GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 9th April 2005

FINCHAMPSTEAD RES 1
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 1

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to second placed Finchampstead knowing a point would earn them the Championship title. They arrived at the ground early and were impressed with the quality of the pitch knowing they would be able to play football on the even surface.

Wantage showed their intentions early on when Tom Srawley fed Austin on the right and only a well timed block prevented town from taking the lead. Finchampstead’s leading scorer Hobbs was involved in a clash of heads with John Srawley, both players needed attention before they could return to the action. On 13 minutes a Spittle corner was knocked out to McCullough who saw his effort come back off the crossbar. With 18 minutes played Wantage were awarded a free kick just inside the opposition half, Spittle delivered the ball to the far post, Morrison returned the ball into the danger area, McCullough challenged for the ball, it was headed out to Austin who smashed the ball into the net off of the underside of the crossbar.

Town were looking comfortable passing the ball along the ground with the wind behind them playing down the slope. From another corner kick Zielinski had a header thump against the bar and from the goalmouth scramble the ball was blocked and cleared from the line by a defender. With 10 minutes of the first half remaining Finchampstead won a corner, from the near post delivery the ball was knocked into the net by Gooch to level the scores at half time.

The second half was always going to be tight with the home side needing to win. Within 2 minutes a deep cross was missed by Morrison and the ball was smashed over the bar from close range. Wantage then steeled themselves for the final 45 minutes, concentration was the key and Town defended from the front with everyone switched on. Lynch was impressive with clean catching and some good strong punching. Finchampstead introduced their substitutes, replacing defenders with more attacking options. Wantage replaced Morrison with Rowe, Hicks and McCullough dropped into midfield to defend their point.

As the match went into added on time Austin broke into the penalty area and was tripped from behind. Referee Mr Fisher awarded a penalty kick which Zielinski stepped up to take. Although Giles in the Finches goal went the wrong way the ball rolled agonisingly wide of the left hand post. The home side threw everyone forward including their keeper for the last corner of the game but it was fitting that ‘man of the match’ Pete Broad headed clear the final cross and Wantage clinched the point required on the ground of their only remaining rival.

This was a terrific performance in a compelling match. Both sides played well, Wantage created some good chances and were denied by the woodwork, some stout defending and a penalty miss. The defence played magnificently, with good support from Pettis, Spittle and Tom Srawley. Hicks, McCullough and later Rowe all looked lively preventing the home defence time to settle. A point was all that was required and Town took the point and the Championship.

Team: A Lynch, Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, L McCullough, T Srawley, P Spittle.
Subs: T Rowe C Pilling D Terry.

Wantage Town Reserves receive the Reserve Division One Championship Shield

Wantage Town Reserves Championship Winning Squad 2004/2005

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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 2nd April 2005

HUNGERFORD TOWN RES 1
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 3

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to Hungerford Town knowing only a win would do to maintain their challenge for the League title. Paul Spittle and Liam McCullough returned to the fold but Tom Austin was not available for selection due to his deserved promotion to the First team starting eleven.

The pitch was surprisingly firm considering the recent rain and the goalmouths were dry and uneven. The home side were attacking down the slope and their tall players towered over the players in green and white. As early as the 4th minute Wantage were caught out by a long ball over the top, John Srawley was dispossessed on the edge of his own area and he hauled back the lively Edwards. The free kick was wasted as the Wantage wall cleared the ball to safety. Wantage then began to show some quality, moving the ball out wide with McCullough becoming more involved in the build up play.

On 17 minutes Pettis was twice denied by defensive blocks by Domm in the Hungerford goal, but Wantage maintained the pressure and after two superb saves by Domm the ball fell to McCullough who nodded the ball into the empty net. Wantage did not look comfortable against the big Hungerford players and from a set piece Folley blasted over from close range. The miss proved costly as Wantage increased their lead soon after. Zielinski appeared to over hit a through ball for McCullough but the keeper and a defender collided and the ball came loose to the deadly McCullough who lifted the ball over the pair into the net.

Wantage, although not playing their normal passing game on the uneven surface, appeared to be coasting to victory but on the stroke of half time they conceded a disputed goal. A goal bound shot was deflected wide to an unmarked forward Folley, who beat the stranded Lynch, the defenders appealed to the linesman for offside but the flag stayed down and the goal stood.

After scoring at the end of the first half, Hungerford came out a different side at the start of the second. They pushed on up the slope using a more direct approach and Wantage defended well with Lynch claiming every high ball. Wantage looked dangerous on the break but the final ball was missing and the breaks were becoming less frequent. In an attempt to push the home side back Rowe was introduced as a third attacker in place of Terry. Although Hungerford continued to attack they were now more vulnerable to the Wantage counter attack with Rowe holding the ball up and earning his side free kicks in the opposition half. The youngster set up Hicks with a good chance which went begging and then Hicks found himself through on goal but the keeper saved well.

McGowran replaced McCullough who was suffering from a knock on the ankle and Pilling replaced Hicks as Wantage set about tying up the game. Although Hungerford had plenty of possession they couldn’t break down the visitors defence and it was Pilling who had a clear opportunity to extend the lead but Donn saved bravely at his feet as he attempted to round the keeper. With the game deep in added on time Wantage were awarded a penalty kick when McGowran cleverly cut in from the left wing and clipped the ball up to beat the last defender who blocked the ball with his hand.

Captain, Zielinski took the responsibility of taking the kick and calmly hammered the ball high into the net, beating the keeper who dived the right way. That kick was the final kick of the match as the referee blew his whistle with the ball still in the net.

Wantage looked jittery as then continued their quest for the title. The defence did well against a lively Hungerford attack and Lynch was confident in his handling and his kicking was superb. The midfield battled well to contain the home side on a hard uneven surface where the ball bobbled awkwardly. The introduction of Rowe seemed to help Wantage maintain the ball in the opposition half and his presence gave Hicks and McCullough more room. Pilling and McGowran did well at the end and between them they helped take the pressure off of the defence.

Now we have the final game of the season at Finchampstead on Saturday to look forward to.

Team: A Lynch, Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, D Terry, S Hicks, L McCullough, T Srawley, P Spittle.
Subs: T Rowe C Pilling S McGowran.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 26th March 2005

ABINGDON UTD RES 2
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 2

Wantage Town Reserves faced a rejuvenated Abingdon United reserve side under a new management team lead by Adam Lovegrove at Northcroft Rd. With McCullough and Spittle unavailable there were starts for Tom Rowe and Danny Terry.

The early exchanges were even with both defences on top, Rowe went close with a back header which was turned around the post by Abingdon keeper McBeth and at the other end Utd worked a clear opportunity but Barry shot wide into the side netting. Rowe and Hicks combined well and Hicks shot narrowly wide of the far post. On the half hour Wantage found the net through Rowe but he was caught offside, the keeper had come off his line for a cross, Austin lofted the ball towards goal and Rowe headed in but due to the keepers position he was offside. Abingdon’s Oram looked lively and produced a fine save from Lynch when he was clean through on goal. Just before half time Zielinski pushed forward and hit a low shot which was deflected goal wards by Tom Srawley but McBeth got down low to his left and pushed the ball around the post again.

Wantage began the second half well and within 7 minutes of the restart they took the lead through Rowe following a corner kick from Austin, the young forward struck a firm shot low into the bottom corner of the net. The lead lasted only 2 minutes, Oram received the ball just inside the Wantage half, he carried the ball forward and then struck a stunning shot which beat Lynch and nestled in the back of the net. Wantage pushed forward but looked uncomfortable with Abingdon’s speedy forwards. McGowran replaced Terry as Wantage tried to win the game but as an attack broke down Abingdon countered and won a free kick on the edge of the Town area. Bayliss struck the ball well but it took a deflection of the wall and left Lynch helpless as it flew into the net. Town responded well, Tom Srawley burst into the area but his effort went into the side netting and when it looked as if Town’s luck on the day had run out some thing changed. McGowran crossed into the area and a defenders attempted clearance looped up into the air and dropped under the crossbar, all McBeth could do was parry the ball into the net. Wantage pressed for a winner, McGowran, Morrison, Austin and Rowe all went close but the Abingdon defence held out for a well earned draw denting Towns Championship hopes.

Wantage looked short of ideas against a well organised Abingdon side. They battled hard and found Lady Luck was not on their side, although the second goal had a stroke of luck about it. Abingdon’s keeper, McBeth made some vital saves in the first half and Abingdon’s first goal would have beaten most keepers it was struck so well. Although we have dropped two points and the destiny of the title is not in our hands Finchampstead still have a lot to do.

Team: A Lynch, Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, T Rowe, T Srawley, D Terry.
Subs: S McGowran, C Pilling, S Gilbert.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Tuesday 22nd March 2005

WANTAGE TOWN RES 3
v
DIDCOT TOWN RES 1

The mid week fixture against local rivals Didcot Town Reserves was crucial to both sides if they were to challenge Finchampstead in the Championship race. All three clubs had to face each other in the remaining weeks of the season.

Wantage Town reserves had the wind at their backs in the first half, kicking towards the clubhouse. They almost had the perfect start when Tom Srawley hit a fierce shot which Spurrett, in the Didcot goal, blocked and the rebound was lifted over the keeper and the cross bar by the lively McCullough. Wantage were dominating the early minutes and Spurrett saved well from a Pettis header following a Spittle corner kick. On 10 minutes following good pressure, Austin delivered a deep cross towards the keeper, McCullough and a defender jumped for the ball with Spurrett , the ball dropped loose and Tom Srawley was free to flick the ball into the net. It was then that Didcot began to fight back and Lynch had to be alert to the threat as Didcot pushed on, the Wantage keeper saved well with his feet from Hoey.

