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King's Lynn Town 0-0 Chorley (National League North) I fancied paying the Linnets a visit as it's been a while since I've visited the Walks and although it's a 2 hour journey over 70 odd miles it's often a nice relaxing commute to Norfolk down the single lane carriageways, especially when the suns out as it is today. I'm heading East from Nottingham at 11:30am to get to King's Lynn a good hour and half before kick off. Chorley their opponents today are above Lynn in the table, managed by Andy Preece who had a good football league career in the 90's, they sit sixth in the playoffs and won 4-0 last time out against Spennymoor Town. King's Lynn are a place outside the playoffs in eighth, they were beaten by Spennymoor 3-0 a couple of weeks back but have since enjoyed back to back 1-0 victory's against Buxton and Leamington respectively. It's a gorgeous day but nippy in the shade, I'm through Grantham and up to Boston where I hit the A17, past the River Welland at Fosdyke and up to Sutton Bridge over the Nene and through the flat pastures of south Lincolnshire, it feels very Midwest America in these parts, farming and agriculture all around you, long straight single lane roads with views of flat fields and the odd wind turbine or church steeple dotted upon the horizon. I eventually hit the town of Kings Lynn on schedule, pulling up on Goodwins Road where I park outside a stunning Georgian detached house just a five minute walk from the stadium, sun beaming down it's an enjoyable last few hundred metres on foot as I spot the ground in the background of the leafy village like suburbia that is Tennyson Road. The Venue As you turn left into the entrance the first thing you see is the huge apex roofed grandstand, it's gorgeous, dwarfing everything around you, the turnstiles below are manned by a single steward who scans my phone for the ticket before I walk behind the goal where there's a coffee bar sat on the open terrace. Both goal ends are uncovered, there's a standing area that's roofed which runs the length of the field opposite the huge racecourse like grandstand which I walk back up to after buying a brew and a bar of chocolate, the wooden floored seating area is really spectacular and in good nick, one of my favourites in English football. Slightly obscured by post in view. Sat down high up on half way in the Directors & Members area you do get a chill in the air up here, as I'm joined by a scout from genius/opta who's brought his packed lunch with him, and an old boy who's a season ticket holder, with Kings Lynn scarf wrapped around his neck, he's 88 and has been coming here since the early fifties. In fact he tells me he's been coming here longer than the stand we are sat in has been here. "I was here when it opened" he said, telling me "it's first use was for a game between Lynn & Rotherham United Reserves in 1956." He tells me the grounds biggest attendance was 12,000 for an FA Cup game against Exeter City in 1951, he was here that day too, stating there used to be a big bank behind the goal to my left where a lot of fans stood, now flattened and fenced, with parking behind, I doubt you could cram half of 12,000 in here these days. The Game Both teams are in stripes, which might cause an issue for the chap besides me as he tells me his eyes aren't what they used to be. Chorley in black and white with jazzy red trim on their arms, King's Lynn yellow and blue, the bright green pitch has a bit of a bobble, as a laboured start is played at slow pace before Chorley's keeper Urwin misjudges a back pass and kicks it straight out to touch which at least gets the previously quiet crowd into gear of cheers and jeers. Lynn's Sass has a long throw, he races from left back to right to take it, but it's not caused panic for the away defence, in fact both defences are well on top, Chorley do hit the woodwork when a corner floated in is headed softly against a post by Ellis, Kings Lynn have a bit more of the ball, they whip a few dangerous crosses in largely from the right but look to lack that potency in the final third, in fact both do, as they both happily see in half time without conceding. The Score I say to the old boy "it's two teams playing like they're afraid to lose" as neither take unwanted risk in the first half, and that trend continues in the second as Chorley take off a striker for a midfielder in Tom Carr for Billy Whitehouse, Kings Lynn Manager Lakeland deciding to leave their top scorer Johnny Margetts on the bench, he won't bother using him today. Despite the lack of chances, both centre forwards that are on the pitch actually do well, Gold Omotayo is winning his aerial duals and causing havoc for Mark Ellis and Scott Wilson without really looking like scoring, at the other end the leggy Kole Hall is having a right old scrap with McFadden and Taylor, but both target men, tall and awkward number nines (Or in Hall's case 21), are far too isolated, not enough forward runners getting around them to make anything happen, but when they on occasion joined in upfront, there's chances for each, as Chorley shoot over through the impressive looking midfielder George Horbury, and late on Josh Hmami at the other end curls a shot superbly saved by Urwin around the posts. In the end though, neither team wanted to lose this game, neither were prepared to take enough risk to win it, and with four games of the season to go, both will probably be happy they're as they were at the start of the match, without losing too much ground on those above. Still well within the playoff race. The Stars Gold Omotayo was announced as man of the match which might have surprised a few inside the Walks, I saw plenty of good from him, a bit of bad, his heavy touch often letting his back to goal play down, but he did win his fair share of headers and duals. As forwards go, I was more impressed with right winger Ross Crane who's recently signed from Leiston, lively and tricky he gave his full back a hard time, especially in the first half, whilst Cody Johnson on loan from Stockport in the centre of the park, looks a real good prospect, just 20 years old he worked really hard always providing a short pass option, he hardly lost the ball and produced a few impressive moments from deep. Defensively, both sides were strong, the Linnets duo of Kyle Callan-McFadden and Greg Taylor, experienced and solid as centres back pairing, they look to enjoy the art of defending and tussling with younger opponents, taking pride in clean sheets, their third in a row. At the other end Chorley defended well too, Mark Ellis an erudite old journeyman but one who has long learned his trade which includes the dark arts, he knows when to take an injury blow to give himself some reprieve, and his side gain some respite as they look to run down the clock for a point. In midfield I was really impressed with George Horbury who they signed from Harrogate in the summer, whilst the leggy and ungainly attacker Hall was a real menace, a Bermudan international he signed from Chester in the summer. The Verdict A game neither could afford to lose, and they didn't. Not a classic, but a point gained for both, as they look towards a playoff berth with just four matches of the league season remaining. Made all the better for me by meeting an 88 year old Linnet, one who sat and talked to me about players now and then, about the Lexus he was driving a year ago before his eyes deteriorated, who chatted about his family, his health and his love for golf, who even offered me a mint imperial, which I gladly accepted. I don't often talk about mental health, as I've never really felt I've suffered from it, and it's probably because of football I don't suffer like some, a place where you can switch off for ninety minutes and enjoy the show, but also a place where you can have a chat, meet new people, then wish them well and shake their hands to say goodbye, thanking them for their time, much obliged on a day when the action on the field, wasn't all that. The Teams King's Lynn Town: Paul Jones, Dylan Crowe, Freddie Sass, Kyle Callan-McFadden, Tom Wilson, Cody Johnson, Greg Taylor, Ross Crane, Josh Hmami, Matt Warburton (Bailey Marsden 75), Gold Omotayo. Chorley: Matt Urwin, Adam Henley, Jack Leckie, Mark Ellis, Scott Wilson, Adam Blakeman, Mike Calveley, George Horbury, Warren Clarke, Tom Carr (Billy Whitehouse 61), Kole Hall (Momadou Toure 90). 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 5th April 2025, The Walks Stadium, King's Lynn (att 1,066).

Boston United 0-1 FC Halifax Town (National League) A club I have frequented plenty in recent seasons is Boston United, who opened their National League campaign at the weekend with a 3-2 win at Aldershot. Graham Coughlan has a much changed team from the one that did well to survive relegation during the last campaign, their successful return to level five of the pyramid, they do have injuries to several key players but have acquired smartly in the summer window, and hope to be well clear of danger this time around. Halifax finished last season in sixth place but were hammered 4-0 in the playoff quarter finals by Oldham Athletic who would go on to gain promotion back to the Football League. Manager Chris Millington departed off the back of that result and newly appointed is Adam Lakeland, who joins from Kings Lynn Town and with him, a couple of Linnets players making the step up from National League North. A tough start however for the Shaymen who have lost both their league matches (at Braintree & Wealdstone) so far. I'm leaving my house at 5pm to take the A52 towards Grantham, a ring road being built south linking the A1 to the A52 across Lincolnshire is currently under construction, but not yet ready, so I'm stuck in traffic midst Grantham town centre before making my way East towards the Wash, ironically the same route (bit shorter) I took on Friday afternoon as I treated the wife to a Mariah Carey concert at Sandringham. The Venue I've pulled up at half six, lucky enough to park in my usual spot across the way, but it's busy in Wyberton as home fans head to the Jakemans Stadium for the first time in the league this season. Originally they were supposed to play Morecambe on the opening weekend of the campaign, but the Shrimps have had their well-documented troubles, luckily though it seems like they will be able to continue after relegation last spring, that game with Boston, still to be re-arranged. So as it's the first of 23 guaranteed home matches, it feels there's a buzz about the town, everyone getting to ground early doors after a long layoff over post and pre season. The skies are grey, a bit of drizzle in the air, for the first time since returning to football from my short summer off, it feels like the nights are starting to draw in, the winter is coming and the chills are just around the corner. I'm through a busy grey car park and indoors to collect my ticket. "You're the last on my list" says a chirpy young girl behind the glass-windowed counter. "Everyone else has already collected theirs". Over an hour to go, it seems everyone is here chomping at the bit. Inside the modern three sided venue I grab some food, as I love the pie, chips and gravy here, so much so I was thinking about it all journey. I don't know if the chips are locally sourced from one of the many flat fields of potato farms across Lincolnshire or nearby Norfolk, but they taste crisp, with a crunch on bite, are earthy, nicely cut, not too thick, not too thin, the pie may not be pukka, but is more than adequate, meaty and tasty, pastry not too thick, then there's gravy watered down so wet you could probably bathe in it. It's probably a bit too runny in fact, as I take an extra napkin to stop the dripping down the sides of the plastic tray. Fed and oiled with a cup of tea which is lukewarm at best, I'm up to my seat where I see a local scout, who's a Grimsby fan, he always covers games here and I last seen him last season so it's been a while, he's buzzing because his team have got Manchester United in the League Cup next week. He then tells me of his sides Incredible feat, apparently Wolves v Grimsby in a 1939 FA Cup semi final is the most attended game ever, at Old Trafford. I'm more shocked that in their history, Grimsby have actually reached the FA Cup semi-final. The Game The ground has filled nicely and although there's only 95 Halifax fans it's a good atmosphere inside having started with a touching tribute and minutes applause to celebrate the life of former Pilgrims president John Blackwell who served the club between 1978-2016, as the drizzle continues to give the pitch some added zip ahead of kick-off. Under the lights, Boston start well, in their amber and black Wolverhampton Wanderers style kit. Halifax in all white with purple(ish) trim, not quite Real Madrid, but similar, perhaps, hit back with a succession of corners, and on the break they race down the left through the electric 21 year old David Kawa who beats young defender Ben Grist to the ball, before crossing low to Josh Hmami, one of Adam Lakeland's