20/3/10

Saturday U11's Division 2

Keyworth United White 2 Hucknall Sports White 5

Hallam Hat-Trick secures Championship for Sports

Miserable weather and an undulating pitch could not dampen Whites desire to take a grip of this game after they made the long journey to Keyworth in search of a victory that would secure the League Championship title.

Fielding a full strength team Hucknall started at a blistering pace with wingers Ryan Towle and Jacob Barlow threatening to unlock the Keyworth backline every time that had the ball. A left wing cross from Barlow picked out Oliver Bowley who controlled the ball well and sent Whites on their way by coolly slotting the ball into the bottom corner. Strike partner James Hallam quickly followed this up with a well taken goal of his own and Hucknall looked to be coasting to victory.

Joe Newton, Ellis Evans and Jarrod Davies gave a demonstration of intelligent midfield play, defending well at times and making 'killer' passes at others, to drive the team forward. Winger Towle, in particular, providing some wonderful right wing crosses that the Hucknall forwards narrowly failed to convert.

Keyworth were found a way back into the game with a well taken goal and then followed this with another just before half time to take the game into the break with the scores level.

Half time: Keyworth United Whites 2 Hucknall Sports White 2

A great finish to the first half meant that United started the second with confidence running high and it was Keyworth who looked dangerous in the first ten minutes. Hucknall's defence just about held on with Mitch Davies in particular typifying their 'never say die' attitude and Keeper Kal Orton put in a solid performance to mop up any balls that eluded Whites defence.

Second half Whites substitute Dante Diriso looked dangerous on the right wing and Barlow continued to play well out wide on the left. Good play from Sports midfield released Hallam to score his second of the game and he then turned provider for Jacob Barlow to make the score 4-2 to Hucknall.

Finally, the boys could relax and enjoy the game and this allowed them to play some great football in the final quarter of the game creating chance after chance. Substitutes William Brown, Kieran Wilson and Tyler Johnstone entered the game and once again showed the strength in depth that Whites posses this season by maintaining the high performance levels that the team were now playing. Super-Striker Hallam scored the goal of the game for his hat-trick and 27th goal of the season, smashed another against the cross-bar and still had time to setup Johnstone for a chance that he was unlucky not to convert in the closing minutes.

As the final whistle blew Hucknall players celebrated victory in style with their supporters for their first League Title.

Final score: Keyworth United Whites 2 Hucknall Sports White 5

Scoring a hat-trick and being involved in everything good in the attacking half of the field would normally secure a Man of the Match Award for James Hallam, but it was Defender Mitch Davies who won it for his brilliant defending.

If there is a boy who can head a ball better than Mitch then he must be playing in the Premiership. An inspiring performance from him that frustrated Keyworth attackers time and again. Unlucky James, but well done Mitch.

This has been four years of hard work, the early seasons saw the boys losing more games than they won but all credit to each and every one of them for having the desire to improve and belief in themselves. They have worked so hard over this time to become a football team that they can be proud of. This is the first trophy that the team have ever won and the boys could not have deserved it more.

Coaches and Manager would like to go on record to say how much they have enjoyed working with the boys, its been a pleasure and privilege.

Four Goal Towle drives Sports on to Victory

Four Goal Towle drives Sports on to Victory

Newstead Recreational Ground was bathed in spring sunshine for the final home game of the season for Hucknall Sports against Clifton All Whites. Earlier in the season Clifton had held Sports to a 3-3 draw to become the only team to take points from Hucknall so far.

Missing Kal Orton to illness and Kieran Wilson to Kick-Boxing exams meant it was a reshaped Hucknall who took to the pitch. William Brown, one of the heroes of the East Valley game, played in goal and Ryan Towle partnered Jarrod Davies in midfield. After winning the toss Sports elected to play with the wind at their backs but Clifton's high-line of defence caught out Hucknall's front line time and again. The offside flag was correctly raised countless times and Sports were struggling to find a way to break through. Midway in the half James Hallam broke free and chased down a long ball to cross from the goal-line for Ryan Towle to finish with aplomb. Strike duo of Hallam and Oliver Bowley had their chances to extend the lead along with Dante Dirsio and Harry Saxton but the second goal just would not come and at half-time Hucknall lead by a solitary goal.

Half time: Hucknall Sports White 1 Clifton All Whites 0

Clifton's tactics of shoot on site were clear from the second half kick-off. However, fantastic midfield play from Joe Newton and Jarrod Davies meant that Clifton had no time on the ball and Sports keeper Brown was a spectator for most of the half.
Up front Josh Hart showed great skill to take on the combative Clifton back-line and was really unlucky to see his shot just drift wide after a great run. Hallam also went close but it was Towle who found the net to score his second of the game and this was quickly followed by a neat volley from Ellis Evans. Clifton were not happy at all and the referee had to work overtime to keep a 'lid' on the game as it looked likely to explode at any time.
Whites backline of Mitch Davies, Harry Saxton and Dylan Smith marshalled the Clifton attackers well and on the rare occasion that Al Whites looked like threatening Sports defensive unit snuffed out any sign of a chance.
As the second half passed the midway mark, leading by example, Ryan Towle showed that thankfully good football will prevail and produced a 'master-class' of right-wing play that resulted in him scoring two more goals and closing the game out for a fabulous victory to Sports that see's them complete their home league fixtures with a 100% win record. Clifton did score a consolation goal late on after a rare defensive mix-up from Hucknall but the referee blew his whistle to complete the game soon after.

Final score: Hucknall Sports White 5 Clifton All Whites 1

The first half was certainly a unique test for Hucknall and valuable lessons will have been learnt. In the second half Sports controlled the game with some measured and all-round good play.
This weeks Man of the Match award went to Ryan Towle, not just for his four goals, but for showing that footballing skill is the main ingredient for winning a game - well done Ryan, that's 17 goals for the season, not bad for a defender!

Hucknall Sports White 3 West Bridgford Harriers 1

27/2/10
Saturday U11's Division 2
Hucknall Sports White 3 West Bridgford Harriers 1

'Super Kal' keeps Hucknall on track for Title

A waterlogged pitch in West Bridgford meant that this game was switch to Newstead Recreational Ground and Hucknall looked forward to meeting a West Bridgford side noted for their clever style of football.

