Boys Under 10s Blue
| Manager: | Justin Nixon-Taylor |
|---|---|
| Assistant Manager: | Richard Hollings |
| Team Colours: | Red & Blue |
| League: | East Lancashire Alliance |
| Home Pitch: | Lammack (Old Blackburnians) |
| Kick-off Time: | 10.00 am |
| Training Time: | Pleckgate 6.00 pm |
Lammack Crowned Under 10 Green League Champions
Posted on 16/04/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
Champions !
Cham-pi-o-nies, cham-pi-o-nies, olé, olé, olé,
Lammack 4 v 0 Mill Hill Blue
Posted on 15/04/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
This had been a long season which saw Lammack starting their last game in second place in the league only two points behind AFC Darwen - who had finished their games - there was everything to play for.
The game kicked off in bright sunshine after the pre-match niceties of the teams shaking hands. The assembled Lammack support was swelled due to the importance of the occasion with more friends, family and interested observers from the teams around us in the League – Ronan’s family even cut short their Easter break to ensure that he was available for the game.
As usual the nerves amongst the supporters were well hidden from the lads and they started the game well. Ronan and Ryan at the back were in bullish mood and determined that nothing would get past them and access the business end of the pitch. Oliver had the look of a player with goals in him today and his confidence and flair on the ball rubbed off on the other Lammack lads.
Within the first two minutes Lammack showed that they meant business with Donyal working hard and providing the first of many good crosses into the box from the left and Oliver had a volley that just failed to hit the target. The initial signs were good, with the Mill Hill keeper being called upon to make a string of good saves but on three minutes TNT worked hard on the left and provided a great cross into the box for Oliver to coolly fire into the net. 1 – 0.
The watching Lammack faithful went nuts as the nerves started to dissolve. Lammack ran the game from here on with wave after wave of Red & Blue attacks keeping the Mill Hill boys pinned in their own half. Donyal, Oliver, Paul and TNT kept the pressure on the Mill Hill defence and Ronan and Ryan continued to snuff out any Mill Hill attacks.
On ten minutes Ryan managed to draw a foul to win a free kick when he was too clever for the Mill Hill midfielders. TNT took the free kick from just beyond the half way line and a high looping ball into the box found Donyal who smashed the ball past the keeper. 2 – 0.
Lammack continued to dominate the first half with very little getting through to Joe to deal with and the lads headed off at half time good value for their 2 – 0 lead.
The second half started and Lammack looked like they wouldn’t be happy unless they continued to add to their tally. Unfortunately today they found the Mill Hill keeper in sparkling form otherwise the final score could have been in double figures.
It took until the 25th minute for Lammack to find the net again. Paul, who was nursing a thigh injury at this point, provided a bit of midfield magic and fed a fabulous ball through to Oliver who was at the right hand corner of the box and blasted the ball across the keeper into the bottom left corner. 3 – 0. Just like watching Barcalona!
There was still fight left in the Mill Hill team and after some earlier fantastic defending by Ryan and Ben, Joe found himself in a one-on-one with the Mill Hill forward, as he came off his line the Lammack posse held their breath, but the big keeper pulled off a great save pushing the ball round the post to safety and the crowd breathed a sigh of relief. It looked like everyone was having a great game today.
A couple of minutes later more good work from Donyal and Paul forced a Mill Hill defender to put out his hand to stop the ball in the box - giving the ref his easiest decision of the day. Oliver stepped up, keen to complete his hat-trick and confidently smashed the ball into the net giving the keeper no chance. That’s the right way to take a penalty. 4 – 0. Despite the obvious nature of the handball the Mill Hill lads continued to surround the referee to contest the decision both before and after the penalty was taken. Why?
Lammack did not allow the Mill Hill histrionics to disrupt their game and concentrated on the job in hand. With a 4 goal cushion Justin felt able to be more fluid with the substitutions and Jude jogged on for a share of pitch time. He did really well when he came on fitting into the pace of the game right away, showing some nice touches and played a great ball through to Oliver five minutes before time which flew agonisingly wide.
To avoid Lammack becoming too gung-ho Justin played the last few minutes with Ben, Ronan and Ryan at the back in a defensive formation that looked comfortable for the step-up to nine-a-side next season.
The ref blew up and everyone went nuts – rightly so. This was a game that was won convincingly at a canter. Every lad who took to the pitch today was outstanding.
The win meant another three points to add to our tally for the season which left us as CHAMPIONS.... The 'Champagne' was opened and sprayed over the whole team Formula One style- I'm sure that everyone enjoyed and will remember and savour that moment for a long time to come. It was magical and it was well deserved. Well done to everyone who was involved this season - Justin, Richard, Dylan, Ben, Donyal, Joe, Joey, Jude, Mo, Oliver, Paul, Ronan, Ryan ,TNT and of course the vocal and loyal supporters.
Goalscorers: Oliver (3), Donyal
Man of the Match: Oliver
Next Season = Bigger pitches, bigger goals, bigger challenges – but as champions we’ll have the confidence to be up for it...
Signing off for the season – Soccer-Mom
Rossendale Valley Pumas 0 v 1 Lammack
Posted on 01/04/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
As it was 1st April we didn't want to be anyone's fools today.
The PMT (Pre Match Tension) was evident before kick off - Ben's dad David was an absentee due to being sick all night - presumably the nerves - and most of the parents who made the trip over the Grane Road confessed to having a touch of the Yips.
The warm-up went well and there was no evidence of nerves as the boys enjoyed the kick around - then we kicked off...
The early exchanges were a nervous affair, and the fact that three of the outfield players had played 6 games in 9 days in the recent humid conditions may have explained the lack of energy in the team.
Although there were shots from distance, none needed saving by the keeper and unusually for our Lammack team there were no runs into the box to get on the end of a cross or anyone following shots up. Evidence of a tired team at the end of a long season on a rock hard, uneven pitch.
RVP were not there to just make up numbers however, and it took a fantastic, perfectly-timed tackle in the box from Oliver racing back to prevent Joe being faced with a close-range shot.
Ronan and Ben paired up well at the back and saw off most of the RVP forays forward. Paul seemed to be charged with marshalling the massive RVP midfielder and came out on top of that battle keeping him quiet whilst still managing to make a positive contribution to the Lammack effort.
Joe didn't have a save to make all game and seems to have knocked out the kinks in his goal-kicks now. He did well not to send his kicks too far on this small pitch and had a great kick out of hands to TNT who latched on to the end of it, the ball sitting up nicely for him to take it on the half-volley - and was unlucky to see it whistle narrowly wide.
Just before half-time hard-working TNT was felled by one of a long line of clumsy challenges against him. He teed the ball up and the watching crowd held their breath, but the ball sailed over the bar and the nail-biting tension continued.
The lads trudged off at half-time with the score 0 - 0. They took on drinks as the bright, humid weather sapped the energy of the players as well as the watching family and friends.
A word that could be used to sum up the first half performance - 'lacklustre'.
The second half kicked off and all we wanted was a little bit of the usual Lammack magic to ease the nerves of the watching faithful. We were now kicking with the slight downhill slope and the sun would be behind us - surely this would help galvanise the tired legs for an important 20 minutes of football?
Step forward Oliver. His mesmerising runs have transfixed and bewitched opponents all season and today he decided to save most of the Ollie Magic until the second half. He picked the ball up in the middle of the park and took it towards the right wing, the ball sat up begging to be hit and so Oliver obliged and launched an unstoppable rocket into the net past the helpless keeper. 21 minutes on the clock. 0 - 1.
There was almost a full half left and such a slender lead never felt like it would be enough. Ryan came on for the impressive Ben at half-time and displayed the sort of desire and determination that had been missing from the team the first half. He got stuck in to tackles, chased down players in possession and added a sense of urgency to the game which had up till then just meandered along.
Even Ryan's enthusiasm could not lift a weary-looking Lammack team and the remainder of the half we were restricted to a number of half-chances where the ball went wide of the RVP post - Donyal worked hard and provided a shot for Oliver; TNT watched another free kick go the wrong side of the upright; a great throw from Paul found Oliver in space who swivelled and hit the ball on the volley - another great effort with the same result; just before the final whistle and after soaking up pressure from a couple of RVP corners, Joe kicked the ball upfield to Oliver who crossed it into the box, but it was agonisingly too high for Donyal.
The lads battled well and tried hard in a game that they had to win and a positive result was all that mattered. As the match was poised on a knife-edge throughout, it was difficult for Justin to change things and unfortunately super-subs Jude and Mo did not get any pitch-time today.
The ref blew up for full time and the relief was incredible. That was it. Second place guaranteed - with one more game left - against Mill Hill - to improve on that league position. However that game ends and whether Lammack finish as Champions or Runners Up in the League it has been an incredible season - games that we have won easily; games we haven't won - or drew - and will never understand why and games - like this one - where we have not played particularly well, but have dug in and ground out a result. Whatever happens in two weeks cannot make us more proud of their efforts or take the gloss off a season where we are still learning and improving. Bring on Mill Hill - we have nothing to lose!
Goalscorer: Oliver
Man of the Match: Donyal
Next Game: home against Mill Hill Blue, Sunday 15th April, 10am
Crown Paints Black 0 v 5 Lammack
Posted on 27/03/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
This was a game that Justin was desperate to win - not just because we need to keep the momentum of wins going until the end of the season but because he needed to restore family pride as his Lammack boys have been beaten in every previous meeting by Carol's cousin's team at Crown. They had become our Nemisis and today that had to change.
The backlog of fixtures caused by the bad weather over winter meant that this match had been rearranged and we found ourselves on the Witton Park pitches on a Tuesday evening in March - in bright sunshine.
The pre-match handshakes indicated the start of good sportsmanship for the game, but we know that these matches can become a bit tasty - especially when there is extra spice in the form of a must-win game and family pride is at stake.
The game kicked off with Lammack kicking up the slope. Justin had decided to tinker with the team a little and started with Ronan and Paul at the back, with the naturally attacking-minded Ryan in midfield. We had three subs to use if any of the boys showed signs of wilting in the heat - Crown had just seven players - no subs. If we played the game at a high tempo surely we would tire them out?
Crown had ideas of their own though and decided that they would set their stall out to attack from the off. After Oliver had seen a long range effort go just wide of the post after only two minutes Crown decided that the best form of defence was attack and a sustained period of pressure brought a good save from Joe.
Ronan's confidence seems to have grown over the last couple of weeks and he had a great run, taking the ball from defence down the right hand side of the pitch and forced a corner. This was just what the boys, Justin, Richard and the anxious watching Lammack support needed to calm their nerves and give them belief. Lammack continued to turn the screw and Donyal, Oliver, Ryan and TNT combined well, forcing corners and some desperate Crown defending.
Lammack were caught in attack mode when on ten minutes a Crown attack found Joe in a one v two situation. The crowd held their breath as it all seemed to happen in slow motion - it looked a certain goal. . . but no, Lammack's big stopper was up to the task today and made a brilliant save from point blank range after racing off his line. The Lammack contingent went nuts - the Crown support could not believe they hadn't scored.
This was a wake-up call to the boys to keep an eye on the dangerous Crown attack but also seemed to give them the confidence they'd get if Lammack had actually scored a goal.
