CLUB NOTES
 

4th May

In the short eight weeks Tony has taken over as caretaker boss he has successfully brought cohesion to the squad and in doing so has guided the club to safety in the Premier Division, he is just one of those characters players enjoy playing for. However in the excitement of reporting on 11 goals last week I neglected to mention the small fact that a new manager had been appointed in the shape of Richard Elms. Richard has steered Gas Rec to a title or two in recent years and though it’s a step up from the Border league, let’s hope he can bring those winning ways to the Royal Oak next season.

A depleted squad made its way over to title chasers Needham Market and in front of a vocal crowd finally relinquished a lead to two identical goals scored in the last 15 minutes. Two days later, and our fourth game in eight days, we played host to Wisbech and wasted no time in taking a 7th minute lead after a mix up in the Fenmen’s defence allowed Steve Townes to fire an unstoppable shot from 12 yards. Wisbech drew level with their first opportunity and it was soon to become clear lady luck was deserting us as Calver watched his penalty kick palmed away to safety and then shortly after the break Defeo’s curling shot slapped the inside of the upright. Like the Needham match we appeared to run out of steam and were punished late on when McManus scored the winner from an angled freekick, beating Wootten at the near post.

The reserves played their last match of the season with a trip to Wivenhoe’s Broad Lane,

(I look forward to doing the same with the first team next season) two school boy errors gifted Wivenhoe the lead. Cue Harris and Rose with their rallying cry and within two minutes of the restart, Warren had pulled one back, Eldridge got the equaliser and Peacock rose like salmon to net the winner from a Reece Harris cross. Undoubtedly it’s only a matter of time before some of these names will be featuring in the first team

 

27th April

I anticipated a close match at Swaffham last weekend with both teams hovering just above the relegation zone, but what do I know, Tony must have been feeding the players raw meat as the charged up team won 8-3. A variety of suggestions as to when we last scored 8 goals in a match has been banded about but Statto reliably informs me it was in 2004 in a cup game against Tiptree. Barrett, Griggs, Bloss, Page and Carmichael all got their names on the score-sheet for Saturday’s match but it was Defeo with his hat-trick who was presented with the ball after the match.

Defeo has been a revelation in the short period of time he has been at Harwich as he brings others into the game and this was no more evident than on Tuesday evening when still high on Saturday’s victory we faced Woodbridge at the Oak. Leading goal scorer, Scott Page, added to his seasons tally when he volleyed Matt Stace’s cross into the net via the underside of the bar. The Woodpeckers barely had time to take stock when their defence was breached again, Page pounced, this time onto Barrett’s threaded pass and was able to guide his shot past the advancing keeper.

A lively start to the second half saw the best of both shot stoppers, Wootten palming O’Neils sliding effort over the bar and at the other end Garnham had to be at full stretch to deny a left foot screamer from Defeo.  The match was put out of reach of the visitors in the 70th minute when Lee Barrett surged out of midfield skipping challenge after challenge, before he rounded Garnham and slotted home for what was a convincing victory.

Saturday’s result was tainted with the news from the reserve match at Sudbury that Captain, Ben Quade had badly broken his leg. Ben has needed a couple of operations and will be in hospital for some 10 days. I know all at the club wish him well and a speedy recovery.

20th April

It has been suggested that the ref must have been wearing a Man United watch for Tuesdays encounter against Wroxham. I missed the match but understand, thanks to ‘Grassroots’ from the forum, that we played out of our skins for 90 minutes and the 5 which were curiously added on, allowing last years champions to score with the last kick of the match. It’s a cruel game but I suspect we know how Kirkley felt the previous week as it was our turn to snatch all three points in the final minutes, for the second time this season against the Suffolk side, JC grabbing the winner with a curling shot to add to his goal tally.

Matches come thick and fast this time of year and our second match last week saw us travel to Histon to play, no not Histon Reserves but Histon as they fielded 8 first teamers from the Blue Square Conference and despite losing 2-0 we played well and welcomed the return of Steve Townes and also quicker than expected from injury, Liam Morely. Let’s hope that if they make the cut this season, we get to play them on a Saturday next year.

Congratulations to Tiptree for not only becoming Champions of Division 1 but moreover for the style in which they have emphatically done so. Thanks also for reducing our travel mileage next year, (all barring a monumental glitch in our final games) it allows a few more beer tokens for when we visit Chapel Road next season.

Finally, yes the secret is out, no not the name of a newly appointed manager but a team from TVs HollyOaks will be gracing the Royal Oak for a charity match against a Harwich XI on Saturday 10th May. Laura has been working hard to arrange the event and the tickets are now on sale which can be bought amongst other places from the club or direct from Laura on 07887905336, log on to hpfc.co.uk for more details.  

6th April 2008

We continue to be in the comfortable position of having destiny in our own hands but the uncomfortable situation of having to check the results of those beneath us in the hope that it stays that way. One of those teams, Newmarket visited the Royal Oak last Saturday and on a heavy pitch pressed their intentions to stay in the Premier division with a Mark Angel 7th minute penalty. Defeo and Page both spurned half chances, but the scores were levelled after a good spell of pressure; Holyoak deciding that the only way to stop Page scoring was to handle the ball, Holyoak was duly dismissed and stalwart Calver thumped the resultant penalty high into the net. Defeo went close to extending the lead just before the interval and at the same time proved that there is no distance you can’t shoot from, slapping the Newmarket upright from a full 40 yards.  Credit second half to ten man Newmarket as we struggled to play in to the wind, so they worked hard and on balance deserved the draw.

