Sunday 13th September 2009

League Cup

Wychall Wanders A 0 Alvechurch Lions 5

Birmingham City 0 Aston Villa 1

The start of the new season, beautiful sunshine, a pitch to die for - does it get any better???? (Yes Gabby 87 minutes 4.42pm).

With almost a full squad to choose from, the Lions welcomed debutants Michael, Ollly, Harry and Luke P into proceedings.

Liam lined up in goal, Olly in defence with Josh, Harry, Biller, Luke Parsons in midfield with Dill up top. Michael, Ben, Max waited in their wings.

Isaac being absent previously would have been a major problem. And whilst we would always prefer to have him, the depth of the squad currently meant we could cope.

We started like a steam train, Dill almost scoring following a flowing move from Kick off.

The first goal followed on 4 minutes. We had worked really hard on corners with our movement, and we were looking really dangerous.

A Luke Parsons corner was met by the back post run of Harry Fluke for a superb volley and a debut goal.

A second soon followed, Harry and Dill combining this time down the left, and the cross expertly slammed into the back of the net by Luke Parsons for another debut goal.

Josh and Olly looked composed, and brought the ball out of defence superbly.

The second half saw the introduction of Max, Ben and Michael. And almost immediately it paid dividend.

Straight from kick off Dill raced onto a low cross from Max to end the game clinically with a low shot.

A fourth soon followed, Ben combining with Luke, who met Dills superb low cross firtst time and finished with aplomb.

Michael remained steadfast in defence, Liam a virtual onlooker.

A fifth followed, Max's cross spilled, and from a tight angle he slammed the ball into the back of the net.

Countless chances followed, but more pleasing was the quality of our possession football, a joy to watch.

Final Score

Wychall Wanderers A 0 Alvechurch Lions 5

Supporters Man of the Match - Harry Fluke.

Managers Man of the Match - Luke Parsons.

An encouraging start, all the new lads fitted in well.

Sunday 20th September 2009

Cadbury Atlhetic 1 Alvechurch Lions 0

In a game Alvechurch dominated for the first half and never looked like losing, a disappointing second performance saw Cadbury steal the points with a speculative effort.

A no show second half, but hard work on the training pitch will get us back on track.

The referee wearing a purple kit was a bit of a give away too...

Supporters Man of the Match - Isaac Hill

Managers Man of the Match - Michael Lea

It was good to have Isaac back, and Michael looked solid second half. Plenty to think about on our second half showing, but we've plenty of time to get there!

September 27th 2009

Alvechurch Lions 3 Kings Heath 2

A beautiful day, a huge pitch, and a return to our former home pitch fortress Hopwood.

Kings Heath had beaten us twice the previous season, and are always a strong team, so we knew today would be real test for the lads.

Warming up before the game, they looked really up for it.

Liam in goal, Olly and Josh in defence, Biller, Harry and Isaac in midfield, Luke Parsons up front. Dill, Ben and Max starting on the bench.

The Kings Heath left winger had caused us real problems the last time we played them, and so we decided to play Isaac on the right to counter this. The plan was clear, rather than let him come onto us, we were going to try and take the game to him and see if we could get in behind him - Isaac having not played midfield for some time was not to disappoint.

Lions started well. Biller was taking the game by the scruff of the neck, he was agressive, disciplined and intelligent in his play.

Isaac was creating havoc down the right, with the Kings Heath winger pushing on, Biller was playing the ball into the space behind him, and Isaac was exploiting the space as a real attacking threat.

Lions took the lead on 9 minutes. Isaac and Luke Parsons combining well down the right, the later crossing low for Harry who arrived late at the back post and hammered the ball into the top corner.

Luke Parson continued to impress, his movement on throw ins was excellent, another example of how well he takes training drills into match situations.

Josh and Olly looked solid at the back, not only great on the deck, but both fantastic aerially.

Kings Heath equalised, perhaps against the run of play, Liam left with no chance following a well driven low shot.

The Lions regained the lead on 20 minutes, Isaac's shot goal bound and heading into the back of the net, before a stray hand averted the danger. Eagle eyed Foley had no hesitation in correctly pointing to the spot. A fired up Biller slammed the ball low, and despite the impressive Heath keeper getting a hand to it, the power carried it into the back of the net.

The Lions were now on fire, Harry and Isaac were unplayable, switching flanks and wreaking havoc.

A third almost followed, a mazy fifty yard run by Harry found Luke Parsons running in, and somehow the keeper kept his effort out from 2 yards.

Max, Dill and Ben were introduced in the second half.

Kings Heath are a good team, and started really well in the second half. I wondered if we might see another Cadbury second half performance. Sometimes when things aren't going well, you need your big hitters to stand up and be counted - during this period i thought our skipper and vice skipper Isaac were awesome.

Deservedly Kings Heath got back in the game, with Isaac now in defence, their left winger seemed to be pushing us further back, and it was no surprise when he grabbed the equaliser.

Still 15 minutes to go, and game on.

Ben was playing intelligently down the left, and making some good decisions in the attacking part of the field. linking up well with Dill. One rocket brushing the outside of the post, another well saved by the keeper following a great move.

Kings Heath tohught they had grabbed a third, Liam producing an unbelievable save with his finger tips, somehow saving the left wingers superb effort.

10 to go, and a chance to try and win the game. Max moved back into defence where he performed well. Isaac moved to the right to try and get back to the same formula of the first half - get in behind the left winger.

Dill held the ball up, played it back to Biller, who once again picked the perfect pass to Isaac marauding down the right, Isaac looked up and slid a cross into Dill's feet who had continued his run, Dill with one touch, turned, swivelled and burried the third - the home supporters errupted, a great goal.

Kings Heath weren't done yet. A superb volley looked to be covered by Liam, before deflecting off a Lions head and changing direction, a certain goal....Liam somehow adjusted his body position and miraculously turned the ball over.

Some strange defensive decision making more akin to the attacking third put the Lions under some pressure - but as a team they rallied and helped each other.

Olly was re-introduced for Harry, and with the energy we had on the pitch, the Lions held on to a hard fought but well deserved victory.

Alvechurch Lions 3 Kings Heath 2

Supporters Man of the Match - Luke Biller Bilingham

Managers Man of the Match - Liam O'Toole

A fantastic performance from the lads, bouncing back superbly from last weeks result.

The options we have in this team are interesting. It is a good position to be in when the squad is stronger enough to not know which seven you will start with from week to another. 

Luke B - I could hear you at last - Hallelujah!! Well done.

Let's hear you all a bit more next week.

Well done lads, you should all be proud of how you performed.

Remember the future is bright...the future is black & white.

4th October 2009

League Shield Hunt End Rangers 1 Alvechurch Lions 2

The Lions and their faithful band of supporters took the short trip across to Redditch for a tricky fixture against previously unbeaten Hunt End rangers.

Glorious sunshine, a fantastic flat pitch with closely cut grass and a sheen of dew on top greeted the lads. If they couldn't play football on this pitch, they would struggle to play it anywhere.

Liam lined up between the sticks, Michael making his first competitive start of the season alongside Olly. Max, Biller and Isaac made up the midfield with Dill leading the line. Harry, Luke Parsons, and Josh took their turns on the bench.

Hunt End were clearly a strong side, and from the first whistle penned the Lions back in their own half for the first ten minutes. During this spell of pressure, the Lions kept a fantastic shape, with Michael and Olly weathering the storm well with Liam not having to make a meaningful save, aside from his handling, which as ever was excellent.

The big Hunt End Centre half was keeping the pressure on the Lions as he intercepted most of their attempts to break from deep, Dill continued to offer himself selflessly as an out ball, but i doubt he will have had a more uncomfortable first 15 minutes than against the impressive Hunt End skipper.

