Our roving match reporter this season is Keith. Many thanks to him.

Sunday 29th January v Betley at the King George Playing Fields

On a cold, frosty morning we finally kicked off our competitive fixtures for 2012. We started brightly and had several good chances with Robbie and Ally both having shots cleared off the line then Foz, making his League debut for us, almost scored with a strong header from a corner. We were having the majority of the possession and eventually this paid off when Chris scored direct from a corner. Shortly after we made it 2-0 when Ally burst through the defence after good work from Kieran and slotted home. It stayed at 2-0 until half time. The second half started with us again in control, Betley hardly threatening our goal at all, Tom D was having a great game in midfield and twice in succession almost scored but had a shot hit the post and then scrambled off the line but his determination was rewarded when he raced through the Betley defence to fire home past their keeper making it 3-0. Loz then almost scored from 35 yards with a fantastic volley which hit the post and then Toby broke through the defence but the ball was again scrambled off the line. As the game neared the end, Adam scored from a tight angle to make it 4-0 and it stayed that way to the final whistle. A very good team performance on a difficult, heavy pitch. Man of the match was Tom D for his tenacious performance and great goal.

Saturday 21st January v Stapeley (friendly) at King George Playing Fields

Our first match since early December was a friendly, arranged to give some much needed match practice. Strong winds were the order of the day which made good football a difficult proposition; that said, we were generally a little ring rusty from the enforced break. We dominated the early play, with much of the game being played in the opposition half. Kieran almost got through the Stapeley defence but couldn’t latch on to a through ball. A great through ball from Ellis found Robbie but his attempt just missed the target and Ellis himself had a shot which went wide of the post. As the half wore on we continued to have the upper hand but were unable to create any clear cut chances; Tom D coming closest with a shot which just went too high and Kieran was also just wide of the mark after some fine work by Ellis. We were made to defend a little more towards the end of the half but held on and so the whistle for the break came with the match still goalless. The second half got under way and we were soon back on the attack; Tom D’s turn and shot in the first minute brought a decent save from the Stapeley keeper. Loz also had a shot saved, but we broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second period when some quick thinking turned defence into attack as Lewis S passed the ball to Ellis whose pass found Adam, who in turn found the net. A goalmouth scramble following a corner almost resulted in us going 2 goals ahead but it was not to be. A series of corners followed but again we were unable to take advantage. Some fine work by Tom D on the left hand side was rewarded as he passed to Loz who duly finished off for a 2-0 lead. The two goal cushion didn’t last long though as Stapeley caught us off guard and made the score 2-1. There was to be no further scoring though and we ran out 2-1 winners.

Sunday 4th December v Alsager Corinthians at Ruskin School

Ruskin Sports College was the venue for this home league tie versus Alsager Town Corinthians. The pitch at Ruskin is very short and narrow and conditions were not ideal, with a stiffening breeze. The match started quite evenly with neither team able to create much space and our first real effort came on 11 minutes when a great ball from Lewis D found Ali, whose shot - under pressure from a defender - went wide of the post. As the end to end pattern of the game continued, it took two good saves from Lewis S to keep us level, firstly a brave save on the ground from the feet of a Corinthians attacker, and followed shortly afterwards by a good save after a free kick which was on target. On the attacking front, a good ball from Tom J was close to getting Kieran through, but he was thwarted by a defender, and the same player went close after getting his head to a Lewis D corner, which only just missed the target. Our defence continued to hold firm as chances continued to be few and far between at both ends, but our best effort was a wonderful shot from distance by Kieran, which was headed high into the net until the Corinthians keeper did well to tip it onto the top of the bar and out of danger. Lewis D had a shot which just missed the target soon after, but we were to go 1-0 down just before the end of the first half as Corinthians managed to create an opening. There was still time for Lewis S to make another good save from yet another free kick before the half time whistle went. The wind seemed to get even stronger in the second half and this made it difficult for both teams to keep possession, but we continued to work hard to try and find an opening and Tom J finished off a fine run with an effort which just cleared the bar. Tom D also had a shot after a run, but this was saved, and Jack also had a shot saved as time was running out. The match ended with the score still at 1-0; a narrow defeat in a match which could have gone either way. Man of the Match went to Tom J for a fine show at the back.

Sunday 27th November v Cruventus at King George Playing Fields

A windy and cold morning at the King George Playing Fields for our away fixture against Cruventus. Despite the conditions, we started brightly and were soon on the offensive; an early cross from Jack causing problems in the Cruventus defence. With just 3 minutes on the clock we went ahead after a super strike from Tom D from the edge of the box went high into the net. We continued to press in the early stages and Ali had a shot which went just the wrong side of the post. However, Cruventus got back on level terms after just 8 minutes when they shot home with their first attack of the game. The cross wind was having a marked effect on the match for both sides but we continued to try to play good football. A great ball from Lewis D found Tom D but this time the keeper saved his shot. Some good passing to get us in behind the defence was not rewarded and we couldn’t find the net to get back in front. A good opportunity presented itself when Kieran was tripped in the area when he was through on goal and the referee awarded us a penalty. However, luck wasn’t on our side as Ali’s spot kick was kept out by the keeper. This seemed to revive our determination and we got back on top after a rather more even spell. Ali and Tom D both went close after we had got through but again we were denied. The half time whistle went with the scores level at 1-1. An early second half effort by Cruventus was well saved by Lewis S but we again had the better of play and Chris nearly got in on goal but the defender did enough to ensure the shot missed the target. Kieran was almost through too but again couldn’t get a shot after the keeper narrowly won a race for the ball and Tom D almost repeated his first half goal with a shot which just cleared the bar. With a little over 10 minutes remaining we got the decisive goal when Tom D struck his and our second of the day to put us 2-1 up and we held firm as Cruventus tried to press forward towards the end. A hard earned victory then to complete the double over Cruventus this season and give us a very useful 3 points as we try to catch the teams above us. Tom D was voted man of the match after 2 splendid goals and a hard-working display.

Sunday 20th November v Betley FC at Shavington High School

After a two week break, we were raring to get into the action once more. A cool morning for this league match against Betley was soon forgotten as we started out on the front foot, having much the better of the early exchanges. Ellis was first to go close as he nearly got on the end of a through ball. We forced a number of corners as we sought to press home our advantage and a Lewis D corner was met by TJ but his fine header narrowly missed the target. Another Ellis shot went just wide and a good effort from Robbie was well turned round the post by the in-form Betley keeper. Shortly after this Tom D managed to put the ball in the net but his effort was ruled out for offside. It was only a matter of time before we got ourselves ahead though and a neat pass from Kieran found Tom D, whose fine shot went high into the net for the opener. As we continued to dominate the Betley keeper made another good stop but he couldn’t keep out a second goal after some fine work by TJ to get a cross in was rewarded when Kieran slotted home. Ellis had another effort ruled out for offside before the break, but the score stayed at 2-0 as the whistle went. We changed formation for the second half and went to three at the back and this paid dividends just 2 minutes later Ellis scored for a 3-0 lead. Adam then scored a quick double, the second of which was a fine headed finish, to give us a 5-0 lead. The same player was unlucky not to complete a rapid hat-trick when the offside flag went up again and another goal was ruled out. Toby then went close and the keeper just his fingers to another Ellis shot to deny us another goal. Loz managed to open his account for a 6-0 lead, before various other efforts went close. The match went much quieter towards the end as we opted to try players in different positions. A comprehensive win after dominating the game from start to finish which included many good individual performances, but it was Adam who took the man of the match trophy home after a fine display and two goals.

