MIDDLETON COLTS 2NDS 2 |
baths fc 2 |  |
AFC DIDSBURY: Leighton, L Darlington, Bishop, McDonald (C), Jaffray, Kendrick (Ferguson), Harrison, M Darlington (Agyeman), Menghini, Vasko, Smith.
GOALS: M Darlington, Menghini, Ferguson, Harrison, L Darlington
ASSISTS: Ferguson, Smith, L Darlington, Bishop, Vasko
MAN OF THE MATCH: L Darlington
I GOT 5 ON IT (ft. Ceemaccydee)
Game 2, Didsbury massive slide to Bollington, home of football Sunday schemers
taking Baths FC straight to the cleaners ,we travel length and afar, in my company car to get a scar, more like a scalp
The grass was cut everywhere except the pitch, the ref turned up on a bike and no whip
The mood was relaxed listening to Hazza’s pre game “dreamy romantic techno mix”
The game started brightly, with Fam spreading the width
Creating bear triangles all over the pitch
Lloyd Darlo, Bish, Cee Mac, Jaffers and crew
Play it round the back and into the midfield two
Kendo and Hazza finding the space
Two of the best midfielders of the human race,
To say they were aggressive is a word ill spit truth
All up on Kendo like he was BAE wearing daisy duke
But with five o’ parked around the corner, Didsbury kept the sh!t in order,
Kept hussling and working like a Mexican running for border.
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
Goal 1- ball played to Ross Meghini, scooping the ball over, splitting defence like a bum in a mankini
Adam Ferguson space…you know the rest, rolled to matty D to smash into the net.
Offside Offside every time we tried to progress
Referee having to process, process, most def, you’ll go with the loudest shouts oh yes.
Didsbury continued to play, baths continued to press.
Many late tackles left us on the ground like Gold in an old chest.
The football was good, the system works, Vasko, Matty D and Kieran get the ball into areas to hurt
Pass pass pass creating the right Angle, oh my life is that ANOTHER triangle
We’re squaring the ball for Goal 2, Captain Col Mac ball down the line for Kieran to do
What young jeezy does best, pulling it back for Ross to impress
Shot score thankyou please, magic feet, defenders running panting and weez.
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
It was up in the air which league we would land, AND, we putting ourselves on the Map
Organised in goal, defence, midfield and attack.
And they say that sleep is the cousin of death and dream the distant relatives.
Lloyd flying down the wing dreaming just for the hell of it
Pull back, snap back, but not clothing garment, snap back for Adam to tap back into the net again
Dreaming of the future, the past, its already the present, no gifts of goal no presents, just presence
We were realising some cats will bark at you, field resembling a battle arena send in Pikachu
Dog rough tackles, sick as a parrot, balls there, dangle the carrot, bang nowhere to hide
playing through the back quick step sending some Baths FC players for a park and ride.
Half time blew, who knew, who knew 11 talented individuals could hold their own, hold the phone, these kids just play and don’t moan.
Manager Musson with some sensible words, rallying up his men just spittin the verbs.
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
2nd half, 3 up, the numbers looks good. Vasko, Harrison and Mengini cutting left and right we sense blood.
Making runs all over, watching the shoulder, Matty D, Adam and Kieran combing well looking for game over
Hazza getting forward looking to impress, until mandem kicked boy in his chest
Felony card, not get well card and the game begins, ball floated in the air and Harrison wins
Back of the net justice is served, all of a sudden the mouth of noise is no longer heard
Trenching back to the halfway line like sheep heard.
Didsbury although well behaved, seem to switch of and let the opponents in the game.
Fear not jimmy Leights save after save.
Playa should be wearing his boxers on the outside, flying left and right saving side to side.
Pressure is a bitch, a scratch that needs to be itched. The ball spent bear time in didsburys half of the pitch.
Shot saved rebound and into the path…of bath. Open net, you do the math.
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
4-1 game on, fix up, look sharp, head on the game in this sea full of sharks.
More bite from Bath and a touch offside, fella on his own 4-2 time.
From starting the game like “I wonder who they are” Didsbury were well and truly on Baths Radar
Sucked it up like henry and started again, Jon Batts pointing out the obvious to opposing mandem
Not only are you terrible at football but you are ugly as hell.
Ding ding game over where’s the bell, no comeback to that left hook, towel thrown in like Kell Brook
Back in stride Didsbury press, press up, up the pitch not like Kieran’s regime
And started to look again the better team, shinning with gleam, playing like a dream, did you say Eugene?
Eugene on the pitch, late to the party as ever, gliding over challenges light as a feather.
Didsbury turning the screw like DIY, rising to the occasion like a posh little pie.
10 minutes left , 4-2 safe money? Funny, Adam Ferguson threw in a dummy, left the defenders frozen like a mummy,
Lloyd D in space to score with a low rasping drive, 5-2 and now baths playing for pride.
The game dragging like a seals arse, and any hope of winning being sparse
A lovely young chap decided to leave in his stoods, and what followed was like a scene from boyz in the hood.
Ground thumping from Captain Col Mac, stoods down his leg scratching his tatt.
Baths FC player sent for an early….
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
Game 2, win 2, top of the tree, into, next week, next sheet, next chapter, next happy every after, master blaster, pre game rasta pasta, Faster, stronger, keep ball longer, playing for AFCD, did I say top of the Tree, you’ve been hit up with a match report from ceemaccydee.
Words by Colin McDonald
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
GOALS: M Darlington, Menghini, Ferguson, Harrison, L Darlington
ASSISTS: Ferguson, Smith, L Darlington, Bishop, Vasko
MAN OF THE MATCH: L Darlington
I GOT 5 ON IT (ft. Ceemaccydee)
Game 2, Didsbury massive slide to Bollington, home of football Sunday schemers
taking Baths FC straight to the cleaners ,we travel length and afar, in my company car to get a scar, more like a scalp
The grass was cut everywhere except the pitch, the ref turned up on a bike and no whip
The mood was relaxed listening to Hazza’s pre game “dreamy romantic techno mix”
The game started brightly, with Fam spreading the width
Creating bear triangles all over the pitch
Lloyd Darlo, Bish, Cee Mac, Jaffers and crew
Play it round the back and into the midfield two
Kendo and Hazza finding the space
Two of the best midfielders of the human race,
To say they were aggressive is a word ill spit truth
All up on Kendo like he was BAE wearing daisy duke
But with five o’ parked around the corner, Didsbury kept the sh!t in order,
Kept hussling and working like a Mexican running for border.
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
Goal 1- ball played to Ross Meghini, scooping the ball over, splitting defence like a bum in a mankini
Adam Ferguson space…you know the rest, rolled to matty D to smash into the net.
Offside Offside every time we tried to progress
Referee having to process, process, most def, you’ll go with the loudest shouts oh yes.
Didsbury continued to play, baths continued to press.
Many late tackles left us on the ground like Gold in an old chest.
The football was good, the system works, Vasko, Matty D and Kieran get the ball into areas to hurt
Pass pass pass creating the right Angle, oh my life is that ANOTHER triangle
We’re squaring the ball for Goal 2, Captain Col Mac ball down the line for Kieran to do
What young jeezy does best, pulling it back for Ross to impress
Shot score thankyou please, magic feet, defenders running panting and weez.
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
It was up in the air which league we would land, AND, we putting ourselves on the Map
Organised in goal, defence, midfield and attack.
And they say that sleep is the cousin of death and dream the distant relatives.
Lloyd flying down the wing dreaming just for the hell of it
Pull back, snap back, but not clothing garment, snap back for Adam to tap back into the net again
Dreaming of the future, the past, its already the present, no gifts of goal no presents, just presence
We were realising some cats will bark at you, field resembling a battle arena send in Pikachu
Dog rough tackles, sick as a parrot, balls there, dangle the carrot, bang nowhere to hide
playing through the back quick step sending some Baths FC players for a park and ride.
Half time blew, who knew, who knew 11 talented individuals could hold their own, hold the phone, these kids just play and don’t moan.
