Thursday, June 23, 2011
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Fight left in the fish
Wellington United Salmon 2- Seatoun Gulls 4
(Halftime 1-3)
MacAllister Park
Scorers:
Craig Ireson
Matthew Fulton
MOM Points
Richard Martin - 3 pts
Michael Ashby - 2pts
Simon Healy/Kahu Kirikiri - 1 pt each
Match report from John Dow:
GULLS PICK OFF SALMON IN THRILLER
Wellington United’s top team scored an emphatic 5-2 Chatham Cup win on Saturday afternoon that has propelled the club into the round for the last 16 nationwide as the only Wellington side still in this prestigious competition. Led by skillful Argentinian striker Emiliano Tade, it was his compatriot Alva Pumpido who crashed home a 30 metre freekick that set the team on the road to victory. On Sunday Netherlands professional import Mariska Kogelman scored a late equaliser for the Diamonds Women’s Central League team and twice came close to scoring a winner.
However, it was another of the WU club’s international players, all the way from Newcastle in England, via Bristol, Geordie goalkeeper Richard Martin who turned on an outstanding display of courage and acrobatics to keep the Salmon alive and still thrashing around till late in the match against championship chasers Seatoun Gulls.
Like most Newcastle goalkeepers, Martin saw plenty of action throughout the game as the Gulls pushed forward relentlessly in the first half and with a bit of luck going their way, including a first minute penalty for hand ball which they converted, they moved out to a 3-0 lead and things looked a bit ominous for the Salmon.
However, inspired by Martin’s goalkeeping heroics the Salmon came back into the game, Simon tightened up the backline and started winning the ball ahead of the marauding Gulls, and his fellow defenders started closing down the attackers and setting a more solid foundation to attack from.
Playing Squirt up front alongside Craig worked well as his running off the ball put pressure on their defence and when in possession he was able to hold the ball up in difficult conditions.
Ashby in the midfield, who was using the match as a warm up for running a marathon the next day, showed some real pace and purpose pushing forward and twice got the ball into excellent positions out wide on the left as well as getting Fulton into attacking positions wide on the right.
After playing one great pass out left, Squirt made a fantastic run dragging 3 defenders out of the middle and John D. played a long diagonal ball that cut through the defenders and Ashby who had made an incisive 40 metre sprint nearly found himself clean through on goal.
Another pass was knocked in behind the defence but Craig wasn’t able to check back inside and get clear from his marker with only the keeper to beat.
However, the Salmon were battling hard with Jeremy dominating some of the midfield clashes and winning lots of ball, and the ball broke for Craig to go face to face with the keeper, from what appeared to be an offside position, however after 2 valiant attempts the ball was scrambled for a corner.
John D. clipped the corner to the edge of the 6 yard box and Simon won the ball only to push his header wide of the post.
The Salmon kept pressing, and another WU player with international pedigree, Richie Hallam played a delightful ball through to Craig who put the chance away and the Salmon were back in the game at 3-1 down going in at halftime.
The second half started at a tremendous pace as the Salmon sensed they could get something out of the match and a series of moves forward put the Gulls under serious pressure.
A couple of balls in behind the Gulls defence nearly resulted in clear cut chances but some desperate defence kept them out.
However, when a Gulls player was caught in possession Jeremy’s excellent aggressive challenge won him the ball close to the penalty area and a chance to go for goal beckoned which he keenly took, then unselfishly he played Fulton into an excellent goalscoring position which he calmly converted and the game was 3-2 and anything was now possible.
Some good and thoughtful player rotation kept the Salmon legs reasonably fresh and the team fought hard for the elusive equiliser whilst defending hard as the Gulls pushed forward to try and seal the win.
Kahu who had defended and battled well all afternoon twisted an ankle and was helped from the field.
Steve J. ran and tackled well in the midfield, while Dave A. defended strongly and still managed a few rampaging runs forward in trying conditions.
The team was down to 11 fit players and the pressure was building when the Gulls captain and midfield general steered the ball into the top corner of the net giving the Salmon’s Man of the Match keeper, Richard Martin no chance to save the ball and the Gulls had won 4-2.
A buoyant and mud covered Salmon left the pitch for a hot shower and expertly chilled Corona beer and with thoughts of a match that could have produced a well earned draw against a side chasing the League title.
With the Saints hammering the Legends the Salmon can still salvage their season and push on out of the relegation zone but these close matches will need to start delivering points with only 3 regular season matches left to play.
Who will WU draw in the Chatham Cup as the next round goes fully national ??
Can Mariska score a bundle of goals and keep the Diamonds in the Women’s Central League ??
Will Richard Martin be recalled to St James Park when Alan Pardew watches the Salmon versus Gull’s match on You Tube ??
Will Wycombe Wanderers finally admit they should never have let Richie Hallams go on a free transfer ??
