From Season 2009/2010

Man of The Match Awards

Each week a trophy is handed out to the player that achieves the Man of the Match award. To win this award a player must do something above and beyond their normal contribution and this can be based on effort, skill, goals or even their support of the team and their team mates in general. The award is held for one week then returned.

Marshfield Juniors 7 - Derry Hill 3 (Nick 3, Sam 2, Joe 1, Bradley 1)

Date: 12 Sep 09 - Man of Match: Akito

Having not beaten Derry Hill before, this game was going to be unpredictable. With first choice goal-keeper Harry side-lined by stitches it was going to be a challenge for Akito as stand in.

Marshfield started very well and worked the ball well down the right between Jake, Nick and Sam. When Derry attacked down their right wing Charlie and Leo battled magnificiently to reduce their threat, throwing everything they had into the game. It didn't take long for Marshfield to break through and after some neat work by Sam the ball broke free for Jo to shoot and as the keeper pushed the ball away there to smash home the rebound was Sam. The second goal came after another scramble and Joe was in the right place to knock the ball over the line for his first goal for Marshfield. Just when Marshfield were starting to look comfortable up stepped Derry with some fast attacks down their right wing to score two very quick goals in succession. Then, just before half time Sam was tripped in the penalty area and the referee had no choice other than to award another penalty. Nick stepped up and smashed the ball down the middle for 3-2. Bizzarly, five minutes later another penalty was awarded after a similar trip and on this occassion Nick was unlucky to put the ball wide of the post.

In the second half Marshfield kept their heads held high and started to take control. Nick was easily the most skillful player on the pitch and held the ball well creating space with some intelligent passes. James battled well alongside midfield and at one point was unlucky not to get a goal himself. Louis held the defence together like a true professional with solid leadership, making sure Charlie, Leo and Ben were in the right place at the right time to make several winning tackles. Ben in his first game showed he has settled into the group well. Akito had made some key saves in the first half but was much busier in the second as the game wore on and legs started to tire. However, despite this, Marshfield's attacking style of play ensured a further five goals were scored and there could have been many more. Jo hit the post and with another attempt shot wide. Sam and Jake both shot wide a couple of times either side of some fanstastic goals. Nick smashed home two very well taken penalties after the Derry defence failed to cope with the quick runs and turns of Sam and Jake respectively. Bradley scored a rocket shot from outside the area after a good first touch set-up a great position to beat the goal keeper at his far post and towards the end Sam broke through and with the defence in front of him defly lifted the ball over the goal keeper and below the cross-bar. Derry fought back well but the defence were simply too good and it was their performance that made this match end in a Marshfield victory.

Thanks to Bill for being ref, seemed to get all decisions right in what was a very fairly contested game.

From Season 2008/2009

Final Scorers Table (League & Cup)

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Update: Match Report From Wiltshire Times Website

FC Chippenham U10 1, Marshfield Juniors U10 0

12:46pm Thursday 2nd April 2009

"A perfect Sunday morning for football at Leafy Lane greeted FC Chippenham Youth and Marshfield Juniors with great anticipation for a very exciting game.

With no history between these 2 sides neither team was sure of how this game would unfold.

FC Chippenham made a nervous start and Marshfield showed very quickly that they were an attacking side not afraid to commit plenty of players forward.

Some early pressure was soaked up by the Youths and they looked to be settling into a rhythm when after 7 minutes disaster struck.

A high ball lobbed into the Chippenham box bounced and as the defender tried to get control it struck his hand – Penalty to Marshfield.

Chippenham hearts sank as the ball was placed for the spot kick. The sizeable crowd lining the sides held their breath as the striker confidently took his run up and smartly struck a well placed shot towards the bottom corner.

FC Chippenham keeper Tadgh Feerick was equally confident and dived to save it superbly with the rebound surprising the on looking players who were thrown into a fierce scramble to get the loose ball and with great determination defenders Matt Kirtley and Sam Fieldhouse cleared the danger.

Having survived the scare the Youths were sparked into action and suddenly it was all Chippenham. The pressure was now piled on Marshfield who were happy to concede corner after corner.

Marcus Fenton had a header just over the bar and Will Summers had a shot bravely stopped by the Marshfield keeper. Despite these chances amazingly the half finished all square.

In the second half Chippenham looked the more inventive side.

Alex Bowers came on for Will Summers and Toby Ferguson replaced Harry Vickers. Kieran Fitzwater was running the midfield for Chippenham, one minute making a tackle in defence the next making an attacking run.

8 minutes into the second half and a Chippenham attack down the left side was blocked.

The ball was laid back to Marcus Fenton just beyond the centre spot, he had space and took a touch before letting go a screaming shot which took a very slight deflection into the top corner for a superb goal, the deadlock was broken.

Marshfield were stunned and in the next 5 minutes Chippenham created chances where they could have had 2 more, the best of which fell to Alex Bowers but the finish went just over the cross bar.

With 5 minutes to go Marshfield were not going to give up easily and had some determined attacks on the Chippenham goal the best was a clear shot on goal from inside the box but was smartly dived on and held by Tadgh.

With 2 minutes to go Marshfield won a free kick just outside the area to give them one last chance – the shot was struck superbly and was possibly going just wide of the left post but was pushed out by the keepers hand for safety.

Again Marshfield committed forward for the corner which was cleared by Chippenham and the passing move forward set up Toby Ferguson for a one on one with the Marshfield keeper but the finish was just wide of the post and that was to be the last chance of the game.

The final whistle blew and Chippenham Youth celebrated being through to the final.

Editors Note:  No mention of Marshfield being underdogs then?

Chippenham Town 1 - Marshfield 0 (Mid Wilts League Cup Semi Final)

Man of Match: Sam

For Marshfield to have a chance against the team two leagues above them it was vital that every player was at their best and up for the challenge. We know we are a good enough team to beat anybody on our day and we came very close today, up against a Chippenham team with some big lads with strong technical ability.  We have never played a goal-keeper so big!

The first half showed Chippenham how good we can be and we pressed them into making lots of mistakes enabling us to get several shots in, a few corners and a few attacks that were stopped by last minute tackles.  After ten minutes the chance came when a handball in the box meant we had a penalty and up stepped Sam.  The low and hard shot was well saved by their keeper and the ball didn't bounce favourably for the follow-up.  We had them on the defence and when they did come forward Harry, Damien, Jake and Louis made sure they didn't get a decent shot in except on one occasion where Harry very bravely threw himself in front of the ball for a great save.  As half time came we were still in this.

