Keeping Active over the coming Festivities.

As we limp towards Christmas, the office party or just catching up with friends time is fast approaching.  Some of you may feel, you must exercise to reduce the excess these social occasions entail.  I, however, will try and complete a season on Football Manager, while drinking coffee and helping finishing the Christmas fayre.  I do appreciate that there are people out there, that find exercise important.  So we pride ourselves at SportTrades in providing a service - we're like that.  Our friends at Run Britain, I suggest you do a bit at a time - have asked us to remind people of this.  There are a number of runs you can enter over the festive season, to just keep fit or brush off the cobwebs.

So for events in your area and beyond please visit our friend at RunBritain at http://www.runbritain.com/.  Alternatively stay in doors and play wii and other good game consoles. Joking, stay active and keep healthy.

I have no need to say this, but apparently must.  Please enter events that you are comfortable with and always make sure that you are fit enough mentally and medically to complete.

March to the Arch: FC United take the Seagulls to a replay

As you know our March to the Arch feature concentrated on the F.A.Cup this weekend.  The following report of the Brighton & Hove Albion v FC United of Manchester match, was taking in full from our friends at FC United directly from their website.  The winners of the replay will host Portsmouth in the 3rd Round.  Our adopted club, as far as the feature, is Brighton, but we wanted a report on behalf of the Real United, in celebration of their development news at Ten Acres. Just a quick note regarding Fix 'n' Mix feature. UD Lanzarote had the weekend off and Harpenden Rugby did not make it to Braintree in the cup, so there will be no reports from those 2 features this week.

This report thanks to http://fc-united.co.uk/ by Victoria Fullen.

Brighton & Hove Albion 1   FC United of Manchester 1

Sam Ashton saved an injury time penalty to keep FC United’s FA Cup dream alive with a 1-1 draw at League One leaders Brighton & Hove Albion meaning the sides will replay during the week commencing Monday 6th December at Gigg Lane.

The Reds gained a shock lead five minutes before half-time through Nicky Platt and they were just seven minutes away from pulling off one of the greatest FA Cup upsets ever before Fran Sandaza bundled home an equaliser to set up a frantic finish.

The result was even more incredible given the fact that FC United played with 10 men for 26 minutes after Scott McManus was sent off for violent conduct. Hearts were in mouths right at the death as Karl Munroe conceded a 96th minute penalty but Ashton became FC United’s latest FA Cup hero with a fantastic save and it was clear to see United’s travelling army of supporters were once again feeling on top of the world.

Saturday’s encounter at the Withdean Stadium was the biggest to date in FC United’s short history as the youngest and lowest ranked team remaining in the FA Cup came up against the highest placed side in the competition at this stage.

United were buoyed prior to kick off by the news that Ben Deegan and Kyle Jacobs had been given the go ahead to line up in the starting XI after coming through late fitness tests.

The game got off to a lively start and Ashton was called into action early on as Glenn Murray produced the first shot of the game for the home side within the first two minutes.

FC United’s first real attack came just short of five minutes as Deegan carried the ball forward and picked out Mike Norton who battled in the six yard box, under pressure from two defenders. Half-hearted penalty claims were made as the United striker appeared to go down inside the area, but Brighton managed to clear and break forward and the Reds were forced to deal with constant Albion pressure as the home side looked for a way through with the intention of taking the lead early on in the tie.

This could easily have happened was it not for Ashton who produced an excellent save to deny a point-blank header from Ashley Barnes. The Brighton no. 9 was picked out at Ashton’s left post and the strong header goalwards looked to be on course for the back of the net, however the United keeper stepped up to the plate to make a top-class stop.

As the half progressed, the gulf in the rankings of the two sides – 112 league places - began to show increasingly, with Brighton enjoying long spells of possession and United largely having to sit deep to soak up the Albion pressure.

Ashton again was on hand to prevent the hosts from gaining the advantage as Liam Bridcutt unleashed a strong shot from the edge of the area which the keeper did well to parry to safety. United were then able to break down the right and Carlos Roca skilfully pulled the ball away from two defenders and found Norton in the area. The forward laid the ball off to Platt who hit it first time, firing across the keeper into the bottom left corner, stunning Albion and giving the Reds the lead against the run of play.

With Platt being responsible for breaking the deadlock at a similar point in the first round against Rochdale, the supporters and players could be forgiven for immediately thinking back to that epic encounter at Spotland and wondering whether another huge upset was on the cards.

FC began the second half fairly brightly as Jerome Wright, playing in the left-back role, carried the ball down to the dead-ball line and did well to cross. Platt almost had the opportunity to go for United’s second, however Peter Brezovan got to the ball just ahead of the midfielder.

Brighton then had a very good chance to level courtesy of a free-kick conceded by Deegan 25 yards from goal. Cristian Baz drove the set piece low through the wall and United were left relieved as the ball sailed narrowly past the left post.

As the hour mark approached, Albion threatened the FC goal on several occasions, including Baz’s close range header over the cross bar. 20 minutes into the half, FC’s captain Jacobs was forced to hand over the armband to Jimmy Holden who came on in a like-for-like swap to replace the right-back who had struggled in his first game back from an injury picked up two weeks ago at Northwich.

Just minutes later, the United back-line was dealt a further blow when McManus was dismissed from the field of play. The officials deemed the centre-half to have used his elbow to strike Brighton substitute Gary Hart during an off-the-ball clash.

Down to ten men, the Reds opted to bring on Martin Parker to complete the remainder of the game in the centre of defence. This was at the expense of Deegan who was substituted, leaving United with just one up front.

Lone striker Norton continued to hassle the Brighton back line at every opportunity and with a quarter of an hour to go, the Reds centre forward did well to hold onto the ball under pressure and go for goal from outside the area. The shot was deflected wide for a corner. Roca sent the ball and United nearly stole another goal but Munroe’s powerful header was just held by Brezovan.

Despite spirited attempts to take the game to Brighton, the home side looked intent on making the extra man advantage count and unfortunately with seven minutes to go, United could hold on no longer as Albion equalised. The ball came in from the left and assistant manager Mauricio Taricco’s header goalwards was put beyond Ashton by Sandaza.

Tense moments ensued as FC sat deep for the majority of the final stages to prevent a late Brighton winner. Munroe kept the Reds in the game as the board was held up for six minutes of additional time, heading Barnes’ close range effort off the line and over the bar.

The centre half was then responsible for conceding a penalty in the final minute of injury time, after bringing down Sandaza with a robust shoulder charge. Elliott Bennett stepped up and FC United prepared themselves for some heartache as Brighton looked almost certain to snatch a late victory. However, Ashton capped off a stunning performance by producing a fantastic save to divert the ball to his right.

United then hung on until the final whistle and the scenes behind the goal for several minutes after summed up the immense pride in the team who have undoubtedly pulled off an incredible achievement in earning a place in the third round draw after a strong, spirited performance at the home of the highest ranked team in the second round.

The Reds now have a week and a half to prepare for what is sure to be an unforgettable occasion as the two sides battle it out in the replay at Gigg Lane to compete for a dream place in the third round of the FA Cup.

Report by Victoria Fullen

Kult & Punk: Almeida Hat-Trick consign St Pauli to another defeat.

Kult & Punk watched from Zoe's Bar in disgust.  How could those dancing girls from the Sushi Bar get coverage in the Observer, regarding the space giving to them on Match Days - shocking! Thankfully an 8% guest ale, numbed the pain of watching St Pauli go down to a 3-0 defeat at Vermin Brennan.

Werder Bremen 3  FC St Pauli 0

Three goals from Hugo Almeida earned Werder Bremen a much-need victory at home to St. Pauli on Sunday.

