​Milton United are now the only unbeaten team in the league after Penn & Tylers Green went down 4-0 to a rampant Woodley United team. There was defeat again for the Goats as Milton scored four to stay on top of the pile. Eversley v Kidlington fell foul of the weather and, in the cup, Carterton's recent revival hit the buffers as they lost at Long Crendon. Next week most teams are back in Cup action with just one league fixture on the cards.

Results from Sunday 27th November

Caversham United 1-4 Milton United
Mapeldurham is certainly not a fortress for The Goats this season. Sunday's result was the third defeat in a row at home with 15 goals conceded and only 2 scored. Freya Jenkins came off the bench to get Caversham back in the game at 2-1 but goals from Zoe Barnes(2), Mollie Dyer and Holly Porter were enough to keep unbeaten Milton on top of the league and give them a five point cushion over Woodley United.

Eversley & California P-P Kidlington
Once again Eversley's game fell foul of the horrendous downpours over the last few days.

Woodley United 4-0 Penn & Tylers Green
Woodley ended Penn & Tylers Green's unbeaten start to the season in some style. May Hamblin moved joint top of the scorers table with her two goals. Gemma Sims and Michelle Quinn weighed in with a goal each to complete a fantastic day for United. Not only did Woodley score four but they also managed to keep one the most lethal front-lines in the league quiet. Some achievement. You can catch up on the Woodley view of the game on their web site and, of course, the fantastic Oakmist Photography captured the action on camera for us all to enjoy.

Cup
Long Crendon 5-0 Carterton
Carterton's recent upturn in fortunes took a knock as they crashed out of the cup at the hands of Long Crendon. It's now four without defeat in all competitions for Long Crendon. Goals from Emma Leith(2), Sam Bignall, Eleanor Lovelock and Sarah Harrison saw the Greens through to the next round of the cup at the expense of Carterton.

Next week's fixtures (Sunday December 4th). All games ko at 14:00

League
Carterton v Eversley & California
I guess this one has to get the tag "relegation six-pointer" as bottom of the table Carterton take on second-bottom Eversley. The Boars hold a two point lead over their hosts, who are yet to register a league win this season. Neither side can be counted as prolific scorers yet. Carterton only have 3 goals at home and Eversley have yet to get on the board away from Fox Lane. 
Sports Pavilion, Monahan Way, Carterton OX18 3AN

Cup

AFC Stoneham v Caversham United
The Purples are mid-table in Division One South but have played fewer league games than anyone else. They also have a 100% league record at home this season. The Goats have suffered three consecutive home defeats but are unbeaten on their travels since the opening day of the season. Maybe they will welcome an away draw in this cup clash? Stoneham concede very few goals, so The Goats attack will need to be on their mettle.
Stoneham Lane Football Complex, Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

Ascot United v Woodley United
A fascinating tie. Woodley are on a roll in the league and will be flying high after ending Penn's unbeaten record in such an emphatic manner on Sunday. They face a tough test of how far they have come as they travel to the side placed second in the Premier Division. Ascot are unbeaten in the league at home and fresh off a 5-1 away win against Wycombe at the weekend.
Ascot United Racecourse Ground, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Milton United v Chichester City
Chichester sit second in Division One South. They've been excellent at home this season but not quite as good on the road. Milton, as followers of this blog will know, are the only unbeaten side in Division One North. City have only conceded one goal at home but eleven on their travels. This game may hinge on which City side turns up against a free-scoring United team.
Milton Heights, Potash Lane, Milton, Abingdon OX14 4XB

Penn & Tylers Green v Eastleigh in the Community
Penn will need to pick themselves up after losing their unbeaten league record at the weekend. They will have home advantage but will have to be at their best to take on an Eastleigh side sitting in mid-table of the Premier League. Penn's potent attack was thwarted for the first time at the weekend so Eastleigh will need to be on their guard against a backlash. However, with Lani Dickinson and Catherine Browning having nine goals between them, they do pose a threat of their own.
French School Meadows, Elm Road, Penn HP10 8LG

Winchester City Flyers v Kidlington
Kidlington had a week off after their game at Eversley was called off on Sunday. They'll make the trip South to take on the premier League's bottom side. Flyers' lowly position, however, could be partially down to them having played three or four games fewer than the teams immediately above them. Flyers also didn't play last weekend. Interestingly, although they aren't prolific scorers in the league, goals have been spread around the team suggesting they can pose a threat from multiple positions.
The Charters Community Stadium, Hillier Way, Abbotts Barton, Winchester, Hants SO23 7SR

My Saturday morning routine has changed quite a bit recently. I am no longer coaching my daughter's team but I do still go along to set-up before the game, then it's off to the opposite side of the rope to 'enjoy' the game. I'm not sure this is actually possible when you have been a coach. The instinct to issue guidance is still there and I have to concentrate very hard on keeping quiet. However, the girls went on to win 5-1 and my daughter bagged a cracking goal from well outside the box. Then, I was straight in the car for the journey over to Gloucestershire to take up the opportunity of getting to a game, adding to the website content and tying to recoup some of the 5,000 followers I have recently lost (long story, but be very careful about changing the DoB on your Twitter account). My chosen game was a Gloucestershire Northern Senior League between Brockworth Albion and Berkeley Town. I visited Berkeley in August, my first blog of the season as they took on Tredworth (Tigers, Tigers Burning Bright). I had never been to Brockworth but they had been on my list of teams to visit for a year or so, so this was a perfect opportunity.

​The Ground
Brockworth is a village just to the South-East of Gloucester, although looking at a map, it is rapidly becoming a suburb of the city. The football club, along with the rugby club just down the road, are on the outskirts of the village but, as with the village itself, population growth is quickly overtaking the sports teams as the village expands. In fact, after speaking with Brockworth's club secretary (lovely bloke by the way, and thank you so much for helping me get the team sheets), there are plans afoot for the football team to move to a site adjacent to the current rugby club, creating a community sports hub type of scenario. It sounded like a great idea and one that I will certainly keep an eye on.
For now, Brockworth play at the Mill Lane Playing Fields. There's a large car park directly behind one of the goals (so be careful where you park), and a changing facility just off the car park, next to a children's play area. There are toilet facilities in the block and, I believe, they were serving hot drinks at half-time (don't quote me on this, it may have only been for visiting officials). The pitch itself, which is surrounded by a white metal pole fence, looked to be relatively flat, certainly no massive slopes in any direction. As with the majority of grounds at this level, there are no covered spectator areas. There is, however, a lovely vista of the Gloucestershire countryside in the background, including Coopers Hill, famous for the annual rolling of Double Gloucester cheese. Unfortunately, being November, the weather wasn't brilliant but, on a warmer, sunnier day, I can imagine this being a very pleasant spot for watching  game (I'll be back to test that theory out I hope).

