Match reports Under 12 Boys 2006/7 season

15/4/07 Guildford Saints 6-2 Ottershaw Boys

Scorers; Richards 2, Price, Turner, Dodd, Amoruso

In a match that would decide if the Saints would be promoted the boys turned in a great performance in the midday heat to not only clinch Premier Division football next season but to secure a very deserved Division One Championship!

Straight from the kick off Saints played some lovely football that culminated in Dan Price laying the ball off for captain Harry Dodd to blast the ball high into the Ottershaw goal. Even with the Saints playing attractive football Ottershaw managed to equalise when a corner was not dealt with properly and a header looped over keeper Alex Oldland. However, it wasn't long before the second Saints goal arrived. A Harry Dodd corner caused confusion in the Ottershaw penalty area and Ben Turner forced in his first goal of the season. With the Saints pressing hard and playing one touch football uphill the third goal eventually arrived when Tom Richards coolly dispatched a shot into the back of the Ottershaw net.

Half time and 3-1 up - cruising towards promotion - but the Saints wanted the last home game of the season to be a proper celebration and a second Tom Richards goal was greeted with much relief and belief that we had finally clinched it! Still Saints stormed forward though and with the ball pinging around Ottershaw's area it was Dan Price who eventually sent it right back past the keeper for the fifth. With the clock ticking down Julian Amoruso scored a well taken sixth and this emphatic lead saw the introduction of substitutes Jack Craig and Tom Oldland on to play the last ten minutes. Both sides now began to look like they were toiling in the heat but right on the final whistle another Ottershaw corner was not cleared properly and their forward dispatched a shot in off the post.

Final whistle and the Saints had secured promotion to the Premier division. With other results going their way Saints were also able to celebrate the Division One title – a fantastic achievement by the squad especially considering the wonderful and attractive football they have managed to play all season!

Summary – a great day for the boys with all their hard work finally providing the rewards. I thought today everyone had a great game especially Ben and Christian who covered the loss of Martin brilliantly. Ross had his usually steady game and his distribution as good as ever. The midfield of Harry Dodd, Harry Edwards, Dan Price, Nathan Barnes and Julien Amoruso turned in a great display of hard work, subtlety and class. Tom Richards as usual worked hard as the lone striker and proved with his two superbly taken goals what a good little striker he is. Even Jack and Tom contributed, when they both came on, to an all round great team effort! However, I thought that Scott Gotham, playing out of position at right back, was man of the match today - KO

Man of the Match: Scott Gotham - out of position, but a truly disciplined display to keep our right secure. Linked up when the opportunity presented and tackled back strongly.

Improving Player: Nathan Barnes - another fine display as the holding midfield player with some lovely passing.

1/4/07 Guildford Saints 3-1 Bisley Sports

Scorers; Amoruso 2, Richards

Having played on Saturday, this was always going to be a tough game against a well organised Bisley side that plays quality football. But having expected a tired reaction to Saturdays game, the Saints did quite the opposite! From the first whistle Saints tore at Bisley and created a number of chances which unfortunately went begging. The standard of football from both sides led to a fabulous game for those on the sidelines, but it was the Saints who were creating all the openings and dominating possession which, due to poor finishing and good goalkeeping from the Bisley keeper, kept the score at 0-0. However a break through came after twenty minutes when a left wing corner was not cleared by the Bisley defence and the ball was quickly switched to the right instead. Harry Edwards then whipped in a teasing cross which Julian headed home.

Having got there noses in front Saints went looking for more but again were thwarted by the Bisley keeper and his defenders. There were only a couple of chances created by Bisley but these were comfortably dealt with by the Saints defence. At half time Saints led 1-0 but this clearly was never going to be enough of a lead.

The second half saw Bisley raise their game and come at Saints with purpose and determination, even though Saints were now kicking down hill. Suddenly they were first to the ball and winning the fifty-fifties. With Saints upfield for a corner, Bisley broke quickly and a poor defensive header allowed a Bisley forward to bear down on goal and coolly slot past keeper Alex Oldland. Bisley now had the upper hand and the Saints were only kept in the game when, from a goal mouth scramble, a Bisley forward hit his shot hard and true - how Alex saved the shot defies belief!! From his kick though Saints stormed up field and Julian fired home to put Saints 2-1 up. Saints now regained control of the game and Julian saw another lob come back off the post. Another attack, as the game was drawing to a close, saw Julian cross from the left to Scott Gotham who played a sublime ball through to Tom Richards and he confidently put the game beyond Bisley.

