Loughton Manor Football Club

Friday 11th May. Inter-Divisional Trophy. Lost 4-1 to Potterspury

We didn't really get going in this game and only had a brief period when we were on top.
Potterspury took the lead when the Potterspury right back Ian King ran into space and swung his right foot with the result of the ball in the top corner of the goal. Potterspury were stronger in the tackle missed countless half chances and produced some good saves from Ben. Loughton were starting to play a little better, just before the break without stretching Joe in the Potterspury goal.

Loughton did start the second half better and put Potterspury on the back foot. However it was a breakaway goal that got Loughton level. Russ chased down the right and his cross found Matt unmarked in the middle to head home.

Loughton were only briefly level when they were awarded and converted a penalty. That was a knock back that Loughton did not recover from. As the game opened up two further goals sealed the fate of the cup. Jake did manage to hit the post but tonight is was not to be. Potterspury were deserved winners. The Potterspury manager thought it was their best performance of the season.
They thought they needed one to beat Loughton but on the night Loughton put in one of their worst performances.

Loughton were: Ben, Colin (Alex), Adam, Jim, Luke, Sean (Ian), Mike, Jake (Jaz), Barry , Matt & Russ.

Wednesday 25th April. Home to MK Titans. Won 4-0 (ht 3-0)

MK Titans were all over Loughton for the first period of the game but still did not give the Loughton keeper too much to do. With virtually their first attack Luke, who was playing up front, was brought down like he has done to so many other over previous seasons, inside the areas. Matt was on hand to put away the penalty.
There was one good attempt at either end, Titans clipping the outside of the post. Then 2 goals from Barry in a short space of time gave Loughton the lead they needed. (Details anyone...)

Titans won a succession of corners putting Manor under pressure. A resolute defence held strong with Alex clearing off the line.
Other action included Matt on a run towards the Titan's goal was brought down at the second attempt in the area. The resultant penalty was tipped onto the post and then the keeper made another good save as Barry fired in the rebound.

Loughton were much better in the second half, but the goals didn't come until Sean powered the ball home at the second attempt from close range. A few changes to give players a rest and others to get a run out did not weaken the second half performance.

Loughton tonight were: Louis, Kenny, (Russ), Colin, Jim, Alex, Mike (Adam), Sean, Jake, Luke, Matt, Barry (Glenn).

Saturday 21st April. Home to Grendon Rangers. Won 3-2 (2-0)

For once the manager had the difficult decision of choosing from the 16 available players. For this reason he was very confident of getting a result against Grendon Rangers. The team know what they need to do and work very hard to achieve their goals.
The game started a bit scrappy but it was Loughton who broke the deadlock after 20 minutes. Barry brought the ball inside from the left and Sean was in the right place at the far post to fire home.
Within 5 minutes Loughton were 2-0 up. Mike held the ball up well in midfield and then threaded the ball through to Matt on the left hand side of the penalty area who put the defender under pressure. The ball came to leading goalscorer Russ who made no mistake.
Just before half time Barry had a goal disallowed when a through ball from Mike was crossed by Russ from the right, Matt, in an offside position, got a touch in the middle and Barry fired home.

In the second half, Loughton got their third when Matt closed down a defender, worked the ball wide on the right and got a cross in to meet the on rushing Russ who directed the ball past the keeper.

In the second half Loughton missed other good chances...but, to protect the guilty, we won't go into those here.

The truth is that you cannot relax against teams like Grendon Rangers. With eight minutes to go Loughton seemed to be on their way to the final. Sean was feeling the knocks from recent games and came off. We then missed one of our good chances and two goals in the last few minutes from Grendons Hankers and Perna made the last few minutes gripping.

Loughton today were: Ben, Colin, Adam, Jim, Luke, Sean (Shaun), Mike, Jake, Russ, Matt, Barry.

Tuesday 17th April. Away to Buckingham Town Res. Won 6-1 (ht 3-0)

A hat-trick from Barry, a pair from Matt and one from Russ before Buckingham Town scored the goal of the night gave Loughton victory tonight

Loughton were: Louis, Kenny (Shaun), Adam, Luke, Glenn, Colin, Mike, Jake, Barry (Ben), Matt, Russ.

Saturday 14th. Home to Brackley Sports. Won 3-2 (ht 2-1)
Brackley started the brighter and had more of the possession in the first 15 minutes, but Loughton took the lead when Adam put in a deep cross for Louis who brought the ball down with his first touch, his second took the ball away from the defender bundled through Louis. Matt took the resultant penalty. Louis (whose previous 3 games have been in goal) got the second when from a corner the ball came to him and he turned and hit a volley into the top of the net.
Brackley were soon back in the game when the Andy Prescott received the throw on the right, he turned in to the box and pulled the ball back for the captain, Matt Jenkins to fire home. Thereafter the half was quite even. The Brackley keeper took a blow to the head, but was ok to continue.

Today was a day when Loughton had to play a few players out of position. In the first half Adam had taken Jake's role, but although he played well, we needed to bolster the over run midfield. Matt dropped in and Adam started the second half up front. With in a few minutes , he chased a through ball down and with confusion in the Brackley ranks was able to put Loughton 3-1 up.