​The Background
The situation before kick-off was that Albion were nicely placed in third, five points behind leaders Longlevens Reserves but with two games in hand. Berkeley were three places and three points below their hosts. Recent form for both sides looked good. Berkeley had taken 10 points from the last possible 18 but Brockworth could boast a better record, winning five and drawing one of their last six, the draw being with Longlevens. They were one of only two unbeaten teams, the other being Chalford (who I also visited last season (Civil Uprising).
This season's form for Brockworth was a far cry from last season 12th place finish where they spent way too long around the drop zone and only stayed up by two points. Berkeley, on their way to fifth spot, did the double over Albion last season, 4-2 at Canon Park and 1-0 in this fixture. However, there was a much more recent fixture to point to predictions for today. The sides met just last weekend in a County Cup game at Berkeley. It finished 1-1  with The Hunters coming out on top of a penalty shoot-out by 10-9. Clearly, the sides were pretty evenly matched, so I was confident of a good game this afternoon.

​The Game
It was the visitors who settled into the game first. Within a minute of the start Toby Waterman called Riddleston into action but the home stopper was equal to it. Two minutes later the keeper had to be on his guard again as Kyle Head tried to curl one into the far corner. It was a good start from Berkeley, keeping Brockworth penned into the own half for much of the opening encounters, even with a fairly strong breeze in their faces. We also had a short break in play when it was discovered that one of the local pooches had used the pitch as a toilet (I think this happened again in the second half). As someone who has to walk the entire kid's pitch every Saturday morning, I find this so annoying. Pick up after your dog please!! (I'm a dog owner too btw).
However, the home side gradually began to show more confidence and began to grow into the game. The lively Matt Cairns looked to be a threat and he was the first Albion player to cause any concern to Peter Dykes on 27 minutes, when he cut inside and fired at goal. A comfortable save for the keeper, but a sign that Albion were starting to pose a threat.
The game was now very much 50/50. Neither side were finding too much in the way of rhythm and both defences looked solid and well organised. The willing running of Kyle head for Town was keeping the Albion backline on their toes but, in general, neither keeper was being stretched. Possibly the biggest and best chance of the half came with the very last kick when Blaine Skuse found the ball at his feet some 10 yards out but could not beat Riddleston.

HT Brockworth Albion 0 Berkeley Town 0. Not the most scintilating of gamesin terms of goalmouth action but interesting nevertheless. Two very well matched sides who are clearly familiar with each other's strengths and weaknesses. It was going to require either a piece of great skill or a mistake to separate them.

​Both sides stayed out at half-time and were ready to get going again in double-quick time. At this time of year, at a ground with no floodlights, this is a necessity I guess. the weather meant that light was failing quite quickly.

Berkeley were once again the first to show in the second half. Jake Haynes was presented with a gilt-edged chance inside the Albion box but slid his effort just wide of Riddleston's post with the keeper beaten this time. Three minutes after Berkeley had the ball in the Brockworth net. It came from a free kick on the right hand side. the ball was drifted towards the penalty spot where Jake Haynes rose to glance a header past Riddleston. However, the offside flag was already raised and the goal was chalked off. As it happened I managed to get a pretty good photo of the incident. It shows Haynes about to get his head on the ball and the flag up in the background. My angle was not quite in line with the play but, at the time I thought Haynes was just onside. It was extremely tight though and my angle, as I said, was not quite in line. Whatever the case, it was a let-off for Albion.

​Suddenly, after few goalmouth incidents, we had two in a minute as Brockworth went straight up the other end and almost got a goal themselves. Dykes was forced into a double save as a shot bobble din front of him, causing him to spill it. However, he was back on his feet quickly to block the follow-up effort. A few minutes later George Tasney also tried his luck, this time from outside the box, as Albion stepped up their efforts. The game had livened up somewhat and was, for the time, becoming end to end. Just past the hour mark, Berkeley once again came quite close as Riddleston was forced into a full length save to turn a shot around the post. From the resulting corner we had another extraordinary incident as the ball cannoned off players in the box, looping up over the keeper and literally rolling over the bar. No idea how it stayed out. Rory Wilkinson then hit a swerving drive up the other end which Dykes did well to watch and save. Both sides were going for it now as it became increasingly clear that a single goal would probably win the game.
With 16 minutes to go The Hunters had a big penalty shout when substitute Tom Bidder appeared to be bundled over in the box. As they say, "I've seen them given", but not on this occasion. The referee waving it away.
With 10 to go Albion substitute Scott Meakin had a golden chance to seal it for the home side when he found himself all alone in the box as a cross arrived from the left. Unfortunately for Albion, he planted his header straight into the welcoming arms of Dykes.

FT Brockworth Albion 0 Berkeley Town 0. In the end a draw was a fair result, although Berkeley probably had the better chances overall. Goals would have been a bonus, but still a good honest contest between two sides who, in my opinion, will both be up there come the end of the season. The result sees Brockworth drop to fourth after Dursley Town's 5-0 win at Cheltenham Athletic. Berkeley climb a place to fifth in light of Charfield's 2-1 defeat to Chalford. Next up for Brockworth is a trip deep into the Foirest of Dean as they visit mid-table English Bicknor. Berkeley welcome newly promoted FC Lakseside to Canon Park

Brockworth Albion: Riddleston, Grieve, Langworthy, White, Williams, Taylor, Gee, Wilkinson, Tasney, Banner, Cairns. Subs: Stevens, Bird, Meakin
Berkeley Town: Dykes, Dwyer, Sumner, Watmough, Gillison, Nelson, Haynes, Jones, Head, Skuse, Waterman. Subs: Bidder

Ground Number: 337
Att: 
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A

There were goals aplenty in both County Cup and league last Sunday. Carterton registered their first win of the season in the cup whilst the top two in the league fought out a second draw in two weeks.

County Cup
Carterton 4-0 Headington Amateurs
The perfect game for struggling Carterton. After gaining their first league point two weeks ago they had the chance to progress in the cup with a home tie against Thames Valley Division 3 side Headington. A het-trick from Zoe Pugh and one more from Samantha Wadey-Smith saw Carterton comfortably into the hat.

Oxford United 9-0 Kidlington
Kidlington probably welcomed their break from league action but were pitched into an extremely tough County Cup game with Oxford United. The Greens were shown no mercy by a rampant United side who clocked up nine unanswered. However, judging by the photos, it was football that was the winner. You can see the goals through OUWFC Twitter, read a report at the OUFC website and Pete Kinsella (whose daughter scored in the match) captured some great images for Instagram.

