u16smatchreports

Bilbrook Spartans Match Reports

04/09/2011 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Soorma F.C ( League )

Well here we go again,new season,new division and new players.

Firstly i'd like to welcome,Jack,Sam,Jordan,Titch and Josh to the TEAM.

Our 1st game was to turn out to be a gentle welcome to division 2,even though we made hard work of it,we started like a team that hadn't played together or ever met before.But we eventually ran out 4-0 winners,but should have been double that,but for wasted chances.Kyle started the ball rolling,after some great pressure,we forced a corner,and after a scramble in the box,Kyle fired into the corner.1-0.A fantastic run from Baggie,gave us a 2 goal lead,he attacked with pace and with a drop of the shoulder fired left footed past the stranded keeper.We were in cruise control. H.T 2 -0

We camped in their half.Baggie put the game out of site,after some fantastic work by Kyle he chased down a lost cause, passed to Baggie who fired left footed to make it 3-0.They were shell shocked,we took our foot off a little,giving them a bit of a lift,it didnt come to anything.Josh finally put the game to bed with a fantastic 30yd pile driver which bulged the net.
F.T 4 - 0

Man of the Match: Baggie deserved this,his alround team play,and his 2 well taken goals.

Managers Comment: A well deserved victory,against a team who will improve as the season goes on.

11/09/2011 Wordsley Wasps West V/s Bilbrook Spartans ( League )

After last weeks victory we were going into the game confident,Wordsley won last week 7-1,so they would also be on a high,so a good game was in prospect.We started well,pushing them back at every opportunity,creating a couple of half chances in very windy conditions,which didn't help the game at all.They got the early break,totally against the run of play,as is usually the case,a long punt up field,wasn't cleared,the ball held up in the wind,and as H advanced the striker nicked in to lob the ball into an open net.1 - 0.Our heads didn't drop though,we still tried to play.All this came to nothing,as Wordsley went 2-0 up,we were now 2nd to everything,our passing and control was totally wayward,nothing was going our way,we were not working as a team at times. H.T 2-0

After some choice words and a huge kick up the rear the lads came out with a new found passion and drive,we wanted it more,why it took us 40mins to get going i don't know,we pressed further up the field,and forcing them to make mistakes as we did first half.We were rewarded a foul just inside their half,the resulting free kick swung in by Jack.E.,the keeper spilled the ball to a grateful Kyle who fired home his 2nd of the season from 3yds out 2 - 1.We were taking the fight to them,they were physical and strong but we started to mix it unlike the first half.The lads deserved to be on level terms,and so Ryan obliged,a long ball forward,the defender miss timed the bounce and Ryan was on hand to flick it past the advancing keeper.2-2.I cant explain why we seamed to take our foot off the gas again,they got a throw deep in our half,it was slung in,and headed goalwards,thankfully new signing Jack was on hand to head off the line.We wern't level for long,they wanted it more,a ball crossed in from our left should have been a bread and butter claim by H,but the striker nipped in to head past him into an empty net.3-2.They had now got their tails up,and again from another Rory Delap esc throw which we didn't deal with and we were 4-2 down and i couldn't see a way back. F.T 4 - 2

Man of the Match: JACK ROWNES: deserved this with some great defending,last ditch tackles and his work rate,a fantastic edition to the team.

Managers Comment: Did you hear the thud,as we came back down to earth with a bump.The difference between the 2 sides was they wanted it more.especially after we got back on level terms.As i said to the lads,forget this now,it's history,they will show me what character they are made of at next game,i know and they know they are better than that performance,and i have great confidence in the TEAM to turn it into a positive.Heads up boys its early days.

18/09/2011 Rowley Rhinos V/s Bilbrook Spartans ( League )

Before i continue with my report,id just like to send mine and the teams best wishes to the Rowley player who we had to call an ambulance for half way through the 2nd half with a suspected broken collar bone,we wish him a speedy recovery.

After last weeks defeat,we had to get back to winning ways to get our season back on track.We headed over to Rowleys sloping pitch,and if the past few games against them over the years had anything to go by we were in for a physical battle,and we needed to show great character,which the lads did by the bucket load.With Kyle and Baggie out injured,Jordan and Sam stepped in to take their place and Titch made his 1st start of the season.We kicked off playing up the slope,which actually benefited us,we controlled the game,our passing was spot on,Jordan was like a man possessed,with the calming influence of Josh by his side.Rowley could have been 1 up totally against the run of play,a shot came in,hitting the bar and bouncing down on the line,thankfully not over it.We got our reward,a fine save by H,he released the ball up field,Ryan ran on and in one movement passed square to Titch,who controlled and fired home his 1st goal of the season.1 - 0.The 2nd was a screamer of a free kick from 25yds by another debutant Jordan,whos shot flew with pace and power past the keeper.2 - 0.We were in total control.Ryan was having a fine game,he worked their back four into submission at times.A ball broke loose into the corner,and instead of letting it go out he ran to keep it in,Rowley had stopped,Ryan hadnt though,he passed to an unmarked Josh who fired low past the keeper 3 - 0.We went into the half time break in complete control. H.T 0 - 3

I told the lads at half time that Rowley would come out and take the game to us,we needed to keep the ball and frustrate them.I was bang on,Rowley attacked in waves down both flanks,but the lads stood up to the challenge,the back four were well organised,with Jack.R and Louise forming a formidable partnership,and another debutant,Sam was having a fine game at left back even though its not his natural starting position.With 25mins to go,a great through ball by Ryan left Titch a free run at goal,but he snatched at the shot,which flew wide. Josh was his usual hard working self,he is what i call a complete team player,and deserved his man of the match award.We were under the cosh for long periods of the 2nd half.With 12mins to go the game was held up for the Rowley lad to be treated for the shoulder injury.From the restart Rowley pushed us back,but were caught them after the referee let play continue after the flag went up for off side,as they had possession,but we won it back,a ball across found Dan unmarked to side foot home from 4yds for his 1st of the season.4 - 0.We should have seen the game out,but took our foot off allowing Rowley in to get a consolation goal which on 2nd half possession they deserved.

F.T 1 - 4

Man of the Match: Josh.L. deserved this,he is Mr consistent,he works so hard for the team,he topped it off with a goal,well done Josh.

Managers Comment: After last weeks defeat,the lads showed fantastic character to come out and not only play some great football,but also got stuck in where it hurts,winning the first and second ball,and they defended as a TEAM.Well done lads.

25/09/2011 West Hagley V/s Bilbrook Spartans ( League )

West Hagley came at us from the first whistle,but as last week,the defence stood firm.With the defence playing so well this frees up the midfield to work their magic.Our first sniff of a goal fell to TITCH,who was put through,but hit his shot just over.After a fine RYAN volley,which was well saved.From the resulting corner we broke the deadlock,a pin point ball in by JORDAN,was met by the head of the unmarked JACK.R,who put it away with ease.1 - 0.This seamed to fire Hagley up.their number 9 was a tricky player,SAM knew he was in a game.He danced past us at times without much resistance.They should have been level,but for a fine one handed save by HARRY,which he played onto the post and was able to gather the rebound.Our back four were again on top,JACK.R and LOUISE were rocks,WILLIAM and SAM were having a great game too.After a long ball forward,RYAN chased and with his left,yes his left punished Hagley with a fine strike under the keepers body.We went into the break with a nice 2 goal cushion.On possession we deserved to be
H.T 0 - 2

Hagley again started the half brightly,but they lacked the killer finish, another long range shot from 25yds out was again well saved by HARRY.We were frustrating Hagley,they just couldn't break us down.JACK.E put the game to bed,with a well struck shot,after some never say die work from RYAN,who as last week didn't give up a lost cause,his cross was deep,and found Jack E. It should have been 4, a great cross on the run from JAKE who replaced MARTYN,found RYAN unmarked,but his shot was straight at the keeper,either side of him and it would have been a goal.We deserved the win on the balance of play,we were solid from the back to the front. F.T 0 - 3

Man of The Match: This was a tough call,there were 2 or 3 candidates,William had a fine game on the wing,then at left back,Josh was his typical busy,hard working self,but the winner for a fine all round defencive job,Hagley hadn't a clue of how to get past,JACK.R,well done.

Managers Comment: A well deserved victory,against a good team,whose only difference between them and us, was the finishing,we put our chances away they didnt.3 wins from 4 in our first season in Div 2 is a fantastic tribute to the TEAM.well done once again to you all.

