Saturday Review

Quite a day yesterday; some season-defining results. Finally, we seem to be heading out of the frosty weather. The wet is still a problem with several Lion Farm and Saltley Leisure games falling foul but the temperatures are higher and promise to be throughout this week.

Division One

St Mary's 2 Clarendon 1

St Mary's took one giant step closer to retaining the title with a slim 2-1 win against their closest rivals, Clarendon. With the gap expanding to three points, a game in hand and a massively superior goal difference, you would think that it's all over. But there's plenty of water to flow under the bridge and St Mary's have some tricky ties to complete. So in short: St Mary's are firm favourites but it's not over.

John Myatt says: A great battling performance from St Mary's today as we took a huge stride towards securing back to back titles, we just need to keep winning! We didn't play much football on our heavy, sticky pitch and I think Clarendon may feel hard done to, however they only really had one or two chances other than the penalty (where their centre mid seemed to slip over rather than be caught...) with Phil only making one save all game, and we had as many chances even if they had more of the ball.

What won us this game was our ability to score from any situation, which I think marks us out from other teams as we do not rely on one player to score most of our goals, but spread them around the team!

Missing a centreback (Dave) and centre mid (Wynny) we went into the game understrength, but a reshuffle meant we still had a strong team. It took us a while to get going, but our first goal came from a long throw which bounced across the area all the way for Luke to sidefoot in off the back post, we then got another 10-15mins later with a fantastic leap and header from Tink from a Sprason corner. It could have been three just before half time when Tink got past three players on the right and drilled the ball across the goal line, Coleman picked it up past the back post and layed it back for Flenly who sidefooted over.

The second half had Clarendon kicking downhill and putting us under some pressure, with us looking to hit them on the break. They managed to get one back with the aformentioned penalty, however bar myself blocking one off the line and a good save from Phil we restricted them to pot shots from distance.

Overall, a good win that shows that we mean business in the league after our unlucky exit from the cup on penalties.

Louis Williams texted: I'm not sure how we managed to lose this with so much of the game in our hands. It was a real smash-and-grab from St Mary's.

Nick Sprason adds: It was a great game today which we won 2-1 with goals from Wiedeman and Beeson. Clarendon may feel like they were worth a point and piled on the pressure for the last twenty but we held strong, we committed and in my opinion were worth the win.

Halesowen 2 King's AFC 5

Dave Walters says: A disappointing result for us today, but we knew we were up against it when we went down to ten men after four minutes. We played some good stuff in the first half and went in 2-0 up at the break and arguably should have scored more. The second half saw King's really attack us and the combination of their pace, a heavy energy sapping pitch and our numerical disadvantage they gradually wore us down to score three goals in about seven minutes. There then came another two dismissals (it really was not that kind of game) which brought it to ten versus nine in King's favour and they went on to score two late goals to run out convincing winners.

Amblecote 1 Zion Athletic 3

James Hamilton says: Today has to go down as one of our most satisfying victories against a strong Amblecote team. It was a pretty even contest throughout. It came down to who could take their chances and (unusually for us this season) we did just that. Every player on the pitch gave 100% which made for an exciting game.

Amblecote took an early lead through a break down the right hand side and a well taken finish from their right winger. Within a minute we were back on level terms through a typical Jon Taylor strike. The rest of the first half saw Amblecote dominate but they just couldn't break down our solid defence.

In the second half we sorted out a few problems in midfield and took the lead through another Leon Naylor goal, getting in between defender and advancing goalkeeper to slot the ball home. Amblecote rarely threaghtened after that and despite us playing the final 20 minutes with two injured players we killed the game off with another superb strike from Leon Naylor. We are finally beginning to find a bit of form and will be looking to extend our winning run to three at home to City next week.

Simon Ashby adds: Rather a forgetable match for us. The defence were over the place, the midfield didn't gel and we created hardly any chances... Only one outcome: Defeat

The game started well enough and we took the lead with a great finish from Curtis but that was as good as it got. After the break I actually think Ed could have got into our team! (He was back in training this week). And Zion scored twice to win. There is a real danger that now we can't win league and probably will stay well clear of bottom that we just drift towards end of season. But let's hope we sort ourselves out quickly.

St Thomas 2 St Boniface 4

St Thomas took a step closer to Division Two with a defeat to St Boniface yesterday. After losing to Sheldon earlier in the month, I cannot see how St T's will escape but you never know. St Boniface move away from the bottom two and with Zion Athletic also winning, St Matthew's are dragged into the mire. I think St Matt's are down there on account of their ever-growing fixture arrears, rather than poor form but they will now have to win to get out of it.

Division Two

MBD United 0 Champions Church 1

Shawn Devonport reports: It's results like today that we will look back on come May and say this was key if we are to go on and win the league.

The match got moved from Dudley Wood due to the weather and we were again missing key men in Josh Ball and Dave Oakley with MBD turning up with a full team bar Ryan Reynolds.

We started well with myself firing wide and Dave making a good save but he couldn't do much when we took the lead: I cut back for Rion who fired into the top corner from outside the area with a fantastic finish. MBD then saw plenty of the ball and were utilising the extra man in midfield creating plenty of pressure but we defended brilliantly and apart from going close with a Temo header from a set piece Dan didn't have much to do. We were looking dangerous on the break and Dave saved well twice more before the break. At half time we were slightly fortunate to go in ahead but we defended brilliantly.

Second half and we bossed the first 25 minutes creating numerous opportunities; Tim Bamber missing a good chance, myself firing wide and Dave making two fantastic stops, one in particular from Rion firing top corner. As the half wore on as you expect when only 1-0 up MBD started to have more of the ball and a lively striker came on and caused us a few problems. Karl Martin went close with an header and MBD thought the referee should have given a penalty but it wasn't given. We had two great chances on the break but again I wasted both firing wide.

A real good win for us today, MBD on football terms were the best team we have played this season, they knocked it about really well but just struggled for that final ball. Simon Larmour was brilliant again and TJ and Jordan were again impressive as well as Dave in goal who always seems to bring his best out for us!!!

A real good game of football, competitive but fair, a big win for us and its still in our hands with the points on the board and the games being chalked off week by the week. It was our fourth clean sheet of the season which is the most in Division Two and I just want to say a big well done to Greg Timmington who put in a awesome performance at centre back after a really tough week and to man of the match Jim Wilkes who is now starting to look the real deal at centre back. Lee was brilliant at left back and Rob his usual busy self at right back, Gouley ran his heart out up front and was also a real handful for the MBD defence. Its EK next week which will be another tough battle and just had the news come through tonight Dan Greatrex is in plaster for six weeks with a chipped fibia which looks like ruling him out for the season. Lee has managed to drop a computer on his foot and may have broken a toe and Dave is out for the season with an achilles problem so were down to the bare bones but up for the fight!!

Renewal Solihull 2 EK Corinthia 0

Renewal Solihull, in typical fashion, are putting on a late surge. One-time relegation fodder have now almost escaped the drop and are beating the top teams in the Division. I'd say they are a win away from safety and have four matches left.

I'm not sure where it's all going wrong for EK. After looking like they could win the title, it's all slipping away. It's a great shame as they were a superb side earlier in the season. However, they are still in second place and provided they start winning again there's only Selly Oak that threaten them for second. It's in their hands.Renewal Solihull 2 EK Corinthia 0

Dynamo Kingswinford roll back the years and secure a much needed win against also relegation threatened Chawn Hill. It's all getting very tight at the bottom of the division.

Jason Russell writes: Today (Saturday) I am writing a match report like no other. The reason being is that this season this has been a rarity as I only comment on games that we win and discuss our losses with the team behind closed doors and lets face it, the door has been slammed shut for most of this season.

We faced one of our local rivals Chawn Hill Church today and have faced many a battle with Neil’s team at South Road over the years and I knew in preparing for this game that today would be no exception. Pre-game we had a number of players unavailable, Chris Platts based on the latest medical report will be out for a number of weeks due to having eight stitches in his leg. He has been one of our stars this season and has taken over from the goalkeeping legend Matt Pearson. Ian Hopson has been missing in action since time began and Chris Sweetmore was unavailable also, due to working down the pit up north. Kev Hodgetts was declared unavailable also due to work commitments. (I’m unsure what Kev does, maybe a similar role to Chandler out of Friends). Finally, Gary Lamsdale was unavailable due to injury.

One of our positives this season has been the depth of our squad and today our squad has been fully utilised as we had fourteen players available despite the above tales of woe. We started slowly, I think we where a bit overwhelmed by the physical style and determination of Chawn Hill. It came as no surprise that we found ourselves a goal behind within the first five minutes from a breakdown in midfield, a Chawn midfielder latched onto the ball and pass to the striker who slotted home via the post past the legend known as Matt Pearson. (Brought out of retirement to allay our goalkeeper injury concerns).

Now this season we found ourselves in this position a number of times before but today felt different and the team, although shocked showed some positive body language and reminded me of the Dynamo of old. I heard player’s voices reassuring each other, that we must carry one. I witnessed a fire and belief that today wasn’t going to be an example of how football should be played but today it was about being gritty and carving out a result. The first half was scrappy but we still in the game. Just as I was preparing my half time sermon at the mount of South Road, we gained a goal through pressure that forced a Chawn defender to lash the ball into the back of his net. With our position, we will take anything from anyone. This changed the game; we came off the pitch believing we could push on. I asked the guys to show more application, they know what I mean and then the second half commenced.

Now the second half was something different, we played with a passion and a commitment that yes we have had all season but this was different. Midfield who struggled in the first half were leading us by winning the tackles and laying the ball off and encouraging every player to step up to another level. It came as no surprise that after some time we managed to get a corner. James Symons has been one of new additions this season and he has great potential. He delivered a quality cross to the far post where Scott Bradley rose like a salmon to head across the goal to the waiting Andy Waddams who headed in. This put us in the driving seat. The rest of the game ebbed away and I decided to rest the maturing like a vintage wine Neil Hambly replacing with the John “Whippet” Fairclough. A further substitution was made just to protect the slender lead. James “I was born ready, Jase” Pinches replaced the John “The Future” Martin. The game ended and the three points that tripled our total points tally for the season were in the bag.

We have had a tough season, but this squad have character and I am proud of them today. We have unearthed some real, young talent in Ross Hodgkins, Scott Bradley and John Martin who are DK’s future. They just get better every week and it’s a privilege to watch them grow every week into the players that their potential will allow them to be. We welcomed back Andy Aston today after injury and the experience he brings was one of the differences in today’s game. With Andy Waddams, we have a power house in midfield but with finesse, that's starting to birth. It was great to see the three times League Cup winner Matt Pearson in between the sticks again, all be it for one game while Chris Platts recovers and eats chocolate brownies. Dave Trask & Rob Waddams reminded me of Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister today, they have started as a new defensive partnership but in the second half they were immense. Dave Abel is one of our most capped players and he is just Dennis Irwin. Nothing fazes him and he is DK and what we stand for.

Every game is a cup final for us and there’s a massive game next week away to Bournbrook Athletic who I have great respect for. They are a good side and this is a difficult game for us. We are just focussed on our game and not what’s going on around us. We have a lot to learn as players and as a manager, I will never stop learning. Today is about what the players did, they did it there way and in their style and they deserve it.

Division Three

DC Dynamos 4 Common Ground United 2

Mark Crouch writes on DC's return to the top of the division as his side close in on the title and a potential historic double: A game that nearly wasn't ended up as a comfortable win. For some reason our pitch wasn't booked for this morning and fortune favoured us as no one else had booked it. The pitch had held up well in the wet conditions and had left a lovely playing surface.

