Match Reports (League & Cup)
17th April 2010 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 2-2 Melbourne Sports Reserves
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, Dave Birchnall, Chris Amor (Mitchell Goodwin, 45), Alex Diner, Luke Paskell, Paul Shawyer, James Korosec, Nick Shawyer(c), Ben Stone (Daniel Denton, 60), Kyle Murray, Edwin Jabbari (Adam Ferdinandi, 60).
Goals: Edwin Jabbari (10), Ben Stone (15).
14th April 2010 - St. Mary's Cup Final
Chingford Harriers 1-2 RYPSA (after extra-time)
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, Dave Birchnall, Mitchell Goodwin, Alex Diner, Luke Paskell, Paul Shawyer, James Korosec, Chris Amor, Nick Shawyer(c), Kyle Murray (Adam Ferdinand, 75), Edwin Jabbari (Ben Stone, 45).
Goals: Nick Shawyer (25).
10th April 2010 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 3-1 AAH Romford
After already raising eyebrows by beating AAH Romford twice, the Harriers entered this match knowing that a win would be a huge step towards their promotion hopes. The game couldn't have started better for the Harriers. A long free kick from Luke was spilt by the Romford keeper and Edwin was on hand to plough it in the old onion bag. The rest of the half was spent mainly in the Harriers box with a barrage of long throws penetrating their box. However, the Harriers defence was more than equal to the task with Romford firing blanks from every position.
The second half began well for the Harriers and it wasn't long before the second goal arrived. A blistering turn of pace down the ring wing from kyle saw him ghost past the Romford defence and deliver a package that was too big to turn down. Edwin pounced onto the incoming ball and stroked it delicately past the onrushing keeper to double the Harriers dominance. Romford managed to reduce the lead minutes later as a free kick on the edge of the box smashed its way into the Harriers net. They pressed for an equaliser but they were to be left frustrated as the Harriers defence stood firm. Victory was assured for the Harriers 10 minutes later. A long throw from Korosec found Nick unmarked in the 6 yard box and he dived down to head the ball into the net with conviction. A rattled Romford side were unable to pick themselves up and the Harriers clung on for a vital victory.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, Dave Birchnall, Mitchell Goodwin, Alex Diner, Luke Paskell, Adam Ferdinand, James Korosec, Daniel Denton, Nick Shawyer(c), Kyle Murray, Edwin Jabbari (Ben Stone, 65).
Goals: Edwin Jabbari (1, 54), Nick Shawyer (60).
03rd April 2010 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 2-1 Newham Royals
The Harriers continued their push for the double by making hard work of a 2-1 victory against a very spirited Newham Royals side in the league. Right from the kick-off, the Harriers seemed to be the dominant force and were keen to exploit the lacklustre pace in the Newham Royals defence. It seemed like everyone from the forwards and midfield were keen on having a go at goal but perhaps the best chances fell to Nick and Adam, both of whom had powerful shots tipped over the bar by the impressive Newham keeper. On the rare occassion that Newham did get forward, their little striker seemed lively and caused problems with the best chance for Newham coming from a missed shot at an open goal after beating Scott to a through ball. The Harriers piled on the pressure in the last 15 minutes of the half yet miraculously the ball just wouldn't go in with notable chances for Ben and Mitchell. Half-time was met by relief from Newham and frustration from the Harriers as the score had somehow remained 0-0 despite a handful of good chances for the Harriers.
The second half began with yet more domination for the Harriers but this time their efforts were rewarded with a goal just 10 minutes into the half. Good interplay between Dave and Lefty provided Lefty with a chance to shoot on the angle from the edge of the box. His low shot flew right into the corner of the net leaving the keeper with no chance and the Harriers with justice as they went 1-0 up. Those who thought that a goal-fest would follow were quickly silenced as Newham equalised just 5 minutes later. The little tricky forward again weaved his way through three Harriers defenders before laying the ball off to his strike partner. Without even taking a touch, his high curling shot from just outside the box found Scott back tracking towards his goal but to no avail as the ball nestled in the roof of the net to make it 1-1 with just under 25 minutes left to play. The Harriers knew they were playing to save their season but seemed to be running low on ideas. A double substitution followed (Edwin and Paul for Ben and Adam) as the Harriers went in search of the important winner. Finally, it came with just 10 minutes to go. The tired Newham Royals defence fell asleep as Lefty played in Kyle who took his time to stroke the ball low into the net to make it 2-1 as everyone breathed a massive sigh of relief. A return from injury for Denton (on for Korosec) was a welcome sight and a sign that the Harriers were looking to close out the game with fresh legs. They seemed to be in control and even had chances to grab a third goal but had to endure two final nail biting moments as a Newham ball into the box was met by a Newham head which produced a good reflex save from Scott as he tipped the ball over the bar just moments after Mitchell had made an excellently timed challenge in the box to prevent a shot that was almost certainly goalbound. The game ended 2-1 to the Harriers, confirming their place at joint 1st with just two league games to play.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, Dave Birchnall, Mitchell Goodwin, Alex Diner, Luke Paskell, Adam Ferdinand (Paul Shawyer, 78), James Korosec (Daniel Denton, 82), Nick Shawyer(c), James Gladwin, Ben Stone (Edwin Jabbari, 75), Kyle Murray.
Goals: James Gladwin (55), Kyle Murray (80).
27th March 2010 - League Match
AAH Romford 2-3 Chingford Harriers
After dumping them out of the St. Mary's Cup just 14 days ago and earning a place in the final, the Harriers once again defeated AAH Romford and this time the reward was a major boost for their title aspirations. Armed with a squad of 15, the Harriers travelled to Romford in the knowledge that the home side would be keen to gain revenge after the events from a fortnight ago. However, it was the Harriers who edged the opening 15 minutes in terms of possession and early pressure and went close when a looping header from Luke dropped onto the bar and went out of play for a goal kick. Just moments after AAH Romford began to get back into the game, the first goal of the game came against the run of play. After being awarded a dubious free-kick, the resulting ball into the box was spilled by Scott and after a scramble in the 6 yard area the ball found itself the net to make it 1-0 with 25 minutes gone. With nothing much happening in either box, the rest of the half was played out mostly in the middle of the pitch with the only Harriers chance coming via a flick on from Edwin to Dave whose effort was smothered by the keeper to leave the score at 1-0 to AAH Romford at half-time.
