After putting a poll onto Twitter to decide which Ben Turner Cup Semi-Final I would attend this Saturday, I found myself heading over to Syresham for the second time this season. Not only a second visit to Halse United but their visitors from Garsington were also their opponents when I visited in September (Points Shared). My girl's team had a big friendly win in the morning, so I was in a pretty good frame of mind as I headed out to Northamptonshire and, what's more, the sun was even shining when I set out (that didn't last though).

The Ground
Unsurprisingly, nothing has changed at the Syresham Sports & Social Club since my last visit in September. Oddly, one of the reasons I visited in September after originally planning a trip to Tuffley Rovers, was the shortage of diesel. That's something else that has also not changed. Once again we seem to have a big shortage with No Diesel signs up at all of the local stations.

The Background
The sides have met twice already this season, the 2-2 that I witnessed in September (Points Shared) and a 4-1 win for Garsington at Denton Lane in December, a game that saw Callum Lucas get all four goals for the hosts. There's still a little way to go in the league but, as it stands, Halse sit sixth, Garsington eighth, three points behind. It's been a good first venture into this level for Halse, featuring some very decent results. Goals have not been free flowing but, then again, they have not conceded too many either. Only Garsington, in that 4-1 win, and champions-elect, Bicester Hallions, have really put them to the sword. Garsington have had a bit of a mixed bag this season. Plenty of wins and goals at home but only three points and ten goals from nine games on their travels. In Callum Lucas they have the league's joint top scorer on 23 goals, sharing the lead with Bicester Hallions striker Ryan Brooks.
To be honest I knew very little about the Ben Turner Cup and, despite searching around, I still don't know much about it. The current holders are Freeland FC but there has not been a competition for the past two years due to the pandemic. As far as I can make out neither Halse United or Garsington have won the trophy in the past.
Halse have played two games to get to the Semi-Final, beating Bure Park 2-1 at Pingle Field and Adderbury Park Reserves 3-0 at home. GGarsington had a bye in the first round and followed it up with a 4-2 defeat of Oxford Irish Athletic.
​

​The Game
Quite a cagey start from both sides with neither of the teams managing to establish any real rhythm or build up a head of steam. Dean Ingram did smash a dipping volley over Molloy's head in the sixth minute, but his effort came back off the bar. This was the only major opportunity for either side in the opening 20 minutes or so. Halse without doubt had the lion's share of the ball but Garsington were strong at the back, severely restricting any chances that may have come United's way. The home side manage to carve out the next major goal scoring effort when Luke Gilsenan found himself with a clear sight of goal from the edge of the box. Molloy was out quickly, standing strong and making himself big to block the Halse winger's effort well. 
Aside from those two chances the ball was predominantly i the middle third of the pitch until the 31st minute when the visitors took the lead against the general run of play. Top scorer Callum Lucas found some space on the right hand side and was played in on goal. He drove towards the box before lifting the ball over the advancing Humphries to make it 0-1.

HT Halse United 0 Garsington 1. Neither side really got any rhythm going. If anything Halse had more of the ball and a couple of half decent chances but it was a cool, classy finish from Lucas that divided the sides at the break.

​The early encounters of the second half indicated that Garsington had upped the stakes. They looked to be that little bit quicker to the ball and sharper in the tackle. Despite being in front at the break, they clearly thought that they needed to maintain more possession if they wanted it to stay that way. Their renewed vigour payed dividends a minute before the hour mark when they doubled their lead, Dan Chalmers with a stinging drive that beat Humphries at his near post. 0-2. Four minutes later the Halse stopper had to be alert when Lucas was again sent through one on one. Humphries was again quick off his line, blocking with his feet. The ball fell to Lewis Ryan on the edge of the box but his first time lob just cleared the crossbar. Garsington smelled blood and on 66 minutes Humphries kept his team in it again, once again blocking from Lucas with his feet. The Garsington striker could easily have had a hat-trick if not for Halse's goalkeeper.
That stop looked increasingly important two minutes later when the home side got themselves back in the game. Luke Gilsenan turned sharply in the box and fired low to Molloy's left and, despite the keeper getting a strong hand to it, the ball squirmed into the net. 1-2. If Halse thought it was game n again now, their hopes only last three minutes. This time Lucas turned provider, playing Lewis Ryan in on goal. Humphries again got something on the effort but there was still enough on the ball to take it over the line despite the last ditch attempt from defender Aaron Oddy. 1-3.
Halse upped their efforts but it was always going to be too late for a two goal turnaround at that point. Their defeat was confirmed on 82 minutes when Brad Dolton got the ball just outside the Halse penalty area and decided to go solo, dancing into the box before drilling a shot past Humphries, much to the delight of the Garsington bench and support. 1-4.

FT Halse United 1 Garsington 4. The visitor's second half performance was worthy of the victory. They upped their pace, were first to every ball and won almost every 50-50 challenge. 
The other semi-final saw Kirtlington beat Bicester Town Colts 3-1. The Final will be played at Kidlington's Yarnton Road ground, 13:30 ko on Saturday 7th May.

