North Cheltenham Churches Football Team 2011-2012

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Game 13 : League Match : 17 December 2011:
Tewkesbury 2 – 3 North Cheltenham Churches

NCC kicked off their last match before Christmas on a cold and bright morning, but looking straight into the low angle of the winter sun. A novel experience for both teams was the playing of this game on the new astroturf pitch, opened at the beginning of the season. Surrounded by the high fencing it was reminiscent of a gladiatorial contest! In the initial minutes both sides tested the surface as they created early attacks, but these were cleared with relative ease. Then, after just three minutes, Rob Green limped off, and NCC had to play the remainder of the game with ten men, as the team had been unable to find any substitutes. Two minutes later Lee Bradley led a run down the left wing, and sent the ball towards Andrew Murton. He continued the run before firing a low volley from an oblique angle, which entered the net with a gratifying thud.

New boy Phil Collins made a great effort as he denied a persistent Tiger in front of the NCC goal. Following a Tewkesbury corner NCC delivered the ball down their right wing. On this fast surface Andrew Murton gave chase, and controlled the ball with great skill. Having eluded two defenders he sent it towards the keeper, who could only make a partial parry, and the ball ballooned over his prostrated body, to descend into the net. Although the result was a little fortuitous the NCC was playing with great commitment; evident by the ten-man team being two up after just ten minutes!

These goals seemed to spark the home team into making use of their extra man. They chased down both wings and rained some long-range attempts towards the NCC goal. One was well caught by Ryan Adams as he stretched to pluck the ball from the air; moments later this save was repeated. After further action from the visitors the Tigers were again on the prowl, and a determined effort saw the parried ball rise over Ryan Adams and descend into the net, and so allow the Tigers hunt to be successful as they pulled a goal back; the game had been going for just seventeen minutes.

All, including Stephen Murton, wait to see whether the ball goes out of play, and, who will have the throw on

Although no further goals were scored before half-time there was still plenty of action. The ball was moved rapidly from one end to the other, often travelling quicker than the players. This meant that the keepers had to be alert, and the home keeper was able to pounce on several long-range efforts before the advancing opposition arrived. Tewkesbury was awarded a free kick from just outside the box, but this was hit high and wide. Ten minutes before the interval a determined Tiger chase saw an equally determined NCC defence barring their approach. Despite this it took a great effort from an alert Ryan Adams to send the ball inches over the bar, and so concede a corner. At the other end the Tiger keeper took a very good catch from off the head of Andrew Murton, to save what could easily have been a goal. Soon after this NCC had a corner, which saw Martin Eccles head over the bar, and the hosts ended the half with yet another long-range shot.

The second half started at a great pace, with the Tigers making the initial running but the NCC matched them. In the third minute of the new half a good ball found Andrew Murton up on the left, where he sent in a long lethal diagonal strike, to complete the fourth hat trick of his NCC career; little wonder that he was named as man of the match.

Man of the Match Andrew Murton makes it 1-3 and completes the fourth hat trick of his NCC career

For much of the next twenty minutes NCC balanced their opposition in both attack and defence, with each side in pursuit of further success. Tewkesbury looked most dangerous when they chased down their left wing, and made optimum use of the wide open spaces. Then dangerous crosses appeared, but Ryan Adams, using the whole of his goal area, was able to deal with these effectively. The Tigers switched the chase to the right wing, and gained a corner, which Simon Trew headed out to safety. This sea-saw game saw Jon Craxford send in a long-range shot, which went wide of goal. Then the Tigers reverted to their left wing, and delivered a diagonal ball into the box. An alert prowling Tiger sent in a hard volley, which thudded into the opposite corner of the net, giving Ryan Adams little chance, and so setting up a thrilling final twenty-five minutes.

Gradually Tewkesbury were spending more time in the other half of the pitch, which gave the tiring NCC players some respite, in a strange sort of way. Their solid defence held firm, and the Tigers did not help themselves by getting off-side several times as they galloped over the level surface. The hosts tried more long-range attempts, and three narrowly missed their target, but their intense ten-minute pressure evaporated. In between these penetrating attacks NCC, mainly through their trio of James Stevens, Martin Eccles and Andrew Murton, kept probing the Tigers lair. Towards the end Simon Trew made a great solo effort, only to be denied when he was up-ended as he neared goal. Martin Eccles tried a long-range shot, which shaved the far post, and Andrew Murton saw his shot deflected, as he tried to beat both goalie and another defender. In the closing stages Tewkesbury had several more chances but good defending from the NCC decapods ensured their victory in this five-goal thriller. It was a fine effort from the team, their commitment saw each player give 110%.

Game 12 : League Match : 10 December 2011 :
North Cheltenham Churches 1 - 3 Cornerstone

On a cold and frosty morning NCC, in their changed strip of green and white hoops, kicked off this match against Cornerstone, a team which has won every league game this season. In the opening ten minutes the visitors created several chances but their shots were either fired wide or saved by Ryan Adams. They favoured coming down the left wing, or just off centre, but were kept at bay by the staunch actions of Adam Hitchman. The hosts created several attacks, through Mark Broekman and James Stevens, but were denied by an alert defence and good catching from the visiting keeper.

Once the frost had gone Cornerstone moved up a gear, and used the width of the field to full advantage. One run, this time down the right wing, forced Ryan Adams to make a spectacular parry, as he put his body firmly in front of the approaching ball. He must have been very relieved when, as the ball was returned, it went into the side netting. Play flowed at a good pace, and the NCC players were holding their own. Mark Broekman had a fine solo run down the right wing, but was quickly closed down by three defenders. Man of the match Simon Trew cleared one Cornerstone attack with a deft header, which let the Hoops take the attack up to the other end. Soon after this Adam Hitchman and Andy Murton saw off the most potent threat thus far. Then, after twenty-six minutes, the home side came up their left wing and won a corner. A delicate placement, from Jon Craxford, saw the ball sent towards Simon Trew. Expertly he speared the strong Cornerstone defence with a well-directed effort, which sped past the keeper and ended up in the far corner of the net; his first-ever goal for the team; well done Simon! Interestingly NCC has scored two of the three goals which Cornerstone had conceded in six league matches.