The Portuguese striker bagged the lot in the 3-0 win over the promoted outfit, before blotting his copybook by being sent off for retaliation with ten minutes remaining.

Long time coming

The result gives Thomas Schaaf's men their first maximum points haul in eight matches, while St. Pauli's form slump continues - they are now without a win since Matchday 8.

Werder required all of 52 seconds to end a 450-minute competitive scoring drought, Hugo Almeida picking up a diagonal through-ball and running on to slot it past guest keeper Thomas Kessler. St. Pauli's response was immediate, an unmarked Gerald Asamoah getting on the end of a cross from the left and heading it onto the bar just a minute later.

Bremen forge ahead

Then it was promptly back to the other end in a turbulent opening few minutes, Kessler saving well from Per Mertesacker's shot on the rebound following an Almeida free kick. The last man in the St. Pauli back row then pulled off a double save from Marko Marin in the eighth minute, before a period of relative calm ensued. It lasted until Matthias Lehmann's 19th minute effort from 30 metres that had home keeper Tim Wiese stretching to tip it over the bar.

From the resultant corner the ball found its way to Marin, who sent Almeida on his way. The experienced frontman once again kept his nerve to come out on top in the one-on-one with Kessler, tucking the ball into the corner of the net to put the Green-Whites 2-0 up.

Almeida wraps things up

St. Pauli, once again, stormed right back up the park in reply and this time it was a shot from Marius Ebbers that Wiese somehow managed to tip onto the bar. It was starting to look like this would not be the Hamburg side's day. Two goals to the good, Werder now seemed happy to sit back rather more and await their chance on the break and there was little more in the way of goalmouth action for the rest of the half.

The slowed-down tempo was maintained at the start second 45, barring a couple of half-chances from shots outside the area at either end. Werder then struck for the third time in the 64th minute, Said Hsejinovic playing in a low ball which found its way to Almeida on the left-hand side of the box. The striker gave due thanks by planting it home for his and his team's third of the day.

Two off

There was unlikely to be any way back from that for St. Pauli, but Holger Stanislawski's troops battled gamely on and continued to carve out chances of their own. The next incident of note was less savoury though, as hat-trick hero Almeida received his marching orders with ten minutes to go after lashing out at St. Pauli defender Carlos Zambrano.

The guests continued to chase at least a consolation goal as the clock ticked down. In the final minute of regulation time Markus Thorandt chased rather too hard, unnecessarily chopping down Torsten Frings on the half-way line. For that, the St. Pauli defender also saw red.

Line-ups

Bremen: Wiese - Pasanen, Mertesacker, Prödl, Schmidt - Frings - Fritz, Kroos (Husejinovic 54') - Hunt (Balogun 89') � Marin (Wagner 87'), Almeida

St. Pauli: Kessler - Rothenbach, Zambrano, Thorandt, Oczipka - Boll (Naki 59') - Kruse, Asamoah, Lehmann, Bartels (Bruns 82') � Ebbers (Takyi 82')

Goals: 1-0 Almeida (1'), 2-0 Almeida (20'), 3-0 Almeida (64')

Red cards: Almeida (80'), Markus Thorandt (90')

Attendance at the Weserstadion: 36,400

The Sting: Wasps taste defeat in the League against Burnley

HULL Wasps suffered their first defeat in the league this season as they were beaten by a tough Burnley side 88-73 at the Bonus Arena after a fourth-quarter collapse.


Hull levelled a see-saw encounter with less than three minutes to go, but could not stop their promotion rivals scorching an extra 15 points from beyond the three-point line in the game’s final stages.

Player-coach John Brignell, who scored 23 points in the defeat, said the play-offs would be a distant dream if his side could not find a way to stop long-range shooters in the final stages of games.

Brignell said: “We cannot let that happen again. We have to be able to produce our best basketball down the stretch in the fourth quarters of games.

“Perhaps because all season we have been putting games to bed in the first half, we were not used to having to fight for a win in the fourth quarter.

“Our offence has been good enough to carry us through bad performances against poor teams this season, but it was never going to be enough against another good side.

“We need to get back to what we know, and that’s defence. All summer, we talked about the importance of being the best defensive team in the league. We were far from that last weekend.

“We persevered with the zone defence that has been so impressive this season and found it tough to get out to Burnley’s three-point shooters.

“Maybe we should have looked at a man-to-man defence early in the game, but I think it is too easy to say that’s the reason we allowed their shooters to get hot from the outside.

“Whether we are in a zone or a man, we need to rotate better and play defence with our hands up.

“It is now so vital that we get two wins next weekend. We will make some changes and look at starting the game with a tougher, more defensive line-up and bring our shooters off the bench to change the game later on.”

Captain Jamie Goodwin scored 17 points for the Wasps, while guard Ade Blatherwick hit 11.

Fix n Mix: F.C.United have a day on the South Coast.

Much of this weekend fixtures in the UK depend heavily on the weather.  As always, please contact the club or visit their websites for confirmation that the match is still taking place and to confirm, time, venue and day.

In March to the Arch the F.A.Cup returns.  F.C.United visit our adopted club Brighton in the 2nd Round.  A day on the south coast may see the possibility of F.C.United of Manchester play Manchester United in the 3rd Round. We are obviously following Albion after they replaced Woking as our team, so come on you Seagulls.  Still in March to the Arch, last week Wealdstone won at Brackley Town in the F.A.Trophy and are rewarded with a trip to Newport County.  In the F.A.Youth Cup, Southampton visit Bradford City on Tuesday Evening.

In our European adventure UD Lanzarote have this weekend off in Sol y Futbol. Kult & Punk have a trip to Werder Bremen on Sunday, as St Pauli try to get back into winning ways.

Geordie Hockey Sticks.  The ladies of Jesmond Parish Churches have this weekend off, but the gents play host to Sunderland. We will update you on the progress of the season to date during next week.

Men in Black.  Harpenden return to cup action, as they travel to Braintree in the Intermediate Cup.  They go there on the back of a 28-12 victory over Chiswick, which sees them 2nd in the League.

In Ice Hockey,  last week Chelmsford Chieftains had a reasonable time on their home rink.  They hammered Swindon Wildcats 13-2, but drew 2-2 the next day with Wightlink Raiders.  This weekend sees them travel to Bristol Pitbulls on Saturday and then back home on Sunday to play Cardiff Devils, face-off 18.30. Presumably this fixture will not be affected by the cold, as long as Cardiff get there.

In Basketball Hull Wasps lose their fantastic record in the league, when they are beaten at home 88-73 by Burnley.  This weekend sees the Wasps on tour in the North West.  They play Bury Blue Devils on Saturday before Sunday at Cheshire Jets.

Other fixtures to look out,  England host the world champions South Africa in the final Autumn International of the year at Twickenham.  The Old Farm Derby in the nPower Championship, as Norwich City play Ipswich Town.

Whatever you are doing this weekend take care, especially in those area with wintry conditions.

It's Your Life, Your Sport so ENJOY.

Kick it Out: Mentoring project gaining momentum ahead of Birmingham event

Kick It Out is continuing its Mentoring and Leadership Project with an event in Birmingham later this month.

The project, headed up by ex-England ace Earl Barrett, is operating in six regions across England, and on the lookout for participants interested in getting involved in the scheme, particularly people who are interested in progressing in coaching and the administration/media side of the game.

A regional mentors and mentees meeting takes place at St George’s Community Hub in Newtown on Tuesday 30th November from 6-8pm, and will provide participants in the project with the opportunity to discuss their role in detail. Refreshments will be provided.

The meeting follows on from the event held in September, which saw Mark Walters and Baggies legend Brendon Batson participate in a panel discussion aimed at addressing the issue of under-representation of diverse communities in the football industry.