The game swayed Wantage’s way again when McCullough and Hicks worked well together on the right, the ball was laid back to Tom Srawley who hit another ferocious shot which found it’s way into the top corner of the goal. The visitors were still dangerous on the break, especially Hoey who was well marshalled by Austin throughout the whole match but on the one occasion he delivered a telling cross Broad hooked the ball away to safety.

The wind appeared to drop during the interval, this allowed Wantage to play their own passing game against a newly fired up Didcot side. The challenges began to fly in yet it was Morrison who went close with a low shot which missed the far post by a whisker and then Austin cut in from the right wing and hit a low cross which eluded everyone else and nestled in the back of the net. McCullough fell awkwardly and dislocated his shoulder, he played on for a few minutes before being replaced by Saturday’s goal hero Rowe. The youngster Rowe, was not phased by the experience and settled into the side immediately.

With the home defence dominating the visitors attack, substitutes Terry and McGowran were introduced to rest Morrison and Spittle for next week end’s fixture at Abingdon United. With 5 minutes remaining Didcot were thrown a lifeline when John Srawley’s cushioned header to Lynch, slipped past the keeper into the net. Didcot threw men forward but the Wantage defence remained composed and held out for a 3 - 1 victory.

This was a big win for Wantage Town Reserves with 3 games remaining. The standard of football was high and the confidence of the players showed on the field of play. Now for the next match at Abingdon United on Saturday.

Team: A Lynch, T Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, L McCullough, T Srawley, P Spittle.
Subs: D Terry, T Rowe, S McGowran.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 19th March 2005

WANTAGE TOWN RES 4
v
BINFIELD RES 1

Wantage Town Reserves faced a visit from fourth placed Binfield without both Liam McCullough and tom Austin who were both included in the First Team squad. This meant a first start for youngster Tom Rowe and a debut for new signing Danny Terry.

Wantage began well, knocking the ball around with confidence. Spittle, Tom Srawley and Pettis were moving the ball from one side of the pitch to the other using Morrison and Terry on the wings. On 5 minutes Wantage took the lead with a stunning strike from Rowe, the ball was headed out of the area to Rowe who hit a sweet left foot volley which flew past Hambleton, the visiting keeper, into the top corner of the net. Binfield then settled into the match and began to compete in the midfield. Wantage were still on top with Hicks and Rowe working hard up front and the back three keeping it tight at the back. On 23 minutes Wantage won a corner kick, Spittle delivered the ball to the far post where Morrison headed goalwards, the ball was blocked by a defender but the ball ran loose to Rowe who drove the ball low into the net through a mass of players. Binfield kept playing football and towards the end of the half Broad made two decisive headed clearances.

The second half was less than a minute old when Rowe completed his hat trick, Spittle clipped the ball over the defence, Rowe held off his marker and lifted the ball over Hambleton into the net. Hicks played in Terry who hit a fierce shot that just cleared the crossbar, then Tom Srawley played a through ball to Hicks who ran through unchallenged but his shot beat the keeper and the post. With 25 minutes remaining Morrison battled his way through the Binfield defence and crashed home goal number four. Terry went close twice more being denied by the visiting keeper.

McGowran replaced Morrison with 20 minutes remaining and then Lynch conceded his first goal in five games when Hotson timed his run to perfection, broke clear before firing past the stranded keeper. Gilbert and James Hicks replaced Spittle and Simon Hicks for the final minutes as Wantage ran the clock down on another fine 4-1 victory.

This was another fine team performance but it was Tom Rowe who stole the day. The 16 year old showed great ability and took all of his goals very well and worked well along side Hicks. There as also a good debut for Danny Terry who could have had a couple of goals himself. The back three were sound and again played well as a unit. Lynch had another fine game in goal.

Team: A Lynch, T Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, D Terry, S Hicks, T Rowe, T Srawley, P Spittle.
Subs: S McGowran, S Gilbert, J Hicks.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 12th March 2005

MILTON UTD RES 0
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 5

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to local rivals Milton Utd with an unchanged squad. With Wantage leading the league table a tough game was expected against last seasons Champions.

Wantage began well, playing with the wind at their backs, they passed the ball around dominating possession, keeping the home side on the back foot. It wasn’t until the 18th minute that the first clear chance was created when Tom Srawley was sent clean through on goal. He drew Walker, the Milton keeper, off his line before slipping the ball under his body but before the ball could cross the line West managed to recover and clear the ball to safety. Wantage kept up the pressure with some neat interplay between the five midfield players. McCullough and Hicks linked up to release Austin who had two shots well blocked by Walker.

On 25 minutes Town took the lead with a well worked goal, Zielinski broke down the right wing and crossed the ball low into the near post area, Tom Srawley arrived and stepped over the ball allowing it to run through to McCullough who had a simple job of tapping it into the empty net. Walker made another fine save from Austin after he had given away a free kick for handling a back pass and then he dived bravely at Zielinski’s feet after the big defender had broken clear on goal. The only shot Milton could manage was a free kick which was comfortably saved by Lynch.

Wantage knew they had to keep the ball on the floor in the second half with the wind blowing down the pitch and the defenders had to concentrate against the Milton attack. It was Wantage who kept the ball and early on Hicks held off his marker before shooting past Walker but the ball went narrowly wide of the post. Then on 55 minutes McCullough won a free kick on the right, Spittle delivered a pin point cross into the penalty area for Pettis to head Wantage into a two goal lead. Wantage were dominating the game, Morrison went close with a shot into the side netting from a narrow angle, then in a 12 minute spell they scored three more goals all from McCullough.

On 75 minutes Austin was released down the right, he cut in along the goal line before cutting the ball back to McCullough whose first attempt was saved by Walker before he stabbed the ball over the line at the second attempt. 2 minutes later Zielinski played the ball over the top of the Milton defence and McCullough ran through, looked up and lifted the ball over the advancing keeper into an empty net. Rowe replaced Hicks as Wantage searched for more goals, then McGowran replaced Morrison on the left before McCullough rounded of an excellent display with his 4th goal of the match. It was Austin who was provider again as he cut in from the right and laid the ball across for a simple shot into the roof of the net. Gilbert replaced the goal hero with 5 minutes remaining as Wantage completed the double over Milton.

This was as good a performance as the side have put together this season in front of a number of travelling supporters. The defence were solid and used the ball well. The midfield played neat, short passing football which Milton could not cope with. The movement of the front men was superb and in McCullough Town had a player who was outstanding on the day. He will take the glory but as he admitted, the service and support he received was exceptional.

Team: A Lynch, Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, L McCullough, T Srawley, P Spittle.
Subs: T Rowe, S McGowran, S Gilbert.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 5th March 2005

KIDLINGTON RES 0
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 3

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to Kidlington strengthened by the return from injuries of Paul Spittle and Liam McCullough. With Steve Hale returning to the First Team Management team, Alex Lynch took over as goalkeeper yet again.

Wantage started the game very slowly, the passing was astray and Kidlington looked sharper and were causing problems with their more direct approach. Lynch made his presence felt by standing up to the Kidlington attack and he was not called upon to make a telling save. On 16 minutes Pettis hit a good shot which was well saved by Peck in the Kidlington goal at the second attempt with Hicks closing in. Although the home side were battling in mid field they were keeping eight men behind the ball, this action kept breaking down the Wantage moves right across the pitch.

On 20 minutes Hicks received the ball out wide on the right wing, he crossed the ball in and McCullough nipped across the front of his marker and sent a header towards goal but Peck saved well. Wantage then began to assert themselves upon the home side, the passes were being strung together, the ball was moving quicker, Spittle, Tom Srawley and Pettis were dictating the play. An eight pass move ended with Spittle seeing his 25 yard drive being turned around the post by Peck, then Broad had a long range effort which went narrowly over the cross bar.

On 35 minutes Wantage took the lead, after patient build up play Tom Srawley fed Spittle on the right, his pin point cross was met by Hicks as he out jumped his marker and sent a glancing header just inside the far post. Wantage were now in command, Broad tried his luck with another long range effort as Wantage pushed Kidlington back, defending deep in their own half. Peck was busy in the home goal and after some neat inter passing McCullough was denied by a fine save at the foot of the post, diverting the ball out for a corner. The corner kick was delivered into a dangerous area and the ball fell to McCullough who turned well and made no mistake from close range. Wantage continued to attack but the half time whistle rescued the home side from further punishment.

Wantage started the second period slowly but the defence of Broad, John Srawley and Zielinski looked solid and with Morrison and Austin supplying the width there was always a player free to relieve any pressure. Goalkeeper Peck was in tremendous form, he saved bravely on several occasions, denying Austin, Tom Srawley, Morrison and Hicks from scoring. Eventually Wantage added a third goal, Pettis found Tom Srawley with a short pass, he then played the ball out wide to Austin who crossed the ball in low towards the near post where McCullough arrived to score his second goal of the game.

Rowe replaced the exhausted McCullough with 25 minutes remaining and still they looked to add more goals. Hicks held off his marker before laying the ball back to Spittle who hit a cracking drive which Peck turned over with another great save then Tom Srawley had a shot deflected but again the keeper managed to push the ball up onto the bar and over to safety. McGowran and Gilbert replaced Morrison and Spittle was Wantage ran down the clock on another victory with Lynch keeping his fourth clean sheet in a row.

After a slow start, where Kidlington could have embarrassed Wantage, the side settled down and began to pass the ball around using players all over the pitch. The team work for each other, when a player is having an off day he doesn’t need telling, he needs help. This was a great team performance, when things were not going well they kept passing the ball and turned the game around. There were many good performances throughout the side.