In the next twenty minutes the Cornerstone team increased their pressure, gained a corner and created several further chances, but the solid NCC defence held firm, and Ryan Adams made a couple of great saves. At the other end the keeper came out and took the ball high above James Stevens, as his attempted header was not high enough. Then, eight minutes before half time, the visitors were awarded a free kick, from the edge of the area. The ball was floated towards the centre where a Cornerstone player took route one, and performed an acrobatic overhead kick which saw the ball end up in the far corner of the net; all square, but a great disappointment to the home team. In the last few minutes the home side created further attacks, and had another corner, which was headed wide by Mark Broekman.

NCC spent much of the opening minutes of the new half on the defensive. Then Simon Trew led an attack through the middle, and gained a free kick from just outside the penalty area. Andrew Murton took the kick, and sent it past the four-man wall, but straight into the arms of the waiting keeper, who had positioned his men to perfection. The visitors gained a corner, and then made a series of threatening passes near the corner flag before they were seen off. After fifty-six minutes Cornerstone had another attack, and sent over a high ball. This was missed by Ryan Adams, allowing an alert attacker to score an easy goal, and so propel his team into the lead.

Andy Murton takes a free kick, with all the gaps covered he misses the wall of 4 but the goalie is ready

At once the Hoops were up at the other end, but their shot was saved by the keeper, who finished on his knees. A Cornerstone forward pierced the home defence, and, as the ball fell nicely for him, his attempt erred off course. Another solo run saw James Stevens speed through, but without any support he was closed down by half a dozen rampant defenders. NCC increased their pressure, and spent much of the following five minutes near the opposition goal. Then they had an attack down the left wing, and gained a throw-on. This resulting throw led to the award of a penalty, following a push on Martin Eccles. Andrew Murton stepped up for the kick, which was well pushed out by the keeper as he dived to his left, but unfortunately the rebound was sent over the bar. This event proved to be debilitating for the home team, who were unable to capitalise on two separate bookings imposed on Cornerstone. NCC had another attack seen off by the keeper, before disaster struck again.

NCC defending a corner. Martin Eccles jumps up, behind No. 29, Man of the Match, Simon Trew

Within minutes of the penalty-miss Cornerstone had an attack which left the hosts standing. A cross found an unmarked player, in acres of space, who whacked the ball past the keeper, and put the game out of reach of the NCC. In the last twenty minutes the visiting side created a series of chances, and won a brace of corners and free kicks. They were denied by a combination of good goal-keeping, shots off target and an alert home defence, which saw, for example, Simon Trew win the ball in front of a quick forward. NCC created a few chances but these were saved or sent wide. In the end the better organised side won the game, but it is to be hoped that their opposition gained from the experience.

Game 11 : Plate Match : 3 December 2011 :
St Andrews 1 - 2 North Cheltenham Churches

Saturday arrived with beautiful warm sunshine, despite a chilly wind. St Andrews kicked off this plate match, at Plock Court, the spacious location of their new home ground. Despite fielding a scratch team the NCC players produced a commendable performance throughout the game, with an unexpected result to endorse their determination, and to maintain the magic of one-off fixtures.

Following the home side’s initial run it was NCC who had the first period of dominance, when they spent several minutes deep inside their opponent’s territory. Here they gained a free kick, from just outside the box. Unfortunately the curling effort, taken by Jon Craxford, dipped the wrong side of the bar. Then St Andrews applied a period of pressure as they came up the wings. Defender, and man of the match Martin Cookson, put the ball behind for a corner; Jon Craxford also tidied up and Ryan Adams caught the ball from a straight drive. Some penetrating NCC runs saw the home keeper kept busy as he gathered one ball from just outside the post and pushed away another, following a diving save. Then St Andrews made their most threatening foray of the half. Well inside NCC territory they crossed the ball repeatedly, before the shot was well held by Ryan Adams. With the first quarter gone the visitors were playing very well, and having a slight edge following their greater fortitude in attack and better resolve in defence.

NCC continued to worry their opponents, which saw several attempts go wide and James Stevens being denied in front of goal. After a brief run from the hosts the visitors were up again, creating further pressure on St Andrews. Both Emiliano Cipriani and Tom Burgess had half-chances before NCC saw off another persistent attack. As the end of the half neared it was NCC again making the running. This resulted in a goal mouth melee with near misses from both James Stevens and Tom Burgess. As the half ended, goal-less, with NCC well in charge, there was still everything to play for after the resumption.

At the start of the second half NCC begin an attack from deep inside their own half

The second half got off to a dream-start. Having taken centre NCC found they were defending from well inside their own half. They conceded a free-kick which Ryan Adams coolly pouched, before returning the ball back up the field of play. Here NCC, through Tom Burgess, dribbled the ball up the left wing. Approaching the 18 yard box he passed to his right, where Andy Macauly continued this run. Outsmarting one defender Andy continued goalwards. As he approached the right-hand post he sent over a diagonal shot. This sped towards the far post, as five defenders rushed back. Chaos seemed to reign as the goalie dived, and missed the ball, but an alert James Stevens did not. His final tap was more than enough to guide the ball into the net, for the Reds to be in front after just five minutes of the half.

A diagonal cross from Andy Macauly is missed by the goalie and alert James Stevens taps it in : 0 - 1

For much of the next quarter of an hour NCC took the attack to the opposition, where the opposing keeper made a series of fine saves. Initially he ran out to grab the ball, later he grasped another save to his chest as he lay on the ground, with a defender shielding the ball from the encroaches of Andy Macauly. In another moment he caught a drive and later booted the approaching ball back down the field. Amongst all of this excitement James Stevens saw his chip cannon off the crossbar, and Andrew Murton sent a shot straight into the arms of the keeper; it was all exciting stuff. Ryan Adams had his patch invaded twice during this period of intense activity at the other end, albeit briefly; at least he was made to work to prevent St Andrews achieving any success.