Manager Musson with some sensible words, rallying up his men just spittin the verbs.
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
2nd half, 3 up, the numbers looks good. Vasko, Harrison and Mengini cutting left and right we sense blood.
Making runs all over, watching the shoulder, Matty D, Adam and Kieran combing well looking for game over
Hazza getting forward looking to impress, until mandem kicked boy in his chest
Felony card, not get well card and the game begins, ball floated in the air and Harrison wins
Back of the net justice is served, all of a sudden the mouth of noise is no longer heard
Trenching back to the halfway line like sheep heard.
Didsbury although well behaved, seem to switch of and let the opponents in the game.
Fear not jimmy Leights save after save.
Playa should be wearing his boxers on the outside, flying left and right saving side to side.
Pressure is a bitch, a scratch that needs to be itched. The ball spent bear time in didsburys half of the pitch.
Shot saved rebound and into the path…of bath. Open net, you do the math.
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
4-1 game on, fix up, look sharp, head on the game in this sea full of sharks.
More bite from Bath and a touch offside, fella on his own 4-2 time.
From starting the game like “I wonder who they are” Didsbury were well and truly on Baths Radar
Sucked it up like henry and started again, Jon Batts pointing out the obvious to opposing mandem
Not only are you terrible at football but you are ugly as hell.
Ding ding game over where’s the bell, no comeback to that left hook, towel thrown in like Kell Brook
Back in stride Didsbury press, press up, up the pitch not like Kieran’s regime
And started to look again the better team, shinning with gleam, playing like a dream, did you say Eugene?
Eugene on the pitch, late to the party as ever, gliding over challenges light as a feather.
Didsbury turning the screw like DIY, rising to the occasion like a posh little pie.
10 minutes left , 4-2 safe money? Funny, Adam Ferguson threw in a dummy, left the defenders frozen like a mummy,
Lloyd D in space to score with a low rasping drive, 5-2 and now baths playing for pride.
The game dragging like a seals arse, and any hope of winning being sparse
A lovely young chap decided to leave in his stoods, and what followed was like a scene from boyz in the hood.
Ground thumping from Captain Col Mac, stoods down his leg scratching his tatt.
Baths FC player sent for an early….
Rise and the falls the ups and the downs, I’m staying real till they put me in the ground
Game 2, win 2, top of the tree, into, next week, next sheet, next chapter, next happy every after, master blaster, pre game rasta pasta, Faster, stronger, keep ball longer, playing for AFCD, did I say top of the Tree, you’ve been hit up with a match report from ceemaccydee.
Words by Colin McDonald
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
D&C Athletic Vs afc didsbury 2 / ecsfl division 3 (11/09/16 - lacey green pitch, wilmslow)
9/12/2016
d&c athletic 0
afc didsbury 12
AFC DIDSBURY: Carr, Simpson (Plowright), Rogers (C), Hield, Westall, Wallace (Garcia), Williams, Tauro, Higginson, New, Adcock.
GOALS: Wallace (3), Westall, Adcock, Williams (3), Rogers, New (2), Garcia
ASSISTS: Westall, (2), Rogers, Adcock, Wallace (3), Tauro, Higginson (2), New (2)
MAN OF THE MATCH: Williams
2S GO 2 FOR 2 WITH KNOCKOUT PERFORMANCE AT LACEY GREEN
Anyone worried about Kell Brook’s bruised ego this weekend might spare a thought for the collective psyche of D&C Athletic, who gamely endured a 12-0 thrashing at the hands of AFC Didsbury’s second team in the ECSFL 3rd Division this Sunday.
In fact, throwing in the towel halfway through with a broken eye socket might have been an attractive prospect to the Wilmslow side, had they been given the opportunity.
Cheshire council are to be applauded for their part in the victory, by virtue of excellent grounds-keeping (I was warned about the presence of a significant portion of dog faeces up the wing by the opposition left midfielder, in a commendable display of sportsmanship). The tall grass had the ball running slower than a James Leighton 1-2 combination, and the Limes used this to their advantage, pressing hard and forcing error after error.
The 2s squad much-changed from the previous week’s 2-0 opener against Torpedo Grove, some might have been unsure what to expect. Not so defender BJ Westall, who casually prophesised a 30-yard worldy in the warm-up, a promise he promptly delivered on, 5 minutes after throwing an excellent ball in the path of Wallace, who headed in to open the scoring. Soon after, the left-back took the ball from defence and curled what he maintains was a legitimate attempt on goal into the top corner. Beautiful stuff. Enjoy the champagne.
Eager to capitalise on D&C’s sluggish start, the Limes gained a foothold early in the game, with a nutmeg from Adcock and a composed finish from Stu Williams. The half finished 6-0 after Didsbury favourite Wayne Rogers ‘megged the keeper again, followed by another from Williams, who was on fine form.
One can only imagine the team-talk on the other side of the pitch, in which several expletives were presumably levelLed at the poor D&C stopper, who did not return for the 2nd half.
In the Didsbury camp, Dan ‘Scouse Mourinho’ Connolly warned against complacency, issuing the target of a 12-0 victory. Sure enough, after a pep talk from their corner, the D&C lads came out swinging in the 2nd half. A tough 10 minutes followed, and Garcia was deployed in midfield to slow down the pace and dictate play.
Luckily, it is true what they say; Gaz New always comes twice.
After a dogged pursuit down the right wing, full-back Simpson found last week’s MOTM with a cross-field ball that he converted. Some alleged that the D&C ‘keeper, newly substituted on to preserve the mental health of his colleague, slapped it into his own net for an OG. Alas, the jury is out on whether this reporter gets his first competitive assist, but the fines committee has already rightly passed judgement on New for celebrating as though it was an FA Cup winner.
2 minutes later, New slipped another one in behind the ‘keeper for his 3rd in 2 games. Top form from the power cube.
Didsbury’s haymaker was a spell in which the formidable Wallace scored 2 more, sealing his first hat-trick of the season, and Garcia bagged himself a well-earned tap in at the 6 yard box. The D&C side had shown plenty of chin, but they were now looking dead on their feet.
Just as Connolly was beginning to think it was perfect, and worrying about how he’d issue a ‘thanks for coming’ fine, Jack ‘The Stiff’ Adcock rose well in acres of space, 3 yards from the goal, to head a sublime cross from Wallace – miles over the bar. The forward limped off hurt soon after, in what may have been a ploy to prevent further embarrassment. With 2 assists and a goal in 2, he probably won’t be dwelling on it for too long.
Shortly after, James ‘Bullingdon’ Plowright, who had been a menace all day up the left flank, found himself in a gentlemanly disagreement with the corpulent D&C forward, who had elbowed him in the chops. Plow issued what he later explained was an ‘upper class insult’, calmly informing his imposing adversary that another similar infraction would earn him a red card and a summary fine delivered by the appropriate agent. Needless to say, this encounter was a chilling experience for the striker, who, impressively, stayed invisible for the remainder of the match.
The rout concluded with Williams securing a thoroughly deserved hat-trick and Connolly’s dozen safely in the books.
The Limes are yet to concede a goal in the East Cheshire Sunday Football League, and this performance made it clear why. Wallace and Williams were simply unplayable in the centre of the pitch and came away with 6 goals and 3 assists between them, and 2 of each for New. Special mentions are in order for Johnston, Westall and Rogers, who were invariably rock solid at centre-half, Tauro, who raised hell on the right wing earning himself an assist, and Higginson with 2 assists on his competitive debut. With little to do, he mostly spent the afternoon working on his tan, but youngster Nath Carr played the ball out well from the goal, showing great composure and excellent decision making.
Sorry D&C. If it means anything, you showed bags of character and seemed like nice blokes. Somebody get those poor goalkeepers a drink.
