News Sept 06

			ACADEMY PROGRESS Wednesday 26th September 2006 (7:45pm) – att 32 (est 52) FA Youth Cup sponsored by E.On, First Qualifying Round (FA match no 78) STAINES TOWN Youths / KC Academy ...................... (2) 6 WARE Youths ................................................................ (0) 0 Staines repeated their 6-0 scoreline of the Preliminary Round, in defeating Southern Floodlit League side Ware. Swans were totally on top from the moment Lyle Taylor scored the opening goal after 100 seconds, looping a header under the bar from White’s corner. Daniel Meggie doubled the lead on 25 mins, stabbing home from 6 yards after a Bryan Harrison cross rebounded to him. Meggie netted again before the break, but was a fraction offside. Skipper Elliot Blake scored the third (56 mins) when a Taylor shot was parried to him by ‘keeper McIvor. Then came a remarkable 17-minute Nick White hat-trick, slotting the first one in on 60 minutes, then scoring direct from a 73rd min free kick, and finally popping in a 77th min rebound off the cross bar. The downsides were a knee injury for Harry Draper, and a total of 6 cautions, 4 of them for home players. St Margaretsbury defeated Haringey, and so will host Staines in the next round. Staines – Tommy Draper, Elliot Blake ©, Daniel Gurney, Phillip Joseph (Quincy Rowe 58), Marvin Brown*, Bryan Harrison, Nick White, Tom Windsor, Daniel Meggie (Dominic Dwyer 46), Lyle Taylor, Harry Draper (Ricardo Kimfumu 63); unused Gareth Teuten, Michael Marren. Ware – Calum McIvor, Billy Cobb, Adam Mayson, Richard Morlock ©, Calum McHardy (Adam Tahsin HT), Alfie Branch (Oli Platts 61), Sean Warren, Louis Rowe, Dave Morton, Mabrouk Khadroui, James Seymour (Eddy Terry 61). Ref: Steve L Conway (Edgware); ARs Steve Woodison (Staines), Aiden Farrelly (Hampton). SECOND WIN IN A ROW Tuesday 26th September 2006 (7·30pm) – Ryman League, Premier Division WORTHING (1) 1 STAINES TOWN (2) 2 By Steve Parsons. Even with Worthing struggling at the foot of the table, Woodside Road is a difficult place to come and get a result, especially after a traffic-jam affected journey down in midweek for a 7:30 start. However, Steve Cordery’s unchanged side put those inconveniences behind them, and secured a second successive win, against a team who looked a lot better than their 2-point haul so far this season would suggest. Worthing had in fact recently strengthened their side, and fielded the newly acquired loan signing of Sonny Cobbs, captain of Brighton’s Youth team. On a mild evening, and with the pitch in good condition, Staines began by attacking the entrance end. Despite their difficult journey, the white-shirted Swans were straight into the attack, and they led from as early as the 4th minute, thanks to a super individual goal by Mark Nwokeji. He raced down the right touchline, ghosting past two defenders, cut inside and, upon reaching the extremity of the 18 yard box, delivered an inch perfect shot into the far top corner of Rikki Banks’ net. However, the good work was undone when in the 11th minute, Staines twice failed to clear as the ball bounced around in their box from a corner, and Ben Andrews fired it past Shaun Allaway. That had been virtually Worthing’s first attack, but they went on to enjoy a good spell, and after Michael Currie had gone close, Staines had to be at their resolute best to keep them out. On 26 minutes, Pete Castle made a brave lunge to divert a Cobbs effort over the bar, and the Staines defender picked up an injury in doing so. He twice received treatment for it, but was finally forced out of the game 10 minutes before the break, being replaced by Jake Newton on his return from suspension. But on 43 minutes, Staines regained the lead. An André Scarlett ball was fired goalwards by Mark Nwokeji (who was credited with the goal) and it then took a wicked deflection up off the heel of Andy Lutwyche, which sent it spinning out of Banks’ reach. Staines had a lot of pressure to soak up in the second half, as the home side strove to get back into the game. Mark Knee almost capitalised on a misunderstanding between Allaway and Adam Thompson, but the Staines ‘keeper managed to clear, and more chances came once the lively Jamel Carr was introduced. However, The Rebels did pick up the game’s only two yellow cards, fouls on Nwokeji and J Newton bringing censure for Andrews and Cook. Davis then close came to scoring on two occasions, the first being toes away after a fine cross by Lutwyche, and the second being an awkwardly bouncing shot which drew a good save from Allaway. Referee Steve Briffitt was unimpressed when Mark Knee went down under a challenge from Jake Newton just inside the box, and perhaps went against his side when Lewis Cook had perhaps a better claim for a penalty turned down just 2 minutes later. Knee was a fraction away from getting his head to Tom Lawley’s menacing cross, and with that, Staines brought on the steadying influence of Craig Maskell, as Currie limped out of the action 14 minutes from time. Knee then made a great turn and even better strike on goal, but Allaway was able to punch it away for a corner, despite not seeing it until late. With 10 minutes left, the home side forced a string of four corners, the first three from Ricardo Joseph, and the fourth – from the left – being sent over by Davis, from which Cobbs’ powerful shot was hooked off the line by Kevin Warner. As Worthing pressed more and more for the elusive equaliser, Staines began to find a little more room when they did get forward, and an excellent move involving Matt Flitter, André Scarlett, Nwokeji, and Maskell ended with