Ok - you are probably thinking when was the first time it turned out nice, but there have been perks in the history of TP, even though the result today wasn't one of the perks.
However, going through to the next round of the cup - massive perk!
The talk before the game was all about getting thrugh to the next round so that we could play 2 more games of football this season in the Quarters. To do that, a win would guaruntee TP being in the hat for the next round.
Going with the same formation that got the first leg win, the personnel did change, with Club Captain Helm returning to the fold and Nick reverting back to centre midfield.
But the most important factor in the game was a natural one - a week of rain! The Flats were in the poorest condition TP had ever seen them - it is fair to say that pigs would have been happier with the conditions!
But regardless, the game began and from the start the referee was quick on the whistle to prevent any serious injury. It wasnt going to be a game where any team could get a rhytm going and TP certainly weren't going to be able to repeat the good football that made them so dangerous in the first leg. And this caused TP problems.
ELT are a good team, and the last encounter was the first we had won and scored in - ELT wanted to avenge this and did with an early goal. ELT took advantage further and went 2-0 and 3-0 up before...
TP knew that a 2-0 down they were out of the cup, so the oranges (now in a new colour kit of mud brown!) began to up the ante. Pressure was now in the ELT half and a half clearance from the blues fell to Jesse - a player that in the early stages of his TP career told the coach he couldn't attack. Jesse picked up the ball in the ELT half from left back and surged forward into space. Seemingly unwisely, he took the ball inside onto his right foot, fooling us all into thinking any chance had passed. But with a swing of his right boot from 20yds the ball was buried in the far corner!
Hope sprung up in the TP ranks - one more goal would put us through on away goals but, not for the lack of trying, it didnt come.
A mad dash to the changing rooms at the full-time whistle to dry off and warm up Bear Grylls style ensued before word started to spead that TP may have been the 'best' loser behind Ecclesia or Harmony - the two teams being in the unenviable position of playing extra time.
It was a close call, but it was true - TP, by Jesse's one goal - were through to the Quarters.
Team:
S. Speroni;
D. Passfield, J. Helm (c), S. Balogun (T. Lindsay), J. Middleweek (1);
A. Aryanpour, C. Lindsay, N. Speroni;
N. Field, G. Goodhew (D. Spinola), F. Lindsay
Unused Sub:
C. Agbabiaka
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
No question - Jesse Middleweek - solid at the back, relished the conditions and scored a belter!
Sunday, 14 December 2008
Wednesday, 3 December 2008
As Magic as the FA Cup?
TP arrive at Wanstead Flats on the back of three 'almost' games. Confidence is higher than it has been for quite some time and the general feeling is that we can get a result here. ELT have beaten us already this season and are confident of repeating the dose, but the sheer number of attacks, shots and possession we have had in recent games lead us to believe its really on.
Starting with a flat back four, five man midfield and Nick on his own up front we quickly take the game to ELT and go a goal up early on with a great goal from Daniel - a left footed drive that flew in off of the post.
A few minutes of quite brilliant TP possession and attacks (with shots freely flowing from our central midfield of Calvin, Dan and Arsan) then ELT score a beauty against the run of play with a direct ball over the top to the player Dave Hambridge had in is pocket in the last meeting.
Unlike the season so far there are no verbals or blaming and TP go about resuming the assault on the opposition. The major reason for the lack of complaints is that it was just a very good goal. Alternatively, the coach never contemplated the scorer running cross field at speed and finishing so well - either way, the problem was rectified at half-time and the threat was shepherded across the pitch and onto his less favoured foot in the second half. We went in at half time 2 - 1 up thanks to smart work all round and a good finish by Arsan.
From the side you see so many things that you miss if you're playing. For instance; Jessie had a long and dangerous run from in his own half up to the opposition penalty area. Instead of looking for the killer pass for a shot on goal Ferris moved wide left, taking his marker and creating more space and choices for Jessie. Hardly anyone would have noticed Arsan filling in at left back while Dan tracked Jessie in parallel (if needed) and Calvin held back to cover midfield in case ELT got possession and broke. I make this point because everyone on the side saw how good we can play as a team when we're supporting each other. There were several other examples of really good teamwork which created shooting chances and the team needed no half-time adjustment.
Half time cheese was taken in good spirits and we jogged out. Early in the second half Darryl, who had started the game carrying an injury was replaced by Nat who almost scored immediately. Confidence was running high and some of the passing and moving was better than we'd produced all season. Nick started with the remains of a severe chest infection but glared at the coach when asked if he was fit to carry on fifteen minutes into the second half. Everyone was keen to continue but things were changing.
ELT attacked with more wounded pride than planning but our shape began to deconstruct. The discipline (and lungs) that kept the team going forward or back as a unit for the first hour faded with increasingly large gaps forming in the space between back four and midfield. From the side it was clear that new legs were needed but everyone was playing well. In particular Sam B had his best showing as Ian's partner at centre back - covering when needed, organising, communicating calmly and sensibly and even winning a free kick at the end of a typical mazy twenty yard "come-on-i'll-take-you-all" run.
It was at this stage that one of ELT's decreasing number of attacks caught us in a one-on-one chase after one of their forwards latched onto a ball over the top. Sam R and the forward made contact (after the forward had lost control of the ball and shinned it to our keeper Steve) and Sam was booked. Despite having a solid game Sam was soon substituted as the opposition management prepared a substitution to throw another attacker on with the intention of exploiting a full back on a yellow card. Colin picked up the pace immediately and the back line coped with what came their way.
Legs were starting to slow and as Gareth warmed up to replace Ferris on the attacking left side of midfield the game changed. A third goal by Ferris seemed to deflate them temporarily, then they threw two players up to form a four man attack with their most dangerous centre forward, Paul, playing along the line behind the front three. Our organisation at corners was inadequate and eventually they scored a second. By this time the play was pretty much end to end but we dug in and did enough in the last seven minutes to hold on for a satisfying victory.
In two weeks time we take on the same team in the return. They will be wounded and better prepared. We will be the away team and will work on defending and attacking set pieces before the match. We have turned a corner and it was a pleasure to watch from the side. Special mention must be made to all squad members who came and cheered and didn't get on - we're a team who support each other and that showed on and off the pitch. It was an exciting match to watch but I hope the return is a more clinical, less stressful affair for those of us who stand on the side and cheer you folks on -Well Done All (Editors note: but it's only half time!)
Team:
S. Speroni;
S. Ranthe (C. Agbabiaka), I. Howard, S. Balogun, J. Middleweek;
A. Aryanpour (1), C. Lindsay, D. Spinola (1);
D. Passfield (N. Field), N. Speroni (c), F. Lindsay (1) (G. Goodhew);
Unused Substitutes:
M. Okolie, F. Dooknah
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
...to follow...
Blog Writer: T. Lindsay
Starting with a flat back four, five man midfield and Nick on his own up front we quickly take the game to ELT and go a goal up early on with a great goal from Daniel - a left footed drive that flew in off of the post.
A few minutes of quite brilliant TP possession and attacks (with shots freely flowing from our central midfield of Calvin, Dan and Arsan) then ELT score a beauty against the run of play with a direct ball over the top to the player Dave Hambridge had in is pocket in the last meeting.
Unlike the season so far there are no verbals or blaming and TP go about resuming the assault on the opposition. The major reason for the lack of complaints is that it was just a very good goal. Alternatively, the coach never contemplated the scorer running cross field at speed and finishing so well - either way, the problem was rectified at half-time and the threat was shepherded across the pitch and onto his less favoured foot in the second half. We went in at half time 2 - 1 up thanks to smart work all round and a good finish by Arsan.
From the side you see so many things that you miss if you're playing. For instance; Jessie had a long and dangerous run from in his own half up to the opposition penalty area. Instead of looking for the killer pass for a shot on goal Ferris moved wide left, taking his marker and creating more space and choices for Jessie. Hardly anyone would have noticed Arsan filling in at left back while Dan tracked Jessie in parallel (if needed) and Calvin held back to cover midfield in case ELT got possession and broke. I make this point because everyone on the side saw how good we can play as a team when we're supporting each other. There were several other examples of really good teamwork which created shooting chances and the team needed no half-time adjustment.
Half time cheese was taken in good spirits and we jogged out. Early in the second half Darryl, who had started the game carrying an injury was replaced by Nat who almost scored immediately. Confidence was running high and some of the passing and moving was better than we'd produced all season. Nick started with the remains of a severe chest infection but glared at the coach when asked if he was fit to carry on fifteen minutes into the second half. Everyone was keen to continue but things were changing.
ELT attacked with more wounded pride than planning but our shape began to deconstruct. The discipline (and lungs) that kept the team going forward or back as a unit for the first hour faded with increasingly large gaps forming in the space between back four and midfield. From the side it was clear that new legs were needed but everyone was playing well. In particular Sam B had his best showing as Ian's partner at centre back - covering when needed, organising, communicating calmly and sensibly and even winning a free kick at the end of a typical mazy twenty yard "come-on-i'll-take-you-all" run.
It was at this stage that one of ELT's decreasing number of attacks caught us in a one-on-one chase after one of their forwards latched onto a ball over the top. Sam R and the forward made contact (after the forward had lost control of the ball and shinned it to our keeper Steve) and Sam was booked. Despite having a solid game Sam was soon substituted as the opposition management prepared a substitution to throw another attacker on with the intention of exploiting a full back on a yellow card. Colin picked up the pace immediately and the back line coped with what came their way.
