Joel Windsor, captain of Shotley Peninsula Cricket Club & Coddenham Athletic manager, discusses his involvement from the very start with Coddenham and his time at Shotley so far. Joel talks about targets for both clubs going forward and looks back at previous seasons.
DK: First off, what inspired you to become a manager?
JW: Ha, i got thrown in at the deep end, the club were struggling last season, and the chairman wanted a fresh approach, i agreed to take the job till the end of the season, and loved it. With a few extra bodies in, we managed to stay up. And i got offered it full time.
DK: How have you found management so far?
JW: I've found that like a lot of clubs, that commitment isn’t always there. You have to get the right sort of lads. Doesnt matter if you can bring all the best players together at one club, if they dont commit everyweek, then you arent going to get very far. We were chopping and changing everyweek up until end of November. Since December we’ve been great and climbed the table!
DK: How do you reflect on the season just gone from both a personal and team perspective?
JW: Its been tough, we had a new reserve team to bed in , and getting 2 sides out was a new challenge. I had a few targets in the summer to bring into the first team. I got a few of them, but also missed out on a few. A couple of them came back to me later on & signed, and we really pushed on!
With Coddenham, im not just the gaffer, its my club, i am founding member along with Tony & Andy (chairman & vice chairman) i run the socials, the fundraising, i do the secretary job aswell. But I love it!
DK: What's been the highlight of your overall time with the club?
JW: Been loads of highlights, id probably say promotion from Div 2, & then staying up in div 1 on final day the following year. When we formed the club in 2013, we set the goal to be a division 1 club by 2019. Giving us 6 years to get from Bury Div 1 to SIL Div 1. Which we achieved!
DK: What's it been like being involved in the club every step of the way & to be a big part in the club's progression up the leagues?
JW: Fantastic, its been a journey, we’ve had a few tough years along the way. But its been worth it! Next step is Senior. Hopefully we secure the signatures we want, and we can go to the next level.
DK: What's been the standout game from the six years so far?
JW: Been a few! Landmark game, First game in the SIL, we thrashed Stonham 7-0 on opening day in Div 4.
But then Winning 4-0 at Stanton on final day last season was my standout game. We travel there previously on a Saturday for it to be called off after 15 minutes due to wind. So we had to go back in Late april in midweek. We had alot of supporters travel up that night, we blew Stanton away first half & were 0-3 up. We played the game out really well, and won 0-4 to secure safety, it was a massive effort from all involved in the club!
DK: What would you say was the standout game from the season just gone?
JW: Easy, absolutely thrashing Barham at home in the derby. They'd beaten us in November and that really hurt us. We turned up that game & ran riot.
DK: You've spoken a bit about it but what targets do you have for next season?
JW: If i get the team i want, i.e. the management team i want with me aswell as getting a few bodies in from division above then top 4 with the idea of trying to push the top 2!
DK: Moving onto cricket, tell us a bit about your involvement with Shotley?
JW: They formed similar time to Coddenham. I played against them in first couple of years. Saw what they were doing & how much they loved cricket. I was falling out of love with the game, so decided to join, I knew 75% as i went to school with them, they were mostly 2/3 years older than me.
DK: How have you found your time at Shotley so far?
JW: Ohh its been fantastic! Best decision I’ve made! Been on 3 tours, including Malta playing against teams full of internationals. Had some superb success & the biggest thing we moved from our astro strip at holbrook high to a 9 strip square at Tattingstone! Lee Mandley has so much commitment to his club, its his baby, just like Coddenhams mine! Everything done at SPCC is down to Lee!
DK: Tell us a bit about how you became the captain of the team & how have you found the role so far?
JW: Well the committee approached me to run the t20 side 3 years ago. Tbf I'd captained sides at IES all through age group, so was used to it. Suffolk T20 comp is hard, you play some big local clubs, we’re a team of mates, and we came up against EAPL champions Sudbury, well that was a night to laugh about.....
This winter Ads stepped down as 1st Team captain so i threw my name in the hat. A week later the committee offered me the role. Which i took. Had not alot to do so far with all the Covid rubbish!
DK: Do you think there's much difference between the various formats of the game & which format do you prefer more?
JW: Huge difference between the formats. You cant ever beat Test Cricket for me! A battle over 5 days. I love all the formats i play, but the T20 is fun, we have music blasting, coloured kits, pink ball & bbq going on! Great social nights on Friday's!
DK: What's been your highlight whilst at Shotley?
JW: The Malta Tour, what a 5 days that was! Playing 3 teams full of internationals. And becoming the first SPCC to score an overseas 50.
DK: When the cricket is able to get underway what targets do you have for the coming season?
JW: Personally, score as many runs as possible. Team wise, win promotion!
Thursday, 30 April 2020
Wednesday, 29 April 2020
INTERVIEW: Charlie Cook
Bury Town midfielder and Bury St Edmunds CC Cricketer Charlie Cook discusses both his football and cricket career so far.
Quickfire questions
Favourite hot Drink? Tea
Favourite soft drink? Dr Pepper
Coke or Pepsi? Coke
Favourite Food? Steak and chips
Favourite Takeaway? Indian
Favourite TV Show? Friday night dinner
Favourite Film? Step Brothers
Favourite game? Fifa
XBOX Or PlayStation? PlayStation
Favourite sport other than football and why? Golf because it’s the best sport in the world.
DK: What professional team do you support and why?
CC: Ipswich because I like being disappointed every Saturday afternoon.
DK: Who's your favourite professional player and why?
CC: Flynn Downes because he’s class.
DK: What's the best game you've watched live and why?
CC: Went all the way to Rotherham to watch Ipswich in the pouring rain and lost 2-0, great day out.
DK: If you could relive any sporting moment from any time in person what would you pick and why?
CC: When Ben Stokes hit the winning runs against Australia in the Ashes.
DK: If you could pick any two professional footballers from any time to play alongside who would you pick and why?
CC: Gazza and Paul gasgoine because they were class players and unplayable on their day.
DK: What's the best ground you've played at so far and why?
CC: Ram Meadow, can’t beat playing at home. Played at Colchester but Ram Meadow's pitch was nicer than that.
DK: If you could play at any ground anywhere in the world where would you pick and why?
CC: Portman Road because I support Ipswich.
DK: How do you reflect on your time at Bury so far?
CC: I’ve made steady progress since joining as an u14 and have already achieved more than I believed I would.
DK: What's been the highlight of your time at Bury so far and why?
CC: Making my first team debut last year or playing at Colchester for the u18s in the Suffolk cup final.
DK: Tell us a bit of what it was like to be involved in the U18s best season to date, reaching the Suffolk cup final & being runners up?
CC: It was my favourite season so far because we were all really good mates and we had a great team which made it really enjoyable to play in.
DK: Other than the cup final, what was the highlight of that season?
CC: Scoring a volley against Sudbury at Ram Meadow.
DK: That same season you also played regularly for Team Bury, what was it like playing at Thurlow Nunn level?
CC: It was good to be playing men’s football and it taught us the physical side of the game as nearly all of the teams in that league played boom ball.
DK: What was the highlight from playing for Team Bury that season?
CC: Scoring a 90th minute equaliser against Leiston Res.
DK: How does that level compare to playing for the U23s?
CC: U23s is played at a faster pace and a lot more football is played whereas Team Bury was a more physical challenge.
DK: What's your highlight from playing for the U23s so far and why?
CC: Going to Hertford with 11 players and winning 5-1, a good performance from George Bugg despite turning up 5 mins before kick off.
DK: Being a Bury lad what was it like to make your first team debut?
CC: Was really exciting and something I was aiming towards, it’s made me hungrier to push on and hopefully play regularly in years to come.
DK: If you could relive any Bury game you've been involved (at any level) in so far which one would you pick and why?
CC: Winning the u15 eja league against needham at ram meadow, they were our rivals for a couple of years and had a really good team and we beat them 6-1 to win the league.
DK: Who's the best player you've played alongside and why?
CC: Ross Crane, not a bad player.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
CC: Carlos Edwards, couldn’t get near him.
DK: What was it like to play against an ex-Ipswich player?
CC: Difficult.
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've played alongside so far and why?
CC: GK- George Bugg, would get upset if I didn’t pick him.
RB- Josh Revell, what a player and what a boy to have in the changing room.
CB- joe White, only time he gets beat 1v1 is in the gulag.
CB- Joe Hood, Rolls Royce.
LB- Tommy Smith, still waiting for him to make a mistake.
CM- Harry Moore, quality player who can do everything.
CM- Ryan Jolland, quick and powerful and a decent golfer.
CAM- Jake Chambers-Shaw, can’t get the ball off him and not a bad DJ.
LF- Oli Selfe, unplayable for the few years we played together, quick and strong and scored some worldies.
RF- Olly Hughes, stamina of a marathon runner.
ST- Tanner Call- always gets a goal and has small feet.
DK: If you could pick an XI of your all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick and why?
CC: Ipswich’s promotion winning team in 2000.
DK: If you could play with any sportsman from another sport who would you pick and why?
CC: I’d play golf with Rory McIlroy.
DK: What's it like being involved in Bury's cricket set up?
CC: Really enjoyable, played cricket from a young age and I’m lucky I get to play with my mates at such a good club.
DK: What's your highlight from playing for the club so far?
CC: Winning the Suffolk T20 cup and taking 3 wickets in the final.
DK: What's your favourite format of the game and why?
CC: T20 because it is entertaining and encourages players to be more aggressive and creative.
DK: What's been your best batting performance so far?
CC: 98 not out off of about 60 balls against mildenhall, still yet to get a 100.
DK: What's been your best bowling performance so far?
CC: 5-18 off of 6 overs for 2nd XI.
DK: What would you say is the best team performance you've been involved in so far?
CC: Probably the 2nd XI for the majority of last season we bossed division 3.
DK: What targets do you have looking forward?
CC: Play regularly for Bury Town, Play regularly in the 1st XI for bury cricket club and get my golf handicap down.
DK: Who's the best cricketer you've played with so far and why?
CC: Daniel Moriarty or Justin Broad, Daniel has just signed a pro contract at Surrey and Justin will be playing professionally very soon.
DK: If you could pick any footballer (professional or not, from any time) to play cricket with and vice-versa who would you pick and why?
CC: I’d play cricket with George Bugg because that’d be 1 more thing I’d beat him at and I’ll play football with Ben stokes because he’d get right stuck in.
Quickfire questions
Favourite hot Drink? Tea
Favourite soft drink? Dr Pepper
Coke or Pepsi? Coke
Favourite Food? Steak and chips
Favourite Takeaway? Indian
Favourite TV Show? Friday night dinner
Favourite Film? Step Brothers
Favourite game? Fifa
XBOX Or PlayStation? PlayStation
Favourite sport other than football and why? Golf because it’s the best sport in the world.
DK: What professional team do you support and why?
CC: Ipswich because I like being disappointed every Saturday afternoon.
DK: Who's your favourite professional player and why?
CC: Flynn Downes because he’s class.
DK: What's the best game you've watched live and why?
CC: Went all the way to Rotherham to watch Ipswich in the pouring rain and lost 2-0, great day out.
DK: If you could relive any sporting moment from any time in person what would you pick and why?
CC: When Ben Stokes hit the winning runs against Australia in the Ashes.
DK: If you could pick any two professional footballers from any time to play alongside who would you pick and why?
CC: Gazza and Paul gasgoine because they were class players and unplayable on their day.
DK: What's the best ground you've played at so far and why?
CC: Ram Meadow, can’t beat playing at home. Played at Colchester but Ram Meadow's pitch was nicer than that.
DK: If you could play at any ground anywhere in the world where would you pick and why?
CC: Portman Road because I support Ipswich.
DK: How do you reflect on your time at Bury so far?
CC: I’ve made steady progress since joining as an u14 and have already achieved more than I believed I would.
DK: What's been the highlight of your time at Bury so far and why?
CC: Making my first team debut last year or playing at Colchester for the u18s in the Suffolk cup final.
DK: Tell us a bit of what it was like to be involved in the U18s best season to date, reaching the Suffolk cup final & being runners up?
CC: It was my favourite season so far because we were all really good mates and we had a great team which made it really enjoyable to play in.
DK: Other than the cup final, what was the highlight of that season?
CC: Scoring a volley against Sudbury at Ram Meadow.
DK: That same season you also played regularly for Team Bury, what was it like playing at Thurlow Nunn level?
CC: It was good to be playing men’s football and it taught us the physical side of the game as nearly all of the teams in that league played boom ball.
DK: What was the highlight from playing for Team Bury that season?
CC: Scoring a 90th minute equaliser against Leiston Res.
DK: How does that level compare to playing for the U23s?
CC: U23s is played at a faster pace and a lot more football is played whereas Team Bury was a more physical challenge.
DK: What's your highlight from playing for the U23s so far and why?
CC: Going to Hertford with 11 players and winning 5-1, a good performance from George Bugg despite turning up 5 mins before kick off.
DK: Being a Bury lad what was it like to make your first team debut?
CC: Was really exciting and something I was aiming towards, it’s made me hungrier to push on and hopefully play regularly in years to come.
DK: If you could relive any Bury game you've been involved (at any level) in so far which one would you pick and why?
CC: Winning the u15 eja league against needham at ram meadow, they were our rivals for a couple of years and had a really good team and we beat them 6-1 to win the league.
DK: Who's the best player you've played alongside and why?
CC: Ross Crane, not a bad player.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
CC: Carlos Edwards, couldn’t get near him.
DK: What was it like to play against an ex-Ipswich player?
CC: Difficult.
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've played alongside so far and why?
CC: GK- George Bugg, would get upset if I didn’t pick him.
RB- Josh Revell, what a player and what a boy to have in the changing room.
CB- joe White, only time he gets beat 1v1 is in the gulag.
CB- Joe Hood, Rolls Royce.
LB- Tommy Smith, still waiting for him to make a mistake.
CM- Harry Moore, quality player who can do everything.
CM- Ryan Jolland, quick and powerful and a decent golfer.
CAM- Jake Chambers-Shaw, can’t get the ball off him and not a bad DJ.
LF- Oli Selfe, unplayable for the few years we played together, quick and strong and scored some worldies.
RF- Olly Hughes, stamina of a marathon runner.
ST- Tanner Call- always gets a goal and has small feet.
DK: If you could pick an XI of your all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick and why?
CC: Ipswich’s promotion winning team in 2000.
DK: If you could play with any sportsman from another sport who would you pick and why?
CC: I’d play golf with Rory McIlroy.
DK: What's it like being involved in Bury's cricket set up?
CC: Really enjoyable, played cricket from a young age and I’m lucky I get to play with my mates at such a good club.
DK: What's your highlight from playing for the club so far?
CC: Winning the Suffolk T20 cup and taking 3 wickets in the final.
DK: What's your favourite format of the game and why?
CC: T20 because it is entertaining and encourages players to be more aggressive and creative.
DK: What's been your best batting performance so far?
CC: 98 not out off of about 60 balls against mildenhall, still yet to get a 100.
DK: What's been your best bowling performance so far?
CC: 5-18 off of 6 overs for 2nd XI.
DK: What would you say is the best team performance you've been involved in so far?
CC: Probably the 2nd XI for the majority of last season we bossed division 3.
DK: What targets do you have looking forward?
CC: Play regularly for Bury Town, Play regularly in the 1st XI for bury cricket club and get my golf handicap down.
DK: Who's the best cricketer you've played with so far and why?
CC: Daniel Moriarty or Justin Broad, Daniel has just signed a pro contract at Surrey and Justin will be playing professionally very soon.
DK: If you could pick any footballer (professional or not, from any time) to play cricket with and vice-versa who would you pick and why?
CC: I’d play cricket with George Bugg because that’d be 1 more thing I’d beat him at and I’ll play football with Ben stokes because he’d get right stuck in.
Tuesday, 28 April 2020
INTERVIEW: Fred Stewart-Hogg
In the first of a video interview series I've began doing for Moreton Hall Ferals' YouTube channel (link here), which I run for the club, midfielder Fred Stewart-Hogg discusses playing for the club. Link to the video playlist is here (apologies for issues with this, technical issues and lack of proper equipment hindered us a fair bit). Ferals Interview playlist can be found here.
Quickfire questions:
Favourite hot drink: Standard Cup of tea, can't go wrong 2 sugars so it's sweet.
Favourite cold drink: Fanta Fruit Twist, nice and exotic.
Favourite video game: Not had much time for video game but FIFA, but only FIFA 14 and nothing later.
Favourite video game growing up: FIFA, out the womb playing FIFA.
XBOX or PlayStation: PlayStation.
FIFA or PES: FIFA, somethings wrong if you pick PES.
Favourite TV show: Narcho, Pablo Escarbo (apologies for my spelling), if not (The Great British) Bake Off.
Favourite Film: Short something redemption if I've got time on my hands.
Favourite professional team: Ipswich Town.
Favourite professional player: Jason Scotland.
Me: If you could pick one sporting moment to relive in person from any time what would you pick and why?
Fred: Priskin's goal v Arsenal in the 1-0 Cup win for Ipswich. Absolute scenes.
