Match Reports

AFC Emley 2 - Eccleshill 2 . Saturday 6th of February 2010

DeJa Vu - But Worse..

Eccleshill visited the Welfare ground bottom of the league and mounted 3 credible attacks throughout the game. Crucially for Emley they scored from 2 to leave the home side trailing by the same at half time. Emley dominated for large periods of the game leaving the home supporters with a feeling of "haven't we seen this before". Josh Ingham on as a part of triple substitution, clawed one back. Then deep in injury time a clever header from Kenworthy levelled the scores.

With the majority of the supporters congregated around the half way line to get the best view in the foggy conditions Emley started the game well, a Max Joice corner on 3 minutes flicked on at the near post by Sean Hazelden resulted in a shot well blocked off the line from Steven Kenworthy. An excellent cross from Mick Amos saw Lee Hill's header loop over the bar. Max Joice continued to be very dangerous from fullback, showing excellent distribution of the ball all over the field.

Craig Marsh saw a header just the wrong side of the post following another good flick from Hazelden folowing a long throw. From the kick off the ball was knocked long, Joice collected the ball on the wing, facing his own goal he got a two handed shove in the back. With nothing given Declan Corby took the ball and advanced unopposed on Mick Clarke's goal. His 30 yard shot beat the Emley keeper at his near post.

Just 2 minutes later Emley were in deeper trouble, an Eccleshill corner was only partially cleared and the second cross to the back post was poorly defended. A Richard Myers strong header hit the foot of the post, rebounded kindly to him and he made no mistake with his shot. Emley created a couple of good chances in the remaining 20 minutes of the half, but were guilty of overplaying in the last third.

Emley certainly came out fired up for the second half, whereas Eccleshill took every opportunity to slow the game down. A Josh Wright free kick on the edge of the box was blocked, breaking to the edge of the box the ball was floated in. Hill's header forced Aaron Brian to stretch, managing to tip the ball over the bar. Wayne Shooter then hit the side netting following good work from Hill. Shooter moved out to the wing and instantly looked far more dangerous, his good run and one two with Hill resulted in a strong shot that was well held by the keeper.

Max Joice played a lovely line ball to Shooter, his run beat 2 defenders and his powerful drive across the 6 yard box missed several diving lunges. Hill had another shot well blocked after a good hold up and turn from Kenworthy. The Emley captain then played an inch perfect pass that split the visitors defence for Marc Townsend. His shot looked goal bound had it not been for an excellent one handed block from Brian.

With 63 minutes gone the Emley manager used all 3 substitutes , with Wright, Amos and Marsh making way. Josh Ingham gave the home side a glimmer of hope on 73 minutes. Making the most of a defensive slip he picked the ball up outside the box, a sharp ball into Kenworthy's feet was directed perfectly onto his continued run. Through a crowd of players he bent the ball with the inside of his foot into the bottom left corner of the net.

The visitors were becoming increasingly desperate and were guilty of gamesmanship, stopping the game for a substitute when the intended sub wasn't even stripped. It did however come back to bite them. Townsend hit the side netting with a shot on 90 minutes. Before the same player got to the dead ball line, crossed the ball, Kenworthy in the 6 yard box cleverly flicked his header that looped over the defender and keeper into the far corner of the net.

Emley remain in second place, 4 points behind leaders Leeds Carnegie who had no fixture this weekend and now have a game in hand. Staveley who beat Bottesford by 4 goals are 2 points behind with 2 games in hand. Emley now face Worsbrough at the Welfare Ground on Wednesday evening. Their next opponents sit second bottom of the league with a 2 point cushion over Eccleshill.

Emley Man of Match – Max Joice.

Team: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Wright J, Marsh , Hazelden, Amos, Townsend, Kenworthy, Shooter, Hill, Subs :, Ingham, Garside, Reid.

AFC Emley 1 - Appleby Frodingham 1. Saturday 30th of January 2010

A Game Emley Should Have Won 4 Times Over..

In contrast to the down and dirty win over Grimsby in midweek, Emley played some good attacking football. What they could not do was convert the large numbers of chances into goals. Lee Hill scored an excellent effort on the turn from 35 yards. Emley then failed to convert a spot kick before the visitors scored from virtually their only scoring opportunity of the half.

Club Captain Steve Kenworthy was rested, taking his place on the substitutes bench, Wayne Shooter started up front in what looked like his natural position. On an excellent smooth, if a little hard well grassed surface Emley started very brightly, spraying the ball around the pitch. Lee Hill chased what looked like a ball going dead, turning the ball inside his cross from the bye line looked destined for the keepers gloves. Shooter nipped in at the near post and his shot went just wide of the post.

Only minutes later Mick Amos had a shot go narrowly over the bar. Max Joice starting the game in his familiar full back role was supplementing the attack on the overlap whenever possible . With 17 minutes elapsed he picked up the ball on the right wing and was allowed to run to the edge of the box. His shot brought an excellent one handed tip over from Zand in the visitors goal.

Appleby's only meaningful chance of the half came on 19 minutes, the Emley defence having little to do failed to clear their own lines. A scooped shot looked to have beaten Clarke over his head but fell onto the roof of the net.

Emley were winning free kicks outside the visitors box with virtually every other attack. Decisively they were unable to get the ball in the net from the well taken deliveries the Wrights of Simon and Josh. A goal kick from Clarke and a defensive stumble from the visitors defenders saw both Hill and Shooter with just the keeper to beat. A poor first touch saw the ball trickle into the grateful hands of the keeper.

At the break the good crowd that had turned out on a bitterly cold day were starting to feel that this might not be their day.

Emley started the second period in the same manner in which they had completed the first. Shooter saw his effort go over the bar following good work on the left flank. It was from a flicked header from the same player on 52 minutes that saw Emley take the lead. Getting up well his header found Hill on the edge of the box. With the ball coming across his body he swivelled and on the half volley smacked the ball off the upright in to the bottom right corner of the net.

Emley continued to press, an excellent corner from Josh Wright was partially cleared to the edge of the box. Townsend volleyed dipping shot went just over the bar. The same player created the next opportunity, making one of his lung busting runs his shot was drilled straight into the midriff of the keeper.

With 64 minutes gone Steven Kenworthy got an excellent reception from the fans as Shooter made way for the substitute. His first action, and having not touched the ball was to create a penalty for the home side. Mick Amos working hard won the ball and his strong run to the edge of the box saw him play the ball for the run of Kenworthy. A scything challenge across him immediately saw the ref pointing to the spot. Josh Wright in fine form from the penalty spot hit the ball to the keepers right, at a favourable height the keeper got across and made the block.

Simon Wright then brought another fine save from the visitors keeper after good work on the left. Into the last quarter Appleby won their first corner of the half. Siddal on as substitute rose highest in the6 yard box and his flicked header nestled in the corner of the net.

Emley knowing the importance of the game flung everything at the Lincolnshire side. Hazelden and Kenworthy brought another great stop from the keeper at the foot of his post. Kenworthy and Leech combined well on the left and brought another good stop from the keeper. Into the last minute Hill had a shot that hit the bar and went wide.

With Leeds Carnegie losing to Barton Town, and Staveley well beaten 4 -1 at Rossington, Emley have missed an important chance to further narrow the gap at the top of the table. Emley remain second in the league, 5 points adrift of Carnegie having played the same number of games. Staveley are 4 points behind but with 2 games in hand.

Emley Man of Match – Lee Hill.

Team: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Wright J, Marsh , Hazelden, Amos, Townsend, Shooter, Hill, Wright S Subs : Kenworthy, Ingham, Garside.

Grimsby Borough 0 - AFC Emley 2. NCEL D1 Wednesday 27th of January 2010.

3 Points - But A Game Instantly Forgotten.

Ian Banks made one change to the team that beat Pontefract Collieries at the weekend. Wayne Shooter made his full debut for the unavailable Amos. A penalty at the end of the first half from Josh Wright and a close range header from Marc Townsend were enough to secure the points against a hard working Grimsby side.

On a rolled and very slick pitch, you could have been excused for thinking that the Emley players were still in the dressing room at kick off. Lee Stephenson made the most of poor defending, had a clear run on the box in the opening 90 seconds. Ingham working back did enough to pressure the attacker, whose shot struck the bar and flew over.

Emley were being awarded numerous free kicks, one such kick was taken quickly by Josh Wright to the feet of Kenworthy. Shielding the ball well he broke to the by line and put an excellent cross on to the head of Townsend at the back post. His powerful header was blocked on the line by Leigh Graves in the home goal.

Emley were still making hard work of creating any meaningful attacks. In contrast Grimsby were catching the visitors on the break with regularity. McPharland had a good opportunity, but his left wing shot flew across the face of goal. In the next attack Mick Clarke was fortunately on his toes, making a good low save to his right post from the dangerous Ireland.

The visitors were finding it unusually difficult to play the flowing passing football that has won them so many games this season. Typically when they did they created opportunities. In the last 5 minutes before half time, a good cross onto the head of Lee Hill saw his glancing header just go wide.

On the stroke of half time Marc Townsend received an inch perfect pass from Simon Wright allowing him to run one on one with the keeper. Taking a touch the ball ran past Graves who unceremoniously brought Townsend down. Graves received a caution for the offence which was a probably just punishment despite being the last man. Josh Wright placed the ball on the spot and his kick was confidently taken into the top left corner of the goal.

As the players went off for half time. Emley manager got an early shower, as the home keeper walked off he sprayed both Banks and referee with water from his bottle. The referee stated that it happened accidently and took no action.

The second half was rather a dour affair, with both sides unable to make any impact in the attacking third of the pitch.

On 66 minutes Max Joice came off the bench to replace Josh Ingham at full back. Having recovered from the injury that forced him to miss the game at Pontefract, his attacking impact was immediately noticeable. Kenworthy who had a uncommonly quiet game, sheilded the ball well on 73 minutes, turned and saw the deep run of Wayne Shooter. Taking the ball well and bearing down on goal his shot took a deflection removing most of the power allowing Graves to collect easily.

Into the last minute of the game, Joice made an interception in his own half a strong run down the right wing resulted in a drilled cross into the 6 yard box. Townsend timed his run perfectly and his brave header in the 6 yard box was unstoppable.

There was a really good turn out from the Emley supporters, who would have gone home disappointed at the performance but more than happy with the result. Last year this was a game that Emley would have dropped at least 2 points. It is testimony to the management and squad that they have ground out a result.

