Saturday 27th December 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex Premier League

NEW MILTON TOWN v CHRISTCHURCH

Manager Graham Kemp turned up at New Milton with 18 players and selected this squad:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Adam Wiltshire
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Ben Osborne
10 Russell Cook
11 Paul Rideout

12 Gareth Barnes
14 Dan Taylor
15 Colin Dand
16 Martin Lawrence
17 Elliott Peck

Christchurch started slowly in this Christmas local derby game and New Milton were soon testing Stewart Kearn in the Christchurch goal. Twice in quick succession Callum Burt made Kearn stretch to keep fine shots out and New Milton applied pressure with several corners. Christchurch skipper Dan Crutchley was booked for giving away a foul on the edge of the penalty area but when the free kick was taken the Christchurch defensive wall did their job to keep the strike away from goal. The half ended in controversy when following a Christchurch short corner Mark Smith burst into the area. It appeared to the Christchurch camp that Smith was brought down but the referee booked the midfielder for diving. New Milton were definitely the better team in the first half and perhaps Christchurch were fortunate to go into the break on level terms.

Half time: New Milton Town 0 Christchurch 0

The second half was a different game as Christchurch got the ball down and started to play their passing game. New Milton were reduced to breakaways as Christchurch applied the pressure with James Burden now on the Christchurch right providing several good crosses into the box. One move in particular saw Paul Rideout thread a gem of a pass through to Russell Cook who was thwarted by a brave save from New Milton keeper Rory Anderson. Steve Linpow, Russell Cook and Mark Smith all tried their luck with no success when suddenly New Milton broke out and a fine move ended with Warren Kenna driving home a terrific shot from the edge of the area to give the home side the lead. With less than 15 minutes left Christchurch soon got on level terms. Russell Cook had a good run down the right and as he beat the defender he pulled the cross back to Paul Rideout to strike home from 12 yards. Manager Graham Kemp made his substitutions to look for the win and it was 17-year-old debutant Elliott Peck who had a hand in Christchurch’s second goal. Again down the Christchurch right Peck used his pace to get behind the New Milton defence but his cross was cut out by the use of a defenders hand for a free kick. Up stepped Mark Smith and his expert delivery was met by the head of stooping Chris Dillon to win the game for Christchurch. Although New Milton will surely feel aggrieved to have lost this game Christchurch will believe that their second half performance deserved all three points.


Final score: New Milton Town 1 Christchurch 2

The Bridgeman

Saturday 29th November 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex Premier league

CHRISTCHURCH v HORNDEAN

With Paul Rideout and Gareth Barnes unavailable, Adam Costello, Steve Linpow and Jon Brock injured manager Graham Kemp selected a young side, giving 2 young teenagers, Sam Longman and Adam Wiltshire their starting place this afternoon. The full Christchurch line up:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Sam Longman
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Adam Wiltshire
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Ben Osborne
10 Russell Cook
11 Michael Green

12 Mark Burrows
14 Colin Dand
15 Simon Keates
16 Paul Manning

The first half saw Christchurch start with a kind of lethargic attitude as if they only had to turn up to win and fortunately Stewart Kearn in the home goal was awake to deal with a dangerous cross from the visitors. With a lot off huff & puff going on in midfield it was not until the 20th minute that the first real chance was created when Russell Cook turned on the half way line and ran with the ball until he struck a left foot shot wide of the Horndean keepers right hand post. Horndean however had a few attacks, which led to a chipped shot going just over and another shot being well saved by Stewart Kearn, yet with 23 minutes gone Horndean almost took the lead with a low shot which went inches wide of the far post. This seemed to wake Christchurch up and Russell Cook nodded on a long ball to Michael Green who shot through a defender and low into the Horndean net to give the home side the lead. From here on it was one-way traffic with the only doubt being how many goals would Christchurch score? Dan Taylor and Michael Green combined in a move which ended with the ball being played into Russell Cook. The teenage striker turned his marker and placed his shot into the far corner of the net to double Christchurch’s lead. Right on half time Mark Smith played a one two with Russell Cook, which ended with Smith driving the ball low into the net for the midfielder’s third goal in two games.


Half time: Christchurch 3 Horndean 0

Horndean tried to get back into the game but after 19 minutes of the second half Sam Longman was fouled and from the Mark Smith free kick Russell Cook volleyed home spectacularly. Following this goal the game opened up dramatically with Christchurch pouring forward time after time. With 15 minutes left keeper Stewart Kearn fed skipper Dan Crutchley at the back. Crutchley sent a long ball forward that speedy substitute Marc Burrows chased and hammered through the keeper’s legs to make it five – nil. With some of the Christchurch passing moves being a joy to watch it was perhaps ironic that the final goal was a somewhat scrappy affair with Russell Cook scoring from close range following a goalmouth scramble.

Final score: Christchurch 6 Horndean 0

Christchurch Man of the Match sponsored by “Den’s Diner” RUSSELL COOK


The Bridgeman

Tuesday 25th November 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex League Cup 3rd round

CHRISTCHURCH v BOURNEMOUTH POPPIES

For this important cup game Christchurch manager Graham Kemp started with a strong line up:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Colin Dand
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Steve Linpow
7 Mark Smith
8 Michael Green
9 Russell Cooke
10 Marc Burrows
11 Paul Rideout

12 Ben Osborne
14 James Burden
15 Gareth Barnes
16 Simon Keates
17 Paul Manning

Christchurch started this game brightly and soon put the Poppies goal under pressure. Several corners were gained and the ball swung menacingly into the danger area. It came as little surprise when Christchurch took the lead in the 10th minute. Colin Dand fed Marc Burrows wide on the right, and the quick striker crossed for midfielder Dan Crutchley to thrash the ball past Kenny Vaughan in the Poppies goal. The Christchurch attacks continued and at times the Poppies defending was bordering on desperate however the away side did break away and a shot cannoned back off Stewart Kearn’s bar. Towards the end of the first half Chris Dillon doubled Christchurch’s lead. Mark Smith crossed the ball and as it passed over several heads Dillon reacted quickly to fire home. Still time for Marc Burrows and Paul Rideout to combine and prize open the Poppies defence again but the chance was wasted.

Half time: Christchurch 2 Bournemouth Poppies 0

As the temperature dropped still further little did we expect the second half goal rush. In the first minute following the break Paul Rideout lobbed the ball goalwards but with the Poppies defence desperately covering the ball dropped just over the crossbar. A few minutes later Michael Green’s determination resulted in a corner on the left. A short corner routine involving Paul Rideout and Mark Smith ended when Smith hit a low near post drive which put Christchurch three goals up. With Christchurch skipper Dan Crutchley off the pitch having treatment for a head injury Poppies got their only goal of the night. Paul Roberts sent a glorious through ball to the lightening fast Kabba Jack who struck a good finish to pull a goal back. Almost immediately at the other end Russell Cook turned and slipped the ball through for Mark Smith to hit his second of the night. With 19 minutes of the second half gone Cook again turned his marker but this time was brought down and a penalty awarded. Paul Rideout easily made it 5 – 1 with the spot kick. As the Christchurch side relaxed Stewart Kearn had to make a couple of smart saves before substitute Ben Osborne notched two late goals. Mark Smith put the forward through and Osborne’s finish was pure class as he lifted the ball over the advancing keeper and then Smith again played a great ball across for Osborne to slide the ball home to finish the scoring.