Me: If you could pick any two players professionals, current or former, to play for Ferals who would you pick and why?
Fred: I'd have to go former here, I'd say Fat Ronaldo up top, him and Dongray probably fit in the same weight bracket. Ronaldo up to and then we'd have someone at the back. Jaap Stam, Palmer and Jaap Stam at the back!
Me: If you could relive any game you've already played in for Ferals, if you could replay that but nothing would change what would it be and why?
Fred: I reckon the cup final, 5-1 win over Horringer (Social Club) a few years ago, decent day, Sam was MOTM, yeah I'd say 5-1 over Horringer would be the best Ferals moment to date, so far to be continued!
Me: If you had to pick your top 3 goals you've scored before the season just gone for Ferals, what would you pick and why?
Fred: Cup final, probably Under-14, missed a penalty earlier on in the game, but that penalty was the beginning of me missing penalties - before then I was an absolute stone cold killer from the spot, but after that day it all went wrong, but I missed a penalty earlier on in the game, were struggling, it's boiling hot, Sam's (Waterson) got it (the ball) just outside the area, I was screaming at him, he back heels it to me, 25-yards out, bang curler straight into the top corner, that's probably number 1.
Number 2, trying to remember another two goals I've scored! Probably back in the early days, I must've scored some decent goals early on I never really remember my goals minute by minute like (Callum) Dongray does, so I reckon I, scored 4 against Stowmarket Hornets at Under-18s, one of them was an absolute beauty, in and out, Lionel Messi style, I think it was the fourth one. And then the third goal, trying to think of the big ocassions and the goals I've scored, actually the goal I scored this season against Gym at home, I enjoyed that one, we won 5-2.
Me: If you had to pick a goal that one of your
teammates has scored for Ferals what would be your favourite and why?
Fred: That one (Ben) Newdick knicked off Billy (Peck) this season, from about 13 centimetres. I'm sure that there's people that you'll interview people that will talk about goals they've scored, Cameron's (Nicholls) scored a world ie this season, overshadowed by Newdick's worldie in the same game, but if anything Cameron's is probably better. I reckon probably Newdick's one this season. Aston's one (Fallows, goalkeeper, against Brandon in 2018/19), yeah, Aston's one was a decent strike, I'm trying to go back earlier, looking at the early days, Sam (Waterson) scored a bullet header against Brandon once, that was a cracking header, but yeah let's go with Aston.
Me: What's the best cup final you've been involved in?
Fred: The U14 one, where I took and missed a penalty, but scored a screamer v Ipswich Valley Rangers White, boiling hot, a day where I was involved a heavy amount, so I'll say that.
Me: What's it like to play in those Cup finals?
Fred: You just can't imagine, absolutely unbelievable, you can't beat a day down Ram Meadow at the end of the season, always hot, big crowd, sensational atmosphere, a lot of pressure, usually starting on the bench, so they're usually big anti-climatixes until we win.
Me: To be fair Ferals have been making a few cup finals, so you've got a catalogue to go through.
Fred: Yeah, we would've probably had a couple more this season hopefully.
Me: Very true, as we had the Gym semi-final, and he had another semi - that we lost to Brandon away?
Fred: Yeah, we lost away 2-0.
Me: Yes, unfortunately one I missed as it was away.
Fred: You're our lucky charm.
Me: Haha, to be fair we only lost one game I was at this season.
Fred: We need you on the field!
Me: I'll stick to watching at the moment to be fair, maybe some other time, but I'm more of a goalkeeper anyway, be one for when Aston (Fallows, goalkeeper) can't be bothered!
Fred: Yeah, you'd get a good few games a season then!
Me: Yeah, it's save Adie (Crowe, manager) going in goal [editing note, not a jibe at Ade as he showed what he can do v Tostock earlier this season!]
Me: How do you look back on the season just gone, being unbeaten and reaching the cup semis?
Fred: A bit of a disappointing to end by this [pandemic], I think we couldn't have done much more really beyond beating Brandon and think we drew in the league against Tostock, so other than that it couldn't have gone much better. But equally we should be beating Brandon, we should be beating Tostock on our day. They're two good sides, but ideally we'd want to win every game pretty much - it's a bit disappointing that Horringer dropped out off the league, bit disappointing that Gym won't be in the league next season, but in terms of our season apart from winning every game you can't really improve on that. I think we've got a lot more to offer, I think we're about 60% of what we could be, so hopefully next season we're even better!
Me: Did you have any targets going into this season that you wanted to achieve and did you achieve them?
Fred: Well we wanted to win the league, win the cups. It was very disappointing to go out to Brandon in the cup, but I'm reliably informed that we didn't play that badly that day. Targets? No not really, win every game basically! Was Gym United first game of the season? So the first target would've been to beat them, did that so we pretty much met all the targets other than the fact that we haven't finished the season, so from what we played we where there or thereabouts.
Me: If you could relive a game that you played in just this season and it'd be the exact same, what would you pick and why?
Fred: Its got to be the 5-2 first game of the season (v Gym United), first game of the season you're always a bit unsure what we're going to be like and even in the first game of the season someone like Gym may not have everyone turn up and it can give you a bit of a help. First game of the season you'd imagine them all to be there so if we'd have lost that 5-2 you wouldn't have been massively surprised. I scored, we beat them pretty convincingly, think I played the whole 90 minutes, to win 5-2 you can't say better than that really so it'd have to be that game.
Me: If you could pick one teammate to be in quarantine with who would you pick and why?
Fred: Whoever gets this title will be the best of a bad bunch! Let me think Aston? No, just the idea of having to string more than two conversations together with him. (Callum) Dongray definitely not, (George Crowe) Crowey, yeah Crowey wouldn't be bad. (George) Palmer, yeah wouldn't be bad, I think me and Palmer would make a couple of wise old heads. Ells (Elliott Frost-Palmer), I think Ells would be bottom of my list! Actually no, that's harsh, I think in lockdown when you're bored Elliott might be alright but then I think after a couple of weeks he'd probably start going even more mental than he is already and that would be a dangerous combination. Sam (Waterson), yeah I couldn't argue with Sam.
Charlie Glover, fellow supermarket worker so we could talk for hours on end about the supermarket industry. Charlie Larter, yep again me and Charlie Larter (captain) would be a couple of wise heads sat there. Final answer would be Sam, maybe Crowey though.
Me: Pick a game that you've played in for Ferals but this time you can change any part of it ghat you wanted to, what one would you pick and why?
Fred: Same year as the other Cup final I talked about we lost the league, I think we were level on points but lost on goal difference, we had one final game of the season where we had Ipswich Valley Rangers Whites I think, I don't know what the score was in the end but we didn't win the league and we should've done really we were much better than them, I'd probably say that one having scored a goal early on and then we crumbled.
Fred: Best player I've played with, I'll tell you that one! I reckon Dongray is very decent, when we at Under-18s at Walsham he was unreal, really he's not a centre-back! If he's at his peak he's a central midfielder, I'd say Dongray is probably the best I've played with, but there's Gibbo, Ryan Gibbs, again Under-18 season - I think he's been unlucky with injuries - he's unreal, you put him through (on goal) and you know, you put your house on it that he's going to score! So I'll go with either Gibbo or Dongray! Cameron's decent, Sam's decent, we've got a decent team at the moment so as far as Ferals teams we've had this is probably the best one we've had!
We've made a couple of good additions, you could pick any one of them really, Glover on his day is very good, Dovey. I think if every player in this team was playing at their absolute best we could be very, very, good so hopefully over the next couple of seasons we can fulfill that potential. Gym are done, they've won everything, played in a national competition, we've got to be looking for that really and that'll be a tough act to follow then because they've done ridiculously well, but that's got to be the target for us, especially if Horringer and Gym have dropped out of the league, even if the league may be not at the quality level that it has been then its got to be Cup competitions that we really want to push on a bit more.
The league will still be good no matter what, you wouldn't be in Division One if you weren't decent but it will be disappointing not to have two good sides battling in it as well.
Me: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
Fred: I've played against Andre Dozzell in a school game, I had him in my pocket pretty much all game, there's a couple we played over the years who play for Woodbridge now, in their first team. Taylor Southgate is very good and he'd be someone I'd play against in midfield. In terms of going up against in midfield there's Taylor Southgate, Callum Sinclair who's possibly better on his day, but they both play for Woodbridge now and are very good growing up and we played against them year after year. You'd go to close them down and they'd pass it and they'd just keep running at you it was pretty simple but hey were pretty good at it. Actually Dongray too, when we were younger we used to play against him at like U9s, Dongray used to play for the other Moreton Hall until he was about 15 and Dovey (Callum Dove) was unreal.
Me: What's been like playing with your mates for a few years now?
Fred: That's probably the best thing about it really, and that's probably why we've been so good this season and we've probably underachieved in the past. A good part of why we've been as good as we've been is because we're all mates. When you play in teams where you don't know anyone that's where you struggle, those teams are never as good. It's been a good 11 years for me Crowey and Sam, can't complain with that. Sunday morning football with your mates, can't get better than that!
Me: If you could pick 3 of your appearances, for just the game itself, that stand out as the best so far which ones would you pick and why?
Fred: When we were playing for Walsham Under-18s against Woodbridge away and that's probably my favourite game ever, we won 3 or 4-1 in the end from my personal performance I was pretty happy with that, Gibbo was unreal that day, Dongray was unreal that day. I think we only had 11 or 12 players, we were missing a lot of big players that day so we had to step up a little bit, the cup final I've mentioned a couple of times where I scored after I missed the penalty. I played pretty well against Horringer, whenever we played them, barring that Cup final when I was a bit average. Gym United when we beat them 4-2 at Welneathem, I don't think it was this season but last season, I played pretty well that day, probably that.
Hopefully next season I come back from university and can play a bit more often!
Monday, 27 April 2020
INTERVIEW: Henry Hall
Haverhill Rovers' Henry Hall talks us through his career to date, discussing Bury Town U18's successful 2017/18 season and stints at Cambridge City, and more recently Haverhill Rovers.
Favourite hot Drink? Hot chocolate
Favourite soft drink? Water
Coke or Pepsi? Pepsi
Favourite Food? Corrr would say a steak
Favourite Takeaway? Thai street Cafe (if you know you know)
Favourite TV Show? Suits or limitless
Favourite Film? Would say Legend or the Dark knight
XBOX or PlayStation? Xbox, add me up flawlessdata800 if you wanna get smoked on fifa or fortnite
FIFA or PES? Fifa
Favourite game other than the above? Fortnite
Favourite sport other than football and why? Would say Golf because I have played since I was 12 years old, my uncle is an ex pro now a coach, so if any of you boys reading this want some lessons you know where to come too. But golf is a great sport if your playing well, shooting a low score it’s unreal but once your not, I couldn’t think of a worst sport.
DK: What professional team do you support and why?
HH: The Mighty Tottenham. My family are very split when it comes too football and who they support, we have my mums side of the family who live and breath West Ham. My two older brothers who are arsenal fans, one of my younger brothers is a Chelsea fan and then me my youngest brother, my dad and my dads side of the family are all spurs. I think like most young boys when going up picking a team it just mainly based on who there father supports so that’s my reason, even if tottenham do piss me off half the time.
DK: Who is your favourite professional player and why?
HH: Be being a defender it would have to be Sergio Ramos. Absolute player this man is. A complete defender. Can tackle and read the game, wins most of his aerial battles as well, can ping as well as complete composure on the ball. I also just like the fact he just wants to win and will do anything to do that. He’s a great captain for Real and a great leader. Would have to say in his prime was unstoppable. As well as stopping goals he can also score them as well. Also would say, even though people might not know him. Would be Conor Coventry. West Ham under 23s skipper and Republic of Ireland under 23 player. Conor been involved with the first team in a few games. He is currently on loan at Lincoln. Definitely a player who I would say to look out for. I’m lucky enough for Conor to be one of my best mates, the work he puts in class, he’s a very committed young lad with a big talent and I can’t to watch him on the big stage. Can't to watch him on the big stage.
DK: If you could pick any major sporting event that you could relive in person that took place at any time what would it be and why?
HH: I would definitely say the 2018 World Cup, personally, didn’t think England would go as far as they did, so when they got to the semis I think it brought everyone in the nation together, and when Tripper scored that free kick, well what a feeling that was!
DK: If you could play alongside any two professional footballers, past or present, who would you pick and why?
HH: Would definitely say Sergio Ramos, because of the reason above, and would also say CR7. A complete footballer as well as an complete athlete, to me come across as someone who wants to help players in order to help them and improve the team and for me that’s what I like.
DK: Who is the best player you've seen live and why?
HH: Would definitely be Rafael van Der Vaart, controlled and ran the midfield during the game so passionate for the club and for spurs to win.
DK: Talk us through your career so far, give us an overview from age 15-16 to present.
HH: Well at under 16 the level I was playing at wasn’t good enough for me so I joined Bury town, thanks to Josh and Steve Revell. We played some very good teams in that league as well as having a great side ourselves. We came second in the county cup final and off the top of my head 3rd in the league (might be wrong) after one game of under 16s, James Bloomfield who was currently manager asked me to play for his side. Even tho it didn’t end well for James and what he have liked, I think he done a great job from where they 18s was to our Phenomenal season that I’m sure the players who played would agree. After a season and half with the under 18s I decided to make a move to Cambridge City and with Guy Habbin. I think that season even tho we won the county cup was a little bit of a disappointment not taking home the league. For me we had the best team on paper for sure, but football being football things can’t always go your way and sadly lost the league to a very good st Neots team. The city boys was a great bunch of lads and I enjoyed every minute playing under Guy. Still in the same season after playing and training for the first team in pre season, was dropped to reserve football. Still being 17 it was a good challenge for me. However, half way through that Marc Abbott asked me if I wanted to play under him, of course I couldn’t turn this offer down so I went for the rest of the season on a dual registration. At Haverhill I think the players who have with me since I joined and the fans can say it’s been like a rollercoaster. We have had many ups and downs. When Abbo left for st Neots I think it was always going to be hard for whoever came in to replace him. Ali appointment Stuart Wardley and Dario. Like I said it was going to be hard and for them I think it was hard if they was honest, a few key players left the club and followed Abbo. And Stuart and Dario found it hard to replace them. Then season just gone was again difficult for the club and myself. At the start of the season I was dropped for a few games due to me making a mistake. But I learnt from it and made sure it won’t happen again. Fergus was In charged for a 1/3 of the season, after Fergus, James Bloomfield was appointment for a short period of time, I think where the club stood when james was in charge made it difficult for not just James or the players but the board and fans. Since Abbo has come back in charge the club hasn’t looked back, finishing off the season with 1 loss out of 9. So yes I do think Abbo has turned the club around like everyone thought he would do when he got appointment again.
Since 16 I've played under many mangers and had trails for Barnsley and Cambridge, so I would personally like to thank everyone for putting up with me and for always giving me chance, helping me and guided me on my path so far.
DK: What's your highlight of your career so far and why?
HH: I would say having a trial up in Barnsley. I had a two week trial up there, first week stayed with George Moncur at his house along with Cameron McGeehan, was great to live the life of a footballer like them training till 1 going home going out for food then coming back to watch love island. I wanna thank George for letting me stay and hope you Chelsea and Saylor are all well. The second week I stayed in digs due to the first team going away to Hungary. Was definitely the best football experience.
DK: What's your highlight of your career so far and why?
HH: To be part of that was something special, we wasn’t like Sudbury who trained 4 times a week, so to do what we done was special. To me it came down to the chemistry of the team, there was no hate for anyone in that team, and we clicked form the word go. It was a shame that we didn’t win anything but like I said you had a Very good Sudbury side who was training 4 times a week and schooling for 5 days a week.
DK: What was the standout highlight of that season?
HH: Standout highlight for me was playing at colchester Utd, some boys are lucky enough like myself to even play at a professional some boys aren’t but even tho we lost, just the day, getting a coach there with the boys and just playing at there ground has to be the standout highlight.
DK: How do you reflect on your time at Cambridge City, what's the set up there like?
HH: My time as city was short but sweet. I trained with the first team throughout pre season, the manager saw that I wasn’t ready for the level at the time, which I respected. So for half the season like I said I was playing for the reserves. But the 18s set up was really good. Guy is a good friend and a great manager and tried his best to make us better players, with some great training sessions, I played with very good players in that team that I think will go quite far in football, like the likes of Tommy Rigby, who is still at the club, Harvey Bullin, Jude White and Alfie Lawrence who is at Histon now playing week in week out for there first team. We also had the likes of Ben Farmer helping out sometimes giving good advice to players on how can they improve, but I am thankful for everyone at the club for the opportunities even though my time there was short.
DK: Talk to us a bit about your time at Haverhill Rovers so far, and how do you reflect on the season just gone?