Gradually the lions midfield three gained control of the midfield. Biller continuing his rich vein of form, keeping the team ticking and breaking up Hunt End's attempt to build their own attacks.

Max looked to be back to somewhere near his best. He offered excellent width and caused problems with his pace. More importantly he looked to keep the ball, passing the ball back to retain possession. Max playing in this way is a real asset - more haste less speed - well done Max!

 Isaac continued his sparkling midfield form of late, and as a three they looked very tight as the patiently picked their passes. The Lions were now on top, time and time again they got in behind Hunt end down the flanks, with efforts now regularly peppering the away sides goal.

On 16 minutes they grabbed a deserved lead. A dubious corner was awarded against the Lions, and from their own area they broke, Luke finding Dill who fed the overlapping Isaac. Issac's first time cross was met at the near post by the on rushing Dill, and a low shot nestled into the bottom corner for a deserved lead.

Against the run of play Hunt End grabbed an equaliser. A long goal kick, and for once in the game no-one out of the back three really took any responsibility, and the ball was poked round the on rushing Liam to make the score 1 1. Remember boys - talk, it prevents so many difficult situations.

At half time, Josh and Harry replaced the very impressive duo of Michael and Olly in defence. Luke Parsons was brought on for Dill.

The Lions passing game really took shape in the second half, as they passed the ball for fun, playing intelligent possession football, and making some exceptional footballing decisions.

Biller broke and fired narrowly wide.

Luke Parson's was finding space time and time again. Lobbing the ball over the keeper only for the ball to drop narrowly wide. The same player stung the keepers palms following a fantastic defensive break from Harry.

The deserved winner came on 36 minutes, and it was a goal of brilliant simplicity, with no player taking more than two touches. Harry won the ball on the edge of his own area, and slid a fantastic ball out wide to Luke Billingham on the right, who played a first time ball inside to the breaking Luke Parsons, who took one touch before sliding Dill in on goal, with a truly exceptional first touch, Dill drew the keeper before calmly slotting the ball low into the bottom corner - a fantastic team goal.

Lions had further chances to add to their score, with Liam making one save in the second half, having being superbly protected by the dynamic Harry and the classy return to top form of veteran defender Josh.

Final Score Hunt end Rangers 1 Alvechurch Lions 2

Managers man of the match : Max Battle.

Supporters man of the match : Josh Hale

An excellent result against very strong opposition, with good performances all across the pitch.

More importantly all the lads are playing to such a level that i genuinely haven't a clue which seven are the strongest - they are now very evenly matched.

A very assured competitive start from Michael, he will only get better as we move him out of his comfort zone - defensively he was rock solid.

A pleasing return to form for Max, the key to everything Max wants to achieve is slowing him down, today i thought he made a conscious effort to take less risks and to try and keep things simple. Josh - a very encouraging second half, on performances like this you make defending and playing look ludicrously simple. Max and Josh are starting to learn that a good first touch is key to everything.

 Dill will have easier days at the office, but when all said and done, we won scoring two goals, and he grabbed them both - well stuck at Dill!

Before the game Colin mentioned that the lads can be as good as they want to be, and that when they are good they are very good....there was another part to his observation, but hopefully we won't have too many of those to discuss! Remember the future is bright.....the future is black & white.

11th October 2009

Alvechurch Lions 6 Bromford Lions 3

Bromford Lions were the visitors to fortress Hopwood, buoyed on by some fantastic early season form including last weeks 4-1 thrashing of the exceptional West Hagley.

In very wet and difficult conditions, the Lions made several changes to their starting seven, Liam in goal behind a back two of Josh and Olly. Biller, Harry and Isaac across the midfield with Luke P leading the line. Max, Ben and Michael waited in the wings - their contributions were to be result changing.

Bromford started the stronger, and out muscled the Lions from the first whistle. Their play was pleasing on the eye, strong, quick and skillful. Time and time again they won the first and second balls as they played most of the game in the Lions half.

Liam was understandably finding the conditions difficult, and when the ball skidded from his grasp an open goal beckoned, only for some fine last ditch defending by Josh and Isaac denying a certain goal.

The opener soon followed, a straight goal kick down the middle fell to the Lions forward twenty yards from goal, and his first time effort flew over Liam before he got back across his goal - an intended and exceptionally well taken goal.

A second soon followed, with the Lions following the ball and loosing shape, the ball was played to the right, where a long range shot across the keeper squeezed under Liam and through Josh's valiant attempt on the line.

The game was becoming a little one sided, and i worried that a third or fourth may follow, so some sort of impetus was needed from our impressive bench.

Max replaced Luke P who had worked tirelessly up front, Ben was brought on for Harry - only 17 minutes gone, and a chance for these two to try and effect the game - something they both did tremondously well.

Gradually Biller, Isaac and Ben started to get on top in midfield. Max's directness was giving Bromford a headache, as we started to pen Bromford back.

Biller thrashed the crossbar from range - the Lions were now firmly on top.

Four minutes before the break, and the Lions deservedly got back into the game. Before the game, i asked Biller to shoot on sight if he got the chance, the wet conditions were sure to cause both keepers problems. Biller did this, and via a deflection from a skidding shot the ball nestled into the bottom corner.

Half time 1 2 down, and Michael entered the fray for the impressive and classy Josh.

Two minutes gone, and a deserved equaliser, Biller again finding the net from range. Sometimes it is difficult to coach good players, because in their minds they already know as much as you. Biller bucks this trend, he takes on board every coaching point and always tries to do as asked - two shots from range two goals.

With the Lions threatening with every attack, Biller struck the crossbar twice again, his hatrick of strikes on the bar narrowly beating his eventual hatrick.

The lions nudged in front with 12 to go, Ben breaking well and finding Max who slammed the ball home. Both these lads came into the match at a difficult time, as requested both effected the play, and raised the overall level of the teams performance. Well done Max and Ben!

Olly took a well earned break, as Harry was re-introduced.

A fourth followed, as our skipper completed an inspirational hatrick, smashing the ball high into the top corner on the half volley from 15 yards - surely the goal of game....

A fifth followed, Ben arriving late on the left, smashed a first time shot low into the bottom corner on the half volley. As the ball slammed across the keeper, i thought to myself does anyone hit the ball as sweetly as Ben? As we all know, having a sweet left foot is one thing, working hard enough to be able to use it is another. Today Ben was everything we want him to be, strong, determined, classy and ruthless.On this form, Ben can be as good as he wants to be. Exceptional performance - well done Ben!

A sixth followed with 2 minutes to go, and was by far the most audacious goal of the game. Biller picked the ball up on the half line, took two strides, and unleashed a rocket from 25 yards out...the ball flew over the hapless Lions keeper for a truly memorable goal.

Michael again looked rock solid at the back, as Liam became a virtual spectator in the second half.

Isaac continued to work the flanks tirelessly with Ben as the Lions wide two restricted the Bromford threat out wide with some fine defensive work.

Bromford squeezed a third on the final whistle, but nothing could take the gloss off a truly memorable Lions second half performance.

Final Score

Alvechurch Lions 6 Bromford Lions 3

Make no mistakes, Bromford are a very, very good team.

After 15 minutes, the game could've gone one of two ways, with Bromford grabbing a third probably the bookies favourite. The fact that they didn't owed much to the impact of Ben and Max. All the hard work is done on Tuesday nights - it is no coincidence that both have stepped up their training in the last 2 weeks - Well done both.

Two down, and some players hide, others thrive, as well as Max and Ben; Olly, Josh, Isaac and in particular Biller grew. Liam would've done to, had he needed to ,but  we defended very well.