Final score: Christchurch 7 Bournemouth Poppies 1

Christchurch Man of the Match sponsored by “Den’s Diner:” MARK SMITH

The Bridgeman

Another injury, this time to Ben Osborne meant Marc Burrows started. Two more teenagers Sam Longman and Adam Wiltshire made their debuts in this game as manager Graham Kemp named this line up:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Colin Dand
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Russell Cook
10 Mark Burrows
11 Dan Taylor

12 Paul Manning
14 Gareth Barnes
15 Sam Longman
16 Adam Wiltshire


Christchurch found it difficult to come to terms with Lymington Towns all action style of football. As Lymington pumped high ball after high ball at the Christchurch defence the defenders continually made mistakes. It looked only a matter of time before Lymington scored and they came close on several occasions. The home side were working extremely hard and tackling ferociously to keep their grip on the game but Russell Cook turned the game on its head just before half time. The signs were that Christchurch were beginning to get their passing game together in the final 10 minutes of the half and they looked particularly dangerous at set plays. James Burden was fouled and Mark Smith fed the ball into Cook from the resulting free kick. With his back to goal Cook turned his marker one way and he went the other and released a left foot shot which was deflected and looped over the keeper to give Christchurch what was in all fairness an undeserved half time lead.

Half time: Lymington Town 0 Christchurch 1

The second half saw Christchurch improved dramatically for the second game running. Six minutes in and a good passing move from right to left delivered the ball to Michael Green’s feet just inside the penalty area. As Green cut back inside and onto his right foot the defender stuck out his leg to bring the Christchurch player down for an obvious penalty. With regular penalty taker Paul Rideout suspended and watching from the sidelines it was Marc Burrow’s responsibility to take the spot kick. Burrows made no mistake as he doubled Christchurch’s lead. Just 15 minutes into the second period and Christchurch made sure of the three points. Stewart Kearn saved well and dropped kicked the ball to Russell Cook whose header put Marc Burrows in the clear. Burrows used his pace and scored with a good left footed finish to make the score 3 – 0 to “The Priory.” Christchurch could now relax and they played some good football and manager Kemp used the opportunity to blood two more teenagers when Sam Longman and Adam Wiltshire made their debuts. Lymington however never gave up the fight and Stewart Kearn ensured his clean sheet when he saved down low to his left from a Lymington free kick.

Final score: Lymington Town 0 Christchurch 3

This victory resulted in Christchurch rising to seventh position in the league.

The Bridgeman

With Paul Rideout suspended, Adam Costello, Simon Keates and Jon Brock all injured and Gareth Barnes unavailable manager Graham Kemp brought back Colin Dand from injury and called up teenager Jacques Bernard for his debut taste of first team competitive football. The full Christchurch line up:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Colin Dand
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Ben Osborne
10 Russell Cook
11 Dan Taylor

12 Mark Burrows
14 Paul Manning
15 Ross Drew
16 Jacques Bernard

The first half saw Christchurch a bit out of sorts with several players under performing yet the home side still created scoring opportunities with Mark Smith, Marc Burrows and Michael Green all having chances to open the scoring. It was not all one-way traffic however and Stewart Kearn had to make a couple of smart saves to keep the game scoreless. Cowes put the pressure on just before half time when first they hit the bar and then forced another good save from Kearn. The last action of the half saw Michael Green smash the ball against the corner of the post and crossbar with a fierce shot and Dan Crutchley shoot over.

Half time: Christchurch 0 Cowes Sports 0

The second half saw a different Christchurch as they moved the ball quicker and created chances following some delightful passing moves. Six minutes into the second period and James Burden beat two players out on the right wing but his cross was cut out at the expense of a corner. Michael Green’s kick was headed out to Mark Smith whose shot was blocked with the rebound going back to Green who crossed once more into the goal area. Russell Cook rose majestically to put a textbook header past the Cowes keeper and into the net to give “The Priory” the lead. Cook was now looking as if he was enjoying his afternoon’s work and one piece of sublime Cook magic out on the right touchline resulted in a Cowes defender kicking at fresh air as the young forward left him in his wake. Marc Burrows had a couple of shots blocked and then he was fouled as he latched onto a Chris Dillon pass. Mark Smith’s free kick was headed back to him and Smith’s second shot was blocked but skipper Dan Crutchley followed up to gleefully score his first goal of the season. Cowes were putting together some fine attacks themselves and Stewart Kearn was quite busy keeping them at bay especially when the stopper make a great double save to ensure Christchurch remained two goals ahead. Smith and Burrows then combined with Burrows crossing from the left to Cook who scored his second of the afternoon. Seventeen-year-old Jacques Bernard came on for his debut and hopefully the first of many appearances. Just when it looked as if Kearn was going to keep a well deserved clean sheet, Cowes scored from a header right on full time.

Final score: Christchurch 3 Cowes Sports 1

Christchurch Man of the Match sponsored by “Den’s Diner” RUSSELL COOK

Saturday 1st November 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex premier

ROMSEY TOWN v CHRISTCHURCH

This game was abandoned at half time due to the rain:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 John Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Ben Osborne
10 Russell Cook
11 Paul Rideout

12 Mark Burrows
14 Dan Taylor
15 Martin Lawrence
16 Paul Manning
17 Colin Dand

The game started with the rain lashing down but that did not stop both sides playing at a high tempo. Christchurch were using the wings to good effect and crosses from James Burden, Russell Cook and Steve Linpow almost created chances in the Romsey box. Michael Green fed Russell Cook who whilst having his shirt pulled could not get in a decent strike. Then Mark Smith made the keeper get down low to save his shot. At the other end Jon Brock got in an important block and following a poor Christchurch free kick Stewart Kearn did well to save with his legs after a flowing breakaway from Romsey. Christchurch had created more and looked the most likely to win this game.

Half time: Romsey Town 0 Christchurch 0


The referee used the interval to test the conditions on the pitch. He amazed everyone by calling the game off after this. 30 minutes later with the persistence of the rain unrelenting it was clear that referee Craig Burton had made the correct decision to abandon the game at half time.


The Bridgeman

Tuesday 28th October 2008 Sydenham’s Wessex premier

BEMERTON HEATH HARLEQUINS v CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch arrived at Bemerton before the home team and entry to the ground was not permitted until an hour and a quarter before kick off. Christchurch line up:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 John Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Gareth Barnes
10 Ben Osborne
11 Paul Rideout

12 Russell Cooke
14 Marc Burrows
15 Martin Lawrence
16 Dan Taylor
17 Paul Manning

The game started at a fast pace with both sides passing the ball about and attacking with menace. With 15 minutes gone Paul Rideout broke down the left and his cross was expertly headed home by James Burden to give Christchurch a deserved lead. Burden has now played on this ground twice and scored in both games. On 34 minutes Bemerton equalised with a crashing strike from well outside the penalty area.

