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Official Maxtel End of Season Awards

Players Player of the Season - Matty Branson (30 apps, 32 goals)

Player's Player runner-up - Matty Beaven (23 apps, 7 goals)

Player's Player 2nd runner-up Clifford Mann (22 apps 4 goals)

Manager's Player of the Season - Tony Higgins (31 apps 9 goals)

Most Improved Players Paul Giles (22 apps, 3 goals) & Scott Christie (28 apps 13 goals)

Manager's Recognition Award Tom Hatfield (17 apps 1 goal)

Clubman of the Year - Matty Clarke (13 apps, 0 goals)

Top Goalscorer - Matty Branson (32 goals in all competitions) 

Goal of the season - Johnny Garratt (versus Queslett)

Goal of the season runner-up Matty Branson (v BCS Social)

Goal of the season runners-up  Johnny Garratt (v Northfield Hare & Hounds) & Ian Jones (v St.Annes)

Miss of the Season - Stuart Whereat (versus St. Annes)

Unofficial Maxtel End of Season Awards

Most Improved Body Odour - Adam Sewell (nominated by Ian)

Funniest Running Style - Matty Branson (nominated by Ian)

Tackle of The Season - Connor Batty

Smiler of The Season - Paul Giles

Snuggler of The Season - Paul Giles

Most Pints Of Stella Consumed - Craig Hevey

"White T-Shirt Man" Award - Denis Regan

Most Swearing At Half Time - Cliff Mann

Most Mentally Tired Player - John Higgins

Most Injured Player - Dave Lewis

Quotes Of The Season

Winner - "It's That White T-Shirt Man That Caused All This Trouble" - Saltley FC

Runner-up "Bentley Closing In" - Bob Higgins

2nd Runner-up "It's Called Fatigue Stu, Have You Ever Heard Of It..?" - John Higgins

more to follow....

Maxtel Frozen Out By Runners Up Sunday 1st May 2005 Oldhouse 5-0 Maxtel United 

Man Of The Match; Tom

An Oldhouse team determined to avenge a 7-3 defeat earlier in the season found little resistance from a patched-up and fatigued Maxtel side. Cracknell took the controversial decision to throw himself in at right back but was unable to keep out a strong header from a corner for the opener. Soon after Colin was muscled out and a fine finish across the 'keeper made it 2-0. It could have been worse Biccies making some good saves as well as a showbiz tip-over but it was his erratic handling that was causing chaos in the box before the striker ghosted in for number 3 from an acute angle.

Branno had the best Maxtel chance in the first half getting the run on the left-back but firing just wide. Podge went on a late run and shot for glory but it was not to be the day he opened his Maxtel account. Two late goals were added for promotion bound Old House and it was nothing less than they deserved against a Maxtel team that look like they can't wait for the season to end.

Maxtel Are Pants Then Whereat Bags Two Thursday 28th April 2005 Moseley Town 4-3 Maxtel United (Whereat(2), Moss)

Man Of The Match; Connor

Maxtel's tough regime of eight games in seventeen days continued to cost them points as they were edged out by the odd goal for the second time in three days even though they eventually showed character to come back from 4-1 down. Bob and Biscuits were forced to ask for a rest due to exhaustion and several of the other players looked a bit leggy in the early stages as Moseley raced into a 3-1 lead. Much of the pre-match speculation was whether captain for the day Stuart Whereat would be able to play in boxer shorts as he had lost his usual pants. He silenced his critics to score from the penalty spot to make it 1-1 in the early stages though.

At half time injured skipper Bevo rang the changes under intense pressure from an incandescent Dave Lewis throwing on two youngsters. The future looks bright for Maxtel next season as these lads already being dubbed the "Beetison Babes" got stuck in to help Maxtel win the half and get their pride back. The original prodigy Matty Branson sufferered a rare miss at the death that would have salvaged an unlikely point.

Unlucky Maxtel Edged Out Again Tuesday 26th April 2005 Sedgemere 3-2 Maxtel United (Devolle, Branson)

Man Of The Match; Craig

Unlucky Maxtel Edged Out Sunday 24th April 2005 Handsworth Youth 2-0 Maxtel United 

Man Of The Match; Tom

Maxtel Back On Track Tuesday 19th April 2005 Maxtel United 4-1 Selly Oak Rangers (Branson 2, Higgins 2)

Man Of The Match; Bob 

Maxtel erased the memory of the disappointing weekend with a return to league form. They had to come from behind after a good finish from an acute angle after Cliff was sure that an another off-side decision had gone against Maxtel. Minutes before half-time Maxtel showed the character to get back level when Bob finally found the back of the net at the third attempt for his first goal since February. Maxtel took the game by the scruff of the neck in an incredible five minute spell in the second half they scored three times, Branno helping himself to his 30th & 31st of the season and Bob bagging the other. Maxtel held on in poor playing conditions to complete the league double over Selly Oak in a game everybody played in a good spirit (except Cliff).

