Ringwood Rangers v Christchurch

Match Result: 2 - 11

Goal Scorers: Oliver D (3), Olly B (3), Josh (2), Nathaniel (2), Harry

This was our final game of the season and we needed a point to win the
league. Luke (Ringwood manager and a good friend to our team from
Basics) arranged for the match to be played at the men's football club.

We were nervous but settled well on a big pitch and after 6 minutes Olly
B was put through and slotted away to put us in the lead. Despite
a couple more chances that lead only lasts 4 minutes though before a
Ringwood corner was never cleared properly and a scramble led to an
equaliser. 2 minutes later Harry scored though to put us back in front
and Oliver D scored two to put us 4 - 1 up and only 15 minutes
played. We were playing some really nice football but Ringwood were a
constant threat so we never seemed comfortable even after Olly Balmer
made it 5 at half time.

We kept things as they were for the start of the second half but
Ringwood scored their second from a long range lob which Dec could do
nothing about. We replied almost immediately through Josh and then he
scored a penalty to make it 7. We could relax a bit then and we played
some fantastic football. Bubba scored twice and then Oliver D and
Olly B finished it off.

Well done to all 17 players who have been involved this year Declan
Johnson, Philip Pollard, Connor Lopez, Jeremy James, Nathanial Tamlyn,
Ethan Maddocks, Oliver Davis, Olivia Watts, Harry Chapman, Oliver
Balmer, Josh Moody, Brandon Kotkowski, Tom Cole, Ollie Griggs, Scott
Norton, Max George and Jordi Gentle. They have all been a credit to themselves and
their families and been a pleasure to work with.

Christchurch v Cannon Colts

Match Result: 3 - 3

Goal Scorers: Oliver D (2), Olly B

This was our penultimate game and we knew two points from our last game would secure the league. Canon are a good team and have recently done the double on Kingswood so we guessed our recent 4 2 win over them was catching them on an off day.

We started really well and in almost a carbon copy of the Kingswood game on Thursday we scored in the first two minutes of both halves. Olly Balmer scored our first but Canon had the better of the next ten minutes. A corner bounced up awkwardly and hit Harry on the arm and they scored the resultant penalty. Olly Balmer then hit the bar but ten minutes later Oliver Davis scored our second so we were two one up at half time.

2 minutes into the second half they handled in the box and Oliver Davis scored the penalty.

To their credit Canon didn't give up and deservedly pulled level. We tried our best and hit the bar again from a free kick from Oliver and the hit the post! It wasn't going to be our day today. So on we go to Ringwood on Tuesday night.

Kingswood v Christchurch

Match Result: 1 - 3

Goal Scorers: Harry, Zeddy, Josh

We went into this game knowing that we needed 5 points from the last 3
games to clinch the league but also in the knowledge that having drawn
on Sunday and then lost on Tuesday and this being their final game of
the season Kingswood would be out to prove a point. Kingswood could no
longer win the league and defeat tonight would mean 4th spot.

Both teams had to reorganise. We had no Ethan and Livs, Brandon, Olly
Balmer and Jordi had just got back from a school rugby tournament, Josh
(making an outstanding debut) had been doing cross country with the
school and Bubba was still carrying an injury. From the Kingswood point
of view Josh was ill and Owen was injured.

We took the game to them and Josh slotted away well in the third minute.
We totally dominated the rest of the half but just couldn't find more
goals; Ben and Sam in Kingswood's defence were excellent. Some of the
football both teams were playing was a joy to watch - and on the same
hard, bouncy pitch on which we had played Canon Colts last week.

Second half started much the same. Harry scored after 2 minutes and we
created more chances. Olly Balmer added a third and we looked fairly
comfortable. Every single player was outstanding but Tom (captain in
Ethan's absence) was inspired.

5 minutes from the end Zeddy hit a shot which bounced and looped over
Dec's head and for a while Kingswood piled on the pressure but we were
resolute.

Well done to all our team - and well done to Kingswood. It was a good
game and many of their players genuinely wished us luck in winning the
league.

Christchurch v Broadstone

Match Result: 4 - 0

Goal Scorers: Harry C (2), Olly B (2)

We'd picked up a couple of injuries (Bubba and Oliver D) and Brandon was away so even with Connor making his debut we only had ten players. Broadstone have only earned 4 points this season and so with all due respect we expected the win.

We started well enough and within 5 minutes Olly Balmer tucked the first one away after a good run from Harry. It was a hard pitch on Iford Lane and we struggled to get the ball down and pass it around - whenever we did we scored; twice from Harry and another by Olly.

