’s match.
Match reports: Opponent: Middleton Lads Reds Date: 16/01/2016 Venue: Oldham Academy North Result: Lost 3-1 Match report:
With Lucas unavailable due to sickness, the remaining boys assembled at what is fast becoming their new “Home” and waited eagerly for the referee’s decision as to whether the game could go ahead due to the overnight frost. Thankfully the green light was given and the game got underway against strong opposition in the shape of Middleton Lads Reds. The Reds were quickly into their stride and coped well with the slippery conditions, connecting with their passes more often than not. In contrast the Blacks struggled to get a foot on the ball in the early stages. Despite this however, and somewhat against the run of play, the best of the early chances fell to the Blacks when good work from Brodie and Isaac released Nathan on the right and he was unlucky to see his powerful shot rebound off the post. This prompted a bit of goalmouth pinball but when the ball finally broke to Emile on the edge of the box, he applied a cool finish into the bottom corner with the outside of his right foot to put the Blacks in front. Isaac was then set up by Emile but shot wide under pressure. Lewis then tried one of his trademark snap-shots but it cleared the bar. The Reds were still moving the ball around well and when a low shot came in from the right, Ben was unable to hold it and the rebound was put away to level the scores. The Blacks then fell behind when another break down the Blacks left saw a low ball in across the face of goal, leaving an easy chance for the unmarked Reds attacker to finish at the far post. The Reds were well on top by now and further increased their lead when a loose ball fell kindly to the Reds danger man and he finished emphatically into the roof of the Blacks net to send Blacks into the break trailing 3-1. The second half began more evenly with chances at both ends. Ben saved well low to his right when under pressure and at the other end Nathan shot just wide when put clear. Nathan then created his own opportunity when chasing down what looked like a lost cause but after beating the Reds keeper to the loose ball, his shot was charged down. Lewis had another long range effort which went just wide before Nathan had a superb effort on goal, a curling shot which was heading for the bottom corner but saw the Reds keeper pull off a great save. It looked as though it wasn’t going to be the Blacks day in front of goal. There
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were a couple more scares at the back for the Blacks when a poor clearance was hit from the half way line and went just wide. The Blacks crossbar was then rattled twice in quick succession before Sebastian mopped up the danger and the game came to a close when Ben pulled off a great double save and Brodie cleared. Stalemate in the second half, but the match finished 3-1 to the Reds. The boys did well today, particularly in the second half when they started to pass the ball better and create chances against a very strong team on a difficult surface. All the boys put in a good shift, none more so than Isaac who didn’t stop battling for his team and was well worth today’s Man of the Match award. Many thanks again to Richard for refereeing.
Match reports: Opponent: Whitworth Valley Greens Date: 23/01/16 Venue: Oldham Academy North Result: Won 9-1 Match report: The Blacks were back to full strength as they faced Whitworth Valley Greens in their third consecutive “Home” match. Aaron was Captain for the day as the Blacks kicked off on a (relatively) mild Oldham morning. The Blacks had to survive an early spell of Greens pressure which resulted in a shot just wide of Ben’s goal, but soon went ahead when Nathan was put clear and drew the keeper who charged him down, but Aaron was on hand to put away the loose ball. They went close again when Emile hit the post with a great shot after some lovely one-touch passing involving Samuel and Aaron. The Blacks’ second came soon after when Lewis latched onto a loose ball on the edge of the box and lashed his first time shot into the bottom left corner. A lovely passing move from back to front found Aaron on the left, he cut inside and hit a good shot which went narrowly wide. Some great passing moves were happening for the Blacks with Lewis and Aaron at the heart of everything. Aaron hit his second when some great hold up play by Nathan created space for Aaron who’s first shot was saved but was quick to the rebound and finished for 3-0. Aaron then did well to keep a long ball in and put a good ball across the face of goal but no-one was on hand to provide the finishing touch. After some mid-half changes, Brodie was soon into the action and did well to clear the danger from a rare Whitworth attack. As play quickly switched back to the other end, Lewis continued to orchestrate things in midfield and released Nathan who shot well but saw the Greens keeper save well with his feet. Nathan did manage to get on the scoresheet with a deft chip into the corner from close range when he found himself unmarked in front of goal as a good ball was delivered in from the right. The Greens did manage to get on the scoresheet themselves when a long-range free kick was struck well and while Ben managed to save the shot, the loose ball was prodded home to make the score 4-1 to the Blacks. At the other end a clever jinking run by Lucas saw him cut inside from the right but his low shot was saved by the Greens keeper. Some sublime skill from Isaac on the left had him leaving 2 defenders for dead but his ball inside was smothered by the Greens defence. Another one touch passing move produced a strong long range shot from Lewis which looked all the way in but was palmed onto the crossbar and over by the keeper. The resulting corner was expertly delivered by Lucas where Isaac was waiting at the far post to guide a lovely header into the bottom corner. The half was brought to a close when a long range effort from the Greens was on target but was well watched and smothered by Ben.
