|
|
 |
| HAMPSHIRE PREMIER FOOTBALL LEAGUE |
|
 |
|
Congratulations
COLDEN COMMON
|
| |
 |
| |
|
Puma Engineering Hampshire Premier League
Champions 2009/10
|
| |
|
COMMON ARE CHAMPIONS – AGAIN!
|
| |
|
 |
| Division 1 League |
|
| Champions |
Colden Common |
| Runners-Up |
Team Solent |
| |
|
| League Cup, Winners |
AFC Stoneham |
| Runners-Up |
Paulsgrove |
| |
|
| Combination Division |
|
| Champions |
Winchester Castle Res |
| Runners-Up |
Locks Heath Res |
| |
|
| Combination Cup, Winners |
Otterbourne Res |
| Runners-Up |
Paulsgrove Res |
| |
|
| Aldershot Senior Cup, Quarter-finalists |
Overton United |
| Basingstoke Senior Cup, Quarter-finalists |
Overton United |
| Portsmouth Senior Cup, Semi-finalist |
Locks Heath and Paulsgrove |
| Southampton Senior Cup, Finalists |
Team Solent |
| Hampshire Intermediate Cup, Winners |
Liphook United |
| Hants Intermediate Cup, Semi-finalists |
Fleetlands and QK Southampton |
| Andover Open Cup, Winners |
Otterbourne |
| Aldershot Junior Cup, Finalists |
Liphook United Res |
| North Hants Intermediate Cup, Finalists |
Winchester Castle Res |
|
|
Thursday April 15th, 2010
PEHPFL Senior Division
Common 2, Otterbourne 0
Once again the goalscoring abilities of DEAN HIGGINS and RICH LANG combined to reward a dogged Common display against sprited, determined and talented visitors in the form of local rivals Otterbourne.
The first period saw Common again open brightly with Dave Egerton prompting from midfield as possession was almost totally in favour of the home side. However, the final ball was either missing or wayward and as a result the Otters grew in confidence and started to exert their presence on the home goal. In the wake of a couple of excellent saves from Jamie Flood, Otterbourne's custodian, Ben Goble produced top-drawer reactions on no fewer than three occasions to ensure the home side did not go in at the break behind.
The second period saw this now more even contest continue in the same vein, producing end-to-end foootball. As the half progressed it became clear that something that wee bit special would be required to find the net. Unsurprisingly Dean Higgins provided that 'spark' when he collected a ball from Dan Hansford, flicked it over the defender and from some 25-yards volleyed the ball as it fell and beat the visiting goalkeeper who only moved to remove the ball from the net. Different class. 67-minutes, 1-0.
To their credit Otterbourne responded positively and Karl Salmon, Alex Huxford, Ben Clarke and Ed Carlin (huge credit to Ed who was playing his second 90-minutes in two days having turned out for Common's Reserves at Locks Heath the previous evening) toughed it out with some excellent defending complimented by Ben in goal.
Jordy Parker was beginning to exert an influence and as the game ran into the final five minutes he worked the ball with Deano to release Rich Lang who ran clear on goal, dummied the keeper and slotted the ball home for a 2-0 scoreline.
The visitors continued to posses a threat but it was all but snuffed out by the home side who registered a third win in six days of entertaining football. |
Tuesday April 13th, 2010
PEHPFL Senior Division
Paulsgrove 1, Common 3
With a predominantly young side the visitors had cause to thank two long-serving Commoners, who have earned a 'deadly-duo' reputation, to thank for a 3-1 success.
When the two sides met back in October 2009 at Main Road Paulsgrove secured a 3-1 success so for Common managers Ged Ged and Twinkle a 3-1 away win this evening was ample 'revenge'.
As with all games that have to start so early, the two sides usually take time to settle but on this occasion Common ripped into their Marsden Road hosts and were guilty of some glaring 1st half misses.
However, Common eventually broke the deadlock when DEAN HIGGINS, one half of the 'Duo', coolly converted his 19th league and cup goal of the campaign (158 from 227 1st Team appearances).
The visitors maintained their momentum but could not find a second goal and it seemed the 'writing was on the wall' when Paulsgrove broke away and levelled the scores just before half time. 1-1 at the break.
Paulsgrove were a lot livelier and more dangerous after the break as the game settled into an end-to-end affair.
Common still looked the more likely and indeed goals from the two smallest players on the park (because the Common managers are just a tad shorter off the park) - LIAM MAGEE and RICH LANG - the 'Duos' other half - (his 189th Common 1st Team goal in 241 appearances) scored the goals that secured an invaluable victory as Common continue the battle to retain the league title. |
Saturday March 27th
PEHPFL Combination Division
Sporting BW Res 1, COMMON Res 3 - ABANDONED 82 MINUTES
OLLIE KIRBY SUFFERS BROKEN LEG AND THE AMBULANCE BOOKS IN FOR THE NIGHT
While the hosts took a deserved 1st half lead all the action and 'incident' came after the break.
A strong Common opening 10 minutes brought a couple of chances for Andy Kirby's side but the home side, on a spongy surface, eventually grabbed the initiative and the lead when a cross from the right was headed home without challenge. Waltham then put Common under some continued pressure but, thanks to some excellent last-ditch defending and tremendous goalkeeping from Richard Pearce, the game reached the break with just the one goal scored.
After a half-time 'chat' from the managers - Andy and Trev - Common, with Dean Higgins leading from the front, started brightly and, some 15-minutes into the second period, levelled matters when HIGGINS converted Liam Gilbert's fine defence-splitting pass.Common upped the ante and it wasn't long before AIDEN READ put the Commoners ahead following some fine football involving Elliott Kirby and Matt Lynch.
