Match Reports 6th December 2008 Twyford Comets Rockets 4 - Pinewood Polecats 2 The Polecats bubble was well and truly burst against an energetic Twyford team, on a crisp winter morning. Things looked rosy for the ‘Cats, as they bombarded the opponents goal, only for the hosts to nearly claim the lead, relying on Ryan Scott to pull off a fine save. It came as no surprise that the Polecats finally took the lead, scoring through a fine move down the right, which ended up with Alfie scoring a tap-in from close range. Jamie, Lewis and Ryan P were in total control at the back, whilst the forward line were keeping the opposing keeper’s hands warm with their shots. Confidence was high, leading 1-0 a the break, and that was soon increased, as Matty scored from close range, in the 1st minute of the 2nd half. That’s where the good news ended, as the hosts came back strongly, scoring 4 times on the break, as the ‘Cats struggled to regain their composure. There was still time for Ryan Scott to save another certain goal, and rightly earn himself the MotM award. This was a tough result to take for the ‘Cats, especially as they registered over 20 shots on target, but with only 2 goals to show for it. This doesn’t make the boys a bad team, but just a good team, on an off day. The return fixture is next Saturday... Team: Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Alfie Lovejoy, Matthew Harris MOTM: Ryan Scott 29th November 2008 Pinewood Polecats 2 - Sandhurst Town Storm 1 Taking a break from League duties, the Polecats played a friendly against a Sandhurst Town team who were sure to be a good test for the boys. The match was played over 3 periods, and an experimental line-up kicked off for the ‘Cats. Matty, Lee and Grant formed a new look defence, and showed that their pace was going to be useful. However, Jamie didn’t have a shot to save during his ’shift’ in goal, as the boys were working well to together. After sustained pressure, the boys took the lead through another goal from Alfie. A slightly different line-up took to the field for the 2nd period, but the visitors were the stronger team now, and scored a deserved equaliser, which Ryan Scott could do nothing about in goal. Lee was now upfront, and forming a great partnership with Tim and Jamie, now on the wings. Tim came close the scoring his first Polecats goal on several occasions, and Lee had several great chances to add to his tally. The final period started with a more familiar look to the line-up, with Lewis back in central defence, and Tom out on the left. Matty notched another goal after 5 minutes, with Ryan Proctor the star player in goal, keeping  the boys in the game with several fine saves. A useful experiment for the coaching staff, and another victory for the boys, to take them into two consecutive matches against Twyford Comets. Team: Tom Baggott, Grant Hainge, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Alfie Lovejoy(1), Matty Harris (1) MOTM: Lee Sampeys 22nd November 2008 Bracknell Cavaliers Saints 0 - Pinewood Polecats 1 The Polecats needed to bounce back from last week’s league defeat, but were facing a Bracknell team who themselves, had only lost once this season. Playing with the slope, the Polecats dominated from the start, but seemed unable to produce any meaningful efforts on goal. In fact, the first shot on target was from the penalty spot, after a hand ball. However, the goalie saved comfortably. Bracknell could hardly get out of their half, but when they did, Ryan P was assured in goal. Despite shots from Matty, Alfie, Ryan S and Lee, the Saints goal stayed intact before the break. The backline of Grant, Jamie and Lewis were hardly worried. By halftime, Tim and had replaced Grant, and the regular defence took shape. Now playing up hill, the Cats did not take their foot off the gas, and were rewarded when a counter-attack found Matty, who played in Alfie for what turned out to be the winner. The Polecats still had to work hard, and found the gods smiling on them, when the home side missed an open goal, with just minutes to go. The most resilient performance of the season from the Polecats, who showed maturity and passion in abundance. This was typified by Jamie, who was awarded the MotM trophy for his best defensive performance this season. Team: Grant Hainge, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Alfie Lovejoy MOTM: Jamie Wilkinson 8th November 2008 Ascot United Jaguars 4- Pinewood Predators 5 By Austin Backhouse This game was very tight with good passing, tackling and movement. The weather was VERY rainy. Pinewood got the first goal when Ewan blasted it in. Ascot then nabbed one back to make it 1-1. Brad scored the second goal before Josh scored a cracker to extend the Predators lead. Ascot kept on attacking but the Predators held together. Austin then hit the post after Luke crossed it in. At half time the Predators were 3-1 up. The 2nd half started off with Luke scoring but Ascot got 2 goals to make it 4-3. Luke