Match Report: Blue Dragons Vs Red Rovers

Date: Friday 26th April 2024

Venue: Hatches Farm Sports Ground 

The home fires burned on either flank of the Hatches Farm pitch as the Foresters returned from their winter training camp for match 4 of the Monforte Cup. The Blue Dragons, two one down in the series so far, utilised the recent alignment to Premier League rules, opting for the maximum seven subs.  The tension had been building all day and the unveiling of the new kit sponsor didn’t disappoint - Monforte Wealth Limited, most apt for the battle of wills that followed.

Referee Venditti got the game underway and the Red Rovers couldn't have started better, Griffiths heading in from a corner within the first 3 minutes.

The Blue Dragons took a while to settle but soon they were combining the agility of experience and youth, passing the ball round using the width of the pitch well.  The equaliser came from sustained pressure with Harris unleashing an unstoppable left foot shot from the edge of the box. 1 – 1.

Within a few minutes the Dragons were ahead. Harris who along with the Spitfire’s Butterfield, had been in “bomber” command in the early stages, showed quick reflexes to prod home from close range following a Hinton save. 2 -1.  

Then the controversy started, referee Venditti, fresh from his latest eye transplant, gave a “clear” penalty following a brutal challenge by Monkey. 

In a great display of sportsmanship, channelling the fair play spirit of Sheffield Wednesday legend Paulo Di Canio, Dragons’ forward “Buck” Rogers called it as a free kick not a penalty, to which Venditti agreed. In an ironic piece of symmetry, Venditti’s eye donor had also been a big Wednesday fan: David Blunkett.   After all the kerfuffle Rogers sent his effort over the bar.  

The Red Rovers were rattled and harangued the Referee.  The already acrid air turned blue with the foul language which carried on throughout the game. But there was nothing that could be done about it as you can't shut the Referee up.  The Rovers tried to get back in the game but the aerial might of Wicks and Griffiths were unable to convert the out-swinging crosses of Aldridge and Styles. Styles himself came closest with an in-swinging corner that was cleared from under the bar by the head of Hildon.   As half time approached the Dragons increased their advantage when following good pressure, the ball came out to debutant Leo Kamal whose shot, bound for the bottom left corner was deftly and deliberately deflected by the back heel of Butterfield.  3.1 to the Dragons.

Half time came and went and the second half had hardly started and there was more abuse from the man in black; this time directed at Wicks.  Thank god the sponsors weren’t present to hear it. The Reds had more of the ball but the front two of Clark and Floyd couldn’t find a way passed the dominant Wilkinson. At the other end a mix up saw an own goal give the Blues an even greater advantage . 4.1.

In the last quarter the floodgates opened: first Rogers bagged himself a well deserved goal dodging through from the right and slotting past Lyman.  The Reds kept pushing forward with Clark and Floyd keeping the solid Dragons defence on their toes by frequently interchanging but both saw their attempts thwarted by Wilkinson or intercepted by sweeper Green.  A mazy run from Aldridge which saw him pull his shot wide was the last effort from the Rovers.  

But as the Rovers pushed forward the Dragons exploited the gaps.  Davidson topping a fabulous display,  nick nicked the ball on the halfway line before rounding the keeper and scoring from a near impossible angle.  It was then whatever you want for the Dragons with Parfitt beating the offside trap to put them in seventh heaven. If the Reds thought the Blues had the rub of the green, it was confirmed in the last few minutes when Martin Green's precise up and under bounced into the top corner to make it eight.

So the Dragons breathed fire on this occasion but we can be sure of a Rovers Return! 

Teams:

Blue Dragons:

Milne, Rogers, Harris, Boxell, Green, Darragh (c) , Davidson, Saunders, Butterfield, Parfitt, Wilkinson, Farbrother, Kamal, Whyte, Moore, Unwin, Hildon, May.

Red Rovers"

Abbott, Frost, Hardingson, Aldridge, Griffiths, Hinton, Wicks, Payne, Stiles, Cross, Clark, Graves, Lyman, Floyd, Tyler, Faul.

Ref: D Venditti

Match Report: Blue Dragons Vs Red Rovers

Date: Saturday 29th March 2024

Venue: Ganger Farm Sports Complex, Romsey 

It had been a Long Good Friday without a beer for many Foresters awaiting the latest instalment of Blue Dragons v Red Rovers.  Would this game be a classic like the 1980’s Hoskins and Mirren offering? We were soon to find out.

The Dragons started confidently, passing the ball well and making fast breaks down both flanks and the early pressure told with Jack Farbrother opening the scoring.  The Rovers settled but couldn’t break the offside as the Dragons played a high line. The Dragons pressure continued through the quarter and were awarded a stonewall penalty when Matt Harris was put on his ‘arris by Simon “Monkey”Foul Faul. What followed was an outburst that turned the air bluer than the Dragons’ bibs and more fitting to the gangster movie itself.  Remarkably Faul was not banished to the wilderness and escaped any punishment whatsoever.  When the commotion was over, Matt Thompson calmly stepped up and put his kick to Hinton’s right, the power beating the Rover’s keeper despite him getting a hand to it. 2-0 to the Dragons.  The Rovers briefly came back to life but the Dragon back line held firm and when the through ball did get to Floyd, goalie Wilkinson was a match, pulling off two great saves to keep the Dragon’s advantage. Gradidge hit the bar too but the Rovers were unable to break through. The game could have petered out then but the thriller was only just starting; another attack down the left saw Farbrother nail the best cross for 2,000 years, allowing Parfitt to apply the glossiest of matt finishes:  The ball dropped out of the  heavens for the advancing Parfitt to expertly control first time, one touch on and slotted the ball past Hinton.  3- 0 Dragons before half time and surely game over.  