Harriers started the game like a rocket and took the lead from their first attack when a well worked move saw them cut open the Sports backline. Whites were stunned but confident that they could get back into this game with so much time remaining on the clock and sure enough a sustained spell of pressure saw Jacob Barlow level the scores and keep his own rich vein of form going with his 13th goal of the season. Oliver Bowley then played in James Hallam for him to smash Hucknall into the lead and soon after Ryan Towle converted his own free-kick, scoring high into the top corner, to have take Hucknall into the break leading by 3-1.

Half time: Hucknall Sports White 3 West Bridgford Harriers 1

Kieran Wilson entered the match as a second half substitute and slotted into midfield along the impressive Jarrod Davies to try to starve Harriers of the ball. But Bridgford showed why they are considered on of the best footballing sides in the League and had the confidence to play the ball 'backwards to go forwards'. Whites defence was working overtime and time and again defenders Joe Newton, Harry Saxton and the outstanding Dylan Smith shut out Harriers with last ditch tackling. Harriers continued to press and broke free from the Hucknall defenders only to find themselves confronted by Whites Keeper 'Super' Kal Orton who showed tremendous bravery to dive at the feet of the Bridgford attackers a least three times to stop them from scoring. West Bridgford were awarded a penalty and sensed a way back into the game only for Orton to foil them with a 'cat-like' save that saw him push the ball onto the cross-bar and have the speed of thought to pounce on the lose ball - truly breath-taking.
Dylan Smith defended wonderfully well when he was left as the last man and tackled not once, but three times in quick succession to foil the tricky Harriers winger and then Orton totally demoralised Harriers when he saved bravely again when one-on-one with the Bridgford attacker for one last time. As the clock ticked down, Hucknall saw out the game in the attacking half of the pitch and the referees whistle blew for a hard fought win much to the relief of the fans and coaches.

Final score: Hucknall Sports Whites 3 West Bridgford Harriers 1

This was a wonderful football match for the neutral (as they say on Match of the Day) and both teams deserve great credit for playing some outstanding football on a muddy pitch that Division One teams would be proud of.
Dylan (The Silent Assassin) Smith, Jarrod (Patrick Vieira) Davies and James (Didier Drogba) Hallam worked their socks off today but an outstanding performance from Hucknall Keeper Kal Orton won him a long over due Man of the Match away - fantastic Kal, well done.

Hucknall Sports Whites 4 Keyworth United Whites 0

13/2/10
Saturday U11's Division 2
Hucknall Sports Whites 4 Keyworth United Whites 0

Another well fought team performance from Sports

Sports match was played on a cold Saturday afternoon against Keyworth United Whites. Hucknall were determined to improve on the previous week’s game against Cotgrave and kicked downhill with the wind in the first half.
Hucknall didn’t start the game particularly well, with some scrappy passing, but as the match progressed they finally got their game of flowing, attractive, football working.
Good midfield play saw Sports probing the Keyworth back-line but with the away team playing five-across-the-middle it was very congested and space was at a minimum.
Harry Saxton, in his solid defensive role, won a loose ball at the back and took on his man (Beckenbauer-style) to slot a side-rule pass through to James Hallam who ran in on goal and dispatched the ball into the far corner. Jacob Barlow and Kieran Wilson were dangerous on the wings when Sports got the ball out wide and did well in getting round the back of the Keyworth defence and putting in crosses.
The visitors rallied and searched for an equalizer but were having to be content with long range shots which Kal Orton (The cat) made look easy to deal with. Sports became more confident and started taking control of the game, with Jarrod Davies, William Brown and Ryan Towle winning most of the midfield battles. A good passing move saw Hallam sprint down the left to leave is marker and play a ball across the box for an incoming Towle to slot home past the stranded keeper.
Half time: Hucknall Sports 2 – Keyworth United 0
In the Second half there were team changes from Hucknall with Dante Diriso and Joe Newton bolstering midfield as Sports were expecting heavy pressure from the away team. But Hucknall’s solid rear-guard of Mitch Davies, Harry Saxton and Dylan Smith stood firm and it was Sports that were searching for a goal.Slick interplay saw Oliver Bowley and Diriso combine to cross for Hallam to flick the ball into the far corner to make the score 3-0. Sports had a taste for yet more goals and a fantastic surge up the left wing from Hallam saw a pin-point cross pick out Towle who wrong footed the keeper to shoot home for a fourth.
Keyworth’s never say die attitude resulted in them being awarded a well deserved penalty only for them to smash the ball against the bar and soon after the final whistled blew with the score 4-0 to Hucknall Sports.
Full time: Hucknall Sports 4 – Keyworth United 0
This was a solid team performance from everyone and a great improvement from the previous week. Sports Coaches still think there is potential for better from the boys and the team need to stay focused for the final run-in to make sure that all their hard work is rewarded.
There were several candidates for Man of the Match with Goalie Kal Orton having another outstanding game.
However, in this match it went to James Hallam for an awesome performance where he held the front line well and had the determination to battle for every ball - brilliant James.
Well done boys, more of the same next week please.

Hucknall Sports 0 Lowdham Colts 2

5/12/09
U11's Saturday FA Shield
Hucknall Sports 0 Lowdham Colts 2

Hucknall Humbled in Cup
Bright winter sunshine illuminated Newstead Recreational Ground for this FA Shield Match between Division 2 leaders Hucknall Sports and Division 1 Lowdham Colts.

Winning the toss Hucknall chose to play with the wind at their backs and started slowly. The crisp passing and movement of the previous week had deserted the team but they still managed to fashion decent chances with James Hallam and Oliver Bowley unlucky not to find the back of the net on a number of occasions. Whites penned Lowdham in their own half for the entire first half apart from once when just before half-time a left sided move saw the Colts winger evade Sports defence to slot coolly home to take the game into the break 1-0 to the visitors and leaving Sports wondering just how they had not managed to take one of the host of chances themselves.