Time was passing too quickly for the hosts, and their attacks increased in both frequency and determination. They won two successive free kicks, but the visitors were defending well, matching the opposition man for man. The nearest St Andrews came to a strike saw an attempt almost graze the bar as it sped over an unguarded part of the goal. Another chance came from the second of successive corners, which saw the ball go by the far post, with the forward unable to get a touch. For much of the next fifteen minutes it was St Andrews in charge, although NCC had two shots well saved by the home keeper.

With some ten minutes to go NCC mounted a series of threatening attacks. Following a corner a shot sailed over the bar, and another attack saw Andrew Murton shoot wide. Then a combination of a poor goal kick, and an alert Andrew Murton, saw him intercept the punt and volley it back past the keeper; NCC were two up with ten minutes remaining!

It was difficult to see how the home side could increase their pressure, but they did. Within a minute they sent a well struck final ball past a static Ryan Adams, and enter the bottom corner of the net. What an intense closing period awaited both teams in this cup game. From the restart NCC went on the attack, bringing out two great parries from the home keeper; the second saw him jump to concede a corner as he pushed the ball behind. The final minutes saw the home side come down both wings, as they bombarded the NCC defence, but the gallant defenders saw them off. Following a final Red attack the match ended, with NCC winning a game in which they were dominant for long periods; well done to the whole team!

Game 10 : League Match : 26 November 2011:
Cheltenham Trinity 4 - 1 North Cheltenham Churches

On a cold and incredibly dull day NCC kicked off, with the advantage of an extremely strong and gusty wind. During this opening phase play flowed up and down the pitch, and Ryan Adams was soon in action as he made the initial save, a tame volley which was pouched with apparent ease. Cheltenham Trinity had their moments; one saw them gain two corners in quick succession, and another brought a good diving save from the visiting keeper. Although NCC became the dominant side they failed to capitalise upon this early momentum, which would have a great bearing upon the result. They spent the majority of this period in their opponent’s half, especially in their left hand corner. From this base Jon Craxford sent a shot over the bar, other shots went by the goal post, one missing it by the width of the ball, or they were saved by Jay Jackson, as he honed his goal-keeping skills. After twenty minutes NCC again came up their left wing, and sent over a cross. This was caught by the keeper as Karl Hemming ran in, unmarked. A few minutes later déjà vu, a delicate chip was flighted goalwards by Jon Craxford. Passing over the head of the keeper, and missed by the solitary defender, it was left to the alert Karl Hemming to side-foot the ball. With immense delight he watched the futile efforts of a valiant defender, who, like the ball, ended up in the net. Well done to Karl, who scored his first-ever goal for the team!

NCC continued to apply their relentless pressure; even having ten players in their opponents’ half. Andy Murton saw his diagonal shot rebound off the post, and bounce back into play. By now Trinity had tightened up their game, and made several threatening runs down their left wing; one, following a good cross, was only denied by some intrepid defending by man of the match Jon Craxford. The hosts missed two great chances where many would consider it harder not to score. The Cheltenham Trinity keeper made a great diving save to grab the ball inches from the line after his defender had missed the cross. Later he sprawled to his right to push the ball away from a Martin Eccles header. As the period ended NCC would rue their missed opportunities and the spurning of the help from the strong wind in a half which they dominated.

From the restart play began at a furious pace, with alternate forays at each end. NCC created a brace of opportunities, through Martin Cookson and Andy Murton, but both were denied by expert keeping and good defensive work. At the other end Trinity saw their chances go wide. Then they gained a corner, which was sent to the back of the box. Not cleared it fell kindly to the Trinity number five, who fired a speculative long-range volley, which hit the back of the net. All square within five minutes of the restart, game on! For most of the next ten minutes it was Trinity who made the running. NCC had a moment of dominance when Martin Cookson led an attack, and gained a corner. A high ball was delivered, which was sent up field, where the hosts now spent much time in their top-right hand corner. As the ball crossed the goal-area another low volley was struck, and again the ball sped into the back of the NCC net; two hammer blows well taken by Cheltenham Trinity, who appeared to have done their half-time homework.

NCC are attacking, with Andy Murton in control watched eagerly by Emlyn John

Now we had an end to end game, in spite of the conditions. Trinity had a series of outings, which caused little trouble; more threatening were those from their visitors. Following a corner Peter Vaughan-Shaw had a great chance with a header, and Simon Trew had his shot blocked, before the ball was sent behind for an unsuccessful corner. The home side continued to create chances, which saw the ball speed past an empty goal, and from another shot it rebounded off a post. After more concentrated NCC pressure, which saw them gain a corner, it was Trinity who scored next.

The linesman has his flag up before the ball enters the net, so NCC failed to gain a goal!

Following an attack, which saw Ryan Adams dive to parry the shot, the ball ballooned up, before ending in the net. From the restart NCC gained a corner, only to see their hopes of a goal dashed as the linesman had his red flag up. As the sun came out it shone on a dominating Cheltenham Trinity; while they denied NCC at every opportunity they grew in stature, as, first, they hit the crossbar, and then piled the cream on their cake with another well-struck goal deep into time added on. It was a humbling experience for the NCC, and a flattering score line for their hosts, but credit to Trinity for seizing their chances and adapting better to the difficult conditions.

Game 09 : League Match : 12 November 2011:
North Cheltenham Churches 0 - 1 Cambray

On an overcast but spring-like day Cambray, the visitors, started this game with several attacks, all down their right wing. One of these movements resulted in a corner, which was headed wide. Then Cambray, the reigning league champions, had two free kicks; one caused Ryan Adams to pull off a save from off the nose of an attacking forward. In between Mark Broekman found himself in a good position from his solo effort, and later Ian Jones lifted his shot over the advancing keeper but it continued over the bar. Then, after twelve minutes, the visitors had the ball in the net, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Cambray continued to create attacks but were constantly denied by a dogged home defence. When they broke through this defence Ryan Adams came out to deny them success. The champions gained a corner on their right; a low ball was sent over but the shot rebounded off the post with a resounding thwack, the first of the four times that the visitors hit the woodwork! At the other end Ian Jones was prevented from finishing his cross, with Mark Broekman waiting in plenty of space. Two further forays in quick succession were also denied before the hosts were again on the rampage. The game was quite evenly matched despite the visitors more threatening attacks.