Summary – this was a great game of football between two very good sides who know how to play well and compete. It is always good to play against players who can play at a similar standard and I for one really enjoyed it. On balance this was a deserved win for the Saints but a lot of credit must go to Bisley for the way the game was played and it would be a shame if they get nothing out of their season - KO

Man of the Match: Julian Amoruso - two great finishes coupled with a lot of hard work tracking back

Improving Player: Alex Oldland - a fantastic save, like last week, to keep Saints in the game

31/3/07 Staines Lammas 0-5 Guildford Saints

Scorers; Price 2, Barnes. Gotham, Amoruso

The Saints travelled to Staines for the return fixture and came against a very determined Staines team looking to gain revenge for last weeks defeat. The first twenty minutes saw a very lacklustre display from the Saints for which a lot of credit must go to Staines who never let a Saints player get time on the ball. Also the Saints players kept getting caught by the Staines offside trap but, just as the half was looking like ending as a no score draw, Dan Price followed in a shot from Tom Richards and scored after the keeper spilled the ball. Saints then played some lovely football which saw Scott Gotham score his second goal in two games with a neat finish. Nathan Barnes then capped a fine display with a smooth finish to give the Saints a third goal before half time.

A couple of changes were made in the second half with an eye on Sundays match against Bisley, which saw Harry Edwards and Christian Shaw take their places in the line up. The second half saw a much improved display with a number of chances being created but spurned. Midway through the half though Dan Price skipped through a couple of tackles and placed the ball wide of the Staines keeper for 4-0. Staines broke through on a couple of occasions but these were comfortably dealt with by the normal resolute defending of Ben Turner, Martin Peters, Ross Pearn and keeper Alex Oldland. Late in the game a slight change in swapping Julian and Scott paid instant dividends with Julian sprinting through the heart of the Staines defence to score. Even then further chances went begging and Saints even had a penalty saved at the end of the game.

Summary – a bit of a disjointed display today, but three more points gained on the run in for the title. A little more concentration in front of goal would do the goal difference a world of good, but non the less an efficient display.

Man of the Match: Nathan Barnes

Improving Player: Dan Price

25/3/07 Guildford Saints 8-0 Staines Lammas

Scorers; Richards 2, Barnes 3, Gotham, Edwards, Amoruso

Another winning result as Saints close in on the Division One title saw Saints comfortably beat a tough Staines side. The opening exchanges were few and far between as Saints were caught offside a number of occasions. Staines looked like the were going to frustrate Saints but a Tom Richards goal settled the nerves and Saints began to relax into their normal passing football. A second Richards towards the end of the first half led to a bit of an onslaught which saw a number of good chances for the Saints go begging. With Harry Edwards and Julian Amoruso providing width, the Saints should have scored more than the two by half time and Staines rarely troubled the Saints defence of Shaw, Peters, Turner and Pearn who, again, turned in a solid performance.

With Scott Gotham and Oliver Tilley replacing Edwards and Shaw the second half saw Saints have a purple patch from the kick off. Neat one touch football sent an attack down the left and Nathan Barnes ghosted in at the far post to convert. A minute later and another attack, involving Ross Pearn, down the left saw the ball crossed for Scott Gotham to volley, over his shoulder, into the net with his first touch of the match. Thirty seconds later another attack and another Barnes finish! With the Saints now in full flow Barnes completed his hat trick a minute later. Four goals in four minutes had taken the game beyond Staines although they did mount a spirited defence and stemmed any further goals until the later stages of the game when Harry Edwards, back on for Harry Dodd, slotted in at the far post after a brilliant run from Ross Pearn. The Saints still had one goal left when Julian Amouroso ran on to a through ball and converted through the keepers legs. With the clock ticking down Saints relaxed a bit too much and gave away a penalty when keeper Alex Oldland brought down a Staines forward. However, from the resulting spot kick, Alex redeemed himself with an outstanding flying save to his right which saw him get two strong hands to push the ball over the bar.

Summary – a brilliant display. particularly at the start of the second half, with football of a really high standard. Effort was well rewarded by the result and four more wins will see a well deserved title delivered!!

Man of the Match: Nathan Barnes – a great hat trick and a good performance in the middle of midfield.