Oliver had another long range effort which needed saving and produced a corner. As a result of continued pressure in and around the Crown box Lammack won a throw-in. Lammack's Rory Delap - Paul - launched a ball into the box which inexplicably the Crown defender leapt up and palmed away. The ref had no option but to point to the spot. Oliver stepped up and took a perfect pen - low and hard into the keeper's bottom right corner. 0 - 1.
Phew!
Lammack supporters' hearts were pounding and palms sweating. Watch the Premier League? No, this is entertainment!
Lammack continued to attack and just before half time they found themselves with Oliver TNT and Ryan with no-one else between them and the Crown goalie. Ryan had the ball on the right wing and cut inside, with his confidence high and looking to add to his goal tally for the season he decided to take the shot on himself and collapsed with his head in his hands as he watched the ball fly narrowly over the bar.
Moments later the ref blew up for half time and the boys were advised to take on more fluid in the humid conditions. With the score at only 0 - 1 anything could still happen and it was much too close for comfort for the watching support.
The lads came out for the second half in a more familiar formation. Midfield powerhouse Paul was moved forward from defence and Ben slotted in at the back with Ronan - with Ryan making way for now - after a good first half.
Lammack were now kicking down the slope and hoped to make this slight advantage count. It took just seven minutes of sustained pressure to increase our lead. A brilliant run from TNT saw him cruise down the wing and swing a dangerous cross into the box which Oliver couldn't connect with but which found Donyal sprinting in at the far post to smash the ball over the line. 0 - 2.
Crown are a determined group of lads and don't give up. Joe was still needed to make a couple more breathtaking saves to ensure that we maintained our lead and kept us in the market for a clean sheet.
From 34 minutes Lammack up the ante and the Crown lads struggled to cope with us in such sparkling form. Ronan and Paul worked well together and passed the ball through to TNT who smashed the ball past the helpless Crown keeper. 0 - 3.
A couple of minutes later unbeatable Ben threaded a super ball through to TNT who raced almost half the length of the pitch to beat the keeper again. 0 - 4.
In an almost carbon copy of the last goal - almost from the kick-off - Donyal found TNT free for him to race towards the Crown goal again to finish the game on a hat-trick. 0 - 5.
Crown changed their keeper, but to be honest it wouldn't have made a difference to the scoreline as Lammack were good value for their win today.
When choosing the Man of the Match award for the Lammack team the Crown manager said that it was difficult to choose between two players - keeper Joe for his outstanding saves and TNT for his hard work and great finishing for his hat-trick - which goes to show that even a win of 0 - 5 needs every lad to play their part. I believe that it was a close call between any of the players who took to the field - every lad had a good game today. All the subs were used and Mo was his usual reliable, tenacious self at right back. Jude also would be pleased to get some pitch-time and made a nuisance of himself up front when he came on.
This win means that if we beat Rossendale Valley Pumas next Sunday we will be guaranteed second spot. However we know that the Pumas are a tough team to beat and have had a decent run of results in the lead up to the end of the season so a win next week is anything but a foregone conclusion. The boys will need an early night before the game on Sunday, the supporters will need a supply of valium...
Goalscorers: Oliver, Donyal, TNT (3)
Man of the Match: TNT
Next Game: Away at Rossendale Valley Pumas, Sunday 1st April, 11am.
Stressy-Mum
Lammack 2 v 1 Rossendale United Lads
Posted on 24/03/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
This was the first of the remaining four must-win games of the season and felt like an early start after the clocks went forward overnight. The pre-match predictions from the assembled Lammack posse were positive despite being on the wrong end of a Rossendale mauling in the rarified air at altitude in the wilds of The Glen back in November.
The now routine pre-match handshake was enthusiastically observed by both sets of lads and we made sure that we kicked off attacking the Pleckgate school end goal first - all the signs were good - it couldn't be that easy could it?
As the game kicked off the pre-match optimism could have been questionned as Joe was called upon to make an excellent save - which Paul then cleared away to safety - after only two minutes.
Paul, Oliver, Donyal and TNT continued to combine well but, like last week, it looked like we needed to adjust our aim a little as balls flew agonisingly wide of the post or over the bar as Lammack peppered the RUL goal with shots. It seemed like it would only be a matter of time before we broke the deadlock...
Halftime arrived with the score inexplicably at 0 - 0.
Even the watching AFC Darwen manager couldn't believe that we'd not yet scored - though he must have been willing the ball NOT to go in for us as any points dropped by Lammack in our final four games would guarantee AFC were champions of the league - if they won their final game against the depleted Crown Paints Black later today.
The second half kicked off and the League's dark horses RUL, obviously gee-ed up by their manager's half-time pep talk, came out with renewed purpose. Justin, however is no slouch in the half-time team-talk line and the Lammack lads came out with a renewed belief and confidence and, as if to prove a point, on 25 minutes great work from T on the left ended with an inch perfect cross for Paul to ghost in at the back post and smash the ball into the net - giving the impressive RUL keeper no chance. 1 - 0.
The next five minutes proved right the addage that 'you're at your most vunerable when you've just scored' as Lammack came under pressure from RUL. Thankfully Ronan and Ben were on form and Joe was alert to make 2 fantastic saves in quick succession to dampen the RUL team spirits.
On the half hour a brilliant ball from Ronan (to add to his thunderbolt of a shot in the first half) found Oliver who weaved his way through the RUL defence and slotted the ball into the net past the despairing dive of the keeper. 2 - 0.
The bit of Ollie Magic allowed the now frazzled Lammack support to relax a little with a two goal cushion.
Great defending by Ben gave the watching family & friends belief that we would see the game out and probably add to our tally to ensure that the final score reflected the amount of possession and chances created by Lammack during the game.
A minute later the anxiety returned when RUL made the most of the Lammack boys' one lapse in concentration - comfortable with a two goal cushion and the clock ticking down they all forgot about defending and left Joe seriously outnumbered against the RUL onslaught as they pegged one goal back. 2 - 1.
With only a one goal cushion with 5 minutes to go when the ref plays an additional 3 minutes of extra time is definitely a no-no for anyone of a delicate disposition.
Lammack completely dominated the final exchanges and the oohs and aahs amongst the Lammack faithful continued until the final whistle as Oliver shot over the bar and then went close with another acrobatic overhead kick.
The RUL management were berating the referee when he didn't give them a corner in the dying seconds when everyone else watching could see that the ball clearly came off their player for a goal kick. Ronan's dad Michael politely reminded the ref on several occasions that we only played 20 minutes each way in this age group and he only felt compelled to blow up after Ryan had a speculative shot from the halfway line 4 minutes into 'time added on - the ref must have been enjoying the game!
To quote Jimmy Greaves football is 'a funny old game' and some games see you get what you deserve; in others a result has to be ground out when you are not playing so well and others see you inflict almost intolerable cruelty in the form of stress and anxiety on your loyal support. This was the latter and I think that most of the Lammack posse from this morning would have needed a lie down to recover from this game - ready for more of the same on Tuesday.
Goalscorers: Paul, Oliver
Man of the Match: Donyal
Next Game: Away to Crown Paints Black, Tuesday 27th March at 6.30pm at Witton.
Lammack 0 v 2 AFC Darwen
Posted on 18/03/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
This game was a real six pointer as AFC Darwen were looking to bounce back to the Yellow Division where they played last season. They were sitting proudly at the top of the League but importantly Lammack had games in hand..... anything was possible.
Before the kick-off the lads shook hands and then stood for a minute's silence for a young ref who had tragically died recently. The silence in the bright sunshine was broken only by birdsong which added to the tension.
Within a minute of the kick-off Joe was called into action as AFC showed that they meant business and were there to collect all three points. Lammack didn't seem to be able to get into gear today and their usual composure in front of goal appeared to have had a week off.
Despite some good hard work put in by the lads and close calls where the ball wouldn't fall for us, they had one of "those" days and AFC profitted from our bad luck. Their first goal was from a corner where a great ball came over and the AFC lad attempted to head it but the ball looped up off the top / back of his head and into the top left corner leaving Joe with no chance.
Lammack hit the bar with a finely hit shot from Donyal after a great tackle and pass from Paul. On the stroke of half-time Oliver went for a spectacular overhead kick from a TNT corner, but saw his shot go agonisingly wide.
After the break Ronan continued his sterling work at the back along with Ben and Ryan. Unfortunately mid way through the second period AFC capitalised when the Lammack lines were not cleared and they doubled their lead on 27 minutes.
Despite their best efforts Lammack were just not on it today. There was nothing that you could put your finger on - AFC were just the marginally better / luckier team on the day.
Lammack still have everything to play for but have a hard game next week at home to Rossendale United Lads - who beat us 4 - 1 at The Glen at the beginning of November. Hopefully we will chalk this one off as one of the ones that got away and look forward to our night at Ewood on Tuesday - where Rovers will give the boys some ideas about how to grind out a win.
Goalscorers: none
Man of the Match: Paul
Next Game: home to Rossendale United Lads, 10am Sunday 24th March.
Lammack 3 v 2 Hyndburn Youth
Posted on 04/03/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
This game was the return leg from our San Siro smoke experience earlier in the season and something about it felt all wrong from the off. Whether it was the drizzle and biting cold conditions, the fact that the opposition were physically bigger than each of our lads, the (done to be politically correct - but a very nice idea) pre-match handshakes or the decision to kick towards the Pleckgate rather than Lammack goals in the first half it felt like we were somehow out of kilter...
The initial signs looked promising as within 10 seconds of the kick off Donyal raced forwards and took a shot, which the Hyndburn keeper struggled to keep hold of and the ball went behind for a corner.
From the corner the Hyndburn lads broke at speed and their big forward bullied his way into keeping possession of the ball, sprinted towards the goal and left Joe with no chance in a one-on-one with a firmly taken shot into the bottom corner. 0 – 1.
On three minutes Hyndburn doubled their lead from an almost carbon copy of the first goal – Lammack pressing forward and left only one at the back to deal with the onrushing break from defence. 0 – 2 with only three minutes on the clock – the watching Lammack massive knew that the lads would need their support this morning to lift them.
Were Hyndburn going to profit by being quickest out of the blocks? Had they caught Lammack cold in the Arctic conditions? The next 38 minutes would be a test of the Lammack boys' guts and determination.
The remainder of the first half was played out at a fairly high tempo with the majority of the action in the Hyndburn half. Lammack didn’t seem to have shaken off their shooting hoo-doo from last week. It looked like we were still wearing our 50p shaped boots whenever we came to shoot, as the ball hit the Hyndburn keeper, hit the post or was dragged wide where in other games this season the lads would have gone in at half time each with a few goals under their belts. To their credit, despite the shaky start, when called on to defend none of the lads put a foot wrong for the remainder of the game.
The lads trudged off 0 – 2 down at half time with the cheers of the Hyndburn supporters ringing in their ears. I’m not sure whether they were aware that it was only half time, but I’m certain that they would have loved the game to have ended there.
Justin must have made an inspired team-talk as the lads came out with self-belief for the second half. Ben came off at half time having been given a torrid time by the big Hyndburn forward. After the first five minutes Ben and Ryan had the measure of the Hyndburn attack and cleared the ball from danger whenever they dared to enter the Lammack half.
From the kick off Lammack showed they meant business when Oliver fed a great ball through to TNT who shot just wide.
