Rusthall Football Club
Match Reports - 0708 Season
TABLE OF RESULTS 2007 / 2008
|
Team |
P |
W |
D |
L |
F |
A |
|
Rusthall Hawks |
22 |
16 |
1 |
5 |
83 |
25 |
Tonbridge Jamboree 2008
Hawks Won 3
games
- 2.1
- 1.0
-9.0
lost 2.0 and drew 1.1.
Overall a good team performance with the only team beating us, which was Chipstead who are a league higher with us coming second in our matches overall.
Hasting Camber Tournament 2008
Team: Billy and Adam –
Strikers
Michael, Joshua D and
Oliver – Midfield
Tiana and Joshua –
Defence
Jack –
Keeper
Match 1 Rusthall Hawks v Danson Boys
Danson Boys were a strong and skilful team who were matched by a superb defence and midfield display by Rusthall. Rusthall were growing in confidence and with a minute before the end of full time Joshua U, came from wide into the box and struck for goal with it just going in the right hand corner of the goal. With little time remaining Rusthall Won 1.0.
Match 2 Rusthall Hawks v Hastings Hawks
Hastings Hawks were not as good as Danson Boys which showed us move further up the pitch with attempts on goal from all over the park, but it was our loaned striker from the under 8’s who came up with a superb strike past the Hastings goal to made it 1.0 also close to the end giving us, win two of the tournament.
Match 3 Rusthall Hawks v Junior Sports
Rusthall had no time to celebrate or recover from match 2 as it was straight back to back matches for us against a strong skilful and well organised Junior Sports. We were outplayed in virtually all positions and our heads were down making it a 5.0 defeat.
Match 4 Rusthall Hawks v Lingfield
Lingfield were a good team but we gave a lot back and did well with this team to lose by just 2 goals. Final Score 2.0 to Lingfield
Overall Points for the Hawks team were 6 which allowed us to go into the Semi finals against Junior Sports (the team who had beaten us 5.0) we came out fighting well actually defending but what a defensive display with shots saved off the post goal line clearances 8 corners against us, a thrilling match for all to watch with the score 0.0 at half and full time. Penalties.
Penalties were taken by
- Joshua
U
- Tiana
- Adam
Joshua missed one and scored one, and this was repeated with Tiana, Junior Sport scored and then missed the goal twice, this all came down to a golden goal which cruelly Adam’s pen was saved which they subsequently went to score their pen.
Overall, an amazing triumph for the team to reach their first Semi finals and without Callum, who will be missing for next season, which the whole team wish him all the best in the Tandridge league.
Special well done to Jack who was not only superb in goal, but had to endure the penalties, a top class performance.
Rusthall v Jarvis Brook: Final games of the season: 19.4.08
Game 1: final score 9:0
Callum 6, Billy 1, Michael 2
Team:
Josh U,
Callum up front
Dan, Josh D
(subs by Michael in second half) midfield
Tiana and
Billy defence
Jack in
goal
First Half: 5:0 to The Hawks
Rusthall immediately went on the attack and within minutes Callum had found the back of the Jarvis Brook net , swiftly making a hat trick, taking the score to 3;0 ,setting the tone of the triumphs to come. A mighty cross from Tiana led to a scrabble between the defending visitors and their confusion transformed her boot into an own goal by the beleaguered Jarvis team. The Hawks played well; controlling the field and good passes at all levels gave Billy the opportunity to convert the score line into 5: 0 by the half time whistle
Second half: 9:0 to The Hawks
The Hawk, buoyed by the first half triumph went into attack and Callum narrowly missed a goal in the first seconds of the second half .Josh made a second goal bid but was thwarted. No less than 3 corners were taken by Tiana but the goalie held on grimly to the ball when it threatened to cross the line. The reprieve was short lived however and Callum gave no second chances when he struck home and added to the score line in the first 5 minutes; 6:0 to Rusthall, 4 of them to Callum at this stage. Michael came on in place off Josh D and started play in midfield. Josh U made an energetic run the full length of the pitch but was stopped just on the goal line; Callum made the most of the rebound and found the back of the net : 7:0 to the Hawks. A rare attack by Jarvis Brook took the Hawks midfield and defence by surprise but Jack, bored until now, was keen to act and came forward, grabbing the ball and killing the attack dead. A swiftly taken goal kick by Jack put The Hawks straight back into attack and led to a goal line scramble and a free kick to Rusthall. Michael was keen to make his mark and did, right in the back of the Jarvis net, taking the score to a clean 8:0. A final surge of energy from the increasingly rattled and ill tempered visitors led to a run into the Rusthall half. Billy made an excellent blocking tackle, turning the ball to Dan, who in turn passed it to Michael, then onto Josh and a final onslaught from Callum. The Hawks turned the Jarvis attack into an end to end Hawks attack, finishing the game in the way they had started: with mastery and a final goal from Michael; final score 9:0
Game 2: Rusthall v Jarvis Brook : Final score 4; 1 to the Hawks
Josh D 1, Billy 2, Josh u 1
Team
Callum and
Billy up front ( Callum in defence , Billy mid field in second half)
Michael and
Josh D mid field ( both moved up front second half)
Tiana and
Josh U in defence ( Dan on in second half)
Jack in goal
First Half : 2:1 to The Hawks
An early big boot from Tiana started The Hawks off strongly and the Michael and Josh D in midfield kept the play in the Jarvis Brooks half. Excellent passes between Michael, Josh D, Callum and Billy kept the play moving , the pace up and pressure on the visitors Josh D was the first to get the ball past the goal line , making the score 1;0 to The Hawks Not to be outdone, Billy took a loose ball and sent it flying home to the back of the Jarvis net.
This Jarvis team though played well and with good spirit under pressure and tried to take control of the Hawks half. Josh U had other plans and made a lovely stop on a charging attack . Tiana claimed the pass and a clean kick to Michael narrowly missed the post. Callum had no qualms about seizing both the initiative and the ball, taking the strike for another goal :3:0 to The Hawks. Michael was keen to act in midfield and took a lovely mid air kick of a ball on the turn from Jarvis Brook, his shot was on target but was well saved by the Jarvis goalie.
