U12s 'Utd' Reports

Brixington Blues fielded two sides in the Sidmouth Town tournament held at Newton Poppleford. The ‘B’ team progressed to the second phase of the group matches, but failed to make the semi finals. The ‘A’ team reached the semi finals, but lost at that stage of the tournament.

Blues ‘A’ won their first four 1^st phase group matches, beating Sidmouth Waifs 2-0 (Jake Preece, Lewie Farrant), Colyton ‘A’ 2-1 (Joe Harnick, Luke Moody), Sidmouth Strays 4-0 (Harnick 2, Preece, Moody) and S A S ‘B’ 1-0 (Harnick), then drew the fifth match 0-0 with Heavitree Dynamos. In the 2^nd phase, they beat S A S ‘A’ 1-0 (Moody), drew 1-1 with Colyton ‘A’ (Preece) and beat Colyton ‘B’ 2-1 (Moody, Preece). Although Blues ‘A’ had played well to this point, they were beginning to tire and lost 0-1 to Heavitree in the semi final.

After losing their first two 1^st phase matches 0-1 to S A S ‘A’ and 0-2 to Sidmouth Imps, Blues ‘B’ showed great character in fighting back to beat Beacon Knights 2-0 (Andy McInnes, Jacob Bellamy) and Seaton Town 2-0 (Shane Fyles, Ryan Fraser-Roe), then drew 1-1 with Colyton ‘B’ (McInnes). All their 2^nd phase matches were 1-1 draws against Sidmouth Waifs (Fraser-Roe), Sidmouth Imps (Fyles) and Heavitree Dynamos (Fraser-Roe). They had just failed to reach the semi final.

Blues ‘A’: Billy Zberowski, Lewie Farrant, Joe Harnick, Jake Preece, Luke Moody Darryn Carpenter-Cossey and Owen Newson.

Blues ‘B’: Ben Wiltshire, Ryan Fraser-Roe, Ollie Stowe, Shane Fyles, Dan Reynolds, Andy McInnes and Jacob Bellamy

Clubmates and strong rivals Brixington Blues and Brixington United were both outstanding and played some superb football in the Twyford Spartans (HEPCO) Tournament at Tiverton, despite the awful weather and increasingly difficult, muddy conditions.

The Blues were undefeated in Group I, which they won by scoring 13 times without reply. In their six group matches (scorers in brackets) they beat Braunton ‘A’ 4-0 (Jake Preece, Joe Harnick, Shane Fyles and own goal), drew 0-0 with Plymouth Parkway, beat Street & Glastonbury ‘A’ 3-0 ( Harnick, Preece and own goal), drew 0-0 with Kewstoke ‘A’, beat Twyford Sparta 4-0 (Fyles 2, Preece and Harnick) and beat Barnstaple ‘B’ 2-0 (Lewie Farrant and Luke Moody).

United faced a tough group, but backed by a solid defence which didn’t concede a single goal in the group, they played some great football. Wins over Holway 2-0 (West 2), Weston Crusaders 3-0 (West, Smith and Barnett) and Hamilton 2-0 (West and Smith), combined with 0-0 draws with Kewstoke ‘B’, Braunton ‘B’ and SAS ‘A’ meant that United topped their group.

Both teams won their quarter finals, Blues beating Stoke Hill 2-1 (Moody and Harnick) and United beating Kewstoke ‘A’ 1-0 (West).

Unfortunately, Blues and United then had to play each other, so that only one could progress to the final. This time it was Blues turn and after beating United 3-0 (Preece 2 and Darryn Carpenter-Cossey), they contested the final with Braunton ‘A’.

The final was a very close affair, with neither side able to break the deadlock. After extra time the match was still goalless and had to be decided by a penalty shootout. The Blues brilliant keeper, Billy Zberowski, had only conceded a single goal in all nine matches and was not about to let his team down now. He produced two fantastic saves and almost got to the other penalty which just sneaked in off the post. Lewie Farrant and Jake Preece both scored to ensure a 2-1 victory, so the Blues last penalty did not need to be taken. The team has now already won two tournaments this season, playing marvellous football which is a credit to the Club.

Blues: Billy Zberowski, Lewie Farrant, Darryn Carpenter-Cossey, Joe Harnick, Jake Preece, Luke Moody, Shane Fyles and Dan Reynolds.

United: Dean Rawlings, Dan Clarke, Ben Pratt, Tom Sellick, Liam Wardle, Liam West, Marcus Barnett and Howard Smith.