Ronan came on for the unlucky Ben at the back at half time and made an early impact with his dependable, no nonsense defending. He even managed to get a couple of long-range shots away from beyond the half way line using the wind to his advantage and remembering his time as a winger he beat a couple of players and found himself darting up the left side of the pitch and put in a useful cross into the box.
On 23 minutes a typically hard-working Paul saw a firmly struck free kick whistle agonisingly wide.
It felt like it just wasn’t going to be our day.
On 25 minutes a typically determined run from Oliver saw him accelerate towards the Hyndburn box beating defenders for fun before slipping the ball through to Donyal to beat the keeper at last. 1 – 2.
The nerves really started to become shredded now amongst the Lammack supporters and on 29 minutes when a fantastic kick out of his hands from Joe found TNT in a great position and he beat two defenders, rounded the keeper and hit the post when it seemed easier to pass the ball into the empty unguarded net - 99 times out of 100 Tom would have burst the net if he was in this position so you just had that feeling that it definitely wasn’t going to be our day!! No-one groaned or complained. It seemed inevitable that this would be how the afternoon was going to pan out and so the anxiety gave way to nervous hysteria.
The Lammack lads were blissfully unaware of the stress levels on the sidelines and continued to press forwards. On 31 minutes a TNT corner was headed wide by Donyal. Four minutes later Donyal took a corner with power and pace that Ryan turned just wide.
With just three minutes left on the clock Oliver set off on one of his mazy runs, beating Hyndburn players left and right before slotting the ball under the Hyndburn keeper. 2 – 2.
The pressure on the sidelines was becoming unbearable as Lammack continued to push for a win. A minute later Oliver set off again from the half way line and in an almost carbon copy of what had happened the minute before, broke the Hyndburn hearts with yet another classy solo goal. 3 – 2.
As the sidelines pressure cooker reached boiling point the Lammack support went mental, Justin and Michael – Ronan’s dad – could think of nothing more appropriate to do at that moment than to jump up and down hugging and screaming whereas Mansoor – Donyal’s dad – grabbed Mo’s dad and shook him violently, most of the watching Lammack support jumped up and down screaming. Embarrassing parents in abundance!
Sadly this was not the end of the drama. There was still time for the Hyndburn forward to sense a hat-trick as he powered forward, Joe was alert to the danger and charged off his line and put in a great challenge that cannoned off the Hyndburn lad for a goal kick. The Hyndburn forward stayed on the deck holding his ankle. The ref trotted over. The Hyndburn boys were calling for a penalty... The ref though had been perfectly positioned and was having none of the penalty claims – a perfectly timed and legal challenge was the verdict. There was a collective sigh of relief from the sidelines – it was a great save from Joe but with a young ref under a bit of pressure – you never know what can happen!
Surely that was it? No! A minute later the same forward got on the end of another through ball and powered forwards. Joe charged out again, but this time – obviously with the painful memory of his last challenge with the big Lammack stopper – the Hyndburn lad decided against taking him on and tried a shot from distance which he put wide of the right hand post – although I’m sure that Joe would say that he had it covered! Phew!
The goal kick was taken and the whistle blew for full time. The elation was almost overwhelming. Parents were walking around in an almost post-apocalyptic trance, heart pumping, pulse racing, hands shaking...
This really was a game of two halves with the good, the bad and the ugly on view with high drama and full-throttle action in evidence. All the boys played a part in a game that ran the full gamut of emotions. Eight boys got time on the pitch today and two boys – Jude and Mo – played an important role from the sidelines, roaring their team-mates on. They must have been greatly disappointed to miss out on an appearance today but hopefully they will understand that with things finely balanced until the last kick of the game Justin would have been reluctant to make a change. Their time will come.
Goalscorers: - Donyal, Oliver (2)
Man of the Match: - the opposition Manager awarded Joe the accolade this week for his important save at a vital time, but with no disrespect to Joe, Oliver must count himself unlucky as he was the odds-on favourite amongst the supporters for the award for his fabulous display today.
Next Game: - Away to Crown Paints Black, Sunday 11th March at Witton.
Roman Abramovich's Hatchet Man
Feni & Pleasington Blue 0 v 4 Lammack
Posted on 26/02/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
It'd been almost a month since our last game and this was our opportunity to try to get some points and improve our goal difference as today's opponents Feni & Pleasington Blue were propping up the league at the start of play.
Coming to the pitches after watching one of the day's earlier games between AFC Darwen and Blackburn United at Witton, Justin knew that a top of the table finish was going to be a hotly contested affair this year and any one from the current top five teams could take the title - this may, in part, explain the presence of our good luck charms Monsieur et Madame Cowel at today's game.
The match kicked off with Lammack as stand out favourites to win the game based on their opposing League positions and the last result between the two teams being 9 - 1 in Lammack's favour.
The referee grew tired of waiting for the previous game on the allocated pitch to finish and insisted that the game kicked off on the boggy, undulating practice area at the side of the main pitch. The F&PB Manager confessed that the sticky mud just outside the downfield box had often been called their eighth man.
As early as the first minute Lammack showed their intent with a shot from Paul that was smartly saved by the in-form F&PB keeper. From there on the game saw one-way traffic and F&PB found themselves camped out in their own box for much of the match.
It was a surprise that it took as long as it did to break the deadlock as shot after shot rained down on the F&PB goal. The F&PB keeper found himself in good positions to deal with the barrage of Lammack shots and even some of the Lammack lads managed to get in the way of goal-bound shots. Shots came from all over the pitch and Ronan joined in with a super, hard shot from his own half as TNT, Paul, Donyal & Oliver continued to apply pressure. On 15 minutes another great run from Oliver saw the ball fall to TNT who put in another fantastic cross that Donyal got on the end of to force the ball home. 0 – 1. What a relief!
The rest of the half saw the F&PB goal continuing under unbearable pressure but to their credit the Feni lads managed to get to half time with just a one goal deficit. Their manager must have been delighted with the effort from their boys and praise where it’s due they remained resolute and kept their heads up after conceding the goal.
Justin must have been impressed with the effort from the Lammack lads and thought that it was only a matter of time until the floodgates opened. In order to ensure that all the lads got some pitch time he continued with his policy of squad rotation and the impressive defensive pairing of Ben & Ronan were replaced with another great defensive partnership - Mo & Ryan - for the start of the second half.
The F&PB half time team talk and pride in their first half performance must have spurred on their team as Joe was called into action in the first minute, diving bravely at the feet of the attacker, the ball came loose and Paul was on hand to clear it off the line. Wow, that was an early wake-up call!
On 24 minutes Ryan could only quash his natural attacking tendencies for so long and set off on a great run from the back, combined nicely with Paul who threaded a lovely ball back to Ryan to cross to TNT who forced a good save from the keeper.
A minute later after a great attack yet another fantastic corner – this time from Donyal – went in off an unlucky F&PB defender. 0 – 2. A bit of breathing space – now let’s try and keep a clean sheet.
The Lammack tails were up and a minute later a goalkick fell to Donyal who played a great ball through to Oliver for him to run forward and attempt to chip the keeper only to see the ball go just over the crossbar. The F&PB goal continued to live a charmed life with more shots from Donyal and Paul until on 35 minutes a goalkick was controlled by Oliver on the halfway line, he ran swerving one way and another, beating three defenders with a combination of great dribbling, nutmegs and acceleration before coolly slotting the ball under the advancing keeper. Class! 0 – 3.
After a fantastic game Donyal made way for Jude as Ryan moved forward and Jude slotted in at rightback. On 36 minutes Jude made a great pass out of defence to Oliver who slotted the ball through to Paul who made a great run and found Ryan enjoying his more advanced role and fired the ball past the keeper. 0 – 4.
The game finished with the score at 0 – 4 which in some ways flattered F&PB as on another day and a better pitch their goals against total would have had more of a hammering. As it was the game was played in a good, competitive spirit and hopefully the Lammack lads will have got their shooting mojo back for the upcoming important hard games until the end of the season.
Goalscorers: - Donyal, OG, Oliver & Ryan
Man of the Match: - Donyal
Next Game: - Home to Hyndburn Youth, Sunday 4th March 10am.
Stuart Pearce’s Squeaky Bum cream
Blue Star Aces 2 v 4 Lammack
Posted on 29/01/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
With harsh frost over the weekend this game was moved from a 2pm kick off at Branch Road to an earlier start at Everton Fields. Despite the moving of the fixture on the Saturday it was still a surprise that the game was still on as the weather remained extra chilly.
The boys assembled at Everton sporting their new Lammack jackets and looked very professional as they warmed up. Justin was also debuting a new look and the watching Lammack support wondered how he managed to be sporting such a 'healthy glow' despite the dark and gloomy artic conditions that had hit the country over the last few weeks.
Lammack could not have ever had a better start to a game as they found themselves ahead within ten seconds of the kick off when Paul passed the ball forward to Oliver who did what he does best and ran towards defenders, jinked left & right and then fired the ball under the keeper into the bottom corner. 0 - 1.
The Lammack support could hardly believe their eyes as there were less than two minutes on the clock when another great pass from Paul found TNT who blasted the ball past the BSA keeper. 0 - 2.
This could potentially be a cricket score if we carried on like this!
Donyal continued in his typically determined, positive manner and was unlucky not to get himself on the scoresheet on a couple of occasions. He is a player that goes from box to box and bullies the opponents into mistakes that he can profit from and has been a great signing for the team.
Lammack continued to dominate the possession and with Ronan and Ryan having a confident game in defence the signs looked good for Lammack to bag themselves a few goals today.
On nine minutes, after a short spell of gutsy defending, Ronan cleared the ball forward to Paul who then linked the play between defence & attack and spotting Oliver's great run passed the ball so that Oliver took it in his stride and set off on another of his fabulous, tricky, jinking runs beating three or four defenders before passing the ball into the bottom right corner. 0 - 3.
BSA are a resolute bunch and do not give up. On 11 minutes it took a spectacular overhead-kick own goal from a BSA corner to beat Joe and ensure we would not have a clean sheet today. This was practically the first time that BSA had managed a decent attack. 1 - 3.
On 13 minutes the ball broke from the back and more good work from Paul saw him pass the ball to Donyal who unleashed a spectacular shot which was just kept out by the BSA keeper - the ball landed at the feet of Oliver who was the first to react and gratefully accepted the invitation to prod the ball into the net. 1 - 4.
Lammack now gained confidence from the margin between the scores and adopted a more gung-ho approach. After some uncharacteristicly scrappy Lammack defending, BSA crossed the ball into the box where two of their players waited unmarked to pass the ball into the net past Joe. 2 - 4.
There was just time right at the end of the half for Joe to make his first 'proper save' as BSA drew belief from their two goals.
The boys went off at half time with the 2 - 4 scoreline flattering BSA as Lammack had completely dominated the first half, even having a hand in both of their opposition's goals.
As the second half kicked off all the spectators were looking forward to the prospect of more goals. It seemed inconceivable that there would be no change to the scoreline based on the first half action - but that's what happened.
As the second half kicked off Just changed things at the back and Ronan & Ryan made way for Ben & Mo. This was no reflection on the first half defensive pair as they had played really well, both individually and as a unit - Ronan was determined and offered no-nonsense tackling and Ryan looks a classy wing-back offering an option going forwards. In the second half Mo put in his usual tenacious tackling defensive display and very little got past him. Ben had an immense game at the right of defence and completely bossed that area of the field. 'You'll never beat Ben Gillies, you'll never beat Ben Gillies' should be our shout going forwards as he reminded the Lammack faithful of the former England defender Des Walker.