As the second half progressed Chippenham stepped up a gear and found themselves winning more of the ball in midfield.  After ten minutes a shot from outside of the area was deflected into the top corner out of Harry's reach for 1-0.  How would we respond.  Jake pressed forward more in the second half and we started to get more of the ball. Damien had a great shot, Jake had a free kick that just missed the top corner and Nick had a few shots saved.  Ultimately, the game became a battle in midfield and with time running out we were prevented from getting the chances and so were they.

At the end all the boys were of course disappointed but they played one of the best teams in the area and gave them a great game and this experience will serve them well as a team for next year.  Special thank you to the substitutes Matt, Akito and Charlie for giving 100% even for five minutes and without their contribution this season we would not have reached the semi-final.  With so many right footed players playing in midfield it is difficult to get you all on the pitch and of course next season makes this easier with 11 aside.

The boys had a lot to be proud about and the coach was delighted with their effort and attitude in this match and the whole season.  Sam finished man of the match and led the team like a true captain.  Well done everyone, keep your heads up high.

Derry Hill 0 - Marshfield 0

Man of Match: Louis

This was a game where the players were playing in treacle. Nothing seemed to come off and the games best move created a great chance for Akito whose shot hit the cross-bar.  Sadly this was in the 30th minute and there wasn't a lot of action to report for the other 39 minutes.  Derry Hill battled very well and were the better team coming forward.  If it were not for Louis, Oscar and Matt playing so well at the back we would have struggled.  We lacked the ability to find a useful pass and the wind played havoc with every kick.  A game to forget on a cold and wet day.

Westbury Youth Tigers 0 - Marshfield 3

Scorers: Charlie, Jake (2)

Man of Match: Akito

A big game on a tiny pitch.  This was a game where someone could in theory score from the halfway line, although the coach tried before the game and missed by a mile.  Westbury started brightly and clearly had a centre forward capable of scoring goals.  Everytime Marshfield broke the ball didn't seem to roll for us and Westbury were quick to tackle and clear the ball away.  However the chance came half way through the first half when Charlie turned his man on the corner of the area and unleashed a cracking shot into the top right hand corner of the goal.  This immediately lifted Marshfield and the boys now knew they could score.  Westbury though continued to attack and had three of four chances to score and would have done if Oscar hadn't played so well.  He tipped one over the bar, punched one out and smothered more than one or two shots in a busy first half.  At the other end their goalkeeper took a routine goal kick and Jake managed to get in its way just inside his own half.  Before anyone could realise what he was doing, Jake went for his David Beckham moment and hit a ferocious shot with power, skill and accuracy straight into the back of their goal.  What a goal!  The rest of the team mobbed him in the celebrations and rightly so.  Within five minutes Marshfield took a throw from near the corner flag and this went flying into the penalty area towards Jake who with a flick of the head whizzed it past their keeper for 3-0.  A great headed goal and Jake was forming his own goal of the season competition.

The second half brought yet more pressure from Marshfield and this resulted in a penalty after a hand ball.  Captain for the day James stepped up and the keeper managed to dive on top of it for the save.  This was then repeated as the kick was retaken due to eager defenders running into the box.  Good effort James.  Bradley and Adam had a lot of work to do again in the second half and Bradley showed real maturity in his positional play and his concentration.  Adam responded first to most moves and this gave Westbury no time on the ball to bounce.  Akito literally threw himself into every tackle and is now finding that pass to his team mates to keep the attack going.  Nick had a toughie today as every time he got the ball he was given no time to do anything with it and this was due to good defending and not always enough support around him to lay the ball off.  Matt also had a good game and how he didn't score is I don't know.  He hit the post, got involved in a couple of goal mouth scrambles and the one time he was through on goal one-on-one the referee blew the whistle because of the foul on Akito that created the opportunity.  Charlie, who played his best match for Marshfield working hard and showing great skill, smashed the free kick into their player with such force it was clearly going to trouble the goalkeeper had it reached him.

This was another good team effort and our ability to stop the other teams playing through hard work and harrassment helped keep a clean sheet but ultimately this game was won by three brilliant goals by a team playing with confidence.  Well done everyone.

Well done Akito for getting man of the match.  Jakes goals were something special but we know what Jake can do!  However, in the end it was a neck and neck decision between Charlie and Akito today and because Charlie went home with a goal to tell and Akito went home with several bruises he just edged it!

Melksham Town Robins 0 - Marshfield 1

Scorers: Sam

Man of Match: Adam

Where do I start? The report for this match is going to use words like bitty and messy and that probably sums up the game.  For 38 minutes it seemed that every time we looked like scoring Melksham would throw themselves in front of the ball or we would take either one touch too many or none when we needed them.  In the first half Jake had several shots but with 20 yards between him and the small goal it was a tall order.  Sam, James and Bradley battled very well and Damien and Adam had to work hard against counter attacks as the ball continually switched sides.  Harry was nearly caught out by a high bouncing ball but reacted well to flip it over the bar.

In the second half Oscar and Charlie came on to liven up the midfield and we seemed to create more pressure but very rarely did they lead to a save by their goalie as defenders once again threw themselves in front of the final shot.  Damien smashed a shot into the top corner later on for their keeper to make an excellent save.  Jake threw himself into every tackle as usual and Sam, with just the keeper to beat, somehow managed to nudge it too far for the goalie to clear.  It was going to be nil nil.  With three minutes to go Sam broke through and again the goalie smothered the ball despite Sam thinking he was going to score. Another minute later and one final attack created another chance for Sam.  He picked it up in midfield with what looked like a nudge from the arm not spotted by the referee and then ran in fast and pushed it wide of the goalie and this time managed to get a toe onto it to push it over the line.  Phew - 1-0.  Melksham then had 3 consecutive corners but we held on to the win which must be attributed to the boys perseverance.

Adam was picked as man of the match due to the constant annoyance he made of himself with their attackers, never giving them time to get in a shot.  Everyone played really well so well done boys.