Sunday 6th November v Crewe FC at Shavington High School

Luckily the morning fog which greeted us on our arrival at Shavington School cleared sufficiently to allow our return fixture against Crewe FC to go ahead. The early part of the match was quite quiet for us, but Kieran almost got through after just 5 minutes. There were few clear cut chances being created but then Crewe FC took the lead on 18 minutes. Undeterred by this setback, we quickly got level when Ali took his chance after some good work by Kieran. Things got better for us five minutes later when Robbie played a great ball in to Kieran who took his chance well to give us a 2-1 advantage. As the half wore on, we began to get more possession in forward positions and so the half time whistle went with us 2-1 in front. We started the second half on the front foot, with Kieran crossing well after some good work down the right wing and we forced a couple of corners as the pressure mounted, but at the other end it took a fine save from Lewis S from a Crewe FC free kick to keep us ahead. We continued to have the better of play though and Lewis D’s effort from distance just missed the target; quickly followed by a shot from Kieran after a fine pass from Lewis D. More attempts followed as a superb ball from Loz found Kieran, whose effort just cleared the bar and Tom D just shot wide after a ball from Robbie. Our defence was holding the opposition well, but Lewis S made a fantastic save to tip over a goal-bound shot from Crewe FC. Two more fine saves followed just a few minutes later to keep the score at 2-1. As the game opened out, Adam had a shot go close and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet after having a goal ruled out for offside, despite a well-taken finish. The game was to take a cruel twist for us with just a minute left on the clock, as the referee rather harshly awarded a penalty against us for handball. Lewis had no chance with the spot kick and there was no time left to do anything more. A 2-2 draw then was the final scoreline. A fine team performance today probably merited a better result but it was not to be. Man of the Match was Lewis S for his string of fine saves in the second half.

Sunday 30th October v Bank Rovers U16’s (friendly) at the Barony

A gap in the fixtures allowed this friendly fixture to be arranged against Bank Rovers, who usually play in the Under 16’s section of our league. It was a bright October morning at the Barony, but the early part of the match was a fairly quiet affair. Our opponents settled into the game quickly and were pressing for an early breakthrough but we held firm at the back.  Not to be outdone, we started to get into the game and Ali almost got through but was denied by the Bank Rovers defence. A good free kick from Tom J from inside his own half got into a dangerous area but again the ball was cleared. Another good ball into the area, this time by Tom D from wide on the left, was nearly finished by Chris but the keeper was alert. At the other end, we cleared well after a goalmouth scramble, following a Bank Rovers corner. We continued pressing and some great running down the wing from Tom J again produced a dangerous cross; this time Ellis’s effort was just over the bar. We were creating chances but the opening goal came out of nothing, as Lewis D fired a superb long range shot past the keeper to give us a 1-0 advantage. Further efforts followed as Ellis’ shot on the turn was saved by the keeper and Matty had a go too. Great work down the left wing by Kieran resulted in yet another dangerous ball into the box, which Ellis got onto the end of, only for his header to clear the bar. As we neared the end of the first half we had another couple of half chances but Lewis S produced a fine save to keep us ahead. Early in the second half a Lewis D free kick was saved. We continued in the same vein, probing forward when we could and defending resolutely to keep our lead. The scores stayed the same until around 15 minutes into the half, when we were awarded a penalty kick for a foul. Kieran confidently put the spot kick away for a 2-0 lead, and things got better just a couple of minutes later when Tom D won the ball near the bye line after some excellent persistence and his pass was met by Toby to give us a 3-0 lead. Matty had another shot saved and Jordan’s clearance from well inside his own half was on target and almost bounced over the keeper. The wind had seemed to get up at this point and judging the flight of the ball was more difficult. It wasn’t long after this that a penalty was awarded against us for a foul in the area, but another smart save from Lewis S kept the ball out from the spot. However, just after this we did concede to make the score 3-1. Undeterred, we continued to press and Ellis’ shot was well saved by the keeper. We were awarded another penalty, this time for handball, and Ellis took this one, which he duly finished for a 4-1 lead. There was still time for Ali to have another fine effort, which was tipped onto the bar by the keeper, before the final whistle blew with the final score at 4-1. A good confidence booster for us ahead of the resumption of our league programme next weekend, and some good performances, especially as some players were not playing in their usual positions.

Sunday 16th October v Crewe FC at King George Playing Fields

Our first visit to the King George Playing Fields this season brought a generally pleasant morning for today’s fixture. A bright opening saw us applying some early pressure to the Crewe FC goal with Ali having a shot at goal. A free kick taken by Lewis D found the head of TJ, whose effort went narrowly wide with the Crewe FC keeper nowhere near it. Continuing our start, Tom D’s shot went just over the bar. However, rather against the run of play, Crewe FC took the lead after 15 minutes. The rest of the first half was a fairly even affair with few chances at either end; though Ali was harshly called offside when breaking through, so we went into the second half still one goal adrift. Early pressure again in the early part of the second half saw us unable to find the net after a goalmouth scramble as we continued to press for an equaliser and Chris had a lob shot which just cleared the bar. We were then awarded a penalty after a poor challenge on Lewis D, but Ellis’ effort was parried by the keeper. From the resulting corner, Toby had a header which again just cleared the bar. We changed to a more attacking formation and had much the better of play. A second penalty was awarded to us; this time Tom D stepped up but his effort was again kept out by the keeper. As time was running out we were dominating the play and TJ had an effort cleared off the line in the dying seconds. However hard we tried, we just couldn’t get the goal our play deserved and so a good performance went unrewarded as we slipped to a 1-0 defeat. A change in the fixtures means that we will have an early chance to make up for this as we face the same opponents in three weeks’ time. Robbie was again named man of the match for a commanding display in the midfield.