Legs were starting to slow and as Gareth warmed up to replace Ferris on the attacking left side of midfield the game changed. A third goal by Ferris seemed to deflate them temporarily, then they threw two players up to form a four man attack with their most dangerous centre forward, Paul, playing along the line behind the front three. Our organisation at corners was inadequate and eventually they scored a second. By this time the play was pretty much end to end but we dug in and did enough in the last seven minutes to hold on for a satisfying victory.
In two weeks time we take on the same team in the return. They will be wounded and better prepared. We will be the away team and will work on defending and attacking set pieces before the match. We have turned a corner and it was a pleasure to watch from the side. Special mention must be made to all squad members who came and cheered and didn't get on - we're a team who support each other and that showed on and off the pitch. It was an exciting match to watch but I hope the return is a more clinical, less stressful affair for those of us who stand on the side and cheer you folks on -Well Done All (Editors note: but it's only half time!)
Team:
S. Speroni;
S. Ranthe (C. Agbabiaka), I. Howard, S. Balogun, J. Middleweek;
A. Aryanpour (1), C. Lindsay, D. Spinola (1);
D. Passfield (N. Field), N. Speroni (c), F. Lindsay (1) (G. Goodhew);
Unused Substitutes:
M. Okolie, F. Dooknah
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
...to follow...
Blog Writer: T. Lindsay
Saturday, 22 November 2008
Huffing and Puffing
Coming off the back of narrow 1-0 defeat against a strong Enfield side, there were high hopes going into the game against All Nations.
With the same hope we had at this time last season, a win against another struggling team would have boosted morale and confidence.
The Green Giant was missing for this game, allowing new signing Paul Howard the opportunity for his debut behind the centre back pairing of the Gaffer and his 'assistant'. Sam Balogun was given a more creative role in a wide left position, proving that yet another TP player is as versatile as something thats versatile!
Coach Nick dragged himself out of his man-flu death bed to be the eyes on the side - unfortunately there was no voice to go with it!
The game kicked of and the Wanstead Wind made an apperance for the game, making it hard for TP to mount any sustained pressue on All Nations. Yet TP were still having the better of the play and playing some great short, low passes to work thier way up the pitch, getting close but never reaching the elusive cigar!
Darryl had to make way midway through the half with an injury, giving Gareth the chance to return from injury up front, with Nathaneal moving out wide for the good of the team.
The half time team talk lifted a frustrated team and there was belief that with the same performance and supporting wind, All Nations could be broken down. To take further advantage, Calvin and Sam B swapped roles to try and utilise Calvin's electric pace and get on the end of the through balls from the left hand side.
And closer TP got, with Sam Balogun convinced his shot was destined for the net until a save from the All Nations goalkeeper, who know was providing the main obstacle.
Two further changes were made to try and unsettle the Reds, with Coln replacing Ferris and Micheal replacing Jesse. Neither player deserved to be replaced, but no-one on the pitch did such was the belief of those on the side that a TP goal was inevitable.
But All Nations, taking confidence (as we were) of playing a team in and around the bottom, were working out how to play against the wind. And against all the TP pressure, All Nations won a corner that was drilled in. A diving header clearance from Ian in the midst of flying boots led to a pinball rally in the box that eventually fell to an All Nations boot which guided the ball past a completely untested Paul into the far corner with what was to be the last All Nations kick of the game.
TP kicked off and such was the urgency to get something from the game, a corner was won within seconds.
But it was not to be as the referee blew for full time.
Deflated and despondent, the message was that it was just one of those weeks. There are no easy games in the league, as the top teams have found out when they have faced TP - it was our turn to learn the lesson and take it into the Cup the following week.
Team:
P. Howard;
D. Hambridge (c), I. Howard, T. Lindsay, J. Middleweek (M. Okolie);
D. Passfield (G. Goodhew), C. Lindsay, D. Spinola, S. Balogun;
F. Lindsay (M. Agbabiaka), N. Field;
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
T. Lindsay - uncompromising.
Blog Writer: N. Speroni
With the same hope we had at this time last season, a win against another struggling team would have boosted morale and confidence.
The Green Giant was missing for this game, allowing new signing Paul Howard the opportunity for his debut behind the centre back pairing of the Gaffer and his 'assistant'. Sam Balogun was given a more creative role in a wide left position, proving that yet another TP player is as versatile as something thats versatile!
Coach Nick dragged himself out of his man-flu death bed to be the eyes on the side - unfortunately there was no voice to go with it!
The game kicked of and the Wanstead Wind made an apperance for the game, making it hard for TP to mount any sustained pressue on All Nations. Yet TP were still having the better of the play and playing some great short, low passes to work thier way up the pitch, getting close but never reaching the elusive cigar!
Darryl had to make way midway through the half with an injury, giving Gareth the chance to return from injury up front, with Nathaneal moving out wide for the good of the team.
The half time team talk lifted a frustrated team and there was belief that with the same performance and supporting wind, All Nations could be broken down. To take further advantage, Calvin and Sam B swapped roles to try and utilise Calvin's electric pace and get on the end of the through balls from the left hand side.
And closer TP got, with Sam Balogun convinced his shot was destined for the net until a save from the All Nations goalkeeper, who know was providing the main obstacle.
Two further changes were made to try and unsettle the Reds, with Coln replacing Ferris and Micheal replacing Jesse. Neither player deserved to be replaced, but no-one on the pitch did such was the belief of those on the side that a TP goal was inevitable.
But All Nations, taking confidence (as we were) of playing a team in and around the bottom, were working out how to play against the wind. And against all the TP pressure, All Nations won a corner that was drilled in. A diving header clearance from Ian in the midst of flying boots led to a pinball rally in the box that eventually fell to an All Nations boot which guided the ball past a completely untested Paul into the far corner with what was to be the last All Nations kick of the game.
TP kicked off and such was the urgency to get something from the game, a corner was won within seconds.
But it was not to be as the referee blew for full time.
Deflated and despondent, the message was that it was just one of those weeks. There are no easy games in the league, as the top teams have found out when they have faced TP - it was our turn to learn the lesson and take it into the Cup the following week.
Team:
P. Howard;
D. Hambridge (c), I. Howard, T. Lindsay, J. Middleweek (M. Okolie);
D. Passfield (G. Goodhew), C. Lindsay, D. Spinola, S. Balogun;
F. Lindsay (M. Agbabiaka), N. Field;
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
T. Lindsay - uncompromising.
Blog Writer: N. Speroni
Monday, 17 November 2008
So close, yet so far!
We were up against Enfield a highly rated team, that had started the season well and where in the top 5.
We were a bit of a scratch team with two new loan signings being thrown in at the last minute, we did o.k. We had the strong wind in our faces in the first half and thankfully Enfield didn't really make the best use of it. Enfield started the brighter and with a slow passing game that seemed to be working!
A corner from the left was met by an Enfield player and buried into the net. Steve had no chance.
Our defenders were still getting to know each other, whilst Enfield players HAD met each other before !! With a bit of good fortune and help from Jesse & John the score was kept down to one. One mistake by Captian John was SAVED by a 15mtr dash to the line by Darryl.
The first half seemed to pass without to many more scares. Michael & Colin ( our loan boys from Blackhorse Rd ) played their part down the right. Gaining confidence as the match progressed.
The boss tried to encourage at the break. Trevor the wise old man was not so complimentary and told the team we were not playing. The word was SHOOT, in the second half. The wind is with us.
Rowen ( feeling ill ) came on as Darryl switched positions. Many attempts at goal, many near misses, many missed kicked in front of goal....but no goal.
Overall the game was played in a great spirit and we really should have picked up a point at least.Even the Enfield man (James) said we didn't deserve to lose. But hey, we did and it was so close but still so far.
Team:
S. Speroni,
M. Okolie (R. Clift), D. Passfield, J. Helm (c), J. Middleweek;
C. Agbabiaka (S. Balogun), C. Lindsay, D. Spinola, N. Field;
G. Goodhew, G. Perkins
Unused Subs:
I. Howard, T. Lindsay
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
Darryll Passfield - Superb attitude when asked to play in 3 positions and great performances in all 3!
Blog Writer: Ian Howard
We were a bit of a scratch team with two new loan signings being thrown in at the last minute, we did o.k. We had the strong wind in our faces in the first half and thankfully Enfield didn't really make the best use of it. Enfield started the brighter and with a slow passing game that seemed to be working!
A corner from the left was met by an Enfield player and buried into the net. Steve had no chance.
Our defenders were still getting to know each other, whilst Enfield players HAD met each other before !! With a bit of good fortune and help from Jesse & John the score was kept down to one. One mistake by Captian John was SAVED by a 15mtr dash to the line by Darryl.
The first half seemed to pass without to many more scares. Michael & Colin ( our loan boys from Blackhorse Rd ) played their part down the right. Gaining confidence as the match progressed.
The boss tried to encourage at the break. Trevor the wise old man was not so complimentary and told the team we were not playing. The word was SHOOT, in the second half. The wind is with us.
Rowen ( feeling ill ) came on as Darryl switched positions. Many attempts at goal, many near misses, many missed kicked in front of goal....but no goal.
Overall the game was played in a great spirit and we really should have picked up a point at least.Even the Enfield man (James) said we didn't deserve to lose. But hey, we did and it was so close but still so far.
