Match report courtesy of Man U for the pre-Worldnet friendly.

Big thanks to Shaun for bringing his side over to Partington this morning. Ipswich had a 2-0 half time lead and went 3-0 further ahead in the 2nd half. Im sure Shaun will be first to admit that the score did not reflect the game as the MUFC side had had the majority of the posession and the attack. Ipswich keeper was in superb form making numeous top draw saves and his kicking was causing havoc with the balls into our back 4.

Ipswich 3rd goal was a cross, that was looping over only for the ball to swereve and it somehow hit the back post and went in.
Strangely enough, the mUFC equaliser was almost identical, as the mishit cross swerved, hit the back post and went in!

A good game played in a great spirit on what was a great 4g surface. Im sure there will be a few stiff legs come later today given the size of the pitch.

A good warm up for Worldnet for our vets team and a few new faces in the team as well today. Dont think Ive played in a game where the starting X1 contained 7 people called Andy! (least it made the name remebering a bit easy!)

Ipswich MOM – Goalkeeper (Andy Chapman)

Ipswich Town are currently running an auction on Ebay for a shirt signed by the players. The shirt is from New Zealand defender Tommy Smith and is being auctioned off with all proceeds going to the Christchurch Earthquake Fund.

Earlier today, it was confirmed that Town fan Phil Coppeard had died in the Christchurch earthquake.

Link to Tommy Smith’s shirt on Ebay>>

We lost 8-0, it was only 1-0 at half time. The game was played in windy conditions and we played aganst the slope first half but were up against it for nearly all the half with Millwall enjoying most of the posession and all of the chances. Apart from some good saves by James it could have been a few more. It was one of those games where if Millwall didnt win the first ball, they won the second one instead.

Second half, we though we would play better, but we didnt and we were worse. Millwall dominated the game even more and we werent at the races at all. Millwall had some good players (perhaps half of them were different from the ones we lost at home to) and they took advantage of there big squad to stretch the game towards the end and bury a few more. James had no chance on any of the goals, which were either scored by some good Millwall play – or mistakes from us. More of less anything we tried didnt really work, with players swapping positions to try and stem the flow of goals and improve our performance, but with little effect on the game.

I think we had 1 decent shot at goal, and one corner – both second half.

For whatever reason, it never worked out at all today. As a team, we had a bit of a shocker really, think we were all stunned by the performance as we had a good squad out on paper.

Both teams observed the minutes silence with sincerity. Millwall were grateful to play us (scoreline aside) as no one has played them on their own turf for 2 years.

Lets look forward to next weeks game instead at home v Bury and a better performance, and hopefully a better result !

After a lengthy winter break, PDFC were back in league action in the first fixture of 2011 away on a mild Saturday morning in deepest Hertfordshire. PDFC were eager to continue the excellent spirit, fun and results of 2010. However, it was a challenge for many of the team making it to the game, reasons included mega (Hugh Heffner esque) parties till 6:30am, late night curries, the traditional hangover and of course the dreaded M25 ! Indeed the inconvenient closing of the later led to the team Atherton/Marsden + Basham having to tour round Hertfordshires many pretty market towns (Tommy now wants a penthouse flat in Harlow!) whilst Team Cracknall/Lockwoods and Candler were settling in nicely in there parking space on the M25 for hours and could not make it to the game at all cos of an accident (peaking at travelling 200m in 30 mins! – not bad if it was a weekday!) On another day, you could have been forgiven for thinking that it was a Top Gear challenge for PDFC to get to Watford.

Indeed the turmoil of Keane geting the sack had not only spilt over into PDFC travel plans, but had infected Watford also ! Some heavy rain pre match at Met Police FC led to the groundsman calling the fixture off due to a waterlogged pitch – though this was not confirmed until (some of) both teams had arrived. However, with some resourcefulness, Watford were able to find another venue and those players that had not gone missing in action since leaving home were able to convoy to the 3G pitch on the otherside of town.

With the M25 robbing PDFC of 4 players, an already threadbare squad (of now 7 players) was bolstered by 4 loan signings from a very generous and friendly Watford team. A quick change, minimal warm up and some brief introductions meant that the game kicked off at about 11am. The starting line up consisted of a Watford player in goal, Phil at right back, with Robbie (Ross’s mate) and loan signings from Watford at Centre and left back. In midfield, Adam was on the right with Ross providing balance down the left flank and ever dependable Martin and a Watford loan signing in the centre. Up front were Rob and Tommy. We even had a ref and 2 lino’s – organised !

