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King’s Lynn Town 2-1 Bradford Park Avenue (National League North) I’m doing my pre-match research on the morning of the game and it’s not until I notice on Twitter that @BPAFCOfficial only yesterday placed a ‘this day then’ post with an 8-2 FA Cup (second leg) thumping of Manchester City back in 1946, which had me think, just how bloody good Bradford Park Avenue once were. I’m on the fabulous but basic looking fchd.info website as I scroll through the seasons of BPA, a top flight football league club either side of world war one, for many years a second tier team and one only ‘voted out’ of the Football League in 1970 after three successive bottom placed division four finishes. They have reached the quarter-finals of the FA Cup three times and took 8,000 to Maine Road that January in 1946 for their fourth round success, eventually being knocked out by Birmingham City in the last eight, it was also news to me that for one season only, up until the semi-finals, the FA Cup was a two leg affair. More news, just in, (although this one's a hundred-year-old story), Bradford (Park Avenue) is the correct spelling of the football club, who’s use of closed brackets was originally derived by the media to avoid confusion with Bradford City Football Club, who are more popularly known today as the city’s ‘elite’ soccer establishment. Bradford AFC were often referred to as (Park Avenue) due to their home ground at the time, the name sticking for so long that the use of (brackets) these days, are very rarely added. As for King’s Lynn Town, they established recently in 2010 after King’s Lynn FC wound up the year previous. The Linnets originally formed in 1881 playing at the fabulous Walks Stadium since day dot. It’s a 2-hour commute from Nottingham, I’m leaving just after 4pm with plenty of time as I stop off to get some petrol from the Shell services at Saxondale on the A52. A similar route that I take to Boston matches, I’m through Grantham heading East before joining the straight single carriageway A17, passing Holbeach and Benny’s Diner before coming to the Cross Keys Bridge over the perfectly channelled River Nene flowing into the Wash. It’s dark out, the roads are dull, straight and long, the fields either side flat, as I cross over the River Ouse and into King’s Lynn down the Wisbech Road, navigated onto the brilliantly named Vancouver Avenue I eventually come to the stadium all lit up, as route guidance states “You have reached your destination”. The Venue I’ve been here a couple of times previously, one story I never fail to tell folk when I mention King’s Lynn Town is the day, we took bottom of the table Hucknall Town to the Walks to beat then league leaders 4-2 in the Northern Premier League South Division back in December 2012. I had only been coaching at Hucknall for a couple of weeks and we’d just started to turn things around before they pulled the budget, that win ending the briefest of stays at the yellows before going onto Grantham Town where we had an equally decent record against the Linnets, it’s a stadium I’ve enjoyed, and wanted to re-visit for a while now, a good ten years since last coming to King's Lynn. Walking up towards the ground I’m heading for the ticket office at the base of the grandstand, a huge apex roofed traditional facility built in 1955 which is probably one of my favourites in football. I’m at the main door talking to an old boy about the effect the stand has on covering over half the pitch, which means in winter months the ground is often frozen due to two thirds of it being in the shade, last week’s league game against Fylde which I was supposed to attend, called off. They’re looking for my name on the guestlist but my names not down so I buy a standing only ticket, telling me I can still sit high up in the press area, the price is £17, quite steep for the level I think, Royal prices for a Royal town? We are after all, the closest football club to the Sandringham Estate. I’m in through the turnstile, ticket ripped off as I walk around the corner of the pitch, behind the goal for a Cornish pasty and cup of tea, £4 the damage although the girls maths isn’t great, she originally charges me £6 before she’s told by her peer that £2.50 plus £1.50 makes four. The ends behind the goal both open, to the right of the Tennyson Avenue terrace which I’m stood, a low roofed standing area, to the left of that, the huge grandstand which wouldn’t look out of place at a Greyhound Stadium. Off there next, I finish my pasty and with tea in hand take a walk up the steps to the top of the grandstand, the steel work under the roof is impressive, blue and yellow seats, it’s toasty up here, well lit, great view but for a couple of pillars in the way. After ten years since my last visit the Walks feels exactly the same as when I left it, the only noticeable difference a large bright scoreboard in the far corner of the ground, which I’m told has only been installed a few months. The Game King’s Lynn have the chance to go top of the table tonight with leaders AFC Fylde not playing, Bradford have been on a decent run since I last watched them at Banbury, they’ve lost just once in nine and have climbed out of the relegation zone, I think the winter months certainly suit their style of play, which is basic, analysed in-depth. There’s a problem on the side of the pitch as we await kick off, the Linnets Manager Tommy Widdrington is moaning to the Referee, the Geordie native not happy about something, it soon becomes apparent that he’s not happy about anything, very animated on the side-line, dressed in black trousers and long black coat, he screams for every decision with his assistant and ‘can’t believe’ it when it doesn’t go his way. It's a ding dong is the first 45, Bradford have no intention of playing any football, they just kick it as far away from their goal as possible, King’s Lynn neat on occasion especially when operating through their skipper Michael Clunan in midfield, don’t look like they want it as much as the away side who’ve probably been told by gaffer Mark Bower ‘they need to compete’ for everything, David verses Goliath, the Linnets think they can turn up and roll over the northerners with flicks and tricks, they’ve got another thing coming, Bradford with their ugly 3-5-2 are making it a frustrating evening for the home side, and their fans, who start to grumble from the stands. Paul Jones rushes out of his goal as a Bradford player tries to cheekily play it over him by shooting from the half way line, it goes out for a goal-kick but this calls for Linnets defender Josh Coulson to shout “this is shit, every one of us needs to step it up”. That might have sparked a little reaction, Jordan Portecilli has been threatening down the right, Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain teasing down the left, but too often the final pass lets Lynn down, Bradford pick up the pieces and whack it as far away as possible, I’ve never seen a ball hit so far and hard as when number three Reece Staunton gets it, every time it comes near him you hear a thudder, a whack, it’s gone. Nil nil at half time. The Score I’m chatting to a guy who works for Genius Sports at the break, he’s from Holbeach and usually covers matches for Peterborough United or Lincoln City which are his closest league clubs from this neck of the woods. I tell him “It’s a 4 hour round trip for me tonight” as he replies “everywhere is four hours” for him. As the second half starts it’s the away side that continue to look more game, there’s a shout for an offside but they’re through down the left, the ball is cut back by Brad Dokerty to Will Longbottom who smashes home from inside the area unmarked, it’s deserved and is a test of King’s Lynn’s credentials from here. But table topping teams aren’t such without reason, they immediately respond, Cosgrave from close range, the fans roar, the home team level, they’ve not played well, but they’re not yet beaten either. That goal takes a little stuffing out of Bradford although they immediately respond as Longbottom heads over, but the home side have rekindled their swagger, neat in midfield, tricky out wide, it’s Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain who cuts in from the left, shooting low a hard hit shot that slips under the Avenue keeper and into the far corner, more cheers erupt as the fans start to sing “we are top of the league”. The Stars It’s not a night in which I believe the home side have played well, but isn’t that the mark of a good team, when they win in such ugly and unconvincing manor, credit to Bradford who simply don’t allow the opposition to ‘perform’ by getting in their faces and making it a scrap. That said, some stand out performances particularly in the Linnets midfield, captain Michael Clunan is a neat number seven who see’s a pass before he gets the ball, ticking everything along at a fast pace, always showing for his team-mates, invariably not needing more than a touch, if it’s two it usually comes with a drop of the shoulder. 17 Aaron Jones likewise has swagger, Porticelli and Oxlade-Chamberlain more direct with pace, the Linnets neat and technical in the forward department, sometimes too over complicated, too tricky for their own good? They remind me of the side I saw ten years ago, which we often beat in fact, which had tricky wingers in Steve Spriggs, Jamie Thurlbourne and George Thomson, who went on to huge success and league football with Harrogate Town. They always seem to play the right way, the Walks pitch allows this, the supporters probably demand it, but it’s very pleasing on the eye, if sometimes annoying when it doesn’t always pay off. In opposition, Bradford can credit their guts and determination, if not totally be upbeat about their skillset. Shane Maroodza down the right at least attempts to take on a player, but other than that, the side lack interest in being ‘creative’. It’s hard to judge the ability of a player who shows no intention of playing football. The Verdict I might seem harsh on Bradford, but what identity they lack in individuality, they certainly make up for as a collective, off the ball well drilled, on it, their intentions are to get it forward quickly, that causes concern for opposition, who won’t like playing such a high intensity, basic, but well-drilled organised and ugly team. They’ll be ok, because they know how to scrap, whilst King’s Lynn shown qualities that they can fight too, whilst doing so, they did it with that bit more quality, which I suppose is the difference, seen in the league standings? Let's face it, King's Lynn is a trek for anyone but the ground itself, I think is well worthy a visit, if at least just once in your life. It might take a while to get here, but when arrived and perched up at this leafy quaint home of the Linnets, you'll reminisce near 150 years of memories, and that in itself, a worthy reason for any groundhopper to want to tick off such prestige football home. The Teams King's Lynn Town: Paul Jones, Aaron Jones, Tyler Denton, Adam Crowther, Josh Coulson, Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain (Theo Widdrington 72), Michael Clunan, Tai Fleming, Tom Hughes, Jordan Portecilli (Josh Barrett 61), Adam Cosgrave (Zain Walker 83). Bradford Park Avenue: George Sykes-Kenworthy, Lucas Odunston, Reece Staunton, Will Lancaster, Luca Havern, Sam Fielding, Shane Maroodza (Oli Johnson 75), Simon Richman, Brad Dokerty (Eddie Church 72), Jordan Preston (Jacob Blyth 15), Will Longbottom. 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 31st January 2023, The Walks Stadium, King's Lynn (att 957).