Jarvis continued to play with spirit , spurred on by some excellent coaching from the sidelines . Their joint efforts well deserved the goal that they earned just before the half time whistle: end of half time: 2; 1 to The Hawks
Second Half : final score 4:1
An early surge by Jarvis was stopped by Callum who worked incredibly hard in defence ,despite it not being his natural position , throughout the second half , stifling the sometime threat to the Hawks goal and earning the praise of the Jarvis coach in the process. The play moved evenly between both the Jarvis and Hawks end and the game was well balanced . Josh U made an excellent blocking tackle and converted it to a goal run, only stopped short of the end target by a line save by the Jarvis goalie. Dan had a second try, also thwarted by an excellent save. Josh U made a superb solo run from The Hawks half, taking the ball into the Jarvis end and finding the corner of the Jarvis net . score to 3:1 to the Hawks
Jarvis responded with a good run , passing through the Hawks midfield and defence but unable to get past Jack who had tracked the ball and saw its pace and direction. A swiftly taken goal kick from Jack ( whose boot strength has increased as the season has gone on) sent the ball firmly up to Billy up front . Billy went straight for goal and made the score 4;1 to Rusthall. The ball returned to the centre and Josh U took a good cross but wasn’t able to get past the Jarvis goalie. Michael made another spirited attack, again saved on the line. Jarvis got the ball past The Hawks by some keen passing shots but Callum moved well to stop it in defence by some firm but fair tackles noted and praised by the Jarvis coach A Jarvis Brook corner looked threatening but Tiana, yet again, waited and paused but then took a well timed tackle to keep the score line safe. Tiana, Callum and Jack worked well as a defence package and the final score saw no more Jarvis goals despite a concerted and spirited response from the visitors.
This was a spirited match with good team work by both sides. The Hawks deserved the win but their opponents played well and fairly and kept up the pace despite the score line as it turned against them
Manager
Comments:
Well what a
game to end the season. Over all this season we have out played nearly every
team, which I think, and I hope Crowboruogh and district league believe we can
move to the higher group. It has been an
amazing season from the previous season, which it is credit to the team
for playing consistent good football from goal to attack. When we started this
season we had a new goal keeper, Tiana in defence who had just had a few
training sessions and one tournament who has been superb in defence, Joshua as
usual has make a huge impact in defence but also over the last few games has
been superb as a forward. The midfield of Jousha D, Michael and Oliver have had
to endure changes throughout this season due to Mungo’s accident, but have
thanks to a growing confience from Michael, Joshua D’s superb throw ons,
personally I think he has the best throw on in the league, and Oliver who has
after coming out of goal shown he can not only stop attacks but create chances
for his team mates on the pitch. Billy has grown in strength and ability and is
a superb tackler of the ball but also creates a lot of goals and towards the
end of the season is scoring more and more. Callum, is as always, a prolific
goal scorer which he is now showing more opportunities for his team mates.
Dan has come into the team due to the falcons team shrinking in size and has helped us out this season.
It has been a pleasure to coach you all this season, and am looking forward to the tournaments this summer and next season, which I am sure will be a harder test for us.
The player picked their player of the season, with a small majority going to Jack.
Players Player of the season : Jack
Personally Jack who has not been in goal before the start of the season has been superb and games that were tight he has secured us the win on many occasions
Keep it up
team.
Mark Sykes
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Matchreport: THE HAWKS: 5th April 2008-04-07
Game 1; The Hawks v East Grinstead Meads
Final score 11: 0 to the Hawks
Billy 1, Michael 2, Callum 8
Team: Callum/ Billy Up front, Michael (then Josh D) midfield, Tiana/ Josh U in defence ( Jack having a run in the second half), Jack in Goal ( Josh U giving Jack some run time out in second half)
First Half 6:0 to The Hawks at half time
Rusthall launched an immediate attack showing early promise of the energy and excellent team work that was to became the hall mark of their game. Callum scored swiftly and an opportunistic break from Billy narrowly missed adding a second goal to the tally. A brief attacking spurt from The Meads was robustly snuffed out by Josh U as the Meads were outplayed in defence and midfield. Michael seized a loose ball and headed it straight for the net boosting the score to 3 ;0. Some excellent passing play between Josh U, Tiana and Billy was finished off by Michael who was superb in midfield; fighting for the ball from the Meads and scoring again. Callum was hungry to add to the score line and a fierce shot was narrowly saved by the beleaguered Meads Goalie. Michael continued with support and pace in midfield with Tiana and Josh U as eager back up; all were generous with passes up front leading to a narrow miss again by Callum. Billy picked up the pace when it seemed to be frantic enough and made a break for a goal, crushing the midfield and defence before beating the goalie. The Meads were already 4 :0 down and were outclassed in all areas. Callum added two more goals to the score line making the half time score 6; 0 to The Hawks
Second Half
To save Jack from dying of boredom and with a win in safe view, Jack was taken from goal and placed in defence, and Josh U gamely took over the yellow jersey. Josh D replaced Michael. The Meads came out trying hard but their early pace ebbed away as Tiana intercepted their break and hoofed it from the Hawks end of the pitch to the Meads ,forcing the defence to scramble around in desperation to prevent a full pitch length goal from Tiana’s mighty boot. Callum seized the opportunity and hit the post first time around but grabbed a miss kicked corner shot from the Meads to turn it into another goal. Jack made up for his enforced inactivity as The Hawks gaolie and added a surge of energy to the teams defence, taking out a Meads player by a determined tackle which, legitimate though it was, added more tears to the Meads woes by reducing their field by one as the player had unwisely chosen not to wear shin pads! Michael stepped forward to play as subs for the Meads. The game continued apace, the Hawks were relentless in attack and put pressure even on Michael, leading to a miss hit from which Callum scored (Thanks Michael!). A rare attack from the Meads was snuffed out by excellent defence work from Billy and Jack. The Meads were crushed and opportunities for goals a rose a plenty which were eagerly seized by the midfield allowing Callum to over run the defence and goalie to add to the score line. One last response from the Meads was smothered by Jack with another vigorous run and tackle, passing the ball to the safety of Tiana’s booting kick. In the second half Callum added a mighty 5 goals to the score line , leaving it at 11:0 but the team members all played their part in a confident and skilful performance from them all.