Half time: Hucknall Sports Whites 0 Lowdham Colts 1

Sports took to the field in the second half with last weeks hat-trick hero Ellis Evans playing as Hallam's strike partner but Colts defended manfully and dealt well with any attacking efforts. Lowdham got their second goal of the game after following up a shot that came back off the post during a defensive mix-up by Sports. Dylan Smith had the best effort for Whites when his shot from just outside the area grazed the post. But the final whistle blew all too soon for Hucknall to signal the end of a disappointing match.

Final score: Hucknall Sports Whites 0 Lowdham 2

On a different day Sports might have been out of site after the first 15 mins, but it just was not to be their day today.
Lessons will be learnt from this game and Hucknall will back to league action next week.
Good luck to Lowdham in the next round of the Shield.

Jarrod Davies was the winner of today's Man of the Match Award for his combative display in midfield (and defence) as well as making some of the best passes of the game - well done Jarrod.

Lowdham Colts 1 Hucknall Sports Whites 5

7/11/09
Saturday U11's
Trophy

Lowdham Colts 1 Hucknall Sports Whites 5

Lacklustre Whites Win Trophy Match
Hucknall Sports Whites travelled the short distance to Caythorpe to take on Lowdham Colts in the second round of the Saturday Trophy competition on the back of an unbeaten start to the season with confidence running high.

But it was Lowdham who started the better of the two sides and Whites defence could only watch as a Colts breakaway saw the opposition crash a clear shot on goal against the woodwork. This should have provided the warning for Whites to move up a gear but a succession of poor control in midfield and neat passing from Lowdham meant that the Sports defence was working overtime to keep the score sheet clean. Thankfully, a wonderful pass from Jarrod Davies put James Hallam through on goal and he calmly slotted the ball into the net to put Whites into the lead.
All credit to Colts though as they refused to crumble and they got the goal that their play deserved with when a fantastic run from defence to attack saw Santos level the scores. Hucknall were clearly rattled at not having things their own way and Colts threatened once more but Whites Keeper Kal Orton showed great composure to side-step the attacker and make a simple pass to his defenders. Late in the Hucknall were awarded a penalty when Josh Hart was tripped in the box and but Colts keeper made a great save from Hallam to take the match into half-time with the scores level.

Half time: Lowdham Colts 1 Hucknall Sports Whites 1


Whites rang the changes at half-time with all four substitutes being introduced in an attempt to get back to the football of recent weeks. Half-time tactics where executed from the start by Hucknall and great wing play from both Dante Diriso and Jacob Barlow started to create gaps in the Colts back line. Good footwork from Oliver Bowley saw the ball crossed into the 'danger' area and Jarrod Davies flicked the ball home with the outside of his foot. Finally, the Colts resistance was broken and as fitness started to play a major part in the game Hucknall exerted their authority and closed out the game with further goals from Mitch Davies, Jacob Barlow and Ryan Towle.

Final score: Lowdham Colts 1 Hucknall Sports Whites 5

This game will hopefully serve as a lesson to Sports that you must respect your opposition at all times. It is not good enough simply to turn-up at a game expecting to have shooting practice. Players have to continue to work hard to create chances for their team mates and stick to the tactics that have seen them make a great start to the season.


Amongst many good second half performances there are four in particular that are worthy of note: Jarrod Davies and Mitch Davies won the midfield battle and Kieran Wilson and Dylan Smith stood strong in defence.
However, the winner of the Man of the Match Award was Harry Saxton. His calm play from centre-back saw him bringing the ball forward and making wonderful passes that were reminiscent of Franz Beckenbauer at his best. The entire crowd watched in awe as his 25-yard strike smashed the cross-bar to deny him his first goal for the club.
Well done Harry - it was a pleasure to watch such a mature performance.

West Bridgford Wallabies 2 Hucknall Sports White 8

20/2/10
Saturday U11's Division 2
West Bridgford Wallabies 2 Hucknall Sports White 8

Whites Goal Feast

Early morning frost was burnt off by the winter sun just in time to for the referee to give this game between West Bridgford Wallabies and Hucknall Sports the go-ahead. Sports had got the better of the first meeting between the two teams earlier this season, but recent performances meant that Hucknall could take nothing for granted and had to be on their toes from the first whistle.

West Bridgford started the game well and their charge forward from the kick-off nearly caught Sports back-line napping. However, a clearance from Hucknall found its way, via midfield, through to Jacob Barlow who made no mistake when blasting the ball into the net to take an early lead. Wallabies heads did not drop though and soon they had brought the scores level with a well taken goal of their own. A throw-in from Sports midfielder William Brown was headed on to Jarrod Davies who found striker James Hallam in space in the penalty area to force the ball into the net for the second Sports goal. Then good play by Kieran Wilson found Oliver Bowley out wide and his cross from the goal-line found its way to Barlow who battled well to slot in his second. Sports were not done just yet and Hallam scored his second just before half-time to make the score to 4-1

Half time: West Bridgford Wallabies 1 Hucknall Sports White 4

The combination of Dante Dirsio and Ryan Towle were introduced for the second half and almost immediately paid off when the two combined to release Diriso for a wonderful right wing run and cross that Wallabies managed to scramble clear. Whites were sensing more goals and Barlow got his hat-trick after Bowley found him in space in the penalty area once again. Then Bowley, having had a goal disallowed for off-side earlier in the match, got in on the scoring when finding the net from close range after a great cross from Diriso once again. Bowley and Hallam could have added to their goal tallies when clear on goal but the Bridgford goalie saved well on both occasions. Wallabies continued to play football and credit to them for putting Whites defence under pressure and scoring a second goal from a long range shot. But Hucknall Striker Hallam had the final word when his shot was deflected into his own goal by Wallabies centre-back and then just to make sure of his own hat-trick Hallam finished well for Sports eighth goal of the game in the closing minutes.

Final score: West Bridgford Wallabies 2 Hucknall Sports White 8

This was a much improved performance by Hucknall not only for the goals but also for the manner in which they played. All the boys can consider this a job well-done, in particular the wingers who made the best of a boggy pitch.