Marshfield 0 - Dilton Rovers 4

Man of Match: Bradley

Dilton Rovers have been playing good football and deserve their place in the league above us.  Only once in three games have we beaten them so today was going to be a challenge.  The starting line up were more than capable of doing well though, with Harry in goal, Louis, Akito, Adam, Oscar, Charlie, Jake, Bradley and Matt.  Therefore we could have done without the start we had where Dilton ran through our defence and neatly slotted home after just 3 minutes.  Still, we always prefer starting from behind.  About five minutes later they repeated this trick and other than a few runs down the wing we didn't get much chance to break them down.  Then just before half time a hard hit shot from their midfielder deflected off Adams back to make it 3-0.  In the last few minutes of the first half there were signs of change as Marshfield pressed with several corners, but nothing came of it.

In the second half we attacked much better and Dilton were clearly less of a threat.  We held the ball better and made some good runs but despite Jake and Oscar battling really hard to create chances we never quite managed to get it on target or the goalie managed to get in the way.  Dilton had a few chances themselves in the second half, one that was bundled out of the goal area, one that required the save of all saves by Harry - diving full stretch across the area to make up for a poor goal kick to tip the ball round the post.  A Match of the Day save!  Dilton did eventually score though, after bundling the ball past Harry with Akito clearing 'off the line'. In the absence of either goal line technology or a linesman the decision was made off the back of the appeals by the Dilton parents.  Akito said it wasn't a goal, they said it was so Simon went with the attackers and it was 4-0.

What the team did well was keep going and despite the score we gained in confidence on the ball.  What we need to learn to do better is to create space around us when we have the ball.  This means the boys need to think about who is standing around them when the ball is on its way to them and they need to think about what they are going to do with it before they do it.  A good first touch can set up a good run and this can make all the difference. Something to practice.

Man of the match went to Bradley for excellent performance during the training, for working hard in the match and for using the ball well when he got it.  Well done Bradley.

Marshfield 2 - Castle Combe 2 (League)

Scorers: Sam, Nick

Man of Match: Oscar

Castle Combe came to Marshfield 7 points clear of us having lost only two games this season.  It was therefore going to be a real test of the team, especially with top scorer Jake away.  The main message to the boys at the beginning of the game was don't wait for them to attack.  They did and they scored, 1-0 Castle Combe.  To be fair they attacked in style and were clearly a good passing team and deserved their early goal.  Marshfield as ever kept going and Sam, having lost the ball in the area made two strong tackles to eventually win it back and whilst between two defenders slotted the ball home between the keeper and the post - much to the surprise of the black and white defence.  A great goal.  Charlie and Bradley were working very hard in midfield and they had to such was the pace of the game.  Later in the first half Castle Combe broke 3 against 2 and left Oscar with no chance against Damien and Louis as the ball crossed across the area for the on-coming midfielder to slot home into an empty goal.  We were always confident of getting another goal and it didn't take long.  After a good clearance from defence Bradley and Sam helped find Nick who with a lot of work to do nudged it past the defender with a deft touch to smash the ball home into the bottom left of the goal.  A really first class finish from a striker on form.  At the end of the first half Oscar did the type of save that demonstrated why he won man of the match.  A looping shot from some 30 yards looked like it could just dip below the cross-bar but Oscar managed to get his fingers to it to push it up in the air before diving down on top of it.  Phew!

The second half brought out more heroics from Oscar who was under more pressure than he ever would want, smothering everything that they threw at him.  Matt came on with Akito to mix things up in midfield and worked well together on the left hand side with some good passing moves to create further chances for Marshfield as we pressed for the winner.  With about 10 minutes to go Sam broke into the box and with feet too quick for the defender won a penalty.  Denied only by the post the rebound couldn't be bundled over the line by Akito and Combe lived to fight another day.

A game we could have won and a game we could have lost so a draw seemed like a fair result.  Thank you again Bill for referring, picking up the dogs mess and for the "the referee said it was a goal kick" retort to a disputed decision by the away contingent.  All in a days work..

Marshfield 4 - Trowbridge Wanderers 2 (League)

Scorers: Nick (2), Jake, Sam

Man of Match: Louis

Louis was picked at captain and asked to lead the team from the back against an opponent that always give us a good game and boy did he put in that performance.  Our own John Terry threw himself into every situation he could and battled his way through a tough 40 minutes that made the midfielders job so much more easier.  Helped by Bradley, who never likes playing in defence but always does so well there, they really held together well despite a rocky first 5 minutes that saw us go 1-0 down to a goal direct from a corner.  Well done Bradley and Louis.

We seem to prefer to let the other team score first, as if we need the alarm to wake us up to play better.  Well we did and with some style attacked Trowbridge with some good passing that created some dangerous balls into the penalty area.  Nick smashed home the first after some good work down the wing by Sam and then Sam decided to have a crack himself from the right wing and within the space of five minutes we were in the lead.  During one ten minutes spell Nick and Sam were quite magnificent and really played some neat one-twos creating chance and after chance which were all well supported by Matt.  Further pressure on Trowbridge indicated we could start to get the game wrapped up at half time and the best goal of the match came from a cross from Sam which Nick quite superbly volleyed into the goal.  3-1 and it looked like we could cruise it.

Half time brought about a few changes in the team and Trowbridge attacked us more and more.  Trowbridge deserved their second goal after some good work down the left and the game was now back on.  Harry had to make at least three very important saves and further proof he is growing in confidence all the time.  With the battle in midfield now being as much won by Trowbridge as it was Marshfield we needed to speed the game up with some quick passing attacks.  Eventually after some pressing runs from Akito, Charlie and Matt we managed to break through and Jake kept a cool head to slot home the fourth goal and to put the game out of reach.  Another enjoyable game with some great highlights and a well deserved man of the match performance by captain Louis.

Larkhall Athletic 1 - Marshfield 2 (Cup 1/4 Final)

Scorers: Nick, Jake

Man of Match: Jake

A cup game in every aspect of the tradition, end to end stuff and quite thrilling for all on the touchline.  Larkhall brought a very good team and it was going to take something special from Marshfield to keep them out.  A team of Harry (goalie), Damien, Adam, Oscar, Charlie, Sam, Jake, Akito and Nick was going to be able to put up a good test but were we good enough?

A bad start indeed.  Larkhall attacked and after a well taken corner bounced at the back post they pounced on it quicker than we did and we were 1-0 down.  A response was vital and we came up with a perfect one.  The two Marshfield goals came quite early in game after strong runs down the wing from Jake and Sam created loose balls in the penalty area for Nick and then Jake (who had kept running) to smash home loose balls respectively.