Team:
S. Speroni,
M. Okolie (R. Clift), D. Passfield, J. Helm (c), J. Middleweek;
C. Agbabiaka (S. Balogun), C. Lindsay, D. Spinola, N. Field;
G. Goodhew, G. Perkins
Unused Subs:
I. Howard, T. Lindsay
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
Darryll Passfield - Superb attitude when asked to play in 3 positions and great performances in all 3!
Blog Writer: Ian Howard
Monday, 3 November 2008
Vs London All Stars
Team:
S. Speroni;
D. Passfield, J. Helm (c), T. Lindsay, J. Middleweek;
N. Field (D. Mitchell), G. Perkins, C. Lindsay, D. Spinola, F. Dooknah (G. Goodhew);
S. Balogun (F. Lindsay)
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
...to follow...
S. Speroni;
D. Passfield, J. Helm (c), T. Lindsay, J. Middleweek;
N. Field (D. Mitchell), G. Perkins, C. Lindsay, D. Spinola, F. Dooknah (G. Goodhew);
S. Balogun (F. Lindsay)
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
...to follow...
Saturday, 25 October 2008
TP Join the Big Time!
With several players returning and several players being unavailable, it was a much changed team that took to the field against the defending champions.
Ian – birthday boy & skipper for the day - and Nick started as the centre back pairing, with Dan Ong making his second consecutive start at right back. A five man midfield saw Calvin, Nathaneal and Gareth partner up in the middle for the first time, with Darryl on the right hand side and David slotting in on the left to man mark the Blackhorse playmaker – training out all that way with Blackhorse has it’s advantages!
Some last minute alterations to the starting line up seemed to take the wind out of the TP sails for the opening period however, and it was backs to the wall from kick-off. And just as TP were settling down there was an early set back when a through ball was played leaving Blackhorse Road’s giant of a striker against our very own Green Giant. The striker made a complete hash of the finish, but so unexpected was it that it caught Steve off guard who couldn’t quite tip it round the post.
But rather than collapse, TP actually got a grip on the game. Whilst this did mean defending with everything and the kitchen sink, and Steve seemingly exchanging his hands for frying pans to get to at time a barrage of shots and crosses, Calvin in the holding position was starting to take some of the pressure of the back line by winning tackles and headers that were 70-30 in the Blackhorse players favour. This allowed Nat to play and start picking passes out into the Blackhorse half.
Such was the confidence in the team that the defending was looking increasing solid, the play worked its way closer and closer to the Blackhorse goal. Not that we needed to get too close with Calvin hammering shots off from 30-40yrds that had all in Black worried!
A change was needed midway through the first half, with an incredibly unfortunate Gareth suffering a heavy tackle which aggravated his only just recovered thigh injury. Frankie came on to join Ferris up front. This coincided wit a tactical change pushing Jesse on to left midfield and David to left back.
Unlike the first 15mins, TP were now playing closer to the half way line, winning tackles and starting attacks from there. Dan Ong got a taste for the action at right back, making full bodied tackles and chasing the ball down into the midfield, and Jesse was enjoying more room to play down the left. But, in spite of the missiles being unleashed from Calvin, TP couldn’t get close enough to the Blackhorse Road goal to increase our chances of getting a deserved goal.
For all the play and possession we were having, Blackhorse were still creating problems and a second goal did come before half time.
A re-group at half time was used to really drive home the positives from the half, and with fresh legs ready on the sidelines and raring to make an impact, there was real belief that the second half could be won by the Oranges.
Changes were made as the half progressed, Dan Ong was replaced by Dan Spin (Darryl moved to right back) and Trevor replaced Ferris.
Defending was still impeccable, with a standout tackle from Ian inside the penalty box and – as per standard – several glorious saves from Steve. But the attack was becoming more and more dangerous.
David and Darryl were finding more room to break and start moves from the back into the midfield and beyond, Dan Spinola was pivotal in several spells on great one touch passing that resulted in Jesse and Calvin getting behind the Blackhorse Road defence, whilst Trevor was doing all the – in the most glamorous sense of the term – donkey work in hassling and tackling and suffocating the Blackhorse attacks. The highlights of the half being a sensational spell of passing down the left involving Dave, Dan, Frankie and Jesse and a thunderous volley from David after good play by Jesse down the left that – had it gone in – would have surely taken the title of TPs Greatest Ever Goal off of Dan Spinola.
Ian – birthday boy & skipper for the day - and Nick started as the centre back pairing, with Dan Ong making his second consecutive start at right back. A five man midfield saw Calvin, Nathaneal and Gareth partner up in the middle for the first time, with Darryl on the right hand side and David slotting in on the left to man mark the Blackhorse playmaker – training out all that way with Blackhorse has it’s advantages!
Some last minute alterations to the starting line up seemed to take the wind out of the TP sails for the opening period however, and it was backs to the wall from kick-off. And just as TP were settling down there was an early set back when a through ball was played leaving Blackhorse Road’s giant of a striker against our very own Green Giant. The striker made a complete hash of the finish, but so unexpected was it that it caught Steve off guard who couldn’t quite tip it round the post.
But rather than collapse, TP actually got a grip on the game. Whilst this did mean defending with everything and the kitchen sink, and Steve seemingly exchanging his hands for frying pans to get to at time a barrage of shots and crosses, Calvin in the holding position was starting to take some of the pressure of the back line by winning tackles and headers that were 70-30 in the Blackhorse players favour. This allowed Nat to play and start picking passes out into the Blackhorse half.
Such was the confidence in the team that the defending was looking increasing solid, the play worked its way closer and closer to the Blackhorse goal. Not that we needed to get too close with Calvin hammering shots off from 30-40yrds that had all in Black worried!
A change was needed midway through the first half, with an incredibly unfortunate Gareth suffering a heavy tackle which aggravated his only just recovered thigh injury. Frankie came on to join Ferris up front. This coincided wit a tactical change pushing Jesse on to left midfield and David to left back.
Unlike the first 15mins, TP were now playing closer to the half way line, winning tackles and starting attacks from there. Dan Ong got a taste for the action at right back, making full bodied tackles and chasing the ball down into the midfield, and Jesse was enjoying more room to play down the left. But, in spite of the missiles being unleashed from Calvin, TP couldn’t get close enough to the Blackhorse Road goal to increase our chances of getting a deserved goal.
For all the play and possession we were having, Blackhorse were still creating problems and a second goal did come before half time.
A re-group at half time was used to really drive home the positives from the half, and with fresh legs ready on the sidelines and raring to make an impact, there was real belief that the second half could be won by the Oranges.
Changes were made as the half progressed, Dan Ong was replaced by Dan Spin (Darryl moved to right back) and Trevor replaced Ferris.
Defending was still impeccable, with a standout tackle from Ian inside the penalty box and – as per standard – several glorious saves from Steve. But the attack was becoming more and more dangerous.
David and Darryl were finding more room to break and start moves from the back into the midfield and beyond, Dan Spinola was pivotal in several spells on great one touch passing that resulted in Jesse and Calvin getting behind the Blackhorse Road defence, whilst Trevor was doing all the – in the most glamorous sense of the term – donkey work in hassling and tackling and suffocating the Blackhorse attacks. The highlights of the half being a sensational spell of passing down the left involving Dave, Dan, Frankie and Jesse and a thunderous volley from David after good play by Jesse down the left that – had it gone in – would have surely taken the title of TPs Greatest Ever Goal off of Dan Spinola.A final throw of the dice saw an unfortunate Nat make way for Sam B. But, as per previous weeks, where earning a point wasn’t out of the question, the quest was blown apart by two breaks that put Blackhorse 4 goals to the good.
The post match analysis was dominated by one statement – the Blackhorse camp were asking themselves why the poor performance, to which the manager replied that it only seemed a poor performance because of the way TP took the game to them and played some of the best football we have ever seen in the Orange shirts.
Oh… but you are probably thinking how could we have joined the Big Time if we lost the game?
The post match analysis was dominated by one statement – the Blackhorse camp were asking themselves why the poor performance, to which the manager replied that it only seemed a poor performance because of the way TP took the game to them and played some of the best football we have ever seen in the Orange shirts.
Oh… but you are probably thinking how could we have joined the Big Time if we lost the game?
Well…
Ø all the Premier League clubs have one…
Ø the majority – if not all - of Football League clubs have one…
Ø no-one in the NELCEL has one…
What is it?
A Club Mascot in the shape of WigWam!
Ø all the Premier League clubs have one…
Ø the majority – if not all - of Football League clubs have one…
Ø no-one in the NELCEL has one…
What is it?
A Club Mascot in the shape of WigWam!
We’ve hit the big time now boys!
Samuel Howard – you will go down in history.
Samuel Howard – you will go down in history.
On a serious note – our thoughts and prayers remain with Rowan’s friend Jason’s family.
Team:
S. Speroni;
D. Ong (D. Spinola), I. Howard (c), N. Speroni, J. Middleweek;
D. Passfield, N. Field (S. Balogun), C. Lindsay, D. Hambridge;
F. Lindsay (T. Lindsay), G. Goodhew (F. Dooknah);
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
No question - Calvin Lindsay. Nuff said!
Sunday, 19 October 2008
Vs ICC Sons
Team:
S. Speroni;
D. Ong (F. Dooknah), I. Howard, T. Lindsay, J. Middleweek;
A. Aryanpour, S. Balogun (1), C. Lindsay, N. Field (c);
D. Passfield (1), G. Goodhew;
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
...to follow...
S. Speroni;
D. Ong (F. Dooknah), I. Howard, T. Lindsay, J. Middleweek;
A. Aryanpour, S. Balogun (1), C. Lindsay, N. Field (c);
D. Passfield (1), G. Goodhew;
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
...to follow...
