Christchurch v Bournemouth Electric

Match Result: 0 - 1

Match Report to follow

Christchurch v Hordle

Match Result: 1 - 3

Goal Scorer: Elliot

Match Report to follow

Christchurch v Broadstone

Match Result: 4 - 0

Goal Scorers: Taylor (2), Dan, Elliot

Match report to follow

Christchurch v Redhill Rangers

Match Result: 3 - 1

Goal Scorers: Keam, Dan, Jordyn

Match report to follow

Christchurch v Greenfields

Match Result: 4 - 0

Goal scorers: Dan, Jordyn, Bradley (2)

Match report to follow

Boscombe Albion v Christchurch

Match Result: 2 - 2

Goal Scorers: Keam, Dan A.

After several weeks without a game because of the weather, relatively warm sunshine greeted the teams. As is usual with the games between these two teams the games started at considerable pace, with no one able to settle on the ball for long. Christchurch made the brighter start, and saw more of the ball. Jordyn was troubling the Boscombe defence with his pace, and three times the Boscombe keeper had to come quickly off his line to stop him. On the third occasion Jordyn chased and retrieved the ball, but when it was squared the ball was fired over. At the other end Luke H had to be on his guard from long range efforts, before pulling off a great save from a shot close in on the left. This seemed to give Boscombe confidence and they took the lead after twently minutes. When a cross came in from the right it dropped over the Christchurch defenders and Luke H had no chance when the ball was struck first time, left footed, into the bottom corner. This acted as a spur to Christchurch and they equalised three minutes later. Good work from a combination of players including Dan A, Brad and Jordyn gave Keam to hit an unstoppable shot past the keeper. The game was being now being played end to end as both teams tried to take control. But unfortunately Boscombe got the upper hand when we conceded a free kick on the right. We cleared the ball but only to just outside the penalty area where it was hit first time into the top right hand corner. A great goal.

Half Time 2 - 1

Christchurch came out strongly in the second half as the supporters expected helped by a tactical switch by the manager. Eight minutes into the second half this paid off the ball was played to Jordyn on the left and his superb cross was met by Dan A to score. Both teams now battled to take the lead, and created half chances, as the action flowed from end to end. As the half wore on Boscombe introduced fresh players and started to enjoy more possession, but although Christchurch were tiring they held on. Despite their possession Boscombe failed to trouble keeper Luke H. Christchurch's defence was stubborn, and the team almost broke through at the end with the hard working Jordyn again involved.

Full Time 2 - 2

This was a great game, and both sides deserve applause for producing a competitive contest played in a great spirit. The small Christchurch squad deserve credit for coming back and keeping on going to end, preserving their unbeaten league record. Great stuff.

Mike Holmes

Christchurch v Rossgarth

BYFL Under 13's Cup

Match Result: 4 - 1

Goal Scorers: Robert (2), Jordan, Bradley

After a couple of weeks break it was good for the lads to play football again, and they started well with good passing moves as they dominated the opening minutes of this cup game. It was no surprise when Christchurch took the lead on ten minutes after creating several good openings. The ball was well worked from the back and through to Jordyn to score with his left foot. As the half progressed Christchurch added to their lead when they put Rossgarth pressure under pressure and Bradley was able to poke the ball home through a crowd of players, before another good passing move put in Robert to score with an accurate right foot shot. Christchurch could have had more as Rees almost capped his excellent debut with a goal when he hit the bar with a strong shot from distance. However, Rossgarth were suddenly given some hope when some hesitant defending led to a chip shot beating Luke H.

Half Time 3 - 1

The goal and a half time talk from their Manager obviously did Rossgarth some good and they started the second half determined to make a game of it. They put the Christchurch defence under pressure and perhaps lack of matches started to tell as Christchurch players tired and suffered a few knocks. Nevertheless, apart from a few good catches of efforts from a distance, Luke H was not troubled, and a tremendous run down the left by Robert led to his scoring his second goal. Christchurch were then able to see out the rest of the game to secure a spot in the next round of the Cup.

All credit to Rossgarth for making a good game of it in the end, but the lads performance in the first 25 minutes was sufficient. Well done.