That was 4 nil at half time and we expected to get better. But the second have was more of the same but our finishing deserted us. Despite numerous chances we failed to score and so had to settle for the 4 which was frustrating knowing this game gave us the opportunity to overtake Kingswood's 5 goal goal difference advantage over us.

Still any disappointment was quickly erased as we heard Kingswood had drawn against Branksome and Poole Town had drawn against Ringwood. Kingswood meet Poole Town on Tuesday and if that game results in a draw (and my maths are right) we can afford to lose to Kingswood on Thursday and still win the league.

Special mention to Ethan. This was his last game of the season as he goes on holiday now. Well done for another fantastic season Ethan!!

Cannon Colts v Christchurch

Match Result: 2 - 4

Goal Scorers: Olly B (2), Harry, Oliver D

After the game against Kingswood on Tuesday here was another big test against the team who have a recent league double over Kingswood. We started well on a rock hard pitch and Olly Balmer ran through in the 4th minute and slotted away comfortably. Rather than build on this though we went backwards. Bubba and Brandon were both carrying injuries sustained at a schools sports event this afternoon; and with the exception of Ethan we looked a pale shadow of the team that played two days ago. Canon seemed camped in our half but created no real goal scoring chances.

We hoped a good talking to at half time might sort things out but they stayed the same. We invited the pressure and with better finishing Canon could have scored two or three before they eventually equalised after 18 minutes of the half. That seemed to provide us with some impetus at last and we replied two minutes later through Olly Balmer. Harry and Oliver Davis added a goal each but to their credit Canon kept at it and added a second themselves.

Not a great spectacle but after the games we've had Sunday and Tuesday we'll happily take the win; and lets not forget Canon are a good team and will finish in the top 5.

Christchurch v Kingswood

Match Result: 4 - 4

Goal Scorers: Harry (3), Olly B

We really must stop doubting our players!! After the defeat in the Hants Cup Final on Sunday and also the manner of that defeat and our loss to Kingswood in the BYFL Final a few weeks ago this was going to be a real stiff challenge. We have no Max the rest of the season, Livs had a girls match, but we had Scott back. We put Scott on Josh and let everyone else play their own game.

And we totally took the game to Kingswood. We did everything we didn't do on Sunday. We battled for every ball, we ran like our lives depended on it. Players linked up better, we created chances and overall I think we deserved the win.

Harry scored after about ten minutes and that was followed by a penalty appeal which their linesman seemed to give. Scott had kept Josh quiet all game and Tom, Brandon and Jeremy had mopped up everything else. But seconds before half time Josh got his only chance of the half and it was one all.

Early in the second they had a huge penalty shout - I think we all thought Bubba handled but not given. Then déjà vu; Harry put us two one up; Josh equalised. Olly Balmer was pulled down in the penalty area and got up to take the coolest penalty in the world; 3 - 2 to us. Josh equalised.

Nearing full time now and Harry hit a ball from fully 30 yards; their 'keeper completely mis judged the bounce and it went over his head and in. 4 - 3 to us and their 'keeper was distraught.

Last couple of minutes of normal time and George picked up the ball in midfield and ran. Ethan struggled to keep up and conceded a free kick right on the edge of the box. We all know what happens next but you can do nothing about it. Up steps Josh - not even Tom on the line jumping as high as he could prevented the equaliser.

These are two outstanding teams full of hugely talented players who give their all. I could not have been more proud of our players. It's a bit sickening to concede right at the end of the game but the character every single one of them showed today was very humbling.

Poole Town beat Greenfields and we have Cannon Colts on Thursday. If we can beat them the league title can still be ours and nothing less than we deserve after the season we have had.

Salisbury City v Christchurch

Hampshire Cup Final

Match Result: 4 - 0

Such a shame!! This was a fantastic day - the weather was brilliant, we all enjoyed the coach trip; the facilities and organisation at Basingstoke were first class and everything looked set for a great game. We confirmed on the day that Ollie G could not play so we had a squad of 12. We started with Max - his first game since the injury he sustained against Ringwood on 14th March - and unfortunately he pulled up after his first tackle early on. From that point we were on the back foot. Salisbury played with a strong back four who knocked long balls up to two quick strikers. I can't really say a lot else. We didn't compete as we know we can, we pulled out of tackles and really let Salisbury boss the whole game. I can't remember us ever having not scored in a game and to be honest we only created a couple of chances which is so unlike us.

