Brockham Badgers FC Matchday Blog

Brockham Badgers Black U11 v Albury Eagles U11 Surrey Youth League Under 11s

2012-02-01T14:45:00.001Z

Brockham Badgers Black U11 v Albury Eagles U11

The first instalment of this season's much anticipated 'El Classico' saw The Badgers and The Eagles go head-to-head with everything to play for in the championship.

Recent meetings have not favoured The Badgers and in the early going this pattern seemed to be repeating itself. Brockham's midfield and defence got in each other's way a number of times gifting chances to Albury. It was only due to George Lees in goal that The Eagles failed to score. George's acrobatics, assured handling and great positional sense kept his team in the game.

Morgan began to take control on the right of defence with some string challenges and accurate passes. His will and determination started to infuse the rest of the boys with belief. It was a great example to his teammates. Joe Allen got more and more assured at the back and his great timing and passing was a highlight of the first half.

Oliver Yeates started to make his runs and create chances. He sparked a revival as Brockham pinned Albury back for long periods and eventually won a penalty when Morgan was brought down in the box. Morgan smashed it home to give Brockham a slender lead at half time.

Henry made some good through balls and started to knit the side together. Brockham might have even got a second. When the half-time whistle went Brockham were clearly on top.

Half-time: Brockham Badgers Black 1 Albury Eagles 0

The second half started with wave after wave of Albury attacks. Again George Lees made us all proud. He made the right decision every time. Closed down quickly when one-on-one. Stood up tall. Made the strikers panic.

Zain settle down to the blocking and intercepting that he does so well. Joe continued to make the game look easy with some astute passes. He really did not make an error during the game at all.

But still Albury pushed on.

Toby and Ezra, often outmuscled, never gave up the chase. They were alive and tenacious throughout. Henry protected his back four and looked to release Lucas for his trademark runs.

But Albury won every goal kick The Badgers took and often there was no challenge. This meant the pressure never dissipated. Meanwhile the strong goal kicks from Albury never saw Brackham sit deeper so as to take the ball.

Lucas and Ezra combned well to carve out some chances on the break. But Brockham were tense and tired. Lucas almost scored on a couple of occasions though.

George couldn't keep them out forever and eventually the ball broke kindly for Albury and they got a deserved equaliser.

Late on Joe Allen almost got the winner with a controlled shot that the keeper just clawed out and Ezra couldn't quite get to the rebound.

'Chopper' Yeates got a yellow card for a foul later on. It wasn't malicious and Oliver took it for the team.

It was a tough game mentally and physically. Brockham need to hold on tight and be a team when their attacks don't always work out. Positions were abandoned and sometimes teamwork was undermined. But it's a very good result. With Milford and Albury to play away Brockham will need to learn from this game in order to mount the challenge the team deserves.

Final Score: Brockham Badgers Black 1 Albury Eagles 1

Team: George Lees, Morgan Hamilton, Lucas Woolley, Joe Allen, Zain Kahn, Oliver Yeates, Henry Lucas, Toby Evans, Ezra Charles

Man of Match: Joe Allen (just pips Morgan and George), a fantastic display of reading the game and delivering killer passes.

Match Report: Jason Charles

Brockham Badgers U15A 2 - 4 Wandgas Youth

2012-01-30T21:12:00.001Z

This match is always one for the Badgers to look out for when the fixtures are published. Both teams have followed each other up and down the Surrey Youth League and the matches between the sides always produce a competitive game. None, unfortunately have repeated the 6-0 demolition by Brockham in their first encounter and neither was it to be repeated on Sunday.

There’s always an edge to Wandgas that can give them a psychological advantage unless stifled in early periods with a quick start from any of their opposition. Brockham have the beating of this side providing they get down to business early and Brockham started well enough - the opening ten of fifteen were promising. Possession was even and both Jack Coppin and Kieran Rice had very good opportunities to give the Badgers the lead. Wandgas had clearly prepared themselves for Brockham’s pacey forward line and were sitting deep with a four man defence.

Unfortunately this encouraged Brockham forward and their early success brought some ill-disciplined enthusiasm with it. Shape was lost, space between midfield and defence opened up, long balls entered their game, and Brockham lost their ability to hold onto the ball. That was all Wandgas needed to snatch a goal and go into half time one up.

Wandgas clearly had their tails up and smelt blood. Brockham set up with two attacking wide midfielders and their new target man Alex Mitrovic through the middle. This might have done the job had Wandgas not brilliantly switched to three at the back, saturated midfield with an extra man and still left the Badgers back line to contend with two forwards supported by two adventurous wing backs. The move paid dividends when Wandgas got themselves a well worked second.

The response from Brockham, to their credit, was instant. Brockham mirrored Wandgas’ formation and at times almost had a four man front line. Brockham’s reply was an absolute stunner. Coppin received the ball central and just inside the penalty area. His quick feet shifted the ball onto his favoured left foot and he pinged a perfectly placed shot with power between the upright and the cross bar.

The Badgers felt they could get back onto even terms and maybe push on for a winner. Well that’s what they thought. In a five minute spell of madness it all went pear shaped. A ball, pinged in from the Wandgas right, ran across the six yard box, passing three defenders on its way and surely a straight forward collect for James Rabbetts in goal. Nope. Somehow the ball managed to avoid anyone in black and white and opted to gravitate to the colour purple and latterly the Brockham net. Minutes later the industrious Luke Brightman was beaten by a Wandgas forward and the attempts by the otherwise faultless Simon Vakeva-Baird to cover were deemed unfair and a penalty was awarded which was despatched with the ruthlessness of a smiling executioner.

Notable performances by Sam Lloyd, Lewis Wood, Vakeva-Baird, and Luc Jhugroo were rewarded with a collector’s item of a goal from the ever-reliable George Gomes who despite being one of the shortest in the pitch met a Jordan Martin corner with an even rarer headed goal in the dying seconds. It was of little consolation though, and the Brockham boys must now consolidate and dream of a title challenge next season rather than this.

Man of the Match: Luc Jhugroo

Brockham Badgers U10A 2 - 2 Forest Youth

2012-01-30T20:31:00.001Z

Honours were even at the Big Field on Saturday when Brockham Badgers renewed acquaintances with the competitive Forest Youth Under 10 squad. Close encounters of a fourth kind were on the cards after three previous meetings between these teams in the last seven months had produced one draw and two narrow one-goal victories to the Badgers.

It was Forest Youth who set the tone in the first half. Despite a good show by Brockham, the visitors played some exceptional football at times, applying strict pass and movement techniques from the training ground to good effect in the game. At times the Badgers were chasing shadows as Forest created neat triangles around a team of black and whites trying to find their normal tempo and balance against a neatly drilled opposition. It was on merit that Forest lead by two goals to nil at the interval.

Brockham responded to the challenge however, and gradually imposed their pressing style on the game. The rear guard of Huw Morgan in goal, Ed Russ at right back and William Timmons at left back, remained patient and built play from the back, continuously instigating dangerous moves from both channels with incisive passes setting up rampaging runs in wide positions from Joe Rabbetts and Matthew Chapman.

It was a neat one two inside however that created the opportunity for Brockham’s first goal however. As William Timmons attempted a give-and-go movement with the impressive Sam Church in midfield, Timmons was brought down with a mistimed tackle just inside the Forest Youth half. There was only ever going to be one set piece taker from that distance. Russ stepped forward and allowed his team mates to take up their positions but in reality with only one thought in his mind. Using his excellent power and technique he hit an absolute corker of a dead ball from 20 yards straight into the top corner of the Forest goal, leaving the keeper rooted and both sets of supporters applauding.

Owen Knowles was proving a tricky customer up front, going close on two occasions and feeding some dangerous balls to Rabbetts who skimmed the post on one occasion. Harrison Watts took up the right midfield position in the second half and was also making some mazy runs which forced three corners in succession. It was Conan Torpey however who squared the game. With ten minutes to go he re-entered the game in an advanced position and immediately harassed the Forest defence with continuous pressing of the ball. Time and again he forced mistakes and decisions, and on two occasions came close to scoring. Third time lucky he chased down a ball, met it with power and drew a late challenge in the penalty area. The referee raised his whistle to his lips but before he could blow the ricocheted ball buried itself in the Forest Youth net and the advantage was played rewarding Brockham with their second.

Man of the Match: Harrison Watts

Surrey Youth League - Premier Division - Brockham BAdgers U16A 7 Worcester PArk U16s 0

2012-01-29T21:34:00.000Z

Brockham Badgers U16A produced their best performance of the season to sweep a good Worcester Park team aside on Sunday.

Worcester Park had beaten Badgers 2-0 in the away fixture between the two sides, although Badgers felt aggrieved to have lost that match, but in the return fixture, apart from a sluggish opening 10 minutes, their was no doubt who would be claiming the three points..

With George Coffey and Harry Ramsey on fire in attack for Brockham, Badgers quickly swept into a 3-0 lead at half time courtesy of 2 goals from Coffey and a welcome return to the score sheet from an inspired Oli Winter.

Park had no answer to Brockham’s determination in the second period. A wonder goal from Ramsey made it 4-0, good work from Will Bletso then closed the ball down and fed the ball to Ransey for him to send in a pin point cross for Coffey to grab his hattrick. Ramsey scored a second before Will Mahoney scored from a bullet header from a corner to complete the rout.

Manager Simon Coffey was delighted with all of his side from keeper Dennis Rapson, his three man defence of captain Matt Higgins, Mahoney and Bletso, the midfield with Mike Richardson and Harry Morland bossing the game. With the pace of Ramsey and inventiveness of Josh Brown and George Coffey, Badgers have the chance to put real pressure on the top teams in the division, as well as advancing in the Surrey U16 Cup where they face Corinthian Casuals in the quarter finals of the competition during February.

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Brockham Badgers U15 0 - 1 Corinthian Casuals

2012-01-23T15:56:00.001Z

When will luck roll the way of the Badgers U15As? In a game where Brockham dominated possession and chances, they still came away without reward. The ball hit the Corinthian cross bar, skimmed first the left post and then another attempt skimmed the right, was cleared off the line, fizzed across goal tantalisingly inches from a Brockham toe, and drew an assortment of saves from the Casuals keeper, but still it wouldn’t find the net.

Every Brockham player to a man had an excellent game from start to finish. The back three of Luc Jhugroo, Justin Tarrant, and Simon Vakeva-Baird were magnificent. The midfield battled for possession and retained the ball better than they have all season, and both Joe silver and Jordan Martin were a constant threat up front, using their pace to break the Corinthian off-side trap time and again.

Any neutral observer would have expected the game to go the way of the Badgers, even when at 0-0 with only seven minutes to go the Casuals countered and took the lead with a poachers goal from short range. Lady luck and the clock were having none of it though, and despite their superior performance the black and whites found themselves empty handed once again.

NPL Youth 2 - 1 Brockham Badgers Barbarians (U10) (Epsom and Ewell League, Division 3)

2012-01-22T16:30:00.001Z

Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians team travelled to Teddington to play NPL Youth who were currently occupying the top spot in Division Three of the Epsom and Ewell League.
Brockham started strongly from the whistle with healthy contests for the ball all over the pitch. On three minutes Brockham's Ben MacKenzie managed to break along the wing and cross to Tom Ambrose for a first Badger's strike which was only kept out by a NPL defender on the line.
Some fine defensive work by Brockham's Ben Austin and William Glenn gave protection to their goal and also created options for quick counter attacks. With Brockham's players pushing forward, a long range ball from NPL found their lone striker who volleyed past Brockham's Josh Snow to put them in front after nine minutes.
From the restart Brockham quickly gained the upper hand and a great move from Arun Watkins gave Callum Hollder clear sight of goal but the ball fizzed just wide. With just one minute remaining of the first half, Brockham's Ambrose made a sublime pass to Holder who skipped past the NPL goalkeeper to coolly slot home the equaliser.
In the second half Brockham were again on top as MacKenzie and Austin terrorised both wings. Brockham's defenders were pushing forward and an audacious strike from the half way line by Bailey Osbourne only narrowly prevented Brockham from taking the lead.
About half way through the second half and against the run of play, Brockham were defending in numbers, as a scuffle in the box enabled NPL to grab another goal and take the lead 2-1. With ten minutes left, Brockham continued to push forward and showed no signs of tiredness when dealing with some quick NPL counter attacks. Although Brockham had the lion share of the chances in the remaining minutes, they were unable to find the all-important equaliser and the game ended in a narrow victory for NPL.

Final Score NPL Youth U10 2 - 1 Brockham Badgers Barbarians U10

Man of the Match: Tom Ambrose

Brockham Badgers: Thomas Ambrose, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Bailey Osborne (Capt.), Josh Snow, Ben MacKenzie, Arun Watkins

Surrey FA County Cup - U16s - Brockham Badgers progress to the quarter finals of the county cup

2012-01-16T16:04:00.000Z

Brockham Badgers U16A 3 Guildford City U16 2

Brockham Badgers U16As progressed into the quarter finals of the Surrey County Cup with a last gasp win over Guildford City on Sunday. This is the third time this squad of players have reached the last 8 of the county cup, reaching the final 2 years ago only to lost out narrowly to AFC Wimbledon, a real achievement for a village non selective side.

Brockham look likely to host Leatherhead, another Surrey Youth League side, in the quarter finals in February.

Although Guildford started the stronger, Brockham were consistently on top throughout this game, and probably should have been in a winning position well before the winner scored by Harry Ramsey just moments before the final whistle. George Coffey had given the team the lead midway through the first half, and a fast start to the second period looked like it would be a matter of time before Brockham moved two goals ahead. But a goal from 30 yards suddenly brought Guildford back into the game 10 minutes into the second period and although Brockham immediately made it 2-1 through an own goal after good work from Coffey, Brockham just couldnt seem to find that killer blow. With defenders Matt Higgins, Will Bletso and Will Mahoney having strong games, Guildford were confined to few chances, while striker Harry Ramsey was a constant thorn in the side of the away team. Ramsey, Coffey, Mike Richardson and Oli Winter all went close for Badgers before a rare breakaway saw Guildford pull level once more.

With Brockham on the back foot for the only time in the game, it took a fine save from Brockham keeper Dennis Rapson to prevent the visitors taking a shock lead, and gradually Badgers again gained the upper hand as the match moved into the final minutes of the game.

In a dramatic finale, Alex Nicholson found Ramsey just outside the box, Ramsey controlling the ball and slotting it past the keeper for the winner despite the away team's claim of handball, to make it 3-2 and a deserved win for Brockham

Team - Dennis Rapson, Will Mahoney, Connor Baker, Matt Higgins (c), Will Bletso, Alex Nicholson, Oli Winter, Mike Richardson, Jecco Navalta, George Coffey, Harry Ramsey, Josh Brown, Harry Morland, Frankie Routleff

Cheam Rangers 2 - 1 Brockham Badgers U15A

2012-01-16T13:29:00.001Z

A pulsating match that epitomised the “game of two halves” cliché was played out on Sunday afternoon between Brockham Badgers U15A and Cheam Rangers. Both sides clearly play good passing football and it was unfortunate that the Badgers lost their influential left midfielder Jack Coppin within minutes of the start to an ankle injury, but Brockham fell into their usual trap of starting slowly and soon found themselves a goal down following a difficult period when Cheam dominated possession and deserved to take the lead.

James Rabbetts had already kept the team in the game with two fine saves but it was a catalogue of poor decision making and lethargy that led to Cheam’s opener, starting with poor distribution from the Brockham goal kick. The ball didn’t travel far and went straight down the throat of the Rangers midfield. Soft attempts by Brockham to win the first and second ball cleared the way for the Cheam striker to take his chance with ease. Their second came with equally poor pressing or ambition from the black and whites.

The second half was a total transformation. Luke Brightman came on at right back and had a terrific game, whilst Jordan Martin switched to a central striking position with Sam Lloyd taking the right advanced midfield berth. With an attacking trio made complete with Joe Silver on the left, and the half time team talk delivering a rocket, the Badgers came out all guns blazing. The players were throwing themselves into tackles and blocks, pressing the ball in an organised and sustained assault and it was one way traffic for twenty minutes. Silver and Martin both had excellent scoring chances that were narrowly denied and it was only a matter of time before Brockham would surely score.

The breakthrough was stunning. A loose ball dropped to Silver in a central position and he let fly from 25 yards. It was a creamer, nestling in the top right hand corner and giving the Cheam keeper no chance. Silver had swapped his blades for the manager’s studs at half time – it was clearly the managers magic footwear that made the difference!

Chances came and went for both sides as the game ebbed and flowed and Cheam wrestled a little more possession from the game, but Brockham looked as if they would not only get an equaliser but may conceivably go on to win. A good penalty shout was denied, offensive corners were repelled and a wave of midfield dominance was stifled at the crucial moments by Cheam. The clock eventually wound down and Brockham had to go home wondering how things might have been if they’d turned in their second half performance for the whole game. It was an excellent response after half time though and the display was proof enough for all to see that when they play to their potential the Badgers have the beating of anyone.

Man of the Match: Joe Silver

Barnes Eagles 3 - 2 Brockham Badgers U15A

2012-01-08T19:06:00.001Z

Brockham Badgers U15A kicked off the new year with a difficult match at second placed Barnes Eagles. The first half was a scruffy affair. Too many high balls were easily dealt with by the impressive Barnes central defence pairing, and Brockham failed to string more than two or three passes together. Barnes went ahead early on and maintained the advantage until half time, shortly after which they deservedly doubled their lead.

Jordan Martin was getting little success through the middle of the Barnes defence and switched to the right. Although the Barnes no.14 at left back had put in an impressive display to that point, Martin asked a few more questions and before long snatched a goal back for Brockham from close range following a cross from Jack Coppin.

The Badgers started to play the ball on the ground and wrestled the possession advantage from the Eagles. There were chances at both ends, but if anyone was going to score next it was looking more likely that it would come from the visiting boys in black and white. With only three minutes remaining Martin ran onto a delightful through slide-rule ball from Kieran Rice and finished strongly for the equaliser. What should have followed was a lock-up job and the boys could have gone home happy with a point away to a strong team, but instead Brockham’s tails were up, they felt they were in the ascendancy and went for the winner. Unfortunately they left themselves exposed at the back and conceded an unnecessary goal with a minute remaining.

The team showed great spirit to battle back from two down, and can be confident their performance level is still improving, but they also learnt a very tough lesson.

Man of the match: Luke Brightman

RE: Worcester Park Colts U10A 1 - 5 Brockham Badgers U10A (Epsom & Ewell Premier Division)

2011-12-17T15:21:00.001Z

Brockham began the game passing the ball well and creating a few good chances however Worcester Park went close hitting the crossbar within the first 10 minutes. Brockham dominated possession but got caught out by Worcester Park on the break who took an early lead. Brockham had no need to change their game plan and continued to press Worcester Park. A shot by Ed Russ could only be parried away by the keeper and a lively Joe Rabbetts was on hand to level the score. Worcester Park came close, hitting the bar but it was Owen Knowles, up front for Brockham, who got the break and managed to put Brockham in front with a well executed goal.

After the break Brockham looked lively and Conan Torpey extended the lead with a lovely turn and finish inside the box. Two minutes later a cross from Joe Rabbetts was finished by Owen Knowles and a minute after that Conan Torpey got his second. It was a 5 minute spell that completely knocked the stuffing out of Worcester Park and they had no way of coming back. Brockham continued to press and had the better of the chances but the score remained unchanged for the last 15 minutes. This was a good 3 points for Brockham and they can go into the Christmas Break confident of further strong performances in 2012.

Man of the match – Harrison Watts

Report by Rick Russ

Brockham Badgers U15A 3 - 2 Molesey Juniors

2011-12-12T16:02:00.000Z

Brockham Badgers U15As continued their steady progress in the Surrey Youth League with another significant win in their last competitive match before the Christmas break. It was the first encounter between the teams which became evident when Molesey Juniors arrived in their black and white stripes to cause a bit of a dilemma. Clarity was restored however when the visitors kindly changed into their red away shirts.

Molesey were out of the blocks brighter, forcing several early corners and putting Brockham onto the back foot for most of the opening fifteen minutes. Two or three good chances for the reds were only foiled by another excellent shift between the posts for James Rabbetts and some very well timed challenges from Justin Tarrant.

Matters could have got worse for the Badgers when both Sam Lloyd and Oli Gout came off injured within minutes of each other, but their replacements Tom Hampshire and Brockham debutant Kieran Rice deputised magnificently. Then Luc Jhugroo came into midfield for Lewis Wood, and pushed up field to link up play with Jordan Martin who had come off the right and was now acting as a lone striker. The sticky pitch and long grass didn’t make the game much of a spectacle but Brockham slowly but surely applied their own game plan and as the first half developed the theme for the match was clearly set to be one with a tight finish.

The Badgers upped their game in the second half, pressing with more energy and changing formation to apply more pressure on the Molesey defence. Within five minutes the tactical change bore fruit. Martin who was now half of a two man attack with Lloyd, received a ball in the right channel. He turned his marker and drove to the byline where he delivered a perfect cross into the six yard box. Lloyd timed his run to perfection, but still had to muster a good deal of skill to volley the ball in full flight powerfully into the Molesey net.

The visitors were nowhere near out of the game, continuing to match Brockham in every position, so it came of no surprise when they equalised following some mesmerising skill from their No.12 in midfield and one or two missed opportunities by the Badgers to thwart his run. For the next ten minutes it was end to end stuff with both teams’ horns locked in pursuit of a winner, but the advantage was taken up once again by Lloyd for Brockham.

A darting run onto a through ball in the Molesey penalty area saw Lloyd ushered away from goal by his marker, Lloyds first touch invited the keeper out to collect but his second touch got there momentarily before the Molesey goalie who caught Lloyd’s heel and sent him tumbling for a penalty. Lloyd stepped up and buried the spot kick with confidence.

The game continued to ebb and flow and once again Molesey drew level shortly afterwards. Rabbetts was furious with his defence and midfield for backing off as touch after touch of the advancing Molesey boys were allowed to go unchallenged, concluding in a fine effort from ten yards.

With minutes remaining both managers were in two minds – go for the win or settle for the point. Brockham’s decided to settle for the point. The excellent Luke Brightman was asked to man mark the Molesey No.12, whilst Jack Coppin slotted in at left back to neutralise the pacey Molesey right midfielder who had been causing Oscar Cremmen problems all morning. Cremmen slotted into midfield and Brockham reverted to 4-5-1 with Martin switching to the left wing and Lloyd the target man. What was meant to be a shut up shop manoeuvre turned out to be the catalyst for the winner with Cremmen being instrumental in the build up through the middle for a wonderful through ball that split the Molesey defence and allowed Martin to use his pace and finish well.

The last two minutes were nervous times for Brockham as Molesey continued to pile on the pressure but the final whistle saw all three points go the black and whites way.