James Hallam, Oliver Bowley, Jarrod Davies, Kieran Wilson and a great second half performance from Dante Diriso all figured in the choice of Man of the Match for this game.
However, for the second time in three weeks, wonderful left-wing play and a great hat-trick saw the award going to Jacob Barlow - brilliant Jacob, well done.

Hucknall Sports White 2 Cotgrave Colts 1

6/2/10
Saturday U11's Division 2
Hucknall Sports White 2 Cotgrave Colts 1

Battling Win for Whites
Mild weather greeted both sides as they arrived in Newstead for this Division 2 match between Hucknall Sports and Cotgrave Colts. Earlier in the season Sports had romped to an 8-0 victory over Colts but after their fantastic win over second placed Radcliffe it was a totally different Cotgrave side this weekend.

Whites started steadily, but for the second week running they found it difficult to get their silky passing game going on a heavy pitch. Hucknall striker James Hallam had the best of the early chances but Colts keeper stood firm and kept his team in the game early on with a string of fine saves. Sports were awarded a penalty when a clumsy tackle by the Cotgrave central defender felled Hallam. Up stepped Jacob Barlow, seemingly oblivious to the pressure of the moment, to took the ball low into the bottom corner. Hucknall pressed for a second but Colts defended well and took the match into the break with the score 1-0 to Hucknall.

Half time: Hucknall Sports Whites 1 Cotgrave Colts 0

Injuries to James Hallam and the early withdrawal of Ellis Evans and Oliver Bowley meant that a reshaped Hucknall took to the pitch in the second half with William Brown and Tyler Johnstone forming a new strike partnership. A thundering run and cross from Kieran Wilson presented a gilt-edged chance to Sports but they just could not force the ball into the net. Cotgrave began to find space in midfield and started to pressure Sports defensive line. The scores were levelled when Colts intercepted a clearance and scored a neatly taken goal.
The game really hotting up now and this was a real test for Hucknall, probably the toughest game the team had played in all season. Sports keeper Kal Orton produced two great saves, one with his face to stop Colts from going into the lead. Then thankfully for Whites a strong run from Jarrod Davies saw the ball find its way to Jacob Barlow who slotted into the net for his second of the game. Still Cotgrave refused to admit defeat. A poor tackled on Joe Newton forced yet more changes for the last minutes of the game with James Hallam playing at right-back but as Hucknall were about to bundle the ball into the net for their third the final whistle blew.
Cotgrave fans celebrated a fantastic battling performance by their boys and Sports looked mightily relieved to secure victory.

Final score: Hucknall Sports Whites 2 Gotgrave Colts 1

Hucknall Management rated Sports ten-out-of-ten for effort, but only three-out-of-ten for performance. However, to win games when not playing well keeps the points adding up at the top of the league.
Man of the Match was a competition between Goalkeeper Kal Orton and two-goal Winger Jacob Barlow with the final decision going to Barlow who remained cool under pressure for both his precious goals - well done Jacob (and Kal).

Dunkirk Colts 1 Hucknall Sports White 3

30/01/10
Saturday U11's Division 2
Dunkirk Colts 1 Hucknall Sports White 3

Sports happy to be back
As of Friday evening this match did not have a pitch to play on, but thanks to Sports Match Controller Derek Day the game was able to be reversed from an away fixture at Clifton Bridge to Wigwam Lane, local parent Greg Davies was drafted in as a last minute referee and after a morning pitch inspection and 8 weeks after they last played, Hucknall Sports Whites finally got back league football with a match against Dunkirk Colts.

Whites were slow into their stride and looked extremely rusty whilst a bumpy pitch made controlling the ball difficult. Sports confidence ebbed away as the mistakes continued and Dunkirk looked to take advantage but thankfully Kal Orton in the Hucknall goal was alert to any dangers and protected his goal well. Hucknall managed to find a way forward at last and forced a number of corners but a particularly heavy ball made it difficult to find the penalty spot from the resultant crosses.
Finally, Sports got their act together and a great run and cross from James Hallam set up Jacob Barlow for Sports first goal.

Half time: Dunkirk 0 Hucknall Sports Whites 1

Substitute Ryan Towle was introduced for the second half and immediately effected Whites performance with some great wing play and crosses. But it took a James Hallam goal, from a Towle cross, for Whites to finally settle and start to play like the top-of-the-table side that they are. Within moments Hallam had made it three for Hucknall with another goal created by clever wing-play. Further substitutions were made with Kieran Wilson, Will Brown, Josh Hart and Tyler Johnstone getting a chance to show what they could do. Hucknall's confidence returned as they finally found their rhythm and spread the ball around with style.
Dunkirk scored a goal that their endeavour deserved when they capitalised on a mis-hit goal kick to score high into the top corner. But the game was all but over and the final whistled blew to signal a winning start to the New Year for Sports.

Final score: Dunkirk 1 Hucknall Sports Whites 3

Man of the Match candidates for this game included James Hallam for a great exhibition of leading the front line, Kal Orton for great goalkeeping and Jarrod Davies for a versatile display that saw him start as a midfielder and end as a centre-back.
However, the eventual winner was Mitch Davies for a wonderful performance in midfield both for driving the team forward and helping in defence - a tireless exhibition of never-say-die football.

Winning 'ugly' when not playing well is the best way to summarise this game, but Sports remain unbeaten in the league and credit to the boys for keeping that run going.

East Valley 2 Hucknall Sports White 8

28/11/09
Saturday U11's Division 2
East Valley 2 Hucknall Sports White 8

Magic Performance from the 'Welsh Wizard'
Perfect playing conditions greeted Hucknall as they arrived at Goosedale Sports Complex to play East Valley for the second week running.
Regular centre-back Harry Saxton was missing for this game so Whites reorganised and played a back line of Joe Newton, Mitch Davies and Dylan Smith.

From the first whistle Whites played with the style and confidence of a team that is unbeaten in the League this season and set about East Valley with a ferocious appetite for goals. Jarrod Davies provided the muscle-in-midfield and won everything that went near him, but as well as winning the ball he also showed fantastic composure to make telling and dangerous passes time and again. Alongside Jarrod, his new midfield partner Ellis Evans refused to be outdone and he too showed just what a dangerous player he can be when given time on the ball. Up front James Hallam sacrificed everything for his team mates showing that he is much more than a goal-machine and he had a hand in many of the goals that Whites scored in the first half.
Evans opened the scoring with a brace of goals followed by a goal each from Jarrod Davies, Ryan Towle and Jacob Barlow to take Hucknall into the break leading 5-0.