Langley Get Helping Hand Sunday 17th April 2005 Langley 4-1 Maxtel United (Branson)

Man Of The Match; Dave Lewis

Langley deservedly progressed to another final even though the referee got at least one major decision wrong. Justin had been suffering sleepless nights all week but had to make tough decisions on team selection. Johnny Garratt’s brilliant performance on Thursday just giving him the starting place ahead of Ian. In goal Clarkey was out for the season so Biscuits got his first start in goal for five weeks.

Maxtel had no complaints about going in at 0-1 down, an error from Biscuits allowing a simple header for the opener. This had almost been cancelled out by Scott Christie and Matty Branson as excellent efforts were tipped over from tight angles. Almost immediately after the break an otherwise excellent Tom was robbed of possession and the ball was lashed home for 2-0. Soon after a puzzling free-kick was awarded, and from it, the ball was forced home after a ricochet. Unfortunately, the officials failed to acknowledge the off-side. This left Justin fearing the worst as four games in eight days for Maxtel looked like it could take it’s toll especially when skipper Bevo had to be carried off. After a generous penalty was converted, Maxtel restored some pride with Johnny Garratt setting up Branno for a consolation in the dying minutes.

Maxtel Suffer Late Collapse Thursday 15th April 2005 Queslett 3-1 Maxtel United (Garratt)

Man Of The Match; Johnny Garratt

A patched up Maxtel came close to recording an incredible win against Queslett in their last game of the season. Queslett dominated the opening period but even so were restricted to long-range efforts. A speculative shot from Giles almost embarrassed the goalie at the other end. Johnny Garratt lit up the pitch throughout and guaranteed a man of the match award with a phenomenal 40 yard strike that flew past a stunned ‘keeper who was only a few yards off his line. It looked like Maxtel would complete the smash and grab but after Clarkey limped off the home side seized the initiative scoring from two set-pieces. There was even time for a third after a very dubious challenge on the stand-in keeper Biscuits.

Neighbours Take Unlikely Point Tuesday 13th April 2005 Maxtel United 2-2 Knowle & Bentley Heath (Branson 2)

Man Of The Match; Biscuits 

Bevo Double Not Enough Sunday 11th April 2005 Maxtel United 3-4 Moseley Town (Beaven(2), Branson)

Maxtel's run of six straight wins came to an end in a disappointing performance here this morning. Maxtel took the early initiative, Bevo's cool finish from Matty Branson's pass put them in front. Then Branno himself chased down a back-pass, robbed the keeper and claimed a second. At the end of the first half Moseley fought back with two goals in 58 seconds as the Maxtel defence switched off firstly from a long throw. The bombardment continued in the second half and Moseley's set pieces paid off as they finished the stronger to win 4-3. All this after Bevo had restored the lead for Maxtel with a crisp finish. To add to Gaffer's woes Tom, Stu & Dave all picked up knocks.

Maxtel March On

Sunday 4th April 2005 Sedgemere 'b' 2-3 Maxtel United (own goal, Jones, Branson)

Matt'll Do Nicely For Cracknell

Sunday 27th March 2005 Northfield Hare & Hounds 1-2 Maxtel United (Beaven, Garratt)

Maxtel rounded off a fantastic March with another away win against one of the leading pack with a 2-1 victory against Northfield Hare & Hounds - only their second league defeat of the season. Team news and Gilo and Branno were away so the gaffer tried a new-look 4-5-1 formation for the first time this season. This paid off as early as the 9th minute when Maxtel won a free-kick after a home player shouted "leave it". He was quickly made to regret this as Bob took it quickly for Bevo to drive the ball home before the Northfield wall had even got sorted out. Northfield threw everything at Maxtel for the rest of the half but couldn't find a way through. Cliff was unlucky not to double the lead with a header from a corner.

