Saturday Review

Division One

Well, who'd have thought that St Thomas' could have beaten Clarendon? Not me, that's for sure. In my predictions pre-season, I had put Clarendon top and St Thomas' bottom. And driving home from the game I reffed I was thinking that perhaps Clarendon could have another unbeaten season and perhaps get closer to winning every game. How wrong I was.

Having texted Roger from Clarendon, he confirms that they had a few missing players, but I think that goes for the majority of clubs every Saturday morning. St Thomas' certainly had players out too. Congratulations to St Thomas'. They are one of just two Division One clubs that have won all their games so far this season. Very healthy for the League.

St Thomas' Rob Hill says: After going behind to a clinical finish we got back into just before half time, when a Dave Plant free kick slipped through the keeper's hands. We battled away in the second half and with 15 minutes to go Stu Bottomer knocked one in from close range and Andy Carter sealed the victory just before the end with a cool finish. Great credit to Clarendon's players and officials who were very gracious in defeat.

St Thomas' Stuart Bottomer adds: I just wanted to add to Rob's comments as he did not mention the officials who had an outstanding game. The ref was faultless and he ref’d the game with a great attitude. Unfortunately for the WMCFL I don’t think it will be too long before he moves on up the ranks.

St Matthew's fail to capitalise on the opportunity to go top and draw with City Church who played their first League game yesterday. I have a couple of reports: Firstly Martin Nicholls writes: A match we really should have won and viewing other results, really compounds the frustration. We dominated the first fifteen minutes but could not capitalise chances went begging with great efforts just missing, good saves and poor finishing all to blame. Just as it seemed we were going to score at any time City broke and scored. We went on missing chances until Andrew Spencer slid in at the far post to equalise. We went into half time honours even with City putting up a good fight but we really felt that we should have been up given the chances we had.

Second half was a similar tale: chances went begging and City broke and scored. We lost our cool and lost shape but we equalised when Martin Nicholls scored after some neat build up play. We played well in this game and had enough chances to win two games but inexplicably did not take enough of them. If you don't score more than your opponents then you don't win games and we need to put teams to the sword so to speak. We did have a few missing but put out a strong team. To make matters worse for us (worse for City in the long run I'm sure) they were reduced to 10 and then 9 late on - they did put up a strong fight and credit must be given to them for not giving up and folding. We need to pick ourselves up and make sure that any chances next week are put away!!

Martin Ogbourn says: A pulsating game at Wolverhampton University between St Matthews and City Church. It was a courageous, battling, against-the-odds performance from City as we ended the game with nine men (I apologise on behalf of the club for the two red cards - our first red cards in four years - the players swore in frustration and paid the consequences - there was not a bad or malicious tackle in the game which the referee will verify, and we fully support the League's standards and Discipline Code).

The game started with St Matthew's on top, passing the ball well and attacking in numbers, but both teams created chances and had a share of possession. City broke the deadlock through a good run and finish from Dave Louden after 20 minutes. However, City were undone before half time when a ball was not cleared from a set play and was scrambled into the net to leave it 1-1 at the break. City were already down to 10 men at this stage.

The second half started evenly and City took the lead again from a composed finish from Torq Smith after brave work from Daniel Atkins to leave it 2-1 with 30 minutes remaining. St Matthew's increasingly pushed forward as the half wore on, but Stuart Eustace (who was again outstanding in goal in his first game back) pulled off some quality saves to preserve the lead. It took a good finish from Martin Nicholls to equalise and leave a fraught last quarter of the game. City dug in and defended bravely with good blocks, tackles and clearances. Special mention to Daniel Atkins who worked tirelessly as the lone striker for most of the game and kept possession well. However, it was an all round team effort with the defence marshalled brillantly and the midfield lads covering every blade of grass on the field. The draw was a fair result in the end as City competed well with 9,10 and 11 men.

St Mary's took full advantage of Clarendon's and St Matthew's slips but only just! I have two reports for this game too: St Mary's Jon Jackaman first: After last weeks disappointment against Clarendon, it was important that we got back on track. Fielding a weakened side (see what I mean?-Ed) after several departures to university, we knew this would be tricky test against one of the League's more difficult teams to play against.

The first ten minutes saw Rowley on top and new keeper Phil Lutwyche had a bruising introduction to St Mary's when he bravely gathered at the feet of the Rowley winger and got hit in the process. We started to come more into the game and were gifted an opener when the keeper scuffed a clearance straight to me and I had the simple job of putting it in the net. Within a few minutes we were two up when a ball over the top from Phil "Stag" Steele was superbly controlled by Josh Blunt (sporting a new streamlined haircut) and he showed great composure to put us two-nil up. A few minutes later and we were three up when a lovely flowing move saw Stag put across a ball and I turned and scored my second of the morning. Shortly after it should have been four when once again a great move saw Jon Bignell in space on the right and he put across a fantastic ball that Blunt got first to but couldn't keep his shot down and the ball clipped the bar. At this stage we were wondering how many it would be and as a result our standards slipped and our play became sloppy. They pulled a goal back just before half time with a nice finish that Phil didn't stand a chance with.

The second half was a scrappy affair with both teams not really creating many chances. Then with twenty to go, Hunter scored a goal that left the keeper with no chance and it was game on. Hayden had replaced Stag at half time due to injury and saved a certain goal as he intercepted a cross from the Rowley right hand side. Fortunately we battled to the end and held on for the win that our overall play probably just deserved.

Rowley's Pete Bennett adds: After last season's results, this score is perhaps not a surprise but actually this one was a bit of a damp squib on a slippy, bumpy pitch. Perhaps these two teams who normally trade attacks instead cancelled one another out. Certainly we almost managed to cancel the game as a contest by slipping incompetently down the slope into a 0-3 deficity within 25 minutes, at which pointed St Mary's started to play their football. If anything we'd come out the traps better (though not better) but an uncharacteristic howler from our keeper (who was otherwise excellent and will I'm sure be a significant asset) let St Mary's in and then a Rob Hill gaff let in Josh Blunt and we were struggling. Add to this a turn that had for us a suspicion of a hand and at 0-3 and disarray it looked like all of our early season promise had gone.

Then as the game drifted towards half time Jamie Hunter walked through half of their defence to square for Adam Rose to give us hope. I made changes in the second half and the game went back to the even contest we've come to expect against St Mary's. Both sides went close and we made it even more interesting with twenty minutes to go when Jamie Hunter drilled in brilliantly from an unlikely angle. Thereafter chances both ends and a very disappointing outcome for us!

Sheldon earn their first points of the season, gaining revenge for their Cup exit a fortnight ago. Amblecote's Simon Ashby says: A really disappointing game today. After two defeats and beating Sheldon in the Cup we all thought this would kickstart our League campaign but it never materialised. In fairness, we had eight players out injured or absent so only had eleven fit players unfortunately and I think it told.

Sheldon played well. They are stronger than last year and we are still learning to gel as a team, but they deserved the win. They were first to most balls and most challenges and despite us being 1-0 up at the break we never really looked in control and the tide firmly turned in the second half with three goals for the visitors.

Hopefully our game against our Nemesis team DK next week will get us on track. Football being football we are still hoping for seventeen straight wins now.... fifty-one points.... that should win the League!

King's also register their first win of the season: a 3-0 away win at Dynamo. It's bottom versus second from bottom next week as Amblecote are visited by Dynamo. DK's Jason Russell reports on yesterday's match: A disappointing game for us with very little to take out of the first half that was dominated by a physical King's AFC. We found ourselves three down. Second half with some tatical changes gave us a better performance that we will take with us for a must win game next week away at Amblecote. King's AFC will surely challenge the big boys this season based on this performance. The players will respond positivity next week I'm sure. One of the positives we took from this game was the second half entry of Mathew Price who came on a sub. To say that he had been struck down with a major virus pre-season that the experts said would keep him out of football was a real blow to us and Nug. To watch him in full flow and challenging just like the old days came with both blessing on what God can do and fear on damaging his recovery. Football has many emotions and we today should many.

Division Two

W&P take their time to win yesterday against a Sandwell side that perhaps you'd have expected to roll over after last week's pasting. Tom Baugh from W&P reports: Wolves struggled for long periods but eventually broke down a much improved Sandwell outfit to secure their second league win in as many games. I only played for about an hour, before having to depart for the Wolves match, so the descriptions of the goals are supplied by Uncle Rich.

In the time I was on the pitch, what I did see was a much more resilient Sandwell team, working for each other and giving absolutely everything. I would have been interested to see how the home side reacted to conceding, as that has often proved their downfall, but given the narrow margin of victory, it seems they’ve found some much needed resolve. I can see them turning a few teams over this season, but whether that saves them from relegation, I'm not so sure.

The first half was a frustrating affair, with Wolves largely dominating but unable to break Sandwell down. Tom missed a one-on-one after nipping in to take advantage of a mix up between the defender and keeper, Olly had a shot cleared off the line and Nat saw a long range effort narrowly go over. Crosses were raining in from both sides but the Sandwell keeper was claiming many of them and when he didn’t there always seemed to be a red shirt to clear the danger.

At the other end of the pitch, the back three of Scott, Phil and Kev were keeping Sandwell attacks to a minimum, but there was the odd scare as the home side counter-attacked well and commited men forward. However, Uncle Rich didn’t really have a save to make; his only touches being routine fielding and kicking.

The second half started as the first had ended, with Wolves pushing forward trying to get the breakthrough. Stevie had a shot on the turn comfortably saved and Olly ran through only for the keeper to smother the ball. Olly and Tom departed for the Wolves match, with Luke and Ash coming on to inject some fresh ideas into the attack.

When Wolves did get the goal, it came from Stevie who has had a cracking start to the season. After the ball was worked over to Jas, he whipped in a great cross which Stevie headed in, much to the relief of the visitors. The killer goal came from Chris Roberts (his first for the club if I’m not mistaken - correct me if am), after a mazy run from Mozza committed a number of Sandwell players, he slipped the ball through to Chris who slammed the ball home past the impressive home keeper.

Sandwell's Myles Wilson adds: Today's match against W&P was a big improvement from last week, (90%) we closed down their players quicker in defence & battled harder in midfield, who all played well. The only thing lacking was the finish. The game was tight & equally matched, we had cleared two shots off the line in the first half. It was 0-0 with about 15-20 minutes to go and looked like it was going to be a draw, but then an excellent cross came from the right wing and met beautifully with a header which left the keeper with no chance. The second goal came shortly after.We had some good attacking play but finishing was lacking as mentioned before. Although we lost I was happy with the way the team played.