Team: A Lynch, Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, L McCullough, T Srawley, P Spittle.
Subs: T Rowe, S McGowran, S Gilbert.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 26th February 2005

NORTH LEIGH RES 1
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 3

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to 4th placed North Leigh hoping to avenge the 3-2 defeat inflicted upon them by their hosts at the start of the season. With a settled squad Town knew they had to win and were confident they could take all 3 points.

Town started well, keeping possession of the ball, probing the home defence, winning possession back, when the moves broke down. On 11 minutes Zielinski went close with a diving header from a corner kick, his effort glancing wide of the far post. Then Hicks fed Austin on the right wing and his cross was deflected goal wards by a defender but Rose the North Leigh keeper tipped the ball onto the post and gathered in the rebound. Austin was providing save quality crosses but Lynch and Belcher were unable to benefit, it was Jones who forced Rose to make a comfortable save from a looping header. Wantage were well on top but Forrester was leading the home forward line well and Srawley, Broad and Zielinski had to be solid at the back. Wantage worked a short corner between Austin and Belcher which resulted in a goalmouth scramble resulting in Zielinski shooting over the bar. Wantage almost paid for the missed chances when from a free kick North Leigh attacked the goal and it was a scramble in the Town six yard box which resulted in the ball being turned behind for a corner kick.

On 40 minutes the deadlock was broken, Belcher won the ball out wide on the right and laid the ball to Morrison in the centre of the pitch, as Jones ran in from the left, and Morrison slotted the ball through. Jones deceived the keeper with his run and found an empty net to roll the ball in and make it 1-0 at half time.

Although the half time team talk warned or the home side coming out fighting Wantage were not prepared for the transformation in them. Firstly Wantage broke down the left with Jones, his low cross was met by Belcher but Rose made a brave save and then dived at Lynches feet as he followed up to score. Then North Leigh took control of the game, they pinned Town back as they broke down either wing. On the hour the home side had the ball in the net, but the referee disallowed the goal but 3 minutes later the scores were level.

After a prolonged attack Howe drove a low shot in off a post. This goal appeared to spark Town into action, Morrison, Pettis and Hicks starts to compete in midfield using the ball in wide areas, looking to get Belcher and Lynch back into action. Austin received the ball out wide and fed Belcher who turned his marker and fired the ball wide of Rose to put Town back on top. Then within a minute, Town scored again, Lynch played a ball over the defenders and Belcher ran on and beat Rose with a low shot, the ball struck the post but the forward followed up to net the loose ball. Rowe replaced Lynch as Town pushed and the youngster showed good work as he fitted into the attack. North Leigh had another goal effort well saved by Hale at the foot of his right hand post but the score line remained 3-1. The young referee Neil Davies had a fine game and showed his authority when booking Srawley for an untidy challenge on the edge of the Town area.

This was a good result, although the performance was somewhat erratic. We looked comfortable at times and knocked the ball around well in the first half kicking up the slope. They were complacent in the second half and allowed the opposition by over committing played forward. Wantage overplayed the ball instead of keeping the opponents on the back foot, with a more direct approach. At least the side got things sorted out and got themselves back on top and went on to win the game.

Team: S Hale, Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, S Belcher, G Jones, A Lynch.
Subs: T Rowe, S McGowran.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Tuesday 22nd February 2005

FAIRFORD TOWN RES 0
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 1

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to Fairford Town for the midweek fixture with several players still missing but the squad included Steve Hale and Adam Giles. With snow during the day the Fairford pitch looked good, but the surface was very uneven.

The home side started well and it took a while for Wantage to settle. Passing football was difficult on the bobbly pitch and the central midfield area was too congested. Giles was working hard up front, winning the aerial battles but team mates were finding it difficult to get on the end of his good work. Lynch broke clear but saw his shot roll wide of the far post and then he lobbed his next chance over the bar. On 28 minutes Wantage took the lead when Austin’s scuffed corner kick was sliced into his own net by a defender. The Wantage defence were playing well, John Srawley was organising Lamont and Broad, and the Fairford attack was blunted as Wantage defended in numbers. Giles was unlucky with two good opportunities, firstly he had a header blocked by a defender on the line and then he broke clear and saw hit shot hit a post and as he moved in for the rebound the home keeper Davies, turned the ball around the post.

The second half began well for the home side as they pinned Wantage in their own half and after just two minutes they were awarded a penalty kick when Broad brought down Snook as he broke into the box. Terdos stepped up and hit a fierce shot which came back off the crossbar and was cleared by Morrison. This was the wake up call Wantage needed. Lynch was struggling with the pace of the game, unable to feed off Giles he was replaced by Rowe with 25 minutes remaining. The youngster began to link up with Giles, relieving the pressure on the defence, and Wantage began to show a cutting edge in the final third. The best move of the match came from Wantage when Tom Srawley threaded a ball out wide to Austin who whipped in a low cross which was met by Giles but his low drive was well saved by Davies. From then on Wantage began to show some form with Rowe and Tom Srawley both shooting narrowly wide with the keeper beaten and at the other end Hale was kept quiet by some excellent defending by the back line and the impressive Morrison.

This was another result ground out through hard work and good team spirit. The defence played well as a unit and were well supported by Pettis and Morrison. Hicks had an excellent match in midfield, working hard to shut down the Fairford playmaker Courtney. Austin and Tom Srawley also stuck to their task even though the pitch didn’t suit their usual passing game. Lynch found it hard in the second half and was replaced by Rowe who again gave a promising display. Adam Giles lead the line well, he worked hard for 90 minutes and encouraged the youngsters throughout. He did a good job with Rowe and showed the youngster how to play at this level.

Team: S Hale, S Lamont, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, A Giles, T Srawley, A Lynch.
Subs: T Rowe, S Gilbert.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 12th February 2005

WANTAGE TOWN RES 2
v
FAIRFORD TOWN RES 0

Wantage Town reserves had to draw upon the full depth of the squad for the match against Fairford Town Reserves. With Sam Belcher and Liam McCullough withdrawing through injury there were call ups for Paul Broadis and youngster Tom Rowe.

Fairford were up for the game and began well. With the wind behind them they pinned Wantage in their own half. Lamont, who was back in action for the first time this year, slotted in at the back along side John Srawley and Zielinski to form a formidable back line in front of Lynch. Lynch made a couple of early saves at the feet of on coming forwards and then he pushed away a dangerous in swinging corner kick from under the crossbar. Wantage weathered the opening ten minutes and began to string some passes together with Tom Srawley leading the way. Hicks and Broadis were holding the ball up giving the defenders a target to hit. McGowran played a ball into the box which Broadis hit first time but the effort was blocked by a defender but on 24 minutes McGowran found Broadis again but this time he turned well and hit a low shot just inside the far post. Fairford were still on top and Wantage were forced to replace the injured McGowran with Gilbert. At half time the score was 1-0.

The second half was only 2 minutes old when Morrison was forced to withdraw from the action with a knee injury, being replaced by Chris Pilling. The home side were now on top with Tom Srawley, Pettis and Austin seeing more of the ball plus Hicks and Broadis were holding the ball up bringing the midfielders into the game. Tom Srawley and Broadis combined to set up Hicks but his effort was well saved by Davies in the Fairford goal. From the next attack Wantage increased their lead, Tom Srawley and Hicks worked the ball inside the area, Hicks turned his marker and cut the ball back to Pettis who made no mistake from 12 yards. Wantage were controlling the game now, Pilling was doing a good man marking job on Courtney, the Fairford playmaker and the defence were winning vital challenges and holding up the occasional breaks. With 20 minutes remaining Tom Rowe came on to make his debut, replacing Broadis up front. The youngster showed good vision and linked up well with his team mates. Austin had a low shot blocked and Gilbert almost got on the end of ball across the six yard box. At the final whistle the score remained 2-0 and Wantage had ground out another important victory in a match which was well handled by referee Malcolm Carter.

This was another good victory over a young footballing side. Fairford had the better of the first half but the goal from Broadis and some superb defending were the building blocks for the second half. Wantage were the better side in the second half and it was a bonus to be able to introduce the substitutes early in the game, giving them the time to show their value to the team. It was also good to see Stuart Lamont get 90 minutes under his belt.

Team: A Lynch, T Zielinski, C Pettis, J Srawley, S Lamont, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, P Broadis, T Srawley, S McGowran.
Subs: C Pilling, S Gilbert, T Rowe.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Tuesday 8th February 2005

WANTAGE TOWN RES 3
v
HIGHWORTH TOWN RES 0

Wantage Town Reserves faced Highworth Town Reserves with a side strengthened by the inclusions of several First team squad players. Gary Swann, Nigel Emsden and Richard Claydon all started as the home side looked to extend their winning run against a rapidly improving Highworth.

The match started at a fast pace with the ball moving swiftly across a flat Wantage pitch. Both sides were playing good football using the full width of the pitch probing at the opposite defences. Wantage began to get on top with Swann, Spittle and McCullough controlling the midfield. Claydon went close with two good efforts one skimming the top of the net. On 26 minutes the Highworth defence was opened up with a clever ball by McCullough through to Claydon who appeared to stumble before he slipped the ball past the advancing keeper into the net. Wantage were well on top at this stage and the pressure was telling as Highworth conceded a series of corners. From a corner the visitors were unable to clear the ball, Emsden returned the ball across the six yard box and McCullough darted in to head the ball in to the net. The third goal was soon to follow, Wantage forced another corner and Austin curled the ball into the goal area just below the crossbar and the ball found its way into the net. The game was still exciting to watch as both sides played passing football but the home defence looked comfortable against Highworth’s lone striker and Lynch was not really tested.