King's Lynn connects, who arrives late to slide home from his central attacking midfield position. Another former Linnet is Cody Johnson who looks neat in defensive midfield, he's mopping up everything around him as Boston push for a leveller but are often denied by good defending. The Pilgrims best canter into opposition territory is when Lenell John-Lewis gets the better of Jevon Mills, so much so the young defender has to come off suffering a serious looking shoulder injury. John-Lewis racing into the box before firing a shot low saved and put behind by Sam Johnson. The Score At half time there's a feel that Boston have dominated without really penetrating the Halifax defence. In Mills replacement, Adam Adetoro is now on the field, he's big, no nonsense, defends the basics and enjoys his battle with John-Lewis, aerially he's dominant and it's taken the strain off the pressure building from Boston's experienced front man. Dylan Hill is orchestrating, Greg Sloggett battling away, Boston have a lot of the ball but never look like scoring in the second half. I'm impressed with how Halifax have defended following two disappointing defeats, but less so with each sides attacking qualities on show. The visitors perhaps the nearest side to netting another, but neither keeper is hardly troubled again. The Stars Boston do have a lot of injuries, thinking Zak Mills, Jacob Hazel, Frankie Maguire, and new signing Michael Kelly to hand. In Connor Teale I really like their young centre half but playing left of a three without any experience (like Mills besides) to talk him through the game, meant it was a tricky evening for him. Ben Grist on the opposite side, only 20 years old, recently signed from Leicester City, also looked to have quality, tall, leggy, good carrying the ball forward, but he was perhaps at fault for the goal, not getting near enough to the speedy Kawa. The Halifax winger impressed with his positivity, always looking to beat his man on the outside and get a ball into the box, which worked perfectly for Josh Hmami's goal. The former Southport midfielder had an underwhelming time at King's Lynn, I spoke to one old supporter at the Walks last season who was far from impressed, but he looks to have found his place with freedom of Halifax. Getting forward, getting on the ball, he takes all the set plays. Behind Hmami, a familiar face from last season was his own ex-Lynn teammate Cody Johnson, scruffy haired, the 20 year old plays a role beyond his years. Off the ball brilliant, destructive, on it simple, constructive, he got around the pitch and dug in as the visitors clung to their clean sheet. Pivotal in that, centre halves Adetoro and Shaun Hobson (an astute signing of experience having spent the last two years at Oldham). Whilst Thierry Latty-Fairweather also impressed at left back. The Verdict Boston need their injured assets back, if they are to ensure a repeat of last season or better, to avoid relegation they'll need to add goals and my concern is they don't have enough in the current crop to get them, a long old season however, I'm sure that's priority in their own business interests. As for Halifax, a team who should be up there, Adam Lakeland has done very well at the level below with both Curzon Ashton and King's Lynn, he is new to the level, but we'll soon find out, if he's capable or not? The Teams Boston United: Rhys Lovett, Ben Grist, Connor Teale, Greg Sloggett, Dylan Hill, Kieren Donnelly (Jordy Hiwula 72), Lenell John-Lewis (Manni Norkett 81), Alex Lankshear, Tommy Fogarty, Jordan Richards, Jordan Cropper (Rocco Coyle 31). FC Halifax Town: Sam Johnson, Will Hugill, Shaun Hobson, Josh Hmami, Jamie Cooke, Jevon Mills (Adam Adetoro 28), Owen Bray (Jay Turner-Cooke 81), David Kawa (Angelo Capello 69), Sean Tarima, Cody Johnson, Thierry Latty-Fairweather. 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 19th August 2025, Jakemans Stadium, Boston (att 2,205)

Scunthorpe United 2-1 Aldershot Town (National League) Aldershot have a new Manager. John Coleman won't be taking charge today, leaving duty to Alan Dowson and James Henry in caretaker control, but I'm sure the announcement will make an impression on his new team. Having spent ten years at Accrington Stanley, Coleman knows what it takes to get out of this division, leading the Reds from the Northern Premier League to the third tier of English football during two spells at the Crown Ground. Coleman takes over from Tommy Widdrington who resigned with the Shots looking over their shoulder a little too nervously towards the relegation places. Sitting 19th a point above the drop zone they are hoping not to get sucked in to a long and agonising dogfight. No danger of that for Scunthorpe this year. The Iron already have 30 points and are fourth in the table, just three points off top dogs Rochdale they are flying high following promotion from the National League North with Andy Butler doing great things. It's midday, I'm out the door and heading across the A46 curving over Newark and Lincoln, I've stopped off for a Greggs on the way and arrive in good time, fully fuelled ahead of the game, pulling up on an estate nearby, a quick walk through the clubs car park and I'm inside the terraces for a quarter to two. The Venue I've been getting the National League gig to cover teams in the East this season so I'm here again, like when often in Boston, in what is now familiar territory. An hour and half drive from my door is North Lincolnshire, I'm starting to feel more at home here. I'm let through the tight turnstile as the operator asks "you know where you're going?" And I walk to the kiosk for a quick cup of tea, today accompanied by a Yorkie bar for a change (they didn't have any Twix's which I really fancied), then up to the seats in the media area, Radio Humberside, some press from down south are here, and a scout who goes home and away with Scunny. He went to Eastleigh on Tuesday night, a game which was re-arranged after being abandoned at 1-1 in the 95th minute earlier in the season. The replay inevitably ends 1-1 and the travel time of nearly 10 hours return has the scout telling me he got back at 2:30am on Wednesday morning. Filling up nicely, the Attis Arena better known to me as Glanford Park is an ageing and some would say ugly home but it has character, the stand behind the goal to my left really packs the home support in, the straight edged bowl like structure is propped up by posts and offers an enclosed amphitheatre for lower league football, which can make it quite intimidating, you're on top of the action, huddled close to the pitch, but the home supporters are generally friendly with sporadic sing songs, their hearts bleeding claret and blue deep down. There's around 170 away fans in behind the goal to my right, so that stand is sparse with plenty of empty seats, the sun shining on half the pitch as the players come out before a rendition of Hi Ho Silver Lining. The Game Aldershot in black, look up for it today, they have a 4-5-1 formation and are structurally solid, have posed a threat down the left with Ryan Jones who links up well with young Kiban Rai in the ten position. Another livewire is Lebanese International Hady Ghandour up front, he's battling well as the lone target man, good honesty and work rate, he holds it up well, and it's he who opens the scoring after twelve minutes. A loose pass by Tyler Denton has Oli Ewing in trouble, Tristan Abrahams let's fly from range, the ball hitting the head of Ghandour and wrong footing Rory Watson in Scunthorpe's goal, an unlikely opener is freakish to say the least, but you can't say it's not been deserved. Scunthorpe look off it, they lack their usual attacking rhythm not helped perhaps by Alfie Beestin not playing, Branden Horton is at centre half as Jean Belehouan and Will Evans are out, but he's actually doing ok. I earlier asked if the former Chesterfield full back would be alright there, to be told "he's comfortable as a short term solution" lacking the height and power of those he's replaced. Despite the ugliness of their start, which is a lot down to the way Aldershot have set up, Scunthorpe play on the front foot. Oli Ewing has been lively, it looks like a game made for him, tough tackling, lots of running from midfield, snapping and harassing opponents but with a bit of quality when in possession, he knocks a right footed in-swinging corner into the box, goalkeeper Dewhurst flaps under his crossbar and Cal Roberts heads home from close range to level. It's funny as the pre game chat with the Scunny scout was based on the poor set play deliveries of recent matches, as Ewing usually over hits his corners we discussed perhaps mixing them up and going short today. This cross wasn't much better than his usual efforts but the stats will say goal scored by set piece. Roberts an unlikely player to be heading in as one of the shorter players on the pitch, but that goal is a quick response from a team who don't seem to have too much trouble scoring. The Score The football hardly improves, Cal Roberts is largely well marshalled by Ryan Hill at left back, Danny Whitehall is getting frustrated with big Ben Jackson niggling away at him, but Roberts and Whitehall combine on 32 as the Geordie winger crosses from the right left footed, the ball bouncing in the area has Whitehall nod it against the crossbar, Zain Westbrooke following in to put the Iron ahead. That goal knocks a bit of stuffing out of Aldershot who continue to chug on with their efforts and make it an ugly scrap. It's a game of few chances with not much flow to possession. Although the Referee in charge is doing his best to let it flow as he hardly blows his whistle, despite some challenges that would usually be penalised by others of stricter orientation. At half time you expect the next goal to be crucial, you feel it could be a day where Scunthorpe drop points, not firing on all cylinders, whilst Aldershot have battled gallantly, should they concede again, that could be that, with too much to do. But the goal doesn't come. In the second half Aldershot have claim for a penalty when goalkeeper Watson rushes out to take down Abrahams on the edge of his area, a goal kick awarded as the visiting commentary team behind me call foul. An even better chance is wasted when substitute Kwame Thomas heads from close range after Abrahams floats in, Thomas has the whole goal to aim for to level but finds a combination of crossbar and keeper to somehow miss. The away side ramp up 14 corners total but nothing avails, despite being off it, Scunthorpe have won, and the supporters can go home happy, perhaps knowing they've got away with one. The Stars On my first viewing of Aldershot this season I was impressed with a number of their stars, the best on the pitch perhaps, twenty year old Kiban Rai. The former Newport playmaker was easy on the eye, picking up the ball and linking in particular with Ryan Jones really well. The speedy left winger giving Joe Starbuck a tough afternoon. Defensively, I quite liked their young central duo, Ben Jackson is tall and gritty, Will Armitage another twenty year old, on loan from Southampton, reading the game well he was positionally astute. Skipper Ryan Hill at left back also having a good game containing Cal Roberts, despite the Scunthorpe talisman still racking up another goal and half assist. The midfield battle was intriguing, Oli Ewing and Joe Rowley perhaps coming out on top against Cameron Hargreaves and Ciaran Gilligan, but I was also impressed with the 23 year old who's on loan from Burton Albion. Up front, Hady Ghandour was a nuisance and worked hard for his goal, in Kwame Thomas and Tristan Abrahams, Aldershot have more than competent firepower for the level. The Verdict A win which takes Scunthorpe second and a point behind Rochdale. I do question if they are good enough to last the long haul but they are where they are on merit, because they have good players, and in Cal Roberts, I said it last season, he was the best player in the division, and there's not many better in this division on his day, even today, when it weren't his day, he contributed, which can often be the difference between two teams of similar skill set. Aldershot are now a place above the drop zone level with Braintree on thirteen points from sixteen games, but a new Manager will hopefully have the effect they are looking for. The team is more than good enough to survive, and I think they'll be ok. The Teams Scunthorpe United: Rory Watson, Joe Starbuck, Andrew Boyce, Branden Horton, Tyler Denton, Joe Rowley, Oli Ewing, Billy Chadwick (Carlton Ubaezuono 69), Zain Westbrooke (Kian Scales 69), Callum Roberts (Declan Howe 60), Danny Whitehall (Joey Dawson 60). Aldershot Town: Marcus Dewhurst, Archy Taylor (Maxwell Mullins 86), Will Armitage, Ben Jackson, Ryan Hill, Cameron Hargreaves (Keane Anderson 79), Ciaran Gilligan, Kiban Rai, Tristan Abrahams (Tyler Frost 86), Ryan Jones (Toby Nelson 79), Hady Ghandour (Kwame Thomas 70). 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 25th October 2025, Glanford Park, Scunthorpe (att 4,222).

