Under
11's Match Reports
Match 1
EASTHAM LEAGUE
UNDER 11 DIVISION
West Kirby Wasps vs A.C. Hoylake
Sunday 14/09/08
Venue: West Kirby
The first competitive league fixture against the Wasps was always going to be a tricky affair and this certainly proved to be true. Hoylake started very strongly during the first period and seemed to be totally in control. With polished performances from the starting midfield duo of James Neidzwiecki and Felix Jackson in the middle of the park, and Alex Alman and Lucas Mckinley working tirelessly on the wings, things looked good. A couple of decent chances went begging and West Kirbys first meaningful attack led to the opening goal. 1-0 to the home team from a free kick.
It wasn't long before Hoylake responded and it came from a free kick awarded after excellent work from Reece Magee on the left hand side of the box. From approximately 15 yards Adam Ledgerton slotted a fine shot over the Wasps wall and into the roof of the net! 1-1 and still time to take the lead before the half was over. From an acute angle near the right hand corner Adam lofted the ball over the opposition keeper to give us a great score line for the half. He later admitted that it was a cross but they all count! 1-2 to Hoylake. A good 30 minutes.
Half time changes led to a bit of a difficult period in the second half. But for brilliant defensive displays from all the back four of Harry Ellice Clarke, Daniel Goldston, Jack Heywood and man-of-the-match Lee Evans we may have conceded more than an equalizer. The scores were level when a goalmouth scramble was forced in and West Kirby could sense a victory. 2-2 with it all to play for. Our lads showed some great strength of character for the last 10 minutes and began to assert themselves again on this match. Lewis Champion, a half time striking substitution, was showing some excellent footwork and decided to unleish a rasping drive from outside the box to beat the goalie hands down.....goooaaallllll! No...The referee had disallowed the goal for offside! A poor decision but it did not deter our lads. Reece picked up the ball, on his now left wing position, and following a strong run he produced a wonderful cross for the advancing Lewis to get his, and Hoylakes just rewards! 2-3 to AC.
Summary: A well deserved 3-2 win for us. Even some poor refereeing and a perfectly good disallowed goal could not stop Hoylake from getting the 3 points.
Final Score: West Kirby Wasps 2-3 AC Hoylake
Man-of-the-match: Evans
Bookings: Ledgerton (dissent)
Team: Holmes-Irvers, Heywood, Goldston, Ellice-Clarke, Evans, Williams, Alman, Mckinley, Jackson, Niedzwiecki, Fulton, Champion, Ledgerton, Magee.
Match 2
Sun 28/09/08 Coronation park. AC Hoylake vs Vauxhalls.
In our first game at our new home pitch Hoylake could not have chosen stiffer opposition than Vauxhalls.
In the first half most of the game was being played in the middle third of the pitch with Vauxhalls getting the better of Hoylakes midfield with some tough challenges and quick passing.There was little goal mouth action untill Hoylake forced a corner on the left hand side of the pitch.Felix swung in a cross to the far post where Lewis sent a bullet header goalwards. The Vauxhalls Keeper stretched to save what looked like a certain goal but only managed to parry the ball back into play, Before any Hoylake Player could react the keeper recovered to pounce on the ball.Holake defence had stood firm for most of the first half with Harry.Lee,Jack and Dan fending off most of the opposition attacks untill we did not take our chance to clear a goalmouth scramble and vauxhalls managed to poke the ball home to lead 1 0.With Lucas Showing great speed,strength and determination down the right flank a chance had to come, and so it did, Lucas crossed a ball from the right which was flicked on and Alex making a run from the back post rasped a shot which smashed against the post.
The second half followed a similar pattern to the first but with Hoylake having to do a bit more defending as vauxhalls enjoyed the lions share of possesion.With the Hoylake lads tiring it was only a matter of time before the second goal came for vauxhalls.A breakaway left Matty in our goal in a one on one situation. which resulted in A 2 0 scoreline.Alex Had great chance to reduce the defecit running in on goal and rounding the keeper only to have his goal bound shot blocked on the line by a covering defender. Final score 0 2. Hoylake can have no complaints as they were beaten by the better team on the day.
M.O.M Jake Williams
match 3
Sunday 12/10/08
Venue: Victoria Park, Greasby
A C Hoylake vs Gayton
The weather could not have been more glorious for a game of football following recent atrocious conditions. Hoylake were chomping at the bit after a disappointing defeat two weeks ago and needed to get back on track with a good performance.