League
Caversham United 1-6 Long Crendon
After a goalless draw at Long Crendon a few weeks ago, there were no shortages of goals at this one. Tiff Newland bagged her first of the season for The Goats but they were given a sound lessong from Long Crendon who scored four in the second half to run out 6-1 winners. Goals for Long Crendon came from an Eleanor Lovelock hat-trick and one each from Sarah Harrison, Michelle Bailey and Emma Leith. 

Penn & Tylers Green 3-3 Milton United
For the second time in two weeks there was nothing to separate these two really well matched sides. You can read all about this ding-dong battle in the BotP blog (The Entertainers). Penn goals came from Sasha Smith, Henna Hussain and Ellie Ludgate-Williams whilst Natalie Evans, Georgia Winger from the spot and Charlotte  Comley scored for Milton.

Woodley United 2-0 Eversley & California
Woodley continued their recent great form and made it three league wins on the bounce without conceding a goal. The result puts them level on point with second-placed Penn, with a game in hand. Maddie Sawyer put them one up with May Hamblin adding a very late second goal to seal it. Andrew Batt was on hand to capture the action for us. Reading Today also featured a match report. You can also read the Woodley account of the game on their website.

League (all 14:00 ko)
Caversham United v Milton United
The Goats have suffered two heavy home defeats on the bounce and things don't get any easier this week as they welcome top of the table Milton United. On the plus side, Caversham did manage to get a creditable 2-2 draw at Milton back in October, the only team aside from Penn who have managed to take any points from United. Charlotte Comley and April England scored on that day for Milton. A Freya Jenkins brace secured the point for the Goats.
Mapeldurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

Eversley & California v Kidlington
The Boars will be looking to stem a run of three consecutive league defeats as they entertain Kidlington. The Greens have lost three of their last four league outings and have slipped from the top spot down to fourth. This will be the first meeting this season after the reverse fixture in September was postponed.
Eversley Sports Association, Fox Lane, Eversley RG27 0NS

Woodley United v Penn & Tylers Green
Woodley have taken 10 points from the last 12, scored 12 and conceded just 2. Penn have had two titanic battles with the leaders over the past two weekends, drawing both but, in the process, accounting for a third of all goals conceded my Milton this season. Having said that, neither of these sides concede many goals, just 14 between them in 13 games. This is the first meeting this season and promises to be a fascinating encounter.
UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, Woodlands Avenue, Woodley, Reading, Berks RG5 3HE

Cup
Long Crendon v Carterton
Have Carterton turned a corner. They gained their first league point two weeks ago, then followed it up with their first victory by beating Headington in the cup. They'll go into this one with renewed confidence after a slow start to the season. Long Crendon will also have plenty in their tank after a crushing 6-1 defeat of Caversham at the weekend. Interestingly, Long Crendon have draw all three of their home games this season. The sides have already met in the league with Crendon running out 3-1 winners at Carterton in October. Zoe Pugh scored that day from the home side and grabbed a hat-trick at the weekend. Long Crendon beware of a player in form.
Long Crendon Recreaion Ground, 9 Chearsley Road, Long Crendon HP18 9BS

The second game in my quest to watch the eight Southern Region Division One North teams first hand. A few weeks ago I made it to Long Crendon v Caversham United and this week I had the privilege of getting long to the big clash of the day, leaders Milton United visiting second placed Penn & Tylers Green. Two unbeaten teams featuring the two most prolific forward lines in the division. I'll be honest, I was rally looking forward to this game.

The Ground
There's not too much to say about French School Meadows. I've been there twice before, the last time just a couple of months back, the day after my Dad passed away (One For Dad). However, it was the first time I have visited the ground for an afternoon kick-off and, consequently, the first time I had seen the telescopic floodlights in their lowered position.

​The Background
As stated in the weekly Division 1 North Blog (Make A D1N Edition 12), this was the second meeting between the division's top two clubs in the space of two weeks. At Milton Heights the day after Bonfire Night, the sides fought out a 2-2 draw. Penn took the lead twice, first through Sasha Smith and then through henna Hussain, only to be pegged back both times through goals from Holly Porter and Katie Miller. With 42 goals between the two sides already this season, it looked as if both defences were in for a tough afternoon.
All the statistics pointed towards a great contest and, as it turned out, that is exactly what we were treated to.

​The Game
We were only a minute into the game when the first chance came the way of the home side. Ellie Ludgate-Williams chased down what looked like a lost cause, robbed United captain Katie Miller and shot narrowly wide. A definite sign of intent from Penn. Five minutes alter, with Milton struggling to get to grips with Penn's quick start, Sasha Smith burst free on the right. her cross was latched onto by Henna Hussain, but the number 10 couldn't quite keep her shot down. However, only a minute after that Penn's early pressure paid off when Sasha Smith punished a mistake at the back and slotted the ball home. 1-0
Milton, with Katie Miller playing exceptionally deep to counter the threat of Penn's pace up front, had not got started and were being pushed back constantly by a rampant home team. After 13 minutes Smith's pace once again unsettled the visitors. She pushed the ball past her marker, oustripping the defence before crashing a shot past Taylor and against the bar.
Credit to Milton though, they were digging in and on the quester hour mark showed the first sign that they were beginning to get to grips with the game when a through ball almost put Charlotte Comley in on goal before it was cut out at full stretch by a defender. Then with 19 minutes on the clock, Comley's persistence down the right won the ball deep in Penn territory. The cross flew across the edge of the box and was met by Holly Porter only for it to cannon off a Penn player to safety. Brave defending to get in the way of a stinging drive. Two minute slater and with the game now in full flow. Mollie Dyer went on a great run before forcing a good save from Rebecca Tobin. United, after riding out the storm, were now back in the game even if they were still trailing.
Just before the half-hour mark Henna Hussain demonstrated her power, brushing off a couple of challenges before unleashing a shot that Vanessa Taylor did realy well to save. Straight up the other end, Mollie Dyer once again tested Tobin with a dipping drive that the stopper had to block with her feet. Unfortunately for Milton, no-one was ale to get onto the loose ball. The visitors then had a penalty shout but, in all honesty, it came more from the bench and was never going to be given.
As we headed for half-time, Milton again went in search of a goal. Four minutes remained to the break when Comley did well down the left before cutting back onto her right foot and delivering an inch-perfect cross for Natalie Evans to meet. Her header beat Tobin but hit the bar and droppped inside the six yard bos where Evans was first to react, stabbing the ball over the line for a deserved equaliser. 1-1

HT Penn & Tylers Green 1 Milton United 1. A blistering start from Penn who threatened to run away wiht it in the early stages. Milton had to really stand firm to stem the flow before playing their way back into the game and deservedly going in level at the break.