then got his 2nd before Ascot scored a late 4th goal. Luke then got MOTM for his 2 good goals Ascot United Leopards 1 - Pinewood Polecats 4 The Polecats Express rolled into Ascot this morning, and rolled out again with all 3 points. The Polecats seemed nervous at the start, and conceded early, as the Leopards broke through the ranks of defence. Ryan Scott was a virtual spectator for most of the match, but his 1st touch was collecting the ball from the back of the net. The forward line of Jay, Matty and Tom seemed unable to get hold of the ball, which meant that Ryan Proctor, Lewis and Grant were kept busy at the back. However, despite the early setback, it still took the boys only 4 minutes to find their playing style, as Matty finished from close range. Pressure from both sides could have produced a goal either way, but it was the ‘Cats who led at half-time, as Alfie finished off another fine passing move, just before the break. With the backline now consisting of Lee, Lewis and Grant, the Polecats were more confident moving forward, and Lee scored the from close range, after making a great run from the back. The Polecats still had to defend, but were mostly comfortable, with Ryan a safe pair of hands at the back. Alfie scored his 2nd with 6 minutes to go, after another great break. Jay replaced Grant towards the end, who enjoyed a warm round of applause for his MotM performance. Another Polecats victory was enthusiastically received by their supporters, as the march goes on. Team: Tom Baggott, Grant Hainge, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Alfie Lovejoy (2), Matty Harris (1), Lee Sampeys(1) MOTM: Grant Hainge 1st November 2008 Pinewood Predators 1 - Pinewood Polecats 1 AET ( Predators 2-0 won 2-0 on penalties) Two teams from the same club playing each other in a cup competition is never comfortable, but both teams attacked from the off, with the Predators enjoying the early exchanges. The ‘Cats were finding it hard to settle, and it was no surprise when the ‘home’ side took an early lead. However, the Polecats are nothing if not fighters, and battled hard to get a foothold. The 2nd half was even more open than the 1st, and the final 10 minutes of Polecats pressure found a deserved equaliser as Matty Harris lashed home. Extra time found both teams unable to break through, so the lottery of penalty kicks saw the Predators go through. The Polecats should be rightly proud of their endeavours this season, and this week’s efforts showed just what a formidable force they are becoming. The whole team were MotM this week, as it was impossible to highlight any single performance, over any other. Team: Tom Baggott, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Matty Harris (1) MOTM: ALL 25th October 2008 California Rockets 2 Pinewood Polecats 5 The Polecats recorded their seventh straight win, against a California team who fought bravely ‘til the end. The ‘Cats were dominant from the off, pressuring the home defence with some slick passing, and it was no surprise when Alfie finished off a sweet move after 6 minutes. Matty doubled the advantage 5 minutes later, firing in from long range. The visitors looked totally in charge, and doing everything but scoring, with Ryan in goal, a spectator, and Lee, Lewis and Tim commanding at the back. However, the team sat off the Rockets first attack, and Ryan was beaten, to set an uneven slant to the score. However, normal service was resumed on 19 minutes, as Alfie rattled in #12 and #13 of the season, within a minute! A 4-1 score line at half-time was no less than the boys deserved, as all continued to impress, especially battling Tom. The 2nd half was a much more open affair, as the ‘Cats looked for the killer goals, the home side came back into it, causing frequent panic at the back. However, Jamie found himself in acres of space, and lashed home an unstoppable shot from the edge of the box. The boys seem to take their foot of the pedal, as the Rockets swept forward, and were rewarded with a goal, which just crept past Ryan P. Only the single goal in the 2nd half, but the team continue to show a spirit and resilience that is infectious to watch. Ryan Proctor was MotM today, this time for a valiant goalkeeping performance. Team: Tom Baggott, Grant Hainge, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Alfie Lovejoy (3), Matty Harris (1), Jamie Wilkinson (1) MOTM: Ryan Proctor 18th October 2008 Pinewood Pumas 8 - Sandhurst Town Trojans 1 The performances of the Pumas have been much improved over the last couple of weeks but they were still looking for that elusive first win. The Pumas burst right out of the blocks with Thomas T hitting a powerful shot just over the bar in the first 10 seconds. This set the scene for the day and a couple of attacking drives saw Liam and Matty shooting just wide. Because the Pumas started so well, it was a bit of a surprise when they went 1-0 down after a Trojans throw in went straight through the defence and they