We nearly always have close games with Brackley and they were determined to get back in the game. For a lot of the second half it seemed like Loughton were having to defend more and more. and with 20 minutes to go the Andy Prescott picked up a ball on the right and fed it to Eric Carpenter who calmly slotted the ball home.
Sean replaced Shaun but he was replaced in the last few minutes when a clash of heads with the Brackley No 3 Dave Barnes, resulted in a long and deep gash above his eye.

Loughton continued to defend stoutly and were able to keep Brackley at bay. At the other end Loughton did have a few half chances but were unable to add to their tally.

Loughton today were: Ben, Kenny, Jim, Luke, Glenn, Shaun (Sean)(Jonathan), Mike, Adam, Barry, Matt, Louis.

For the Brackley players who took part in the scratch card but left before it was completed. The winning team was Luton. Jim our centre half was the winner.

Wednesday 4th April. Home to MK Wanderers. Won 2-1 (ht 0-0)

Goals from Matt and Luke in a closely contested game.
We had another strong starting 11 and a supporting bench for the first time in a couple of weeks.

MK Wanderers fresh from their Berks & Bucks Junior Cup win in Newbury had the better of the opening exchanges. Loughton rose to the challenge and kept MK Wanderers at bay. As the game progressed Loughton started to get into the game. Neither keeper was overly stretched.
Jaz pulled up with an injury just before the break. With no forwards on the bench, Kenny came on and we pushed Luke on as an emergency forward
The teams went in at half time without scoring. We knew he had the workrate and pace to cause problems. Kenny would keep the defence solid.

More opportinities came and went for both sides before Luke and Matt combined to put the latter through on goal. He duly obliged.
Barry, like the rest of the team, was working hard and was unlucky not to add to the goal tally. He had already called to be substituted, when he had an opportinity to be one on one with the keeper but his legs gave way and the opportunity was lost.
Shaun came on for his first game in a few weeks and although he started in midfield and we pushed Sean on, Mike made the call to bring Sean back into his midfield role.
Soon after Luke was on hand to score from close range when the ball came to him following a corner. Although the defender got a foot to the ball, he was unable to keep it out. Loughton were 2-0 up but could not be complacent. Luke was also struggling and Glenn was brought on, again out of position, to defend from the front.
MK Wanderers did get a few half chances and with 15 minutes to go, the got a goal back when they broke away and the ball was cracked home from the edge opf the area.
Loughton were please to hold on to their victory and pick up 3 more points.

Loughton tonight were; Ben, Alex, Adam, Jim, Luke (Glenn), Sean, Mike, Jake, Jaz (Kenny), Matt, Barry (Shaun).

Saturday 31st March. Away to Brackley Sports. Won 3-2 (ht 1-1)

Proof of what was said last week. "As long as Manor have 11 players available, we have a strong team".
Glenn got his first 90 minutes for the club, but had to play out of position. Cookie was back from university for a couple of weeks and made his second start. Louis made his debut in goal.

Brackley had the better of the opening exchanges, hit the post, and deservedly got the first goal 20(?) minutes in. Loughton failed to clear the ball that fell to Mounsden who thumped the ball home. Louis had no chance.

Jake got Loughton level when his thunderbolt free kick from at least 25 yards nestled into the corner of the goal. The keeper similarly had no chance.

Loughton were playing up hill the second half but were playing better. Barry whipped in a "dutty" corner for Matt at the back post to head home into the top corner.
At this stage Loughton looked comfortable, but Brackley kept going and a long cross from the right was headed back in for Mounsden to poke home.
Brackley continued to press but Loughton continued to make chances. The winner came when Mike with a delicate lob put in the on rushing Jake who calmly lobbed the keeper.
A satisfactory day for Loughton. Cookie, surprisingly lasted the full 90 minutes. We have found another choice for keeper. Only 5 different ones used this season and the effort put in by all was the real reason why we came away with only our third away leage victory of the season.

Manor today were: Louis, Kenny, Luke, Jim, Cookie, Mike, Sean, Jake, Glenn, Matt & Barry.

Saturday 24th. Home to Southcott RA. Won 4-1 (ht 3-0)
Just 11 players available were enough to see off a below par Southcott RA, who were themselves short of a few first team players.

Barry got the opened after just a few minutes when he chased down the keeper, forced the error and was able to keep contol to tap home from close range.

Loughton had the better of the chances in the first half hitting the frame of the goal a couple of time and one goalline clearance. At the other end Southcott could not get as close. On many occasions Loughton were just able to get the foot in first and come away with the ball.

Sean's low drive saw Loughton take a two goal lead and Jake's well placed free kick gave them the third.

At half -time Loughton were confident they could take the game away from Southcott with further goals, but a minute into the second half Southcott were back in the game. Some strong play down their right produced a chance and their captain was able to turn and put the ball right in the corner of the goal. Southcott continued to press and then against the run of play a corner from Russ was sliced into his own goal by a Southcott defender.
Loughton made more chances but were unable to capitalise. Southcott had one or two opportunities, but largely the fight had gone out of them.

Loughton today were: Ben, Kenny, Alex, Jim, Luke, Mike, Sean, Jake, Matt, Russ, Barry.

Saturday 17th March. At home to Potterspury, Lost 4-3 (ht 1-1)

A below par performance from Loughton today was not enough to get past Potterspury in this divisional semi-final.
Not the best preparation for Loughton who at one time of Friday were down to 10 available players and the first three options for keepers unavailable. Thankfully some were able to change their plans and Loughton were able to field a team.
Both keepers were at fault for the opening goals. Potterspury had the better chances in the first half. Loughton hardly troubled the Potterspury keeper. Eggy was the busier of the keepers and had to make some good saves to keep us in the game.

