Ringette: A Big Week Ahead For Team Canada!

Those of you may recall a few months ago we had an introduction post to the sport of Ringette and that we announced that we'd be following the Canadian Women's team in the forthcoming Ringette World Championships in November.

Well we're only day's away from the tournament's start in Tampere, in Finland so we thought via our friends at Ringette Canada that it's about time we gave you the low-down on the team and introduced you to the team, as they go in quest for glory.

Ringette is a Canadian invention that has become one of the fastest team sports on ice. Sam Jacks, a recreation director and sports enthusiast from North Bay, Ontario, invented the sport in 1963 when he saw the need for a winter team sport for girls.

Internationally, ringette is played in a number of countries around the world, including Finland, Sweden, the United States, France, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. Since 1990, a world ringette championship has been held on a regular basis, with Canada and Finland being the predominant challengers. Canadian ringette athletes have continuously served as ambassadors of the sport, introducing ringette in countries as far away as Japan, Australia, Germany and New Zealand.

Anyway the 22 girl's in the Canada squad for the Championships which starts in a few days time, is as follows. The announcement was made in May and followed a tough training camp which saw the best girls selected.

Team Canada 2010 Roster:

00 – Vanessa Cowlen – Defence – Cambridge, Ontario
1 – Keely Brown – Goalkeeper – Edmonton, Alberta (Assistant Captain)
3 – Dallas Robbins – Defence – Calgary, Alberta
4 – Jenn Wakefield – Centre – Langley, British Columbia
6 – Kailee Dundas – Forward – Hussar, Alberta
7 – Lindsay Burns – Defence – Starbuck, Manitoba
8 – Abbey Hoes – Defence – Calgary, Alberta
12 – Victoria Russell – Centre – Calgary, Alberta
14 – Andrea Ferguson – Forward – Winnipeg, Manitoba
16 – Katie Lugg – Defence – Ottawa, Ontario
17 – Jennifer Hartley – Centre – Balzac, Alberta
18 – Jacqueline Gaudet – Forward – Cambridge, Ontario (Captain)
19 – Colleen Hagan – Defence – Manotick, Ontario
21 – Barb Bautista – Forward – Edmonton, Alberta (Assistant Captain)
24 – Jenna McBride – Defence – Ottawa, Ontario
30 – Bobbi Mattson – Goalkeeper – Calgary, Alberta
31 – Meghan Pittaway – Goalkeeper – Cambridge, Ontario
64 – Beth Hurren – Defence – Bowmanville, Ontario
66 – Stéphanie Séguin – Forward – Saint-Laurent, Quebec
81 – Erin Cumpstone – Centre – Saskatoon, Saskatchevan
87 – Ashley Peters – Forward – Cardiff Echoes, Alberta
99 - Julie Blanchette – Forward – Montréal, Quebec

So now that you know the girls, here's a good video of them introducing themselves shortly after they were announced in the World Championship Roster.



We thought we'd focus a tad more on the captain, Jacqueline Gaudet, from her profile alone her experience and know-how for Team Canada will be vital. After all every good team needs a good captain.

Gaudet's Stats:
Position: Forward and Team Captain
Height: 5'9''
DOB: 29/5/1982
Hometown: Cambridge, Ontario
Birthplace: Edmonton, Alberta
Date of Birth: 5/29/1982

A interesting fact about Gaudet, is that she has been named a national all-star every year since 1998. Aside from that she was a gold medallist at the 1999 Canada Winter Games, she’s a seven-time national champion, she picked up a gold medal as part of Team Canada in 2002 and silver medals in 2000 and 2007, and in 2008 won gold at the first ever world club championship with the Cambridge Turbos. Just this past season, Gaudet was named the National Ringette League’s Most Valuable Player, an honour she was also awarded during the 2005-2006 season.

Gaudet started playing ringette at the age of five, following in the footsteps of her older sister Jenn. She credits making her debut on Team Canada in 2000 as her greatest ringette accomplishment. When asked the best piece of advice she has ever received Gaudet responds, “To believe in myself, have confidence in my abilities and to never give up. If you always give 110 percent, only good things can happen.”

Anyway the opening games of the Championships start on Monday. With all games taking place at the Hakametsa Ice Hall in Tampere, the venue is set for a fascinating week of action. Canada have won the championship on four occasions and will be going for their fifth title this week.

Here's some action of the girls being put through some last bits of practice over the last couple of days out in Finland. As you can see it may look easy at first, as you have to be super fit to play the game and the pressure is always on.



If the girls are to do so, it would be a magnificient achievement for their coach Lyndsay Wheelans that would be a fantastic achievement. She was an athlete on the only team to ever win two consecutive World Ringette Championships in 1990 and 1992. She was the head coach for Team Canada’s gold medal win in 1996, silver medal win in 2007 and assistant coach when Team Canada won silver in both 2000 and 2004. Wheelans is no stranger to Finnish Ringette either, as she has had a spell coaching the Finns as well.

When asked what it means to be part of Team Canada, Wheelans explained “Words can’t really describe what it is like to stand behind a team of athletes this committed, this fit and this good who are wearing these beautiful jerseys with the red maple leaf on their chest.”

In European football of course if you win the Champions League 5 times you get to keep the trophy, I wonder if Ringette's World Organisers would be willing to do this? It's just an idea of course.

If the girls are going to do it though, it's not going to be handed to them on a plate as Sweden, USA and the hosts Finland are top notch teams. If Team Canada are going to win the gold they will need to first finish in the top 2 in the group stages once every team has played each other. Then they will have to win the 3 game series between the first or second team in the group to claim the gold.

It's a tough challenge but one that the Girls should be able to do, providing they start well of course and that Wheelans and the rest of the coaching team make the right calls at the right time. Everyone at SportTrades wishes them the best of luck.

Here's the Schedule for the week ahead:

Saturday, October 30
Exhibition Game - Canada vs Finland - Isku Areena (Lahti, Finland)

Sunday, October 31
Practice – Canada - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)

Monday, November 1
Opening Ceremonies
Game - Finland vs USA - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)
Game - Canada vs Sweden - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)

Tuesday, November 2
Game – USA vs Sweden - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)
Game - Canada vs Finland - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)

Wednesday, November 3
Game – Canada vs USA - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)
Game – Finland vs Sweden - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)

Thursday, November 4
Game #1 – Bronze Series - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)
Game #1 – Gold Series - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)

Friday, November 5
Game #2 – Bronze Series - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)
Game #2 – Gold Series - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)

Saturday, November 6
Game #3 – Bronze Series - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)
Game #3 – Gold Series - Hakametsa Ice Hall (Tampere, Finland)
13:00 – Closing Ceremonies and Awards Banquet

For all the latest news on the sport, head over to Ringette Canada's official twitter account @ringettecanada where you're learn more about the sport. Also head over to Ringette Canada's official website, which offers more information and latest news on the sport http://www.ringette.ca

Football League honours war dead

This Article was taking in full from our friends at the Football Supporters Federation. After you read the following article, why not try When the Whistle Blows written by Andrew Riddoch and John Kemp. A book giving more extensive information to the history of the Footballers Battalion during the 1st World War, with records and statistics of all the matches played during that period.

The Football League has unveiled a memorial to the soldiers of the Footballers' Battalions' that fought in the First World War. Almost a century after their advance into 'Devil's Wood' began, The Football League has erected a permanent memorial to the men of the 17th and 23rd Middlesex Regiments - the Footballers' Battalions.

Representatives from the Football League were joined by FSF National Council members Jon Keen and Monica Hartland in paying tribute to the estimated 1000 young soldiers who lost their lives. Surrounded on three sides by German Artillery, they were up against it from the off as the order came to 'dig in' at Delville Wood, on the Somme, on July 27, 1916. By the end of their three-day ordeal, 36 members of the Battalion lay dead with almost 200 wounded.