At half time Belcher was replaced by Hicks due to an injury and Highworth changed their formation and pushed another forward into the attack. Highworth saw more of the ball in the second half, they became more attack minded as they looked to get back into the match but they were open to the counter attack and some of the tackles became more cynical as they became stretched across the defence. Claydon went close on two occasions and Hicks and McCullough also had chances to score. The Wantage defence withstood the pressure and Lynch looked comfortable behind them, making a good save from Cooper low to his right hand post. Pettis and Morrison replaced McCullough and Claydon as Town tightened their grip on the game but in the final minute the referee awarded Highworth a penalty for hand ball against Morrison. The kick was struck hard and low to Lynch’s right but the keeper got down well keeping the ball out and then he managed to get his body across the follow up shot by Cooper and the ball spun away to safety.

This was yet another good result. Wantage had a very good first half where they controlled the game with some outstanding football. The second half was more evenly balanced but Wantage never looked in danger of throwing the points away. The team performed well as a unit and always looked capable of adding to their tally on the break.

Team: A Lynch, T Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, G Swann, P Spittle , T Austin, R Claydon, S Belcher, L McCullough, N Emsden.
Subs: C Pettis, S Hicks, S Morrison.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 5th February 2005

CIRENCESTER UTD RES 0
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 6

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to lowly Cirencester United Reserves knowing that they needed to win the game to keep the pressure on the other leading teams. With a goal keeping crisis within the team, leading scorer Alex Lynch donned the gloves and with Stuart Morrison unavailable Pettis returned to the side.

Wantage began with a purpose to their game and within the 1st minute they won a corner and from Austin’s kick Pettis deflected the ball into the net. Cirencester were under constant pressure with town opening the defence with good movement and Belcher was tormenting the home side. He beat three players before shooting over from close range, before he added the 2nd goal in 9 minutes when he shot through the keepers legs after another tricky run.

From the restart Wantage soon won back possession and the ball was played across the six-yard box and Hicks knocked in No 3. It was one way traffic as Wantage controlled the game and Lynch only had to claim a couple of crosses, which he did comfortably. Spittle had a shot well saved by Clatworthy the Cirencester keeper and McCullough could only deflect the ball over the bar from close range. McGowran hit a cracking volley from an Austin cross which struck a defender then Austin did well to reach a through ball, he rounded the keeper and as he prepared to knock the ball into the net the ball took a bobble and the chance was gone.

On 36 minutes Zielinski set up Hicks with a precise through ball, Hicks took the ball goalwards before slotting the ball past the keeper to make it 4 - 0. The first half continued with Town on the attack as they over ran the home side.

The second half saw the home side show more commitment as they battled to keep Wantage out. Spittle forced another fine save from Clatworthy as he turned the ball around the post. Then Broad had a shot from 30 yards, which went narrowly wide, and the keeper also denied McCullough. The game then became rather scrappy as the rain continued to fall and Town lost their shape as too many players pushed forward. Lynch made a good stop from a snap shot and Srawley tidied up the loose ball. Gilbert replaced Belcher who was suffering from a back strain and Town continued to press on without threatening the home goal until the 80th minute when Hicks played the ball out wide to Austin who drove the ball low into the net to make it 5 - 0. Within two minutes Pettis found himself in a one on one situation with Clatworthy and he calmly slotted the ball home to complete the scoring as Town won 6 - 0.

This was an easy victory built upon a great start to the game. Scoring 3 goals in the opening 10 minutes killed off the opposition and the game. The football was very one sided and Town began to play the ball forward too quickly. The final ball was sloppy at times and there should have been more goals scored. The defence was not unduly troubled in 90 minutes and McCullough had another impressive game. It was good to see Hicks and Pettis back on the score sheet again.

Team: A Lynch, T Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, C Pettis, P Spittle, T Austin, S Hicks, S Belcher, L McCullough, S McGowran.
Subs: S Gilbert, P Wilkins.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 29th January 2005

CARTERTON TOWN RES 0
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 2

Wantage Town reserves travelled to Carterton who had been unbeaten in the League until their midweek upset against lowly Highworth. With the sides having drawn at Wantage earlier in the season this was going to be a tough test for Town.

Carterton started well and dominated the opening minutes, shooting over the bar and Taylor was called upon to tip the ball over the bar. Wantage settled down and Lynch sent a warning header narrowly wide of the far post. The heavy pitch was preventing the close passing game and the long ball was used to good effect by both sides. McGowran had to replace Morrison who suffered a knee injury on the sticky mud but he settled into the roll immediately. Taylor saved well when left exposed at the back but the game changed in the 35 minute as Carterton were reduced to 10 men. After disputing an offside decision Mungall was shown a yellow card and despite being warned by both the referee, Mr Davies and his captain Cole the Carterton player continued to abuse the official and was shown a second yellow followed by a red card. Wantage began to use the ball better against the 10 men and Swann went close with a powerful header. On 41 minutes a long ball over the home defence saw Belcher shake off his marker before rounding the keeper Wainwright. The keeper had forced Belcher wide of the goal but he kept the ball in play, looked up and picked out McCullough bursting into the area with a crisp pass. McCullough rounded the recovering keeper and slotted home to make it 1-0. With half time approaching Belcher forced another save from Wainwright as Town took control.

The second half began with Carterton attacking as they fought for an instant reply but Taylor was in great form. When the home side did get in a decent cross, Perry could not test the keeper. Wantage began to use the ball better and Carterton were finding it hard to gain possession. On the hour Zielinski picked the ball up in his own half and the home side allowed him to carry the ball towards their goal when he reached a shooting position he hit a low shot which skipped past Wainwright, struck the left hand post before bouncing into the net off the right hand one. Hicks replaced Lynch who had worked hard on the heavy pitch and then Swann picked up a knock and was replaced by Pilling. Carterton pushed on but couldn’t break down Taylor’s well organised defence and Wantage looked dangerous on the counter attack but couldn’t create another clear chance. Belcher went close with a shot and McGowran had a shot blocked, Spittle kept the youngsters ticking and Town looked comfortable until the final minute when Taylor made a remarkable double save. Duerden broke free and ht a low shot which Taylor blocked but the ball continued to bounce towards the goal with the forward bearing down on it, the keeper recovered and dived towards his goal line and pulled the ball back into his grasp with feet to spare. So Taylor managed to keep a clean sheet as Wantage continued their impressive run.

This was another sound performance. The players played as a team and fought for each other. When the opposition became involved with the official, Town players kept out of it and concentrated on the game. Despite losing Morrison early on, McGowran came on and filled in and did a steady job.

Team: D Taylor, T Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, G Swann, S Morrison, T Austin, P Spittle, A Lynch, L McCullough, S Belcher.
Subs: S Hicks, C Pilling, S McGowran.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 22nd January 2005

WANTAGE TOWN RES 2
v
MILTON UTD RES 0

The local derby game was always going to be a tight affair with neither side wanting to give anything away. Town were at full strength, although Tom Srawley was away on County duties and Paul Belcher unavailable, they were replaced with new signings Dave Taylor and Lee Davies plus Pete Broad came in to strengthen the side.

The game began at a fast pace with Wantage taking the game to Milton. On 12 minutes McCullough turned well in the area and hit a good shot which Milton keeper, Hamling, tipped over the bar. Davies had a well struck shot well saved at the second attempt and Emsden also went close. When Emsden crossed the ball in from the left he picked out Lynch unmarked, his header was flying towards the top corner until an acrobatic save by Hamling saw the ball flicked onto the angle of post and bar before rebounding to safety. The first half ended with Town well on top but the score line remained 0 - 0.

Milton came out fighting at the start of the second half and after 50 minutes forced Taylor to make his first save of the game. Wantage responded with Morrison shooting over, returning poor clearance. Milton battled to keep Town out but their resistance was finally broken on 70 minutes by quick thinking Spittle. After being brought down he asked the referee for a quick free kick and knocked the ball through to McCullough who played a first time ball through to Emsden who drove the ball hard and low into the bottom corner of the net. Wantage piled on the pressure, Austin hit a fierce shot which beat the keeper and flashed wide of the goal, McCullough went close before Davies hit a drive across goal. Hicks replaced Lynch before Wantage took a 2 – 0 lead. Some neat interplay saw Emsden play a clever ball into McCullough who timed his run to perfection, beating the offside trap, he drew the keeper and slotted the ball into the net through his legs. McGowran replaced Austin for the remaining minutes as Town completed a well deserved victory.

This was a comfortable victory and Wantage dominated the match throughout. Milton defended well preventing too many clear goal scoring opportunities. Town kept playing controlled football, out passing and out battling their rivals.

Taylor looked comfortable in goal. He was well protected by Srawley, Zielinski and Broad in front of him. Morrison had an excellent game in the holding roll allowing Emsden and Spittle to control the game. With Davies strong on the right, Austin switched to the left and showed how versatile he has become. Lynch’s strength and McCullough’s movement proved to be a good balance up front whilst Hicks and McGowran slotted in well when introduced to the action.

Team: D Taylor, T Zielinski, P Broad, J Srawley, N Emsden, S Morrison, T Austin, P Spittle, A Lynch, L McCullough, L Davies.
Subs: C Pilling, S Hicks, S McGowran.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 15th January 2005

BINFIELD RES 2
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 3

With several regular reserve team players missing there was good news for the squad with Tim Zielinski, Nigel Emsden and Paul Spittle all available to play in the match at Binfield.

Wantage started brightly but were hit by a sucker punch when from their first attack the full back carried the ball 40 yards before crossing the ball deep into the town area. Belcher came for the cross but spilt the ball under a challenge and the loose ball ran to Hotson who turned it into the net to give the home side a 2nd minute lead. Town were not to be unsettled and kept playing their own close passing game. On 15 minutes good work down the right released Austin who crossed to the far post where McCullough arrived to side foot volley the ball over Hambeton into the top corner of the goal. Wantage continued to play the better football, a long throw by Zielinski was headed clear as far as Austin who volley the ball back across goal, narrowly wide of the far post. Town pushed forward looking for another goal but a long ball over the top of the defence caught them out. Belcher made a fine save but the loose ball ran to Hotson who scored his and Binfield’s second goal of the game.