Man of the Match: James Rabbetts and Justin Tarrant

RE: AFC Wimbledon 1 - 1 Brockham Badgers U10A (Epsom & Ewell Premier Division)

2011-12-12T10:01:00.001Z

Playing on a large pitch with a really good surface enabled both teams to play some superb passing football. Brockham started applying pressure early on with an Ed Russ volley skimming the cross bar. Wimbledon absorbed the pressure and managed to catch Brockham on the break to give the home side the lead. Brockham had no need to change their game and continued to pass the ball soon winning a corner which somehow managed to run across the face of Wimbledon’s goal without anyone getting a touch on it. Just before the half time whistle Owen Knowles came close, shooting just wide.

The second half started well for Brockham with two good shots on goal but it wasn’t until Knowles got the break, with a one on one, that The Badgers could draw level. Knowles picked the ball up just inside Wimbledon’s half and drove towards goal, remaining composed he buried it into the bottom corner. AFC were still looking for 3 points and some finger tip saves by Badger’s Keeper Huw Morgan kept it all square. A few good breaks by Conan Torpey almost managed to give Brockham all 3 points, but it wasn’t to be. The game was played in good spirit and the quality of the football played by both teams was extremely high, a really entertaining match that both teams deserved to get something from.

Man of the match – Owen Knowles

Report by Rick Russ

Surrey County Cup U16s - Brockham Badgers U16 7 Barnes U16s 4 aet

2011-12-11T21:11:00.000Z

Brockham Badgers U16s moved into the last 16 of the county cup with an exciting win over a gritty Barnes side on Sunday.

Brockham had come back from 3-1 down mid way through the 2^nd half to 3-3 at the full time whistle, meaning that 20 minutes of extra time were played. By then, Barnes were down to 10 men due to injury, and as expected Brockham were able to claim the tie in injury time.

A heavy pitch saw an even start to the match, but it was the visitors who took the lead in the first half, and who held the lead at half time. Brockham equalised through Harry Ramsey early in the second period. But the expected Brockham push to win the game did not come, and it was the visitors who scored twice in quick succession mid way through the half. With Barnes down to 10 men, Brockham kept going and first Liam Steere latched onto a ricochet to slot the ball past the keeper, then Ramsey scored in almost identical circumstances just 2 minutes later

Brockham were on top but could not score the killer goal in the final part of normal time, and a gutsy Barnes side were looking very dangerous on the break.

Extra time and within moments, Badgers were ahead, Ramsey grabbing his hattrick. Still the game was not safe, and only when Will Mahoney made it 5-3 did Brockham breathe a sigh of relief. Further goals from Ramsey and Ollie Winter, and a consolation from a gallant Barnes side completed the scoring in an eventful game

Team – Dennis Rapson, Connor Baker, Will Mahoney, Will Bletso, Matt Higgins ©, Mike Richardson, Ollie Winter, Josh Brown, Alex Nicholson, George Coffey, Frankie Routleff, Harry Ramsey,Gecco Navalta, Harry Morland, Liam Steere,

RE: Brockham Badgers U10A 2 - 2 Ewell Saxons U10A (Epsom & Ewell Premier Division)

2011-12-05T15:11:00.001Z

After a strong start to the season the Badgers went to The Big Field having suffered 2 consecutive defeats. Brockham started brightly but soon found themselves going behind to a well finished Saxon’s goal. Brockham had their chances but didn’t manage to take them with Conan Torpey shooting just wide and Joe Rabbetts hitting the side netting.

Brockham continued to apply pressure with a well worked cross by Joe Rabbetts finding the head of Sam Church, but still the Black and Whites couldn’t find the net. Against the run of play Brockham conceded again and it looked like it was going to be one of those days for The Badgers. However, during the second half the home team continued to play the better football. Sam Church managed to get a cross to Ed Russ on the edge of the Saxon’s penalty area, who confidently fired in to the bottom corner , 1-2. A ball by Russ into the Saxon’s goal mouth created panic and a Saxon’s defender conceded an own goal. Brockham were beginning to create more chances and could have had a winner near the end but failed to take their chances. Brockham remain 4^th in the division but they are going to have to find their early season form if they are going to remain or improve upon that.

Man of the match – Joe Rabbetts

Report by Rick Russ

Brockham Badgers U15A 1 - 3 Chipstead Youth

2011-12-05T09:41:00.000Z

Brockham Badgers U15A put in another encouraging performance despite being on the losing end of an enthralling Surrey FA County Cup tie with auspicious Surrey Youth League Premier Elite division opponents Chipstead Youth.

The visitors arrived in confident mood but soon realised they were in for a match when both sides had chances in some early forays and Brockham were matching them for midfield steel, defensive organisation, and pace and width in offensive phases.

To be fair to the green and white hoops of Chipstead they probably edged the number of early chances but James Rabbetts was in fine form, denying them with two particularly fine saves. It was unfortunate therefore that it was a scrappy goal that saw the Badgers go behind after half an hour. A miscued clearance spun backwards toward goal off the top of a Brockham defensive boot, Simon Vakeva-Baird adjusted to clear but got a shout from Rabbetts for him to collect. The two collected each other rather than the ball and a Chipstead player tapped in gratefully from a yard out.

The lead was short lived. Justin Tarrant confidently cleared Brockham’s defensive line with a direct ball over the Chipstead defence and into an area Jordan Martin loves to burn into with his pace. Martin’s first touch was perfect. It took him past his marker and drew the keeper far enough out for Martin to get there first and poke the ball into the net. Occasionally, route one is beautiful. Game on.

The score remained locked at 1-1 until fifteen minutes into the second half. The Chipstead No.4 hammered a great half volley beyond Rabbetts for their second, and ten minutes later a series of opportunities to clear were missed by the Badgers and a poor third was conceded from short range in a goal mouth scramble.

Brockham then had a good period of possession and arguably the upper hand. Vakeva-Baird hit the cross bar with a header and then pulled off a finger tip save from the hoops keeper with a left foot drive from 20 yards. Sam Lloyd made an excellent run to the right and had the ball cleared the keeper from his cross Joe Silver was a standing beggar waiting for the tap in.

It wasn’t to be though and both teams put in a good display for Surrey youth football. Chipstead deserved the win and Brockham deserved the applause for their performance.

Man of the Match: Jack Coppin

Surrey Youth League - Brockham Badgers U16 4 Kingstonian U16 2

2011-12-04T21:55:00.001Z

Brockham U16s continue to go from strength to strength with a last gasp win over Kingstonian U16s.

Brockham dominated play from start to finish, and the win was deserved on the balance of play, but Kingstonian gave Brockham a real scare, going within 6 minutes of snatching a gutsy win.

Brockham started well, but a defensive miscommunication gave Ks a soft lead. Lad of the match Will Mahoney soon made it 1-1 with a salmon like leap from a superb George Coffey corner.

Brockham dominated the early second half, but Kingstonian were putting in many biting tackles, often catching Badgers in possession, and the final ball would not come. To rub salt into the wound, lKingstonian then took full advantage of a defensive mistake to make it 2-1.

With 20 minutes to go, Brockham still had time to turn the game, but despite the best efforts of centre backs Matt Higgins and Will Bletso, and midfielders Oli Winter and Mike Richardson, Brockham seemed to have lady luck against them as time after time the final ball was smothered by a committed Ks keeper and defence.

With 6 minutes to go, Harry Ramsey latched on to a ball on the centre line, drove into the box and hammered the ball low past the Ks keeper. Then just two minutes later another great Coffey corner was headed home bravely by Mahoney, and suddenly Brockham were ahead. to put the icing on the cake, Ramsey's electric pace put him in the box in injury time, his shot ricocheting into the net off a defender to complete a great turnaroud for Badgers.

Brockham Badgers Barbarians (U10) 1 - 4 Horsley FC B (Epsom and Ewell Cup Div 3)

2011-12-04T16:48:00.001Z

Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians are flying high in Division Three of the Epsom and Ewell League and were looking to gain revenge following their defeat in the first league encounter with Horsley.

Horsley started strongly and Brockham's Josh Snow made a great save to prevent a first goal, however after two minutes Horsley gained the upper hand and scored from a crossed ball which was volleyed to the back of the Brockham goal. Brockham's Arun Watkins and Lily Turner combined with some sublime passing and a strike by Callum Holder nearly levelled the game.

With five minutes left in the first half a fine Horsley strike saw the score line extend to 2 – 0.

Brockham had several chances and an open Horsley goal looked set to rebalance the score but Brockham were unable to convert the opportunity. Just before the half-time whistle, Brockham were pushing forward in numbers and a quick counter attack resulting a third Horsley goal.

In the second half Brockham regrouped and started to defend strongly whilst also rediscovering some of their passing game. However it was not Brockham's day as against the run of play, a lucky goal for Horsley saw the visitors go 4 -0 ahead.

Brockham's heads did not drop and they continued to press forward. Ben MacKenzie playing on the edge of the Horsley box managed to step past a couple of tackles and with his back to a defender turned to curve the ball towards the bottom corner of Horsley's goal to gain a well-deserved goal for the home team.

Final Score Brockham Badgers Barbarians 1 – 4 Horsley FC B

Man of the Match: Ben MacKenzie

Brockham Badgers: Thomas Ambrose, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Bailey Osborne (Capt.), Josh Snow, Ben MacKenzie, Lily Turner, Arun Watkins

Brockham Badgers U15A 1 - 0 Manorcroft United

2011-11-28T10:48:00.001Z

Another solid performance from Brockham Badgers U15A took their unbeaten run to five. Despite the solitary goal, this was a convincing victory for the Badgers who dominated possession and chances. Another highlight was the developing defensive unit of Jack Coppin, Simon Vakeva-Baird (c), Justin Tarrant, and Oli Gout, keeping a clean sheet and rarely presenting the opposition with any clear cut chances on goal, where James Rabbetts was an almost passive contributor to the game.

Once again Sam Lloyd, Luke Brightman, and Lewis Wood, set the tone for the match in midfield. They set about pressing and passing with sharp movement from the start. This made the work for Brockham’s defence that much easier and enabled them to co-ordinate their shape and build from the back when required.

Joe Silver and Jordan Martin added a cutting edge with width and pace on either flank, whilst Oscar Cremmen’s intelligence in the front line brought them both into play and helped link up some intricate moves with central midfield. This was drawing the Manorcroft defense out and opening space behind them for Silver and Martin to exploit which they did to good effect, fashioning two or three solid chances in the opening fifteen minutes.

It was Lewis Wood who opened the score and settled the game with his first competitive goal of the season and what turned out to be the only goal of the game. Manorcroft conceded a free kick 20 yards from goal which Coppin dropped in behind the defensive line. Three Brockham players beat the off-side trap and were on hand to take advantage when the Manorcroft keeper palmed the ball away. The visitors defence had not responded as quickly and any one of the three black and whites might have scored. It was Wood that took his chance though with an intelligent nod with his head across the keeper when delaying momentarily for the ball to drop to his feet would have been potentially intercepted.

George Gomes continued the good work in midfield when Lloyd was rested for a patch but the game deteriorated in the second half as clumsy and silly challenges rattled in and resulted in three booking for Manorcroft players who ended the game with ten men. Luc Jhugroo and Tom Hampshire stepped in mid-way through the second half to add some fresh momentum and see the game out for a well deserved three points.

Man of the Match: simon Vakeva-Baird and Justin Tarrant

Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians 3-2 Oxshott Royals B (Epsom & Ewell Youth Football League), Saturday 27th November 2011

2011-11-28T00:24:00.001Z

Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians earned a hard fought victory over Oxshott Royals in this Epsom & Ewell Division Three fixture on the Big Field. Barbarians hoped to get back to winning ways after an indifferent performance last week where they were defeated for only the second time in the league this season.

The opening period of the game saw early chances for both teams, a slick passing move from the Barbarians saw Callum Holder test the Oxshott goalkeeper with a shot that he could only spill to Arun Watkins but the goalkeeper redeemed himself with a fine save from Watkins. Moments later an exquisite pass from Ben MacKenzie put Holder through on goal but his attempted lob hit the Oxshott crossbar and bounced to safety.

Barbarians opened the scoring on seven minutes, Lily Turner orchestrating a one, two with Holder before putting MacKenzie through to finish a fine move. Having fallen behind Oxshott turned up the tempo, Barbarian defenders William Glenn, Bailey Osborne and Ben Austin were on hand to make several vital interceptions, however Oxshott’s pressure paid dividends on thirteen minutes with an equalising goal as Barbarians failed to clear a corner.

Barbarians responded with goals either side of half time to put them in a commanding position. Holder gained assists for both goals, firstly squaring the ball across the Oxshott penalty area to provide Watkins with a simple tap in, then providing a pass behind the Oxshott defence for MacKenzie to finish for his second goal of the game.

A late Oxshott goal made for an interesting finale but Barbarians held on for a deserved 3-2 victory.

Brockham: Joshua Snow, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Bailey Osborne, Ben MacKenzie, Arun Watkins, Lily Turner, Callum Holder

Southern Youth League - League Cup - Dorking U18s 3 Balham U18s 2

2011-11-24T13:52:00.001Z

Dorking U18s moved into the quarter finals of the Southern youth League League Cup with a hard fought 3-2 win over Balham, a team looking strong favourites to win the league's Central Division. With Dorking U18s top of the South Division, this was a good test for Simon Coffey's team.

Balham were the better side in the first half, surging into a two goal lead and Dorking had to dig deep as they went into the second half 2-0 down.

But in a game of two halves, Dorking were as good in the second period as Balham had been in the first. Harry Maneh put Dorking back into the game before an own goal drew Chicks youngsters level, the Balham defender caught in a difficult position running into his 6 yard box with Ryan Stewart waiting to tap the ball in behind him, only for the defender's clearance to find his own team's net.

Dorking sensed a winner now and it was Harry Maneh who scored the winner for Dorking to complete a good comeback and give Dorking U18s a home tie in the next round against Oakwood, with either Lingfield or South Park awaiting the winner in the semi final.

Dorking - H Warne, M Legg, J Clark, C Torrisi, I Philpot, J Baker, T Coffey (c), C Worsfold, J Murrell, H Maneh, R Stewart subs S Batchelor, L Armstrong, M Ward, J Aninger

Leatherhead Colts 2 - 3 Brockham Badgers U15A

2011-11-20T20:18:00.001Z

Brockham Badgers U15A came through a real test of character by winning an enthralling game against local rivals Leatherhead 2-3, continuing a little run that sees them four games unbeaten. While Leatherhead took an early lead it was Brockham that set the tone for the game, epitomised by the performance of vice captain Sam Lloyd who pestered the Colts from start to finish with determined challenges, constant pressing, and good link up play in midfield.

It was game on from the start. Both teams were pressing play and it was clear the midfield battleground was where the game would be won. When the Badgers conceded following a parried shot and follow-up tap-in after five minutes no panic set in as they seemed to be playing with no fear and a passion to win for each other.

It was important to respond and boy they did just that. Jordan Martin received the ball wide on the left by-line and ten yards into the greens’ half with his back to goal. A quick turn inside onto his favoured right and without hesitating he punched a lofted shot toward the Leatherhead goal having spotted the keeper off his line. If the BBC were filming it would definitely have made goal of the month. It dropped into the Leatherhead goal and the audacious nature of the goal gave Brockham a shot in the arm and put the Colts into a ten minute period of shock.

For the next phase Brockham flew into fair but strong challenges, winning nearly every 50/50 ball, getting the ball into space and running at the Colts defence. Before too long the Badgers took the lead. A chip from right to left from Martin dropped over Oscar Cremmen’s shoulder onto his natural left and he instinctively buried it with power on the half volley from 15 yards. Stunner.

Shortly after, Joe Silver’s commitment on the left flank was rewarded as he made the score sheet with his head. Leatherhead had conceded a free kick 25 yards from the right of goal. Jack Coppin, who was having a belter of a game at left back, zipped the ball in, an aerial contest saw the ball flicked on, and Silver finished into the roof of the Leatherhead net at the far post.

Half time gave Brockham the opportunity to gather themselves for the war of attrition to follow. The Colts came out to play and commanded a good percentage of possession in the second half. Numerous probing balls were testing the Brockham defence from wide and central positions but the Justin Tarrant and Simon Vakeva-Baird pairing at the centre of the black and whites defence was soaking it up, and Oli Gout was matching Coppin’s performance at left back with an equally impressive match of his own at right back.

Leatherhead did score a deserved second but the relentless work rate of Lloyd, Luke Brightman, Lewis Wood, and latterly George Gomes in midfield was both frustrating the Colts and posing a threat on the counter for them to contend with at times also. Luc Jhugroo made a cameo appearance at centre forward, on for Cremmen, and his natural defensive instincts and energy levels pressed and harried the green’s back line until the final whistle blew.

Man of the Match: Sam Lloyd

Ashstead Colts U10B 2 - 0 Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians (Epsom and Ewell Cup Div 3)

2011-11-20T13:03:00.001Z

A strong home performance by U10 Ashstead Colts B against Brockham Badgers Barbarians produced a 2-0 result and three points for the home side in Division Three of the Epsom and Ewell League.

The game opened with a midfield battle and chances at each end. On seven minutes Brockham's goalkeeper, Josh Snow, denied Ashstead by making a stretching save steering the ball over the top of the goal. The corner was well defended by Thomas Ambrose and cleared down the wing but a long range strike saw the ball come back with real pace straight into Brockham's goal and Ashstead were 1-0 ahead.

The second half started with the same open play as the first with open play and chamges at both ends. Ben MacKenzie was now making trademark probing runs down the left wing placing Ashstead under increased pressure. Unfortunately as Brockham started to push forward looking for the equaliser they became stretched at the back and a quick counter attack by Ashstead saw Brockham's defence outnumbered. A simple pass allowed Ashstead to get one on one with Brockham's keeper and after a brave save, the loose ball was an easy tap resulting in Ashtead going 2-0 in front.

Brockham countered quickly with Callum Holder now running at the Ashstead defence. The pressure on Ashstead continued to build but Brockham were unable to get a goal (despite three corners in quick succession). A last late strike by Badgers winger Ben Austin fizzed wide summing up a disappointing morning for the Badgers.

Man of the Match: Josh Snow

Brockham Badgers: Thomas Ambrose, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Bailey Osborne (Capt.), Josh Snow, Ben MacKenzie, Lily Turner, Arun Watkins,

Southern Youth League - Lewisham U18s 2 Dorking U18s 4

2011-11-17T17:53:00.001Z

Dorking U18s extended their lead at the top of the Southern Youth League South Section to 5 points with a competitive win at Lewisham.

The win makes it a good week for Dorking FC following the first team's solid 2-0 win earlier in the week over Sandhurst Town at Meadowbank.

The Under 18s are having a fine season, still unbeaten in the league, but manager Simon Coffey knew that the trip to Lewisham would prove one of the sternest tests for his side so far this season. The team now boasts 6 players with first team experience under their belts and the confidence given from first team exposure is being sensibly turned to the Dorkign Under 18s advantage by Coffey and his management team.

A two hour journey in rush hour traffic to the SE London club did not help preparations, but Chicks youngsters were out of the blocks quickly nonetheless , a hapless Lewisham defender inadvertently scoring an own goal from a whipped cross from Lewis Armstrong under pressure from Dorking striker Ryan Stewart.

1-0 at half time, Dorking stepped it up in the second period, Stewart making it 2-0 from a Jack Murrell cross soon after the break. LEwisham were making a game of it though and pulled a goal back soon after, but Dorking were able to extend their lead to 3-1 midway through the half when a Harry Maneh half volley from the edge of the box sailed past the keeper, then Josh Clark scored a header from a corner to make it 4-1 with 15 minutes to go. Lewisham kept pushing and were awarded two penalties in quick succession, keeper Henry Warne saving the first, but unable to keep out the second as the home side reduced the arrears. Dorking were content to see out the game to claim yet another win. Dorking Under 18s face Balham at home in the League Cup on Wednesday 23 November, kick off at Meadowbank 7-45pm.

Team - Henry Warne, Marcus Legg, Josh Clark, Connor Torrisi, Isaac Philpott, Lewis Armstrong, Jack Murrell, Darryl Jeeves, Tom Coffey (c), Harry Maneh, Ryan Stewart subs Callum Worsfield, Steven Batchelor, James Baker

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Brockham Badgers Black U11s v Milford Pumas U11s (South Surrey League)

2011-11-16T14:33:00.001Z

First home game of the season was going to be a big challenge. Milford Pumas were top of the league.

It was a bright start by both teams. Milford clearly had real talent among their ranks, with a never-say-die centre half and an ultimate-predator up front.

Brockham's defence struggled early on with their marking and coming to terms with the offside law. But it was Brockham who drew first blood. Oliver and Ezra played a one-two. Ezra headed it neatly down for Oliver to beat a couple of players and return the ball for Ezra to slot home.

Milford soon fought back. Their striker turned at the halfway line and ran directly for goal. Joe Allen did his best to put in the tackle but a delightful chip gave Freddy in goal no chance. One-one.

Henry, Toby and Morgan really gave Brockham some legs and some bite. They began to overwhelm Milford for a period. Then when Henry won a free-kick he lofted it perfectly into the box for Oliver to pop it home and restore Brockham's lead. The quality of dead ball deliveries from Henry and Lucas throughout the game was exceptional. Both boys' free-kicks and corners were fantastic.

Milford soon pulled it back to level pegging with another breakaway from halfway.

Half-Time: Brockham Badgers Black 2 Milford Pumas 2

The second half started all Badgers. Morgan was driving the side on the right and was unlucky when a header hit the bar. There was strong running throughout the game from Morgan who stamped his authority on the game. Lucas went close and made some fine runs down the left as well as some fantastic crosses.

It was a Lucas cross that eventually landed perfectly for Toby to smash in from close range. Toby, as ever, was the ultimate team player: running, tackling, making the right pass; Toby can do it all.

Before Milford tried to get back into the game but then Ezra wriggled past two defenders and beat the keeper with accuracy to give badgers a two goal cushion.

Then Milford really came at them.

Freddy was inspired in goal making saves he had no right to make. Joe and jack were a solid unit in the centre of defence. Morgan threw himself at every shot. Toby and Henry shielded the defence and blocked everything they could reach. Lucas ran down attackers and Adam made some outstanding clearances. It was a real team effort.

At times it seemed impossible that the Milford team hadn't scored, as wave after wave of attacks produced chance after chance. Then with Brockham totally under the cosh they managed a breakaway that saw Toby snathc his second and Brockham's fifth.

It was a flattering score-line, but the right team won.

Final Score: Brockham Badgers Black 5 Milford Pumas 2

Team: Freddy Gil, Morgan Hamilton, Lucas Woolley, Jack Duncan, Joe Allen, Toby Evans, Henry Lucas, Oliver Yeates, Ezra Charles, Adam Bower

Man of the Match: Morgan Hamilton (Defence won the day and Morgan was super committed and released the ball early)

Report: Jason Charles

RE: Brockham Badgers U10A 3 - 1 Elm Grove Colts U10A (Epsom & Ewell Premier Division)

2011-11-14T11:39:00.000Z

Brockham continued their excellent run with another victory at the Big Field, keeping them in 4^th position with games in hand. The home team started brightly, pressuring Elm Grove and pinning them back in their own half. Harrison Watts and Conan Torpey both hit the woodwork and it looked like it was going to be a frustrating day for Brockham. Watts worked hard down the right hand side and game the Elm Grove left back tough job. Just before half time a well weighted cross by Watts was met by Ed Russ whose shot was parried by the keeper but Joe Rabbetts followed up, as per the managers instructions, gaving the home team a 1-0 lead.