​
Halse United: Humphries, Lloyd, Purnell(c), Harris, Hamblin, Murphy, Gilsenan, Read, Simpson, Kingham, Ingram. Subs: Oddy, Keen, Childerley
Garsington: Molloy, Smith, Hayden, Stubbs, Sibanda, Chalmers, Dolton, C.Gaul, J.Ryan, L.Ryan, Lucas. Subs: Bartlett, Campbell, Ludlow, J.Gaul, Loveridge

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

No game for Jovial Monk again this weekend. However, it is Swindon Sunday League Cup Final day, so we'll take a quick look at that game as a replacement for your weekly dose of Monk magic. Both Caversham teams are in action, and both are at home, so there's a good opportunity of a Mapeldurham double-header with a spot of lunch between games (I'm sure a friendly Goat will piiunt you in the direction of a local hostelry).

Not Jovial Monk
Swindon Sunday league Knockout Cup Final
AFC Mannington v DPR FC
This promises to be a very interesting match up. Mannington finished as runners-up in Division 1, three points behind FC Walcot. They've only suffered three league defeats all season and have clocked up 60 goals in 12 games, conceding just 17. DPR are currently second in Division 2 but have three game sin hand on leaders Gorsehill Borough whilst also having three games in hand. They too are prolific scorers with 50 in 12 games, conceding only 13. They have only lost once in the league this season and have already knocked FC Walcot out of the Cup.
KO 10am. Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, SN4 8DS
Entry £2 for adults, seniors and U16 free.
There will be a matchday programme available (always a draw for hoppers)


Caversham United
The Goats take on 116Exiles for the second time in under a week. Yes, that's right, under a week. The sides met just a couple of days ago, Tuesday evening, at the Exiles place. Caversham went down 3-1, a result that leaves The Exiles just a point behind The Goats but with a colossal 6 games in hand. Exile shave hit some form lately, the win over Caversham was their third on the bounce. This increases to four if you count the Home Walkover awarded for the Rose & Thistle game scheduled for this Thursday. Tuesday's result was also Caversham's first defeat in four, so they will want to put that behind them and try to move up a congested mid-table. Sixth-placed Wayback are only 4 points ahead of The Goats.
Caversham United v 116Exiles
KO 10:30. Mapledurham Playing Fields, RG4 8LD

Caversham United Women
United's women have a re-run of the Berks & Bucks Cup Final this Sunday as they welcome Penn & Tylers Green to The Rec. A win for The Goats could see them leapfrog Penn and possibly take them to fourth spot (depending upon Tilehurst's result). The sides have met twice before this season. The reverse league game at French School Meadows ended in a 4-1 victory for the home side thanks largely to a Henna Hussain hat-trick. In the Cup Final a few weeks back, Penn ran out 3-0 winners (Merritt Award), executing a superb game plan. Two goals from Sasha Smith and a cracker from Ellie Ludgate-Williams were too much for The Goats. It was a great game to watch and Sunday should also be a really good game. It will be interesting to see what style both teams adopt now that they are both familiar with each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Caversham United Women v Penn & Tylers Green Ladies
KO 14:00. Mapledurham Playing Fields, RG4 8LD

As always, all of the teams would massively appreciate extra support. If you are in the area, why not go along and savour some top grassroots football? You won't regret it.

Tuesday night was my first opportunity for a midweek game since the start of March's trip to Carterton, so when the parents of my daughter's friend offered to bring her back from a Netball tournament, I jumped at the chance to get out to a match. Now that the nights are a little longer it also gives an opportunity to see some teams at Steps 7 and below in midweek. That's exactly what I planned for Tuesday. An early evening jaunt up to Coventry for a 6pm kick off. Perfect for still being able to get back home at a very reasonable hour to hear of my daughter's exploits on the Netball court. It was also an opportunity to visit a ground that had been on my list for a couple of years, Triumph Athletic, and get to see the team that look most likely to take the Coventry Alliance title this season, Dunlop FC.
I have seen Triumph play twice before, in the 2019 Coventry Telegraph Final against Copsewood (Copse No Robbers)and a pre-season friendly at Bishops Itchington in August 2020 (Big Skies). Unfortunately for Athletic, both games ended in defeat.

The Ground
Triumph Athletic play their home games at The Triumph Sports Ground, Tanners Lane on the Western extremities of Coventry. As well as the main pitch there is also another two full size pitches for football or rugby, junior football pitches, a cricket square and training nets for the cricket team. There is a large car park and a good sized clubhouse building that houses the players and officials areas. Looking form the clubhouse block, the main pitch is directly ahead. On the right-hand side there are two dugouts backed by a number of advertising hoardings. The left-hand side opens out onto the cricket square and also has a small cricket pavilion backing onto the football pitch. There are no covered spectator areas. The pitch itself slopes slightly away from the clubhouse but looked to be pretty flat. All in all, it is a good setup for this level.

​The Background
Although these two teams both play in the same division, this game was actually a Stan Oulds Cup match. The cup is named after the former President of the Coventry Alliance League, Stan Oulds, who passed away in 2008 at the age of 86. Dunlop came into this game still fighting on three fronts, not only do they have the Stan Oulds Cup, they are also in the Final of the Coventry Telegraph Cup, and only need a point in their final league game, coincidentally also at Triumph Athletic, to clinch the title. Triumph started the day sitting in 7th place in the Alliance Premier, relatively clear of the drop zone. The sides have met once before this season, on the opening day. Two goals from Harry Jackman gave Dunlop a 2-1 victory. Isaak Francis replied for Athletic.