Half time: East Valley 0 Hucknall Sports Whites 5

Sports introduced last weeks hero goalkeeper William Brown as a replacement striker and welcomed back Kieran Wilson to the team after an absence of 3 weeks for the second half. Ryan Towle continued his good goal scoring form with his second goal of the game and Evans completed his first hat-trick of the season with a well taken effort from a narrow angle. East Valley's lightening fast forward line scored two well taken goals to show that they had not thrown in the towel, but Hucknall closed out the game with a well deserved goal from super-striker James Hallam.

Final score: East Valley 2 Hucknall Sports Whites 8

Hucknall's Management and Coaches thought last weeks performance was good, but today's was 'out of this world'.
Sports are playing wonderful football at the moment and can't wait for next weeks Cup clash with Division One opponents.
The list of contenders for Man of the Match would include the entire squad after today's performance and Jarrod Davies in particular can once again consider himself unlucky to miss out.
But the worthy winner was the new look 'Welsh Wizard' Ellis Evans, not just for his goals but also for a magnificent show of incisive midfield passing - well done Ellis and keep wearing the headband.

Hucknall Sports Whites 3 East Valley 0

21/1 1/09Saturday U11's Division 2
Hucknall Sports Whites 3 East Valley 0

Towle's Hat Trick wins it for Whites
Having witnessed the terrible weather conditions on Saturday afternoon you would be forgiven for thinking that this might mean a 'kick and run' approach to football but neither Hucknall or East Valley were prepared to play that way and instead put on a real treat for the football connoisseur.

Valley started the game with the wind at their backs and looked dangerous on the break with their new-look speedy forward line. A good spell of pressure by the opposition saw Whites concede a free-kick in a dangerous position but stand-in Keeper William Brown was a match for anything this game and calmly dealt with the long range effort. Hucknall started to spray the ball about neatly and both Dante Diriso and Jacob Barlow started to impose themselves on the game with some terrific wing play.
A slick move involving Oliver Bowley and Diriso created an opening for Ryan Towle to smash the ball home and soon after Towle pounced on a loose ball in the penalty area to double his total and take Hucknall into the break leading.

Half time: Hucknall Sports Whites 2 East Valley 0

Hucknall started the second half with the same line-up and Towle completed his first hat-trick for the team with a well taken goal after good work by Ellis Evans in midfield. Whites defenders still had to be on their toes to not allow East Valley a way back into the game and Keeper Brown pulled off a miraculous safe at the feet of Valley's centre-forward to bring loud applause of appreciation from both home and away fans. On a narrow pitch, Hucknall found space out wide time and again and chances were plentiful in the second half. Towle and Barlow thought they had extended Whites lead only for the referee to rule both efforts out for off-side but in the end it didn't matter as Hucknall closed down the game and celebrated a hard won victory at the final whistle.

Final score: Hucknall Sports Whites 3 East Valley 0

This was probably the best team performance of the season so far for Hucknall. Every boy contributed to the outcome of the game and selecting a Man of the Match was extremely difficult.
Jacob Barlow, Oliver Bowley, Dylan Smith and William Brown can all count themselves unlucky, but Ryan Towle's three goals coupled with some wonderful skills on both touch-lines made him a worthy winner - well done Ryan.

Hucknall Sports Whites 0 Rolls Royce Leisure 1

14/1 1/09Saturday U11's Cup
Hucknall Sports Whites 0 Rolls Royce Leisure 1

Rolls knock Whites out of Cup
Blustery winds and rain battered both teams as they arrived at Newstead Recreational Ground for the Cup match between local rivals Hucknall Sports Whites and Rolls Royce Leisure. Both teams had made a good start to the season and an evenly matched contest was eagerly awaited by both sets of supporters.

Playing with a strong wind at their backs Rolls started brightly and Hucknall Goalie Kal Orton had to be on his toes to force the opposition striker wide when clean through on goal. Hucknall's midfield managed to find a way forward by playing the ball low into the strong head-wind with Dante Diriso showing good skill on the right-wing in particular. But it was Rolls who opened the scoring when seizing on a moment of hesitation in the Sports defensive line to smash a wind assisted shot over the head of Orton in the Hucknall goal. Sports were in no mood to throw in the towel and they forced a succession of corners but where unable to find a way through the well drilled Rolls defence. Whites best chance of the half came when James Hallam broke through and slotted a ball to the far post that Jacob Barlow went agonisingly close to finishing off.

Half time: Hucknall Sports Whites 0 Rolls Royce Leisure 1

After electing not to make any changes at during the half time break Hucknall started the second half with a defence splitting pass from Harry Saxton that Diriso was unlucky not to be able to take advantage of. Whites pushed forward for the equaliser playing a front line of four at times but the Rolls keeper was an equal match to any threat that was created. A series of long range free-kicks from Whites were dealt with without too much trouble and although Hucknall had most of the possession in the second half they could not create a clear cut chance. Probably their best opportunity was created from a Rylan Towle right wing cross that Hallam was unable to head on target from a difficult position. Playing on the break, Rolls had chances to extend their lead but great defending from the Sports trio of Joe Newton, Harry Saxton and Dylan Smith coupled with more brave keeping from Orton meant they kept a second half clean sheet. In the final moments of the game, and with the light fading fast, Sports players thought they had forced a penalty but the referee waved away all appeals and blew his whistle moments later to complete the game.

Final score: Hucknall Sports Whites 0 Rolls Royce Leisure 1

Considering the conditions both teams deserved huge credit for putting on an excellent exhibition of football. First Division Rolls Royce eventually won the day but Second Division Sports gave everything in search of an Cup upset.
Hucknall's Man of the Match was Dylan Smith for a fantastic performance in defence where he continually snuffed out chances for Rolls striker whilst also having the confidence to bring the ball forward to help link defence with attack - well done Dylan.