Tuesday we returned to Newmarket for what was dubbed ‘the re-match’ and we were tonked 4-0, an extraordinary contrast to our recent performances, but that sums up our season. The Northampton Shrimper witnessed the mauling after an apparent absence of 32 years watching the black & white of Harwich, I only hope what he saw doesn’t put him off for another 32.

Today we have a real toughie away to Kirkley, who will want to avenge that amazing comeback by us in this season’s earlier encounter and then on Tuesday, perhaps a pivotal match for survival away to Histon.   

30th March 2008

After the deluge of snow and rain over the weekend and the inevitable postponements that followed, spare a thought at this time of the season for the poor club secretary. Like so many, the Flying Scotsman has been working tirelessly juggling the remaining fixtures, an exercise that would stretch the mind of Stephen Hawkins, but he looks to have succeeded fitting ten fixtures in before the 3rd May, though if the poor weather continues keep an eye on the website for amendments. 

Today starts the double header versus Newmarket, at the Royal Oak and the return at theirs Tuesday evening and though propping up the league Newmarket shouldn’t be underestimated as like us have notched up a couple of recent wins.

I caught only one match before the weather set in, that involving the U18s Thursday night against Long Melford. Most amusing was the sight of the bespectacled ref, who I might add had a good game, constantly battle with the misting over of the ole Gregory Pecks in the driving rain, which might account for the 5 minute over run. It was the night that Phil Harrison’s young chargers were finally crowned league winners, after their fine 2-1 win. The opening goal came midway through the first half; Knight collected Harrison’s long throw and two slick passes later finished with Andy Hammet smashing the ball home. It wasn’t long before Melford were on level terms, Carl Daw finishing well from 12 yards. The winner for the home team came 15 minutes from time, Michael Hammond rising highest to meet Dan Harrisons cross and guide it past the keeper. The squad with only one loss all season now wait to see who they meet from the Western division in the semis.

Thursday night, 3 April there is a Women’s representative match between Essex and Suffolk at the Oak k.o 7.45pm.          

23rd March 2008

What good fortune, a visit to the in-laws, who live a stones throw from King’s Lynn, on the same weekend HPFC were at the impressive Walks Stadium playing King’s Lynn reserves. Whether trouble was expected from the travelling support or they were anticipating a larger than normal home gate I wasn’t sure but either way there were plenty of stewards on hand to witness the visiting team execute a thoroughly professional job.

Lynn are clearly a good footballing side as they enjoyed playing the ball about on the manicured turf, however they didn’t take their chances and went in after 45 minutes still on level terms. Second half we were far more effective, particularly from set pieces, Calver and Stace proving a handful for the Lynn backline. The breakthrough came on 60 minutes, Scott Page from the edge of the area, turned on a sixpence and thumped a peach of an effort low into the net, the keeper still rooted to the spot. Lynn upped the anti in the dying minutes, though were unable to breakdown a well organised Harwich defence, which gives us another 3 points in the bag. We hope to continue our good run of form this weekend when we visit bottom of the league Histon and then Easter Monday play host at the Royal Oak to Wisbech k.o 3.00pm.

Seventy plus fans watched the reserves bow out of the Chell Trophy, losing the semi-final to Ipswich Wanderers. Despite arguably playing the better football for 90 minutes (a debate which continues on the website forum) the match still lacked a goal. In extra-time Daryl Johnson looked to have won the tie, bundling the ball over the line from a Reece Harris corner, but Wanderers replied with a minute remaining to send the game to penalties, which they won 3-0, we wish them well in the final in a couple of weeks time against Wroxham.   

16th March 2008

Simply the best performance we’ve witnessed at the Royal Oak, dare I say it, since our 7-0 demolition of Clacton some 18 months ago. 4-0 the final score against Dereham but could have been so many more. The whole team played with belief and Gino Defeo on his debut made the difference upfront.

An early goal helped, Morley weaving his way to the dead-ball line and delivered an inch perfect cross into the path of J.C to finish. Two well taken goals from Scott Page in a five minute period took his tally for the season to 9 and I thought he had got his hat-trick on the stroke of half-time, though the goal was finally awarded to Defeo, his in-swinging corner nestled in the net without any help, a quite brilliant first-half display.
Midweek we travelled to fourth place Mildenhall, which proves not to be our luckiest ground to visit, Ben Quade last season received a fractured cheek bone at Recreation Way, Tuesday it was the turn of Liam Morley to visit the A&E at Bury Hospital for a nasty knee injury, we wish him well and a speedy recovery. Despite losing 2-0 B.V tells me we gave a good account of ourselves which bodes well as we are again on the road this weekend, this time to Kings Lynn and then Histon Easter weekend.  

All eyes Wednesday were set on the U18s fixture between Braintree and Melford, a win for Braintree would have left us in an unassailable position at the top of the league. However the match was drawn and mathematically Melford could still overhaul us. We can put pay to their title challenge and wrap up the league ourselves when we meet this coming Thursday 20th, I hope people get down to the Royal Oak and show their support for an U18s team that have had a fantastic season.