Words by Jack Simpson
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
GOALS: Wallace (3), Westall, Adcock, Williams (3), Rogers, New (2), Garcia
ASSISTS: Westall, (2), Rogers, Adcock, Wallace (3), Tauro, Higginson (2), New (2)
MAN OF THE MATCH: Williams
2S GO 2 FOR 2 WITH KNOCKOUT PERFORMANCE AT LACEY GREEN
Anyone worried about Kell Brook’s bruised ego this weekend might spare a thought for the collective psyche of D&C Athletic, who gamely endured a 12-0 thrashing at the hands of AFC Didsbury’s second team in the ECSFL 3rd Division this Sunday.
In fact, throwing in the towel halfway through with a broken eye socket might have been an attractive prospect to the Wilmslow side, had they been given the opportunity.
Cheshire council are to be applauded for their part in the victory, by virtue of excellent grounds-keeping (I was warned about the presence of a significant portion of dog faeces up the wing by the opposition left midfielder, in a commendable display of sportsmanship). The tall grass had the ball running slower than a James Leighton 1-2 combination, and the Limes used this to their advantage, pressing hard and forcing error after error.
The 2s squad much-changed from the previous week’s 2-0 opener against Torpedo Grove, some might have been unsure what to expect. Not so defender BJ Westall, who casually prophesised a 30-yard worldy in the warm-up, a promise he promptly delivered on, 5 minutes after throwing an excellent ball in the path of Wallace, who headed in to open the scoring. Soon after, the left-back took the ball from defence and curled what he maintains was a legitimate attempt on goal into the top corner. Beautiful stuff. Enjoy the champagne.
Eager to capitalise on D&C’s sluggish start, the Limes gained a foothold early in the game, with a nutmeg from Adcock and a composed finish from Stu Williams. The half finished 6-0 after Didsbury favourite Wayne Rogers ‘megged the keeper again, followed by another from Williams, who was on fine form.
One can only imagine the team-talk on the other side of the pitch, in which several expletives were presumably levelLed at the poor D&C stopper, who did not return for the 2nd half.
In the Didsbury camp, Dan ‘Scouse Mourinho’ Connolly warned against complacency, issuing the target of a 12-0 victory. Sure enough, after a pep talk from their corner, the D&C lads came out swinging in the 2nd half. A tough 10 minutes followed, and Garcia was deployed in midfield to slow down the pace and dictate play.
Luckily, it is true what they say; Gaz New always comes twice.
After a dogged pursuit down the right wing, full-back Simpson found last week’s MOTM with a cross-field ball that he converted. Some alleged that the D&C ‘keeper, newly substituted on to preserve the mental health of his colleague, slapped it into his own net for an OG. Alas, the jury is out on whether this reporter gets his first competitive assist, but the fines committee has already rightly passed judgement on New for celebrating as though it was an FA Cup winner.
2 minutes later, New slipped another one in behind the ‘keeper for his 3rd in 2 games. Top form from the power cube.
Didsbury’s haymaker was a spell in which the formidable Wallace scored 2 more, sealing his first hat-trick of the season, and Garcia bagged himself a well-earned tap in at the 6 yard box. The D&C side had shown plenty of chin, but they were now looking dead on their feet.
Just as Connolly was beginning to think it was perfect, and worrying about how he’d issue a ‘thanks for coming’ fine, Jack ‘The Stiff’ Adcock rose well in acres of space, 3 yards from the goal, to head a sublime cross from Wallace – miles over the bar. The forward limped off hurt soon after, in what may have been a ploy to prevent further embarrassment. With 2 assists and a goal in 2, he probably won’t be dwelling on it for too long.
Shortly after, James ‘Bullingdon’ Plowright, who had been a menace all day up the left flank, found himself in a gentlemanly disagreement with the corpulent D&C forward, who had elbowed him in the chops. Plow issued what he later explained was an ‘upper class insult’, calmly informing his imposing adversary that another similar infraction would earn him a red card and a summary fine delivered by the appropriate agent. Needless to say, this encounter was a chilling experience for the striker, who, impressively, stayed invisible for the remainder of the match.
The rout concluded with Williams securing a thoroughly deserved hat-trick and Connolly’s dozen safely in the books.
The Limes are yet to concede a goal in the East Cheshire Sunday Football League, and this performance made it clear why. Wallace and Williams were simply unplayable in the centre of the pitch and came away with 6 goals and 3 assists between them, and 2 of each for New. Special mentions are in order for Johnston, Westall and Rogers, who were invariably rock solid at centre-half, Tauro, who raised hell on the right wing earning himself an assist, and Higginson with 2 assists on his competitive debut. With little to do, he mostly spent the afternoon working on his tan, but youngster Nath Carr played the ball out well from the goal, showing great composure and excellent decision making.
Sorry D&C. If it means anything, you showed bags of character and seemed like nice blokes. Somebody get those poor goalkeepers a drink.
Words by Jack Simpson
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
afc didsbury 2
thorpedo grove 0
AFC DIDSBURY: Bannister, Simpson (Blackburn), Birtwistle, Hield, Bermingham (Westall), Kelly (Cook), Kennedy (C), Wallace, Williamson (Rouf), New, Adcock (Gowrie).
GOALS: Kelly, New
ASSISTS: Adcock, Kennedy
MAN OF THE MATCH: New
THE SECONDS FIND THEIR GROOVE AGAINST THE GROVE
The dawn of a new day in AFC Didsbury history as the 2nd team arrived for its first competitive game, fresh from our parents uploading photo’s to Facebook of us all in our new kit in front of the front door. As we each tried to match the face to name on Teamer™ (still doing this as I write this report) in changing room the excitement built, after a great pre-season hopes and expectations were high.
Captain for the day Matt Kennedy took the warm up and the 2nd half of the Didsbury tic tac dream team started to get ready for battle on the meadow that is Hough End, as our injured Spanish left back took selfies in his new AFC jumper (or a photo of a tree, reports vary) our opponents arrived.
Kennedy won the toss and elected to change ends for giggles and good luck, the last time Didsbury had played on this ‘pitch’ was a very successful Kenners debut a couple of seasons ago… good times.
Despite the excitement it was the away side that made the first impression on the match with Thorpedo Grove’s star player hitting the post from 25yards out with a nicely struck curling effort. This was a sign of things to come in the first half as Didsbury showed typical ‘first game of the season’ traits in their play. However, the only thing Didsbury did have was cutting edge and broke clear of the groves defence on 2 occasions, the first following some sustained pressure from The Grove, the home side broke quickly from a corner and Chris Kelly powered through from a Jack Adcock through ball to calmly slot home past the on rushing keeper. The second Adcock was involved again out muscling his marker to go clear and side foot it past the keeper…and the goal…and the tram station…and the M60. It was Adcock’s last involvement as injury or embarrassment took hold.
Didsbury continued to restrict Thorpedo, which the more I type the more I realise is the most ridiculous name, Grove to long range shots which were as easy to deal with as a 4 pinter of milk on the sofa for new recruit Thom Bannister. Half Time.
Half time was quiet, too quiet, Didsbury knew they need to improve and so the management rang the changes. Kennedy up front, Jack Wallace to centre mid and Dave ‘weak veins’ Gowrie on for Adcock.
It took 5 minutes after half time for the changes to take hold Didsbury’s play to improve, keeping hold of the ball better and looking more solid in centre midfield. The game then became more of a battle for centre ground with neither team creating clear cut chances, Bannister saving anything long range and pouncing on anything played through the defence to earn his 45minute shower when he got home.
Wallace and Gareth New hounded the Thorpedo (HA!) Grove players constantly and late in the second half Didsbury had they’re reward. A heroic slide rule ball down the channel from Gowrie was back heeled to Kennedy by the overlapping Kelly, Kennedy, disobeying all his natural instinct laid the ball through the centre backs to Gareth New who was free at the far post. New calmly took 4 touches and smashed it past the keeper and covering defender to make it 2-0.
Soon after, the final whistle was blown and it was the end of a very even game. I wouldn’t quite call it a smash and grab but Didsbury definitely rode their luck at times with quality in the final third nudgging us past our opponents. Someone famous once said it was the sign of a good team to not be 100% and still win, onwards and upwards for AFCD2s.