Half time: Bemerton Heath Harlequins 1 Christchurch 1

Christchurch were well worth their victory in this game courtesy of their second half performance. Defending in strength when they had to and attacking dangerously at the other end by using the flanks to great effect. However, it was not until 16 minutes from the end that Christchurch bagged the winner. James Burden broke down the left and crossed perfectly for Ben Osborne to side foot home. A better performance than of late from Christchurch got the result that their efforts deserved.

Final score: Bemerton Heath Harlequins 1 Christchurch 2


The Bridgeman

Tuesday 21st October 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex league cup 2nd round

CHRISTCHURCH v AMESBURY TOWN

Following three successive defeats Christchurch manager Graham Kemp started with a this line up. :

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Jon Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Gareth Barnes
10 Ben Osborne
11 Paul Rideout

12 Marc Burrows
14 Russell Cook
15 Michael Green
16 Martin Lawrence
17 Paul Manning

This game commenced with Amesbury beginning brightly but Christchurch soon began to carve out chances. Steve Linpow’s header set Ben Osborne on a run where he rounded a defender, rounded the keeper but saw his goal bound shot cleared off the line at the expense of a corner. Other shooting opportunities went to Dan Taylor, Steve Linpow, Jon Brock and Mark Smith but Christchurch could not open the scoring. It was not all one way traffic and Amesbury had a shot just over the bar quickly followed by another strike on goal going just wide of the target. With the clock fast approaching half time two defensive errors in the Amesbury rearguard allowed Paul Rideout the chance to smash the ball home to give Christchurch the lead.

Half time: Christchurch 1 Amesbury Town 0


The second half saw a much-improved performance from Christchurch as they passed the ball about well and created a hatful of decent chances. Mark Smith, Marc Burrows, Gareth Barnes, Paul Rideout, James Burden and Russell Cook all had good opportunities in the second half. A delightful move started with an excellent Mark Smith pass out wide to Paul Rideout whose cross into the box picked out Gareth Barnes. The big centre forwards shot was well saved and the ball rebounded to Marc Burrows who struck the ball over the bar. Following a long ball out of defence Paul Rideout made no mistake with a strong finish to score his and Christchurch’s second goal of the evening. However Amesbury pulled one back with a great turn and finish to keep the final result in doubt. Substitute Russell Cook was running the visitor’s defence ragged and with 5 minutes of time remaining Marc Burrows restored the two goal advantage with a cool finish after latching onto a Rideout pass. Still Amesbury would not concede defeat and they scored their second with a header from a corner kick. Consecutive free kicks to Amesbury meant that Christchurch had to defend right to the end of the match but in reality the home side should have finished their brave opponents off long before then.

Final score: Christchurch 3 Amesbury Town 2

Christchurch Man of the Match sponsored by “Den’s Diner:” PAUL RIDEOUT

The Bridgeman

Saturday 18th October 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex premier

ALTON TOWN v CHRISTCHURCH

With the injury list including Colin Dand, Adam Costello and Simon Keates and with Mark Smith unavailable Christchurch lined up like this:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 John Brock
7 Martin Lawrence
8 Michael Green
9 Gareth Barnes
10 Richard Cook
11 Paul Rideout

12 Marc Burrows
14 Ben Osborne
15 James Burden
16 Paul Manning


Christchurch made the worst possible start to this game when in their first attack Alton Town won a corner. The quickly taken short corner was not picked up by the sleepy Christchurch team and as a result the oldest man on the pitch, Alton’s manager, had the time and space to pick his spot as he slammed an unstoppable shot into the top corner for the opening goal. From here on in things just got worse in a woeful first 45 minutes for Christchurch. On 21 minutes failure to defend effectively led to a penalty being awarded to the home side despite Christchurch appealing for an earlier handball. Now two goals down Christchurch had to score to get something out of the game yet good chances came and went without the Alton keeper having to make a save in the first half. With the clock ticking down and the Christchurch supporters hoping to get to half time just two goals to the worse again a defensive error led to Alton thumping the ball into the back of the Christchurch net. Three nil down – please blow the whistle for half time! Still just time for Alton’s centre forward to smack a shot against the post! An absolutely abysmal first half performance from Christchurch.


Half time: Alton Town 3 Christchurch 0

Six minutes into the second half and Christchurch got the lifeline that they needed. Following a corner on the right the ball came out to Russell Cook who drove for the by-line. Cook’s cross was cleared as far as Paul Rideout who thumped the ball home to get Christchurch back into the game. Three minutes later and Rideout fed Jon Brock who when turning the defender was clearly pulled back. Brock continued to run on and was then pulled down with the referee awarding a penalty. Following the booking of the Alton player the referee consulted his assistant and changed his original decision to a free kick outside the box because the first offence had occurred there. The resulting free kick came to nothing. Christchurch were playing better this half but their cause was not helped when Paul Rideout received a red card for alleged foul & abusive language. Still Christchurch attacked and following a great run and cross by Jon Brock the second goal was scored from close range by Ben Osborne. Despite a few half chances and several shots Christchurch could not break down the Alton rearguard before the final whistle.

Final score: Alton Town 3 Christchurch 2



The Bridgeman

Saturday 11th October 2008 Sydenham’s Wessex Premier

NEWPORT (Isle of Wight) v CHRISTCHURCH

Manager Graham Kemp who was without injured players Colin Dand, Adam Costello and Simon Keates also had Mark Smith and Gareth Barnes unavailable.

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Martin Lawrence
7 Ross Drew
8 James Burden
9 Ben Osborne
10 Marc Burrows
11 Paul Rideout

12 Jon Brock
14 Russell Cook
15 Paul Manning
16 Dan Taylor
17 Joe Prodomo

This game was played on the large Newport pitch in blazing sunshine. The fast tempo of the game and the referee’s insistence to blow his whistle at every opportunity led to a start stop affair in the first half. Half chances fell to Ben Osborne, Marc Burrows and Martin Lawrence but it was poor defending that allowed the home side to take the lead. With 20 minutes played the Christchurch back line failed to clear and the resulting soft goal came as no real surprised. The under performing Christchurch side found it difficult to get any real passing moves going but when they did they equalised. With half an hour gone Ross Drew fed Paul Rideout wide on the right. Rideout sent Marc Burrows scampering down the line and Burrow’s first time cross was met by Ben Osborne who headed the ball back across Newport keeper Sam Webb and into the corner of the net.

Half time: Newport (Isle of Wight) 1 Christchurch 1


The second half was a non affair as far as Christchurch were concerned. A rather lethargic 45 minutes meant that they came out of this game with exactly what they deserved. Nothing! Poor defending throughout the team allowed Newport to run with the ball through the tepid Christchurch midfield, which set up two goals in two minutes resulting in a win for the home side.