	P	W	D	L	Pts
Brixington Blues	6	4	2	0	14
Plymouth Parkway	6	4	1	1	13
Braunton ‘A’	6	3	1	2	11
Kewstoke ‘A’	6	3	1	2	10
Barnstaple ‘B’	6	3	0	3	9
Street & Glastonbury ‘A’	6	1	0	5	3
Twyford Sparta	6	0	1	5	2

	P	W	D	L	Pts
Brixington United	6	3	3	0	12
Holway	6	4	0	2	12
Kewstoke ‘B’	6	3	2	1	11
Braunton ‘B’	6	3	1	2	10
SAS ‘A’	6	2	2	2	8
Weston Crusaders	6	2	0	4	6
Hamilton	6	0	0	6	0

Brixington United knew that they must win today to ensure that they finished runners up in the Hendy Honda League and win they did. United started brightly against Central and soon found lots of space on the wings with Jake Collinson and man of the match Daniel Clarke causing the opposition all sorts of problems. United began to camp in the central half and it was not long before a wicked Jake Collinson corner found its way into the net this goal was soon followed up when Daniel Clarke was found on the right wing in lots of space allowing him to home in on goal and finish confidently past the Central keeper. Collinson soon added his second after more great wing play before the right winger Daniel Clarke was found again in space to strike the ball into the roof of the Central net. United came in at half time 4 goals in front after playing outstanding football for the whole of the first period.

It was superb all round team play which allowed United to carry on where they left off in the first half with goals being added by Howard Smith, Marcus Barnett and Guy Clifford Harding. United have faced much tougher opposition this season but will take credit for the fact that they have only lost one league match all season and drawn two to allow them to finish runners up finishing just two points behind the top placed team. United have had a fantastic season and have progressed into a fine footballing team who are able both to play superb passing football but also when necessary to roll their sleeves up and battle hard. I would like to thank all involved with the side for providing me with some great memories from this season but most of all to the boys for their superb commitment and effort which has seen them achieve this fantastic league position in their first season of competitive football.

United went into this game against the opposition that knocked them out of the cup knowing that a win would secure them second place in the Hendy Honda League. It was Westexe who started brightly and caught United napping at the back to go one goal ahead, this early set back kick started United into life and it was not long before a jinking solo run down the right wing which started in the United half brought Marcus Barnett the equaliser as he slotted the ball hard and low past the Westexe keeper. United continued to dominate the play and contest every loose ball as they proved that they are capable of not only battling but also of playing smart passing football. It was not long before the hard working Matthew Plowman chased down a loose ball in the corner of the pitch and held it well before delivering a near post cross for Howard Smith to finish United were in front and looked like they were hungry for more. With the central midfield pairing of Ody and Sellick contesting every ball and the defence again looking solid it was United who dominated the first half. Their domination was rewarded when they won a free kick mid way into the Westexe half and Liam West strode forward from the defence to score with a fantastic right foot effort into the roof of the Westexe net this awesome goal showed that United were up for winning this game and gaining their revenge.

The second half continued to be dominated by United and they continued to push forward and create opportunities. The whole of the team pressed and hurried the Westexe team not allowing them to play football. The only goal of the half was Howard Smith`s second when he chased down a lost cause and placed the ball high into the right hand side of the Westexe net. United were never going to loose the game as they came with the correct attitude which has contributed to their excellent season. If results go United`s way the league title could yet become theirs.

The man of the match award went to the whole team for a truly outstanding performance.

United found themselves facing tough opposition in this cup semi final and were unfortunate to lose. United started brightly and found themselves creating chances but were unable to finish any of them. It was Howard Smith who broke through the Westexe defence to find himself one on one but was affected by the first of many bad refereeing decisions when he was belatedly pulled up for offside, was this to be Uniteds luck for the day. It was Westexe who went ahead just before half time when poor marking contributed to the first goal of the game. United to their credit never let their heads drop and with Liam West who deservedly was awarded man of the match tidying up everything in defence it was a question of how long would it take for United to get back into the game. United were blown away by a fluke goal from a corner to find themselves 2-0 down. Still United never gave up and continued to press forward without getting their reward. On the day United were unlucky not to get anything that they deserved and must remember that they did well to get this far. United must now continue to maintain their excellent league form when they face Westexe in the league in their next match.

United faced their cup quarter final opponents in the league and this time they ran out comfortable winners. It was United who attacked Broadclyst from the first minute with their attacking flowing passing style and began to create chance after chance, with the United defence being in a dominating mood and Collinson and Barnett attacking down the wings to set up chances for Smith and Plowman it was a matter of time before the first goal would come. It was a defence splitting ball from centre back West which put Howard Smith through one on one with the Broadclyst keeper, Smith confidently lifted his head looked up and placed the ball high above the advancing keeper into the net. United continued to dominate the first half and create chances and it was not long before Collinson cut in from the left wing and added the second with an excellent right footed finish to lead United in at half time two goals ahead.

In the second half United continued to outplay Broadclyst with their passing football but could not find a way through to attack the goal. United found themselves having to defend more as the game went on but the back four of Philp, Pratt, West and Lehuray backed up by keeper Rawlings never looked like conceding even when a Broadclyst forward found himself one on one with Rawlings it was Rawlings who emerged the victor with an outstanding save. United once again proved that if they remain disciplined and play their passing game they will continue to climb in the league. United face Westexe next Saturday in the Cup semi final at Cowick Barton in Exeter in a game where hopefully they will continue to produce their league form.

Man of the Match went to Benjamin Pratt who never put a foot wrong throughout the game.