Saturday, 11 October 2008
Round 3!
TP were without big Steve Speroni in goal for this clash with a team who have consistently been at the top of the table for the last couple of seasons, so this was always going to be a hard match without their established number one.
Dave Hambridge stepped in for his third appearance in goal. Frankie was on the bench as TP stuck with the 4-4-2 formation that worked against Walthamstow Parish. Calvin, Nathaneal, Rowan, and Arsan all came back into the equation, as injured target man Gareth watched from the sidelines.
And a historic moment for TP - Brother in Laws John & Rowan started alongside each other at Centre back for the first time.
TP started strongly and overcame the opposition in all the 50-50s. Trevor Lindsay and John Helm were dominating in the air and Rowan and Sam stood their ground against some pacey, talented Springfield players.
TP took the lead via Calvin Lindsay, scoring his second goal of the campaign, burying a cross shot from just inside the area, after being played in by Ferris Lindsay.
TP’s confidence was sky-high as Dan and Arsan ran the midfield well, and didn’t waste possession. The partnership is beginning to form and they communicated well with each other through-out. Springfield equalised when a midfielder muscled his way through the backline and finished low and hard.
Springfield carried on playing strongly and just before half time they got their second, a striker sneaking down the channel and sliding his shot in of the post.
TP came out in the second half and gave a good account and deservedly got their equaliser through Ferris. A cross was spilled by the keeper under pressure from substitute Greg and Ferris fired home.
With 10 minutes to go there would be an enthralling finale. Would one team snatch it? Or would it stay a draw, as the objective neutral (or unbiased fan!) would say the game deserved to stay.
Fortune seemed to be smiling on TP as Rowan, who had battled against the number 10 all game was rarely beaten, but Sam Heskey cleared off the line. But the resulting quickly taken corner saw fortune desert TP as a corner was headed in past Dave in goal.
There were plenty of other chances throughout the game, the most notable for TP being a header from Rowan blocked on the line and a vicious free kick – the taker unfortunately forgotten (you know who you are!) that eluded Arsan at the back post but had the crowd celebrating it was that close; For Springfield, a shot from all of 25yrds that was bending into the back post and would have been a contender for goal of the season had it not been for an outstretched hand from David.
The game was wrapped up 2 minutes from time as “the little one” who had been so well marshalled by Calvin and Sam wriggled past Calvin and crossed under the keeper for a striker to finish.
Team:
D. Hambridge;
S. Balogun, R. Clift, J. Helm (c), T. Lindsay (D. Passfield);
C. Lindsay (1), A. Aryanpour, D. Spinola, N. Speroni (D. Mitchell);
F. Lindsay (F. Dooknah), N. Field (G. Perkins);
Unused Subs: J. Middleweek, D. Ong
Blog Writer Man of the Match:
There has been a little history with Springfield which was glady brushed aside in this encounter, but for a performance that was a good defensively (against Springfield's own Robinho) as going forward, Calvin Lindsay takes the honours.
Dave Hambridge stepped in for his third appearance in goal. Frankie was on the bench as TP stuck with the 4-4-2 formation that worked against Walthamstow Parish. Calvin, Nathaneal, Rowan, and Arsan all came back into the equation, as injured target man Gareth watched from the sidelines.
And a historic moment for TP - Brother in Laws John & Rowan started alongside each other at Centre back for the first time.
TP started strongly and overcame the opposition in all the 50-50s. Trevor Lindsay and John Helm were dominating in the air and Rowan and Sam stood their ground against some pacey, talented Springfield players.
TP took the lead via Calvin Lindsay, scoring his second goal of the campaign, burying a cross shot from just inside the area, after being played in by Ferris Lindsay.
TP’s confidence was sky-high as Dan and Arsan ran the midfield well, and didn’t waste possession. The partnership is beginning to form and they communicated well with each other through-out. Springfield equalised when a midfielder muscled his way through the backline and finished low and hard.
Springfield carried on playing strongly and just before half time they got their second, a striker sneaking down the channel and sliding his shot in of the post.
TP came out in the second half and gave a good account and deservedly got their equaliser through Ferris. A cross was spilled by the keeper under pressure from substitute Greg and Ferris fired home.
With 10 minutes to go there would be an enthralling finale. Would one team snatch it? Or would it stay a draw, as the objective neutral (or unbiased fan!) would say the game deserved to stay.
Fortune seemed to be smiling on TP as Rowan, who had battled against the number 10 all game was rarely beaten, but Sam Heskey cleared off the line. But the resulting quickly taken corner saw fortune desert TP as a corner was headed in past Dave in goal.
There were plenty of other chances throughout the game, the most notable for TP being a header from Rowan blocked on the line and a vicious free kick – the taker unfortunately forgotten (you know who you are!) that eluded Arsan at the back post but had the crowd celebrating it was that close; For Springfield, a shot from all of 25yrds that was bending into the back post and would have been a contender for goal of the season had it not been for an outstretched hand from David.
The game was wrapped up 2 minutes from time as “the little one” who had been so well marshalled by Calvin and Sam wriggled past Calvin and crossed under the keeper for a striker to finish.
Team:
D. Hambridge;
S. Balogun, R. Clift, J. Helm (c), T. Lindsay (D. Passfield);
C. Lindsay (1), A. Aryanpour, D. Spinola, N. Speroni (D. Mitchell);
F. Lindsay (F. Dooknah), N. Field (G. Perkins);
Unused Subs: J. Middleweek, D. Ong
Blog Writer Man of the Match:
There has been a little history with Springfield which was glady brushed aside in this encounter, but for a performance that was a good defensively (against Springfield's own Robinho) as going forward, Calvin Lindsay takes the honours.
Sunday, 5 October 2008
What's the word?... Bouncebackability!
Going into the game against Walthamstow, confidence was surprisingly high coming off the back of 3 defeats.
The Gaffer was not present, nor was his right hand man Trevor, although thier instructions had been passed on and Trevor’s “First 3” mantra was beginning to stick!
Jesse, Darryl and Gareth all started with a point to prove against the club that had loaned them out.
The Oranges – this week in the navy of Springfield – began the stronger, with what could have been the most historic moment in their brief (but long enough!) history…
A corner was won on the right by TP and the ball fell to Dan Spin at the edge of the box. Nick - at centre back so safely out of the way of any goal scoring opportunities - wandered forward in to a position to create an option for Dan, which Dan took.
With one touch to tee and a swing of the left boot… CROSSBAR! And down… Over the line? Who knows! A case will be put to the NELECL for goal line technology.
The game balanced out and slowly – with a returning wind to the Flats – Walthamstow started to apply constant pressure from a dangerous throw-in assault. With the ball being flung to the back post on each occasion, there was hardly any let up or defence, just an ugly scrap to get it away on each occasion. There were many calls for fouls, pushing, flaying arms but a watching Ref always ensured that 6 of 1 and half a dozen of the other meant there was no advantage to either team.
But it was always coming and it was 0–1 with a long throw to back post and bundled in.
But was that the spur needed for TP? The style of play was exact opposite of Walthamstow, and a spell of awesome short passing involving Dan, Ferris and Darryl was finished by Greg on his starting debut. It was a deserved equaliser.
An unfortunate moment followed when Gareth pulled up with a thigh injury. He was replaced by Nat Field, who had been incredibly unfortunate not to start.
The wind continued to be a factor, and whilst we had finally come to terms with the throws, a freak punt from just inside the TP half off of a clearance by Steve bounced perfectly between John and Steve to loop over the stranded man in green.
Half Time, and defensively not overly tested bar the throw-ins. Surely with the wind against these wouldn’t be effective in the second half?
Another change made at half time saw Arsan come on for an impressive Greg.
The half again started positively and more direct, and it wasn’t too long before a dummied shot by Ferris (we know that was the plan all along!) was actually an inch perfect pass to Nathaneal to bury to make it 2-2.
The 3rd change of the game saw Calvin for Ferris.
Just when we thought we had seen the end of the aerial barrage… Penalty! The Ref was always going to give one, and it was Steve that conceded. It was harsh, and this only riled the giant further, and with a word from an un-named Walthamstow defector, Steve – even though wrong footed at first – recovered with a Gordon Banks-esqe save, diving to his bottom left to tip the ball up and round the post. Not stopping there, Steve then made another sprawling save to his left, this time keeping out a pile driver from a well worked corner. Could this be the turning point?
In form reminiscent of a former Swedish England manager, David replaced Nick in the 4th change of the match, and made an energetic start to rile the opposition and stir his team-mates into action… but… Penalty! This time Arsan conceded while defending a counter attack. There were few complaints, and a new penalty taker only just beat Steve, who guessed right and so nearly successfully. 2-3 – TP were behind for the 3rd time.
With the aforementioned Gaffer and right hand man absent, it fell to the Coach to make the call to go all out to get back into the game, going with a tactical change to 3-4-3, with the front line being made up of Calvin, Nat & Sam B.
And it paid off, with pressure leading to several corners and finally a corner from Arsan to the back post, which was met by Dave and put back into the mix for the Wanderer Balogun to bury… 3-3!
With only 15mins left, TP reverted back to a more solid Back to basics of 4-4-2.
The final change was made for TP, with Dan Ong coming on for a hard working Frankie on the left wing. And the first thing he did was rough up a couple of the Walthamstow big guys with some solid, full bodied tackles.
