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Hartlepool United 0-1 Kidderminster Harriers (National League) Storm Jocelyn is heading east. We've already had Isha after a firm week of ice cold temperatures had me moved from York to Ilkeston on Saturday, by the time I had already set off and reached Pontefract I was told to come back home, today I'm concerned that going to Hartlepool in 'amber warning' winds might be a journey that has similar outcome. No news is good news though and none appears to say the match is in doubt, in fact the news around these parts is that Kevin Phillips, remember him? Well he's just gone and got the Hartlepool job whilst Phil Brown, remember him? Another ghost of Premier League past, well he made his debut in the Kidderminster dugout on Saturday. Bottom of the table Harriers won that match v Aldershot 4-2 and Hartlepool will be looking for a similar outcome with their new man at the helm, they actually beat Eastleigh at the weekend and sit thirteenth in the division ahead of kick off. Two teams in form with new bosses of pedigree to whet the appetite. It's a good three-hour drive is Hartlepool so I'm on the road for 3pm heading up the M1 and A1 before coming off for the A168 (A19) and Thirsk, the traffic picks up in Middlesbrough as I pass the oddly attractive Tees Newport Bridge which is all lit up in blue before reaching Hartlepool for shortly after 6pm, it's cold, dark, wet, and there’s not much happening around on Stockton Street. The Venue I've pulled up on Lancaster Street and walk across the Middleton Road (which takes you down to the docks) and down Clarence Road where stewards are putting up road closed signs. Floodlights in the background, the classic old fashioned type, huge pylons lighting the skies above industrial roofs, I'm in at reception in a building which looks like an old barn, where I ask for my ticket, I'm handed a white paper envelope by a chap with a southern accent and am told to walk around the back of the stand where a steward will let me in. I'm walking through the club car park behind the Rink End as the rain lashes down, the wind howling as I knock on the gate and shout 'take me somewhere warm'. The steward points me to the back of the stand where the press area runs the length of the pitch, a cracking view unrestricted and set back, elevated, there's a couple of Kidderminster players running out in the rain as I take a look around and at the lush surface below in really good nick. No concerns about the pitch quality, the only concerns are the heavens above. There’s a couple of flag poles to my left in the corner of the ground, they’re making a rattle as the wind roars and rain clatters the back of the stand, it’s a cracking place to play football, the stand I’m in feels like something you’ll see at a race course, seated at the top it runs parallel with the pitch, standing room only at the bottom, behind each goal has low roofed stands, terraced to my right, seated to my left, opposite the Cyril Knowles Stand has blue and white seating with the letters HUFC carved out of them. The Game The rain has calmed before kick off, the stadium under half full, 55 have made the long journey up from Kidderminster and as the match starts at a canter, I’ve a feeling the whisking, whirling wind will seriously ruin this one. I’ve not had a nil nil on my travels all season, will tonight be the first? I’m predicting it probably will. Kiddy are set up to frustrate, they take their time with set plays and are awkward but combative, playing the typical away day ‘defend and break’ with some no nonsense football which is very much ‘playing to the conditions’ which hardly allow for anything else. Hartlepool in fairness try to knock it about a bit, but too many sloppy passes go astray, the crowd already on their players backs and there’s not yet ten minutes gone. It’s a hostile place is this and they don’t like sideways football the locals? A proper working mans football club, the fans here chat to another before the match, they all seem to know each other and it’s more than just another match, I think they actually like to moan and come to football just to do that, but it rubs off on the away side who grow in confidence as the United energy saps with every mistake made. ‘Rubbish, ‘Shit, Gerrit forward’ are frequent cries from below. On 33 Hartlepool do get it forward and Duffus running through is dragged down inside the area, the Referee probably should award a penalty and red card but gives neither to provoke more disgruntlement and outrage with the home support, they’re fuming with the verdict as Kiddy play on. Boos eventually filtering out loudly towards the North Sea. The Score Other than that huge penalty incident the first half has nothing doing but for a couple of half sniffs at each end, Kidderminster I feel will be happier as I chomp on a half eaten bar of Tony’s Chocolate and finish my second pack of Mentos which I brought at Ilkeston on Saturday. Before I know it the second half is underway and Kidderminster continue to frustrate, the elegant Mancini who dictated the Hartlepool play in the first half has no real options in front of him, he’s trying hard as is left winger Joe Grey to make things happen but it’s too often slow, pedestrian, predictable, as the Harriers defence cope well with everything played in front of them. By now the wind is playing havoc, goal kicks from one end are going straight out of play at the other, whilst some are curling back to where they came from, it’s been a real task just placing the ball down and it’s more often out than in play, but every time a player get’s it wide I’m shouting ‘put it in the box’ as something is bound to give. On 66 Ashley Hemmings does just that. He’s been brilliant down the right and has been the one forward playing Kidderminster star trying to make things happen. He’s curled it in on his left foot as sub Amari Morgan-Smith tries to nod home, the ball evades the striker and whips into the bottom right corner, there’s confusion as the PA and everybody else, credits the goal to Morgan-Smith, I have it down as Hemmings goal, wind assist. That goal leads to the inevitable frustration inside the ground, the home support are back on the players backs, 'You're Shit' one shouts as Parkes slices the ball out of play, some say it’s boiled over frustration for a pending take over that is seemingly never going to happen, but I feel this just a Hartlepool thing. If I bring a side here, I would play off it, and I reckon by setting up to frustrate, that my side would get something, more often than not, tonight Phil Brown shown all his years of managerial experience to influence a deserved win for the better side on the night, it was basic football and hardly enthralling, they don't care. Kiddy off the bottom and now four points from safety. Is the great escape very much on? If Brown pulls this one off, it could be his greatest achievement of all? The Stars Young French number eight Anthony Mancini despite being on the losing side, took my eye as the one player that oozes real class. A part eight, part ten, he’s a midfield playmaking hybrid type who’s an inverted winger who likes to come inside, float about and get on the ball in pockets, his biggest issue on the night, he had nobody of any quality in front of him, centre forward Duffus lacked pace and movement, whilst no one from midfield was that bothered about getting beyond the ball. Joe Grey looked like he had ability on the left and linked well at times with Mancini, Kieran Wallace who’s a highly experienced player, had a night to forget, Tom Crawford similarly who’s silky on the ball, at times, was too often terrible, at others, he frustrated from a wider position than usual, Nicky Featherstone did play his 400th game for Pools but it certainly wasn’t one to remember. For Kidderminster, Ashley Hemmings was direct, cutting in from the right wing and is in some goalscoring form of late, whilst defensively they were superb. Centre halves Penny & McNally in particular coping with the conditions and enjoying their roles to kick, hook and head everything away, Caleb Richards, a left back who was asked to play a more inverted defensive role, showing he can adjust when asked, a player still only 25 who should be playing higher than he currently is. The Verdict Will Phil Brown achieve the impossible with Kidderminster Harriers, having won two out of two he certainly gives his side a chance. It’s an ambitious appointment and one that I can only see working in the Worcestershire sides favour. Whether Kevin Phillips will have the same effect on Hartlepool I don’t know? I think there’s more underlying issues at this club that need resolving, and personally think the Manager is on a hiding to nothing. Currently sat thirteenth they are too good to go down, but they are seven points off relegation, and seven points off the playoffs, in the midst of no mans land.. Which incidentally, is where I’m heading off to next, as I brave the wind and rain during my three hour journey home. The Teams Hartlepool United: Joel Dixon, David Ferguson, Manny Onariase, Luke Hendrie, Tom Parkes, Nicky Featherstone, Kieran Wallace (Louis Stephenson 77), Anthony Mancini, Joe Grey (Christopher Wreh 80), Tom Crawford, Courtney Duffus (Callum Cooke 69). Kidderminster Harriers: Christian Dibble, Alex Penny, Matt Preston, Reiss McNally, Caleb Richards, Sam Bellis, Zak Brown, Shayne Byrne, Jack Lambert (Owen Hesketh 76), Ashley Hemmings (Christian Oxlade Chamberlain 88), Gold Omotayo (Amari Morgan-Smith 60). 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 23rd January 2024. Victoria Park, Hartlepool (att 3,289).