Due to the circumstances – with a few players having to play out of position, and 5 making there PDFC debuts, it naturally took a while for PDFC to click. Watford started off the brighter of the 2 teams and it was clear they had a tricky left winger and a pacey forward. The first half an hour of the game was competitive, and pretty even with a Watford maybe slightly on top and they were able to test the keeper early on with a couple of long range shoots that were well saved. As the half moved on, PDFC confidence grew as we got used to each other and we were able to pass the ball round more fluently (sometimes !). It was clear that gaffer Beecroft had made some shrewd loan signings in the transfer window with Robbie and Alex (from Watford) looking solid at centre backs – just like the combo of Linighan and Youds. Further forward, a (Dalian Atkinsons braun over Jamie Peters speed) forward line of experienced goal poacher Rob and (defender turned attacker) Tommy began to hold the ball up well to bring the rest of the team into the game where possible !

Indeed, following some good back to goal work by Rob, the (fair) ref from Watford gave PDFC a free kick to the right of the centre of the penalty area after handball by a Watford defender. Up stepped a curry fuelled Martin to place an accurate free kick over the wall to the keepers right and put PDFC 1-0 up (fair point ob, he could have headed it away!) However, the lead was short lived as Watford were level about 5 minutes later. A corner by Watford was not cleared first time by PDFC and a Watford shot saw the ball agonisingly slowly dribble (at a pace similar to cars on the M25) over the line via the keepers hand, the post and anything else in the way that it could touch.

The even scoreline going into a welcomed break reflected the minimal difference between both teams – Watford having slightly more posession but not really creating that many clear cut chances whilst at the other end PDFC looked dangerous on occasions as well.

Half time : Watford 1 – PDFC 1

Some swaps by Watford during halftime allowed 2 further Watford players to make there debuts for PDFC. This led to more reschuffling by manager Martin with Adam moving into centre midfield and different Hornets playing at left back and right midfield.

The second half continued in the fair spirited / committed nature of the first, with some even play from both teams in either keeping the ball for a bit – or then giving it away to the opposition ! For PDFC, Martin made some dangerous dribbles into the Watford area whilst at the other end Watford were trying to get there fast forwards into the game. The contest looked like petering out into a draw, but with a few minutes left a neat bit of skill and turn by Tommy on the edge of the area led to a powerful shot being spilled by the Watford keeper – and an unmarked Rob was well placed 6 yards out to place the ball into the bottom right of the goal. This led to PDFC putting up a backs to the wall last 5 minutes and defending resoultly against increasing Watford pressure without to much goal mouth action. After a couple of minutes injury time, and a change of ref, the new ref blew up and an exhausted PDFC were able to revel in a smash and grab victory in this good natured contest !!

Full time : Watford 1 – PDFC 2.

In nets, thanks to the Watford keeper for helping us out and making some decent saves, Phil was again consistent at right back, with Robbie and Alex loking strong in the centre and the Watford left back being steady as well. In midfield, Ross put in some dangerous crosses – especially in the first half. In the centre, Martin and Adam gave lots of energy and the watford player on the right also looked dangerous going forward. Up front, Rob and Tommy done well holding the ball up and bring others into play, especially as the service to them was not always brilliant.

As ever, thanks to Shaun and everyone else for organinsing the team to ensure this game went ahead.

The next game is away in Sauf East London at Millwall next Saturday.

PDFC staring line up verses Watford was:
1. A keeper from Watford
2. Phil T
3. Left back from Watford
4. Pathos (Watford)
5. Alex (Watford)
6. Robbie Maynard
7. Adam Basham
8. Martin Beecroft
9. Rob Atherton
10.Tommy Marsden
11.Ross Geraghty
12. Right midfielder (Watford)
13. Matt (Watford)

Goals: 2 contrasting goals – a 25 yard free kick from Martin – and an Alex Mathie poachers finish from close in by Rob.

Upcoming PDFC fixtures: 15Th January Millwall Away

Upcoming PDFC Events: WorldNET 2011 – July 22/23/24 – speak to Martin if your not already down to play !

We also have a website, its at http://www.tractorboys.net/punch-drunk-fc/
The IFA website, our results and current league position can be found at: http://www.internetfootball.org.uk/

PDFC rolled into the neutral territory of Cambridge for a 10am kick off against Kidderminster Harriers in our umptienth consecutive fixture of the season! Pre match banter revolved around the previous weeks game away at Sheffield Utd (more the post match “action” than the actual game itself!) Graham and Martin were questioned endlessly, but proved to be tighter than a camels ar$e in a sandstorm, and gave nothing away about those mysterious early hours of Sunday morning in Shefield. Not even proper journo Dave, using all his professional techniques, could get any juicy secrets other than that some evidence had been deleted to preserve the amnesia that those present were overcome with – we all know the truth will out in the end (probably via the interigation of Dan Parsons)!!