And then it happened…
4-3! TP took the lead for the first time in the game and it truly was deserved for a grafting, yet at times gorgeous, display. Nat Field, in classic Football Bloopers style, rounded (or was it went through?) the fumbling goalkeeper and took an eternity to put the ball away – but away it went!
It was sealed in the dying moments from another Aryanpour corner and this time it was Sideshow Dan taking the main stage, thumping home from close range.
Team:
S. Speroni;
S. Balogun (1), J. Helm, N. Speroni (c) (D. Hambridge), J. Middleweek;
D. Passfield, D. Spinola (1), G. Perkins (1) (A. Aryanpour), F. Dooknah (D. Ong);
G. Goodhew (N. Field (2)), F. Lindsay (C. Lindsay);
Blog Writer Man of the Match:
Take your pick from penalty hero Steve, 2 goal hero Nathaneal, inspirational club captain John Helm, supersub Arsan (forgetting the penalty!).
My pick... a sterling, solid and passionate display from Jesse Middleweek. Never in awe of those he knows so well and inside out, he stood up to be counted and was praised by team-mates, opposition and supporters alike.
The Gaffer was not present, nor was his right hand man Trevor, although thier instructions had been passed on and Trevor’s “First 3” mantra was beginning to stick!
Jesse, Darryl and Gareth all started with a point to prove against the club that had loaned them out.
The Oranges – this week in the navy of Springfield – began the stronger, with what could have been the most historic moment in their brief (but long enough!) history…
A corner was won on the right by TP and the ball fell to Dan Spin at the edge of the box. Nick - at centre back so safely out of the way of any goal scoring opportunities - wandered forward in to a position to create an option for Dan, which Dan took.
With one touch to tee and a swing of the left boot… CROSSBAR! And down… Over the line? Who knows! A case will be put to the NELECL for goal line technology.
The game balanced out and slowly – with a returning wind to the Flats – Walthamstow started to apply constant pressure from a dangerous throw-in assault. With the ball being flung to the back post on each occasion, there was hardly any let up or defence, just an ugly scrap to get it away on each occasion. There were many calls for fouls, pushing, flaying arms but a watching Ref always ensured that 6 of 1 and half a dozen of the other meant there was no advantage to either team.
But it was always coming and it was 0–1 with a long throw to back post and bundled in.
But was that the spur needed for TP? The style of play was exact opposite of Walthamstow, and a spell of awesome short passing involving Dan, Ferris and Darryl was finished by Greg on his starting debut. It was a deserved equaliser.
An unfortunate moment followed when Gareth pulled up with a thigh injury. He was replaced by Nat Field, who had been incredibly unfortunate not to start.
The wind continued to be a factor, and whilst we had finally come to terms with the throws, a freak punt from just inside the TP half off of a clearance by Steve bounced perfectly between John and Steve to loop over the stranded man in green.
Half Time, and defensively not overly tested bar the throw-ins. Surely with the wind against these wouldn’t be effective in the second half?
Another change made at half time saw Arsan come on for an impressive Greg.
The half again started positively and more direct, and it wasn’t too long before a dummied shot by Ferris (we know that was the plan all along!) was actually an inch perfect pass to Nathaneal to bury to make it 2-2.
The 3rd change of the game saw Calvin for Ferris.
Just when we thought we had seen the end of the aerial barrage… Penalty! The Ref was always going to give one, and it was Steve that conceded. It was harsh, and this only riled the giant further, and with a word from an un-named Walthamstow defector, Steve – even though wrong footed at first – recovered with a Gordon Banks-esqe save, diving to his bottom left to tip the ball up and round the post. Not stopping there, Steve then made another sprawling save to his left, this time keeping out a pile driver from a well worked corner. Could this be the turning point?
In form reminiscent of a former Swedish England manager, David replaced Nick in the 4th change of the match, and made an energetic start to rile the opposition and stir his team-mates into action… but… Penalty! This time Arsan conceded while defending a counter attack. There were few complaints, and a new penalty taker only just beat Steve, who guessed right and so nearly successfully. 2-3 – TP were behind for the 3rd time.
With the aforementioned Gaffer and right hand man absent, it fell to the Coach to make the call to go all out to get back into the game, going with a tactical change to 3-4-3, with the front line being made up of Calvin, Nat & Sam B.
And it paid off, with pressure leading to several corners and finally a corner from Arsan to the back post, which was met by Dave and put back into the mix for the Wanderer Balogun to bury… 3-3!
With only 15mins left, TP reverted back to a more solid Back to basics of 4-4-2.
The final change was made for TP, with Dan Ong coming on for a hard working Frankie on the left wing. And the first thing he did was rough up a couple of the Walthamstow big guys with some solid, full bodied tackles.
And then it happened…
4-3! TP took the lead for the first time in the game and it truly was deserved for a grafting, yet at times gorgeous, display. Nat Field, in classic Football Bloopers style, rounded (or was it went through?) the fumbling goalkeeper and took an eternity to put the ball away – but away it went!
It was sealed in the dying moments from another Aryanpour corner and this time it was Sideshow Dan taking the main stage, thumping home from close range.
Team:
S. Speroni;
S. Balogun (1), J. Helm, N. Speroni (c) (D. Hambridge), J. Middleweek;
D. Passfield, D. Spinola (1), G. Perkins (1) (A. Aryanpour), F. Dooknah (D. Ong);
G. Goodhew (N. Field (2)), F. Lindsay (C. Lindsay);
Blog Writer Man of the Match:
Take your pick from penalty hero Steve, 2 goal hero Nathaneal, inspirational club captain John Helm, supersub Arsan (forgetting the penalty!).
My pick... a sterling, solid and passionate display from Jesse Middleweek. Never in awe of those he knows so well and inside out, he stood up to be counted and was praised by team-mates, opposition and supporters alike.
Saturday, 27 September 2008
Another Test from the Top
Club captain John Helm returned to centre back, Frankie Dooknah came into the team to play on the right wing with Darryl Passfield moving back to right-back. Dan Spinola played at Centre Back whilst Calvin Lindsay began in the middle of the park alongside Nick Speroni and David Hambridge as TP stuck to a 4-5-1 formation. Last season’s top scorer Ferris Lindsay, recovering from a knee injury, started on the bench.
Before the game began, the word was to win the three first tackles, three shots and three challenges in the air. The oranges kicked of and after a nervy opening, settled down to play their passing game. A lot of the early play was dominated by ELT putting early pressure on the defence but John and Dan won headers, clearing their lines. Darryl had a tough battle up against a strong winger, but he matched his strength and often bettered it.
The midfield was packed with both teams playing three in the middle. One player in particular stood out in their midfield, and he was proving to be their playmaker, spraying passes out to the wings and playing through balls to the strikers. Nick was given the holding role and he, along with the defenders had a tough start. The first goal was scored by ELT about the half-hour mark, a good one-two down the TP left, the winger got behind the side of the defence and cut the ball back, the resulting shot deflected off Dan and crept past goalie Steve Speroni.
ELT kept up the pressure and Steve Speroni faced a one-on-one with an ELT striker. The ball was fumbled, but reminiscent of Oliver Kahn in the 2002 World Cup final, Steve made up for it with a one handed save at the strikers feet. To be fair to Oliver Kahn he was punished by an in-form Ronaldo, whereas the striker who pounced for ELT only had one comparison to Ronaldo; his belly! (meant in the nicest possible way)
TP then began to attack and the last ten minutes of the half was played in the ELT half. A good one-two between Nat Field and Dave produced some space in the middle, Dave played in Frankie whose first touch was slightly mistimed and a defender got back to clear. Frankie’s best moment of the half was soon to follow, and a piece of play that reflected our overall performance. Three ELT players were knocking the ball about between them, Frankie chased and didn’t give up, but carried on running before dispatching a perfectly time tackle, before being replaced by Greg, making his debut. TP jogged in at half-time, full of belief that they could get back into the game.
Second half began with Calvin being put on the wing, with David man-marking the ELT playmaker which gave Nick some freedom to attack.
TP attacked from the off, with Gareth winning a header to Calvin, getting the return and whipping a ball across the face of goal. TP were winning 80% of the aerial challenges and were challenging all of them, first and second ball. Dan moved into the midfield and started dictating the play. Twenty minutes from the end, TP conceded the second. A corner was half cleared but a good powerful, deflected strike, sneaked over Steve’s hand and in.
The big guns were introduced into the game and Ferris came on for Gareth, with veteran soldier Ian replacing John. TP hit back hard, with some good interplay between Nat, Ferris and David resulted in Dave running down the wing, his turn invited a challenge, which meant a foul and a free kick in a promising position. Nick curled it and the ELT keeper, caught it and ran to the area......and then stepped out the area, resulting in another free kick which Nick drilled wide.
Trevor aka Cafu came on and started entertaining the players, let alone the spectators, which included Paul Howard making his debut.
A slight lapse in concentration and a numerical advantage to ELT in attack resulted in a third goal. A counter attack resulted in the playmaker turning and shooting from the edge of the area into the corner.
After the warm down, we spoke about the game and came to the conclusion that we had played well, but need to improve in the final third. Lets make amends next week.
Team:
S. Speroni;
D. Passfield (T. Lindsay), D. Spinola, J. Helm (I. Howard), J. Middleweek;
F. Dooknah (G. Perkins), C. Lindsay, N. Speroni (c), D. Hambridge, N. Field;
G. Goodhew (F. Lindsay);
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
This was a tough one as there was a lot of good performances, and I’m going to give it to Nat Field because he was challenging for every ball and get this, WINNING HEADERS!! He’s proven he’s not tall for nothing. He was strong throughout, held good positions, linked up well with teammates, and also skinned his right-back many a time.