Kidderminster Harriers 3-0 Peterborough Sports (National League North) After missing out on non league day last weekend (due to international duty), I'm back to bread and butter today as I head off to Aggborough, home of Kidderminster Harriers who are currently the form team flying high in the National League North.   Kiddy are second behind Scunthorpe having won eight of their last nine league matches (drawing the other) as Phil Brown's side stamp their mark on a promotion race that looks to be going down to the wire.    Scunny last week beat another title rival Chester in front of over 8,000 fans at Glanford Park, a record for the sixth tier of English football, they are two points ahead of Kidderminster with only one automatic place for promotion into the National League next season, whoever finishes second will have to make do with the playoffs.   Peterborough Sports are mid table, nothing really for them to play for but pride and points for places, too far from the playoff race they ain't going down either, the Turbines player manager who plays today at centre half, Michael Gash, used to be a goalscoring striker for Kidderminster.   I'm out the door for midday, across the M42, M6 and M5 looping over Birmingham. The Worcestershire town famous for its textiles in years gone by is a bit of a long winded location to get to for me. An hour and half but ending with some country roads through pastures green, I'm through the stunning village of Belbroughton, then Harvington and Stone before finally reaching Hoo Road for little after 1:30pm, parking up about as near as I can get to the ground without having to pay, and without annoying the locals who have up blue 'no football parking' signs outside their houses. The Venue   I'm walking past the Kiddy Winks Day nursery who I think are missing a trick not opening their car park for a few quid. Into the courtyard of the Main Stand to realise it's ten to two and they haven't even opened the turnstiles yet.   There's catering trucks and cars for sale in the courtyard, a barista coffee station ahead of entrance, the doors finally open at 2pm and a small queue of fans head in, I follow with a scanned ticket the club sent me by email on Friday morning.   Inside it really is of League Two quality this place. Holding over 6,000 each stand is large, modern looking, equal in height and length. Two seated stands across the pitch, two standing at each end, the left side packed with home support ahead of kick off, singing and swaying like they would in the 1960s, the opposite side has just eighteen who made the trip from Peterborough.   The Game   Phil Brown's side take it to their opponents early doors. It's not pretty but both teams play with high intensity to get it away from their own goal as quickly as possible, to press and probe the opposition in their final third.   I've noticed Kiddy's eleven includes six 30 plus players today. One impressing is journeyman Tope Obadeyi who's resume has seventeen different clubs in 21 separate spells. He's been racing down the left like a young seventeen year old before he's found in the open by another thirty plus pro, David Worrall on loan from Barrow has an age to get a cross in from the right, he floats a lovely ball into the box and Tope can't miss.   That goal settles some nerves but it's hardly a classic, the home side grafting against a team that is gritty, but dangerous on the break. They have pace in Michael Gyasi and a few young loanees add dynamism, but Kidderminster's experience pulls through, they know the game, know the level, and are certainly a level above their opponents today.   The Score   At half time I'm sniffing and sneezing from a bit of hayfever I've picked up so make no attempts to talk with anyone as I'm not in the mood.   No changes at the break, it's more of the same as Kidderminster press with more of the ball, Peterborough look to break, on occasion Gyasi gets released, but it's the away team who fall into the trap of sending too many players forward. Gash wins a header on half way but Hemmings is quick to react, he finds Worrall who slides in Brown and with the Sports defenders trudging back windmill arms behind him, the Harriers midfielder breaks the lines to run in on goal and dink over the keeper.   Within a few minutes Brown adds a third after good work by Kouhyar, a good day for the leggy midfielder who stabs home his second of the match, a sixth of the season, he's played really well today. Kidderminster have played really well and cruise through the last twenty as a laid back looking Phil Brown often smiles with the fans who join in with the odd joke behind him.   The Stars   26-year old Zak Brown may have stole the show with his deep running from centre field but other top performers from the home side come largely from the 30 plus category, Amari Morgan-Smith won the sponsors man of the match to the applause of his manager upon announcement, he battled brilliantly with the Sports centre halves and won his fair share of flick-ons, put himself about and was a perfect target man for the Harriers runners. One of which, Ashley Hemmings did well in a neat role as number ten, elegantly strutting with the ball forwards, Tope Obadeyi down the left flying, on the right, from deep, David Worrall possessing a wand of a right foot, David Davis in front of the back line offering an experienced calm head. Defensively on occasion they were tested, but Christian Dibble's goal never breached, Reiss McNally at centre half was good next to Kyle Morrison, Caleb Richards at left back did well, whilst late on, Joe Foulkes returned after injury to come on off the bench, he's a right back I really like, still only 21 he still has time for a top career. As for Peterborough, well plenty of youngsters on loan who looked to have potential. The tall Jamie Pardington on loan from Lincoln City doing ok in goal, the pony-tailed Alfie Atherton on loan from Sheffield United working hard in midfield, whilst eighteen year old Sam Straughan-Brown with bright blonde hair had something about him, he took most of the set plays, looked decent on the ball and is currently on the books of Doncaster Rovers. In midfield, Hugh Alban-Jones is a neat footballer and one of my favourites in the Turbines team, whilst Michael Gyasi's game seems to have come in with experience, now 25 he's as quick as most but is starting to become more powerful with better hold up play, a striker for this level and perhaps above for a good few more years I bet. The Verdict I wondered if Kidderminster's veterans would have the legs to beat Peterborough, they proved it was easy enough, but do they have the legs to go the distance? I'm not sure of their balance, but I am sure they have a team playing for their Manager and in Phil Brown (and Neil McDonald) they are lead by two experienced task masters who have what it takes to take them back up to the next level, staying their would mean they need to invest in youth, even if they miss out on promotion this season, they may still have to invest in youth. Peterborough rely on those locally around them to help them out when needed, a good side with good players, a good management duo in Michael Gash and Luke Steele, but they are punching way above weight already with a thin squad, my concern is the loan market might not always pay dividends? They'll be ok this season, but will need to keep chopping and changing in the summer to just keep their head above water next, a thankless task for a small football club who's trying to mix it with the big boys. The Teams Kidderminster Harriers: Christian Dibble, Caleb Richards, Reiss McNally (Paul Downing 79), David Worrall (Joe Foulkes 72), Amari Morgan-Smith, Ashley Hemmings (Riley Reynolds 75), Zak Brown (Ben Beresford 79), Maz Kouhyar, Kyle Morrison, Tope Obadeyi, David Davis. Peterborough Sports: Jamie Pardington, Elliot Putman, Ryan Fryatt, Kaine Felix, Hugh Alban Jones (Ben Challinor 88), Alfie Atherton (Mark Jones 60), MJ Kamara (Jonas Mukuna 75), Michael Gyasi (Tyler Winters 88), Michael Gash, Matthew Bondswell (William Van Lier 61), Sam Straughan-Brown. 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 29th March 2025, Aggborough Stadium, Kidderminster (att 2,825).

England U19 1-0 Portugal U19 (UEFA European U19 Championships Qualifiers) It's the last time I'll be heading to Wales for a while, but I've enjoyed the last week of watching the next generation, it's now coming down to the final game and whoever wins between Portugal and England will go through to the U19 Euros finals tournament in Romania this summer, whilst England can also afford a draw having ramped up a better goal difference thus far. Portugal beat Wales 1-0 in their last match after drawing their Elite Round opener with Turkey 2-2. England opened up with a 2-0 win against the hosts Wales in Bangor before a scoreless draw at the weekend with the Turks has the two top teams in group 7 locked on four points.   I'm out the door mid afternoon to beat the usual M6 rush hour congestion, hitting the Welsh border town of Connah's Quay where I stop off for a Subway before I arrive at Deeside College as the two teams pull up in their identical buses just a few minutes apart. The Venue   It seems busy tonight as the college lecturers head off, some scouts already in the car park as the clouds cast over a bright sky with the floodlights already well lit.   I walk into the arena an hour before kick off before I realise I've left my glasses in the car, so ask the steward if I can make a U-turn ahead of them letting me back through a side gate.   Once inside I'm straight up to the back row of the single seated stand at the venue. Less than 500 seats in total I'm told, elevated with the changing facilities beneath, it offers a great view despite their being an athletics track around the pitch perimeter.   The pitch itself has had a good mow from the weekend, it wasn't in great nick for England v Turkey, it looks slightly better tonight although will be far from what these young boys are used to. England featuring a handful of Premier League regulars whilst Portugal's side include those of Porto, Benfica and Sporting academies amongst others.   The Game   I'm joined by a Manchester United scout who used to play for Forest, Craig Armstrong, who ironically lives not far from me, whilst an agent he knows, who looks after the likes of Kadan Young, in the squad tonight, as well as Brentford's Rico Henry and Jayden Meghoma, also introduces himself.   As the game begins it's a slow start as Portugal, as they have done all tournament, sit back out of possession whilst slowly keep the ball between themselves in it. England are 433 tonight with a midfield trio of Lewis Miley, Tyler Dibling and Chris Rigg offering plenty of experience.   Portugal's best player is Olivio Tome, but he takes a nasty fall on this poor surface just five minutes in, he's receiving treatment but comes back on, only for England to take the lead as Mikey Moore crosses low to Chris Rigg who bundles home from close range on eight.   That goal sees Tome exit and with it, Portugal's chances of scoring diminish, they're organised and solid but lack goal threat with Tome, without him they hardly stand a chance of netting the two they need to turn around the tie.   Speaking of organised and solid, England are just that, Zach Abbott and Josh Acheampong are a good blend as centre halves, Aston Villa's Triston Rowe is very good going forward from right back, Manchester City defender Stephen Mfuni a natural looking left sided centre half, playing left back with no intent to ever get forward.   It's an offset shape that allows Chris Rigg to vacate his left sided midfield position to come in field whilst leaving dynamic winger Tyreik George plenty of space for a one on one battle with his opposite number at right back, Mikey Moore and Dibling giving license to roam whilst Lewis Miley sits, Shumaira Mheuka battles up front on his own but looks to be the sort of player who wants to play off the shoulder, unfortunately tonight everything is played with his back to goal.   The Score   At half time I chat players with the agent sat in front of me before he waves the family of Kiano Dyer up, former Leicester City winger Lloyd Dyer is here to see his son who's on the bench.   The second half continues in the same vain, Portugal organised and unexciting despite making a couple of half time changes whilst England happy with their lead aren't prepared to take unnecessary risk.   There's half chances at both ends whilst both keepers make one really good stop each, the game however feels flat despite a near record attendance over 1,000 crammed in here. Despite being sat on the back row I annoyingly have kids stood behind me playing nuisance, thankfully they head to the exits with a few minutes to go, by then Portugal need two goals and have pretty much given up on any hope of qualification, by the time the Latvian Referee blows for full time, both teams have long expected their predicted destiny.   The Stars   England's midfield has strength and guile, Tyler Dibling runs lovely with the ball at his feet, Mikey Moore is always looking to make things happen, Josh King off the bench can carry the ball at high speed, seemingly hovering over the surface as he runs forward like a gazelle.   Marshalled impressively in goal by Arsenal's Tommy Setford. Defensively England are really solid and didn't even concede in their three group games. Zach Abbott has limitations but he's going to be a good solid pro, that i'm sure, Josh Acheampong and Stephen Mfuni read things so well, are levels above even Abbott, Triston Rowe good pace and character on the right could be a dynamic full back for future years.   Up front, I do think England's squad slightly lacks quality, unsure of either number nine, word is from the Manchester United scout that Ethan Wheatley 'needs to do more' whilst Shumaira Mheuka has ability, but there's something missing for me. But in Tyreik George the nation has a bright spark out wide, pace and trickery, a throw back, entertainer who's one mission in life is to give the right back some misery, I'm looking forward to seeing how he progresses, apparently a big reason in why Chelsea don't particularly want to permanently sign Jadon Sancho.   For Portugal, it was another game where I struggled to see any attacking prowess of note. I do like their goalkeeper Goncalo Ribeiro who is 19, in the Porto B team. I do like their centre half Goncalo Oliveira who is 18 and in the Benfica U19's team. The best way I can describe him, he looks like an unfit 30 year old centre half, an old-skool defender who simply gets stuck in, left footed, not afraid to clear his lines.   Next to Oliveira, João Salvador of Braga did well in the game and a half he played, whilst Porto's Martim Cunha at left back looks a prospect. I like Eduardo Felicissimo who plays for Sporting, he's a CDM who played a half at centre half against Wales, I don't know what it is about him, he looks like Bruno Fernandes in body shape, slightly skinny and scrawly but intelligent without having noticeable star quality, he has a good range of passing and always seems to take up sensible positions.   The Verdict   No doubt Olivio Tome's injury impacted Portugal's chances of getting the result they needed to qualify, but these games are often finding out about young players and how they can compete against the best. Both teams will have learned a lot from playing each other and it will only help these boys going forward.   As well as victory tonight, England U18's beat Portugal 1-0 earlier in the day thanks to a Jake Derry goal (he's the son of Shaun), the U21's also beat Portugal 4-2 at the Hawthorns on Monday with Ethan Nwaneri amongst those scoring, it looks like the current crop has the edge on an old rival who's often been a tough nut to crack at full aged tournament level, which is certainly something which provides England hope going forward, our kids are doing alright, and might one day finally bring home our cravings.   The Teams  England: Tommy Setford, Zach Abbott, Joshua Achempong, Stephen Mfuni, Triston Rowe, Lewis Miley, Mikey Moore, Chris Rigg (Josh King 79), Tyler Dibling (Kiano Dyer 90), Tyreik George, Shumaira Mheuka (Kadan Young 87). Portugal: Goncalo Ribeiro, Guilherme Peixoto, Joao Salvador, Goncalo Oliveira, Martim Cunha, Gil Martins (Tiago Freitas 67), Eduardo Felicissimo, Diogo Sousa (Goncalo Moreira 46), Olivio Tome (Rodrigo Duarte 11 (Neto 81)), Gabriel Silva (Nuno Patricio 67), Keyan Varela. 7:00pm Kick Off. Tuesday 25th March 2025, Deeside Stadium, Connah's Quay (att 1,009).