Anyway, to the game. Traditional late call offs/changes led to PDFC having a squad of 13 to choose from for this match against a Kiddy team who wore matching tracksuits and even had drinks bottles – very organised! A pre match team photo, maybe so they could have a momento to remind themselves of what Martins face looks like with only 2 hours sleep, preceeded kick off. PDFC started with James in goal, the back four lined up with Phil and Adam at full backs and Martins brother, Frazer and Tim in the centre. A strong midfield consisted of Ben on the left, Dave and Martin in the centre and Graham on the right flank. Up front we started with Rob and Sarah, with Jules (who was NOT late this week – well done!) and Simon on the bench.

Early exchanges were equal in a slightly easy paced start to the match. To the credit of Kiddy, they were keen to pass the ball around and try and play short passing football on all areas of the pitch. PDFC gradually came more into the game, with the defence looking tight, the midfield imposing themselves and forwards holding the ball up well. It was PDFC who scored the games first goal, midfield dynamo Martin received their keepers poor clearence midway in the Kidy half and expertly hit a half volley from over 30 yards past a diving keeper to put us 1-0 ! It was not long before it was 2-0, Graham was looking dangerous down the right flank and skinned the Kiddy defense with his Usain Bolt like pace on numerous occassions. One such attack fed the ball across the six yard box where Ben had moved in off the left flank and calmly side footed with his right foot (slowly!) into the bottom of the net. It was nothing more than PDFC deserved as they had contained Kiddy with some ease, whilst creating chances of their own when going forward.

However, the game was to turn on its head with only a few minutes of the half remaining and PDFC coasting it. A defensive reschuffle as Tim went off injured moved Adam to centre back and Simon , then Jules at left back. Not long after, a Kiddy cross fom the right was unfortunately deflected in by an unsighted Adam (yes, another own goal !), who was tangling with the Kiddy forward, and his cheek/nose scored Kiddys first goal. This gave Kiddy some extra impetus, and within a minute they were level. A long Kiddy clearence over the top left their attacker on the left side of the goal, and with a neat bit of skilll he drilled in the equaliser past James who had no chance. From being 2-0 and coasting, Kiddy were level within less than 5 minutes with their only 2 efforts of the half on goal. A bemused PDFC were glad to hear the generous 45 minutes from the ref draw to a close so we could re group. From being comfortable, without creating too many chances, at 2-0, PDFC lost some concentration to end up all square as the first half ended.

Half time : PDFC 2 – Kidderminster Harriers 2

The second half kicked off with Kiddy quickly building upon the momentum they had gained from their 2 very late goals in the first half. Not long after the half began, the skillful Kiddy forward curled the ball into the top corner from the left of the penalty spot after the PDFC defence failed to hoof the ball away from goal. It was a good finish, though PDFC should have cleared their lines first. Not long after, 3 became 4. A Kiddy break from a long ball led to James pulling off a good save, though unfortuntely the Kiddy forward could tap in the rebound from 6 yards. Kiddy had had 4 shots on goal, and scored 4 goals – efficiency that German carmakers would be proud of!

Punch Drunk were indeed were living up to their name at this point, however there was still about 40 minutes of the game left to get back into the match. PDFC toughened up again and began to pass the ball with increasing confidence and good movement as in the first half. Ben was seeing more of the ball down the left and this led to his second goal of the game as he dribbled in the left edge of the area and drilled a shot across the Kiddy keeper to make it 4-3. PDFC now had the momentum and there was still about half an hour to go. At this point, PDFC were now bossing the midfield through winning numerous tackles and headers – especially by Dave and Martin (who got a big smash on the nose by a Kiddy challenge). This gave PDFC lots of posession, though sometimes a lack of composure/eagerness to get an equaliser with the final ball led to posession being wasted just when the final killer ball was required to the forwards. Through a successon of corners, half and nearly not quite there chances, PDFC continued there domination and this was rewarded through a great goal by Dave. Picking the ball up on the left of the Kiddy penalty area, Dave cut inside and hit a swerving 25 yard shot into the top right of the Kiddy goal. A great shot that the effort and determination of the team deserved to draw the scores level.