Writer: Dave Hambridge
Before the game began, the word was to win the three first tackles, three shots and three challenges in the air. The oranges kicked of and after a nervy opening, settled down to play their passing game. A lot of the early play was dominated by ELT putting early pressure on the defence but John and Dan won headers, clearing their lines. Darryl had a tough battle up against a strong winger, but he matched his strength and often bettered it.
The midfield was packed with both teams playing three in the middle. One player in particular stood out in their midfield, and he was proving to be their playmaker, spraying passes out to the wings and playing through balls to the strikers. Nick was given the holding role and he, along with the defenders had a tough start. The first goal was scored by ELT about the half-hour mark, a good one-two down the TP left, the winger got behind the side of the defence and cut the ball back, the resulting shot deflected off Dan and crept past goalie Steve Speroni.
ELT kept up the pressure and Steve Speroni faced a one-on-one with an ELT striker. The ball was fumbled, but reminiscent of Oliver Kahn in the 2002 World Cup final, Steve made up for it with a one handed save at the strikers feet. To be fair to Oliver Kahn he was punished by an in-form Ronaldo, whereas the striker who pounced for ELT only had one comparison to Ronaldo; his belly! (meant in the nicest possible way)
TP then began to attack and the last ten minutes of the half was played in the ELT half. A good one-two between Nat Field and Dave produced some space in the middle, Dave played in Frankie whose first touch was slightly mistimed and a defender got back to clear. Frankie’s best moment of the half was soon to follow, and a piece of play that reflected our overall performance. Three ELT players were knocking the ball about between them, Frankie chased and didn’t give up, but carried on running before dispatching a perfectly time tackle, before being replaced by Greg, making his debut. TP jogged in at half-time, full of belief that they could get back into the game.
Second half began with Calvin being put on the wing, with David man-marking the ELT playmaker which gave Nick some freedom to attack.
TP attacked from the off, with Gareth winning a header to Calvin, getting the return and whipping a ball across the face of goal. TP were winning 80% of the aerial challenges and were challenging all of them, first and second ball. Dan moved into the midfield and started dictating the play. Twenty minutes from the end, TP conceded the second. A corner was half cleared but a good powerful, deflected strike, sneaked over Steve’s hand and in.
The big guns were introduced into the game and Ferris came on for Gareth, with veteran soldier Ian replacing John. TP hit back hard, with some good interplay between Nat, Ferris and David resulted in Dave running down the wing, his turn invited a challenge, which meant a foul and a free kick in a promising position. Nick curled it and the ELT keeper, caught it and ran to the area......and then stepped out the area, resulting in another free kick which Nick drilled wide.
Trevor aka Cafu came on and started entertaining the players, let alone the spectators, which included Paul Howard making his debut.
A slight lapse in concentration and a numerical advantage to ELT in attack resulted in a third goal. A counter attack resulted in the playmaker turning and shooting from the edge of the area into the corner.
After the warm down, we spoke about the game and came to the conclusion that we had played well, but need to improve in the final third. Lets make amends next week.
Team:
S. Speroni;
D. Passfield (T. Lindsay), D. Spinola, J. Helm (I. Howard), J. Middleweek;
F. Dooknah (G. Perkins), C. Lindsay, N. Speroni (c), D. Hambridge, N. Field;
G. Goodhew (F. Lindsay);
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
This was a tough one as there was a lot of good performances, and I’m going to give it to Nat Field because he was challenging for every ball and get this, WINNING HEADERS!! He’s proven he’s not tall for nothing. He was strong throughout, held good positions, linked up well with teammates, and also skinned his right-back many a time.
Writer: Dave Hambridge
Sunday, 21 September 2008
A Test from the Top...
TPFC were up against a Camberwell team which has very solid reputation.
Finishing second in the League last year we knew we were up for a tough time.
The team in Orange had a very good pre-match talk and everyone knew what was expected of them. Positions were talked through and the mental state of the players was excellent.
Manager Ian decided to go with 4-5-1 formation which everyone was in agreement with, having a solid back four with Gareth being the target man upfront. In the absence of Nick, David was selected as captain and he filled the boots extremely well.
The game kicked off and TP were doing exactly what was needed sitting when needs
be but not giving Camberwell so much respect that we did not go forward. When we
had the ball on the floor we played some brilliant football making the Camberwell very wary. When Camberwell attacked the back four consisting of Trevor, who also had an outstanding match, was solid. Trevor also managed to show us some vintage skills during the match as well as winning many a ball in the air.
However in true TP style we managed to let a floating ball fly over the top of us which caught out the defence and which was an easy finish for the team in yellow to put them 1-0 up. That goal came about 15 minutes into the match which TP were absolutely dominating. And even more disappointing was that it was Camberwell’s first meaningful attack!
Kick off again and we did not let our heads hang, we stuck together and continued to push forward. However not creating many shots on target the inevitable happened. Camberwell benefitted from a mistake in the back and hit home a second goal, which left goal keeper Steve very angry indeed!
The half time whistle went and TP came in still full of energy and exchanging constructive comments about the first half. No substitutions were made and Camberwell now having the sun in their eyes we were hoping to give the keeper a test by having a few powerful shots on target.
Again TP went forward having some very good forward flow but seeming to get caught as last week with the ball over the top. Steve made some good stops keeping the yellows out. The wingers got into the game and made a few attacks but to our frustration no one could get on the end of the crosses to convert for us.
After about 10 minutes of the second half TP conceded the third and 5 minutes later the fourth - one coming from a corner and another from a long ball which just needed to be cleared.
But after that TP still came forward and were able to have a shot or two on target.
With about 15 minutes left, Samuel B came on for Darryl and soon after followed by Nathanael and Frankie. The game slowed but STILL TP came forward with Gareth hitting the crossbar and Nathanael forcing a good save from Camberwell’s goal keeper.
Coming away from the match TP could hold their heads high as we took the game to the Yellows and the 4-0 score line did not reflect the performance of our boys in Orange! With more performances like that to come we can certainly look forward to the rest of the season.
Team:
S. Speroni;
T. Lindsay, I. Howard (F. Dooknah), R. Clift, J. Middleweek (N. Field);
D. Passfield (S. Balogun), D. Spinola, D. Hambridge (c), C. Lindsay;
A. Aryanpour, G. Goodhew;
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
Match Captain David Hambridge - led by example in the team talks and in the tackle.
Writer: Frankie Dooknah
Finishing second in the League last year we knew we were up for a tough time.
The team in Orange had a very good pre-match talk and everyone knew what was expected of them. Positions were talked through and the mental state of the players was excellent.
Manager Ian decided to go with 4-5-1 formation which everyone was in agreement with, having a solid back four with Gareth being the target man upfront. In the absence of Nick, David was selected as captain and he filled the boots extremely well.
The game kicked off and TP were doing exactly what was needed sitting when needs
be but not giving Camberwell so much respect that we did not go forward. When we
had the ball on the floor we played some brilliant football making the Camberwell very wary. When Camberwell attacked the back four consisting of Trevor, who also had an outstanding match, was solid. Trevor also managed to show us some vintage skills during the match as well as winning many a ball in the air.
However in true TP style we managed to let a floating ball fly over the top of us which caught out the defence and which was an easy finish for the team in yellow to put them 1-0 up. That goal came about 15 minutes into the match which TP were absolutely dominating. And even more disappointing was that it was Camberwell’s first meaningful attack!
Kick off again and we did not let our heads hang, we stuck together and continued to push forward. However not creating many shots on target the inevitable happened. Camberwell benefitted from a mistake in the back and hit home a second goal, which left goal keeper Steve very angry indeed!
The half time whistle went and TP came in still full of energy and exchanging constructive comments about the first half. No substitutions were made and Camberwell now having the sun in their eyes we were hoping to give the keeper a test by having a few powerful shots on target.
Again TP went forward having some very good forward flow but seeming to get caught as last week with the ball over the top. Steve made some good stops keeping the yellows out. The wingers got into the game and made a few attacks but to our frustration no one could get on the end of the crosses to convert for us.
After about 10 minutes of the second half TP conceded the third and 5 minutes later the fourth - one coming from a corner and another from a long ball which just needed to be cleared.
But after that TP still came forward and were able to have a shot or two on target.
With about 15 minutes left, Samuel B came on for Darryl and soon after followed by Nathanael and Frankie. The game slowed but STILL TP came forward with Gareth hitting the crossbar and Nathanael forcing a good save from Camberwell’s goal keeper.
Coming away from the match TP could hold their heads high as we took the game to the Yellows and the 4-0 score line did not reflect the performance of our boys in Orange! With more performances like that to come we can certainly look forward to the rest of the season.
Team:
S. Speroni;
T. Lindsay, I. Howard (F. Dooknah), R. Clift, J. Middleweek (N. Field);
D. Passfield (S. Balogun), D. Spinola, D. Hambridge (c), C. Lindsay;
A. Aryanpour, G. Goodhew;
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
Match Captain David Hambridge - led by example in the team talks and in the tackle.
Writer: Frankie Dooknah
Saturday, 13 September 2008
Bruised but not Crushed.
Another good squad of players took on one of the 'new boys' in the league, Tower Hamlets. They have been playing for a number of years in a different church league and they turned out to be a tough nut to crack.