Ian injured himself in the warm up an manfully continued, but after 20 minutes he was unable to contine. Russ had not made it to the ground by then, so we had to resfuffle. Shaun came on to hold, Colin too Sean's position in midfiels and Sean replaced Ian.

The second half was a little more even. Potterspury took the lead for the first time with an undisputed penalty. Jim was on hand to make amends when he swept home a corner at the near post. Russ, who had got there at half time came on for the last 20 minutes. Colin dropped to full back and Kenny gave way.

Potterspury took the lead 10 minutes from the end and got their 4th as Loughton pressed for the equaliser. Loughton did get a penalty in the last 2 minutes and Matt scored resolutely from the spot.

Loughton today were: James, Kenny, (Russ), Adam, Jim, Luke, Colin, Sean, Jake, Matt, Barry & Ian (Shaun).

Saturday 10th March. Away to Great Linford. Lost 3-1 (ht 1-1)
One of the pleasures of managing Loughton Manor is that who ever we have available, we have a strong team. Today was one of those. Captain Mike Landy had been in A&E from early in the morning and was being operated on this afternoon to have his appendix removed. James was in goal was available for the first time in 6 weeks. Glenn made his starting debut at right back. Ian back from injury for his first game in three. Regular starter, Sean, took has place on the bench after being injured last week. Rockstar Jim was still out following his injury last week.

Loughton played really well in the first half and were in total control. One of our strengths this season has been our ability to score goals but today was another story. Gt. Linford hardly had a sniff of goal while at the other end Loughton wasted chance after chance. They did make the break though when the smallest player on the pitch won a header in the area and put in Matt who from close range tapped the ball in.
In the last minute of the first half a debated free kick was hit to the back post and Mark Cully was there to head home.

At half time Loughton were confident of winning the game, but a goal in the first couple of minutes of the second half gave Gt. Linford the lead. They broke down the right and the ball was lifted over James and into the net.
The second half has far more balanced. Both sides missing good chances, but it was Gt. Linford who got their third with 25 minutes to go.
Russ hit the post for the second time when the keeper made a good save and Jim headed into the keepers hands from close range. Sean came on for Barry in a reorganisation and Kenny came on for Glenn to see out the last 10 minutes.

After the first half it was a very disappointing end for Loughton who must now pick themselves up for the cup semi-final next week.

Loughton today were: James, Glenn (Kenny), Adam, Jim, Luke, Colin, Jake, Ian, Russ, Barry (Sean) Matt.

Just thought I would drop you a note with regards to the fixture Saturday. I thought it was a very good game to be fair, both teams played the game in a good spirit (something we haven’t seen much of this season) and both teams wanted to win it. Was a win for us justified? Probably in that we took our chances! First half you dominated and were unlucky to go in level after the performance. We came out a little quicker and it was always going to be a game where the next goal would be crucial!
The referee also noted to us that it was a pleasure to ref such a good game (not sure how much you will like that after the free kick! Ha)
All in all, a good competitive fixture! Best wishes for the rest of the season and we look forward to you guys coming back to Marsh Drive next season!
Mark Culley - Great Linford

Saturday 3rd. Home to Brackley Sports. Won 4-2 (aet). (ht 0-0) (ft 2-2)
The first half was a poor game of football, neither side able to control or keep the ball for a nano second. Only three things of note:

One good save from Ben.
An injury to Rockstar Jim that meant a trip to the hospital (thankfully, no broken bones).
Matt (Jim's replacement), with his first touch, beat the keeper with a header only for it to be cleared off the line.

Brackley Sports took the lead when the ball was struck home by Gary Hopkins through a crowded box.
Brackley only kept the lead for a few minutes. Matt whipped the ball in with his left for from the right for Barry to place his header.
Loughton then took the lead when Russ ran past two defenders and then played the ball through to Matt who struck right footed, first time into the far corner of the goal.
Brackley did not fall apart and continued to press with Loughton doing more of the defending and they deservedly got the equaliser to take us into extra-time.

Loughton has the better of extra-time and rook took the lead when a throw from Luke to Matt who turned inside the box and crossed over the keeper for Russ to tap in from point blank range. Glenn cam on for Barry to provide some fresh legs.
Five minutes from the end of extra time a one-two between Sean and Jake released Russ who was too fast for the defender. As the keeper advanced Russ slotted past him, hitting the post and into the net.

Loughton were: Ben, Luke, Adam, Jim, Alex, Mike, Sean (Jonathan), Jake, Barry (Glenn), Russ, Jim (Matt)

Saturday 25th. Home to Potterspury, Won 3-1 (ht 2-0)
We have had some fiery games against Potterspury in recent season and by comparisson this was a tame affair. Neither side made much of anything in the first period of the game and it took a free kick from well ourside the area from Jake to break the deadlock. Matt put us 2-0 up that started from a throw in from Alex (happy with that Alex?) it eventually (some one fill me in with the details) cam to Matt who made space for himself to strike with his left foot.

Potterspury are no pushover and we expected an onslaught in the second half. They did put more pressure on but could not break down the resolute Loughton defence. Jaz got our third when a cross from the right was not cleared and he had time to fire home. There were other chances at either end that went begging.