We scored 6 goals without our top goalscorer this season in Dill. They way in which everyone shared the attacking responsibilities today was an absolute joy to watch.

Supporters Man of the match : Ben Caswell

Managers Man of the match : Luke Billingham

I can't remember a better second half performance - all of you should be very proud.

Remember, the future is bright, the future is black and white..............

Open Cup Round 3

Sunday 18th October 2009

Maypole FC 0 Alvechurch Lions 5

The Lions made the short trip over to Maypole for this 3rd round Cup tie against a team who had featured the previous season in the top division of our League.

Olly and Harry were still away partying, following a 48 hour bender which had seen them pictured in Stringfellows and China Whites with Dannielle Lloyd, Dani Behr and Cheryl Cole to name but three. The Managers chat about celebrity WAGS and them leading the lads astray at training had clearly been ignored - The News of the World's front page spread had caught the Lions answer to Journey South unaware.

Liam lined up in goal, behind Michael and skipper Biller in an unacustomed defensive role, Isaac was moved into centre midfield, supported on the flanks by two players whose previous weeks performances guaranteed a start to - Max and Ben, Dill returned up front, with Luke P and Josh starting on the bench.

The Lions started fantastically well. In the warm up before the game, they looked right at it. On a beautiful pitch they passed the ball exceptionally well from front to back, playing precise possession football and looking extremely comfortable in individual possession.

On 2 minutes the Lions took the lead. Dill lifted his shot, as Colin had mentioned before the game, the keeper seemed to be parrying the high shots, and the lads were encouraged to lift their shots and follow everything in. Dill as ever listened, shot high, and Max also having listened followed in reacting first to fire in from close range.

A second followed a minute later. Liam's kicking was excellent, and time and time again he found the space out wide. This time picking out Max who squared first time to Dill who placed the ball expertly in the bottom corner.

Isaac, Max and Ben were playing some exceptional football in midfield. When Max's shot was parried, we were again the first to react, Isaac firing narrowly wide.

A third followed on 9 minutes, Biller breaking from defence, and when the ball broke to Ben, his driven curling cross decived the keeper via Dill's run, and Ben deservedly got on the scoresheet for his third goal in 5 games, with this being his first start - impressive stats, and something for Ben to build on.

Michael looked rock solid at the back, allowing Biller to bring the ball out of defence. The midfield also seemed more preared to pass the ball back to keep possession, Ben in particular passing back to Biller on numerous occassions to retain possession. A note here lads, you went back because Biller demanded the ball from a deep position, there is nothing to stop all our defenders following this example, talking to the midfield from defence and asking for a simple pass back is really simple - it just needs a little bit of talking.

Liam's handling in wet conditions was exceptional. the previous week the conditions had not been kind to Liam, but this time he was ever more determined to put in a performance. If any other team in this league can name a goalkeeper who has put one shaky performance in over a massive 2 seasons, then i challenge them to step forward. Liam is the most consistent keeper i have seen. His distribution today was excellent, setting up wave after wave of Lions attacks.

A fourth followed on 12 minutes, Ben and Dill combining, before Dill calmly finished, as usual a fantastic first touch and a class stroke into the bottom corner. He is very good.

14 minutes and the luxury of taking off our skipper and Dill, Josh and Luke P introduced.

The Lions continued to play some fantastic football. Michael's robustness complimented by Josh's ability to intercept and read the game.

Luke P continued where Dill left off, playing further up than Dill he opened up the space behind him for Max and Ben to torment the defenders behind him.

Half time

Maypole FC 0 Alvechurch Lions 4

The second half continued in the same vein. Driven on by Isaac the Lions peppered the Maypole goal, only to find the sub keeper in unbelievable form.

All the lads were rotated, with all the lads playing over 35 minutes.

For the last 5 minutes, the lads went to one at the back, Josh moved into midfield, Dill and Luke P both upfront.

A collectors item was to follow, another slick passing move found Josh in space, and with all the skill of a proven goalscorer he calmly slotted low into the bottom corner. The celebration that followed resembled the shock of The Twins (not Olly and H) winning X Factor - great goal Josh.

Final Score

Maypole FC 0 Alvechurch Lions 5

Managers Man of the Match : Max Battle.

Supporters Man of the Match : Josh Hale

Great to see two of our original two lads playing so well. Both of them again took in what we discussed, a good first touch, and then a simple decision to make - they both got it right every time.

Liam - a special mention, defenders like playing in fornt of you, as a keeper there is no higher compliment.

Some fantastic football played, we kept the ball, were patient yet incisive, Sundays performance impressed alot of people.

Fantastic decision making across the pitch, well done all, particularly Max.

A session at Walsall's Bescot Academy beckons for all the lads, in what will be a fantastic expertience to play their academy. For the representative from a team playing at a slightly higer level to Walsall wanting to give all the lads, rather than one or two this experience, speaks volumes for every single lads performance this Sunday.

Well done lads.

Olly and H i will visit you in the Priory this week to discuss the weekend partying.....

Remember, the future is bright, the future is black and white....

Open Cup Round 3

8th November 2009

Alvechurch Lions 3 Longbridge Colts 4 (AET)

Longbridge Colts, lower league opposition from Division C were the visitors to fortress Hopwood, as the Lions looked to continue their impressive Cup run.

Skipper Billingham was rotated, as was the Lions form player Max Battle, as we felt this would be a good opportunity for some of the lads to enjoy more time on the pitch. Warming up, we looked sharp, and even without these two we definately had enough to overcome Longbridge, such is the apparent strength of our squad.

Liam lined up in goal, Josh and Olly at the back, Isaac captaining the side in centre midfield, Ben on the left, Harry on the right, Dill leading the line, Luke P and Michael on the bench.

A minutes silence before the game, new signing Kian joining the lads and demonstrating the type of application we like to see from all Lions players.

The Lions started brightly, cruising to a 2 - 0 lead.

The football played was bright and fluid. Isaac bossing the midfield, and Harry and Ben providing  excellent options out wide.

Josh and Olly looked composed at the back, Olly's natural ability to attack the ball, complimented by Josh's ability to watch the play behind him.

Liam kicked well, but really had little else to do, although as ever his handling was exceptional.

Dill scored two goals which were not easy to take, but Dill being Dill makes this game look so incedibly easy. His technique as ever was exceptional.

Half time

Alvechurch lions 2 Longbridge 0

Before the game, we talked about keeping our shape, not becoming complacent and competing as we do in league games.

Luke P and Michael were introduced for Harry and Josh respectively.

Longbridge to their credit came out with all guns blazing,

Almost immediately they pulled a goal back, we talk in training about the benefits of taking shots early, and their impressive centre forward did this extremley well, burrying a low shot beyond Liam.

However, almost from the re-start the Lions grabbed a third. Harry, Ben and Isaac combining superbly to free up Dill whose shot was parried into the pach of Luke P who volleyed home.

For some reason, the Lions then totally lost any shape they had, and started to play like an under 7 team, recklessly chasing the ball around the pitch and loosing any shape they had.

Longbridge making multiple substitutions (as they should do) confused the lads, and the oppositions shape sometimes saw them end up with some unusual formations which seemed to throw the lads. Nonetheless, if we had of kpet our shape it really wouldn't have caught us out.

Defensively we became dragged all over the pitch, challenged for balls that were the midfields to win, and then ignored directions from the defensive coach Colin to take up positions on the pitch. The easiest thing may have been to re-introduce Josh, but sometimes you need to understand which players are likely to take instructions on board and which are not - it makes team selection the next time around, and time gained on the pitch, so much easier to determine.