Edwin made way for Kyle at half-time as the Harriers sought a way back into the game. Again, the Harriers had the edge in the first 15 minutes of the half as they put pressure on the AAH Romford defence but only half chances came as the Romford keeper remained un-tested. Disappointingly, the Harriers pressure seemed to begin to wane, allowing AAH Romford back into the game but their search for a killer goal was fruitless as just like the other end, only half chances presented themselves without troubling the keeper. Two more subs (Ben and Lefty for Adam and Nick) were the final options from the bench as time was running out. Then the game well and truly came alive! A through ball from Lefty was met by Ben who beat the out-rushing keeper to the ball and rounded him before slotting in to make it 1-1 with just over 10 minutes to go. Moments later, the Harriers took a shock lead as Ben received a ball from Kyle and struck a lob from the edge of the area. As the Harriers held their breath, the Romford keeper began back-tracking but his finger tips could not stop the ball from trickling into the net and the Harriers began celebrating as they went 2-1 up with just 10 minutes to go. Just like a fortnight ago, the inevitable onslaught followed except this time AAH Romford earnt what seemed like a match saving goal with just 2 minutes to go. Once again the goal came from a dubious free-kick. However, the resulting strike was a top class effort as a slight deflection only aided the ball in flying into the top corner of the net with Scott well and truly beaten. Many a Harriers fan would've taken the point with mild disappointment. However, the Harriers players had other ideas! With just seconds to go, the Harriers were awarded a corner. Lefty's corner evaded a heap of players before reaching an un-marked Chris Amor at the back post and his leg deflected the ball into the net to send the Harriers into raptures as they went 3-2 up. As AAH Romford kicked off, the referee blew up to end an incredible match and confirm the Harriers' double victory over AAH Romford. With just three games to go in the league, the Harriers will need to take maximum points to have any chance of winning the league (including the final chapter of the trilogy of Chingford Harriers vs AAH Romford).
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, Paul Shawyer, Mitchell Goodwin, Alex Diner, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, James Korosec, Nick Shawyer(c) (James Gladwin, 73), Chris Amor, Adam Ferdinandi (Ben Stone, 60), Edwin Jabbari (Kyle Murray, 45).
Goals: Ben Stone (77, 80), Chris Amor (90).
13th March 2010 - St. Mary's Cup Semi-Final
Chingford Harriers 1-0 AAH Romford
The Harriers booked their place in the final of the St.Mary's Cup with a tensely fought 1-0 victory against a hard working AAH Romford side. With the teams having not met eachother yet this season, both sides were keen to stamp their authority early on in the game and it was definitely the Harriers who won that first battle. Although no early chances arose, the Harriers were clearly causing some unease amongst the AAH Romford defence with a large number of balls over the top and, of course, troublesome long throws from James Korosec. The first real chance of the half fell to Kyle on 25 minutes. After the AAH Romford defence failed to deal with a long punt up the pitch, Kyle found himself heading towards goal but unfortunately his resulting shot merely trickled into the hands of the keeper. Another chance followed soon after, this time coming from a Korosec throw into the box which found Dave's head but his header could only come agonizingly close to a goal as it pinged back off the bar. At the other end, AAH Romford were beginning to cause some problems of their own with balls being put into the Harriers box. Although Scott and the Harriers defence were confidently dealing with the pressure, a couple of free headers in the area fell to AAH Romford but they were unable to be directed goalwards to leave the score 0-0 at half-time.
The second half started much like the first, with the Harriers setting the pace early on without really creating much in front of goal. The ball seemed to be spending alot of the half near the middle of the pitch as both teams were finding it hard to create chances and were instead relying on set pieces. However, as time went by, AAH Romford began to again create a few problems via balls being put into the box. Once again, Scott and the Harriers defence were immense in clearing their lines although another couple of free headers will go down as good chances, inlcuding one which was cleared off the line by Amor. With just over 5 minutes to go, Trev brought on Adam for Edwin with fresh legs needed for the impending extra-time period. But then came the moment of glory on 87 minutes, and it was a James Korosec long throw which naturally proved to be the provider. The looping throw into the box could only be flicked on by an AAH Romford defender, allowing the ball to fall kindly to Paul at the back post and his header flew into the net to get him his first goal of the season and more importantly to make it 1-0 to the Harriers with just 3 minutes to go. Then came the expected last ditch barrage of AAH Romford pressure but time and time again their balls into the box were swatted away by Scott and the Harriers defence. With the extra 2 minutes of injury time dealt with, the referee's final whistle was met with joy from the Harriers as they confirmed their place in the final of the St. Mary's Cup vs RYPSA which will be played on 14/04/2010 at Wadham Lodge, Walthamstow, 7:30pm kick-off.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, Mitchell Goodwin, Alex Diner, Chris Amor, Dave Birchnall, James Korosec, Nick Shawyer(c), Paul Shawyer, Kyle Murray, Edwin Jabbari (Adam Ferdinand, 84).
Goals: Paul Shawyer (87).
20th February 2010 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 2-1 Ryan B
The Harriers got back to winning ways with an almost comfortable win against a much improved Ryan B side. After the disappointment of the previous two weeks, the Harriers needed a response and things looked good after some good early passing moves put pressure on the Ryan B defence and signalled the Harriers intent. Their efforts were duly rewarded with an early goal on 8 minutes and after endless hours of practising it on the training ground, a James Korosec long throw finally paid off with goal! The missile flew in from the right hand side of the goal and into the box where it was met by the head of an un-marked Nick whose header flew into the net to make it 1-0. From early on it was clear that Ryan B were particularly prone to being exposed on the wings and the Harriers used this to their advantage on a countless number of occasions with Lefty and Adam working hard. This led to chances for both Edwin and Kyle who dragged their shots wide of the goal and Nick, whose free header went over. However, it was the latter who was to double his tally soon after and again the provider turned out to be Korosec. Another Korosec throw was dealt with by the Ryan B defence but the header out only fell back to Korosec who drilled the ball back into the box where Nick was on hand to sidefoot into the corner of net to make it 2-0 to the Harriers. The remainder of the half highlighted how the ever impressive Harriers defence were also playing well as the Ryan B attack were limited to long range efforts which didn't really test Scott, leaving the score 2-0 at half-time.