"This is most rewarding day I've had in the job since I took it eight months ago," admitted Football League Chairman, Greg Clarke who unveiled the 1.75m high stone monument in the French village of Longueval. (Image courtesy of the PA.)

"It is about going back 90 years, about footballers who joined up together and gave their lives for their country. Walking around those graves, seeing people aged 17, 18, 19 who ran into a wood with people running at them screaming, holding bayonets at them, the shells raining down on their heads. They kept going, they never gave up, and that's truly humbling."

Formed in 1914 in response to wide-spread public criticism that football was shirking its war-time responsibilities by playing on at a time of national crisis, the Footballers' Battalion allowed professional and amateur players, referees, administrators and football supporters to enlist and fight together in the trenches.

At its height, the 17th Middlesex boasted 300 professional players amongst a total fighting force of 4,500 combatants. A second battalion, the 23rd Middlesex, was created a year later. By the time of its decommission in February 1918, more than 1000 men of the 17th Middlesex had lost their lives and 2000 had been injured. Their story is superbly documented in the book 'When the Whistle Blows' by Andrew Riddoch and John Kemp.

The Football League's campaign to install a permanent reminder of their sacrifices has been led by former Hereford United, Notts County, Mansfield Town and Lincoln City striker, Phil Stant. Before turning pro, Stant served as a soldier in the Falklands war and was involved in the air attack on the troop carriers Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram at Bluff Cove.

To fund the memorial, Stant, who is now The Football League Trust's Youth Development Regional Manager for the Midlands, worked with clubs across the country to stage bucket collections at Football League fixtures. "The memorial and the members of the Footballers' Battalion can now be properly remembered", he said at the service. "That's down to the supporters of Football League clubs who contributed.

"You bond in the trenches, the one thing you don't want to do is let your mates down in the services. I came across that in the Falklands. When I went to war, for me it was an adventure. It was something I was looking forward to. But when I saw the sights it wasn't an adventure anymore."

The Football League's current crop of players were represented by Wycombe Wanderers winger, Gareth Ainsworth who signalled the beginning of two minutes' silence with a sharp blast on a trench whistle.

"It is really important we never forget," said the 37-year old. "Every footballer would be humbled by this place. There's no Premier League, no League Two out here, all these lads fought side by side."

The Footballers' Battalions included many of the great stars of the day and some of those that would go on to achieve great footballing feats in the post-war era. Vivian Woodward of Chelsea and Spurs was at one time England’s record scorer, Fred Keenor captained Cardiff to FA Cup glory in 1927 and Walter Tull was the first black outfield player to appear in the Football League.

This is the second time in recent months footballers have been honoured for sacrifices made during the First World War. In September the FSF reported on the story of Second Lieutenant Donald Simpson Bell – a footballer and soldier posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for an act of unbelievable courage.

Please when you see the British Legion in the coming weeks buy a poppy.  In memory of all those who have lost their lives defending our liberty, during past and present campaigns.  On 11th November, we will take time, as a nation, to honour them.  We will remember them.

American Football comes to Wembley this Sunday, in NFL Week 8

The San Francisco 49ers and Denver Broncos are in desperate need of a change of fortunes in Sunday's NFL clash at Wembley Stadium. This report provided in full from our friends at BBC Sport.

The 49ers have lost six of their seven games so far this year and their opponents are also in poor form.

Denver lost their fifth game of the season last Sunday, suffering a 59-14 home defeat by the Oakland Raiders.

But 49ers coach Mike Singletary said: "We will make a season of it. I still believe we can go to the play-offs."

Speaking from the 49ers training base in Watford, Singletary added that he believes the trip to London could turn around his team's season.

"For us, it's a nice chance to get away, regroup and rethink. This has come at a great time for us," said Singletary, who is in his second year as head coach.

"It really works to be a bonus for us. It really gives a chance to kind of get away from the hustle and bustle of the NFL, look at maybe some changes we need to make."

This is the fourth NFL regular season game in London, with San Francisco giving up one of their home fixtures to face the Broncos. A crowd of approximately 85,000 is expected at Wembley.

The 49ers have the second-worst record in the NFL, while Denver are bottom of the AFC West and are on a three-game losing streak.

Since starting last season with six consecutive wins, the Broncos have won only four of their last 17 games under coach Josh McDaniels.

Last Sunday's 14-59 loss to the Oakland Raiders led to McDaniels publicly apologising for the performance.

Singletary is also under huge pressure after poor performances have left San Francisco's high pre-season hopes in tatters.

The 49ers will have to do without first-choice quarterback Alex Smith, who had his non-throwing arm in a sling on Monday after being injured in a third-quarter sack in the defeat by Carolina.

Back-up quarterback Troy Smith will take his place and start an NFL fixture for the first time since 2007.

Star tight end Vernon Davisagrees with Singletary and believes that the London contest will allow the 49ers to refocus.

"We have a lot to look forward to. We have Denver here in London - we can't let that loss [to Carolina] get to us. We have to keep our heads up and keen moving forward," Davis said.

"I came here in the summer and met some fans and couldn't believe how knowledgeable they were.

"They couldn't wait for us to get here. I know we are excited to be here and see London."

The Broncos are not due to arrive until Friday afternoon, giving them less time to get accustomed to the city and the surroundings.

"We know this a business trip, but at the same time we have a younger football team, and I wanted our guys to come and get a taste of the culture, and at the same time get a feel for the environment and the weather and the whole nine yards," Singletary said.

Distance runner Mo Farah and sailor Ben Ainslie have been named as honorary captains for Sunday's clash.

Farah, European champion at 5,000m and 10,000m, will wear Denver Broncos colours with triple Olympic champion Ainslie in San Francisco 49ers attire.

The NFL has also revealed that guitarist Jeff Beck will play God Save the Queen and former Destiny's Child member Michelle Williams will sing The Star-Spangled Banner before the game begins, with My Chemical Romance completing the line-up of pre-game entertainment.

All elite rugby union players in England above the age of 16 to be offered cardiac screening

All Aviva Premiership players, Regional Academy players above the age of 16 and England representative team players down to Under 16 level, will be offered testing for cardiac abnormalities in a screening programme announced today at Twyford Avenue, the training base for London Wasps, by Premiership Rugby, the Rugby Football Union and the Rugby Players' Association.


The testing programme will be carried out in partnership with CRY; Cardiac Risk in the Young, a registered charity raising awareness of undetected cardiac abnormalities in young, apparently healthy individuals.

Whilst the risk of sudden cardiac death when exercising between the ages of 14 and 35 is extremely low (estimated to be between 0.5 and 2.1 deaths per 100,000 exercising individuals each year) - a similar risk to lightning related fatalities - the underlying conditions are typically detectable and therefore the majority of these deaths are theoretically preventable.

Abnormalities that remain undetected can lead to death, as in the tragic cases of footballers Mac Vivien Foe, Antonio Puerta and Phil O'Donnell. Sudden cardiac death has also occurred in the 2004 iRB U19 World cup competition and the 2009 Senior Domestic Rugby League competition.

More recent high profile cases have led to the retirement of Ireland prop Simon Best and Sunderland and Ireland footballer Clive Clarke due to cardiac abnormalities.

Although CRY had been providing a limited screening programme to England representative players since 2004, the expansion of the programme to all elite players over the age of 16 very significantly increases the number of players that screening can be offered to. Testing sessions have taken place at each of the 12 Aviva Premiership Rugby clubs over the summer, as well as at England representative squad training sessions with 607 players tested to date. The session at Twyford Avenue was the second of two sessions designed to sweep up any players who have been unable to attend any of the other pre season screening sessions to date.

