Hallam Football Club

Parkgate vs Hallam

Two landmarks aren't usually reached in one day, today I was going to my 100th Hallam game and going to my 50th different ground.

I arrived nearly 30 minutes late for the game and unfortunately didn't grab a full team line up. The score is 0-0, after good build up play Parkgate had a chance when number 7 snatched a shot and it was goalbound until Martin Kearney caught it well to his left. Hallam struggled to get into the game with the Steelmen creating the better of the play.

Half - Time at Green Lane - Parkgate 0 Hallam 0

Parkgate came out and looked the same as they did in the first half, 4 having his vicious effort blocked before 7 hit a shot across the face of goal and out for a goalkick. New signing Liam Kay was looking a threat and after his set up Hallam fired a deflected shot over the bar, Kay then turned from the resultant corner and smacked his shot over the bar. Scott Bates then went close on 55 with a header that crept wide but Richard Patterson's 22 yarder was well caught by the Parkgate keeper.

A neat one two by 7 and 8 resulted in 7's thundering effort being cleared off the line then just 3 minutes later the 7 was in the thick of it again, a 25 yard belter being superbly clawed out by Kearney in the Hallam goal. Hallam weren't without threat in an action packed second half, Richard Carrington played the ball in off the right, Tevendale knocked it down and Patterson fired centimetres over the Parkgate bar. Almost 1 minute later Liam Kay tried chipping the Parkgate keeper from 12 yards only to see the shot being well caught under the bar.

On 68 the Parkgate winger looped a ball into the box into Ryan Johnson who volleyed just over. Within 90 seconds of that Johnson had a goal, a mistake in the Hallam backline allowed 7 to slide a ball into Johnson who hesitated then lashed into the corner, 1-0 Parkgate. Johnson was then unlucky not to get his second, a corner allowed him to have a free header 12 yards out but Kearney tipped it away.

Parkgate were looking the better side and 2-0 looked more likely than 1-1, the youth of the Parkgate side was ripping Hallam to pieces. Tevendale curled one out of the ground when he had time and space to get his effort on target. Richard Carrington minutes later played a ball into the box, after a goal mouth scramble it fell at Carrington's feet and he drove home the equaliser from 12 yards!

The game then saw its second mass brawl, for no reason at all 20 players started fighting on the near side, Ryan Johnson ran 50 yards to join in and after much debating by the referee and his two assistants Johnson was shown a red card for something nobody actually saw. Johnson was already off the pitch by the time the red was brandished, this lead to part of the 6 minutes stoppage time played.

Full - Time at Green Lane - Parkgate 1 Hallam 1

Verdict: A very good game, not a bad one for the 100th but it wasn't a win and Parkgate were the better side. We need to improve.

Parkgate vs Hallam

Two landmarks aren't usually reached in one day, tod

Alsager Town vs Hallam F.C

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Kearney, 2) David Knaggs, 3) Phil Reynolds, 4) Craig Marsh, 5) Karl Colley, 6) Richard Patterson, 7) Richard Carrington, 8) Carl Smith ??, 9) Rob Ward, 10) Scott Bates, 11) Darren Holmes - Hallam subs: Didn't actually get them, Alsager had no tannoy! 12) James Tevendale

Hallam kicked off left to right attacking the Medical Room End, surprisingly Alsager started quite the better and had the first attempt on goal, a wild 20 yard shot that flew out of the ground. Rob Ward had Hallam's first effort on 9, a ball over the back four played him in and his vicious strike was parried, from the resulting corner Karl Colley forced the keeper to tip over his goalbound header. Darren Holmes and Richard Carrington both curled 25 yard efforts with their left feet within 40 seconds of each other, Holmes shot was caught and Carrington's parried as Hallam looked the far better side.

It seemed though that as per usual Hallam would sit back for a bit and so Hallam did. A weak Reynolds back pass played in 10 whose poor effort was saved by Kearney's legs. At this point 8 went off for Hallam and on came 14, presumably a forced change rather than tactical. The mini flag I had blu tacked to the back of Alsager's near side terrace came down and putting it back up seemed more interesting than a 10 minute actionless passage of the half.

I'm now used to surprises watching Hallam but conceded after 26 minutes ranked as one of the biggest surprises, a free kick from 40 yards missed everyone until Dean Clarke lashed in at the back post. 1-0 Alsager Town. Until this point Alsager had been terrible, though the FA Vase has never been a competition for faint hearted. Rob Ward lashed wide from 12 yards as Hallam failed to reassert charge of the game. 9 headed over in the remaining seconds of the first half, most in the ground wondering how Hallam weren't at least level.

Half - Time at The Town Ground - Alsager Town 1 Hallam F.C 0

Hallam's start to the second half was fantastic, within 6 minutes we were level, a Darren Holmes cross headed into the middle of the goal by Rob Ward, 1-1!! Hallam's spell of 15 minutes or so ended up counting for nothing. A high cross from 40 yards off the right wing by Kurt McCarthy floated over absolutely everyone and ended up in the top right hand corner, it was like slow motion and Ronaldinho-esque! 2-1 Alsager Town. Martin Kearney was in action to prevent a 3rd, a save with his legs from 10 before 10 fired the rebound to Far Far Away.

The 5 minute spell Alsager had was quickly forgotten about, a searching cross off the wing was headed into the far corner by Richard Patterson from 12 yards, 2-2! Pattie also got Hallam level at 2-2 during the Winsford game and again he had helped Hallam greatly. James Tevendale replaced Rob Ward with 20 minutes to go and a chance for Tev to get at the shaky looking Alsager backline. Darren Holmes sliced into the side netting with 10 minutes to go and the dramatics of Winsford United looked very unlikely. Alsager clipped the bar with 6 minutes left and the anxiety was building. Hallam were 2-2 against an Alsager team that looked dangerous upfront. James Tevendale got his first chance since coming on as his header was tame and rolled wide.

Full - Time at The Town Ground - Alsager Town 2 Hallam F.C 2

In the first half of extra time the tiredness of both sides showed the only chance being when Tevendale had a strike pushed away on 94. Little could be said about a game headed for a replay

After the 1st Half of Extra Time at The Town Ground - Alsager Town 2 Hallam F.C 2

Neither side really improved and the extra half hour had done neither side any good. Alsager headed over with 113 minutes gone. Both sides failed to create anything else and any movement upfront was a false hope of avoiding a replay

Full - Time After Extra Time at The Town Ground - Alsager Town 2 Hallam F.C 2

Verdict: I'm not going to lie and say a replay was a fair result on the balance of 90 minutes. Hallam deserved to go home after 90 minutes through, we didn't convert chances but attacked well and looked promising. As a whole though a replay was probably fair and an advantage to us rather than them.

Hallam vs Mickleover Sports

Hallam line up: 1) Martin Taylor, 2) Chris Siddall, 3) Wes Hill, 4) Andy Brownrigg, 5) Rob Ward, 6) Gavin Hunter, 7) Richard Patterson, 8) Carl Smith, 9) Scott Bates, 10) Matt Griffin, 11) Darren Holmes. On the bench: 12) David Knaggs, 14) James Tevendale, 15) Ryan O'Carroll

It was Hallam starting the brighest against Sports, Scott Bates cut inside from the right wing and placed a low shot beyond the Mickleover keeper... 1-0 HALLAM!!! Three minutes gone and Hallam were flying ahead already. Just 7 minutes later though it was 1-1, a jink into the box by ?? who eased past two Hallam defenders to fire into the top corner, a fantastic strike, not sure about the defending though. Gavin Hunter on 31 had a good chance, his vicious 25 yard effort just glided past the post. Martin Taylor was called into action when 3rd goalscorer hit an angled shot, Tails tipped it over towards the line however the centre half on the line cleared for Hallam to stop a second.

There did appear to be a turning point on 36, on first thoughts I described it as a harsh and unlucky red card, Jack Coulson jumped in late, two footed on Pattie, it was dangerous, late and wreckless. A deserved red card, Sports down to 10. Carl Smith's free-kick drifted wide

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1 Mickleover Sports 1

With little of the second half gone Darren Holmes twice had chances, a left foot shot that flew over then a shot from the edge of the box that again went over the bar. Sports then created quite possibly the best of the 83 goals I've seen this season, a fantastic 30 yard thunderbolt off the right wing from ?? into the top right hand corner. It was so good I'd rate it as the best of the 324 goals I've seen watching Hallam. Batesy equalised on 57 though, curling into the far corner, the linesman put his flag up when he was onside and the goal didn't stand, still 2-1 Sports. In my opinion an equaliser denied and a turning point.

Knaggsy came on for Gav in the middle and at first it didn't make much impact, 14 curled over from 25 yards. Matt Griffin headed over from a corner and this game was slipping out of Hallam's grasp, lightning couldn't strike twice in a week could it? Saying that all hopes of a comeback were totally ruined when ?? headed into the top left hand corner from a right wing cross - 3-1 Mickleover. Mickleover then got another, a superb 25 yard belter into the top left hand corner, Tails totally beaten. Martin Taylor helpless for all four goals, inept marking to blame.

David Knaggs started Hallam's late fluffy of efforts, a dipping 20 yard left foot volley hitting the bar then Rob Ward turn and shot from 20 yards only to find Sports keeper in the way. Darren Holmes left foot strike was tipped onto the post before James Tevendale's follow up was saved. Luck wasn't on Hallam's side. Defeat it was

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1 Mickleover Sports 4

Verdict: My report and summary in Latest News says it all. WE NEED TO MARK BETTER

Hallam vs Winsford United

Hallam line up: 1) Martin Taylor, 2) Gavin Hunter, 3) Darren Holmes, 4) Richard Patterson, 5) Rob Ward, 6) Carl Smith, 7) Richard Carrington, 8) Andrew Brownrigg, 9) Scott Bates, 10) Matt Griffin, 11) Chris Siddall  Hallam Subs: 12) James Tevendale, 14) Rob Cam, 15) Ryan O Carroll, 16) Wes Hill, 17) David Knaggs

Winsford kicked off and played up the slope in the first half in their Dark Orange and Black kit. Winsford started the first 5 minutes the better with a free-kick being headed wide at the back-post. Unfortunately for them Hallam looked very lively and a Richard Carrington free kick on 8 got deflected towards the top left of the goal but somehow the Winsford keeper clawed the ball away. Carrington was in the thick of the action again on 15 but his diving header trickled past the post.

That man again Richard Carrington was involved in the first absolute definite chance, his cross hit the bar and bounced out and was met by ?? whose header rolled into the corner - 1-0 HALLAM!! After that Winsford's 7 blazed over on the angle, Darren Holmes fired over from 20 yards and Scott Bates twice tested the keeper with low efforts. Winsford had the last shot of an action packed first half, 7 thundering a 35 yard shot that Martin Taylor could only push away

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1 Winsford United 0

Hallam started for the first minutes of the second half anyway, a Gavin Hunter cross was headed just inches from goal, smacking the bar and coming out. Winsford got themselves an equaliser with arguably the best goal of the game a 20 yard shot on the angle curling to the top left corner past Martin Taylor - 1-1. This feat was almost repeated just 10 minutes later but 6 curled his effort over the crossbar.

Hallam look really uncomfortable and in comparison to the first half looked poor, seconds after I said it Winsford scored another, a shot from 20 yards was diverted past Martin Taylor and bounced in - 2-1 Winsford United. Hallam looked totally beaten, Rob Ward had a goal ruled out for offside and the 4th October looked like an Arnold day not an Alsager day. Batesy fired at the keeper after a smart turn with Winsford pushing for a 3rd.

The last 10 minutes looked to be a case of finding an equaliser and head for extra time...Richard Patterson had other ideas as he hit an unstoppable 20 yard effort on the angle into the top left corner 2-2!! Hallam were back in it and extra-time seemed likely, Winsford looked more likely to win it from there and with 2 minutes to go had Hallam pinned in their own half. A quick ball through caught the Winsford backline out and James Tevendale raced through and slotted into the corner - 3-2 HALLAM!! ALSAGERBOUND!! The whole ground erupted as Hallam grabbed a possible winner. The referee signalled 2 minutes extra and despite the Winsford pressure and 4 minutes more played Hallam held out!

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 3 Winsford United 2

Verdict: The absolute best comeback I've seen, Hallam to come from 2-1 down and out of it to win was fantastic, perhaps lucky but definitely over 90 minutes deserved

My Man of The Match: Richard Carrington, he was everywhere and played very well.

Long Eaton United vs Hallam F.C

Hallam came into the game on fantastic league form unlike Long Eaton who had very inconsistent form coming into the game.

Hallam kicked left to right in their new Red and Black away kit looking from the Big Jim stand and it was Hallam who had the best of the early chances. A low shot was from 6 yards was pushed away by the keeper. But it was the Blues who took the lead. No 9’s ball in found Alex Steadman who turned and lashed the ball beyond Hallam’s keeper for 1-0 after just 10 minutes.

Neither side could assert authority over the match and a scrappy affair ensued. Hallam’s play was uninspiring and Long Eaton looked dismal themselves. Hallam’s best chance of the half came when Richard Carrington’s volley from 12 yards from a Tevendale cross was beaten away by the keeper. Other than that Rob Ward should of done better just before half-time as his shot from 25 yards was caught low.

Half – Time at Grange Park – Long Eaton United 1 Hallam 0

Half-Time Verdict: Despite our dominance in terms of possession we are unable to turn possession into chances.

I'll not make it up really, the second half was totally chanceless. Long Eaton got their second just on the hour as Adam Newton turned in Alex Steadman's cross, it was pretty much game over but to be fair Long Eaton didn't look a brilliant side. With around 17 minutes remaining one Long Eaton and one Hallam player tangled in the middle of the pitch, the Hallam player down on the floor was kicked by Long Eaton's 11 who not only got the free-kick didn't get punished for his violent conduct.

The game was sliding away not before Chris Wood knocked the ball in after a goalmouth scramble it was game on again and with the one of the last kick's of the game Rob Ward smashed a shot into the outside of the post.

Full – Time at Grange Park – Long Eaton United 2 Hallam 1

Verdict: To follow

 

Hallam vs Retford United

Hallam’s line up included several familiar faces and some new signings as Matt Griffin and Richard Patterson both started in defence and midfield respectively

Hallam kicked the first Sandygate game of the pre-season campaign off and kicked from right to left down the slope. Early on there was nothing much to talk about as both sides had their share of possession and the notable chance a Retford shot from around 20 yards flying over the bar

On 15 Hallam’s 11 whipped a volley over before 6 flashed a header across the face of goal. They were half chances but unlucky as Hallam had a fair share of possession. Retford almost took the lead on 27 as a tantalising ball flew in and 4 slide in under pressure from the Hallam centre half’s his 6 yard effort crashed off the bar and came out.

With half an hour gone Retford looked the more likely to score and got a big chance as 11 was hacked to the floor in the box, the referee pointed to the spot with any hesitation. ___ ran up put the ball to Martin Taylor’s left and saw his poor shot pushed away back into open play. Will Tomlinson against his old club then almost gave Retford the lead as he turned and thundered a shot across the goal only to find the bar in the way of his effort.

This pressure and effort from Retford counted for nothing as Scott Bates was played in, he turned inside and slotted the ball inside the near post, 1-0 Hallam

Half – Time at Sandygate – Hallam 1 Retford United 0

Scorer: Scott Bates, 40

The second half started the way the first did as neither side seemed desperate to get forward. Hallam made two half-time subs James Tevendale and Sheffield’s Rob Ward coming on upfront. On the hour Retford should have taken the lead as Hallam’s defence fell to sleep a vicious shot from 12 yards on the angle flashed wide of the post with most of the Badger’s following thinking it was in.

With 21 minutes remaining Hallam had made 6 subs, Rob Cam, Thomas Kytolo, Gavin Hunter and Billy Rowley all entered the field of play. Retford hopefully placed a ball over the top most expecting it to come to nothing but somehow it was flicked over Martin Taylor and into the top right of Hallam’s net for 1-1.

An awful mistake in Hallam’s defence allowed 9 to whizz down the left wing unfortunately he went too far down the pitch and when he did shoot his effort was repelled by the on rushing Taylor.

The referee appeared to be making quite a few questionable decisions and on 79 minutes his worst for the better. Rob Cam burst into the box and had appeared to be brought down by the centre half a penalty was given Rob Ward stepped up and placed it to the keeper’s right, until Retford were ready to take kick off I didn’t realise we’d scored....2-1 Hallam.

For all their effort Retford couldn’t create much after the second goal as a resilient Hallam defence withstood all pressure. The referee blew up without any stoppage time and Hallam had won deservedly albeit in controversial circumstances

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 2 Retford United 1

Scorers: Scott Bates 40, James Tevendale 79. Will Tomlinson 69

Verdict: Despite the 6 subs in the second half Hallam won and looked comfortable defending a lead. Justice wasn't served entirely, Retford missed a penalty after a clear foul and Hallam scored a penalty after a questionable decision. But on the balance of the 90 minutes Hallam definitely deserved the 2-1 win and look top 3 material.

Hallam vs Bottesford Town

Hallam's recent good form included the fact of having not conceded in 4 matches and having convincingly won every one of those 4 games a new challenge was ahead with the visit of Bottesford Town, 2nd in Division One with an average away record.

Hallam kicked off from right to left kicking towards the open end of the ground, the game started without real incident. The only thing that was noticeable was the incoming fog coming from the Sandygate Road end of the ground, taking everyone by surprise and the statement 'Fog, could lead to A-A' been written down. On 17 minutes a James Tevendale free-kick,  David Beckham standard was superbly tipped over the top. As we approached the half-hour a yellow ball was thrown on, in all honesty it made no difference!

Just after the half-hour Hallam got a richly deserved goal, a crossfield ball straight to David Knaggs who took a touch before slamming it into the bottom right hand corner 1-0 HALLAM!! Within 100 seconds this advantage was doubled, a James Tevendale free-kick parried into the path of Andrew Wood! 2-0 HALLAM! The only noticeable chance before half  time was a slip by Andrew Wood and a turn followed by a fantastic strike from 25 yards that flew inches over the bar.

In terms of fog, only a small portion of the pitch was fog covered and it had stopped drifting in the ground

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 2 Bottesford Town 0

Over half time conditions got worse, 5 minutes before the start of the half the fog had returned. The half barely got going as both sides battled for a goal, after 53 minutes the referee noticing the conditions had got worse blew up. 10 minutes was given. I went out the ground, came back in and the pitch was 90% fog covered. The referee blew up again, the players exited the pitch

Hallam vs Bottesford Town - ABANDONED

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam A-A Bottesford Town

Verdict: As bitterly dissappointing it was to see the game abandoned I did see a Hallam side that could of thumped Bottesford. The chances were well taken and I think the abandonment favours us more. They have a 52 mile trek to make next Wednesday. Funnily enough despite the fog the normal 35 minute journey back to the High Peak took just 28 minutes, .

Just to note I can't go Wednesday's game against Bottesford due to other commitments.

Hallam vs Thackley

Although Hallam had exited the FA Cup, the Vase and League prospects were still big and success could still be drawn. Thackley had conceded 23 in just 4 away league games and hopes weren't looking up for them

Hallam's line up: 1) Scott Dinnigan  2) David Knaggs  3) Ben Cressey  4) John Drennan  5) Rob Burton  6) Chris Dickman  7) Richard Carrington  8) Andrew Wood  9) Rob Cam  10) Scott Bates  11) Billy Rowley

The Reds kicked off in a very Rotherham United like kit and attacked the North End of the ground. The home side started the brightest and almost scored after Ben Cressey's wonderful cross was notched up at the far-post only to see a linesman who had put his flag up. Despite recent results in the league away from home Thackley didn't look a bad side and did attack in spells. The deadlock was smashed open as a mistake in the Thackley defence allowed Andrew Wood to walk the ball in - 1-0 Hallam! 