The interim period has seen the project take shape, with similar events held across the country. The event at St George’s Community Hub will see some of the key mentors already identified by the project discuss their aims and liaise with the individuals they will be working with over the coming months.

Earl explained: “This event will provide everyone involved with the opportunity to gain a further understanding of the project, and will hopefully see a significant progress made towards achieving the goal of increasing minority representation at every level of the game.”

SportTrades support this and similar projects. Please visit kick it out website, to see how you can get involved. http://www.kickitout.org/

The Ashes 2010 A-Z: baggy greens, doing a Harmy and lucky red hankies

A duffer's guide covering the key Ashes terms you'll need to become acquainted with before that first morning in Brisbane




Australian conditions n. adj


Parallel cricket dimension where nothing is quite the same: alien-strength sunshine, pitches made from concrete, flies the size of crows and humidity equivalent to living at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. No Englishman has ever mastered Australian conditions. To do so would be against nature.

Baggy green n


Tearfully revered badge of the Australian Test cricketer. Emblem of sporting nationalism. Piece of Ashes iconography. Also, slightly frumpy flat cap with amusing nobble on top.

Ball of the century n


Legendary Ashley Giles delivery to Damien Martyn during 2005 series that turned from leg to hit off, signalling start of period (18 months) of English dominance. Apparently there was a similar one in the last century too.

Barmy Army n

Supporters movement formed by backpacking England fans during 1994-95 series in Australia. Since co-opted into commercial juggernaut that provides a front for paunchy sunburnt drunken men with urge to conga everywhere.

Bodyline n. adj


Intimidatory leg-side fast bowling tactics employed by Douglas Jardine's England during 192-33 Ashes tour which, if Aussies were whingeing types, might have caused a great deal of whingeing in the intervening years.

Boot camp n

Aussie innovation involving pre series character-building tasks such as abseiling, bog-snorkelling and anything that involves being shouted at by a middle-aged man with a whistle. Comes complete with unprecedented opportunity to look extremely silly three months later.

Boxing Day Test n

Famous occasion in Australian calendar as hordes of slightly frazzled men escape their families in order to take up sacred festive duty of lolling around watching cricket for eight hours drinking fizzy lager.

Can't bat, can't bowl, can't field

Label attached to Mike Gatting's touring party of 1986-87. Gatting's team went on to win the Ashes because fortunately Australia also couldn't bat, field or bowl, as well as being unable to win the toss, warm up properly or tie their laces without getting muddled up.

"The Colossus" n


Fashionable Ashes wicket celebration pose, involving spreading arms and legs to demonstrate supreme 100% physical prowess. First employed by Andrew Flintoff. Then by Brett Lee. Both of whom have since retired from Tests due to injury.

Comfort break n

Brief retreat to pavilion employed with great frequency by England bowlers during 2005 series. One such rest stop coincided with Durham whippet sub fielder Gary Pratt decisively running out Ricky Ponting at Edgbaston. He seemed upset.

David Hasselhoff n

Swaggering, small-screen legend who, according to Shane Warne, Graeme Swann is going to be "walking around like" during the current series. Apparently a compliment.

"Doing a Harmy" vb


Moment of disastrous nervous implosion while delivering opening Ashes blow on That first morning in Brisbane (see below). A career-defining moment for any cricketer. Compensations include YouTube superstardom and lifelong tenure of boozy corporate speaking circuit.

Fanatics n

Laughably contrived Aussie imitation of the Barmy Army, complete with unfortunate, politically sensitive moniker.

5-0 whitewash n


Standard Glenn McGrath pre-series result prediction. Always an amusing diversion. Right up until the moment it actually happened.

Fremantle Doctor n

Fabled Perth-based wind possessing unusual qualities of swing-assistance. While the Doctor is blowing Australians are advised not to fly or drive due to risk of "doing a lot" or "getting off the straight" in favourable conditions.

Hill, The n

Notorious Sydney fans' section known for badinage with opposition, bottle-lobbing, V-signs, harmless banter etc. Previously a grassed liquid-picnic-spot-cum-urinal. Now the cheap seats.

Kookaburra n


Australian version of a cricket ball. Much-discussed due to enigmatic properties, difficulty in bowling with and specialist technical skills required. All of which essentially derive from the fact that it falls to bits after half an hour.

Lucky red hankie, Steve Waugh's n

Aussie cricket holy relic, famously kept poking out of former captain's trouser pocket throughout seven winning series. Employed for magical properties, intimidatory value and mopping tears of joy on accidentally catching glimpse of own baggy green while batting.

MBE n. abbrev


Part of Warne's infamous sledge of Paul Collingwood in 2006-07. Warne asked Collingwood, who played only one Test in 2005, if his resultant gong stood for Must Be Embarrassing. After Cardiff 2009, Collingwood could reply that it stands for Manages to Block Everything.

Reverse swing n

English method of cheating involving making the old ball swing by impregnating it with sugary saliva, voodoo or as-yet-unidentified unfair dinkum substance. So strong is the Aussie sense of outrage on this topic their bowlers have flatly refused to master the skill themselves.

Sherminator, The n

Ian Bell. Until he finally scores a match shaping 150 in Australian conditions (see previous).

Spirit of cricket n


Famous Australian-led principles of fair play. Makes up part of the world's tiniest box set when bundled together with Australian Rules Of Etiquette and The Australian Guide To Not Talking Too Loudly In Public Places.

Targeting n

Australian tradition whereby leading bowler "outs" English batsman he intends to install as personal whipping boy (usually captain, star man, or chief posho). Warning: only appears to work properly when employed by men with names like "Glenn McGrath" or "Shane Warne".

That first morning in Brisbane n

Famed moment of truth as Ashes series commences. Go hard, come to the party and step up to the plate. Alternatively, simply relax and Do a Harmy.

"Under the Southern Cross I Stand" n

Aussie dressing room victory song. May or may not still be in use. Hard to be completely sure these days.

Urn, The n

Small plastic tourist replica traditionally waved around vaguely by victors at end of Ashes series. Still perhaps the least photogenic major sporting trophy yet devised.

This article was taking in full from our friends at Guardian Sport.

The Guardians Guide to Sleep Management for the Ashes

With the Ashes only days away, we are worried about you. So we have taking in full this advice from our friends at Guardian Sport. We do care.

As mentioned this article by Humphrey Klinkenberg was taking in full from our friends at Guardian Sport. For full coverage of the coming Ashes, follow it all in the Guardian

What are the effects of sleep deprivation?

Principally, it slows down reaction times, makes you feel tetchy, frustrated and generally exhausted. This is because the brain has not rested, not had the required Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, and, as such, there are stress chemicals moving around the body which can be cured only through a prolonged period of sleep.

What are the major health risks associated with sleep deprivation?

Constant and excessive lack of sleep can lead to heart problems, high blood pressure and even diabetes. If someone does an 'all-nighter' one day then it is imperative they get between eight and nine hours of sleep the following day; a failure to do so could lead to an instant deterioration in health. With regard to the Ashes, no one should attempt to stay awake throughout the full five days of any given Test; they must get some sleep in between, even if that means missing a day or more's play. If someone does want to watch consecutive days' play then they should take the afternoon off work, or even a whole day off work, and get some sleep before play begins that night.

What is the best way of managing sleep and staying awake?


Having a nap as soon as you get home from work is a good idea, although you should wake up at least one hour before play starts to ensure you are properly alert. Have a light meal when you do wake up and make sure it is not high in carbohydrates as that will make you feel sleepy. Instead, make the meal high in protein as that will do a better job of keeping you awake. If you get hungry during the night, when play has begun, continue to avoid carbohydrates and stick with high protein foods. Main foods to avoid: bread, chips, potatoes, doughnuts. Main foods to eat: chicken, beef, eggs, cheese, nuts.