The screening process involves:

• Personal and family history questionnaire review with an examining cardiologist to detect any cardiovascular condition

• Physical examination by an examining cardiologist

• 12-lead 'resting' ECG to detect rhythm, conduction or repolarisation abnormalities

• If clinically indicated - an on-site Echocardiogram

• Note - all ECG's and Echocardiogarms are reviewed by a CRY cardiologist with expertise in sports cardiology.

CRY co-ordinate all further cardiac investigations, risk assessment, counselling, treatment and follow-up (in conjunction with the player, his GP and club medical staff) as needed via their NHS facilities in Cheshire and SW London while players remain in the elite playing population.

For players over the age of 20, this will be the only occasion on which they will be tested (unless they subsequently develop symptoms suggestive of cardiac disease). However, younger players will be tested every two years until the age of 20 as the heart can continue to grow until that age.

Although the detailed results of the tests are subject to patient-doctor confidentiality, 45 of those players screened had echocardiograms and 12 have been referred for further tests as a result of the screening.

No players have been advised to stop playing to date.

The screening programme is consistent with policy recommended by the International Olympic Committee, the International Rugby Board, the American Heart Association and the European Society of Cardiology.

The programme of cardiac screening is one part of a world leading health and welfare programme operating in English rugby. Other key elements of the programme are:

• The England Rugby Injury and Training Audit is now in its 7th season and is the largest continuous study of injury in professional rugby players in the world. The results have guided changes to training methods and supported studies into specific areas of the game, such as the tackle and the scrum.

• Formal yearly audit of a wide range of medical minimum standards referenced to statutory general medical standards (including medical facility standards, emergency equipment standards, qualifications of medical staff, medical record keeping standards, and compliance with:

• Mandation of Pitch Side Immediate Trauma Care Training (PSITCC) for all Premiership Rugby and England pitch-side medical staff attending to players during games and training.

• Mandation of the CogSport psychometric testing programme ensuring all concussed players have their cognition objectively tested and compared to pre-injury levels before a return to play is considered.

• Last season also saw the introduction of compulsory education programmes that address the potential effects of alcohol and illicit drugs on the health of elite players.

• A policy to ensure that all elite players are immunised against Hepatitis B is in final draft and has the support of all parties.

Corin Palmer, Head of Academies and Development at Premiership Rugby said, "We are continually looking at ways of safeguarding the welfare of our players. Cardiac conditions in fit young men are extremely rare, but by testing all the elite players in England, we can identify any individuals at risk and offer advice, treatment and counselling."

Steve Cox from CRY said, "This important initiative will not only identify those elite rugby players potentially at risk but it will also send a powerful message out to the community about the importance of cardiac screening in all young people. CRY's screening service is available to those between the age of 14 and 35.

"Any person wanting these tests can visit the CRY website to book an appointment, and they will have the same service as these professional rugby players."

Dr. Simon Kemp, Head of Sports Medicine at the Rugby Football Union said, "This is another good example of implementation of key injury risk and illness policy across the elite game that was initially recommended by the Professional Game Board Medical Advisory Group. Premiership Rugby, the RFU and the RPA agreed with the group's recommendation to mitigate the risk of sudden cardiac death across the elite game, supported the policy paper and implemented the policy very successfully this pre-season."

One of the players being tested at the Twyford Avenue session was London Wasps second row Richard Birkett, who added, "We are very well looked after by the medical staff at London Wasps, but cardiac screening is not something as a squad that we have done before."

"It makes absolute sense to get checked out. Abnormalities are rare, but I would far rather have more tests and get a problem addressed, than I would have it go undetected with potentially serious consequences."

Fix 'n' Mix. Big Weekend in Arrecife in the Lanzarote Derby

Fix 'n' Mix feature provides you with details of fixtures being played by SportTrades 'adopted' clubs and trackers. Please check clubs websites to confirm dates, venues and start times.  March to the Arch is a group of 5 trackers covering 5 F.A.Competitions, each with a Merit Table.  All trackers started with a selected tie, at the beginning of each tournament.  We followed the winner of that tie through to the next round and repeat the process until the final.  We promised an update this week for all trackers with all results to date and each Merit Table.  We will have that for you by Wednesday.

March to the Arch continues again this weekend and coming week.  In the F.A.Trophy, Wealdstone travel to Kingstonian in the 2nd Qualifying Round on Sunday.  In the F.A.Youth Cup, Thurrock host Leyton Orient in the 1st Round.

Kult & Punk back on the bar stool this weekend in Zoe's Bar.  They will bring you exclusive plagiarism, for this weekends FC St Pauli clash with Eintracht Frankfurt.

In Arrecife, UD Lanzarote hope to continue their good start to the season.  They play in the Local Derby against Maritima on Friday night, kick off 9pm.  They are away, but at home thanks to ground share.

The Men in Black, hope to continue on from last weeks good win against St Albans.  Harpenden travel to Hampstead in the league.

Jesmond Parish Churches Hockey Club.  The women are resting again, while the men entertain Newcastle University on Saturday.

In basketball Hull Wasps hope to add to their wins, as they travel to Wirral Hornets on Sunday in the Apocrita Derby.

Chelmsford Chieftains continue their Ice Hockey exploits at the new rink, when they entertain Essex rivals Romford Raiders on Saturday.  On Sunday they travel to Wales, to take on those little devils from Cardiff.

SportTrades would also like to highlight the Blue Square South game at Braintree Town.  The Irons will entertain Weston-Super-Mare.

2 posts to look out for very soon from Adam D. A very interesting exclusive from the BBL, about the state of the game and future franchising.  We also have a long awaited update on Ringette.

Please contact us with details of fixtures you would like include in this post.  They can be for clubs or events.  Sport Inspires be Part of it.  Any notifications need to be with us by Wednesday.  Also please send us match reports, we would love to include you in our blog.  info@sporttrades.co.uk

2012: This Weekend is the turn of Newcastle Upon Tyne. 20Fixtures 12 Sports 1 Area:

toWelcome to 2012 for Newcastle upon Tyne and surrounding area, events will take place between 29 October – 31st October. As always’ please double check with the clubs and organisations mentioned for confirmation of Venue, time and dates. We have 2 charity events listed, so if you want to take part, please contact organisations to register. Feel free to go watch and support.

This is a massive weekend for sport in the North East, with the Derby and the Falcons travelling to Northampton Saints and Newcastle Diamonds very close to promotion to the Speedway Elite League.

Football: On Sunday kick off 1.30pm, THE big derby, the one and only. Newcastle United host Sunderland in the Premier League.

On Saturday, Gateshead entertains Cambridge United in the Blue Square Premier League.

Northern League Division 1 team Bedlington Terriers play Norton & Stockton at home. While in the Northern Alliance, Heaton Stannington takes on Ponteland United. A big game for me, as when I lived in Newcastle Heaton Stannington was the closest team to my house and Ponteland United was the club my Father played for (well one of them). In the 1st Division of Northern Alliance, Gosforth Bohemians play Berwick United Ultras at Benson Park.

Women’s Football: Newcastle United Ladies play Manchester City Ladies in the Premier North League. The match will be played on Sunday at the University of Northumbria, Coach Lane Campus. Contact the club for further details.

Rugby: With the regions top teams Newcastle Falcons and Blaydon on the road, it is left to the regions other famous clubs.

Northern entertain Carlisle at McCracken’s Park, Gosforth. Kick off 3pm on Saturday. Gosforth u18’s play Blaydon on Sunday and Ponteland Rugby entertain Gateshead on Saturday kick off 3pm

Women’s Rugby: On Sunday Team Northumbria Ladies play Leo’s Ladies. Contact the club or check local press listings for confirmation of time and venue.