Sunday 9th October v Alex Soccer Centre at the Soccer Centre

It was a mild morning at the Soccer Centre for our latest visit there, this time for a league encounter. There were no real chances in the opening few minutes for either side with a fair bit of midfield play. However, this was to change in rather dramatic fashion as we went behind on 9 minutes, only to conceded again shortly afterwards, leaving us an uphill task from early in the game. We never really got our game going to any extent and went 3-0 and then 4-0 down within 25 minutes. It after this that we started to show some more resistance and Tom D had a shot which went just wide just before the break. The half time whistle came with us still trailing 4-0. The second half got under way, but our plight got worse when we went 5 and then 6 behind in quick succession. To our credit we continued to battle and as the game wore on we were able to keep possession better and were probing looking for an opening. The break for us came at the half way point in the half when Laurence broke down the right and finished superbly from a tight angle to give us some consolation. We looked much brighter after this and we created a couple of half chances as Kieran almost got on the end of a good break, just being denied by the Soccer Centre keeper. Ellis also came close to getting on the end of a cross but was again denied. There was no further scoring however and the game ended 6-1. Overall, there were some positives to take from the game and the Man of the Match was awarded to Robbie after a close vote.

Sunday 2nd October v Appleton Boys (away, Cheshire Junior Cup 2nd round) at Stretton Road Ground, Warrington

A good playing surface greeted us as we travelled to just outside Warrington to take on Appleton Boys in the Second Round of the Cheshire Junior Cup, though the weather was less than perfect, with some unexpected drizzle. The first few minutes was a fairly even affair, but we were soon 1-0 down as we were rather caught napping by Appleton. Worse was to come and we found ourselves two adrift inside ten minutes – not the start we were looking for. The half progressed without us  really getting into gear, although we defended resolutely and our opponents had few clear cut chances to increase their lead, with James dealing well with any shots which came his way. We were kicking slightly downhill in the second half and our performance was much better, with us getting more of the ball higher up the pitch and continuing to defend well. We were unlucky not to get a goal back with 15 minutes left as TJ’s header hit the bar following a corner. More encouragement followed as Lewis D had a shot stopped by their keeper after some great work by Jack down the right side. However, we were unable to find a way back into the game and the final score stayed at 2-0 and our cup run ended. Man of the Match was Lewis D for a sterling display in midfield.

Sunday 25th September v Alex Soccer Centre (League Cup 1st round) at the Soccer Centre

We arrived at a rather damp Soccer Centre for this match on the back of some decent results and so hopes were high of causing an upset. The start was fairly even and although the Soccer Centre enjoyed territorial advantage, we held firm with no clear chances being presented to the opposition. The first significant chance came on 15 minutes when Lewis S made a superb save at point blank range to deny our opponents the lead. As the half wore on we started to get more possession a little further up the pitch and were still restricting the Soccer Centre to half chances. The score therefore remained at 0-0 as half time arrived. More stubborn defending was required after the restart, but we went 1-0 down after the Soccer Centre scored following the award of a rather debatable free kick (one of several during the game, none of which went in our favour). Shortly after we went 2-0 down and after Adam had nearly reduced the arrears with a fine long-range effort which just cleared the bar, we found ourselves 3-0 adrift. To our credit we kept working hard to keep the score down and got to the end of the match without conceding again. Overall a fine defensive display for the vast majority of the game, and it was no surprise that defenders featured highly in the Man of the Match voting, which was narrowly won by Jordan for his tireless effort at centre half.

Sunday 18th September v Alsager Town Corinthians at Wood Bank, Alsager

A fine and bright morning greeted us as we arrived for our first ever fixture at Wood Park in Alsager to play against  Alsager Town Corinthians. We started brightly and were unfortunate not to get ahead very early on as Ali broke through and just missed the target. The same player was to come even closer the very next minute when his great effort came back off the post. We weren’t having it all our our way though and Corinthians forced a number of corners and almost took the lead themselves when they were through on goal only for TJ to get back and superbly clear the ball off the line. We continued to create problems for our opponents and a great effort by Loz was well saved by their keeper. From the resulting corner, Lewis D’s header just cleared the bar. Not long after this we deservedly took the lead when Robbie finished smartly after a Lewis D free kick was well nodded on by Ellis. Another effort, this time by Ellis, went over the bar again. The game quietened down towards the end of the first half but Ali was again unlucky when a shot across the goal was tipped wide. We went into the break 1-0 up and perhaps feeling that we could have been more in front. Corinthians upped their game in the second half and we found ourselves under more pressure and creating fewer chances, although we had a strong claim for a penalty turned down by the referee after Ali was taken out by a defender when going for goal. We defended resolutely but were pegged back with around 15 minutes to go when a through ball was finished off by Corinthians and was converted for an equalising goal. The game ended frantically with both sides pushing for a winner but it was not to be and the game ended in a 1-1 draw. There were some good performances today against physical opponents, but man of the match went to Toby for another solid display at centre back.

Sunday 11th September v Cruventus at Mirrion Street

It was a mostly fine morning with a light breeze for our first league game of the new season against Cruventus. The start was a fairly even affair with few chances at either end. The nearest we came to opening the scoring in the early part of the game was Ellis with a shot which went wide after a good pass from Lewis D. However, we then opened the scoring in spectacular style with Adam netting superbly from long distance to give us a 1-0 advantage. We weren’t having it all our own way at 1-0 and it took a magnificent mazy run and neat finish from Robbie to double our lead. Ellis was close to making it three with a free kick from the edge of the area which went narrowly wide. The game continued to be end to end and Cruventus got back into it before the break with a goal of their own. That made the half time score 2-1 and a tight second half was in prospect. In only the first minute of the second half we almost doubled our lead when a goalmouth scramble was just cleared by our opponents before we could finish it off. A few minutes later we did make it 3-1 when Ellis scrambled the ball home after some excellent work by Laurence (making his debut for Brookfield). However, Cruventus refused to lie down and they scored again to make the score 3-2 with around 25 minutes still to go. A tense finish was in prospect until Ellis scored his second and Brookfield’s fourth following a free kick by Lewis D. With a two goal cushion once again restored we managed to finish the game in more comfort and the final whistle went with the score at 4-2.  A useful 3 points to set us off for the season without us ever really playing to our potential. Still, there were some good performances and Man of the Match was Robbie for a steely display in the centre of midfield and a well worked individual goal.

Tuesday 6th September v Stone Dominoes (friendly) at Springbank Park, Stone

We were pleased to be invited to play a friendly against Stone and were impressed on our arrival at their great set-up - 10/15 good quality pitches. With a lack of numbers due to player unavailability we had two guests playing, Loz and Lewis. Chris put us in front early on with a well taken goal and this was followed soon after by Ellis tapping one in for 2-0. We then missed a penalty but Chris soon had the ball in the net again for 3-0 and then Adam got in on the act putting us up 4-0 and that was the score at half time. In the second half we followed up with a goal feast during a horrendous rain storm, Ally with a couple, Ellis with 3 more, Tom D, Toby and an ‘own goal’ all scored as we totally dominated the game. As the weather worsened, it became hard to see in the dark and with the heavy rain so the ref called time early but a very convincing win as we look forward to our first League game this Sunday.

