Season Report 2005-06

Champs Cruise It 3-0

Billy had a good shot. I know he would want it to be mentioned.

Man of the Match - Clarkey kept the scoreline respectable in the last half hour

Moan of the Match - Some thought Sedge's 1st was offside - it probably wasn't

Quote of the Match - Biccies "Stu looks fatigued"

Quote of the Match 2 - Simon "Stu always looks fatigued"

Shot of the Match - Billy's first half strike was too hot for the keeper to handle

New Inns Suffer Rare Defeat

Maxtel finished New Inns slim hopes of the title with a superb display of battling football in a side with six changes from Sundays team. Cliff the most notable name on the team sheet after a long absence. New Inns had made Raddlebarn rd a fortress this season and it was also the nightmare venue where maxtel drew 2-2 with Selly Oak. Tonight's performance erased that memory, the real maxtel showing themselves. Going uphill and into the wind in the first half, Maxtel were expecting to be pinned back for long periods and certainly were. However a massive kick from ever-present Clarkey caused confusion and the hapless defender headed past his own keeper under pressure from Branno. Maxtel finished the half stronger, Ian had a chance cleared off the line, Stu couldn't convert a back-header from close range and another shot was deflected just wide.

In the second period New Inns showed why they had won so many matches this season pushing Maxtel back and limiting them to the occasional breakaway. It was starting to look like the alamo with a long throw cleared off the line, the follow-up somehow hitting the post and clarkey throwing himself in to the corners to save at least twice. Just when it seemed the back-line would crumble, sub Martin and Branno combined superbly to break through and win a penalty. Stu stepped up and made no mistake to seal the points with 16 minutes to go and give satisfaction to the gaffer.

Man of the Match - the whole of the back four and Clarkey gave everything

Moan of the Match - New Inns thought they had a stonewall penalty for handball

Quote of the Match - "He gave a foul throw you dopey bastard"

Quote of the Match 2 - "2-0 to the dopey bastards"

Save of the Match - Clarkey from close range during one of the scrambles

Shot of the Match - a new inns free-kick whistled just over in the 1st half

Maxtel Edged Out By classy Queslett

Maxtel grabbed a shock lead in the first proper attack of the match after 16 minutes of midfield battling. Bob pounced on a through ball, waltzed past the keeper and sent a tame looking shot goal-wards. It had enough on it to make the defender's effort to  get back and clear impossible and he couldn't prevent the visitors going in front. Bob's 4th goal in the last three games.

In the 2nd half when Queslett got the slope and the wind at their back it became apparent that they were the better side and they put Maxtel under long spells of pressure. They scored twice from corners in quick succession to turn the tie around. At the other end Planty played a great ball through to Simon, his first touch was good but the shot was saved by the 'keeper. With the game getting stretched Queslett had a chance to extend their lead but Clarke made a great stop after the striker turned biccies inside out and shot on his right. In the dying minutes Tommy put in a great cross that Bob met on the volley but he couldn't quite direct it on goal. Mikey also had a late run and shot but was denied.

Man of the Match - Billy - did not deserve to finish on losing side

Moan of the Match - two of our best players had to go off injured

Save of the Match - late on Clarke's save from the striker who looks like the geezer from the AA advert

Maxtel Claim Double Over Local Rivals

Maxtel cruised through this match to complete a league double over relgation haunted Rowood. Col Hevey made a welcome return to first team action and there was a rare start for Lee up front - the big man also taking the armband. Maxtel started very brightly and won a penalty kick inside 45 seconds. Lee stepped up to drill home to mark his testimonial season. There were very few scares at the other end and only a couple of dubious off-sides to debate in the first half.

In the second half yet again, Lee got the best out of the keeper with a dipping shot. Bob made the points safe after racing through, the defender made a hash of it and the striker went round the goalie to make no mistake and move clear of Gilo in the top goalscorer stakes. Later Bob turned provider for Martin but despite a great finish he was mysteriously flagged off-side. There was still tome for Bob to break through again but this time the keeper was able to save. Late on substitute Biccies petulantly kicked the ball away, he was stamped on for his trouble but referee for the day Billy turned a blind eye to both incidents.