Wales U19 0-1 Portugal U19 (UEFA European U19 Championships Qualifiers) I left Mick Hartford and the Turkish agent getting into the back of a dirty old white van outside the stadium in Connah's Quay. Maybe Luton's links to Bedford gets them a second hand company vehicle?    Word is they were also going to this afternoons game, I was half wondering if I should follow them in case they break down, but instead, left to my own devices I'm tracking back across the A55 for one last time this weekend, to the sunshine resort of Rhyl, which hosts the hosts against Portugal.   Probably the team I've been least impressed with so far is Portugal, managed by former international Filipe Ramos who also played for Sporting Lisbon, they got out of jail in their opener against Turkey and despite a 2-2 draw were probably second best on the day.   Wales were also second best to England in defeat in their opener but they played really well against the best team in the group, it'll be interesting to see how they perform today against opponents who look more at a familiar level.   I'm heading across to Belle Vue, home of CPD Y Rhyl 1879 FC who were formed in 2020 after the dissolving of Rhyl FC. The skies are brightening as I take a short cut through the North Welsh country roads before appearing in the town of Rhuddlan, past some rather spacious and quaint semi detached houses, I pull up on the Grange Road outside a crown green bowls and tennis club. The Venue   It's been a bit of a nightmare if I'm honest, the arrangements of these games, Connah's Quay on Wednesday was cash only, Wales v England was ticket only, with nowhere to sit down, whilst Rhyl have made it a free for all, pay on the gate with a queue already forging onto the street an hour and half before kick off.    I'm in early as have no accreditation and don't want to come all this way to be told it's sold out, so join the back of the queue outside a One Stop shop which soon goes down when the turnstiles are finally open.   Just £5 for adults, its a quid for kids and there's loads here enjoying the event with their tracksuit wearing mates.   I walk in to the venue with an eye on sitting somewhere quiet, thankfully there's plenty of seats at this one, a real homely and intimate football ground, close up and tight to the action, three sides have bit bob stands held together with rusty old steel, breeze block walls and scaffold.   Behind one goal is open ended but the view from the club house gives a roof top gantry which is a nice effect. As people are already up there enjoying a pre match beer on the veranda.   I'm sat behind the Portuguese analyst who's going over clips of England's match against Turkey today, before being joined by a fan from Bangor, who's just seen his team lose at Denbigh Town. He's friendly and asks me who to look out for in the Portuguese team, he tells me that he has over 3,000 Bangor City programmes and has been going to their games since the 1960s, before handing me two team cards from the recent Welsh Cup semi finals which he says I can have. A nice touch from a nice fella.   The Game   It's a decent start by Wales who are the designated away team today and who are wearing an unusual but likeable cream colour of yellow.   As against England they look to get their wingers involved, Issaka down the right is a real good outlet with pace and trickery, in midfield Charlie Crew, their captain who's at Doncaster Rovers on loan from Leeds is spraying balls about, Vimal Yogananthan, a leggy number ten is awkward but silky, I like the Welsh style under Chris Gunter, uncomplicated they get it back to front quickly, have a good tall goalkeeper, a good solid defence, a workman line midfield and pace out wide, just lacking a top centre forward to score them some goals.   The atmosphere is good, the ground over three quarters full but the game isn't living up to expectations, there's a lot of corners, some free kicks, no real danger for either goalkeeper but Olivio Tome, a player I recommended to my new friend from Bangor, he's playing well, the most lively threat for Portugal on the left, think Rafael Leao, he's leggy and tricky always willing to take on a defender or have a go, he lets fly from range one which whiskers wide before firing another over the crossbar with a powerful effort after holding off his man.   The Score   Tome aside it's another disappointing spectacle from the Portuguese who make two changes at the break, and they improve in the second half, Felicissimo who's been playing centre half has been released into midfield whilst Neto who scored with his first touch after coming on against Turkey, hasn't nearly as been effective today, he's replaced by Varela.   Portugal aren't pretty, but they are dogged and hard working, their defenders clear their lines, their goalkeeper is solid which provides confidence, in the centre of the park their captain Martim Ferreira is much better today, combative, he wins duals both on and off ground.   They've had a decent spell and Benjamin in the Welsh goal makes a good save to the applauds of his mum, dad and two brothers sitting in front of me, but as Portugal sniff opportunity, they score when on top, when after a corner is crossed from the left, Gabriel Silva, who's had a quiet game up front on his own, the smallest man on the field almost, finds space to head home.   That goal means if Wales don't score they're out of the competition and although they bring on Derby's Cruz Allen, a player I really like, they have possession and territory but never really penetrate the Portuguese defence, which is again marshalled well by their durable defender Goncalo Oliveira who heads and kicks anything that comes towards him.   The Stars   Portugal are much better than they were against Turkey, but not totally free flowing, they can defend and mix it and although have one or two stars, find it difficult to create chances in their 433 system.   Their goalie is good, really good, in front of him their centre half Oliveira is a player I like, in midfield I saw glimpses of Ferreira who battles honestly hard, not enough of Gil Martins their creative number ten.   Standing head and shoulders the best player on the pitch was Benfica's Olivio Tome, stay tuned for more of him to come, whilst centre forward Gabriel Silva who's running I enjoyed in midweek, was much quieter tonight, but he did get the winning goal with true predatory instinct.   For Wales, Plymouth Argyle's flying winger Frederick Issaka was a constant menace on the right. In midfield, Charlie Crew battled and Vimal Yogananthan did well, whilst defensively, Cardiff centre half Dylan Lawlor impressed me most, right back Zach Giggs, son of Ryan has to be commended up against a very good Portuguese winger in Tome.   The Verdict   The Welsh are out, but not down, on leaving Belle Vue they played a rendition over the tannoy of Yma o Hyd, the young supporters all joining in as they walked towards the exits, beautifully sung it's still one of those spine tingling moments whenever people in Wales get together and join in.   Chris Gunter's side are a likeable bunch and with Welsh football in a good place right now, I suspect many of these players to continue their pathway through the international system.   For Portugal, it doesn't feel like a vintage, the class of 25, but they always seem to punch above their weight when it comes to producing the best players in the world, there might one or two in this team with soon to be €100m price tags, which is why so many scouts are already sniffing, whilst chomping at the bit to see who might come good. The Teams Wales: Lewys Benjamin, Zach Giggs, Dylon Lawlor, Aled Thomas, Alfie Tuck (Troy Perrett 69), Luey Giles, Frederick Issaka (Cruz Allen 60), Charlie Crew, Vimal Yogananthan (George Morgan 69), Elliot Miles (Sam Parker 82), Gabriele Biancheri. Portugal: Goncalo Ribeiro, Guilherme Peixoto, Eduardo Felicissimo, Goncalo Oliveira, Martin Cunha, Gil Martins (Tiago Freitas 75), Martim Ferreira (Joao Salvador 46), Diogo Lobao, Francisco Neto (Keyan Varela 46), Gabriel Silva (Nuno Patricio 75), Olivio Tome (Tiago Parente 90). 5:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 22nd March 2025, Belle Vue, Rhyl (att: 1,607).