Thomas driving just over. Another flowing move involving the same five players plus Ali Chaaban ended with Nwokeji shooting inches wide of what would have been a hat-trick goal. In the final minute, Allaway made one more excellent save to deny Cobbs, who was unmarked 10 yards out, following a great ball from Carr. On this occasion, however, Staines were not to be undone by a late goal. For 15 minutes, Staines moved up to their highest placing so far this season – 13th in the table, before the 7:45 games ended and they moved back to where they had started at 14th. Staines: Allaway, Thompson, McDonald, Castle (J Newton 35), Flitter ©, Scarlett, K Warner, Thomas, Currie (Maskell 76), Nwokeji, Chaaban; unused Armstrong, Sargent, H Newton. Worthing: Banks, Lutwyche, Joseph, Lawrence ©, Andrews, Cobbs, Davis, Hamilton (Carr 57), Lawley, Cook, Knee; unused Harrison, Fraser, Brotherton, Metcalf. Ref – Steve Briffitt (Shirley, Croydon), ARs Gary Croft (Sedlescombe), David Spain (St Leonards). Official att 228. RESERVES ALL SQUARE Wednesday 20th September 2006 (7:30) Capital League (Western Division) – att 34 STAINES TOWN RESERVES ..................................... (0) 1 HARROW BOROUGH RESREVES ........................... (1) 1 The FA Cup elimination meant there were a handful of senior players unexpectedly getting an extra run-out in this game, but it proved to be a tough assignment for Trent Phillips’ team, against a Harrow side which included Les Ferdinand’s son Aaron. Jake Newton made an appearance ahead of his 1-match ban for the Walton game, Dean Thomas and Mamadou Faly Basse impressed Steve Cordery enough for him to add them to his Ryman League roster straight after the game, Fiston Manuella made his last Staines appearance before signing for Chelmsford the following night, and debutant Raphael Gyan-Boatey showed plenty pf promise going forward. However, it was the visitors who took the lead following a 26th minute corner, which was forced over the line from 6 yards by Jamie Diston. It was not until the 64th that Staines drew level, Gyan Boatey laying the ball off for Emmanuel ‘Isaiah’ Hounza (who had only been on the field 60 seconds) to race through and slot into the corner. Staines remain on top of the table. Staines: James Courtnage, Mamadou Faly Basse, James Joyce, Jake Newton, Adam Thompson, Dean Thomas, Gareth Risbridger ©, Fiston Manuella, Paul Armstrong, Michael Currie (Emmanuel Hounza 63), Clement James (Raphael Gyan-Boatey 55); unused subs Chris Robinson, Danny Fisher, Jordan Kiffin. Harrow: Gary Ross, Mark Henry ©, Lee White, Jamie Diston, Dean Marney (Paul Boateng HT), Ryan Henry, Alex Augustine (Steve Brockett 54), Bradley Brown, Aaron Ferdinand (Lheureux Menga 48), Leon Morris, Prince Toku; unused Rob Parillon, Leon Henderson. Ref: David Frampton (Blandford, Dorset); ARs Derek Coe (Borehamwood, Herts), Bill Billingham (Lower Earley, near Reading) SWANS BOUNCE BACK Saturday 23rd September 2006 (3·00pm) – Ryman League, Premier Division WALTON & HERSHAM (0) 0 STAINES TOWN (1) 2 By Steve Parsons. This was a crunch match for both these sides in the lower half of the table. Quite apart from the friendly local rivalry that always exists in derbies, a win was seen as essential for both “Swans” clubs: Staines chairman Alan Boon had made it clear how diappointed he was with last week’s FA Cup exit, and with League results not having matched their performances, the team was under pressure to secure 3 points. Meanwhile, although they had progressed in the Cup, Walton did not have a League win to their name, and they were rocked by the shock departure of boss Alan Dowson a week ago, so the players and caretaker manager were all out to impress their bosses. The home side were managed by a former Staines player, Lloyd Wye, and his side included three players who were once with Staines – Michael Murphy recently, Eben Allen not so recently, and Matthew Ruby who was in the Åland Juniors in 1997. It was a similar story on the other side – Adam Thompson and Mark Nwokeji were recently at Stompond Lane, unused sub Paul Armstrong has also had a short stint there, as did coach Trent Phillips (who, incidentally, today signed Ryman forms as emergency cover). Steve Cordery brought Adam Thompson into the defence in place of the suspended Jake Newton (1 match), while Jon McDonald passed a fitness test to replace Dave Sargent. In midfield the highly promising Dean Thomas, an Academy product, stepped in for Gareth Risbridger (heel injury), and Michael Currie returned from injury to replace Howard Newton up front. Thomas was one of two Reserve teamers signed on Wednesday night, and the other – Mamadou Faly Basse from Senegal – travelled but was not called upon. The pitch was well grassed but a little bumpy underfoot, and the weather warm and bright. Attacking the tennis centre end in the first half, Staines were virtually irresistible, Ali Chaaban cut a shot inches wide on 5 minutes, then had one deflected for a corner, which Kevin Warner took to Chaaban, only for his shot to be blocked by ‘keeper Nick Gindre. Mark Nwokeji followed up to head into the net, but was flagged offside. Warner and André Scarlett combined to set up a shot for Pete Castle, who controlled a bad bounce but put his effort too close to Gindre. Referee Michael Rowley made some curious decisions throughout the afternoon (none more so than a Matt Flitter clearance which failed to bring Walton the expected corner), and also took three names from each side, some of them a little harsh. The first two came in quick succession, Louis Clark for a dangerous tackle on Scarlett, and Chaaban for