Paul continued in his role as the dependable midfield powerhouse and was unlucky to see a thunderbolt shot go narrowly wide on 26 minutes after a typically determined run.
The attackers continued to plug away without profitting in the second half. On 30 minutes a fabulous corner from TNT was headed just wide by Oliver and a minute later a punt forward out of defence by Ben was latched onto by TNT who had a fantastic shot saved by the keeper after a great run.
TNT was withdrawn after a typically energetic display and replaced by Jude who looked lively as soon as he came on despite waiting for the nod for almost half an hour on the touchline in the sub-zero temperature. Jude was unlucky with a fierce shot that his dad was willing to go in (along with the rest of the Lammack posse) but in the back of his mind his dad may have been hoping it wouldn't nestle in the back of the net as before the game he'd promised a half streak across the pitch if Jude scored (he would definitely be on his own doing that!). Jude continued to make the most of his pitch time running the channels, making a nuisance of himself for the BSA defence and making himself available to his teammates.
Oliver continued to work hard and on 34 minutes he managed to dispatch yet another shot, this time one that he had engineered himself, but this time it whistled narrowly wide.
BSA showed great spirit in the frosty conditions and with no subs to add fresh legs to combat the heavy energy-sapping pitch they had a never-give-up attitude right until the ref blew up for the final whistle and Joe had to be alert to pull off a fantastic save from almost the last kick of the game.
This game was full of surprises from the fact that the game was going to be played at all to Justin's almost 'Dale Winton-esque' complexion to the unbelievably great start to the game to the fact that there wasn't another goal after half time. It all goes to show that it's a funny old game and you can never predict anything in football.
Goalscorers: - Oliver (3) and TNT
Man of the Match: - Donyal
Next Game: - Away v Crown Paints Black Sunday 5th February at Witton.
Harry Redknapp's nervous accountant.
Lammack 4 v 3 Blackburn United
Posted on 08/01/2012 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
A feeling of nervous anticipation prior to the first game of the New Year surrounded everyone associated with the Lammack team. As they had lost the previous three fixtures to the weather and this game was subject to an 8.30am pitch inspection, we weren't 100% sure that the match would be going ahead until the confirmation text was sent.
Blackburn United had achieved a good run of results recently and found themselves in second position in the League before the start of the game, with one point more than Lammack having played twice more. We knew that if we were to get any points from the fixture we were going to have to dig deep as this was going to be a tough game .
Joe was called into action as early as the first minute as Blackburn United showed that they were still the organised, aggressive, powerful unit that had forced a draw with us earlier in the season.
It was a nervy start by both teams as the action ebbed and flowed and although Lammack had the greater share of the possession nothing seemed to be going our way unti, lon 6 minutes, a fantastic corner from Donyal from the right was perfectly delivered onto TNT's head for him to direct it into the net. Like the watching Lammack Posse, Just was delighted - but gob-smacked that it was a header that broke the deadlock. 1 - 0.
After the goal Lammack seemed to gain in confidence and turned the pressure up on Blackburn United. On 8 minutes Ronan - who had an immense game in defence along with Ryan - pumped the ball forward to Paul, who played it perfectly into the path of Oliver who then brought a good save from the BU keeper.
On 12 minutes it was BU's turn to have a shot - this time from distance - but this time the ball went wide. Oliver had a strong run to win a corner a minute later and then the action switched to the other end of the pitch where Joe was called upon to make another good save. On 15 minutes Oliver had a strong run down the right which resulted in a corner and then a minute later one of his shots was handled in the box, giving the referee no option but to point to the spot. Oliver stepped up confidently and fired the ball into the back of the net. 2 - 0.
There was just enough time before the end of the half for Lammack to add another goal on 19 minutes when a perfectly weighted ball from Oliver fell beautifully for TNT to pass the ball past the BU keeper into the net. 3 - 0.
The boys went off at half time pleased with their performance, but football's a funny old game and there was a feeling that this game was a long way from over.
The second half began as a complete contrast to the first - the rain had started and the Lammack boys were now going to be kicking uphill into the wind.
With Justin's words reminding them not to become complacent and that the game was not won yet ringing in their ears the Lammack boys took their places back on the pitch. BU kicked off, weaved through the Lammack team and fired the ball low and hard into the bottom corner beyond Joe's despairing dive. 3 - 1.
The game had acquired an uncomfortable feeling as BU continued to press forward and within a minute of the restart Joe was having to make another smart save and then on 24 minutes the impressive BU number 7 shot into Joe's bottom left corner giving him no chance. 3 - 2.
How long's left? 16 minutes? OMG!
TNT tried to relieve the tension with a good run, but shot into the side netting.
On 25 minutes Paul played an inch perfect ball through to Oliver who rifled the ball into the back of the net to restore a slightly more comfortable cushion for the Lammack massive. 4 - 2.
The comfort zone lasted only one minute as BU pegged back the lead to just one goal to leave a nervous last 14 minutes. 4 - 3.
Justin made a couple of substitutions - Mo coming on for Ronan and Ben for Ryan - whilst these were big boots to fill the two boys who came on slotted straight into the team cold without the luxury of time to adapt to the pace of the game.
The remainder of the half was played out in nerve-jangling high tempo - Joe was called upon to make a number of important saves; Mo and Ben made some great interceptions clearing the ball from danger and Paul, Donyal, Oliver and TNT kept plugging away trying to be positive and increase the lead - nevertheless it was an uncomfortable watch for the spectators as a one goal lead never felt like it would be enough.
Unfortunately for Jude there wasn't an opportunity for Justin to swap him on today and so he remained an unused sub. I'm sure that he will get his chance next week however.
The ref blew his whistle and there was a collective sigh of relief from the Lammack side of the pitch as the game finished at 4 - 3.
This was a game played 'fresh' and although this wasn't Lammack's best performance of the season, it was one of their most important if they intend to vie for top spot at the end of the season.
Goalscorers: - Oliver (2) and TNT (2)
Man of the Match: - Joe
Next Game: - Away v Feni & Pleasington Blue Sunday 15th January 12 noon Feniscowles Memorial Ground.
The Re-Emerging Sian Massey
Hyndburn Youth 2 v 3 Lammack
Posted on 27/11/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
This morning's setting looked like a poor man's San Siro stadium - there was smoke drifting mancingly across the pitch and raucous, fanatic home support baying for the opposition's blood. All that was missing was some idiot setting a flare off nearby in the middle of the spectators and as Hyndburn's manager was proudly wearing a Burnley hat the smart money was on him.
After looking at the League positions of the two teams you would be forgiven for assuming that this would be an easy game for Lammack - but there is no such thing as a foregone conclusion in football.
Lammack started off where they finished last week - pressing forward looking for goalscoring opportunities. It was still only the first minute of the game when Paul was presented with the chance to have a crack at goal with a free kick from 20 yards. He took a run up and launched a goal-bound cannonball - which TNT did well to duck underneath - that took a small deflection off a Hyndburn defender and still almost burst the net. 0 - 1.
Although Lammack seemed to retain the lion's share of the possession Hyndburn were by no means a push-over and Ben and Mo had to be alert and on top form to ensure that Lammack kept ahead.
TNT had a great afternoon - had a strong run down the left but shot into the side netting; he chipped a cute pass to Oliver who had his shot well saved by the keeper; he crossed over another great ball to Oliver who went for a spectacular overhead kick but once again the Hyndburn keeper was up to the task.
On 10 minutes Lammack were undone at the back from a throw-in when a high cross / shot came over which Joe was unable to get enough on to divert away from goal but his fingertips put a wicked spin on the ball which prevented Ronan from stopping the ball crossing the line with his desperate lunge. 1 - 1.
This was not how this game was supposed to go! The remainder of the game was a tense affair with the spectators' nerves frayed and even the comforting presence of Monsieur & Madame Good Luck Charms did not feel enough to give the loyal support confidence.
Paul continued to show how influential he is when he is on his mettle and on a number of occasions throughout the game he showed his strength and took players on, dancing through the deperate defensive lunges before unleashing a decent shot. Immense!
The boys headed off at half time with honours even and manager Just looking like he could not believe the difference between the way his team played in the first half this week and last. Would he manage to lift them to perform at their best again... and what was it with that smoke? What had started off as an atmospheric talking point was now seen as an evil conspiracy - we all kept nervously glancing over to the grassy knoll expecting a sniper to take someone down...
The second half started with the boys in bullish mood. The ever impressive Oliver and TNT combined in the 21st minute - dancing through the Hyndburn defence as if they weren't there and forced the ball into the net via the underside of the bar by tomorrow's birthday boy TNT. 1 - 2.
Surely we would kick on from here and rack up a big score? Wouldn't we?
Hyndburn had other ideas though and a minute later Joe had to be alert as a long range effort was smartly saved by our other birthday boy of the weekend. However Hyndburn equalised again a couple of minutes later when they were quickest to react to the rebound from another great save from Joe and stabbed the ball into the net. 2 - 2.
Almost from the kick-off Paul watched as another of his well-taken free kicks went agonisingly just over the bar. Great passing play from TNT, Oliver and Donyal ended with Oliver's shot just inches too high and left the Lammack support enjoying the entertainment - but wondering whether this game may be another of the ones that got away...
On 27 minutes a short Hyndburn goalkick was cleverly intercepted by Oliver who did what he does best and ran at the defence with the ball at his feet and showed what a great finisher he is as he tucked the ball away to restore the Lammack lead. 2 - 3.
The rest of the game was played out with the watching adults anxious about the slender lead, however Ronan and Ryan remained resolute at the back and Ryan still had enough confidence to try rampaging forward to join the attackers.
On 34 minutes Oliver tried another eye-catching overhead kick which brought a good save from the Hyndburn keeper.
All the boys played better in the second half and their fighting spirit was demonstrated by Donyal who ran practically the full length of the pitch to track back and put in a well-timed defensive challenge in the box to stop a shot coming from the Hyndburn winger - the ball went out of play off their player for a Lammack goal-kick. He also managed a shot a couple of minutes later that went narrowly wide. Brilliant!
Jude came on at the high-pressure end of the game and put in some good challenges ensuring that the Lammack lead was preserved. There was time for just one more shot from Oli before the final whistle blew.
There were a couple of candidates for Man of the Match today - notably the spectators' choices Paul and Oliver - however the Hyndburn vote went to someone who perhaps reflected the way that they felt the game had gone for them.
The second half Lammack performance was destinctly better than their first. This was another game where we started slowly but I think that we didn't give the opposition enough respect before the kick off and were taken aback when they were significantly better than their lowly League position suggested.
Next Sunday we have the opportunity to show Hyndburn a Lammack team who are quick out of the traps and hit the ground running from the kick-off.
Hot off the press: - After a Sunday afternoon scouting mission Justin has signed up his mum Jackie as cover for Joe.
Happy Birthday Joe & TNT.
RIP Gary Speed.
Goalscorers: - Paul, TNT, Oliver
Man of the Match: - Joe
Next Game: - Home to Hyndburn Youth, Sunday 4th December 10am
Jackie's Football Agent
Feniscowles & Pleasington Green 2 v 6 Lammack
Posted on 20/11/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
It was an early start as the boys were first up for the photo-shoot in the November morning mist on QEGS fields before today's away game at Feni.