Then, approaching the twenty sixth minute, the visitors had two successive corners, both from the left. A high ball was missed by all, except Nathan Kiyaga, who nodded it past the outstretched arms of the keeper, to score the only goal of the match, enabling Cambray to maintain their undefeated start to the season. Cambray used both wings to great advantage, but were unable to apply the finishing touches. Most play occurred in mid-field, and the game of attrition was punctuated by goal-runs at each end. One saw Ryan Adams grab the ball as he lay sprawled on the grass; the hosts were the busier team in defence, but survived further catastrophe as half-time came.

The second half saw a more determined effort from NCC, and the game developed into one full of excitement, especially as a single goal was the difference in the score. Martin Eccles was denied when his individual effort was closed down by seven players as he attempted a diving header. When the Blues continued their attack the ball was well saved by man of the match Ryan Adams. Soon after he pushed the ball out of the goal-area and almost immediately made a wonderful save as he knocked the ball up, and over, the crossbar. Cambray were awarded a few kick from the edge of the box, but this was driven high, wide and erroneously off target.

Another attack led Cambray to win a corner, which saw the ball bounce off the top of the bar. With their two-man attack, sometimes three, NCC made things difficult as this shortage of manpower enabled Cambray to stem the flow with relative ease. It was asking rather a lot against a team of this quality! On their outings Cambray had a minimum of four up front, and posed problems for the mass of Reds, at times nine men in defence. On the hour Peter Vaughan-Shaw led a promising charge, but was forced to veer away from the target and the opportunity was gone. Shortly after this James Stevens missed what must have been NCC’s best chance. The team was showing a tremendous fighting spirit, and could be deemed to be unfortunate not to score. However, Cambray would respond with their many missed opportunities; more were to come in the last quarter.

Jon Craxford wins a tussle with a Cambray player,
watched by James Stevens (behind), Martin Eccles and Ian Jones

As the final five minutes came Cambray increased their pressure, forcing more outstanding saves from Ryan Adams, and again hitting the woodwork. With a couple of minutes remaining they were awarded a penalty, but this was sent wide of the left post, summing up the game for Cambray, but not to take anything away from NCC’s battling performance in the match.

Game 09 : League Match : 12 November 2011:
North Cheltenham Churches 0 - 1 Cambray

Jon Craxford wins a tussle with a Cambray player,
watched by James Stevens (behind), Martin Eccles and Ian Jones

Game 07 : League Match : 29 October 2011 :
North Cheltenham Churches 1 - 6 Trinity & Quedgeley

On a windy but sunny day NCC kicked off this match, and the opening ten minutes were played at a fast pace. Initially the hosts enjoyed more possession but then the visitors announced their presence. On ten minutes they came up their right wing, and gained a throw-on. The ball was flicked on by an attacking player, and sped towards the edge of the six-yard box, where a volley pierced a packed goal area, to open the scoring. Almost immediately T&Q came up their left wing, outstripping the defence and sent in another shot, but Ryan Adams was able to save this, by his near post. Then NCC came down their right wing and delivered a cross towards the consistent Ian Jones. Unfortunately his jump did not coincide with that of the ball, and the shot was sent wide.

In the next fifteen minutes play flowed the length of the pitch, with attacking positions at each end. NCC was devoid of players up front, and another Ian Jones effort, which saw him beat a trio of defenders, came to naught. The visitors attacked in greater numbers but some determined defending, notably from Adam Cox, kept them out. Then, after twenty-four minutes, a good pass from Ian Jones found Guy Speedie. His run, outstripping three defenders, saw him arrive in front of the goal. Despite the efforts of the last man, and the keeper, he was able to prod the ball into the net; all square; game on! For the next ten minutes most of the play centred on the middle of the field, although there were attacks at both ends. Those from T&Q posed the greater threat, especially two successive corners which NCC eventually cleared with their nine man defence unit.

Then, in the closing ten minutes of this opening half, it began to go wrong. First a home defender passed the ball back to his keeper, but somehow it continued to roll, beneath the foot of Ryan Adams, before ending in the back of the net; a gift to T&Q. This goal seemed to lift the visitors who nearly scored from a shot which Ryan Adams held well above his head, and another which sped across the goalmouth. NCC’s goal was under siege, but Ryan made two more saves and the ball was cleared more than once by man of the match Adam Hitchman. In the final minute of the half Trinity and Quedgeley created several further chances, one saw the ball clear the bar for a corner. Although this was cleared a T&Q forward, on the left, was able to drive a fierce shot into the net. Following an NCC attack, which was cleared, the leaders gained another corner, which was sent behind, to bring the half to a close.

In the second half the hosts held their own against the opposition, until the final five minutes of the game. T&Q made the initial forays of the new half, but soon it was the turn of their hosts, beginning with an Emlyn John free kick, and continuing with a save by the T&Q keeper, which saw him end up on the ground and the ball graze the bar. Then the keeper made a fantastic reflex save from an Ian Jones volley, almost at point-blank range, a real top-drawer effort. This could be considered the turning point in the game, as the NCC was mounting a series of dangerous runs. In the next fifteen minutes both teams made half a dozen attacks. The Reds had a good chance to score from another Emlyn John free kick, which the keeper saved with his feet, before his defence tidied up, and then he saw a shot cross his bar. NCC held their own with ease when the visitors won three successive corners.

The game appeared to be slowing, and perhaps many were waiting for the end of the match; then came those final five disastrous minutes, which saw the visitors grab three quick goals, to endorse their better play throughout the game and bury NCC’s moments of glory. The first goal saw a lone forward run through the home defence before tapping the ball into the corner. Following three further attacks T&Q came down their right wing, and, as the end of normal time approached, a cross found two players, totally unmarked, waiting by the far post. One was able to score with complete ease, despite any suggestion of off-side. Then, into time added-on, this move was repeated, and another high cross came over. Although NCC now had two defenders they were unable to prevent another goal from being headed home, to rub salt into the team’s wounds.