Adam was replaced by Jamie for the second half as the Harriers sought to kill the game off. Ryan B started the half well and appeared more positive going forward in their search for a way back into the game. This clearly opened the game up, but it was the Harriers who benefited more as they were gifted with yet more chances. The first fell to Edwin who latched onto Nick's through ball but his shot was saved well by the keeper and pushed away for a corner. Kyle followed up soon after with a chance of his own but his shot could only find the side-netting. At the other end, Ryan B were putting balls into the box but were finding it hard to get a sniff at goal, mainly due to the Harriers defence and confident claims by Scott. However, they got a goal back as the Harriers fell asleep momentarily on 70 minutes. With three Harriers players using the opportunity of the break in play to get a drink, Ryan B took a quick free-kick which ended up in the box and the result was a close range shot which went in off Scott to make it 2-1 with just 20 minutes to go. The Harriers responded well with a couple of chances to restore their two goal lead. Nick narrowly missed out on completing his hat-trick as another free header just sailed wide and Edwin squandered another opportunity after being put through on goal. The only real scare for the Harriers came with just over 10 minutes to go when a good Ryan B move down the left led to a close range toe poke from a tight angle which thankfully hit the post and went out of play for a goal kick. With 10 minutes to go the nausea stricken Edwin was replaced by the injured Alex (who disappointedly slotted into the defence after thinking he was going up front). The Harriers had one final chance to score as Jamie scuffed his shot straight at the keeper after being put through on goal. However, nothing much was happening at the other end and the Harriers managed to avoid a nervy last few minutes as they held out to finish the game with a 2-1 victory which keeps them at the top of Division 2.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, Mitchell Goodwin, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, James Korosec, Nick Shawyer(c), Paul Shawyer, Adam Ferdinand (Jamie Henshaw, 45), Kyle Murray, Edwin Jabbari (Alex Diner, 80).
Goals: Nick Shawyer (8, 25).
13th February 2010 - League Match
Val Park Athletic 2-2 Chingford Harriers
The Harriers endured yet more disappointment with a frustrating 2-2 draw against Val Park Athletic. With both Luke and Nick away, the Harriers resorted to a more unfamiliar 4-3-3 formation. The first 10 minutes proved to be quite a tentative affair as both teams tried to find their feet, especially the Harriers with their new formation. With no action in either box after 15 minutes, it seemed like the only source of a goal was going to be from an absolute screamer. Instead, the first goal came from a bit of a howler on 15 minutes via a scuffed Val Park Athletic shot from outside of the box. With the ball seemingly going wide of the goal, Scott's decision to go down to save somehow ended up with him deflecting the ball in the net and conceding an own goal to make it 1-0 to Val Park Athletic in bizarre circumstances. The Harriers needed a response but it became evident that three in midfield just wasn't working as the Harriers continued to fail to create many chances and were over-run in the middle of the pitch. However, the Harriers deserved a bit of luck and certainly got it with their equaliser on 30 minutes. A decent move led to Paul passing to Edwin whose speculative volley from outside of the box was misjudged by the Val Park Athletic keeper who could only watch as the ball went through his hands and trickled past him into the corner of the net. With the scoreline reading 1-1 the Harriers seemed to be revitalised and spent the last 15 minutes of the half playing some decent possession football which, although didn't provide any chances, certainly provided hope for the second half.
The decision was made to switch to a 4-4-2 formation for the second half with Ben coming on for Amor too. The second half started brighter than the first and it seemed like the game was opening up, however once again the lack of chances for either team and the lack of a prominent Harriers midfield was evident. Jamie made way for Kyle on 55 minutes as the Harriers went in search of some inspiration for a goal. However, minutes later they found themselves behind again. A ball played over the top saw Scott being slightly slow to come off his line, enabling a Val Park Athletic forward to get to the ball first and lob Scott. Alex's best efforts to run back to the goal saw him just about get to the ball but his clearing header could only clip the underside of the bar and come back out to the other Val Park Athletic forward who smashed the ball into an open net to make it 2-1 with 30 minutes left to play. The Harriers responded well and began to put the pressure on and were duly rewarded with an equaliser just 10 minutes later. Good work down the right side of the pitch from Dave, Adam and Paul led to the ball finding itself in the Val Park Athletic box and at the feet of Ben whose shot clearly hit the arm of a Val Park Athletic player, allowing the referee to have no hesitation in awarding the Harriers a penalty. Lefty's less than accurate kick thankfully found the net to make the score 2-2 with just under 20 minutes to go. The rest of the game was played out at a tired pace with both teams having few chances to find a winner. The Harriers' chances came from Kyle, whose shot from outside the box was straight at the keeper, and Dave whose volley from a corner was cleared off the line. The best opportunity of the half fell to Val Park Athletic but their chance ended with Scott making a point blank save after a Val Park Athletic forward had got on the end of a ball flashed across the 6 yard box. Finally, the Harriers' misery was completed with just seconds to go as Lefty received a straight red for over-expressing his disappointment towards the referee for not awarding his efforts with a corner. As he walked off the pitch, the referee blew up for full time to confirm another less than satisfactory result for the Harriers for the second week running.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin (sent off, 90), Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin(c), Dave Birchnall, James Korosec, Paul Shawyer, Chris Amor (Ben Stone, 45), Jamie Henshaw (Kyle Murray, 55), Adam Ferdinand, Edwin Jabbari.
Goals: Edwin Jabbari (30), James Gladwin (pen, 71).
06th February 2010 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 1-3 Castle United Reserves
The Harriers' 5 match unbeaten run came to an abrupt end with a 3-1 loss at hands of Castle United Reserves. The Harriers made an excellent start to the game, putting the Castle United Reserves defence under pressure on a countless number of occasions, mainly from corners and James Korosec long throws. With the Harriers taking control of the game, a goal from a set piece seemed the most likely source and that was exactly what happened. Edwin's deep corner to the back post was met by the head of Luke whose header flew in to give the Harriers a deserved lead on 25 minutes. Immediately from the kick off, the Harriers had another chance as Ben went through on goal but the resulting shot was straight at the keeper. Castle United Reserves began panicking and moments later found themselves on the ropes again in a 2 vs 2 situation. An interception led to Ben finding Dave who beat his man and squared the ball to Edwin whose shot was saved well by the legs of the keeper. With the opportunity to hit the opposition with a double whammy gone, Castle United Reserves started to get back into the game with a good display of passing but didn't really give Scott anything difficult to deal with. With half-time approaching it seemed like the Harriers would be taking a well deserved lead into the break. However, it wasn't to be as a mis-kick in the box from Luke led to the Castle United Reserves forward pouncing on the opportunity and slotting in by Scott's near post to make it 1-1 with the half-time whistle only moments away.
The second half started with the Harriers determined to regain the lead they felt that they had deserved. However, Castle United Reserves came back out a different side and began to boss the midfield and create chances. With not much happening up front for the Harriers, all the action was down the other end and the pressure finally cracked the Harriers defence once again on the hour mark. Another good passing move led to the Harriers defence backing off the Castle United Reserves forward who took his opportunity to fire in low just past Scott's outstretched hand to make it 2-1 to the opposition. Despite two subs (Jamie and Adam on for Ben and the injured Lefty) and much encouragement, the Harriers found it very hard to get back into the game and time and time again the ball simply came back into the Harriers' half of the pitch. A Castle United Reserves winner seemed inevitable and it came with just 15 minutes to go. Another good passing move ended up with the ball bouncing around in the box, going up in the air and then ending with a Castle United Reserves player getting to the ball before Scott to head in to make it 3-1. The remainder of the game was played at a lacklustre pace with neither team causing any problems in particular. The game ended with the scoreline reading 3-1 to Castle United Reserves which may prove to be detrimental to the Harriers' title/promotion hopes.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin (Adam Ferdinandi, 70), Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, James Korosec, Nick Shawyer(c), Paul Shawyer, Ben Stone (Jamie Henshaw, 65), Edwin Jabbari.