Elm Grove came out in the second half far more aggressively and started to pass the ball around The Badgers. Within 10 minutes Elm Grove got the equaliser that they were after and if it were not for some fine stops by Huw Morgan The Badgers would have found themselves trailing. Brockham regained their shape and with his weaker foot Russ restored the lead. With a minute left The Badgers won a corner in the same place as the previous week and Russ and Rabbetts decided to execute the same plan. Russ delivered the corner to the back post where Rabbetts ran on to finish with his head and put the game beyond Elm Grove’s reach.

Man of the match – Harrison Watts

Report by Rick Russ

Brockham Badgers U15A 4 - 4 Epsom & Ewell Colts

2011-11-13T22:15:00.001Z

Four shots, four goals. That was the bad news. Yet again, Brockham dominated possession but were unable to convert enough chances to take all three points. This was another good performance though. Having gone two behind, the Badgers battled back to take a well deserved point.

All the signs were good from the start. The black and whites were seeing the lion’s share of the ball and were looking menacing going forward. In the early part of the first half Jordan Martin and Jack Coppin went close with a brace of shots each, with two hitting the woodwork. The Epsom and Ewell number 4 was having a magnificent game in defence and the Colts keeper was making some smart saves. His counterpart on the other hand, James Rabbetts, was more of a spectator.

Then it all went wrong. A decent through ball, a cracking shot, and the boys in blue and white hoops had bagged one from one after thirty minutes. Disappointment turned to dismay when an opportunity to clear was dithered on. Too many touches and indecision let the Epsom striker nick the ball and Brockham were pinching themselves going into half time two goals down.

Some tactical changes at half time saw Oscar Cremmen take up the striker’s position and Justin Tarrant move into midfield. Martin and Coppin were to hit the Colts full backs with their pace whilst the stronger midfield presence was asked to impose itself on the space between the two teams’ defensive lines. Luck or tactical genius? Who cares – within 5 minutes Brockham were level. Coppin provided a peach of a cross for Martin to convert with his head at the far post for the first, whilst Coppin tapped in from short range for the leveller.

Equilibrium had returned and there seemed there would only be one winner as Brockham pushed forward and saw half or dozen or more good chances go begging in the following fifteen minutes. They were punished for their profligacy. Losing a little discipline and shape in midfield the Badgers allowed the Colts to switch play and run at an exposed defence. Another good through ball, an excellent finish, and the blues from Epsom were ahead again with their third shot on goal.

The Brockham boys were not to be defeated though. Immediately seizing the initiative they made their possession advantage count. Another good cross from Coppin was this time met by the head of Cremmen to make it 3-3, then moments later the Badgers took the lead with a surging run and finish from Martin. With only minutes to go it was time to lock up shop. Unfortunately the Epsom & Ewell lads found the key. Another dithering moment between two Brockham defenders in an otherwise safe position allowed the Colts striker through one on one with Rabbetts. Rabbetts was off his line quickly to narrow the angle, and the Colts centre forward still had much to do, but do he did, and sweetly too, instinctively lofting the ball over the advancing Rabbetts for a measured drop into the net.

In terms of shots and possession it should have been Brockham’s day, but in terms of discipline and shape the Colts could argue a draw and nobody would begrudge them. One loss in five games and plenty of possession feels like a foundation from which the Badgers can push on. Cremmen may even be the answer for the absent Flint.

Man of the Match: Luke Brightman

Surrey Youth Cup U16 - Brockham Badgers U16A 11 Claygate Royals 0

2011-11-13T21:29:00.001Z

Brockham Badgers U16As swept into the third round of the Surrey Cup with a comfortable win over a battling Claygate Royals team.

Brockham are getting stronger with each game, as shown last week when the team could so easily have beaten Premier Elite side Sandgate only to lose narrowly 2-1, and sitting handily placed in 4^th spot in the Premier Division, a good season beckons for the team.

Claygate came to the Big Field as underdogs, two divisions below Brockham, and a goal after just 2 minutes from Harry Ramsey set the tone for the game. It was soon 2-0 as Mike Richardson swept the ball home, but Claygate to their credit did not give up, and although Brockham scored three more before half time, it was not all one way, Brockham keeper Dennis RApson pulling off a great save midway through the half that spoke volumes for his concentration.

Claygate fought hard in the second period, Brockham adding one more just after half time, but it was only in the last 15 minutes that Brockham really made their superior status tell, running in 5 goals in quick succession, including a brace from new player Liam Steere, whose pace and determination bodes well for the rest of the season.

Brockham scorers for the record were George Coffey 2, Harry Ramsey 2, Liam Steere 2, Mike Richardson 2, Frankie Routlef 2, Josh Brown 2

Team – Dennis Rapson, Connor Baker, Will Mahoney, Matt Higgins ©, Will Bletso, Ollie Winter, Harry Morland, Josh Brown, Gecco Navalta, Ali Nicholson, Frankie Routlef, Liam Steer, George Corfield, Mike Richardson, Josh Brown

RE: Brockham Badgers U10A 2 - 1 Bookham Colts U10B (Epsom & Ewell League Cup, Premier and First Division)

2011-11-07T13:36:00.000Z

Brockham secured their place in the second round of The Epsom and Ewell League Cup with a hard fought win against a spirited Bookham side. Brockham never looked like they were going to lose this game but Bookham frustrated the home team, not allowing them to convert possession and opportunities into goals. From the start Brockham applied pressure, forcing numerous corners and having numerous shots on goal. The first Brockham goal came from a pass by Sam Church to Joe Rabbetts on the left who went around the keeper and finished confidently. Bookham managed to get themselves back in the game through a well weighted shot from distance that found Huw Morgan off his line. The second half was full of attacking moves by Brockham but at the end of normal time it was still all square, primarily as a result of some great work by the Bookham Keeper. Brockham maintained the pressure in extra time and a corner from Ed Russ picked out Joe Rabbetts at the back post who headed the goal to spare the team and the crowd the pressure of penalties.

Man of the match – Joe Rabbetts

Report by Rick Russ

Epsom & Ewell Colts 1 - 1 Brockham Badgers U15A (2-4 pens)

2011-11-06T22:27:00.000Z

A dominant performance saw Brockham Badgers U15A through to the third round of the Surrey FA County Youth Cup but not without a nail-biting match full of promise and frustration. If Opta had been there it was 85% possession for the Badgers but despite this the Colts put up dogged opposition and in particular their goalkeeper’s man of the match performance kept them in the game throughout.

Epsom & Ewell went ahead early on. A complacent start by the Badgers saw a lack of pressure on the ball allow a cross in from the Colts right. It was met sweetly in the six yard box by their striker but parried by James Rabbetts in goal. The second ball fell to a player in the blue and white hoops and crashed back into the Brockham net.

This shook the Brockham boys into life and for much of the match it was one way traffic. The Badgers defence was occasionally breached but on each occasion Rabbetts was able to collect or match the shot. With the ball camped in the middle and final thirds of the pitch and very much flowing in the Colts direction the black and whites attempts kept coming but nothing seemed to convert.

Some spectacular saves from the Colts keeper were matched by equally unspectacular finishing by Brockham. There were shots at the keeper, shots wide, shots high, the woodwork, two goal line clearances and a decent penalty shout. Finally Jack Coppin rifled a great ball into the Epsom net from an acute angle following one of many Brockham corners and levelled the game shortly before half time.

The second half followed much the same pattern as that of the first. Badgers dominated possession and with the exception of one or two opportunistic scares Rabbetts was very much a spectator. Sam Lloyd, Jordan Martin, Joe Silver, and Simon Vakeva-Baird all went close but nothing would break for Brockham. The siege continued and the Epsom & Ewell defences held strong right through to extra time and beyond to penalties.

The Badgers had already gone out on penalties to Epsom & Ewell in a League Cup 4-4 thriller three weeks before and were determined not to make the same mistake again. This time the tables were reversed. Justin Tarrant, Sam Lloyd, Oscar Cremmen, and Martin all finished confidently, whilst the hoops missed the target twice.

Brockham’s performances are improving and the team is getting back to full strength and fitness. Confidence is key, and there’s a glimmer of that returning too. It looks like the odd smile is coming back as well.

Man of the Match: Luke Brightman

Oxshott Royals U10A 4 - 1 Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians (Epsom and Ewell Cup)

2011-11-06T16:16:00.001Z

Oxshott Royals and Brockham Badgers Cup Clash
Oxhsott Royals are flying high in Division Two of the Epsom and Ewell League whilst Brockham Badgers currently hold the top spot in Division Three so this cup clash had the potential for a surprise or two.
Brockham fielded a defensive formation to contain their Oxshott and break quickly on the counter attack. Before Brockham could settle into this new formation, two quick goals from a penalty box scuffle and a long range strike saw Oxhsott take a 2-0 lead in the first five minutes.
Brockham regained their composure and started to find their form playing some trademark passing play with strong counter attacking down both wings. Ben MacKenzie, Lily Turner and Arun Watkins combined to test the Oxhsott keeper through the majority of the first half. With two minutes left on the clock Brockham conceded a foul just outside the penalty area, Brockham's wall of Tom Ambrose and Bailey Osbourne stood strong but a well taken strike saw Oxshott find the net and lead 3-0 at half time.
Brockham started the second half pushing hard to close the gap with Callum Holder forcing a couple of early saves from the Oxshott keeper. An Oxshott counter attack saw brave save from keeper Josh Snow as he dived to smother the ball to deny Oxshott a tap-in. Oxshott countered and against the run of play placed a cross into the box which was guided past the Brockham defence to put Oxshott 4-0 in front.
Brockham continued to press and although the hope of a draw was starting to fade, Brockham continued to press and create a series of clear chances forcing some fine saves from the Oxshott keeper. With five minutes left, a well-timed link up between Watkins and Turner saw a pass to Holder splitting the Oxshott defence enabling him to get a late goal.
The final whistle came with a score at 4 – 1 leaving Brockham to concentrate on consolidating their position at the top of the league.
Man of the Match: Ben MacKenzie
Brockham Badgers: Thomas Ambrose, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Bailey Osborne (Capt.), Josh Snow, Ben MacKenzie, Lily Turner, Arun Watkins
Match Reporter: David Ambrose

Kirdford Jumior v Brockham Badgers Black (South Surrey League Division 1)

2011-11-01T15:15:00.001Z

Kirdford away is a tricky fixture and a potential banana skin for the first game of the season. But Badgers went in with high hopes and tactically astute 4-3-1 formation.

Brockham absolutely dominated the first-half. Lucas and Oliver combined brilliantly on the left. For the first ten minutes nobody else seemed to get a touch. Meanwhile their counterparts on the right Morgan and Toby were equally as effective.

Lucas found Ezra with a marvellous through ball. Ezra smashed the ball cleanly but the keeper's position made it an easy save. Badgers then piled on the pressure with their inspirational central midfielder Henry Lucas doing a fine impression of Patrick Vieira.

Eventually the ball broke from a corner for Ezra who neatly tucked it away from close range.

Kirdford had their breaks though as Brockham got sucked in looking for their second goal and our defence was caught out twice before half-time. We went into the break 2-1 down which seemed very strange considering the amount of possession the team had enjoyed. Joe and the debuting Zain had formed a great partnership an even though Kirdford were strong going forward the scoreline didn't reflect the game.

Half-time Kirdford United 2 Brockham Badgers 1

Kirdford had defended brilliantly in the first half and were just as good in the second half, foiling chance after chance. The equaliser came after Ezra chased down and dispossessed a defender and threaded the ball through to Lucas who disguised his finish with real skill. Lucas had been absolutely fantastic throughout the game both in his tackles, his runs and his passing.

Ezra continued to defend from the front. The left axis of Oliver and Lucas was formidable. But slowly Morgan and Toby came to take a bigger and bigger role in the game. They put so much running in to the second half. They have a formidable partnership. Both boys are solid in the tackle and are consummate team players.

Oliver Quigley came on from the bench and made a good contribution in the middle.

Eventually a pass from Oliver to Ezra and then to Lucas set up another brilliant finish. This time Lucas went for power and cracked the ball into the roof of the net. Great football.

The things got a little scary… The Badgers' football declined and too many times players were looking to beat one man too many in midfield when the through ball was on. This left the team open at the back as weary legs could not track back. It looked like Kirdford would sneak an equaliser. All credit to Kirdford for still being in the game at this point. Joe, Zain and George Lees had to be alert at the end as Brockham put the three points in jeopardy when they should really have controlled the game.

In the end they weren't punished for their exuberance and came out with a deserved win.

Full-time

Kirdford United 2 Brockham Badgers 3

Team: George Lees, Morgan Hamilton, Lucas Woolley, Joe Allen, Zain Khan, Toby Evans, Henry Lucas, Oliver Yeates, Ezra Charles, Oliver Quigley.

Man of the Match: Lucas Woolley – a driving force on the left (a better version of Gareth Bale).

Match Report: Jason Charles

Surrey Youth League Under 16 Premier Division - Carshalton Athletic U16 2 Brockham Badgers U16 5

2011-10-30T20:33:00.000Z

Brockham Badgers U16As produced their best performance of the season to move into third place in the Premier Division with a comfortable win over Carshalton Athletic U16s. After 3 years in the top Premier Elite division, Badgers have been slow starters this season following their relegation to the Premier Division last campaign, but the signs are that Brockham are returning to something approaching their best as back to back wins have suddenly pushed Brockham in amongst the league leaders.

Early goals for joint lads of the match Harry Ramsey and Mike Richardson had put Brockham 2-0 up on 20 minutes, but the home team put in their best spell in the last 15 minutes of the first half to first make it 1-2 with a goal from a set piece, then a debatable penalty just before the interval made it 2-2, something of a flattering score for Carshalton. It could have got worse soon after half time when Carshalton almost made it 3-2,striking the post with a richochet from a Brockham clearance. From that point on though it was all Brockham, keeper Dennis Rapson instilling real confidence in his defence with a commanding display, and a fine run through the centre of the Carshalton midfield and defence saw him slot the ball past the keeper to restore the Brockham lead 10 minutes into the second half..

Harry Ramsey then grabbed his second of the match as his pace was used to good effect to make it 4-2. As Carshalton lost their discipline, it was all Brockham in the final 10 minutes and Brockham could have scored more than the one extra goal they scored in the last few minutes, George Coffey finishing well after another strong run from Ramsey had teed up his fellow striker to make the final score 5-2.

Team – Dennis Rapson, Connor Baker, Will Mahoney, Matt Higgins ©, Will Bletso, Josh Brown, Mike Richardson, Ali Nicholson, Frankie Routlef, George Coffey, Harry Ramsey, Harry Morland, Gecco Navalta, Oli Winter

Corinthian Casuals 1 - 2 Brockham Badgers U15A

2011-10-30T19:41:00.001Z

A sizzling performance saw Brockham Badgers U15A get their season off to a belated start with a 2-1 victory away to Corinthian Casuals. Quick pass and move football was back and so was the boys confidence. The Badgers could have been easily five or six to the good by half time. Buoyed by the appearance of Alex Flint for the first time this season, the black and whites weathered some early threats to go on and dominate the game.

Despite travelling with only eleven fit players the make shift left flank of Jack Coppin in defence and Jordan Martin on the wing was working to good effect. Both had the beating of their opposite numbers for pace and Martin was combining with Flint up front to such an extent that Martin could have had three by the twenty minute mark. It was Flint who struck first however. Shrugging off some close attention from his marker he poked the ball beyond the advancing keeper with just enough on it for the ball to roll over the line from 12 yards.

Joe Silver on the right wing had already declared his intentions to the Casuals No.3 facing him with some pacey runs, and with a neat one two worked between him and Luke Brightman he was once again in clear space on 25 minutes. A well delivered cross was cleared by Corinthians for a corner, from which Martin’s in-singer was directed into the back of the net by a Corinthians player to give Brockham a two goal margin.

Despite a soft concession by Brockham taking the score to 2-1 mid-way through the second half, the positive tone of the match continued in much the same fashion as before to the end. Justin Tarrant and Simon Vakeva-Baird dominated the defensive line and between them, George Gomes and Coppin, they snuffed out nearly every Corinthian threat. Luc Jhugroo, Lewis Wood, and Brightman played some neat two touch football which usually led to an incisive pass into the path of either Flint, Martin, or Silver. Martin had two more chances, Wood had a shot and a header cleared from point blank range, as did Vakeva-Baird, whilst Tarrant climbed well to meet a Martin free kick and buried it with his head at the far post only to see the goal ruled offside. James Rabbetts in Brockham’s goal had little to do for once.

Sam Lloyd made a cameo appearance ten minutes from time following three weeks out with injury, and almost got himself on the score sheet. Having been awarded a penalty in the dying seconds he thumped a thunderous spot kick just inside the upright only to see it bounce back out off the square post, across the goal line and out for safety.

The result was no less than the Badgers deserved. The score was tight in the end but the game was comfortably theirs.

Man of the Match: Jordan Martin and Simon Vakeva-Baird

Oxshott Royals B 2-5 Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians (Epsom & Ewell Youth Football League), Saturday 22nd October 2011

2011-10-23T22:23:00.001+01:00

A comfortable victory for the Badgers saw them secure top spot in Epsom & Ewell Division Three for the first time this season. With several key players absent from the team the result was a testament to the quality of players the Badgers have at their disposal this campaign.

A blistering start saw Badgers score twice in the first minute of the game. Callum Holder received the ball from the kick off, skipped past four Oxshott players, and fired into the top corner of the net for a breath-taking goal. Fans debated if they would see a finer goal all season, however within seconds of the restart Luke Page regained possession and produced a carbon copy of Holder’s goal beating four players and the Oxshott keeper with a fine finish. With Oxshott stunned by such a dramatic start Badgers looked to pile more misery with Page hitting the post on five minutes before finishing a wonderful passing move from inside the Badgers half, Lily Turner providing the defence splitting pass for Page to score .

Badgers flooded up field for more goals with Page hitting the post a second time from a long range effort. Oxshott survived the onslaught and a counter attack left Badgers outnumbered in defence for an easy tap to make the score 3 – 1 at half time.

Oxshott started the second half brightly, requiring two important interceptions from William Glenn in defence. Oxshott continued to push forward sensing an opportunity to get back in the game but this was short-lived thanks to a smart Badgers move resulting in Holder bagging his second goal of the game. Captain Bailey Osborne stifled the Oxshott attack and broke out of defence laying the ball off to Turner. With one touch Turner put Holder through on goal for the type of opportunity he relishes to put the Badgers 4 -1 up. Badgers continued to make a series of opportunities without adding to their score, Holder, Turner, and Page combining time and again to create chances for each other.

A smart save from goalkeeper Joshua Snow propelled Badgers in to attack once more; crisp passing between Ben Austin and Page on the edge of the Oxshott area set Page for a long range effort which flew in to the top corner of the Oxshott goal for him to complete his hat trick.

Oxshott grabbed a consolation goal two minutes from time to end the game 5 -2. With Badgers on top of the league they have a two week break from action before facing Oxshott’s A team in the cup.

Players of the Match – Luke Page, Lily Turner, William Glenn

Brockham Badgers – Joshua Snow, Bailey Osbourne, William Glenn, Ben Austin, Lily Turner, Luke Page, Callum Holder

Carhalton Athletic 2 - 0 Brockham Badgers U15A

2011-10-17T11:10:00.000+01:00

Brockham Badgers U15A put in a much improved performance despite a 2-0 loss away to Carshalton. For the first time this season the Badgers were able to field almost a full strength squad and this made the world of difference to their shape and organisation. The back four of Oli Gout, Simon Vakeva-Baird (c), Justin Tarrant, and Luke Brightman looked very solid and they performed superbly. Tarrant and Vakeva-Baird were decisive and organised at the centre, dropping off well, and building play with simple but effective interceptions and distribution. Communication centred around this pair and it paid tremendous dividends in confidence and discipline. Gout and Brightman were bright and strong, being both effective in defensive and offensive phases, Brightman in particular earning himself the man of the match award.

A new look midfield of Luc Jhugroo, George Gomes, and Oscar Cremmen occupied the central space much better and pressed play in the way the Badgers have earned their reputation from in more successful seasons gone by. Luc Jhugroo put in a particularly impressive performance in front of the back four, breaking up play and frustrating the home boys.

Jordan Martin put in his usual 100% effort up front, being patient and never giving up on himself or his team, whilst both Joe Silver and Jack Coppin put in good shifts in wide positions.

Unfortunately the Badgers conceded direct from a corner in the early minutes, and from a well taken far post header in the dying minutes of the game. The first was avoidable – poor organisation in defending the set piece and a weak attempt at a clearance saw the ball bounce in front of an unsighted James Rabbetts who otherwise had a spectacular game – but the team can take heart from the fact they kept Carshalton at bay and relatively quiet for 75 minutes of the game between both goals. In fact Vakeva-Baird could have had a brace had his headers from two set pieces been better directed. This in itself was very positive progress however as the boys took it upon themselves to work out effective dead ball systems, using Vakeva-Baird and Tarrant as target men which to date has not seen their height advantage maximised.

If there’s anything Brockham are short of right now however, it is attacking options. The defence is shaping up and midfield now has competition with the excellent Lewis Wood chomping at the bit, and the terrier like Sam Lloyd soon to return from injury. An addition in defence and midfield would add to competition but the black and whites badly need a finisher and another wide player. Service would then improve, strengths in current players could be used to best effect, and more competition in offensive areas would improve performances. Any local Year 10 players, capable of playing at a very high level should contact Jason Rabbetts at jason.rabbetts@unionsolutions.co.uk.

All in all a good weekend. Things are looking up. Perhaps a corner has been turned.

Man of the match: Luke Brightman

Molesey 2-6 Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians (Epsom & Ewell Youth Football League), Saturday 15th October 2011

2011-10-15T21:23:00.000+01:00

Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians 6- 2 Molesey Juniors

Badgers U10 Barbarians maintained their impressive start to the season with a convincing away win against Molesey Juniors to place them third in Epsom & Ewell Division Three, just a point behind the leaders.

Molesey enjoyed the majority of early possession without threating the Badgers goal. A series of quick fire counter attacks from the Badgers almost opened the scoring with fine work from Ben Austin on the right of midfield creating chances for Callum Holder and Lily Turner.

Molesey were unable to keep Badgers at bay for long as two goals in as many minutes put the Badgers firmly in control of the match, Lilly Turner creating for Callum Holder to open the scoring on ten minutes. A superb break- away goal starting from a great save from goalkeeper Joshua Snow ended with Badgers captain Bailey Osbourne netting his first goal of the season. Just before half time another counter attack from the Badgers saw Holder on the score sheet again converting his own rebound after the Molesey keeper made a good save from his initial shot.