England U19 0-0 Turkey U19 (UEFA European U19 Championships Qualifiers) I decided not to go for a pint last night on my way back from watching Caernarfon Town beat Bala after seeing some bloke puke outside a loud sounding boozer playing karaoke, instead I went back to the digs and got my head down for an early start today.   Up bright and breezy feeling fresh and glad I didn't go for that drink, I'm washed and out the door for 8am heading back across the A55 to Connah's Quay. A quick stop off for some breakfast at McDonald's before I arrive at Deeside College for around 9:30am, a good hour and a half ahead of kick off.   Will Antwi's England U19's are playing Turkey who are coached by Galatasaray legend Sabri Sarioglu who also made 44 national team appearances, both sides unbeaten in this four team elite round Euro under 19s qualifying group after England beat Wales on Wednesday and Turkey drew with Portugal in the opener.   As I sit and wait in the college car park where Deeside Stadium is situated, I get news of the teams so start jotting down the elevens in my notepad, England with nine changes whilst Turkey tinker less with just two. Dropping their goalkeeper who was awful in match one. The Venue   As I get out my car a tall handsome looking Turk asks me where the entrance is, he's the agent of Gokdeniz Gorpuz of Galatasaray and tells me he's having trouble with driving on the left hand side of the road over here. I tell him not to panic, as in Wales everybody drives slow.    On entrance I'm impressed that today, the turnstile has choice for cash or card, after letting me in free on Wednesday, it's a different fella on the door today, so I pay just £3 on card and walk up the stairs of the only seated stand, to the last but one row, a decent view of running track and football pitch with a slight wind chill, the players out warming up below, the weather bright but overcast, as you notice the surface looks a lot more cut up than it did three days ago.    The Game   Former England striker Mick Harford sits himself next to me, he's with a shady looking Turkish agent, there's a handful of scouts dotted around but some fans, mostly friends and family in front of Turkey, plenty of kids making noise as the game starts following the ceremonial national anthems.    Big Mick says to me "the pitch is awful, why are they playing here" to my reply "I'm sure you've played on worse".    It's bobbling though and both sets of players are struggling with the bounce of the ball, some times it rolls under the foot, other times it bounces over, "a great leveller" says Mick who continues "this will sort out who the decent players are".    It's certainly not pretty, England in a 3-4-3 type formation play with a lobsided style system that has Crystal Palace full back Caleb Kphora combining with Kaden Young down the right to both get forward and double up in attack, but Chris Rigg is more inverted on the left as the central defender Mfuni of Man City occupies an almost traditional left back role of defending first and foremost behind him.   Shumaira Mheuka who did well off the bench to score v Wales is isolated and ineffective today, he has far too many touches than he needs on this poor surface, neither side has had any serious opportunity, as Mick starts giving golf lessons to the Turkish agent, who tells him he's just started playing but is very bad. "Soft hands around the shaft" says Mick.    After hearing chants of 'Tukiye, Turkiye' their conversation moves on to Turkish lessons, after Mick asks "how do you say yes in Turkish" before rolling off the tongue a number of times in his northern accent "Evet, Evet, Efffffetttt".    The Score   Sadly Mick moves a couple of places up after half time so the entertainment is now focused less on banter, but on the game, which does improve in the second half, a little more open, Turkey like they were against Portugal, are good value and in their number eight, Korkut, they have a player who looks to get on the ball with guile, he plays with confidence when driving forward and comes closest in the game to breaking the deadlock when he lets fly from range a cracker that cannons off the crossbar.    England respond and bring on Tyler Dibling, Josh King and Tyreik George who in particular adds extra pace and panache to the team out left. George teases and tricks his way into the area but Arican's goal is well protected. Mikey Moore has a shot straight at him, Dibling shoots over late on, England ramp up the possession stats and corner count but in fairness never really look like penetrating the Turkish defence, a decent point for both will depend on the result in today's other game.    The Stars   England changed all but two of their team that beat Wales on Wednesday, defender Zach Abbott, who struggled against the useful Huseyin Erturk in attack, and Midfielder Lewis Miley, who after a sloppy start of trying to work out the pitches uneven bounce, grew and got better, more dominant throughout.    Of those fresh and new to the starting XI, Stephen Mfuni of Manchester City perhaps looked coolest and calmest on the left side of a three man defence, Crystal Palace right back Caleb Kphora looked handy, athletic and powerful, linking well with his winger Kadan George who was positive, on loan at Antwerp his parent club is Aston Villa, whilst Sunderland's Chris Rigg shown moments of quality which is why he has a price tag over 20 million quid.    I liked Lewis Orford of West Ham, a pigeon chested midfielder who carries the ball well reminding me a bit of Jordan Henderson, but England's star to watch for me is Tyreik George who came on late off the bench and shown his defender on a couple of occasions a clean set of heals will trickery.   For Turkey, after doing we against Portugal, I was again impressed in Efe Akman, who ran his socks off in the centre of the park before being taken off late on. Huseyin Erturk is a striker who backs his arse into defenders and I really like watching him win tussle after tussle, he loves a scrap with a defender, whilst growing in the game, Korkut, who scored on Wednesday, a midfielder playmaker who has the slender frame but suave, sophistication and elegance of Bryan Gil, the best way I can describe for now, he did well, a player in the Stuttgart system, is one certainly to watch. With more power potential than Gil, he could adapt to the Premier League one day, he certainly has the vision and technique. Also Hamza Gureler an eighteen year old centre half playing for Istanbul Basaksehir, he looked physically solid and read the game well, dealing comfortably with everything thrown at him.   The Verdict   England might regret not winning what was a winnable match as Portugal will be no roll over on Tuesday, but should the likes of Josh Acheampong and Kiano Dyer return, should they start the likes of Tyler Dibling, Josh King and Tyreik George, you would think they should have enough to get the job done and qualify for the tournament proper which is in Romania this summer.   Turkey will be waiting in the wings with a chance to beat Wales next, I've been impressed by them, there agents are certainly flocking around with some lira notes in their eyes, they'll be hoping to cash in on one or two stars of this team and I'm sure they will, as one or two look destined for big things. The Teams England: Finlay Herrick, Zach Abbott, Harrison Murray-Campbell, Stephen Mfuni, Caleb Kphora, Lewis Orford, Lewis Miley, Chris Rigg (Tyler Dibling 75), Kaden Young (Tyreik George 75), Mikey Moore, Shumaira Mheuka (Josh King 75). Turkey: Arican, Taylor Aydin, Hamza Gureler, Mertlan Ayhan, Ofli, Korkut, Efe Akman (Boran Baskan 70), Gokdeniz Gorpuz (Yalin Dilek 60), Emre Gokay (Donmez 60), Huseyin Erturk (Usluoglu 79), Emirhan Arkutku (Kaya 46). 11:00am Kick Off. Saturday 22nd March 2025, Deeside Stadium, Connah's Quay (att 742).

Wales U19 0-2 England U19 (UEFA European U19 Championships Qualifiers) I'm wished well by the scout from Stoke on my travels from Connah's Quay as he heads home from watching Portugal v Turkey and I travel to Bangor for Wales against England tonight.   The sun is belting down, hotter than Ibiza they say this week, as I head across the stunning A55 with views of the Irish Sea, before a quick pit stop at a McDonalds near Prestatyn.   Journey continued, I wonder to myself is there a better looking dual carriageway in the UK? The North Wales Expressway has high green hills to the left, the blue sparkling ocean to my right, cutting through the odd cliff as you drive through tunnels like you might around the French Riviera.   I'm directed to signs for Anglesey and the wonderful Menai Bridge, the ground a short walk away, with coastal views to die for as I park up early and head to an Asda in the town of Bangor which is a decent trek on foot. The Venue   I'm heading to the ground around 5pm, walking down the stunning Holyhead Road which has high up views over the Menai Strait and Anglesey across the water before you spot the floodlights lower down the hill, Bangor City was only dissolved this year but Bangor 1876 are now flying the local football flag, their Nantporth ground on the edge of town has been in place since 2012, a modern set up with separate 3g training facility it backs on to a small holiday village with wooden chalets over looking the pitch.   I'm walking to the turnstile by the back the impressive modern stand as a Welsh player comes out with a member of coaching staff, he walks down in front of me before knocking on the team bus door to alert the coach driver "I've left my boots on the bus".   I've got a standing only ticket today as I didn't receive an option to purchase seating, and once inside the ground you notice why, only one seated area of note, all be it a large blue seated stand which is also home to the club house, some hospitality and the players changing rooms, whilst there is a small covered section in one corner reserved for families, I'm designated to either of the open ends as my only way of watching this game.   There's a few scouts moaning behind the goals mixed in with fans, jostling for a position is starting to become a problem as the ground fills up, over 2,500 in tonight, I'm told they usually get 500 at best.   One scout says to me "sod it" as he walks over to the reserved seating area and parks himself down high up on half way, whilst I stay put, corner flag offering a panoramic view, but not ideal as anything over the far side with my eyesight is guess work.   The Game   Packed in with fans around me, everyone here is speaking Welsh, which is good for nationalism, I'm surprised that nobody sings the anthems though, all just obey, as the two sets of teams line up before doing battle, not quite David against Goliath but a decent Welsh team will be aware of a very well known England outfit which includes Premier League regulars like Tyler Dibbling and Lewis Miley whilst Mikey Moore who has been smashing the ball in during the warm up as good as anybody I have ever seen, is on the bench.   Despite the superstars they face, Wales start well, Chris Gunter has an organised team who want to play on the front foot, they have pace and legs in midfield and look to break fast when they have the ball, issue is England seem to have a lot more of it.   Typically, it's all down the far end from me as I notice Chelsea's Tyrique George teasing the Welsh right back Parker with numerous tirades down the left, George has shone for Chelsea in the Conference League this season and looks dynamite with skill and trickery, really fast feet, what Madueke does on the right for Chelsea, he could potentially do on the left, what an exciting prospect they have.   The best player in the first half though is Wales goalkeeper Lewys Benjamin, the Wolves player has done brilliantly to keep out a number of England attempts and looks solid in all departments, at the other end Arsenal's Tommy Setford, whose brother plays in goal for Ajax, Is rarely tested but has good demeanour, both goalkeepers excellently confident on the ball and are tall and agile, comfortable with shots and crosses.   The Score   There's optimism in the way that Wales played the first half but it's England who come out the traps better in the second, Josh Acheampong who's a Rolls Royce at centre half, he breaks out, running past a handful of Welsh players along the way before teeing up Ethan Whiteley to drill home hard and low. That settles the English nerves, if there were ever any, in fairness they are good, very good in all departments, a 3-4-3 formation with Zach Abbott and Joe Johnson either side of Acheompong the central defender, the wingers George and Rowe get forward supplying Wheatley of Manchester United, Kiano Dyer holding in front of Miley, Dibling and Josh King, all comfortable with the ball. It's been a tough task for Wales who have been dogged and determined but the game is put to bed when seventeen year old substitute Shumaira Mheuka of Chelsea dribbles through, he dances around the Welsh defence inside their area before blasting hard and low, a celebration in front of me includes the words 'get fucking in'. The Stars England were brilliant against a game and organised team, who had pace on the break, Benjamin in goal may have been Wales best player but in the likes of Vimal Yogananthan, Frederick Issaka and Elliot Myles, they have pace and midfield runners who like to get at defenders in a positive manner. England though a class above, Acheampong looked at ease at the heart of defence, Zach Abbott impressed on the right side, Kiano Dyer picking up the pieces like a young Angel Gomes in midfield, Lewis Miley and Tyler Dibbling cruising in second gear, Josh King brilliant running with the ball, whilst Tyrique George was the pick of the bunch. The Verdict I'm backing England as the team I've seen to progress to the finals which will be held in Romania later this year, an annual tournament now which England have twice won, they certainly have the tools to make that three. Wales are in good shape, the national team and youth levels seem to be singing off the same Hymn sheet, which is usually the case in Wales, when the voices are in tune there's no better noise, and i'm sure they'll be a few of their players making noises to come, some super talent on show, and i'm ready to come back and do it all again on Saturday. The Teams Wales U19: Lewys Benjamin, Sam Parker, Brayden Clarke, Dylan Lawlor, Luey Giles, Troy Perrett (Alfie Tuck 67), Charlie Crew (Dakarai Mafico 85), Vimal Yogananthan (George Morgan 80), Frederick Issaka (Cruz Allen 67), Gabriele Biancheri, Elliot Myles (Cody Twose 80). England U19: Tommy Setford, Zach Abbott, Joshua Acheampong, Joseph Johnson, Triston Rowe, Kiano Dyer (Lewis Orford 90), Lewis Miley, Tyrique George (Mikey Moore 72), Tyler Dibling (Kadan Young 68), Ethan Whiteley (Shumaira Mheuka 68), Joshua King (Chris Rigg 67). 7:00pm Kick Off. Wednesday 19th March 2025, Nantporth, Bangor (att 2,531).