Ilkeston Town 4-1 Basford United (Northern Premier League) It was meant to be York. I’ve dropped the dog off at the mothers-in-law’s for 11am and set off up the M1 and M18 hitting the A1 in the full know that the Minster Men have decided to delay a pitch inspection for their National League game until 12pm, when myself, and more importantly the AFC Fylde players, staff and supporters, have already set off. It’s non sensical but I understand the clubs urge to leave it as late as possible, surely however a 10am, even 11am pitch inspection could have saved all this trouble? By the time I’m close to an adult store near Pontefract I’m told the match is off and I’m re-routing off the A1 to head back south for another game closer to home. Initially the bosses gave me Kidderminster v Aldershot which is in actual fact Phil Brown’s first Harriers game in charge, but I wouldn’t be making the West Midlands in time so I’m mildly content when I’m given Ilkeston Town v Basford United instead, a local derby where just six miles separates the two teams, and with all the other postponements today, there might just be a decent crowd in the borough of Erewash to warm up the cockles on a cold winters afternoon. The Venue I’ve pulled up outside at 1:30pm having exited the M1 at junction 26 and off the A610 where I’m slowed by some traffic for Ikea, a scout who I was speaking to earlier already had his game called off at Alfreton and was looking for something to do, he said ‘it’ll probably be a trip to IKEA with the Mrs?’ Thankfully my wife is away in Bath and I don’t have that pleasure thanks to the get out of jail card supplied to instead be at the New Manor Ground. I’ve walked in, paid £12 on the door and grabbed a cuppa (£1.50) and a three pack of mento’s that the kiosk is selling for £1. Before walking around to the ‘famous’ Clock Tower stand which offers an elevated view. There’s a BBC Radio Derby student setting up as I park my bits down, a quaint view of the ground perched high, a bitty, bobby, quirky football venue that really gets the atmosphere going when full, it’s quiet now but soon it won’t be. The Game I’m joined by the Basford media team and one of them Louis, is on radio comms today, it’s all a bit toasty as we are packed into one row as the wind chills in from the side, United in all amber have ‘several’ ex Robins in their makeup, Henri Wilder (Chris’s lad), Kieran Fenton, Jack Thomas, Remaye Campbell, Nathan Tyson, all springing to mind having previously worn red pretty recently too. For that, I wonder if they’ll be up for proving a point? Or will it be Ilkeston who fly out of the traps? Derby days can be unpredictable especially when you have a cross over of players, but it soon becomes apparent, only one team look up for it today. After just three minutes a partially cleared corner is shot back by Connor Dixon on the edge of the area and takes a nick, or two, one of which is a leg of Jamie Walker who deflects an effort that bobbles over the line, from that moment on it’s Ilkeston’s day, the home side in control are the aggressors, the enforcers, and they dominate a one sided first half. A succession of corners has them finally score a second when Walker heads home number two. Declan Errat-Thompson then makes it three with a calm touch and finish from outside the box, by half time the match is all but over. The Score I’m chatting to Mark who’s leaving the media team at Basford United to take a job at the LMA who are based in St Georges Park, there’s a new lad who’ll replace him, making his debut in the admin team today and he’s already getting the blame for his side being 3-0 down. No sooner does the second half commence that three ‘we think’ becomes four. Curson is sent through by a Basford player and slides home before celebrating with his team-mates, only for the officials to change their mind on giving the goal to call offside. It matters not though, Jamie Walker makes it four to round off a good days work for him, he’s subbed having secured the matchball before Nathan Tyson pulls one back late on. The former Forest man who’s off the bench drills in a consolation after another substitute, Matt Thornhill, curls a free kick against the bar. Thornhill returning from injury was one of the few positives on a poor day for the visitors. That poor day got worse in added time when Owen Betts was sent off for a second booking, a 4-1 thumping in the derby, not one to remember for those travelling back down the A610, nor those who listened in to Louis’s fine commentary. The Stars Jamie Walker will rightly take the plaudits and he’s a striker I really like, a number nine with a touch of class, that bit of elegance, I’ve likened him to being van Basten-esque in the past and although that’s exuberant, it’s based on how he plays more to the levels he’s at, but he’s certainly a player, who at the level he’s at, is one of the best at what he does. Another star shining everytime I watch, Declan Errat-Thompson was superb in midfield and took his goal well. Away from the scorers however we must mention the running and constant workrate of Lindon Miekle, the former Stag signed only a couple of weeks ago for Ilkeston and was apparently superb in the win at Worksop, he was equally as effective verses Basford, and is the sort of player who will instantly boost his sides levels by leading from example whether it be as a forward or from midfield. L'varn Brandy was a speedy and technical nuisance on the left wing whilst Sam Parker combined with him well from left back, Basford United might not have provided their best performance of the season but I do see things I like in Jack Lewis, Mason Frizelle, Rev James, Remaye Campbell, they’ll have better days to come, today was just not it. The Verdict Ilkeston are tenth and I would not write off a late playoff push. They are eight points adrift of the promotion pushing pack though so a lot of work to do, they are well clear of relegation though and with some positive performances of late, could be a dangerous animal playing with freedom under Ian Deakin, a side currently going out each week, with nothing to lose. Basford are still five clear themselves off the drop zone, they’ll need to keep those below them at arms length, I’m sure they’ll do it, but if they were unlucky to lose in midweek against Radcliffe, they certainly deserved their fate today. The Teams Ilkeston Town: Matthew Yates, James Perch, Sam Parker, Declan Errat-Thompson, Tom Marshall, Luke Cox, L'Varn Brandy (Tyrell Waite 88), Connor Dixon (Alex Marshall 58), Tom Curson, Lindon Miekle, Jamie Walker (Larell King 80). Basford United: Kieran Preston, Dom Roma (Owen Betts 33), Henri Wilder, Jack Lewis, Mason Frizelle, Kieran Fenton, Toby Ritzema (Nathan Tyson 57), Jack Thomas (Matt Thornhill 55), Remaye Campbell, Rev James, Josh Barnes. 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 20th January 2024, New Manor Ground, Ilkeston (att 1,360).

Leicester City 0-1 Aston Villa (Women’s Super League) There’s a frost gripping the nation and games up and down the country are falling foul to the weather, tomorrow, let alone tonight. But there’s clarity that Leicester v Aston Villa in the WSL will go ahead, and with very good reason too. Leicester are loaning Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium for the game, in return, Leicester will give Burton a huge plastic sheet that will cover the pitch, and also heat the grass underneath nice and warm, allowing Burton to stage their league match on Saturday against Charlton. Genius, killing two birds with one stone, well done Leicester and well done to Burton for both clubs rubbing their heads together and getting games on. After all, that's what we want... Isn't it? So after the winter break and last week’s return to action in the women’s FA Cup we are back in the WSL and the first match of round eleven of the second half of the league season, a few new faces in the Foxes team with Japanese duo Takarada and Momiki making debuts last weekend in the comfortable win against Derby which I was at and enjoyed, for Villa, they were thumped at home to Everton in the cup and will be looking to bounce back, in the league they won their last two matches and are a point and a place below Leicester in the table after what has been following last seasons exploits, a really poor first half of their campaign. The Venue I’m out the door and down the A50 for an ETA of 6pm, Burton is only down the road and can be reached in just over half an hour from my house, off at the A38 and following Sat Nav down the Derby Road I pass a McDonalds and the Beech Public House before seeing the lights of the Pirelli in the background. There’s a queue for the car park so I’m double backing as I pull up opposite an Esso Garage, parking the car on the grass verge next to a sign for Greggs the bakers, before walking to the stadium where I purchase a ticket for £8. Once inside there’s another queue for food a  good twenty deep so I avoid that delight and head straight for my seat, I’m walking across the Carling Stand hopping over the cushioned Director seats and the media section behind the dugout to the second block, back row and out of trouble, where I park myself in a quiet spot. It’s a cracking ground is the Pirelli, this the only seated stand whilst the other three are terraces roofed for standing, flags pinned up against the walls to give it a real ‘cult’ feel. It’s always been a warm welcoming place and is a good venue for feeling close to the action. You can hear almost every word on the pitch. The Game The first half is a competitive ding dong with both sides evenly matched, it takes Villa just seventeen minutes to break the deadlock when Rachel Daly takes two stabs at it to bury home from inside the box. Leicester are game and offer scary moments but Villa are the better team, Adriana Leon is a menace down the right whilst goalscorer Daly never gives her Leicester opponents an inch, she chases everything down and puts in a proper centre forwards performance, I like her, you feel if Leicester had a Rachel Daly in their line up it might be them who were 1-0 up? The Score At half time the foxes make two substitutes and they improve and attack through Canadian winger Deanne Rose, she’s quick and skilful and should have had a goal or two, she blazes over when left unmarked at the back post before running one on one and forcing a save by van Domselaar as the rebound is cleared off the line, Leicester pushing, probing, but not having that ‘striking quality’ to level up proceedings. Rose is good but she has to do better with her finishing. Those chances are the best Leicester can create and Villa in the end see out the game by defending resolutely and solid, but on the ball they are good too, they keep it well and can slow things down to their own pace which frustrates the crowd, it's a victory they deserve for being the better and wiser team having took the lead early on and held firm, but credit Leicester who had the better chances on the night, enough to perhaps win the match themselves. The Stars Rachel Daly put in that typical and expected forwards shift of hers and got a deserved match winning goal as her reward for hard work. Leon in the first half especially, caused a threat, but defensively, credit Anna Patten, Rachel Corsie and co, who stood firm to reduce only a couple of saves for their goalkeeper to make. At the other end, Janina Leitzig made one good save one on one from Leon and she’s a shot stopper who always impresses me. Sam Tierney again putting a dependable shift in whilst debutant midfielder Saori Takarada who played well last weekend in the cup v Derby, shown intelligence in the middle of the park, a holding midfielder type who plays the ball simple and shows for the short pass. She gives Leicester better shape to a side that likes to push forward and attack in numbers, which can at times leave them short to the break themselves. The Verdict I rate Villa and their squad has enough depth to improve their position in the table, whether or not they have enough goals in them I don’t know? But they play good football, defend pretty well and in midfield they are strong and combative, they should be higher than they are in the division, maybe 2024 they can push back up the league after what has been a slow start to the season so far. Leicester likewise are solid, competitive, well drilled, just lacking that cutting edge on the night, they’ll certainly be ok in the division, and perhaps this banana skin aside, they can start to improve on their own league position in time. The Teams Leicester City: Janina Leitzig, Sophie Howard (Josie Green 46), Julie Thibaud, Janice Cayman, Sam Tierney, Jutta Rantala (Deanne Rose 46), Saori Takarada, Courtney Nevin (Ava Baker 86), Yuka Momiki, Lena Petermann (Aileen Whelan 74), Shannon O'Brien (Missy Goodwin 64). Aston Villa: Daphne van Domselaar, Sarah Mayling, Anna Patten, Rachel Corsie, Noelle Maritz (Mayumi Facehco 64), Kenza Dali (Jordan Nobbs 89), Lucy Staniforth, Laura Blinkilde, Adriana Leon, Rachel Daly, Alisha Lehmann (Kirsty Hanson 65). 7:00pm Kick Off. Friday 19th January 2024, Pirelli Stadium, Burton (att 500 est).