Early in the second half Badgers found themselves outnumbered in defence allowing Molesey to get back in the game with a goal, stern tackling from Badgers defenders William Glenn and Ben Austin prevented Molesey from adding to their score.

Badgers required a driving force to put them back in the ascendency and this came from midfield general Arun Watkins who was instrumental in Badgers scoring three goals in quick succession. Watkins displayed his range of skills in a single move by winning the ball in midfield with a fine tackle; beating a man before sliding an inch perfect through ball to Ben MacKenzie who was denied by a fine save from the Molesey goalkeeper. Seconds later another Watkins pass found Holder, on a hat trick, with only the keeper to beat which he expertly converted to restore Badgers three goal advantage. Holder added his fourth and Badgers fifth a minute later with another fine finish.

The strong team spirit which exists in this Badgers team was personified by Holder who set up an easy tap in for Turner when faced one on one with the Molesey keeper to give the Badgers a 6 – 1 lead. A late Molesey goal did not mar another fine Badgers performance which sets them in good stead for a series of away games in the coming weeks.

Men of the Match: Ben Austin & Callum Holder.

Squad: Joshua Snow, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Bailey Osbourne, Ben MacKenzie, Arun Watkins, Lily Turner, Callum Holder

RE: Leatherhead Youth U10A 3 - 0 Brockham Badgers U10A (Epsom & Ewell League Premier Division, Under 10s)

2011-10-10T09:34:00.001+01:00

Brockham turned up at Leatherhead in confident mood following 3 consecutive league wins, perhaps that was to be to their detriment. Both teams passed the ball well and there was pressure at both ends but for the majority of the first half there were no clear cut chances on goal. Owen Knowles for Brockham took a nasty knock on the ankle, requiring his substitution and potentially ruling him out some upcoming internationals in Italy. Just before half time Brockham were caught with Leatherhead breaking 3 on 1 but were saved by the post.

A good build up by Leatherhead and a well executed finish gave Leatherhead the lead early in the second half. Brockham came back and pressured Leatherhead but never looked threatening enough to equalise. They were soon punished at the other end by a brace of Leatherhead goals that capped a disappointing performance for Brockham.

Report by Rick Russ

Brockham Badgers U11 - Old Walcountians Tournament

2011-10-07T09:28:00.001+01:00

The Old Walcountians tournament was a welcome opportunity for the boys to cut their teeth on the 9 a-side rules and pitches. The team went to the tournament full of hope for the new season and eager to play on the bigger pitches.

In a six team league format there would be no room for errors. The games were six minutes each way meaning the first goal would be vital.

Brockham Badgers v Twickenham Sharks

The badgers had a long wait for their first game. And for a very brief spell Twickenham passed the ball around nicely and had The Badgers pinned back.

A breakaway on the left started by Lucas Woolley and ending with him striking a superb shot was The Badger's first real threat. It was the save of the day. It was great to see Lucas back in black-and-white stripes. His running, tackling and shooting were even better than the fans could remember.

This set the tone for the rest of the game as Brockham got closer and close to scoring but just couldn't quite get the goal.

Zain looked very composed at the back. He intercepted well and his passing was spot on. He looks ready to have a terrific season.

Henry Lucas was exemplary as ever, reading the angles like an Oxbridge Geometrist. Henry seemed two moves ahead of the opposition and was able to set up a lot of attacks by cutting out the through balls.

Despite many chances Brockham couldn't find the net. The team just ran out of time.

Full Time: Brockham Badgers 0 Twickenham Sharks 0

Brockham Badgers v Kingswood Falcons

Brockham started where they left off. They applied all the pressure in the game but the new offside rule began to bite.

Debutant Lucas Collins had a great start to his Brockham career. Reminiscent of Didier Deschamps, Lucas was the ultimate team player: covering any holes at the back; supporting the striker; making all the right decisions for the team. You could feel the team growing in confidence and Lucas had a big part to play in it.

Morgan held the right back position really well. The coaches' 4-3-1 seemed like an inspired formation and Morgan's strength and running was helping to make it work. He gave everything down the right flank and had the opposition pinned back.

Adam Bower slotted in at left back and put in a very disciplined performance. He kept his defensive duties and never stopped hassling the man he was marking. Adam also brought his left foot into play with some excellent crosses.

The Badgers were unlucky with an offside decision or two but once again they ran out of time despite dominating.

Full Time: Brockham Badgers 0 Kingswood Falcons 0

Brockham Badgers v AFC Old Walcountians

Brockham needed a bit of luck after controlling their first two games but now they'd be up against the hosts.

Josh Oram, another new signing, showed some great vision and awareness with his passing. Josh looked like a polished performer who looks likely to score lots of assists in the coming season. He started this game in fine form.

Alfie Carson was committed and full of running for his team mates. Strong and decisive in the challenge, Alfie looks like he'll be giving a lot of strikers sleepless nights this season.

The goal we needed eventually came. Adam Bower and Lucas Woolley were all over the opposition and when the ball finally broke for George Lees he made a tricky finish look easy. George had run his heart out and was using his strength really well. His keeping had been without a fault and his outfield play was skilful and effective.

Badgers might have had more but were happy to get their win.

Full-Time: Brockham Badgers 1 AFC Old Walcountians 0

Brockham Badgers V Oxshott Royals Colts

Oxshott needed a draw to win the tournament. They were the favourites going into the tournament and were always considered to be the team to beat.

While Oxshott started well it was only a matter of time before Jack Duncan, The Badger's Iron Man, ran them down. Jack was superb. Once he got a grip on the game he wouldn't let it go. Jack made sure that The badgers slowly took over.

Ezra Charles had been a whisker away with headers and shots in the previous games and was determined to score. With chances coming and going Ezra kept to the task. Nice close control saw him link with Lucas and Lucas again and again. Eventually it was great work by Lucas Woolley who crossed the ball for Ezra to come in at the back post and slot home.

It all looked to be going Borckham's way until the team were caught out looking for the second goal. Oxshott found themselves through on goal with Toby Evans with no chance of catching their striker…

But somehow he did catch him. Toby had a fine game and a great tournament. He saved the day with tackles. He played intelligently throughout. Always in the right place. A constant nuisance to the opposition's man on the ball. And always looking to pass and hold his position. And when the final whistle sounded the boys had a lot to thank him for.

Full-Time: Brockham Badgers 1 Oxshott Royals Colts 0

A little bit of maths later and Brockham were proclaimed the winners. It was a deserved victory for the players, who came together as a team, and the coaches, who got their tactics right every time.

First week of September and silverware already I the cabinet! Get in!

Match Report: Jason Charles

Squad: George Lees, Morgan Hamilton, Lucas Woolley, Jack Duncan, Henry Lucas, Zain Khan, Toby Evans, Josh Oram, Ezra Charles, Lucas Collins, Alfie Carson and Adam Bower

RE: Brockham Badgers U10A 2 - 1 Worcester Park Colts U10A (Epsom & Ewell League Premier Division, Under 10s)

2011-10-03T08:20:00.001+01:00

Worcester Park turned up in a very positive frame of mind and passed the ball around a Brockham side that appeared to be half asleep. For the first 15 minutes Brockham had to defend in numbers to stave off the relentless pressure from Worcester Park, until Will Timmons at left back for Brockham struck gold. Timmons, half way in his own half, controlled the ball, looked up and seeing the keeper off his line lifted the ball over the keepers head to put Brockham in front, against the run of play. Critical saves by Brockham Keeper, Huw Morgan, kept Brockham’s lead intact at the half way point.

Brockham came out in the second half and started to look like the better team. Conan Torpey hit the post for Brockham and Huw Morgan continued to work his magic for the home side. Harrison Watts scored his first goal for The Badgers will a well taken finish to make it 2-0, but the game was not won. Worcester Park never stopped pushing forward and were rewarded with goal 10 minutes before full time. A tough game for Brockham but they managed to grind out a result, something they failed to do last season and with 9 points from their first 3 games they couldn’t have wished for a better start to the season.

Man of the match – Huw Morgan

Report by Rick Russ

Brockham Badgers Barbarians 4 - 0 Molesey Juniors U10 (Epsom and Ewell League, Division 3)

2011-10-02T20:17:00.001+01:00

Snow helps keep a clean sheet on the Big Field

It was a hot sunny morning when Brockham Badgers Barbarians U10 team welcomed Molesey Juniors to The Big Field for their Epsom and Ewell League encounter.
Molesey won the toss and kicked off but Brockham were soon in control with Arun Watkins and Bailey Osborne both pushing forward the attack.
After twelve minutes of pressure, Brockham's effort paid dividends. Ben MacKenzie pushed forward and made a stunning long range shot, the Molesey keeper parried the save but only managed to clear the ball to Brockham's Watkins who coolly converted. 1 – 0 to Brockham Barbarians.
Brockham's defensive line-up of William Glen and Tom Ambrose were making light work of repelling the Molesey attack, however a goal mouth scuffle saw Josh Snow bravely dive onto the ball to keep a clean sheet for Brockham as they approached half-time.
The half-time team talk from Brockham's coaching team of Holder and Watkins must have been right on the money as Brockham returned to the field with renewed determination to press home their advantage. At nine minutes a breakthrough came as Brockham's Lily Turner passed to Callum Holder who pushed forward and made a clean strike on the edge of the area to place Brockham 2 - 0 ahead.
Molesey broke back quickly and a free kick was awarded on the edge of Brockham area. A powerful strike looked certain to give Molesey some hope when Snow made a spectacular save pushing the ball over the top left hand corner.
With five minutes left, Brockham started to look like they were in control when Ben Austin made a break down the left wing passing to Callum Holder who struck at a sublime angle to net his second. 3 – 0 to Brockham.
Only one minute later Brockham were again on the attack aiming to pile more misery on Molesey as they could see the game stretching beyond their reach. Another Holder strike saw a deflection from Watkins towards Turner as she gracefully steered the ball into the back of Molesey goal.
The final whistle came to Molesey's relief with the score at 4 – 0 to Brockham Badgers.
Man of the Match: Josh Snow
Brockham Badgers: Thomas Ambrose, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Bailey Osborne (Capt.), Josh Snow, Ben MacKenzie, Lily Turner, Arun Watkins
Match Reporter: David Ambrose

Ewell Saxons 0 - 3 Brockham Badgers U10A

2011-09-18T20:45:00.000+01:00

Brockham Badgers U10 Assassins maintained their 100% start to the season with a 3-0 away victory over Ewell Saxons. The first goal went in after just 2 minutes when the ball was slipped through by Harrison Watts and Conan Torpey bundled the ball over the line. Brockham had control in the midfield where Owen Knowles was dominant, and attacked with pace from out wide. This paid off after 15 minutes Joe Rabbetts squared a ball from the left to Torpey who worked a nice on two into the continued run of Rabbetts who in turn scored from close range. Torpey then made it 3 after 20 minutes with a powerful right foot finish. Brockham were now looking comfortable as the rain started to sprinkle down.

During second half Brockham continued to attack with Rabbetts making several good runs down the left and Matthew Chapman likewise on the right. Torpey, along with Sam Church were denied by good saves. As the game wore on Ewell had a couple of chances, one which produced a spectacular double save from goalkeeper Huw Morgan. However William Timmons, who had an excellent game, and Church were extremely solid in defence throughout, with Knowles putting in a man of the match performance in front of them, and the team managed to close the game out with a clean sheet. All in all a good start to what could be a very exciting season.

Lad of the Match: Owen Knowles

Wandgas Youth 4 - 2 Brockham Badgers U15A

2011-09-18T20:40:00.001+01:00

Brockham Badgers U15A’s hangover from last season’s Premier Elite humbling seems to have continued. After losing their opening game of the season by three goals to nil versus Barnes Eagles a week earlier, the Badgers failed to collect any points following a 4-2 defeat away to Wandgas this weekend.

To be fair, the black and whites dominated possession in the first half with excellent midfield work from Luc Jhugroo, Lewis Wood, and Sam Lloyd, who were given space and options by positive wide runs from Luke Brightman as a stand-in left winger, and Jordan Martin on the right. They were well supported by threatening overlaps and the high line pressure of George Gomes and Oscar Cremmen, and it was justification for a bright start that they took an early lead on 9 minutes when Jordan Martin was put through one on one with the keeper and finished confidently. A fantastic slide rule pass from Wandgas however was latched onto by their striker who timed his run perfectly and finished equally as convincingly after twenty five minutes to level the game.

Brockham continued to claim the lion’s share of play throughout the remainder of the first half with prolonged sequences of passes that eluded them the week before, and it looked as if it would be Brockham that might nick one before the break with most of the play taking place in the Wandgas third and the defensive pairing of Justin Tarrant and Simon Vakeva-Baird (c) looking very promising. A rare moment of defensive hesitation in an area where the ball should have been of no danger however created a situation that enabled the Wandsworth boys to play a quick one two and slide a low ball under the diving Brockham keeper and turn the game on its head.

In the second half Wandgas pressed the game much better. The space to pass was restricted and they gradually forced their game plan onto the Badgers. The possession advantage was reversed for most of the second half and with an increasing amount of pressure put in and around the box by the boys in purple it was only a matter of time before Brockham conceded again when a positive run down the left to the by-line by the Wandgas winger looked to predictably conclude with a pass across goal, but instead he pulled off a marvellous tight angled shot to surprise everyone, not least James Rabbetts in the Badgers goal.

That was then shortly followed by a speculative shot that sadly slipped through the normally assured hands of Rabbetts giving Wadgas a three goal lead. Rabbetts redeemed himself soon after with a spectacular leaping mid-air punch from under the cross bar following a fierce Wandgas free-kick. It was end to end stuff now as the Badgers switched to 4-4-2 and the striking combination of Luke Brightman and Joe Silver gave Wandgas more to think about. Tom Hampshire slotted into central defence very well and Vakeva-Baird took a natural left footer to the wide midfield berth. Both teams hit the woodwork twice, two or three good saves were drawn from each keeper and then Brockham pulled a consolation goal back with five minutes to play. Martin the scorer once more from a free kick which deflected in off a Wandgas head.

The were some very bright signs from the Brockham lads. Organisation and shape was better, and for large passages of play they showed the talent to good effect and worked as a team. If they can add greater concentration and work rate to their game over the coming weeks they should do well.

Lad of the Match: Luc Jhugroo

Horsley FC B 4 - 3 Brockham Badgers Barbarians U10 (Epsom and Ewell League, Division 3)

2011-09-18T20:05:00.001+01:00

Brockham and Horsley in Seven Goal Thriller.
Brockham Barbarians U10s travelled to Tom's Field to meet Horsley Football Club in the Epsom & Ewell League. Both teams were buoyed by strong victories in their first games and for those that thought the encounter looked full of promise, it certainly didn't disappoint.
Brockham were out of the gate quickly and an early strike one minute into the game by Callum Holder forced a good save from the Horsley keeper. Chances continued to come for both teams and with five minutes on the clock, a failed clearance by Brockham led to a goal-mouth scuffle and Horsley broke the deadlock to lead 1-0.
Brockham's Tom Ambrose, Lily Turner and Arun Watkins controlled the midfield and started to push the game back to Horsley. At eleven minutes Ambrose made a sweeping pass to Holder giving him the opportunity to run at the Horsley defence, drawing players towards him he turned and squared the ball to Lily Turner who clinically converted for Brockham levelling the score at 1-1.
The goal had the right impact on Horsley who began a continuous attack the Brockham goal, some very strong defending by Bailey Osborne (Capt.) and Ben MacKenzie kept the score level. However after fifteen minutes, Horsley broke from the halfway line and found the space to snatch a goal and take a 2-1 lead. From the next kick-off Brockham were now resurgent with Watkins and Holder combining with some fine passing to allow Holder to slot home Brockham's second just before the whistle blew for half time.
The new half saw William Glen and Ben Austin join the field for Brockham and within three minutes a mistake by Brockham resulted in an own goal giving the lead at 3-2 back to Horsley. The game was starting to become stretched and both teams played some excellent football but the second half started to see some tired legs. With five minutes left, Brockham's goalkeeper, Josh Snow, made a lunging save to push the ball over the cross bar to keep his team in the game, a quick series of passes from Brockham's midfield enabled Callum Holder to pick up the ball and skip past the Horsley defence to drill home his second levelling the score at 3-3.
With just a couple of minutes left on the clock, both teams could sense the opportunity of a late goal to win the match and attempts flowed at either end. A late long range Horsley strike saw the ball skip into the bottom right hand corner of the Brockham goal giving the lead to Horsley. Within moments the full-time whistle sounded although both teams played great flowing football, Brockham left the pitch feeling they deserved more.
Man of the Match: Callum Holder
Brockham: Josh Snow, Bailey Osborne (Capt.), William Glenn, Callum Holder, Tom Ambrose, Ben MacKenzie, Lily Turner, Arun Watkins, Ben Austin
Match Reporter: David Ambrose

RE: Old Coulsdon Colts U10A 2 - 4 Brockham Badgers U10A (Epsom & Ewell League Premier Division, Under 10s)

2011-09-13T09:59:00.000+01:00

Bouyed by their pre-season tournament success Brockham were looking to come away with 3 points from their trip to Old Coulsdon Colts, a fixture that they lost last year. The Badgers started positively with some wonderful passing and movement. The first goal came from Owen Knowles out on the right, having won a strong tackle in midfield he saw an opportunity and scored a belter from 20 yards. Sam Church, a rock at right back pushed up to score Brockham’s second. Coulsdon pressed Brockham and were soon back in the game with a goal. George Wryde used his pace down the left to great effect and managed to re-establish Brockham’s 2 goal advantage before half time. Couldson continued to have chances one of which was goal bound had keeper Huw Morgan not managed to get his finger tips to it.

The second half started with pressure from Couldson causing Brockham to start to losing their shape. The Brockham defence held firm with positive performances from Will Timmons, Sam Church and Huw Morgan but with 10 minutes to go they cracked and Couldson looked to be back in the game. Coulsdon’s prospects were soon curtailed with a break and a cracking finish by Owen Knowles to make the final score 2-4. A great start to the season for Brockham.

Man of the match – Sam Church

Report by Rick Russ

Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians 5-2 Leatherhead Youth Juniors U10 (Epsom & Ewell League Division 3), Saturday 10th September 2011

2011-09-11T15:47:00.003+01:00

Bright start for Badgers

Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians kicked off the new season with an impressive performance against Leatherhead. Supporters were eager to see how the Badgers would fair in the Epsom & Ewell league and the team certainly did not disappoint.

Badgers set out their stall from kick-off with high tempo, attacking football. Arun Watkins and Tom Ambrose provided a wall of steel in the middle of the park allowing Ben Mackenzie to maraud down the right wing and link with Callum Holder to create a number of early opportunities.

With the Badgers keeping possession in a manner that belied their age it, appeared just a matter of time before they took the lead. With ten minutes on the clock the Badgers did just that, a corner falling to Arun Watkins on the edge of the area which he rifled into the Leatherhead net. Three minutes later Callum Holder collected the ball barely inside the Leatherhead half, beat two Leatherhead defenders and fired into the bottom right corner to give the Badgers an early two-goal advantage.

To their credit, Leatherhead battled back and looked to catch the Badgers on the counter-attack. However assured defending from Baily Osbourne and William Glenn left Badgers’ goalkeeper Joshua Snow as a spectator for much of the half.

The second half provided the Badgers with the opportunity to demonstrate the strength of their squad, with Lilly Turner and Ben Austin effortlessly easing into the game. Not content with resting on a two-goal lead, the Badger quickly added a third and fourth goal inside the first five minutes. Callum Holder converted a misplaced Leatherhead goal kick and Lilly Turner netted from close range after another superb corner from Arun Watkins.

Leatherhead displayed strong character to enjoy their best spell of possession at a time when most other teams would have thrown in the towel. With tackles flying in across the midfield Badgers found themselves outnumbered in defence and there was little Badgers goalkeeper Joshua Snow could do to prevent Leatherhead from scoring. 4-1 Badgers.

Revitalised by their goal, Leatherhead took the game to the Badgers calling on Joshua Snow in goal to make some crucial saves and interventions. An alliance of stern defending from Ben Austin and Bailey Osbourne kept Leatherhead at bay. End-to-end football ensued but it was the Badgers who were most decisive with Callum Holder completing a hat-trick after a long range effort from Ben Mackenzie. Leatherhead pulled another goal back after an unfortunate own goal from the Badgers but it did not mar a fine team performance for the Badgers on their Epsom & Ewell league debut.

Man of the Match: Joshua Snow

Squad: Joshua Snow, Bailey Osbourne, William Glenn, Tom Ambrose, Arun Watkins, Ben Mackenzie, Callum Holder, Lilly Turner, Ben Austin.

Match reporter: Matt Snow

Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians 5-2 Leatherhead Youth Juniors U10 (Epsom & Ewell League Division 3), Saturday 10th September 2011

2011-09-11T15:47:00.001+01:00

Six goals but honours even in Brockham Barbarians U10 first game of the season

It was the first game of the new season for Brockham Badgers U10 Barbarians as they welcomed Ewell Saxons B to a friendly match at the Big Field in Brockham. The Barbarians set about their work from the first whistle with the free flowing football that they had demonstrated all last season promising a game full of goals.

The Ewell defence was under pressure almost immediately with repeated attacks from the Brockham team, each player keen to claim the first goal of the new season. The deadlock did not take long to break as a curling cross was not cleared by the Saxons and Tom Ambrose seized his moment and belted home their first goal. 1-0 to the Barbarians.

The Saxons goalkeeper was having a hard day at the office with repeated Brockham attacks coming from Callum Holder, Jos Kowal and Ben MacKenzie (Capt.).

The game saw goal mouth action at either end with some sound defensive play from Brockham’s William Glenn and Bailey Osborne, whilst a fantastic save from Josh Snow at 18 minutes kept the Badgers in front. The clock had almost clicked to half time when the Ewell attack burst forward and scored a late equaliser leaving the two teams with honours even at half time.

The half time team talk from Badgers Managers’ Holder and Watkins made a difference as Brockham burst into the second half. Ben Austin (Capt. For second half) and Arun Watkins entered the game and placed the Ewell defence back under pressure. Seven minutes into the second half and the status quo was broken, a fantastic solo effort by Callum Holder saw him run with the ball the length of the pitch hugging the left wing with the reward of a well taken goal. 2-1 to the Barbarians.

The Badgers could see more goals in the game and within another minute Holder was again terrorising the Ewell defence resulting in another goal. 3-1 to the Barbarians.

Ewell were shaken by the onslaught but managed to regroup and players on both sides were tested with resolute defending by Brockham’s Ambrose and Glenn.

Midway through the second half another goal came as some luck fell to the Saxons and they pulled the score line back to 3-2. Brockham were pushing for a fourth goal with Watkins and Holder both continuing to pressurise Ewell. The game finished in the same way as the first half with the Saxons snatching a late goal to level the scores at 3-3 but Brockham feeling they deserved more.