​The Game
With a couple of big games coming up, I was interested to see how Dunlop would approach this game. However, with 10 of the 11 who started in Saturday's huge clash with Copsewood, on the field from the first minute, it was clear to see that they were going all out for a win again this evening. The opening encounters were relatively even but after around ten minutes the Dunlop cogs seemed to slot into place and they began to up their game. The first big chance of the game came on 13 minutes for Dunlop's Jarro Scott. His effort went narrowly wide, the start of what was going to be a bit of theme for the striker this evening. Two minutes later, with the visitors now well in the ascendancy, top scorer Konnor Frankum was bundled over in the box. There were appeals from Dunlop but the referee was having none of it. To be fair, I have seen them given but it would have been quite a harsh one on the defender. Two more minutes passed before Scott, who was starting to be a real threat to Athletic, drove down the left. He got to the by-line and pulled back for Frankum who slid his effort wide of the far post when he probably should have done better.
Dunlop had now cranked up the pressure so much that it seemed just a matter of time before they broke the Triumph resistance. On 21 minutes, they did finally breakthrough when the unfortunate Rob McCrane misjudged a back pass, leaving it too short and allowing Konnor Frankum to nip in and beat Barlow. 0-1
Before Athletic had time to recover from going a goal down they found themselves two behind with only 25 minutes on the clock. Dunlop were awarded a free-kick about 25 yards out but way out on the left flank. There looked little danger as Frankum stepped up to take it but his vicious curling effort beat everyone to go in off the underside of the bar at the far post. Probably some wind assistance to help it along, but a magnificent strike nevertheless. 0-2. The goal took what was left out of the Athletic sails and they continually found themselves on the back foot. They made occasional raids into the Dunlop half with Dom Lambert being a more than willing runner, but they never rally threatened Jack Chatland's goal. In fact it was Dunlop, and Scott in particular, who continued to look the more likely to score again. On 35 minutes Scott weaved his way into the home penalty area before planting his shot high over Barlow's bar. Then, four minutes later, Frankum put in a superb cross that was met on the run by Scott but his effort crashed against the bar and rebounded to safety. The Dunlop striker was continually getting into the right position but just couldn't find the net. Then, with everyone getting ready for half-time, Scott produced another moment of magic, backheeling a pass perfectly into the path of Callum Davies who took a touch before firing low and hard past Barlow. 0-3.

HT Triumph Athletic 0 Dunlop 3. It took Dunlop a little while to get up to full speed but when they did, they showed us why they only need a point to clinch the title. Their movement, pace, skill and finishing power has been too much for Athletic who, to be fair, have not played badly themselves.

​Neither side went into the changing rooms at the break and, with the light already starting to fade on a grey evening, both were keen to get on with the second half. So, after a very much shorter than normal break, we were back under way.

Immediately it was apparent that Triumph were keen to make a fist of the second period. They seemed a little sharper and quicker to the ball than they had been in the first half. However, it was Dunlop who conjured up the first chance of the second period, setting Frankum free to shoot narrowly wide on the run. Almost, but not quite, his hat-trick. If the visitor's expected to go on from there and fill their boots, they were mistaken. Triumph, whilst still not really creating any clear cut chances, were certainly seeing a lot more of the ball and Dunlop were forced to concentrate on defensive duties for a while. 
It took until the 69th minute before Dunlop created another serious opening. Callum Davies coming close to doubling his account when a snapshot came back off Barlow's left-hand post. A minute later though Scott was at it again. Another superb run ended with him sliding an inch perfect ball across the six-yard box for Seb Sam to apply the simplest finish. 0-4. 
A few minutes later Barlow had to be at his very best as Dunlop substitute Habib Salim tried his luck from close range. However, the home stopper could not do anything on 88 minutes when Frankum finally managed to get his hat-trick. 0-5
There was still just enough time for Dunlop to be awarded a last minute penalty, with no complaints from the home side. Habib was given the responsibility and gladly stepped up to make it 0-6. There was time for a kick-off but very little else before referee Philip Gibbins called and end to the game.

FT Triumph Athletic 0 Dunlop 6. The score line suggests a bit of a massacre and, to be fair, Dunlop were the better team, However, as a neutral, I didn't think Triumph played badly, they were just beaten by a very good team and had no answer for the visitor's forward line. Jarro Scott and Konnor Frankum were, on the night, practically unplayable. Combine that with the ability of the visitor's midfield to pick the right passes and it was always going to be extremely difficult for Triumph.

Triumph Athletic: Barlow, E.Haymes, Prokopiov, Cooper, Flavell, McCrane, C.Haymes, T.Atkins, Lambert, Comasky, O.Gorman. Subs: J.Atkins, Tata, R.Atkins, K.Gorman
Dunlop: Chatland, Bawden, Ellis, Vim, Davies, Welland, Osbourne, Blyth, Sam, Scott, Frankum. Subs: Watts, Salim, Williams

Ground Number: 313
Att: 
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A

It's been three weeks since my last outing and, to be honest, I wasn't expecting to get out today. However, at twenty-past two in the afternoon, the opportunity presented itself for me to get to a match. Of course, despite not expecting to go, I did have a good idea of local games and knowing that I was already too late to get to Dunlop (Coventry) or Wootton St George (Blisworth), I quickly opted for the North Bucks League Interdivisional Trophy Quarter-Final between two Premier sides, Potterspury and AFC Towcester, in the knowledge that I just about had enough time to get there just before kick-off. Not only that, but it was a local derby, which is always a draw for me.

