Sunday League Team Teamtalks
16 August 2009 | 09 August 2009 | 02 August 2009 | 26 July 2009 | 19 July 2009 | 12 July 2009 | 21 June 2009 | 14 June 2009 | 7 June 2009 | 31 May 2009 | 17 May 2009 | 10 May 2009 | 26 April 2009 | 19 April 2009 | 12 April 2009 | 5 April 2009 | 2008 Season Review | 7 September 2008 | 31 August 2008 | More 2008 Teamtalks
16 Aug 2009: All Stars 3 CSFC 4
Well, last league game for 2009 and what a time to try to complete the league unbeaten.
The last few weeks have caused problems with various injuries being sustained, which had big affect as we only had 11 players available.
Chris Friend went on the bench and if required would have gone in goal, allowing John Walsh to become the main target man up front (thankfully this move was not required).
Anyway, the game was played and the lads performed extremely well.
In the first half we scored a good goal with some nicely played football that allowed Peter Evans to go through the defence to pass to Gazza to score. A great team goal.
We also had Steve Potter convert the first of 2 penalties.
We had some bad luck when the ball deflected onto one of our team's arms for a penalty to the opposition. They also converted a "fortunate" header that looped over John and also finished a nice drive into the bottom corner.
Half time and the team were ready to take the game and get back the goals given away.
The second half was similar as both teams had possession. It was what we did with ours that won us the game. We attacked their goal at all opportunities and were rewarded with another penalty that Steve put away. 3-all and game really was on.
We had a few defective concerns however the team took these in their stride and fought back to secure victory.
As Tony Green would advise… he took the ball from his own half, played a few 1-2s, and then went around his defender to "drive" the ball into the back of the net.
4-3 and the game was ours.
Well that's it for the league for 2009.
In a few weeks we face Azzurri in the Bolam Cup final at English Park.
Player of the day - Andy Anderson.
As always, many thanks again to the supporters, as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
09 Aug 2009: CSFC A 3 CSFC B 1
Today we again sealed the CSSL Div 1 title.
This was not an easy game as the Bs came to pay and try to disrupt our celebrations.
This is the best game we have played against the Bs for 2 years. Last year they were hard however today they were hungry for the game.
Did we take them lightly… maybe however it was a great wake up call.
Anyway the final score line was a win 3-1 and the title's ours.
A short report as we now look to the All Stars game to try to go thru the season unbeaten.
Player of the day - Steve Potter.
As always, many thanks again to the supporters, as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
02 Aug 2009: Bolam Cup SF CSFC 2 Glenbyre 1
Today we faced our closest rival in the league, Glenbyre, for the right to play in the Bolam Cup Final in a few weeks.
As predicted, this was a tough, hard fought game.
We had lost Craig Gault earlier in the week due to an injury at work. Peter Evans was back and Lee Reynolds made a return to the bench. A call to John McManus for coverage of goalkeeper was also answered. Alex Kelley and Alan Walker were also available after sustaining injuries last week.
Just like the previous games, this one also started at a hectic pace. Glenbyre was trying to take the early advantage and this they did as the drove a goal after 7 minutes of the game.
The lads then asserted themselves well and we took control of the game. We forced a few saves, created a few opportunities and defended any counter-attacks well. After 37 minutes, we finally finished off a move, when Jeremy put the ball into the net. This was followed up 5 minutes later, when Gazza got a touch to the ball for it to pass the keeper and cross the line for our second.
We dominated the first half and deserved to be leading at half-time.
The second half was totally different, Glenbyre increased their efforts. They chased everything and kept the pressure upon our players. They played the offside rule well, as we had quite a few counter-attacks stopped by this play.
Well, in the end of the day, we took the game 2-1 to the great enjoyment of the team.
We suffered a few minor injuries and one serious one, with Chris taken to the after-hours for checking a suspected broken ankle. This has turned out to be a very bad sprain.
Player of the day – Andy Anderson.
As always, many thanks again to the supporters, as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
26 Jul 2009: CSFC B 0 CSFC A 9
Today we played the B Team in the Div 1. A game that last year produced a load of passion and 2 tight games were fought out. Today, totally different as the Bs have been struggling for a team and today was no different as they started with 9 players.