Basford United 1-3 Radcliffe (Northern Premier League) I’ve been cricket scoring for the bet markets today, sat in my pyjamas until lunchtime watching Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixes on Sky Sports in the Big Bash down under, an incredible game that went to the wire with Sydney winning off the last ball of the match. Because of that I hardly noticed the cold until I took the dog out for a late teatime walk, bloody Baltic as I trawl through Twitter (X) and notice one or two weather scalps. Not at Basford though, one thing these 3 and 4g pitches do is guarantee games, no doubt about tonight’s match, it’s most definitely on. Radcliffe are flying high. Top of the tree under former Salford City duo Bernard Morley and Anthony Johnson, they have a cracking side and have been playing brilliant football I’m told. My first viewing of them myself, against a team I know quite a bit about. James Jepson’s United have climbed out of the relegation zone in recent weeks, the young new manager knows a thing or two about the level and has played a blinder thus far since taking the hot seat at Greenwich Avenue, earlier this season. I’m off after the wife hands me a plate of Gusto Risotto, 6:30pm out the door and down the Nottingham Ring Road to Basford, it’s quiet and I arrive within 15 minutes where I park outside the gates, allowing myself a quick getaway. The Venue I’m walking through the car park saying hello to a couple of stewards before reaching for the turnstile behind the goal, a young girl notices my Green Bay Packers hat, I tell her “it’s colder here than it is in Green Bay tonight”. My intention is to sit with the media team as I know a couple of lads at Basford but as I walk past the players changing room I notice a small table with three people already sitting down, not a great view, not a great choice? I’m pondering sitting in the only seated stand on offer, around thirty seats four rows high down one side of the pitch, before finding a wooden beer garden table and bench to sit on and fill out the teams. There’s a good half hour until kick off, players out doing their warm ups on the synthetic surface as I sip a flask of tea and eat a time out, lowly lit lights under cold dark skies, hardly a soul inside the ground, the one stand to my left has seats mainly for directors, to my right nothing bar netting stopping balls going into the River Leen, opposite nothing apart from the dugouts and a small covered terrace top left, behind the goal to the left does have a bit of cover but if you don’t like a touchline view it’s not a great ground to tick off on your list. I’ve been here twice on cold Tuesday nights recently and have not enjoyed either visit particularly much. The Game I’ve moved over to the side of the away team dugout as the two teams come out and I’m again called out on my Green Bay Packers hat, they beat Dallas Cowboys last night in the NFL Playoffs and it seems everyone is talking about them, there’s a fair few around me now, all on the touchline, the right flank invisible due to the traffic in the technical area, the freeze working its way down to my toes as I dance around to get some blood circling. Basford start well, they look half decent, certainly better than Radcliffe who I expected more from. The away side look good in their retro Wimbledon 88 blue kit with yellow trim but they don’t look up for being here, they left Manchester where it was thick with snow, I feel the last thing they want is ‘a battle’ tonight as their Manager Morley shouts ‘you’re in one’ telling his troops to ‘work harder’. What I like about Basford is they are first to everything, putting their foot in early and hoofing it long where they have three relatively quick lads on the break, it’s simple football but for long parts works as Radcliffe try and play out from the back before lacking ideas in the final third. On 27 minutes United get a deserved goal, a loose pass by Brockbank is latched on to by the pacey Nathan Tyson, the ball falls to Jack Lewis and comes loose to Remaye Cambpell who curls a beauty right footed into the top corner, a belting goal by a player who’s proved on many occasion he’s more than capable. Moments later Campbell goes up for a header aggressively against Rick Smith, a good old fashioned challenge, pumped up after his goal, Smith has come off worse off whilst Morley on the touchline shouts ‘foul’. “If you do that again” he calls to Campbell “you’ll get your teeth knocked out.” I doubt the big number nine is particularly scared? Campbell looks a player very much from the streets, rough edged and rugged I doubt he's concerned by a middle aged bald man calling him out. The Score I’m expecting one way traffic in the second half but the traffic is mostly at the far end as Basford search for another goal, they have a couple of sniffs and near misses, some oohs and aahs from the 274 in attendance but they can’t get a second goal which will be a killer blow to Radcliffe’s title credentials, it would also be a major scalp in the search for survival which Manager Jepson is looking for. Radcliffe make three subs though which gives them an injection of pace, more direct down the flanks they win a couple of corners, most are dealt well but one particular right wing centre on 80 is only half cleared, Jude Oyibo on the edge of the box has time to pick his corner and drills back low and hard, a get out of jail card for Radcliffe who’ve hardly deserved their leveller. Late on, the board goes up for five minutes extra as Basford retreat worryingly deep, they allow the away side some concealed pressure and can’t get out of their box, a clumsy challenge inside the area on Oyibo has his fellow substitute Hancock the chance to convert from the spot, his low driven penalty has goalkeeper Preston palm it into the side of the net and Radcliffe go crazy, their dugout all run to the corner to celebrate an unlikely and underserved win, but that’s what champions elect are perhaps made of? There’s time for one more, as Basford go searching aimlessly Oyibo breaks again, he’s been the star since coming on for the last 25 minutes and he crosses low to the third sub Ewan Bange to also get on the scoresheet, if ever football was a squad game, tonight would be it. The Stars It was hard to be impressed by anyone from Radcliffe, a team with a good reputation and some good players who are used to higher levels of football, solid and workmanlike, staying in the game was as good as they offered, before the quick and direct Oyibo was unleashed off the bench. Jordan Hulme their star striker was kept relatively quiet, as was the skilful Luca Navarro, Willem Tomlinson in midfield along with their goalkeeper Mateusz Hewelt, the best of an average bunch, until Oyibo, Hancock and Bange came on. For Basford, they deserved so much more, and they have a team that now looks like it’s a middle table team, as opposed to the relegation fodder they had at the start of the campaign. Defensively they were excellent, Dom Roma solid at right back, Fenton and Frizelle heading and clearing (almost) everything at centre half, the big and small midfield duo of Jack Thomas and Jack Lewis, providing plenty of fight, whilst in Wafula, Tyson and Campbell they provided an awkward trio in attack, squad depth might be the key ingredient missing should one or two of their assets get injured. The Verdict I no doubt feel Basford have enough to stay up on that showing, do I wonder if Radcliffe have enough to win the league? Probably not? I consider tonight an off night for them, an off night which they came through with three points, and if they can win whilst playing badly, that’s usually a very good sign for champions elect. The Teams Basford United: Kieran Preston, Dom Roma, Henri Wilder, Jack Lewis, Mason Frizelle, Kieran Fenton, Josh Barnes, Jack Thomas, Remaye Campbell, Jonathan Wafula, Nathan Tyson (Owen Betts 81). Radcliffe: Mateusz Hewelt, Brad Jackson, Scott Duxbury, Willem Tomlinson, Olly Thornley, Rick Smith, Harry Brockbank (Jude Oyibo 67), Nick Adams, Jordan Hulme, Anthony Dudley (Ewan Bange 75), Luca Navarro (Josh Hancock 67). 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 16th January 2024, Greenwich Avenue, Nottingham (att 274).