Man of the Match - Lee - great pen, caused them problems all day

Moan of the Match - There should have been a late red for a nasty stamping incident

Maxtel Bounce Back With Bob's Brace

Maxtel erased the memory of last week with a solid performance to gain a 2-0 victory. Planty made his first start and Dave took over the armband as the clocks going forward caught a few players out. Maxtel started very brightly and after Stuart and Tommy swapped a few passes on the edge of the box, Bob was released down the left and made no mistake to fire Maxtel ahead. Soon after a similar move had the same result Bob making it two out of two - Planty with a superb assist. Just before the break Clarkey was called in action to stop a venomous shot in a rare Moseley attack.

A header from a corner was one of the few scares at the back for Maxtel in the second half but Clarke did well to parry. Overall Maxtel looked in control especially Mike who had an assured game at centre half but had to limp off in the late stages. Skipper for the day Dave had a run and shot but it flew just over the bar. Later a brilliant cross from Jonah was met by Martin but the keeper managed to scramble back and grab it on the the line at the second attempt. Bob was denied a hat-trick when his shot slammed against the post mid way through the second half.

Man of the Match - Bob - centimetres away from hat-trick

Save of the Match - Clarkey tipped one over at the end of the first half

Moan of the Match - Many players thought Maxtel should have had a penalty after Martin was tripped

Quote of the Match - "This lot are better than Selly Oak and they can kill you" - Gaffer

Skipper Watch - attempts at goal - 2, on target -2 , goals -1

Basement Boys Double Points Tally As Maxtel Slump.

Maxtel crumbled under a second half onslaught from relegation certanties Selly Oak on a terrible playing surface here at Raddlebarn Road. The early signs were good, Biccies stepped up to the plate to take the armband with Bevo away and tried to lead by example throughout. Maxtel looked to be cruising when Simon Bentley's controlled shot deflected into the bottom corner. Soon after the visitors won a penalty which Stu Whereat converted despite the keeper getting a hand to it. At the other end Clarkey had to be at his best to tip round after the back-line failed to clear.

To Selly Oak's credit they never quit despite their league position and Maxtel usually make life difficult for themselves anyway. A controversial free-kick for high feet was awarded and the resulting strike found it's way through the wall and all the way into the back of the net. Then midway through the second half a long ball fell nicely for the front man who converted in style to make it 2-2. Both teams had a chance to win it but Billy couldn't force the ball home from close range for Maxtel after a great cross from Planty & a Rangers chance flew just wide. Scott Christie made a late appearance to return to first team action.

Man of the Match - Billy in the first half - no-one in the second

Save of the Match - Rangers keeper tipped over Bob's early shot in style

Moan of the Match - the whole of the second half

Quote of the Match - "Oi lads - what are you watching that other game for..?" - Billy

Skipper Watch - won the toss, attempts at goal - 0, clearances - 5, free-kicks conceded - 1

Birthday Boy Giles Saves Point

Martin and Matty Branson returned to the side with Dave Lewis and Bob dropping out through injury and absence. Bentley continued up front but Maxtel started very quietly. VIP weren't much better but did capitalize on a dodgy bounce to steal in for the 1st goal. Soon after, Clarke made a good save but the ball squirmed away, Biccies, filling in at right-back was adjudged to have pulled back the striker and a penalty was awarded. However, Clarke came to the rescue saving as he did in the return fixture - he must wish to face a penalty from VIP every week! At the other end Tommy came close with an attempted lob that drifted just wide and Billy and Stuart were off-target with headers. Just before half-time VIP looked to have sealed the points with a free-kick that arced straight in.

In a clean game, Maxtel went about climbing the mountain they had given themselves. To their credit they never quit Bentley came close to connecting with a ball in the box but just couldn't get there. Maxtel found a glimmer of hope when Branson turned the ball home from close range after good work down the right from Gilo. Stuart thought he had levelled soon after but his header was ruled out for off-side this time. With Maxtel throwing bodies forward gaps were starting to appear and one strike thumped against the bar for VIP. However, it was to be Gilo's day on his 32nd birthday when his 89th minute free-kick deceived the goalkeeper and found the bottom corner to make it 2-2 after a memorable late comeback.

Man of the Match - Tommy was brilliant but Giles gets it for scoring one and making one.

Save of the Match - Clarke denied them from the spot yet again

Moan of the Match - There was no-one to cheer and boo the team announcement with Bob not there

Cross of the Match - Biccies linked up with Stu on a free-kick & sent over a good ball

Brilliant Bentley Blasts Brace

With Martin suffering with Flu and Matty Branson a mystery virus it was left to Simon to continue up front with Bob slotting back in after a week away. And they didn't let the team down, Bentley opened his account for the season converting a cross from Bob with style. At the other end Clarkey had to throw himself to tip round a close range shot. The home side were struggling to penetrate other than that but Maxtel were getting at them, the keeper had to be sharp to divert a fine effort from Bob.