​Just as in the first half, Penn started the second period on the offensive. Only a minute in, Smith played in a delightful cross for the unmarked Henna Hussain to nod home. 2-1 and all of the hard work Milton had shown to get back level was undone within a minute of the restart.
The visitors did not let their heads drop however. They took the game to their hosts and, on the hour mark, were rewarded with a penalty decision for which the home side had no complaints. Georgia Winger stepped up and beat Tobin from 12 yards. 2-2. That goal provided a springboard for Milton and within four minutes they were in front for the first time. Superb vision from Mollie Dyer to pick out the run of Charlotte Comley. United's top scorer let the ball bounce once before hammering a left-foot drive past Tobin. 2-3
Now it was Penn's turn to have to dig deep. They responded as you would expect. Six minutes after going behind Henna Hussain produced a killer through ball to set Ellie-Ludgate Williams in on goal. Her thunderous strike gave Taylor no chance. 3-3.
In keeping with the game, Penn then almost immediately grabbed a fourth when Smith's pace once again sae her break free but this time Vanessa Taylor stood firm and saved well. To be honest, as a neutral, it would have been harsh on either team to lose it late on. A draw was a fair result.

FT Penn & Tylers Green 3 Milton United 3. Absolutely top notch entertainment. I can only say thank you to both teams. Two very good sides, very evenly matched, who gave it everything. Both teams looked out on their feet at the final whistle.
Next weekend Milton travel to Mapeldurham Recreation Ground to take on a Caversham United team hurting after a 6-1 home defeat to Long Crendon.  Penn & Tylers Green are also heading to Reading as they face the division's form side Woodley United who made it three on the bounce as they beat Eversley & California 2-0.

Penn & Tylers Green: Tobin, Harnby(c), Hussey-Bird, Mackay, McCrae, Smith, Ludgate-Williams, O'Grady, Lloyd, Hussain, Wincoll. Subs: Pollicott, Flint, Panaylotou, Hyde
 Milton Unted: V.Taylor, R.Taylor, Miller(c), Phillips, Loveridge, Barnes, Evans, Porter, Winger, Dyer, Comley. Subs: Welch, Morton, Simons, Saunders


Ground Number: Re-Visit
Att: 
Entrance: £3.00
Programme: N/A

Only three games to review from last weekend. Woodley were the week's biggest climbers after their defeat of Kidlington saw them jump up to third spot. Milton and Penn continued their unbeaten starts with Milton extending their lead at the top. This coming Sunday there are a couple of interesting looking County Cup games whilst, in the league, the top two go head to head once again.

Eversley & California 0-1 Milton United
It's now five wins from seven for unbeaten Milton United. April England came on from the bench to grab the only goal of the game as the leaders edged past The Boars. The three points takes Milton five points clear at the top of the table, although they have played one more than Penn & Tylers Green. Next weekend the top two once again go head to head (see preview below).

Long Crendon 1-1 Penn & Tylers Green
Penn retained their unbeaten start to the season but also lost a little ground on leaders Milton United.
Penn remain unbeaten but lose ground on the leaders. Henna Hussain scored her sixth goal of the season to give Penn the lead but this was cancelled out by an Amber Cattell strike before half-time. Long Crendon remain in sixth spot with their fourth draw from six games.
Wings Media was on hand to capture some superb photos.

Woodley United 3-0 Kidlington
Woodley produced a superb first half performance to effectively guarantee the points before the break. Goals from Gemma Sims, Maddie Sawyer and a penalty from Sophie Measham gave United a 3-0 lead at the break. Kidlington can take some comfort in their much improved second half showing. Woodley leapfrog The greens into third spot on the back of this result. Once again Wanderin Tractor was on hand to give us a great match report, as too Reading Today. You can also check out some fantastic action shots of the game from Oakmist Photography and Andrew Batt.

This weekend's fixtures
County Cup
Carterton v Headington Amateurs  (13:30 ko)
After picking up their first league point of the season and then having a week off, Carterton are back in County Cup action on Sunday. They take on Headington Amateurs who are currently mid-table in the Thames Valley League Division 3 West. Headington's season has been up and down but they did win at the weekend, 3-0 at home to Thatcham & Newbury. There's a three division gap between the teams. Carterton will be looking to take a morale boosting victory whilst Headington will, no doubt, be looking for a cupset.
Sports Pavilion, Monahan Way, Carterton OX18 3AN

Oxford United v Kidlington (13:30 ko)
The County Cup will provide some welcome relief from a slight wobble in Kidlington's league season but they are certainly in for a challenge as they look to make the short journey to National League Southern Premier leaders Oxford United. The Greens are without a win since they beat Carterton 4-2 on September 25th, although they have drawn two of the games since. Oxford are unbeaten in their league and can boast a very strong defensive record with only 3 goals conceded in 9 games. However, The Greens have sic goal Courtney Sumner in their side to give The Yellows a test.
Court Place Farm (Oxford City FC), Marsh Lane, OX3 0NQ

League
Caversham United v Long Crendon (14:00 ko)
After a week off, the fifth placed Goats welcome sixth placed Long Crendon to Mapeldurham. Long Crendon are just a point behind Caversham and have a game in hand. The sides met just over a month ago at Long Crendon Recreation Ground. The game finished 0-0 but was an entertaining affair with both sides having chances and The Goats hitting the woodwork four times in total (Greens And Goats Goalless).
Mapeldurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

Penn & Tylers Green v Milton United (14:00 ko)
The top two clash for the second time in two weeks. A topsy-turvy game at Milton Heights ended in a 2-2 draw. Sasha Smith gave Penn the lead, Holly Porter equalised for Milton. Henna Hussain restored the lead before Katie Miller squared it up again. Between them these two teams have amassed 42 goals in 13 matches, so clearly both sides have ample firepower. To make matters more interesting, Milton also currently have a 100% away record.
French School Meadow, Elm Road, Penn HP10 8LG

Woodley United v Eversley & California
With two wins and a draw in their last three league outings, Woodley have shot up the table and will start this one in third place. Eversley remain second from bottom but have only played four league games, so this may well be a false position. The sides met on the opening day of the season. Top scoroer May Hamblin grabbed the only goal as United left Fox Lane with all three points.
UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, Woodlands Avenue, Woodley, Reading, Berks RG5 3HE

What a strange Saturday. For the first time I was on the opposite side of the rope in the morning, watching my daughter's team play as a parent rather than their coach. It was a strange experience and very difficult to keep quiet. I think I preferred being on the opposite side of the pitch but it was the right time to give it a rest. Hopefully my coaching days are not over. I want to get back to it, but at the right time and with the right squad. Anyway, they won without me. New coach bounce or am I just kidding myself? 
With my wife and daughter heading to the pool and gym in the afternoon, I was presented with an unexpected opportunity to take in a Saturday game and, after a quick check of The Football Traveller, I settled on a Midland League Division Two game between Alcester Town and Hampton. I'd seen both sides play before. I was at The Boggery back in January to see Hampton win the local derby with Knowle (Hampton Not Caught) and last October I saw Alcester win at Kenilworth Sporting in an incredible Smedley Crooke Cup match (Romans March On). It was, however, my first trip to Alcester's home ground.