This was another step in a progress towards next week's Bolam Cup semi-final.
Nervous on the side… yes I was, as playing a team with a lower number of players can sometimes be your demise... Today that would not happen.
The first couple of minutes were scrappy, however we then started to control the ball and played possession football. 5 minutes in and Steve Potter collected the first goal.
We again played some good football only to be halted by some fine keeping by Shane in goal for the Bs.
Chris got our second after 12 minutes and this settled the team. We played good football and drove into the goalmouth again to be stopped by Shane and his defenders.
Chances were being presented, however not taken until the 33 minute mark when Ben McNabb scored his first. This was followed up 5 minutes later when Chris scored his second.
Half-time 4-0.
The second half was again one of possession and drive as we went forward for more goal-scoring opportunities. These were again stopped by Shane and the defence. However, we were not to be denied and Gazza collected 2, Ben scored 2 more and Jeremy collected 1.
Final Score 9-0.
Next week we will travel to the semi-final for the Bolam Cup against Glenbyre.
Player of the day – Jeremy Friend.
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
19 Jul 2009: CSFC 20 Zim United 0
A couple of weeks ago we went thru what I called a gutsy performance to hold Glenbyre to a draw. Today we faced a team that we did not even know would turn up or how many. Well that was answered with 10 minutes before kick off… they had 8 players. As we had an official ref, the game took place.
Quick details - Goal Scorers and times for each goal:
| Ben McN | Gary J | Jeremy | Alex K | Tony G | Steve P | Hayden | Chris | Own Goal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05 | 12 | 69 | 77 | 17 | 31 | 79 | 85 | 50 |
| 11 | 26 | 72 | 89 | |||||
| 18 | 61 | 80 | ||||||
| 24 | 75 | |||||||
| 28 | ||||||||
| 83 |
A couple of changes bought Alex Kelley and Alan Walker into the starting 11. We had a great chance to get on the scoreboard in the first minute only to miss the opportunity.
11 against 8 was never going to be a problem, the only problem was making sure the 11 worked together to gain the correct result. This was done to the pleasure of the people watching. Great viewing as we were 9-nil up at halftime and completed the second half with a result of 20-0.
Alan Walker had to leave at halftime and Chris replaced him on the right.
Tony Green redid a hamstring injury and was replaced by Hayden Paterson who was the player of the day in his previous match – you know the gutsy one against Glenbyre. Hayden also scored his first goal in this game, a well placed penalty, to the obvious appreciation from the deck and the team.
Ben Norris went on for the final 20 minutes and gave Gazza a rest.
There was some good football was played during this game and not all by Coastal Spirit. Zim played with spirit and did not revert to any inappropriate tactics which we appreciated.
Well 20 goals is something that does not occur often so we will take the goals to better our goal difference and move towards next Sunday with the game away to the B team.
Player of the day – Ben McNabb.
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
12 Jul 2009: Bolam Cup QF - All Stars v CSFC
Cup games - always tough, and today was no exception.
We gained some players back today, to give us a stronger squad to get us through to the semi finals for the Bolam Cup.
Avonhead Park was to turn into a mud bath. The conditions to play football deteriorated very quickly once the game started.
For the first 25 minutes, we dominated possession and scored 2 good goals.
Each had good build up play and were nicely slotted away to give us a nice lead.
Goal 1 - Jeremy Friend
Goal 2 - Ben McNabb
Well, then things changed as the ground got worse. It was hard to hold your feet and even harder to control the slippery ball. It was one of those moments when we lost possession; they took the ball and slotted the ball into the goal. 2-1 and the pressure was back on.
Half time and we were still 2-1 up. We need to take control by keeping possession, then creating opportunities.
We started the second half as though the game maybe over. We let the opposition take too much control and they were always looking dangerous when they broke.
We were now receiving a few free kicks, as the opposition continued to foul. From one of these, Gazza took a quick tap to Steve, who ran the ball past the defender and beat the keeper - 3-1.
Well, this also stirred them up. They did not like the quick free kick being taken.
Although 3-1 up, the game was still a hectic one. They increased some of their foul play, which led to one of our players receiving an "accidental" stomp on his knee. Although this was unseen by the Ref, it was not missed by players and supporters watching the game.