Renewal Solihull swap places with Wolves as they can only draw with Selly Oak. I have to apologise to Selly Oak, whom I predicted as champions. They have no win in two and lie in eighth place. Solihull's Brian Follows reports: A feisty game for a young referee to handle with a tenacious Selly Oak side not allowing Renewal any time or space to play. Selly Oak playing with the slope went in front when the Renewal centre backs trying to clear the danger only managed to play in the Selly Oak striker to score.

In the Second Half Renewal created good chances but a mixture of poor finishing and good defending kept them at bay. Just when it looked Renewal's unbeaten run had gone, a late penalty saved the day.

Walsall Olympic look like a force to be reckoned with as they dispatch the old enemy Chawn Hill 7-0 with Carl Lawrence grabbing five on his debut. Chawn have uncharacteristically conceded twelve goals already in their three matches in the League.

West Brom move up to fourth with an impressive win against Zion Athletic. If I'm honest, I expected Zion to cruise past West Brom but the pinks put in the best display under this new set up. West Brom's Alfi Westwood takes up the story: Lion Farm was the location the sleeping giant awoke. A West Brom team turned up bright and early we had a chat before the game our confidence was down after back to back 4-1 defeats. We spoke about basic football play and were told to put a performance in that we could be proud of. Both teams started with attack in mind and both team's defences were tested early but it was Beacons who took the lead with a 20 yard grub-hunter from Stu Rogers.

Zion pressed for a equaliser but a free kick ten yards into our half was pumped over by myself for Ash Hamer to get the slightest of touches to steal, sorry claim the goal. Zion still kept the pressure on but Pete Mellor caught them on the break and rocketed the ball into the top corner.

The second half started a bit differently to the first. Zion for twenty minutes destroyed us. I was going to say we soaked it up but I think on any other day Zion could have drawn level. Their pace and passing was impressive but against the run of play Ash Hamer managed to net his second. Zion still had fight and kept their passing tight, they scored with about twenty minutes to go making it 4-1. Beacons dug deep and Ash Hamer sneaked in on the back post to score his third of the game.

Beacons thought the game was in the bag, maybe we forgot to tell Zion, they came straight back at us and scored again beautiful little chip. We must have dug deeper (we couldn't have been that far off oil): Mike Davies slams the ball into the net and its six. Zion STILL came at us and scored a goal to bring the score to 6-3. With seven minutes to go Ash Hamer capped off a great day with his fourth goal to seal the deal. Ash gave a breathtaking preformance also a mention for Ryan Venable, Stu Rogers and Paul Beagen who had great games, all of us did. It was a great game for us. Fair play to Zion, I think it was a case of us having a good day and them having a bad one but their speed and aggresion was something else.

I'm sure they will bounce back from this and I pity the team that plays them when everything falls into place. A quick mention to the ref who had a great game, let the play flow and only made a few mistakes but no one is perfect, cheers Ed.

Jallen texted: The most shocking performance I've been part of in a Zion Athletic shirt. As you can see from the score-line, Beacons made the most of it.

St Boniface came out on top in what turned out to be a mid-table clash with a 3-2 win. St Boniface were winning 3-0 but St Boniface's James Gray says two nightmares from me in goal let them back in the game.

Division Three

Birmingham International remain on top of Division Three despite dropping points away at Elim Athletic. Richard Taylor says: I have to say we were robbed today. Two goals through mistakes at the back. However a poor game for us still sees us with a point and the team suffered several injuries. Their third goal was superb from a free kick. Our man of the match has to be Merdhaz at right back. Nathan had a hat full of chances but failed to convert. Morgan was moved into the middle to offer a more stern defence. Amin played exceptionally well with his distribution through the middle and also managed to score. The big man up front played young Saman in for a tap in and the game conluded with a draw. Morgan claims his shot was from 45 yards. I think he was up too late last night.

Ed adds: There were three matches played at Lion Farm yesterday. All the referees shared a dressing room. In the post-match chat Martin Cook commented on what a great game it was.

Jon Earp also chips in: A hard game today against a well organised Birmingham International. We never got out of first gear and were lucky to come away with a point. B’ham opened the scoring after I fumbled a free kick. We soon got back into the game with an own goal at the other end when Sean Mckenna’s shot was pushed onto the on running defender from the keeper. The half finished 1-1 with B’ham Int playing the better football. We picked up a few injuries in the first half and that added to a bad day at the office.

Inter continued as they finished moving the ball well and creating a number of chances bringing me into action on more than one occasion. Inter took the lead after a wayward shot was deflected into the goal. After a few subs Elim started to play a little bit of football although in dribs and drabs. Ryan Reeson come on to bag a much needed goal, but no sooner had we pulled one back Inter grabbed a late goal from a quick counter attack, which they must have thought was the match winner. Elim put the pressure on and won a free kick, which Sean Mckenna rifled into the top corner in the last minute. Birmingham International will feel they could have and maybe should have picked up the win but we never gave up the fight. Although we never played well in this game we still got a point and can still feel very confident as we know we can a lot better.

Champions Church move into third place winning 5-1 'away' at DC despite losing a man two minutes into the game. Shawn Devonport grabbing four of the five. It would appear that he found his scoring boots after mis-firing so far this year. Shawn writes: Well we played away to DC even though it was at Dudley Wood this game was going to be a totally different game on the smallest pitch of the three.

We got off to an awful start with us being reduced to ten men after two minutes and the night before realising Dave Oakley wasn't fit enough to play. The sending off meant we adopted a 4-3-2 formation which meant the middle men had to work twice as hard. But we responded really well but were only 2-1 up at half time but in truth our keeper never made a save all half. The second half saw us raise the bar a little and again our keeper never made a save and we should really have scored more than the three second half goals we did with the DC keeper making some impressive saves. DC battled well and I'm sure with a few more matches under there belt they will start to win.

But for us another good win, with some very good performances with Rion Mills playing one of the best games I've ever seen from a player in the WMCFL. He never lost the ball once and orchestrated everything for us. People may see I scored four goals but Rion's performance was far and away the best on the pitch. Tim Bamber was everywhere again and our back four were solid again with Daniel Wallece especially being immense at the back. Next week see's us play Elim and then Birmingham International so two big matches that we look forward to!

Lighthouse Lions continue their excellent start to their WMCFL life with another solid win, this time Brierley Hill were the victims. Lighthouse's Ray Rose says: Our First Home league match and we started positively, with our midfield well on top in the early exchanges. After two minutes Brierley Hill were awarded a penalty but this was well saved by Adam Campbell. Working the ball well within five minutes we had a shot go wide with a move from Lewis Cotterill, and Adam Elcock setting up Stephen Gosling.

Brierley Hill AOG were having trouble clearing their lines and after ten minutes, Adam Elcock, sprung from midfield and assisted by Stephen Gosling opened the scoring. Other chances followed, and Adam Powell went close on twenty minutes. Brierley Hill AOG were now getting used to the pace of the ball using their wide men to good effect. No 7 for Brierley Hill caused the most problems for us with his hard working play.

Second half, Brierley Hill were more and more into the game and on 46 minutes they equalised. A tight battle was now waged in the midfield and both teams went close, but at 68 minutes Adam Elcock assisted by James Clarke took a well timed 2nd goal. The play was still tight with both teams having more chances but on 83 minutes, Adam Elcock (my Man of the Match) once again scored, he now had his hat trick, when he ran through the Brierley Hill defence.

Andy Jakes came on for James Clarke in the 78th minute, once again a solid display from James Clarke. James Doris and Stephen Gosling were now becoming more influential in the game as the matched stretched on. And as and Carl James and Adam Powel worked hard to maintain the balance in midfield, Marcus McLaren on 85 minutes assisted by Adam Elcock scored our 4th goal. At 87 minutes Stephen Gosling scored our 5th goal, assisted by Marcus McLaren and James Doris scored on 90minutes after a tireless battle up front to make the outcome 6 -1 to Lighthouse Lions.

MBD United move into fourth place, now with two wins from three games. They beat All Nations 4-2. Shiloh and Rockmount share the points as they draw one a piece.

A note from the League Secretary

Would Club Secretaries please be reminded to complete the Man of the Match nomination on all Match Report forms. You have to nominate a player from the opposition by entering their shirt number on your form.

Quite a few match report forms have this information missed off.

Many thanks - Neil Kovacs

This Saturday

We are now in the thick of the season with September's last Saturday this week-end. The forecast is for another warm, dry, sunny day; so make the most of it while it lasts. I'm sure the frost will be upon us shortly.

Division One

This Saturday, St Thomas' are the latest team put put their heads in the Lion's mouth that is Clarendon. The current League Champions are looking very strong this year but St Thomas' are made of stern stuff. If St Thomas' spring a surprise, they may overtake Clarendon.

Second-placed Halesowen Zion take the day off, as if they needed that! With eleven clubs in the Division, there's always going to be one kicking their heels. In third, St Matthew's are visited by City Church, who are the only team yet to see live action in the top flight. St Matthew's will be looking to build on their impressive win away at Amblecote last week.

It's fourth versus fifth as Rowley travel to St Mary's. Rowley won their opening game last week and will be keen to maintain the 100% record but St Mary's will want to put their defeat at the hands of Clarendon behind them. I think they will be weakened by university departures but I'm sure will field a strong team.

King's visit Dynamo this week-end. Both clubs have tasted Division two football recently and I'm sure will both want to avoid dropping a division again. And lastly and surprisingly, down at the basement of D1 is a re-run of one of the League Cup's first round fixtures, Amblecote versus Sheldon. Amblecote won that last match by the odd goal in five and I'm sure this one will go the distance too.

Division Two

Top of the table Solihull will face a tougher test as they visit Selly Oak Methodist. Selly Oak will want to secure all three points if they are to fulfil my prediction as Division Two winners, however Solihull are looking strong with a deep and talented squad.

Wolves will want a better start to their ninety minutes than the short debacle of last week. And I'm sure Sandwell will want to put a spoke in the wheel of W&P's campaign to restore top flight football as the two teams clash at Lion Farm.

E K Corinthia return to action against St Boniface and Chawn face Walsall Olympic at South Road. It's Walsall's first game of the season this Saturday. This fixture would have been a blood and guts affair a dozen or so years ago and would have quite likely had a major bearing on the outcome of the League title. Chawn won the Championship in 1991, 92 and 93, the only club ever to win three back to back titles. Walsall took the mantle in 1994, 96 and 97. I wonder how many are left still playing from those teams?

And lastly Zion Athletic play West Bromwich Beacons, which I will be refereeing.

Division Three

Division Three is beginning to take shape, with Birmingham International leading the way in the early stages. They will need to play well if they to beat Elim who knocked in nine last Saturday and lie in second. DC Dynamos entertain neighbours Champions Church, who share grounds in the first of many Dudley Wood derbies.