Game 06 : League Match : 22 October 2011 :
North Cheltenham Churches 5 - 0 C3 Dons

On a sunny but cold autumnal day NCC played C3 Dons, another team in their first league season. In the opening minutes the new boys played well and created several threatening movements but the NCC defence denied them. In these attacks one shot went high over the goal line, and, from another, Ryan Adams pushed the ball behind for corner, which was easily cleared. Then, in the tenth minute, NCC came up their left wing, where the ball eventually fell to Emlyn John. His long range shot saw the ball travel across the pitch, and enter the far side of the net. This goal, against the current wooden-spoonists, gave NCC the cushion against any possible upset, and they began to play with increased confidence, and created further chances. From one of these a shot, made by man of the match Peter Vaughan-Shaw, cannoned off the woodwork, but the rebound was hit wide. The opposition’s lack of experience was visible when their free kick was hit straight at the goal keeper, something Emlyn John was to repeat with his later free kick.

In the next fifteen minutes NCC created many chances to increase their lead but the visiting goalkeeper made several good saves, and denied the efforts of both Ian Jones and James Stevens. Frequently these attacks were punctuated by the visitors speeding down the field of play. Although their forays appeared threatening they lacked the punch often exhibited in a youthful side. At the other end the tall and athletic keeper kept the Dons in the game with a series of saves, including a spectacular one where he jumped to push a shot from Ian Jones over the bar. As the final minutes of the half approached NCC created several powerful runs, from Jon Craxford and notably James Stevens, whose shot sped across the goal mouth and narrowly missed the far post. This pressure finally paid off when a good ball found Ian Jones, waiting inside the box. As the defence had come out too far he took the great opportunity to send the ball past the advancing keeper, to double his team’s lead. As the half was about to end Ian Jones, surrounded by four defenders, was able to pass the ball to his left, towards Alex Petitcolin. With a well-executed movement his left boot dispatched the ball goal-wards, and he saw it squeeze between the keeper and his right-hand post.

At the start of the second half each side had a series of attacks, as play alternated up and down the field. The Dons were living dangerously as their hosts created three or four quick runs on their goal. Approaching the hour mark Karl Hemming, just on as a substitute, sent the ball to Peter Vaughan-Shaw, waiting on the right wing. His high ball passed above the outstretched arm of the keeper as he jumped, before descending to the ground. There the ball bounced vertically, right in front of Ian Jones, who had the simplest of tasks to nod it into the empty net. Following further NCC pressure we now saw the best action from the Dons. Undaunted, they took the fight to the other end, and made several chances. Perhaps their closest opportunity came from a corner, where Ryan Adams, who had the ball well-covered, saved at his near-post despite the threat of three attacking players.

Another solo effort from Ian Jones, 1 against 5 + keeper is impossible odds!

Although NCC was never in overdrive they relaxed more and more, and were content to coast towards the finishing line. The visitors had a near miss when a shot sped past the post, and they wasted a twice-taken free kick, from the edge of the box. With two minutes remaining NCC came down the left wing, and a melee occurred in front of the goal. Here the ball bounced around, as initially it was missed by all, including the keeper who could only parry it. Then, as it came back to the left, Jon Craxford was there, to stroke the ball between the players, and score his first-ever goal for the team. The match ended with the Dons having successive corners, where, in their determination, all players were up, including their keeper. Although it was not a polished NCC performance the result was a good morale-boosting win, and ended a dismal run of narrow defeats.

In the final kicks of the match the Dons take the first of two consecutive corners

Game 05 : League Match : 15 October 2011 :
Cornerstone 5 - 1 North Cheltenham Churches

On a sunny autumnal morning NCC kicked off this match at Evesham, sporting their original green and white strip, and facing the low angle of the bright sun. Play rotated up and down the field in the opening minutes of the match, with most of the action taking place on the far side to me. Each team was awarded a free kick; that from the NCC was taken by Andrew Murton, but Ian Jones was unable to tap in the ball as it was fumbled by the Cornerstone keeper. Almost immediately the hosts were awarded a free kick on their left wing. The ball was floated towards the far post, where an unmarked player was able to stab it home; after just eight minutes the visitors were behind. Cornerstone increased their pressure with a series of penetrating runs, mainly up their right wing. Initially the NCC defence, although severely tested, was able to hold their line. NCC managed some attacks, but these lacked numbers, and thus were closed down quickly, although James Stevens had one close movement before he was denied. On twenty-four minutes, and following a couple of NCC attacks, Cornerstone mounted another determined run, up their left wing. A low shot, bobbling off the hard ground, deceived Tim Rudge, and sped by, goalwards.

The rampant forwards of Cornerstone continued to run rings around the stretched NCC defence, where man of the match Martin Cookson was exemplary in his determination and success in keeping the opposition at bay. The hosts won a series of corners, and continued to advance up on both fronts, and in numbers. Just after the half-hour mark they came up their right wing. Unable to pass the NCC defence the ball was lobbed, and sped over the head of the advancing keeper, and into the net. Shortly after this goal NCC gained a corner. This was cleared by the daring keeper, as he punched the ball off the head of Guy Speedie, rising in an attempt to head home. Then Guy Speedie had a promising solo run before he was closed down by the well-positioned home defence. Just before half time a lone attacker came up the left wing, and, despite the best efforts of Martin Cookson, the only NCC player around, was able to shoot the ball past Tim Rudge, as help arrived too late. In the closing stages the visitors had a promising attack, down the right wing, before it was cleared.

Cornerstone keeper clears the ball, punching it from above the head of Guy Speedie

Although Cornerstone kicked-off the second half it was NCC, looking a different side, who made the running, especially during the third quarter which they totally dominated. The mid-field players showed their presence up front, and tested the home defence on several occasions. As the hour mark approached James Stevens, on the right wing, sent over a high cross. This was met by Ian Jones, who manoeuvred like a magician. In one decisive movement, which probably would score nil points in the Olympics, he leapt up beyond a home defender, and got his head to the ball. The Cornerstone keeper, sandwiched between his two defenders, could only watch in utter amazement as the ball sailed serenely over their heads, and continued into the back of the net, to score his first goal of the season. Soon after this Ian Jones led another attack up the left wing. His pass found James Stevens, waiting across the goal from the keeper, but his snatched header went over the bar. NCC kept up their attacks, and a snap-shot from Adam Cox was fired over. Although Cornerstone created a few attacks they were denied by a more efficient NCC defence, which seemed to have both time and numbers, and by Tim Rudge, who made two good saves, including one at his near post, which was pushed behind for a corner.