Sunday 4th September v Congleton Hotspur (Cheshire Junior Cup, 1st round) at Back Lane, Congleton

We started the game at a good tempo and were soon going close to opening the scoring – Kieran blocking a clearance from the Congleton keeper in the second minute only for the ball to get away from him. Shortly after that we again went close, Kieran hitting the bar and Matty hitting the post. Further shots followed as we continued to dominate but we could not get the all-important opener. This carried on for most of the first half without our goal coming under any sustained pressure as we restricted our opponents to a couple of corners and our defence was holding firm. Just before half time Ellis latched on to a cross from TJ but was brought down in the area and we were awarded a penalty. The resulting spot kick was well converted by Ellis to finally give us the lead and the half time score was 1-0. We started the second half well and went 2-0 up very quickly thanks to a goal from Adam following a corner taken from Matty. A couple of minutes later it was 3-0 when Kieran scored after being sent through by a pass from Chris. Continuing to have the better of play we made it 4-0 with a good header by Toby following a corner kick (Toby’s first goal for Brookfield!) and Ellis went close with a free kick which sailed just over the bar. We took out foot off the pedal a little towards the end of the match but still managed to net again before then end when Kieran ran through and finished neatly. A late change in goal was needed as James was forced to go off, so thanks to Toby for stepping in between the sticks. Overall some good performances and a pleasing clean sheet to start the season. Kieran was named as man of the match for his two goals and fine overall display.

Sunday 24th July - Stockport Junior Blues Tournament at Wilmslow High School, Wilmslow

We entered two teams at U15’s level in this tournament which we were entering for the first time. Both teams played in large groups giving them seven matches before the final rounds. The tournament was really well organised with nice sized pitches.

Our ‘East’ squad was Toby, Ben, Matty, Lewis, Tom, Elis and Matty Mac. Their results were v Stockport Junior Blues North drew 0-0; v Eastham Rangers won 3-0 ( Tom (2), Matty); v Wilmslow Albion North drew 0-0; v Great Moor North drew 0-0; v Cheadle & Gatley lost 1-0; v Great Moor United won 2-0 (Ellis (2)); v Lostock drew 1-1 (Lewis); Quarter Final v Chorlton Boys lost 2-0.

Our ‘West’ squad was James, Robbie, Toby, Ally, Kieran and Dean. Their results were v Stockport Junior Blues South drew 1-1 (Dean pen); v Hazel Grove Blue won 1-0 (Ally), v Great Moor South lost 1-0; v Orrys South won 1-0 (Ally); v Wilmslow Albion South won 1-0 (Dean); v Urmston Town drew 1-1 (Ally); v Chorlton Boys lost 2-0; v Great Moor City lost 1-0.

Sunday 17th July v Winsford Diamonds at Knights Grange Leisure Complex, Winsford

This was the first time we’d played against Winsford and at Knights Grange, the weather was horrible, very wet and windy. The early exchanges were end to end and it took 20 minutes before we made a breakthrough with Dean hitting a long strike to put us 1-0 up and then shortly before half time Kieran went on a fantastic run from our own half before slotting the ball away to make it 2-0 which was the half time score. Winsford pulled one back after the restart but then Kieran managed to beat their defender to make it 3-1. Dean then fired home one of his Beckham-style free kicks to put us 4-1 up. Winsford pulled one back after they were awarded a soft penalty and another soon after to bring the score to 4-3 but then Scott, Ellis and Scott again fired home in quick succession to put the scoreline beyond reach at 7-3. There was still time for Lewis to score from the penalty spot after he’d been fouled and then they grabbed a late consolation to make the final score 8-4. Overall we played very well in difficult conditions against a very physical side, we scored 8 very good goals and Ellis even hit the bar twice too. Dean was named as man of the match for his two fantastic goals and great contribution.

Sunday 3rd July - Ellesmere Port Town Tournament at Ellesmere Port

This was the first time we’d entered this tournament but we were pleased to find the pitches were of a good size and there were a lot of teams entered so both our sides had 7 matches each before they entered the final stages. Both our teams did really well to progress to the next round, the blue team actually won their group. Unfortunately both our sides were drawn to play each other in the round of 16 stage with the blue team winning before being knocked out by penalties in the next round.

Blue team squad was: Lewis S, Dean, Jack, Kieran, Scott, Josh, Matty, Tom D.

Results were v FC Helsby drew 0-0, v Ellesmere Port Town won 1-0 (Scott), v AFC Liverpool Red drew 0-0, v Colwyn Sabres drew 0-0, v Vauxhall Corsa won 2-1 (Scott, Kieran), v Olympic drew 0-0, v Princes Villa drew 0-0, Round of 16 v Brookfield Yellow won 1-0 (Scott), Quarter Final v FC Helsby drew 0-0 aet, lost 5-4 on penalties (Josh, Dean, Scott, Lewis).

Yellow team squad was: James, TJ, Chris, Ellis, Ally, Robbie, Lewis D, Adam.

Results were v Hope Farm Hotspurs drew 1-1 (Ellis pen), v Ellesmere Port Rangers drew 0-0, v Beechwood lost 1-0, v Vauxhall Zafira drew 0-0, v Whitby Rangers drew 0-0, v Princes Villa Colts won 1-0 (Ally), v Stork Youth Blue lost 1-0, Round of 16 v Brookfield Blue lost 1-0.

Friday 10th June v Nantwich Town (friendly) at Nantwich Town FC

With several players missing we had three guests in the squad: Foz, Scott and Jack which gave us plenty of choice with subs which was a good thing as it was decided we’d play two halves of 45 minutes. The first 20 minutes saw the game go end to end with a lot of high balls which seemed to suit Nantwich as they are a big side but then Scott put us in front with a good strike. Ellis came on shortly after and made it 2-0 within 20 seconds of being on the pitch (what took him so long!). Scott then fired home another just before half time to make it 3-0 at the break. Both teams made changes at half time and it took until 60 minutes for Tom D to put us 4-0 up with a nicely taken goal. Nantwich soon pulled one back but then Kieran cam eon and got in on the goals to put us 5-1 up. With 10 minutes left, one of their defenders put the ball in his own net under pressure from Lewis. Nantwich then pulled another goal back before Ellis pounced in the final minutes with another great goal to increase the score to 7-2 and that was the final score. It was another good friendly with a great result for us and all the boys knew they’d had a game at the final whistle after playing for 90 minutes! Ellis was man of the match after his two well taken goals, just pipping Foz who had a great game in defence. Thanks to all three guests for helping us out for the match.

Sunday 5th June - Hope Farm Tournament at Ellesmere Port

This was another new tournament for us, played at the Vauxhall Sports & Social Club, and we were pleased to find that each group was quite large meaning we’d have 7 group games. Both our teams did well, though goals were few and far between in most of the matches. Our blue team did well to reach the quarter final, only going out after extra time.