It was a joy to watch.
Final score 11:0
Game 2; The Hawks v Ashurst
Final score: 6:0 to the Hawks
Josh U 1, Callum 2, Billy 2, Josh D 1
The Hawks team: Billy and Callum up front, Josh D / Michael Midfield, Tiana and Josh U in defence, Jack in goal
Ashurst were a team of 4 with Martha and Bailey (Hawks team) adding strength and skill to their depleted numbers.
First Half ; 3: 0 at half time to The Hawks
Ashurst made a strong initial attack and tried to convert a corner into an early goal but were thwarted by Michael. Rusthall made the most of the lull in Ashurst's attack to turn the failed sally into the Hawks half and Callum took a swift goal. Rusthall couldn’t afford to be complacent at the early lead as the play was faster and more even than in the Hawks first game and moved freely between both halves initially. Ashurst responded and drove the play towards the Hawks end, taking a corner and making a strong shot at goal only to be stopped short by Tianna and Josh U who blocked their response. Bailey (playing for the opposition) made an attack on goal but it went wide. Rusthall responded, returned to the play to the Ashurst end and Callums shot on the net was narrowly saved. Play moved back to the Rusthall end and a strong advance by Ashurst broke through our midfield and defence and seemed on target for a smashing goal… but Jack lifted his game and made a superb full stretch leap to save the gaol, denying Ashurst the chance of an equalizer.
Tiana made a superb strong kick up the pitch to pass to Callum who responded to the increased pace by taking the ball back to Ashurst and put in firmly in the back of their net; 2:0 to The Hawks. Josh D made another attempt on goal shortly after and was prevented from adding to the score line only by an excellent save from the Ashurst goalie. Play swept back to Rusthalls end and a desperate attempt at goal by Ashurst was ended decisively by a save from jack. Some excellent mid field play by Rusthall and a mid air kick by Josh to Billy ended the first half in superb form as Billy caught the pass at full speed and directed the ball over the goalies head landing top end in the back of the Ashurst net; score at half time 3:0 to the Hawks
Second half ; 6:0 to The Hawks
The team formation changed: Josh D moving up front, Callum moving to defence . Josh’s early shot at goal in his new position was saved by the goalies feet. Ashurst took a corner intercepted by Josh U who turned it into a strong run with the team passing the ball well .Ashurst could only block the surge by kicking the ball off field. Tiana took the shot, passed to Josh D who turned it towards Ashurst end and scored making the tally 4:0 to The Hawks.
Rusthall were moving smoothly with excellent co ordination shown by fluid play from defence to midfield to attack. Ashurst’s goal kick to safety was intercepted by Billy who chipped it back to the net and claimed a fabulous opportunistic goal to make it 5;0 Rusthall were fired up and Tiannas big kick had enough power to nearly make a goal from mid field. Josh D took up the opportunity she had created but the ball hit the post and his attempt on the rebound went just wide of the goal. The Hawks continued to force the play forward and Josh D was fouled as he went for gaol. A penalty was awarded, Josh D took it…. And scored
Ashurst made a spirited attempt to respond and may have expected the defence and Jack to be caught of guard. If so they were wrong. A strong attack on goal was saved by diving save by Jack. Ashurst took the corner and for a moment looked dangerous but Jack controlled his area and was there to meet the Ashurst kick driving it off pitch with a strong kick. A second corner was taken by Ashurst and again cleared by Jack. A THIRD corner was taken and again the Rusthall defence held firm, determined not to sully their score sheet over the two games and defying any tram to score against them
Final score 6:0
Man of the match: Michael
Manager comments:
Firstly, well done for scoring the most we
have even scored in a game beating our 9.0 score line early on in the season.
Everyone was alert and up for the game, and our pressure suppressed the slightest of chances from the Meads game.
The Ashurst Wood game was a harder game, but I think that the Rusthall players on their team, were the toughest tests for us. Personally I thought Martha was superb for their team. A superb all round effort from all, I would once again like to thank Jo for the match report again, and Michael for giving the most effort I have ever seen, and scoring twice.
Callum once again even with a bad foot? Scoring so many goals deserves a special mention, Billy for scoring 2 in each game, Joshua D for scoring a blinder and keeping the midfield in order, Tiana for once again being their at the right place at the right time, Jousha U for his superb ball control skills and scoring a fantastic penalty in the second game and Jack as always being the ever vigilant presence in goal.
This brings our total goals this season so far to 70. Wow, what a change from seasons before. Keep it up guys.
Mark Sykes
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Rusthall Hawks’s v Ridgewaye: 15.3.07
Game 1
The team:
Defence Josh
U and Tiana
Midfield: Josh
D and Oliver / Daniel/ Michael
Upfront: Callum
and Billy
Goalkeeper:
Jack
First half
The pace was swift with The Hawks initially on attack but having to mount a swift response to a Ridgewaye surge. Josh U made a big break taking the ball clean up the pitch side. Ridgewaye countered but were thwarted by an excellent tackle by Josh D. Callum made a run at goal but his attempt was saved by the keeper. The Hawks kept up the pace but had a tendency to chase the ball as a mass rather than keeping to positions. This enabled Ridgeway to break through twice: the first surge was stopped in its tracks by a hearty tackle by Josh U and Tiana backed it up with a mighty hoof to kick the ball out to touch. The Hawks were unlucky second time around as a concerted attacking front by Ridgway led to a strong onslaught, Jack saved the first attempt but the ball couldn’t be got to safety and the resulting scramble allowed Ridgwaye to find the goal corner: 1:0 to Ridgwaye. The Hawks looked a little flustered. Some great individual play was shown but the team didn’t play to position until Tiana hoofed the ball half way up the pitch narrowly missing the goal, Callum was tantalizingly near converting it but just couldn’t turn the ball in time . That attack galvanized the team. The Hawks fought hard to reclaim the goal down. Tiana and Callum made a number of goal strikes and they looked dangerous but the goalie was on his mettle as was the Ridgeway defence and the Hawks were pushed back. Jack made an energetic save but at half time and the game still seemed within sight of The Hawks
Second Half
Ridgewaye started on the attack with vigour and made the most of a breach in the midfield and defence to snatch a goal: 2:0 to Ridgwaye. They took over The Hawks half with zeal and Jack made an instinctive dive and smothered the ball to stop a third getting past him. Ridgwaye occupied Rusthalls half and Jack saved three more strikes which had got past The Hawks beleaguered defence, hard though they were working. Callum saw an opportunity to take revenge and converted a strong run to a fantastic goal: Score 2: 1 to Ridgewaye. Ridgwaye responded and Jack again showed why he is a safe pair of hands. The pace was fast and Rusthall went on the attack but the goals were elusive. Josh U made some excellent tackles and was a sterling defender allowing the play to return to The Hawks with some lovely passes between Daniel and Michael showing what good team work can do. Tiana backed them up with gusto and her strong safety kicks made Ridgwaye take notice. The game ended with a narrow win to Ridgwaye but The Hawks were more focused by the end of the match and tried to make the most of the dying minutes with Callum narrowly missing a last strike.