dissent when he thought he had been fouled on the 18 yard line. Shaun Allaway, in the Staines goal, was relatively untroubled in the first half, although he did make steady takes from a Clark cross and Ben Thorne’s looping header. But mostly it was Staines in the ascendancy, with Chaaban again eluding Rob George but firing into Gindre’s body. Castle flicked on a huge Jon McDonald throw, only for both Chaaban and Nwokeji to have shots blocked on the line, Michael Currie angled a shot into Gindre’s body, and the Walton ‘keeper needed two attempts to cling onto a swerving Scarlett effort. The breakthrough finally came on the half hour, when Warner tried to spin in the box and was clumsily challenged by Will Jenkins, with Ali Chaaban stepping up to convert the penalty. Nine minutes later, a through ball by McDonald reached Chaaban, who found the net once again – but the linesman ruled him a fraction offside. Either side of half time, there was another caution each way – Thompson for a foul, and Byron Brown for a trip on Warner. Staines had deserved a bigger lead going into the second half, and they continued to press for a second after the restart. Gindre pulled off a reaction save from Currie’s volley, after Scarlett had headed a Warner cross back to him, and Chaaban saw a shot deflected for a corner, after Warner had fed him from a free kick for hands just outside the box. The home side seemed to perk up after Bobby Traynor was brought on, and Murphy shooting just wide, and then setting up a chance for Allen, who hooked his effort just too high. Allen’s nimble footwork developed a space for him, but he drilled just outside the post, and then both he and Murphy tried but could not beat Allaway. On 61 minutes, the last pair of names went into the book: Wes Goggin for a foul earlier in the passage of play, and Castle for a challenge on Traynor, although he probably did not see the Walton man coming in from his blind side. Once again, Craig Maskell was brought on to lend Staines some of his experience when some were getting nervous that the game was ripe for another late set-back. Byron Brown might have provided that for the home side, but young Thomas – showing great maturity in his first League game – cleared for a corner. With 21 minutes left, Walton introduced Joe Howe, and his very first touch was to get his head to a Traynor cross, and force Allaway to save under the crossbar. Brown then flashed a corner kick across the 6 yard box, needing only a touch to turn it in, but in fact it went right through to Simon Huckle, who volleyed over. Walton created an even better chance on 81 minutes, Traynor racing down the right and luring Allaway to the edge of his box, before crossing to the unmarked Allen – who contrived to head over the virtually unguarded goal. But the game ended with Staines back on top. Chaaban flashed another shot just wide, he and Thomas won a deadball for McDonald to pick out Maskell, whose header was parried towards Nwokeji, but he could not quite turn it in. The second goal came 5 minutes from time, when Maskell put Chaaban in, and as he turned, he was brought down in the box. This time, Mr Rowley allowed the advantage, and the ball broke to Mark Nwokeji who tucked it in. Allen pout another gilt-edged chance over the bar from just 3 yards after good work by Scott Edgar and Howe, and Walton knew it could not be their day. In the last minute, Allaway’s long pass put Telemaque into a good position – which got even better when he came off the better with a challenge from the last Walton defender. The referee’s whistle was expected to announce a free kick for the home side, but it was with great surprise that he pointed the other way, when another advantage decision would have given Telemaque a great chance for number three. As it was, Gindre dealt well with Maskell’s free kick. The three points were most welcome for Staines, who climbed a place to 14th, ahead of Tuesday’s visit to Worthing. Woodside Road has often proved a tricky venue for Staines, and the south coast side will be keen to get a result, having slipped to the foot of the table on Saturday. Staines: Allaway, Thompson, McDonald, Castle, Flitter ©, Scarlett, K Warner, Thomas, Currie (Maskell 65), Nwokeji, Chaaban (Telemaque 86); unused Armstrong, Sargent, H Newton. Walton: Gindre, Jenkins, Brown, Ruby, Murphy, Goggin ©, George (Edgar 79), Huckle, Allen, Clark (Traynor 52), Thorne (Howe 69); unused Blake (gk), Dunne. Ref – Paul Rowley (Berks), ARs P French & I Smith (Hants). Official att 186. STONES TOO DANGEROUS! WOMEN'S TEAM Sun 24 Sept - After travelling all the way down to the south coast to play Chichester City United in the FA Women's Cup, Staines were surprised to find that the referee would not play the game. He cited stones on the pitch as being dangerous, and one could see his point, even though the men's team had been in action there just 24 hours earlier. A ruling from the FA is now awaited, and it is possible that the sides will try again next week, at the expense of Staines' keenly awaited League clash with Hampton. SWANS DISMAL FA CUP RECORD CONTINUES Saturday 16th September 2006 (3·00pm) – FA Cup sponsored by E.On 1st Qualifying Round MALDON TOWN (0) 2 STAINES TOWN (1) 1 By Steve Parsons. Staines Town’s dismal FA Cup record continued when – for the fourth successive season – they went out to a side they would have expected to beat. Drawn away to the Essex club who were relegated from the Premier to the 1st (North) Division of the Ryman League last term, Staines would have had some trepidation, as they could only manage two draws last term, their