Blue team were: Lewis S, Josh, TJ, Tom, Ellis, Chris and Adam.

Results: v Stork Youth Red drew 0-0; v Ellesmere Port drew 0-0; v Barnston Panthers drew 0-0; v Manor Rovers drew 0-0; v Hope Farm Hotspurs drew 1-1 (Ellis); v AFC Liverpool Red won 1-0; v Hope Farm Rangers won 4-1 (TJ, Ellis x3); Quarter Final lost 1-0 aet.

Yellow team were: James, Jordan, Toby, Dean , Lewis, Matty, Kieran, Ally.

Results: v AFC Liverpool White drew 0-0; v Hope Farm Rangers drew 0-0; v Ellesmere Port Rovers drew 0-0; v Stork Youth Blue won 1-0 (Matty); v Rossway Utd drew 0-0; v Hope Farm Hotspurs drew 0-0; v Manor Red lost 1-0.

Sunday 22nd May - Spurley Hey JFC Tournament at Stockport

This was our first time entering this tournament. On arriving we were a bit disappointed to see that there were only two pitches and ‘mini’ goals. The weather wasn’t being kind either with heavy rain showers and strong, gusty wind. We entered two teams and our A team did really well to get to the semi-final, only going out 1-0 to a goal scored from a free kick after a very poor decision from the referee.

A Team were Ellis, Charlie (guest), Toby, Dean, Ryan, Dom and Chris.

Results: v Hazel Grove B won 2-0 (Ellis, Dom); v Spurley Hey B won 3-0 (Ellis 2, Chris); v Great Moor A lost 1-0; v Hazel Grove C won 2-0 (Ellis, Dom); v Hazel Grove A (quarter-final) drew 0-0, won 2-1 on penalties (Ellis and Dean, Charlie saved a penalty); v Wilmslow Albion (semi-final) lost 1-0.

B Team were Lewis, Jordan, Kieran (guest), Ally, Lewis S (guest), Chris (guest), Robbie.

Results v Hazel Grove A lost 3-0; v Spurley Hey A lost 2-1 (Kieran), v Great Moor B lost 1-0, v Wilmslow Albion drew 0-0.

Friday 20th May v Nantwich Town (friendly) at Nantwich Town FC

The match took place on the 3G astroturf pitch at Nantwich Town and, with next season in mind, we played 40 minutes each half. We welcomed two guests into our side: Kieran and Chris, thanks to them for playing. The Nantwich team were a mixed age group which play in the Potteries League. As the game got underway we could see we were playing against a good footballing side who passed the ball about nicely. After a slow start, Ellis sent Kieran through with only the keeper to beat and he slotted the ball home to put us 1-0 up. We were unlucky not to double our lead when Matty hammered a shot onto the post from a tight angle but instead Nantwich equalised. This seemed to spur us into action and first Ally put us 2-1 up and two minutes later scored again with a superb strike to make it 3-1, though Nantwich then pulled another goal back for 3-2. Just before half time Dean got in on the act with a goal straight from a corner to make it 4-2 at half time. In the second half we moved the back four around and played with TJ and Toby in the middle, they did a great job but the goals dried up for both teams until Ellis latched onto a loose ball and placed it in the far corner to make the final score 5-2 which was an excellent result against a well organised team. Matty was voted man of the match after a good all round game.

Friday 13th May v Crewe FC at King George Playing Fields

As we arrived for this match we knew it was the proverbial ‘six pointer’, whoever won would win the Championship and, as we would expect in any game against Crewe FC, the early stages were tough going with both teams realising there was a lot at stake. There were chances for both sides and Lewis had a good effort saved midway through the half but both sides were well matched and neither could break the deadlock before half time so we went in for the break at 0-0. As the second half got underway, and the black clouds loomed closer, we stepped up a gear and had a lot more of the play. First Toby met a corner from Dean which just went over and then Ellis forced their keeper to make a great save from a free kick. As we reached the final ten minutes the rain came but the boys kept on going and were rewarded for their efforts when Dom struck a great low drive into the net to put us 1-0 up with only a few minutes to go. As Crewe searched for an equaliser we stayed firm and managed to play out the final minutes keeping our lead to complete a memorable victory and win the Championship split B with a magnificent 100% record. It was a fine performance by the whole team but Chris was named man of the match for his tireless running in midfield. As an extra treat for the boys, Big Mac meals were provided after the match for the boys to tuck into kindly donated and arranged by Stewart and his wife Marie, a lovely way to end what has been a very good season. 

Friday 6th May v Market Drayton Tigers U15’s at Greenfields Stadium, Market Drayton

After playing Market Drayton’s U14’s side recently and beating them convincingly 4-0, we were invited back to play against their U15’s side who have finished 2nd in their League (of three divisions) and are shortly to play in their League’s Cup Final. The match was played as three periods of 25 minutes. In the first period we were a bit slow to get going and Drayton were first to the ball and on top for the first 15 minutes which shaw us let in two goals before we had even settled down properly. At the end of the first period we were 2-0 down. The second period saw us play with the slope which helped us play a little better, we played some nice football for a spell but still conceded another goal to put us 3-0 down at the end of the period. In the final period we had a couple of good efforts but we were playing a good side and they took a 5-0 lead before Kieran scored a great goal to round off a great match with a final scoreline of 5-1. At the end of the match both teams were treated to the hospitality of Market Drayton Tigers with a hot food buffet and the odd drink! The unanimous vote for man of the match was Robbie after another impressive display against strong opponents.

Sunday 1st May v Cruventus at King George Playing Fields

On a nice warm morning but with a rock hard pitch, the match got underway. We found it hard to control the ball and both sides took time to settle. It was 15 minutes before we managed a good chance on goal with a header from TJ. However soon after this we were rewarded for our hard work when we were awarded a penalty which Ellis took, striking the ball hard and firm straight down the middle to put us 1-0 up. Not long after Robbie made it 2-0 when he got onto a loose ball in the 6 yard box and fired home and the score remained at 2-0 until half time. The second half was very scrappy with both sides finding it difficult to play much football. Ellis managed to strike one shot against the post but with five minutes to go Cruventus pulled a goal back to make the score 2-1 and cause us a few scary moments as we hung on to our lead which kept us top of the table. Jordan was named man of the match for a strong performance in defence.

Wednesday 20th April v Congleton Hotspur at Back Lane Playing Fields, Congleton

Our first match in the Championship saw us playing at second division Congleton. With it being the Easter holidays we were missing Ellis and Ryan so only had 13 players. We started the match playing uphill and found we were getting the ball forward a lot only to be flagged offside before Lewis went on a run and kept running before putting in a fine drive to give us the lead after only 10 minutes. The match became very one-sided with their keeper making some great saves to keep us out but then TJ soared to head in a great goal and then Adam fired the ball home to make it 3-0 at half time. As the second half restarted with us now playing downhill we continued to have most of the possession and TJ scored from another header after a great cross from Dean to make it 4-0. Our defence were holding their shape well and Congleton never got chance to test James at all in goal. Adam popped up with another headed goal to bring it to 5-0 and then Dom and Ally both scored late on to complete a comfortable win 7-0 and put us top of our part of the Championship table. Adam was named man of the match for a great game and two fantastic goals.

