Ed's 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-seaon, 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

Secretaries

Please note that the new Match Report forms are available in the Information section of the site. Click on Information and then Forms. I have loaded two different forms, those with standard numbers or if some of your players use unconventional shirt numbers, there's a form with blank numbers. Neil Kovacs will provide you with sufficient forms for the season but if you run out, you can print your own.

Please ensure you get your completed form to the referee, with two footballs and the fee before the kick-off.

Also please note: There is a league meeting this Friday evening at Zion Christian Centre, 7.30 kick-off.

Kevin Kovacs Memorial Trophy

St Mary's 2 Clarendon 0

Congratulations to St Mary's who collect the Kevin Kovacs Memorial Trophy for the third time in three years. It's not easy to win major trophies three years on the bounce and to say that you either have to win the Cup or League to qualify for the game makes it even more of an achievement.

Nick Sprason says: A good all round display but there is plenty more to come from us.

Friendlies

St Boniface 10 Pye Green Towers 2

Pye Green's Dave Spencer says: Having already played St Boniface, we knew that today wasn't going to be anything like an easy ride. St Boniface passed the ball round well and were eager to set up chances for themselves causing loads of problems for our defence. Subsequently we let in ten goals. On the plus we were able to have a number of shots and captain Gaz Darby knocked two away for us.

All credit to St Boniface who played a high spirited easy going game that has got us in the mood for our debut season in WMCFL.

EK Corinthia 6 Zion Athletic 4

Chris Morrison reports: A superb result today, just ready for the season. A mixed pre-season: Two losses, one draw and one win but today was what it was all about.

EK took the lead early on from a great strike from Matt Dormer a really great new signing! Zion came back and from two set pieces went two up. EK felt positive during the break and came out and made it 2-2, again a great free kick from Matt. Zion then took a 4-2 lead but after that EK went up a gear.

The new signings working well together. It wasn't long before EK were 5-4 up but then Zion got a pen in injury time. Brilliantly saved by our new keeper Mark. EK then went down and scored the sixth, hat-trick from Matt Dormer but I think one the keeper will want to forget. Excellent result against in my opinion one the best footballing sides in the league.

Jallen adds: EK played well today but I think we gave them the game. We were 4-2 up part way into the second half, with a combination of poor keeping, lack of fitness, a missed penalty and good EK play leading to the final score-line.

If EK can keep the new lads, they'll be up there in Division Two. Well done.

Halesowen Zion 0 MBD United 3

Grant Doran reports: After the summer off and all the pre-season training it was nice to get back to the actual point of it all and have a game. Despite missing seven players we had two new lads making their first appearance in the WMCFL. We started brightly and played some nice football with several good chances created. The majority of the game was taking place in the centre of the pitch with both teams looking to play football. Half time 0-0

In the second half MBD started well and the extra friendly games they have played showed as they looked fresh and started to get some clear chances. There first goal came after their forward rounded Si in Halesowen's goal and slid the ball towards goal. Dave Atton had got back to the line but managed to get himself nutmegged and the ball rolled over the line. With only one sub available Zion started to look a little bit leggy and MBD started to take control of the game. Despite this, their second had a slice of luck as a cross from the right looped up and over Si and into the net. The football was now coming from MBD and the third goal when it came was no surprise. However it had another slice of luck as a fairly routine shot went through Si in our goal and just had enough momentum to make it into the net.

Over all a good work out for the Zion lads and a deserved win for MBD.

DC Dynamos 2 Sporting Zion 0

Mark Crouch says: A nice day for a game and today saw DC take on Sporting in a hastily put together match with both teams down to the bare bones. It says something when I get a run out for 75 minutes.

The first half was a very even contest with both teams creating plenty down the wings and through the middle with nice passes but were both found wanting with the final ball. Although Dean Cole did hit a post after some good play and quick feet. 0-0 half time.

The second half saw both teams playing good quick passing and moving football but it was DC who took the lead. It started by a tackle from me, then the ball fell to Jon Murphy who lofted a ball to the feet of James Cole and some good interchanging play between Onk Bradshaw and James Cole saw Onk tuck the ball away to make it 1-0.

Ten minutes later Mark Crouch was unlucky not to score as a decent header went just wide from a great Clint Dudson cross. Soon though it was 2-0 as a great floated corner saw Steve Burford run in and meet the ball with a wonderful and brave diving header. Sporting had a couple of chances but mostly shots from well outside the area. We played well today lads and deserved the win. Final score 2-0.We kept out shape well and battled to the final minute encouraging to the end.

Man of match Steve Burford who capped his display with a good goal. Well done son. Back four were solid and the midfield battled well laying the ball off at every opportunity.

Nice bunch of lads Sporting and we will see you in two weeks when I am sure we will enjoy another hard game. God bless you

Champions Church 2 Wolves and Perton 0

Shawn Devonport reports: We thought we had a full sixteen today but a few people dropped out on the morning leaving us with just two subs. Wolves did turn up with only eleven and were three short by my reckoning from last time we played them so were not at full strength as I guess is to be expected on Bank Holiday weekend.

The game by all accounts and I'm sure Perton would agree was very one sided with Richard in the Perton goal making numerous class saves, two cleared of the line and myself and Mark Goule being very wasteful infront of goal contributed to the scoreline being only 2-0. We had two goals disallowed late on a swell with one both us and Perton agreeing was a legitamate goal but you just get on with it and carry on!

The goals came from Rion Mills who was superb and myself after a miscommunication at the back allowed me in after a hopeful long ball from Rion. Perton didn't have a shot on target and if my maths is correct they had 4 chances which all just fizzed wide from distance and one header which went narrowly over from a good delivery from the wing.

The guys at the back were immense today and Rob, Greg and Jim continue their fantastic pre-season form and Ashley who filled in at Left Back had his best game in Champions Church colours and were all contenders for man of the match. Dan Geatrax also played in goal and impressed today with the little he had to deal with. All in all a good run out for us and I'm sure when Wolves and Perton get there full allocation of lads out they will be competative in Division One next season. Roll on next week!

Rich Webster adds: We were disappointed today, where Champions dominated for long periods. They stretched our scratch side who couldn't manage a decent goal threat. Hopefull the return of our missing players will improve our play next week.

Sheldon 2 City Church 2

A tight game played last Thrusday night saw the two Division One teams share the honours in a two-all draw.

Sheldon 3 Lighthouse Lions 1

Sheldon's website says: What a difference a week makes!! Another fantastic all round performance today with some excellent team goals and individual display. With the league a week away, this was the ideal preparation.

Selly Oak Methodist 8 St John's 1

A big win for Selly Oak going into the league campaign.

Dynamo Kingswinford 2 Living Hope Church 0

DK's Jason Russell reports: This was our last friendly before our season commences next week away at Rowley. After last week's result it was difficult to judge how we would respond. Eight players out again this week due to hols and injuries. We started with three subs, a first for about a year but lessons we needed to learn from our last season's fall from grace. During close season we have added quality players and today it was evident. The training we have been putting in showed that we can enter this new season and make a real challenge.

The game itself was a game of two halves. In the first period we had loads of possession and created a wealth of opportunities but Living Hope should not be under estimated as they held their own up to half time.