only two previous meetings. A two-hour-plus journey found the Wallace Binder Ground in warm sunshine, and the pitch in grassy (if a little bumpy) condition. Steve Cordery restored Shaun Allaway, Dave Sargent, Mark Nwokeji and Ali Chaaban, moving James Courtnage, Errol Telemaque (who has been suffering with ’flu’), Craig Maskell, and Paul Armstrong to sub duties. Maldon started without the prolific goalscorer (and now Assistant Manager) Steve Portway. The first half hour gave no hint of what was to follow, as Staines began confidently, forcing a number of corners and Shaun Allaway dealing comfortably with the home side’s one real chance – a header from Dean Parratt. On 17 minutes, they eased into the lead, Jake Newton bringing the ball forward before sending it wide to his brother, Howard. He then cut inside and whipped the ball in towards Mark Nwokeji, who forced it in at the near post. A foul by Risbridger brought him a caution, but Staines came close to increasing their lead on 28 minutes, when Nwokeji found himself one-on-one with Darren Gould, only for the ’keeper to pull off a fine save, and then immediately launch a Maldon attack. The initial shot reared up off a divot and meant that Allaway could only parry it, Leon Antoine followed up and his shot would have gone in, but Billy Holland needlessly helped it over the line – and was promptly flagged offside. But this seemed to give the Blues the encouragement they needed, and Staines were forced to hang on in the final stages of the half, despite the home side losing skipper Paul King, who was injured in a collision and had to be replaced. Yohance Lewis sent a shot inches over Allaway’s crossbar, Antoine pinged another effort against the post, and in the final seconds, Lee Perry was put through by Craig Huttley, and was only denied by a brave save at his feet by Allaway. Staines were forced to make a change at the interval, with Pete Castle coming off injured, to be replaced by Adam Thompson, and 8 minutes later a foul by André Scarlett resulted in him being yellow-carded for persistent infringements. The visitors tried to get a crucial second goal, with Kevin Warner giving and receiving crisp passes from Howard Newton before seeing his 58th minute shot deflecting into Gould’s arms, and then Chaaban and Warner combined well for Nwokeji to fire wide with a shot on the turn. On the hour, a Howard Newton cross to Chaaban ended with Gould turning the ball round for a corner. But Maldon soon found their feet again, with Allaway required to make a good save from Antoine, and Lewis starting and finishing a swift move which only ended when Allaway dived to turn his crisp shot around for a corner. This was swung in by Dean Parratt, deceiving the visiting defence, and was forced in for a 68th minute equaliser by Ollie Blackwell. Staines did not have time to compose themselves before Maldon added a second, just one minute later, when Billy Holland was put through and deftly sidefooted past Allaway and into the net. Gary Henty nearly put the game beyond doubt, but Sargent made a vital clearance, and Swans were stung into making a couple of changes, bringing on the evergreen Maskell and leading scorer Telemaque. Maskell soon found his range, hitting a low, curling shot which Gould did well to save, but Staines were then given a mountain to climb when Scarlett was dismissed with 10 minutes to go. Norfolk ref Mike George later explained that he had spoken to him again about persistent infringements, and was pushed to the limit by a studs-up tackle, despite protestations that he took the ball. Sargent and Maskell continued to create for the visitors, but Maldon were now in the ascendancy. Antoine should have scored their third, receiving a glorious pass from Hollands and sidestepping Allaway, only to shoot wide of the gaping goal, to his obvious frustration. Parratt limped off in 88 minutes, Allaway made another save from Antoine in 89, and the game ticked over into stoppage time. Even here, Staines might have secured a replay, when Maskell beat Nicky Symons – Mr George playing the advantage when he handled – and channelling the ball via Nwokeji to Warner, who made space for a shot on the turn. It his the inside foot of the right-hand post, and then spun all the way across the goalmouth before going just wide of the left-hand upright. Clearly it was not to be Staines’ day, and they will miss out on the chance of glory for another year – not to mention a £2250 prize. Maldon declared Perry as their Man of the Match, and deserved their passage to the next round. However, two little unprofessional moments were unworthy of this friendly club: the decision to credit Staines’ goal in all the press as a Blackwell own goal simply because they found the name ‘Nwokeji’ too difficult, and the childish chanting on the tannoy when they took the lead. Staines: Allaway; J Newton, Sargent, Castle (Thompson HT), Flitter ©, Scarlett [SO 80], K Warner, Risbridger (Maskell 72), H Newton (Telemaque 72), Nwokeji, Chaaban; unused Armstrong, Courtnage (gk). Maldon: Gould, Henty, Huttley, P King © (Everett 39), Driver, Blackwell, Lewis, Parratt (Symons 88), Antoine, Perry, Holland; unused Portway, Gray, Wareham. Ref: Mike George; ARs Andy S Watson,Andy Saxton (all Norfolk); Official Att: 76. KIFF IS THE HERO FOR RESERVES - Despite having goalkeeper James Courtnage rasher harshly dismissed on 15 minutes, Staines ended Farnborough's 100% Capital League record and replaced them on top of the table, thanks to a 1-0 win at Cherrywood Road. Jordan Kiffin scored the only goal on the hour. STAINES SQUEEZE THROUGH Tuesday 12th September 