Words by Matt Kennedy
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
GOALS: Kelly, New
ASSISTS: Adcock, Kennedy
MAN OF THE MATCH: New
THE SECONDS FIND THEIR GROOVE AGAINST THE GROVE
The dawn of a new day in AFC Didsbury history as the 2nd team arrived for its first competitive game, fresh from our parents uploading photo’s to Facebook of us all in our new kit in front of the front door. As we each tried to match the face to name on Teamer™ (still doing this as I write this report) in changing room the excitement built, after a great pre-season hopes and expectations were high.
Captain for the day Matt Kennedy took the warm up and the 2nd half of the Didsbury tic tac dream team started to get ready for battle on the meadow that is Hough End, as our injured Spanish left back took selfies in his new AFC jumper (or a photo of a tree, reports vary) our opponents arrived.
Kennedy won the toss and elected to change ends for giggles and good luck, the last time Didsbury had played on this ‘pitch’ was a very successful Kenners debut a couple of seasons ago… good times.
Despite the excitement it was the away side that made the first impression on the match with Thorpedo Grove’s star player hitting the post from 25yards out with a nicely struck curling effort. This was a sign of things to come in the first half as Didsbury showed typical ‘first game of the season’ traits in their play. However, the only thing Didsbury did have was cutting edge and broke clear of the groves defence on 2 occasions, the first following some sustained pressure from The Grove, the home side broke quickly from a corner and Chris Kelly powered through from a Jack Adcock through ball to calmly slot home past the on rushing keeper. The second Adcock was involved again out muscling his marker to go clear and side foot it past the keeper…and the goal…and the tram station…and the M60. It was Adcock’s last involvement as injury or embarrassment took hold.
Didsbury continued to restrict Thorpedo, which the more I type the more I realise is the most ridiculous name, Grove to long range shots which were as easy to deal with as a 4 pinter of milk on the sofa for new recruit Thom Bannister. Half Time.
Half time was quiet, too quiet, Didsbury knew they need to improve and so the management rang the changes. Kennedy up front, Jack Wallace to centre mid and Dave ‘weak veins’ Gowrie on for Adcock.
It took 5 minutes after half time for the changes to take hold Didsbury’s play to improve, keeping hold of the ball better and looking more solid in centre midfield. The game then became more of a battle for centre ground with neither team creating clear cut chances, Bannister saving anything long range and pouncing on anything played through the defence to earn his 45minute shower when he got home.
Wallace and Gareth New hounded the Thorpedo (HA!) Grove players constantly and late in the second half Didsbury had they’re reward. A heroic slide rule ball down the channel from Gowrie was back heeled to Kennedy by the overlapping Kelly, Kennedy, disobeying all his natural instinct laid the ball through the centre backs to Gareth New who was free at the far post. New calmly took 4 touches and smashed it past the keeper and covering defender to make it 2-0.
Soon after, the final whistle was blown and it was the end of a very even game. I wouldn’t quite call it a smash and grab but Didsbury definitely rode their luck at times with quality in the final third nudgging us past our opponents. Someone famous once said it was the sign of a good team to not be 100% and still win, onwards and upwards for AFCD2s.
Words by Matt Kennedy
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
dolphin inn 3 |  |
AFC DIDSBURY: Leighton, L Darlington, Bishop, Battersby (C) (Kilgour), Harrison, Kendrick, Whiteley (Mackie), M Darlington (Ferguson), Menghini, Vasko, Smith.
GOALS: Menghini (2), Smith (2)
ASSISTS: Kendrick, Kilgour, L Darlington
MAN OF THE MATCH: Leighton
LEAGUE NEW, TEAM NEW, OBJECTIVES NEW, SYSTEM NEW, GAZ NEW…
The AFCD scouts were extremely busy during the summer transfer period in need to enrich the current and add to the second team squad. With such a big name in charge like Jose Mussinho it was a fairly easy task to do. People were queuing in front of his house to be selected to be a part of the AFCD family. (For all newbies, you should feel blessed.)
And then came the 4th September 2016, the day we had been waiting so long for. New season, new league, new AFCD team, new system of playing… the list could go on forever.
Before I start I would like to share something with you from our pre-season drinking session on Friday night:
Once upon a time when I was in India I got invited to a birthday party. People at some point started dancing with plates on their heads. At the time I found it strange so I told myself there is definitely nothing in life that can surprise me after seeing this. If only I had known then how wrong I could be. After seeing Whiteley dancing with his shoe on his head and Leighton topless at 8:30pm, this made my Indian experience not look so strange anymore. There were few other highlights of the night but if I could only remember them and then there was THE LADY IN PURPLE.
Anyway, it was a beautiful Sunday morning, everyone ready to set off for our first match in Macclesfield. We went around the roundabouts twice and still arrived 1.5hrs before the match, a few lads turning up as if they were going on a walk and Kieran Smith was wearing his sexy hat. Here we are AFC Didsbury.
Fully ready to try our new system in a competitive match. Game on.
Straight from the kick off a long ball was sent forward by the opposition, the slippery surface helped a bit and Dolphin Inn’s striker found himself in an excellent position after just 12 seconds of the game. Jame Leighton was left helplessly watching the striker passing by and we all knew what was coming. If only if we didn’t have a Lloyd Darlington in our squad, out of nowhere making a clearance worthy of a Champagne Moment nomination. Well done son!
The Didsbury players deployed themselves on the pitch afterwards. The pitch wasn’t in perfect condition but they didn’t mind and kept playing their tiki-taka system. As the game progressed further Didsbury kept possession and controlled the game. A big shock came after 10 minute when centre half and captain, John Batterbsy, tore his hamstring and Didsbury had to re-arrange the squad. Pete Kilgour with his fresh sexy legs came on.
The first big chance for the away side came after Vasko crossed the ball into the box and Matt Darlington volleyed the ball not far from goal. Spectators were getting excited and It didn’t take long for last season’s top scorer, Ross Menghini, to open the scoring after a deflected ball found a way behind the opponent’s defenders and he calmly slotted home with the first goal of 2016-17. Didsbury looked confident in the middle of the field, the trio of Kilgour, Tom Whiteley and Menghini linked up very well with support from right back Darlington and left back, Matt Harrison, they looked unbreakable. There were some attempts from opposition to get the equaliser however, Leighton was in fine form and made some brilliant saves.
The referee blew his whistle to end the first half and Didsbury were a step closer to their first victory.
No changes on either side, game on. It was the 56th minute of the game and up to this point playing without a single mistake Matt Kendrick made a shocking pass towards fellow centre half, Chris Bishop, who had been excellent all game but was left helpless.… nothing else needs to be said 1:1!
Straight after that, Kendrick made up for it, sending a excellent pass upfront where Menghini’s finish was like Bergkamp’s against Argentina in 1998 (as JB would say). 1:2 AFCD taking the lead again.
It didn’t take long and Dolphin inn equalised again, a goal very similar to the one Didsbury had just scored. A very calm finish left Leighton helpless.
There were some changes made, new singing Adam Ferguson came onto the pitch to help Didsbury grab the 3 points at a ground were an unnamed Didsbury player claimed to have fingered most of his lovers as a youngster!
It was a good decision in the end as Didsbury took the lead again after Kilgour brilliantly found Smith and the well-built forward, who was found in a local gym in Great Ancoats a year ago by Didsbury scout Pavol Vasko, did what he does best. 2:3.
In a matter of a few minutes Didsbury increased their lead and made it 2:4 when L Darlington (a right back, found himself on the left wing) and with the outside of his foot, sent an excellent pass into Smith who calmly scored.
Dolphin inn managed to keep the game alive by grabbing themselves a 3rd goal. However, it wasn’t enough this time and AFC Didsbury could celebrate their first victory.
An excellent start. Well done to everyone!!!
Words by Pavol Vasko.