Salisbury were deserved winners but for the second cup final we come away feeling we have not performed.

Still back in the coach it was soon forgotten and it was great to see so many in the Avon Causeway for a couple of hours late afternoon.

Chairman's view: The players did the Club proud, I know everybody is disappointed with the result, but the team should be extremely proud at what they have achieved
this season, it was a privilege to watch the match and the spirit of the team shone through despite having to overcome many difficulties, this will make the team stronger for next season and another crack at the age group final. There is still the league to play for and the chance to crown a superb season with some silverware is up for grabs.

Christchurch v Highcliffe Hawks

Match Result: 8 - 2

Goal Scorers: Olly B (4), Harry C (2), Oliver D, Olivia

This was the reverse of the fixture on 18th October when we beat them 7 - 2 after having gone a goal behind. Today was a very similar game. We conceded first but then were leading by half time (3 - 1) today; the game was marked with strong tackles; us relying on Declan to come out of his box on numerous occasions to clear the ball; and ultimately a score line that flatters us.

Highcliffe have two very fast strikers and play the ball through defences and they run on. We started the game pushing too far forward and conceded in this way early. Harry equalised with a fantastic free kick and before half time Olly Balmer scored two. The kick off was barely two minutes old by the time Highcliffe scored again and we added a 4th and then Oliver added a 5th. Livs scored our 6th midway through the half but credit to Highcliffe who never gave up. They had a goal rued out for offside before Harry and Olly Balmer scored again.

This was a big win; we are still without Max; Highcliffe had beaten Canon (victors themselves over Kingswood twice recently) 5 nil a week ago; and important to go into the Hants Cup Final after a win.

Corfe Mullen v Christchurch

Match Result: 0 - 4

Goal Scorers: Harry C, Brandon, Oliver D (2)

It says a lot about the season we have had that this was only our 14th league game leaving us 10 more to play, whereas it was Corfe Mullen's 23rd and penultimate fixture. This was a very important game for us. We have not played well for a few weeks and were coming off the back of two defeats. We were still without Max (injured) and without Olly B up front (holiday.) The win was all important but at the same time we (coaches etc) were determined we should put in a good performance and overall I think we did. Again there was a strong wind and the pitch was pot-holed so passing would be difficult. We were solid the whole game and never at any stage looked like conceding. We created numerous chances and with better finishing the scoreline would (and should) have been greater. I think we passed as well as we could have in the conditions and hopefully this sets us up nicely for our game against Bransgore on Tuesday. Special mention to Brandon who playing in an unfamiliar right midfield position scored his first goal for the team and also to Oliver D who when on a hat trick squared the ball for Harry to score rather than try for goal himself.

Greenfields v Christchurch

Match Result: 4 - 3

Goal Scorers: Olly B (2), Oliver D

This was always going to be a tricky game coming off the back of the defeat in the Bournemouth Cup Final and also given Greenfields had inflicted our only other defeat this season - it was also our first evening game since the clocks changed. I arrived 5 minutes late just in time to see us concede a second goal. We were playing against a very strong wind and it was all we could do to get the ball out of our penalty area let alone into Greenfields' half. We conceded a third before half time but I was confident that with that wind in our favour we would still get back. Instead we conceded a 4th very early in the second. We moved players around a bit and for about 15 minutes we played like we can; passing and moving and in that period scored three goals and looked the most likely winner. Ten minutes from the end a 'tackle' on Bubba - well the player stamped on his knee meant he had to come off with blood pouring from the stud mark - unfortunately the ref missed the whole thing and the injustice seemed the throw our play and despite several chances we never got the deserved 4th. No sour grapes though - on the basis of our poor first half display a draw may have been more than we should have expected.

Bransgore v Christchurch

Match Result: 0 - 9

Goal scorers: Harry C (3), Oliver D (2), Nathaniel (2), Ethan, Jordi

Wow what a performance; we were back to our best. We started with a familiar back four (well as it could be with Max still out) so Brandon was back to right back, Jeremy right midfield and Oliver D and Jordi up front. The first 5 minutes were uneventful but we then scored three in the next five. Harry started the scoring, Oliver D added the second after a great free kick from Tom and Bubba headed a third. Harry scored a fantastic free kick on 15 minutes and in the next ten minutes Oliver D, Ethan after a marauding run from Jeremy, and Bubba made it seven at half time. We were unstoppable but make no mistake; Bransgoore are no mugs and Brandon and Tom had to be back to their best to keep their left-sided attacker and midfield player at bay.