Final score: Newport (Isle of Wight) 3 Christchurch 1

A match best forgotten!

The Bridgeman

Tuesday 30th September 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex League Premier

LAVERSTOCK & FORD v CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch manager Graham Kemp selected a side that he was sure would continue their good run of form:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Colin Dand
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Steve Linpow
6 John Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 Michael Green
9 Gareth Barnes
10 Ben Osborne
11 Paul Rideout

12 Russell Cooke
14 Marc Burrows
15 James Burden
16 Chris Dillon
17 Steve Strong

A great first half performance meant that Christchurch had won this game before half time. Playing up the slight slope with the wind and driving rain at their backs Christchurch carried on as they had left of at Moneyfields on Saturday. Good passing and great movement soon paid dividends and it was Paul Rideout who gave ‘Church the lead after just 13 minutes. Colin Dand and Mark Smith combined well and Smith slipped the ball through to Ben Osborne. As Osborne appeared to be fouled the ball ran to Rideout and with the referee playing advantage the Christchurch wide man smashed the ball home with a high shot to the keepers right. With Gareth Barnes and Michael Green spurning scoring opportunities it was Ben Osborne who extended Christchurch’s lead in the 23rd minute. Green sent over a glorious cross from the left and Osborne headed home convincingly. Steve Linpow was unfortunate when he met Mark Smith’s centre but saw his looped header come back off the bar. Just before half time Ben Osborne fed Michael Green who ran on and made no mistake from close range.

Half time: Laverstock & Ford 0 Christchurch 3

Christchurch were well worth their half time lead and perhaps inevitably they relaxed in the
second half. Their usual passing game turned into a long ball version and the ball was continually given away. Laverstock never gave up and were probably the better side in the second period.
Their reward came when they scored a decent goal with a good volley. Christchurch had opportunities to score again but Barnes, Osborne and substitute Steve Strong failed to capitalise on the chances created. It was left to substitute Russell Cooke to score the final goal of this
game. He had only been on the pitch for a minute when he struck a delightful shot past the Laverstock keeper.

Final score: Laverstock & Ford 1 Christchurch 4

This victory took Christchurch up to 7th in the league and September has been a great month with the 7 games played resulting in 6 victories and 1 draw.


The Bridgeman

Saturday 27th September 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex League Premier

MONEYFIELDS v CHRISTCHURCH

Injuries to full back Adam Costello, centre half Chris Dillon and midfielder Simon Keates meant that Christchurch lined up like this:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Colin Dand
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Steve Linpow
6 John Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Gareth Barnes
10 Marc Burrows
11 Paul Rideout

12 Russell Cooke
14 Ben Osborne
15 Steve Strong
16 Dan Taylor
17 Ross Drew

In the brilliant sunshine on the lush green pitch Christchurch struggled to come to terms with a fluent Moneyfields side in the first half. Moneyfields were unbeaten in the league and Christchurch seemed content to sit back and soak up the pressure as Moneyfields kept the ball but Christchurch seemed to give it away at almost every opportunity. Yet for all that Moneyfields created very little in the way of goalscoring opportunities and when they did they could not get past the giant figure of Stewart Kearn in the Christchurch goal. The Christchurch side were working extremely hard in the hot temperatures and surely something would have to change in the second half if Christchurch were to get anything out of this game.

Half time: Moneyfields 0 Christchurch 0

And change they did. Christchurch came out and had a go at Moneyfields in the second half. As early as 5 minutes in a Mark Smith free kick found Dan Crutchley at the far post but the skipper could not direct his header on target whilst under pressure from the defender. With half an hour left Christchurch changed their front two strikers and the fresh legs of Russell Cooke and Ben Osborne created problems for the Moneyfields defence. Almost immediately Cooke broke down the left and his cross was controlled by Paul Rideout in the Moneyfields penalty area. Rideout took his time and expertly picked his spot as he drove the ball past the Moneyfields keeper and into the net to give Christchurch the lead. Ten minutes later Russell Cooke had the ball in the Moneyfields net but the assistant referee rather harshly adjudged Cooke to have handled the ball and the goal was disallowed. It was not all one way traffic and at the other end Kearn made several important saves to keep Moneyfields at bay. The home side were by now getting frustrated with their inability to get past the Christchurch defence and the visitors were creating several chances for themselves. Jon Brock, James Burden, Mark Smith and Russell Cooke all had half chances to wrap the game up but it was not until ten minutes from time that Christchurch scored their second. Russell Cooke again attacked with menace down the left flank and his determination ensured he crossed the ball into the box where a defender headed it away to just outside the penalty area. Mark Smith picked the ball up and struck a magnificent left footed shot past the stationary Moneyfields keeper to double Christchurch’s lead and finally kill the game.

Final score: Moneyfields 0 Christchurch 2

Footnote: I was privileged to be in the changing room to witness manager Graham Kemp’s half time talk. I thought his tactics were spot on and after he had ripped into his side for their under par first half performance he set about telling the players how they could and should win the game. Credit to all the players as they took on board what their manager had told them and more importantly applied those instructions on the pitch. Well done lads on a fantastic result.

The Bridgeman

Tuesday 16th September 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex League Cup 1st Round

CHRISTCHURCH v HYTHE & DIBDEN

For this important cup game Christchurch manager Graham Kemp started with a strong line up. Only centre forward Gareth Barnes was unavailable due to suspension:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Jon Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Russell Cooke
10 Marc Burrows
11 Michael Green

12 Martin Lawrence
14 Paul Rideout
15 Steve Strong
16 Simon Keates
17 Ben Osborne

This game started with Christchurch attacking and creating chances from the off but good defending and great goalkeeping kept the Priory at bay. Although Hythe & Dibden play in the division below Christchurch they showed enough to ensure that Christchurch would have to work hard to get a result. As early as the 8th minute Stewart Kearn in the Christchurch goal made the first of several great saves when he tipped a shot, that was destined for the top left corner of the net, over the bar. At the other end decent chances fell to Russell Cooke, Marc Burrows, Michael Green, Jon Brock and Chris Dillon but Christchurch could not beat the opposition keeper.

Half time: Christchurch 0 Hythe & Dibden 0


The second half saw Hythe & Dibden come even more into the game and at one time they looked to be the dominant side. Chances came and went but neither team could beat either of the two excellent goalkeepers. At one moment it was Stewart Kearn tipping another goal bound shot over the bar and then at the other end substitute Ben Osborne must have thought he had scored when he met James Burden’s cross perfectly on the volley only for the Hythe keeper to make a tremendous reflex save. However Osborne was not to be denied and with 36 minutes of the second half gone Christchurch finally broke the deadlock. Mark Smith found space on the left and turned back to cross with his right foot to the far post where Russell Cooke headed the ball back into the six yard box and Ben Osborne supplied the finishing touch to score from close range. From here on Hythe & Dibden threw caution to the wind and attacked with increasing numbers. Just when it seemed as if they would run out of time Hythe crossed from their left and the centre forward placed a shot back across Stewart Kearn and into the net to take the tie into extra time.