PDFC were now confident they could push on for the winner. Phils injured ankle meant PDFC switched to an attacking line up of 3-4-3, with even injured players back on for the rest of the match. The PDFC midfield continued its dominace with Graham and Martin going close on a few occasions with shots that were close, especially a left footed volley by Graham. It was not all one way traffic, Kiddy were looking dangerous on the break and this was shown as the long second half moved into the final minutes. The quick Kiddy forward latched onto a long clearence and beat James in goal to the ball. As he lofted a half volley towards the empty goal, PDFC had Jules to thank, as an outstretched left foot hooked the ball off the line as he faced the goal and he prevented an undeserved winning goal by Kidderminster.

Soon after, the game finished and everyone could draw breath on an entertaining, very fairly contested and good spirited match. The word “fun” was even mentioned!

Full time : PDFC 4 – Kidderminster Harriers 4.

A great piece of defensive acrobatics at the death by Jules mant that PDFC deserved a well fought for draw. The first half was bizaare in that PDFC dominated most of it, but switching off for the last 5 minutes allowed to Kiddy to score a couple of quick goals. The second half was also a game of 2 halfs, Kiddy scoring from a couple of good finishes but then PDFC fought back with some great determination and effort by the whole team to deservingly draw level – and on another day we could have won it as well !

In nets, James actually had a quiet morning – the 4 goals apart – though he did pull off some good saves with his feet to deny the Kiddy forwards when they had some one on one chances. The defence played well also, Phil was solid at right back, putting in some well timed challenges – especially in the first half, before going off injured in the second half. Frazer was excellent at the back, winning his headers with some no nonsense clearences when required as well – hopefully hes not this good this coming Saturday ! Adam (own goal apart) and Simon / Jules were also competent as well. In midfield, Ben grew into the game as the match progressed and was a real threat when allowed to dribble with his dangerous left foot. In the centre, Dave and Martin bossed the midfield as the match progressed, when all headers and linking up well between themselves with some good dribbles forward. A super quick Graham was a threat to Kiddy all afternoon, putting in some dangerous dribbles, crosses and shots where possible. Up front, the rotating front line of Rob, Sarah and Simon held the ball up well and linked with the midfield where they could. On another day, a softer hit final ball, or the rub of the green from a 50-50 challenge would have had led to more clear cut chances on goal and 3 points.

As ever, thanks to Shaun and everyone else for organinsing the team to ensure this game went ahead.

The next game is away at Hull next Saturday, followed by helping Martin celebrate his birthday out afterwards in East Yorkshires finest venues !!

PDFC staring line up verses Kidderminster Harriers:

1. James Deacon
2. Phil T
3. Adam Basham
4. Dave Gooderham
5. Frazer Beecroft
6. Tim Daniels
7. Graham Lockwood
8. Martin Beecroft
9. Rob Atherton
10.Sarah Lockwood
11.Ben Frost
12. Simon Daniels
13. Jules

Goals: Congratulations to Ben on scoring his first goals for PDFC (2), along with well deserved exercet missile/long range efforts by Martin and Dave.

“Stretch Armstrong to clear the ball off the line” award – Jules

“What goes on tour, stays on tour” award – Great defiance by Graham not to give any Sheffield stories away to Hack Dave, or the amused Rob.

“Family Injury” Award – Tim and Simon both hobbling off with dodgy hammy’s, was it genetic or sympathy that they both were injured!?

“OG King” award – Adam, thats 2 OG’s in the last 2 games – classic own goals that Brian Gayle and Phil Whelan (look them up on You
Tube or Wikipedia for the younger readers) would be proud of !

Upcoming PDFC fixtures (at present/maybe/perhaps/possibly/who knows):

20Th November Hull Away
11Th December Preston Away
18Th December Leicester Home
28Th December Doncaster Away
15Th January Millwall Away
22ND January Doncaster or Bury Home
5Th February Sheff Utd Home
12Th February Barnsley Away
2ND April Burnley Away
30Th April Preston Home
8Th May Leicester Away

Upcoming Major PDFC Events:

Hull 2010 – November 19/20

WorldNET 2011 – July 22/23/24

On a bright Saturday morning, PDFC returned to Gainsborough for their 7th consecutive fixture – this time against the Saaf Londoners from Millwall. In a starting XI showing 8 changes from the previous weeks game at Leicester, manager Beecroft was this week given another selection headache though this time it was the luxury of having a squad of 14 to choose a starting 11 from. PDFC numbers were boosted by the midweek recruitment/persistence/nagging of Tim who had worn down 4 mates who were Town fans to come and play.
On a rather unfamiliar looking Gainsborough pitch (cut grass and relatively flat!) PDFC started with a strong line up of James (debut) in goal, with full backs of Adam and Simon (debut), supported by Tim and Danny (debut) at centre backs. Midfield consisted of speedster winger Graham on the right, a solid partnership of Martin and Dave (el capitano) in the centre and Ben (debut) on the left wing. The previously successful forward line at Cambridge,of Rob and last game ace hat trick goalscorer Johnny up front. Sarah, Luke and Jules started on the bench, with Jules being lino for being late (again – though a different excuse was given this time!)