The second half was going to have the wind against us and with Jake now pushed back to defence and Oscar and Akito on for Charlie and Adam respectively it was a different shape too.  Larkhall were excellent, breaking through our midfield with too much ease and creating the sort of chances we were doing last week against Trowbridge.  It was going to be a long half and it was going to take another goal from Marshfield to keep this game safe.  Somehow, for twenty minutes the boys played as if their lives depended on it and I have never seen a defence and midfield use so much energy.  At one point even striker Nick sprinted the whole length of the pitch to keep track with a Larkhall attacker and successfully prevented another shot on our goal.  They rattled the crossbar (did Harry get his fingers to it?) and Harry bravely threw himself into the ball and feet of their strikers on more than one occasion.  Damien looked like his legs were made of tree trunks the way he stood up to some strong tackles, mainly winning the ball before sprinting away to get it out of danger.  The final whistle brought about a welcome end to the attacks and a very hard working team walked off the pitch after one of the hardest battles of their football season the victors.  Well done team Marshfield.

Man of the match for so many reasons was Jake.  The whole team were of course outstanding, but Jake covered every blade of grass and seemed to make such crucial tackles and tracking runs on so many occasions they could not be counted.  He showed his strength, experience and cool head to lead the boys from the back and proved that you can win a game for your team from any position on the pitch.  Well done Jake.

Marshfield 7 - Trowbridge Town Youth C 0

Scorers: Jake (3 [1 pen]), Nick (2), Matt, Louis

Man of Match: Nick

This made up for last week as Marshfield returned to winning ways in style.  One of the best team performances of the season due to every player sticking to their job so thoroughly.  In the first half it was the speed in which we attacked that brought about the goals and our favoured approach of one-two style football gave us the goals we deserved through a superb hatrick by Jake.  One of which was a penalty after Nick was brought down in the area by two players.  Well done Jake.  James and Adam were not without their challenges and seemed constantly under pressure throughout the first half.  They stood up to their opponents well making well time challenges and made a nuisance of themselves every single time they got near the ball.  Superb concentration guys and you both played as if you had three shredded wheat for breakfast!  If ever they did get through, guess who was on hand to throw himself at the ball - yes Oscar.  How he kept a clean sheet with that much pressure I don't know but he was once again excellent.  The midfield is a difficult place to play due to the sheer amount of running required.  Jake, Matt, Bradley, Louis and Harry showed their strength as they raced back and forth up the pitch making crucial tackles, defence splitting passes and shots on goal.  Matt came close to scoring three, Harry was involved in every goal month scramble and Louis chased a shot by Matt before smashing it ove the line for his first goal of the season!

Man of the match was Nick and for good reason.  Nick led the line by taking up great positions and always seemed to be in the right place at the right time, a sure sign that he is reading the game so well.  His first touch to control the ball was refined and he kept his head held high to always see who was around him in space, and this created a goal or a goal scoring chance on many an occassion.  With two goals himself, plenty of shots and an excellent contribution to the game this was a trophy well deserved.  Well done Nick!

A quick word about Trowbridge, despite our success at getting the goals they kept on going, played some good football at times and were clearly a skillful team.  Sadly for them they couldn't quite get past the defence often enough and their final shot was therefore to infrequent to make a difference.  They played a good fair game and were very sporting at the end.

Thanks for Bill for referring.  No truth in the rumour that whenever he ref's we get a penalty!

Mere 1 - Marshfield 0 (League)

Man of Match: Sam 

This was a game where the coach got it wrong (Paul) and against a very good team we still could have beaten.  Rather than play to the teams strengths, decisions were made to protect the defence with Jake and this weakened the midfield. who were often over run.  Jake did excellent in the temporary role and in the first half seemed to keep us in the game with some very crucial tackles.  However, it was only half way through the second half when Jake swapped to midfield that it was obvious he was being missed as an attacking threat and that the defence would be less busy with him in front of them.  Sam was man of the match for some amazing dribbling runs and did everything in this game but score.  Harry made a fantastic save at the end of the match and nipped the ball around the post with his finger tips.  Charlie smashed a shot onto the bar, Oscar came close on two occassions and Matt and Bradley seemed to run for miles.  Apologies to these guys in particular, with Adam and Damien out of the team there were five players all wanting to play in midfield and this meant there wasn't much room on the pitch for them all.  Akito threw himself into every tackle seemingy prepared to get hurt at every occassion if necessary and Louis showed a very good understanding of the game with some good tackles and strong clearances.

So yes we were beaten by a single goal and without doubt their goalkeeper, who played very well, was a lot busier than Harry.  However, a change of team formation with the same players could have produced a better result.  I'll try harder next time lads!

Marshfield 3 - Trowbridge Wanderers 1 (Cup Game - 3rd Round)

Scorers: Sam (pen), Nick (2)

Man of Match: Nick

A cup game, a new kit, and a team we have never beaten after three attempts on a cold day.  After the pretty kit lady Nicola arrived with the new black and white kit it was clear the boys couldn't wait to get it dirty and some even managed this before the game.  Constant first half pressure from Marshfield resulted in corner after corner but in a packed penalty box it was very difficult to make this count.  Trowbridge were well organised and were getting to grips with defending well.  With orange defenders sat back so deep we had no real opportunities to get behind them to create chances and it took a penalty to bring about the only real opportunity of the first half after a trip on Jake.  With Sam having scored the previous penalty he stepped up and slotted the ball calmly home for the lead.  This spurred Trowbridge on and it didn't take them long to get back into the game with an excellent finish that left Harry with no chance as it rebounded in off of the post.  Game on.

The second half started off just as tight and both teams were having to defend well to block and prevent shots, but ultimately the goal keepers didn't have a lot of work to do.  With five minutes left Nick Harris was brought back on to liven up the game.  He immediately got to work and after some good defensive work went off to find some space up front.  With some swift passing through midfield Jake ran down the wing and drove a low cross across the six yard line and under enormous pressure from the oncoming defender Nick smashed the ball home bravely.  Can Marshfield hang on?  Almost immediately afterwards we attacked again and Charlie worked the ball wide for Sam to recreate a swirling run down the right wing.  He was expected to shoot but instead looked up and crossed the ball back to Charlie who smashed his shot into the goalkeeper.  Like all good strikers, Nick followed in the shot and the net was bulging one more.

Marshfield 3, Trowbridge 1.