were presented with a simple tap-in. The boys didn't drop their heads and kept peppering the goals but the Trojans keeper was doing a good job keeping them at bay. The bit of luck the Pumas needed came when a shot from Harvey was deflected of a defender and lobbed over the keepers head. Matty then made the score 2-1 when he bent his shot through a crowded defence and found the bottom left hand corner. Thanks to the stoic defending of Thomas M, Matthew R and Jake, Thomas B didn't have much to do in goal but when called upon produced a magnificent save with his legs. Very timely it was as well as instead of the Trojans equalising, the Pumas found themselves 3-1 up when Liam ran onto a lovely cross field pass from Thomas T, and slotted a low shot into the corner of the goal. It was important that the Pumas kept the pressure on at the start of the second half and they got off to the perfect start when after a few minutes, Thomas T finished of a series of tight little passes by scoring the teams fourth. Matty soon made it 5-1 by driving home with his left foot from the edge of the box. The movement and hard running of the Pumas was causing the Trojans all sorts of problems and it was good to see the boys displaying what we all know they are capable of. That superior movement was evident when a well weighted corner from Liam found the head of Thomas T who had ghosted in around the back of the defence to nod the ball home just near the far post. Good to see the boys finally score from a corner and the fact that it was a header makes it doubly special. Harvey, who had worked his socks of all day, completed the rout by scoring the Pumas seventh and eighth goals and completing his hat-trick with his usual accomplished finishing. The performance today was like the Pumas of old as they were a lot more deliberate with their passing and worked hard for each other from defence through to attack. Well deserved man of the match went to Harvey, who aside from scoring a hat-trick, played well from the outset and worked tirelessly all day. Special mentions to Liam and Thomas T, who arguably played their best games for the season. Goals: Harvey (3), Matty (2), Thomas T (2), Liam (1)  Pinewood Panthers 3 - Charvil Eagles 1 "Top of the League&ldots;&ldots;with smiles on our faces"  It wasn't as polished a performance as in recent weeks but the boys all battled hard  to get into the match and then, with increasing confidence, ran out worthy winners of an excellent game of football that was a credit to both sides. So the East Berks league reads played 7 won 7 and, if the accolade existed, we would surely see Paul awarded the 'Manager of the Month' title. It was also fitting that Alex's last game as captain (before transferring to the Pumas for an undisclosed fee) was to lead the side to their unbeaten record. He will be very much missed on and off the field and we all wish him every success in getting the Pumas back to their usual winning ways. In the match the Panthers scored early through Henry's trusted left boot following some excellent interplay between James and Zac. In spite of the early lead the Panthers had to battle hard against a resilient and determined Charvil side with Jack and Harry having to make a number of important tackles and interceptions. And it was against the run of play that The Panthers scored their second goal  Henry making a strong run down the left, Callum and Zac both combined well to feed Henry's left boot which resulted in the inevitable goal. Midway through the half Charvil had a piece of luck when a speculative lob from their midfield came out of the sun and bounced over Ben's head to make the score 2:1. It was to Ben and the teams credit that this setback only stirred them on, and  for the rest of the half they came close to scoring a number of times with Callum and Alex both going close following great work by Matty and Theo out wide. Ben also made a couple a great saves to keep the lead at half time but Charvil were well in the game and there was not much between the two teams. The Panthers started the 2nd half strongly with whole team making their tackles and passes count to greater effect than the first half. With Jack and Harry providing a strong defensive foundation, and James, Matty , Alex and Henry  increasingly dominating the midfield,  the Panthers started to take control of the game. They scored again when Theo was fouled, took the free kick into the Charvil box which Matty was able get onto the end to make the score 3:1. There then followed a period of pressure from Charvil and The Panthers were forced to concede a number of corners. These  were well defended by Alex and Theo with Ben making a number of excellent saves to keep the Panthers lead. The game ended with The Panthers  in control and  dominating territorially. And if it hadn't been for the woodwork the score would have been greater with Henry , James and Alex all coming close to scoring. However this would probably have flattered the Panthers with the final score a fair reflection of a game which saw the team dig deep for control and a creditable victory. Well done to all the boys for another team win and for maintaining their deserved position at the top of the league.  