United were away to Hemyock this week and a mixture of illness and unavailability meant United only had 11 players but these 11 totally dominated the game, only briefly letting the home team back into it when they equalised Jake Collinson opening goal when he superbly finished Liam West’s defence splitting pass. United soon regained the lead when Howard Smith fired the ball home after a great passing move involving Smith Plowman and Clifford-Harding .

In the second half United kept passing the ball really well making Hemyock chase all over the pitch. It was Harry Ody who broke into the box twice to supply neat finishes to crosses from Smith and Ploughnman. United never looked in too much trouble as there defence dealt comfortably with everything thrown at them. With Sellick and Ody winning the midfield battle it allowed Collinson, Smith, Plougman and Clifford-Harding the freedom to produce many more chances.

All 11 United players could have won man of the match today but in the end Guy Clifford-Harding just shaded the other 10.

United were away at Exwick this week and history shows that this game always produces a tight fixture.

United started well and good football soon provided chances for Ody, Collinson and Smith but none of these found their way past the Exwick keeper. United seemed to lose a bit of confidence in their passing style of football and this allowed Exwick back into the game and only a smart save from keeper Rawlings and good defending from Philp kept United in the game. The only goal of the game came on the stroke of half time when Clarke combined with Smith on the right wing who sent over a fizzing cross which came off a Exwick keeper and into the net.

United dominated possession in the second half and the powerful running of Barnett, Smith and Collinson created many chances but not one clear cut enough for United to add the second goal that their dominance deserved. Exwick kept battling to the end and won a succession of corners in the last few minutes which highlighted how slender the lead was. United defended superbly on the day and in patches passed the ball really well they have just got to keep believing in their passing games because in tight fixtures such as this it will be the difference between winning and losing.

United did not start brightly in this quarter final and soon found themselves a goal down, this was what was needed to kick start the United team into life and they soon began to press forward and win the battle in this end to end cup tie. The first half continued to be an end to end affair with both sides creating chances but neither scoring any more goals.

The second half began in the same vain and it was the ever running Howard Smith who teamed up with Marcus Barnett down the right wing to create a promising United attack, the one touch passing between the two carried them closer to the Broadclyst goal and it was Barnett who finished the move with a well struck finish. At last United had what they deserved now could they go on to win the game. United now began to dominate the game in spells with the tough battling man of the match Tom Sellick fighting for every ball in the middle of the park and winning most of them as well driving the team forward. Smith and Plowman worked non stop in attack but the final pass could not be found through the tight Broadclyst defence. United found themselves behind for the second time in the game when Broadclyst struck again, now was the test could they dig deep enough to fight back again? The question was soon answered when the ever running Smith Chased a loose ball down and beat a Broadclyst defender with a superb inside pass to set Oskar Wynne up in front of goal, the finish applied by Wynnes right boot left the Broadclyst defender with no chance. United continued to surge forward looking for the finishing goal and it was Ben Pratt whose left foot shot struck the post as the final whistle was blown. What would extra tiome bring was the question on everybody’s lips. Extra time continued to be end to end but neither team was able to apply the finishing goal and the game had to be decided on penalties.

Craig Galloway of Broadclyst faced Rawlings first and all the Brixington players watched with as he ran up and pulled the ball wide of the post. Smith stepped forward for United and with a 100% record this season the money was on him to score he struck the ball with great venom but straight at the Broadclyst keeper. Josh Rogers stepped up for Broadclyst and struck his penalty straight at Rawlings. Itwas Jake Collinson who drew first blood as he finished left footed into the net. The tension rose as Dan Gale of Broadclyst strode forward but again United breathed as Rawlings produced a fantastic save to deny him. It was Liam West who put United two ahead as he finished confidently, Tom Robertson scored Broadclyst`s fourth leaving Thomas Philps needing to score to send United through. Everybody fell silent as he ran up to take his spot kick but they were soon cheering as he placed the ball past the Broadclyst keeper.

United fought and battled from start to finish in this great advertisement for youth football. The players from both teams should be proud of themselves for the great exhibition they provided.

United Squad:- Rawlings, Clarke, West, Lehuray, Pratt, Sellick, Barnett, Collinson, Ody, Smith, Plowman, Philps, Clifford-Harding, Wardle, Wynne, Hull.

United started brightly against a Pinhoe side whom played better football than their current league place would indicate however United struggled to find the killer pass or finishing touch on a very bumpy playing surface. United were the team who played all of the attacking football in the first 10 minutes and should have taken the lead earlier than when Jake Collinson`s sweetly struck free kick nestled into the far corner of the net. It was the never ending running of Smith and Barnett in midfield backed up by Sellick with his timely interceptions that allowed Clarke and Wardle on the wings to find themselves in lots of space to attack the Pinhoe defence. It was a through ball from Barnett that put Smith through one on one with the keeper when suddenly a Pinhoe defender appeared and pushed Smith off of the ball. Smith stood up dusted himself down and struck the penalty into the Pinhoe net. Spartans once again stepped up a gear and a momentary and very rare lack of concentration in the United defence allowed Pinhoe to pull one back just before the half time whistle.