The game kicked off in bright sunshine with PDFC playing with the sun at our backs. Early exchanges were even in a keenly fought contest with both sides confidentally passing the ball out from the back. Millwall were playing there first IFA league game of the season, and looked well organised and strong – especially down the spine of the team.

The opening half hour proved a very even contest between 2 well matched teams, Millwall having slightly more posession but PDFC having by far the better chances.Both teams were building from the back and playing short passes through midfield to the forwards, it must have been a delight to the watch for the home fans (Mrs Gooderham and Daves mate!). Millwall had the games first chance with their speedy forward testing James at his near post and making a sharp save to push it away for a corner. At the other end, PDFC found a weakness in the Millwall defence by utilising Jonny’s Kiwomya-esque pace with some clever through balls though a couple of one on ones were not taken (though credit must go to the Millwall keeper who made 2 good saves).

As the half wore on, both teams continued to show the commitment that they started with, Millwall occasionally emphasising this with some physical play and lately timed tackles. Play began to get stretched, as a relatively high tempo’d game for the IFA league, tested both teams endurance. This lead to some PDFC substitutions with Sarah, Jules and Luke coming on for Simon, ROb and Matin. It was Millwall who took advantage of this with the first goal of the match. A free kick on the edge of the PDFC area hit the wall and rebounded straight to the ‘wall player who used great technique to strike across the ball and sweetly hit a dipping volley from 25 yards into the top left corner of the net despite a great attempt by James to get a hand on it. The goal would have graced the game later on at Potman Road (and was reminisant of Legwinski’s volley away at QPR in a 1-1 draw a few seasons ago).

Millwall understandably took great confidence from this, and minutes later it was 2-0, with the PDFC defence poorly clearing a ball that allowed a Millwall forward to shoot from the edge of the area. The ball cannoned off the bar and hit James on the back ( similar to Richard Wright at Wembley 200 play off final when Hignett scored). This unfortunate deflection conveniently slowed the ball up and presented a Millwall attacker with the easiest of finishes from about 6 yards. In the blink of an eye, through a combo of great skill and luck for Millwall, PDFC now found themselves very harshly 2-0 down. In scenes sometimes witnessed by the faithful at Portman Road, within another couple of minutes 2 became 3. This time another PDFC defensive mistake led to a third clinical Millwall finish, giving James no chance in goal.

PDFC were shell shocked, from being very much in the game at 30 minutes/slightly unlucky not to be leading with the better chances in a tight, even contest, 10 minutes later we were 3-0 down and lacking confidence as previously well placed passes began to be underhit and misplaced, with Millwall looking increasingly solid. In truth, PDFC were glad the half ended(ref’d by a reasonably fair Millwall manager) so we could take stock and re group.

A half time discussion/pep talk pointed towards some individual /team mistakes and some untaken chances – on another day we could have gone in 2-0 up instead of 3-0 down ! Who said footballs a funny old game ?!

Half time : PDFC 0 – Millwall 3

PDFC kicked off a sunny second half knowing that whoever scored the next goal would either have the momentum to either get back into the match, or go on and win it comfortably – unfortunately as things panned out – it was the latter ! Millwall, buoyed by a 3 goal cushion continued to play with confidence and good shape – especially for their first game of the season. PDFC also improved after the break, but could not find that final ball to get in on goal, or get a clear shot away.

It was Millwall who got the killer fourth goal. The pacey Millwall forward broke through the PDFC offside trap afer 2 defenders went for the same ball, and clinically found the corner of the net from the edge of the area to put his team further infront. This healthy goal cushion, allowed Millwall to experiment with the introduction of a 14 year old left winger who turned out to show ability well above his age. It was not however all one sided, PDFC continued to huff and puff, with the confidence of the first half hour slowly returning. Jonny continued his individual duel with the exceptional Millwall keeper, who produced another one on one save as well as a fine save at his near post. Dave also went close with a free kick from the edge of the box after some fine counter attacking football by a combination including Jonny and Martin.