Loughton were looking to keep a clean sheet and thought we had done it when Ben made his best save of the game, but the ball came back off the bar and in the scramble a penalty was given. Kelly struck home with the last kick of the game.

Loughton today were: Ben, Kenny, Adam (Glenn) Jim, Alex, Sean, Mike, Jake, Barry (Jaz) Matt (Shaun) Jim.

Saturday 18th February. Away to MK Titans. Drew 2-2 (ht 1-2)
We started off a bit rusty and as the weather changed to a down poor MK Titans with the rain on there backs were taking the game to Loughton. The breakthrough came when former player Scott MacFarlane rifles his left footed shot in to the corner of Mike's net. Titans made it 2 when we failed to clear, again the keepr had no change.
Only when the weather subsided did Loughton start playing. Chances were missed at either end but Matt scored with a header that just looped out of reach of the keeper.

Loughton were much better in the second half and Titan's were largely reduced to break aways. Mike had to make some good saves and the defence managed to keep Titan's at bay. If MK Titan's had got their third then the game might have been over.
Loughton continued to press, but today our forwards were not as decisive as they have been for most of the season and it wasn't until late in the game when Matt rounded the keeper to bring the game level.

Loughton today were: Mike, Kenny, Jim, Alex, Luke, Sean, Jake, Ian, Barry Matt, Russ and Shaun.

Saturday 28th January. Home to Yardley Gobion. Won 5-2 (3-0)
Our last two away games against Yardley we have given our opposition a three goal start, then played well, started to get back into the game and then gave away a goal at the end to seal our defeat.
Thankfully the scores were reversed this week. We started really brightly and played some good football. Our passing and movement was great and within 25 minutes we were 3 up.

Ian got the first two, the second when he ran from deep anticipating the cross from the left to fire home from distance. He also had a hand in the third when his free kick was saved by the keeper and the post, but Jim was the one to anticipate it and he was able to lift the ball over prone keeper from a couple of yards.

Yardly then, woke as our passing game slowed and the game was even until half time.

Yardley were much more forceful in the second half and got a goal when a mix up between our centre half and the keeper enabled the Yardley forward Barrie to lob the stranded keeper.

Jaz, playing his first game for quite a while was working hard and got his rewards when he turned and fired home. Yardly did not give up and put the Loughton defence under continued pressure and scored their second with a header at the far post. If Yardley had have got another at that stage, it would have made an interesting end to the game, however it was Russ who broke down the right; hios shot was deflected in to give the keeper no chance and Loughton were home and dry.

Manor were: Mike (c), Kenny, Colin, Jim, Luke, Shaun, Jake, Ian, Jaz, Barry, Matt. Subs: Russ, Jim D., Sean.

Saturday 14th January 2012. Home to Thornborough Athletic. Drew 3-3 (ht 0-0)
With perfect conditions for football we welcomed Thornborough Athletic for our first game for a month. Jim Palmer was working until 2, so was on the bench with new signing Matt Line.
We started well but needed Eggy to make some good saves to keep us in the game. At the other end we did not work the keeper enough and it remained 0-0 at half -time. Jim had already come on for Billy who was struggling with an injury.

We did take the lead when Barry became free in the area and was able to finish. With in a few minutes Thornborough were level when we did not respond to a half cleared ball. Matt came on for Ian who had been working hard up front. Thornborough took the lead, but Matt got us back in the game with a scrappy goal. His second and our third was the best goal of the game when he turned and struck home leaving the diving keeper stranded. We were unable to hold on and Thornborough got there deserved equaliser.

Loughton today were: Eggy, Colin, Adam, Luke, Billy (Jim), Sean, Jake, Mike, Barry, Ian (Matt) and Russ.

Saturday 17th December. Home to Wolverton Town in the Divisional Trophy. Won 4-1 (ht 3-1)

2 goals from Rockstar Jim, one each from Russ and Jim saw us into the semi-finals of the Divisional Trophy.

The game started quite close, but Loughton took the lead when a well worked one touch goal came from a cross from Russ, that was headed into the path of Rockstar Jim. He hit a "super" volley from 2 yards. Wolverton did not seem themselves today and were missing a couple of players that caused us problems the last time out. They did however hit the bar before Loughton extended the lead. Barry was brought down on the left. The resulting free kick saw Jake hit a wonderful ball that Jim, who had joined the attack for the freekick, was able to head home at the back post from close range.
Wolverton kept going and got a goal back when O'Connor picked up the ball on the edge of the area, turned, his shot curled to the inside of the post and settled in the back of the net.
Loughton were soon 2 goals up when a pass from Luke found Jim making his way down the left. His whipped cross was met by Russ who had raced inside to take Jim's position to head home a "Demba Ba like" header from 3 yards.
Half-time came and for the first time in a long while the conditions encouraged both teams back to the dressing rooms.
Wolverton had a better second half. Landy, deputsing for the second game running in goal, was made to make some good saves. With the wind, his kicks were going that bit further and his clearance was chased down by Rockstar Jim, who was able to score from close range and virtually seal the game.
Anthony nearly scored his first goal for the club, but his long range shot bounced back off the bar.
Luke was carring a knock, so Anthony was moved to right back, Kenny to left back and Shaun slotted in the midfield alongside Sean and Jake.