In the second half United were plying downhill and began to attack the Pinhoe goal with more vigor and force with both Collinson and Smith coming close on many occasions between being frustrated by the Pinhoe off side trap. It was Collinson who found himself one on one with the keeper and just as he wound back his left foot he was tapped on the ankles by a Pinhoe defender, Smith stepped up again to strike home the resulting penalty. The United defence began to find themselves under attack but as they have all season they did not look like conceding. It was a good cross from Clarke on the right wing which set up Collinson to head home at the far post. United found themselves tested at times by a tough and determined Pinhoe side and I am sure on a better playing surface United would have found it easier to play their usual passing game and inflict even more damage..

United Squad:-Rawlings, Philps, West, Lehuray, Ody, Clarke, Sellick, Barnett, Wardle, Collinson, Smith, Hull , Clifford-Harding

Brixington United started the match playing into a blustering wind and soon found themselves having to defend against both the elements and the attacking Central team. It was United who managed to hold out against both forces and soon began to play their attacking passing football. Some god wing play from Daniel Clarke and the never ending running of Marcus Barnett and Howard Smith soon began to show weaknesses in the Central defence. It was this trio who combined to set up Barnett to score the first goal of the game. The United defence of Ody, West, Lehuray and Philips continued to soak up the pressure whilst at the other end Plowman was unlucky not to add a second goal for United.

At half time United came in with a deserved one goal lead and looked forward to playing with the wind to exert pressure on Central. In the second half United failed to find their flowing passing movement and did not look like they would be able to break down the resilient Central side. United continued to attack with long ball football but could not find the finishing touch. Finally Howard Smith broke the offside trap and roared down one on one with the Central keeper who rushed out of his box and handled Smith’s shot. In an act of sportsmanship the Central keeper was allowed to stay on the pitch but he was punished by the wicked right foot free kick of Liam West which soared into the top left hand corner of the Central net. United should now of got their tails up but the midfield lost its shape and this allowed Central to pull back a goal with minutes left on the clock. Man of the match goes to Harry Ody who rarely put a foot wrong playing out of position. United must learn that attitude plays an important part in football as does discipline and this must be demonstrated at all times in order for United to be able to play consistently at the high level they are capable of.

United Squad: Rawlings, Philps, West, Lehuray, Ody, Collinson, Sellick, Barnett, Clarke, Plowman, Smith, Wardle, Clifford-Harding,Wynne.

United faced Hemyock in the cup this week and on a very heavy pitch with the rain lashing down they nearly came unstuck to a team much lower in the league than themselves. Hemyock started the game positively as United struggled to play their usual passing game and it was united keeper Rawlings who was the busier. Once United did start to play they dominated and the livewire strike partnership of Smith and Plowman were looking dangerous and it was the latter who put United in front after good work from Smith and Clarke set him up to finish well, Smith then added a brace of goals himself and it was his non stop running that fashioned the chances along with the through balls from West and Philps.

At the break United led 3-0 and looked comfortable as the rain drove down and the pitch became heavier Hemyock came into their own and managed to pull a goal back midway through the second half and although United had many chances to stretch the lead they could not find the finish their good build up play deserved. The inevitable happened with 5 minutes to go as Hemyock scored again to make the score 3-2. Panic stations set in as Hemyock threw everything at the United goal but the defence held firm and United continued through to the quarter finals. United will play better this season but will not have to battle much harder to win a game. Man of the match was shared by Howard Smith for his non stop running and two goals and Liam West who just shaded the other defenders.

United Squad:- Rawlings, Phlips, West, Lehuray, Pratt, Ody, Sellick, Barnett, Clarke, Plowman, Smith, Clifford-Harding, Wardle, Hull .

United faced top of the table Stoke Hill on windy morning but blew them away with a team performance of stunning quality. Some of Uniteds passing and moving in the first half left the league leaders chasing shadows. United had already created chances for Smith, Plowman and Wynne before Liam West scored their first with a free kick from 30 yards. Smith quickly added the second drilling home the ball from a neat move. Smith then turned provider as his strike partner Plowman cracked home a volley from Smith’s cross. Smiths 2nd and Uniteds fourth came when he latched on to Clifford- Harding’s through ball and finished neatly.

With the wind at their backs and to their credit Stoke Hill began the second half on top and their pressure resulted in them scoring from a goal mouth scramble. Stoke Hill carried on pressing forward but were unable to score again with the defence of Philp, West, Lehuray and Pratt looking ever solid. Uniteds midfield of Barnett and Wynne again began to dominate and Uniteds ability to break quickly was evident as Jake Collinson started to create havoc down the left wing it was his cool finish that added Uniteds fifth and he then turned provider with a great cross finished by Liam Wardle. The six goals gave United the final show that their dominance had deserved. With every player being outstanding the man of the match award was given to the whole team. United really are beginning to take their performances to the next level with their superb passing and movement being great to watch. The Stoke Hill manager summed up the performance with the statement "United are the best team we have faced this season"

United Squad: - Rawlings, Philp, West, Lehuray, Pratt, Collinson, Wynne, Barnett, Clarke, Plowman, Smith, Clifford-Harding, Hull , Wardle.

Brixington United started the new year with a bang when they played away and beat their opposition scoring 12 goals in a display of energetic bright passing football.