The second half our experience showed with our flowing football (yes in patches) and we broke the deadlock with a real poacher's goal from the experienced Neil Hambly. From then on it was only a matter time before we scored again and this time it fell to Chris Sweetmore. Yes, the Sweets is back from his couple of years away down the pits in Stoke. This really showed as his fitness and movement were difficult to track. Everyone of our players showed just how far we have come as a team. And it one played their part to enable us to create the space to shoot on goal. We had around 20 to 30 shots on goal (including a real howitzer from David Abel), that was more than the total of last season. In summary we have some work to do but the squad we have built, blends youth and experience and with this win today our confidence was lifted and surprisingly the dressing room has changed from last season from only winning one game in the league all season. Our Man of the Match was Scott Bradley.

A big thank you goes to Living Hope for a real competitive but fair game. They will do very well this season.

St Thomas 4 Junction Ten Village 0

St Thomas' Marc Buller says: Just a quick report from yesterday’s game: We entertained Junction Ten in our last pre season friendly before the big kick off next week. We really needed a win after playing well all pre-season without the results to match and that’s exactly what we got.

The game itself started quite evenly with both teams creating chances but failing to put them away. Junction Ten have got a few nice players who like to get the ball down and play football while also liking to get stuck in when they haven’t. We gave them to much time on the ball in the first 30 minutes which we nearly paid for but I always thought we looked the most likely to score. The eventually came towards the end of the first half after some good work by Ash Thorpe allowed Mark Hadden to tap the ball in to make it 1-0.

As the second half started we began to take control and assert our influence on the game. We created a lot more chances and the pressure finally paid off when we were awarded a penalty which Mark Hadden put away. Junction Ten came back into the game creating a number of opportunities but could not find a way past our keeper Rob Wood who had a great game. We then scored our third goal after a break down the right hand side allowed Marc Buller to slot the ball past the keeper. Junction Ten had a couple of more chances but we kept working to the end and were rewarded with a fourth goal courtesy of a fantastic 30 yard drive from Rich Morley hit the underside of the bar and allowed Mark Hadden to tap the ball in.

Overall we should all be impressed with how we played and this result puts us in great shape for the start of the season. Junction Ten should also have a great season, full of good players that want to play football I can see them winning their division.

Thanks to them for a great game.

Chawn Hill Church 6 Rowley College 2

Chawn's Paul Taylor writes: This was a really good game to watch with plenty of goal mouth action and talking points. Chawn started strong and earned a penalty kick which was a result of a good passing move. The spot kick was smashed home by Hovis.

Unfortunetly this was un-done by a defensive error which presented Rowley with a penalty kick which allowed rowley to draw level. Chawn continued to be the stonger side and a brace of goals from Greg Jones and Hovis adding his second gave a half-time score of 4-1.

Rowley started the second half more positively and scored their second from a corner shortly after the re-start. Chawn regained their three goal advantage as Crouch headed in a corner. The best was saved for last for Chaun as Scott unleashed a un-stoppable 20yd strike from an almost impossible angle.

T his was a good solid performance from Chawn where all the players involved were a credit to themselves and are keen to start the season next week with a full complemention of players.

S pecial thanks to Neil Kovacs for refereeing the game.

Ed says: Best wishes to Paul, who is recovering from major knee surgery.

Birmingham International 4 Common Ground United 2

Kwesi Okanta-Ofori says: We had a friendly on Saturday with Common Ground. They're a good team and should do well in the third this season. We won 4-2, but both teams could have added to their tallies. Looking for a game on Wednesday evening, 1900 at Moor Lane, Perry Barr if anyone's interested (it'll be free)...

Kevin Kovacs Memorial Trophy

I did want to include a preview of the KK Memorial Trophy yesterday but out of respect to Adam, I left it off. However, Kevin was also taken from us having suffered from leukaemia too, so in a way it is a dignified and fitting reminder.

I had mooted earlier in the year about the League being linked either permanently or for a season, to a specific charity. It would take a special effort for someone to be a co-ordinator. But perhaps Leukaemia Research would be a good start?

So the match: And it feels a little glib to be talking about football. The KKMT was devised in a similar format to the Charity or Community Shield, in that the League Champions and Cup winners would take each other on in a curtain raiser for the season. Just of late, WMCFL has been dominated by two clubs: St Mary's and Clarendon, with the two of them swapping trophies.

Both teams have made changes to their sides, some enforced by people leaving and others by players joining, tempted by the smell of the Brasso no doubt. Clarendon signed off last season with a convincing demolition of a St Mary's side that had ran out off puff by the time of the Cup Final. The Aldridge lads have not been convincing in pre-season either. Clarendon appeared to finish the year on a high and very strongly, despite missing out on the title. They have at times, lost their way a little after undergoing close-season changes, especially at the start of last season.

So, I perhaps will tentatively suggest that Clarendon will add another trophy to their bulging cabinet. Whatever the result, you have two sets of gentlemen contesting a trophy at the top of what is becoming a well-respected and burgeoning league.

Have a great game lads and remember what this game is about.

Adam Earp 1988-2009

It is with great sadness that I have to inform you all that Tracey Earp's son Adam, lost his fight for life last night. He was just twenty: A tragedy.

Adam had successfully fought off leukaemia over the past twelve months and seemed to be on the mend. But recently, he contracted a lung disease as a result of the treatment.

We are all very shocked at the suddeness of his death and hope you will remember his family, friends and team-mates in your thoughts and prayers as they come to terms with the news.

We are suggesting that all matches observe a minute's silence, if you feel it appropriate, on 5 September as a mark of respect to Adam who played in WMCFL until he was ill.

Champions Church 4 Amblecote 3

Shawn Devonport reports: Tonight it was the good bad and ugly from Champions Church. We raced out the blocks and looked like we may run away with it going 2-0 up from scrambles that were finished with Rion Mills and Greg Thomspon getting the goals. We continued to dominate until 25 minutes when the match totally changed. We became sloppy and lost our high tempo and Amblecote started to play, knocking the ball around well and creating the chances. They then got two quick goals before the break and we went in at half time 2-2 with Tim Fellows being given space to stroke in a volley and the lively Dozza being first to react to a rebound.

Second half and we had to change things about with myself and Rion going ito centre midfield (a first ever for me) and having four different centre back partnerships by the end of the match. The second half was fairly even with Amblecote having more of the play and opportunities but on the break we were always dangerous and had the better of the chances. We made it 3-2 when I slid in Josh Ball but it was soon 3-3 when Tim Fellows got his second after a fine one-two and a crisp left foot finish. We won it with 10 to go when Colin Brookes slipped in Josh Ball and he produced another calm finish to win it, Josh was fantastic again tonight and will get goals next year.

Thanks to Amblecote for the game, which they didn't really deserve to lose, as with most midweek games we both had players missing. We were missing Jim Wilkes, Joe Smith, Wally and Dave Oakley, especially missing the older and calmer heads of Dave and Jim. Amblecote only had 11 at the start (you are only allowed 11-Ed) with another few turning up and I know they were missing a few key lads so hard to judge on this match really.

For us thats six out of six in pre season beating three Division One teams in three attempts bagging 15 goals. It's Wolves and Perton this Saturday and then the big kick off where all of pre season goes out the window and the real fun starts. The league looks in real good shape with three strong divisions and I'm sure its going to be the best season yet for the league.

Just a quick mention to Tim Fellows who was my man of the match by a mile tonight. Everything came through him and he will be a big player for Amblecote this year if they use him well and keep him fit, he is still class. Best of luck to Ambecote for the season!!