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
GOALS: Menghini (2), Smith (2)
ASSISTS: Kendrick, Kilgour, L Darlington
MAN OF THE MATCH: Leighton
LEAGUE NEW, TEAM NEW, OBJECTIVES NEW, SYSTEM NEW, GAZ NEW…
The AFCD scouts were extremely busy during the summer transfer period in need to enrich the current and add to the second team squad. With such a big name in charge like Jose Mussinho it was a fairly easy task to do. People were queuing in front of his house to be selected to be a part of the AFCD family. (For all newbies, you should feel blessed.)
And then came the 4th September 2016, the day we had been waiting so long for. New season, new league, new AFCD team, new system of playing… the list could go on forever.
Before I start I would like to share something with you from our pre-season drinking session on Friday night:
Once upon a time when I was in India I got invited to a birthday party. People at some point started dancing with plates on their heads. At the time I found it strange so I told myself there is definitely nothing in life that can surprise me after seeing this. If only I had known then how wrong I could be. After seeing Whiteley dancing with his shoe on his head and Leighton topless at 8:30pm, this made my Indian experience not look so strange anymore. There were few other highlights of the night but if I could only remember them and then there was THE LADY IN PURPLE.
Anyway, it was a beautiful Sunday morning, everyone ready to set off for our first match in Macclesfield. We went around the roundabouts twice and still arrived 1.5hrs before the match, a few lads turning up as if they were going on a walk and Kieran Smith was wearing his sexy hat. Here we are AFC Didsbury.
Fully ready to try our new system in a competitive match. Game on.
Straight from the kick off a long ball was sent forward by the opposition, the slippery surface helped a bit and Dolphin Inn’s striker found himself in an excellent position after just 12 seconds of the game. Jame Leighton was left helplessly watching the striker passing by and we all knew what was coming. If only if we didn’t have a Lloyd Darlington in our squad, out of nowhere making a clearance worthy of a Champagne Moment nomination. Well done son!
The Didsbury players deployed themselves on the pitch afterwards. The pitch wasn’t in perfect condition but they didn’t mind and kept playing their tiki-taka system. As the game progressed further Didsbury kept possession and controlled the game. A big shock came after 10 minute when centre half and captain, John Batterbsy, tore his hamstring and Didsbury had to re-arrange the squad. Pete Kilgour with his fresh sexy legs came on.
The first big chance for the away side came after Vasko crossed the ball into the box and Matt Darlington volleyed the ball not far from goal. Spectators were getting excited and It didn’t take long for last season’s top scorer, Ross Menghini, to open the scoring after a deflected ball found a way behind the opponent’s defenders and he calmly slotted home with the first goal of 2016-17. Didsbury looked confident in the middle of the field, the trio of Kilgour, Tom Whiteley and Menghini linked up very well with support from right back Darlington and left back, Matt Harrison, they looked unbreakable. There were some attempts from opposition to get the equaliser however, Leighton was in fine form and made some brilliant saves.
The referee blew his whistle to end the first half and Didsbury were a step closer to their first victory.
No changes on either side, game on. It was the 56th minute of the game and up to this point playing without a single mistake Matt Kendrick made a shocking pass towards fellow centre half, Chris Bishop, who had been excellent all game but was left helpless.… nothing else needs to be said 1:1!
Straight after that, Kendrick made up for it, sending a excellent pass upfront where Menghini’s finish was like Bergkamp’s against Argentina in 1998 (as JB would say). 1:2 AFCD taking the lead again.
It didn’t take long and Dolphin inn equalised again, a goal very similar to the one Didsbury had just scored. A very calm finish left Leighton helpless.
There were some changes made, new singing Adam Ferguson came onto the pitch to help Didsbury grab the 3 points at a ground were an unnamed Didsbury player claimed to have fingered most of his lovers as a youngster!
It was a good decision in the end as Didsbury took the lead again after Kilgour brilliantly found Smith and the well-built forward, who was found in a local gym in Great Ancoats a year ago by Didsbury scout Pavol Vasko, did what he does best. 2:3.
In a matter of a few minutes Didsbury increased their lead and made it 2:4 when L Darlington (a right back, found himself on the left wing) and with the outside of his foot, sent an excellent pass into Smith who calmly scored.
Dolphin inn managed to keep the game alive by grabbing themselves a 3rd goal. However, it wasn’t enough this time and AFC Didsbury could celebrate their first victory.
An excellent start. Well done to everyone!!!
Words by Pavol Vasko.
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
davyhulme park 4
afc didsbury 5
As the season drew to a close on a warm Summer's eve, you might have been forgiven for thinking that Davyhulme Park and AFC Didsbury would finish with a light-hearted affair down at Broadway Park fields. Both teams with little to play for other than pride (and a sub-plot involving AFCD striker Menghini looking to topple the opposition forward from the head of the golden boot rankings - an award more prestigious than the league and all the cups).
However, there has always been a healthy rivalry between the two sides and this contest proved that there is never nothing to play for.
The game was played out on a pitch resembling the near-death dream of Maximus Decimus Meridius, the long grass (/corn) swaying in the wind as manager Musson rans his hands through it as he paced the touchline. Didsbury used this to their advantage, as it meant you literally didn't need a touch, the ball stopped of its own accord irrespective of the weight of the pass being played.
Early pressure from Davyhulme, with their pacey forward making inroads into the box, resulted in what can only be described as not a penalty. Alas, there was, in fact, a penalty awarded. The Davyhulme front-man dispatched the spot-kick in no uncertain terms. The Didsbury stopper fingered the ball (ooOOOoo matron!), but the power behind the shot carried it home.
Didsbury were quick to respond however. After an equalising back-post header from their lanky centre-back, the big freak managed to make it two in two minutes with a near identical goal, this time from a wide freekick, jabbing it home with his size 13s. All this after asking his marker to do a better job this time round. John's never scored two goals in a game before; this became clear as he absolutely lost his shit from this point forward, playing like some kind of Johan Cruyff total-futbal meister. He had in fact realised that the length of the grass allowed him to run at an almost equal speed to the opposition, like one of those dreams you can't wake from, only Battersby is the one chasing you *shudders*. This enabled him to beak into the box and demand the ball every time Menghini was bearing down on goal trying to get his golden boot award.
As the half developed, a flashpoint occurred when the Davyhulme midfielder/centreback/goalkeeper kindly removed the Didsbury winger Matty Darlo's legs before trampling them into the ground (receiving a thoroughly deserved yellow card). Tempers bubbled over and the referee did well to calm the situation by distracting the players with his pokemon cards. Lloyd has always wanted the Charazard shiny and fought his way to the front of the queue only to find that he had been pipped by one of the opposition doing a swapsies. This left a sour taste to say the least. Half time.
The second half produced some enthralling end to end football, with both goalkeepers regularly tested. Goals were being scored too. Didsbury kept poking their noses in front but Davyhulme kept pulling them back to level pegging.
At 4-4, the breakthrough came from a Gaz Lee cross late in the day, being met by Menghini to bag his second and Didsbury's fifth of the match. Even though he had played eight games more than his colleague, Rossi's goal was not enough for him to top the goalscorer charts, and he finished the game wishing he was better at football.
AFCD took home three deserved points and finish the season languishing deep in mid-table mediocrity. Van Gaal, who we all agree is a nice bloke, managed to finish 5th and get to a cup final before getting told to wipe that homicidal grin from his fat head and take his shit football elsewhere. Musson will have to sweat it out over the next few days with an AFCD board meeting due early next week.
Words by Matt Harrison.
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
However, there has always been a healthy rivalry between the two sides and this contest proved that there is never nothing to play for.
The game was played out on a pitch resembling the near-death dream of Maximus Decimus Meridius, the long grass (/corn) swaying in the wind as manager Musson rans his hands through it as he paced the touchline. Didsbury used this to their advantage, as it meant you literally didn't need a touch, the ball stopped of its own accord irrespective of the weight of the pass being played.
Early pressure from Davyhulme, with their pacey forward making inroads into the box, resulted in what can only be described as not a penalty. Alas, there was, in fact, a penalty awarded. The Davyhulme front-man dispatched the spot-kick in no uncertain terms. The Didsbury stopper fingered the ball (ooOOOoo matron!), but the power behind the shot carried it home.