This extra early start suited some of the boys better than others as Joe's dad had an exasperated last minute dash back across town to Lammack - in what must have been a DeLorean - to deliver his goalie gloves left at the photo shoot in a screech of brakes and cloud of dust seconds before the kick off.
Unusually for Lammack we started the brightest - perhaps due to our extra early start - and it was a surprise that F&PG lasted as long as 6 minutes before conceding the first goal due to our total dominance of the game. Oliver set the standard with the opener - he intercepted a goal kick, cleverly controlled the ball in one movement, took a few steps and vollied the ball into the top left corner of the goal, leaving the F&PG keeper with no chance. Spectacular! 0 - 1.
Almost from the kick off we scored our second - after some great work from Paul who shimmied through the F&PG defence and brought a great save from the keeper, he then picked up the rebound and - keeping the move alive - crossed for Donyal to poke the ball into the net. 0 - 2.
Lammack continued to press and dominate in what has to be their best half of football so far this season - attack after relentless attack saw F&PG pinned back into their own half for most of the first period. Good efforts from TNT, Oli, Paul & Donyal peppered the F&PG goal yet there was still defending to be done as F&PG tried to reduce the deficit, but they found Ronan & Ryan resolute at the back.
On 16 minutes Donyal made another of his great runs on the left and slipped the ball through to TNT who cut in and fired the ball into the net. 0 - 3.
Within a minute, the same pair had combined again. Donyal had a good run and shot which was parried by the F&PG keeper, but only as far as TNT who shot low and hard under the advancing stopper. 0 - 4.
Just before half time we lost the ball and the impressive F&PG number 3 took the ball up the pitch and slotted it under the advancing Joe. 1 - 4.
No clean sheet today then.
There was just time for Paul to bring out another good save from the F&PG keeper before the ref blew his whistle for half time.
The lads went over to Just for the team talk happy with their performance and the crowd were delighted with the first half entertainment and were looking forward to more.
Despite a new look formation for the second half that saw Ben and Jude in defence and Mo up front, Lammack's attacking play continued to steamroller the F&PG defence. On 22 minutes the lively Mo had a cheeky chip that was just saved by the F&PG keeper. Paul had a great run and shot that went narrowly wide on 25 minutes as Lammack and their new formation looked to increase their tally.
Lammack didn't have everything their own way though and a minute later Joe needed to pull off a great save to dampen the F&PG spirits. Lammack profitted from the save on 28 minutes as Donyal slipped a slide rule ball through to Mo who went off on a great run, dancing through the F&PG defence and then blasted the ball into the net. 1 - 5.
F&PG are fighters though and Ben & Jude were needed to be on hand to clear away the danger which they they did ably - fighting like terriers and digging deep when it was needed to clear the lines. Unfortunately, some great work from F&PG brought another great save from Joe, but their attacker was quickest to react with Joe stranded and scored the rebound. 2 - 5.
The excitement for the Lammack support was not over yet though and after having a shot saved by the keeper a few moments before, Ryan made sure on 38 minutes - confidently tucking away a lovely pass from TNT. 2 - 6.
The game finished and although the result was great, the score flattered F&PG as Lammack had totally dominated every area of the pitch.
It is important to remember that F&PG are a team that are no push-overs having battled for a draw with Mill Hill only three weeks ago. Every lad who took to the pitch for Lammack today played out of their socks and put in a great shift for the team. If we were able to play like this for the remainder of the season we will not get beaten too often - especially if Monsieur Cowell continues to make guest appearances. I hope that he enjoyed the performance - and the result - on his 24th (?) birthday. A Lucky French charm? - the evidence would certainly seem to suggest this is true...
Goalscorers: - Oli, Donyal, TNT (2), Mo, Ryan
Man of the Match: - TNT
Next Game: - away at Foxhill Bank v Hyndburn Youth, Sunday 27th November, 11.15am
Sepp Blatter's overworked 'foot in mouth' removal expert.
Mill Hill Blue 2 v 3 Lammack
Posted on 13/11/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
Boy was this ever a game of two halves!?!?
Back at Witton - where we have not been lucky so far this season - the boys were taking on one of the League's other front-runners, the unbeaten Mill Hill Blue.
The game would be played in typically autumn weather - cold, damp, grey conditions and a heavy Witton pitch. Thankfully our lucky charms - Monsieur et Madame Cowell - had returned to the Mother Land to support their favourite team so despite the depressing conditions there was a glimmer of hope for a result before kick-off.
The first five minutes of the game saw some resolute Lammack defending as we started off under the cosh. Ronan, Ben and Joe worked hard in defence and managed to hold on until the sixth minute when some good work from Mill Hill saw Joe rightly come off his line to narrow the angle but their forward coolly fired the ball into the back of the net. 1 - 0.
On 9 minutes some great work by Oliver on the right saw him beat 3 players and send over a fantastic cross for Donyal to fire just wide. It seemed like Lammack had left their shooting boots at home again.
The salt was rubbed into the wounds on 15 minutes when a Mill Hill corner beat Ronan at the near post, and then went through Joe's legs as he was just behind him and the ball trickled over the line. If it wasn't a goal against us it would have been quite funny - frankly looking at Just's face I could tell that he wasn't amused!! 2 - 0.
Half time came and the boys trudged off for the teamtalk 2 - 0 down.
I'm not sure exactly what Just said to the boys but they came out with a determination and after only moments it seemed apparent that they were getting their mojo back.
On 26 minutes after some great Lammack passing the ball was switched over to Paul on the right hand side. Captain Paul seemed in bullish mood and surged up the wing, cut inside and launched a venomous shot that soared into the top left corner of the goal, giving the Mill Hill keeper absolutely no chance. At about half way through the season that has to be a contender for spectacular individual goal of the season. 2 - 1.
This goal seemed to lift the whole team and offer them and the travelling support the belief that Lammack might actually be able to get something from this game.
The game continued to ebb and flow but the balance of play was starting to swing the way of the boys in blue and on 29 minutes a great effort from Oli was flapped at rather than saved by the Mill Hill keeper and Donyal was on hand on the line to prod the ball into the net with the keeper all at sea. 2 - 2.
The fightback was definitely ON!
With Lammack in the ascendancy Mill Hill started to resort to the sort of tactics that are more commonly associated with WWF. The referee was having to give the pea in his whistle some hammer as the Mill Hill boys started to sense that the game was slipping away from them.
Oli, TNT, Paul and Donyal seemed to be having fun at last and developed a great sense of where each other were. The Mill Hill lads had no answers for the relentless Lammack attacks. Surely it was only a matter of time before we scored again...
Then on 34 minutes Mill Hill showed that they were not push overs as they launched an attack which brought a great save from Joe ( compensation for the second Mill Hill goal debacle in the first half?). This kept Lammack in the game.
The crowd thought that Just had lost the plot when he took Ben off in the first half (this was the best that Ben had played all season) and replaced him with Ryan at Left Back. This was shown to be an inspired substitution as Ryan played a blinder in the unfamiliar position and late on - at 2- 2 - he took off Ronan - who'd also had a great game - and replaced him with Mo at right back - Mo was amazing, harrying and hussling the Mill Hill lads, giving them no time on the ball at all - brilliant!
On 35 minutes after a great run TNT got the goal we were waiting for with a fantastic cross / shot that beat the keeper. The Lammack massive went nuts and the Mill Hill support who had been bullying the ref and questioning each decision went suddenly quiet. A-May-Zing!! 2 - 3.
The game was not over yet. There was still plenty of defending to do and the temptation of possibly more goals to come. On 38 minutes Ryan surged out of defence and having seen the other lads profitting from just going for it took a shot and was unlucky to see it going just wide.
There was one more scare to come as the Mill Hill number 7 controlled the ball beat the defence, sent Joe the wrong way and inexplicably dragged the ball wide of an empty net.... phew!
The ref blew his whistle and Lammack were delirious and Mill Hill disbelieving. What a game! What a difference between the two halves.
All of the boys who took to the pitch were amazing today. With a little luck this will have restored any sagging confidence and reminded them that they are a good team who play well together and for each other.
Just must have said magic words to the lads at half time to facilitate the stunning turn around. If you don't believe in magic - just in case - don't let those French 'Lucky Charm' visitors leave.
Goalscorers: Paul, Donyal, TNT
Man Of The Match: Captain Fantastic - Paul
Next Game: Feniscowles & Pleasington Green (venue & time to be confirmed) Sunday 20th November.
Harry Redknapp's Tax Inspector
Rossendale United Lads 4 v 1 Lammack
Posted on 06/11/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
Oh no!
Today's game was at the League's most remote ground with great views of the Rossendale Valley and surrounding countryside. The day provided glorious autumnal weather but it was RUL that started brightest.
With only one minute on the clock the signs looked good for Lammack when Oliver went close with an excellent volley that shaved a coat of paint off the bar. Seconds later their defence was breached for the first time with an excellent run and finish from RUL's big forward as he smashed the ball into the top corner past Joe who had no chance. 1 - 0.
RUL showed that they were used to the conditions of their sloping field that had patches where the ball appeared to be absorbed by the turf rather than bouncing. This made the pitch heavy and seemed to sap the energy out of the Lammack boys' legs from the kick off.
On 8 minutes Joe was called upon to make three outstanding saves in quick succession from breakaway RUL attacks. This allowed Oliver to do his thing a minute later when he vollied just wide.
With only ten minutes gone Lammack found themselves 2 - 0 down but continued to fight. Ronan and Paul at the back worked hard to try to snuff out the relentless RUL attacks, but without too much support from the other lads who were trying hard to attack to get back into the game. TNT had some good runs and shots without really troubling the RUL keeper.
Half time arrived and Ronan's dad Michael was relieved to hand over the linesman's flag after a tense difference of opinion with the novice referee about the duties he should be performing on the line.
The second half kicked off and Lammack started brightly. Ryan - on for Ben - made a great run and got on the end of an excellent ball from Oliver and forced a super save from the RUL keeper.
On 26 minutes a fantastic clearance upfield from the halfway line from Paul flew like a bullet towards the goal and then dipped and squirmed under the keeper to bring Lammack right back into the game. 2 - 1.
RUL obviously only saw this as something to spur them on and their impressive front two struck again twice to leave Lammack reeling at 4 - 1.
Despite the team's ability to work the ball up the pitch into the final third their coolness in front of goal and incisiveness in the danger area seemed to have left them again. For the second week the Lammack boys peppered the opposition's goal -with shots from TNT, Ryan, Oliver, Ben, Jude and debutant Donyal going just over or wide, perhaps they had next year's larger goals in their sights and had we been playing with these today I'm sure that Lammack would have been runaway winners of this game.
In summary, this was a game that ebbed and flowed but RUL showed more composure in front of goal today and gave Lammack a lesson in clinical finishing. I am sure that this and 'defending as a unit' will be something that Just & Graham will be working on in training.
Goalscorer: Paul
Man of the Match: Donyal on debut
Next Game: away at Witton Park v Mill Hill, Sunday 13th November, 11am
Apologies for the late posting due to birthday celebrations and urgent business with a new client.
Frankie Cocozza's PR Officer
Lammack 2 v 5 Crown Paints Black
Posted on 30/10/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
Today was a Halloween Horror Show.