Fifth placed MBD travel to Wolverhampton to take on All Nations, who presently prop up the League. Brierley Hill, the third and last WMCFL club yet to play a League match take on Lighthouse Lions who have started well.

And lastly Shiloh take on Rockmount, neither of whom have registered a point yet.

Good luck, have fun and enjoy yourselves and get those results and scorers to me as soon as you can. We had 1088 people hit the site last Saturday.

More Match Reports from Saturday

Phil George writes: (This has received some heavy editing to protect us both from litigation-Ed) Following two postponements Renewal finally got their season underway with a match with ‘Black Country’ opponents Sandwell United. The young and inexperienced Sandwell side were beaten by a ruthless and professional Renewal team, a side in which the unrivalled Dennis Bailey couldn’t even command a place on the substitutes bench. Once again manager Brian Follows’ team selection proves that he has the winning formula; the addition of new signing Richard Allen was a master-stroke of managerial brilliance and the bold inclusion of fit again Paul Meadows, in his favoured right full-back role, was sheer genius.

Richard Allen opened the scoring, following a period of sustained pressure, with a controlled eighteen-yard volley after just seven minutes. Three minutes later and Joey Clarke had added a second with an equally spectacular goal. Only fifteen minutes had gone when a swift five-man move ended as right-sided midfielder Tim Payne’s powerfully drilled shot found the roof of the visitors net, with United’s ‘keeper expecting the ball to be crossed to the three unmarked Renewal forwards screaming for a pass. With Sandwell’s defence at sixes and sevens, Richard Allen grabbed Renewal’s fourth with another blistering thirty-yard drive before Joey Clarke added a fifth; latching onto a monster John Purvin clearance, Joey volleyed over United’s advancing ‘keeper from twenty-five yards.

The second forty-five minutes followed the same pattern as the first Richard Allen sealed his debut hat trick, which signalled the opening of the floodgates. Having failed to trouble the United ‘keeper for most of the afternoon Jon Follows finally got ‘in on the act’ netting a fairly mundane effort for Renewal’s seventh and not to be out done Scott Murrell tapped-in from close range to put Renewal ‘out of sight’. Luke Hazlehurst reacted quickest in a crowded Renewal penalty area, following a long throw-in, to score Sandwell’s late consolation after ‘keeper John Purvin had saved magnificently on several occasions at the feet of United’s on-rushing forwards. Richard Allen made the afternoon his most memorable when he added his fourth goal of the day; smashing an unstoppable shot past the Sandwell ‘keeper after a farcical six-yard box melee. Renewal hit double figures just five minutes from time when Scott Murrell fired a low fizzing drive into the bottom corner of the net from twenty-yards.

W&P's Tom Baugh writes about their match on Saturday away at St Boniface. Wolves fought back from three goals down to kick their league campaign off with a win against a well organised St. Boniface side.

The less said about the shorts debacle in the pre-match build up the better. To cut a long story short (pun intended), Olly had taken the kits to the dry cleaners and it appeared that they hadn’t returned the carrier bag with the clean kit in, meaning we didn’t have enough shorts for everyone. Kev reasoned he could drive back to his house, pick up a few pairs of shorts and get back in time for kick off. He was wrong! Wolves kicked off with only ten men on the pitch, believing that Kev would return soon after kick off. Unfortunately, by the time he did return, it was twenty-five minutes into the game and Wolves had just gone 2-0 down.

St. Boniface broke the deadlock from the spot, after Jas was adjudged to have committed the foul. Speaking to him after the game, Jas didn’t believe he’d caught the player, didn’t think it was in the box and said the player he’d supposedly tripped admitted it wasn’t a pen. However, the penalty was duly dispatched low and into the corner, sending Uncle Rich the wrong way.

The second goal for the home side was a close range header after a pin-point cross took out three Wolves defenders in the build up. Unfortunately, even the introduction of Kev couldn’t stop St. Boniface adding to their lead before the break. A long punt forward drew Rich out of his goal and when the ball wasn’t cleared properly, the St. Boniface midfielder found the precision finish to plant the ball in the top corner. Half time: St. Boniface 3 W&P 0

A lot of frustration came out at the interval, with everyone unhappy about how we’d played at both ends of the pitch. It was eventually agreed we’d wait ten minutes before making tactical changes in an attempt to swing the momentum back in our direction. Wolves were immediately on the front foot in the second period but couldn’t turn possession and chances into goals. Tom, the one sub, was thrown on in place of Chris as Wolves went 4-3-3 in the hunt for goals. Nath finally made the breakthrough when he diverted Olly’s shot from the edge of the box into the corner of the net. Fortunately, from a Wolves perspective this opened the floodgates and by the end of the match, they could have had more than the five they eventually got.

Stevie got the second with a precision lob that the goalie got his fingernails to but was unable to prevent rolling over the line. Wolves were level just a few minutes later when Jason’s precision through ball sent Tom clear and he finished low beyond the advancing keeper. Again, the keeper got a hand on the shot and on another day might have kept it out. Olly gave Wolves the lead when he was sent clear by another accurate pass from Jas and finished with customary aplomb for his third goal in two games.

It is worth remembering that while these goals were going in for Wolves, St. Boniface did break away a number of times and could easily have taken something from the game. One far post cross for the home side was inches away from being converted and it took a cynical Kev Preece foul to end a charge towards goal from St. Boniface’s energetic winger.

Wolves wrapped up the win with the goal of the day from Stevie. After receiving a pass from Phil, he controlled the ball, turned and curled in an unstoppable shot from the edge of the box. We all know Stevie has the ability to do that kind of thing more often, so hopefully we’ll continue to see it.

Martin Glasspole - Renewal Solihull

I am taking part in the Great North Run on the 5th October in which I will attempt to make it around the 13.1 mile course from Newcastle to South Shields. I am running on behalf of The Parkinson's Disease Society and would be very grateful if you would like to sponsor me. I have set up an online sponsorship form and the link is below, if you provide your address and postcode the charity will also be able to claim Gift Aid.

www.justgiving.com/martinglasspole11

Saturday Review Continued

I've a couple of late reports, one from one of Clarendon's new boys Tommy Woodward and one from St Thomas' old boy Rob Hill. See yesterday's Division One write-up.

Division Two

Renewal Solihull hop straight to the top of Division two with a goal feast at home to Sandwell. Solihull's Head Honcho Brian Follows says: Good performances all over the pitch for Renewal today and some quality finishing gave them a comfortable victory although the score-line was some what flattering with the Renewal goalkeeper making some great saves.

Wolves and Perton sit in second spot and overtake EK on goals scored, although it's very early days just yet. I reffed their game with St Boniface yesterday. After a debacle with the kit, Wolves started with ten men and St Boniface made them pay scoring three in the first half. The third was the pick of the goals, a finish from Jason Walsh (I think it was Jason) that would have graced any football park.

The second period was a different story, with W&P restored to full compliment and even able to bring on Tom Baugh as a sub. Wolves scored early on a little fortuitously: A goal-bound effort was deflected into the path of the predetory striker who got a toe-end to divert the ball into the net. St Boniface clung onto their lead until the 75th minute but Wolves proved too strong in the end. The fifth and final repost from Wolves was also a super finish with Steve McGarry turning and 'passing' the ball into the bottom right corner of the net from outside the box, leaving the keeper with little chance of getting to the shot.

W&P's Rich Webster texted: A game of two halves with the first a fiasco for us. With us trailing 3-0 to a soft penalty (which we couldn't argue with), a back post header and a poor goalkeeping clearance leading to the third goal. The half time post mortem saw a radical change to our formation, an early tactical substitution and an upswing in our performance to bounce back with some well-taken goals to reward our perseverance.

Chawn Hill Church bounce back from an indifferent start to the season with a 4-1 win away at West Brom Beacons. The win leaves them in fourth place.

Zion Athletic and Selly Oak Methodist both get off the mark with a two-all draw at the WMCFL infested Lion Farm. There were eight WMCFL teams in action last Saturday on their pitches. It was like Greets Green in the good-old days. Selly Oak's Jason Weston-Tate reports: A good game which was definitely one for the spectators as there was chances at both ends in and end to end match. We finished the half 2-0 up with goals from Joel Richards and from Sean Burke both breaking from midfield and scoring good goals. Again at half time I made my point clear about the importance of the next goal and again it was the opposition who got the goal that changed the game making it 2-1 and putting the pressure on us with Zion pushing forward for the equaliser which they eventually got bringing it back to 2-2. Both teams created good chances with Selly Oak wasting theirs with poor shots but Zion Athletic repeatedly testing our goalkeeper with their chances but a man of the match from our keeper Josh Wright kept them at bay. Game finished 2-2 with both teams hitting the crossbar late on in the game. I think Ed's prediction could come true of 1st and 2nd as Zion have a couple of very good players. A draw maybe fair but we go home disappointed with 2 points LOST not 1 point Gained.

Division Three

Birmingham International sit three points clear at the top of Division Three. They have a game in hand but nevertheless, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. I would also add that neither of their opposition have been lightweight opposition. Richard Taylor provides a match report: We started with plenty of depth and strength only to concede two goals early on resulting from our mistakes at the back. The team dug deep and pulled it back level and it was 3-2 to D C Dynamos at the half time whistle.

It may sound biased but I thought we played the better football throughout the game which didn't help Dynamo with having their keeper sent off for handling outside of the area. Richard Maycock(c) was solid at the back along with 'Vidic' and a good performance by the 'Big Man' up front saw us punish the opposition with ten men. Playing good football is one thing but converting your chances is another. If we continue in this vein of form we will do well this season. A great game and we look forward to next week!

Mark Crouch adds: We were strolling it until our keeper was sent off. We didn't think he had handled outside the area but the referee believed he had so that was that.

Elim Athletic started life in Division Three with a 9-4 win at home to All Nations. Sean Mckenna sank four and goes equal top with Nathan Atkinson of Rockmount. I think Sean will be up there come the end of the season, he's a proven goal-scorer and I'm sure he'll be in the top ten of the All Time Top Scorers by April if he sticks around. Sean provides a match report: Lovely day for football today (the pitches were in excellent nick, saved from being cut up last week as all games were called off at Lion Farm-Ed), which seemed to get us into the right frame of mind. We took an early lead after a bit of confusion at the back and Sean Mckenna prodding home from 12 yards. We then switched off at the back soon after going in front we were pegged back to 1-1. In a very end to end first half, Walter Mapako burst through from midfield to make it 2-1. It was soon 2-2 after another lapse of concentration from a corner which saw us struggling to clear our lines again. Just before the break we took the lead again with Emeka Agbeze robbing the last defender of possession and slotting it round the keeper to make it 3-2. We had some good points put across at the half time team talk, which got us fired up to go again.