Men’s Hockey: Newcastle University play Durham City in the EHL Divisio2 (North) and our very own Jesmond Parish Churches play Newcastle University 4ths.

Women’s Hockey: In the Northumberland A League, Newcastle Medics will play Newcastle University.

Speedway: Newcastle Diamonds have a massive week ahead. On Sunday they host Edinburgh Monarchs, in the Premier League KO Cup Final at Fossway, Byker, tapes up 6.30. At this meeting u16’s wearing Halloween Fancy Dress will get in free. On Thursday evening, Diamonds travel to Ipswich Witches for the 2nd leg of the promotion play-off. Newcastle trail by 2pts from the 1st leg, the Speedway Elite league is in sight – Good luck lads.

Basketball: In the National League 2 North, Team Northumbria will play the Bradford Dragons on Saturday. Also on Saturday at the Westgate Sports Centre, tip off 12.30, Newcastle Eagles 2nds play Stockport Falcons 2nds in the National League 4 North.

Ice Hockey: At the Whitley Bay Ice Rink, Newcastle Vipers play the Belfast Giants in the Elite League, face off 7pm. Halloween special kids go free. Check the club for confirmation of details and times.

Volleyball: Team Northumbria plays Boathouse Dewsbury on Saturday, start 12.20 in the Men’s National 2 North League.

Marie Curie Cancer Care’s BIG ZIP Newcastle!

If you fancy taking on an adrenaline-fuelled challenge while raising money for a fantastic cause, Marie Curie Cancer Care invites you to get sponsored to zipwire off the iconic Tyne Bridge on 30/31 October 2010. The Big Zip is a completely exhilarating event that gives you the chance to travel at 30mph, 260 metres across the River Tyne, while making a difference to the lives of people with cancer.

Registration fee £10; minimum sponsorship £150. 9am - 5pm HMS Calliope. Please visit our website www.mariecurie.org.uk/inyourarea/north/events/the_big_zip_+newcastle.htm for more details and to download the registration form.

The Tyne Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne Northumberland

Sat 30 October to Sun 31 October.

BRITISH RED CROSS HALLOWEEN WALK

A 2 mile approx 40 minutes sponsored walk around a country park with spooky tales from years gone by and gruesome goodies for children, the night is set to be a real spine tingler! You never know what or who you might bump into just around the corner…or what you might hear from the woods.

£3 PER PERSON TO REGISTER UNDER 3’s FREE EVERYONE TAKING PART MUST COMMITT TO RAISE AT LEAST £10 IN SPONSORSHIP FOR THE CHARITY. THE PERSON RAISING THE MOST WILL RECEIVE A PRIZE. TIME SLOTS ARE 5-30PM 6-15PM 7-00PM 7-45PM AND 8-30PM PLACES ARE LIMITED SO BOOK EARLY.

RISING SUN COUNTRY PARK BENTON ROAD NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, Tyne and Wear NE12 9SS

Fri 29 October

Website www.redcross.co.uk

Men in Black: What sort of Cheese was that? As Saints sent packing back to Cathedral City.

Harpenden beat neighbours St Albans in a fantastic game of rugby at Redbourn Lane.  The report supplied by Harpenden Rugby from their website.

Harpenden 32 St Albans 28

In a week dominated by sports agents in the tabloids it was refreshing to see several club stalwarts produce a performance or note to settle this seesawing local derby.

An early Mark Kentish kick had allowed St Albans an early lead which their combative and forceful forwards play had merited. Prior to the points garnered by the boot of Kentish, Harpenden’s flanker, Ireland received a 10 minute sin-binning for not releasing the ball.

The Men in Black were struggling for any consistency or fluency, opting to run into the teeth of the St Albans ranks at the breakdown. St Albans then produced a fine back’s move which culminated in fullback Kentish crashing over out wide, following good hands from Howard and excellent running lines off the ball. With the score 8-0, and reduced to 14 men, Harpenden were facing the prospect of a difficult 20 minutes prior to half time. However, the home side regained their composure and produced a sublime 10 minutes of fluid irrepressible rugby.

A well-worked line out enabled the herculean figure of Chichester-Miles to make inroads into St Albans’ half, before quick ball, first to Tennant then to Kearns enabled Muskett to sprint away from the cover defense. His kick and chase attempt was thwarted by the St Albans wing, but the provider turned scorer as Kearns leapt on the loose ball, to bring Harpenden their first score.

 From the kick-off Harpenden produced several more moments of brilliance, with Kearns and Humphries slicing through, only to be felled at the last. A speculative chip from St Albans found the gleeful hands of Alan Barton, who, catching the defense flat-footed sped away from three tackles before off-loading to Smith. With the ball being kept alive despite the attentions of the St Albans defense, the ball found its way to Captain Tennant, who powered away from the cover, to score with aplomb under the posts. The conversion was added, and Harpenden lead 12-8.


As the embers of the 1st half began to fade the two teams reignited the fire with some inspiring pyrotechnics. St Albans quickly regathered their lead following two well-taken penalty kicks from Kentish, gently pushing the scores along to 14-12. Harpenden’s response was emphatic with Jonny Barton scrapping and fighting his was through 2 or 3 would-be defenders to score from just inside the 22. The finish was as good as the build-up play which owed a lot to Harpenden’s consistency at lineout time, Cornthwaite this time securing good, clean ball. Several phases of play, combining brute force with beauty, enabled a sliver of light on which Barton capitalized fully.

St Albans, stubborn visitors, began to find their feet for the fight, with Howard, Lane and Morette all gaining meters around the inside channels. Quick ruck ball from St Albans, and the visitors struck with precision, fly-half Howard delaying his pass to the on-rushing centre to crash under the posts for 7 points. The tries then began to flow, as attack favored defense in the closing 20 minutes. Newly svelte substitute Green used his dancing shoes and reach to out-strip two defenders to crash over in the corner. Harpenden regaining the lead yet again.

St Albans soon cancelled with a further score of their own, to again provide the spectators with some quick math to do. With St Albans in the box seat, and leading by 6 points Harpenden regained their composure to produce 5 minutes of excellent defense. The forwards, searching deep into their fitness reserves dismissed wave after wave of blue and gold attack, and under Jali’s kleptomaniac hands produced the turnover that gave Harpenden a chance to get back into the tie. From the turnover, Harpenden sent several runners into St Albans’ narrow channels, before substitute Payne threw a well-directed pass to the on-hand Kearns who turned on the gas to score from 40 meters.

The Men in Black’s tails were up. Harpenden’s forwards again produced some quick ball from which Tennant combined well with Barton, who wide angled pass found Smith. From the resulting ruck Kearns again turned provider to give Musket a chance to settle the tie there and then. The speedster turned on the gas and slid in at the corner, and following a consultation with the linesman awarded the score. Harpenden led 32-28. With St Albans having trying everything in their repertoire the referee blew his whistle on a pulsating fixture.

Team:

Jali, Tennant D, Blake, Macintosh, Cornthwaite, Peck, Ireland, Chichester-Miles, Humphries, Tennant J ©, Barton J, Kearns, Musket, Smith, Barton

Replacements:

Green for Macintosh (50mins), Payne for Barton J (65mins).

Sol y Futbol: Lanzarote draw but are still top of the league.

Ian Lane reports from Arrecife as UD Lanzarote draw.  Lanzarote remain top of the league.  Next weeks derby against Marítima, will be played 9pm on Friday night (29th October).

LANZAROTE 2 ATLÉTICO GRANADILLA 2


U.D. Lanzarote drop their first home points of the Season following a highly controversial penalty for the Tenerife side in the 74th minute but are still three points clear at the top of the Tercera Division (fourth tier).