As the game progressed, they became difficult to hold as the continued to attack and we had trouble holding our position in the weather. Yes it happened, they drew level, 3-all and approx 15 minutes to go.
What happened next was intriguing. We had a throw-in which Fozzie took. He delivered this into the 18 yard box and then the ref blew for a Penalty.... I later found out he awarded this for an elbow into the back of Gazza. This sent the All Stars Players into a note of madness. They refused to accept the ref's decision and indicated they would not allow this to be taken and also looked to walk off. I went onto the pitch and tried to find out what was happening. They had surrounded the Ref who was sticking to his decision. I advised them thanks for the game as they appeared not to want to continue, as soon as they heard this they said no we are not giving the game up and the after a break of 5 or so minutes, we were able to take the penalty.
Steve Potter took the penalty, a long nervous wait had by all. Yes it went in via the goalies hand, however 4-3 and we were not going to let it slip again.
Final result 4-3 win and we move into the semi-finals.
This is the second time we have played this team with a similar result, by that I mean the incredulous calls of "cheats", insults to players and supporters and also "bagging" of the ref. This is not what football is about and hopefully the CSSL Committee will be able to take some action to stamp this out.
Player of the day - The Ref for putting up with the opposition.
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
21 Jun 2009: Dux 2 CSFC 2
Today we played an "old enemy" from previous years where the game was a tight affair. Today was also to follow that path.
The day started well however by 11-30 I had message flying around and at least 2 players out with injury.
The call went out and G responded by bring his playing gear to the game.
Well we put out a team and after 2 minutes were reared with a nice goal to Chris. A nicely played ball through and he used his pace to beat the keeper to the ball to place it nicely into the net.
We were playing okay however on the 20 min mark; we lost Tony G to his hamstring injury.
The game became disjointed and Dux started to put pressure on our defence. They held well and nullified chances that were being created. They then, with 1 minute left in the first half, got a breakaway to level the scores.
The second half was all about pressure. They initially attacked however for the majority of this half we pressured them pushing for another goal. This came around 70 minutes time. Chris scored his second with a nice drive past the keeper. We continued to gain a 3rd however were caught on the break. Dux crossed in the ball only for the clearance to be headed back into the goal, 2 all.
We remain 4 points clear however next week we play our nearest challenger, Glenbyre, at Bexley. I know we will all be looking forward to this clash.
Player of the day - Chris Friend.
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
14 Jun 2009: CSFC 3 Prebbleton 1
Today we played a team that has been improving each week. Last week they won 14-0, which showed that today's game would not be easy.
Right from the kick-off we played very well. This drew us a couple of corners within the first 2 minutes. From these we scored our first goal, when Fozzie drilled a corner to be met by Jeremy to power the header past the helpless keeper. This domination continued (without further success) for the next 15 - 20 minutes. During this time Prebbleton's attacks were well defended and the game pushed on, with us creating a few chances still without increasing our lead.
Time was nearly up for the first half. Prebbleton had spent the last 5 minutes on continual attack. We defended well as they had 3-4 corners in a row. From the last corner, we countered and Chris took the ball past their defence and sent a cross towards the goal. The keeper did a nice job of palming the ball into the net - 2-0 and half time.
Yes, we had just played a good first half and knew that they would not sit back in the 2nd half. This was to prove true, as they immediately put pressure on the defence from the kick off. 4 minutes into the half and they were back into the game with a goal - making it 2-1. We were not playing like the first half and this goal put the minds back into the game. We now started to get better control. The game went end-to-end without either team putting the ball into the net. We were creating the better chances and our defence held well.
Turning point of the game. Fozzie took a corner. This was cleared out of the 18 yard box. Ben Norris lobbed the ball back into the box and Steve Potter headed it past the defence for Fozzie to place the volley into the net. 3-1 and deserved.
From here we dominated the game to make sure they did not get back into it. After having a penalty claim let go, another presented itself later. Let's just say that the people on the deck were in danger, not the keeper.
Anyway, a great result that sees us back with a 6 point lead in the league after our nearest challenger drew.
Next week against Dux will be another tight encounter.