02/10/2011 Black Country Rangers V/s Bilbrook Spartans ( League )

3 wins from 4 after being promoted,in my eyes is a fantastic achievement,it shows to me how much the lads have improved and how much the new lads have given to the team,credit to everyone of you.We rolled up in Dudley with a depleted but definitely not a weakened side,due to illness and injury,the versatility of the new signings gave me confidence in getting a result.Rangers were out the blocks first,they had 2 or 3 early half chances without the final finish.But the lads showed them the way to goal,JOSH.L. won a free kick 30yds out,JORDAN stepped up and floated a ball in,which the keeper spilled,LOUISE gambled on the loose ball,but could only head at the falling keeper.We piled on the pressure,JOSH.L won possession in the centre circle,he played a perfect pass through to RYAN who slid it between the keepers legs to put us 1-0 up.It could have been 2-0 but for a last gasp tackle as RYAN pulled the trigger after a great flick on by MARTYN.Their number 14 was now taking control,he was pulling all the strings in midfield.But the lads stood up to the task,RYAN again could have got his 2nd after some great work and cross by JOSH.L,but he flicked it just wide.On possession alone we deserved to go into the break ahead. H.T 0 - 1.

We came out with a purpose,we pushed Rangers back,JORDAN got to grips with their no:14,he wasn't as influential,but was still a threat on the counter attack.How it stayed at 1-0 was beyond me,after Dudley cleared their lines,the ball fell to JACK.E,about 25yds,who hit a thunderbolt along the ground,which the keeper spilled,and was scrambled clear.We were punished for our missed chances,we were caught on the counter,the 14 took on 3 without much of a challenge,his through ball found was spot on,the lad ran on to make the scores level.1 - 1.The lads weren't finished,they stuck to the task,they pressed and worked hard,they had 2 goal bound chances cleared off the line,one of which came back off the bar,it just wouldn't go in for us,Unbelievable.The second half was filled with chances,but it seemed the goal god wasn't on our side today.LOUISE came on for MARTYN up front and Rangers couldn't deal with his height,he did well with flicks and his jinky runs,and a fantastic turn and pass too BAGGIE who raced clear,on another day would have and should have bulged the net,but it wasn't to be,as he fired high and wide.That was to be our last chance,it wasn't for the want of trying though,credit to the whole TEAM for their effort,but you get games like this,where you have more of the play,even the referee came over and praised the lads,and said they deserved to get a victory from the game. F.T 1 - 1.

Man of the Match: This was a tough call as their were numerous candidates for it,again JOSH.L shone,JACK.R again was a controlling influence at the back,but the winner,was RYAN,his work rate was tremendous,he never gave the defence a minute to settle and deserved his goal,he could have had a hat trick.Well Done.

Managers Comment: On another day we should have been out of sight by half time,but for missed chances and Rangers goal living a charmed life.It was a great performance,so take the positives from the game,you created plenty of goal scoring opportunities,and defended solidly,onwards and upwards.KEEP BELIEVING IN YOUR OWN ABILITIES AND YOU WILL SUCCEED.

16/10/2011 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Hasbury Rangers Colts (League)

The top 2 promoted teams from last season get to meet for the first time this season in Div 2.I expected a tough, physical end to end game if last season was anything to go by. How wrong could i be,Bilbrook dominated the game for long periods,and the final score was testament to how one sided it was.From the start we were camped in their half.An early chance from TITCH,after some great work from RYAN,went begging.Hasbury won a couple of corners which came to nothing,due to some solid defending,which we pride ourselves on,we work so hard for each other.The deadlock was finally broken,Man of the Match Jack Rownes,played a ball back to keeper HARRY ,who belted it hard and long up field,KYLE put the defender under pressure,thus missing his clearance,KYLE judged the bounce,and sublimely lobbed the advancing keeper. 1 - 0.Our all round team play and work rate restricted Hasbury to long range efforts,HARRY was never troubled. H.T 1 - 0

All the lads had to do to put this game to bed was the same as the 1st half,we were creating plenty of chances ,without the killer goal.I wished i had a pound each time Bilbrook were flagged offside,some of which were a bit dubious to say the least.The one time we thought RYAN was off, he was ruled on,so he raced clear,leaving him 1 on 1 with the keeper,and their was only one winner,he slotted it away with confidence 2 - 0.Hasbury pushed forward,but our defence led by JACK.R stood up to the challenge with ease.Bilbrook were awarded a free kick just inside Hasburys half,JACK ENEFFER delivered it,JAKE beat the defender to head goal wards,the ball looped over the keeper,and RYAN was on hand from a yd out to make sure 3 - 0.After a corner HASBURY were given an undeserved lifeline,a penalty given for a push.But they didn't bank on HARRY, who made a superb save to his right after guessing correctly.This just drove Bilbrook on,BAGGIES free kick came crashing back off the bar,with the Hasbury keeper well beaten.TITCH also hit the upright after a looped shot.Hasbury were under an immense pressure,it was a matter of time before we got our fourth,and so TITCH obliged,after some great work by BAGGIE,his cross was superbly dispatched beyond the stranded keeper.4 - 0.With just 5mins left on the clock,the ever busy JOSH LAWLEY,got on the score sheet,with a sweet strike past the dejected Hasbury keeper.Hasbury were a shadow of the team that finished second to us last season,but like i said to the lads you can only beat the 11 in front of you.A thoroughly deserved victory,it could have and should have been more if I'm honest. F.T 5 - 0

Man of the Match: For the 3rd time this season JACK ROWNES,he is so cool,calm and collected,even under pressure,he makes his task look so easy
Managers Comment: A total TEAM performance,every one played their part in this victory,from Harrys penalty save to Ryans double strike.Every one stepped up to the mark.WELL DONE LADS,YOU MAKE MY JOB AS MANAGER SO EASY,YOUR A JOY TO WATCH AND COACH..

23/10/2011 Soorma F.C V/s Bilbrook Spartans ( League )

We had already played Soomra on the 1st day of the season,which we won 4-0,so another 3pts on their patch would be very welcome.The flood gates were opened after only 30secs.Soomra conceded a corner,which Baggie delivered,JAKE WATTON met it perfectly with an unchallenged header.1-0.The pressure was relentless,wave after wave of attack,we were making it look easy with some great football.We were given a free kick in a dangerous position,JORDAN played deep in the area,JACK ROWNES headed it down for JOSH to fire home 2-0.Soomra were shell shocked.Just after our 2nd goal,one of the Soomra players just walked off,leaving them to carry on with just 10 men,but credit to them they did.Our 3rd came from a low hard cross which RYAN timed to perfection,to side foot past the keeper.3-0.Our 4th came from another free kick on the edge of the area,which was dispatched with pace,but the keeper spilled it,but RYAN gambled to get his 2nd of the game 4-0.The lads just wern't giving the opposition a second to settle.Harry launched a long goal kick forward,which was flicked on to JOSH,who took it in his stride,he jinked and weaved past 3 defenders and unleashed a thunder bolt goal wards 5-0.It could have been 5-1,after some uncharacteristic sloppy defending from JACK.R left Soomra a free run at goal,but HARRY stood up to make a fine one handed save round the post.That was their only chance of the half. H.T.0 - 5

Straight from the re-start it could have been 6-0,JACK hit a long ball forward,which RYAN won,he played TITCH in,who's first time shot was saved for a corner.Soomra got a consolation goal,a free kick was put through Bilbrooks wall,HARRY never had a chance as the ball came through a throng of legs,and with a player stood right in front of him clearly off side but not given. 5-1.This spurred Bilbrook on,TITCH made it 6-1,after a fantastic run down the left by BAGGIE,he dinked it up and TITCH obliged.JOSH got booked for retaliation, after he was fouled,but free kick given the other way.RYAN got our 7th and his hat-trick,a pull back from BAGGIE,it fell to RYAN who made no mistake 7 - 1.WILLIAM came on for JAKE,and made an instant impact,he burst forward,beating the left back,and with a square pass found TITCH who got his 2nd and our 8th. 8 - 1.Bilbrooks scoring was completed by JOSH,who got the games 2nd hat-trick, after a short free-kick,JACK.R played a long ball forward,which found WILLIAM ghosting in on the blind side, his cross found RYAN who chested goal wards,it was going in,but just made sure with a toe 9 - 1.F.T 1 - 9

Man of the Match: Ryan,not just for his goals,but for his alround team play,he is full of confidence at the moment,and is a handful to play against.Well done RYAN

Managers Comment: I'd like to mention the Soomra players who didn't give up,even when down to 10 for 70mins of the game.But as I said to the lads you can only beat the team in front of you, which we did.Well done Bilbrook.This win took us 2nd in the table.