What aids/supplements will help people stay awake and which should be avoided?


Replace the bulbs in the room where you are going to watch the Ashes with daylight bulbs which will make the room brighter and less an environment that encourages you to doze off. In that respect, it is also important to keep the room cool, which can be easily achieved by opening a window or having a fan turned on at a low setting. Do not get too comfortable, ie do not sit on a sofa where you may have previously fallen asleep. Sit on another one, or even a chair. It may also help to take notes during play, such as keeping track of the score, as this will keep the brain active and give you motivation to stay awake. Going for regular, short walks is also advisable. At all costs, avoid a large amount of caffeine as that will keep you awake, but once the effects wear off you will drop off suddenly and then feel very jittery in the morning. Alcohol should also be given a wide berth.

Any other tips?

Do not go straight to bed the day after an 'Ashes all-nighter' as a means of catching up on your sleep. There is nothing to suggest that people who sleep for 12 hours feel better or react better than people who sleep for eight or nine hours. In fact, people who sleep for 12 hours are more likely to feel more grumpy than those who get three or four hours less sleep. The body and brain needs a good night's sleep, not a long night's sleep.

What to do Wednesday

7.30am Start with a high-protein breakfast to provide energy for work and 'train' the brain to stay alert and awake for longer. Scrambled eggs, bacon and sausages are advisable

8am Walk to work if possible as this will also 'train' the brain

1pm Ensure your lunch is also made up of high-protein foods

6.30pm Take a nap as soon as you get back from work, but ensure you wake up at least one hour before play starts and have a high-protein dinner

11pm Go for a short walk as that will help get your body and brain active.

11.30pm Put daylight lamps on in the room and open a couple of windows

2am, 4.40am and 7am

Have a nap between sessions and one before getting ready for work

7.45am Take a vitamin B supplement alongside breakfast to reduce stress resulting from a lack of sleep

Humphrey Klinkenberg is a therapist at the Gloucester-based sleep clinic and consultancy, Sleepwise

Sol y Futbol: Lanzarote back on winning ways.

LANZAROTE 2 VILLA STA BRIGIDA 0

Lanzarote get back to winning ways with a 2-0 home win. There will be no further match reports until 20th December, while Ian attends to other things.

UD Lanzarote scored after 5 minutes when Rosmen netted for the Rojillos.  The lads had to wait until towards the end of the game, when Rubén Rodríguez converted a penalty in the 76th min.

We will bring you the results of the two matches played between now and then.  I will also attempt to translate the report for you, should be absolutely hilarious.

UD Lanzarote have next weekend off anyway,  but then play Las Palmas B on 5th December.  A top of the table clash.  A very important game, as both teams could well be on level points by then.

Not quite the same was at, we look forward to welcoming Ian back.

Kult & Punk: A Draw halts the run of Defeats for St Pauli

Kult & Punk in fancy dress, as St Pauli draw with Stveie Macs Wolfsburg. Here in Hamburg, Wally with the Brolly is a real person and frequents Zoes Bar. You know, Kult and Punk really do think I believe them. This picture is not Kult & Punk, however, if you have been affected with issues within this posting, please call someone and quickly.

St. Pauli passed up the chance to put some distance between themselves and the drop zone after being held 1-1 at home by a distinctly off-form VfL Wolfsburg, although the point did at least bring to an end the Hamburg side's four-game losing streak.

Steve McClaren's VfL meanwhile have won now won just one of their last seven matches and remain in the lower reaches of mid-table on 15 points, one more than St. Pauli.

Early pressure from St. Pauli

The hosts seized the initiative from the off and almost went in front in the third minute, Marius Ebbers connecting with a Max Kruse cross only to see his header rattle against the bar. St. Pauli continued to carve out the better chances in the period that followed and an effort on the turn from Kruse midway through the half pulled a fine save out of guest keeper Diego Benaglio. With just under half an hour on the clock though their endeavours paid off when defender Markus Thorandt headed home a corner taken by the industrious Kruse.

Far from sitting back on their lead, St. Pauli pressed forward in search of a second and after Bastian Oczipka went close from a free kick in the 34th minute, Matthias Lehmann (37'), Kruse once again (42') and Fabian Boll (45') all squandered further chances to give the home side a comfortable cushion by half time.

Dzeko strikes again

They were made to regret those misses when Wolfsburg finally came to life to level the contest with a goal of classic simplicity nine minutes into the second half. Mario Mandzukic knocked a long kick-out from Benaglio onto Diego, who teed it up with his head inside the box for Edin Dzeko to slip the ball past home keeper Thomas Kessler and into the corner of the net. That was the prolific Bosnian striker's ninth goal of the season.

Any hopes on the part of the visitors that the goal would spark a sustained bid to take away all three points soon proved unfounded and it was St. Pauli who looked the more likely to score again over the remainder of the match. They didn't manage to do so however and come the final whistle, must have been reflecting above all on those missed opportunities in the first half.

Line-ups

St. Pauli: Kessler - Rothenbach, Zambrano, Thorandt, Oczipka - Boll - Kruse (76' Naki), Asamoah (90' Schultz), Lehmann, Bartels (82' Bruns) - Ebbers

Wolfsburg: Benaglio - Pekarik, Kjaer, Barzagli, Marcel Schäfer - Riether, Josue (58' Madlung) - Mandzukic, Diego, Cicero (71' Hasebe) - Dzeko

Goals: 1-0 Thorandt (28'), 1-1 Dzeko (55')

Attendance at the Millerntor: 24,150

March to the Arch: Wealdstone through to 1st Round of F.A.Trophy

In our March to the Arch series, our ‘adopted’ team Wealdstone made it through to 1sr Round of the F.A.Trophy. It was their 3rd appearance in our feature.




The match report is by Steve Warren and taking in full from the official website. www.wealdstone-fc.com.

Brackley Town 0 Wealdstone 1

Wealdstone’s Sean Cronin was centre stage on Saturday, as the big defender produced a heroically brave performance in goal following the late withdrawal of Jonathan North. Regular ‘keeper North was forced to pull out of the squad for this tough FA Trophy tie due to illness on Saturday morning, and centre back Cronin, with no goalkeeping experience, stepped forward to keep a clean sheet in a memorable 1-0 victory, which sees Wealdstone through to the First Round Proper of this seasons tournament.

Despite defending resolutely at one end, Stones had to wait until the last minute of normal time to break the deadlock in this enthralling encounter with big spending Zamaretto Premier League side Brackley Town. With the game tied at 0-0 and a replay looming, Peter Dean fired in a superbly struck shot to ensure Stones place in Monday’s draw at Wembley Stadium.

With Cronin taking his place in goal, it meant there was a place in central defence for Wes Parker who returns to the side following injury. There was also a welcome return to the starting XI for top scorer Greg Ngoyi, after the striker was forced to miss the last few games due to work commitments.

Once again backed by a tremendously vocal away following, it was Wealdstone who had the first chance to open the scoring on five minutes, when Greg Ngoyi latched onto a clever ball from Alex Dyer, however his shot was well saved by the feet of Brackley’s vastly experience goalkeeper Billy Turley.

The home side began to get a foothold on proceedings though, as they pushed forward looking to test Sean Cronin. They were consistently firing high balls in and around the six yard box looking to catch the 23 year old out, however he stood firm and anything he failed to deal with the central defensive pairing of Parker and Massey mopped up admirably.

Cronin twice had to be alert midway through the first half as Brackley centre forward Anthony Thomas twice tried his luck from distance, with both shots being straight at the emergency goalkeeper who was able to get his body behind them.

Chris O’Leary perhaps should have given Stones the lead on 38 minutes, as he found himself in space following a Danny Spendlove corner; however he headed wide of the post when unmarked.