Being overly critical we were caught offside numerous times in the second half and were it not for that we could have had double-figures early on. But being fair Bransgore never gave up and created several chances and but for a bit of better luck and better finishing could have scored three or four themselves. The two goals in the second half were a great finish from Jordi and Harry heading in for his hat trick.

Still well done everyone. A performance we all needed. And far more importantly it was really pleasing to see so many of our team with smiles on their face as they played.

Kingswood v Christchurch

BYFL Cup Final

Match Result: 4 - 2

Goal Scorers: Ollie G, Oliver D

This was one of those that I think the occasion got to the players. We
still had no Max and this would be Ollie G's final game as he has now
been signed by Bournemouth. We started so well; we kicked off, passed
the ball and kept possession and looked very good. Inside the first 5
minutes a goal bound shot from Olly B crashed against the bar - if
only that had gone in it might have all been so different. Despite how
well we played Josh was a constant threat for them. His pace is
frightening and he has an awesome shot. He too had an effort that
clipped the bar and a shot that looked a certain goal but somehow Dec
dived to his right and pushed it over one-handed.

Midway through the first half Kingswood were awarded a free kick which
Josh hit; Tom tried to head it out but unfortunately it glanced off his
head into the goal. And that was that for the first half. It seemed to
knock the stuffing out of us and to be honest we were grateful not to be
further behind at half time.

We are quite used to playing poorly first half and then far better
second but today it just didn't happen. Passing moves broke down; we
struggled to get the ball out wide to Harry and Oliver and the front two
just seemed to get isolated. Again midway through the half they added a
second. To our credit we always show impressive resilience and 5
minutes later Oliver got his first real run, he nutmegged the full back
and hit a cracking shot from the edge of the box; 2 - 1 and we thought
this was it. But two minutes later they scored a third.

With 6 minutes left Ollie G showed real determination in the box and
scored our second. 5 minutes left and we were finally on top again.
Josh missed (for him) a sitter and we thought the luck was finally
turning. Olly B was put through to make it 3 all but he slipped as
he went to hit it. A minute later we were awarded a free kick - up
steps Harry - he always scores these - but he too slipped as he went to
hit it - what had we said about luck changing.

Last minute and they were awarded a free kick and Josh did his business.

We should be encouraged - we played poorly and Kingswood's parents said
it was their best game all season. Josh was the difference; three out
of four of their goals were long range free kicks from him. It almost
makes you wonder why Bournemouth haven't already signed him - but no
sour grapes here. Well done Kingswood - on the day they were by far the
better team - but we will have our day again.

Well done to Ollie G - a short but very distinguished career at
Christchurch. Thanks too to Mannie and Lisa for everything (especially
the cakes) - we will miss all three of you.

And congratulations to Oliver D. Bournemouth would like to take him
on a six week trial and he thoroughly deserves that chance.

Michael

Christchurch v Branksome

Match Result: 6 - 1

Goal Scorers: Bubba (4), Olly B, Ethan

The reversal of the game two weeks ago and very nearly an identical score line; we won the first 7 1. It was a fairly uneventful first quarter of an hour or so, we dominated possession and territory but didn't really create many chances, Branksome only ventured into our final third a couple of times. After about 20 minutes a ball broke to the edge of the box and Ethan did really well to drive a hard, low shot into the corner of the goal; one nil. 5 minutes later Bubba was first to react to a scramble and added a second. An unfortunate miss kick from Dec led to them getting one back before half time.

In the second half we started much more direct and should have scored three early on; in one attack we hit both posts! Finally we broke through and Bubba added two more; completing his hat trick. We seemed to go from strength to strength and Olly B and Bubba brought the score line up to six.

Well done to everyone; Branksome are a strong, competitive team and hard to play against. In addition we were without Max who sustained the injury last week and this meant Brandon playing the whole game as centre half alongside Tom.

Bournemouth Cup Final next week against Kingswood.

Christchurch v Ringwood Rangers

Match Result: 5 - 0

Goal Scorers: Oliver D, Olly B (3), Harry

This was an unusual game for us because we normally start poorly and
then improve in the second half but we were the other way round today.
We had no Bubba (injured still) nor Ollie G (Bournemouth) and so started
with Scott (making his debut) in midfield next to Ethan. We dominated
play right from the beginning and inside the first five minutes a cross
from Oliver D was headed in by Olly B. Olly had completed his
hat trick inside 15 minutes.

Ringwood had a very tall, fast number 9 who was a constant threat and a
tussle with Max led to Max pulling up and having to miss the last ten
minutes of the first half and the whole second half. We scored two more
before half time, Harry and then a cracking free kick from Oliver D.