Improving Player: Ross Pearn - excellent defending and some great skill when attacking down the left.

 

18/3/07 Ottershaw Boys 0-2 Guildford Saints

Scorers: Richards, Peters

A windy Mothering Sunday afternoon saw Saints away to Ottershaw. With rain and sleet in the air Saints took the game right to Ottershaw from the start and created a number chances without converting. Ottershaw were content to defend for the first half as the wind was behind the Saints, but it was pleasing to see our neat football still being played. The Saint's defence was rarely troubled which was down to the blustery conditions and some astute defending by Pearn, Shaw, Peters and an excellent performance by the returning Ben Turner.

After 20 mins Tom Richards put the Saints in front with a very well taken strike over the keeper’s head. The Saints continued to press for the remainder of the half but could not find the second goal and Ottershaw failed to have a strike on goal for the whole half!

The second half was always going to be a bit more difficult playing against the wind but Saints were still competing and playing football. Scott Gotham came on and injected a little more pace in the middle of the midfield but still the Saints chances were not converted. Ottershaw eventually started to come into the game although their long balls were either dealt with by Peters and Turner or just ran through to the Saints keeper. Ottershaw were competing more but were still trying to play on the counter as at one time they had five defenders strung across the halfway line marking just one Saints player. So by defending deeper Saints were able to deal with the attempted long ball of which only one forced keeper Alex Oldland into a save.

With time ticking down to full time Saints were awarded a free kick midway into Ottershaw's half which Martin Peters drove into the roof of the net. Another three points banked in the chase for the title!!

Summary – an excellent first half full of movement and great defending. Second half a bit sloppy in the middle but came on strong at the end. I would personally like to say sorry to all the mothers of the players for the afternoon kick-off and thank you for your support - KO

Man of the Match: Ben Turner - a strong performance in defence after returning from injury

Improving Player: Christian Shaw - another impressive display at right back.

 

11/3/07 Staines Town 3 - 0 Guildford Saints

Missing a few players and not having had a match for a few weeks Saints looked a bit rusty at the start. The pitch was in awful condition and was not conducive to good football. Staines relied on their physical abilities at the start but the Saints defence stood firm and we didn't look that bothered by the Staines attack. However midway thorough the first half a very bad refereeing decision saw a penalty awarded against Saints. Although keeper James Chadwick dived the right way the shot was too powerful. A speculative shot from outside the box flew in for Staines second goal and the first half ended there.

The second half saw the Saints come into the game we couldn't really get a shot on target. The pitch really didn't suit passing football and right at the end of the game Staines scored their third.

This really was a warm up for the league run in and we will need every player to be available to secure the title.

Man of the Match; Alex Mattock

Improving Player; Jams Chadwick

 

18/2/07 Guildford Saints 6-1 Guildford City Pumas

Scorers: Edwards 3, Richards 2, Dodd

This was a vital match for the Saints in their quest for the title against rivals Guildford City. With the squad short of three key players Harry Edwards and Tom Oldland were drafted in from the Blues to supplement the numbers. City started the game at a frantic pace while the Saints looked a little sluggish and it was no surprise when City took the lead after two minutes with a wicked shot which keeper Alex Oldland could only get a hand to. Stung into action the Saints started to assert control but a number of raids unfortunately came to nothing. Midway through the half Tom Richards did score to level the game up at one all. Harry Edwards then hit the post before another Richards run was ended by a foul inside the area. However the City keeper saved the penalty and both sides went into half time all square.

With a reminder of what was at stake the Saints stormed into the second half scoring two goals in quick succession from Richards and Edwards. The Saints defence of Peters, Mattock, Shaw and Pearn halted all City's raids and such was their domination of the City forwards that Ross Pearn was often able to link up with the flying Ollie Tilley down the left producing numerous attacks. With Nathan Barnes prowling the central midfield Saints looked like scoring with every attack. Saints fourth goal was a combination of short passes which ended with a wicked Harry Dodd shot which flew into the bottom corner. Two more goals sealed the match as Saints picked apart City who, despite all their hard work, could do little to stem the tide. Harry Edwards and Dan Price combined well for Edwards to net his second and the Saints fifth. With time running down Harry Edwards completed his hat trick with a well taken goal.

The final minutes saw Saints players picking up knocks which allowed Tom Oldland to play the final few minutes as the sheer effort of all their hard work began to tell on the players.