Portugal U19 2-2 Turkey U19 (UEFA European U19 Championships Qualifiers) It's the first match of a marathon week in Wales, a game on Wednesday morning in Connah's Quay followed by one on Wednesday night in Bangor, then back again to Caernarfon on Friday for some Welsh Premier league football action, stopping over for a visit to Connahs Quay again and Rhyl on Saturday for more internationals, then Tuesday night I'm back at the Deeside to round off an U19 Elite round of UEFA qualifications.   Wales are hosts of this four team elite round group stage, they play England tonight whilst Portugal and Türkiye kick this group stage format off, by Saturday night I'll be fluent in all four languages and am hoping to widen my credentials of international football's next generation within these upcoming seven days.    It's an early one, I'm leaving Nottingham at 7am, dropping the dog off at the in laws and across the A50 to Stoke, up the M6 and across the M56 in glorious sunlight, crossing the Welsh border and more impressively, passing the stunning Flintshire Bridge next to the huge and rather ugly Tata Steel plant for 10am, pulling up outside Deeside College before walking over to the home of Connah's Quay Nomads which is within the campus grounds. The Venue   It's an athletics track, just one large stand, you can probably view the action from an elevated position above the hedgerow outside, but I get in the queue where there's a small number of scouts ahead of the turnstiles opening, some groundhoppers ask a lady how much to get in, '£3 cash' they're told, 'we don't accept card'.    My names not down as the man on the gate tells the bloke in front "I've got 26 pages of scouts to let in". I ask "if I can't pay cash where's the nearest cash machine" and he replies "don't worry about it, just go in". I'll remember to bring six pound sterling on Saturday to sort him out.    Inside this sun blessed arena is greenery, the hedge tops and trees sparkle around the pitch perimeter wrapped in red running track, the houses add backdrop across the way, to the left the huge cabled structure of the Flintshire Bridge is partially viewable, up in the stand it's elevated but cold in the shade, as a breeze passes through on what should be a warm spring day.    The Game   By now the stand is full of scouts as one I recognise passes around the team sheets, some random ground hopping football fans are joined by some college kids who take up the empty spaces, the national anthems are sung and action is under way, slow paced, Portugal passing between their back four, Turkey not interested in the press.    It's pretty drab but for a comedic keeper, Demir in net for Turkey has a disaster of a start, kicking one straight to a Portuguese striker who should score but blasts over, he's dropped a routine catch and has kicked two clearances into touch, before a big save from Duarte provides the first highlight of what he's actually quite good at doing.    Despite having most of the ball, Portugal go into the break finding themselves behind, a long punt catches out their back line and the handy looking centre forward Huseyin Erturk, who plays his football in Belgium at Beveren, is through, he rounds the keeper who brings him down, before calmly dispatching the penalty.    The Score   At half time I chat to a scout from Stoke who's sat behind me, before sitting down for the second half in anticipation, Portugal make a couple of subs as they look to get back in the game but Turkey are a nuisance on the break, they add a second with just two minutes gone when Korkut slots home from close range.   Portugal aren't out of it though, they immediately reply as Tome causes problems done the left, his low cross is slotted in by Gil Martins and after a half of hardly anything it's all action to begin the second 45, Turkey test Goncalo Ribeiro with a clever Emre Gokay free kick, they look smart on the counter and their number nineteen Erturk is having a right good battle with the Portuguese defenders, he's a proper old-skool number nine but looks like he has some naughty Turkish fire, he gets booked for something he says before being quickly taken off by his coaching staff.   His departure, along with that of captain Efe Akman, means Turkey are a weaker team during the last ten minutes, and it's no surprise when Portugal level, Tome doing well on the left finding Neto who scores with his first touch after coming on as substitute.   Both sides have chances late on but the draw is fair reflection, Portugal better on the ball with patient play,  Turkey better on the break when running at speed, it'll be interesting to see how both do against sterner opposition when they play against England.   The Stars   Turkey's big centre forward Erturk got a lot of love from those watching around me, almost throw back like he competed, fought, tussled, and tried as hard as anyone with a good willing attitude but shown good feet, a good turn of pace, a good eye for creating opportunity, both for himself and others, the next Hakan Sukur? He probably reminded me more of a modern day Mitrovic, he'll throw his body around and wrestle with opponents but has a touch of class, my fear will he be too hot headed for the Premier League?   Another impressing for Turkey, was their golden haired midfield engine Efe Akman who plays his football for Galatasaray. Think Jimmy Bullard, captains armband wrapped around his bicep, always showing for the ball with plenty of energy in the centre of the park.   Of the others, Emre Gokay looked to have talent out wide right, left footed cutting in and feeding passes through in the typical Turkish frame of a Tuncay, Emre Belozoglu, Hakan Calhanoglu type player we've long come to expect, looked to have a decent tool from free kicks too and was a willing runner with the ball at his feet.   Portugal perhaps left a lot to be desired still after largely disappointing me. Defensively they got done too easily, which was annoying as I liked the look of their goalkeeper Goncalo Ribeiro and their centre half Goncalo Oliveira who when on the ball looked to have swagger. He plays for Benfica and is one to watch.   In midfield Gil Martins provided their spark from central forward areas, out wide both Tome who played the whole ninety, and Varela who came on in the second half, shown pace and skill but weren't always making the right decisions. Still perhaps having something to learn.   The Verdict   My first ever youth international match was watching England play Turkey in 1993, when Scholes, Neville, Sol Campbell, Fowler and more lifted the European Championships at U18 level, I don't remember too many Turks going on to make it big from that team but what I have expected since, is a good solid nation of players who can certainly play, they'll mix it with the best regardless of age group and have some stars to watch, surely a country their size will one day reach a major final. They've been close before.   Portugal have always produced and I'm sure from this crop they'll be a few that you'll come to recognise one day, working out who fits where and how is not the job of a scout, but is one for a team of recruiters, but rough diamonds right now, any of these players seen today could go on to have super careers tomorrow. Portugal: Goncalo Ribeiro, Peixoto, Goncalo Oliveira, Ricardo Ribeiro, Tiago Parente (Martin Cunha 77), Gil Martins (Neto 77), Martim Ferreira, Eduardo Felicissimo (Diego Lobao 46), Rodrigo Duarte (Pereira Varela 65), Nuno Patricio (Gabriel Silva 46), Olivio Tome. Turkey: Dogukan Demir, Taylan Aydin, Hamza Gureler, Mertcan Ayhan, Bican Tibukoglu (Deniz Ofli 90), Korkut, Efe Akman (Boran Baskan 77), Gokdeniz Gurpuz (Naim Donmez 90), Emirhan Arkutku (Arda Usluoglu 90), Huseyin Erturk (Yalin Dilek 76), Emre Gokay. 11:00am Kick Off. Wednesday 19th March 2025, Deeside Stadium, Connah's Quay (att 200 est).

Alfreton Town 1-1 Oxford City (National League North) I've hired a car. The Mrs is using mine whilst she waits for a brand new one to be sent next month and I've got plenty of games cross country for this next week so they've given me a Peugeot 2008 until Friday and said 'crack on'. Both Alfreton Town and Oxford City have been pretty shocking of late. The two teams seriously starting to look over their shoulder after some really worrying form, previously safe looking in mid-table the Reds have slumbered to just two wins in fifteen, they are without a victory in seven, are still eleven points above the drop zone but are in real danger of getting sucked in if they don't pick up some vital three points from their remaining ten games. Oxford City are even closer to trouble, just a couple of points above Needham Market in the last of the four relegation places, they haven't won in seven and lost by seven, last time out thumped at home to Buxton 7-0. Something will have to give today. Or perhaps it won't? I'm off in my new hire car, working out where everything is as I trudge through the Saturday afternoon Nottingham ring road traffic, onto the M1 and A38, pulling up a couple of streets from North Street, home of Alfreton Town, for 1:30pm. The Venue It's still quiet, so much so I could probably have parked outside the ground as one of the Oxford Directors pulls up in a Range Rover and asks a steward where he can shove his car. I'm walking as usual through a tiny reception door next to the turnstiles, a quaint and cute ground which for me is what non league football is all about. Located in the heart of the community the Impact Arena is a mish mash of all things you love about these type of football grounds, something blue, something borrowed, old and weather-warn in parts, red painted, green pitch sloped, glistening on this spring Saturday afternoon. I'm asked if I want a programme as I walk past a stall selling pin badges, making my way up to the cushty tight press seating area, I'm past Alfreton manager Billy Heath and a number of players who he's having a pre-game discussion with. From the press seats I'm greeted by the clubs usual faces, a scout from Sheffield is here, one from Scunthorpe and the Oxford radio team, I have a word with Liam who runs Alfreton's twitter and remind him "you need a win today". The Game Alfreton have mixed things up slightly and not for the better in my opinion, at home against lowly opposition who haven't won for as long as they, Billy Heath has decided to go 5-4-1 with three centre halves, usual faces Dwayne Wiley and Josh Clackstone banished to the bench, they don't seem their usual aggressive selves, lacking of confidence midst a patch that is getting sticker by the week. Oxford have had a rocket up their arse following their 7-0 defeat to Buxton, they've came out confident and up for the fight, I tell the Scout next to me, "you need to be up for the scrap against Alfreton, if you match them in that department, you have a chance, if you don't, you'll get turned over". And Oxford more than do match Alfreton's physical frolics, they start the better of the two teams and take the lead on ten minutes, Zac McEachran, given too much time and space inside the area to swivel and shoot the hoops in lime green today, into the lead. McEachran comes from a football family of top class players (Josh & George also forging good careers), now 29 he's silky and smooth himself, the player on show today that is easiest on the eye, as all the rest battle and bash lumps out of each other. Alfreton as always, direct, long up to Jake Day who like the glue sticks like sh*t. He holds up everything very well indeed, the long throws by Adam Lund cause havoc, a couple of opportunities are headed wide by the home side but Oxford have defended well, they seem to be playing for the Manager who I presume is under a lot of pressure to keep his job. The Score At half time I chuck a pound in the press box tea kitty, pour myself a brew and pinch a jammie dodger before sitting back down in the sunshine for a half of football which is even more keenly contested than the first 45. It's gripping as Alfreton give all in search of a leveller, Oxford are brilliant, kicking and heading everything away, after conceding seven last week, this is exactly the reaction their fans would have wanted, although not many are here to witness it. Both teams have given it their all, 115% and it's a credit to the level, to themselves how much they put in, but big centre half Jalen Jones who's played really well, gets himself in trouble. He got booked in the first half and was lucky not to get a yellow early in the second as he snapped down an Alfreton player, he's handled the ball with ten remaining and suddenly City are down to ten men. That makes a huge difference, Jones is 6ft5 plus, Oxford's tallest player, whilst Alfreton have been bombarding the box with aerial attempts all afternoon, a cross comes in from the right, Day can't make hay, but the ball falls to George Cantrill who outside of the right boot smashes into the top corner. He doesn't get many Cantrill, usually the enforcer and ball winner in midfield with his aggressive socks rolled down nature, but he comes up with something to salvage, something quite classy and Alfreton have time for a winner, but news that Needham Market are now winning at Chorley, does neither team any favours, in the end Oxford dig in, Alfreton leave it too late, the spoils are shared and both teams see opportunity missed. The Stars I feel for Oxford who were the better team on the day, they pressed and defended heroically but when reduced to ten it became too tough to defend their lead against rugged and gamely opposition. Alfreton gave a debut to Luke Matheson on loan from Bolton at right back, he once scored for Rochdale as a sixteen year old against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Tiny in size and unlike your usual Alfreton player, he was gutsy and game and did well, usual suspects Adam Lund, Max Hunt, George Cantrill, Jake Day, all putting shifts in with steady seven out of ten displays, as they always do. Whilst Oxford did the same and dug in to scrap with plenty of effort, Chi Ezzenolim and Andre Burley at the back in particular doing well, I liked their flair players when on the ball, McEachran buoyed by an early goal played with suave and intelligence, they took him off with fifteen to go, as you would do when 1-0 up, naturally, but had they kept him on things may have been different, on a day when keeping the ball was difficult, he kept it better than anyone. Josh Parker in attack is that cool calm experienced head you need, his goals will be the difference should they stay up, Jayden Carbon in an advanced wide position also doing well going forward, but Oxford will now need to rely on their characters to pull them through, as they sit worryingly in the relegation places. The Verdict Oxford City are the first club to play in the National South, National League and National North, in three consecutive seasons, they might be in another division by May, little luck they have had this year, but a lot of that blame will lie with themselves, now two points below the line, after Needham Market's win. Alfreton who are nine points clear now will be hoping that a win is around the corner, both teams played like they still have a lot of fight to give, I think they are both too good to go down, but then tables never lie, and both teams are still needing to improve their fortunes if they are to stay in this division next season. The Teams Alfreton Town: David Robson, Max Hunt, Adam Lund, George Cantrill, Jake Day, Liam Waldock (Jed Abbey 67), Nathan Newell, Sam Osborne (Josh Clackstone 74), David Solademi (Dwayne Wiley 34), Akeel Francis, Luke Matheson (Lewis Salmon 80). Oxford City: Laurie Walker, Andre Burley, Chi Ezennolim, Josh Ashby, Jalen Jones, Zac McEachran (Lewis Coyle 77), Josh Parker, Tom Scott, Jayden Carbon (Phil Croker 81), Jacob Ruddy, Aaron Drewe. 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 15th March 2025, North Street, Alfreton (att 409).