As always many thanks to the supporters that travel to each game.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
7 Jun 2009: Bolam Cup - Golden Mile 1 CSFC 4
We travelled out to Templeton Domain to start our race to the Bolam Cup final for this year. Winning this game will put the team into the quarter-finals in a few weeks.
Tony Green was out with an injury. We knew this would not be easy and that proved correct. We started well with the opposition looking at breaking fast at any time to put pressure on the backs. Just need to mention that the pitch would probably be the largest in Christchurch... it was huge.
After 9 minutes, we were 2 goals to the good with Gazza and Jeremy scoring. After 10 minutes, we were 2-1 up as the "ref" gave a very dubious penalty.
They then tried to put on more pressure by just booting the ball to the forwards and letting them try to attack. They did this well without success. On 38 minutes, a long throw by Fozzie was missed by everyone and Chris chased the ball to finish a superb goal from an acute angle. Half-time 3-1.
The second half was similar to the first, with Golden Mile trying to break and Coastal keeping control and driving for a 4th goal. This they did after about 83 minutes to secure the game 4-1.
A good game to get the winning feeling back, after the draw against Azzurri the previous week.
As always many thanks to the supporters that travel to each game.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
31 May 2009: Azzurri 3 CSFC 3
Well time to write again. Sorry for the late reports. However, priorities took over for the past few days.
Well this day we played Azzurri to start the second round of the season. This was a team that we thought would take points from others as the season progressed. How true this was, as we dropped 2 points with a 3-all draw.
It was not that they played us off the park… more that we did not perform as we know we can. In saying this, the team played right to the final whistle and were unlucky not to take all points.
Goals by Gazza, Jeremy and Pete secured the point.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
17 May 2009: CSFC 6 Zim 0
Today we played another new team to Div 1 and did not know how they would perform. The B team beat them the previous week; however Zim only had 8 players turn up.
We started rather rushed and this set the tempo for most of the first half. Zim put us under pressure whenever we had the ball and therefore we started to rush control and passing. Ten minutes into the game and Ben McNabb was brought down in a nasty tackle, after the ball had been played, and the Ref sent their player off.
Having a player sent off can make the remaining players step up and this they did. They pressured all over the park and always looked to break as they kept 4 attacking players in our defence.
We created numerous chances only to be foiled by some good saves, some poor option taking and some bad bounces on the pitch. We gained the first goal after 37 minutes when the ball fell to Steve Potter who danced around a player to slot it into the net with his left foot.
1-nil at half time and although we created many chances, we were not happy with the way we went.
The second half was a good change around. For the first 10 minutes it was much like the first half, however we played some delightful football to score our second goal. This opened Zim up and we then had total control. We did have some defensive work to do, and this was well dealt with. John in goal had not much to do in the second half as our players kept driving for more goals. This they did with the final score being 6-nil.
Goal Scorers
2 - Steve Potter and Gary Joynson
1 - Tony Green and Jeremy Friend
A good result that has put this team 6 points clear in Div 1. We now look forward to next week's game against the Bs at Bexley.
Player of the day - Tony Green
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
10 May 2009: CSFC v All Stars
Firstly - many thanks to Sunday Players/personnel that assisted with the Futsal weekend. A success all round.
Time to start again after missing last week's cup games due to a bye in the first round.
This is a new team to Div 1 and we were not sure what they would be like. They played well in the CCC Ethnic Tournament earlier this year and therefore were looking at another tight game.
The weather conditions did not help too much, however the pitch was in a good condition.
We started well and gained an advantage when Gary put the ball away early in the game. This was followed by some "wet weather" football where trying to control ball was difficult. We tried to play attacking football, which allowed the opposition opportunities for quick breaks. This they did and they took an opportunity to level the game at 1-all. A drive at goal "slipped" under John in goal.
1-all at half time and we were "in" the game, however needed to take control of the pace and possession.
The second half started and was played similar to the first half. Again they took an opportunity to take the lead. 2-1 down, 30 minutes left.
We did not sit back and took the game again to them. This allowed us to get level, when Steve was clipped in the penalty area. He scored from the resulting penalty making it 2-all.
We now were making opportunities and needed to make sure the defence held well. This they did and this then allowed our own breaks to which we secured the 3 points.
We broke wide to the right, when the ball was drilled across the 6 yard box for Peter Evans to beat all to the ball to put us 3-2 ahead.
