|
01 Sep 07 |
Friendly |
Home |
Hanslope |
W |
6-0 |
Jamie 3, Will 2, Dan |
|
09 Sep 07 |
Lge |
Away |
Brookfield Rangers |
L |
2-5 |
Jamie(2) |
|
16 Sep 07 |
Lge |
Home |
Steeple Claydon |
W |
3-2 |
Dan, Jamie(2) |
|
23 Sep 07 |
Cup |
Home |
West Bletchley |
L |
0-18 |
|
|
30 Sep 07 |
Lge |
Home |
Two Mile Ash Sports |
D |
2-2 |
Will, Haydon |
|
07 Oct 07 |
Lge |
Home |
Downs Barn B |
W |
3-2 |
Jamie(2), Andrew |
|
14 Oct 07 |
Lge |
Home |
Woodside Wanderers |
D |
2-2 |
Jack G, Andrew |
|
21 Oct 07 |
|
|
No Game |
|
|
|
|
28 Oct 07 |
|
|
No Game |
|
|
|
|
04 Nov 07 |
Lge |
Home |
Deanshanger |
L |
1-7 |
Jack R |
|
11 Nov 07 |
Cup |
Home |
Brookfield Rangers |
L |
2-4 |
Jamie, Jack R |
|
18 Nov 07 |
|
|
Free Weekend |
|
|
|
|
25 Nov 07 |
Lge |
Home |
Wootton Blue Cross |
L |
2-6 |
Jack R, Andrew |
|
02 Dec 07 |
Lge |
Home |
Wing Raiders |
L |
0-2 |
|
|
09 Dec 07 |
Lge |
Away |
Hanslope Hornets |
W |
3-5 |
Jack R (3), Jamie, Jack G |
|
16 Dec 07 |
Lge |
Away |
Bromham Youth Lions |
L |
6-1 |
Jack R |
|
23 Dec 07 |
|
|
No fixture |
|
|
|
|
30 Dec 07 |
|
|
No fixture |
|
|
|
|
06 Jan 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Wootton Blue Cross |
L |
5-1 |
Jack R |
|
13 Jan 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Two Mile Ash Sports |
D |
3-3 |
Jack G, Dan, Jamie |
|
20 Jan 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Wing Raiders |
P |
P |
|
|
27 Jan 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Woodside Wanderers |
D |
2-2 |
Jack G, Jack R |
|
03 Feb 08 |
Lge |
Home |
Bromham Youth Lions |
L |
0-4 |
|
|
10 Feb 08 |
Lge |
Home |
Brookfield Rangers |
L |
0-3 |
|
|
17 Feb 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Steeple Claydon |
P |
P |
|
|
24 Feb 08 |
Lge |
Home |
Hanslope Hornets |
D |
2-2 |
Will, Andrew |
|
02 Mar 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Leighton Corinthian Eagles |
W |
1-2 |
Jamie, Jack R |
|
09 Mar 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Downs Barn B |
W |
1-4 |
Jack R (3), Jamie |
|
16 Mar 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Deanshanger Colts |
P |
|
|
|
23 Mar 08 |
|
|
No Game |
|
|
|
|
30 Mar 08 |
|
|
No Game (MKDons) |
|
|
|
|
06 Apr 08 |
|
|
Free Weekend |
|
|
|
|
13 Apr 08 |
|
|
No Game |
|
|
|
|
20 Apr 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Steeple Claydon |
W |
2-6 |
Jack R (3), David P (2), Ben T |
|
27 Apr 08 |
Friendly |
Home |
Hanslope |
L |
3-4 |
Jack G (2), Haydon |
|
30 Apr 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Deanshanger |
L |
11-2 |
Haydon, Luke |
|
04 May 08 |
Lge |
Away |
Wing Raiders |
L |
6-1 |
Dan |
|
11 May 08 |
|
|
Free Weekend |
|
|
|
|
18 May 08 |
Lge |
Home |
Leighton Corinthian Eagles |
L |
0-5 |
|
Steeple Claydon Tournament - Under 14's Rooks and Ravens
Game on for the Under 14's Rooks (playing in Club second colours of Yellow).
Ravens line up for the day
Players and supporters 'take it easy'
Rooks line up for the day
Great Horwood Ravens 0 Leighton Corinthian Eagles 5
League
(18 May 2008)
The Ravens ended their 11-a-side season with a below par performance against a team they had beaten earlier in the year. A lack of tackling in midfield saw the team stretched at the back to concede the opening goal. This was quickly followed a very good strike that was just too much for Luke in goal. David R was being his usual robust self in defence, tackling as though his life depended on it, but overall the defence was being called upon too often as the visitors broke out.
A good attacking run from Will ended with a slightly over hit pass for Dan in the middle. Again the gaps in the centre of midfield were causing defensive problems. A good run from Jamie ended with him isolated and no support. Jack R entered the play and started to cause some problems for the opposition. Positional play from the midfield was poor as they all bombed forward again leaving a big gap behind them. As the half progressed Horwood improved to play some better football through the middle but just missed out on that final pass.
2-0 at half time.
The second half started and again needed Luke to pull off a great save. Strong defending from Ben Y was followed by a great run from Will ending in a shot just high and wide. James H then burst forward only to be foiled by a brave keeper taking the ball off of his toe. Some good moves from Ben Y, Will and Jamie was foiled by the defence before Dan laid on a great pass for Jack R to blast at the goal requiring a great save from the keeper followed by another save as Will picked up the rebound.
Good defence from the Ravens followed but Leighton were applying pressure so some of the defence became a bit desperate. Luke made a brilliant save with his foot to foil the lone striker. Leighton were marauding forward as they outnumbered the defenders needing David R to tackle anything that moved.
Some of the lads were losing some discipline as they bunched, allowing more space for Leighton and exercising Luke in goal with some magnificent saves. At the other end we were still creating chances and the Leighton keeper was having an equally impressive time saving again from Jack R.
Another good pass over the top from Ben O had Jack R running in on goal again only to be foiled again. Leighton then had a couple of goals with balls over the top and went onto enjoy some further pressure as the Ravens failed to clear effectively, inviting pressure from repeated corners.
Overall, a disappointing game that promised much, but delivered an 'end of season' effort from the Ravens.
Next season a new dawn will begin with a plan from management to coach new methods and allow the lads to reach their potential. We need to continue our 'season on season' improvement but step up the rate of improvement.
One season ends but roll on next year as the possibilities are already very bright!!!
Wing Raiders 6 Great Horwood Ravens 1
League
Scorers:- Dan
(4 May 2008)
A really good game from the Ravens with a score line that doesn't reflect the effort shown by all players due to a poor last ten minutes when they conceded cheap goals. A completely different atmosphere from the last game saw the Ravens bounce back and show patches of good form throughout.
Both teams played high up the pitch creating a compact game in the middle and a few heart stopping moments as breaks down both wings needed some sharp defending from the back four, particularly David.
The first goal mouth action saw Wing hit the post from an impressive over head kick. Luke was seeing a lot of the ball but at the other end Haydon was being busy and both Jamie and Will were trying to make way down the wings. Dan was introduced up front to try and keep hold of the ball and he performed the task very well for the remainder of the game.
The high line being held by the Ravens was eventually broken when Wing slotted home the opener. At 1-0 the Ravens fought hard to contain the home team and went in to the break with just the solitary goal separating the teams.
The second half saw some good play again by the Ravens culminating in an equaliser from Dan after an overhead kick from Haydon played him in. At 1-1 it was a very even game but the home side always looked more dangerous on the break.
The Ravens then conceded a poor goal from a throw in to give the lead to Wing and then slowly started to go off the boil. The team still failed to 'hit the corners' as instructed and invited pressure by keeping the ball straight down the middle. With just ten minutes to go the Manager decided to mix up the team to stop the slide as Luke was being called on to make more and more saves and the defence were starting to be overrun.
The master plan backfired as the changes disrupted the remaining rhythm of the team and the last ten minutes saw four late goals conceded for another poor result. A real shame as the lads had performed so well for the previous 60 minutes.
We shouldn't be downhearted about this game, the lads proved again they can play the game at a high standard. We should now look forward to our last game in a couple of weeks time against Leighton and aim to end the season on a high with a repeat performance from the last time we played them.
Deanshanger 11 Great Horwood Ravens 2
League
Scorers:- Haydon, Luke
(30 April 2008)
A cold miserable evening for a cold miserable game.
The lads were basically not used to playing on such a small pitch and the home team made the most of the conditions with some speed and aggression that the Ravens struggled to cope with.
Not wanting to comment too much about the standard of sportsmanship on display, the highlights of the game were the penalty taken straight down the middle by Haydon and the goal scored by Luke direct from a goal kick (an indication of the pitch size).
Other highlights were the bruising encounters enjoyed by Ben Y and David R at the back, the strength shown by Ben O and the magnificent display in goal by Luke. David R in particular should be commended for keeping a cool head. A Man of the Match performance by David P was not enough to stop the consistent conceding of goals as the Ravens failed to make the most of any width.
However, to their credit the Ravens did try to play football throughout the game. I think we will just put this one down to a bad a day at the office, learn from the experience and move on to the next game.
Great Horwood Ravens 3 Hanslope Hornets 4
Friendly
Scorers:- Jack G (2), Haydon
(27 April 2008)
A fantastic start to the game saw Jack Goodger score twice within the first two minutes. Unusually for the Ravens they were really on the pace from the first whistle. Successive attacks created chances before Jack G took his first goal and then his second with a header after a corner.
The team played well from then on but a little over confidence crept in to allow the visitors to pull a goal back . The Ravens were again playing good football and looking for a ball through the middle. We could have benefited from getting the ball a little wider but Hanslope were struggling to find any rhythm.
Changes in team formation were to blame for the equaliser as throw in and defensive duties were upset, causing a break down our left from which they scored against the run of play. 2-2 at half time and a change in keeper to give Ollie his debut at this level.
The second half saw much the same pattern as the first. With just a little more thought and better decision making the Ravens could have had a hatful of goals. As it was, several chances went begging before Haydon burst through to slot the ball home on the second attempt. A well deserved goal in a Man of the Match performance form Haydon.
The Ravens also hit the post as well as whizzing the ball past the woodwork on several occasions. But it was decision making that failed them most, passing when they should have shot or shooting greedily when others were in far better positions. It turned into being just one of those days. Defence were always under pressure playing with a very attacking formation but Hanslope slowly started pushing more and more players forward as the game became stretched.
Ollie made some great one-on-one saves but eventually Hanslope scored an equaliser and then a really soft winner when the ball somehow found its way over the line.
Overall, a pleasing game to watch but disappointing to lose a game that all the home spectators and players thought they should have won easily. I am sure Hanslope would have a different perspective but from our point of view considering the number of changes and debuts being made we showed real strength in depth playing opposition that are sitting in 4th place in the division. Roll on Deanshanger on Wednesday....
Steeple Claydon 2 Great Horwood Ravens 6
League
Scorers:- Jack R (3), David P (2), Ben T
(20 April 2008)
A slightly rusty performance was still enough to see off Claydon and on the way record our second double of the season ( making just two losses in the last eight games). Jack Reynolds recorded another hat trick and Ben Turner opened his account for the season. The other couple being put away by David Powley ... all good stuff!!!
Because we hadn't played for so long everyone who was available descended on Steeple Claydon to get our season back up and running. A slow start to the game saw Ben Y making good runs down the left but also some loose marking by Horwood. Claydon were putting the pressure on causing Luke to pull off a great save but they also put one over the bar before the Ravens started to get their act together.
A great ball from James B out to Andy ended with a corner for Horwood. The Ravens then played some effective 'Route 1' football with Luke's great kick finding Jack R to run on and open the scoring. A style of goal we have normally conceded so it was pleasing to get one at the other end.
Soon after Claydon hit their own ball over the top to equalise. Not to be outdone, Luke again hit another good ball with this time David Powley using his strength to just get past the defender and hit the ball home, restoring the lead at 2-1. From then on it was mainly the Ravens creating pressure and chances with another great ball from James B this time onto Jack Reynolds but the goalkeeper managed to block the shot. Ben O was strong at the back and Haydon was being busy but the Ravens struggled to get the ball out to the left. Dan played some good balls through the middle
2-1 up at the break and five changes were made to give everyone a run.
Almost from the kick off Jamie burst forward and his cross goal shot was just put wide by Will sliding in at the far post. Claydon created their own chance from a free kick but Luke caught well.
Ben Turner then opened his account for the season with a great solo effort. Winning the ball in the middle he burst forward to finish expertly for a 3-1 lead.
The Ravens were trying to play their football and as the game wore on the rustiness slowly disappeared for the team to start passing the ball around and putting some good moves together.
An example was the good passing move after a goal kick when the back four passed it around, the move ending with an interchange through the middle for Jack Reynolds to score at the second attempt for 4-1.
Will was causing havoc down the right with aggressive tackling and bursting forward. He put a great ball across the box for Jack to steam in and complete his hat trick. James Heath was also making good little runs up the wing supporting Will.
At times it appeared easy for Horwood and then they would be rudely awoken by a loose ball or pressure from Claydon forcing a chance. One such instance saw a loss of concentration at the back when the defence left the ball thinking it was going out. The attacker picked up the ball and ran along the goal line to cross and let Claydon score for 5-2.
To their credit the Ravens kept their football going and eventually played the game out with David Powley scoring his second after a run from Jamie for a pleasing 6-2 result.
Bearing in mind the lads have played a lot better in recent games, this result is a definite sign of a good team. The back four combinations of Ben Y, David R, Keenan, James H and Ben O all played some excellent stuff and took on board instruction to play the ball around the attackers, sometimes causing the spectators palpitations but their confidence is growing and is key to the recent success of the team.
Next week we will try to get a friendly arranged to keep the momentum going as we have just three games left.
Downs Barn B 1 Great Horwood Ravens 4
League
Scorers:- Jack R (3), Jamie
(9 March 2008)
A superb first half hat trick was enough to see the Ravens record their second successive win.
It could have been a very different story if the home side had been able to shoot on target in the first half as they rampaged forward on more than one occasion only to shoot wide.
Against the run of play Jack R opened the scoring when he finally broke the offside trap after being caught offside several times. He ran through with strength, went round the keeper and finished well for 1-0. Their number 10 then went on a long run past several of our players only to hit the side netting before Jack scored again to double the lead.
Downs Barn league position is deceptive, they haven't played many games but one of their victories came against high flying Deanshanger (our opponents next week). Three particularly strong players (10, 6 and 7) caused problems all game. Good tackles at the back from David R, Keenan, Ben O and James H were required to keep the attackers out. In the middle James B and Ben T were playing well with Haydon showing his usual high work rate to close players down and get the ball forward. Jamie and Sean were keeping the width although most of the play tended to come down our right.
Jack R completed his hat trick with a spectacular strike from distance, knocking the ball up and hitting a volley from just inside the opponents half to lob the keeper.
At 3-0 we looked to be well on top until Downs Barn broke down their left to cut in and score just before half time to go into the break at 3-1.
The second half was a more even affair with end-to-end football being played. Good shots on goal from both sides included a great run and shot from Jack G just hitting the post, whilst at the other end Luke had to pull off a string of finger tip saves.
Andrew was put through and run on towards goal. A late challenge nearly brought him down but he got a shot away before the referee blew up for a penalty having at first allowed the game to continue.
Jamie stepped up to take the penalty and tapped it in after an initial great save from the keeper for a 4-1 lead. More attacks followed from both teams with a good move between Jack R, Andrew and Jack G almost ending in a goal with what was probably the best passage of play in the game.
The game ended with one last save from Luke for an enjoyable result and the teams first ever 'double' over an opponent.
Leighton Corinthian Eagles 1 Great Horwood Ravens 2
League
Scorers:- Jamie, Jack
(2 March 2008)
Finally....... a performance AND a result!!!
The score line did not reflect the quality of football, particularly in the first half, from the Ravens as they played some of their best football so far to repeatedly rip through the home team. If they had been 'wearing their shooting boots' the Ravens would have been out of sight at half time but as it was we all had to suffer a fraught second half before collecting the points.
A slight change in formation and personnel had a very positive impact with little one-twos being played up the wings and the defence demonstrating composure. Jamie opened the scoring after a cross found its way to him to slot home. Jamie and Dan were linking well and Jack R had a few good shots at goal. James B was having a Man of the Match game in the middle 'nutmegging' the opposition and spreading the ball around. However, (as still happens occasionally with the Ravens) they allowed themselves to get caught with a ball over the top for Leighton to equalise with their first real attack.
Not to be downhearted, the Ravens plugged away and kept knocking the ball around. Jamie and Will combined well to knock a ball across the goal but the half finished one each. Some changes were made to keep the players fresh but the changes unsettled the pattern of play allowing the home team to come into the game more in the second half.
Luke, Ben Y David R and Ben O had their work cut out in defence until Keenan was pushed forward into the hole behind midfield. The Ravens then got back into the game and started again to dominate. John Goodger was providing valuable guidance to Keenan in this new role and as a result we looked like a more compact unit.
Chances were being made at both ends until Jack R was reintroduced to the team and duly scored seconds later with a great goal from distance lobbing the keeper. At 2-1 the Ravens then showed some maturity in their play and played the game out sensibly. One last chance directly from a Leighton corner could have increased the lead but it just whistled past the post.
A very pleasing result and promising display. The Ravens have now equalled last seasons points tally with five games to go. If we can maintain this level as a minimum and seek to push on again we should have a pleasant end to the season.
Great Horwood Ravens 2 Hanslope Hornets 2
League
Scorers:- Andrew, Will
(24 February 2008)
Another good performance from the Ravens summed up by Jamie's comments at the end "we dominated possession in the first half but made more chances in the second". On balance I believe the Ravens deserved a victory but lapses in concentration near the end were punished for the game to again end in a draw.
Particularly pleasing today was the performance of the first half with a strong bench watching on and the return to form of Haydon. James B continued his recovery from injury with his best display for many a game and Jack G had a Man of the Match performance at the back. Other major plusses were the confident passes made around the back four and Andy getting on the score sheet together with Will.
For the first half the Ravens had the elements with them and played some good football with little triangles of play moving the ball up the pitch. The Ravens opened the scoring when a good shot was parried only for Will to bomb in and slot the ball home. No more than the team deserved for a strong start. At the other end the visitors had a golden opportunity to equalise when a player burst through to then side step Dan who had rushed off his line, only to balloon the ball high and wide. A real escape for the Ravens and a wake up call to not repeat the mistakes.
James H and Andy were moving well down the right and Ben T was being really busy in the middle. Dan was having a relatively easy time in goal as the combination of Jack G and David were mopping up in front of him.
James B was spraying the ball around and could have slotted a goal when the ball bounced up in front of him only to be hit when he was off balance. Jack R was having some great touches and turns outside the box but couldn't find his shooting boots all game. Haydon was also enjoying himself in an ongoing tussle with the Hanslope defenders.
The hornets real threat came from their number 2 who had a strong kick on him and took a really good corner. We didn't concede from corners but is an area we will be working on in training to both attack and to defend.
1-0 at half time and four changes were made to allow the big squad a run out. No reflection on those players that were taken off as they really had played very well. The second half saw a loose clearance pumped back with interest for a soft equaliser. This gave heart to the visitors who were more threatening from then on. Greater concentration and tighter passing from the Ravens was required as too much space and loose passes invited pressure.
Andrew returned to the fray to mix up the attacking options and he soon got on the score sheet turning the ball in through a crowd of players for the Ravens to again take the lead. This was all close to the end and it looked like the Ravens would record their first win of the year. However, it was not to be as the team slowly started 'sitting off' of their players giving them too much space to play in and Hanslope duly scored an equaliser after a ball was played through to an onside player to slot home. The fact two other players were in an offside position but not active proving to be a lesson for the Ravens.
All in all a good enjoyable game with lots of positives, lots of good football and an awareness the strength of the squad is growing.
Great Horwood Ravens 0 Brookfield Rangers 3
League
(10 February 2008)
The pattern for this season is becoming a little too familiar with the Ravens playing good football but failing to convert the superiority into goals.
The first half started brightly with both full backs throw-ins causing havoc amongst their defence and the midfield playing some good short passes to try and break through. Will was being really strong and menacing their defenders and Jack was trying to get in behind them.
A small tussle on the edge of their box saw the ball break free and slotted home only for an infringement to be called and a free kick awarded to Brookfield. With five substitutes on the bench it was a struggle to get everyone a decent run out. One such change contributed to the first goal as the Ravens failed to pick up their players quickly enough from a throw in and Brookfield ran through to slot the first one home. All against the run of play, the Ravens just continued to play their game.
As the half continued the midfield of Jamie, James and David were linking well and getting the ball wide to Andy or Will. However, it was Brookfield who doubled their lead when they again broke away against the run of play to score and end the half 2-0.
Changes at half time were made and a change in formation led to a more equal second half and it would be true to say the visitors created more chances than us. However, we still had some goal line clearances and some really good chances not converted before the visitors knocked in their third. During the second half Luke pulled off some great saves particularly one at full stretch. Keenan (otherwise known as Og) had another good performance to win man of the match.
All players were disappointed at the end of the game and rightly so. In this division there is a thin line between winning and losing for all but one or two teams. We need to get a little more of an edge in concentration and strength in the tackle to start converting the excellent football into results.
A change to a more positive formation may also be needed but we will see how we go over the next few weeks.
Great Horwood Ravens 0 Bromham Youth Lions 4
League
(3 February 2008)
Another good display from the Ravens against table topping Bromham. Focus for today was always going to be on defence but the strong wind made a farce of any game plan. However, both teams still entertained the crowd, considering the conditions.
The Ravens conceded an early goal in the first half with the conditions in their favour. At the time it looked like it was going to be a long morning but to their credit they rallied well and apart from the occasional blip defended well for the rest of the half. Luke was having a Man of the Match performance in goal ably supported by his defence. Keenan had his best game for a long time, improving steadily throughout the game, and together with Will and Ben Y and David R all playing at their best the team looked solid.
Jack R was causing problems for them up front with some good efforts but we struggled to create any clear chances all game, partly because of the conditions and partly because of the strong oppositions defence.
1-0 down at half time and now it was our turn to face the elements.
Fears proved to be unfounded as the team defended very well keeping the score at 1-0 and occasionally breaking forward to try and get the equaliser.
The last few changes (to keep the five substitutes involved) back fired, when the previously solid defence suddenly looked fragile as they took time to settle. A run down their right broke clear to the edge of our box, to be crossed to a choice of attackers and increase the score to 2-0.
Will was introduced up front and really got stuck into the defence. A couple of breaks by Jamie and Will could have seen a consolation goal but it wasn't to be. As the game came to an end the Ravens unfortunately conceded another couple of goals to leave a score that didn't reflect the effort and concentration put into the game by all players.
Very pleasing to see progress with defending, still lots to work on, but we can look forward to next weeks game with confidence.
Woodside Wanderers 2 Great Horwood Ravens 2
League
Scorer:- Jack G, Jack R
(27 January 2008)
A very impressive and very enjoyable game to watch as the Ravens played some great football with the ball, but still need to work on playing with discipline when we haven't got the ball.
A Man of the Match performance was required from David R at the back to thwart some attacks but Haydon, Luke Jack G, Jack R and Andy all had great games. Captain Dan was very vocal in the middle as the Ravens started the game well and continued their form throughout. We just need to get the discipline right and then we can really kick on.
Woodside had some strong players who caused us problems throughout the game. Luke was called on early to stop the home side opening the scoring before the travelling supporters celebrations (Jackie) were cut short when we realised Jack R shot from an angle had hit the top of the net and was not a goal.
Woodside were knocking the ball long and they scored with a well taken goal.
The pattern of the game started to settle when the home side continued having three up front and the Ravens sorted themselves out with who should be marking and who should be dropping off.
It remained 1-0 up until half time when a brief chat requesting players concentrate on goal kicks and continue to drop off when required was all that was needed. A change to formation to give Jack more support up front was made and the Ravens continued to play the better football.
Pressure from the Ravens led to a corner after which Jack G scored a great goal for his second in two games.
Throughout the game the opposition looked at their most dangerous when we were attacking. This was proven again when they scored directly from our corner, breaking away and outnumbering our defenders.
Behind again for the second time the Ravens didn't panic and set about building opportunities. They eventually found some joy when knocking balls into the corners for Andy and then Will to run onto and the tactic could have seen at least three goals as great crosses were just inches away from incoming strikers.
When the equaliser came is was only right that it reflected the quality of play demonstrated by the Ravens. A defence cutting 25yd pass by James B found Will bombing down the right to cut the ball across the goal and Jack R slammed it home - a great goal and thoroughly deserved.
After the equaliser it was a little end-to-end as the Ravens again lost some discipline mainly through the centre midfield and defence as Woodside overloaded their attack and punted the ball forward.
At the other end the Ravens created some great chances for shots by Will and Haydon as the little triangles opened up the opposition. Good control followed by a short pass back to Dan from James B saw a lovely pass down the line to Will with a great cross just in front of the strikers. Jack R came over for a throw-in and hit a great cross field pass just behind the defender for Haydon to run onto. All high class football and a real joy to watch.
At the end the lads knew they had played well and probably deserved more out of the game. That said, we have to just continue with the quality of football and work very hard in training to improve defensive movement throughout the team. Roll on next week!!
Two Mile Ash 3 Great Horwood Ravens 3
League
Scorer:- Jack G, Dan, Jamie
(13 January 2008)
Another one of those games in which the Ravens should have had clear distance between themselves and the opposition but then struggled to defend collectively and landed up having to scrape a point. The attacking football was again good to watch, although there was little support for Jack up front. Shooting is the main thing to work on for next week and the rest is basically down to discipline. The team know what they are supposed to do, its just remembering they have to do it for 70 minutes. Next week will also see the manager resist the need to change central defence and instead look to settle on a group of defenders and work consistently with them.
The game was peppered with some excellent play form the Ravens with Jack Goodger's clever flick from a corner to open the score being a particular highlight. Several chances were missed at both ends but the Ravens had the more clear cut and well worked efforts. 1-0 at half time and the manager made some changes at the back which had an impact on the second half. 
We still tend to suffer at the hands of teams who play with seven up front. A little more discipline and ball play from the back would find the gaps behind these attackers but somehow we fail to find those spaces. Three goals from the home side went unanswered before the Ravens clicked back into to gear to create chances and peg one back with a great shot from the edge of the box by Dan. At last someone had had a shot from distance and it paid dividends. As the game came to a close it was all Ravens attack with occasional hoofs up the pitch to the waiting home attackers.
A break down the right saw Jack Reynolds (having another strong game) close down the keeper who just failed to handle the pressure of the bouncing ball 
and his own defender. The ball broke loose to Jamie who slotted it home for a well deserved equaliser.
A relief at the end not to have lost the game but in all honesty we should be winning games like this with ease if we are to realise the potential within the squad.
Wootton Blue Cross 5 Great Horwood Ravens 1
League
Scorer:- Jack R
(6 January 2008)
Looking at the final score you would think this had been a one sided affair with the Ravens just managing to squeeze a goal in. The reality was far different.
For the second game in succession the Ravens created multiple chances and played some excellent football only to fall to some cheap goals and bad luck.
The home side scored after only a minute when an early corner was sent low across the goal for several Ravens to watch it be pushed home by an incoming striker. The ball must have passed through at least three sets of legs before ending in the net.....
The Ravens responded almost immediately with Jamie sending a very good chance just past the post to set the trend for the rest of the game. Andrew had some great runs down the right throughout the match, the first of which ended with a shot into the side netting quickly followed by another good shot from Will.
Jack R had some very good runs requiring the home defence to be at their best and concede a corner. James H had a 'man of the match' game playing at right back but marauding forward to cause havoc with some great crosses and throw ins.
Another corner from the Ravens went back out to James H to cross in and cause panic in the 6yd box. Twice the ball was cleared off of the line to deny the dominant Ravens before Jack G just hit the ball too high and over the bar. Another good shot from Jack R was saved before Wootton had an attack to win a controversial corner. The ball was knocked in with power and the luck went with Wootton as Lukes punched clearance landed nicely for the attacker to slot home. 2-0 and completely against the run of play.
The Ravens were occasionally getting caught out by the strong goal kicks and one such ball just bounced straight through the middle allowing the attacker to run on and slot home for 3-0. The home side were also having some joy overloading their right wing but to their credit the Ravens sorted themselves out and again had most of the game in the second half although not quite as many clear chances.
3-0 at half time we still had everything to play for and felt as though we could still win the game.
The second half pattern was much the same as the first with some excellent football from the Ravens. Lovely passing moves between James H, Jamie and Andrew led to Andrew again running in on goal only for the ball to go just wide. A mistake at the back with a clearance going straight to the opposition was another soft goal as the Ravens gave another late Christmas present to the home team for a 4-0 lead.
Much shaking of the heads on the side lines as the score line was not a fair reflection on the quality of football displayed by the Ravens.
Jack R had a strong run forward with a good shot going just over and then repeated the effort minutes later but this time ended with a classy finish, chipping the keeper from 20yds.
The rest of the game revolved around corners and good throw ins from James H mounting pressure on the home side. Try as they might the ball would not go over the line again as goal line clearances kept the score at 4-1. A defender was sacrificed for an attacker and Wootton made the most of the extra space at the back by having a couple of good attacks, one of which ended in Haydon heading the ball off the goal line.
The game became stretched in the last few minutes as Wootton hoofed the ball forward, needing Luke to be at his best in goal, and Jamie, Jack R, Haydon, Will and Andrew pressing forward to gain another goal. A big boot up the pitch from Wootton found the space and the home team completed the scoring to end the game 5-1.
Another game of 'if only' but the last two matches in particular are showing good progress. Defence was better today (the whole team not just the defensive unit) and we are moving towards the desired position of playing 3-5-2.
Next week we have a few areas to work on - two goals conceded from corners is not good, but the passing and movement all bodes well for the rest of the season.
Bromham 6 Great Horwood Ravens 1
League
(16 December 2007)
Another good performance from the Ravens which could have seen a different result if early chances had been taken and slack defending hadn't gifted chances to the opposition.
A very bright start from Horwood could have seen them 2-0 up after a couple of minutes. It took a little while for the home team to recover their composure but a disputed offside goal settled their nerves quickly followed by some woeful defending which gave them a 2-0 cushion. Slightly knocked back, the Ravens still played some good stuff going forward but without any clear incisive moves. The pattern of the game was set when one of the Ravens dived into the tackle to allow the Bromham player a break away towards goal and score a third.
As the half drew to a close the Ravens were still in the game with thoughts on the sidelines thinking that keeping it to three would give us a good chance to have a go at them in the second half.
Unfortunately two very late poor goals were conceded to change the half time team talk. 5-0 at the break but if you disregard the goals the rest of the play had been even. A few good players on Bromhams team had punished loose tackling to distort the effort and quality of football played by Horwood.
The second half was much better from the Ravens a little more aggressive and more in keeping with the approach adopted by the home side. Apart from a couple of comedy moments in defence when clearances were knocked across our own goal the Ravens didn't appear to be tested.
A goal 20 minutes from time by Bromham was a little against the run of play but the Ravens dusted themselves down and bossed the game in the last fifteen minutes. Finally getting a reward for their efforts when Jack lobbed the keeper after he had dashed out to the edge of the box. 1-1 for the second half it was a real shame those early chances hadn't gone in as it could have made it a very interesting game.
Hanslope Hornets 3 Great Horwood Ravens 5
League
(9 December 2007)
A great performance from the Ravens who continued their recent improvement. Some of the best football so far this season saw some lovely interchanges between a range of different players as the Ravens sought to pass the ball around and open up the home team defence.
Well done to Hanslope for getting the game played and a big thank you to Jeff for running the line while all the other spectators stayed in the dry (waiting for Jeff to slip over in the mud!).
In some pretty wet, cold and sticky conditions the Ravens display was even more impressive. Right from the start they nailed their colours to the wall by insisting on playing good football particularly between Jamie, Haydon and Jack R.
The Ravens were unlucky to not take an early lead after the home team had been exposed at the back a couple of times. As it was, Jack R got the first of his hat trick when a shot from the edge of the box was tucked expertly just inside the near post. Jamie doubled the score with a well taken goal from the edge of the box and it looked like there was only one team going to win. Hanslope had some good moves going forward but they were dealt with strongly either by the defence or Luke in goal. A little more communication was all that was needed at the back otherwise we were pretty well untroubled.
Jack G then had a lovely strike at goal from at least 20 yds out which sailed into the net to make it 3-0. This seemed to spur the home side on and they attacked in numbers. A good run down their right attracted too many Ravens, leaving a free player in the middle, who slotted it past Luke to get them back into the game.
The Ravens were still playing some good football and it wasn't long before Jack R scored his second with another great shot this time from the other side of the box, tucking it inside the far post.
4-1 at half time and there was no need to make any changes. However, Luke was replaced after feeling unwell and Dan stepped into goal.
The team are learning to play football themselves and little instruction was needed for them to keep it tight in the first ten minutes of the second half. They still created chances of their own but failed to increase their lead.
Then, with only 15 minutes left on the clock, the home team seemed to have luck on their side when a big hoof up the pitch from Dan in goal was volleyed straight back into the net from the half way line. The sort of goal you see on 'What happened next' and rarely ever see in a local game.
Buoyed by their good fortune Hanslope pushed forward and shortly afterwards the Ravens had a nightmare in their own box, failing to clear a corner and allowed a striker to poke it home for 4-3 and game on!!
To their credit the Ravens didn't panic and calmly set about restoring their dominance. Jack R had a great chance after the ball broke through the gap, hitting the angle of bar and post. Spectators on the side were starting to get the feeling it was going to be "another one of those days". However, they should have more faith in the growing confidence of the side as a couple more shots from the Ravens went close before Jack R scored the goal of the game to complete his hat trick.
A break on the right saw Jack powering forward before a wonderful chipped shot from 20yds flew over the keeper and into the net.
5-3 at the whistle and it could have been more. The Ravens deserve high praise for this performance and should take confidence into the next game. Man of the match Ben Oxley is proving good discipline in the centre of midfield makes all the difference, allowing others more freedom to play. Roll on next week!!!
Great Horwood Ravens 0 Wing Raiders 2
League
(2 December 2007)
An unlucky game for the Ravens in a match that probably should have seen a draw as a fair result.
The Ravens started very positively with Jack R bursting through twice before Will exercised the keeper requiring him to pull off a double save. At the other end the visitors attacked straight from our corner which ended with a shot just missing the post.
Andy and Will both had great runs but the impressive Wing keeper was also acting as a good sweeper, able to thwart the Ravens ambitions. The half progressed with the strong wind behind us giving the Ravens the upper hand and able to apply a lot of pressure with many corners all delivered very well by Man of the Match Jamie.
Keenan nearly opened the scoring with a shot from a corner but again the luck just wasn't going our way.
The revised formation seemed to be working for the Ravens and is probably something we can again improve on over the coming weeks. Ben Oxley had a storming game as the holding midfielder with his good discipline allowing the other midfielders a bit more license to attack and move the ball.
0-0 at half time and all to play for. Some changes were made to give the subs a reasonable run out in the atrocious weather. Haydon came on for Will and immediately set about making an impression down the left.
Throughout the second half Wing had the weather in their favour and looked to put the Ravens under pressure but the Ravens played well throughout, creating several of their own chances. However, they were undone by a couple of loose passages of play which led to the ball being bundled over the line twice for the visitors to go away with a 2-0 win.
Just when the Ravens looked to push everything forward, for one last gasp effort, the weather finally defeated us when a very heavy downfall cutting short the last few minutes play.
Overall a very encouraging display. The tinkering with formation is having a good effect, we now need to settle and get on with winning a few games that this form deserves. Roll on next week for a rare away game.
Starting line up:-
Luke, Ben Y, Ben T, David, Keenan, Will, Ben O, Jamie, James H, Andrew, Jack R.
Great Horwood Ravens 2 Wootton Blue Cross 6
League
Scorers:- Jack R, Andrew
(25 November 2007)
Another good performance from the Ravens in an entertaining game, end-to-end encounter with good football on display from both sides. Unfortunately for the Ravens they again went down to a poor 10 minute period at the start of the second half when they conceded three quick goals. Without this period they could have got something out of the game as quite a few chances went begging. We will persevere with the new formation albeit with some fine tuning as the squad have played much better football since its introduction but still leak too many goals.
The game started with an even period of play, both teams looking to move the ball. A bright bit of skill from the opposition opened the scoring when a deft overhead kick led to a player running on to knock the ball home. This was matched shortly afterwards with an impressive move down our right leading to Jack Reynolds hitting a sweet shot into the top left of the goal to even the scores.
A soft goal was then conceded as a simple throw-in over our defence led to another run on goal for the visitors to retake the lead. The half was progressing quickly as the crowd enjoyed the football on display.
Another good move down the right ended with a strong run from Andrew into the box. His shot was deflected into the net for a well deserved equaliser.
2-2 at the break.
Half time team talk concentrated on the need to communicate and think about the game. Sean had been playing very well just dropping back in the middle to mop up some attacks and overall they had all played very well and looked good for at least a draw.
The second half started with a very strange goal. Out of nowhere the ball found its way into the net. Nobody seemed to know what had happened. Behind again, the Ravens ploughed forward and a couple of good shots across the goal could both have gone in.
The football was still good and Wootton played some good stuff to increase their lead with two well taken goals. Three goals in this ten minute period reflected badly on the score and it deflated the Ravens for a little while. However, they bounced back to create some more chances before another soft goal straight down the middle was conceded to make it 6-2.
As the game petered out we still could have had a couple of goals as the Wootton keeper was called on to make a great save after a good cross from Andy. More good runs were made towards the end but without converting the end product.
The lads were disappointed at the end and rightly so. Their football didn't deserve the score line. One or two of the goals may be due to learning the new formation but the others were just mistakes we can work on and get rid of.
Some time very soon I have a feeling its all going to click, but in the meantime we can take encouragement from the good moves shown and the number of chances created.
Great Horwood Ravens 2 Brookfield Rangers 4
Citizen Cup round 2
Scorers:- Jamie, Jack R
(11 November 2007)
A much improved performance from the Ravens with lots of positives to take from the game. Playing a new system the lads played very well throughout and could have got more from the game.
From the start the visitors broke through needing Dan in goal to be at his best. As the team looked to settle Brookfield took advantage of a mistake in the middle to run on and open the scoring. We still struggled to get hold of the ball from their goal kicks but made the most of a good throw from James H to Sean who passed it on to Jack R to slot home the equaliser.
A poorly defended free kick allowed Brookfield to restore their lead. The team stepped back into Dan's 6 yard box. This just opened the door for the attackers to pile in on Dan and score (something to work on in training!).
2-1 at half time. The team talk requested Keenan stay more in the middle. He had been dragged out to the wings to defend because the midfield had not been dropping in to pick up the attackers. All understandable mistakes with a new system. They listened and worked it a bit better in the second half - good stuff!!.
A positive start to the second half could have seen the Ravens equalise as Jamie and Sean both had shots cleared with Sean's shot requiring a finger tip save. At the other end we were living a little dangerously needing Dan to pull off some good saves until a good move down their right caught us out and gave them an easy tap into the goal.
Jack R was being busy but their offside trap was effective. He had a good run towards goal but unfortunately the shot was straight at the keeper.
Just when it looked like we were getting on top with chances to close the score line we conceded a really poor goal. Brookfield were allowed to play the ball out from their right back position whilst successive Ravens stood and watched without closing down or getting a tackle in. The easy passage of play eventually leading to an unchallenged shot going just inside the post. Just a drop in concentration and we had paid a high price....
Undaunted, the Ravens still pushed forward and deservedly scored when Jamie ran on to a ball through the middle. A free kick on the edge of the box was wasted but if we had just scored a little earlier it may have been a different story. As it was the game ended at 4-2 but a really good display by the lads.
Great Horwood Ravens 1 Deanshanger 7
Scorers:- Jack R
(4 November 2007)
The Ravens paid the price for a very slow start conceding three goals in the first five minutes. The team struggled to cope with early pressure, the visitors opening the scoring with almost the first attack. Some good football followed before Deanshanger scored again, this time with a lucky looping shot going just under the bar.
Midfield and defence were not getting close enough to their opposition allowing them to constantly break through the middle. A 'l ast gasp' tackle from Ben Y stopped another attack before a mix up at the back gifted another goal, quickly followed by another to go in at the break 5-0 down.
Half time team talk just asked the players to get closer, and to think about their positions from our goal kicks. The second half was a much better performance overall but we still allowed the opposition to get a ball through the middle to score their 6th. Ben O made some strong tackles at the back and Ben Y was doing the same on the left. Jamie was starting to thread a few balls through and Dan had a good chance to attack but gave away a harsh foul just inside their box.
The Ravens finally received the reward their second half performance deserved with Jack running on to score a great goal, lobbing the keeper, to make it 6-1. Final changes to the formation were to blame for the last goal as a reshuffled pack in the midfield took time to settle again allowing Deanshanger to break through and finish the scoring.
Lots of things to work on - we need to 'join up' the units ensuring defence break out to support the midfield, keeping their line. We need to think about how we play without the ball - communicating, to ensure the opposition are being marked.... and compete for everything.
Thursdays training will work on certain aspects with a possible change in formation also being considered.
Starting line up:-
Luke, Ben Y, Ben T, David, Keenan, Haydon, James B, Jamie, Andrew, Jack G, Will.
Great Horwood Ravens 2 Woodside Wanderers 2
Scorers:- Andrew, Jack G
(14 October 2007)
More improvement again over last week, particularly in the second half but still short of the form we are capable of.
End-to-end stuff at the start of the game saw early chances at both ends. However, it was the visitors who opened the scoring with a goal after the defence had headed it out to the waiting attackers.
The Ravens fought back quickly with Andrew having another good game breaking down the right to cross and find Jack G sliding in to level the score, a move straight from training!! The Ravens were guilty of hurrying the game which coupled with the visitors style of play led to a ping-pong period with neither side getting the ball under control.
A good passing move between James B and Jack G led to a shot from Will requiring a good save from the keeper. At the other end the visitors were having some success breaking through and using their big lad up front. One such break calling on the Man of the Match Luke in goal to save from a one-on-one.
Woodside then scored a great goal with a strong run ending with side-step of the keeper to go 2-1 ahead at half time.
Half time team talk concentrated on keeping the back line straight and to try and put into practice the moves we have been concentrating on in training such as trying to keep possession without the need to try and score a goal within ten seconds of winning the ball.
The second half was much better with the team playing better football. Will shot across the goal but just wide. A corner from the Ravens hit the inside of the post and back across the goal without a Raven managing to get to it. We still played a little 'welly and chase it' football until Andrew saw his opportunity and knocked a ball past the defender and run onto it. He made up at least five yards with his superior speed before cutting in and slotting the ball home for a great goal to make it 2-2.
The rest of the game saw several chances for the visitors being thwarted by Luke making finger tip or last gasp saves or Jamie breaking through onto goal at the other end.
2-2 at the final whistle was probably about right although the visitors may have gone away disappointed.
A little quite in the dressing room at the end, we have only lost twice this season but the lads know more is to come and felt a little disappointed not to have gained a win. Tougher games will come with the next opposition being a cup game against Brookfield.
Starting line up:-
Luke, Ben O, Ben T, David, Keenan, Jack P, Will, James B, Andrew, Jamie, James H.
Great Horwood Ravens 3 Downs Barn 2
Scorers:- Andrew, Jamie (2)
(7 October 2007)
A massive improvement in performance from last weeks game saw the Ravens still not quite at their best but able to run out as comfortable winners. 'Comfortable' is always relative and the Ravens can always be relied on to give the watching spectators palpitations as their cavalier attacking continues when it is no longer required. All exciting stuff, but we need to be a little more conservative when leading by more than one goal as we consistently leave ourselves open to concede.
Training and warm-ups had concentrated on getting the ball wide and the ploy seemed to work as the team did play better football using the width of the pitch. We will continue with these drills until it becomes instinctive but today was certainly a very good start.
From the kick off Downs Barn looked to be a good side and they put us under pressure with the first ten minutes being played exclusively in our half. As the Ravens settled into their positions they started to break through the opposition and make some good chances.
Ben Oxley at left back had a storming game and could have been man of the match if it wasn't for Andrew also playing some great football and scoring his first goal. Ben started the game as he meant to go on with a crunching tackle followed by a good clearance.
Haydon had a great run and passed through to Jamie to score against the run of play to go 1-0 up. This set the pattern for much of the first half with the defence of Ben O, Ben T, David and Keenan holding firm backed up by Luke in goal and the midfield of Will and Haydon being very busy to break up attacks. Although Downs Barn enjoyed a lot of possession it was the Ravens at the other end who created chance after chance. Dan's curled left foot shot just missing the post and Andrew having a good chance just go wide after another good run and pass from Jamie. Will had a strong run through the middle which needed some good defending to stop him whilst at the other end a bad bounce caught the defence out and Downs Barn poked it in for the equaliser.
The Ravens were tending to bunch, probably due to the manager moving some players positions around but they were looking good going forward and had a strong defence. Gluing the two units together has been the story of the season so far but this game looked the most promising to date.
Andrew made a great pass to Dan who was unfortunatley caught offside but Andrew followed this up by geting on the end of a lovely through ball from Ben T to score a good goal and put the Ravens 2-1 up. Keenan had a good run and shot before Downs Barn number 7 had a positive run requiring David to tackle brilliantly. 2-1 at the break and the team just needed to do more of the same in the second half.
The second half was more even in possesion and territory with the Ravens probably just having the upper hand. Positive play included Andrew heading out a Downs Barn free kick and Jack G putting the ball over the bar from about 6yds out. Some good football from Will and Haydon ended with a great shot from Haydon hitting the post. Pressure was mounting on the visitors with Jamie having another shot and corners flying in caused panic in the Downs Barn six yard box.
Good interchange play between Jack G and Jack R ended with Will getting a shot away. More good play between Jack R and Jamie ended with another shot from Haydon going just wide. The Ravens were then awarded a free kick about 25 yds out which David hit but was then retaken after a defender encroached within 10yds before the ball had been kicked. The retake saw Jamie step up and score a spectacular goal in the top right hand of the net for a 3-1 lead and it looked like it was all over.....
Downs Barn still had chances with a shot going just wide but the defence were holding strong with Ben O getting in some meaty challenges. At the other end Jack R was constantly putting the keeper under pressure as succesive through balls just ran on a little too far for Jack to get there. Just when we thought we could relax, a wicked swerve and bad bounce caught out the defence for the game to go 3-2.
We still had chances but the game petered out with Luke making some good solid saves before the final whistle.
A very enjoyable game against a well organised and friendly side. The game was competitive throughout but we need to work on closing out a game when we have a good lead. Over the last couple of seasons we have consistently suffered come-back goals in games we should easily win so its obviously an area we can improve. Overall, the substitutions had been very hard as everyone had played so well.... difficult for the manager but a nice problem to have.......
Starting line up:-
Luke, Ben O, Ben T, David, Keenan, Jack P, Will, Haydon, Andrew, Jamie, Dan.
Great Horwood Ravens 2 Two Mile Ash 2
Scorers:- Will, Haydon
(30 September 2007)
A poor quality game saw the Ravens throw away yet another lead for a game to end in a draw.
With no training in midweek this was the squad’s first outing since last weekend. They seemed to suffer a hangover from the County Cup and never really played any of the football they are capable of. Centre midfield still seems to be the problem area and changes will be made over the coming weeks to try and settle the team.
A frenetic start to the game saw the visitors almost score at our end only for Will to burst through at theirs and open the score with an early well taken goal. Any thoughts this would settle the Ravens soon vanished as Two Mile Ash attacked down our right requiring a good cover tackle to force the ball out for a corner and the pattern was set... Andrew was getting stuck in and playing well and soon forced a corner. However, the Ravens managed to present the opposition with a golden opportunity to score direct from our corner when the ball was misplaced and they thundered out on the break, this time needing Ben Y to get in a great tackle.
An end-to-end period of play followed before Haydon pulled off a great dummy in the middle of the pitch to open up their defence. James then passed it through for Will whose shot went narrowly wide. The Ravens had a bit of pressure and Haydon hit the side netting after intercepting a goal kick. He made amends shortly afterwards with a powerful run in from the sidelines and shot at goal which was too hot for the keeper to handle.
2-0 and panic over??? not likely.... this is the Ravens we are talking about!!
Another massed attack from the visitors saw Ben T getting in the last gasp tackle. At the other end a short corner from Haydon and Jamie ended with a shot over the bar. Although not pretty to watch the game was well within the Ravens reach when the old faithful happened and nobody attacked the ball in the box after a corner. The attacker was allowed to turn and score from inside the 6yd box for a 2-1 score line and a real boost to the opposition. It was still cavalier stuff by both teams with Andrew latching onto another ball from James and Will getting good corners over but the half ended 2-1 to Horwood.
A change to the formation at half time attempted to improve the football on offer as most of the midfield had been rushing forward to help the lone striker. Reverting to 4-4-2 helped a little but we couldn’t legislate for a series of mistakes costing us the equaliser. An attacking throw-in in their half was lost and the ball found its way out wide, a hopeful cross was completely sliced by our player over the defence and into the path of their attacker to slot away for 2-2.
More end-to-end poor quality football followed, punctuated by the odd moment of quality, with Chris making a good run forward for Andrews shot to go wide. More deflections needed more last gasp tackles this time by Keenan before we lost the ball again from our throw in which led to a four-on-one but luckily an offside was given. Jamie returned to the fray to thread a couple of through balls and the Ravens still had shots whistle past the post.
Towards the end a little controversy ensued when Dan did a 'David James' and came sprinting out to the touchline to intercept a ball but just caught the player. Covering defenders may have got back in time but strong calls for a dismissal were very well handled by the ref (John) who had only just dealt with a sending off offence by requesting the visiting manager deal with it. A similar approach was taken for this incident and play progressed with a free kick which was well cleared. The pattern continued until the final whistle with last gasp tackles from both sides after some kick and rush football.
The game ended with a draw which was probably about right but the Ravens need to move on and get their game back.
Without the strong pivot in the middle the team struggled to join up any passes with only small periods of play opening up the opposition but no real conviction to force opportunities. At the other end the cavalier attacking of the visitors paid off time and time and again as the long boot up the pitch saw the four waiting attackers ready to pounce on any missed ball or bad bounce. The huge gap between their attack and midfield was never filled with a Horwood player as both teams degenerated to a poor standard of football.
The lads knew at the end they hadn’t played well but can take comfort in the fact we didn’t lose. It would have been nice to sneak a win even on this performance but optimism is still high as we look forward to yet another home game next week.
Starting line up:-
Dan, Ben Y, Ben T, Keenan, Jack G, Andrew, Haydon, Jack R, James, Will, Jamie
Great Horwood Ravens 0 West Bletchley 18
Scorers:-
(23 September 2007)
The annual training exercise labelled as the County Cup was a tough lesson this year with a depleted Ravens squad taking time to settle with players playing in unusual positions.
Overall the first half was one of missed tackles or allowing the Divison 1 opposition far too much space and paying them too much respect. A tough half time team talk asked the players to question their own approach. We can play attractive football but the other half of the equation is the need to be aggressive and get tight to the opposition.
A very weak performance from several players needed changing. To their credit they took the comments on board and looked to play a tighter game in the second half.
The first half had seen the team almost apologising for getting a tackle in, in comparison the second half saw an early penalty given away and several strong challenges some of which resulted in free kicks but all were an indication of more grit and determination.
We need to play games like this to improve and get used to how higher opposition play. Its not always easy especially when the poor first half performance (admittedly playing against the strong wind) had such a positive effect on the opposition and a corresponding negative effect on the Ravens. Learning from the experience we played much better in the second half but not well enough to implement any kind of tactics.
Next week sees us back with a league game, if the second half effort can be continued we should be able to get back to winning ways quickly....
Man of the Match went to Luke in goal for keeping the score respectable....
Starting line up:-
Luke, Ben Y, Chris B, Keenan, Haydon, Andrew, Jamie, Dan, Jack R, Jack P, James H.
Great Horwood Ravens 3 Steeple Claydon 2
Scorers:- Dan, Jamie(2)
(16 September 2007)
A well deserved first win of the season always looked on the cards after the Ravens started brightly and took an early lead. However, as usual the squad made things difficult for themselves conceding goals before sneaking a late winner.
Right from the start the standard of play looked good with Ben Yasue getting some great tackles in on the Claydon winger and the rest of the team looking to break forward. Claydon did their best to catch someone offside on every attack but a good move broke through and Dan had a great shot hit the back of the net for 1-0. Claydon were quick to respond and a good free kick needed Luke to pull off a great save. They then had a long shot just whistle past the post before the Ravens pushed forward again with a good through ball from James.
Several attacks broke down due to a range of players being offside. We need to get a lot better at reading these offsides, Steeple Claydon employ the tactic more than most and they were pretty good at it, but we shouldn't have fallen into it so many times. Horwood pressure in the middle of the pitch led to a rushed pass-back to the keeper, which he picked up. The resultant free kick created a good chance for Horwood with Dan having a good shot saved. From the following corner another shot was well saved by the Claydon keeper.
The game was quite physical in parts and a big shove on Haydon was disputed by the visitors. They needn't have worried too much... the disagreement being short-lived as the resulting free kick saw Horwood players again caught offside. Dan had another good effort just go wide whilst at the other end Claydon had a good run on goal needing Luke to again pull off a great save. The corner saw a shot blasted over the bar as the Ravens started to live a little dangerously. Trying to relieve some pressure a good ball through saw another Raven caught offside but Horwood soon put some neat passing together for Dan to go close and then for Jamie to run on and tuck the ball away nicely for 2-0.
As the half came to an end Claydon had a free kick which was well defended and at the other end Haydon managed to put the ball over from short range. 2-0 at the break and a very pleasing performance. Some good attacking runs from the back with Keenan and Ben T both foraging forward and good wing play from Jamie and Haydon. James and Jack R had done enough in the middle with Will looking to break and support Dan up front.
With the wind getting stronger there was some doubt whether two would be enough but the basic instruction was to just keep doing the same things. A bright start again from the Ravens saw a good ball from Jamie go to Will whose shot just trickled agonisingly wide. More good football from Will and Jamie lead to two more good shots at goal and the Ravens could have been clear ahead after just five minutes. Against the run of play Steeple attacked and a strong shot just squeezed over Luke to bring the score back to 2-1. Chances at both ends then peppered the rest of the game as the Ravens sought to score on the break and Claydon looked to pile on the pressure. Chris had a good second half as he learns his craft in the middle of midfield and Andrew again impressed on the Wing.
The Ravens had more chances to score but started to lose shape after two of the back four limped off within minutes of each other. First off was Ben Y who had kept the big Claydon winger quite all game, then David R suffered an Achilles injury after an accidental stomp. A quick reshuffle never really settled but the lads fought hard to keep the visitors out. Claydon took advantage of the changes and had a succession of corners all needing some desperate defending as Horwood clung onto their lead. Jack P did his best at the back and looks to improve with each game.
A quick break from Will could have settled it but the Claydon keeper saved well. As tiredness took hold, a lack of concentration allowed the visitors to break through and slide home an equaliser. With just a couple of minutes left that looked to be it... but the Ravens rolled up their sleeves and charged forward to restore their lead. A little cavalier attacking left some weak spots at the back which fortunately Claydon failed to exploit. As the clock ticked down Jamie burst through and his shot found its way into the net. Much rejoicing on the sidelines followed as the support saw the team in sight of their just rewards. The final couple of minutes were spent in midfield before the final whistle saw big beaming smiles all round.
Still lots to work on but last weeks performance is already a distant memory. We now need to work on a few specific areas as we look forward to a county Cup game next week.
Come on the Ravens......!!!
Starting line up:-
Luke, Ben Y, Ben T, Keenan, David R, Haydon, Jack R, James, Will, Jamie, Dan.
Brookfield Rangers 5 Great Horwood Ravens 2
Scorers :- Jamie(2)
League (8 September 2007)
A slightly under strength side for the Ravens played good football but only for small periods of the game. There could be no faulting the effort the squad put in and fitness has obviously improved as nearly all players were still running well at the end of the game, but not enough football was played to affect the score line. At the end, the spectators and players felt very disappointed, and rightly so, as expectations were high after last weeks superb display.
The game had started late due to administrative problems with the home team (they hadn't got a whistle!!) and it seemed to have a bit of an effect on the Ravens as they started slowly. Right from the kick off Brookfield attacked and set the pattern for attacking down their left side. We never really got to grips with some of the good play from Brookfield but should have been able to impose our game. Just when our supporters were starting to feel uneasy the Ravens had a throw-in from which Jack R made a great pass out to James H for him to cross and Jamie expertly steer his half volley (whilst in mid flight) into the goal. A high class
effort, worthy of a 'goal of the season'.
With the 1-0 lead the Ravens settled back to enjoy a similar performance to the Fun Day. Sadly their over confidence was short-lived with a mistake costing an equaliser from the kick off. Heads bowed for a short while which gave the momentum to Brookfield and allowed them to play their game.
There followed an even period of play until Brookfield attacked with a cross which Luke did well to save. However, nobody was able to command the box and the home side poked home a goal from inside our box. Disappointing, but not a calamity, the Ravens still showed all the potential to walk away with the game.
However, as the half progressed it became obvious the Ravens were not playing their best and they continued to flap at the ball. Passes were made into space with no Ravens player near. Consistently, balls in the air were never really dealt with. The Ravens either allowing the ball to bounce or tried unsuccessfully to control it. It became like a throw-back in time as elementary mistakes kept costing us dearly. One such missed tackle in the middle of the pitch led to a straight run through on goal for Brookfield to increase their lead to 3-1.
The Ravens then burst into life as a terrific through ball to Jamie lead to his shot being saved by the keeper only for him to react quickly and knock it in for 3-2 at half time. The half time team talk emphasised the need to just play more football. Every time we passed the ball around we cut them apart but instead we were just flicking the ball around or passing the ball to nobody.
We lacked any desire to head the ball throughout the team and paid the price when another ball went through straight over the defence for Brookfield to run and score to make it 4-2. Shortly afterwards the Ravens again fell to a sucker punch as they failed to clear their area and again Brookfield took advantage.
Very, very, frustrating football as the Ravens are far better than this display showed. Late chances for the Ravens were not converted but at the end a 5-2 score line should act as a wake up call to the Ravens. Lots to work on in training, We are much better than this, but are maybe suffering from a change in formation and personnel which is taking time to settle. We need our players to be at their best for the whole game and think about what they are doing. With the team spirit and effort being so dominant we need to ensure concentration and the desire to play good football is encouraged so we at least match and even exceed our potential.
Starting line up:-
Luke, Ben Y, Keenan, David R, Ben O, Haydon, Jack R, James, Andrew, James H, Jamie.
Report by Steve B.
Great Horwood Ravens 6 Hanslope Hornets 0
Scorers :- Jamie 3, Will 2, Dan
Fun Day (1 September 2007)
A fine day for football saw the Ravens put on an impressive display of passing and movement which deservedly earned them a big win. Hanslope were a little under strength due to the end of the school holidays but we still were able to play our football and never really look threatened.
Early goals always have a good effect and the Ravens duly obliged with a well taken goal by Will. He added another shortly afterwards before more pressure from the Ravens led to some good defending. 2-0 at half time and a few changes were made to give all the squad a fair crack.
Injuries during the second half upset the balance a little but Jamie still managed to score a hat trick and Dan played well out on pitch capping his performance with a well taken goal from a very impressive move down the right and great cross from Andrew.
At the back the Ravens looked solid with Ben T and Ben Y having good games and Keenan foraging forward. David R put in a Man of the Match performance with good defensive play and strong runs forward particularly one such run from his own box ending in a shot just past the post.
All in all, another very promising start. Last season saw a similar start which turned into a long unbeaten run, lets hope for the same this year. The starting eleven is still undecided with the squad looking to be the strongest yet. Still plenty to work on, such as more shooting practice and drills to improve first touch. Fitness will also again be on the agenda at training as we need to be sure we can maintain concentration for the whole game and not lapse due to tiredness...
Next weekend sees us away to Brookfield with some enforced changes. Lets see if the players coming in can make the most of the opportunity.
Starting line up:-
Luke, Ben Y, Ben T, David R, Keenan, Chris B, James B, Jack R, Haydon, Jack G, Jamie.
Report by Steve B.