Summary – the whole squad to a man played with the right temperament, attitude and teamwork. Every player deserves a huge pat on the back for the sheer amount of hard work and the fact that we still played the attractive football that we are renowned for. This match was a giant step towards the league title and if we play like this for the remaining games then the boys will have deserved every plaudit. Great game lads!

Man of the Match: The whole team!

Improving Player: The whole team!

 

4/2/07 Badshot Lea 0-2 Guildford Saints

Scorers; Richards, Amoruso

Having lost three players the squad was a little depleted this week, and with other players playing out of position this was always going to be a hard game. Usual keeper Alex Oldland was given a start in midfield, the first time in nearly a year, and James Chadwick and James Busby stepped up from the Blues.

It was a cold frosty morning and the Saints took their time to get going and Badshot played with plenty of aggression and never gave the Saints time on the ball. The first half was something of a stale mate with the game being played in the midfield which on balance was shaded by the very hard working Badshot team. The Saints were lucky not to go one behind midway through the half but James Chadwick stormed off his line to save at the attackers feet, but the ball rebounded to another forward and only the bar saved the Saints. This passage of play seemed to wake the Saints up and both Richards and Amoruso just failed to convert chances at the other end. The defence now began to get control of the opposing forwards with Alex Mattock and Christian Shaw the pick of the bunch. Half time arrived with score at 0-0.

A tough half time team talk about shifting the ball quicker nearly paid off straight from the kick off when a great through ball from Barnes sent Richards through only to be denied by a last ditch tackle. With Scott Gotham on the right and Julian Amoruso on the left working hard the Saints began to look a little like themselves and soon took the lead with a lovely passage of football between Martin Peters and Nathan Barnes playing in Tom Richards who clinically finished.

It wasn't long before the Saints went two up with Amoruso finishing another fine move. James Busby then made his debut and was very energetic on the right making sure that Oliver Tilley and himself kept the right tight. The Saints went looking for more goals and a third was disallowed for offside after a Harry Dodd through ball to Nathan. With the clock ticking down Badshot mounted one last attack and a rocket of a shot was heading for the net before James Chadwick coolly plucked it from the air.

Summary – A shift in positions and players missing always unsettles a side but all the players played with a lot patience and spirit. This was a tough match not only for the conditions but also because a hard working organised side gave us very little time to play. If we keep playing our football we will get the results.

Man of the Match: Alex Mattock - a faultless display of defending and distribution

 

Improving Player: Christian Shaw - out of position at left back but again a calm solid performance worthy of an MOM award but for Alex’s performance

 

28/1/07 Guildford Saints 2-0 Rushmoor Saints

Scorers: Richards, Barnes

This match represented a chance to pull further clear of one of our rivals and Saints did not disappoint. To a man this was a very polished performance and such was the Saints domination in the first half our keeper never touched the ball or had to take a goal kick. The passing was crisp and the movement excellent as we attacked down both flanks with Julien and Scott both putting in fine performances. It was therefore a surprise that the lead was not established before the 20th minute. Some lovely one touch football led to a through pass to Tom Richards who slotted home and we didn't have to wait long for the second when Nathan was played in and he slotted home. Even when Rushmoor tried to break our defence of Peters, Turner, Shaw and Pearn shut the door and started the attacks. Even the midfield was working hard to shut down play and start counter attacks and a lot of credit has to go Dan Price, Harry Dodd, Julien Amoruso and Nathan Barnes who maintained a constant shape.

At half time two changes saw Oliver Tilley and Alex Mattock come on for Barnes and Gotham and right from the start they both fitted seamlessly to the play and Alex Mattock played excellently. Although chances were still created Saints just could not find their way through a well organised Rushmoor defence. Both sides played good football and Rushmoor tried to get back into the match but never really troubled our keeper who really had only one shot to save. Saints played out time to confirm a vital three points to extend the cushion on Rushmoor and record a great win.

Summary – a good performance with plenty of movement and crisp passing. If we could just convert a few more chances we would look a more rounded side.

Man of the Match: Alex Mattock

Improving Player: Tom Richards

 

21/1/07 Corinthian Casuals 2-1 Guildford Saints (aet)

Scorer; Barnes

The Saints County Cup run came to a halt against a side who match the Saints in every department. The Saints didn't start the match particularly well and went behind after five minutes from a free kick which rattled around the box before being stabbed home. The Saints raised their game but were presented with very few chances and the two that did come their way were missed. The rest of the half was fought in the midfield and neither side could manufacture a shot on goal.