In a week that has seen one member of the Hucknall team having an extended stay in hospital football is second in our thoughts and we hope to have the entire squad back together soon.

Cotgrave Colts 0 Hucknall Sports Whites 8

31 /10/09Saturday U11's
Division 2
Cotgrave Colts 0 Hucknall Sports Whites 8

Whites Romp to Victory
This weekend Hucknall Sports Whites travelled South to take on Cotgrave Colts in an U11's Saturday League 2 fixture. Both teams were entering into unfamiliar territory as they had never played each other before, but a great pitch and good weather ensured that everything was in place for a good game of football.

Hucknall came out of the starting blocks at their customary break-neck speed and a first half hat-trick from James Hallam along with a goal from strike-partner Oliver Bowley left Cotgrave stunned. Great inventive play from Ryan Towle and Jarrod Davies provided the intelligent passes for Hucknall's strikers to feed off and Hallam, a player on the top of his goal scoring form, blitz his way to his three goals.


Half time: Cotgrave Colts 0 Hucknall Sports Whites 4

Whites introduced Joshua Hart along side Hallam for the second half and also welcomed back Tyler Johnstone from injury to play in the left wing role. Hucknall midfield general Jarrod Davies was everywhere and broke up Cotgrave play time and again. He showed some wonderful vision also with passes that split the defence over and over again to continue the supply to his frontline and played a major part in three of the second half goals. Firstly Ryan Towle found space to power a low shot passed the Cotgrave keeper and then William Brown got in on the scoring with his first ever goal for the club with a neat header at the far post. Towle smashed another after intercepting a goal kick and Jacob Barlow capped off a fine show from Hucknall by firing into the roof of the net for the final goal of the match.

Final score: Cotgrave Colts 0 Hucknall Sports Whites 8

This was a wonderful performance by the entire team with the Defence of Mitch Davies, Harry Saxton and Dylan Smith once again showing what a class act they are and anything that did get passed them was quickly snuffed out by Keeper Kal Orton. The Midfield were strong and never let the opposition settle into their rhythm and finally our strikers were priceless, truly wonderful to watch.
Jarrod Davies can count himself very unlucky not to win the Man of the Match Award this week, but scoring a hat-trick for the second week running is worthy of any prize and for that the award went to James Hallam - absolutely awesome striking performance.

Pegasus Warriors 2 Hucknall Sports Whites 5

17 /10/09Saturday U11's Cup
Pegasus Warriors 2 Hucknall Sports Whites 5

Hallam Hat-trick sees Whites through
The first round of the YEL U11's Cup saw Hucknall Sports travelling to Stapleford to take on high-flying Division 3 team Pegasus Warriors who had scored 27 goals in their previous two games.

Hucknall threatened directly from the kick-off and Jacob Barlow was unfortunate to see his early shot hit the side netting. However it was Pegasus who grabbed an early lead by bundling home a scrambled goal. This served to ignite Sports into action and great wing play from Ryan Towle created the first goal for Barlow to smash into the back of the net for the equaliser.
Towle, gathering in confidence, began to dominate the right wing position and was unlucky to see his run and shot smash off the cross-bar. Soon after his clever pass inside the Pegasus defenders presented an opportunity for James Hallam who placed the ball into the net to take Whites into the lead.
Hucknall's confidence was there for all to see now and in next to no time a goal from Jarrod Davies and two more from Hallam, for his hat-trick, took Whites into the break leading 5-1.

Half time: Pegasus Warriors 1 Hucknall Sports Whites 5

Whites changed formation for the second half and introduced Dante Diriso and Joe Newton whilst swapping Goalie Kal Orton for William Brown. Sports continued to seek more goals but all credit to the Pegasus team for providing solid resistance in defence and in goal that meant they kept a clean sheet in the second half. A late goal for Pegasus had their fans sensing a late fight back but Sports defensive trio of Mitch Davies, Harry Saxton and Joe Newton held strong to see Whites through to victory at the final whistle.

Final score: Pegasus Warriors 2 Hucknall Sports Whites 5

Hucknall's first half performance was a real treat for those who appreciate football played with wingers and James Hallam's hat-trick will be remember long into the season.
This weeks Man of the Match awards goes to Ryan Towle for his clever wing-play that resulted in him setting up four of the five goals, not to mention him hitting the woodwork a couple of times just for good measure.
Well done Ryan, we look forward to more of the same for the rest of the season.

Hucknall Sports White 5 Dunkirk Colts 0

10 /10/09Saturday U11's Division 2 - League Game
Hucknall Sports White 5 Dunkirk Colts 0


Sweet Revenge for Sports
Warm Autumn sunshine greeted both teams as they arrived at Newstead Recreational Ground for a repeat of last years Trophy Semi-final between Hucknall Sports and Dunkirk Colts that saw Colts make the final with a 2-0 victory.

Dunkirk created the first chance of the match from a looped ball forward that Hucknall Keeper Kal Orton was happy to see just miss his near post.
Sports Striker James Hallam continued his good form, but this week he was creating chances rather than scoring them. His fine run and cross to Oliver Bowley was unlucky to fly over the bar when a goal looked on the cards. Then, battling work from Dante Diriso on the right wing forced the ball to Jarrod Davies who crossed for a headed goal at the far post from Hucknall left-winger Jacob Barlow to score.
Hucknall showed glimpses of the skills that had seen them to the top of the table, but their fluid passing game was interrupted by a clever tactical setup from the Dunkirk Manager.

Half time: Hucknall Sports Whites 1 Dunkirk Colts 0

Hucknall introduced Ryan Towle, Kieran Wilson, Josh Hart and William Brown into the line-up for the second half and with a slight breeze at their backs and quickly went into a two goal lead with a fantastic long range shot from Welsh Wizard Ellis Evans that found the top corner. Very soon after Jarrod Davies scored the third goal in typical combative style. Then a rare Dylan Smith corner found Mitch Davies on the edge of the box who volleyed the ball (Mark Hughes style) into the roof of the net for the goal of the match. More Sports pressure saw Oliver Bowley's well taken corner result in the first goal of the season for team-mate Josh Hart and the game was won.