Bishop's Stortford 2-3 South Shields (National League North) Plane spotting at football grounds is becoming a thing. On Saturday I got a perfect picture of them taking off and landing at Birmingham Airport from Solihull's Armco Arena, tonight it's Stansted and the nearest ground to the popular Essex holidaymakers Airport, Woodside Park at Bishop's Stortford is a stones throw away either side of junction 8 of the M11. I've been scoring cricket games in New Zealand overnight on TV for the bet markets and my sleep pattern is all over the place. I've had my third siesta of the day and leave at 4pm with plenty of time to run the 2 hour journey, across the A52 and onto the A1 before following signs down the A14 past Cambridge towards Stansted and I'm making good tracks just nine miles away it's 6pm... But suddenly Sat Navs taken my ETA up over an hour. There's an accident and traffic is standstill. Rumour is the South Shields team bus is in it ahead of me, they left at lunchtime and had two stop offs at Wetherby and Peterborough before hitting this incident, luckily they get through as I tweet them to 'wait for me' and I'm told they arrived at the stadium only 40 minutes before kick off. Still stuck in it myself I'm panicking but can't turn back. I only need the next junction where the ground is situated just off the A120. Finally I'm moving and the last few miles are a whizz in and out, I'm not hanging around as I dart through the lanes and get to within yards of the ground before missing the last bloody turning, that's added another five minutes on, but finally I pull up in an industrial area, opting to kerb the motor outside the gates of the venue rather than pay £3 parking charge. The Venue I'm rushing around like mad as I head to the turnstile, there's around twenty minutes before kick off as I ask a girl on the gate "where can I collect my press pass". She points me to around the corner of the clubhouse and a little white door, where a man is on hand to cross me off his list. "What's your name he says" as I splutter out of breath. "You can talk" he says... "Bloody traffic" I reply. I discuss the scheduling and travelling in the league with an old club committee member and the fact that he still doesn't know how Bishop's Stortford is located in the north explains a lot. "A lot of our players from last season have gone to Billericay" he tells me "we can't get anyone to play for us as they don't want to do all the travelling". He points me inside the clubhouse to the turnstile entrance and I walk up to a seat at the back of the stand, it's modern and spacious here, players out on the pitch already the stand I'm in is seated with a good view but it's bloody cold. I'm sat down with a desk for my notepad opposite is a small seated stand with a makeshift TV gantry on its roof, either side has two small roofed terraces, behind that there's workmen standing on a cherry picker with its flashing amber light watching the action, the local area is full of roadworks which caught me out earlier in missing my turning off the A120. The Game I'm joined by a couple of young lads from the South Shields media team. One is only sixteen, a new starter who's yet to see them win, the other it's his 21st birthday today. "What better way to spend it than sit eight hours on a bus" I say. The two teams are out as South Shields in crisp white start by strutting the ball casually between them. Bishop's in blue are lacking confidence at the foot of the league but Shields haven't been great of late. As I ask one of the young lads 'how have you played recently' he simply replies back "crap". This might be the game they need though and I'm already seeing joy for their striker Paul Blackett who's running off the shoulder has the centre halves treading water with half hearted offside appeals. The Score Blackett actually opens the scoring on 17, finishing off a good move with a stunning strike on the break, but the home side who I saw play half decent at Peterborough a couple of weeks back, are game, technically good going forward they have some real attacking threat and in Gio McGregor, Osman Sow and Kane Crichlow are causing trouble for the visitors defence. They crack a post and force a good save before a cross causes mayhem for debutant keeper Seymour who's already had a shaky moment in dealing with a back pass. He's fumbled one straight in to his net but is saved by the referees whistle, half the fans think she's pointed for a goal but it's a harshly awarded free kick against Sow. It matters not though as a minute later Crichlow smashes home a cracker. That goal levels things at half time as the two South Shields juniors head off for a burger. I'm left chatting to the locals who are a friendly bunch. Resigned to relegation they feel it'll be good to be back playing locally and no more trips to Northumberland, "at least you've chalked off a few new grounds this season" I tell them. The second half seems to be flat as both sides struggle to impose themselves with any real quality, the weather is chillingly cold and the fans are yet to find their voice, but a chance on 69 has those behind the goal start singing again. "Allez Les blues" leads to an up turn in pressure from the hosts and suddenly Foxley is through, he hits hard, low and puts Bishop's 2-1 up. That goal should be enough on 76 and you can't say they've not deserved it, but no soon as the Manager decides to go five at the back does his side concede, a short corner after some good previous defending has them switched totally off, Woods with time and space, too much, to pick his spot from inside the area. That naivety in Stortford's side is the reason they're relegation fodder and the writing is on the wall as South Shields grab a late and predictable winner. "Why can't we facking hold on to a lead" one of their fans shouts. Many more start heading for the doors as the away team celebrate a second Michael Woods goal. The Stars South Shields are a better team than their league position states, so are Bishop's for that matter but they have players much younger, much less experienced, but with coaching and alongside those that know how, some could certainly go on to flourish, in particular Gio McGregor, a talented and speedy right sider who frustrates more often than not, but has the pace and technique to be a really good asset in a creative or counter-attacking team. Speaking of assets, young Emmanuel Oke, a thick set big guy of a centre half who impressed me at Peterborough, he played holding midfield and the game passed him by, there's something about him though, as there is Mbunya Alemanji a striker who came off the bench at 1-1 and helped his side get back on the front foot. For South Shields, right back CJ Clarke impressed me as did Robert Briggs in midfield and the busy looking Paul Blackett in attack. Gary Liddle at 37 years young however the cream of their crop. Almost 800 games deep into his career you can tell he loves football and he leads from centre half by a real good professional and humble example. The Verdict Apparently it's Bishop's 150th year anniversary this season and it's not been one to remember. They need to get back to Southern League football and perhaps they are destined for the Isthmian where at least they'll get some local derbies and hopefully some players back too. For South Shields, almost every game is a trek of unsociable distance, they have Hereford, Gloucester and Banbury still to play. Better equipped for the division though, if they get out of this league anytime soon, which is a long shot, I feel it's more likely by gaining promotion to the National League than it is, being relegated back to the NPL. The Teams Bishop's Stortford: Jack Giddens, Riccardo Di Trolio, Sam Robbins, Harry Beadle, Gio McGregor (Aaron Greene 53), Kane Crichlow, Darren Foxley, Ethan Burnett (Mbunya Alemanji 63), Emmanuel Oke, Osman Sow, Asher Falase (Jack Thomas 80). South Shields: Kyle Seymour, Blair Adams, Gary Liddle, Martin Smith, Robert Briggs, Paul Blackett, Michael Woods, Aaron Martin (Dan Savage 60), Jed Abbey (Mackenzie Heaney 71), Courtney Clarke, Tom Broadbent. 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 9th January 2024, Woodside Park, Bishop's Stortford (att 290).