St Mary's 3 St Thomas Aldridge 3

John Myatt says: St Mary's drew 3-3 with St Thomas this evening. We should have been clear by half time but only managed two goals with some rusty finishing. Mark Hadden was left clear through for St Thomas by a shocking back-pass; something you never want to see to make it 2-1 at half time.

We changed things around during the interval but St Thomas came out stronger. We gradually sorted ourselves out and got back into it and went 3-1 up with a penalty. We finally started playing some nice football. St Ts kept going and grabbed two in the last five minutes as we wound down.

I would say that they've definately improved since last year but in a proper game we would have done better.

Marc Buller from St Thomas' adds: We knew we were in for a tough game against a good side last night and after our performances last season against them, we wanted to make sure the outcome was different.

Missing one or two key players, we really struggled to get into the game and invited St Mary's onto us for large sustained periods of pressure with the occasional counter attack by ourselves. St Mary's then took the lead after some confusion in our back and capitalised on a error, something too often seen this pre-season. We started to get our feet more into the game creating more chances and playing the ball around better. St Mary's always looked dangerous on the break with the pace of the front two and got their second goal again after more confusion in our box. After the second goal went in we lifted our heads and started to get into the game a lot more and for the last 15 minutes of the half I thought we were the stronger team. We scored just before the break after a rare mistake by the St Mary's captain let Mark Hadden in to score again for us this pre-season.Since re-joining us he looks like he's going to be a major player who will score plenty for us this year; something we were lacking last season.

After the break things continued as they left off, both teams playing good football but I think St Thomas were just shading it creating more of the chances especially with the introduction of Matt Brady and Ash Thorpe who both had good games. We then had a very dubious goal not given after it looked like it might have crossed the line but we continued to look bright. The game was pretty even up until St Mary's won a penalty which Nick Sprason put away to make it 3-1. We then really upped our game and didn't give in, after some neat work from Matt Brady and a sublime finish we were back in it at 3-2 with 6 minutes to go. We continued to battle to the end and eventually scored the equaliser after Mark Hadden lifted the ball over the on coming keeper.

Overall it was pretty good game of football between two decent teams, St Mary's will defiantly be up there come the end of the season. For St Thomas though I think we've got be proud on how far we've come in the last 9 months. If we carry on playing like we are and cut out the mistakes at the back we will have a good season. Just one game to go now lets end with a win!

Marc Roadway also says: It took St Thomas 25 plus minutes to "windup" in this game and found ourselves 2-0 down to St Mary's. Both goals coming from sloppy defending as opposed to clinical finishing. We were a bit lucky with our first goal on more sloppy defending with a poor back pass from the St Mary's defence.

A dubious penalty decision in my opinion as I gave it away! put us 3-1 behind. We had played some good football in the second half and it was perhaps not deserved to be 3-1 down. We then pulled it back to 3-2 with a great individual effort from Matt Brady, beating at least three players and then curling in into the far post. Another good finish from Mark Hadden lobbing the keeper pulled it back to 3-3 with five minutes to go. Football is game of 90 minutes and this was a game of St Thomas not starting well, St Mary's capitalising. St Mary's not ending the game well and St Thomas capitalising. The football in between was of the same quality from both sides.

Junction Ten Village 9 Zion City 2

Martin Woodhall says: Another midweek friendly and another good run out. The game was played at Coseley Leisure Centre. Thanks to Mark Crouch* for suggesting the venue as we were really struggling to get a pitch. We managed about 40 minutes each way due to the light.

As for the game we eventually ran out comfortable winners but in fairness to Zion I think they had a couple of regulars missing. For the second Wednesday running we were caught napping in the first two minutes and found ourselves 1.0 down. The goal was an ideal wake up call and within ten minutes we had turned it around and gone 2.1 up. The rest of the first half was pretty one-sided and I think we added another four to go in 6.1 up a half time. Too be honest we couldn't believe we had conceded.

The second half was a little more competitive. We added a 7th before both sides traded goals which were both contenders for strike of the season not just of the night. This left it at 8.2 Somewhere between then and the final whistle we managed a 9th for a final score of 9.2

Good luck to Zion who have a nice bunch of lads and a lot of pace through the team. I'm sure they will pick up points during the season.

Our prep ends on Saturday with a tough test against St Thomas's we have the bare 11 due to injuries and holidays so it will be a good test for us.

DC Dynamos

DC Dynamos have been let down for friendly this Saturday if you fancy a game we have a great pitch and a ref booked??

Let me know asap regards Mark Crouch 07884003285

Pye Green Towers

Pye Green Towers are looking for a friendly this Saturday, if anyone is still available contact Dave: dave@pyegreen.co.uk

More Friendly Reports

Thanks for your efforts chaps, I'm sure you'll all agree that the reports do improve this web site.

Zion Athletic 2 Sporting Zion 3

Dave Guttridge says: Another good fast game. Athletic went one up after 10 minutes from a Matt turn and shot. Ashlee made it 1.1. The second half started fast from both Zion teams. Sean made it 2.1 and then Athletic pulled level with a well taken penalty but with five minutes left, Sporting made the most of a free kick when the Athletic keeper Jim spilled the shot and Moss tapped the ball home. A good fast game, both teams did well. Good luck for the season.

St.John Church FC 3 Dynamo Kingswinford 2

Rob Waddams adds to Adam's report: It was our first pre-season game on Saturday and I'm glad to say we can take plenty of positives from the performance. We were missing eight players due to holidays, injuries and a stag weekend. Jason hastily put together the bare bones of a side with most of the players playing in new positions or making debuts.

St John's were quick out of the blocks and used younger legs to their advantage but I thought we held them well for the first twenty minutes or so until a good through-ball and a tidy finish by Paul Beagen put St John's 1-0 up. St John's went on to dominate much of the first 45 minutes as DK struggled to come to terms with our new formation. We had a few chances thanks to some good distribution from Dan Greatrex in goal and excellent wing play from a rejuvenated Dave Abel.

Going in 1-0 down at half time, we were fairly happy and with some positive words from the gaffer and DK came out in the second half with a new mind set. Kev Hodgetts and James Simmons began to boss the midfield and our passing game returned. We were soon level through a scrappy goal which saw the St John's keeper palm a straight-forward take into my path from a Dave Abel set piece and the simplest of tap-ins ensued. This spurred us on and we began to dominate with good use of our wingers. The second soon followed and it was another piece of fine wing play from Dave Abel on the left where he crossed a brilliant bouncing ball into the St John's area and I put away my second and propelled DK into a 2-1 lead.

Unfortunately, we were unable to capitalise and ended up conceding two late goals from defensive errors. In fairness to our lads, we only had eleven players available and our tiredness showed compared to St John's who could make 3-4 rolling substitutions. The final score was 3-2 to St John's, but a special mention to Dave Abel who as you can probably guess was superb on the left wing and to Matt Smith who put in great performance at centre-half.

St John's will do well this season and they have a good set of lads, so all the best!

MBD United

Due to unforseen circumstances, MBD United will be back at Dudley Wood next year. Their planned move to Tudor Grange in Solihull fell through.

Friendlies

The friendly season is in full swing with little time left before WMCFL kicks off its biggest season ever in just thirteen days time. We have quite a few games from mid-week to add to the ones that were played yesterday.