Didsbury were quick to respond however. After an equalising back-post header from their lanky centre-back, the big freak managed to make it two in two minutes with a near identical goal, this time from a wide freekick, jabbing it home with his size 13s. All this after asking his marker to do a better job this time round. John's never scored two goals in a game before; this became clear as he absolutely lost his shit from this point forward, playing like some kind of Johan Cruyff total-futbal meister. He had in fact realised that the length of the grass allowed him to run at an almost equal speed to the opposition, like one of those dreams you can't wake from, only Battersby is the one chasing you *shudders*. This enabled him to beak into the box and demand the ball every time Menghini was bearing down on goal trying to get his golden boot award.
As the half developed, a flashpoint occurred when the Davyhulme midfielder/centreback/goalkeeper kindly removed the Didsbury winger Matty Darlo's legs before trampling them into the ground (receiving a thoroughly deserved yellow card). Tempers bubbled over and the referee did well to calm the situation by distracting the players with his pokemon cards. Lloyd has always wanted the Charazard shiny and fought his way to the front of the queue only to find that he had been pipped by one of the opposition doing a swapsies. This left a sour taste to say the least. Half time.
The second half produced some enthralling end to end football, with both goalkeepers regularly tested. Goals were being scored too. Didsbury kept poking their noses in front but Davyhulme kept pulling them back to level pegging.
At 4-4, the breakthrough came from a Gaz Lee cross late in the day, being met by Menghini to bag his second and Didsbury's fifth of the match. Even though he had played eight games more than his colleague, Rossi's goal was not enough for him to top the goalscorer charts, and he finished the game wishing he was better at football.
AFCD took home three deserved points and finish the season languishing deep in mid-table mediocrity. Van Gaal, who we all agree is a nice bloke, managed to finish 5th and get to a cup final before getting told to wipe that homicidal grin from his fat head and take his shit football elsewhere. Musson will have to sweat it out over the next few days with an AFCD board meeting due early next week.
Words by Matt Harrison.
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
AFC Cringlewood 1
AFC Didsbury 0
AFC Didsbury: Jaffray, L Darlington, Mackie, Bishop, Wallace, M Darlington, Walker (Whiteley), Kilgour (Hadfield), Vasko, Corbett (Peat), Kennedy (New).
GOALS: -
ASSISTS: -
MAN OF THE MATCH: Bishop
Following last year’s award winning match report detailing the apparent connection between Wednesday’s and bad things happening, I feel it is important to note that this fixture was also played on the most testing of days: Wednesday. That can be the only reason which can explain our second defeat of the season to our fellow AFC-ers.
Now, I don’t feel like I had a particularly bad Wednesday. I taught one lesson – on the causes and consequences of social deprivation within a city in a High Income Country (HIC), namely Manchester – and had the rest of the day to mentally prepare for the trip to, when constructed, the largest council housing estate in Europe, Wythenshawe. I managed to get 4 bottles of wine and a bottle of gin, plus promise for another gift which hadn’t arrived yet (colouring crayons?!), from my Upper Sixth class who finished school on that day so in fact I would say I had had a very good day.
Upon arrival at the University pitches I recoiled in astonishment at the sheer volume of individuals who had managed to battle their way through the traffic from work and reach Wythenshawe so promptly. There I am, regularly having to field self-gratifying, witty remarks about finishing work at 3pm every day and having week after week of holiday, as I laugh through gritted teeth plotting something equally mind-numbingly tedious to snort back at a team full of office-based accountants. To then find a car park full of either teachers (although morale is low and we are all quitting aren’t we, Mr Lee?) or my fellow-employed-brethren already in full kit?! Plenty of swears (I know my mum could read this).
Looking past that and the mental anguish that it will invariably cause me, the game was a fairly close affair but as you know we lost 1-0 and Mackie, despite having a very good game, scored their winner. A nonchalant flick over the advancing BJ – there’s a joke in there somewhere – was all that could separate the sides.
It certainly wasn’t a classic, both sides failed to keep hold of the ball for any length of time and mostly a long punt down field seemed the most threatening any side could be, other than the potential of spotting Gaz New on the periphery of a student night out, guns out in all their majesty. To say it was a disjointed affair would be both accurate and inaccurate at the same time. I don’t condone drug testing in amateur football but there were certainly some of us who took the ‘playing on grass’ notion much more seriously than others.
The battle of the AFC’s really came down to decision making in the final third, or the quality of the final ball and it was missing for the entirety of the fixture. Chances fell to Matt Darlington and Rick Peat in the second half but ultimately Didsbury failed to equalise whilst Cringlewood did their best to make the most of poor service but were content to see the clock down and take the not-so-all-important three points. Chris Bishop and Jonny Mackie in particular sweeping up in semi-efficient, sometimes hazardous fashion.
Other action of note included Whiteley turning up with Kenners and music blaring out of his VW convertible, the identification of the lesser-spotted Rick Peat, the Hulme v. St John’s Greens game looking more interesting across the field and the fact Liam Hadfield made it onto the field and should really have been sent from the field for, what can only be described as, an amateur professional foul.
The chat on the side between substitutes, followers and worshippers was actually of greater interest than the football. As I sat there, reacting horrifically to a combination of the quality of service to our forward line and the particular type of grass/pollen around that evening, I started to ponder how frequently this would be the case. This aspect of the beautiful game, being a subsititute, is one I’ve not known too well from experience but is one I’m starting to accept, grasp and enjoy with each passing fixture. I think I even questioned whether the football was entirely necessary.
At that point, I knew what I had to do. I’ve only 3 bottles of wine and half a bottle of gin left now. Some Wednesday’s aren’t always that bad.
Words by Mike Corbett
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
GOALS: -
ASSISTS: -
MAN OF THE MATCH: Bishop
Following last year’s award winning match report detailing the apparent connection between Wednesday’s and bad things happening, I feel it is important to note that this fixture was also played on the most testing of days: Wednesday. That can be the only reason which can explain our second defeat of the season to our fellow AFC-ers.
Now, I don’t feel like I had a particularly bad Wednesday. I taught one lesson – on the causes and consequences of social deprivation within a city in a High Income Country (HIC), namely Manchester – and had the rest of the day to mentally prepare for the trip to, when constructed, the largest council housing estate in Europe, Wythenshawe. I managed to get 4 bottles of wine and a bottle of gin, plus promise for another gift which hadn’t arrived yet (colouring crayons?!), from my Upper Sixth class who finished school on that day so in fact I would say I had had a very good day.
Upon arrival at the University pitches I recoiled in astonishment at the sheer volume of individuals who had managed to battle their way through the traffic from work and reach Wythenshawe so promptly. There I am, regularly having to field self-gratifying, witty remarks about finishing work at 3pm every day and having week after week of holiday, as I laugh through gritted teeth plotting something equally mind-numbingly tedious to snort back at a team full of office-based accountants. To then find a car park full of either teachers (although morale is low and we are all quitting aren’t we, Mr Lee?) or my fellow-employed-brethren already in full kit?! Plenty of swears (I know my mum could read this).
Looking past that and the mental anguish that it will invariably cause me, the game was a fairly close affair but as you know we lost 1-0 and Mackie, despite having a very good game, scored their winner. A nonchalant flick over the advancing BJ – there’s a joke in there somewhere – was all that could separate the sides.
It certainly wasn’t a classic, both sides failed to keep hold of the ball for any length of time and mostly a long punt down field seemed the most threatening any side could be, other than the potential of spotting Gaz New on the periphery of a student night out, guns out in all their majesty. To say it was a disjointed affair would be both accurate and inaccurate at the same time. I don’t condone drug testing in amateur football but there were certainly some of us who took the ‘playing on grass’ notion much more seriously than others.