Score after 90 minutes: Christchurch 1 Hythe & Dibden 1

Extra time produced more excellent football from both sides and Christchurch regained the lead 4 minutes in when Russell Cooke went on a run, which took him into the penalty area. As Cooke went down to the appeals for a penalty, Mark Smith drove the loose ball into the back of the net. Hythe & Dibden refused to give in and again created several chances especially in the second period of extra time when a shot rebounded from Stewart Kearn’s upright. With time running out and Christchurch running the ball into the corners to eat up precious seconds it looked as if the goal scoring for the evening was over. Russell Cooke had other ideas and when he was played through he outwitted two defenders and the keeper to ensure Christchurch reached the next round.

Final score: Christchurch 3 Hythe & Dibden 1

Christchurch Man of the Match sponsored by “Den’s Diner:” STEWART KEARN

The Bridgeman

Saturday 13th September 2008 Sydenham’s Wessex League Premier division

CHRISTCHURCH v FAREHAM TOWN

For this important league game manager Graham Kemp was without centre forward Gareth Barnes who was sitting out the first of a three-match suspension:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 John Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Russell Cooke
10 Mark Burrows
11 Michael Green

12 Martin Lawrence
14 Paul Rideout
15 Steve Strong
16 Simon Keates
GK Joe Prodomo

The game started brightly with both sides passing the ball about. Fareham seemed to have gained the upper hand in midfield but Christchurch seemed the more likely to score. Chances were created for both sides as play flowed from end to end but neither side could break the deadlock in the first half.

Half time: Christchurch 0 Fareham Town 0


The second half opened with a bang. In the first minute Michael Green’s tenacity won a throw down the Christchurch left. From the throw Mark Smith crossed to the far post where James Burden headed the ball back across goal to Russell Cooke. The teenage striker made no mistake as he controlled with his chest and then volleyed the ball into the corner of the net to give the home side the lead. Following the goal Fareham applied pressure on the home goal and Stewart Kearn had to be alert to keep the visitors out. Christchurch’s second goal came from an unexpected source. Russell Cooke sent in a superb cross from the left and advancing full back Steve Linpow volleyed home spectacularly to double Christchurch’s lead. Although Fareham were still playing delightful football in the midfield areas they just didn’t seem to have enough about them to break down the Christchurch defence. Marc Burrows got his reward for an afternoon of hard work when he broke clear of the Fareham back four and coolly planted the ball past the keeper and into the back of the Fareham net. Still time for Fareham to gain a consolation goal when a near post corner was headed home.

Final score: Christchurch 3 Fareham Town 1

Christchurch Man of the Match sponsored by “Den’s Diner” STEVE LINPOW

The Bridgeman

Monday 25th August 2008 Sydenham’s Wessex premier

WIMBORNE TOWN v CHRISTCHURCH

Injuries to full back Adam Costello and centre half Chris Dillon meant that manager Graham Kemp had to change his line up yet again, although left back Dan Taylor returned after injury:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Colin Dand
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Steve Linpow
6 John Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Gareth Barnes
10 Russell Cooke
11 Simon Keates

12 Mark Burrows
14 Martin Lawrence
15 Jon Blake
16 Paul Rideout
17 Andy Borthwick

Once again Christchurch were caught cold at the start and Wimborne’s ex Christchurch player Liam Green should really have scored after just 15 seconds but Stewart Kearn made the first of many important saves. When Christchurch settled down Russell Cooke saw his shot well saved by Alan Walker Harris in the Wimborne goal. Tackles started flying in during this tense local derby as both sides created chances. Stewart Kearn continued to deny Wimborne with some fine saves and also claiming all the crosses that came his way. When Kearn was beaten Colin Dand was on the line to clear for a corner. Both Gareth Barnes and Russell Cooke saw chances go close at the other end until the 28th minute when Cooke turned his marker and drove a fierce shot, which cannoned of the bottom of the crossbar. The ball bounced on the ground and hung in the air for Barnes to attack and put his header high into the Wimborne net. And how ex Wimborne player Barnes celebrated!

Half time: Wimborne Town 0 Christchurch 1

The second half was just 6 minutes old when Christchurch extended their lead. Simon Keates fed Russell Cooke on the right and Cookes intelligent pull back was met by the advancing Jon Brock who scored his first goal in Christchurch colours. Suddenly the belief was there that Christchurch could win this game and despite heavy Wimborne pressure mainly from corners and long throw ins, the boys in blue managed to hold on for victory. Wimborne did get a goal back from a stooping header following a corner but all in all a fine performance and a great result from Christchurch.

Final score: Wimborne Town 1 Christchurch 2

The Bridgeman

Friday 22nd August 2008 Sydenham’s Wessex premier

CHRISTCHURCH v BROCKENHURST

This first home league game of the season was played at Hurn Bridge on a Friday evening which attracted a larger than average crowd. With both full backs out injured manager Graham Kemp selected the following Christchurch line up:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 Jon Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Gareth Barnes
10 Russell Cooke
11 Simon Keates

12 Mark Burrows
14 Martin Lawrence
15 Steve Strong
16 Jon Blake
17 Pat Blackmore

This game saw some excellent passing from both sides with a lack of cutting edge in the final third of the pitch. Brockenhurst did have the ball in the back of the Christchurch net after 22 minutes but the fine move was disallowed for offside. Just two minutes later at the other end of the pitch Gareth Barnes saw his thumping header cleared of the line with ex Christchurch keeper Max Frampton beaten. Later in the first half Jon Brock created space on the right and crossed for Steve Linpow to attack the ball at the far post. Alas for Christchurch Linpow’s shot was just wide of the near post.

Half time: Christchurch 0 Brockenhurst 0

The second half saw much of the same as Barnes again saw a header cleared of the line. At the end of the game it was stalemate and Christchurch gained their 3rd draw in 4 league games.


Final score: Christchurch 0 Brockenhurst 0

Christchurch Man of the Match: JON BROCK

The Bridgeman

Tuesday 19th August 2008 Sydenham’s Wessex premier

POOLE TOWN v CHRISTCHURCH

Injuries to both full backs meant that manager Graham Kemp had to change his line up after the successful FA cup game:

1 Stewart Kearn
2 Steve Linpow
3 Michael Green
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Chris Dillon
6 John Brock
7 Mark Smith
8 James Burden
9 Gareth Barnes
10 Russell Cooke
11 Paul Rideout

12 Mark Burrows
14 Martin Lawrence
15 Paul Manning
16 Simon Keates
17 Steve Strong


The game started dramatically with Poole attacking from the first whistle. As the ball came across the penalty area John Brock appeared to be blatantly pushed in the back and as players from both sides stopped the ball ended in the back of the net with the referee allowing the goal. This was far from the last contentious decision that the official would make during this game. For most of the remainder of the first half Christchurch played the ball around and made chances against a strong and powerful side. During this purple patch shots were desperately cleared off the line, Gareth Barnes hit the post, Russell Cook saw his shot saved and the rebound bounce off James Burden before he could react. As we all know football is a funny old game and following Poole’s first corner near the end of the half poor marking allowed the home side to double their lead. Worse was to follow when Gareth Barnes received a red card for an alleged elbow incident.