Salmon vs Gulls
Craig
Dave
Rich H
Jeremy
Kahu
Simon
Ashby
Fulton
Richard Martin
Squirt
John Dow
Steve Jessup
(Halftime 1-3)
MacAllister Park
Scorers:
Craig Ireson
Matthew Fulton
MOM Points
Richard Martin - 3 pts
Michael Ashby - 2pts
Simon Healy/Kahu Kirikiri - 1 pt each
Match report from John Dow:
GULLS PICK OFF SALMON IN THRILLER
Wellington United’s top team scored an emphatic 5-2 Chatham Cup win on Saturday afternoon that has propelled the club into the round for the last 16 nationwide as the only Wellington side still in this prestigious competition. Led by skillful Argentinian striker Emiliano Tade, it was his compatriot Alva Pumpido who crashed home a 30 metre freekick that set the team on the road to victory. On Sunday Netherlands professional import Mariska Kogelman scored a late equaliser for the Diamonds Women’s Central League team and twice came close to scoring a winner.
However, it was another of the WU club’s international players, all the way from Newcastle in England, via Bristol, Geordie goalkeeper Richard Martin who turned on an outstanding display of courage and acrobatics to keep the Salmon alive and still thrashing around till late in the match against championship chasers Seatoun Gulls.
Like most Newcastle goalkeepers, Martin saw plenty of action throughout the game as the Gulls pushed forward relentlessly in the first half and with a bit of luck going their way, including a first minute penalty for hand ball which they converted, they moved out to a 3-0 lead and things looked a bit ominous for the Salmon.
However, inspired by Martin’s goalkeeping heroics the Salmon came back into the game, Simon tightened up the backline and started winning the ball ahead of the marauding Gulls, and his fellow defenders started closing down the attackers and setting a more solid foundation to attack from.
Playing Squirt up front alongside Craig worked well as his running off the ball put pressure on their defence and when in possession he was able to hold the ball up in difficult conditions.
Ashby in the midfield, who was using the match as a warm up for running a marathon the next day, showed some real pace and purpose pushing forward and twice got the ball into excellent positions out wide on the left as well as getting Fulton into attacking positions wide on the right.
After playing one great pass out left, Squirt made a fantastic run dragging 3 defenders out of the middle and John D. played a long diagonal ball that cut through the defenders and Ashby who had made an incisive 40 metre sprint nearly found himself clean through on goal.
Another pass was knocked in behind the defence but Craig wasn’t able to check back inside and get clear from his marker with only the keeper to beat.
However, the Salmon were battling hard with Jeremy dominating some of the midfield clashes and winning lots of ball, and the ball broke for Craig to go face to face with the keeper, from what appeared to be an offside position, however after 2 valiant attempts the ball was scrambled for a corner.
John D. clipped the corner to the edge of the 6 yard box and Simon won the ball only to push his header wide of the post.
The Salmon kept pressing, and another WU player with international pedigree, Richie Hallam played a delightful ball through to Craig who put the chance away and the Salmon were back in the game at 3-1 down going in at halftime.
The second half started at a tremendous pace as the Salmon sensed they could get something out of the match and a series of moves forward put the Gulls under serious pressure.
A couple of balls in behind the Gulls defence nearly resulted in clear cut chances but some desperate defence kept them out.
However, when a Gulls player was caught in possession Jeremy’s excellent aggressive challenge won him the ball close to the penalty area and a chance to go for goal beckoned which he keenly took, then unselfishly he played Fulton into an excellent goalscoring position which he calmly converted and the game was 3-2 and anything was now possible.
Some good and thoughtful player rotation kept the Salmon legs reasonably fresh and the team fought hard for the elusive equiliser whilst defending hard as the Gulls pushed forward to try and seal the win.
Kahu who had defended and battled well all afternoon twisted an ankle and was helped from the field.
Steve J. ran and tackled well in the midfield, while Dave A. defended strongly and still managed a few rampaging runs forward in trying conditions.
The team was down to 11 fit players and the pressure was building when the Gulls captain and midfield general steered the ball into the top corner of the net giving the Salmon’s Man of the Match keeper, Richard Martin no chance to save the ball and the Gulls had won 4-2.
A buoyant and mud covered Salmon left the pitch for a hot shower and expertly chilled Corona beer and with thoughts of a match that could have produced a well earned draw against a side chasing the League title.
With the Saints hammering the Legends the Salmon can still salvage their season and push on out of the relegation zone but these close matches will need to start delivering points with only 3 regular season matches left to play.
Who will WU draw in the Chatham Cup as the next round goes fully national ??
Can Mariska score a bundle of goals and keep the Diamonds in the Women’s Central League ??
Will Richard Martin be recalled to St James Park when Alan Pardew watches the Salmon versus Gull’s match on You Tube ??
Will Wycombe Wanderers finally admit they should never have let Richie Hallams go on a free transfer ??