Seconds later a break down the right wing allowed Chris Dickman to lash the ball beyond the keeper - 2-0 Hallam! Not long after specialist free-kick taker Richard Carrington saw hit superb effort tipped over and out for a corner. David Knaggs ball in was punched away but Rob Cam smacked a volley which the keeper just about caught. Thackley's Dave Woffenden hit a powerful strike across the face of goal only to watch it go out for goal kick.

All in a ten minute spell had Hallam scored two and were pushing for a third and Ben Cressey's mazy run and pass found Rob Cam who hit a blistering strike which was beaten away by the keeper. At this point pre match expectations of a good win were going well and Hallam took a comfortable lead into half-time

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 2-0 Thackley

The second half was far, far from good. Both sides attacked at will and who ever scored next would probably win. Richard Carrington struck a free-kick that went over the Thackley crossbar and maybe, just maybe Hallam could increase an already good 2-0 lead. The half was scrappy in patches and uncertainity & anxiousness was hanging over the fact Hallam were defending deeper by the second. A spell of substitutions saw Ben Cressey being taken off with what looked to a be a serious injury. Thackley put the ball into the box and after three shots at goal it was cleared,  a Hallam man had to dive across the line to stop a goal during that spell.

A No 6 shot that looked to be going wide cannoned off David Knaggs' knee and it was curtains. 15 minutes of stress as Thackley pushed for an equaliser, as I was writing "How Thackley aren't drawing is a mystery" Thackley did score Phil Holmes nodded in at the back post - 2-2! Speaking to a Thackley fan just about everyone knew what would happen next. Then the feeling of would it be the first draw in 75 weeks at Sandygate, nobody actually knew.

In the 4th minute of stoppage time (the 89th minute) Richard Carrington was the strike a free-kick around 30 yards from goal to potentially win the match, it was struck hit and hard but smacked off the crossbar! Thackley counter attacked entering the 6th minute of stoppage time and a low shot was slotted beyond Scott Dinnigan! 3-2 Thackley! The drawing hoodoo continued, Thackley had beaten Hallam and still it would 4 years before Hallam next had the chance to beat Thackley.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 2-3 Thackley

Verdict: Like everyone else in the ground I left in shock. Total shock. My mate who supports Woodley rung me up to tell me Horden C.W had been taken apart 5-0 and they were through further in the FA Cup. Funnily enough I moaned to him about losing today! I'm not going to slate Hallam at all, I won't do that. Most people who went today didn't even realise I was at Sandygate today, I went to make notes and write a report on this match.

MMOTM: I'm not sure to be honest, I didn't see anyone who stood out beyond the rest. For even considering Player & Goal of the Month I need to attend more matches.

 

 

Hallam vs Sheffield F.C

This was to be biggest Sheffield derby in 18 months since the two giants battled it out at Hillsborough, probably the biggest Hallam vs Sheffield game in years. Finally spilt apart by a league, 150 years of Sheffield F.C and 147 years of Hallam & Sandygate. 297 years of combined history and a trophy as big the UEFA Cup was to be the winners award. Over 300 were out to see this match

Hallam's line up: 1) Nicky Scaife  2) David Knaggs  3) Gareth Clayton  4) Phil Reynolds  5) Ben Cressey  6) Adam Tyler  7) Andrew Wood  8) Richard Carrington  9) Will Tomlinson  10) Rob Cam  11) Danny Bainbridge

The Hallam team included 7 new faces and Nicky Scaife was back at Sandygate for the first time since leaving the squad for Rossington Main in 2006. It really was a snail slow start, little action but with Hallam looking brighter than their Dronfield based opponents. Phil Reynolds went close for Hallam after good work from David Knaggs and Adam Tyler worked the ball in from the left but Will Tomlinson's tame effort left the keeper to pick up the ball.

Hallam were awarded a free-kick around 30 yards out and Richard Carrington ran in and hit an explosive shot, round the wall and low into the corner - 1-0 HALLAM!! Not long after did Sheffield score with a tap in or should I say walk in from 3 yards. The half ended not long after and it was all to play for

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-1 Sheffield F.C

Half - Time Report: Yet another good performance by a fiery Hallam squad, were have played two Unibond sides and given them a hard first half. The main threat is Vill Powell though.

Hallam came out the starting blocks like a new world record was being attempted with Danny Bainbridge's lob missing my about 3 inches! 55 minutes came and Will Tomlinson stormed through an smashed the keeper up with a fierce shot.  30 seconds later Vill Powell's 30 yard lob was cleared off the line and the ball ended up going out of the ground - never to be seen again. Rob Cam, a player with some pace blitzed down the wing and his 12 yard effort was tipped just over the bar for a corner. With 12 minutes left a corner was given as the keeper ran out of play with the ball, as mad as it seems he blasted the ball onto Sandygate Road and wasn't even booked.

 

 

 

 

 

Ossett Albion vs Hallam F.C.

Hallam's third game of pre-season and my first. The 1 hour 15 trek across the Pennines for myself over to Ossett between Dewsbury and Wakefield. It was to be a tough game against high opposition. Ossett is home to three sides Town, Common Rovers and Albion. Half expecting it to be off, it was on with the pitch in superb condition despite recent rain

Hallam's line up: 1) Nicky Scaife  2) David Knaggs  3) Gareth Clayton  4) John Drennan  5) Phil Reynolds  6) Adam Tyler  7) Danny Bainbridge  8) Chris Dickman  9) Ryan O'Carroll  10) Will Tomlinson  11) Rob Cam 

Hallam started the encounter off and kicked towards the large terrace behind the goal. Ossett were the brighter of the sides showing they are a Unibond side but couldn't break through a tough opposition defence. On 21 minutes Ossett should have scored several times but were denied by a flawless Hallam backline. The biggest surprise was to see a referee that seemed to give Hallam free-kick's and corner's at free will.

End of the First Quarter at Queens Terrace - Ossett Albion 0-0 Hallam F.C.

The second quarter started with Hallam attacking the small stand behind the goal which was supported by about 40 poles! Rob Cam received the ball on the right from a fanastic crossfield ball, strolled into the box and lashed the ball beyond the keeper who seemed dismayed at a lack of defending. Will Tomlinson who stands at over 6ft managed to loop a header over the keeper from a free-kick off the right - 2-0 Hallam!! I was told not to expect much more and that it was a precarious lead. I couldn't seem to understand that as Hallam barricaded Ossett inside their own box and Rob Cam yet again scored with a detonating volley that hit ricocheted off a defender, past a despairing keeper and into the top corner! 3-0 Hallam!

Half - Time at Queens Terrace - Ossett Albion 0-3 Hallam F.C

Half -Time Report - When you travel from across the Pennines like myself to attend Hallam matches then you discover that something big is needed to encourage you to keep going to games. At this stage we had annilhilated a Unibond League side with 3 goals in 19 minutes, more or less winning the game at half time, I could sense more was to come.

The third quarter began like the first and was rather actionless but with Ossett not only bringing out 11 new faces onto the pitch, they came on in a different kit!  Anthony Wilson set out on a venture down the left wing, showing off with Ronaldinho like skills, beating several defenders and rolled a cross in only described as light-hearted, saying that nobody laughed when Adan Tyler stormed in, got infront of the defender and rolled the ball in.

It was time to say that another goal was very likely and another 2 wasn't out of the spectrum. Hallam won a free kick 30 yards out and Gareth Clayton left the keeper dejected when the ball hit the top of the wall and ended up in far corner. You could tell that Ossett thought it was sheer dumb luck but there was no dumb luck from the 5-0 scoreline.

Hallam were in a prolonged attack until the 90th minute when after managing to miss from 6 yards about 5 times and Nicky Scaife made how many double save's did Ossett score - a 3 yard shot that almost missed the target

End of the 3rd Quarter at Queens Terrace - Ossett Albion 1-5 Hallam F.C.

Ossett actually attempted to blitz the Hallam goal with shots for the best part of 15 minutes but you always had the feeling Hallam would spring up a couple more goals. It almost came, the last 5 minutes belonged to Hallam as a burst upfield led to the away side invading the Ossett backline with a constant fluffy of shots at goal.

Full - Time at Queens Terrace (after 120 minutes) Ossett Albion 1-5 Hallam F.C.

Verdict: I wrote this report after the Sheffield F.C. game and now the new players involved in the match have been signed up. We totally murdered a Unibond side, a top six finish isn't out of grasp. I hope I'm not wrong, we are a good side and after treating a Unibond side like that with no mercy involved the future is bright, the future is Hallam

 

Liversedge vs Hallam FC

Another busy week on the road for The Countrymen visiting Harrogate RA, Farsley and Liversedge. Liversedge was quite frankly the most daunting having scored 81 goals at home in 23 games in all competitions.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) John Hayden  4) John Drennan  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Nicky Ball  7) Louis Axcell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Ashley Longstaff  11) Richie Lopes

Hallam started like lightning. Scott Bates ran and shot from 20 yards and saw the keeper turn his effort round the post. The resulting corner forced another save, Louis Axcell firing a bullet that was tipped over. On ten minutes Ashley Longstaff crossed for Scott Bates and he tapped in despite the attempts of the defenders to hack it away - 1-0 Hallam!! David Knaggs crossed and Richie Lopes' acrobatic effort was pushed away by Kyle Sutcliffe. A free-kick from 25 yards almost went in as it hit the foot of the post.

Liversedge were dominating and had Hallam on their toes for a good 20 minutes. Half time came with little action to talk about.

Half - Time at Clayborn Ground - Liversedge 0-1 Hallam FC 

Scott Bates almost grabbed a second as he raced through and saw hit powerful effort shake the post. No 8 of Sedge smashed an effort over as Sedge were getting closer. With 66 minutes gone Scott Bates escaped the offside trap and ran through to nutmeg the keeper and score - 2-0 Hallam FC! It was too good to be true. Liversedge immediately replied when No 14 drove in from 12 yards. On 76 Louis Axcell missed a golden chance to put the game to bed as he cut inside but he hammered the ball against the post

Harrogate Railway Athletic vs Hallam FC

By now I'd learn that Harrogate Railway were ruthless and were going to hammer us if were up for it. Maybe visiting Harrogate on a Monday night would be a waste of time. I didn't think so. This was the Harrogate Railway who I'd watched on TV give Bristol City a fight in the FA Cup 2nd Round proper 4 years ago.

Hallam's line up: 1) Peter Adnitt (the Peter Adnitt that scored for Maltby against Buxton at Silverlands!)  2) Billy Rowley  3) John Drennan  4) Phil Reynolds  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Alex Higgins  7) Louis Axcell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Anthony Wilson  11) Richie Lopes

The game started as predicted. A 35 yard free-kick would have gone in if it weren't for the fingertips of Peter Adnitt. He then palmed the rebound away. Both teams began to pressure but when Harrogate headed wide it looked obvious who would win. Scott Ryan made a run, cut inside and beat Peter Adnitt at his near-post - 1-0 Harrogate Railway! Graham Marchant set in Liam Gray just six minutes later and he tapped in - 2-0 Harrogate Railway!! Anthony Wilson had a header tipped wide on 21 and Tom Franklin hit the post, the ball came back hit the defender's head and hit the post! Scott Bates almost scored with a looping 20 yarder that the keeper managed to catch well.

On 31 Louis Axcell had the responsibility of taking a penalty at open end of Station View. He ran up and scored! To be honest I dont think Harrogate out their half until half time after that as Hallam wanted to be ruthless. For the last 14 minutes of the half all Hallam did was attack.

Half - Time at Station View - Harrogate Railway Athletic 2-1 Hallam FC

On 52 minutes (the exact minute when Alex Higgins missed a penalty against Arnold) Harrogate were given a penalty. Graham Marchant scored and it was good night Vienna - 3-1 Railway Hallam were trying but a team (now in the Unibond) is going to be after more goals. On 68 Harrogate put the game to sleep when Scott Ryan tapped in a second. - 4-1! Marchant finished a super game for Harrogate when he rounded poor Peter Adnitt - 5-1 HRA. Ashley Longstaff blazed over from 20 yards late on as a bad-tempered game finished 5-1

Full - Time at Station View - Harrogate Railway Athletic 5-1 Hallam FC

Verdict: Yes I know. Another drab game with little to talk about. Going back on the motorway I didn't mention the game very much. The better team won. The referee lost the plot. He sent Guy Glover off in stoppage time, his decisions weren't exactly top class.

My Man of the Match: Peter Adnitt. Thrown in at the deep end against a team that is capable of anything. He tried but we lost.

Hallam vs Arnold Town

Hallam's form had been excellent of late having lost once at home since February. Arnold were very inconsistent of late having won 3 of the last 6.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) Billy Rowley  3) David Knaggs  4) Phil Reynolds  5) Lee Wainwright  6) Alex Higgins  7) Louis Axcell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Paul Hurrell  11) Richie Lopes  On the bench:

Hallam kicked off, attacking the South End of Sandygate and Arnold were in all Red kicking up the slope.

The match started off quiet and both teams looked to get forward. Hallam looked vulnerable at the back with a header from 6 yards falling wide. Arnold were next to create a decent chance with a volley flying over the bar. Hallam almost scrambled a goal after Arnold failed to clear and a goal mouth scramble erupted before the visitors cleared. Fluency in attack made Hallam look dangerous with good crosses in and good passing. Richie Lopes went closest for Hallam when his shot was deflected and went out for a corner.

A strange moment brought fury on the Hallam bench as the ball was crossed in from Hallam's right and two players both went for it two yards out and the ball went wide. Hallam's hardwork was undone as Ben Middleton ran through the home side's defence before coolly slotting past the on rushing Martin Taylor - 1-0 Arnold Town

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-1 Arnold Town

The second half started and on 52 Alex Higgins found himself in charge of taking a penalty - he saw he effort saved by the keeper. Hallam weren't converting chances. Scott Bates saw a shot saved on 67. David Wilkins tore open the Hallam defence, advancing on Martin Taylor's goal but saved with his legs to deny Wilkins. Hallam knew it wasn't their day when Wayne Rooney was denied by Kolo Toure just as the ball was about to go in (Tom Franklin was stopped by the hands of an Arnold defender). Hallam gradually lost their luck and Arnold watch Hallam go close several times in the closing stages but it wasn't to be.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-1 Arnold Town

Verdict: Not a nice way to get beat. Hallam should have won and the players knew that. It was a promising performance and we can take a lot out of it.

 

 

Just a quick note, stats have been added at the end of this report so that the report is justified.

Hallam vs Liversedge

Hallam's impressive run of form has seen them rise to 14th and Sedge have been chasing promotion and have the slight habit of demolishing teams when they win

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) Phil Reynolds  4) Nicky Ball  5) Lee Wainwright  6) Alex Higgins  7) Paul Hurrell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Ashley Longstaff  11) Richie Lopes  On the bench: 12) Anthony Wilson  14) Billy Rowley  15) Louis Axcell

The game started in appauling conditions with the weather making the pitch bad and it was raining heavily again! There was no real chances for 15 minutes are both teams settled down and got used to the conditions. On 16  No 11 broke free and took forever to shoot, he eventually struck but it deflected awfully and Gareth Hamlet headed in on the line - 1-0 Liversedge Sedge looked dangerous and posed a threat every time they got forward. On 22 Tom Franklin broke free down that right and was clean through until he fluffed his shot as the keeper easily palmed it away for a corner. The half hour approached with very little to talk about. Alex Higgins should have made better of a free-kick on the edge of box - the shot struck the wall

However the Kirklees outfit were more interested in making a goal look nice and pretty and on several occasions were foiled by Hallam players or they just missed by not hitting the ball first time. No 6 of Sedge made a few people amused when he let fly and the wind caught the ball and send it to the corner flag! No 3 sent a cross in and it defied everybody to creep inside the post! Liversedge 2-0 Hallam!

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-2 Liversedge

Alex Higgins had a chance to pull a goal but his effort hammered against the underside of the crossbar, the ball came back to Ashley Longstaff who blazed over from 12 yards. Minutes after Sedge were after a third goal, Martin Taylor did well to deny them by palming a shot away towards the touchline. No 11 then fired the ball wide from 6 yards (away teams are making a habit of missing from close range infront of the covered end). Tom Franklin struck an effort on the angle in the box across goal and out for a goal-kick. Ashley Longstaff saw two efforts in the space of 60 seconds saved by the keeper as Hallam pressed. After the second effort a swift move resulted in Martin Taylor tipping the ball on the bar.

After poor defending  No 11 moved free of Hallam's defence and converted by lobbing Martin Taylor - 3-0 Liversedge, game over, no way back. By now Hallam nothing and should really just come out and played football at their pace.

Hallam	Billy Rowley (on for)	Richie Lopes
Triple	Anthony Wilson (on for)	Scott Bates
Substitution	Louis Axcell (on for)	Paul Hurrell

Hallam were frustrating but lacked confidence in all departments. In stoppage time Hallam almost grabbed a goal back, a header then a shot were cleared off the line as the bad luck virus (previously caught by Pickering Town) had set in.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-3 Liversedge 

The Stats

The Stats	Hallam	Liversedge
Goals	0	3
Shots on target	8	6
Shots off target	5	7
Hit the woodwork	1	1
Corners	3	4
Offsides	3	5
Yellow Cards	0	0
Red Cards	0	0
Fouls	4	6
Rating	5	7

Verdict: Hallam didn't look comfortable getting forward but created the chances and should have taken more out the game. Liversedge were class are Unibond League standard. Hallam's defence was questionable but the conditions didn't help

 

Hallam vs Pickering Town

Hallam were on mini-run and hadn't had a game since holding Buxton one-all a week earlier. Pickring were in danger, this game was one of ten matches in just 26 days.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) John Hayden  4) John Drennan  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Alex Higgins  7) Paul Hurrell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Ashley Longstaff  11) Richie Lopes  On the bench: 12) Nicky Ball  14) Billy Rowley  15) Louis Axcell

Hallam kicked down the slope and Pickering got us underway. After just 24 seconds, yes seconds Hallam were already in Pickering territory Scott Bates turned and hammered the ball wide from 25 yards. Hallam looked up for it and were ready for Pickering. Alex Higgins went close on four as he tore through a non-existant Pikes defence and then shot just wide from 25 yards. A mistake by Hallam let the Pikes front two in, stupidly enough though they made a mess of it, the incoming cross was easily gathered by Martin Taylor. A free-kick on halfway may not seem dangerous but the ball played found the head of David Knaggs who headed into the keeper's arms.

Tom Franklin had two chances on 7 then on 8, the first shot was weak and was easily collected and the second flew just wide from 30 yards. Hallam attacked down the left and Richie Lopes was played through on goal, first time he curled the ball over the keeper from 20 yards and in - 1-0 Hallam! Ashley Longstaff did superbly to win a corner after winning the ball and then crossed the ball but it was deflected and went out for a corner. The incoming corner swung in by Richie Lopes was poorly punched away and Ash chested the ball down and converted the chance - 2-0 Hallam!! Oh yes, Hallam had turned on the style and looked incontrol.

Scott Bates went close and should really have scored as came one on one with keeper but he lost his composure and the keeper dealt with his effort. Richie Lopes again was in the thick of it, this time his 25 yard strike went wide of the post. Pickering had their first shot of the game on 17 as No 9 hit a weak effort and Martin Taylor didn't have make much effort in saving it. Your probably getting bored of hearing the name Richie Lopes in this report, but again he saw an effort go wide of the post after more good work.

If you were a Pickering fan at the game you'd have been tearing your hair out and thinking why did we make this journey down here? The defence was in tatters and Hallam should have punished them on more than one occasion. The Pikes ventured up the slope and won a corner, it came out then a 20 yard strike was caught by Martin Taylor. Hallam went to sleep and thought the game was done with. Relaxation mode set in and it was time to invite Pickering upfield. Hallam were so so lucky to be still 2-0 up after a defensive lapse set the two strikers up again, Martin Taylor parried No 9's shot and then the ball was scrambled away to stop a rebound that would have made it 2-1.

