Kevin Kovacs Memorial Trophy

Last season's Division One winners Clarendon took on Cup winners City Church in our annual season opener:

Clarendon 2 City Church 2 (Clarendon won 4-2 on penalties).

Tommy Woodward says: A great warm up today with another Clarendon - City battle. City started strong and pinned us back for the first 20 mins, but we over-ran them and had most of the play for the rest of the game. City scored first with a great strike but we replied with goals from Aaron Williamson, who ran the City defence all over the place and a good finish from Luke Pinnock. City equalised deep into injury time with a well worked move and sloppy defending from us. Penalties is always a gamble but old Clarendon boys Cooper and Conrad failed to convert gifting us the trophy. Good performances all round, with Obi, Pablo, Aaron and Laurie standing out for Clarendon. Well done to City who battled to the end and never gave up.

Martin Ogbourn adds: It was apparent that pre-season was still in the air today; the sun shone, fatique set in, legs cramped, hamstrings were pulled, passes were missed and old boots were split! The game ended in a second consecutive penalty shoot in this fixture with Clarendon taking it 5-3 after a decent run-out for both sides in a 2-2 draw after 90 minutes.

The game was a tight, narrow affair in the first half with few clear chances. City started strongly and played some good pressing football for the first 30 minutes and deservedly took the lead from an excellent finish from Quaintance after a good run. His tireless running and play throughout deserved this reward.

The second half was a little more open as players tired and Clarendon caught City twice with two good finishes to lead 2-1. Clarendon were having the better possession and City were guilty of allowing too much space all over the pitch. However, City dug in and equalised late on from a flowing move and finish from Andrew Thomas on the edge of the box. There were notable performances from Shep at the back and Cooper and Thomas in midfield.

The ensuing penalty shoot out saw an element of revenge for Clarendon after the semi-final defeat last season, but nonetheless it was a competitive game. All the best to Clarendon for the season ahead. In the last six games between the sides there has only been one goal in each game, so i'm sure there will be good battles ahead.

Friendly Updates

I've been away for a few days but whilst I've been sunning myself I've received a few reports:

Halesowen Zion 4 City Church 2

Shawn Devonport says: A lot of banter before the game with this one being a local derby. The game started of at a frenetic pace, plenty of fouls some more blatant than others. Revival seemed to be content with stopping us playing and were working hard flying in with the challenges. With neither team creating a clear cut chance we took the lead about 15 minutes in when Aaron turned and finished fantasticly to give us the lead. We nearly made it two but the Revival keeper saved well at Goule's feet. Lee Ralph then should have done better with an header but it landed straight at the keeper's feet. Apart from that we had a few half chances but nothing of note, Revival never forced Dan into a save first half really but it was only 1-0.

Second half and the game was a more even contest: We still had the clearer chances and did make it 2-0 on the hour when Aaron got his second when he rounded the keeper. We hit the bar when the keeper made a cracking stop on to the bar. Gouley missed a one on one late on as well and Aaron tried to lob the keeper for his hat-trick but lobbed wide. Revival had a few chances too, although Dan wasn't forced into a save. Revival had a few chances flash just wide and had numerous corners which they almost converted. They were also denied a penalty for a hand ball but the referee's view was blocked.

Second half was a much better match when Revival concentrated on their own game and passed the ball around a lot better. They have a few cracking players, in particular Matty Palmer looks to be a top top player and Pardoe gave Rion and Dormer a real match in centre midfield. Both teams were missing their goalscorers with the difference being we had Aaron step up to the plate tonight who was our man of the match.

Some may look at this result and say its a poor result for Champions but Revival will run Division Three close this season if they keep there discipline. They wouldn't have looked out of place in Division Two last season so I'm sure they will go well. For us clean sheet number three out of five and I think once again we defended well. So with no more friendlies lined up I can't wait for the real thing to start in what I'm sure will be a fantastic Division One this season which will be the strongest since I've been involved in the league!

Sporting Zion 2 Zion Athletic 1

Ben Lawrence says: After playing Amblecote mid week and losing convincingly, today called for some character to bounce back and get something out of the game. Zion Athletic started the game at a very quick pace, with some excellent wide play and managed to make it count scoring from a corner.

We went in a goal down at half time, but came out strongly in the second half and got an equaliser with a well taken lob from our captain Jay Barret who used to play for Zion Athletic. Sporting Zion then started to get back into the game and actually kept some possession of the ball. Our winner came when our striker laid the ball of to me just outside of the box on the right wing, I hit it on the outside of my boot first time (couldn't have caught it sweeter) the ball cured round the keeper into the corner of the net. Sporting had some good chances to capitalise after that with some good phases of play, however we didn't manage to get that all important third goal to give us some breathing space. The game ended Sporting Zion 2 Zion Athletic 1 (both goals for Sporting coming from ex Zion Athletic players!)

We needed that today, credit to all the lads for a hearty performance, never giving up and keeping their heads up the whole game.

Amblecote 6 Sporting Zion 1

Ben Lawrence also says: I'm sat here writing a report and can't even remember the score it could have been seven so sorry if it was! Amblecote were relentless and taught us a lesson. After a tight first half we went in at 1-1 having had the lead for most of the half. The second half was a different story and we were made to look stupid. We gifted Amblecote the first three goals and then the barrage started. Credit must go to their boys for some quality finishing as our heads just dropped. I have to mention our one player who stood out known as Nay, he worked his socks off and never gave up. If only we all had that attitude. Well we will put that behind us and try hard against Zion Athletic in our next friendly, if we play like we did tonight we will get Demolished! Anyway well done Amblecote!

Halesowen Athletic 1 Wolverhampton and Perton Churches 3

Ryan McCauley says: A great game and result to end pre-season for both teams. It was Halesowen Athletics third game of pre-season and we started well. The first half finished 0-0, with both keepers barely worked. In the second half the away team came out strong and created good chances. They finally got the opener after a goal mouth scramble. Athletic's heads didn’t drop and found the equaliser almost straight after from a cracking cross from Steven Hussey found the top corner! But W’ton proved why they have been a top team for so long by scoring two in quick succession, the third being a great finish from the striker.

Good game of football and I would like to wish W’ton and Perton Churches luck on their season. Great bunch.

MBD United 6 Selly Oak Methodist 2

Karl Martin says: MBD vs Selly Oak at our new home pitch for the season, and we came out comfortable winners with a 6-2 win over a very average Selly Oak side. We started the game with five guaranteed started on the bench as we opted to try out a new formation with some of the fringe players and three trialists! They all did exceptionally well giving us a very big headache on team selection leading up to the start of the saeson! Another debutant Brad bagging a goal, assist and the man of the match award!

We started off poorly for the second week running with us conceeding an early goal again after like 5-10 minutes, abit of a mix up between our keeper and defender and the striker having an easy tap in, 1-0 Selly Oak! The old MBD would have dropped their heads and maybe conceeded another, but with our current confidence and team spirit we dug in hard, played for each other and made a number of chances over the next 10 or so minutes, Andre 'tinie tempah' Daley could of had a hat-trick during this time but it wasn't to be! We eventually did equalise when Gary was bought down in the area, the keeper saved his soft spot kick, and the rebound, but it fell kindly for Ben W who was on hand for a tap in, 1-1 and game on! We took the lead after about 35 minutes when a great through ball from moose found its way to Andre, we all knew the outcome, he missed, but managed to square the follow up for Brad to drive home to make it 2-1 to MBD and that's how it stayed until the break.

Second half and we brang on Simon, Temo, Jack, Ben R and myself, it wasn't long before it was 3-1, I was bought down just outside the area, Simon stepped up for the free-kick and it went in off the wall but I'm sure he will claim it! They made it 3-2 not long after when we had another defensive mix up, keeper tried to catch, defender tried to header, but anyway back of the net and 3-2 (Gary's fault!) and Selly Oak thinking they could get back into this. Again instead of heads dropping it just spurred us on more, we had chance after chance but couldn't score, myself and Brad missing good chances. We were then awarded a penalty when Simon was bought down, he stepped up to take it but shockingly unlike him missed the target so it stayed 3-2! It was like two minutes after though that we made the break threw to make it 4-2, a nice team move ending with another goal for TJ. Not long after it was 5-2 with the 'one goal a season man' TJ getting his second and his fifth in three games, another great team move started in defence and ended in the back of the net with some very good football inbetween! We made it six late on with Simon rounding off the scoring with his nineth goal in three games.