Alex was awarded MOTM for not only this game but also for his outstanding contribution to the team through out the season, both as player and as Captain. Pinewood Predators 1 - Laurel Park Hurricanes 1 By Luke Andrews This turned out to be a very tight game. There was good passing and good shooting but we could have tackled better. We let a striker through on goal but Jason put in a good save to stop them scoring. We started playing better football when we spread the ball around the pitch, making more chances for us to score. Then Laurel Park scored to open the scoring, which took us to half time. In the second half we had a much better half than the first. Are defence was not that strong in the second half though due to letting the ball through too much. However, Conner our captain still managed to stop the danger clearing the ball many times. Once Connor cleared it up the pitch and Austin ran on and had a cracking shot at goal which hit the crossbar. The team had many more chances, before and after that shot, then josh managed to slot in the equaliser which took us to 1-1 rounding off the game and giving us a point. Man of the match went to Brad for his determined forward runs and lot's tackling in midfield. Pinewood Polecats 5 - Laurel Park Whirlwinds 4 The “Polecats Express” rolled into town this week, knowing that a win would maintain their top spot in the division. However, no-one told the Whirlwinds about this, who ignored the script where they were supposed to come into town and roll over. The match started in dramatic fashion, as the visitors took the lead from close range after 2 minutes, as the home defence stood amazed. This seemed to stir the ‘Cats, who promptly went down the other end and some great passing was rewarding by a Tom Baggott thunderbolt!! The team were now back on an even keel, and went ahead after 8 minutes through Lee’s tap-in, after great work from Matty. The train seemed back on track, as Matty finished Beckham-like, with a free-kick after 12 minutes. However, the signs of what was to come were there, as Grant, Ryan P and Jamie were constantly under pressure at the back. It was no surprise that the visitors came back, deserved scoring twice in quick succession. Three-all at the break, and barely time to draw breathe. Lewis was now re-instated at the centre of the defence, as a major re-shuffling took place. Alfie was now in midfield, and was battling hard for possession. Despite the team re-gaining it’s familiar shape, tragedy happened when a Whirlwinds long-range shot somehow squirmed across the line; 3-4 down, and still 15 minutes to play. The ‘Cats were finding it tough to claw their way back, and were forced to play with only two at the back, but when all looked lost, Matty popped up with 3 minutes remaining to score his 2nd of the match. The ‘Cats did not settle for a draw though, and only a combination of post, ‘keepers legs and luck keep the ball out. Deep into time added on though, a goal-bound shot from Matty was handled in the box. With baited breathe, Jamie stepped up and slid the ball under the keeper for the winner. There was only time to kick-off, before the final whistle sounded. A desperately harsh result on the visitors, who were the best team we had played all season, despite their lowly league position. Still, another resulted grounded out by the ‘Cats, who showed magnificent depth of character to win again. Jamie won the MotM award, not only for his cool penalty kick, but for another accomplished and mature performance. Team: Tom Baggott, Grant Hainge, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Tom Baggott (1), Lee  Sampeys (1), Matty Harris (2), Jamie Wilkinson (1) MOTM: Jamie Wilkinson 11th October 2008 AFC Henley  4 -  Pinewood Predators  1 MATCH REPORT by Ewan Beetham We were hoping to get a better result against Henley because the last time they beat us 5 - 0 at home! Henley were winning 2 - 0 at half time but early on in the second half Luke took a long range shot just inside the half way line. The sun was in the goal keeper's eyes so the ball slipped through his hands and Luke had scored - great goal to make it 2 - 1. But then Henley saw the mistake they had made and pushed on even harder to score 2 more goals. Final score 4 - 1. Man of the Match - Luke (for scoring a great goal) Squad - Connor, Jason, Ewan, Austin, Brad, Josh, Mark, Luke. Goal Scorer - Luke Pinewood Polecats 2 - Finchampstead Eagles 1 The Polecats knew they would face a stronger Eagles team than the one they beat 5-1, two weeks ago, and it was no surprise that this match was a tight affair, separated by a single goal. The ‘Cats started brightly, pressing hard, and were rewarded with a close range effort from Matty, after only 5 