Mike Holmes

Redhill Rangers v Christchurch

Match Result: 1 - 3

Goal Scorers: Jamie, Jordyn, Elliott

After a couple of weeks without a game, a depleted squad of just 11 players travelled to Oakmead for this game played in pleasant sunshine. Christchurch started into the wind, but most of the early play took place in the Redhill half and in midfield. Christchurch were seeing a lot of the ball they were unable to show much penetration and really trouble the Redhill keeper, although Elliott made a number of good runs down the right. After 20 minutes, against the run of play Redhill punished Christchurch for their lack of sharpness when a crossfield ball from the left split the Christchurch defence and Luke H was unable to do anything to stop the first time shot from finding the net. Despite this set back Christchurch continued to have more of the play, forcing a couple of corners but the tall Redhill keeper displayed safe hands. The supporters were saying that Christchurch needed an equaliser before half time. It came when a good pass from Keam found Jamie on the right hand side of the penalty area and his clinical finish found the far corner of the goal. A pleasing return after a couple of months out with injury.

Half Time 1 - 1

Although the wind appeared to be dying Christchurch had the advantage of the slope in the second half, and continued to have more of the play. Despite the often robust defending of Redhill, Christchurch started to create some chances and eventually took a deserved lead when pressure led to a corner on the right. Elliott's fine corner was deftly headed by Jordyn and the defenders on the line were unable to prevent the ball crossing the line. Christchurch could have added to the tally when good work on the right of the Redhill penalty area put in Luke M for a shot which beat the keeper, but unluckily hit the junction of post and bar and bounced along the line. Christchurch wrapped up the points when Elliott chased a ball to the byline to cross where Jordyn's run appeared to unsight the keeper and the ball came off him into the net. This was unfortunate for the Redhill keeper who made some good saves and catches during the match. Redhill tried to move forward to get into the game but found the Christchurch defence of Jack, Dan, Noah and Hugh strong, and when they were beaten Luke H made a good save. At the same time chances were being created with Brad working down the left and Elliott the right. Twice Jordyn blasted over when one on one with the keeper and could have had a hat trick!.

Full Time 1 - 3

There was a certain rustiness about the Christchurch play and a lack of players meant that the whole team had to keep going for the full game, but three points is three points. Well done!


Mike Holmes

Bournemouth Cup Round 2

Christchurch v Cannon Colts

Match Result: 4 - 0

Goal Scorers: Jordyn (2), Keam (2)

Again the squad was depleted by the injuries and absences, and was down to 11 for this Cup game, played on a pleasantly warm afternoon. Colts started well and dominated play as Christchurch took some time to get going on a bumpy pitch. Luke H saw more of the ball than his opposite number in the Cannon Colts goal, but dealt with everything easily. Gradually Christchurch started to make their passes count and as the half wore on they began to create some chances. Luke M and Max became more effective, and the game became more even. Ten minutes before half time Christchurch's passing played off and the hard working Jordyn found space to play a lovely ball for Keam to run on to and beat the keeper with a chipped shot. This gave the team the confidence they needed and they saw out the half without being threatened.

Half Time 1 - 0

Christchurch came out strongly for the second half and were unlucky not to add to their lead after a series of passing moves down the right. But their efforts received their reward five minutes into the half when Dan brought the ball out of defence and the ball was played through for Jordyn to finish in his usual manner. Christchurch were now in the ascendancy and a few minutes later Jordyn was going through again when he was taken out, and Keam scored his second from the resultant penalty. With Noah and Dan taking control in the centre of defence, and Josh and Jack stopping off moves down the flanks, Christchurch started to look comfortable, with Luke H having little to do. Going forward Brad and Hugh engaged in some neat creative passing moves and more goals looked possible. Only one more came when Jordyn again finished clinically. At the end Hugh nearly crowned a good performance when he narrowly fired over after great team work.

Full Time 4 - 0

This was a great team performance from all the players, and particular mention must be made of Keam turning out after his recent hospital stay. Great stuff!

Mike Holmes

Christchurch v Boscombe Albion

Match Result: 3 - 2

Goal Scorer: Keam (3)

Match Report to follow:

Aldershot v Christchurch

Hampshire Cup 2nd Round

Match Result: 4 - 0

A squad of 12, depleted by injuries and absences made the long journey to Surrey for this Hampshire Cup game and surprisingly found the pitch at first go! On a small pitch Christchurch found themselves under early pressure from a big, strong Aldershot team, who also displayed speed up front to add to these qualities. Against the run of play Christchurch almost took the lead when the Aldershot keeper mishandled a back pass, and was grateful to see the ball go just wide of the post. Christchurch were unfortunate to lose Taylor L with a knee injury and then with pressure building on them they failed to deal with a short corner, and the cross was volleyed home for the opening goal. The Christchurch midfield was being overrun and as the rain started the team faced another disaster when Luke M fell awkwardly when chasing back and could not continue. Down to 10 players the possibility of a heavy defeat loomed but Christchurch showed character, dug in and were able to create a few chances as the hard working Jordyn J worried the home defence. A little luck also came Christchurch's way when two Aldershot efforts hit the bar, and Hugh C cleared off the line but they were able to reach half time without conceding again.