Salmon vs Gulls
Craig
Dave
Rich H
Jeremy
Kahu
Simon
Ashby
Fulton
Richard Martin
Squirt
John Dow
Steve Jessup
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Beavers vs. Salmon- A belated match report
University Beavers 4- Wellington United Salmon 0
Halftime 2-0
Nairnville Park
MOM:
Adam Holloway-3pts
Warrick Jackson - 2pts
Michael Ashby- 1 pt
On the face of it it looks like another week, another pasting for the salmon- the reality of the encounter however was far from it. Salmon were vastly improved, battling hard againsta fitter, more skilful team. If we had been a bit calmer and luckier in front of goal then the match culd have swung our way-it has to also be said that the Beaver's keeper is one of the best to be seen in Div 9 and is clearly slumming it and that the refereeing was some of the poorest we have seen in a long time- i.e. standing on halfway checking text messages bad- their 2nd and 4th goals were offside and the third had gone out of play- so 1-0 would have been a fairer reflection. The game showed that the Salmon can, at times, foot it with the best in the league but we need to do so for a full 90 to get something out of the season.
How did John Dow see it?
BEAVERS DINE OUT ON SALMON STEW
The Salmon emerged at Nairnville Park on saturday quietly determined to place the debacle from the week before firmly behind them and to show the Beavers team that the hard fought first round draw at Mc Allister Park was a fair and reasonable reflection of the merits and abilities of both teams.
The previous match against the Upper Hutt Saints had threatened to undermine the team’s growing credibility within the WU club and the selectors were under serious pressure to demonstrate they could stop the team from sinking any further onto the footballing scrapheap.
The long weekend had reduced the squad size and with the bare 11 players supported by a raw recruit from Africa, the spectre of facing one of the youngest, fittest and quickest teams in Wellington played heavily on the selectors minds as skillful and timely rotations requiring careful attention and judicious application would be vital.
The pre match team talk set the scene. A 4-5-1 formation with a clear directive to “flood the midfield” was the tactic of the day with the urge to translate last week’s public humiliation into a deeply felt sense of drive and motivation sounded a well articulated plea to the troops.
Would it work ??
The Beavers looked fit, keen and hungry with revenge and 3 points clearly on their minds ,plus with the contribution of a tame referee, they seriously fancied their chances of a comprehensive victory.
The match started at a frenetic pace as the Beavers stormed forward.
However, with Simon reinstated in the middle of defence the Salmon held firm as his reading of the game and timely interventions gave confidence to the other defenders and set the platform for the midfield to engage with and battle the marauding Beaver players.
The first ten minutes were fast and furious with the Beavers mostly on top but unable to create genuine chances for goals to be scored.
However, the Salmon midfield started to dominate, with some tight marking, solid hard running and a determination to win the ball and to push forward and attack the Salmon were looking likely to score and take the ascendancy in the match.
A series of goal scoring chances were created and Craig was unlucky not to put one or two away, a couple of corners were won, Wazza got some long throws happening deep into Beavers territory and Fulton and Ashby were covering enormous amounts of ground both in defence and attack with both players getting into the penalty area and having half chances to score.
Wazza and Jeremy were closing the Beavers down in the middle of the park as well as advancing forward into good attacking positions while the defence held firm with Adam consistently dominating his opponents and Richard and Simon ably supported by Dave A. regularly blocking and tackling the quick and agile Beavers forwards.
The game could have swung either way, when the sheer pace and determination of the Beaver’s attackers opened up a couple of opportunities which they managed to slot away, the second from what looked very much like an offside position.
The half time whistle went and the Salmon were down 2-0.
The second half was played out in a similar manner, if in a somewhat less tighter style as both teams started to tire.
The Beavers were determined to get the 3 points and were aware of the Salmon opportunities being created, and if one had gone in the game could easily have changed.
A series of Beaver corners put some huge pressure on the defence and a few desperate clearances were the order of the day.
The pressure eventually told and a couple of goals pushed the score out to 4-0.
However, the Salmon kept battling till the end and with new recruit Hamsa providing another attacking outlet and an ability to hold the ball up till support could get forward more opportunities emerged but were squandered.
Dave A. continued his consistent form with some strong defence and good runs down the flank which proved effective.
Fulton played an excellent pass into the path of a great run by Ashby who should have blazed home a glorious goal with only minutes left on the clock.
Craig had more chances in the one game than he has got in 3 or 4 outings put together this season with his great running off the ball and workrate and if his finishing had been more accurate and decisive he could have scored a hat trick.
Richard in goal couldn’t be blamed for any of the goals and he pulled off some good saves too.
The team’s formation, tactics and attitude were exemplary as was the after match beer and a credit to all concerned.
Adam emerged as the deserved Player of the Day after a very solid and effective defensive match against some quick and skillful Beaver attackers.
Have the Salmon finally turned the corner with 4 regular season matches to play ??
Can the team get a victory or two as a just reward for the commitment, effort and goal scoring chances being created ??
Will Dave Armstrong’s play at Downstage, which opens this week, get rave reviews, standing ovations and a Sold Out sign plastered across the Theatre’s billboard ??
Halftime 2-0
Nairnville Park
MOM:
Adam Holloway-3pts
Warrick Jackson - 2pts
Michael Ashby- 1 pt
On the face of it it looks like another week, another pasting for the salmon- the reality of the encounter however was far from it. Salmon were vastly improved, battling hard againsta fitter, more skilful team. If we had been a bit calmer and luckier in front of goal then the match culd have swung our way-it has to also be said that the Beaver's keeper is one of the best to be seen in Div 9 and is clearly slumming it and that the refereeing was some of the poorest we have seen in a long time- i.e. standing on halfway checking text messages bad- their 2nd and 4th goals were offside and the third had gone out of play- so 1-0 would have been a fairer reflection. The game showed that the Salmon can, at times, foot it with the best in the league but we need to do so for a full 90 to get something out of the season.