 

2nd March 2008

Lee Race is the most recent of Tony’s signings, a favourite at the Oak and though hasn’t played for the last six months, will add some much needed bite to the midfield. It wasn’t enough however, for Saturday’s match away to Lowestoft where we found ourselves three down at half-time, a much improved second half enabled Scott Page to net a consolation goal and give the team some confidence before next weeks game at home to Dereham.  

If Tony is looking for more familiar faces to grace the Oak, then one name popped up in a conversation with a couple of the old faithful, that of the lightning quick Merv ‘the swerve’ Henry, last heard on Suffolk radio, if he doesn’t fancy dusting off his boots, how about a managerial role?.  

You know how some students just do enough to pass exams, so the reserves on Saturday did just enough to win their match versus Wivenhoe. Eldridge, Hammet and Smith eased the team into a 3-0 lead in a dominant first half, but taking their foot of the gas allowed the visitors to score twice and set-up a nail biting finish, Sam Eldridge killed off their hopes, pouncing on a loose ball to settle the home team’s nerves minutes from the final whistle. 

The U18s continue to play with more snap than a stick of celery, notching up another win last week at Braintree, their 10th league win this season. Daryl Johnson and Phil Taylor edging the team into a lead before Ollie Mann sealed the victory with his 16th goal of this season.                                                          

23rd February 2008

Off the pitch events dominate at the Royal Oak this week with the news after Saturday’s match that Rob and Mark were standing down from their managerial roles. It comes as a bit of a surprise as although results this season haven’t been brilliant they are similar to those of last, it’s probably the performances on the pitch that have been the most disappointing, last year there was an optimism about the way we were playing and losses were by the odd goal, not so this year. We wish Rob and Mark well in their future endeavours and hope they don’t stay away from the football scene for too long.

Tony Armstrong has taken charge for the time being, a situation he is quite familiar with and he has already strengthened the team for the coming week’s match away to Lowestoft, signing Matt Stace from Sudbury.

Last Saturday’s match that prompted the resignations saw us face Essex rivals Stanway and to be fair the performance was one of our better ones. Mann and Good were introduced from the U18s set-up, Byrne and Barrett also featured in what turned out to be Rob’s last throw of the dice and it was working, chances went begging for us to take the lead before the rug was pulled from beneath and Stanway were awarded a penalty that Harrop converted. We pressed forward second half but were stung by two well taken goals to give Stanway the bragging rites for the season. However, contrary to the views of the local paper ‘Shrimpers are sinking’ I prefer to think that we have simply been ‘taking in a little water’.

The U18s finally resumed action last week after two months of postponements and continued with their winning ways, beating Wivenhoe 1-0, the head of Dom Warren in the first half the difference between the two sides. The reserves failed to take advantage to top their league losing 2-0 to Haverhill, no disgrace as I understand Haverhill fielded a few first teamers that night. Saturday, they travelled to the Hawthorns and fought out an entertaining 3-3 draw with Stanway which leaves them mid-table.      

 

17th February 2008

I had the headlines prepared for ten to five last Saturday when we took on the high flyers of Wroxham, ‘Shrimpers haul in the Yachtsmen’ read one ‘Yachtsmen caught in Shrimpers net’ read another, there’ve not been used for a while and they weren’t needed this time as Wroxham sent us packing, rifling seven into the net without reply. Not for the first time this season heads drop and it becomes more a question not whether we lose but by how many. Our saving grace was those teams beneath us in the league also failed to pick up points though not in such spectacular style. Rob has got his hands full this afternoon seeking to make amends as we face Stanway looking to avenge the 3-1 defeat they received on their last visit to the Oak at the start of the season in the Harwich Charity Cup final.

The reserves are on hand again for a good news story and proving the point that winning teams puts bums on seats, 50 odd hardy souls watched the second string unpick a reserve Braintree side that at the beginning of the afternoon were heading the table. With the introduction of 16 year old James King to the squad we made a solid start to the match without breaching the visitors defence, perhaps a bit rusty after the recent postponements. However a shuffle round second half enabled Sam Eldridge to revert to his normal attacking position and it proved dividends. Ollie Mann and Luke Good supplying the killer pass to allow the tenacious youngster to ratchet up his hat-trick in the sides 3-0 win. Today the reserves face Stanway where a win, dependant on Thursday’s match versus Haverhill, could see them head the table with games in hand.         

 

10th February 2008

The Pedlars of Swaffham were visitors to the Royal Oak Saturday, what a big side, there were one or two that would not have looked out of place on a rugby pitch. It was always going to be a close fought match, fifth and sixth from bottom and only a point separating their endeavours so far this season. Peering down at my notebook after 30 minutes revealed little more than a couple of doodles but it didn’t stay that way much longer as Ashley St John rounded Wootten to open the score, igniting the Harwich offensive it took only a matter of minutes before we were on level terms, the goal machine Carmichael on hand to take full advantage of a missed clearance to send a fierce shot past the outstretched keeper.   

We were the more creative side second half, but it was the visitors that regained the lead Doherty unpicking our defence and firing from 18 yards low into the net. Ed to his credit kept us in touch with the Norfolk side with an amazing series of saves during a skirmish in the area, the last of which sent the ball inches over the bar. We were finally rewarded for our persistence in chasing the game 10 minutes from time, Scott Page beating Norris from close range. Final minutes were fast and furious as both teams laid claim to all 3 points, but it remained honours even and from Robbie’s point of view 2 points dropped.      