The Ground
Potterspury Sports & Social Club is situated on the Northern edge of Potterspury village, just off the A5 a few miles out of Milton Keynes. The ground is accessed via a small road off Meadow View which leads to a car park and the clubhouse. Behind the clubhouse is a skate park and basketball/5-a-side court. Directly in front of the club house is a 9v9 pitch with the main pitch just a little further over. It is surrounded on three sides by trees and bushes although the far end of the ground drops away behind the goal into a stream. Much like Old Bradwell United, they have a net on a stick which is used to retrieve wayward shots. There are no covered spectator areas around the pitch. However, there are a few benches scattered around all of which seems to have a good view of the playing area.

​The Background
This game was a Cup Quarter-Final and, although it was part of the Interdivisional Cup, both sides ply their trade in the same division, The North Bucks & District Premier League. In league terms, AFC Towcester certainly hold sway this season, currently sitting in fourth spot on 32 points from their 15 games. Potterspury, meanwhile, sit 9th with 16 points from 16 games. They have only met once in the league so far this season, oddly enough this was Potterspury's last game (Towcester have played once in between). It was a 2-2 draw at Towcester two weeks ago. Looking at the stats on full-time it appears to have been a lively game for the home side who had three players sent to the sin bin during the 90 minutes.
One thing I hadn't realised until I started to write this blog is that Potterspury are the most successful North Bucks & District team in terms of league titles, with 10 to their name over ther# years, one more than neighbours Deanshanger Athletic.

​The Game
It was the visitors who began the game on the front foot. Within a couple of minutes their Number 10 let fly, letting he home keeper know that he was around. This set the tone for the opening encounters, with Towcester looking the more lively for the first 5-10 minutes. However, Potterspury did start to play their way into the game and, on 14 minutes, took the lead even though it was still slightly against the run of play. Towcester conceded a free-kick out on Potterspury's left wing, about 35 yards out, The ball was drifted into the penalty area and there was home captain Andrew Ord to head home. 1-0. Some questionable marking by the Towcester defence but a good strong header from the skipper.
Two minutes later Towcester's keeper needed to be on his very best form to prevent his side going further behind, just stretching far enough to his left to keep out another Ord effort. By this time and on the back of going a goal in front, Potterspury now looked to be the more dangerous of the two sides.
Ord was involved in everything that the home side were mustering and on 24 minutes was involved in yet another incident. This time he was sent clear by a good through ball. He managed to get a toe to the ball before the onrushing keeper, lifting it high above him but not quite strongly enough to go in. The ball bounced high just in front of the Towcester goal and looked as if Ord, who had continued his run, would have the easy task of nodding it over the line. However, a Towcester defender had got back sufficiently to somehow ease him off the ball and prevent the goal. Potterspury claimed that it was a penalty, and presumably a red card, but the referee was having none of it. Ord complained to the extent that the referee issued him a 10 minute sin bin. I have got to say that, from my view point on the halfway line it wasn't completely clear what happened. all I can say is that the defender did appear to be all over the back of Ord. Enough contact for a penalty? It was hard to say from 50 yards away.
To be fair to the home side, they saw out the 10 minutes of being down to 10 men with a fair amount of ease. Towcester, as you would imagine, had a lot more of the ball, but the home side closed ranks, slightly re-jigged their formation, and defended very well.
Then, with two minutes of the half remaining and with their captain back on the pitch, Potterspury doubled their lead. This time the threat came from the opposite flank. The home side won a corner which was played in firmly and at waist height. The ball was missed by a group of players at the near post but there was Potterspury's Jack Harrington stooping to head home. 2-0

HT Potterspury 2 AFC Towcester 0. A sluggish start from the home side but, after that, they had enough play to say they deserved to be in front. Towcester will be disappointed to have conceded a second just before half time and had a couple of chances themselves. Certainly not done and dusted at 2-0.

​Towcester once again started quickly. Seven minutes in one of their substitutes came close with a shot that just whistled wide. They looked to have upped their game in the second half and were certainly having more of the ball than they did in the first 45 minutes. Having said that, the home keeper wasn't unduly worried until the 69th minute. That was the point at which Towcester really should have had a goal back. Unfortunately for them their Number 7, alone inside the 6 yard box, somehow managed to put his effort wide. It was a huge let off for Potterspury and a minute later they had another one. This time Towcester's Number 9 rose well to crash a header against the home crossbar. These two quickfire events possibly decided the game. If just one of them had resulted in a goal, it could well have changed the course of the game. Towcester did still keep pressing for a goal, their Numebr 10 again shot narrowly wide on 85 minutes, but they continued to find themselves frustrated. This was demonstrated by their Number 7, by this time already substituted, earning himself a yellow for comment's to the referee from off the pitch.

FT Potterspury 2 AFC Towcester 0. A frustrating afternoon for Towcester who had enough chances in the game to have at least got a consolation, if not more. However, Potterspury took their chances, defended well when they needed to, and managed the game reasonably well towards the end.