How did John Dow see it?
BEAVERS DINE OUT ON SALMON STEW
The Salmon emerged at Nairnville Park on saturday quietly determined to place the debacle from the week before firmly behind them and to show the Beavers team that the hard fought first round draw at Mc Allister Park was a fair and reasonable reflection of the merits and abilities of both teams.
The previous match against the Upper Hutt Saints had threatened to undermine the team’s growing credibility within the WU club and the selectors were under serious pressure to demonstrate they could stop the team from sinking any further onto the footballing scrapheap.
The long weekend had reduced the squad size and with the bare 11 players supported by a raw recruit from Africa, the spectre of facing one of the youngest, fittest and quickest teams in Wellington played heavily on the selectors minds as skillful and timely rotations requiring careful attention and judicious application would be vital.
The pre match team talk set the scene. A 4-5-1 formation with a clear directive to “flood the midfield” was the tactic of the day with the urge to translate last week’s public humiliation into a deeply felt sense of drive and motivation sounded a well articulated plea to the troops.
Would it work ??
The Beavers looked fit, keen and hungry with revenge and 3 points clearly on their minds ,plus with the contribution of a tame referee, they seriously fancied their chances of a comprehensive victory.
The match started at a frenetic pace as the Beavers stormed forward.
However, with Simon reinstated in the middle of defence the Salmon held firm as his reading of the game and timely interventions gave confidence to the other defenders and set the platform for the midfield to engage with and battle the marauding Beaver players.
The first ten minutes were fast and furious with the Beavers mostly on top but unable to create genuine chances for goals to be scored.
However, the Salmon midfield started to dominate, with some tight marking, solid hard running and a determination to win the ball and to push forward and attack the Salmon were looking likely to score and take the ascendancy in the match.
A series of goal scoring chances were created and Craig was unlucky not to put one or two away, a couple of corners were won, Wazza got some long throws happening deep into Beavers territory and Fulton and Ashby were covering enormous amounts of ground both in defence and attack with both players getting into the penalty area and having half chances to score.
Wazza and Jeremy were closing the Beavers down in the middle of the park as well as advancing forward into good attacking positions while the defence held firm with Adam consistently dominating his opponents and Richard and Simon ably supported by Dave A. regularly blocking and tackling the quick and agile Beavers forwards.
The game could have swung either way, when the sheer pace and determination of the Beaver’s attackers opened up a couple of opportunities which they managed to slot away, the second from what looked very much like an offside position.
The half time whistle went and the Salmon were down 2-0.
The second half was played out in a similar manner, if in a somewhat less tighter style as both teams started to tire.
The Beavers were determined to get the 3 points and were aware of the Salmon opportunities being created, and if one had gone in the game could easily have changed.
A series of Beaver corners put some huge pressure on the defence and a few desperate clearances were the order of the day.
The pressure eventually told and a couple of goals pushed the score out to 4-0.
However, the Salmon kept battling till the end and with new recruit Hamsa providing another attacking outlet and an ability to hold the ball up till support could get forward more opportunities emerged but were squandered.
Dave A. continued his consistent form with some strong defence and good runs down the flank which proved effective.
Fulton played an excellent pass into the path of a great run by Ashby who should have blazed home a glorious goal with only minutes left on the clock.
Craig had more chances in the one game than he has got in 3 or 4 outings put together this season with his great running off the ball and workrate and if his finishing had been more accurate and decisive he could have scored a hat trick.
Richard in goal couldn’t be blamed for any of the goals and he pulled off some good saves too.
The team’s formation, tactics and attitude were exemplary as was the after match beer and a credit to all concerned.
Adam emerged as the deserved Player of the Day after a very solid and effective defensive match against some quick and skillful Beaver attackers.
Have the Salmon finally turned the corner with 4 regular season matches to play ??
Can the team get a victory or two as a just reward for the commitment, effort and goal scoring chances being created ??
Will Dave Armstrong’s play at Downstage, which opens this week, get rave reviews, standing ovations and a Sold Out sign plastered across the Theatre’s billboard ??
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Spirit
Game called off; 9 people make it to training, 8 people make it back to the clubrooms for a beer and to watch the first team. That's club spirit, that's team spirit.
Good on ya lads.
Good on ya lads.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Game is off today, training is on
State of Origin Styles- Wgtn born vs the rest
12.30 ko!
Directions:
Boyd Wilson Arena is in the building just in front of the Boyd Wilson Field, which can be found here:
http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=boyd+wilson+field&sll=-41.244772,172.617188&sspn=48.801473,78.837891&ie=UTF8&hq=boyd+wilson+field&hnear=&ll=-41.29019,174.769156&spn=0.012011,0.019248&z=16
Head up towards the Kelburn Campus of the University, taking the first left (Waiteata Rd) after you turn off the Terrace onto Salamanca Road. Follow Waiteata Rd as far as it will go, past the Student flats on your left, and down the hill. Access is through the double doors on the right
Bring your own kit.
