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Manager - Julie Reeves

Coach - Ady Jones

Match Reports 

Littleover Dazzlers 2 - Belper Town GS 2 - Sunday 25th April 2010

The Team 

With Alfie Richford having picked up an injury midweek the squad was down to a bare 7 and Belper were forced to travel to 3^rd placed Littleover Dazzlers without a substitute for today’s fixture.  The team was further hampered by news that Callum Burton was nursing a foot injury and Patrick Binnion was down with flu like symptoms.  

Luke Bradbury (Capt) continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.   

The Game

With both sides looking to secure second place it seemed that both sides approached the opening minutes in the same way, looking for the crucial first goal to stamp their authority on the fixture. 

The first real chance fell to Belper on four minutes when a cross field ball from Binnion found Bennett on the left - Bennett pushed the ball through for Annable and the strikers powerful shot beat the keeper only to thud against the crossbar and out for a goal kick.

The game was end to end and Dazzlers almost opened the scoring when after good passing football they created a shooting opportunity.  Dazzler’s no6 hit a powerful shot destined for the bottom corner but Bradbury was equal to the effort and turned it round for a corner.

2 minutes later Dazzlers were at it again, pushing forward and winning a succession of throw ins and corners that were all dealt with by the commanding presence of Ravenshad who won every header to clear the danger.  Bradbury, Burton & Ravenshad were looking organized at the back and giving an impressive display.

Belper then started putting Dazzlers under intense pressure and took the lead on 15 minutes.  Good work from Binnion found Hughes on the right, Hughes cut inside and shot across goal which the keeper could only palm out to the waiting Annable to make it 1 – 0 Belper.  It was Annable`s 24^th goal of the season.

Dazzlers got themselves in behind Belpers defence on 18 minutes but Bradbury saved well at the second attempt.  There were shouts that the ball had crossed the line but Berty calmly informed the referee that it hadn’t and for some reason the Dazzlers coaching staff decided to not query the decision too much.  It didn’t cross the line, our conscience is clear. 

With 1 minute of the first half left Belper cleared the ball out for a throw in which Dazzlers took quickly and delivered into the box like a Rory Delap style missile.  The ball fell to a Dazzlers striker who finished with ease to take the scoreline to 1 – 1 and the match into halftime.

Half Time

Rafa gathered the players on the pitch and encouraged them to keep it going.  “More of the same, this is superb” she said.

2^nd Half

Both teams were up for this, which was clear again from the way the second period started.  End to end stuff, just as the first half.

Dazzlers finally broke through on 30 minutes when they broke through the middle of the pitch and reached the edge of the box before slipping the ball to their striker to finish from close range.  2 -1 Dazzlers.

Belper needed something out of this game to keep themselves in the hunt for the runners up spot and the goal signaled a reshape of the midfield.  Binnion was starting to flag in the middle so Belpers coaching staff moved Hughes to the centre and Binnion out to the left.

Belper almost drew level on 35 minutes when they won a free kick 25 yards from goal.  Burton hit a thunderbolt free kick which was somehow pushed wide of the goal by the keeper’s legs.  It was a hell of an effort which deserved more than a corner.

Belper drove forward again, looking for that elusive equalizer, with Hughes forcing his way into the box.  Hughes forced his way past two defenders before being seemingly pushed from behind.  Belpers fans cried for a penalty but the referee pointed firmly for a corner.

With 2 minutes of the game left Bennett delivered another inch perfect corner, Annable tried a sumptuous back heel which nearly came off and Dazzlers cleared to the halfway line.  Burton smashed the ball back into Dazzlers box and into the feat of Hughes, Hughes set up Binnion and Binnion thumped a right foot effort into the bottom corner to square the game at 2 – 2.

Both sides had chances in the final minutes to snatch the game but a draw was a fair result and hopefully a result that will earn the players another trophy each at the end of another successful campaign. 

The final whistle 

The game ended at 2-2 and although the point didn’t make runners up spot a mathematical certainty, this was a very good point.  

The MOM trophy was a close call this week.  Ravenshad was commanding and powerful in defence and won a considerable amount of defensive headers from corners and long throws.  If it wasn’t for a magnificent performance in goal form Bradbury, Ravenshad would have got this one. 

Bradbury pulled off some great first half saves but the most encouraging side of his game was his positioning.  He controlled his box.  Well done Luke.

Belper Town GS 1 – Spondon Dynamo WS 2 - Sunday 18th April 2010

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Alfie Richford (Capt) formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Ronnie Ravenshad was today’s substitute. 

The Game

With Belper aiming to secure second place and Spondon looking to secure a top four finish both sides were apprehensive at the start of this group four encounter.

The first real chance fell to Belper on five minutes when a superb cross field ball from Burton found the unmarked Hughes - only for Hughes shot to be turned around the post by Dynamos keeper.

Both sides started to impose themselves on the game and Belper almost opened the scoring when a cross shot from Bennett just eluded the outstretched foot of Annable and the ball went out of play for a goal kick.

60 seconds later a Spondon player found himself free just outside Belpers box and unleashed a stinging drive which Bradbury did well to turn over the bar for a Spondon corner.

From the resultant corner Richford attacked the ball and did extremely well to clear his lines under intense Spondon pressure.

Spondon got themselves in behind Belpers defence on 15 minutes but the cutback was cleared well at the near post by Binnion.

Bennett found himself free on the right just two minutes later and delivered a beautiful cross which was just too deep for the arriving Annable.

With 2 minutes of the first half left a Belper clearance fell to the feet of a Spondon midfielder 18 yards from goal who tried his luck from distance.  It was an unstoppable effort which flew past Bradbury’s extended arm into the roof of the net.  1-0 Spondon.

As half-time approached Belper won a corner which Bennett delivered.  Burton rose above Spondons defence but the powerful header flashed past the upright for a goal kick. 

Half Time 

Rafa gathered the players and urged them to go on and win the game.  “Keep doing what you’re doing, it will come.” She said.

Rafa decided to withdraw leading scorer Annable and bring on Ravenshad to play as the lone striker for the second period.

2^nd Half 

Belper came flying out the traps for the second half and within three minutes of the restart Burton almost headed Belper level but for a diving save from Spondons no1.

Binnion then tried his luck from distance but his effort cannoned off a Spondon defender and out for a corner.  Binnion then went close again from the corner, heading wide from 8 yards out.

Belper finally broke through on 35 minutes when Hughes received the ball on the edge of the box and planted a firm right foot shot into the top corner for his seventeenth goal of the season. The midfielder has been in impressive form over recent weeks, full of running and getting more than his fair share of goals from midfield.  1-1, Belper were back in the game.

With Belper needing the 3 points from today’s fixture Rafa replaced Richford with Annable, changing the shape of the side by replacing a defender with an attacker and leaving Burton as the lone defender for the final few minutes of the game.  It was a bold move from Belpers boss but a win was required, not a draw.

Belper almost took the lead on 39 minutes when Ravenshads curling shot looked destined for the top corner, but Spondons keeper again pulled off a stunning stop, touching the ball over the bar.

With the game in the final minute and Belper pushing forward time and again, Spondon broke away and won a corner.  Belper did well to clear the ball from the penalty box but a Spondon midfielder stepped up to thump home from 16 yards, despite the best efforts of the impressive Bradbury.  2-1 Spondon. 

The final whistle 

The goal proved to be the last telling kick of the game and the referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Belper Town GS 1 – Spondon Dynamo WS 2.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Alfie Richford for a solid all round performance.  Well done Alfie.

Ashbourne Aztecs 2  – Belper Town GS 1 - Sunday 11^th April 2010

Belper travelled to league leaders Ashbourne today knowing that an away win would put Ashbourne under increased pressure at the top of the table. 

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes (Capt), Patrick Binnion and Alfie Richford made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Ashley Bennett was today’s substitute. 

Kick Off 

Belper kicked off and attacked down the right flank before winning a corner off the outstretched leg of Ashbournes no4.  The resulting corner from Hughes cleared all before Binnion turned the ball back into the box creating a chance for Annable which the keeper did well to hold. 

It was clear from the first few minutes that Ashbournes league position flattered them, “Nothing to fear here” was being muttered around the Belper terraces.  Belper played good football throughout the first period, were strong all over the pitch and were certainly the better footballing side. 

It was also clear to see how Ashbourne had won every league fixture so far this season, they are a strong side that play a style of football not too different from the Wimbledon side of the eighties, quality up front but the ball gets there perhaps a little too quickly.  It is a style of football that will win football matched at this age.   

For all Belpers footballing supremacy they couldn’t make the breakthrough and the game entered half time goalless. 

Half Time – Ashbourne Aztecs 0 - Belper Town GS 0 

Still no tea or coffee!! 

Is it really too much to ask?  

2^nd Half 

Belper started the second half with the same urgency they had approached the first.  Bradbury was vocal and commanding, Burton & Ravenshad cancelled out any threat from Ashbournes potent strike force, Binnion, Hughes & Bennett set about winning the midfield battle and Annable lead the line as well as you would expect from a man with 23 goals to his name for the season.  Unfortunately for Belper Richford picked up a knock on the stroke of half time and could not continue.  Richford’s first half performance had been excellent. 