Final score: Hucknall Sports Whites 5 Dunkirk Colts 0

Hucknall will play better matches this season and maybe not get as good a result, but they are now unbeaten in their first six games and sit clear at the top of Division 2.
This weeks Man of the Match awards goes to Jacob Barlow for a wonderful exhibition of wing-play and a fine headed goal that set Hucknall on the road to victory - well done Jacob.

Hucknall Sports White 3 Radcliffe Olympic 1

03/10/09Saturday U11's Division 2 - League Game
Hucknall Sports White 3 Radcliffe Olympic 1

Whites Run Continues
Blustery winds created difficult playing conditions for Hucknall Sports Whites and Radcliffe Olympic as they arrived at Newstead Recreational Ground for this League 2 clash of unbeaten teams.

Minutes into the match Hucknall strikers James Hallam and Oliver Bowley hassled the Radcliffe defence to create a goal from a deflected shot by Hallam that found its way into the back of the net. Olympic were shocked and Hucknall pushed forward with good work from wingers Dante Diriso and Jacob Barlow looking to create more openings. Olympic, playing with the wind at their backs, pushed for an equaliser but a combination of off-sides and great defending from the Hucknall back three of Mitch Davies, Harry Saxton and Joe Newton limited them to very few clear-cut chances. Whites played clever football into the wind by keeping the ball low to the ground and using their passing skills to move the ball forward.
In a flash the first half had gone and Hucknall went into the break leading by 1-0.

Half time: Hucknall Sports Whites 1 Radcliffe Olympic 0

Whites kicked-off with the wind at their backs, however it was Olympic's who broke through first with a well worked move that levelled the scores at 1-1. But Hucknall refused to let their heads drop and the midfield
combination of Jarrod Davies and Ellis Evans made sure that it was Whites who won the 50-50 challenges to stay on top of the game. Once again it was James Hallam who restored the lead with a goal of pure speed and strength that saw him take on the Olympic defence almost single handed to score from a tight angle. Whites continued to play the ball wide again rather than hoofing the ball forward and retained possession of the ball deep in the Radcliffe half to frustrate the opposition team. On the rare occasion that Olympic did get within striking distance of the Hucknall goal, Whites keeper Kal Orton provide a solid and brave last line of defence.
Five minutes from time Hucknall were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the Radcliffe penalty area and up stepped Dylan Smith, who had been driven straight to the game from the airport that morning, to smash an unstoppable shot into the top corner.

Final score: Hucknall Sports Whites 3 Radcliffe Olympic 1

Once again Hucknall used the entire squad to gain victory in this game and players such as Kieran Wilson and Ryan Towle ensured that energy levels were maintained throughout the entire match.

This was a great team performance, but James Hallam in particular can feel very unlucky not to be awarded the Man of the Match trophy for a great striking performance.
The eventual winner was Mitch Davies for a tireless performance in defence where he won every ball on the ground and in the air - as one of the Olympic supporters said: "an immense performance".

Hucknall Sports White 6 West Bridgford Wallabies 0

26/9/09Saturday U11's Division 2 - League Game
Hucknall Sports White 6 West Bridgford Wallabies 0

Six of the best for Whites

Once again good weather greeted Hucknall Sports in Newstead as they took on newly promoted West Bridgford Wallabies. Hucknall were missing three first team regulars but a great start to the season and a strong squad meant that they took to the field with confidence.

Whites were soon on the attack with wingers Ryan Towle and Dante Diriso finding space behind the Wallabies defence and it wasn't long before Hucknall took the lead through James Hallam with a fine shot. Sports central defender Mitch Davies was commanding in the middle of defence and keeper Kal Orton was given little to do. Then Dante Diriso picked up the ball on the edge of the penalty area to score a wonderful goal high over the goalkeepers head. The move of the game was initiated by Welsh Wizard Ellis Evans who placed a wonderful pass inside the Wallabies left back for Towle to cross from the goal line only to see a wonder-save from the West Bridgford goalkeeper deny Hallam.
William Brown was unlucky to see his extravagant back-heel-flick attempt saved by the Wallabies goalkeeper, but more goals arrived before half time from Jarrod Davies and Ryan Towle to take Sports into the break leading by 4-0.

Half-time: Hucknall Sport 4 West Bridgford 0

Playing with the wind at their backs in the second half Hucknall drove forward looking for more goals and at times left their defence with little or no support, but thankfully the new look back line snuffed out any Wallabies danger.
Second half substitutes Josh Hart and Tyler Johnstone combined well on the left side of the pitch and both can count themselves unlucky not to get on the score sheet. 'Midfield General' Jarrod Davies got his second of the match and not to be out done super-striker James Hallam kept up his goal scoring form to notch his second when smashing in from close range.

Half-time: Hucknall Sport 6 West Bridgford 0

This game was a testament to strength in depth of the Hucknall squad and every player made a telling contribution to the match. The defensive trio of Kieran Wilson, Mitch Davies and Joe Newton played particularly well and as a result West Bridgford hardly had a clear shot on goal. Man of the Match went to Joe Newton for a wonderful footballing performance, commanding in defence and faultless with his passing - well done Joe.

Clifton AW 3 Hucknall Sports 3

19 /9/09Saturday U11's Division 2 - League Game
Clifton AW 3 Hucknall Sports 3

Thrilling comeback for Whites
After taking maximum points from their first two league games Hucknall travelled south of the river to take on Clifton All Whites looking to continue their good form.
Another hot and humid afternoon made conditions very difficult for both teams in their first season of 11-a-side football.

Typically Whites started the game extremely well and could have been out of sight in the first 10 minutes had it not been for some great saves by the Clifton goalie. Hucknall Striker James Hallam once again terrorised the opposition defence, but just could not force a goal, no matter how hard he tried.
Then Clifton won a free kick on the edge of Hucknall's box and took the lead with a well taken goal that Whites Keeper Kal Orton could do nothing about. Hucknall were rattled even further when Clifton pounced on a loose ball from a corner to take a two goal lead. Suddenly the Clifton were all over the pitch and first to the ball time and again, showing Hucknall how to play. Gradually Sports regained their confidence and could have pulled a goal back before half-time through Ryan Towle, but his first time volley was blasted over the bar.