Still the visitors pushed forward and aside from a few Sporting breakaways were in control. LIAM GILBERT picked the ball up just outside the box and unleashed a wicked shot which took a critical deflection off a home defender to put Common 3-1 ahead.
With just 8 minutes remaining substitute Oliver Kirby challenged the home goalkeeper for a through ball but came off second best and suffered a suspected broken right shin.
The actions and reactions of, in particular, Andy Piller and Dean Higgins cannot be praised highly enough as they comforted and tended to the 16-year-old.
Ultimately the game was abandoned but still there was more drama to come.
The Response team and ambulance arrived rapidly, attended to Ollie and attempted to leave before the ambulance got stuck in the middle of the pitch. Another Ambulance was summoned and duly arrived to take Ollie and mum (Claire) while the original emergency vehicle remained stuck.
It could have been even more 'dramatic' as the groundsman had locked the access gates and was about to drive away - with the Common contingent and ambulance still on the pitch - before young Kieran managed to attract his attention and open up again. |
SATURDAY MARCH 20th, 2010: PEHPFL Senior Division
COLDEN COMMON 2
LYNDHURST 0
By Roger Allen reporting from Main Road
ON a day like this it was appropriate that one of the scorers was called Waters but the Colden Common pitch held up well after the deluge.
Lyndhurst started well, taking the game to Common in the early stages but slowly the home side settled and took the lead after 18 minutes when a defender was penalised for pushing in the area. Scott WATERS scored with the penalty, sending keeper Matt Sturgess the wrong way.
The conditions did not help Common’s long ball game with strikers Rich Lang and Jordan Parker, chasing hopeful balls in vain though Lang shot into the side netting when he beat Sturgess to one through ball.
Towards the end of the half Lyndhurst had a good spell and Craig Barker had a shot blocked when well-placed. Common failed to clear the resulting corner and Dave Nicol in the Common goal had to tip a Pete Hurst shot over the bar.
Lyndhurst made a good start to the second period and both Barker and Chris Hamilton had chances to score.
At the other end, Parker headed wide and Lang had the ball in the net on the hour only to be ruled offside. He went one better on 64 minutes when a long clearance was not dealt with by the Lyndhurst defence and LANG rounded the keeper before sliding the ball into an empty net.
For the remainder of the game the Common defence comfortably held Lyndhurst at bay though on one occasion Pete Haderka fired over and two players failed to connect with a dangerous Hurst free kick.
Lyndhurst can take a lot of credit from this performance against one of the top teams though Common will be pleased to have got back to winning ways after their shock defeat last week.
| |
SATURDAY MARCH 13th, 2010: PEHPFL Senior Division
COMMON 1, QK Southampton 0 |
|
 |
Karl Salmon netted the only goal of an enthralling encounter between two of the league's top three sides.
Before the game managers Ged Ged and Princess had to reshuffle the pack as skipper Dave Egerton was called into work.
Top of the table QK SOUTHAMPTON were the first to show and almost immediately threatened the hosts goal before the Commoners found a level of composure. A stinging shot from the right bounced off the top of the home sides crossbar as QK sought the early initiative.
Common's response was indifferent at times but one break saw Scott Waters feed Jordy Parker whose cross just eluded Dean Higgins and QK cleared. Possession was hard-earned but the hosts were too wasteful in their distribution and gave the ball away too frequently.
Much like our trip to QK a couple of weeks back, the away side enjoyed much the better of the first period and Dave Nicol, Common's custodian, had to be alert throughout. A couple of good chances for the away side were spurned with wayward finishes as the leaders maintained control. Pete Winkle was working his socks off in midfield in an effort to regain some Common control while defensively Alex Huxford, Joshua Carey, Ben Clarke and Ed Carlin were excellent as they either ended a QK raid or made a crucial recovering tackle. |
WINCHESTER CASTLE 1
COLDEN COMMON 0
By Mike Crowfoot reporting from Chilcomb
COMMON back in the title race after last week’s victory over league leaders QK Southampton obviously thought they would have an easy day against Castle who they had beaten 4-1 back in December.
However, a well-organised Castle side made the most of their one piece of luck to pull off an unlikely victory. The bobbly pitch made controlled football difficult and with both teams quickly putting opponents under pressure attractive football was at a premium as were chances with both defences dominating.
Castle had the first chance on 12 minutes as Peter Walker got clear down the right and his cross was met by John Wanless but his tame header was easily gathered by Common keeper Dave Nicol. It was another 19 minutes before Common had their first good chance as Dave Egerton’s corner resulted in a scramble and when the ball fell to Jordan Parker he shot wildly over the bar.
Neither keeper had been called upon to make a save worthy of the name until the 44th minute when a well-flighted free-kick from Ben Morgan was challenged for by Castle’s Rob Kitley, defender Karl Salmon and Nicol - the ball rebounding of the back of KITLEY and into the net to give Castle a fortuitous lead.
Common started the second half with more purpose and Egerton's free kick from 30 yards was deflected for a corner. Egerton’s kick fell to Scott Walters at the far post but Darren Crowfoot in Castle's goal was quickly off his line to block the shot away for another corner. From this corner Common at first appeared to have won a penalty as Richard Lang went to ground but Castle were awarded a free kick for Lang’s foul on his marker Matt Storey.
The game then reverted to a midfield battle until the 54th minute when Castle should have increased their lead as a move down their left cut open the Common defence and let in Kitley who, from an angle, lobbed Nicol, the ball striking the far post and rebounding to Wanless who somehow completed missed his kick and the chance was gone.
With three-quarters of the game gone Common suddenly realised they had to produce more to break down the well-organised hard working Castle side and for a while began to look like they may score as Lang turned his marker but shot into the side netting and then Alex Huxford headed powerfully against the corner of post and bar which, was quickly followed by defender George Roberts blocking Huxford’s shot.