Ground Number: 312
Att: 
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A

For the first time in a while, all being well, we have a full house of games this Sunday. There's a Goats double-header at Mapeldurham with both sides at home whilst a well-rested Monk side have a short journey across Swindon to look forward to.

Jovial Monk
Monk, currently sitting pretty in third spot travel over to Chiseldon who are four places and eleven points below them in the table. The hosts are on their best run of form this season having won their previous two games, 4-3 at Mario's FC and 2-1 at AFC Stratton both of whom are above them in the league. These recent six point shave taken Chiseldon well clear of the drop zone. Monk will need to be wary of their opponent's new found winning ways but will be bolstered by the knowledge of an 8-0 demolition back in November, a game that saw both Jono Peachey-Score and Mitch Sutton grab hat-tricks. The other two were provided by Anthony Collett and Kris Redford.
Chiseldon v Jovial Monk
KO 10am. Chiseldon Recreation Ground, SN4 0LE

Caversham United
The Goats are on a roll. Two wins on the bounce and a clean sheet last weekend as the won 7-0 at Reading Kites. This weekend's game is crucial in the battle for league positions as they welcome Woodley Saints Hobnob, one place above the Goats but only by means of a better goal difference. Hobnob also won last weekend, so both sides will go into the game with some confidence. The sides have met already this season although the result was eventually decided by the league who awarded an away walkover to Caversham. With GC United not playing, the winner of this game would jump into seventh position in the table.
Caversham United v Woodley Saints Hobnob
KO 10:30. Mapledurham Playing Fields, RG4 8LD

Caversham United Women
Caversham's women, currently sixth, are also involved in a tough battle against a team right alongside them in the table, although not as close on point. They welcome seventh placed Wargrave Women to the Rec hoping for another win to keep them in contention for a top three finish. They will be boosted by the knowledge of a 4-2 win at Wargrave in November. Two goals each from Caitlin Levy and Rosie Page-Smith did the damage for the Goats on that day. Wargrave are on a run of five defeats in the league but that run came on the back of 4 straight wins in all competitions, showing that they are more than capable of hitting some form. They have also scored more times on the road than at home, something the Goats will need to be wary of.
Caversham United Women v Wargrave Women & Girls
KO 14:00. Mapledurham Playing Fields, RG4 8LD

As always, all of the teams would massively appreciate extra support. If you are in the area, why not go along and savour some top grassroots football? You won't regret it.

This time last year I had just finished the group previews for the Cricklade Supreme Trophy & Shield 2021, #CSTP21. We didn't know what a fantastic competition this was going to be but I think it is safe to say that it was just what everyone needed following a second abandoned league season. After the group stage the competition split into two separate sections, the Trophy for the top two in each group, and the Shield for the remaining teams. This was designed to get as many games under the belt for all of the clubs. After over two months of excellent entertainment it came down to two Final games. The Trophy was to be contested by Chesterton FC of the Stroud & District League and Malmesbury Victoria Development from the Wiltshire Senior League with the Stroud side winning a penalty shootout after a thrilling 3-3 draw. In the Shield we had Swindon AFC of the Swindon & District League taking on Stratton United of the Stroud & District League. Again, it was a cracking game with Swindon just about edging it 3-2 in a game that swung backwards and forwards like a pendulum. Both Finals were an absolute credit to the leagues involved and a fitting end to a fantastic tournament. 
Both Chesterton and Swindon also had new leagues to look forward to in the 2021-22 season, Swindon winning promotion to the Premier League and Chesterton moving to a new league all together, the Gloucestershire Northern Senior League Division 2. Both moves were the equivalent of one step up the ladder.

​We'll start with Chesterton. Beating a Step 7 team in the CSTP21 Final was a superb result and came on the back of two excellent but truncated league seasons. In 2019-20 Chesterton were top of Division Two with just a single defeat against their name and were 11 points ahead when the season was ended prematurely. They gained promotion to Division One and fared even better. When the 2020-21 season ended abruptly they had a 100% record, albeit after just eight games. Nevertheless, going into #CSTP21 they had suffered just a single defeat in two years. After their #CSTP21 victory they progressed up the leagues again, entering the Gloucestershire Northern League at Division Two and taking their place alongside some well established Step 9 sides. At the time of writing Chesterton have nine games remaining and are sitting just below the halfway mark on 29 points from their 21 games. They are in no danger of dropping into the relegation mire and look set for a very creditable mid-table spot. It's fair to say that it has been an up and down season for Chesterton, who didn't manage to string consecutive wins together until January when they saw off Barnwood United and Lydbrook Athletic in the space of 7 days. However, they have achieved this feat again in their last two matches before writing, winning 1-0 at Bibury (the team directly above them in the table), and 1-0 at home to Leonard Stanley. I haven't managed to see them play this season but I certainly hope to get to a game soon. They were a joy to watch in the #CSTP21 and I am very much looking forward to seeing them play again.