It was all to play for in the second half, with both teams going for the win. Chris Smith was next on the score sheet with a nice half volley just inside the 18 yard box, 4-2. We extended our lead further when Jon our stand in goalie today, launched it to the half way line with Sean Mckenna running it down the line and slotting it past the oncoming keeper. With us 5-2 up and getting quite lazy in our play, we were soon awake again when the ref awarded a penalty against us for a push in the back. Although our keeper got a hand on it the penalty was converted to make it 5-3. Chris Smith was back on the score sheet soon after the pen when he was sent through on goal to make it 6-3. Walter put Sean in on goal again with a lovely diagonal ball which was lobbed over the goalie and tapped in to make it 7-3. It was soon 8-3 with Dean O’Leary cutting into the box and playing it square for Sean Mckenna to knock in. Dean was soon on the score sheet with some lovely passing down the left wing, with the ball being squared on the 18 yard box, Dean met it nicely with a low driven shot to make it 9-3. With seconds to go a lapse of concentration from the goalie allowed the ball to bounce over his arms and into the net 9-4. All in all a good performance from both teams on a lovely day.

Lighthouse Lions are enjoying themselves in WMCFL. After pushing W&P last week in the Cup, I'm led to believe that the 5-2 score-line flattered Wolves according to an independent witness, they went onto win their first league match, a 2-0 win away at MBD. I was also told that MBD were unlucky to lose, which is somewhat corroberated by the match reports: Lighthouse's Ray Rose says: Our first league adventure, and it was a winning one. The game started with both teams keeping close order of the ball, but after five minutes a ball won in midfield by Lewis Cottrill and was well taken down by Marcus Mclaren, who shot across goal. Again Lighthouse pressed forward and this time Steve Gosling weaved passed two players before just shooting wide. At ten minutes a great move involving Carl Jones and Steven Goslings found Marcus McLaren wide on the right who controlled the ball before hitting a dipping shot fully 25 yards out into the roof of the net.

Our lads pressed more and more and again had a chance with a cross by Adam Elcock going wide. MBD, had chances down their right hand side and at times looked dangerous, but in the 23rd Minute a hard working Adam Elcock got his just rewards for an outstanding display with a well worked goal.

After the break MBD were beginning to impose themselves in midfield and were creating chances. Lighthouse again looked dangerous on the break and nearly scored again, when Marcus McLaren almost got Adam Elcock in on goal. After 63 minutes our first sub, James Doris came on for the hard working Steve Gosling. More chances followed for both teams, but Lighthouses defence marshalled by Dale Sloan and James Clarke, (My man of the Match), were immense. Two more subs were introduced, Sam Painter for Luke Nemmith and Lewis Matthews for Justin Kearns.

At the end of the game we can say we had a good match in which MBD contributed much.

MBD's Neil Howard adds: MBD will come away from today's game feeling more than a little aggreaved not to have got the three points. Lighthouse started fairly strong and within 15 minutes MBD had conceeded two sloppy goals. After this MBD settled and controlled the game for large portions but without really creating anything. MBD had a shot hit the post in the first half and one tipped onto the cross bar in the second but other than that they could not turn their superior possession into chances in the final third.

Credit to Lighthouse Lions, they looked dangerous on the counter attack and are well organised, however MBD will go into the away game with a point to prove.

Champions Church also started with a win. Shawn Devonport emailed: Firstly I would just like to start by saying how impressed I was with Rockmount today. They look a well organised outfit and have a very, very talented bunch of players with a great team spirit both on and off the pitch being very well run by their manager (Phil Turner) and we were delighted to come away with three points as these guys will be right up there come April.

The game started with Rockmount applying the pressure without really testing our keeper and they were dominating play all over the pitch. But it was us that took the lead thanks to a Mark Goule header. We were rather fortunate to be in front. Rockmount kept coming and won a penalty. Rockmount missed it after it had been retaken. They were soon level however with a goal of the season contender from their captain when he rocketed one top corner from 35 yards. We almost got back in front with Mark Goule going close twice but Rockmount were still the better team with our keeper Mark Burchell making a very impressive stop. 1-1 half time.

Second half saw us make two changes and it appeared to work when we went in front almost immediately after a lovely floated free kick from Lee Ralph found its way to myself and allowed me to lob the keeper. We were now the better team missing a few golden oppurtunities with their keeper now making some impressive stops. Rockmount were still very dangerous on the break and their very pacey striker beat our back line with sheer pace and calmly finished to make it 2-2. Both teams then missed oppurtunities but we got the winner after a scramble left me with an open goal.

Overall was a very good game with Rockmount probably feeling slightly hard done by losing a match there were more than equal to, but for us its a massive three points and we will hopefully kick on from there.

Saturday Review

Firstly a big 'Thank You' to everyone that has sent in reports. It's going to take a little while to sort through everything and I'm a bit busy today but I'll get to it as soon as I can and when the trouble and strife lets me.

Just one small plea: It would be a great help if the results were texted or emailed quickly after the match. I have quite a few extra games to cover now and I am chasing on average about four or five clubs on Saturday afternoons.

Thanks also to the many photographs of players that you have sent through. Keep them coming. We got 1088 hit yesterday on the site; amazing!

Saturday Review

Division One

Clarendon climb straight back on top of Division One with a convincing score line at home to St Mary's. That's the first time Clarendon have beaten St Mary's in the last three attempts but the signs are ominous: I think that they'll stay there for the rest of the season. St Mary's John Myatt reports: Clarendon were gifted a goal on the stroke of half time, and as we pushed for an equaliser they then hit us on the break about 3 minutes after Wiedeman had been denied by the off-side flag. We then conceded another on the break late on as Jackaman went to three at the back to try to get into the game. If we had been playing anyone else in the League, then that performance would have got us at least a point, probably three. We'll just have to beat them at home now to even it up!

Jon Jackaman adds: It seems a bit early in the season to talk about the proverbial six-pointer, but today's game had that feeling today. Clarendon will feel that they owed us after successive defeats in the cup final and KKMT and started as if they had a point to prove. It was an even first half with some entertaining football being played, Clarendon missing a few half chances and we also should have done better on a couple of occasions. John Myatt had our best effort of the half with his twenty yard shot being tipped over the bar by Conrad in the Clarendon goal. However, Clarendon had a bit of luck on the stroke of half time when a mis-hit shot squirmed through keeper Gethin's hands to give them the lead. It was harsh on "Geoff" who has been fantastic in goal for us over the last couple of years and this was his final game before heading off to university.

The second half was a more scrappy affair. The next goal was always going to be crucial. We thought we had it when Luke put the ball in the net following a half cleared corner, but the linesman's flag indicated that he was offside, a close call. We were pushing forward at this point looking for the equaliser our overall play had deserved when Clarendon caught us on the counter attack to make it two nil. I have never been one to settle for losing so I changed formation to try and get a goal back and went three at the back. We pressurised the Clarendon defence, but credit to them they did not buckle and instead ended up getting a third goal in another counter attack. Even though this is so early in the season it really does leave us with a huge job ahead of us if we want to win the League this year. Clarendon are certainly going to take some stopping. Who has the ability to do it?!

Tommy Woodward adds: The first half was a very one sided affair, with St. Mary's very rarely leaving their own half. But as has been the trend lately we failed to convert the many chances we created. That was until Dave Cooper lobbed the oncoming keeper, who was unlucky not to save the shot. St Mary's managed one effort on goal before half time but Conrad was more than capable of dealing with it. We went into the half time break knowing if the game continued in the same way, surely more goals would come as our attacking play was running St Mary's into the ground.

St Mary's started the second half well but were unable to break our defence who dealt with everything that was asked of them. St Mary's had a goal disallowed for offside. Then Everton Morrison got the goal he deserved with a low strike into the right hand corner, which left the keeper no chance. Then to top off a great performance, Everton scored a great solo goal which could already be a contender for goal of the season. It was a good team effort which has been coming all season, but we still know we can play better.

Halesowen Zion start life back in Division One again with a 6-4 win away at King's. Halesowen's mercurial Dave Walters writes: What a game! The early stages of the first half saw King's encamped in our half until we pumped a long ball up to Tom Doran who hammered his shot from 30 yards past the keeper. Still King's dominated, but then another rare attack from us saw Tom Doran brought down in the area and Richard Gould convert the penalty. King's again came at us, but we were now starting to keep some possession which resulted in another goal, John Williams striking in from short range. 3-0 up after about four attacks, we (and King's) couldn't believe it. King's struck back with almost the last kick of the first half to make it 3-1 and to give them hope at half time.

As the second half started, the same pattern emerged: King's pressure and Zion counter attack. We took a 4-1 lead with a great turn and shot from Cocky, then we pressed the self destruct button. King's came back to 4-3 with two good goals only for us to reply with a Wayne Spicer goal. King's then missed a penalty, and just to wrap it up there was a goal apiece in time added on. Three points at King's is a great result for us, but it was not good for the blood pressure.

St Matthew's spring a bit of a suprise on Amblecote, ahnding them a 4-2 defeat. The reason I say that is because Amblecote won a pre-season friendly against St Matthew's 6-1 just two or three weeks ago. Martin Nicholls takes up the tale: A great start to the season for us sees us pick up our first three points in a closely contested match. You know what you are going to be up against when you play Amblecote: Usually a 3-5-2 that stifles the midfield and pin you back for long periods. We went in with a game plan and it worked. We were organised and disciplined from the final whistle to the end and us taking our chances meant we ended up winners.

The scoring started when a slick passing move saw Ricky Roberts latching on to the ball and running un-tracked through the middle to score. Pete Davies scored the second in almost a carbon copy move. In-between goals Amblecote pressured but our defence remained resolute and we deservedly took a 2-0 lead in to half time. We also had a few opportunities to add to our tally but did not take them.

We knew after half time Amblecote would come out at us hard and our typical keep it tight first ten team talk was undone when we switched off defensively to allow Curtis Jordan to get them back in to the game. Amblecote continued to pressure but found our defence in fine form. All four had cracking games and restricted Amblecote. A St Matthew's break saw Ricky Roberts shot pushed on to the bar but the ball fell straight to Martin Nicholls to gladly restore our two goal advantage. Jadon Silva came off the bench to scramble a goal in from a corner to make it 3-2. You can always pick out moments in games where you know your luck is in. A cross from the flank saw Dean Pearce head towards his own top corner in an attempt to intercept only for our saviour in pink: Duncan Wilkinson to pull off a truely remarkable save. There was a fair bit of end to end football towards the end but it was St Matt's who ended stronger with Ricky Roberts prodding in to end the game 4-2. This is the first time the team obeyed halftime instructions - I asked them to score as many as Amblecote 2nd half.