HH: When I came to Haverhill, no one has heard of me I was a young lad, however they all made me very welcome to the club. The fans are amazing, as long as you give 100% on that pitch week in week out then that’s what matters to them, results will come with hard work form everyone in the team digging and fighting through every minute. Then you got the likes as the board who will do anything for the club, they know they haven’t got the Financial backing like the stowmarkets or the mildenhalls but that doesn’t stop them from working there nuts off, and sometimes the don’t get enough appreciation and I do thank them for everything they do for the club. But this season like I said previously was a hard season for not just myself but the club and the 4 players who has been here from the start. However, Marc is back and the club has turned around. It’s funny how one little man can change a whole club and Community. Before Marc came I was looking for a move away from the club. I had Offers I won’t lie, however when I had a deep and serious chat with Marc when he came back he of course convinced me to stay. Marc brought me to the club, gave me my first opportunity at step 5, taught me a lot of things but not just on the pitch but off of it as well. Marc you a great man and I respect you a lot, just again thank you really. now we look forward to pre season and the new season with the club and I honestly can’t wait for the new season, even though I've still got to face a two match suspension.
DK: What was the highlight of the season just gone?
HH: I would say Haverhill’s draw vs stowmarket, even tho it was a draw I think it being stowmarket and all there fans coming into the bar joking about putting bets on the score being 7-0. It just shows you what working hard for the team does especially against a team who pay a lot for there players who could easily play higher if they wanted too.
DK: What was it like to come up against such an experienced team as a fairly young side?
HH: When we faced Stow in the 2-2 Draw Marc brought back some old faces back to the club with more experience but with a few youngsters, but for the club it kinda felt like a win, two clubs with a huge gap in finances, it has to feel good.
DK: Who is the best player you've played alongside and why?
HH: Would have to be Tyger Smalls. A young Lad with so much confidence. Can take anyone on, unbelievable feet, pace and can score goals, that kid is going far in football and all I can do is wish him the best.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
HH: Would definitely say Carlos Edwards, a player who has played in a World Cup, in the premier league and championship, I mean don’t really need to say more than that. But players who haven’t played in the top flight league would be Ben Robinson, both times playing Newmarket was very hard to play up against, he’s got pace, he’s got skill, scores goals as well a joke of a delivery.
DK: Who would make the best 11 players you've played alongside so far and why?
HH: GK Toby Egan- Hands Down the best goalkeeper I’ve played with and the best shot stopper without a doubt. His distribution is spot on 9/10, shame his season came short at Haverhill, however will play at a very high level.
RB- with me if I didn’t put him in this team, I’m sure I’d be getting a few messages off the lad. Josh Revell. Can play anywhere on the pitch. Right foot, left foot skills and goals. Another position he can play is CAM. Near enough complete player, however the work rate can sometimes slack as i think he knows. One of my best mates and have the best banter with this kid. When we are around in the same team people might find us hard to put up with but can say we have the best chemistry on the pitch, again shame the Haverhill career was cut short.
CB-
Alfie Carroll- no doubt this kid wasn’t going to get in this team. A rock at the back, nothing gets past him, will dig deep through every minute of the game and certainly won’t give up no matter the result. A good leader and skipper. And unreal aural threat from defending headers too attacking them.
Alfie Lawrence- Still a very young lad, and already playing week in week out for histon. Like Carroll a Rock at the back, basically a Sergio Ramos without the pace
CM - if I didn’t mention him, I think I’d get a fine from the man himself. Marc Abbott. Covers every blade on the pitch, for a little man he will take on anyone on the pitch, and if you played with him or against him would say he’s like a little rateven at training, always hot on your reads and reads the game well. Scores goals (mainly pens) a great manager and again another good leader. Him and Haverhill are the perfect match and wouldn’t find a better person to be at the club than him.
CM- Harvey Bullin- A class Central midfield player. All I can say is that he is literally the non league Moussa Dembélé. Again a good leader with no one ever going to take that skippers armband away from him at 18s. But just a all round great player, very strong on the ball, again very good in the air and has a ping on him
CAM- Ben Bradley- Gives any defence a hard time. Like the white Dele Ali, scores goals, skilful, reads the game well, assists, a great player to have in the team especially in the changing rooms.
ST
Ben Nolan- aka the ginger Messi, aka mr contract, weaves past players, bangs goals left right centre, a very rare a unique player. Very good to play with him, however a handful to play against. Best game Iv seen him play was vs Haverhill. Sadly I was benched so I couldn’t have pocketed him but the goals he scored that night was something special. One of my best mates. And next season I’m sure you’ll see him in the top 10 goal scorers in the league.
Tyger Smalls- I think most people know what Tygers like. Best young player Iv seen. Scores goals that you wouldn’t believe if I told you. A good Kid. Just keep working hard Tyger, that’s all I can say. 100% sure you’ll be seeing his name at a professional club soon
Favourite hot Drink? Hot chocolate
Favourite soft drink? Water
Coke or Pepsi? Pepsi
Favourite Food? Corrr would say a steak
Favourite Takeaway? Thai street Cafe (if you know you know)
Favourite TV Show? Suits or limitless
Favourite Film? Would say Legend or the Dark knight
XBOX or PlayStation? Xbox, add me up flawlessdata800 if you wanna get smoked on fifa or fortnite
FIFA or PES? Fifa
Favourite game other than the above? Fortnite
Favourite sport other than football and why? Would say Golf because I have played since I was 12 years old, my uncle is an ex pro now a coach, so if any of you boys reading this want some lessons you know where to come too. But golf is a great sport if your playing well, shooting a low score it’s unreal but once your not, I couldn’t think of a worst sport.
DK: What professional team do you support and why?
HH: The Mighty Tottenham. My family are very split when it comes too football and who they support, we have my mums side of the family who live and breath West Ham. My two older brothers who are arsenal fans, one of my younger brothers is a Chelsea fan and then me my youngest brother, my dad and my dads side of the family are all spurs. I think like most young boys when going up picking a team it just mainly based on who there father supports so that’s my reason, even if tottenham do piss me off half the time.
DK: Who is your favourite professional player and why?
HH: Be being a defender it would have to be Sergio Ramos. Absolute player this man is. A complete defender. Can tackle and read the game, wins most of his aerial battles as well, can ping as well as complete composure on the ball. I also just like the fact he just wants to win and will do anything to do that. He’s a great captain for Real and a great leader. Would have to say in his prime was unstoppable. As well as stopping goals he can also score them as well. Also would say, even though people might not know him. Would be Conor Coventry. West Ham under 23s skipper and Republic of Ireland under 23 player. Conor been involved with the first team in a few games. He is currently on loan at Lincoln. Definitely a player who I would say to look out for. I’m lucky enough for Conor to be one of my best mates, the work he puts in class, he’s a very committed young lad with a big talent and I can’t to watch him on the big stage. Can't to watch him on the big stage.
DK: If you could pick any major sporting event that you could relive in person that took place at any time what would it be and why?
HH: I would definitely say the 2018 World Cup, personally, didn’t think England would go as far as they did, so when they got to the semis I think it brought everyone in the nation together, and when Tripper scored that free kick, well what a feeling that was!
DK: If you could play alongside any two professional footballers, past or present, who would you pick and why?
HH: Would definitely say Sergio Ramos, because of the reason above, and would also say CR7. A complete footballer as well as an complete athlete, to me come across as someone who wants to help players in order to help them and improve the team and for me that’s what I like.
DK: Who is the best player you've seen live and why?
HH: Would definitely be Rafael van Der Vaart, controlled and ran the midfield during the game so passionate for the club and for spurs to win.
DK: Talk us through your career so far, give us an overview from age 15-16 to present.
HH: Well at under 16 the level I was playing at wasn’t good enough for me so I joined Bury town, thanks to Josh and Steve Revell. We played some very good teams in that league as well as having a great side ourselves. We came second in the county cup final and off the top of my head 3rd in the league (might be wrong) after one game of under 16s, James Bloomfield who was currently manager asked me to play for his side. Even tho it didn’t end well for James and what he have liked, I think he done a great job from where they 18s was to our Phenomenal season that I’m sure the players who played would agree. After a season and half with the under 18s I decided to make a move to Cambridge City and with Guy Habbin. I think that season even tho we won the county cup was a little bit of a disappointment not taking home the league. For me we had the best team on paper for sure, but football being football things can’t always go your way and sadly lost the league to a very good st Neots team. The city boys was a great bunch of lads and I enjoyed every minute playing under Guy. Still in the same season after playing and training for the first team in pre season, was dropped to reserve football. Still being 17 it was a good challenge for me. However, half way through that Marc Abbott asked me if I wanted to play under him, of course I couldn’t turn this offer down so I went for the rest of the season on a dual registration. At Haverhill I think the players who have with me since I joined and the fans can say it’s been like a rollercoaster. We have had many ups and downs. When Abbo left for st Neots I think it was always going to be hard for whoever came in to replace him. Ali appointment Stuart Wardley and Dario. Like I said it was going to be hard and for them I think it was hard if they was honest, a few key players left the club and followed Abbo. And Stuart and Dario found it hard to replace them. Then season just gone was again difficult for the club and myself. At the start of the season I was dropped for a few games due to me making a mistake. But I learnt from it and made sure it won’t happen again. Fergus was In charged for a 1/3 of the season, after Fergus, James Bloomfield was appointment for a short period of time, I think where the club stood when james was in charge made it difficult for not just James or the players but the board and fans. Since Abbo has come back in charge the club hasn’t looked back, finishing off the season with 1 loss out of 9. So yes I do think Abbo has turned the club around like everyone thought he would do when he got appointment again.
Since 16 I've played under many mangers and had trails for Barnsley and Cambridge, so I would personally like to thank everyone for putting up with me and for always giving me chance, helping me and guided me on my path so far.
DK: What's your highlight of your career so far and why?
HH: I would say having a trial up in Barnsley. I had a two week trial up there, first week stayed with George Moncur at his house along with Cameron McGeehan, was great to live the life of a footballer like them training till 1 going home going out for food then coming back to watch love island. I wanna thank George for letting me stay and hope you Chelsea and Saylor are all well. The second week I stayed in digs due to the first team going away to Hungary. Was definitely the best football experience.
DK: What's your highlight of your career so far and why?
HH: To be part of that was something special, we wasn’t like Sudbury who trained 4 times a week, so to do what we done was special. To me it came down to the chemistry of the team, there was no hate for anyone in that team, and we clicked form the word go. It was a shame that we didn’t win anything but like I said you had a Very good Sudbury side who was training 4 times a week and schooling for 5 days a week.
DK: What was the standout highlight of that season?
HH: Standout highlight for me was playing at colchester Utd, some boys are lucky enough like myself to even play at a professional some boys aren’t but even tho we lost, just the day, getting a coach there with the boys and just playing at there ground has to be the standout highlight.
DK: How do you reflect on your time at Cambridge City, what's the set up there like?
HH: My time as city was short but sweet. I trained with the first team throughout pre season, the manager saw that I wasn’t ready for the level at the time, which I respected. So for half the season like I said I was playing for the reserves. But the 18s set up was really good. Guy is a good friend and a great manager and tried his best to make us better players, with some great training sessions, I played with very good players in that team that I think will go quite far in football, like the likes of Tommy Rigby, who is still at the club, Harvey Bullin, Jude White and Alfie Lawrence who is at Histon now playing week in week out for there first team. We also had the likes of Ben Farmer helping out sometimes giving good advice to players on how can they improve, but I am thankful for everyone at the club for the opportunities even though my time there was short.
DK: Talk to us a bit about your time at Haverhill Rovers so far, and how do you reflect on the season just gone?
HH: When I came to Haverhill, no one has heard of me I was a young lad, however they all made me very welcome to the club. The fans are amazing, as long as you give 100% on that pitch week in week out then that’s what matters to them, results will come with hard work form everyone in the team digging and fighting through every minute. Then you got the likes as the board who will do anything for the club, they know they haven’t got the Financial backing like the stowmarkets or the mildenhalls but that doesn’t stop them from working there nuts off, and sometimes the don’t get enough appreciation and I do thank them for everything they do for the club. But this season like I said previously was a hard season for not just myself but the club and the 4 players who has been here from the start. However, Marc is back and the club has turned around. It’s funny how one little man can change a whole club and Community. Before Marc came I was looking for a move away from the club. I had Offers I won’t lie, however when I had a deep and serious chat with Marc when he came back he of course convinced me to stay. Marc brought me to the club, gave me my first opportunity at step 5, taught me a lot of things but not just on the pitch but off of it as well. Marc you a great man and I respect you a lot, just again thank you really. now we look forward to pre season and the new season with the club and I honestly can’t wait for the new season, even though I've still got to face a two match suspension.
DK: What was the highlight of the season just gone?
HH: I would say Haverhill’s draw vs stowmarket, even tho it was a draw I think it being stowmarket and all there fans coming into the bar joking about putting bets on the score being 7-0. It just shows you what working hard for the team does especially against a team who pay a lot for there players who could easily play higher if they wanted too.
DK: What was it like to come up against such an experienced team as a fairly young side?
HH: When we faced Stow in the 2-2 Draw Marc brought back some old faces back to the club with more experience but with a few youngsters, but for the club it kinda felt like a win, two clubs with a huge gap in finances, it has to feel good.
DK: Who is the best player you've played alongside and why?
HH: Would have to be Tyger Smalls. A young Lad with so much confidence. Can take anyone on, unbelievable feet, pace and can score goals, that kid is going far in football and all I can do is wish him the best.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
HH: Would definitely say Carlos Edwards, a player who has played in a World Cup, in the premier league and championship, I mean don’t really need to say more than that. But players who haven’t played in the top flight league would be Ben Robinson, both times playing Newmarket was very hard to play up against, he’s got pace, he’s got skill, scores goals as well a joke of a delivery.
DK: Who would make the best 11 players you've played alongside so far and why?
HH: GK Toby Egan- Hands Down the best goalkeeper I’ve played with and the best shot stopper without a doubt. His distribution is spot on 9/10, shame his season came short at Haverhill, however will play at a very high level.
RB- with me if I didn’t put him in this team, I’m sure I’d be getting a few messages off the lad. Josh Revell. Can play anywhere on the pitch. Right foot, left foot skills and goals. Another position he can play is CAM. Near enough complete player, however the work rate can sometimes slack as i think he knows. One of my best mates and have the best banter with this kid. When we are around in the same team people might find us hard to put up with but can say we have the best chemistry on the pitch, again shame the Haverhill career was cut short.
CB-
Alfie Carroll- no doubt this kid wasn’t going to get in this team. A rock at the back, nothing gets past him, will dig deep through every minute of the game and certainly won’t give up no matter the result. A good leader and skipper. And unreal aural threat from defending headers too attacking them.
Alfie Lawrence- Still a very young lad, and already playing week in week out for histon. Like Carroll a Rock at the back, basically a Sergio Ramos without the pace
CM - if I didn’t mention him, I think I’d get a fine from the man himself. Marc Abbott. Covers every blade on the pitch, for a little man he will take on anyone on the pitch, and if you played with him or against him would say he’s like a little rateven at training, always hot on your reads and reads the game well. Scores goals (mainly pens) a great manager and again another good leader. Him and Haverhill are the perfect match and wouldn’t find a better person to be at the club than him.
CM- Harvey Bullin- A class Central midfield player. All I can say is that he is literally the non league Moussa Dembélé. Again a good leader with no one ever going to take that skippers armband away from him at 18s. But just a all round great player, very strong on the ball, again very good in the air and has a ping on him
CAM- Ben Bradley- Gives any defence a hard time. Like the white Dele Ali, scores goals, skilful, reads the game well, assists, a great player to have in the team especially in the changing rooms.
ST
Ben Nolan- aka the ginger Messi, aka mr contract, weaves past players, bangs goals left right centre, a very rare a unique player. Very good to play with him, however a handful to play against. Best game Iv seen him play was vs Haverhill. Sadly I was benched so I couldn’t have pocketed him but the goals he scored that night was something special. One of my best mates. And next season I’m sure you’ll see him in the top 10 goal scorers in the league.
Tyger Smalls- I think most people know what Tygers like. Best young player Iv seen. Scores goals that you wouldn’t believe if I told you. A good Kid. Just keep working hard Tyger, that’s all I can say. 100% sure you’ll be seeing his name at a professional club soon
Sunday, 26 April 2020
INTERVIEW: James Bloomfield
Whitton United first team coach James Bloomfield discusses his coaching career so far, including spells as Bury Town Under-18 manager, Haverhill Rovers manager and more.
DK: First off, what inspired you to become a coach?
JB: The thing that inspired me to be a coach the most was always believing that things could be done better. At most clubs I played for as a child I always felt things could be better, the training, matchdays, team mates and everything could be better - especially in terms of effort and desire. When I turned up pre season with ex Gillingham legend and Man City player Rob Taylor as manager and still thinking of ways things could be better, I should’ve realised then that I was going to coach and manage in football very quickly haha.
DK: Talk us through your coaching career so far and how you've found it so far?
JB: I fell into it at first while playing Saturday’s and Sundays through injury, as said above I turned up pre season at Diss Town and struggled with my knee and Sundays played for my local village Burston who were going to fold at the end of that season. By the end of that season I was assisting Diss Reserves and managing Burston to save them from folding and that was it I loved it. That quickly escalated into the Anglian Combination league with Redgrave assisting Charlie Nevitt who’s one of the best people I’ve met or worked with below semi professional football, his passion for the game, number of years at the club while running his own business (our local sports shop) was amazing.