​Swindon AFC were the side that I saw the most during #CSTP21, a total of five games. They lost the first two games, but both games were hugely entertaining with The Maroons playing their part in both. Then came their superb 4-0 win at Step 7 Ludgershall Sports. Despite the fact that they went on to win the Shield this, in my opinion, was their finest result of the competition. They were brilliant on the day. Executing an almost flawless game plan to completely destroy a team two divisions above them. Then came a pulsating semi-final with our Swindon Sunday League friends, Jovial Monk. A game that had everything. This was then followed by another hugely entertaining Final with Stratton United that saw both teams go behind and pull the game back before Swindon edged it 3-2. Following their success and like Chesterton, Swindon began the 2021-22 season in a new division one higher than previously. In the case of The Maroons it was the Swindon & District Premier League. Swindon lost their opening game 4-2 at Nine Elms but then embarked on a run of three straight wins which saw them settle into life in the top flight. They went on to win more than they lost and secured fourth place in the league. However, the tale does not end there, and unfortunately it does not end happily. With one league game remaining Swindon issued a statement that they were folding. This came hot on the heels of fellow Premier League side Hatherop (another side I watched during #CSTP21) also throwing in the towel. Both of these teams will be a great loss to the league.
On a personal note, all five games in which I saw Swindon play were highly entertaining. The club was always happy to share their team sheet with me and the genuinely seemed to be a good bunch. They had a good side too, and there's no doubt that their players will be picked up by other teams around the area. I do hope that no other Swindon & District sides follow The Maroons and 'Rop out of the door. Last Summer's trips down the A420 were great fun and I am hoping to take in more SDFL games whenever possible.

​If you want to re-live any of the #CSTP21 games mentioned above, here are the links to the blogs:

Chesterton 5 Jovial Monk 2
Semi-Final - Chesterton 6 Hatherop 0
Final - Chesterton 3 Malmesbury Vics Dev. 3 (9-8)

Nalgo Sports 5 Swindon AFC 4
Redhouse 3 Swindon AFC 1
Ludgershall Sports 0 Swindon AFC 4
Semi-Final - Jovial Monk 2 Swindon AFC 4
Final Swindon AFC 3 Stratton United 2

It's been a quiet footballing week here at BotP Towers. No live game last weekend and again no live game in midweek due to circumstances beyond our control. It's still 50/50 whether I will get to see a game on Non-League Day as well. It's a similar case for Jovial Monk who are without a scheduled match for the second Sunday running. However, both Caversham teams are in action, the men on the road and the women at home.

Caversham United
After last weekend's narrow 2-1 defeat of Berkshire Dons, The Goats make the trip across Reading to take on bottom side Reading Kites. This will be the first meeting of the clubs this season with the reverse fixture scheduled for the final game in May. Kites have only managed a solitary point so far but that did come quite recently in a 1-1 draw with GC United, who beat Caversham 2-1 only 2 weeks ago, in mid-February. Since then they have lost the last two quite heavily, 7-1 at Wayback and 10-0 at home to Westwood. The Goats could climb as high as seventh with a win. The big question is, can Euan Barker score for the fourth game running?
Reading Kites v Caversham United. 
KO 10:30. Linear Park 2, RG31 7AT

Caversham United Women
Despite leading twice through goals from Freya Jenkins and Caitlin Levy, Caversham were eventually held to a 2-2 draw at bottom side Mortimer last weekend. This Sunday they take on second from bottom Stonesfield who went down 4-0 at home to Caversham's Cup Final conquerors Penn & Tylers Green, last week. The sides met on the opening day of the season, a game that Stonesfield won 3-2 (Goats Beaten By WOW Factor). However, this was their last victory until February 6th when they had the first of a run of three wins on the bounce, ended last weekend by Penn.
Caversham United Women v Stonesfield Strikers West Oxfordshire. The Goats are still in with a good shout of a top three finish but a win this weekend is a must if the want to close the gap on Tilehurst and Carterton.
Caversham United Women v Stonesfield Strikers West Oxfordshire
KO 14:00. Mapledurham Playing Fields, RG4 8LD

As always, all of the teams would massively appreciate extra support. If you are in the area, why not go along and savour some top grassroots football? You won't regret it.

No game for Jovial Monk this coming weekend but both Caversham teams are scheduled to play important league games.

Caversham United
The Goats will be looking to put last weekend's 2-1 defeat at GC United behind them as they welcome Berkshire Dons to Mapeldurham Rec.
The Dons are having a decent season and currently sit in fifth spot on 29 points. Caversham are now tenth on 16 points. The sides have met once this season back in November. An early Euan Barker goal for the Goats was cancelled out by Albert Klossi as the sides shared the points with a 1-1 draw. Dons come into the game on the back of a 5 game unbeaten run which has included four wins, and encompassed an excellent 4-2 win at Emmer Green. The Goats Euan Barker will be looking to score for the third game on the bounce having notched at Burghfield and at GC last weekend.
Caversham United v Berkshire Dons
KO 10:30. Mapledurham Playing Fields, RG4 8LD

Caversham United Women
Caversham's women's team came up against a Penn & Tylers Green team that were on fire last Sunday in the Cup Final (Merritt Award). They may have been beaten but they played their part in an immensely entertaining game of football and will no doubt lift some silverware in the near future. This weekend they are back in league action and looking to get themselves as high up the table as possible. They pay a visit to the league's bottom side Mortimer who they already beaten once, 2-0 in November with goals from Stacey Butler and Rosie Page-Smith. However, they won't underestimate their opponents who, last Sunday, progressed to the Semi-Final of the League Cup after winning a penalty shoot-out against The Goats local rivals, Caversham AFC.
Mortimer Ladies v Caversham United Women
KO 2pm. Alfred Palmer Memorial Field, RG7 3TW.