Just minutes later Crowfoot produced the save of the match to maintain Castle’s lead as he somehow managed to tip Dean Higgins shot over the bar. Common kept pressing but seemed to be running out of ideas and Castle were always looking dangerous with their counter attacks.
Common had one last chance in the 86th minute when Higgins slipped his marker but shot just wide of the far post to leave Castle with a hard earned victory and Common's title challenge dwindling.
SATURDAY MARCH 6th, 2010: PEHPFL Senior Division
As the half progressed so the Commoners started to make more of an impression and, after some 37-minutes, they forced the breakthrough. A rapid break down the home sides right saw Waters feed Parker. Jordy worked his way into the right side of the box before crossing to Deano. The ball shot off Deano's shin and the goalkeeper made a reaction save before CARL SALMON hammered in the rebound from some 7 1/2 yards; 1-0 Common, half-time.
After the break the game developed into an even more rivetting end-to-end affair. A Common attack was repelled and QK then sought to level the scores before the hosts surged forward once more only to be denied and set another QK raid in motion.. thrilling stuff.
Liam Magee was enjoying more possession as Common upped their desire and determination while Pete Winkle continued to be the rock upon which the visiting sides midfield stumbled. QK's fluency going forward certainly caused Common problems but when the attack was broken down Common were a very real threat at the other end.
A stunning QK strike struck the bar and two one-on-ones were missed while Common also hit the 'woodwork' - a staggering Higgins free kick - and saw a couple of good opportunities wasted.
Josh Carey was enjoying an excellent game at right back in a defence that was truly outstanding in their cover of the goalkeeper.
Rich soon to be Dad Lang, Paul Rood and Steve Dunn all came off the bench to help ensure that the half-time scoreline remained the full-time result. |
 |
|
Saturday February 20th, 2010
PUMA ENG HAMPSHIRE PREMIER LEAGUE
COMMON’S TITLE HOPES LEFT IN TATA’S ?
Leon leaves it late to settle summit meeting
QK SOUTHAMPTON 1
COLDEN COMMON 0
Ken Babey reports from Lordshill Recreation Ground
LEON Tatavossian smashed an 86th minute winner to decide this enthralling top of the table clash at Lordshill Recreation Ground.
TAKE AIM: Leon Tatavossian (yellow shirt, right) is about to pull the trigger and fire home QK’s winning goal and ABOVE: QK’s Pete Slack holds off two Colden Common defenders.
Both teams needed to make an impression in this top-two clash and from the very first minute Common showed their intent. For the first ten minutes they bombarded the QK goal but the home sides’ defence held fast.
QK then decided it was their turn and the Common defence had to be at their best. As is befitting of a table top game this match was not played in defence, midfield or even up front as both sides wanted to win this game very much. This is the way it stayed until half time when both sides went in 0-0. The half time team talk jarred QK into action and they started the brighter.
In the first minute after the restart, with QK on a roll, Shane Flooks hammered the ball goalbound only to be denied by the post. The QK defence were put into major action again but they managed to keep Common to some long range shots but were still bothered by the occasional surge from the Common forwards. This is how the game progressed and with the idea of a 0-0 draw looming the home side found enough reserve for one last push.
Sensing that the Common defence seemed to be tiring they worked their way into the visitors half and a beautiful weighted ball from Mike Nailor saw TATAVOSSIAN pick up his chance and surged forward with the Common defence flat footed and he neatly placed the ball round the keeper and into the back of the net with just four minutes remaining of normal time.
Two minutes later Shane Flooks sent a shot towards the goal only to see it skim the underside of the bar and out of harms way. With time added on for injuries Common fought tooth and nail until the final whistle went, to leave QK the victors after a thrilling game. |
 |
 |
| |
Saturday February 6th, 2010
PUMA ENG HAMPSHIRE PREMIER LEAGUE
Locks Heath 0, COMMON 6
A TREMENDOUS COMMON DISPLAY IN WHICH EGERTON, HIGGINS, SALMON and WATERS EXCELLED
Despite losing the likes of regulars Alex Huxford and Lloyd Jenvey Colden Common enjoyed their jaunt to Locks Heath as they secured a 6-0 victory against traditionally difficult opponents. Having had to recover from falling going behind in recent matches it made a pleasant change for Common to take the lead when, after a determined start, JORDAN PARKER climbed highest to nod Pete Winkles cross over the home goalkeeper, 0-1. The gane was end=-to-end but the hosts could not breach a strong defence in which Karl Salmon was outstanding, and after another break down the left flank DEAN HIGGINS defeated the offside claims to waltz the ball into the net. 0-2 Still the game was a clash of attack and counter-attack witth Common keeper Dave Nicol equal to all that was thrown at him while his counterpart had cause to rue DAVE EGERTONS 40th-minute free kick from the right edge of the kepers box as the ball sailed past him at the foot of the post and into the net, 0-3. A brilliant, vibrant Common display was improved immediately after the re-start when SCOTT WATERS chipped the goalkeeper to secue a 0-4 advantage for the reigning champions. Although Locks Heath were determined to recover what was, at this stage, a lost cause, Common continued to cause problems for their hosts. A fast break from defence saw Scott Waters find Pete Winkle whose crossfield pass was met by DAVE EGERTON who, from 23.67 yards, sent an arrow-like drive (87.36mph) beyond the home keeper and into the net, 0-5 The final nail was driven by the outstanding DEAN HIGGINS after another 'teamful' flowing move, 0-6. The contributions of youngsters Jordy Parker, Liam Magee and substitutes Callum Magee and Harry Davies cannot be understated in an overall team display that was absolutely outstanding.