The ball found Tom Franklin on the right wing 20 yards out and he rolled the ball into the corner - Hallam 3 Pickering 0!!! Both teams had break and stopped attacking. Hallam were wondering how the hell they were winning 3-0 against a side 7 places up in the league and Pickering were being treated for shock. Pickering began an onslaught on Hallam's goal achieving two shots. The first went wide and the second - a 20 yarder was caught by Martin Taylor. Probably the most embarrassing moment of the night was when an open goal left by Tails and the script said tap the ball into the net....he got it all wrong and stuck the ball over the bar to sum up Pickering's half. Depressing, luckless and tiring.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 3-0 Pickering Town

Ashley Longstaff stuck a shot from 20 yards but it went straight at keeper. John Drennan limped off and on came Nicky Ball. Scott Bates saw another effort go wide and the defence went to sleep allowing one player through who slotted the ball past Martin Taylor - 3-1 Hallam! Unbelieveable. It came out of nothing. Pickering should have done better when No 4's shot was sliced and it flew over the bar. On 63 No 12 of Pickering should have done better with a free header 6 yards out. Tom Franklin caused trouble with a cross that the keeper parried onto the post and out for a corner

Richie Lopes came off and on came Billy Rowley. No 14 of Pickering caused trouble when he hacked into Paul Hurrell with a two footed challenge. Nicky Ball almost wrapped it when he ran and belted the ball from 25 yards but the keeper collected. Paul Hurrell came off and on came Louis Axcell for the last 4 minutes.  In stoppage time Alex Higgins drove the ball over the bar. A deadly corner was headed towards the goal by Ashley Longstaff whose effort looked certain to be going in but it went agonisingly wide before been hacked clear. Seconds later Scott Bates had the ball snatched from his feet as looked certain to make it four - one. The Hallam players had battled hard for a fourth but it didn't come and Pickering were so so lucky to survive.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 3-1 Pickering Town

.......................................Hallam...............Stats...............Pickering Town

Goals:..............................3.................................................1

Shots on goal:..................22...............................................8

Hit the woodwork:.............0................................................0

Yellow Cards:....................0................................................0

Red Cards:........................0................................................0

Rating:.............................9.................................................4

Verdict: The stats say it all. Hallam professional, tidy performance would let me compare them to Arsenal. A team with fire and players who weren't afraid to have a go.

I really do feel for the Pikes fans, they had no luck infront of goal and it unfortunate that they had to travel such a distance to lose a game like this.

Hallam vs Buxton

This was massive game. The attendence record for this season could be broken as Buxton travelled in their hundreds but by their supporters were fed up after 10 in 11 matches being away from home. Hallam had a mini run going after three unbeaten but this would be a stern test for them.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) John Hayden  4) Nicky Ball  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Alex Higgins  7) Paul Hurrell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Anthony Wilson  11) Richie Lopes  On the bench: Ashley Longstaff  Greg Mason and Billy Rowley

Buxton almost scored after just 109 seconds. A free-kick whipped in found a head at the far-post but it drifted wide. Mark Reed got forward and drove the ball on the angle across goal but it sailed wide. 

The game slowed down and the tempo went down. Hallam charged up field and gave Buxton a job by upping the tempo and passing the ball around nicely. On 9 minutes Richie Lopes swung a corner in, the ball bobbled around and a shot looking to be going in was handled on the line. Alex Higgins was responsible infront of open end.. Noooo! His left footed strike was palmed away to the delight of several hundred Buxton fans! The resulting corner was to be taken by Richie Lopes, he swung it in and goal!! Anthony Wilson slammed the ball home - 1-0 Hallam FC!!

Buxton should have equalised twice as two corners were headed wide in quick succession.  Buxton turned dominant and hijacked the game by producing great attacking play. On 34 Scott Bates turned and smashed a 25 yard shot just over the bar. Another header went wide by Buxton but on 39 almost went two - nil up as Knaggsy and Tom Franklin broke forward winning a corner and it cleared off the line by Buxton.

Mark Reed had some thinking it was one all when he was through on Martin Taylor's goal and from 12 yards he blasted a shot looking to be going over but the ball dipped and hit the top of the bar. John Froggatt shot wide on half time as Hallam took a shock lead into the break.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-0 Buxton

The high-tempo set at the end of the first half carried on as was end to end football.Tom Franklin tapped the ball wide on 47 from 6 yards. The early moments of the second half was dull and tiring - nothing new there. Tom Franklin surged down the right wing in a frenzied counter attack, he eventually shot from 6 yards straight at the keeper. Buxton should have equalised on 70, a free-kick was headed against the bar and the rebound hit the post.   

Billy Rowley came on for Paul Hurrell as Hallam looked to hold on.  The Bucks hit the post again as time was running out. A corner was giving to Buxton in 89th minute. The ball was swung in and the ball was hammered into the corner to send the travelling support into raptures - 1-1! Hallam's resistance was defeated.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-1 Buxton

Verdict: Hallam's resistance was defeated but the way they defended against the league-leaders was amazing. Buxton will say they didn't take their chances and that they dominated. Fair enough but for 80 minutes Hallam held on and battled. I was dissappointed with the referee spoiling the evening he wasn't very fair to Hallam and a lot went Buxton's way.

Well Done to Hallam and if we'd pulled it off we might have been looking at one of the shocks of the season.

 

Shirebrook Town vs Hallam FC

Another mid-table encounter for Hallam which they'd expect to win after a poor display against Shirebrook earlier in the season. Shirebrook hoped to improve after 6 games without a win.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) John Hayden  4) Nicky Ball  5) Ashley Longstaff  6) Alex Higgins  7) Billy Rowley  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Paul Hurrell  11) Richie Lopes  On the bench: 12) Louis Axcell  14) Anthony Wilson  15) Greg Mason

Hallam kicked right to left and were kicking towards the East end of the ground with Shirebrook kicking towards the West End.

Hallam started the better and after 2 minutes great work down the right by Scott Bates almost payed off as he crossed but Billy Rowley stuck his diving header over the bar. The Countrymen were far the better team and should have been two up inside 10 minutes but Tom Franklin sliced a shot wide. Despite this the game had little to it. On 17 No 11 of Shirebrook hammered a free-kick from 40 yards but Martin Taylor caught it. David Knaggs crossed but Shire half cleared, the ball was pumped back in and eventually Tom Franklin tapped in - 1-0 Hallam!

Hallam were dominating and started to control the game but on 26 Simon Johnson's shot had to be saved by Martin Taylor. Ashley Longstaff struck a 30 yard effort just wide as the game began to lose momentum. Simon Johnson rolled a shot against the post as luck wasn't in Shire's favour.

Half - Time at The BRSA Sports Ground - Shirebrook Town 0-1 Hallam

The half started quiet like the first and Richie Lopes shot over on 56 after good work on the left. But Shirebrook grabbed the game by the scruff of its neck and began to get back in the match. Billy Rowley came off and on came the experienced Louis Axcell. Mark Wilson of Shirebrook appeared to lose his kicking ability and struggled on.  Anthony Wilson came on for Paul Hurrell as it appeared that chances were few and far between.

The last 10 minutes blossomed! Hallam were clawing their way back into the match. Richie Lopes hit a shot straight at the keeper and two minutes later the journey down to Shirebrook seemed to be a waste of time. The home side equalised and this was frustrating as Hallam had dominated for 60 minutes of the match. Martin Taylor kept Hallam in it with a superb one hand save stop a 6 yard header. A goal mouth scramble that Shirebrook cleared in the last minute summed up my feelings

Full - Time at The BRSA Sports Ground - Shirebrook Town 1-1 Hallam

Verdict: Hallam dominated for long periods of the game from the 0-60 minutes in particular. They should have really won convincingly. Despite the disappointment the two next games are vital. If we can avoid the whippings of Mark Reed and Graham Merchant we should be able to contain any striker at this level.

 

 

Staveley Miners Welfare vs Hallam FC

Both teams were all ready for a what could be a mouth-watering encounter at Inkersall Road. Despite this being a game to savour but it was bitterly cold!

Of course Hallam wanted to win and fielding David Knaggs, Billy Rowley, Greg Mason, Anthony Wilson and Ashley Longstaff showed that these players didn't just play in the First Team. Danny Cooper, Ben Furniss, Nicky Scaife (hero of the Harrogate RA game) and Glyn Cross also started. The other two I dont know.

The game started slow and drab. Hallam didn't look to interested in attacking but seemed to want to contain Staveley then strike. The home side got forward and were continuously putting Hallam under pressure but with the experience of David Knaggs they never really threatened Nicky Scaife's goal. But Hallam's know how of 50-50 balls was an advantage and nearly every loose ball was won by Hallam. Though a woeful 40 yarder wandered down towards the corner flag and a free-kick hit the wall.

With 24 minutes gone No 8 smashed a cross in and Anthony Wilson almost headed the visitors into the lead with a near post header. 4 minutes later the extreme pace of David Knaggs slit open the Staveley midfield and defence and he had run 60 yards before passing to Anthony Wilson whose shot was blocked by keeper. Ashley Longstaff did excellently down the right before crossing for Ants who hit the post with his first attempt but on the second he buried the ball - 1-0 Hallam! Just 3 minutes later Staveley were straight back in it when a rifling 20 yard strike flew past Nicky Scaife and into the top-corner.

Greg Mason and Ashley Longstaff went close as Hallam went in 1-1 at the break

Half - Time at Inkersall Road - Staveley Miners Welfare 1-1 Hallam FC

Hallam again started the second-half the better. But a shock began as a free-kick was headed in at the back-post - 2-1 Staveley! The game went incredibly quiet for 15 minutes and looked as if Staveley would go on to win by a bigger margin. Out of nothing Anthony Wilson steamed forward, beating two players and smashing a 20 yard shot wide. On 73 Ashley Longstaff found himself in space 30 yards out and absolutely hammered a thunderbolt straight down the middle of the goal!!

By the time a scuffle engaged on 83 the referee had booked 3 Hallam players and should have at least booked No 2 of Staveley after continous warnings for bad challenges. After Anthony Wilson was fouled a scuffle engaged and after been provoked by several Staveley players he lashed out and was sent-off for Violent Conduct. Although many didn't see a punch, I can confirm he did and the referee took what he thought was necessary action. This shook Hallam up and made them more determined. For the last few minutes both sides wanted to keep tight.

6 minutes was held up and within seconds of that going up Hallam hurled themselves forward. They won a free-kick just outside the box it was crossed and after a bit of confusion it was belted into the top-corner by Danny Cooper - Hallam 3-2 Staveley Miners Welfare!!! After a desperate 5 minutes of trying to keep it tight the final whistle went!!!

Were going to Glasshoughton, Were going to Glasshoughton!!! The celebrations could start!

Full - Time at Inkersall Road - Staveley Miners Welfare 2-3 Hallam FC

Verdict: Hallam deserve to win this. The players have done it the hard-way after two tough opponents. Penalties at Harrogate and now we come 2-1 down with 17 minutes left at Staveley. Every single player out there gave it their all. Including Anthony Wilson who unfortunately got sent off.

 

 

Hallam vs Mickleover Sports

Hallam came into the game on an inconsistent run of form winning 4 in 7 in the league. Mickleover were looking to repeat their success when the teams met in October.

Hallam again in the usual Blue & White and Mickleover in their usual Red & Black.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) John Hayden  4) Phil Reynolds  5) Lee Wainwright  6) Alex Higgins  7) Paul Hurrell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Ashley Longstaff  11) Richie Lopes  On the bench: 12) Billy Rowley  14) Nicky Ball  15) Louis Axcell

Paul Hurrell almost broke the deadlock on 87 seconds when he fired a shot from 20 yards but Penty in the Mickleover goal pushed it away for a corner. Mickleover should have done better with a free-kick on the edge of the box after Hansen was fouled - the free-kick hit the wall. Both teams looked eager to score and it was end to end attacking. Richie Lopes crossfield pass picked out Paul Hurrell and he drove an effort just over the bar from 20 yards. The visitors entered a spell where they couldn't pass the ball at all and Hallam drove forward.

Shannon North obviously thought the goalposts were in the Plough Inn car-park as he smashed a 12 yard effort out the ground. On 17 a Sports free-kick caused trouble when it was headed towards goal but luckily it dropped just wide. On 23 the ball was just 6 yards out but both Longstaff and Bates missed the ball as The Countrymen were searching for a goal. Richie Lopes found space around 35 yards out and unleashed a belting strike which just creeped over the bar. No 8 of Mickleover then missed a golden chance to score as he put his 8 yard shot wide. Alex Higgins and Tom Franklin were the most influential figures on the pitch as they controlled the middle of the pitch.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-0 Mickleover Sports

Mickleover set us underway in the second-half kicking down the slope. Tom Franklin should have scored with a free header but it was caught. The game continued with a very high tempo. Ashley Longstaff missed a good chance on the on 53, his shot on the angle rolled wide of the target. Paul Hurrell went close after he cut inside from the right and hammered a shot towards Penty's right but the ball flew past the post. Neither team was going to give up and both teams continued to stay strong.

Karl Yeoman awfuly missed for Mickleover with 10 minutes remaining and it looked as if the game would stay scoreless for the first time this season for Hallam. Longstaff was agonisingly close to winning the game but his 20 yard strike dropped wide. On 92 Hurrell's cross/shot from 30 yards had Tony Penty panicking but it hit the bar!

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-0 Mickleover Sports

Verdict: Both games between the two sides have been classics in their own right. Hallam and Mickleover played well but chances were missed. An improvement on Tuesday? Yes, definately.

Good Luck to Mickleover with the rest of the season

Hallam vs Parkgate

It was Premier vs Division One in the derby match between two teams just 10 miles apart.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) John Hayden  4) Phil Reynolds  5) Lee Wainwright  6) Alex Higgins  7) Billy Rowley  8) Tom Franklin  9) Anthony Wilson  10) Ashley Longstaff  11) Scott Mellon  

Hallam in their blue & white home strip and Parkgate in all red but with shirt having a white strip down the centre.

Hallam kicked off and played down the slope in first half as both teams looked keen to get off to a quick start. As this was a derby a physical encounter was assured. Parkgate looked to be in the mood for playing and were quick to close down Hallam players. They believed that scuffing the pitch up would be a disadvantage to the opposition. Lee Wainwright came closest on 6 when his vicious free-kick flew just over the bar. Hallam looked incontrol but on 9, Cusworth headed in a corner at the near-post - 1-0 Parkgate. Action was few and far between for the majority of the game and on 19 Matt Outtram rounded Martin Taylor and slotted the ball in on 19 - 2-0 Parkgate.

The game was painful to watch and for the next hour it wasn't worth watching. On 38 Cusworth headed home at the far-post to make it 3-0 Parkgate! to make you ask yourself the question - 'Can I take another 52 minutes of this?'

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-3 Parkgate

Hallam came out and attacked but coming from three-goals down isn't easy. On 55 Gould wrapped up the game when calmly lobbed Martin Taylor from 30 yards - 4-0 Parkgate! The self destruct button had been pressed,  in the stand Hallam fans were thinking 'How many more ?' A triple substitution was made by Hallam as they looked to get at least 2 goals back. Cusworth completed his hat-trick - tapping in a corner from 2 yards out - 5-0 Parkgate!

Credit to Parkgate they were playing brilliantly and a Unibond side would struggle to compete with the football they were playing. On 77 Ryan Johnson turned an embarrassment into a humilation when he slotted in a one on one with Martin Taylor - 6-0 Parkgate!! Hallam weren't playing badly but the scoreline suggested they were. On 83 the Parkgate shut up when they saw a contender for Goal of the Season - Ashley Longstaff catching the keeper out with a 40 yard screamer that flew into the roof of the net - 6-1 Parkgate. Longstaff converted from 12 yards on 87 to reduce the Parkgate's lead again.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 2-6 Parkgate

Verdict: The report says it all. Hallam did play too bad but Parkgate converted their chances

 

Arnold Town vs Hallam FC

The form book suggested a tight game. Hallam had won their last three on the road and were generally on a good run winning 6 in 9. Arnold's habit of ending the game for the opposition before half-time was something you had to bear in mind.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) John Hayden  4) Phil Reynolds  5) Lee Wainwright  6) Nicky Ball  7) Paul Hurrell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Anthony Wilson  11) Scott Mellon  On the Bench: 12) Ashley Longstaff  14) Matt Eaton

Hallam kicked towards the open end in their changed stripe of Red and Black and Arnold attacking  the covered end in their Yellow and Blue home kit.

Arnold kicked off but Hallam gained possession very easily and looked to attack down the flanks. They attacked well through Wilson and he should have had a penalty in the second minute. He was hauled down in box and they referee looked on, waving it away. The commitment by the visitors matched what they did to Garforth Town. Challenging for: every header; every loose ball; every second ball; Tom Franklin created a good chance for himself as he ran into the box and shot from 15 yards but the keeper caught at high height. It was obvious who the sharper team was and the away side carried on tormenting the Eagles defence.

Phil Reynolds tried to stop Kevin Mabon surging into the box but Mabon appeared to foul him however the referee didn't notice and Mabon shot just wide of the target. Lee Wainwright tried to connect with loose ball in the box but the strike was weak and McCarthy in goal picked it up. Arnold came down on Hallam like a tonne of bricks in the 15th minute, with antrage of shots, everytime a shot was blocked the Arnold players just kept blasting it back towards the goal.

Tom Franklin nearly put Hallam in the lead as he cut through the Arnold defence and hammered a powerful shot destined for the corner but the keeper parried it wide of the post. Town looked dangerous on the counter but good defending by the visitors eliminated the threat. Nicky Ball took a quick free kick but he fired it over the bar on 27.

Frustration was spreading amongst the Arnold players and they started to lunge in on their opponetnts The referee just looked on taking no notice. Towards the end of half the referee booked several Hallam players for bad tackles including Anthony Wilson and Scott Mellon.

Half - Time at The King George V Recreation Ground - Arnold Town 0-0 Hallam

Scott Mellon almost found the net on 47, his left foot free-kick smashed against the roof of the stand. Arnold were in demolition mode and too be honest Hallam couldn't keep up. On 52 the visitors tried to play their way out of defence, it proved fatal... Knaggsy slipped and David Wilkins tapped in - 1-0 Arnold Town

The Eagles played like Buxton, quick passing and looked a good team. The referee made a mess of every decision until the last 10 minutes. Hallam still battled but tried desperately to get the better of the Town defence. It didn't look like happening.

Hallam Sub: 3) John Hayden off ----------  12) Ashley Longstaff on

Arnold got round the back of a struggling defence and a cross was whipped in, headed home by Dale Wright - 2-0 Arnold Town. Scott Bates and Ashley Longstaff missed chances as Hallam's luck was about to run out. Until the 87th minute, a free-kick dead central, 30 yards out. Nicky Ball was to take it to try and salvage a consolation..... he runs up..... he strikes it..... goal! What a fantastic free-kick he curls it into the top-corner - leaving McCarthy no chance! Arnold 2-1 Hallam!!

Hallam pushed and excelled themselves until the 92nd minute. It was over defeat away from home for the first time since the 2nd January

Verdict:  A fantastic performance. For over an hour we dominated and did ourselves proud. Set plays need to be improved as we created very little from them. If Nicky Ball takes free-kick's every game we'll score loads more goals.

My Man of the Match: Its got to be Nicky Ball, purely down to the fact that his free-kick was stunning and he did his fair-share of work in middle of the park.

Final Comment: Id like to thank Arnold for their hospitality. I enjoyed watching football at such a friendly club. I wish them good luck with Eagle Valley, which I hope to visit when its built

Hallam vs Long Eaton United

Hallam's form of 5 wins in 8 was impressive and Long Eaton's away form was not brilliant considering Brodsworth, Sheffield and Selby Town had already annihilated them. Hallam record at Sandygate wasn't brilliant but would the home form give and Hallam win or would the Long Eaton attack run riot. 