Tiverton Town 2-4 Yeovil Town (Friendly) I’m in the West Country for a cricket game on Saturday so thought I would tie my trip in with a visit to Tiverton Town on Friday night, staying over at a B&B nearby it means I’ll be fresh for my journey to Somerset in the morning and I won’t be getting up at 5am. It’s pissing down in Nottingham, I’ve checked Twitter to see if the pitch is ok ahead of travel and no signs of postponement, so off I set at 1pm thinking I should be at the digs in three hours, little did I know what was to come. I’ve hit the M1 and traffic is building already ahead of my cross midland excursion down the M42… By Birmingham I have my in-car sat nav telling me an estimated arrival time of 6pm as all three lanes are trudging along at snails pace. Onto the M5 heading South-West the rain lashing on my windscreen I can hardly see the car in front, but I am seeing signs for Worcester and I’m already two hours in, by Bristol I’ve done four hours and am starting to lose my rag soon after as traffic stands still at Portishead. Finally, after an afternoon largely helped by Hawksbee & Jacobs keeping me sane on TalkSport (which included an intriguing ten minute phone call to Chris Packham about the UK’s shortage of butterflies) I’ve made it to the hotel, just off the A38 near Wellington, junction 26 of the M5, pulling up at six on the dot, knowing I need to be at the ground for half past, an hour ahead of a 7:30pm kick off. “I’ve got a booking for tonight” I tell the hotelier… “I can’t see your name” he replies… “I booked it on booking.com, it’s all there” I say confidently… “ah, I’ve found you” he tells me… “you’ve booked Friday June 14th 2024”…. Luckily… There’s room at the inn… I cancel the original booking (for next year) before the owner charges me another sixty quid, quickly swiping my card I take the keys, drop my bag off and instantly head back out the door to the ground. The Venue I’m flying down the M4 to the next junction where I come off for the A361 signposted Tiverton and hop over a couple of roundabouts before luckily, the ground appears in front of me, right on the edge of town. I’ve pulled up on Park Hill outside an MOT garage where the sign for Tiverton Town Football Club fronts the venue below its narrow poled floodlights, I park outside the garage as it’s closed and walk less than 30 seconds to the turnstile in the corner of the ground, little more than two minutes later than my half past six schedule. There’s a few Yeovil fans in front of me, they walk in through the gate and are escorted to the bar to pay their way in as the turnstile only accepts cash (£8 adults), with card only myself, I follow them to the modern looking bar area to make payment for entrance before a quick wee, I purchase a cup of tea for £2 and head around the far side of the ground to the seated stand. The ground impresses me on entrance. The wide grassy playing surface has the backdrop of four low roofed stands all propped up by plenty of yellow posts. I walk behind the goal area which is terraced but largely undercover to the seated section before noticing I can’t get through by the corner flag, a big yellow gate in the way as I look towards a steward and ask which way I should go. He’s an old boy, actually the grounds PA and is a lovely bloke who tells me about the days when the club regularly got crowds of 1,000 plus… “that went down to 900, then 600, then 300” he says “kids nowadays aren’t interested in coming to watch us play”. He lets me through the gate which is there because the players changing rooms are in that very corner, little more than a couple of portacabins there’s some Yeovil players standing outside, probably not enough space inside to all get changed, some of the subs for the second half are out sitting in the stand, waiting for the first half team to get changed before they can go in. I’m guided past the players to the press box where the old boy tells me Max, the clubs media guy, will look after me, “it’s his birthday today” he states, Max is sitting down with the Yeovil radio team, everyone is friendly as I join them five rows high and look across towards the impressive St Peters Church in the background, post obstructing the centre of the playing surface but well undercover as it once again, starts to rain. The ground is named after Chairman Ian Moorcroft who’s recently stood down his involvement to be replaced by ex-Plymouth Argyle CEO Michael Dunford. Formerly known as ‘Ladymead’ it’s a venue that certainly has character, but although Tiverton got a decent four figure crowd against Exeter last week, tonight lacks the numbers of attendees to match, I expected more to view opposition that as recently as ten years ago, played in the Championship. The Game I’m surprised Yeovil have brought a full squad and by that I mean, all their new signings and only one trialist… Apparently Manager Mark Cooper doesn’t believe in having too many trialists as I’m told “he knows what he wants, if they’re good enough, he’ll sign them”. In contrast, Tiverton have a couple who start and a whole number on the bench, they have a former Hucknall Town striker in attack who I’m aware of, Niall Thompson was born in Derby and played at Watnall Road before moving to Truro City where he did well playing over 100 games, these days aged 32 I’m told, he lives in Torquay. Familiar names too at Yeovil, Scott Pollock who signed from Boston last season is injured but defender Josh Staunton is a lower league stalwart who I know, Frank Nouble likewise, he was at southwest rivals Torquay last season and recently signed with experience even of the Premier League via his days at West Ham. Rhys Murphy is a former Arsenal youngster who returns to the Glovers having previously hit 34 goals in 65 games before moving to Southend. All three start for Mark Cooper’s men and the recently relegated now National League South team look fitter, sharper, faster, stronger, than their league lower opposition from kick off. Within four minutes they’re 1-0 up.. Frank Nouble finding strike partner Rhys Murphy who runs through to delicately chip the goalkeeper with a subtle touch of class inside the box. Within fifteen minutes it’s two, Tiverton’s teenage shot stopper Saunders gets in a mess and passes straight to Murphy who says thank you very much. I predict the floodgates to open as the Tiverton staff look concerned to how poorly they start, “they don’t fancy it tonight” I say, as Yeovil play with intent, high paced, confidence with crisp passing, they tackle big, and through Charlie Cooper in particular, sometimes a little naughtily. Both sides have their moments to score, but it’s the moments in the middle of the park that really get the temperature rising, a bit of pushing and shoving follows a tackle by Allen on Cooper, payback I feel for a couple of earlier ones the Yeovil managers son dished out himself. Cooper is a holding midfielder who can spot a pass and sense danger, I like his style but he aint half a naughty f*cker, I wonder if playing for ‘dad’ means he feels he has to try that bit ‘harder’ to impress his team-mates? He’s certainly the enforcer for his club and he certainly sparks off a few handbags during a competitive first half. On the ball however, Yeovil are dominant and impressive, they break the lines with a slide rule pass by Murphy who this time pays back the compliment to Nouble, he does the rest on 33 to put his side three up. There’s even time for another before the break, a penalty as Murphy is felled, the 32-year-old stepping up on his first game back to slot home his hat-trick. The Score Whilst I’m sat there at half time expecting eight or nine for the away side, I’m surprisingly impressed with the comeback of Tiverton in the second half. The one change from Yeovil at the break see’s Cooper sensibly taken off, before he's probably sent off, but a number of trialists come on for the home side, whilst a few youngsters later enter the field for Yeovil, Jamie Richards does pull a goal back, before Jack Rice makes the final few minutes interesting, in the end Mark Cooper’s men relieved that they didn’t throw a four-goal lead completely away. The Stars Taken off shortly into the second half, Rhys Murphy on return to the club, scored three and assisted, having a hand in all his sides goals. Yeovil looked particularly strong through their spine, Josh Staunton dependable and at ease in defence, next to Morgan Williams who also did well. Charlie Cooper has that snap you need but can also play a bit too, Frank Nouble and Murphy in attack, will certainly provide a headache for opposition defenders, Nouble in particular having a cracking battle with Jamie Richards, who at one stage has his armband almost ripped off as the big Frenchman grappled with his shirt. Youngsters-wise, right back loanee from Bristol City Zachary Bell in the first half especially, really impressed with fast feet and forward runs, rumour is he also has a huge throw, whilst Benjani Jr, son of the former Manchester City and Portsmouth striker Benjani Mwarurwari, really excited on the eye with a late cameo, he’s aged 18 and looks to have a great future in the game, fast and direct, very similar to the old man. For Tiverton, well from being a good distance below their opponents in quality during the first half, they stepped it up in the second 45 and much game were central defenders Jamie Richards and Josh Jones in particular, whilst Niall Thompson was a real menace up top, progressive and powerful, he should have scored when he tried a 30 yard chip over the goalkeeper which went wide, upon being substituted he looked really unhappy to be coming off. The Verdict If the first 45 was anything to go by, and I believe the way Mark Cooper will want his side to play, will be based on that impressive opening half performance, well Yeovil have a serious chance of a quick return to the National League, with strong, solid, professional, experienced players, who do the basics well, they have good depth to their squad and enough talent in it, not just to win the league, but dominate it too. I’ll be surprised if they don’t push for promotion with the likes of Torquay behind them, whilst Tiverton may find things harder in their own league, they certainly shown a plucky side which is a good attitude to have, but with two teenage goalkeepers in their ranks and a lot of youngsters, they look like a side lacking that bit of experience needed, to take them up to the level above. The Teams Tiverton Town: Ollie Saunders (Trialist 46), Trialist (Trialist 61), Trialist (Trialist 46), Matt Britton (Trialist 84), Josh Jones, Jamie Richards, Louis Morison (Tom Bath 75), River Allen (Carlo Garside 39), Niall Thompson (Trialist 80), Jack Rice, Dylan Jones. Yeovil Town: Will Buse (Lewis Williams 46), Morgan Williams (Jamie Sendells-White 70 (Jacob Shore 74)), Josh Staunton (Aidan Skiverton 70), Jake Wannell (Ollie Haste 63), Alex Whittle (Will Dawes 46), Zac Bell (Matthew Worthington 70), Charlie Cooper (Josh Owers 46), Jordan Stevens (Benjani Jr 70), Jordan Maguire-Drew (Jordan Young 53), Frank Nouble (Trialist 63), Rhys Murphy (Malachi Linton 63). 7:30pm Kick Off. Friday 14th July 2023, the Ian Moorcroft Stadium, Tiverton (att 349).

Republic of Ireland U19 6-0 Gibraltar U19 (UEFA European U19 Championships Qualifiers) It’s 10:47am Wednesday 21st September 2022 and I’ve just had an email to be at a game in North Wales which kicks off at 4pm. I’m sitting feet up with a cup of tea next to Bruce the dog in my toasty East Midlands home 134 miles away… Do I tell the bosses to do one and sod off? Do I eck… I bloody love football. ‘I’m off out’ I shout to the wife, we both work from home (when I’m not trawling through the nations football fields) and she’s upstairs unmoved and unconcerned as to where I could be going, within minutes I'm in the car with my favourite Napapijri gillet on, baseball cap, jeans and converse, trying to sort the sat nav. It’s her car and nothing is set up. I’m still waiting for mine to be dropped off next month, a bigger version of hers pretty much, one with more fuel in too I bet. I’m at Clifton petrol station on the A453 so stick forty quid in and grab a meal deal and a pack of chewing gum, A50 across to Stoke onto the M6, M56 through North Wales and should be there in a couple of hours give or take. It’s not until I pass the industrial looking shithole that is Queensferry do I get on the winding single-track roads of Denbighshire, stunning climbs up and down the valleys, the views spectacular, green and grey as the fields offer some sparkle to the dull September skies. The Venue I finally arrive around 1:30pm and park up outside a school, the ground opposite is quaint, a red gated entrance with single turnstile leading to a pleasant looking clubhouse, surrounded by playing fields, the horizon views are of rolling hills in the distance. I’ve a little work to do before I start, so get my laptop out and check kick off time whilst I’m reading my emails, ‘it’s a 4pm KO not 3pm as for some reason I thought’, I’m an hour and half early, I need to take a walk as I’ve been busting for a piss since Chester. I get out the car and stroll up towards the town centre, Google maps tells me it’s not that far but what it doesn’t tell me is that it’s up a hill that would probably not look out of place in the Brecon Beacons. I wander up the high street which has a couple of charity shops, a co-op and a Holland & Barrett, and decide that I should probably head back when I get as far as Bevans Home & Gardens. Making way back down the same incline I went up, I sit clenched crotch and put feet up in the car for a while until I pluck up the courage to make my grand entrance. As I walk through the gate and haggle on my £3 entrance fee, the Gibraltar lads are already on the pitch, taking in the surroundings in red tracksuits, they look smart, and young, the under 19’s are here for their European Championships Qualifiers, facing the Republic of Ireland today who are yet to arrive, they’re both in the Welsh group with Hungary, it seems all this week’s matches will be in Wales, which makes sense, all teams staying central to one of the nations in the group playing three matches total, cuts down on travelling and gets things done quickly, the top two in the group then qualify for the next stage with the winning teams making the 2023 finals to be played in Malta. I finally take a much-needed stroll to the toilet which is a single khazi to the back of the clubhouse, as the Ireland team arrive with swagger and take time to inspect the pitch for themselves, it’s in fab condition, lush green, flat as a pancake, plenty of grass on it, they let it grow in these parts. By this time I’m sat high up in the sixth row of the stand, In the media section, a nice table to place my laptop and a coffee, only a quid it cost made by a man in the canteen, strong with a splash of milk, single sugar, which goes down a real treat. As an official UEFA match, there’s a delegate from Switzerland who's liaising with the paramedics, as well as a chap who records all the stats, who’s sat with me. He’s headed over from Port Talbot in South Wales and it took him longer to get to Denbigh than I did. There’s a young Irish player in the stand, James Golding of Oxford United, who says in a southern English accent, "I can’t play because my passport hasn’t arrived in time". The stand slowly fills up with Gibraltar fans, parents of players, who’s dialect switches interestingly from Spanish to English so quickly. Some have suitcases, most have packed lunches. The Irish mam and dads are fashionably late, surely they’ve not all been waiting in the bar? The Game The two teams walk out before first Gibraltar sing their anthem. A softly sang rendition before Ireland’s turn, where it seems half of the team haven’t yet learned their words. Ireland are captained by a rather strapping looking centre half called James Abankwah, apparently he plays for Udinese? It’s soon apparent too that he oozes class and controls proceedings, orchestrating play from the back, although easily done when you have no-one to mark. You can put out that cigar now James! Gibraltar sit back, in fairness, they’re gutsy, organised, but not very good on the ball, Ireland seem bigger, stronger, quicker, and immediately bully their opponents to defending in numbers. The Irish play, coached by Tom Mohan and assisted by former Stoke striker Jon Walters, is very much, get it wide to get crosses in, a style I’ve always liked, uncomplicated, old skool and British, making use of two fantastic wingers they have. One of those wingers, Rocco Vata, is a player of Celtic FC and son of Albanian star Rudi. Rocco has tremendous feet, frighteningly fast, a real prospect, whilst another winger is equally tricky, Kevin Zefi, a left footed diva with a bit of attitude, he plays for Inter Milan and oozes quality, the pedigree of this Irish team already at this age potentially better than that of the full squad, although there are a few home-growns too, goalkeeper Reece Byrne plays for Bohemians, right back Sam Curtis from St Patrick’s Athletic is very competent and talks to his team-mates constantly. The Score It’s a comprehensive whitewash which ends 6-0 to Ireland, only one of those goals is scored before half time by Cork City striker Mark O’Mahony who nets his second and third before being subbed to save his legs shortly after the break. Ireland miss a penalty and add three more later on, in truth, it could have been much more than six, Gibraltar don’t register a single shot, and have been well and truly outplayed. The Stars Abankwah looks accomplished enough to forge a career in the game whilst Sean Grehan besides him, at Crystal Palace, capped an impressive game off with a late goal, the wingers excite whilst little Harry Vaughan of Oldham in the centre of the park was up for the battle despite of some big tackles against him. O’Mahony probably only had three touches and scored them all, whilst Vata shown promise and trickery, the real thorn for Gibraltar was defending Kevin Zefi who certainly liked to take a touch or five, but he could certainly too make things happen. The Verdict Denbigh Town is a lovely football club, and it has a superb playing surface which is second to none, the pitch the reason I'm told it got to host such a prestigious match. I was also told most of the top tier grounds now in Wales have artificial surfaces (Denbigh are tier three), 3g or 4g and that really disheartens me, seeing perfect (and not so good) pitches ripped up, understandably for the revenue that these never waring playing surfaces can now offer, but there’s something ‘real’ about playing football on grass, as the great Brian Clough once said, ‘how it should be played.’ Ireland certainly enjoyed it, pinging cross field balls around at each other at electric pace, they looked a cut above Gibraltar, who lets face it, in getting to experience the joys of international football are by being part of occasions like this, living their own dream. The Teams Republic of Ireland: Reece Byrne (Aaron Maguire 85), Sam Curtis, James Abankwah, Sean Grehan, Alex Murphy, Rocco Vata (Ronan Maher 61), Oisin Gallagher, Harry Vaughan (Thomas Lonergan 68), Justin Ferizaj (Edward McJannet 68), Mark O'Mahony (Nathan Fraser 68), Kevin Zefi. Gibraltar: Harry Victor, Lee Soiza (Jayden Villa 46), Julian Britto (Jayron Negron 81), Evan Busto, Kyle Rodriguez, Sean Luke Perera (Julian Soiza 62), Kevan Gonzalez, Han Stevens, James Caetano (Rafi Emrani 62), Finlay Cawthorn, Liam Jessop. 4pm Kick Off. Wednesday 21st September 2022, Central Park, Denbigh (att: 115).