Two minutes into the second half Bob did get his reward, pouncing on hesitation at the back and passing the ball in into the net. This gave Maxtel the cushion they needed to play their football and many more chances were created. Planty had a long range shot destined for the top corner but it was saved and Bob went close again but the strike was tipped over. The only complaint was the persistent fouling from the Marsdon captain which the ref was very lenient with. Bentley picked up his second, running through and blasting home after a block challenge and on the last man to make it 3-0 before a scrappy goal from a corner for Marsdon.

In the 90th minute after yet another awful challenge from the Marsdon captain on Branno, some of the Maxtel following came on the pitch to protest. Although no punches were thrown the referee decided to abandon the game rather than try and get control and deliver the red card that was richly deserved. Hopefully common sense will come through and the result will stand. 

If there is a rematch, I say bring it on - I think we could get more goals

Man of the Match - Simon Bentley, although Bob was close with 2 assists and one goal, Tommy was immense & Mikey played well.

Save of the Match - Clarke pushed away one from close range and Mikey cleared off one off the line.

Moan of the Match - In my opinion the referee failed to deal with at least 5 bad tackles from the Marsdon Lions captain - later it was discovered he was allegedly his brother.

Quote of the Match - "At the end of the day..." - Everyone

Horror Challenge Overshadows Drubbing.

Early in the game Maxtel created the better opportunities, Tommy was cleverly played in but the goal bound shot was cleared off the line. Later, after a clever flick from Gilo created another chance but was dispatched just over the bar. Simon was also putting himself about well in a surprise front man role as Bob was away. Maxtel were left to rue these misses though when Queslett grabbed the initiative and scored three in ten minutes. Stu got an assist for he first off his face.

A strong run from Bevo created the goal for Maxtel when he was fouled after bursting into the box - Gilo made no mistake from the spot. Billy had a chance late on but ballooned it over even though he claimed it should have been a corner. Everyone was fed up by the end and a couple more silly goals were conceded to make it a generous 5-1 scoreline. Good luck to Queslett in the next round, for Maxtel the gaffer has to raise the lads & bounce back quickly.

Man of the Match - Simon Bentley

Shot of the Match - Their 1st goal found the top corner and went in off the woodwork

Moan of the Match - An X-rated 'tackle' three minutes from time meant that Maxtel skipper had to hobble off and is a major doubt for future games. The No. 4 was late, high and jumped in and caught Bevo even though he saw it coming and tried to get out of the way. The referee responded with a straight red card and agreed that it was one of the worst challenges seen on a Sunday. The warning signs were there earlier when a defender went right through Simon but was unpunished and Bevo was hacked down in the box. The penalty was awarded but again no card was produced for the defender who was last man.

Quote of the Match - "They've only got one good player" - Craig

Do you have a comment? - If so put it on the noticeboard, otherwise keep it shut.

St Annes Back On Track After Slump.

Justin decided to revert to a 3-5-2 formation that was tried earlier in the season against promotion hopefuls St. Annes. This was because Colin was struggling for fitness and Biccies had lost his place on a binge drinking weekend last week.  The early exchanges were scrappy and Clarkey made an excellent couple of tip rounds from early shots. The sloping pitch didn't help Maxtel get going and they were subjected to defending a succession of corners. Maxtel went 1-0 behind when the offside trap was sprung and a deflected cross fell kindly for the striker to smash home. Billy had the best chance to level but his superb header was cleared off the line.

The second half produced a better performance from Maxtel but it was hard to get momentum due to the keeper's time-wasting and the forward men being adjudged offside repeatedly. Bob hit the bar with a speculative shot and Matty Beaven went close with a dipping shot after good work down the right from Dave Lewis & Bob. Maxtel came unstuck after a dubious free-kick was headed home and a scrappy 3rd was added late on when Maxtel were throwing men forward.

Man of the Match - Tommy - kept on till the end

Save of the Match - Clarkey's punch the flattened the number 16 aswell

Shot of the Match - Bob's effort hit the bar

Moan of the Match - the home goalie was timewasting throughout

Quote of the Match - "That goalie's making our keeper look fast" - Bob

Special Guest Match Report this week from Paul 'Gilo' Giles

Maxtel Beaten in Scrappy affair.