United began to attack the Wasps goal straight from kick off creating chance after chance with superb flowing passing football, it was Matt Plowman who scored the first goal which was quickly followed up by a fantastic curling shot into the top corner from Daniel Clarke. United continued to press forward and Howard Smith soon added the third quickly followed by a screamer from the edge of the box by Liam West. United were creating chance after chance with the ever running Marcus Barnett causing mayhem with his central midfield partner Tom Sellick playing his usual dominant holding role he was allowed to play the free role in midfield and cause chaos to the Wasps. Just before half time Harry Ody added the fifth from another passing move.

After the break United continued to show great discipline and soon began to create more chances despite playing up hill Guy Clifford- Harding soon added the sixth before Blake Hull was brought down in the box to allow Matt Plowman to score his second from the penalty spot. It was the Wasps who then attacked when the United defence was caught AWOL and the score was 7-1 to United. It was man of the match Barnett who added the eighth and Smith soon followed this up with the ninth. Would United make it to double figures we asked and this was soon answered when Jake Collinson struck his first and United’s tenth. Wasps were then awarded a free kick and before keeper Rawlings could organise his wall the ball had beat him at the front post to make the score 10-2. Matt Plowman completed his hat trick to make it 11-2 before Howard Smith also completed his hat trick to make it 12-2.

United can take great credit from this win as at last they took to the pitch what they learn at training and made it happen with great effectiveness. United’s flowing passing football and great discipline allowed them to notch up a good victory.

United Squad: - Rawlings, Philps, Pratt, West, Lehuray, Clarke, Collinson, Sellick, Barnett, Plowman, Smith, Ody, Clifford-Harding, Hull ,

United suffered their first defeat of the season in their last game of 2004 against a very strong and well organised Twyford team.

In the first half the back four of West, Lehuray, Clarke and Pratt held the ever attacking Twyford team at bay until just before the half time break. It was a very tight first half and neither team deserved to go in ahead.

United were spurred ahead in the second half having concede and began to create chances however the Twyford defence held strong. Ben Pratt was unlucky not to equalise for United when his shot grazed the outside of the post. United fell further behind to a Twyford counter attack when Rawlings was lobbed to make it 0-2.United continued to play good football but were unable to get any change out of a tight Twyford team. United were unlucky to concede two further late goals to end up losing 0-4.United will not play many better teams this season and if they continue to play with the commitment and effort they have showed they will not be far away from the top of the table.

Andy H and Andy R would like to wish all of the squad a Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year with many thanks for their great support in 2004.

Brixington United remained unbeaten going into this match and began to attack the Hammers goal from the kick off. It was not long before Marcus Barnett created an opening for Howard Smith to slot home the opening goal of the game. United then relaxed which allowed Hammers to attack and equalise, this spurred United into attack again and their flowing football soon created another opportunity which allowed Matt Plowman to score his first league goal for the club with a well taken slot into the bottom left corner of the goal, the relief showed on his face and he soon attacked the goal again and created and finished a fine shot into the top corner. A corner from Collinson created the next opportunity for Smith to add his second. United went in at half time 4-1 in the lead.

Shortly after the kick off Wynne scored the fifth when he converted his one on one with the keeper. Lowman became provider for the sixth allowing Harry Ody to tap in from close range. Another Collinson corner allowed Ody to score the seventh before Hammers replied to bring the score to 7-2.The scoring was finished off by the left foot of Collinson when he scored United’s eighth goal from the edge of the box. United must learn that even when they are in front by a high margin that they must be disciplined in their game and continue to play passing football within a structured team, against stronger opposition they may well have been punished as they became headstrong attacking the Hammers goal.

United Squad :-Rawlings, Philps, West, Lehuray, Pratt, Collinson, Sellick, Wynne, Barnett, Smith, Clifford-Harding, Plowman, Ody, Wardle, Clarke.

United faced probably their toughest contest of the season against the always competitive opponents of Bow United. United knew they would have to be on their best game in order to achieve a result away from home. It was Brixington who started the strongest and Marcus Barnett hit the post with their first attack. Brixington continued to push forward and it was from a wicked left foot corner from Collinson that Brixington took the lead when Liam West scored at the back post with a header. This goal sparked Bow into life and they soon equalised Brixington again rallied forward and continued to rain efforts on the Bow goal and it was not long before yet another wicked corner from Collinson allowed Oskar Wynne to tap in the second from close range. Yet again Bow pushed forward and in the end to end exchanges they soon equalised again 2-2 could Brixington respond again It was Bow who took the lead through a well worked equaliser but Brixington never led down and continued to push forward through the hard working midfield of Sellick, Wynne, Collinson and Clarke with the tireless running of Barnett and Plowman in attack. It was from yet another Collinson corner that Brixington equalised when a scramble in the box was converted by Daniel Clarke.