The Rovers were clearly rattled but put their frustrations aside and reorganised.  Several advances down the wings came to nothing but then a ball over the top saw Floyd spring the offside trap and finish with a delicate lob giving the keeper no chance.  3-1 to the Dragons at half time. 

The second half saw a determined Rovers drive the Dragons back.  Runs from Gradidge, Aldridge and Wicks were plenty and eventually the second came, with Floyd, on fish maybe for good Friday, bagging his second of the game.  3-2.   Could Rovers rise again?  The next goal came from nowhere.  A screamer from Stiles from all of 25 yards saw the Rovers’ equalise with half hour to go. A real “Ganger banger” that kissed the underside of the bar in the right hand corner while still on the up.  Now it was the Dragon’s turn to be rattled, and with Parfitt off the pitch they were unable to maintain the status quo.   Five minutes later and the Rovers were ahead; Aldridge getting to the by-line on the left and doing what everyone does on a bank holiday, he went to Wicks, who showed nifty footwork before putting it in the far bottom corner.  4- 3 to the Rovers

This galvanised the blues for a fight back, Boxell going up front to allow Venditti to drop back allowing him to spray his blue balls around. The attacks kept coming, Boxell punching an effort against the bar and after a goal mouth scramble, would have equalised if it wasn’t for a terrific save by Hinton turning the ball round for a corner.  But luck was not with the Dragons, and as they pushed forward in search of a leveller, Floyd broke free and passed inside for Tyler, who showed calmness to make it 5 – 3 to the Rovers and the resurrection was complete.  But the bumper crowd (recorded as 3) demanded more from this holiday classic, and they got it.  Alfie Moore also hitting the woodwork and setting up a grandstand finish with the Foresters fourth. But despite frantic attacking from the Dragons with Harris and Unwin going close, it was lights out for them and Easter joy for the Rovers.   

So another tight match in this enthralling series. Two worldy goals in a thrilling holiday contest with some eggcellent football on show.

Teams 

Blue Dragons

Wilkinson, Milne, Parfitt, Green, Unwin, Saunders, Farbrother, Moore, Thompson, Boxell, Venditti, Harris

Red Rovers

Hinton, Carter, Hardingson, Faul, Frost, Barber, Gradidge, Stiles, Payne, Wicks, Aldridge, Floyd, Tyler

Ref  - Nick Asamoah

Match Report: AFC Foresters Vs Mottisfont

Date: Saturday 9th March 2024

Venue: Ganger Farm Sports Complex, Romsey 

A blowy Ganger Farm hosted a tightly contested match with local rivals Mottisfont. The match was agreed less than a week before by Foresters who commendably hastily assembled a strong team despite the short notice and many playing Friday night. 

The Foresters started well, controlling the first twenty minutes and helping themselves to a two nil lead through.  For the first Rogers playing on the left cut inside and was invited to shoot from distance, which he did with a low drive to the keepers right to open the scoring.  Floyd added the second when he chased down the Mottisfont keeper, who failed to control the bouncing ball,  for Flloyd to steal it from him and pass the ball into an empty net.

A resilient Mottisfont team didn't panic and gradually set up camp within the Foresters half being first with the head to any long clearances as the Foresters looked to push out.  A few well executed passes saw Mottisfont quickly break down their  right hand side and the shot looked destined for the net when Wilkinson dived low to his right with a stunning firm handed save to preserve the two goal lead.  However that was to be short lived, the referee who had turned down three previous optimistic appeals, adjudged a seemingly harmless jump by Johnson to have impeded the Mottisfont striker and awarded a penalty which was dispatched in the bottom left corner giving the keeper no chance. Two One.

Foresters got back up the field with Clark and Floyd having a few runs at the Mottisfont defence in the run up to the half time whistle.  The second half saw the Foresters start well building pressure on the Mottisfont box but unable to capitalise. The best chance fell to Rogers but he was unable to add to his tally following a flowing Foresters move, by putting Floyd’s cross over the bar from close range. 

But Mottisfont grew stronger as the game went on stretching the Foresters who couldn't get a foothold in the midfield.  An unfortunate ricochet off Carter’s boot hit his hand and the referee didn't hesitate to award a free kick.  The resultant dead ball found its way through the wall to the bottom left hand corner of the net and Mottisfont were level.

Mottisfont kept up the pressure and five minutes later, were awarded their second spot kick of the game following a foul in the box.  Again, the diving Wilkinson was left with little to no chance as the penalty was blasted straight down the middle. 

In a last throw of the dice, Foresters went back to 4 4 2 and found a new lease of life.  Several quick breaks looked promising but ultimately not really troubling the new Mottisfont goalie, who had previously played midfield.

And the equaliser nearly came thanks to quick thinking from the fleet of foot Floyd who connected with a Foresters clearance first time on the half volley from 25 yards out, only to see it just pass the post.  A final flurry saw Captain Hinton run the length of the pitch only to be thwarted by the outcoming goalie. 

A valiant effort by Foresters, where three dead ball decisions ultimately saw a finely tuned Mottisfont take the spoils.

MoM was Johnson - who just shaded it from all the Foresters that played well.  He formed part of a very strong defence that was only breached by 2 penalties and a short range free kick. 