South Shields 4-0 Scarborough Athletic (National League North) The rain is pelting down on my car, that tinny sound it makes sounding harder than it actually is as I drive back down the A19 and through the Tyne Tunnel (£2.50 again) in rush hour with windscreen wipers on the go after my quick stop and go at Starbucks. South Shields are leading the National League North. A team with ambition since Geoff Thompson took on the club in 2015. The Utilitywise founder, owner of a British energy consulting company, has since led a side towards more silverware than many more significant clubs in England during his tenure. A Northern League second division title in 2016 was followed by Northern League first division and FA Vase success in 2017, followed by a third successive championship and promotion, that of the Northern Premier League Division One North, in 2018. A second placed finish in the Northern Premier League ended with playoff defeat in 2019, the year after, South Shields were top of the division as COVID wiped out the campaign. The Mariners however, finally reaching the National League North after winning the NPL in 2023 after five (two interrupted) seasons at the level. Since, it has been about getting familiar with the sixth tier of English football, and this season the side under the management of Ian Watson have been familiar with winning again, top of the division, three points and a game in hand above AFC Fylde, and tonight's opponents Scarborough, who are third. Scarborough manager is Jonathan Greening, a European Champions League winner with Manchester United. He's been at the helm of the Seadogs ship since 2021, winning promotion from the Northern Premier League via the playoffs in his first season, ever since, Scarborough have been sitting middle or thereabouts in the National League North. Not this season though, both teams today at the forefront very much with promotion on their mind, which whets the appetite as I get out my car in trying to avoid the wet, from persistent rain that has kicked in since this afternoon. The Venue It's an industrial estate around here, Shaftsbury Avenue is aligned with factories, backed by the busy Newcastle Metro line and Bede Station near Tyne Dock, amidst the bleak brick units you notice some rather colourful rounded floodlights, lit in claret and blue around their rim, they draw you in as you walk closer to the ground, eventually, reaching the large Main Stand that backs on to the road, newly built houses behind it, a sign saying 1st Cloud Arena in front of the blue roofed Wolf Competitions Stand. As I ask a steward "where do I go to get my press pass?" "Straight through the Main Doors" I'm told, as I follow a Scarborough player who's parked near me on the main road, into the stadium, it's 6:30pm and as I get my ticket, a man tells me "the press box is full tonight, so you're in the Main Stand" which I find out, is a cracking view. Inside the venue, the rain is falling underneath dark skies lit up by the clubs wonderful quirky floodlights, it has a bit of everything, more impressive than I had imagined, it's my first time here, but I like it, bigger than I thought, the seated stand that hogs this near touchline is excellent, elevated pews along the by-line, offices underneath, the boardroom, catering, club shop and bar, as I walk around the pitch to take a couple of photos, it has segregation in place for tonight as I chat to a steward who's been working here since the start of the season, Scarborough fans behind the goal to my left, low roofed, like the stand to my right, opposite has a marquee, the Durata Stand which has usual press seating is odd looking near half way, the players changing rooms in a flat roofed brick building to the right which has electronic scoreboard lit up on the wall. The Game I'm chatting to a young Geordie lad who works for Stats Perform who's sitting besides me, he's serious faced the sort who looks like he don't want a conversation, but is actually more than happy to oblige, as the two teams come out to play, Scarborough in changed yellow, South Shields in full Burnley FC claret and blue. I'm expecting fireworks, the recent downpour has given the pitch nice zip, the battle at the top means it's a big game for both, but as we get underway, it's clear that Scarborough just don't want to be here. I get it... Going to top of the league who are flying, on a cold, wet Tuesday night in October, you either take the bull by the horns, or you just runaway from the bull, and you hope it goes away. That's what Scarborough do, they run away, damage limitation, they play like they want to get this match over with, sitting off, letting South Shields dictate, it's all too easy, Paul Blackett, their free scoring striker has already had a couple of sniffs, he gets the bounce off a shot palmed by Whitely and puts the home side up within five minutes. The hosts are confident, more direct than I thought they would be, they have so much of the ball it's like a training game, but every now and again they entice Scarborough in to the press, before isolating defenders with the pacey Blackett, before going long, or sliding him in, he's one of the top goalscorers in the division this year, as he was last year when he netted 22, and the season before when he topped the charts with 29, he's a classy player, electric pace and needs little opportunity to convert, although he seems to make his own opportunity just by being good at knowing where to be. I'm telling the guy besides me that "it's all too easy" and that "this could be three or four tonight" but no sooner as I do, do Scarborough venture a rare forage into the box. Harry Green winds his foot back and as he aims to shoot through a crowd, his leg is taken from behind him, he scuffs the ball wide but the Referee signals penalty, it's soft, it probably is the right decision, and somehow Scarborough have a chance from nowhere, to level. It is completely against the run of play, an injustice of sorts, but rules are rules, regardless of how finicky they are, and Walker steps up after a long delay, to reignite the championship race, but as he puts the ball down, runs up and kicks the ball, he does so without any conviction whatsoever, a pea rolling penalty easily grasped by keeper Jasper Sheikh, it's one of the worst penalties (on target) I have ever seen. The Score It's become so easy that Sheikh in goal is attempting to dribble around Scarborough players inside his own box, he gets tackled but the Seadogs can't make the most of it, another scare for a side who then at least decide to step it up a gear again. Luke Woolston is a midfielder on loan from Middlesbrough, who has been brilliant. I remember watching him previously for Boro v Monchengladbach in the Premier League Cup, his ginger hair flowing noticeably as he comes short, collects possession, and whips the ball into forward positions. Woolston has got the motors running, his engine at full pelt as he races down to beat a defender to the ball on the left wing, whipping up another forward pass with a cross that is headed into the location of Cedwyn Scott, the former Notts County striker turns with time inside the box, to blast home a second and put the game beyond doubt, going into half time. That goal is an inevitable sucker blow, as no-one really believes that Scarborough will come out of the blocks in the second half and have a good go at getting back into the match, and within five minutes of the restart, that theory is put to truth, as Blackett receives a nice pass to turn on the edge of the area, and without back lift, blast home a third to pretty much seal the deal. "It's as good as I've ever seen us play" one fan near me says aloud as South Shields continue to dominate. By now, Robbie Tinkler and Dillon Morse at the back, have so much time on the ball, if they just sit on it and go to sleep, I think Scarborough's players will just stand and wait with them until the Ref puts them out of their misery, "let's get the bloody hell out of here" is all I think, they think. On 65 Dan Ward who's been racing down the right all night gets a fourth, another slide rule pass forward, again too much time and space, Ward picks his spot inside the box and induces more misery on Jonathan Greening's miserable evening. The last half hour with injury time is a procession which includes a few subs from all involved, South Shields get to rest up the likes of Woolston and Blackett ahead of Saturday, whilst Scarborough get a lively look at Zane Myers and Theo Chapman who unlike some previous, at least do run around a bit. The Stars At 27 years old and tied into a contract until 2027 (with a further year option) Paul Blackett might not be on the radar of any clubs, but he's certainly at this level indeed, a striker that makes a difference. He's dynamic, with good movement, he shoots at goal like good strikers do, does nothing out of the ordinary, but does the good and ugly stuff, all really well. Goalscoring centre forwards like this are few and far between, which is why South Shields have him long term, which is why South Shields are top of the league. Luke Woolston at 20 years old is probably more your shop window material. On loan from Middlesbrough. Championship clubs don't really let their players drop down the levels so low, unless they don't think their outgoing loanees will make it, so it might be about putting himself in the shop window, I think National League, League Two, Woolston can certainly forge a career from that starting base. Other good performances came from left back Ollie Bainbridge who's on loan from Sunderland, Robbie Tinkler cool with experience at the back alongside him, in midfield Will Jenkins ran his socks off, whilst Dan Ward down the right won sponsors man of the match. For Scarborough, a night to forget. Whilst Lewis Maloney their defensive midfielder was one who kept going, his distribution best of a bad lot, not a lot happened from an attacking perspective. Luca Colville, Dom Tear and Stephen Walker all too quiet. At least late on some young energy posed effort, Zane Myers, Rio Allan, Theo Chapman, all perhaps suggesting, all is not yet lost. The Verdict South Shields will either win the league, or they will finish second behind AFC Fylde on 100 plus points. The National League North has become such an exciting title race in recent years, it is hard to predict who will make it over the line, but one thing you can predict, the Mariners will be up there, and they'll offer plenty more teams with similar beatings to what they gave Scarborough. The Seadogs themselves might be in a slightly false position right now? Still third, still in the playoff hunt, they might even be better than what they suggested, in front of me, on the night, but luckily I'll get another chance to see them in a couple of weeks at Worksop, perhaps then, will be better time to judge? The Teams South Shields: Jasper Sheikh, Robbie Tinkler (Ethan Mann 80), Oliver Bainbridge, Cain Sykes, Dillon Morse, Paul Blackett (Sean McGurk 66), Will Jenkins, Dan Ward, Cedwyn Scott (Todd Alcock 63), Caden Kelly (Dan Savage 89), Luke Woolston (David Carson 67). Scarborough Athletic: Ryan Whitely, Kieren Weledji, Lewis Maloney, Will Thornton, Alex Purver, Stephen Walker (Rio Allan 71), Harry Green (Michael Duckworth 80), Luca Colville (Bill Marshall 90), Dom Tear (Zane Myers 72), Alex Brown, Jack Waldron (Theo Chapman 81). 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 21st October 2025, Mariners Park, Jarrow (att 1,946).