The reserves had their match at Wivenhoe postponed as the pitch is still in a poor state and I’ve given up predicting when the youths will next play as most of the team now play for Essex, that’s the price of success. Finally a congratulatory note for Martin Calver presented with an award on Saturday for 300 matches played for the Shrimpers

3rd February 2008

Following a fortnight of postponements the report I received for last Saturday’s match away to the Fenmen of Wisbech was short and sweet ‘not a good day at the office’. Robbie would particularly have wanted some reward from this match as we need to pick up points from those around us in the table. The only silver lining in the 3-1 score-line was Matt Carmichael reaching the milestone of 100 goals for the club, no mean achievement in little more than 200 appearances.

I skipped that local derby and opted for the Oak where the reserves took on Felixstowe & Walton in the Chell trophy QF. The normal manicured turf had given way to a heavy pitch after the recent rain and consequently it was never going to be a good passing game. It was only the mongoose reactions of Sam Eldridge, stabbing the ball into the net that separated the teams at half-time. Felixstowe forced a late equaliser after an uncharacteristic mix up in the Harwich defence but Dom Warren ensured passage into the semi-finals dispatching the winner minutes from the final whistle.

Next week, Wednesday 6th Sam Eldridge, Luke Good, Reece Harris, Elliott Harrison and Lee Peacock have been selected for the Essex U18s squad to face Cambridgeshire, a fantastic achievement for the club, well done lads. The following evening they return to the Oak for an U18s league match against Brantham, when they will be looking to avenge the only defeat there’ve suffered all season.       

13th January 2008

The last seven days of football have seen changing fortunes for the first team; last Wednesday we faced Felixstowe at the Oak on a night to rival a Siberian winter. The starting line-up included young Sam Eldridge supporting the adage ‘if you’re good enough to play, you’re old enough’ and he is, as the Essex U18s front man used his pace and enthusiasm to terrorise the Felixstowe defence and it came as no surprise when he netted in the 14th minute to give us an early lead. Ollie Mann was also included in the squad and looks quite at home at this level; it was his flick to the back-post with a couple of minutes remaining that found Carmichael unmarked in the box to earn a point in a thoroughly enjoyable 3-3 draw. 

Saturday, the team were on the road to Walsham-le-Willows, Robbie was forced to make changes with Hughes, Carmichael, and Matson all injured and Eldridge unavailable. It turned out to be a disappointing first trip to the Willows, Page bagging a couple but the team eventually losing 4-2.

Tuesday and the venue was Notcutts, home to Woodbridge and Carmichael took another step closer to his 100th goal for the club, securing a 3-2 win in the process. Matt now on 99 goals in just over 200 appearances will have the opportunity of hitting the ton this afternoon when the shrimpers take on the yachtsman at the Oak. We ran them close last season losing by a single goal in both fixtures; let’s hope the tide turns in our favour today.

The reserves have been drawn against Felixstowe in the Chell Trophy QF following their 2-1 victory on Saturday versus Halstead. Two second half goals from Daryl Johnson and Dom Warren secured the win, the QF tie to be played at the Oak on January 26th.

Finally congratulations to Lee Peacock, Elliot Harrison, Sam Eldridge and Luke Good for yet another call-up to the Essex U18’s squad this time to face county rivals, Suffolk.

6th January 2008

Twenty one games played, twenty one games to go, we’re now halfway through the season, and in the familiar position of hovering above the relegation zone. Not that it should be a worry; same again second half of the season will ensure Premier division football for another year. Saturday’s game against CRC did little to help our cause though; it should have been winnable as we had only recently beaten them at the Abbey Stadium a few weeks ago. But to their credit they showed endeavour and enthusiasm for this match and not for the first time this season we didn’t get our game going until the second-half, already they were two goals to the good. The towering figure of Hughes reduced the deficit, losing the attentions of his marker to send a thunderbolt of a header past the keeper. Calver and Luke Jones had golden opportunities to bring the scores level but with only a minute or two remaining, in our pursuit for the equaliser, left ourselves exposed at the back allowing Bowe to flatter the score-line.

The reserves on the other hand are galloping up their league, now in third position after a 5-0 victory at Halstead and it was more like a home game as a good crowd travelled to Rosemary lane for the fixture. After a tentative start Eldridge opened the scoring, latching onto Harris’s perfectly weighted through ball; Ollie Mann doubled the lead shortly before the break. Sam added a third from Phil Taylor’s corner and not to be out done Ollie got his second striking home of a tight angle, Luke Randall adding number five for a good afternoons work.

After a break of nearly two months, due to an assortment of postponements, the U18’s are back into action Wednesday away to Wivenhoe. Keeping their unbeaten record going will be no mean feat but what I’ve seen of them they certainly have the ability.

30th December 2007

We started the week with the transfer news that Underwood has moved onto Wivenhoe for an undisclosed fee on a two and a half year deal, a conclusion that satisfies all concerned.

On the pitch, accompanying me to the reserves match versus Witham on Saturday was my dad, a man not noted for his knowledge of football, but nevertheless likes to be entertained, and that we were, to a game that had everything, incident, goals and controversy. Sam Eldridge clinically dispatched two early penalties, the second I have to say, the ref awarded from the halfway line, a position he occupied for much of the game, much to the disgust of one Witham fan. Harwich added a third from the head of Ollie Mann and a fourth by the tenacious Luke Good, out pacing the Witham defence. Steve Carrington was dismissed midway through the second half, again for something seen only by the ref, which left Harwich hanging on to their lead, Witham scoring three late goals. It really was better than panto.