Goals: Luke Paskell (25).
30th January 2010 - St. Mary's Cup Quarter-Final
Val Park Athletic 0-2 Chingford Harriers
The Harriers continued their impressive run of form with a debut win in the St. Mary's Cup against Val Park Athletic. Much like the pitch, this game turned out to be quite an ugly affair. It was the Harriers who started better, putting on alot of pressure on the Val Park Athletic defence. However, it wasn't long before the first signs of bad blood occured as an angry Val Park Athletic player found himself booked for attempting to start a fight with Korosec. Undeterred by the violence and driven on by the midfield trio of Korosec, Nick and Paul, the Harriers began to create chances with Edwin half-volleying just past the post and Nick marginally heading over the bar. Not much was happening at the other end (credit to the rock solid defence) with Scott only being called into action once as he saw a shot go past him and into the side-netting. Another Val Park Athletic yellow card later and with 30 minutes gone, the Harriers were still in command but could not find the net with Edwin wasting the two best chances of the half, the first sliced wide and the second blazed over the bar to leave the score 0-0 at half-time.
The Harriers started the second half much like the first, dominating the possession, and it wasn't long before their efforts were rewarded with a goal. A corner from Lefty evaded everyone in the box and was picked up by Edwin at the back post. Before even having a chance to turn, a stupid challenge from behind awarded the Harriers a penalty which Nick converted to make it 1-0 on 50 minutes. The goal signalled a return for the underlying aggression in Val Park Athletic. Firstly, the original member of the yellow card club went studs up on Nick's knee to receive his marching orders and then another clumsy hack from behind gave Val Park another yellow card. With the one man advantage, numerous corners and troublesome Korosec throws, the Harriers continued their dominance, yet once again went close on many occasions without scoring with the pick of the bunch coming from Nick forcing a good save from the keeper with a header and then later heading just over, and Alex having a shot in the box saved well by the Val Park Athletic keeper. With 20 minutes to go, Trev brought on Ben for Adam. After an audacious attempt at a volley upon his introduction, it was the substitute who was to seal the game for the Harriers with just under 10 minutes to go. Another corner from Lefty led to many Harriers players scrambling for the ball in the box. After a bit of pin-ball, Ben found the ball at his feet and his shot from ten yards out found the roof of the net to signal his first goal of the season. The Harriers saw out the rest of the game well and ensured that the team got its third clean sheet of the season. The final whistle signalled a hard fought 2-0 victory for the Harriers who have now booked themselves a home tie in the semi-finals against AAH Romford.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, James Korosec, Nick Shawyer(c), Paul Shawyer, Adam Ferdinandi (Ben Stone, 70), Edwin Jabbari.
Goals: Nick Shawyer (pen, 50), Ben Stone (83).
23rd January 2010 - League Match
Redbridge Elite Reserves 1-2 Chingford Harriers
After a lengthy winter break, the Harriers stretched their lead at the top of Division 2 to 4 points with a hard fought 2-1 victory against a spirited Redbridge Elite Reserves side. Any prospects of a dull encounter were blown away very quickly as the first 15 minutes provided plenty of talking points. The first came on 4 minutes with the Harriers' first attack. An interception in the middle of the pitch allowed Korosec to advance with the ball. His through ball over the top was picked up by Edwin who rounded the keeper before cutting back on his right foot to slot into the net despite the efforts of the Redbridge Elite Reserves defence on the goal-line. The Harriers barely had time to celebrate the goal as Redbridge attacked straight from the kick-off and were awarded a penalty after Alex handballed in the area. Scott guessed correctly as he dived to his left but the referee ordered a re-take as players had run into the area before the penalty was taken. A few seconds later, Scott completed his heroics as he correctly dived to his right before helplessly watching a duo of Redbrdige players pounce onto the rebound and miss from 2 yards with the goal at their mercy. The drama didn't end there as the Harriers were forced into an early substitution on 15 minutes with Ben Stone coming on for Mitchell Goodwin who picked up a hip injury. The game finally started to settle down with the Harriers doing most of the attacking. Two great chances in 10 minutes left the Harriers frustrated, the first falling to Nick whose header came back off the post and the second falling to Kyle who air-kicked in the 6 yard box after a probing long throw from Korosec. However, the pressure paid off on 35 minutes as the Harriers deservedly extended their lead. Another through ball, this time from Lefty, was picked up by Nick who side footed the ball over the keeper and into the roof of the net to make it 2-0 which is how it stayed until half-time.
The second half began a little more tentatively than the first but it was Redbridge Elite Reserves who settled the quicker. Despite this, the Harriers had the better goal scoring opportunities in the first 15 minutes of the second half with chances falling to both Kyle and Nick. However, the hour mark signalled the beginning of a period of domination for Redbridge Elite Reserves as they began to pile on the pressure. A couple of flashes past Scott's post sent out a warning shot to the Harriers defence. Unfortunately, there was not much they could do as Redbridge Elite Reserves pulled a goal back on 70 minutes. A shot from just inside the box was pushed away by Scott only for the rebound to fall to a Redbridge player who managed to squeeze the ball in from a very tight angle to make it 2-1 with just 20 minutes remaining. Fresh legs came in the form of Adam (on for Kyle) but Redbridge continued to press to find an equaliser. The game opened up yet the Harriers defence worked brilliantly as a unit to keep Redbridge at bay. A few half chances fell to Edwin, who shot wide and then failed to find an unmarked Adam in the area, and Paul, who sliced wide after going through on goal. The final chance of the game fell to Redbridge Elite Reserves but it was to be the Harriers' day as Scott pushed the shot away moments before the referee blew up for full-time with the scoreline reading 2-1 to the Harriers which leaves them 4 points clear at the top of the table.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin (Ben Stone, 15), Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, James Korosec, Nick Shawyer(c), Paul Shawyer, Kyle Murray (Adam Ferdinandi, 70), Edwin Jabbari.
Goals: Edwin Jabbari (4), Nick Shawyer (35).