DC were forced into a pre-match switch around as Andy Garvey injured himself warming up and Chris Gee DC's second top scorer was put between the sticks. We had quality on the bench and were able to put out a fiercly competative starting eleven. This was evident straight from the start as DC played the ball around beautifully starting off where we left off the week before last. For the first twenty minutes DC were all over Common Ground and Onk started it off with a lovely strike to make it 1-0. Ten minutes later and it was 2-0 as again Onk found the net this time scoring the goal of the game as DC used four lovely passes to split the Common Ground defence. Bluey, Clint, James and a pin point accurate cross for Onk to ram home. DC then went to sleep for twenty minutes and from a corner that should never have been, David Walker fired in a bullet header giving our make-shift keeper no chance. Soon it was 2-2 as again DC were guilty of not clearing from defence and a keeping blooper let Common Ground in for the equaliser. From the resulting kick off some more good work down the right wing by Bluey and Clint left DC with a corner which Clint delivered to perfection and Steve B thundered in and left the net rocking with a bullet header 3-2 half tme. This scoreline could easily have been more as DC missed three glorious opportunities and had two goals ruled offside.

The second half was a tight affair with Common Ground battling harder and at times playing some attractive football. David Walker missed a couple of chances he will have nightmares about but from today's performance he has an abundance of goals in him and clearly should be playing at a higher level. DC wrapped the game up as they were awarded a penalty and Adam Bradshaw (Man of the Match) scored his second hat-trick on the bounce to seal a comfortable win for DC. Clint was outstanding today as was Bluey but another fine team performance and another clinical display of finishing from Onk.

Back to the top with a game in hand. Thank you Living Hope and congratulations on your first win of the season.

Living Hope Church 3 Junction Ten Village 2

Pete Hopper writes: (And I think we'll allow him a little latitude on the length and content of his report as his team secured their first ever win in WMCFL). So, it's a strange but sweet feeling to be reporting on a match with a very different outcome than usual. So if I may, please allow me a little outburst: CCCCCCOOOOOOOOOMMMMEEEEE OOOONNNNN!!!!!

Today was a day that LHCFC will remember for a long time, that future squads will celebrate, and will fast become legendary. From time to time children will gaze into the eyes of their grandparents and ask 'Gramps, tell me about the time you won your first match for LHCFC.' Perhaps not. But it is a great feeling and comes as a reward for hard work that the whole team has put in for the last year.

We were well prepared for this match, helped along by an extended warm up as we waited for the visitors to find the ground. It was also the first time in ages that we had a full squad to choose from. Perhaps, even before the whistle blew for kick off - one or two of us were thinking that we'd get something. The match itself was great to watch and played with great quality and passion. So to go through every chance and event would take up more space than is allowed - so I'll try to slimline it (a bit).

After only minutes we found ourselves a goal down (how many times have I said that before??!) after we failed to compete on a throw, failed to mop up a loose ball, leaving JNC10's top scorer to move into position and slot home. We responded straight away with Dean 'Aye-Aye-Captain-put-a-shift-in-son' Russell placed a ball through to Nathan 'Runny-Boy-Run-Run' Brain who forced a good save from the keeper. Soon after another great move saw Dean hit the bar. These two, plus Pete 'Speedy-boy-speedy-speed-speed' Kirkby worked well together to set up some great chances throughout the match. At 18 minutes, a nasty looking injury to Jnc10's No.9 in a hard 50/50 with Calin 'hey-hey-hey-referee-it's-too-easy-simples' Rezmuves that reminded me of school Physics lessons (where the teacher would make two hard object smash into each other to see what happened) meant that Jnc10 were forced to make a change. This introduced a good spell of exciting football for both teams with Jnc10 coming very close to a second goal on 25 minutes with a cross whisping past the face of goal and then a shot from 18 yards going very close to finding the 'wrong' side of the bar. Credit goes to returning keeper James 'this is MY house' Farley who during this spell, and throughout the match, bossed his area well, hastled JNc10's front line and showed no fear in claiming what was rightfully his.

The team were rewarded for some great play by a solo run from Nathan 'ain't-catchin-me-look-at-me-burn' Brain who picked the ball up from behind enemy lines, dodged a dangerous looking high tackle, flew down the wing, avoided a fire breathing dragon, jumped over a pit of lava rescued the princess and lived happily ever after! Oh, and he slotted the ball past the keeper after running around two more defenders and cutting back inside to pick his spot. One of his best I think. 1-1.

We had two further chances before the whistle, shored up by a strong midfield performance form Chris 'I-don't-just-like-you-guys-I-LOVE-YOU' Webb. Half-time saw players walk to the touchline with heads held high.

The second half was going to be about fitness - could we keep up with a good, experienced team when the burn started to set in? Well, I counted four more missed chances for LHC before Jnc10 had a goal disallowed on 59 mins by the linesman for offside - I couldn't call it either way. We were straight back on it, with some strong wing play by Lee 'I'll-still-look-this-young-when-I'm-60' Smith and another chance narrowly missed while JNC10's keeper was left stranded at the edge of his box and Pete 'fast-as-lightning' Kirkby's cross was headed away by the last man.

Deano 'Delap-has-nothing-on-me' Russell chucked one into the box soon after and straight away found the ball coming back at him from the clearance, and calling upon the power of ninja took it on the volley with a beautiful roundhouse that fired the ball into the net! 2-1. What was most surprising was watching him look so confused as to what to do when you score!

We were reminded who we where playing against when some good pressure and then a blistering move which took us apart resulted in an equaliser for Jnc10. It is at this point in so many games that our heads have dropped and we've opened the flood gates for a drubbing! But not today. The whole team responded beautifully, and after a masterful piece of managerial genius by Steve 'if-I-can-do-it-so-can-you' Farley and Pete 'Prince-Charming-from-Shrek' Hopper, fresh faced super sub Michael 'Brazilia' Boden knocked down a ball into the path of Brainy who, one-on-one with the keeper slotted the ball home via the near post. 3-2.

Whistle. Job Done. Cue pitch invasion of seven people and a cat with a limp. Every single person in the team/squad deserves a mention today as I think something really clicked between them (Sorry if your name hasn't been mentioned - you'll have to wait for the book).

Finally, Sorry to Jnc10 if they feel at all hard done by today, but I guess it was about time that we had a result go our way. You're a strong team with some talented players that I'm sure will put today behind them and fly up the ranks. All the best lads.

Sandwell United 1 St John's Church 9

Adam Wall writes in a slightly less ebullient manner: St John's were looking to make it nine points from nine against a Sandwell side with some good results of late. It started well: A throw from Dan Platt, Adam Wall flicked the ball with his knee to Craig Turton he fired home, 1-0. It was soon two when Turton turned provider for Stuart Rogers to head home from close range. Turton was involved again when was played out wide he cut inside and lashed his second and St John's third. Just before HT Adrian Partington back in the St John's goal made the first of three really quality save point blank from Sandwell strikers HT 3-0.

St John's continued to press Adam Wall crossed for Rogers to duble his tally and make it 4-0. Adam Wall Then got on the scoresheet himself Jon Holmes raced through and was fouled in the box but the ref played advantage and Wall tapped into a empty net: 5-0. Lee Pitchford got in on the act when a corner was delivered perfect for him to head home, 6-0. Sandwell carried on working hard and got their reward when a shot was deflected in. 6-1. St John's were awarded a penalty for handball, Ash Hamer stepped up and blazed over. He soon made up for it with his next touch he crossed for Wall to get his second. 7-1. Stuart completed his hat trick when he fired home via a deflection from a tight angle. 8-1. Ash Hamer continued to make up when just before the end he got on the end of a deep cross to head back across to Wall who headed home for his second hat trick in as many games. Unlucky Sandwell and good luck for rest of season.

Sporting Zion 4 Brierley Hill AOG 2

Jon Bennett writes: The game was played yesterday at Lion Farm when the majority of other matches were called off due to waterlogged pitches, there were hugh areas of very sticky mud but everybody was glad that the game was on, thanks to the ref for making a brave decision to play the game. Brierley Hill went into the game with a bare eleven players, we knew it would be difficult as we were missing a keeper, two centre backs and our leading scorer.

Due to the conditions the game started in a predictably scrappy way, Zion were doing the majority of pressing but the Hill's defensive stood firm with our 'No 2' 'keeper Aaron Worrell making a number of good saves, one cross which he came to punch out one handed, was a fantastic save. As the half progressed Brierley Hill began to make a few chances as our confidence grew and we went into the half time break thinking that we could get something from the game.

Zion began the second half strongly and scored a thunderbolt within five minutes of the restart, rather than destroy our moral this seem to spur us on and after just two minutes and following move found Christian Jones who played a fantasic pass to Josh Owen who cooly sided footed the ball into the corner from twenty yards.

Back came Zion again and scored from a tight angle and once again this seemed to lift Brierley Hill and we won a penalty after good work in the box from Josh Owen again, with no volunteers the penalty duties fell to me and I managed to send the 'keeper the wrong way to score a deserved equaliser.

As players became tired the game was streched and Zion scored two winning goals as the task became too much for us. It is a sign of our renewed spirit and belief this season that even though we only just managed to scrap a team together, we showed enormous amounts of desire and actually came away feeling unlucky not to have taken anything from the game.

Zion City 5 All Nations 0

Zion City make no mistake as they keep tabs on Brierley Hill as Bawo Jarrett scores four in his side's derby win. That's 21 points for Zion now, a big improvement on last year already.

Friendly

Pye Green Towers 4 Burntwood United 1

Dave Spencer says: When we formed in February last year we were blessed with a number of teams such as MBD, DC Dynamos, St Boniface, Clarendon etc. who were more than keen to give us a run around before we joined the league. So in the same way when asked by a potential new team Burntwood United for a game we were more than happy to oblige as soon as we could.

The game was light-hearted and good fun to watch, we won 4-1 but it should be said that Burntwood have some extremely skilful players, their goal was a top corner job from 25 yards out. The only difference between the two sides was a season of experience. We were treated to half time drinks and tea/coffee at the end supplied by the numerous fans from their church. Burntwood are a good natured team with a strong Christian base, should they enter the league next season they will be a huge asset to us all. (I hope they do-Ed).

Ed: I will add that Burntwood had seriously considered joining last year but decided they couldn't commit just yet. I think they will start more strongly having gone away and made plans, rather than rush things.

League Cup Final

We have now secured the Grove, the home of Halesowen Town for the eleventh year on the trot as the venue for our League Cup Final. It will take place on Saturday 8 May and kick off at 3pm.

Good luck to our four semi-finalists, DC Dynamos, Selly Oak Methodist, City Church and Clarendon.

Saturday Review

Sadly, we are still seeing extensive disruption due to the elements. Snow and frost put paid to most of our games again yesterday and where they were played, conditions were far from ideal. With more snow forecast for this week, I am wondering where it's all going to end. Even the Premiership teams' pitches are looking ragged.

Division Two

MBD United 0 Rowley College 1

Pete Bennett reports: Full marks today to Steve Castle, the referee today. Seeing both teams wanted a game and that the pitch offered a chance as the ice was thawing he played a blinder: delayed the kick off, spoke to the teams about being sensible, played slightly shortened halves and then took full responsibility by being on top of every decision. The thaw was such that before the end what had started as too hard and crunchy had become too soft and sticky! In between we put in another good performance and secured three more points.

Naming the same back four (+ keeper) for the 4th consecutive game doesn’t hurt and they were once again the foundation restricting the tricky pacey MBD lads to barely a shot in anger in the whole game. We made the early running with Christie McKenzie leading the line well and Harvey and Wilkins both lively. The goal came midway through the first half when mark Southall followed up a corner and when his shot was blocked on the line Christie was there for 5 in 4 for us. They kept coming and have good quality but we defended well (Mark Scott at left back was outstanding) and on a sticky pitch the game became a battle. We lost Nathan Hylton early but Sammy Nelson came on and did very well holding it up and keeping MBD.