The battle of the AFC’s really came down to decision making in the final third, or the quality of the final ball and it was missing for the entirety of the fixture. Chances fell to Matt Darlington and Rick Peat in the second half but ultimately Didsbury failed to equalise whilst Cringlewood did their best to make the most of poor service but were content to see the clock down and take the not-so-all-important three points. Chris Bishop and Jonny Mackie in particular sweeping up in semi-efficient, sometimes hazardous fashion.
Other action of note included Whiteley turning up with Kenners and music blaring out of his VW convertible, the identification of the lesser-spotted Rick Peat, the Hulme v. St John’s Greens game looking more interesting across the field and the fact Liam Hadfield made it onto the field and should really have been sent from the field for, what can only be described as, an amateur professional foul.
The chat on the side between substitutes, followers and worshippers was actually of greater interest than the football. As I sat there, reacting horrifically to a combination of the quality of service to our forward line and the particular type of grass/pollen around that evening, I started to ponder how frequently this would be the case. This aspect of the beautiful game, being a subsititute, is one I’ve not known too well from experience but is one I’m starting to accept, grasp and enjoy with each passing fixture. I think I even questioned whether the football was entirely necessary.
At that point, I knew what I had to do. I’ve only 3 bottles of wine and half a bottle of gin left now. Some Wednesday’s aren’t always that bad.
Words by Mike Corbett
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
Blackboy 1
AFC Didsbury 4
AFC DIDSBURY: Rogers, L Darlington, Kendrick, Battersby (C), McDonald (Mackie), Bishop, Harrison, M Darlington (New), Menghini, Peat (Agyeman), Smith (Kennedy).
GOALS: M Darlington (2), Menghini, Smith
ASSISTS: Peat, Smith, L Darlington, Kennedy
MAN OF THE MATCH: Smith
When Are They Guna Believe Us... We're Going To Brantingham Road
Three days had passed since a humbling league defeat, and the end of Gaz New’s personal "invincible" season. Tears were shed *. Nonetheless he, and the rest of the Didsbury’s squad, set out determined to show the quality missing from our last few performances, and to give our season a fitting cup-final ending.
The tie was, to make a cheap analogy with the weather, a scorcher. Our opponents are cruising to their league title undefeated, and had already booked themselves one final. Didsbury believe reaching multiple cup finals is the work of greedy meanies. Also, we really really wanted one.
In spite of weather that even post-Coachella Matt Kennedy was finding warm, both teams set a high tempo throughout. Meanwhile Eugene Agyeman caught some rays and sought to scare and/or distract the opposition with his nude torso.
Didsbury’s opener saw Rick Peat schooling their full back (some of these are subtle, try to keep up); his swivel and low shot could only be parried, Matt Darlington was sharpest to the rebound, and his cool finish gave us the lead. Quality was high from both sides, but defences remained mostly on top, and the half finished 1-0.
Both teams sought to build play directly. Their number 9 and Didsbury’s Kieran Smith probably know each other from the gym. The pair showed strength and bravery throughout, but Smith showed he was more than just a battering ram shortly after time. Not content with laying the ball off, he turned his man and drove into the box. Supporting was the prolific Ross Menghini, who took a pass, dropped his shoulder past the diving defender, and slotted in the second.
If long throws are what you’re into, this was a veritable feast of javelins, hurled repeatedly from the rather narrow dimensions of the playing area. John Battersby, Matt Kendrick and Matt Harrison put their valuable and not unsightly heads on the line all day dealing with the aerial threat.
Didsbury’s resistance was broken by a frankly superb header from the aforementioned opposition target man, bringing them right back into the game.
A drinks break (in May! Take that, global warming naysayers) came at a good time for Didsbury to re-group. James Leighton kindly went on a water run, and his missus even more kindly carried said water back to the pitch, on account of Leighton’s current digital impairment. In his place Wayne Rogers was superb throughout with immaculate kicking and taking several dangerous crosses into his hands. We’ve almost forgotten he used to play outfield.
Lloyd Darlington linked up with Matt Darlington all afternoon with incredible chemistry, leading many onlookers to wonder whether they could almost be brothers. In any case, Lloyd produced a deft clip that this time found the considerable head of Kieran Smith, who helped it on into the corner, and restored the two goal lead.
As the opponents necessarily pushed on, the game for the first time opened up. Darlington, the younger one, could therefore use his pace, and promptly found himself one on one twice. Twice he outpaced the last line of defence, twice he coolly stepped around the goalkeeper, but for some reason only once did he remember to actually put the ball in the net. 4-1.
For the last fifteen minutes Didsbury continued to defend resolutely with substitutes getting stuck in (Jonathan Mackie), running quickly (Agyeman) and having ridiculous pot shots from 40 yards (Gaz New). It was truly a team performance of hard work and quality in equal measure.
The opponents showed plenty themselves and never gave up. Their performance showed why they will be real contenders in our division next year, and they also invited us for a drink afterwards which is just lovely. In fact, the slow-cooked beef stew with crowd-pleasing tiger bread baguette was a delightful end to a thoroughly enjoyable day **.
A cup final awaits. Top work lads.
*I’m guessing here.
**On leaving I tried to find the chef to pry secrets of said stew, but having already taken the sporting spoils, I suppose it was greedy to ask for that elusive recipe also. Nutmeg. I bet it was a pinch of nutmeg.
Words by Gareth Lee
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
GOALS: M Darlington (2), Menghini, Smith
ASSISTS: Peat, Smith, L Darlington, Kennedy
MAN OF THE MATCH: Smith
When Are They Guna Believe Us... We're Going To Brantingham Road
Three days had passed since a humbling league defeat, and the end of Gaz New’s personal "invincible" season. Tears were shed *. Nonetheless he, and the rest of the Didsbury’s squad, set out determined to show the quality missing from our last few performances, and to give our season a fitting cup-final ending.
The tie was, to make a cheap analogy with the weather, a scorcher. Our opponents are cruising to their league title undefeated, and had already booked themselves one final. Didsbury believe reaching multiple cup finals is the work of greedy meanies. Also, we really really wanted one.
In spite of weather that even post-Coachella Matt Kennedy was finding warm, both teams set a high tempo throughout. Meanwhile Eugene Agyeman caught some rays and sought to scare and/or distract the opposition with his nude torso.
Didsbury’s opener saw Rick Peat schooling their full back (some of these are subtle, try to keep up); his swivel and low shot could only be parried, Matt Darlington was sharpest to the rebound, and his cool finish gave us the lead. Quality was high from both sides, but defences remained mostly on top, and the half finished 1-0.
Both teams sought to build play directly. Their number 9 and Didsbury’s Kieran Smith probably know each other from the gym. The pair showed strength and bravery throughout, but Smith showed he was more than just a battering ram shortly after time. Not content with laying the ball off, he turned his man and drove into the box. Supporting was the prolific Ross Menghini, who took a pass, dropped his shoulder past the diving defender, and slotted in the second.
If long throws are what you’re into, this was a veritable feast of javelins, hurled repeatedly from the rather narrow dimensions of the playing area. John Battersby, Matt Kendrick and Matt Harrison put their valuable and not unsightly heads on the line all day dealing with the aerial threat.
Didsbury’s resistance was broken by a frankly superb header from the aforementioned opposition target man, bringing them right back into the game.
A drinks break (in May! Take that, global warming naysayers) came at a good time for Didsbury to re-group. James Leighton kindly went on a water run, and his missus even more kindly carried said water back to the pitch, on account of Leighton’s current digital impairment. In his place Wayne Rogers was superb throughout with immaculate kicking and taking several dangerous crosses into his hands. We’ve almost forgotten he used to play outfield.
Lloyd Darlington linked up with Matt Darlington all afternoon with incredible chemistry, leading many onlookers to wonder whether they could almost be brothers. In any case, Lloyd produced a deft clip that this time found the considerable head of Kieran Smith, who helped it on into the corner, and restored the two goal lead.
As the opponents necessarily pushed on, the game for the first time opened up. Darlington, the younger one, could therefore use his pace, and promptly found himself one on one twice. Twice he outpaced the last line of defence, twice he coolly stepped around the goalkeeper, but for some reason only once did he remember to actually put the ball in the net. 4-1.