Difficult to pick out a man of the man match, Mick Clarke didn't have a great deal to do, but what he did he did competently and without fuss.

Emley Man of Match: Mick Clarke.

Emley.

Clarke, Ingham, Leech, J Wright, Marsh, Hazelden, Shooter, Townsend, Kenworthy, Hill, S Wright. Subs I Banks, Garside, Joice.

Pontrefract Collieries 1 - AFC Emley 3. NCEL D1 Saturday 23^rd of January 2010.

On a heavy pitch Ian Banks team came away with all 3 points in an entertaining local derby. Lee Hill scored a goal in each half with Captain Steven Kenworthy grabbing his 9^th league goal of the season.

Banks was forced to name himself on the bench as Mark Stuart put his back out in the warm up. Re jigging his midfield loanee Simon Wright made an impressive debut on the flank. Josh Ingham continued at full back in place of the injured Max Joice. Former Wakefield attacker Wayne Shooter was also named on the bench.

Despite the heavy pitch Emley started brightly, buoyed by the win over Brighouse in midweek. Mark Townsend was allowed to play in front of the midfield and running hard into space was to cause the home defence problems throughout the game. Within minutes he had made a strong run to the right wing, his cross was met by the head of Kenworthy. Without any great power his effort was easily collected. The same player also forced the keeper to fumble a strong shot; unfortunately the ball went wide of Emley players backing up.

Despite this early pressure it was Pontefract that created the best opportunity to score. Taking a deep free kick the ball was lofted into the area, the headed clearance was ineffective leaving Fothergill with a clear shot on goal. Rushed into the shot the ball went sailing over the bar.

Lee Hill was to see a shot well saved by Poulter in the host’s goal, whilst Clarke in the visitor’s sticks was unable to do anything to a drilled ball that narrowly eluded Ryan Williams at the back post. Moments later Emley over committed on the attack and Pontefract on the break had a 5 on 3 situation, resulting with a wide ball again fired across the 6 yard box from Fothergill.

Emley opened the scoring on 27 minutes, Townsend was brought down, from the subsequent free kick the ball was put out for a corner. Josh Wright delivered the ball to the near post. Lee Hill rose the highest and his flicked header was clearly saved behind the line by Poulter.

Pontefract then had another great chance to get on the score sheet, Mickey Long was picked out at the back post with a deep cross. Clarke made an excellent close range save to his left with the attacker looking favourite to score. On 33 minutes Pontefract had a goal ruled out for offside.

Steven Kenworthy doubled Emley’s lead on 36 minutes. Despite being unwell he coolly finished inside the box with a curling shot into the bottom right corner. Credit should also go to Antony Leech in the build up, breaking out of midfield he timed the run of Kenworthy well and played an inch perfect pass to the feet of Kenworthy.

Just 2 minutes later Emley were guilty of compliancy, a poor pass allowed Ryan Poskitt a run on goal. His 30 yard shot flew across Clarke who despite getting a hand to the ball could not prevent the ball from striking the post and crossing the line.

The second half opening 15 minutes was a fairly stale affair, with the majority of play taking place in the increasing gluey midfield. Fothergill yet again had a good opportunity on 64 minutes when he found himself the far side of the Emley defence. Bearing down on goal he scuffed his shot that went well wide of troubling Clarke.

Wayne Shooter came on from the bench replacing Mick Amos on the wing, immediately showing his willingness to take on defenders. Showing good close control on the heavy pitch, combined with his final delivery into the box instantly won over the large number of away supporters.

On 67 minutes Lee Hill capped a fine performance with his second goal. Picking up the ball in midfield he picked out Townsend who made a run wide left. He delivered the ball into the box to Hill’s feet on the penalty spot. Instantly controlling the ball he turned the defender and drilled the ball past the dive of the keeper into the bottom right corner.

Emley created a number of further chances, Josh Wright lifted a free kick over a 4 man wall and looked destined for the top right corner until Poulter made a good save pushing the ball over the bar. Clarke in the Emley goal was alert in the last minutes of the game to push a well struck free kick over the bar.

The last action of the game saw man of the match Mark Townsend beat 4 defenders with a strong run down the right flank. Into the box his low shot forced a good low save from the keeper.

This was a must win game for Emley and on a tricky surface it was a very good result. Mick Clarke had a really good game and made crucial saves at important times. Sean Hazelden had one of his best games of the season, Simon Wright was incisive and if we had used him more I am sure we would have had greater success. The signing of Shooter looked, from the short time on the pitch a real coo for Banger. Towns' didn't put a foot wrong all game, it's very rare that he does.

Emley Man of Match: Marc Townsend.

Emley.

Clarke, Ingham, Leech, J Wright, Marsh, Hazelden, Amos, Townsend, Kenworthy, Hill, S Wright. Subs I Banks, Garside, Shooter.

Attendence 86.

AFC Emley 3 – Brighouse Town FC 3. (After Extra Time) Emley Won 5 – 4 on penalties. Wednesday 20^th of January 2010.

With the weather destroying all the fixtures since the 15^th of December, both teams played with a certain rustiness. Brighouse had a 2 goal lead at the interval and looked certain to progress to the Quarter finals. Goals from Kenworthy and Hill took the game into extra time, whilst Wright converted a penalty to give Emley the lead. At the end of added time the scores were level again, following a 45 yard cross come shot from Alex Hallam.

The opening minutes were fairly cagey with both teams getting forward, testing each other out. The lack of football showed with plenty of balls going astray and the first touch often lacking. Brighouse nonetheless had the best of the opening exchanges, a free kick from the half way line was fumbled by Clarke. The ball broke to the right of the box and a first time shot was drilled across the box and wide. Emley’s first chance came on 12 minutes, a Mick Amos shot from an ever tightening angle was easily saved by Williams in the Brighouse goal.

With 25 minutes gone Crossley gave the visitors the lead, always available and the outlet for many of the Brighouse attacks. He collected a ball on the right wing and advancing floated a deep cross, it beat the Emley keeper struck the foot of the post and into the net. Emley showed little initiative, often attempting too many passes in the last third. Brighouse continued to press and a mix up with the Emley central defenders, who were only able to clear the ball to the edge of the box. On the half volley a Lee Burgess shot flew into the top left corner leaving Clarke no chance.

Emley’s best chance fell to Captain Steven Kenworthy late into the half. His turn and half volley in the 6 yard box fell into the keeper’s arms who was well placed.

At the break Max Joice was substituted having taken a knock. Marc Townsend was brought into the game where he played centrally, whilst Josh Ingham dropped to fullback. Townsend made a positive impact as Emley started brightly, restricting the visitors to long range shots. Kenworthy was linking well with Gavin Armitage who was making his return to the side. Brighouse seemed content in defending the 2 goal lead, using every opportunity to slow the game down.

Townsend created Emley’s first goal just after the hour, doing well he got the ball to the dead ball line and drilled his cross from the left. Kenworthy ghosted into the box beating both defender and keeper to the ball deflecting the ball into the corner of the net.

Just 3 minutes later Emley drew level, Lee Hill stabbing the ball home under the keeper from close range. The game opened up with both teams looking to win the game in regulation time, with both sides showing signs of fatigue. Into the last 5 minutes Kenworthy and Townsend linked up well, with the former putting Amos through on goal, his slightly rushed shot although went well wide.

Kenworthy succumbed to cramp with Olli Gage returning from injury to take his place. Into the last 60 seconds of the half Brighouse could have won the game. With Emley claiming a foul on Wright, Brighouse broke down the right wing. Substitute Philips shot fizzed across the Emley goal and just wide.

Emley took the lead just 5 minutes into the first period of extra time. Lee Hill gambled after the Brighouse defender failed to deal with a long ball into the box. Through on goal Hill was brought down from behind and a penalty kick awarded. Josh Wright stepped up and confidently put the ball to the left of the keeper.

Brighouse then started to play the best passing football of the game, leaving Emley to soak up the pressure and resort to counter attacking on the break. Into the last minute of the first period of extra time Josh Wright picked up the ball in midfield, spread the ball out to the right and continued his run. The ball was played back to him and with a brilliant touch on the volley played an inch perfect pass to Amos. Through on goal and the advancing keeper Amos lifted the ball over the bar.

With 15 minutes to go, Marsh deep into the Brighouse half lifted a cross into the box that hit the post and went wide. The game was destined to go to penalties when Brighouse defender Hallam picked up the ball on the left wing. From 45 yards out and a repeat of Crossley’s first half goal. His cross come shot found the far post and into the goal. Clarke was injured as result of his efforts to keep the ball out, leading to 6 minutes of added time.

In front of a crowd of over 100, Brighouse took the first penalty of the shootout. Both teams scoring each of their first 4, all of which were impressive in their placement and power. The last of the penalties were taken by players named Leech. Clarke made a smart save to his low right to deny Brighouse. Antony Leech stepped up for Emley and placed the ball confidently to the left of Williams.

Emley are the first team through to the quarter finals of the league cup. Importantly this was a good game to blow away some of the cobwebs from such a long layoff.

Emley: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Wright, Marsh, Hazelden, Amos, Ingham, , Kenworthy, Hill, Armitage.

Askern Villa 1 – AFC Emley 4. NCEL Div’ 1. Tuesday 15^th of December 2009.

Clinical Finishing Tops an All-Round Excellent Team Display .

On paper what looked like a tricky game for Emley resulted in all 3 points for the visitors. Four Emley players featured on the score sheet in a game that they largely dominated.

Emley continued their run of excellent results against a good Askern Villa side, the 3 points lifting them to third in the division. Having beaten their South Yorkshire rivals twice this season Emley started well on a heavy pitch, with a mist threatening to overwhelm the floodlights. Marc Townsend was given freedom to play deeper into the attacking half in support of Kenworthy and Amos. To good effect he was putting pressure on the back four resulting in the home team loosing possession in midfield.

Emley took the lead on 10 minutes when Max Joice picked up the loose ball centrally in midfield. Running hard he beat two lunging challenges and advanced on the penalty area. Townsend took a sharp ball from Joice and turned the ball perfectly into the path of Joice who had continued his run on goal. With the keeper to beat he hit a powerful shot into the roof of the net.

The visitors continued to pile on the pressure and just 3 minutes later won a free kick in the Askern half. Hazelden lifted the ball into the area and found Townsend’s head, his flick was controlled by Kenworthy who laid a ball square to Martyn Scully on the edge of the box. His shot flew through a crowd of players into the bottom left corner of the net. He did particularly well to control the shot well with the ball bobbling.