Millwall (well Adam actually) drove a final nail into the PDFC halloween coffin with a 5th goal at the end of the match. Another quick Millwall break by their pacey forward lead to the ball being driven across the 6 yard area, where Adam facing his own goal could only divert the ball into the net past James.

Full time: PDFC 0 – Millwall 5

In the end, a game of what have might have been. Hypothetically, if we were stil playing when you read this it is debatable if we would have scored due to the excellent form and skills of the Millwall keeper (who was also making his debut for them). PDFC paid the price for not taking some early chances, in combination with some clinical finishing and defensive errors to finsh on a very harsh 5-0 scoreline that was never as one sided as the score suggested – especially in the first half !

A good shift put in by the PDFC players, especially the players making their debuts. James made some agile saves in goal. For the first half hour the defence looked good, Danny and Tim attacked the ball well – making use of there height and passing the ball out of the centre where possible. Adam and Simon put in some well timed tackles and also got forward where possible. In midfield, Graham was dangerous attacking the Millwall defence with his pace and crossing. Martin and Dave battled well in the centre against some strong competition and Ben showed some promising dribbling and good touches going forward down the left side. Up front, Rob held the ball up well and Jonny got through on a few occassions only to be thwated by the outstanding Millwall keeper. Coming off the bench, Jules got well stuck in when he came on, with Sarah and Luke getting into some promosing positions up front when the chance came along.

As ever, thanks to Shaun and everyone else for ensuring this game went ahead.

The next game was away at Shefield the following Saturday, followed by (as a warm up for Hull) turbo drinking and bad dancing out in Sheff city centre afterwards. Think we lost this won 8-0 !

PDFC staring line up verses Millwall:
1. James Deacon
2. Adam Basham
3. Simon Daniels
4. Dave Gooderham
5. Danny Frost
6. Tim Daniels
7. Graham Lockwood
8. Martin Beecroft
9. Rob Atherton
10.Jonny Cracknell
11.Ben Frost
12. Sarah Lockwood
13. Jules
14. Luke Frost

Goals: As the Millwall keeper had a great game, we scored nil/zilch this week.

Least sleep befoe the match award – Martin (a massive 2 hours, though this doubled last weeks amount)
Best sound effects during the match award – Danny (managed to win every header accompined by some great noises at the same time)

Managers Man of the Match – ?

Funniest moment of the game – Martin getting nutmegged by the 14 year old (who also called it at the same time – no wonder hes having trials at Brentford this week (thats the 14 year old, not Martin – though you may have guessed that!)).

Upcoming PDFC fixtures (at present):
6Th November Sheffield Utd Away lost 8-0
13Th November Homish (Cambridge) kick off 10am – Kidderminster Harriers – TOMORROW !
20Th November Hull Away
11Th December Preston Away
18Th December Leicester Home
28Th December Doncaster Away
15Th January Millwall Away
22ND January Doncaster or Bury Home
5Th February Sheff Utd Home
12Th February Barnsley Away
2ND April Burnley Away
30Th April Preston Home
8Th May Leicester Away

Upcoming Major PDFC Events:
Hull 2010 – November 19/20
WorldNET 2011 – July 22/23/24

Thanks,

Adam

PDFC travelled to the East Midlands to play a sixth consecutive league fixture (a record for us) in the IFA league. Spirits were high after last week’s 6-3 home victory over Cambridge which placed PDFC 16th in the league (out of 60+ teams). Optimism was slightly dampened upon getting out the car in deepest South Leicester and finding it was a bit chilly, and a frustrated Shaun informing us that due to some very late call offs on Friday, that our squad had been reduced to only nine players.
Earlier in the week discussions had resulted in PDFC playing in a change kit of red. In an ability to try and confuse the opposition (or ourselves), this included a mix of retro Town kits (which dominated pre match changing room chat), plus a leftfield addition from Helsingborgs and some spares from Middlesbrough (thanks Craig!).

The pre match warm up mostly consisted of the trek past a few grassy pitches and clamber through some waste ground to a sloping pitch out the back of the sports ground. Shaun had managed to beg/steel/borrow two players from Leicester to being us up to 11 players. Late call offs and injuries meant the PDFC formation had changed numerous times in Martins head – probably because he wasn’t still drunk this week!(and akin to the first team playing at Forest later on) square pegs did indeed have to play in round holes. A lack of volunteers, and previous shocking mistakes in goal from certain players, meant a keen Chris lined up in goal followed by a previously untried back four of Craig, Tim, Adam and Leeks finest son, Shaun. The midfield consisted of Kyle (on loan), Martin, Chris’ mate Dave and Simon with a pacey line up top of Tap and Munkey – let’s go !