Maxtel started the game with 3 changes from last weeks 1-0 victory. Tom was back in at left back as Biccies was unavailable, SDL replaced the injured Gilo and Stuey replaced Billy as he overslept. The early exchanges were scrappy and Clarkey made an excellent save lunging to his right to tip a header round the post. Maxtel were struggling to get their passing game going on a terrible sloping and uneven pitch. Maxtel went 1-0 behind when Clarkey spilled the ball and the attacker rolled the ball home. Maxtel looked for a response and Martin won about 5 free kicks in 5 minutes - but none of them were converted. Clarkey produced another reflex save to tip a header round the post and he collided with the woodwork - the goal is still recovering - but the team was concerned whether or not he could carry on. On the sidelines, Maxtels chairman looked keen and started warming up, informing us he is Maxtel's third choice keeper - he dropped a couple of shots from Si and tweaked his calf whilst stretching - and also he didn't have any boots - but apart from that he looked ready if required. 

Later on, a hoof over the top caught the maxtel defence square and the chance was converted to put Maxtel 2-0 behind. At half time, the gaffer mentioned communication and pride and the boys came out fired up. Mike came on the replace Stuey and shortly afterwards Billy came on for John. Following a corner, Martin forced home a scrappy goal that put Maxtel back in with a squeak. In the last 10 minutes, VIP had a couple of chances as Maxtel when all out for the equalizer, and Colin conceeded a penalty with 3 minutes to go. He assured everyone that he went for the ball - problem was that he missed it and clobbered the man. Clarkey made an excellent save from the penalty and Maxtel pushed hard for the equalizer and a rebounded Bevo effort hit the bar - but to no avail.

Man of the Match - SDL - battled hard all game and made a couple of nice runs - also kept the subs entertained with his 'quiet' battle cries and screams when he was caught late a couple of times.

Save of the Match - Clarkeys penalty save or tip round the post from a header

Joker of the Match - Abramovich looking eager on the sidlines to come on as Maxtels number 3

Moan of the Match - a couple of sloppy goals cost us dear - and Billy was a plonker for turning up late after his MoM performance last week.

Bird of the Match - mister Cadbury's Parrot

Sewell's Old Boys Silenced

Maxtel finished off a great January with a hard fought win against local rivals Knowle & Bentley Heath 

The early exchanges lacked quality to be honest with both sides failing to get a grip of midfield. Knowle were relying on their height at the back to keep out the Maxtel front-line. At the other end Maxtel survived a succession of corners and long-range shots to keep the scoresheet blank. The main talking point was Billy's total misjudgment of a ball over the top that he confidently called for.

Gilo had to go off at half time and Dave came on in the middle of the park, Maxtel took the initiative and pressed them back for long periods. Colin and Branno both came close to breaking the deadlock in goalmouth scrambles only to be denied by a keeper in top form. Maxtel thought it wouldn't be their day when a lewis shot whistled just wide and the Keeper denied Martin in some style. In the 85th minute though Matty Branson sent a looping shot goalwards which gave the keeper no chance and sealed the points.

Shot of the Match -  An early long range shot nearly caught Clarkey out

Save of the Match - Martin's header was acrobatically tipped round

Moan of the Match - Bob was clear through but the ref gave a crazy decision against Branno
Man of the Match - Billy stepped in and helped Maxtel to a 3rd clean sheet in 5

Quote of the Match - "Billy's... oh shit", 

Quote of the Match runner-up - Bics "Is there a buffet?", Clarke"I dunno do I look like a walking menu"

Lions Tamed By Clowns

Maxtel built on last weeks victory but for long periods were a shambles at the back. Usually the Maxtel boys would run through brick walls for Justin but today many of the team was below par. 

Despite that Maxtel recorded an excellent scoreline, started off by Mikey who lost his marker to smash home from one yard after a fumble from the goalie. The lead was doubled when Bob glanced home Gilo's free-kick in some style - his third of the season. There was all sorts of problems at the back for Maxtel but despite that the front men were punishing Marsdon by finishing their chances. The visitors were shellshocked when Matty Branson rode a couple of challenges to make it three nil at the break.

In the second half Maxtel conceded early meaning Stuart was brought on to organise the back line - this kept things more solid and the points were sealed when Martin raced onto a throughball and finished superbly - his fifth in his last seven appearances. Maxtel lifted their performance at the end especially Bob who had a brilliant last 30 seconds giving 110%.