The Ground
Alcester Town, The Romans, play at Stratford Road just to the East of Alcester town centre. The main pitch is part of a football complex that also boasts 5v5, 7v7 and 9v9 pitches. Entry to the ground is through a double gated entrance into a large car park. Entrance fees are paid from your car as you drive in. Behind the car park end goal, at a slight angle to the pitch, is a block that houses changing facilities, toilets and the tea/snack bar. There is a also an outdoor bar and a patio area with a few tables. All of this is protected from stray shots by netting stretched out behind the goal. Dugouts are on the left hand side as you look form the car park. There are no covered spectator areas, so take an umbrella if the weather looks bad. No such problems today, with temperatures well into double figures despite the month.

​The Background
Before the start of play Alcester sat in third spot, three points adrift of leaders Sutton United and just a point behind Cadbury Athletic in second. Hampton were placed ninth, seven points behind Alcester. The Romans had won the last five in all competitions (even if one was a walkover) and  were unbeaten since a 2-0 reversal at Knowle in Mid-September. League-wide Hampton were also on a good run, having lost just once in the last eight, also a 2-0 defeat to Knowle. That run also included two 2-2 draws with second placed Cadbury. Last season saw Alcester do the double over Hampton. In October two from Reece Hewitt and one from Umit Eminoglu was enough to counter goals from Thomas Mitchell and Norris Tobias for a 3-2 win at Field Lane. Back at Startford Road in April Thomas Mitchell was again on the scoresheet for Hampton but two from Callum Burston-Keeley and a Collins Ajayi strike gave The Romans a 3-1 victory.

​The Game
After a perfectly observed minute's silence, it was the visitors who got into their stride first, Alcester looked a little sluggish in the opening encounters. After 4 minutes the home side were made to pay the price for their slow start. A cross from the left was half-heartedly cleared to the edge of the box where Matt Garbett was on hand to fire low, in off the inside of the post, to put Hampton ahead. 0-1.
If anyone was expecting the early goal to spark an immediate response from the hosts, they would be sorely disappointed. I haven't seen Alcester this season so don't have any previous displays to compare this one to. However, I could tell from the shouts from the bench and the some of the players, that the performance in the first half was not what they expected. To be fair to Alcester though, they did manage to restrict Hampton's progress even if they didn't make too much themselves. In all honesty, the first half was a bit of a masterclass in the art of defending. Both sides looked well organised at the back, neither could work out how to break their opponents down. It was still a decent game to watch as a neutral, although the wind was causing some difficulty, but there was very little goalmouth incident to report.

HT Alcester Town 0 Hampton 1. With both defences well on top for the majority of the half and neither attacking force able to break down their opponents, it was little surprise that the only goal came from a defensive mistake. That looked the only likely way that another may come along too.

​Alcester looked to be more up for it in the second half, presumably after a rocket during the break. However, things could easily have taken a turn for the worse three minutes into the second period. Hampton broke up their left and, when the ball was played across the box it was met by the unmarked Garbett who somehow managed to shin his effort wide of the goal. Admittedly, he did appear to be stretching for the ball but it was a massive let-off for the hosts. Maybe that was the catalyst because, from that point onwards, it was almost one-way traffic.
Even then Alcester had to wait until just after the hour mark before they got back on level terms. Half-time substitute Kieran Fitzgerald produced a superb diagonal ball which found James Ward just inside the Hampton box on the right-hand side. His first time finish was too good for Allely and the hosts were level. 1-1
A few minutes later an almost identical ball found the same player but this time he was driven slightly wider and couldn't get the shot off. However, Alcester appeared to have found a flaw in the Hampton defensive plan.
The Romans were pouring forward at this point and came very close to taking the lead on 74 minutes when Odane Barnes showed great control to pull down a ball on the edge of the box. He swivelled and his a shot back across Allely which beat the keeper but came back off the far post. Two minutes later Barnes was close again when he latched onto a long clearance before firing wide from the edge of the box when he probably had more time than he realised.
Just as it was looking as if the home side's relentless second half pressure would not pay off they grabbed what looked to be a winning goal with just a minute of normal time remaining. Just as with Hampton's early goal, this one came from a half clearance. The ball fell to Luke Dugmore and his effort from the edge, although not cleanly struck, bobbled through a crowd of players and nestled in the bottom corner. 2-1
Then, with practically the last kick in the 95th minute, Odane Barnes finally found his range. With Allely off his line the striker latched onto a loose ball close to the halfway line and hit an audacious lob. The keeper scrambled backwards furiously but could not prevent the ball from crossing the line. 3-1

FT Alcester Town 3 Hampton 1. In the end a deserved home win. The second half was like watching a different Alcester team to the first, when they had appeared lethargic. The result sees Alcester keep the pressure on at the top of the table, although both Sutton and Cadbury won to maintain their leads over the Romans. Hampton drop a place to tenth after Bolehall Swifts edged past bottom side Boldmere Falcons. Coming up, Hampton travel to Bustlehome in the County Cup on Saturday. Alcester face a short journey over to Central Ajax in the same competition.