My only concerns were in the closing ten when we made the inevitable step back in our heads and allowed them too much of the ball. Luckily Southall and McIvor held us together and over the line.

Division Three

All Nations 0 St John's 5

Adam Wall says: St. Johns went into this game trying not to take this game easy especially after All Nations beat J10. St. Johns played very well today dominating from start to finish. Early chances came and went for St. Johns Adam Wall, Daniel Clarke and Craig Turton all going close. It was Adam Wall who fired the away side ahead when Clarke laid back to Wall he turned and fired home. 1-0. It continued in this way and just a few minutes later Wall doubled the lead sliding Jon Hall's through ball home. HT 2-0.

With just two minutes of the second half gone Wall completed his hat-trick when his deflected shot found the roof of the net.3-0. All Nations just didn't get going compared to the reverse fixture in which they gave us a hell of a game. It was 3-0 but it could of been more. I feel on their day All Nations have a good side capable of winning games. A long ball into Paul Beagen was chested down really well and Adam Wall ran on to it and finished. 4-0. Just before the end Gary Waites lobbed a lovely ball to Wall he ran through to complete the 5-0 scoreline with himself scoring all five. Unlucky Alll Nations! Keep your heads up and results will come.

Zion City 3 Common Ground United 3

Another drawn games for these two sides that have been involved in three excellent matches this season. Common Ground have the upper hand this year over Zion, as they knocked them out of the Cup as well as beating them in the reverse game. Both sides could well have done with the points, perhaps CGU more so as they have risen to fourth in the table.

The race for promotion is hotting up as Brierley Hill enter the fray, with seven teams battling for who knows how many promotion places. Strictly speaking it is a three-up, three-down league but with sides joining and leaving, that's rarely the case.

League Cup 2010

The League Cup is coming to its conclusion this year. We are now down to four teams; the semi finals are to be held on 20 March at neutral venues: The match between DC Dynamos and Selly Oak Methodist is at Moor Lane, home of EK, Inter and Clarendon and the game between City Church and Clarendon is at Coneygree Arts Centre, home of DC and Champions Church. Both matches will kick off at 10.30.

We are still working on the final itself but progress is being made: The venue is almost certain to be Halesowen Town again and probably on Saturday 8 May with a 3pm kick-off.

Saturday Review

Division One

St Thomas 1 St Mary's 4

Alex Russon reports: The league leaders swaggered down to St Thomas on Saturday and were given a good test by us but their quality shone through in the end.

After a hesitant start by us, we put several good moves together and grew in confidence despite being hampered by the use of all three subs by half-time including keeper Rob Wood who cried off with a dislocated finger, (they dont make 'em like John Burridge anymore). We were 1-0 down at the break and it was 2-0 after an hour with St Mary's slick passing too much for us to stand. Our heads never dropped despite conceding a third and the goal of the game was then scored by us through Gibbons after a passing move that our opponents would have been proud of. A goal in the dying minutes from St Mary's gave a somewhat flattering scoreline and I'm happy to confirm Josh Blunt as goalscorer, the ball, ahem, came nowhere my head as I attempted to clear it, aint that right Mr Roadway?!

St Mary's are well organised, fast and skilful, apart from that they're nothin special! Good luck to you lads in your quest for the title and I'm proud of you St T's for a great game from one and all.

Amblecote 2 Clarendon 4

Clarendon stay in second on goal difference with an assured victory over Amblecote, despite playing with ten men for an hour. The early pace-setters drop to fifth behind Halesowen Zion but are still only five points behind the top two.

Simon Ashby says: The problem we have always had with Clarendon is that they're quite good aint they!!!! If it wasn't for that I think we would beat them more often :) Again today they showed their killer instinct when having been reduced to 10 men at 1-1, went on to score three time to beat us 4-2.

The game started fairly evenly and after Clarendon had taken an early 1-0 lead, Jadon Silva met a clearance on the edge of the box and volleyed it off the underside of the bar. I was right behind him and was fearing more for my car behind the goal but he caught it like Tony Yeboah (for those with good memories) and it sailed in.

Clarendon then had a man sent off after about 30 minutes but as can happen, the sending off worked against us as I think we assumed we would win as we had just scored and had a man extra, but it didn't really go for us. With a couple of golden chances missed just before half-time.

In the second half the visitors scored to make it 2-1 and then Tim Fellows hit a great corner that clipped one of the Clarendon players on the way. So all set for a grandstand finish but in truth, the game was uneventful apart from two goals from Clarendon, both made from slack defending and the pace of the visiting forwards.

A gutter for us and we know we have to pick up the pace soon or risk our season just crawling to a finish.

St Matthew's 0 City Church 2

City stay in touch with the leaders, waiting for any slip-ups with a tough away win at St Matthew's. Louis Quaintance back from a serious knee injury reports: The game was affected somewhat today by the pitch which was very heavy underfoot. However, City managed to get the result they needed. St Matts had two clear early chances to take the lead, perhaps the two clearest in the game, the first required a good save from Chris Chattaway and the second hit the bar. It took City twenty minutes to get going and they took the lead just before half time after a good twenty minutes of play where the marauding Cooper amongst others sought to get the ball down and play.

The second half saw St Matts get in good attacking areas but they failed to find a telling pass to equalise. Ogbourn and Cooper drove the team forward without creating clear cut openings until Quaintance was fouled just outside the box after it looked as if he might be through on goal. He then took the freekick to make it 2-0. Liam Youlden was full of energy and commitment at left back, Matt Blount made some telling passes down the left and Stokes and Sheppard made countless interceptions and crucial tackles to ensure the three points. The quality of the substitutes and the result compared to a hammering City took a couple of seasons back here is testament to the progress they’ve made under Martin’s supervision. A good ethos in the team and some real quality injected into the team this year has made a big difference.

Martin Ogbourn adds: A return to the League today for City and a welcome three points to get City's League campaign back up and running after a magnificent effort in the Cup last week. It seemed City had a Cup hangover in the early exchanges as St Matthews started with more energy, and created the best early efforts. One long range chip from Martin Nicholls grazed the top of the bar, and not for the first time it took City 20 minutes or so to get into the game. However, from this time on City started to be more competitive and play some better football. We were able to use the width of the pitch to get away from the boggy centre (which made Row Heath seem like a bowling green!). Flowing football was difficult, but both teams should be credited for trying to pass the ball throughout in heavy conditions. Just before half time City took the lead from a 'goal of the season' candidate from Daniel Atkins after a ball wasn't cleared!

At half time City talked about raising the tempo of the game, and this was achieved with an improved second half performance. David Cooper and Louis Quaintance were at the forefront of much of the good work for the team. St Matthews were able to get in good wide positions, but did not trouble our quality keeper Chris Chattaway who had a composed, quiet game after his penalty shootout heroics last week! The team ensured a second clean sheet running (during 90 minutes of play!) and the defence were able to repel attacks with another commanding performance from John Shep and Rob Stokes, ably supported by Liam Youlden and Matt Blount (who contributed well in attacks). City had the better possession and play in the second half and hit the bar from a Daniel Atkins freekick before Louis Quaintance scored direct from another dead-ball opportunity late in the game to secure the points.

It was great to see Louis score as he has now scored in each of our five seasons in WMCFL. This was a hard fought win for City against St Matthews after three consecutive 2-2 draws in the past two seasons. It was not our best performance, but with several changes from the Cup side it was a positive result and battling team effort. Once again we showed our strength in depth. Martin Colvin put in his best performance in a City shirt, and Jason Garwood and Daniel Atkins worked hard in a new attacking combination!

Martin Nicholls also says: We feel somewhat aggrieved not to have gained something from this game. We started well and early on I hit the bar, Ant Kelly had a shot tipped on to the bar and over and Dave Broome had an identical chance to last week only this time the keeper saved smartly. We also felt hard done to not to have been given a penalty. A corner came in bounced and hit a defender's arm. His arm was not raised but the same ref gave the opposite decision and gave a penalty against us under similar circumstances earlier this season.

We restricted City and gifted them a lead just before half time when a defensive error gifted Dan Atkins the ball six yards out, he scuffed his shot and nearly missed but the sliding Rich Knowles couldn't quite clear. To be fair a linesman that was not neutral may not have given the goal - that is the beauty (or not so) of the neutral official!!

Second half it seemed like we wasted opportunity after opportunity to get ourselves back in to the game. We got in behind City on at least half a dozen occasions and failed to deliver that illusive final ball.

City scored a free kick with around five minutes left to effectively end the game. We have played much worse than this this and won this season. We had several players out but Lee Roberts impressed on his first appearance and a walking wounded Rory Taylor did well filling in at the back. Stu Wilkinson worked hard and did well on the left got giving their right back a moments rest. Another day and this would have finished differently however City took their chances and that was the difference today. Next week Zion and hopefully a similar performance with a much different result!!

King's AFC 2 Halesowen Zion 4

Tom Doran and Earl Grant score twice each as Halesowen move up to fourth with a 4-2 win against King's. Richard Ricketts hit both of his side's goals as King's lie just above he relegation zone. We cannot rule out Halesowen bringing the title back as they are just three points behind Clarendon and St Mary's.

Grant Doran says: With the league being so tight, the three points were vital today to give us a bit of breathing space from the teams below us. If King's had won they would have been two points behind us and we would have dropped right into a mid table battle.

So as usual we started badly and despite talking about getting the ball down on the ground and playing it to feet we did the total opposite and rushed most of the possession we had, gifting the ball back to King's time and again. King's were unlucky not to have been in the lead before they actually got the penalty for 1-0, as they cracked a post after a quick counter attack. It was their direct running that was causing us the problems and from one of many breaks Noony brought down the forward in the box and the resulting pen was dispatched low into the left hand corner.

King's continued to press and soon had a second after another quick break down the left wing and cross found Ricketts three yards out with the simple task of turning the ball home. We changed the system back to 4,4,2 from 3,5,2 and we started to at least create a few openings with Tom forcing a good save from the home keeper after going through on goal and Dan sending a shot across the face of goal after some tidy football. I was all set for a half time team talk based on being 2-0 down when Earl arrived at the back post and headed home a good cross from the left wing to change the face of the game and my team talk.

At half time we spoke about getting the ball down and playing football and this time, unlike the first half we actually did this. The extra man at the back meant that King's were now not anywhere near as much of a threat as they had been in the opening 45 minutes and with the ball being kept on the deck and played into feet we started to look something like a football team. Upfront we looked sharp today with Earl and Tom both playing extremely well, and it was not a great shock to see both of them net twice. We created a bag full of chances in the second half with tom hitting the bar and shooting wide after being put through on goal and Earl having a chance cleared of the line with some good last ditch defending. Kings will feel that they may have deserved something from the game after the first half in which they dominated but we certainly felt that the second half belonged to us and with the chances that we created feel we edged it overall. A good game and a great three points.

Wolverhampton and Perton Churches 5 Sheldon 2

Lyndon Fisher says: This was a very entertaining game played in the right spirit, but again it was the same old story. Although the scoreline looked impressive we had as much of the play if not more as W&P, the difference being the finishing. We desperately need a striker who can bang in the goals, our approach play at times was superb, they scored first we then scored two more, a tap in by Carl Christie, and the usuall volley shot by Dean Starling, they equalised to make it 2 2 at half time.

The second half was end to end football with us carving out numerous chances but failing to score. W&P were not the better side, they just knew where the back of the net was. Our determination and passion is still there and we will battle on to the very end.

Tom Baugh adds: The final scoreline in this one probably doesn’t reflect what was actually a hard fought, closely contested match throughout.