30/10/2011 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Hasbury Rangers JFC (League)

Both teams seemed to be still in bed at the start,the extra hour in bed didn't give either side much of a boost.Bilbrook were the first to wake from their slumber,after some early sloppy play,we started to get the ball down and play our trade mark football.It became quite one sided.Bilbrook were awarded 3 corners,without an end result.The inform RYAN had our first clear cut chance,he raced half the pitch,avoiding the close challenge of the defender,he lifted the ball goal wards,and with the keeper beaten the ball bounced agonisingly past the post.Bilbrook were in control now their back four weren't ever in trouble,Man of the Match JORDAN at right back was very composed.Our midfield had finally woke up.Bilbrook pushed hard for the breakthrough.BAGGIE could have and should have scored after the Hasbury keeper gifted him,but he fired wildly over from just 4yds.How it was still 0-0 i really didn't know.That early miss from BAGGIE seamed to spur him on,after some great work down the left he crossed to JOSH who guided the ball past the keeper.1 - 0.Bilbrook should have built on this,but they sat back,conceding a needless corner,which Hasbury scored from after Bilbrook didn't clear.1 - 1.Both JACK.E and RYAN had chances to put Bilbrook back in front with two good efforts.The best time to score is just before H.T,and so Bilbrook obliged,RYAN chased a lost cause down by the corner flag,his pin point cross found an unmarked BAGGIE who made no mistake this time.2 - 1.H.T 2 - 1

Bilbrook needed to sharpen up on their possession and put the game to bed.An early goal would settle them down,JOSH played a fantastic ball forward,BAGGIE took it in his stride,to fire past the advancing keeper.3 - 1.Bilbrook could now relax and play.Hasbury tried to get back in the game,but Bilbrook were well organised,the defence being well protected by their hard working midfield.The Bilbrook keeper HARRY didn't have a save to make in the 2nd half.RYAN got rewarded for his hard work and never say die attitude,he ran on to a long ball,challenged the keeper,who dropped the ball back to RYAN,who finished into an empty net 4 - 1.WILLIAM came on for JAKE and could have made it 5,with some sublime pass and move football,he fired from the angle just wide of the far post.BAGGIE definitely made up for his early miss by getting his third of the game,he attacked down the left,his cross shot flummoxed the keeper who could only help the ball into the net.5 - 1.Just before the final whistle, RYAN fired over an empty net after he had done all the hard work.F.T 5 - 1

Man of the Match: Jordan deserved this,he was so composed at right back,then when he moved in to midfield,he continued his fine form.

Managers Comment: Another fine TEAM performance.After a slow start,Bilbrook finally got in their stride,and were convincing winners in the end.Well done lads i am a very proud manager.

06/11/2011 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Stafford Town (Staffs County Cup)

Bilbrook started brightly,with a couple of early efforts testing the Stafford keeper,TITCH fired just over,and RYAN fired straight down the keepers throat,either side of him and it would have been in.Bilbrook seamed to lose their way a little after their good start.Got sloppy and seamed to be chasing shadows at times,so the 15 mins of stoppage due to a referee mix up,,gave Bilbrook chance to re-group.After the enforced stoppage Bilbrook came out with a bit more vigour and determination.BAGGIE ran at the Stafford right back,he dinked a cross in to JOSH,who's turn left the defender for dead,his ball in found TITCH,he turned and in one movement fired low past the keeper.1 - 0.BAGGIE could have made it 2-0 after he found himself in space 30yds out,he unleashed a thunder bolt left foot strike,which flew past the post,with the keeper well beaten.Bilbrook rode their luck,a fine strike from Stafford was goal bound,but for a fine one handed save from Man of the Match HARRY.The resulting corner found its way into Bilbrooks net,but was disallowed,as the ball was rolling as it was taken,the retake resulted in nothing.Once Bilbrook got going they deserved their slim interval lead. H.T 1 - 0

Bilbrook had to come out with fire and desire and put Stafford under pressure,as we knew they'd push for the equaliser.Which they got,after Bilbrook gave the ball away to easily in midfield,Stafford broke down Bilbrooks left,the cross found a player totally unmarked,and had time to pick his spot,HARRY never stood a chance.1 - 1.Stafford now had their tails up,and pushed hard to get their noses in front,they got a chance after JORDAN gave away a penalty,which everyone thought a little harsh.But the penalty wouldn't have looked out of place on a rugby field,it was hit high and wide.This should have given Bilbrook a boost,but their passing and control was sloppy at times,and seamed to lose their discipline.The game was end to end but no cutting edge.Bilbrook again rode their luck,a shot came in,was well saved by HARRY with his legs,the ball bounced around,a shot came in which was cleared off the line.Stafford got their noses in front,after a shot came back off the bar,the rebound was put away from 3yds out.Bilbrook finally woke up,and the final 10mins was spent camped in Staffords half,with RYAN,DAN,BAGGIE and even LOUIS all having chances to push the game into extra time.If they had done this through the game they would be in the next round,but it wasn't to be.As the cliche goes,Bilbrook can now concentrate on the league. F.T 1 - 2

Managers Comment: Bilbrook should have been out of sight,but we got sloppy,we gave possession away far to easy,we made Stafford look good.Our discipline side of the game needs to be addressed,we got beat not by a better side but by ourselves.

Man of the Match: HARRY:but for him Stafford could have been 3 or 4 up.Two great saves in each half won him this award

13/11/2011 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Withymoor Colts EWC (League)

We welcomed Withymoor to our home ground for this top of the table clash.Both sides level on points and hardly anything between them on the stats side of things.As the promoted team,this would be Bilbrooks toughest challenge,as i see Withymoor as promotion candidates.After both sides showed their respect with a minutes silence for our war heroes,the game got under way.Both teams took time to settle,with both having good early possession.The first early goal scoring chance fell to Bilbrooks RYAN DILLON,who put his shot wide of an open net,after some great work down the left from BAGGIE.Bilbrook started to take control of the game,the passing was spot on.RYAN again missed a glaring opportunity,the ball got stuck in his feet as he went to shoot.Bilbrook pushed Withymoor back,each player doing his part.Our midfield,led by Man of the Match JOSH LAWLEY worked tirelessly to break down any Withymoor attack,and restrict them to long range efforts,which was credit to the Bilbrook defence.RYAN once again found himself unmarked,WILLIAMS pin point cross left him a free header goal wards but it just wasn't to be his day as he put it over with the keeper stranded.Bilbrook needed to make the chances count,or it could come back to haunt us.The deadlock was finally broken,a blistering run down the left by BAGGIE,left the defender for dead,his cross found RYAN,who this time was the provider,his nod down found TITCH who fired Bilbrook into a deserved lead. 1 - 0.

Withymoor were rattled,they stepped it up a gear,and finally got their first shot at goal,a fierce effort from 30yds took the paint off the outside of the post.Withymoor controlled the last 10mins of the 1st half,as they pushed for the equaliser.Which they got on the stroke of Half Time,as a manager its either a great time to score or in my case NOT.A long throw came in,Bilbrook didn't clear,the marking left a lot to be desired,as the shot hit the back of the net.1 - 1.H.T 1 - 1

Bilbrook needed to re-group and get back to controlling the game after the break,as they did for most of the 1st half.They started off slowly,but soon got into the swing of things again,pushing Withymoor back.The pressure resulted in a Bilbrook right wing corner,which BAGGIE swung in,and it flew straight in the top corner with the keeper well beat 2 - 1.Now they had the lead again,Bilbrook had to do what they do best,play football,and break up any Withymoor attacks.The whole TEAM was playing its part,each player winning their own individual battles.When Withymoor did get forward Bilbrook shut up shop and kept them at bay.The game became more open as Withymoor pushed for the equaliser.Bilbrook on more than one occasion caught Withymoor with some quick counter attacks,but for some more composure in front of goal,should have put the game to bed.It wasn't for the want of trying by Withymoor as they pushed Bilbrook back,with 2 late corners,causing Bilbrook a few problems as they struggled to clear their area,but they did and in the end held on for a fantastic win against as i said earlier a Withymoor side who will certainly be promotion candidates

Man of the Match: JOSH thoroughly deserved this once again.His work rate is relentless,he gave cover to his defenders and supported his strikers when required.