Hallam line up:  1) Craig Parry  2) David Knaggs  3) Scott Mellon  4) Phil Reynolds  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Nicky Ball  7) Louis Axcell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Anthony Wilson  11) Richard Lopes  On the bench:  12) Paul Hurrell  14) Ashley Longstaff  15) Matt Eaton

Long Eaton got us underway in an all green stripe kicking up the slope in the first half.

As expected the early stages of the contest were cagey and both teams looked to keep tight. The Blues of Nottingham didn't look too good and it looked as if it would be a stroll for Hallam. On 5 Sutton went close but his shot from 20 yards narrowly missed the target. Richie Lopes cut inside 40 yards out and hammered a 30 yard strike straight at the keeper. Scott Bates managed to trick his way past several Blues defenders before smashing in a great cross which the keeper punched away.

The Countrymen were passing well but the game was yet to completely settle down. Anthony Wilson of Hallam was on the touchline but still managed to hammer in a volley and it went straight across the face of goal. Lopes again tried his luck from long-range but the keeper got behind the ball to stop it. The Derbyshire team were keen to start attacking and an impressive 20 yard rocket was inches from going in. Long Eaton did score a minute later on 28, poor defending let in Sutton who slotted past Craig Parry - 1-0 Long Eaton United

What looked like a simple win was turning into a defensive nightmare. Players were not getting the ball away quick enough, letting opponents through and not winning headers. What looked like a normal 30 yard effort almost produced a second goal for Long Eaton as the ball just rolled past the post. On 37 Scott Bates picked up on a through ball from Louis Axcell and turned before clipping the ball over the keeper...... Hallam 1-1 Long Eaton United. It was huge relieve to see Hallam equalise 8 minutes before the break.

There was still time for more action as Long Eaton had a goal disallowed for offside and Richard Lopes came off injured and was replaced by Matt Eaton.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-1 Long Eaton United

.......................................................Sutton 28,

......................................Scott Bates 37

The start of the second-half was a replica of the first. Very scrappy and frustrating. On the hour the first chance of the second half arrived, Scott Mellon crossed for Tom Franklin who headed into the keeper's arms. The Blues were incontrol in midfield but Phil Reynolds work rate was rocketing as he did his best to keep out the away side.

Hallam Substitution: 10) Anthony Wilson off ---------- 14) Ashley Longstaff on

A free-kick delivered from right caused a few problems for the home side and Craig Parry excellently denied The Blues the lead when he got a hand to a header destined for the bottom corner. The resulting corner lead to a goal mouth scramble and Hallam looked at sixes and sevens, the visitors had 3-4 shots blocked and hit the bar before the ball was cleared.

On 69 Ashley Longstaff had goal ruled out for offside and this fired the Sandygate Road side up. 73 minutes gone and it was heart in mouth for Hallam, No 6 crossed and No 8 powered a shot towards the roof of the net but Craig Parry miraculously tipped over to give The Blues another corner. Two minutes of stoppages were guaranteed when Parry, a Hallam defender and Long Eaton striker all went for the same ball. Parry won it but the other two collided nastily.

Hallam Substitution: 6) Nicky Ball ---------- 12) Paul Hurrell on

A high tempo finale is what we endured. With Long Eaton desperate to survive the drop and Hallam wanted to continue good-form to head for a mid-table finish. At times you were pulling your hair out and at others you were delighted with the effort. On 89 Tom Franklin broke free down the right and crossed......Ashley Longstaff 6 yards out......the keeper is nowhere......he taps in!! Hallam 2-1 Long Eaton United!! Hallam have surely won now!!

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 2-1 Long Eaton United

.......................................................Sutton 28,

......................................Scott Bates 37,

......................................Ashley Longstaff 89

Verdict: Hallam's performance was by no means the best. The last 5 minutes was the best spell of football all game. At times it was like watching Sunderland, the hopeless team and at others it was like watching Chelsea. Sometimes you have to grind results out and Hallam did that.

My Man of the Match: Phil Reynolds. He battled for every header and a good percentage of those he won. He made mistakes like everyone does but still tried hard. Richie Lopes and Scott Bates both played well and Batesy looks like a prolific striker

Final Comment: I'm definately looking forward to Tuesday night. Arnold will be a good test to our away record. If the pitch is better than Selby's then we have a chance.

 

Glasshoughton Welfare vs Hallam FC

Both teams were looking to win a vital NCE Premier fixture with 17th vs 18th at Glasshoughton Centre. Hallam had lost their last 2, both at home but Glasshoughton had lost their 2 away from home.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) John Hayden  4) Phil Reynolds  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6)................. 7) Richard Lopes  8) Tom Franklin  9) Scott Bates  10) Anthony Wilson  11)................ On the bench: 12) Nicky Ball  14) Paul Hurrell  15) Ashley Longstaff

Glasshoughton were in all blue and kicked off and down the bumpy pitch towards the covered end. Hallam were in their changed stripe of red and black and kicked up the bumpy pitch towards the open end.

Hallam got forward but couldn't do anything with possession. The pitch was handful due to the slope and bumps. Richard Lopes was played in by Anthony Wilson but the ball went out for a corner which Nathan Hazeldene put wide. Ants shot wide on 15 but Hallam were losing battles in the midfield and giving the ball away cheaply. Glasshoughton got back in it and started to move forward, they got their best chance on 29 but the shot went well wide.  A free-kick though 35 yards out on found Anthony Wilson who beat two players and was been fouled but The Blues got the ball away.

In the last 3 minutes of the half the visitors started to play well and won a few corners. Scott Bates shot from 20 yards and the keeper could only parry into the path of Richard Lopes who hammered the ball into the top-corner - Glasshoughton 0-1 Hallam!! 

Half - Time at The Glasshoughton Centre - Glasshoughton Welfare 0-1 Hallam

The second half started a lot more exciting and Glasshoughton showed their true ability. A great 5 yard run was followed up by a 30 yard screamer that flew a mile over the bar. A foul in the box gave The Blues a penalty on 49, it was badly taken as Martin Taylor got the down to the most powerless penalty (by No 7) you'll ever see to parry the ball out. No 7 of Hallam almost doubled the lead but his 20 yard strike flew wide. Glasshoughton were team to watch and got forward well, giving the ball away at every possible opportunity.

David Knaggs crossed from the right and Scott Bates thumped in a header at the far-post - 2-0 Hallam!! The Blues attack was awful but Hallam didn't have the guts to push for a third. With the substitutes warming up forever and waiting to come on, a lot of players got tired. Phil Reynolds got forward and he almost lobbed the keeper from 30 yards but it dropped just wide.

On 74 No 6 went off and on came Nicky Ball and on 82 Anthony Wilson went off and Paul Hurrell came on.

Richard Lopes almost grabbed his second, a free-kick whipped over the wall, and clipped the wall and went out the ground. Scott Bates went off and Ashley Longstaff came on. Welfare were still incontrol and were getting worse by the minute. The referee was very reasonable. Then 30 yard Blues shot had no power in it and Martin Taylor picked it up

Full - Time at The Glasshoughton Centre - Glasshoughton Welfare 0-2 Hallam

...................................................................................................Richard Lopes, 44

...................................................................................................Scott Bates, 58

Verdict: Hallam's opponents helped them secure victory. Dire defence and lacklustre attacking combinated to make Glasshoughton look like a Sunday League team instead of NCEL. The only team in the contest, Hallam. The only team that played well, Hallam. The only team that seemed bothered, Hallam.

 

Hallam vs Harrogate Railway

With the winners to become favourites for the competition this was a chance for the taking. Greg Mason, Billy Rowley, David Knaggs, Anthony Wilson and Ashley Longstaff all started as Hallam were field a strong side against a team that had scored 16 goals away from home in 4 matches

Hallam were in blue and white and Harrogate in Red and Green. The visitors kicked off and kicked down the slope in the first half.

It was absolutely freezing so both teams were anxious to get straight out the blocks and into the game. A high tempo was set by Rail and they went close on 2 when No 6 crossed but 11 scuffed his shot into the side-netting from 6 yards. Both teams wanted to attack but Hallam couldn't get past a determined Rail midfield. But it breached when Ashley Longstaff broke free but his 15 yard shot was powerless. The tempo dropped and little action followed. Ben Furniss smashed a 35 yard strike just wide on 17. Railway were kicking themselves as a cross wasn't coverted, two shots from 6 yards were missed as they looked certain to score.

It was a frustrating last 20 minutes and Hallam just edged it. Possession was mostly in the middle of the pitch long-ball's were sent to feed the strikers.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-0 Harrogate Railway

Hallam came out the stronger but for a solid 20 minutes there were no chances and was much like the last 20 minutes of the first-half. Harrogate's No 10 escaped and ran through the Hallam defence leaving everyone for dead but from 20 yards his finish was poor and put the ball wide. Soon after Railway were back up Hallam's end and should have scored when the ball bounced round the box however a shot from 6 yards managed to go out for a throw in. Ashley Longstaff and Greg Mason linked up well down the left and won a corner that was cleared away. Mason had his head in hands when he missed from 2 yards on 77. Late on a vicious 18 yard shot was flying towards the top-corner - the keeper somehow managed to dive up and catch it. The home side continued to control the match until full-time.

Billy Rowley was badly injured by his opponent's studs in the 90 minute. The referee refused to add any stoppages and with Rowley in agony tempers were set-alight. However the referee had made a lot of bad decisions and this wasn't the first he was accused of been bias.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-0 Harrogate Railway (Now going into extra-time)

Rail came out stronger and were looking for goal that would probably take them through. But it was Hallam who nearly broke the deadlock on 97, a great cross headed was just over the bar from 12 yards.

Half - Time in Extra Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-0 Harrogate Railway

Greg Mason cut inside and saw his 6 yard effort pushed away. On 118 a outrageous 30 yard strike by Longstaff was caught and on 120 his 25 yard belter curled and hit the bar! It was last kick of the game before penalties

Full - Time in Extra Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-0 Harrogate Railway (Now into penalties)

I went off behind the North goal (covered end) and saw the pens.

Hallam - Harrogate Railway (The shootout!)

1) 11, pushed away with the right hand! 0-0

1)  Ashley Longstaff, calmly into the corner - 1-0 Hallam!

2) 15, parried away with the right hand -  1-0 Hallam!

2) Greg Mason, straight at the keeper and away - 1-0 Hallam!

3) No 9, straight in - 1-1

3) Danny Cooper, in off the post! - 2-1 Hallam!

4) 5, strikes it.... saved, palmed towards the corner flag! - 2-1 Hallam!

4) Runs up, and passes it into the bottom-right corner - 3-1 Hallam!!

Victory! Hallam have won the shoot-out 3-1!

Nicky Scaife the hero!

Verdict: It was a very physical game with few chances. Luck was nil all-game and the players, the committee, the fans deserved the victory. To get some silverware would be excellent and we hope for another home-draw in the semis!

Hallam vs Sheffield

Before most of our fans arrived Club took up our main stand and brought a good 100 fans with them to Sandygate. We weren't going to be detered and our fans came out in their hundreds. Previous results suggested Club were the team on form and we (Hallam FC!) were the only team to have beaten them in 16 matches.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) Phil Reynolds  3) John Hayden  4) Lee Wainwright  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Nicky Ball  7) David Knaggs  8) Tom Franklin  9) Paul Hurrell  10) Scott Bates  11) Billy Rowley. On the bench: 14) Anthony Wilson  15) Ashley Longstaff

We kicked off and the opposition played down the slope. Both teams wanted to make as few mistakes as possible and by 5 minute you could tell who was the more physical of the two sides - Sheffield.  It was scrappy and there was little to talk of but Hallam were slightly edging it. Former Sheffield man Billy Rowley stormed up the left beating 2-3 men all ends up, he whipped in a cross like Ronaldinho and Scott Bates smashes home a header from 6 yards - 1-0 Hallam!! Hallam FC are leading after just 7 minutes!! Oh yes!!

Tempers started to flare and Tom Franklin had to be treated for a kick in the stomach. Same team, same keeper, different striker. Martin Taylor was again victim of vicious tactics by Sheffield, he was accused of dragging down James Tevendale. A clear dive by the Sheffield man and Taylor was booked. Tevendale broke free on 18 of the defence and left Tails stranded before slotting home.

The referee started to help his team out by letting them randomly kick their opponents and attack them. And made a mistake when David Knaggs was taken out in the box and gave a blind-eye to it. It looked to be staying 1-1 at half-time until Pete Smith bundled in corner on 41 - 2-1 Sheffield.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-2 Sheffield

Hallam were undeservedly down at the break and look to attack their local rivals and the threat was there. David Knaggs saw the chance and absolutely belted the ball from 45 yards but it was caught. Club were on-top but neither team had any good chances. On 67 a 25 yard effort was brilliantly palmed past the round post - corner kick Hallam. Two minutes later they were panicking and desperately trying to hack the ball away as the Dronfield side wanted to impound further blows in Hallam armour.

Paul Hurrell came off and Anthony Wilson came on as Ants would provide a boost to the attack. Nicky Ball crossed for Tom Franklin and everyone was off their feet but the ball trickled just wide. Lee Wainwright lost concentration and a neat one-two on the edge of the box resulted in Pete Davey firing home from 20 yards - 3-1 Sheffield. Can it get any worse? Yes, Wainwright failed to clear and James Tevendale walked the ball in - 4-1 Sheffield! 

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-4 Sheffield

.....................................Scott Bates 7,

......................................................James Tevendale 18,

.......................................................Pete Smith, 41 

.......................................................Pete Davey, 84

......................................................James Tevendale, 86

Verdict: Hallam tried hard but it was physical and we didn't contend with that. Look at the Garforth and Glapwell games, we battled well and won both games deservedly. Glasshoughton is an absolute must-win this weekend and so is Long Eaton the week after.

Hallam vs Thackley

Hallam's previous form was impressive and look to continue a run of 3 without defeat. Thackley were 5 unbeaten in the league.

Hallam kicked off in their blue and white home stripe and Thackley were playing with Hallam's away kit on.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor 2) David Knaggs 3) Phil Reynolds 4) Matt Eaton 5) Lee Wainwright 6) Nicky Ball 7) Billy Rowley 8) Tom Franklin 9) Anthony Wilson 10) Paul Hurrell 11) Greg Mason On the bench: 12) Ben Furniss 14) Ashley Longstaff 15) Louis Axcell

Hallam started the better and looked in mood for playing but Thackley lounged around thinking they were on holiday. Matt Eaton drilled the first effort of the game on 4 at the keeper from 25 yards. Anthony Wilson did the same himself seconds later but again it was caught. The home team were the better and passed the ball around nicely. The Thackley defence looked shabby, giving away corners and just generally messing everything up. The ball went up in the air and a game of head tennis between the two sides started.

On 16 Ants hit a fierce drive from 30 yards and it was flying towards the top-corner but Everard in the Reds goal miraculously pulled out his left hand to palm the ball away. Tom Franklin should have done better when he sent clear but screwed his 25 yard strike wide. Out of nothing the Bradford outfit ventured forward and Martin Taylor pulled off a top-draw save from a header to deny Thackley the lead. Nicky Ball then did excellently to get round 2 defenders, he played in Paul Hurrell who struck just wide.

Joel Etienne almost lead his side into the lead with an acrobatic effort from 12 yards but it lacked power and Taylor collected. The referee made a huge mistake when Tom Franklin was hauled down in the area and both linesman & referee failed to spot an infringement, giving Hallam a corner. Strange. The tempo fell and the game gently rolled into half-time with little to talk about.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-0 Thackley

Thackley kicked off in the second-half....still in Hallam's kit. The first 10 minutes of the half gave us an insight into what the half would be like, boring and frustrating. No 6 hit a shot straight at the post as Guy Glover looked on umimpressed. Hallam looked scared of getting into the 6 yard box and seemed to play outside it.The game was end to end but both teams failed to create chances.

Hallam Substitution: 6) Nicky Ball off ---------- 12) Ben Furniss on

Dangerman Adam Johnson broke free and it took a fantastic David Knaggs challenge to stop him baring down on Martin Taylor. A very quiet spell followed and some people in the ground were losing the will to live. Billy Rowley fired a shot wide on 64.

Hallam Substitution: 11) Greg Mason off ---------- 15) Louis Axcell on

Anthony Wilson should have scored from 6 yards but his shot was saved.

Hallam Substitution: 10) Paul Hurrell ---------- 12) Ashley Longstaff

Billy Rowley was desperately close but his 20 yard belter was punched away for a corner. A lethal dose of The reds strikeforce was injected as Joel Etiennetook advantage of a mistake in Hallam's defence by slotting home from 6 yards - Hallam 0-1 Thackley. Martin Taylor came up for a last-gasp corner but that was cleared.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-1 Thackley

.....................................................Joel Etienne 88

Verdict: One mistake cost Hallam the game. The performance in the second-half was below-par and certain players played below standards. We kept out the dangerman all game but Etienne played a big part in Thackley's victory and credit to them. We have to play better against Sheffield in next week and I think its important we rest key players for Under 19's game on Wednesday.

Final Comment: Well Done to the fans for their support today. It was a cold day and people turned out in their numbers

 

Sorry about the lateness of the report. This was due to technical problems with freewebs

Northern Alliance --- Hallam vs Sheffield

David Knaggs, Anthony Wilson, Greg Mason and Ashley Longstaff all started for Hallam as they tried to repeat what they did to Sheffield earlier in the season.

The game started in cold conditions. Hallam kicked off and were kicking down the slope in the first half. The match started frustrating and neither team looked like scoring in the opening 10 minutes. After good box work Danny Cooper fired a low shot just wide. Sheffield were never in the game but gained upper the hand in the midfield. The chance Sheffield had was when 7 shot the ball past the post. It was scrappy and all the play was in the midfield. Anthony Wilson hammered the ball over from 8 yards on 15.

Out of nothing a long ball decieved the Sheffield defence and Greg Mason latched onto it to slide the ball home, 1-0 Hallam. Exactly 60 seconds later Anthony Wilson broke free of the defence to smash the ball into the net, 2-0 Hallam. Club struggled to keep up with a high tempo set by Hallam. The Countrymen carried on and got forward with Ben Furniss winning a corner. Super play on right wing was finished off when Anthony Wilson rose highest to head high into the goal - 3-0 Hallam. This was inside 32 minutes! On 37 the Dronfield outfit had a chance with a free-kick but it was pushed wide for corner. Greg Mason more or less won the game on 41 as he lobbed the ball over the keeper into the far corner - 4-0 Hallam.

Half-Time at Sandygate - Hallam 4-0 Sheffield

Half-Time Verdict: Hallam looked to have won and I heard people suggesting 6 or 7 for Hallam. Normally teams going in 4-5 nil up slow down in the second half.

It didn't go according to plan in opening 3 minutes, mistakes at the back led to the visitors pulling one back. But within minutes it was forgotten... Anthony Wilson tapped in his hat-trick from 6 yards - 5-1 Hallam. The question on everyone's minds was how many goals will we score tonight? Unfortunately the midfield went for a walk and didn't turn up for 5 minutes and when they came back it was six, Greg Mason drilled in from 20 yards - Game Over - Hallam 6-1 Sheffield. Ants almost made it 7 but he fired over from 6 yards.

Two players had got hat-tricks and the home side were like a run-away train and nobody could do a thing about it. Chances were few and far between which was unusual seening 7 goals had been scored. Anthony Wilson was about to come off but he looked world class as he curled the ball over the keeper into top-right hand corner - 7-1 Hallam! Ants looked delighted as he left the field. Two minutes later David Knaggs' extreme pace took him through Club's defence like Billy Whizz and smacked a thunderbolt straight at the keeper but Danny Cooper nodded home - 8-1 Hallam! The worrying fact for Sheffield that there was 18 minutes left with possibly Hallam reaching double-figures.