Newcastle United U19 1-5 Benfica U19 (UEFA Youth League Group Stages) It's all going off today. I'm heading north whilst listening in to the radio, Sean Dyche is the new boss of Forest, Danny Rohl announced in charge of Rangers whilst Ian Evatt has got the Blackpool job. West Ham are getting slated on air for last night's dismal performance against Brentford and the outcry from the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban by Birmingham (West Midlands) Police has finally ended out of Westminster, thankfully with no politicians involved, after Maccabi themselves announce they don't want their fans to come to a racist and unsafe country like England. I've got a double header today. I was given Newcastle United's U19 match against Benfica and told my bosses, due to the distance of travel involved, I'll only do it if you give me another game in the evening, hoping to get Newcastle against same opposition in the Champions League tonight, I got South Shields v Scarborough, which I suppose will do. So on to the early game, Newcastle have lost both of their UEFA Youth League matches so far, a 3-2 defeat at home to Barcelona followed by a 2-0 loss against Union Saint-Gilloise of Belgium. As for Benfica, they got off to a phenomenal start to their European campaign with a 7-1 win over Qarabag before a 5-2 loss at Chelsea, if anything today, I'm expecting goals. It's a 3 hour drive and a 2pm kick off so I leave ahead of 10am to give myself plenty of time, up the M1, I miss the turning for the M18, daydreaming with the back drop of TalkSport rambling in my ear, so continue past Sheffield and Leeds, onto the A1 and eventually off onto the A194(M) heading for and through the Tyne Tunnel (which is £2.50 a pop). The Venue Whitley Park is the training ground of Newcastle United Football Club. In the Benton area of the city, it's north of the town centre, quiet, leafy, rural, I stop off at the local Asda for a wee before pulling up on Whitley Road to park. My first time here, it's not obvious where to go as I take a walk down the track towards Newcastle United's Academy, before being told to turn back on myself and enter further up the street. The complex itself is a little dated looking from the outside feeling more like an old school or army barracks. A huge sports hall with a curved roof and a couple of brick buildings beside it. The turnstiles are easy enough to spot in between and as I enter, elevated looking down on the pitch side on, I notice it looks nothing more than a step 6 or 7 venue fenced off with a cricket pitch behind, near side is a couple of tin roofed stands where no more than fifty or so can congregate up on the bank, behind one goal another low roofed standing area, the rest uncovered, open to the elements, as I spot a serving hatch in the building behind me, somewhere at least, where I can get a cup of tea. Brew in hand with a Twix I look for a spot where I can call home, asking the steward if it's ok to take my tea pitch side, eventually walking around to opposite where I came in. Halfway, almost, leant against a barrier where I'm joined by a couple of Benfica supporters, smelling the grass, listening in to the Portuguese players chirp in their pre-game warm up, there's a few fans and scouts, delegates and attendees on the bank above, as more folk start to walk around and gather round me. The Game I don't know what to do with my coat, it's warm but cold, dry but wet, one of those typical October days in England where you don't know what the weather's going to do next. I take it off and lie it on the floor before putting it back on again, the sunshine going behind the clouds for kick off as the skies turn grey, nip back in the air, rain is pending as Benfica in red and baggy white shorts, get us under way against Newcastle in classic black and white stripes. The travelling team are technical, talented, you can see they have the advantage in quality, that touch of calmness in their play, midfielders Quintas and Freitas boss things whilst the micro like mini Moreira glides around wearing number ten. He reminds of Juninho, especially in that baggy red and white kit which sends me back to the 90's and those brilliant Middlesbrough days under Bryan Robson. Another player impressing is nicknamed 'Dudu' on the left wing, Eduardo Fernandes is technical with speed he plays a bit like Angel di Maria, whilst up front Souza takes aim with every chance he gets, a classic number nine of modern qualities, touch, technique, he draws defenders in, backs into their chest with good strength and looks to have natural finishing ability too. He's persistent, which I like. Benfica are largely the enforcers during a dominant first half, they have a few shots off target from range before finally breaking the deadlock, Dudu set free to fire low, past Mair to give the young Eagles a half time lead. The Score It's been a feisty one at times with a couple of bookings, Newcastle, the Magpies, know there best chance is to ruffle the feathers of Benfica who are nicknamed As Aguias (The Eagles), but they ruffle too hard when Watts dangles a leg out inside the area on 54. Moreira's measured pass almost intercepted by the Newcastle defender, but Souza's leg was taken down as he nipped in to take the ball and a penalty is rightly awarded by the Referee from Belgium. 'Falta' shouts the Portuguese speaking Benfica fan besides me. The little playmaker couldn't however finish what he started, Moreira's low penalty is poor to the left of Mair and is saved which is greeted by joy from a number of young school kids watching behind the goal. You might have thought that let off would lift Newcastle but it only fuels the fire of Benfica more. They double advantage when Mair fails to hold a shot from outside the box, Sousa sniffing, poaching predatory home from close range, then Dudu doubles his tally with another, before Moreira finally got the goal his game deserved, a mazy dribble before unleashing right footed in off the post. A deep roar of 'Gol' from behind the goal follows the clattering of the metal upright and bristle of the nest bustle. That gives the away side an unassailable 4-0 lead before a few changes are made to rest up their young stars legs, a late rally provides a couple of chances for Newcastle and they do get one back with a bit of persistence from substitute Joe Bryson who's set free down the left, but Dudu gets his hat trick late on to crown a five star performance by the Portuguese boys in red. It's been very easy as their technical excellence and team ethic is far superior of that of their hosts. The Stars Dudu is a leggy left sider that likes to cut in and shoot, his rangy running at defenders and technical ability means he's a constant menace for opposition full backs to contain and he looked to be the forward most likely to open the deadlock before he did, going on to score a hat-trick shows you what a good player he is. I really like Moreira, diminutive (I tried to avoid that word) but he's 5ft5 with nothing on him, wizardry with the ball at his feet though and his goal, the goal of the game was after a jinking run and fine finish. Moreira is allowed to play in that ten role in midfield without the shackles, because behind him, Benfica have two enforcers, very good in the central area, Freitas and Quintas both neat on the ball, easy on the eye, with physical presence, this young Benfica side looks to have a lot of future stars. One of those stars I have seen previously play for Portugal U19's. Goncalo Oliveira is captain, centre half, he looks unfit, out of shape, not particularly tall for a defender around 6ft, I get the feeling he doesn't like running, but he's aerially brilliant, has a lovely left peg, is completely committed. a bit of old skool mentality and I really want to see how he progresses. A couple more players I'll be keeping an eye on, centre forward Francisco Silva (nicknamed Souza) with his bleach blonde hair looked to have a lot of modern day 'number nine' style qualities in his locker, whilst seventeen year old Jaden Umeh, an Irish boy, signed from Cork City, he's absolutely huge, technical and powerful, he came on late on, played left side of a front three. Whilst this was a bit of a one sided event, Newcastle did have one or two who looked like they can play. Defensively they were too easily done but their captain and right back Leo Shahar was committed, as was Logan Watts on the left side of centre half, he's big and solid and had a good battle with Benfica forward Souza. In midfield, Anthony Munda for me, looked head and shoulders the Magpies best player. Calm, physical, good safe distribution, he played with intelligence and despite the big loss, had a very good game. Out left, Seung-soo Park, the youngest player ever to score in professional Korean football, looked brilliant in the first half, rapid he drove at defenders and made things happen, but lost his way in the second half, so badly, at one point he attempted to pass back to the keeper and gave away a corner. His replacement, Alfie Seldon, just 16 years old, came on late on, looked game and battled well, his running contributing to Newcastle's goal which was scored by another sub in Joe Brayson. The Verdict Newcastle United's first team would go on to blitz Benfica 3-0 in the Champions League later in the evening, it really is interesting, and slightly depressing, that at youth level, progressing players through their ranks, Benfica have the pick of Portugal, and through their academy produce some of the top teen talent in world football, which will inevitably one day, be pinched, poached, signed all be it for big money, by big Premier League clubs and alike, perhaps even Newcastle will simply steal some stars away from la luz, which is detriment to their own academy system, which is why in a way, you wonder, do clubs like Newcastle, with money made from the Premier League, actually need an academy? We've seen plenty of success stories (plus PSR income) to suggest it is certainly worth Premier League clubs investing in their academies, Newcastle United in recent years have done well, with the likes Elliot Anderson, the Longstaff's and Miley's, long before that we remember a certain sensation with the nickname of 'Gazza' and what better way to highlight your clubs great work in the community, by bringing home grown talent through. The Teams Newcastle United: George Mair, Leo Shahar, Henry Johnson, Logan Watts, Dylan Charlton, Anthony Munda, Sean Neave (Baran Yildiz 87), Scott Bailey (Rory Finneran 61), Adedamola Alabi (Mohamed Waddani 71), Kacey Wooster (Joe Brayson 61), Seung-soo Park (Alfie Seldon 61). Benfica: Diogo Ferreira, Daniel Banjaqui (Duarte Soares 80), Rui Silva, Goncalo Oliveira, Jose Neto, Rafael Quintas (Miguel Figueiredo 71), Tiago Freitas, Goncalo Moreira (Gil Neves 80), Coletta (Jaden Umah 71), Souza (Joao Afonso 87), Dudu. 2:00pm Kick Off. Tuesday 21st October 2025, Whitley Park, Newcastle-upon-Tyne (att 426).

Boston United 1-1 Scunthorpe United (National League) I've dropped the dog off at the mother-in-law's and am driving through Nottingham against traffic which is heading to the Forest and Chelsea game. Midday on a cool and cloudy October's Saturday, I'm heading again to Boston, but for a Lincolnshire derby against another side I know a bit about in Scunthorpe. Last season they were a division apart, but they did play each other the season before when Boston in the end gained promotion ahead of a much fancied Scunny team then under Jimmy Dean, around the same time of year late October, the two teams played out a competitive 1-1 draw on a foggy Halloweens night at the Jakemans. This season, Scunthorpe following their own promotion to the National League under Andy Butler, have gone well, with just one defeat so far, whilst Boston who survived relegation after their great escape during the last campaign, have continued their own good form, after a poor start they are unbeaten in four in the league and have begun to pull themselves away from the danger zone, as opposed to this time last year when they were in serious trouble at the foot of the division. I'm at the Shell Garage at Bingham roundabout where I fill up and grab a meal deal before taking the A52 east. As I head through Grantham towards Boston I've got the radio on, the Forest match in full flow, the game reaching half time goalless as I pull up a short walk away from the ground. The Venue A few more parked cars than usual, a bigger crowd is expected today with the Scunthorpe following filling their away end. I'm walking over a busy A16 and into the stadium complex, as I overhear one Scunny fan say to another "they still haven't finished that fourth stand". The last piece to the Jakemans jigsaw is scheduled for completion next year. Not only will a small stand be added behind the goal to complete their grey and gold modern looking bowl, there's supposed to be a leisure centre attached behind with gym and badminton courts so plenty to look forward to once it's complete. I'm heading for the glass doors of the yellow painted ticket office in the centre of the main stand where I sign myself in for my pass, no sooner have I walked through the turnstiles and into the clubs concourse do I notice Chelsea have scored at the City Ground. Goals replayed on the flat screen TV up high on the wall and under the stand. After grabbing a cup of tea and a kit-kat, I turn around and Chelsea score again. I watch no more of my team getting battered, on the presumption Forest have now lost, saying aloud as I walk by a couple of fans in bobble hats eating burgers "that's Ange sacked then". Outside in happier times I'm met by a scout from Grimsby and one from Scunny who goes home and away wherever his team play. Radio Lincs behind me, Radio Humberside besides me, I'm checking my WhatsApp group of Forest chat to hear no sooner have Chelsea scored a third, and the early kick off game has ended, Ange is already sacked and driving himself out of the ground, a forgettable era lasting 39 days, 8 games and no victories. Statistically Forest's worst ever Manager. The Game Back here in Boston, the players are out ready for action and the match eventually kicks off after the referee keeps everyone waiting for the clock to strike three. You are expecting local derby fireworks but what you get are two teams finding each other out. Boston are fired up and defensively on point. Manager Graham Coughlan always seems to have his side well set when it comes to taking on those in the division of high attacking quality. Every time the ball goes near Cal Roberts young Will Lankshear at left back is snapping away at the winger. Every ball into centre forward Danny Whitehall has Connor Teale all over his back. It's unsettling for Scunthorpe. Boston's controlled defensive aggression has the visitors lacking ideas, not quite at the races, as the best chance goes to Kieran Donnelly who runs through one on one and forces a good save at the Iron door by Rory Watson. A hard shot aimed through the keepers legs is stopped by Watson's pair of knackers. The first half is scrappy, not much forward play of quality, the battle hardly helped by a niggly official in Matthew Scholes who seems to let some go, but picks up on other rather tedious technicalities where most Refs would simply say 'get on with it'. The Score You feel both sides are happy going into half time with a clean sheet, Scunthorpe because they haven't played well, Boston because they have contained one of the divisions top attacking teams. But as you expect more cagey quality in the second half, it's a player who's had a poor game, who makes a poor decision, who's error leads to the opening goal. Will Evans is a centre half I like for Scunthorpe, but he doesn't look at it today, caught out a couple of times in the first half, his heavy touch concedes a throw in on half way which is taken quickly by Boston, as Evans trudges back, Connelly races clear and shoots low to force a save from Watson which he largely makes a mess of down to his left, the ball falls kindly to Lenell John-Lewis who can't miss from a few yards out. That has the home fans singing "his name is a shop" as I say to the fella beside me "I've never been to Lenell's" and John-Lewis suddenly sparked into life is now causing havoc for Scunthorpe, running at defenders he crosses low which misses the toe of Connolly by an inch, centimetres away from putting the Pilgrims two up. Connolly then repays the favour as Boston boss their opponents as his low cross is drilled wide by the big striker, by now Will Evans has had enough, he's taken a knee, the physio is on, the sub board is out, he hobbles off and Scunthorpe make a switch. In fairness, the tactical tweak works in favour of the away side as Kian Scales enters the pitch at right back with Joe Starbuck switching to centre half, Scales has a lot of the ball and Scunthorpe attack with more balance as Boston retreat into defending their lead. It seems to be all going to plan as Boston bring on their own defensive reinforcements as Ben Grist replaces debutant Marcel Lavinier who's had a good game on the right of defence. A ball in from the opposite flank sees Grist grapple with Danny Whitehall, both players fall down and after a long look, the Referee awards a penalty, softly, harshly, Cal Roberts easily levelling from the spot. That sparks off a chorus of boos around the arena and every time a free kick is awarded thereafter, the Referee gets it, with cries of "you don't know what you're doing". He awards eleven minutes of injury time with both teams still going for it, in the end both running out of time to take a good solid point each, a derby day that has both teams clapped off for their hard working efforts. The Stars On a day where getting stuck in was more essential than showing off technical ability, it was the gritty guys who did best. The Boston back four, their midfield, a day for the likes of Greg Sloggett, never the easiest on the eye, with his funny looking running and leggy un-natural like technique but one who's like a rash on your back, itching away in attempt to win the ball. He's that player in the middle of the park who you think you've got away from, then out comes a leg, an arm, a head, and he's taken it away. Matty Carson and Liam Waldock doing the ugly stuff just as impressively. Will Lankshear up against Cal Roberts did really well to contain him, Connor Teale and Zak Mills no less than your standard 7 out of 10 each week, probably nearer deserving 8's today. For Scunthorpe, Kian Scales coming off the bench and putting in their best performance of the day, probably tells you what sort of day they had. I'm always impressed with the tenacity and technique of Oli Ewing in midfield, and Joe Rowley besides him did well, Cal Roberts improving the later the game went on, as opponents tired he looked to be more of a menace, floating in and around the eighteen yard box, always looking to get on that weapon of a left foot. The Verdict Two solid National League sides doing the county of Lincolnshire proud. I think Scunthorpe do have a chance of going up but with a couple of injuries their squad is now starting to thin, they'll probably need reinforcements if they are to continue their promotion push long into the new year, their bench looking a little light today without the likes of Tyrell Sellars-Fleming who I believe was out with a knock. As for Boston, without a couple of their own star forward players, they look in good hands under Graham Coughlan, will keep chipping away to score more points and should be ok by the season end. They look more and more disciplined each game I watch them, so when they have the likes of Frankie Maguire and Jacob Hazel back, they good be a team that surprises a few. The Teams Boston United: Rhys Lovett, Connor Teale, Zak Mills (Tommy Fogarty 77), Greg Sloggett, Dylan Hill, Kieren Donnelly, Lenell John-Lewis, Matty Carson (Rocco Coyle 86), Alex Lankshear, Liam Waldock, Marcel Lavinier (Ben Grist 73). Scunthorpe United: Rory Watson, Branden Horton, Jean Belehoan, Will Evans (Kian Scales 66), Declan Howe (Carlton Ubaezuono 66), Alfie Beestin, Danny Whitehall (Joey Dawson 77), Cal Roberts, Joe Rowley, Oli Ewing, Joe Starbuck. 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 18th October 2025, Jakemans Stadium, Boston (att 2,866).