It was going to take either a piece of brilliance or a total fluke to break the deadlock in this game and almost inevitably it was the latter and in favour of the League Champions in waiting.  Burton did extremely well to catch Ashbournes Centre Forward and produce a superb last ditch slide tackle.  Unfortunately for Burton & Belper the clearance crashed straight into an oncoming Ashbourne player and deflected like a rocket into Belpers net.  1-0 to Ashbourne. 

To Belpers credit they continued to play football and had the majority of possession until Ashbourne doubled the advantage.  A defensive mix up lead to a corner for Ashbourne and the resulting delivery was swept home by Ashbournes no23.  2-0 Ashbourne.  

Belper pushed forward time and again before Ravenshad picked up the ball 20 yards from goal.  Ravenshad moved the ball onto his right foot and struck a sweet shot into the top left corner of Ashbournes net.  2-1 Ashbourne. 

Belper came close to getting an equaliser through efforts from Binnion, Hughes & Annable but with the luck of Champions Ashbourne held on to seal the 3 points and moved closer to clinching the league title. 

The final whistle 

Ashbourne Aztecs 2 – Belper Town GS 1 

The MOM trophy was awarded to Ronnie Ravenshad for a superb defensive performance, capped off with a great goal.  Well done Ronnie.

Belper Town GS 1 – Castle Donington Jets 0 - Saturday 10^th April 2010

The Team 

Luke Bradbury (Capt) continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Alfie Richford was today’s substitute. 

The Game 

Belper kept themselves on course for silverware with a 1-0 league victory against Castle Donington Jets at The Racecourse this morning.

Midfielder Jordan Hughes pounced in the 39th minute to put Belper in front and ensured they remain in the hunt to become one of the few teams to win the Derby Mini Soccer League title at both Under 9 & Under 10 level. 

It was Hughes’s 16^th goal of the season but until he struck with typically clinical efficiency, the League Title holders had laboured against a side they hammered 3-1 earlier in the season.

Rafa`s side looked lethargic and out of sorts in a largely forgettable opening half.  Other than looking secure at the back through the commanding shouts of keeper Bradbury and the positional sense of Burton and Ravenshad there was little for Belper fans to shout about.

Castle Donington, still looking for the points to steer them clear of relegation, settled well and proved to be difficult to breakdown.

But Belper had their isolated moments.  Annable sent an angled drive just wide from 20 yards in the 5th minute, Bennett forced a good save in the 9^th minute and Binnion threaded two or three defence splitting balls into the path of Bennett & Hughes who both came close with their respective efforts on goal.

Castle Donington had a determination about their game and, although they rarely threatened to attack, they possessed a defensive strength worthy of a higher league standing.

In the 28th minute, Castle Donington were thankful for this superb defending as Richford’s cross provided Binnion with an opening.  Binnion felt he was held back as he shot over the bar but the referee saw no offence and gave nothing more than a goal kick.

Belper attacked through the lively Hughes who forced Donington`s goalkeeper into a fine save at his near post after a poor defensive header fell to the Belper midfielder.

Belper striker Jordan Annable, who had been marshalled superbly for much of the game, hit the post from a cross by Bennett in the 35th minute.  It was a fine turn and shot by Annable but his effort bounced off the post to safety.

Ravenshad sent a fine long range effort just wide of the target in the 36th minute and moments later Burton just failed to score with another superb long range effort.

Bennett made way for Ravenshad, who had been previously withdrawn and replaced by Richford, in the 37th minute and two minutes later the substitute played a part in Belpers winner.

Ravenshad found Burton with a short pass and Burton cleverly moved the ball quickly to the feet of Hughes.  Hughes carried the ball half the length of the pitch, gliding past Donington`s midfield and defence before coolly slotting home.  1-0 Belper. 

The final whistle 

The goal proved to be the last telling kick of the game and the referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Belper Town GS 1 – Castle Donington Jets 0.  

The MOM trophy was awarded to Jordan Hughes for a magnificent all round performance.  Well done Jordan. 

Club Request 

We are still looking for a photographer and a tea lady.

Duffield Dynamos Eagles 3  – Belper Town GS 2 - Sunday 28th March 2010

Belper travelled to close neighbours Duffield today for the last in a succession of away fixtures.  Having secured victory in every away fixture so far this season, Belper were looking to maintain their impressive recent form and keep their 100% away day points tally in tact. 

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Alfie Richford formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett (Capt) made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Ronnie Ravenshad was today’s substitute. 

Loyal Belper fans will remember the nicknames from last season’s championship winning campaign but for the casual match report reader our hero’s nicknames are listed below…

Luke Bradbury – The Cat

Callum Burton – The Man Mountain

Ronnie Ravenshad – The Rock

Ashley Bennett – The Dragon

Patrick Binnion – The Boss

Alfie Richford – The Model

Jordan Hughes – The Pro

Jordan Annable – The Bull

Model professionals, every one of them. 

Kick Off 

With a strong wind behind them, Belper kicked off and attacked down the right flank before Duffield intercepted and cleared the ball into the stands.  Duffield soon took a hold of the game, being first to the ball on most occasions and winning almost every high ball.  With 10 minutes on the clock Duffield took the lead, breaking through from midfield and sliding the ball past the advancing Bradbury.  1-0 Duffield and thoroughly deserved. 

Belpers management team made a couple of changes to try and make a difference, switching the wide men and bringing Ravenshad on at Centre Half.  These changes did ensure the scoreline remained at 1-0 until half time but in all fairness Duffield deserved their half time advantage.  

Half Time – Duffield Dynamos 1 - Belper Town GS 0 

Now I know what your thinking, did he or didn’t he.  Did Belpers fans get a nice drink of coffee or did Mr Carl Bennett completely ignore his responsibilities yet again and leave the fans parched.   

What do you think? 

Thankfully Mr Rocky Ravenshad, Landlord of the White House Public House in Ambergate, took it upon himself to ask the female and elderly followers, perished by the northerly winds, if any of them would like a hot drink. 

Shame on you Tevez!! 

2^nd Half 

Duffield started the 2^nd half much as they had completed the 1^st, being first to the ball in midfield and picking up most of the second balls as well and within minutes their lead had doubled.  Belper conceded a corner and from the resulting in swinging dead ball Duffields no8 rose unchallenged to power home a close range header.  2-0 Duffield. 

The goal seamed to kick start Belper, that or the crass behaviour of Duffields manager.  Twice in recent weeks I have witnessed managers let a ball fly past them off the pitch in order to waste time and twice I have felt the need to pass comment.  Not good. 

Belper threw the kitchen sink at Duffield for the next 10 minutes and after good work from Hughes, Bennett struck to reduce the deficit.  2-1 Duffield. 

Belper came forward again and again and finally broke through Duffields resilient defence but the ball was half cleared.  The danger seemed to of passed but Annable picked the ball up and finished from the most acute of angle.  2-2, we were back in it. 

The game flowed from end to end and both sides came close to grabbing a winner before a long wind assisted Duffield goal kick bounced horribly on the edge of Belpers box.  Bradbury did very well to get a hand on it but the loop evaded Belpers no1 and Duffield regained the lead.  3-2 Duffield.

The final whistle 

The goal proved to be the last telling kick of the game and the referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Duffield Dynamos Eagles 3 - Belper Town GS 2.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Luke Bradbury for keeping the team in the game with a string of first half saves and ensuring the match remained a contest until the final whistle.  Well done Luke.

West Hallam 0  – Belper Town GS 5 - Sunday 21st March 2010 

Belper travelled to close neighbours West Hallam today, looking to pick up where they left off yesterday and secure another 3 points in their push to retain the league title.  Over recent years West Hallam have always been stern opponents and the corresponding fixture earlier this season has proven to be one of the harder victories for Belper in this impressive season to date. 

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad (Capt) formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  The reliable Alfie Richford was today’s substitute. 

Kick Off 

West Hallam kicked off, playing towards the Chaddesden housing estate and quickly won a corner off the outstretched leg of Ravenshad.  As with yesterdays fixture Belper quickly got into stride and took a deserved lead through a long range free kick from Callum Burton, 1–0 Belper.  Within minutes Belper had doubled the lead, this time it was Annable who smashed home from close range following good work from Binnion & Ravenshad, 2–0 Belper. 

Due to good handling from Bradbury, solid and sensible defending from Burton & Ravenshad and the protective shield provided by holding midfielder Binnion, West Hallam hadn’t looked like scoring during the first half of this league encounter.  That was until the 20^th minute of the half when the ball fell to Josh Woods of West Hallam.  Woods smashed the ball from just outside the box just as the referee blew the half time whistle and the ball looked destined for the top corner of Belpers net.  Fortunately for Belper, and the referee, the ball took a coat of paint off the upright and sailed past without troubling Belpers No1. 

Half Time – West Hallam 0 - Belper Town GS 2 

Rafa, back from her scouting trip of Manchester, pulled the troops together and gave yet another simple team talk.  What any manager says in these circumstances is beyond me, but I’m guessing she had one eye on the goal difference and another on making sure the team kept the points safe.  That’s why she’s the gaffer. 