A few minutes later, Gazza scored his second when he completely confused their defence when he brought down Alex's cross, turned and drilled the ball into the net. 4-2 and the game was ours.
A great thanks goes to Graham Cox for reffing the game today. The opposition said they did not have anyone to do it. As I advised their official, that if this was to occur then both teams abide by his decisions and leave him alone. Although the first half wasn't too bad, the second half words were not that of a sporting team. Graham handled this extremely well - the team appreciated this.
We will not dwell on their comments, just take the points and look forward to next week.
Person of the day - Graham Cox
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
26 April 2009: Glenbyre 0 CSFC 1
Another week, another old foe to face in round 4. Glenbyre have always been a tough opponent and today will be no different.
The wind caused both teams problems during the game. We started playing into the wind and played some good quality football during the first half. We defended well to absorb their direct approach and also attacked with with some good footballing skills.
This led to the only goal of the game after 36 minutes, by Gazza.
The second half was not so good, footballing-wise, however we grafted well and helped each other through this game making sure we did not concede a goal.
Yes, another good performance by all players involved today.
Next week we have a bye for the first round of the Bolam Cup.
Player of the day - Chris Friend
Sunday teams:
- CS Rovers A - 1-0 v Glenbyre
- CS Rovers B - 0-4 v Prebbleton
- CS Rovers C - 5-3 v Squires B
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
19 April 2009: CSFC 5 Dux de Lux 1
Playing against an old foe is always going to be difficult. Dux have always given us a hard game and we expected the same today.
We started well, with Gazza scoring after 2 minutes. This was followed up 18 minutes later when he scored his 2nd. The keeper chased a ball outside the 18-yard box, only to be foiled by Gazza - who got control of the ball and then drove the ball goal-wards, only to be helped on its way by a diving defender.
We dominated the first half, with Dux looking at fast breaks which we dealt well with.
Half-time: 2-0
3 minutes into the second half, and a well-taken corner by Peter Evans was "met" by Ben McNabb to have the ball bounce into the back of the net.
Again Dux looked for breaks and again we dealt with them. We again had control of the game and, on 61 minutes, Peter Evans finished another by slotting the ball into the net.
Gazza completed his hat-trick on the 80th minute when he rounded the defence and placed the ball away.
Yes, a good performance by all players involved today.
Next week we meet Glenbyre at Cuthberts Green and as always this should be a tight affair.
Player of the day - Steve Potter
Sunday teams:
- CS Rovers A - 5-1 v Dux de Lux
- CS Rovers B - 2-8 v All Stars
- CS Rovers C - 4-2 v Ligers
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
12 April 2009: Prebbleton 0 CSFC 4
Easter time and people being away made for what could have been a very interesting day putting out a team.
Not a good weekend for the coach, as he sent an incorrect pitch message to a player after we were changed from Lincoln to Warren Park… humblest apologies for this.
In the first half, we played our best football of the game. We kept control, stopped their quick breaks and delivered some telling passes to create numerous opportunities.
We scored 2 goals during the first half, both to Gazza.
Half time and we were to have the wind at our backs in the 2nd half so needed to take tighter control and move the ball to foot and keep it on the ground. As I said, we played our best football in the first half, however the second half was the reverse.
Although we increased our lead by another 2 goals, we were also putting ourselves under pressure by little mistakes that grew into bigger ones. The work was being done but we lost our way.
As I said, we scored another 2 goals, 1 to Chris and another to Ben McNabb. John stopped a couple of shots and the game was over.
Frustration got the better of the coach, who was not assisting the team as usual, so to the team my apologies.
Next week we meet Dux de Lux at Bexley and as always this should be a tight affair.
Player of the day - Ben Norris
Sunday teams:
- CS Rovers A - 4-0 v Prebbleton
- CS Rovers B - 3-7 v Azzurri
- CS Rovers C - v Ilam Hardies - still awaiting score
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
5 April 2009: CSFC 4 Azzurri 0
Yes it is football season time.
Most of last year's team has returned again and also now include Tony Green, Pete Evans and Alan Walker.
Today's opposing side caused us heartache last year when we went down 6-3. Today we did not want any repeat of that.