MM

Team:  Wilkinson, Carter, Faul, Hinton, Johnson, Griffiths, Venditti, Farbrother, Filippi, Moore, Davidson Floyd, Clark, Rogers

Goals; Floyd, Rogers

Referee:   Simpson. (H) 

Match Report: AFC Foresters Vs Wimborne BO66

Date: Friday, 23rd February 2024

Venue: Ganger Farm Sports Complex, Romsey 

Friday evening saw Foresters extend their unbeaten run in 2024 with a hard fought home win against Wimborne.  Foresters started the brighter, and played some good early possession against a very decent Wimborne side and soon the "Choppers" had the upper hand.  Dave Floyd latched on to a through ball, used his pace to out sprint the last the defender,  calmly rounded the keeper and then slipped on his carpet slippers with the goal at his mercy - an emergency run to put his boots on soon followed...!!!  

Foresters applied the pressure and on a corner, Craig Vigar making his Foresters, debut in a big pair of shorts, scored the opener with a deft header.

Foresters never let up and Wilkinson in the Foresters net, never got his hands dirty and soon Foresters were 2 up - again, Wimborne failed to clear  a corner and Vigar added his 2nd with a shot that went in off the bar and defender.  

The Wimbone heads dropped and Foresters soon went 3 up with a penalty for handball, calmly converted by Griffiths after another corner set piece caused disarry in the Wimborne goalmouth - all the Friday Football carefully orchestrated set piece plays paying dividends.  3 - 0 half time.  

Second half and Wimborne expectedly came out guns blazing.  For a good 20 minutes, Foresters could not get out of their half and dropped deeper and deeper, and so inevitably Wimborne soon pulled a goal back.  Vigar rounded off a dream debut with his hattrick goal with another header, although this was in his own goal. 

This galvanised Foresters, and they could have and should have added to their tally with 3/4 really good opportunities but the only one effort of note was a Harry Boxhall long range shot that was superbly saved by the Wimbone keeper who tipped over.  The game petered out with neither side threatening, but not before Ottley and their defender had a handbags gentlemens excuse me, that resulted in the pair being booked - another £15 in the Club funds…!  

A good game well refereed by Wicks, and Foresters look forward to the return match in April.

MoM was Vigar - dodgy hat trick, not quite Butterfield fashion, but a great debut nonetheless. 

Next stop is Netley Marsh on Friday 1st March 8.15ko.

Match Report: Blue Dragons vs. Red Rovers

Date: Friday, 16th February 2024

Venue: Ganger Farm Sports Complex, Romsey 

The latest round of the newly instigated Monforte Cup kicked off on a surprisingly mild February evening.  The game was the first since the renaming of the Blues as the Dragons and the Reds as the Rovers.   

It was the Rovers who settled soonest and were rewarded with the flying Floyd meeting a pinpoint Gradidge corner. That seemed to wake the Dragons up and they were soon back on level terms with Venditti slotting home calmly after good approach play.  Now fired up the Dragons took the lead when Moore appeared to beat the offside trap only to see the flag go up. Referee Jordan Wicks, discussed with Stockley Park and the goal stood. 2 -1 to the Dragons.  A good spell for Dragons followed, but Clark broke free to beat the well-disciplined Dragons offside trap before crossing from the touch line for Floyd to get his second from close range.  2-2.  There was more to come before the break however with the Dragons re-taking the lead with a Johnson left footer. 3-2 to the Dragons at half time.  

The second half started well for the Dragons but it was the Rovers who made it 3 -3.  Floyd, having refused to go down under challenge, had two shots valiantly saved by a falling Wilkinson before the ball spun free to Clark who netted it in the far corner.  A period of sustained pressure from the Dragons saw several good chances go begging before Whyte finished off a flowing move to give the Dragons the lead again.  It looked like the Dragons were set to pull away and call time on the Rovers as we entered the last ten minutes.  Captain Hinton made a last throw of the dice and brought Floyd back on to get the Rovers biting again.  They threw everything at the Dragons and following good work on the left from Aldridge the ball eventually came back in the box where Vigar volleyed in for 4-4.  The Rovers tails were wagging and waves of Red attacks followed; a Green challenge on Styles saw a penalty awarded. Up stepped Payne but Wilkinson dived to his left to thwart him and gather the ball.  A let off for the Dragons.   But still the Rovers came, and with minutes to go, a Garrett “save” saw referee Wicks pointing to the spot again. This time Terry Griffiths gave Wilkinson no chance as he firmly potted in the left hand corner. And that was that;  the Dragons threw caution to the wind but the puff and magic was not there and it was left to Floyd to break away to complete his hat trick.

MM

Blue Dragons: Wilkinson, Wheeler, Unwin, Moore, Whyte,  Johnson,, Garrett, Green,  Harris,  Milne, Venditti, Davidson,  Boxell, Farbrother J.

Red Rovers: Hinton (c),  Aldridge,  Radford, Gradidge, Floyd,  Payne, Stiles, Vigar, Griffiths, Farbrother K, Cross, Prankerd, Clark.

Match Report: Blue Foresters vs. Foresters Reds

Date: Friday, 18th January 2024

Venue: Ganger Farm Sports Complex, Romsey 

Ganger Farm was more like Ice Station Zebra as artic conditions prevailed as the first Reds v Blues Intra club game of 2024 commenced for AFC Foresters.  The mercury was at 3 below as the referee, Mr Foresters himself David Venditti, blew the whistle to get the game underway, an achievement in itself, having dashed back from an appointment at the Pierre Luigi Collina eye clinic.  

The first half commenced as a tight affair with Reds looking more likely to score.  They capitalised early when Foresters top scorer Ottley rounded the keeper to slot home.  The Blues could have equalised shortly after following a great run from Garrett Snr who danced around the keeper only to put his final shot just wide.  