A good test for us today but look nothing like the Selly Oak from last season, possibly a couple of players missing, but thanks for the game lads. Sheldon on Saturday which will hopefully be a bigger test for us as it's our last game before the start of a season we hope to do very well in! Special mention today to Brad making his debut, he ran their defenders inside out and got himself a goal, an all round very good MBD performance.

MBD United 1 Sheldon 2

Jon White says: Another encouraging pre season performance from the lads. We took a huge squad of 18 for this fixture and despite a number of changes we managed to win the game. The match was fairly close in the end but we should have put the game away long before their late goal. We could have had a hatful in all fairness but we will take the win nonetheless.

For the second week in succession George Stokes stood out scoring two goals, the first following an excellent pass from Dan Harper and cut back from Brett Horobin. The second however was a stunning solo effort consisting of a mazy dribble and neat finish past the keeper.

It looked like we would keep another clean sheet but it wasn't to be following an excellent free-kick from their captain late on in the game. An excellent all round team performance once again.

Karl Martin adds: Today was MBD vs Sheldon in our fourth and final friendly of pre-season. It was against a well organised and energetic Sheldon, we ultimately lost the game 2-1 but we just didn't show up at all today, whether it was the friendlies catching up on us or just a lack of fight I do not know, but hopefully we will be back to winning ways come Saturday at the seasons big kick off!

There really isn't much to report from a very very close first half, both sides had one or two half chances and we went into the break at 0-0. We made a couple of half time changes bringing on Ryan and Liam. I myself had a chance to make it 1-0 but missed a one on one(making a habit of doing so!) It wasn't long though before Sheldon opened the scoring after we lost the ball in attack and they countered for a tap in even though we thought he was a mile offside. Ryan put the ball in the net not long after but the lino flagged even though it was me offside not Ryan, and I didn't think I was active but that's football and on another day it could of gone for us and against Sheldon. For large periods the game was really equal both sides having a few more half chances, but it was Sheldon who scored to make it 2-0 after a mistake from one of our defenders (Gary...again lol) gave the lad a tap in. We pulled one back in the 91st minute with another Si Larmour freekick to make it 2-1 and that's how things ended.

Well done to Sheldon who showed up on the day and looked more up for it than us, I'm happy the wake up call came in a friendly rather than in a league game and hopefully a big improvement next week and three important points!

King's AFC 2 Lighthouse Lions 2

Ray Rose says: A really good day today, football played in the right spirit by both teams. With both teams missing players,this was a very good match,with some excellent play. Lighthouse scored first after 6 mins with a well taken goal from Ben Bowen, other chances followed for both teams, and King's scored midway through the first half.

After the break, King's scored quickly,with some neat football, but Lighthouse were never out of the game. Chance after chance came, but excellent saves from the King's goalkeeper kept them in the game. On 75 mins an excellent run from Ryan Cramford on the right finished with a terrific goal. Neither team gave up and both teams deserved credit for some excellent football. Willis Mullin has a good bunch of lads at his disposal and hope they have a good season. As for Lighthouse another good display against premier class and displays like this can only be good for the season ahead.

With just a fortnight left to the start of the season, there were plenty of clubs in action eager to get some football under their belts before the big kick-off.

City Church 2 Renewal Solihull 4

A stunning result for Solihull. I was writing my predictions as this score came in, now I'm confused.

Revival Fires 4 Pye Green Towers 1

Another win for new boys Revival Fires. It looks like they are going to make a splash when the season starts.

King's AFC 3 Zion Athletic 5

Another good result for Zion Athletic and perhaps more importantly, plenty of goals. Zion struggled to score last year and maybe they will fare better in 10/11 if they can start hitting the back of the net. That's eleven goals in two games for Jallen's side.

Bournbrook Athletic 4 Beacon Church 3

A great result for Beacon against a good Bournbrook side: Max Tully says: A crazy game really, with Beacons being new to the league they were a little disorganised at the back but did well considering they only had two defenders there. This said I counted 28 shots that we had; our finishing today was some of the worst you will ever see with one on one after one on one being somehow missed, saved or off the woodwork.

After really dominating play, Beacon took a shock lead after a scrappy bit of play in the box, David James finally buried for us to make it 1-1. Bournbrook then took the lead after a good header form Adam Wooldridge off a fine Tully corner this finished the half.

Second half and yet more chances missed with Beacons then punishing us by equalising, we again took the lead to make it 3-2 after Michael French finally found the net but yet again a determined Beacon team equalised after a great run and finish from their captain. As time was ticking Bournbrook began playing with urgency and finally got the deserved goal and winner when Max Tully followed in a shot and placed it into the top corner. Beacons threatened late but we held out to take the win.

Overall Bournbrook were sloppy and guilty of taking Beacons for granted who nearly punished us. We need to be more clinical because without being harsh to Beacons it could have been 20-3. They will take something from this game however and with more organisation I think they will do okay in their first season. The game was played in good spirit and they are a nice team. Final word for the ref who I think won ref of the year last year was again awesome, we would have him every game if we could.

Living Hope 1 Dynamo Kingswinford 1

Well our first game of pre -eason drew us against an indifferent and transitional Living Hope Church. It was time for us to blow the cobwebs off and continue our preparations to make a positive start to the new season’s campaign. As always at this time of year, holidays cause havoc and combined with a couple of players picking up injuries, it meant that we able to fully utilise the squad for this game. When we arrived for the late kick off at 12:30, we had 11 players available only then when getting changed some our new potential players were available so changes were made to facilitate their baptism of fire.

The weather was more reminiscent of a late October with heavy rain falling; it was going to be a tough day at the office. In the first half it was clear to see that we just beginning on our match fitness and our rustiness was visible to see with passes over hit or under hit. We huffed and puffed in the final third but a half with very few chances for both teams. In patches we looked good and it was clear to see that some of our pre-season training work was starting to bear fruit. Right back Mathew looked good and composed and at the age of 16, Dynamo Kingswinford’s youth development headed by Andrew Waddams is looking to start to bear fruit. Jay on the other side also looked like a good addition. Competition for places in our back four is something we haven’t had for a long time. Dave “Stubby” Abel & Ross “V” Hodgkins who were missing today will face a stiff test with these new guys. Combined that with the experience of the old warrior Gary “38 Not Out” Lamsdale and our captain Robert “Lasted A Full Game” Waddams, our defence is not in bad shape and looked comfortable.

The seco nd half started pretty much as the first half with lots of huffing and puffing. Our midfield started to boss with my man of match Andrew “Audacious Bear” Waddams seizing the game by the scruff of the neck and started to be the creative talent he is after having to do the dirty stuff through the first half. That’s an added dimension that Andy has added to his game over the past couple of seasons, and we well reap the benefits of this over the next couple of months. Jonathon “One Touch” Martin looked lively in the centre of the park and our pre-season training was really starting to show. Jonno has added some bite to his game and will develop over time. Lee covering for the AWOL Kevin “Don’t Get Married, You Crazy Fool” Hodgetts had a good debut in a DK shirt. Time to make some substitutions.

As soon as I did, Living Hope seemed to find their rhythm and begin to put pressure on our goal. Chris “Sicknote” Platts was alive and looked really good in between the nets, together with Rob “Hammie” Waddams really pushed themselves into contention for man of the match. Our response was to soak up the pressure and counter attack which worked well. During this phase in the game we gained a corner, and had the opportunity of the game that fell to Matt “Nugbot 2010” Price who’s drifting off his marker was pre 2004 and directed a floated header goal bound only to see it glance off the bar. Time for the final substitutions of the game.

I joined the game on the left wing and quickly found out that my match sharpness is about ten years off. It’s been two years since I played and boy am I feeling it now. After two minutes after my entry to field, we found ourselves a goal down with some well worked Living Hope movement on the right that ended in a corner. A glorious cross and a looped header was placed over the out stretched Chris “Sicknote” Platts, (I think as I had my back to the ball as I looking at receiving the ball and knocking the ball 40 yards over the keeper who was off his line). James “Crabsman” Pinches knew he should have done better in the challenge but that will come, like an Albion win.