12th December 2009 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 2-1 Bethnal Green Celtic
The Harriers returned to the summit of Division 2 with a 2-1 win against bottom of the league Bethnal Green Celtic in rather cold weather conditions. The much changed (and improved) Bethnal Green Celtic side seemed keen to strive forwards early on but didn't really create any clear cut chances. In contrast, their defence didn't seem so comfortable and it was this which led to the Harriers drawing first blood on 10 minutes. Good work by Kyle led to him beating his man on the far right and the resulting low, whipped in ball was met by Edwin for a tap in to make it 1-0 to the Harriers. With the first goal in the bag, the Harriers settled down and began to enjoy a great deal of the possession. A succession of set pieces piled the pressure onto the Bethnal Green Celtic defence and their resilience eventually broke on 25 minutes in unfortunate circumstances. Another corner, this time delivered from Kyle on the right, was met by the head of a Bethnal Green Celtic defender to guide the ball downwards and through the legs of his keeper to make it 2-0 to the Harriers. The goal opened the game up and provoked somewhat of a Bethnal Green Celtic response as they tried to get back into the game with their only noticeable chance coming from a free-kick which zipped just past Scott's right hand post. A Harriers chance soon followed via Kyle pulling the ball back for Edwin whose curling shot was pushed over by the keeper for a corner. However, it was Bethnal Green Celtic who got the goal just before half-time in disappointing circumstances from a Harriers point of view. It came from a ball, deep into the Harriers box which Scott left for his defence to deal with. The resulting goal mouth scramble led to a toe poke from a Bethnal Green Celtic player to make it 2-1 which is how it stayed until half-time.
With Korosec suffering from mild concussion and Jamie needing extended minutes on the pitch, Trev made two changes at the half-time interval (Cheaveau and Jamie on for Korosec and Edwin). The game continued to open up in the second half and the signs were good as the Harriers seemed to be on the attack. The first real chance fell to Adam as he ran onto a ball across the box which he attempted to hit first time but unfortunately ended up slicing wide. The pressure continued and led to a 15 minute period of two or three really good chances which fell to Jamie with the keeper doing well to prevent the Harriers lead being extended. A welcome return for Paul Shawyer (on for Adam) also provided extra hope for a third Harriers goal. However, with no goal coming and just under 10 minutes to go, Bethnal Green Celtic sensed that they had a chance to get something out of the game and went on the attack. Their pressure was dealt with very competently by the Harriers defence which limited Bethnal Green Celtic to just two real chances. The first was a shot outside the box which was parried by Scott and the second was a goal mouth scramble which Scott dealt with bravely. After a nervy couple of minutes of stoppage time, the final whistle blew to end the game with the scoreline reading 2-1 to the Harriers which leaves them top of the table, having played 2 games more than 2nd placed AAH Romford.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin, Luke Paskell, Adam Ferdinandi (Paul Shawyer, 70), Nick Shawyer(c), James Korosec (James Cheaveau, 45), Chris Amor, Edwin Jabbari (Jamie Henshaw, 45), Kyle Murray.
Goals: Edwin Jabbari (10), Own Goal (25).
28th November 2009 - League Match
Melbourne Sports Reserves 3-4 Chingford Harriers
The Harriers marked their half-way point in the season by beating Melbourne Sports Reserves in what turned out to be quite a nerve-wracking game. There wasn't even time to settle down into positions before the first goal came, with first blood being drawn by Melbourne Sports Reserves on 5 minutes. A tackle on Dan just inside the Harriers half led to a Melbourne Sports Reserves player running towards the Harriers goal. With the Harriers defence sitting back, he was allowed to hit a fine left foot drive which, despite Scott getting a hand to, flew into the top corner to make it 1-0. The Harriers responded with a good barrage of pressure, however their rhythm was halted on 20 minutes when Dan had to be carried off the pitch and replaced by Adam after injuring his ankle going for a 50-50 ball. Undeterred by the disruption, the Harriers continued to push and came close to the equaliser soon after when Dave's cross/shot came back off the post. However, the equaliser finally came on 32 minutes after a good Harriers move. A ball played in the air on the right was flicked on by Dave to Edwin who, with his back to goal, turned and drove the ball low into the net to make it 1-1. The rest of the half was played out with the Harriers dominating possession and there were half-chances for Edwin, Nick, Alex and Adam which eluded the goal to leave the scoreline reading 1-1 at the half-time interval.
The second half pretty much started like the first, an early goal, this time for the Harriers. With Melbourne Sports Reserves trying to pass it around at the back, a wayward pass was intercepted by Kyle who ran on with the ball and slotted it home nicely into the corner to make it 2-1. With the lead now in their favour and the game starting to open up, the Harriers started to play some confident football and a third goal duly followed just before the hour mark. Nick found himself un-challenged in the centre of the pitch and his header through to Kyle was finished superbly with a cheeky lob over the keeper's head to make it 3-1. The domination continued and Trev had the luxury of making his last sub on 75 minutes (Jamie on for Edwin) with no worries about the scoreline. That was to be made even more true just 2 minutes later when Kyle completed his hat-trick. With Adam putting Kyle through on goal, the keeper found himself in no-mans land allowing Kyle to simply round him and pass the ball into an empty net to make it 4-1. With the game seemingly dead and buried, the Harriers took their foot off the gas allowing Melbourne Sports Reserves back into the game. The first signs of a comeback came with a thunderous free-kick outside the box which Scott had no chance of saving as it flew into the top corner. Then with just 5 minutes left they brought the scoreline back to 4-3 with a ball over the top which the forward got to before Scott and lobbed it into the net. A nervy last 5 minutes saw end to end action but the Harriers really should have killed the game off with two guilt-edge chances each for both Kyle and Jamie, all of them squandered with an un-marked Nick screaming for a pass back to him on pretty much each occasion! Nevertheless, the Harriers held out to finish the game with a 4-3 win. The win maintains their position at 2nd in the league. However, with losses for both RYPSA and Castle United Reserves, today's win puts the Harriers right back in the title/promotion hunt, making next week's clash against Castle United Reserves a very exciting prospect indeed.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, Daniel Denton (Adam Ferdinandi, 20), Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, Nick Shawyer(c), James Korosec, Chris Amor, Edwin Jabbari (Jamie Henshaw, 75), Kyle Murray.
Goals: Edwin Jabbari (32), Kyle Murray (48, 58, 77).