As halftime approached it was all Reds and particularly the pace of Floyd testing the Blues defensive high line and eventually after a well -timed run, he fired home for two nil.  The Reds pressure continued with Floyd being thwarted repeatedly by the safe arms of man of the match Wilkinson in the Blues goal or the raised arm of the linesman’s offside flag.  Twice the Reds thought they had scored again, with Floyd and Aldridge both finding the net only to see the frost glistening offside flag held aloft.  

And then the moment of the match;  Floyd’s shot from the right hand side of the box was heading for three nil, top left corner when Wilko dived high to the right and tipped it over the bar to stop Reds from sealing the game.  

Halftime, and by now, the sub-zero temperature was manifesting in ice on the back of everyone’s boots.  After a stern talk from Captain Darragh, the Blues knew they needed to start the second half strongly.  And so they did – following another great save by impeccable Reds keeper Wicks the ball was eeked from his fingers by Darragh to fall to the feet of Butterfield who, despite the frozen conditions, let it go into the top far corner from a narrow angle. Two – one and game on.  

Almost immediately the blues were level, following some patient build up play, the ball fell to Moore on the edge of the box who calmly placed it in the bottom left corner.  The game then threatened to boil over with a booking for the Reds’ stalwart Faul, who was judged to be overzealous with his challenge on the Blues Captain. With both teams tiring, it was a case who would get over the line but momentum was with the Blues.  Harris who’d been increasingly influential on the right in the second half found himself in the centre and following several ricochets, used his happy feet to lob the ball over the approaching keeper to take the lead.  A tight end to the game saw chances at both ends but it was the Blues walking in the air at the final whistle, victorious in what pundits have called “the best intra club game yet”, where every Forester gave their all in a thrilling match.

MM

Blue Foresters: Wilkinson, Wheeler, Unwin, Moore, Whyte, Butterfield, Rogers, Johnson, Darragh (c), Garrett M, Garrett W, Green,  Harris,  Milne.

Foresters Red: Wicks, Hinton (c),  Aldridge,  Lee,  Radford, Ottley, Gradidge, Floyd, Carter, Payne, Stiles, Faul, Griffiths.

Match Report: Corfe Castle vs. AFC Foresters

Date: Sunday, 12th November 2023

Venue: Wareham Recreation Ground 

Weather: Cold, damp and wintery (like a Tuesday night in Stoke)

 Remembrance Sunday saw AFC Foresters returning to winning ways with an awayday fixture against Corfe Castle.

Before the game started both teams observed an impeccable 2 minutes silence on this Remembrance Sunday to remember those who have fallen.

Neither side created any real chances in the opening exchanges, but soon Foresters started to dominate with Danny Butterfield imposing himself in the middle of the pitch ably supported by debutante Farbrother.  Midway through the first half in a rare breaching of the Foresters back line, the Foresters keeper made a poor effort failing to snuff out a speculative through ball, and the onrushing Corfe forward managed to slip the ball past the keeper and the ball rolled into the empty net.  This spurred on Foresters and 5 minutes before the break after a rasping shot from Butterfield which was tipped onto the crossbar, Filippi followed in with an easy header to level it up.   

At the break the message was clear for Foresters, keep the same intensity and the rewards were sure to come, and so it was, soon into the second-half Foresters took the lead with a thunderous drive from the impressive Aldridge, who soon added to his tally with a tap in after the Corfe keeper spilled a shot to make it 3-1 to the visitors.   Aldridge topped off a fine display with an assist for Academy player "H" Butterfield  with a thunderous header to wrap up a comprehensive 4-1 victory.

Throughout the game, the Foresters defence kept the Corfe attack at bay when needed and the defence was superbly marshalled by Hinton, Johnson, Wheeler and Cross and Corfe rarely threatened the Foresters goal.

All in all it was a great display and highlighted the depth of the Foresters squad to put out a good team against decent opposition, who play on a far more regular basis than the Forestmen.

There were many contenders for MoTM, but with 2 goals and an assist to his name, Aldridge was the Foresters Starman. 

The next competitive match is under the lights at Gangers against Netley Marsh on Friday 8th December 815ko - tickets on sale now.

AFC Foresters: Farbrother, Aldridge, Ottley, Johnson, Clark, Venditti, Filippi, Clark, Butterfield, Saunders, Hinton, Wheeler, Cross, Butterfield, Faul.

Match Report: AFC Foresters vs. Netley Marsh

Date: Sunday, 8th December 2023

Venue: Ganger Farm Sports Complex, Romsey 

Weather: Moist and wintery (but not cold enough for gloves)

AFC Foresters rounded off their competitive matches for 2023 with a hard fought 3 - 3 draw against a youthful Netley Marsh side, under the lights at Ganger Farm on Friday night.

With Milne and Unwin taking the reigns to manage the side, Foresters again shuffled the pack to put out a competitive side against a good Netley team.  The previous encounter earlier in the year saw Foresters edge a close and good spirited matchup, and this game served up much the same.

The early exhanges did not produce much of note, with Foresters moving from a 3 5 2 to a more resolute 4 4 2 and soon this change provided the first goal of the game.  Farbrother with a neat exchange found himself on the edge of the box, and tucked the ball away into the corner with a deft left foot shot.

This spurred on the visitors, but the Foresters defence stood firm, but when a Netley forward drove into the box, Wicks was adjudged to have taken down the forward when it looked more like he had stood on the ball.  The incensed the Foresters management duo of Milne and Unwin, and had there been a 4th official, they would surely have been reprimanded for their remonstrations.