minutes. The visitors came into the match as the half wore on, as Lee, Tim and Lewis were called on to protect the goal. Ryan Proctor and Tom were introduce, mid-way through the half, and matched the work rate. Ryan Scott in goal, was rarely troubled, until the Eagles broke through to equalise after 20 minutes. Up until then, the home side had been in control, with some slick inter-passing between Matty, Jamie and Alfie, and Tim playing a blinder at left back. There was a sense of relief at the half-time whistle, as the Polecats re-grouped. The 2nd half was a more open affair, with some sharp counter-attacking play from the ‘Cats, and it was one such attack that the 2nd goal, and winner came from. Jamie held up the ball well before playing in Matty, who crossed for Tom to score his first League goal for Pinewood, lobbing the ‘keeper from the edge of the box. Delirious scenes on the sidelines, as parents, supporters and coach celebrated a rare but precious goal. This seemed to galvanise the visitors into action, as both teams now looked for the equaliser/ killer goal. Ryan Scott managed to pull-off several fine finger-tip saves to keep the boys in it, on the rare occasions that the defensive line was breached. A succession of corners were effectively dealt with by the ‘Cats defence. The final whistle seemed an age to come, but was warmly welcomed. Ryan Proctor won the MotM award for a committed, but controlled performance at the back. An immensely mature performance today, with the whole team working extremely well together as a unit.  Team: Tom Baggott, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Alfie Lovejoy (1) Tom Baggott (1) MOTM: Ryan Proctor 4th October 2008 Pinewood Predators 3 - Camberley Town 3 By Mark Wilson It was a really good match, the passing was brilliant and it was my second game. The first goal was scored by Brad, if you are reading this Brad, well done! Then Luke scored the next one, his first goal for the Predators, well done to him. The half time whistle blew, I thought it was a brilliant first half and I was looking forward to the second half. Soon after the start of the second half we scored again – Luke calmly collected the ball after slick passing, ran and took a shot. Then after some hard work by Camberley, who didn’t want to see their 100% record going took a chance and scored. Kicking off, we again played well with a couple of shots being well saved. Then their second goal came which was unfortunate, time was going down which was helping us, but Ewan got a knock after really great tackling, and had to come off, this meant we had to change round a bit and it helped them just nick a last goal, to make it 3-3, we lifted ourselves and had a couple more chances but no more goals were scored. We were told it was a fantastic game to watch, and we played like a team, even though we have only been together for a few weeks. Team:  Jason, Conor, Ewan, Brad, Austin, Mark, Luke, Liam  Man of Match, Jason – Brilliant saves.  Pinewood Polecats 3 - Camberley Town Rebels 2 An early start didn’t deter both teams from attacking from the off, although neither team took any real control. With Lee away, Jay slotted into the backline alongside Lewis and Tim, and it was a succession of corner kicks from Tim that brought the first real chances for the Polecats. However, after 15 minutes, after some decisive passing around the box, Alfie popped up to slot home his 5th goal in two matches. The visitors showed how they had risen to 3rd in the table, with some forceful attacking play, and the ‘Cats used up a couple of lives with some hesitant defending. Tom and Ryan S were battling hard in midfield, trying to feed Alfie for a further goal. Ryan P was busy in goal, pulling off several useful saves to keep the team in front at the break. Within minutes of the restart, the ‘Cats had doubled their lead, with a fortunate deflection of the goalkeeper, falling nicely for Alfie to tap home. Matty was now on, and causing problems with his pace, whilst Grant was solid at the back. The visitors came back into the match with a well taken goal, whilst the Polecats missed a penalty at the other end. The match was getting more open now, and it was no surprise that the home side scored a 3rd goal, when Alfie completed his 2nd successive hat-trick after a great run with 5 minutes to go. Within 2 minutes the game had swung the other way, as the Rebels brought a goal back. The ‘Cats (and coach and parents) survived the final few nervous minutes to celebrate another hard-fought win. Alfie won the MotM award, not only for his goals, but for his overall battling performance. Team: Tom Baggott, Grant Hainge, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Alfie Lovejoy (3) MOTM: Alfie Lovejoy 27th September 2008 Pinewood Predators 0 - AFC Henley 5 By Joshua Smith Unfortunately we lost 5-0 in our last match. Henley scored two goals in the first half and three goals in the second half. I got "Man of the Match" for running up