Dave Hambridge returned to the team for his first appearance of the season; with Dan Ong and Jessie Middleweek in line for their debuts also.
However, after letting them have a goal in the first few minutes, it was always going to be an uphill task. As the first half spanned out we began to get into the game, resulting in a nice slid rule pass from Frankie through to Gareth, who calmly guided the ball into the net for his 2nd in two matches.
But we again allowed them to have a number of chances in the first half, and but for some outstanding saves from Steve, last ditch tackles from David and a clearance of the line from Sam Ranthe (from his own back pass!) we would have gone in at half time more than 2 v 1.
After wise words from the manager, coach and our unofficial 'asst manager' Trevor and various comments from players, the thought of the second half was look forward too.
However we seemed to loose the plot with Tower Hamlets ploughing 3 and sometimes 4 forward. Attack after attack was only going to end up with one result... more goals for them.
As we failed to play the ball on the floor as much as we did in the 1st game of the season we found it difficult to supply Gareth & Ferris with anything that might end up being a half chance. Nick managed a great long range shot which just missed the angle of the bar and post late on, however on the whole we battled well but without any real success. Tower Hamlets managed to take over the game as the 3rd then the 4th (a possible pen) went in. The pen was almost saved well by Steve, yet the power of the shot sent it into the top corner via Steve's valiant effort.
Jesse our new signing who has just turned 16 made his debut and slotted in well at left back; Dan Ong also came on to make his first start.
At least one of Tower's goals ought to have been called offside, yet by know we were very bruised not only by the score but also by a strong Tower Hamlets team, who will do well this season I am sure.
However, as the heading of this blog suggests we may be bruised by such a scoreline, yet we are not - and should not - feel crushed.
It must be a game 'we learn from' as our coach mentioned after the game. We have experienced a high and a low this season and we know how hard we need to work for the highs in future. But they will be worth it!
Team:
S. Speroni;
D. Mitchell (D. Passfield), D. Hambridge, R. Clift, S. Ranthe (J. Middleweek);
F. Dooknah (D. Spinola), N. Field, N. Speroni (c), C. Lindsay (D. Ong);
G. Goodhew (1) (S. Balogun), F. Lindsay;
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
Steve Speroni - Hands down the best performance on the pitch. But for him the score would of been double figures. But alongside this, 2 games in and his stature in goal, his talking and his distribution have come on leaps and bounds from last season already.
Writer: Ian Howard
Dave Hambridge returned to the team for his first appearance of the season; with Dan Ong and Jessie Middleweek in line for their debuts also.
However, after letting them have a goal in the first few minutes, it was always going to be an uphill task. As the first half spanned out we began to get into the game, resulting in a nice slid rule pass from Frankie through to Gareth, who calmly guided the ball into the net for his 2nd in two matches.
But we again allowed them to have a number of chances in the first half, and but for some outstanding saves from Steve, last ditch tackles from David and a clearance of the line from Sam Ranthe (from his own back pass!) we would have gone in at half time more than 2 v 1.
After wise words from the manager, coach and our unofficial 'asst manager' Trevor and various comments from players, the thought of the second half was look forward too.
However we seemed to loose the plot with Tower Hamlets ploughing 3 and sometimes 4 forward. Attack after attack was only going to end up with one result... more goals for them.
As we failed to play the ball on the floor as much as we did in the 1st game of the season we found it difficult to supply Gareth & Ferris with anything that might end up being a half chance. Nick managed a great long range shot which just missed the angle of the bar and post late on, however on the whole we battled well but without any real success. Tower Hamlets managed to take over the game as the 3rd then the 4th (a possible pen) went in. The pen was almost saved well by Steve, yet the power of the shot sent it into the top corner via Steve's valiant effort.
Jesse our new signing who has just turned 16 made his debut and slotted in well at left back; Dan Ong also came on to make his first start.
At least one of Tower's goals ought to have been called offside, yet by know we were very bruised not only by the score but also by a strong Tower Hamlets team, who will do well this season I am sure.
However, as the heading of this blog suggests we may be bruised by such a scoreline, yet we are not - and should not - feel crushed.
It must be a game 'we learn from' as our coach mentioned after the game. We have experienced a high and a low this season and we know how hard we need to work for the highs in future. But they will be worth it!
Team:
S. Speroni;
D. Mitchell (D. Passfield), D. Hambridge, R. Clift, S. Ranthe (J. Middleweek);
F. Dooknah (D. Spinola), N. Field, N. Speroni (c), C. Lindsay (D. Ong);
G. Goodhew (1) (S. Balogun), F. Lindsay;
Blog Writers Man of the Match:
Steve Speroni - Hands down the best performance on the pitch. But for him the score would of been double figures. But alongside this, 2 games in and his stature in goal, his talking and his distribution have come on leaps and bounds from last season already.
Writer: Ian Howard
Saturday, 6 September 2008
History Repeats... We Hope Not!
This time last year, Tollington Park F.C were at Wanstead Flats making their league debut against Ecclesia.
This year, the fixture list threw up the same opening day match up.
Our last outing saw us lose 5-1 against the team in black, and whilst we won on the opening day last year 2-1, we couldn't buy a win for a while afterwards!
But this is where history won't repeat on us.
A very new TP kicked off the season with no less than 3 starting debutants - Steve (Pinto), Rowan & Darryl (not including Sam Ranthe & Arsan who hardly featured last year) and 2 debutants on the bench - Gareth & Frankie.
Oh, and a modified kit to remind us of last years achievements and our ultimate aim for this season!
S. Balogun (1), I. Howard, R. Clift, S. Ranthe (T. Lindsay);
C. Lindsay (1), A. Aryanpour, N. Speroni (c), D. Passfield (G. Goodhew (1));
S. Pinto (D. Spinola), N. Field (F. Dooknah);
Blog Writer Man of the Match:
A few outstanding performances (Steve S, Arsan, Nathaneal), but Rowan - on his debut - dominated the back line. Always encouraging, directing and getting to where he needed to be as well as ensuring TP played football from the back out.
This year, the fixture list threw up the same opening day match up.
Our last outing saw us lose 5-1 against the team in black, and whilst we won on the opening day last year 2-1, we couldn't buy a win for a while afterwards!
But this is where history won't repeat on us.
A very new TP kicked off the season with no less than 3 starting debutants - Steve (Pinto), Rowan & Darryl (not including Sam Ranthe & Arsan who hardly featured last year) and 2 debutants on the bench - Gareth & Frankie.
Oh, and a modified kit to remind us of last years achievements and our ultimate aim for this season!
TP started strongly and spent the first 20mins camped in the Ecclesia half. There were nice spells of football and some strong individual play, especially from Nathaneal.
TP were looking dangerous. Through balls were being played into dangerous areas that, when relationships are more established, would have led to goals on a plate for the highly regarded Steve P, and whilst shots were not raining down on the Ecclesia goal, the pressure was building and corners were being won.
But whilst last season we needed what at times felt like dozens of chances to get a goal (unless Ferris was sniffing about!), Darryl whipped a ball in and it eventually fell to Sam B (right back!) to bury, despite calls for offside (which the Ref waved away due to the ball falling into Sam's path via an Ecclesia defender).
But, in TP style, we all switched off and made life hard, especially in the face of the wind which made its expected return to the Flats. Ecclesia took confidence from their pressure but some die hard defending in and around the box, as well as a fine one on one save from our own Green Giant kept TP going in at half time a goal to the good.
A couple of half time changes saw Trevor replace an excellent Sam R at left back and debutant goal provider Darryl make way for debutant Gareth, who moved up front with Nathaneal moving to the wide right position where he spent most of last season.
But Ecclesia started the stronger and oddly still were taking advantage of the wind that was now against them, with a hopeful shot hanging in the air before dropping onto the top of the bar.
Their pressure paid off when a good cross was put in for the Ecclesia striker to leap highest and bury. Even if marking had been tighter it would have been difficult to stop.
But this is where the new faces paid dividends, as while the old boys had been in this positon many times before, the new boys weren't affected and drove the team onwards.
TP picked up the pace and, as in the first half, took the game back to the opposition down the wings. Corners and throws were being won in dangerous area's and Ecclesia were beginning to get rattled again, to the extent of an Ecclesia player saying their formation of 4-2-1 wasn't working! No wonder, they felt like they were 4 players short - but they were all sitting in the middle of midfield.
2 more substitutions were made, and the tireless physical work of Steve and Nathaneal - both of whom caused endless problems for the opposition when on the ball, made way for Dan Spin and Frankie.
The football and pressure continued, but it was a strike from out of the blue that caught everyone - even his teammates - off guard! Gareth had very much kept himself to himself before the game and no-one knew what to expect from him - we know now! The ball dropped to Gareth some 40 yards plus from goal, and with one touch for control and a swing of his right boot, the ball flew goal bound so fast the goalkeeper shrunk into himself and was beaten. What have Walthamstow let go?
Moments later, a delicate but perfect through ball from Dan Spin found Calvin from the left wing, who showed great pace, strength and finishing to beat the goalkeeper.
A couple more chances fell, but Ecclesia still thought there was a way back and nearly found it but for Steve sprawling 6ft plus across his goal to save a clear cut chance with his head, which must have been enjoyable compared to the pain he experienced in the first half when he saved with another part of his anatomy (think just below the waist!).
Some more die hard defending after a physical encounter against a big team (that all in Orange relished) made sure TP got off to another winning start.
The challenge now is to keep the form going against new boys Tower Hamlets next week.