Ringwood reorganised in the second half and put their striker in
midfield which made them more solid. We too reorganised because of
Max's injury; Brandon had an excellent half as centre back next to Tom.

We seemed to lose our way second half. Very little passing; lots of
long balls and panicky first touches when people easily had more time
than they realised (and not being told by their team mates.)

So overall a bit disappointed but on looking on the website this was
actually Ringwood's heaviest defeat of the season so we should have been
more pleased; also Kingswood lost 3 nil at home to Cannon Colts so the
league is wide open again.

Branksome v Christchurch

Match Result: 1 - 7

Goal Scorers: Olly B (3), Oliver D (2), Harry C (2)

Branksome always give us a tough game and had done the double on us last season. This season we are playing them today and then have the reverse fixture in two weeks. To add a bit of spice to the game they had taken a few players from Heathlands in the summer and originally Ollie G and Oliver D had signed for them before changing their minds and transferring to us.

Anyway we started well but always struggled with their pace. We were caught out two or three times by a ball over the top which beat our back four and Dec had to come out for and also their right midfield player was very quick. On about the fourth time he'd come out Dec apparently made contact with Callum and the ref gave a penalty. Lee took it but Dec saved.

Almost immediately we won a free kick and Harry scored straight from it. We were never comfortable though and Branksome seemed more up for it than us. Just before half time a fantastic run to the touch line from Oliver D and ball in led to Olly B scoring our second.

The second half started much the same. Dave flagged offside against two of their strikers and one scored. Eventually the ref saw Dave's flag and so ruled it out. When we started moving the ball better with one-twos or simple passing we looked much better and started taking our chances. The goals kept ticking over up to 4 before they scored from a free kick with about ten minutes left. This could have led to an edgy period but we carried on as we had been playing and added three more goals including Olly Balmer completing his hat trick.

Christchurch v Corfe Mullen

Match Result: 7 - 0

Goal Scorers: Oliver D (2), Nathaniel, Jordi, Harry C, Ethan, OG

This was our 9th league game and Corfe Mullen's (who were lying 3rd in the league) 17th which goes some way to demonstrate how our cup runs have affected our season. This was also our first game with a squad of 13 since Philip left.

Unusually for us we started off really well; passed and moved well and were deservedly 5 nil up in the first 20 minutes. I think a combination of squad rotation and also a very heavy pitch inevitably impacted on our performance and we didn't score again until the last when we added 2.

Overall we were very pleased; Corfe Mullen are not a bad team and its good to keep a clean sheet.

Christchurch v Poole Town

BYFL Cup Semi-final

Match Result: 6 - 2

Goal Scorers: Ethan, Harry, Olly B (2), Ollie G (2)

Poole Town must be sick to death of the sight of us. We beat them in
the Dorset Cup Final at the end of last season and then did the league
double over them earlier this season. After the euphoria of last week
this game started off quite flat. Ollie G was back after his broken arm
and was playing up front and Brandon was back from two weeks holiday.
Poole Town seized the initiative early and we looked hesitant at the
back. At one point Jean Nicol missed a chance to put them in the lead
but it was a good move down our left which led to Olly Balmer putting in
a good cross which Ollie G finished well. So one nil to us at half time
and in all honesty pretty much against the run of play.

We tried to fire up our team at half time; Poole Town had lost the
Dorset Cup semi final a couple of weeks ago on penalties against
Kingswood and we knew they wouldn't want to lose two semis in three
weeks. Instead though it was Adam who equalised for Poole Town in the
first couple of minutes. Our team have an admiral never-say-die
attitude and Olly Balmer scored a superb second but once again Poole
Town got an equaliser.

This seemed to be the kick up the backside we needed and we scored 4
goals in the last 15 minutes including a penalty from Olly Balmer.

6 - 2 probably flattered us but well done to the team! Two cup finals
and this one will be against Kingswood at the end of March. That gives
us 4 or 5 weeks straight of league games where we have played only 8
games; the fewest in the league.

Christchurch v Aldershot

Hampshire Cup Semi-final

Match Result: 5 - 2

Goal Scorers: Oliver B (4), Harry C

Wow where do you start with a match report for this game. 5 - 2 doesn't
quite make it a Valentine's Day massacre but in terms of what we
achieved it just as well had been. Aldershot are the holders and as a
club are becoming a Centre of Excellence next season. We had requested
a postponement given we were missing Dec, Ollie G and Brandon. Despite
all the efforts of Mark, Mary and some at BYFL we had to play and
managed to register Jordi in time to bring us up to ten.