St Matthew's 7 EK Corinthia 1

A solid performance for St Matthew's and worrying signs for EK as the Walsall based team run out easy winners in this tie.

MBD United 4 DC Dynamos 2

Mark Crouch reports: Wednesday night saw DC take on MBD. We have strengthened our squad since we had a mauling 6-1 mauling against MBD last season, so this was a good test to see how far we have come.

The match wasn't helped by the long grass the ball holding up all over the pitch and made dribbling on the wings very difficult for both teams. MBD adapted to the conditions better as they were 1-0 up within ten minutes with a fine finish. Soon they had doubled their lead as a through ball beat the DC defence and the keeper ran out only for the ball to get caught in the grass and rather than the ball run comfortably through to the keeper it held up and the keeper caught in no man's land. To be fair to their striker, it was a lovely lofted finish that beat the keeper though. Another goal followed soon after as DC were guilty of playing the long ball, making life difficult for themselves as the ball was just coming straight back at them. MBD had three or four chances and scored three great goals. Towards the end of he half DC were starting to find their feet but it ended 3-0.

The second half saw DC start the better playing great passing and moving football. DC were awarded a free kick 25 yards out and James Cole stepped up, one step and bang!! A real explosive shot beat the keeper; a James Cole special. With the score at 3-1 DC's heads were up now and MBD were camped in their own half as attack after attack from DC put MBD under real pressure. Soon it was 3-2 after some great interchanging play saw the ball fall to Dean Cole in the MBD area and he finished well to make it 3-2. DC were peppering MBD goal, playing some lovely passing and moving football using the width to good effect forcing corner after corner but unable to finish. MBD did have a chance but Gavin Preist made a fine save diving up and to his left to turn it round the post.

I'm sure their Manager will admit that the second half was all DC and that we were unlucky not to make that final push to get a draw. The difference today was MBD's clinical finishing as their striker Ryan Reynolds made it 4-2 as a wayward pass from our midfield saw the ball flicked forward and Ryan burst through leaving our defence stranded who were pushing forward he rounded the keeper and finished neatly.

MBD probably had six good chances and clinically scored four goals and that was the difference today because during the second half DC had in excess of ten good chances and scored two goals. Had Adam 'ONK' Bradshaw and Dave Rich been playing the result 'could' have been different but fair play to MBD they have a great squad and will have a great season I am sure.

Steve Burford and Paul 'Bluey' Blewitt men of match for DC. Special mention to Jonathan Nelson the ref who reffed a very dificult match extremely well.

Brierley Hill AOG 0 Sporting Zion 3

Dave Guttridge says: Well what can I say? A very good game; two teams getting ready for the new season. Both teams started fast with Sporting having the best chances. Zion took the lead with a well taken goal from Ashlee Gutteridge. Sean then made it 2-0 with a wonder goal (it was a 30 yard thunder bolt).

During the second half, both teams showed good spirit, with Brierley looking for a goal and Sporting holding onto the lead. With five minutes left Sporting made the game safe with another goal from Ashlee. 3-0.

A very good run out for both teams and good luck to Brierley in the new season.

City Church 2 Lighthouse Lions 2

Lighthouse signal their intent with an impressive result against one of the better teams from last season's Division One. It will be a difficult task to suggest who will be in the promotion places come May next year, with plenty of clubs in the running.

St Mary's 2 Junction Ten Village 1

Martin Woodhall says: Another really good run out and a chance to test ourselves against arguably the best in the league. It was also a chance for both sides to have a look at each other before the Cup game in September. I played against St Mary's last season in the Cup and their side Wednesday was similar so we guessed they were not too far from full strength.

It looked like being an easy night for St Mary's as we were caught sleeping and conceded within two minutes. However, the rest of the half was fairly even until St Mary's were awarded a clear penalty just before half time to make it 2.0

We made a couple of changes at half time and to be honest, we were excellent in the second half playing some good football and restricting St Mary's to very few openings. An own goal got us back into the game and despite not finding an equaliser, we looked most likely to score. St Mary's are very well organised and have quality in the right areas; I'm sure they will go close to winning the league again. However, we are quite looking forward to the Cup game and I would be very surprised if there's more than a couple of goals in it come September 26th.

And then Saturday:

Zion Athletic 2 Sporting Zion 3

Jallen texts: The new boys prove a point today in that they are no push-overs with a win over the more experienced Zion side. They showed more commitment and desire to win, simple as that! Well done Sporting.

Rich Webster also texts: A topsy-turvy belated start to pre-season. After taking the lead, we fell 2-1 behind before the end of the first half. A scrambled second and headed winner in the last five minutes saw us home. A good work-out with a number of players staking a claim for a regular place for the season opener.

Goals from Gareth Owen and two from Ashley Smith.

St.John Church FC 3 Dynamo Kingswinford 2

Adam Wall, secretary from St John's says: St John's were missing nine players from there normal squad due to injuries and the V Festival but still managed to maintain theire 100% home record in a hard fought game, with St John's handing debuts to no less than six players. Both teams got stuck in, in a fair game but St John's were on top early on and Paul Beagen made it four in four when he smashed St John's ahead. As per usual St John's were slow to start the second half and Dynamo came at us scoring two well worked goals. With it all to do St.Johns dug deep as Player Manager Adam Wall set two late goals up scored by Daniel Clarke on his debut, and Stuart Rogers tucked away the rebound from a well hit free kick.

Thanks go to Dynamo for a sporting game.

DC Dynamos 3 Bournbrook 5

Jon Earp reports: Well we are up and running with our first win of pre-season. A really bad start saw us 3-0 down in 15 minutes, we pulled two back before half time. After the half time talk, the players came out and responded by scoring three goals which saw the game finish 5-3 to us.

Some very good performances off my lads in the second half and to come back from 3-0 down showed our character.

Sandwell United 0 Lighthouse Lions 4

The Lion's pre-season continues to go well as they win with an emphatic score-line against Sandwell United.

Pye Green Towers 2 Living Hope 4

Neil Oakshott says: Living Hope finally chalked up their first win at the fourth time of asking with a spirited display against Pye Green, coming from behind twice to secure the victory.

In the ideal setting of a sunny Cannock Park the match was a real end-to-end affair, with both keepers being tested early on. Living Hope weren’t helped by the loss of their keeper within the first fifteen minutes, but they refused to let it affect them and forced several openings, which but for wayward finishing nearly brought an opening goal. However it was Pye Green that snatched the lead with a proper poacher’s goal, well finished at the near post.

The second half saw Living Hope equalise within five minutes, with captain Callum Oakshott receiving a pass from Ben Davies and finishing neatly into the bottom left corner from the edge of the area. Pye Green pressed forward and shortly after went ahead for the second time, finishing off a chance as the Living Hope defence stood still, convinced that the ball had previously gone out of play. This seemed to galvanise Living Hope as they soaked up pressure and forced several counter attacks, resulting in a quick fire hat-trick for Nathan Brain. For his first Nathan ran on to a long ball from stand-in goalkeeper Dean Russell, before rounding the Pye Green keeper and slotting the ball into the net. For number two Nathan ran onto a pass from Callum Oakshott, lobbing the keeper and then repeated the act after Michael Taylor had played Nathan through.