Once again a great performance to start our league campaign. Our midfield covered every blade of grass and our defence tight and organised - I hope it lasts!

Rowley sit in fourth, taking the points against Sheldon. Pete Bennett says: I remarked to Lyndon before the match that there were no easy games and later at one-all suggested to him that this (managing) could surely not be described as 'fun' but in the end after ninety minutes of endeavour from both sides at least we were both still smiling (though his was rueful!). This was the kind of game you love to win and hate to lose and know that the distance between these two imposters is waferthin. After three cracking games last season which we edged (winning two out of three) came another which we 'edged'. Sheldon are a powerful side but also a good footballing team (and stronger I feel than last season) so with Matt Williams still absent and our new keeper at a poker tournament (ably replaced by Alun Inett, returning from retirement) we knew we were in for a game.

We started well down a slight slope at Lion Farm and their keeper quickly showed his quality as Craig Micklewright began to make his mischief in their defence. Pleasingly we were getting Southall on the ball in advanced areas and looking reasonably comfortable. Our reward, Mark Southall's flicked header from Hunter's long throw (becoming Rowley's all time scorer with 83, finally passing Dale Smith's long time record), ironically brought Sheldon back into the match. they then had a period of dominance in which Inett made one really good stop from a long shot. Our defence held strong against a very lively Sheldon attack. Michael 'Jonah' Jones was the pick at right back, while Johnny Warr continued his impressive start to the season in front of them. However we did have chances: Southall hit the bar and Hunter might have done better with a one on one.

Second half we had a number of chances to extend our lead as Sheldon's goal appeared to have a charmed life but at the same time they also looked dangerous. The second goal was vital and they got it. When ball hits hand you always hold your breath particularly in the area and Olly Staien, who was turning away when hit was perhaps a little unlucky. The penalty though was dispatched in style. From that point on it was clear (in my opinion) that there was going to be a winner and that either a mistake or piece of skill would provide it. We had a scare when Jones clearly handled in the box but thankfully the referee had no view of it and to rub salt into the wounds we went up the other end and Craig Micklewright's hard low cross was deflected in by one of their defenders. Not long left and we just held on for a very satisfying three points.

Sheldon's Lyndon Fisher adds: Another competitive game against Rowley who came at us from the start. Their long throw ins causing us a few problems and a flicked on header from one of these gave them the lead. Both sides were playing good attacking football we seemed to get stronger as the game progressed, and felt a draw at half time would have been fair.

Both sides had chances in the second half but I think we edged it, and fully deserved our equaliser: a penalty for hand ball. The turning point in this game came when one of their players also handled in the box which we felt was a clear penalty, unfortunately the ref was unsighted and yes as sometimes happens they went up the other end and a cross from them was turned into our net by one of our players which proved to be the winner.

We were gutted we felt we did not deserve to lose this match but that's football.

St Thomas' score the only goal of the game as they beat Dynamo Kingswinford. Jason Russell of Dynamo reports: Our first game of the season didn't go according to plan with a loss against a spirited and determined St Thomas'. First half we looked comfortable and it was all square after forty-five. Second half we conceed a scrappy goal and did everything however today it was to be. Credit goes to St Thomas' Aldridge; well fought and played they will do well this season. This week we will need to lift our team and work on our confidence and belief when we conceed.. The positive is that I have confiedence in our players' ability and I am sure we will bounce back next week.

Rob Hill adds: The signs were not good when our new goalkeeper and another player could not be bothered to turn up as we were then down to the basic eleven and two subs who were both carrying injuries. We were delighted to come away with all three points thanks to a Joe Lister goal. Special praise goes to Dave Plant who volunteered to play in goal and to young Richard Morley who had a fine debut performance. Chris Preece did not require an operation in the end and is recovering well from his broken collar bone. (Excellent news Chris-Ed).

Two New Phone Numbers

Martin Nicholls, Secretary of St Matthew's has changed his phone number to 07980 405357. Club Secretaries please note the change and alter your records.

Tony Skelton's new number is 07912 596580.

Division One

Some very interesting games in Division One not least of which the re-run of the Cup Final and KK Memorial Trophy, Clarendon v St Mary's. For me, these are our best two clubs and it's almost a battle for supremacy. Clarendon took the League last year and St Mary's took the Cup and KKMT. Which would you prefer? The League is perhaps the proof of consistency and overall the better side who have played everybody and come out on top. The Cup carries more prestige.

Amblecote versus St Matthew's is another tasty tie with perhaps the teams challenging in the next tier, or is it? Amblecote dispatched St Matthew's 6-1 in a soggy mid-week pre-season friendly. That game was for pride, this one's for three points.

Dynamo Kingswinford hope to build on their solid 4-0 result from their opening match but come up against a St Thomas' side eager to establish themselves back in Division One.

King's take on Halesowen Zion in an all promoted club tie, both teams come into the game off the back of solid Cup results from last Saturday.

Lastly, Rowley College face sterner opposition this week against Sheldon who now have the League to go at now they are out of the Cup.

Rowley's Pete Bennett has ventured a list of predictions and sees it like this: I think if you got all teams to suggest the rank order of the first division and then set them in pairs you'd pretty much get this week's fixtures. i.e. Clarendon (1st) v St Mary's (2nd) etc. Well, we'll see how it pans out.

Division Two

Both Solihull and Sandwell open their season after false starts due to the soakings against each other. I'm keen to see if Sandwell's defence has tightened up after the deluge of goals they conceded last season. Solihull look to prove they can do without the players who've flown the nest to Birmingham International.

New look St Boniface take on old look Wolves and Perton in their first match of the season. A win in your first game or two can give you a big psycological boost, whereas a couple of losses can leave you in the relegation zone.

West Brom Beacons will be looking to capitalise on Chawn's poor start to the season. Naturally Chawn will be in determined mood to pick up their first win. They have scored four in their first two games, it's just keeping them out at the other end that's been the trick.

In my pre-season predictions, I suggested that Selly Oak and Zion Athletic would finish first and second, so this should be a great game and one for the winners to build their season on. Both teams played in the Cup last week with mixed fortunes. I'm not sure what would be a better warm-up: knocking six past Brierley Hill or giving Clarendon a test.

Division Three

Division Three still remains a bit more mysterious than the other two. Birmingham International and DC Dynamos were both on the end of big scores last week-end, although International had a player sent off early on and I thought DC held their own for most of the first half against Rowley. They were a bit unlucky to lose their goalie to an injury after only a few minutes. Neither team looked like push-overs.

Shiloh visit good old South Road to play Brierley Hill who become the only and first club to play in all three Divisions. Don't forget that Ian's boys have a First Division title to their name.

Champions Church play their first League match at home to Rockmount, two clubs who I think will do well. Shawn Devonport says that Champions missed a hat-full last week but that was in the Cup where goal difference means nothing.

Elim Athletic host All Nations as their keeper Scott recovers. I have heard that he's been operated on but nothing since. I hope no news is good news.

And lastly MBD invite Lighthouse Lions down to Dudley Wood and hope to hold onto their top of the table berth with a win. Lighthouse will be bhoyed by a good performance against W&P last week.

It would appear that this week-end is more like the 'big kick-off'. I've been checking the weather and no rain is forecast and it was shirt-sleeves at lunch time today. So let's hope we can get cracking with a full set of matches this Saturday.

Good luck everybody and have fun.

The good news is that Scott has had his operation. It went well and he's settled. However, Adam's back in hospital with an infection and is feeling very rough. Adam contracted leukaemia a few months ago and is battling his way through.

All the best for your recovery and we hope to see you back playing for St Thomas' soon. You could consider reffing like me, it's far safer. Mind you I reffed my son's U12 game on Sunday afternoon and was asked by one of the lads why I wasn't wearing shin pads!

A couple of minor amendments from the first two Saturdays: It was Andy Aston that scored two and not Dave Abel. It was Dave who confessed, so you owe Dave one Andy! Also Theo Wiggan from Rockmount. I renamed him Theo Thomas without deed poll. My apologies to Theo and thanks to Phil Turner for advising me.

If you spot a mistake, spelling error or the like, please let me know.

Scott Kelleher

Elim Athletic's Scott Kelleher suffered a very serious internal injury in yesterday's match with King's AFC. Such was the severity of his condition that the paramedic that arrived immediately called the Air Ambulance. I understand that Scott has ruptured a kidney and will require an operation.

Saturday Review

Having just read what happened to Scott, it's put me off writing and collating the match reports a little. I'm sure you will join me in wishing Scott a speedy recovery. He must be in some pain at this moment in time and his family and friends must be quite concerned about him. Please remember him in your prayers.

League Cup Round One

Our famous League Cup kicked off today, back to the traditional style knock-out format. In my opinion, we now have a sufficient number of teams competing to do a knock out competition justice. For many teams, this was their first competitive match of the season and for St Boniface, Renewal, Sandwell and Walsall, they have yet to play. Walsall's game next week have been postponed too, so it seems that it'll be almost bonfire night before they get going. Let's hope there's no fireworks.

MBD United welcomed Dynamo Kingswinford to Dudley Wood. There was a hive of WMCFL activity at the ground as there were six teams in action. I only found out very recently that there was a third pitch secreted down below the two more obvious ones. Dudley Wood took on quite a community feel. The three-times Cup winners from Division One proved too strong for MBD. Goals from Andy Aston, Dave Abel and Paul Stack sees them through into Round Two with a 4-0 win. New secretary Jason Russell reports: Our first competitive game of the season meant that we were thrust straight into the Cup after our League game was postponed last week. We started afresh with a new formation and new tatics that took everyone by suprise. We started well and created chances, even our passing game showed though the pitch was suffering from the months of downpours that we have seen.

Our goals were taken well and as a team we defend competently. I am pleased to say that I am encouraged for the season ahead with a great team, spirt and full of potiential I look forward to our first home and league game next week. MDB United fought hard however our experience and determination made an impact.

Ed - Their opponents will be Halesowen Zion who also scored four. Secretary Dave Walters provides a report: A satisfactory start to the season for us with a comfortable win. We started the first half with some good passing moves which saw us take an early 2-0 lead with goals from Tom Doran and Cocky. It was encouraging to see the signs of them carrying on their partnership from last season. We then gave away a penalty to let Beacons back in the game, however new Halesowen signing Wayne Spicer went on a fine individual run and score to maintain our two-goal advantage at half time.

The second half saw Beacons come out and play some good football but we defended well with only a couple of half chances given to Beacons. As the half went on we took control and eventually got the fourth from a well delivered corner by Richard Gould and a flick header from Nick Bennett which was helped in by the defender.