12.30 ko!
Directions:
Boyd Wilson Arena is in the building just in front of the Boyd Wilson Field, which can be found here:
http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=boyd+wilson+field&sll=-41.244772,172.617188&sspn=48.801473,78.837891&ie=UTF8&hq=boyd+wilson+field&hnear=&ll=-41.29019,174.769156&spn=0.012011,0.019248&z=16
Head up towards the Kelburn Campus of the University, taking the first left (Waiteata Rd) after you turn off the Terrace onto Salamanca Road. Follow Waiteata Rd as far as it will go, past the Student flats on your left, and down the hill. Access is through the double doors on the right
Bring your own kit.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Oh dear- a walloping
WU Salmon 1 UH Saints 12
(Half time 0-9)
Melrose
Scorer: Jeremy
MOMPts
Jeremy 3
Terry 2
James Stewart 1
Incredibly hard to put this into words, so thank f*#k i don't have to- John Dow has opted for humour. As much as we were poor, and we were, we also did not have an ounce of luck go our way. The test of character wasn't last weekend it will be next weekend when we have to dust ourselves off and let who ever is unlucky enough to play us next know that we are pissed off.
i think a training is in order _thursday or Wednesday at the Chinese cultural centre- passing and defending will be the main focus.
Lastly, it was a rubbish time to be the club team and have to do bar duty so thanks to those who helped out- especially James and Matthew who stayed til the end- it shows character to hang around after a thumping and sink some beers at the clubby!
Was it our worst ever loss? probably but like i said it will be worse if we let us get to us-
Over to Mr Dow:
BABOONS SILENCED BY SALMON CAPITULATION
Wellington Zookeeper Rupert Ramshaw reported that for the first time in living memory his beloved Baboons were in stunned silence after witnessing the first half capitulation of the once Mighty Salmon against Upper Hutt Saints on Saturday May 30. The 9-0 half time score had left his playful and usually supportive animals in a state of complete shock leading to threats to cancel the popular and usually well attended “ Afternoon Tea Party” for which they are famous.
When word of such a reaction filtered through to Newtown Park, Wellington United historians were searching their books for comparisons of other dark days in the club’s long history.
Established in 1893, WU has nearly 120 years of events, matches, campaigns, victories and humiliations from which to consider this first half annihilation against.
Could this rout be seen alongside the desperately sad occasion when 3 of the club’s finest ever players went down with the Titanic at the end of a long season in 1912 ??
Or the embarrassment the club endured when on that same fateful night, Cyril Vile the second team Coach survived, wearing a dress and wig, by leaping onto a lifeboat using the dubious name of Cybil. For many years after the “Cyril Vile Trophy” was handed out to the season’s individual who had brought the most shame and ridicule to the club each season.
How bad was this first half ?, the only sign of Salmon defensive resistance came when a stray dog parked himself in the 6 yard box for 2 minutes and the Saints momentarily lost confidence and started shooting high and wide.
Perhaps the sound of the half time whistle which was clear, confident and resolute can be noted as not only the best contribution from a Salmon player to this tale of first half woe but also a much awaited relief from the pain and suffering the whole team was experiencing.
First to articulate a remedy and change of approach was Adam who captured the mood and urgency of the situation and exalted the team to tackle the second half as a completely new and fresh challenge.
A move back to a more traditional 4-4-2 formation saw the defence start to become tighter, more committed and in pursuit of a second half clean sheet ably encouraged by the talking of Richard and Dave. Saints suddenly found scoring much more difficult and the team’s started to even up.
Terry started to get on the ball and pushed passes around and keeping possession was suddenly back in vogue despite a few lapses and Salmon gift giving.
However, the real revelation was the hard running and committed play from Jeremy and Wozza who repeatedly won the ball in the middle of the park and kept pushing the team forward at every opportunity.
Jeremy’s all action play saw him match the best the Saints could offer, his defensive work held them at bay, while he also proved a real handful for their defence as he constantly burst forward and proved impossible to contain. His stunning last minute strike a totally deserved outcome for a very impressive half of football, coming from a great set up from Craig.
Wozza also imposed himself on the Saints, winning lots of ball, getting passes forward and in one glorious movement battled through 4 consecutive 50/50 situations before emerging with the ball at his feet near the edge of the area, then impressed with his awareness to see the great run of Fulton who he then played into a clear goalscoring situation and a very real opportunity to score was narrowly missed. Another excellent performance.
A battling second half, although lost 3-1, showed once again that the sometimes Mighty Salmon can actually compete with any team in this division.
However, Upper Hutt demonstrated the importance of combinations, off the ball running, and a positive attacking attitude with lots of talk amongst their players.
While the first half of this match will forever be known in WU history and Zoo folklore as the day the “ Baboons were Silenced” the second half clearly showed what this side is capable of.
How will the Salmon selectors respond to such a comprehensive capitulation ?? They have shown great skill and understanding in turning around other poor performances already this season.