The first team meanwhile travelled to fourth place Dereham and it was JC scoring either side of the break that brought us parity having fallen two behind in the first fifteen minutes. Dereham edged in front again only to be pegged back by a super strike by skipper Matson, volleying the ball from a full 25yds to give us our first score draw of the season. After the match BV remarked ‘the attitude amongst the players is one of never giving up and it showed in today’s match’

We didn’t stop battling in the Boxing Day fixture either against Stanway but after an even first-half, Stanway exerted themselves on the match and three well taken second half goals gave them the three points and deservedly so. Matters return to the Oak today with a match against CRC and then a night match Wednesday, again at home when we hope to avenge the earlier seasons 7-1 mauling by Felixstowe. 

 

23rd December 2007

The reserves should have been back into action after a couple of week’s rest, so I was surprised to see the players return from Saturday’s fixture with Tiptree during half-time, apparently the ref  hadn’t turned up. Not to worry though, they were able to swell the numbers and watch the first team take yet another step, away from the relegation zone, against a Leiston team Statto tells me we have not won against in the last eight attempts.

Carmichael looked sharp up front and on 10 minutes successfully lobbed the keeper only to have his goal bound effort cleared off the line. Credit to Leiston they brought the game to the hosts, Rowe hitting the bar and Cunningham crashing the ball against the upright, otherwise we looked comfortable at the back, Calver, Hughes and Murray dealing with all that the visitors could muster. As against Kirkley we upped the anti in the latter stages, Carmichael used his pace to cut the ball back for Page to unleash a venomous shot that narrowly cleared the bar and it was with only two minutes remaining that Morley’s pinpoint corner-kick fell to Carmichael, with his back to goal neatly tucked the ball into the corner of the net. Leiston threw what they could into the remainder of time, a finger tipped save onto the bar from Wootten ensured us of all three points and eased worries going into the Christmas period. 

We have a fixture away to Dereham today and on Boxing Day the Essex derby away to Stanway kick off is 11.00am, what better reason to leave the house before you start eating and drinking again. Have a great Christmas.

9th December 2007

Saturday saw us entertain title chasing Soham Town and it wasn’t to long before we got to understand why they are second in the league, all looked comfortable on the ball neat passing and clinical in-front of goal. 6-0 was probably a flattering score-line for Soham as we had our fair share of possession but just lacked that final pass to open them up.

Tuesday we faced Haverhill, again at the Oak and frankly I thought we looked the better team. Time on the ball was a premium for both sets of players in a tight fought match that saw neither keeper unduly troubled, the best of the chances falling to skipper Matson, skimming the roof of the Haverhill net from 20 yards and Brannon’s shot cum cross that fell over the keeper and a whisker wide of the upright. It was good also to see Bloss get more involved up-front, his close range effort charged down early in the second half. We looked to have nicked a deserved late goal, the bar denying Page’s 80th minute header and then in the cruellest of blows, Hughes under pressure headed past Ed for Haverhill’s last minute winner. Despite the disappointment the performance with the new formation was spot on and I’m sure will reap reward.

It can’t have escaped the fans notice that we seem to be missing a striker. Lee is currently in dispute with the club, wishing to play his football elsewhere. Woo is a proven goal scorer at this level and I can understand why the club would like him to honour his F.A contract. I can only hope this situation can be resolved quickly to the satisfaction of both parties.

The reserves were involved in a 3-2 thriller against local rivals Clacton, Sean Smith’s drive shot brought us level at one a piece before midway through the second-half when Clacton edged in front again. The youngsters turned the match around with ten minutes remaining, Luke Good scoring from 25 yards and the head of Daryl Johnson stealing all three points. 

2nd December 2007

Exciting times lay ahead for the Shrimpers, the club last week announcing their intention to move ground. Tendring District Council’s decision to sell the car park for housing left the club with little alternative but to consider their position at the Royal Oak. I understand the club were offered first refusal to purchase the car park for around a million pounds, but a subsequent whip round from the committee left them just short by £999,950. Leaving the Oak will be a sad day but offering improved facilities at a new ground will secure a healthy future for the Shrimpers.

Exciting times on the pitch as well at the moment, the first team brimming with confidence are galloping up the league with four wins from five matches. Saturday saw them travel to the Abbey Stadium to face CRC, Robbie dropped himself to the bench to make way for the return of Kevin Hughes, on loan from Sudbury. Within ten minutes we had raced into a two goal lead TC and Scott Page getting their names on the score sheet but CRC pegged us back before the interval. Second half saw us regain the upper hand, Matt Carmichael with an over head kick that whistled into the net out of reach of the keeper and Page made it four late on to round off a good afternoons work.

We now have four home fixtures leading up to Christmas, (which means my shopping again will be done Christmas eve), the first this afternoon, when we look to avenge this seasons earlier 4-0 defeat against second place Soham.
The reserves welcomed the inclusion of Michael Murray last weekend at home to Tiptree and took a deserved lead midway through the first half, Paul McDonough touching the ball on for Dom Warren to score a wonder goal. But in a faltering five minute period in the second half we conceded the lead with two well taken strikes from Tiptree leaving us to rue earlier chances.