For the last fifteen minutes Didsbury continued to defend resolutely with substitutes getting stuck in (Jonathan Mackie), running quickly (Agyeman) and having ridiculous pot shots from 40 yards (Gaz New). It was truly a team performance of hard work and quality in equal measure.
The opponents showed plenty themselves and never gave up. Their performance showed why they will be real contenders in our division next year, and they also invited us for a drink afterwards which is just lovely. In fact, the slow-cooked beef stew with crowd-pleasing tiger bread baguette was a delightful end to a thoroughly enjoyable day **.
A cup final awaits. Top work lads.
*I’m guessing here.
**On leaving I tried to find the chef to pry secrets of said stew, but having already taken the sporting spoils, I suppose it was greedy to ask for that elusive recipe also. Nutmeg. I bet it was a pinch of nutmeg.
Words by Gareth Lee
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
AFC Didsbury 1
Hulme 8
AFC DIDSBURY: Jaffray, L Darlington, Bishop, Battersby (C), Wallace (New), Lee, Kendrick, Harrison, M Darlington (Wedl), Kilgour (Corbett), Smith (Kennedy).
GOALS: Smith
ASSISTS: Kendrick
MAN OF THE MATCH: Smith
The Unbeatable Beaten
On a glorious Manchester evening which could potentially be classed as the first day of summer, it was not to be a first for Didsbury as they again failed to overcome a solid Hulme side.
The match will probably be remembered most as the game where Mr confident, Gaz New, was finally on the losing side whilst wearing an AFC Didsbury shirt this season. The devastation was apparent as he would no longer be able to update his Tinder profile to compare himself to Henry, Bergkamp and Viera as his fellow invincibles.
Hulme were well up for the game, tied at the top with Moss Side, they were not only out here to win but to win by a big margin to improve their goal difference, which could be crucial come the end of the season. Unfortunately, Didsbury obliged by conceding several soft goals to give Hulme a flattering full time scoreline of 8-1.
Hulme dominated possession in the first half with Didsbury looking dangerous on the break, but it always looked like like Hulme were the most likely to break the deadlock and after 15 minutes they duly obliged. 1-0.
Didsbury continued to try and play their passing style the faithful fans are so used to enjoying and it almost resulted in a goal. Started in defence it was worked out wide where Matt Darlington was played in behind the defence, he got to the goal line where he cut it back for Matt Kendrick but he couldn't quite get his feet sorted and the ball bounced harmlessly wide.
For all their possession Hulme were unable to create many chances and were left to shooting from distance, until the second goal. A ball into the box kindly fell to the striker who was able to poke home from close range.
The half closed out with little else of note and Didsbury were certainly still in the game.
This was reiterated at half time with the team knowing that the next goal was important. However, whether the team was picturing the beer garden in an hours time Didsbury were caught out straight from the restart. Inside 2 minutes the Hulme striker was in on goal and making it 3-0.
This seemed to spark Didsbury into life and they started to put pressure on the Hulme goal. A weaving run from “Lionel” Kendri drew a foul in the area which the man mountain of Kieran Smith cooly dispatched. Didsbury had got themselves back in the game.
For a while it was finally poised but another mix up at the back allowed Hulme to extend their lead back to 3 goals. 4-1.
4 quickly became 5 as a shot weaker than Amir Khans chin somehow trickled through stand in keeper BJ’s hands and legs and over the line.
Hulme’s right midfielder who looked like he was desperate to fight anyone and anything all evening finally got the opportunity after he miscontrolled a pass which allowed Wallace to do what is known as a “Musson tackle” and dive in on him, twice. The only difference from an original Musson tackle was that the ball was actually near the guy and may have been collected during the tackle.
Hulme's answer to Gordon Ramsey was not happy with this and thought a bit of argy bargy would rectify the situation. Players started to surround the referee and the handbags came out only for the ref to award a throw in to Didbsury as it turns out the tackle was a good 2 meters off the pitch.
Didsbury seemed deflated and conceded several more poor goals, with the only potential responses coming from a wonderfully struck shot from outside the area by Rick "Skinny P" Peat, which came crashing back off the bar and a glaring miss from the charismatic Mike Corbett.
Not a good day for Didsbury and needed to be put down to one of those days as the scoreline didn’t really reflect the game, although Hulme were by far the better side. Either way this needs to be forgotten quickly with the huge semi final at the weekend.
As for Gaz? A small victory on the way home by using an old return ticket to fare dodge no doubt lifted his spirits. Genius.
Words by Jack Wallace
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
GOALS: Smith
ASSISTS: Kendrick
MAN OF THE MATCH: Smith
The Unbeatable Beaten
On a glorious Manchester evening which could potentially be classed as the first day of summer, it was not to be a first for Didsbury as they again failed to overcome a solid Hulme side.
The match will probably be remembered most as the game where Mr confident, Gaz New, was finally on the losing side whilst wearing an AFC Didsbury shirt this season. The devastation was apparent as he would no longer be able to update his Tinder profile to compare himself to Henry, Bergkamp and Viera as his fellow invincibles.
Hulme were well up for the game, tied at the top with Moss Side, they were not only out here to win but to win by a big margin to improve their goal difference, which could be crucial come the end of the season. Unfortunately, Didsbury obliged by conceding several soft goals to give Hulme a flattering full time scoreline of 8-1.
Hulme dominated possession in the first half with Didsbury looking dangerous on the break, but it always looked like like Hulme were the most likely to break the deadlock and after 15 minutes they duly obliged. 1-0.
Didsbury continued to try and play their passing style the faithful fans are so used to enjoying and it almost resulted in a goal. Started in defence it was worked out wide where Matt Darlington was played in behind the defence, he got to the goal line where he cut it back for Matt Kendrick but he couldn't quite get his feet sorted and the ball bounced harmlessly wide.
For all their possession Hulme were unable to create many chances and were left to shooting from distance, until the second goal. A ball into the box kindly fell to the striker who was able to poke home from close range.
The half closed out with little else of note and Didsbury were certainly still in the game.
This was reiterated at half time with the team knowing that the next goal was important. However, whether the team was picturing the beer garden in an hours time Didsbury were caught out straight from the restart. Inside 2 minutes the Hulme striker was in on goal and making it 3-0.
This seemed to spark Didsbury into life and they started to put pressure on the Hulme goal. A weaving run from “Lionel” Kendri drew a foul in the area which the man mountain of Kieran Smith cooly dispatched. Didsbury had got themselves back in the game.
For a while it was finally poised but another mix up at the back allowed Hulme to extend their lead back to 3 goals. 4-1.
4 quickly became 5 as a shot weaker than Amir Khans chin somehow trickled through stand in keeper BJ’s hands and legs and over the line.
Hulme’s right midfielder who looked like he was desperate to fight anyone and anything all evening finally got the opportunity after he miscontrolled a pass which allowed Wallace to do what is known as a “Musson tackle” and dive in on him, twice. The only difference from an original Musson tackle was that the ball was actually near the guy and may have been collected during the tackle.
Hulme's answer to Gordon Ramsey was not happy with this and thought a bit of argy bargy would rectify the situation. Players started to surround the referee and the handbags came out only for the ref to award a throw in to Didbsury as it turns out the tackle was a good 2 meters off the pitch.
Didsbury seemed deflated and conceded several more poor goals, with the only potential responses coming from a wonderfully struck shot from outside the area by Rick "Skinny P" Peat, which came crashing back off the bar and a glaring miss from the charismatic Mike Corbett.
Not a good day for Didsbury and needed to be put down to one of those days as the scoreline didn’t really reflect the game, although Hulme were by far the better side. Either way this needs to be forgotten quickly with the huge semi final at the weekend.
As for Gaz? A small victory on the way home by using an old return ticket to fare dodge no doubt lifted his spirits. Genius.
Words by Jack Wallace
AFC Didsbury accepts no liability for the content of this match report, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided, unless that information is subsequently confirmed in writing. If you are not the intended audience you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
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