2006 (7·45pm) – Westview Cup, Second Round STAINES TOWN (1) 3 POTTERS BAR TOWN (1) 2 By Steve Parsons. After extra time: score 2-2 at end of normal time Staines squeezed through to the next round of the Isthmian League Cup competition – agains sponsored by Westview – but only after their Division 1 North opponents had run them close on this, their first visit to Wheatsheaf Park. With big FA Cup games looming for both clubs, both Steve Cordery and his counterpart Andy Leese took the opportunity to rotate their squads a little. In Staines’ case, this meant the first competitive senior action of the season for goalkeeper James Courtnage, and first team débuts for Paul Armstrong and sub Dave Sargent. Armstrong was actually signed last season, but never kicked a ball for the club owing to an injury (subsequently aggravated while playing Gaelic football), and who has just re-signed after a few friendlies for AFC Wimbledon. Sargent was a summer signing, who ha made a quicker-than-expected recovery from a hernia operation. Steve Cordery’s other changes were to start Gareth Risbridger, Howard Newton, and Craig Maskell. The pitch was in excellent condition (how did Graham Gould only finish 4th in the Groundsman of the Year [Isthmian] competition?] despite a drizzly evening, and the home side attacked the houses end in the first period of both normal and extra time. There was a late change of referee, Kevin Haines replacing the appointed Lee Collins, who was attacked by a cab driver near his Aldershot home on Saturday, and who has sustained a serious eye injury. Things began brightly for The Swans, with plenty of pressure and a good chance falling to Howard Newton. Strangely, every Potters Bar attack seemed to end in a corner kick, and at one stage the corner count was 5-2 in The Scholars’ favour. One of them resulted in a dangerous shot for Greg Pike, with which Courtnage dealt admirably. Staines got the breakthrough on 22 minutes, Kevin Warner receiving a good ball from Maskell and crossing for Errol Telemaque to head home. Howard Newton then had two more fine chances, the first he controlled very well before Richard Hayward saved, and the second was a one-on-one, a battle which Hayward also won. In between, the game’s only yellow card was issued to Nicky Winger, for a foul on Jake Newton. Staines almost sealed their dominance with a second goal, but this time Telemaque’s shot came back off the post. The Herts side did have a penalty claim dismissed, but strove hard to et back into the game, and were rewarded with a Richard Howard goal turned in from close range after a Winger shot was cleared off the line. Four minutes after that, Howard Newton was put through again, but once more his attempted lob over Hayward went wide. The visitors started the second period wide, testing Courtnage with efforts by both Ryan Harris and James Dickie. But on 52 minutes, Staines moved back into the lead, when Telemaque received a low cross from the left and simply sidefooted home to make it 2-1. The lead lasted only 12 minutes, however, as Danny Charge was put through and he arrowed his shot into the corner of the net. Staines pressed for a winner in normal time, but Risbridger’s shot was well saved on the ground by Hayward, Jake Newton and his brother both went close, and Mark Nwokeji’s last minute penalty claim was waved away after a challenge from the ‘keeper – exactly the sort of decision that had been freely given against Staines in earlier games. With Nwokeji also going close again, the match wqs sent into extra time. The only chance of note in the first period was for Howard Newton, who received from his brother and made the keeper save on the ground. Early in the second, Howard set up James, but his shot was well saved. The spectators were starting to get prepared for penalties, when – with just 7 minutes left – Risbridger’s good work opening space for Mark Nwokeji, who slammed a worthy winner right into the corner of the net. The visitors tried to respond, but their best chance came and went when Courtnage saved under the bar from a shot by Howard. At the other end, Telemaque missed out on a hat trick when hitting the woodwork for a second time: the rebound came out to James, but although he rolled it into an empty net, he was adjudged to have handled the ball earlier in the move. . Staines: Courtnage; J Newton, H Newton, Castle, Flitter ©, Scarlett, K Warner (Sargent 98), Risbridger, Telemaque, Maskell (James 61), Armstrong (Nwokeji 94). Potters BT: Hayward, Keepeence, Dickie, Harris, Smith, Charge, Cooper (Martin 95), Winger (Burke 83), Howard (Collins 56), Pike, Turner; unused Sharman, Blower. Ref: Kevin Hained (Old Windsor); ARs Quelche, Donlon. Att 82 SWANS STILL UNBEATEN AT HOME Saturday 9th September 2006 (3·00pm) – Ryman League Premier Division STAINES TOWN (0) 2 HARROW BOROUGH (0) 1 Staines maintained their unbeaten home record this season, but that looked an unlikely outcome when they found themselves trailing at the interval, down to 10 men, and without either of their two full backs. They fielded an unchanged side for the visit of surprise packages Harrow on sunny Saturday, so former Boro’ man, Howard Newton, had to sit the game out as an unused sub. The visitors included their former Swan, Elliot Onochie, at centre forward. They had also lost long-standing international ‘keeper Karamoko to Hayes just two days earlier, and so fielded his understudy Kieran Jimmy between the sticks. The weather was warm and bright, the pitch in great condition, and Staines attacked the houses end in the first half. For all their effort, Staines’ first half