Marshfield 2 - Westbury 1

Scorers: Akito, Sam

Man of Match: Oscar

It was difficult to know how this game would go as we had never played Westbury.  They had a good track record against good teams but had some unpredictable results against others.  From the start Marshfield put them under pressure and fortunately scored an early goal after Akito kept on running at (or was it through?) the defence.  It seemed to roll under the goalie and slowly across the line.  This was just what the boys needed as they were now up for it.  Shortly afterwards Nick made a break down the left and sped into the box.  Just as he was trying to shoot his ankles were clipped and down he went.  All eyes were on the referee and Bills long arm pointed straight to the spot.  With Nick hobbling back to position up stepped Sam to cooly slot home the ball insidet the right post like a German world cup player.  Much of the first half continued in the same vein and it was looking like Marshfield could have a comfortable win.  I spoke to soon.  As soon as the second half started it was clear that Westbury were going to put us under attack and this they did on a number of occassions.  James, Bradley and Adam through themselves in front of goal and Harry was looking like it would take something special to beat him.  That's what he got.  A hard shot powered over his head and into the net for a Westbury goal.  Game on.  It is probably fair to say that Marshfield hung on and both teams were very closely matched throughout the rest of the second half.  A well deserved win and the confidence of the team was now growing.

Thank you Bill for being ref.

Trowbridge Wanderers B 1 - Marshfield 1

Scorers: Matt

Man of Match: Joint winners James & Charlie

This was a very close game.  With no subs it was going to be tough for the boys and we knew that Trowbridge were getting better and better as a team the more the season went on.  The line-up of Harry, Damien, James, Matt, Bradley (captain), Charlie and Sam was going to give them a test and it was a team that we knew would work hard.

Marshfield got off to a great start after some good work by Damien at the back created an attack for Charlie.  The shot went into a crowded penalty area and was clipped home by Matt for his fourth goal of the season and second in two games.  From that point on the match was full of chances both ends and Harry came to the rescue of Marshfield on several occassions with some quite stunning and brave goalkeeping.  He is looking more and more comfortable with the ball every time he plays.  Trowbridge scored from a free kick that was smashed into the net after a slight deflection off the wall leaving Harry with no chance.  Heads could have dropped, but in true Marshfield style they battled on and on until the end and both teams had chances to win the game before the end.  However, the referee called an end to the match and a draw was a fair result for both teams.

Chippenham Town Youth Blue 1 - Marshfield 6 (cup game - 2nd Round)

Man of Match: Bradley

Scorers: Jake (2), Sam (2), Bradley, Matt

This was our second ever cup game and we were not sure how well we would do against a Chippenham team that had held us to a draw last season.  It was also probably one of the worst weather conditions we have ever played in and both teams did very well to compete against the strong winds.  In the end the attacking pressure of the boys proved too much for a brave opponent who kept going until the end and still left the pitch with smiles on their faces.  Jake was superb in midfield and if the game had lasted any longer would have certainly secured a hat-trick.  Sam also seemed to cover every blade of grass as always and one of his goals was lashed into the bottom left corner like a true professional.

It was a game that everyone could get involved in.  Bradley scored his first ever goal for the team, despite smashing the ball against the cross bar in the first half.  Matt belted home a half volley, Damien pressed hard down the left and Adam and James made sure everything was cleared up at the back.  Akito responded to every save required (he had no chance for their fine goal) and Charlie moved the ball around well in midfield.

A game well controlled by the referee with yet again some fine passing moves by a team now growing in confidence.  Three wins on the bounce.  Well done everyone.

Marshfield 6 - Mere Town 1

Man of Match: Jake

Scorers: Jake (3), Sam (2), Akito

We clicked.  Sometimes the boys are up for it and some times they are not.  This was the day when every player knew what they had to do and did brilliantly.  Starting at the back Oscar was tipping shots around the post, diving at peoples feet and yelling at the defence to stay organised.  Louis and Damien were never out of position and the timing of their tackles were crucial throughout, I lost count of how many times they blocked a cross with a last gasp lunge.  Jake, Sam and Akito in midfield initially looked like they could be too keen on attack to support the defence, but they managed to get themselves organised and passed the ball magnificently between them.  There was no hit and hope here, every single pass looked for another Marshfield player and more often than not it found them.  With Nick leading the line there was always a pass on due to the mazy runs he was making and the space he was creating as we used the full width of the pitch well.  The pressure from the whole team was simply too great and there was no way we were going to be beaten, however well Mere played, and they did play well.  Harry and Charlie came on just after half time and slotted straight into the speed of the game, with both coming close with firm shots from the edge of the area.  Ultimately though, this game came down to finishing.  Mere brought with them a very good goalkeeper but there was only so many times he could stop us.  Akito was always a threat and he was never going to stop working until he got that goal and it came early in the first half from a strong right footed strike.  Jake was awesome and is learning to combine fast and twisting runs with well placed shots or passes.  With three well taken goals and the match ball to take home with the Man of the Match award this was a good day out, well done.  Sam also put in a captain's performance often running the whole length of the pitch either to support an attack or his defence. His tackles were firm but fair and his touch on the ball to evade the opposition delicate.  Two excellent finishes wrapped up a superb performance.  Well done everbody.

Referee: Matt Cox

Trowbridge Youth C 1 - Marshfield 3

Man of Match: Damien

Scorers: Jake, Charlie, Sam

Judging by the mood the boys were in during the pre-match training it was not going to be a game that would start well.  No-one was concentrating!  Instead, early in the game Jake darted past two players to smash a shot onto the cross-bar to prove that this coach is incapable of predicting the play!  Jake was looking like it was going to be his game and this pattern continued throughout the match with an enormous amount of effort and every time he got the ball he looked a serious threat.  Harry once again did everything asked of him in goal and Damien showed maturity beyond his years with very well timed runs, tackles and clearances - an intelligent football player in the making.  Stand in defenders Matt & Louis supported James well in the absence of Adam and their red cheeks showed they could not have put any more effort into their performance.  Charlie was back to his best and distributed the ball well and deserved his goal later in the game with an instinctive drive following a loose ball.  This came either side of excellent goals from Jake and Sam; Jake went on yet another strong run after some great passing out of defence and fired low and hard into the net to put Marshfield into the lead.  With Charlies goal the game looked like ours for the taking but in true Marshfield style we conceeded a slightly sloppy goal to a battling Trowbridge.  A nervous ending?  It could have been but the boys responded with a positive attacking style of football that forced Trowbridge further back with some very effective passing by Bradley, Sam, Charlie and Jake in front of a confident defence.  A pass from defence looked like it would fall at the feet of the Trowbridge defender until Sam squeezed in a delicate toe to nudge it around the back enabling him to run onto the loose ball for a simple but well taken finish.  A very good demonstration of what the team can do and well done to Damien who narrowly beat Jake to the Man of The Match award.