02/01/2010
NNo lucky Churms for Solent as Common snatch a point
LAST-GASP GLEE FOR MAGEE
TEAM SOLENT 2 COLDEN COMMON 2
Ian Steele reporting from Hardmoor
COMMON managers Ged Magee and Mick Pratt acknowledged that this was a crucial clash against genuine title challengers and they emphasised the need to be on our game. Unfortunately, for the first 45 minutes the defending champions were not 'on their game'.
Against a slick, mobile, attacking Team Solent side the visitors all too often found themselves second best as the Students pressed forward. Common's custodian, Dave Nicol, was by far the busier but he was comfortable with all that was thrown at him until the 35th minute. Another rapid student raid down Common's right flank saw the ball played back from the by-line and Ben KNELLER was at hand to hammer a rising shot home despite Nicol’s best efforts to deflect the ball over. Almost immediately after taking the lead Team Solent were again forging forward and Kneller's shot was well-saved by Nicol but Leo CHURMS was on hand to knock in the rebound after 42 minutes.
Common now chose to react and Dean Higgins cross was headed toward goal by leading scorer Simon Waters but the home keeper saved comfortably. After a stern half-time 'chat' and the introduction from the bench of Dave Egerton, the visitors started the second period more purposeful and full of fight. Another rapid student raid down Common's right flank saw the ball played back from the by-line and Ben KNELLER was at hand to hammer a rising shot home despite Nicol’s best efforts to deflect the ball over.
Colden Common defender Ben Clarke and Solent’s Leo Churms (red) contest the ball in Common’s 18-yard area /span>Almost immediately after taking the lead Team Solent were again forging forward and Kneller's shot was well-saved by Nicol but Leo CHURMS was on hand to knock in the rebound after 42 minutes.
Common now chose to react and Dean Higgins cross was headed toward goal by leading scorer Simon Waters but the home keeper saved comfortably.
After a stern half-time 'chat' and the introduction from the bench of Dave Egerton, the visitors started the second period more purposeful and full of fight.Lloyd
Jenvey dropped back to replace an exhausted Alex Huxford (his first game for some weeks) and allow Egerton a midfield role but Common were lucky not to fall three goals behind immediately after the re-start. However, gradually the visitors asserted themselves as Liam Magee, Dan Hansford, Egerton and Scott Waters took control of the midfield. Higgins was a hard-working foil for Simon Waters while Kieran Coles, Ed Carlin, Ben Clarke and Jenvey offered greater protection to Nicol in Common's goal.
Colden, although susceptible to Student breakaways, were now in the ascendancy but try as they might a goal seemed no closer. |
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21st, 2009
PUMA ENGINEERING HAMPSHIRE PREMIER LEAGUE, Senior Division
COLDEN COMMON 4 FLEETLANDS 1
Roger Allen reports from Main Road TWO of the League’s heavyweights did battle at Main Road and ultimately it was Colden Common’s more direct style that carried the day in difficult conditions. Both teams could claim to have made the better start. Common generally dominated midfield but Fleetlands carried the greater goal threat as Jack Kirby and Chris Cunningham made progress on the flanks. Playing some neat football Fleetlands eventually took the lead after 22 minutes. Kirby crossed to the far post to Lee CHAMBERS who was allowed space in the penalty area to turn and shoot. All Dave Nicol, the Common keeper, could do was palm the ball into the net.Common were finding it difficult to keep possession but leading goal scorer, Simon Waters, was denied by the woodwork when his header bounced back into play off a post.Just when it looked as though Fleetlands would go in at half time with a lead, they conceded an equaliser in the 44th minute. Scott and Simon Waters combined to set up Lloyd JENVEY whose shot from 25 yards was deflected past Tom Price. Four minutes into the second half Common took the lead with a Route 1 goal. A long clearance was picked up by Simon WATERS and his volley was the finish of a real predator.Colden Common were physically the stronger side and they began to dominate the game. However it was Wayne Emery for Fleetlands who came nearest to scoring as Nicol was forced to tip the ball over from his long range shot. Eventually Common made the game safe with two late goals. First on 82 minutes Simon Waters won a free kick close to the corner of the penalty area. Substitute, Dave EGERTON took the kick and curled the ball over the wall into the net at Price’s near post.Then, in the final minute, the referee awarded Common a penalty, indicating that a defender had pulled an opponent’s shirt. Simon WATERS drove the kick down the middle as Price dived right. The late goals gave the game a misleading scoreline as Fleetlands contributed some good football to an entertaining game.All-in-all an excellent team display with many fine individual performances which sets up next Saturday's Main Road meeting with table-toppers Liphook United.
COMBINATION DIVISION
OTTERBOURNE RES 1, COMMON RES 4
During the first period Common should really have been clear of their hiosts but a muixture of poor finishing, good defending and great goalkeeping left a dominant visiting side just one goal ahead (CALLUM MAGEE).
Dean Higgins, after a few weeks out, was included in Andy Kirby's side and he was the catalyst for most of what Common created especially during the first forty-five. At the back Colden were indebted to Jack Flood on more than one occasion as Otterbourne Res threatened to break through.
After the break Common fell asleep and could not raise their game as The Otters dominated proceedings. It was no surprise when the hosts equalised but it was surprising that a shot beat custodian Ben Goble as he had been outstanding. After a few more scares, again wiith Jack Flood proving impassable and Matt Wardlaw also defensively strong while also being creative, Common eventually turned the game in their favour when AIDEN REED converted a wayward clearance from The Otters replacement keeper (the original custodian had to go off injured). Further strikes from DEAN HIGGINS and CALLUM MAGEE secured a fine 4-1 success and a further three points for Common Res.