With Emley well on top of the game they were playing some good football from front to back. Josh Ingham was linking up with the ever improving Mark Stuart, finding Mick Amos and Steven Kenworthy as willing recipients to the deep ball.

Emley extended their lead further on 20 minutes. Joice floated in a curling free kick deep into the Askern penalty area. Craig Marsh rose highest and his powerful header rattled off the crossbar to the edge of the box to be met by Townsend. He smacked the ball which screamed into the top left corner of the net with the Askern players looking bemused as to what had just happened.

Mick Clarke in the Emley goal had to wait until the 32^nd minute before making a meaningful contribution to the game. A ball lost in midfield was played through and the resulting shot brought an excellent low diving save from the Emley stopper. Prior to the break Emley had a cross deflected onto the bar whilst Askern lost a little discipline seeing 2 players cautioned.

Within minutes of the resumption Mark Stuart added his name to the list of scorers. Ingham had worked hard and created a one on one opportunity with the Askern keeper, who blocked the ball to the edge of the box. Seeing the keeper well off his line Stuart half volleyed the ball over the stranded keeper into the empty Askern goal.

Stuart was again in on the action forcing an excellent tip over save from the Askern Keeper. Into the last quarter of the game Askern started to knock the ball about well. An excellent move that started with the keeper resulted in a break down the right wing. The ball was centred to be met by Wilkinson. His shot was parried by Clarke who was unable to prevent the ball from trickling along the line and into the net off the post. The Emley keeper the much the quieter of the two made an excellent one handed save diving to his left into the last 5 minutes to push the ball past the post for a corner.

Max Joice topped another excellent performance with a 35 yard shot that was brilliantly tipped over the bar in the last minute. He very much deserved the man of the match award from a hastily formed committee on the half way line. Marc Townsend worked his socks off from start to finish and on any other day would have got the nod from the Emley supporters.

The Askern keeper had a really good game and did nothing wrong, making some excellent saves throughout the game. Overall the whole team put in an excellent performance to keep the momentum going in the push for promotion.

Emley Man of the Match – Max Joice.

Emley: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Stuart, Marsh, Hazelden, Scully, Townsend, Ingham, Kenworthy, Amos. Subs Garside, Ried, Robinson.

AFC Emley 2 – 1 Brighouse Town FC. NCEL 1, Saturday 5^th of December 2009.

Passing Football Did The Trick.

After a generally uninspiring first 45 minutes, Emley were shocked into playing attractive passing football to beat a dogged Brighouse team. Goals from Mark Stuart in reply to a Danny Toronczak opener and a clinical finish from Steve Kenworthy secured the points.

Both teams were up for the challenge in what was an important game for both teams in the race for promotion. Marc Townsend made an excellent challenge on Wayne Crossley within the first 2 minutes, the former player reacted badly. The referee inexplicably chose to show both players a yellow card. Within the first ten minutes Lee Hill witnessed a shot go wide of the post whilst Kenworthy was unlucky when the visitor’s keeper Williams fumbled a low shot that went just wide of his post. In the same period Brighouse were restricted to shots from just within the Emley half. Their first chance of any note came after 15 minutes when Crossley broke down the right wing and bearing down on gaol his shot from a tight angle was blocked out for a corner.

Only minutes later Lee Burgess shot well wide of the Emley goal from a very good position. What was apparent at this stage was that Emley were winning very little ball in the air against a tall strong opposition.

Lee Hill was to see another shot go wide of the post following good work from captain Kenworthy. With half an hour gone Mick Amos shot from 40 yards to produce an excellent tip over the bar from Williams. Craig Wilkinson chased what looked like a ball going out of play, controlled it and rounded the Brighouse defender on the dead ball line. He pulled the ball back to Kenworthy on the edge of the 6 yard box; unselfishly he squared the ball to Hill who from 4 yards out rattled the crossbar.

Brighouse made the perfect start to the second half. Marsh and Joice went up for the high ball in midfield resulting in a ball squirted down the wing. The ball was run to the by-line and centred for Toronczak unmarked at the back post directed his header perfectly into the corner of the goal.

For the next 15 minutes Brighouse totally dominated the game, with Emley continuing to play the unproductive highball. Matthew Highgate created another great opportunity for the visitors when his break down the left wing resulted in a powerful drive across the box that the home defence managed to put out for a corner. This appeared to be the catalyst that Emley needed to start playing football on the ground.

Kenworthy picked up the ball on the right wing, he jinked past two defenders and squared the ball for Antony Leech who's rising shot failed to trouble the keeper. Kenworthy again was the conduit in creating a further opportunity, shielding the ball well he turned and played an excellent through ball for Townsend, his shot went just wide of the left hand upright. Max Joice again playing at the top of his game made an excellent run down the left flank and his shot went wide of the same post.

Emley drew level on 70 minutes. The ball was played to Mick Amos on the wing, there followed a good interchange of one touch passes resulting in Mark Stuart with the ball in the semi-circle at the edge of the penalty area. With the outside of his foot he planted the ball into the left hand corner of the goal leaving the keeper rooted to the spot.

From the restart Emley continued to press, Kenworthy again played the ball perfectly for Townsend whose shot struck the left hand upright and careered across the goal and finally cleared to safety.

Despite the one way traffic Clarke was on his toes to block a shot from close range on 78 minutes. From the clearance Emley again mounted pressure through the midfield resulting in a foul on Kenworthy. Marc Townsend looked to be lining up for a direct shot when the ball was played short for him. Advancing on the penalty area his left foot shot flew over the keeper and smashed off the bar. Kenworthy picked up the ball in the box, took a touch and calmly beat the two defenders on the line to score.

Into the last 5 minutes Emley appeared to have settled for the result, and were lucky not to concede as a swirling cross bounced against the foot of the Emley post to be cleared for a corner.

The last half hour of the game Emley played really well, attacking football that Brighouse found difficult to contain. The standout performances for me were Max Joice, some crucial tackles throughout the game, and very dangerous when running out of defence, his distribution also excellent. Steve Kenworthy was an absolute menace to their defence and took his goal with composure. My man of the match was Marc Townsend, just what we needed in midfield.

Emley Man of the Match – Marc Townsend.

Emley: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Stuart, Marsh, Hazelden, Hill, Kenworthy, Wilkinson, Amos.

Subs, Ingham, Scully, Garside.

Selby Town FC 5 – AFC Emley 0. Presidents Cup 2^nd Round. Tuesday 24^th of November 2009.

A terrible defensive performance was the basis for Emley’s exit from the Presidents Cup. Selby scored with their first attack and 4 more soft goals were to follow on night with the visitors creating very few scoring opportunities.

Without the influential midfielder Josh Wright who pictured up a serious ankle injury at the weekend, Manager Ian Banks brought in Josh Ingham who has impressed during his short substitute appearances over recent weeks. Emley Captain Kenworthy was rested on the bench alongside Marc Townsend. Mark Brady was restored to midfield, Craig Wilkinson started up front with Mick Amos. Martyn Scully started the game playing wide on the left wing.

The travelling supporters were optimistic after the opening 5 minutes, the visitors dominated the possession spraying the ball around on the excellent surface, showing no signs of waterlogging that had postponed the game 7 days previously. With just 2 minutes gone a dead ball kick from within the Selby area was fired at Wilkinson who had a clear run at goal. He was unable to make the most of the home side’s benevolence and his weak shot was easily saved.

With just 6 minutes on the board the Emley manager was fuming, Selby were to take the lead in their first attack of the game. A break down the right wing and the ball centred, striking the heel of an Emley defender. The ball lifted lovely for Selby’s Steve Lyon to half volley into the net past the rooted Clarke.

With 18 minutes elapsed a Selby corner was floated across and Selby won 2 uncontested headers, the second met by Duncan Bray who placed the ball into the corner of the net. Emley did create a number of opportunities throughout the half. Mark Bray had a shot well held following good work in holding the ball up by Wilkinson. On 34 minutes Scully had the best opportunity of the half for the visitors, Wilkinson again had a part to play in putting Scully past the offside trap. His shot unfortunately lacked any power and was easily scooped up by Adam Mitchell.

Going into the break Emley had certainly not been outplayed, just defended poorly and not made the most of the chances presented to them. Max Joice had looked particularly effective when going forward with the ball.

The contest was effectively over within 2 minutes of the restart, a free kick from just within the Emley half was floated to the back post. A weak defensive header fell within 6 yard box and Lyon claimed his second with a powerful shot that gave Clarke no chance.

In a rare foray forward Wilkinson controlled the ball and turned on the edge of the box, his shot left the home keeper rooted to the spot as the ball cannoned back off the crossbar and was cleared for a corner.

With 11 minutes of the game remaining all 3 Emley substitutes were used, including Jordan Robinson who replaced Mick Clarke in the Emley goal. It would be a game that Robinson will hopefully quickly erase from his memory, on 83 a cross / shot was swung in using the wind by, misjudging the flight Robinson made a save which was adjudged to have crossed the line to make it 4- 0. Into the last minute of normal time a further corner swung under the bar was palmed into the far corner of the net from the glove of Robinson, giving Lyon his hatrick.

Emley perhaps showed their intentions towards this competition with the prolific Kenworthy and hard working Townsend starting on the bench. There were although positives to be taken from the game. Josh Ingham had a few moments early on but played well with Mark Stuart in midfield. This could be his real chance to make an impact with Josh Wright out. Max Joice had a massive game, he was determined and passionate in everything he did.

Let’s hope that the watching Brighouse manager gets a shock on Saturday when the real Emley turn up and play in a manner which we know they can.

Emley: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Stuart, Marsh, Hazelden, Ingham, Brady, Wilkinson, Scully, Amos. Subs Kenworthy, Townsend, Robinson.

AFC Emley 2 – Glashoughton Welfare 0. Saturday 21st of November 2009

Footy Is Fun - Not in That Weather!

Early goals from Josh Wright and Sean Hazelden were enough to secure the points against a resurgent Glasshoughton side in rapidly deteriorating conditions at the Welfare Ground.

Manager Ian Banks fielded the exact same side including substitutes that were defeated at Tadcaster 7 days previously. In contrast Glasshoughton were without key players, missing Nathen Hazelden in defence and Rob Malone up front.