From the restart Wantage went on the attack again. Emsden whipped in a cross which McGowran volleyed narrowly over the crossbar. On 36 minutes Spittle won a free kick on the left, he swung in a wicked free kick which took a slight touch off Emsden and finished up nestling in the bottom corner of the net. The half time score was 2 – 2.

The second half was not so open with both sides tightening up their game. Belcher, John Srawley, Zielinski and Morrison were better organised at the back whilst Town relied upon Lynch and McGowran to strike on the break. Both sides struggled to create clear opportunities, McGowran turned well and released Lynch who had a fierce drive turned around the post by the home keeper. Everything thrown at the Town defence was blocked and cleared, the team began to knock the ball around and win free kicks in dangerous positions. Emsden set up Tom Srawley but the ball took a bobble before he shot and the ball cleared the bar, then Lynch saw a low shot turned around the post. With 10 minutes remaining Gilbert replaced the tiring McGowran and with time running down Wantage took the lead. Austin played the ball to Gilbert who dummied the pass allowing Austin to break into the penalty area cut in and feed the ball across the goal to the unmarked Spittle who passed the ball into the empty net. Binfield pushed on for an equaliser and thought they had grabbed one until the referee spotted a raised flag from the linesman. After a consultation the goal was ruled out and Wantage kept out the home side for the lengthy spell of added on time.

This was another gritty performance where the side showed great character in coming from behind twice to claim another victory. After a couple of defensive lapses the back three and keeper worked hard to put things right. Spittle got to know the way Tom Srawley and McCullough play and soon they were controlling the midfield with Emsden and Austin joining in up and down the wings. Lynch did well against the big defenders and was well supported by McGowran and later on Gilbert. Wantage played the better football and deserved their victory.

Team: P Belcher, T Zielinski, N Emsden, J Srawley, P Spittle, S Morrison, T Austin, L McCullough, A Lynch, T Srawley, S McGowran.
Subs: S Gilbert, P Wilkins, D Broadis.

To see photos from the game click here

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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 8th January 2005

WANTAGE TOWN RES 0
v
WOOTTON BASSETT TOWN RES 3

Wantage began the new year with a side missing players from key areas. With Pilling unavailable, Hicks injured and Sam Belcher and Zielinski on First Team duties Wilkins was included in the starting line up.

Town started well but Bassett were sharper in the midfield area preventing the home side from settling into their stride. On 15 minutes McCullough was flagged offside when through on goal then Tom Srawley scuffed a shot wide after good work by Austin. On 22 minutes the visitors took the lead, Belcher saved well with his legs, the ball rebounded to Hyde who hooked the ball back over the keeper into the net beyond Morrison who was covering on the line. Wilkins went close with an over head kick and Tom Srawley had a shot comfortably saved after good build up play by North and Tucker. Before the break Wantage survived two close calls when Bassett failed to hit the target after defensive lapses.

The second half started with firstly Tucker firing into the side netting from a narrow angle, then Bassett won a corner after John Srawley diverted a shot around the post. From the resulting corner Belcher punched the ball to the edge of the box where Jones controlled the ball and fired the ball back into the net to make it 2-0. Wantage tried to apply pressure but Bassett looked well organised, Pettis had a close range shot blocked by Negus in the visitors’ goal. Gilbert replaced Wilkins for the final 20 minutes as they looked for a way back into the game. Although Tom Srawley and Pettis had further chances Wantage never looked like breaking down the Bassett defence and the visitors looked dangerous on the break. In the final minute Bassett made it 3-0 when Phillips struck a stinging shot into the roof of the net from 25 yards.

The Wantage side were a shadow of their usual selves. The defence kept going well but the midfield players were out played. Liam McCullough had a splendid game, he worked very hard battling throughout, a little too hard at times as he earned himself a yellow card from Mr Reed, who had a very good match. For the forwards it was a game of little opportunity as Bassett worked hard and had the rub of the green.

On the day the better side won the match.

Team: P Belcher, A Lynch, T North, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, L McCullough, S Tucker, T Srawley, P Wilkins.
Subs: S Gilbert, G Austin, D Broadis.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Tuesday 28th December 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 4
v
HENLEY TOWN RES 0

Wantage Town Reserves continued their winning run with a victory over Henley Town Reserves. Although the score line suggests an easy win, it certainly wasn’t and yet there could have been more goals scored.

Wantage were quick to settle, with Tom Srawley and Liam McCullough linking well in midfield. On 5 minutes Lynch was set clear of the defence but his attempted curling shot went wide of the far post. With Henley holding a high defensive line Wantage exposed their lack of speed at the back and when Tom Srawley and McCullough combined to set Lynch clear again he held of the defenders challenge to slot home the opening goal of the game. The visitors to their credit passed the ball well but found the bank of five midfielders and three defenders too much of a barrier to break down. Then Tom Srawley nicked the ball away from a defender and sent Lynch on his way again, the covering defenders challenge was late and the shot from Lynch was on its way into the net before the tackle came in. Before the restart Wantage were forced to introduce North as a replacement for Hicks who had a reoccurrence of his hamstring injury. Both sides battled away until half time with neither defence giving anything away.

The home side kept up the pressure after the break, kicking towards the clubhouse end. Sam Belcher was playing alongside Lynch in an attacking role, shutting down the visitors deep in their own half. It wasn’t long before he latched onto a loose pass and ran on to slot home past Gosby, the Henley keeper, to make it 3 - 0. Belcher almost added another but shot straight at Gosby who was well positioned for the shot. Although Henley kept playing football they could not prevent the waves of attacking football from the home side. The fourth goal was hotly disputed by the visitors when it came. North crossed the ball in from the left, Lynch flicked the ball on to Belcher who hit a ferocious drive which was well saved by Gosby but the ball ran to Lynch who drove home his third goal of the game. The linesman raised his flag against Belcher but the referee Mr Cox signalled the goal would stand. Hedges replaced McCullough who was feeling unwell, with 20 minutes remaining, he held the ball up and his passing was accurate in spreading the play. Gosby was again to deny Belcher with a splendid save when he pushed the ball over the ball from close range. The match ended 4 – 0 to Wantage but Henley had played their part in an entertaining game which was well handled by referee Mr Peter Cox.

Wantage continued their winning run with an all round sound performance. Paul Belcher continued on his return to full fitness with a faultless display. The back three gave nothing away all afternoon, the midfield continued to impress with hard work and by shutting down the opposition early. Lynchy and whether it was Sam Belcher or Hicksy worked hard and took their chances when they arose.

Team: P Belcher, C Pilling, S Belcher, J Srawley, C Pettis, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, A Lynch, T Srawley, L McCullough.
Subs: L Hedges, T North, P Wilkins.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 18th December 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 1
v
CHELTENHAM SARACENS RES 0

Wantage Town reserves kept up their good run of results with a hard fought victory over Cheltenham Saracens at Alfredian Park on Saturday. With Pilling unavailable and Zielinski with the First team the side had to reshuffle. Cup tied Matty Allen and Tom Austin were both included in the line up on opposite wings, whilst John Srawley was joined in the back three by Lynch and Morrison, Paul Broadis joined Hicks in an attacking roll. This left the central midfield area to be run by Pettis, Tom Srawley and McCullough.

The first half was evenly contested, as early as the 6th minute a Saracens defender headed a goal bound effort off the line as Town started full of running but the quality was lacking on a heavy pitch. On 22 minutes a quick break down the right saw Cheltenham create a good chance but the shot was wide of the far post. In a midfield challenge McCullough fell awkwardly damaging his shoulder but he bravely continued to play on. John Srawley played a good ball out of defence, Austin, McCullough and Tom Srawley combined well to set up Hicks but his lob over the keeper went narrowly wide of the goal. Wantage kept the pressure on and on 40 minutes they took the lead. Pettis challenged the visiting keeper for the ball from a corner kick and the ball fell to Hicks who found the net from close range. Cheltenham defended well and managed to keep the score 1 – 0 at the interval.

The second half took on a different pattern with the visitor pegging Town back. On the hour a Cheltenham corner was charged down and the ball deflected wide of the goal then Austin was in the right place to head the ball off his own goal line. Belcher used all his experience to organise his defenders, encouraging them and helping them out with safe handling around the box. North replaced McCullough who was still feeling pain from his earlier fall then Gilbert had to replace Hicks who had a hamstring injury. Saracens used their substitutes to push more men forward as they searched for an equaliser but still Wantage shut them out and looked to strike on the break.

With 10 minutes left Wantage welcomed back McGowran to replace the exhausted Broadis in an attacking roll, the fresh legs proved to be thorn in the visitor’s side. In the 85th minute McGowran worked the ball to Allen who danced his way into the penalty area and was upended by a defender. Pettis was called upon to take the spot kick but his effort was saved by Elliot in the Cheltenham goal who then kicked the ball down the pitch clear of the home defence, the striker got his shot away and only an excellent, full stretch save by Belcher saved Pettis his blushes. Town dug deep and defended the lead for the remaining minutes to keep up the impressive run of results.

This was a gritty performance. It was the defensive performance which deserves praise. The forwards burnt themselves out working to shut the ball down and the wide men tracked up and down for the team. Pettis, McCullough and Tom Srawley tackled well in difficult conditions. John Srawley organised Lynch and Morrison well, reducing the visitors to only one clear chance and that was when Belcher showed his true value to the side with a perfect save.