Elim's Jon Earp provided a report from their ill-fated match with King's AFC. Elim had a great first half with chances going a begging and really we should have finished the game off in the first half. King's pulled one back before the break and the half finished 1-1. Second half was a disaster, losing our keeper and a visit of the Air Ambulance made the second half very stop start. After that we never found our rhythm and King's ran away with the game. Definitely a game of two halves and you don’t win anything for playing for 45 minutes. Best of luck to King's for the rest of the competition. Ed - Clearly Elim were knocked out of their stride by the injury to Scott. I'm sure the stoppage would have affected both teams but when it's one of yours that gets carried off your mind is not fully focussed on the game.

King's will play Amblecote in the next round who squeezed past Sheldon 3-2. Their route does not look easy: Division One teams in the first three rounds and with St Matthew's and Clarendon in this half of the draw, they will deserve their place in the final if they make it.

In the second quarter of the draw, Rockmount perhaps provided the biggest shock of the round defeating St Thomas' although needing extra time to do so. With the scores level at 2-2, an anonymous texter told me that Rockmount's superior fitness paid off getting the crucial goal in extra time.

St Thomas' Rob Hill adds: Good luck to Rockmount who are a fit, quick young side who I am sure will be in the promotion "mix" at the end of the season. I only saw the first half and ten minutes of the second half as I had to take Chris Preece to hospital who broke his collar bone following a heavy fall. Our thoughts are with Chris who is in a lot of pain and will be having an operation on Monday.

Rockmount face Clarendon in Round Two and with some of Rockmount's team having played for Clarendon, I'm sure that will spice things up a notch. Selly Oak were Clarendon's victims. Coach Jason Weston-Tate takes up the tale: Though we lost 5-1, as manager of the team I can honestly say we didn't deserve that score-line and if it wasn't for a suicidal last 20 minutes, I think that though Clarendon deserved the win we gave them a good game. At half time it was 1-0 Clarendon but we were confident of being able to come back into the game. First half there was limited clear chances for both teams and the only good chance being taken by Clarendon with a well finished goal.

Second half we started brightly just has we had started the first and matched Clarendon for at least ten minutes until Clarendon scored again to make it 2-0. Clarendon were awarded a penalty which Everton Morrison missed. This miss spurred us on and we came back into the game with a shot from outside the box from our captain (Rhyan Anderson) who dedicated the goal to his new born baby. The atmosphere was tight and I think both teams knew the next goal would be the most important goal of the game. Clarendon though were the team that got it making it 3-1 and then though we still created a couple of chances, we became sloppy in midfield and Clarendon went on to score two more to make the score 5-1.

Though our last three games have all ended in defeat to a Division One side, this performance made me more than confident that we could handle our own in Division One because technically we are as good as Clarendon. It's only physically where they was ahead of us being both stronger and faster than my still very young side. (Plus we had five first team players out). I must say though I wish Clarendon well in the Division One and the Cup as they are a good team with some exceptional players especially in defence. My man of the match was Dean Palmer who played sixty minutes with cut eye ball that caused him problems but played on with another exceptional performance in defence proving he can be a massive player for us this season.

Ed - It's a welcome back to Jason Garwood, who I believe captained the great Woodgate side that played in WMCFL back in the mid-to-late nineties, winning both League and Cup. Clarendon is beginning to look like a Woodgate Old Boys' club with Conrad and Dave Cooper also in the team. Gentlemen all three, great footballers and characters. In terms of football played, I believe that the period 1994 through to 1999 was when we saw the best quality in WMCFL. However, I also think that we are getting back to that standard now.

Champions Church progress to Round Two with a late goal against Division Two's EK Corinthia. Champions' Shawn Devonport emailed: Well it was our first ever competitive match and was a bit of a thriller when we got a bit of luck late on although after dominating the game was nothing more than we deserved.

We started well having a goal chalked off for offside and creating several chances but the EK keeper (he is a superb keeper, Dan Greatrex I believe-Ed) and some woeful finishing from myself and Mark Goule meant it stayed at 0-0. We continued to create chances and hit the bar and then the post but EK took the lead with a fantastic volley from the edge of the box from their right winger. Our heads dropped a little and the first half finished with neither team creating chances.

Second half started in the same way as the first with neither team creating but we were soon again on top with the same two culprits being at fault for not finishing but we were soon level after a scramble which we missed numerous chances resulted in a very good finish from Rion Mills. EK then had a good oppurtunity but Chris Morrison was just wide and they had a few long range efforts that flew wide. Then came the late drama: We won a free kick on the edge of the box after the EK centre back shouted a growling sound as I shot and the free kick was scored by Lee Ralph after a massive deflection. We then missed another glorious chance when Rob Moody failed to convert from six yards.

We got lucky at the end but our manager counted that we had over twenty-five shots so we thoroughly deserved it as our keeper never made one save. But good to finally be playing competitive football after the longest pre season ever!! But very happy with the result and thought the referee was fantastic. St Matt's in the next round which will be a very difficult match!!

St Matthew's, in my opinion, one our the League's top sides, proved too strong for new boys Birmingham International. A typical hat-trick from Martin Nicholls was amongst the seven that St Matt's scored yesterday. Mr Nicholls writes: A potential banana skin being drawn away in the Cup against a team we knew nothing about and following an in different pre-season. We needed an early goal to settle us down and that came from Tim Grainger - neatly rounding the keeper after being played in by James Lawrence. This was Tim's first goal for us and I'm sure there will be many more from the young lad. He was unfortunate not to get his second later in the half when he poked the ball goalwards only to see it be deflected in by Dave Broome. (Nice for Dave to get off the mark early, he was annoyed last year that his dad scored twice as many as him!!) Birmingham played some neat football and had some good efforts on goal only to be thwarted by Jimmy Hayward in goal.

The second half saw us assert ourselves and get a further five goals. Martin Nicholls added a close range volley and a header, Anthony Kelly got his first for the club, Andrew 'Woody' Spencer blasted home from close range to get his first goal for the club and Nicholls completed the scoring following up after Richard Knowles had a shot saved.

Birmingham looked a decent outfit. They had some very good players and I think they missed Richard Taylor who was not at the game. I think with time they will gel in to a good team should they remain discliplined and focussed. They are a good bunch of lads and I wish them all the best.

In the first of the matches from the bottom half of the draw, St Mary's looked in determined mood to keep their hands on the trophy that they have made their own over the last two seasons. Jon Jackaman writes: A pleasing start to our Cup defence today. Chawn started determinedly and the first fifteen minutes was a battle for supremacy in the middle of the pitch. As the half wore on we gradually took control and got the goal we deserved after Josh Blunt produced a great finish to lob the keeper. We went two goals up from an unlikely source with Tom Locke playing his last but one match before going to university opening his St Mary's account. A Chawn attacking throw in was cleared as far as me in our own half, I played the ball down the wing to Henry (unfortunately not Thierry, but Josh "Henry" Blunt) who played in Tom Locke who took the ball round the keeper and rolled the ball into the net from an acute angle. Quite what our left back was doing in that position I don't know! Shortly before half time a long throw caused confusion in the Chawn box and Luke Wiedeman nodded in from close range to score on his full debut.

After half time Matt Bignell came on as a sub and his first action was to put Henry through on goal and he made no mistake hammering the ball into the net with his wrong foot for a great finish. That was his last action as a ruthless substitution by myself meant Henry going off while I stayed on in the search for my first goal of the season. That duly came after a great cross by Luke left me with a simple header from six yards out. Chawn grabbed a goal back with a nice finish from their right winger. A few minutes later I got my second as I lobbed the keeper from the edge of the area. Tink made it seven shortly after with a composed finish, before Chawn pulled another back to make it 7-2.

This season we have a large squad and a number of lads who are off to university which is a shame as they are not only fantastic players but fantastic people to have around the club. In saying that we have brought in a couple of players who have brought some extra quality to the squad. We are playing quite well at the moment, but I do feel that there is a lot more to come from us once the team has settled down.

The Sandwell versus Walsall game fell foul of the weather as did the St Boniface, Solihull game. St Boniface and Solihull were meant to play each other last week too but as a League match. Most of us are very keen to get games on but I have to sympathise with groundsmen who call games off after long and heavy rain. The pitch I reffed on cut up quite badly in parts. If it was later in the season, when it's colder, the grass may not recover and then we have a mud bath followed by a quite dangerous and difficult rock-hard and bare playing surface in April.

Zion Athletic dispatched Brierley Hill as expected. Jon Taylor adding another hat-trick to his innumerous collection. Zion meet Wolves and Perton in the next round who I'm sure will provide sterner opposition. Wolves beat Lighthouse 5-2 but it sounds like it was no walk over. Ray Rose writes: This was our first competitive game against a hard working and well organised team. For the first 20 minutes the game was tight and well contested. A well worked goal from Wolverhampton and Perton opened the game and two other goals quickly followed, as our lads struggled to keep up. This made them three goals up at half time.

After a half time talk and a change in the playing strategy we were one player down due to a minor injury and although keeping the ball better and causing a few problems for Wolverhampton and Perton a quick second half goal was scored by Wolverhampton and Perton. This did not dampen our efforts and after our player rejoined the team we scored our first goal with a well worked move down the right when Steven Goslings linked with Adam Powell to put Marcus McLaren in on Goal at the hour mark. This further lifted our spirits and another move by Lewis Cottrill and Luke Nemmith nearly scored again. The game was now stretched and Wolverhampton and Peron scored again to make it 5-1. This still not beat our lads who battled on with a run by Adam Elcott who passed to James Clarke who scored with about ten to go. We continued to press forward almost scored again with a run by Adam Powell put Lewis Cottrill in at the post but he missed.

At the end of the match our lads had learned a lot from a highly organised team. We wish Richard and his team well in the Cup matches.

Richard Webster adds: It would appear from first glance that this was a straight-forward win but this was not the case. Lions started well taking the game to Wolves forcing a couple of corners and creating a couple of half chances. Fortunately we weathered the storm and scored two quick goals, then capitalising to finish the half four up. The second half saw the Lions bounce back again creating chances before scoring with fifteen minutes to go, then a second afetr we'd scored our fifth.

I think that with a few games under their belts to get organised, Lions will be a difficult team to beat. I wish them all the best in their first season.

DC Dynamos were beaten 6-0 by Rowley College, but like the Lions above they did not roll over. Pete Bennett writes: A decent game played in a good spirit and all I can say about DC is that they kept us playing for 90 minutes (the only respect to opponents that means anything). They also gave our returning goalkeeper (after 4 years away) Carl Whitehouse plenty to do: no ‘gimme’ clean sheet here! I’m sure they will do well in their own division because they have decent players across the side (old heads at the back and young lads further up). What they lacked, with all respect, was a capable reserve keeper (soon enough). Having lost their first choice early on they brought on a fully kitted deputy who just had a nightmare ten minutes (before he was replaced) in which time Craig Micklewright and Jamie Hunter had given us a 2-0 lead. Craig may have the bandiest legs since Malcolm MacDonald but he is a class act and always looked dangerous. (It took 37 minutes for Rowley to score-Ed).