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 7th
HAMPSHIRE INTERMEDIATE CUP, Third Round
Paulsgrove 2, COMMON 5
Colden Common came into this game without a number of senior players, but the lads called into the squad gave a good account of themselves and in the end ran out comfortable 5-2 winners. An early chance for Paulsgrove was spurned when Horstead broke through, but his shot was met by a great save from Dave Nicol. The first real chance for Common arrived on 16 minutes when Simon Waters raced through, but his shot was superbly saved by the Paulsgrove keeper. Five minutes later Waters was again frustrated by the Paulsgrove stopper, put through by a superb ball by Winkle, but his shot again was met by a great save. Common continued to dominate possession, and took the lead on 41 Minutes through Liam Magee who was on hand to head the ball into the net from close range after Paulsgrove failed to clear their lines. The visitors added a second on 44 minutes, with a wonder goal from Lloyd Jenvy, volleying in from 25 yards after a superb headed lay off from Magee. The second half saw an improved battling performance from the home side, and could have scored within a minute of the start, but for a great save from Nicol. Continued pressure from Paulsgrove brought a deserved goal on 59 minutes when Common failed to clear their lines and Horstead cooly slotted the ball into the net from the edge of the box. Two minutes later Common had their two goal cushion back when Waters stretched to meet a shot from Dunne to steer the ball into the net. The impressive and hard working Pete Winkle increased the visitors lead for Common on 64 minutes, firing home from outside the box, after some great through ball from Magee. Paulsgrove refused to throw the towel in and pulled a goal back on 68 minutes, after some slack defending from the visitors. Common eventually put the game to bed on 79 minutes when Magee raced through and picked out Waters, who added his second of the game. This was a pleasing and well deserved team performance from Common, and credit must go to Steve Dunn and Dan Harris who stepped up from the Reserves to put in really good performances in midfield, and prove that the club has good strength in depth.Ged Magee – Joint First Team ManagerSaturday
Saturday 10th October 2009:
Hampshire Premier League, Senior Division
COMMON 1, Paulsgrove 3
Ged Ged and Mick were disappointed that their side let this one slip as missed chances were to cost Common dear with a first home league loss of the campaign.
The hosts opened brightly and were unfortunate in the opening ten minutes when a Dean Higgins effort clipped the bar and soon after Lloyd Jenvey inadvertently diverted the ball away from Deano's foot some six yards out! Almost immediately Paulsgrove broke away with Steve Leigh feeding the ball forward and LIAM HORSTED finishing excellently with a crisp shot to Dave Nicol's left.
The pace that was the key to Paulsgrove's goal was to cause Common problems when The Grove released themselves from some considerable home pressure. Although the home side dominated possession for long spells they were unable to provide the neccessary final ball or found an uncompromising and superbly organised visiting defence impossible to breach.
Paulsgrove gained a foothold in the game again and their lightning raids, fuelled by precision distribution, kept Common's defence busy and Dave Nicol on his toes. The second half started with a more direct and busy Common causing all sorts of panic in the Grove defence but several chances and half-chances could not be converted until Dave Egerton received the ball wide on the right and his pin-point cross picked out LIAM MAGEE who finoished well. 1-1
Common then took their foot off the gas and the game was played between penalty boxes as each side sparred for an opening. Again Lee Kelly, Alex Huxford, Ben Clarke and Karl Salmon had to be alive and alert in Common's back line to deny Paulsgrove openings while,at the other end Dean Higgins continued to cause problems and, with the introduction of Ollie Forbes, a stronger presence up front was again causing problems.
A couple of excellent chances - Ben Clarke and Ollie Forbes, the latter missing his kick in front of an open goal - were spurned and, on 85 minutes, DAN DONALD benefitted from a lightning Paulsgrove break down our right as he expertly slipped the ball past Nics. In the closing mninutes Common's efforts became more frantic and they lieft themselves open to a long ball which LIAM HORSTED converted expertly for his second and Paulsgrove's third.
As stated, a disappointment for Common and we must learn to convert chances but there was much to come out of this game which was an excellent advert for the Puma Engineering Hampshire Premier League.
The two sides meet again at Marsden Road in the Hampshire Intermediate Cup on November 7th.
3rd October 2009:
Hampshire Intermediate Cup, 2nd Round
COMMON 7, Solent WTL 3
In the wake of successive losses Common managers Ged Ged Magee and Mick Pratt demanded a response from their players in a competition which has seen the Commoners make a considerable mark over recent years. Common's visitors, Southampton Premiers Solent WTL came into the game on the back of a 12 -3 victory!!
With five players out injured and three unavailable Common's resources were stretched to the limit (with the Reserves feeling the impact) the managers had to juggle the assembled throng including Brian Newman who later claimed that as he was over 70 years of age he felt he lacked the neccessary edge to his fitness!!
A vibrant atmosphere in the home dressing room was transferred to the pitch and PAUL ROOD opened the scoring for Common on four minutes. During an outstanding opening 40-minutes during which both Mick and Ged Ged acknowledged the Main Road side were at their very best, Common netted a further three goals from LIAM MAGEE (19), LLOYD JENVEY (33, his first 1st Team goal for Common) and leading scorer SIMON WATERS (37), but they also conceded two on 24 and 39. 4-2 at the break
Nerves jangled soon after the re-start as Solent WTL, who held an obvious goalscoring threat, netted a third on 60 minutes; 4-3. However, Common restored their doiminance and started moving the ball around once again. The scoreline did not reflect the home sides dominance until WATERS netted his second after 75 and MAGEE completed a first-ever 1st Team hat-trick with strikes on 78 and 88 minutes to make the final tally 7-3.
26th September 2009:
PE Hampshire Premier League, Senior Division
Fleetlands 3, COMMON 2
Having suffered their first loss of the campaign the previous week, Common contrived to suffer a first league defeat tis afternoon when hosts FLEETLANDS registered an odd-goal-in-five success.