Finalscore: 2: 1 to Ridgewaye
Game 2
Defence:
Tiana and Josh U
Midfield:
Oliver and Josh D
Up front:
Callum and Billy
Jack in
goal
Reserves:
Michael (substituted for Billy) and Daniel
First Half
Ridgwaye started the attack and Jack showed early promise with a diving save to the play focused on Rusthalls half and the defence had to work hard. Josh U made an excellent tackle that stopped The Ridgewaye short and it marked the beginning of a strong attack by The Hawks. Tiana made the most of a corner and tackles by Callum and Oliver kept the play in The Ridgwaye’s half. The Hawks were playing well as a team and the ball chasing that had hindered their play in the first game was a long way from the co ordinated efforts they made in this set up. Callum tried hard to find the net. To add some new energy Billy came off to allow Michael a run at the opposition and showed his mettle with a strong tackle within minutes of being on the pitch. Callum saw an opportunity to take the ball and rammed it into the Ridgwaye net: score: 1; 0 to The Hawks.
Oliver, Michael and Josh U made a great play in midfield and repelled a strong counter attack by the visitors with Jock having to show his mettle again by a big leap and double handed push off of ball that would otherwise have been a sure equalizing goal. A second attempt form a corner was repelled by Josh D who showed strong tactical sense by driving the ball off pitch to safety and gained time for the Hawks to reform.
Second Half
Billy and Oliver came off: on the field the Hawks now had Callum Josh D. Josh U, Tiana, Daniel, Micheal and Jack in goal
Ridgwaye started on the attack again by Tianas classic big kick cleared a dangerous ball Billy came on and replaced Daniel and swiftly mounted an attack in league with Callum and a second goal was narrowly missed. A breach on the Hawks midfield and defence led to Jack in a 1; 1 face off with the Ridgwaye defence and Jack won! The Ridgwaye corner was cleared by Callum and a throw on by Josh D looked promising but was converted to an attack on goal by Ridgwaye; again Jack dived, smothered and saved. Rusthall fought back and moved the play to the Ridgwaye half. Callum was unlucky to miss the net and the ball went just too wide. Again the visitors responded and the shot of the hawk’s goal was stopped in its tracks by an alert Jack coming out to grab the ball and leaving a striker on the floor. Josh U took advantage of the space that followed by a good goal kick and made a fantastic run to score. Cheers all around but tension mounted as the visitors sought to reply but they were no match for Jack and another goal was saved.
Rusthall were on the attack and playing well as a team, hungry for more goals. The score line ended 2:0 with The Hawks showing promise of a higher score
Final score 2:0 to the hawks
Managers
comments:
In the
first game, we were clearly not in position a lot of the time, which allowed
Ridgewaye to play in the vacant areas. It was a frustrating game which I am
pleased to say that the second game showed everyone what we are made of. Last
season we beat team 1, 3.1 and drew 1.1 with team 2. I personally think that
team 1. were an easier team which is why I was disappointed with our first game
performance. Team 2 have a fantastic keeper and a great play market in the team
which remembering our last game with them I expected us to struggle.
This shows that when we are tuned into the game and we have the determination we can win any game that is thrown at us.
Personally I was once again impressed by Jack, Jack had the opportunity to go to goal keeper training on Saturday, but decided to play in goal for the team. Jack has become such a key member of the team and his departure would have been potentially a different score line. As we all know it is great scoring goals but naturally if the other team score more then the efforts up front are in vane. Keep it up Jack.
Once again a big thank you to Jo (Jacks mum) for writing this report, which I hope to get another parent to write it next time. After the damage to the trophy Tiana took our replacement for another week as she had a broken one for the week before. Everyone got a bag of sweets this week for their efforts, with the trophy being back for next weeks training.
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RusthallUnder 9’s (Hawks) v Crowborough (Friendly)
Game 1 : Rusthall 0; Crowborough 1
Initially
the teams played 6 a side but Rusthall had turned up in force and had 3 spare
players waiting to play, at Rusthalls suggestion Bailey gamely offered to play for
the opposition
Basicformat: Billy and Callum up front
Tianna
and Josh U in defence,
Jack
in goal
Josh
D, Daniel and Oliver in midfield rotated
The game started as it continued with Crowborough on the attack and most of the game played in Rusthalls half. Jack made an early save and continued to keep on his toes throughout the game. Josh U mounted a spirited attack but Rusthall were unable to turn the advantage to a goal. Crowborough snatched a goal in quick response to the rare foray by Rusthall into their half. A shift of the midfield players allowed space for Tianna to hoof the ball up to Crowborough’s goal but Callum was unable to get to it in time to convert despite a mad dash. The teams moved to 7 a side with Bailey gamely changing sides.