In the second half Maxtel withstood the presure until finally the home side struck from a corner. Hare & Hounds were now favourites to go on and win it especially when they were given a penalty eight minutes from time. Clarke guessed right for Maxtel in goal to push the ball away in some style. In injury time Maxtel completed a fine win when against the run of play they broke up the right hand side. Substitute Johnny Garratt pounced for his second of the season to send the visitors into raptures.

left; Smiler of the week, right; spot the penalty area

Leaders Suffer Reverse

Sunday 20th March 2005 Patrick Kavanagh 2-4 Maxtel United (Branson(2), own goal, Whereat)

Maxtel closed put more pressure on the leaders of league II with a workmanlike 4-2 victory, Matty Branson claimed another two goals to make it 16 in his last eleven appearances.

In an early kick-off it was Maxtel that "got out of bed" first taking the lead when Bob's shot was parried only in the path of Matty Branson who gobbled up the chance. Maxtel cold hardly believe it when they raced into a 3-0 lead as early as the 26th minute, an unfortunate own goal and another clinical strike from the youngster putting the visitors in dreamland. At the other end a certain penalty was avoided when to his credit the number 7 stayed on his feet.

Seconds after the break the home side did get their penalty, emphatically converted which was the cue for a panicky five minutes in which PatKav reduced the deficit to 3-2. However, man of the match Matty Beaven took responsibility calming the team down and winning some important free-kick's to take the sting out of the onslaught. The game was effectively decided when Stuart Wheareat pounced from close-range after a quality delivery from Paul Giles. As PatKav went gung-ho in the dying minutes, there were further chances for Scott Christie, Sub Johnny Garratt and Branno again but none of them could put the extra gloss on what was a fantastic result.

Lewis Opens Account

Sunday 13th March 2005 Maxtel United 2-0 Rowood (Giles(pen), Lewis)

Dave picked up his first senior goal for Maxtel to seal a 2-0 victory over promotion hopefuls Rowood and complete a league double over them this season.

Maxtel almost got off to a dream start after 20 seconds when Branno raced through but his shot was off- target after which the match settled into a midfield battle. Rowood got a clear sight of goal after a fluid move but their man also blasted over. Midway through the half Maxtel struck twice in ten minutes. First Scott Christie tempted the defender into a reckless challenge, Paul Giles coolly converted from the spot in the absence of regular penalty taker Stuart Wheareat. Soon after a quality delivery from a corner failed to be cleared and Dave Lewis smashed home from close range despite a niggling knee injury.

In the second half Maxtel continued to defend well and play on the break. The next Rowood strike of note come from long-range and produced a super tip-round from Clarkey who replaced Biccies after he suffered a knock. Rowood's last chance to get in the game came after a dubious penalty award for handball. The big 'keeper guessed right to keep out the strike and ensure a comfortable last fifteen minutes.

Christie Bags Treble

Sunday 20th February 2005 Maxtel United 6-0 Marsdon Lions (Christie (3), Mann, Higgins, Branson)

Scott Christie claimed a second half hat-trick to see off Marsdon Lions and boost Maxtel's promotion hopes.

After a frustrating first half the score was stuck at 0-0, both sides had their share of goalmouth chances but were still getting to grips with a frozen pitch. Marsdon's game plan was to stifle the midfield and they stuck to their plan well. At half-time Justin demanded an improvement and got it within a minute. Branno picked the ball up down the left-hand side and laid a tap-in for Bob before a Marsdon player had really touched the ball in the second half. Minutes later it was two as Scott opened his account for the day with his right peg, a nasty bounce not helping the 'keeper.

After that the outcome never was in doubt with Cliff and Mark marshalling the defence and midfield respectively, it was Marsdon's turn to get frustrated and one of their number saw red for hammering the ball at the injured Bevo. Christie bagged another soon later following Craig's call from the sidelines to "Leather it!" and Cliff emphatically finished from a yard out for number four. A great ball from Mark allowed Branno to pick up goal number five and Scott added the icing onto the richest of cakes with a late strike from an acute angle.

Matt'll Do Nicely For Cracknell!
Sunday 30^th January 2005 Selly Oak Rangers 1-3 Maxtel United (Branson 2, Mann)

Man Of The Match – Matty Branson

Maxtel erased the memory of a disappointing couple of weeks to take all three points from this tricky away fixture and put an end to any lingering relegation fears this season. Matt Branson claimed another two goals to move past 20 for the season after a disappointing first half for the strikers. Playing uphill and into the wind, Maxtel still carved out several clear-cut chances put just couldn't find the final touch. At the other end, a shot whistled just over after Maxtel fell asleep for a short corner and the re-called Biccies had to field several shots admittedly from long-range. Maxtel thought they should have had a penalty mid-way through the first half but the referee waved away appeals after Branno was clattered.