The winning bubble was burst by Crown Paints Black as Lammack put in a lacklustre performance which resulted in their first league defeat of the season.
In truth if any of the first half efforts had been converted this could have been a very different result as Lammack dominated the first half, having the lion's share of possession and shots - with chances falling to Oliver, Paul, Ryan and TNT, and the defence of Ben, Ronan and Joe did little wrong yet they all trudged off at half time 0 - 2 down.
The second half kicked off with Lammack determined to improve and get a foothold in the game. Almost from the kick-off Paul, Oliver and TNT combined well again with the ball going agonisingly wide of the post.
Another excellent corner from TNT on 21 minutes - but no-one managed to make contact and the ball went out for a throw-in. It looked like it was going to be one of 'those' days today.
On 28 minutes TNT played a great ball through to Paul who stabbed the ball into the net leaving the keeper with no chance. 1 - 2. Could this be the start of the fightback that we were expecting and hoping for?
Disaster! Crown made the most of Lammack's gung-ho approach to the game and walzed around the depleted defence to stick two goals in as many minutes into the back of the net on 32 & 33 minutes. 1 - 4.
Lammack carried on resolutely and another great cross into the box from TNT fell to Mo whose shot was parried by the Crown keeper but only as far as Paul who made sure this time with a powerful net-buster. 2 - 4.
Unfortunately Lammack were still in celebration / attack mode and almost from the kick-off the impressive Crown number 7 surged up the pitch and skipped past a last man's lunge from the hard-working Ronan and slotted the ball past Joe's desperate dive into the bottom corner. 2 - 5. Even Jude's appearance later in the game could not lift the side and the boys left the pitch with the bitter taste of defeat in their mouths.
Today Lammack seemed to have lost their sparkle and were made to pay for their inability to stick the ball in the net when it mattered. The first league defeat of the season will surely bring a reality check for the boys and leave them with a feeling that they will not be keen to repeat.
Justin has been thinking ahead and has made another signing, possibly with one eye on the larger squad that will be needed for next season. Donyal will be joining them in training on Tuesday and I'm sure that the lads will make him feel very welcome.
Hopefully Justin will be able to motivate the boys in training during the week so that they get their mojo back for next week's big game so that normal service can be resumed.
Goalscorer: Paul (2)
Man of the Match: TNT
Next Game: rearranged fixture away at The Glen v Rossendale United Lads, Sunday 6th November, 11am
The Bride of Frankenstein.
Darwen Rangers Blue 0 v 2 Lammack
Posted on 23/10/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
Today's match was a nervy affair from the kick-off until the final whistle. On a pitch that was no bigger than a subbuteo game's playing area the Lammack boys were obviously feeling cramped at their hosts' facilities.
The first half saw the Lammack team struggling to cope with the tiny, undulating pitch whilst the home team obviously saw this as a chance to capitalise whilst the visitors came to terms with the less than perfect conditions.
DRB were unlucky on a couple of occasions as the woodwork came to our rescue as - according to their manager - they played their best football of the season so far. Lammack looked anything but a team that were top of the table as they struggled to adapt to the playing conditions.
TNT and Oliver were their usual tenacious selves in attack as Lammack attempted to get a foothold in the game as the action started to switch from end to end and we started to grow in confidence. With Mo and Ben supporting in attack Lammack started to increase their possession and look dangerous.
Just before half time there was a nasty looking injury to Ben. The ref stopped the game and Ben's mum Joanna (after a 'shall I go? shan't I go?' comedy moment) ran on to the pitch looking concerned. Thankfully Ben was just winded after putting himself in the way of a hefty clearance from DRB but he still left the pitch like an injured gladiator leaving the battle arena. Ryan replaced the unlucky Ben and looked menacing up front without managing to get on the scoresheet today.
The half time whistle blew and surprisingly - mainly due to the woodwork, some poor finishing and a particularly good save from Joe - the score was still 0 - 0.
In the second half Lammack were kicking uphill into the wind but started more brightly. On only 22 minutes Oliver had a great shot that he blasted just wide. Four minutes later a fabulous corner from TNT was vollied past the helpless DRB keeper by Oliver who wheeled away doing somersaults obviously delighted with breaking Lammack's duck. 0 - 1.
Only five minutes later, after panicky defending in the DRB defence, the ball ricocheted off both posts and trickled over the line. As the player who got the last touch for Lammack, the goal was given to Mo. 0 - 2.
Jude came on and quickly had a great shot that was bravely saved by the in-form DRB keeper otherwise he could have joined Mo and Oliver in scoring two goals in two games.
Looking back, DRB and Lammack could and should have scored more goals today. The real stars of the show were the two defences - especially Lammack's who manfully managed their second shut-out of the season (both of these against Darwen Rangers Blue). Ronan and the out-of-position Paul were immense today, closing down the advancing DRB attacks and playing the ball away out of the danger area.
The game ended with the score at 0 - 2. This is a game that Lammack won without playing well. On this performance Justin will instill into the team that no game is a formality and being top of the league does not give you the right to a win over opposition further down the table.
Justin did the right thing in choosing to give up his season ticket at Old Trafford to watch the Lammack boys - as Manchester United were comprehensively beaten by their City neighbours this afternoon.
Goalscorers: - Oliver, Mo
Man of the Match: - TNT
Next Game: - Home - Crown Paints Black - Sunday, 30th October, 10am
Gaddafi's (Now Out of Work) Press Officer
Lammack 4 v 1 Blue Star
Posted on 16/10/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
After yesterday's glorious summery weather was replaced with this morning's more traditional Autumn fayre of dull, depressing drizzle there was only one result that would get Justin's birthday celebrations underway.
The opening exchanges saw Lammack pushed back in their own half. With Paul and Ronan dealing easily with the best that Blue Star could throw at them there should have been a confidence amongst the Lammack support - but this rarely comes until the team have a few goals under their belt and so the nerves persisted.
After soaking up the early pressure Lammack started to apply some of their own and in truth bossed the majority of the game. There was some great passing from the boys which didn’t get the goals that their approach play deserved. Ryan shot narrowly wide and Oliver had a good shot saved by the keeper.
Lammack continued to turn the screw as the pressure looked sure to end in a goal – Oliver intercepted a goal kick and picked out a great pass to TNT who played Ryan through in the box but the shot went agonisingly wide. Ryan, Oliver, TNT and Ben (enjoying his more advanced midfield role today and playing with a head injury after an incident caused by hi-jinks after too many E numbers in a party tea yesterday) all went close in the next few minutes without really troubling the Blue Star keeper.
On 13 minutes the deadlock was broken as Ryan played a peach of a ball through to Oliver who smashed the ball into the back of the net. 1 – 0.
Blue Star are a determined, experienced bunch and were never going to just give up and so the remainder of the first half saw some great defending by Ronan and Paul and brought a good save from Joe on 18 minutes – who had very little to do this week.
The boys went off at half time 1 - 0 up but this could have been a handful if we had had a little bit of luck in front of goal.
We had barely kicked off again when a fantastic TNT corner was headed by Oliver and rifled into the bottom corner by Mo – on for Ben in a half-time change by the birthday boy - what a great finish with practically his first touch of the game. As he wheeled away to celebrate the Lammack section of the crowd went nuts - delighted as for him as he scored his debut goal for the club. 2 – 0.
With a two goal cushion the boys played further up the pitch with the hope of adding to their tally. This left Ronan and Paul exposed on a number of occasions as they were outnumbered by the Blue Star forwards. On 26 minutes a dubious free kick was awarded to Blue Star on the edge of the Lammack box which Joe managed to tip over the bar. Between Lammack attacks Blue Star continued pressing and on 30 minutes after a good block from Joe and ping-pong football in the box Blue Star managed to prod the ball over the line. Surely Blue Star weren't here to spoil the party were they? 2 – 1.
A quick reply on 33 minutes saw a typically good run and shot from TNT blocked by the Blue Star keeper - the ball rebounded to TNT who did not need any invitation to blast the ball into the net to restore the two goal advantage. 3 – 1.
A couple of minutes later when the Lammack support had barely calmed down they were getting themselves into a lather again. Jude – on for Ryan – took a great ball and cut inside from the right wing and, spotting the keeper coming off his line to close him down took the shot early and fired low and hard into the bottom corner. What a fabulous finish, the crowd went nuts again (especially Jude's Dad who went mental) – everyone delighted for Jude and admiring his Messi-like finishing for his debut goal. 4– 1.
The game finished a few minutes later and this was another great result for Justin and the boys.
Well Justin, what a difference a year makes – this time last year the boys were at the bottom of the league and struggling in this division against teams with more experience - now we are unbeaten at the top of the league with more points than the 18 we amassed during the whole of last season; this time last year you were worried about putting the subs on – today both boys who came on as a sub scored within moments of coming on the pitch; this time last season you had a group of boys who turned up and kicked a football around – now you have a squad of players who have gelled together as a team.
Well done Justin. Happy Birthday from all the lads and parents!
Goalscorers: - Oliver, Mo, TNT, Jude
Man of the Match: - Oliver
Next Game: - Away – Darwen Rangers Blue – Sandy Lane – Sunday 23rd October, 2.15pm
Hughie Green
Rossendale United Lads P v P Lammack
Posted on 09/10/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
Match postponed due to waterlogged pitch at The Glen.
Fixture to be rearranged.
Next game: - Home v Blue Star - Sunday 16th October 10am
Lammack 9 v 1 Feni & Pleasington Blue
Posted on 02/10/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
10am Old Blacks
With the visiting French football dignatories Monsieur et Madame Cowell delaying their journey home in order to fit in one further scouting mission at the Old Blacks, Lammack decided to send them off with a match to remember with their own brand of 'Zidane-Style Football'.
In a great reply to last week's disappointing Cup exit the boys put on a powerful display of team football. From the off Lammack dominated the play, and an early goal from Ryan was ruled out for handball as early as two minutes into the game.
Attack after attack was thwarted by an on-form F&PB keeper and some desperate last ditch defending. Lammack broke their duck on 6 minutes when an excellent corner from TNT proved too good for the defence and the ball was glanced into the net off a F&PB head. 1 - 0.
On 10 minutes Joe's long goal kick found Oliver who passed the ball wide to TNT who put in a pin point cross for Ryan to fire the ball past the stranded keeper and open his account for the club. 2 - 0.
A couple of minutes later Oliver intercepted a goal kick and with a solo run jinked and turned past the F&PB defence and calmly slotted the ball past the advancing keeper. 3 - 0.
A minute later and the score was 4 - 0 as Oliver scored again but the best goal of the game came on 16 minutes when Joe's long kick was brought down by TNT who then put Oliver through in the box who in turn unselfishly squared the ball for Ryan to grab his second of the game.
At half time the boys went off happy with their performance and with a 5 goal advantage. Justin decided that he could give Jude and Mo a full half to show him what they could do and so rotated the rest of the outfield players throughout the second period.
The second half started well as Oliver scored in the opening minute to take the score to 6 - 0, however on 27 minutes the F&PB number 4 - who had an excellent game - took the ball from his own half, dribbled past the Lammack lads and smashed the ball into the net. 6 - 1.
This was a bit of a wake up call for Lammack who were reminded just how hard it is to keep a clean sheet in this league.
In an almost immediate response from the kick off TNT took the ball upfield and perfectly executed a cheeky chip over the advancing keeper. 7 - 1.