Glasshoughton’s injury problems worsened when they lost Darren Fletcher and James Flowers within the first 18 minutes of the game. During that period Emley were to be 2 goals to the good. Mark Stuart forced a good save from Sykes in the Glasshoughton goal, he picked up the ball at the edge of the box and his powerful drive was parried over the bar for a corner kick. From the corner Stuart delivered the cross which was cleared to the edge of the box, under pressure Josh Wright struck the ball sweetly and staying below knee height and taking two minor deflections bulged the back of the net.

Mick Amos wearing the captain’s armband against his former club, made a smart turn and run from the half way line provided the regular captain Kenworthy with a shooting opportunity from a tight angle. His shot from the edge of the 6 yard box was met by a diving punch from Sykes down to his left.

On 16 minutes Emley doubled their lead, Kenworthy was brought down 20 yards out, allowing the big central defenders Hazelden and Marsh to come forward. Stuart took the freekick that was cleared back to him, looking up he picked out the run of Hazelden perfectly. Rising above the defender he simply redirected the ball into the top corner with a deft header.

Emley continued to boss the game to such an extent that Glasshoughton’s first shot on target came on 29 minutes, a strike that Mick Clarke easily held. Lee Hill suffering from a neck complaint was replaced on 34 minutes by Martyn Scully in midfield.

The crowd of over 100 were waiting in trepidation on 38 minutes as to what colour card the referee would produce to a clumsy challenge from Emley keeper Clarke. Kurtis Noble had made the best of poor play in midfield to a ball that broke deep into the Emley half. Clarke rushing out from his goal was beaten to the ball and in an effort to clear collided with Noble. Referee Russell Tarbatt adjudged that there were 2 covering defenders and produced a yellow.

Prior to the break Kenworthy produced an excellent ball into the near post for Amos, who lunging for the ball he directed the ball wide of the post.

During the half time break the weather deteriorated further, so much so I went to the cafe and asked the ladies how much they would charge me if I could put my hands in the oven.

The weather did very little to help the style of passing football that suits the Emley, the weather didn’t stop the visitors from creating 2 chances within the first 5 minutes of the restart. Former Emley player Mugadze on the right wing was an avenue much used by Glasshoughton. His fine runs just lacked the killer ball into the box.

Craig Wilkinson came onto replace Kenworthy with 70 minutes played and was to have the best Emley opportunity of the half. Scully and Amos linked up well on the half way line and fine through ball saw Wilkinson one on one with the keeper. Sykes produced a fine save with his legs.

Glasshoughton on the other hand were to create a further 3 chances, Max Joice made an excellent interception at the back post following a Mugadze cross. Clarke was forced into two save at his left hand post from shots from both Clapham and Mugadze.

Emley started really brightly and I thought we might get a few today. The second half performance was very much one of containment. The only Emley player that really stood out for me today was Max Joice playing at fullback.

Emley Man of Match – Joice.

Team: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Wright, Marsh, Hazelden, Townsend, Stuart, Kenworthy, Hill, Amos. Subs: Wilkinson, Ingham, Scully .

14/11/09
Tadcaster Albion 2-1 AFC Emley
NCEL Division One
Emley slipped to defeat in the mud at Tadcaster Albion this and missed out on their chance to overtake the league leaders. In an entertaining game both sides were intent on playing good football despite dreadful weather conditions.

Emley had the best of the possession in the first half but were unable to break down Albion’s defence, regarded by Emley manager Ian Banks to be the best in the league. Tadcaster forced a few early corners, one of which resulted in a goal line clearance to prevent an own goal.

After 15 minutes Josh Wright hit the post with a shot from the edge of the box following a corner. At the other end of the field Whitehead was denied by a brilliant save by Mick Clarke after 24 minutes. Constant Emley pressure towards half time meant Albion were unable to get the ball out of their half. Only thanks to last ditch defending, a goal line clearance and a couple of Ryder saves did the game remain goalless.

Albion took the lead on 55 minutes through Braithwaite with an effort from the right. Three minutes later, Emley were back in the game after Albion had lost possession on the half way line, an attack and left wing cross from Emley, which Albion were unable to clear fell to Mark Stuart who scored from 8 yards. Albion regained the lead after 63 minutes when Brandon's shot was spilled by the keeper and Jeff fired the loose ball into the net from 6 yards.

Tadcaster created numerous chances to get a third goal, with Whitehead having a couple of efforts and Downing and Brandon both having shots saved. Late in the game Emley pushed forward in search of an equaliser but the Albion defence stood firm under pressure.

11/11/09
AFC Emley 2 -1 Worksop Town
Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup 2nd Round

AFC Emley recorded a stunning 2-1 victory over Unibond Premier side Worksop Town to progress to the semi finals of the Sheffield and Hallamshire Senior Cup. The visitors are 3 leagues above Emley and put out a strong side against Emley who were without Sean Hazelden and Max Joice.

Before the game a minutes silence was impeccably observed in memory of Peter Maude the Wakefield FC President who sadly died this week.

Emley started the game well playing good passing football but the first chance of the game fell to Worksop’s centre forward Andy White but Mick Clark saved well at the near post. At the other end of the field Emley captain Steve Kenworthy carved out a couple of long range efforts which were efficiently dealt with by the Worksop ‘keeper John Kennedy.

Mick Amos came close to breaking the deadlock on 17 minutes after being played in by Kenworthy but Kennedy saved well. White then had a great chance to put Worksop in front after springing Emley’s offside trap but scuffed his shot into the relieved Clarkes.

Emley took the lead a minute later when Lee Hill - who deputised excellently for Sean Hazelden at centre half - hit a long range free kick from inside his own half into the Worksop penalty area. Under pressure from Amos, Kennedy punched the ball into the path of Kenworthy who finished coolly to notch his 12 goal of the season.

Minutes later, Emley hit Worksop on the counter attack and Mick Amos once again had Kennedy at full stretch to force his shot out for a corner. From the resulting corner Craig Marsh went agonisingly close when his well taken header rattled the woodwork.

Worksop responded but were guilty of wasting opportunities and took a couple of wayward corner kicks. Emley’s back for held firm and special praise should be given to Josh Ingham who put in a tremendous performance at right back. He was tough in the tackle but also played some tremendous cross field balls to set up attacks at the other end of the field.

Amos double Emley’s lead on 42 minutes after great work by Kenworthy holding the ball up outside the penalty area then playing in his strike partner who had the space and time to slot the ball past Kennedy. The closest that Worksop came to getting a goal was on the stroke of half time when a speculative lofted cross from Ryan Hindley out on the touchline drifted over Clarkes head and hit the bar.

The second half began with Emley creating a string of chances. Once again the outstanding Kenworthy was at the heart of the action causing problems for the Worksop defence with his pace and creating great chances for Amos and Marc Townsend who both went close with headers.

Against the run of play Worksop clawed a goal back on 67 minutes as the defence gave substitute Matt Glass too much space in the penalty area with Clark unable to keep his shot out. Hindley then went close as Worksop looked to grab an equaliser but Clark dealt with his angled shot well.

Ingham was cruelly booked with about 15 minutes to go when he looked to have won a challenge cleanly. He responded a minute later by playing a brilliant crossfield ball to Kenworthy out wide who then played a neat one-two with Gavin Armitage (on as a substitute for Mark Brady) before hitting a teasing cross to Townsend who headed agonisingly just wide of the post.

Manager Ian Banks replaced Kenworthy and Ingham with fresh legs in the shape of Alex Thomas and Max Joice as he looked to preserve his lead – both players left the field to great appreciation from the Emley faithful. Townsend who took the captains armband from Kenworthy went close again a minute later after neatly going past the Worksop left back but his well hit shot flashed across the face of goal.

Emley had a scare just before full time as Mick Clarke did well to punch a corner clear then courageously dived to his left to tip a goalbound shot round the post. As the clock ticked down Thomas raced onto a long ball into the corner and delivered an almost perfect pass to Amos who was unable to connect.

Seconds later referee Alan Hull who marshalled the game well blew his whistle for full time and Emley celebrated a famous victory. They now turn their attentions to another tough task in the shape of NCEL leaders Tadcaster Albion who they visit on Saturday.

Emley:
Clark, Ingham (Joice), Leech, Wright, Marsh, Hill, Townsend, Brady (Armitage), Kenworthy (Thomas), Stuart, Amos.

Attendance 130

AFC Emley 1 Bottesford Town 1 . Saturday 24^th October 2009

Poor Finishing Costs Emley More Points.

In a game that Emley created all but three of the goal scoring opportunities they will be upset not to have avenged the earlier defeat by Bottesford. Craig Marsh gave Emley the lead following some excellent one touch football. A contentious penalty brought the scores level. Bottesford were reduced to 10 men following a deliberate handball on the goal line. Unfortunately Emley were unable to convert the subsequent penalty.

Emley were forced into a late change with Lee Hill being absent through illness, Marc Townsend again started at right back with Max Joice starting the game on the bench. Craig Wilkinson started the game up front with Captain Steve Kenworthy.

The opening 15 minutes of the game were evenly contested. Josh Nodder looked odds on to open the scoring; picking up the ball on the half way line his strong run into the box was made easier by some excellent dummy runs from both Wilkinson and Kenworthy. His strong shot was well saved by the Bottesford keeper’s legs. From the subsequent corner Emley players and supporters were claiming a goal following a headed clearance from a Craig Marsh shot. Moments later at the other end Mark Stuart also made a goal line clearance for a headed corner.

Kenworthy was seeing plenty of the ball and had a couple of shots that lacked any great power and were easily saved by Nicholson. Josh Wright having a much better game in the midfield read a dangerous back pass well within the Bottesford penalty area. Beating 2 defenders he will be upset that his curling shot to the far post didn’t open the scoring when well placed.

Within 3 minutes of the restart Craig Marsh gave Emley the lead, a corner was squared to the edge of the box for Wright, his shot was well blocked and the ball fell for Townsend, his shot looked to be going wide. Kenworthy’s touch was amazing as he controlled the fierce shot, playing a neat one touch football the ball was laid out to Marsh at the back post taking one touch he shot powerfully into the far corner of the net.

The lead only lasted 2 minutes, on a rare Bottesford attack Clarke was adjudged to have brought down an attacker with the ball looking to be going dead. Paul Chatterton stepped up and confidently sent Clarke the wrong way to equalise.