Man of the Match: William Glenn

Brockham: Josh Snow, Bailey Osbourne, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Tom Ambrose, Ben MaqcKenzie (Capt.), Jos Kowal, Arun Watkins, Ben Austin (Capt.).

U16 End of an Era Tour to Hampshire

2011-04-17T12:31:00.001+01:00

Brockham Badgers U16s took part in their third annual tour to Hampshire at the weekend, this time the tour marking an end of an era as the squad will not be together next season as the Horsham and District league does not have an under 17 league.

Organised as usual to an exemplary level by tour organiser Alan Atkinson, the team played two games, both against teams in the top Southampton and district league. Coach Nick Torpey managed the squad of 13 players, who came from both the A and B squads.

The first game on the Friday afternoon saw Brockham play Calden Common, at Fleming Leisure Park, Eastleigh. A very even match saw Brockham’s use of subs the decisive factor on a warm afternoon, Calden only fielding a bare 11 players. Stephen Kehl took advantage of a mix up between a defender and the keeper to roll the ball home, Henry Hill made it 2-0 with 10 minutes to go. Calden did pull a goal back in injury time to put a fairer reflection on the scoreline

The next day, Brockham played Eastleigh FC Academy U16s, second in their league and already having won two cups this season. The Academy feeds into Eastleigh’s first team, currently in the conference south and with designs to push into the full conference, and from the off at the University of Southampton playing fields Eastleigh showed their class. Brockham chased and closed down well but inevitably, Eastleigh were able to break through, scoring severel times towards half time on an immaculate surface.

Coach Nick Torpey was pleased with the effort shown in a 90 minute game as Brockham never stopped, but some fine long range strikes and team moves saw Eastleigh ease to a comfortable win.

The squad were then invited by Eastleigh FC to watch the conference south game vs Ebsfleet as guests of the club to round off a great tour for the boys and parents alike.

Henry Smith was named as player of the tour.

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Henry Smith, Joe Parker, Jack Hunt, Tom Bletso, Will Bletso, Josh Caldwell, Ben Wright, James Stone, George Corfield, Henry Hill, Stephen Kehl, David Atkinson

Report by Bryan Bletso

Badgers U15A 1 - 3 Guildford Academicals (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-04-11T08:47:00.001+01:00

Brockham were looking for precious points from this penultimate match of the season against Surrey County Cup finalists Guildford to help stave off the threat of relegation, and were also hoping to avenge two earlier defeats in away games at Academicals in which they felt the scorelines did not reflect the closeness of the encounters. Unfortunately, the story was to repeat itself in what has become a familiar theme this season; Badgers brilliant in patches, dominating large portions of the game but ultimately wasteful and lacking confidence in front of goal, and more than charitable at the back.

Guildford took a half-time lead against the run of play, scoring minutes before the break after Brockham had dominated the last 20 minutes. Before the goal, striker Eb Isiakpona had a searing shot brilliantly tipped over by the visiting keeper, then Josh Brown had two good chances which he took well, but somehow the Guildford defence kept the first effort out and then the keeper made another fine save.

Badgers stepped up the pressure after the break, reducing the visitors to a series of long balls punted forward, with Harvey Mewis and Mike Richardson probing in the centre, and Harry Ramsey and Chris Brooks lively on the flanks. Strike partners George Coffey and Eb Isiakpona were holding the ball up well and keeping the Guildford defence on their toes. Before long, left back Conor Baker went on a dazzling run down the wing and beat his man, driving towards the box and delivering a cross which Harry Ramsey met well to hook the ball in from close range. Parity restored, and at last it seemed Brockham might get that valuable point or even three. Sadly, possession was surrendered too easily allowing Guildford to retake the lead with a well-taken goal, and a comedy of errors for the third goal ripped the fight out of the home side.

This leaves Badgers needing points from their last match, a daunting away tie on 1^st May at league champion contenders Wycombe Wanderers, but they will go there and doubtless give it their all.

Squad: Tom Wells, Will Mahoney, Matt Higgins, Will Bletso, Connor Baker, Oli Winter, Mike Richardson, Josh Brown, Harvey Mewis, Harry Ramsey, George Coffey, Chris Brooks, Alex Nicholson, Eb Isiakpona, Frankie Routleffe.

Report by Simon Winter

Dorkinians U16 2 - 0 Badgers U16A (Horsham and District B League)

2011-04-06T07:24:00.001+01:00

Dorkinians U16 made it honours shared for the season with a revenge win over Brockham to make it one win apiece in their head to head league games following Brockham's win in the other league fixture two weeks ago.

The game was played between the current top two teams in the division, Dorkinians going into the game 3 points ahead of Badgers, but Brockham having the chance to overhaul their local rivals and possibly land the title with a big win, depending on other results.

However, a big win for Brockham never looked likely on the day and the outcome was a deserved win for Dorkinians who were sharper throughout, especially in midfield. Brockham will though be disappointed with how they played in what was their last league game for the club, as the performance was well below what they are capable of.

Goals either side of half time from set pieces were Brockham's undoing, while at the other end, Brockham were unable to take advantage of some good opportunities, particularly in the first half.

The win takes Dorkinians a step closer to the title, but that depends on other results going Dorkinians way.

Scoop Man of Match: Will Bletso

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Henry Smith, Joe Parker. Tom Bletso (c), Jack Hunt, Charlie Holmes, Mike Carty. Ollie Smith, Ollie Legg, Will Bletso, Stephen Kehl, Aaron Clark, Henry Hill

Report by Bryan Bletso

Old Coulsdon Colts 2 - 1 Badgers U9A (Epsom and Ewell Premier Division)

2011-04-03T20:15:00.003+01:00

An excellent football spectacle from both teams went the way of Old Coulsdon Colts as they notched up a 2-1 win against Brockham Badgers U9A at the Big Field on Saturday. There were two very different footballing philosophies on display but each created an enthralling match to watch. Brockham played the ball out from the back and liked to spread play wide when in possession. The Colts approach was more direct and central but equally as effective with some skilful young lads up front and in midfield.

An early attempt on goal in the opening minutes saw Old Coulsdon take the lead. A long goal-kick sailed over the Brockham midfield and was allowed to bounce to the feet of the Colts forward line. For most watching there was little danger and a lot still to do but the sprightly striker hit it first time with technique and purposeful direction, tucking it beautifully into the corner of the Brockham goal from 15 yards.

Most of the remainder of the first half was end to end stuff but the defensive pairing of Sam Church and William Timmons was showing real promise for the black and whites. It gave Matthew Chapman in goal the confidence to play out from the back and numerous attacks were built by the pair whilst they also broke down the Colts own marauding runs with impressive composure and guile.

The second half saw Edward Russ come on for Joss Hunt, pushing George Wryde out to the left and Joe Rabbetts switching to the striker’s position. The impact was instant. A jinking run using both feet from Wryde ended in a pin perfect left to right pass across the face of goal. Rabbetts had timed his run perfectly and poked the ball in to level the game and notch his fifteenth competitive goal of the season.

Wryde, Rabbetts, Russ, Knowles, and Routleff all went close, and Chapman had to pull off some fine saves to keep Old Coulsdon out as well. As the minutes ticked by it looked destined for stalemate but a moment of genius from the Coulsdon boys sealed it. A ball in another innocuous position was met sweetly on the half-volley by the Colts left midfielder and everyone watched in awe as it arced over defence and keeper alike to bury itself in the top of the Badgers net. If there was ever a goal to lose to in the last minute, that was it.

Lad of the Match: Matthew Chapman

Report by Jason Rabbetts

Netherne Falcons 3 - 2 Badgers U14A (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-04-03T19:41:00.003+01:00

What a breathtaking match. It had its share of incident and controversy, culminating disappointingly in a last second goal to break the Badgers hearts.

Brockham found themselves two goals down in the first half which, despite Netherne’s early dominance, flattered the hosts. Their first was a long ball over the top which the lively and impressive No.10 rolled past James Rabbetts in goal, having beaten the off-side trap. The second was worked to the left and struck low and hard beyond the diving Rabbetts from 10 yards.

Despite this Brockham were playing well and looked organised and composed enough to challenge a Netherne side who have found themselves in the Surrey FA County Cup Final for the second year in succession. Challenge they did in the second half. Flying out of the traps from the restart the black and whites pressed play impressively and forced the Falcons back into their half. The pace of Jordan Martin, Joe Silver, and Jack Coppin in a new 4-3-3 setup was also worrying the Netherne defence enough for them to sit much deeper.

This gave the midfield trio of Sam Lloyd, Lewis Wood, and the impressive Simon Vakeva-Baird the space to find their passes. Working the ball centrally, Vakeva Baird flighted a pass over the heads of the Netherne central defence and beyond their right back. It fell invitingly for Martin who had made a darting run inside left but still had a lot to do. Cool as a cucumber he lofted the ball on the bounce over the keeper to halve the deficit.

Ten minutes later Coppin delivered a similar deep and lofted ball into the same rampaging path of Martin. The bounce this time was much higher and harder to control, particularly with the Netherne keeper charging down his throat, but once again Martin delivered the goods and levelled the game at 2-2.

An air of real togetherness and confidence now ran through the Brockham team and before long their third was in the net. Another ball from central midfield was this time played through the middle early. Silver was flagged off-side prematurely as the ball fell to Martin. His follow on pass however brought Silver into play and despite his good finish, which Martin was claiming as he crossed the line with the ball, and despite the referee indicating a goal, a pause in play to consult his linesman concluded in the goal being disallowed for Silver’s earlier infringement.

Brockham stuck to the task though and looked to have seen the game out for a good point. Deep into injury time though, their hearts were broken. The Badgers conceded a corner, their manager asked to make a substitution. The official waved it away explaining that as soon as the ball was cleared the game was over anyway. The ball swung in and was cleared by a Brockham defender for another corner. Everyone expected the whistle but another corner was allowed which was buried by the tall Netherne striker with his head. The Badgers took the centre kick and full time was blown. Heartbreaking, but a fabulous spectacle and a real demonstration of Brockham spirit.

Lad of the Match: Simon Vakeva-Baird

Report by Jason Rabbetts

East Grinstead Meads 7 - 1 Badgers U16B (Horsham and District D League)

2011-04-03T18:00:00.003+01:00

Brockham Badgers U16B Last Ever League Game

Badgers U16Bs rounded off their league season at East Grinstead in their last ever league game for the club.

For many of the lads the game represented the end of a 10 year stint with Brockham Badgers.

Their last season with Brockham has been a successful one, the season seeing the team win 4 and draw 4 of their league matches, with Ollie Curtis completing the season as the leagues second highest goalscorer, just 1 goal from winning the league golden boot.

The lads have shown good dedication this season, despite exam and other distractions, with midweek training being well attended, and competion for match day places keen between the 17 man squad.

With agreement from East Grinstead, already D league champions going into this game and without a defeat all season, Brockham included all 17 of their squad for their last game rather than the regulation 14 allowed by the league, East Grinstead doing the same.

For 30 minutes Brockham were on top playing good passing football, Curtis giving Badgers the lead on the half hour mark, good work from Dan Hoad putting Curtis through, his clinical shot making it 1-0.

However the good work was undone with a lapse in defensive concentration which saw the league champions score goals either side of half time as they used the long ball to good effect on a small pitch they knew well.

Brockham kept going second half, rotating the squad to see all players get equal game time, the result always being secondary as Badgers played out their final game time with flair to end their stint with the club.

Squad: Jack Whetnall, Will Sprange, Sam MacFarland, Dhilen Patel, James Stone, Stefan Issberner, Dex Bass, Josh Hook, David Atkinson, Dan Hoad, Josh Caldwell, Ben Wright, Luke Prior, Ollie Curtis, Elliott Austin, Max Ruff, Johnny Bryer

Report by Bryan Bletso

Dorking Saints U9A 2 - 5 Badgers U9 Barbarians (Horsham & District League)

2011-03-28T00:07:00.001+01:00

Barbarians Back to Winning Ways!

After a couple of tough matches, Saturday’s match at Dorking Saints was an opportunity for the Brockham Badgers U9 Barbarians to show that they still had the confidence in their ability to take the game to the opposition. They did not disappoint.

Defensively the Barbarians had the security to play an ambitious game given the return after absence of Jethro Burton and no. 1 ‘keeper Huw Morgan to join the ever-dependable William Glenn. Indeed it was after only two minutes that a Morgan drop-kick down Callum Holder who glided past two opponents and shot into the far corner from just outside the area. The early lead settled the Barbarians into a comfortable rhythm and they played some beautiful football, spreading the play wide and resisting the temptation to hold on to the ball rather than playing to a better placed teammate.

The Barbarians dominated play, and were rewarded eight minutes before half-time. Jethro Burton played a ball up to Arun Watkins – outstanding in midfield – the latter pushing the ball wide to Ben Austin. Austin eased past his marker and from 15 yards out unleashed a pile-driver which left the Saints’ ‘keeper no chance. Goal of the season for Austin and 2-0 at half-time to the Saints.

Little for the coaches to say in the break, other than “more of the same”. However, shortly after the restart the energy of the Dorking team merited the equaliser they procured from short-range. This served as a reminder to the Barbarians that matches can be lost as well as won, and they quickly restored the two goal margin when Austin passed for the bursting run of Tom Ambrose, who steered home his second of the season. 3-1 Barbarians.

More free-flowing football then ensued. The sterling Morgan, Burton and Glenn swept up at the back, and in midfield the usual lung-busting runs of Lily Turner and Ben Mackenzie, and lightning pace of Holder kept the Saints facing their own goal. With five minutes to go, and ball out of defence from Glenn initiated a Turner-Watkins combination which set up Holder for a smart crack home from seven yards. To their credit the 4-1 deficit did not cow the Saints, and they were duly rewarded moments later by a free-kick equaliser.

Time still for Callum Holder to round things off by sealing another hat-trick; the force of a shot from five yards taking the ball through the hands and legs of the Saints ‘keeper and into the net for an amazing twenty-seventh goal in fifteen matches.

A well-deserved 5-2 victory for the Barbarians, the product of quick-passing, boundless energy and superb teamwork.

Player of the Match: Arun Watkins.

Squad: Lily Turner (c), Tom Ambrose, Ben Austin, Jethro Burton, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Ben Mackenzie, Huw Morgan, Arun Watkins.

Report by Frank Holder

Badgers U11 (Sunday) 2 - 0 Carshalton (Surrey Youth League Premier Division)

2011-03-27T23:05:00.001+01:00

Massive win for U11s in bid for promotion to Surrey Youth League Premier Elite Division!

Brockham knew they were in for another tough match against Carshalton Athletic the league leaders. Carshalton started strongly but Brockhams defence were solid with Alex Watts and Will Convoy well organised and man of the match Jack Wisbey in determined form. After 20 minutes Brockham began to build up the pressure with a number of positive runs from Natanial King and Joseph Issberner. they were rewarded when Aidan Torpey struck a stunning 25 yarder into the top left hand corner. This really galvanised the Brockham team into action with the possession being kept in the Carshalton half.

The Badgers continued with the tempo into the second half and again were rewarded when Max Austin calmly rounded the keeper to give Brockham a 2-0 advantage. The team continued to remain in charge and the win puts them in a strong position to finish in the top two of the Surrey Youth League Premier Division. An excellent team performance against a very good Carshalton side.

Squad: Callum Agent, Max Austin, Finn Campbell, William Conroy, Jack Wisbey, Alex Wells, Aidan Torpey, Natanial King, Tom Phillips, Alex Watts, Joseph Issberner, Justin Hurst, Harry Fairley, Max Hill, Conor Gilmartin

Report by Nick Torpey

Tooting and Mitcham Utd Stripes Terriers 0 - 1 Badgers U15A (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-03-27T22:04:00.001+01:00

Brockham Badgers gave themselves a lifeline in their bid to avoid relegation from the Surrey Youth Premier Elite League with a gritty 1-0 win at Tooting and Mitcham on Sunday. Brockham now face two tough cup final-type games against high flying Guildford Academicals and Wycombe Wanderers HDC as the dog fight at the foot of the table reaches the business end of the season.

With the draw last game out against current title holders AFC Wimbledon, who are once more challenging for the title, Brockham at last seem to be fulfilling their unquestioned potential that saw them reach last year’s Surrey Cup Final.

Tooting are themselves involved in the relegation scrap and this inevitably created a tense game of few chances. But it was Brockham who looked tightest at the back, keeper Tom Wells rarely troubled, but when called into action showing safe hands. The defensive back three of captain Matthew Higgins, Will Mahoney and Will Bletso looked commanding all game, with Tooting mostly reduced to longer ranged efforts such was the defence’s control.

In midfield, Mike Richardson and Josh Brown excelled, getting stuck in and invariably winning the 50/50s as Brockham gradually gained the upper hand as the game went on, while in attack Eb Isiakpona and George Coffey tirelessly were running the line to give Tooting little respite. However, Tooting themselves knew that a win for them would go a long way to pull themselves a little way clear of the relegation spots, and as expected they gave Badgers no quarter throughout the match.

The first half saw few chances of note, both teams acquitting themselves well but unable to achieve any dominance or clear cut chances, Brockham winger Harry Ramsey proving the most likely to unlock the Tooting defence in the first half with several penetrating runs.

Goalless at half time was just about right, but as the second half progressed, it was Brockham who looked the more likely to snatch a vital win. The Tooting keeper had made a fantastic save from close range after 10 minutes of the restart to deny Mike Richardson, but with 20 minutes to go, he could do nothing to prevent George Coffey finding the net from close range, a darting run seeing Coffey evade his marker and latch on to a deep Matt Higgins free kick in the 6 yard box to slot the ball home.

Badgers then played out a big 20 minutes to see the game out, Harvey Mewis and Chris Brooks showing good composure while Frankie Routledge showed absolute commitment against his former side. Isiakpona thought he had grabbed a second for Badgers only to see a good effort ruled out correctly for offiside, but despite a large number of corners conceded by Brockham, Tooting never really created a clear cut chance leaving Brockham to claim a vital win.

Squad: Tom Wells, Will Mahoney, Matt Higgins (c), Will Bletso, Harry Ramsey, Chris Brooks, Josh Brown, Mike Richardson, Harvey Mewis, Eb Isiakpona, George Coffey, Frankie Routledge

Report by Bryan Bletso

Brockham Badgers U16A 2 - 1 Dorkinians (Horsham & District B League)

2011-03-27T12:43:00.001+01:00

Brockham U16As notched up a hard fought win over table topping local rivals Dorkinians on Saturday.

A game played at frenetic pace created few chances over the 80 minutes as both sides defences largely came out on top, all three goals coming from set pieces in a dramatic last 15 minutes of the match.

The Brockham hero was defender and man of the match Jack Hunt, Hunt scoring both Badgers goals to give the Brockham team a win they just about deserved as it was the home team that marginally had more possession and looked more dangerous in attack.

The first half for Brockham saw keeper Connor Mitchell and centre backs Tom Bletso and Hunt, and full back Henry Smith and Joe Parker in commanding form, while Stephen Kehl in attack was tireless in chasing down every ball and putting the away defence under pressure. Ollie Smith, Mike Carty and Charlie Holmes were winning a lot of the 50/50 balls in midfield, but even so Brockham were finding it difficult to carve out clear cut chances for Kehl and fellow striker Aaron Clark.

The second period carried on much like the first, Joe Parker adding commitment to the midfield and Henry Hill and Ollie Legg proving more influential as the game wore on.
The game sparked into life with 15 minutes to go. A corner was won, Legg floating in a delightful corner which Hunt headed home with style. Dorkinians, who really needed to win to keep control of their title bid, threw men forward, Will Bletso coming into his own to make some telling challenges as the clock ticked down. But with 5 minutes to go, Dorkinians themselves won a corner, the ball headed home by Seth Clanaghan to spark some joyous celebrations in the Dorkinians camp.

However there was to be a final twist in the tail. With 2 minutes to go, Badgers won a free kick wide on the Dorkininians right. Holmes swung in a finely weighted ball into the away penalty area, and from 2 yards out Hunt lashed the ball home to spark Badgers own celebrations and win the game

Scoop Lad of the Match: Jack Hunt

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Joe Parker, Henry Smith, Tom Bletso (c), Jack Hunt, Ollie Smith, Charlie Holmes, Henry Hill, Will Bletso, Aaron Clark. Stephen Kehl, Mike Carty, Ollie Legg

Report by Bryan Bletso

Bookham Colts 1 - 5 Badgers U9A (Epsom & Ewell League Premier Division)

2011-03-22T09:14:00.002Z

Both Brockham and Bookham needed 3 points from this game to stave off the threat of relegation. The game kicked off with Brockham playing downhill, but for 15 minutes the game didn’t get going as the ball kept running away from Brockham before they could get it under control. The stalemate was broken just before half time through Owen Knowles making a terrific run down the right and finishing superbly.

In the second half Brockham were playing uphill but that seemed to enable them to get the ball under control and they started to press Bookham. Jos Hunt, centre forward for Brockham, lost the Bookham defence and shot from distance giving the Bookham keeper no chance. Just as Brockham thought they had the game under control Bookham struck back with a well taken finish making it 1-2. Brockham continued to press and a break by Joe Rabbetts led to the cross that Jos Hunt finished. Another great strike by Jos Hunt gave him his hat-trick and Brockham a 4-1 lead. In the last few minutes Ed Russ delivered a corner into the box where Joe Rabbetts rose like a salmon to make it 5 for Brockham. A great team performance by Brockham with solid performances all round that may well have been enough to keep them in the Premier Division for another season.

Man of the Match: Jos Hunt

Report by Rick Russ

Steyning Strikers 1 - 4 Badgers U12A (Horsham & District B League)

2011-03-21T22:23:00.001Z

Brockham U12A Clinch Promotion

Brockham U12A confirmed their promotion to H&D A League with a convincing 4-1 win over Steyning at Lancing College.

In anticipation of the early start Coach Teague had recommended everyone have pasta for tea and an early night.

It may have worked for the boys but after a few pints of London Pride and a late night watching Comic Relief the only Steyning I was interested in was Steyning Bed!

Heads were cleared as the frosty morn gave way to clear blue skies during the long drive to Steyning – I have been on holiday nearer than that – and in the distance Lancing College Chapel glinted like Gondor in the brilliant sunshine. We walked in awe of the fabulous cricket pitches and tennis courts and half expected a Quidditch Team to fly past us in pursuit of the elusive Golden Snitch…

But, as Stewart Hall would say, onto the game…

Badgers suffered an pre-match setback as midfield dynamo Joe Teague was ruled out with a neck injury. Ollie Turner dropped back into midfield with Will Thomas coming in as striker.

Badgers settled their supporters’ nerves with a very early goal – Will Thomas running onto a George Warne though ball for a clinical finish into the far corner. Steyning worked hard to stop Brockham taking charge but after 20 minutes Kemal Dogansoy unpicked their defence with a lovely turn and pass for Will Thomas to latch onto for the same result. More chances came for the Badgers but it was Steyning who scored next – their free kick was deflected just wide for a corner, which Brockham had 5 chances to clear, before it fell to Daniel Boyle who found the back of the net from the edge of the box to make it 2-1 at the interval.