21st November 2009 - League Match
Ryan B 1-3 Chingford Harriers
The Harriers got back to winning ways with a performance that will once again leave them wondering how they made the game more difficult for themselves than it needed to be. Right from the kick-off it became evident that Ryan B were very uncomfortable on the ball, particularly in their own half. The Harriers were finding it all too easy to fall into a routine of passing it around but early shots were rather wayward. However, the first goal was not too far away, and it came on 20 minutes after good build-up play on the left. After working it down the left, Nick found himself unmarked inside the box. His shot was blocked by the keeper. The rebound fell to Lefty whose shot was saved well again but the rebound from that shot fell kindly back to Lefty whose volley this time left the keeper with no chance as it hit the back of the net to make it 1-0. On a long pitch, it seemed like the midfielders, particularly Korosec, had plenty of time to pick up the ball and look for balls over the top, especially as Ryan B were playing with quite a high line. It was a risky ploy which clearly backfired as the Harriers got the second goal just 10 minutes after the first. Again, with plenty of time on his hands, Korosec played the ball through to Kyle who was clearly onside (much to the protest of Ryan B) and he comfortably ran onto the ball and slotted home to make it 2-0. Despite the 2-0 deficit, Ryan B started to wake up and started to enjoy a decent bit of possession. However, the only time they really tested Scott was right at the end of the half with a header from a corner which Scott easily pushed past his post leaving the scoreline 2-0 at half-time. The half-time message brought about a feeling of deja vu from previous games as Trev once again encouraged the Harriers to find a third goal to kill the game off.
The start of the second half didn't quite go to plan for the Harriers as Ryan B came out fighting and found themselves in the Harriers box on quite a few occassions. Their pressure only took 10 minutes to break the Harriers resiliance and disappointingly the goal came from a set piece. The ball into the box led to a Ryan B player evading Korosec's marking, allowing him to head into the top corner of the goal, much to the annoyance of Scott whose hopes of a clean sheet were dashed. More importantly, after appearing to be cruising comfortably, the Harriers found themselves with a delicate one goal lead with 35 minutes still to play. However, Edwin replaced Adam on the hour mark and it seemed like the combination of the change and tiring Ryan B legs led to a more attack minded Harriers with the heat being taken off the defence. Then came a frustrating few minutes as the game seemingly opened up. Firstly, a good move down the right led to Kyle whipping the ball across the box to Edwin who fluffed his shot with the goal at his peril. Next, again, a good move down the right led to Dave being through on goal and past the keeper on the far right of the pitch. He squared the ball to Edwin who scored a simple tap-in but the goal was ruled out for offside despite Edwin being behind both Dave and the goalkeeper when the ball was played! Then came Kyle's turn at a few golden chances. His first saw him put through on goal, unsurrounded and with two men to his left. He opted to shoot and Ryan B were once again let off the hook. A few minutes later he was put through by Edwin and this time everyone watched as his shot trickled just past the post with the keeper in no mans land. Another ruled out goal for Edwin, this time for shouting out, "leave it Nick,"
before volleying the ball into the corner of the net only made matters even more frustrating. Then, finally, the killer goal came with just 5 minutes to go. Substitute Jamie, after doing well to beat a defender in the Ryan B box, played the ball back to Edwin who was unmarked inside the box on the left hand side. He picked his spot and fired into the bottom right hand corner of the goal to make it 3-1, finally putting the game to bed. Despite making it harder than it needed to be, the game finished 3-1 to the Harriers which maintains their position at 2nd place in the league.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, Nick Shawyer(c), James Korosec, Chris Amor, Adam Ferdinandi (Edwin Jabbari, 60), Kyle Murray (Jamie Henshaw, 75).
Goals: James Gladwin (20), Kyle Murray (30), Edwin Jabbari (85).
14th November 2009 - League Match
RYPSA 2-0 Chingford Harriers
The Harriers suffered their second defeat of the season against a hard working RYPSA side in the cold, wind and rain. The conditions were clearly playing a part in the game from the outset as the RYPSA goalkeeper was having to repeatedly see his goal kicks blowing back to the edge of his box. The Harriers were also finding it hard to adapt to the conditions with many balls over the top being blown away from their intended target and many heavy touches allowing RYPSA to intercept and clear the ball. However, chances did come for the Harriers with Ben shooting wide and Mitchell forcing the keeper to tip over the bar. At the other end, RYPSA seemed more comfortable on the ball but only tested Scott once in the first-half with a shot from outside the box which he palmed away for a corner. The half-time whistle came as a welcome relief as both sides seemed happy to go into the break at 0-0.
The wind had died down somewhat for the start of the second half and this was evident as both teams began to be able to pass the ball around. However, it was RYPSA who seemed to be able to find the incisive balls up to their attacking players who were starting to cause the Harriers defence some problems. It wasn't long before RYPSA's pressure paid off with the opening goal on the hour mark. A run down the right wing led to a drag back to an un-marked player on the edge of the box who smashed the ball low and hard to make it 1-0. The Harriers found it hard to spark an immediate comeback and the game was killed off a few minutes later with RYPSA getting their second goal. A good passing move provided the ball to their forward who did well to beat the Harriers defence and then finish confidently. Despite being 2-0 down the Harriers tried to mount some pressure but rarely caused RYPSA any problems. The only real chance of the half for the Harriers fell to Kyle whose low shot was saved by the keeper's legs. It is also worth mentioning that the scoreline could have been even more depressing had it not been for Scott making some excellent saves in the second half, including one from Mitchell's head! Despite the game finishing 2-0 to RYPSA, the Harriers stay in 2nd place in the league. However, other teams around them (including RYPSA) have games in hand meaning that the next couple of games are vital must-win games before the big clash against Castle United Reserves on December 5th.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin, Dave Birchnall, Nick Shawyer(c), Luke Paskell, Chris Amor, Ben Stone (Daniel Denton, 80), Kyle Murray, Edwin Jabbari (Adam Ferdinandi, 77).
07th November 2009 - League Match
Newham Royals 0-2 Chingford Harriers
The Harriers kept up the pressure at the top of the table with a convincing 2-0 win against Newham Royals despite, once again, only having 11 men to call upon. Fresh from their 6-5 defeat the previous week (despite being 5-1 up at half-time), Newham Royals made a decent start to the match. Their tactic of continually putting balls into the box appeared to be causing trouble for the Harriers defence who failed to clear on a couple of occassions with Scott having to save low on one occasion (incidentally the only save he had to make all match!) However, it wasn't long before the Harriers started to get themselves into the game with some quality passing moves. Chances fell to both Kyle and Edwin but the best of them fell to Nick whose header was unluckily tipped onto the bar (somewhat of a recurring theme these days!). The omens were looking good and the first goal duly followed on the half-hour mark from a Dave free-kick from the right. Newham had previously looked uncomfortable with set pieces played into their box and this one was no exception. The free-kick led to a scramble in the box which somehow ended up with Kyle toe-punting the ball into corner of the net to make it 1-0, much to the annoyance of the Newham Royals defence. The second goal came just 8 minutes later, this time from an impressive Harriers move. After the ball was passed around the back four, Dave came away with the ball. His cross from the right found Nick who passed to Dan who found Kyle. With the ball on the edge of the area, Kyle made some space to shoot and the resulting shot nestled nicely into the the corner of the net with the keeper rooted to make it 2-0.