The visitors went about their task with more urgency in the second half and took the lead, Branno finishing after good work down the left. Minutes later the off-side trap was sprung to release the youngster for his second, however Selly Oak hit back straight from the kick-off with their best move of the match. Cliff sealed the points with a towering header fifteen minutes from the end. Mark limped off in the dying seconds to give Justin cause for concern.

Set-Back For Smilers
Maxtel United 0-2 Saltley Sunday 16^th January 2005

Maxtel were defeated by a goal in each half from a motivated Saltley side. They have now completed a double over the Maxtel boys after a controversial 3-1 home win earlier in the season that became dubbed as the 'Battle of Broadway Avenue'. There was never ever a chance of a repeat of those ugly scenes as both teams played the game fairly. 

The danger signs were there in the first quarter of the game, Saltley somehow managing to hit the woodwork from close range. At the other end a header from Cliff flew just over and one chance was cleared off the line. 

left; the Maxtel target men lose their markers.

Saltley took the lead after a mix-up in midfield gave their man a chance to drill home from the edge of the box. Justin called for more application in the second half but Saltley continued to turn the game into a scruffy, long-ball type of game as their target man was their best player. Maxtel knew it wasn't to be their day when Matty Branson rounded the 'keeper after he'd handled outside the box. Despite putting the ball in the net, play was pulled back for the foul and the free-kick couldn't be converted.

Apology: Other news in brief and Stuart Whereat was quick to play down suggestions that he criticized team-mates performance in the 2-0 defeat against Saltley. In an exclusive e-mail he confirmed that he was far from happy with the performance but nevertheless his comments were off the record and taken out of context. He also wished to place on record that he never criticized the management at any point. I am happy to set the record straight.

Branno Flashpoint Storm Overshadows Win

Sunday 9th January 2005 Maxtel United 8-2 Marsdon Lions (Branson(2), Higgins(2), Beaven, Mann, Christie, Jones)

Man Of The Match – Scott Christie

Here's the action..

above, left to right; Branson teases the defence, Giles winds up for a shot.

below, left to right; Mann scores Maxtel's 6th from a corner, Hevey loses his marker.

St. Annes Crucified(Again)

Sunday 2nd January 2005 Maxtel United 7-0 St. Annes (Branson(3), Christie(2), Jones, Hatfield)

Man Of The Match – Tony Higgins

Maxtel completed a 12-0 aggregate rout of St. Annes either side of Christmas, Matty Branson boosting his goals haul by 5 over the two games - he must want to play them every week! Team news and Mark Fortner made a first team return after Justin's transfer window swoop and Thomas Hatfield made a first start at left back replacing Colin Hevey and Paul Giles. Craig Hevey also made a rare appearance but was given a watching brief by the gaffer.

It took Maxtel 15 minutes to get their passing going but as soon as they did they cut the defence to ribbons, Bob involved in laying on the first three goals to give the likes of Branson and Christie simple finishes. All of this after Stuart Whereat had flopped from the penalty spot when his hesitant strike rebounded to safety off the post - pictured below. Later he blamed the spot.

pictured above - Stuart Whereat flopping from the penalty spot with his hesitant strike

Fortunately, this didn't matter as Maxtel took control after the break. Branson and Christie helped themselves to goals, before a bullet header from Ian and a long range effort from Tom to open his account made it seven. There was a late cameo from substitute Matty Clarke who caught the last man in possession but was denied by the goalkeeper's legs. The only disappointment came for Johnny Garratt whose strike was eventually ruled out for offside.

St. Annes Crucified

Sunday 12th December 2004 St. Annes 0-5 Maxtel United (Branson(2), Whereat, Jones(2))

Man Of The Match – Ian Jones

Team news first and Podge continues in goal despite conceding two last week, Colin Hevey returns to left back with Denis injured and with Bevo away, Dave Lewis fills in and the armband goes to Gilo.

Maxtel made much the brighter start in this early kick-off due to the Vile versus Small Heath fc match and raced into a 2-0 lead. First Branno laid on the assist for Ian after good work from Scott Christie down the left. The emphatic finish netting the solid pro his first of the season. It was soon two when Branno beat the offside trap two finish at the near post. This spurred the home side into action and they began to get a foothold in the game with some controlled possession hitting the post after one move. The referee was forced to send off the home 'keeper just before half time after Dave's blistering pace saw him race clear only to be cynically hauled down - the free-kick was helped over meaning it stayed 2-0 at half time.