Derby County 0-4 Leicester City (Women's FA Cup Round Four) We've been up Blidworth Bottoms and had a lovely walk this morning around Sherwood Forest ahead of grabbing a great bacon and tomato cob and cuppa tea at the coffee truck in the car park. A salty sloppy burnt bacon bap that touched the spot enough to consider coming back next weekend and doing the same again. I'm back home for an hour or so before heading out. It's WSL big girls Leicester who enter the fourth round of the FA Cup. Third tier part timers Derby County are hosts in an East Midlands Derby at Mickleover's Don Amott Arena. It's 1:30pm and I aim to get to the ground for 2pm although a crash outside the Showcase in Nottingham has me stuck in traffic and late. Finally I'm on the A52 Derby Road and heading across the Brian Clough Way before navigating the ring road system of DE1 and turning on to Friar Gate and continuing past Markeaton Park towards Mackworth on the Ashbourne Road. The Venue It's been ten years since I've been here last and as I pull in I've noticed a few new houses built nearby, the car parking is fortunately free but it's packed as we are all asked to pull our motors on the cricket field which hasn't been cut for months. Relief that the surface is hard as a week or two earlier I might have been requesting a tractor to pull me out of what potentially feels like it could quickly become a mud bath. I'm out of the car and reaching for my man bag as I check the clock and it's ten past two. Heading straight for the turnstile I'm scanned through and walk into the venue behind the goal, netting up as the players are on the pitch warming their muscles, the place already full of fans as I walk around the perimeter, the surface used to be awful here but these days it's 3G and hosts a number of games on a daily basis which no doubt contributes to a few neat touches that have appeared around the place since my last visit. Only one stand of choice, to the left a modern seated stand just five or six rows in height is one where the press and directors seats are also situated. Opposite is open end with dugouts and a couple of portacabins, two sides without cover as one end to my right, behind the goal has the clubhouse and changing room. I once remember the ground serving it's own Mickleover Sports ale in that place... I wonder if the brewery is still going strong? The Game I've sat down ahead of the match next to a chap who does OPTA for Derby County and it's his first women's game, I tell him he's in for a treat. Leicester are the dominant force early doors, the gulf of class down the levels is huge and you can see how the professionals are so much better, not just in quality but physically, and athletically, as the scout besides me points out. The Foxes are good, probing, passing, they have all of the ball, so much so their goalkeeper Kop is regularly on the half way line. She's like Rene Higuita without the tash. She doubles up as a centre half simply for someone Sophie Howard can pass to and at one stage her left back Cayman is retrieving the ball even deeper than she is. The possession stats are frightening but Derby are holding firm, every tackle and block is done so with aggression and Draper in the 'Ewes' goal is stopping everything that comes her way, but a corner on 27 is headed against a post by Petermann who's quickest to react to the rebound. She prods home from close range a sloppy goal for Derby to concede after all their good defensive work. The Score That goal is enough to separate the two teams at half time as the Opta guys goes "there's fifty minutes I won't get back" it's not a thrilling match, very one sided but credit Derby for keeping the score down in their low block. I'm nervous for them however as Leicester's bench is even stronger than their starting eleven. The second half sees more 'peppering' as an early shot hits the top of the crossbar, Cayman then finds space as a cross is nestled home by the Belgian to double the away sides advantage. Leicester have the luxury of making a couple of subs and one of those, Canadian forward Deanne Rose strikes from inside the area into the roof of the net. Yuki Momiki, another off the bench then whips in a free kick which is deflected into her own net by Steggles, 0-4 Leicester and fifteen still to play. Derby however hold out to keep the score down to four and are relieved by the time the whistle goes, it's been one way traffic but a good learning curve for the home side who in the end will take some positives from the way they competed against opposition who in fairness, are very very good and are a collection of top players from around the world. The Stars One of those globetrotters, Japanese debutant Saori Takarada had a good game in midfield as she kept things short but progressive in a number eight role. Besides her the ever industrious Sam Tierney worked hard. Petermann up front was a real handful, a tall cultured German number nine whilst the Foxes back four had a lot of the ball and a lot of time to enjoy it, Sophie Howard smoking a cigar whilst strutting balls around with a rolls Royce performance. For Derby, goalkeeper Anna Draper was not just the Ewes, but the games best player. Defensively they got bodies behind the ball and were very gutsy, but on the ball they lacked any real identity and we're well and truly outplayed. If they had more than 10% possession I'll be surprised. The Verdict A good cup run could give Leicester a bit of deserved limelight, they are very much in the middle pack of the WSL behind the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal, City, United, and although are a way off the biggest and best four clubs in the country. Along with Aston Villa, Spurs, Liverpool etc however they can certainly compete, they are much improved on last season and the longer they are in the top flight the better they will get. I've personally seen a lot of improvement in them myself. Derby are doing ok in the third tier and games like this will put them in a better place the next time they play such professional and organised opposition. No shame in losing with dignity in tact and a good cup run may come to a close, but over 900 in attendance, they are doing their bit to grow the game locally and these funds earned will certainly help push them towards better things going forward. The Teams Derby County: Anna Draper, Amy Sims, Charlotte Steggles (Isabel Sheridan 83), Sarah Jackson, Emelia Wilson, Emily Joyce, Hannah Ward, Eleanor Ashton, Camile Jenkins, Helena Meadows, Rebecca May (Maria Timms 83). Leicester City: Lize Kop, Sam Tierney, Sophie Howard, Jutta Rantala, Lena Pettermann, Janice Cayman (Aileen Whelan 57), Josie Green (Courtney Nevin 62), Saori Takarada, Julie Thibaud (Deanne Rose 62), Missy Goodwin, Shannon O'Brien (Yuki Momiki 46). 3:00pm Kick Off. Sunday 14th January 2024, Don Amott Arena, Mickleover (att 900 est).

Boston United 1-1 Curzon Ashton (National League North) Formed in 1963 the Nash, from Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester, are in their ninth year in the National League North. That's nothing on Boston United of Lincolnshire's 14 years in the same division but both clubs are currently in the playoff picture and looking to finally go one better with Curzon seventh going into the game and the Pilgrims tenth, knowing victory can leapfrog them over their visitors for the day. The dog has been dropped off at the mother in law's and I'm out on the road nice and early, it's so sunny down the A52 I'm reaching for my sunglasses in the glovebox moving the windscreen visor down as I head towards Grantham and further East, green fields, blue skies, a beautiful winters day of eight degrees and thankfully not a lot on the road. I've arrived at 1:45pm and walk across the Pilgrims Way past a Costa where I smell roasted coffee beans on the go, I'm heading straight for the double glass ticket office doors and sign for my pass before marching straight towards the turnstile and under stand kiosk for a tea, twix and sausage roll. The Venue I've hardly looked up towards the sunny skies, tunnel vision towards my end destination, I've been here before and it all looks the same. I love coming here but the novelties gone a bit. That feeling you get when you arrive at a new ground and just have to sniff around and see what's what... Not today. I'm grabbing some grub and heading straight to my seat. I'm sat directly in front of the BBC Radio Lincs commentator and am joined by a couple of scouts who regularly do games here, the stands filling nicely, three sides of people, one open end of wasteland, the sun lights up the surface over the far side but here I'm in the shade, sunglasses back in my laptop bag, the music playing through the PA is that of a regular playlist as I do a head count of Curzon supporters ahead of kick off and I'm impressed that 34 have made the three hour plus journey from West to East. The Game To a rapture of applause Boston walk out in regular amber and black but my eyes are drawn to the away sides bright pink shirts. Very fetching as they attack to my left but it's the home team who are doing most of the early enforcing, it's stop start and bitty but a good match with two sides both wanting to win, the Referee having to keep on top of things however is quick to calm down the tension as Jimmy Spencer goes in on Jacob Hazel who's not happy. Boston defender Michael Bostwick has his eye on the Curzon number nine, it's a battle I'll be watching closely throughout. Spencer is a lovely player, now in his early 30's he's one I remember as a youngster at Notts County linking up with the likes of Callum McGregor and Jack Grealish during the 'great escape' season of League One saviour. He's had plenty of league matches, not quite at McGregor or Grealish's level and is now a lethargic number nine with a bit of non league attitude. Centre half Bostwick is making sure he leaves something in on him as he comes often racing forward for the loose ball. Spencer aside, Curzon lack quality in the final third and it's Boston who do most of the pressing, following a good spell for the away side the Pilgrims are back on top and a right wing cross from Sam Smart is headed downwards and in by Jimmy Knowles. The Score That goal gives Boston a deserved lead at half time and they continue to press forward in the second half. Hazel who had a couple of sniffs in the opening 45 is running through again but can't get clear whilst Rowe forces a good save by Knowles. It seems that there's only one team looking like winning the game as Boston play most of the match in their opponents half but a rare attack from the visitors produces almost a carbon copy of the home sides goal, a right wing cross by Richards from a free kick is headed home downwards by Matthews and suddenly it's all square. That goal lifts the away side who alas start doing things that bit quicker until goalkeeper Knowles decides a point is a good result on the road. He slows things down when in possession late on and in the end both teams settle for not losing, rather than trying to win. The two goals aside it's actually a game of little incident, the biggest moment perhaps when the lineswoman switched sides in the second half due to getting abuse off some fans, that led to the Referee heading off down the tunnel for a couple of minutes probably for a piss and to read the rulebook, and the PA man stating to all "Boston United will not tolerate any forms of discrimination". A nice touch as the assistant ref who moved sides then got a round of applause by a warmer, friendlier set of fans in the seated section. After all... Football is 'her game too. The Stars Sam Smart is direct and nippy down the right and it is he who causes most problems for the visitors until he's substituted a minute before the away team equalise. Keziah Martin has a good game on the left of a midfield three whilst Jai Rowe at right back has his best game that I've seen him play, often marauding down the flank with a lot of positivity in his play. Curzon Ashton are workmanlike and solid whilst not having any stand out stars to get excited about. You can see Jimmy Spencer is a top footballer but not particularly great on the day. Jordan Richards from right back perhaps their best player of the match. He wore 19 as did his opposite namesake who played in the Pilgrims midfield to slightly less effect. The Verdict Two teams eyeing up the playoffs and two that will be contesting with each other for many more weeks yet. Boston for large parts the better side but as I've seen before their flakiness leads to conceding late goals and they tend to slip up too often in matches they should have won. How Ian Culverhouse's side might rue these points dropped by the end of the season? Curzon will be happier than the two in taking a road point, they have a chance themselves to be there or thereabouts come May, a lot I suppose will be down to their home form and keeping players fit going into the final quarter of the campaign. Don't write either off but there's a lot of football still to be played. The Teams Boston United: Aaron Chapman, Jai Rowe, Michael Bostwick, Tom Leak, Brad Nicholson, Keziah Martin, Jordan Richards, Deji Sotana, Sam Smart (Kelsey Mooney 82), Jacob Hazel, Jimmy Knowles. Curzon Ashton: Cameron Mason, Marcus Poscha, Devon Matthews, Alex Kenyon (Hayden Campbell 63), Jimmy Spencer, Will Hayhurst (Jamie Allen 79), George Waring, Stefan Mols (Miles Storey 79), Jordan Richards, Adam Barton, Rhys Hughes. 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 13th January 2024, Jakemans Stadium, Boston (att 1,600).