Alcester Town: Walker, Williams, Wicketts, Wyatt, Bell, Hendry, Barnes, Dugmore, Fullerton, Richards(c), Ward. Subs: Tibbins, Round, Morton, Fitzgerald, Fisher

Hampton: Allely, Albini, Chapman, Slevin(c), Morris, Connaire, C.Seivwright, Fletcher, Bagshaw, Garbett, Lawless. Subs: Wyatt, Considine, Brooks, Mitchell, Froggatt

Ground Number: 336
Att: 
Entrance: £3.00
Programme: N/A

​A few weeks ago I had planned to visit Heath Hayes for their game against Midland League Division One leaders Dudley Town. That game got postponed at a late stage but was re-scheduled for this midweek. The weather in Oxfordshire was appalling during the day, so I was in two minds about making the long trek North in case it got pulled again. However, a tweet from Heath Hayes confirmed that all was well and that the game was going ahead. Even then, the rain was absolutely lashing down on the M42 and I was beginning to worry about the possibility of standing water. Luckily, as I got closer to Cannock the weather started to ease up and by the time I pulled onto the car park there was no rain at all. This would be the third time I had seen my home town team, I was born in Dudley, play this calendar year. Both previous games, against Ashby Ivanhoe (Ashby Castle Dudley) and Darlaston Town (Robins Need To Raise The Bar), had ended in defeat. Thankfully, no-one at the club had noticed this, otherwise they may have asked me to stay away.

​​The Ground
The Coppice Colliery Ground is on the Southern edge of the village of Heath Hayes, just to the East of Cannock. The ground is accessed by a service road which leads onto a fairly large car park. Access to the football pitch is through a path and a gate that brings you in adjacent to the corner of the playing surface. All along this side of the ground are the various facilities. There are three covered spectator areas running down this side of the pitch, two seating areas and a standing area at the far end. Sandwiched between the seating stands is the players and officials changing block. Between the main stand and he covered standing area there is a small bar and snack building.  The dugouts are on the opposite side of the pitch and also feature a small dugout between the main two, presumably for extra officials if required. The whole of this side of the pitch is backed by trees. The pitch looked to be pretty flat and in good condition.
​
​The Background
Heath Hayes and Dudley were coming into this game at opposite ends of the table. The Robins sat proudly on top of the league whilst Hayes were still marooned in the relegation zone. Hayes started the season very badly but, in recent weeks, had started to show more promise taking 10 points from the previous 15 available, including the superb last gasp win at Coton Green that I had the pleasure to witness (Hayes Fever). On top of that, Dudley were beaten 4-1 by OJM Black Country in their last game, so maybe this wasn't going to be the walk in the park that it may have appeared on paper? Last season, both games ended as away victories. An Ashley Smith goal saw The Robins leave Coppice Colliery with all three points in August, a game that saw both Town's Jake Sharman and Hayes's Jamie Brown see red. The March meeting at Noose Lane ended in a 3-0 win for Heath Hayes with goals from Jordan Dodd, Nick Wellecomme and Will Whieldon.

​The Game
The visitors were into their stride very quickly. As early as the second minute Kyle Montague fired just over from the edge of the box, signalling Dudley's intent from the off. That intent didn't take too long to become actuality. Hinesh Patel got onto a loose ball some 25 yards out and, with the keeper off his line, went for the lob. Bills had to back-peddle furiously but mananged to get a hand to it and tip it over for a corner. The ball was delivered towards the near post where Owen Massey had timed his run to pefection to put Dudley ahead. 0-1
Dudley's travelling support probably thought they would kick on from this good start and take control of the game. However, Heath Hayes may be near the bottom, but they have shown recently that they are made of stern stuff. They responded to going behind by immediately going on the front foot themselves. Before the quarter hour mark had been reached, Nick Wellecomme made sure that Ethan Hawkes was awake when the keeper had to stretch to tip his deflected header over for a corner. Unlike Dudley's earlier effort however, the Hayes corner came to nothing.
At this point in the game, I think it is fair to say that Heath Hayes were on top and, whilst they weren't unduly stressing Hawkes, Dudley didn't look as if they were going to be increasing their lead. Sure enough, two minutes past the half hour pint, Heath Hayes were awarded a penalty for a trip in the box. No complaints from Dudley as Nick Wellecomme stepped up to drill the ball past Hawkes. 1-1 and no more than the hosts deserved.

HT Heath Hayes 1 Dudley Town 1. A great start from The Robins but credit to Heath Hayes who came back at the league leaders, matched them and, at times, looked the better team before grabbing a well-deserved equaliser. A great game to watch as a neutral. Some good football on show and a little bit of an edge creeping in towards the end of the half, especially between Wellecomme and Dudley captain Alex Perry.

​Dudley were back out on the pitch way ahead of Heath Hayes or the officials and, within a few minutes, it was obvious that they meant business in the second half. Ten minutes in Dan Danks intercepted a pass near the halfway line and, using his pace, drove past a defender and unleashed a stinging drive which was matched acrobatically by Rhys Bills. A great strike and an equally great save. However, the relief for Hayes was short-lived. The ball was recycled to captain Alex Perry who crossed for Kyle Montague to smash the ball into the roof of the net. 1-2. It was now Dudley who were dominant. They were controlling the game and had clearly been told not to get sucked into the little niggles that had given the first half that bit of an edge. Heath Hayes kept battling away but they could not find the same fluency that had created their chances in the first period, mainly because the Dudley defence looked as solid as a rock. Just past the hour mark Bills was again called on to keep Hinesh Patel out as Dudley looked to kill the game. This they effectively did on 69 minutes. At first it looked as if Rhys Boswell's free-kick had evaded everyone and end in the net but, apparently, there was the slightest of touches from Joe Colley. 1-3.
There didn't look to be a way back for Heath Hayes now but they kept trying, even making a triple substitution, but Dudley were now managing the game perfectly. On 76 minutes Robins substitute Sam Yankson got clean through but somehow managed to mis-control the ball and present it straight to Bills. Three minutes later, Ryan Connor shot over from the edge of the box for Heath Hayes and that summed up their second half. With four minutes to go Dan Danks almost signed the game off in style when he hit a curling drive from just outside the box. It beat Bills all ends up but crashed back off the post.

FT Heath Hayes 1 Dudley Town 3. A dominant and solid performance from the league leaders in the second half. This came on the back of Hayes more than matching them in the first period and certainly showing enough to point at them getting out of the drop zone soon. Dudley now have a seven point lead over Bilston, who have a game in hand on The Robins. Ashby are a point further back with two games in hand. Hayes are in the drop zone, third from bottom, four points adrift of AFC Bridgnorth. Coincidentally, Dudley travel to AFC Bridgnorth on Saturday and Heath Hayes face a trip to Queen Street to take on Bilston, so both sides could do each other a favour.