Deservedly Longbridge got two quick goals back, and with Isaac overworked in the midfield as he tracked three runners, it was a genuine relief to have got to full time still in the game.

Ben and Josh were re-introduced, in an attampt to get back to the formula of the first half. Harry was moved into midfield, whilst Isaac stepped back to form the old partnership with Josh at the back.

Longbridge understandably had their tails up now, and were looking the more likely to win. Whilst the shape looked slightly better, we still never really threatened, and maybe the multiple substitutions Longbridge made, meant they had a bit more left in the tank than some of our lads - this is something we will need to put right for 11 a side.

With seconds to go, a near post corner was missed by everyone, and the Colts player slammed into the roof of the net for a deserved winner. The way in which the goal went in almost summed up our day.

Final Score

Alvechurch Lions 3 Longbridge Colts 4

Supporters M.O.M - Dylan Hall

Wild scenes for Longbridge at the end, and why not, they had come away from home, and turned over a team who in their Secretary's own words, they were very respectful of.

The frustrating thing is, i genuinely believe we could have done the same against one of the Top division A teams and enjoyed a run in the Cup.

With Max, Luke and Key not playing, we were still far stronger than Longbridge, as our first half demonstrated. Forgetting the result, as we do, the performance second half was not good enough.

We play a mature brand of football, which belies the lads ages, and keep a good shape. For us to play chase ball, and get dragged into an under 7s football game is just not us.

With the three lads returning next week, competition as ever will be fierce, and i am surprised that some of the lads didn't grasp yestersday as an opportunity to cement their place next week - if they had, i genuinely wouldn't have had a problem leaving this weeks missing players out.

Some of the lads need to have a think about what playing for this team means to them. Taking Ben as an example, he is no longer happy with fleeting performances on the pitch, he wants to play a bigger part. His performances the last three weeks, have meant he has earnt that right, yesterday i felt he and Isaac worked hard, and but for an incredibly miserable coach, they may have picked up a medal for their efforts - Apologies on that front.

As Colin and i said yesterday, if we sound like we think we know better...it's because we do. Putting things into perspective, this is the first time in two years (incidentally the morning after bonfire night 2 years ago) that the lads have known better, and for the most part they are a fantastic bunch to coach.

A minor blip, we will try some new things on shape on the training field, and we will put it right.

Remember..the future is bright, the future is black & white...

15th November 2009

Alvechurch Lions 4 Maypole 1

A sun drenched fortress Hopwood greeted our visitors Maypole, as the Lions looked to build on their unbeaten league home record.

With Isaac and Harry rotated, the Lions lined up with Liam in goal, Josh and Olly in defence, Luke, Max and Ben across the midfield and Dill leading the line. Luke P, Michael and expectant debutant Kian waited in the wings, Key desperate to make his first Lions appearance against his former team.

The Lions started well, Luke bossing the middle of the park, and looking to get good early balls out wide to Ben and Max in order to feed Dill.

On 5 minutes the Lions got off to a fine start, Max's excellent delivery from a corner, saw the skipper running on and arriving late at the near post, towering above the defence he glanced a superb angled downward header across the Maypole keeper for an exceptional goal straight from the training ground.

Unperturbed, a determined Maypole responded, Liam a little fortunate when he palmed a speculative Maypole shot on to the bar from distance.

For all their grit, Olly and Josh remained steadfast, Olly attacking the ball well, and Josh calmly bringing the ball out of defence with some imaculate distribution.

A second soon followed, Max fed by Luke breaking clear on the right, and crossing for Dill to calmly slot with his usual calm finish.

A third goal came on 16 minutes, as the Lions were now in total control, Luke to Ben who fed Dill for a finish that mirrored his first, a good first touch and a calm low shot.

For the rest of the half the Lions took up some good positions in the final third, but perhaps an element of comlacency had slipped in, with some heavy touches when placed well in wide positions. In central attacking positions Dill has been magnificent in holding the ball up all season, however he sniffed a hatrick, and on some occassions the front three seemed desperate to get the ball forward, rather than pass the ball around the opposition defence. When they did pass the ball around the opposition defence they were devastating.

Kian entered the fray on 20 minutes, to raptuous applause for his Lions debut. After a Roy of the Rovers first five minutes, he settled down excellently, composed strong and powerful, he gave the side a much needed physical prescence.

Deservedly Maypole pulled a goal back on 22 minutes, the lions stopped expecting a foul to be awarded rather than waiting for the refs whistle. A long range shot catching Liam slightly unaware, and from the parry the Maypole forwards reacted first to grab a goal back.

Half time

Alvechurch Lions 3 Maypole 1

Luke Parsons came on at half time for Max, and looked very lively early on, taking up some great positions, and narrowly firing wide when well placed. Keep going Luke, another goal is not far off, when it comes watch him go.

Michael entered the fray for Josh, as for the first time in 3 years the Lions tried two big lads in the defensive births. Both stood up well to everything that was thrown at them.

One moment of magic brightened up the 2nd half, Luke feeding Max on the right, who stepped inside and layed the ball back to Luke who curled a fantastic first time 15 yard curler high into the top corner.

A good day at the Office, and still encouraging considering the lads didn't really step out of 2nd gear.

SMOM : Kian Dutfield

MMOM : Josh Hale

It is difficult when going 3 0 up after 12 minutes to really kick on and put on a very good football performance, nonethelss that is what we will always aspire to. Some of our play in patches was excellent, however i think we could have done the basics a little better, particularly in the final third both centrally and in wide positions, a good first touch, a lift of the head, pass and move - when we do this, we look a very, very good team.

Well done to Key, welcome to the club, a very assured first game, you undertandably wanted to make your mark on the game when you came on, and when you held position defensively you looked a very good defender who i think could do really well at 11 a side.

Josh, the last few weeks have seen you back to your best, today you never gave the ball away, won every tackle, secured the ball and passed it very well - an example to all the lads, it really is a very simple game.

Remember, the future is bright, the future is black & white......

24th January 2010

Alvechurch Lions 2 Cadbury Athletic 1

A new year, and a first game in 6 weeks for the Lions, as Cadbury were the visitors to a sunny fortress Hopwood.

With the weather playing havoc with both teams preperations, todays game could have been an excuse to dust off some post Christmas rustiness. The Lions however had taken in some valuable indoor training over the course of the last week, and seemed well prepared for todays cup game.

Liam lined up in goal, behind Olly and Harry, Biller, Isaac and Ben in midfield with Dill playing up top. Strength on the side as Max, Key, and Luke P waited in the wings. Great to see Michael and Josh along to spur their team mates on.

The Lions started really well. Liam was instigating waves of Lions attacks with some excellent distribution.

In midfield Ben was reasuringly solid, tracking back well, and giving a physical side to his game not seen previously. His distribution was good and sensible, and he looked stronger than he has done for us before.

Biller was snarling into the tackles, and looking to play the right pass out wide every time. Isaac was as ever industrious and direct, his pace a constant thorn in the Cadbury side.

Olly and Harry were pacy and agressive at the back, sniffing out any Cadbury threat, and distributing the ball intelligently.

Dill was continuing to offer himself as a short option, the Cadbury defender marking him was a strong lad, as is Dill, and theirs was a battle of strength initially, one which Dill will become acustomed to more and more next season.

The first chance fell to the Lions, Biller freeing Dill who raced clear, drawing a fantastic double save from the Cadbury keeper.

Dill again went close firing across the face of the goal from a clever ball by Ben.

Biller looked to have scored from a free kick, before the keeper somehow tipped the ball over.

With the Lions totally on top, Cadbury grabbed an opener against the run of play. With their first corner, a superbly driven corner was attacked at the back post, and nestled into the back of the net.