Team: P Belcher, A Lynch, S Morrison, J Srawley, C Pettis, T Austin, M Allen, S Hicks, P Broadis, T Srawley, L McCullough.
Subs: T North, S Gilbert, S McGowran.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Tuesday 14th December 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 3
v
CIRENCESTER UTD RES 1

Wantage Town Reserves faced a strong Cirencester United side at Alfredian Park. After suffering a heavy defeat on Saturday they travelled with a number of First Team players to bolster their line up.

Wantage Reserves are now playing with a new found confidence and showed little nerves against the strong opposition team. Lynch went close early on then McCullough hit a low shot which was well saved by the visiting keeper. Cirencester were strong in midfield and used the ball well but they never looked like troubling the Wantage goal. McCullough brought another fine save from the Cirencester keeper before Wantage finally took the lead on the half hour. Emsden won a corner on the left and took the kick himself, the ball was headed down by Zielinski and Pettis controlled it before rifling it into the roof of the net. Wantage continued to control the game kicking up hill until the half time whistle.

The second half was only seconds old when Hicks won the ball and played it to McCullough, the two exchanged passes with Hicks back healing the ball through to McCullough whose shot was deflected past the keeper into the net. Town kept up the pressure but on the hour the visitors broke down the right and Belcher was beaten to the ball outside the area and the forward scored from a narrow angle to make it 2-1. It was Wantage who then upped their game creating chance after chance. Lynch, Hicks and Emsden all squandered good opportunities and Hicks also hit a post with only the keeper to beat. Town were almost made to pay for the poor finishing when the visitors broke clear again but this time Belcher came out on top with a great block followed up with a brave save at the forwards feet.

The pressure finally paid off in the 85th minute when Hicks was put through once more and this time he lifted the ball over the advancing keeper into the unguarded net to make it 3-1. Hedges replaced Lynch who had run himself into the ground for the second time in four days. Town continued to press but the final score remained 3-1.

After dominating the match, Town would have run out easy winners but for a string of missed opportunities. It would have been a great injustice if Town had not won but its goals that count not chances. The quality of football was again of a high standard. The Cirencester Utd Manager praised the club by saying how well Wantage Town are set up by fielding two quality sides for a mid week fixture.

Team: P Belcher, C Pilling, S Morrison, J Srawley, T Zielinski, C Pettis, N Emsden, S Hicks, A Lynch, T Srawley, L McCullough.
Subs: L Hedges, P Wilkins, D Broadis.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 11th December 2004

DIDCOT TOWN RES 2
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 2

This was a typical local derby game between two footballing sides on a superb pitch. Wantage Town in sixth position in the league were ready to face the league leaders Didcot, on the back of a 5 – 0 mid week victory over Kidlington.

Both sides began by passing the ball around, testing each other for any possible weaknesses. As early as the 2nd minute Lynch, playing in an attacking role, earned a free kick on the edge of the Didcot penalty area. From the kick Pettis sent the ball dipping over the cross bar. Then it was Paul Belcher in the Wantage goal who saved well from a close range header, holding the ball close to his body whilst under pressure from the incoming forwards. Wantage could have taken the lead when the ball was worked out wide to Austin on the right, his cross was blocked and the ball ran to Hicks whose instant shot went narrowly wide. Then Hicks had another good opportunity when McCullough and Pettis exchanged passes and McCullough laid the ball into Hicks path but he sliced his effort wide of the post. Straight away Didcot attacked the Wantage goal but this time it was a home side attacker who shot wide of the mark.

Then on 44 minutes Didcot were awarded a disputed penalty kick. A free kick from the Didcot half was pumped towards the Wantage penalty area, the ball missed everyone and the ball bounced off the pitch wide of the goal, but whilst the ball was in flight the referee Mr Moore blew his whistle. To the amazement of everyone in the ground he had awarded a penalty kick. Didcot captain, Dorrian converted the kick but the home sides celebration was somewhat muted, still embarrassed by the officials decision.

Wantage were fired up by the injustice of the decision and replied in the final minute of the half in the best possible way. A free kick was awarded wide on the left wing and Austin sent in an inch perfect cross which Pettis met with his head before keeper Spurrett, and he guided the ball into the net. So the game was all square at half time.

The second half was only 12 minutes old when the Wantage midfielders McCullough and Tom Srawley opened up the home defence releasing Hicks through on goal, as he ran into the box he was clearly tripped by his marker but the referee turned down the appeal. As the ball was cleared Hicks made a remark to the referee which resulted in him being shown a red card and he was dismissed from the field of play.

Down to ten men, Wantage continued to match the league leaders and McCullough turned well and watched his shot run narrowly wide of the far post, and then on 65 minutes they took the lead. Morrison clipped the ball over the defence and Tom Srawley ran through and lifted the ball over the advancing keeper into the net. Didcot then pushed forward for an equaliser but the Wantage defence stood firm, defending from the front, Lynch worked hard for the side and John Srawley, Pilling and Zielinski kept the home forwards at bay. Lynch managed to break clear of the home defence and as he attempted to round the keeper he appeared to be upended but again the referee turned down the appeal. Hedges replaced the exhausted Lynch for the final 10 minutes. With the game running into injury time Didcot did manage to grab the equaliser, Cooper held off Pettis and laid the ball back to Dorrian and he hit a rocket shot past Belcher into the net.

Both sides left the field feeling they worked hard for a well earned point in an evenly contested match. Didcot must have been relieved to grab a point at the death and Wantage disappointed at not being able to hold on but relieved that the ten men had not been over run in the later stages of the game. This was surely one of the best reserve team matches of the season. The Wantage Managers were so proud of the team for putting on such a great battling performance and every player again played a major part in a superb team performance.

Team: P Belcher, C Pilling, S Morrison, J Srawley, T Zielinski, C Pettis, T Austin, S Hicks, A Lynch, T Srawley, L McCullough.
Subs: L Hedges, S Gilbert, P Wilkins.
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GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Tuesday 7th December 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 5
v
KIDLINGTON RES 0

Wantage Town reserves faced Kidlington on a foggy night at Alfredian Park. With the First team playing the following evening, the only changes from Saturday’s squad were the loss of Pete Broad and Paul Belcher but Tom Srawley was welcomed back along with Steve Hale taking over between the sticks.

The game began with Wantage playing at a high tempo, working hard to shut down the opposition in every department. The midfield of Austin, Pettis, McCullough, Tom Srawley and Morrison worked together, shutting down the space and with the movement of Belcher and Hicks upfront the visitors could not settle down. Town opened the scoring on 16 minutes, Tom Srawley picked up the ball in the Kidlington half, as his team mates moved off the ball, he carried the ball forward and hit a cracking right foot shot into the top corner of the net.

The shutting down in Kidlington’s half paid off again when Austin nicked the ball and Belcher cut in from the right hand side of the box and struck a low shot which Martin in the visitors goal saved well but the ball rebounded off a defender into the net. Kidlington could not break down the home defence, Lynch, John Srawley and Zielinski were defending Hales goal superbly.

Inside 30 minutes it was 3-0 when the lively McCullough took the ball on his chest and lobbed the ball over a defender and the keeper sending the ball into the net off the underside of the bar. Hale was called upon to make a solid block on a close range shot before Town scored the goal of the match.

The ball was passed around swiftly and accurately, one touch football between Belcher, McCullough, Tom Srawley, Pettis and Austin before the ball was crossed to Belcher who struck a powerful left foot shot on the half volley which left Martin stranded. Kidlington were shell shocked and when Hicks celebrated his 29th birthday with a fifth goal on the stroke of half time the game was over as a contest.

The half time team talk demanded a steady, controlled second period ensuring a clean sheet and the three points. Town came out and played some good possession football. Pilling replaced John Srawley on 55 minutes, then Lynch made a spectacular goal line clearance when Hale was beaten to a cross by Pearson, that apart Wantage were in complete control. Hedges replaced Pettis and young Gilbert replaced Morrison for the final 15 minutes. With everyone wanting the ball and keeping the passing going the result was never in doubt.

This performance was a joy to watch. Kidlington could not contain McCullough and his link up play with the others was neat and simple. Tom Srawley was back to his best form and with Belcher hitting the net along with Hicks the attacking side of the team was superb. That said it was a solid defensive display by Lynch, J Srawley, Pilling and captain Zielinski, with Pettis doing a clever job sitting in front of them.
Hale also commanded him area well and encouraged the youngsters in the side.

Team: S Hale, S Morrison, A Lynch, J Srawley, T Zielinski, C Pettis, T Austin, S Hicks, S Belcher, T Srawley, L McCullough.
Subs: C Pilling L Hedges, S Gilbert.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 4th December 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 1
v
FINCHAMPSTEAD RES 3

After a break of four weeks Town returned to action in a tough fixture against Finchampstead at Alfredian Park. With several players now available to team would be at full strength.

The game started well for town with Broad heading on a Zielinski throw in for Sam Belcher to shoot narrowly over. The next opportunity fell to Finchampstead with Hobbs shooting over as Paul Belcher narrowed the angle for the shot. Broad hit a right foot shot which was tipped around the post by Giles in the visitors goal, then from the corner Broad rose well but couldn’t direct his header on target.

Finchampstead then enjoyed their best spell in the game, on 19 minutes they created an opening but the weighted pass went narrowly wide, then on 22 minutes they took the lead. A corner was cleared back to the taker, his second ball in found Hobbs on the edge to the area and his volley flashed past Paul Belcher into the net. Town responded well, Hicks and Sam Belcher linked up and Belcher shot just over the bar, then Morrison broke from midfield and when tackled the ball fell to Belcher who curled a shot towards the top corner but Giles reacted well, pushing the ball around the post. From the resulting corner Lynch was left unmarked on the far post, he brought the ball down but flashed his shot wide of the far post.