The score was poised at 3-3 going into the second half. The second half promised to be a thriller and it did not fail to entertain. It was Brixington again who worked with great commitment to continue attacking and it soon paid off when Marcus Barnett struck a great shot at the Bow goal only to see it rebound off of the cross bar but there he was on hand to stoke home the rebound Brixington again in the lead. With the quality in the Bow side we knew the game was far from over even when Barnett set off on a weaving individual run around five Bow players before slotting the ball into the top corner to put Brixington 5-3 ahead. Bow never said die and soon replied to bring the game to 5-4 with five minutes to go. With seconds to go Bow continued to push forward and soon an opening was created leaving a Bow attacker one on one with keeper Rawlings.Rawlings made himself big and produced an outstanding save to keep the score at 5-4.There were numerous candidates for the man of the match award which could easily have been shared by the whole team however at the end of the day it was rewarded to Collinson for his outstanding crossing and tremendous wing play which caused Bow countless problems.

United Squad: - Rawlings, Philps, West, Lehuray, Ody, Clarke, Sellick, Wynne, Collinson, Plowman, Barnett, Wardle, Clifford -Harding

United started attacking the ST Martins goal from the kick off but could not finish the chances they created. Plowman, Smith and Wynne all came close before at last Smith used his pace to become one on one with the keeper whom he promptly lobbed from the edge of the box to put United 1-0 ahead. With the United defence again looking solid led by the ever improving West it was just a case of how many chances United could convert. It was Smith who once again combined with Barnett to score his and Uniteds second. Just before half time the passing and moving of the United team allowed Wynne to add the third. After the break the work of Barnett and Smith created more chances and it was not long before Ody added the fourth shortly before Smith completed his hat trick. With United 5-0 ahead it looked like United would not stop scoring and they didn’t. Ody added the sixth. West was pushed forward to create a three man attack and he soon added the seventh with a good finish to the bottom corner before Ody completed his second half hat trick to make the score a well deserved 8-0.Their were many candidates for the man of the match award with Barnett, Wynne, Pratt, Ody, Collinson and West having outstanding games however it was awarded to Smith for his not stop running ,effort and his Hat trick.

United Squad: - Rawlings,Clarke, West, Philps, Pratt, Collinson, Wynne, Sellick, Barnett, Smith, Plowman, Clifford-Harding, Wardle and Ody

With this being United`s first game for 5 weeks it was always going to be could they pick up where they left off against the very strong opposition of Heavitree Dynamos.On a rainy windswept morning on Woodbury Common they answered the question with a positive yes.

United rarely looked like they were going to concede in the first half with the defence led by the central pair of Le Huray and West marshalled by keeper Rawlins again looking solid. Uniteds attacking play led from midfield by Barnett with Smith working constantly in attack again looked positive. It was from a corner that United finally opened the scoring when Wests rode forward from the back to knock in the ball at the back post. United continued to stride forward before they were unlocked at the back by the ever probing Dynamoes.

With the score poised at 1-1 the second half was always going to be a tense affair especially with Dynamoes being such a strong force. Despite United having to play into an ever increasing head wind they still continued to play attacking football. It was from a free kick on the edge of the Dynamos box that United re took the lead when a well struck Smith shot was deflected into the net. Again Dynamos pressed forward but with Rawkings making outstanding save after save it was a matter of United holding on and trying to break again the driving wind and rain. Dynamoes equalised soon after but still United never gave in. The game ended a draw with United taking heart that they will not face many better teams and the question on the supporters lips being how big a part did the wind and rain take in this result.

United Squad:- Rawlings,Clarke,Pratt,West,Le-Huray,Sellick,Barnett,Ody,Collinson,Clifford-Harding,Plowman,Philps,Wardle,Smith.

United started brightly against Vikings and it was only a matter of time before they opened the scoring. After snapping at many openings United finally settled down when Howard Smith opened the scoring with a well taken goal. United continued to play their flowing football but could not find the finish while at the other end of the pitch the well organised defence of West, Le-Huray, Ody and Pratt never looked troubled. Before half time United made it 2-0 when a well worked opening was finished by Oskar Wynne.

After the break United continued to push The Vikings backwards and with Marcus Barnett coming alive on the right wing the writing was on the cards. It was the pace and pin point finishing of Barnett which quickly saw him score his second half hat trick. With United leading 5-0 and the defence still looking as solid as a rock it was a question of how many would they score. Oskar Wynne added his second and this was quickly added to by a great solo effort by Harry Ody. The scoring was finally concluded by Howard Smith. United can take credit from the excellent manner in which they secured this victory by playing as a team unit and using the ball to play good flowing football from start to finish.

Squad:- Dean Rawlings,Harry Ody,Tom Sellick,Ben Pratt,Liam West,Jason Le Huray,Oskar Wynne,Jake Collinson,Marcus Barnett,Guy Clifford-Harding,Howard Smith,Liam Wardle and Blake Hull .

The opening game of the season produced a cracking match between these close rivals. United started brightly with the pace of Barnett and Smith causing Blues problems. United soon scored the opening goal when a well taken corner by Smith allowed Collinson to slot home the opening goal. Blues began to fight back but could not penetrate the United defence where centre forward turned to centre back Liam West soaked up anything thrown at him and looked the finished article. United continued to play flowing football and Smith added United`s second. Just before half time a momentary lapse of concentration allowed Blues to pull a goal back. The game was poised at 2-1 as the half time whistle was blown.