Loughton today were: Mike, Kenny, Jim, Alex, Luke, Sean, Jake, Anthony, Barry, Russ, Jim and Shaun.

Saturday 3rd December. Away to Wolverton Town, drew 2-2 (ht 2-2)
Despite letting everyone know several times, putting the details on the website, reminding some before they left Loughton, several members of the team arrived at Greenleys via Radcliffe School.

The first half was very scrappy, Loughton took the lead when Russ ran on to a goalkick from Landy. Wolverton equalised with a well struck shot from the edge of the area that dipped over the keeper. Wolverton then took the lead when some clever movement from the Wolverton forwards put them clear on goal, the forward rounded the on rushing keeper to clip the ball home.
Our equaliser came the same way as the first, this time Russ lobbed the keeper rather than passing it in. Barry hit the bar with a cross and there were some goal mouth scrambles, but apart from that little to write home about.

Loughton had been out fought in the first half and were determined to do better and felt they had the better of the first 10 minutes of the second half, Ryan came on for Barry who was suffering with some form Man Flu, Anthony cam on for Shaun who was making his starting debut for the club.
Loughton continued to have the better of things. Ryan hit the post and Russ hit the woodwork.
We come away satisfied with the point, but still felt we could have got more from the day.

Manor today were: Mike, Kenny, Adam, Alex, Jim, Sean, Shaun (Anthony), Jake, Barry (Ryan), Jim, Russ.

Windy conditions today gave us a scrappy first half. What football there was, came from Grendon who were playing into the wind. Loughton were reduced to long range efforts. Both sides had a number of corners, but nothing came from them. Just has Grendon thought they had seen out the half, the breakthrough came when a long throw from Colin, was headed on by Jim onto the back post back across the goal and in.

Playing with the wind is not always to your advantage and Loughton thought that they could play much better in the second half. Loughton weathered some early pressure from Grendon, but it was Loughton that added to the lead. A corner from Ian was met by the head of Alex, flicked on by Mike and Russ, who had been put in the box for his reaction speed, did swivelled and stuck the ball home. Loughton’s third came from some passing and movement that lead to Jake being clear on goal. He stuck the ball hard and low for his third of the season. Loughton could have added to their total, but a good shout for a penalty against Mike, who was in on goal, a penalty given and missed and a couple more good chances also went begging.

We always have to work hard against Grendon who are a well run and organised team, so we were particularly pleased to come away with the three points and a clean sheet.

Loughton today were: James, Colin, Adam, Alex, Luke, Sean, Jake, Mike (Shaun), Ian, Jim D, Russ (Ant)

19th November. Away to Southcott RA. Lost 3-2 (ht 0-1)
A three late withdrawls from the players available meant some late adjustments to the Loughton Team today. Shaun Hobbs, who has been joining us for training for the last few weeks was signed up on the day to give us a bench.

Nevertheless, we still had good team to take to Linslade, but as we have found over previous seasons, you generally have to perform to your best to get anything from the games.
The first period, although scrappy with neither side showing what they were capable of was largely held in the Southcott half.

The first half highlights were a penalty appeal for Southcott that was turned down by the referee. Jake hit the post with a long low drive after some good work on the right from Russ.
We took the lead when Barry crossed from the left and Ian, playing centre forward, was in the right position to finish from close range. Southcott were good in the air went close on a couple of occasions from corners and a miss kick with the Loughton defence scrambling kept the game at 1-0 to Loughton at half time.

The second half started quite even but Southcott got the equaliser when a quickly taken short corner caught Loughton out allowing Deakin to score from close range. The second also came from a corner, with the ball councing in the area, two Southcott players were on hand, but Lambert got there first to thump the ball home from close range. Southcott's third came from open play when a whipped in cross was anticipated by Peck who raced to head home from 2 yards at the near post.
Loughton did get back into the game when Russ chased down the left and with Barry got the ball to Mike who sliced the ball into the top corner.
Loughton then had a little more urgency in their play, but it was not enough to get the equaliser.
Kenny had a solid game at the back but was replaced by Shaun Hobbs who looked composed and showed his positional sense by clearing one of the line with the keeper beaten.

Loughton today were: James, Kenny (Shaun), Luke, Jim, Alex, Sean, Mike, Jake, Barry Ian, Russ.

12th November. Home to Deanshanger Athletic - Divisional Trophy. Won 4-1 (ht 2-0)

The game started quite tight with few chances at either end. About 15 minutes in Jim was fouled in the box, though his theatrics to not endear him to the opposition, a penalty was given. On this occasion we did not convert it but within 5 minutes we were 2-0 up. Russ clipped a ball to Landy who broke through and with a composed finish gave us the lead. Soon after we got our second when Jim held up the ball and played out to Landy who crossed from the right to pick out Barry to head home.
Deanshanger did hit the post, but apart from that the game was quite tight and limited to long range shots.

With a 2-0 lead at half time, the next goal can be so important. Landy was again involved. This time a cross from the left found Sean who drove the ball home from close range.
Undeterred, Deanshanger pressed on. They did get a goal when a players turned a few times on the edge of the box and got his shot off into the corner of the net. Deanshanger then played three at the back and pressed Loughton back. Deanshanger were unable to finish their chances and Loughton were pleased to keep them at bay.
In the end Deanshanger poured more men forward and with just a couple of minutes to go a clearance came to Jim in his own half and with no apparant markers he sprinted away, with Russ in close pursuit. He was not needed as Jim rounded the keeper to finish the game with a flattering 4-1 scoreline.