I think the origin of 'cometh the hour cometh the man' is unknown but it
should be rewritten as 'cometh the hour cometh 9 boys and a girl'.
Every single one of them performed at their absolute best. It would be
unfair to single any one child out as they all played so well. Playing
on his own up front Olly Balmer ran and harried defenders and most
importantly for us he held onto the ball when we got it up to him.
Ethan and Bubba ran and tackled everything in midfield, on the wings
Oliver Davis and Harry were creative going forward and gave such
protection to our full backs that particularly in the second half we
were put under little pressure. Tom and Max just look as solid as any
centre-half pairing you can think of. Livs and Jordi at full backs
worked as hard as they could and fed Harry and Oliver. And Jeremy in
goal was solid and commanding and came out to clear when he needed to.

So, the game; We started well (not like us) and Olly Balmer put us ahead
within 5 minutes but they equalised almost immediately. We kept at it
though and Olly scored a second but again they equalised; this time with
a long rang shot that no 'keeper could do anything about. The character
our players show is awesome and Harry put us 3 - 2 up about 4 minutes
before the break.

In the second half we were prepared for an onslaught but instead Olly
Balmer completed his hat-trick following a quick throw. At this point
some of their parents created quite an intimidating atmosphere by
complaining loudly but yet again our character shone through and Olly
added a 5th.

I truly hope all the players are proud of themselves because as parents
we could not be more proud of them no matter what happens against
Salisbury in the final.

A special thanks too for others from the club who have given us such
support: Mary, Mark, Craig and Tris.

Michael

A superb result for the ten players of Christchurch who outplayed their opponents to rightfully earn their place in the Final of this age group Hampshire Cup. The Club are extremely proud of the result achieved by this team, whom despite playing the whole match being one player down due to holidays, showed true fight and team spirit to defeat their fancied opponents. Every player, parent and supporter should applaud the determination of this team to win against all the odds, those involved with the Club will know what is meant.

Mark Duffy (Chairman CYFC)

Broadstone v Christchurch

Match Result: 0 - 6

Goal Scorers: Olly B, Nathaniel (2), Oliver D, Jordi, Harry C.

This was our first league game since the first week of December and only
our 8th so far this season. A tiny pitch and Broadstone's tactic of
crowding three or four boys round the ball made for a very frustrating
first half in which we created very few goal scoring chances whilst at
the same time never looking like conceding ourselves. We turned round
only one nil up but our quality came through in the second half and we
added a further 5 including a debut goal for Jordi; two from Bubba
playing centre midfield, the second a sublime move with Olly Balmer; and
good to see Harry on the score sheet.

Hampshire Cup Semi Final next week!!

Christchurch v Sandhurst

Hampshire Cup quarter final

Match Result: 5 - 0

Goal Scorers: Olivia, Oliver B (2), Nathaniel, Ethan

This game had originally been scheduled for 10th January but had been
postponed three times and was our first game since beating Hythe in the
quarter final on 13th December. It was therefore not surprising we
started off looking like a team short of match practice. This was also
our first game since Ollie G broke his arm and so we reshuffled and
played Olivia up front. And were delighted that she scored our opening
goal after about ten minutes. We dominated the rest of that half but
squandered the four or five good chances we created. Second half was
equally frustrating: Sandhurst were a strong, competitive team. Finally
Olly Balmer scored our second and in the last ten minutes we added three
more. So we're through to the semi which is scheduled for the 14th but
there are still other fixtures to be played before we know who we will
be playing.

Hythe and Dibden Jets v Christchurch

Hampshire Cup

Match Result: 1 - 4

Goal Scorers: Olly B (2), Harry C (2)

Hythe are a very good team; their only defeat this season was against Pace and we had played them twice in an 11 a side tournament; losing a group game and then beating them in the semi final. In terms of chances we dominated the first half but we never looked comfortable. Late on we conceded a penalty and were relieved to see their striker (who trains at Portsmouth) put the ball over. In the last minute we won a corner and a fantastic cross was met in the air by Olly Balmer and the ball went like a rocket into the goal. The half time whistle went as Hythe restarted the game. We played much better in the second half and good finishing from Olly again and Harry put us 3 nil up with 20 minutes still to play. Hythe kept playing well though and deservedly scored with a really nice move. That made for a nervous 5 minutes as they rallied but Harry's second settled it all down and we looked comfortable from then on. So we're into the quarter final and can only assume we'll be up against even better teams from now on in. Well played to everyone!!