25th November 2007

No action for the reserves or the youths last week meant all attentions turned to the first team home match versus Kirkley & Pakefield. With only two losses all season Kirkley proved to be tough opposition, it would be fair to say they were the better team for 80 minutes. Harwich defended manfully and when Stone broke the deadlock for Kirkley midway through the first-half the signs looked ominous. It was the very best efforts of Wootten that kept us in touch, hurling himself acrobatically about his area fending off the attentions of Blythe and Stone.

The introduction of Byrne allowing Brannon to push up and Carmichael changed the shape of the game and when in the 85th minute TC placed his shot through a ruck of players that deflected off Calver and crept past the keeper, the impossible all of a sudden seemed possible. Harwich with renewed vigour poured forward from the restart sensing time for a winner and it duly arrived, Underwood upended ‘en route’ to goal, Calver made no mistake and cannoned the spot-kick home.

It’s been a while since the faithful have been treated to such an exciting comeback at the Oak. This win makes it three wins from four league matches and today we look to continue this rich vein of form away at CWC.         

18th November 2007

For the handful of us that made the trip to Hamlet Croft last weekend there could be little complaint about the result or the margin of defeat at the hands of an in form Haverhill side. The swirling wind made for less than ideal football conditions; nevertheless Haverhill adapted to it well and was able to improve their goal difference slicing our defence open four separate times. That said we were not without chances and clawed back a late goal, a Tony Chatters low cross along the face of the goal that dissected the retreating defence and the keeper, allowing Scott Page to tap in at the back post.

The cut and thrust of the paint world required my attention Tuesday, so thanks to Ben for giving an account of the Harwich Charity Cup night match versus local rivals FC Clacton. A match that saw the introduction of Taylor, Kioussis and Luke Good into the team but it was two goals from Matt Waters without reply that sees Clacton through to the next round, good luck to them. Attentions turn to the league this afternoon at the Oak with another toughie against Kirkley & Pakefield, a team to rival those at the top of the division with only two losses all season. 

 The Reserves returned to winning ways thrashing Long Melford 3-0, Reece Harris and Ugg scoring first half and Luke Good completing the rout in the second period after a mercurial Ricky Villa like run (the old ones will know what I’m talking about).

The Youths just seem to get better and played some of their best football of the season beating Felixstowe last Thursday 3-2. The head of Daryl Johnson broke the deadlock early on to settle the nerves, Hammond and Ollie Mann also contributing to the score. Two late goals from Felixstowe revived the home teams’ hopes; the refs’ final whistle saved us blemishing what is a fantastic start to the season.     

11th November 2007

Due to being away for a few days, I’ve had to write the club notes early this week and what a great seven days of football it has been, three points from Histon Reserves and on Saturday three points from the match versus Norwich. Earlier in the season Norwich turned us over at Plantation Park and they looked to be getting the better of us in the opening fifteen minutes Saturday. But it wasn’t long before we got into our stride, Lee Underwood getting on the end of a speculative J.C clearance and with the keeper off his line made no mistake in making the score 1-0. Harwich waited until early in the second half to extend their lead J.C cutting in from the left and curled a wonderful shot to the bottom corner of the net leaving the keeper rooted to the spot, so good, I was left holding the camera and forgot to take the picture. It was good to see Matt Carmichael make his return to the first team, for the last ten minutes of the match. Matt has been playing for the reserves after a long lay off through injury but looks ready to make his comeback.

Today we have the opportunity of making it three on the bounce playing away to Haverhill, we haven’t done that for some time but the way we are playing at moment anything is possible.
The Reserves match last week versus Debenham was postponed, but the Youths were in action last Thursday against local rivals FC Clacton and returned to winning ways with a 4-2 win, Ollie Mann and Phil Taylor each getting one and the goal machine Dom Warren scoring a couple.

Congratulations to U18s keeper, Elliot Harrison, who got a the call-up to the Essex camp to play Huntingfordshire playing along side fellow Harwich county players, Sam Eldridge, Lee Peacock and Reece Harris, with the Harwich contingent playing at county level it would great to see a county home match at the Oak.

 

4th November 2007

The pre-match amble around the Oak was one of nervousness last week, languishing at the foot of the League Harwich considered this to be a ‘must win’ match versus Histon Reserves. Keiron Johnson accepting an approach from Wivenhoe meant the ever versatile Calver was brought back in to defence along side Matson (I don’t think Calver has played in goal yet this season).

Opening minutes showed promise and in the 13th minute Harwich took the lead; Morley striking a thunderous 25 yard shot that zipped through a gaggle of players and gave the outstretched Lance Key, in the Histon goal, little chance. We seemed to contain the young Histon side with relative ease until our back four stopped, shortly before half-time and Sam Murphy snuck in at the back post to rifle home the equaliser. The players looked as stunned as the watching faithful, so much possession and still honours even.

Robbie must have given the players a few words of wisdom and before my coffee had cooled the Harwich XI returned. Until the 70th minute we looked set for another frustrating Saturday when JC scampered along the 18 yard box and cannoned a shot Key could only parry into the line of the predatory Underwood, dispatching his effort clinically into the net. At last a result our recent performances have been crying out for. 
With the financial constraints put on Robbie, he seems to have unearthed another gem in Scott Page, tenacious in front of goal and a good partner upfront for Underwood. This week we have another home fixture versus Norwich, a team also struggling for results but beat us earlier in the season.
The Reserves bowed out of The Harwich Charity Cup last Thursday against Border League side Gt. Bentley, Luke Good getting the Harwich equaliser to take the match into penalties, Bentley winning 4-2, we wish them well in the next round.