From there I moved onto Scole United where the first team had real success seeing promotions from Anglian combination div 2, to div 1 and the to the Prem plus a Norfolk Junior Cup Final at Carrow road. I definitely at a young age learned from Jimmy Last in that time, his demand of high standards and discipline, was instantly respected and born a winner in anything he does. As well as first team success we had a thriving reserves and added an “a” team I supported creation of to bring the strong youth setup at the time into the first team quicker.
From there I had a year out to watch as many coaches as possible, began two years of full time work with Norwich City as an elite development coach and really network.
My next move was one of the most successful moves of my career in football so far. After meeting with the chairman Russell Ward and at the time new first team manager Ben Chenery I was quickly appointed the task of building as manager a Bury Town U18s team in for their first time in 8 years. A season to build, a season of huge success going unbeaten (other than to full time academy AFC Sudbury) for 19 months was an achievement, and a season of rebuilding for what they have in place now.
Within a month of leaving Bury I teamed up with Shane Coldron and Robbie Knott as first team coach at Whitton United for the reminder of that season, I loved the experience with the squad and how welcome I was at the time. We climbed the league really quickly in that spell.
This was followed by an appointment at Haverhill Rovers, a club I saw massive potential in. I came in as assistant to Fergus O’Callaghan and within a few months was appointed first team manager. The remit was believed to build a younger squad, with as many local players as possible and the targets were seemingly long term. My spell there doesn’t look covered in success and glory, but we played the top sides in the league, received many compliments for the way we played and potential of the squad. I have too much respect for the people there to into details but one day I may talk more about the underlying problems. I appreciated the opportunity to manage at step 5 by 26 years old and will forever be in contact with Ali Shulver and Pete Betts for giving that to me.
That finally brings me onto my current role back to Whitton United as first team coach. I had a number of opportunities after Haverhill but felt I owed it to Shane to come and give a longer stint with him. Whitton had not won in 10 games and I could see in the squad real potential. We went 12 games without losing and looked before this outbreak that a top 6 finish would’ve been a fair reflection of the squad at the very least. Whitton is proud to be a more unfashionable club, it sounds funny but it brings a togetherness and a family feel, a club and people that work hard and love spending time together. I look forward to every training session and every match and with Shane and the best of the squad staying together I hope their success continues.
DK: What is the highlight of your coaching career so far?
JB: That’s a tough question, walking out with an unbelievable team at Colchester United with Bury Town U18s was one of the proudest, I’d never coached in youth football and to finish a season like that is something I won’t forget. I’ve loved everywhere I’ve been for different reasons but having the relationship I did with the chairman and seeing two busses and hundreds more supporters there with smiles on a boiling day was definitely a highlight.
DK: What was it like to coach at a professional ground?
JB: I've had experience at a few professional grounds with other clubs and working for Norwich. But to be the manager, after building a new side, with so many local “Bury boys” and their pride made it. Colchester United treated us with real respect with a tour the night before and players lounge after the game etc was first class. I won’t forget it.
DK: That season overall was extremely successful as you mentioned, other than that Cup final what was your highlight of it?
JB: Drew this is where you come into my story, after the quarter final at Felixstowe where I felt there was unnecessary behaviour with supporters running onto the pitch and into my dugout etc so to win that and top it off with the players letting you in to really celebrate with the players was a great moment. Of course the reaction in the semi final and some heavy wins also up there.
DK: What is the best ground you've coached at and why?
JB: If I break it down a bit, with Norwich at MK dons was a great experience, if you haven’t been to the ground google it, it’s like a bowl and holds over 30,000.
At Bury Colchester United as we spoke about was the best being the only pro ground we played at and how we were treated.
In terms of non league ground Ram Meadow was home and it’s only stand and tunnel I’ll always love, but BEST ground probably has to be Kings Lynn, very close to a professional ground and the way they’re going they probably soon will be.
DK: What was it like working for Norwich being a supporter of the club?
JB: Working for the club your support bring your heart into it and you have a connection with everything you do. I’ve found in my career though that I put my heart and everything into any club I step into so although I support them, whatever club I’m with becomes the team I support and love very quickly.
DK: What was the highlight from your time at Norwich?
JB: From a personal point of view doing my Talent ID level two with all academy staff in a room for a week with so many ex Norwich players and my childhood heroes sharing their memories and knowledge was amazing. Seeing the premier league grounds and training grounds and pre season tours etc were fun but that was probably my highlight.
DK: What was the best team you played whilst at Norwich?
JB: National Premier League tournament which was held in Leicester, we played Man City, Tottenham and Chelsea who were all equally unbelievable, if I had to choose 1 Chelsea were relentless.
DK: Going back to Bury briefly, what was your favourite home game during your time at the club?
JB: Talk about Bury as much as you like, I’d love to hear your opinion too as you were with us all the while but 9-0 at home to Brantham and 12-2 a week later to FC Clacton the 2nd and 3rd games of the season. I’d say the 12-2 as we scored more second half than the first, Robbie Hunter coming off the bench to score a quick hattrick. The game vs Sudbury although we lost 3-2 we were 2-0 up with two great goals and had to take first team players off the pitch in final minutes causing a loss in the end but a great game with a big crowd.
DK: Do you think there's a difference between the different levels of coaching (ie professional youth, youth at non league and senior non league)
JB: Yes definitely, academy football has the luxury of full time coaching so the levels are high and facilities amazing, in non league youth football you’re fitting as much as you can into much lower training hours. Some of the academy players struggle when they drop into non league or non academy football. Senior Football then becomes result based whereas youth football must be development based, trying to improve players as footballers and as people to have them ready for senior football. Personally I get the most enjoyment from senior football where the focus is on the team and learning to win matches.
DK: Whilst coaching at senior level what's been your highlight so far?
JB: There’s been a few, the earlier years are hard to forget being involved in promotions at a young age. A late equaliser against Stowmarket with Whitton United is up there. Jacob Lay has been doing some 1-2-1 sessions with me along side team training and smashed one in the top corner late on against league leaders was a highlight. Naming Leroy Lita as my assistant manager, more than the training was the knowledge and conversation around the team and myself. Beating Mildenhall at their place with Haverhill in a smash and grab another. If I had to pick one I’d pick the first.
DK: What was it like being able to work alongside Leroy? How it that come about?
JB: Leroy is probably the favourite player Norwich have EVER had on loan, I reached out to him when he retired and he was amazing in getting involved in youth section as well as first team. It was a pleasure to have conversations with someone who’s spent time in the premier league and football league, the detail and information shared were on another level. As well as a great player, joining in with training he’s a humble and friendly guy, we still keep in regular contact now.
DK: What is it like managing in Thurlow Nunn Premier?
JB: It’s a good league to manage in, there’s many players who have come down from a higher level, managers that have played professional or higher level semi pro football and to try yourself against these kinds of people is why I’m in the game.
DK: What was your highlight during your time at Haverhill?
JB: A big win vs Godmanchester rovers at home, Tyger Smalls scoring the best goal I’ve ever had scored for my team in a late winner against Thetford Town you’ve probably seen online was a moment, the cheer for the goal was really, really loud, like much louder than normal! But if I picked one then probably the Mildenhall Win as it was away from home and I think they’d been a long time without losing at home.
DK: Other than the Stow game, what's been your highlight from your overall time at Whitton?
JB: Overall, coming back for the second spell and going 12 games unbeaten if I can choose a long highlight, at any level that’s an exceptional run. We really felt unbeatable in that run, the last time I had that was of course at Bury.
DK: How do you reflect on the season overall from both a personal and team perspective (whilst involved with Rovers & Whitton though)?
JB: I think on both fronts it’s hard not to feel disappointed. The side we built at Haverhill with long term objectives, small budget and massive potential was a job that become untenable, but was the beginning of something special. The opportunity and experience I loved, I was at the club most days to get involved with as much of everything below the first team as I possibly could and I wouldn’t change a thing. The disappointment to finish the season early with Whitton and not be given the change to finish at the very least in the top 6 which was more than achievable for that squad. However I don’t do regrets, I put 100% into the season and got the same in return through experience and some success.
DK: Overall who is the best player you've coached so far and why?
JB: Difficult question as best can be taken in different ways as in potential, experience, bravery or so many ways to judge it.
In terms of experience seeing John Kennedy in pre season at Bury Town coming first in all fitness tests and running is exceptional. At Whitton Scott Marjoram is still one of the best CB’s in the league and never seems to have a bad game, same for Tom Bradlaugh and Kev Inglis all with unbelievable ability and experience.
Best potential I have to look at so many of that cup final side at Bury with Harry Moore, Josh Revell, Oli Selfe, Charlie Cook, Michael Bett, Joe Keylock and all involved in that season. Tyger Smalls will have been failed if he doesn’t get an opportunity at pro football. Max Dinnell is also someone who although had a taste of academy football has slipped under the radar and if he keeps working hard has a real chance to go further in the game than even he might believe. The boy can find gaps for passes that most can’t, tackles, works harder than most and scores goals too.
I still give the same answer when asked the best player I’ve worked with and it hasn’t changed with Tommy Robinson. His technical ability, body shape and intelligence beyond his years, impossible to tackle and given the opportunity WILL play a lot, lot higher than he has so far. Wants to learn and improve, sets high standards and rightfully captain of my side too.
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've coached so far and why?
JB: When you’ve achieved things with a group it’s hard to leave any out, and so many more will deserve to be in this squad! Some of these are based on having played for me for longer than others or particular achievements.
GK - Michael Bett - Was playing up a year at 18s early and instrumental in reaching the final. James Young and Toby Egan both incredible too.
LB - Henry Hall - A defender that wants to play in modern football is becoming a must. Quick, tall and would love to be in love island.
CB - Scott Marjoram - easiest choice, experienced, calm and so consistent. Wants to come off every game from 70th minute though.
CB - Alfie Carroll - demands high standards from the squad, dressing room leader, so versatile in position. Hadleigh away didn’t happen.
RB - Josh Revell - I’m another to include Josh in this role without it being his best position. Technically gifted, loves a 60 yard ping and 30 yard strike. Awful sideburns.
CDM - Tom Bradlaugh - not just the best I’ve coached in this role but one of the best I’ve seen at this level. Composed on the ball, another good leader who wants to win.
CM - Tommy Robinson - impossible to tackle, read above for more. Can he pass?
CM - Max Dinnell - played over 50 games at step 5 and 6 before turning 18. Can pass, shoot and run, good in and out of possession. Awful at being subbed off.
LW - Jacob Lay - Athletic, strong and works hard to improve. Smart guy 👀
RW - Tyger Smalls - can play a number of positions, ball sticks to his foot and has potential to reach incredible heights. Defending? 🤔
CF - Jay Cole - creates goals for himself with his own hard work, pace and ability to finish in many ways.
Subs:
Adam Dunnage - should be in the squad above and ask me again with another year working with him and he will be. Another CB that can play, head and tackle. Loves a red and love island.
Harry and Liam Wales - naming them together to get an extra spot. Liam brining experience from high leagues ability to twist and then to create goals, Harry a commanding CB one of the best I’ve ever seen in the air.
Harry Moore - was unfortunate at Haverhill with injury followed by my departure but showed he can play at step 5 already and with more belief in himself will be seen in higher leagues too. Definitely has a perm.
Kev Inglis - I can only wish I’d seen this guy in his prime, still class now and would improve most sides in the league. Loves referees.
Kieran Michaels - again if I’d managed this lad longer he’s good enough to fit in the squad above. Ex Colchester, great character, good coach and footballer with real understanding. Excited to see him climb the leagues. Not a right back.
Josh Hubert - big tackler, strong, can play a number of positions well and another who’s played literally hundreds of games at step 5 and 6 and still younger than most would think!
DK: From your time at Bury what was the best goal one of your players scored?
JB: Wow we scored so many goals that season, Tommy Robinson’s Free kick against Sudbury, absolute worldie! Oli Selfe away at Clacton full volly across goal into top left, rocket. Cameron Smith away at Witham 20+ yards top corner. Josh Revell free kick vs Cambridge United I’ve got the photo of the ball right up in the corner too. I think because of the game and being the opening goal I’d pick the first, you’ll remember it, can hear your scream in celebration from here 😂. Not forgetting Charlie Cook scoring the second with a ridiculous follow from 25ish yards over the keeper vs Sudbury!
DK: What would be the top 3 goals your Haverhill players scored during your spell over there?
JB: We actually had a habit of scoring good goals!
Easy number 1 - Tyger Smalls again find his Twitter it went viral and shared by talksport and all sorts. Josh Revell has already scored a screamer but Tyger flicks it over the defenders head and volleys it rocketing in off the crossbar in one quick move, if a pro did that in the premier league it would be up there with goal of the season still!
2 - Kieran Michaels - 30+ yards out given space takes one touch and arrows it top corner.
3 - Josh Revell had two equally good vs Godmanchester and Thetford both well outside the area, keeper off the line and glided in top corners.
DK: Top goal from your time at Whitton so far?
JB: I’m terrible at remembering goals but can’t ask others at Whitton if you want 3 haha.
Very easy one Jacob Lay vs Stowmarket, cut in on right foot outside the box and curls it into the top right!
DK: What aims do you have looking forward?
JB: I set a goal that keeps me wanting more, my aim is always to progress as high up the footballing ladder as my own success and drive allows me to. Of coarse I set and get set shorter term goals along the way but that’s always my objective.
It’s important for me to remain true to myself, remain someone with a big heart for the game and for other people. I want to make people happy, a sense of belonging as well as push them to achieve as much success in their own careers as possible.
DK: What is the highest scoring game you've been involved in?
JB: And as a manager 12-2 win vs FC Clacton. I actually prefer more competitive games than a steam rolling but I guess it’s good for the confidence.
But as a player I have to mention an 11-0 win where I scored 6.
DK: What has been the best home game for Whitton so far?
JB: Last season a 2-0 win over Stowmarket at home was a great result. With Histon also in the league they were unlucky not to go up, but with their squad it was a great win!
DK: What was the best home game whilst you were at Rovers?
JB: We gave a great account of ourselves against Needham Market who fielded a strong side against us in my first game. But the 6-2 win against Godmanchester Rovers was probably the best in my time there.
DK: What was the best away game whilst you were at Bury?
JB: 3-2 away at Cornard was a good hard thought win, 6-0 win away at Witham but the win away at Felixstowe in the Suffolk cup was as we mentioned the best of them all
DK: What was the best away game whilst you were at Rovers?
JB: The best away game with Haverhill was Mildenhall away midweek winning 2-1 with a big crowd and I think their first loss at home in a long while.
DK: What has been the best away game for Whitton so far?
JB: At Whitton that’s an easy one, 1-1 away at Stowmarket, also beating Woodbridge in my first game back is up there.
DK: First off, what inspired you to become a coach?
JB: The thing that inspired me to be a coach the most was always believing that things could be done better. At most clubs I played for as a child I always felt things could be better, the training, matchdays, team mates and everything could be better - especially in terms of effort and desire. When I turned up pre season with ex Gillingham legend and Man City player Rob Taylor as manager and still thinking of ways things could be better, I should’ve realised then that I was going to coach and manage in football very quickly haha.
DK: Talk us through your coaching career so far and how you've found it so far?
JB: I fell into it at first while playing Saturday’s and Sundays through injury, as said above I turned up pre season at Diss Town and struggled with my knee and Sundays played for my local village Burston who were going to fold at the end of that season. By the end of that season I was assisting Diss Reserves and managing Burston to save them from folding and that was it I loved it. That quickly escalated into the Anglian Combination league with Redgrave assisting Charlie Nevitt who’s one of the best people I’ve met or worked with below semi professional football, his passion for the game, number of years at the club while running his own business (our local sports shop) was amazing.
From there I moved onto Scole United where the first team had real success seeing promotions from Anglian combination div 2, to div 1 and the to the Prem plus a Norfolk Junior Cup Final at Carrow road. I definitely at a young age learned from Jimmy Last in that time, his demand of high standards and discipline, was instantly respected and born a winner in anything he does. As well as first team success we had a thriving reserves and added an “a” team I supported creation of to bring the strong youth setup at the time into the first team quicker.
From there I had a year out to watch as many coaches as possible, began two years of full time work with Norwich City as an elite development coach and really network.
My next move was one of the most successful moves of my career in football so far. After meeting with the chairman Russell Ward and at the time new first team manager Ben Chenery I was quickly appointed the task of building as manager a Bury Town U18s team in for their first time in 8 years. A season to build, a season of huge success going unbeaten (other than to full time academy AFC Sudbury) for 19 months was an achievement, and a season of rebuilding for what they have in place now.
Within a month of leaving Bury I teamed up with Shane Coldron and Robbie Knott as first team coach at Whitton United for the reminder of that season, I loved the experience with the squad and how welcome I was at the time. We climbed the league really quickly in that spell.