and down the wings. I played better than last week. We all played really well as a team and the score did not reflect our performance, considering we were playing the top team in our league. Conor played well as defending was challenging this week. Luke hung in solidly in the midfield. Up the Predators! Team: Luke, Conor, Josh, Ewen, Austin, Brad, Liam Finchampstead Eagles 1 - Pinewood Polecats 5 With the Polecats confidence sky high after recent results, it was no wonder that they took the game to Finchampstead in the early stages. After several threatening attacks, Lee scored his first of the season, following after good work from Jamie and Matty. The home weren’t taking this laying down, but couldn’t break through the Lee/ Jeffery/ Robertson wall at the back. Grant came close to doubling the lead, but the ‘Cats couldn’t break through, even after the introduction of Alfie and Tom. The Eagles were always close to pulling a goal back, but Ryan was barely troubled in goal, but all the same, the half-time whistle was a welcome relief for the coach!! Playing up the slope in the 2nd half, the ‘Cats became more dominant, with Matty and Alfie working well together, with Tom putting an increased work-rate. It was no surprise when Pinewood extended their lead, with Alfie poking home. He repeated the act 2 minutes later, effectively ending the contest. The home side continued to push forward, and pulled a goal back with a well taken strike. However, Alfie had the last word, completing his hat-trick after 46 minutes, and notching a 4th, a minute later. A relieved Polecats left the field at the final whistle, knowing they had been pushed hard for the win, but also proud that they came through that test with flying colours. Tom won the MotM award for a fine combative performance in midfield, showing that he certainly has the skills to go with his effort. Team: Tom Baggott, Grant Hainge, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Alfie Lovejoy(4), Lee Sampeys MOTM: Tom Baggott 20th September 2008 Pinewood Panthers 1- Hawley Raiders 0 The starting line up looked strong with Ben in goal, Theo and Jack at the back and James, Zack and Henry across the midfield and Callum as a striker. The Game kicked off and pinewood looked to be dominating the game until Hawley attacked but confident defence stopping the attack. Pinewood tightened up the defending. Zack doing his part well half way through the first half as he is looking strong on the ball and not letting anyone past. A mistake is made in the midfield the ball flies loose Hawley pick the ball up and burst towards the pinewood goal. One of the Hawley attacks pull off a shot on goal and Ben pulls off an amazing save. The ball goes out for a corner kick. Pinewood look threatened as a hefty kick from the Hawley centre back looks to threaten the defence but the ball is brought down and passed into space by pinewood. Some good quick one, two passing from James and Henry looked promising for a much longed for pinewood goal but the ball is put fractionally wide. Pinewoods still looking in control of the game as Hawley are having no time on the ball. A Hawley corner flies dangerously into the pinewood box Ben meets with a fantastic save, the ball trickles out of the box and a shot rattles the cross bar from a Hawley player. A shot is taken by Henry and it skims the bar. The pinewood parents looking very excited. SUBS-Theo off and Harry on, Zack off and Matty on, Alex on for James HALF TIME Hawley have kick off, Hawley looking more determined than before but Alex breaks and has a go from outside the area and the ball is tipped right over the bar. Ben meets another good shot from the Hawley midfield. It looks like nothing is going past Ben today. Half way through the half there's a scramble in the pinewood area but eventually the ball is cleared. A break from the clearance of the early scramble by Matty down the right hand side, he shoots across the keeper and a beautiful goal. SUBS-Theo on for jack, Zak on for Henry and James on for Callum. An attack from Hawley is met by a menacing tackle from Theo but they come back for more pulling off three good shots but all stopped by Ben. Pinewood looking strong throughout the last minutes of the game. The game finishes 1-0 with pinewood taking home three well earnt points. Match Reporter-REUBEN HONEY Hawley Raiders 1 - Pinewood Predators 3  By Brad Ilsley It was the second game of the season. We were all looking for a win after last week we got beat in the last seconds. It was Jason's first game in goal. In the first half, we were playing up hill so it was quite hard. Ewan was injured but he bravely battled through the pain. We had most of the possession. Then half way through the Predators had a corner but Hawley headed the ball clear, as it was rolling back to Conor he wacked full pelt over the goalies head straight into the back of the net, 1 - 0 to the predators. Then just before half time pinewood had another corner that was cleared