The omens were not good after just five minutes for Ged's and Mick's Commoners as they found themselves 2-0 down!! Although returnee RICHARD LANG reduced the arrears after eight minutes Common then lost his services to an ankle injury. DEAN HIGGINS notched his seventh of the campaign to draw the two sides level after 38 minutes and p[arity remained at the break.
Chances were few and far between after the break but Simon Waters had a glorious opportunity nthat just would not go in during the closing stages before a spectacular overhead kick by one of Fleetlands forwards netted the Gosport-side their winner.
Successive defeats is disappointing after such a strong start for the reigning champions but the number of goals conceded in those games is even more alarming.
HANSFORD HAT-TRICK BURIES OVERTON
DAN HANSFORD netted a hat-trick this afternoon as Andy Kirby's Common Reserves defeated visiting Overton United Reserves 5-1.
A bright opening by Common - featuring Richard Pearce in between the sticks for the first time this term - saw them open a two-goal advantage with two excellent Hansford finishes some twenty minutes in. However, the hosts then relaxed, thinking the game was over, and Overton came at them strongly. Half time 2-0
After the break Common conceded a sloppy goal and for half-an-hour Overton were the more coherent, dangerous side. However, some excellent goalkeeping, wayward finishing and three inspired substitutions meant that Common Res found their way again. Hansford netted his third from the spot after Conor Parker was brought down before two of those three subs - Callum Magee and Conor Parker - each found the net with outstanding finishes to secure the 5-1 result and the points.
19th September 2009:
Southampton Senior Cup, 1st Round
SPARTANS SPARKLE WHILE COMMON CRUMBLE
COMMON 4, Spartans 6
Last season's Southampton Senior Cup semi-finalists, Colden Common, will not have a chance to repeat that achievement this term as the Hampshire Premier League leaders were ousted by an excellent Spartans side from the Southampton Premier League. Including ex-Commoner David Gray Spartans took the lead after just one minute and, although the hosts took a 3-2 (Higgins, Magee, Atterbury) half-time advantage, the 'underdogs' made Common suffer after the break with four unanswered goals to move 3-6 in front. A late Common consolation (Higgins) meant little as aspirations of appearing at St. Mary's once again bit the dust. Much credit to Spartans who thoroughly deserved their victory and we wish them well in future rounds.
Combination Division:
Liss Athletic Res 1, COMMON RES 3>
An outstanding first half dispay from Andy Kirby's young side - in which 'experienced' Lloyd Jenvey was tremendous - saw the visitors take a three goal advantage into the break. Connor Parker, Aaron Blyth and Lloyd Jenvey all found the net while some three other good chances were spurned.
After the break the hosts found some form and, despite some excellent Ben Goble goalkeeping, managed to reduce the arrears but Common held on before again dominating in the latter stages to secure a second three point haul of the campaign,
12th September 2009:
PEHPFL Senior Division - Overton United 1, COMMON 2
OFF THE BENCH AND ONTO THE SCORESHEET
League leaders Common recorded their eighth straight league and cup win on Saturday but a muted display ensured that the three points were difficult to come by.
Substitute Dean Higgins netted a brace (45 and 64 min) to recover an early deficit and force a win against dogged home opposition this afternoon. The win was Common's eighth on the bounce but Overton will feel hard-done-by after they took the lead during an awful Colden 1st half display. Still, awful it may have been, but the visitors were level before the break to demonstrate that the league leaders were still capable of causing damage.
Injuries to James Atterbury (during the warm up), leading scorer Simon Waters, defensive maestro Alex Huxford and silky midfield player Jordan Parker meant that there was mass disruption for Common during the game but, after a half-time Mick Pratt grilling, the side responded and battled for a hard-earned three points courtesy of those two Dean Higgins strikes.
Disappointingly some questionable linesman 'decisions' led to a bout of 'handbags' between officials from both clubs and one from each was removed from the line.
Saturday September 5th, 2009
Hampshire Intermediate Cup
Common 7, Durley 4
JORDY GEMS SAVE COMMON BLUSHES
Hampshire League (2004) Durley gave their hosts a massive fright this afternoon before The Commoners secured safe passage to the second round of the Hampshire Intermediate Cup.
There ccan be no complaint about lack of goals but managers Mick and Ged would rather a 1-0 every week!!
Within fifteen minutes the hosts were 2-0 and then 2-1 ahead courtesy of Jordy Parker and Dean Higgins before Paul Rood netted after 28 - 3-1. Durley were proving a handful going forward and they were unfortunate not to reduce the arrears before an Own Goal gave the home side a 4-1 advantage at the break.
4-1 became 4-2 soon after half-time and then Jordy claimed Commoner-f-the-Match honours with a second half hat-trick which was interspersed by a further two Durley goals.
The final scoreline reflects genuine praise on our visitors for their attitude, application adn ability going forward while we must really address a mindset that sometimes says before the game starts... 'this ones in the bag...' and we then struggle to put anything of quality together>
31st August 2009:
PEHPFL Senior Division -
Otterbourne 0, COMMON 1
DEADLY DEAN DECIDES DERBY
A Dean Higgins strike after some 21-minutes of this open local derby was sufficient for Common to gain three points for a sixth consecutive success. Although there was just a solitary goal the game could have finished 3-5 based on genuine chances created!!
A good crowd gathered at picturesque Oakwood Avenue and they certainly got value for money with some outstanding football, up to the edge of each box, and missed chances aplenty coupled with some tremendous goalkeeping. Dave Nicol was, again, different class and it was he who all Commoners should thank as he blocked a 'certain' goal midway through the second period.