As the final quarter began the hosts had a shot which rose tantalisingly over the bar. They came back into the game a little more, not enough to control it but enough to ensure parity. To some extent NCC encouraged this as their attacks became solo efforts. Andrew Murton made a sprawling slide to save one Cornerstone attack, and at the other end Ian Jones also ended up on the turf after his effort was denied by the keeper. Ian, now finding his rhythm, was showing the team how much he has been missed this season. With seven minutes remaining Cornerstone brought the ball down their left wing, for once out-stripping the NCC defence. Despite the efforts of Tim Rudge, and Andy Murton, who both found themselves on the ground, the ball rolled into the net, to conclude the scoring. Thereafter play continued apace, with each side alternately making and defending attacks. During these final frenetic minutes NCC gained two corners. They could be pleased with their second half showing, but suffered defeat following a below-par performance in the first quarter.

Game 04 : League Match : 8 October 2011 :
Trinity & Quedgeley 4 - 3 North Cheltenham Churches

On an overcast day, with the sun tantalisingly threatening to break through, NCC kicked of this fixture, in their changed-kit of green and white hoops. The initial quarter of the match was woeful, and would eventually cost NCC the game. The hosts attacked forthwith, creating a series of early chances, and winning a corner, before the ball eventually ended up in the side netting. Then T&Q gained another corner; although this was partially cleared their early pressure paid off when an attacker gently rolled the ball past Ryan Adams, alone in his six-yard box. Thus, after five minutes, NCC was behind, and had yet to trouble the opposition defence. During the following ten minutes the team managed to create some attacks, notably through the efforts of Guy Speedie and Alex Petitcolin. In this period they won a corner, which Ian Jones just failed to head home. After a threat at the other end this trio created another great opportunity which saw the ball fly across an open goal. After seventeen minutes a good pass found a T&Q player who only had to guide the ball past Ryan Adams, to double his side’s lead. Within a minute Trinity and Quedgeley had an apparent goal ruled out, for offside. NCC gained a free kick, which was met by Ian Jones, who fired the ball over the bar. Then, on 23 minutes, the home side had a free kick, which was headed against the crossbar, before the ball was put out for a corner. From this the ball was crossed, before it was returned to go behind for another corner. This time a high ball descended into the goal area, packed with thirteen players, and somehow ended up in the net.

Man of the match, Alex Petitcolin, in action as NCC begin to build an attack whilst trailing 1-0 after 5 minutes

For the remainder of this half NCC came into the game more, in fact they had the greater share of play. It was noticeable that a few more of their players became involved in attacking movements. From one such movement an Ian Jones shot hit the post, and another action saw the ball pass wide of the goal. The NCC defence had tightened up, and ably dealt with yet another high corner. With ten minutes to go Karl Hemming, on the right wing, sent a perfect ball past two opposition players. It was controlled by Ian Jones, who slipped it left, past another brace of players, towards Alex Petitcolin. Easing by these T&Q players he guided the ball sweetly beyond the desperate dive of the home keeper, for the visitors to pull back a deserved goal. In the remaining minutes NCC created several promising attacks, compared with only a couple from T&Q; although these were potentially more dangerous they were successfully dealt with by the NCC defence.

Alex Petitcolin guides the ball sweetly beyond the desperate dive of the home keeper : 3-1

As the second half began it was NCC who made the initial running. T&Q had a free kick and then a high corner. Although the ball reached an opposition forward, just beyond the far post, he was quickly closed down by three defenders before he could control it. An Emlyn John special was put behind, for the first of two successive corners. The Hoops played some good football with these corners, and were unlucky not to have benefitted. Over-enthusiastic play, mainly from the hosts, resulted in a further pep-talk from the referee. The visitors thought they had a goal but it was ruled out for offside, and then the home side hit a post as the ball went out for a goal kick, exciting action. NCC lived dangerously as T&Q made several testing runs up their left wing, the ball being fed frequently to Nathan Stephens, their speedy number seven. On 72 minutes he succeeded in sending a tremendous volley diagonally across the goal, passing inches from the outstretched hand of Ryan Adams, only for this to be prodded home by a forward running in.

With fifteen minutes left NCC scored two goals in two minutes. The first saw man of the match Alex Petitcolin bring the ball down the left wing and send a well-taken bouncing shot past the advancing keeper. Then Guy Speedie threaded the ball through both the home defence and the keeper, to watch it enter the net, thus setting up an exciting finish.

Alex Petitcolin, running down the left wing, is about to shoot and score our, and his, second goal of the game

The visitors, geed up by their success, were rampant. Ian Jones had a near miss on the left wing, Emlyn John had a shot saved as it sped to the far post and further attempts were denied. At the other end T&Q missed a sitter, before the ball was bravely gathered by Ryan Adams, who made another brilliant save with his left boot shortly after. All to no avail, as NCC was destroyed by the opening twenty minutes, and came out on the wrong side of what became a seven-goal thriller.

A potential opportunity goes wide as NCC strive hard for that elusive equalising goal

Game 03 : League Match : 1 October 2011 :
North Cheltenham Churches 2 - 3 St Matthews

On a sweltering morning, with unseasonal temperatures for the time of year, NCC kicked of this local derby. In the opening minutes both sides probed their opponents’ defence as early forays were created. NCC was the more threatening, and James Stevens made a couple of promising attacks, ably supported by Martin Cookson and Alex Petitcolin. St Matthews managed two shots, both going wide of the target. Then, after six minutes, the visitors were awarded a free kick, just outside of the penalty area. The well-struck kick saw the ball rise over the NCC wall, and carry on into the corner of the net, giving Tim Rudge no chance.