On the half hour Wantage should have levelled the score, Hicks challenged the keeper, the ball fell to Sam Belcher who drove his shot goal wards but a defender flung himself at the ball blocking the certain goal. Finchampstead were quicker to every loose and second ball and Town were defending well until a mad five minutes. Firstly a poor clearance was picked up by Jaegger in the centre circle, he moved forward evading two challenges before shooting under Paul Belcher to make it 2 - 0. Then as Town pushed forward a long ball was played down the middle of the pitch, Parsons beat Srawley to the ball and ran through unchallenged to beat Belcher in a 1 on 1 situation.

Wantage looked dangerous from set piece restarts and on the stroke of half time an Austin corner kick was met on the far post by Morrison who side footed home the ball to make it 3 - 1 at the break.

The second half was full of end to end action. Paul Belcher made a brilliant double save to keep the score line 3 - 1 then Broad hit a shot over from distance. Lynch was pushed up front in an attempt to unsettle the visitors and it nearly paid off with a header which went inches wide of the far post. McCullough, Hedges and Gilbert replaced Lynch, Pilling and Hicks as Wantage tried to get back into the game. McCullough worked himself an opportunity only to see his shot blocked and then Hedges turned well on the edge of the box but Giles saved well pushing the ball over the bar. At the final whistle the score remained 3 - 1 to the visitors.

Wantage played well in phases and created a host of chances but Finchampstead were a well organised side who defended well blocking numerous shots and those which got through were well saved by their keeper. Two poor goals conceded through exposed defensive positions cost us dearly. Although disappointed by the result the team performed well against one of the best sides we have faced this season.

Team: P Belcher, C Pilling, A Lynch, J Srawley, T Zielinski, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, S Belcher, C Pettis, P Broad.
Subs: L McCullough L Hedges, S Gilbert.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 6th November 2004

HIGHWORTH TOWN RES 4
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 3

With several first choice players unavailable for various reasons, Wantage travelled to Highworth expecting a tough match, they set out to play in a 3-5-2 formation.

The Highworth pitch was in pretty good condition considering the amount of rain which had fallen during the week.

Highworth started well, keeping possession, stringing together a number of passes before Wantage managed a touch of the ball. This gave the home side a great deal of confidence. After this the game levelled out, both sides battling for the ball and possession being wasted especially by Wantage. Wantage took the lead midway through the first half when Stott managed to steal the ball in midfield, the ball ran to Lynch who turned away from his marker and drove the ball low into the net from 20 yards. Highworth continued to out-pass Wantage and just before half time they levelled the score with a free header finding the net from a right wing corner.

Wantage came out fighting, kicking down the slope they penned the home side back and within five minutes Morrison fed Hicks who hit a first time shot into the net off the left hand post. North replaced Hedges and he set about supporting the forwards.

As Highworth began to knock the ball around Wantage fell back into a flat back four formation. The decision to defend proved to be poor as Highworth scored to good goals through weak defending. An unchallenged shot from wide on their left wing sailed over the defence and the keeper, Evans to level the scores at 2-2 then after two superb blocks by Evans Highworth turned the ball into the Wantage net as the defence stood motionless. It seemed Highworth would run away with the game but good pressure from Hicks and Lynch saw Lynch hit home another fierce shot to level for Wantage with 5 minutes remaining. Instead of playing out the remaining minutes by organising themselves for the final Highworth charge Wantage were pulled apart and a right wing cross was headed into the net from close range unchallenged at the far post.

This was a poor result for Wantage. The performance was not impressive and the attitude of the side was wrong. The players knew the side was under-strength, lacking a natural left sided player we set out to play 3-5-2. The decision by the team to revert to 4-4-2 allowed Highworth to attack us down the weak side and gave them the initiatives they needed to gain their first win of the season.

Team: H Evans, C Pilling, M Rawlins, J Srawley, T Zielinski, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, A Lynch, J Stott, L Hedges.
Subs: T North, P Wilkins.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Tuesday 26th October 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 4
v
ABINGDON UTD RES 1

Wantage were up for this game, with first teamers Steve Tucker, Ritchie Claydon, Robbie Fairchild, and Sam Belcher in the starting line up. Player / Coach Steve Hale was also starting between the posts. The only problem was the non appearance of the allocated official, resulting in a late kick off and a local referee having to take control.

Wantage began well with Claydon having a shot well saved and Tom Srawley followed up only to see his effort deflected off target for a corner. Wantage were playing some good possession football. Claydon laid the ball back to Tom Srawley who released Belcher with a first time pass, belcher chipped the ball over the keeper but the ball sailed just over the bar. The Abingdon defence were handing out some rough treatment to Belcher and on 18 minutes he was brought down in a dangerous position. Fairchild lined up the free kick and sent the ball over the wall and into the net past the despairing hand of the keeper. Tucker was holding the ball up well causing the visiting defenders problems and bringing his team mates into the game. In one move Tucker slid the ball into the near post where Claydon arrived and sent his shot goal wards only to see the ball turned around the post.

The second half started as the first had ended with Wantage on top. On the hour mark Town increased their lead when Austin laid the ball back to Tom Srawley who whipped the ball into the danger area between keeper and defender and Tucker reacted first sending the ball high into the net from close range. It could have been worse for the visitors, within minutes a clever Fairchild free kick was met by Claydon but his instinctive shot went narrowly over the bar. Abingdon made changes and got themselves back into the game. John Srawley misjudged a high ball and allowed a forward to break clear, he pulled the ball back and his team mate made it 2-1. United then had a good opportunity to level but the chance was not taken and Town made them pay with two goals in two minutes. Firstly Austin had a corner returned to him, he cut in and his second ball into the area finished in the back of the Abingdon net. From the restart town regained possession and a smart move between Fairchild and Claydon saw Fairchild free inside the box and he made no mistake in beating the keeper. Broad replaced Pilling as Town tightened their defence, then Hicks and McGowran came on for Belcher and Fairchild as the home side played out the final minutes.

Wantage Town played well in patches but didn’t make their possession tell. There were steady performances from Morrison, Austin and Tucker with Tom Srawley and Robbie Fairchild catching the eye with some neat attacking football. Ritchie Claydon worked hard without getting on the score sheet but his all round game was good. The defence looked indecisive in dealing with high balls; it wasn’t until late in the game that Lynch showed his strength in the air. This time we took our chances well but we cannot afford to be hesitant at the back.

Team: S Hale, A Lynch, C Pilling, J Srawley, S Morrison, R Fairchild, T Austin, T Srawley, S Tucker, R Claydon, S Belcher.
Subs: S Hicks, S McGowran, P Broad.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

BERKS & BUCKS INTERMEDIATE CUP

Saturday 16th October 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 0
v
KINTBURY RANGERS 2 (aet)

Wantage Town Reserves faced tough opposition, in the form of Kintbury Rangers, the leaders of Hellenic League Division One East.
Kintbury started the match well and only two fine saves from Huw Evans kept Town in the game. Then Town began to work their way back into the game by working hard and shutting down the visitors in every area of the field. Town lost Tim Zielinski after 25 minutes as his flu symptoms prevented him from breathing clearly. McGowran came on to play on the left and Morrison slotted in at the back alongside John Srawley. This allowed Broadis to move into the centre alongside Tom Srawley. Kintbury kept up the pressure but the home defence stood firm, blocking shots and Evans held every thing thrown at him in the wet conditions.

The second half had Wantage kicking towards the clubhouse end. Pilling replaced the injured Rawlings during the interval as Town set about causing a cup upset. Both sides battled hard creating good opportunities, Fairchild went close with a near post header from a Broadis corner whilst Drake and Masopust threatened the Town goal. On 70 minutes Evans saved well at the feet of Drake in a one on one situation, then with 85 minutes gone Fairchild broke down the right and pulled the ball back to Hicks who fired over and the chance was gone. Hedges replaced Fairchild as the final minute approached and Kintbury carved out another good chance but the goal bound header was somehow turned over the bar by Evans at full stretch. The score line was level after 90 minutes and extra time was necessary.
Both sides continued to play good football in heavy conditions and with 8 minutes of extra time played Kintbury broke the deadlock. Good build up play resulted in the visitors having a man over on the edge of the penalty box and when Lachacz received the ball and he beat Evans with a low shot in the bottom corner. Wantage battled on but with 10 minutes remaining the tie was put beyond Town with a second Kintbury goal from Drake after a goalmouth scramble. Even after the second goal both sides continued to play football and create chances until the final whistle.

Although Town lost the game they played their part in an extremely exciting cup tie. Every player, from both sides and the officials helped to make it so. The Wantage players were on the top of their game for the full 120 minutes in heavy conditions, working as a team and supporting each other all over the pitch. Huw Evans was in superb form but he was well supported by all the other 13 players involved.

It’s back to league action at home to Cirencester Utd Reserves; we shall have to see if we have the bouncebackability to return to winning ways.

Team: H Evans, A Lynch, M Rawlins, J Srawley, T Zielinski, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, R Fairchild, T Srawley, P Broadis.
Subs: C Pilling, L Hedges, S McGowran.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 9th October 2004

HENLEY TOWN RES 0
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 3

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to Henley Town with a strong squad, looking to extend their unbeaten run. The side was strengthened by the inclusion of new signing Tim Zielinski and Robbie Fairchild who was playing is first league game since he signed during the summer after suffering a knee injury in pre season.

Wantage began strongly with the back four of Lynch, John Srawley, Zielinski and Rawlins looking solid and composed in front of Evans, playing in goal. On 16 minutes Fairchild broke down the right and crossed the ball to the near post where Broadis hit a volley which struck the keeper, Jenkins on the head and deflected around the post for a corner. Wantage kept the pressure on and on 18 minutes Zielinski played a 1 – 2 with Broadis and struck a rasping drive which beat Jenkins but rebounded off the cross bar. Before the keeper could readjust Austin smashed the ball back into the net from 20 yards out. Wantage were playing some good football, the forward play by both Fairchild and Hicks was well supported by Broadis, Austin and Tom Srawley, whilst Morrison was steady in the centre of midfield. On 24 minutes Broadis delivered an inch perfect corner for Lynch to meet with a powerful header and the ball finished up in the top corner of the Henley goal. Then Wantage eased off allowing the home side to get back into the game, gaining a couple of corners where they had free headers, both wide of the target.