Their intent was obvious from the very first kick as slick passing and quick movement carved open the Gayton defence time and time again. Excellent work from the midfield duo of James Niedzwiecki and Lucas Mckinley ensured that our strikers received a constant service and it was only a matter of time before we took the lead. Superb work on the left wing from Adam Ledgerton, beating two men, rounding the keeper and cutting in a left footed cross for Lewis Champion to slot home was just the beginning!
Things didn't get any better for Gayton as we quickly scored a second. The impressive Kyle Fulton picked up the ball from his left wing position following a short corner and looped a perfect lob over the despairing goalie. The third came from Adam who, along with Lewis, caused havoc on the Gayton back line all day. Following a through ball from Kyle he latched onto it to beat the goalie and slot home. Adams second and Hoylakes' fourth came courtesy of the penalty spot. Again good work on the left from Kyle led to a penalty as he was tripped. Adam dispatched the kick which flew into the top left hand corner....a penalty any player of any age would be happy to call theirs! His hattrick followed just before the end of the half. Michael Draycott on the right wing produced a great cross for Adam to prod home. 5-0 at the interval.
The second period did not get any better for the visitors as Hoylake piled on the pressure. Michael was having his best game of the season to date as his constant movement, clever play and little slotted balls led to countless chances on goal. The defence for AC did not lose concentration and Gayton must have been totally demoralised by this stage. A commanding performance from Lee Evans and Harry Ellice-Clark in the centre of defence with Jake Williams and Alex Alman as full backs gave away nothing. Bringing Jack Heywood on as a second half replacement for Jake and Reece Magee for James did not distract the team and we continued to have some excellent play. The sixth goal gave Kyle a brace as he was put clean through for a one on one with the keeper. His initial shot was parried but clinically finished on the second attempt.
Second half substitute Felix Jackson quickly got on the score sheet for the seventh and eighth goals! After a goalmouth scramble he was in the right place to finish well. His second was a class goal. A wonderful run through the heart of the opposition defence and a superbly placed shot left the goalkeeper stranded. The final goal came from the inspirational James who, following a short break as sub, came on to put the final nail in Gaytons' coffin! He smashed home a great goal to leave the score line 9-0. Gayton did have one golden chance to get a goal from the penalty spot. As their striker prepared to take the kick Charlie, who had been redundant for most of the game, began to do a "Reina". His wobbly legs and movement must have put the player off as he blasted the ball high over the crossbar. It is a sign of our domination that Gaytons' man-of-the-match was their goalkeeper who, but for a string of fine saves, would have been taking the ball out of his net well into double figures!
A great performance and an excellent team effort.
Final Score: AC Hoylake 9-0 Gayton
Man-of-the-match: Ledgerton
Goals: Ledgerton 3, Fulton 2, Jackson 2, Champion 1, Niedzwiecki 1.
Team: Watt, Williams, Heywood, Alman, Evans, Ellice-Clark, Draycott, Fulton, Jackson, Magee, Mckinley, Niedzwiecki, Champion, Ledgerton.
match 4
19/10/08 Mark Rake Bromborough. Shore villa 1- 10 AC Hoylake
In a game that turned out to be a little easy for AC in the end, it did take 10 mins to get off the mark with a well taken goal by Ledgerton after a fine through ball from our left back Goldston who was starting off some great attacks down the left flank with some considered play.It did not take long for the second to arrive after a pile driver from McKinley rebounded off the bar to Fulton who finished neatly.The home team seemed to give up after our third went in, again from Ledgerton who finished well after some great work from Fulton down the right.Our defence was not troubled at all for most of the half and this seemed to still be the case when a hopefull ball down the pitch was scooped up by our keeper Watt, only for an opposition player to barge into him making him drop the ball and go down injured as the forward gave the home team a goal they did not deserve. This was a foul on the keeper in anybodies book but the ref did not give so we had to accept it. The injured Watt could not carry on and was replaced in goal by Heywood untill half time.
Half time score Shore villa 1-3 AC Hiylake.
A few changes at half time aswell as a different formation worked well for AC in the second half with goals coming thick and fast. The first of the second half and our fourth and his third was from Ledgerton after some great work from Draycott on the left who had come on at half time and was linking up well with the forwards. Our fifth a minute later was a great team goal with four or five players exchanging passes down the left before Magee powered in a shot to the far corner of the net from the inside left position.Number six was finished off by Jackson, Who was now patroling the right wing with pace and determination, after another shot from Magee was parried by the keeper. Our seventh was again by Ledgerton who had a simple tap in after Jackson had skinned the full back and pulled a great cross back across goal.Number eight was created by Draycott with neat footwork releasing Mckinley inside the box who smashed the ball into the net from close range.Our ninth and his fifth of the day was again that boy Ledgerton after a great through ball from Ellice-Clarke at the back split their defence and Adam raced from the halfway line to slot past the advancing keeper.Double figures were achieved when Jackson weaved his way into the box from the right passing defenders wih ease before finnishing into the far corner.