Will the WU club consider reintroducing the “Cyril Vile Trophy” should such a half of football ever be served up again this season.
Will aspects of this first half be included in one of Dave Armstrong’s next plays, appropriately titled “The Descent of Man” ??
Should every individual take a big long hard look at themselves in the mirror the morning of the next match and make a personal commitment to never allowing a repeat of such a footballing travesty ever to happen again ??
(Half time 0-9)
Melrose
Scorer: Jeremy
MOMPts
Jeremy 3
Terry 2
James Stewart 1
Incredibly hard to put this into words, so thank f*#k i don't have to- John Dow has opted for humour. As much as we were poor, and we were, we also did not have an ounce of luck go our way. The test of character wasn't last weekend it will be next weekend when we have to dust ourselves off and let who ever is unlucky enough to play us next know that we are pissed off.
i think a training is in order _thursday or Wednesday at the Chinese cultural centre- passing and defending will be the main focus.
Lastly, it was a rubbish time to be the club team and have to do bar duty so thanks to those who helped out- especially James and Matthew who stayed til the end- it shows character to hang around after a thumping and sink some beers at the clubby!
Was it our worst ever loss? probably but like i said it will be worse if we let us get to us-
Over to Mr Dow:
BABOONS SILENCED BY SALMON CAPITULATION
Wellington Zookeeper Rupert Ramshaw reported that for the first time in living memory his beloved Baboons were in stunned silence after witnessing the first half capitulation of the once Mighty Salmon against Upper Hutt Saints on Saturday May 30. The 9-0 half time score had left his playful and usually supportive animals in a state of complete shock leading to threats to cancel the popular and usually well attended “ Afternoon Tea Party” for which they are famous.
When word of such a reaction filtered through to Newtown Park, Wellington United historians were searching their books for comparisons of other dark days in the club’s long history.
Established in 1893, WU has nearly 120 years of events, matches, campaigns, victories and humiliations from which to consider this first half annihilation against.
Could this rout be seen alongside the desperately sad occasion when 3 of the club’s finest ever players went down with the Titanic at the end of a long season in 1912 ??
Or the embarrassment the club endured when on that same fateful night, Cyril Vile the second team Coach survived, wearing a dress and wig, by leaping onto a lifeboat using the dubious name of Cybil. For many years after the “Cyril Vile Trophy” was handed out to the season’s individual who had brought the most shame and ridicule to the club each season.
How bad was this first half ?, the only sign of Salmon defensive resistance came when a stray dog parked himself in the 6 yard box for 2 minutes and the Saints momentarily lost confidence and started shooting high and wide.
Perhaps the sound of the half time whistle which was clear, confident and resolute can be noted as not only the best contribution from a Salmon player to this tale of first half woe but also a much awaited relief from the pain and suffering the whole team was experiencing.
First to articulate a remedy and change of approach was Adam who captured the mood and urgency of the situation and exalted the team to tackle the second half as a completely new and fresh challenge.
A move back to a more traditional 4-4-2 formation saw the defence start to become tighter, more committed and in pursuit of a second half clean sheet ably encouraged by the talking of Richard and Dave. Saints suddenly found scoring much more difficult and the team’s started to even up.
Terry started to get on the ball and pushed passes around and keeping possession was suddenly back in vogue despite a few lapses and Salmon gift giving.
However, the real revelation was the hard running and committed play from Jeremy and Wozza who repeatedly won the ball in the middle of the park and kept pushing the team forward at every opportunity.
Jeremy’s all action play saw him match the best the Saints could offer, his defensive work held them at bay, while he also proved a real handful for their defence as he constantly burst forward and proved impossible to contain. His stunning last minute strike a totally deserved outcome for a very impressive half of football, coming from a great set up from Craig.
Wozza also imposed himself on the Saints, winning lots of ball, getting passes forward and in one glorious movement battled through 4 consecutive 50/50 situations before emerging with the ball at his feet near the edge of the area, then impressed with his awareness to see the great run of Fulton who he then played into a clear goalscoring situation and a very real opportunity to score was narrowly missed. Another excellent performance.
A battling second half, although lost 3-1, showed once again that the sometimes Mighty Salmon can actually compete with any team in this division.
However, Upper Hutt demonstrated the importance of combinations, off the ball running, and a positive attacking attitude with lots of talk amongst their players.
While the first half of this match will forever be known in WU history and Zoo folklore as the day the “ Baboons were Silenced” the second half clearly showed what this side is capable of.
How will the Salmon selectors respond to such a comprehensive capitulation ?? They have shown great skill and understanding in turning around other poor performances already this season.
Will the WU club consider reintroducing the “Cyril Vile Trophy” should such a half of football ever be served up again this season.
Will aspects of this first half be included in one of Dave Armstrong’s next plays, appropriately titled “The Descent of Man” ??
Should every individual take a big long hard look at themselves in the mirror the morning of the next match and make a personal commitment to never allowing a repeat of such a footballing travesty ever to happen again ??
Monday, May 23, 2011
Match report from the far left wing
This week we have a guest writer- Mr John Dow. I have merely added the game facts at the start- Thanks JD!