Tony Green was out with injured foot and Craig Gault started after a dose of the flu this week.
The team did well and almost straight away was creating chances. It was on 36 min when Gazza had the ball into the net and we were on our way. Good build up and nice work by Peter Evans got the ball to Gazza who calmly slotted it away.
Azzurri had their share of possession however this was well managed by the team with Ben Norris standing out with incise interceptions.
Half time, 1-0.
We dominated the half with Azzurri looking for "quick" breaks however again nice work by the defence and John in goal stopped all threats.
The second half went well and we scored 3 more goals to Jeremy Friend, Ben McNabb and Steve Potter.
- Jeremy fired a right footer into the corner although it took a slight deflection on the way
- Ben put a well placed header into the top corner from a well-taken Brendon Foster free kick
- Steve followed-up on a breakaway to drive the ball into the net from an acute angle.
That was it, a good start to the season.
Player of the day - Gary Joynson
Sunday teams:
- CS Rovers A - 4-0 v Azzurri
- CS Rovers B - 1-2 v Glenbyre
- CS Rovers C - 7-3 v Cardrona on Avon B
As always, many thanks again to the supporters as this is always appreciated by the team.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
2008 Season Review
This was to be my third year of coaching the Rovers A team. After completing the double in the previous 2 years, we were looking at possibly completing a treble of league and cup success.
Training commenced early February with the league to commence the first week past Easter.
We had the return of most of the previous year's squad and also some new faces that came to preseason. As with all teams that I have coached, the team squad would not be chosen until a couple of weeks prior to the season starting.
During the first couple of training sessions, we lost Graham Cox to a severe knee injury. We lost another new player, Andy, to a broken ankle. Tony Green decided it was time to retire from Sunday Football to advance his junior coaching credentials and we gained a couple of players from the home land, Mikey Campbell and Steve Potter. Stu had again taken the 'B' team and he also had a few new faces attending.
A difficult decision had to be made as the captaincy was vacant due to Tony's retirement. This left a huge gap and it took some time to decide on a replacement. After careful deliberations, Andy Anderson accepted the role as team captain for this year.
We had a couple of practice games and this led into our first game of the year against our old foe, Glenbyre at Bexley Reserve. A cautious start to the season with a 3-all draw. This was followed by a game against Dux. We turned this into a 2-1 victory and enjoyed reversing the result for last year at their ground.
The third game was against Prebbleton and had an easy 4-nil victory. It was at this time that due to a change at work, I could not commit to continuing as Coach for Rovers. Graham Cox stepped up and took over. Jeremy and Chris Friend transferred to the Rovers team to put the squad back to 15 players.
The 4th game of the year was to be a sour note on the season as Azzurri took the game 6-3. Enough has already been said about this game. We now had a week off due to Bolam Cup games and the next game was to be against the Rovers B team at Bexley.
The game came and went. The 'A's won 3-2 however the cost was loosing Craig Gault to a bad knee injury. The following week we completed round 1 with a good 7-3 victory against Japan.
Half way through the season, although only 6 games played, and we were top equal on points and second on goal difference. Timing at work had again changed that allowed myself to assist Graham with the team as we wanted to take them back to the top.
This was followed by our first game in the Bolam Cup against Sino Utd. This was an uneven game as we won 10-2 and put us through to the ¼ finals.
The next 2 weeks would be tough as games against Glenbyre and Dux were always fought to the end. We played Glenbyre at their new home ground and dominated the game to win 3-nil. Top of the league and ready to take on Dux the following week. We played Dux at Bexley and in a game of 2 halves, we were outplayed in the first half, however completely dominated the second and won the game 4-1. This may have been the season turning point as we started to play some brilliant football.
We now had our ¼ final game for the Bolam Cup. As per the game report, this is probably the best game we played this year without scoring the vital goal This allowed the opposition to sneak 1 goal and put us out… enough said.
We now had the league to play for and are top of the table. With games against the lower half of the league to play, it was in our hands to complete a 4th league title in a row.
The next 3 weeks we accounted for Prebbleton (5-0), Azzurri (7-1) and Avonhead (6-0). Other results went our way and with 3 games left we are 7 points clear at the top of the table. The next game was against the 'B's and a win would secure the title again.