There were about ten minutes left and we knew we had time to create chances. Paul “Stacky” Stack, an ex DK player come out of carbon freezing and looked just like the player we remember with lightening pace and a great deliverer of the ball was the best bet to create some. But it wasn’t a goal kick from the Living Hope keeper that drop short in midfield where our equaliser came from. The ball dropped onto Matt “Van Basten” Pearson who chested it down onto his knee, two knee ups later it was set for a looping right foot volley from 30 yards out to drop into the back of the net.

We continued to push for the winner and the chance fell to me. After earlier knocking the ball round the man marker, rising like a salmon (John West tinned) to set up Rob “Curtains” Curtis, a new exciting, young & dynamic addition this season. Paul “Stacky” Stack knocked in a pin point cross into the six yard box and after deceiving the man marker again, there I was in acres of space but the ball just drifted slighty over outstretched Worzel Gummidge head. Its continues to be -3 goal difference that haunts my career.

Today was a great physical start for us, it showed us that we still have lots of work to do and over the next couple of weeks we will welcome back the 10 players missing from today. We have again a great depth to our squad, with talent, ability and passion for DK and all the squad will be used to beat the fear of relegation. But today was special, not for the football but to see Mathew “Risen Again” Price, bursting down the flanks in his first competitive game back in a Dynamo Kingswinford shirt after the Lord blessed him and healed from cancer. It was an emotional time for all at Dynamo Kingswinford, and Matt will play a vital role in the future games this coming season.

Finally, I want to thank the referee who had a great game, we are all sometimes quick to be crtical of poor performance but today I want to highlight an exceptional performance. In closing I want to thank Living Hope for a competitive game and they are young squad who I believe will do well this season. They pushed us hard and deserved not to be on the losing side, they have come a long since I went to watch them play Champions Church earlier this month, next week our final warm up game of the season is against Bournbrook Athletic and we are already looking forward to it.

Steve Farley adds: This was a game of few chances, we had to wait 80 minutes for Jase to open the scoring with a free header from a pin point cross from new boy Mikey. Living Hope had their first ever clean sheet in their sights but it wasn't to be as DK equalised with a minute to go.

I was really pleased with LHC in the first half. Controlled, patient football, organisation in the back four, keeping the ball on the floor, some incisive through balls.........but sadly few opportunities and no goals. The second half saw Seb our keeper leave the game for an important appointment so I had to re-organise with Webby going in goal and Lukas moving into midfield. I gradually introduced our younger, less experienced players into the fray and I am pleased to say they all did well. Josh was man of the match in a game where defenders dominated - he has made the left back position his own since moving back from midfield and by doing so has saved Yours Truly a major headache.

Referee Dave Knowles had yet another great game and I hope James remembers to send him to some Division 3 matches next year! Well done also to DK for providing some stiff well matched opposition - may you continue to improve as the season unfolds.

EK Corinthia 0 Sheldon 2

Lyndon Fisher says: The first half was pretty even as both teams started nervously, we went ahead with a wonder goal from George Stokes. We were totally in control second half knocking the ball about confidently carving out many chances and deservedly went two up with a neat header from Aaron Evans. EK made little impact second half, thanks to our solid defence and midfield dominance, a good performance by all our players today especially second half.

We are looking forward to our next match against MBD United. Good luck to EK in the first division this season.

Jon White adds: Another good pre-season performance from the lads and things bode well for the season ahead. We never looked like losing this game and attacked the newly promoted club from the off. With a few new players joining the fold who are keen to impress added to the experience already in the team, the result should have been more convincing. That said, EK battled hard throughout. A clean sheet was a welcome bonus for us and is testament to the excellent performace from the back four and Mitch Adams in nets.

Special mention goes to George Stokes for a cracking goal and and energy filled performance to go with it. Dean Starling also had a great game and looks vital to our chances this season. Aaron Evans netted the second goal soon after coming on from a superb cross from one Timothy Atkins. Sag, Iffy- class fellas. Great performance lads.

Rowley College 2 MBD United 5

Karl Martin reports: Game two of the new era and another win for the MBD lads! Today we played Rowley College in very well contested match. Si Larmour grabbing four more goals to make it seven in two and will be frightening defences all over the league this coming season! Rowley started extremely bright and scored within the first five minutes or so of the game when our defence failed to clear a through ball and the guy had a tap in. They had a couple more chances in the first 20 minutes but then we took over and started to dominate. We got our equaliser around the half hour mark when I picked up the ball 30 yards out and swung in a ball to the back post, anyone else would of tried to bring it down and cross it in, but Simon hit it on the volley first time leaving the keeper with no chance at all! We then created a couple more chances which came to nothing. We went in all square at half time after a very energetic first half!

S econd half and we started quite well this time, we made a couple of subs and andy made a great run straight from the kick off but couldn't find anyone on the end of his cross. We took the lead five minutes after when TJ crossed in a delightful ball, another sub Boulder headed it down and Si was on hand to Di Canio it into the back of the net from 10 yards! 2-1! Literally a minute after we made it 2-1, we gave away a silly penalty which gave Rowley a chance to get it back to 2-2, fortunately for us he blazed it into the trees and we had a lucky escape. It wasn't long before we took advatage of this and made it three, with TJ putting Simon through again and he getting his hat trick with a great lob. It was then four when their defender brought Si down in the area and he took it himself to make it four goals for himself and four for MBD! We continued to create chances, myself and TJ both guilty of missing one on ones with their keeper. Rowley then pulled a goal back when they were awarded another penalty, a different taker and a different outcome: 4-2. We then put the game beyond doubt with the goal of the game: Debutant Teddy started the move into defence as he passed it into Tj who sent it to Si, the ball then went back to Teddy who had continued his run down the wing and played a great ball in for Temo to finish it first time, 5-2 and another good win secured.

Special mention to man of the match Simon who was outstanding today, and to goalkeeper Gavin who was making his debut today, made some good saves and already seems to have started to make a good connection with our defence. Also to Teddy who was great at the back today, two more very, very good additions to the squad, Selly Oak Wednesday which I think again will be a bigger test than this week. A great effort by Rowley who are all a nice bunch of lads, thanks for the game Pete and the lads!

Champions Church 3 St Thomas 1

Shawn Devonport reports: Today bought our last but one pre-season game against St Thomas. First of all I want to say I was impressed by St Thomas, they will be right up there in Division Two and wouldn't have looked out of place in Division One with their new signings. Mark Hadden looked an handful all game, Ash Hamer is a good player all though he had a tough time against Moody today, Stu Rogers for me is a great signing and put him self about but in general there work ethic was fantastic and I'm sure they're gonna go well. I'm sure they will agree we could have been out of sight by the end but unfortunately we were quite poor in front of goal today and the St Thomas keeper had a very good game.

After a fairly tight start with us having most of the ball and St Thomas working us all over the park we could have took the lead when a few one on ones presented themselves to Aaron but a few good blocks and low down saves at his feet meant it stayed 0-0. We took the lead through Aaron Garrington though after good work from from James and Aaron's low drive just made its way under the keeper, probably the only thing he did wrong all game. It was soon 2-0 through Matty Dormer who got on the end of a great ball from Mark Goule and arrowed one into the top corner. It was a fair reflection at half time, St Thomas hadn't created much but Hadden looked very lively and the ball just wasn't quite sticking for him. They had a few other half chances but our defence just seemed to be in the right place at the right time and get that last ditch clearance in.

Second half and it I think for the first 25 minutes we should have really gone out of sight. Aaron was presented with another three one on ones which the keeper made a good save or he mis-cued wide. Dormer had a well worked free kick blocked on the line and James had two decent chances but missed the target on both occasions, Rion forced a decent save from the keeper but then made it 3-0 with a neat chip as St Thomas appealed for offside. Both teams then made alot of changes but it was St Thomas who settled better and to be fair had us on the ropes for the last 15 minutes creating a few good chances. A corner being tipped onto the bar and countless corners and got their reward late on when Hadden nailed one and Craig tipped it on to the bar and it just went in! Gouley had a good late chance but again mis-cued.

I think on chances it should have been more than 3-1 but St Thomas battled excellently and I think any more would have been harsh on them after such a dedicated performance. Rob Moody man of the match today with an excellent performance, Revival Fires on Tuesday in our last friendly then the real stuff starts two weeks today!! Cant wait!