Boston United 3-1 Alfreton Town (National League North) I’m full of festive cheer. The weather is bright, it’s remarkably mild and there’s just two days to go until Christmas. What better way to spend the eve of Christmas eve at a game of non-league football in England. Boston and Alfreton are both in the mix for the promotion push with playoff ambition to get back in the National League which the Pilgrims last played in way back in 2002 and the Reds last appeared in a little more recently from 2011 until 2015. I’ve left it late and need some petrol so race off out before 1pm as I listen in to West Ham v Manchester United on the car radio, stopping off in Bingham for some unleaded E10 and continuing down the A52 towards Boston which I reach for 2pm, it’s already busy and my usual parking place on Field Drive is taken so I find a spot further down the road on Wallace Way which at least offers a faster exit strategy. The Venue The small crowds of people cross over the pelican crossing as cars stop to let us pass on the A16, I’m trotting past Costa and into the car park of the Jakemans Stadium, straight for the main doors of the ticket office and club shop where I join a small queue. People are in line for matchday tickets as I wait at the same window to pick up a press pass, signing in before heading out and through the turnstile, up the steps to my seat where a scout I know from Grimsby is already sitting. I’m joined by a chap from Bourne who’s a regular at Boston matches as we are handed out minced pies along with our team sheets by the club. The game is kids for a quid today so a nice atmosphere built, all three sides steadily filling, the right empty space behind one goal is still subject to completion, once done this will be a wonderful arena for football, modern and cool looking, a pitch flat and wide inviting for players both of Boston and their visitors for the day. The Game Those visitors, today are Alfreton and they fall behind early doors when Jimmy Knowles is allowed to tap home after rapid wing play by Sam Smart. A penalty however harshly awarded after a shot goes wide when the follow through of Zak Mills takes down an attacker leads to Jordan Thewlis levelling up, much to the disgruntlement of the home crowd. It’s a lady referee today and she’s getting pelters for her performance, I hope Joey Barton isn’t watching after his controversial recent tweets as she struggles to get to grips on the game and awards some odd decisions. The Score Those decisions however are soon forgotten when Knowles grabs a second on seventy. He bundles over as Hazel plays him in before Keziah Martin makes it three and Alfreton can coast the final few minutes in the know, that even they can’t mess things up from here. It’s an impressive performance from the home side who are deserved winners, it wasn’t a classic first half not helped by the whistle happy Ref but the better team in the second shone through, their commitment and aggressiveness on the day more than the away side as Alfreton were disappointing and unconvincing with their route one ploy which was easily dealt with. The Stars Michael Bostwick led from the back, as he headed and kicked everything that came his way. Sam Smart shown speed down the right whilst Jacob Hazel put in a good unselfish service for his team up top. Jimmy Knowles taking the plaudits with two well taken close range goals. For Alfreton, Lewis Salmon for me is their main threat and an exciting young player to watch. Kennedy Digie whilst perhaps living life on the edge and close to being sent off, is full bodied, fully committed, a proper centre half who won every header and chopped everyone down who came his way. The Verdict A win to spur on a Boston pursuit of playoff places which they are good enough to reach, they need a consistent run to build momentum going into the business end of the season. Alfreton will most certainly be pushing too. Two very good sides for the level, very different in their approach, but teams you fell well enough equipped to make a challenge, and not only that, but also do very well at the level above. The Teams Boston United: Aaron Chapman, Zak Mills, Michael Bostwick, Tom Leak, Brad Nicholson, Sam Smart (Keaton Ward 81), Jordan Richards, Keziah Martin, Deji Sotona (Michael Gyasi 90), Jacob Hazel, Jimmy Knowles. Alfreton Town: George Willis, Josh Clackstone, Kennedy Digie, Shaun Brisley (Dwayne Wiley 76), Nathan Newall, George Cantrill, Adam Lund, Lewis Salmon, Harry Perritt (Liam Waldock 75), Jordan Thewlis, Jake Day (Ryan Taylor 68). 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 23rd December 2023, Jakemans Stadium, Boston (att 1,688).

Peterborough Sports 4-2 Bishop’s Stortford (National League North) What a way to end the year. Match number 82 of 2023 and it took me back, almost, to where it all started when in the second game of the last twelve months, way back in January, I travelled to Peterborough Sports ‘Bee Arena’ to watch the home side win against Southport. This time it’s Bishop’s Stortford who are opponents for the day. A side I’ve never seen but one with a cricketing connection, Ronnie Irani is president whilst past players include Dwight Gayle, Leo Fortune-West, Jamie Cureton and my personal favourite ever Ceefax capture, Roy Essandoh, who once famously helped Wycombe to a cup win at Leicester after responding to an advert on teletext. Past successes for Bishop’s include the FA Amateur Cup in 1974 and the FA Trophy in 1981 but this season they are at the foot of the National League North, probably because the location of the clubs Woodside Park ground is actually in the south and getting local players to travel as high as even Watford Gap and beyond is a struggle for them? The Hertfordshire town is on the border of Essex and this is their ‘local derby’ in the division at just 140 miles round commute. God help them when they travel to the likes of Blyth and South Shields. The Venue Whilst Bishop’s won promotion from the Isthmian League last season, Peterborough are in their second season at this level but have gone from blue to orange in the past year. I’ve seen a few notable changes at the ground too which has been rebranded ‘Pims Park’ as they have invested in new structure to keep the ‘National League rule regulators’ happy. The place has significantly improved over the last twelve months with a new terraced stand behind one end and to the left of that a similarly impressive structure covered with standing room only. Today they have Turbine the Tiger debuting as mascot and rumour is there’s a player inside… Dan Jarvis is out injured and his charge for the day is to walk around the perimeter of the pitch in fancy dress. Perhaps a good idea by the club to ensure injuries and suspensions are reduced to minimal or suffer the consequences of perhaps playing Tiger as punishment? The Game It’s a slow start but the home side have more of the ball without really penetrating the visiting team’s backline. Hayden Cann is looking for that ball over the top to set the pacey Dion Sembie-Ferris away down the left but it often goes too long, too straight, too predictable, and the visitors in white, start to feel confident, Alemanji trying his luck from forty yards, wind dipping a looping swerving effort onto the top of the crossbar as Peter Crook stands still. What a goal that would have been. Buoyed by this, the visiting fans are singing ‘allez les blues’ and suddenly Alemanji strikes an opener from low, outside the box, finishing a lovely move, the better team ahead going into half time. I’ve been really impressed with Emmanuel Oke at centre half who’s massive, he’s tried badly to instantly chop Sembie-Ferris on half way though and completely missed him, the wingers speedy attacking play eventually leading to a free kick on the edge of the box. The tubby looking right back Matt Tootle places the ball down, curls it into the top corner and celebrates by doing the worm. Bishop’s deservedly restore their lead early in the second half when a shot through a crowd creeps in at the far post from Foxley, minutes later however Haines is sent off for chopping down a Sports attack on the edge of the area, the home team in the ascendancy have more possession, more attempts, more confidence, and eventually it proves too much for the ten men as Cann heads home a leveller. The Score Despite being a man light it seems to be going to plan though, Bishop’s holding on for an important point as they fend off what looks to be another predictable attack by Sports, but as the 90 minute mark touches another ball into the box is this time headed home, Mark Jones with a late winner from a corner, but is it a late winner? No quicker have the home team players and fans finished their celebrations do Bishop’s attack and a penalty is awarded for a clumsy challenge inside the box. This time Alemanji fails under pressure as his slow stumbling run up cannot psyche out the goalkeeper, Crook diving to his right to keep out the low driven effort. That guilt edge miss has Stortford at sixes and sevens and in the six plus minutes of stoppage time Sports break again with a three on two and wrap things up, Jordan Nicholson off the bench to smash home with time and space as the away team trudge back long in the distance. The Stars Despite his spot kick miss, Alemanji looked a fine centre forward for Bishop's and they had one or two more who can certainly hold their own at the level despite their position at the foot of the table. I did like their huge young centre half Emmanuel Oke who is raw but thick set, powerful, pacey and is better on the ball, unusually for a defender, than he is off it. Right sided wing-back David Olufemi was a competent competitor with league experience and another huge man in presence was Serigne Osman Petter Sow, formerly of Heart of Midlothian the Swede has played in Scotland, China, Moldova, Thailand, UAE and Milton Keynes as well as his homeland, although I felt more impressed with his size and stature than his performance. For Peterborough, Dion Sembie-Ferris didn't have his best day and missed a couple of chances when sent racing through but he's their main man and since being back from a time away in Scunthorpe he's enjoyed being home and you can tell it's lifted him to more responsibility, a better player from his time at Glanford Park? I think he's better being a big fish in a small pond in Peterborough than he is competing with the likes of Callum Roberts and co as another winger in a lake of talented wide men on the banks of the Humber. Other impressing performances from Turbines included the no-nonsense Hayden Camm and Dan Lawlor at the back whilst Josh McCammon did what Josh McCammon usually does and stroked it around the park nicely, at his own relaxed pace. The Verdict That win pushes Peterborough away from the danger zone and as I said to the local radio commentator before the match, “I think they’ll be ok”. Despite the win however I don’t think they were at their best. Bishop’s better for long periods until they were reduced to ten, even after they should have dealt with Sports aerial threat, and they should have levelled with a late pen. Destiny for Stortford is certainly relegation but no shame in that if they can keep performances competitive, they'll be back next season as they have a great following, a noisy support of fans and some very good young players who might just kick on to one day better things. The Teams Peterborough Sports: Peter Crook, Matt Tootle (Kane Felix 69), Hayden Cann, Dan Lawlor, Hugh Alban Jones (Oisin Gallagher 85), Josh McCammon, Ashton Fox, Mark Jones, Michael Gash, Ben Fowkes (Jordan Nicholson 78), Dion Sembie-Ferris. Bishop's Stortford: Jack Giddens, Mark Haines, Riccardo Ditrolio, Amadou Kassarate, Kane Crichlow (Jack Thomas 88), Mbunya Alemanji, Darren Foxley, David Olufemi, Emmanuel Oke, Serigne Sow (Gio McGregor 56), Ryan Charles. 3:00pm Kick Off. Saturday 30th December 2023, Lincoln Road, Peterborough (att 459).