Townsend won a free kick following a poor challenge resulting in the booking of Bottesford’s captain Rowland. The free kick rebounded off the wall, falling to Stuart whose shot was placed just wide of the post. Just minutes later Bottesford’s Mitchell also found himself in the referees notebook for another poor challenge on Townsend on the edge of the penalty area. Nodder took the free kick which was floated towards the keeper; Hazelden challenged well causing the keeper to flap the ball towards the top corner of the goal. With the ball having looked to have already crossed the line Mitchell was adjudged to have handled to ball to clear. For this he was given a straight red, many supporters believed that it had been given to the wrong player. Josh Nodder placed the ball on the spot and his well struck shot went over the bar and crashed back off the stand.

With 70 minutes gone Max Joice replaced Mark Brady allowing Townsend into midfield. This worked well with Joice getting forward into the extra spaced afforded by the dismissal.

Clarke made an excellent save low down to his left hand post following a good turn and shot from Bottesford’s Chatterton. Emley continued to press and a couple of searching crosses evaded the Emley attackers. Oliver Gage replaced Nodder as did Mick Amos for Townsend. Into the 4 minutes of allotted injury time Josh Wright did well beating 3 players in the box his shot from a tight angle was deflected just wide of the post. Amos did well to hook his foot around a cross forcing a save from Nicholson in what was the last action of the game.

Emley Man of the Match – Wright.

Team: Clarke, Townsend, Leech, Wright, Marsh, Hazelden, Stuart, Brady, Kenworthy, Wilkinson, Nodder. Subs : Gage, Amos, Joice

AFC Emley 1 – Leeds Carnegie 1. Saturday 10^th of October 2009

Football at its’ Best - By Martin Wharam

Emley Debutant Joshua Wright scored a screamer on his debut, but Emley were pegged back by a second half goal from the visitors. Emley earned a very good point in what was an entertaining game of passing football.
Leeds Carnegie joined the NCEL at the same time as Emley and previous encounters have always been played in a good spirit, with both teams wanting to play attacking passing football. Carnegie were very impressive today, keeping possession well and mounting good flowing attacks at every opportunity.
Carnegie started the game very well, the ever dangerous Chilaka forcing a goal line clearance within the opening two minutes having got behind the Emley defence. Cooper was also to present the Emley defence with problems, finding himself in good space within the box he fired wide with less than 10 minutes gone. The same player was to force an excellent reaction save out of Clarke only minutes later.
It wasn’t until the 23^rd minute that Emley found their feet and replicated their opponents passing football. Josh Wright found the feet of Kenworthy. His first touch brought the ball under control and played in the onrushing Hill whose dipping shot marginally cleared the crossbar with the Carnegie keeper well out of his ground.
Carnegie continued to press and had a further 2 good opportunities to take the lead prior to new singing Wright scoring a memorable half volley on 25 minutes. Townsend’s corner kick was spread to the edge of the box towards the advancing Wright. The ball took a terrible bounce, but Wright met the ball on the full and the ball screamed into the top left corner of the net with the defence and keeper watching helplessly.
The last action of the half resulted in another fine save from Clarke diving to his right to block a powerful shot from inside the penalty area.
Carnegie started the second half very well, despite having lost the influential Cooper at the break to injury. For the first 5 minutes Emley saw very little of the ball with Carnegie knocking the ball about well. Despite this it was Emley who were to create the best chance of the second period. Joice won a hard fought ball on the flank and played the ball to the feet of Kenworthy, the defensive challenge saw the ball break kindly to Hill. He dinked the ball outside for Kenworthy who centred the ball perfectly on to the head of Nodder who was unable to keep the ball below the height of the crossbar. Emley looked dangerous on the counter attack playing some very attractive football engineered well by both Wright and Brady in midfield.
On 65 minutes Carnegie levelled the score, Chiltern on as sub was to cause the Emley defence lots of problems, made a strong run down the right flank. Without apparently beating any Emley defender he was allowed to run to the edge of the 6 yard box and drove a shot across to the far post to score.
Carnegie were unlucky not to take the lead on 71 minutes, Alex Smith wearing the captains armband played a deft one two and his strong run put him in behind the home defence. He crossed the ball which dropped lovely to Chiltern at the back post who drilled the ball against the Emley post. Clarke was then forced to make a good save at the feet of Chilaka when through one on one.
Banks introduced all 3 substitutes over a 6 minute period into the last 16 minutes of the game, but this did little to counter the threat of Carnegie. Clarke secured his man of the match performance with 4 minutes of regulation time left. A rising shot from the edge of the box looked set for the same quadrant as Wrights opener. Clarke flung himself to his right and pushed the ball onto the post and back into play. Although the follow up ended in the net an offside decision was given.
Emley were to have the last 2 chances of the game. Hill brought a good tip over from Giles in the visitor’s goal, this from an excellent Gage cross. Hill was also unlucky to see a good header deflected over from a Townsend corner.
I could quite happily watch games like this week in week out; some very high quality football was played. Carnegie has easily been the best opponents I have watched this season.

Some really good performances throughout the team, Clarke was highly impressive, Marsh also stood out as did Leech again in defence. Congratulations to Wright for his performance also.

Emley Man of Match – Clarke.
Team: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Wright, Marsh, Hazelden, Townsend, Brady, Kenworthy,Hill, Nodder. Subs Gage, Stuart, Amos .

AFC Emley 3 – Yorkshire Main 0. Wednesday 8^th of October 2009

Through to the next round of the cup.

Stand in manager Grant Crookes will be pleased with the result, especially with the performance of the squad players brought in to contest the Sheffield Cup competition. Goals from Townsend, Hill and Kenworthy secured progress against a competent Yorkshire Main side.

Emley started brightly and signalled their intention to play attractive football when Kenworthy picked up the ball and had the first shot of the game on 3 minutes. The visitors also demonstrated how quick they were also on the break, Mannifield was a continual danger, often storming forward from deep within his own half.

Yorkshire Main should have taken the lead with 15 minutes gone. Jordan Robinson replacing Clarke in the Emley goal spilled the ball having initially seemingly collected the ball well at the edge of the box. The ball was squared and the resulting shot looked a certain goal before Hazelden’s goal line clearance.

A minute later Townsend was to start a move that was to see him score. Picking up the ball on the left flank, he found Kenworthy further down the same side. He made ground to the dead ball line and laid a beautifully weighted pass into the box for the run of Townsend ,whose shot was drilled into the net.

From the kick off Yorkshire Main should have levelled, having got around the back of the Emley defence and just the keeper to beat the shot was pulled across the face of goal from a tight angle. Kenworthy who was causing no end of problems for the visitors was to strike the both sidenettings within 2 minutes from powerful shots.

Robinson made a good save on the half hour, a deep cross from the right wing was met with a strong header at the back post and look set for the top corner of the Emley net. The keeper got across well and blocked the ball out for a corner. Yorkshire Main further worked the Emley stopper into the last 5 minutes of the half, who got across well to his left to save a well hit shot from just inside the box.

The second half started in the same vein as the first with both teams looking to play attacking football. Yorkshire main created the first opportunity of the half on 52 minutes with a shot just wide of the left hand post.

Amos and Stuart made way for Hill and Gage on the hour mark and both were to make an impact on the game. Gage playing as an attacking winger provided a lovely diagonal ball into the box for Townsend who pulled his shot narrowly past the far post with the keeper beaten. Kenworthy was becoming increasingly unplayable, his jinking runs and clever dummies creating opportunities for Hill and Townsend.

Emley extended their lead on 71 minutes, a deep ball that looked destined for Kenworthy’s feet was allowed to run through to Hill. A neat one two saw the same player with just the keeper to beat, with the outside of his foot he placed the ball into the left corner of the net.

Yorkshire Main were to create one further chance, a shot from a tight angle was parried for a corner by Robinson. Into the last minute Kenworthy got the goal he deserved, Gage drove a cross into the box from the flank. Kenworthy met the cross at the near post, controlled a difficult ball and turned his defender. A shot across the goal hit the far post and nestled in the net.

Playing injury time the visitors were guilty of spoiling a very good performance with 2 shocking challenges on Kenworthy on the wing in the same incident. The Yorkshire Main captain was booked as a result and was lucky to stay on the field. It was a shame that the game should end in such a way as the visitors had won many admirers with their style of football and competitiveness.

Antony Leech was brilliant in the first half, but Kenworthy’s performance rightfully won him my man of the match.

Team: Robinson, Reid, Leech, Garside, Marsh, Hazelden, Townsend, Stuart, Kenworthy, Amos, Armitage. Subs Gage, Greene,Hill.

Eccleshill United 1 - AFC Emley 1. Saturday 3^rd October 2009

Dreadful Conditions – Dreadful Performance.

An early goal from Oliver Gage gave Emley the lead at bottom club Eccleshill, they then failed to cope with the windy conditions and conspired to concede a poor goal on 11 minutes for the equaliser.
Ian Banks must have gone to sleep Friday night pleasantly content with the world. Key players were welcomed back into a strong side who had comprehensively taken apart Frodingham last week. He awoke with a wind blowing threatening to challenge the scoring on the Beaufort Scale, last minute withdrawals, hat trick Hill cursed with a tonsillitis, the reserve team having left for their match and a suspension. I am sure that he did not envisage having to name himself on the bench for the game.
Playing with the wind advantage and the slope in the first half Oliver Gage opened the scoring with just 3 minutes gone. Townsend took a throw in which Kenworthy took and turned. The ball was half cleared to the edge of the box and Gage hit the ball low and hard into the bottom left corner from just outside the box.
Eccleshill were to play much better than Emley into the wind, and on 9 minutes were unlucky not to score as the ball pinballed around the 6 yard box before being cleared away for a corner. Minutes later they were to score, a ball was pinged into the box and Clarke in the goal at full stretch was only able to parry the ball which fell nicely to an Eccleshill player who faced with an open goal made no mistake.
Emley then created a number of chances and again were guilty of lacking a clinical finish in front of goal. Just before the half hour Kenworthy held the ball up well in midfield, he turned and floated a lovely ball over the last defender for Townsend to chase. The keeper made ground out his goal and got down well to block Townsend’s shot. The ball fell kindly for Emley on the rebound and the next shot was easily pouched by the Home side keeper. Mick Amos returning to the side upfront played a lovely one two with the Kenworthy but was unable to get the ball out from under his feet and his weak shot was easily saved.
In the following minute Kenworthy was supplied with an excellent ball from a flick from Townsend, his touch took him around the keeper and his goal bound shot was deflected desperately onto the bar and clear from an Eccleshill defender.
Emley started the second half poorly and made no impression whatsoever in the Eccleshill half. In contrast the home team was using the wind at every opportunity. With 65 minutes gone Ingham and Gage made way for Hill and Stuart.
It wasn’t until the 75^th minute that Emley created their first chance of the half. Green made good ground down the left, his cross was deflected to the back post where Amos had a free header and most of the goal to aim at. The home keeper was able to watch the ball sail over the bar.
Into the last quarter it was the home team that looked more like scoring, Clarke was forced into 2 late serves when one on one with the Eccleshill attackers.
This was very poor performance from a much changed Emley side, the conditions were terrible, but ultimately it was the same for both sides.
Emley Man of Match – Townsend.
Team: Clarke, Gage, Joice, Green, Ingham, Firth, Hazelden, Brady, Kenworthy, Amos, Townsend Subs : Hill, Stuart, Banks.