Half time

Alvechurch Lions 0 Cadbury 1

The team talk was easy, keep playing the way we were and we would get our just rewards.

Luke Parsons had already joined the fray, and was having a fantastic game linking up well with the midfield, and playing some fantastic passes to the wide players.Luke is a good footballer, and sometimes he just needs to realise this, something we should be more than willing to help him with.

Key and Max came on second half, once again demonstrating how strong this bunch of players now are, the ptatience everyone is showing at the moment will surely reap its rewards next season.

Key slotted in effortlessly, holding his position really well. When Key keeps these good habits up, he will be a major player for this squad.

Max as ever was Max, pacy, tenacious, and skillful, on his day a handful for any defender on either side of the pitch. An important player for this squad, and his pace was begining to cause Cadbury all sorts of problems.

Isaac looked certain to score, the Cadbury keeper making a wonder save from 4 yards. Luke Parsons almost grabbed an equasliser from Billers free kick.

For all their dominance, and the chances created, Cadbury's continued to hold on, their back two and keeper playing the game of their lives.

Isaac flashed a superb header wide from Max's pinpoint cross.

With 3 minutes to go, Max was upended 20 yards from goal. Biller stepped up, and with pure venom in his right foot, crashed a pile driver in off the underside of the bar.

The Lions pressed and pressed, but Cadbury held out, to force the game into extra time.

Two minutes gone, and the referee having warned the Cadbury defender for pushing outside the area, spotted the same offence in the area - a foul in the area - Penalty. Biller stepped up confidently, and Tevez like, nearly lifted the goal out of the ground 2 1, and the Lions in the lead for the first time.

With a minute left, Cadbury had a free kick in exactly the same place as Biller's first. With a shot equally as good, an equaliser looked a certainty, until Liam came through a crowd of Cadbury defenders and somehow got his fingertips to the ball, touching it onto the post, for a miracle save. The danger wasn't over, as the ball trickled along the line, the Cadbury's forwards looked certain to score, but their reactions were not quite as quick as Isaac's who somehow saved the day with an equally miraculous clearance.

Final Score

Alvechurch Lions 2 Cadbury Athletic 1

S.M.O.M. - Olly Fluke

M.M.O.M - Liam O'Toole

An excellent squad performance, made all the better given the lack of any recent match practice. Our heads never dropped, our decison making was good, and our fitness was excellent towards the end, aided by the numbers we now have in this squad.

A quick mention for Key and Luke P. Key is finding his way well with us now, he is learning to hold his position, and i thought he was excellent in the second half. Luke P, excellent link up play, and a player who is definately capable of doing well at this level, perhaps the challenge is for us to make him believe the same. Ability and confidence is an unbeatable combination, and Luke has bags of ability.

Liam, great distribution, Olly a colosuss (bet he's never been called that..).

Well done lads, great to be back.

Sunday 7th February 2010

Bromford Lions 4 Alvechurch Lions 5

The Lions travelled away to Castle Bromwich for a league game against Bromford Lions.

Bromford are a fair and very competitive team, and with the power and height of Dill and Kian missing, this was sure to be a physical test for our young Lions.

Liam lined up in goal, behind Josh and Olly. Max, Ben and Biller made up a midfield three, with Isaac playing in an experimental role up front, where we felt his blistering pace would cause any defence a problem.

The Lions started well. When we got the ball to Isaac he was racing clear every time, and threatened twice going through one on one on a couple of occassions, but was denied by the in form Bromford keeper.

Max and Ben were also providing good width, although it was difficult for both of them, as the pitch was smaller than our under 7s pitch, making our expansive passing game very difficult.

Whilst the Lions were firmly on top for the first ten minutes, Bromford were causing the Lions defenders problems with their ability to put long throws in to the Lions area due to the narrow pitch. Furthermore, their corners were well drilled, and on a narrow pitch we felt the slightest touch might cause us problems.

On 12 minutes Bromford grabbed the lead. A corner was drilled in to the near post, as Josh came off the post, the ball flew through the gap into the empty net.

As a unit i was even more amazed when two minutes later, a corner was drilled in, and i watched 3 of our players in a line duck out of the way. As a team we have some tough cookies, but today, and with the exception of Biller and Max no-one seemed interested in attacking the ball.

Maybe Isaac's abscence from defending was missed, i know all the other lads can attack the ball, so hopefully this was a one off - i ilked the look of Isaac up front, so maybe we have some work to do on competing in defensive and wide areas.

A second followed, a long throw again causing havoc, and with no one taking any responsibility, the first header was won by Bromford, and as the second ball dropped Liam was left exposed to a simple finish from 3 yards.

The half continued in the same vein, Bromford out competing our lads, and winning every header. A combination of good fortune and some unbelievable saves from our number one keeping us in the game.

With a minute of the half Isaac and Max combined well, to leave Ben with a simple tap in, to give the Lions hope.

Bromford Lions 2 Alvechurch 1

The last time we played Bromford, we had come in at half time in exactly the same position, and shown enough character to win the game.

The team talk was simple, if we were not prepared to compete regardless of our ability we wouldn't get anything out of the game.

H and Michael were brought on in defence, and Luke P entered the fray on the left.

Almost immediately Luke P was picking the ball up out wide and playing with a freedom and confidence which made him easy on the eye. His touch was exellent, and his ability to beat players was wreaking havoc in the Bromford defence.

2 minutes into the second half, and we were back level. Our skipper had endured his quietest first half of the season, the second half to his credit, was to be one of his loudest. Breaking from deep, he picked the perfect pass for Isaac, who took one touch before slamming a superb equaliser into the top corner.

From this stage, i could see only one winner. The defence looked to have Bromford under control, and were attacking the ball well.

Incredibly, another couple of defensive errors got Bromford back in to the lead at 4 2, just as the Lions had looked the likely winners.

Biller broke for the upteenth time, and with Max and Luke P occupying the defenders a gap opened up for him to pull a sensational goal back. Game on, 10 minutes left.

Luke P won another corner, and delivered a poweful ball to the near post, where Biller dived and glanced a sensational headed equasliser into the back of the net.

Harry was now taking responsibility, something he does well, and when a player does this you always feel that you have a chance of not conceding again.

With  five minutes to go, Max rattled the cross bar, before Biller's header was somehow kept out.

With two minutes on the clock, Luke P charged down a goalkick, brushed the defender aside and fired goalwards, Glenn screamed goal from the sidelines, before i realised he had his headphones on and Phillips had just equalised for the Blues.....somehow the keeper kept it out, but as the ball broke to Isaac he wasn't about to miss from three yards. A winner, and tremendous character shown by the boys to get themsleves out of a difficult situation.

Bromford lions 4 Alvechurch Lions 5

M.O.M. - Luke Parsons & Liam O'Toole

S.M.O.M - Harry Fluke

The character shown by these lads is admirable.

Bromford for long periods showed far more desire than our lads, and proved that ability is meaningless without the desire and the will to compete. We always try to talk about the performance, and todays was not great. Defensively, we are still very much work in progress, and we are fortunate that our ability to score goals is compensating for some poor defensive decison making, and a lack of responsibility being taken, all things i am really looking forward to working on with the lads, when we can get back outdoors, a factor which cannot be ignored.

Focussing on the real positives, we signed a new player Sunday, his name - Luke Parsons. A fantastic second half performance, which showed exceptional ability and a willingness to work that was incredibly refreshing. Well done Luke! you are easily capable of keeping that level of performance up, your standards have been set.

Liam, H - well done you took responsibilty the whole time you were on the pitch, Biller - as did you second half, and what a difference that makes.