Into the second half and Whereat made the points safe after Maxtel hit St. Annes on the break to claim an incredible 5th goal in as many matches. This week when given time and space he made no mistake unlike his horrendous miss recently. There was still time for Jones and Branson to pick up their second goals of the match but the real disappointment was for Dave Lewis who made a magical run only to see his shot rebound clear off the inside of the post meaning he is still one of the few players yet to score for Maxtel - he surely could not get much closer than this..?

Bentley Opens Maxtel Account

Sunday 5th December 2004 Maxtel United 7-3 Oldhouse Athletic  (Branson(2), Christie, Whereat, Beaven, Higgins(a), Bentley)

Man Of The Match – Simon Bentley 

Team news and Denis made a return to the first team, Podge was preferred to Biccies in goal. Maxtel raced into a 3-0 lead early doors thanks to a header from Scott Christie (his 7th of the season), another Branno strike after a wonderful through ball and Simon's first goal for the club superbly taken. Unfortunately Denis 'white t-shirt man' had to limp off meaning Biccies came on at left back. This immediately triggered panic at the back with some bizarre dives from Podgey before Oldhouse finally got a foothold in the game - 3-1 at half time.

Stuart Whereat claimed his 4th in four games early on in the second half with a flashing header to put Maxtel in control. However, United made life difficult for themselves conceding twice mid way through the second half. Despite Biccies attempts to run the clock down there was time for a grandstand finish. Branson netted his 11th of the season and then expertly laid on a tap in for Bob who had earlier hit the bar. The real highlight was Bevo's 45 yard lob which had the goalkeeper couldn't claw out much to the delight of the Club Skipper.

Maxtel Crumble Under Pressure

Sunday 28th November 2004 Maxtel United 4-7 Patrick Kavanagh  (Branson, Christie, Whereat, Giles)

Man Of The Match – Scott Christie

Maxtel failed to continue their winning run against top of the table PatKav. Another 11 goals were shared out at home meaning that in just six matches at Widney Road this season, spectators have been treated to an incredible thirty-nine goals. Team news and Cliff Mann was drafted in to replace Denis ‘white t-shirt man’ Regan to bolster the defence.

Branson put Maxtel 1-0 up with his ninth of the season after expertly rounding the ‘keeper after a short back-pass. Christie got the second for his third goal in five matches, but inbetween two goals had gone in at the other end from set-pieces. Biccies let the ball squirm loose after colliding with the post to set up PatKav’s 3^rd and it was 4-2 before half time after a free header was converted.

Bevo At The Double

Sunday 21st November 2004 Maxtel United 5-3 Handsworth Youth (Whereat(pen), Beaven(2), Higgins(A), Branson)

Man Of The Match - Matthew Beaven

Maxtel built on last weeks win to record back to back victories for the first time this season and progress through to the later stages of the cup. Skipper Beaven was one of several players to put on an excellent display bagging his first two goals of the season along the way. 

The first goal came when the offside trap was sprung to great effect for the striker to drill past a helpless Biccies.(0-1). Stu restored parity from the spot, a penalty converted for the 3rd week running by different players to make it 1-1. Into the second half and Biccies can only help a corner onto the striker's head which squirms in despite Stu's efforts on the line. (1-2). A minute later, Bevo opens his account for the season after Bob's challenge on the 'keeper allowed the ball to run free (2-2)

A sublime chip from Bob puts Maxtel in front for the first time - or was it a cross?(3-2). Then a 2 goal cushion at last delivered by Bevo after the visitors defence stopped waiting for an offside. (4-2). There was still time for hesitation at the back which allowed the front man to nip in and set up a grandstand finish. (4-3). But Branno seals the win in the dying seconds after being afforded acres of space.(5-3)

Den Back As Magical Maxtel Turn On The Style

Sunday 14th November 2004 Rowood 1-2 Maxtel United (Giles(pen), Christie)

Man Of The Match - Denis Regan

Maxtel won a memorable battle to take the points home from top of the table Rowood with Denis Regan making his first start of the season after injury.