Leeds United U21 2-0 Athletic Bilbao u21  (Premier League International Cup Group Stages) I’ve got a bit of man flu. Just coughs and sneezes which I always seem to pick up around this time of year, but that won’t deter me from heading north today, to the city of York, and to watch a Premier League International Cup game between two young sides, Leeds United and Athletic Bilbao. Now, Athletic Club, have always fascinated me, they have a cantera policy (cantera meaning quarry in Spanish) where they ‘only’ produce players within their youth system, of Basque origin, meaning their pool of players is much ‘smaller’ than the traditional route taken by most clubs, but their allegiance to locality is long and loyal and I love, that the club have been in La Liga for 95 years, never relegated, with such strict coding on who and who not to sign, I find that admirable in such a competitive division of football they play in. Players coming through the Bilbao system will go from cadete to juvenil to B team and first team, making natural progression through the ages, and stars like Nico & Inaki Williams have done just that, others include Kepa Arrizabalaga, Aymeric Laporte, Bournemouth Manager Andoni Iraola, and if you’re old like me, you’ll remember Aitor Karanka, Rafael Alkorta, Julen Guerro, Julio Salinas, even Spanish national team Manager, Luis de la Fuente came through the renowned Bilbao youth system. As for Leeds, well they have had a pretty good youth policy over history too. My dad tells me of the great side of the seventies under Don Revie, with Gary Sprake, Paul Reaney, Terry Cooper, Jack Charlton, Norman Hunter, Billy Bremner, Peter Lorimer, Paul Madeley, Eddie Gray, all players that went on to great things with Leeds, all coming up through the club’s youth ranks in the 60's. In fact, Eddie Gray has a long line of family history with Leeds United, his brother Frank also played for Leeds, who’s son Andy, played for Leeds, Eddie’s great nephew Archie started at Leeds, is now at Spurs, whilst his brother, who’s also Andy’s son, Harry, is currently at Leeds. There’s plenty more, Gary Speed, David Seaman, Denis Irwin, David Batty, Gary Kelly, Jonny Woodgate, Alan Smith, Kalvin Phillips, players many of them, who have gone on to play international football and have stellar careers at the highest level of the game. That’s why I love attending games like this. Knowing, that what you’re about to see, law of averages ensuring one or two will go on to become household names. Seeing them at seventeen and eighteen, wondering just how they might progress in the wider game. The Venue I’m up the road, the only annoying thing about these 7pm midweek kick off times is that you need to manoeuvre through the rush hour traffic at its worst, but out of Nottingham, eventually, I hit the M1, M18, A1 where it’s not been too bad, and get to the A64 with plenty of time to spare. It’s a long old loop road the A64, the LNER Community Stadium is over the far north east corner of town, but I can see the lights in the distance, before pulling up outside the Hollywood Bowl car park which completely covers the entirety of the football stadium behind, you wouldn’t even know it’s there. I’ve got 4 hours parking on non-matchdays, I presume today isn’t a matchday as York City aren’t playing? As I walk around the back of the stadium to figure out where the doors are, I do a complete clockwise circle of the place before realising had I gone anticlockwise I would already have been in my seat by now. “Ah noor, we’ve changed the entrance” says a young northern girl on the turnstiles as I tell her “I’ve been right around the houses here”. At one point I even walked through the adjacent Leisure Centre looking for a way in. Finally, though, inside where I ask the only kiosk open if they have any hot food. A meat and potato pie with a PG tips tea ordered, I take a walk to the colourful seating section where the players are out below, being put through their paces, the Basque boys doing a few kick ups, the Leeds lads plenty of running. It’s great inside this enclosed four sided arena. In fact, so great, I said that Boston United had the best stadium in the National League a couple of weeks back, I probably need to amend that, to say this place is better. Well unlike Boston it has four sides, at least, and inside it lights up like a Tardis, is very spacious and the pitch looks magnificent, glowing green with a hint of yellow from the shining lights above. The Game This is Leeds usual U19 side, and it seems to be a mix of Bilbao’s U17/U19’s and is most certainly not their B team who play in the Spanish third tier. The game kicks off with just a few hundred in attendance, a few pimps and agents, some families of young players, some screaming kids on a jolly up on row one, but fairly sparce with just one stand of four in use, the action is neat, tidy, typical academy stuff, Leeds in 4-3-3 have 37-year-old Jonny Howson playing centre back, he’s manager and doing a job on field which I presume is down to lack of resources, as Leeds have been struggling with central defenders to partner young sixteen-year-old Jacob Howard. Bilbao I’m having a good look at to see how their style contrasts with their English counterparts, also 4-3-3, whilst Leeds are pretty direct, aggressive, physical, they work hard, are snappy in the press and look to get the ball forward and attack. The Spaniards, sorry Basques, are a little less physical, more comfortable on the ball, they look to play at every opportunity, not always coming off, but they have some players who look really tidy when in possession, I like that they try and play and aren't afraid in any area to do so. That said, it’s a slow and largely underwhelming first half where not much happens, other than Leeds United striker Render racing through, he’s one on one with time to think but can’t finish past Gallastegi who holds firm, then the lively Harvey Vincent smashes a post when cutting in off the right, the rebound hitting Render and bouncing wide. The Score You feel the stronger team is Leeds, who have a bit more power and snap about them, but Bilbao are nice on the eye, they have players who try and play, and in right full back Urko Liceaga and in central midfielder Pablo Iturria they have two I really like. But it’s a lad of Leeds I like who starts a move on 57 which gets the games first goal which warms up the vocals of the home supporters, Alfie Cresswell wins the ball in midfield, he’s been doing the ugly stuff all evening, he plays it to Ollie Pickles who’s his trusted sidekick in midfield, and who’s been equally as impressive tonight. Pickles pulls back to Brockie who has his shot blocked, falling back to Cresswell who follows in nicely, on the up he guides his right boot towards ball which then floats at pace towards the right-hand side of the net. It’s a brilliant strike from a player who’s gritty, workmanlike, industrious, between Cresswell and Pickles the middle engine is really the heartbeat of this Leeds side, and in truth, they deserve their lead. That lead is doubled when substitute Logan White gets in on the act, he’s sent through by a brilliant Cresswell pass and races home with pace to calmly finish, a good nights work for Jonny Howson’s kids, the old boy by now is playing with swagger, leading by example, dropping shoulders and smashing sixty-yard cross field passes. "That's how you do it son". Late on, there’s an Athletic rally following a plethora of substitutes, they have a long range shot from Encinas and even have the ball in the net, bundled home from a ninetieth minute corner, but the flag is waved for offside, and Leeds United in all white, keep their clean sheet intact. The Stars From back to front there’s plenty of performances by Leeds players worthy of a mention, goalkeeper Ombang untroubled, largely, but everything he did, he did well. Full backs Douglas & Firth (sounds like a solicitors) both had snap and commitment, their sixteen year old centre back Howard, a big lad, did well, he will learn so much, just by playing next to Jonny Howson. In midfield, their Pickles/Cresswell partnership gelled brilliantly, Cresswell the one who’s probably more box to box, aggressive, looking to get forward, next to Pickles who sits, and can play a bit, keeping it more simple, whilst out wide I liked the ginger haired Harvey Vincent who ran his socks off until he got cramp, Devon Brockie, wearing ten, looks to be a good player. As for Bilbao, their number six Iturria, was the one who made them tick, he plays typical Spanish like Pedri, Xavi, central midfield, no matter who’s around him he can still get out of trouble with quick feet, a neat pass, good vision and tiki-taka DNA. Likewise, was their number eight Oihan Encinas who’s had Spanish U16 caps and played the central midfield role the Spanish way we love, but my most rounded footballer of the night was seventeen year old right back Urko Liceaga, he carried the ball forwards very progressively, tall and quick, like so many of the Bilbao players, very competent and controlled with the ball at his feet. The Verdict The Premier League International Cup is certainly a competition that works, for players progressing to their next levels, I would love to see more interest in it, getting a ticket is not always easy, hardly advertised, some clubs play at their Academies whilst others, like Leeds, will play 30 miles away, but for folk to come see the next generation, what better competition to do so? Southampton play Real Madrid’s youngsters in a couple of weeks, when ever else can Saints fans say they have seen los Blancos play at St Marys? The Teams Leeds United: Darryl Ombang, Connor Douglas, Jonny Howson, Jacob Howard, Will Firth, Ollie Pickles, Alfie Cresswell, Devon Brockie (Logan White 68), Harvey Vincent (Louie Whitehead 90), Jacob Render (Louie Dudley 83), Josh McDonald. Athletic Bilbao: Zugatz Gallastegi, Urko Liceaga (Adrian Alvarez 80), Pablo Martinez, Alex Carril, Ilyas El Arbaoui, Pablo Iturria (Enzo Alexis 80), Oihan Encinas, Xantiago Oyharcabal, Benat Garcia, Alain Cobos (Mikel Urrestarazu 58), Andres Bohorquez (Oier Cueva 70), Cobos Garcia (Unax Urzaiz 58). 7:00pm Kick Off. Wednesday 15th October 2025, York Community Stadium, York (att 200 est).