Managers Comment: After an inept performance last week,the TEAM came out fighting,with a renewed TEAM spirit,they came through this tough challenge with their heads held high.And the joy of sitting on top of the league.Thank you lads,again i must say how proud of you all i am.WELL DONE TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU.

20/11/2011 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Rowley Rhinos (League Cup)

Bilbrook found themselves 1-0 down after only 20secs of the start,LOUIS took it upon himself to take on Rowley,he lost possession on the half way line,and left us 2 on 1,the striker ran on,to score the easiest goal he'll ever score,after Harry made a hash of an attempted clearance.1-0.Bilbrook were all at sea,our passing was shocking,they were playing like a team who had never met.Bilbrook beat Rowley quite convincingly in the league earlier in the season,but on this showing you wouldn't have guessed so.Bilbrook were sloppy to say the least,Rowley out muscled us all over the park,Bilbrook were 2nd to everything.When Bilbrook started to play,they started to push Rowley back,new lad RYAN had a great chance to put Bilbrook level,but fired over.Bilbrook got caught in possession,and Rowley broke clear,no Bilbrook player made a telling tackle leaving the striker to get his and his teams 2nd.This was Bilbrooks worst 1st half performance of the season,by far.Rowley could have been 3 or 4 up before half time but for a fine double save by HARRY.The half time break couldn't come quick enough,to re-group and sort things out. H.T 0 - 2

Bilbrook came out with a completely different attitude,they attacked Rowley,they hassled them into making mistakes,which they hadn't done at all in the first half.Bilbrook needed an early break through,which thanks to DAN BISSELL,they got.A ball over the top,left DAN a run at goal,his first shot was deflected to JORDAN,who's shot was saved but not held,the ball dropped to DAN who fired over the keeper,GAME ON 2 - 1.Bilbrook now had the bit between their teeth, Rowley were riled.This was definitely a game of two halves.Rowley could have made it 3-1,on the break,SMITHY should have cleared up field,but instead juggled the ball just 2yds off the goal line,his clearance wasn't good,it fell to a Rowley player,who's shot was goal bound,but HARRY was their again to save with his legs off the line.Bilbrook changed their shape,and went 4-4-3.WILLIAM,KYLE,RYAN and JORDAN came on to great effect.They pushed hard for the equaliser,Rowley were leaving big gaps for Bilbrook to attack.DAN got Bilbrook level with a well taken individual goal,his strength won him space,to pull the trigger,the ball flew past the keeper.2 - 2,and well deserved.The full time whistle went,and so for extra-time,my team talk was simple,more of the same. F.T 2 - 2

Extra-time started as normal time finished,with Bilbrook on the front foot.Rowley were shell shocked.DAN should have got his hat-trick,a great run from KYLE,who's cross rolled along the bar and DAN missed it by inches. Bilbrook got their noses in front for the first time,a long punt forward,left KYLE a run at the left back,he beat him and shot from the angle past the out stretched glove of the keeper.3 - 2.Bilbrook were all over Rowley,they had no answer to Bilbrooks effort and togetherness.JORDAN was having fun with all the space he was getting.RYAN could have put the game to bed,but his strike came back of the bar,with the keeper well beaten.Rowley finally got forward,and won a corner with just 1min left on the clock,Rowleys keeper came forward,the ball came over,HARRY picked the ball out the air,he launched a long ball forward and with Rowleys keeper still in Bilbrooks half,the ball was controlled by DAN,and with just one defender to beat,he turned him inside out,and from 35yds out shot into an open goal. 4 - 2.A deserved hat-trick and win for Bilbrook.

Final Score A.E.T 4 - 2

Man of the Match: There were 2 or 3 candidates,Josh for his hard work,Jordan for his never say die attitude,and Jack Rownes for his last ditch tackles,but how could it not go to Hat-trick hero Dan,who never let his head drop,and scared the Rowley defence into submission at times.Well done DAN.

Managers comment: After the shocking first half performance,i never expected the end result.The lads showed great character and tremendous desire to not roll over and die.To be fare i never expected anything less.FANTASTIC. WELL DONE TO THE WHOLE TEAM,YOU ALL PLAYED YOUR PART IN THIS VICTORY.

27/11/2011 Forest Falcons V/s Bilbrook Spartans (League)

On paper this was a for gone conclusion,top v bottom.But in reality it was nothing of the sort.Respect goes to Forest Falcons,they never let us settle,they harassed us,we hadn't a clue how to pass or find a red shirt.I didn't think we could play as poorly as last weeks 1st half against Rowley,how wrong could i be,it was painful to watch,Man of the Match Josh Lawley was covering every blade of grass,and got reward for his endeavour, a superb strike,after juggling the ball past 2,and shot as though he meant it.1 - 0.William could have made it 2,but for a fantastic save from the Falcons keeper.Bilbrook weren't at the races at all,they were sloppy in possession and the passing was wayward.If Falcons had their shooting boots on they could have been level,that's how on a knife edge this game was. H.T 0 - 1

I made a statement at half time,by making 5 changes,to hopefully kick start Bilbrooks football.The first 10mins of the half were no different to the first 40mins,but the game suddenly came alive,Kyle had a fine goal bound strike well saved again by the Falcons keeper.Sub Kyle did get on the score sheet,a long ball from Harry,found Titch,who took it down and played an unselfish square ball for Kyle to hammer home.2 - 0.Bilbrook could now relax with a 2 goal cushion,which was soon 3,a long throw found Kyle who rounded the advancing keeper to fire into an empty net from a tight angle 3 - 0.It was now one-way traffic,Baggie was working his magic down the left,He delivered some fantastic balls in but with no one on the end of them to punish Falcons.He decided to do the punishing himself,with an unstoppable thunder bolt from 30yds,that 2 keepers wouldn't have stopped 4 - 0.Bilbrook had finally got into their groove.The passing was better,( not difficult),we were finding a red shirt at last.Jake chased a lost cause,putting the keeper under pressure,who spilled the ball and Jake nearly capitalised.Kyle was almost a hat trick hero,his shot coming back off the post.Bilbrooks 5th was another belter,a fantastic 30yd cross field ball from Josh Lawley,landed at Baggies feet and in one motion controlled and shot past a shell shocked keeper.5 - 0.It could have and should have been double figures once Bilbrook got going,Falcons keeper had a tremendous game making 4 fine saves during the game .F.T 0 - 5

Man of the Match: Josh Lawley,again,but well deserved,he is such a hard working player,he is what i call a complete team player.His vision and how he reads the game is tremendous,its something you cant coach,you've either got it or not,and he has a unlimited amount.What i will say is,i need the rest of the team to step up their game and push for the man of the match award.

Managers Comment: 1-0 after 50mins of football wasn't what i had in mind,as i said respect to Falcons who were over us like a rash at times,they stopped us playing.Once we got the 2nd the game opened up and we capitalised on it.The most important thing was we got another 3pts in the bag,the goals were a bonus after our first half performance;

04/12/2011 Hasbury Rangers V/s Bilbrook Spartans (League)

We arrived at Hasbury in bright sunshine,very cold but dry,but finished the game soaked to the skin after a deluge just after kick off.After beating Hasbury 5-1 earlier in the season,Bilbrook turned up quietly confident of another 3pts.It wasn't to be,the game was settled by 2 goalkeeping errors.Firstly, Hasburys keeper made a complete hash of a not so difficult shot,he made the save from Titch's strike,but looped the ball over his head and some how palmed it into his own net.0 - 1.The game was messy,possession being given away by both sides.It needed someone to take control of the ball and move it about the team,it was quiet and lacked that killer touch.The second keeper error came from Harry Radford who was caught napping,Bilbrook were on the attack,but lost possession once again,Harry was standing near the edge of the centre circle,a long ball forward,left him a long way to get back to his goal,the striker took one touch in his stride,and in one motion lobbed him before he had even got back in his area.1 - 1.That was it as chances went for the 1st half. H.T 1 - 1

Bilbrook were on the back foot right from the restart,Hasbury certainly wanted to avenge their early season defeat,and were up for it.They were awarded a free kick just outside the area,the strike came back off the bar,with Harry well beaten.Bilbrook couldn't get out their half,to be fair to Harry,he made up for his first half error with 2 fine goal bound saves.Bilbrook were hanging on at times and were lucky to finish the game with a point to show for their efforts.Hasbury will feel they dropped 2 pts rather than gained 1pt,they were by far the more attack minded,and defended in numbers,breaking up any attacks Bilbrook threw at them. F.T 1 - 1

Man of the Match: Jake Watton,for his hard work down the right,Jakes only fault of late,is he neglects his defensive duties,but today he worked hard getting forward,but also tracked back to help out team mate William at right back.Well done Jake,don't let your standards drop now.