Half time: 1 - 0.

Taylor L returned for the second half although for the most part his movement was restricted. Christchurch weathered early Aldershot pressure, and contrived to make a limited number of openings. However, eventually a second goal for Aldershot came mid way through the second half with a stunning left foot shot from outside the box - a goal worthy of winning any game. Still Christchurch battled on with Luke H commanding his area and making a number of good catches/saves. but inevitably tiredness crept in and they conceded two more goals, one a penalty after a great save by Jordan L!

Full time: 4 - 0.

I cannot praise the character of the boys too much. Their efforts were much appreciated by the travelling supporters and the home fans, and the management team alike. Best wishes to Luke M, hoping his hospital trip is a short one.

Mike Holmes

Match Result: 1 - 1

Goal Scorer: Jordyn

With a slight chill in the air and some threat of much needed rain a good crowd looked forward to this clash between old rivals. From the start it was obvious that there was some tension in the teams with neither side dominating play. Some good passing moves from defence were followed by disappointing final balls to attackers. Highcliffe were attacking mainly down their right, whilst Christchurch also were being more productive down their left side, with Jordyn Johnston finding some space. Hawks started to threaten with some long range efforts but it was Christchurch who took the lead after 25 minutes A ball over the top to Jordyn Johnston saw him take the ball on and loft it over the advancing keeper. The loss of the goal did not appear to affect Highcliffe's morale at all and they pressed for an equaliser, but the Christchurch defence stood firm.

Half Time 1-0.

The second half started in the same style as the first, but Christchurch were forced to substitute new boy Dan as the hard, bumpy ground took its toll on the players and the standard of football for both sides. Both sets of attackers were being restricted to long range shots or through passes that ran through to the keeper. However, as the game went on Highcliffe seemed to grow in confidence and started to dominate the game. At the same time Christchurch seemed to lose their passing ability. Nevertheless, the defence responded well and appeared likely to be able to see the match out without conceding until a mix up between two Christchurch players led to a Highcliffe Hawks corner. From the corner the ball fell loose and was scrambled into the goal despite the efforts of the Christchurch players on the line. From the restart Highcliffe pressed again looking for a winner, but Christchurch were able to hold out the last minute or so.

Full Time 1-1.

This was a highly competitive game played at a high tempo, but in a good spirit. Unfortunately the state of the pitch was not conducive to good football. Both sides will be disappointed that they did not get a win in this game. For Christchurch this was their poorest display this season, but they still got a point! Next week the long trip to Aldershot in the Hampshire Cup.

Mike Holmes

Match Result: Greenfields 1 v Christchurch 3

Goal Scorers: Taylor, Keam, Luke M.

On a warm sunny day with a hard pitch Christchurch were on top for first five minutes or so before Greenfields came back to create a couple of half chances and the game became even. But after fifteen mins Jordyn ran through and played the ball over the keeper but against the post. Fortunately Taylor followed up and under pressure put the ball into the net for 0-1. Christchurch became more confident and started to create good openings. Jordyn came so close when good work down the right took Taylor to the byline where he crossed but Jordyn hit it first time just past the post. There was more good play from Christchurch but they could not turn this play into goals. So Greenfields were still in the game and had a chance from a free kick but this was well taken by Luke H. Then Greenfields equalised when the ball was not cleared and a dipping shot from Greenfields star player beat Luke under the bar - the first goal conceded this season. Greenfields took heart from this and started to take control of midfield.

Half-time 1-1

The second half started with Christchurch continuing to make chances with Jordyn and Keam going close, and the Greenfields keeper looking confident. Greenfields also had a good chance but fortunately for Christchurch it was ballooned over the bar. The heat and the hard pitch was starting to have an effect on both sides, and there was a hard fought battle in midfield. Christchurch continued to produce the better chances but Greenfields saw a bit more of the ball, but Luke H. was not really troubled. The turning point in the game came in around 20 minutes from the end with a piece of skill from Keam. Latching on to a good ball forward he cleverly took on the defender by flicking it over him and went on to beat the keeper with a crisp shot for 1-2. This gave Christchurch a boost and although Greenfields had more possession Christchurch looked more dangerous on the break. From one of these breaks Christchurch won a corner on the right. Elliott's perfect corner was met strongly with his head by Luke M. to net his first of the season and make it 1-3. Greenfields now struggled against a strong Christchurch defence and the team were unfortunate that the referee's whistle went before the ball was headed in from another corner.