Northern Ireland 2-0 Slovakia (World Cup Qualifiers) Day two of my road (and air) trip watching international football and it's Northern Ireland's turn as Michael O'Neill's men host Slovakia at Windsor Park. No sooner have I packed my bags and left Hampden, am I in the air, next morning bright and breezy landing at Belfast International after a short Easy Jet flight from Glasgow. It's 8am and I'm already in the Hertz queue for a hire car, I can't check in to my B&B until 1pm so have an idea to head up to the Giants Causeway, I must have been to Ireland over twenty times previously but have never been to see its most famed tourist attraction on the windy north coast, so with time head up and pay £10 to park at the Causeway Hotel next to the Visitor Centre, but with that you get a pot of tea and scone to also enjoy. It's cold, it's wet, with waves I've never seen as high it's worth a visit, and after a short drive around Portrush (just to get a view of the stunning golf course) I head back for an afternoon nap and take aim with the early evening rush hour traffic to get to the stadium within good time (after a quick Costa coffee near the ground). Slovakia are currently top of the group after beating Germany in the opening round of fixtures. A 2-0 win with goals from Atletico Madrid's Hancko and Middlesbrough's Strelec (which I'm told means Sagittarius in Slovakian) was backed up by a 1-0 victory in Luxembourg, not quite as convincing as their result against the four time world champions, they relied on a 90th minute winner after their hosts had an earlier goal ruled out by VAR. As for Northern Ireland. They were more convincing in seeing off Luxembourg 3-1 before a same score reverse saw them beaten by the Germans. A result tonight will keep things interesting as they look to reach the World Cup Finals for the first time since 1986. The Venue I've parked up the hire car outside someone's terraced house on Ebor Drive. There's no parking restrictions around the streets surrounding the ground so people take matters into their own hands by leaving cones out to warn match goers away. Only a short walk, I'm through the gates and heading towards the media door where I'm given my UEFA lanyard. A quick cup of tea in the press lounge I'm up in the lift to the third floor, the top tier of the South Stand where the TV and press desks are a plenty. The view is good, on top of the action, intimate but modern is the venue three sides wrapping around as one, opposite the old North Stand two tiered sprinkled with green white and blue seats. The Game It's sparse inside the arena until a few minutes before the match but the venue kicks into life as local boxer and newly crowned World Champion Lewis Crocker parades his IBF Welterweight belt, he actually won it a few weeks back in the very stadium against a Southern Irish fighter in Paddy Donovan. The two anthems are belted out, God Save the King is sung better here than it is in England, as the game gets underway the temperature rises in the noisy but small stadium of just under 20,000, the hosts on the front foot well backed by a vocal support. Slovakia have a few hundred fans in one corner but their team can't get going, it's an unspectacular 4-3-3 they are playing and they struggle getting their attacking trio on the ball. The Irish are snapping away, led by Captain Connor Bradley who is brilliant. The Liverpool right back sees things quicker than anyone else, anticipates, reads things, but has real ability too. He's linking up with Swansea City's Ethan Galbraith who's a fantastic little footballer, all the danger is on this near side and when Galbraith is played in by Bradley, he cuts back and Hrosovsky gets himself in an awful mess to put through his own goal after 18 minutes. It could be worse. Northern Ireland's left side is equally dangerous with more talented youngsters in Isaac Price and Justin Devenny linking well together. Devenny has already had a sniff before stinging the palms of Dubravka who dives to his right to push an effort behind for a corner, then when Jamie Reid finds the ball falling into his path the Stevenage striker should do better. A mazy run by Shea Charles who's also having a belting game, ends up with the ball ricocheting to Reid who blasts over when it looked odds on he would score Northern Ireland's second. The Score You feel that might be a chance that the hosts rue and when Reid leaves out a foot to touch home a Shea Charles effort into the net, a linesman's flag is raised for offside and it's another one gone begging for the home side who are on top. Slovakia take that as warning too, and after a few subs are made by their Italian coach Francesco Calzona, they finally pick up the pace as the game opens up. Strelec is sent through one on one but can't guide his effort on target, a huge let off for Northern Ireland who despite giving that opportunity away, have been so dominant all night. But with less than ten minutes left, that dominance is doubled by advantage. Martin Dubravka has been punching everything that comes near him, he does the same again and this time misjudges by fisting a cross straight to Trai Hume. The centre half is on the edge of the area and guides a volley back over Dubravka's head, it's a stunning finish with his weak foot and it has the Slovakian analytics team beside me up in arms fuming with their teams lacklustre performance. Suddenly the place is rocking. The noise created by this little nation, in this little ground, is absolutely huge. There's something about watching these smaller countries who actually enjoy winning games of football against other nations, you don't get that as an England fan. It's our entitlement, we feel we should beat everyone, and when we do, it's usually relief, but Northern Ireland beating Slovakia, and last night Scotland beating Greece, it's celebrated with joy regardless of performance. That's what football should be all about! The Stars Connor Bradley was brilliant. As a right back, whenever I've seen him play for Northern Ireland, I've seen no better player on the park. He went off late on to a standing ovation, was the best player on the pitch, the biggest forward threat, and surely it's time Arne Slot at Liverpool put more faith in him? Besides Bradley, Galbraith linked up really well with him, small in size he gets around the pitch, plays it neat, forward, simple, he has good feet and makes good decisions in the midfield. Isaac Price is another player I like, he was relatively quiet but he's a player who has swagger, he glides when carrying the ball and did a couple of things which had the fans up on their feet. A mention on Justin Devenny who's a Crystal Palace player who played left wing back, again exceptionally talented, I really feel that behind England, this squad is perhaps the best of the other home nations with so much young talent coming through. Another youngster, Shea Charles was classy, the back three solid, Dan Ballard, Trai Hume and Paddy McNair all having Sunderland connection, all understanding each others game. As for Slovakia, well not a night that they'll want to remember. I spoke to their analyst after and was told 'we always struggle against organised sides'. I told him 'Northern Ireland simply wanted it more' which was the huge difference on the night, but in player power, I think Slovakia carried a couple, which was not ideal. PSV teenager Leo Sauer had a tricky night up against Connor Bradley, whilst the likes of Schranz and Bero offered little in attack. Captain Milan Skriniar looks the only world class player they have, but in Satka next to him at centre half, and in Obert at left back, they have good defensive footballers who should be more than competent at the level. Despite his own goal, Hrosovsky in the centre of midfield worked hard, next to Ondrej Duda, who has Premier League experience, he looked the best player in white, on the night, he as always giving plenty of effort with a touch of quality. There were glimpses of talent when Strelec got the ball, he drives forwards well and prefers to pick things up deeper, more of a ten playing nine. Whilst had they started Lukas Haraslin in attack, things might have been different. He was busy after coming off the bench, Stoke City's Tomas Rigo also improved things when he came on in midfield. The Verdict As I told the Slovakian analyst after the match. "It's all to play for now". In a funny way, this loss doesn't change much, as Slovakia have already beaten Germany, and I doubt that Northern Ireland can do that. But if Michael O'Neill's men can get a result on Monday night, they'll be huge favourites to finish in the top two, my money is on the 14th November though and the return match between these two nations, to sort out who will join Germany with a shot at making the cut, for Europe's representatives in the next World Cup. The Teams Northern Ireland: Bailey Peacock-Farrell, Daniel Ballard, Paddy McNair, Trai Hume, Connor Bradley (Josh Magennis 90), Ethan Galbraith (Brodie Spencer 85), Shai Charles, Ali McCann, Justin Devenny, Isaac Price, Jamie Reid (Dion Charles 71). Slovakia: Martin Dubravka, Norbert Gyomber, Lubomir Satka, Milan Skriniar, Adam Obert, Matus Bero, Patrik Hrosovsky (Laszlo Benes 89), Ondrej Duda (Tomas Rigo 63), Ivan Schranz (Lukas Haraslin 63), David Strelec (Samuel Mraz 89), Leo Sauer (Lubomir Tupta 82). 7:45pm Kick Off. Friday 10th October 2025, Windsor Park, Belfast (att 18,109).

Scotland 2-1 Belarus (World Cup Qualifiers) I'm rounding off a trip to Scotland and Ireland to Scotland and back, a busy four days of football comes to a close with Scotland v Belarus in this World Cup qualifying group C game. Up early, my flight from Belfast to Glasgow is scheduled for 7am, so I'm at the airport for five and back in mainland Britain for 8. I've an hour or two to kill as I've booked a stadium tour at Ibrox, the home of Glasgow Rangers, after a dine in McDonalds breakfast in Govan. The tour is brilliant, I really love the stadium and the Main Stand of Ibrox, which in particular is probably my favourite in the whole of football, these days named after Bill Struth, the clubs most successful ever manager, designed originally by Archibald Leitch, it houses the famous blue room, the stunning wood panelled changing rooms and the gleaming trophy room. I've been to Rangers on a couple of occasions but to get to walk around this historical football home and those usually off limits areas is at times breath taking, a club with so much rich history. History is something Scotland are wanting to make this year. Their Manager Steve Clarke is already making history having managed more games than anyone else at national level. His 72nd match today beats that of Craig Brown. Next step is for Clarke and co to make the World Cup finals like Brown did, for the first time since 1998. Belarus were only six years old when Scotland last played in the World Cup finals, having parted from the break up of the former Soviet Union in 1992 they have never reached tournament finals in either World Cup or Euros, and don't look like they'll be going anywhere soon, they were beaten heavily by Denmark, 6-0 last time out, bottom of their qualifying group with no points from three games, it should be a pushover, but then this is Scotland, who don't do things easily. Sitting second in the group behind the Danes, Steve Clarke's side do have a great chance of qualification having beaten Greece last time out. They'll be looking to back up that result with another win today, and take more steps towards target of getting the Tartan Army nearer to stamping their ESTA & visas for North America. The Venue I've arrived in good time and parked on Curtis Avenue, a housing estate which offers me a good exit strategy south as I head straight back to England after finish. A ten minute walk to the ground there's ample foot traffic a couple of hours before kick off as I walk through the media entrance next to the main doors of this great old stadium, I've got plenty of time so take a pew in the press lounge and have some chilli whilst overhearing a few local journalists talk about the latest breaking news, why Steven Gerrard has turned down managing Rangers. They seem to have no idea why he refused to re-join the club where he won his only league title back in 2021, but word is it might be down to a pending huge tax bill from terminating his time in Saudi, payable should he take another job this year after leaving Al-Ettifaq in January. The chilli was lovely, I'm fed and oiled but it's repeating a little as I head up the stairs, by taking the lift, to the top tier and the TV gantry where everything is still quiet a good 90 minutes before kick off. I get Deja vu opening the doors out to the playing surface down below, grey skies, green pasture, faded red and blue seating wrapping around the dark curve roofed bowl. I like that you can see the houses on the hill in the distance above the roof, they look taller than the stadium but I can assure you they're not. The Game I'm joined by the same Scottish scout as Thursday, minus the girlfriend today, he's brought a book for this game to write down some notes, as well as an iPad, he's a lovely fella, quite flamboyant looking with bleach blonde hair and stylish clobber, he really knows his Scottish football and even joins in with the national anthem which is sung brilliantly as always, spine tingling as I listen in awe (why can't England have something good like this). The action begins in front of a full house, Scotland having made a few changes for this one, some enforced, some tactical, are similar shape to Thursday's win against Greece, 4-2-3-1 (or 4-4-1-1) with McTominay the central playmaker behind Che Adams who gets the nod up top ahead of Lyndon Dykes. It's lively as Belarus knock it about with confidence, they look much better than a wooden spoon side who are here to make the numbers, their 4-4-1-1 (or 4-2-3-1 formation when attacking) is fluid as number ten Valeriy Gromyko pulls strings, and they forge a couple of half sniffs as Scotland don't look at it, they beat Greece not playing well on Thursday and haven't started great against a side with the shackles off, in Barkovskiy playing centre forward and Malashevich on the right flank, they have legs and pace and a bit of fluidity to their attack. That said, they have limited skill set and it's young Ben Gannon-Doak causing their left back Zabelin big issues. The pacey Scottish teen is frighteningly quick and Zabelin backs off. Every time Doak gets the ball people stand and roar 'run' as he sprints down the by-line, but his end product isn't all that, he seems to lack the calmness in decision making after beating his man, which leads to a couple of frustrating outcomes. One player in the side for his football