NCC continued to put pressure on their opponents, and Chris Rudge posed a constant threat on the left wing; one of his fine efforts was well saved by Tim Aldred. The Saints created several promising attacks but they were constantly denied by good defending, ably led by man of the match Andrew Murton. After twenty minutes NCC increased their pressure, and gained three free kicks. However, individual efforts from Martin Cookson and James Stevens all came to nothing. Now the hosts had successive corners, where Chris Rudge directed a powerful header goalwards, but straight into the arms of the keeper. Almost immediately St Matthews broke quickly up their left wing, and, outstripping the defence, fired a long low ball past the diving Tim Rudge, to give the visitors another goal, an increased advantage in that heat.

Chris Rudge directed a powerful header goalwards, but straight into the arms of the keeper

Having successfully dealt with more attacks from the Saints the NCC moved up a gear, and began to create a series of threatening forays, in what seemed to be one-way traffic. Several chances were created, initially from both James Stevens and Alex Petitcolin, but the opposition keeper was up to the task. With eight minutes of the half remaining Alex Petitcolin came down the right wing, and crossed a superb ball which found Chris Rudge. With a calm composure he volleyed the ball into the net, for a deserved NCC goal. The Blues now defended in depth, and conceded two successive free kicks. The second, beautifully flighted by Emlyn John, thudded against the cross bar, only to rebound downwards, where Chris Rudge headed over. In the final minute of the half, following a goalmouth mêlée, James Stevens forced the ball between the keeper and the post, for the NCC to equalise. This was no more than they deserved, and so it set up an exciting second half; a debilitating one, considering the extreme temperature.

James Stevens forced the ball between the keeper and the post, for the NCC to equalise.

In the opening minutes of this new half it was clear that St Matthews were looking more likely to score. Their defence was able to clear the NCC attacks with improved decisiveness, and gradually the hosts were being forced onto the back foot, as St Matthews controlled the midfield. Just beyond the hour mark St Matts cleared a free kick, and then a long ball was sent down field for an attacker to nip past two defenders and score the only goal of this half.

With two minutes remaining NCC was awarded a free kick. It was a well directed strike, taken by Emlyn John from the edge of the goal-area, almost from the same spot from which the opening goal was scored. Tim Aldred made the best save of the match, as he jumped and arched his back to tip the ball upwards. It missed the bar by a coat of paint, and went over for a corner. From this corner St Matthews broke quickly but the ball was sent wide. Showing increased commitment NCC created two more attacks which gained them corners. Great excitement was had when the second was taken because the hosts had all of their players up for this set piece. As the ball was headed wide so ended the game.

Tim Aldred made the best save of the match, as he jumped and arched his back to tip the ball upwards

This victory not only enabled St Matthews to regain the Grant Bayliss Cup, lost in March 2010, but it saw them top the league table. Full credit must be given to the NCC for their total commitment throughout the match. It could be argued that the lack of sufficient fresh substitutes made the difference, as did playing up the slope, but St Matthews were better organised throughout the second half. Their ability to pack their defence increased the difficulty for NCC to penetrate. Tim Rudge, ever-alert to the situation, made a series of saves throughout the half, one from the feet of an attacker, and another from a corner; this always kept the hosts within striking distance of a point.

Game 02 : League Match : 17 September 2011 :
North Cheltenham Churches 3 - 1 Cirencester

On a cloudy day NCC, in their first home game of the season, were host to Cirencester. In the opening minutes each side made early forays as the teams settled on the hard ground. Cirencester created the more threatening attacks, and Ryan Adams had to make several saves, including one where he jumped to grab a teasing descending ball, and another, where the ball rebounded off his body, to be tidied up by Andy Murton. Although NCC did visit the other end it was the visitors who dominated, and several more shots sped wide of the home goal. Then, on the quarter of an hour, NCC conceded a free kick, just past the edge of the goal-area, and away to their left. The ball was directed towards the opposite post, where an unfortunate home player headed it into his own net, to gift the visitors the lead.

Andy Murton tussles for the ball, watched by,
from L to R: Chris Dagnall, Lee Bradley (at back) Chris Rudge (in front) and Andy Macauly

Cirencester threatened again and their forwards outnumbered the NCC defence, but the ball was sent wide. Aided by the breeze the visitors spent long periods in possession of both ball and their opponents’ half of the field. On several occasions a lone forward was clear, only to shoot wide. During this middle phase of play NCC started to string together a few more attacks, but the two-man force was contained, or their attempts were saved by the keeper or fired wide of goal.

In the final fifteen minutes of this half the home side created several more penetrating runs, through Chris Rudge and Mark Broekman, ably backed up by Guy Speedie and Chris Dagnall. In one sweet movement Chris Rudge, attacking down the left wing, found Karl Hemming who passed to Andy Macauly, only for his shot to be sent wide. Cirencester made one dangerous run up their left, only to see the ball roll well wide of an open goal; a couple of other forays were seen off by Andy Murton, once after a desperate chase back. As the half drew to a close the contest became more even, and NCC was beginning to show signs of hope and encouragement; and they would have the advantage of the breeze in the second half.

Man of the match Martin Eccles came on at half time, for his first outing of the new season. His presence in the middle enabled NCC to start the second half in a belligerent mood. They created at least five good chances in the opening five minutes, notably from Guy Speedie, Mark Broekman and Martin himself, whose shot went behind from off the top of the crossbar; shortly after this Mark saw his effort thud into the crossbar. Cirencester created few attacks, but one saw Ryan Adams push the ball behind for corner, as he kneeled on the turf. This heralded a period of play when each side sped up and down the pitch in their unrewarded endeavours to score. Then NCC pressed really hard, and had a series of chances saved, or sent wide; it seemed as if this would be one of those games when the ball would not go into the net for the team.