Half time: Poole Town 2 Christchurch 0

The second half saw Poole Town start to take advantage of the extra man and they added a third through a good move and an excellent far post finish. Christchurch refused to lie down however and with the excellent Russell Cook running the Poole defenders ragged they attacked and passed the ball around to create panic in the Poole penalty area on several occasions. However, all this was to no avail and when a Poole defender chopped down Cook from behind and escaped without so much as a booking then the Christchurch team were left with the feeling of what might have been.

Final score: Poole Town 3 Christchurch 0

The Bridgeman

Tuesday 1st April 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex League
Premier division

CHRISTCHURCH v AFC TOTTON

Following the previous Saturday’s disappointing home defeat manager Graham Kemp made a few changes to his starting line up:

1 Jason Collins
2 Ross Walliss
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley
5 Chris Dillon
6 Lloyd Jenvey (capt)
7 Andy Borthwick
8 Paul Manning
9 Russell Cook
10 Marc Burrows
11 Paul Rideout

12 Steve Linpow
14 Zach Glasspool
15 Martin Lawrence
16 Colin Dand
17 Harry Rolph


The first half started off at an extremely fast pace which continued throughout the evening. The big, strong, physical attributes of Totton were used to the full and just 15 minutes into the match Andy Borthwick found his game over when following an alleged elbow incident he was taken to hospital to have several stitches put in a cut above his eye. Shortly after this Dan Crutchley went down from a “leading arm” foul challenge but recovered to continue the match. Totton were always dangerous going forwards and their pace and movement was as one would expect from a side chasing the league championship. At times Christchurch’s defending was bordering on the desperate and in the 25th minute Totton opened the scoring. A cross from the right was expertly volleyed home to give the visitors the lead. If Totton thought Christchurch were going to lie down then they were very much mistaken and 5 minutes before half time an equaliser was scored. A Chris Dillon long throw caught ex Christchurch keeper Gareth Barfoot out in the Totton goal and Marc Burrows crept in to somehow slide the ball home off some part of his anatomy! Right on half time Jason Collins saved well low down to his left.

Half time: Christchurch 1 AFC Totton 1

The second half saw AFC Totton come out with even more determination to win the game but it was Christchurch who unexpectedly took the lead. Paul Rideout raced down the right and brilliantly played Marc Burrows in. Burrows, whose pace had troubled the giant Totton defenders all evening outstripped his marker and placed the ball beyond Barfoot and into the net. Totton appeared to be stunned and then continued to press the Christchurch defence for the remainder of the match. With an hour played Totton grabbed a controversial equaliser. As Christchurch keeper Jason Collins came well off his line to collect a through ball the Totton forward robustly challenged with studs held dangerously high and collided with the teenage keeper resulting in the ball slowly rolling over the line to even the score. Totton were now in the ascendancy and a shot smashed against Collin’s left hand post and then a Totton free kick was hammered against the crossbar. The winning goal came near the end of this pulsating game and it was a goal worthy of winning any game. A cracking shot from 25 yards gave Collins no chance and how Totton celebrated! There was still time for a vociferous penalty appeal for Christchurch to be turned down before this exciting game came to a close.

Final score: Christchurch 2 AFC Totton 3

A superb game in which all the Christchurch players stood up to be counted against what is surely the Champions elect.

The Bridgeman

Monday 24th March 2008
New Milton Town v Christchurch


For this Easter Monday mid-day kick off manager Graham Kemp selected the following line up:

1 Jason Collins
2 Colin Dand
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley (capt)
5 Steve Linpow
6 Ryan Woodford
7 Andy Borthwick
8 Paul Rideout
9 Richard Cooke
10 Marc Burrows
11 James Burden

12 Paul Manning
14 Lloyd Jenvey
15 Zach Glasspool
16 Ross Walliss
17 Martin Lawrence


From the first kick off eighteen year old keeper Jason Collins had to be alert to the New Milton attack being led by ex Christchurch striker Robbie Woolner. Collins made several good saves during the match and his handling was exemplary during the first period when Christchurch were continually on the back foot. Paul Rideout, Russell Cooke and Marc Burrows all had half chances at the other end as Christchurch countered without any real menace.

Half time: New Milton Town 0 Christchurch 0

The second half saw more of Christchurch as an attacking force but they had to wait until ten minutes from the end of the game before they took the lead. Zach Glasspool had just come off the bench to replace Richard Cooke. Glasspool won a tackle in midfield and sent Marc Burrows away down the right, Burrows cleverly beat his man before sending in a great cross for Glasspool to score in the corner of the net with a crisp left foot shot. A couple of minutes later and Collins pulled off the save of the match when he dived full length to his right to tip away a Woolner shot. Christchurch could have extended their lead first when James Burden smashed a shot against the crossbar and then when Martin Lawrence was put through but having delayed his shot too long the chance was gone. Just before the final whistle New Milton’s full back was red carded as Christchurch cantered home.

Superb team defending, with skipper Dan Crutchley excellent at the heart of the defence, good goalkeeping and a well taken goal at the other end were the ingredients for this well earned three points.

Final score: New Milton Town 0 Christchurch 1

The Bridgeman

Bemerton Heath Harlequins v Christchurch


Although players such as Adam Costello, Russell Cooke, Steve Linpow and Rory Anderson were all injured manager Graham Kemp still had a strong squad from which to select the following line up:

1 Jason Collins
2 Colin Dand
3 Chris Dillon
4 Dan Crutchley
5 Ross Wallis
6 Lloyd Jenvey (capt)
7 Andy Borthwick
8 Martin Lawrence
9 Zach Glasspool
10 Marc Burrows
11 James Burden

12 Paul Rideout
14 Dan Taylor
15 Les Wallace
16 Rudi Reis
17 Paul Manning


Eighteen year old Jason Collins replaced the injured Rory Anderson in goal and James Burden recently signed from Bashley made his debut on the left of the midfield. Brazilian newcomer Rudi Reis was on the bench.

Christchurch took a time to settle in this match and appeared to be at odds with the 3 – 5 – 2 formation that they played. Whilst the defence looked to be giving the Bemerton forwards too much room at times, when attacking Christchurch put together some exciting passing moves. And so it was when 12 minutes into the game a great move ended when Andy Borthwick fed the ball through to Zach Glasspool whose shot went just over the bar. Bemerton attacked down the left flank and a low cross deceived Jason Collins in the Christchurch goal to give the home side the early lead. The young keeper went on to make several good catches and saves during the first half. Christchurch got stronger as a unit and Glasspool hit the post with the Bemerton keeper well beaten. Martin Lawrence had a long shot well saved and then with 39 minutes gone a terrific series of passes saw Christchurch equalise. Andy Borthwick put skipper Lloyd Jenvey through in the left channel. Jenvey crossed low for Dan Crutchley to intelligently roll the ball back to James Burden who joyfully smashed home his debut goal to level the scores.