In the second half we got better and DC kept on working. Andy Rowe deputised for the absent Matt Williams at the back with great assurance alongside the excellent Rob Hill and there were debuts for three young lads, messrs Rose, Grossett and Patel who all impressed. Warr drove everything in the middle and the goals followed. Craig squared for Hunter for 3-0, Southall’s powerful header made it 4-0 and then Hunter’s penalty completed a fine hat trick. Hunter then completed a man of the match performance by chipping a perfect ball in for the skipper Warr to finish things in style.

An unfussy and unobtrusive performance also from the referee (a certain E. Walker!)

Champions Church 3 Halesowen Zion 5

Champions' Shawn Devonport reports: We managed to find a pitch in Netherton that had survived the weather and played a 35 minute-each-way match to get a bit of extra match practice in. Well it was a funny start with Zion starting the first two or three minutes with just eight men whilst the others were changing on the side and ourselves missing four key players (has anyone ever played with a full deck?-Ed) giving the opportunity for the other lads in the squad to stake a claim.

We started brightly and took the lead after a shockingly bad corner from myself some how made its way to the six yard box for Greg Thompson to slot home with no-one challenging. Zion then started to take command and stretched our new-look back line to the limit with Tom Doran looking impressive and they took the lead with two goals in five minutes with Chris Noone slipping in behind the back line and then Tom Doran doing the same to loop a header over the keeper which Rob Moody attempted to clear but only nailed the header into the top corner! We almost got level but the Zion keeper made a very good tip round the post to keep them in front.

After the break we were soon level after a break down the right wing which was crossed in for Rob Moody to make amends and score his first ever goal from three yards out. Zion however got back in front when Chris Noone got his second after a long ball was not dealt with. We again levelled matters when a long ball found its way through to me and I beat the keeper at his near post to draw level again. Then came our big chance we had several shots blocked in a scramble and Dave Luxton rattled the ball against the bar which to some looked to have crossed the line but was not given and within a few minutes bad defending allowed Steve Cockroft to lob it over the advancing keeper and although Josh Burchell tried to clear he couldn't and ended up helping it into the net. Then in the dying minutes another piece of bad defending allowed Zion to make it five.

All in all it was good to get a game and give another Division one side a testing but we're looking forward to Saturday (weather permitting on those Dudley Wood pitches) were all our lads will be there and look forward to stepping up to a Division Two side in EK.

Saturday Review

Well what a day! Firstly, apologies to the lateness of the update. I was at my sister's wedding receiving text after text to say the games were off, followed by the odd result. I drove the bride to the church and the rain was as heavy as it can be; the roads were awash. It was a miracle that we saw any football at all.

Division One

St Mary's 2 Amblecote 1

St Mary's go top of Division One with a slim victory that leaves Amblecote licking their wounds. Amblecote's new secretary Liam Walton reports: I only caught the second half, but a saw a quality goal from Jon Doman: A mazy run and a good finish. St Mary's responded well and got two penalties both from handballs in the last ten minutes, the last one with three minutes to go with the Amblecote player seeing red as it was on the line. Both penalties were well taken. Amblecote a little disappointed not to get a draw. Played in a good spirit.

Jon Jackaman adds: A stuttering start to the season for us today, but a win's a win! The pitch held up surprisingly well given the downpours we've had and easily passed a pitch inspection. However, the rain had meant that the grass couldn't be cut and in some parts the it was noticeably long where the ball held up and in other parts it was skidding off the greasy surface. In spite of this it was an entertaining game.

The first half yielded a few half chances, but nothing really to note. Into the second half and Amblecote took the lead with a nicely taken goal. Alterations were made to the St Mary's line up and a change in formation followed. Josh "Henry" Blunt was having a fine game up front, working tirelessly and created a few chances for himself but failed to notch the goal his play deserved. A bit more composure in front of goal will see him scoring plenty this season. Just as it was looking like it wasn't going to be our day, a moment of complete madness from the Amblecote centre back saw him inexplicably punch the ball as it went over his head. Jon Bignell converted the resultant penalty. At this stage we continued to pile on the pressure and five minutes before the end got another penalty with Nick Sprason's goalbound shot being saved on the line, unfortunately for Amblecote, not by their keeper. Jon Bignell coolly converted the penalty to win the game for us. All in all it was a decentish display but we will have to step up our performance levels if we want to achieve anything this season.

Amblecote's Simon Ashby chips in: Yesterday was one of the reasons I reflect back and wish I had taken up gymnastics or croquet at school, football can be very frustrating. 1-0 up and playing well with ten minutes left only to concede two penalties and go away with nothing! I must say firstly, this is a really good Amblecote squad and I hope we can push St Mary's and Clarendon all the way this year. After defeating St Matt's 6-1 away last week and equalling the in-form St Mary's away from home I am confident we will be up there.

We played very well yesterday and for eighty minutes we looked the equals and for large parts the sharper side against of one of the better teams in the league. Having taken a second half lead through 'Dozza' Doman's excellent run and finish, we looked like we were going to take all three points, only for two deliberate handballs in the last eight minutes to rob us of victory! One of those games where you wonder how you haven't won. But sometimes even in defeat you are encouraged and I think our form is good and hopefully we will be up there challenging.

Division Two

Chawn Hill Church 2 EK Corinthia 4

EK's Chris Morrison tells the tale of their opening day win that sees them lead Division Two: How is it that South Road never gets cancelled? AMAZING!!!! A good game today played with two teams trying to get a good start to the season. EK took an early lead within five minutes with a neat passing moved followed by a tidy finish from Sean Steward. EK were clearly on top but should have had their keeper send off with a foul outside the box (not even a booking). Then Chawn began to attack - EK seemed to sit back and invite pressure onto themselves but managed to ride the pressure and get a second goal from Paul Russell who we are all glad he has opened his account for EK! EK then went three up with a cross-shot from Sean Coughlan and all looked good going in at half time three up but as we all know in this league it can be harder to come out and finish the game off.

Chawn quickly got two goals back and EK looked as if they were going to crumble but through hard work they managed to get the fourthl to kill off Chawn - again from Paul which was a great header! A great start to the season by EK - a lot to build on and with four key players coming back in, the subs bench may just be as strong as it has ever been! (who knows?).

Division Three

Shiloh United 2 MBD United 4

MBD United lead Division Three by a nose after the first lap. MBD's Neil Howard reports: MBD took on Shiloh away from home for their first game of the season. The rain stopped in time for kick off and MBD started strong straight from the whistle. Within the first ten minutes MBD had forced several corners and a few free kicks. It was from one of those corners that MBD took the lead. Nick and Matt T combined well with a short corner followed by a quick one-two for Nick to then cross the ball in and Karl to head home. After that however the game turned and for the next twenty-five minutes all the attacking seemed to be coming from Shiloh and MBD seemed to have lost concentration. Shiloh pulled a goal back and just as it looked as if the first half wouldfinish one a piece they won a penalty. The MBD keeper held his nerve however and turned the shot away. HT 1-1

The first few minutes of the second half seemed to carry on the way the first had with Shiloh creating more than MBD and they were soon rewarded with a second goal. At this MBD's manager changed the formation and made a couple of substitutions. This seemed to do the trick and for the remaining thirty-five minutes or so of the game MBD dominated. MBD's second came when Nick and Karl combined in the Shiloh area with Nick eventually putting a shot away.Their third was a wonderful shot from around thirty yards out, Robert Lee burying it in the top corner. MBD's fourth and Robert Lee's second of the game came with some good build up play from Karl and Nick and ending in Robert finishing from the edge of the Shiloh area. Nick, Chris, Karl and Matt Jall had chances in the second half and Robert was only denied his hat-trickby a finger tip save by Shiloh's keeper, turning the ball fractionally wide.

Shiloh still looked a little dangerous on the counter attack but MBD's defence were more than up to the task and they came away comfortable, if some what wet, winners. FT 2-4 all credit to Shiloh they battled to the end and were good hosts on a miserable day.

Rockmount United 3 Birmingham International 4

International sit in second spot on account of the fact that they conceded one more goal that MBD did yesterday. Richard Taylor reports: Considering the rain, the pitch was in good condition! Rockmount found the back of the net with an early opener only for us to respond with an equaliser. In the first half we had plenty of chances in front of goal but could not convert. Rockmount showed their attacking ability but also failed to find the back of the net. Half time saw both teams with bags of chances but ended it ended one-one.

In the second half we made some changes and played a real attacking game bringing on Davoud Takallo which resulted in us going ahead 3-1 with two goals from Iranian Darius Kazemi from midfield. Rockmount fought hard and pulled one back to make it 3-2 and it give them a real lift in confidence. They managed to pin us back but our defence held up well releasing our front men into open space. Nathan Atkinson found the back of the new twice to conclude what we felt was a fair result. A good start after a rocky pre-season, St Matthew's next week in the Cup, who knows?

Saturday Review

Kevin Kovacs Memorial Trophy

Clarendon 1 St Mary's 1 - St Mary's won 5-3 on penalties

Our first competitive match of the season saw the Kevin Kovacs Memorial Trophy contested for for the third time. It brought Clarendon and St Mary's together again, a repeat of the Cup Final and like the Cup Final, the match was all square at 1-1 after 90 minutes.

I was unable to attend the game due to wedding commitments (not me, mine was 15 years ago) and will be similarly detained next week too. I have only sketchy reports of the game but what I'm told is that Clarendon battered St Mary's, squandering chance after chance and had most of the possession.

St Mary's Nick Sprason reports: We played poorly in the first half against the wind, creating little and allowing Clarendon to dominate proceedings without having many clear chances ourselves. Although there was a scare when our new signing Shaun Green kept out a goal bound shot. As the half went on we got stronger and relaxed with Jon Wynn coming in to he game much more. 0-0 HT.

We started the second half slowly and some slack defending (mainly by myself) allowed Dave Cooper (I think) to score at the second attempt. Clarendon were on top at this point and only a trio of substitutions could drag us back into the game. On came Andrew Tink Beeson (baby faced assasin), Jon Bignell and Matt Bignell. Within minutes of the change Jon Bignell had put Tink through on goal and with almost his first touch we had equalised. Following the equaliser, the game opened up and there were good chances at both ends (including one incredible miss from Clarendon). The game finished 1-1 and went straight to penalties. Suffice to say we won thanks to a fine save from Geoff and it was left to unsung hero Dave Bignell who scored the winner. Clarendon will feel hard done by to have lost as they created more and had more possession but we worked hard and never gave up.