Shot of the Match -  Branno's 2nd half strike smacked back off the post

Save of the Match - Martin was denied late on after a great run

Moan of the Match - The kit was soaking wet
Man of the Match - Bevo leads by example

Quote of the Match - "These shirts are soaking wet"

Queslett Humbled

Maxtel recorded their first win of 2006 with an impressive display against Queslett. Several new spectators turned up at the prospect of watching 'the entertainers' after good reports about last week and an unchanged team continued the good work shown against St. Annes.

Queslett were quickly on the back foot and when Maxtel won a free-kick on the left hand side Bob stepped up. He sent in another undefendable ball  that was glanced in by Martin in a carbon copy of the equalizer against St. Annes last week. Matty was quickly brought into the action at the other end tipping over a vicious shot but in truth the visitors were being restricted to long-range efforts and set-pieces. Maxtel doubled their lead when Branno went on a trademark run and latched onto a Bevo through ball. He got across the defender and despite the best efforts of the goalie the ball trickled over the line to the delight of the home fans.

In the second half Maxtel kept things solid but refused to sit back and created plenty more chances. Bevo had a long range shot saved and Ian and Mikey both went close with headers. In the dying moments Maxtel wrapped it up. Bob beat the off-side trap only to see his shot saved, Martin had made up the ground to follow in and slot home to claim his fifth of the season.

Shot & Save of the Match - a venomous shot knocked Clarkey off his feet as he tipped it over

Moan of the Match - Biccies thought he should have had a foul but the officials ignored claims
Man of the Match - Bevo edged out Martin

Quote of the Match - Bics - "I'll Be John Terry", John - "Alright I'll Be John Beet"

Maxtel Push Leaders All The Way

Maxtel came very close to inflicting a rare defeat on League II leaders St. Annes but came away with a creditable draw against a team that had scored 60 in ten matches up till today.

John Beet was the only change from the drubbing of Crusaders as Stu was away for the weekend. Despite being locked out of the changing rooms the visitors settled quickly and beat the off-side trap to go one up. This spurred Maxtel into action and they created a string of chances. Martin got a good save out of the goalie before turning provider for Branson who went close. The breakthrough came after Bob's excellent free-kick was glanced in by Ian giving the keeper no chance. Soon after Giles converted a penalty in style after yet another cynical challenge on Martin who gave the visitors the run-around all day.

In the second half St. Annes showed why they have won so many matches this season by coming back strongly, they were soon level after a misjudgment from Mikey. However, Maxtel kept battling in the face of some poor challenges and went in front. Biccies launched a clearance up the line that Branno turned into a great assist by beating his man, dribbling past the keeper and slotting past the man on the line for one of the most memorable goals of the season - his tenth. St. Annes drew level from a set piece and Maxtel needed all Clarkey's catching skills to survive a late bombardment but it would have been criminal if they had not taken something from the match.

Shot of the Match - The St Annes opener was un-saveable
Save of the Match - Mikey had to thank Clarkey for keeping it 3-3 after a late slip

Moan of the Match - St. Annes committed dozens of fouls
Man of the Match - Martin deserved a goal after being kicked all day

Giant-killing Maxtel Crush Crusaders

Maxtel ended a six match run without a win in style as they hammered Crusaders on their own patch. Giles put off the field problems behind him to bag a brace, Mike got his first for the club and Branno wrapped things up in a sensational first half performance that put Justin in dreamland.

This was only Maxtel's third ever win against higher league opposition and it was done in style. Mikey started the rout with a bullet header - his first for the club. At this point Biccies started to think about getting the 1-0 and how best to close out the next 75 minutes. This was done by belting the ball repeatedly into the next park and trying to steal a few yards on the throw. It soon turned out this wasn't needed anyway when Giles sent a ball that "curled out ten yards" before "wickedly swerving back into the top corner" to double the lead. The home team now started to get rattled but Maxtel continued to play their stuff in the face of rough tactics. Matty Branson got back on the goal trail after a horrendous mix-up at the back to make it 3-0 with a sweet lob to smear egg on the face of the centre-half. There was still time before the break for Giles to complete the drubbing from the penalty spot after a clumsy challenge on Bob.

In the second half John Beet came on for his debut with the luxury of a four goal lead. Although they couldn't add to the lead, the hard work was done and Maxtel with their minds on a Christmas booze-up decided to just soak up pressure. The travelling faithful wanted five and Matty went closest to providing it with a header that flashed wide.