Saturday brings our first 11 a side friendly, and i can't wait. It has been just 3 1/2 years, and here we are on the big pitch - fantastic.

Well done lads on the character shown, i do understand how difficult this stop start season thing can be.

14th March 2010

West Hagley 0 Alvechurch Lions 2

Alvechurch Lions picked up a hard earned three points away to a very good West Hagley side.

Highlight included a first half double from Dylan Hall, and an excellent performance leading the line.

West Hagley are an excellent side, but some intelligent defending by Harry and Olly, aided and abetted by some dogged tracking by Luke Billingham and Isaac Hill, saw the Lions pinch the three points.

Liam also made a couple of excellent stops in the second half.

M.M.O.M. - Dylan Hall / Liam O'Toole

S.M.O.M - Isaac Hill

Some good decisions well made defensively. A good performance against excellent hosts, who as ever played the game the right way.

21st March

Arden Forest 5 Alvechurch Lions 1

28th March

Alvechurch Lions 0 Arden Forest 4

What a difference a week can make...

Ok first halfs in both games saw the Lions lead away from home, and unlucky to trail at half time at home.

Ignoring the results in the second half, a little about the performance ;

The defence were actually ok in both games, well done Josh, Harry, and Olly.

The midfield however offered very little cover, and particularly in wide areas were guilty of over comitting and not taking basic one v one defending techniques into the game. The front line offered nothing defensively, which meant that as a team we failed to do the basics of defending from the front. Midfield is fairly simple by definition, defend and attack. We play wide midfield players, where there needs to be more emphasis on defending. The lads might want to play as wingers, but this is not how they are coached.

Arden to their credit were strong, and in my view fair. Every chance they had (including some half chances) they took very well, and were extremely clinical in front of goal. Sometimes you get days like that, where everything you hit flies in - the key of course is to make sure that you get your shots away early, and then you always have a chance. During these two games we have tried to walk the ball in, and need to get more clinical in forward positions.

Colin and I spend alot of time trying to introduce some interesting sessions which work on the finer points of the game, and overall we are really happy with the lads progress. We look at some of the lads, the ones who want to take training drills into matches, and are delighted with their development. The results genuinely are irrelevant,because we know that if we take the drills into matches the lads will see the long term benefits, and after all we're in it for the long haul.

Form now until the end of the season, if we didn't pick up another point, but took most things off the training ground into a match i would be ok with that. The reality being of course, that we would actually pick up more points if we did. From now until the end of the season, I will be looking at how well every player does this (take training into matches), and make sure the players doing this spend more time on the pitch. The team will not be picked on ability, but a willingness to learn.

These are a great bunch of lads, the majority of who want to learn and develop as players, and not chase a cows bladder aimlessley around the pitch. We really look forward to working with you lads and putting in some excellent performances from now until the end of the season.

There is a chance with Key, Luke B and Isaac away for the next couple of weeks for some of you to really try and do the right things. Please, please, please take the training into these matches, regardless of whether we are playing top of the league or a semi final of the cup. I care little about the outcome of either.

4th April 2010

Bromsgrove Town 0 Alvechurch Lions 1

A return to league action against a team challenging for the division having lost fewer games than any other team in our division.

Bromsgrove are a very good side, who play some exceptional football and are a credit to Neil and Chris who coach them. The last time we travelled to Bromsgrove we left on the end of a 7 1 lesson in football, the outcome of which we could have had few complaints about.

As I arrived the ground at 11.00am, i was delighted to see all the boys had beaten me to the ground. They looked warm in their winter coats and tracksuits, as a cold wind was biting across the pitch. The little things really can make a difference - thanks all.

With Key and Luke missing today was all about these lads performing and taking the key coaching points into the game, the result really was secondary, and this was explained in great detail before the game to the lads.

Looking across at the Bromsgorve team, they looked a very tall and strong team, having 2 of our more powerful lads missing would make our task all the more difficult.

Liam in goal, behind Josh and Harry, Isaac captaining the side, flanked by Luke Parsons and Olly, Dill playing up top. Max, Michael and Ben waited in the wings.

The Lions play in the first half was truly exceptional.

Liam was a virtual spectator, Dill was defending from the front superbly. The last week we have really put Dill through the mill regarding upping his work rate off the ball. Today he was everywhere, not allowing the 2 very good footballing Bromsgrove defenders anytime on the ball.

Behind him, Luke Parsons had also done alot of work in his last 2 seesions on work rate. Today he was everywhere. Winning the ball like I had never seem him do before, and breaking in behind the Bromsgrove defence to cause all sorts of problems offensively. His breathing was heavy 15 minutes in, fantastic - a great shift Luke.

Olly was as ever tireless, providing protection to the defence, the highest compliment I can pay him, was to say that his work rate mirrored that of Luke and Dill's.

Isaac was unbelievable, harrying and winning the ball back well, driving into the space and playing some very intelligent balls out wide to our two midfield runners. As a four the midfield and forward line played together as a unit, kept a fantastic shape, and treated us all to some fantastic football with a string of excellent decisions. The lads had the confidence at last to take key coaching points onto the pitch, and relied on their technique rather than getting mixed up in the occasion.

Josh was as composed as ever, complimented by the pacey and dogmatic Harry. Wave after wave of attack was instigated by these two.

It would take too long to go through every Lions shot on target during the first half, but I counted 11, and Liam had been a virtual spectator.

Half time we somehow went in at 0 0 -  not that it mattered, the performance had been expceptional. Half time was an easy team talk, keep performing like you are and keep faith in trying the drills on the pitch, and lets see what happens.

Max was introduced for Josh who had been tidy as ever in defence, as Olly moved back alongside Harry.

We started where we left off. Max took on his defensive role admirably, and looked to play Dill in ealry with some excellent passes. For me, this was Max's best performance of the season. Ask Max, and he would probably disagree, he didn't complete lots of mazy dribbles, he didn't have a shot on target, all things Max thinks about alot. Instead, he kept a fantastic shape for the team, got goalside of his man everytime, closed the ball very well, and passed the right ball at the right time. All these things are invaluable to the team, and I was delighted that Max had took all of this on board. If he can consistently try to do this, the sky is the limit for him.

The winner came on thity seven minutes, a corner was partially cleared to Isaac, who rifled the ball through a ruck of players high into the net for a sensational finish - an inspirational performance from our Captain for the day.

Ben replaced Luke Parsons who was literally running on empty. Luke had put a real shift in, and more days like this will help his fitness - he has set his standards. Ben like Max played a key role for the team, closing the ball well and showing good strength. Again, some good decisions, well made, at the right time.

With ten to go Bromsgrove came back into it. Whilst we deserved the win, you don't always get what you deserve in this game. Liam made sure we did. Two sensational saves, the second truly was unbelievable from point blank range, and the one player who is capable of effecting every game has done exactly that. A match winning performance from a player who had been largely redundant for most of the game. Good concentration Liam - well done!

Michael on for the tireless Dill defended well from the front. The final whistle blew, Bromsgrove as ever (not that we would know as we've not beaten them before!) gracious in defeat.

Bromsgrove Town 0 Alvechurch Lions 1

Supporters M.O.M - Dylan Hall

Managers M.O.M - Luke Parsons & Liam O'Toole

All Colin and i asked of the lads was to take the key coaching points into the game. Before the game we said that if we didn't get another point all season but took the sessions into the game we would be happy. The reality of course being that if the lads take the key points into a game, their ability will compliment this and the results can look after thereselves.

I felt technique aside, we were strong physically all over the pitch today. A small team in statue with a huge heart.