Wolves got their noses in front early, Olly Jones heading in from close range after some neat build up play down the right. Sheldon immediately came storming back though and deservedly notched two quick-fire goals to turn the game on it’s head. Slight controversy over their second, as the ball seemed to have gone out of play in the build-up, but I suppose when you’re struggling at the bottom, it’s nice to see a bit of luck go your way.

Unfortunately for the visitors, they couldn’t hold on until half-time and Olly Jones once again found the back of the net, this time with a perfectly timed strike from just inside the penalty area. To their credit though, Sheldon finished the half the stronger side and might count themselves unlucky not to have been in front.

The second 45 was much the same as the first with both sides seeing a decent amount of the ball and trying to create openings. But it was Wolves who got the crucial breakthrough when a corner landed at the feet of Paggie on the penalty spot and his shot found the corner of the net, via a fortuitous deflection.

Gaz Owen then emerged from the bench and immediately got on the scoresheet, sprinting clear with a ball over the top and cleverly chipping home over the advancing keeper. John Morris poked in a fifth from close range to kill-off any hope the visitors had of getting back into it, but that didn’t stop them from creating a few presentable chances, Uncle Rich doing well to deny them any success.

So for the third game in a row, Wolves are made to work hard by a team from the bottom three. We were outplayed for long periods in each of those matches, but the fact we emerged with seven points perhaps shows why we’re safely ensconced in mid-table. However, we’ll need to improve significantly next week, if we’re to have any chance against St. Marys.

Good luck to Sheldon (apart from the return fixture of course). With the players they had on show yesterday, they really shouldn’t be sitting bottom of the table with just four points. Unfortunately though, you can be a decent side and still struggle in Division One.

St Boniface 2 Zion Athletic 5

James Hamilton comments on yesterday's best ever Division One win: Today, everything clicked in to place for us in this crucial six-pointer. We have been playing well but struggling to find the net all season, so today's five goals has been coming and we could have had more.

The first half was a real spectacle for the neutral - not that there were any neutrals there! It was end to end stuff with both teams netting two goals each in the first 20 minutes. We gifted St Boniface their two strikes, giving the ever dangerous Jimmy Cutler too much time and space. Just before the break we edged ahead with another fine breakaway goal from Leon, who ran the St B's defence ragged all morning.

The second half saw St B's apply some good early pressure, but our defence stood up strong and we effectively killed the game off with a typical Toomey free kick into the box for Jal to glance his header into the bottom corner. St B's were soon down to nine men and we were down to ten towards the end - but it wasn't that kind of game. We took advantage of our numerical advantage with another well taken goal and should have added a sixth had one of our players (who will remain nameless) not decided he was playing rugby and looking for three points from 3 (three) yards out with an open goal at his mercy. Never mind Ethan . . . oops!

Division Two

Renewal Solihull 3 Champions Church 2

Shawn Devonport reports: Back with a bang last week, back down to earth this week. We were missing Josh Ball, Lee Ralph, Mark Goule, Dave Oakley which didn't help and Lost Rob Moody after 45 minutes as well as Dan in goal playing the whole game limping and unable to take kicks. But thats no excuse for a lacklustre performance with a lack of fight and throwing a game away with 11 capable players on the pitch when it's a squad game.

We started very brightly with the dip in the pitch denying us twice. We went 1-0 up when Rion played me in and we soon made it 2-0 when a fantastic Greg Thompson ball allowed for me to round the keeper and make it 2-0. To be honest it was a poor game, we looked more dangerous but neither team created much at all and out of the blue Renewal got a penalty and scored to make it 2-1 HT.

Second half and Moody went off leaving us with only two recognised defenders in a team before today that had the same back four every game and not suprisingly we looked shaky. Neither team creating much still as the game became a bit of a battle but Renewal were battling harder and looked the more hungry now looking much more dangerous especially the lively number 10 and utilising their long throw. The equalising goal came from a corner that landed at Ashley's feet he cleared the ball and it smacked Greg off his legs and rolled in past Dan. Unlucky again but at this point we really weren't battling or fighting and we invited it on to ourselves. Renewal then looked the more likely and got the winner: Dan went to pick the ball up but by his own admition made a big error (his first for the club) and allowed the number 10 to net the winner with an open goal. We looked a little more livley again at this point but Renewal defended brilliantly and with the last kick I went past five, squared it to Nathan who put the ball in but a Renewal defender came from no where and made an exceptional block. Head in hands moment and Renewal had three points.

Brian said at the end that he was going to put the lottery on today as they had got lucky but I must say they really battled well, they didn't play as well as they did in the second half at our place when they took us apart but fair play to them.

For us I hope its the kick up the rear we needed: Too much promotion and title talk before the match and we realise now if we didn't before that we need to perform every week and fight every match, its only our fourth defeat in two years (including two against Clarendon) and it's the first time we lost the game ourselves. In the other three games we were fairly and resoundingly beaten so we were all disapointed at the final whistle. It's all still in our hands and it's Lighthouse next week; we will have everyone back so bring them on, our guys will be hungry to prove a point after a disappointing showing today. We were very unlucky today in reflection but have ridden our luck at times over two years and one of these days were always going to happen eventually. Roll on next week and well done Renewal.

MBD United 1 EK Corinthia 0

Another game and another defeat in 2010 for EK. The result throws MBD and Selly Oak back into the mix to leave us with the promise of a barn-storming finish to Division Two. I'm sure it's far from over yet but EK will need to start winning if they are to hold on to their promotion place. To be fair, MBD are a great side that can compete with the best in WMCFL when they click.

Lighthouse Lions 4 Chawn Hill Church 2

Lighthouse move up to third, their highest position ever in WMCFL, with a win over Chawn Hill Church. I still don't think that they'll go up but after their recent run of results, I wouldn't rule it out completely. With the top teams all looking a little vulnerable at times and Lighthouse looking rock-solid at home, you never know...

For Chawn, they are still in trouble and with just five league matches left they need to win perhaps three of them to keep out of the bottom three.

Birmingham International 3 Dynamo Kingswinford 2

Inter register a vital three points against a rejuvenated DK to dial themselves back into the promotion push. I really think there are six teams now in contention as they play a game of 'after you sir' at the top. For Dynamo, their fate is in their hands as they have Solihull and Chawn in their next two matches and then Bournbrook first week of March. If they take nine points from those games, it will put a different complexion on the look of the bottom of Division Two.

Bournbrook Athletic 1 Rowley College 2

Pete Bennett reports: Another cracking game today, played in the best spirit by both teams. Bournbrook were once again short of both players and luck but equally did themselves proud both in ability and application. Our lads also gave a good account of themselves in both word and deed and extended our unbeaten stretch to five games; this is one that earlier in the season we would have lost. With three lads away on a comedy tour (including our in-form centre forward) we were happy to welcome back Simon Morris and Craig Micklewright; both did well and Craig became the talking point of the morning! Bournbrook were again fielding the minimum requirement in numbers but more than enough in football craft.

We started a little defensively but inside twenty minutes might have put the game to bed having been awarded two penalties. The first was dispatched by Nathan Hylton after their defender handled but the second, made by Craig as he was brought down in the box, prompted a discussion and fateful indecision. Ultimately Nathan gave Craig the ball but his penalty was saved. However the luckless Bournbrook keeper, who had already got a couple of whacks for his trouble (in open play and without malice) rose to see the ref ordering a retake for encroachment! Sadly, for us, Craig repeated the routine and they were spurred on. We then went from comfortable leaders to hanging on with Lee Roberts doing really well to tip over a sublime Max Tully dipping 30 yard freekick. Finally a sloppy pass from us in midfield set them forward for a fine equaliser. However, before they could profit further, they were further disadvantaged with one of those red cards that nobody relishes. When three of our players are arguing for an opponent to stay on the field, something is surely being said.

The only reason it didn’t ruin a perfectly good game was their attitude. For a decent spell in the second half they looked like the team with eleven. Lee made another great save, fingertipping over a rasping drive. Thankfully we showed patience and Mark Southall was again a driving force for us: he kept us in the game and then held us together when we finally got in front. Craig had worked all game to make amends and when he raced onto a Stew Harvey throughball there was only one outcome; 2-1. He wasn’t finished though since he went through again only to stumble in the box. The ref who was a good way back gave a penalty but Craig, I’m proud to say, went over and explained he hadn’t been fouled and the ref reversed his decision! We might have regretted this as they never stopped playing and pressing but we were getting more chances and may have added to the score. Bournbrook deserve massive credit for their contribution over two good games. I wish them all the best.

Max Tully adds: The reverse of last week’s fixture and yet another close fought match and yet another harsh loss for Bournbrook.

The match started competitively with Rowley shading the early play. Just as we began to put some passes together and take control of the game yet another player gets sent off for swearing. Anyway Rowley took the lead before this with a penalty, we came back strong and through nice football a chance opened up for Bizzle Boughton who dispatched crisply. So 1-1 then more drama Rowley awarded another penalty which the keeper Adam Wooldridge (who had a great game) superbly saved, but wait: a retake for encroachment. You guessed it Adam with yet another great save, half time 1-1.

In the second half we started the better and generally had the better play, and in patches some really class passing football. However the team got tired with only 10 on the field and although putting in 110% Rowley snatched it late on against the run of play with a really good goal. Great team performance today particularly Bizzle Boughton, Dave Long and Adam Wooldridge.

Again Rowley are a solid team and I have to say I saw some of the best sportsmanship I have ever seen on a football field today with their striker admitting he tripped forcing the ref to change his decision on yet another penalty. This was not an isolated incident though with the game played in a great spirit throughout, great credit to them as a team, a great bunch of lads and I wish them luck with the rest of the season, how football should be played!

Division Three

Junction Ten Village 2 Sporting Zion 1

Junction Ten remain top of Division Three but appear to have DC chomping at their heels. The 'big game' is scheduled for 10 April, it could be the decider for the title unless either side slip between now and then. At this moment J10 are looking a little more vulnerable but both sides in the title race are having great seasons, with much to build on. Sporting Zion's hopes of promotion in their first season are looking a little slim but it's not over.

DC Dynamos 8 Pye Green Towers 1

Mark Crouch says: A strange day for football today....Frost....Rain....Snow and sunshine we had it all and another straight forward win for DC today. Today we rested 20+ goals in our two lead scorers and Steve B and ran out comfortable winners against a Pye Green side unable to contend with our passing and movement. It was like watching the lads in training on a Wednesday night. Three touch football with lovely triangles all over the park and when we were required to finish, we finished with aplomb.

Dave Rich started the proceedings off within five minutes with a thunderbolt strike from the edge of area. Fast becoming a trade mark goal of his. Five minutes later it was two from a wonderful Clinton Dudson cross when the ball seemed dead but even better was the anticipation of the cross from Ben Russell who headed in rising beautifully to control the ball in under the bar. Pye Green pulled one back as three DC defenders went for the same ball and blocked the vision of our goalie...the ball falling to their striker who scuffed his shot and in it rolled. A soft goal to concede but as per usuall it just got DC back on it. Two minutes later it was three as Ben Russell scored a lovely goal from the tightest of angles after going on a mazey run beating four players and slamming it in. The half was controlled by Bluey who again showed his experience with most chances starting from his right foot. He was ably assisted by new boy Ja Jackson and Murphy and Rich. To be fair there was only one team in the half and Pye Green did well to go in only 3-1 down at half time.

The second half was as all DC as our keeper cut a lonely figure barely moving in his goal as DC were camped in the Pye Green half. Ben Russell missed an easy chance to score his hat trick and the joke was out that wouldn't it be funny if Adam Bradshaw came on and scored a hat trick before Ben got his. On he came and duly scored a 20 minute hat trick with some superb ball control and exquisite finishing. He finished on four for the day and was unlucky not to make it five when brought down in the area. Credit to the DC lads who let Ben take the resulting penalty to get his hat trick and round off a great day for DC. Had James Cole been on his game today this could easily have been well into double figures. Man of the match Adam Bradshaw well done son but it could easily have been Bluey had he had anything to do second half. Another great team performance and another great win. Good luck to Pye Green for the rest of the season.