Martin Eccles watches as his shot sped past three defenders, and ends up in the back of the net

However, in the final fifteen minutes everything came right for the hosts, and their continued pressure finally paid off, but initially in a bizarre fashion. NCC was given an indirect free kick after the visiting keeper had held the ball too long. This free kick, taken from just inside the penalty area, bobbled about before it came to Martin Eccles. He was able to rocket the ball past a trio of defenders, and as Martin fell he saw it bulge the net. Four minutes later NCC took the lead when a good ball found Alex Petitcolin. He sent a low but well-taken volley past the keeper, who should have had it covered as he was standing by his near post. It was very much one-way traffic as NCC was becoming rampant. Mark Broekman had a good header parried by an alert keeper; soon after another attack found Guy Speedie. His effort took a wicked deflection off a defender, completely wrong-footing the unfortunate keeper, who dived too late to prevent the strike from entering the net. There was still time for excitement at each end, and Andy Murton hit the bar; the third time NCC had achieved this in this half. As the final whistle went the home side were relieved that they had won the match which seemed to be drifting away for much of the game.

Game 01 : League Match : 10 September 2011 :
St Andrews 6 - 2 North Cheltenham Churches

On an overcast day, which threatened both sunshine and showers, helped by a keen breeze, NCC played their opening match of the new season against St Andrews, a new team to the league, and at the new venue of Chosen Hill School. Although both sides had early attacks in the first fifteen minutes of the match the home side showed greater confidence with a series of skilful runs. These brought off a succession of saves from Ryan Adams, or else saw shots go wide of the goal. Mark Broekman and Ian Jones made a couple of penetrating attacks, and gained a corner. From this the home keeper made a great save as he blocked a downward header, to deny Ian at the near post. On ten minutes a lone St Andrews forward galloped past the slow NCC defence, but Ryan made a gritty save. Immediately the ball was sent up-field, where Ian Jones headed wide, with the home keeper well out of it. Then a blow hit the NCC as Ian Jones hobbled off with a recurrence of his hamstring injury, one player can make a difference to any team, as we shall see. The visitors, having survived a couple of solo attacks from Josh Dunn, saw it was third time lucky for him as his run, down the left wing, had only the keeper to beat. Thus after a quarter of an hour NCC, playing against the wind, and uphill, found themselves behind, and beginning to see a daunting task building.

Ian Jones (10) heads the ball low toward the corner of the net, only to be denied by a great save

The home side kept on with their relentless attack, and gained a couple of corners. These were wasted as they were fired wide of goal. NCC managed one real attempt, and this was a solo effort by Guy Speedie on the left wing. Then, just past the twenty minute mark, St Andrews, given acres of space, scored twice within a minute. The first goal came after a dribble down the right wing, followed by a shot from beyond the eighteen-yard box. Ryan Adams, who had left his area to meet it, was decisively beaten as the ball sped into the net. Immediately from the kick-off NCC lost the ball and their keeper came out, allowing an attacker, Jon Hills, almost a one-man team on his own, to dribble the ball around the prone keeper before shooting it into the net.

Mark Broekman strove hard as he attacked, but quite frequently he lacked support, and the dogged home defence was able to clear the ball. At the other end greater determination from the visitors saw off several forays from St Andrews, who could consider themselves unfortunate when they hit the crossbar. Ryan Adams made some great saves; one as he clutched the ball in front of a rampant forward, jumping in his attempt to head the ball home, and another save as he jumped and reached up to hold an aerial shot.

Mark Broekman (12) headed a fierce shot which sped through the crowded defence to finish in the net.

Ten minutes before the break NCC had an attack up their right wing, from which they gained a corner. Man of the match Emlyn John sent over a high ball, which was missed by a defender as he jumped in vain. Mark Broekman, alert to the situation, and straddling the six-yard box, headed a fierce shot which sped through the crowded defence, and continued past the upright, to finish in the net. For a few minutes NCC applied pressure, but they were soon on the back foot again, conceding two free kicks and allowing the hosts far too much space, as St Andrews continued to dominate the game. They finished the half by creating at least a dozen attacks, causing Ryan to bring off several fine saves.

Early in the second half Mark Broekman had a great scoring chance, which the keeper knocked over the bar for a corner; this Mark headed over for a goal kick. Then St Andrews came up the middle of the pitch and the redoubtable Jon Hills threaded a long shot through the NCC defence, and into the bottom corner of the net.

For the next thirty minutes play was more balanced, and at a reduced pace. Even so, it was still pulsating, and flowed from end to end a lot more. The hosts defended in numbers, often with seven or more players, who were able to absorb the NCC attacks. Emlyn John sent in a lob, which sped harmlessly over the bar. There was a brief period when the Reds were positioned well, and spaced across the opposition goal area, but the hosts, playing in their dazzling green tops, were able to control this with a dazzling display of ball skills. At the other end St Andrews saw the ball whizz past their right hand post; shortly after this Emlyn John took a free kick from the edge of the goal area. The ball rocketed towards a space in front of goal, but tantalisingly grazed the bar in its flight to safety.

At the start of the final fifteen minutes great excitement came as NCC missed a shot, and then saw Ryan Adams make a save at the other end. Immediately Ryan sent the ball down the left wing, where a good pass found Guy Speedie. The NCC player sent a diagonal ball past the advancing keeper, and watched as it entered the net, for him to score his first ever goal for the team. More end to end play saw the hosts miss, and their keeper to make an excellent save from the boots of Mark Broekman. Spurred on by success NCC was playing well. Awarded a free kick they could only send the ball over the bar. NCC again created a few more chances but the ball would not go into the net.

Then, with ten minutes to go, St Andrews came up again. This allowed Jon Hills to complete his hat trick, as the ball was sent between the keeper and two defenders, to finish in the bottom corner of the net, with Ryan Adams rooted to the spot. NCC was stunned. Undaunted, their next attack saw the home keeper make a good save, as he ended up on the ground; immediately this was replicated at the other end. Andy Murton foiled the next solo attack, but St Andrews were not finished yet. Having had a goal disallowed they absorbed several NCC attacks before they came up again. Deep into time added-on they rolled up the left-hand side of the field. As Ryan Adams came out to meet the ball, with the goal area devoid of players, the ball was coolly directed into the net, to hit NCC for six. The result was a surprise for the NCC, but they were outplayed by a side better in all departments.

North Cheltenham Churches Football Team
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Our Football Team

North Cheltenham Churches Football Team Sponsored by REVOLVE

Our Football Team

North Cheltenham Churches Football Team
Sponsored by REVOLVE