Dilton Rovers 1 - Marshfield 0

Man of Match:Akito

This was a game that cannot easily be described without accusations of a biased report.  Dilton played well, defended tightly and kept out an assertive Marshfield team by always seeming to be in the way.  The shots that went past the defence also went past the post and nothing came of the strong pressure throughout the first half with Akito doing next to nothing in goal.  The second half was more of the same except this time we spread the ball around much much better and this resulted in more runs down the wing and crosses into the penalty area for Nick, Jake or Sam.  Frustratingly we had plenty of chances but didn't quite manage to take them and were hanging on the other end from quick breaks where Dilton hit the post twice.  Frustratingly a deflected free kick found the back of the net five minutes from time and we walked off the pitch only guilty of only failing to find the net.  A good team performance and an unfortunate result.

Marshfield 18 - Avebury 1 (Cup Game 1st Round)

Sam (6), Nick (5), Jake (3), Matt (2), Oscar (1),o.g.

The scoreline does all the talking and the goals were going in at the rate of one every two minutes.  The decision to offer a football to the scorer of a hat-trick didn't take into consideration matches like this, so well done to Sam for winning the ball for the first hat-trick of the game.  A phenominal performance from everyone in the team, including a cracking save from Akito in goal for the first time, proof that Avebury kept battling to the end.  A special mention to the Avebury players and coaches who took the result on the chin and kept their heads held high - that's something special in itself.  Well done everyone.

Marshfield 1 - Derry Hill 2

Goal scored by Jake.

After going in front from a goal by Jake it looked like Marshfield would go on and win well.  However, Derry got back in the game and with five minutes to go stole the winner with a well taken free kick that crashed in off the under side of the bar.  Marshfield rode the luck of the Russian Linesman when the ball appeared to cross the line, but the goal was not given.

Castle Combe 1 - Marshfield 1, attendance: 21 & 2 dogs

Goal scored by Nick, Man of the Match: Adam

It goes without saying that we were not sure how we would fair against a well respected team that had thumped Dilton Rovers 6-1 the week before and it was apparent from the players that they weren't expecting much from the game. A very strong side was fielded and within five minutes it was clear that both teams were pretty closely matched and capable of playing good football. The first break came ten minutes into the game as Castle Combe hit a hard shot following an attacking throw that was too well placed for Oscar. Goal! The real test was now to come, were the boys going to allow their heads to drop? They should never have been doubted. The response from the whole team from that point onwards proved to be the best ten minutes of football Marshfield have ever played. Damien and Adam never once stopped concentrating and were often first to the ball and the hardest players to beat on the pitch. The midfield of Jake, Akito & Sam created space for each other with some fine pass and move type football that ended with a break into the box by new starter Akito, evenutally leading to a penalty. Cool headed Nick Harris stepped up and unusually for him placed his shot firmly at the keeper who saved well. Fortunately, only two minutes later Akito broke through again to release a pass to Sam. With his back to goal Sam softly rolled back the ball to the oncoming Nick who smashed his shot into the top right hand corner of the goal. An exciting moment and up there in the top 5 of Marshfield's best team goals.

At half time the boys now knew they were capable of winning the game and were uplifted by the goal and their performance. The second half remained a close affair and both teams had opportunities to score, although to be fair Castle Combe had more of the attacking play. Adam was clear winner of the man of the match award and it was hard to find one thing that he did wrong in the whole game - superb! Thankfully, typically brave Oscar and his defence held together well and with support from James, Charlie, Jake and the others managed to block, tackle and head their way out of trouble time and time again until eventually the referee blue the whistle. A thoroughly entertaining match and an excellent performance from Marshfield that hopefully the boys can be build on.

Marshfield Junior 3 - Melksham Robins 4

Goals scored by Damien (2), Jake

The season got under way with the team playing together for the first time in several months and we welcomed new starters Matt and Bradley. We had played Melksham before at a tournament and after our 1-1 draw we were expecting a close match. Harry started in goal, giving Oscar a chance to play in an outfield position, and Damien was also given more attacking responsibilities. We are known as slow starters and nothing could emphasise this more than a goal within sixty seconds by Melksham as a quick break caught the team napping. In typical style however we bounced back and after a twisting run by Jake past three players he smashed home a low drive into the corner to level the game. Exactly what we practice in training, well done Jake. Melksham continued to press and the game went end to end as both goal keepers were asked to make saves if the defenders were not able to cope. Harry smothered the ball on a number of occassions and showed his rugby skills catching a few high balls as well. Each time Melksham scored we managed to get back in the game. Damien scored his first goal of the season after a six man passing move created a goal mouth scramble. As the ball fell loose Damien followed up on the goalkeepers save with a left footed drive into the net for his first ever goal for Marshfield. At 3-2 down the game was running out of time when Marshfield broke again following some good work by midfield creating an attack. Damien again passed his man and just managed to get the outside of his foot onto the ball to spin it into the inside of the post for what looked like the equaliser. Sadly, despite a lot of running and five consecutive corners for Melksham, the ball broke lose for the final attack of the game and their striker buried the ball past the keeper for the winner. A good game played with a great spirit all round.

Thanks Matt Cox for an excellent job as ref.

Man of Match: Harry

2007/2008 Season U10s Archive

See photos taken by Nick Vellacott of the Devizes 3-3 draw here. Thank you Nick, captures the game and the cold very well!