Final Score Shore Villa 1-10 AC Hoylake
Team; Watt,Evans,Heywood,Williams,Goldston,Magee,Niedzwiecki,McKinley,Fulton,Champion,Ledgerton,Alman,Jackson,Draycott,Ellice-Clarke.
Goals; Ledgerton 5, Jackson 2, Magee 1, Fulton 1, McKinley1.
M.O.M; McKinley.
match 5
A. C. Hoylake Vs Young Lions Sunday 02/11/08
Venue: Coronation Park.
This was always going to be a real test for Hoylake to see if we had the credentials to be contenders for the league. Young Lions were sitting pretty at the top with no losses and not even a point conceded! Having beaten Vauxhalls, who had also beaten us, we knew this was going to be tough.
From the very first kick A.C. showed their intentions and began playing some excellent football on a difficult pitch. The grass was too long and very muddy in places but this didn't stop our lads playing brilliantly at times. The midfield was packed with five men- Alex Alman on the left, Kyle Fulton on the right and the trio of Reece Magee, Lucas Mckinley and James Niedzwiecki in the middle. Not once did i recall a Young Lions player getting the better of our lads with James mastering the defensive midfield role superbly. Our domination became apparent when we scored our first in the sixth minute. Alex slotted a through ball on the left for Adam Ledgerton to run from the half way line and coolly shoot to the keepers right to give him no chance. The second was similar in that it involved Alex again doing some excellent work on the left wing to release Adam. He still had some work to do but, just as the goalie was advancing, he poked the ball under him for a well deserved 2-0 lead at half time. The Lions seemed totally shell-shocked and we had not finished with them yet!
The second period began were we had left off and Young Lions were not happy! Even with some atrocious refereeing decisions we continued to dominate. From the brilliant Declan Simpson, who was having his debut between the sticks, to our defensive quartet of Daniel Goldston at left back, Jake Williams at right back and Lee Evans with Harry Ellice-Clarke in the centre we did not give them a look in. The football being played by everyone was breathtaking at times. Lucas Mckinley and Reece Magee seemed to be everywhere on the pitch and we were again rewarded for our efforts. A strong run by Adam on the left side of the box, beating two men, and crossing from the bye line with his left peg gave Lucas the opportunity to smash a great goal to the roof of the net. 3-0 with plenty of time left. James had run himself ragged in the first half and had a well earned rest to give Felix Jackson a game and he soon got involved in the thick of it.
Charlie Watt has been the Hoylake Goalkeeper for years but was always reluctant! Today he was given the chance to prove himself as an outfield player.....and prove it he did! Not only did he have a sound performance at right back following an excellent first half from Jake, he topped it with a wonderful goal! Adams' corner was cleared to fully 20 yards from goal and Charlie unleashed a thunderbolt that flew into the top of the Lions net! 4-0 and they were truly a beaten team. Well done lads. We have given ourselves a great chance of winning the league with such a fine result.
Summary: LIONS WELL AND TRULY TAMED BY HOYLAKE!
Final Score: A C Hoylake 4-0 Young Lions
Man-of-the-match: Simpson
Goal scorers: Ledgerton, 2, Mckinley, 1, Watt, 1.
Team: Simpson, Williams, Goldston, Watt, Evans, Ellice-Clarke, Fulton, Niedzwiecki, Jackson, Mckinley, Alman, Magee, Ledgerton
match 6
Eastham Rangers Vs A.C. Hoylake Sunday 09th november 2008
Venue: Green Lane
The weather for this fixture could not have been more atrocious! Rain, wind and freezing cold conditions made the pleasure of watching this match difficult! That did not deter the parents and fans turning up though and it was a good attendance.
A.C. were always going to cruise in a game that was hard to motivate the players and indeed they barely needed to move out of first gear! Eastham did have chances in the first half and some excellent stops by Declan Simpson in goal kept another impressive clean sheet. It wasn't long before our team began to dominate proceedings and the midfield took control. Lucas Mckinley, Felix Jackson, Michael Draycott and Kyle Fulton showed why we are competing so well with the best in this league and never looked in trouble. The first goal came through the lively Lucas who finished well after a strong run through the heart of their defence. The second, From Reece Magee, was a fine effort with his left peg shooting low to the keepers right. 2-0 to Hoylake which was thoroughly deserved.