Greg Ngoyi then had his second chance of the half three minutes later, but he was again thwarted by Turley after finding himself one on one after a surging run and through ball from Kieron Forbes.

After a fairly even first half, Stones began the second half brightly, with Danny Spendlove seeing his well struck volley from 25 yards expertly palmed away by Turley, before Kieron Forbes jinked his way into the box and fired just wide.

Brackley had their first chance of the half a few minutes later, with Francis Green hitting a powerful volley from the edge of the box, but his effort was met with a fine reflex save from Cronin as he tipped the ball over for a corner.

From the resultant corner Brackley again came close, with Anthony Thomas seeing his acrobatic effort rebound off the underside of the crossbar and away to safety.

The home side thought they had taken the lead on 58 minutes, when the lively Winters played a clever cross to the far post which was headed into the net by Jason Bradley; however his celebrations were cut short by the linesman’s flag.

With the game now becoming far more open both sides had chances, with Green heading over from a good position for the home side, before Danny Spendlove’s driven cross was nearly put into his own net by Chris Willmot.

With the game coming to a conclusion and a replay looming, there was one more pivotal moment to come in the last minute. Substitute Louis Lavers sent over a cross which was only half cleared to Peter Dean on the edge of the box, who chested the ball down before driving it powerfully goalwards. Although Turley got a hand to the ball, he was unable to keep it out and it squirmed over the line, cue wild scenes behind the goal as the players, including the jubilant Cronin, went to celebrate the late winner with the Stones faithful.

It was to be the last action of note in what had been a hugely exciting cup tie, and Stones will now wait until Monday lunchtime when they find out there next opponents in what has been an action packed cup run.

Attendance: 302

Wealdstone: Cronin, Gill, Chappell, Parker, Massey, Dyer, Dean, O’Leary, Ngoyi (Fitzgerald 66), Forbes, Spendlove (Lavers 79)

Report Stuart Warren

Fix ‘n’ Mix: Wealdstone travel to Brackley Town in the Trophy and so much more.

Fix ‘n’Mix, a guide to where our adopted teams are this weekend. If you have any fixture or sporting event you want promoted, please send us the details info@sporttrades.co.uk.

Another busy weekend ahead, with more action in the March to the Arch series. Last week saw the feature cover 2 competitions, with a third added last night. On Saturday St Blazey drew 1-1 at home, but then travelled to Hengrove Athletic for the replay and won 2-0 in the F.A.Vase. St Blazey now entertain Bemerton Heath Harlequins in the 3rd Round, their 5th appearance. In the Women’s F.A.Cup, Weymouth won 1-0 away at Stoke Lane Athletic to progress to the 1st Round and a visit to Newquay. In the F.A.Cup Brighton drew 1-1 with Woking and finally set up a 2nd Round match against FC United of Manchester via penalties.

This weekend it is the turn of the F.A.Trophy in March to the Arch. Wealdstone travel to Brackley Town in the 3rd Qualifying Round.

Sol y Futbol, UD Lanzarote tries to get back on track, when they host Villa Santa Brigida in the league on Sunday.

Kult & Punk, another weekend lost in Zoë’s Bar, FC St Pauli seek to end their run of defeats; they entertain Stevie Mac and VFL Wolfsburg on Sunday.

Men in Black return to Redbourn Lane after a convincing 31-8 win at Grasshoppers. They play Chiswick in the League this Saturday.

Geordie Hockey Sticks: Both Ladies and Gentleman take to the pitch this weekend for Jesmond Parish Churches. The ladies entertain Newcastle Medics, mixed loyalties there for Nosh, while the men play Newcastle University, both matches on Saturday.

The Ice Man is busy this weekend. The Chelmsford Chieftains have two matches, both played at the brand new ice rink. On Saturday they play Swindon Wildcats face off 1740 and on Sunday Wightlink Raiders visit face off 1830.

The Sting: Hull Wasps have only one fixture this weekend as they play Burnley in the League. The Wasps lie 2nd in the table 2 pts behind Warrington Wolves with a game in hand.

As always please check local listings, the clubs website or contact the club directly for confirmation of venue, date and timing.

Whatever your sport this weekend, it’s your sport, your life - ENJOY

Kult & Punk: St Pauli more luck on the Road than at Home.

Kult & Punk have been in the jungle, they return from filming Zoes Bar annual classic ‘f**k celibacy – get me out of here’, to find St Pauli’s match report on the official Bundesliga site, copy and paste job done!. What a great guest ale last weekend by the way.


FC St Pauli 0 Bayer Leverkusen 1

Two weeks after Eintracht Frankfurt notched their first-ever Bundesliga victory away to St. Pauli, Bayer Leverkusen managed just the same feat at the Hamburg club's Millerntor Stadion.

In fact, St. Pauli have only picked up a measly four points in six games this season at their one-time local fortress and currently have the second-worst home record in the division behind Borussia Mönchengladbach.

One-sided first half

The promoted club had been banking on earning the majority of the points needed for the season target of avoiding relegation on their own turf. Instead, their latest performance at home to Leverkusen was again only half-worthy of the atmosphere generated at the ground. Having warned his players they would be in for a hot reception, Bayer coach Jupp Heynckes was taken aback by the extent to which they then dominated the first half at the Millerntor, getting in 13 attempts on goal to just the one by the hosts.

St. Pauli came out like a team transformed after the break and Gerald Asamoah was particularly unlucky with an effort that came back off the post, as Heynckes himself admitted, although, "In the end, we deserved our win.�

"Too much respect"

The home side's Carsten Rothenbach, back in action after injury, agreed, saying Leverkusen were a great side, but, "We showed them too much respect in the first half.� Reflecting on his shot against the aluminium, Asamoah said, "When you're on a roll, those chances go in. But not much is happening for us up front at the moment... we need to play from the start the way we did after half time.�

Indeed, their improvement after the interval offers plenty of hope that the team can steer clear of the relegation zone. First off though they have to turn around a current form dip that has seen them lose every game since Matchday 8 � when they bagged the sole home victory of the season so far against 1. FC Nürnberg (3-2).

"A strange feeling"

"Four straight defeats. It's a strange feeling�, remarked midfielder Florian Bruns, who has helped the club rise from the Regional League to the top flight over the past four successful years. Pointing to the chances they created after going a goal down though, he added that "We can't let ourselves be affected by creeping self-doubt now.�

Coach Holger Stanislawski was annoyed about the fact that, "We were too timid in the first half. Bayer were able to play to their strengths, we let them unfold their fast, direct game.� After the break, by contrast, "We played really well and should have scored.� Overall though, Stanislawski is not too unhappy about the team's current position: "13th after twelve games, with just 19 goals conceded. I think that's very presentable.�

Change of strategy

Not so the goals scored tally, as the coach readily concedes. St. Pauli have hit the net just twelve times in those same twelve matches, less than any other team in the top flight. "From now on we'll take things more into our own hands, even there's an increased risk of being hit on the break�, Stanislawski told the Hamburg newspaper Morgenpost: "The more we go on the offensive, the more scoring situations we'll create in the opponents' box.�

The team's first opportunity to put that theory into practice comes next Sunday against VfL Wolfsburg: another side who have yet to come away from the Millerntor with the fresh taste of victory in their mouths.

Wednesday face a tough Wednesday in Court

We don't normally post details of these campaigns in full, but they are getting far too frequent, and if it assists in any way get the message to a wider audience, then we are more than happy to help.  SportTrades offer you all the best in your campaign to save your club. The statement below is taking in full from WTID Campaign.

Wednesday 'Til I Die


The next 72 hours are absolutely crucial to the future of our football club. Currently we are told that there are still interested investors but it is beginning to look more and more likely that these investors will make their move post admin rather than before Wednesday's court case.