As always, all of the teams would massively appreciate extra support. If you are in the area, why not go along and savour some top grassroots football? You won't regret it.

​Whilst half of Caversham was on tenterhooks waiting for the Cup Final in the afternoon, over in Swindon Jovial Monk were back in league action on Sunday morning. The Monks were on the road, travelling up to Purton to take on a recently much-improved Purton Redhouse side. The hosts had won two of their last four games and would be full of confidence. However, Jovial Monk thrashed Saturday side Priory Vale 8-1 in a friendly last weekend and also had the knowledge of a 2-1 win against Redhouse earlier in the season. All set up for a good morning of football.

In the first 10 minutes Monk were all over their opponents but then the referee decided to get in on the act. Joshua Riggs got himself sin-binned although, by all accounts, he was not the guilty party. That swung the momentum of the game and for the 10 minutes that Monk were down to ten, Redhouse were well on top and Monk had to batten down the hatches to keep it at 0-0.
Once Riggs re-entered the fray Monk once again took control of the game and and after half an hour went in front through Jake Kimber. Things were looking good for a half-time lead until one of those, now almost traditional, Monk mistakes let the hosts back in for an equaliser.

HT Purton Redhouse 1 Jovial Monk 1

Into the second half and once again the referee decided to take centre stage awarding a controversial penalty to Redhouse. Once again Josh Riggs got the rough end of the stick and this time went into the referees notebook, despite the fact that he was not the player who made the tackle from which the penalty was given. Riggs clearly not on the referee's birthday card list.
So, 2-1 to Purton Redhouse and, to make matters worse, Monk's goalkeeper Jesse Seward-Nice injured his shoulder, even though he managed to continue for the time being. With 15 minutes left on the clock and Monk still trailing, The Gaffer decided to make Riggs' day even more eventful, and pushed him up front in an all or nothing move to 3-3-4 and the hope of getting a goal.
Sure enough, Monk forced a corner and from the ensuing cross Declan Conlon, up from the back, powered in a header for 2-2. The attacking formation had paid off but what next? Revert back to a more defensive formation and protect the point or stay as they are and go for the win. Is that really a question? It's Jovial Monk people, they play to win.
Shortly afterwards the gamble paid off. Another header this time from, yes you guessed it, Josh Riggs. Converted from centre-back, he popped up with the third goal. 3-2
However, with 5 minutes remaining, Jesse was unable to continue between the sticks. I'll give you one guess who stepped up to take the gloves......yep, you got it. Josh Riggs. Monk had no more subs left, so not only were they playing an outfield player in goal they were also down to 10.

Now, after all that already happened, you might expect that Riggs also had to save a penalty to assure the three points. What do you think this is, Roy of the Rovers? Surely, a sin-bin, a yellow card, a goal and then taking over in goal is enough for anyone?

FT Purton Redhouse 2 Jovial Monk 3.

The result takes Jovial Monk up to fourth spot a point above AFC Stratton and a point below Casuals. However, both of these teams have at least one game in hand. That said, a top three finish is still on the cards for Monk with five games remaining. Next scheduled game for JM is not until April 3rd when they are due to travel to Chiseldon. Of course, there's always time to give a lesson to another Saturday team in that time. Maybe Josh Riggs will have recovered from last Sunday by them too?

​The third game of a packed football weekend for me was the big one, as Caversham United Women took on Penn & Tylers Green Ladies in the Final of the Berk & Bucks FA Trophy. The game was to be played at Beaconsfield Town's Holloways Park (7 Up For SYCOB), a ground I had visited some time ago, but one that has had a fair bit spent on it in the intervening years. The main change is, of course, the conversion from grass to an artificial surface, although I would say that the ground also feels that it has been spruced up as well. The team has also gone through a change, dropping the SYCOB (Slough Youth Club Old Boys) name in favour of Town.
The route to the final for both sides was describe din last week's It's A Sunday Thing blog (March 13 - The Big One) but, in brief, the Final was to be played between the competitions top scorers (Caversham United - 29 goals) and the meanest defence (Penn & Tylers Green - 0 conceded). Neither side had won the competition before so, whatever the result, a new name was going to be etched on the trophy.

Normally I write match blogs from the perspective of a neutral, which is exactly what I am at 99% of games. However, as I have said before, I have had some involvement with Caversham United, both men and women's teams, for a while now so this blog is written from the viewpoint of a supporter.