2^nd Half 

Belper soon made their intentions clear by increasing the lead to 3-0.  A long throw from Richford was flicked on by Bennett before a miscued clearance from West Hallam’s no4 looped over his own goal keeper and into the net.  3-0 Belper. 

With the game now being played almost entirely in West Hallam’s half of the pitch, another goal always looked possible and it eventually came from the penalty spot.  Bennett floated over a beautiful corner which forced a West Hallam defender to handle in the box.  Annable stepped up to coolly slot home the penalty into the bottom corner and make the score 4–0 Belper.  He never looked like missing.  

“Another goal now and we will be level on goal difference with Ashbourne” said Carlos Tevez.  Tevez does have the knack of always knowing exactly how the league stands; his attention to detail on these matters is very good.  Bloody shame he didn’t pay as much attention to his tea making duties as today’s fixture was yet again decidedly dry!    

We all pull our weight Tevez, make the tea next week or you will be issued a touchline ban from Mrs Rafa Benitez. 

Belper did get the 5^th goal so sought after by Tevez.  A cross from the right was met with a firm header by Binnion to wrap the game up at 5–0 Belper. 

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading West Hallam 0 - Belper Town GS 5.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Luke Bradbury for another clean sheet, good handling and commanding his box better than he has all season.  Well done Luke.

Redwood Rockets 1  – Belper Town GS 7 - Saturday 20^th March 2010 

With a full compliment of players available for selection, Belper travelled to Redwood Rockets today looking to increase their recent run of away day victories.  With Redwood having been narrowly beaten, 5-4, by league leaders Ashbourne Aztecs, today’s result was by no means a formality.  

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion (Capt) and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  The dependable Alfie Richford was today’s substitute. 

Kick Off 

Redwood started the game in an impressive fashion, forcing Belper back almost immediately.  The first two minutes of the half were played almost entirely in Belpers half of the pitch and it took a fine save from Bradbury to prevent Redwood taking a deserved lead. 

That was as good as it got for Redwood, Belper kicked into gear and hammered their hosts with pass & move football that created 3 goals for Hughes & 2 for Annable before the referee prevented any further damage to Redwood s goal difference by blowing the whistle for half time. 

Half Time – Redwood Rockets 0 - Belper Town GS 5 

With Rafa away on a scouting mission in Manchester, Andy & Steve gave the half time team talk and said ………………………………………….. 

Well it is none of your business is it really, just enjoy the football and if your reading this Tevez make sure you bring the coffee flasks to all remaining fixtures because today’s fixture was extremely dry. 

2^nd Half 

With Belpers loyal supporters talking of a goal feast the teams took to the field of play and Belper pushed forward looking to increase their first half lead and reduce the goal difference supremacy currently held by league leaders Ashbourne.  Redwood had different ideas.  Within minutes Redwood pulled a goal back and quickly attacked Belpers goal again but this time shot just wide. 

As with the first half, Redwood quickly faded and Belper took back control of the game.  Binnion scored to reinstate the 5 goal advantage and then Annable scored again to complete his hatrick and take the score to 7-1 to Belper.

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Redwood Rockets 1 - Belper Town GS 7.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Jordan Hughes for a magnificent hatrick and giving 100% commitment to the team once again.  Andy Richford gave Jordan the award and confirmed the thoughts of all Belper fans when he pointed out that Jordan’s performances have been better than ever over recent weeks.  Well done Jordan.    

Castle Donington 1  – Belper Town GS 3 - Sunday 14^th March 2010 

Belper travelled to Castle Donington today for the second of five consecutive away fixtures.  With Bennett missing training all week due to an injury picked up in last weeks game at Ilkeston, Binnion missing training on Friday due to a virus and Burton struggling with an injured ankle, Reeves had some thinking to do before selecting the team for this important under 10 group 4 fixture.  

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Alfie Richford & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  The injured Callum Burton was today’s substitute.  

Kick Off 

Belpers walking wounded were slow out of the blocks and quickly fell a goal behind.  Castle Donington swooped past Belpers midfield & defence before producing an inch perfect cross for their skipper to slot the ball into the bottom corner of Bradbury’s net.  1-0 Castle Donington, and with less than 2 minutes on the clock. 

Belper puffed and panted for much of the first half and certainly stopped Castle Donington from taking a firm grip on the game but never really started to play the kind of football that we have become accustomed to over recent weeks.  The wind swirled over the pitch as the half time whistle loomed and Belper looked certain to enter half time with a 1 goal deficit.  That was until Annable & Hughes combined to grab an equaliser in the nick of time.  Annable`s shot hit Hughes before flying past the hapless Castle Donington keeper.  1-1. 

Half Time – Castle Donington 1 - Belper Town GS 1 

Rafa, Steve & Andy had their work cut out with this one.  The game was at a critical stage, the wrong advice; tactics or substitution could of not only cost the game but could also have thrown away any chance of retaining the league title.  Having introduced Burton during the first half, Rafa decided against any further changes.  

2^nd Half 

The commitment of the Belper team was there for all to see, Burton, Ravenshad & Richford were adamant that conceding another goal was not going to happen, Hughes, Binnion & Bennett were working up and down and Annable looked quicker and  more available than ever as the loan striker.  The points were there for the taking but Castle Donington and the strong wind were proving difficult opponents to break down.  In fact Castle Donington could quite easily of taken the lead again but for the heroic efforts of Belpers number 1, Luke Bradbury.  With the Castle Donington number 9 bearing down on goal Bradbury came out bravely to smother the shot and save the day.  Unfortunately for the team, Bradbury was forced to leave the field of play with an injured finger. 

Reeves decided to put Ravenshad in goal and shuffle the midfield pack, moving Binnion to the middle & Hughes to the left.  Almost immediately Belper looked more in control, a better shape one might say, and instantly took the lead.  Play was broken down before Hughes picked up the ball on the halfway line; Hughes drove forward and smashed a 20 yard effort into the roof of the net.  It was a great goal, 2-1 to Belper.  

Straight from the kick off Belper won the ball back again and with an almost carbon copy approach Annable unleashed a 20 yard screamer past the Castle Donington keeper.  3-1 to Belper. 

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Castle Donington 1 - Belper Town GS 3.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Jordan Annable for leading the line so well throughout this difficult fixture.  Annable looked quicker today, was always available to receive the ball and showed the strength to hold and shield the ball under extreme pressure.  Well done Jordan.

Positions vacant for 2009/10 season (internal applicants only) 

Closing date for applications will be 19^th March 2010

Stanton Ilkeston 0  – Belper Town GS 1 - Sunday 7^th March 2010 

Belper travelled to mid table Stanton Ilkeston today, looking to continue the recent run of good form that has seen them move to within 3 points of league leaders Ashbourne Aztecs.  With a goal difference of 0 and 4 league victories to date, Rafa was well aware of the threat posed by today’s hosts. 

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Alfie Richford was today’s substitute.  

Kick Off 

With a succession of over enthusiastic challenges Ilkeston soon stamped their mark on this fixture and turned the game into a physical encounter not for the faint hearted.  To be fair to the Ilkeston coaching staff their tactics did ensure the result remained open until the final whistle but it must be said that this kind of football is not what you would expect from an under 10 junior football team. 

Pass the ball, pass the ball 

Cries of “pass, pass, pass” came from Rafa as she gesticulated towards the pitch, “move the ball, move the ball” she continued.  There is a well rounded fountain of footballing knowledge inside that beautiful brunet covered cranium, of that there is absolutely no doubt.  Unfortunately there are games where the spoilers win through, this was one of them. 

Back to the game 

With 19 minutes on the clock Belper lost winger Ashley Bennett.  Bennett cut inside his marker only to be crudely chopped down by Ilkeston’s left back, a tackle that forced Bennett to be withdrawn from action and prompted Rafa to send on the dependable Richford from the bench.  Burton took the resulting free kick which eluded all defenders before being finished at the far post by Binnion, 1 – 0 Belper.  Within seconds of the re start the referee blew for half time. 

Half Time – Stanton Ilkeston 0 - Belper Town GS 1 

Rafa, Andy & Steve pulled the team together and delivered the half time team talk.  “Be strong” said Rafa, “don’t be put off, keep trying to play the game the right way, the referee has the game in hand.”  All encouraging statements, unfortunately not all true. 

2^nd Half 

Although the scoreline was only 1 – 0 the team didn’t look like conceding and the points looked safe throughout.  The back 3 of Bradbury, Burton & Ravenshad looked strong, the midfield of Hughes, Bennett, Richford & Binnion were as tenacious as ever and Annable always pops up with a goal.  What Belper really needed was a second goal, a cushion, and that second goal looked as though it was going to come from the penalty spot.  With only the keeper to beat and Hughes about to pull the trigger Hughes was cynically tripped from behind.  “PENALTY” roared the Belper faithful, but for reasons only known to the referee the kick wasn’t given and play was coolly waved on.   

All 8 Belper players gave there all for the remaining minutes of the half and Binnions 19^th minute goal proved to be the deciding factor of the game.  

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Stanton Ilkeston 0 - Belper Town GS 1.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Callum Burton for a commanding and physical performance.  In these kinds of games you need your hard men to be hard and Burton was certainly that.