Sunday 10th April v Market Drayton Tigers (friendly) at Greenfields Stadium, Market Drayton

On a glorious sunny morning we arrived at Market Drayton to discover that we were playing at the first team’s stadium, complete with stands etc which was a nice experience for everyone. The Tigers also supplied a ref and two proper linesmen which again made a change from our normal experiences on a Sunday! It was decided that we would play three periods of 25 minutes, like academy teams play, and so the first period got underway. We started very brightly and had a lot of the ball with James hardly needing to touch the ball and it was no surprise when Ellis finally put us 1-0 up with a fine header following a cross from Dean. Our defence was a lot stronger than recent weeks as we welcomed back Toby, making his comeback following his broken arm, and Jordan to the team with Tom J captaining the side in the absence of Tom D. Just after the first break Adam doubled our lead with a well taken goal, his first goal for Brookfield and soon after Ellis grabbed his second, and the team’s third, with another great goal. In the final period, Chris latched on to a fine cross from Matty to give us a magnificent 4-0 victory. Overall a good team performance against well organised opposition and a great experience for the boys to play at a proper stadium. Tigers have also invited us to play their U15 side in the near future, further details will be announced when we know them.

Saturday 2nd April v Betley FC (friendly) at King George Playing Fields

We again had several players missing due to illness and other commitments, including goalkeeper James, which meant we were very grateful to Sean for standing in at short notice to cover for him. Several other players again had to play out of position to cover for those missing. The game got underway and despite playing against a strong wind we played some good football taking the lead midway through the half with a fine headed goal from Ellis. Three minutes later, Ellis netted again with a long range effort to put us 2-0 up and it stayed that way until half time. After the break we changed tactics and went to 3-4-3 formation and had the wind behind us. Shortly Chris made it 3-0 with a nice chip over the keeper and Adam went close went he hit the bar. Betley had a chance themselves but Sean made a great save and then Kieran had a good shot that their keeper could only parry and Tom D followed up to put us 4-0 up. Then Dean got in on the act with a well placed shot to make it 5-0. We were having a lot of chances and shortly after Ally hit a hard drive into the back of the net to make it 6-0. With just a couple of minutes remaining, Ellis completed his hat trick to make the score 7-0 which was how it ended. Ally was named man of the match for his great goal and strong performance.

Saturday 26th March v Stapeley (friendly) at King George Playing Fields

With having to play on a Saturday to ensure a free pitch, we were missing several players and had none of our regular defence available so it was a good test with lots of players playing out of their normal positions. The first half was fairly even with both sides coming close a couple of times but it was us who managed to take the lead midway through the first half when Dom fired home to make it 1-0 to us and it stayed that way until half time. After the break, we began to run the game a bit more and Ellis soon put us 2-0 up, Kieran almost extended our lead when he was through on the keeper but his shot went just wide. Dean then had a great shot which was going into the corner of the net but the keeper just got a hand to it, but couldn’t hold it, and Dom was there to tap home for 3-0. Kieran, who had come close to scoring a couple of times, then got his reward with a well taken goal to put us 4-0 up. Stapeley pulled a consolation goal back near the end to make the final score 4-1, a very nice win with a makeshift side. Kieran was named man of the match for a great game up front, just edging out Ellis who also had a few chances.

Sunday 13th March v Nantwich Town (friendly) at Malbank School.

We went into this friendly having to use three guest players as our squad had been reduced due to injuries and Stoke playing at home in the Cup! Many thanks to Alex, Kieran and Lewis who all played an important part for us. The match got underway and we soon found ourselves 1-0 down but this stung us into action and Ally soon equalised after a goalmouth scramble. Not long after, Kieran went on a great run down the wing and cut inside to slot home to put us in the lead 2-1. We were making a lot of chances now and Ally ran through the Nantwich defence but Kieran headed just over. He was soon in action again though as after another strong run through the Nantwich defence he crossed the ball to Ellis who smashed the ball home for 3-1. It was all one way traffic now and soon after Adam crossed to Ally who headed home for 4-1. Kieran went on another mazy run and beat the Nantwich defence but he shot went just over then just before half time we were awarded a free kick just outside the box and Ellis scored a good goal direct from the free kick to leave us 5-1 up at half time. As the match restarted we soon found ourselves conceding to make it 5-2. It seemed a combination of us taking our foot off the pedal and Nantwich piling on the pressure was now resulting in them having several chances. Lewis made a couple of good saves and then we conceded two goals in quick succession to bring the score back to 5-4. Matt, TJ and Ellis all then had attempts on goal that were saved as Nantwich looked for an equaliser, our defence managed to keep their strikers at bay then Dean had a good chance saved before Ally made the match safe by completing his hat trick and giving us the win 6-4. So a good win and overall a good team performance.

Sunday 27th February v Nantwich Corinthians at King George Playing Fields

After heavy rain overnight and during the morning it wasn’t a surprise to find the pitch in a very muddy and sticky condition and the large puddles in the middle of the pitch had grown a bit deeper and wider but the match got underway and both teams soon found the conditions difficult and chances were few and far between for both sides with most play concentrated in the middle of the pitch though Dom had an effort that went just wide. We had a lucky escape midway through the half when a Corinthians player had a good effort on goal which James parried and would probably have gone in but the ball stuck in the mud and we just managed to clear the ball. Unfortunately our luck didn’t hold out as, with just a couple of minutes to go to half time, the ball was played into our box by Corinthians to their waiting player who was unmarked and headed home to give them the lead 1-0 and the score stayed that way until half time. After the break we played some of our best football of the match and soon had the ball in the net for an equaliser when Dom shot home after a cross into the box by Robbie making the score 1-1. Corinthians soon began to get back into the game though and piled on the pressure with James having to make several good saves, their pressure paid off though when they shot and after a scramble hit the ball home to give them the lead 2-1. We were finding it hard to get the ball up to our forwards although Ellis had a good shot from distance that went wide but James was soon called into action to make another save before two more chances were cleared off the line and then, after some good skill by a Corinthians player who turned and shot the ball into the net, we found ourselves 3-1 down which was the final score which was a disappointing result after the great performances over the past couple of weeks. Toby was named man of the match for a great game holding the defence together until a lot of pressure.