Shot of the Match - Branno's smart finish left the stranded keeper helpless
Save of the Match - Colin hacked one off the line - one of their few efforts on target

Moan of the Match - Justin kept fetching the ball when we wanted a breather
Man of the Match - could have chosen anyone but Giles doesn't get a brace often

Quote of the Match - "Just cos you're 4-0 up, doesn't mean you're better than us"

Local Derby Ends In Stalemate

Maxtel had the better chances but had to settle for a share of the spoils in an entertaining encounter. Matty Branson thought he had given us the lead and the referee seemed to agree at the time, but after discussing it with the linesman (from bentley heath) he did a sudden u-turn and ruled it out for handball. Earlier, the youngster had outwitted the defence but his shot went the wrong side of the post. Bob also had a chance after a ball from Colin but the goalie was well-placed to collect.

In a more eventful second half, Maxtel played the better football and went in front from through Stuart's cool penalty after Matt Beaven had been hacked down in the box. Martin's shot later bounced agonisingly wide after good work down the left, and Jonah who had returned to the side after a rest saw a header flash just wide. Bentley Heath equalized with a long range shot that found the bottom corner. Despite a succession of late corners and an excellent stop from the home keeper, Maxtel were unable to find the winner that they richly deserved.  A stupid Knowle player saw red at the end for a petulant kick at Matty Beaven.

Shot of the Match - Gilo's free-kick got the best out of the keeper
Save of the Match - Clarkey denied them at the end when clean through

Moan of the Match - Branno's goal was ruled out by the linesman
Man of the Match - Matt Beaven caused them problems all day

"Spitting" Allegation Overshadows Drubbing

Senior Maxtel officials were last night set to hold crisis talks on whether an unsavoury incident in stoppage time should be reported to the league. One of the Maggies players was alleged to have spat at Mike in an off-the-ball incident in the 89th minute. According to eye-witness Tom Hatfield there was absolutely no doubt it was deliberate. To his great credit Mike didn't react although I think Billy would have done if he could have limped over there in time.

Earlier, Maxtel had been outplayed throughout the first half and were fortunate to go in at just 0-3 down. When they finally did get going it was too late to change the course of the game, but they did claim a consolation, Matty Branson's 8th of the season. Tom made his comeback, his first action since September to give one of the few positives.

Shot of the Match - Branno's strike left the goalie floundering
Moan of the Match - When Craig pointed out an off-side I stormed off
Man of the Match - Mike Wright - for not reacting under extreme provocation

Quote of the Match - Bevo - "Do you want to go on?", Biscuits - "No"

Maxtel Fail To Capitalize

After much discussion, the game was given the go-ahead despite icy conditions. Maxtel, with several key players missing asked Paul Giles to step up to the plate with the double responsibility of taking the skipper's armband and playing at sweeper - even though he'd forgotten his shorts he managed to borrow some so he didn't have to play in pants.

Yardley drew first blood in a game where Maxtel struggled to get going, scoring from a free-kick after Mike's clumsy challenge. Maxtel equalized almost immediately, Martin took advantage of some shocking defending to score past the stranded 'keeper. Soon after Maxtel started to dominate and they turned on the style to go in front. Martin and Bob closed down the disorganized back-line to force a throw. Colin took it quickly to Bob who played it back to Col to send a lovely ball into to the box. Martin chested this into Bob's path who coolly slotted home for one of the most memorable goals of the season so far.

In the second half Yardley came out like a new team and pinned Maxtel back, it was no surprise when they turned the game around with two quick goals the first from a corner. Maxtel found some spirit to carry on and get the equalizer, Martin picking up his second from close range after the visitor's failed to clear. Branno and Beaven came on to look for a late winner but Bevo blasted over and Branno's header in the last minute was also too high.

Shot of the Match - The visitor's hit one in the dying minutes but it whistled past the post
Save of the Match - Clarkey saved a venomous shot and was well positioned for the follow-up
Moan of the Match - Stu said the pitch was frozen and that we'd all break our ankles
Man of the Match - Martin Thomas - two goals, one assist

Maxtel Crumble

Maxtel's season is in danger of becoming a relegation fight after a second consecutive home defeat which means just one point from the the last nine have been picked up. Bob hit the bar with the scores at 0-0, later Matty Branson went close after good work down the left but the shot was dragged just wide. 

In the second half Billy fired over after a neat pull-back, Branno got the best out of the visiting keeper after beating the offside trap and Martin went close late on after a mix-up at the back. Stuart Whereat also had a great header from a corner but the keeper was well placed to tip it over.