 Sorry about the photo, sack the photographer.

Belper Town GS 3 – Melbourne Utd BS 0 - Sunday 14^th February 2010

Belper entertained struggling Melbourne United BS today looking for their first double of the season having beaten Melbourne 2-1 in the corresponding fixture.  The narrow score line which secured the 3 points at Melbourne, coupled with Melbourne`s narrow defeat last week to league leaders Ashbourne, left Belpers management team in no doubt that today’s fixture was a real potential banana skin.   

The Team 

Luke Bradbury (Capt) continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Having recovered from a recent illness, Alfie Richford was today’s substitute.  

The Kick Off 

Having not played a competitive game since mid December the result was always going to be more important than the performance.  Well that was the mindset of most Belper fans before the 12.30 kick off but it certainly wasn’t after the first few minutes of this one sided fixture.  Belper played beautiful football from the off, pass and move football, quick moving football, early, early, early came the cries from Rafa as the team moved the ball quicker than ever they have before.  The only thing that was missing from this almost perfect return to league action was a finishing touch, it didn’t seem to matter how many chances Belper created, the ball just wouldn’t go in.  That was until Jordan Hughes crossed from the right for Jordan Annable to break the deadlock with 17 minutes on the clock.  17 minutes of total Belper pressure.  1-0 Belper. 

Sexy Football 

The scoreline didn’t seem so important anymore; Belpers performance in this first period had been extremely impressive.  Burton & Ravenshad displayed an understanding of marking and positional awareness far beyond the date identified on their birth certificates, Binnion, Hughes & Bennett moved the ball so quickly in midfield and with intelligence to match, as did Richford after replacing Bennett midway through the half, and Annable was always going to score, he just has that priceless ability to put the ball in the net.  Add to this that Belper can always rely on their No1, Luke Bradbury, and things were looking good.

Half Time – Belper Town GS 1 – Melbourne Utd BS 0 

Rafa, Andy, Steve & Ady pulled the team together and delivered the half time team talk.  They could have had a chat about the weather, girls at school, the Bulls latest squeeze, the contents of this weeks Nuts magazine; for all I know they may have discussed all these subjects and many more but there was absolutely no need to talk about football, that first half display had done the talking and more.  

2^nd Half 

The second half started just as the first had finished, Belpers passing football being too quick for Melbourne to contain.  Within minutes Belper had doubled the lead and again Hughes was in the thick of the action.  Hughes picked the ball up just outside the box and drove forward at the Melbourne defence, jinking in and out of challenges, before calmly slotting the ball home into the bottom left corner of the net.  It was a finish of the highest order and the run just oozed class.  2-0 Belper. 

Who’s that with the metal detector? 

Well it was getting a little too serious to be honest, that and the fact that this match reporter is on his 2^nd bottle of hand picked grapes. 

Rafa had been taken totally by surprise pre kick off as the tightest man in the Amber Valley produced a crisp £20.00 note and handed it to the boss without care.  Has he won the pools? Came one quip, lottery result was it Tevez? voiced another.  Whatever the reason for this financial U turn it certainly took Rafa by surprise, so much so that she aimed a swift right foot towards the crotch of the great Argentinean.  Too be fair to Rafa it was a sweet volley and it would have connected if it wasn’t for the inches of comfort that surround the South Americans waistline. 

Oh yes, the metal detector.  Well he had to get his £20.00 back somehow didn’t he?  No change, he’s still a tight gitt.  

Back to the game 

With Tevez frantically looking for loose change the players were looking for a third goal to seal the 3 points to keep the pressure on league leaders Ashbourne.  Rafa made a change moving Richford to centre half for Ravenshad.  The Rock had given a solid display at the back and deserved his breather.  Belper pushed forward and were awarded a series of corners which all came close before Bennett broke down the right and crossed for Annable to calmly slot home his second of the game and put the game, as a contest, to bed.

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Belper Town GS 3 – Melbourne Utd BS 0.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Patrick Binnion for doing what all good midfielders do, keeping it simple and passing it short to keep the team moving.  Well done Paddy.

Belper Town GS 1 – West Hallam 0 - Sunday 13^th December 2009

Belper entertained mid table West Hallam Juniors today, a side that has always provided stiff opposition over the last few years.  To make the fixture all the more difficult Belper were again without star player Jordan Hughes, couldn’t call on Ben Chapman-Lilley and not for the first time this season were forced to take to the field with a bare seven.  In stark contrast West Hallam arrived at the Racecourse with a squad of 11 climbing off the team bus.

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad (Capt) formed the defensive pairing, Alfie Richford, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.   

The Kick Off 

There was something missing today, a spark, the bit between the teeth, the desire, call it whatever you like Belper were just not at the races throughout the entire first half.  West Hallam attacked Belpers goal time and time again and only a string of top drawer saves from Bradbury ensured the fixture remained a contest as the game finally reached half time. 

To be fair the Belper faithful were treated to a couple of exquisite pieces of action.  The first being beautiful ball control from Annable.  With the ball dropping out of the Chaddesden sky Annable reached out his right leg and controlled the ball with apparent ease.  His touch was so good that you could hear the voice of a pensioner shouting “He’s got glue on his ruddy boots”  

The second was a nice piece of wing trickery from Bennett which resulted with a sensational cross into the West Hallam box.  

As the referee blew his whistle for half time Belper new they were very fortunate to still be in this game and new they had their goalkeeper to thank for it. 

Half Time – Belper Town GS 0 – West Hallam 0 

Rafa and Andy pulled the team together and delivered the half time team talk.  Whatever they said – it worked.  

2^nd Half 

Belper came out a different side and attacked West Hallam straight away.  Binnion started to win the ball in midfield, Richford was pushing forward well on the left, Annable was holding the ball up, Bennett started to get around the West Hallam full back, Burton looked unbeatable for pace and positional awareness and Ravenshad was somehow Belpers destroyer and talisman rolled into one. 

The breakthrough 

With 25 minutes on the clock the ball was pushed out to Bennett on the right, Bennett pushed the ball forward and unleashed a ferocious right foot rocket which flew past West Hallam’s keeper into the top corner of the net.  It was a finish of the highest order, hit with precise accuracy and with venomous power.  1-0 Belper.  

Who’s that in the dark glasses? 

“What is that beautiful sound?” asked an elderly lady on the touchline.  It sounds like a Nightingale! She exclaimed.  “It’s the Orb, he’s singing Crying!” came one reply.  Those of us who know this man well were well aware that it was Tevez sporting another cunning disguise.  Having gone on record to state that he believes he has a better voice than Roy Orbison and questioned the number of octaves that Mr Orbison actually sings in, Tevez was out to prove a point.

Back to the game 

From being on the rack in the first half Belper now looked in commanding control.  Annable went close from close range, Ravenshad was winning the ball and prompting most moves and the team looked strong again as a unit.   

Belper played out the remaining minutes with relative ease, West Hallam hadn’t troubled the Belper goal throughout the second period and the majority of the football had been played in West Hallam’s half of the pitch.  This really had been a classic example of a game of two halves.  

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Belper Town GS 1 – West Hallam 0.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Luke Bradbury for the first half saves that saved Belpers bacon.  Well done Luke.

Belper Town GS 5 – Stanton Ilkeston 1 - Sunday 29th November 2009

A first half Annable brace followed by a second half hatrick from Hughes settled today’s clash and ensured Belper maintained their standing at the top of the Derby Mini Soccer League, Under 10, Division 4 table. 

The Team 

Luke Bradbury (Capt) continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Alfie Richford, Patrick Binnion and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Jordan Hughes started as substitute.  In keeping with recent match reports, Jordan was certainly unlucky to find himself pulling on the substitute’s jersey. 

The Kick Off 

Ilkeston started well, showing the determination that has served them well throughout the opening weeks of this campaign and earnt them a very creditable mid table slot this season but Belpers supremacy was there for all to see.  Time and time again Belper pushed forward, earning a succession of corners before eventually breaking the deadlock.  The ball found its way to Annable who took 4 or 5 touches before unleashing a low right foot shot past the hapless Ilkeston no1, 1-0 Belper with ten minutes on the clock.  Within 3 minutes Belper doubled their lead and again it was that man Annable who supplied a sublime finish following good work from Richford, 2-0 Belper.  Belper came close through Binnion & Bennett before Ilkeston grabbed a lifeline just before half time.  With the whistle making its way towards the referees lips Ilkeston’s no7 unleashed a thunder bolt strike from 20 yards that screamed into the top corner of Bradbury’s net.  2-1 Belper. 

Half Time – Belper Town GS 2 – Stanton Ilkeston 1 

Belper decided to withdraw the impressive Annable and introduce their star man Jordan Hughes.  Belpers management team had taken a gamble in starting the Bull as the striker had struggled all week with a groin injury.  The gamble had paid off.  

2^nd Half 

Hughes imposed himself on the game within minutes as he helped himself to Belpers 3^rd goal of the game on 24 minutes and subsequently calmed the nerves of the home crowd.  3-1 Belper. 