The second half wallowed in a period of kick and rush but Warne was beginning to boss the midfield - setting up Thomas one-on-one with the keeper who blocked bravely and did well again minutes later to deflect another Thomas shot onto the post with his legs. Warne went close with an overhead kick, headed wide from a corner then rattled the crossbar with a trademark thunderbolt before linking up again with Thomas who rifled home Brockham’s third for an impressive hattrick.

Harry Wickens, who had shown great touch and movement throughout, fought well to win a challenge in right midfield and put a lovely ball down the right wing for man-of the match Will Thomas, whose cross was swept home at the far post by Wilbur Tiley to make the final score 4-1.

Squad: Kemal Dogansoy, Daniel Killick, Dominic Lane, Sam Potts, Wilbur Tiley, Will Thomas, Ollie Turner, Jacob Purcell, Jacob Vaughan, George Warne, Oakley Wheeler, Harry Wickens

Report by Ian Thomas

Broadbridge Heath U9A 1 - 0 Badgers U9 Barbarians (Horsham & District League)

2011-03-21T02:07:00.001Z

Badgers Never Let Go!

A warm spring morning and a decent pitch made the depths of winter seem a lifetime ago as the Brockham Badgers U9 Barbarians lined up against the division’s strongest team, having been soundly beaten 5-1 in the home fixture last month.

The team took to the pitch determined to give a better account of themselves, and set about their opposition with guts, energy and no little style. The midfield of Tom Ambrose, Lily Turner and Arun Watkins worked hard to compete and to defend through attack by maximising their use of space and playing some decent balls forward to striker Callum Holder. However on a small pitch, and against very capable defenders, it was difficult to create clear goal-scoring opportunities in the limited space. Defensively the team worked well as a unit, and for the first third of the game, when Broadbridge did manage to break through hard-working full-backs William Glenn and Ben Mackenzie ‘keeper Ben Austin dealt well with the threat, displaying confidence and decisiveness.

Given the diligence and determination the Barbarians had put in to meet all that Broadbridge could throw at them, they could consider themselves somewhat unlucky to go a goal down five minutes before half-time, when a cross from deep on the left evaded the defence and fell to the Broadbridge striker who glance the ball into the right-hand corner of the net.

In the second-half the Barbarians continued to fight for every ball. Arun Watkins was superb in midfield, providing an effective link between defence and attack, and along with Turner and Ambrose proved ready to supplement the defence whenever necessary. Going forward some half-chances arose, and on another day a fine run and cross from Holder would not have narrowly missed the outstretched leg of Turner. The final whistle brought to an end a game in which the Barbarians had given everything, fully deserving the accolade received from the opposition manger who was fulsome in his praise of a performance which represented a massive improvement on the home fixture.

Players of the Match: Ben Austin and Arun Watkins.

Squad: Lily Turner (c), Tom Ambrose, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Ben Mackenzie, Arun Watkins.

Report by Frank Holder

Badgers U11A 3 - 4 Hook U11 4 (aet) (Surrey FA Youth Cup SF)

2011-03-14T15:01:00.001Z

The Badgers were 10 seconds away from a first Brockham appearance in the Surrey Youth Cup final, however, a last ditch direct free kick found the net to allow Hook to take the match to extra time and progress to the final with a 4 – 3 win.

Having lost in the League semi final to the same team a few weeks earlier the Badgers knew it would be a tough ask. They were clearly hoping that playing at home on a wider pitch would be to their advantage. The tough ask got harder as they lost their captain, Will Conroy, to a boot in the head after just 10 minutes.

Having gone two goals behind in the first half, with Hook having most of the play, the second half was another story. Going down the hill Brockham persistently pressed the Hook defence and were rewarded with a brilliant goal by Joseph Issberner, who charged up the left hand side, rounded several defenders before blasting the ball into the roof of the net.

This really galvanised the Brockham team who were rewarded with two further goals to go 3 – 2 up with under a minute to go. Unfortunately, throwing everything forwards, the Hook danger man up front burst through to the edge of the area where he was taken down. Hearts were broken as the free kick sailed high into the rook of the net to force extra time.

The Badgers found it difficult to reproduce their second half pressure as Hook fought to preserve their unbeaten record. Another surging attack earned Hook another free kick on the edge of the area. The Badgerss dreams were shattered as it again beat the keeper to give Hook the victory. The Badgers had just lost to the strongest unbeaten side in the Premier Elite Division. It was by the narrowest of margins and will undoubtedly give them confidence for their next encounters with Premier Elite opposition.

Squad: Callum Agent, Max Austin, Finn Campbell, William Conroy, Jack Wisbey, Thomas Hemming, Alex Wells, Aidan Torpey, Natanial King, Tom Phillips, Alex Watts, Joseph Issberner, Justin Hurst, Harry Fairley, Callum Glenn

Report by Chris Hurst

Badgers U14A 0 - 1 Wandgas Youth (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-03-13T19:22:00.001Z

Their progress continues but the points are still in short supply. Brockham Badgers U14A put on a robust performance against the Wandsworth outfit and a draw would have been a fairer reflection of the game. Brockham had numerous opportunities to score but failed to finish any of them off. Wandgas were limited to two or three good chances and made it count with one which ended up being enough.

It’s a measure of the Badgers’ improvement that they were far from embarrassed and unlike in early stages of the season when they would have been bullied, bossed, and off the pace, if anything they looked like the team with the edge and the composure.

The game was very open and with a three man front line full of power and pace the black and whites fancied their chances. Their width and speed on the break was worrying the Gas back line and on several occasions Jordan Martin and Joe Silver were able to break the lines and drive at goal. Good defending however thwarted them at every attempt.

Wandgas were seeking to exploit pace on the flanks as well and when a goal kick reached their right winger he drilled a ball down the line for their forward to run onto. Two touches took him inside and past his marker and with his third he met the ball sweetly with his laces and leathered a dipping shot on the run over James Rabbetts in the Brockham goal.

An enforced change at half time saw Jack Coppin pushed up into left midfield whilst captain Simon Vakeva-Baird dropped into the centre of defence. Both excelled in their changed positions. Vakeva-Baird looked composed and in total control, thwarting through balls and advancing forward to link up play well. Coppin was terrorising their right back and put two excellent crosses into dangerous areas, each of which was hastily hacked away to safety.

The Gas went very close on one occasion and if weren’t for a reaction save from Rabbetts their lead could have been doubled. A lofted cross from the right was met with a powerful header from their number eight which came back off the post to his feet for a second attempt. His fierce shot was goal bound but Rabbetts got a foot to it and it rebounded once again off the upright but this time to safety.

Brockham continued to put pressure onto the Wandgas back line and forced several corners but despite each being well attacked the opposition keeper was well positioned to collect. Martin had three promising runs snuffed out by some excellent defensive pressure and try as they might nothing was rolling for the Big Field boys.

At the final whistle it was a disappointment that they got nothing from the game but once again they competed and on another day it could have been a different story.

Lad of the Match: Simon Vakeva-Baird

Report by Jason Rabbetts

Badgers U15A 1 - 1 AFC Wimbledon (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-03-13T16:20:00.002Z

Brockham Badgers U15A produced their best display of the season to deservedly draw against the current league title holders AFC Wimbledon.

Badgers were boosted by the debut of striker Eb Isiakpona, the ex AFC Wimbledon player doing very well in his first game for the team, holding the ball up well in his sole striker role, and constantly proving a thorn in the side of his former team mates.

The draw was built on a very solid performance from the Brockham defence, Will Bletso and fellow centre back Matt Higgins again faultless at the back, winning countless crucial tackles. In the middle of the pitch, Josh Brown was a real midfielld dynamo, while Mike Richardson was back to his commanding self. Out wide, Harry Ramsey and Jack Wylie looked comfortable, while keeper Tom Wells commanded his area well as Badgers kept the dangerous Wimbledon team largely at bay.

The first half saw Badgers roll up their sleeves and match Wimbledon in all areas, only once did Badgers defence's concentration break, a Wimbledon striker squirming through several tackles which forced the striker wide, Wells blocking well at his near post.

As the first half neared its end, it was Brockham who gained the upper hand, twice going close from corners.

All square at the interval, and Brockham came out in the second half still battling away, with neither side creating any clear cut chances. The only time Wimbledon were able to break free, 20 minutes into the half, AFC showed their quality by snatching the lead, a cross from the AFC right being headed home.

It was rough luck on Brockham, in a season where the squad have not had the rub of the green, but to their credit, Brockham kept going. Subs Alex Nicholson, Frankie Routledge and Liam Ratcliffe injected fresh legs into the team, and with 12 minutes to go, Brockham got their reward, a corner seeing the ball fall loose in the penalty area, Will Mahoney reacting the quickest to power the ball home.

A save by Wells from a free kick kept Badgers ahead, and Brockham had several half chances of their own, but a draw was a fair result.

This was the first point Brockham have taken from AFC Wimbledon in the three years the two sides have played each other, and perhaps the game will give the side the boost to secure some much needed wins in their remaining games of the season.

Report by Bryan Bletso

Copthorne 1 - 2 Badgers U16A (Horsham and District B League)

2011-03-12T18:51:00.002Z

Brockham U16s just had enough to overcome bottom club Copthorne on Saturday in a sluggish performance throughout the team. The win keeps Badgers in 2^nd spot but 5 points behind leaders Dorkinians with only 2 games to go.

The game had started well for Brockham as Aaron Clark found Stephen Kehl with a through ball after just 2 minutes, Kehl’s shot just having enough power to steer the ball past the advancing keeper. That should have been the signal for Badgers to push on and secure a comfortable win, the home side without a win this season, but for some reason the expected onslaught never came. Indeed a quick break from Copthorne after 20 minutes caught Badgers short at the back, keeper Connor Mitchell doing well to push the initial shot away , but the Copthorne attack being quickest to the ball to slot the ball into an empty net for 1-1..

Copthorne were worth their equal status in the game at that point, and Badgers rather fortuitously retook the lead with what turned out to be the winner 5 minutes before the interval, Mike Carty’s long range shot bobbling just in front of the keeper, the ball rebounding off the keeper’s chest for Henry Hill to alertly push the ball across the box for Ollie Smith to score unmarked in the 6 yard box.

Brockham were slightly better in the second half and had several half chances to extend their lead, lad of the match Stephen Kehl doing well to constantly be a thorn in the side of the opposition’s defence, but the third Brockham goal would not come, and Copthorne sensed a surprise result. The final 5 minutes were tense for Brockham as Copthorne put pressure on the Brockham goal, but William Bletso made several well timed last ditch tackles to keep his team ahead, Brockham seeing the game out to claim the three points.

Scoop Lad of the Match: Stephen Kehl

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Henry Smith, Joe Parker, Tom Bletso (c), Jack Hunt, Mike Carty, Ollie Smith, Will Bletso, Henry Hill, Aaron Clark, Stephen Kehl, Ollie Legg

Report by Bryan Bletso

Dorking U18s 1 - 3 Redhill (Southern Youth League, Southern Section)

2011-03-09T09:27:00.001Z

Dorking U18s hosted Redhill U18s on Monday night, just 5 days after the corresponding fixture had resulted in a 2-2 draw at Kiln Brown. Dorking had the chance to move into the top 3 with a win, but another slow start gave the team just too much to do, and although Dorking bossed the second period, the team had just given themselves too much to do to get anything from the game.

Manager Simon Coffey gave a debut to Brockham Badgers U16 keeper Connor Mitchell, Mitchell doing well in the step up to the higher level despite the defeat. Mitchell was unable to do anything about the sluggish Dorking start though, and a very poor team effort in the first period saw Doring 3-0 down at half time and with a mountain to climb.

A suitable half time team talk produced an instant response from the side, with Harry Lynn once more impressive at centre back, and Dorking came out a different team. A Chris Thurgood goal made it 3-1 and really Dorking should have added to their tally as they created a series of chances which went begging, but Redhill held on to deny Dorking the comeback perhaps their second half display deserved.

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Ryan Butler, Nathan Crosbie, Harry Lynn, Ashley Smith, James Baker, Tom Coffey, Darryl Jeeves, Josh Clark, Mitchell Ward, Ryan Stewart
Subs: Jack Murrell, Chris Thurgood, Lewis Armstrong, Henry Warne

Report by Bryan Bletso

Worcester Park Colts 3 - 5 Badgers U9A (Epsom & Ewell League Premier Division)

2011-03-07T09:23:00.002Z

This match was a crucial bottom of the table clash with both sides requiring 3 points to move closer to safety.

The game kicked off and there was some excellent passing football by both teams with the play switching from end to end. Brockham won a free kick just inside the opposition half and Ed Russ struck a marvelous shot which dipped under the bar to give Brockham the lead.

Worcester Park started playing some flowing football, whilst Brockham seemed to lose their concentration and they were soon punished by a brace of Worcester Park goals. Some excellent goal keeping by Will Timmons kept Brockham in the game and, just before half time, a long throw delivered into the Worcester Park penalty area fell to Jos Hunt who finished well to make it 2-2 at half time.

Brockham Manager, Jason Rabbetts, brought on Archie Routleff and Matthew Chapman for the second half and made some positional changes which seemed to have a positive impact from the kickoff. Brockham started to dominate the game and George Wryde sprinted down the left, delivering a perfect cross for Joe Rabbetts to finish and give the away side the advantage.

A further 2 goals by Ed Russ gave him a hat-trick and capped a really strong performance. Brockham conceded a soft goal a minute from full time but it was too little too late for Worcester Park and Brockham came away with all 3 points.

Man of the Match: Ed Russ

Report by Rick Russ

Badgers U14A 0 - 3 Spelthorne Sports (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-03-06T19:46:00.002Z

Brockham Badgers U14A lost 3-0 to Spelthorne Sports this weekend but can be pleased with the general progress they have made in the second half of the season.

The Badgers industry and inter-play matched their opposition and for spells they enjoyed the larger share of possession. Unfortunately it was goal scoring opportunities that were lacking this week. Whilst well organised and looking far more solid than earlier stages of the season, the black and whites struggled to create any real threat on goal.

In all honesty Spelthorne were not doing particularly better but when chances came they put them away. James Rabbetts in the Brockham goal had two outstanding saves at full stretch for the cameras but the three goals from Spelthorne were unstoppable and the only other chances they had.

Luc Jhugroo had an outstanding game in the centre of defence – his positioning and decision making in a different class. Justin Tarrant worked tirelessly and Simon Vakeva-Baird again continued to impress on the left. Brockham can be pleased that they no longer look out of their depth. Yes they go into most of their matches this season as underdogs but now the opposition have to work very much harder to break them down.

Lad of the Match: Luc Jhugroo

Report by Jason Rabbetts

Cranleigh 1 - 5 Badgers U16A 5 (Horsham and District B League); Badgers U16B 3 - 1Horsham Tigers (Horsham and District D League)

2011-03-05T13:55:00.001Z

Brockham U16A secured a good away win at Cranleigh maintaining for now their 2^nd place in the division, albeit having played more games than the clubs around them in the table.

It was a perfect start for Brockham, Aaron Clark latching on to a through ball to slot the ball home in the 2^nd minute. But Cranleigh came back into the game, and slack marking from a corner gave the home side what was a deserved equaliser 20 minutes into the game. Brockham though stepped up the tempo, and Clark again showed quick reactions to latch on to a loose ball in the box to make it 2-1 before good work from Will Bletso down the Cranliegh left saw him deliver a ball into the box which was coolly side footed home by Henry Hill.

Brockham looked more assured at the back in the second period, with lad of the match Henry Smith workmanlike at left back and Connor Mitchell commanding in goal, and Brockham were able to withstand the pressure Cranleigh tried to exert in the second half. Brockham were also breaking quickly, Stephen Kehl forging a good attacking partnership with Clark while Mike Carty and Joe Parker were using the ball to good effect in midfield. And when Clark grabbed his hattrick with 15 minutes to go, Brockham really were safe, the game definitely sealed in the final minutes with the best goal of the game seeing Charlie Holmes deliver a delightful ball into the box for Clark to meet on the half volley and make it 5-1

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Joe Parker, Henry Smith, Tom Bletso (c), Jack Hunt, Charlie Holmes, Mike Carty, Will Bletso, Ollie Legg, Henry Hill, Stephen Kehl, Aaron Clark

Meanwhile the U16Bs pulled off their best result of the season with a 3-1 home victory over 2^nd placed Horsham Tigers to move into 3^rd spot in their league. Lad of the match and hat-trick hero was Dan Hoad whose three goals gave the side a great win.

Report by Bryan Bletso

Redhill 2 - 2 Dorking U18s (Southern Youth League Southern Section)

2011-03-04T11:33:00.004Z

Dorking FC U18s (the youth team for Badgers' affiliated senior club) moved up to 4th in the Southern Youth League Southern section with a draw on Thursday night at Redhill's Kiln Brow ground. With games in hand on most of the team's above Dorking in the league, manager Simon Coffey is hopeful his side can push into the top 3 spots in the league in coming weeks as the side have a lot of games to play before the end of the season due to previous postponements.

On a difficult surface, Dorking started slowly and defended poorly enabling Redhill to take a 2 goal lead into the interval. However a tactical change saw Thomas Coffey moved from centre back to the heart of midfield, and with the team seeing more of the ball, and Harry Lynn playing superbly at centre back, Dorking started to dominate.

Dorking pulled it back to 2-1 when Josh Clarke scored from a corner. Dorking then applied a fair bit of pressure, and got their reward when substitute Mitchell Ward used his pace to good effect to force a penalty with 5 minutes to go. Captain Chris Thurgood took responsibility for the spot kick to score and equalise for the team, both sides having chances to win the match in the final stages, but a draw probably being the right result.

Dorking have an immediate chance to go one better against Redhill U18s when Redhill visit Meadowbank on Monday for the home league game, kick off 7.45pm.

Squad: Henry Warne, Ryan Butler, ,Ashley Smith, Harry Lynn, Tom Coffey, James Baker, Stephen Batchelor, Daryl Jeeves, Josh Clarke, Chris Thurgood, Ryan Stewart
Subs :Jack Murrell, Nathan Crosbie, Mitchel Ward, Conner Mitchell

Report by Bryan Bletso

Badgers U14A 3 - 2 Leatherhead Youth (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-02-27T18:16:00.002Z

All the effort paid off this weekend when Brockham at last broke their duck in the Surrey Youth League with a win against local rivals Leatherhead. The Badgers deserved the victory on balance but certainly put their coaching team and parents through the emotional mangle to achieve it.

Brockham more than matched Leatherhead through the early stages of the game. Sam Lloyd and Justin Tarrant were breaking up play in midfield, winning the loose balls and feeding the creative Lewis Wood, and playing balls into wide areas to good effect. It was from the right channel that Joe Silver opened his account with a stunning solo effort. At speed he drove to the bye-line riding three challenges en route. Just when everyone thought he’d gone too far he banged a cannon of a shot from a tight angle into the top corner.

Leatherhead’s frustration in midfield was evident but despite having little time on the ball to play there were signs of good link up play from their two front men that on two occasions tested James Rabbetts in the black and white’s goal. Rabbetts was on form today though, coming off his line well, communicating to good effect, and gathering balls to quell danger when needed.

Brockham expected a response from Leatherhead in the second half and so it came. A sustained period of pressure for fifteen minutes tested the Badgers but the back line and keeper met the challenge.

Brockham wrestled back the advantage and went close with two fine efforts from Martin. The first a fierce dipping shot that the Leatherhead keeper saved superbly at full stretch, the second a free kick that almost crept inside the far post unchallenged. Then Brockham grabbed their second. A ball from the left ran across the area where Martin picked it up wide on the right, he jinked past a challenge and passed the ball across goal for Silver to tap in for his brace.

The game ebbed and flowed. Both teams had goals disallowed for offside and some hairy moments in the Brockham area saw the ball bobble, bounce, and ping around on three occasions – but for the assured hands of Rabbetts, the Tanners could have been level.

Leatherhead got their rewards however soon after. Brockham switched off momentarily, allowing Leatherhead to press and run at goal. A tidy one-two between their forwards saw them nick a goal back. Everyone then thought the game had been levelled following a ball in from the Leatherhead left but the ball was adjudged to have breached the bye-line before the cross came in.

The Badgers then saw a second off-side decision cancel out a goal of their own when Silver, free on the left and running at pace, passed for Martin to stroke the ball past the keeper. This was followed by a barnstorming run at goal by Lloyd. With a simple touch left or right of the keeper he could have put Brockham out of sight but instead elected for power and blasted the ball over. Martin had an identical opportunity two minutes later but shot directly at the Tanners keeper. Almost immediately the Tanners responded with a goal to level the game five minutes from the end to send the opposition supporters into confident cheer and Brockham’s ruing their chances.

Silver had other plans though. He was on a hat-trick and when Alex Flint neatly played a ball between the Leatherhead full back and centre half Silver grabbed his chance. He shrugged off two challenges, put on the after burners and buried it. A terrific result and a glimmer, just a glimmer of hope.

Lads of the Match: James Rabbetts and Joe Silver

Report by Jason Rabbetts

Chidingfold United 0 - 12 Badgers U10 A (South Surrey League)

2011-02-24T11:11:00.004Z

Rain hung in the air, the sky was grey but the football was good enough to warm the cockles…

Badgers were very, very lively at kick-off. Ezra Charles dispossessed his opponents and ran straight at the defenders before hitting a shot just wide. This was a taste of things to come. Ezra combined well with George to set up an early goal spree. Ezra had four before half-time and George had been instrumental in many of them. Ezra would return the favour for George and Brockham's answer to Dalglish and Rush was born.

The forwards applied a lot of pressure to the defence which had Chidingfold pinned back in their own half for long periods. This brought about more goals from Oliver Yeates and Morgan Hamilton. These two boys put in fantastic performances once again. They are exceptional boys. They can pass, dribble and tackle and have the engines needed to propel Brockham on to bigger and better things.

Morgan was felled in the box after an excellent run and as Ezra took the ball he had his legs taken away… That's strong three penalty shouts in their last three games. Luck is against the Badgers at the moment.

Half-Time: Chidingfold United 0 Brockham Badgers 8

With a comfortable cushion manager Simon Lees switched the boys round to experience different positions. Toby Evans was an absolute revelation in midfield. Joe Allen was stroking the ball around like Glen Hoddle at a "show and tell" session.

Henry Lucas's ability to read the game saw him intercept time after time in the first half. In the second he was taking on defenders from his midfield position, scoring goals and whipping balls into the box. It was a versatile performance

Adam "Full Power" Bower slammed home after taking the ball to the side of the keeper. It was a very nicely taken goal.

George Lees was a no-nonsense stopper, delivering quality balls out from the back. Ezra Charles kept goal and was quick to release the ball back into play.

The game ended with a high goal tally. Ezra: 4; Oliver Y: 2; Morgan: 2; George: 1; Adam: 1; Henry: 1; Toby: 1.