PDFC, playing with the slope and wind, started surprisingly brightly against a lot younger and fitter looking Leicester team.
The first few minutes were even with both teams sparring with each other and making some decent passes/mistakes. Leicester had the first shot on goal after about 10 minutes, which turned out to be the first goal as well. Leicester broke and their forward, with no support, chanced his arm and curled one in from the left edge of the area – a great finish and piece of individual skill.

The first half continued pretty evenly with PDFC dragging themselves back into the game as we grew more confident with the new players and position changes. Munkey was proving to be a useful player and he flashed our first chance across goal which was soon followed by some dangerous corners from Martin – though we were unlucky not to get on the end of these. Leicester had their moments as well, normally through breaking quickly – or the ‘long throw set piece’ routine that’s crept back into the game in the last few seasons. The best PDFC chance of the half was self-created by Martin, who worked his magic on the right by-line of the Leicester area and rolled a defender to cheekily try and beat the keeper at the near post, only to find the side netting. Just before half time Leicester scored their second goal, Craig’s tackle unluckily rebounded straight into the Leicester forwards path and he scored his second goal with a good first touch and composed finish past a diving Chris.

As the Leicester ref blew for halftime oranges, the score line didn’t really reflect the game so far. Leicester scored a great first goal and slightly lucky second, but PDFC were well in the game having battled hard and created a couple of decent half chances of our own. On another day, we would have gone in 1-1. Either way, as the second half kicked off both sides knew the next goal was crucial for both teams.

Half time: Leicester fans 2 – PDFC 0

PDFC kicked off the second half, glad of the 15 minute rest, with the only change being Martin and Chris swapping positions in goal and midfield. It wasn’t long before Leicester began to dominate possession and create a few chances due to that well trusted combination of good skill, movement, playing with the wind and slope, plus more crucially better fitness and about four subs at their disposal !

Martin made his first telling contribution in goal with a great save tipping the ball onto the post when left one on one with the Leicester forward. PDFC were struggling to get out of their half and the second half progressed to more of a training session of the PDFC defence verses the Leicester attack. As previously mentioned, Leicester were a lively team going forward, plenty of energy and some good movement created numerous chances for them. This lead to four second half goals being scored at
various stages with some good passing moves, plus clinical finishing. PDFC weren’t helped by a bad knee injury to Simon, who had to go off, and played most of the remaining game with 10 men. PDFC kept going right to the end and this commitment, and effort, was rewarded with a deserved goal in the final minutes. Adam played a good pass down the right wing to Tap, who beat
his man and sent over a pin point cross (that strikers dream of) to the back post where Munkey couldn’t miss and he smashed it in from 2 yards.

After a keenly fought 90 minutes, the ref blew up and a tired PDFC could have a breather.

Full time: Leicester fans 6 – PDFC 1

A great effort by those playing for PDFC, plus thanks go to the 2 Leicester players who helped us make it an a 11 a side match. The game was played with a typical IFA spirit (though Simon would argue not). Despite a mostly even first half, the best team in the second half deserved to win by a few goals.

PDFC players could be proud of their own individual efforts and performances with some new players and in some new positions.
Chris was brave in goal in the first half, and full of commitment and effort in midfield in the second. Craig was very composed at right back, including whipping in some excellent crosses that we narrowly missed attacking / were too good for us.
Tim (mirroring Richard Naylor’s career by being recently converted from a centre forward to centre back) played his second 90 minutes ever in defence and attacked the high ball well, refusing to ever lash it upfield and always trying to play it out of the back. Adam put in some nicely timed last ditch tackles, and Shaun was solid, making some very well timed tackles and coped well with no left midfielder (due to Simons injury) to protect him.

In midfield, Simon showed a great first touch and some good ball control to deceive the opposition despite being left frustrated by the Leicester players who fouled him on numerous occasions – We all hope his knee recovers soon.
Martin and Chris’ mate Dave (who also got injured) battled well, especially in the first half, with some good dribbles forward, on another day (with a bit of luck) either could have had a decent chance on goal. Up front, Tap received little decent service but used his pace to great effect in the excellent cross for our goal.