The second half saw the Saints take the game to the Casuals and the for the most part the play was in the oppositions half. Again the Saints didn't take their chances until midway through the half when Nathan Barnes finished at the back post from a Tom Richards cross. Saints went looking for the winner and right at the death a great chance went begging sending the match into extra time.

The first half of extra time saw Casuals win a free kick just outside the area and the ball was placed into the top corner. Saints now had very little time in which to save the game, and the boys must be commended for the work ethic and determination.

The second period saw the Saints trying to get that elusive second goal but they left themselves open to the counter and only a flying slide tackle from keeper Alex Oldland kept the score down. With time running out the Saints just could not find a way through and the cup run came to a halt.

Summary -  a hard fought game between two sides of equal ability with the Saints shading possession. The play didn't have its normal flow but the hard work and team work was much in evidence. Although the result was a disappointment the boys should be proud of this performance and their cup run.

Man of the Match: Christian Shaw - sound defending (earning a bloody nose in the process!!)

Improving Player: Alex Oldland - couple of good saves with the slide tackle the pick of the bunch

14/1/07 Guildford FC 2000 0 – 6 Guildford Saints

Scorers; Price 2, Pearn, Gotham, Richards, Oldland A

The Saints were amongst the goals again on a very heavy pitch and against determined opposition. The Saints though started strongly and got stronger as the half went on. The emphasis was to keep playing football but quicker on the sticky pitch and this bore fruit when Amoruso was sent clear by a Price through ball but he only managed to pull the shot wide. The first goal soon arrived though when Scott Gotham converted a cross with a cool finish. Saints soon stretched the lead to three when Dan Price shot home and then converted a free kick with a great shot into the top corner. The Saints keeper again did not touch the ball in this first half and the credit must go to the back four of Shaw, Peters, Turner and Pearn who are becoming a very solid unit. A lot of credit must also go to Nathan Barnes who once again shone in the holding midfield role.

The second half began with Saints laying siege to the opposition goal although they did try to walk the ball in and more thought could have led to a lot more goals. However with three changes - Tilley for Shaw, Mattock for Barnes and Edwards for Gotham - the Saints soon went four up when a Harry Edwards cross was headed clear only for Ross Pearn to dispatch an excellent left footer into the roof of the net from outside the area. The game awaited a Richards goal which Tom duly supplied with his customary aplomb. With time running out the Saints were awarded a penalty when Tom Richards was brought down in the area. The crowd bayed for goal keeper Alex Oldland to take it and – once manager Kevin Oldland had been presuaded! - he put away an excellently taken spot kick to complete Saints third 6-0 victory in a row.

Summary - another six goal haul and another clean sheet and clearly everyone is enjoying their football. The boys have the right attitude, the right amount of aggression and best of all are playing as a team.

Man of the Match: Ross Pearn - great defending and a great finish!

Improving Player: Nathan Barnes – another disciplined display

 

7/1/07 Guildford Saints 6-0 Farnham Town Clarets

Scorers; Amoruso2, Barnes 2, Richards, Dodd

Saints carried on where they left off last year with another six goal haul against the league leaders. This was always going to be a “revenge” match after the drubbing we suffered at Farnham earlier in the season and, although Farnham only brought eleven players the Saints tore into them right from the start and got their reward as early as the 5th minute when Julien Amoruso coolly slotted home after some neat interchanges.

Saints then squandered numerous chances before Amoruso slotted home the second. In truth it should have been the fourth or fifth but against Farnham this was a great start. Just before half time Farnham lost a player to injury and went down to ten players.

With Saints kicking down hill in the second half it wasn't long before Tom Richards scored his customary goal to put the Saints three up. Farnham played their part in the game but the Saints defence stood firm with fine displays from Martin Peters, Ben Turner, Ross Pearn and Christian Shaw.

Nathan Barnes capped a fine man of the match performance  with two excellently taken goals. But the best goal of the day was saved for last when the Saints were awarded an indirect free kick for a pass back. Tom Richards lifted the ball off the ground for Harry Dodd to volley a left footer into the top corner.

This was a great performance from the lads to take three points off the league leaders in such convincing style!