​The Game
Penn, playing in the change kit of red and black stripes, took the early initiative in the game signalling their intention right from the off and coming close from a second minute corner. Caversham tried to respond to the initial Penn onslaught. A deflected Holly Swan effort could have dropped in under the bar but Penn's keeper Rebecca Tobin was well positioned to make the save. In all fairness, that was as close as The Goats got to the Penn goal as they were increasingly pushed backwards. The pace of Sasha Smith and Ellie Ludgate-Williams was causing all sorts of problems for the Caversham defence. They couldn't push up too far for fear of the ball over the top, but by sitting back a little, they were inviting pressure. In the tenth minute Penn came very close again but an excellent last ditch effort from Sophie Wicks got the ball off the line.
Penn were first to every ball at this time, with Caversham were really struggling to cope with their attacking strength. Clearly aware of Caversham's goal-scoring record, Penn had decided that keeping the ball in the Goats half was their best form of defence, and it was working.
With a quarter of an hour gone, Penn found a way past the Goats defence. A superb through ball found Ellie Ludgate-Williams who shrugged off a challenge form Katie Dearling before crashing a shot off the underside of the bar, leaving Nina Merritt with no chance at all. 1-0 and no more than Penn deserved.

​Having already made a couple of good saves, Merritt was again called into action after 21 minutes. Sasha Smith was put through one on one but the Goats stopper was out quick to spread herself and make the save. The half continued in the same manner, Penn constantly probing the Caversham defence but The Goats, to their credit, digging in and holding firm. Caversham's Freya Jenkins, so often an attacking threat on the left, was being very tightly controlled by the Penn defence, especially Madheeya Whitaker who never let Jenkins have an inch of space.
When the Goats backline did miss a challenge Merritt was always on hand to keep out the Penn strikers. Once again, after 39 minutes, Caversham had their keeper to thank and the Merritt v Smith battle continued. Again Sasha Smith was in on goal but again Merritt pulled off a great stop to keep it out. Penn could easily have been three or four to the good if not for the Caversham keeper.
The introduction of Sumayah Zayadi towards the end of the half gave Caversham a different dimension. The quick feet of the Goats striker certainly gave the Penn defenders something to think about and then, with a couple of minutes to go before the break, Caitlin Levy let fly. The shot was over the bar but it did, at least, remind Penn that they were in a game.

HT Penn & Tylers Green Ladies 1 Caversham United Women 0. No doubt that Goats Coach Georgia Laine will be relieved to get them back into the changing room just the one goal down. Penn were relentless in their pressure for much of the half. Goats need a plan to take the load of Nina Merritt's shoulders.

​Caversham started the second half on a much more positive note. Freya Jenkins seemed to be finding a little more space on the left and the midfield were definitely getting hold of the ball more. This in turn temporarily cut out the supply to the dangerous Penn front three.
After 54 minutes it was Penn stopper Rebecca Tobin's turn to demonstrate the art of goalkeeping. Molly McKeever broke through for Caversham but a slightly heavy touch allowed Tobin to dash from her goal and throw herself at the feet of the Caversham striker, smothering the attempt and getting a knock on the head for her troubles. Tremendous bravery from the keeper.
Caversham were starting to make a little more of an impression on the game now but still had to be aware of the threat that Penn posed. Their number 10 turned sharply and shot just over after 56 minutes, just to keep the Goats mind's focussed.
Then came a couple of minutes that completely floored the Goats. With 68 minutes on the clock and the score still 1-0, Sasha Smith burst through the Goats defence and this time Merritt could not perform miracles as the striker finished really well. 2-0
Caversham hardly had time to acclimatise to be 2-0 down when Penn hit them again. Once again it was Sasha Smith, played in beautifully and this time lifting a perfect lob over the onrushing Merritt. 3-0
To be honest, after the third goal went in the game went a little flat. There was still time for Merritt to make a fingertip save to prevent a dipping Henna Hussain shot from going in, but both sides knew the game was up once Penn got their third.
Caversham continued their efforts until the very last seconds but Penn continued to demonstrate how they had got to the final without conceding a single goal.

FT Penn & Tylers Green Ladies 3 Caversham United 0. No lack of effort from the Goats, every player put in a shift. However, on the day, they were well beaten by a very good Penn & Tylers Green team. The Goat's day will come, I've no doubt about that. They are a talented and honest bunch who work hard and deserve success. As for Penn & Tylers Green, they were impressive across the whole pitch. Their path to the Final showed that they could defend but they are also a serious threat going forward. Smith, Hussain and Ludgate-Williams gave the Goats defenders no respite. I suppose this should not have come as too much of a surprise given that Penn are the second highest scorers in the league. Only leaders Badshot Lea have more goals. 
While writing the blog it occurred to me that I was mentioning Nina Merritt's name almost every sentence. What that showed was a) the amount of pressure that Penn put on Caversham and b) the superb display of goalkeeping put on by the Caversham stopper (hence the blog title).

If you would like to catch either of these teams back in league action, and I heartily recommend it, they are both away from home this coming Sunday (20th March). Penn & Tylers Green travel to second from bottom Stonesfield Strikers, whilst Caversham look to pick themselves up with a visit to bottom side Mortimer Ladies. Both games are 2pm kick-offs.

Penn & Tyler Green Ladies: Tobin, Gates, Harnby, McRae, Wyncoll, O'Grady, Roberts, Whitaker, Smith, Hussain, Ludgate-Williams. Subs: Harrigan, Penny, Stopforth
Caversham United: Merritt, Dearling, Clarke, Hobson, Wicks, Levy, Jenkins, Butler, Swan, McKeever, Hopkins. Subs: Thoreau, Zayadi, Baxter

Ground Number: Re-visit
Att: 253
Entrance: £5.00
Programme: Online