Hempnall FC

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Trying to take nothing away from St Andrews who worked hard and fully deserved their victory, it is my belief, no correction it is a fact, our unavailability problems finally caught up with us.

We had no fewer than 9 options taken away from us, with Ben Player (Wedding), Liam Smith (work), Paul Franklin (suspended), Greg Devlin (injured), Sam Page (County duty), Dan Cook (County duty), Tom Halliwell (injured), Marty Addison (injured) and Kristian Jones (injured).

This, and a disastrous first half, where despite all the pre match instructions, we failed to respond to the 3 key messages of work rate, discipline to the shape and constructive leadership, all contributing to our downfall.

We had started brightly, creating a few chances, the best a 1 on 1 between ‘mates’ Willimott and Beetenson which the home keeper came out on top of.

After this, we totally lost our way, and the home side punished us with 2 good finishes after we had defended poorly to contribute to the openings.

St Andrews definitely deserved their half time lead, their work rate, movement and all round desire being greater.

A half time ‘roasting’ and some reinforced directives ensued.

The second half turned out to be a much different affair, with us pushing on at every opportunity, putting great pressure on the home goal, and it was only a matter of time before we scored.

Iain Mills thought he had, but his effort was harshly ruled out for hand ball.

Then a much improved performance from our man of the match Rob Browne led to a penalty which he coolly dispatched.

The game then see sawed from one end to the other with opportunities to score, both keepers making some good saves, with Beetenson in particular looking inspired to keep his side in front.

Leathers and Bloomfield were introduced, and a shift to a 3-4-3 formation as we pushed for an equaliser, half chances came but the goal eluded us.

In the last minute with gaps appearing as we pushed on, we were finally killed off when an unlucky Ben Nichols ‘going too quick’ (his words not mine!) allowed a ball to squirm under his foot through to an unmarked striker to gleefully tap home.

Definitely a case of what might have been had we found the second goal, but at this level, the reminder was given that you cannot give any side a 2 goal start and expect to get anything out of it.

Obviously a disappointing result on Saturday but I must say I had my spirits lifted in many ways this week re non match events.

On Tuesday they were lifted when almost 30 players turned up for training on a cold damp night.

It was good to see some new boys Liam & Ryan plus all those players who have been out injured for a while getting back to training i.e. the likes of Dan Cook, Greg Devlin, Tom Halliwell etc.

I feel for the players with injuries, there is nothing worse for a sportsman, it can be a very frustrating and lonely road to recovery. As much as you try and others try to include you, it doesn’t quite feel that you are quite part of things if not playing.

But, I can assure all that you are very much part of this club, you may just have to be a little bit patient for a little longer with your recovery, having got this far.

It was good again to see 2 of our boys involved with the County, this time Sam Page (who scored) and new boy Dan Cook, well done boys with your 5-0 victory.

On Monday the final tweaks were made to the superb new website. It’s an absolutely cracking job done by Ian Shurmer (with some help or possibly hindrance from Dad, only kidding old mate!). If there is one better (website that is not dad) I haven’t seen it, thanks guys.

BP has also worked hard to sort the procedure for ordering more kit, please contact him, your manager or see the website for further details. Thanks BP.

On Wednesday, I met with Nick, JP & Chris Austin (yes the Ex Long Stratton chairman, don’t hold it against us!!) to lay the foundations for the Club Reunion (30^th January).

This is going to be a great night but there is a mammoth amount of work to be done.

If you feel you can assist, there are 4 main areas; Ticket sales / Invitations (Nick), Raffle sales/prizes (JP), Bar (Stewie V) & Food (Victoria!). Please contact the relevant person and make your self known; I am sure they will be grateful for the help. Thanks to you guys and a special mention for JP, who in a short period of time has contributed much to this club and with it earned a great deal of respect, Top Man.

The Xmas do (Sat 19 December – Unthank Pub) is now all sorted, see your team Rep/ manager for tickets. Again it should be a great night if all support it.

Finally, let me congratulate Ross, Dave & the boys in the Reserves who are on a great run of form (I hope this isn’t the kiss of death), last week they had a great 5-0 win against a side in their own division to progress to the 4th round of the County Cup. Does Carrow Road beckon? I hope so.