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As Nathan departed to watch Millwall beat Chesterfield, changes were made with Lewis taking over in goal and Benjamin donning a red shirt to lead the line up front. Ben was straight into the action when Aaron made a good run down the left and put the ball across but Ben’s low shot was well saved by the keeper. Ben had another good shot soon after but found the side netting. Ben was involved again when his good run and low ball across the goal evaded everyone but Lucas did well to keep the ball in play and cut it back to Emile who finished first time to make the score 6-1. A quick throw down the line by Samuel gave Emile time and space to hit a great shot which the Greens goalie parried, but Ben was on hand to slot in the rebound with his left foot. His second followed soon after when a great through ball from Isaac released him and he struck another left footed shot sweetly into the bottom corner. Left footers were the order of the day now when Ben made a strong run through the middle then released Aaron who found the bottom corner with his left foot to complete his hat-trick and make the score 9-1. Wave after wave of Pennine attacks kept coming with Brodie now pulling the strings in midfield, Samuel and Sebastian keeping things tight at the back on the rare occasions of the Greens threatening Lewis’s goal. Ben was playing the bustling centre-forward role with relish, reminiscent of Alan Shearer in his prime. He came close again when his near-post diving header from another of Lucas’s pinpoint corners was just wide. Samuel then sent a through ball into Isaac who squared the ball into Ben’s path but his shot went just wide. Samuel tried his luck from distance but was off target, then had a similar effort which was goalbound but Ben’s attempt to divert the shot past the keeper with a flick header sent the ball wide. Another effort by Ben was struck so well that it hit the post and went out for a throw-in!. In the final attempt to add to their goals tally, Emile burst through the middle and rode two robust tackles before unleashing a powerful low shot which was well held by the Greens keeper. Final score: 9-1 to Pennine. All the boys played their part in a cracking result but more importantly an excellent performance with some fabulous passing moves throughout the game all over the pitch. Aaron produced the perfect captain’s performance, leading from the front, capped with a hat-trick and was worthy man of the match. Thanks again to Richard for refereeing.
Match reports: Opponent: Middleton Lads Reds Date: 31/01/2016 Venue: Oldham Academy North Result: Lost 8-3 Match report: The Blacks took on Middleton Lads Reds for the second time in the space of a fortnight. Although the venue was the same, this was an away match, so Richard was spared refereeing duties on a bitterly cold morning. Just like the previous encounter, this was very much a game of two halves for the Blacks. They started fairly brightly and were proving to be a decent match for the opposition for the first 10 minutes or so with neither side creating any real chances of note and most of the action taking place in the middle of the park. That changed however, when Benjamin pulled off a magnificent save to tip a piledriver onto the bar but Pennine were unlucky when the rebound ended up in the back of the net despite Sebastian’s best efforts to clear. This prompted the Blacks heads to drop and for the rest of the half they lacked any sort of aggression or drive and seemed frightened of both the opposition and the ball. They went on to concede a further 5 goals up to half time and whilst the opposition are doubtless very good, much more could have been done to prevent the Blacks going into the break 6 goals down. They did create a couple of half-chances and corners but didn’t produce an effort of note on target. A poor half for the Blacks, nowhere near the standard needed to be competitive at this level.
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Following a confidence boosting half time talking-to by Russ and David, the Blacks started the second half with far more purpose and application. This paid dividends almost straight from the kick off when Aaron broke clear and got a good shot off but the Reds goalkeeper saved, Nathan was quick to the rebound and put the ball into the onion bag, despite a strong challenge from the Reds defender. The Reds were quick to reply though, when a shot in from the right was too strong for Ben and the ball found its way into the bottom corner. Not to be demoralised, the Blacks continued to press forward and Emile had a good snapshot from a well worked corner, but it was too high. Emile then won the ball well wide on the right and squared the ball inside where Isaac was waiting to apply a strong finish and get the Blacks second. The Reds were still very dangerous on the ball and Ben had to be at his best to tip a strong shot away for a corner. At the other end, goalmouth pinball saw several Blacks shots blocked before Brodie took over from Ben in goal which signalled the customary goal from Ben with almost his first touch up front as Lucas played a fine defence-splitting pass forward and Ben slotted the ball through the keeper’s legs. The Reds, however still had another goal in them and hit a good shot on the turn which Brodie was unable to keep out. Final score 8-3 to the Reds. The Blacks won the second half 3-2 and fully deserved to as they played with a good amount of determination and effort. The damage was done, however, in the first half when they didn’t turn up and put in an unacceptable performance. They proved today they can match and better the top teams, they just need to believe in themselves more and not be frightened of anyone. Ben was today’s man of the match after making some fine saves whilst in goal to keep the scoreline respectable and scoring when he came out. Well done!
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