Aston Villa 3-0 Club Brugge (UEFA Champions League Round of 16) You can't help but love the game. On a Tuesday night you could be watching sixth tier football with 400 fans in the freezing cold. 24 hours later it's the Champions League with 40,000 and fireworks and that anthem, the roar that goes with it. I really enjoy the thud of the ball you get with grassroots but we all love football for nights like this. Aston Villa, kings of Europe in 1982 are over-excelling upon their long awaited return to the big-time, they have a 3-1 first leg lead over Club Brugge who were once finalists in 1978 losing 1-0 at Wembley to Liverpool, who last night themselves got knocked out of this year's competition despite being favourites, despite topping the unchartered Swiss model group stages at largely a canter. It really is anybody's year, the winner of this tie will play PSG. Villa are finding things hard this season whilst juggling UCL commitments as league form has been often inconsistent, they are still in the FA Cup and have added to their squad in January to give them more depth, more experience when it comes to competing in multiple competition at the highest level and it seems to be rubbing off. Brugge are second in the Belgian Pro League having slipped in form of late, they beat Cercle Brugge in the derby at the weekend but know tonight will be difficult to bridge a two goal deficit. I wonder if they've already given the tie to Villa and will turn up in the know that domestically their concentration now lies? I'm off out for 4pm, it's only an hour to Birmingham but traffic is a nightmare cross country at rush hour, it takes two hours after trudging along the M42 and M6 which is pretty lucky as I've found a spot on Litchfield Road where it's free after 7pm or an hour no return before that, pulling up at five past six I get to beat the system along with some other smart drivers doing the same thing. The Venue The walk is still a good ten or fifteen to Villa Park which is a notoriously bad stadium for parking with horrendous congestion near it, the walk through a council estate not the prettiest in Europe, but as the stadium appears under the A38 flyover you get a real feeling of size and stature, impressive from the outside lit up in the dark as I head down the Witton Lane. I've been a couple of times recently so I now know where to get my tickets, heading for the glass doors of the North Stand before a quiet corner entrance in the Doug Ellis Stand takes me up in a dirty old trade lift to the second level. It's there you suddenly find yourself in the away end and walking through a load of Belgians trying to find their seats before heading up the gantry at row Z. I'm met by a scout who I know through a Whatsapp group but it's the first time I've seen him in the flesh, a Derby County fan, a fireman, he's a good lad and we have a nice long chat which steals some time ahead of the game, I hardly notice the players who've been warming up down below, make their way back in, before Villa fans sing the theme tune to Boon and release a huge Tifo from the roof of the Holte End which says 'Prepared' the club motto which has long been associated with their 'Lion' badge. The view up here is like no other I've experienced in football, sat along from TV commentators Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist, it's panoramic, high up, so high you get an almost birds-eye perspective of shape and formation of both teams, everybody down below is miniature as the two sets of players appear before the roar of that famous spine tingling Champions League anthem. The Game Villa don't know whether to stick or twist. The first half starts with Brugge having the ball, lots of it too, as they slowly, methodically, dominate possession without doing too much with it. Villa are comfortable in what looks defensively like a 4-5-1 but when they get possession back, they quickly lose it. Two up from the first leg they don't want to over-commit, they don't want to give anything away unnecessarily, which in some ways plays in to the hands of Brugge, but suddenly that all changes in the blink of an eye. A long ball is punted up field for the rapid Marcus Rashford to chase on to, he's the only player in the Brugge half, and he's wrong side of defender Sabbe who by now is in all sorts of mess, he bundles Rashford over twenty yards out from goal with just the keeper to beat, an inevitable red card is shown. You feel that would allow Villa to come out the traps, take some risks, but they don't, deciding to sit in and defend the ten men of their visitors, by half time hardly anything else has happens and with the tie pretty much over, you expect not much more to for the remainder either. The Score But again with a blink of an eye it all changes, Unai Emery, a tactical mastermind, a Manager who I think is probably only bettered in the Premier League by Pep Guardiola, a man who knows European football and how to win matches on nights like this, he brings on Leon Bailey and (more importantly) Marco Asensio after half time, the Spaniard, in particular, makes an immediately huge difference. His off ball running is impossible to pick up, his intelligence a level above anyone else on the pitch, he's a World Class footballer and I didn't really know this until tonight. Ten men Brugge can't live with Asensio who makes all the difference, suddenly Rashford has a footballer on his wavelength to combine with and Villa are alive around the opposition box. Bailey prods in from the right and Asensio is there, to open the score on 50. It should be two, the Spaniard super sub is sent through one on one with more spectacular movement but cracks a post, by now Ordonez, who's been gutsy at centre half, has seen enough, he's gone down, not wanting to run after this energy-pumped electric Spaniard, Brugge now reduced to nine men whilst Ordonez receives treatment, concede again, Rogers doing well to find Maatsen in space who pokes home via a deflection from close range. On 61 with Ordonez now subbed off Asensio grabs a second, Rashford playing his part, he looks like a rejuvenated, more confident, happier Marcus Rashford, he's playing his way in this new look Villa attack and looks back to his younger, hungrier days of United and England youth, it's great to see as the last 30 minutes are played with swagger and style, by now Youri Tielemans is pulling the strings, this side that Emery has built is really going places with so many footballers at high levels. The Stars Backed by the world's best goalkeeper who had very little to do, it seems Villa now have almost two players for every position, Mings and Konsa at centre half were outstanding, but they could have still won had that been Torres and Bogarde for example. Cash at right back is a solid staple by now, he was replaced late on by Disasi, Ian Maatsen brilliant going forward with pace from left back, he kept out Lucas Digne who has 50 French caps and boasts Barcelona amongst his playing portfolio. In midfield the workmanlike John McGinn will go down as an absolute legend of this football club, Tielemans and Kamara beside him offer more legs, more grit, more protection on that defence, Rogers, Rashford, Watkins, some of the best footballers on the continent in forward positions, then there's the subs. Leon Bailey full of trickery, Jacob Ramsey with real quality and panache, and Asensio, who is a steal on loan, ask any Aston Villa fan would they take back Jhon Duran if it meant Asensio would go, I think all would say no. For Brugge, I must admit I expected so much more, and left feeling very disappointed with them, Onyedika in midfield who I was excited to see, didn't dominate with those long legs as I would have hoped, Jutgla in attack who I was excited to see, formerly of Barcelona, was largely innocuous, even Christos Tzolis, a young player I really rate, a flying winger from Greece, looked a class below Villa's forward players, whilst Hans Vanaken, the big powerful skipper and man who everything goes through in that number ten role, he worked hard, an absolute credit to Club Brugge often digging in to defensive responsibility, even he had an off night with some wayward passing. That said, I do like Joel Ordonez, just 20 years old, not the tallest but quick, a good defender from Ecuador who looks like he'll have a top career at centre half, Chemsdine Talbi on the right side of attack also looked to be a footballer with promise, just 19 years old I'll be keeping an eye from now, on how the Moroccan develops. The Verdict Aston Villa now have Paris St Germain in the Quarter Final's of the UEFA Champions League, already they have gone further in the competition than both Manchester City and Liverpool, and it wouldn't surprise me if they caused Luis Enrique's men serious problems, enough to inflict a two leg defeat? I think they can progress, although the Parisians will be a level above and more, than Club Brugge. Villa's form reads one defeat in nine and they have won four on the bounce, this run coinciding with the astute signings of Asensio and Rashford, I think they can really kick on now to do something special, the top four in the Premier League is still not out of reach, the FA Cup a real possibility, a special season could be on the cards again. For Club Brugge, unfortunately with limitations on finances in Belgian football they know their place in Europe, not quite elite, but next level down, they now get to focus on the title race and running down Genk who are nine points clear at the top of the Pro League, another bridge too far perhaps? Win or lose they'll still be forever mixing with the best and developing world class talent, just like they have always done since those lofty days of the seventies. The Teams Aston Villa: Emiliano Martinez, Matt Cash (Axel Disasi 73), Ezri Konsa, Tyrone Mings (Pau Torres 66), Ian Maatsen, Boubacar Kamara (Leon Bailey 46), Youri Tielemans, Morgan Rogers (Jacob Ramsey 66), John McGinn, Marcus Rashford, Ollie Watkins (Marco Asensio 46). Club Brugge: Simon Mignolet, Kyriani Sabbe, Joel Ordonez (Zaid Romero 58), Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper, Raphael Onyedika, Ardon Jashari (Casper Nielsen 58), Chemsdine Talbi (Michal Skoras 58), Hans Vanaken. Christos Tzolis (Hugo Siquet 66), Ferran Jutgla (Gustaf Nilsson 58). 8:00pm Kick Off. Wednesday 12th March 2025, Villa Park, Birmingham (att 42,461).