Wayne Capewell adds: Coming into this fixture, confidence was high possibly because DC seem to struggle to finish off the lower placed teams in the league. From reading their match reports they completley dominate every team they play as they did against us at home in Cannock when they barely registerd a shot on target.

In this fixture though they were ruthless, completely dominating open play. Their passing and movement was second to none. Straight from the first whistle we were pinned back well inside our own half; our full backs were beaten time and time again wave after wave. Our sloppy passes and hopeless long balls were never going to penetrate a side with so much ability we were made to pay a heavy price for a half spirited team performance.

The performance from from us was full of defensive errors and goalkeeping bloopers; two penalties, three defenders marking one striker who found space and nodded home simple school boy errors. This was frustrating to watch. Wayne Taylor though was quality in midfield he really wouldnt look out of place in Division One, with three players to contain, his was an impossiable task. Matt Drury at CB plays with his heart on his sleeve, 8-1 down and still battling: These were the few plusses we can take from this performance; a bad day at the office but we can and will only get better. Next week can't come soon enough...Well played DC, a terrific performance full of quality.

Dave Spencer adds: Our fourth time of meeting DC Dynamos, and to honest in the past we've been quite surprised how they've beaten the likes of Common Ground and Junction 10. Saturday was a story of a team knowing how to exploit our mistakes and take advantage of them. Most of the game was 3-1 and then in the last 15 minutes we tried shoving the entire exhausted midfield into attack: a strategy which obviously didn't pay off. There was little chance of us winning, but it must be said we were off form compared to the matches where we have drawn against the slightly more skilful Common Ground and Rockmount. I had a good laugh watching the game and I am more than looking forward to next week's fixture against Brierley, at the end of the day we are a bunch of guys who have learnt to enjoy the game no matter what.

St John's 3 Rockmount United 1

Adam Wall says: St John's saw this game as must win after Rockmount overtook them in the promotion race last week. All be it with St.Johns having three games in hand we all know its points on the board that count. St. Johns started brightly and went ahead went a long free kick was nodded down by Adam Wall to Lee Pitchford he smashed the ball home on the volley. 1-0. Rockmount came back at us but man of the match Ryan Venables broke up attack after attack with his well timed tackling. Rockmount did create a few half chances only to be foiled by Gary Bailey in goal. (Gary Bailey?-Ed). Rockmount attacked St. Johns but the home side won the ball and flew forward with Ash Hamer clean through, he only found the on rushing keeper but Adam Wall was on hand to tap home. Half Time 2-0.

The second was much like the first in the sense Rockmount had the ball but struggled to create any clean cut chances. They were soon punished Craig Turton laid the ball to Ash Hamer he ran past two players and beat the keeper to the ball to poke home. 3-0. Rockmount continued to push and did start to create chances but were guilty of missing a few (I think I'm safe to say) sitters. When their goal came it was a great solo effort but the subsitute (number 14) he beat two and fired low left footed past the St. Johns keeper. FT 3-1.

Well done to the referee. All the St. Johns lads said after the game he is the best referee we've had this year.

Common Ground United 6 All Nations 2

CGU do their chances of securing promotion a power of good as they make easy meat of All Nations. They now lie just outside the top three but there are a bunch of teams swarming around after the top two. If CGU can keep winning, they will be a real threat in this division.

Brierley Hill AOG 3 Zion City 0

Jon Bennett says: A decent game of football played today between two mid table teams. The fact that last year we were both in the bottom three has shown how far we are both progressing. Both teams were missing a few players and it lead to lot of effort but mainly a forgettable first half we both defences on top. At half time we thought that we had had the better of the half but had really failed to trouble their keeper.

The second half began and the Hill continued to push and looked slightly more threatening. Mike Tyler chased down a through ball and rounded the keeper before crossing the ball in which was then headed back to Stu Bingham who struck the ball which managed to find its way through the 'keepers legs to give the Hill the lead. There was some controversy over this goal as Zion were convinced the ball had run over the goal line before it was crossed in. Stu has now his best ever season's goal tally, after seeing how many goals he scores in training we are convinced there's a striker trapped inside him! This was followed by a serious injury to the Zion goalkeeper who had come out of his goal to make a good save from a one on one situation, he fell awkwardly on his ankle which he may have possibly broken, he was taken to hospital and all of Brierley Hill wish him well and a speedy recovery.

As the game restarted Carl Wakeman treated everyone to a thunderous half volley which found the top corner of the net, he seemed to be everywhere today and was certainly frustrating Zion's attacks, they commented that he was such a giant he was like three men! As Zion pushed for an equaliser Josh Owen raced onto a through ball to finish past the stand in goalkeeper, Josh worked tirelessly today and deserved his goal.

A game played in tremendous spirit today, everyone had a smile on their face, Zion are a great set of lads, good luck for the rest of the season boys!

Sandwell United 16 Living Hope Church 1

Another record result, although to my knowledge, Walsall's 16-0 win over Brierley Hill many years ago is the all-time topper. Not bad for a side that went through their first season winning just one match and perhaps Living Hope should take note of that statistic.

Steve Farley says: I didn't think I would be able to write this - it hurts so much but here goes..........

For the first 15 minutes I thought we had a great chance of registering our first win and then disaster struck: One of our most important midfield players spoke to the ref out of turn and out came a red card - We had to play most of the game with 10 men - Ouch! The midfield reshuffle upset our rhythm and before we knew it we were 2-0 down.

Then on the half hour mark the game was ultimately decided by a difficult refereeing decision when our striker Nathan Brain was brought down in the penalty area by the Sandwell keeper. There were then a few nervous moments for Sandwell as the referee gave us a penalty but the goalie was relieved only to get a yellow card. The keeper then made a great save from the penalty and even scooped away the rebound.

Despite the two decisions that went against us I thought the referee and two linesmen all had excellent games which is more than I can say for our team in the second half. Nevertheless we will be back to fight another day and we will work hard from now till the end of the season to get things right. Well done to Sandwell too for playing some very good football.

Saturday Review

League Cup Quarter-Finals

Common Ground United 2 DC Dynamos 5

DC make history by becoming the first ever Division Three side into the semi-finals with a fairly solid looking score line against fellow Division Three team CGU. Mark Crouch says: Finally some more football and what an occasion: The quarters of the Cup and the last remaining Division Three clubs go head to head. Last time we met, I felt that we unfortunate not to win, though a comprehensive win sees DC into the Semis of the Cup and create a bit more history for a fledgling club.

For a change DC got off to a great start battering the Common Ground goal and being unfortunate not to score a couple of goals inside the first 15 mins. Again it was the opposition who scored first from the penalty spot this time as Josh Burford (keeper) brought their striker down inside the area. He cooly slotted it away although Josh was unlucky not to save it with a fine effort. Common Ground never really looked like scoring from open play today though and the half finished 1-0 to Common Ground although it could easily have been 4-1 to DC.

The team talk consisted of 'keep doing what you are doing lads and it will come' and it happened alright. Within five minutes of the restart it was level as Steve B found himself inside the Common Ground box after a corner and a fantastic bullet like shot rammed home to make it 1-1. After five more minutes DC took the richly deserved lead as Dean Cole hit a sweet shot low and hard giving the keeper no chance. Shortly after that, DC were awarded a penalty as Shaun Capper was brought down in the box after a glorious run. James Cole stepped up giving their keeper no chance: 3-.

Three minutes later Adam Doupe missed an open goal when it looked harder to miss...his shot going for a throw in. He got some serious stick for his blunder....taxi!!!!! 10 Minutes later Common Ground looked to have a lifeline as the ref awarded another penalty which they duly scored to make it 3-2 but from there on in it was all DC as James Cole scored his second with another mazey trade mark goal. Man of the match by a mile, Steve B capped his finest performance yet in a DC shirt with a beautiful header at the back post from an excellent Clint Dudson corner.

Whilst the scores were close for a fair proportion of the match, I felt that DC were in control and always looked like winning. We still continue to improve.

St Boniface 1 Selly Oak Methodist 4

DC will face Selly Oak in the semis as they knock out the last Division One side in the top half of the draw with a convincing result. Each season Selly Oak seem to get better and threaten to get promoted but during the last two seasons they've missed out narrowly. They also made it to the semi-final a couple of years back but were trounced by a rampant St Mary's team.

Rob O'Neill reports: We've actually played football for the first time since early December!! I think that was the first triumph of the day. Selly Oak turned up in a determined mood today and you could sense it in the dressing room beforehand that each player was desperate to get on the pitch. The match started off however at a reasonably slow pace with most the football taking place in the middle of the pitch with very few meaningful chances. Then disaster struck with a speculative shot from 25 odd yards which most keepers in the league would have smothered (Although it did move a lot) went in between my legs and into the corner of the net. Embarrassing? Yes but it did serve to wake us up and we finally began to press St. B's with some great play from Daniel Morris and Lukiano Zinetti in particular. We drew level when a cross from the left found Sean Burke on the edge of the box and his back to goal and he unleashed an awesome effort that dipped over the keeper at pace and into the roof of the net and simply fell over in celebration to receive a relieved celebratory pile on. We didn't really come close after this for the rest of the first half and when the half time whistle blew we knew we needed to step it up in the second half if we were to avoid extra time.

The second half was a million times better from Selly Oak and early on a corner from Lukiano found Mozza at the near post to superbly stab it into the net and stun St. Boniface who had been tough to break down all first half. We started to play some great football working it out from the back using the width and with Loz Belgrave working hard in the middle. It was St. Boniface however who almost scored next when the ball found their number ten at the back post and the match seemed to stop expecting offside but no flag came so I closed him down and managed to block the shot from close range with my legs maybe half making up for my first half blunder. Our third was another cross from the right wing which glanced off the head of Daryl Brandy and there was a debate post match as to whether Lukiano got a touch on it as it headed in but most the team agreed it should be Daryl's goal and that Lukiano had touched it after it had crossed the line.

St. Boniface kept working however with their captain No.7 being inspirational and trying to find Obi and their No. 10 but our defence stood firm as they have done all season. A few substitutions brought on Jamie, Naf and Hadi to inject a bit of pace and movement into the closing stages and we began to dominate Jamie in particular making a big impact. I was called into action a few more times having to tip a corner over the crossbar and a few sliding interceptions but Daryl finished off the match with a solid header which there was no doubt about.

It was a great game from the Selly Oak point of view and we always enjoy our matches against St. Boniface, we have a week off again next week before facing Bournbrook for the second time. Off the top of my head I think we're unbeaten in eleven now and still unbeaten home and away at Lion Farm. Results have gone our way in the league also and if we win our games in hand we will go second and four points ahead of EK and just five behind Champions Church. The next round of the Cup brings Third Division DC Dynamos and if Leeds have shown anything this season its not to underestimate a lower league team who are having a great season we are one step away from the finals again but will not make the same mistakes we did against St. Marys I can assure you. Should be a great game!

City Church 1 St Mary's 1 (City won 4-2 on penalties after extra time, FT:0-0)

This one lived up to its billing as tie of the round, Dan Atkins reports: On a typically muddy day at fortress Row Heath, City had a great chance to better last year's result and reach the semi finals of the Cup... One problem, it was againt the notoriously superb St Mary's. This game was a timely test of our resolve and 'bouncebackability' having only picked up one point from our last two matches.

The game started with City playing up 'the hill' demonstrating unseen craft, creativity and teamwork with all players fighting for every ball. Chances came and went for both teams as the game flew by at 100 miles an hour, but neither team could break the deadlock before half time. The best chances that were created were from 20 or so yards and lacked any accuracy to trouble either keeper.