A good day at Bexley with the 'C's game cancelled as their opposition defaulted. The Saturday PDL team had an early kick-off for a catch up game and this made for a full deck to watch the game.
The team played some quality football and completed the league title in winning the game 4-1. Celebrations had all round.
League Title completed with 2 games to go…
With the weather causing major disruptions and cancellations, we played our last game against Japan. This was a "let's have some fun" game and positioned decided by names out of a hat. No game plan, no instructions apart from go out and enjoy themselves. This they did by convincingly winning 7-0.
Another good year by the team, winning the league title for the 4th time in 4 years. It was disappointing that we were unable to complete the Treble Double of League and Cup, however that is what knock-out competitions are for.
Thanks goes to the loyal band of supporters who watched our games this year. Their vocals were greatly appreciated again this year and I know the team appreciated your attendance.
A special thanks to Graham Cox who took over the coaching duties when my work schedule would not allow coaching time. His continual drive to have the team succeed was invaluable.
Coastal Spirit Rovers had a good year with all teams winning silverware…
- Coastal Spirit Rovers A - CSSL Div 1 League Champions
- Coastal Spirit Rovers B - CSSL Trophy Knock Out Champions
- Coastal Spirit Rovers C - CSSL Div 5 League Champions
| Competition | Played | Won | Draw | Lost | For | Against | G Diff | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| League | 13 | 11 | 1 | 1 | 58 | 18 | +40 | 34 |
| Cup | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 10 | 3 | +7 | - |
Goalscorers
15 - Jeremy Friend and Gary Joynson
13 - Steve Potter
5 - Mark Williams
4 - Alex Moss, Mikey Campbell
3 - Craig Gault, Chris Friend
2 - Andy Anderson
1 - Brendon Foster, Jamie Stewart, Max Sykes, Own Goal
CS Rovers A Player Awards for 2008
- Player of the Year - Ben Norris
- Players' Player of the Year - Steve Potter
- Most Versatile - Brendon Foster
- Most Consistent - Andy Anderson
- Richard Cranium Award - Jeremy Friend
- Top Goalscorer - Gary Joynson and Jeremy Friend
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
7 September 2008: DDP Japan v CS Rovers A
This was a game that most were looking forward to as we were to pick team positions out of a hat. I arranged with the Ref that both teams would be able to use rolling subs and this was agreed to by Japan.
20 minutes from kick off and we only had 11 players, hoping now that Japan also only had 11 players.
Positions for today's team were made and John Walsh decided not to move to striker until later in the game as he did not want to show up the opposition's defence.
| Player | Normally | Today's Selection |
|---|---|---|
| John Walsh | Goalkeeper | Goalkeeper/Striker |
| Brendon Foster | Right Back | Left Back |
| Ben Norris | Centre Back | Sweeper |
| Andy Anderson | Sweeper | Striker |
| Max Sykes | Left Back | Centre Midfield |
| Chris Friends | Right Midfield | Right Midfield |
| Steve Potter | Centre Midfield | Striker |
| Jamie Stewart | Left Midfield | Centre Back |
| Gary Joynson | Striker | Right Back |
| Jeremy Friend | Striker | Centre Midfield |
| Hayden Paterson | Sub | Left Midfield |
Of the 11 players, 8 were at Alex Kelly's stag function that commenced at 10am Saturday and finished sometime Sunday morning and the other 3 had functions on Saturday evening also. Drink bottles were laid out down the sideline as they would become quite useful during the game.
With the positions sorted, it was team talk time to sort out strategies. When the coaches were asked for information, the players were shown the game plan. A blank sheet of paper as this was their game and they could sort it out as the game evolved.
The game commenced and as with all games, the players were full of energy and commitment. We dominated from the start and created quite a few chances without success. The change in positions did not seem to be too disruptive. Playing into a strong wind, the players knocked the ball around and if only to convert possession into goals. This occurred midway through the first half when Andy drilled a right footed volley into the net... well actually beat the keeper to the ball to tap it past him.
Japan tried to make some attacking runs only to be foiled by Jamie Stewart as he got his foot to the ball before they could strike at goal. One chance arrived for them only to be halted by John rising like a salmon, palming the ball away and landing like a rock on the hard playing surface… great save.