Current League Positions, courtesy of the Wiltshire Times can be found here:

http://www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk/sport/youthleague0708/u9sleague/u9sdivisionfive

3rd May 2008 - Match Report: FC Chippenham Youth 1 - Marshfield 1

Goals Scored by Jake

A scrappy game mostly played out in midfield by two teams with a lot to play for. Chippenham started the better of the two teams and after some pressure on the defence broke free to get a strong shot on goal which left Oscar no chance of getting a hand too. Marshfield weren't in the game and it was if their heads were too concerned with the league table. That said, straight after kick-off, after the introduction of Sam, Marshfield went straight down the other end after a strong shot by Jake was deflected into the Chippenham goal. It felt like the tide was now starting to turn. Just a few minutes later and Nick broke into the box and was clipped on the heels for a penalty. He recovered from the tackle to bravely take on the pressure and with dad filming in the background sent the ball into the keeper and the rebound followed in the same direction. It was looking like Marshfield were in the mood to pile on the pressure and goals and there were at least four corners and a strong shot by Jake that hit the post. However, by half time it was still 1-1. The second half started with the introduction of Leo and Marshfield started to create lots of opportunities to get forward but failed to get any real shots on goal as Chippenham through themselves in front of the ball. Again, there was corner after corner, free kicks and bursts through into the box but there was always a last minute tackle from a hard working defence. The game finished 1-1 and although slightly frustrating, it meant Marshfield are now unbeaten in their last ten games including the friendly over last years champions Trowbridge.

26th April 2008 - Match Report: Marshfield 3 - AFC Calne 1

Goals Scored by Leo (2), o.g.

Just a quick note, the boys were all very well behaved yesterday and worked very hard throughout training and the game. They really dug in for the second half as they were tired and Calne were looking to get back in it. They all played well, Louis didnt stop running the whole time and chased everything, Leo took his two goals well and Harry looked very strong in defence and moved up and down the pitch well getting involved in play reguarly. Oscar, Adam and James all made sure the team kept their lead with good defending and concentration, with Adam making some great last ditch tackles. Ollie and Sam never took their foot off throughout and Sam was full of energy, tackles and runs also putting in a superb shot from near the half way line which the keeper just got his fingers to. Obviously i must mention Damien who played all his part in midifeld and went on some great runs with the ball and got a couple of shots in. I thought Damien, Louis and Sam all linked up really well together and made some really good passes.

- Thanks to Paul for taking training and of coure to John too.

19th April 2008 - Match Report: Marshfield 4 - Dilton Rovers 2

Goals Scored by Sam, Ollie, Nick & Jake

Top of the league came to top league scorers Marshfield for a game that both teams wanted to win as the battle at the top of the table intensifies. After the first ten minutes it was remarkable that Marshfield were not down by two or three goals and only last minute tackles and some yet again brave goal keeping by Oscar kept Marshfield in the game. Against the run of play the blues broke with a long run by Sam who broke away from tackle after tackle with some deft turns. A neat pass found Nick who with a very cool head deftly returned the ball with his first touch to set up the killer blow for Sam to send the goalkeeper the wrong way with all the confidence of a boy in form. 1-0 Marshfield.

As we entered the second half Marshfield gained more momentum and another pressing attack created a classic goal mouth scramble and as the ball fell loose to Ollie there was only one outcome as he volleyed the ball into the back of the onion bag. This was Ollies first goal for Marshfield, a fact not lost on his team mates as they immediately mobbed their new hero. 2-0 Marshfield.

Credit due to Dilton Rovers, they re-grouped and put the pressure on very well and for the first time in the game broke past Louis on the wing to get the vital cross that set-up the goal. They were back in the game. Just a few minutes later another scramble and for once Oscar couldn't smother the ball and again Dilton celebrated a goal. It was now a test of character for the Marshfield team, and for the next ten minutes they found plenty of it and through sheer determination chased every ball and won almost every tackled until eventually Nick Harris latched onto a loose ball in the box to volley hard into the left hand side of the net. Can we hang on? If there were any doubts, these were cleared when Sam took his time (was he winding down the clock?) to chip over a perfect corner which Jake watched all the way to firmly head home Marshfield's fourth goal and first ever headed goal from a corner.

This was an excellent performance and particular highlights were Ollies first goal, Harry's huge contribution to the game, Louis who didn't seem to miss a tackle, Oscar for keeping Marshfield in the game and of course Sam for still making it look like there are three of him on the pitch at any one time.

An excellent team performance - well done everyone!

28th March 2008 - Match Report: Devizes Town 1 - Marshfield 1

Goals Scored by Charlie

The same old story - a draw. This time Marshfield scored in the first minute and Devizes scored in the last. A long game with very tired players. Well done everyone for another determined effort.

15th March 2008 - Match Report: Marshfield 2 - Derry Hill 0

Goals Scored by Leo & Jake

The Marsfield players seem to be having a mini competition of goal of the season and this time Jake added his name to the list with a scorcher from outside the area after a strong run down the right wing. Marshfield seem to have found a league where every team is very evenly matched and Derry proved very tough to break down and had some good players who controlled the ball with confidence. It was another end to end encounter and only hard work was going to break down Derry. Marshfield put in plenty of this with all players covering every blade of grass (and mud) and it was through these efforts that the second goal came with an instictive shot on the turn from Leo that crept just inside the post. Leo had a great game and took every opportunity to close down the defence and raced into the box with every attack without ever giving up hope. The defence of Adam, Damien and Charlie threw themeselves in front of every ball and Oscar was required to dive on top of more than a couple of loose balls, in one instance taking an accidental blow to the head in the process. Typically, he recovered to continue playing his high standard of football, with more mud on his face than the ball. Sam and Nick swapped regular passes in what is now their normal arrangement of 1-2's building up to attack and Ollie pressed the midfielders hard taking up good positions to block out key passes. Our second win of the season and one of our most consistent performances and better still the positional play of the boys is improving all the time. Well done Marshfield.

8th March 2008 - Match Report: AFC Calne 2 - Marshfield 2

Goals Scored by Leo & Jake

Another game another draw. Twice Marshfield led and twice Calne fought back well to get themselves back into this close game. The game was very well balanced and neither goal keeper had to undertake any major saves mainly due to the quality of the defending which was well managed by both teams, with Jake and Damien winning almost every tackle and clearance they went in for. Midfield was a well fought battle and Ollie made some very decisive blocks and clearances that prevented another attack on the Marshfield goal, it is good to see confidence getting better Ollie! Captain Louis worked tirelessly up and down the pitch often achieving runs which were unfortunately always one defender too long. Supported by Charlie who once again covered every blade of grass with tackles and runs we managed to create some good chances for Leo up front before a loose rebound created just the opportunity Leo needed to slot home the first goal. A similar goal from Calne in the second half brought them into it, but Marshfield kept there heads and with Louis now installed as right back it allowed Jake to get further forward to support Nick which then created that vital second goal. Unfortunately Marshfield couldn't hang on and despite Oscar bravely throwing himself in front of their striker Calne simply outnumbered the blues defence and the equaliser resulted. A fair result and Marshfields fourth draw in the last five games. We remain unbeaten this season!