Tiana took a corner with characteristic gusto but Crowborough were strong in defence and it didn’t reach as far as a goal opportunity. The pace turned once again on Rusthall and Jack made an excellent save jumping full length to tip the ball over the top post. The respite was short lived and jack again moved swiftly to save another strike, pushing it away but Rusthall found it hard to clear and Jack was forced to dive again to thwart the second try.
Crowborough were undeterred and continued the attack, Rusthall worked well as a team in defence, Olly, Josh U, Josh D all played their part and fought for each ball and passing shot. Billy made an excellent tackle to stop a relentless advance on goal and allowed Tiana to clear it with her big boot, but the game was very much played on Crowboroughs terms with Rusthall in defence. Jack was on his mettle with more saves and his dives and concentration saved the goal score from increasing beyond 1 ably supported by the Rusthall defence and midfield. The Rusthall team kept up great spirits till the end and did not wilt under the constant pressure they were placed under. They did really well to keep the score at just 1: 0. Well done the team
Game
2 : Rusthall 0: Crowborough 4
Callum
up front
Oliver
and Bailey midfield with Josh D
Billy,
Tianna Josh U in defence (with rotation of most positions throughout the game)
Jack
in goal
Crowborough made a strong start, making the most of the sheer physical bulk and size of their attacking 3 players who were as vocal as they were big! Within minutes jack was forced to leap across the width of the goal to save an early strike .Rusthall made a spirited attacking run but were thwarted and Crowborough turned the run into a reverse attack on Rusthalls goal, strong excellent saves by jack were supplemented by fabulous strong team work in defence by Tiana, the Joshies and Billy.
Callum had few opportunities to take a ball to strike and Rusthall moved faced and adapted to work a defensive wall against the onslaught from Crowborough that continued at a fast pace during both halves. Crowborough nearly turned a strong corner into a goal but were thwarted by a dive from Jack.
Manager
comments:
As you all know I was unable to attend this match, due to other football
commitments. I would like to thank Dave, Callums Dad, for helping out with the
team, which the team and the parents would all like to thank him. I would like
to also thank Jo (Jacks mum) for producing a, once again, national paper
standard editorial piece for the website and Rustic.
In
all areas I have been told that you kept going against this physical team. This
is exactly what I want to hear. It is this determination to keep going, even if
we are down, that will turn games around. Just so you are all aware Crowborough
FC are in the top division of the under 9’s in the City league. So for us to do
so well against them, I am overwhelmed with pride.
Mark
Sykes
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Friendly Match - RFC Hawks V Tonbridge Invicta - Jockey Farm 23rd Feb 08
With three teams playing and a few players missing we were stretched to only 5 players and Adam Plunkett (under 8’s) helping us in the first match.
Match 1
Result 2.2 (Adam Plunkett 2) 6 a side.
Match 2
Result 2.0 Win (Tiana 1 and Joshua U 1) we had 5
players, Invicta had 6.
Match 3
Result 2.1 Lost (Billy 1) 5 a side.
Billy Sykes got man of the match for his efforts, goal and being fouled really badly 5 times and still kept on going.
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Rusthall Hawks: 16th Feb. Away games v Sevenoaks and Foresters
Rusthall v Foresters
9.30 k/o
Final score 2: 1
Billy 1, Callum 1
Team:
- Up front:
Billy and Callum
- Midfield: Olly,
Josh D
- Defence: Tiana,
Josh U
- Goal: Jack
Second half: Michael in midfield, replacing Olly
The game kicked off with pace and an immediate attack from the Hawks.
Olly created two corner opportunities, each taken by Tiana, and it soon became clear that Hawks was hungry for a win. Throughout the first half Hawks were on the attack and Billy made good use of a Callum cross to the centre to take the first goal in just 10 minutes.
An attempt by Foresters to respond was thwarted as Callum intercepted a loose ball and turned it into the Hawks second goal just 5 minutes later
Tiana kept up the momentum and was unlucky not to score again from a full length pitch run and an attempt at goal was narrowly saved by the beleaguered Foresters goalie. Good team passing kept consistent pressure on Foresters until Half time.
The second half saw the Hawks again on the attack with two shots by Callum being narrowly saved. Michael added some new energy supporting Tiana forcing most of the Foresters team into defence.
A rare attack by Foresters saw Jack narrowly miss the ball despite an energetic leap across the exposed front. However, the Hawks kept up the pace and the Foresters reprieve was short lived. Michael made a strong bid for a third goal by a full pitch length run. Excellent Hawks teamwork was shown by all with good blocking moves and player co ordination.
Final score 2: 1 to the Hawks
Hawks v Sevenoaks
8:0
Callum 7, Tiana 1
Team:
- Callum andTiana up front
- Mid field
Josh D and Billy (Olly and Jack replacing in second half)
- Defence:
Josh U and Michael
- Goal: Jack (and
then Michael)
An early save by Jack thwarted the only real attack from Sevenoaks. Josh U added to the defence and turned the play into an another fine attacking performance from the Hawks
Callum scored after a sustained attack with the Hawks displaying fluent passing and all round pitch control. Within just 5 minutes Callum scored again. Tiana was unlucky not to score from a superb cross and it wasn’t the goalie who beat her but a near deflection from the top post. The first half was dominated by the Hawks and Sevenoaks were saved only by half time from unrelenting attacking play that saw a number of attempts at goal
Second half:
The Hawks were in dominant form and as Jack had been so underused in goal he was put into midfield with Michael taking his place . Jack made an immediate impact and a great pitch length run almost added to the score line but his attempt was deflected by the keeper only to allow Callum to convert the rebound into a third goal.
A rare run by Sevenoaks at goal was well saved by Michael and it proved to be the last attack from an out manoeuvred Sevenoaks side.
Tiana made fantastic use of a loose Sevenoaks ball and turned it into another Hawks goal.
From that point on Hawks were on a roll and excellent passing from the team forced the play into Sevenoaks half allowing Callum to add to the score line with a remarkable run of goals. Tianna was selfless in her attacking moves and Olly created many opportunities allowing a well supported Callum to take full advantage of the opportunities created. Consistently good team work meant that the Hawks outplayed and outscored their rivals. Jack made a final full length pitch run from which Callum scored his sixth goal. The Josh’s were in full force and Sevenoaks crumbled allowing Callum to score his final and 7th goal
Final score 8; 0
Man of the match Olly
For consistently good team work and working hard to create goal opportunities
Manager comments:
Firstly I would like to thank the parents for compiling this superb match report.