Sunday 20th February v Nantwich Corinthians at King George Playing Fields

A damp and cold morning greeted us as we arrived at the George’s yet again, this time there was no strong wind but there were two very large puddles on the middle of the pitch which were hardly conducive to decent football. The match got underway and we were soon on the attack, Dom had a good chance after running through their defence for a 1 on 1 with the keeper but his shot went just wide. We were playing well and Corinthians were not really troubling our defence at all. Lewis shot from the edge of the box but it was deflected for a corner and then Robbie had a good run down the wing but Chris couldn’t get a shot in on goal. Robbie then broke through their defence again but his shot went just wide. So at half time the score was still 0-0. At the start of the second half Ellis had a shot from distance but it was saved by their keeper, this seemed to sting Corinthians into action and they enjoyed their best spell of the game. James had to make two good saves to keep them out and our defence worked well under pressure to keep them from having any more clear cut chances. Slowly we managed to get ourselves back on top and Lewis had a good shot creep just past the post after a nice run by Ally and then Adam had a shot on the turn saved by the keeper. As the match drew to a close there were more half chances at either end before the game ended 0-0. So another fine performance by the boys and Ryan was named man of the match for a great game in defence, keeping the Corinthians forwards at bay.

Sunday 13th February v Crewe FC at King George Playing Fields

On the same pitch at last weekend and with the same strong wind as last week too we decided to play the first half with the wind behind us and it soon paid dividends as we went ahead after only three minutes when Dean broke down the left and placed a low drive to the right of the goal and put us 1-0 up. This stung Crewe into action and they had the ball in the net shortly after only for it to be disallowed for offside. With the strong wind behind us we decided to change formation to 4-4-2 and Ally came on to replace Chris. As the half drew to a close we won a free kick outside the box and Dean took one of his trademark kicks over their defence and into the top left hand corner of the goal, giving their keeper no chance and making the score 2-0 to us which is how it stayed until half time. As the second half resumed we changed back to a 4-5-1 formation playing into the wind but we soon found ourselves conceding a goal to bring Crewe back into it at 2-1. We kept our heads though and midway through the half Tom D sent a great pass through to Dom who carried it and sent a hard low drive into the next to make it 3-1. Under a lot of pressure from Crewe we managed to keep our heads and worked hard to keep the final score as a memorable victory of 3-1. Well done to all the team but Tom D was named man of the match for a real captain’s performance in midfield.

Sunday 6th February v Alex Soccer Centre at King George Playing Fields

A damp and very windy day greeted us as we arrived for today’s game. After the frozen pitch of last weekend, this time the pitch was very boggy but playable. We started off with the wind behind us and soon were on the attack but the Soccer Centre’s defence were managing to keep us from getting a shot in on target. We were playing the ball about well and the Soccer Centre seemed happy to sit back and let us attack them, Ellis came close after a great run and Dean fired just over from a free kick but we couldn’t make our dominance pay and at half time the score was 0-0. With the wind against us in the second half we found it harder to get the ball up front and the Soccer Centre had a few chances which we easily kept out, Robbie and Lewis being very strong in the middle of the pitch. As the half wore on we began to come more into the game again and chances were few and far between for either side. As the match drew to a close, Ally broke through only for a very late flag from the linesman to bring him back for offside. Then as the match entered the final seconds of normal time, the Soccer Centre got the ball into our box and after an almighty scramble hit the ball home to give them the lead. Then, well into injury time, they broke through again and scored for a final score of 2-0 which was a cruel blow after such a magnificent performance, in difficult conditions, by all the boys. Robbie was named man of the match for another outstanding performance.

Sunday 23rd January v Cruventus at Mirrion Street

Another cold winter’s morning with a biting breeze greeted us as we lined up for the match although the pitch was in pretty good condition. We got off to a great start when Tom D put us in front from close range within the first few minutes but we weren’t playing as well as we could in the early stages although as the half wore on we started to take control and put their keeper under pressure but at half time we were still leading 1-0. The referee took the strange decision to run the match on his own without the assistance of linesmen which lead to a few debatable decisions both for and against us but luckily this didn’t affect the result as soon after the restart Ally latched onto a superb through ball from Dean to put us 2-0 up. We continued to pile the pressure on Cruventus going close a number of times, their keeper though was having a great game and kept us out until the last minute when Ellis scored a well deserved goal to make the final score 3-0. Toby was named man of the match for the second week running after another fantastic, solid display.

Sunday 16th January v Nantwich Corinthians at the Barony

On a damp and dismal morning the match started off at a fast pace with Corinthians keen to get on the scoresheet, our defence was equal to the threat they could pose though and we held firm but couldn’t create much of a threat up front but 0-0 at half time was a good scoreline for us. Unfortunately, after holding on for 10 minutes or so of the second half, Corinthians luckily got a break when the ref didn’t notice a foul against Toby and allowed play to continue from which Corinthians scored. As the rain started to fall heavily our heads dropped and Corinthians scored three more to make the final score 4-0 which was slightly flattering to them. Toby was named as man of the match for a great display in the centre of defence.

Sunday 9th January v Nantwich Town at the Barony

After over six weeks without a game due to the weather it looked like this game was going to fall foul of a frozen pitch too with the early kick off already postponed but, luckily, we had a decent ref who agreed to wait and see if the sun would help and it did to a certain extent so it was game on. We were really pleased too as within five minutes Tom D and Ellis had put us 2-0 up and we seemed to be cruising. Unfortunately, we couldn’t maintain the good start and Nantwich pulled the game back to 2-2. The bobbly pitch was causing trouble for both teams, especially in defence and in the end a draw was the right result. Lewis was named man of the match for a great display in difficult conditions.

Sunday 21st November v Cruventus at King George Playing Fields

We got straight back to winning ways after last weekend’s disappointing defeat with a 2-0 victory over Cruventus which was somewhat more convincing than the scoreline suggests. After chances for both sides, Ellis opened the scoring with a tap in midway through the first half to put us 1-0 up and it stayed that way until half time. We had a lot of possession but weren’t able to make it pay in front of goal but midway through the second half, Ellis scored again to put us 2-0 up and make things a bit more comfortable. Shortly after, Cruventus were awarded a penalty but the spot kick was expertly saved by James to preserve our first clean sheet of the season and the final score stayed at 2-0. Tom D was named man of the match for a strong display holding our midfield together.

Sunday 14th November v Crewe FC at Ruskin

A minute’s silence for Remembrance Sunday was observed before the start of the match and we were slow to get going when the match kicked off with Crewe soon putting us under pressure and we found ourselves a goal down. However, this sparked the boys into action and Ellis threaded a great ball through for Ally to bring us back level at 1-1. Both teams were fighting to gain the upper hand with shots at both ends before Crewe managed to get another goal just before half time to put themselves 2-1 up. Just after the restart though, Dean pulled us back level again with another of his fantastic goals from a free kick. Both teams had chances to take the lead but unfortunately for us Crewe managed to score again and they held on to make the final score 3-2 to them. A draw would probably have been a fair result after a good performance all round on a difficult bumpy pitch. Ellis was named man of the match on his return from injury for a great display up front, being unlucky not to score on a few occasions.