Man of the Match: Nathan Barnes

Improving Player: Ben Turner

 

17/12/06 Guildford Saints 6-0 Woking Town

Scorers: Dodd 2, Gotham, Amoruso, Tilley, Richards

The Saints started this SPL Senior Cup match were they left off from last weeks County Cup game. Again playing 4-5-1 the Saints dominated the opening exchanges and deservedly went in front from another Harry Dodd thunderbolt from outside the box. The Saints were playing so well that Woking never ventured into the Saints half until well after twenty minutes by which they were 3-0 down with Scott Gotham poaching the second and Julien Amoruso the third with a clinical finish. In truth it should have been five so was the dominance of the Saints midfield with another fine display from Alex Mattock and Dan Price.

The second half went pretty much the same as the first but with Nathan Barnes taking over from Alex Mattock and again proving his versatility. Woking tried to make a game of it but the defensive unit of Ben Turner, Martin Peters, Ross Pearn and  Christian Shaw gave goal keeper Alex Oldland very little to do. The Saints went four up when Oliver Tilley blasted home and it was not long before another superb Harry Dodd finish made it five. With the game drawing to a close Tom Richards claimed his customarily goal with a fine solo run and finish.

To sum up having seen the formation for the first time it seems that we have found a system that suits every player in the squad and the style of football. If the boys keep this up there is no telling what rewards they will get at the end of the season.

Summary – having seen the formation for the first time it seems that we have found a system that suits every player in the squad and the style of football. If the boys keep this up there is no telling what rewards they will get at the end of the season.

Man of the Match: Harry Dodd – a captains performance capped with two fine goals. Simply class.

Improving Player: Ben Turner - gets stronger with each game and seems to have a great understanding with his defensive partner Martin Peters. A solid duo.

 

Guildford Saints 6-2 Tonbridge Angels Youth

Scorers; Richards 3, Price 2, Dodd

With Kevin laid up, victim of a trapped nerve in his back, Simon took charge of the Saints for this County Cup 4th Round fixture on Sunday. However, even from his sick bed, Kevin’s influence still played a major part in this victory as the team lined up in a new 4-5-1 formation. They quickly adapted to the change of tactics with Dan Price, Julien and Harry Edwards all enthusiastically supporting lone striker Tom Richards as the Saints dominated right from the first whistle. Tonbridge Angels were an organised side but the Saints players, to a man, matched them all over the park and the Saints were rewarded for their efforts with the first goal from Dan Price – the conclusion of some good work on the left from Julien Amuroso. Although Tonbridge equalised after a poor goalkeeping clearance, the Saints led 3-1 at half time with Tom Richards and Dan Price, with his second, giving the scoreline a fairer look. In the second half substitute Nathan Barnes took his place in midfield and was quickly the catalyst for Saints fourth goal with a great through ball to Tom Richards. Richards completed his hat trick for the teams fifth. A Tonbridge penalty gave the visitors  a small glimmer of hope but skipper Harry Dodd quickly snuffed that out with a fantastic finish from the edge of the area minutes from the end.

Summary – the Saints were at their excellent best today and when we play like this we’re one of the best footballing sides around. The players loved the freedom that the new formation gave them in attack and when defending we looked very solid particularly in the centre of the pitch. We can go all the way in the County Cup this year – the draw has been very kind to us – but we need to play with this determination and enthusiasm in every game. Well done to all the players today. SC   

Man of the Match: Dan Price – absolute class today. Huge effort and very positive attitude.

Improving Player: Nathan Barnes – a super sub performance from a very versatile player.

 

26/11/06 Guildford Saints 3-0 Potley Strikers

Scorers; Richards 2, Edwards

Although this was a winning return to action for the Saints after having no matches in the past two weeks, the free flowing football was still missing. Potley proved to be a difficult team to break down and due to the lack of the Saints crisp passing the game was hard work. Saying that though there were not many chances for either side in the first half and Ben Turner gave an impressive display in his home debut.