Both teams played good, committed football and the referee had little work to do in a very sporting match. For Living Hope their three previous defeats were quickly forgotten and their joint man-of-the match, Lee Smith and Josh Steventon, both put in their best performances in a Living Hope shirt. Pye Green were gracious hosts and both teams can look forward to a successful 2009/2010 season.

MBD United 2 Junction Ten Village 3

Martin Woodhall says: This was an ultra competitive friendly played at MBD's ground in Cradley. Anybody who happened to stumble across this game during the second half would be forgiven for thinking it was a cup semi final. The pitch was pretty hard and not easy to play football on, reminded me a bit of Anchor Meadow.

The first half was pretty timid in relation to the second. We played some decent stuff without ever really finding our stride and nicked a couple of goals to take a 2.0 lead. At the time we honestly couldn't see ourselves being troubled.

The first ten minutes of the second half were again competitive without being greatly entertaining. However, a couple of tackles had started to go in from both sides and the banter started. MBD then got themselves back in it with a header which came nicely to their player off our keeper.

It stayed 2.1 for about 5 minutes before Bevan hit a sweet left foot strike to make it 3.1. The final twenty minutes were interesting lots of tackles lots of banter and a good deal of pressure from MBD. It was our first real taste of a physical encounter and fair play to MBD for taking us out of our comfort zone for the final period of the game. They pulled it back to 3.2 after a wayward defensive header fell kindly to their player to slot home.

In many ways this was probably our best friendly so far in that we managed to win without playing to anywhere near our best. The game lacked the quality of the friendly Wednesday with St Mary's but the competitive edge should ensure we are ready for September 5th.

All the best to MBD for the new season.

Three Peaks

Recently Jon Jackaman climbed the Three Peaks - The three highest mountains in the UK - In aid of the Alzheimer's Society. St Mary's first manager is suffering from the desease. The photo is of Jon and his pals on the summit of Snowdon, the third of the three they climbed.

If you'd like to chip in, please click here: http://www.justgiving.com/3peaks3days7idiots/

Friendlies

Let me have your scores, everyone's interested. I got to St Matthew's game at home to Living Hope and left with the scores 2-1 to St Matthew's at half time. Living Hope had taken the lead. I heard a bit of shouting from over the road and nipped across the Broadway to see a bit of the game between St Thomas and Rowley College. The goals were rolling in there too, with Mark Hadden showing he hasn't lost his touch. Oh and that was definately a cross Mr Southall.

MBD 4 Lighthouse Lions 3

A slim victory for MBD against their Second Division rivals, both fresh from promotion in their first season.

Champions Church 5 St Boniface 0

Shawn Devonport says: With our manager away and in my opinion our best player Rion MIlls absent, we were slighly worried after seeing St Boniface put nine past Sandwell in midweek but instead with a fully fit squad except Rion we produce arguably our best performance since starting up 15 months ago.

It was defensively that impressed me most again today, in Jimmy Cutler and Obi St Boniface possess a very strong front line and a very good left winger but once again Jim Wilkes, Rob Moody, Ralphy, Greg and Ashley all contributed towards St Boniface not really having a chance of note. Going forward we just had a bit too much pace and hit the woodwork twice as well as missing some other very good chances, the keeper also making a couple of smart saves. St Boniface never give up though and I'm sure that they will bounce back from this result and in their front two they possess two very handy players.

For us it's a week off next week and then Wolves and Perton on the 29th and then the big kick off and after today we are looking forward to it!! Best of luck to St Boniface for the rest of the season! Goalscorers: Shawn Devonport 4, David Oakley 1.

James Gray adds: I'm not going to start by saying we had this that and the other player missing (which we did). All credit goes to Champions Church who played to their strengths and won the game convincingly. Shawn is by far one of the best players within the league and we are blessed to have him. I tried my best to keep him at bay with one or two saves.

All the above being said, with the four players we had missing, we made best with our squad (a lot more depth). We had another two debuts today from Ben (right wing) and Danny (CM) and although we took a beating today. I feel we will learn more today than we would have in our last friendly.

Finally note - Once again we had a very decent ref! What in the world is going on?

St Matthew's 5 Living Hope 2

Ed says: St Matthew's were made to work for this one. As previously mentioned, I watched the first half. St Matt's could have opened the scoring early on but the score remained 0-0 until Kyle, I think, Living Hope's number nine escaped the attentions of the Matt's defender and thumped the ball into the roof of the net. I'm not sure if I'm exaggerating things but St Matthew's do seem to go behind and then come back: A superb quality to have as a football team, as many teams start pointing the finger instead of getting with the game.

St Matthew's pulled one back a little later, then went ahead just before half time. Obviously, up the slope suited them a little better (the through-balls tend to hold up for the strikers, instead of running away) as they ran out 5-2 winners. But a decent showing from Living Hope against First Division opposition, they will do OK.

One of the Living Hope lads picked up a fair knock off Martin Nicholls, accidentally I hasten to add. It turns out that Martin used to teach the lad science; I bet he didn't call him 'Sir'.

Bournbrook Athletic 2 Rockmount United 2

Jon Earp reports: A better run out for us today. We are still in the stages of bedding new players in at the moment and gave another six new players their debut. With two goals from our new forward Nathan Pugh and some good performances from the new lads we looked OK. On the downside the old injury nightmare continues this season losing Sean McKenna after a late tackle within five minutes, I am expecting a fair few weeks off with the swelling on his ankle. All in all we played some good football and defended well. I expect another step forward next week as this new team continues to gel and fitness levels improve.

DC Dynamos 6 EK Corinthia 0

Mark Crouch writes: Third versus Second Division this week as we took on EK in another warm up match to prepare for the long haul ahead.

DC started the brighter blooding two new players due to regulars' holiday committments. Ten minutes in and DC were awarded a penalty as Clinton Dudson was pushed over in the box. Onk Bradshaw stepped up but the keeper made a great save and the ball was cleared for a corner. Clinton whipped the ball in and Shaun Capper put the ball in the net with a bullet header: 1-0.

Five minutes later and it was 2-0 as a defensive mix up saw the EK left back push the ball towards his keeper with too much weight on the pass and it went straight in. EK had a chance as a fierce shot was pushed round the post by DC's keeper Gavin Priest. Our back four were having an outstanding game repelling anything that came on goal with no-nonsense football.

EK were unable to cope with Adam Doupe in centre midfield as he out battled them on the ground and in the air playing the ball around quite superbly at times. It was soon 3-0 as Onk Bradshaw made up for his earlier penalty miss with a thunderbolt shot from outside the area. A wonderful goal from an outstanding striker. DC had a few more chances but were unable to score again before half time. EK were showing their frustration with a few mis-timed tackles as their legs got tired from chasing the game.

3-0 half time and it was nothing more than we deserved.

The second half saw no real change in either team's performance. EK tried to get back in the game but to a man today DC were outstanding snuffing out anything that EK threw at them.

A goal kick from EK hit the back of our wingers head Chris Gee and Onk saw the ball beautifully onto his foot and hit a marvellous volley giving the keeper no chance: 4-0. Five minutes later and another thunderbolt shot this time from DC's James Cole made it 5-0. Soon it was 6-0 as James Cole ran at the defence with a mazy run beating three or four players and scored the goal of the game. DC could have scored a few more but were unable to find the net hitting the crossbar twice and the post once as they peppered the EK goal. To be fair to EK this was their first pre-season match but take nothing away from my boys today they played well in every department today.

MBD Wednesday.