St Matthew's 4 Lighthouse Lions 6

Ray Rose says: Another step, for Lighthouse Lions today against, Premiership quality. Lighthouse had all the early play but as often if you don't take your chances, you will be punished. St Matt's went 1-0 up, but Lighthouse kept playing football and did not revert to long ball tactics.

We drew level through a well taken goal from Richard Maher and quickly made it 2-1 from new signing Scott Turner. Up front Adam Elcock was causing trouble with some great runs. Ben Bowen, Adam's strike partner, gave him good support and the pair of them got goals. Adam has found his scoring touch again and Ben scored for the second week running. Adam Elcock with three goals is teaming up well with Ben. Other goals from Scott Burns, who was outstanding at the heart of defence and Adam Campbell in central midfield gave us the launch-pad. Craig Marshall and Carl Jones were always on hand to make sure the midfield were always moving forward too.

St Matthews to their credit they never gave up and in the last 20 mins, reduced the lead to 5-4. We again caught them on the break to make the final score 6-4. St Matthew's were a very gracious team, who played the game in the right spirit. Good luck to them this forthcoming season.

Clarendon

Tommy Woodward says: We played our final pre-season game Saturday after a busy summer. Roger has taken a very different approach this season and it seems to be working well. With seven wins from seven games, scoring 31 and conceding seven, we are quietly confident going into Saturday's game with City Church. Thanks to Common Ground, Rowley, Amblecote, Pensnett Rangers, Bradmore FC, Potters House and Rockmount for the games. Also thanks to Louis and Selvyn who give up most of their Saturdays to listen to us lot moaning. Clarendon couldn't work without them.

Living Hope Church 5 Darkhouse 3

Steve Farley says: Living Hope led throughout this game only for Darkhouse to keep striking back to stay in the game. At 4-2 after 80 minutes Darkhouse scored with a rifling 20 yard shot to reduce the arrears to 4-3. Darkhouse then piled on the pressure in the final 10 minutes and won a succession of corners and LHC could not get out of our own half. Then with a minute to go a breakaway from one of our new players named Shane (I think) led to a perfect through ball to Lee Smith. He doesn't score many but he showed his intentions for the new season with brilliant finish, showing lots of pace in the process to give LHC a deserved win.

LHC did not have this game all their own way and Darkhouse have improved greatly since I watched them two weeks ago. LHC came out on top though and two goals each from striker Bob and also from skipper and Man of the Match Andy Parkes helped seal the win. One more friendly this coming Saturday then its back to training until the big kick off in September. Can't wait!

Lee Armstrong adds: What a nice team Darkhouse are and a very welcome addition to the league. Both team's discipline was superb.

Amblecote 2 Zion Athletic 6

Jallen says: Good game this evening. I think both teams were down a few key players but it was still a good competitive game. I think Ambelcote were a little off par tonight, but to be fair to us I think we were great going forward, FINALLY finishing the chances that we would have missed last season. Ambelcote had plenty of the ball but were not composed enough infront of goal and lacked the cutting edge they usually have, with that said we defended well for long periods and hit them on the break on numerous occasions killing off any chance of a comeback that briefly looked a possibility. I must say Matt Beech, Jon Taylor, Leon Naylor and Andrew Westwood played great together going forward it's nice to see some confidence back in our attacking play after such a difficult last season. A mention must go to Jadon who was fantastic for Ambelcote but even his magic fell short most of the time.

With last season behind us, I hope this win spells a change of fortune now that we have a bit more experience under our belt. Ambelcote I'm sure will be back to winning ways when the season starts, thanks for the game lads . Bring on the new season : )

Referees

We currently have 58 referees registered to officiate on WMCFL matches so far; I'm sure there will be more. It's nice to see Lance Blackwood back on the roster, he was part of the great Walsall Olympic side, one of WMCFL's best. And he is a great referee.

As per usual we have several people who are starting out as new referees, please bear this in mind. Our league is at the bottom tier of English football, you cannot officiate at a lower adult level. Many of these newly-qualified people will turn into good referees given the chance and just need to gain experience. As we've seen in the recent World Cup tournament, even the very best referees in the world make mistakes, so please be tolerant with our officials.

Friendly Results and Reports

Thank you to those that have taken the time and trouble to compile reports or just send results in. I know there is quite some interest as we are still getting around 400 hits a day, despite it being the close season. Although, I would say that we are now firmly in 'pre-season' mode judging from the number of games that are being played; even Rowley College are at it:

Chawn Hill Church 4 Wolverhampton and Perton Churches 0

Alfi Westwood says: An excellent team performance from Chawn but credit to Wolves who are always a tricky team to play.

Halesowen Zion 2 Amblecote 3

Simon Ashby reports: Another cracking game yesterday against two teams who finished well in Division One last year and I think looking at yesterday's game would both hope to be well inside the top half this season.

Zion had a few familiar faces missing, but we also lined up without Dozza, Mart and Spen, three of our most likely goal threats this year but despite this both teams played really well. We probably shaded the first 20 minutes and passed well (they have a brilliant new pitch at Zion which helped), and created quite a few chances, even I hit the post! But then we let two goals in, in about three minutes, both poor from our point of view but that upset our rhythm a bit.

But we have shown good team spirit all summer and quickly got back into it with a really excellent team move finished (I think) by Kit! If not apologies whoever scored. So 2-1 down at half-time but again I think we played some good football after the break and Jadon made it 2-2 with a low shot into the corner. Chances came and went at both ends and as the rain started tipping down we had both settled for a draw, but then right at the end good work from Tim Fellows on the left hand side left Kit to smash home the winner in injury time from inside the box.

Good work out for both teams and both would be confident of our chances in the coming season.

Rowley College 4 Bournbrook Athletic 3

Division Two's Player of the Season, Max Tully says: Today’s game was played on a slick pitch in near perfect conditions and it helped the passing game of both teams who both in sporadic intervals had brilliant passages of 1-2 touch football.

Bournbrook started slowly as usual and Rowley controlled the pace of the game without creating too many chances. Their first goal arrived via a long throw from a guy who could give Delap a run for his money, you would think we would learn but no they scored a second almost identically. We dug deep and got ourselves back into the game after good work from Sean Boughton led to a penalty which I stepped up and slotted. The game was starting to become more even when on the stroke of half time we gave the ball away, they broke and buried, half time 3-1 Rowley.

The second half started pretty evenly but then Bournbrook began to dominate possession with excellent passing which hopefully will be our biggest weapon this year. We made it 3-2 when the lively ‘Bizzle’ Boughton got down the left and hit a low drive into the bottom corner. The equaliser then came after good work from a throw on the left wing (I hate flick-ons) the ball fell to Nathan Pugh who went around a player and powered it in. Towards the end of the game we were still the better team and looking for a winner however Rowley are full of pace and strength and looked good on the counter. In the end Rowley broke hearts with a header from Mr Delap who scored a good header off a last minute corner.

Overall it was a game of 2 halves with two evenly matched teams battling hard and playing passing football, Rowley did a similar thing to us twice last season so we need to try and play well from the off if we want the win during the forthcoming season. Rowley will finish high up the league if they keep the same squad I’m sure, many thanks for the friendly a good bunch of lads.

MBD United 9 Charlemont Star 1

I did think that perhaps all was not well with MBD: People leaving, change of secretary etc. But this result dispells that notion. Hat-tricks from Si Larmour and TJ Muntali, and singles from Gary Jordan, Chris Raybould and Jack Chapman gave a one-sided result in favour of the Division Two side.

Karl Martin adds: First match of the new MBD United era with a new manager, a new secretary and a couple of new players, and what a great result! The plan was to play good football get some goals and keep things tight at the back, our players did not dissapoint with an emphatic 9-1 scoreline against Charlemont Star, we would of got that clean sheet if it wasn't for a 90th minute screamer!

We started brightly and had all the possesion, I recall them having one shot on goal which stand in keeper Woody saw fly high and wide! We opened the scoring after 20 minutes after a good run and cross from Gary which gave TJ a tap in. We made it two soon after when Gary got himself a goal with a nice finish. It was soon three when Chris Thomas rose highest from a corner but the keeper made a good save but Jack was on hand for a tap in. It was 4-0 five minutes later with our keeper getting an assist with a route one ball which Simon bought down beautifully and rounded their keeper for another tap in. Half time and we were in complete control and it should have been 7 or 8, unfortunately Ryan Reynolds did not have his shooting boots on missing numerous chances, but luckily we were comfortable.