The half-time message was similar to last week. Chingford had to find the third goal to kill the game off. Although a third Harriers goal was not scored in the second half, what we did get to see was very positive for the Harriers. The remaining 45 minutes brought some really impressive passing moves, good use of the wings and good holding up of the ball. With Newham Royals not creating much at all, the bulk of the chances in the second half fell to the Harriers who had seemed to develop a shoot on site policy. Kyle had a couple of chances to add to his tally, Nick hit a thunderbolt just over the bar, Alex had a shot blocked in the 6 yard box and Edwin had a shot from outside of the box tipped wide by the keeper late on. It is worth mentioning that although they weren't threatened much, the Harriers defence was typically solid and thoroughly deserved their clean sheet. The game finished 2-0 to the Harriers, therefore maintaining their position at 2nd in the league going into the big game against RYPSA next week.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, Alex Diner, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, Nick Shawyer(c), James Korosec, Daniel Denton, Adam Ferdinandi, Kyle Murray, Edwin Jabbari.
Goals: Kyle Murray (30, 38).
31st October 2009 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 3-1 Redbridge Elite Reserves
The Harriers bounced back from their defeat last week with a commanding 3-1 win against a somewhat angry Redbridge Elite Reserves side. Armed with only 11 men, including stand in goalkeeper Paul Shawyer Snr, Chingford continually put the Redbridge Elite Reserves defence under pressure from the start which led to a couple of decent chances including Nick smashing the bar from outside the box. The hard work paid off on 20 minutes when Dave played in Adam who lifted the ball over the motionless keeper to make it 1-0. The persistent comical verbal abuse from Redbridge Elite Reserves began and with it came more and more pressure from the Harriers. Set pieces and long James Korosec throw-ins were clearly causing a great deal of trouble and it was a free-kick which brought the Harriers second goal. Luke pumped the ball into the box to an un-marked Dan who headed in from 2 yards out. With the Harriers cruising at 2-0 and Redbridge Elite Reserves resorting to long range shots which were bring confidently gathered by Paul Shawyer Snr, a Redbridge Elite Reserves goal was the last thing everyone was expecting. However, it came just 2 minutes after the Harriers second goal from a corner. The quickly taken corner was not anticipated by the Harriers defence and despite Cheaveau's best efforts, the ball was poked in at the near post to make it 2-1. The half-time message was clear. Chingford had to go on the attack to find the third goal to kill the game off.
Spurred on by some half-time arguing amongst themselves and a yellow card for their captain, Redbridge Elite Reserves came out fighting and had a spell of 20 minutes consisting of continually putting the ball into the Harriers box. However, the resiliant Harriers defence confidently dealt with the danger every time. Finally the sucker punch came with 25 minutes to go, and it was another of those long James Korosec throws which led to the goal. The Redbridge Elite Reserves defence were again left clueless by the long throw which allowed Nick to flick the ball on to an un-marked Dave to head/cheek/shoulder the ball into the corner of the net to make it 3-1. With fatigue beginning to set in, the Harriers spent the remainder of the game simply working as a unit to keep the opposition outside the Harriers box. Only one decent Redbridge Elite Reserves chance came shortly before the final whistle but a confident Paul Shawyer Snr punch over the bar ensured that the game finished with the scoreline reading 3-1 to the Harriers, pushing them up to 2nd in the league.
Chingford Harriers: Paul Shawyer Snr, James Gladwin, James Cheaveau, Alex Diner, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, Nick Shawyer(c), James Korosec, Daniel Denton, Adam Ferdinandi, Edwin Jabbari.
Goals: Adam Ferdinandi (20), Daniel Denton (38), Dave Birchnall (65).
24th October 2009 - League Match
Castle United Reserves 3-1 Chingford Harriers
The Harriers slumped to their first league defeat of the season courtesy of a 3-1 loss against Castle United Reserves. The two teams were no strangers to each other, having played twice already in friendlies and it showed as the opening few minutes were quite nervy for both teams with not much happening at either end of the pitch. The first real chance for Castle United reserves resulted in a goal as a through ball was slotted nicely into the corner of Scott's net. The response from the Harriers was positive. Some good passing football led to chances for Adam, Edwin and Dave who were unable to find the net. The hard work was almost undone when Castle United Reserves were offered a dubious penalty with Alex being judged to have taken out their player despite clearly taking the ball first. However, Chingford had Scott to thank as his brilliant tip round the post kept the Harriers in the game. Buoyed by the heroics of their birthday boy keeper, the Harriers piled on more pressure which finally paid off with just 3 minutes before half-time. A through ball from Amor led to Edwin just getting to the ball ahead of the keeper to see his shot rebound off the keeper's gloves back on to his shin and finally into the net, identical to the goal he got the previous week! The score remained 1-1 until half-time.
With Paul Shawyer on for Adam, the Harriers started the second half just as they had ended the first. However, it was 2 quick goals against the run of play which effectively burried the Harriers. The first, a brilliantly placed free-kick and the second, a lucky deflection, left the Harriers 3-1 down with just 30 minutes to go. With Castle United Reserves happy to sit back with the lead, chances fell to Edwin and Alex to reduce the deficit soon after but they failed to find the net. The Harriers made 2 more subs (Dan and Kyle for Lefty and Edwin) but still struggled to put away chances which fell to Paul Shawyer and Kyle, further highlighting the fact that today's game was all about taking your chances. The game finished with the scoreline reading 3-1 to Castle United Reserves, leaving the Harriers 3rd in the league.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin (Daniel Denton, 65), James Cheaveau, Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin, Dave Birchnall, Nick Shawyer(c), Luke Paskell, Chris Amor, Adam Ferdinandi (Paul Shawyer, 45), Edwin Jabbari (Kyle Murray 75).
Goals: Edwin Jabbari (42).
17th October 2009 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 3-1 Val Park Athletic
Chingford Harriers stormed to the top of Division 2 with a hard fought victory against a Val Park Athletic side who certainly made Chingford work for their 3 points. Despite having an hour of pre-match preparation in comparison to their opponents 90 seconds, the Harriers were slow to get into the game initially. The game eventually evened out after the first 10 minutes with the Harriers having more of the possession without really testing the keeper. The first Harriers goal came in bizarre circumstances on 20 minutes. A long throw from Amor into the box evaded everyone aside from Val Park Athletic's right back who prodded a header into his own net from just 6 yards out. Despite the setback, Val Park Athletic pushed on in search of an equaliser and started to see more of the ball in the midfield. However, again, not much amounted from such possession and for the remainder of the half, neither keeper really had much to do.