Rowood came out all guns firing, with several strong tackles being given the benefit of the doubt in the first ten minutes by stand in referee Lee and they came close to scoring when a 20 yard shot was deflected onto the bar. The Maxtel back-line defended the box superbly and were starting to create chances at the other end. When young Matty Branson sprung the offside trap and was hauled down a penalty award was inevitable. With Justin and Stu not on the pitch, Paul Giles took responsibility to convert Maxtel's second penalty in as many weeks.

In the second half with the clock running down, the home side became more frustrated, Branson was involved throughout as Maxtel sensed a second goal but was foiled on even after going round the 'keeper. It finally came after a disgraceful challenge on Simon, the ref however played a good advantage and Scott Christie raced through to pick up his fifth goal of the season despite the goalie getting his fingertips to it. A nerve-racking finish was set up after Rowood finally netted from a free-kick routine. Despite some scares Maxtel held on to claim the three points that their hard graft merited.

Cracknell Spot-On But Maxtel Crash Out

Sunday 7th November 2004 Sedgemere 'A' 5- 1 Maxtel United (Cracknell - pen)

Man Of The Match - Justin Cracknell

Justin coolly slotted home a penalty late on but it was not enough to save Maxtel from defeat in this fiercely contested cup clash. 

The home side edged ahead in the first half, a cleverly worked free-kick gave them a free shot at goal that squeezed in via biccies fingertips and the post. Maxtel got their pride back with a battling performance and carved out two opportunities of their own late in the first half. Another chance went begging when Gilo sportingly put the ball out of play so that their player could get treatment.

In the second half the gulf in class between the sides started to show with the home side slicking the ball about with some style. The second goal came when an offside player was judged inactive only for him to charge the ball down and create the headed chance for the second striker. The goal stood and the contest effectively ended minutes later when the striker got to the by-line and pulled the ball back. With Biccies stranded Simon did well to get back and cover the line but could only help the ball on to the forward for a tap-in. A fourth well-taken goal followed before Bob was hauled down for a penalty. Justin decided to take responsibility and drilled home the spot-kick with ease. There was still time for a late penalty at the other end but the main positive was that Maxtel battled away, kept their pride and gave 110%

Salt Rubbed In Lee's Wounds

Sunday 31st October 2004 Saltley 3 a-a 1 Maxtel United (Branson)

Match Abandoned After 65 minutes

This match was abandoned amid ugly scenes that brought shame on both sets of players and is already being dubbed 'the battle of Broadway Avenue'. 

Matty Branson scored his first goal in his new boots though. 

Pictured below : Matty Branson reflects on ugly scenes (boots not pictured)

Bob Finishes Expertly At Both Ends

Sunday 17th October 2004 Maxtel United 2-2 Queslett (Higgins(A), Christie)

Man Of The Match; Adam Sewell

Bob planted a glancing header past Podgey but later made up for it by setting Maxtel on the road to recovery with a well taken lob in this League II clash earlier today.

Earlier Justin had responded to family criticism in the week by wielding the axe on 'keeper Biccies and Colin Williams. Scott Whealdon came closest to opening the scoring, a wicked shot just curled outside the post with the keeper beaten. Many of the crowd thought this was in.

pictured below left - Scott Whealdon shot can be made out shaving the woodwork, right Branson restarts game after 1st goal

Queslett took the lead with a goal midway through the first half and shortly after the break this advantage was doubled, Sewell was helpless as Bob expertly glanced a header past him from a corner. He made up for this emphatically with a sweet lob after a goalmouth scramble to smear egg on the visiting goalie's face and haul Maxtel back into the game. Inspired substitutions from Justin resulted in Maxtel pressure building until Scott Christie finally broke the off-side trap to drill home. There was still time for Garratt to force an acrobatic save in the dying seconds but the game finished honours even.

pictured below left - number 17 Adam Sewell was kept busy throughout, right Whealdon holds the ball up expertly

Cup Woe For Cracknell

Sunday 10th October 2004 Selly Oak Rangers 3-2 Maxtel United (Mann, Whealdon)

Man Of The Match; Scott Whealdon

Bugger.

Pace-setters Dish Out Lesson

Sunday 3rd October 2004 Maxtel United 0-3 Northfield Hare & Hounds

Man Of The Match; Dave Lewis

An unchanged side came back down to earth with a defeat to early pace-setters Northfield. Maxtel's best chance in the first half came after excellent hold up play from Scott Whealdon to play in Ian who's shot was superbly tipped onto the woodwork. Maxtel's best chance in the second half came from an excellent cross from Dave, Bob's header was blocked and Matty Branson fired the rebound just wide. Colin Hevey came off the bench to make his first appearance of the season late on.