Mid Week Matches

St Boniface 9 Sandwell United 3

St B's took on Sandwell earlier this week in our first friendly of pre-season (we have fallen into the trap of not being able to secure anywhere near a decent set of numbers over pre season).

Sandwell look to have added a few good players for the forthcoming season - a special mention to there Centre Midfielder who played the ball around very well and looked to stretch us with a ball over the top at every chance he could.

We started very slowly and I hope we can put it down to being rusty - we pretty much gave Sandwell a 0-2 lead by mistakes - can't really remember the exacts on our goals (too busy trying to focus on my own game) but we secured what looked a comfortable result with goals from Jimmy Cutler (perfect hattrick), Obi 2, Ridley (debut goal from CB), PR (debut goal from LB) & a goal a piece from Jase Walsh and Coxy (although this one might have been Jase).

It was mentioned by the gaffer that we need to be switched on from the whistle when the season starts as we can't afford to give goals to the opposition. As a reflection from the game nothing seems to have changed in the St B's camp - will always score goals but will give you one or two back.

Ken Knight ref the game on little notice - he still has it and let the game flow nicely.

St Matthew's 3 Common Ground United 2

St Matthew's were a little shocked by the DIvision Three newcomers, who appear to be settling down as a team a little.

Friendly matches please...

Renewal Solihull are after a friendly on 22 August - Please contact Brian Follows bcfollows@hotmail.com

Lighthouse Lions: Contact James Doris @ jimmyd2003@msn.com or call me/Txt me on 07554640136

Sheldon: Lyndon Fisher 07767 866872

All want games this Saturday. Please let me know when you have something sorted chaps. It will save everyone a load of wasted time. Thanks Ed.

Friendly Results

Firstly from mid-week

St Thomas 3 St John's 4

Mark Roadway from St Thomas says: This was St Thomas' first friendly of the year and boy could you tell: 2-0 down after 20 minutes from two smart finishes coming from passes splitting the defence open. A better end to the half by St Thomas creating a couple of good chances and looking like we were starting to get into the swing of things. We still went into half time 2-0 down.

The second half saw a vast improvement by St Thomas and a well taken early Ash Thorpe goal started us off on the right foot. A second goal from a well worked play down the left hand side saw Matt Challoner deliver a decent cross finished off by Mark Hadden: 2-2. A goal form a corner by Dan Simmonds made it 3-2 with about 20 minutes left. Decent chances were then created by both sides and some smart saves by the St Thomas' keeper kept us ahead, however tired legs and minds in the last 10 minutes saw a contentious goal from a corner to bring the scores back level. That would have perhaps been a fair result overall, however St John's nicked it in the last 5 minutes with some sloppy play and lack of clearing the box by St Thomas.

All in all a good run out for our first game.

St John's Jay Lawrie adds: A great game played on a superb playing surface, we made use of this and let the ball do all the work. Fair play to St Thomas lads who never gave up untill the final whistle. St John's team is still not fully 100% with a few major players still carry in injuries and players missing, this is what caused our 4-0 shock defeat to Junction Ten Village. alltogether a good performance from the team.

And finally, Adam Wall chips in: In a thrilling encounter neither team really deserved to lose. St. John's had the better of the first half keeping the ball well and playing lovely passing game from the back. St.John's took the lead through Paul Beagen when he slid past the goalkeeper one on one. That lead was soon doubled when Adam Wall chipped the keeper when put through. The second half a five goal thriller with the first three going to St. Thomas's who came out for the second half a different team giving a 3-2 lead. St John's scored twice late on through Paul Beagen and Lee Pitchford to win what was a thrilling match.

Thanks to Rob and the rest of the St. Thomas team for such a sporting game.

St Matthew's 3 DC Dynamos 2

Mark Crouch reports on DC's game with St Matt's:

St Matthews got the better of early exchanges but DC soon came into their own. DC's defence: Paul Blewitt, Steve Burford and Jon Murphy holding strong and dealing comfortably with any attack on goal. St Matts pick of players was their number 17 who was a handful the whole match.

It was St Matts who took the lead when a ball played out of our defence pin balled back into our area and they ran in and scored although from where I was standing their player was more than two yards off side. We kept our heads up and attacked, Dave Rich and James Cole playing the ball through to Adam and Joey. Joey had two chances but was unable to take either. Clinton Dudson had two efforts from close range and missed when it seemed easier to score. He soon made up for it though as we drew level when some great play through the middle of the park saw him run onto a through ball and slide it under the advancing keeper. Rory Hobbs was outstanding chasing down everything putting in solid tackles and generally making a nuisance of himself.

Half time 1-1

We made changes at half time blooding two new players: Adam Doupe and Chris Gee. In these two we have found a great centre back/centre midfielder and a pacey midfielder/winger who has great ball control; the final additions to our squad.

St Matt's scored again to make it 2-1 as a poor goal kick by our centre back eked out the area and their attacker ran in for a soft goal. DC kept attacking St Matt's keeper, tipping up to four goal-bound shots over the bar. Then DC were awarded a penaly as Adam Bradshaw was brought down in the box. Steve Burford unfortunatley missed St Matt's keeper pulling off a great save. DC didn't let if affect their game though as two minutes later, James Cole made a great break into St Matt's area and scored a neat goal: 2-2 and DC were doing all the attacking, passing the ball round gloriously at times. Adam Doupe was impressive at centre back putting in some solid challenges with towering headers and some great slide rule passes. Chris Gee showed that with matches under his belt and playing on a bigger pitch that he will be a real problem for defences this season. Dean Cole made some great turns upfront and was very unlucky with a fierce shot their keeper again tipping over.

St Matt's broke and an attempt on goal saw our keeper save but we felt their attacker kicked the ball out of his hands and scrambled the ball in. On another day, the ref may have given a foul.

St Matt's will know they were in a tough game and be grateful for the win. I am proud of my lads because what I saw today was a team that should have won 3-1 but for a missed penalty and two contentious goals but that's football.

We have matches arranged every Wednesday and Saturday up to the start of the season, so I expect us to be match fit and up for the challenge a head. Bring it on! Man of the match Rory Hobbs but to a man all the DC lads were outstanding today.

Rowley College 2 Zion Athletic 2

Jallen reports: Illness left us scrapping a team of ten men but for most of the first half we controlled the play. With Rowley controlling the second as we tired. A goal a piece in each half, a missed penalty from us and Rowley missing a few sitters made for a good game.

2-2 was probably a fair result. Cheers Rowley!

DC Dynamos 4 Bradmore 5

Another fantastic match to watch playing an unknown team. Again we lost but hold your heads up lads we showed great fighting spirit but we just got done by a fitter bunch of lads who passed the ball well.