After some standing around in the cold whilst the manager imparted some wisdom, Chingford started the second half with real drive and didn't have to wait long for their second goal. A quick counter attack led to Adam playing a ball across the box. Edwin just got to the ball ahead of the keeper to see his shot rebound off the keeper's gloves back on to his shin and finally into the net to make it 2-0 on 50 minutes. The game then opened up with Val Park Athletic commiting more men forward. Edwin soon had another two chances to score another (the first, a left footed shot which brought a good save from the keeper and the other, a scramble in the box leading to a shot which was straight at the keeper). However, the hour mark saw the Harriers wrap up the 3 points with Adam getting his first goal of the season. Excellent work by Dave on the right wing led to him cutting a ball back to Adam who slotted home from the edge of the 6 yard box.
The Harriers were now piling on the pressure and Lefty, through on goal, had a chance to make it 4-0 with a shot which just went over the bar. With the game seemingly won, Chingford brought on Dan for Adam. However, the game changed on 75 minutes as Val Park Athletic got a goal back against the run of play via a follow-up from a shot which was initially saved by Scott. Lefty soon ran out of steam and made way for Ben Stone to endure the final 10 minutes. Despite then losing a player through injury and having no subs available, Val Park Athletic began to frequently attack the Harriers goal. A combination of good defending and 2 excellent saves by Scott meant that they didn't score another to potentially put the victory in doubt. At the other end of the pitch, the closing stages of the match also saw the Harriers have two good chances to score. Amor saw his shot from outside the box cannon back off the bar whilst Dan had a great chance right at the death with a shot which was straight at the keeper. A minute later, the referee finally brought the freezing cold proceedings to an end with Chingford claiming the win which moves them to the summit of Division 2.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin (Ben Stone, 80), James Cheaveau, Alex Diner, Mitchell Goodwin, Dave Birchnall, Nick Shawyer(c), Luke Paskell, Chris Amor, Adam Ferdinandi (Daniel Denton, 70), Edwin Jabbari.
Goals: Own Goal (20), Edwin Jabbari (50), Adam Ferdinandi (60).
26th September 2009 - League Match
Chingford Harriers 2-2 RYPSA
Chingford went into their first home game of the season with confidence but were well aware of the threat that RYPSA posed if their 20+ posse was anything to go by. The game started with the Harriers supplying the early pressure. After early chances for both Amor and Paul Shawyer and with the Harriers hitting the post, the opening goal deservedly came on 15 minutes. A lovely through ball from Nick was controlled well by Amor who beautifully lobbed the ball over the keeper to make it 1-0. However, this spurred RYPSA to get back into the game and a quickfire double rocked the Harriers. The first one came from a free kick. The ball was pumped deep into the Harriers box and the defence failed to pick up the RYPSA forward who headed in the equaliser. Just 2 minutes later with the free kick on the opposite side, RYPSA made it 2-1 with what can only be described as a Gomes horror moment for keeper Scott Prestedge (we'll leave out a description for Scott's sake!). For the remaining 20 minutes of the half Chingford tried to get back in the game but a combination of a decent RYPSA midfield and a flurry of frustrating decisions from the referee left the score at 2-1 to RYPSA at half-time.
With Dan being replaced by Adam, Harriers started the second half pretty much like the first. A period of 10 minutes saw Chingford with good possession and also tested the keeper with a low drive from Lefty from just outside the box. However, the game changed on 55 minutes when Luke had to be taken off with a horrible head injury which later required 5 stitches! From then on RYPSA started to take charge of the game and frustrated the Harriers despite not really having any clear cut chances on goal. The formation changed to a 3-5-2 with just 15 minutes to go as Chingford went in search of the equaliser. Edwin was replaced by Ben but still nothing came. Then, with just 2 minutes to go, the referee (true to form) awarded the Harriers a very dubious penalty which Nick slotted away confidently much to the protest of the RYPSA bench. Last gasp efforts saw Adam hit the crossbar from close range and Alex clear off the line after a fumble from Scott as the ref blew up for full-time leaving both teams with a point, probably a fair result taking everything into account.
Chingford Harriers: Scott Prestedge, James Gladwin, James Cheaveau, Mitchell Goodwin, Dave Birchnall, Daniel Denton (Adam Ferdinandi, 50), Nick Shawyer(c), Luke Paskell (Alex Diner, 55), Paul Shawyer, Chris Amor, Edwin Jabbari (Ben Stone, 75).
Goals: Chris Amor (15), Nick Shawyer (pen, 88).
19th September 2009 - League Match
Bethnal Green Celtic 0-4 Chingford Harriers
Chingford Harriers FC got their season of to a brilliant start. With the manager topping up his tan in Spain, captain Nick Shawyer was left to deal with a multitude of selection issues. Nevertheless, Harriers managed to turn up to Beckton with 12 players including James Korosec who was as fit as Ledley King.
After a decent start, including Nick hitting the bar, Chingford got their first league goal after 20 minutes courtesy of Edwin after some good work from Ben down the wing, cutting it across the box for Edwin to tap into the net. After the first goal Chingford took control of the game and the second goal came just 10 minutes after the first. A nicely delivered corner from Adam was met by an unmarked Luke who used his nose to make it 2-0. With the Harriers now playing free flowing football the chances kept coming and on the stroke of half-time the game was killed off. A through ball from Nick over the top found Edwin who miraculously found himself onside. After holding off the centre back, a cheeky lob over the keeper's head made it 3-0 and brought about half-time.
The second half saw Chingford carry on in the same dominant fashion as the first half. A couple of squandered chances later, the 4th and final goal came from a lovely Chingford move. Edwin passed to the right wing where Dan beat his marker and ran to by-line where he dragged the ball back into the box to an unmarked Nick who side footed home into the corner of the goal on the 60th minute. The last half hour saw the tempo drop considerably as the lack of fitness began to show. In the closing stages the game saw Dan resorting to Roberto Carlos shots from 35 yards (which in fairness did result in him hitting the bar) and Nick hitting the bar again, this time from a corner. James Korosec had his 5 minutes of glory when he came on for Adam who had cramp but the scoreline remained 4-0 to confirm a perfect start to the season.
Chingford Harriers FC: Scott Prestedge, James Wright, James Cheaveau, Luke Paskell, Dave Birchnall, Adam Ferdinandi (James Korosec, 85), Nick Shawyer(c), Paul Shawyer, Daniel Denton, Ben Stone, Edwin Jabbari.
Goals: Edwin Jabbari (20, 44), Luke Paskell (30), Nick Shawyer (60).