Appleby-Frodingham Fc 1 - AFC Emley 4. Saturday 26^th September 2009

Hill hat trick caps a brilliant Emley performance.
Lee Hill started the game with only 2 hours sleep having worked through the night in Birmingham, despite this his first was brilliantly placed into the corner from a tight angle. His second and third were absolute screamers.
The visitors line up was yet again ravaged by injuries, despite this Banks was still able to put out a side that dominated the game against the team that started third in the league.
Lee Hill playing up front alongside Kenworthy had the first chance of the game with just 2 minutes on the clock. Good play in the build up saw the ball at Hill’s feet just inside the box. He curled his shot just wide of the right hand post. Emley were dominating in midfield, both Gage and Leech were finding space on the wings and feeding balls into Kenworthy and Hill with regularity. Once such interchange down the left wing saw the ball squared for Kenworthy who lifted his shot just over the bar.
With 14 minutes on the clock another quick Emley attack saw a ball seemingly heading to the feet of Kenworthy, he cleverly dummied the ball which ran through perfectly for Hill. Forced wide to the left of goal Hill controlled the ball and from a tight angle shot across the face of goal and the ball nestled into the far right corner of the net.
Emley dominated the remainder of the first half. The back four had competently snuffed out the majority of the Frodingham attacks until 5 minutes before half time. A long ball down the right flank was picked up well and a swinging cross was put in behind two Emley defenders. Bettney timed his run perfectly and smashed a half volley into the wide open net. Clarke in the Emley goal who had very much been a spectator found his first act was to pick the goal out of the net.
The second half started with Josh Nodder replacing Gavin Armitage who had taken a knock. With just 4 minutes elapsed Emley regained the lead. Hill picked up the ball into the last third, beat a defender which forced him to the right of centre. He then struck the ball sweetly and it flew 25 yards into the top left corner of the net with the home keeper rooted to the spot.
Emley extended their lead on 56 minutes, Emley won a free kick on the left flank, Nodder swung in a tantalising cross that fell perfectly onto the foot of Craig Marsh at the back post and he made no mistake with a volley into the net.
Almost on the restart Hill, found himself in similar territory in the attacking third of the pitch, making the most of the space allowed of him, he moved forward and again from 25 yards this time smashed another shot into the bottom right corner of the net past the despairing dive of Loperfido.
Emley were then guilty of not extending the score further, Kenworthy working tirelessly timed his run onto a through ball well. He rounded the keeper but was forced wide, his shot looked goal bound when a desperate header cleared for a corner.
Hill won the ball well just into the Frodingham half, Kenworthy picked the ball up and did look offside in doing so. He advanced with just the keeper to beat, and attempted to square the ball to Hill and the ball was collected easily by the keeper.
Nodder was at the end of a shocking challenge on the wing, having played a long ball down the wing to Hill he was crudely chopped down. Playing advantage Hill squared the ball into the box for Kenworthy, he looked favourite to score but an excellent defensive challenge from behind saw the ball go wide. Hill continued to be the star of the show, coming deep to collect the ball he was playing some excellent one touch football. A couple of deft flicks could have easily led to more Emley goals.
Manager Banks made full use of the bench bringing Green and Clayton on for Firth and Hill respectively. Josh Nodder should take confidence from his second half performance, he deftly played in Garside who had made a good run from midfield, and his subsequent shot was just wide of the post. Nodder could have stole the show with just 5 minutes to go, winning a header just into the Frodingham half he advanced onto the bouncing ball and his half volleyed shot from 35 yards looped over the stranded keeper and cannoned back off the bar. Clayton was to have the final chance, on reflection he may have rushed his lob with just the keeper to beat as the ball sailed over the bar.
This was an excellent performance which brought a smile to the good number of travelling supporters. Hill stood out, but this was an excellent team performance, Ingham had a good game and showed plenty of bite in midfield. When the injured players return I’m sure Banger will have some selection headaches.
Emley Man of Match – Lee Hill.
Team: Clarke, Gage, Leech, Ingham, Firth, Hazelden, Marsh, Garside, Hill, Kenworthy, Armitage. Subs : Clayton, Nodder, Green.

Wednesday 23rd September 2009
AFC Emley 2-1 Askern Villa - NCEL Presidents Cup 1st Round

AFC Emley got back to winning ways with a hard fought win over Askern Villa in the Presidents Cup. This was Emley’s second victory over Askern in the space of a month but both sides featured much changed sides giving fringe players a start.

Emley gave debuts to recently signed pair Craig Marsh and Danny Campbell with Jamie Clayton drafted in from the reserves up front in place of Mick Amos. Oli Gage came in at right back for the injured Matt Higginbotham.

Whilst the game lacked the importance of the league clash earlier in the season it was certainly a fiery affair. Just two minutes into the game Emley captain Steve Kenworthy was hauled down on the edge of the box after being through clear on goal with only the keeper to beat. Lee Hill curled in the resultant free kick but Liam Scully saved well for the visitors.

Ten minutes later Gav Armitage’s long range shot was charged down by the Askern defeat and Anthony Leech flashed a menacing shot just wide. Askern responded with their captain Mark Vickerage twice going close with a close range header and a speculative shot.

Emley continued to press forward with Kenworthy providing a constant threat to the visiting defence – on 20 minutes he played a sweet through ball to Marc Stuart whose close range effort was parried away by Scully. Emley were rewarded for their efforts from the resulting corner as Armitages kick was flicked on by Hill for Marsh to finish with a powerful header.

Minutes later Armitage who was at the heart of most of Emley’s attacking play nearly doubled the lead as he burst through the Askern defence only to be denied by a last ditch challenge deflecting his shot wide.

Soon after Askern centre forward Dean Wilburn was sent off for what appeared to be dissent to the referee firstly receiving a yellow card then moments later a straight red. Askern are without one of the NCEL’s better footballing sides but are let down too often by their indiscipline – more of which later.

Emley were unable to increase their advantage in the first half with their best opportunity coming on 40 minutes when Hill’s header was cleared of the bar from an Armitage corner, Sean Hazelden then headed the rebound against the bar before Clayton was finally blocked out by more last ditch defending.

The second half got off to a flying start with Hill hitting the side netting with a long range shot before Mick Clarke saved well from James Naylor at the other end of the field.

Despite being reduced to ten men Askern excerpted pressure on Emley’s defence and were finally rewarded on 65 minutes when Naylor exploited some slack defending to slot home coolly past Clarke.

Chasing the victory Manager Ian Banks shuffled his line up bringing on Gareth Garside (another debutant) for Mark Stuart and pushed Gavin Armitage up front alongside Kenworthy and with Luke Firth following soon after replacing Gage at right back.

Emley regained their lead with about 10 minutes remaining when Anthony Leeched chipped the ball over the Askern defence to Armitage who broke clear putting in a perfect cross for Clayton who placed a confident header past Scully at the far post.

The goal sparked a final fightback from Askern with Clarke saving well from Vickerage once again and Naylor going close with a speculative shot which went just over the bar. Vickerage was also unlucky to be judged offside with only Clarke to beat.

Banks came onto the field for the final minutes of the game in sweeper role to try and steady the ship with keeper Scully moving upfield for Askern to assist his sides attack. Eventually Askerns threat imploded with two heavy challenges on Leech in as many minutes leading to a booking to Naylor then a straight red card for Luke Atkinson. Emley kept their heads and held firm – they now face a visit to Premier Division side Selby Town in the next round.

Emley: Clarke, Gage (Firth 75), Leech, Hill, Marsh, Hazelden, Stuart (Garside 65), Campbell (Banks 86), Kenworthy, Clayton, Armitage.