Managers Comment: 2 pts dropped in my eyes,lucky for us though other results went our way,with the 2 teams below us also drawing.As manager i can't put my finger on why our performance levels have dropped,our passing,movement and communication have deserted us,we need to get back to basics,and pull together as a TEAM,you don't become a bad TEAM over night,so lets find our MOJO, and get back to how we started the season.I have every faith in us doing this if we stick together and drive each other on,were still top of the league,so be positive and " believe in your own abilities and you will succeed ".Onwards and Upwards.

11/12/2011 Hasbury Rangers Colts V/s Bilbrook Spartans (League)
After beating Hasbury 5-0 earlier in the season,Bilbrook travelled to Halesowen full of confidence.But they were to face a different side all together,a side who wanted to avenge that earlier defeat.Hasbury were definitely up for the challenge.Bilbrook had the good early exchanges,winning 2 corners without any end product.

Hasbury got the break through,totally against the run of play,Bilbrook didn't clear their lines,and allowed a shot to come in from outside the area,beating HARRY low down to his left. 1 - 0.Hasbury also hit the post not long after,they so wanted more than Bilbrook.Bilbrook were forced into an early substitution,KYLE came on for the injured JAKE,and made an instant impact,his forward running pushed Hasbury back.BAGGIE played a pin point ball into TITCH,who just couldn't get it down,and was caught in possession.All this pressure finally told,RYAN chased a lost cause,he drew the keeper out of his goal,to fire Bilbrook level,deservedly so 1 - 1.It could have been more by half time,BAGGIES crossing was bang on the button,but Bilbrook just couldn't convert any. H.T 1 - 1

Bilbrook came out for the 2nd half with more urgency,they had the wind and slope advantage.Bilbrook when on the attack went 4-3-3,to quell Hasburys attacks,they pushed them back,with great effect.Whenever HARRY in Bilbrooks got the ball,he would launch it long,which Hasbury struggled to deal with,and Bilbrook took the lead from such an attack,the defender miss judged the flight of the ball,it dropped to JOSH who played BAGGIE in,he dodged 2 tackles,and got his shot away with his trusty left foot 2-1 Bilbrook.Both sides were playing their part in a tremendous game of football,in difficult wet and windy conditions.Bilbrook hung on to take all 3 pts,to keep them top of the league. F.T 1 - 2

Man of the Match: A true captains performance,well come back Louis,he was back to the player we all know,cutting out passes,winning his headers,and leading by example.Well Done.

Managers Comment: Well done to both teams,a thoroughly entertaining game,just edged by Bilbrook in awful conditions.

18/12/2011 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Barnford Eagles (League Cup Rd 2)
Bilbrook,to be fare,over the last few weeks,have picked up points without playing to their best,so the next round of the cup would be a welcome distraction from their league exploits.They were up against Barnford Eagles,who are riding high in Division 3,a league below Bilbrook,they have scored 75 goals so far this season,so Bilbrook expected a tough challenging game.How wrong could they have been,as they cruised to a convincing 7-0 victory.Bilbrook had all the early possession,with two early half chances going begging.The recalled KYLE,got the first of his three goals,a great control and turn by RYAN,found KYLE with a clever pass,and as the keeper came to challenge,fired past him from the angle of the area.1-0.Bilbrook were in the groove now,chances were a plenty,TITCH,RYAN,and JACK ENEFFER all could have got on the score sheet.Bilbrook were running riot,Barnford were struggling to contain them,they attacked in waves.JACK fired just over from 35yds out which had the keeper worried.The Bilbrook pressure finally told,a great defence splitting pass,which BAGGIE took in stride,to fire past the keeper 2-0.Bilbrook were in complete control,with JACK ENEFFER,pulling the strings in midfield.The flood gates were now open,TITCH made it 3-0 after another fantastic through ball left him a clear run on goal,and a simple side foot past the shell shocked keeper.Number 4 wasn't far behind,another fantastic goal,a long ball by HARRY,which found KYLE,who,in one touch,controlled and lobbed the keeper form 25yds out,Quality.Just before the break,KYLE got his hat-trick,after he was hauled down in the box,he stepped up to take the resulting penalty,and made no mistake.5 - 0.It was one way traffic to half time. H.T 5 - 0

Barnford came out for the second half with a bit more fight,they made Bilbrook work for possession,forcing them back but with no real goal threat,this was purely down to Bilbrooks solid back four,who were hardly troubled.When they were, they were in control led by Man of the Match and Captain LOUIS.Both sides were finding it hard to play on a slippy pitch.Bilbrook seemed to take their foot off the gas,which is understandable when your 5-0 up.Bilbrook started to make changes,bringing all 5 subs 1 by 1,one of which RYAN DAVIES,scored his first goal for Bilbrook with his first touch,he received a pass on the edge of the box,and in one motion fired wide of the keepers left hand.6 - 0.Bilbrook were passing the ball around with ease,Barnford had no reply to last 10mins of pressure.LOUIS made a great individual run into the box,and was unceremoniously hauled down,he took the ball,but handed it to keeper HARRY to take,he stepped up and smashed it past the keeper who was sent the wrong way.Fare play to LOUIS for that.7-0.Bilbrook thoroughly deserved the win,a fantastic TEAM performance. F.T 7 - 0

Man of the Match: For the 2nd week running,LOUIS got it,another fantastic performance,soaked up everything thrown at him,again lead by example.Back to his best.And for how he unselfishly allowed Harry to take the spot kick.

08/01/2012 Withymoor Colts EWC V/s Bilbrook Spartans (League)

After all the turkey and festive fare and a 3 week break from our last game,we couldn't have wanted such a tough game to start the new year,a trip to 2nd in the league and as i said earlier in the season a fellow title contender.Top of the table Bilbrook knew they were in for a tough game against 2nd in the table Withymoor,the last time they met Bilbrook ran out winners by the odd goal in a 2-1 result.

The game under way with both sides finding each other out,their were good early half chances for both sides.Withymoors first goal scoring effort,was well saved by Bilbrooks keeper HARRY,who was to make 2 more fine saves as the half went on to keep Withymoor at bay.Withymoor got 2 early corners which Bilbrook dealt with.Bilbrooks captain LOUIS,was leading by example,he threw himself 100% into every challenge.As the half went on Bilbrook started to get more into the game,Man of the Match JAKE was having a tremendous game,working hard to get back to defend,and getting forward at every opportunity,TITCH and strike partner RYAN worked an opening with some one touch football,leaving RYAN to draw the keeper only to fire into the side netting.Withymoor on chances alone should have been 3 of 4 up by half time,as Bilbrook didn't register a clear shot at Withymoors goal.Bilbrook finished the half strong and could take heart going into the half time break at 0-0. H.T 0 - 0

Withymoor didnt take their chances in the first half,so Bilbrook playing down the slope had to make every opportunity count.Bilbrook started the 2nd half in the ascendancy,pushing Withymoor back,not giving them a minute to settle.Bilbrooks first effort,came from an unlikely source,centre half JACK ROWNES,ran the length of the field only to be thwarted by a fantastic save from the Withymoor keeper.Bilbrook were controlling the game as Withymoor did in the first half.Their midfield was winning their own battles.Defensively Bilbrook were a solid unit,standing up to any Withymoor attack.Bilbrook were awarded a free kick just inside Withymoors half,KYLE came on for the hard working TITCH,and made an instant impact,the free kick came in,KYLE flicked it on to the rejuvenated RYAN to run on to and fire Bilbrook into a deserved lead. 0 - 1.Bilbrook were full of confidence and forced 2 more fine saves from the Withymoor keeper.It was definitely a game of two halves.With just 10mins left on the clock,Bilbrook got their and RYANS 2nd of the game.A fantastic never say die run down the left by JOSH LAWLEY,he charged into the box,the keeper came out to challenge,JOSH lifted the ball over him,leaving RYAN a simple tap into an empty net.This took the wind out of Withymoors sails,they were a spent force with no reply,all Bilbrook had to do was stay focused and see the game out,which they did to take home 3 well deserved points. F.T 0 - 2

Man of the Match: Won by the ever improving JAKE WATTON,i said to JAKE his only problem was the defending side to his game,which he has worked on.Martyn was virtually a spectator for most of the game,as JAKE worked back to help out defensively.Well done JAKE.