With the penalty converted, Foresters were undeterred, and after the restart played a more measured game, playing the ball to feet, and remaining calmer on the ball.  

With a slick move from front to back,  Aldridge crossed for Johnson to rise unmarked to plant a header firmly into the net giving the Forestermen the lead into the half time break.

After the restart, again both defences were on top, but with 6o minutes gone, Foresters failed to deal with a speculative breakaway, leaving the Netley forward the space to drive a good finish passed an impressive Wicks to bring Netley level.

With the game becoming evermore stretched, it was Foresters who took the lead when Netley failed to clear a Foresters corner.  Lee's towering header was well saved by the Netley keeper, unclear if the save was behind the line Rogers was on hand to smash the ball into the roof of the Netley net and claim the goal.

With both sides pressing either for an equaliser or to increase their lead, each had goals disallowed for offside, but it was Netley who drew level with 10 minutes to play, with a scrappy affair when Foresters failed to clear. their lines.

Foresters understandably were flagging somewhat, on the big Gangers pitch against a younger side, and losing players to injuries and near death, as the minutes ticked by, and dropped deeper and deeper to the edge of their box, but eventually saw out a good natured game to deservedly share the spoils.

There were many contenders for MoTM, but with a combative display in the middle of the park and a goal to his credit, Farbrother was the Foresters Starman. 

The next game to complete the year is an Intra Club game on the 22nd December, when the Foresters Saplings take on the Foresters mighty Oaks to see who gets the bragging rights as we enter 2024.

AFC Foresters: Wicks, Venditti, Wheeler, Johnson, Hinton (c), Aldridge, Butterfield, Garrett, Farbrother, Rogers, Lee, Tyler, Radford, Ottley.

Match Report: AFC Foresters vs. Southampton Carpathians

Date: Sunday, 10th September

Venue: Hatches Farm Sports Ground Weather: Very warm and humid conditions

AFC Foresters came up short against Southampton Carpathians on Sunday morning, but there were plenty of positives to take from the performance.

The hosts started the game on the front foot and took the lead after 15 minutes. Carpathians never really troubled the Foresters defence, but they equalized with a very scruffy finish and soon took the lead with a hoof into the box that that sailed into the far top corner out of Lyman’s reach.

Foresters were undeterred and soon retook the lead through Ottley. Carpathians equalized again with another untidy finish, but it was Foresters who were playing the better football.

Down 3-2 at half time, Foresters regrouped and on the re start continued playing good possession football. It was Carpathians who tired and started to leave big gaps in midfield. Griffiths and Gradidge did their utmost to dominate, and Foresters created some really good chances. On another day, they would have been home and hosed.

Unfortunately, this gave extra impetus to Carpathians, who added another three goals to their tally. Foresters responded with two, but it was too little too late. The final score 6-5 to Carpathians.

Key Takeaways

• AFC Foresters were once again forced to make several changes to their squad due to injuries, holidays, birthday parties, and the start of the regular football season.

• The hosts started the game well and took the lead, but they were undone by some scruffy goals.

• Foresters created a whole host of really good chances in the second half, but they were unable to take them.

MoM was Lyman who grew into the game and gained more confidence.  Showed bravery throwing himself at the feet of attackers.

AFC Foresters: Lyman, Atkin, Cross, Venditti, Milne, Johnson, Aldridge, Griffiths (c),Whyte, Gradidge, Radford, Ottley, Clark, Prankerd, May, Hinton.

Match Report: AFC Foresters vs. Whitenap

Date: Wednesday, 30th August

Venue: Hatches Farm Sports Ground Weather: Warm conditions

AFC Foresters suffered a heavy defeat to Whitenap on Wednesday evening, but there were plenty of positives to take from the performance.

The hosts were forced to make a number of changes due to injuries and holidays, but they still put out a competitive team. Ryan Foulkes made his debut in goal, while Alfie Moore was handed his first start for AFC Foresters.

The first half was a tight affair, with both sides creating chances. However, it was Whitenap who took the lead in the 25th minute. A corner was not cleared properly and the ball was deemed to have crossed the line according to referee Mr S Wonder.

The referee's decision was controversial, and soon he was to make another bewildering decision judging that Garrett had fouled the attacker and to the amazement of everyone, a penalty was given to make it 2.

The visitors took advantage of Foresters' disorganisation and scored one more before half time.

Foresters regrouped in the second half and played some good football, but they were unable to create any clear-cut chances. Whitenap added two more goals to their tally, but Foresters did get a deserved consolation goal in the closing stages.

The scoreline did not reflect the game, but Foresters can take heart from their performance. Alfie Moore was the stand-out player, putting in a sparkling performance linking up well with his teammates and creating chances.

Manager's Comments:

"I'm proud of the way the players responded in the second half. We played some good football and created chances, but we just couldn't get the ball in the net. We'll take the positives from the game and build on it for next time." - Tim Hinton

News from Hatches is that the board have issued stand-in manager Tim Hinton with a vote of confidence.

AFC Foresters: Foulkes, Cross, Venditti, Green, Moore, Aldridge, Thompson, Payne, Gradidge, Darragh (c), Tyler, Ottley, Clark, Prankerd, 

Match Report: AFC Foresters vs. MVF Eastleigh

Date: Sunday, 2nd July

Venue: Oasis Academy Mayfield Weather: Windy conditions

AFC Foresters took on MVF Eastleigh in an exciting clash on Sunday at Oasis Academy Mayfield. With Foresters  struggling for personnel due to injuries, they fielded a makeshift side, including a stand-in goalkeeper. The pitch conditions were challenging, with an abundance of rubber pellets resembling a fetish convention.