What could happen before Wednesday's court hearing to avoid administration?

An investor could reach an agreement with all loan note holders and the bank and could put the wheels in motion to take over the club. They would then probably choose to make a substantial payment towards or totally pay off the outstanding debt to HMRC, thus settling the winding up process. This option would prevent the loss of 10 points and would allow breathing space for a take over of SWFC to be finalised.

What happens on Wednesday if SWFC cannot find a way to satisfy the courts?

If it becomes apparent to the Co-Op bank that the tax bill cannot /will not be paid then it is highly likely they will be forced to place the club into administration prior to the court hearing. If the Co-op do not do this then the club would most likely be wound up by the judge and cease to exist.

Administration will result in an automatic 10 point penalty, placing the team second bottom of League One. A CVA (Company Voluntary Agreement) would then need to be agreed by the appointed administrators to bring the club back out of administration. This usually involves creditors being asked to accept substantially less money than they are actually owed. If this cannot be agreed then a further points deduction could happen, effectively relegating SWFC to the bottom tier of English football.

What can fans do?

At this point it is too late for fans to raise enough money to pay the tax bill prior to the court hearing, but fans can help to establish an opportunity to ensure the future of the club is more stable moving forward - with or without administration.

WTID (wtidgroup.co.uk) is a group that has been established with the intent to reform SWFC and establish the club as a supporter owned community club. Under WTID's plans SWFC would become a flag bearer for the future of English football. Business models similar to the proposed WTID model already work successfully in Germany where in most cases ticket prices are lower and clubs as a business are more successful and stable.

WTID have a sound business proposal that has already been presented to the Co-Op bank. The bank responded favourably to the proposal but it is imperative that supporters show they are interested in WTID's plans too. WTID will shortly need to push their proposal to all SWFC supporters if they are to move forward with their exciting vision for the club. Under WTID's plan supporters will have the opportunity to invest in their club like never before . WTID's proposal could well be the future for many English clubs and SWFC would be at the head of the pack with regards to the reforming of our national game, but it will be down to the vast SWFC fan base to help make it happen.

Remember, WTID's plans can move forward whether administration happens or not. Indeed it's very possible that administration could give WTID more of a chance of succeeding. However, they will need to move fast as a post administration SWFC could be a more attractive business proposal than it is now, and this could mean parties who do not have the clubs/fans best interests at heart being attracted to the situation.

To help WTID move forward quickly fans can do two things. Firstly you can align yourself with WTID by registering on their website and following their Twitter feed. This will allow WTID to raise awareness of their proposals to you first hand, as soon as it is necessary.

Secondly fans can make a donation to a 'fighting fund' to allow WTID to meet the costs of finalising their proposal and creating wider awareness of their plans. This can be done by visiting the 'appeal' page on their website. This appeal has been implemented in accordance with the necessary authorities and in association with the current SWFC supporters trust Wednesdayite. Any unused funds will be donated to The Childrens Hospital. Any donation is welcome both financially and also symbolically in that every new name serves to highten the visibility of the strength of the fan base.

We urge all SWFC fans to visit the following pages to learn more about WTID and their plans and to offer their support.

WTID homepage

WTID appeal page
http://twitter.com/wtidgroup

An Oppotunity to Sponsor a Club at the Heart of a Community.

Sport, Art and Music, three areas that provide inspiration and opportunity for all young people.  Their importance in some locations are greater than others, because of the impact they have on the lives of young people.  Youth + Location = Guaranteed Crime - rubbish crime is a choice, down to the individual. Lack of Opportunity + Lack of investment in developing talent,  does equate to the increased possibility of the only option being crime.

We read in our papers today, that the government will be one of the first to gauge the happiness of the nation through an index.  I would imagine, that one of the factors taking into account will be the feeling of safety.  Investment in the above will increase the opportunities of Young people.  Please remember that only a very small minority of Young people are connected with crime or real anti social behaviour, but if we are looking for happiness it can be found.  When we look at a piece of Art, an evening at the theatre or cinema, a new and exciting singer or band, a winning sport star or team, that brings us happiness.  The investment in youth will reap benefits to our nation or region in so many ways and boost the happiness index - so why cut funding in these areas.

Redbridge Elite have had their funding stopped by the local council.  Below is posted the request for sponsorship that will be distributed, at the end you will see the sponsorship range, but you can do better than that.  If you run a business or you think your company would be interested in sponsorship, contact us at info@sporttrades.co.uk.  Redbridge Elite funding has now stopped, so financial support is urgent.

REDBRIDGE ELITE FC

Club & Players Past History


The Redbridge Elite football club was founded by a youth worker (Damien Williams) from the Redbridge Council. The team of players formed together from a five a side football project. This was aimed at providing a space for young people to enjoy football in an area that was away from damaging people in the community’s property.

Redbridge Elite entered the Ilford and district league in the seasons 2008/09 which was our first season as a team; we are now going into season 2010/11. Throughout are stay in this league we have managed to achieve something every season. First season we finished runners up in the league where we lost out by one point. Also came runner up to the in the Fenton cup which is similar set up to the FA cup.

Second season we won the Division one cup and got to the semi-final of the Essex cup.

Third season, we came runners up in the Premier division but we won all the cup competitions in our league.

Sponsorship cover

Redbridge Elite has always been sponsored by Youth Opportunity Fund (YOF). This is a funding source that is young people lead and supported by the London borough of Redbridge. Since the change in government money has been pulled form schools children’s and Families sectors in each borough and our funders have now been scrapped in a result of this. We are not looking for money to help us gain a profit through the team. We are simply trying to make football cheaper for young people that can’t afford this hobby.

Things we would need money for is pitch hire, foot ball equipment, and entry into external cup competitions. Our sponsor will be printed on the front of all our jerseys and managers jackets. Our league is covered by the Ilford and Newham Recorder. Through this we often have pictures of our team and weekly match results in the news paper.

The total amount Redbridge Elite is looking for is £1000 - £2000 per season. If this is possible we would be most thankful and guarantee that you are supporting a side with high status in the league and great potential to go further in football.

The Sting: A Mixed Weekend for the Hull Wasps.

Hull Wasps have had a mixed weekend, with their good league form continuing but disappointment in the shield. Thanks to Dave and the guys at Wasps fro providing the weekend reports.

HULL Wasps narrowly lost out in the third round of the National Shield after a close 83-78 defeat at home to Division 3 high-flyers Sefton Stars.


Hull pushed their Division Three opponents all the way before luck deserted them as they attempted to take the game into overtime with just 18 seconds left.

Both 6ft 8in centre John Brignell, who scored 24 points, and guard Andy Marr had good shots to tie the game with the score at 80-78 to the visitors.

But both saw their close-range efforts drop agonisingly off-target. First Marr impressively split the Sefton defence before lofting a layup towards the rim, only to watch it roll out. Brignell collected the rebound but could not convert his shot off the backboard under pressure.

Defeat was less than Hull deserved after their best defensive performance of the season. It was epitomised by point guard John Kelsey, who kept the Sefton guards under constant pressure and both led and finished the Wasps fast-breaks at the other end of the court to hit 13 points.

The Wasps could only kit-up eight players after injuries to experienced forwards Miles Anderson and Jimmy Coulson and the absence of forward Rob Birchmore and guards Ash Rice and Chris Cummings.

But starting the game as the underdogs only seemed to spur on the hosts as they bullied Sefton at both ends, leading 20-15 after the first quarter.

A see-saw game saw both sides have impressive runs, with Sefton heading into the fourth quarter up by two, a lead they stretched to seven points in the final stages.

And Hull’s tough task was further compounded when captain Jamie Goodwin, who scored 12 points, fouled out and centre James Rayner was forced out of the game with injury.