This was followed by an appointment at Haverhill Rovers, a club I saw massive potential in. I came in as assistant to Fergus O’Callaghan and within a few months was appointed first team manager. The remit was believed to build a younger squad, with as many local players as possible and the targets were seemingly long term. My spell there doesn’t look covered in success and glory, but we played the top sides in the league, received many compliments for the way we played and potential of the squad. I have too much respect for the people there to into details but one day I may talk more about the underlying problems. I appreciated the opportunity to manage at step 5 by 26 years old and will forever be in contact with Ali Shulver and Pete Betts for giving that to me.
That finally brings me onto my current role back to Whitton United as first team coach. I had a number of opportunities after Haverhill but felt I owed it to Shane to come and give a longer stint with him. Whitton had not won in 10 games and I could see in the squad real potential. We went 12 games without losing and looked before this outbreak that a top 6 finish would’ve been a fair reflection of the squad at the very least. Whitton is proud to be a more unfashionable club, it sounds funny but it brings a togetherness and a family feel, a club and people that work hard and love spending time together. I look forward to every training session and every match and with Shane and the best of the squad staying together I hope their success continues.
DK: What is the highlight of your coaching career so far?
JB: That’s a tough question, walking out with an unbelievable team at Colchester United with Bury Town U18s was one of the proudest, I’d never coached in youth football and to finish a season like that is something I won’t forget. I’ve loved everywhere I’ve been for different reasons but having the relationship I did with the chairman and seeing two busses and hundreds more supporters there with smiles on a boiling day was definitely a highlight.
DK: What was it like to coach at a professional ground?
JB: I've had experience at a few professional grounds with other clubs and working for Norwich. But to be the manager, after building a new side, with so many local “Bury boys” and their pride made it. Colchester United treated us with real respect with a tour the night before and players lounge after the game etc was first class. I won’t forget it.
DK: That season overall was extremely successful as you mentioned, other than that Cup final what was your highlight of it?
JB: Drew this is where you come into my story, after the quarter final at Felixstowe where I felt there was unnecessary behaviour with supporters running onto the pitch and into my dugout etc so to win that and top it off with the players letting you in to really celebrate with the players was a great moment. Of course the reaction in the semi final and some heavy wins also up there.
DK: What is the best ground you've coached at and why?
JB: If I break it down a bit, with Norwich at MK dons was a great experience, if you haven’t been to the ground google it, it’s like a bowl and holds over 30,000.
At Bury Colchester United as we spoke about was the best being the only pro ground we played at and how we were treated.
In terms of non league ground Ram Meadow was home and it’s only stand and tunnel I’ll always love, but BEST ground probably has to be Kings Lynn, very close to a professional ground and the way they’re going they probably soon will be.
DK: What was it like working for Norwich being a supporter of the club?
JB: Working for the club your support bring your heart into it and you have a connection with everything you do. I’ve found in my career though that I put my heart and everything into any club I step into so although I support them, whatever club I’m with becomes the team I support and love very quickly.
DK: What was the highlight from your time at Norwich?
JB: From a personal point of view doing my Talent ID level two with all academy staff in a room for a week with so many ex Norwich players and my childhood heroes sharing their memories and knowledge was amazing. Seeing the premier league grounds and training grounds and pre season tours etc were fun but that was probably my highlight.
DK: What was the best team you played whilst at Norwich?
JB: National Premier League tournament which was held in Leicester, we played Man City, Tottenham and Chelsea who were all equally unbelievable, if I had to choose 1 Chelsea were relentless.
DK: Going back to Bury briefly, what was your favourite home game during your time at the club?
JB: Talk about Bury as much as you like, I’d love to hear your opinion too as you were with us all the while but 9-0 at home to Brantham and 12-2 a week later to FC Clacton the 2nd and 3rd games of the season. I’d say the 12-2 as we scored more second half than the first, Robbie Hunter coming off the bench to score a quick hattrick. The game vs Sudbury although we lost 3-2 we were 2-0 up with two great goals and had to take first team players off the pitch in final minutes causing a loss in the end but a great game with a big crowd.
DK: Do you think there's a difference between the different levels of coaching (ie professional youth, youth at non league and senior non league)
JB: Yes definitely, academy football has the luxury of full time coaching so the levels are high and facilities amazing, in non league youth football you’re fitting as much as you can into much lower training hours. Some of the academy players struggle when they drop into non league or non academy football. Senior Football then becomes result based whereas youth football must be development based, trying to improve players as footballers and as people to have them ready for senior football. Personally I get the most enjoyment from senior football where the focus is on the team and learning to win matches.
DK: Whilst coaching at senior level what's been your highlight so far?
JB: There’s been a few, the earlier years are hard to forget being involved in promotions at a young age. A late equaliser against Stowmarket with Whitton United is up there. Jacob Lay has been doing some 1-2-1 sessions with me along side team training and smashed one in the top corner late on against league leaders was a highlight. Naming Leroy Lita as my assistant manager, more than the training was the knowledge and conversation around the team and myself. Beating Mildenhall at their place with Haverhill in a smash and grab another. If I had to pick one I’d pick the first.
DK: What was it like being able to work alongside Leroy? How it that come about?
JB: Leroy is probably the favourite player Norwich have EVER had on loan, I reached out to him when he retired and he was amazing in getting involved in youth section as well as first team. It was a pleasure to have conversations with someone who’s spent time in the premier league and football league, the detail and information shared were on another level. As well as a great player, joining in with training he’s a humble and friendly guy, we still keep in regular contact now.
DK: What is it like managing in Thurlow Nunn Premier?
JB: It’s a good league to manage in, there’s many players who have come down from a higher level, managers that have played professional or higher level semi pro football and to try yourself against these kinds of people is why I’m in the game.
DK: What was your highlight during your time at Haverhill?
JB: A big win vs Godmanchester rovers at home, Tyger Smalls scoring the best goal I’ve ever had scored for my team in a late winner against Thetford Town you’ve probably seen online was a moment, the cheer for the goal was really, really loud, like much louder than normal! But if I picked one then probably the Mildenhall Win as it was away from home and I think they’d been a long time without losing at home.
DK: Other than the Stow game, what's been your highlight from your overall time at Whitton?
JB: Overall, coming back for the second spell and going 12 games unbeaten if I can choose a long highlight, at any level that’s an exceptional run. We really felt unbeatable in that run, the last time I had that was of course at Bury.
DK: How do you reflect on the season overall from both a personal and team perspective (whilst involved with Rovers & Whitton though)?
JB: I think on both fronts it’s hard not to feel disappointed. The side we built at Haverhill with long term objectives, small budget and massive potential was a job that become untenable, but was the beginning of something special. The opportunity and experience I loved, I was at the club most days to get involved with as much of everything below the first team as I possibly could and I wouldn’t change a thing. The disappointment to finish the season early with Whitton and not be given the change to finish at the very least in the top 6 which was more than achievable for that squad. However I don’t do regrets, I put 100% into the season and got the same in return through experience and some success.
DK: Overall who is the best player you've coached so far and why?
JB: Difficult question as best can be taken in different ways as in potential, experience, bravery or so many ways to judge it.
In terms of experience seeing John Kennedy in pre season at Bury Town coming first in all fitness tests and running is exceptional. At Whitton Scott Marjoram is still one of the best CB’s in the league and never seems to have a bad game, same for Tom Bradlaugh and Kev Inglis all with unbelievable ability and experience.
Best potential I have to look at so many of that cup final side at Bury with Harry Moore, Josh Revell, Oli Selfe, Charlie Cook, Michael Bett, Joe Keylock and all involved in that season. Tyger Smalls will have been failed if he doesn’t get an opportunity at pro football. Max Dinnell is also someone who although had a taste of academy football has slipped under the radar and if he keeps working hard has a real chance to go further in the game than even he might believe. The boy can find gaps for passes that most can’t, tackles, works harder than most and scores goals too.
I still give the same answer when asked the best player I’ve worked with and it hasn’t changed with Tommy Robinson. His technical ability, body shape and intelligence beyond his years, impossible to tackle and given the opportunity WILL play a lot, lot higher than he has so far. Wants to learn and improve, sets high standards and rightfully captain of my side too.
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've coached so far and why?
JB: When you’ve achieved things with a group it’s hard to leave any out, and so many more will deserve to be in this squad! Some of these are based on having played for me for longer than others or particular achievements.
GK - Michael Bett - Was playing up a year at 18s early and instrumental in reaching the final. James Young and Toby Egan both incredible too.
LB - Henry Hall - A defender that wants to play in modern football is becoming a must. Quick, tall and would love to be in love island.
CB - Scott Marjoram - easiest choice, experienced, calm and so consistent. Wants to come off every game from 70th minute though.
CB - Alfie Carroll - demands high standards from the squad, dressing room leader, so versatile in position. Hadleigh away didn’t happen.
RB - Josh Revell - I’m another to include Josh in this role without it being his best position. Technically gifted, loves a 60 yard ping and 30 yard strike. Awful sideburns.
CDM - Tom Bradlaugh - not just the best I’ve coached in this role but one of the best I’ve seen at this level. Composed on the ball, another good leader who wants to win.
CM - Tommy Robinson - impossible to tackle, read above for more. Can he pass?
CM - Max Dinnell - played over 50 games at step 5 and 6 before turning 18. Can pass, shoot and run, good in and out of possession. Awful at being subbed off.
LW - Jacob Lay - Athletic, strong and works hard to improve. Smart guy 👀
RW - Tyger Smalls - can play a number of positions, ball sticks to his foot and has potential to reach incredible heights. Defending? 🤔
CF - Jay Cole - creates goals for himself with his own hard work, pace and ability to finish in many ways.
Subs:
Adam Dunnage - should be in the squad above and ask me again with another year working with him and he will be. Another CB that can play, head and tackle. Loves a red and love island.
Harry and Liam Wales - naming them together to get an extra spot. Liam brining experience from high leagues ability to twist and then to create goals, Harry a commanding CB one of the best I’ve ever seen in the air.
Harry Moore - was unfortunate at Haverhill with injury followed by my departure but showed he can play at step 5 already and with more belief in himself will be seen in higher leagues too. Definitely has a perm.
Kev Inglis - I can only wish I’d seen this guy in his prime, still class now and would improve most sides in the league. Loves referees.
Kieran Michaels - again if I’d managed this lad longer he’s good enough to fit in the squad above. Ex Colchester, great character, good coach and footballer with real understanding. Excited to see him climb the leagues. Not a right back.
Josh Hubert - big tackler, strong, can play a number of positions well and another who’s played literally hundreds of games at step 5 and 6 and still younger than most would think!
DK: From your time at Bury what was the best goal one of your players scored?
JB: Wow we scored so many goals that season, Tommy Robinson’s Free kick against Sudbury, absolute worldie! Oli Selfe away at Clacton full volly across goal into top left, rocket. Cameron Smith away at Witham 20+ yards top corner. Josh Revell free kick vs Cambridge United I’ve got the photo of the ball right up in the corner too. I think because of the game and being the opening goal I’d pick the first, you’ll remember it, can hear your scream in celebration from here 😂. Not forgetting Charlie Cook scoring the second with a ridiculous follow from 25ish yards over the keeper vs Sudbury!
DK: What would be the top 3 goals your Haverhill players scored during your spell over there?
JB: We actually had a habit of scoring good goals!
Easy number 1 - Tyger Smalls again find his Twitter it went viral and shared by talksport and all sorts. Josh Revell has already scored a screamer but Tyger flicks it over the defenders head and volleys it rocketing in off the crossbar in one quick move, if a pro did that in the premier league it would be up there with goal of the season still!
2 - Kieran Michaels - 30+ yards out given space takes one touch and arrows it top corner.
3 - Josh Revell had two equally good vs Godmanchester and Thetford both well outside the area, keeper off the line and glided in top corners.
DK: Top goal from your time at Whitton so far?
JB: I’m terrible at remembering goals but can’t ask others at Whitton if you want 3 haha.
Very easy one Jacob Lay vs Stowmarket, cut in on right foot outside the box and curls it into the top right!
DK: What aims do you have looking forward?
JB: I set a goal that keeps me wanting more, my aim is always to progress as high up the footballing ladder as my own success and drive allows me to. Of coarse I set and get set shorter term goals along the way but that’s always my objective.
It’s important for me to remain true to myself, remain someone with a big heart for the game and for other people. I want to make people happy, a sense of belonging as well as push them to achieve as much success in their own careers as possible.
DK: What is the highest scoring game you've been involved in?
JB: And as a manager 12-2 win vs FC Clacton. I actually prefer more competitive games than a steam rolling but I guess it’s good for the confidence.
But as a player I have to mention an 11-0 win where I scored 6.
DK: What has been the best home game for Whitton so far?
JB: Last season a 2-0 win over Stowmarket at home was a great result. With Histon also in the league they were unlucky not to go up, but with their squad it was a great win!
DK: What was the best home game whilst you were at Rovers?
JB: We gave a great account of ourselves against Needham Market who fielded a strong side against us in my first game. But the 6-2 win against Godmanchester Rovers was probably the best in my time there.
DK: What was the best away game whilst you were at Bury?
JB: 3-2 away at Cornard was a good hard thought win, 6-0 win away at Witham but the win away at Felixstowe in the Suffolk cup was as we mentioned the best of them all
DK: What was the best away game whilst you were at Rovers?
JB: The best away game with Haverhill was Mildenhall away midweek winning 2-1 with a big crowd and I think their first loss at home in a long while.
DK: What has been the best away game for Whitton so far?
JB: At Whitton that’s an easy one, 1-1 away at Stowmarket, also beating Woodbridge in my first game back is up there.
Saturday, 25 April 2020
INTERVIEW: George Bugg (Goalkeeper)
Bury Town goalkeeper George Bugg talks about his career at Bury Town so far.
Quickfire questions-
Favourite hot Drink? Tea
Favourite soft drink? Fanta grape
Favourite Food? Stake and chips
Favourite Takeaway? KFC
Favourite TV SHOW? Friday Night Dinner
Favourite Film? Shawshank Redemption
Favourite game? Pro Clubs
XBOX Or PlayStation? PlayStation
Favourite sport other than football and why?
Golf because it’s the best sport in the world.
DK: What professional team do you support and why?
GB: Spurs because would be boring winning trophy’s.
DK: Who's your favourite professional player and why?
GB: Gareth bale because he’s unplayable on his day.
DK: What's the best game you've watched live and why?
GB: Spurs 9-0 vs Wigan, because I’ve never seen so many goals live!
DK: If you could relive any sporting moment from any time in person what would you pick and why?
GB: When England won the World Cup in 1966 as we’ll never do it again.
DK: If you could pick any two professional footballers from any time to play alongside who would you pick and why?
GB: Paul Gascoigne and Maradona as they’d be a laugh on a team night out.
DK: What's the best ground you've played at so far and why?
GB: Loftus road as it’s the only pro stadium I’ve played in.
DK: If you could play at any ground anywhere in the world what one would you pick and why?
GB: Spurs new stadium as it’s the best stadium in the world.
DK: How do you reflect on your time at Bury so far?
GB: It’s been a good introduction to first team football but need to stop getting injured and losing my head.
DK: What's been the highlight of your time at Bury so far and why?
GB: My debut at home keeping a clean sheet winning 1-0.
DK: How do you reflect on the season just gone from both a personal and team perspective?
GB: From a personal perspective it’s been frustrating as I’ve barely played but as a team we had a great start and a shame for the season not to finish to see if we could’ve made play offs.
DK: You've been involved in the club for a few years all in all, so what did it mean to you to make your first team debut?
GB: It was a good moment for me being my home town team so it was really good.
DK: What targets do you have looking forward?
GB: Hoping to get the chance to show I’m ready to start each week.
DK: How does playing for the first team differ to playing for the U23s?
GB: I’d say the first is more competitive and the standard is obviously higher but the u23’s is good to get minutes.
DK: If you could relive any previous game for any Bury team you played for (Team Bury, U23s, first team) what one would you pick and why?
GB: I’d probably say my first team debut again, I loved it.
DK: Who's the best player you've played alongside so far and why?
GB: Jack Lankester, me and him grew up together and has always been unreal.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
GB: I’d probably say drogbas son back at u10’s he was unreal.
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've played alongside so far and why?
GB: Luis Tibbles in net as similar to me he isn’t the tallest but doesn’t affect his game, good shot stopper and great distribution.
Right back, Ryan Stafford such a consistent footballer, been great this season.
Centre halves, Kyran Clements and joe white. Kyran is a good defender and scored a fair few too. Joe has paid me to be in this team.
Lb, Ryan Jolland, got a temper which I rate and his groins and hips are in a great state.
Cdm Brett McGavin, never seen him lose the ball.
Cm Ryan Horne, the most professional player I know lives and breathed football and fitnes
Cam Tommy Robinson, Great technique off both feet and loves a reverse pass.
Lw Olly Hughes, dead banter but never stops running.
St Tanner Call, such a small man but he’s a player.
Rw Jack Lankester, as previously mentioned he’s a great player.
DK: If you could pick an XI of your all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick and why?