Team:
S. Speroni;S. Balogun (1), I. Howard, R. Clift, S. Ranthe (T. Lindsay);
C. Lindsay (1), A. Aryanpour, N. Speroni (c), D. Passfield (G. Goodhew (1));
S. Pinto (D. Spinola), N. Field (F. Dooknah);
Blog Writer Man of the Match:
A few outstanding performances (Steve S, Arsan, Nathaneal), but Rowan - on his debut - dominated the back line. Always encouraging, directing and getting to where he needed to be as well as ensuring TP played football from the back out.
Thursday, 21 August 2008
Friendly: TPFC 1 Blackhorse Road 7
So, are we ready for the season ahead?
Not on the second half performance!! We enjoyed the fact that we where playing this friendly on Tottenham Ladies Ground. Really good pitch….not for the likes of us….too flat….we are used to some other sort of ‘flats’!!!
However the first half was a really encouraging half for us all. At 0 v 0 we had all put in a good 45 minute shift. Without the manager going off the rails for 2 mins the half could almost be called perfect. Trevor in goal….superb!! (Watch out Steve!) Yet we matched the Champs. They had 2 chances that I guess once the season starts they would have snapped up, however they didn’t.
The second half, well, the boss made a number of changes to make sure everyone got a game and that seemed to upset the balance. As it was a role on role off system it became a little confusing.
Sam B played his heart out in the first half with a cold, Rowen, one of our new signings playing at centre half was feeling dizzy at the start, yet I wish I could play as well as he did in the first half normally, let alone being dizzy.
Well on the whole it was a good run out. Nathanael scoring our goal with a delightful chip over the goalie. Throughout the game we did try to pass the ball on the snooker table like pitch... I guess its back to a bouncy, wobbly pitch down at the Flats we know so well.
Lets go down to Dagenham and take on Cavendish on 30th Aug with the first half in mind. And erase the second half from our minds.
Blackhorse Rd were very kind for NOT rubbing it in at training on the following Tuesday!!
Squad:
Trevor (Ian);
Sam B (Nathanael), Ian (Trevor), Rowan (Sam B.), Sam R;
David (Natalie), Dwayne, Adi, Calvin (James);
Ferris, Steve.P;
(Ian Howard)
Not on the second half performance!! We enjoyed the fact that we where playing this friendly on Tottenham Ladies Ground. Really good pitch….not for the likes of us….too flat….we are used to some other sort of ‘flats’!!!
However the first half was a really encouraging half for us all. At 0 v 0 we had all put in a good 45 minute shift. Without the manager going off the rails for 2 mins the half could almost be called perfect. Trevor in goal….superb!! (Watch out Steve!) Yet we matched the Champs. They had 2 chances that I guess once the season starts they would have snapped up, however they didn’t.
The second half, well, the boss made a number of changes to make sure everyone got a game and that seemed to upset the balance. As it was a role on role off system it became a little confusing.
Sam B played his heart out in the first half with a cold, Rowen, one of our new signings playing at centre half was feeling dizzy at the start, yet I wish I could play as well as he did in the first half normally, let alone being dizzy.
Well on the whole it was a good run out. Nathanael scoring our goal with a delightful chip over the goalie. Throughout the game we did try to pass the ball on the snooker table like pitch... I guess its back to a bouncy, wobbly pitch down at the Flats we know so well.
Lets go down to Dagenham and take on Cavendish on 30th Aug with the first half in mind. And erase the second half from our minds.
Blackhorse Rd were very kind for NOT rubbing it in at training on the following Tuesday!!
Squad:
Trevor (Ian);
Sam B (Nathanael), Ian (Trevor), Rowan (Sam B.), Sam R;
David (Natalie), Dwayne, Adi, Calvin (James);
Ferris, Steve.P;
(Ian Howard)
Monday, 4 August 2008
Friendly: TPFC 3 Shooting Stars 4
With only 6 weeks to the league season kicking off, all the pre-season training that has been undertaken was put into practice in the first of 3 pre-season friendlies against Shooting Stars at Market Road.
Having played the Stars twice before without success, it was always going to be a tough task, especially with another new look team and 3 debutants again featuring.
And it did start as per the form book, with Shooting Stars taking a one goal lead. But TP soon settled and the football for the majority of the first half was exactly what we want to take into the new season - it was short, quick and simple and moved the opponents all over the place until the killer pass could be found, with Calvin, Ferris and new-boy Steve all looking to get on the end of them. this football led to the equaliser (from Steve) followed by belter of a volley.
The second half started a little rustier, with the Stars determined to keep thier undeafeted record against TP, but the flowing football soon resumed, with nice triangular play around Daniel & Arsan in the middle of midfield, with full backs Dwayne and Miguel always wanting to be involved. Calvin and Frankie on the wings were always looking to get in behind with Steve and Ferris playing on the last men. One quick burst then resulted in a penalty, which Steve thumped in, in spite of the goalkeeper getting 2 full hands behind the ball!
But alas, the writer neglects to talk about the mistakes - one his own - that led to 3 more Stars goals that gave the victory away.
But the positives were there for all to see, and mistakes need to be made now so that they are out of the system ahead of League game number one.
Bring on the Champs!
Team:
Trevor;
Dwayne (Darryl), Azeez, Ian (Nick), Miguel (Natalie);
Calvin, Daniel, Darryl (Arsan), Frankie;
Ferris, Steve;
Having played the Stars twice before without success, it was always going to be a tough task, especially with another new look team and 3 debutants again featuring.
And it did start as per the form book, with Shooting Stars taking a one goal lead. But TP soon settled and the football for the majority of the first half was exactly what we want to take into the new season - it was short, quick and simple and moved the opponents all over the place until the killer pass could be found, with Calvin, Ferris and new-boy Steve all looking to get on the end of them. this football led to the equaliser (from Steve) followed by belter of a volley.
The second half started a little rustier, with the Stars determined to keep thier undeafeted record against TP, but the flowing football soon resumed, with nice triangular play around Daniel & Arsan in the middle of midfield, with full backs Dwayne and Miguel always wanting to be involved. Calvin and Frankie on the wings were always looking to get in behind with Steve and Ferris playing on the last men. One quick burst then resulted in a penalty, which Steve thumped in, in spite of the goalkeeper getting 2 full hands behind the ball!
But alas, the writer neglects to talk about the mistakes - one his own - that led to 3 more Stars goals that gave the victory away.
But the positives were there for all to see, and mistakes need to be made now so that they are out of the system ahead of League game number one.
Bring on the Champs!
Team:
Trevor;
Dwayne (Darryl), Azeez, Ian (Nick), Miguel (Natalie);
Calvin, Daniel, Darryl (Arsan), Frankie;
Ferris, Steve;
Monday, 7 July 2008
And the Trophy goes to...
TPFC were finally presented with thier Sportsman and Behaviour League Winners Trophy on Sunday 6th July in front of the congregation at Tollington Park Baptist Church.
The Family Service that took place saw Ian, John and Samuel reflect on our season past and praise God for his blessing upon the team.
Nish (representing the NELECL) was present to present the trophy, and he also shared his remarkable testimony with the church and how Tollington Park Baptist Church played a role in this also, not to mention the long term results of changing his name to Steve!
Several members of the squad - and our ever loyal following of Nat, Kez & Sonia - were also able to be there in a show of club unity and it was said by Samuel (paraphasing!) - and long may it continue - that we are more than just a football team, we made up of individuals that that have done all they can for one another from the start, when we didn't even know each other!
Has Tollington Park Football Club become an important part of your life? Could it? Will it?
The Family Service that took place saw Ian, John and Samuel reflect on our season past and praise God for his blessing upon the team.
Nish (representing the NELECL) was present to present the trophy, and he also shared his remarkable testimony with the church and how Tollington Park Baptist Church played a role in this also, not to mention the long term results of changing his name to Steve!Several members of the squad - and our ever loyal following of Nat, Kez & Sonia - were also able to be there in a show of club unity and it was said by Samuel (paraphasing!) - and long may it continue - that we are more than just a football team, we made up of individuals that that have done all they can for one another from the start, when we didn't even know each other!Has Tollington Park Football Club become an important part of your life? Could it? Will it?
Monday, 2 June 2008
Friendly: TPFC 1 Shooting Stars 2
A relatively new look TPFC took to the field in a our second friendly match against Shooting Stars, going down narrowly to a 2-1 defeat.
The starting XI, in a rare 442 formation, featured 1 debutant in Azeez and Samuel Ranthe, who had played 1 game prior, featuring as full backs and David Hambridge and Samuel Balogun playing in midfield and attack respectively:
Tim;
Azeez,
Ian,
John,
Samuel Ranthe;
Dwayne,
David,
Daniel,
Calvin;
Samuel,
Nathaneal;
Substitutions (featuring 2 debutants):
Frankie on for Nathaneal;
Darek on for Calvin;
Natalie on for Samuel Ranthe;
Andrew on for John;
The starting XI, in a rare 442 formation, featured 1 debutant in Azeez and Samuel Ranthe, who had played 1 game prior, featuring as full backs and David Hambridge and Samuel Balogun playing in midfield and attack respectively:
Tim;
Azeez,
Ian,
John,
Samuel Ranthe;
Dwayne,
David,
Daniel,
Calvin;
Samuel,
Nathaneal;
Substitutions (featuring 2 debutants):
Frankie on for Nathaneal;
Darek on for Calvin;
Natalie on for Samuel Ranthe;
Andrew on for John;
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