performance was riddled with errors, and they found themselves behind after just 7 minutes. Albert Adomah’s left sided free kick was punched out by Shaun Allaway, but the ball cannoned off Abby Nsubuga’s knee and into the net. Mark Nwokeji and Jake Newton had chances for Staines, and Nwokeji’s fine cross just skimmed past Errol Telemaque, but Onochie, Danny Leech and Adomah also threatened for the visitors. McGonigle underhit a good chance for Harrow, and then Onochie picked out Nsubuga, who saw his shot cleared off the line by Newton. Staines then lost both full backs in the space of four minutes, firstly Jon McDonald getting another knock on his ankle, necessitating Kevin Warner dropping in at left back as Maskell came off the bench, and then André Scarlett had to go to right back when Newton received a second yellow card on only 36 minutes. He had been booked in half that time for a wayward challenge, and when he impeded Nsubuga in a dangerous position, he collected a second yellow card. The only other caution in the game was for Boro’s Leech soon afterwards for a late challenge. Pete Castle seemed to have quashed the threat from another Onochie raid, but the tenacious forward won the ball back, only to shoot over the bar. Although Maskell went close in stoppage time – winning a corner and receiving the ball from Dean Cracknell before shooting against the frame of the goal – it was still a glum looking Steve Cordery who led his men off – and sent them back out early for the second period. Nwokeji shot just over right at the start of the second half, but once again, Craig Maskell was the architect of a transformed Swans side, as Staines totally dominated the second half. It was his superbly struck quick free kick which levelled the scores just 4 minutes after the restart, following a foul on Chaaban just outside the box. There followed a catalogue of Staines chances: Maskell found Chaaban who lifted it past Jimmy only for a defender to clear his lines, Telemaque and Maskell combined well, the latter turning superbly before crossing, and Chaaban linking up with Dean Cracknell, who got through on goal, only for Jimmy to make a brave save, with Telemaque not quite able to turn the rebound home. Harrow chances were few and far between, but the one carved out by Adomah for Onochie was well saved by Allaway, with Scarlett giving the supporters a momentary palpitation with a clearance for a corner which was not far wide of the post! Meanwhile, they were suffering something of an injury crisis, with Frempong, Nsubuga, and Leech all picking up knocks. Jimmy saved bravely from Telemaque’s header, and scrambled round Chaaban’s drive, but was beaten by a looping Castle header (from Warner’s free kick), only for the ball to drop fractionally wide. Three minutes from time, Warner’s long pass picked out Maskell, but his snapshot only hit the goal frame, and there was a late scare when Adomah showed great skill on the edge of the box but shot just wide. Staines finished the day as they started it – in 15th. Staines: Allaway; J Newton [SO 36], McDonald (Maskell 32), Castle, Flitter ©, Scarlett, K Warner, Cracknell (Risbridger 84), Telemaque (James 89), Nwokeji, Chaaban; unused H Newton, Carbon. Harrow: Jimmy, Nielsen, Williams, Walters ©, Browne, Frempong (Morris 52), Nsubuga (Ferdinand 56), McGonigle, Onochie, Leech (Diston 68), Adomah; unused Adeoye, Ross (gk). Ref: P Forrester; ARs Donnellan & Panconi. BUSY DAY FOR YOUTHS WEDNESDAY 6th SEPTEMBER KINGSTON COLLEGE / STFC 2 STANMORE COLLEGE / HAYES FC 3 CORINTHIAN-CASUALS YOUTH 2 STAINES TOWN ACADEMY 2 It was a busy day for Staines Town's Youth sides. First the side representing Kingston College started their English Colleges League campaign with a 3-2 home defeat against East Berkshire (Hayes FC), Jordan Kiffin scoring both goals. In the early evening, Staines Town played a 2-2 draw away to Corinthian-Casuals in a friendly, despite taking a 2-0 first half lead through James McShane and Gareth Teuten. SATURDAY 9th SEPTEMBER 2006 BRITISH AIRWAYS 1 STAINES TOWN RESERVES 6 A hastily arranged Reserve team friendly saw Staines Town Reserves win 6-1 away to British Airways. It was the first goal they had conceded in 2006, and came just 20 seconds into the match. WOMEN WIN IN FA CUP SUNDAY 10th SEPTEMBER STAINES TOWN WOMEN 3 RIVERSIDE STRIKERS 1 Riverside Strikers had not lost for 2 years, and were one level higher than Staines Town's Women, but the Swans saw them off 3-1 in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women's Cup, at Staines Lammas FC on Sunday. Lucy McNeil converted a 2nd minute penalty, but Staines were unable to extend their lead in a tight game until the 79th minute, when Sam Oliver sidefooted the second after good work by Charlotte Lourenco. Rachel Fell's superb strike (from a McNeil pass) made it 3-0 with 5 minutes left, before Tori McDevitt;'s well-struck free kick reduced the arrears for the Southampton-based side just 2 minutes from time. A WIN AT LAST! Tuesday 5th September 2006 (7·45pm) – Ryman League Premier Division STAINES TOWN (2) 2 TONBRIDGE ANGELS (0) 0 By Steve Parsons. Steve Cordery’s men finally got the win that their form has deserved, when overcoming early pacesetters Tonbridge at Wheatsheaf Lane on Tuesday. Ali Chaaban was back in the starting line up for Michael Currie, whilst injured midfielder Adam Thompson made way for new signing Dean Cracknell, from St Albans City. Going into this game, Staines had not won a League game in 9, stretching back into last season, whilst Angels were unbeaten in ten. The visitors included Jon Main, the former Cray man who destroyed