Bradmorre were two up inside 15 mins after two great crosses were met with decent headers sending the keeper the wrong way. Defence got caught having to leap backwards both times allowing the striker to sneak in and score. DC had to make early substitutions due to some lads drinking all night. DC then showed the kind of fighting spirit I have got used to seeing. Substitute Adam Doupe scored with a nice header from a glorious Jon Murphy corner. 2-1 10 minutes later and a sweet ball from the midfield allowed Adam 'ONK' Bradshaw to run through taking the ball on rounding the keeper and hitting a great shot from a tight angle. 2-2
Both teams had a couple more chance before the break but the half finished 2-2

Bradmore went a head after being awarded a penalty it seemed very harsh as it was clearly ball to hand but nonetheless the ball hit the defenders hand inside the box and they were awarded and scored. 3-2

Before we knew it though it was 3-3 as Chris Gee scored a great goal the ball was slide rule passed through to him by Clint Dudson and he ran onto it cut inside and slipped a lovely pass under the advancing keeper and in. The pitch (very boggy) the size of the pitch and the amount of chasing down we were having to do then started to take its toll and within the space of 10 mins we were 5-3 down as Bradmore's superior fitness shone through. To be fair to the lads we carried on battling and managed to pull a goal back to make the scoreline more respectable as Dan Summer wrapped up a good display by him with a well taken goal.

Man of match today Adam 'ONK' Bradshaw who was simply outstanding running his socks off and scoring a great goal but fine performances from everyone special mention to Adam Doupe who scored a nicely taken goal and had a good all round game. To me this looked like a really good workout and will see us in good shape for the season.

These were by far the best team we have played since joining the league. Should anyone fancy a good workout and to pit themselves against a great passing side contact Steve Williams on 07901585479

St Matthew's 6 Bournbrook Athletic 0

St Matthew's seem to be getting into their stride.

St John's 3 Sporting Zion 1

Jay Lawrie from St John's says: Sporting Zion came straight at us from the whistle witch took us a little by surprise and off guard! A goalkeeping blooper gave Sporting the lead. We made a few changes to the team and we got settled and took control of the game! The back four was never really threatened again during the remainder of the match.

As the second half proceeded we really started to push for goals and WMCFL veteran Paul Beagan slotted in a sitter. Soon after we were awarded a free kick that got flicked on by Stuart Rogers to make the score 2-1. Adam Wall then scored a cheeky one by chipping the keeper from the edge of the box. Fair play to Zion who gave it everything for the 90.

Friendly Results

A handful of friendly results today, some with reports; thanks chaps.

St Matthew's 2 Junction Ten Village 1

Martin Woodhall reports: Another good run out today and with respect to other opponents our first real test. All in all the game was very even, with our guys playing the better football but St Matts a bit grittier and experienced. After a tight start St Matts took the lead with an unstoppable strike. The rest of the half was scrappy at best with not many chances. At half time we made a few changes with immediate impact.

We equalised within two minutes of the second half restart. We then missed a great chance to take the lead, before conceding a very soft set piece goal. St Matts will admit they pretty much just held on to that lead for the rest of the game with us doing all of the attacking. We enjoyed the test and I think a defeat will probably be helpful in the long term. We Wish St Matts all the best for the season.

Champions Church 3 Common Ground United 1

Shawn Devonport says: Firstly a big well done to Common Ground, they were superb today and gave us a real run for our money.

We played at the astro at Coseley School after the Dudley College pitch was deemed waterlogged on Wednesday. First half we never really turned up, Common Ground went close from the kick off and were just simply up for it much more than us! We hit the post though and created a few half chances but Common ground looked solid at the back as well as having a bit of pace up top that our defense dealt with very well. We did take the lead however after a very poor goalkeeping error allowed for Colin to get his first goal for us with an open goal. Common Ground however didn't give up and were rewarded with a goal with a fine long range free kick which was drilled in low and hard. Common Ground were still not giving us a second on the ball and both defences looked solid with not much quality on show. We did however get another goal just before the break with our only real bit of quality all half when I played a one-two with Greg Thompson and drilled past the keeper.

Second half we were the better team this time and it was just because we raised the tempo a little, the introduction of Ralphy helped as well in the centre of the park. We were knocking it about a bit better but that final ball was evading us as the ball kept skiding through on the wet surface. We made it 3-1 when I got my second of the game from just outside the box. The last 20 minutes saw us slack of a little again and all though we broke away with a few chances we should have done better with Common Ground also went close making our keeper make a good save and went very close with a few efforts from distance whilst there striker wasted a couple of decent chances.

Common Ground have some very good players and could mould into a very good team, they had a good squad of 16 turn out today and look a very well run outfit. They were also tight at the back. For us we were missing Rion who is a loss to any team to injury and Ralphy couldn't start because he still aint 100% and with Josh Ball who has scored plenty in pre-season so far missing and our engine man Tim Bamber was away. It was always going to be a tough match and although we didn't play great its another win just like last week we seem to be able to just about do enough every week looking very solid again at the back. Man of the match Greg Timmington with his centre back partner Jim Wilkes a close second.

St John's 2 Sheldon 1

Sheldon's Lyndon Fisher reports: A decent run out for us today, with a few first team players missing. St John's came at us straight from the kick off silly mistakes led to their two first half goals. We missed a late penalty but they deserved their first half lead.

We pulled one back midway through the second half a splendid free kick by Tim Atkins, and continued to dominate the game with our makeshift forward line missing numerous chances, although St John's were dangerous on the break.

All in all a sporting game played in the right spirit.

King's AFC 4 MBD United 1

A better result for King's against a weaker MBD who had a few missing.

Player looking for club

Michael Knowles is looking for a new club. If you can accomodate him, get in touch at know200@newman.ac.uk

Michael has played for Selly Oak Methodist and Elim Athletic

KICK for Children with Cancer

Click here for details on this charity.

Adam Earp

A quick note from Tracey and Jon at Bournbrook Athletic up dating everyone who supported adam: He is still in remission from the leukaemia that he suffered from over the last year or two but has got a lung disease and unfortunately has had to hang up his football boots as he can no long play.

Player Registration Forms

The Player Registration forms are now available in the Information section of the site. Click on Information, then Forms.

Player Registration Emergency Player Registration

Friendly Results

With the season just six weeks away, the friendly matches are beginning to build in number. I've had a couple of results through:

Clarendon 3 Zion Athletic (and a handful of Sporting) 0

Zion's Jon Allen reports: Clarendon deserved the win but our lads played well for large parts of the game. Was it not for wasting pretty much every set piece by putting the ball into touch and not creating enough in the last third, we could have made much more difficult for Clarendon. However, I felt we did well and brushing up on a few things, we'll be a match for most in Division One come the start of the season.

Ed adds: That's the way Clarendon seem to play: Soak up the pressure and nick two or three.

Champions Church 2 DC Dynamos 0

Shawn Devonport says: Another friendly today at Dudley College and after the puddle was cleared again we had another good pitch with DC Dynamos the opposition. After having a mainly full squad last week bar two, we were much shorter today with a number of lads on holiday, but a good oppurtunity to field the guys who didn't get a game last week and let them stake a claim.

It was a totally different game to St Mary's last week, who like to knock the ball about with DC Dynamos being more physical team. They put in some tough challenges and won many aerial battles. We knocked the ball around well and took the lead through Robbie Cox in his second game for us after he tried his luck from distance. The ball bounced just in front of the keeper, which is always more difficult to deal with than it looks and he was unable to prevent the ball from finding its way into the net. DC then had their best period without our keeper having to make a save because our defence were blocking everything but DC kept pressing and put us under bits of pressure. We went close with a few free kicks and Josh Ball forcing the keeper into a good save but we were playing some good stuff without creating much.

Second half we were the better team going close numerous times from distance. Josh Ball and Colin went very close with Rion also hitting the bar. We went 2-0 up when a fantastic 40 yard Rion Mills ball found its way to myself and I rounded the keeper. DC went close again when Steve Burford forced our keeper into his only save with good stop away to his left.