The second half saw Henley come out and play some more controlled football but they never looked like breaking down the Wantage defence. Fairchild took a knock to his knee and was replaced by McGowran as a precautionary measure. Then Zielinski was injured in a collision with Lucas of Henley and Evans his own keeper. After treatment all three players continued the game. The football between Austin, Tom Srawley and McGowran was neat and tidy and Hicks thought he had extended the Wantage lead when he nipped in and flicked the ball over Jenkins but he was flagged offside. He didn’t have to wait too much longer to open his account, he was played in by McGowran and he finished well with a low shot across the keeper. Hedges replaced Zielinski who was still feeling the effects of his earlier collision. Henley managed one more shot which beat Evans but the ball rebounded to safety off the crossbar, Wantage finished the stronger and the final score remained 3 – 0.

This was probably the best performance of the season so far. Fairchild looked lively up front and Hicks broke his goal scoring duck in his first start up front. McGowran also did well when he replaced Fairchild. Zielinski added organisation to the defence, this helped J Srawley, Lynch and Rawlins to steady their own games. Austin and Broadis both looked to attack from the wide positions allowing T Srawley to push on and support the forwards whilst Morrison played the defensive role. Evans looked more assured in his performance and did well in the air.

The choice of pass, the delivery of pass was much better and the movement off the ball caused the home side problems all afternoon and Wantage thoroughly deserved the victory.

Team: H Evans, A Lynch, M Rawlins, J Srawley, T Zielinski, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, R Fairchild, T Srawley, P Broadis.
Subs: S McGowran, L Hedges, P Wilkins.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 2nd October 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 2
v
CARTERTON TOWN RES 2

Visitors Carterton came to Wantage unbeaten in Reserve Division 1 after two victories and two drawn matches. The opening 20 minutes were scrappy with little passing football being played by either side. It took until the 25th minute before Wantage had a shot on target, when McCullough had a shot turned around the post. Carterton hit back immediately, a long ball over the top appeared to be safe with Evans but his kicked clearance struck John Srawley and the ball fell kindly to Smales who rolled the ball into an empty net. The goal kick started Wantage into action. Within 2 minutes they were level when Austin broke down the right wing and his cross was met in the volley by Belcher, the ball flashed into the top corner of the goal rattling the stanchion. The game swayed from end to end, Lynch headed a cross to safety after John Srawley slipped, then King hit a 30 yard shot narrowly wide, McCullough shot over from range after good link up play and on the stroke of half time Carterton had a good chance which came to nothing.

Wantage started the second half on the attack. Austin crossed and the ball went narrowly wide, then Morrison hit a 25 yard shot which rebounded back of the bar with Boulter, the visiting keeper well beaten. Tom Srawley replaced Hicks in the centre of midfield, then Town had a goal ruled out for offside. Carterton then went close again shooting over, in front of goal. Wantage took the lead just after the hour mark when Morrison’s long ball out of defence was struck on the run by Belcher and the ball rocketed past Boulter. The lead didn’t last for long, Carterton won the ball in the centre of the pitch and the ball was played through for Gulliver to run through unchallenged to beat Evans with a low shot. Edmunds and Hedges replaced McCullough and McGowran for the final stages as Wantage looked for the win. Both sides had opportunities to take all three points. Boulter tipped over a clever chip by Tom Srawley, Austin blazed over from close range after good work by Belcher and with the final chance of the match falling to Carterton they could have snatched all three points.

This was a disappointing team performance; we worked hard without the cutting edge. Town created many clear cut chances but failed to make them count. Several players seemed out of sorts. We were unfortunate in the way we conceded the opening goal but it could have been avoided. If it hadn’t been for two superb strikes from Sam Belcher it would have been far worse. Carterton will also feel they could have taken all three points as they looked dangerous with every attack. So at the end of the day, a share of the spoils will be acceptable to both sides.

Congratulations to the referee Mr Kevin Turnbull, he handled the game well, speaking to players and avoiding unnecessary bookings and explaining his decisions when they were called into question, by both players and Managers.

Team: H Evans, C Pilling, M Rawlins, J Srawley, A Lynch, S Morrison, T Austin, S Hicks, L McCullough, S Belcher, S McGowran.
Subs: T Srawley, L Hedges, A Edmunds.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 25th September 2004

CHELTENHAM SARACENS RES 0
v
WANTAGE TOWN RES 1

Wantage Town Reserves travelled to Cheltenham with several of the previous weeks players unavailable but with a new found confidence after last weeks victory. The returning players were eager to prove their right for a place in the team.

With the team selection being a concern Alex Lynch was shifted into the centre of defence along side John Srawley and Stuart Morrison dropped in at right back, Mark Rawlins filling the left back position. Tom Austin and Simon Hicks were drafted into midfield along side Tom North and Shane McGowran. Liam McCullough was back to play up front supported by a Sam Belcher who was still recovering from illness.

Wantage were fast out of the blocks and dominated the opening 30 minutes. Austin headed wide after good wing play by McGowran, then Austin was well blocked when he again slipped into the box on to a through ball. A free kick by North was well met by the head of Hicks but the ball flashed wide of the post. The link up play was superb to watch, Morrison fed Austin down the right wing, his cross was headed down by McCullough to Belcher but his shot was charged down.

On 34 minutes a header by Lynch was tipped over by the home keeper Sedden, as McCullough challenged. From the resulting corner Lynch rose again at the far post and looped his header back over the keeper into the net. It was only then that Cheltenham threatened the Town goal but the headed chance was well wide of Huw Evans post.

The second half opened with McCullough curling a shot goal wards which was well held by Sedden then Cheltenham began to claw their way back into the game. The Town defence stood firm as Cheltenham began to play better football but Town always looked dangerous on the break. Lee Hedges replaced Belcher on the hour and he held the ball up well causing the home defence another problem with his strength, this allowed McCullough more space. Although the home side attacked more in the second half they never forced Evans into action as he had a relatively quiet afternoon.

This was another tremendous team performance; every player did their own job and worked together as a team. The interplay between the youngsters was exciting to watch, the only criticism I have is that we are not scoring when on top. We cannot afford to miss chances against the better sides. They will not miss chances against us!

Team: H Evans, S Morrison, M Rawlins, J Srawley, A Lynch, T North, T Austin, S Hicks, L McCullough, S Belcher, S McGowran.
Subs: L Hedges, P Wilkins.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 18th September 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 1
v
HUNGERFORD TOWN RES 0

Wantage Town Reserve team got their season back on track with a deserved victory over local neighbours Hungerford Town Reserves.

With the team selection being a major concern on Saturday morning, Alex Lynch was contacted at Heathrow as he touched down from America and he travelled back to the ground to lead the forward line with Simon Hicks.

Pete Broad slotted in at the back with John Srawley to settle the defence which had shipped 6 goals in the previous 2 games. With Chris Pilling and Mark Rawlins settling in as full backs there was more for Huw Evans to shout about between the sticks. The midfield was packed with young but hard working Paul Broadis, Stuart Morrison, Tom North and Shane McGowran. As a team they gelled well, battling for every ball and creating chances against a well drilled Hungerford side.

The only goal of the match came just before half time when Broadis turned well inside the box, he cut along the dead ball line before laying the ball back to North who drove the ball low into the net.

This was a tremendous team performance, every player did their own job but at last they worked together as a team, looking out for one another. At last we had that little bit of luck we needed as Hungerford missed a couple of good opportunities to level but Evans was not called upon to make a save.

Team: H Evans, M Rawlins, C Pilling, J Srawley, P Broad, S Morrison, T North, P Broadis, S Hicks, A Lynch, S McGowran.
Subs: L Hedges, P Wilkins.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GLS FOOTBALL HELLENIC LEAGUE - RESERVE DIVISION 1

Saturday 11th September 2004

WANTAGE TOWN RES 2
v
NORTH LEIGH RES 3

Wantage started the game kicking into a stiff wind and almost conceded a goal in the opening minute when a stray pass from Rawlins was intercepted and the forward wasted the opening. Town responded well, McGowran crossed and Broadis sent a header narrowly wide and McCullough was sent clear but the visiting keeper saved well at his feet. On 22 minutes North broke free with support but shot over rather than squared the ball to an unmarked McCullough. This proved to be costly as North Leigh got back into the game. Firstly a long range free kick struck the bar then Evans spilt another shot and the loose ball was bundled into the Town net. Within minutes it was 2-0 when a near post header was turned into the net from a left wing corner. Wantage continued to pass the ball well and Belcher went close, shooting over just before half time.

The second half was scrappy and North Leigh increased their lead with a deflected shot which left Evans flat footed. Town when upped their game driven on by Swann. He had a free header which cleared the bar and chance after chance went begging. There were some strange refereeing decisions which went against the home side and with 15 minutes Hedges replaced McGowran as Town tried to get something out of the game. Wantage reduced the deficit when Morrison returned the ball into the area from a corner and Belcher turn the ball into the net. Then Hedges brought a fine save from the visiting keeper, tipping the ball over the bar from a well directed header. It was all Town at this stage, Swann headed wide from an Austin corner before Hedges flicked the ball home from another goalmouth scramble to make it 2-3. North Leigh should have made it 4-2 as Wantage pushed for an equaliser, the forwards broke away but Pilling did enough to hurry the man on