IQ however is Jack Hendry, a centre half who can pass, he's in for the rugged Grant Hanley who can't, Steve Clarke expecting Scotland to have more of the ball today, and it's Hendry who opens up the Belarus defence with a pass to Che Adams, he turns and spins and shoots hard and low home, celebrations immediately muted as the flag goes up, but Adams is onside, and after a long annoying wait the goal is given. That settles the nerves for the Scottish who improve during a first half where the visitors have as much of the ball, and as many chances, but it's all about getting the job done, and importantly, Scotland go into half time, with the lead. The Score And if the first half went by with limited incident, the second half was packed with drama, Scotland forcing a long VAR penalty check which looks a shoe in, before eventually video footage reveals an earlier hand ball by Che Adams, who looked to have been fouled inside the area. That led to a chorus of boos and suddenly, against the run of play, Scotland switch off, lose focus, a low cross from the left finds Malashevich who finishes calmly to silence the home support, Belarus level, but a compulsory video check found that McTominay had been fouled, it was the softest of challenges on him, but when slowed down to freeze frame it looked more cynical. We have monitors in front of us to suggest the goal will be chalked off. A huge let off for Scotland. It's a nervy time as they fend off the Belarusian attack, but Scotland create their own moments, eventually taking one, Che Adams getting on the end of a right wing cross, but this time the flag is quickly up, more obvious, although the wait, is still over bearing, too long and anxious for supporters to take, offside the call, eventually, but Scotland keep plugging away, and do get a second, Andy Robertson who's been his usual brilliant self, he crosses low for McTominay, who slides home from close range, even he can't be bothered to celebrate (probably half expecting VAR to get involved), but it's a huge goal to cement Scotland's victory, but there's another twist late on. This is Scotland, after all. A neat move finds two substitutes combining, Korzun passing to Kuchko who has too much time and space, he takes a touch inside the area unmarked, and finishes low to ensure a few nervy added minutes, but Scotland see it through, unconvincingly, the fans immediately on whistle head for the exits, no big cheers, some boos, many unimpressed, most just relieved they got through the game with a hugely vital win. The Stars I was probably impressed more with the Belarus players having half expected them to be much worse than they were. Solid competitors like Pechenin and Ebong in midfield, allowing those in attack with more flow, like Gromyko, Malashevich and Barkovskiy to get on the ball. Valeriy Gromyko in particular was my favourite, the 28 year old bearded playmaker plays for Kairat Almaty in Kazakhstan and has some elegance wearing number ten, he hardly gave a pass away, mostly forward thinking and inventive, towards the likes of Malashevich who was busy on the right wing, and Barkovskiy who played as the central striker, but often hovered towards the left. For Scotland, usual pretenders, Andy Robertson, Billy Gilmour, John McGinn, did well, whilst Scott McTominay was improved from a quieter match against Greece. Che Adams winning the PA announced man of the match, he worked hard as he always does, but their out ball was often to Ben Gannon-Doak, who has unbelievable pace, but when he gets in those areas where he needs to make good decisions, he sometimes lacks the finesse of thinking, if he improves on that, he could be a huge star in the making. The Verdict That win after Denmark beat Greece later in the evening, ensures Scotland cannot finish lower than second, which guarantees a place in the playoffs at least, and they have a real chance now of making their first World Cup finals in 28 years. Not entirely firing on all cylinders, I'm told by the scout I'm sat with that Steve Clarke's pragmatic approach will never make watching Scotland easy on the eye, but winning games is what matters, and finding a way is key, they now have a real chance and in a funny way, they'll probably prefer it as the underdog, if they do manage to qualify, I can 100% guarantee that it won't be by doing it easily. The Teams Scotland: Angus Gunn, Anthony Ralston (Kieran Tierney 72), Jack Hendry (John Souttar 72), Scott McKenna, Andy Robertson, Kenny McLean, Billy Gilmour (Lennon Miller 88), Ben Doak-Gannon (Kieron Bowie 90), Scott McTominay, John McGinn, Che Adams (Lyndon Dykes 88). Belarus: Fedor Lapoukhov, Vadin Pigas (Trofim Melnichenko 56), Egor Parkhomenko (Nikita Demchenko 90), Aleksandr Martynovich, Pavel Zabelin, Evgeniy Malashevich (Gleb Kuchko 83), Maks Ebong, Evgeniy Yablonskiy (Sergey Karplovich 90), Kiril Pechenin, Valeriy Gromyko (Nikita Korzun 83), German Barkovskiy. 5:00pm Kick Off. Sunday 12th October 2025, Hampden Park, Glasgow (att 49,346).

Ballymena United 1-3 Coleraine (NIFL Premiership) It's my day off today. I've an early flight back to Glasgow tomorrow but I've done all the touristy things in Northern Ireland over my recent annual visits, so rather than sit in my B&B all day watching Homes under the Hammer, I'm off to find a match, and something to do. Ballymena verses Coleraine intrigues me mostly. Firstly, I've always been intrigued by the name Ballymena, ever since getting a Nigel Worthington Panini sticker back in the day, and finding out he was born there. Secondly, Lincoln City have a young loanee in Zane Okoro at Coleraine, who also have a goalkeeper on loan from Newcastle United in Aidan Harris, whilst the Braidmen (Bally's nickname) have an 18 year old defensive midfielder in James Hood, who's doing good things. So with a ticket purchased online I jump in the hire car and as I drive from my digs through Antrim and up the A26 towards the Ballymena Showgrounds I notice a huge sign which says 'City of the Seven Towers'. Lying 30 miles north west of Belfast, Ballymena's historical original towers included the Old Town Hall, Braidwater Mill, St Patrick's Church, Ballymena Castle (now demolished), the First Ballymena Presbyterian Church, the Old Parish Church and All Saints Catholic Church. Liam Neeson is born in the city of around 31,000 people, it's the seventh largest town in Northern Ireland and its name 'Baile Meánach' means 'the middle townland' in Irish. History lesson over, I've arrived at a quiet street nearby where parking is plentiful, chimney smoke in the air, it's a grey and cloudy day and a cool chill brings some nip, I'm making the final walk over the last few yards towards a ground that until 2019 held Stock Car Racing, some Milk Cup ties in Junior Football and a few Irish Cup finals have also been played here over the years, it also has an annual agricultural show here I believe. The Venue As I turn the final corner past a couple of stewards into the Showgrounds spacious complex I notice an amateur match played on a 4g caged pitch outside the main stadium, there's another game on a second pitch nearby, a friendly stewards says 'hello' and tells me there's five games being played around here today, plus the derby. He tells me "they're queuing up at the turnstiles already to get in, it's going to be full, so you best get a seat and stay in it." I didn't even realise the magnitude of this local'ish' tie such bad is my Northern Irish league football knowledge, but as I enter the stadium concourse, I soon get that feeling of excitement and anticipation within those queuing for the coffee bars and burger trucks. It's a two sided venue, two nice sky blue seated stands opposite each other, a bowl like shape perimeter which looks a bit too dangerous and narrow for stock cars, fluffy green surface in the middle, the place reminds me somewhat of an old stomping ground at Grantham Town, you're a little closer to the action where that place has a running track, but looks are similar, the home fans seated in the South Stand, the away section over in the North, it's relatively cosy with a back drop of trees and housing but no spectator areas behind either goal. The Game The crowd has really built up as I sit seven or eight rows high, with people filling in the spaces either side, above and below me. It looks quite a following from Coleraine too who's fans drape a banner stating 'formed in 1927' as the two teams come out. And no sooner have they put it down to get ready for kick off, do their side take the lead. A timely run by Will Patching has the box to box midfielder loft home and past the bald headed Shane O'Neill. There's not even a minute played on the clock. I was expecting to see something exciting from Ballymena's teen midfielder James Hood, as the announcer called his name in the starting eleven ahead of kick off, he followed up with saying 'he's one of our own' but although looking neat on the ball early doors, he's struggling against a side that is very good, Coleraine are organised and up for it, but they look like they have a lot more than Ballymena in attack, players who can play and make things happen, like former Linfield playmaker Joel Cooper who carries the ball forwards by dribbling past opponents with his low centre of gravity. Jamie Glackin is another who catches my eye, hair in a bun, lovely technical footballer with elegance, Will Patching who used to play for Notts County, offers legs in midfield, young Okoro some pace on the right, whilst knitting it together is number four Dylan Boyle, who used to play for Ballymena. As the home side defend another attack, James Hood stretches for the ball and does something to his back, he's in pain, and although he tries to carry on, lasts just a few more minutes before a substitute is made, shortly after, Coleraine make it two, Matthew Shevlin, who's been a handful as the lone front man, he brings the ball down and spins, shooting low with too much time inside the area, a well taken finish which begins a massive exodus for the toilets and tea bars ahead of half time. The Score It's been men against boys I feel as the visitors pass and move with purpose, they do things quickly, with intent, and have some style and grace in doing so. There's a couple of fellas sat below me, who arrived late, just as the first goal went in. They sodded off 'for a smoke' when the second goal was scored ahead of half time and have just come back a minute or two into the second half, just as the ball hits the back of the net again. Shevlin again with space, inside the area drills low, to make it three. It's all too easy. That frees up a few spaces around me as some fans have seen enough, but Ballymena respond after Success Edogun comes on. He's a bit of a throw back striker. Reminds me of John Fashanu, he's big but quick and direct and gets the fans off their seats, which is exactly what is needed in this home end I'm sitting in. Ballymena do get a goal back when Ben Kennedy bundles one in, he's been one of the few home players who's put himself about a bit, but Coleraine have too much, as their fans find out that Glentoran are losing, you can hear them singing "We are top of the league". The last half hour is bitty and scrappy, Ballymena show resilience but it's all too late. Coleraine play out the game whilst offering a few sniffs to their hosts, but as the whistle goes they've been more than good value for all three points. The Stars Coleraine are excellent and it feels like it wasn't just because they were at it on the day, but because they actually have a really good team. 18 year old goalkeeper Aidan Harris from Newcastle gave assurance, some wild kicking but mostly a calm and collected keeper in the making. In defence, I liked right back Rowan McDonald, only 23, he started his career at Manchester City, comfortable on the ball, assured, their skipper Kodi Lyons-Foster likewise, neat in possession, reads the game well, he earned himself a card for having a kick out at Ballymena's Joel Thompson before coming off at half time, but the former Aldershot man is a Rolls Royce for this level. Another decent defender is left back Levi Ives who I previously seen play in the Champions League for Larne. Gutsy and committed, he took the armband when Lyons-Foster went off. In midfield, they have a bit of everything, Dylan Boyle, still only 23, just sat and gave it all simple, small and gritty in the anchor role. That allowed players like Joel Cooper and Jamie Glackin to get on the ball. Cooper is an Irish league cult hero, been there, done it, he's still doing it after a decent career at Linfield. Glackin I liked, not just for his silky smooth touches, he tried an elegant chip that went just over the bar, played most of his passes with the outside of his foot, but in the last minute chased down Success Edogun to win back the ball brilliantly, before bursting into not one, but two cheers in front of his away following, which really got the blood flowing. Without really being able to mention a star of Ballymena, other than Success, who off the bench was a powerhouse during an otherwise failing afternoon, I would like to see a bit more of James Hook, who went off injured. Another player I would like to see more of, is Zane Okoro of Coleraine who's on loan from Lincoln City. He has good attributes, technique, speed, a decent burst and makes good decisions from a wide position, but I wanted him to do more. Just 18, maybe he'll learn from some very good players that he's now regularly playing alongside. The Verdict As Glentoran lost 3-1 to Dungannon Swifts, Coleraine's win in the A26 derby takes them top of the Irish Premiership. Will they stay there? Well Linfield and Larne might be two other teams who have a big say on that. As for Ballymena, I got back to my digs and was told by my B&B host that he thinks they're having a good season. And they are. Currently fifth in the table, I think if they stay there, they would be more than happy with that. I've not seen everyone in the division, but they aren't a bad team at all, just not, unfortunately, at the levels, of their foes from 27 miles north in Coleraine. The Teams Ballymena United: Sean O'Neill, Kym Nelson, David Toure, Ben Kennedy, Stephen O'Donnell, Matthew Clarke, Calvin McCurry (Dair O'Conchubhair 75), Joel Thompson (Success Edogun 52), Ryan McNickle (Jack O'Reilly 75 (Daithi Mccallion 90)), Kian Corbally, James Hood (Danny Lafferty 28). Coleraine: Aidan Harris, Dylan Boyle, Joel Cooper, Jamie Glackin, Levi Ives, Dean Jarvis, Kodi Lyons-Foster (Charles Dunne 46), Rowan McDonald (Cameron Stewart 56), Zane Okoro (Declan McManus 86), Will Patching (Adam Long 63), Matthew Shevlin. 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 11th October 2025, Ballymena Showgrounds, Ballymena (att 2,000).