Half time: Bemerton Heath Harlequins 1 Christchurch 1

The second period started with a bang in the 2nd minute as Marc Burrows expertly lobbed the Bemerton keeper to give Christchurch the lead. For most of the half Christchurch passed the ball well and kept Bemerton under pressure. Glasspool, Burrows and Lawrence all went close to increasing Christchurch’s lead but the half ended when the ball was given away in midfield and Bemerton scored with a viscous cross shot to earn their share of the points. Christchurch were by far the better side for long periods of this game but they just couldn’t find the killer instinct to score the third goal and kill their opponents off.

Final score: Bemerton Heath Harlequins 2 Christchurch 2

The Bridgeman

Tuesday 26th February 2008
Sydenham’s Wessex League premier division

CHRISTCHURCH v BRADING TOWN

Following two disappointing performances both culminating in heavy defeats manager Graham Kemp made a few changes to his starting line up:

1 Rory Anderson
2 Colin Dand
3 Dan Taylor
4 Dan Crutchley
5 Steve Linpow
6 Lloyd Jenvey
7 Garry Funnell
8 Martin Lawrence
9 Zach Glasspool
10 Paul Manning
11 Paul Rideout

12 Marc Burrows
14 Les Wallace
15 Ross Walliss
16 Chris Dillon
17 Andy Borthwick

Following a mix up on the ferry Brading turned up with Cowes Sports blue kit rather than their own strip which necessitated Brading borrowing Christchurch’s away red kit for the evening. What a scoop for our sponsors – both teams playing with “IN-EXCESS” on their chests!

The first half saw a rather tepid performance from Christchurch with Zach Glasspool playing the lone striker role. The chances were far and few between but Paul Rideout did manage to hit the post when put through by Gary Funnell. Brading looked the more likely to score but a glaring miss towards the end of the half meant that the teams went for their break with both goalkeepers unbeaten.

Half time: Christchurch 0 Brading Town 0

The second half saw a much better display from Christchurch with some fine passing leading to many attacking moves. As the pressure built on Brading’s goal Gary Funnell was crossing some lovely centres into the danger area and Zach Glasspool, Paul Rideout and Martin Lawrence all came close to opening the scoring. Brading refused to buckle under the pressure and several good breakaway moves led to Rory Anderson in the Christchurch goal making several fine saves to keep his side level. As the clock ticked towards full time it became more and more likely that one goal would probably win the game. However we had to wait until 2 minutes from the end of normal time before we got a goal, and what a beauty it was. Several Christchurch corners were scrambled clear by the now overworked Brading Town defence when one such clearance reached Martin Lawrence some twenty yards from goal. Lawrence swung his right boot to joyfully despatch the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the net for a glorious winner. Hard luck on Brading who themselves had chances to win the game but perhaps Christchurch deserved the result for their second half performance.

Final score: Christchurch 1 Brading Town 0

Man of the Match: RORY ANDERSON

The Bridgeman

Saturday 9th February 2008

Sydenhams Wessex League
Premier Division

CHRISTCHURCH v HORNDEAN

With Adam Costello still suffering from his rib injury, goalkeeper Dan Loader out for the season with his broken leg, under 18 player Chris Dillon rested and Dan Crutchley suspended, manager Graham Kemp selected the following line up:

1 Rory Anderson
2 Martin Lawrence
3 Dan Taylor
4 Steve Linpow
5 Tom Hughes
6 Lloyd Jenvey (capt)
7 Andy Borthwick
8 Les Wallace
9 Russell Cooke
10 Marc Burrows
11 Paul Rideout

12 Zach Glasspool
14 Robbie Woolner
15 Paul Manning
16 Chris Dillon
17 Adam Costello


Debuts then for goalkeeper Rory Anderson who is Andover’s number 2 keeper and Les Wallace who has joined Christchurch from Alresford. Both players played well and promise much for the future.

On a superb sunny spring day Christchurch kicked off with hopes of catching Horndean who were one place above them in the Wessex league table. However a disastrous first half saw Christchurch deservedly go three goals behind after being outplayed by a buoyant Horndean outfit. With 16 minutes gone Horndean had their first real shot on goal as Adam Rudling scored via the post from 20 yards out. With Christchurch players standing off their opponents and watching things happen instead of making them happen it was no surprise when Horndean doubled their lead. Rory Williams attacked down the left flank and took advantage of Christchurch not having a recognised right back when he fired home after 27 minutes. Still Christchurch did not wake up and Martin Lawrence was caught in possession as Williams crossed for the Wessex leagues top goalscorer Graham Lindsey to clinically finish and give Horndean a three goal lead. At last this stirred Christchurch into action. Following a free kick Horndean cleared the ball to the edge of the penalty area and Andy Borthwick drove the ball hard and low towards goal but a deflection took the ball wide. Paul Rideout took one of a succession of corners for Christchurch and from the corner flag the ball evaded everyone and settled in the top of the net. Three - one and game on! Christchurch now piled on the pressure as Horndean seemed to wilt and a desperate clearance had Christchurch claiming that the ball was over the goal line and a goal should be given. The referee declared play on and Horndean breathed again. Just before half time another close call saw Tom Hughes power his header goalwards and the Horndean full back clear off the line.

Half time: Christchurch 1 Horndean 3

The second half saw play gradually become scrappier but Christchurch made a real fight of it. 16 minutes into the half and Martin Lawrence crossed from the right. The ball evaded everybody until Horndean’s Ollie Warren handled to stop the ball going in the net. A penalty awarded and everyone waited for the referee to brandish his red card. Amazingly Mr Cassidy produced his yellow card allowing Horndean to continue the rest of the match with 11 players. Paul Rideout coolly put the spot kick away and Christchurch were right back in the game. Try as they might Christchurch could not get the equaliser and with the 90 minutes up and all the Christchurch players attacking Horndean broke away and scored their fourth through substitute Pete Lines. Still the game was not over and Martin Lawrence scored a rare header from Paul Rideout’s free kick in the 7th minute of injury time. Horndean were begging the referee to blow for time and in the end Christchurch paid the price for giving them a 3 goal lead.