Managers Comment: A tough game to start the new year,but the lads came through with flying colours,they soaked up the first half pressure and punished Withmoor in the 2nd half,showing them the way to goal.A tremendous TEAM effort,from H through to the strikers and not forgetting the subs.This was a huge step towards our goal of finishing in the top 2,which was what the lads set themselves before the season started.PROUD,PROUD,PROUD.Well done every one of you.

16/01/2012 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Black Country Rangers (League)

After last weeks tremendous win against our promotion rivals,Bilbrook faced Black Country Rangers,who earned themselves a well deserved point in a 1-1 draw earlier in the season.So Bilbrook knew they were in for a tough game,against a well organised side.Bilbrook started the brighter,working the ball down the channels,with some great balls in from BAGGIE,with no end result.Bilbrook were awarded 2 early free kicks which also came to nothing.Black Country defended for their lives at times,they were under the cosh for long periods.but stood up to the bombardment,when they did get forward,Man of the Match JACK ROWNES was on hand to deal with it..Bilbrook had plenty of the ball,but couldn't find the net.Bilbrooks fifth corner of the half was shot goal wards,Rangers some how cleared it after an unbelievable goal line scramble.How the half finished goalless was beyond me,that was down to Bilbrooks lack of composure in front of goal and Rangers dogged determination in defence. H.T 0 - 0

Bilbrook needed to step it up a gear,relax more on the ball and make their shots count in the 2nd half.Within minutes of the restart,Bilbrook broke the deadlock,after some fine work down the right,the ball dropped to TITCH,who hit a speculative shot from 25yds,which flew over the keeper.1-0.Minutes later it was 2-0.a quick corner was floated in,and after another goal mouth scramble,JACK ROWNES put it away from 3yds out.Bilbrook had the bit between their teeth now.WILLIAM HUGHES made it 3-0 with his first goal of the season,from a throw in,the ball was put in the box which was only half cleared,and WILLIAM punished them.Bilbrook took their foot off the gas,Rangers to their credit,didn't throw the towel in though,they showed great team spirit,and attacked Bilbrook,forcing a save from HARRY RADFORD,and making Bilbrook defend,credit to Rangers.Bilbrook soaked up the pressure and got back in control,sub KYLE LAVELLE came on,and with his first touch set up BAGGIE who fired high into the roof of the net 4-0.It was damage limitation time for Rangers as Bilbrook drove forward.KYLE was the provider once again for Bilbrooks 5th,he crossed from the right,BAGGIE controlled it,his pin point cross found JORDAN who's header nestled in the bottom corner 5-0.KYLE could have made it 6,but his free kick was well saved by the Rangers keeper,who put it over for a corner.Bilbrooks 6th came from a corner,and another 1st goal of the season for JOSH SMITH,who nicked in at the near post to finish 6-0.The goal rout was finally over with another scrambled goal,another fine cross,again wasn't cleared with JOSHUA LAWLEY on hand from 4yds out to poke it home 7-0.This was definitely a game of 2 halves.Credit to Rangers who didn't stop trying,fare play to them for that.

Man of the Match : This went to JACK ROWNES,who was always in the right place at the right time and thoroughly deserved his goal.

Managers Comment: If you had said at half time we would run out 7-0 winners i would have laughed in your face,but credit to the lads,who turned the game on its head,and showed tremendous TEAM spirit to drive on to put the game to bed with 7 different goal scorers.Well done once again to everyone of you.You all played your part.Keep Believing.

22/01/2012 Bilbrook Spartans V/s West Hagley North (League)

In conditions more suited to kite flying than football,meaning both sides needed to keep it on the floor and play.Bilbrook started the brighter,pushing Hagley back.Their first goal bound chance fell to JOSH SMITH,who guided his shot goalward,but for a fine save should have put Bilbrook ahead.The resulting corner was only half cleared,RYAN DILLON latched onto the loose ball,his shot was blocked for another corner,which came to nothing.West Hagley were certainly up for the challenge against top of the table Bilbrook.They were organised and first to the tackle,Bilbrook were sloppy when in possession and gave the ball away far to easy.The break through came totally against the run of play,Bilbrook broke from their half,a fine pass found DAN BISSELL who found RYAN DILLON unmarked to fire home from 6yds out 1-0.This should have spurred Bilbrook on to get a second,but West Hagley weren't going to give up without a fight,and credit to themfor that.H.T. 1- 0

Bilbrook needed to step up a gear,and be more composed on the ball in front of goal.West Hagley started the second half the brighter,and pushed Bilbrook back,they got an early corner which Bilbrook failed to clear,the ball fell just outside the box,the Hagley player shot past an unsighted HARRY RADFORD 1-1.On the balance of play,West Hagley did deserve it.Hagley should have taken the lead,but for a fine one handed save from HARRY RADFORD,keeping the scores level.How important that save was,Bilbrook were awarded a free kick just outside the area,JORDAN MORGAN floated it in,and KYLE LAVELLE met it perfectly to head it home2-1.West Hagley weren't finished yet,they got themselves back on level terms,they were awarded a very dubious corner,which was clearly a goal kick,but Bilbrook were a sleep,and West Hagley punished them.2-2.Bilbrook through everything at Hagley for the last 10mins,but Hagley stood up to the challenge with some last ditch and at times frenetic defending.The result was a fare one in the end,both sides played their part in a great game of football.F.T 2 - 2

Man of the Match: This went to Jack Rownes once again,who is so composed when under pressure,nothing seems to phase him,but for a nasty tackle late on after a great run could have got us the points.

Managers Comment: As i said a felt this was a fare result,i knew Hagley would give us a game after the last time we met,with no subs to call on,they deserved their point. As manager i felt the referee spoilt the game, he was far to fussy,stopping the game at every challenge or tackle,which spoilt it for both sides.

29/01/2012 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Rowley Rhinos (League)

After dropping 2pts at home last week Bilbrook needed to show their worth,and why their top of the league.And they did by the bucket load,Rowley didn't know what had hit them.Bilbrook were out the blocks from the first whistle.Two early chances,the first fell to JOSH LAWLEY,who's shot forced a save,and a great ball forward from Man of the Match JORDAN MORGAN,left RYAN DILLON 1on1 with the keeper,but put his shot just wide of the post.It was only a matter of time before the deadlock was broken,and so KYLE LAVELLE obliged,his first shot was saved,but he was hand to hit the rebound 1-0.Bilbrooks 2nd was an absolute peach,another long ball forward,found KYLE LAVELLE,who stretched to cross,which found LIAM WHITTAKER,unmarked in the area,as the keeper closed him down he just cheekily dinked it over him 2-0. Bilbrook were firing on all cylinders.A free kick deep in Rowleys half,was floated in,but they some how scrambled it clear for a corner.The corner came in,Rowley tried at least 4 times to get it clear,it pinged round like a pinball,RYAN DILLON was able to poke it home from just 2yds 3-0.Whenever Rowley did get possession Bilbrook were snapping away at their heals,Bilbrook were solid at the back and well organised.Bilbrook worked the ball to JACK ENEFFER,who played a great ball into LIAM WHITTAKER,whos fantastic side foot flick over Rowleys back four,left KYLE LAVELLE a clear run on goal,he slotted it home for his 2nd and Bilbrooks 4th.Bilbrook thoroughly deserved their 4 goal half time lead. H.T 4 - 0

Rowley came out with a bit more about them 2nd half,putting Bilbrook under pressure,which Bilbrook dealt with easily,before long Bilbrook were back into their first half rythme.Sub DAN BISSELL fizzed a shot just wide of the post.Rowleys keeper pulled off a fine save from JAKE WATTON,after some great work from DAN BISSEL.Bilbrooks 5th was a fine TEAM goal,which involved MATTY GREENAWAY,JAKE WATTON,DAN BISSELL and goal scorer LIAM WHITTAKER,some fine pass and move football 5-0.Rowley couldn't get out of their half.KYLE LAVELLE completed the rout with his third of the game,LOUIS TAYLOR and JOSH LAWLEY were the providers,LOUIS cut inside,passed to JOSH,he played an inch perfect pass to KYLE who fired home 6-0.This was a complete TEAM performance,with no let up from start to finish. F.T 6 - 0

Man of the Match: This could have gone to any number of players,including hat trick hero Kyle,but it went to JORDAN,who was in complete control even when under the odd bit of pressure Rowley put on us.His dead ball delivery was top rate.