Lee Kelly, James Atterbury, Carl Salmon and Alex Huxford - alongside Nics (or 'Coco' as he was nicknamed by an errant Otters supporter) were tremendous with Plasterer Kelly earning the hat. However, do not think we were constantly on the defensive, far from it. Dave Egerton inspired countless attacking positions with his marvellous distribution while Deano and Simon Waters worked their socks off - literally in Muddys case as he was eventually given a rest having netted 11 in six - and Roody ignored a dead leg to aid the Common Cause.
Overall it was comforting to know that although we failed to raise our game to great heights we managed, again, to secure maximum points and lead the table by four.
Managers Mick and Ged were delighted with a sixth straight win
29th August 2009: PEHPFL Senior Division -
COMMON 2, Clanfield 1
"Despite giving a rather 'tired' display we were fortunate enough to have taken all three points when a draw would have been a fairer reflection." Those were the words of manager Mick Pratt following his sides fifth consecutive victory this afternoon. Goals from SIMON WATERS (eleven in five) and PAUL ROOD - one in each half - gave the table toppers a 2-1 victory over a visiting Clanfield side that can feel rather hard done by. DAVE NICOL, Common's custodian, was awarded the Commoner of the Match award - he does look fetching hatted and booted - after another outstanding display of goalkeeping.
Combination Division -
Clanfield Reserves 1, COMMON RESERVES 1
Trevor Flood guided his Common Reserve side - in the absence of manager Andy Kirby - to a hard-earned and well deserved point against a talented and obdurate Clanfield Reserve side. Both teams fielded predominantly young sides and the game proved to be one of thrust and counter-thrust. Common went ahead with, probably, the best move of the match started by goalkeeper Rich Pearce and finished by SIMON BLAXALL. Common held the upper hand for the remainder of the half - albeit with a few scares, generally 'sorted' by Rich Pearce, along the way - and started the second period ahead. However, the hosts were now up for the scrap and they held the upper hand for a good 30 minutes during which time they equalised after some sloppy defending. Both sides hit the woodwork three times, both were guilty of glaring misses and both brought fine saves from the opposing goalkeeper. Final scorer 1-1.
25th August 2009:
PEHPFL Senior Division - AFC Stoneham 1, COMMON 3
For the second consecutive game Colden fell behind to a well structured and finished goal from their hosts but showed tremendous character and application to overturn the deficit and inflict a first loss on the home side.
On a gloriously sunny evening the game opened at a lively pace with both sides enjoying their 'moments'. Some overly-aggressive tackling was dealt with well by referee Lucy May before Stoneham poured forward to break the deadlock on twenty minutes. Common responded well, after some further home side pressing, and attacked 'up' the right flank. The ball was played to Dean Higgins who looked up and sent a glorious cross for SIMON WATERS to net with a looping header which the home goalkeeper could not cope with.
As Mick Prat's and Ged Magee's side grew further in confidence on a difficult surface so they found the best move of the match. Dave Nicol threw the ball out to release Karl Salmon. Jason Ahmet and Paul Rood then moved the ball on to Dave Egerton who played the ball acros goal for PETER WINKLE to convert. 1-2 at half-time
The second period saw both goalkeepers initially under used but bit-by-bit Stoneham worked their way back into the game and Common can be thankful that a 'casual' spell ended with some woeful home finishing and the frame of the goal 'getting in the way'.
However, having brought on Liam Magee, Rich Lang (such an inspirational player to have in the squad) and Jordan Parker, Common, in the last ten minutes regained the upper hand and it was the icing on the cake when Common poured forward and JORDAN PARKER converted Dean Higgins cross-field ball. Final score 1-3 LEE KELLY was deservedly named Commoner of the Match
22nd August 2009:
PEHPFL Senior Division COMMON 2, LOCKS HEATH 1
WATERS TO THE RESCUE
After the game, which proved to be an excellent advertisement for Hampshire Premier League football, hosts Colden Common had retained their 700px record with an odd-goal-in-three success.
Any neutrals amongst the large gathered contingent at Main Road would probably suggest that a draw would have been a fairer reflection, but remember as well as MAKING chances you have to TAKE them to have any impact on the scoreline.
The visitors settled sooner than the hosts and were grateful to custodian Dave Nicol who produced two outstanding saves to keep Locks Heath out. Common were not to be out-done however and were unfortunate not to take the lead when James Atterbury's header crashed against corner of post and crossbar. The deadlock was broken after Common failed to clear their lines and conceded a corner. From the resulting kick Steve Leigh netted with a diving header at the far post. 0-1.
The hosts were the under the cosh as The Heathens looked to further improve their advantage but a combination of wasteful finishing and outstanding Common defending - Carl Salmon was exemplary - kept the visitors out.
As the half drew to a close Common upped their game and started to pressurise the visitors. Jason Ahmet prompted the lads and probed with his distribution to seek a way through a determined defence and, after a sustained period of attacking, Common levelled matters when JAMES ATTERBURY directed a bullet header into Locks Heath's goal. 1-1
The second period started with a bang when SIMON WATERS netted his ninth goal in three games to give the hosts a 2-1 lead. The second half was then thrust and counter-thrust as each side looked to either further their advantage of, in Locks Heath case, restore parity. However, despite a sustained late period of Locks Heath dominance the visitors could not breach our superb defence, marshalled by Man of the Match Dave Nicol, and in which James Atterbury, Lee Kelly, Ben Clarke and Carl Salmon were tremendous as Common extended their winning run to three games.
18th August 2009: PEHPFL -
Sporting Bishops Waltham 0, Common 9.