Cup Delight For Cracknell

Sunday 26th September 2004 Maxtel United 3-2 BCS Social (Coronation Cup R1) (Christie, Branson 2)

Man Of The Match; Scott Whealdon

Maxtel defied the odds to claim a prize scalp of Premier Division 1 outfit BCS Social in the first round of the Coronation Cup, all this despite a reshuffled team due to absence, injury and further education. Adam 'Podge' Sewell reclaimed the number on shirt as Biccies filled in at right back, Cliff made his first start for months in the middle of the park, Branson dropped to the right wing in a 4-5-1 formation.

Maxtel started brightly enough but fell behind to dubious penalty award mid way through the first half. Dave Lewis adjudged to have impeded the striker - he was to make up for this in the second half with a tremendous triple block.. On the stroke of half time Podge had to be alert at the near post to keep it at one. At the other end Maxtel were creating plenty though and this bore reward when Scott Christie cut inside his marker and drilled home with 18 minutes to go despite cries for off-side, the third goal of the season for the youngster.

Maxtel changed to 4-4-2 as Kirk had to go off, Podge moving to left-back and Matt Clarke coming on in sticks as the game went into extra-time. It looked all over as in the second period of extra-time BCS took the lead for the second time. The lads kept going though and equalized, a wonderful ball from Ian was taken off Biccies head by the effervescent Matty Branson who luckily for him found the top corner. Later a magnificent solo effort from the youngster put Maxtel ahead with minutes to go resulting in squeals of delight from player-manager Justin Cracknell. Maxtel survived a late bombardment even with ten men after Matty Beaven had seen red for a professional foul. 

Everyone gave 100% for the result, but the man of the match was awarded by coach Sewell to Scott Whealdon for his tireless competing for ariel balls.

Gaz Signs Off

Sunday 19th September 2004 Knowle & Bentley Heath Jubilee 3-1 Maxtel United (Branson)

Man Of The Match; Stuart Whereat

Johnny Garratt signed off his Maxtel career for the time being but not before giving a penalty away in a disappointing first defeat of the season for Maxtel. 

Many thanks from the playing and coaching staff for his efforts over the past two and a bit seasons. Abramovich of Maxtel said "he has been a great servant to the club"

pictured left - Johnny Garratt- "great servant"

Matty Branson continued his goal in every game scoring record but otherwise there was little for the fans to cheer. With the game balanced at 0-0 Branson was hauled down in a cynical challenge but the referee bizarrely decided only a yellow card for punishment. In an indifferent refereeing performance, Maxtel were also denied a penalty for deliberate handball on the line. Knowle picked a third goal late on when Maxtel were chasing the game, later a hung-over Paul Giles said "It was their day lads, they will enjoy that one, in fact let them enjoy it"

Maxtel Nick A Point In Shambles

Sunday 12th September 2004 Maxtel United 4-4 Sedgemere 'B' (Branson, Christie, Higgins A., Whereat)

Man Of The Match; Antony Higgins

Much of last week's good football was not repeated as Maxtel bungled a 3-1 advantage to end up relieved to take a point. Maxtel fell behind to a glancing header but responded with two goals before half time. Matty Branson continued his scoring form with a cool finish, many of the visiting supporters thought the lad was offside but were over-ruled by the referee in a controversial incident. Maxtel then put together the best move of the match finished off by Scott Christie to take a 2-1 advantage into the break.

The lead was extended somewhat against the run of play in the second half, Bob sweeping home after good work down the left to open his account for another season. However, the danger signs had been there at the back and Maxtel collapsed to concede three goals in ten minutes to trail 4-3 with still 25 minutes to play. One of the few shots Biccies saved was pulled back for handball anyway, the frustration of this led him to charge up-field in a stupid run. Maxtel survived this and a few more scares at the back but kept working to their credit and salvaged a point from a set-piece, a long throw flicked in by Stuart Whereat to claim a point that they barely deserved. 

Bob was voted man of the match for having a hand in three of the goals but Maxtel will have to defend better all over the park to make the most of the excellent work from the goal-getters so far this season.

Branson's Jungle Cats Put Lions In A Pickle*

Sunday 5th September 2004 Marsden Lions 0-6 Maxtel United (Branson(3)hat-trick, Hevey, Garratt, Christie)

Man Of The Match; Paul Giles

Maxtel got off to a brilliant start in league II with a 6-0 walloping of Marston Lions, Matty Branson weighing in with a hat-trick on his first competitive start. 