The second half started brightly for City, pushing the ball around the park and creating chances but it was St Mary's who gave us the first scare with an effective long pass from the full-back into the path of the oncoming strikers, followed by a low hard shot. Another excellent game from Chris Chattaway (arguably the best keeper in the league) who never let any chance phase him. Another great sign for City was the introduction of Louis Quaintance (following crutiate knee ligament surgery) for Jason Garwood, who again, was always a threat. Louis also looked as fresh as ever and this will encourage manager Ogbourn.

With ten minutes to go, the clear City pressure eventually cracked the St Mary's back line and Dave Louden forced a handball out of the defender in the penalty area. Unfortunately, this proved to not be the turning point. Atkins smashed the penalty over the bar. Fortunately the team battled for the final ten mintues and at full time it finished 0-0. Extra time began in the same fashion with City shooting up the hill and gain the same result with both teams really failing to capitalise on pressure and opportunities created. With the frantic high tempo nature of the game, the first 15 minutes had passed before you could even say 'Respect Campaign'. The second period started with City desperate to prove a point to the league and Louis, Dave Louden and Dave Cooper all created good chances.

All the goalmouth action was left until the dying minutes of extra time. With three minutes to go, St Mary's won a corner following some good passing and movement. The delivery was pinpont, the run inch-perfect and the header unstoppable. A simple header, a simple goal: 1-0 to St Mary's. With the new mentality of the City Church player comes the new belief that it's not over until it's over and went straight down the other end and smashed in an equaliser with only seconds to spare. Steve Bailey with the sublime left foot shot in off the post. 1-1. The final whistle sounded and with penalties around the corner, St Mary's must have fancied themselves having seen City miss one already.

St Marys won the toss and chose to go first. First pen: Chris Chattaway saves low to his right. Dan Atkins steps up and fires low and soft into the bottom corner: 1-0. 2nd Pen: Confident St Mary's player strokes it into the top of the net. Dave Cooper (the engine room) curls one confidently into the keeper's right side but the keeper did get a hand to it: 2-1. 3rd Pen: St Mary's centre half smashes the ball over the keeper's left corner. Louis, confident as you like drills the ball passed the keeper: 3-1. 4th Pen: a confident strike from the St Mary's player in the keeper's right but Chris gets his hand to it. Chris turns from keeper to taker and belts the ball past the keeper to win the game 4-2 on penalties.

This was a thoroughtly enjoyable game and both sides competed fantastically until the final whistle. City march on and have a chance to avenge the recent defeat against Clarendon in the Semi Finals. Final score 1-1. (4-2 on Penalties) With a few players out I want to make a special mention to Rob Stokes who not only played but started his first game in nearly a year following an injury and looked like he hadn't missed a game. Well done and welcome back. Obviously a big mention to Chris Chattaway who was fantastic and won the shootout almost single handedly.

Nick Sprason adds: We lost on penalties today in a bit of an epic and following today's battle I suspect City will become big rivals of ours for years to come. Over 90 minutes it was fairly even, maybe City just shaded it, with Dan Atkins missing a penalty with eight to go. In extra time we took the lead through a great header from Tom Locke only for City to go straight down the other end to equalise, two goals in a minute, after 115 without any! So it went to penalties, Ashley Turner and John Myatt failed to score for us and City scored all four taken.

Good luck to them in the semi-final. All we have to play for now is the league. We will be doubly determind to make amends.

Clarendon 3 Halesowen Zion 0

Clarendon cruise into the semi finals with an assured performance against Halesowen Zion. Tommy Woodward says: Another battle against a tough Halesowen side saw us through to the semis. It was the first time this season that Roger had a full squad to pick from. Our first half performance was some of the best we've played this season, so we felt we earned the 2-0 half time lead. In the second half Halesowen came at us but our defence cleaned up everything that was sent their way. Pablo ran the show with Jay Greene running the Halesowen defence all over the place and grabbing his second goal late in the second half. We are looking forward to playing our reserve side (City Church) in the semis now and hopefully a third final on the bounce.

Grant Doran adds: With the extended Christmas break through the adverse weather it was nice to get a game finally, however losing and being dumped out of the Cup, soon had me wishing that we had missed another week.

We started with a few missing faces but it was a strong team so we can have few complaints regards absentees. Although the score looked fairly impressive the actually game was a lot closer, the main difference as has so often been the case, was the pace and clinical finishing of the top two. As far as I can remember they created five genuine goal scoring chances and they took three of them. The first came through a quick one two and then a ball dropped over the back line for Morrison to chase. He slid the ball home after winning the race to the ball with both the defender and the keeper. Despite the set back we were still in the game, our biggest problem was that we were only playing the ball on the ground in patches instead choosing to force the game with long balls that inevitably went to no one. With the half approaching it's end a quickly taken free kick caught Halesowen flat and the chipped pass found Greene in the box. After controlling the ball on his chest and holding off the tackle from John Willy he poked the ball over Noon in goal and despite the best efforts of two Halesowen players to get back to the ball it rolled over the line.

Half time and we said that we had to start to play to our strengths and keep possession rather than look to play the ball over the top. To be fair to the lads the work rate was not bad considering the amount of time since we last played and the second half saw us start to get the ball own and we created a couple of great chances. The best falling to Earl who fired just over the bar after a nice passing move. However the speed of the front players for Clarendon meant that we had to be fully focused as they only need to have a sniff of a chance and they are away from you. With us looking to move the ball around the pitch and get the goal that would get us back into the game the threat was there for a counter attack and so it proved as Clarendon broke down the left and all though the first ball was headed away the second ball was won and emphatically dispatched into the corner of the net from the edge of the box by Greene.

Overall the game was a good contest but we came up against a very potent attacking performance that in the end proved the difference. The lads should be pleased with the work rate and commitment as it will have been a big step towards blowing out the cobwebs after Christmas. Best of luck to Clarendon for the semis.

Division One

Sheldon 1 St Thomas Aldridge 0

I received the text of the result and scorer with the appendage: 'Oh ye of little faith'. I am pleased for Sheldon as they have now broken their duck in the league and won their first game. We just have Living Hope left to get a win, I hope they do too.

For Sheldon, I can't see them escaping relegation. I think Division One's bottom three will be the bottom three come 1 May. The other two stand a chance but even if Sheldon win their next three matches, they won't be out of the relegation zone. There's a chance that like the last two years Division One will expand again, so tenth may be enough.

But well done Sheldon, I bet they bounced back to the dressing room. Troubled times for St Thomas though; Division Two next season is looking ever more likely.

Lyndon Fisher adds: A morale boosting win for us today, well deserved creating many chances and having the better of the first half. A well placed shot by our Captain Richard Lucey gave us a deserved lead. The second half started at a fast pace, our defence holding solidly, with Nick Bate at the helm. Our makeshift goalie Josh Lea making a crucial save late in the game, but a draw would have been unfair on us with all the chances we created. St Thomas no doubt will be disappointed they didn' t come away with something but we were the better side on the day and deserved our victory.

St Matthew's 3 King's AFC 1

Martin Nicholls reports: Willis and I remarked that the last full match we both had played had been each other and it showed with both teams looking a little ring rusty. We felt that we should have taken the spoils last time out and was out for a bit of revenge. Bad news for us though at the start when Rory Taylor injured himself warming up and we had to switch the team before kick off leaving us with a bare eleven.

King's easily started the better with several chances to snatch an early lead, unfortunately for them they missed them all. They also had a goal rightly scratched off after a foul on our keeper. We took the lead when Ant Kelly slotted me through and I finished after being one on one. King's got themselves back in to the game at 1-1 when a penalty (no complaints) was neatly despatched.

The second half saw us grow in confidence and get more organised as the game went on. King's did battle well today and had a few chances second half but the major difference today was the finishing. We took the lead when a spell of pressure saw a King's defender lose possesion and I slid Dave Broome (nice to see you back Dave-Ed) in to make it 2-1. Dave has been missing for a lot of the season and his return today proved a big boost. Adrian Hunt gave us a 3-1 lead when a foul 25 yards out saw him strike a fantastic free kick in off the cross bar.

King's may feel a little disappointed with the result but our depleted side performed well today and see this as an opportunity to kick start our season! (well until the next snow).

Wolverhampton and Perton Churches 1 Zion Athletic 1

Jallen texted: Without trying to sound like a broken record, we dominated most of the game but once again failed to stretch our lead missing numerous chances in both halves. When you are only one up, it always leaves the opposition the opportunity to get back into the match despite the run of play.

All credit to Wolves, they never gave up and it paid off. Well done Zion, keep your chins up.

Tom Baugh adds: I think I can safely say that Wolves were happy to escape with a point on Saturday after Zion dominated for long periods in this one.

The first half was slightly more end to end, but it was the visitors who deservedly got their noses in front when the ball wasn't properly cleared and Jon Taylor fired home.

I don't know what changed at the interval but Zion were camped in our half for the lion's share of the second half, leaving us chasing shadows with their passing and quick feet. Our defence did well to repel the siege but really the game should have been killed off long before Wolves got back into it. But we eventually did manage to string together a few passes ourselves and immediately threatened. One cross was headed against the bar and then just a few minutes later a ball in from a similar position caused havoc and John Morris poked home the equaliser.

Both teams went for the win; Jon Taylor forcing Uncle Rich into a fine fingertips save and Jason Parmar having a goal disallowed for offside (wrongly in my opinion). I'd like to say a draw was a fair result on the balance of play, but it wasn't. Zion should have won easily.

I'd be surprised if they got relegated, given that they're one of the better sides we've played this season. Good luck to them. I believe we still have to play them again, so hopefully we can give a better account of ourselves in the return fixture.

Division Two

Champions Church 11 Birmingham International 1

The referee from this match, Lee Armstrong phoned me last night to discuss another matter but said that Champions 'battered' Inter with Shawn Devonport and Josh Ball running the show up front.

The result from this and the EK game leaves Champions much stronger favourites for the title and Division One football next year is an inevitability.

Shawn Devonport says: Back with a bang??? First game since 12th December and we were worried when we only had eleven on Friday night and with the lack of games and no training we really thought today we could potentially come unstuck.

It got worse when at kick off our keeper still wasn't there so we started with ten with Lee Ralph in goal. We took the lead when Josh played me in and I dinked over the keeper from an angle and despite still being down to ten men we made it two when we got a free kick for a back pass and I smashed past the crowded line. Our keeper finally arrived and it was soon 3-0 when Rion had the task of tapping into an empty net, Josh Ball then got in on the act when his powerful shot beat the keeper when he should have done better. Jim Wilkes got his first Champions goal to make it 5-0 when he headed in a Lee Ralph free kick and it was 6-0 at half time when Rion slipped me in to round the keeper and make it 6-0 at half time. Inter had a couple of corners but I don't remember a shot of note all half and we could have had more with Josh going close and the keeper rushing out to stop numerous chances with brave blocks.

Second half and Inter shifted a few players and we bought on our first emergency signing. We made it 7-0 when Lee Ralph unleashed a cracker from distance and it was soon eight when Joe Smith got on the end of a fantastic Rion Mills cross. We made it 9-0 when Josh got his second after a defence splitting pass from Rion and then Josh got his Hat trick to make it 10-0 when he showed tremendous strength from another Rion through ball. Inter got one back when the ball cannoned off our keeper onto the striker's jaw and into the back of the net. The scoring was complete when debutant Nathan Fletcher lobbed the keeper and defender from 20 yards out. Inter only had one other chance of note with Dan being forced to tip over a Robert Morgan shot and Inter enjoyed a little more pressure. We could have made it more hitting the woodwork twice and going close on numerous occasions with the Inter keeper having a much better second half.