Dill, Luke P, Max and Ben - I have really put you through it the last 2 sessions. Thank you for sticking with it, hopefully you realise that the hard work is worth it. You all set yourselves very high standards yesterday. The ability you all have is undoubted - to match that with workrate suits you all!

Key, and Captain Luke, we look forward to having you back soon - the lads did you proud yesterday.

Liam thanks for the Easter egg, your next M.O.M. will be at Christmas....

11th April 2010

Open Cup Semi Final

Alvechurch Lions 0 Ulverley Hawks 4

Top of the Prem Ulverley were todays visitors in todays Open Cup Semi final, following the Lions impressive Cup run.

In order to get a result out of the game we would need to be at our very best. With Skipper Billingham away, Vice Skipper Isaac away, Centre half Key and left midfielder Ben also absent, today was to prove a huge test for the remaining 8 lads. As ever though, we were more concerned as to how these lads performed, the odds being stacked against them making their reaction all the more important.

Liam lined up in goal, Harry and Olly at the back, Dill captained the team from centre midfield, a position he had never played before, flanked by Max on the right and Luke P on the left, cultured defender Josh was moved up front for the first time. Michael waited in the wings.

Ulverley were a strong team all over the pitch. Physically firm but fair, with good ability throughout.

They got the ball forward quickly, which meant a busy afternoon for Olly and Harry. Time and time again they dealt with some long balls well, not content to just help the ball out, they got the ball down and tried to play their way out of trouble. With Colin in support, they kept a fantastic shape, and frustrated the Hawks front line well.

Dill was a revelation in midfield. I wondered if he would get about as well as our usual suspects in midfield. Instead, after 10 minutes i found myself telling him to slow down. His work rate was exceptional. When he had the ball he was taking an excellent first touch and spraying the ball around for fun - the best passing display of any Alvechurch Lions midfield player this season. Having tried to get Dill more agressive in recent weeks, i was delighted to see him put his foot and head in where it hurt to good effect. Without Luke last week, Isaac gave probably the best performance of a midfiled player all season - yesterday Dill was equally as good. An unbelievable feat for his first game in there.

Either side of him Max and Luke P were working tirelessly to track the impressive Hawks wingers. To be fair to them, both tried to lean in and get their shoulders in, however Ulverley were very strong lads. Encouragingly though they had tried to take key coaching points into the game, and for this i applaud them both. Some days the other lads are just stronger physically, but as long as they both try to do the right things off the ball (as they did) i can have few complaints.

Josh worked tirelessly up front. He had agreed to do a job for the team, and worked hard to stop Ulverley playing from the back.

Five minutes before the break, and kicking up the hill we were 0 0 . The introduction of Ulverley's impressive centre forward changed that. A sloppy first and third goal, and a rifle of a second and the tie had swung hugely in Ulverely's favour. I felt we reacted too slowly for the first and third goals, but the lads had worked so hard first half that it was difficult to get too carried away. concentration however, as ever, the key.

Half time

Alvechurch Lions 0 Ulverley Hawks 3

We changed things around a little second half. Michael on up front and Josh moved to right midfield.

I felt Michael worked harder than he has done before up front, and certainly seemed to occupy their defenders very well with his physical prescence. Last week in training he had the best technique in the finishing drill, and it will be interesting to see if some work on his core skills might make him an impact option further on up the pitch. If he is willing to try and learn this side of things with us, and put the effort in we saw yesterday then worth a go, application as with all these lads is key.

Josh slotted in really well on the right. Going forward he was cultured and very determined. In Josh we have our right back for next season, and yesterday reiterated to me that he isn't just a right sided defender, he is a good footballer who will give this side a great option going forward from right back. When Glenn took the physical seesion a couple of weeks ago, Josh was last man standing - today he was the same, half the size of some of the lads, but not out muscled once - well done Josh.

Ulverley added a fourth in the second half. Liam pulled off a couple of great stops, and the sides pretty much nullified one another.

Final score

Alvechurch Lions 0 Ulverley Hawks 4

Boring I know, but this was all about the performance. The lamen would say, 'if we had such and such etc, etc.' If we had the players missing available we would have learnt nothing yesterday that we do not already know, all four of them are good players. Instead, I learnt far more about some of the lads yesterday than I ever could have hoped for - long term far more valuable than a Cup final medal.

A couple of things I learnt : The centre midfield slots, and as a result who plays in defence and up front is far from a foregone conclusion. Dylan created more questions than answers for us yesterday, a remarkable achievement considering the form of the absent players. A headache i never thought i'd have, but am delighted to have now inherited.

Josh had been perceived by me as maybe not physical enough to play in midfield. Yesterday he came against probably the strongest physical side in the league and more than held his own - an excellent second half Josh, thank you for doing a job up front for us in the first.

Michael found a work rate we haven't seen before, again food for thought.

Olly and Harry received rave reviews all round - strangely this one didn't surprise me.

Finally,  an injured Ben wanted to play, and thanks to Kerry for realising how important it was to get numbers yesterday. Unfortunately we have 8 games left, and we need to get Ben right for the run in. I know he was gutted for me to leave him out yestersday - i promise it was for the best. Thanks both for your support.

A chance yesterday to work closely with the lads who have an understated influence on this squad. A joy to work with, and an excellent performance.

Supporters M.O.M - Harry & Olly Fluke.

Manager M.O.M - Dylan Hall.

18th April 2010

Phoenix United 0 Alvechurch Lions 1

A trip over to Erdington for probably the most difficult away game of the season beckoned for the Lions, who returned to full strength welcoming back Isaac, Biller and Key.

With the lads having performed so well over the last couple of weeks, it was important that some key positions were filled by the lads who had unexpectedly played in these positions previously and performed so well.

Liam lined up in goal, behind the volcanic two Harry and Olly, Dill retained the captaincy for the day in the middle of the park, flanked on the left by the returning Biller and the right by Josh, Isaac was to lead the line. Michael, Ben, Max and Key formed a strong bench.

Luke Parsons travelled the long journey to support his teamates, good work Luke!

We knew today would be the sternest physical test for the lads, and the lads had prepared well following an excellent contact and shielding session with Martin Johnson's right hand man, Glenn  Parsons - thanks Glenn a first class session.

The Lions almost got off to the worst possible start, Liam's handling is in the main excellent, but a spill after five seconds and a gaping net beckoned, Biller hacking a tame shot off the line. Whether it was a lack of concentration or his Simon Cowell high waistline restricting his movement only Liam will know.

Olly and Harry were continuing their outstanding form of late. Phoenix were very direct on a small pitch, bombarding our backline with long goal kicks. Time and time again Olly and Harry headed the ball clear, not alllowing the ball to bounce and cause them any problems.

Josh was continuing his form of the previous week, running into the space on the right, taking a touch, and delivering a variery of excellent crosses into the box.

Dill was freeing Josh and Biller up for fun. His touch as ever was excellent as he manipulated the ball out of his feet and sprayed passes wide. Captain again for the day, Dill is playing with huge confidence at the moment, and as a lad seems to have really come out of his shell. The last couple of weeks have been good for Dill, as they have been for Olly, Harry and Josh.

Biller was doing his job, the left midfield role is one he is unaccustomed to but as ever with Luke ask him to do a specific job and he will do it. These are the qualities than make him our captain, and it may well be that from now until the end of the season he plays in a few more different positions, before he moves back to centre midfield at 11 side. He also linked up very well with Dill.

Isaac was as ever outstanding. When a player is versatile they are normally competent in a number of positions. Isaac is versatile but outstanding in any position he plays. Today his pace was a constant thorn in the Phoenix side, and his work rate in defending from the front was relentless. Few players take as many key coaching points into a game as Isaac.