We made a couple of half time subs to give a couple of the squad guys some match time, one of them making an immediate impact, Boulder scoring a nice goal in the 46th minute. It wasn't long before TJ got his second of the game, a good finish to make it 6-0. Simon then grabbed his second, with a great cross field ball from Gary, Si scuffed his shot but it still managed to find its way in as it normally does with him! TJ then got his hat-trick with a 25 yard shot which the keeper got fingertips to but it still managed to find the top corner of the net. Simon rounded off our scoring with a penalty after Gary was bought down, just going into injury time and us thinking we have a comfortable 9-0 win then bang a screamer from like 30 yards leaving our keeper with no chance at all. The full-time whistle blew not long after this, and a happy MBD bunch! We should of had alot more goals but there keeper denied Ryan on no more than like 7 or 8 occasions! Special mention to man of the match Ben Russell who was making his debut today, didn't stop running and had a hand in most things good from us today, will be a great addition to the squad, also to Gary who ran the show in the centre of midfield with a goal and three assists.

Sheldon in a couple of weeks and that'll give us more of an idea of how well we are prepared for the season. Well done to Charlemont who never gave up and tried until the end, their keeper having a great game despite conceeding nine.

Rockmount United 4 Lighthouse Lions 7

Ray Rose says: A great game. We have a young, newly formed side and were very proud of the way they handled themselves today.

Champions Church 6 Living Hope Church 0

Back to our home pitch Coneygree today and the surface was tailor-made for our passing game. Living Hope started brightly, snapping into tackles and working hard and had their best and really only chance of the game early on with Dan making a brilliant point blank save after we switched off defending a free kick. From then on in it was really one way traffic. We took the lead when Ralphy curled in a free kick, it was 2-0 when a great team move resulted in a bad keeper error and Aaron rolled into the empty net. It was 3-0 when Gouley pounced on a rebound after a good save and was 4-0 just before half time when Aaron got his second with a looped header over the Living Hope keeper after a Bamber through ball. All though it was 4-0 we were very guilty of trying to do too much and trying to beat too many players but obviously the scoreline was pleasing with us missing chances too.

Second half we played much better knocking the ball around great, Dormer who had been dropped was immense and will no doubt be back in the eleven next week with a great performance that he capped off with a long range effort. The fifth was Gouley's second goal: He took a poor touch but the finish was immense across the keeper. To be honest their keeper made a string of saves second half and we missed numerous chances, the shot count was 30 by the end and Living Hope had only made Dan make one save. They however won't be playing Division One teams next season, they have some good players, Robbie who I wish well after leaving us in the summer will do well in Division Three and Brainy is a real talent. Bob Shep has signed for him and looked a threat in the hole behind the striker. I thought Webby got about well disrupting us when possible.

Another good performance from us especially second half when we made over 10 changes giving the younger guys a game but its the clean sheet that is most pleasing. Four friendlies since we started back properly in June and only conceded the one which was a 35 yard bullet against Selly Oak.

It's St Thomas next week, hoping for another good performance but it all counts for nothing until the big kick off, just the performances are pleasant.

Steve Farley adds: Outclassed and outpaced today. Our players came off muttering 'surely they are contenders for the Division 1 title!'. Champions have some really good players and our lads had their work cut out from the first minute to the ninetieth. Nevertheless most of Champions' goals led from our own mistakes and were preventable. We need to sharpen up in defence - you never know we might get to meet this kind of calibre in the League Cup! Division 3 Living Hope had about six shots during the game and our Division One opponents had about 12 on target - the margins seem big but we will endeavour to build from this. The next two games will define our season - against new club Darkhouse and Division Two Dynamo Kingswinford and today was an excellent work out to set us up for the new season.

Many thanks to Dave Knowles for yet another excellent performance as referee and many thanks to Champions for hosting us.

Friendly Results and Reports

Many thanks to those who've sent in scores and reports. Sorry I haven't posted them until now; I refereed on Tuesday and Wednesday, so I've been kept busy.

Living Hope Church 4 Revival Fires 3

A great game of football, played just as if it was a league game on Tuesday night. From around the hour mark, right up until the end, the match was played at a high tempo, with both sides eager for the win. Living Hope have strengthened and looked good at times and Revival continue to improve. I'm sure they'll get better and better as the season progresses.

Steve Farley from LHC says: LHC are famous for conceding long distance goals and tonight we broke our record when the Revival keeper opened the scoring with a long punt down the field and with one bounce it was in. To be fair to our keeper the sun was very bright, very low and was shining right into his eyes but its one we don't care to remember! LHC settled down quickly after that and I was very pleased with the way we played - good passing, on the deck and a little bit of movement off the ball. We played ourselves back into game and before half time Robbie Cox scored his 3rd in two games. Half Time 1-1.

LHC continued their passing game in the second half but found it difficult to break down a tight Revival defence. We then paid the price when we conceded a penalty and our keeper redeemed himself with a great penalty save. The only trouble was the rebound bounced kindly back to the penalty taker who made no mistake with his second chance, 1-2 to Revival. LHC had about 10 subs tonight including some players who turned up for a trial and am pleased to say that no matter who we put on they all seemed to play in the same style. Bob ghosted in for a couple of goals and super sub Sanchez scored with his only kick of the game. Revival pulled a deserved goal back two minutes from time but LHC held on. Plenty of good performances tonight and Lee Smith won our Man of the match with a pleasing left wing display. Many Thanks to Ed for refereeing and well done to Revival who had a few players missing. I am sure they will do well this season.

City Church 3 EK Corinthia 2

Amblecote 5 Brierley Hill 1

Last night we played our old rivals Brierley Hill and despite the fact we didn't have any strikers available to us managed to win 5-1 although Brierley Hill played some good football all the way through.

For 45 minutes it was quite an even game and for Brierley Hill there were definitely some encouraging signs for the coming season with Matt Welch in goal making some excellent saves, young midfielder Scott Gillard looking good on the ball and their striker Dan Wood racing through and hitting the cross bar and it would be fair to say they were the better team for parts of the first half. We did come into a little more towards half-time but went into the break 0-0.

After the interval our fitness started to show and after ref Ed Walker gave us a penalty for a handball which Aza converted, and then Aza again scored almost direct from a corner, we started passing and moving a lot more and began to find the net regularly. A few goals followed with Squaddie smashing in from close range after a good run from Mark 'Sparky' Hughes who himself got a couple of goals from midfield. Brierley Hill did get a consolation through Andy Freeman near the end and I think both teams enjoyed the run out, played in a great spirit and it was competitive all across the park for 90 minutes.

St Mary's 2 St Thomas 0

Our tonking last week at the hands of City Church appears to have done us good, we played with much more heart last night against a typically slick St Marys. We conceded after 3 minutes and feared the worst but a resolute attitude not only kept them at bay but created chances of our own. Stu Rogers made a good debut, old man Preece repelled everything at the back and Ash worked tirelessly with Pearsall another highlight. We improved still further in the second half and fired a few shots in, if the back of the net had been situated on the adjacent wasteland thirty yards behind their goal we'd have run out comfortable winners.

They mugged us for a second goal after an hour with a ball over the top but beyond that Clements wasn't overly tested and is looking comfortable in goal. We sent on promising youngsters as subs, they sent on Sprason whose pace appears to have changed from slow to stop since I played for them! I know a good shoesmith Nick if you need the lead removing from your boots? Great referee, good spirit about the game, pride restored for St T's. Forza Tangerine!

Disciplinary Officer

I am delighted to bring you the news that Tony Bashford has accepted the role of Disciplinary Officer and joins the WMCFL Management Committee with immediate effect. Tony has been involved with the league even before it began, when it was little more than 'jumpers for goalposts' back in the seventies.

Tony was one of those lads that helped organise one off games between churches and then became instrumental in helping form the league. He played for Amblecote, Chawn Hill Church and Brierley Hill back in the day and ran Amblecote for a season or two. He suffered an injury that prevented him playing football and took up the whistle refereeing and has been one of our most consistent and able match officials. I think he's one of those lads who was good at any sport he turned his hand to; he thrashed me at badminton once!

I look forward to him joining the Committee where he will be helping us keep WMCFL a great place to play football.