So a valuable win with EK dropping more points and a fantastic scoreline. Today Inter came up against us when we hit top form, playing some fantastic stuff with Rion Mills on fire with seven assists and a goal with the most complete performance from one player I've seen in a long, long time. Tim Bamber was also brilliant with unbelievable workrate and Josh Ball once again being a handful getting up to 14 for the season now. Inter will hold their hands up and say it wasnt a great day at the office for them with the early goals killing off their fight and they didn't defend greatly at all throughout the 90.

It's Renewal next week who are scraping for points themselves and with EK droppng points against bottom teams the last two weeks we know we need to be up for it and put in a good performance against a team who run us very close earlier in the season.

Kwesi says: Champions got lucky, we'll get them next time...

Dynamo Kingswinford 3 EK Corinthia 1

Dynamo shock WMCFL with a 3-1 win over EK, pretty much unexpected but I think it's been coming. Some of these teams keep getting reportsthat they play alright but just can't find the net: Zion Athletic, Sheldon included. Twenty percent of DK's league goals were scored yesterday.

They've got some very important games coming up during February: Inter next week, on the rebound from their pounding; then Solihull and Chawn, both of whom will want to pick up the win. But if Dynamo can pick up six points from their next three matches, we could have an interesting dash to the line. Like I keep saying, whilst it's three up and three down, every place could be crucial if we have teams joining or leaving.

After being so dominant and convincing, EK seem to have come unstuck this side of Christmas. They were a real threat to Champions' title aspirations at the turn of the year but now may struggle to hold onto second.

Jason Russell says: It's been a long time since I have written a report due to my policy of not commenting on Dynamo Kingswinford losses and let's face it there's been a few of them this season. Before the game in our build out, I said to our players that "I still believe in them and they need to believe in themselves". I didn't realise that this would affect us as much has it did.

Today's game pitched us against second placed EK, a gritty and determined team pushing for promotion against DK, battered and bruised from a challenging season to say the least. Despite our league position and stats, we had 17 players with two stood down. Despite where we are, we still have commitment and I am so impressed by the squad and their attitude.

The game was probably our best this season, there was real determination from the offset. We started with real fire with snappy challenges in midfield and the with movement and pace upfront, we didn't allow EK to settle. We took the lead within five minutes from a scrambled goal from Chris Sweetmore, who by his own admission hasn't hit the form he aspires to this season but he still battles on and will cause havoc in any defence.

We dominated for long periods of the first half and had plenty of chances to improve the score-line with our defence keeping out the limited number of attacks from EK and reducing them to distance shots, so it was a real surprise that they managed an equaliser on 36 minutes. The goal was well taken and we were all square. This is a position I have seen us in before many times and wondered how we would respond.

Our response was surprising as we continued to play football and our midfield who were immense today bossed and fought for every ball. It wasn't long before we found ourselves in front again with a sweet strike from Scott Bradley who all season has been real quality and class. At half time we were 2-1 up and well deserved.

We knew the next goal would be important and I was delighted that we managed to get it: A well worked move finished off by Rob Waddams with a simple tap in. In Rob, we have a sleeping giant, and I am looking forward to him reaching the potential that he has over the next couple of seasons.

Special praise needs to heaped on the squad today, each and everyone played with the passion and commitment that DK is and is based on. Andy Waddams was real class this game and was a real inspiration. Our defence led by the old warrior Gary Lamsdale with the youthful Dave Trask and Ross Hodgkins dealt with everything that EK had in their locker and Dave Abel was also instrumental. Its been a long time since I have seen our squad the way they were in dressing room. DK tasted victory today and I hope that the squad look to take this experience and push on further to the level that they can reach and we aspire too. With the addition of a couple of new dynamic signings despite our league position, I'm excited for the future of DKFC.

EK will bounce back I'm sure of it, you don't get to the top two of this division without having something special. As for us, we will take each game as it comes and savour this win (doubling our points tally for the season). We have no expectations and no pressure and will continue to focus on us and not whats going on around us.

Lighthouse Lions 4 MBD United 3

Adam Elcock celebrated his eighteenth birthday with a hat-trick, a win for Lighthouse and joining Pete Major at the top of this season's top scorers for the whole league. Happy Birthday Adam.

The whole side will be pleased with the result, another tight win by the odd goal in seven against one of their promotion rivals, MBD. Whilst MBD slipped down to fourth, they are probably favourites for fourth place.

Rowley College 4 Bournbrook Athletic 2

Max Tully reports for Bournbrook: Today was a tough game for us with only eleven men: a task made even harder when our centre back was injured in the warm up and effectively had to stand up front. With the pitch a state, liquid football was never an option however both teams played some nice stuff in parts and that’s credit to both teams.

Rowley took the lead twice with us bringing it level both times with a very rare header from Tubz and a good strike from Walter. Rowley then took the lead for a third time, we looked to be equalising once again however our injured player up front could do little despite being presented an open goal. Rowley then killed the game with an own goal fourth and although our heads did not drop they saw the game out comfortably.

Rowley are a strong team all over the pitch and on balance deserved the win today despite the odd glimmer from us. All in all we were strong through the middle and great to see Dean O’Leary back on the wings troubling full backs. We have the reverse fixture next week, hopefully we will have a bigger squad and can get the win. Home advantage could prove vital.

Pete Bennett adds: Having had that rare amateur football experience, the luxury of playing the same starting eleven in two consecutive games we were in a good position to see how even this league is, as this was just as hard-fought a victory as against the second place team a fortnight ago. I’ve read Ed’s reports on the potential of Bournbrook from the start of the season and, despite fielding a bare eleven they didn’t disappoint. They have quality players across their team and next week’s rematch will, I’m sure be just as close.

Today we showed commitment and resilience, if not quite the spark of the EK game, but had no relaxation until the 88th minute when we scored our fourth. A few minutes earlier Bournbrook had spurned a great chance to finish it 3-3 (and there would have been no complaints). We won the game because we had a little more nous (and a lot more experience!) and we now have a team rather than just talented individuals. At the centre of it today was Mark Southall, who has been picking the side this season, but today was very much back to where he operates best in the centre of the park. It was he who created the first goal, against the run of play. The excellent Joe McVenna won one of innumerable important tackles and then South showed a bit of quality and slotted a dangerous pass across the box for Nathan Hylton to rocket it in (a really spectacular goal).

This should have settled us but Bournbrook came back at us and we conceded a sloppy goal from a corner. They certainly deserved it. They made us hurry the whole half and the talk at half time was about taking our time and keeping the ball. The second half started better but their keeper is good quality and their centre backs were brave and committed. Mind you our forwards aren’t bad: both Nathan Wilkins and Christie McKenzie were causing problems and it was Christie who poked in his 4th goal in three for us mid way through the half. Again we should have been settled with our skipper Chris McIvor working tirelessly in our cause and Hylton and Christie offering plenty of threat. These boys don’t lie down though and prompted by their number 7 (a classy act) they struck again with twenty left.

It was then anybody’s and I was glad that skill rather than a mistake decided it. Christie was starting to enjoy himself and it was his magic feet that took him past two defenders to cross for Nathan Wilkins to bravely squeeze in a header. Wilkins then claimed a second when his cross/shot went in off their defender. Excellent also today from referee Martin Cook who kept the game flowing and was always in charge: cheers Mart!

Chawn Hill Church 1 Renewal Solihull 2

Renewal beat Chawn in a very tight game down at South Road to really mix things up at the bottom of Division Two. At the Christmas break, Chawn seemed to be the side on the up and looking like they'd avoid relegation but this result drags them right back into it and Rowley look more likely to draw themselves away.

Renewal did their chances a power of good with the three points but they are far from out of the woods yet.

Division Three

Junction Ten Village 3 St John's Church 2

Junction Ten squeeze a win from one of their promotion rivals, St John's Church and take over the lead of Division Three again; for now...Adam Wall reports: Well it was nice to get back to playing after a nine week lay off because of the weather and Christmas. Typically after all that time it was title six-pointer first up.

Junction Ten started very brightly scoring twice in the first 20 minutes. The first was finished well when the front man was clean through but second was a big goalkeeping mistake. But instead of folding like the reverse fixture St John's fought back flying into challenges and winning the ball at every opportunity. The half did finish 2-0 but St John's had hit the bar through Stuart Rogers. In the second half St John's continued to push J10 and came close to a response when Adam Wall raced through but fired straight at the keeper. Soon after St John's had their reward when Adam Wall fired goalwards only for the keeper to parry out to Ash Hamer he in turn mis-hit (unusual for him-Ed) his rebound into the centre half rebounding the ball into the net.

As St.Johns pushed for a equaliser J10 broke away and were rewarded a penalty. I really feel it was a harsh decsion and I think most of the players felt it wasn't a penalty. Saying that well done to St John's lads for not questioning or harrassing the referee despite how they felt. I feel I also have to say that the referee was good all day in general. Once again no giving up in the St John's side replying instantly through subsitute Jon Holmes, when he poked a long free kick home. With full time looming another set piece for St. Johns fell to Jamie Lawrie only for him to shin roll tamely into the keeper arms. Full Time 3-2.

Rockmount United 5 Zion City 2

Rockmount are up to third (apologies for the initial inaccurate update) with a 5-2 win over mid-table Zion City. Rockmount have played quite a few more matches than those around them but points in the bag are points in the bag. For Zion, they are letting get away and Sandwell catch them.

Sporting Zion 4 Living Hope Church 0

A convincing result for Sporting keeps them in the hunt for promotion and Living Hope still looking for their first ever win. With Junction Ten and DC to play, it may not be this month but with All Nations managing to beat J10, you never know.

All Nations 1 Brierley Hill AOG 3

Jon Bennett says: A good game played on a pitch with some sticky areas but we were all so desperate to play a game of football that I don't think anyone minded.

The first half involved a lot of huff and puff from both teams with the extended Christmas break perhaps showing as most players lacked a sharpness you may expect at this stage of the season. Brierley Hill created more of the chances with the All Nations keeper denying Mike Tyler on a number of occasions.

Brierley Hill began the second half slowly, which allowed All Nations to score from a well worked move with the ball finding its way into the bottom left corner of Matt Welsh's net.

This proved to be the catalyst for the Hill who finally started to play some football. Aquickly taken free kick over All Nations' defence found Sam Wakelam who superbly dispatched a half volley into the roof of the net. This was quickly followed by a goal of the season contender from Chris Jones. A clearance found Chris who hit the ball first time with his left foot from forty yards to lob the All Nations keeper into the top right jand corner. The keeper was having such an excellent game that it took something special to beat him. Chris was so surprised that his strike went in that his celebrations were somewhat muted.

All Nations continued to press and created chances, a thirty yard thunderbolt which rattled the frame of the goal reminded the Hill that the game was far from won. Brierley Hill continued to try and play some football with Mike Tyler having a one on one chance saved after a superb through ball from the excellent Neil A. Walters who had an great game on the left wing.

As players tired on the heavy pitch the game became streched but Ian Baker and Carl Wakelam lead the back line excellently to restrict chances, at the other end Mike Tyler scored a clever near post finish after a battling run into the box to deservedly get his name onto the score sheet after a fantastic centre forward performance.

After falling behind we were glad to have shown the mental strength to battle back to get a result, both teams are having their best seasons for a long while and after playing All Nations yesterday I'm sure they will continue to pick up points.

For the Hill, mid table security is almost a certainty, onwards and upwards!

Pye Green Towers 1 Sandwell United 3

Myles Wilson says: Sandwell United played well today against Pye Green. We starting off very well and continued to play good football through the first half. We should have scored around four by half time, but for good goal-keeping the score sheet was still blank when the ref blew for the interval. Pye Green had a couple of chances to open the scoring but they were met by good saves too.