to Conor and repeated another half way shot to make it  2 - 0 to the predators. Then half time blew. Then second half they had improved, Hawley came out looking for a goal so they did at the start of the second half. They had a great shot but it was too strong for Jason to keep it out of the back of the net, 2 - 1 to the predators. The predators were under a lot of pressure with Hawley looking for an equaliser. Following some good play, the ball broke to Liam on the left hand side, passing to Josh, as Josh passed back and Liam booted it into the bottom left corner, as it was hard to save it, 3 - 1. Then we were tired a Hawley player was fouled in the box. It was a penalty but the Hawley player kicked it wide. The final whistle blew and it was 3 - 1 to the predators. The first win of the season. Well done Predators. Team:  Jason, Conor, Brad, Josh, Austin, Ewan, Liam, Luke. Man of the match: Conor Hawley Raiders Falcons 1 - Pinewood Polecats 11 The Polecats registered their biggest ever win, on a day when Grant made his Polecats debut. The Polecats pushed straight from the kick-off, but no-one could have expected Alfie to score with 20 seconds!! He quickly added a second after great work from Jamie. It was all Pinewood, as the yellow shirts swarmed forward in search of more goals. Lee, Tim and Lewis were again, solid at the back, as Alfie, Tom and Jamie kept the pressure on, up front. Alfie was on fire, narrowly missing the target on a couple of occasions, but with the introduction of Matty after 15 minutes, the game turned into the ‘Harris’ show!! Matty quickly scored a hat-trick before half time. The third, directly from a down field clearance from Ryan in goal, who took 22 minutes to have his first touch of the ball!! After the break, the ‘Cats continued their high workrate, with Matty adding his 4th. The Home side didn’t give up, and were rewarded for their endeavour with a well-taken finish. The Polecats were able to push break more frequently, as the game became more stretched. Debutant Grant narrowly missed connecting onto a Matty cross, but made no mistake soon after, slotting home from 5 yards. He doubled his attack 2 minutes later, with a coolly taken goal. There was still time for Matty to score his 6th and 7th, taking his season tally to 9; just one short of his total last year!! Another great team effort, after which Tim was award MotM for his fine left-sided display. Team: Tom Baggott, Grant Hainge, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Matty(7), Alfie(2), Grant(2) MOTM: Tim Robertson 13th September 2008 Pinewood Panthers  3 - Whitegrove Cobras 1 There was an exiting feeling on the touchline as the Panthers gathered for their first home game of the season after the brilliant performance and victory of the previous week. The game started with the Panthers full of confidence with Henry getting in an early dangerous cross. However things soon tailed off as the Whitegrove team started to get more of the possession with the defense of Jack, Harry and keeper Ben seeing more of the ball than in the whole of the game last week. The Panthers were unable to keep control of the ball and inevitably went a goal down after 10 minutes with a well worked goal for Whitegrove. This seemed to spur the boys into action although Whitegrove continued to play the better football. The chances were more even with more good crosses coming from Henry and Matty. The Panthers drew level with james' first goal of the season finishing with a firm shot after the ball was not fully cleared from a corner. Almost as soon an the Panthers had equalised it was time for the three subs to come on with Theo making his first appearnace of the season. The changes didnot affect the growing confidence of the Panthers who finished the half as the stronger team. The second half was dominated by the Panthers who played more in the style of the previous week without ever hitting the same heights. Paul's half time team talk had the obvious effect with the Panthers getting back to playing the The Panthers moved the ball much better creating chances for the whole of the frontline. James was the main influence in the midfield and Callum began to protect and moving the ball on as he had done so in the previous week. The Panthers moved the ball nicely through the second half with Alex, Zak, Callum and James all involved. When Whitgrove did attack they either had long range efforts which were dealt with by Ben or came up against an increasingly comfortable looking Jack and Matt. The two second half goals came from Alex and a second for James. The Panthers winning start to the season continues in a game where we didnot play to our own high standard. Man of the Match:  James Pinewood Predators 1 - Whitegrove Pythons 2 By Conor Breslin Hello everyone It was the first game of the season with a very unlucky defeat of 2-1 but the main thing is that we played well and had fun. And let's remember about the new boys Ewan, Austin, Jason and Luke