The visitors were the better of the two sides in the opening stages but it was Lanzarote that should have gone a goal up. Talented winger Javi Morales seemed to have been brought down by the Granadilla keeper but the ref waved off shouts for a penalty.

The Tenerife side went up a goal up in the fifth minute by getting round the back four of Lanzarote which was not going to be the only time they did so. Striker Airam Benítez held off challenges from the Rojillos centre backs and calmly stoked the ball low past keeper Ruymán.

In the 16th minute Lanzarote man of the match Toñito made a darting run down the right flank and cut in between two defenders in the box and appeared to have his legs snatched beneath him. The ref then had two choices; a penalty or a yellow card for the winger. He chose neither and the Lanzarote crowd were stunned that they had been denied a blatant penalty.

Minutes later and a cross from the right by defender Angel Gil was met by Toñito only to see his effort cleared off the line.

Just after the half hour mark and the visitors should have extended their advantage. Another ball over the top created mayhem in the Lanzarote defence and midfielder José Carlos found himself with just Ruymán to beat. The midfielder won that battle but his neat chip bounced off the top of the bar and off for a goal kick to the relief of the home crowd.

Lanzarote then steadied their defence and comfortably saw out the remainder of the half and looked content going into the break a goal down rather than two.

The course of the game completely changed around in the second half. Lanzarote began to dominate possession but Granadilla showed that they were not going to just sit back and protect their lead. Midfielder Nahor saw his long range effort tip the top of the woodwork and on every break they were threatening.

Lanzarote drew level in the 62nd minute following some delightful one touch football. Superb passing between three Lanzarote veterans, Torres, Rubén Rodríguez and Jotha released Toñito in full flight. He surged down the right wing then cut inside and fed a perfectly weighted pass to his overlapping team mate. Rosmen´s clever run in between the two defenders gave him the chance for a strike and he powered in a left foot strike into the far corner of the net.

The intensity of the match was thrilling. Five minutes after the leveler Toñito let rip with a cracker from 30 yards. His power blaster from the centre looked destined for the top corner but keeper Jairo at full stretch brilliantly tipped around the post.

Lanzarote were now playing their best football of the match. In the 71st minute a pin point cross from Rúben Rodríguez found the head of Jonathan Torres. The back to form striker used the weight of the cross to maximize power and glanced the ball beyond the reach of the Tenerife keeper to give his side a deserved 2-1 lead.

The Rojillos were in command and to anyone who has ever played football will know that that awe of confidence can be shattered in a second.

Three minutes after going in front the major controversy of the day was about to take place. A ball harmlessly through the centre was shielded back to his keeper by Guayo. The Granadilla striker chasing the ball went down when he got to Guayo and the ref ordered a penalty kick to the shock of the Lanzarote faithful. The Lanzarote players were furious and picked up three yellow cards but nothing changed the mind of the official.

Ivan Martín stepped up and sent Ruymán the wrong way to send his side level at two apiece. The ref was getting a slagging from the crowd and to be fair to the crowd he had made some poor decisions through the course of the match but to be fair to the official I believe he got the penalty correct.

Shielding the ball is accepted in all levels of football when players run the ball out for a goal kick or a corner. This is obstruction and makes it impossible for an opponent to make a genuine attempt at a tackle without committing a foul. Whether the ref should have awarded an indirect free kick is another cause for debate.

The RojillosRosmen but his header shaved the post and into the side netting and the Rojillos were forced to settle for a point in a highly entertaining duel.

Lanzarote´s lead at the top has been cut to three points with Las Palmas B winning 4-0 who also has a game in hand.

Next week Lanzarote are away but are playing at home if that makes any sense. Lanzarote´s only other club in this division are Marítima and they will face the leagues top scorers U.D. Lanzarote at the joint home of both clubs. Marítima have had a quite incredible start to the season as prior to last Sundays match were the only unbeaten club in the league. Unfortunately they have only won once and have drawn all the others. In another twist of fate their first defeat of the season 4-1 away to fourth placed side C.D. Vera has now put the other Conejero (local) side into the relegation places.

The Sting: Wasps take on the Lions and Win.

Thanks to Dave and the guys at Hull Wasps for this report.  Wasps continue their great start to the season, with an impressive win at the Lions.

Hull Wasps 96 Middlesbrough Lions 65


A depleted Hull Wasps side made it 4 straight wins with another convincing victory, this time at the hands of Middlesbrough Lions.


Wasps came into the game without starting point guard John Kelsey and forwards Rob Birchmore and Damien Keegan but put together another strong performance in front of their home crowd.

Hull led all the way after outscoring the visitors 28-16 in the first quarter. It puts them second in National League Division Four North at this early stage of the campaign.

The game also saw the return of former Wasps player-coach, James Coulson, who came off the bench to put in a solid performance.

Player-coach John Brignell scored 21 points, 10 in the first quarter, to stay among the league's leading scorers. Captain Jamie Goodwin added 16 and guard Matt Fawcett hit 14 as all 11 Wasps players got onto the scoresheet.

March to the Arch: Fat Boy Slim draws Seagulls at Home against the Cards - Hells Bells

This weekend saw March to the Arch concentrate on the F.A.Cup and Women’s F.A.Cup. Woking beat Eastleigh 3-2 in the F.A.Cup, to set up a 1st Round trip to Brighton & Hove Albion. Norman Cook aka Fat Boy Slim draws Brighton at Home against the Cards. Picture from the match supplied by David Holmes and Match report by Brian Caffarey, both from the Official Woking website.

We are waiting for the Weymouth Ladies result away at Frome Town.

Woking 3 Eastleigh 2.

This game was preceded by a minute’s applause for Colin Lippiatt, whose huge contribution to Woking FC and to other clubs was recalled in the many warm tributes in the matchday programme.

Colin will always be remembered at Kingfield for the vital part he played in the Chapple/Lippiatt glory years of FA Cup, FA Trophy and league success. All Woking fans were hoping that the present team could mark the day, fittingly, with a win that would take the Club once more into the FA Cup 1st Round. The omens weren’t good, given the side’s recent form, but Colin would have been proud of the fighting spirit they showed in coming back from an early goal and, in the end, deservedly taking their place in tomorrow’s First Round Proper draw.

Graham Baker was able to bring Adam Doyle back into central defence on his return from suspension. Jerome Maledon was favoured over Francis Quarm to partner Mark Ricketts in central midfield, with Ryan Blake on the left flank. Elvis Hammond made his home debut up front with Craig Faulconbridge.

Eastleigh were quicker off the mark than their hosts and were rewarded with a goal with only two minutes gone. Richard Gillespie’s curling effort from distance, beating Andy Little’s dive to his left, was well executed but the Woking defence was at fault in allowing him the space to turn and shoot. The only consolation for Woking fans was that the goal had come so early that there was virtually the whole of the match still to try to retrieve the game.

Woking continued to live a little dangerously as, a few minutes later, Gillespie attempted to help a centre on over Little. Fortunately, he did not get enough elevation and the Woking keeper had a comfortable save.

Gradually, the Cards began to get back into the game and it soon became clear that their ace in the pack was the in-form Moses Ademola on the right flank, who seemed to be able to skip past the somewhat lumbering Eastleigh defenders at will. Elvis Hammond too drew an early foul from Tom Jordan, which earned the Spitfires defender a yellow card. Mark Ricketts was working hard in midfield and Craig Faulconbridge was also doing a lot of chasing up front.

Woking’s first chance to level the scores came in the 13th minute when Moses Ademola rose to glance a header just over the bar. The tricky Woking wide man was soon in action again, beating his man and putting a cross just behind his team mates, while Elvis Hammond was just beaten to a through ball by the Eastleigh keeper.