 

28 October 2007

Goal drought, what goal drought? There may have been some concern after Saturdays 4-0 loss against 3rd place Soham, that perhaps we have trouble scoring goals. But come Tuesday we showed that it wasn’t such a problem, netting three against Felixstowe & Walton in the Ridgeons cup, new boy Scott Page bagging a couple and Underwood putting his name back on the score-sheet. All we have to ensure now is that we don’t let as many in at the other end, something that didn’t happen Tuesday eventually conceding four after the match went in to extra-time. That said Calver and Matson both played impressively in the centre of defence which bodes well when we look to make amends this afternoon against Histon Reserves at the Oak, a match we really must win if we are to move away from the bottom of the league.

It was an unusual lacklustre display from the Youth team suffering their first defeat of the season last week 2-1 in the Ridgeons cup to a well organised Brantham side. They were able to make amends meeting Brantham again Tuesday in a league match putting in a much better performance. The Essex trio returned from county duties and Luke Randall made his debut at left back. Going into the second-half with one a piece, Harwich laid siege to the Brantham half for long periods but just couldn’t unlock their defence and the score remained 1-1.

The Reserves too failed to win last weekend beaten 2-0 to Debenham in what proved to be a niggling match. At a time when refs come in for some stick, this ref is to be commended for his handling of the 90 minutes which if allowed could have easily boiled over.      

21 October 2007

Close, but no cigar. Yet again it was spirited performance by us, but the persistence and class of Mildenhall secured them all three points last weekend. A changed side started the match, new signing Scott Page partnered Underwood upfront and Ugg came into midfield for the injured Morley. Chances were few in the first-half and the score remained 0-0. In contrast second period was far more open, Mildenhall on all out attack, Harwich countering with the pace of Underwood and it was his cut back for Calver that should have given us the advantage, the ball finally coming to rest at the doors of Co-op. The play immediately swung to our penalty area Clements going down under the challenge of Johnson but Simpson was unable to convert the spot-kick, blasting his shot high over the bar. Mildenhall finally made their pressure pay in the 72nd minute, Clements latching on to a curling free-kick beating Wooten at the far post. Previously we would have capitulated at this point but to the players it was clear there was still something in this match, and despite us dominating the last 10 minutes Mildenhall left relieved winners.

Meanwhile the reserves travelled over to Braintree and on their arrival wondered whether their match had started without them, thirty players and three keepers warming up. Braintree had decided to play a near full 1st team in order to kick start their season, the match at first didn’t follow script with Sam Eldridge giving us an early lead from the spot. Braintree however muscled there way into the lead by half-time and another two in the second period, it could have been more had it not been for the efforts of a very busy Ben Quade.  Paul Harris congratulated his team after the match, the mixture of young and senior players gave Braintree 1st team a real game and it will give the youngsters in particular the knowledge of what standard needs to be achieved to play at that level.

Finally congratulations and good luck to Harwich players Lee Peacock, Sam Eldridge and Reece Harris who have all been selected for the Essex Under 18 squad to
face Norfolk at Fakenham FC next Thursday 18th October in the East Anglian
Counties Championship.

7th October 2007

I have to confess to giving myself the day off last weekend and travelled to Capel to watch a couple of Old friends play, what turned out to be a 1-0 win against local rivals East Bergholt. My thanks to the Ploughman for his hospitality and for averting a crisis of the disappearing toilet roll.
Meanwhile our first team travelled a little further up the A12 to Leiston and as last season returned empty handed, despite having much of the possession we were only able to convert a couple of the chances through Jimmy Chatters and  Underwood. Leiston were a little more clinical in front of goal scoring five.
Robbie has been critical of the way the team ‘stop playing’ when going a goal up and that this shouldn’t happen against a resurgent Ipswich Wanderers on Tuesday night. We needn’t have worried, after a slow first-half the newly found goal machine Calver, calmed the nerves with a 57th minute strike that had the Wanderers net billowing. Two further goals from captain Matson and Townes lift us off the bottom of the league and give us this season’s first and hopefully not last double.
The reserves score for fun at the moment, six last weekend versus Stowmarket, the goal maestro, Sam Eldridge, netting a brace,  the bizarrely named Ugpuss Palmer getting a couple and experienced hand Matty Carmichael getting two. With such a rich vein of form it’s unfortunate the reserves are without a match this weekend.
As many of the U18s play in the reserves it will come as no surprise that they too are improving their goal difference at the moment putting five past Felixstowe last Thursday. Phil Taylor deserves a mention for his dominance in the middle of the park that gave those a platform upfront namely Ollie Mann, the hat-trick hero, Warren and Hammond also adding their names to the score-sheet in a 5-0 rout.