Ryan scored a couple more goals on 34 and 35 minutes - the latter from a fabulous cross from Paul after a strong run on the right. 9 - 1. Paul was unlucky with the last kick of the game which was a long-range free kick which agonisingly clipped the corner of the post & crossbar.
This was a resounding victory and although the goalscorers often take the plaudits every boy played his part in this victory. In addtion to the lads who got on the scoresheet - who were clinical in front of goal today - Joe had little to do for once but played some good long balls forward. Ronan was back to his best in defence after his forced sabbatical last week. He showed some deft touches when asked to play further forward and even managed to get a good long-range shot away. Paul started the game in defence with Ronan and together they were organised and snuffed out any F&PB attack that dared to enter their part of the pitch. In the second half Paul was asked to play a more attacking role and fired in some great crosses and venomous shots and was unlucky not to get himself on the scoresheet today. Ben played in a more advanced role today and seemed to enjoy the freedom to intercept the ball and rampage forward with it, playing intellegent passes through to the danger areas whilst still remembering how to defend when it was needed. Jude had another solid, determined display in defence, his speed, tough tackling and strong clearances away from danger turning defence into attack showing why he was trusted to be the lone defender at corners. Mo is another player who - despite being small in stature - has a big heart and always plays a full part in the team when on the pitch - he tackled back, played intelligent passes and linked well with his teammates, including some effective one-twos.
Hopefully the new French branch of the Lammack Under 10s Blue Supporters' Club will have fond memories of their most recent trip back to the mother land and will keep up to date with their favourite team via the weekly online report. Nous espérons vous revoir bientôt.
As we wish the French Foreign Legion 'Bon Voyage' we will be on our travels ourselves again next week at Rossendale United Lads where hopefully there will be no repeat of last year's magical mystery tour around the the valley.
Goalscorers: Ryan (4), Oliver (3), TNT
Man of The Match: Ronan
Next Game: away at The Glen (OL13 0PF) v Rossendale United Lads, Sunday 9th October, 11am.
David Ginola - because we're worth it!
CUP:- Lammack 1 v 7 Crown Paints Gold
Posted on 25/09/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
10am Old Blacks
We'll use the old addage '....we can concentrate on the League now'. This morning was a distraction from the league for a week as we pitted our wits against a team two divisions above where we play.
It felt as though we had barely kicked off and found ourselves 0 - 4 down from four breakaway attacks by Crown. To rub salt into the wounds, these goals were scored whilst Crown only had six players on the pitch. When their latecomer joined the game Lammack played better defensively and didn't concede any further goals and made their way off at half-time with their heads down.
After an obviously inspiring half-time team talk from Just, the second half set off more brightly with Lammack going close with chances falling to Ryan - who made a lively debut - TNT, Oliver and Joey. On 26 minutes a glimmer of hope as TNT intercepted a goal kick and, spotting a great run from Oliver, played a slide-rule pass which allowed him to jink past a couple of players and coolly slot the ball past the advancing keeper. 1 - 4.
Sadly from there to the end of the game Crown upped the ante again and Lammack were restricted to a handful of half-chances, Crown running out 1 - 7 deserving winners.
Lammack played well in parts this morning and especially when they showed steel and determination when challenging for the ball. At other times when Crown broke quickly, the Lammack defence was left exposed and were often left with Paul - deputising for the unavailable Ronan - and Ben against an advancing attack of four. Mo & Jude came on in the second half and although they were unable to change the result they slotted into the team seamlessly. This morning felt like Lammack had another gear that they could not quite get into - but if they had, the game would have been closer fought and we could have netted more goals too.
We can write off the Cup for this year and I'm sure that this is a game that our boys will want to forget quickly, but there is still plenty to play for in the League and hopefully next week's game will set us back to winning ways and restore the team's confidence.
Goalscorer: Oliver
Man of the Match: Joe
Next Game: Home - Feni & Pleasington Blue - Sunday 2nd October, 10am.
Journo-Mum
Blackburn United 2 v 2 Lammack
Posted on 18/09/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
11am Witton Park
Nothing went as planned today. The forecasted torrential downpour did not materialise and on paper Lammack should have won this game at a canter. Although the boys were not complacent it shows that you cannot predict which team will turn up when you are against a new and emerging team on their home ground.
The game kicked off and after early exchanges it became apparent that the boys were going to be in for a tough afternoon. The pitch was bigger than average, they played with a bigger ball than the usual 'Size 4', the Blackburn United team looked organised and some of their challenges were a bit tasty & showed they meant business.
After just four minutes TNT whipped in a fantastic corner and Oliver tried a Rooney-esk overhead kick. Unfortunately the ball spooned over the bar. On six minutes Ronan made an interception at the back and decided to take the ball forwards himself. He jinked and turned before releasing Oliver with a peach of a ball for Oliver to put in a decent cross / shot and TNT to stab the ball into the net. 0 - 1.
On 12 minutes Ronan made another of many interceptions of the afternoon and found Oliver with a brilliant pin-point ball for Oliver to do what he does best - forge forwards, beat defenders and slot the ball past the keeper. 0 - 2.
Almost from the kick off Lammack were caught napping and the United boys pushed their way practically straight through the middle of the park unchallenged and beat Joe with a low hard shot into the bottom corner. 1 - 2.
On 16 minutes Paul played a clever ball through to Joey who volleyed just wide. The rest of the half saw Lammack attack after Lammack attack thwarted by some determined United defending which meant that we never managed to test their keeper.
The boys trudged off at half time a goal up but with better finishing could have been three or four goals to the good.
The second half kicked off in a similar fashion. Lots of endeavour and great passing without the end result. As the half progressed and there was only one goal in it the United boys still had hope of getting something from the game and the Lammack team & support remained nervous. Although Mo was introduced for Joey at half time Just & Dylan found it dificult to make too many changes as the game was finely balanced and so Jude was unlucky not to get a run out today.
On 22 minutes Oliver shot narrowly wide and then Paul had a neat 1-2 with TNT and again the resulting shot was just wide.
Lammack did not have it all their own way and a dangerous United attack brought a good save from Joe on 26 minutes.
Continued Lammack pressure saw Oliver shoot just wide on 30 minutes; Paul made a great run from defence to ghost in at the back post and attack another brilliant corner - from Joey this time - but blasted wide on 31 mins; another fantastic corner from TNT saw Oliver's second attempted overhead kick of the afternoon fire over.
It felt like it was not going to be Lammack's afternoon and on 37 minutes the frustration was complete as the United boys pushed forward again. They swerved in from their left wing to the edge of the Lammack box and had a shot that was low and hard. Joe went down to cover the ball, but it took a wicked deviation from a divot and bounced up and over the stranded keeper . 2 - 2.
The ref blew up at full time and it felt like we had lost the game. In truth a draw was probably a fair result. Blackburn United had a keeper who looked nervous and inexperienced and Lammack did not exploit this weak link. Other than the two Lammack goals their keeper did not have one shot that was on target to test him. Today was a day when we left our shooting boots at home. Blackburn United gave us a masterclass in getting bodies behind the ball and defending and attacking as a pack. When we were attacking they got all seven players behind the ball and crowded our players out. When they were going forwards they broke quickly and were soon attacking with four against our back two of Ben & Ronan.
It's a good job that Ronan and Ben (and Paul when he was moved to the back towards the end) had a good game. Ben was his usual cool, unflappable self and Ronan was absolutely immense today. He was fired up for this game and played as though his life depended on it. He was all over the back, putting in important tackles & interceptions and played the ball forward finding a player in a Blue & Red shirt - and getting himself two assists for the Lammack goals. Definitely the supporters' Man of the Match this week.
I'm sure that there are a few things that Just & Dylan will want to work on in training as a result of this game. Some of the boys looked a little heavy-legged, possibly as the additional midweek games (and some have also had school team trials) have made them a little stale. From now on we are back to just one game a week and so the lads should be able to freshen up and recharge their batteries ready for the next challenge - the cup tie next Sunday. Bring it on!
Goalscorers: TNT, Oliver
Man of the Match: Oliver
Next Game: Cup - home v Crown Paints Gold, Sunday 25th September, 10am
Your Hack in a Mac.
Lammack 5 v 1 Feniscowles & Pleasington Green
Posted on 13/09/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
6.30pm Old Blacks
With the tail end of Hurricane Katia gusting across the Mini Pitches the Lammack boys made heavy weather of this game.
Once again they conceded an early goal, going behind with just two minutes on the clock. An early F&PG attack saw the ball bobble & get mis-hit, catch the wind and sail over Joe's head in an exaggerated lob. 0 - 1.
Oh no, it wasn't going to be one of those games was it?
The remainder of the game saw the F&PG lads camped out in their penalty area as they tried to stifle any Lammack attacks by ensuring there was no room to pass or shoot in the box.
On seven minutes Paul had a great shot that went narrowly wide, then Oliver shot just over after a typically determined run from midfield.
After one goal kick the F&PG boys ventured out of their own half to put an attack together and forced a good save from Joe on ten minutes.
The remainder of the first half saw shots from TNT, Oliver, Paul and Joey as the F&PG goal led a charmed life.
The half time whistle blew and unbelievably the score was still 0 - 1.
What on earth could Justin say or do to give the team the lift that they desperately needed and deserved?
The second half - kicking with the wind - started in the same manner as the first half had finished - with Lammack in attack, attack, attack mode. There were shots from all the lads up front which were just over (curse the wind), just wide (curse the wind again) hit the post, hit the bar, hit the keeper...
With Dylan away on 'Stag' duties Justin was having to do all the shouting and at times there were fears that he would spontaneously combust with all the great Lammack pressure only resulting in near misses. The clock was ticking and Feni were holding on.
Surely Lammack couldn't lose this - could they?
On 27 minutes another great throw from Paul (think Rory Delap) found Oliver in the box, who smashed the ball past the F&PG keeper. 1 - 1.
The crowd went nuts as the lads couldn't wait to get back to start their next attack from the kick-off. More agonising minutes of total Lammack dominance without any reward until there were only seven minutes left on the clock when Lammack managed to take the lead from a great interception from Ronan, who threaded a lovely ball through to Oliver to set up TNT to force the ball into the net. 2 - 1.
Almost from the kick off the ball was pushed forwards to TNT at the left side of the box who scored into the right-hand top corner with an absolute rocket. 3 - 1.
This prompted the F&PG lads to have to come out and attack to chase the game. With no subs and having had to withstand an enormous amount of pressure throughout the game there were some very tired legs in their team and as a result they struggled to get back and defend as their attacks were snuffed out by Ronan, Ben, Jude and Mo.
On 35 minutes Joe was still alert enough - after having virtually nothing to do all half - to pull off a top save to deny F&PG a sniff of getting back into the game.
A minute later, after a trademark mazy, run Oliver put in a great cross for TNT to slot the ball into the net. 4 - 1. After another minute TNT scored again to leave the score at 5 - 1.
The scoreline, whilst impressive, does not emphasise Lammack's total dominance of the game. On another day, Paul, Oliver, TNT and Joey could all have bagged themselves a hat-trick. Ronan and Ben look to have built a really solid partnership at the back and in Jude and Mo the team has two players who can confidently step into any of a number of positions on the pitch, maintain the standard of play and create pressure to push for a place in the starting seven.