Woking perhaps needed a stroke of luck in this tie and it certainly came in the 20th minute. As the ball dropped around the Woking penalty area it was hooked onto the post and then rolled along the goal line before being cleared. Not many Woking fans would have given much for the Cards’ chances at two-nil down.

Perhaps Woking sensed that the gods might be with them after all as they worked hard for an equaliser. Ademola teased the Eastleigh defence in the penalty area before pulling the ball back intelligently to Jerome Maledon. Jerome’s side-footed attempt to place the ball just inside the post was only a fraction out. But the Cards did not have long to wait for what was becoming a deserved equaliser. On the half-hour mark Ademola did superbly to break through two defenders and then skip over another tackle before playing the ball inside to Maledon. The Woking midfielder did not connect properly but his shot crept in off the post to level the scores at 1-1.

Woking came close to taking the lead shortly afterwards when Faulconbridge’s flick released Hammond down the left. A slightly heavy first touch from Ricketts just enabled the Eastleigh keeper to block his shot from the resulting cross, with the ball spinning up and away for a corner.

The visitors briefly threatened with a header before, in the 41st minute, Ademola produced another piece of magic to earn the Cards a half-time lead. Turning inside quickly on receiving the ball, he steered an awkward diagonal cross through the Eastleigh defence towards the far post, where Faulconbridge had the relatively simple past of knocking the ball past the keeper.

Half-time: Woking 2 Eastleigh 1

It seemed unlikely at half-time that there wouldn’t be more goals in this game, with both defences looking a little vulnerable, and so it proved. Woking came close initially through Hammond as he tore into the box on the Woking left but the angle was too tight to beat the keeper. Almost immediately Eastleigh broke down their left, with ex-Card Jamie Slabber picking up the cross and making space for himself to shoot through defender and keeper to make it 2-2.

Ademola was nearly able to respond immediately when a long high ball came to him from Aswad Thomas. But, with only the keeper in front of him, he wasn’t able to bring it down and the chance was gone.

Eastleigh battled back and for a while it looked as though they were more likely to take the lead again. Gillespie had a snap shot which went wide and then another effort was messily cleared over the bar. Anane broke clear at pace but his pass to Ademola simply played his team mate into the hands of the Eastleigh defence. The visitors pegged the home side back again for a while before another break saw Blake lob a short ball through to Hammond, with an Eastleigh defender hammering his attempted clearance against one of his own players.

In the 66th minute, though, the pace of the Woking attack caught out the slow-moving opposition defence again. Ademola played the ball over a defender for Hammond. The defender’s attempted clearance rebounded off Hammond’s body and he was able to race on into the area and lift the ball over the Eastleigh keeper for his first goal for the Club. Ironically, it looked as though Gilroy had been just about to come in his place: a change duly made some ten minutes later.

Could Woking hold on to their lead? Andy Little worried home fans with a loose throw-out but more than made amends shortly afterwards with a brave punch clear from a free-kick. Ricketts, meanwhile, had produced a very respectable low drive which fizzed wide of the post.

Eastleigh threw on two tall substitutes and it was pretty clear that their game plan was now to throw as many crosses as possible into the Woking box. But the Cards came close to extending their lead in the 79th minute. Two good crosses from Blake saw Faulconbridge mis-direct a header before Thomas flicked the ball just over the bar. Ademola then had a fierce shot blocked as the Woking fans in the LGS finally came to life. As Eastleigh threw more men forward, more opportunities for quick breaks fell Woking’s way, but Gilroy wasn’t able to get enough height as he tried to chip the Eastleigh keeper from the edge of the area.

Graham Baker brought Francis Quarm on for Ricketts and Alan Inns on for ‘man of the match’ Ademola as he sought to hang on to a vital win. His hard-working side had to deal with a few more free-kicks – and on one occasion Little had to punch clear after Thomas was beaten – but they managed to prevent Eastleigh from getting any real momentum and the final whistle brought a deserved, and very welcome, victory and a place in tomorrow’s cup draw.

Let’s hope that this win – and in particular the three goals scored – produces a confidence boost that can carry over into the Cards’ league form, starting next Saturday at Hampton and Richmond.

Woking: Andy Little, Ricky Anane, Aswad Thomas, Mark Ricketts (Francis Quarm 80), Joe McNerney, Adam Doyle, Moses Ademola (Alan Inns 84), Jerome Maledon, Craig Faulconbridge, Elvis Hammond (Dave Gilroy 76), Ryan Blake

Unused subs: Matt Pegler, Ola Sogbanmu, Sam Hurrell, Josh Watkins

Booked: Jerome Maledon

Sponsor’s MOTM: Moses Ademola (pictured)

Attendance: 1048

Kult & Punk: St Pauli fall to the bottom side in Week 9

Kult & Punk put aside their restraining order and lifted this report from the official Bundasliga site.  Week 9 saw the mighty Saints lose at the Merc. Next week we promise to drag K&P away from their jugs in Zoe's Bar and go and watch a game. 

They apologise for no report on last weeks game, this was due to operational difficulties, actually an unusually strong guest ale.

VfB Stuttgart  2   FC St. Pauli  0.

VfB Stuttgart finally rose off the bottom of the table on Sunday evening thanks to a 2-0 victory at home to FC St. Pauli.

The Swabians' second victory of the season and first under new coach Jens Keller came courtesy of goals in either half from Georg Niedermeier and Zdravko Kuzmanovic. VfB rise four places up the standings to 14th, while St. Pauli are left ruing a host of first-half misses as they drop to tenth.

Niedermeier opens the scoring

The visitors began a hard-fought first half the better of the two sides and were somewhat unfortunate to go behind in the 19th minute when Niedermeyer rose highest to head in a Timo Gebhart corner. Zdravko Kuzmanovic almost added a quickfire second three minutes later, but his strike from long distance nestled onto the roof of the net.

But Pauli remained undeterred and would have deserved their equaliser had Stuttgart 'keeper Sven Ulreich not denied Matthias Lehmann superbly on 23 minutes after the midfielder let fly from the edge of the box. Carlos Zambrano was then desperately unlucky to see his dipping volley canon back off the bar, before Lehmann again saw a long-range strike repelled by the fists of Ulreich.

Kuzmanovic makes sure

Serdar Tasci had a decent header turned around the post by Pauli 'keeper Thomas Kessler on the stroke of half-time, and there were chances at either end following the restart. First Cacau saw his strike from range turned wide by the busy Kessler, while Marius Ebbers saw his header tipped over at the other end by Ulreich before Tasci had to heroically clear Max Kruse's dinked finish off the line.

Cacau struck a loose ball narrowly over from the edge of the box before coming within an inch of providing the perfect cross for Gebhart shortly before the hour, and the result was put beyond doubt with 79 minutes on the clock. Substitute Ciprian Marica broke free down the right, pulling back for Serbian international Kuzmanovic to sweep into the near corner from the edge of the box, ensuring the hosts were finally able to celebrate following a testing last few weeks.

Stuttgart: Ulreich - Celozzi, Niedermeier, Tasci, Boka (Molinaro 82') - Kuzmanovic, Träsch - Gebhart, Gentner (Harnik 38') - Pogrebnyak (Marica 71'), Cacau

Pauli: Kessler - Lechner, Zambrano, Thorandt, Oczipka - Boll (Bruns 63'), Lehmann - Kruse (Naki 59'), Asamoah (Takyi 84'), Bartels - Ebbers

Goals: 1-0 Niedermeier (19'), 2-0 Kuzmanovic (79')

Attendance at the Mercedes Benz Arena: 44,950 (sold-out)

Tweddle lands third world title on brilliant day for Britain

Congratulations Beth, report taking in full from our friends at Inside the Game


Beth Tweddle claimed her third world title with gold on the uneven bars on a stunning day for British gymnastics at the World Championships in Rotterdam.