But Hull refused to collapse and again took the score to within two with just 18 seconds remaining, before Kelsey also picked up his fifth and final foul.

It was then that Hull’s luck deserted them before Sefton put the game to bed with a three-point play.

Goodwin said: “We may be out of the Shield, but this matched showed that we are more than capable of competing with Division Three sides and if we play like that against the best teams in our own league, Division Three is exactly where we will be next season.”

Hull beat Newcastle Eagles II 88-58 in Division Four the previous day to stretch their record in league competition to six out of six. Brignell scored 19 points, guard Ade Blatherwick hit 18 and Rayner added 11.

The second-placed Wasps must now prepare for their toughest league game so far against fourth-placed Burnley, who are 5-1 in the league.

The game tips off at 7.30pm on Saturday at the Bonus Arena in Walton Street, west Hull. Entry is £4 for adults and £3 for juniors.

Sol y Futbol: Rojillos Second defeat but Lanzarote hang onto top spot

Ian Lane reports from Gran Canaria as UD Lanzarote suffer only their 2nd loss of the season.

U.D.GUÍA 1 LANZAROTE 0


The Rojillos suffer their second defeat of the Season whilst closest rivals Las Palmas B close in on Lanzarote´s lead at the top to a single point and also have a game in hand.

The opening quarter of an hour the Gran Canarian side totally dominated possession but offered little threat in the Rojillo danger area.

It wasn’t until the 19th minute that Lanzarote had their first sight of goal. A quickly taken free kick set Toñito on his way and in the space of seconds he had two strikes at the target. His first was saved from inside the area and his second effort headed towards space.

Four minutes later and Ayoze over hit a pass in the area to striker Rosmen who looked destined for a tap in. The home bench celebrated Lanzarote´s mishap as though they had scored themselves.

Lanzarote now looked threatening but good chances for Ayoze and another two from Toñito went beckoning then in the 42nd minute the Rojillos received their punishment for not being more clinical in front of goal. A quick counter attack led by striker Raul who released team mate Flaco and the midfielder stroked the ball home to give his side a 1-0 lead to take into the break.

After a whirlwind first half it came as a bit of a surprise that the momentum had dropped and it wasn’t until the 62nd minute before the home side missed out on a half chance.

In the 76th minute Lanzarote were on an even more uphill battle following the sending off of Ayoze after picking up his second yellow card.

Late on a fantastic opportunity to steal a point fell to the feet of striker Rosmen. The keeper spilled the ball and from a couple of yards out the tall striker blasted over when hitting the back of the net seemed the easier option.

Lanzarote pressured for the final five minutes but couldn’t find any clear opening and left the island of Gran Canaria pointless.

Next Sunday Lanzarote will have their first of two consecutive home matches against 7th placed side Villa Santa Brígida.

GOALS

1-0 min 42 Flaco

Fix n Mix: A Busy weekend for our March to the Arch Clubs,

Hello welcome to Fix 'n' Mix, in it's new allocated slot.  Remember if you have any fixtures or events coming up and you want them included in this feature, contact us with details by 6pm on a Wednesday and we will include them - info@sporttrades.co.uk.  Fix 'n' Mix is the section of the blog that informss you were our adopted 'clubs' are playing over the coming weekend.

This weekend and next week, is dominated by our feature March to the Arch.  The F.A.Vase continues with our very own St Blazey playing host to Hengrove Athletic in the 2nd Round.  The F.A.Women's Cup has ties being played, with Weymouth Ladies travelling to Stoke Lane Athletic on Sunday. Next Tuesday it is F.A.Cup replay time.  Woking welcome Brighton & Hove Albion, with a home game against FC United of Manchester waiting the victor.

Our European football partners are also in action this weekend.  Ian Lane has a weekend in Gran Canaria as UD Lanzarote visit UD Guia.

Kult & Punk can lean out the window, have a drag on a woodbine and listen for the cheers as FC St Pauli entertain Bayer Leverkusen.  The boys will again rely on someone losing a match report in Zoe's Bar, as another interesting guest ale coming to the house this weekend.  St Pauli will be looking to end the run of 3 defeats..

Geordie Hockey Sticks, the boys from Jesmond Parish Churches head down to Stockton on Saturday, for a league game.

Chelmsford Chieftains have another Ice Hockey double header.  Pete Lewis will be a busy boy.  On Saturday Chieftains host Invicta Dynamo at Chelmsford Ice Rink, face off 17.40.  On Sunday the guys travel to Bracknall Hornets, face off 1630.

In Basketball our very own Hull Wasps have an early start.  Tip off 12.30 on Saturday at the Westgate Centre, Newcastle, the Wasps travel to the Eagles for a league game.

After success in the cup, Harpenden Rugby return to the league.  They travel to Osterley in Middlesex, to take on the Grasshoppers.

Please remember to check with the club to confirm start time, date and venue.

Next week, we will be compiling the Norwich 2012. 20 fixtures/events covering 12 sports in 1 area, so if you want a mention contact us asap.  The feature will be posted 18th November.

Sol y Futbol: Lanzarote hold onto Victory and stay top

Ian Lane reports from Arrecife as Lanzarote get back to winning ways.

LANZAROTE 1 PLAYAS JANDIA 0


U.D. Lanzarote extend their lead at the top to four points following a home victory and with their nearest rivals Las Palmas B slipping up with an away defeat.

The Fuerteventura side made their intentions clear from the start that they did not want to risk conceding so packed their defence and just hoped to hit their opponents on the break.


Rojillos winger Toñito was to prove the difference between the two sides. Every time the local lad received the ball he attacked the defence at pace causing chaos and was a constant threat throughout the match.

In the 21st minute Toñito laid on a pass to Ayoze and his first time strike from 20 yards looked destined for the right hand corner but a Jandia defender just managed to get a nick on the ball and guide it to safety.

Centre back Eliot flicked on a corner in the 35th minute which struck a defender on the line but the ball somehow ended up in the keeper’s arms. Lanzarote held the majority of possession for the first half but neither side went into the break with an advantage.

Lanzarote came out for the second half in familiar fashion. As each minute past the Rojillos were edging closer and closer to that all important first goal.

Ten minutes into the second period and striker Yaco got around the back of the Jandia defence and rounded the keeper only to see his strike from a tight angle crash into the side netting. Five minutes on and good work from Toñito gave Yaco another chance for a strike at goal but his powerful effort lacked direction as the keeper made a comfortable save.

In the 73rd minute Toñito got his just reward for another super performance. He received the ball deep and ran at the defence before neatly side footing his shot past the Fuerteventura keeper into the right hand corner of the net.

In another mediocre match the 25 year old winger outshone all on the pitch with his pace, determination and accuracy.

After being in total control of this match from the first whistle the Rojillos almost let in Jandia only two minutes after going in front. Jandia´s best player Toño Hernández beat his left back and blasted in a strike from ten yards which had completely beaten the Lanzarote keeper Alejandro, but fortunately for the Rojillos the ball whistled past both post and bar.

In the closing stages Playas Jandia tried to amount pressure but Lanzarote defended comfortably and ran out 1-0 winners.

Lanzarote lead the table with Las Palmas B in second and Tenerife B a further two points behind in third though both sides have a game in hand. Lanzarote will travel to Gran Canaria next Sunday and face 12th placed side U.D. Guía.

Incredibly Lanzarote´s other side Marítima drew for the ninth time out of 11 games this season which leaves them a point off relegation.

The Sting: Double Win in Double Header for Wasps

Hull Wasps continue their fantastic start to the season, with a very good bonfire weekend.  The Bonus Arena was set alight by the basketball talent in Hull, the pride of the Humber.  This report came directly from Hull Wasps, thanks to Dave and the guys.