After half time Saints seemed to start believing in themselves more and from a very tight angle Tom Richards blasted the ball high into the net. Almost straight from the kick off the Saints doubled their lead when the excellent Alex Mattock halted an attack and, with a super ball, set Harry Edwards away down the right wing. Harry, without breaking his stride, dispatched a shot high into the net. The third goal from Tom Richards gave a comfortable score line to an otherwise uncomfortable game

Man of the Match: Alex Mattock – calm, assured defending, tigerish tackling and superb distribution

Improving Player: Alex Oldland - always encouraging from the back and a superb save at the near post to keep a clean sheet

5/11/06 Farnham Town Clarets 7 – 2 Guildford Saints

Scorers: Richards Amoruso

Saints came crashing back down to earth this week with a lacklustre display that saw them lose this top of the table clash. Saints went behind after a couple of minutes but, in the only display of competitive football in the game, stormed back to lead 2-1 with goals from Richards and Amoruso. Farnham then drew level and could have stormed out of sight except for a couple of point blank saves from keeper Alex Oldland. Farnham stepped up their play and Saints didn't respond. Another Farnham goal just before half time gave them a 3-2 lead at the interval.

Even with a couple of substitutions and with Ben Turner making his debut, the Saints never looked like getting back into the match except for two breakaways which were not converted. Farnham scored another four goals in the second half and thoroughly deserved the final score line as they outplayed and outfought the Saints.

This was a game to forget for Saints and we need to regroup and play the football we know we are capable of in next weeks County Cup game.

Man of the Match; Tom Richards

Improving Player; Alex Oldland

 

29/10/06 Bisley Sports 1-2 Guildford Saints

Scorers; Richards 2

Returning to action after a two week break Saints started this top of the table clash in fine style. The Saints usual free flowing football soon started paying off with two early chances falling to Saints which were not taken. Bisley had isolated breakaways and one shot from outside of the box was well tipped over the bar by Alex Oldland.

After 20 minutes Saints took a deserved lead after some neat interchanges saw Ollie Tilley square the ball across the box for Tom Richards to dispatch into the Bisley net. Saints were well on top by now and a second goal followed shortly afterwards when a save by Alex Oldland fell to Alex Mattock who played a first time pass to debutant Harry Edwards. His clinical pass picked out Tom Richards who calmly scored his second. A fine individual run by Richards at the end of the half saw penalty claims turned away after the young striker was brought down in the box. The Saints midfield were pulling all the strings through Harry Dodd and Dan Price and it was shame that the half ended before the hard work was rewarded by a third goal.

Bisley started putting on the pressure in the second half but the Saints defence stood firm with all four -  Alex Mattock, Ross Pearn, Martin Peters and Christian Shaw - putting in excellent performances. Bisley did pull a goal back in the middle of the half when their forward juggled the ball and hit a high looping shot which sailed over the stranded Saints keeper.

Despite the set back Saints continued to break with speed and should have converted through Julian, Ollie and Tom. With five minutes left Tom Richards tore through Bisley's defence yet again and a third goal looked certain only for his shot to shave the outside of the post. Late in the game a second penalty claim was turned down after a Bisley defender appeared to punch the ball clear. In the final moments of the match Saints withstood sustained Bisley pressure to record a fantastic win over the league leaders.

Special mention must be made for Scott Gotham who remained at the game in case he was needed even though he was under the weather with sickness. Get better soon Scott.

Man of the Match: Tom Richards – two excellent strikes

Improving Player: Harry Edwards – excellent debut and great pass to set up the winner

8/10/06 Guildford City Pumas 2-3 Guildford Saints

Scorers; Richards, Gotham, Peters

The first half was a scrappy affair with neither side making any clear cut chances in the first 20 minutes although City had a goal ruled out when the ball was kicked out of keeper Alex Oldland’s hands after a double save. The Saints looked very sluggish and their normal passing game seemed to have deserted them. This game was a battle with neither side giving the other time on the ball or space to work in.

Towards the end of the half Saints created two openings which were not taken and the score remained at 0-0 as the half finished.

City started the second half much the stronger but Saints defence stood firm with Christian Shaw, Ross Pearn and Martin Peters outstanding. Half way through the second half Saints opened the scoring when Tom Richards was sent through on goal which he duly dispatched with a shot over the keeper. The lead did not last long though as a speculative City shot went through Alex Oldland's legs. The Saints however reclaimed the lead when a Richards cross was excellently headed in by Scott Gotham for his first of the season. City's second was controversial but was neatly put away.

With the bit between their teeth after City's equaliser Saints forced play up field and from the resulting corner Peters headed home with aplomb. Saints withstood the last attacks of City pressure and ran out winners in a hotly contested and scrappy derby.