1st March 2008 - Match Report: Marshfield 2 - Dilton Rovers 2

Goals Scored by Charlie & Leo

A game of two halves. Marshfield suffered a bit of stage fright during the first half of a windy match against Dilton Rovers, a well organised and fair team with some good ball players. Quite how we got to half time with just two goals conceeded can only be explained by Oscar who touched the ball more in the first 20 minutes than any other Marshfield player. The grass was quite long and the pitch muddy and the ball was just not moving.

That all changed in the second half though as Marshfield decided to attack quicker and harder. Very quickly opportunities to shoot were secured and some very good defending helped preserve Dilton's league for five minutes until the breakthrough came from Charlie. Sam won the ball in midfield after a clearance from Damien and pumped a long pass down the wing for Nick to run on to. A nice early square pass then allowed Charlie to unleash a right foot shot that might well have gone over the cross bar had it not been for that last minute gust of wind that held it up enough to drop it in under the crossbar. Marshfield were back in the game! Five minutes later another repeat attack saw a goal mouth scramble favour Leo who quickly reacted to the goalkeepers parry to head the ball home for the equaliser. At this point it was looking good but Dilton came back very strong and again on several occassions Oscar smoothered the ball or tipped shots around the post. On one occassion the ball hit him firmly in the face and he held his nerve to ensure the follow-up shot was defended too.

Well done everyone for grinding out a well earned draw, our third of the season, and special mention again to Oscar and Charlie for superb performances.

23rd February 2008 - Match Report: Marshfield 5 - Chippenham Youth B 3

Goals Scored by Sam (3), O.G. (2)

This was the fourth time the two teams have met and on each occassion the score has gone in Marshfields favour, which doesn't tell a true story about how good the Chippenham team play. On this occassion Marshfield got the better of them again and two well organised teams conjured up a 5-3 score-line that made thrilling viewing. We had the lot, own goals, shots from outside the area, great saves, goal saving tackles, plenty of corners and good sporting play all round. Marshfields' goal scorers were Sam, who got his first hatrick of the season and the two Chippenham defenders whose failed clearances deflected into their own net from corners. The best goal of the game came from a superb pass out of defence from left back Damien who in finding Charlie got the midfield moving forward. Charlie released Sam with an early ball and there was still plenty of work to do before Sam darted left and right before unleashing an unbeatable drive over the goalies head and just under the cross bar. A great team moment and an example of good passing football at its finest. Well done to everyone in the team, including stand-in goal keeper Harry and thanks again to Bill for stepping in as ref.

9th February 2008 - Match Report: Derry Hill Rovers 0 - Marshfield 0

Marshfield visited Derry Hill for the first time ever and were therefore unsure what type of game to expect. As it turns out it was a very tight battle between some very good players. In such a closely fought game there was little room on a small pitch and the first goal was going to fall to the team that could create the best chance. Marshfield created a few chances in the first half and on each occassion Jake and Sam narrowly missed the post.

Louis, who was playing his first game in goal, looked like a seasoned professional as he controlled the penalty area and on one occassion ran into a good position to parry a shot for a corner with his hands. This was the only real save of the match although were a few other times when he had to dive on the ball to stop the ascending Derry Hill forwards.

Sam and Jake ran out of puff more than once and once again Damien and Adam showed why they are gaining a reputation as the unbeatable defenders due to some essential and very well timed tackles. It is good to see Damien getting more involved in the game and it wont be long before some chances for a goal fall his way.

Harry and Ollie had the tough job of commanding a crowded midfield and in particular during the second half stopped a few key attacks with some carefully timed blocks and controlled passes out of defence.

A tiring game against a friendly and well organised team and a deserved point for each team.

2nd February 2008 - Match Report: Marshfield 3 - Devizes Town 3

Goals Scored By Sam (2), Charlie

As usual, a very biased view follows on the game so feel free to offer an alternative more objective comment on the match.

On a partly frozen pitch it was clear that the game was going to be full of mistakes due to the hard surface and cold feet and hands. Despite this, Marshfield got off to a bright start, but struggled to move the ball around a very crowded midfield as both teams swapped posession almost every pass. James using the match day to demonstrate how much his tackling and gritty blocking have come on in recent weeks. Harry ignored the cold and even under pressure from Devizes still managed to look around him and find the right pass to a team mate.

A game full of quick tackles frustrated the players but eventually Devizes got an early break through just before half time to lead one-nil with Oscar unable to see the shot coming such was the number of defenders throwing themselves in front of the ball. At half time the team were swapped around and on came Sam and Charlie to help get the ball moved around a bit more.

Soon after the break Marshfield again found themselves picking the ball out of the net after a relatively unthreatening attack led to a well taken goal by Devizes. At this point the heads could have dropped but instead the boys kept going and after a superb strike from Sam that conceeded a free kick Marshfield had a tricky free-kick about 15 yards outside of the goal. Up stepped Sam who in Ronaldo like fashion lifted the ball into the air only for the Devizes defender to handle it for the first penalty of the game. Sam kept a cool head and positively smashed it into the back of the net to bring Marshfield back into the game. Worse was to follow as Devizes further attacked the Marshfield goal and on several occassions Oscar showed bravery beyond his years to smother a lose ball at the feet of the on-coming attackers. Is there a better goalkeeper in the league?

Then disaster struck for Marshfield as Devizes smashed home a magnificent third goal to leave the game out of reach of the win with just 10 minutes to go. However, as they battled from a well timed tackled by Adam, Sam released the ball out of defence to find Nick who with a deft touch rolled the ball into Charlies path to cannon a goal in off their keeper. Is there time for Marshfield to rescue it, well thanks to some superb tackles and clearances by Jake and further Gerrard like energy from Louis one more attack was available and a corner was granted. Up stepped Sam to roll the ball in front of Jake who despite his best efforts was blocked by at least three Devizes players. The last chance lost? A spot of madness from the Devizes centre back in handling the ball now game Sam the last kick of the match. Can he handle the pressure - the roar from the parents and his team mates answered the question as the game finished in a well earned draw for both sides.

Thank you to Simon for being ref again.