As the second half began United produced many chances but failed to convert them. The midfield of Collinson, Wynne, Sellick and Barnett continued to work well as a unit with the defence led by West looking solid behind them. United continued to show great commitment but could not finish off the chances they created. Blues began to force forward and a free kick was converted by Moody to level the score. United did not allow their heads to drop and continued to battle against a Blues midfield which seemed to grow stronger as the game continued. As the final whistle was blown the game ended in a draw. United should be proud of their excellent commitment and attitude and most of all the style in which they played football. I am sure both Brixington teams will have a good season.

United Squad:- Dean Rawlings,Daniel Clarke,Jason Le-Huray,Ben Pratt,Marcus Barnett,Tom Sellick,Oskar Wynne,Jake Collinson,Liam West,Howard Smith,Matt Plowman,Guy Clifford Harding,Liam Wardle,Harry Ody.

A tough group for United and one they never really got intoafter squandering leads in their first 2 games which resulted in a draw and a defeat. Next for United came eventual winners Twyford and although United played well Twyford were too strong and ran out 3-1 winners with Howard Smith scoring for United. United won their next game 3-0 against Central with a Liam West hat trick this proved to be United`s only vicytory of the day. United were then out muscled by a strong Stoke Hill side losing 0-2.United faced Heavitree in their last game but could never match their opponents and lost 0-4.A really tough day for United but as per the usual great team spirit they never allowed their heads to drop and for this they should be proud.

Squad: - Dean Rawlings,Thomas Philp,Daniel Clarke,Howard Smith,Liam Wardle,Liam West and Blake Hull .

United found themselves drawn in a hard group at this tournament but they did not allow this to concern them. They started brightly and beat Exwick 3-1 before drawing 0-0 against Woolwell another victory then followed against Crediton A when they won 3-1 their only loss of the tournament followed when they crashed 0-4 against Plympton ‘B’. United then recovered to draw their last group game 1-1 against a very strong Bow side. These results meant United qualified 2nd in their group which left them facing their rivals Brixington Blues in the semi final, United knew that they would need to play the same excellent football that they had in the group stages in order to reach the final. The semi final proved to be a pulsating game which was contested in the usual derby style, a neat through ball from Oskar Wynne finally made an opening for Liam West to slot the ball home allowing United to march onto the final against their group winners Bow. In the final ‘Utd’ started on the back foot with Dean Rawlings keeping United in the game with some great saves. Finally United began to find their form with Oskar Wynne again setting up Liam West to score yet again. West again added a second just before the break from a long shot which found its way under the keeper. After the break United continued to force the game forward but the score remained 2-0.At last after many semi final defeats United rewarded themselves with a tournament victory and a huge cheer followed as Tom Sellick lifted the trophy. This was a fantastic day for united and all the boys should be proud of their achievement.

Squad:- Dean Rawlings,Jason Le Huray,Tom Sellick,Oskar Wynne,Marcus Barnett,Liam West and Guy Clifford Harding

Although both the Brixington Blues and United teams progressed beyond the first phase of this tournament, neither reached the heights they reached last week at Crediton.

United started their Group 2 matches brightly against Buckland Athletic, and went ahead through Harry Ody. Although they conceded a late equaliser, this was a good start.

Next, United played their best football of the day and overwhelmed Beacon Knights 4-0 with goals from Liam Wardle (2), Dan Clarke and Marcus Barnett.

Although United battled hard, their next opponents, the eventual tournament winners, Elburton Villa A, beat them 3-0, all the goals coming late.

United then entered the last sixteen and played their second round match against Okehampton A. Despite looking tired, they still created enough openings to win, but were defeated 1-0 when Okehampton scored from their only chance of the match. A bit of a flat ending for United after performing well in the group.

The Blues got off to a faltering start, but came back strongly and went into the second round as winners of Group 1. First, they fought back after going behind against Heavitree Youth, with an equaliser from Jake Preece to draw the match 1-1.

Then they were beaten by AFC Plympton when they conceded the only goal of the match. Now they needed to fight back strongly to qualify for the next phase.

Sure enough, they responded superbly and beat Sidmouth Town A 1-0, with another goal from Preece.

Their final group match saw another 1-0 victory. This time their victims were Twyfords B and their scorer was Ryan Fraser-Roe.

The Blues then won their second round match 2-1, against Okehampton B. Fraser-Roe scored both their goals before Okehampton pulled one back.

Next, to their quarter final against Okehampton A. They secured their place in the semis when Preece scored the only goal of the match.

Just one step from the final, but alas a step too far. They failed to find their best form and were beaten 1-0 by Elburton Villa A, who went on to win their next match against Twyfords A and clinch the tournament.

United: - Dean Rawlings, Dan Clarke, Liam Wardle, Marcus Barnett, Harry Ody, Matt Plowman and Guy Clifford-Harding

Blues: - Billy Zberowski, Andy McInnes, Lewie Farrant, Jake Preece, Shane Fyles, Ryan Fraser-Roe and Dan Reynolds

Defensive lapses caused the combined Brixington Blues/United team to lose their opening League A match 0-2 against Seaton, who won all their four games in heading the group.