Half-time: Clifton AW 2 Hucknall Sport 0

The second half was an extremely frustrating affair and Whites composure started to be questioned. Finally they got a goal back into the game after a wonderful free-kick from Ryan Towle that Ronaldo would have been proud of. With the believe back in their veins Hucknall surged forward looking for the equaliser but were caught on the break by Clifton and conceded a third goal to trail 3-1 with only 10 minutes remaining.
Time for someone to step up for Whites to inspire the team and get them back into this game. Up stepped Jarrod Davies - refusing to accept defeat he hauled his team back into the game with a great goal, then got carried off the field with a gash to the eye. Only to return just in time to see James Hallam level the scores with a typical lightening run and shot.
In the last moments of the game either team could have won it, Kal Orton kept Hucknall in the game and the Clifton Goalie stood firm under tremendous pressure from Sport. At the death a corner from Oliver Bowley picked out Jarrod Davies once again but his well placed header was saved. The referees whistle blew for full time with the scores level at 3-3 - phew what a game!!!

Full-time score - Clifton AW 3 Hucknall Sports 3

This game could have been so different if it had not been for a wonderful performance from the Clifton keeper. Whites realise now that this season is going to have its up and downs, we might not agree with decisions on the pitch but we HAVE to believe that we are good enough to overcome set backs and concentrate on our football throughout the entire game.
There were good performances from many members of the team, but the clear winner today was Jarrod Davies for his heroic performance in midfield and his 'never say die' attitude.

Moorgreen Colts 0 Hucknall Sports 4

12/9/09Saturday U11's Division 2 - League Game
Moorgreen Colts 0 Hucknall Sports 4

Whites win again
Hucknall made the short trip to Kimberley for their second game of the season to play Moorgreen Colts in a reverse of the first weeks fixture. Strong winds had not made conditions easy the previous week, but this time brilliant sunshine greeted Whites as they arrived at the oppositions ground.

Taking their inspiration from England's mid-week win over Croatia, Whites started at break-neck speed and gave Colts no time to settle on the ball. A ten minute spell of wonderful football from Hucknall resulted in three goals. Oliver Bowley found space on the right wing to put over a great cross for Jacob Barlow to open the scoring for Whites. Then James Hallam used his terrific speed to beat the Colts the defence and smash the ball home with the Keeper only able to watch as the ball flew into the top of the net. Dante Diriso was only a whisker away from scoring after his strong run and shot was saved by the goalies boot.
Colts were defending well but a block tackle saw the ball find its way to Oliver Bowley who slotted home from close range - a great first half for Hucknall.

Half-time score - Moorgreen Colts 0 Hucknall Sports 3

Substitutes Josh Hart, William Brown and Kieran Wilson entered the game in the second half and all made telling contributions to the team with Hart being unlucky to see his strong shot go over the bar during a goal mouth scramble after a great pass from Brown.
The heat was really taking its toll on the players and spaces in the centre of the pitch enabled Whites midfield of Ellis Evans, Jarrod Davies and Joe Newton to play some wonderful passing football. Time and again James Hallam tested the Colts defence and he got his rewards by slotting in his second goal after a lung-busting run saw him leave the defenders for dead.
Credit has to go to Moorgreen for continuing to try to find a way through Hucknall defence, but the Whites back line of Mitch Davies, Harry Saxton, Dylan Smith, Ryan Towle and keeper Kal Orton gave a master-class on defending and restricted Colts to only long range efforts.

Full-time score - Moorgreen Colts 0 Hucknall Sports 4

Hucknall played some outstanding football in this game to leave us all counting the days until next weeks game already.
Once again the Man of the Match award was a very difficult decision and players such as Bowley, Smith and Saxton can count themselves unlucky but the award won by James Hallam for a stunning strikers performance and his two fabulous goals.

Hucknall Sports 3 Moorgreen Colts 1

5/9/09Saturday U11's Division 2 - League Game
Hucknall Sports 3 Moorgreen Colts 1

Whites start season with a victory
Hucknall Sports, proudly wearing their new Nottingham Audi sponsored kit, started their first 11 a-side league game with a home match against Moorgreen Colts, a team will great tradition for playing skilful and attractive football.

Both sides began cautiously and played some measured football whilst getting used to extra space available to them on the full sized Newstead pitch. Hucknall gradually started to impose themselves and openings began to appear in the Colts defence and it was NEWTON who found the back of the net first for Sports with a crisp half-volley from the edge of the box. Bowley created a number of problems for Colts with some great corners, but it was Diriso who's clever foot-work created the second goal for DAVIES to smash into he corner of the net. Hucknall were well on top now and a third goal quickly followed when DAVIES once more slotted the ball neatly into the bottom corner after a well worked move from midfield to attack.

Half-time score - Hucknall Sports 3 Moorgreen 0

Whites rearranged the team line-up for the second half and prepared themselves for a fight-back from Colts who were now playing with a strong wind at their backs.
Early Moorgreen pressure from a corner resulted in a defensive Davies header just being carried over the line by Sports goalie Orton.
This gave the opposition greater confidence and they piled forward to try and force another goal, but great defending by Davies, Saxton (Captain) and Smith snuffed out any clear-cut chances. New Sports goalie Orton blocked bravely on the edge of his box on the one occasion when Colts got in behind Hucknall's defence.
Sports attack were restricted to few chances, but striker Hallam (aka Usain Bolt) can count himself unlucky to see his fantastic surging run result in his shot being cleared off the line by the Colts last defender. Finally the referee blew his whistle for full time and the Hucknall boys celebrated victory a hard earned victory.

Full-time score - Hucknall Sports 3 Moorgreen 1

This was certainly a 'game of two halves', the first being all out attack and the second pretty much all out defence but this only serves to demonstrate what a great squad Hucknall have this season.
The Man of the Match award could have gone to many different members of the team but eventually it was SAXTON who was chosen for his strong defending and leadership - a real Captains performance.