Every single player gave 110% and it is this drive and enthusiasm that will drive the team to more comfortable wins in the future. One final point, it was the first match that I had seen when the team were really looking for passes and 1-2s with team mates, great to see from not just me, but the proud parents as well.
You did usall proud.
Mark Sykes
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Rotherfield v Rusthall (Hawks)
2nd February 2008
Under 9’s
After the first game of the season, when we beat Rotherfield 5.0 and 6.0, at Jockey Farm, I was expecting another goal fest again. However, away at Rotherfield, Rotherfield’s team have dramatically improved and were a strong test for Rusthall.
Due to illness Jack was out of goal and Michael filled in providing me with a reliable shot stopper, Mungo is still out of matches due to his serious head injury last year.
Team: Callum (striker), Billy (midfield), Oliver (midfield), Joshua U (defence), Joshua D (Defence)), Tiana (striker) and Michael (goal). Jordon (midfield) also joined the team from the Eagles.
Once again playing 7 a side, both teams struggled on the crisp pitch after an early morning frost.
Rusthall won the first game 2.0
The second game was end to end action and thankfully ended up a 4.3 win for Rusthall.
On a difficult surface in the cold with Jack not available we played well to secure two wins.
RESULTS:
Rotherfield 0 Rusthall 2 (Callum, Callum)
Rotherfield 3 Rusthall 4 (Callum, Joshua U, Jordon, Tiana)
Once again I hope that I have the goal scorer’s right. I am sure I will hear from a parent soon if I got it wrong.
Regards
Mark Sykes
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I announcedthe winner of the 2007 trophy today (15th December 2007) who due to his amazing goal tally which is around 25 in 12 matches, to Callum. I would also like to add that Callum’s attitude has dramatically improved; his passing and general teamwork has made him the key part to this team so far this season.
The new trophy will be handed out at the end of the season.
I would
also like to add that besides a few matches we have been amazing this season, a
real team effort. I hope that the team have enjoyed it as much as I have.
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Matfield v Rusthall Hawks 15th December 2007
Team: Jack, Tiana, Joshua, Michael, Joshua, Callum, Billy, Oliver.
Due to the amount of players available from each team, we played 8 a side again.
We played well with an attacking team playing Billy and Callum upfront with Oliver Michael and Joshua in Midfield with Tiana and Joshua U in defence with Jack in goal.
Rusthall attacked well from the start creating a number of chances which just went wide. The goal came from a scramble at the Matfield goal area which came out to Billy who lifted the ball high in the box for Oliver to jump up and header the ball into the bottom left corner. A great goal and assist, which I think is the first headed goal all season.
I once again can’t remember if we scored again in the first half or the second half but Callum pounced on a free ball supplied from a huge long kick from Tiana which passed everyone and rifled the ball in the back of the net, great goal and assist. It was another effort from Callum who scored again to make the final score. 3.0 to us.
However, the score line could well have been 3.3, but thanks to some amazing saves from Jack.
A one on one with the striker saw Jack not go down until the very last moment to stop the ball, always keeping an eye on the ball. Another save came when the defenders were stretched and the ball came across the penalty area with the Matfield forward lining up a shot. Jack leapt out of the goal and smothered the ball to stop the strike. TOP KEEPING.
Result Matfield 0 Rusthall 3 (Oliver, Callum, Callum)
Second game saw us play a team with two players who should have been in green rather than black and white Martha and Will from the Eagles team who were drafted in to make up numbers for the opposition.
As we know Will and Callum are fearless players and very competitive which saw our team struggle to get past Will in defence, who was playing a blinder, annoyingly!
The goal came from a long ball with Callum being pressured from Will but took it well and slotted home to get a goal.
In the second half, Will moved to goal keeper and freed our attackers to penetrate the team. I moved Tiana who was playing a blinder up front with Callum with Oliver in defence, and although it took her a while to stop going back and defending she supplied a great ball for Callum to score again which crept between Will’s legs and just went over the line, Thanks Will. Tiana continued her attacking play and made her own goal from a pass from midfield ran her heart out which she stuck her leg out at full pace with the keeper and defending hassling her slotted home a goal.
Result Matfield 0 Rusthall 3 (Callum, Tiana, Callum)
Over all a superb Rusthall display, with Jack being the every amazing keeper, Joshua U, moving the ball so well and kicking the ball out of danger. Tiana’s thumping long balls up the field, with two assists and a goal. Joshua D playing those long throws helping us move the team up the field. Oliver and Billy were getting stuck into loads of challenges making some fantastic tackles whilst not giving up. Finally Callum who can always be relied on to get a goal or four!
Polegate Grasshoppers v Rusthall Hawks 1st December 2007
Team: Jack, Tiana, Joshua, Michael, Joshua, Callum, Billy, Oliver (Jordon from Eagles team)
Due to the amount of players available from each team, we played 8 a side, for the first time.
We played well with an attacking team playing Billy and Callum upfront with Oliver Michael Jordon and Joshua D in Midfield with Tiana and Joshua in defence with Jack in goal.
The game was played at a high tempo with end to end action but the ball did seem to get cleared from the Rusthall goal mouth on quite a few occasions but was well defended by Rusthall. The Polegate goal came with a one on one to the left side of our goal with jack which narrowly went past him into the goal.
We fought back to bring it 1.1 with a Tiana free kick riffled into the goal.
We continued our attack producing great chances but just not getting in the netting. The break away from Polegate came and ended the game 2.1 Polegate winning narrowly.
Result Polegate (Red) 2 . Rusthall 1 (Tiana)
Second game was a virtual replay of the first game with Callum scoring once again.
Result Polegate (Blue) 2 . Rusthall 1 (Callum)
Overall with the changes made we looked strong as I think that Polegate are one of the top two teams in the league, knowing the result they had a Chipstead.