GB: Casillas as he’s probably one of the best gk’s in history
Rb Phillip lahm think he was a great player
Cb Ledly king was a great player but could’ve been even better if he didn’t have his knee injury’s
Cb John terry, a lot of people don’t like him but I think he was one of the best defenders England have had
Lb roberto Carlos for the pings
Cdm kante seems like there’s 3 of him on the pitch
Cm Modric one the best midfielders spurs have ever had
Cam Gascoigne great player and funny guy
Front 3 of Bale Messi and Ronaldo don’t need to say anything about them.
DK: If you could play with any sportsman from another sport who would you pick and why?
GB: Phil Mickelson because he’s a great golfer and could do with a few lessons.
Quickfire questions-
Favourite hot Drink? Tea
Favourite soft drink? Fanta grape
Favourite Food? Stake and chips
Favourite Takeaway? KFC
Favourite TV SHOW? Friday Night Dinner
Favourite Film? Shawshank Redemption
Favourite game? Pro Clubs
XBOX Or PlayStation? PlayStation
Favourite sport other than football and why?
Golf because it’s the best sport in the world.
DK: What professional team do you support and why?
GB: Spurs because would be boring winning trophy’s.
DK: Who's your favourite professional player and why?
GB: Gareth bale because he’s unplayable on his day.
DK: What's the best game you've watched live and why?
GB: Spurs 9-0 vs Wigan, because I’ve never seen so many goals live!
DK: If you could relive any sporting moment from any time in person what would you pick and why?
GB: When England won the World Cup in 1966 as we’ll never do it again.
DK: If you could pick any two professional footballers from any time to play alongside who would you pick and why?
GB: Paul Gascoigne and Maradona as they’d be a laugh on a team night out.
DK: What's the best ground you've played at so far and why?
GB: Loftus road as it’s the only pro stadium I’ve played in.
DK: If you could play at any ground anywhere in the world what one would you pick and why?
GB: Spurs new stadium as it’s the best stadium in the world.
DK: How do you reflect on your time at Bury so far?
GB: It’s been a good introduction to first team football but need to stop getting injured and losing my head.
DK: What's been the highlight of your time at Bury so far and why?
GB: My debut at home keeping a clean sheet winning 1-0.
DK: How do you reflect on the season just gone from both a personal and team perspective?
GB: From a personal perspective it’s been frustrating as I’ve barely played but as a team we had a great start and a shame for the season not to finish to see if we could’ve made play offs.
DK: You've been involved in the club for a few years all in all, so what did it mean to you to make your first team debut?
GB: It was a good moment for me being my home town team so it was really good.
DK: What targets do you have looking forward?
GB: Hoping to get the chance to show I’m ready to start each week.
DK: How does playing for the first team differ to playing for the U23s?
GB: I’d say the first is more competitive and the standard is obviously higher but the u23’s is good to get minutes.
DK: If you could relive any previous game for any Bury team you played for (Team Bury, U23s, first team) what one would you pick and why?
GB: I’d probably say my first team debut again, I loved it.
DK: Who's the best player you've played alongside so far and why?
GB: Jack Lankester, me and him grew up together and has always been unreal.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
GB: I’d probably say drogbas son back at u10’s he was unreal.
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've played alongside so far and why?
GB: Luis Tibbles in net as similar to me he isn’t the tallest but doesn’t affect his game, good shot stopper and great distribution.
Right back, Ryan Stafford such a consistent footballer, been great this season.
Centre halves, Kyran Clements and joe white. Kyran is a good defender and scored a fair few too. Joe has paid me to be in this team.
Lb, Ryan Jolland, got a temper which I rate and his groins and hips are in a great state.
Cdm Brett McGavin, never seen him lose the ball.
Cm Ryan Horne, the most professional player I know lives and breathed football and fitnes
Cam Tommy Robinson, Great technique off both feet and loves a reverse pass.
Lw Olly Hughes, dead banter but never stops running.
St Tanner Call, such a small man but he’s a player.
Rw Jack Lankester, as previously mentioned he’s a great player.
DK: If you could pick an XI of your all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick and why?
GB: Casillas as he’s probably one of the best gk’s in history
Rb Phillip lahm think he was a great player
Cb Ledly king was a great player but could’ve been even better if he didn’t have his knee injury’s
Cb John terry, a lot of people don’t like him but I think he was one of the best defenders England have had
Lb roberto Carlos for the pings
Cdm kante seems like there’s 3 of him on the pitch
Cm Modric one the best midfielders spurs have ever had
Cam Gascoigne great player and funny guy
Front 3 of Bale Messi and Ronaldo don’t need to say anything about them.
DK: If you could play with any sportsman from another sport who would you pick and why?
GB: Phil Mickelson because he’s a great golfer and could do with a few lessons.
Friday, 24 April 2020
INTERVIEW: Joe Hogg
Bury Town's Joe Hogg discusses playing for Bury at youth level, playing for the club's U23s and being involved in the first team.
Quickfire Questions
Favourite hot Drink? Can’t beat a cuppa tea
Favourite cold drink? Cherry coke
Coke or Pepsi? Coke
Favourite food? Chicken
Favourite takeaway? Chinese all day long
Favourite TV Show? Money heist
Favourite Film? Wolf of Wall Street, classic
Favourite game? Not really a game player these days but I’d have to say fifa
XBOX or PlayStation? Xbox all day
Favourite sport other than football and why?
Basketball. Love the intensity and excitement of it. Only other sport I follow really
DK: Which professional team do you support and why?
JH: West Ham. Most people follow their dads team but I’ve actually followed my mum here haha. Had a season ticket for about 14/15 years before committing to Bury last season.
DK: Who's your favourite professional player and why?
JH: Mark Noble. Not necessarily for his talent but he’s played for West Ham his whole career and now captains his boyhood club. Safe to say he’s living my dream.
DK: What's the best game you've watched live and why?
JH: West Ham 3-2 Man United. Final game at the Boleyn, the way we went down 2-1 and came back to win 3-2 in the final minutes was incredible. Whole mixture of emotions but when Reid scores I couldn’t even tell you how I was feeling, was definitely a fairytale ending for the stadium.
DK: Who's the best player you've seen live and why?
JH: Lionel Messi. Played a friendly at Upton Park once for Argentina and even tho he wasn’t 100% trying, to see the best playing to ever play football live and in the flesh was brilliant. Scored a pen right in front of me too.
DK: If you could pick any two current or former professional footballers to play alongside who would you pick and why?
JH: Lionel Messi, I'd just give him the ball and let him do the rest. And probably Pirlo, his composure and technically ability is frightening.
DK: If you could relive any sporting moment from any time in person what would you pick and why?
JH: Either the 3-2 win for the final game of the Boleyn, or 2-1 in the play off final against Blackpool, seeing Vaz Te plant it in the roof of the net was an unreal sight to see.
DK: If you could play at any ground which one would you pick and why?
JH: Probably Dortmund’s. Yellow wall is class.
DK: What's the best ground you've played at so far and why?
JH: Never actually played at any professional grounds, so I’d have to say Bowers & Pitsea. Pitch was unreal and the stadium was nice.
DK: How do you reflect on your overall time at Bury so far?
JH: It’s been brilliant. Was weird training with some players that I was watching from the side last year but they’re all great lads, can’t fault any of them. As a player I can really feel myself growing and becoming a better player.
DK: You won the U18 I&SYFL the season previous for Bury, tell us a bit about that?
JH: It was great! Think we all expected to win it if I’m honest. But just a season of enjoying football and playing with my mates. Think I probably got about 20 minutes a game and still managed to scrape 10 goals from holding midfield. Which is impressive for someone who doesn’t leave the centre circle!
DK: What was the highlight of that season?
JH: Probably playing the final game at ram meadow where we were presented to the trophy. We had already won it but to play down the ram was a great occasion.
DK: What was it like to be the only Bury side to have their name on that trophy?
JH: I didn’t even know that to be honest! That’s a brilliant accomplishment. It was our gaffers last season as a manager after god knows how many years so we wanted to smash the league, safe to say we did.
DK: How do you reflect on the season just gone from both a personal and team perspective?
JH: Personally it’s been great. Been very tough as it’s my first season at a proper football club but I’ve loved learning and improving. To get a few first team apps was great as I never expected to be anywhere near the first team. From the teams perspective I think it’s been a very positive season. The team have been up there in the title race the whole season and with the amount of injuries, you can’t look at it anything less than positive.
DK: If you could pick one standout memory from this season what would you pick and why?
JH: Personally it would have to be Coggeshall in the cup, coming on last 5 and making my debut. For the team it would have to be Histon at home. Don’t even know what happened in them final minutes but seeing Cemal slot the penalty away created a great feeling. Dressing room after the game was nuts.
DK: Do you have any targets looking forward to next season, if so what are they?
JH: Of course the main goal is to try and break into the first team and try and get as many games in as I can, if not I’d just like to play as much football as I can at a good level to get me ready for America the following year.
DK: Who's the best player you've played alongside so far and why?
JH: Would have to be Jake Chambers Shaw or Ross Crane. Shawrys feet are just ridiculous he’s impossible to tackle. Craneys such a tricky player and has shown he can play in most positions on the pitch. The fact he’s only 17 still baffles me.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against so far and why?
JH: Has to be Hamza Kaid from Maldon. Only played 15/20 minutes against him but he ran me ragged.
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've played alongside so far and why?
JH: Gk- George Bugg, great shot stopper and great communicator, makes my job easier
Rb- Ryan Stafford, one of the most consistent players I’ve seen
Cb- Kerrin Lawrence, quick, tall, loves a tackle, would literally head a brick if you chucked one at him
CB- Joe Hood, played Cb when I played with him but his composure and passing range is frightening, most composed player on the ball ive played with.
Lb- Ross Crane, so quick and really good with his feet, have to stick him here to fit everyone in
Cm- Max Maughn, brilliant on the ball, can easily see why he’s been at professional clubs
Cm- Charlie Cook, such a tricky player to tackle, even tho you know he loves his left foot you never know which way he’s going
Cm- Ryan Horne, one of the most physically fit players I’ve seen, dictates every game he plays in, could easily play higher if he wanted to
Am- Jake Chambers Shaw, impossible to tackle, so tricky with his feet. I’d say best 10 in the league
St- Cruise Nyadzayo, absolute power house, his explosiveness is insane and loves a strike from 25 yards
St- Jarid Robson, just constantly runs. I remember my first training session I had to mark him and half the time I didn’t know where he was
I’d love to put Hughsey or Cemal in here but I don’t think I’ve played with either of them.
DK: If you could name an XI of your all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick and why?
JH: Gk, Buffon- career says it all
Rb, Dani alves- most trophies anyone’s ever won
Cb, bobby moore- only English captain to win a World Cup and West Ham legend
Cb, Vincent Kompany- brilliant defender and great captain
Lb, Roberto Carlos- that free kick says it all
Dm, Andreas Pirlo- composure on the ball was insane and could spot a pass out of no where
Cm, Mark Noble- not for his talent but like I said, my favourite player
Rm, david Beckham- his career has been so good and talent wise one of the best right pegs you’ll ever see
Lm, Dimitri Payet- broke my heart when he left but that season at West Ham was incredible. Came like 18th in the balon d’or I think
St, Paulo Di Canio- another West Ham legend, done incredible things with a football
St, Lionel Messi- best player to ever play football.
DK: If you could name an XI of your all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick and why?
JH: Gk, Buffon- career says it all
Rb, Dani alves- most trophies anyone’s ever won
Cb, bobby moore- only English captain to win a World Cup and West Ham legend
Cb, Vincent Kompany- brilliant defender and great captain
Lb, Roberto Carlos- that free kick says it all
Dm, Andreas Pirlo- composure on the ball was insane and could spot a pass out of no where
Cm, Mark Noble- not for his talent but like I said, my favourite player
Rm, david Beckham- his career has been so good and talent wise one of the best right pegs you’ll ever see
Lm, Dimitri Payet- broke my heart when he left but that season at West Ham was incredible. Came like 18th in the balon d’or I think
St, Paulo Di Canio- another West Ham legend, done incredible things with a football
St, Lionel Messi- best player to ever play football.
DK: If you could play football with any 2 professional sportsmen (who didn't play football) and who would you pick and why?
JH: LeBron James, the goat of basketball. And Usain Bolt, just hit the channels and let him run.
Quickfire Questions
Favourite hot Drink? Can’t beat a cuppa tea
Favourite cold drink? Cherry coke
Coke or Pepsi? Coke
Favourite food? Chicken
Favourite takeaway? Chinese all day long
Favourite TV Show? Money heist
Favourite Film? Wolf of Wall Street, classic
Favourite game? Not really a game player these days but I’d have to say fifa
XBOX or PlayStation? Xbox all day
Favourite sport other than football and why?
Basketball. Love the intensity and excitement of it. Only other sport I follow really
DK: Which professional team do you support and why?
JH: West Ham. Most people follow their dads team but I’ve actually followed my mum here haha. Had a season ticket for about 14/15 years before committing to Bury last season.
DK: Who's your favourite professional player and why?
JH: Mark Noble. Not necessarily for his talent but he’s played for West Ham his whole career and now captains his boyhood club. Safe to say he’s living my dream.
DK: What's the best game you've watched live and why?
JH: West Ham 3-2 Man United. Final game at the Boleyn, the way we went down 2-1 and came back to win 3-2 in the final minutes was incredible. Whole mixture of emotions but when Reid scores I couldn’t even tell you how I was feeling, was definitely a fairytale ending for the stadium.
DK: Who's the best player you've seen live and why?
JH: Lionel Messi. Played a friendly at Upton Park once for Argentina and even tho he wasn’t 100% trying, to see the best playing to ever play football live and in the flesh was brilliant. Scored a pen right in front of me too.
DK: If you could pick any two current or former professional footballers to play alongside who would you pick and why?
JH: Lionel Messi, I'd just give him the ball and let him do the rest. And probably Pirlo, his composure and technically ability is frightening.
DK: If you could relive any sporting moment from any time in person what would you pick and why?
JH: Either the 3-2 win for the final game of the Boleyn, or 2-1 in the play off final against Blackpool, seeing Vaz Te plant it in the roof of the net was an unreal sight to see.
DK: If you could play at any ground which one would you pick and why?
JH: Probably Dortmund’s. Yellow wall is class.
DK: What's the best ground you've played at so far and why?
JH: Never actually played at any professional grounds, so I’d have to say Bowers & Pitsea. Pitch was unreal and the stadium was nice.
DK: How do you reflect on your overall time at Bury so far?
JH: It’s been brilliant. Was weird training with some players that I was watching from the side last year but they’re all great lads, can’t fault any of them. As a player I can really feel myself growing and becoming a better player.
DK: You won the U18 I&SYFL the season previous for Bury, tell us a bit about that?
JH: It was great! Think we all expected to win it if I’m honest. But just a season of enjoying football and playing with my mates. Think I probably got about 20 minutes a game and still managed to scrape 10 goals from holding midfield. Which is impressive for someone who doesn’t leave the centre circle!
DK: What was the highlight of that season?
JH: Probably playing the final game at ram meadow where we were presented to the trophy. We had already won it but to play down the ram was a great occasion.
DK: What was it like to be the only Bury side to have their name on that trophy?
JH: I didn’t even know that to be honest! That’s a brilliant accomplishment. It was our gaffers last season as a manager after god knows how many years so we wanted to smash the league, safe to say we did.
DK: How do you reflect on the season just gone from both a personal and team perspective?
JH: Personally it’s been great. Been very tough as it’s my first season at a proper football club but I’ve loved learning and improving. To get a few first team apps was great as I never expected to be anywhere near the first team. From the teams perspective I think it’s been a very positive season. The team have been up there in the title race the whole season and with the amount of injuries, you can’t look at it anything less than positive.
DK: If you could pick one standout memory from this season what would you pick and why?
JH: Personally it would have to be Coggeshall in the cup, coming on last 5 and making my debut. For the team it would have to be Histon at home. Don’t even know what happened in them final minutes but seeing Cemal slot the penalty away created a great feeling. Dressing room after the game was nuts.
DK: Do you have any targets looking forward to next season, if so what are they?
JH: Of course the main goal is to try and break into the first team and try and get as many games in as I can, if not I’d just like to play as much football as I can at a good level to get me ready for America the following year.
DK: Who's the best player you've played alongside so far and why?
JH: Would have to be Jake Chambers Shaw or Ross Crane. Shawrys feet are just ridiculous he’s impossible to tackle. Craneys such a tricky player and has shown he can play in most positions on the pitch. The fact he’s only 17 still baffles me.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against so far and why?
JH: Has to be Hamza Kaid from Maldon. Only played 15/20 minutes against him but he ran me ragged.
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've played alongside so far and why?
JH: Gk- George Bugg, great shot stopper and great communicator, makes my job easier
Rb- Ryan Stafford, one of the most consistent players I’ve seen
Cb- Kerrin Lawrence, quick, tall, loves a tackle, would literally head a brick if you chucked one at him
CB- Joe Hood, played Cb when I played with him but his composure and passing range is frightening, most composed player on the ball ive played with.