The match kicked off with both teams cautiously sizing each other up. The referee's decision-making raised eyebrows, as some questionable calls seemed to favour the home side.  Foresters had to reshuffle the pack early after Tyler had to be replaced with a calf injury.

Midway through the first half, Eastleigh broke through on the left flank, with their attacker appearing offside, but unsurprisingly the flag stayed down. He managed to clip the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper, giving Eastleigh a 1-0 lead.  

However, Foresters responded strongly to going behind. They quickly equalized when Rogers played a well-weighted through ball for the impressive Garrett, who skillfully nutmegged the keeper with his left-footed swinger. 

The game seemed destined for a halftime draw, but the referee's unusual decisions continued. He awarded Eastleigh a penalty for what appeared to be an innocuous challenge in the box, allowing them to take a 2-1 lead into the break.

Foresters made a few tactical adjustments at the break to turn the tide in their favour, and it did not take long for the changes to have an effect.  Aldridge hauled down on the left led to a free kick.  Rogers fired the ball in for Clark to connect sweeping the ball into the Eastleigh net. The linesman attempted to disallow the goal, but the referee overruled the decision. 

Foresters continued to dominate the second half, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Their deserved lead came when Rogers, who had already provided two assists, got on the scoresheet himself. Foresters continued to threaten Eastleigh's defence and should have been awarded a clear penalty when an Eastleigh defender blocked a through ball with his arm. Unfortunately, the referee failed to spot the infringement.

In the final four minutes, Eastleigh pushed for an undeserved equalizer, creating a frantic end to the game. However, the Foresters defence stood firm, denying Eastleigh any further goals. The match concluded with Foresters emerging victorious with a 3-2 scoreline.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Foresters displayed resilience and determination throughout the match, securing a hard-fought victory against MVF Eastleigh - to cap off the day, the Foresters Quiz team continued their unbeated run, trouncing the opposition at the Wellow Cricket Club Quiz night - making this truly a Super Sunday for the Forestmen...

AFC Foresters: Venditti, Radford, Saunders, Hardingson, May, Filippi, Aldridge, Thompson, Rogers, Garrett (c), Tyler, Abbott, Clark.

In the latest instalment of the AFC Foresters IntraClub matches, played on a hot and steamy early Summer eveing at Ganger Farm, the Blues displayed excellent control and leadership, thanks to the expert marshalling of Milne on the back of a victorius week following the Irons in Prague.

Milne set the tone for the game by winning the toss, giving the Blues an advantageous start and allowing them to dictate the flow of the match. 

With Milne's guidance, the Blues established their dominance and went on to secure a convincing victory. His strategic decisions and ability to command the team contributed significantly to their success on and off the field.

Blue Foresters unleashed their new signing, Mike "Ronnie" Radford, who made an instant impact and earned him the Man of the Match accolade by scoring two on his debut.

Blue Foresters started the game strongly, taking an early 2-0 lead before Ottley of Foresters Red pulled one back after springing the Blues offside trap (helped with no linesman) to make it 2-1. The first half concluded with a narrow 3-1 advantage in favour of Blue Foresters.

In the second half, Blue Foresters managed to extend their lead, gradually pulling away from Foresters Red. The Blues displayed excellent teamwork and clinical finishing,ultimately emerging as 7-2 winners. The score could have been heavier without Foulkes in the Reds goal producing a string of world class saves to keep the Reds in it.

However, the game was not without controversy. Blue Foresters suffered a setback when Saunders received a controversial red card for allegedly hauling down 'Buck' Rogers, who was through on goal.  The Blues were incensed as they felt that Buck went down extremely easily (much like Saints) and with Steve"VAR" Hardingson in the pub, the decision stood.

This incident marred an otherwise spirited contest.  It is understood that Blue Foresters will be appealing the automatic 3 match ban.

Additionally, Foresters Red had to contend with slight injuries to Faul and Ottley, adding to their challenges during the match.

Despite the outcome, the IntraClub game exhibited the talent and determination of both Blue Foresters and Foresters Red. The match highlighted the debut of Mike "Ronnie" Radford as he impressed with his performance and goal-scoring ability. Foresters Red will regroup and aim to bounce back stronger in their next fixture.

Overall, it was another thrilling encounter with moments of controversy and individual brilliance.

With mounting number of injuries, the AFC Foresters medical team will be on double time as the stage is now set for the upcoming eagerly anticipated Summer Sizzler event, where fans can look forward to an exciting display of football where the player can showcase their skills and compete in a festive atmosphere.

On Saturday 27th of May 2023, AFC Foresters welcomed the newly reformed Blackfield & Langley from the ashes of Hythe & Dibdenat Hatches Farm Sports Ground.

In scorching conditions, Blackfield & Langley Vets faced off against Foresters in a highly anticipated match. The Blackfield side, composed of younger players who had previously played for Hythe & Dibden and had clinched the league title two seasons ago, were looking to make their mark once again. Foresters, on the other hand, aimed to put up a strong challenge against their formidable opponents.

The game kicked off with both teams showing early signs of determination. However, an unfortunate turn of events led to Foresters conceding an early penalty. Blackfield capitalized on the opportunity, converting the spot-kick to take an early lead. Undeterred, Foresters continued to press forward, seeking an equalizer.