Shot of the Match - Bob's strike beat the goalie but the bar denied him
Save of the Match - Clarkey saved a one on one from a tight angle
Moan of the Match - Craig wanted to take all the throw in's
Man of the Match - Bob Higgins - still closing the keeper down in the last minute when 3-0 down

New Inns Comeback

Maxtel and New Inns Harborne battled out a good match under terrible weather conditions. Maxtel came out of the blocks and raced into a 2-0 lead. Scott Christie had already got the best out the visiting 'keeper who foiled him with a one on one before he did get on the scoresheet. A wicked corner from the youngster was parried by the goalie but ricocheted in almost immediately to give him his second of the season. Soon after Matty Beaven burst through the midfield and blasted home from thirty yards with the goalkeeper's positioning suspect. New Inns got one back before half time when the quick number six raced through.

Maxtel crumpled under pressure from unbeaten New Inns in the second half and couldn't get the ball for long periods. A solo effort from the number 9 claimed the equaliser in the 69th minute. For the second week running Maxtel were denied two excellent penalty shouts, once in the first half after a handball and later when Matty Beaven was clumsily challenged with the score at 2-2. But with the ball like a bar of soap now New Inns sneaked a winning goal from a long throw in the dying minutes.

Shot of the Match - Billy's connected well with a late goal bound strike but it was blocked
Save of the Match - Clarkey made a spectacular stop to his right early on
Moan of the Match - Again, Maxtel were denied penalty claims
Man of the Match - Matty Beaven carried the fight.

Billesley Stalemate

Maxtel and Moseley Town fought out a battle to take home a point each. Justin regarded this as a good point with several key players missing Maxtel did well to shut out a team that did the double over us last year. Clear cut chances were at a premium, early on Si had a shot through a crowded area that the 'keeper just managed to scramble across to. At the other end Clarke was in top form with some quality saves and was severely tested with a succession of corners bombarding the penalty box. Stuart Whereat erased last weeks penalty nightmare with his best game for some time and Bevo returned to dominate the midfield. It was Beaven who tore down the left only to be cynically tripped by the number 5. However, the referee bizarrely waved away the penalty claims.

There was more of the same in the second half when Martin was chopped down on the edge of the box but again the referee didn't see it that way. Late on the home side flashed a shot across the box but no-one could stretch and make a telling touch. Neither team could get the breakthrough despite a succession of set pieces and the game fizzled out to a draw leaving Justin to reflect on what might have been.

Shot of the Match - Simon's deflected effort nearly eluded the 'keeper
Save of the Match - Clarkey made a super stop to prevent Giles back-header fly in
Moan of the Match - Bevo was tripped for a definite penalty but the ref denied them
Man of the Match - Clarkey, otherwise it would have been all over at half-time

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Guru Sneak Through

Maxtel were unfortunate to crash out of the cup to Guru Ravidas on penalty kicks although the fact that the match got that far was due to an indifferent refereeing performance. Maxtel started very brightly picking up where they left off last week. Dave took the arm-band and Biccies filled in at left back as Bevo was away. Up front Martin got the call in the absence of Branno. Guru took the lead in controversial circumstances, the referee over-ruling the linesman's clear indication of an off-side. Other than this the visitor's were largely restricted to long range efforts as as Maxtel started to pin them back for long periods. With twenty minutes to go Maxtel got the break through they deserved. A lovely move down the right started by Dave, who fed in Bob who crossed for Martin to make no mistake and claim his first goal in Maxtel colours.

The teams could not be separated during extra-time, Maxtel came closest hitting the bar with after a superb flick-on from Stu. However, from possible hero he became villain with a disapointing effort in the penalty shoot-out that went miles over. Giles also missed as the pressure told he shot tamely at the keeper in a 4-2 defeat on penalties. Only Scott Christie and Lee Beetison held their nerve from the spot with strikes that unfortunately don't count towards the season's scoring charts.

Shot of the Match - Scott Christie's penalty was excellent
Save of the Match - Clarkey made a super double save in the second half then had a schmiechal style rant
Moan of the Match - Maxtel were convinced the Guru goal should have been ruled out for off-side
Man of the Match - Justin decided biccies justified his selection by performing well at left-back

Branno's Awesome Four-Some!

Youngster Matty Branson ended his mini drought with a sparkling lesson in finishing to claim all four goals in this battering of Rowood. It was great to see Tommy there after the week he has had and he didn't regret coming out either as Maxtel turned on the style.