Heath Hayes: Bills, Marshall, Hallam, Phillips, Brown, Ray, Ryan, Moore, Wellecomme, Williams, Ball. Subs: Burns, Sheppard, Whieldon, Greenshill, Cockrill

Dudley Town: Hawkes, Archer, Boswell, Smith, Colley, Perry(c), Danks, Massey, Montague, Patel, Crook. Subs: Bedall, Yankson, Hanna, Sherwood, Dubem

Ground Number: 335
Att: 
Entrance: £5.00
Programme: N/A

It was a Desmond draw at the top of the table as the top two went head to head. Meanwhile Carterton got their first point, Woodley took the honours in the Reading derby in some style, and Eversley v Long Crendon fell foul of the weather. Only three games next weekend with Caversham and Carterton both getting a bit of a rest.

Milton United 2-2 Penn Tylers Green
The clash of the day, featuring top versus second, somewhat unsurprisingly produced a draw as both sides maintained their unbeaten record. In a topsy-turvy game Sasha Smith put the visitors ahead before Holly Porter levelled the scores. Henna Hussain then gave Penn the lead again only for Katie Miller to secure a point for Milton. Penn stay second, three points adrift of Milton but with a game in hand.

Caversham United 0-5 Woodley United
A bad day at the office for The Goats as they were put to the sword by a rampant Woodley side in the Reading derby. Two from Gemma Sims and another from Charley Evans put Woodley three up at the break. May Hamblin then chipped in with two more in the second half. The result puts Woodley to within a point of Caversham with three games in hand in their neighbours.
A full match report from top blogger Wanderin Tractor and more excellent action photos from both Andrew Batt and Oakmist Photography can be viewed by clicking the name links.
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Eversley & California P-P Long Crendon
Eversley's game, as with their men's team on Saturday, was a victim of the torrential downpours that also scuppered all of the Division One South games this weekend.

Kidlington 1-1 Carterton
Kidlington's blip continued as they were held to a home draw by bottom of the table Carterton. Courtney Sumner was back amongst the goals for The Greens whilst Holly Springate scored for the visitors. Congratulations to Carterton for getting their first point of the season. It's a shame they have a week off and can't use this result as an immediate springboard.

This weekend's fixtures. All 14:00 ko
Eversley & California v Milton United
The Boars have played fewer league games than anyone in the division, just three so far. They are sitting second from bottom but have two or three games in hand over everyone apart from Woodley. Milton still sit top of the league, unbeaten (100% away from home), and leading the way in the goal scoring stakes with 26 in 6 games. The sides last met in the 2020-21 Thames Valley season with The Boars running out 4-0 winners at Fox Lane.
Eversley Sports Association, Fox Lane, Eversley RG27 0NS

Long Crendon v Penn & Tylers Green
Two long term unbeaten league records clash here. Second placed Penn are unbeaten all season whilst Long Crendon have not lost since their opening day defeat to leaders Milton United. They met four times in total last season. Both league games went the way of Long Crendon, 2-0 at home and 1-0 at French School Meadow. There were also two cup meetings which both finished 1-0, one victory to each team.
Long Crendon Rec, 9 Chearsley Road, Long Crendon HP18 9BS

Woodley United v Kidlington
Fifth placed Woodley have taken all of their seven points so far on the road. Having said that, this is only their second home league game of the season. Kidlington, on the back of two league defeats, drew 1-1 with Carterton at the weekend and will be looking to re-capture their early season form which saw them top the table after their first four games.
UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, Woodlands Avenue, Woodley, Reading, Berks RG5 3HE

​Although I had pencilled in a game for Tuesday this week, I didn't think I was going to make it after being in Devon for a couple of days. It looked way more likely that I would be trekking back down the M4 to Shirehampton on Wednesday. However, as luck would have it we did make it back from the South West with 45 minutes to spare, so I reverted back to my original plan, Eaton Socon v St Neots Town in the Huntingdonshire Senior Cup Quarter-Final. A local derby with just 2.2 miles and the Great Ouse between them and a classic David v Goliath cup game to boot. What more could a football supporter want? I had previously seen St Neots Town play, an eventful FA Trophy replay against Marine in 2016 (Saints Or Sinners?). This was the first time I had seen Eaton Socon either home or away.

The Ground
Eaton Socon play at what is now known as The St Neots Interior Stadium, on River Road just to the West of the town of St Neots. In days gone by Eaton Socon was a separate village and was even in a different county, Bedfordshire rather than Cambridgeshire, but has now been consumed by St Neots. There is a reasonably large car park at the ground which, I imagine, normally has plenty of capacity. 

​However, on Tuesday I was lucky to manage to find one of the last few spots as the ground looked to be filling up well for the big derby. Access to the ground is down the side of the clubhouse and through a single gate. This brings you in almost behind the clubhouse end goal. There are two covered spectator areas, both of which are, unusually, at this end of the ground. I believe the reason for this is that the pitch has been turned 90 degrees at some point. The two stands were, at one time, running along one of the touchlines. The dugouts are to the right hand side as you enter. They are an interesting design incorporating a metal pole structure and thick plastic covering. There is a small outside bar in the corner of the ground. Behind this are the changing facilities and entrance to the club and bar which also sells hot food. The bar has an unusual clock which also serves as a reminder of England's 1966 World Cup win.

​The Background
Although the clubs have not yet met in a league match, there have been two previous Huntingdonshire Cup clashes. (I know this thanks to the rather excellent and informative matchday programme. Great effort and only £1). The first meeting came in the 2003/04 competition when St Neots scoring late on to secure a 1-0 win. 12 years ago the teams met in the Semi-Final originally drawn to be played at Eaton Socon's ground but moved to Rowley Park. St Neots came out on top again with a 3-0 score line.
This season, Eaton Socon's first in the Spartan League Division One and Saints first in the Northern Premier League structure, has seen contrasting fortunes for the sides. At the start of play Eaton Socon were sitting in fourth in their table, just two points off second place, after only one league defeat in twelve matches. Saints were just a point and a place clear of the relegation spots having won twice and drawn three times in their thirteen outings. That said, with two divisions separating the teams, you would still have to make St Neots favourites for this game. Not only that but St Neots are historically also the most successful team in the competition, having been successful on  no less than 38 occasions and were the first winners in 1889.