Christchurch v New Milton Town Robins

Match Result: 7 - 0

Goal Scorers: Olly B (3), Ollie G, Oliver D, Harry C (2)

This was our home game but was moved to Fawcett Field because Iford Lane was not playable. The pitch was in good condition but a strong wind straight down the pitch meant it was never going to be a good match. We played against the wind first half and led two nil despite missing numerous chances to make it more. We gave the players a hard time during the interval but in hindsight we probably hadn't appreciated quite how much influence with wind was having. They only got in our half a couple of times second half and Dec probably only touched the ball twice. Harry added a third for us direct from a free kick and that was probably it until the last ten minutes when we scored another 4 including Harry's second from the penalty spot. Well done to all of them but special mention to Olly Balmer for his hat trick. Home in the Hampshire cup next week.

Christchurch v Bournemouth Sports Grange

Hampshire Cup Round 3

Match Result: 7 - 1

Goal Scorers: Olly B. (4), Ollie G, Harry C. (2)

The scoreline suggests a very comfortable win but that really doesn't reflect the game at all. We started very slowly and conceded early. Continually their two strikers were able to run onto long balls and Dec was called upon about ten times throughout the game (mostly in the first half) to come racing out of his box to clear. Despite that we led three one at half time and gave the team a good pep talk. Things didnt really improve until about the last 7 or 8 minutes. When we passed the ball we scored pretty much at will. We'll put this one down to 'a win is a win' and to be honest not many managers would moan about a 7 - 1 win.

Christchurch v New Milton Town Eagles

Match Result: 6 - 0

Goal Scorers: Harry C (2), Ethan, Oliver D, Nathaniel, Olly B

I missed this one again and it sounds a regulation win rather than anything
spectacular. After a dodgy start to the season Robins' results seem to have
improved i the last couple of weeks and with them having two of our ex-players meant
they were going to be fired up for this one. Pleasing to see us keep a clean
sheet after having been critical of our defence in previous weeks but it seems
now we are scoring less than half the chances we create. This result leaves us
in second place joint on points with Kingswood who played a Dorset cup match;
we've played a game more but have a one goal worse goal difference. We need to
start scoring more of the chances we create!
Back to the Hampshire Cup next week where I think we are Christchurch's sole survivor.

Bournemouth Cup Round 2

Boscombe Albion v Christchurch

Match Result: 0 - 7

Goal Scorers: Nathaniel, Oliver D (3), Harry, Oliver G (2)

Boscombe are a second division team but we approached the game wary that it could be a potential upset: especially given they'd won the Bournemouth Electric tournament over the summer which included Poole Town and Kingswood. We were also wary of complacency but the fact we only had ten players meant that everyone had to play well. And by all accounts that's what happened: every single player played very well and did exactly what was asked of them - despite some very tasty 'tackles' that left us down to 9 for a while.

Well Done to everybody.

Highcliffe Hawks v Christchurch

Match Result: 2 - 7

Goal Scorers: Oliver G, Oliver D (2), Oliver B, Nathaniel, Harry (2)

Highcliffe won their league last season without losing a game and had started well this season in the higher league so we certainly weren't taking this for granted. We started well enough but after about ten minutes conceded with their first attack of the game. We kept at it though and got four goals before half time; the first was a sublime lob by Harry. Again we started the better in the second half but they were a constant threat. In all honesty 7 - 2 did flatter us but it slightly makes up for the fact that a 4 - 1 reverse the other week against Greenfields was a travesty.

Michael

Christchurch v Sportstars Youth

Hampshire Cup 2nd Round

Match Result: 6 - 2

Goal Scorers: Ollie B (3), Harry (2), Nathaniel.

I wasn't at the game but by all accounts it was a complete masterpiece. The sandwiches were decorated artistically, there was enough sausages, biscuits, sausage rolls and lemonade to sink a ship. The vol au vents were a triumph and by all accounts the fruit salads should have earned 5 Michelen stars. Happy Birthday to Oliver and Olivia and well done for the cake Lisa.

Oh, and we won 6 - 2.

Michael

Match result: 1 - 4

A very disappointing game. Our first defeat of the season and we really did deserve to lose against the better team on the day. We were missing Philip and Harry so were down to a bare 11 but started brightly and missed two very good opportunities early and then could have done much better from a free kick just outside their box. They scored with their first real attack but we equalised about 5 minutes later but then conceded a second just before the break. We all fully expected a rally after half time but it didn't happen instead it was another case of missed chances up front and conceding soft goals at the back. We will bounce back from this but it was very disappointing.