I know I say this all the time that the team played well, but every single person played really well this match. The strikers were talking to each other and getting into position. The midfield played some fantastic balls all over the pitch and the defence was strong against a very strong attacking Polegate team. Jack was once again on top form saving so many attempts on goal, which I think it could have been 12 attempts he saved.
The man of the match went to Jordon from the Eagles team who was drafted into our team at the last moment. Not knowing our players that well and positions we play he showed great determination and movement provided us with the strength to stop the attacking play from Polegate on many occasions Well Done Jordon.
Tonbridge Invicta V Rusthall under 9’s 22nd November 2007
On a bitterly cold morning we took, for the first time, three teams to Tonbridge Invicta to play their Spitfires / Hurricanes / Lancaster teams, the Eagles / Hawks / and the newly formed Falcons.
Hawks team
We rotatedall teams playing for only 7 minute matches, on two pitches.
No trophy this week as it was so cold that by the time the last game whistle blew, everyone ran to the car to put the heating on.
Well done to all of the team who struggled with the cold, but still played well and I am sure if under normal match conditions, we would have won all the matches.
Chipstead Green v Rusthall Hawks
Team: Callum, Billy, Oliver, Mungo, Michael, Joushua D, Tiana, Joshua U, Jack.
On a pitch which was the width of half a full size pitch, far bigger than we are used too, Rusthall came back from 2.0 down to end the game losing 3.2 with two goals from Callum once again showing determination and persistence to edge two goals to draw the match only to see Chipstead score soon from the other end.
A difficult game against a well organised team, who used the extra space made by the size of the pitch to their advantage stretching our team.
Jack who made many great saves and sustained an injury deserves a special mention, and well done Callum for once again being on target.
RESULT
Chipstead 3 Rusthall 2 (Callum, Callum)
Chipstead Black v Rusthall Hawks
Oliver replaced Jack in goal in the second game, but from the off, this team were not only creative, but physical and stretched our team even further than the first game. The team was unable to mark the players as well as they have done in previous matches mainly down to the width of the pitch and the quality of the Chipstead team.
I am sorry to say that we should have had many free kicks with some extremely physical play on and off the ball, but I think the ref left his whistle in the changing room.
RESULT
Chipstead 8 Rusthall 0
Over all, we were out played, but I am sure once they come to the Farm, we would give them a harder game and on a sensible sized pitch.
Joshua U got the man of the match as he worked all day trying to stop the attack and played some fantastic ball control to help his team.
Well done team, and a good effort all round.
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Rusthall
(Hawks) Under 9’s
Rusthall v
Hailsham (Lions) – 20th October
Hailsham travelled to Jockey Farm for games 5 and 6 of the season, on a cold but dry day with kick off later than usual, at 11am
Team: Billy and Callum strikers, Mungo and Joshua D midfield, Tiana and Joshua U defence, with Jack in Goal, Michael as sub to change with Joshua D at half time.
We played 7 a side from the start with the Hawks unusually struggling to get shots at goal for the first half with the game being played tight in midfield. The goal came close to half time with Callum once again on target. 1.0.
Half time
Firstly I would like to apologise as I can’t remember the order of the goals but the second half saw us attack down the slope with an own goal coming from a Callum shot, another seething attack for a second goal again from Callum, and two superb strikes from Tiana.
A great match to watch and extend the goal lead for the second half with fantastic flowing football and movement. I would also like to add that the set pieces we have been working on over the last few weeks are paying off, and confused the opposition alot.
RESULT: Rusthall 5 Callum (2), OG (1), Tiana (2) Hailsham 0.
Rusthall v Hailsham (Tigers)
Same teams came out to play but without Tiana, as she had to leave to her Birthday treat, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TIANA. Joshua D came into defence with Joshua U with Michael in midfield. From the off we soon created chances but it was a thumping cross with a well timed knock that took us 1.0 up at half time with Billy scoring.
Half time.
Once again I apologise if I get this wrong, but I think we scored next with another great goal from Callum who was once again on top form. Hailsham broke away from midfield and slid the ball through to the striker who had crept in behind the Joshua’s defence to go one on one with Jack. Jack dived the right way but the shot was well struck and went in to make it 2.1. With time ticking Jack was called into action three more times with some really difficult shots which he saved with ease.
Callum came back to defend to stop them scoring anymore so we could secure this 2.1 win.
A great Team performance and win for us, unbeaten in 6 games, 22 goals, 3 conceded. Special thanks to Callum (4 goals) and Tiana (2) Jack for saving so may good chances, and for the player that won the man of the match Mungo. Mungo was superb today, with the use of his long throws we attacked quicker and with two close changes, just going wide, plus stopping Hailsham attack our goal on many occasions he was a deserved winner.
Rusthall(Hawks) Under 9’s
Ridgewaye v Rusthall - 6th October
Rusthall travelled to Ridgewaye for their second game of the season and on a high from the great result in the last league game. However Ridgewaye who apparently have 38 in their team (in theory 26 reserves) naturally picked their best, and expected a very touch match. Due to the size of the team the Ridgewaye coach asked us if we could play 7 a side rather than 6, I agreed but not really knowing who had the advantage with the additional player.
Ridgewaye (Astros) v Rusthall (Hawks).
I played Oliver and Billy upfront, Callum and Mungo in midfield, with Tiana and Joshua U in defence with Jack in goal.
We played this attacking formation really well and moved the ball around giving the Ridgewaye midfield a lot to do, but even though chances were made at either end it ended at half time 0.0.
In the second half we gave away a penalty which was well taken by Ridgewaye bringing the score 1.0. Soon after a scramble at the Ridgewaye goal area saw my super sub Michael, having to literally guide it over the line as the ball rolled across the goal line. 1.1.
It was afree kick to Rusthall which as always Tiana took, with her thunder left foot, she hit it high into the area where the defenders and goal keeper could not keep it out and it became 2.1 to us.
Later on Jack was called into action with great saves to keep it the same and with thanks from long throws from Mungo and Joushua we were attacking again and the terrier that is Callum created at chance and slotted home a third goal for Rusthall. Three minutes left we defended hard leaving only Oliver upfront and retained a great win.