Full-time 1-3.

An important win against a strong physical team, when the squad was depleted by absences. Again the team showed considerable character - well done again.

Mike Holmes

Match result: Bournemouth Poppies 0 v Christchurch 9

Goal Scorers: Jordyn (4), Keam (3), Bradley, Taylor.

On a pleasantly warm afternoon Christchurch dominated play for the opening 15 minutes, putting six and seven passes together at a time but without being able to get the final ball right. Poppies threatened from a couple of free kicks without forcing Noah into a real save. So it was left to the route one method for Jordyn to run on through the Poppies defence and score. A minute later and Jordyn was through again although the keeper saved this time only for Taylor to follow up to make it 2-0. Christchurch continued to dominate possession, without adding to their total but then Jordyn crossed from the left for Keam to score at the far post. Just before half time Jordyn scored with a header which evaded the Poppies keeper.

Half Time 0 - 4

The second half was a few seconds old when a lovely ball from Max put Keam through down the right to beat keeper for the fifith. Moments later Keam went through down the right again to beat the keeper with a lovely chip for his hat trick. The game went with Christchurch creating a number of chances, but also engaging in a bit of a sloppy spell when Poppies had some half chances. Also the big Poppies keeper stood up well to a number of shotsas well as coming out to clear a number of through balls. Bradley had hit some good shots from distance before he beat the keeper from a narrow angle with the help of the post. As Poppies tired Jordyn completed his hat trick with a shot from distance, before rounding off the scoring when he volleyed a final goal when the ball came to him from a miss hit shot.

Full Time 0 - 9

All round a comfortable win for Christchurch whilst keeping another clean sheet.

Mike Holmes

Hampshire Cup 1st Round

Match Result: Christchurch 3 v Newchurch Colts Youth 0

Goal Scorers: Taylor (2), Keam

Last season the team went out in this round to another Isle of Wight team with a sloppy performance, and the management were keen not to repeat this. From what was known of Newchurch Colts this was not going to be an easy fixture, with the squad depleted by injuries. Although Christchurch had the greater share of the ball in the early stages a couple of Newchurch players showed exceptional pace which could be a threat. A couple of half chances were created by Christchurch as a result of some excellent corners by Taylor, before Keam seized on a through ball and slotted the ball past the keeper into the corner of the net after 20 minutes or so of play. Although Newchurch did not apply any pressure they continued to offer some threat down their left, but half time approach and Christchurch were unable to kill the game off.

Half time 1 - 0.

In the second half Christchurch continued to have more of the ball but were unable to make the final telling pass, but then Keam found Taylor who was able to finish off the move. Newchurch continued to battle but to some extent their pace threat was nullified by switching Noah to the right midfield position. Despite this their heads did not drop and they continued to make Christchurch work hard to find that 'killer' pass. However, Keam was able to play a good ball for Taylor to take his tally to five for the season.

Full time 3 - 0

A good, hard fought game, but a deserved win giving the boys the right to play at Aldershot in the next round.

Mike Holmes

Match Result: Ringwood Rangers 0 v Christchurch 6

Goal Scorers: Jordan (3), Max (2), Keam

The second game of the season and almost unchanged squad for this evening game away at Ringwood. Based on last year a tough game was expected, and a big strong Ringwood side proved this to be right. They chased and tackled so that Christchurch found it difficult to get into their normal passing stride which meant that the game was a bit scrappy. Christchurch enjoyed a lot of the ball but were unable to break through, and given the packed midfield Ringwood's threat in attack was sporadic. The half reached its end with neither side really carving out any clear cut chances, but the Christchurch supporters hoped that Ringwood would be unable to sustain their efforts for the second 35 minutes.

Half time 0 - 0.

Christchurch started the second half brightly, with some neat passing moves and this had its reward when the ball was fed to Max to open the scoring early in the half. This helped to settle Christchurch, and with the defence dominating, and the midfield starting to get passes together a second was inevitable coming from Jordyn. The chances started to come now, as Jordyn scored a second in his usual style, Keam cleverly beat the Ringwood keeper before Max scored his second with another good shot. As Ringwood tired, Christchurch worked the bench and in the gathering gloom Jordyn completed his first hat trick of the season.

Full time 0 - 6

A tremendous second half performance, following a battling first half which bodes well for the challenges ahead.

Mike Holmes

Match Result: Christchurch 4 v Cannon Colts 0

Goal Scorers: Taylor (3), Bradley.

Match report to follow