Belpers skipper, Bradbury, was barking orders and commanding his box well, Ravenshad was strong & steady and Burton was as quick as ever.  Business as usual from the back 3.  It was a sprint back and clearance from Burton that had me thinking back to Des Walker. “You’ll never beat Des Walker” the Trent End used to sing, well you’ll never beat Cal Burton in this form let me tell you. 

Who’s that on the touchline? 

I think we all know by now that we are often blessed with the presence of Mr Carlos Tevez, but I do believe that we underestimate the effort that the man puts in Sunday after Sunday in order to go unnoticed by his adoring fans.  Resembling something somewhere between Bubbles Devere from Little Britain and Kim Woodburn from I’m a celebrity, Carlos eased himself out of a Ford KA and wobbled over towards the touchline without attracting a single glance of attention, unbelievable! 

With his hair trimmed, round red face and swollen waistline, it’s hard to accept that this is the same man who terrorises the finest defences in the premiership. 

Back to the game 

With the points looking safe Belper pushed forward looking for goals to increase the goal difference supremacy that the Champions currently hold over 2^nd placed Ashbourne Aztecs.  Hughes scored again to make the score 4-1 before rounding off a fine second half hatrick with the move of the game.  Ravenshad played the ball out of defence to Bennett wide on the left; Bennett played a square ball to Hughes who played a lovely one-two with Binnion before finishing at the second attempt.  Hughes deserved his hatrick, his response to being left on the bench and attitude once on the pitch was absolutely first class. 

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Belper Town GS 5 – Stanton Ilkeston 1.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Patrick Binnion for his solid performance in the centre of midfield.  Well done Paddy.

Spondon Dynamos WS 1 – Belper Town GS 3 - Sunday 15th November 2009

Belper moved to the top of the table today after a well deserved 3 – 1 victory at high flying Spondon Dynamos White Sox. 

Spondon had narrowly lost 1 -0 to last weeks league leaders Ashbourne Aztecs, a result that served a timely warning to Belpers management team of the threat posed by any Spondon side. 

Let us be quite clear here, this was a very good performance from Belper, a performance that deservedly moved them above Ashbourne Aztecs to the summit of the under 10 division 4 league. 

A Visit 

Without a game this week and with the knowledge that Belper Town were closing in on Ashbourne, Ashbournes manager decided to take a look at the competition and with note book in hand took his place in the stands alongside Belpers loyal supporters. 

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton (Capt) & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Alfie Richford, Jordan Hughes and Ashley Bennett made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Patrick Binnion started as substitute.  It was a strange decision to rest Binnion today, given his performances of recent weeks, but there are no weak links in this efficient squad and anybody left out can count themselves unlucky. 

The Kick Off 

Belper ripped into Spondon from the first minute, attack after attack rained in on the Spondon defence who appeared shell shocked after ten minutes of total pressure.  Belper were running at Spondon and cutting through with apparent ease but couldn’t find the final pass or finish to make the most of their possession supremacy.  Annable, Bennett & Hughes all came close to breaking the deadlock before Spondon managed to get into the game and move the midfield battle to Belpers half of the pitch.  Richford was tackling well in midfield and Ravenshad & Burton looked big, strong and above all impressive at the heart of Belpers defence.  I will say this about Ravenshad; today’s performance was probably the best performance we have seen from him in Belpers colours, he was awesome.  Alongside the Rock, Burton was also in a no nonsense mood and seems to have added an extra yard of pace to his game.  Burton has always had pace in his locker but he somehow looked quicker than ever today. 

When Spondon did get an effort in on the Belper goal, Bradbury’s positional awareness and handling served to mitigate the risk.  His clean handling was particularly nice to see as those safe hands ensured there would be no opportunity for the Spondon strikers who were prepared to follow in every long shot.  

Half Time – Spondon Dynamos WS 0 – Belper Town GS 0 

Belper decided to withdraw the impressive Ravenshad, move Richford to defence and introduce Binnion to the left side of midfield.  Again this was a difficult one to fathom as Ravenshad had imposed himself on the game very well during the first period of play.   

2^nd Half 

Belper started the second half as they had the first, pressing forward from the off in search of the 3 points that would see them move to the top of the league for the first time this season.  Within 5 minutes they took the lead, Richford took a short throw to the feet of Annable, Annable slipped the ball to Hughes who moved in field to smash home from within the penalty box to give Belper a deserved 1 – 0 lead.  As soon as Hughes turned in field onto his right foot there was only going to be one outcome, he gave the keeper no chance. 

Belper now looked like scoring every time they went forward and after a succession of corners Bennett delivered a beautiful corner aimed towards Binnion & Annable arriving at the back post, Binnion rose and planted a firm header which thudded back into play off the post only for Binnion to smash home the rebound from close range.  2-0 Belper.   

Belper pushed forward again almost immediately, looking now for goals to improve their goal difference but were caught out by a breakaway attack from Spondon.  A routine clearance found Belpers defence too far up field and created a 1 on 1 opportunity for Spondons Jack Hinks.  Bradbury was forced to leave his line in an attempt to close down Hinks but Spondons no9 made no mistake and produced a sensational chip that left Bradbury clutching at fresh air.  2-1 Belper, game on. 

As if to calm the nerves of Belpers following masses, Belper attacked from the resulting kick off and restored the two goal cushion that their performance clearly deserved.   A string of Belper passes eventually found the unmarked Bennett within Spondons box and Bennett calmly slotted home a side foot into the bottom corner of Spondons net.  He was so cool he seemed to pass the ball into the bottom corner.  

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Spondon Dynamos WS 1 - Belper Town GS 3.   

The MOM trophy was awarded to Luke Bradbury for his performance in goal.  Good handling, kicking & commanding shouts being the ingredients of this fine display.  Well done Luke.

Belper Town GS 5 – Redwood Rockets 0 - Sunday 8th November 2009

The squad returned to full strength today with the return of Ashley Bennett and Jordan Hughes, giving Shanks a welcome selection dilemma.   

Who’s Shanks? Well it’s quite obvious really but here goes.  Following weeks of under performance and the whole world knowing that Rafa Benitez is stupid enough to pin the title hopes of Merseyside on the fitness of two players, I have decided that our manager is far too tactically aware to be linked to the Spanish buffoon.  As such our glorious leader now goes by the name of Shanks.   

If any more explanation is required ladies I suggest you dust off the Mills & Boon and pass the match report to your other half. 

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Patrick Binnion, Jordan Hughes and Ashley Bennett (Capt) made up the midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  Alfie Richford started as substitute and can count himself very unlucky not to have started today following two very good back to back performances over the last couple of weeks. 

Shanks decided to shake up the midfield today, moving Binnion to the left and giving Hughes his first central midfield outing of the season. 

Kick Off 

Belper started the game well and pushed forward from the kick off and within 3 minutes they took a deserved lead.  Binnion took a throw from the left to the feat of Hughes; Hughes returned the ball to the thrower who crossed well with his left foot for Bennett to finish from close range.  Good start, 1-0 Belper. 

Binnion soon crossed again from the left, this time Annable shot wide.  It was looking like a walkover but Redwood are made of tough stuff and it took a commanding shout and collection from Belpers no1, Bradbury, to thwart a Redwood breakaway. 

With just 10 minutes on the clock Belper were dealt a cruel blow as Shanks was forced to withdraw the in form Burton from play.  The medical team had strapped up a recent ankle injury and had put Burton through intensive treatment prior to the game but unfortunately for the Nailers Burton just couldn’t play through the pain barrier anymore.  Richford was introduced to the centre of defence. 

It is testament to the squad that the change of personnel made little difference as Belper continued to win every loose ball.  Hughes ran down the left, taking on 4 players, before crossing for Annable to shoot home from 8 yards.  2-0 Belper and these were well worked goals, not kids stuff. 

Ravenshad stepped in to intercept a Redwood breakaway, reading the game very well as usual, before pushing the ball down the right for Bennett, Bennett won a corner but uncharacteristically the delivery was a little deep to threaten the opposition. 

Richford played a very confident ball across his own box to put Belper on the attack again, this time the chance fell to Hughes who shot wide. 

Half Time – Belper Town GS 2 – Redwood Rockets 0 

The size of Belpers squad gave Shanks little scope for change at half time.  We do need another member of the squad, Shanks is well aware of this, and it is a forward thinking player that Belper clearly need to add to the ranks. 

2^nd Half 

Straight from the kick off Belper attacked down the middle of the park before Hughes shot low into the corner of Redwoods net, giving the keeper no chance.  3-0 Belper. 

Ravenshad came across to intercept another Redwood breakaway before Richford cleared well.  Belper have good options at the back with Ravenshad, Burton & Richford, all quality players with good technical defensive tendencies. 

Ravenshad, Binnion & Annable all had snap shots before the ball deflected off a Redwood defender for a corner.  Bennett’s pin point deliveries had been causing problems for Redwood all game and this corner was of the highest calibre once again.  The dipping, swerving unbelievably accurate delivery caused so much confusion that Redwoods centre half was forced to put the ball into his own net.  4-0 Belper. 

Binnion broke down the left again and finished the run with a shot that went just wide before Belper won yet another corner.  Bennett delivered well again for Richford to rise and head just over.  It was the first of a succession of corners with Richford going close again with another header and Binnion & Annable both going close to increasing Belpers lead with close range shots. 