MUDDY MARVELLOUS
SIMON 'MUDDY' WATERS netted five in this crushing defeat of hosts Sporting Bishops Waltham, to take his season's tally to EIGHT after just two games!! A glorious evening greeted both sides and an open game ensued with Common's strikeforce of Dean Higgins and Simon Waters causing the hosts major problems. However, Sporting were also causing a few problems with their pace up front but Dave Nicol, Common custodian, kept any attempts out of harms way and marshalled his defence excellently. Common moved into the lead following excellent work from Jason Ahmet, James Atterbury and Dave Egerton who combined to release Deano who fired home. 'Muddy' Waters then joined the party netting twice before the break and Paul Rood was rewarded for his stooping header with Common's fourth just before the break.
The seaond period saw Common relax a little and the hosts could well have reduced the arrears but for some outstanding defending - exemplified by Alex Huxford and Karl Salmon - before Colden found the goals again. Muddy netted a second half hat-trick to take his game tally to five while Dean Higgins netted a second and Peter Winkle opened his account for the season. The final scoreline of 0-9 was, probably, flattering but our managerial partnership were delighted with a a second clean sheet, a second win and a second boost top our confidence.
Finally, despite the hugely bad news that club skipper LEE SMITH has both damaged ligaments and suffered a broken bone behind the knee, it was a massive boost to the lads to see him at the game. Well done Smithy. Incidentally, many, many thaks to Dean Higgins who travelled with Lee to the hospital on Saturday and stayed with him until his 'release' late on Saturday evening.
On Saturday Locks Heath visit Main Road. KO 3pm
15th August 2009: PEHPFL -
Common 6, Bournemouth University 0
SKIPPER INJURY TAKES GLOSS OFF WINNING START
Colden Common FC opened their defence of the Puma Angineering Hampshire Premier League Championship with a crushing Main Road defeat of the students from Bournemouth University on Saturday. Under new managerial team MICK PRATT and GED MAGEE Common opened the scoring after just one minute when DAVE EGERTON drilled home following good work from Dean Higgins and Simon Waters. As Common had gained an advantage so early the game became one of thrust and counter-thrust - the hosts looking to extend the lead, the visitors seeking parity. However, it was not until some 8 minutes from the break that the next goal came, Common's LEE KELLY converting a penalty. In the very next attack Colden made it three when DEAN HIGGINS capitalised on good work from debutant Ed Carlin and Peter Winkle to net his first goal of the campaign; Common's third.
After the break the students were keen to reduce the arrears and they were awarded a penalty just two minutes into the second period. The University striker shaped well and struck the ball toward the corner but Common custodian, Dave Nicol, was equal to it and produced a tremendous save to inspire his side still further. SIMON WATERS then took centre stage as he converted THREE in the space of 17 minutes - 73rd, 84th and 90th - to register a fine hat-trick.
Disappointingly LEE SMITH - club skipper for the first time - suffered a significant injury (possibly cruciate) having contested the ball in the visitors penalty area some ten minutes into the second period and he was stretchered off the field. We would like, at this stage to offer our sincere thanks to a passing St John's Ambulance crew who tended Lee for the hour it took an ambulance to arrive from Winchester!!
James Atterbury earned the Hat for his Man-of-the-Match display but there were several other candidates in an excellent team display. Well done guys.
Ultimately both Ged and Mick were massively upset at Lee's injury but delighted with a thoroughly 'professional' display from their side.
FRIENDLY ENCOUNTERS: Common commenced pre-season action with a visit to HAMBLE ASSC (1-2) before tripping across the Solent to meet BRADING TOWN (0-2) . Although both games ended in defeat new managers Ged and Mick were delighted with both the response they drew and the effort put in by the lads. There was much to admire from each game as far as Common is concerned and they have shown, so far, that competition for places in the squad will e stern. We then ventured to BLACKFIELD & LANGLEY FC who had kindly invited us to take part in the NEW FOREST CARE CUP, a pre-season competition involving this season Blackfield, Hythe & Dibden, Gosport Borough and ourselves. Our 'semi-final' encounter was against hosts Blackfield and we unfortunately went down by 2-0 against our Wessex Premier hosts. The 3rd and 4th place play-off (in which we met Hythe & Dibden who had lost to Gosport Borough in the other semi-final) was played on Saturday August 1st and, with goals from SIMON WATERS (2), DAVE EGERTON and CALLUM MAGEE, we secured a 4-0 success. The first two goals were magnificent strikes from Simon and Dave respectively while Muddy's second and Callum's first Common goal were the result of some excellent attacking football.NEW MANAGERIAL DUO: Friday June 18th, 2009: Colden Common FC is both delighted and excited to announce the appointment of it's First Team management partnership. In the wake of the previous regime which took Common to the top of the Hampshire Premier Football League we have appointed GED MAGEE and MICK PRATT as joint managers. They both have long associations with CCFC and were influential players in the successful Saturday and Sunday sides around the late 1980's early 1990's. Dedicated, committed and each with abundant amounts of football ability Ged and Mick acknowledge that their first senior managerial appointment will be no easy ride but they, like the club, are full of anticipation at what this partnership can achieve.
LOOKING AHEAD WITH ANTICIPATION: While sifting through and sorting the various applications we have received for their management roles at CCFC, the club continues it's preparations for next season.
The defence of our PEHPFL title commences on Saturday August 15th and, to prepare for that first day, pre-season training starts on THURSDAY JULY 2nd - 7pm at Main Road. All are welcome to increase competition for places in a strong squad.
Pre-season friendlies also have a competitive edge added as we have been invited to enter the NEW FOREST CARE CUP tournament being held at Blackfield & Langley FC.
|
 |
SIMON EVERETT - Double 1st Team award winner
Simon who enjoyed a fabulous season, secured both Players and Managers Player of the Year - a Common first as no other player has scooped both awards in the past...
Many congratulations Simon
 Right: A frightening duo: JOE HADFIELD and DAN HARRIS recreate the most frightening scene from a horror movie.... oh, sorry, no they didn't, they just posed for the camera!?!?!? |
|
|
|
|