Lb- Ross Crane, so quick and really good with his feet, have to stick him here to fit everyone in
Cm- Max Maughn, brilliant on the ball, can easily see why he’s been at professional clubs
Cm- Charlie Cook, such a tricky player to tackle, even tho you know he loves his left foot you never know which way he’s going
Cm- Ryan Horne, one of the most physically fit players I’ve seen, dictates every game he plays in, could easily play higher if he wanted to
Am- Jake Chambers Shaw, impossible to tackle, so tricky with his feet. I’d say best 10 in the league
St- Cruise Nyadzayo, absolute power house, his explosiveness is insane and loves a strike from 25 yards
St- Jarid Robson, just constantly runs. I remember my first training session I had to mark him and half the time I didn’t know where he was
I’d love to put Hughsey or Cemal in here but I don’t think I’ve played with either of them.
DK: If you could name an XI of your all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick and why?
JH: Gk, Buffon- career says it all
Rb, Dani alves- most trophies anyone’s ever won
Cb, bobby moore- only English captain to win a World Cup and West Ham legend
Cb, Vincent Kompany- brilliant defender and great captain
Lb, Roberto Carlos- that free kick says it all
Dm, Andreas Pirlo- composure on the ball was insane and could spot a pass out of no where
Cm, Mark Noble- not for his talent but like I said, my favourite player
Rm, david Beckham- his career has been so good and talent wise one of the best right pegs you’ll ever see
Lm, Dimitri Payet- broke my heart when he left but that season at West Ham was incredible. Came like 18th in the balon d’or I think
St, Paulo Di Canio- another West Ham legend, done incredible things with a football
St, Lionel Messi- best player to ever play football.
DK: If you could name an XI of your all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick and why?
JH: Gk, Buffon- career says it all
Rb, Dani alves- most trophies anyone’s ever won
Cb, bobby moore- only English captain to win a World Cup and West Ham legend
Cb, Vincent Kompany- brilliant defender and great captain
Lb, Roberto Carlos- that free kick says it all
Dm, Andreas Pirlo- composure on the ball was insane and could spot a pass out of no where
Cm, Mark Noble- not for his talent but like I said, my favourite player
Rm, david Beckham- his career has been so good and talent wise one of the best right pegs you’ll ever see
Lm, Dimitri Payet- broke my heart when he left but that season at West Ham was incredible. Came like 18th in the balon d’or I think
St, Paulo Di Canio- another West Ham legend, done incredible things with a football
St, Lionel Messi- best player to ever play football.
DK: If you could play football with any 2 professional sportsmen (who didn't play football) and who would you pick and why?
JH: LeBron James, the goat of basketball. And Usain Bolt, just hit the channels and let him run.
Thursday, 23 April 2020
GROUNDHOPPING ARCHIVES: ON THIS DAY, 23 APRIL
Time for an on this day post. April 23rd has provided some great action for me looking back, with 3 non league games in the last 4 years. Here's a look back at all those. First of all a link to last year's is HERE, whilst the full report I did from the 2018 game will be added below but have done a shorter one now, depending on what you'd rather read.
Last year is the most recent game I've went to on this day - evidently with the unfortunate circumstances going on at present, and was an enjoyable watch - as we're the other 2. This one covers a cup final, again link is above, as Stowmarket Town Reserves took on rivals Walsham Le Willows Reserves in the Suffolk Reserve Cup Final at Ram Meadow.
Despite Stow seeming to enjoy more of the possession, it were the visitors who struck first in the second half and went onto shock their opponents and end up winning 3-0 in an entertaining contest - I would say more on it but the report I wrote at the time does it a bit more justice.
First off (in order of date), we have 2016 in my first season of watching non league. Bury Town FC v AFC Hornchurch was the game & the only time I've had to (begrudgingly left a non league game early). The final Isthmian League game was delayed an hour as the Hornchurch coach got stuck in traffic, leaving me with an issue. The same evening Man United were facing Everton in an FA Cup semi-final, in which I had arranged to watch it following the Bury game up my grandads, but with kick off at The Ram now 4pm I would have to miss some of either game in the end.
Hornchurch took the lead through Ricky Freeman on 21 minutes and stayed in front at the break.
Then came a twist, Mr Bury Town Olly Hughes levelled proceedings with a screamer in the sixty-third minute, with a red card (think it was for two yellows, but I may have remembered that incorrectly so don't quote me on that) seven minutes later suddenly sparking the game to life somewhat.
However, anxious of time just before Hughes drew Bury level I decided to leave on 75 minutes so I still got to watch most of Bury's game but could still watch all of United's with my grandad. Anxiously scrolling Twitter on the way there, I made sure I kept up to date with events at The Ram though.
Luckily I didn't miss anything of United's game as me and my grandad chatted about the United match but also my day at The Ram and what I just witnessed. Roll onto stoppage time of United's cup semi v Everton and we all know Anthony Martial ran through on goal and ensured United would reach the final in dramatic style. Evidently, the living room went berserk, as we celebrated a good win. Luckily, in the days that followed I was able to purchase a copy of the programme online which I'll add below. Having the programme instantly reminds me of that moment, as does the Bury programme (also attached).
Now we move onto 2018, as Team Bury welcomed Wisbech St. Mary, the two write ups, are below.
Team Bury v Wisbech St Mary 23 Apr 2018, Ram, Meadow, 7:45pm, Thurlow Nunn First Division.
2 years ago today, towards the end of the 2017/18 Thurlow Nunn First Division season Team Bury welcomed Wisbech St. Mary to Ram Meadow in which the visitors came from behind to take the points.
It was Team Bury who broke the deadlock on 31 minutes, Josh Revell tapping home a cross at the back post, 1-0 Bury.
Wisbech in response however headed a corner wide at the back post in the middle of a crowded penalty area just seven minutes after going behind.
Bury goalkeeper Ollie Froud then made a great stop to maintain Bury's advantage soon after the restart, having got through in the penalty area the low shot was saved well by a diving Froud down to his bottom left-hand post.
Wisbech though drew level on 54 minutes, a cross into the box on the left was squared back across for Davey to tap the ball home, 1-1.
Three minutes later, Froud denied Wisbech again saving a free-kick on the left edge of the box well.
Bury defender Jack Stone then made a crucial goal line challenge on 61 minutes, a corner in on the right-hand side was headed towards goal at the far post but was cleared off the line by Stone.
Wisbech then turned the game on its head in the 81st minute to give the visitors all three points, despite Froud saving the first shot from inside the box, Friend was on hand to tap home the rebound to make it 1-2 to Wisbech and give the visitors all three points.
Full report of Team Bury v Wisbech from the time.
Thurlow Nunn First Division Match Report: Monday 23rd April 2018- ©Drew Kendall, 2018-
Team Bury 1-2 Wisbech St. Mary
Revell 31'; Davey 54', Friend 81'
First Half Report:
Wisbech St. Mary came from behind to beat a great Team Bury performance, at Ram Meadow.
Bury arguably deserved to win the game, with the young Blues seeing Robinson's ball into the box, from the edge of the area, headed away by the defence, within the first minute. A minute later, Wisbech had an effort go wide of the target. Bury then went back down the other end, on 3 minutes, as Revell picked up possession on the right, who then cuts in towards the edge of the box but overhits his cross.
Team Bury debutant, Froud in the Bury goal, had his first piece of action on the 4th minute, as he punched away a cross from the left at his pack post. The following cross was then headed wide of the back post by Beckett.
Five minutes later, a free-kick from Robinson on the left wing, near the byline, was headed wide by Benham at the back post- as Bury continued to look for the opener. Then on 12 minutes, Robinson's free-kick from outside the box was palmed back into play from underneath the bar down the centre of the goal, by the 'keeper.
Four minutes later, Wisbech went back down the other end, as Smith volleyed well over the crossbar from outside the box. A minute after that, Calver then fired his own volleyed strike over from the left edge of the box. On 19 minutes, Bury went close to opening the scoring twice in the space of seconds, as Harry Moore's ferocious effort, from outside the box, thundered off the crossbar- after Goulding had teed him up. Revell then picked up the rebound, from the right edge of the 6-yard box, but can only fire his effort wide of the bottom left corner.
Nine minutes after that, Robinson's effort from, another, free-kick from the edge of the box was curled not far over the top left corner. However, Wisbech went straight down the other end, where seconds later, Goult's ball in from the left was palmed away by Froud at his near post. The rebound then fell to Barker, who could only fire his effort over the right post, from around 12 yards out.
Despite that, Bury then took the lead on 31 minutes, as Josh Revell tapped a low cross from the left into the net, at the back post- despite the ball going in via a touch of the 'keeper. It could've been 2-0 to Bury five minutes later, as another cross from the left found Goulding at the near post, where his strike hit the near post before rolling along the goal-line before Wisbech cleared to safety.
Then on 39 minutes, from a corner from the left, a Wisbech player who had leaped above everyone else, from around twelve yards out, is headed wide of the back post from within a crowd of players. Two minutes before half time, Goulding got through down the middle was fouled 23 yards from goal, where Robinson took it, only for his effort to be flapped away by the 'keeper. A minute before the interval, Froud punched a cross from the right, over at the back post, which was the last meaningful action of the opening forty-five minutes as Bury went into the break 1-0 up.
Half Time Score: Team Bury 1-0 Wisbech St. Mary
Second Half Report:
Straight from the restart, Wisbech got through on the left side of the box, where Froud made a great stop down to his left at his right post to preserve his side's lead. A minute into the second half, Revell weaved his way into the box, passing 3 players enroute, where the 'keeper who had closed down the angles blocked his effort from six yards out. Wisbech then had another effort, but could only fire over from distance, on 48 minutes. Three minutes later, the frame of the goal denied Bury once more, as Robinson's cross from the left found Goulding at the near post, where his header came back into play off the base off the post- where the Bury No. 9 nearly got the goal his performance deserved.
On 53 minutes, Wisbech then fired another effort of their own wide of the target, only on this occasion their effort went wide of the near post from the left side of the box. However, Wisbech were level a minute later, as a ball from the left was squared back across goal, where Davey tapped the ball home. Wisbech then had the chance to take the lead, on 57 minutes, as a free-kick from the edge of the box was saved well by Froud, one-handed down to his left, before Davey fired over from the edge of the box sixty seconds later.
Bury had Stone to thank on 61 minutes, as a Wisbech corner from the right was headed towards goal at the far post, where the Bury defender was at the right place at the near post to clear the ball off the line. Four minutes later, another Wisbech free-kick from the edge of the box forced Froud into another save. However, on this occasion, Friend's free-kick was struck low and hard as it went straight to Froud in the Bury goal.
With twenty-minutes to go, Wisbech began to pile on the pressure, both aggressively and through possession, as Gibson fired his effort wide of the near post from the left side of the box. A minute later, Robinson and Cook combined at the left byline, where the former's cross was palmed away by the 'keeper. Then with 18 minutes remaining, a Wisbech free-kick on the left, twenty-yards from goal was hit wide of the back post. Four minutes later, Wisbech went close again, as they curled an effort over the bar from the edge of the box.
Wisbech did take the lead though, on 81 minutes, as the first shot from inside the area was saved by Froud down to his left, at his right post- where Friend tapped home the rebound. They nearly had a third six minutes from time, as the visitors pulled the ball across face of the goal, but luckily for Bury went wide of the far post. It was the visitors that then had the final chance of the game, on 89 minutes, as Davey fires over from outside the box. Soon after, the referee blew his whistle to indicate full time, as Team Bury lost 1-2 to Wisbech St. Mary.
Full Time Result: Team Bury 1-2 Wisbech St. Mary
Lineups:
Team Bury FC-
1 Ollie Froud
2 Jack Stone
3 Jed Wigley
4 Matt Oldfield ©
5 Kalum Benham
6 Demi Yiasemis (booked on 60' minutes, and replaced by Grochocki on 60' minutes)
7 Joshua Revell
8 Harry Moore
9 Ryan Goulding
10 Tommy Robinson
11 Tom Calver (replaced by Cook on 65' minutes)
Subs:
12 Charlie Cook
14 Sam Crook (unused)
15 Kacper Grochocki
Wisbech St. Mary-
1 Adam Wright
2 Craig Ablett (replaced by J Miller on 24' minutes)
3 Dean Miller
16 Stuart Beckett
5 Jordan Goult
6 Tom Chilton
7 Kev Smith (booked on 41 minutes)
8 Enno Kingma
9 Nick Davey ©
10 Jack Friend
11 Drew Barker (replaced by Gibson on 63' minutes)
Subs:
12 James Miller
14 Aaran Duke
15 Lewis Gibson
Attendance: 33
Last year is the most recent game I've went to on this day - evidently with the unfortunate circumstances going on at present, and was an enjoyable watch - as we're the other 2. This one covers a cup final, again link is above, as Stowmarket Town Reserves took on rivals Walsham Le Willows Reserves in the Suffolk Reserve Cup Final at Ram Meadow.
Despite Stow seeming to enjoy more of the possession, it were the visitors who struck first in the second half and went onto shock their opponents and end up winning 3-0 in an entertaining contest - I would say more on it but the report I wrote at the time does it a bit more justice.
First off (in order of date), we have 2016 in my first season of watching non league. Bury Town FC v AFC Hornchurch was the game & the only time I've had to (begrudgingly left a non league game early). The final Isthmian League game was delayed an hour as the Hornchurch coach got stuck in traffic, leaving me with an issue. The same evening Man United were facing Everton in an FA Cup semi-final, in which I had arranged to watch it following the Bury game up my grandads, but with kick off at The Ram now 4pm I would have to miss some of either game in the end.
Hornchurch took the lead through Ricky Freeman on 21 minutes and stayed in front at the break.
Then came a twist, Mr Bury Town Olly Hughes levelled proceedings with a screamer in the sixty-third minute, with a red card (think it was for two yellows, but I may have remembered that incorrectly so don't quote me on that) seven minutes later suddenly sparking the game to life somewhat.
However, anxious of time just before Hughes drew Bury level I decided to leave on 75 minutes so I still got to watch most of Bury's game but could still watch all of United's with my grandad. Anxiously scrolling Twitter on the way there, I made sure I kept up to date with events at The Ram though.
Luckily I didn't miss anything of United's game as me and my grandad chatted about the United match but also my day at The Ram and what I just witnessed. Roll onto stoppage time of United's cup semi v Everton and we all know Anthony Martial ran through on goal and ensured United would reach the final in dramatic style. Evidently, the living room went berserk, as we celebrated a good win. Luckily, in the days that followed I was able to purchase a copy of the programme online which I'll add below. Having the programme instantly reminds me of that moment, as does the Bury programme (also attached).
Now we move onto 2018, as Team Bury welcomed Wisbech St. Mary, the two write ups, are below.
Team Bury v Wisbech St Mary 23 Apr 2018, Ram, Meadow, 7:45pm, Thurlow Nunn First Division.
2 years ago today, towards the end of the 2017/18 Thurlow Nunn First Division season Team Bury welcomed Wisbech St. Mary to Ram Meadow in which the visitors came from behind to take the points.
It was Team Bury who broke the deadlock on 31 minutes, Josh Revell tapping home a cross at the back post, 1-0 Bury.
Wisbech in response however headed a corner wide at the back post in the middle of a crowded penalty area just seven minutes after going behind.
Bury goalkeeper Ollie Froud then made a great stop to maintain Bury's advantage soon after the restart, having got through in the penalty area the low shot was saved well by a diving Froud down to his bottom left-hand post.
Wisbech though drew level on 54 minutes, a cross into the box on the left was squared back across for Davey to tap the ball home, 1-1.
Three minutes later, Froud denied Wisbech again saving a free-kick on the left edge of the box well.
Bury defender Jack Stone then made a crucial goal line challenge on 61 minutes, a corner in on the right-hand side was headed towards goal at the far post but was cleared off the line by Stone.
Wisbech then turned the game on its head in the 81st minute to give the visitors all three points, despite Froud saving the first shot from inside the box, Friend was on hand to tap home the rebound to make it 1-2 to Wisbech and give the visitors all three points.
Full report of Team Bury v Wisbech from the time.
Thurlow Nunn First Division Match Report: Monday 23rd April 2018- ©Drew Kendall, 2018-
Team Bury 1-2 Wisbech St. Mary
Revell 31'; Davey 54', Friend 81'
First Half Report:
Wisbech St. Mary came from behind to beat a great Team Bury performance, at Ram Meadow.
Bury arguably deserved to win the game, with the young Blues seeing Robinson's ball into the box, from the edge of the area, headed away by the defence, within the first minute. A minute later, Wisbech had an effort go wide of the target. Bury then went back down the other end, on 3 minutes, as Revell picked up possession on the right, who then cuts in towards the edge of the box but overhits his cross.
Team Bury debutant, Froud in the Bury goal, had his first piece of action on the 4th minute, as he punched away a cross from the left at his pack post. The following cross was then headed wide of the back post by Beckett.