To Redwoods credit they kept going and launched an attack towards Belpers goal before Bradbury ran from his line to clear well from the advancing Rockets no9.  Redwood came forward again but this time their cross was met with a towering header from Ravenshad to clear the danger. 

Belper saved the best move until last as Hughes ran at pace down the left before passing cross field to Bennett, Bennett wasted no time at all picking out the unmarked Annable and Annable made no mistake from 9 yards to make the score 5-0  Belper and grab his 12^th goal of a very productive season to date. 

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Belper Town GS 5 – Redwood Rockets 0.   

Shanks awarded the MOM trophy to Ashley Bennett for a very good returning performance.  Well done Ashley. 

Melbourne Utd Black Sox 1 – Belper Town GS 2 - Sunday 1^st November 2009

With Ashley Bennett still unavailable for selection due to illness Belper new well in advance of today’s game that it would be a bare 7 that would take to the field to face Melbourne United.  What Rafa and the coaching staff didn’t expect and couldn’t legislate for was the late withdrawal of midfielder Jordan Hughes.  Jordan had been feeling unwell but was expected to start the game.  This was a massive blow for Belper, with the team reduced to playing the whole game without a full compliment of players; they certainly faced a test of courage.  

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Patrick Binnion & Alfie Richford made up the depleted midfield with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.   

Kick Off 

The wind swirled over the well watered Racecourse surface as Belper took the game to Melbourne from the 1^st minute, the numerical disadvantage didn’t seem to make much of a difference as the team kept shape and moved forward as a unit.  They looked compact in midfield, sharp up front and safe at the back.  The opening minutes could only be described as one way traffic as Belper pushed forward aiming to break the deadlock. 

Belper had gone close to breaking the deadlock on 3 occasions before a through ball from Richford found the unmarked Annable just inside Melbourne’s box.  Annable killed the ball dead before burying a low right foot drive into the bottom corner to give Belper a deserved first half lead. 

Melbourne started to get into the game but found the back three of Bradbury, Burton & Ravenshad a formidable pack and they was unable to really test Belpers settled back 3.  Binnion was snapping into tackles again, Richford was strong in midfield and Annable, up front on his own, was looking like the goal hungry striker that forced some of last seasons opponents to refer to our big front man as “The Animal”.   

Half Time – Melbourne United 0 – Belper Town GS 1

Rafa was pleased with how the boys had dealt with Melbourne having the extra man and demanded more of the same from her troops for the second period.  She new that the midfielders may tire towards the end of the game so encouraged the team to get an early goal to get the two goal cushion that she felt would be enough to secure all 3 points. 

2^nd Half 

Belper pushed forward straight from the whistle, winning a succession of 50/50 tackles and making their intention very clear.  The boys new the 3 points were there for the taking and new that an early second half goal would knock the stuffing out of this plucky Melbourne outfit. 

With only two minutes of second half action on the clock, Annable found himself one on one with Melbourne`s number 1 and made no mistake with his finish to double Belpers lead and push his personal goal tally into double figures.  2-0 Belper, number 10 of the season for Annable.  

Richford & Binnion both went close with long range efforts before the Bull smashed another long range shot from all of twenty yards.  This time the ball did beat the keeper but crashed against the bar and back into play. 

Burton & Ravenshad were in control at the back, so much so that you couldn’t see Belper conceding today.  “Keep the shape” shouted Rafa, “Keep it simple” she roared again as Belper played flowing football through the middle of the pitch.  To be honest the boys didn’t have much choice other than to play through the middle. 

With the points looking safe, Belpers tiring midfield got caught in possession just as Belpers back two had pushed out.  Within a blink of an eye the Melbourne midfielder played a killer ball up to Melbourne’s number 9.  With Bradbury forced to come out to narrow the angle the Melbourne striker calmly slid the ball sideways for an unmarked Melbourne player to tap home into an open net.  It was a sucker punch of a goal, one for Belpers defence and midfield to learn from. 

Belper played out the remaining minutes without any real threat of Melbourne scoring again but it was still a relief to hear the final whistle. 

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Melbourne United 1 - Belper Town GS 2.   

Rafa awarded the MOM trophy to Ronnie Ravenshad for his commanding performance at the heart of the Belper defence.  Well done Ronnie. 

Upcoming fixtures 

Belper entertain Redwood Rockets on Sunday 8^th November with Redwood currently sat in the relegation zone having not yet picked up a point. 

Belper Town GS 2  Littleover Dazzlers 1 - Sunday 25^th October 2009

At training on Friday night Benitez was confident of a near full squad for today’s game and was looking forward to a selection headache rather than patching up a bare 7 as she had to last week.  Not to be I’m afraid as news broke minutes before kick off relating to the unavailability of Belpers in form right winger, Ashley Bennett.  The club have not yet disclosed the reason for Bennett’s absence but released a statement to dispel recent transfer speculation. 

It must be said that Ashley’s father, Mr Carlos Tevez, was looking rather relaxed on Friday evening after a spending a day with his feet up rather than joining his colleagues at Royal Mail on the picket line.  Scab, Scab, Scab, shouted groups of Belper supporters as he arrived at the training ground on Friday evening.  That said the verbal assault did nothing other than make Tevez look even more radiant.  So much so that Susan flashed an embarrassed smile as Tevez finally strolled towards the training pitch.   

Who the heck is Susan 

Well, it seams that Craig Bradbury has taken a fancy to our swarthy Argentinean friend and has decided that the best way to get close to the hit man is to turn on the charm, change his name to Susan and throw himself head first into a sex change.  I’m sure all Belper fans will join me in wishing Susan all the best for a speedy recovery from her initial surgery and all the best for the remaining stages of the procedure.  I don’t mind admitting, Susan was looking hot this morning. 

The Team 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Ronnie Ravenshad formed the defensive pairing, Jordan Hughes, Patrick Binnion (Capt) & Alfie Richford made up the midfield threesome with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker. 

Kick Off 

Belper took the game to Littleover from the 1^st minute and did so with determination.  They looked compact in midfield, sharp up front and safe at the back.  The opening minutes could only be described as one way traffic as Belper pushed forward aiming to break the deadlock.

Hughes & Annable both went close for Belper before Littleover broke away towards Belpers goal.  As the ball came into Belpers box there didn’t seem to be much of a threat but as Ravenshad went to clear the ball the Littleover no9 charged down the clearance and the ball cannoned off the oncoming striker into the back of Bradbury’s net.  1-0 to Littleover and totally against the run of play. 

Littleover started to get into the game but found the back three of Bradbury, Burton & Ravenshad too strong a unit to penetrate.  Binnion was snapping into tackles, Richford was looking at ease on the left and Hughes was looking a threat on the right.  Annable, up front on his own, was holding the line well.   

Half Time – Belper Town GS 0 – Littleover Dazzlers 1 

More of the same said Rafa, far to experienced to believe the score line was anything other than unfortunate.  The goals will come lads she said in pigeon English. 

2^nd Half 

Belper pushed forward straight from the whistle, winning a succession of 50/50 tackles and making their intention very clear.  The boys new the 3 points were there for the taking. 

Belper attacked down the right with Ravenshad who played a neat ball inside to Hughes.  Hughes took a touch before hitting home from the edge of the box.  To be fair to Littleover`s keeper the shot did take a deflection on the way but it was always on target and very much Jordan’s goal.  1-1 game on. 

Richford & Binnion both went close with long range efforts before the Littleover keeper cleared long and high in the direction of the Bull.  Annable took the ball down and unleashed a venomous effort from distance that beat the keeper all ends up before flying narrowly over the crossbar. 

Burton & Ravenshad were in control at the back, were starting to move up with play, and were sending a message to the rest of the league – bring it on. 

Bradbury’s handling was looking far more accomplished in the second half and he was looking like the safe pair of hands that gained him such recognition last season.  Belpers coaching staff need to rethink this one, it is time between the posts that will develop this boy, time spent catching balls. 

With the points looking likely to be shared, Belpers fans were shouting at the officials for an indication of time left on the clock. “4 minutes” said Andy Richford, “I know that because I asked the referee 1 minute ago and he told me 5 minutes so it must be 4 minutes now” said Richford with pride.  Well done Andy, no wonder you are a business unit leader. 

Belper pushed forward again, under strict instruction from Benitez to press forward.  Bradbury played the ball out to Ravenshad, Ravenshad played the ball to Burton, Burton pushed the ball forward to Binnion, Binnion released the ball to Annable, Annable laid the ball out to Richford, Richford teed the ball up for Hughes and Hughes despatched the ball from just inside the box into the bottom corner of Littleover`s net, goal, goal, goal, what team work, what effort, 2 – 1 to Belper.  

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading Belper Town GS 2 Littleover Dazzlers 1.   

Rafa awarded the MOM trophy to Alfie Richford.  He certainly did a good job today on the left of midfield and gave an unselfish display full of hard work and industry.  Well done Alfie.