Sunday 7th November v Nantwich Town at King George Playing Fields

A fresh autumnal day greeted us as we arrived at the Georges and we were soon in the ascendency as Dom fired us home after five minutes to give us the lead 1-0. We weren’t having things all our own way though and James kept us in the lead with a fantastic save from their big striker. Soon we had increased our lead though as Tom D netted for 2-0 and then we put the game beyond Nantwich with two goals in a minute from Ally to put us 4-0 ahead and the score stayed like that until half time. After half time we didn’t have the same urgency about us and Nantwich started to come more into the game pulling two goals back to make it 4-2 but then Chris hit a superb strike to cure our jitters and increase the lead to 5-2. They scored a penalty near the end to bring it back to 5-3 but we held on comfortably to record another good victory which leaves us joint second in the table. Jordan was named man of the match for another strong performance holding the defence together.

Sunday 24th October v Cruventus at the Barony

We got off to a fantastic start in this match at the Barony with Ellis and Ally firing in two goals to put us 2-0 up in the first five minutes, understandably the Cruventus heads dropped and we controlled the first half with Dom adding two more goals to make the score 4-0 at half time. After the break we sat back a bit and let Cruventus back into the match somewhat, they scored and started to run the game but TJ powered in with another of his fantastic goals to stop any doubt about the final score and the match ended in a fine 5-1 victory to keep us in third place in the table. TJ was named man of the match for a fine game as captain and for his great goal.

Sunday 17th October v Alex Soccer Centre at the Soccer Centre

After last weekend’s fantastic performance we were hoping the confidence would carry over to today’s game and it certainly seemed to be so with the team playing some nice football and soaking up all the Soccer Centre’s pressure early on with James having to make a couple of saves before we had a good chance of our own when Dom ran through their defence only for the goalie to kick the ball clear. Shortly after Dean had a good shot from a free kick from distance that was saved. We continued to soak up pressure from the Soccer Centre, getting a lot of players behind the ball and not giving Soccer Centre time to create before we had a great chance to take the lead when Dom again managed to beat their defence and was clean through but his shot was well parried by their keeper and rebounded to their defender. So at half time the scores remained level at 0-0. We made the better start in the second half, enjoying more time on the ball. Dean threaded a good ball through to Ellis who sent a lovely cross over to Tom D who sent in a great shot to the top corner but the ball was saved, the game was quite even now with both defences holding firm and few chances on goal though both Matty and Dean had chances saved. As the game reached the final 10 minutes, disaster struck when the Soccer Centre sent a good ball through which beat our defence and James had no chance and we were 1-0 down. As the side tired in the final few minutes the Soccer Centre scored two more goals in quick succession to make the final score a flattering 3-0. Overall a good team performance with Jordan being named man of the match for his fantastic display in the heart of the defence.

Sunday 10th October v Crewe FC at Mirrion Street

After the torrential rain we had to endure last weekend it was nice to enjoy a bit of late summer sunshine as we lined up to face Crewe FC. The match started off at a fast pace and we were soon on the attack but then, with perfect timing, our number 10 Chris struck a long high drive into the Crewe FC net at 10.10 on 10.10.10 to put us 1-0 up, fantastic! As Crewe FC battled to get back into the game our midfield and defence held strong before Dom managed to race through and slot the ball home to put us 2-0 up and that’s how it stayed until half time. Soon after the restart, Crewe brought themselves back into the game with a goal to make it 2-1, things looked rocky for a minute but then Ellis stormed through to make it 3-1 and then as the match reached the final 10 minutes Dean smashed a brilliant goal direct from a corner, the team witheld some pressure and could have grabbed a fifth but the final score was a brilliant 4-1 victory. Lewis was named man of the match for a strong display in midfield against the very physical Crewe team but everyone played their part in the fabulous display.

Sunday 3rd October v Nantwich Town at Shavington School

After torrential rain all morning we were doubtful that the game would be able to get started but the ref thought the pitch was playable so the match go underway, we were soon pleased with the decision though as Ellis fired in a couple of quick goals, then Ally scored from a superb long range shot before Ellis completed his hat trick, Nantwich pulled one back to make it 4-1 at half time but the score line helped keep the spirits up as the rain continued to lash down. After the restart, Nantwich pulled another goal back to make it 4-2 but then Tom D scored with his right foot, Matty tapped in at the far post and Dom scored a great goal to put us 7-2 up. The final 15 minutes of the match were played in farcical circumstances with the pitch basically unplayable but we made it to the end and a great result for our first win of the season. Suffice to say the match following ours was postponed as were the matches at most other pitches in the area today. A good team display in very difficult conditions and we hope nobody (including the parents!) ends up with pneumonia after their drowning! Ryan was named man of the match for a great game at right back.

Sunday 26th September v Nantwich Corinthians (League Cup 1st Round) at King George Playing Fields

After last weekend’s abortive fixture, the good news was that at least we had a pitch this weekend although unfortunately the League/Council appear to have taken no notice of the fact we reported the pitch had no proper markings so we had to mark the playing area out with cones which was hardly ideal. Unfortunately, playing such a strong team as Corinthians in the 1st round wasn’t ideal for us either, we soon found ourselves under a lot of pressure and they had scored three goals before Chris hit a belter in just before half time to give us a glimmer of hope at 3-1. However Corinthians soon made it 4-1 after the restart before Robbie knocked one home to make it 4-2, we couldn’t keep their strikers at bay though and they added another couple to make the final score 6-2 and put us out of the cup. Hopefully the team learnt a few lessons that they can take in to our League matches against Corinthians. Man of the match was Robbie again for another sterling performance.

Sunday 12th September v Alex Soccer Centre at the Brittles

So the start of another season and not only our first game but also our first game at the Brittles. There were no strangers in our opponents though as we faced up to last season’s champions, the Alex Soccer Centre, in the first game for the third successive season. The match got underway and Brookfield took the game to the Soccer Centre, playing some good football and created a couple of good chances for Ellis which were both saved. The defence were keeping tight and closing down the opposing players quickly. Mid way through the first half we were awarded a free kick around 25 yards out and Dean produced one of his fantastic thunderbolts to fire it into the net and put us in the lead. As the half drew to a close the Soccer Centre were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box which James managed to save but couldn’t hold and their player knocked the ball home to bring the scores level. Soccer Centre came more into the game and James made a couple of fine saves to keep the score at 1-1 for half time. After the break, we couldn’t get our rhythm going although Dean did have another great shot which hit the crossbar from distance. Ellis and TJ both had to go off injured which disrupted our pattern and the Soccer Centre profited after a scramble in the goalmouth they scored and then as the match drew to a close their player went down on the edge of the box after a challenge which the ref awarded a penalty for which they duly scored to make the final score 3-1. Overall it was a good team display and the final scoreline flattered the Soccer Centre. Man of the match was Robbie for a great all-round display.