last season’s Trophy dreams. The pitch was perfect, and the weather mild. With Tash King away, Emily Secker deputised as assistant to Physio Gareth Workman. Staines began with some neat interchanges, and they could not have wished for a better start than a goal within the first 5 minutes. Mark Nwokeji received the ball in an unpromising position on the extreme right, but his fantastic pace took him beyond Mark Green, and then he threaded a powerful shot into the far bottom corner of Aaron Kerr’s net. Staines went from strength to strength, with André Scarlett pulling the ball back from the by-line for Errol Telemaque to crane for a far post header that he could not quite turn in, and then Chaaban seeing a whipped cross deflected away. But on 22 minutes, Ali Chaaban was put away by a great ball, and with the defence hoping for an offside decision that never came, defender Scott Gooding was left chasing shadows, and eventually could only trip the Swans man in the box. Undeterred, Ali Chaaban got to his feet and slammed home the resulting penalty kick, to open his League account for the season. Staines continued to look good for the remainder of the half, and new boy Cracknell was unlucky with a 30 yard drive which was deflected for a corner. Angels came into the game more in the second period, after a couple of early substitutions, and Main almost punished on an error but slotted just wide on 53 minutes. Almost immediately, Staines countered through Chaaban but his shot hit the outside of the post, Staines not even getting the consolation of a cornet as the ref had missed Kerr’s faint but vital touch. Main again looked dangerous when he drilled a free kick through the defensive wall, only for Shaun Allaway to save, and it was disappointing for Kevin Warner to get the game’s only yellow card for not retreating quickly enough – especially as he was on the receiving end of a couple of very painful challenges. At the other end of what was becoming a free flowing and open game of high quality, Telemaque saw a header well saved by Kerr. Perhaps fearful of Staines late wobbles in recent games, the experienced campaigner Craig Maskell was brought on for the last 20 minutes. His ability to hold the ball, and find the safe pass was a real asset, yet his very first touch was an adventurous cross onto the head of Jon McDonald, which was just pushed round for a corner by Kerr. Late on, McDonald came off after sustaining a knock on his ankle, and then Clement James made a welcome return to the 1st XI after an injury sustained at Bedfont in January. Nwokeji fired just wide after starting a move with a sumptuous back-heel to Chaaban, and in stoppage time, Maskell forced another flying save from Kerr after he and Chaaban had combined well from a free kick. There were still another 3 minutes to play, but Staines retained possession with seeming ease, and were pleased and relieved to get that vital win when the final whistle sounded. As a result, they rose 2 places to 15th. Staines: Allaway, J Newton, McDonald (Risbridger 84), Castle, Flitter ©, Scarlett, K Warner, Cracknell, Telemaque (Maskell 71), Nwokeji (Clement James 86), Chaaban; unused H Newton, Courtnage (gk). Tonbridge: Kerr, Gooding, Green, Kember, Aris ©, Beales, Piscina, O’Brien (Kinch 52), Powell (O’Neill HT), Main, Logan (Power 79); unused Heath, Watkins. Ref AS Field (Bucks); ARs C Breakspear jr & J Ryan (both Surrey); Official Att 257. Monday 4th September 2006 INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL AT WHEATSHEAF LANE International football came to Wheatsheaf Park, Staines, for the first time on Sunday 3rd September, when the club hosted a match between the U17 sides of the USA and Turkey. It proved to be a high-quality and exciting match, watched by Malcolm Royer (Mayor of Spelthorne), and Jim Taylor (Chairman, Middlesex FA), and a host of Premiership scouts from as far away at Manchester United and Bolton. It ended in a 2-2 draw, with the young Americans equalising twice through central defenders Sheanon Williams (a superb over-head bicycle kick) and Howard Turk (ironically!) The stylish Turks had netted through Eren Bayak and Batuhan Karadeniz, with the constant prompting of their outstanding No.9 Sercan Yildrim. Perhaps the real star, though, was the superb playing surface, pride and joy of Swans groundsman Graham Gould. The match was part of an annual 4-cornered tournament, whose results were - 30.8.06 Yeading USA v Portugal 1-1 30.8.06 Brentford England v Turkey 2-2 1.9.06 Yeading Turkey v Portugal 2-1 1.9.06 Aldershot T England v USA 6-0 3.9.06 Staines T USA v Turkey 2-2 3.9.06 Swindon T England v Portugal 4-0 ENGLAND 3 2 1 0 12-2 7 Turkey 3 1 2 0 6-5 5 U.S.A. 3 0 2 1 3-9 2 Portugal 3 0 1 2 2-7 1 NATIONAL CUPS Three of the club's teams begin the quest for national glory this month: The Women will be looking to repeat last year's remarkable run to the 3rd Rd Proper of the FA Women's Cup, staring with a Preliminary Round tie against Southampton-based Riverside Strikers at Staines Lammas FC next weekend. The Youths will be taking on Broxbourne Borough at Staines 3 days later. The 1st XI now know that they will be going to Malden Town (2-0 winners over Barkingside) in the daddy of them all - the FA Cup - on 16th, but before that, they will get their first taste of cup football this term with a home game in the League Cup (aka Westview Cup) against newcomers Potters Bar. DEJA VU ALL OVER AGAIN Saturday 2nd September 2006 (3:00pm) – Ryman League Premier Division HAMPTON & RICHMOND BOROUGH (1) 3 STAINES TOWN (2) 2 By Steve Parsons. There was a distinct feeling of déjà vu