Managers Comment: This could have been a potential banana skin of a game,it was far from that,this was a complete and total TEAM performance.I KNOW I HARP ON ABOUT HOW PROUD I AM OF EVERYONE OF THIS TEAM,WORDS AREN'T ENOUGH,BUT I AM.On their day no one can compete with their effort and team work.They work so hard for each other.

19/02/2012 West Hagley North V/s Bilbrook Spartans (League Cup)

Bilbrook rolled up at West Hagley with a win and draw in the 2 previous meetings between the two sides.The league positions would count for nothing in what could quite easily be a banana skin of a game.Bilbrook started by far the brighter of the 2 sides,Man of the Match KYLE LAVELLE was working hard in midfield putting West Hagley on the back foot.Hagley struggled to cope with the on slaught of attack on attack.Bilbrook needed to make this pressure count.Up popped MATTY GREENAWAY,his near post corner was fluffed by the Hagley keeper who palmed the ball into his own net.It was only what Bilbrook deserved. 0-1.Hagley into the game more,forcing a couple of corners,which Bilbrook dealt with comfortably.Bilbrook needed a 2nd to settle them,which they got thanks to another mistake from the Hagley keeper,MATTY GREENAWAY won the ball from a loose Hagley pass,he charged past 2 defenders,his cross was miss handled and dropped by the keeper,RYAN DILLON was on hand to poke it home from 2yds out 0-2 .Bilbrook could relax and play their usual passing game.The Goal of the Game and Definitely the Season was about to be unleashed.Hagley played a defence splitting ball forward,leaving the striker in a sprint with Bilbrook keeper HARRY RADFORD. HARRY raced off his line getting to the ball first on the edge of the ' D ',it sat up perfectly,he volleyed it to clear it up field,the ball sailed high, long and without bouncing flew straight over the back pedalling Hagley keeper,leaving him no chance of saving it, the net bulged,eat your heart out Becks.Stunning goal,and boy did he and the lads celebrate it. 0-3 .Bilbrook went into the break 3-0 up,with to be fare goals coming with a little bit of lady lucks help,but you take the goals no matter how they come.

H.T 0 - 3

Bilbrook knew the first 10mins of the 2nd half would be difficult,they knew Hagley would come at them like a wounded animal,and so they did,they started the half much brighter,credit to them for not throwing the towel in,Hagley were doing to Bilbrook what Bilbrook did to them in the first half.Bilbrook backed off and defended deep,which is dangerous.Hagley got one back after a mistake by Bilbrooks defence,they dillied and dallied instead of clearing it long,the Hagley number 9 nicked in to fire them a deserved goal. 1-3.It was definitely a game of two halves.Bilbrook tried to gain control,with MATTY GREENAWAY,JOSH LAWLEY and KYLE LAVELLE working hard to push Hagley back.Hagley weren't finished yet,Bilbrook sat off them near the edge of the area,a shot came in through a jumble of legs leaving Bilbrook keeper HARRY unsighted and rooted to the spot as the ball flew past him.2 - 3.Game on,Hagley had got their tails up and pushed for the equaliser,Bilbrook made 4 subs to freshen it up and to stop Hagley playing and try to gain control once again.Winger MATTY GREENAWAY put Hagley under pressure with some great runs forward and some telling crosses which needed an end product to put the game to bed.Bilbrook stood up to Hagley to stop the game going into extra time,and so progress into the Semi-Final for the first time since the TEAM was formed. F.T 2 - 3

Man of the Match: This was won for sheer hard work and determination,KYLE worked hard to break up the play of Hagley and be the link between defence and attack

Managers Comment: A tremendous effort from everyone to get to your first ever semi-final,we rode our luck at times but also got lady luck to shine on us,with 2 goals from keeper mistakes and a stunning 70yd strike from HARRY.Credit to Hagley who's league position doesn't reflect how well they played.

WELL DONE ONCE AGAIN TO EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THIS WIN.

26/02/2012 Dudley Sports V/s Bilbrook Spartans (League)

This loss is a blow to Bilbrooks title hopes,a win would have put Dudley out of the promotion equation,but it wasn't to be.Dudley set their stall out from the start,they wanted it so much more than Bilbrook,they were first to everything,and were out to spoil Bilbrooks passing game,which they did to the letter.Bilbrook had the best of the first 10mins of the game,forcing Dudley back,winning 3 or 4 corners which came to nothing.Dudley started to take control,and were gifted a goal after some slack defending,a long ball forward was miss timed by Jordan Morgan,his header fell in to the path of the Dudley player,who took a touch and placed it past the out stretched hand of Bilbrook keeper Harry Radford.1-0.Bilbrook still pressed forward looking to get on level terms.They were awarded at least 6 free kicks in the first half which didn't hurt Dudley,this was to be Bilbrooks down fall.Bilbrook didn't deserve to go into the break one nil down,but thats football for you.They had the lions share of possession but with no end product to show for it.Bilbrook failure to make the most of their dead ball opportunities was to be their undoing.H.T 1 - 0

Bilbrook needed to come out for the second half with a bit more vigour,and get at Dudley as they did to them.They needed to be more composed on the ball and get it down on the deck and play their own blend of football.Dudley had other ideas,they started the half as they finished the first,snapping away at Bilbrooks heals.It was a much more even affair.The next goal would be vital to either side.And so Dudley obliged,a hopeful ball in from Bilbrooks left,looped up and as keeper Harry Radford came to punch it clear he was clearly fouled,not given,instead of punching it clear he was spun round and punched it into his own net.2 - 0.This was a big blow to Bilbrook.It could have been far worse,but for 2 fantastic saves by Harry Radford thus keeping Bilbrooks hopes alive.The double save seemed to boost Bilbrook,they pushed Dudley back and got a deserved goal with just 2mins to go.Matty Greenaway latched on to a loose ball,he turned left and right in the area,and unleashed a left foot strike past the keeper.2-1.The goal was to little to late to salvage a point,with Dudley running out winners,Bilbrook have to forget this now as they have another tough game against undefeated Wordsley at home next week.Promotion is still in Bilbrooks hands,they need 2 wins from their final 3 games,to gain back to back promotion.
F.T 2 - 1

Man of the Match: Josh Lawley won this once again for his never say die attitude.He threw himself into tackles and tried to get the ball down and get Bilbrook moving forward.But you need your team mates to help you,which they didn't.Well done Josh.

Managers Comment: Promotion is still in our hands,we need to pull together again as a TEAM,forget this result,regroup and come out fighting and take the game to Wordsley,who wont roll over and let us win that's for sure,so heads up lads,as i say " BELIEVE IN YOUR OWN ABILITIES AND YOU WILL SUCCEED"

04/03/2012 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Wordsley Wasps (League)

Game of the day was definitely the top of the table clash between unbeaten 1st placed Wordsley and 2nd placed Bilbrook.Having lost to Wordsley earlier in the season,Bilbrook wanted revenge and the number 1 spot.After losing to Dudley last week Bilbrook changed their team around and went 4-5-1,basically to stifle Wordsleys midfield and their attacking options,and it worked to a T,as Bilbrook produced a tremendous TEAM spirit and bucket loads of effort.Bilbrook got at Wordsley right from the Kick Off,they pressed high up the field not giving Wordsley a minute to settle.They controlled the pace of the game,so to go one down totally against the run of play was unbelievable.A long punt forward left Martyn McCutcheon a long chase,as keeper Harry Radford charged off his line he slipped in the muddy conditions,leaving the striker to nestle the ball in the bottom corner 1 - 0.This didn't effect Bilbrook,in fact it drove them on,they deserved to get back on level terms,they won a free kick just inside the Wordsley half,Jack Eneffer stepped up to take.he launched a long left footed ball forward,with the swirling wind causing problems,the keeper dillied,and with Kyle Lavelle baring down on him,he completely miss judged it and it flew straight into the net 1 - 1.The pressure from Bilbrook was relentless,wiinning numerous corners,one of which was headed just over by Jordan Morgan.Bilbrook got their noses in front.after some fantastic interplay between Josh Lawley and Kyle Lavelle.leaving Kyle a free shot which flew past the Wordsley keeper 2 - 1.The best TEAM was now in front,and deservedly so.The next goal could and would be crucial to both sides.And Bilbrook obliged,straight from Wordsleys re-start Bilbrook won possession,Kyle Lavelle unleashed a stunning strike from way out,it flew like an Exocet missile straight over the statuesque keeper.3 - 1.It could have and should have been more by the break,with Matthew Greenaway hitting the post with Kyle Lavelle missing the follow up to missing out on his hat-trick. H.T 3 - 1

Bilbrook knew Wordsley would come at them like a wounded animal in the 2nd half,and so they did,using the windy conditions to their advantage,they forced Bilbrook back,but Bilbrook defended as TEAM,their work rate was breath taking,every time Wordsley got possession they wern't allowed any time or space to produce anything.Bilbrook weren't going to throw this away.Wordsleys only shot of note in the half was a speculative drive from 30yds,which produced a fantastic save over the bar from Harry Radford.Every Bilbrook player became men today.The final nail in Wordsleys 100% coffin came from another breakaway charge down the left,Matty Greenaway sprinted clear of his marker,his pin point cross found Josh Lawley who met the ball perfectly to head home. 4 - 1.Game over.This was a complete and total TEAM effort,from the keeper to their lone striker.Wordsley were forced into submission from the 1st whistle to the last. F.T 4 - 1

Man of the Match: This has to go to the TEAM,not an individual.No i in TEAM.