Managers comment “It was never going to be easy lining up without a recognised goalkeeper, and with the late disruption to the squad, but the effort applied was excellent. A special tribute should be paid to Simon Field, who suffered suspected cruciate damage. Let’s hope this isn’t the final time Simon takes to the field in a PDFC jersey. A field in the middle of Leicestershire is no place, for one of the original founder members of PDFC to make their bow.”

As ever, thanks to Shaun for organising this game via numerous emails, call, texts, and despite late call offs.
Roll on next Saturday at Gainsborough in our next fixture against Millwall at home. As some midweek training, those who have time should watch the final half hour of “Green Street” to pick up some extra tips, techniques and skills on how The ‘Wall play – if needed (joke)!

PDFC line up:
1. Chris Marsh (swapped with Martin at half time)
2. Craig Russell
3. Shaun Merrick
4. Dave (Chris’ Mate)
5. Adam Basham
6. Tim Daniels
7. Kyle (on loan from Leicester)
8. Martin Beecroft
9. Tap
10. Munkey (on loan from Leicester)
11. Simon Field

Goals: The only one this week was scored by temporary, 90 minute loan signing from Leicester, Munkey.

Superfan / lino / pre game injury victim – Rico

Furthest travelled/got up earliest award – Chris Marsh (about 5am from Eastbourne)

Managers Man of the Match – Shaun Merrick

Funniest moment of the game – In the first half a Leicester player slipped over in the mud onto the floor and accidentally sweetly heading the ball straight to his teammate (guess you had to be there!)

Match report by Roy O’Key – No

The 2010-11 fixtures have just been announced. Following the League Cup draw away at Exeter, we’ve been handed an opening fixture of Middlesborough away the previous Saturday. The first home match will be against newly relegated Burnley on 14th August.

Other important fixtures are the local derby against that lot up the road. The away game is on Saturday 27th November with the home fixture scheduled for 23rd April (St Georges Day). We end the season with an away game at Leicester.

The full fixture list can be found on the club website>>

Obviously, the dates are liable to be changed for TV coverage.

OK, time for my final Bulletin of this season and the final one under my Chairmanship.

Firstly, a warm welcome two new members, Tim Reeve from Otley and Matthew Crawley from Leeds.  I hope you both will be able to meet up with other branch members during the 2010 – 2011 season; you will certainly have the opportunity as e-mails will be sent out on a regularly basis from the time the pre-season matches are announced.

I hope all those who attended the AGM and evening social in Newcastle enjoyed the events.  It was unfortunate that Kevin Beattie was unable to make it due to illness and he has sent his apologies for being unable to attend.  I am sure he will keep next season’s AGM date in mind and try to make that.  On behalf of the Branch I have sent Kevin our best wishes and reinforced our open invitation to him as our Honorary President to attend future events with the NoE.

Martin will issue minutes for the AGM as soon as he can.  Over 45 attended the lunchtime buffet and 26 the evening social – thanks to all of you who could make it, who sent apologies and of course every member; you all contributed to the event in some way.

The raffle collection raised £210, a tidy sum in these economic uncertain times.  Thanks to everyone who contributed to that.  The football signed by the 2009 – 2010 ITFC squad was won by Ian Morgan while John Tyrell won the framed, signed set of collectors cards.  In the evening we held two quiz’s and David Whitworth one the first and walked away with a print signed by Roger Osborne of him scoring the winning goal in the FA Cup Final while Tim Edwards one the second quiz and had as a prize a North of England T-shirt signed by Ivan Campo.  We also had a draw for out junior members and the prizes have been sent to the two winners.

Both Colin and myself stepped down from the committee to allow some new blood to get involved.  Pat McAdam was voted onto the committee as Chairman and Clint West comes on board as Social Secretary.  Both are fully committed to the branch and along with Martin, Nick and Steve will ensure the continuing success of our group of exiles.

Colin sent the following message to the AGM that I pass on to you all: ”I wish the president, committee and all members and friends well as I retire from the committee after 7 years of work and pleasure, and I trust I have done my share in helping the Branch into the strong and active position it now is. I hope that other members will now step up and volunteer to replace those of us leaving the committee, and that the Club continues to flourish in the future. Best wishes, Colin”.

On my part I would like to thank everyone involved with the NoE for their help and assistance in continuing the development of the branch and for making my years as a branch member, Secretary and Chairman so enjoyable.  I will continue to be a member of the branch and will be attending the majority of home and away games next season, so we will no doubt be bumping into one another again.

Enjoy the summer and let’s hope for a more fruitful season for ITFC from August,

David

ITFC North of England website: http://www.itfcnorth.co.uk/