​The Game
It was obvious from the very first minute that Eaton Socon were up for this game. They started the match with a vigour that St Neots did not seem capable of matching. The home side had already looked lively when, in the 7th minute, the St Neots offside trap malfunctioned. Declan Nche did not step up as quickly as his teammates leaving Rhys Thorpe loose in the centre. The ball was fed into him and, whilst the Saints defence looked for the flag, the striker ran on to round Jamie Greygoose and slot into an empty net. 1-0 to The Eagles.
Socon had clearly got a game plan. Whilst they looked very capable of playing the ball around, they seemed to be happier getting the ball forward at the earliest opportunity, giving the like of Thorpe chance to either flick on and hold it up for reinforcements to arrive. Probably not a style for the purists but, nevertheless, it was looking to be very effective and appeared to have knocked the rhythm out of Saints.
We had already passed the half hour mark before St Neots began to look like a team two divisions above their opponents. When they did manage to get possession, they knocked the ball around well and, as the half played out, began to look a little more threatening. On 35 minutes they came as close as they had throughout the half when Toib Adeyemis saw his goal bound effort headed off the line b y Ben Hickling. It didn't stave off the the equaliser for long though. With six minutes before half-time, Trey Charles used his strength to ride a tackle before firing past Jeckells. 1-1.

HT Eaton Socon 1 St Neots Town 1. Socon's direct approach caused St Neots a lot of problems in the first 30 minutes. However, Saints continued to play their game and fought their way back into it, getting a deserved equaliser shortly before the break.

​Any thoughts that the higher-ranked team would put the first half behind them and steamroller their opponents, were completely quashed after only four minutes of the second period. Rhys Thorpe was inextricably left all alone in the centre of the penalty area, the ball was worked into his feet and the striker did the rest, smashing a crisp shot past Greygoose. 2-1. St Neots were still finding it difficult to put any real coherent attacking moves together. Trey Charles and Manny Osei were always willing runners, but in all honesty, Jeckells wasn't having the busiest of nights.
Just past the hour mark the home side made it three when their work rate and appetite for the ball paid dividends. They forced a corner on the right. The ball was played towards the back post and not dealt with properly. It was fed back across the box to Jake Alderson who crashed shot past Greygoose to make it 3-1.
The third goal seemed to have put a lid on the game. It provoked some response from Saints but, aside from a few crosses that Jeckells dealt with and one far post cross that Ben Hickling managed to head back to his keeper even though he didn't mean to, the home goal remained under little threat. Then, on 80 minutes, the visitor's fate was sealed when Aaron Smith picked up a second yellow card and was given his marching orders. The only surprise after that was that there were no more goals for The Eagles.

FT Eaton Socon 3 St Neots Town 1. Overall a deserved and historic victory for Eaton Socon. In my opinion they edged the first half but, after conceding late on, I was expecting a struggle in the second. that didn't happen. The home side were much better than their visitors during the second 45 minutes. On Saturday Eaton Socon are at home again as 7th placed Rugby Borough come to town. St Neots face a trip to mid-table Bedworth United

With Socon close to the top of the SSML Division One table and St Neots towards the foot of the NPL Division One Midland Division, it is not beyond the realms of possibility that this fixture could be repeated as a league meeting in the near future. It really does deserve to have a derby name. Any suggestions?

Eaton Socon: Jeckells, Hickling, Dixon, Kane, Roberts, Baxter, Alderson, Reece-Brown, Thorpe, Mason, Joseph. Subs: Irvine, Parratt, Flack, Bactet
St Neots Town: Greygoose, Nche, Jikiemi, Abbott, Smith, Adeyemi, Hasanally, Stokes, Charles, Rider, Osei. Subs: Anderson, Tonks, Stainsby, Clark, Bent

Ground Number: 334
Att: c350
Entrance: £5.00
Programme: £1.00

Another week, another round-up of facts, figures and photos. It was a full league calendar last weekend and it is once again, this weekend. First of all a rundown of last week's action. Then a preview of the four games on Sunday, including the top two going head to head.

Caversham United 1-0 Kidlington
A Steph Nelson strike was enough to give Caversham all three points and make it three league games without defeat for The Goats. Kidlington slipped to their second consecutive league defeat but were denied something more from this game by a number of tremendous saves from Sam Thoreau in the Goats goal.

Long Crendon 2-2 Woodley United
Michelle Bailey bagged another brace for Long Crendon and, in doing so, became the only player not to play for either Penn or Milton to be in the top scorers top ten list (although I think this is slightly skewed because Courtney Sumner's four from the first game are not included). Rebecca Gooch also hit two for Woodley, both coming from the penalty spot.
Both Oakmist Photography and Wings Media were on hand to capture some superb shots of the action for us.

Milton United 7-1 Carterton
Carterton's miserable run of results continued as Milton bagged a magnificent seven at the Heights. Mollie Dyer scored four times, taking her to joint top of the scorers chart. Natalie Evans, Charlotte Comley, and Georgia Winger were also on the scoresheet. Zoe Pugh with the consolation for Carterton.

Penn & Tylers Green 3-0 Eversley & California
Despite last week's FA Cup exit at Stoneham and the hard-fought County Cup defeat to Portsmouth, Everlsey came into this game having won their last two matches against teams from the same division. However, with Ellie Ludgate-Williams unusually off the scoresheet, it was left to the dynamic duo of Sasha Smith and Henna Hussain (*2) to tame The Boars and retain Penn's unbeaten start to the league season. 

This weekend's fixtures. All 14:00 kick-off

Caversham United v Woodley United
You could call this the Symmetry Derby this season. Both sides have won, drawn and lost equal numbers of games. Caversham sit fourth having played 6, won 2, drawn 2, lost 2. Woodley are two places lower having played 3, won 1, drawn 1, lost 1. Both sides suffered defeat in the County Cup and then bounced back with a win and draw respectively last weekend.
Mapeldurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

Eversley & California v Long Crendon
Eversley return to Fox Lane looking to put right last week's league defeat. They will need to get pat the division's draw specialist, Long Crendon, who have fought out stalemates in three of their five games, including last week's 2-2 draw at Woodley. The Boars have yet to draw a game in the league.
Eversley Sports Association, Fox Lane, Eversley RG27 0NS

Kidlington v Carterton
After a great start, Kidlington have slipped up in the last two league games and will be looking to get back to winning ways this weekend as they host bottom side Carterton. It's been a tough start to the campaign for Carterton who have yet to muster a league point. The sides have already met at Monohan Way back in September when two goals from Samantha Wadey-Smith could not prevent the Greens leaving with a 4-2 victory.
Exeter Park, Crown Road, Kidlington OX5 1AB

Milton United v Penn & Tylers Green
Wit no disrespect to other teams in the league, this has to be game of the weekend. The league's two unbeaten sides go head to head. It also pitches the most prolific scorers, Milton with 24, against the tightest defence, Penn who have conceded just once. They are also the only two teams in the league with a positive goal difference. As it stands, nine of the league's top ten scorers could be on the pitch this Sunday. They have 44 goals between them. It's got 0-0 written all over it.
The Heights, Potash Lane, Milton, Abingdon OX14 4XB