Full-Time: Chidingfold United 0 Brockham Badgers 12

Man of The Match: very close again but Henry Lucas gets the vote with his impersonation of Franz Beckenbauer (defence or midfield, this boy can do it all)

Squad:Adam Bower, Henry Lucas, Joe Allen, Oliver Yeates, Morgan Hamilton, Ezra Charles, George Lees, Toby Evans

Report by Jason Charles

Badgers U9 Barbarians 0 - 0 Cranleigh Casuals (Horsham & District Youth League)

2011-02-21T00:50:00.001Z

On a pitch heavy with a clay slurry generated by heavy overnight rain, Brockham Badgers U9 Barbarians were this week presented with the challenge of improving on a one-goal defeat in the away fixture against a strong Cranleigh team. Meeting this objective would require a return to pre-Christmas form, having been somewhat lethargic in the last two matches.

It seemed during the early stages of the match that the Barbarians still lacked vitality. Their efforts to play a quick passing game were – however - stymied by the conditions; mud clinging to ball and boot causing passes to go astray and runs to be mistimed. A blessing therefore, that in Tom Ambrose, Jethro Burton and William Glenn the team possesses players with the knack of being in the right place at the right time to defend the forward thrusts of a Cranleigh team which came to terms with the conditions much sooner than the black and whites. Time and again these three came to the rescue with an assertive tackle or simply by forcing an error by getting goal-side.

With perseverance and determination, the Barbarians gradually pushed Cranleigh back and by the halfway point in the first half had gained parity in terms of possession and threat. Ben Mackenzie seemed to skate on the surface of the mud down the right and with Arun Watkins on the left using his quick-feet to maximum effect these two gave the Cranleigh full-backs plenty of cause to be cautious about getting forward. The pitch did not, however, cooperate by allowing the kind of through-ball on which striker Callum Holder thrives, and clear goal-scoring opportunities were few and far-between.

The second half saw a continuation of a very evenly-matched midfield contest. Captain Lily Turner – surely the best female player in this league – was immense in providing cover for players pulled out of position and making well-timed tackles followed by effective distribution of the ball. Chances began to come, and the Cranleigh keeper made good saves from the likes of Watkins and Holder, the latter also thwarted by the post following a run and shot. In the Barbarians’ goal Huw Morgan – following his absence last week – showed his worth by executing two or three excellent saves.

The final whistle came as a relief to both sides as late chances at both ends threatened to unbalance the result in a manner which would not have been fair on either team after a game of endeavour, commitment and much excitement.

Players of the Match: Lily Turner and Tom Ambrose.

Squad: Lily Turner (c), Tom Ambrose, Ben Austin, Jethro Burton, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Ben Mackenzie, Huw Morgan, Arun Watkins.

Report by Frank Holder

Bedfont Eagles 5 - 0 Badgers U14A (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-02-20T18:24:00.001Z

Make no mistake; this Bedfont team are a very good side. New to the Surrey Youth League they came with a threatening record of 260 goals in a single season from the Middlesex League last year, and this weekend Brockham got a taste of their clinical finishing.

Bedfont play with some style and fluidity and their comfort on the ball is equally matched by their organisation when out of possession. An impressive give and go style stretched the Badgers from the first minute and before the black and whites had time to switch into gear the Eagles had scored, their striker putting the ball through the eye of a needle to place it just inside Brockham’s far post despite the narrow angle.

Five minutes later Bedfont doubled their lead. Quick interplay in midfield pulled Brockham’s defence one way and then the other. The Eagles front man was switching from one marker’s shoulder to another waiting to strike. A clever through ball put him in and he struck a sharp shot which was parried by James Rabbetts in goal but finished on the rebound.

The Brockham boys now decided to swap their pyjamas for their football kits and started to press play better and get back into the game. Jordan Martin was away once or twice on the right and Simon Vakeva-Baird was starting to find space on the left. The midfield trio of Lewis Wood, Sam Lloyd, and Oscar Cremmen showed a glimmer of last week’s heart but were getting caught too flat pushing forward for a reply, leaving space behind for any counter to hit the Badgers backline without challenge. Two balls from this space between the lines put the Eagles number 15 in on goal and with deadly precision he finished both - four goals down at half-time and a mountain to climb for Brockham.

The second half was a totally different affair. Brockham had the best possession and the best chances. They played with confidence and industry and the breaks started to come. Wood, Lloyd and Cremmen were first to every ball and Jack Coppin who had moved wide left delivered two dangerous balls that Joe Silver and Jordan Martin came close to making count.

The difference in finishing between the two teams was however very evident. Martin shot wide, Coppin over the bar, Silver was blocked and Brockham even had a penalty saved. Inevitably they were made to pay. Oli Gout, Justin Tarrant, George Gomes, Vakeva-Baird, and Luc Jhugroo had performed superbly in defence for the second period and were well organised when a counter from Bedfont ran at them. Jhugroo cleared well with his head from a cross but an Eagle collected and was not closed quickly enough on the right. A quick look up and he placed it top right.

Brockham can take some comfort from their second half performance. If only they’d turned up in the first.

Lad of the Match: Sam Lloyd

Report by Jason Rabbetts

Albury Saxons 0 - 9 Badgers U10 A (South Surrey Boys League)

2011-02-18T10:03:00.004Z

With traffic hampering some of the Badger's faithful from arriving on time we were 2-0 up before I got chance to take my place in the press box. The news was that Morgan Hamilton and Oliver Quigley had been first to get their names on the score-sheet.

Albury were no pushovers though. Morgan seemed to lying quite deep, breaking up attacks and then beginning the raids on the Albury goal. He soon scored his second with a shot that smashed into the roof of the net. Box-to-box Morgan is as good as you'll see.

Just before half-time Ezra dispossessed a defender and as the ball squirmed free Oliver Yeates applied the finishing touch.

Half-Time: Albury Saxons 0 Brockham Badgers 4

The second half started well as Brockham played their football. Henry Lucas was a huge influence on the game. His impeccable distribution set off Morgan and Oliver Yeates for their runs from midfield. Oliver and Morgan were releasing the ball to the wings and the whole side were playing as a team.

Adam Bower showed a new side to his game. Yes, he still found time for his trademark swivel and smash at the far post and we know the goals make the headlines but… Adam was strong in the middle of the field. He broke up Albury attacks and never stopped running down opponents when he didn't have the ball. Adam also got his passes off quickly after taking his touch. The coaching is definitely paying off. Adam got two goals but is looking like a real team player.

Oliver Quigley was finding his passing range and setting up chances. Every game now we are seeing a little bit extra from him. It was another fine performance.

Ezra scored his trademark dribble from the left and drive into the goal. When he tried the same thing a few minutes later he ghosted past three defenders but was pulled down by the fourth. It was the second time in two weeks he didn't get the possible penalty.

George Lees found the going tough in the middle of the pitch but on the wings he was unstoppable. With the ball out in front of him, George showed pace and power. He drove past the defenders time and time and delivered some fantastic crosses into the box. One was so accurate that it hit Ezra on the head and went in. He didn't know much about it and I'm sure he'd agree George deserves the plaudits for the crosses he put in.

Morgan and Oliver continued to dominate. Joe Allen didn't put a foot wrong and saw one of his right foot drives fizz past the post. 'Radar' Allen was excellent throughout.

There was time for Oliver to get his second. The team-work between himself and Morgan, both in attack and defence, was very special.

Final Score: Albury Saxons 0 Brockham Badgers 9

Man of The Match: Oliver Yeates, a close call, but Oliver's passing was fantastic (Brockham's own Lionel Messi)

Squad: George Lees, Joe Allen, Henry Lucas, Oliver Quigley, Oliver Yeates, Morgan Hamilton, Adam Bower, Ezra Charles

Report by Jason Charles

Dorking U18 2 - 1 Leatherhead (Southern Youth League South Division)

2011-02-18T09:59:00.002Z

Dorking's U18 side made it a great night for the club with this exciting win over local rivals Leatherhead on Wednesday, the result coming on the same day as the first team won comprehensively at Croydon 4-1.

Dorking are affiliated to Brockham Badgers FC and Badgers are a feeder side for Dorking U18s who are managed by Brockham Badgers U15A manager, Simon Coffey, assisted by Gordon Walker, the Brockham Badgers Girls U16 manager and a previous manager of both the Dorking U18 side and Badgers boys side.

Dorking's U18s now sit in 4th place in the division, seven points behind league leaders Leatherhead, but with 4 games in hand, although to be fair Croydon Athletic look the team likely to power on and win the league as they have won all their games to date but only have played 6 league matches due to continued involvement in cup competitions.

The win was particularly sweet for Simon Coffey's team as they had suffered a rare heavy defeat to Leatherhead several weeks before when seemingly every shot Leatherhead hit sped into the net from distance giving the Dorking keeper no chance in what otherwise had been a fairly even game.

Yet again, this encounter proved a competitive, fairly even affair, this time Dorking shading the match to return to winning ways. Dorking had a good start, James Baker sweeping Chicks in front early on after man of the match and captain Harry Lynn had put Baker in on goal. Dorking spurned several chances in the next 15 minutes, and gradually Leatherhead came back into the game. Just before half time, Dorking keeper Henry Warne was adjudged somewhat harshly to have fouled a Leatherhead striker in the box, but Warne made immediate amends by pulling off a great save from the spot kick to keep Dorking in front.

Leatherhead deservedly equalised early in the second period, but with 15 minutes to go sub Mitchell Ward was involved in a good move which saw James Back play the ball on to Will Davis who fire the ball home and put Dorking U18s back in front. Both sides had chances to score in the final minutes, Lynn doing superbly well to keep Leatherhead's dangerous strikers in check, but neither side could add to the scoring leaving Chicks with revenge for their defeat several weeks ago in the away fixture.

Squad: Henry Warne, Marcus Legg, Ashley Smith, Harry Lynn (c), Ryan Butler, Lewis Armstrong (Will Davis), Tom Coffey, Jack Murrell, James Baker, Ryan Stewart (Mitchell Ward), Nathan Crosbie.
Unused subs: Connor Mitchell, Isaac Philpott

Report by Bryan Bletso

Badgers U14A 2 - 2 Ashford Town (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-02-14T14:57:00.002Z

As Mick McCarthy philosophically once said after a run of frustrating results “you lose some, you draw some”, and so it is proving to be for Brockham Badgers U14A when they again came away with only a point from a game they thoroughly deserved to win.

Brockham started superbly. Within one minute they were ahead when a corner from Jordan Martin was met with power and timing by Justin Tarrant to head home. They were seemingly in cruise control two minutes later when they grabbed their second. A cross from the left found Joe Silver running at goal. His first touch was an instinctive strike from just inside the 18 yard area and it volleyed off the top of his foot to double the lead.

For the remainder of the first half Brockham dominated. They played a high tempo pressing game that become frustrating for the visitors who were limited to only a single shot on goal which James Rabbetts coped with superbly, coming a long way off his line to close the angle and diffuse. There were even one or two opportunities for Brockham to take their third.

Ashford started the second half brighter and for ten minutes edged the possession advantage. There were signs of them coming back into the gain but Tarrant and Tom Hampshire were demonstrating a master class in defensive organisation and Alex Flint was linking up play well from an advanced position creating all sorts of problems for the Ashford defence who were drawn to him in the centre and being stretched when he released balls into Martin and Simon Vakeva-Baird on the flanks. It could easily have been a stale mate for the remainder of the game.

Three game changing calls, however, went against the black and whites. A jinking run down the Ashford left forced Tarrant to make a decision. His ball winning tackle was adjudged to have come through the player first and with his position just inside the area the referee awarded a penalty which was very well despatched by the Ashford captain.

Brockham were still brimming with confidence and shortly afterwards had the Ashford back line in a panic. A cross from Vakeva-Baird, who had been outstanding all game, was hit goalwards by Flint and a deflection off the keeper saw the ball rebound off the post. In the melee it was difficult to see who had the final strike that bellowed the net but the Brockham boys reeled away in celebration thinking they’d settled it only for the linesman to rule a no-goal for off-side. With an Ashford player on the line the Brockham forward must have been judged to have been between keeper and last defence when the ball first came in.

Minutes later, with renewed hunger and a feeling of lady luck on their side, Ashford pushed forward again. A lovely piece of trickery from Sam Kandalaft for Ashford turned his marker and fed the ball inside, his supporting player’s strike was disappointing and fell behind the line for Brockham to clear, but the clearance was poorly judged and fell to the feet of a poaching Ashford forward who hit it first time past Rabbetts to level the game.

The remaining ten minutes saw both sides go for broke and it was a very even game from then on with both managers relieved to hear the final whistle. After last week’s great comeback against Ashford it was Brockham’s turn to be on the receiving end of a fight back. The Badger boys can take great pride and belief from another excellent performance – something that will stand them in good stead for the rest of the season.

Lad of the Match: Simon Vakeva-Baird

Report by Jason Rabbetts

Badgers U15A 0 - 0 Hampton and Richmond Borough (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-02-14T07:06:00.002Z

Brockham finally earned their first point of 2011, and what a hard-earned point it was. Just two weeks ago Badgers had capitulated in the away fixture, going down 5-1. This time there was a collective determination to do better, and build on the promise shown in last week's performance against Wycombe Wanderers.

The defence was strengthened by, the appearance of Tom Wells in goal, who looked comfortable and made a couple of very decent saves, and new left-back Connor Baker, who had a very composed debut and was eager to push forward. Will Bletso built on recent strong performances and was just about impassable at centre back, with one tackle after another timed to perfection. In central midfield Mike Richardson was a pugnacious driving force from start to finish, while Chris Brooks and Harry Ramsey frightened the Hampton defence with their pace on many occasions.

The visitors probably shaded possession over the 80 minutes, and spent more time in and around the box, but Brockham had the most regrets by the end for a series of break-away chances in the second period. Most fell to Brooks, who turned on the turbo-chargers several times to win balls he shouldn't have got near, but on the day couldn't quite find the target with the final shot. On another day he would have bagged a hat-trick and his day will come again.

This was an excellent team effort on a miserably cold, wet day, a rare clean sheet and at least Badgers have rediscovered some points-winning form to carry into next week's derby with Leatherhead.

Squad: Tom Wells, Liam Ratcliffe, Matt Higgins (c), Will Bletso, Connor Baker, Will Mahoney, Josh Brown, Oli Winter, Mike Richardson, Harvey Mewis, Jack Wyllie, Harry Ramsey, Chris Brooks, Alex Nicholson, George Coffey, Frankie Routleffe

Report by Bryan Bletso

Frimley Green 0 - 4 Badgers U11 Sunday (Surrey Youth Cup QF)

2011-02-13T22:31:00.002Z

Brockham battled both the elements and a tough Frimley Green Youth team to come out firmly on top with a 4 – 0 win in the Surrey Youth Cup quarter finals. Driving rain and a heavy muddy pitch greeted the two teams for an early afternoon kick off. Brockham started off stronger, camping in the Frimley penalty area for the first 10 minutes. Frimley then had the better of the next period until a burst in from the left hand side saw Joseph Issberner cross to Max Austin. Austin smartly flicked the ball across to Nataniel King, allowing him to drive it past the keeper into the roof of the net for a 1 – 0 lead.

Issberner and King continued to threaten the Frimley defence with several charges resulting in shots either just wide or comfortably saved by the Frimley keeper. Issberner produced a another powerful burst from deep inside the Badgers half, just erring off-side as he attempted a neat one-two which could have resulted in a fabulous goal.

Jack Wisbey decided it was time for a defender to show the strikers how it is done as he surged up the right hand side and past several defenders before passing the ball into the back of the net for a 2 – 0 lead. Just before half time King delivered another troubling cross which found it's way into the net off the boot of a Frimley defender, desperately trying to steer the ball around the post.

The second half was a bruising affair with Aidan Torpey and Thomas Hemming needing to display strength of character in mid-field as they were on the receiving end of relentless assaults. Captain Will Conroy directed his defenders solidly, typically leading by example from the back.

The only goal in the second period was another excellent charge up the right hand side by man of the match Issberner, delivering a precision pass to Austin who launched the ball into the back of the net for a well deserved 4 – 0 victory.

The semi final will be against Hook Youth, to whom Brockham recently narrowly lost 2-1 in the Youth League semi final. They will need to show all the guts they displayed in this quarter final and add some additional flair if they are going to get their revenge.

Man of the match: Joseph Issberner

Report by Chris Hurst

Badgers U9 Barbarians 1- 5 Broadbridge Heath (Horsham & District League)

2011-02-13T21:34:00.002Z

Learnings From Defeat

Brockham Badgers Under 9 Barbarian's suffered their worst ever defeat at the hands of the quick off the mark Broadbridge Heath, going down an incredible 5-1 on the Big Field.

There must have been something in the Brockham water over night as despite having a near full team; individually they were all second to the ball in the first 10 minutes. This period was decisive, on the first two occasions that Broadbridge Heath had a chance to shoot, the ball ended in the back of the badger's net. Tom Ambrose seemed at times to be over-run in midfield, although the Badger's did start to compete and give him much better support as the game wore on. Callum Holder did provide some hope, snatching a goal after a strong dribble into the Broadbridge Heath's penalty box and slamming the ball home. However, it wasn't long before another chance fell to Broadbridge Heath on the break, and ultimately a third goal that left the home team with a mountain to climb in the second half.

In the second half, the team fought much better and had an early chance after a sweeping passing move in which Arun Watkins passed to Lily Turner, who shot first time, only for the Broadbridge Heath stopper to make a great save. A series of corners followed for Badgers, with Jethro Burton providing excellent service, but the Badgers were unable to get the ball over the line. William Glenn and Ben Austin were providing a much better defensive line and with Ben McKenzie harassing the Broadbridge defenders it seemed only a matter of time before the Badgers scored... alas Broadbridge Heath achieved two more late breakaway goals with a pair of excellent clinical finishes.

It is true that one learns more from defeat than from winning, which for sure is true in this case. Of course the Badger's did miss regular keeper Huw Morgan, but they have learnt that they must kick off every game with a high tempo attitude or suffer a similar fate in future games. What we can be sure of is that on the evidence of their resolve during the game; this Badger's outfit is willing to fight and will be determined not to make losing a habit.

Men of the Match: Tom Ambrose and Jethro Burton.

Squad: Lily Turner (Capt.), Tom Ambrose, Ben Austin, Jethro Burton, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Ben Mackenzie, Huw Morgan, Arun Watkins.

Report by Bobby Watkins

Badgers U16A 1 - 1Roffey Robins Athletic; North Holmwood Utd 5 - 5 Badgers U16B (Horsham and District League)

2011-02-13T16:52:00.003Z

Brockham Badgers U16As played out a competitive draw on Satursay against Roffey, failing to match the comfortable win Badgers had secured against the same opposition several weeks ago.

Badgers started on fire, Will Bletso going closest by almost scoring from distance after 3 minutes, while further shots rained in on the Roffey goal from Stephen Kehl, Aaron Clark, Henry Hill and Charlie Holmes. But the game was turned on its head after 15 minutes when Roffey broke well to score from a cross as Brockham's right hand sided players got caught short at the back.

The goal took the wind out of the Badgers sails, but even so Kehl went close to drawing level when put through twice one on one with the keeper. Roffey almost stole a 2-0 lead on the stroke of half time from a penalty, but Brockham keeper Connor Mitchell stood up well and saved the poweful spot kick.

Brockham started well in the second half and it was no real surprise when Joe parker equalised with 25 minutes to go. Brockham looked likely to go from strength to strength, but an injury to Jack Hunt seemed to upset the balance of the ream, and although Clark looked about to win the game for Brockham when he chipped the keeper outside the box only for the keeper to handle and save his team, a draw was a fair result come the end of the game.

Lad of the Match: Aaron Clark

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Joe Parker, Henry Smith, Tom Bletso, Jack Hunt, Charlie Holmes, Will Bletso, Henry Hill, Ollie Smith, Aaron Clark. Stephen Kehl, Michael Carty.

Meanwhle the U16Bs played out an entertaining 5-5 draw at local rivals Noth Holmwood United. Brockham raced into a 5-1 half time lead courtesy of a hattrick from Ollie Curtis and a brace from Dan Hoad, but a spirited fightback for the home side saw North Holmwood snatch a draw.

Lad of the Match: Dhilen Patel.

Report by Bryan Bletso

Badgers U10A 0 - 3 Albury Ospreys (South Surrey Boys League)

2011-02-11T11:25:00.002Z

Badgers versus Albury has been one of the fixtures of the season for many seasons. Saturday's game was another classic.

Both teams gave no quarter in a sizzling first-half.

Jack Duncan and Henry Lucas were like a bullet-proof shield. Jack's distribution and clearances were superb. Henry brought the ball out from the back with confidence and skill. It was always going to be a hard game for the defenders and Henry in particular was the victim of a number of rough challenges.

Even so, Albury were still fizzing shots at goal. A number of times we waited for the net to ripple only for George "The Cat" Lees to stun us all with his acrobatic saves. George made a number of top quality saves throughout the game.

Toby Evans is starting to remind us of Patrick Vieira. He's always in the right place, strong in the tackle, never gives up on chasing opponents and works hard for the team.

Morgan Hamilton was defending well. He's a real all-round star for the team and his work at the back drew lots of praise from the parents on the sidelines. The Badgers really needed him and Morgan put in another fine performance. His team play was excellent.

Eventually Ezra Charles' hard work started to bring about a few chances. He'd worked hard making runs down the left and put in a few crosses that caused problems. Late in the first-half Ezra had a chance. Under pressure from the defender he didn't make the contact he'd have liked. On another day he may have won the penalty.

Half-Time: Brockham Badgers 0 Albury Ospreys 0

The second-half saw a virtuoso performance by the super-gifted Oliver Yeates. He was like a will-o-the-wisp gliding away from challenges and set up chances for others. At times it was breathtaking. Standing next to the substituted Morgan and Ezra later on their admiration of Oliver could be in no doubt.

Oliver was amazing and should take great heart from his dazzling display.

Brockham really took a hold of the game in the second-half and looked the more likely to score. But then a free-kick was dispatched into the top corner and Albury took the lead. It was a fine strike and George almost tipped it over.

George would go on to make some of the best saves I've ever seen at this level. It was without doubt the best goalkeeping performance seen over the last 4 years by and keeper. One save where he dived to his right seemed to defy the laws of gravity. Later on he made a double-save that was stunning. George was brave and in control. He threw the ball out quickly and also kicked it from his hands when he needed to.

Oliver Quigley did well when he came on. He continued from the previous week showing a bite in the tackle and a real determination. Oliver Q is improving every week.

We're all fans of The Two Olivers.

Adam Bower put in a number of runs and tackled hard for the team. There wasn't much to be had up front by this time. Adam gave it everything though and we all know there are more goals to come from this little dynamo.

Albury followed up with two more late goals for a deserved if flattering win.

Full-Time: Brockham Badgers 0 Albury Ospreys 3

Man of The Match: George Lees an unforgettable display of goalkeeping (Gordon Banks, Lev Yashin, Dino Zoff, Sepp Maier, Bruce Grobelaar, Joe Hart…who are ya!)