As the first half progressed, Foresters' efforts paid off when Rob Clark found the back of the net, leveling the scoreline at 1-1. The goal injected renewed confidence into the Foresters' side, and they started to play some impressive football, gradually growing into the game.

However, a costly error in the second half allowed Blackfield to regain the lead. This setback put Foresters on the back foot as the heat began to take its toll on the players. Despite their best efforts to keep up with the pace, Foresters wilted in the scorching conditions, allowing Blackfield to capitalize on their fatigue.

In the final 15 minutes of the match, Foresters conceded three more goals, ultimately succumbing to a 1-5 defeat. The result did not reflect the overall contest, as Foresters had put up a valiant effort against a skilled Blackfield side. The heat played a significant role in shaping the outcome, as the conditions took a toll on the players' energy levels.

Despite the loss, Foresters can take away positives from the game, particularly their resilience and the quality of football they showcased as the match progressed. Blackfield & Langley Vets proved to be a formidable opponent, highlighting the competitive nature of the match.

Overall, it was a well-contested game, with both teams demonstrating their determination and skill. Blackfield emerged victorious with a convincing scoreline, but Foresters showed glimpses of their potential, promising better performances in the future.

The only black spot on the day was a nasty injury to Martin Green which puts him out for around 6 weeks missing the next Intra Club game and the upcoming Summer Sizzler Tournament - we wish him a speedy recovery.

AFC Foresters: Hildon,, Wheeler, Hinton (c), Johnson, Faul, Garrett, Green, Payne, Gradidge, Ottley, Clark, Davidson, Tyler, Cross, Venditti.

On Sunday 14th of May 2023, AFC Foresters and Netley Marsh faced off in their first ever meeting at Hatches Farm Sports Ground, on a rare scorchio day in 2023. It was a closely contested match, with AFC Foresters ultimately coming out on top winning 3-2.

After the early exchanges, both teams soon adapted to the hard bumpy surface and overly long grass, but it was Marsh who took the lead early in the game. Foresters undaunted pressed forward and the pressure soon told when at a corner an ariel challenge from the impressive Johnson led to a Marsh defender putting into his own net.  The game ebbed to and frow but at half time neither side could add to ther tally going in on level terms.

The second half brought on much the same as the tail end of the first period with neither side able to edge in front, but midway through the half it was Marsh that regained the lead following a sweeping move down their left side, culminating with a well constructed tap in for the rushing in Marsh forward.

This only galvanised Foresters, and chasing down a lost cause, Green was rewarded with his efforts by charging down the Marsh ‘keepers attempted clearance resulting in the ball rolling in to the unguarded net.

With the game level again, and the clock ticking down, both teams pressed for what would surely be the winner, and with 10 minutes to go, the clincher came from a somewhat unlikely source, and, following a Foresters corner, Garrett rose majestically to thump home an unstoppable header past the Marsh keeper to register and claim the win for the Forestmen. 

The game was played in good spirit with no injuries to either side, and Garrett was the only player to blot his copybook with a yellow card.  Minette the Foresters keeper once again put in a commanding performance when called upon,with a number of great saves to keep the opposition at bay.

Overall, a well contested game, but it was AFC Foresters' on the back of their recent European excursion that helped them return to winning ways, and they will surely look to build on this result in their next game against Blackfield in a fortnight.

AFC Foresters: Minette, Atkin, Hinton (c), Johnson, Faul, Rogers, Payne, Venditti, Garrett, Ottley, Clark, Cross, Whyte, Hardingson, Green, Unwin (still injured).

Ferregem put on a dominant performance against AFC Foresters in a match played at the Campo de Futebol de Vale do Lobo, Portugal. 

The veteran Portugese ex-pros from Benfica, Sporting, and Newcastle United (!) showed their quality against a team of not quite ex-pros from England who fair to say had had probably less than 8 hours sleep between them since arriving in Portugal.

Despite early exchanges, Ferregem began to take control of the game and showed their class on the field. The carpet like pitch was in excellent condition, and the hot weather did not deter either team from giving it their all.

At halftime, the score was already 5-1 in favour of the home side, with Ottley scoring the lone goal for AFC Foresters. The second half was much of the same affair, with Ferregem continuing to dominate play and score goals seemingly at will, although Ottley scored again for the visitors, the final scoreline was 10-2 in favor of Ferregem.

This victory comes on the back of a previous win for Ferregem against a Bradford City ex-pro select, which shows their continued form and dominance on the pitch.

Overall, it was a convincing performance by Ferregem, who put on a clinic with their skills and teamwork. Despite the result, AFC Foresters can hold their heads up high and be proud of their efforts against a team of such high calibre.

AFC Foresters (L to R): Unwin (injured), Faul, May, Stiles, Saunders, Johnson, Fielden, Milne (c), Filippi, Dowse, Tyler, Ottley, Cordeiro, Stevenson, Clark, Whyte, Whittall, Venditti.

The latest instalment of the AFC Foresters Intra-club match was played at Ganger Farm on Friday 21st April as Hatches was still underwater due to the recent heavy rains.

The match between Foresters Red and Blue Foresters is always an exciting and closely fought contest, and this game proved no different, with both teams evenly matched. However, it was Blue Foresters who were able to convert their chances better, taking a 3-2 lead into half-time.

In the second half, Blue Foresters continued to dominate the game, playing with greater cohesion and scoring at regular intervals. Despite their best efforts, Foresters Red were unable to mount a comeback, and the game ended with a final score of 10-4 in favor of Blue Foresters.

Following the match, some members of the team will be representing Club and Country in a match against Ferregem in Portugal next week. This promises to be an interesting challenge, and the players will need to be focused and disciplined to perform at their best.