WU Terrace 0- WU Salmon 3
(Half time 0-2)
Newtown Park
Referee: 074 Grieve Frank
Scorers:
Craig Ireson (2, 1pen)
Mathew Fulton
MOM:
3pts Richard Hallam- A full 90 in centre back and a clean sheet
2 pts Simon Healy- A master class in defensive headers against a team which only knows one route to goal
1pt Michael Ashby- far and away his best perfromance yet, dedicated, direct and confident
1 pt Craig Ireson- two well taken goals and won the ball back like a midfielder
MIGHTY SALMON TRIUMPH ON HALLOWED TURF
On a weekend when 5 teams were fighting for their survival in the English Premier League the Mighty Salmon were marching onto the hallowed turf of Newtown Park for the first time this season, albeit as an away team looking like a bunch of escapees from a St Patrick’s Day Parade.
Despite near perfect playing conditions, a pitch in good shape and the allocation of a real referee our exotic opposition threatened to ruin the day with their shambolic time keeping and lack of organisation resulting in a delayed kick off and the start of the match seeing only 9 Orange clad footballers on the field. This quickly became 11.
The Salmon selectors determined to learn from the painful loss to the Legends the week before, set out the team’s objectives of a clean sheet, 2-3 goals to be scored, some expansive football on the large pitch and plenty of running and effort whilst keeping one step ahead of The Terrace’s reputation for niggly, disruptive play.
In the opening period the ball was played out confidently from the back and with the midfield dominating the ball went forward quickly and efficiently to the lone ranging striker Craig who was ably supported by some mobile play from Squirt, Fulton and Ashby.
While Nick and Kahu were scrapping it out in the middle of the park to good effect they also still managed to get forward and create a few chances and Nick put 2 outstanding raking long balls to Craig which generated genuine chances that didn’t produce goals which on another day they could have.
The breakthrough finally came when John D. clipped a corner to the edge of the 6 yard box and Simon headed a dangerous ball into the goalmouth and a Terrace player handled and the referee pointed to the spot.
Up stepped top goalscorer Ireson and the keeper had no chance, 1-0.
The Salmon were dominating the match and after a useful cross from (Wozza or Squirt ??) the ball bounced loose in the 6 yard box and quick as a flash Fulton got there first and steered the ball into the net for a well deserved goal, 2-0.
A quick half time turnaround and immediately The Terrace were on attack refusing to give in and pushing forward at every opportunity only to be thwarted by the strong central defenders Richard and Simon, and the tenacious defending of Dave and Adam.
Backed up by keeper Richard the defence were committed to achieving the elusive clean sheet the selectors had pleaded for pre match while the midfield worked hard to dominate and keep the Salmon flowing forward.
However goals were proving hard to come by and a slim 2-0 lead gave The Terrace some hope and belief they could still get something out of the game.
However, with 15 minutes to go the ball broke to John D. who played a first time 40 metre pass that cut through and in behind the defence and left striker Craig on a clean break with only the keeper to beat and a clinical finish ended any hopes and dreams The Terrace were clinging to and the game was effectively won, 3-0.
There was still some more action though as another John D. corner was flicked on by Simon and Wozza was nearly in for the 4 th goal, while at the other end The Terrace striker blazed over the bar from 6 yards out with the goal at his mercy.
Overall, the pre match objectives were achieved, Simon’s return at the back greatly assisted the defence keep a clean sheet, 3 good goals were scored and a few other good chances were created, Fulton and Ashby got through a huge amount of running and their pace and enthusiasm caused The Terrace big problems all over the park, Dave got some good moves happening down the left flank while showing he could also get back quickly and his photo on the front cover of Monday’s paper was fully deserved, Adam tidied up the right back spot and also showed some pace getting forward, James managed to cover lots of ground and is still in search of his ideal position ( something the selectors are aware of and contemplating), Squirt seemed to have got over his hammy problem and made some good passes and movements as did Kahu whose fitness should benefit from his first game back after a few weeks away. Wozza showed after a disrupted start that his recent Man of the Match performance is likely to be repeated and his keenness in the penalty area will soon produce a few goals. Nick’s tackling was strong and a couple of sublime passes hinted at what could be when a little extra match fitness takes full effect. Richard H. was solid and reliable as ever and Richard the Goalie celebrated the Salmon’s first clean sheet of this season, which as a keeper you can’t do any better than that. Craig’s 2 goals were well taken and his running into space his best this season stretching The Terrace all afternoon, his goalscorer’s ego and natural sense of superiority should be well satisfied for at least a week. John D.’s fitness is improving and a few passes showed small glimpses of his form from his best ever season which was 32 years ago.
Have the Mighty Salmon turned the corner and set themselves for a majestic run of great results and with it a charge up the league ladder ??
Or was this a simple victory over a winless team who are rooted to the bottom of the table ??
What brilliant strategy and set of objectives will the selectors produce for the next match ??
Will Fulton mount a challenge to Craig to become the team’s top goalscorer ??
Are hard fought clean sheets going to become a regular occurrence ??
Will Dave Armstrong continue to keep Rachel Hunter off the front page of The Dom Post ??