Paul Giles and Craig Hevey made up a new-look midfield with skipper Matt Beaven dropping into defence to cover injuries. The home side were off the pace from the start and were lucky not to go behind from a corner before Branson latched on to a through ball and drilled past the 'keeper to make it 1-0. Soon after Craig scored a brilliant 30 yard strike to make it two and confirm to the helpless defence that it was not to be their day. There was time for more in the 36th minute Maxtel turned on the style with a slick passing move that was emphatically finished by Johnny Garratt.

The second half brought more goals, Giles was dominating the middle of the park and picked up two assists as Scott Christie and Matty Branson helped themselves to more goals in this complete and utter rout. Marston were getting ragged now and the big number six 'chopper' decided the only way to stop Bob was to lie on top of him. Fortunately, he recovered in time to see Branson complete his hat-trick after another defensive howler to put the icing on the richest of cakes and send Maxtel to the top of the fledgling table.

Justin was overjoyed at the final whistle with the performance and urged the squad to give themselves a round of applause.

Pre-Season Friendlies

Branson Hits Treble In Defensive Farce

Sun 15th August 2004 - Bourneville Celtic 5-5 Maxtel United

Maxtel's warm up games continued with a topsy-turvy draw on a warm Sunday morning. Preparations were not ideal, one party travelling to the game complained that they had been sent to three different venues - Wagon Lane, Billesley and then eventually Yardley Wood. On arrival squad members were less than overjoyed to find that they were also expected to mark the pitch out with plastic cones.

Once the game kicked off Bourneville settled the quicker racing into a five minute lead, blasting past a flat-footed Biccies after five minutes. Soon they doubled their money this time, a slick move down the left, the shot just finding the bottom corner. By now injured Dennis Regan was shouting for more effort and Gaz duly obliged to pull one back. Maxtel were 3-1 down at half-time though.

In the second half, Maxtel chipped in with three quick goals in the first fifteen minutes, two from Matty Branson to storm into a 4-3 lead. However Craig and Stu were looking far from happy in the centre of a wobbly defence and the home side capitalised to regain the lead, the fifth coming from a quick throw that shockingly three attackers reacted to unmarked. It was left to the excellent Matty Branson to salvage a draw with header to complete his hat-trick over the hapless 'keeper. Maxtel will have to defend much better than this to avoid a relegation battle in League II next season.

Biccies 'Cheat' Storm Overshadows Branson Strike

Thurs 5th August 2004 - Church Hill 1-1 Maxtel United

Maxtel's first friendly warm-up ended in a 1-1 draw in Redditch on Thursday evening against a young Churchill side but threatened to boil over into ugly scenes in the closing stages. A healthy Maxtel squad including Craig made the journey for their first realistic contest of the pre-season. Podge was selected to go in sticks and performed well throughout commanding his box and marshalling the back-line as the opposition forced a succession of corners. Bob & Gilo slipped into a new-look midfield as Scott & Matt Branson were tried as the front pairing.

Maxtel made the breakthrough when a sublime through ball from Colin H found the youngsters from Redditch hopelessly on the back foot. Matty Branson showed lightning pace and a cool finish to slot home and claim his first goal in Maxtel colours. 

The second half was full of controversy, the referee got the full force of an apoplectic Bob after he ruled out a Maxtel goal. Minutes later he gave a free-kick which is still puzzling players from both sides even now. His biggest error though came when Biccies, a second half substitute caused a flashpoint when he was alleged to have handled to prevent a through ball reaching the striker whom was clean through. The officials though decided that no offence had taken place. In the face of some fierce criticism Biccies later tried to claim "It was my head.." but later conceded that comment was total bull s***.

A Short History Lesson - Dateline : April 2003... 

The season had ended for Maxtel but they were still playing for pride with this friendly against local rivals. To set the scene the game against Red Diamonds was all but lost. Diamonds had dominated throughout, scored twice and even squandered a penalty kick. Enter Dennis Mulverhill to set up a grandstand finish, netting with five minutes to go. With time quickly running out, Biccies came forward for an injury time corner to be taken by Lee. As the ball came in, it was not cleared at the back post. The run from the 'keeper had been timed to perfection and he pounced on the ball to drill it home into the bottom corner with unerring accuracy to salvage a draw that Maxtel barely deserved...

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