Maxtel came out and from the first whistle were determined to erase the nightmare of last week's drubbing at the hands of Medics. The home side had a 2-0 lead after twice breaking the offside trap. The Maxtel prodigy Matty Branson must have had three Shredded Wheat this morning as he made no mistake to slot home on each occasion. For the fourth goal, the 18 year old showed an impudent piece of skill to go around the beleaguered keeper. At the other end Clarkey made a fine stop diving down to his left before Rowood finally got on the scoresheet in stoppage time. New boy Martin had a goal ruled out controversially in a game marred by foul and abusive language mainly from Billy who should have his mouth washed out with soap and water.

Tommy Injury Blow

This page has learnt that one of the lads is currently suffering a nightmare injury. Tommy Hatfield is undergoing treatment after limping off in what seemed an innocuous incident in the match against Arden Athletic last week. We are saddened to hear that the lad may be facing a long lay-off. Especially as he is one of the better footballers we have not mention one of the most popular. I am sure that you will all join me in wishing him a speedy recovery and I am assured the management will be organising a collection in the not too distant future.

In other news the form book was thrown out of the window as Medics beat Maxtel 5-1 for their first win of the season. Maxtel man of the match Ian Jones scored the only goal for the visitors in a largely disappointing display.

Cup Woe For Cracknell

Justin was back at the helm but Maxtel tasted defeat for the second time this season in an entertaining encounter. The visitors led at half time after a freak goal when a clearance rebounded past the stranded Clarkey. Maxtel came closest when Matty Branson's long range effort struck the bar. Maxtel levelled midway through the second half. Bob drilling home at the second attempt after excellent work down the left by Tommy Hatfield and a mazy dribble from Branno. Arden took the lead again but with seventeen minutes to go Maxtel forced extra time, Stuart Whereat profiting from some slack defending to score on his first start of the season. 

In the second period of extra-time Arden took the grip of the match that their possession deserved, scoring within a minute after the restart after Dave was caught in possession, they made it 4-2 in the 114th minute when Maxtel started throwing bodies forward inevitably leaving gaps at the back. Cliff Mann buried a header in the dying seconds but Maxtel had left themselves too much to do.

Maxtel Pick Up First Away Points

With Justin away on for the weekend it was left to Adam 'Podge' Sewell to mastermind this game and he came up trumps to give Maxtel their first points on the road this season. Maxtel started the brighter and set the tone to dominate the first half. In the 14th minute they took the lead, Bob cleverly dummied a corner and the hapless defender sliced into his own net. In the 24th minute Maxtel doubled their lead. Giles, on his first start of the season took a quick free-kick which flew into the top corner while the 'keeper was still stood on the other post organising the wall. At the other end Matty made a brilliant save when the striker looked certain to score after the ball rebounded off the post.

In the second half Maxtel made life difficult for themselves by allowing Yardley to get two back to level the match. Tackles were flying in by this time but there was to be no repeat of the ugly scenes here against Saltley last season. Instead the visitors dug in and got their reward when a Giles throw was misjudged and fumbled by the keeper to allow Scotty to steal in and prod home. Branno could have made it four late on but hit the post when perhaps he should have played Biccies in.

Maxtel Kick-Start Season

Justin wielded the axe after last weeks disappointing opener - Biccies, Col & new boy Billy all made way for Christie, Lewis and returning skipper Beaven. To be fair the squad is looking very strong at this stage of the season and the boys back in the side today are quality. However, Maxtel had their usual slow start and really should have been behind. A break from the visitors resulted in early controversy when the officials failed to spot that the ball had crossed the line despite a desperate clearance from Tom after an excellent initial save from Matty.

Maxtel never looked back and quality inevitably won through, Matty Branson converted two chances and really should have sealed a hat-trick late on. At the other end Maxtel looked solid and Matt Clarke secured his first clean sheet for the club claiming everything in the air and making several good stops to ensure it finished 2-0.

Opening Day Setback

Maxtel were beaten by a sharp looking Sedgemere side sporting several new signings from the close season. Super Dave Lewis was not feeling so super as he had the shits so new signing Mike came in at centre half to partner Cliff with Biccies a shock selection at left-back. The visitors never recovered from conceding goals early in each half though. 

Matty Branson wasted no time in opening his account for another season, Bob beat the off side trap and selflessly laid the chance on a platter for the teenager to gobble up. Both sides hit the woodwork in the second half but it finished 3-1 to Sedgemere. Afterwards Justin thanked the players for their efforts and emphasised that this league is a marathon not a sprint.

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

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