Sunday 18^th October 2009

AFC Red Star 3 – Belper Town GS 1 - League Cup

It was a depleted Belper that took to the field today for this first round under 10 League Cup game.  Jordan Hughes was absent on Chesterfield duty and the impressive new boy, Ben Chapman- Lilly, was not available due to Cricket commitments with Derbyshire.  With these two unavailable Belpers squad was reduced to a bare 7, no subs again. 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Alfie Richford formed the defensive pairing, Ashley Bennett, Patrick Binnion & Ronnie Ravenshad (Capt) made up the midfield threesome with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker. 

Kick Off 

Red Star started the stronger of the sides and dominated the first 3 minutes of the game before Belper got into their stride.  Belper then threatened to out football Red Star with a string of good passing that looked as though it was going to be the difference between the two sides.  To be honest throughout the first period Belper were the better footballing side but the pace and breakaway style approach of Red Star looked very threatening and somehow Belper seemed to be second to the ball on the majority of occasions.

After 11 minutes it was the clinical breakaway style of Red Star that broke the deadlock.  A long high clearance was chased by the two Red Star strikers heading towards Belpers goal, Bradbury advanced to the edge of his area to collect the ball and thwart the oncoming forwards but the ball bounced awkwardly and high over Belpers no 1 to present an easy tap in for Red Stars no 9.  1 – 0 to Red Star and despite Belpers efforts the score remained this way at half time. 

Half Time – AFC Red Star 1 – Belper Town GS 0 

Other than encourage there was little Rafa could do, the players needed to get closer when marking, needed to be alert to the loose ball and needed to get the bit between their teeth if Belper were going to get a replay out of this game, never mind win it.

2^nd Half 

Belper pushed forward straight from the whistle, winning a succession of free kicks and corners that were delivered like trained missiles from the right boot of Ashley Bennett.  If Belper were going to get back into this game, this was the best route as Red Star could not cope with these precise deliveries or Belpers aerial presence. 

Burton came close with a header and Binnion hit a shot wide, both results of dead ball situations, before Red Star broke again down the right flank.  This time Belper fouled the Red Star winger and gave away a free kick near the right touchline but in a very dangerous area should Red Star deliver a good cross.  This they did, even if their manager did come onto the pitch and place the ball nicely for the kick as if missing a bucket of sand or a tee.  The ball flew into the Belper box and dropped invitingly at the feat of a Red Star player who blasted the ball past Belpers no 1.  2 – 0 to Red Star.  

To Belpers credit they kept going and finally broke through a stubborn Red Star defence.  Again it was a Bennett cross that caused confusion in the Red Star box before Burton leapt onto the loose ball to smash home from 10 yards.  A fine finish. 

With 2 minutes to go Belper threw all they had at Red Star and took a gamble.  Unfortunately the gamble back fired and Red Star hit Belper on the counter attack before shooting home from the edge of the box, high into the roof of Bradbury’s net.  3 – 1 to AFC Red Star, Belpers cup dream was over. 

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading AFC Red Star 3 – Belper Town GS 1.  The players, management and crowd could not really argue with the result. 

Rafa awarded the MOM trophy to Patrick Binnion.  He did try but today was one to forget for all Belpers players

Sunday 11^th October 2009

Little Chester Centurions 0 – Belper Town GS 14

Belper made the short journey to bottom of the table Little Chester Centurions looking for the 3 points and much needed goal difference enhancement that would see them start to climb this Group 4 under 10 division. 

Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton & Alfie Richford (Capt) formed the defensive pairing, Ashley Bennett, Patrick Binnion & Ben Chapman-Lilley made up the midfield threesome with Jordan Annable playing as the loan striker.  The returning Ronnie Ravenshad started the game as substitute. 

Kick Off 

Less than a minute had passed before Belper took the lead and it was the in form Annable who made the breakthrough slotting home his 3^rd of the season.  It didn’t take too much longer for the goals to start flying in as Belper pushed forward time & time again.  Annable grabbed another two first half goals to complete his hatrick, Ben Chapman-Lilley helped himself to a brace and Patrick Binnion, Ashley Bennett & Ronnie Ravenshad all scored a goal a piece.  

Half Time – LCC 0 – Belper Town GS 8 

With the 3 points clearly safe and enough goals in the bag to make an impact on Belpers goal difference Reeves decided to give goalkeeper Bradbury a run out in the centre of midfield and put the impressive Binnion in goal for the second period of the game.  It was a very good first half performance from Belpers midfield general, a performance that saw him back to his best.  This half time decision also caused a small section of the crowd to call for a second perimeter spectator rope to be introduced for all Belper Town GS fixtures.  The first rope 1 metre back from the touchline, as per the Community Leagues current stipulation, for the majority of supporters to stand behind, the second being positioned some 25 metres away so the player’s mothers cannot be heard and can gossip to their hearts content well out of earshot.

2^nd Half 

Although Belpers shape was understandably knocked by the change in personnel it was still pretty much one way traffic throughout the second period and Bradbury certainly didn’t look out of place playing out field.  The score remained at 8-0 for some time before a sloppy back pass let in Annable for his 4^th of the game.  Then a long through ball from Belper put Annable one on one with the LCC keeper and Annable made it 10 – 0 to Belper with his 5^th of the game.   

Not to be out done, Chapman-Lilley made a run from outside the LCC box and slipped home his 3^rd goal of the match to complete his hatrick and make the score 11-0 in Belpers favour.  You just new it was coming, Belpers keeper was bound to score, he did and Bradbury scored his first of the season to bring the score to 12-0. 

It was a hungry Bull out there today and he wasn’t finished at 5, he wanted that double hatrick and he got it by slotting home his 6^th of the game – 13-0 to Belper. 

Now Callum Burton & Alfie Richford had both performed well and both deserved a goal.  Burton got his reward to make the score 14-0 but unfortunately for Richford he hit the woodwork twice and didn’t get the goal that his overall performance quite clearly deserved.

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle to bring the game to conclusion with the score line reading LCC 0 – Belper Town GS 14, a great result for the boys which saw the team rise to 6^th in the table with a goal difference of plus 17. 

Rafa awarded the Man of the Match trophy to Jordan Annable for his strong performance and 6 goals, a decision warmly greeted by Belpers travelling support.    

Belpers next fixture is a cup game away to AFC Red Star who are currently sat in 2^nd place in the under 10 group 5 league with 10 points from 5 fixtures and a goal difference of plus 9.  This fixture is arranged for Sunday 18^th October.

Sunday 4^th October 2009

Belper Town Gold Sox 5 Duffield Dynamos 0

Today’s visitors came to the Racecourse Ground on the back of a very creditable 5 – 2 defeat at the hands of the early pace setters Ashbourne Aztecs.  Add to this result a narrow 3 – 2 defeat to West Hallam and a home win against Stanton Ilkeston and it would be fair to say that Duffield have had a reasonable start to the season, loosing only to teams that have beaten ourselves over the years.  The Sky pundits were not looking much further than a draw, other than Paul Merson that is who backed Duffield to take the points from this mornings clash. 

Two blank Sundays had given the players an early season break and time to spend with their families.  The same cannot be said for manager Rafa Reeves.  Following Belpers opening day defeat to Ashbourne Aztecs the new manager’s credentials were questioned by a small section of the Belper crowd.  Not deterred Rafa stood up to the challenge, washed off the fake tan, and set about strengthening the squad by swooping for out of contract utility player Ben Chapman-Lilley.  It was a piece of managerial excellence, expertise that only the very best are blessed with and when you consider the financial restraints imposed on Reeves by the club, bringing a player of such quality to the club is nothing short of a miracle. 

Jordan Annable returned to the side to lead the attack, Luke Bradbury continued in goal, Callum Burton (Capt) & Alfie Richford formed the defensive pairing leaving Ashley Bennett, Patrick Binnion & Jordan Hughes as the midfield threesome.  Reeves left new signing Chapman-Lilley on the bench for his debut.

Kick Off 

Hold on, who’s that swarthy individual with the deep pockets over there on the touchline?  Its Tevez, I hope he’s got the rest of his subs with him, I couldn’t possibly watch again as he ducks, dives, swerves and avoids eye contact with the gaffer over a few quid.  Rafas not having it son, cough up!  No wonder Rafas forced to look in the bargain basement for new talent. 

Both sides started well with chances few and far between,  Duffield had come into this game with the intention of keeping Belper quite for the first 5 or 10 minutes before starting to play themselves.  Fat chance, the quality soon shone through and with only 8 minutes on the clock Annable struck to open the scoring.  It was a strikers finish, instinct, speed of mind and despatched with the ruthless streak common with most world class strikers.  Shots from Burton & Hughes had been blocked prior to the Bull pouncing for his first of the season.

Within minutes the advantage was doubled, again Belper broke down the right, Hughes shot was saved by Duffields no1 before Bennett pounced to side foot a beautiful shot into the roof of Duffields net. 

With the score at 2-0 Benitez decided to introduce new boy Chapman-Lilley as she withdrew the impressive Bennett.  Tevez looked on in disbelief; watch out Rafa he will be after a rebate.  It took all of 30 seconds for the fans to see just why Rafa had worked tirelessly to secure the services of Chapman-Lilley, positional awareness, speed of mind, the ability to release the ball at the right time, enough said, we have a footballer that will compliment the quality already in residence at Christchurch Meadow.  