Squad: George Lees, Jack Duncan, Henry Lucas, Toby Evans, Morgan Hamilton, Oliver Yeates, Oliver Quigley, Ezra Charles and Adam Bower

Report by Jason Charles

Badgers U9 Barbarians 3 - 3 Roffey Robins (Horsham & District League)

2011-02-08T22:02:00.001Z

Having run out convincing winners in the away match against Roffey Robins, the Barbarians came into the home fixture with reason to believe they should do well once more.

Complacency seemed not to be an issue as the Barbarians worked as hard as ever, however the Robins deserve great credit for a much more competitive performance than previously. The Robins rode a very early blow with fortitude. At the kick-off Arun Watkins played the ball to Callum Holder, who set off on a mazy run towards the Robins’ goal. As he was confronted with successive opponents, he ignored the pleadings of his coaches to lay the ball off and their ministrations turned to “good goal!” as he left his final challenger sprawling as he put the ball into the net. 1-0 Barbarians after 12 seconds.

Defensively the Barbarians were comfortable at this stage, with Tom Ambrose and William Glenn providing effective cover for goalkeeper Huw Morgan, and feeding the midfield of Bens Mackenzie and Austin with some ease when called upon to do so. After ten minutes the Badgers went 2-0 up with a second goal from Callum Holder, dispatched from a narrow angle following creative work from Jethro Burton.

Much credit to the Robins for their performance from this point on. They battled back hard, and earned themselves the right to be optimistic for the second half by pegging back the deficit to 2-1 at half-time. Shortly after the break the Barbarians paid the penalty for leaving the centre of midfield open to a Robins advance and conceded the equaliser.

The Barbarians is, however, a team which creates many opportunities to score. They gained the lead once more after the penetration of Ben Mackenzie, the tough tackling of Tom Ambrose and the diversionary running of the excellent Lily Turner created the opportunity for Callum Holder to complete another hat-trick from four yards out. Further scoring opportunities came, but were not taken and the Robins sealed a deserved share of the points with a late equaliser, the Barbarians’ own reward preserved with two late saves including a magnificent tip over the bar from ‘keeper Huw Morgan.

Player of the Match: Lily Turner.

Squad: Lily Turner (c), Tom Ambrose, Ben Austin, Jethro Burton, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Ben Mackenzie, Huw Morgan, Arun Watkins.

Report by Frank Holder

Badgers U15A 1 - 3 Wycombe Wanderers (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-02-07T07:12:00.001Z

Despite ultimately going down to a 3-1 defeat at home to strong league title contenders Wycombe Wanderers, Brockham Badgers U15A played their best game of 2011 and possibly their best of the season,

Determined to reverse a losing streak which has seen them concede 16 goals in 4 games since Christmas with only 4 scored, Badgers matched their opponents for long periods with a battling display which saw them come within 10 minutes of a deserved draw

Two late goals including a last-ditch penalty put paid to this but, playing into the wind on a very blustery Big Field, Brockham had gone in a goal up at the break, The pressure they exerted on their opponents paid off just before half time when a Wycombe defender saw his over-hit back pass from almost the half-way line beat the advancing keeper and find the net for a spectacular own goal. The visitors made amends 15 minutes into the second half with a well-taken equaliser, but thereafter Brockham fought manfully to retain parity.

At the back, skipper Matt Higgins and partner William Bletso were dominant throughout, particularly in the aerial battles, while Jack Wyllie put in a determined showing on the right flank and Harry Ramsey ran at pace at the Wanderers defence at every opportunity. Alex Nicholson again showed what a competent stand-in keeper he is, and in central midfield Mike Richardson and Oli Winter matched their opposite numbers with their most composed showing for quite some time. With eight games remaining, Badgers can take a lot of heart from this performance and be confident of a push up the table.

Squad: Alex Nicholson, Will Mahoney, Liam Ratcliffe , Matt Higgin (c), Will Bletso, Oli Winter, Mike Richardson, Harvey Mewis, Jack Wylie. George Coffey, Frankie Routledge, Harry Ramsey

Report by Bryan Bletso

Ashford Town 4 - 4 Badgers U14A (Surrey Youth League Premier Elite)

2011-02-06T20:34:00.002Z

Anything the Premier League can do the Surrey Youth League can do better. What a game! The Brockham boys took a whole lot more from this game than just the point. They proved to themselves that they can compete, they proved they can come back when seemingly buried, but most of all they relearned the tempo and work rate that for years had forged their spirit and yet this season had until now somehow eluded them.

The Badgers were right at the Ashford team from the off, pressing play, winning tackles, and breaking at pace. It caught their hosts off-guard and unsettled their backline. Within minutes Brockham had two good chances to take the lead but it took twenty minutes before their persistence paid off. Sam Lloyd lofted a high cross in from the left and Simon Vakeva-Baird headed home from close range at the far post.

Ashford to their credit stuck to their game plan and gradually started to rein back some possession in the latter stages of the first half. Some well timed tackles by Tom Hampshire and Justin Tarrant prevented one or two dangerous passages of play developing but the signs were there and there was nothing they could do to prevent the equaliser. An early strike from range hit the foot of the Badgers upright, bounced out to the penalty spot from where a clearance merely fell back for the Ashford striker to lift over James Rabbetts in goal.

Brockham came back out for the second half with the same tempo as they started the first. Things looked promising until an innocuous shot from Ashford found the net. Rabbetts seemingly had the save covered but the ball bounced in front of him as he stretched to reach it and he watched mournfully as it went over his arms and rolled over the line.

It was still all to play for and both teams were competing strongly for a narrow advantage until two suicidal incidents of miscommunication between defence and keeper gifted Ashford a three goal lead. Two silly mistakes and the Badgers were 4-1 down with five minutes to play and seemingly down an out of a game they didn’t deserve to be losing by such a margin.

The boys had other ideas however. With new found resolve they mustered themselves for an almighty last effort to salvage something if only pride. From the spot kick a midfield surge saw Ashford concede a free kick. Jack Coppin whipped in a dangerous ball to the six yard area from where Tarrant finished with his right following a goal-mouth pinball.

Two minutes later a clearance found Lloyd lurching on the edge of the area. He got a shot off but it was blocked by the Ashford defence. The rebound span out to Coppin in the 18 yard D from where he lifted a peach of a left foot shot into the net.

With only seconds on the clock the Brockham manager half jokingly asked for another. The Ashford centre kick was brought forward in midfield but the advance was quickly closed down by Hampshire and Tarrant. Lloyd pinched possession and with a quick look up he saw Jordan Martin free on the left. An inspired lofted pass of 30 yards into space was met by Martin running at pace. This was his moment. So many similar chances had passed this season but somehow he picked the most challenging of all to drive coolly past the Ashford keeper and level the game.

The boys celebrated in style and deservedly so. They can build on this and enjoy once again the fantastic team spirit that has seen them good for so long.

Lad of the Match: Sam Lloyd

Report by Jason Rabbetts

Badgers U9A 2 - 2 Bookham Colts U9A (Epsom & Ewell League Premier Division)

2011-02-06T12:59:00.003Z

Brockham kicked off this match at tempo, playing the best passing football of their lives and their supporters loved it; the only crucial thing missing was a goal. Brockham dominated the first half and should have been three up by the interval but as has happened on numerous occasions this season Brockham had not converted pressure into goals. After the interval Brockham looked like a different team and were caught watching the game being played around them and sure enough Bookham stuck one in the net, shortly followed by a second; much to the frustration of the noisy home crowd. Coach Rabbetts could only administer verbal smelling salts in an attempt to rouse his team and get them back into the game. It seemed to work and after 15 minutes of the second half Brockham awoke from their slumber and started playing football once again. Joss Hunt broke down the right and whipped a perfect cross into the Bookham penalty area where Joe Rabbetts hit the ball cleanly to narrow the deficit and bring some hope to the home team and its supporters.

Brockham continued to pile on the pressure, with excellent tackling by George Wryde winning numerous corners for Brockham but as the game entered stoppage time the elusive second goal wouldn’t come. Ed Russ then won the ball in his own penalty area and ran the length of the pitch, passing 2 opposition players before being brought down in the Bookham penalty area, fortunately Joe Rabbetts was on hand to finish and bring the score all square. Brockham continued to push and the ref blew the final whistle as the ball was heading for the Bookham goal; had the game lasted a further 5 seconds Brockham would have taken all 3 points. If this match were a 3 course meal we would have had foie gras to start, tripe as a main and perfectly executed crème brulée for dessert. The only thing missing was The Champagne but that can stay on ice until next week.

Man of the Match: George Wryde

Report by Rick Russ

Badgers U12A 1 - 3 Dorkinians (Horsham and District B League)

2011-02-06T11:21:00.000Z

Someone's 100% record had to give as the two unbeaten teams in League B came head to head on the Big Field.

Despite playing into a strong breeze in the first half Brockham weren't blown away by Dorkinians fast, neat passing and firm but fair tackling. Dorkinians we soon building pressure on the Badger goal but their third successive corner was cleared by Killick to Tiley and a lightning break ended with the visiting keeper scrambling to collect in his own area. Dorking found success on their left flank and opened the scoring on 16 minutes with a good shot from the edge of the box. A minute later they doubled their advantage with a sharp finish from a left wing cross for 2-0. The Badger defence had to be at their best to stop Dorkinians running riot, keeper Potts saving on the line, ever reliable Lane recovering to thwart another attack and then covering to clear when Potts had been beaten. Vaughan cleared well from the resulting corner and Brockham ended on the attack with half chances for Turner and Teague.

With the wind behind them in the second half Brockham inflicted early pressure on the goal at the "Pavilion End". Turner set up Wickens whose shot was saved but Dorkinians countered and Potts made a fine save from a long shot. Thomas broke down the left with a strong run to win a corner but Dorking came back again to force Potts to make an even better save - standing up to the oncoming striker and getting a strong hand out to parry the shot clear. Finally Brockham's efforts were rewarded with a great goal on the counter attack - Turner cleared to Teague in the centre circle who touched it around his opponent, put a ball through the defence and set off in chase. Thomas came in from the right, beating Teague and the defender to the ball and poked it past the keeper and into the net. 1-2 game on...

Despite being reduced to 10 men by injury Dorking broke again to win a corner, which wasn't cleared properly. Badgers lost possession on the edge of the box and two sharp passes later the ball was in the back of their net again to give their opponents a decisive 3-1 lead.

Brockham fought back again and ended the match on the front foot, with the ref (Phil) emulating Clive Thomas by blowing for full time as the corner came across.

It was a typically brave and strong performance by Brockham and they were only beaten by a team who should probably already be in the A Division. Dorkinians march on unbeaten to certain promotion but Brockham should still be good for 2nd place - and there's always the rematch on 2 April to look forward to!

Man of the Match was goalkeeper Sam Potts who kept Brockham in the game with some great saves and covered his whole goal area like a young, uncorrupted Bruce Grobelaar (ask your parents kids!)

Squad: Toby Barnes, Kemal Dogansoy, Jamie Donegan, Daniel Killick, Dominic Lane, Sam Potts, Jacob Purcell, Joe Teague, Wilbur Tiley, Will Thomas, Ollie Turner, Jacob Vaughan, George Warne, Harry Wickens

Report by Ian Thomas

Heron Olympic 2 - 4 Badgers U16A (Horsham & District B League)

2011-02-05T16:30:00.001Z

A game switched to the Big Field in Brockham saw Brockham eventually run out 4-2 winners over a battling Heron side,

Heron had pegged Badgers back twice from 1-0 and 2-0, but two goals in the final 12 minutes at last gave Brockham some daylight over their opponents.

With a strong wind to contend with, Brockham played well in the first half to contain Heron, Brockham creating the clearest chances when Aaron Clark and Henry Hill went close.

The game sparked into life in the second half when Will Bletso did well to get to a ball, his long clearance finding Stephen Kehl in space behind the Heron defence, Kehl slotting the ball home. Badgers sat back and after a couple of close scares, Heron equalised when Brockham were caught short at the back after failing to clear. Kehl once more gave the lead to the Brockham side, a good pass back by lad of the match Joe Parker seeing Kehl score well from 12 yards, but again Heron came back, scoring after a mix up in the Badgers defence.

But Brockham kept going and a great free kick from Charlie Holmes placed on a pin head into the Heron 6 yard was met by captain Tom Bletso and Henry Hill, Hill doing well to direct the ball past the Heron keeper to claim the goal and make it 3-2. Soon after Aaron Clark made it 4-2 to let Badgers at last breath a little more easily, Brockham just about deserving their win.

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Henry Smith, Joe Parker, Tom Bletso (c), Jack Hunt, Charlie Holmes, Mike Carty, Henry Hill, Will Bletso, Aaron Clark, Stephen Kehl, Tim Hopkins, Ollie Legg

Report by Bryan Bletso

Ewhurst Rams 1 - 13 Badgers U10A (South Surrey Boys League)

2011-02-04T14:54:00.002Z

It was a cold windy morning that blew Brockham Badgers into Ewhurst for their game on Saturday. On a regular size pitch, but with larger goals than Brockham are accustomed to, we witnessed what has come to be known as "a game of two halves".

For much of the first-half a subdued Brockham were mostly absent in midfield. There seemed little bite, no support and on many occasions the midfield seemed to be playing in front of the forwards.

Morgan Hamilton kept Brockham in the game as Ewhurst hit shots from around the edge of the area. Morgan was the best player on the pitch in that first half. But even he could not keep Ewhurst out forever. Eventually one had to go in and it was hard to see where the reply would come from. Even so…

George Lees was making good progress down the right. George battled hard and his feet were like a couple of pieces of flint being rubbed together. He tried on many occasions to cross the ball but was often thwarted by two or three defenders at a time. He really was a danger man and Ewhurst had to be on their game to keep him out.

Ezra Charles was frustrated in attack by lack of service and finding himself having to work further and further back to compensate. He did eventually manage a trick or two to find Adam Bower who finished well at the far post.

Then something very subtle happened that seemed to galvanise the team. Oliver Yeates was on for Ezra and working well at bringing the ball out from the back. When one of his acclaimed passes was picked off by Ewhurst Oliver Quigley went to recover it. Oliver Q showed a determination, relentlessness in the tackle and a will to succeed that we had not seen before. He won the ball, played the pass and was making an angle for the return.

The whistle blew just as the tide was turning…

Half-Time: Ewhurst Rams 1 Brockham Badgers 1

The second half couldn't have been anymore different than the first-half. There were no clouds in the sky but it was suddenly raining goals. Adam Bower sewed up a hat-trick with some excellent finishing. Adam is developing a trademark swivel at the far post for crosses coming in from the right. He certainly did the trick on Saturday.

Oliver Yeates helped himself to a hat-trick too. Oliver was now running though with the ball and setting up goals. He even gave one to Ezra he could have easily taken for himself. Now that's some team player.

Ezra completed a hat-trick of hat-tricks for the Badgers. Morgan Hamilton got the goal he'd been looking for and deserved. Late on Joe Allen scored a screamer to rival Jack Duncan's spectacular drive from last week. The ever-dependable Toby Evans scored a well-deserved first for the A-team too. And Henry Lucas set up wave after wave of counter-attacks

Again, Oliver Quigley caught the eye. His goal was sandwiched between the other twelve in the second half but it stood out for the way he got it.

Oliver gracefully skipped past a couple of defenders to get into the box, was dispossessed but then won it back again; nothing was going to hold this boy back. As defenders sought to block, tackle and harry him away from goal Oliver did not give up. He showed strength and character and a belief in himself that was a joy to watch.

Oliver's goal was all about grit and physical strength. He would not be denied. And the determination he showed which seemed to ignite The Badgers earlier on was rewarded with a fine individual goal.

Full-Time: Ewhurst Rams 1 Brockham Badgers 13

Man of The Match: Oliver Quigley (He's shown us great skill all season, on Saturday he showed bravery and commitment too – a fine performance)

Squad: Morgan Hamilton, Joe Allen, Henry Lucas, Toby Evans, Oliver Quigley, Adam Bower, Oliver Yeates, Ezra Charles and George Lees

Report by Jason Charles

Badgers U9A 1 - 4 Leatherhead FC (Epsom & Ewell League Premier Division)

2011-01-31T08:55:00.001Z

Following last weeks’ hard fought draw away at Epsom Eagles, Brockham went into this match with a high level of confidence and came out playing attacking football. Some great runs by Will Timmons, goods skills by Joe Rabbetts and solid tackling by George Wryde at left back meant that Brockham were looking the better team during the early stages. A great run down the right by Owen Knowles followed by a perfect cross was met by Joe Rabbetts with an accomplished finish, 1-0. Brockham continued to apply pressure with Leatherhead counter attacking and on the stroke of half time Leatherhead got one back.

The late first half goal buoyed Leatherhead who came out meaning business in the second half, whilst Brockham seemed a shadow of their former selves. Leatherhead shot over the bar and that was soon followed by a brace of goals leaving Brockham 1-3 down after 10 minutes of the half. Brockham picked themselves up and pushed forward , forcing corners and creating shots on goal but they couldn’t find the back of the net. Sam Church battled in midfield for Brockham but that was not enough and Brockham were down and out when Leatherhead broke again to put away their fourth. A positive first half by Brockham, but they’ll have to maintain their concentration for the whole 50 minutes if they are going to take points from teams such as Leatherhead.

Man of the Match: Sam Church

Report by Rick Russ

Horsham Sparrows 1 - 2 Badgers U9 Barbarians (Horsham & District League)

2011-01-31T01:26:00.001Z

YOU CAN’T KEEP A GOOD BADGER DOWN!

A combination of bad weather and a sparse fixture list having prevented a ball being kicked in anger for more than two months, it was going to be interesting to see how rusty the Brockham Badgers U9 Barbarians were after their enforced break.

The corresponding home fixture having been a close encounter with the Barbarians overturning a 1-2 deficit with two late goals, there was always going to be a need for the team to be at their best. The opening ten minutes saw Horsham dominating play, assisted by a lack of cohesiveness amongst the Barbarians. A tendency to dwell on the ball in midfield and attack, along with some misplaced passes enabled the opposition to put considerable pressure on the visitors’ defence. Horsham gained their reward when the constant penetration of their strongest player led to a goal from close range.

Some questionable refereeing decisions, including the denial of a clear penalty for a foul on striker Callum Holder served only to stiffen the resolve of a team not unused to recovering from losing positions. The Barbarians have this season shown that they are not easily cowed, and following a reorganisation of the line-up at half-time, came out fighting. William Glenn, Tom Ambrose and Jethro Burton henceforth limited the Horsham attack to very few opportunities, and Lily Turner, Ben Austin and Ben Mackenzie became a much more creative and effective midfield force, stretching the play wide and providing forwards Arun Watkins and Callum Holder with a steady supply of good ball.

With ten minutes to go, Horsham gave way to the stronger will of the Brockham team. Good work down the right wing saw Arun Watkins force the ball to the far post where Callum Holder reacted quicker than his marker to slide the ball past the oncoming ‘keeper. 1-1 and the tide turned.

The Badgers sniffed a winner in the air, and constant attacking pressure saw a corner won on the left side. A Ben Mackenzie corner evaded the Horsham defence, reaching Callum Holder at the far side of the penalty area. A deft lob and the ball rested in the back of the net for Holder’s 20^th goal in ten games. There were hearts in mouths late in the game when a mishit clearance was returned goal-wards at considerable pace requiring a good save from a nerveless Huw Morgan. Victory for a team which does not know how to quit, and which understands very well that doing the right things earns the reward more often than not.

Men of the Match: Tom Ambrose & Callum Holder.

Squad: Lily Turner (c), Tom Ambrose, Ben Austin, Jethro Burton, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Ben Mackenzie, Huw Morgan, Arun Watkins.

Report by Frank Holder

Horsham Ambassadors 0 - 3 Badgers U12A (Horsham and District B League)

2011-01-30T11:21:00.000Z

On another bitterly cold morning Brockham faced 4th placed Horsham needing to win to keep one step ahead of Dorkinians before next weekend's top of the table clash. Brockham had all the early possession and after a couple of half chances a through ball from Killick set Teague down the right, he crossed and Horsham cleared behind. Teague struck the resulting corner well and it drifted above the defence and curled into the far corner to put Brockham ahead 1-0. With Toby Barnes and Harry Wickens showing some neat touches on their Brockham debuts the Badgers created several more chances - Warne going closest with a long low drive just past the post and Teague and Donegan forcing saves from the Horsham keeper - but at half time there was still only a single goal in it.

Horsham came out of the blocks in the second half and the Brockham goal was soon under pressure but Man of the Match Lane followed up a flying block with a long ball to Turner whose shot was well saved. More promising Brockham play fizzled out as Horsham took advantage of the slope to force their way back into the Brockham half and win a corner. The well delivered cross was only half cleared and Lane was in the right place again to head the resulting shot off the line to safety. Lane cleared the next corner, won a 50/50 ball and set Turner away again for another chance. Tiley was working hard on the left wing and Donegan had a shot spilled by the keeper but scrambled away to safety.

Warne was winning a lot of ball in midfield and punted a through ball for Turner to chase into the box where he was tackled and awarded a penalty. Warne hit his shot hard and low and the keeper did very well to block it. Turner hit the rebound against the post but left back Vaughan pounced on the rebound to poach Brockham's second. With the points in the bag Turner battled through several challenges before sweeping the ball into the net for a 3-0 victory and top spot.

Squad: Toby Barnes, Kemal Dogansoy, Jamie Donegan, Daniel Killick, Dominic Lane, Sam Potts, Joe Teague, Wilbur Tiley, Will Thomas, Ollie Turner, Jacob Vaughan, George Warne, Harry Wickens

Report by Ian Thomas

Badgers U16A 1 - 2 Upper Beeding (Horsham & District B League)

2011-01-30T09:32:00.002Z

Brockham Badgers U16A somehow fell to a defeat against a battling Upper Beeding side, Brockham conceding late on to lose a game they should have convincingly won.

Apart from the opening 15 minutes, when Brockham looked sluggish and Upper Beeding scored a fine long range opener that gave Brockham keeper Connor Mitchell little chance, Brockham dominated creating chance after chance.

Upper Beeding held on till half time, but at last Brockham made their pressure tell 15 minutes into the second half when Aaron Clark bundled the ball home. It seemed inevitable that Brockham would go on and win the match, but as chances were spurned, Brockham got more anxipus. Even so, with lad of the match Tim Hopkins doing well at the back, Upper Beeding were making no impression in attack, however in what was their only shot on target in the second half, with 5 minutes to go, Broclkham were behind as Beeding scored on the break.

Brockham forced corner after corner, but somehow Beeding's goal survived with their keeper producing a strong display to see out an unexpected win

Squad: Connor Mitchell, Charlie Holmes, Joe Parker, Tom Bletso (c), Will Bletso, Ollie Smith, Ollie Legg, Mike Carty, Henry Hill, Aaron Clark, Stephen Kehl, Tim Hopkins

Report by Bryan Bletso