Loughton were: James, Kenny, Adam (Jake) Alex, Billy,(Colin) Sean, Mike, Ian, Barry, Jim, Russ

5th November. Home to Great Linford. Won 2-1 (ht 2-0)
It makes it all the better that we won a hard fought victory against the team that beat our last weeks opponents by 4-1. With that in mind Great Linford probably thought victory was theirs for the taking.

Russ was running late, so Jaz available for the first time in a couple of months made a start. Ian was the unlucky one to find himself on the bench.
There were not many clear cut chances in the first half but both teams had goals disallowed for offside.
It was Loughton who took the lead when Barry latched on to a cross from the right to fire home with his first touch.
Barry was also involved in the second when he managed to worked an opening for Jim who, unmarked in the area calmly passed the ball into the corner of the net.
Our new keeper was helping by barking out instructions to the defence. The "clear,time,clear" to Jim was my favourite.

Great Linford did manage to get a goal back when a right footed cross from the right was met on the run at the back post to glace the ball home. A well taken goal. We also had Adam to thank for clearing one off the line. Great Linford were more determined in the second half and towards the end it seemed like attack v defence, but some strong performances at the back kept Great Linford at bay. It the other end we also worked some half chances and wasted a very good opportunity to wrap it up in the last few minutes.

I am sure Great Linford came away from today's game as frustrated as we were last week.

Manor today were: James, Alex, Adam, Jim, Billy (Ian), Sean, Mike, Jake, Barry, Jim, Jaz (Russ).

29th October - Yardley Gobion away. Lost 4-1 (ht 2-0)
The last time we played Yardley Gobion at their ground we felt we played the better football, made more chances and came away witha 4-1 defeat.
Today, though we contolled the game early on we did not make clear chances. Yardley defended their area well and with their first attach scored from a corner. We recommenced our football but were again undone by a breakaway, though there was belief if a handball before the ball was struck home very well from distance.
Despite our posession we did not work the keeper enough. Sean came closest when he met a cross that grazed the crossbar.

At half time we knew from our first half performace that we were still in the game. James 'Eggy' came on for his debut and although he, in his enthusiasm, gave away a penalty, he redemmed himself by saving it.
Like last time a mix up at the back gave Yardley their third. Our goal came when Ian crossed from the left, Jim ran across the line of the ball to distract the keeper and the ball bounced into the net. Jake went close when a left footer from distance rattled the bar, but in all honesty Yardley defended well and threatened more in the second half as we lost our shape working to get back into the game.
Yardley's forth came late on to finish a miserable afternoon.

Positives:
Following the departure of our keeper a couple of weeks ago, we have a commanding figure between the posts again that frees our captain to play outfield.
Nearly every other team is inconsistent as ourselves.

Loughton were: Mke (Eggy) Luke (Kenny) , Colin, Jim, Alex (Rockstar Jim), Sean, Ian, Jake, Barry, Ryan, Russ.

Saturday 22nd October. Home to Stewkley. Won 4-1 (ht 3-1)
An early goal from Russ set us on our way. A through ball from Ian put Russ clear who struck home from inside the penalty area. Ryan got the second when he was tripped in the area and put away the resulting penalty. Russ made it three when his shot was deflected over the keeper.
After that we lost or way a little, gave away a weak penalty to lift Stewkley's spirts.
A couple of changes at half time saw our fullbacks replaced. We had more defending to do second half, though there were good chances at both ends. Barry hit the bar with a thumping left footer and Russ also hit the post. Stewkley also hit the post but were unable to convert their chances.
Jim came on for Ryan. Ian got the fourth with a well worked move involving Russ, Jim and Barry.

Although he did not play today, we are pleased to have added Michael Robinson to or squad and look forward to seeing him making a starting appearance very soon.

Manor today were: Mike, Luke (Kenny), Jim, Adam, Alex (Billy) Sean, Jake, Ian, Barry, Ryan (Jim) & Russ.

Saturday 15th October. Grendon Rangers away. Lost 2-1 (ht 1-1)
We never get anything when travelling to Grendon, apart from lost a few times, a whole lot of frustration and a long drive home.
Nothing new today. Mike went in goal to cover the absent Jamie. We felt we played much better than our midweek game and should have got something from the game.
We were a goal down in 90 seconds from a corner. To be fair the low sun made it difficult to defend. Grendon had the better of the early stages, but we were always in the game and felt that we were getting the better of the game.
Our equaliser came from a penalty when Barry was pushed in the back as he rose to head the ball. If only the defender had realised where the header might have gone, he would not have bothered with the foul. Ryan calmly put it away despite the amusing comments from some of the Grendon players.

1-1 at half time was probably fair. Grendon had the better of the opening exchanges in the second half, but we continued to make half chances at the other end. Our shooting boots were not on today. Grendon's winner came about 15 minutes from the end when a free kick wad headed home at the back post.

We did have more chances at the end, but did not trouble the keeper often enough. Mike had little to do in our own goal, so once again we leave Grendon with nothing apart from a better performance and a realisation that we did play better than midweek and can play much better again.

Hopefully, we will have a bigger squad to choose from over the next few weeks and we can again deliver the promise that we have.