The 25-year-old, the champion on the floor last year, regained the title she first won in 2006 with a near-flawless routine on her signature piece of equipment while her main rivals faltered.

Teenager Dan Purvis claimed his first World Championship medal by taking bronze on the floor, while Beijing bronze medallist Louis Smith collected silver on the pommel horse.

The 21-year-old was looking to put behind him memories of last year in London when he fell off the equipment, and he achieved that aim in style.

Tweddle was thrilled with her win, a result she believes is down to long, hard hours in training.

She capitalised as Chinese rivals China's He Kexin and Huang Qiushuang both fell.

"I've said from the beginning it was theirs to lose and mine to gain," said Tweddle.

"That's what happened.

"It means everything to me to regain the bars title.

"I have worked so hard day in, day out in the gym for this, so I'm very proud. I wasn't watching the previous routines but from the noise of the crowd I could tell the two Chinese girls ahead of me had fallen.

"I tried to remain calm but I knew at that point that if I went clean I had a great chance of winning the title."

Second to Russia's Aliya Mustafina, who had already won the all-round title and team gold at these Championships.

It gives Tweddle's hopes for London 2012 a massive boost.

"Everyone keeps telling me how old I am but the motivation is there, and the main motivation is London 2012," she said.

"After Beijing, someone showed me an interview I had done where I said I'd be far too old for 2012, but since then I've been getting the results - and why give up on something you're still enjoying?

"I've got every title to my name now apart from an Olympic one and I'd be happy with any Olympic medal, it doesn't have to be gold."

Smith, meanwhile, put his Olympic challenge back on track with his performance as he finished second to Hungary's Krisztian Berki.

"This medal really rounds of a fantastic competition for Britain," said Smith, a 21-year-old from Huntingdon.

"For me personally, I've come here and hit every routine clean, having put a lot of pressure on myself after falling last year and I’m very proud that I made no mistakes and proved myself once again.”

Purvis, who had finished fifth in the all-round final, was naturally elated with his first World Championship medal in a competition won by Greece's Eleftherios Kosmidis with Japan's Kohei Uchimura claiming silver.

"It’s really a dream come true to win a World medal," said the 19-year-old from Liverpool.

"I was watching the scores come in and knew it would be tough to be up there but I managed to hold my nerve.

"It been an amazing year for me but most of all its been great year for Great Britain.”

Fix 'n' Mix: Woking & Weymouth Ladies in March to the Arch

Another busy weekend in March to the Arch.  Last week Potters Bar managed to earn a replay in the F.A.Trophy against Wealdstone.  Bar held the stones to a 2-2 draw, but were subsequently beaten 3-1 at home.  Wealdstone now travel to Kingstonian in the 2nd qualifying round.  In the F.A.Youth Cup, Thurrock progressed to the 1st Round with a 3-0 win at Stotfold, they now face Leyton Orient.  This weekend sees the F.A.Cup and Women's F.A.Cup stages of March to the Arch.  In the F.A.Cup, Woking host Eastleigh in the 4th Qualifying Round, the winners move onto the 1st Round proper.  In the Women's F.A.Cup, Weymouth Ladies travel to Frome Town in the 2nd Qualifying Round.

Harpenden Rugby entertain neighbours St Albans at Redbourn Lane on Saturday in the League.

FC St Pauli travel to VFB Stuttgart on Sunday.  St Pauli won 3-2 last weekend, but unfortunately we were unable to provide a match report. Kult and Punk will be on the case this weekend.

UD Lanzarote league campaign continues at home to Atletico Granadilla, lets hope their good run continues.

Chelmsford Chieftains are on the road after their return to the Chelmsford Rink last weekend.  On Saturday they travel to Bracknall Hornets and Sunday they cross the water to Kent, to play Invicta Dynamo.

In basketball Hull Wasps play at home to Middlesbrough Lions in the league.  Tip Off is 7.30pm on Saturday at the Bonus Arena.

Jesmond Parish Churches Hockey Club.  The ladies have the weekend off, but the men travel to Northumbria St Georges on Saturday.

Other fixtures of note.  St Albans City travel to Luton Town on Saturday in the F.A.Cup 4th Qualifying Round.  Good luck to John Gibson, Steve Castle and all the Saints.

In the Ilford & District League, Redbridge Elite host St Francis.  Elite hope to get back to winning ways.

Speedway sees the 1st leg of Promotion/Relegation play-off for the Elite League.  Newcastle Diamonds welcome Ipswich Witches.

Enjoy your sport this weekend and good luck to all. Its Your Life, Your Sport.

Sport Inspires: BE PART OF IT.

20:12 – Brighton, Hove and District. 20 Events, 12 Sports in 1 Area

Welcome to our second 2012 attempt, this post covering Brighton, Hove and District. 2012 covers 20 sport clubs or events, over 12 sports in 1 area.

The events featured in this post will take place between 21st October – 26th October. Please double check with clubs/events websites to confirm fixtures, venue and timings.

Horse Racing: Brighton Racecourse host a meeting tomorrow 21st October. First race is 2pm, but get there early to enjoy the atmosphere.

Brighton Greyhound Stadium host meetings Thursday & Saturday with some Sunday meetings. Doors open 6.30pm

Football: Brighton & Hove Albion are having a fantastic season under the leadership of Gus Poyet. This Saturday sees them entertaining Yeovil Town at the Withdean, kick off 3pm.

In the Sussex County League, Haywards Heath entertains Saltdean kick off 3pm.

The Brighton, Hove and District League have a full programme, with the likes of Ampilo v Portslade Athletic.

Ryman League 1 (South) side Whitehawks travel to Sittingbourne and Blue Square South side Lewes are also on their travels, but check the clubs website for future home fixtures.

Brighton Bandits next home game is the 31st October versus Trowbridge Tigers. The Bandits are Brightons only LGBT team.

Women’s Football: Brighton & Hove Albion ladies host Cardiff City Ladies on Sunday kick off 2pm at the Withdean.

Rugby: Brighton Blues entertain Midwhitgiftian at Waterhall on Saturday kick off 3pm.

Worthing Rugby plays Dings Crusaders in the National League 2 (South) League, starting 3pm.

Hove RFC host London Irish Amateurs kick off 3pm.

East Grinstead plays Maidstone in London 2 South East League on Saturday.

Women’s Rugby: Hove RFC ladies play Henley on the 24th kick off 14.30.

Hockey (Women): Brighton & Hove Hockey Club play Wimbledon in the South Division 2. Match to be played at Falmers on the 23rd October start 12pm.

Hockey (Men): Brighton & Hove Hockey Club play Milton Keynes in the South Premier. Match starts at 1.30pm 23rd October at the Uni.

Lacrosse: The men’s Lacrosse side Brighton Panthers play Colchester in the East 1 League. 23rd October start 2pm.

Netball: Brighton Netball Club play in the BMW League their next game is not until November 16th v Hornets. Check their website.

Basketball; BBL Basketball has long since left Brighton itself, but why not travel along to Worthing, to watch the Thunder. Check their website for details. Next home game 30th October versus Essex Pirates.

YellowWave Beach Sports: Ok, it’s getting too cold. Why not have a trip to the YellowWave Beach Sports centre and see what is going on. Volleyball, Beach Soccer and Beach Rugby. Leagues for all, have a visit register now for next year, there could still be some Beach Winter Sports activities available.

Next week we will be looking at the Newcastle Area for our 2012, please contact us if you have an event or fixture you want included.

Obstacles in the way before Rebecca can Cut a Dash for Charity.