The future's bright, the future's red & blue striped.
Goalscorers: Oliver, TNT (4)
Man Of The Match: Paul
Next Game: away at Witton against Blackburn United - Sunday 18th September, 11am.
Lammack's Motty.
Lammack 5 v 1 Rossendale Valley Pumas
Posted on 11/09/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
11.00am Old Blacks
The last match against the Pumas was a real nail-biter that ended in a draw. This is a new season - and hopefully a new and improved Lammack team - so after checking the stats from this season so far for the Pumas and with two wins out of two under their belt Lammack went into this game with confidence.
The boys from both sides gathered at the centre of the pitch to observe a minute's silence before the start of the game - held on the 10th Anniversary of the 9/11 atrocities. The Lammack boys were still paying their repects as they kicked off as Pumas intercepted the ball and after a couple of neat passing exchanges slotted the ball into the Lammack net after about twenty seconds.
That was definitely not the start we wanted or expected but the boys and the Lammack support have a steely resolve built over last year's testing debut season and did not let a little thing like going behind in the first half a minute shake their belief that this was a game that they could - and would - win.
On 5 minutes, from one of the outstanding corners that were knocked in by TNT throughout the game, Oliver smashed the ball into the net and the score was level.
The boys' confidence lifted again and after a great run out of defence on 11 minutes Paul crossed a great ball into the box which TNT put narrowly wide.
Lammack had the bit between their teeth now and a minute later Oliver dodged and weaved his way through the Pumas' midfield and defence and showed a cool head to fire the ball calmly past the keeper. 2 - 1.
Another minute passed and after some great play from the Lammack boys they created enough pressure to force another corner. TNT put in another great corner - this time with enough bend to work with the wind and beat the Pumas keeper at his near post. 3 - 1.
Pumas, however are a determined side and put together some dangerous passes - enough to keep the defence on their toes and ensure that Paul & Joey had to put a shift in tracking back to help out when necessary.
Half time came with the score at 3 - 1 but it didn't feel like this would be enough with the potential threat of the Pumas who would be kicking with the wind in the second half.
The second half kicked off with Pumas determined to reduce the deficit and for the next 15 minutes they used the conditions to their advantage - however Ben and Ronan continued to boss the defensive area of the field, with very little making its way through for Joe to deal with.
On 35 minutes Oliver gathered the ball in the centre of midfield, spotted Joey making a brilliant run into the box, played a perfect ball through for Joey to slot the ball past the keeper at the back post. 4 -1.
Two minutes later Ronan made a great interception at the back and played a lovely ball forwards to Oliver who managed to find Joey in a great position to fire the ball into the net again. 5 - 1.
The game finished with every boy who'd been on the pitch having had a great game. This was by no means an easy game. Pumas were tough opponents who put in some tasty challenges and continued to compete in all areas of the pitch throughout the game.
Joe had no chance with the goal and did enough with the few balls that came through to him to ensure that there were no more goals for the Pumas in the game. Ronan worked hard in defence winning tackles & headers and playing the ball forwards to his teammates with a no nonsense approach. Ben had a good game, managing to read the play well, take the ball coolly from the Pumas forwards and play it calmly to form the start of a Lammack attack. Ben was replaced by Jude during the second half where he carried on his good work and played with his usual confidence, clearing the danger and getting in great challenges. Joey started on the left side of midfield and went off just before half time after a heavy challenge from a Pumas player, but returned at the end of the second half to strike twice and given more time looked a cert to get his first hat-trick for the club. Another player who was on course for a hat-trick was Oliver who gave a masterclass in attacking from midfield - scoring two and unselfishly setting up countless other chances. Paul had a great game with a relentless work rate and willingness to support his teammates at both ends of the pitch. Mo came on to replace the injured Joey in the unfamiliar left side of midfield position, but settled into his stride in no time and looked really comfortable in the more advanced position. He linked the play from the back to attack and remembered his previous defensive duties helping out in defence when Pumas had a period of pressure. TNT had his usual lively game leading the attack and the quality of his corners and other set pieces was first class.
Goalscorers: Oliver (2), Joey (2) TNT
Man Of The Match: TNT
Next Game: Feniscowles & Pleasington Green - rearranged to be at home 6.30pm Tuesday 13th Sept
Your Team Reporter
Lammack 4 v 0 Darwen Rangers Blue
Posted on 06/09/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
6.30pm Old Blacks
An unchanged squad and a return to typical wintery weather brought a familiar feel to this first home game of the season.
With a gale-force wind behind them in the first half and kicking slightly downhill towards the Pleckgate School End, the ball took on a life of its own.
The boys had a dream start after Oliver nodded in a pin-point corner from TNT after only one minute. How they got to half time without adding to their tally will remain a mystery as the Darwen team camped out in their penalty area and even Joe almost scored from his goal kicks as the Darwen keeper understandably struggled to get hold of the ball in the wind.
After half-time the boys knew that the ball would hold up for them as they kicked slightly uphill into the wind - equally Darwen were aware that for them a big punt upfield could pay dividends as the ball moved wickedly in the air like a Jabulani at last year's World Cup.
On 29 minutes a good period of pressure ended for Darwen when their onrushing attacker put the crossed ball wide of the post when it looked easier to score. Oliver got on the end of Joe's goal kick just over the half way line, weaved his way past the desperate lunges of the Darwen defence and calmly slotted the ball home on 30 minutes. He burst the net again a minute later to give Lammack some breathing space.
The heart & spirit of the Darwen team was broken 3 minutes from time when a TNT corner was deflected past the keeper by their defender on the near post and the game finished with the score at 4-0.
Again, all of the lads played their part in the victory and there were a few candidates for Man Of The Match - Ronan, Ben & Mo kept it tight at the back; Jude, our 'Marquee Signing' & Joey's workrate in the centre of the pitch was first class; Oliver was his outstanding best grabbing himself a hat-trick - but the Darwen Manager nominated TNT for his workrate, dribbling, passing and brilliant corners. For once Joe had virtually nothing to do and got his first clean sheet (hopefully the first of many) of the season under his belt.
After two games Lammack now sit joint top of the League - third due to goal difference - and so they will be looking forward to being ruthless in front of goal & target more clean sheets to continue their great start to the season.
Goalscorers: Oliver (3), TNT
Man of the Match: TNT
Next game - home to Rossendale Valley Pumas - Sunday 11th September, 10am.
Your Local Sports Reporter.
AFC Darwen 1 v 2 Lammack
Posted on 04/09/2011 by Justin Nixon-Taylor
11.15am Everton Playing Fields
The first game of the season for any team in any league is filled with hope and expectation and Lammack are no different.
Unusually for a game at Everton the sun was shining and the game was allocated one of the better new young referees. All the signs looked good - the team were buoyed with some new signings and anticipation and excitement amongst the Lammack supporters was at nervous fever pitch.
AFC Darwen were an unknown quantity having been relegated from the league above at the end of last season. Had they lost or added players to the previous squad? There was no homework that Justin & Dylan could do on this team and so Lammack could only play and adapt as the game progressed. Justin had named a squad including some new players and it was time to see how they would fit into the team after impressing in training.
The boys looked up for it at kick off after their team-building huddle before the start. The early exchanges saw the ball holding up in the long grass which naturally slowed the pace of the game which was to Darwen's advantage, although Lammack were kicking with the slope.
On 3 minutes TNT had one of his trademark strong, jinking runs and shot just wide - this opened the floodgates as the Darwen goal was peppered with shots from the Lammack lads looking for a strong start to the game. On 7 minutes Joey had a shot that brought a great save from the Darwen keeper.
Darwen however, were fully involved in the game as the action went from end to end and on 8 minutes a great move and pass saw them slot the ball in at the back post.
The Lammack response was quick and decisive - one of the new boys took a long-range shot which looked bound for the top corner, but the Darwen keeper just managed to palm it out - only for Oliver to fire the ball home from close range to level the scores. The remainder of the first half was played out at a high tempo with great passing given the condition of the pitch was more suited to grazing for cattle.
The first half ended with honours even and both sides were applauded off by their supporters. Both team talks must have been centred around the same thing - ''more of the same please lads - we just need a bit of luck & we can win this''.
The second half continued in the same manner - the ball going from end to end, shots whistling just wide, great defending, terrific keeping, mazy runs. The ball would break to a Darwen attacker who would shoot just wide or be tackled or have their shot saved or blocked to groans from the Darwen faithful and sighs of relief from the Lammack supporters and then the tide would turn and it would be our turn to be saying 'ooooooohhhhhhhh' as the ball refused to go into the net.
With the clock ticking down both managers kept asking for details of time remaining - the Darwen manager rotating subs presumably to use up a bit of the time left. Darwen had another attack which the Lammack supporters watched through their fingers fearing an agonising last minute heartbreak, but the defence stood firm and the ball was cleared forwards and a shot went narrowly wide. The referee had the whistle to her lips as the Darwen keeper took the goal kick which then fell to Oliver - he raced forwards knowing this could be the last chance and calmly fired the ball into the back of the net. Agony for the Darwen posse but ecstacy for the Lammack support who went completely nuts. There was only time for Darwen to take the kick off before the whistle was blown for full-time. Talk about cutting it fine!!
Joe had no chance with the first half goal and looked determined that he would not be beaten again today - pulling off a number of great saves & blocks; Ben always looked calm under pressure & he managed to play the ball out of defence with a quiet assurance; Ronan is growing into his role as a no nonsense defender and today he showed both his quality in the tackle and when playing the ball forwards; TNT was his usual skillful yet tenacious self battling away in the final third and despite not quite getting on the scoresheet did plenty to terrify the Darwen defence; Oliver looked a class act with his ability to ghost past opponents, find the killer pass and get a wicked shot away - he was deserving of his goals today; Jude came on in the second half to replace Joey and did really well - his best game yet - he was tigerish in the tackle and was unlucky to see his well hit shot came back off the bar with the keeper beaten; the new boys all had excellent debuts for Lammack - Joey had an amazing first half with great tackles & runs and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet; Mo filled in well for Ben at right-back and was not put off tackling the Darwen attacker who was almost twice his size and what can be said about our final debutant? - I think that we're all glad that he's playing for us rather than against us - he tackles, makes great runs & passes and is almost impossible to knock off the ball plus he can make & score goals - what a signing!
The AFC Darwen manager awarded the Man of The Match to keeper Joe - but any of the lads who played today could easily have walked off with the accolade. This was truly a great team performance and showed a group of lads who have a brilliant spirit and work ethic for each other.
For a neutral this game had everything that is good about Under 10's football - a game played in a good spirit - encouraged & insisted upon by both managers. Sadly there were no impartial observers watching today but if there had been they would be eagerly buying a ticket for the next game with the hope of 'more of the same'. As a supporter, nails were bitten to the nub and nerves were in shreds by the end of the game - is this good for you? No, obviously not, but surely if you took a straw poll of the supporters at the game today there really is no better way to spend a Sunday morning - although today's game probably had most reaching for a glass / bottle of something as soon as they got home to calm the nerves!
Goalscorers: Oliver (2)
Man of the Match: Joe
Next game - home to Darwen Rangers Blue - Tuesday 6th September, 6.30pm.
(A request to the lads to try to win any future games more convincingly to prevent a supply of blood-pressure pills being required for the supporters!!)
By Your Reporter On The Touchline