Man of the Match: Martin Peters (brilliant defending and superb goal)

Improving Player: Christian Shaw (great defending with calm assurance)

 

1/10/06 Guildford Saints 7-0 Horley Town

Scorers; Richards 3, Price, Pearn, Tilley, Dodd

In the driving rain Saints produced a forceful display to record an emphatic win in the second round of the Surrey County Cup. Again the Saints produced neat interchange football to command the match from start to finish and allowed keeper Alex Oldland to record his first clean sheet of the season.

Saints were 3-0 up at the break with Goals from Richards, Dodds and Price, although it well have been six, with efforts going wide and one with Martin Peters hitting the bar with a header from a Dan Price corner.

Playing uphill in the second half Saints found that Horley had raised their game and the flourish of four goals came in the last 15 mins with goals coming from Pearn,Tilley and Richards 2. Although only troubled occasionally the Saints defence easily coped with Horley front line and once again the defence must be praised for its defending. The midfield again provided the ammunition for the forwards and with more conviction the score could have gone into double figures.

Horley were not a bad side but with Saints playing such attractive football not many sides will be able to live with them.

Man of the Match: Tom Richards

Improving Player: Ross Pearn

24/9/06 Guildford Saints 8-2 Badshot Lea

 Scorers; Barnes, Richards, Amorouso, Dodd, Peters, Price 2, Pearn

The Saints started the game where they left off last week with neat interchanges being played all over the pitch and stormed into a 3-0 score line within 15 mins. Highlights included Alex Mattock strolling out of defence, playing a one-two with Dan Price and then a perfect through ball for Tom Richards to score.

Badshot then had a short patch of play which saw them quickly claw two goals back, the first a really smart goal which flash past keeper Alex Oldland. The Saints then scored two more before the break and led 5-2 at half time.

The second half saw the Saints playing down hill and only some smart goalkeeping from the Badshot keeper kept the score from going into double figures. Eventually however the Saints did score three more goals, the best coming from Martin Peters who controlled a corner on his thigh before volleying the ball high into the net. The defence other than conceding the two goals put in a excellent display and credit must go to Christian Shaw, Martin Peters, Alex Mattock and Tom Oldland.

 Man of the Match: Martin Peters

 Improving Player: Alex Mattock

17/9/06 Rushmoor Saints 3 – 5 Guildford Saints

After last weeks disappointing result Saints returned to winning ways with a 5-3 victory over Rushmoor.

The victory was made all the more sweeter by the way the game was played. The passing both long and short had returned, and the movement was amongst the best the boys have ever given. Saints opened the scoring through Nathan Barnes who ran aggressively into the area after a fine through ball and finished after the keeper got a hand to the ball.

With the Saints playing at a high tempo it wasn't long before Oliver Tilley finished a fine move to put the Saints two up. After conceding a free kick Rushmoor pulled a scrappy goal back. Keeper Alex Oldland soon made a fine save when faced with a one on one with a Rushmoor forward to keep Saints ahead. Saints soon got their heads back up and powered ahead by another two goals scored by Julian Amoruso, both goals taken with aplomb.

The second half saw Rushmoor raise their game and come at the Saints with pace and purpose and Rushmoor narrowed the gap with a scrambled second goal. The Saints continued to create chances but were unable to take them as the Rushmoor keeper pulled off a string of great saves. Rushmoor scored a third to make it a nervous last ten minutes but Saints raised their game again at the end and Nathan Barnes scored his second of the match to settle things.

A lot of credit should go the Saints midfield of Harry Dodd, Dan Price and Oliver Tilley who created all five goals ably supported by a fine display from Ross Pearn.

A fine game for the boys who all put last weeks disappointment behind them and put into practice a lot of what they are shown at training which is credit to them.

Man of the Match; Dan Price

Improving Player; Julian Amoureso

10/9/06 Guildford Saints 1 - 2 Guildford FC 2000

 

A poor first half performance from the Saints saw them fall to an opening game defeat at the hands of Guildford FC2000.

 

A slow opening period was short on attacks by the Saints and two defensive errors let in FC2000 with two clinical finishes.

 

The second half was a complete turnaround with the Saints doing all the attacking but not finding their way thorough a resolute defence and a very skilful goalkeeper. Having missed a few chance the Saints managed to pull one back thorough a neat interchange and a cool finish by Tom Richards. However the Saints could not manage any more and the result was a fair reflection of the game.

 

Hopefully the Saints have got their worst performance of the season out the way now and can return to winning ways next week.

 

Man of the Match; Dan Price

 

Improving Player; Julian Amoureso