Buxton 1-0 Spennymoor Town (National League North) Another day another dollar as I head from Chelmsford in Essex to deepest Derbyshire and a long awaited trip to Buxton after last night's late antics between two cathedral cities. It's been a while since I've been to Silverlands and the Bucks have been going well under John McGrath in the National League North, beating Oxford City at the weekend 7-0, they are just outside the playoff zone but within touching distance of the promotion chasing pack. Spennymoor are mid table, themselves tricky to beat, a solid National North outfit under Graeme Lee. I'm predicting a contrast of styles as Buxton like to play a bit, whilst the Moors have some good 'stoppers' across the park. I got done by the late night roadworks on the M11 and A1 last night so am hoping for a better journey over the peaks tonight. An hour and more is my commute to West Derbyshire but it's an idyllic drive to enjoy up and down the hills, rolling countryside and views to behold, the switch off to serenity soon awakens as I enter the sumptuous spa town and park up outside a Georgian terraced house on a leafy street of grey sandstone style houses. The Venue My walk up Silverlands is a couple of minutes to the turnstile, the quiet road closed by a single traffic cone guarded by a friendly steward at the end to stop through traffic as the sound of the PA music gets louder the nearer the stadium I approach. I say my name on the gate, they don't even bother checking a list, a quick pit stop, I'm annoyed the tea kiosk and food bar window is not yet open so take a walk around the ground instead, it's very much like Gainsborough Trinity's Northolme stadium here. One big old posted up seated stand in the middle, opposite a low roofed terrace which is backed onto a row of terraced housing, the far end open, the near end roofed where the Buxton boys will sing whilst banging on a beaten drum. The atmosphere is brilliant, it's a rarity that you get singing all the way through a non league game these days, especially when the away side brings few spectators with them, but in Buxton they enjoy making themselves heard and getting behind their team. The Game It's a start that I probably predicted. Buxton hit seven on Saturday and Spennymoor won't let them do that today. They're organised and solid, combative and structured but pose little going forward, Buxton have some little quick players in the final third and it's their motive to get them on the ball. Luke Brennan has quality on the left whilst Johnny Johnson is rapid down the right, so much so he keeps running it out of play. His legs are too quick for him. The chairman's sat in front of me, he's showing his mate some dirty pics as an injury stops the game, perhaps the most entertaining part of a first 45 as I peer over his shoulder to get a glimpse. The Score If not much happened in the first half, the second 45 does quickly improve as Buxton speed up the tempo. Everything they aim at Brad James however is well held, he's most competent but an early misplaced clearance has him rushing out of goal, he only finds the articulate Connor Kirby who delivers the ball back goalwards from 45 yards, hitting the inside of the post before bouncing across the goal line to safety. Buxton are starting to dominate as Spennymoor retreat, Oli Ewing sees a lot of the ball in midfield, he's on loan from Leicester and looks a lovely player, as does centre half Bobby Faulkner on loan from Doncaster, whilst Ewing is smaller, agile, neat on foot, Faulkner is big, powerful, reads the game well and has a tendency to every now and again knock a 30 yard cross field pass which are mostly intercepted. The home side have a lot of the ball but it doesn't look to be their night, Spennymoor have came to collect a point and are good value in limiting opportunity as the board goes up for just two added. But a final chance as sub Keziah Martin cuts in from the right, his cross into the box causes panic and Finley Shrimpton flicks out a foot, the ball bouncing agonisingly into the far corner of the net, the fans behind the goal go wild as the Bucks players jump in to celebrate with them, someone gets booked, everyone is standing, cheering, clapping, smiling, Spennymoor out on their feet, wondering how they allowed that to happen. A second late winner in succession for me, whilst we all love the joy of a stoppage time goal, I'm always sympathetic with those who concede, those tonight who dug in and battled, almost, just almost a perfect defensive display. The Stars Spennymoor didn't have a lot of the ball but defensively they are one of the more organised teams I've seen in the division. Centre back Ben Pollock is a player I really like at this level. Brad James largely untested in goal but he's composed and assured which must help the back line.  Despite his own goal Finlay Shrimpton battled hard in midfield, their best work on the ball perhaps coming from the experienced Rob Ramshaw, whilst Glen Taylor up front was always up for the battle, well marshalled with lack of support often not helping his lonely cause. Buxton are good, for the last couple of seasons I've seen them play, they always have been. Good full backs, good centre halves, tidy in midfield, quick and skilful in attack, a nice mix. From back to front, Ethan Mann and Bobby Faulkner, tall solid young, a good pairing of centre halves with the future at their peril, I liked Josh Williams who got forward from left back, in front of him, Luke Brennan was sharp and always looking to make things happen. Connor Kirby in midfield is one of my favourite footballers for the level, coming short and giving it simple but with a creative eye to thread passes through, young Oli Ewing next to him, sometimes deeper in the centre also has those attributes, he grew in confidence and got on the ball to dictate in the later stages, whilst fans favourite Tom Elliott is an intelligent player who's running off the ball is hard to track. Out wide Johnny Johnson is electric out right, if only his head worked as fast as his feet. The Verdict Buxton are a team who at home on their plastic pitch, I would back to beat anyone, the right blend to score varied goals whilst being able to mix it with the best, they have creation in their final third and clean sheets, which is often a decent mix. Spennymoor are unlucky to get nothing from their journey south tonight. They're the sort of team nobody really enjoys to play against, because they make it hard for opponents and are structured, expecting every game to be a battle they dig in and will make you scrap for your points, your typical non league mid table outfit, that's an underhanded compliment for a team punching it's weight who are well ran, which Spennymoor certainly are. The Teams Buxton: Paul Cooper, Josh Williams, Ethan Mann, Bobby Faulkner, Connor Kirby, Tom Elliott (Cian Coleman 80), Luke Brennan, Will Trueman, Daniel Ogwuru (Keziah Martin 58), Johnny Johnson, Oli Ewing. Spennymoor Town: Brad James, Reece Staunton, Dan Rowe, Ben Pollock, Glen Taylor, Rob Ramshaw, Olly Dyson, Michael Ledger, Finley Shrimpton, Corey McKeown (Junior Mondal 84), Matty Dolan. 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 11th March 2025, Silverlands, Buxton (att 418).

Chelmsford City 2-1 St Albans City (National League South) I've been in Krakow over the weekend for the wife's birthday, hardly recovered from a lack of sleep, a lot of food, some alcohol and over 50,000 steps that have contributed to a very sore right foot, I'm hobbling through the pain barrier, out the door at 3pm for the first of three games in three days starting Monday evening, making up for lost time spent on a Saturday afternoon at Schindler's factory when I should have been instead working the non league circuit. It's a good two and half hour drive south to Essex as I head through the Leicestershire and Rutland countryside before hitting the A1, M11, down to Stansted where I turn off towards Chelmsford through the villages of Ford End and Great Waltham. Finally arriving for 6pm, where I have a little time to relax in the car. Chelmsford City are mid-table in the National League South, they drew 2-2 with Dorking Wanderers on Saturday and have a tedious link to Nottingham where I live. Billy Walker, the club's first manager after becoming fully professional in 1938, died in Radcliffe on Trent, just a few miles from my own house, he led Forest to their most recent FA Cup success way back in 1959. Walker was once a player who won the FA Cup with Aston Villa, The Clarets of Chelmsford, themselves have had their own relative success, four times Southern League champions, they are in their tenth season as a staple in the National League South. St Albans City have been in the division eleven years, but under Ian Culverhouse are currently fourth bottom and in the relegation places, fighting to survive, although performances recently have been uplifting, just two defeats in twelve, seven of which have been draws, their most recent on Saturday at home to Weymouth. The Venue I've parked a good five minutes walk away in the nearby housing estate after being tipped off 'the parking's crap around here' by a local scout who I know, trotting into the complex up Salerno Way, it's an athletics arena, is Melbourne Stadium. Modern looking and spacious, home to the Clarets since 2004. You enter through the turnstiles in the corner of the ground, a wide open walk behind the hammer throw netting which partially obstructs your view to the pitch, there's programme huts and wooden shacks for club shops to make it look appealing and more football-like, a huge two storey clubhouse and bar before a tall roof seated stand running lengthways. There's a pink ice cream looking truck parked outside, they do coffee and cake and it looks too hard to resist. "Can I have a coffee" I ask, "What kind?" Is the reply. I think it's the first time in 40 odd years of visiting football grounds in England I've ever been asked what kind. "Black Americano and a chocolate brownie" is my reply, before heading up towards the press seats at the back of the stand, where the view is good, but the tables are tight. So tight, all of 5ft7 and a half of me can't squeeze in, so I move a few paces to the side of the Directors seating where I've nicked an old boys regular pew, "you were here first" he tells me, as I point out I'm more than happy to move. Glad of the company, he was an ex Barton bus driver who almost moved to Nottingham in the 60s. "It could have been very different for you tonight" I tell him, "you could have been watching Ilkeston or Eastwood". He's on the Shazam app as he searches through the pre-game playlist played loudly through the PA system, as I look out onto the pitch, the view although set back from the running track that wraps around the grass, is decent, for an athletic stadium it has some quirk too, a roofed stand opposite has a clock on its centre piece, whilst I really like that behind each goal they've added small standing areas to increase the atmosphere or at least attempt it. The Game Predictably, despite those amendments the atmosphere is still flat, it always is in these places. Low applause as the players come out under the dark and slightly drizzly sky, Chelmsford in all Torino vino look aimlessly to their well marshalled one up top, the bright yellows of St Albans defend comfortably with their five at the back. It's twenty minutes before anything happens, when young Ipswich Town loanee Nico Valentine is sent through, he forces a good save from Johnson but perhaps should have done better when one on one. A few minutes later the Saints create their first opportunity, the industrious Alfie Bendle with his socks rolled down, crossing low to Woodman who can't convert goalwards. The away side looks the better team, a fella close by says "you can't tell which one is fourth bottom" as they create another opening, former Claret Castiglione forcing a fantastic diving save to his left by Ted Collins. It's a lively end to a flat first half which lacks quality in the final third, a bit of a melee on the stroke of the half leads to a couple of bookings which warms the quietest of crowds ever so slightly up a touch. The Score As expected with more to play for, the second half continues with St Albans passing and probing