Living Hope 2 Junction Ten 7

Steve Farley from Living Hope says: This was nearly a game of two halves. Eight new players in the squad and the first half was utter chaos. Not knowing some of our new players very well, I had players out of position and a new back four with no idea what a straight line was.. Enter Junction Ten - making hay whilst the sun shined and Pete Falconer had a field day. A fantastic exhibition of clinical finishing as we played him on side time after time. 5-0 down after 25 minutes!

We gradually reorganised and as Junction Ten tired (it was their first game as well) we settled. Robbie Cox scored two for us and we gave them two own goals. It could have been five goals each in the second half and I am pleased to say we created lots of chances against a very good side. Defensively there is still a lot to work to do and I have three weeks to turn us into a team. No pressure then!

Referee of the Year 2009/10

Lee Armstrong

Lee was unable to make it to our presentation night last May but we eventually managed to get his trophy to him.

A big thank you to Lee for officiating in WMCFL. Refereeing isn't easy, you get told when you get things wrong and criticised when someone doesn't see it your way. It can be a bit of a lonely job too.

But Lee did a great great job for us this year. Getting Referee of the Year isn't always about getting the best marks. Granted Lee was a good ref and was highly thought of by Club Secretaries but he was also very helpful to James, the Referees' Secretary, who decided who got the award.

Lee says: I got my trophy last Saturday and very nice it is too. Thanks to everyone at the league and good luck for the coming season. I look forward to another enjoyable year in WMCFL.

All Star Match

Division One XI 1 Division Two and Three XI 1 (D2 won 4-1 on penalties).

Shawn Devonport writes: First off all just want to say thank you to everyone who turned up today and played, the players raised over £600 in sponsorship for the Brierley Hill Project! Thanks to Ed, Tommy and Len who officiated today for us also.

I had to make a few changes after Mark Southall and Martin Woodall pulled up injured and Jamie Williams and Pete Falconer didn't make it. In came Matthew Dormer who played for EK in Division 2 last season. The game was a fantastic match to watch, both teams looked very good and it was a credit to WMCFL that we have so many fantastic players. We took the lead in the 1st minute, Dan Morris of Selly Oak latched on to a perfect ball and scored with a drilled finish to give us the lead. The first half saw us play the better stuff, we played 4-5-1 and when we got the wingers Dan and Si Lamour into the game we looked very dangerous. We were also quicker to everything 1st half with a higher work rate set by Dormer who was the engine and made everyone tick. We created the better chances on the deck and played the better stuff but I think the Division 1 lads posed the greater threat physically and looked most dangerous off set pieces with Jal, Jadon and Roger all offering a big aerial threat. They got level just before the break caught Moody a little out of position and the striker/winger made no mistake.

Second half and the Division 1 team had their best 15 minutes: They had us camped in our half but we dug in and after a few scrambles and numerous corners we managed to survive, they started to knock the ball about better and upped their work rate. We came back into it and Dave Abel hit the post and Dormer flashed wide, Lamour had a good effort blocked, Elcock nearly got in and Brainy all most snatched it at the end when put through. The best chance fell to Dan Morris who's header from a corner was about an inch over the bar. The Division One team had their chances, Atkins from City tried a few from distance but his shots were all blocked, Jadon teed up Buller from St Thomas who's effort was blocked, they had a 2 on 1 that Greg defended excellently forcing Buller wide who fired straight at Dan and Jadon played in the winger late on who again fired at the keeper.

It was on to penalties, Simon, Rion, Elcock and Brainy all took excellent penalties and Dan saved two to give us the win. It was a tight game with both teams having chances but I think everyone agreed we just about deserved it. I thought Greg Timmington was excellent for us at centre back really stepping up alongside Burford who was commanding as usual, Lamour was our best player showing fantastic technique on numerous occasions and great feet, Rion and Dormer played well and Elcock and Brainy had the thankless task up front on there own against the powerful backline. Dan Morris was a constant menace and he took his goal excellently and Andy Waddams was great in the holding roll and never stopped working. The full backs Dean, Moody and Dave Abel were all excellent aswell playing against some very good players.

I must say I thought Jal was the best player on the pitch just pipping Lamour, Jal was so commanding and composed, a great player to have in the league.

Clarification on the Format of the Competition for the Coming Season

Following discussions between the League Management Committee and BCFA, it has been agreed that subsequent to DC Dynamos' withdrawal from the League, Division Two will have eleven teams next season with the relegation places being reduced by one, and that DC Dynamos intended opponents in the League Challenge Cup will receive a bye.

Friendly Result

City Church 7 St Thomas 0

Adam Earp

I mistakenly deleted this ad from the site: My apologies. After losing Adam, Tracey and Jon Earp from Bournbrook Athletic have been fundraising for Edwards Trust, a breavement counselling service for families. Jon wrote a song in memory of Adam and for all those people who have lost someone they love. So with Edwards Trust we have produced a two track CD that can be bought direct from Tracey or through Edwards Trust by following this link. The CD cost is £3.

Friendly Result

St Matthew's 4 Darkhouse 1

Clarendon 3 Amblecote 2

Simon Ashby reports: Just a quick report on a good game last Saturday which saw a rematch of our fixture from the final day of last season.

Pre-season game typified when, with the scores at 2-2 at 12.15, Matt, the stand-in ref suggested playing til half past to get some fitness in which we all just about agreed to even if our legs didn't!

We were sporting 3 or 4 new players, and started the game really well considering and I think for the first 20 minutes looked on top although Clarendon had a few first teamers en route. But deservedly we took the lead when our returning centre forward Martin Nicholls (Who fired us to second in Division One a few years back) headed home brilliantly from a corner.

Then Clarendon came more into the game and hit an equaliser from about 35 yards into the top corner, swiftly followed by another from the same distance although that one was disallowed (thanks to Tommy from Clarendon for reffing most of game by the way!), but it was soon 2-1 when Clarendon took the lead before the break.

After half-time it was a good competitive and fun game to be involved and Jadon Silva equalised for us after about an hour. Both teams played quite well after that with Clarendon looking more dangerous to be fair, but after we all agreed to play a bit longer and almost 'next goal wins' Clarendon put one in from a set piece and we all agreed to shake hands. Bring on the season now promises to be good fun as always.

St Mary's 3 Halesowen Zion 5

Grant Doran says: The pre-season games started for us on Saturday with an away trip to St Mary's.

Both teams looked to play the ball on the ground, with the majority of play being worked through the back line into midfield and then the front line in favor of a big long ball over the top. St Mary's had the lion's share of possession creating several good chances before they finally took the lead. The goal came from a corner that was flicked on at the front post and then stabbed home from close range. To be honest at that point St Mary's were well on top, and had several clear sightings of goal to extend their lead. At the back Halesowen seemed to be struggling with marking and were getting continuously caught the wrong side of the forwards. The second goal arrived after the some neat play on the edge of the box resulting in a shot which went into the roof of the net. 25mins in and we were looking at a potential mauling but we finally sorted the marking at the back and midfield started to get a foothold in the game. Cocky scored from a sweeping move down the right wing was cut back by John Lea for him to steer the ball home from 18 yards. John Lea then got in on the scoring himself, converting a penalty after the ball was handled in the box. Dan Carver then gave us the lead after losing his marker to fire home. St Mary's were very much in the game though as they rattled the bar and had a one on one saved. HT 2-3

The second half continued in the same manner with patches of decent football, punctuated with substitutions. Tom put us further ahead after he chased a loose pass down and pressed the keeper and defender. The attempted clearance smashed into Tom and then bounced into the net to make the score 4-2. St Mary's fought back however and were awarded a penalty which they dispatched low into the bottom left hand corner. Both teams had chances to score again as mistakes started to creep in as the heat took it's toll. The final goal came with about 10 minutes left, Tom again finding space in behind the home defence and he made no mistake with his finish, sliding the ball into the corner of the net.

Overall the game was a decent workout for both teams. The pitch was a bit hard so made flowing football a little difficult but both teams worked hard and played well. With a few more games before the season starts both teams should be in a pretty good state to have a real crack at the league!

Chawn Hill Church 0 Champions Church 4

Paul Taylor adds to Shawn's report: This was the first game back of a new season for Chawn and were looking forward to the challenge of taking on the Division Two champs!! Chawn have undergone a gruelling pre-season schedule where the aim was to raise fitness, ability within the team and the addition of new key players has been a huge benefit!