Loughton today were: Mike, Luke, Colin, Jim, Alex, Sean, Ian, Jake, Barry, Russ, Ryan. Thanks to Kenny and Anthony for helping with tactics at half time.

Saturday 8th October. Potterspury away. Drew 2-2 (ht2-2)
Goals from Ryan and Russ gave us a two goal lead, but Potterspury fought back to 2-2 at the break.

As you would expect a physical game, well taken goals from Potterspury, we were denied an early lead when a goal was disallowed for offside but our forwards tenacity gave us the lead. Russ chasing down a lost cause, crossing for Ryan to head home from close range. Russ hit a spinning shot with his right after cutting in from the left to leave the keeper helpless to give us a two goal lead.

With Potterspury playing downhill in the second half our defence coped well and limited the chances. Neither keeper had a lot to do in the second half. The game fell apart towards the end with a series of bookings for Potterpury players and one getting his marching orders in the last 10 minutes when he disputed a penalty call for Potterspury.

Loughton today were: Jamie, Alex, Adam, Jim, Luke, Sean, Mike, Jake, Ian, Ryan and Russ. Kenny and Jonathan were the unused subs.

Saturday 24th September. Away to Wing in the NBDFL Inter-Divisional Trophy. Won 8 (eight)-0 (ht 5-0)
Wing played a highline, so for the first half much of the play was in the Loughton half or in a very tight midfield. This produced some stifled play and a few offsides against the Loughton Forwards. This did not prevent us making quite a few chances with Russ, Barry and Sean putting us 3-0 up quite early on. The game continues in the same vein. Another two goals from Barry to complete his hat-trick saw us comfortable at half time.

Another from Russ and a couple of goals from centre back, Jim. The best being an interception in his own half that he ran with, made the pass at the right time ran on to get it back, round the keeper to score.
With the game safe, Loughton could afford to give the old men (Dave and Jonathan) and Anthony, who was available back from injury, a run out.
Thanks to those who gave up the last 20-30 minutes of the game to let others enjoy their occasional game.

We look forward to playing MK Churches in the 2nd round.

Loughton today were: Jamie, Kenny, Jim, Adam, Alex, Mike (Dave), Luke (Anthony), Ian, Sean, Barry (Jonathan) and Russ.

Saturday 17th September. Home to Buckingham Athletic. Lost 1-6 (ht 1-3)
We were again struggling for players with 3 texts on Friday night. At one stagethe manager was going to have to play. On the positive side, we do now have a linesman who has agreed to come every week.
We started ok, but three quick goals between the 5th and 15th minute sunk us. The first a Buckingham Athletic striker had time to turn and shoot home from close range. The second was a penalty after Alex had raised hs boot too high and caught a Buckingham player on the chest. The third was a well worked goal that was scored from close ramge.
Our Barry, Ryan and Russ were trying top close and chase everything down and nearly made half chances for themselves. We got a goal back when a bouncing ball deceived the Buckingham keeper, Russ and Ryan were on hand to capitalise with Ryan scoring from close range.
it was not all one way. We did have some periods of play and three cornerrs on the trot. Mike felt that he should have been awarded a penalty when he was pushed in the back while trying to get on to one of the corners.

Buckingham started the second half very well and within a few minutes had extended their lead a couple more times.

Late on on the game they got their last.

More to follow...

Saturday 10th September. Thornborough Athletic away. Won 8 (eight)-0 (ht 1-0)
Goals from Barry (4), Jim (2) Russ and Jake.
The first half we didn't take our chances, but were still one up when Jake picked out the run from Barry who crossed for Jim to tap home from close range. Jamie kept out clean sheet intact with a couple of good saves towards the end of the half.
Mike rightly had a goal disallowed for offside, but Thornborough are usually a tough opposition and we knew that we would need to continue in the same vein for the second half.

Russ reminded me he had three assists but there was too much good football in the second half (Jake was right!) Can someone remind me the order and some of the details of the goals?

The second was a ball played through to Jim who played Barry through from the right. Barry had take up a central position, took one touch out of his feet and buried the shot in the corner with his right. The third, Jake plays Russ through who pulled the ball back for Barry to tap in off his shins from two yards into the top of the net.
Fourth: Barry chases down a defender and makes a tackle that Jim picks up and back heels for Barry to slot home.

Fifth: the ball was played to Russ on the right, who crossed for Barry to diving head home into the left corner.

6, 7 and 8 are still a mystery though Russ got the 8th.

I was just looking through the records for comparable scores. We beat Silverstone 9-2 in May 2007 and in early 2005 we had two big wins, an 8-0 win against Deanshanger Res and 9-0 against MK Wanderers.
Barry equals our most goals in a game with four. Jaz, Pete "Pops" Smith and Ryan are the only others to do that.

Manor today were: Jamie, Luke (Cookie), Adam, Jim, Alex (Kenny), Sean Mike, Jake, Russ, Barry and Jim.

Saturday 3rd September. Deanshanger Athletic away. Won 2-1 (ht 1-0)
Lots of players missing this week, including the manager, but with strength in depth, this was not a problem today.
Goals from Landy and Russ (89th minute) gave us the win, despite Jim's own goal.