in the opposition half as they attack for an opener but Chelmsford now have two up top after making a half time sub. Jordan Greenidge offering Saleem Akanbi some assistance with physical presence and that extra body causes problems, a ball crossed low ends up at the feet of Akanbi inside the area who prods home scrappily into the corner of the net. It's a goal the home team have hardly deserved but it doesn't take long before St Albans are level, they've had a succession of corners tonight, most of them played short, this set piece routine passed low to Banton again who shoots hard and home from inside the area. He's a top footballer and given too much space, clinically made Chelmsford pay. That you feel is a goal that gives Ian Culverhouse's side a worthy point as the folks around me begin set off and beat the rush, whilst wishing me well on my own travels home North, but after a number of time wasting substitutions are made, the board goes up for six added, one last push by both sees Crichlow shoot agonisingly wide at one end before Charles lobs over on the break at the other, and in a frenzied added time the home team win it when Crichlow manages to strike a blow to St Albans survival chances, a 96th minute winner that all but ensures Chelmsford won't be looking over their shoulders to avoid getting sucked in towards some nervous remaining weeks of the season. The Stars Both Chelmsford and St Albans looked every bit decent mid table teams, but due to their start to the season, the Saints are far from safe, their players however impress me, Deon Woodman a left footed centre half looks to have the ability and physique to play higher, David Longe-King next to him solid, reliable, the sort of player you need in a dogfight. At left wing back I do like the look of Brandon Mason who's athletic and progressive, in midfield Alfie Bendle on loan from Colchester, had a spell at Chelmsford where I'm told he did really well, he was combative and aggressive in ball carrying and put a really big tackle in which earned him a booking, I really like him at 20 years of age and feel he'll have a good career to come. For Chelmsford, their goalkeeper Ted Collins, who joined from Colchester in the summer, looks solid for the level aged just 22. They have a young side, particularly in defence, Joe Rye on loan from Barnet doing well at centre half, left back Harry Barbrook and right winger Nico Valentine both on loan from Ipswich, have a lot of potential, but I did like Archie Tamplin in midfield who worked hard with a touch of quality in possession. The Verdict Chelmsford Manager Robbie Simpson is resigning at the end of the season, apparently he never really wanted the job, was given it as a player manager initially, did well and stayed on, but he has another business, one more secure, and he wants to concentrate on that going forward, aged 39 he's packed up a long professional playing career and has been in charge since 2020, he'll be replaced by Angelo Harrop in the summer, he reached promotion to the National League with Braintree Town last season, a few decent acquisitions and there's no reason he can't repeat that feat with the Clarets. Whether Ian Culverhouse will still be St Albans Manager by next season, may well depend on whether the club survive the drop or not? There's certainly enough in their team to suggest they will, but in the two games I've seen them play recently, they've lost to two injury time winners, which will be a devastating blow to confidence, and their points tally too. Just two points from survival with nine games to play, they still have a fighters chance, but it could go down to the final day, which is why these late points dropped could come back to haunt them. The Teams Chelmsford City: Ted Collins, Archie Tamplin, Joe Rye (Ryan Blackman 64), Harry Barbrook, Kane Crichlow, Arthur Penney (Jake Hyde 90), Charlie Ruff (Jordan Greenidge 46), Sam Oguntayo (Jake Bland 73), Nico Valentine, Saleem Akanbi, Paul Appiah. St Albans City: Michael Johnson, David Longe-King, Zane Banton, Alfie Bendle, Josh Castiglione (Olly Davis 87), Deon Woodman (Ken Charles 80), Aidan Dausch (Shaun Jeffers 81), Giorgio Rasulo (Alfie Payne 90), James Sweet, Brandon Mason, James Claridge. 7:45pm Kick Off. Monday 10th March 2025, Melbourne Stadium, Chelmsford (att 600 est)

Boston United 0-0 Oldham Athletic (National League) It's the wife's birthday on Saturday so we're off to Krakow, which means no game for me at the weekend but Boston v Oldham on a Tuesday night will hopefully see my 200th goal of the campaign in 72 matches watched so far during 2024/25. A milestone I'm excited to reach, already foaming at the mouth to see who will deliver and how. There's optimism about a great escape for the Pilgrims too, despite being nine points from safety, Boston have a couple of games in hand on most around them and unexpectedly won at the weekend, a late show saw them take all three points at Dagenham & Redbridge in an impressive 3-1 win down south. Oldham are still in the playoffs, somehow, they haven't won in five and we're beaten 3-0 by league leaders Barnet at Boundary Park on Saturday. They've slipped under my radar somewhat having not yet seen them play this season, unsure if they have a few injuries of late? They have recalled loan star Jes Uchegbulam who was on the bench for Eastleigh at the Jakemans a couple of weeks back and have former Pilgrim Tom Donaghy in net, he signed from Fleetwood in February and is yet to help his side win, having played two games on loan for United earlier this season. I've climbed into the car after watching India chase down an Australian target of 265 in the cricket, off to my sister's for a quick cuppa before heading east for the rest of my journey, sun setting in the west it's been a gorgeous day, a lovely week so far, it feels spring is starting to kick in to gear. The Venue I'm early tonight so nip in to Burger King for a Bacon Double Cheeseburger meal where I overhear a conversation between a couple of Boston and Oldham fans discussing their clubs form. It seems United's fans are happier with their Manager Graham Coughlan despite being deep down the bottom end of the National League than the Latics are with Nicky Mellon of late. Over the road the circular lights of the Boston Community Stadium light up the darkening sky, my usual walk across the car park is shared with fans with optimism, one says to his mate "were gonna bloody smash em tonight". Ticket received and turnstile entered, I grab a quick cuppa and kit kat before watching ten minutes of Villa at Bruges in the Champions League on the TV under the stand's concourse, then up to my seat in the press area which is surrounded by bags and suitcases for various bits of equipment tonight. James from Cleethorpes is here, he's a Grimsby fan and scout who I regularly sit with at Boston, behind me the radio Lincolnshire team with former Boston and Bradford striker Peter Costello co-comms. The pitch beneath in fine green nick, flat and healthy like you would expect on the 1st August. The crowd near full it looks, a good atmosphere being created by both home and away. The Game Boston go unchanged from their win at Daggers, Oldham throw Uchegbulam straight in up front, it's a healthy battle is the first half but chances are few and far between, Boston you feel have a resurgence of confidence, they battle hard, harder than Oldham who have that bit more quality, but it's hard to tell which team is in the playoffs and which is fighting relegation. Jacob Hazel has the best opportunities, he races clear and does well to get a shot off when up against several defenders on his own, his effort deflecting wide which wrong footed Donaghy, before he blazed over what looked like an easy chance from close range after Knowles forced the goalkeeper into action. Oldham hardly troubling Cameron Gregory in the Pilgrims goal despite lively runs from Pritchard and Worthington who carried the ball beautifully at times. The Score It's a question at half time, "would it be a good point for Boston" who look slightly the better team, with results not going there way, it feels like a decent result as it stands but in the grand scheme, perhaps Oldham are there for the taking? But early in the second half Oldham produce their best move of the game, slick passing by Ogle and Worthington who crosses low for Fondop who can only drill wide, on 67 Uchegulam shoots straight at Gregory who is comfortable to claim into his chest, the Latics fans then sign "we've had a shot". The travelling away support of 273 aren't happy, they are by now signing "Nicky Mellon, your football is sh*t"... As Boston have a good spell where they press for an opener. That looks to arrive when a delightful ball by Dylan Hill is crossed to the back post, Jai Rowe heading home but the linesman's flag is quick to go up, Rowe coming from behind looked impossible to be called off? A bad call and one that could in the end cost Boston survival. Late on, Oldham had their best spell of pressure as the home side looked to get men behind the ball for a point, a free kick by Fondop the closest they would come, his curling dipping effort from the edge of the area didn't dip enough, cannoning out off the top of the crossbar, fine margins on the night, but perhaps neither did enough to win the game outright. The Stars Boston's fans seemed happy and appreciative of their teams performance when the Referee finally blew his whistle to end the match, their good form under Coughlan now reads twelve points from their last nine games, conceding much less than earlier in the season, that form may have coincided with the return of goalkeeper Cameron Gregory who is as solid as they come at the level. In defence, Jai Rowe on the right has probably been their player of the season, Zak Mills has steadied the ship as a makeshift centre half since missing parts through injury, he reads the game so well, as does young Connor Teale who myself, and my friend from Grimsby, sat besides me, thinks will go on to have a very good career indeed. In midfield, Dylan Hill and Frankie Maguire are tiresome with their work, and notable was the improved fitness levels of striker Jacob Hazel, who now playing every week, looks leaner, fitter and far more effective with confidence, as is Brad Nicholson who returned to Boston from Scunthorpe United where he wasn't getting in, the Boston players remember, unlike many in the National League, are only part-time, but that didn't show on the night, with great energy levels employed against very good opposition. As for those good opponents, an experienced team with decent players in all departments, they have an impressive young left back in Jake Leake, in defence Charlie Raglan was solid at centre half next to Shaun Hobson, Reagan Ogle is a right back I always like the look of, the Australian spending the last couple of seasons previously at Scunthorpe, he gets up and down well, in midfield Tom Pett, picking up the ball deep and breaking down the opponents play, is a classy little number, whilst the lively Joe Pritchard, a player I scouted at MK Dons who he recently signed from, is a footballer who plays with energy and is always looking to create in the final third. In attack, the leggy Mike Fondop, a journeyman at the level, was a threat when supplied with service which he didn't get a lot of, he was inches away on a couple of occasions to adding to his tally of 15 goals for the season. The Verdict I didn't get the goal I wanted, stuck on 199, but whilst the point was perhaps two dropped for both clubs, I think when all said and done, it'll be remembered as a good point for each. Oldham are still in with a shout of the playoffs, whilst Boston still have slim hopes of staying up. The Teams Boston United: Cameron Gregory, Cameron Green, Jacob Hazel (James Gale 70), Jai Rowe, Connor Teale, Brad Nicholson, Jimmy Knowles (Adam Marriott 70), Jordan Richards, Frankie Maguire (Keaton Ward 70), Zak Mills, Dylan Hill. Oldham Athletic: Tom Donaghy, Reagan Ogle, Charlie Raglan, Shaun Hobson, Jake Leake, Tom Pett, Tom Conlon (Jordan Rossiter 55), Joe Pritchard, Matt Worthington (Billy Waters 73), Jes Uchegbulam (Vimal Yoganathan 79), Mike Fondop. 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 4th March 2025, Jakemans Stadium, Boston (att 1,695).