Ben Furniss turned the game from a hammering or belting to a rout. Not an ordinary rout a stunning rout. Furniss headed in from 6 yards on 79 - Hallam 9-1 Sheffield!! Ashley Longstaff headed a goal of his own on 81 at the near-post - Hallam 10-1 Sheffield!!! The ref was either very cold or was bribed by the Sheffield coach to end the game 5 minutes early.

Full Time at Sandygate - Hallam 10-1 Sheffield

Greg Mason 22,41,56

Anthony Wilson 23,32,51,71

Danny Cooper 72

Ben Furniss 79

Ashley Longstaff 81

Verdict: Hallam played a side that had obviously never met each other in their lives. 10 days before the big first-team derby your under 19's get hammered 10-1 by the opposition. Hallam did have spells where they were poor in the midfield but they kept it together. In between goals they kept it tight and didn't let Club have a sniff on goal, on the other hand they didn't look interested at all.

My Man of the Match: David Knaggs, he controlled the defence and looked a threat as his pace proved a problem. He could have added a goal of his own but unfortunately didn't - though it would have capped off a great evening for him

Hallam vs Eccleshill United

Hallam came into the game on fire with 3 wins in 4 and a convincing victory away at Glapwell the prvious weekend. Eccleshill looked to improve their mediocre away form.

Eccleshill were to kick off playing down the slope in the first half

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) Phil Reynolds  3) Scott Mellon  4) Lee Wainwright  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Nicky Ball  7) David Knaggs  8) Tom Franklin  9) Anthony Wilson  10) Paul Hurrell  11) Greg Mason  On the bench: 12) Ashley Longstaff  14) Matt Eaton  15) Matt Plant

The game started slow as both teams failed to settle down. Scott Mellon's free-kick on 2 caused problems in The Eagles defence but it was slotted wide. No 7 struck a free-kick from 30-35 yards out and Martin Taylor watched the ball go harmlessly past the post. Though he was forced to collect a weak strike from No 9. Paul Hurrell went close when he headed a Phil Reynolds cross just wide. Eccleshill could only pass the ball in midfield and didn't get further that the Hallam 18 yard box.

No real action followed for 10-15 minutes as Hallam continued to dominate but failed to get a killer pass into the box. Chris Woods crept through but his deflected went wide. On the half hour David Knaggs showed his pace and intelligence when he took on a number of Eccleshill players before hammering the ball at the keeper from 18 yards. Soon after Anthony Wilson held the ball up and released Knaggsy who shot up the line, layed the ball back to Tom Franklin whose 20 yard effort flew just over.

Franklin then went down with a head injury and that gave us a minute's stoppage. Nicky Ball was booked after he won tackle in midfield and fell over his man after losing his balance when getting up. Seconds before the interval David Knaggs was booked.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-0 Eccleshiil United

Hallam set us underway in the second period, it started the same way as the first. Martin Taylor hit a high clearance and almost took my head off. Knaggsy had two good chances but first he shot wide and the keeper saved his second. Hallam for the first time in ages begun a second half on top. Scott Mellon's corner was punched over, Nicky Ball delivered a second and  Anthony Wilson headed home from 6 yards to send 100 + home fans crazy - 1-0 Hallam! Another Nicky Ball corner had Eccleshill panicking but Ants headed across the face of the goal.

David Knaggs almost capped off excellent play in midfield by Hallam but again his shot was parried away. The only way to describe the standard of play by Hallam was outstanding - nobody could put a foot wrong and they managed to ease away from The Eagles defence and create chances.

Hallam Substitution after 67 minutes:  12) Ashley Longstaff on ---------- 10) Paul Hurrell off

Ants continued to swipe at the opposition's defence with a 20 yarder but the keeper got behind it well. On 75 a goal mouth scramble nearly brought a second goal but Eccleshill withheld after Hallam rattled the bar. Ashley Longstaff did incredibly well to cross for Anthony Wilson who shot just wide of the post.  Minutes later Martin Taylor was called in action for the first time in an hour and he surged across his goal to stop a certain chance for an equaliser.

Hallam Substitution after 84 minutes:  14) Matt Eaton on  ---------- 7) David Knaggs off

It was heart in mouth for the last 5-10 minutes as Hallam desperately looked to hold on. In the 93rd minute the referee gave the away side a free-kick on the edge of the box and it was hard to watch but Martin Taylor dived across to parry the ball away. Despite keeping the ball for a long time at the end Eccleshill were out of ideas.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-0 Eccleshiil United

......................................Anthony Wilson, 55

Verdict: What can I say? Apart from the fact everyone should be delighted with the result. Play throughout the game was clean and tidy, the build up was magnificent and Anthony Wilson walked through the Eccleshill United defence for 90 minutes. I was very impressed with everyone's performance and it makes us look like a strong team.

My Man of the Match: I could give it to Anthony Wilson but I won't. The whole side deserves this. Including Matt Eaton and Ashley Longstaff the two subs.

Glapwell FC vs Hallam FC

Hallam were looking to build on a much deserved victory at Garforth a week before and Glapwell looked to  carry on with a 7 match unbeaten streak.

Hallam kicked off in their normal blue and white home strip while Glapwell kicked up the slope in their black and white home kit.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) Phil Reynolds  3) Scott Mellon  4) Matt Plant  5) Lee Wainwright  6) Nicky Ball  7) David Knaggs  8) Tom Franklin  9) Paul Hurrell  10) Anthony Wilson  11) Billy Rowley  On the bench: 12) Ian Askey  14) Matt Eaton  15) Ashley Longstaff

The game started unusually quiet and failed to get going for a while as both teams approached the match cautiously. Billy Rowley won the ball on the left and raced through the opponents defence, he played in Hurrell who forced the keeper into making a save with a goal bound left footer. Glapwell's midfield didn't seem to be with it as the away team picked up the ball easily, particularly in the middle and right wing areas. Hallam couldn't keep the ball as Glapwell kept clearing the loose balls out of their last third.

When The Well did get forward the away side won the ball back and played it about nice 'n' easy. However Martin Taylor was forced into a save after some good build up by Glapwell. You could have walked to Mansfield and back and found Glapwell hadn't created any chances while you were gone. One thing that lightened up the game was that any petty, minor infringements by a Hallam player resulted in a booking. On 31 The Countrymen missed a great chance to take the lead when Hurrell was one on one with the keeper but the keeper smothered the ball at his feet. Tom Franklin almost scored as he struck a bobbling ball in the box but it was parried away for a corner.

With seconds left of the half God gave Paul Hurrell some luck as he wonderfully took down the ball and passed to Billy Rowley whose cross was headed in by top scorer Anthony Wilson! Hallam 1-0 Glapwell!

Half - Time at Hall Corner - Glapwell 0-1 Hallam

.........................................................Anthony Wilson, 45

The word to describe Hallam's start to the second half was panic. After a few mistakes at the back Glapwell could so easily have scored. Martin Taylor in Hallam's goal stopped an almost certain own goal as their defence was ripped apart by a fired up Glapwell. Anthony Wilson could have made it 2-0 to Hallam if it wasn't for the quick thinking home keeper who pushed his 25 yard shot away for a corner. Lee Wainwright should have scored from the resulting corner but hit the ball wide on the angle.

Lee Wainwright made up for his earlier miss on 58 as he slotted home Nicky Ball's free-kick - Hallam 2-0 Glapwell! Hallam were in paradise at Hall Corner as 3 points looked to be on the cards. This was followed by 2 substitutes from the home side as they looked for way back into the game.  Tom Franklin and Paul Hurrell went close but it was tough as Glapwell were more interested in getting free kicks and diverting the referee's attention. I think the referee was using his whistle as a toy and seemed give yellow cards for anything minor but wouldn't give a booking for a two footed challenge which left everyone a bit lost.

Anthony Wilson battled through the Glapwell defence and midfield and took on 4-5 players but in the end David Knaggs shot just over. The away side were hanging on by their skin of their teeth and kept out Well until the referee gave a harsh free-kick on the edge of the box on 81 and it was hammered home left footed - 2-1 Hallam.

Unfortunately the game was ruined when the referee failed to even talk to a Glapwell player when he gave Billy Rowley a kick in the head. He was attempting to head the ball back and suddenly an opponent came in, cleared the ball and almost took poor Rowley's head off. Yes, both players went for the ball but Billy Rowley was having to go to hospital having had a couple of studs in his forehead.

What made me laugh was the continous adding up of stoppage time by the referee. It must have 6 minutes stoppage's for which 3-4 were for his lectures.

Full - Time at Hall Corner - Glapwell 1-2 Hallam FC

.................................................................Anthony Wilson 45,

.................................................................Lee Wainwright 58.

 

Verdict: Hallam outclassed Glapwell in the midfield throughout the game and the passing was superb. To say Glapwell are 6th is remarkable. They were below par and like Garforth who we played last week - the defence was shocking.

My Man of the Match: A team performance today by Hallam. Anthony Wilson and Billy Rowley were outstanding. Ants battled like mad at times and scored a beautiful goal. Billy Rowley worked down Glapwell's right wing brilliantly and I was sad to see him hurt, I just hope he is back to face Eccleshill Utd next weekend.

Final Comment: Few points today

1) Great Victory

2) Hope we can do the same against Eccleshill United next week

3) Awful referee, I'd like NCEL to look at his handling of the Billy Rowley incident

 

 

Garforth Town vs Hallam FC

After a defeat for both teams in their last matches they were looking forward to getting back to winning ways at the Marston Stadium home of Garforth Town.

Hallam were in their red away strip as they led us underway and kicked left to right from the main stand. Garforth were playing in their yellow and blue home kit.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) Phil Reynolds  3) Scott Mellon  4) Lee Wainwright  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Nicky Ball  7) David Knaggs  8) Tom Franklin  9) Anthony Wilson  10) Paul Hurrell  11) Billy Rowley  On the bench: 12) Ian Askey  14) Matt Eaton  15) Ashley Longstaff

Hallam started the better and straight away hammered the ball down the Garforth right. On 3 they went close after 2-3 blocked shots before the ball went out for a goal kick to Hallam. The home team were forced back by great passing and excellent teamwork by the visitors. They wouldn't back down but Garforth kept their cool to get rid of the ball. The first real chance fell to Paul Hurrell whose volley was well saved by the keeper. A corner was driven in by The Countrymen and they thought they'd scored when the ball was bundled in but it was ruled out due to offside.

Hallam continued to pressurise and Nicky Ball smashed home a 20 yarder beating the keeper as the ball nestled in the corner Hallam 1-0 Garforth Town!! Anthony Wilson was winning headers in the last third as the away side looked for another.They had the chances but didn't take them as The Miners held out. You wouldn't believe the commitment as tackles from all directions were thrown in in a bid to win the ball. Nicky Ball hammered a 30 yard volley which looked to be going wide but incredibly it went into the bottom right corner, it was simply class - Hallam 2-0 Garforth Town. The hardcore home supporters were getting angry at their side and seemed to take it out on something other than their players.

Nathan Hazeldene headed over a David Knaggs corner from 15 yards, Ants headed over from 6 yards as Hallam looked to be progressing. The last 10 minutes of the half didn't bring much as Hallam went in leading two-nil.

Half - Time at The Marston Stadium - Garforth Town 0-2 Hallam FC

Paul Hurrell could have increased Hallam's advantage he battled through the Garforth defence but he struck the ball wide. Tom Franklin went close on 53 as his 20 yard effort was parried away. No 7 seemed to be the dangerman as at free-will he tore through the opposition defence but he shot was parried. It was worrying to see Nathan Hazeldene limp off on 61 and was replaced by Matt Eaton. Anthony Wilson set up Paul Hurrell and as the keeper came out he drove a shot against the bar, the ball came back out and he hit the bar again!

Hallam started to lose their grip on the game and so did the referee. 7 again ran like a bullet through the visitor's defence but there was no - end product.

Hallam Substitution:  Paul Hurrell 10) off ---------- Ashley Longstaff 15) on

The referee sent everybody in the ground absolutely mad for the last 25 minutes. Every two minutes he blew his whistle and stopped the game for ages. He gave free-kicks for the sake of it. Garforth couldn't believe their luck and this muppet stood in the middle of pitch and ruined the game. It was like he bringing the game into disrepute. The final 15 minutes was about holding on. It was agonising for Hallam as they desperately wanted to win to boost chances of survival.

They had plenty of chances to finish a below par Garforth off but it didn't happen. On 89 Garforth got a undeserved goal back, a looping 30 yard strike that flew into the corner, Hallam 2-1 Garforth Town.

Full - Time at The Marston Stadium - Garforth Town 1-2 Hallam FC

Verdict: What an excellent performance by Hallam. The commitment was top class and the effort was 110%. Shame we haven't played at home in two months. Glapwell will be a tough game next week, they are on form. But if we put the effort in we'll win

My Man of the Match: To be honest I am not sure. Nicky Ball gets it this week for two brilliant goals. Tom Franklin and Anthony Wilson played well.

Final Comment: Bit of banter today between myself and 10-15 hardcore Garforth fans. The ground was superb and is the best I've seen on my travels this season. It just looks so modern.

 

 

 

Selby Town vs Hallam FC

Hallam came into the game on a high after winning at local rivals Sheffield last week.Selby were very inconsistent at home so this had all the pieces to form an interesting game.

Selby kicked off playing towards the seated end of Flaxley Road Ground and Hallam left - right towards the terrace behind the goal.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) Phil Reynolds  4) Matt Plant  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Nicky Ball  7) Billy Rowley  8) Tom Franklin  9) Paul Hurrell  10) Anthony Wilson  11) Greg Mason. On the bench:  12) Ian Askey  14) Matt Eaton.

Hallam set the tempo early on as they knew a solid start was a must for a tough clash against tough opposition. Both teams failed to settle down and it was hindered when Martin Taylor needed treatment for a clash in the box. Tom Franklin had a strike blocked on 2 as they dominated possession. A couple of chances followed but they were barricaded by Selby's stern defence. The Robins woke up and got going. They were quick on the break and mistakes weren't an option for The Countrymen. No 8, smashed the ball wide of the post with an ambitious 30 yarder.

Nicky Ball tried his luck with a long range effort but it didn't trouble the keeper as it sailed over the bar. The away side started knocking the ball around well and Selby were chasing thin air - trying to intercept. On 11 the home team won a free-kick in their own half and 8 again thought he was clever but his long effort was off target. The best chance of the game fell to Anthony Wilson; sweet build up play down the right led to Billy Rowley crossing to the near post and Wilson hammered the ball against the post. Town failed to breach the away team's defence and the right back hit a daisy grass cutter that would have been classed as a grubber kick in rugby - it went embarrassingly wide.

Saying that No 8 almost made up for his poor efforts before to force Taylor into a top drawer save as his left footer was spectacularly tipped onto the bar and out for a corner. This was all inside the first 14 minutes! The game lost its tempo and never seemed to regain it as both teams were resigned into scrappy, battling play in the midfield. "You've got to clear your lines!" is a very commonly used phrase in football and Hallam didn't do so as Adam Wash tapped the ball home from 6 yards to make it - Selby Town 1-0 Hallam.

Passing the ball around neatly and nicely is all very well if the final ball is good but when it comes to nothing you feel quite annoyed. The away side did do this for time and the game was edgy. The Robins had the players to intercept the ball, counter attack and score. The referee started to lose authority when he harshly booked Anthony Wilson for challenge on one of the wingers.

The last 15 minutes of the half was calm as the home team just looked to go defensive. It was a frustrating time as 8 almost doubled the lead with a free header which bounced wide. The passing was good and deserves praise as it was one of the better first half's of the season.

Half - Time at Flaxley Road Ground - Selby Town 1-0 Hallam FC

The second half started off quiet and little was created for a while. On 52 Anthony Wilson forced the keeper into a save as he shot towards the bottom corner. Even though Hallam weren't creating chances they certainly got the accuracy of the passing just right. Tom Franklin hammered the ball just over the bar as it joined the list of missed efforts.

The front two of Town had the intention of adding to the score and used their pace to burst into the box. 10 shot wide from 12 yards and Wash broke down the wing and Phil Reynolds forced the ball out for a corner. A corner from the right had Hallam panicking as the ball was whipped onto the edge of the 6 yard box, luckily the ball was struck wide and Hallam could breath. Adam Wash headed wide as the game wore on.

Tom Matthews came on for Selby and he made instant impact. Martin Taylor came out to clear the ball and he was left with the simple job of passing the ball into the net - Selby Town 2-0 Hallam FC.

Hallam Substitution: 12) Matt Eaton on ---------- 6) Nicky Ball off

Taylor made up by keeping Hallam in the game saving well to stop Hallam losing heavily. The game faded away but they battled hard and gave it a real go to pull a goal back.Tom Franklin went close as Ian Askey came on to force a shot on goal. He shot wide on 90 as Selby won 2-0

Full - Time at Flaxley Road Ground - Selby Town 1-0 Hallam FC

Verdict: Hallam didn't deserve to lose 2-0. Two mistakes cost them the game and if luck had been on our side we may have been talking about another Hallam victory.

Final Comment: I'm glad I'm not going back till at least next season! The pitch didn't look up to standard and the stands looked jèju'ne

 

Sheffield Club vs Hallam FC

Hallam came into the game on a bad run but it was derby day so anything could happen. Sheffield went rampant on Long Eaton a few weeks ago winning 8-0 but this wasn't going to happen today. Derby day it was so the stage was set at the Bright Finance Stadium in Dronfield for a feisty encounter between two legendary teams.

Hallam set us underway kicking right - left towards the covered end and Sheffield left - right towards the open end.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) Lee Wainwright  3) Brett Storey  4) Matthew Plant  5) Nathan Hazeldene  6) Nick Ball  7) David Knaggs  8) Tom Franklin  9) Anthony Wilson  10) Paul Hurrell  11) Billy Rowley. On the bench: 12) Matt King  14) Phil Reynolds  15) Ashley Longstaff.

The game began at quick pace as Sheffield looked to set the tempo; winning a corner after 46 seconds however No 4's header flew wide of the target. They again attacked but a quick counter by Hallam sent the home side back up the other end fortunately a right wing cross was caught. The visitors were again knocking at Club's door as Anthony Wilson hacked down the defence well, twisting and turning past Gavin Smith. They won a corner on the right after some good play but it was headed wide.

It turned into an end to end game as both teams looked to take the lead. Good build up play by the home side almost lead to a goal but the shot went wide. A free-kick from Sheffield caused problems in the Hallam box as Martin Taylor was forced into a save with his feet. But the visitors wouldn't budge and so nearly took the lead when a foul 25 yards out gave them a free-kick, Lee Wainwright struck a low, powerful shot that was inches from going in.

Duncan Bray was the tormentor all game. He was one of the best on the pitch but Martin Taylor kept him out superbly on many occasions,as his pace caused the visitors defence problems. The Countrymen managed to hold off Sheffield but it started raining again and the pitch deteriorated which caused slipping and sliding. Bray did manage to breach the goal but his weak shot slide past the post. The away side looked to be dominating the game with excellent passing, entertaining play and were outplaying the Dronfield outfit. Bray when close again but Martin Taylor saved his effort

The game was a joy to watch but chances were few and far between for a about 6-7 minutes. Out of nothing Anthony Wilson drove forward down the left and he hit a cross which was lifted over Darren Bonnington by Billy Rowley to put Hallam into the lead to send dozens of away fans absolutely ecstatic, Sheffield Club 0-1 Hallam FC!! Hallam could only carry on and went close from free kicks soon after. Sheffield didn't want to lie down as they searched for an leveller before half - time.  Seconds before the interval the ball was headed wide from a free-kick as The Countrymen went off winning at the Bright Finance Stadium.