Stamford 4-0 Mickleover (Southern League Central Division) Steve Cooper has been sacked by Nottingham Forest. It’s hard to put into words what the Welshman has done for the people of my beloved home city, a man who ‘connected’ in a way that no human has done since the late great magician that was Brian Clough. He personally gave me one of my greatest days as a Forest fan when the Reds beat Huddersfield to lift the Championship playoff trophy at Wembley. Beating Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and drawing with the wonderful treble winning Manchester City since, all great feats along the memorable journey, the greatest of all however is how he reconnected the passion that the Forest fans have with their club. Sometimes football is more about moments than results, and Steve Cooper certainly gave Forest fans some of their best moments in many long years. Speaking of years, It was ten years ago I last visited Stamford for a football game. Back then at the Vic Couzens Stadium we drew 0-0 in the FA Cup whilst at Grantham Town, should have won the replay at the Meres, but let a late two goal lead slip to go out, it still hurts today, my memories of the place though, an idyllic football venue, enclosed pitch sloped down that backed on to gardens with an old metal roofed stand propped up by posts, church in background on an Autumnal clear day it was one those that every groundhopper would enjoy attending, but the club since moved on to pastures new, a sport complex on the outskirts of town, and tonight it’s my first visit, although I’ve been to the beautiful looking market town on many occasions to frequent the bars, restaurants and shops with the wife. Stamford AFC, nicknamed the Daniels, were formed in 1896. They’ve been flipping between North, South and Midland leagues since the turn of the century due to their geographical location, the town in Lincolnshire is closer to Peterborough than anywhere else, it’s their first season in the Southern League after sixteen years in the NPL. Mickleover likewise are recent Northern Premier League stalwarts, they are now in their second season and challenging for the title as one of two teams to beat. The Derby based outfit formed in 1948 were playing in the Central Midlands League as recently as 1999 but have since stabilised at step three of the non-league pyramid over the last nine years. It seems they aim to go one further but have lost some ground of late as Needham Market have leap frogged them at the top. I’m off in the dark down the A52 and A1 down country roads and through the village of Ryhall before reaching the lit up arena on the right hand side, parking in a large car park of this modern purpose built facility. The Venue Borderville Sports Centre, surrounded by fields on the edge of town, has a huge brick building with fitness centre and five-a-side pitches behind whilst a modern new football ground on the left has a couple of turnstiles to enter of choice. I choose the bottom corner rather than the centre and walk in to scan my MasterCard. A quick wee in a wooden shack used for toilets before walking around this spacious place, a terraced stand behind one goal with a roof, a seated stand on one side with a roof, other than that, nothing but concrete floors and open air, lined by dim lit floodlights the corner between two sides has the fitness centre building which is also used for Stamford’s clubhouse and players changing rooms. It's very modern and opened less than ten years ago, in 2014. The Game I’ve taken my seat at the top row of the stand on half way as a gush of wind is providing my face with a cold chill, the players come out as I’m greeted by a few Stamford staff with smiles, the home side in all red whilst Mickleover in sky blue. It’s not one for the feint hearted tonight, the breeze pushing across the pitch with some drizzle in the air, it can’t be more than 4 or 5 degrees and the away side are struggling against a team that seem to look more ‘up for it’. It takes only 18 minutes for a free kick by left back Bartle who’s shuffled over the right side to whip in at pace where Chitzia heads home at the back post. Duffy is next as he heads in a long throw in by Bartle and the full back completes a hat-trick of assists as his corner leads to Ashton smashing home from close range. It’s been a dominant half hour from the home side who have grown in confidence, it seems every time they stick the ball in the box, Mickleover are in trouble. The Score At half time I’m expecting a very different Mickleover in the second half and although they bring on Andy Dales and Marcus Barnes they have a little bit more purpose but still no end panache, everything is direct and route one as the rain now fizzles in, they play long balls which are caught by the wind and end up rolling out for a goal kick where Michael Duggan is in no rush. By now, Stamford are starting to manage the game, a few subs and physio appearances has it a little bit stop start to their liking and favour, Mickleover have huffed, not entirely puffed, a bull is played into the box and Stamford midfielder Morgan stabs home, he’s been sniffing all night, he finally gets his goal to cap things off. “Can we play you every week” and “We want five” are sung by the noisy Stamford faithful behind the goal. They’ve enjoyed themselves tonight and get louder throughout the game, their team continues to push for more whilst at the other end Mickleover look too little, too late, for a consolation that never comes. The Stars It’s certainly Stamford’s night and the team who wanted it more, who were prepared to fight, were the ones who had the fire in their belly from the start and it shown as they got better with every goal, Tendai Chitzia was a driving force in midfield, Jack Duffy a potent poacher and constant nuisance up top, Morgan and Shaw busy in their play from midfield, whilst defensively they stood firm, Ashton Offler impressed, whilst the balls of Connor Bartle were the difference in getting those early all-important goals. For Mickleover, whilst I felt they weren’t at the races, I expected more from them, but could see signs why they are so high in the table. Jake Bennett at right back, one player who I thought on the night was very good. In Finn Delap and Ethan Mann they have a good and gutsy all be it relatively inexperienced centre half pairing that is perhaps prone to nights like these. They'll do more good than bad and have long careers in the game. Andy Dales was used off the bench but immediately improved the side whilst Oliver Greaves may not have had his best night, he’s a player who I do like the look of. The Verdict A winters blip? Mickleover are now without a win in three and are second, a point behind Needham Market who have played a game less, in the table. I suspect them to pick things up but games are thick and fast, they’ll need to do so quickly or could lose some ground over the winters period. Stamford aren’t in a bad position themselves at all. Now fourth in the table just four points below Mickleover, they also have ambition of step six football next season and I would certainly give them a chance. The Teams Stamford: Michael Duggan, Joe Burgess (Michael Armstrong 76), Connor Bartle, Will Glennon, Ashton Offler, James Blunden, Tendai Chitiza (Ollie Brown-Hill 50), Rob Morgan, Jack Duffy (Tom Siddons 78), Lee Shaw, Harry Vince. Mickleover: Oliver Bosworth, Jake Bennett, Rhys Dolan (Matty Bowman 82), Dan Bradley, Finn Delap, Ethan Mann, Will Trueman, Ben Sault, Leon Clarke (Marcus Barnes 46), Stuart Beavon (Andy Dales 46), Oliver Greaves. 7:45pm Kick Off. Tuesday 19th December 2023, Borderville, Stamford (att 327).