The second period started with five changes! In came James Niedzwiecki, Jake Williams and Adam Ledgerton in midfield along with Lee Evans and Daniel Goldston at the back. Our defence has been difficult to beat all season and today was no exception with Jack Heywood and Harry Ellice-Clarke commanding in their roles during the first half. Charlie Watt was having a very good second game as an outfield player at right back and Alex Alman had not put a foot wrong throughout the contest.
The match was as good as over when Reece again burst through the middle of the park to smash home his second early in the half. Further chances followed with excellent runs being made by fellow striker Lewis Champion. The fourth then came as Adam made a darting run from the left wing and managed to prod home from close range which should really have been collected by the Rangers goalie. He then quickly followed this with a late fifth goal after a deflected shot by Reece fell into his path and and he cooley slotted home from about 10 yards. A good win that keeps us close to the league leaders with games in hand. Well done again lads.
Summary: HOYLAKE RAMPANT AGAINST RUINED RANGERS
Final Score: Eastham Rangers 0-5 A. C. Hoylake
Man-of-the-match: Ledgerton
Goal scorers: Magee 2, Mckinley 1, Ledgerton 2.
Team: Simpson, Watt, Alman, Goldston, Heywood, Ellice-Clarke, Evans, Williams, Mckinley, Niedzwiecki, Jackson, Fulton, Draycott, Ledgerton, Magee, Champion.
MATCH 7
Gayton Vs A.C. Hoylake Sunday 16th November 2008
Venue: Bebington Oval
Following a very good result in the reverse fixture earlier in the season Hoylake were hoping for a similar outcome today. Weather conditions were excellent but unfortunately the pitch was not in a good condition with grass too long with boggy areas.
The poor pitch was not going to deter A.C. though and, following a ropey first 10 minutes, we seemed to wake up and took control of this match. As early as the fifth minute we scored through the ever impressive Lucas Mckinley. Reece Magee then scored his first from the middle of midfield with a fine left footed shot across the goal into the bottom right corner. This was followed by a shot from Alex Alman who burst down the left wing to beat the keeper but not the post. This did not stop him getting on the score sheet the next time we attacked, and again a strong run from the left wing led to a looping shot over the goalie to give us a 3-0 lead. Our fourth came in the twenty second minute as Adam Ledgerton ran through the heart of Gaytons defence and shot low in the bottom corner. Still we had time for a few more before the half was over and, three minutes later, a slotted ball from Adam gave Reece the opportunity to cooley finish with a powerful shot. Lucas then made it six after a mishit shot from Adam fell into his path and he finished clinically. The half time score of 7-0 was achieved when Reece got his hat-trick ( the first of four on the day!) and this contest was over with another thirty minutes to play.
The second half was again torrid for Gayton as Hoylake showed no mercy. Lucas again running strongly through the middle of the Gayton defence shot low and hard to give us another early goal in this half. Ten minutes in and Adam made it nine. James Niedzwiecki, who replaced Reece for the second half, battled to win a loose ball and gave Adam the goal scoring opportunity which he took gratefully. The tenth was probably Hoylakes' finest and it started on the right wing with Lucas and Lewis Champion combining well. One-twos and then a good cross to find Adam, whos' shot come cross was guided into the goal by the sliding Kyle Fulton. This was then followed by Adams hat-trick goal after a typical run through the middle of the park and low thunderous shot.
To give Gayton their credit they never once stopped trying to get something out of the game and ran their hearts out. Our defence was tested regularly over the next fifteen or twenty minutes as we took our foot off the pedal a little and Gayton tried to capitalise. Unfortunately for them our back four of Lee Evans, Jake Williams and then Jack Heywood in the second half, Daniel Goldston and man-of-the-match Harry Ellice-Clarke had not switched off! Matty Holmes-Irvers in goal really did have little to do today!
Kyle scored the twelfth with a superb shot in the bottom left corner from another through ball by Adam. He showed his versatility by swapping from right wing to left in this game which proved to be very effective when he notched up his own second half hat-trick in the last few minutes. All that was left was for Lucas to give us our best tally so far in the Eastham League with the fourteenth goal and a personal total of four. What a win!