Brixington then beat Beacon Knights 3-0, thanks to goals from Marvin Weir (2) and Howard Smith.

The next match against Exmouth A was closely contested and ended in a goal-less draw.

Finally, Luke Moody scored the goal which beat Colyton B 1-0 and Brixington proceeded to the quarter finals as the second of the four qualifiers from their group.

Unfortunately, a defensive error gifted Sidmouth the only goal of an entertaining, closely contested match. Brixington never gave up and Moody was extremely unlucky not to find the target with at least one of several very close efforts. Goalie Dan Clarke made more great saves, as in some of the previous matches, and the team deserved to progress to the semis, but sadly it didn’t quite happen.

Team: - Dan Clarke, Thomas Philp, Oli Stowe, Oskar Wynne, Howard Smith, Luke Moody, Marvin Weir and Leigh Jones

The Brixington Blues and United teams were even more successful in this year’s tournament than they were last year. They totally dominated the day, both proceeded to the quarter finals as winners of their groups and both advanced beyond the semis to make the final an all-Brixington affair.

The Blues played well and dominated their opening Group 1 match against Westexe, but only drew 0-0.

Next, they produced a battling display to beat Okehampton B by a single goal, scored by Ben Walker.

A great performance saw the Blues beat Crediton A 1-0, with Jacob Bellamy the scorer.

Finally, they totally outplayed Bow and won 4-0 with a hat trick from Joe Harnick and another goal from Walker .

The Blues started their quarter final slowly, but improved to win well against Crediton B, the only goal being scored by Shane Fyles.

The semi final saw a brilliant performance from the Blues, playing and beating Bow again, this time 2-0. Bellamy and Harnick were the scorers.

Meanwhile, United started their Group 2 matches with a 2-0 victory over Crediton B, with goals from Ben Pratt and Liam West.

Heavitree, their next opponents, were beaten 1-0 as Matt Plowman scored his first goal for United.

United’s group matches ended with a 2-1 win against Twyford, the goals coming from Marcus Barnett and West.

West scored both the goals in United’s 2-0 quarter final victory over Westexe.

United then won a tense semi final which was 0-0 after extra time, 5-4 on penalties, against a good Crediton side.

The match of the day then took place as the two Brixington teams locked horns in a final played in great spirit. Harnick opened the scoring for the Blues, but Guy Clifford-Harding equalised for United. Plenty of thrills and spills were to follow, but neither side could end the deadlock and it was left to penalties to decide the tournament. The Blues then triumphed by the three goals scored by Fyles, Bellamy and Lewie Farrant to the one goal scored by United’s West.

United were fantastic today, but ended up congratulating Blues on winning the tournament.

Congratulations go to all the players on both sides and the two managers, Dave Preece of Blues and Andy Rawlings of United, together with both sets of parents, for a wonderful day for the Brixington Club.

Blues: - Billy Zberowski, Andy McInnes, Jacob Bellamy, Lewie Farrant, Jake Preece, Joe Harnick, Shane Fyles and Ben Walker

United: - Dean Rawlings, Jason Lehuray, Ben Pratt, Marcus Barnett, Jake Collinson, Liam West, Matt Plowman and Guy Clifford-Harding

Brixington Blues’ woes began even before the tournament started when goalkeeper Billy Zberowski and family were held up at Cardiff Airport , on returning from their half-term holiday. They then got off to the worst possible start by losing their first match 2-0, against Stoke Hill, this year’s bogey team and the eventual Group C winners.

Things didn’t improve much as the Blues took on Woolwell, surrendered a 1-0 lead (scored by Jake Preece), then fell behind and had to rely on Joe Harnick’s equaliser to rescue a draw.

The third game again saw the Blues open the scoring with another Joe Harnick goal. This time, however, they conceded the whole match as Crediton ‘B’ went on to win 2-1.

Now the Blues desperately needed to pull out all the stops and beat the weakest team in the group, Weston St John ‘A’, convincingly. Goals from Jacob Bellamy (2), Luke Moody (2), Jake Preece and Joe Harnick earned the 6-0 victory which ensured that they did so.

Another big result was needed in their final group match and they managed to achieve it. This time the Blues played with much more commitment, their passing and tackling were both much sharper, and their 0-0 draw with Charlestown was well-deserved. Jacob Bellamy, standing in for absent goalkeeper Billy Zberowski, played superbly and made several outstanding saves.

The Blues had progressed beyond the group stage to the last 16 by the narrowest of margins. They had scored 9 goals (1 more than Crediton ‘B’) and their goal difference was + 3 (also 1 better than Crediton’s).

Unfortunately, however, only qualifying as the last team in their group meant that they had to meet the Group D winners, Portishead, one of the strongest sides in the tournament, in their next match. The Blues were duly beaten 5-0 and their interest in the tournament was ended.

Blues: - Jacob Bellamy, Lewie Farrant, Dan Reynolds, Jake Preece, Oli Stowe, Joe Harnick, Shane Fyles and Luke Moody