Half-Time at Bright Finance Stadium - Sheffield Club 0-1 Hallam FC

Hallam were looking forward to the second half as this half could bring victory! Martin Taylor's performance got better and better and better. Pulling off a terrific double save, the ball was cleared after the first strike but Taylor had to react quickly to stop a strike from the left. Two minutes later on 51 he and Duncan Bray went in for a 50-50 on the edge of the box, Bray went down and the referee reached for his pocket "Off, Off, Off!" was sung by the Sheffield fans behind that goal. Taylor was booked and Sheffield had a free-kick. In all honesty, I initially thought Bray dived but now I think he made it look worse than it actually was. Taylor pushed the resulting free-kick away.

The game turned into a nail biting encounter. Taylor was still having to stop Duncan Bray from scoring! Anthony Wilson was the Hallam dangerman as he cleverly won the ball in the midfield to run forward on many occasions. They could have easily won the game and Sheffield's luck ran out 100% as shots certain to go in just didn't! David Knaggs, one of the smallest players on the pitch was winning headers against opponents 5 or 6 inches taller than him!

Hallam FC Substitution: 12) Matt King on ----------- 8) Tom Franklin off

Matt King shook the game up a bit and added a bit of spice to Hallam's midfield. The last 10 minutes were so nail biting it was unbelieveable. Sheffield took over as they searched hard for a goal that would draw the match. It didn't happen as luck was on empty for them and on full for Hallam. Matt King struck the ball towards the top corner but it was wonderfully palmed wide by Darren Bonnington for corner. The ball was headed off for another corner that was cleared. Ants hit the bar with a header from a corner. David Knaggs managed to wriggle through the Club defence to get crosses in. Nick Ball missed in the last seconds as Hallam won!

Full-Time at Bright Finance Stadium - Sheffield Club 0-1 Hallam FC

.............................................................................11) Billy Rowley 35th minute 

Verdict: Have Hallam changed their team? No! What a performance by The Countrymen today. The first half display was excellent. There is room for improvement but if the players keep digging away they will be out the bottom 5 and up into mid-table.

My Man of the Match: Martin Taylor, no question! Top keeper and will win this every week if he carries on playing as well as he is. Duncan Bray was trying to get him sent-off in that incident - Taylor had saved all his chances.

Final Comment: Is in news and updates.

Buxton vs Hallam

Hallam came into the game having not played in three weeks and hadn't won since 22nd October. Buxton were looking to record yet another victory at Silverlands.

Buxton kicked off and were playing towards the open terrace behind the goal.

Hallam's line up: 1) Martin Taylor  2) David Knaggs  3) Scott Mellon  4)............... 5) Brett Storey  6) Nathan Hazeldene 7) Louis Axcell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Ian Askey  10) Paul Hurrell  11) Anthony Wilson. On the bench, Ashley Longstaff, Greg Mason.

Buxton started well quickly showing why they were top by getting forward. No 10 of Buxton creeped in down the left whipping the ball in but Aaron Brady flicked it just over. The away side settled in, an ambitious 35 yard strike flew wide of the post. It was end to end stuff as both teams seemed eager to impress their managers. No 10 of Buxton again creeped in on the right wing as Taylor came out he hit a shot that ended up inches from going in . No 4 of Buxton tried his luck with a 30 yard belter but flew high over the top. The away team seemed to start rushing things and a free-kick on halfway was wasted.

8 of Buxton went close with a right footer soon after as Buxton looked likely to score. The inevitable happened the Bucks counter attacked, a right wing cross was headed in at the near post by Mark Reed - 1-0 Buxton FC. Two minutes later Aaron Brady bundled the ball into the net - Buxton 2-0 Hallam FC. It could have been three on 22 when No 4's free kick was curled in but comfortably saved by Martin Taylor. Aaron Brady teed up No 4 for a shot that was tipped up and caught by Taylor which was given a round of applause by both sets of supporters.

The game turned scrappy and it looked as if Hallam could come out. They got forward but never had any clear cut chances as Buxton were in control. Brady went close again for the Bucks but his header was well saved. Anthony Wilson ran away from the home side's defence before unleashing a 20 yard effort which was palmed away for a corner. The hosts won a corner on 39 and No 2's header resulted in a scramble but Hallam cleared away. The rest of half seemed to fade away as Buxton took a two goal advantage into half - time

Half - Time at Silverlands - Buxton 2-0 Hallam

Hallam kicked off and immediately it could have been game over. A cross from the left and was belted against the post and the ball flew back to the Buck's left. Martin Taylor was forced into two saves with a haul of vicious shots. One of the corner's was whipped in and Lee Winfindale tapped the ball in - 3-0 Buxton. They were simply given room to roam the pitch. Tom Franklin hit a weak 25 yarder wide. As Hallam looked to stop Buxton from scoring again. Infact Hallam dominated the last 30 minutes.

Hallam Substitution: 10) Paul Hurrell off ---------- 15) Ashley Longstaff on

Ash almost pulled a goal back as Buxton fell asleep he smashed a effort straight at the keeper. Ian Askey was replaced by Greg Mason. Martin Taylor denied No 4 yet again by saving a left footed drive. Ashley Longstaff and Tom Franklin should have buried headers but one went wide and the other was caught. Nathan Hazeldene hammered a 30 yard free - kick over the bar after Tom Franklin had been fouled. The away team surged forward as they look for a consolation goal. On 83 all hopes were dashed as a left wing cross was converted by Shaun Doxey to make it - 4-0 Buxton.  Ashley Longstaff went agonisingly close to scoring but his shot slide past the post for a goal kick. There was a few long range efforts in the closing stages but nothing came of them.

Full - Time at Silverlands - Buxton FC 4-0 Hallam FC

Mark Reed 15, Aaron Brady 17,

Lee Winfindale 51, Shaun Doxey 83.

Verdict: Hallam were simply outclassed by Buxton. However one or two players weren't pulling their weight. The scoreline isn't a true reflection. If both teams had converted their chances it could have been totally different scoreline

My Man of the Match: Martin Taylor is my man of the match. He kept Hallam in the game pulling off some magnificent saves. He was brave and looked more than capable of doing the his job. Well Done Martin.

Hallam vs Harrogate Railway Athletic

With Hallam's dreadful form of late having won once in the last 10 and Railway scoring 12 in 4 games this game could be very one sided.

The home side kicked off and Harrogate were playing up the slope in the first half

Hallam's line up: 1) Danny Spooner  2) David Knaggs  3) Brett Storey  4) ................  5) David Hawke  6) Mark Calvin  7) Louis Axcell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Ian Askey  10) Paul Hurrell  11) Anthony Wilson.

Railway showed from the word go they were a threat and played up both flanks. Anthony Wilson flicked the ball on in midfield in the opening stages - causing trouble in the opposition defence. Brett Storey should have done better with a deep free kick - Louis Axcell picked it up, crossed and it glanced wide for a corner to Hallam. Every time Athletic attacked it was heart in mouth as they looked very dangerous on the counter. The game seemed very edgy and both sides had the ball with Harrogate creating more.

RA's No 7 played No 9 through on goal and he slotted the ball home from 12 yards, right footed, into the bottom right corner - 1-0 Harrogate Railway Athletic. It felt like one of those days and I could feel yet another defeat. The home side didn't let them have another chance for a time. Confidence loss set in throughout the Hallam side and didn't create chances or swing crosses in. Tom Franklin was fouled on the edge of the box and Axcell stepped up curling it towards the bottom corner, the keeper spilled the ball but somehow a sitter was missed from 1/2 a yard out.

The Countrymen fell apart 4 minutes later on 23 a half cleared corner found its way to No 5 who drove the ball left footed into the bottom corner 2-0 Harrogate Railway Athletic. Brett Storey hammered a 25 yard free-kick which was pushed away by the keeper. Harrogate continued to dominate as the 18th placed side struggled - they didn't look like scoring at all. Just before half time it looked to be all over - 9 of RA broke free and beautifully chipped the ball over an on rushing Danny Spooner but trickled out and looking at the linesman he was offside 45 yards out! A powerful drive by Anthony Wilson took a deflection and ran past the post for a corner.

Half - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 0-2 Harrogate Railway Athletic

Half Time Verdict: Lack of confidence and low moral made for a dull, disappointing half by Hallam's standards. They needed someone who could push forward with confidence for the second period.

The Countrymen kicked off and unsurpisingly their opponents from Starbeck began the better. They had always controlled the game and never showed any signs of letting up. On 51 a foul in the Hallam area gave Harrogate a penalty, it was game over if they scored.....No 6 runs up and pretends to be Jonny Wilkinson striking it over for 3 points - what a lovely conversion!!!

Hallam Substitution: 14 on ---------- Mark Calvin  (6)  off

It was a let off but a whizzing counter attack by Rail almost proved fatal for home team - luckily an intervention stopped a certain goal. Louis Axcell went so close with an amazing cross / shot  Ronaldinho style but it was acrobatically tipped over. Danny Spooner was in a spot of trouble when he spilled a powerful effort from long range but it went out for a corner. The hosts could only improve but to be frank they were abysmal and you couldn't see a way back into the game for them. HRA won a free - kick and the cross was swung in and cleared.

I spoke too soon as Hallam scored on 75! Axcell crossed and it was bundled into the net but the scorer was unknown - 2-1 Harrogate RA They should have had an undeserved equaliser, a cross was volleyed out of the ground from 12 yards! The away side looked to put the game out of reach but in the closing stages the hosts defended & attacked well. Ants missed a golden chance and if he'd equalised the last 10 minutes may have been totally different. It was a very tense finale, Railway kept the ball near the corner flag as the clock ticked down

Full Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-2 Harrogate Railway Athletic

Verdict: Self belief, confidence and moral were running on empty as Hallam could have been beaten by more goals if it wasn't for last gasp tackles and the officials

For a second successive game I've decided there was No Man of the Match.

Final Comment: What can I say gloomy times loom at Sandygate if this awful form continues. Brodsworth winning again at Long Eaton today what next? With Arnold, Liversedge and Buxton coming up in the next three games I can see goals being conceded          

 

Hallam FC vs Armthorpe Welfare

This was the 2nd time the teams had met each other in 4 days and Armthorpe could go 6th. On paper it was going to be a tight game.

Hallam were kicking up towards The Plough Inn and Armthorpe kicked off playing down the slope.

Hallam's line up: 1) Danny Spooner  2) David Knaggs  3) Brett Storey  4) Martin Murray  5) David Hawke  6) Mark Calvin  7) Danny Campbell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Ian Askey  10) Paul Wurrell  11) Scott Mellon

Hallam grabbed the ball off Armthorpe and pumped the ball up the left. It was scrappy and both teams had spells of possession. No 7 of Wellie drilled a 20 yarder nearer the corner flag than the net after they built up well. They fell asleep and Hallam pushed on but couldn't find a way round a solid defence - Brett Storey's inswinger was easily caught by the keeper.  No 7 of Thorpe again made a hash of a drive that flew straight wide. Mark Calvin pulled off a brilliant tackle intervening with the away side's No 9. Ian Askey layed the ball down for Knaggsy whose fierce looping cross sailed through the box for open play.

Armthorpe Welfare Substitution: 15 on ---------- 2 off

Mark Calvin made another outstanding tackle, this time on halfway taking out his opponent and amazingly kept the ball in. David Knaggs pulled an 18 yard strike just past the post after a great attack.  Paul Wurrell was causing problems for the Armthorpe defence and was rugby tackled by the keeper but the referee decided no offence had been committed.  Wurrell had another struck an acrobatic effort wide. David Knaggs battled to get to the edge of the D but lost his footing however he managed to worm out a shot that took a double deflection to wrong foot the keeper and slide in - 1-0 Hallam!!

They weren't switched on and Armthorpe scored! A cross was swung in and was headed into the corner - 1-1!! A 15 yard effort was rifled in by Armthorpe to come from behind as Hallam looked on - 2-1 Armthorpe. Lookily the home side kept the ball for 2 minutes, as soon as they gave it away disaster struck. The linesman thought twice about giving an offside, the hosts defence stopped - No 10 ran free to hammer home his one on one - 3-1 Armthorpe. The half - time whistle went and it gave Hallam chance to recouperate as Welfare walked off in delight.

Half - Time at Sandygate -  Hallam 1-3 Armthorpe Welfare

I walked across to the open side (opposite the main stand) to get a better view

The second period began with Hallam dominating the opening stages. Paul Wurrell went close after a Knaggsy knock down but he shot wide. The game got tedious with few chances and no action.

Hallam Substitution: Martin Murray (4) off ---------- Phil Reynolds (14) on

Brett Storey's free kick was cleared but a following shot produced a wonderful save by the keeper - it came back out and a poor effort landed in tree behind the goal.

Hallam Substitution: Danny Campbell (7) off ---------- Louis Axcell (15) on

David Hawke tested the keeper with a fine header which should been planted into the top corner. Hawkey was in action at the other end, No 7 crossed in and he almost put his clearance in the back of the Hallam net as it flew just over. Louis Axcell hit a thunderous 30 yarder - the keeper decided it was to hot to handle as he parried away. 

Hallam Substitution: Mark Calvin (6) off ---------- John Barton (12) on

Hallam pushed for a way back into the game but couldn't find an opening as the match drifted into Armthorpe's hands. Louis Axcell saw red for a lunge on an opponent - the ref took ages on it and the inevitable happened. No 10 took advantage of the 10 men as he ran clear to walk the ball in from 6 yards - 4-1 Armthorpe. It was game over and The Countrymen knew they were to suffer yet another heavy home defeat. John Barton and several others came to the conclusion that an advantage of theirs was lost before the fourth goal. Despite shouts to  " Leave it!"  and "Come away". Barton thought he was clever and deservedly got booked. Fourth goal or not Hallam weren't going to come from behind so late in the game.

Full - Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-4 Armthorpe Welfare

Verdict: Hallam made costly mistakes which gave Welfare the game. The home side didn't deserve 3 points at all - the performance was lacklustre in patches. The lack of chances resulted in a severe lost of confidence. The older and more experienced should be setting a better example.

Armthorpe Welfare vs Hallam FC

This was a vital game for Hallam with their 3rd game in 5 days against an Armthorpe side having scored 14 goals in 4 home games. If Armthorpe won they'd go 8th - up 7 places.        

Hallam were playing down the slope towards the open end and Welfare up towards the covered end.

Hallam's line up: 1) Danny Spooner  2) David Knaggs  3) Brett Storey  4) David Hawke  5) Lee Wainwright  6) John Barton  7) Danny Campbell  8) Tom Franklin  9) Ian Askey  10) Ashley Longstaff  11) Scott Mellon

The visitors kicked off and quickly won a free - kick but it was tipped out for corner the result was the ball been cleared by the Welfare defence. Tom Franklin should have given the Countrymen the lead with a bouncing shot which was caught by the keeper. Again Hallam had a golden opportunity, the offside flag went up and Hallam seemed to switch off, a cross was delivered however it was side-footed over the bar from 12 yards. All Armthorpe could conjure up was a few hopeful long balls and they seemed to handle it if they couldn't get to the ball. They finally arrived in the Hallam half but the product of a great move was an 18 yard strike which went well wide.

The away side fought back with an excellent counter attack, the ball was driven in and Ian Askey's head was pushed away for Wellie to clear. Ashley Longstaff's low 25 yard effort was met by the keeper's arms. On the half hour mark with Armthorpe still struggling to do anything with the ball their opponents may have taken the lead - a free-kick on the edge of the box whistled past the post for a goal kick.

However Welfare had held on enough to stay in the game. No 7 on the right started to bug Hallam's left side with penetrating attacks - his crosses and trickery caused problems in the visitors defence. Brett Storey's free-kick on 36 caused problems for Armthorpe as it bobbled around before being cleared. Danny Campbell might have scored with a header from Storey's right wing cross but the ball in didn't have enough pace on it

Half Time at Welfare Ground - Armthorpe Welfare 0-0 Hallam FC

As soon as the teams kicked off they were back at the centre circle. Armthorpe swung the ball in  from the left and a header down was thumped into the top right corner - 1-0 Armthorpe Welfare. Hallam woke up - Welfare fell asleep, a shot was blazed over from Hallam. Saying that Wellie could have done better with a 5 yarder that was smacked over the bar. Hallam had their fans panicking as two high back passes caused problems for Danny Spooner but he dealt with both under pressure.

The more Wellie pushed up the more likely the visitors looked like conceding. Several shots flew wide and the away side were hanging on by the skin of their teeth.

Hallam Substitution: 6) John Barton off ---------- 12) Greg Mason on

Tom Franklin proved the Thorpe defence was breachable and not solid as he burrowed through down the right wing, he cut inside before unleashing a curling effort that ended up on top of the net.  I looked on as a 2nd was added, No 8's 15 yard shot managed to creep into the corner - 2-0 Armthorpe Welfare. Hallam searched for an consolation, they attacked and spent the last 10 minutes with corners, free kick and throw ins but luck was going against them as Armthorpe were going to win at home again in the league. Ian Askey missed a golden chance with a tap in on the angle that fell into the side-netting.

Full Time at Welfare Ground - Armthorpe Welfare 2-0 Hallam FC

Verdict: Hallam should have taken their chances and if they had done we could have been talking about a annihilation by them but it wasn't to be. In my opinion some players weren't switched on at all. Ashley Longstaff, David Knaggs and David Hawke were very lively and they were committed.

My Man of the Match: David Knaggs crossed, passed, tackled and battled all game. He played exceptional he stood out and looked as if he wanted to win. Having seen Knaggsy earlier in the season he looked a mediocre player but has stuck at it and come on.

Final Comment: I've seen every game since the September 27th and have built my own impressions of the team but tonight was a big lapse. We need to take our chances and we'll fly up the league

Harrogate Railway Athletic vs Hallam FC - NCEL League Cup

Athletic had won 2 of their last 5 and Hallam came in having beat Armthorpe M.W on thursday.

Hallam kicked towards the massive covered end and Railway to the open end

Hallam line up: 1) Danny Spooner  2) David Knaggs  3) Scott Mellon  4) Brett Storey  5) Lee Wainwright  6) Kalvin  7) John Barton  8) Martin Murray  9) Ashley Longstaff  10) Anthony Wilson  11) Greg Mason.

Harrogate kicked off at Station View and from the off you just knew it was going to be action packed. Ashley Longstaff was given the ball in the box but his shot from 15 yards went wide. He did go close on 5 after a long ball but his effort was easily collected by the keeper. The first 10 - 15 minutes were scrappy both teams used their possession well. Railway should have taken the lead but No 6's lob was stuck over the bar. Martin Murray had a claim for a corner when his deflected shot flew past the post. Athletic clawed into the game but the visitors held back a series of dangerous attacks. Ash went extremely close, his left footer rolled across the face of goal which looked like going in. At the other end Rail’s No 6 who had looked like scoring before put the ball inches wide from 15 yards

The away side were stunned after Harrogate attacked, a shot was blocked by Danny Spooner then the rebound was converted by No 6 who was in an offside position 1-0 Harrogate Railway Athletic. Railway didn’t expect for the Countrymen to come back quick but Hallam ran up and Anthony Wilson ran into the box his strike spilled through the keeper – 1-1!!! The blues looked more like taking the lead, Ants burrowed through the Athletic back line but his cross was blocked and hammered away. The away team worked hard in all departments and looked a different side to the one at Shirebrook last week. No 8 of Gate hit a dipper but it floated out of the ground.

No 7 crossed from the right and it was headed out for a corner. Then the visitors pushed forward and Greg Mason's vicious 25 yarder was palmed wide.