Goal Scorer: Oliver D.

Match Result: Christchurch 3 v Poole Town 1

Goal Scorers: Philip (2), Ollie B.

On a week when most teams were playing Bournemouth Cup games (we had a bye in the first round) we played a reverse fixture of our second game of the season - when we had won 5 nil away. Poole had come off the back of defeats against us and Kingswood and were clearly out to exert some authority having won the league last season. On a very hot, sunny day we dominated territory in the first half but only had a single goal to show for all our efforts.
Poole changed things around at half time and came out all guns blazing; scored early on and probably deserved more. We looked very second best until the last 5 minutes when goals from Olly B. and a second from Philip gave us a very flattering score line.

Match Result: Bournemouth Electric 2 v Christchurch 12

Goal Scorers: Philip (4), Oliver B (2), Ethan, Oliver G, Oliver D, Nathaniel, Harry.

Despite the scoreline this was quite a frustrating game. We started slowly and but for a brilliant save from Dec and a miss we could have been two down in the first three minutes. However we rallied well and scored periodically thoroughout the game. The frustration came from 3 or 4 very contentious offside decisions. Bubba scored by putting a ball through the legs of a player on the line but was given offside!! We conceded two goals when we were 9 nil up but then added three ourselves.

Well done to all for keeping their focus and playing our own game.

Hampshire Cup 1st round

Match Result: Baddesley 0 v Christchurch 11

Goal Scorers: Oliver G (4), Harry (3), Oliver B, Olivia, Thomas and Philip

Another impressive win which takes the team into the next round of the Cup. Ollie G (glad to see him back after the head injury on Tuesday) scored in the first minute and we thought that would open the floodgates but the size of the pitch seemed to throw us. It was small and especially narrow which made our midfield feel on top of each other and be in each other's way, we did very well though. Ollie G scored the first three before one each from Philip, Olly B and then Harry before half time.

Half Time: Baddesley 0 v Christchurch 6

We gave player's chances in different positions in the second half and were probably guilty of shooting too much from distance, having said that it was good to see many different player's on the score sheet. Further goals from Harry, a hat trick, Olivia and Tom got their first of the season and Ollie G his fourth wrapped up the game. Well done to everybody, they all played really well, including the defence who were rarely troubled throughout the game.

Full Time: Baddesley 0 v Christchurch 11

Michael

Matxh Result: Poole Town 0 v Christchurch 5

Goal Scorers: Oliver B (2), Philip (2), Oliver D.

What a result, Poole Town won the league last year and we had also met in the Dorset Cup Final. We were without Bub (holiday), the evening traffic meant players arriving late (Harry missed the first 10 minutes) and Ollie G came off after 20 minutes (injured). We battled from the kick off but eventually scored two late goals from Ollie B to ensure that we led at half time 0 - 2.

Half Time 0 - 2

We had the wind behind us in the second half and dominated possesion with two further goals from Philip and a superb solo run and goal from Oliver D ensuring that the final result was in no doubt.

Final score 0 - 5

Every single player performed their absolute best, Dec was vocal and came off his line when needed, the whole back four looked calm, confident and assured, special mention of Max's tackle on Jean (Poole Town) when the score was only 1 - 0, absolutely brilliant.The midfield took the game by the scruff of its neck and provided brilliant service to Olly and Philip, another special mention to Olly G who set the tone for the game by snuffing out the threat from Poole Town's best player (before going off injured) which really set the platform for the result.
All the parents, Phil, Mannie and Michael are very, very proud.

Match Result: Christchurch 5 v Bransgore 1

Goal Scorers: Ollie G, Philip (3), Ollie B

Our first match of the new season and the team's first competitive match at 11-a-side, what a result!!

The strikers and midfield were busy whilst the defence were rarely troubled with our goalkeeper Dec, hoping he has a similar quiet match every game.

Congratulations to Philip on scoring a hat-trick and to Ollie B and Ollie G for their goals and but for some excellent saves from the Bransgore keeper it could have been much more.

The boys did not appear phased by the larger pitch or the fact that we were playing with more players, they did not give away too many free kicks through being off side and it was a credit to all of them that they tried to play their passing game that we are used to seeing them play.

Welcome to Ollie G, Oliver, Harry and Max and welcome back to Brandon, they slotted into the team easily and all played their part in this excellent start to the season.

From one impressed but probably very biased Mum.