Managers Comment: Proud - Proud - Proud - Proud.I have to say on a personal note that in the 10 years ive been managing this was by far the best TEAM performance ive been involved in.We changed the TEAM around and also the formation,and it worked perfectly,every player played their part.They came off that pitch as men,no longer boys.SUPERB.Well done to each and every one of you

11/03/2012 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Forest Falcons (League)

After last weeks tremendous victory over promotion rivals Wordsley,Bilbrook welcomed bottom of the table Forest Falcons.On paper this was a forgone conclusion.Not in Bilbrooks eyes though,how a team can change in one week,from the best performance of the season to a totally disjointed one.Bilbrook were running round like headless chickens,chasing shadows in the bright sunlight,they were 2nd to everything,no shape,no unity,no ideas and couldnt string 2 passes together,so it wasnt a shock to see Falcons take a deserved if surprising lead,scored by their ever busy striker who was causing our centre halves real problems with his tricks and movement.0-1.Our first real chance came from the out of sorts Jordan,who was to be substituted early on for Ryan,as our shape and team formation just wasn't working,so Ryan came on as we went back to 4-4-2.This pushed Falcons back,Titch headed just wide from a corner,and William was denied by a save.Bilbrook finally got on level terms,some great work from Man of the Match Josh,playing a pin point pass into Titch's path,the resulting cross found sub Ryan who fired home H.T 1-1.

Bilbrook needed all 3pts from the game,and results going their way elsewhere to guarantee back to back promotion.Bilbrook started the 2nd half as they did the 1st,devoid of ideas and drive.That's until Ryan popped up with his 2nd of the game,Jake played him in and from the angle Ryan picked his spot from the angle.2-1.Bilbrook could now relax a little and start playing their customary flowing football.The 3rd was a fine individual goal from Kyle,as he bamboozled 2 defenders with step overs,as he jinked and danced along the touch line,his manager screamed for him to pass,but as usual he didn't listen to him and decided to shoot,scoring off the keepers out stretched legs,what does the manager know,eh.LoL.3-1.After going behind early on Bilbrook were now in control.Smithy came on and soon found himself on the score sheet,he made a late gambling run into the box,finding himself unmarked to finish low into the bottom corner after a great low cross from JakeF.T.4-1.

Bilbrook made hard work of this game,but the 3pts were what were required,and with Withymoor only managing a draw,this meant Bilbrook were guaranteed of finishing at least 2nd in the league and a second promotion in consecutive seasons,what a fantastic achievement from everyone concerned.WELL DONE TO YOU ALL. Division 1 here we come.

Man of the Match: Josh Lawley,in the first half when every one else was still was still in bed he at least tried to take control,with his passing and dogged hard work.

Managers Comment: Back to Back promotion is a fantastic achievement from everyone who is part of the Spartans set up.Its been a pleasure to manage such a fantastic group of lads,who in my eyes became men against Wordsley.Your a joy to work with,at times frustrating.I've got a lot of respect for you all,and you honour me with that same respect,Thank You.

Lets give our semi-final opponents a game,lets do our utmost to get to our first ever final,if we don't and you have given your all,as manager i can't ask for more than that from you.As i say,

" BELIEVE IN YOUR OWN ABILITIES AND YOU WILL SUCCEED "

04/04/2012 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Stourport Swifts (League Cup S.Final)

Bilbrook jnr Spartans out fought,out battled and out classed their Division 1 opponents.Right from the kick off Bilbrook were on the front foot.They hassled Stourport into submission.Stourports only threat on goal was with just 2mins of the game to play,they hit the bar and headed the rebound over.Bilbrook controlled the half for long periods,KYLE and BAGGIE had chances to score early on.Bilbrooks midfield were on top from the start,disrupting and breaking up their play,this game was won in midfield.Bilbrook got the break through midway through the first half.KYLE pounced on a great pass from ever improving Martyn,he raced forward,beating his marker with a jinking run,he delivered a tremendous cross,which fell to BAGGIE,he controlled it and with a fine left footed strike found the net,the ball nestled in the far corner.1-0.Bilbrook could have been 2 up.a fantastic run by Louis,starting deep in his own half,he won a 50/50 challenge on the half way line,the ball fell kindly,he unleashed a 35yd thunderbolt which came back off the angle,with the keeper well beat.A minute later KYLE put a fine effort just over the bar.Bilbrook deserved their slim half time lead. H.T 1 - 0

I told the lads to be on their guard for the first 10mins as Stourport would come out like a wounded animal.Bilbrook just had to carry on where they left off in the first half.Stourport pushed hard for that elusive equaliser,but Bilbrook stood up to everything thrown at them.JACK ENEFFER tried his luck from 45yds with a speculative shot,which the keeper had to put over the bar.JOSH LAWLEY could also have been on the score sheet after some great work from KYLE,resulting with JOSHS shot flying just wide.Bilbrook could have and should have won this by more,had they taken their chances.Bilbrook restricted Stourport to one serious effort late on.This was a tremendous victory,going into the game as under dogs,but finishing it as top dogs.Promotion and a cup final in one season shows how far this TEAM has come,they worked so hard for each other,from HARRY in goal to loan striker KYLE,and the 3 subs.The final should not and will not hold any fears for this TEAM,they will go in as under dogs again,which will be to our advantage.NO FEAR. F.T 1 - 0

Man of The Match: This once again went to the TEAM,no one could be chosen individually,as everybody worked so hard for this victory collectively.

Managers Comment: Where do i start,i feel like im starting to sound like a broken record.Im running out of comments and credits to say about this awesome bunch of lads.This game was won with sheer grit and determination.A top draw TEAM effort.Words cannot explain how PROUD i am.The lads did this for themselves and themselves alone.

WELL DONE TO YOU ALL

15/04/2012 Bilbrook Spartans V/s Dudley Sports (League)

Bilbrook finished their league campaign with a goal fest.Dudley turned up in relaxed mood,wearing beach wear their last game of the season.But Bilbrook were the ones who relaxed into their own style of play.Baggie was on fire today,back to his best.He provided the pass after beating 2 defenders for Louis to side foot home 1-0.Dudley were restricted to long range half chances.Baggie made it 2-0,after Dudley failed to clear their lines,he hit a sweet right foot over the keeper.Dudley could have got one back after 2 corners,but couldn't find their shooting boots.Bilbrooks 3rd came from a free kick,floated in to Dudleys area,Titch flicked it on,Baggie was on hand to fire his 2nd of the game. H.T 3 - 0

Kyle started the the 2nd half goal scoring,he ran to keep the ball from going for a throw on the right,his touch took him 10yds from the bi line,he crossed it goal wards,but it sailed over the keeper into the top corner.4-0.Bilbrook were relentless in attack.Dudley couldn't get out their half.Smithy made a run into the area and was fouled,Penalty.Their was only one possible taker,it had to be Martyn,who is the only player not to have scored this season.He stepped up and placed it passed the keeper.5-0.Josh Lawley made it 6,after some great approach play from Kyle and Jake,leaving Josh a run on goal to fire inside the keepers near post 6-0.Ryan Dillon finished the scoring after some great work from Kyle again,his pass found Harry who's touch left Ryan a free shot at goal 7-0.This was a totall TEAM performance once again,as we've seen regulary this season.Bring on The League Cup Final. F.T 7 - 0.

Man of the Match: Baggie deserved this,he was back to his best,he was provider and helped himself to 2 quality goals.So difficult to play against in this form.

Managers Comment: What a way to bring the curtain down on a tremendous league season.Another total TEAM performance.