Unfortunately personal commitments left Chawn fielding the bear eleven (I think he means bare?-Ed) with Neil Kovacs being sub! Also, we had a stand in keeper (special thanks to Martin Cook).

Both teams agreed to playing 3x30mins and Chawn started very slowly and found themselves 3-0 down after 10mins, each one due to individual errors. In the 2/3 adjustments were made and frailties addressed which led to a satisfactory 0-0 2nd period.

In the final third Chawn finally started to relax and put into operation what they have been practising pre-season and passed the ball round with confidence and dare I say it had Champions chasing shadows! Champions scored their 4th with 5 mins to go with Chawn dead on their heels. Chawn just lacked that final ball and match sharpness at times but have 3 pre-season friendlies planned to gain the required levels.

Champions are still a very compact and dangerous side and Chawn wish them all the best for the following season. We were happy with our overall performance and with key players returning to the side and are very positive about 2010-2011 season.

Well done to both teams.

and Paul also writes about:

Chawn Hill Church 3 EK Corintha 2

A hard fought game at South Road saw Chawn taking the win. Performances have been good of late but lapses in concentration have gifted goals costing them dearly. Unfortunately, a familiar story unfolded within 20mins as EK took a 2 goal lead, both from set pieces.

In previous games heads would have dropped and it would have been how many will we concede but in the last two games Chawn have dug deep to make a game of it. Chawn quickly pulled a goal back from the penalty spot through a Alan Shearer like penalty from Hovis. 2-1 Half-time.

In the second half Chawn were much the stronger side and had numerous chances to equalise. Alfie, Bedda and Super Kev all hit wood work but again it was Hovis from the penalty spot who smashed home the equaliser.

Chawn had their tails up and wave after wave of attacks finally resulted in Sooty scoring the winner. EK did have a half chance late on but were kept at bay by Chunk. Also, Jack, Tiggs, and the Lloyd brothers (players who don't normally get a mention) played excellent.

The game was played in a good spirit with both teams tackling hard. A special mention should go to the referee as they do come in for some stick (from me too) but a professional performance by the ref kept the game flowing and enjoyable to watch, Well done Buddy!!

Chawn travel to Solihiull next week and plan to continue their impressive performances.

Friendly Results

Sheldon beat St Matthew's 4-3 in a pre-season warm-up game last week-end.

Revival Fires 1 Bournbrook Athletic 3 Jon Earp says: The first game of our pre-season and not a bad way to start. I think the main thing we will take away from this game is the fact that we put into practice what we have been working on in training. From the first minute we were in total control, knocking the ball around at will with slick passing. We lost our centre back Jay in the first 5min to ankle injury and then went a goal down off a deflected shot against the run of play. The lads were playing great football with Taz and Max in the centre mid controlling the tempo of the game. Sean and Chris up front were causing no end of trouble with their pace and power.

We got back into the game after the break when Chris broke through to slot home off a flicked head from Max. Chris then scored another goal before Max finished the scoring off. Our defence was tight forcing their attack to shoot from 25 yards out. Revival did have a few good shots that clipped the post both in the first and second half. The score line could have been 7-1 to us but four goals were disallowed for being off side. I will never moan about the cost of having linesmen again. All in all it’s a good start to our preparations, all players did exactly what we have been working on. The challenge is to follow this up in our next game.

Friendly Report

I'm sure that there are many friendlies taking place over the close season. Feel free to write a report or even just text me a result.

Champions Church 4 Chawn Hill Church 0

Shawn Devonport says: Pre-season game number four and with it our fourth win under our belt. At times it was a very frustrating game for us, we deserved the win creating numerous chances but it was very sloppy at times and not anywhere near to the standard we played at last week against Selly Oak.

We played three periods of 30 minutes as requested by Chawn and it was the first 30 minutes where the damage in terms of the scoreline was done. We went 1-0 up when Chawn defended a corner poorly and Steve Burford made it two in two with a header at the far post. It was soon 2-0 when the ball bobbled out to Rob Moody and he volleyed into the ground and scored his second of pre-season from right back, a very well taken goal. 25 minutes in and it was soon 3-0 when Rion got on the scoreline after some fantastic work from Dormer and his cross wasn't held by the Chawn keeper. Rion was on hand to make it 3-0. The scoreline slightly flattered us, Chawn had chances of their own, they hit the post, Dan made a fantastic save and Jamie Sutton fired straight at the keeper. We did create other openings and deserved the lead but not to be in front by three goals.

Second period and there wasn't a goal to talk about. We played our best stuff in this period playing the ball around well and hitting the bar, missing two open goals and forcing the keeper into a few stops as well as trying to walk the ball in on too many occasions. Chawn had a couple of half chances but nothing of note for Dan to worry about.

Third period and we changed things around significantly and to be honest both teams seemed to falter a little. Chawn had a few very good breaks but their final ball let them down and we had a few decent oppurtunities hitting the post but nothing of any real note except for Aaron getting on the score sheet after a great move and a fantastic finish from him!

All in all, another good work out, we didn't play as well as we could but a lot of that goes down to how much Chawn pressed us and closed us down, they made it very difficult for us to play and I'm sure they were missing a few guys so they should be encouraged also being as it was their first game of pre season. It was a competitive game with a few strong tackles from both sides but both teams just got on with it.

We have a week off next week, for anyone not doing anything get down to the Dell for the Division One all star team vs division 2/3 all star team, promises to be a great game and for a great cause! Week after it's Living Hope and we welcome back Jim Wilkes and Timmy Bamber who were missing from today!

All Star Team

Please see the note below concerning the Charity Match. Shawn's team from Division Two and Three is: Dan Greatrex - Champions Church, Dean Palmer - Selly Oak, Greg Timmington - Champions Church, Steve Burford - DC Dynamos, Pete Falconer - Junction 10 Village, Mark Southall - Rowley College, Jamie Williams - Selly Oak, Rion Francis Mills - Champions Church, Daniel Morris - Selly Oak, Simon Lamour - MBD Utd, Adam Elcock - Lighthouse Lions, Rob Moody - Champions Church, Martin Woodall - Junction 10 Village, Andrew Waddams - Dynamo Kingswinford, Dave Abel - Dynamo Kingswinford, Nathan Brain - Living Hope Church.

I think they are going to win.

DC Dynamos

It is with deep regret that I have to inform you that DC Dynamos have decided to fold. At this point in time no decision has been made by the Committee regarding how the league will look without DC but in previous cases and at this stage of the proceedings we usually just take DC out of Division Two.

I will be confirming the situation in due course.

Charity Match

A charity game will be taking place next Saturday 7 August to raise money for the Brierley Hill Project Charity. The game is being played at The Dell Stadium, Bryce Road, Brierley Hill, kick off is at 10.30am.

The Brierley Hill Project is a community support centre that addresses the needs of people in the heart of one of the most deprived areas in the West Midlands.

They aim to make a difference to the community by providing services to those people often marginalised within society and their Christian ethos places the needs of people at the heart of what they do. Their centre will become the community hub of the Chapel Street Housing Estate, through which each individual life will reach its maximum potential. http://www.brierleyhillproject.org.uk/

The football match consists of a Jadon Silva XI against a Shawn Devonport XI. Jadon’s team selection is from Division 1, while Shawn has made his selection from Divisions 2 and 3.

The squad for the Jadon Silva XI consists of:

Jadon Silva Amblecote, Simon Ashby Amblecote, Marc Buller St Thomas, Dan Cashmore St Thomas, Roger Moore Clarendon, Grant Doran Halesowen Zion, Dan Carver Halesowen Zion, Aaron Mullin Kings, Richard Ricketts Kings, Dan Atkins City, Jonathon Sheppard City, Jonathan Allen Zion.

There are still one or two places left in this team. If anyone fancies a game, please call me on 07921 891298. Shawn to announce his team shortly.

A special thanks to each player who is attending, as each player has committed a £30 donation to the charity. You are very generous gents! Please come along to support this game if you can. Admission is free. If you wish to make a contribution, please visit: http://www.justgiving.com/Jadon-Silva007

Friendly Results

Champions Church 5 Selly Oak Methodist 1

Shawn Devonport says: Our first real test today against the team who matched us last season and over the two games last season it was three points a piece, so just what we need as we step pre-season up!! Selly Oak were missing a couple, especially Luke Bird who I think is a cracking centre half, but we were missing Ralphy, Jim Wilkes, myself and three others so I think we were both a couple short but both fielding strong teams.