Summary: GAYTON GIVEN LESSON BY GLORIOUS HOYLAKE
Final Score: Gayton 0-14 A.C.Hoylake
Man-of-the-match: Niedzwiecki and Ellice-Clarke
Scorers: Mckinley 4, Magee 3, Ledgerton 3, Fulton 3, Alman 1.
Team: Holmes-Irvers, Goldston, Williams, Heywood, Evans, Ellice-Clarke, Fulton, Draycott, Niedzweicki, Magee, Mckinley, Alman, Champion, Ledgerton
match 8
EASTHAM LEAGUE
Heswall Vs A.C. Hoylake Sunday 23rd November 2008
Venue: Puddington Lane Heswall.
A.C.Hoylake came to Heswall knowing they needed a win to stay in contention in the tight race at the top of the table and after seeing the past results maybe they took the opposition too much for granted. Heswall proved to made of sturner stuff then indicatated by past results and in the first 10 minutes seemed tro be the team with more hunger and belief in them selves. Within one minute Hoylake found themseleves a goal down, with nigh-on commical defending and a midfield who had gone to sleep.
For the next 10 minutes Hoylake were on the back foot, with sloppy defending from normally sure footed defenders making silly mistakes. Hoylake would have been punished far more harshly from tougher opposition, Heswall number 9 standing out with some clever running.
As the quarter hour approached Draycott picked the ball up near the half way line and with a deft flick of the ball passed to Jackson who ran strongly down the line and unleashed a killer cross curling away from the goalie, Ledgerton was left with a simple tap in to restore parity. Hoylake began to stamp their authority on the fixture with some fine possetion with only the woodwork stopping more goals from Magee (overhead kick) and Alman's head stopping a thunderous rootfooted shot from Jackson.
After 22 mins the captain Niedzweicki, had obviously had enough and decided to take the game into his own hands with a supurb struck shot from the edge of the box to make it 1-2.
At half time the team was re jigged with Niedzweicki, making way for McKinly , Watt came on for Haywood and Fulton on for Alman. The formation was changed to 4-4-2 . Hoylake dominated this half , rarely being troubled in defense. After 5 mins of the second half Ledgerton's shot was half saved by the keeper and the ball rolled in through his arms to make it 1-3.
After 40 Mins Ledgerton got his hatrick from a well worked corner from Magee and Watt, 1-4. McKinley then went on a mazey run from the centre circle and scored a brilliant goal finishing clamly with a simple low shot, 1-5.
Champion who had come on for Ledgerton worked hard in attack and was unlucky not to get the 6th with a fine run but Magee who picked the spilt ball up lobed the keeper to score his first and Hoylakes 6th, 1-6. To wrap up the victory Fulton and Magee teamed up with a nice give and go which was finished well by Magee 1-7. With this the Ref blew up for the end of the match. a deserved victory for Hoylake with some worrying moments at the outset, lady luck smiled kindly today on Hoylake, let's hope she keeps smiling for the rest of the season.
Summary: HESWALL KNOCKED DOWN BY HOYLAKE HAMMER IN HAIL HORROR HIT FIXTURE.
Final Score: Heswall 1-7 A.C.Hoylake
Man-of-the-match: Draycott and Evans
Scorers: Mckinley 1, Magee 2, Ledgerton 3, Niedzweicki, 1.
Formation : 4-5-1 First half
4-4-2 Second Half
Team: Simpson, Goldston, Watt, Heywood, Evans, Ellice-Clarke, Fulton, Draycott, Niedzweicki, Magee, Mckinley, Alman, Champion, Ledgerton, Jackson.
match 9
Headline: HOYLAKE RAMPANT AS SHAFTS DIG DEEP TO KEEP THE SCORE RESPECTABLE.
EASTHAM LEAGUE
Shaftsbury Youth Football Club Vs A.C. Hoylake Sunday 16th November 2008
Venue: Borough Road Tranmere
Hoylake were aware from the beginning that this was a very important fixture , a win here would continue the strong start to the current campaign that Hoylake were enjoying with only one loss in eight. Hoylake started with Adam upfront on his own that has been so succesful in the other matches. For the first ten minutes Hoylake battled strongly, pushing Shafts deep into their own half, winning corner after corner,
Charlie Watt a strong force down the right, Felix and Lucas were totally controlling the midfield and Felix and Adam were unlucky not score a couple.
After another period of sustained pressure the valve finally blew and Felix got a great goal with a fiercely struck shot which took a slight deflection to go in, 1-0 the Hoylake. After the restart Hoylake were firece, pushing for the second continuously; James made his customary strong performances with a particularly good tackle after twenty mins and a fine mazy run through the heart of Shaft's defence setting up Adam who would have scored if not for a fine save from Shafts goalie.
Just before half time Hoylake won a penalty through some determined work from the ever present Reece, unfortunately the goalie made another fine stop to deny hoylake a well deserved second.
After the restart Hoylake were again the stronger of the two with Mattie untroubled for the majority of the game, Hoylake were unfortunate not to add another 3, with fine efforts from Lucas (long range shot that hit the top of the crossbar) Alex (edge of the box shot saved on the line), Felix (Edge of the area).
After twenty mins of the second half Lucas slotted´through the ball of the day for Felix to run onto, looking up he took the shot which went narrowly over the bar. With two minutes to go Hoylake got what they deserved and another period where Hoylake were camped around the Shafts penalty box the ball went out wide to Reece on the left, he delivered a perfect cross which Lewis Champion was on the end to meet and put away in the net.
The back line of Jake, Charlie, Lee, Haza and Jack were outstanding in their support work, they never looked troubled and worked the line with an impressive display that belied their age. It is difficult to single any of them out as they were all fantastic. Keep up the good work lads.
Still lessons to learn (Throw ins anyone?), still more opportunities to grow, but a good hard working display on a frankly poor pitch with large areas of the playing area severely hampering Hoylake's fast free flowing attacking style, Charlie, Lucas, Adam and Felix were clean through only to be stopped by the playing surface.
Final Score: Shaftsbury Youth Football Club 0 - 2 A.C.Hoylake
Man-of-the-match: McKinley and Watt
Scorers: Jackson 1 (10 Mins) , Champion 1 (59 Mins).
Formation : 4-5-1
Team: Holmes, Williams, Watt, Heywood, Evans, Ellice-Clarke, Draycott, Niedzweicki, Magee, Mckinley, Alman, Champion, Ledgerton, Jackson.
Match 10
Sunday 11/01/2009
A.C. Hoylake vs. Shore Villa
After a full six week lay off for the Christmas period the lads were chomping at the bit and everyone looked keen. The pitch was not in great condition and the grass, as usual, was desperately in need of cutting, so the level of quality was always going to be impeded today. Shore Villa were to prove to be a much improved side from the team that we beat 10-1 last year.
Hoylake started strongly enough and although we were missing four players we still fielded a very good side. In the centre of defence Jack Heywood and Harry Ellice-Clarke gave very little away. With both Charlie Watt and Alex Alman at full back Villa were totally starved of goalmouth action and rarely got the opportunity to venture into our half! Poor Declan Simpson in goal had just a few touches of the ball during the whole game! This was the level of our domination and it wasn't long before we scored our first. In the fifth minute we were awarded a corner and slick combination play between Reece Magee and Charlie led to a pinpoint cross from Charlie. Adam Ledgerton glanced a side footed volley passed the keeper to give us a great 1-0 lead. Although Shore Villa had some tricky players in the middle of the park they could not cope with the strength, skill and determination of our midfield. James Niedzweicki was as tenacious as ever in the tackle while Lucas Mckinley showed the great engine that has driven him through every game successfully all season. He scored a brilliant goal in the twentieth minute from a cleared corner. His thunderous shot flew into the upper right hand corner of the net giving the goalkeeper no chance. Reece Magee on the left wing was showing great ball control and quality that nearly led to our next goal. A cross from the right wing bypassed all of the Villa defenders and somehow Reece was able to latch onto the cross but could only steer the ball onto the post. All day the service from the wings kept coming with Felix Jackson providing a lot of the superb crosses from the right. The first half finished 2-0 but could have quite easily have been a lot more.
The second half was again a story of total domination. Strikers Lewis Champion and man-of-the-match Adam Ledgerton were seeing so much of the ball and giving the already overworked Villa defenders a torrid time. Lewis' hold up play and overall game was excellent today and he rarely wasted a pass. Second Half substitutes Jake Williams and Lee Evans were keeping up the great defensive work to ensure a single shot was not made on our goal in the last 30 minutes! The rejigged midfield of Charlie on the right and Felix in the middle continued to outplay our hosts and this pressure told. In the fifteenth minute of the half the third was scored again by Lucas. A wonderful through ball from Adam left him with only the goalie to beat which he did with aplomb. The game was all but over and our fourth just sealed the victory. Reece again produced a strong run on the left and crossed dangerously into the box. The Villa defender could only steer the ball into his own net! A resounding 4-0 win. The boys keep rolling on. Well done.
Summary. Villa sure up their defence but cant stop Hoylake machine grabbing a great win!
Final Score: A.C. Hoylake 4-0 Shore Villa
Man-of-the-match: Ledgerton
Scorers: Mckinley,2, Ledgerton1, OG,1.
Team: Simpson, Heywood, Ellice-Clarke, Watt, Williams, Alman, Evans, Jackson, Magee, Mckinley, Niedzwiecki, Ledgerton, Champion
Match 11
A.C.Hoylake Vs Shaftsbury Youth
Sunday 18/01/09
Venue: Coronation Park, Greasby
Every game now seems to take on added importance in the John Hardman (Eastham League under 11's division) as we head into the final half of the campaign. We have now developed a head of steam and having only lost a solitary game, along with the other two league leaders, we did not want to lose this one!
Today's match could be described as a "very professional performance" by a Hoylake team that was getting used to winning. The pitch was atrocious but that did not deter our lads and they played some very attractive football at times.
As early as the fifth minute we let the opposition know our intentions... because we scored! The impressive James Niedzwiecki worked hard in the centre of the park and slotted a perfect through ball, to slice open the Shafts defence, and allow Lucas Mckinley to open the scoring. His low shot down to the keepers right was a perfect start for us. Other chances followed from Niedzwiecki and a shot from striker Adam Ledgerton was unfortunate to come back off the post. The majority of the play was certainly in the Shaftsbury half and much of this is down to the wonderful defensive work shown. Both of our man-of-the-match awards were taken by defenders today and this was a true refection of our great back four. Lee Evans was again a rock in the centre with Harry Ellice-Clarke who not only cleared our lines but produced some very intelligent passes throughout the game. Full backs Jack Heywood, (switching to central defence in the second half), and Daniel Goldston were excellent. Goldston certainly caught the eye with his quality in tackling and distribution and thoroughly deserved his man-of-the-match award from the coaches. Our second came approximately 4 minutes from the end of the half. Ellice-Clarke won a crucial tackle and played a great ball to the left wing for Reece Magee. An inspired decision by the coaching staff to switch Magee to the left wing from his striker position paid dividends He ran skilfully down the left and unleashed a super shot to the goalies right to give him no chance. 2-0 and there was more to come before the half! The third was a result of fine work on the right wing between Felix Jackson, who seems to shine no matter what position he is asked to play, and Charlie Watt. A neat interchange of passes led to Reece Magee's second and the game was all but won at half time.
The second half should have been much tougher for Hoylake but we coped extremely well with the wind in our faces. I cannot recollect a clear cut opportunity for our opponents throughout the whole match and we continued to compete for every ball. Shafts are not a bad team and certainly have some quality in areas of their team. Their man-of-the-match playmaker in the midfield looked very good on the ball but lacked a good forward to service. Second half substitutes Jake Williams and Lewis Champion continued the excellent play. Williams working hard and breaking up attacks and Champion linking up well with his fellow striker and leading goal scoring chances. The final score line of 3-0 was probably a little flattering for Shafts as it was a very comfortable win in the end. Matty Holmes-Irvers in goal did have to make some saves in this match but in reality was not really tested.
Summary: Hoylake consolidate 2nd place as Shafts go down!
Man-of-the-match: Evans and Goldston
Scorers: Magee, 2 and Mckinley, 1.
Team: Holmes-Irvers, Watt, Heywood, Williams, Evans, Ellice-Clarke, Goldston, Mckinley, Niedzwiecki, Magee, Jackson, Ledgerton, Champion.
match 12
Vauxhall Vs A.C. Hoylake
Sunday 31/01/09
Venue: Vauxhall sports club.
Final score 3-0
As the snow started to drift down on a bitterly cold but bright winters day at Vauxhalls rather palatial ground, Hoylake were all too aware of the importance of the top of the table clash. Unfortunately for us we just didn’t turn up mentally for this game and seemed from the outset to have surrendered the lead at kickoff. The normally ever dependable central midfield were lacking drive and vision, this was best typified by the fact that our normal crunching tackles were totally missing. Which with Vauxhall first to every ball and seeming to have endless time on the ball created countless troubles for Hoylake and countless opportunities for Vauxhalls. These opportunities were soon converted to goals with some neat inter work from the Vauxhall midfield the ball came wide and was played in past the keeper who could not do anything about it. It is time to dust ourselves off and move on with the many positives we have and look forward to the better weather and get on with the rest of the season.Summary: Hoylake humbled as victorious Vauxhall vanquish visitors.
Man-of-the-match: Ellice-Clarke
Scorers: Them
Team: Simpson , Watt, Evans, Ellice-Clarke, Goldston, Mckinley, Niedzwiecki, Magee, Jackson, Ledgerton, Fulton,Alman,Haywood .
match 13
Young Lions vs. A.C. Hoylake
venue: Leverhulme
A top of the table clash that turned out to be an awful day both in the footballing sense and the weather was pretty atrocious too! Hoylake never seemed to get to grips with swirling winds and the opposition did cope much better. A.C. were not in an ideal position at the beginning of the game because of the loss of two of our influential defenders. This forced our hand and we had to use Lucas Mckinley as an emergency centre half giving us less bite in the middle of the park. There was no lack of endeavour from the lads but the first half finished without us having a meaningful shot on goal.
The second period should have been more fruitful but 50/50 balls fell to the opposition, clearances were not kind to us and we just never seemed to get control of the ball. This gave Lions heart and they began to gain in confidence. Their man-of-the-match latched onto a through ball and was able to score the only goal of the match. 1-0 to Young Lions who, on the balance of play probably deserved it. However, the unsportsmanlike behaviour from some of their players at the end of the game was not something you like to see in youth football. They obviously must have felt that they had beaten a better side than them to have such aggressive reactions at the final whistle.....we look forward to meeting you again next season Lions!
Lions roar but leave a nasty taste!
Final Score: Young Lions 1-0 A.C. Hoylake
Man-of-the-match: Ledgerton
Team: Simpson, Watt, Williams, Ellice-Clark, Mckinley, Goldston, Fulton, Alman, Niedzwiecki, Magee, Jackson, Ledgerton
match 14
Eastham League Cup
Allport Hawks vs. A.C. Hoylake
15/03/09
Venue: Octel Club, Bromborough
The first cup match for Hoylake was to prove to be a tough game against a side flying high in the other division. Conditions were excellent and the pitch at Octel looked pretty good for this stage of the season.
From the first kick it was evident that both teams were certainly up for it and a fair crowd had turned up to cheer the lads on. In defence it was nice to have both Jack Heywood and Lee Evans back to bolster the back four, along with Harry Ellice-Clark, Jake Williams and Daniel Goldston. In midfield we had Lucas Mckinley back in the middle of the park with James Niedzwiecki and Felix Jackson. On the wings we started with Reece Magee on the left and Charlie Watt on the right. Adam Ledgerton was the lone striker.
Within 5 minutes Hoylake had taken the lead after a well worked move from a corner. Adam played the ball short to Daniel. He was quickly closed down but was able to slot the ball back to Adam who crossed first time with a curling ball. Reece rose brilliantly to head past the stranded keeper. 1-0 but it didn't last long! Within a short time Hawks had levelled the score. Their striker was able to spring the offside trap and beat Matty Holmes-Irvers in goal. Matty proved to have a good day and wouldn't be beaten again with a string of fine saves.
We dominated the first half and played periods of good football and our superior play was rewarded with another goal. A through ball from the centre of our defence was chased down by Adam and he managed to keep the ball out of the hands of the advancing keeper. He still had a lot of work to do and, from a fairly acute angle to the left of the goal, he was able to place his shot over the head of a despairing defender on the line. 2-1 to Hoylake with more to come! The third was a power blaster from Adam from the edge of the box to give us a commanding 3-1 score at the break.
The second half was going to be difficult as Allport piled on the pressure to try and get back into the cup tie. Hoylake have shown time and time again this season that they can be very stubborn defensively and this was the case today. It is hard to single out any individual player for particular praise because collectively we defended superbly. Second half substitutes Michael Draycott and Lewis Champion in midfield worked hard on the wings and the rotation of the middle three between Reece, Lucas, James and Felix kept us fresh enough to repel any threat. Their were plenty of goalmouth scrambles and the Hawks could certainly have capitalised better from these opportunities. However, the final score was justified and Hoylake were well worthy of the win. Well done boys....round 2!
Summary: HAWKS HALLOWED BY A.C. ACES!
Final Score: Allport Hawks 1-3 A.C.Hoylake
Scorers: Ledgerton 2, Magee 1
Man-of-the-match: Ledgerton
Team: Holmes-Irvers, Williams, Goldston, Ellice-Clark, Evans, Heywood, Watt, Champion, Draycott, Niedzwiecki, Mckinley, Jackson, Magee, Ledgerton