Final score: Christchurch 3 Horndean 4

Christchurch Man of the Match: PAUL RIDEOUT

The Bridgeman

Saturday 2nd February 2008

CHRISTCHURCH v ALRESFORD TOWN

Sydenhams Wessex League
Premier Division


With Steve Linpow only fit enough for the bench and Adam Costello injured manager Graham Kemp selected the following line up:

1 Dan Loader
2 Martin Lawrence
3 Chris Dillon
4 Dan Crutchley
5 Tom Hughes
6 Lloyd Jenvey (capt)
7 Andy Borthwick
8 Paul Rideout
9 Russell Cooke
10 Marc Burrows
11 Zach Glasspool

12 Dan Taylor
14 Robbie Woolner
15 Steve Linpow



With the bitterly cold wind blowing across the Hurn Bridge pitch Christchurch were using the long ball to some effect. Chances came and went for Marc Burrows, Russell Cooke, Paul Rideout and Zach Glasspool. Martin Lawrence, playing in the unaccustomed right back position was using the ball to set up some good moves which were all thwarted by the Alresford keeper. When the visitors did attack they found Dan Loader in the Christchurch goal in commanding form.
All in all not a very inspiring half for either side.

Half time: Christchurch 0 Alresford Town 0

The second half was barely 10 minutes old when Dan Loader saved at an Alresford forwards feet. Sadly the young keeper suffered a broken leg in the incident and play was suspended for about half an hour whilst he received treatment and waited to be taken to hospital by ambulance. Zach Glasspool donned the goalies jumper and was quite adept in his new position. With just 15 minutes to go Lloyd Jenvey played the ball into Russell Cookes feet and the 18 year old turned his marker brilliantly and smashed a right footed drive into the back of the net to win the game for Christchurch.

Final score: Christchurch 1 Arlesford Town 0

Man of the Match: CHRIS DILLON

The Bridgeman

Christchurch made the short journey to Wimborne Town on Saturday to a match that few people would have given them a chance of winning against the challengers for the Wessex league title.

Once again injuries and illness meant that manager Graham Kemp had to make several changes to his starting line up. Adam Costello was suffering from ”man-flu” and Robbie Woolner pulled up with an injury in the warm up.

1 Dan Loader
2 Colin Dand
3 Tom Hughes
4 Steve Linpow
5 Dan Crutchley
6 Lloyd Jenvey (capt)
7 Martin Lawrence
8 Zach Glasspool
9 Russell Cooke
10 Marc Burrows
11 Paul Rideout

12 Dan Taylor
14 Paul Manning
15 Mark Coleman
16 Robbie Woolner
17 Adam Costello


Playing with the strong breeze behind them Christchurch, not for the first time this season made a poor start. With just 4 minutes gone the unmarked James Stokoe headed a Wimborne corner into the Christchurch net. Things got worse just 4 minutes later when Steve Linpow brought down man of the match Kevin James for an obvious penalty. Up stepped Stokoe but Dan Loader the Christchurch keeper made a great save low to his right to keep his team in the game. Christchurch put a few chances together with Paul Rideout and Zach Glasspool both going close but it was Loader who was the busier of the two keepers as he pulled off several excellent saves.

Half time: Wimborne Town 1 Christchurch 0

Twelve minutes into the second half and Steve Linpow received his second yellow card, which led to his dismissal. For a while the game appeared to be a Wimborne training session as the Magpies passed the ball around and it was no surprise when Stuart Langrish scored their second with 25 minutes still to go. The Wimborne Town side celebrated as if they had won the World Cup such was their relief to break down Christchurch’s stubborn resistance. The spectators could be forgiven if they had thought it was match over at this point but nobody told the gallant 10 men in blue. From this point on Christchurch started to attack Wimborne and a good passing move left 17 year old Russell Cooke through on goal. Cooke finished with ease to put Christchurch back in the game. It was surprising to see title contenders Wimborne Town time wasting and kicking the ball anywhere as they became more and more desperate to hold on to their lead.

Final score: Wimborne Town 2 Christchurch 1

Match report by: The Bridgeman

Hamworthy United 1    Christchurch FC 2


Images from this match are in the image gallery.

Sydenhams Wessex League
Premier Division

Christchurch 1    Moneyfields 2

Images from this match are in the image gallery.

Sydenhams Wessex League
Premier Division


Romsey Town 1    Christchurch FC 1

Images from this match are in the image gallery.

Sydenhams Wessex League
Premier Division

Hayling United 1    Christchurch FC 2

Christchurch made their first ever journey to Hayling United in the Wessex League and returned with all three points.

Christchurch line up:

1 Dan Loader
2 Colin Dand
3 Tom Hughes
4 Adam Costello
5 Dan Crutchley
6 Lloyd Jenvey (capt)
7 Ross Drew
8 Paul Rideout
9 Robbie Woolner
10 Marc Burrows
11 Paul Manning

12 Kevin Collins
14 Martin Lawrence
15 Dave Midgley
16 Charlie Pierson
17 Mark Coleman


Christchurch kicked off with the strong breeze behind them and it wasn’t long before they were putting some neat attacking moves together. Colin Dand fed Marc Burrows and his low cross was deflected just wide of the goal. Following the corner Paul Rideout beat two men and crossed only for a defender to blatantly handle. A penalty was awarded which Marc Burrows took. His right footed shot was well parried by the keeper low down to his right but the inrushing Paul Rideout followed up to find the back of the net. Although Christchurch were a goal up it was not all one way. Hayling attacked down their left, crossed to the far post where a header was goal bound until Dan Loader got down to his left to make the first of several fine saves he was to make during the afternoon. Shortly after this Hayling broke through but the forward pulled his shot across goal and didn’t trouble Loader on this occasion. Paul Manning limped off with an ankle problem and was replaced by Dave Midgley and following Loader’s giant kick, which was hastily cleared for a corner; it was Midgley himself who took the 27th minute corner. And what a beauty it was. It deceived the keeper and landed in the centre of the goal mouth where a Hayling defender could do nothing but turn it into his own net. Two nil and the confidence in the Christchurch team was sky high. Lloyd Jenvey slipped the ball into Robbie Woolner’s feet. Woolner neatly turned his marker and got away a left footed shot, which had the keeper diving desperately across goal but the ball when just wide of the far post. Then Tom Hughes played a one – two with Paul Rideout, crossed to Woolner whose shot beat the keeper but was cleared off the line by a defender. With 5 minutes left in the first half Hayling fought back. Dan Crutchley made a last gasp tackle to toe end the ball to safety and then a cross from Hayling’s left was headed strongly against the crossbar. Somewhat fortunately Christchurch went in at half time with their goal unbreached.

Half time: Hayling United 0 Christchurch 2

The second half saw Hayling play with three players up front and they put the Christchurch defence under almost constant pressure. Just 13 minutes into the half and Hayling had halved the deficit. A free kick was routinely played into the danger area but with the Christchurch defence apparently asleep a Hayling attacker stooped to head the ball past a helpless Dan Loader. It was time for Christchurch to dig deep and fight for the points, and this they did. With players visibly tiring Christchurch’s attacks were getting less and less but the excellent Loader and his teammates held out doggedly to record another away victory.

Full Time: Hayling United 1 Christchurch 2

The Bridgeman


Images from this match are in the image gallery.

Sydenhams Wessex League
Premier Division

Christchurch FC 1    Alton Town 2

Images from this match are in the image gallery.

Sydenhams Wessex League
Premier Division


Christchurch FC 4    Downton 0


Images from this match are in the image gallery.