Selly Oak started stronger and were 1-0 up within five minutes: Lawrence Belgrave picked up the ball from 35 yards out and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner giving Dan no chance. We then had two good chances, James firing straight at the keeper from 10 yards and Rion having a shot blocked. Selly oak almost made it 2-0 when they smashed the cross bar from 30 yards again through Dean Palmer this time. I think we started to turn the screw at this point. After some good work out wide left James squared for Rion who finished well from the edge of the box. It was soon 2-1 when Aaron finished off a great team move with an unstoppable drive from 15 yards out. We started to take a hold of the game in centre midfield with Rion and Dormer bossing things and Timmy Bamber sweeping up well in the middle and it was soon 3-1 with Aaron getting his second after more good work from James. 35 minutes gone and we made it 4-1 with Gouley getting on the score sheet after Rion created another opening. Selly Oak went close when Jamie hit the bar with an header but after the first 10 minutes we had bossed proceedings and deserved the lead.

Second half and it was soon 5-1. Steve Burford rose from a James corner and his attempt was blocked but he hammered in the rebound for a goal on debut. After this the game became more disjointed, Selly Oak took off their star man Jamie and soon after we took off Rion. Both teams had oppurtunities to score with Dan making a smart stop and Selly Oak missing a sitter when three were in on goal, and the Selly Oak keeper got down to a few well to save two one on ones. Both teams made changes, we gave a few of our younger guys the last 20 minutes and the game seemed to fizzle out last 10 minutes with both teams trying to add more to the scoreline!

It was Selly Oak's first match of pre-season so they were understandably rusty but they still looked lively and I'm sure they will tighten up at the back. I think they are missing Carl Jones from last season quite alot but I don't expect them to struggle at all and will be a match for anyone. I was very happy with our guys, a slow start but after that we deserved the win and were actually playing some excellent stuff!! A couple of special mentions, Steve Burford immense on debut, didn't miss an header all game and played well with Greg and Luxton had his best game in a champions shirt at left back to stake his claim. James in his first proper match was excelent beating players for fun and claiming three assists, a very exciting player. Aaron took his goals well and I could go on and on but all in all a great team performance.

Chawn next week in our third match of pre season so we aim to step it up.

Revival Fires 3 Lighthouse Lions 1

I've refereed Revival twice this pre-season and the difference in the two matches was noticeable. They have a big squad but were more settled today and seemed to be more aware of what their first team will look like come September. Whilst Revival are well into their pre-season, Lighthouse are just starting theirs. To be fair, I felt that the teams were well matched but Lighthouse were ringing the changes with some of their stronger players sitting out for half the game.

Nevertheless, Revival took the lead early on and then added to it just before half time. Lighthouse brought on several players at half time and seemed to be back into the game as a free-kick floated towards the back post was touched in. But Revival came back with their lad finishing strongly to leave the score 3-1 after 90 minutes, a scoreline they deserved but I'm sure Lighthouse will be there or thereabouts come 4 September.

Both sides had excellent centre-halves who dominated their piece of the park. The Revival lad was heading everything away and the Lighthouse chap was equally as dominant in the air but was cool with his feet too.

Shawn Devonport said to me today that he thinks Revival will win Division Three. It's early days but they are progressing in the right direction. I think they'll enjoy the season.

Fixtures

I am in the process of adding match officials that our Referees' Secretary James Orotayo has appointed to the fixtures for September. Whislt mutual back-slapping can be a bit tiresome, I have to say James and Shawn Devonport the Fixtures Secretary are doing a marvellous job. We are lucky to have these boys; they are efficient and accurate.

Next time you see them, just say a quick 'thank-you' for the work they do.

Charlemont Star 0 Pye Green Towers 3

Having started our pre-season with a run in with Champions who are arguably one of the best sides in the league we were keen to boost our confidence today. I’m told that Charlemont Star were in the WMCFL years ago and have recently reformed with some loose connections to their past. They played their first match on Thursday and lost 2-1 to Walsall Council but didn’t have a clue what this was to mean to us.

The first 25 minutes saw both teams battle fairly evenly but I think it was fair to say that it was only us that had one or two realistic chances. It was around the 25 min mark that our London import Wayne Taylor (another success story for the web site) battled hard down the right wing to cross in a low cross which landed perfectly on Dave Wright's quiff to but us ahead. A second soon followed with Wayne Taylor intercepting a pass then running one on one with the Charlemont keeper and perfectly chipping it over him. The third was slotted in just before half time which was a result from (I think) Dave Wright hitting it at the keeper who couldn’t quite get a grasp and it slipped between his arms.

The second half was fairly nondescript. Charlemont were much better in defence but struggled to make much on the counter attack. We had no less than 15 corners in the half, given by a team eager not to make any more slips. Unfortunately we were missing Gaz Darby who would have put away about 5 of the shots we missed in this half. Charlemont are a very pleasant team to play, they never gave up and they seem to have 2 or 3 very skilled players amongst them. What helped us today was that as a team we probably weighed half a ton heavier than they did and had an average age 5 years higher than theirs. I look forward to seeing them later in the season.

If anyone would like a friendly, we are free virtually every Saturday now, please get in touch with Matt Drury our new club secretary, his details are in the book.

New Grounds for the Zion Teams

All three teams from Zion Christian Centre are moving where they play their home matches for next season: Zion Athletic and Sporting Zion will be playing at George Salter Collegiate Academy (I think that means school) in West Bromwich. And Halesowen Zion are going to play at the Lea Castle pitches near Wolverley between Stourbridge and Kidderminster.

Champions Church 4 Pye Green Towers 0

Shawn Devonport writes: It was hard to write about today's game as it was a little bit of a mis-match but I write when we're poor so I'll write when were good.

Both teams appeared low on numbers with Pye green having 12 and ourselves 13, so with the hot weather the guys all got a work out. Well as far as the game went first half we saw four efforts cleared of the line last ditch which summed up the half really. We bossed the possession which with the hot weather didn't help Pye Green who seemed to go minutes without the ball at times, the goal we did score was from good work from Rion Mills out wide left and Joe Smith was on hand to convert. Aaron had missed a couple of decent openings and Joe should have done better missing an open goal, Greg thompson just delayed also and missed his oppurtunity. 1-0 half times.

Second half was pretty much the same except we created alot more chances, Dormer had at least 5 efforts of his own hitting the post on one occasion, Gouley missed an open goal and Lee Ralph had two chances blocked. Aaron Missed another two gilt edged chances and Rion should have done better when given time and space in the box. That aside we did score another three, Aaron getting on the scoresheet with two clinical finishes and a complete rareity, Tim Bamber hitting the target from 25 yards with his LEFT FOOT and the ball flew in!!!

Unfortunately for Pye Green they didn't have a shot of note, Dan came and claimed a few crosses and a few corners and dropped one to present them with their only opportunity which was cleared off the line. This being said, to be beaten so convincingly and still have perfect attitudes and still battle tells you much about their team and the character they showed, also very gracious in defeat.

Rion and Dormer were immense today and Timmy Bamber settled into the holding role brilliantly. Aaron was a handful up front and deserved his two goals. Also Joe Smith and Greg Thompson had ntheir best games for CCFC. Back to the training ground next week.

All Time Top Scorers

I have finally updated the All Time Top Scorers chart in the Archive files. It's getting to be a bigger and bigger job these days with record numbers of clubs. I have recorded 970 different scorers since I began keeping records back in 2003. This'll be the eighth season.

Way out in front is Shawn Devonport with 147. He's had a bit of a set-back during the close season and he'll be playing in Division One next year, so I would imagine he won't manage over forty again. Fellow ton-up members are Mark Hadden and Martin Nicholls on 118 and 106 and then there's another big gap to Tom Doran in fourth. Everton Morrison is in fifth, catching up with the front-runners on 78.

I still have 25 lads who have managed to score in every season.

The League Cup 2010/11

The League Cup for 10/11 will take a similar format for the coming season: It's a straight knock-out again. There are four matches in Round One which whittles us down to 32 teams for Round Two.

A major change is that we revert back to drawing each round at the bi-monthly league meetings, so the sixteen who progress into Round Three don't know who they are playing and won't until well into the autumn.

The Constitution of the Competition for 2010/11

...Or to put it more simply: Who is in what division for next season: