Under 15's Reports 2008-09
Two Mile Ash 2 Great Horwood 2
31st May 2009
The Ravens stuggled today in their last game of the season. They struggled with having defenders missing, they struggled with the pitch and they struggled to find their form on a hot and sunny Sunday afternoon.
The first half was dissapointing, in the past we would probably have been content not to concede too many on a day like today but this season the lads have matured and started to realise their potential so to be 2-0 down at the break was not good.
The first half was a succesion of through balls from the Ravens being called offside with a huge gap between our two lines of defence and midfield allowing the home team to exploit their chances and score a couple of pretty soft goals, particularly the second which saw an attacker allowed to cross the ball which somehow found its way into the net.
All the lads have really progressed this season to be at a level where they think for themselves and sort the game plan out as a team. Some half time pointers were taken on board with the second period seeing rare attacks into our half and wave after wave of attacks into the oppositions area.
All the second half the Ravens played the better football with David P having a stormer at right back, Andy battling down the wing and the rest of the back four of David, Keenan and James H all playing their part in keeping TMA quite.
At the other end some good play by Jamie was rewarded by some strong tackles from the opposition and Jack R, Dan and Ben B all played their part in creating chances. The most notable of which saw Jack R hit a ball from 35 yds only for it to curl in and smack the cross bar.
Joe pegged a goal back with a fine finish after good play had heaped pressure on TMA. At 2-1 the lads picked the ball out of the net and ran back to the half-way line knowing the game was theirs for the taking.
Several more opportunities were forced before a shot from Ben B found its way across the six yard box for James B to whack home for the equaliser.
Several bloody noses and a range of other knocks were evidence of the hard fought encounter and at the end a draw was probably a fair result, based on our performance. We know we have played better and on another day could have shown our class but at the end of a season, on hard and bumpy pitch, it was always going to be a bit of a lottery.
Ben B limped off having caught his stud in a rut and the lads did their best to get a winner but it wasnt to be.
Many, many positives to take from this season, todays display was probably not one of them, but to their credit they fought back to get a draw.
Next season we will be looking for that extra edge to push on and get amongst the promotion hopefuls.
MK Wanderers 6 Great Horwood 2
17th May 2009
Looking at the final score you might think this was an easy run out for the home team on their way to competing for the division. You would be mistaken.
Apart from a severe case of deja vu when the Wanderers almost scored with the same speed as our game away to Brookfield the defence stood up very well all game with Ben Turner being very impressive in dealing with the big lad up front. Attendance at training effected the starting line up but those who started played some excellent football and defended strongly. Only one good ball through the middle was able to just pass the outstretched leg of the defender as the home team opened the scoring.
A litle while later a corner found a free man in the 6yd box to slot home and that was it for first half goals. Some changes to the side during the half created a better balance to the team and they had started to create chances of their own.
Half time team talk agreed the team just needed to keep the ball a little better in the middle and final third and not always rely on the killer ball but otherwise keep doing the same.
The second half started brightly for the Ravens as they pushed forward to apply pressure to the Wanderers goal. Jamie had a shot go just wide after being put through by Jack and then Ben Baker pegged the score back with a well taken goal after a good through ball needed him to slot it past the keeper for 2-1 and it was game on.
The decisive goal was a real sucker punch as we once again fell foul to a shot from 35yds, with the wind behind the player seeing the ball soar into the net, all against the run of play.
Shortly afterwards a good move by MK saw the ball cleared along the goal line towards the corner flag only for a player to chip the ball back into the box onto the head of their striker who (towering over everyone) had an easy nod into the net (not much you can do about those !!).
Not to be outdone the mighty Ravens then scored their own headed goal with a great strike from Jack Reynolds after pressure had won a corner. At 4-2 we were still in the game. The tight physical battle, especially in defence, was creating an enjoyable game to watch albeit without the scoreline reflecting the equal battle. Will, David Randall, Ben Oxley, Ben Turner and then Keenan all did enough to upset the home teams rhythm.
Just when we thought we could get something out of the game another massive lob from distance found its way into the net for 5-2 and another late goal made it 6-2 for a dissapointing result after a good performance.
This season the divison has a distinct split between the top teams and the lower teams. Although I believe we deserve to be competing for the title the results show we have lacked that small edge required to win games like this consistently.
We have the ability, of that there is no doubt, as can be seen by the home win against MK Wanderers but narrow losses to the other top teams have made the difference to our league position which is something to work on for next seaon.
Great Horwood 7 Wing Raiders Jaguars 1
10th May 2009
The Ravens ended their home games this season with a comfortable performance on a glorious sunny afternoon when it was a little hot to run around playing football. With plenty of substitutes it was easy to keep the team fresh albeit at the expense of a little stability. However, this squad of players has no superstars and they all just slot into their role and work for the team.
Joe opened the scoring quite early with a lovely curling shot into the top corner from distance. Any thoughts the team could relax were then quickly dispelled when Wing equalised within a minute (or rather we scored for them!!).
Ben Baker restored the gap with another direct ball over the top and these same tactics were deployed to good effect again when Ben had a 1 vs 1 with the keepr and Jack Reynolds shot just wide without either adding to the score.
Jack R then took out his frustration from his earlier miss with a net busting strike that the keeper was fortunate to keep out of the way of. Midfield passing from Ben Turner and James Bennett were creating chances with Ben Baker having another 1 vs 1 with the keeper. Dan Elliott then hit the bar in what was a Man of the Match performance.
Ben Baker then cooly slotted home with a nice side foot shot before Dan again just failed to score this time going wide. Luke in goal had been under employed as the defence of David Randall, Keenan, Will and Ben Oxley did the usual job of snuffing most attacks. Jamie was creating chances and going past players with good skills and David Powley and Andy were busy breaking down the wing. Haydon was showing good touches and his usual enthusiasm as we wnt tin at the break 4-1 up.
The second half saw much the same pattern as the first with good football on display as the Ravens just kept the score ticking over whilst Ollie kept the Horwood goal safe. Ben Baker notching up his hat trick with a well worked goal ending with a dummy from Dan and cross from Haydon.
Dan finally got his goal with a well taken effort on the turn in the box and Jack R finished off the scoring after a good through ball from Joe.
All in all a job well done - our next game will a see a different approach as our opponents will be keen to avenge the defeat inflicted on them at Castlefields as they bid to win the Division. We will then finish the season after a weeks break with another away game at TMA.... The lads just need to keep playing their football to enjoy these last two games and give the crowd some more entertainment......
Brookfield Rangers 9 Great Horwood Ravens 0
19th April 2009
A shocking first half performance saw the Ravens concede 7 goals before restoring some pride in the second half.
The manager can be blamed for the first goals as a reshuffled defence didnt work out requiring another reshuffle after 10 minutes.
By this time the Ravens were already 3-0 down as the home team made the most of the small pitch and played it to their advantage chucking in big throws to the box or breaking quickly down their right or through the middle. The lads were a little 'caught in the headlights' as Brookfield started so quickly and gained the upper hand without breaking sweat.
We failed to deal with set pieces (throw ins and corners) all game but the first half was particularly poor - something to discuss at training this week. As the game went on the lads were trying to play their football but were not used to such a small pitch and kept being caught out or passes intercepted. More changes to the team to keep them fresh saw some improvement but as the half ended a corner was sent over for an attacker to have a completely free header which just about summed up the first half.
Talk at the break requested the team focus on doing their jobs and to stop making the other team look so good. To their credit they went out after the break and put in a much better performance conceding only after a short clearance was sent back with interest and then finally right at the end when a 50/50 ball saw the goalkeeper not given the benefit of the doubt for a 9-0 score.
Despite several chances being created from the Ravens, such as Ben T winning the ball followed by a shot from Dan, the Ravens ended the game having failed to score in only the second game this season.
They all felt a little hard done by at the end. We were beaten by a better team on the day but had suffered by being far too generous in the first half. I am sure better things are to come for the remainder of the season so we will discuss a couple of areas for improvement and put the rest down to a 'bad day at the office'.........
Brackley Athletic Jaffas 1 Great Horwood Ravens 3
5th April 2009
Another very entertaining game from the Ravens as they continue their form. The opening fifteen minutes saw some of the best football so far this season as intelligent play and neat triangles of football saw the Ravens play their way up the pitch.
Jack R opened the scoring with one of his special lobs from distance but much to their credit Brackley bounced back almost immediately with their own equally audacious lob which just snuck in under the bar to bring the scores level.
Some good play across the back particularly with James H , Ben O and Keenan saw some sensible and strong defending. David P was the highlight of the half as he juggled the ball up in the corner with his back to the attacker to knock it over his head and bring the ball away.... great stuff....
Jack R hit the bar before changes started to be made to keep the lads fresh on a very warm afternoon (some lads were also struggling a bit from yesterdays scout camp).
1-1 at the break and all to play for in the second half
The second half was much the same as the first with good posession play from both sides mixed with some more direct football as balls were hit through the middle. A good strike on goal from James B was saved by the keeper whilst at the other end Olly had to make a good save, and get a little injured in the process.
As the half wore on the Ravens were in the ascendency with Andy and Haydon hassling players and Joe pressing in the middle. Jamie converted this pressure into a lead. David P also had a one-on-one before another very cool finish from Jamie - beting players before passing the ball into the corner of the net - eased any remaining nerves for the Ravens to run out 3-1 winners.
Great Horwood Ravens 3 Brookfield Rangers 4
22nd March 2009
A very entertaining, close fought game saw Horwood narrowly miss out on the points. The visitors shocked the home team by scoring within the first ten seconds. A ball forward direct from the kick off eluded everyone only for the striker to smash it home. The goal proved to be decisive as Horwood fought back after first conceding another. 2-1 at the break after Jack Reynolds scored from a quick break.
The very even first half continued in the second as strong challenges and good football from both sides made it an enjoyable game to watch. A clever turn inside the area created enough space for the Brookfield striker to slot home. Shortly afterwards it was Horwoods turn to cut open the defence with Jack Reynolds scoring again after a good move involving Jamie Seddon and Ben Baker.
At 3-2 Horwood were maintaining the pressure but couldn’t quite make up the gap. As they pressed forward Brookfield had a strong run down their right breaking through three tackles to cross the ball and score for 4-2.
Again the response from Horwood was quick as a ball forward was picked up by Joe Moyle who turned inside his marker to cut across the box and score for 4-3.
Time run out for Horwood to level the score as they went on to rue the opening ten seconds….
Hanslope Hornets 1 Great Horwood Ravens 6
15th March 2009
The Ravens chalked up a result which makes this season the best season so far for the squad. 
The double celebration for today marked Jack R not only netting his 50th goal in 11-a-side football for the club but also going on to score a hat-trick.
Playing on a smaller pitch than last week, but at least one which was flat and free from tractor ruts, the Ravens started brightly.
A good shot from Jack R just flew over the bar and other chances were created as the Ravens heaped the pressure on. However, the ball was spending a lot of time bouncing around and up in the air as the Ravens couldnt quite get their neat brand of football going.
Luke was called on a few times in goal as Hanslope broke forward but overall the defence coped admirably all day. Particular mention to Ben O who had a great game doing the simple things, playing he ball when needed or putting it out to start again when necessary.
Jamie was trying to get the ball down and play it and the rest of the team were looking to build up play. Joe opened the scoring with a good burst through and a lovely interplay between James B and Joe almost resulted in another on the edge of the box.
 A request to get the ball on the ground and play was duly acted on when Jamie knocked the ball inside for the ball to be played to Ben B, a nice pass inside the defender found Haydon who cut in on his left and despatched a lovely finish for the best move of the game so far and a 2-0 lead.
2-0 at the break and the home team were struggling with injuries. We took advantage in the second half and played a little more football. A feature of the first half had been 'player of the week' Jack R big throw which we had not capitalised on; something for training on Thursday.
The second half saw a similar pattern to the first with the Ravens looking to break with balls through the middle. A shot from distance from Ben O was the closest chance in the first 15 minutes but then Ben T nearly finished off a good move, only to hit the post with a nice shot.
Dan then hit a lovely goal from a full 20yds when the ball fell nicely for him to smack back into the net for 3-0.
Jack R finally got his 50th goal after a through ball from Joe to go 4-0 up. He pounced again to go 5-0 and then a beautifully executed chip finished the Ravens scoring for a 6-0 lead.
At the other end Keenan, David R, James H and Ben O were snuffing out most attacks until Hanslope broke through into the box and found themselves with a penalty.
Up stepped the home team striker, and up stepped Ollie to make a great save!!
Ben T had a shot just go over the bar and then at the other end a great strike from 20yds struck the underside of the bar to go in and end the scoring at 6-1.
Overall a good result form the Ravens. We have played better football this season, and I am sure the lads are looking forward to moving up though the gears again over the next few weeks as we come up against stronger opposition........
Well done lads...... there's a lot more to come this season!!!
Leighton Corinthians 3 Great Horwood Ravens 0
8th March 2009
The Ravens suffered today from a combination of factors. The poor pitch conditions made it a lottery for any competition in the midfield and suited the home teams more direct style of play.
Overall Leighton deserved their win as they are obviously more used to the conditions and looked threatening every time they lobbed the ball forward.
The Ravens just never got their game going. All the squad tried their hardest and tried to do the right things but apart from pockets of play where we were able to open up the home side we struggled to find the fluidity which has been evident in recent games.
The game started with a sustained period of pressure from Horwood playing up the hill. Leighton had two good chances on the break and this set the general trend for the game.
A quick break from Leighton opened the scoring as the ball bounced off the defence and fell to a yellow shirt to tuck home.
The second goal came after a poor decision to clear across goal was picked up by a Leighton player who turned and shot inside the post.
At the other end James H had a great header from a corner which was somehow dragged off the line by the keeper. If that had gone in it may have been enough to unsettle Leighton but its result pretty much summed up the day for the under 15's.
A couple of mistakes was all the difference for a 2-0 score at the break. We hadnt used the width or had anywhere near the passing game we are coming to expect from this group of lads. The emphasis at half time was to try and ignore the 'ploughed field' in the middle of the pitch and get the ball wide. The absence of a couple of players had also not been taken into account in the type of passes being made so the lads were asked to just look to feet and to 'play football'.
A couple of changes at the break saw Jamie and Dan come on and they almost immediately increased the successful pass rate with some good short link-up passes.
Dissapointingly the third goal was conceded from a corner...... dissapointing after so much effort has been spent recently on corners... something to raise at training on thursday....
The remainder of the game saw Leighton trying to break and the Ravens trying to play the ball into the box to create chances. David P had to come off after turning his ankle in one of the deep ruts in the middle of the park (an indication of how bad it was) and those remaining on the pitch, especially player of the week Joe, put all their effort into a game they knew was struggling to be a classic.
At the end the lads should be congratulated for their efforts... a lot could be put down to the quality of the pitch but sometimes it's just not your day...... this is the first game all season that we have failed to score....
A couple of things to work on in training but the lads shouldn't be too dissappointed as they know their confidence and ability will bring much better days to come.
Great Horwood Ravens 3 MK Wanderers 2
1st March 2009
The Ravens today played their most mature performance so far against league leaders MK Wanderers.
The weekend had not started well with news of injury to our two most prolific strikers and another striker not feeling well. However, team selection was still able to field a strong side due to the strength in depth of the squad.
Yesterdays MKDons matchday experience also had a positive effect on the warm ups and the defensive organisation at corners throughout the game. All good stuff....
The game started with the visitors demonstrating the confidence of their league position with Luke being called upon to make a great save very early. The Ravens looked to play their football but the Wanderers were on the rampage early on and scored the opener after a strong cross from an indirect kick inside our box.
Not long afterwards David P, playing up front with Jamie, was fouled on the edge of the box and the resultant free kick caused some stress to the visitors before Ben T had a shot just go over the bar.
The Ravens (although they were behind) played with some style and it wasn't long before David P equalised with an audacious lob from 30yds. Throughout the remainder of the half the Ravens continued to play good football, passing and knocking it wide before they got their just reward just before the break as a brilliant ball from Andy found David P who slotted home for a 2-1 lead right on the whistle.
David R and James H had both come off injured during the first half as the intense physical battle took its toll. The squad readjusted admirably just leaving Luke as a an emergency substitute as Ollie went in goal to increase his experience.
The second half was a tighter affair with the Ravens competing for every ball. What was particularly pleasing was the desire and aggression shown throughout the team but especially by the defence as they didn't allow the opposition to settle on any ball and constantly put them under pressure. MK Wanderers may have been top but we didn't let them look like the top side as we forced them into errors.
Apart from a ten minute spell in the second half when the Ravens stopped passing they never really allowed the visitors to build any pressure. Nevertheless the visitors certainly had chances, one of which resulted in the equaliser as they nicked a ball between keeper and defence after a good break. But for the most part Will, Ben O, Ben T and Keenan protected Ollie in goal who was also quick off his line to close the opposition down when required.
At the other end Andy had a great run and shot before the decisive goal was scored by Jamie's intelligent return of the ball from a poor goal kick. A quick look up and shot from fully 30yds found the net for a well deserved lead which the Ravens then protected with maturity in their play until the final whistle.
The Ravens, with this performance, have now equalled their best ever points total with 9 games still to play.
Come on the Ravens.... and congratulations on an excellent squad performance!!!!!!
Great Horwood Ravens 3 Brackley Athletic Jaffas 1
22nd February 2009
A good performance from the Ravens as they start the second half of the season now just three points away from their best ever points total.
The team started brightly and created several chances with the ball just going wide right or wide left. Then, against the run of play the visitors took the lead from the edge of the box with a lobbed shot finding its way into the net after 10 minutes. As the half progressed the team were showing they were a bit rusty after the break since our last game. However, they were still trying to play the football we all know they are capable of and they gradually started to reassert themselves and take control of the game. Although a fair amount of play was scrappy it was interspersed with moments of quality from the Ravens as they played their way out from defence or cut open the opposition with incisive passing.
A great pass from Joe found Jack R alone and apparently not offside which gave him time to hit a lovely shot only for it to hit the bar. Fortunately Ben B was awake to the possibility and headed home the rebound to equalise 5 minutes before half time. We would probably been happy to go in at 1-1 but almost on the stroke of half time Jack was put through again and this time calmly chipped the keeper for a deserved 2-1 lead.
Talk at the break concentrated on the need to start brightly and not give anything away as we had the possibility of de-motivating the opposition if we didn't allow them to get back into the game. As it was, the team did even better and as people were still exiting the pavilion some neat passing on the edge of the visitors penalty area between James B and Joe ended with James putting Jack R through to calmly slot home inside the left hand post for a 3-1 lead.
The remainder of the half saw periods of more scrappy play with the Ravens still occasionally breaking through for Jack R to go wide and Joe had a good effort after David P won the ball on the edge of the box. Another high point being the lovely passing move involving Jamie and Ben O which ended with a glancing header from James B into the path of Ben B causing the keeper to make a good save.
At the back we were sometimes caught out but the aggression and good tackling from David R and Will or the calm play from Ben O or Player of the Week Keenan was enough to limit any chances. Those that did get through were dealt with by Luke in goal.
Overall a very pleasing result with a return to some of the quality of earlier games. There is still more to come from this side as next week brings another tough home game.
Come on the Ravens!!!!
Great Horwood Ravens 1 Wootton Blue Cross 2
1st February 2009
Another very tight game in tough conditions. All the lads on both teams did well to play any football as the very cold windy conditions made it difficult for the Ravens to play the silky football we are becoming accustomed to seeing at Castlefields on a Sunday afternoon.
The Ravens won the toss and decided to go with the conditions. The first half saw few chances with the Ravens being just a little short of their best, probably due to the cold weather and strong wind but a very even game saw the deadlock broken when a big shot from distance saw its way into the goal to give Wootton a 1-0 lead. At the other end successive corners and good pressure from the home side went unrewarded as both teams defended well with good aggression and pace throughout the sides.
Half time came with a 1-0 deficit and a request for better communication and a need to move those extra couple of metres to make yourself available. The defence were already aware of the conditions and showed their increase in experience and knowledge by being able to drop deep at the right time to suit the weather. This experience and right decision making never gave the opposition the chance to lob the ball over the top which in the past has been a weakness.... very pleasing to see....
As the second half started Ben B showed his undoubted skill and tenacity to break through and score the equaliser. Most people hadn't ventured out of the warmth of the pavilion to witness the goal but it was well deserved for a 'man of the match' player who always gives his all for the team...
The remainder of the half saw some end-to-end play with the Ravens gaining a free kick after James H had been felled on the edge of the box. Jamie's kick just failing to dip in time for the goal to be threatened. At the other end Ollie had taken over from Luke in goal to increase his experience and he was called on a few times to expertly pluck the ball from the air from corners or collect the ball after Wootton had made some good moves forward.
With about 15 minutes to go Wootton took the decisive lead after some poor collective defending allowed a player to just poke the ball home from close range. It felt at the time the goal may be enough as real chances had been so rare, but the Ravens responded admirably and from then on peppered the Wootton goal with scrambled chances and several good corners from Ben B and Jamie being cleared. David P returned to the action to replace Keenan as we gambled in going forward and although we again created chances it just wasn't to be for the Ravens. David R, Ben O, Keenan and Will had all defended strongly throughout. Midfield had all done their job and up front they had all run their heart out.
Overall we should not be downhearted by the performance but should be disappointed in the result. The quad just need to get that extra edge to win these tight games. Whether it be that killer pass, or just taking their chances, they need to ensure they get the rewards for their football ability.
Great Horwood Ravens 1 Leighton Corinthian 3
18th January 2009
A very enjoyable 'proper' game of football with a disappointing result.
High flying in-form Leighton were looking to go top today and with their new players from the other Leighton team they are certainly a much improved outfit, but then so are the Ravens and so the game proved with some high quality play on both sides.
The Ravens started brightly and overall were the best side in the first half. Unfortunately we didn't put away the chances created with Jack R and James B both going wide. We created a lot of opportunities over the 40 minutes but more importantly seemed to have learnt from recent performances and were a much tighter unit with good communication throughout the squad. Effort was there for all to see; with Haydon having to be substituted after running his socks off (as usual). However the best chance of the half, for all our pressure, fell to the visitors who came closest when they hit the bar All square at the break and no need to make any changes. With the mild wind against us there was just a request to 'shorten the game up a bit' to move the ball up the pitch.
Leighton opened the scoring with a scrappy goal to go 1-0 up. The Ravens responded well and continued their style of play to force mistakes in the Leighton defence. James H was sandwiched between defenders when bursting through for Jamie to slot away the resulting penalty and bring the scores level.
The game continued to be very tight with chances at both ends bit with just 5 minutes left the visitors gambled by pushing players forward to take advantage of the wind behind them and force a result.
The ball was lost in the middle and with defenders out of position Leighton poked it in to go 2-1 up. The Ravens still tried to get forward but with almost the last kick of the game a scrambled corner landed up in the net for a very harsh 3-1 score.
All the lads were rightly disappointed at the result but should be very encouraged by the performance. They deserved a draw at least but sometimes football is cruel.
United MK 5 Great Horwood Ravens 5
21st December 2008
The Ravens scored 5 again for the second game running but again almost gave the game away completely. This aspect will be the subject of much thought over the Christmas break and the main area to work on as the standard of overall play continues to be excellent and very enjoyable to watch.
The Ravens looked to be a little off the boil during the warm-up probably already thinking of their Christmas puddings and unfortunately it took a goal within the first couple of minutes to wake them from their slumber.
After the rude awakening of going behind the Ravens then went about playing some lovely passing and movement football which repeatedly opened up the United MK defence. It looked like it would be just a matter of time before we would score and so it proved. Ben Baker, with a perfectly crafted left foot shot. Shortly afterwards Haydon scored his first and then scored again finishing off an intricate sequence of passes with a great turn and shot inside the box.
3-1 at half time and the Ravens were well on top. Conditions would be against us in the second half but the quality on display meant confidence was high.
The second half saw the home team press forward more going down the hill with the wind behind them but the Ravens still looked very dangerous going forward and it wasn't long before Ben Baker increased the lead to 4-1 and then Jack R had an easy tap in after an error from the keeper. At 5-1 it should have been game over, but United MK had already come back from a deficit when we played them at home so they just went for it ....
A big shot from distance was the first to find the net then a good goal taken well just inside the corner of the penalty area nestled just inside the post for 5-3 and the home team were swarming forward. The Ravens still had some opportunities at the other end but a decision was taken to try and hold onto the win and shut up shop by packing midfield. This seemed to work until another big shot from distance found the net for 5-4 as the game came towards the end.
The equaliser was disputed by all Horwood players and management as the ball was judged to have already crossed the line by the time Luke saved a shot after a corner had been taken by the home team.
It was a goal, because the referee gave it as a goal.......
Shortly afterwards the final whistle went to end the game at 5-5. Discussion continued with the referee and the end of game team talk was a little disjointed as the general feeling was more that we had lost the game rather than drawn but when you are 5-1 up there really should be only one result.
In hindsight you can see the early goal after 90 seconds was the one that lost us the 2 points not the last goal, next game should see a brighter warm up and a little reminder of this game .
Great Horwood Ravens 5 Woodside Wanderers 4
7th December 2008
The Ravens played a very good first half and then struggled with conditions and a little lack of composure in the second half to nearly throw the game away. Thankfully they held on to take the three points and hopefully learn a little lesson in what it needs to close out a game they are comfortably winning.
The game started brightly for the Ravens with good attacking play leading to a corner. Ben B takes a very good corner and we are starting to learn how to get on the end of them. This time it was David P who got his head on the ball to open the scoring. Shortly afterwards a poor goal kick was delivered back with interest from Joe for Ben B to get on the end of it and slot home for 2-0 within ten minutes.
A few comments to hold shape were all that was needed for the remainder of the half as Woodside attacks were absorbed and then good football played to create chances on the break. Ben B then chased a lost cause to put the full back under pressure and win the ball for David to score his second.
The scoring was complete in the first half when Joe turned well in the box and finished neatly to go in at the break 4-0 up.
A few changes were made at half time with Ollie building on his experience in goal and he had much the busier half. Conditions meant identifying team mates looking into the sun was difficult but the Ravens never really reached the level of play from the first half. To their credit the first half dissent amongst the opposition was replaced with a positive attacking mentality that sought to exploit the lack of composure being shown sporadically throughout the team. Injuries throughout the game meant several changes had to made to the Ravens line-up with a special mention to Haydon whose football brain was called upon several times as he was asked to play three different positions.
Defensive mistakes led to the first goal for Woodside as they capitalised on indecision in the box . A good goal from distance really buoyed the opposition and it looked game on at 4-2. Jack R then burst through to finish with his customary aplomb and settle the nerves at 5-2..... but it wasn't to last.
Woodside hit the post and then another couple of examples of poor decision making from the home team saw the visitors back to 5-4.
The final whistle was very welcome for the Ravens as they returned to winning ways. A good hard game against friendly opposition, we always have good tight games against Woodside.
A brief chat at the end just asked the team to think about the need to close out games - dropping another player into midfield and a little more composure would have made all the difference today.
Great Horwood Ravens 2 Moretonville 5
23rd November 2008
League Cup Round 2
Well done to the mighty Ravens who with a little more luck could have progressed through to the next round.
The lads all played very well throughout the game but were just undone by a couple of long shots looping in under the bar and just missing out on a few chances themselves.
Three minutes into the game and Ben Baker burst through to nick the ball into the bottom right hand corner to take an early lead. For the remainder of the half the lads looked to play football but were always susceptible to the long ball game played by the opposition with occasional breaks down their left. Shortly before half time the visitors broke the offside and went through to equalise for a 1-1 scoreline at half time.
The second half saw the Ravens continue to play good football with the little triangles of play between the various units and the defence play well especially Luke in goal. David made some great challenges and throughout the squad they all added that little extra bite.
An injury to a defender caused a little confusion at the back which led to the visitors second goal, it all happened very quickly but was just enough to upset the balance for a little while. The luck just didn't go for the Ravens as the ball just wouldn't bounce right in the box or loose balls wouldn't find a Raven whilst at the other end two speculative lobs from distance just looped under the bar.
Having said that the Ravens never let their heads drop and they continued to play their football and deservedly got anther goal when Andy nipped in to slot one in. At 4-2 is was game on again but as the Ravens piled on the pressure they couldn't find that extra goal which would have seen an interesting end to the game. Unfortunately for the Ravens they again let the long ball find space and the visitors restored the gap to 5-2.
All the squad should proud of their efforts today, the gap between Division 2 and 4 is obviously closing and on a different day we could have won the game, as it was, the scoreline definitely flattered Moretonville.
Special mention must go today to Ray Heath who did a great job running the line under pressure from both sides. The extra little bit of tension that comes with a Cup game sometimes spilling over from friendly banter to unacceptable behaviour in light of the FA respect campaign. We all need to remember everyone is a volunteer and especially thankful when they do such a good job.
To end the day the lads went out singing "always look on the bright side of life""........... marvellous...
Great Horwood Ravens 3 United MK 3
16th November 2008
Wow... what a game...... this one had everything ......
The Ravens started brightly and stroked the ball around as we are becoming accustomed to seeing. Lovely movement and accurate passing saw them make good progress towards the final third but they consistently failed to penetrate the opposition defence. At the other end our defence were coping very well with some big lads and direct play but we kept on being pressured down our left as the visitors overloaded the right wing and created chances.
A good goal from the visitors in the aftermath of a corner opened the scoring and it was soon doubled when they shot from outside the box and a wicked deflection sent Luke the wrong way.
2-0 ....not quite against the run of play but the Ravens were just a little off the pace and as comments made by the players themselves at half time confirmed they were being just a little too casual in their play.
Changes to stop the attacks down our left were effective and the second half was totally different as the lads bounced back. Joe forced his way into the box to claw one back and then Ben B scored a couple for the mighty Ravens to deservedly take the lead.
Haydon had been taken off after a Man of the Match performance - not only for his time on the ball but also demonstrating he was thinking about the game and communicating with his team mates accordingly. Jamie had another good game and overall the standard of passing by the Ravens was a joy to watch. At the back we sometimes got in each others way so communication will be worked on this week but we never really looked troubled as Luke acted as a sweeper when necessary.
Just when it looked like the three points would be safe in the bag the visitors broke away and scored to level the match and although there was still a couple of minutes left on the clock we couldn't find the opening to grab the win our standard of play deserved.
This result extends the unbeaten run to 6 games but it was tinged with a little disappointment as the second half performance looked like it would keep the winning run going. Lets see next weeks cup game as a chance to extend the unbeaten run even further.
Wing Raiders Pumas 2 Great Horwood Ravens 9
2nd November 2008
A very strange game saw the unbeaten run for the Ravens continue with lots of sporting gestures throughout the game.
The nature of the game led to a below par performance in midfield with the exception of Jamie who continued his recent run of form. Discipline in keeping the shape of the team needs to be reinforced in training if we are to keep this run going but overall it would be difficult to criticise any players after a run out on a cold and damp Sunday afternoon.
Jack R scored after enjoying several strong runs into the box. Ben B scored in both halves with the best goal being taken on the turn. Jamie flicked a goal in from a corner and Joe burst through to net a goal in the second half. Dan nodded an easy goal in after a poor clearance across goal from a defender.
Passing at the beginning of the first half was good and the back four played it very cool and passed the ball around all game. The holes in midfield need to be plugged for our next game in two weeks and more movement up front will also be required. Well done to the lads for enjoying today, not the easiest of games to play in.
Woodside 1 Great Horwood Ravens 3
26th October 2008
Some forced changes to the team demonstrated the strength in depth of the squad.
Woodside have not enjoyed a good start to the season but the team they put out today contained many good players which in previous seasons would have probably seen a loss for Horwood.
This squad are starting to add a little mettle to their ability and although we didn't play our passing game consistently the squad defended very well throughout the team with Ollie enjoying a man of the match performance in goal.
Whenever the team did string passes together they looked the better team and cut open the opposition several times down both wings and through the middle. Close shots from Jamie were the highlight of the first twenty minutes with the Ravens playing some good football around the edge of the box but not being able to put much pressure on the keeper.
At the other end we were being dragged around a bit with the home team overloading alternate sides but strong tackling and good sweeping by Ollie kept the goal safe.
Dan was introduced up front and shortly afterwards finished off a lovely move instigated by Jamie down the left - crossing it in for Dan to neatly side foot it home in first half injury time.
Half time concentrated on the movement and discipline needed to shuffle across the pitch and help out team mates. The squad played the second half very well again and snuffed out the main attack when Will was dropped to right back and Andy came on to play very well on the right.
Jack R came back on with renewed enthusiasm and had a great run down the left followed by a cross which Andy eventually picked up on the goal line at the edge of the box. Good communication from Haydon led to a nice ball being played back for Haydon to neatly slot into the bottom left hand corner for 2-0.
Woodside were a bit deflated at this point and Horwood were in the ascendancy. Within a few minutes Jack R used his strength to muscle through and finish with his usual aplomb for a 3-0 scoreline.
If anything the score was a little flattering to the Ravens who just switched off a little for the last five minutes and invited pressure. With just seconds to go, a long shot found its way into the net for 3-1 and a few reminders from the sidelines to keep the discipline and concentration going.
Woodside are a good strong physical team whose qualities do not match their league position. We should enjoy the fact the result extends our winning run to four games but we will need to be at our best when we play them again in a few weeks time.
Steeple Claydon 2 Great Horwood Ravens 4
19th October 2008
The same team as .the last few weeks would have started but two changes were forced. The players coming in duly took their chance and David P had a storming game alongside Jack R, with Will performing admirably on the right but went off with a slight injury.
The Ravens started very well and had some really good passages of play before Jamie's run in the box led to Joe opening the scoring. Several missed chances followed before a mistake at the back allowed the home team to sneak in and score an equaliser for 1-1 at half time.
The ball had been bouncing around a bit during the first half so we concentrated on getting it down and playing football for the second half. Claydon started well and it needed Luke to pull off a great save to keep the scores level.
A typical Claydon goal gave Horwood the lead when a straight ball through the middle gave David P a one-on-one to slot it in for 2-1.
It wasn't long before another break from Horwood saw David with another one-on-one but this time David was wrestled to the ground for a penalty - in the premiership the keeper would have been off but local junior football has different rules. Jamie stepped up to calmly place the penalty inside the post for a well deserved 3-1 lead.
The back four were looking good albeit with a little loss of discipline on occasion, but Keenan was having a Man of the Match performance keeping his position and being strong when needed. James H came off injured and Ben T was given a run out at left back as it is one of the few positions where we don't have recognised cover.
The Ravens were looking good but still raised the blood pressure a little when Claydon poured forward. Two block tackles were not enough to keep the ball out when the rebound fell kindly for the home team player to finish well into the roof of the net for 2-3. A free kick from outside the box was also well hit and scrambled away after Luke had made the initial save.
We were breaking well down the wings and after one through ball had gone out for a throw, we pressured Claydon into making a mistake and David P finished the scoring with his second goal - a well taken strike from just outside the box looping over the keeper and into the goal.
Overall, very good in patches with lots of positives to extend the unbeaten run to three games. We still need to work on our discipline at the back and be a bit tighter in the middle but the competition up front is sparking some very impressive displays.
Great Horwood Ravens 5 Brackley Athletic Jaffas 2
League Cup Round 1:- 12th October 2008
The new selection regime was again in evidence with positive results. The Ravens put on another good display to follow on from last weeks first half.
The team played the whole game with confidence and new found desire which was a joy to see. The same starting line up as last week played some good football after a slow start but went behind after a flukey bouncing cross found its way into the net for the visitors to go 1-0 up.
The Ravens soon bounced back with their brand of football for Jack R to equalise and go 1-1 at the break. Half time concentrated on getting the ball out wide to make the most of the width and the same team started the second half.
Within a couple of minutes the Ravens were ahead again when a through ball found Ben B to calmly go on and chip the keeper. Brackley were still very much in the game and had a shout for a goal which for the second time in the match was just saved on the line by Luke. A quick clearance found James B whose through ball went to Jack to go and score for 3-1. This should have been game over but a free kick was conceded very soon afterwards on the edge of our box and expertly put away by the visitors for 3-2.
The Ravens continued to play good football and let a couple of chances go, one of which just skimmed the post from Ben B after a great through ball from Man of the Match Jamie. Jack R completed his hat trick to ease any residual nerves before Andy came on to score an impressive header from a corner to end the scoring at 5-2.
Lots of positives from today's display, the teamwork, the growing strength and discipline in defence. James H solo displays of skill and agility (particularly in the first half) and the blend of players working well together.
But probably the most impressive fact from today was the level of performance that is keeping some very good players either on the bench or not even in today's squad.
Great Horwood Ravens 3 Two Mile Ash 2
(5th October 2008)
Having played so poorly in their last game the lads looked to put some pride in their play and get back to the quality of football they are capable of.
The first half showed a vast improvement and they played some really good football stroking the ball around and showing the right level of aggression to compete for the ball. James B and Joe combining very well in the middle.
Jack R opened the scoring very early and it helped settle the rest of the team. Playing against the wind they did very well to keep the ball. Early release of the ball would have opened up the opposition more but overall the team were tighter and more disciplined in defence. Still lots to work on but a good start....
Ben B doubled the lead when Jack R was fouled but continued the play to run on and cross, Ben just nodding the ball easily past the keeper.
At the other end Luke was being called on to make some good saves as a very even game saw the balance go to the Ravens.
The gap was increased again when Jack's shot found its way to the goal to make it 3-0. The visitors were still causing us problems at the back and eventually got their reward on the stroke of half time when a through ball was run onto and a good shot just beat both David R and Luke to go in at the break 3-1 up.
Changes made shortly after half time disrupted the balance of the team and it took a little while for us to settle again. Ollie made his league debut in goal and did well when called upon.
Shots from Ben B and a couple of forays forward were the highlight as Two Mile Ash increased pressure on the defence when the midfield left big gaps through the middle. A run down their left ended with a 2nd goal for the visitors and an increase in blood pressure for all spectators.
Another change to the middle settled the team as they saw out the last few minutes for a well deserved first win of the season.
Training will again focus on defensive units as we look to build on the progress made this week. We have played better but this performance should start to instil the confidence in the team and reinforce what is needed to compete.
Great Horwood Ravens 1 Steeple Claydon 5
(21st September 2008)
Missing players led to a choice in starting line up which was never really resolved. Four different right backs give an indication of the dilemma , coupled with an ineffectual attacking force, a 12- 3 victory on Fun Day over Claydon, and opposition who play the same way as they have done for the last four years........... a recipe for disaster.... and so it proved....
Some blame must go to the management for failing to resolve some of the problems but the players need to sit down and consider if today's performance was acceptable.
The Ravens strength is in playing football, passing the ball on the ground and making simple triangles across the pitch. Missing players or not, the Ravens failed to string any number of passes together as they reduced their game to the oppositions aerial game and head tennis.
We simply must want to improve this performance, we cannot be happy with having played for 4 years to revert to the standard of play on show today.
Midweek training focussed on getting goal kicks to be improved and this was achieved today with Luke's kicks. David R gave a captains performance in defence and Ben O did a great job completing what was asked of him. Dan E played well up front and James B played well when in possession.
We have a week off next week and therefore have two weeks training before our next game. A little talk will be asking the players what they want to do but from my perspective we are 'Training to Train' which means effort and desire to show the will to improve in training will judge team selection.
We play Claydon again in 4 weeks.
Wootton Blue Cross 8 Great Horwood Ravens 1
(14th September 2008)
The Ravens suffered some tough luck and a below par performance in the first half to lose their opening game.
A close call for offside saw the home team open the score after a very even opening period of play. Shortly afterwards we lost the ball just over the half way line and failed to recover quick enough allowing Wootton to double their lead. A strange penalty led to the third when everyone stopped to see why the whistle had blown, only for a handball to be given....
In between times Ben T had a fantastic shot saved by the keeper who was at full stretch to push the ball onto the bar.
Having chalked up a comprehensive victory last week and now seeing themselves 3 goals to the good the home team started to play with confidence and the Ravens looked a little under the weather failing to string any sort of passes together. Wootton's new player this season will be a big boost for them as he looked to try and run the show. David R at he back was being called on to make several last gasp tackles and Will was making good runs forward.
Not for the first time we were caught out from our corner, a quick break saw pressure leading to Wootton gaining a corner, from which they scored to make it 4-0. Their new player again proved too strong after a big shoulder barge from our defence hardly move him and he went onto to score the home teams fifth.
Talk at half time concentrated on playing our game, passing the ball, not panicking and going out to win the second half. To their credit the lads responded and played a much better second half. Very quickly they scored when Jack R hit the bar for Ben B to follow up and tuck the ball away for 5-1.
If we could have scored another quick goal it would have been interesting to see the response but the Ravens couldn't really get their goal scoring going and as the half wore on the home team again scored twice to ease any doubts. The final goal was a contender for goal of the season as their new player controlled the ball, beat a player and then blasted into the top right hand corner from fully 40yds.... a goal to be applauded...
Overall we should be disappointed with the performance and the result. We are far better than the scoreline suggests and the lads should be keen to prove it in next weeks game and particularly when we get Wootton at home later in the season....
Great Horwood Ravens 12 Steeple Claydon 3
"The Swan Cup"
(31st August 2008)
The Ravens got off to a flier in awful, wet conditions. The game looked like it was going to be a cricket score after the first five minutes when every attack seemed to end with a goal. 
Will set the ball rolling with a great finish in the opening minute. This was quickly followed by Ben Bakers first goal for the club. At the other end Claydon burst through to open their account before Joe also scored on his debut.
Claydon played with a high line trying to catch our strikers offside and it took a while for us to work it out.
A lull in scoring lasted until Ben B burst through to score his second then complete his hat trick.
Joe notched up another then Haydon burst through the offside trap to go on and finish expertly for a 7-1 score at half time.
 Four changes at half time did little to upset the balance as Jack R got his name on the scoresheet before Claydon again bounced back for 8-2. Jack R scored his second then Will before Jack R completed his impressive hat trick - especially the lobbed shot from the edge of the box.
In between Claydon had again sneaked another goal for 11-3 before Jamie made up his mind he was going to score and run round defenders to slot one in for a 12-3 final score.
Claydon were missing some of their players but overall a very promising start for the mighty Ravens....
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Great Horwood Football Club
Seniors:- Firsts and Reserves
Juniors:- Under 15's, 12's 11's,10's 9's, 8's 7's an for this year only Under 6's
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