AFC Emley 2 – Alsager Town 3. Saturday 19^th September 2009

Hopes Dashed in Just 8 Minutes.
Emley were dumped out of the FA Vase despite leading 2 - 1 with just 3 minutes or normal time remaining.
Emley were able to field a strong side, the main absentee being Max Joice out with an ankle injury, Luke Firth started the game in central defence. The opening minutes were evenly contested, with both teams willing to throw players into flowing attacks. Kenworthy had the first shot on target the Emley captain worked hard and shielded the ball the ball well, his well struck shot was well saved by the Alsager keeper Langley down to his left. Hill looked well placed 5 minutes later, a break down the right by Sidebottom saw a powerful cross pass desperately close to Hills head with just the keeper to beat.
Emley were not having it all their own way, Alsager looked competent on the break and were winning corner after corner. With 15 minutes on the clock Clarke palmed away a high inswinging corner and the ball fell nicely Jones whose half volley caused the supporters behind the goal more trouble than the Emley keeper.
Banks was forced into making a change with just 18 minutes played. Mark Stuart replaced Sidebottom who having fallen awkwardly appeared to have injured his left knee.
Emley were soon trailing, Townsend made a good run down the right flank, he was brought to the ground by the defender. The referee waved play on and Alsager made the most of the break with Wilson down the flank. A defensive stumble assisted his cause and he fired a shot across Clarke into the bottom corner.
Emley continued to create chances, following a corner the ball was partially cleared, a speculative shot from the edge of the box cannoned high off a defender and Hazelden found himself one on one with the keeper who made a brave save at his feet.
Into the second half Clarke was called into action almost immediately, presented with a free header in the 6 yard box the visitors attackers effort was weak and easily grasped by Clarke.
Into the 53^rd minute Higginbottom took a long throw into the Alsager box, Hazelden got up well with the keeper and flicked the ball on to the back post. Kenworthy timed his run perfectly and headed the ball into the net at the back post.
This buoyed Emley who started to play attractive football. Leech was working hard on the wing linking up well with Kenworthy and Amos. Emley were to take the lead on 63 minutes, Kenworthy collected a ball deep into the Alsager half, turning inside he found Stuart who in turn picked out Townsend and then onto Leech. Hill was then provided with a lovely ball into the box beating the offside trap and he calmly placed the ball into the bottom right corner of the net.
In the remaining half an hour Emley were somewhat hanging on for the win, Emley’s only created 2 further chances. Kenworthy found Amos with a lovely flighted ball to put him the wrong side of the defender, His shot took a deflection and looked to be looping over Langley who did well to leap to his left and pluck the ball out of the air. Emley should have been awarded a penalty with 77 minutes gone, Josh Nodder on as a substitute made good ground into the box and his shot across the keeper was goal bound when a defenders hand deflected the ball out for a corner.
With 3 minutes remaining Emley conceded a poor free kick on the left corner of the box. The direct free kick went through a crowd of players and into the bottom corner of the goal. The referee found 4 minutes of injury time from somewhere and into the last minute a deep cross was well met by Whitney who steered his header into the top corner of the net.
A very disappointing result to a game that Emley were more than capable of winning, injuries to Sidebottom and Higginbottom will also cause manager Banks problems as they face Askern Villa midweek.
Emley Man of Match Anthony Leech.
Team: Clarke, Higginbotham, Leech, Townsend, Firth, Hazelden, Sidebottom, Hill, Kenworthy, Amos, Armitage. Subs Gage, Reilly, Stuart, Nodder, Robinson.

Monday 14th September 2009 - "Sign up for Sudders" Charity Game
AFC Emley 3 - 2 Huddersfield District League XI

AFC Emley got back to winning ways in Monday nights charity fixture against a strong Huddersfield District League XI. The match held in aid of the "Sign Up For Sudders" campaign was a great success financially and an exciting spectacle for the crowd of nearly 300 spectators.

The opening exchanges of the game were fairly even with the League XI snuffing out most of the threat offered by Emley’s strikers Steve Kenworthy and Micky Amos. The match was on paper a friendly but both sides showed a strong desire to win the game which was reflected in a number of challenges which might have been punished with a card in a competitive game.

As the first half drew on Emley began to excerpt their authority and Kenworthy’s goal bound shot was deflected by a last ditch challenge after Josh Ingham had set him up with a delightful lob over the Leagues defence.

Tempers threatened to boil over just before the break after a crunching challenge on Anthony Leech but the referee sensibly blew his whistle for half time.

Emley started the second half well and had the ball in the net again after 47 minutes after Steve Kenworthy was ruled to have pushed the keeper when converting a corner.The match opened up in the final 20 minutes as both sides brought on a number of substitutes. Emley doubled their lead on 75 minutes when James Bowker making his first team debut headed home confidently from a terrific Gav Armitage cross.

The League XI responded 5 minutes late when Doran hit a speculative shot almost from the touchline with Emley's substitute 'keeper Jordan Robinson stranded. A couple of minutes earlier Robinson had foiled the same player tipping another long range effort onto the bar.

Emley's third and decisive goal came on 85 minutes when manager Ian Banks making a cameo appearance curled a stunning free kick round the wall and onto the crossbar with the keeper well beaten, the ball fell to captain Steve Kenworthy who made no mistake from 6 yards out.

The game was not over however as the League XI clawed a goal back a minute later after hitting the bar finally forcing the ball home to make the final score 3-2 to the hosts.

Emley are next in action on Saturday (kick off 3.00pm) when they face Alsager Town in the FA Vase 2^nd Qualifying Round.

Bottesford Town 1 – AFC Emley 0. Saturday 5^th September 2009

No Joy at Bottesford - First League Defeat Of The Season.

Emley suffered their first league defeat of the season at Bottesford, a Mitchell goal midway through the first half was enough to secure the points for “The Poachers.”
Emley manager Banks was forced into wholesale changes from the team that beat Worsbrough comfortably in midweek. Oliver Gage came in to the team having undergone a late fitness test, Joe Howson also started in the back line. Anthony Leech replaced the flu ridden Matt Higginbotham in central defence alongside Sean Hazelden. Other key players absent included Max Joice, Gavin Armitage, Mick Amos and Dean Sidebottom who grabbed two goals in midweek.
From the first whistle Bottesford took the game to Emley. On a breezy day the home team began by knocking the ball about well. On 3 minutes the ball broke free in midfield and speculative ball over the top saw Bottesford’s Jamie Leech with the ball at his feet on the edge of the box. His rushed shot was watched sail over by Clarke in the Emley goal. Within the opening 5 minutes the Emley defence was breached 3 times, greater composure on the ball could well have seen the visitors at least two down.
Marc Townsend was booked on 9 minutes for handball. Having worked hard in midfield, he spread the ball wide to Kenworthy on the flank he then centred the ball. Townsend who had continued his run into the penalty area met the ball with his hand inches in front of his face, the ball rattling off the bar.
Of the two teams it was Bottesford who looked the more likely to take the lead, the visitors were wasting good ball in midfield and making poor use of the dead ball kicks awarded to them. On 15 minutes a neat triangle through midfield again saw the Bottesford attackers with the ball at the edge of the box. Again the shot ballooned well over Clarke’s bar.
With a quarter of the game gone, Bottesford were finally to take the lead that they had deserved. A quick break down the left eventually saw the ball crossed into the box. Craig Mitchell grabbed his second goal of the season with a side foot shot into the bottom left corner of the net with Clarke well beaten.
On the restart Emley were immediately under pressure, a clumsy free kick was conceded centrally adjacent to the penalty box. The free kick was curled around the wall and Clarke sprung to his left managing to palm the ball onto the post and out for a corner.
Emley looked in disarray, unsure of who was supposed to be doing what, and far too often they were also guilty of wasting positions from dead balls. On 37 minutes Banks took decisive action with Gage and Green making way for Ingham and Riley. With the score the same at half time he also introduced Firth for the second half for the desperately unlucky Howson, who hobbled back to the bench after the break.
The changes and the break appeared to have done the trick for Emley. Nodder who had been mainly anonymous in the first half was seeing much more of the ball in midfield. On 57 minutes he picked up the ball in the last third, beat three players and from the dead ball line squared the ball into the 6 yard box. Nicholson in the Bottesford goal was forced to make a brave save at Kenworthy’s feet. Emley continued to pile on the pressure, Leech playing as a wingback was dangerous down the flank. Linking up well with Ingham following a Kenworthy flick he took the ball into the box and fired a shot into the side netting.
Bottesford although were causing Emley problems on the attack and should have scored just after the hour. A break down the left was flighted into the far post with two attackers waiting, confusion between them both allowed the excellent Hazelden to bundle the ball behind for a corner.
Almost immediately Kenworthy was presented with his best opportunity of the game, Nodder made good progress down the left wing, turning inside he played the ball square to the Emley front man. Kenworthy placed his shot just over the angle of bar and post with the travelling supporters willing it into the net. Five minutes later Kenworthy had yet another good opportunity to extend his goal tally. The battle scarred Hill flicked header found Nodder who played Kenworthy in down the right flank. He came inside and struck a powerful shot into the side netting.
With 75 minutes gone Clarke was again called into action. With the ball lost in midfield, Bottesford played some excellent one touch football to release their attacker one on one with Clarke. The Emley keeper did very well to only concede a corner making the save with his knees.
At the other end Townsend had a drilled shot well held by the keeper whilst Firth was cynically brought down whilst in space on the wing.
Into injury time Clarke made another good save from a cross cum shot, into the last seconds of the 5 minutes of injury time, an Emley corner saw every Bottesford player within their own box. Initially cleared the ball fell back to the corner taker Nodder, his cross was flicked on nicely by Hill’s head to the back post. Kenworthy’s agonising dive was not enough to get any contact at the back post with the open goal beckoning.
A very disappointing result for the villagers, Banks although will take comfort in the fact that Firth and Riley had solid games when called into action at the back.
Emley Man of Match Sean Hazelden.
Team: Clarke, Howson, Greene, Townsend, Leech, Hazelden, Gage, Hill, Kenworthy, Stuart, Nodder. Subs Ingham, Firth, Riley.

Worsbrough Bridge Athletic FC 0 - 3 AFC Emley. Tuesday 1^st of September 2009.

Three Wins From Three!

Two clinical free kicks from Dean Sidebottom and yet another goal from Kenworthy ensured AFC Emley left South Yorkshire with 3 league wins out of 3.

Manager Banks only made one change to the starting eleven who had impressed against Askern, Max Joice replacing Gage in defence. Playing down the slope, Emley immediately looked dangerous, Kenworthy again leading the line linking up well with Amos. On just 3 minutes Emley won a free kick on the left hand corner of the box. Sidebottom curled a powerful shot around the wall and past the despairing dive of Stainthorpe.

Emley continued to press and were passing the ball about the field well. Armitage playing on the wing was having his fair share of the ball. On the quarter hour mark a good interchange of passes he was played through to the edge of the box, unfortunately his somewhat rushed shot was put over the bar. The remainder of the first half was evenly contested, although Clarke in the visitor’s goal was hardly troubled.

Sidebottom again found himself stood over a free kick a minute before the break. Kenworthy receiving the ball at his feet 35 yards out was brought down from behind. Sidebottom hit a powerful shot that caught the keeper slightly off his line and he was unable to get near the ball as it curled into the left hand corner of the net.

Emley started the second half where they had left off. Kenworthy was getting plenty of ball in the attacking third, Armitage, Sidebottom and Amos all playing their part in the build up. On 64 minutes Emley were awarded a cheap penalty, the home keeper was guilty of a blatant push in the back, Mr Thompson had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Unselfishly Kenworthy allowed Sidebottom the opportunity of completing his hat trick. He put the ball to keeper’s right; who got both hands the ball and parried it away to safety.

Kenworthy was to get his just rewards on 69 minutes. An Emley free kick broke down and Sidebottom won a fifty, fifty ball well on touchline. He progressed to the dead ball line and beat another defender. His low cross was met well on the dive by Kenworthy; his strong header was partially blocked by the keeper, but still nestled in the net.

Banks again used the bench and brought on Stuart and Leech for Townsend and Hill respectively.