when Hampton completed their comeback to seal victory with a 94th minute penalty at the end of this derby match on Saturday. Staines have also conceded vital goals in injury time in their last two games, Ashford’s also being a penalty, and spot kicks have been awarded in four of the five games this season: Staines had theirs saved, while opponents have scored two out of three. This, coupled with the continuation of Swans dismal record against their oldest of rivals, left them feeling hugely deflated at the end of an exciting match – especially the many players and officials who were once with Hampton! Steve Cordery rang the changes, with Adam Thompson and Michael Currie included after coming through the Reserve game on Wednesday, and Errol Telemaque restored. Gareth Risbridger, Ali Chaaban, and Dean Green were relegated to the bench. Hampton started with two ex-Swans on the park – Matt Lovett and Dudley Gardner – and brought on Jon Henry-Hayden as a late sub. The Staines personnel who have crossed over were Currie, Matt Flitter, Jake Newton, unused subs Dean Green and James Courtnage, plus management Courtnage, Craig Maskell, Gareth Workman, and two new committee members – Michael Holland and Hilary Denning. Staines were defending the (refurbished) clubhouse end in the first half of a blustery and overcast afternoon, on a green but a little bumpy pitch, and with a gusting cross wind. The visitors began well, with Kevin Warner going close, and Jon McDonald shooting just wide from a Telemaque cross. But Hampton’s first major attack brought them a goal on 12 minutes, when Andy Cook launched himself at a cross from the right. But Staines were not deterred, as André Scarlett sent a shot just beyond the angle, and McDonald rode a challenge to cross to Kevin Warner, but his shot looped just wide. On 28 minutes, Currie was tripped just outside the box, and Telemaque touched the free kick to Warner, who again flashed a shot just wide. But just 3 minutes later, Swans did get the goal they deserved, although it came in from a Hampton corner. Barrie Matthews swung it in, and both Cook and Alan Inns got in shots which were desperately blocked in the box, before Scarlett found an outlet in Currie, and he sent the ball forward to Errol Telemaque. The former Yeading star then thundered forward, holding off a defender, before firing past Lovett. Scarlett almost scored again seconds later, but Staines did move into the lead in the 37th minute, after Mark Nwokeji won a throw in. McDonald flung it into the box, Scarlett’s shot was parried by Lovett, but Pete Castle pounced to net from close range. The unfortunate Thompson then limped off to be replaced by Risbridger just before the interval, at which point Staines could look back upon a deserved lead. But the second half was a different story, as Alan Devonshire urged his men to get forward at every opportunity, and Lawrence Yaku went close twice in the opening minute. Nwokeji had a rare chance to break out for the visitors, but he was unable to lift his shot over Lovett, and Staines were penned in once more, and after a near miss by Ian Hodges, the equaliser came on 62 minutes. Staines were appealing for a free kick when Currie went down after being dispossessed in the attacking half, but it was waved away, Hampton raced upfield and won a corner, which Ryan Lake took, and big Rob Paris got up strongly to head home from close range. Hodges again went close, but then Staines regained their urgency for a while, when Chaaban came on, and within minutes he grazed the bar after a clever pass from Scarlett. Nwokeji’s super pass put Chaaban in the clear, but the ball took an awful bobble as he was about to shoot, and Telemaque, Risbridger, and Chaaban all had efforts blocked or saved. There were a pair of late bookings – Harper for his foul on Chaaban, and Warner for a dangerous challenge, but despite Hampton’s introduction of the lively Henry-Hayden, it seemed honours would be shared. But with 3 extra minutes having been played, Hodges was released by Gardner, and as he dribbled in the box, Allaway challenged, and was penalised by not only a yellow card, but a penalty, which Ryan Lake hammered in. There was barely time to restart the game, before Steve Cordery was consigned to his fourth defeat at the Beveree (as manager of Aylesbury and Staines) since departing as Manager of The Beavers. Staines remain in 17th spot. Staines: Allaway, J Newton, McDonald, Castle, Flitter ©, Currie (Chaaban 67), K Warner, Scarlett, Thompson (Risbridger 43), Nwokeji, Telemaque (H Newton 80); unused Green, Courtnage (gk). Hampton: Lovett, Harper, Lake, Cook (Godfrey 70), Paris, Wells ©, Inns, Yaku (Henry-Hayden 80), Hodges, Matthews (McIntosh HT), Gardner; unused Harris, Yeboah. Ref C Lymer (Woking); ARs Maynard (Reading), Munday (Basingstoke); Official Att 307. RESERVES TOP OF THE LEAGUE The RESERVES continued their excellent start by winning 2-0 at Maidenhead United last Wednesday (scorers Jordan Kiffin and Howard Newton. On Sunday, they moved to the top of the Capital League (West) after securing a 0-0 draw away to champions Salisbury City, with a very inexperienced team. The VETS continued their winning start, beating Spelthorne Sports 9-1 at Englefield Green Rovers FC, also on Sunday 3rd. After edging past Corinthian-Casuals in a friendly last week (4-3), the WOMEN won their first competitive game by beating Camden Town 5-0 at Staines Lammas FC on Sunday afternoon. A Camoeron own goal, and a Rachel Fell penalty put them ahead at the break, and then they cut loose with further goals by Hannah Murphy, Lucy McNeil, and Jenni Friar.