Credit to DC who restricted us to only four or five clear cut chances and really gave us a real fight today. They gave us a good physical workout today and are probably a good striker away from being a good team, but credit to our defence today who didnt give them a sniff with Jim Wilkes looking like being signing of the summer and Greg Timmington both top class again today. Only negative being myself and Rion both picked up ankle and groin problems today and Lee Ralph strugglng with his knee so hope we all recover for next week against Amblecote next week!

Junction Ten Village 4 St John's 0

Martin Woodhall emails: Another good run out today, ending in a pretty comfortable victory. We had heard good things about St John's but for one reason of another they never seemed to get going today. The first 15 minutes were pretty tight but our left back for the day Bevan lashed one in for 1.0 and that was soon followed by Paul Gibbons adding the second.

Second half was a little bitty as we made a few changes. Credit to St John's tho who improved a little in the second half. Our two second half goals were added by debutant Pete Major and Mark Dawson. All in all we were pleased today as we were missing our goalkeeper and the influential manager. Looking forward to friendly against champions on 4th.

St Matthew's 5 Selly Oak Methodist 2

Selly Oak go down 5-2 away at St Matthew's with a few sloppy errors at the back costing them. St Matthew's intensive pre-season continues as they plan an assault on the Division One title next year.

Bournbrook Athletic FC...

Are looking for defenders for the new season. Please email Jon at thecoach@hotmail.co.uk if you are interested.

St Thomas...

Are available for friendlies on 1, 15 and 22 August. Contact rob.s.hill@blueyonder.co.uk or Mark Roadway: 07531 505203

Champions Church 6 St Mary's 1

Shawn Devonport says: Just a quick report on today's friendly where we took on Division One Champions St Mary's at The Parade, Dudley College which was excellent facilities and a big flat pitch that helped for some good football be played. (Alpha used to play there for those who remember them-Ed).

St Mary's were three or four short but they had Andy Beeson back who was very impressive today but we were a couple short too.

St Mary's took the lead and dominated the first 30 minutes creating plenty of chances and our keeper made some good saves as well as the woodwork coming to our rescue. Nick Sprason got on the end of a Josh Blunt cross after good work to give St Mary's the lead. This however kicked us into gear and we equalised and went close to making 2-1 when Rion flashed one wide. We took the lead just before half time when Josh Ball who was excellent got on the end of a Rion Mills cross-field ball.

In the second half we took the game to St Mary's and it was us dominating this time with St Mary's only really threatening with set pieces. We broke well and took most of our chances. Rob Moody was immense as was all the back line and we looked good going forward too! So a good run-out and Ed reffed the game well to (better than last time! lol). All in all a confidence booster for us out and we will not be getting carried away. Goalscorers: Shawn Devonport 4, Josh Ball 2. Its DC Dynamos next week!

Ed adds: A result that will send shock-waves through WMCFL. Apart from a 4-1 win over St Matthew's in the Cup last season, Champions' results have been good but not particularly outstanding. And to add to that, St Matthew's were having a bad time of it just then. Whilst St Mary's were missing a few players, they still had a very decent team out, with a handful of substitutes. They were out-played by Champions yesterday, getting caught flat-footed in defence, unable to cope with the pace and trickery of Rion Mills and Shawn Devonport. In reality, clubs are always missing someone. It's rare that teams say to me 'Oh, we've got the complete squad here today'.

St Mary's were a little unlucky, hitting the woodwork a couple of times that may have kept them in the game. They upped the ante for a while just after Champions made it 3-1 but the Champions' defence, now including the ever-cool Jim WIlkes and a new goalie that they are hoping to sign, stood firm. Once the fourth goal hit the back of the net, St Mary's seemed resigned to their fate and couldn't wait for the match to end.

From a refereeing point of view, both sides were excellent. Champions new resolve to win the new 'Fair Play' award was evident. (The winners in effect get £120). They were exploiting St Mary's lack of pace at the back with many balls pumped through for the forwards to chase after. From my perspective, it meant sprinting up and down the pitch in order to keep up, which will explain my catatonic state from about 8pm last night.

All in all a good game of football. A kick up the back-side for St Mary's (6-1 was harsh) and a shot in the arm for Champions. Who would like to predict the result when they take on Clarendon in the first round of the Cup in a few weeks?

St Mary's...

Are available for friendlies on Wednesday 5 , Saturday 15 and 22 August but have no pitch. Contact Nick Sprason at nicksprason@aol.com

Alzheimer's Society

On August 7th a group of seven of us are climbing the Three Peaks over a period of three days. I am doing it to raise money for Alzheimer's Society. Alan Pidgeon who was our first manager when we first set up St Mary's now suffers from this condition, and I have seen at first hand the support the Society gives to the sufferers and the carers. I have set up a website for sponsorship and would be grateful for any contributions no matter what size, to support this fantastic charity. http://www.justgiving.com/3peaks3days7idiots/

Thanks

Jonathan Jackaman

Junction Ten Village 4 Chawn Hill Church 2

A good competitive friendly played at Wassell Grove in Hagley. Nice pitch, but word of warning do not use the changing rooms. It is home to an army of wasps and Neil got stung five times, not pleasant.

The game itself was a good run-out for both teams. Village started brighter and were 3.0 up within half an hour. 1st goal was dubious but with only one linesman the ref had a difficult time. Village also missed two penalties before Chawn pulled a goal back just before half time.

Both teams were missing a couple of key players and the second half was far more even and competitive. We never really got going second half, but much of that owed to a far better display from Chawn. Each team shared a goal a piece in the second half with the game finishing 4.2

We are looking forward to testing ourselves in early August with friendlies lined up against St Matt's and Champions Church.

We also have a pitch and referee booked for 25th July at Sneyd School in Bloxwich. If anyone fancies a game that day drop me an email rwoodhall@btinternet.com

Friendly Opponents Needed

Pye Green Towers are looking for a friendly this Saturday. If you're free contact David Spencer. dave@pyegreen.co.uk

Players Wanted

St Matthew's are still after players for the 2009/10 season. Please contact Martin Nicholls at mnicholls17@hotmail.co.uk if you fancy a stab at playing for them next year.

Friendly Results

Last week MBD United beat Common Ground United 4-1 on the astroturf at Hadley Stadium in Smethwick. A first half Gary Jordan hat-trick was perhaps the difference between the two teams. Common Ground had plenty of chances but were unable to find the net, whereas Gary finished his with aplomb.

Yesterday Sporting Zion and DC drew 1-1.

Goalkeeper Wanted

New Club Living Hope are on the look out for a goalkeeper. Please call Steve Farley on 07753 371116 or Neil Oakshott on 07725 260170 if you are interested.

Private Grass Pitch Available for Hire

Wassell Grove
Hagley
Nr. Stourbridge
West Midlands
DY9 9JP

Ring Steve - 07886 118 668 £50 per game, can offer Saturdays and midweek games.

Please note: Telephone number corrected.

Teams Looking for Friendlies

St John's Church are looking for pre-season friendlies. Please telephone Stuart on 07800 518511 if you are interested.

St Boniface are also looking for a few games before we get going. Please contact James Gray at stbonifacefc@hotmail.co.uk or can be contacted on 07833052134 best by text.

Bournbrook Athletic are looking for friendlies please contact Tracey on 07955610349.