Five minutes later, a free-kick from Robinson on the left wing, near the byline, was headed wide by Benham at the back post- as Bury continued to look for the opener. Then on 12 minutes, Robinson's free-kick from outside the box was palmed back into play from underneath the bar down the centre of the goal, by the 'keeper.
Four minutes later, Wisbech went back down the other end, as Smith volleyed well over the crossbar from outside the box. A minute after that, Calver then fired his own volleyed strike over from the left edge of the box. On 19 minutes, Bury went close to opening the scoring twice in the space of seconds, as Harry Moore's ferocious effort, from outside the box, thundered off the crossbar- after Goulding had teed him up. Revell then picked up the rebound, from the right edge of the 6-yard box, but can only fire his effort wide of the bottom left corner.
Nine minutes after that, Robinson's effort from, another, free-kick from the edge of the box was curled not far over the top left corner. However, Wisbech went straight down the other end, where seconds later, Goult's ball in from the left was palmed away by Froud at his near post. The rebound then fell to Barker, who could only fire his effort over the right post, from around 12 yards out.
Despite that, Bury then took the lead on 31 minutes, as Josh Revell tapped a low cross from the left into the net, at the back post- despite the ball going in via a touch of the 'keeper. It could've been 2-0 to Bury five minutes later, as another cross from the left found Goulding at the near post, where his strike hit the near post before rolling along the goal-line before Wisbech cleared to safety.
Then on 39 minutes, from a corner from the left, a Wisbech player who had leaped above everyone else, from around twelve yards out, is headed wide of the back post from within a crowd of players. Two minutes before half time, Goulding got through down the middle was fouled 23 yards from goal, where Robinson took it, only for his effort to be flapped away by the 'keeper. A minute before the interval, Froud punched a cross from the right, over at the back post, which was the last meaningful action of the opening forty-five minutes as Bury went into the break 1-0 up.
Half Time Score: Team Bury 1-0 Wisbech St. Mary
Second Half Report:
Straight from the restart, Wisbech got through on the left side of the box, where Froud made a great stop down to his left at his right post to preserve his side's lead. A minute into the second half, Revell weaved his way into the box, passing 3 players enroute, where the 'keeper who had closed down the angles blocked his effort from six yards out. Wisbech then had another effort, but could only fire over from distance, on 48 minutes. Three minutes later, the frame of the goal denied Bury once more, as Robinson's cross from the left found Goulding at the near post, where his header came back into play off the base off the post- where the Bury No. 9 nearly got the goal his performance deserved.
On 53 minutes, Wisbech then fired another effort of their own wide of the target, only on this occasion their effort went wide of the near post from the left side of the box. However, Wisbech were level a minute later, as a ball from the left was squared back across goal, where Davey tapped the ball home. Wisbech then had the chance to take the lead, on 57 minutes, as a free-kick from the edge of the box was saved well by Froud, one-handed down to his left, before Davey fired over from the edge of the box sixty seconds later.
Bury had Stone to thank on 61 minutes, as a Wisbech corner from the right was headed towards goal at the far post, where the Bury defender was at the right place at the near post to clear the ball off the line. Four minutes later, another Wisbech free-kick from the edge of the box forced Froud into another save. However, on this occasion, Friend's free-kick was struck low and hard as it went straight to Froud in the Bury goal.
With twenty-minutes to go, Wisbech began to pile on the pressure, both aggressively and through possession, as Gibson fired his effort wide of the near post from the left side of the box. A minute later, Robinson and Cook combined at the left byline, where the former's cross was palmed away by the 'keeper. Then with 18 minutes remaining, a Wisbech free-kick on the left, twenty-yards from goal was hit wide of the back post. Four minutes later, Wisbech went close again, as they curled an effort over the bar from the edge of the box.
Wisbech did take the lead though, on 81 minutes, as the first shot from inside the area was saved by Froud down to his left, at his right post- where Friend tapped home the rebound. They nearly had a third six minutes from time, as the visitors pulled the ball across face of the goal, but luckily for Bury went wide of the far post. It was the visitors that then had the final chance of the game, on 89 minutes, as Davey fires over from outside the box. Soon after, the referee blew his whistle to indicate full time, as Team Bury lost 1-2 to Wisbech St. Mary.
Full Time Result: Team Bury 1-2 Wisbech St. Mary
Lineups:
Team Bury FC-
1 Ollie Froud
2 Jack Stone
3 Jed Wigley
4 Matt Oldfield ©
5 Kalum Benham
6 Demi Yiasemis (booked on 60' minutes, and replaced by Grochocki on 60' minutes)
7 Joshua Revell
8 Harry Moore
9 Ryan Goulding
10 Tommy Robinson
11 Tom Calver (replaced by Cook on 65' minutes)
Subs:
12 Charlie Cook
14 Sam Crook (unused)
15 Kacper Grochocki
Wisbech St. Mary-
1 Adam Wright
2 Craig Ablett (replaced by J Miller on 24' minutes)
3 Dean Miller
16 Stuart Beckett
5 Jordan Goult
6 Tom Chilton
7 Kev Smith (booked on 41 minutes)
8 Enno Kingma
9 Nick Davey ©
10 Jack Friend
11 Drew Barker (replaced by Gibson on 63' minutes)
Subs:
12 James Miller
14 Aaran Duke
15 Lewis Gibson
Attendance: 33
INTERVIEW: Cruise Nydazayo
Bury Town's Cruise Nydazayo discusses his career so far - starting off in the Conference with Lowestoft & playing for Bury Town.
Favourite hot Drink? - tea
Favourite soft drink?- oasis
Coke or Pepsi?- haven’t had either for years but I’d say coke
Favourite Food?- I’d say chicken and rice!! Can’t go wrong
Favourite Takeaway?- Nando’s
Favourite TV Show?- smallvile
Favourite Film?- black panther
Favourite game?- FIFA
XBOX Or PlayStation? - Xbox
Favourite sport other than football and why?- honestly I’ve never really looked into anyway other sports but boxing/MMA
DK: Talk us through your career so far, give us an overview.
CN: For me it’s been up and down really I’ve just always found it difficult to settle in and find a place that suits me best.
DK: What's been the highlight of your career so far and why?
CN: For me was making my debut for Lowestoft in the conference as a young boy!
DK: What was it like to play in the conference at a young age?
CN: Was tough lots and lots of running! And you had to be strong because all the defenders were tough and weren’t easy to get past!! But I was always happy just to even get 5 minutes on the pitch.
DK: What is the standout moment on the pitch from your time playing in the Conference?
CN: Got to share the pitch with the coach that got me into the first team always believed in me and said id make it a long way!! remember coming on as a sub and playing up top and him just in the 10 role.
DK: How did you find your time at Lowestoft?
CN: Best I’ve had in football so far fans are great showed me nothing but support through out even till this day! Had great team mates too always pushed me on!
DK: What is the best ever goal you've scored so far and why?
CN: The winger at Lowestoft had just been injured the game before and the manager came up to me and said I’d be starting and went on to score the opener and won 5-1 away from home. Just given the opportunity and took it.
DK: How have you found your time at Bury so far?
CN: I’ve enjoyed myself so far it’s been great! Got a good bunch.
DK: What's been the highlight of your time at Ram Meadow so far?
CN: Coming on against canvey island and scoring the winner to secure the 3pts.
DK: How do you reflect on the season just gone?
CN: I thought we were doing very well we we’re on the right track for sure gutted it’s had to end but I have no doubt we will be back up there next season! Been a memorable one.
DK: What targets do you have going forward?
CN: For me it’s just making sure I’m fit and really to go again next season. And I’m training to beat Ryan jolland in a race pre season, he thinks he's quicker than me.
DK: If you could relive in person any sporting moment from any time what would you pick and why?
CN: 2010 World Cup, was unreal!
DK: What's the best game you've seen live and why?
CN: When I was on trial at Gillingham went to watch the first team, the atmosphere and Bradley Dack was insane.
DK: What was it like being on trial at Gillingham?
CN: First day I was nervous but got into it after a while boys were welcoming and was a really good experience.
DK: Who's the best player you've played alongside and why?
CN: Danny Crow the guy taught me a lot and don’t think I’d be anywhere near where I am today without him.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
CN: It’s got to be between Harrison reed or Pennant couldn’t get close!
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've played alongside so far?
CN: GK Ben Dudzinski
RB joe Hood
CB Rory Mc
CB Michael Spillane
LB Ryan Jolland
CDM Rossi Jarvis
CDM Simon Lappin
CAM Danny Crow
RW Joe Marsdem
LW Dean Mason
ST Jake Reed
DK: What is the best ground you've played at so far, and why?
CN: Portman Road, when we won the Suffolk Senior Cup.
DK: If you could play at any ground anywhere where would you pick?
CN: Emirates Stadium. As an Arsenal supporter it would be a dream come true!
DK: Who's your favourite professional player and why?
CN: CR7 the guys an absolute animal and always looking to be better!
DK: If you could pick a team of your overall all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick?
CN: GK Jens Lehmann
RB Sergio Ramos
CB Vidic
CB Sol Campbell
LB Ashley Cole
CDM Fàbregas
CDM Veira
CAM Kevin De Bruyne
RW Ronaldo
LW Messi
ST Thierry Henry
DK: If you could pick anyone from boxing or MMA to play football alongside who would you pick and why?
CN: Jon Jones, the guy is an animal. Can’t imagine anyone wanting to be 1v1 with him.
DK: If you could pick any two professional footballers from any time to play alongside who would you pick and why?
CN: Ronaldo and Thierry Henry, always looked up to them growing up. I’m sure they could teach me a lot!
Favourite hot Drink? - tea
Favourite soft drink?- oasis
Coke or Pepsi?- haven’t had either for years but I’d say coke
Favourite Food?- I’d say chicken and rice!! Can’t go wrong
Favourite Takeaway?- Nando’s
Favourite TV Show?- smallvile
Favourite Film?- black panther
Favourite game?- FIFA
XBOX Or PlayStation? - Xbox
Favourite sport other than football and why?- honestly I’ve never really looked into anyway other sports but boxing/MMA
DK: Talk us through your career so far, give us an overview.
CN: For me it’s been up and down really I’ve just always found it difficult to settle in and find a place that suits me best.
DK: What's been the highlight of your career so far and why?
CN: For me was making my debut for Lowestoft in the conference as a young boy!
DK: What was it like to play in the conference at a young age?
CN: Was tough lots and lots of running! And you had to be strong because all the defenders were tough and weren’t easy to get past!! But I was always happy just to even get 5 minutes on the pitch.
DK: What is the standout moment on the pitch from your time playing in the Conference?
CN: Got to share the pitch with the coach that got me into the first team always believed in me and said id make it a long way!! remember coming on as a sub and playing up top and him just in the 10 role.
DK: How did you find your time at Lowestoft?
CN: Best I’ve had in football so far fans are great showed me nothing but support through out even till this day! Had great team mates too always pushed me on!
DK: What is the best ever goal you've scored so far and why?
CN: The winger at Lowestoft had just been injured the game before and the manager came up to me and said I’d be starting and went on to score the opener and won 5-1 away from home. Just given the opportunity and took it.
DK: How have you found your time at Bury so far?
CN: I’ve enjoyed myself so far it’s been great! Got a good bunch.
DK: What's been the highlight of your time at Ram Meadow so far?
CN: Coming on against canvey island and scoring the winner to secure the 3pts.
DK: How do you reflect on the season just gone?
CN: I thought we were doing very well we we’re on the right track for sure gutted it’s had to end but I have no doubt we will be back up there next season! Been a memorable one.
DK: What targets do you have going forward?
CN: For me it’s just making sure I’m fit and really to go again next season. And I’m training to beat Ryan jolland in a race pre season, he thinks he's quicker than me.
DK: If you could relive in person any sporting moment from any time what would you pick and why?
CN: 2010 World Cup, was unreal!
DK: What's the best game you've seen live and why?
CN: When I was on trial at Gillingham went to watch the first team, the atmosphere and Bradley Dack was insane.
DK: What was it like being on trial at Gillingham?
CN: First day I was nervous but got into it after a while boys were welcoming and was a really good experience.
DK: Who's the best player you've played alongside and why?
CN: Danny Crow the guy taught me a lot and don’t think I’d be anywhere near where I am today without him.
DK: Who's the best player you've played against and why?
CN: It’s got to be between Harrison reed or Pennant couldn’t get close!
DK: Who is the best XI of players you've played alongside so far?
CN: GK Ben Dudzinski
RB joe Hood
CB Rory Mc
CB Michael Spillane
LB Ryan Jolland
CDM Rossi Jarvis
CDM Simon Lappin
CAM Danny Crow
RW Joe Marsdem
LW Dean Mason
ST Jake Reed
DK: What is the best ground you've played at so far, and why?
CN: Portman Road, when we won the Suffolk Senior Cup.
DK: If you could play at any ground anywhere where would you pick?
CN: Emirates Stadium. As an Arsenal supporter it would be a dream come true!
DK: Who's your favourite professional player and why?
CN: CR7 the guys an absolute animal and always looking to be better!
DK: If you could pick a team of your overall all time favourite professional footballers who would you pick?
CN: GK Jens Lehmann
RB Sergio Ramos
CB Vidic
CB Sol Campbell
LB Ashley Cole
CDM Fàbregas
CDM Veira
CAM Kevin De Bruyne
RW Ronaldo
LW Messi
ST Thierry Henry
DK: If you could pick anyone from boxing or MMA to play football alongside who would you pick and why?
CN: Jon Jones, the guy is an animal. Can’t imagine anyone wanting to be 1v1 with him.
DK: If you could pick any two professional footballers from any time to play alongside who would you pick and why?
CN: Ronaldo and Thierry Henry, always looked up to them growing up. I’m sure they could teach me a lot!
Wednesday, 22 April 2020
GROUNDHOPPING ARCHIVE: Team Bury v Holland 22.4.17
Team Bury 0-3 Holland, 22 Apr 2017, Ram, Meadow, 3pm, Thurlow Nunn First Division.
3 years ago now, and what a brilliant 3 years it's been! This game may have ended in defeat for the young Bury side but it was a memorable one nonetheless!
This was the first game in which I have been involved in a football club, as I covered Team Bury's Twitter (still do but now the Bury Town Under-23's account - but the Team Bury tweets are still on there if you want to search for them) for their game against Holland. It all came about as I went to watch their home game the week previous against Whitton United, the visitors winning 5-3. It was during that game I met Team Bury's secretary Dan Connor who introduced himself after seeing one of my tweets.
After that game I went home and talked to my mum about the idea of volunteering for the club, so I emailed Dan about becoming the club's Match Day Reporter to which we agreed to talk about it at the following home game - the Holland game. I arrived at the ground and was instantly given the details to log into the Twitter and was given a go with it. I remember it quite well, often getting really good feedback during the game at the speed and constant matchday updates I was posting and from there I obviously became the club's Social Media Secretary, Match Reporter/Previewer & later Website Admin for their final season, which played a huge part in my current involvements! I've enjoyed every second of my voluntary work so far, and will continue to do so - it's crazy to think this game was the start of all that!
Anyway, that out of the way here's a short report 3 years later!
Team Bury's penultimate home game of the 2016/17 season ended in defeat to Holland in what was a good game in the nice Suffolk weather.
Holland however broke the deadlock in the twelfth minute, the visitors heading home a corner at the back post, 0-1 Holland.
Five minutes onto the second half Holland doubled their lead, slotting the ball home into the right-hand corner, 0-2 Holland.
Four minutes later though, Holland wrapped up the points, after the visitors' got through on goal following some good passing play, the ball was lifted past Bugg at the near post.
Teams:
Team Bury:-
1 George Bugg
2 Matt Skevington
3 Henry Hall
4 Kieron Wegg
5 Ethan Woodley
6 Lawrence Porter
7 Tom Crichton
8 George Day
9 Max Holland
10 Cameron Nicholls
11 Josh Revell
Subs:
12 Harvey Addison
14 Benjamin Bennett-Day
16 James Crease
1 George Bugg
2 Matt Skevington
3 Henry Hall
4 Kieron Wegg
5 Ethan Woodley
6 Lawrence Porter
7 Tom Crichton
8 George Day
9 Max Holland
10 Cameron Nicholls
11 Josh Revell
Subs:
12 Harvey Addison
14 Benjamin Bennett-Day
16 James Crease
Holland:
1 ALEX BALL
2 NICK PALMER
3 RICKY SPRIGGS
4 LEE BRACOON
5 CHRIS RIBCHESTER
6 NEIL GOLDSWORTHY
7 KEELAN SORRELL
8 JOE MARTIN (C)
9 RAY TURNER
10 STEVE EATON
11 BILLY WALES
SUBS:
12 BAILEY BARNARD
14 ELDON CRAIG
15 JON HARVEY
2 NICK PALMER
3 RICKY SPRIGGS
4 LEE BRACOON
5 CHRIS RIBCHESTER
6 NEIL GOLDSWORTHY
7 KEELAN SORRELL
8 JOE MARTIN (C)
9 RAY TURNER
10 STEVE EATON
11 BILLY WALES
SUBS:
12 BAILEY BARNARD
14 ELDON CRAIG
15 JON HARVEY
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