Leicester City 1-1 West Ham United (Women’s Super League) I’m not really feeling it today. I’m all ready to down tools for Xmas, it’s cold outside and there’s much better to do than sit through Leicester City and West Ham in the WSL. So I better keep it brief. In fairness it’ll be my first viewing of the lady Hammers, whilst I know a bit about Leicester, I know nothing about West Ham, so after plucking up the will power to get up, get out, and get into my car… I’m off down the A46 where I stop off for some fuel and continue my journey into Leicester city centre before pulling up on Brazil Street which used to lead you in fact down towards the old Filbert Street Stadium which is now student apartments. It has rows of terraced houses and factories around here which have signs up for no parking on event days but despite a foot injury I’m chancing it ‘on street’ as the official LCFC parking app keeps adding £1.50 booking fee for each time I purchase. Not today Mr Srivaddhanaprabha, my money is being kept in my pocket. The Venue I’ve hobbled down Burnmoor Street towards the Raw Dykes Road where the stadium appears opposite a Bristol Street Motors Renault Dealership. There’s soft play archery for kids, an inflatable football goal, a snow globe which they can bounce inside and Santa is sitting down with some little girl on his lap. I’ve a quick five minutes so take a look inside the club shop before deciding ‘blue’ isn’t for me. There’s a few nice bits and some Christmas jumpers on display but the only Leicester City fan I know is far from worthy of me spending £35 on them. I’m limping towards the turnstile and head straight for my seat, I’ve chanced walking towards the press area for some peace and quiet but a steward shouts at me for crossing the boundary. The annoying thing about watching women’s football at Leicester is that only two blocks of the 30,000 seater stadium are open to the public. I’ve sat down in the seat I paid for as three teenage lads park behind me and start singing songs, waving flags, and acting like teenage boys, which isn’t a problem, but god they’re annoying… Suddenly in front of me two girls sit down, one has a clapper in her hands and is smacking it against the seat. I’ve had enough, I’m off, walking towards the corner flag which offers a great 360 view of the stadium but not so good for a scout who is attempting to watch play close up and see what’s going off? I’m bloody miles away, but at least in peace. The Game The first half is crap. Probably the worst half of football I’ve watched ever. The highlights when a Leicester City player kicks the ball out for a corner when trying to pass back to the goalkeeper. The second half starts in the same vein, Janina Leitzig who I’ve felt is one of the best shot stoppers in the women’s game, she lets a back pass roll over her foot as she watches it hit the post and fall back to her. It’s comical but agonising to watch. Thankfully the match picks up and Petterman scores to give Leicester the lead and something for their fans to cheer about. The Score That’s how it should stay. Leicester have been long the better team, they ‘try’ to play better football and knock it around well. Willie Kerr has really got them well drilled as they look to play out from the back and get it wide but in fairness the Hammers defence has hardly been strained, I’m impressed with Hawa Cissoko who’s an imposing French centre half, she however gets booked in injury time of which ten minutes have been added to test my patience further, a rash tackle then by Cissoko outside the box gives her the marching orders and West Ham are reduced to ten, but in the dying seconds they break down the left and unmarked at the back post is Hayashi to bundle in. A point snatched from looking down the barrel of defeat. I can hear a pin drop as I don’t think any West Ham fans are even in this stadium? The Stars It was tough to watch, Leicester better on the ball, but lacking creation, West Ham defensively solid, but in attack they spurned some guilt edged opportunities. For the Hammers, despite her red it was Cissoko for me who looked their ‘classiest’ player. Big, strong, quick she defended with ease until a rash minute in added time. For Leicester, Aimie Palmer played well in midfield, a physical presence with a positive demeanor, Lena Petterman led the line well without great service, Jutta Rantala perhaps the best of the rest, but it certainly wasn’t a day where I walked, or hobbled home, impressed. The Verdict Leicester should certainly be two points better off, and they’ll be frustrated with their late slip but they have most definitely improved in the year I’ve watched them, not a good game of football today, but you can see from the way they play, in what they try and do, it’s effective, well drilled and their points tally this season suggests one of a mid-table side, rather than a relegation struggler. West Ham are in that ‘latter’ mix of looking over their shoulder. Only one side go down from the WSL, at the moment it’s either them or Bristol City who have the same points (5) after ten games played. The Teams Leicester City: Janina Leitzig, Josie Green, Sophie Howard (Missy Goodwin 65), Julie Thibaud, Janice Cayman, Aimee Palmer (Remy Siemsen 88), Sam Tierney, Courtney Nevin, Aileen Whelan (Ava Baker 90), Lena Petterman, Jutta Rantala. West Ham United: Megan Walsh, Risa Shimizu, Shannon Cooke, Hawa Cissoko, Anouk Denton (Emma Snerle 75 (Jessica Stapleton 90)), Honoka Hayashi, Abbey-Leigh Stringer (Mel Filis 87), Kirsty Smith, Jessica Ziu (Emma Harris 61), Vivianne Aseyi, Riko Ueki (Princess Ademiluyi 87). Sunday 17th December 2023, Leicester City Stadium, Leicester (att 1,521).

Celtic 2-1 Feyenoord (UEFA Champions League Group Stages) I’m hopping into the car at Hampden and driving the short commute to Celtic Park as I cut through Rutherglen and over the Dalmarnock Road and onto Springfield Road down the back of the Emirates Arena. I’ve pulled up on Macbeth Street just off the London Road which is a ten minute walk to the stadium, I’m early, so phone the wife who’s on her dog walk, before starting my commute to the main event of the evening. Celtic and Feyenoord have some history. A 1970 European Cup Final went the way of the Dutch side which is their only ‘Champions League’ success to date. Celtic who won the trophy in 1967 were gunning for their second piece of continental silverware. Swedish striker Ove Kindvall scoring an extra time winner to give the Rotterdam giants a piece of their own unique history. Wim Jansen was in the Dutch side that day, he would eventually go on to manage Celtic whilst the likes of Henrik Larsson and Pierre van Hooijdonk would also famously play for both clubs. The Venue I’m walking towards the Celtic Way passing the Real McCoy Pub and the 1888 bar. Men selling green and white scarves, women selling raffle tickets for £15k prize pots, there’s a Christmas tree lit up strangely in blue as I catch the stadium in the background in all its mighty. I’m in the club shop having a browse before walking around hopelessly looking for the UEFA Office which is inside some portacabin near a load of TV trucks. Eventually I have my pass and am taken through a side gate, up via the turnstiles and into a media area that has one or two famous football faces as John Hartson walks in with what looks like a cosy Siberian style wrap around hat on his head. After a quick cup of tea I’m off to find my seat, walking out of the South Stand to see everything glistening in green. The huge wrap around arena looking fabulous and empty ahead of the two teams last night of Champions League action this year. The Game The Feyenoord fans have been in the stadium for some time, singing away, there’s a slight cannabis aroma coming from somewhere as the stands slowly fill up around them in the far corner, the players out doing their warmups, back in, then out again after a light show pumps up the atmosphere ahead of you’ll never walk alone. By now the famous Champions League music is greeted by a great roar from 60,000 plus. Magnificent spine-tingling sounds ahead of the action to start. It’s competitive too, considering neither team have anything to play for. Celtic already out, Feyenoord confined to third and the Europa League in a group that also contains Atletico Madrid and Lazio who have qualified for the round of sixteen. Calvin Stengs and Quinten Timber are ball carrying from midfield and the away side think they’ve taken the lead when Paixao rounds the keeper but he’s given offside. Celtic though are game, like their younger predecessors earlier in the day, they play quickly, out from the back, are a threat down the wing and their full backs push forward, they have a corner and Welsh is wrestled down inside the box which allows crowd favourite Luis Palma to step up and score from the spot. The Score A deserved lead for the Bhoys at the break as Arni Slot, like Robin van Persie did in the game earlier in the day with the U19’s, substitutes three of his players early in the second half. He actually takes off their three best players which leads me to think he has one eye on the weekend but Feyenoord begin to impose themselves and one of those subs Yankubu Mintah gets on the end of a pass to smash home from close range. Mintah on loan from Newcastle United has been lively since coming on as Celtic fans are quiet, the Feyenoord faithful singing ‘You’re not singing any more’ they are having a party in the corner, but that party is put to pay as the board goes up for injury time, Matt O’Reilly gets half a yard inside the box and he chips to the back post where Gustaf Lagerbielke scores his first Hoops goal. Fans are running onto the pitch as Born Slippy is played singing ‘lager lager lager’ as a new cult hero is born. The Stars Some top performances in green and white as full backs Johnston and Taylor both got forward well. Young centre back Stephen Welsh besides Liam Scales, both solid whilst Callum McGregor, captain in midfield, who earlier crashed the bar with a belter, was brilliant as he always is. Feyenoord like their youth stars earlier in the day seemed under par to me, but unlike their youth stars couldn’t turn around a match which they deserved to lose. Other then their goalkeeper, Justin Biljow who impressed with his ball playing and shot stopping, Timber and Stengs posed outfield highlights before Mintah came on whilst skipper Lutsharel Geertruida, still only 23, looks like he could be set for a big move, a right back who can probably do a bit in any position on the pitch, he himself crashed a post and was pretty solid throughout. The Verdict Celtic can now at least concentrate on domestic football and seeing off the challenge of their bitter rival Rangers when it comes to chasing down the SPL title. Feyenoord in their own battle with PSV are very much second best in the Eredivise. There’s no question these two sides are far away of those great days of 1970… But as football clubs, with their football supporters and rich history, they’ll always be superpowers to me. The Teams Celtic: Joe Hart, Alistair Johnston, Stephen Welsh (Gustaf Lagerbielke 75), Liam Scales, Greg Taylor, Matt O'Reilly, Tomoki Iwota (Paulo Bernardo 18), Callum McGregor, Mikey Johnston (James Forrest 68), Kyogo Furuhashi (Oh Hyeon-Gu 68), Luis Palma (Mitchell Frame 75). Feyenoord: Justin Bijlo, Lutsharel Geertrudia, Thomas Beelan (Jaivaro Dilrosun 79), David Hancko, Quilindischy Hartman, Ramiz Zerrouki, Calvin Stengs (Mats Weiffer 54), Quinten Timber (Thomas Van Den Belt 54), Igor Paixao (Yankubu Minteh 54), Santiago Gimenez, Luka Ivanusec (Ayase Ueda 67). 8:00pm Kick Off. Wednesday 13th December 2023, Celtic Park, Glasgow (att 56,391).