Friendly games

Another raft of friendly games as you'd expect at this stage of the season. Some very interesting results not least of which the City Church, Selly Oak game that ended 5-0 to City. Perhaps my first faux pas in my predictions is saying Selly Oak will cruise Division Two? Talk about commentators kiss of death...

Elim Athletic 6 St Boniface 3

Elim sign off their pre-season preparations in perfect style with a confidence building match just before they kick off against DC next week. Elim's Jon Earp reports: Well the last pre-season friendly before the season starts and we picked up another win. Elim were quickly out of the blocks and within three minutes of the start of the game Chris Smith latched onto a flick and hit a 20 yard half volley into the top corner. Chris then scored his second of the game after Michael French quickly took a free kick which found Chris at the back post. St Boniface then rattled our cross bar off a nice shot from long range. We soon had our third when Chris Smith flicked the ball on for Michael French to lob the on-rushing keeper. We then took our foot off the gas and paid the price as Boniface pulled one back. We then hit our fourth when Sean McKenna broke free to score. We then conceded pretty much straight away with some sloppy play and switching off again, these are lessons that we will learn from, the half finished 4-2 to Elim Athletic FC.

The second half started with a spell of pressure from Boniface which produced some good chances for the visitors. We then started to knock the ball about and off a corner Dean O’Leary got above everyone to score a good header. We then had a string of chances only to be thwarted by the Boniface keeper who pulled off three point-blank saves. St Boniface then scored from a long ball, we soon finished the game off when Mark Greenwell played in Sam Lynch to Score the sixth and final goal of the game. Well done to our new keeper Scott Kelleher after good performance and some good saves. Credit to both teams who played the game in a competitive manner without any problems, well done. With the pre-season games out the way with, Elim Athletic FC are confident of a good season.

James Gray adds: We never really got into top gear. Sloppy goals conceded. I'm glad we got it out of our system. Elim look like a decent team and should do well this season.

St Thomas' Aldridge 1 Wolverhampton and Perton Churches 2

Wolves come out on top in this game with goals from Jason Parmar and Luke French in response to Dan Jones' goal for St Thomas'

City Church 5 Selly Oak Methodist 0

After predicting City would struggle in Division Oneand Selly Oak would come top of Division Two, City proceed to crush Selly Oak with a 5-0 score line. City's Martin Ogbourn says: A good run out for both teams. The win was assured after excellent finishing by City. It included a brace from Torq Smith, his first goals in four years and an exquisite, curling, top-corner finish from Will Wright. Daniel Atkins took his well to complete the 5-0 result. City played well in parts, going forward and managed to defend effectively to keep a clean sheet. Selly Oak were strong and looked good on the ball in some areas of the field but lacked a cutting edge up front. Best wishes to Selly Oak for the coming season.

Selly Oak's Rob O'Neill adds: We’ve had a bit of a mixed pre-season but haven’t always had our full squad available. I myself have been away for a month (Not that my space on the bench affects results too much haha). Today was close to a full strength eleven, however a few 'morning after the night before' faces turned up against a very organised looking City Church. Even with the departure of the McKennas, which always gave this fixture a greater edge of rivalry, it’s still a game that our team are well up for as along with Boniface and now Elim, Derbies are always important.

We started pretty much on the back foot and City pressed well with some players I’ve not seen play for them before but recognise from the area. In the first half a few lapses in concentration from last season's reliable Josh Wright saw City take a quick 3-0 advantage, the pick being the third. We gave the goal scorer too much time on the edge of the box and he was able to pick his spot and curl it into the far corner. City worked the wide areas well creating space in the centre of the park however our teams Man of the Match Darryl Brandy and new father Rhyan Anderson (Congratulations Rhyan) were as solid as ever and prevented an even more embarrassing scoreline at half time.

A Stern talking to at half time from Jason and threats of substitutions sparked a bit of life into us and we began to compete in the second half with Michael Knowles and Nathaniel Regisford both working hard but we just couldn’t seem to click in the final third of the pitch. All credit to City despite being 3-0 up continued to work hard for the clean sheet and this was rewarded with a fourth goal about mid way through the half. At this point the friendly element came into play and a few more subs were made and even our right back went in goal to give Josh a run out and City put the icing on a fine performance with a fifth.

I don’t for one minute think this is a sign for a bad season for us, I’m writing this on transfer deadline day (In the Football League) so its only right that a few rumors fly round WMCFL. A hopeful return of Samuel Antwi from injury and a probable new signing in the woodworks, we will have a stronger squad than last year to utilise, although we are unsure if we have retained the service of last year's Player of the Season Jamie Williams. We are still a young squad all under 25 so although our target is not necessarily Champions, although we were flattered by the prediction we are still aiming for promotion. I now genuinely have the feeling if the majority of players stay with us over the years we’ll rack up a few trophies along the way. Finally I’d just like to wish Elim all the best next season. A fair few Selly Oak oldies in there and would be nice to see them do well.

Shiloh United 0 DC Dynamos 3

DC's Mark Crouch reports: A hastily arranged friendly saw DC put out a near full strenth first eleven for the first time so far.

Shiloh attacked for the first five minutes as DC struggled to compose themselves. It resulted in a handball inside the area and the referee rightly awarded Shiloh a penalty. Composure was clearly lacking on both sides as Shiloh missed and DC breathed sigh of relief. Shiloh threatened down the wings but the DC back four were equal to everything that was thrown at them. DC's confidence started to grow and they started to pass the ball around. They were unlucky not to score from one of six consecutive corners one of which Jon Murphy nearly scored direct from the corner. A very entertaining end to end first half ended 0-0 as DC were unable to make their pressure count.

Second half and DC carried on from where they left off, pressurising Shiloh in their own half. Ten minutes in and some neat interchanging passing from Ben Russell and Temo Lall resulted in Temo being brought down just outside and to the right of Shiloh's area. Jon Murphy stepped up and hit a sweet curling left footed free kick into the top left hand corner of Shiloh's goal
0-1 DC Dynamos.

Shiloh picked themselves up and using their wings hit DC with everything they had but again DC'S back four was commanding Steve Burford the pick of the bunch. Commanding as ever in the air. Is there a better header of the ball in the league?? (I'd say Willis Mullin from King's but he doesn't play very much these days or any days over the last ten years - Also I'd have to say Matt Williams from Rowley looked almost unchallenable. Rowley play DC in the Cup-Ed).

Ten minutes later and another goal to DC. This time Jon Murphy threw in to Temo Lall who played it back to Jon, who put a slide rule pass through Shiloh's defence that Ben Russell ran onto. He rounded the keeper and stroked the ball home for a glorious goal Nothing more than DC deserved.

Again Shiloh were undeterred and all credit to them they never let their heads go down. One direct attack straight down the middle nearly resulted in a goal as they struck the foot of the post.

Ten minutes later DC were 0-3 up. DC's confidence was high and they were playing the kind of football they played in training. Quick passing football using the wings and creating space. Again so great quick passing from the midfield resulted in Temo Lall coming in from his right position and slamming the ball into the bottom left corner.

A wonderful 3-0 win from DC coming at just the right time, the weekend before the season starts. A great team performance but players of note Steve Burford commanding at centre back. Matty Gordon first match for DC and a solid display at left back but outstanding player of the match to Jon Mrphy who was at the heart of everything good from DC.

Good luck to Shiloh for the forthcoming season and thanks for a really great game played in a wonderful spirit.

Sandwell United 2 Sheldon 5

A reasonable result for Sandwell considering the distance in the League between these clubs. Luke Hazlehurst scored again for Sandwell and I think he will feature heavily if he plays all year. Lyndon Fisher reports: Another useful run out today against a spirited Sandwell side who gave us a decent game. But we were the stronger side and came out winners 5-2.

Rowley College 1 Amblecote 1

Pete Bennett reports: A decent game today back on the grass at Lion Farm: "A good game of football today was a fitting way to remember Kevin Kovacs to whom we all owe the continued existence and further prospering of our league. Kev was a lad who liked to win but win, lose or draw he was especially committed to the idea of taking part. That commitment remains a standard for us all.

Against our bogey team, Amblecote today and they had eleven and we had sixteen (for a change) and a draw was about right. Neil Taylor refereed with good humour and allowed me to 'carousel' my subs which kept me occupied for pretty much the whole game so I didn't see much (especially when I ran the line at the end! Sorry!) Both teams wanted to play football though few clear cut chances were created. Amblecote scored a deserved penalty in the first half (good to see Tim Fellows continuing to grace the league with his touch of class). Our goal was either inspired or a fluke: full back Danny Wheeler looped a shot over their keeper (who had been very competent). Our stand-in keeper, Craig Micklewright was worth the admission alone for his antics, taking players on and going for a little run."

Renewal Solihull 4 Birmingham International 1

International's Richard Taylor writes: Both teams had players out but it was competitive from the off. Renewal were very strong on the counter attack and breaking from midfield. We gave a good account of ourselves with their keeper making some good saves. Half time the score line flattered Renewal to be honest, it didn't help with me being in goal. The result was no reflection on the quality of football, we just could not find the back of the net. In fairness to Renewal they have a great striking force combo with Jon Follows and Joe Clark along with Nathan Bignall attacking from midfield if they can continue with a consistent team they have a good chance of top half of the table.

Lighthouse Lions 2 St Matthew's 6

St Matthew's Martin Nicholls says: I'm sure its the same for every club pre season, struggling for numbers with important players missing every week. We had twelve today with some players making their first appearance the week before the season but we managed to secure a good win away to Lighthouse.

Early on we zipped the ball around and created a few good chances and a rare Richard Knowles header gave us a lead before Lighthouse we awarded a penalty and equalised. However, three more goals before half time meant we took a good lead in to the break. James Lawrence pinged one from outside the box before Ricky Roberts added a brace.

The second half saw us add two more goals. Martin Nicholls headed in a corner before David Broome in his first game this pre-season let fly from outside the box to grab a sixth late on. This was after Lighthouse broke to score their second.

Lighthouse look a decent set up and were very welcoming. They are a toung team but seem well equipped to hold their own. I hope they keep disciplined as the first season is often the longest - I'd like to wish them all the best for this year.

Walsall Olympic 3 Rockmount United 3

This was a fun game. I would happily play Rockmount every week; nice lads, good energy and fitness about them. We exchanged some good goals, all from open play. 2-1 at half time with goals from Paul Gibbons followed by Pete Falconer who hit the bar and post in two second half attacks before getting his second. Rockmount responded with a pair of late goals, taking on two long range strikes, the first from some way out and the second from an awkward angle to square off the match.

Having played Champions Church already this pre-season, I imagine that the new third division might be of reasonable standard with Rockmount not too far behind.