Half - Time at Station View - Harrogate Railway Athletic 1-1 Hallam FC

Harrogate Railway substitution: No 2 off ---------- No 12 on

Hallam kicked off the second-half playing towards the open end. They opened up and Ants put David Knaggs' cross wide. Longstaff did well to manoeuvre pass three Railway defenders and tried to hook the ball through to Anthony Wilson however the keeper claimed it. Brett Storey crossed and a bouncer of a header was caught. Harrogate went incredibly close after a 20 yard strike crashed against the underside of the crossbar and fell in the box. Ash looked closest to making it 2-1 - his 25 yard shot ended up just past the post. No 9 of Athletic struck a deflected shot which ended up out of the ground. Ants Wilson should have buried a one on one after a super Hallam counter-attack.

It proved a costly miss as Railway scored, a volley from 25 yards hit a Hallam player and landed in the bottom left corner - 2-1 Harrogate Railway Athletic. The blues had the ball but failed to create as a lack of confidence spread through the team in the last 20 minutes. They almost equalised -  a cross from Longstaff was headed towards goal by Ants whose header was caught spectacularly by the keeper. Rail who'd counter attacked throughout the second - half increased their lead, Scott Jackson turned in a cross from the left 3-1. Ash could have reduced the deficit but he blazed over from 12 yards

Harrogate Railway substitution: No 11 off ---------- No 15 on

--------------------------------------No 10 off ---------- No 14 on

Scott Mellon's 35 yard thunderbolt flew over the bar. Both teams had chances in the closing stages as the game faded away.

Full - Time at Station View - Harrogate Railway Athletic 3-1 Hallam FC

Verdict: On the first half performance Hallam should have won but as usual they let the opponents get on top in the second - half. In my opinion Railway were lucky to get 3 goals, the first was offside, the second was deflected horribly. If Hallam can perform for 90 minutes on their day they'll destroy someone like Harrogate three or four nil

My Man of the Match: Kalvin, he was influential throughout and made some great passes. He tackled well and if he does as well as he did today he could be the star of Hallam's midfield

Final Comment: To be trueful I'm glad were out the cup we can concentrate on the league. At this level of football there are too many competitions; The League, Presidents Cup, FA Cup, FA Vase, League Cup and County Cups.

Armthorpe Miners Welfare vs Hallam FC - S&H Senior Cup 2nd round

Hallam played in blue and white hoops as the hosts played in Green and Black.

Hallam kicked off playing from left to right towards the open end. The visitors started the better looking to attack. Ben Furniss was injured by a dangerous tackle just 45 seconds in. Armthorpe pushed forward but were broken down by a counter attack from Hallam, a cross came in but it was smacked straight at the keeper. Ben Furniss came off in the 8th minute to be replaced by John Barton. The Countrymen camped in the Welfare half as they searched for a way into the box but failed to create a real opening.

David Knaggs almost broke the deadlock when his thunderous shot 25 yarder was palmed away by the keeper for a corner. The ball was played in and Hallam almost scored when a bouncer was caught by the goalie. The away team capped off a delightful move when Danny Campbell hammered in a left-footer from 6 yards straight into the top corner - 1-0 Hallam!! They almost doubled their advantage when a shot across goal went agonisedly wide. However Hallam's next break proved fatal for Wellie as Tom Franklin connected with a through ball and his effort was fired to the keeper's right  - 2-0 Hallam!!!

Ashley Longstaff could have finished the game off with a bullet of a strike however it was tipped onto the bar. The ball came out a shot hit the post and then was put out of the ground. DC missed a glorious chance after becoming one on one with the keeper but his placed shot slipped just past the post. That was the last real action of the half.

Half Time at Welfare Ground - Armthorpe Miners Welfare 0-2 Hallam FC 

The second half started uneventful with little to note of. Nevertheless Miners Welfare opened up and decided to attack. Danny Spooner made his first save of the game when he caught a header. Armthorpe had possession though they failed to capitalise. Spooner collected a weak shot from around 20 yards. Hallam did the same and with the tempo rising the hosts struggled to cope with excess pressure. 

Ashley Longstaff was flattened in the corner and the referee turned a blind eye then unbelievably gave Welfare a free-kick! Then came the most blatant bit of rule bending of the night, Hallam played the ball through the middle and the front line were given offside - I was stood behind the linesman. Maybe the three officials were trying to even the game up and bring the home side a glimmer of hope.

When we thought the game was dead and buried the ghouls came out and gave us a surprise...Armthorpe ransacked the defence, a cross was parried and was fired home - 2-1 Hallam. Anthony Wilson came on on 80. After 4 minutes on the field he was booked! The away side had a free-kick on the right wing as they pushed to secure victory but it was headed out. Longstaff turned and pass the ball to Greg Mason who threaded a ball into Ants.....one on one..... he hammers it in - 3-1 Hallam FC!!! Game Over!

Full Time at Welfare Ground - Armthorpe Miners Welfare 1-3 Hallam FC

Verdict: Hallam performed brilliantly in the first half and worked as a team.They created chances and helped each other out. Although we won it, it could have been double and the scoreline isn't a true reflection of a well deserved victory. Anthony Wilson did tell me at half time that we'd win by 5 or 6  

 

 

 

Hallam vs Shirebrook Town

It was 17th vs 6th at Sandygate with Shirebrook having won 3 in 5 and Hallam losing 4-3 at Mickleover last weekend.

Hallam were playing up the slope and Shirebrook down it.

Hallam's line up: 1) Danny Spooner 2) David Knaggs 3) Scott Mellon 4) Brett Storey 5) Martin Murray 6) John Barton 7) Danny Campbell 8) Tom Franklin 9) Ashley Longstaff 10) Greg Mason 11) Ben Furniss  (Subs)  12) Anthony Wilson 14) Nick Gill 15) David Hawke

Shirebrook kicked off and the game started slow. The match didn't get going for a few minutes but Brook had a chance after a through ball but it was scuffed wide. They came back and a 25 yard free-kick just a minute later was blasted wide. Hallam struggled to get going, No 10 tried to lob the ball over Spooner from a long ball but it was easily caught. The hosts started to push forward on the left however the game ended up quite scrappy. Shire attacked No 10 played it to No 7 whose cross was headed wide by Shaun Roberts.

You started to wonder what Hallam would get in this game. The home side gain ground  and a free-kick was directed away for a corner. Greg Mason got on the end of it with an overhead kick which flew wide. Ashley Longstaff fired a 20 yarder wide 2 minutes later. How the hosts didn't go ahead I did not know. In just over 5 minutes Hallam had a range of chances from everywhere but Longstaff and Danny Campbell were both caught offside. Martin Rowbottom hit a dismal 40 yarder near the corner flag as Shirebrook held Hallam back. Shirebrook missed a sitter! No 6's header from 1 yard somehow hit the bar.

Towards the end of an entertaining half it was end - end stuff with both teams creating chances. The Countrymen should have taken the lead after wonderful play down the left and a cross/shot was palmed away by Mark Hales for a corner.

Half-Time at Sandygate - Hallam FC 0-0 Shirebrook Town

The second half began very slowly with little created. The hosts had most of the possession but failed to take advantage of it. Out of nothing Danny Spooner came out to block a Town strike but it fell to No 10 who slotted home from 12 yards - Shirebrook Town 1-0 Hallam FC. Ben Furniss fired the ball into the air which looked like it was going fly out of the ground, amazingly enough the wind brought it back into box unluckily nobody got anything on it. John Barton had a chance, his bobbling shot was collected by the keeper.

Hallam battled hard and the game turned quite physical. Chances were few and far between and the game was relatively quiet as Shirebrook just looked to keep Hallam in their half in the closing stages. Spooner had to save from No 10 with his feet, 2 minutes later a goal mouth scramble in the home side's box erupted but the visitors couldn't find a second. David Knaggs came closest to an equaliser when he smashed a thunderous 40 yard volley that was tipped over by Mark Hales. John Barton and Ashley Longstaff both had shots saved in the last 2 minutes.

Full-Time at Sandygate - Hallam FC 0-1 Shirebrook Town

Verdict:  When Hallam had possession they failed to take advantage of it. Shirebrook took there chances well and could have had 2-3 goals. However their defence made it difficult for the hosts and are worthy of 5th place

My Man of the Match: I'll be honest, David Knaggs had never stood out before this game, but today he played with conviction  at right back. He supported Danny Campbell well on the right.

Final Comment: With fellow strugglers Armthorpe Welfare coming up twice in the next 2 weeks it is vital we pick up 6 points. We should try and get victories against Armthorpe M.W. and Harrogate Railway in the cups as some silverware would be nice

 

Mickleover Sports vs Hallam FC

Hallam faced a Mickleover side which hadn't won in three matches but Hallam came to Station Road on the back of a 3-2 victory over Brodsworth.

Hallam's line up: 1 Danny Spooner, 2 David Knaggs, 3 Scott Mellon, 4 Brett Storey, 5 Martin Murray, 6 Tom Franklin, 7 Louis Axcell, 8 John Barton, 9 Ian Askey, 10 Greg Mason. 11 Danny Campbell. Subs: 12 Ashley Longstaff, 15 Anthony Wilson.

Hallam kicked off and played towards the clubhouse. The match started off quiet but Mickleover attacked well down the left. 4 minutes gone and No 9 had his shot blocked. Mickleover then had another couple of chances when No 7's shot was obstructed, play continued with a right wing cross which was swung in and a header was tipped over wonderfully by Danny Spooner. The following corner was easily cleared out by Hallam. The Countrymen struggled as Mickleover piled on the pressure. At the other end a Louis Axcell cross was put out for a corner which was cleared.

Sports put in a few crosses but nobody really attacked them. Ian Askey was unlucky when an Axcell cross bounced up and hit his hand and the referee gave a free-kick to the home side. A series of shots from the home side were blocked consequently a cross was impeded and flew out for a corner, which resulted. A corner on 14 was driven in and at the back-post it was turned into the top-left hand corner from 15 yards to make it - Mickleover 1-0 Hallam. 30 seconds later it was almost 2-0 when a cross from the left was hit and bounced off the inside of the post and out. The hosts were trying their luck from 20 - 35 yards out and one shot from 30 yards was dragged horribly wide.

Mickleover's spell of pressure was over and Hallam opened up. An offside on Mickleover allowed Hallam to get forward and they attacked down the left, Tom Franklin ended up one on one with Tony Penty (Mickleover keeper) an chipped the ball over him into the middle of net to equalise - Mickleover 1-1 Hallam. The away side worked hard for a second goal but couldn't get the ball in the box.

Hallam Substitution: 3) Scott Mellon off ---------- 12) Ashley Longstaff on

Greg Mason went to left-back and Longstaff went upfront Louis Axcell put in another dangerous cross which was headed over at the far-post. The game got tedious. No 8 of Mickleover hit a 35 yarder which went out of the ground. A long ball / pass down the left by Mickleover hit one of the floodlight's. Ashley Longstaff hit a left footed shot just over the bar from 20 flagged for offside on the Mickleover strikers but the referee didn't notice. The Sports drove the ball in and a header was yards . 5 minutes later Ash pulled the ball back for Ian Askey whose effort rolled wide. Only a minute left and the linesman pushed over the bar for a corner. The Hallam bench were absolutely livid but the corner was cleared. The referee blew for half-time.

Half Time at Station Road - Mickleover Sports 1-1 Hallam FC

On 47 Hallam won a free-kick on halfway and headed out by the Mickleover defence for a corner. The corner was cleared and Sports broke. The hosts missed a sitter when a cross was headed wide from 6 yards! They attacked and Martin Murray was forced to hook the ball out for a corner. The Countrymen had a chance, a cross was deflected for a corner and Martin Murray hit the post on the angle from 3 yards. Louis Axcell took ages getting to the corner spot then fluffed it into the side-netting?!

A free-kick on halfway was played through down the left and Longstaff almost got a touch on it as Tony Penty collected it. Mickleover forced their way through the away side's defence and No 8 struck a low left footed shot into the bottom - left hand corner - Mickleover Sports 2-1 Hallam FC. The visitors had a good chance when a well judged inswinger was struck just wide by Longstaff. The home side's keeper was forced to push a free-kick wide after pressure from Hallam's players. The keeper was auspicious when he slipped and the ball fled for a Sports player who took the ball. 

Mickleover Sports Substitution: 16 on ---------- 7 off  

A Longstaff receives the ball on the edge of the box.... he turns....shoots from 12 yards....and scores!! He places it through an impossible gap between the keeper and post into the bottom corner Mickleover Sports 2-2 Hallam FC!! His Mum behind me went crazy as he equalised for Hallam.

Hallam Substitution: 9) Ian Askey off ---------- 15) Anthony Wilson on

Mickleover Sports Substitution: 10 off ---------- 14 on

The referee was having an injurious game and it didn't get any better. When a deliberate handball from a Mickleover player wasn't given, the ball was driven in but a shot skewed wide. Hallam tried to push forward for winner and were undone when a ball in  from the left was headed in by Channon North - Mickleover Sports 3-2 Hallam FC.  Anthony Wilson nearly equalised a header of his flew past the post. Spooner put Hallam close to certain defeat when he hit a clearance off No 14 of Sports which was inches from going in but was cleared off the line.

Hallam were running out of time to salvage a point from the game. Martin Murray's headed over from 15 yards. Hallam didn't know how much time was left and Danny Spooner came up for a corner. The ball was swung in......Tom Franklin was there! He heads home and Hallam looked like they were going home with a point. Hearts were broken after Mickleover pushed up field in search of a winner. The keeper came up and I turned away. The next thing I knew Mickleover fans were going crackers as they scored with seconds left

Full Time at Station Road - Mickleover Sports 4-3 Hallam FC

Verdict: Both teams had a spell of possession and had their chances. Hallam didn't deserve to lose but a draw would have been a fair result. Hallam know how to score but they also know how to concede.

My Man of the Match:

L Axcell: A great performance by Hallam's right winger today he really worked hard.

T Franklin: His goals were essential. Goals win games and he proved it.

A Longstaff: Another great performance and really put himself about in Mickleover defence

 

Sorry I missed deadline as a series technical errors have plagued me tonight.

Hallam vs Brodsworth Welfare

Hallam played up the slope in the first half and Broddy down it in this vital six-pointer.

The game started off quiet with neither team creating any chances. Broddy did start to open up with good play down the wings and they began to swing some crosses in. Tom Franklin wriggled through the Welfare defence and hit a deflected shot which went out for a corner. A couple of minutes later Brodsworth again broke through Hallam's defence and they won a free-kick 25 yards out which was driven in and Lee Beckley headed home at the back post to make it - Brodsworth 1-0 Hallam.

Hallam then realised this wasn't going to be easy but produced the best spell of football they had in ages. The home side started to attack down the right and Welfare's defence was easily breached. Uncertainty among the Broddy defence loomed. The hosts had the ball and a shot was palmed away from 8 yards by the keeper but it was headed in 2-3 yards out!! No goal it was disallowed for offside! One of Brodsworth's players tried his luck from 40 yards with a volley which was caught by Danny Spooner.

On 27 Brodsworth keeper made an outstanding save when a volley from 25 yards was spectacularly tipped over. The next piece of action came on 34 when a free-kick from the left was driven in and from 15 yards Greg Mason of Hallam headed the ball into the far corner 1-1. Two minutes later it could have been 2-1 when Louis Axcell's cross was headed out for a corner Hallam got the ball in only for the visitors to slam it back out, it went back in and a shot was cleared off the line. On 41 an excellent move down the right by Hallam was capped off wonderfully when an acrobatic effort by Greg Mason managed to sneak into the bottom left hand corner 2-1 Hallam.

It turned out to be the last bit of major action as Hallam led at half-time

Half-Time at Sandygate - Hallam 2-1 Brodsworth Welfare

The first few minutes of the second-half gave an insight into what was going to happen. It was quiet and bleak. Hallam had couple of shots from 30 yards out which went wide. Then a corner was swung in from the right and the ball sailed past the strikers and out to the left. On 57 Hallam crossed the ball in and the ball was headed past the Brodsworth keeper by Ian Askey to make it - Hallam 3-1 Brodsworth Welfare!!  The manager of Hallam sent me to get a football pumped up. Meanwhile Brodsworth clawed a way back into the game, although I didn't see it I think Leon Radford scored to pull it back to Hallam 3-2 Brodsworth Welfare.

Hallam knew Brodsworth weren't going to lie down and took the sting out them. Hallam just wanted to hold on for half an hour but it wasn't going to be easy Brodsworth had come from 3-1 down before, away at table topping Buxton. The hosts tactics were to put the ball down the wings. The last 20 minutes were quite dull and a bit anxious. On 87 No 10 for Hallam was clear on goal after running down the right wing but the angle proved to much for him as he slotted the ball wide and out for a goal kick. No 10 should have killed the game off when his volley was well caught by the Brodsworth keeper.

The game ended appallingly as two players started fighting in Broddies area then two Hallam players started scrapping and it got into a mass brawl. It was unsporting as the game had almost finished and the home side had virtually won the game. The referee didn't book anybody just gave a severe warning to a Broddy player and one of Hallam's

Full Time at Sandygate - Hallam 3-2 Brodsworth Welfare

Verdict  Despite a poor start by Hallam the overall first half performance was very good. They worked as a team and created chances. Though Brodsworth's defence was uncertain they did get forward when Hallam let their foot of the accelerator. The team looked miles better today and go down to Mickleover with confidence.

My Man of the Match  I can't name any individual player. I'm naming the whole side as they worked together and helped each other out. The goals were good and they created chances.

 

 

Pickering Town vs Hallam FC

Pickering were in blue and Hallam in Red / Black - Hallam were playing towards the covered terrace where the Pickering fans were.

Hallam kicked off and they started off the brightest winning the ball straight away and Hallam just hooked the ball down the line towards Anthony Wilson. However whenever Hallam had the ball they did pass it around quiet nicely having The Pikes on their toes. Danny Spooner had a save to though when a through ball was played and a shot was hit headed for the bottom corner which he palmed wide for a corner.  After that for around 10 minutes you would think Hallam were 6th not 16th with some brilliant passing along both wings, the variety of passing was excellent; long balls, short passes and superb switching. The one thing Hallam lacked was the finishing from the crossing. The visitors made a big mistake when a pass on halfway was cut out and No 7 set in No 9 who put just wide from 15 yards.

Pickering's big left winger No 11 ran into the box and hit a weak shot which the keeper collected. The hosts looked shaky in defence when Hallam seemed to literally walk through their half passing the ball freely before eventually the ball was put out for a corner. The corner was swung in and the ball was cleared out but Danny Campbell struck a 25 yard volley which just went wide. The next action came on 22 when a free kick for Hallam (which was won on halfway)was drove in and a header was caught. On 27 the deadlock was broken when Pickering finally broke down the visitors, Hallam failed to stop the hosts when they stormed down the wing the ball was crossed in and the tall lad upfront (No 10) tapped in - Pickering Town 1-0 Hallam FC. From that point on the game was turned upside down - totally.

The bad news for Hallam got worse when Anthony Wilson was forced to come off through injury

Hallam Substitution - 10 Anthony Wilson off - 15 Ryan Campbell on

The game went very quiet with both teams making progress up each other's wings. Hallam defence inundated with balls forward from the opponents midfield putting the balls everywhere. Hallam were closing the Pickering players down well but when the didn’t the home side seemed to get through the defence easily

Half Time at Mill Lane - Pickering Town 1-0 Hallam FC

Hallam were playing towards the seated stand behind the goal and Pickering towards their fans.

Pickering kicked off and Hallam started the way they started the first with some good passing. On 49 a superb cross was headed by Troy Bennett however the keeper tipped over the bar. From the corner a shot was hit out of the ground. Pickering put there foot on the accelerator and after being under pressure for the first 5 minutes of the half. The crosses came in and the strong crowd got behind them. On 52 it was curtains for Hallam when after some lovely work on the left the ball was played in and No 7 tapped it into the bottom right hand corner which made it Pickering Town 2-0 Hallam FC.