With a strong cross wind and a rolling, rutted, pitch today was never going to be a day for attractive football. But following the defeat last week the 11-strong Loughton Manor squad were determined to get a good result.
For the first 10 minutes Deanshanger played some good pressing football, looking to play into the channels. However, the Manor defence co-ordinated well to cut out the final ball and Jamie was rarely troubled in goal. As the game progressed Manor became more dominant as they adjusted to the pitch. Landy and Shaun provided the physical presence in midfield allowing Jake to move the ball well releasing Barry and Russ on the wings. The pressure started to mount as Manor won a succession of corners and free-kicks in the oppositions half. After a few good deliveries and desperate clearances it wasn’t a surprise when Landy headed home powerfully from close range - Russ providing the in-swinging corner. 0-1. (Jake insists it was him that provided the cross from a free kick)
Using the momentum of the goal Manor pushed on with Russ tormenting the defence with his pace and dizzy runs on the right side. While Barry provided a constant threat from the left, working interchange passes well with Ryan. Unfortunately we were unable to capitalise on the chances and the half finished 0-1.
With the opposition starting to bicker amongst themselves and an informative team-talk from Ian, our stand-in linesman and manager, the mood was positive at the start of the second half. However, everyone knew a single goal wouldn’t be enough to close out the game comfortably and the whole team needed to move up another gear. Deanshanger were obviously relieved to have made it to half-time only facing a 1-goal deficit. Using the break to reorganise they pushed players on, playing 4 up front at points, and looked for the equaliser.As with the first half Manor were slow to adapt to the change coming under pressure early on. However the Deanshanger goal came from an unfortunate back pass, rather than the clinical finishing of their strikers. Jim toe-poked (punted) an unexpected back-pass from outside of the box which wrong footed Jamie and bobbled into the net. 1-1
At 1-1 the opposition had the smell of victory in their nostrils as they pushed forward. But the Manor defence of Kenny, Colin, Jim and Alex remained resolute, working hard to clear their lines. The rest of the half remained evenly balanced with opportunities presenting themselves to both side. Deanshanger were finding it hard to control Jake in the centre of the pitch and a few late tackles highlighted their frustration. But it was the Manor wingers that managed to leave their mark in the last minutes of the game. A sharp run from Barry into box was followed by a neatly slotted ball to Russ. With defenders bearing down Russ reacted quickly, making his own luck, by blasting a shot that benefitted from a deflection and hit the back of the net. 1-2.
The final whistle blew shortly after. A tough day for the Manor team on a pitch that didn’t suit their style of play. But everyone agreed that sometimes it isn’t pretty and it’s the result that counts – 3 more points in the bag.

A fairly even game, but we created more and better chances. A good header from Landy put us 1-0 up. At half-time we were comfortable , but then Jim tried a back pass with Jambo already rushing out and we could only watch it roll in.
Deanshanger then probably had the better posession but we always felt we could win the game. Russ scored with a great finish right at the end.
As the players left the pitch a few of the spectators were heard to say (by Kenny) that they thought they had seen the next Maicon.

Team: Jamie, Kenny, Colin, Jim, Alex, Sean, Landy, Jake, Barry, Russ and Ryan.

Jake says I do like the match report, its a bit better than the normal " we scored some goals and conceded some but can't remember how they went in or who scored them"

Saturday 27th August. Home to Buckingham Town Res. Lost 2-7 (ht0-5)
We had quite a strong team out today, with only 2-3 missing from our strongest team. Despite the scoreline it was 10 minutes before Buckingham Town had their first shot on goal and 17 minutes before they had their second. By then it was 2-0 for the visitors. No blame could be attributed to the keeper.
We did fall apart for the next 20 minutes and were ran ragged by the passing and movement of Buckingham Town who came with, at least, 5 players who were regulars in their United Counties League team from last season.
Just before the half time we did regain some composure but from memory were unable to trouble the keeper.

No doubt Buckingham Town were relaxed at the start of the second half and we took advantage with the keeper making one good save before Jaz scored at the second attempt from a rebound off the post. A little later in the game Buckingham Town got their 6th.
Ian got our second with a very well taken free kick that the keeper could not reach.
Buckingham Town got the last with another well taken goal right in the corner of Jamie's net.
I thought I would be more disappointed with a 7-2 scoreline, but in places we did play well, it was just that Buckingham Town were a far better team. Their shooting boots were not as accurate in the second half and we were grateful for that. I didn't think we played badly, a little naivley at times perhaps. Let's hope the next time we play the reserves their first team have a game.

Loughton today were: Jamie, Luke, Mike, Jim P, Barry (Kenny), Sean, Jake (Ryan), Ian, Jaz, Jim D., Russ.

Tuesday 23rd August. Wolverton Town at home. Lost 2-3 (0-1)
We have had close games against Wolverton of late, winning the last 2 by the odd goal. Tonight it went the other way.
Wolverton took the lead in the first half when the striker pulled away to the right and receive the ball inside the box and hit the ball hard enough to prevent Jamie keeping it out.

In the second half Russ got is back into the game twice, but Wolverton retook the lead, their third was a massive deflection that left the keeper stranded.
With the game at 2-2, Ryan and Barry came on for Jaz and Jim, a little later Billy came on for Cookie.
We had our chances, particularly with the keeper injured and then replaced, but tonight could not score more than we conceded.

Loughton tonight were: Jamie, Colin, Mike, Jim, Cookie (Billy), Sean, Jake, Ian, Russ, Jim (Ryan) & Jaz (Barry).