It was a seamless introduction, the football continued to flow towards Duffields goal and another goal was looking likely.  Hughes picked up a loose ball on the edge of Duffields area before hitting a low drive, out of the reach of Duffields No1, into the bottom corner of the net.  Again Hughes was showing the determination and aggression that wins football matches, determination that has attracted the interest of more than one local professional outfit. 

Whilst Belpers front players were making the result a formality, Callum Burton & Alfie Richford were looking very safe at the back.  Not to be kept out of the picture, Burton strode forward to grab the forth goal for himself hitting a low drive into the bottom corner of the net.  The goal was just reward for a half of no nonsense defending from Belpers big centre half. 

Half Time 

Belper made a number of substitutions at half time and throughout the 2^nd period with players plying their trade in various positions throughout the game.  It must be said, they all took to the task well and gave proof to Rafas theory that her players need to play in different positions to improve their overall game. 

2^nd Half 

No Tevez, your not getting a quid back.  120k a week and still pleading poverty, unbelievable. 

With the 3 points now firmly in sight, Belper set out to improve their goal difference.  Unfortunately Duffield are made of stern stuff and continued to fight for every ball.  It was this never say die attitude that nearly saw the visitors grab a consolation goal.  The ball was pumped into Belpers box and bounced awkwardly in front of Bradbury.  To be fair Bradbury would normally of dealt with this routine long ball but this time he seemed to take his eye off the ball as it brushed his gloves and went over his head.  Goal! Thought all as Duffields No6 faced an open net with the ball at his mercy.  What the heck? How did he get back?  Somehow Bradbury managed to claw the ball back from the feet of the Duffield striker and to safety.  An unbelievable save of the highest order. 

Bradbury was looking as good as ever, Burton and Richford were commanding in defence, Bennett, Binnion, Hughes & Chapman-Lilly were bossing the midfield and Annable was looking strong leading the line. 

With 4-0 looking a likely final score Binnion broke through from midfield and played a one two with Annable only to be denied when shooting by a wonderful last ditch tackle from Duffields No4.  Then Richford played a beautifully balanced ball down the right flank, Bennett pulled the ball back and Annable shoulder barged his marker, took aim and fired to bag himself a brace on his return to first team action. 

The final whistle 

The referee blew his whistle for the last time and the game finished with a 5 – 0 score line in Belpers favour. 

Benitez awarded the MOM trophy to Callum Burton for a commanding and powerful performance, a decision shared by all.

Sunday 13th September 2009

Belper Town Gold Sox 1 Ashbourne Aztecs 3

Players in 0 Players out 0 – that is the sorry statistics from a pre season that has been very calm with very few rumours of transfer activity emerging from Christchurch Meadow.  Now it could be said that if it isn’t broke don’t try and fix it, it could also be argued that these boys are champions after all so why even look at the squad.  Valid points these certainly are, we have a good set of players in every department, players that are learning their trade with the help of excellent coaching from dedicated football people.  But, where is the depth, how do we cope with injuries, how do we rest a player who needs a break, how do we mix things up when our usual pass and move football isn’t breaking down the resilience of the opposition.  These are the questions, the concerns and the thoughts of every Belper supporter who made their way to the Racecourse to cheer on the boys in this Under 10 Group 4 curtain raiser. 

Belpers new manager Rafael Reeves had studied the league and the 10 opponents that Belper will face this season and today’s visitors, Ashbourne Aztecs, are certainly a team admired by Rafa, a team that will be up there challenging, a team that will be hard to beat. 

The inevitable pre match uncertainty was served up this week by Mr Carlos Tevez, as the Belper faithful and management team waited eagerly for word from Carlos on the availability of Ashley Bennett.  It is still a possibility that Ashley may sign for Chesterfield but for now at least he remains a Belper player.  It’s in the jeans you see, no not the 40” waste ones sported by Carlos earlier today.  As one admirer was heard to say “He’s a big boy that Tevez “ 

Rafa made one change to the side that had served Richford so well during the 08/09 season, selecting Ronnie Ravenshad up front in place of the absent Jordan Annable.  Luke Bradbury (Captain) continued in goal, Callum Burton & Alfie Richford in defence and Ashley Bennett, Patrick Binnion & Jordan Hughes made up the midfield threesome.  With Jordan Annable on annual leave Belper approached this curtain raiser without a single substitute.  In stark contrast Ashbourne lined up 4 substitutes as the first kick of the season drew closer and closer. 

The Big Kick Off 

Ashbourne kicked off towards the Prefab housing with a slight wind advantage.  Talking about wind there certainly was a lot of wind coming out the back end of Mr Craig Bradbury, that Elachi Indian Restaurant has allot to answer for.  Our thoughts are with his wife tonight. 

Belper started well with the defensive pairing of Richford & Burton marking and marshalling the Ashbourne strike force very well indeed.  For ten minutes there was little between the sides as Hughes ran at Ashbournes midfield & defence with menace, Bennett moved nicely up and down the right flank and Binnion was limiting Ashbournes creative play.  Ravenshad was holding the ball up well and looking a threat and Bradbury was well up for the job, showing good hands positional awareness. 

Chances were few and far between as both sides were showing just why they had such successful seasons last term but with that slight wind advantage Ashbourne started to push Belper further back than Rafa & Steve Hughes would ideally like to see.  This pressure paid off as an Ashbourne striker pounced in the box to put the visitors 1-0 up in the 10^th minute.  Not deterred Belper came firing back at Ashbourne, winning a succession of corners that were delivered well by Ashley Bennett, before finally breaking down the Aztecs.  With Belper attacking down the right flank, Ashbourne cleared their lines resulting in a throw in to Belper.  Bennett took the throw quickly and to the feet of Ravenshad, Ravenshad turned his man and delivered a beautiful low cross into the path of Hughes who wasted no time at all by calmly slotting an ice cool finish past Ashbournes no1.  The goal was a fitting reward for Hughes as his efforts during this first period were not going missed by the Belper crowd.  “He’s back to his best “ one supporter shouted. 

With the half time whistle making its way towards the referees lips Belper cleared a dangerous cross from the left.  Unfortunately for Belper the clearance found its way to the most powerful right foot on the pitch and the Ashbourne no7 blasted an 18 yard rocket into the top corner of Belpers net.  Bradbury didn’t stand a chance.  It must be said, Bradbury had started this season where he left off last term making a string of fine saves and diving bravely at feet on numerous occasions.   The whistle blew and Rafa gathered her troops on the pitch for the half time team talk. 

The 2^nd Half 

A point was always going to be a good result from this very tricky season opener and with that in mind Rafa urged the team to go out and win this game.  Belper continued with the 100% effort that had got them back into this game and pressed forward in search of an equaliser.  The back 3 of Bradbury, Burton & Richford was looking safe, the midfield of Bennett, Binnion & Hughes was working tirelessly and Ravenshad was looking a threat at set pieces.  Ashbourne made a string of changes, most notably removing their centre forward, no23, for the remainder of the game.  He was the danger man identified by Rafa and her coaching staff so it is testament to Burton & Richford that Ashbourne felt the need to replace their main threat, well done lads.  As with the first half, there was little in it between the two sides.  Belper looked most threatening when Hughes ran at the Ashbourne defence and Ashbourne always looked likely to threaten the Belper goal at any moment.  After 29 minutes Ashbourne increased their lead to 3 – 1 as they attacked down the left wing prior to slipping a lovely ball across the face of the Belper goal for an easy tap in.  As with the first two goals there was absolutely nothing Belpers no1 could have done to stop this one going in. 

Belper Pressure 

Belper threw all they had at Ashbourne for the last ten minutes winning a succession of corners.  It was from one of these corners that Belper came close to reducing the deficit and giving the game an interesting finish.  Bennett crossed from the left and Ravenshad rose to glance his header just wide of the far post.  The fans started to feel that the goal Belper badly needed to get back into this game was just not going to come.  They were right, the game ended 3 – 1 to Ashbourne. 

Pause For Thought 

For all those Belper fans that attended the first game of last season, a season that ended with the championship trophy heading for Christchurch Meadow - The score – Belper 1 – Bramcote Blues 2.   

Today’s result – No need for concern, this team have overcome opening day defeat before, and they will do it again.  

There were several plus points that came out of today’s game, Hughes looks back to his best in midfield, Bradbury looks as safe as ever in goal, Burton & Richford reduced one of the best strikers in the league to a handful of half chances, Bennett still has a beautiful right foot, Binnion kept the shape in midfield and Ravenshad gave the Benitez options with his unselfish work playing out of position as a lone striker.      

Looking Forward 

Belpers fixture list has thrown up two blank Sundays, giving the boys 3 weeks rest before the next league game against Duffield Dynamos on Sunday 4^th October.  3 weeks that will give Belpers scouting system time to find the additional striker that this team badly needs if it is going to achieve similar success to that enjoyed by all last term.  

Man of the Match 

Mrs Rafael Reeves announced Jordan Hughes as Man of the Match, he certainly deserved it although there was an excellent performance from Bradbury in goal and the rest of the lads all had good games.

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