For a prolonged period Pickering attacked nevertheless there was no real action, The Pikes took the game by force and seemed to be quick and pacy side. They kept the ball and didn’t let the visitors anywhere near it. As the only fan there I tried to get Hallam going but to no avail. In the 64th minute Ian Askey came off and No 14 came on. I had my heart in my mouth when Pickering tore apart the Hallam defence before No 10 tapped in from 12 yards - Pickering Town 3-0 Hallam FC.  Ashley Longstaff came on for No 6.

Unusually Hallam got back into the game with 3 strikers winning everything. The referee gave some decision's Pickering's fans didn’t like. Hallam got forward playing down the left in particular and getting the ball in well. Pickering were extremely lucky not to concede a few goals and for time you thought Hallam would score. I thought Hallam could have had 2 goals but with a combination of good clearances and bad finishing the home side got away with taking the visitors softly.

The away side had a chance when a 30 yarder was struck but it was collected by the keeper. On 82 Ashley Longstaff was sandwiched in between two defenders unbelievably he managed to get a shot in from 20 yards which was caught. A minute later he had another shot this time it was at the keeper which he hit from 18 yards. On 86 Hallam again stormed towards goal and the ball was driven in from the left and No 14 hits a shot from 12 yards out straight into the bottom left corner - Pickering Town 3-1 Hallam FC!! 3 minutes later a run from No 14 of Pickering was finished 25 yards out when he chipped the ball over an out rushing Danny Spooner into the top right corner - Pickering Town 4-1 Hallam FC. Seconds later the whistle went.

Full Time at Mill Lane - Pickering Town 4-1 Hallam FC

Verdict: Hallam were unlucky to lose 4-1 but midfield didnt seem to exist from the 50th - 74th minutes. The closing down was good nevertheless Pickering went rampant. Their quick and pacy attack was too hot to handle for Hallam. We created our chances though we didnt take them there were signs that we can get forward and penetrate a defence well.

 

My Man of the Match: Danny Spooner had a good game pulling off some great saves. He didnt really have a chance with the goals. He in my opinion stood out from the rest. Well Done Danny!!

 

Final Comment: The away support was poor today even though it was the furthest ground away. If you really support Hallam show it, the lads need cheering on.

 

Well Done to the home side in Pickering and Good Luck - nice ground anyway seems to be about the best I've seen in this league

 

Hallam vs Selby Town

With Hallam playing up the slope and with it chucking it down the first half would be interesting.

Hallam immediately won the ball after Selby off and won a corner after they put together some good passing in midfield. The short corner was played and the cross was caught. Soon after Hallam were on the ball again and started to neatly knock the ball around but the passing was too tidy and Selby intercepted then smacked the ball away. Hallam started to pressurise the Selby defence with force but they looked well organized at the back. Hallam won a throw in 20 yards out David Knaggs crossed in and Hallam won a corner after the visitors put it out. The ball came back out from the cross and the ball was swung in from the right......Danny Campbell gets a head on it...... it bounces off the underside of crossbar bounces back up and goes in, Hallam 1-0!!!.

 

Selby managed to get the ball and No 2 hit a 25 yard drive which ended up nearer the corner flag than the goal. Some clever play by Hallam had there opponents at 6's and 7's eventually the ball was cleared up field. Straight from it Selby immediately went down the slope Adam Wash got the ball and slotted in from 18 yards 1-1. Selby turned the game around and 40 yard shot almost went in just creeping past the post. Then a moment of hesitant defending Hallam were playing nice football up the right then one player stopped for 2-3 seconds and then No 8 ran in  to curl in a superb shot from 18 yards 2-1 Selby Town.  Selby had yet another close effort No 2 thunderbolt a shot from 45 yards to go just over Danny Spooner’s goal. Louis Axcell won the ball on the right wing before smashing in a cross which almost went over the keeper! He did the same 3 minutes later but this time the keeper pushed the ball up into the air before he caught the ball under pressure

The game was back in Hallam’s favour .The hosts were impressing the crowd catching out the visitors on many occasions. A long through ball came to a Hallam attacker in the box who turned then passed back to Anthony Wilson......he hammers it...... straight into the far corner from 25 yards leaving Selby's keeper absolutely no chance Hallam 2-2 Selby Town!!! On 28 Louis Axcell did it again and almost scoring with a driving cross in from 25 yards.....ooh! He hits the bar then the post and bounces out to safety. It all went on in the 37th minute....Selby's defence was questionable when a goalmouth scramble took place, at least 6 shots were blocked and the ball was eventually smashed out of the box. Danny Spooner made an incredible save after Adam Wash hit a super shot from the left wing causing Spooner to tip over.

 

 Half Time at Sandygate – Hallam 2-2 Selby Town

At half-time there was a massive downpour lasting 10 minutes thus making the pitch waterlogged. 8 minutes into the second half an amazing 25 yard shot by the home side came back off the bar and Selby cleared. Selby started to take over and dominate and started to string some passes together but Hallam made it difficult for Selby to get into the box. Hallam did get a chance with a left footed free kick from 25 yards which the keeper. The pitch made play difficult but both teams controlled the ball well and used it to there advantage when they had it. Anthony Wilson hammered a shot over the bar from 20 yards out with his right foot.  Chances were limited but a player from the visitors left fly from 35+ yards with a right footed screamer which luckily bounced out to safety.

 

The conditions helped neither team but when either team had the ball they seem to make good use of it playing good football and knocked the ball around nicely. The last 10 minutes were slow and went on. There were obvious signs of tiredness and the game went a bit tedious. The pitch infront of the dug-outs was bad and both teams struck the ball over the midfield as the clock ticked on. Both teams had a chance which they made good use of. On 82 Danny Spooner kept Selby out when he palmed wide after a shot from 25 yards. Hallam's Anthony Wilson ran 15-20 yards without any tackles in on him and passed well to Ian Askey but he was offside.

 

 

Full Time at Sandygate – Hallam FC 2-2 Selby Town

 

Verdict: Both teams enjoyed a spell of possession and had there chances. However the conditions made it difficult to play football. When Hallam play down the slope they needed to carry on running with the ball when they had the room because the early passing was picked up on by the opponents

 

My man of the match: Anthony Wilson’s strength proved a thorn in the away sides defence which caused a constant threat. He helped build moves and created chances. His goal was excellent and is a definite prospect for the future

 

Hallam vs Sutton Town

Hallam were playing up the slope and Sutton kicked off in this NCEL Premier encounter

Hallam started off the brightest playing good football up the right wing. The game went quiet for a period and both teams defended well keeping out their opponents.Hallam always had the edge and Louis Axcell played well down the right with Ryan Campbell but  crosses the Hallam had always went either too far or Sutton easily cleared. The left wing was used by Hallam and some good crosses were put through the box and at times Sutton looked shaky. The ball was often headed into the air aimlessly by both teams trying to defend, Hallam looked nervous in defence at times.

Sutton did get forward at times with there No 10 causing problems down Hallam's left side. On 19 Sutton won a corner after a deflected shot which flew over. Sutton piled on pressure and Hallam couldnt take it hoofing the ball aimlessly making hardwork for themselves. Hallam had more possession and accurate tackling in the midfield gave them an advantage. The one thing Hallam always do is win free kicks on halfway - today was no exception putting Sutton under pressure from crosses. On 34 Hallam played a long ball through the middle and No 11 got it 20 yards out, then shot into the bottom left corner.....he scores, 1-0 Hallam!!! The lead looked intact till half-time, the defence of Hallam was dodgy but Sutton never posed a real threat.

With a few minutes left No 8 of Sutton hit a shot from 30+ yards and Spooner collected the bobbling ball.

Half-Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-0 Sutton Town

Danny Spooner made an outstanding save 2 minutes into the second half, a Sutton player came one on one with him and hit a shot from 15 yards in which Spooner stood up well and got his body to it. Then the game went quiet and Sutton decided to get forward playing well, putting Hallam's defence under a lot of pressure. A cycle occured continously; Sutton put the ball up the right wing, it was cleared long back down and Sutton won a throw in. Hallam were hitting the ball down the left side madly and Sutton were struggling to get the ball out at times

Subsitution for Sutton; 15 on 9 off

No 2 of Sutton ran in from the wing and clattered Hallam's No 5.  The game got very repetitive as Sutton frustrated a defence which just clobbered the ball forward.

Subsitution for Sutton; 14 on 10 off

Sutton had a chance  No 7 got the ball 25 yards out and he hit a superb volley into the top left hand corner, a goal you had to admire.Hallam decided at last to push forward and penetrate the Sutton defence nevertheless Sutton always found a way to get the ball out playing some excellent counter attacking football....... which never caused Spooner any problems in goal. Hallam played down the left wing and surprisingly passed the ball well around suddenly in the 83rd Danny Campbell hit a great shot just over the bar. The last 5 minutes was quiet and neither team looked like winning the game.

Full Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-1 Sutton Town

Verdict: Sutton made it difficult for Hallam and looked well organised but saying that Hallam played well and tried to breakdown the Sutton defence. Hallam need to man mark not mark space, this meant Sutton got in behind Hallam's defence. If they'd closed the midfeld down Hallam would have won.

Good Luck against Selby Town lads and to our opponents who played well

Under 19's League Cup --- Hallam vs Sheffield

Hallam played up the slope as Sheffield kicked off in this eagerly anticipated game at Sandygate.

Sheffield kicked off and immediately Hallam won the ball playing down the right with Danny Cooper combining well with Ashley Longstaff and Anthony Wilson. The passing was good and Ash had a chance when Ants dribbled through the defence and found Longstaff who was offside. It was followed by a string of good passing and for a time Sheffield came out of there den and breached the Hallam defence. The only hope for them was using the right wing where No 10 posed a considerable threat for periods of the half.

Crosses in by Hallam resulted in scrappy play on the edge of the box with a barrage of shots which were continuously blocked. The game when quiet for 5-10 minutes but started up again. On 25 David Knaggs hit a superb 25 yard free kick which went just over the top right corner. Soon after the a cross from the right deceived everyone and Sheffield half-cleared where Ashley Longstaff struck an 18 yarder into the bottom corner to send Hallam into a deserved lead,1-0 Hallam. Hallam carried on pressurising a resistant defence. Ben Furniss made the game look over as he struck a replica of the first goal from the same place to carry Hallam into a 2-0 lead. At the other end Sheffield almost scored as a rocket fast run by the right winger results in him shooting into the side - netting. Then Sheffield when up and scored! Number 10 scored a brilliant goal as he amazingly dribbled through Hallam's half then chipped the ball over James Swale from 20 yards, Hallam 2-1 Sheffield. Within 4 minutes a long throw caused the opponents defence havoc and Anthony Wilson got a head to it but the keeper caught it.......... unbelievably the ball dropped in! Hallam 3-1 Sheffield!!!   

Hallam almost made it 4-1!! A corner came in and 11 got a flick on it which the keeper held onto this time

Half Time - Hallam 3-1 Sheffield

Hallam started the second half the way they started the first - brilliant! Sheffield struggled to cope with Anthony Wilson's strength and physical presence. Free kicks were coming thick and fast. The biggest let-off of the game came on 48 as No 9 ran riot through the defence of Hallam and rounded Swale before striking an accurate yet powerless shot one Hallam   player got back and slid the ball away to the right, Wilson latched onto a ball from No 4 and the keeper parried his shot. On 61 Hallam were under a spell of pressure then No 5 struck a thunderbolt from 30+ yards into the top left hand corner Hallam 3-2 Sheffield!! Within 2 minutes the two goal cushion was restored, as a corner was put in and Mason slide the ball home Hallam 4-2 Sheffield

Hallam were resigned to long range shots and the game gradually started to slip away from Sheffield. Yet this did not deter the opposition from going forward and an absolute screamer from 25+ yards hit the underside of the crossbar and bounced in the 6 yard box for Swale to collect. Suddenly at the bottom of the slope Danny Cooper ran in and smacked a right footer off the inside of the post and away to towards the main stand. Swale's  goalkick  fell to  Ryan Campbell who passed to 15 whose 40 yarder went to the corner flag where the keeper walked across to and got the ball back up field.

In the last 5 minutes Hallam knew they'd won and just camped themselves in the opponents half. On 87 minutes Danny Cooper made it 5 when he ran into the box and scored from 15 yards, Hallam 5-2 Sheffield !!! It was a minute later that the game turned into a thrilling rout!! Ashley Longstaff  ran with the ball for 30 yards through a non - existent defence with cries of "Shoot Ashley!" coming from the crowd he walked the ball to about 9 yards out before slotting in!! Hallam 6-2 Sheffield, Game Over!!

In stoppage time a player from each side was sent off from an incident I didnt see!

Full Time at Sandygate - Hallam 6-2 Sheffield

Verdict: A great game, with some stunning goals. Hallam deserved the victory with long spells of possession particularly in the first half. Fair play to Sheffield though who played well in periods but struggled to get passed the Hallam defence

 

 

Hallam vs Maltby Main 

With Hallam playing up the slope and Maltby down  

Hallam started off the brightest pushing in on goal and constantly penetrating the Maltby defence. Paul Wood's persistency made Hallam's right wing working well with Louis Axcell. Passing was poor by Hallam at times and allowed Maltby to clear out and regroup. Maltby's only hope was just "hoofing" the ball into Hallam's half and sometimes got a touch to the ball. When this happened Hallam's strong defence made it difficult to get in Hallam's box. On 10 minutes Hallam's persistance payed off when they won a free kick on halfway which was smacked towards the right wing and headed in by Ian Askey at the far post from 6 yards out right of centre - to the keeper's left. Hallam 1-0 Maltby Main!!

Maltby finally got into Hallam's half and almost scored when No 8 dribbled down the right side and cut inside before unleashing a curling shot from 18 yards just over.The game turned quiet and Maltby started to attack but never really got anywhere.

On 28 the Maltby's number 5 went down and the game was stopped for 2 minutes while the physio treated him. In this time number 10 hobbled off to be replaced by Ryan Campbell. A few minutes later Maltby were on the attack again winning a corner which was woeful taken quick and Hallam shoved the ball up the line for a throw in. 6 minutes later number 8 of Maltby was deservedly sent off for Foul and Abusive Language for which he'd done earlier in the half. He stood on the pitch shaking his head in disbelief before eventually been told to leave the pitch.Maltby got another chance No 10 got the better of the Hallam's defence and hit the side netting with a poor shot. 4 minutes of stoppage time were given for which Hallam withstood an attack from Maltby and in the last minute of it Ian Askey was sent off for supposedly Swearing. He left the pitch throwing his shirt into the ground and kicking the dugout in frustration.

Half Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-0 Maltby Main

Hallam started the second half the way the started the first. With some lovely work down the right wing by Martin Murray, No 8 fired over from 18 yards. Then all of a sudden the game went to sleep with some scrappy work in the midfield turned the game's lights off.Louis Axcell hit a shot over the bar from about 30 yards. On 54 No 8 won a free kick for Hallam and Danny Campbell setup Ryan Campbell who hit a shot at the keeper. Maltby looked dangerous on the break and really penetrated the Hallam defence putting in some decent crosses. A controversial yet debatable decision by the linesman not give Maltby offside and the Maltby No 12 chipped Danny Spooner superbly from 15 yards to make it Hallam 1-1 Maltby Main.

As the game went Maltby's way and the first half dominance counted for nothing in way as The Miner's piled on pressure continously.61 in and Paul Wood smacked a cross in, unluckily nobody bothered to get near the ball and The Miners allowed it to slowly trickle out of a goal kick. On 66 No 10 of Maltby got behind the defence and hit a bobbling shot at the keeper.

Subsitution: Maltby 10 off 14 On ------------------ Hallam 4 off 13 On

Maltby had a chance to take the lead when No 12 sliced a right foot into the side netting.Maltby had yet another chance on 82 minutes when No 9 dribbled with the ball and hit a left footed curling shot just wide.Poor defending by Hallam and poor shooting combined for a dullish yet entertaining last 5 minutes. 14 of Maltby hit a shot out of the ground which seemed a waste a play as he could have done better. The last few minutes were very tense and Hallam could have nicked it from Maltby's grasp if Ryan Campbell had down better with a shot. The last action was a free kick from Hallam but that was that.

Full Time at Sandygate - Hallam FC 1-1 Maltby Main

Verdict:  Both teams should have taken there chances and the keepers were on top form to be fair the goals weren't savable especially Maltby's fine goal. Hallam were dominate in the first half and Maltby the second.

4 matches unbeaten is good and there will be tough test at Sutton Town next saturday.

Hallam vs Glapwell

I got to the game 1 minute to kick-off and it was down to business. Hallam playing down the slope towards Ranmoor and Glapwell play up towards the sheltered end.

Just 2 minutes in Hallam won the ball in midfield and No 10 for Hallam curled in a beautiful shot from 18 yards to put Hallam ahead 1-0 Hallam!! Hallam almost double their lead after some dodgy work by both teams ends up in shot put just wide after 4 minutes.No 8 comes forward for Glapwell and hammers a shot  which hits the netting behind Spooner's goal. Glapwell grab the ball and a exquisite left foot shot hits the bar and headed out the ground. Hallam win a free kick about 40 yards out after a bad tackle by No 4 of Glapwell on No 9 which has be retaken by No 3 which leads to Glapwell eventually winning the ball. Glapwell still have the ball but its stuffed out by the Hallam defence. Goal some slack defending by Hallam leads to the right back putting in a decent cross and No 6 of Glapwell scores the most simple goal he'll every score 1-1!!

The game is stopped after 28 minutes after an injury to No 9 of Hallam. Just minutes later on Hallam's left wing No 7 is taken down by a Glapwell player, No 3 hits a curling free - kick  towards the backpost.......just glanced wide by No 10!! Some brilliant passing by No's 5, 9, 11 of Hallam but a Glapwell player kicks the ball away off Troy Bennett.

Half Time at Sandygate - Hallam 1-1 Glapwell

Hallam pile on the pressure as The Well's management team scream out instructions to an uncertain Well defence. Hallam saw Glapwell hoofing clearances everywhere but the Countrymen's poor attacking threat contributed to a scrappy nevertheless vital part of the the game. Glapwell didnt get out of there own half for 15 minutes.Then at terrible bit of defending by Hallam nearly ended up in scoring an own goal. No 10 took a delightful corner and No 9 almost scored with a header which just went wide.Louis Axcell went closest to scoring after 60 minutes he ran well down left but then hit a weak shot straight at the keeper. More scrappy moves were followed by a goal.

Hallam scored on 66 after a free kick was given but Glapwell protested as the referee gave a controversial corner in which the Glapwell defence went furious from this the ball hit the head of a Hallam player and went straight past Glapwell's keeper 2-1 Hallam!! From there on Glapwell put on pressure constantly and Hallam never really looked like scoring after the goal.Glapwell had around 5 corners and were camped inside Hallam's half for the last 15 minutes. Hallam looked dodgy at the back and for a minute I was worrying whether we were going to survive.

On 80 minute Glapwell scored a deserved equaliser after No 14 worked well down the left wing and forced Spooner into a save. From this a corner was won and No 4 scored with a header 2-2!! With 3 minutes left the Glapwell bench were on the edge of there seats and thought they'd scored. With time running out Glapwell piled on more pressure. In the last minute of stoppage time a penalty appeal was turned down for Hallam when a Glapwell player appeared to bring down a Hallam player 

Full Time at Sandygate - Hallam 2-2 Glapwell- Att 71

Verdict: Both teams failed to take there chances and in the end a draw was a fair result after poor defending by both teams almost let there opponents win it. In my first Hallam FC game I'd give it 7/10 overall

Saturday Home Games: The report should be in by 9:00pm

Saturday Away Games: The report should be in by 10:00pm

Midweek Games: The report should be in 24 hours after the game has finished

 

 

Please note due to technical errors and server errors the report can be late; Problems often plague the site to if I go over the deadline this is why