HULL Wasps reached the third round of the National Shield for the first time in their short history with a 83-59 victory against a youthful Durham Wildcats II.


Forward Miles Anderson led the hosts with 18 points as guards Ashley Rice and Mike Lekupe added 10 and 9 respectively.

The win came a day after Hull beat Tees Valley Mohawks II 88-72 to stay second in National League Division Four. Player-coach John Brignell hit 22 points, captain Jamie Goodwin added 16 and Matt Fawcett hit 14.

The Shield win sets up a tie against Division Three outfit Sefton Stars on Sunday in a second consecutive double-header weekend that includes a trip to Newcastle Eagles II on Saturday.

Sefton are sitting second in England Basketball’s third tier after a strong start to the season, but Brignell said his side are preparing for the game with victory in mind.

He said: “This competition can be a good barometer to test how we can compete against good sides in Division Three.

“If we are to take our chances of promotion seriously, these are the kind of teams we will be playing every week next season.

“I really think we can compete at that level with the group of players we have right now and I want us to go as far as we can in the Shield.”

March to the Arch Update: Thurrock F.C Youth Team Still in the F.A.Youth Cup.

In our March to the Arch feature you know we begin with a selected fixture and follow the winner of that tie through the subsequent rounds. We, along the way, create a Merit table.


Last season we concentrated solely on the F.A.Cup with Accrington Stanley being crowned Merit League Champions. They made four appearances in the tournament.

This year we have covered 5 competitions, we still have 3 teams from the original tie left in the feature. Weymouth Ladies, will make their 3rd appearance in the Women’s F.A.Cup when they travel to Stoke Lane Athletic in the 3rd Qualifying Round. St Blazey, this weekend, host Hengrove Athletic in the F.A.Vase 2nd Round, their 4th appearance. The most impressive is Thurrock F.C Youth team.

Thurrock u18’s will make their 6th appearance tonight, at Southampton, in the F.A.Youth Cup. A truly remarkable effort, in mixing away fixtures and home fixtures to get to this point.

They started their campaign at St Albans City in the Preliminary Round, with an exciting 4-3 win. Then came two home fixtures in the tournament with 3-0 win against Ilford and a 2-1 victory over Stansted. Their visit to Stotfold saw them come away 3-0 winners and into the 1st Round. Waiting for them was Leyton Orient, a 1-0 win set up tonight’s visit to Southampton in the 2nd Round.

All the best lads from all at SportTrades.

March to the Arch Update. Brighton and Woking meet again.

March to the Arch Continued this weekend in the F.A.Cup.  Woking travelled to League 1 high flyers Brighton.  The Match Report below kindly provided by our friends at Woking FC.

Brighton & Hove Albion 0  Woking 0

FA Cup 1st Round

6th November 2010

Woking wrote another chapter in their illustrious cup history with a disciplined and tenacious performance against the League One leaders at the Withdean Stadium. Roared on by their magnificent travelling support, the Cards fully deserved the draw and might even have pinched a result with a little more composure in front of goal.

Graham Baker got his tactics absolutely right for what, on paper, could not have been a more difficult draw. But with five across midfield, Elvis Hammond up front and a back four that hardly put a foot wrong all afternoon the hosts struggled to make an impression despite all their possession and territorial advantage. Jerome Federico, on loan from Wycombe, made a promising debut, largely playing out wide. His confidence on the ball and pace when in possession caused some problems for the Brighton defence, particularly in the first half. And it was good to see three ex- Academy players introduced towards the end of the second period when fresh legs were required. Ola Sogbanmu and debutants, Charlie Turnbull and Josh Watkins, all played their part in achieving a famous draw.

The game started quietly apart from the Woking support and on an excellent playing surface, slick with the afternoon rain. An early Brighton corner was cleared to Federico and the young debutant immediately showed his pace as he scorched his way through the hosts’ midfield. And it was Federico again who produced the first real effort on goal after ten minutes with a twenty-five yard effort that was well over the bar.

Woking’s first corner came two minutes later. Federico again was quick down the right-hand flank, beating his man and seeing his dangerous cross deflected away. A minute later and Moses Ademola was creating problems down the opposite flank but a pass inside to Elvis Hammond might have been the better option, as his shot from distance was wide of the far post. And as Woking continued to create pressure an Aswad Thomas clearance almost picked out Hammond but Brezovan was quickly out of his area to clear from the advancing Woking front man.

Brighton now began to create a few of their own chances. A cross from the left saw Murray head over. Sparrow’s dangerous ball inside to Murray required a quick intervention from Joe McNerney before Bridcutt’s powerful long-range effort was deflected over the bar for a Brighton corner.

On 29 minutes Woking had their best chance of the half. Ademola’s pace took him clear of the Brighton midfield and, with the unmarked Hammond screaming for the ball, the wide man chose to go alone. His final touch was poor and Brezovan was able to clear the danger.

Brighton finished the half in the ascendancy. Dicker’s close-range effort after a cross from the right was just past the post. Adam Doyle was called on to make a saving tackle after Barnes was through and the Seagulls' forward had a second chance two minutes later, turning to volley wide when he might have expected to do better.

Woking had more than held their own in an even first half as they made for the dressing rooms with the game goalless.

Half-time: Brighton & Hove Albion 0 Woking 0

As might have been expected, the second period saw the hosts laying siege to the Woking goal for long periods. But thanks to the Cards’ organised and stubborn defending the League One side rarely looked like breaking the deadlock for all their passing football and possession.

Two minutes after the re-start Murray had a chance, heading over from six yards, and five minutes later he again headed over after getting onto the end of Bridcutt’s cross.

On 64 minutes Brighton were very close to grabbing the lead. With Woking struggling to clear their box and the ball rebounding off legs, substitute Hart stabbed a close-range effort inches wide of the post.

Although under the cosh, the Cards still looked to catch their hosts on the break and after good work from Sogbanmu and Ademola, Thomas crashed his shot wide of the left-hand post.

Immediately Brighton had a further good chance. This time Calderon was through on goal but his shot was straight at Little, who parried the ball away. With 75 minutes gone it was the turn of 'man of the match' McNerney (pictured) to relieve the defence and race the length of the field only for his final shot to be deflected away for a corner.

With the Seagull fans becoming increasingly restless at their side’s inability to capitalise on all their possession, Battipiedi had an opportunity on the left-hand side but his fierce shot was defected away for another corner.

Woking were hanging on but stuck magnificently to their game plan, tackling bravely and defending as a solid unit. Brighton continued to struggle to find a way through and, despite the four minutes of added time, the Cards held on for a well-deserved draw. The Woking fans, who had sung their hearts out for the full ninety minutes, greeted the final whistle rapturously. What a wonderful way to end an emotional week – a week in which we had said farewell to a Woking legend and then produced a performance that so reflected the cup exploits that the name Colin Lippiatt had been synonymous with in the past. It would be even more emotional if this Cards side could finish the job back at Kingfield.

Woking: Andy Little, Ricky Anane, Aswad Thomas, Mark Ricketts, Joe McNerney, Adam Doyle, Moses Ademola, Jerome Maledon, Elvis Hammond (Ola Sogbanmu 63), Francis Quarm (Charlie Turnbull 66), Jerome Federico (Josh Watkins 71)

Unused subs: Craig Faulconbridge, Alan Inns, Dave Gilroy, Matt Pegler

Brighton: Brezovan, Elphick, Barnes, Sparrow, Baz (Hart 60), Calderon, Murray (Battipiedi 53), Dicker, Painter (Smith 73), Bridcutt, Dunk

Unused subs: El-Abd, Bennett, Poke, Taricco

MOTM: Joe McNerney

Attendance: 5868

The winner of the replay will host FC United of Manchester.