who all did really great. The pythons scored first which was unfortunate for us but after great pressure then  Ewan scored a fabulous equaliser. His first shot came back off the post but the second shot went in the back of the net. It looked like a draw but in last minute Whitegrove scored their second goal which was a brilliant shot from about the half way line. Good luck in the next game and I hope we will win. Team: Mark, Liam, Josh, Ewan, Austin, Jason, Luke, Brad and Conor Man-of-the Match: Ewan Pinewood Polecats 6 - Whitegrove Vipers 1 The Polecats started the League campaign in emphatic style, cruising to a well-earned victory against a hard-working Whitegrove side. A new kit and a new venue obviously fired the team, as Jamie stroked home the 1st goal inside 30 seconds. Just like London buses, the 2nd goal arrived quickly after, as Jamie doubled the lead 60 seconds later. By now, the Pinewood supporters were getting excited, but were sent into overdrive as Jamie completed his 1st ever hat-trick 2 minutes later. The slick passing from the Polecats was a joy to behold, as they swept forward in waves with Matty and Ryan P supporting Jay in his forward role. Lee was in his element, as he stormed up and down the right-hand side, confident that Lewis and Tim were rock-like at the back. Ryan S in goal was a virtual spectator, occasionally collecting the ball when the Vipers did break through. Tom and Alfie were introduced just before the break, and continued the great work, as both battled to keep the ball in the attacking half. The visitors were not giving up without a fight, and deservedly pulled a goal back, straight after the break. The Polecats wobbled for a couple of minutes, before the ‘Cats hit back again. Great work from the whole team was rewarded as Alfie lashed home from the end of the box, with his left foot. The end-to-end football was scintillating to watch as both teams kept up the tempo, but the Polecats were rarely worried. Matty opened his account after 38 minutes, and deservedly doubled his tally 4 minutes later. A flurry of late substitutions saw the clock run down to the final whistle, which was greeted by wild celebrations from the Polecats supporters. Choosing a MotM was always going to be tough, but Lewis thoroughly deserved the award for his sterling bulldog spirit and work rate. Team: Tom Baggott, Matthew Harris, Lewis Jeffery, Alfie Lovejoy, Ryan Proctor, Tim Robertson, Lee Sampeys, Ryan Scott, Jamie Wilkinson Goal scorers: Jamie(3), Matty(2), Alfie(1) MOTM: Lewis Jeffery 6th September 2009 Woodley Saints Lions 1 - Pinewood Pumas 1 With the transfer window all but closed it was time for the new look Pumas squad to focus on the season ahead. With a limited pre-season under their belts and opponents that had been victors in a couple of recent finals against the Pumas this was always going to be tough season opener. From the kick-off the Saints looked that little bit sharper at both tackling and passing and the Pumas had to work hard to stay in the game. Newly appointed team captain Matty did a great job at protecting the defensive duo of Jake and Matt R who in turn did some resolute defending in front of Thomas B. On occasion the wide players, Liam and Thomas T, worked the flanks but in reality Harvey wasn't getting much service up front and the majority of play was in the Pinewood half. The defence was eventually broken down when a loose ball from a corner fell on the boot of a Saints player and was duly dispatched into the roof of the net. The score remained at 1-0 up to the half time break which provided Adrian the opportunity to deliver a much needed team talk. A few tactical changes made all the difference and the second half started much better. Matt R was using his pace down the right flank and Harvey was providing a great 'out ball' down the left. Thomas M was an 'oak' in the centre of defence and Jake showed great pace and judgement as he swept up everything. Matty started to boss the middle of the park and made space to produce a long mazey run ending with a cross to the near post which gave Thomas T the opportunity to show a bit of class in front of goal with a calm finish past the defender and goalie. The heads were up now and so too the energy levels, Pinewood started to look more like a team and their movement both on and off the ball was much better, consequently the flow of the game was much improved and for the first 15 minutes of the second half  Pinewood were certainly on top. With 10 minutes to go both teams pressed for a winner and it was exciting end to end stuff. Thomas B took control of the goal mouth when required and produced a number of good saves and clearances. Neither team could produce any clear chances and it was certainly a day when the defenders were on top. All in all a good away point for the Pumas against some very strong opponents. Man of the Match - Matty Cameron, a true Captains performance. Goals - Thomas Tinsley, the fox in the box is back.