The next Intra-club match will take place on Friday, 9th June at Hatches Sports Ground, and will be played on grass. Fans can look forward to another exciting encounter between Foresters Red and Blue Foresters, as they continue to showcase their skills and passion for the game.

Reds: Hildon, Atkin, Unwin, Faul, Saunders, Johnson, Griffiths, Whyte, Gradidge, Darragh, Tyler, Cross.

Blues: Foulkes, Parfitt, Hinton, Green, Milne, Aldridge, Venditti, Payne, Garrett, Ottley, Rogers

The Reds would have wanted to keep things tight and show their quality in moments throughout the game but after a cagey start, it was the Blues who carved out the first opening springing on a counter attack from a Reds corner with a slick move resulting in Ottley adding to his Foresters tally.

The opener diminished any confidence for the Reds, and failing to clear a Blues corner, the balled dropped invitingly for Venditti who could hardly miss to make it two.

The Blues continued to dominate the game but it was the Reds who came closest to adding to the score first by hitting the upright soon to be followed with Unwin crashing a towering header against the bar with Foulkes beaten.

This seemed to spur the Blues on though and again a quick incisive move put Rogers through who tucked the ball away to extend their lead.

The Reds then settled down and started gaining in confidence from the early setbacks,  the Blues were pegged back and pressure eventually told with Gradidge getting the Reds up and running pulling one goal back.

With the 1st half drawing to a close, a Blues corner was not dealt with and under pressure from the returning Clark, saw Unwin turn the ball into his own net at the near post.

After the break both sides continued to try and impose their superiority, The Reds deperate to get back into the game and the Blues looking to control the match, but it was the Reds that started to dominate, with Gradidge adding to his earlier goal.  Ottley netted for the Blues and again the Reds came back with Stephens getting in on the action with a goal for the Reds. 

Margins were small and the Blues never really got away from the Reds, and it always felt that the Reds could get back into the game, and with the Reds pushing to make the final stages nervy for the Blues, Payne volled in from a Rogers cross on the right to make the final score 6 -3.

Next up for Foresters is a return to the Friday Football schedule with the next installment of the Reds v Blues Intra Club rivalry scheduled for Saturday 8th April at 3pm and a return to grass at the Hatches Farm Sports Ground.

On an unusually balmy February evening, Foresters returned to competitive action with a rematch against Hurstborne at the Charlton Athletic Stadium Ground in Andover. 

In an unprecedented move the newly formed team selection committee met in a dark smokey room In the Rover to set out a game plan to take on the upcoming opponents, and for the first time the team was announced well in advance. 

Keen to ensure that they did not succumb to the same capitulation as had been witnessed in the previous game against the same opponents, when Foresters were 5 down within the first 15 minutes, the team were well prepared for the inevitable early exchanges.

The defence this time were expertly marshalled by centre backs Hinton and Johnson, and they were ably assisted with the Foresters two youngsters, Aldridge on the left and Thompson on the right side easily adapting to the physicality of the game, and as the match went on grew into their new roles. 

There was nothing between the sides for the first 20 minutes with both sides probing, then with a soft free kick awarded for a foul on the right side of the Foresters defence, the resultant free kick missed everybody and gently drifted into the far corner of the net.

Undeterred, Foresters were soon on the front foot pushing Hurstbourne back, playing the ball to feet, Foresters forged an opening on the right and Gradidge’s shot was too hot to handle for the Hurstbourne keeper and the ball nestled into the goal.

On the restart, it was Foresters this time on the back foot as Hurstbourne tried to impose themselves, but with the Foresters midfield comfortable and the defence screened by Griffiths, it would take something freakish or sublime to unlock the Foresters defence, but it was the former that did for Foresters, and a through ball by Hurstbourne took a number of ricochets, landing with the ball at the feet of their centre forward who was through on goal, a rushing Hildon could not quite get to it as the ball just crept in by the post, 2-1 to Hurstbourne.

Again, Foresters looked to impose themselves and with some delightful football, pressure was put onto the Hurstbourne defence, and unable to clear, the ball came out to Garrett who calmly slotted the ball home.

With half time looming, a break from Hurstbourne and another soft goal was conceded – half time 3 – 2 to Hurstbourne.

The Foresters changes were all made seamlessly, Ottley, Darragh, Stiles, Stephens, Tyler, Garrett, Gradidge and Easton comfortably rolling on and off to keep the opponents thinking and a fluid formation change from 4 -1 - 4 -1 to a 4 – 1 – 3 – 2, however, inevitably they were always chasing the game. 

With Foresters pushing for the equaliser, and Hurstbourne looking to catch them on the break with the long ball over the top, Hurstbourne edged 2 ahead with another scrambled finish after a fantastic stop by Hildon pushing a shot on to the bar but the rebound fell to a Hurstbourne attacker and with a player blocking Hildon’s view, the ball rolled into the net.

Foresters are made of sterner stuff these days and again took the game to Hurstbourne, with Griffiths now dictating the game, he was now pushing further forward and a Hurstbourne scruffy clearance dropped to his feet and he smashed it into the Hurstbourne net, 4 – 3.

With time running out, Foresters pressed for a deserved equaliser and only some last ditch defending against Easton stopped him from opening his Foresters account.

In the dying moments of the game another long ball clearance fell fortuitously to a Hurstbourne attacker and again the ball crept agonisingly into the Foresters net.

Foresters can definitely count themselves unlucky to have come away empty handed.

Full time Hurstbourne 5, Foresters 3.