Friend of SportTrades, Rebecca Hedges will be taking part in the Sussex Obstacle Dash. The Sussex Obstacle Dash is no ordinary running race. Individuals or teams can enter and can choose from a tough 5km or 10km distance. The challenge is you must also tackle an obstacle around every 500 metres. The playground for this fun is the South of England Centre in Ardingly, West Sussex. The date for 2010 is 21st November.

Rebecca will be part of the Key Travel team competing in the event. Key Travel are a travel management company dedicated to the not for profit sector.

Following a company wide vote, Maternal and Childhealth Advocacy International (MCAI) has been chosen as their Charity of the Year for 2010.

MCAI works to alleviate the suffering of mothers and children in countries where there is extreme poverty, armed conflict or other disaster. With the help of local professionals they deliver hands-on maternal and child friendly healthcare, specifically in hospitals but also integrating closely with primary healthcare. They provide training in emergency care for medical and nursing staff using the educational materials they develop.

Help Rebecca raise sponsorship for this event, go to her just giving page now. http://www.justgiving.com/SODRUNTMC

Sol y Futbol: Victory for Rojillos leave Victoria not amused.

Our man Ian Lane reports as Lanzarote win away again, to continue their season on the top of the pile.

C.D. VICTORIA 1 LANZAROTE 3


U.D. Lanzarote have been firing on all cylinders since the start of the season and after this latest away victory it reads; played nine, won seven, drawn one and lost one. This Championship winning form has shot the Rojillos to the top of the league with four point’s breathing space.

The Rojillos began the game half asleep and were fortunate in the first minute that they did not go a goal down. Midfielder Carlos Tutu fired in a cross come shot only to see his effort rebound off the foot of the post with a team mate inches away from a tap in.

Lanzarote slowly got themselves back into the game and it didn’t take long to reap rewards. In the 20th minute Javi Betancourt blasted in a low and hard strike from just inside the box which travelled under the keeper to give his side a 0-1 lead.

The La Palma side steadied the ship and held the majority of possession but rarely threatened the Lanzarote keeper. Each time the Rojillos won the ball they looked dangerous and should have extended their advantage.

As it was, two minutes before the break and the home side leveled. A cross from Alexander from the left wing was completely missed by the experienced Jotha which left the Lanzarote keeper flat footed as the ball rolled inside the far post.

Four minutes into the second half and the La Palma goal scorer Alexander, luck ran out. He picked up his second yellow and was ordered off the field by the official. Tackles then began flying in and both sets of players were warned to calm down by the Ref.

Mid way through the second half and Jonathan Torres headed in his first goal of the season to regain the lead for the Rojillos. Torres has had a couple of niggling injuries this season and hasn’t been as sharp as normal. Following a good substitute display last week the Rojillos star striker was rewarded with a start in the initial eleven and proved his undoubted ability to manager Quico De Diego.

In the 89th minute Lanzarote sealed all three points. A great ball by Rosman found sub Yaco and with the goal at his mercy easily beat the Victoria keeper to end the game comfortably at 1-3.

Next week, Tenerife side Atlético Granadilla will be the visitors. Their goalkeeper, Marino, will be familiar with most of the Lanzarote players and backroom staff following his 12 years he spent wearing a Rojillo shirt.

GOALS

0-1 min 20 Javi Betancourt
1-1 min 43 Alexander
1-2 min 74 Jonathan Torres
1-3 min 89 Yaco

A Cylist In France: A Season Review

It's been a while but here's our latest update from our cyclist in France.

Andy Phillips's blog posts have been a popular addition to our blog and will continue to do so on SportTrades Pulse.

For those of you who are new to Andy and our blog, Mr Phillips is a Cat 2 cyclist whose progress we have followed throughout his season.

Here's his final post of the season. Before you read it, I'd like to say thanks to Andy for his blogs so far which have been a great addition to SportTrades: Pulse.

As a cycling fan myself, it's been great to read what it's like to be a cyclist and I'm already looking forward to next season when Andy starts writing up again. Anyway less of the introduction, I'll hand over to Mr Phillips and let him do the talking as he looks back overall at his season.

Andrew:Well I did not win my weight in apples. In fact I did not win very much over the season. My goals were to win a race, to get on the podium at the Departmental Championships and to go up to category 1.

I did not achieve any of these. Perhaps my goals were too vague, perhaps my training was not adequate enough or perhaps racing in only my second year in category 2 was just a lot harder than I thought it was going to be.

I am not sure. I think I am a strong rider but it isn't always the strongest that wins. I have found it hard this year as I still do not know many of the riders in cat 2. I don't know who to watch out for !! Also tactically I still make lots of mistakes. I am sure I can win a race but I need to learn how to if that makes any sense.

The season started good and proper on 28th March. I rode well in the first few races finishing just outside the top 10. Some mistakes along the way but some strong rides especially at Montamise where the peloton split into two and I managed to chase and catch up with the leading group on my own. Was very happy with that and it was cramp on the final lap which ruined my chances of a top 10.

The 24th of April saw my first Podium. 5th at La Rousselière. I was very pleased with this as in this particular race the 1st and 2nd cats went off together, the 1st cats having to do one more lap than us. The pace was very fast and set by the the 1st cats.

I spent most of the race towards the back of the peloton more or less hanging on. On the last lap it was all still together and I got myself to the front. I came round the final bend in 3rd position and was up there with the big boys. Yep I can do this!

It really is a bone of contention with me though that quite often the 1st and 2nd cats go off together. It just ruins the races.

Sometimes 1st cats will breakaway and by luck they can take some 2nd cats, who have been lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time, with them and then it's race over. They clear up on the Primes and we might be racing for 5th place. It's not fair.

The Departmental Championship was a bit of a disaster. In this race we are just up against people in our age group. Unfortunately I skidded on some oil and crashed.

After April on most occasions I have been there or there abouts.

I have had eight top 10 finishes and two 4ths. In fact there is some footage of me on youtube finishing 6th at La Chapelle Baton. Here's one of the vid's of me taken on the stage. Please excuse the language, lol.



I have had some bad luck along the way, a couple of mechanicals and another accident at St Fraigne. This was really frustrating as i managed to chase down a 5 man break.

The race was there for the taking but unfortunately one of the guys cut across me going up a hill and it took me and one of my team mates out. I was very cheesed off but that is cycling and it happens even to the best sometimes.

So no wins and certainly not enough points to go up to category one, which is slightly annoying but that’s cycling I guess.

St Fraigne was a great race as we road passed our friends Bed and Breakfast called Le Moulin de Merlageau. I can't forget to mention Babs and Lorna here as every lap they were out there cheering me on.

The two of them were waving feather dusters and holding up banners! They even had a Karaoke machine rigged up in the garden to sing a few songs and to make sure I could hear them! What a laugh and when I crashed they were there to do the First Aid. Certainly something I won't forget in a hurry.

The last race of the season took me to a place called Secondigny on 10th October. Every year there is a cycle race which coincides with the annual Fete De Pommes.

The atmosphere was fantastic. Lots of people watching the race, a brass band which played tunes for us when we set off, a fun fair and displays of various scenes all made out of apples.

The race was very fast with the 1st and seconds going of together. It was hilly and hard. I enjoyed it and again finished in the top 10. Yes it's true the winner wins his weight in apples. The winner just happened to be the guy who took me out at St Fraigne. So Pommes to you mate!

Well that's it from me this season. I have enjoyed writing on this blog right throughout my season.

It's been great to see the response of you guys reading my blogs and I thank you for your support, as your support does mean alot to me out here in France.

Remember you can follow me on facebook by becoming a fan of ‘The English Cyclist In France’’. I can also be found on Twitter @cyclistinfrance, where you're more than welcome to chat to me about my cycling and anything else really.

Au Revoir For Now!