As the second half continued, it felt like one of those matches that you have all the play but do not score, then the opposition nick a goal. And that's exactly what happened. It came from a corner that wasn't cleared properly, their player knocked the ball back in to the six yard box and the ball hit a few players on the way to the keeper. Our keeper thought he had knocked the ball out of play but unfortunately one of their players ran in and was able to tap it in to the net unchallenged.

We fought back and from a good cross from Krew that went over keeper's head and our joint top goalscorer Robert Gill headed it home to bring the scores level. We started taking control of the game again. The next goal started from a good tackle in midfield that was passed to the right wing that came across the top of the 18 yard box to Matthew Hammond who passed the ball to Theo Fortune between two of their players. Theo Fortune calmly slid the ball past their keeper to make it 2-1. Our final goal came from a very good shot by Matthew Hammond from the edge of the 18 yard box that went in at bottom right hand corner of the net.

After this Pye Green had a few attacks on goal but our defence played excellently to keep them out as did the rest of the team.

Fixtures

After a meteorologically imposed winter break, we finally seem to have some sense of order returning with all yesterday's games going ahead. I have had the latest fixtures update from Shawn with 32 further alterations which I have updated on the site. He has now issued 38 updates containing over 200 amendments. Several games have been shuffled around to try and get as many games played as early as possible, so have a look through and make note of any changes. If you spot any errors, please let me know. We have started to see a few appear as night games, which with how things have been, was inevitable.

A handful of games have been scheduled for Easter Saturday, which we also were hoping to avoid but the Genius of the Weather decided otherwise.

Saturday Preview Continued

I hope some of these games get played, now that I've spent all this time writing a preview. A quick flick through the BBC Weather Forecast suggests that there'll be no frost but going into next week we are back to freezing temperatures and light snow. Marvellous.

Division Three

Back on 7 November, it seems so long ago, there was a minor debate concerning how many Junction Ten scored against St John's Church. I won't embarrass them by saying how many but suffice to say, St John's would like to win this one on Saturday. Their pride was dented but I think they need to put that issue aside and concentrate on winning the match for this reason: If they win then they'll be just three points adrift and a game in hand.

A win for St John's would play into the hands of DC and put them in the driving seat. A win for Junction Ten would mean that the lead of Division Three would change once again. Whilst I think that the November result was a blip, I still think Junction Ten will win but by a narrower margin.

In fourth, Rockmount hope to keep their promotion push on track with three points against Zion City. A win for Zion at the week-end means that they could catch Rockmount if they win all their games in hand. I still think we'll see a home win.

Sporting Zion will be hoping for an 'easy' win at home to bottom club Living Hope. I think Living Hope are due a slice of luck but perhaps not this week. Sporting have their sights firmly set on instant promotion and there may be more than three promoted, so I'm sure they'll be fully focussed. I think they will take the points.

Brierley Hill, having their best season for a long while, travel to All Nations, who are just having their best season. I think Brierley Hill will record win number seven. And lastly Pye Green take on Sandwell. I should say last but not least as the reverse fixture ended 6-5. These two sides seem to be enjoying their football this season, even if at times they have been on the wrong end of results. Sandwell had a good run before Christmas and I think they will take the momentum into 2010.

Have fun this week-end lads, I hope all the games will go ahead.

Saturday Preview Continued

Division Two

Some really big games this week-end in Division Two: Champions Church can take a step closer to Division One football if they beat Birmingham International on Saturday. However, Inter have their own agenda: A defeat will put a dent in their promotion hopes, letting Lighthouse and MBD get closer or even overtake but a win would put pressure on Selly Oak. The corresponding fixture earlier in the year saw Champions drop points for the first time as the teams drew 0-0 but I think Champions will win.

EK Corinthia can and should put the defeat to Rowley behind them as they visit Dynamo Kingswinford. Here's one significant statistic: EK are the division's top scorers and Dynamo have scored the fewest. You'd have to back EK to win but after their Rowley match perhaps DK will see a chink and go for it. Despite their form, I'm still backing them to get a result or two before the season is out.

Apart from the DK/EK game, the games in Division Two are between clubs close to each other in the table. And so it is between Lighthouse and MBD; they're in fifth and sixth. MBD need to make this one count if they are to worry the top three but I think Lighthouse have left it a bit late to challenge for a top three spot. As it's at Lighthouse, I think they stand a better chance of winning but with MBD you never know: They'll either win 6-0 or lose 6-0.

Just three points separate Chawn, Rowley, Bournbrook and Renewal. All four sides can state their credentials with pride: Chawn with their history and the fact that they knocked seven past Division One St Thomas, Rowley beat EK 1-0 ten days ago, Bournbrook knocked eight past MBD to secure second place in last year's Division Three and Renewal have the last man to score a hat-trick against Man United at Old Trafford in their side.

Rowley v Bournbrook: The form book says that Rowley will win this one. Perhaps they have finally settled as a side after their close season refurbishments? We will see come 12:30 on Saturday afternoon. Bournrbrook could do with three points; they've only won three of their eleven games but they have a game or two in hand over their relelgation rivals.

Chawn Hill v Renewal Solihull Chawn can move away from the bottom three with a win at home to Renewal. In fact, if Rowley and Chawn win, there will be a considerable gap between them and Bournbrook and Solihull. I think that's what's going to happen.

Saturday Preview Continued

Division One

With the 'bigger' teams ensconced in Cup activities, the remaining matches have a decidedly 'bottom half of the table' feel to them.

Sheldon v St Thomas is a match between the bottom two teams. If there are going to be casualties to the wet weather, then Saltley Leisure Centre is quite often included. But if it goes ahead, Sheldon have a chance to close the gap on St Thomas to four points. I know I keep saying it but St Thomas need to win this one if they are to escape the bottom three. Both sides play good football and compete in their games but I fancy St Thomas to win.

Wolves and Perton v Zion Athletic Zion who are third from bottom visit Wolves and Perton. Another good side but have struggled to get the ball into the net; they won't find it easy against a tough Wolves team. If Wolves win, the gap between them and the top of Division One will be a slim four points. I'm backing a home win in this one.

St Matthew's v King's AFC King's have a marginal points advantage at this point in time over this week's opposition, St Matthew's. St Matt's could do with taking the points on Saturday; failure to do so could mean they are dragged into the melee at the bottom of the table. A win would move them mid-table for the time being. I reckon a draw is on the cards.

Saturday Preview

Despite the snow today, I think we may be looking at a warmer week and potentially some football played this coming week-end. Shawn assures me that so far 193 matches have been put back for one reason or another. This does include all games that have been called off, whatever the reason: the weather, abandonments due to injury and matches that have been postponed by clubs. So I'd say it's the worst season ever in terms of volume of matches lost.

League Cup Quarter-Finals

This season the bottom half of the draw was heavily loaded with clubs more fancied to win: Clarendon, St Mary's and most of the other Division One teams. As it turns out, the two top Division Two sides were in that half of the draw too. So it's not altogether surprising to see the first match between two Division Three sides: Common Ground United and DC Dynamos.

Common Ground are having a good first season and look poised to finish well inside the top half of the table. The league may expand again next year, so like last season there's a chance the more than three teams will get promoted. CGU have had a slightly fortuitous route to the last eight, inasmuch as they did not play in the First Round and then received a bye in Round Two, taking advantage of Walsall's demise. They then needed extra time to dispose of fellow Division Threers Zion City.

DC's path to the quarters has been emphatically trod, hammering a 12-0 result against All Nations and then punching league leader's Amblecote's nose 2-1 in the last sixteen. DC currently lead Division Three and are looking like they belong in a higher division. I expect them to win the match this week-end but you never know, the teams drew 3-3 earlier in the year. Common Ground are one of only two sides against whom DC have failed to win.

St Boniface v Selly Oak Methodist This one is a very hard match to pick a winner. Neither team have been totally convincing in the league, although St Boniface have played the top teams twice and managed to beat Clarendon 3-2 on 12 December. Selly Oak have their own scalp to crow about: The first team to beat Champions Church in the league. If the full first team from Selly Oak turn up, then I am going to give them the slight edge but this one an ideal game of football: Two even matched teams.

City Church v St Mary's A real corker this one and in my eyes, the tie of the round. I think City have pretty much blown their chances of the league, although I'm sure they'll be pleased with their continuing progress. However, they are just one point behind the top two. Perhaps if there was just one club in front of them, then the odds would be shorter but I can't see both Clarendon and St Mary's blowing the title. So I think City will be a match for St Mary's as they will have set their sights on the Cup route for silverware.

Clarendon v Halesowen Zion An intriguing fixture sees two the top First Division sides pitted against each other. Halesowen came quite close to beating Clarendon earlier in the season and will fancy their chances again. Clarendon are looking a little more vunerable these days, although Pablo is back in the side now. I think Clarendon will win but not without a fight.

So I'm going for DC, Selly Oak, City and Clarendon.

January 2010 - The month that barely was

Another deeply frustrating day for parks' football yesterday as we saw another complete freeze-out. We had the potential to play eighty-five games in January and just seven were completed in this frost-bound month. It has snowed a bit here over night and there's a hard frost, so I'm doubtful if my lad's game will go ahead a bit later. He has played once since 22 November.

Kwesi from Inter asked if it was a record. Well I'm not sure how to quantify the records, but 2000/1 was at least as bad when we had a long spell of heavy rain. I was the fixtures secretary that season and I know that we had well over 100 games called off. The season was completed on 19 May with Chawn Hill winning the league with a 4-1 over second placed Walsall Olympic. They won't win the league or even Division Two this season but they had a good day yesterday beating St Thomas' yesterday 7-1, with Jamie Sutton scoring a double hat-trick. Kevin Walters scored the other from the penalty spot.

I sincerely hope that we get a full programme under way next week, particularly as it's the League Cup semi-finals. Heavy snow was forecast for Wednesday but that has now changed to heavy rain for mid-week. At present, we are still looking at a 1 May finish, with just Clarendon running out of Saturdays. But even they will be able to play all their games on Saturday mornings if they get knocked out of the Cup next week. The April is still looking fairly sparse but I suspect that we will be busy. The secondary cup is looking less and less likely the longer this goes on. But we will continue to monitor the situation. The clubs with the fewest games to play: Chawn, Renewal etc. have seven matches left by my calculation. That should mean that they will still be engaged pretty much through March. I've had three fairly strong enquiries from clubs looking to join next season, so perhaps there'll be opportunities to play friendlies for those sides who have run out of games.

Christmas Review and Predictions

Tin hat at the ready and bunker down. Once I press the upload button, I'm going into hiding until spring. Good luck to you all for the second half of the season, when it happens! It looks like we are going to have a fascinating run-in with all three divisions wide open:

Ed's Mid-Season Predictions 2009/10

Ed's Pre-Season Predictions

I've been gradually writing my predictions over the past few weeks, taking note of what player changes I've heard about and factoring friendly results. I managed to finish them last week and was ready to publish and then we had a raft of friendly results and the Kevin Kovacs trophy.

I'll be honest, I thought St Mary's were going to be turned over by Clarendon yesterday. I thought City would start with a bang but have not turned in any results (that I know of) pre-season. I thought Dynamo would struggle this year, basing my rationale on their lack of goals; then I hear Chris Sweetmore is back and Neil Hambly played for them yesterday.

EK seemed to be getting pounded pre-season, then they beat Division One ZIon Athletic, albeit narrowly yesterday. I hear that St John's were heavily beaten yesterday too. So, most of what I have written appears to have been blown out of the water. I was going to revamp the lot, then I thought 'forget it, I'll put the page up anyway'.

So, by popular appeal, you can click here to read how I think everyone's going to do.

Ed's Pre-Season Predictions 2009/10