Emley keeper Clarke, who had relatively speaking had little to do, was called into action late into the game, blocking a stinging volley from the edge of the box.

Into the last 5 minutes Joice worked the ball out of defence well, his ball into Kenworthy’s feet was laid off to Ingham. His squared ball in the box fell nicely for Leech. His drilled shot was saved well by Stainthorpe as the ball looked destined for the top left corner of the net.

A strong competent performance from Ian Banks side, who will look to take this form into the trip to Bottesford on Saturday.

Team: Clarke, Joice, Green, Townsend, Higgingbotham, Hazelden, Sidebottom, Hill, Kenworthy, Amos, Armitage. Subs: Leech, Ingham, Stuart.

AFC Emley 4 – Askern Villa FC 1. Wednesday 26^th August 2009.

Four Goals For Kenworthy – Three Points For Emley.

AFC Emley Captain Steve Kenworthy scored all 4 goals against a strong Askern team tipped by many for promotion.

Emley manager had warned his team about allowing Askern time on the ball. After 3 minutes he must have thought he had been talking to himself. The visitors tore through the Emley defence with excellent skill shown by Askern’s James Naylor. Picking the ball up on the edge of the box, he rounded 2 defenders and struck the ball into the bottom right corner.

Askern were very quick on the break and at every opportunity took pot shots at Clarke’s goal. Emley eventually got a foot hold in the game, on 9 minutes a long throw from Higginbotham was headed towards goal by Hill and was held well by Scully.

Askern again came close to scoring, Naylor on a quick break down the left cut into the box and brought a brilliant save from Clarke down low to his left he palmed the ball out for a corner kick. It was from the subsequent corner that Emley broke out of defence. Sidebottom ran through the midfield and played an excellent central through ball to the edge of the box for Kenworthy. With the keeper advancing Kenworthy slid and scooped the ball over the sliding keeper and into the net.

The remainder of the half was fairly evenly contested, with both teams having shooting opportunities. Hill and Townsend having the better of the Emley efforts bringing regulation saves from Scully in the Askern goal.

Just 2 minutes into the second half an Emley attack broke down at the corner of the box. An attempted back pass was intercepted well by Kenworthy, with one touch he controlled the ball and with the Askern keeper off his line. Kenworthy drilled the ball from 20 yards into the top corner of the net.

Things were then to get better for Kenworthy in the next 2 minutes, Emley broke well down the right flank and the ball was played into Kenworthy’s feet. He was crudely brought to ground and a free kick awarded again on the edge of the box. Sidebottom who played well and continuously looked dangerous on the break floated the resultant free kick across the 6 yard box. Kenworthy popped up at the far post and steered the ball into the net.

For the next 20 minutes Emley sat back and allowed Askern to mount attack after attack, Naylor came close on 52 minutes with a shot across the face of goal. The same player should have scored on 77 minutes, a good cross in the box presented him with a free header which lobbed gently into Clarke’s hands.

Banks made changes into the last 20 minutes with Joice and Ingham coming on to replace the limping Gage and Amos respectively. The new legs brought further impetus to the Emley attack, on 83 minutes good work by Sidebottom put Ingham in down the right flank, he controlled the ball well and laid the ball back to Sidebottom. His looped cross saw Townsend challenge for the ball in the box. With the home fans asking for a penalty as he was climbed all over, the ball fell to the rear post. Kenworthy picked the ball up, took a touch and calmly played the ball between defender and corner into the net.

This was an impressive display against a very quick and competent Askern side. Kenworthy obviously stood out with his four goals, richly deserved as his work rate was phenomenal. His runs beyond the back line were well timed and incisive – he was not caught offside once all night. All of his goals could not have been more different. Often criticised the defence had a good game and coped well with the fast attacks of the visitors.

Team: Clarke, Gage, Green, Townsend, Higgingbotham, Hazelden, Sidebottom, Hill, Kenworthy, Amos, Armitage. Subs Joice, Ingham, Kenefick.

Attendence: 101

AFC Emley bounced back from their FA Cup disappointment with a well deserved victory over Hemsworth MW in the NCEL League cup. Before the game Emley manager Ian Banks called for his players to put in a more solid defensive performance and he got what he asked for with a clean sheet and 2 well taken goals to boot.

The opening exchanges of the game with both sides making chances but the defences dominated. Emley’s captain Steven Kenworthy lead by example and caused problems for the Hemsworth defenders all night. Within the first five minutes he was crudely brought down on the edge of the box and despite the protests of fans and players the referee waved “play on”. Kenworthy and Max Joice both went close for Emley whilst at the other end of the pitch Emleys full backs Joe Howson and Jack Greene were both called upon to make vital tackles in their own six yard box.

Emley finally got their breakthrough on 33 minutes when Anthony Leech (playing on the left wing) curled a shot cum cross over the advancing Hemsorth Keeper Dean Walstow. Hemsworth had two men on the line but Kenworthy was on hand to force the ball home from close range.

Emley kept their formation well throughout the remainder of the first half and went in 1-0 up at half time and within 5 minutes of the restart the lead had been doubled. Mick Amos controlled the ball well beat a Hemsworth defender and struck a sweet shot past Walstow from the edge of the penalty area.

Hemsworth, to their credit continued to push forward in search of a goal and Lee Dawson forced Emley ‘keeper Mick Clarke to pull off a great reaction save on 51 minutes. Emley were more than a match for this with Kenworthy and Amos combining well up front with both carving out opportunities to add to the lead. Their best chance to do this came on 70 minutes when Amos flicked on a long free kick from Clarke straight into the path of Kenworthy who was denied well by Walstow.

As the clock ran down Emley made a number of substitutions and the game lost momentum but Ian Banks will be happy with his side’s performance. Particularly pleasing would be the strong defensive performance, the tireless running of Josh Ingham in midfield and the growing understanding between Kenworthy and Amos up front. The side will look to take this form into their next league match at home to the much fancied Askern Villa next Wednesday evening.

15/08/09
Emley's FA Cup Misery
Emley suffered a heavy defeat against Runcorn Linnets in the extra preliminary round of the FA Cup in a game played at Witton Albion’s Wincham Park. The game started off very evenly with both sides creating chances. Runcorn broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute with a cross-cum-shot from Runcorn’s David Sherlock which glided over the Emley goalkeeper. Runcorn then dominated until half time.
After the break, Emley came out all guns blazing. Runcorn then brought on young talent in the shape of Matt Rigby who replaced the injured Michael Howarth. A spell of pressure from Emley was ended when Paul Crewe’s 60th minute deflected shot trickled past Mick Clarke in the Emley goal. Runcorn then continued to put the pressure on, with Rob Whyte coming close. Emley’s captain Steven Kenworthy scored a tremendous goal, from the right hand side of the six yard box sweetly striking the ball into the opposite corner in the 67 minute. Emley missed their chance to get back in the game as Runcorn went straight back up the pitch a minute later as Rob Whyte sublimely curled a left footed shot into the top corner past the on-looking goalkeeper.
Runcorn then brought on club captain Steve Cunningham as a replacement for Runcorn new boy Stephen Park. Runcorn continued to put the pressure on with Simon Howard coming close with an excellent header which was well saved by the Emley keeper. Runcorn brought on 16 year old Rio Quinlivan-Grech for David Sherlock in the 82nd minute. Runcorn finally polished off an excellent display in the 84th minute with Paul Crewe bagging his second goal of the game when substitute Matt Rigby delivered a far post cross which Paul Crewe converted to make it 4-1 to the Linnets.

12/08/09

Emleys Young Guns Hit Grimsby For Six

Emley recorded an emphatic 6-3 victory over Grimsby Borough in their opening fixture of the NCEL season. Manager Ian Banks was forced to make a number of last minute changes to his starting line up when the registration of three new signings wasn't confirmed by the league in time. The young squad did their manager proud however and put on a terrific show of attacking football.

Gavin Armitage put Emley in front on 10 minutes cooly slotting the ball to past Grimsby 'keeper Scott Drury after good work by Simeon Fletcher.

The home side continued to press forward and double their lead on 19 minutes when Sean Hazelden nodded down a corner for Joe Howson to volley home on the half volley.

Drury then pulled of a number of smart saves to keep Grimsby in the game as Emley turned the screw. Steve Kenworthy came agonisingly close with a spectacular overhead kick.

Grimsby caught Emley's defence napping when Lee Stevenson pulled a goal back for the visitors.

On 36 minutes Gavin Armitage who was a constant threat down the left wing turned provider for Josh Nodder who slotted the ball home in the 6 yard box.

Four minutes later Nodder added his second goal after Hazelden flicked on a free kick to Steven Kenworthy who's first time shot hit the post allowing Nodder to fire home from close range.

Lee Stevenson scored his second goal for Grimsby with an unstoppable 25 yard volley after Emley failed to clear a corner. The goal was appreciated by both sets of fans and capped an exhilarating first half with Emley leading 4-2.

Emley started the second half as they finished the third with captain Kenworthy playing a neat one-two with the impressive Fletcher before curling a chipped shot over the advancing Drury.

Five minutes later Fletcher capped an impressive debut with a well deserved goal with a well taken header.

Emley took their foot off the gas after the sixth goal and took Kenworthy off to rest him for saturdays important FA Cup clash. Grimsby captain John Toyne grabbed a late headed consolation goal but by this point the match was out of sight.

All in all this was an outstanding attacking performance from an Emley team who were at times goal shy last season. Great credit must go to Simeon Fletcher, Josh Nodder and Gavin Armitage who's skill pace provided a constant threat to the Grimsby defence. Well done too to Steven Kenworthy who in his first game as captain took a great deal of stick from the Grimsby back line but put in an inspirational performance for his young team mates.

AFC Emley:

Mick Clarke, Max Joice, Anthony Leech, Joe Howson, Sean Hazelden, Josh Nodder, Simeon Fletcher, Mark Stuart, Steve Kenworthy, Oliver Gage, Gavin Armitage. Subs: Jamie Clayton, Jordan Kenefick, Josh Ingham.

Grimsby Borough:

Scott Drury, Dean Newby, John Toyne, Daniel Taylor, David Unsworth, Darren Hanslip, Tommi Wright, Lee Stephenson, Richard Cree, Luke Fanthorpe, Oliver Howard.

Subs: Nick Brown, Joe Hutchinson, Simon Drape.

Att: 105