Ridgewaye (Astros) 1 / Rusthall (Hawks) 3 (Michael, Tiana, Callum)
Ridgewaye (Comets) v Rusthall (Hawks).
The Comets looked to be a better team following the Eagles game, so we decided to man mark their best player who was the main play maker for the team. Joshua U did a great job and stopped him getting into goal scoring chances.
From the start we attacked but as their goal keeper was at least the height of the goal and used his area so well, it looked impossible for us to score, and it ended 0.0 at half time.
The second half saw us go a goal down from fast passing and a great strike from Ridgwaye which Jack did well to get his fingers to it. Now 1.0 to Ridgewaye we once again brought on Michael and Joshua D, which Joshua and Mungo’s long throws paved the way for more Rusthall attacks. Great defending from Tiana and Joshua, showing great foot work stopped anymore Ridgewaye goals and it was the drive from midfield and the strikers that gave Callum a one on one with the giant of a keeper to the left side of the goal area, which instead of blasting the ball he lifted the ball and scooped it over the keeper into the bottom right corner of the goal. With just 2 minutes left of the game it ended 1.1, which was a fantastic result.
Ridgewaye (Comets) 1 / Rusthall (Hawks) 1. (Callum)
Callum won the player of the match trophy due to his persistence in front of goal and scoring a wonder goal. Special mentions should go to Tiana who scored a fantastic free kick and defended so well, plus great saves from Jack, with another great performance. I would also like to mention that one of the coaches at Ridgewaye came up to me at the end and said “How did you get Mungo and Jousha to throw that well, and so far” I would love to take credit for this, but Mungo and Jousha are now our regular throw on takers as they possess this magic throw which is so effective when we are moving up the field.
Well done to you all for a great performance unbeaten so far with a total of 15 goals in 4 games. I am just waiting for Steve McClaren to call me to see if you are all are free for the England team.
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Rusthall(Hawks) v Paddock Wood B – Friendly
Rusthall played with a change of formation from the start with Oliver as a forward and Jack in goal.
With Callum and Michael missing from the team we played Billy and Oliver upfront, Mungo and Joshua in midfield with Joshua U and Tiana in defence with Jack as the new goal keeper.
In the first match Rusthall playing down the slope, consistently attacking the goal.
With Mungo taking any throw on’s with his long throw, we soon were in a great position with good passing in midfield which gave Billy time to move into position and slide his kick past the keeper in the right hand corner.
Half Time.
Changes to half time allowed Tiana to move forward and attack the goal with her thumping kicks.
However, a Paddock Wood goal came from nowhere with the defence scrambling to clear the ball. Now 1.1 we came out and attacked the goal on many occasions and some free space presented itself to the right side of defence with Joshua available and unmarked to slot home for 2.1.
With a few more close shaved at either end the game ended with a great result for us. Well Done lads
Rusthall 2(Billy, Joshua) Paddock Wood 1.
Rusthall(Hawks) v Paddock Wood A – Friendly
We were all over the team in the midfield and defence but with Paddock Woods striker playing massively off side, the defence lost sight of the striker and Paddock Wood came close on several occasions. Thanks to great saves by Jack it stayed 0.0.
Half Time,
With the second half I moved Tiana to a more midfield role as Joshua U had the lone striker covered for the second half.
Tiana moved into some space and with a thunder strike it went past all of the defence and into the back of the net. Rusthall controlled the game and looked like we were going to win 1.0 however a 2 minute from the end goal from Paddock Wood, did not give us enough time to secure our second win and resulted in a draw.
Rusthall 1 (Tiana) Paddock Wood 1.
Well done to the team who showed great passing and movement to attack the goal and control the games. Jack won player of the match due to his first time in goal and saving some great shots. Well Done.
Rusthall (Hawks) v Rotherfield (Rangers) Saturday 22nd September
Rusthall Welcomed Rotherfield to Jockey Farm for the first game of the new season, which saw the hawks with its full squad (10 players).
Rusthall started with Billy and Oliver as strikers, Callum in Midfield, Tiana and Joshua U in Defence with Jack in Goal. Rusthall took the centre facing up the slop and were on the attack from the start. Great movement from the forwards and midfield saw us take a convincing lead of 3.0 at half time with our defence touching the ball I think only a few time with jack making one save.
In the second half the teams changed with Joshua D and Michael as strikers, Mungo in Midfield.
Once again goals were shore to come as we attacked and poor Jack in goal had little to do. Two further goals came in the second half with great passing and fantastic strikes at goal.
A great win by Rushall, which showed that the team can not just win, but win convincingly.
RESULT
Ruthall 5 (Oliver 2, Joshua U 1, Callum 1, Joshua D 1) v Rotherfield 0.
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Rusthall (Hawks) v Rotherfield (Rovers) Saturday 22nd September
The same teams that started the first game came on to play the next game and were gifted several goals by the Rotherfield goal keeper. Rusthall played so far up the pitch that the game was played in the opposition half for most of the half. Great play from Callum who scored three goals in less than 10 minutes.
Second half once again saw the same changes made to the team and due to the lead, gave Joshua U the change to dance around all of the Rotherfield players on several occasions which nearly resulted in a wonder goal, following his off the cross bar attempt in the second half not going in.
Once again the game was won by a great team and solo performances from all of the RFC players.
RESULT
Ruthall 6 (Oliver 1, Joshua U 1, Callum 3, Billy 1, ) v Rotherfield 0.
Oliver won the player of the game trophy due to scoring three goals (2 in first and 1 in the second game), plus due to his change in position from Goal Keeper last season to striker, which is now his new home, well done.
I would also like to credit Callum for scoring 4 goals in midfield and passing the ball a lot more resulting in some fantastic flowing attack play. Joshua U, especially in the second half, needs a mention, with one particular moment in the second game which he took the ball from the right side of defence and tool the ball past five Rotherfield players and made a great goal scoring effort.
Well Done
Hawks, keep it up.
Mark Sykes
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Under 9 Hawks