All across the pitch we were strong. Glenn's session had given the lads some renewed belief, and i loved the way they leant in and stood their ground against some very strong lads.

We won numerous free kicks in and around the box, testament to how well the lads shielded ball and thus forced fouls out of the opposition - well listened lads!

On 18 minutes we grabbed a deserved lead. Another foul on the edge of the area, Biller lined up to shoot before rolling a clever pass to Olly who drilled in a low shot, Isaac reacted first as ever to smash a half volley high into the roof of the net.

Liam's distribution had been very good, and he then pulled off a fantastic save one minute before half time to ensure the Lions went in at half time 0 1 up.

The second half saw Max introduced on the right, Ben on the left and Key in defence.

Max almost sealed it with a superb mazy run, before shooting at the keeper.

Ben delivered a number of telling crosses from the left, as the Lions continued to look unfazed.

Key was dealing with the long ball excellently, attacking and putting his head in where it hurts - a proper centre halves performance. Isaac having switched to defence was faultless alongside him.

Michael was brought into the fold up front, and again worked the line tirelessly.

Liam made a excellent save down low to his right, made even better by the fact that he held the ball as Phoenix sniffed a chance.

For the most part the Lions looked in control, Biller almost grabbing a second in the last minute.

Final Score

Phoenix United 0 Alvechurch Lions 1

S.M.O.M. - Josh Hale

M.M.O.M - Isaac Hill

We prepared well for this game, and as ever all we ask is that the key coaching points are taken into the game. Yesterday the lads took Glenn's drills into the game, and it worked. We had 6 free kicks on the edge of the area because we shielded the ball correctly, on another day Biller and Dill work the keeper every time as a result of these opportunities.

The lads are playing with alot of confidence in their individual ability, i think that the depleted numbers has helped greatly over the last couple of weeks. Excellent players have been missing, but the other lads have risen to the occassion and it seems to have given them much more belief.

Some of you will have looked at the league and the games in hand, and thought about where we could finish up. From my point of view, it will be what it will be, next season is still what we are working to. We plan to experiment on positions from now until the end of the season, and if in doing that we are there or thereabouts in the division then fine - we'll not shy away from anything. We now have enough points with seven games to go, to be safe in this division, and if we learn the 11 a side game next season in this Division then that's also good for me and the lads  - either way from now until the end of the season we are in good position. Another very impressive performance - well done lads, and thanks to you all for your fantastic support.

23/04/10 - 16/05/10 - Lions Promoted to the Prem!

The run in, 7 games in 3 weeks, let's get this season out of the way - move onto 11 a side, confident that we have already have enough points in the bag to finish mid table.

What a difference 3 weeks makes..

Well, nothing to play for so lets try a few lads in different positions, and hopefully develop their all round game.

First up was West Hagley at home on a Saturday morning. West Hagley play football the way it should be played. For long periods they penned us back and deserved at least a draw out of the game. However, defensively all over the pitch we were strong even without Olly and H, whilst Liam pulled of a couple of incredible stops. Isaac did his usual, nicked a 1-0 win for us. More importantly, some good performances in alien positions for Dill and Josh.

The following day was Knowle at home, a win would almost secure them the league. We sorely missed Olly and H, and all the lads turned in probably their most lethargic performance for a long time. The 0 1 reversal probably flattered us, whilst Knowle had one hand on the trophy having played their penultimate game of the season. For us, five left, and whilst mathematically we could catch Knowle, our focus on development in different positions made this a ridiculous ask.

Five to go, Bromsgrove at home, a top, top team, with a great Coach in Neil. Like Hagley the previous week, they probably had the better of this fixture, however some fantastic defending, and a sublime finish from Dill following a great run off the ball from Michael meant that we again nicked the win - the Divisons answer to George Graham's Arsenal kept going...

Cadbury the following day, and the previous days exertions were sure to effect the lads as they had the previous week. We went 2 up top, Cadbury had the best defence in the division, so we thought why not give it a go. Dill opened with a stunning volley from Josh's excellent delivery. Max then returned to his mercurial best, a devasting hatrick in which he finished first time every time, produced our best goals of the season and quite simply blew Cadbury away.

The next game saw Phoenix at our place, and here was a team who still had title aspirations of their own, having destroyed teams in previous weeks. This one we dominated, and were strong all over the pitch. We came against a keeper in top, top form, but grabbed a deserved opener through our skipper. A late equaliser was against the run of play, and was our first defensive lapse in 9 games - not bad at all boys.

So, off to bottom of the league Maypole. Incredibly, a win would secure runners up spot. Our recent form had been truly exceptional. We won 2-1, having gone 2-0 through Dill and Luke, and found another inspired figure between the posts, Maypole grabbed a goal back. For once this performance was not as good as previous, but the lads had given their all over the last few weeks and must have been running on empty. Just for once, we were prepared to accept the result over the performance, although credit to the lads they were visibly disappointed - this is how they have become to value performance over the result. We are promoted.

And so, off to Knowle. Three weeks ago and most of our lads would've been on the beach with a San Miguel. Incredibly they were now one win away from winning the league. The league was un-important to me, I had been lifted hugely by the way the lads were performing now, and after all we were already up - today was a game to enjoy, a bonus.

Our supporters kitted out the away ground like our own, Si, Jude and Ester up to thir old tricks - we wouldn't have it any other way!

With 2 upfront we had the better of the first half, and played at an excellent tempo. Again we found a keeper in inspired form, who was later to be awarded the Man of the match award. Despite all our pressure, Knowle defended excellently and kept their nerve well.

Against the run of play, and with 12 to go they grabbed a slightly soft opener. We were forced to chase, and having changed our shape probably looked less likely to score. Knowle held out. The best team win the league over the season, and Knowle had been that. Today we maybe deserved a result, but in fairness we had won a few 1 0s recently which could have gone either way. That's football, and despite what Hansen says, these things do normally even themselves up.

And so, four years after a handful of lads fell over some size 3 balls, here we are in the Premier Division. More importantly, forget why we got there, but think how we got there - playing the right way with fantastic attitude. We try and coach the right way, but without the lads attitude this becomes meaningless. Rog helps them on their attitude, but for the most part is it inherant ; and testimony to our group of maginificent supporters,

As Knowle went up to collect their winner medals the lads conduct was as expected - exemplary. None of us were overly disappointed, all of us adults and the lads are clever enough to know where they at - and for this we were all very, very proud.

And so, Liam, Josh, Olly, Harry, Key, Luke B, Isaac, Ben, Michael, Luke P, Dill, Harry D, Max,  really well done. As ever you remain a joy to coach, you make Colin, Rog and I exceptionally proud

And so the end of an era. It has been a priveldge to wear the black and white of Alvechurch lions, and meet some fantastic people along the way. Thank you to everyone at Alvechurch Lions for all the support they have given us, in particular Foles who first got me involved, Dave and Helen. We wish you and all the Lions teams genuinely well for the future. Anyway, i'm signed up for the open age Lions team next season - unlucky for you...!!

Thanks to Rog and Colin. I'll save the Gwenyth Paltrow stuff until the 4th June - you all know their huge contribution, and i know you all appreciate it.

Si - thank you, some priceless tips when this team started out - unfortunately Rooney wouldn't come, but a good thought nonetheless.

To the best supporters in the league, thank you. Your committment has been incredible, sometimes i forget that there is life outside of football, but thanks for sticking with it.

Finally, and most importantly to the lads. You should all be very proud of what you have achieved with the Lions, and how you have developed as footballers and lads. Football aside, none of you ever say a single cross word against each other. The respect you show each other is one of the key reasons we gel as a team. A great bunch of lads, not a bad one amongst them.

Thank you to the Lions.

Andy