Gazza was making some powerful runs from right back as he went looking to increase the goal tally. Some of the runs you would not normally see from a Right Back. Jeremy was also looking to strike at any time with some well struck power shots only to lack direction.
In the remaining part of the first half, Gazza managed to sneak into the 18 yard box to steal a goal and Jeremy also added to the tally.
Half time and 3-nil lead. John in goal still not wanting to show up the opposition defence and remained in goal for the time being. Some water consumption taken and calls from the coaching staff to enjoy this game the lads returned to combat.
The night before appeared to be taking some sting out of the players however with 45 minutes to go, they rallied around to start the second half with the blazing wind at the backs.
Again Japan tried to make the play only to be deprived of any goal scoring opportunities by the defence.
John Walsh moved to striker with 18 minutes left. He was right not to do this for the whole game as the Japanese defenders would have had lots of trouble. John showed some great touches only to be foiled by the roll of the ball.
We played the majority of the game in their half and then started to complete some goal scoring opportunities.
- Brendon chipped the keeper from 35 yards.
- Steve slotted a tap in.
- Max headed in from a Jamie Stewart long throw.
- Chris swerved a corner directly into the goal.
This may well be the last game for the team this year, we still have one left however the opposition for that game defaulted today and if we do get the play the last one, they may well do this again.
Well done to the team for accepting the positions selected for and making the game enjoyable for the supporters to watch.
All the best to the following teams on their cup finals next Sunday.
- English Cup - Saturday Men's First Team - 2pm KO at English Park
- Reta Fitzpatrick Cup - Ladies First team - 11am KO at English Park
- CSSL Trophy - Sunday CS Rovers B team - 11am KO at Bexley Reserve.
Let's get out there and support the teams. Looking forward to seeing you all back at Bexley on Sunday to celebrate.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum
31 August 2008: CS Rovers A 4 CS Rovers B 1
Coastal Spirit Rovers A 2008 CHAMPIONS CSSL Div 1
Last week's victory led to the possibility of cementing the title for 2008 with 2 games to go. This was done by completing a 4-1 victory against the Rovers B team, who themselves have had a good first year in CSSL Div 1.
This year we have had a squad of 15 players and also the assistance from John McManus and Ben McNabb.
This year's squad was:
- John Walsh
- Brendon Foster
- Andy Anderson (Capt)
- Ben Norris
- Max Sykes
- Alex Kelly
- Chris Friend
- Craig Gault
- Mark Williams
- Steve Potter
- Jamie Stewart
- Alex Moss
- Gary Joynson
- Hayden Paterson
- Jeremy Friend
Today's game started well with a well-directed cross from Jamie Stewart to find the top corner of the goal after 1 min 19 seconds into the game.
Great start, however we were not able to complete various great attacking plays and this started us attempting too hard and not controlling the play. The B team also created a few chances and never stopped trying and were rewarded when we were caught in defence and put the ball past John Walsh to level at 1-all.
Half-time and it was time to reassess what we are doing. We knew what was required and had to be patient and continue to allow the ball to flow. Stop trying for glory balls and continue possession.
11 minutes into the second half and a drive into the box was deflected into the goal by Mark Williams.
32 minutes and Gary Joynson slotted away another to give a nice cushion and the title was part way to remaining at Bexley.
36 minutes and Jeremy Friend completed our goal-scoring by finishing a great cross.
Congratulations to the players for their commitment to the game this year. To complete a league title with 2 games remaining is brilliant.
Played 12, Won 10, Draw 1, Lost 1, For 51, Against 18, Points 31.
It was great to see the Deck at Bexley full again on what was a good day for the Sunday section of Coastal Spirit. We hope you all enjoyed the game and thank you for the support given to both teams.
We now look forward to the last part of the season especially with Sunday 14th September with 3 Coastal Spirit teams in the respective knock out finals:
- English Cup - Coastal Spirit v Nomads at English Park 2pm KO
- Reta Fitzpatrick Cup - Coastal Spirit Ladies v Avon at English Park 11am KO
- CSSL Trophy KO - Coastal Spirit Rovers B v Prebbleton - Venue to be confirmed.
Comment on team talks at the Coastal Spirit Forum