WU Terrace 0- WU Salmon 3
(Half time 0-2)
Newtown Park
Referee: 074 Grieve Frank
Scorers:
Craig Ireson (2, 1pen)
Mathew Fulton
MOM:
3pts Richard Hallam- A full 90 in centre back and a clean sheet
2 pts Simon Healy- A master class in defensive headers against a team which only knows one route to goal
1pt Michael Ashby- far and away his best perfromance yet, dedicated, direct and confident
1 pt Craig Ireson- two well taken goals and won the ball back like a midfielder
MIGHTY SALMON TRIUMPH ON HALLOWED TURF
On a weekend when 5 teams were fighting for their survival in the English Premier League the Mighty Salmon were marching onto the hallowed turf of Newtown Park for the first time this season, albeit as an away team looking like a bunch of escapees from a St Patrick’s Day Parade.
Despite near perfect playing conditions, a pitch in good shape and the allocation of a real referee our exotic opposition threatened to ruin the day with their shambolic time keeping and lack of organisation resulting in a delayed kick off and the start of the match seeing only 9 Orange clad footballers on the field. This quickly became 11.
The Salmon selectors determined to learn from the painful loss to the Legends the week before, set out the team’s objectives of a clean sheet, 2-3 goals to be scored, some expansive football on the large pitch and plenty of running and effort whilst keeping one step ahead of The Terrace’s reputation for niggly, disruptive play.
In the opening period the ball was played out confidently from the back and with the midfield dominating the ball went forward quickly and efficiently to the lone ranging striker Craig who was ably supported by some mobile play from Squirt, Fulton and Ashby.
While Nick and Kahu were scrapping it out in the middle of the park to good effect they also still managed to get forward and create a few chances and Nick put 2 outstanding raking long balls to Craig which generated genuine chances that didn’t produce goals which on another day they could have.
The breakthrough finally came when John D. clipped a corner to the edge of the 6 yard box and Simon headed a dangerous ball into the goalmouth and a Terrace player handled and the referee pointed to the spot.
Up stepped top goalscorer Ireson and the keeper had no chance, 1-0.
The Salmon were dominating the match and after a useful cross from (Wozza or Squirt ??) the ball bounced loose in the 6 yard box and quick as a flash Fulton got there first and steered the ball into the net for a well deserved goal, 2-0.
A quick half time turnaround and immediately The Terrace were on attack refusing to give in and pushing forward at every opportunity only to be thwarted by the strong central defenders Richard and Simon, and the tenacious defending of Dave and Adam.
Backed up by keeper Richard the defence were committed to achieving the elusive clean sheet the selectors had pleaded for pre match while the midfield worked hard to dominate and keep the Salmon flowing forward.
However goals were proving hard to come by and a slim 2-0 lead gave The Terrace some hope and belief they could still get something out of the game.
However, with 15 minutes to go the ball broke to John D. who played a first time 40 metre pass that cut through and in behind the defence and left striker Craig on a clean break with only the keeper to beat and a clinical finish ended any hopes and dreams The Terrace were clinging to and the game was effectively won, 3-0.
There was still some more action though as another John D. corner was flicked on by Simon and Wozza was nearly in for the 4 th goal, while at the other end The Terrace striker blazed over the bar from 6 yards out with the goal at his mercy.
Overall, the pre match objectives were achieved, Simon’s return at the back greatly assisted the defence keep a clean sheet, 3 good goals were scored and a few other good chances were created, Fulton and Ashby got through a huge amount of running and their pace and enthusiasm caused The Terrace big problems all over the park, Dave got some good moves happening down the left flank while showing he could also get back quickly and his photo on the front cover of Monday’s paper was fully deserved, Adam tidied up the right back spot and also showed some pace getting forward, James managed to cover lots of ground and is still in search of his ideal position ( something the selectors are aware of and contemplating), Squirt seemed to have got over his hammy problem and made some good passes and movements as did Kahu whose fitness should benefit from his first game back after a few weeks away. Wozza showed after a disrupted start that his recent Man of the Match performance is likely to be repeated and his keenness in the penalty area will soon produce a few goals. Nick’s tackling was strong and a couple of sublime passes hinted at what could be when a little extra match fitness takes full effect. Richard H. was solid and reliable as ever and Richard the Goalie celebrated the Salmon’s first clean sheet of this season, which as a keeper you can’t do any better than that. Craig’s 2 goals were well taken and his running into space his best this season stretching The Terrace all afternoon, his goalscorer’s ego and natural sense of superiority should be well satisfied for at least a week. John D.’s fitness is improving and a few passes showed small glimpses of his form from his best ever season which was 32 years ago.
Have the Mighty Salmon turned the corner and set themselves for a majestic run of great results and with it a charge up the league ladder ??
Or was this a simple victory over a winless team who are rooted to the bottom of the table ??
What brilliant strategy and set of objectives will the selectors produce for the next match ??
Will Fulton mount a challenge to Craig to become the team’s top goalscorer ??
Are hard fought clean sheets going to become a regular occurrence ??
Will Dave Armstrong continue to keep Rachel Hunter off the front page of The Dom Post ??
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