30th September 2007

‘Consistency’ is what Robbie asked from the team following our 1-1 draw with St Margaretsbury last week in the Vase. As is often the way, we got ourselves ahead with  an early Townes goal but a hatful of wasted chances let the St’s back in with a late equaliser. So it was back to the Oak on Tuesday for the replay, we played well enough first-half and went ahead in the 9th minute, Morley getting his head onto May’s inviting free-kick which slid under Smithers in the St’s goal. However it wasn’t long before parity was restored Herrod poking the ball into an empty Harwich net in the 35th minute. One more goal a piece for Calver and Herrod in extra-time meant the lottery of dreaded penalties ensued and it wasn’t to be, losing 4-3. Though in the absence of Jimmy Chatters and Underwood it was good to see Andy Hammet and Luke Good from the youth set-up get a run-out.
So put out of the FA Cup and Vase in the last ten days means the first team can turn their attentions to League form and getting some points on the board, starting today, away at Leiston.
The Reserves and Youth teams seem to go from strength to strength, both unbeaten this season. I wandered down to the Reserve match Saturday versus Haverhill, there were a few names missing Lee Peacock was with the First team, Ugg Palmer, John Byrne and Reece Harris had niggling knocks plus there were a couple of suspensions. Harwich struggled first-half getting to grips with Haverhill’s five man midfield and went in at the interval 1-1. But changes second-half, Palmer, Harris and Byrne thrown in and it was normal control resumed and with late goals from Ugg and Carmichael gave Harwich a well deserved 3-2 victory.
 The U18s travelled to Long Melford Thursday supported by the Chairman and committee, wanting to see no doubt how good these youngsters really are. Chances in the first-half were at a premium as the midfields cancelled out each other. But with a little manoeuvring by Harrison second-half, soon paid dividends, Ollie Mann scoring both goals in the 2-0 win. ‘Awesome’ was how the performance of Harwich keeper Elliot Harrison was described along with the back four of Dan Harrison, Lee Peacock, Daryl Johnson and James King.     

23rd September 2007

A three hour journey on a Monday night to play an FA Cup tie is probably not the best preparation for a match, but that is what the Harwich players endured last week following their 0-0 draw at the Royal Oak against Woodford United.
Saturday’s match was a tight ole affair, neither team first half really committed themselves upfront. Woodford started causing more problems second half, Goodhall and Lamb both unlucky not to open the scoring. For the large part we seemed short of ideas on how to break down a very physical team. Cue 80 minutes, in true Cup tradition the game sprung into life, urged on by the Harwich faithful we started to push forward in numbers, Chatters jinxing run and shot flashing just wide of the post, Calver then unable to connect with a Townes cross with the goal beckoning. The replay Monday ended the dream for another year, 3-1 the final score. I can only imagine that it was a longer journey home. All is not lost however, in cup competition, as this afternoon the first team travel to St Margaretsbury in the second round of the FA Vase.
Reserve manager Paul Harris joined up with his team for the first time, after his summer break and watched the mixture of youth and experienced players win 3-2 against Stowmarket, Eldridge, Carmichael and the fit again Jimmy Helyard the scorers.
U18s supremo, Phil Harrison was full of praise for all 14 of his squad that beat Haverhill 5-2, their winning run continues with maximum points from 3 games and now head the league.

16th September 2007

Roving reporter, BV, travelled with the 1st team on Saturday for their FA Vase match versus Haringey Borough and as it turned out it was a trip well worth making. Bloss and Morley took complete control of the midfield, the latter setting up Matson in the 39th minute to slot Harwich into the lead, Chatters making it 2-0 on the stroke of half-time after a good exchange with Calver. Haringey, against the run of play pulled one back but were finished off by a last minute strike from Calver to put us safely into the next round, away to St Margaretsbury, next Saturday.
Out on the town Saturday I decided to visit the Royal Oak. Various people I’ve spoken with have commented on how good the Reserves and U18s players are performing and the Reserves in this case didn’t disappoint against a tidy Braintree reserve team. Michael Hammond and Sam Eldridge were the scorers in the 3-3 match that ensued but they played well as a team and I’m sure there will be a few names knocking on Robbie’s door before the end of the season.
All things being equal we turn our attentions to the League Tuesday night with the arrival of newly promoted Haverhill and with a little luck turn our fortunes in cup competitions to that in the league. Talking of luck the club pools competition worth £625 was almost won last weekend by Robbie May Senior, after correctly predicting the results of seven other international matches he needed only Portugal to beat Poland, Poland equalised in the 88th minute, football is a funny ole game!!


9th September 2007

A couple of hundred of the Harwich faithful applauded the efforts of the team at the end of a match that saw Harwich dismantle the Ryman League North outfit Ilford FC. Robbie re-jigged the team for Saturdays FA Cup tie after that mauling by Felixtowe midweek, Calver pushed upfront alongside Underwood and new signing Tony Chatters, brother of Jimmy, brought in to bolster the midfield. It took only a couple of minutes before the formation reaped reward, Underwood’s perfectly weighted chip found Calver at the back post to head into an empty net.
Ilford have struggled for goals so far this season and it took until the second half before they really started to threaten. In chasing the equaliser they found themselves exposed at the back and this was exploited by the pace of Jimmy C with 15 minutes remaining    chasing down a Robbie May clearance, and following a 20 yard run towards goal, slotted the ball calmly under the advancing keeper. Woodford United, from Division 1 Midlands, are now our opponents in the next round at the Royal Oak next week and in the event there is a replay, it will be at their place on the Monday.
It was a clean sweep of wins last week for our teams. The reserves won 2-1 at Haverhill after going a goal down. But following a right ole rollicking at half-time, parity was restored shortly after the break by Sam Eldridge and then the 16 year old won the game for Harwich with a well taken penalty.
The U18s travelled to Long Melford and after a nervous ten minutes took the lead with a clinical finish from Harris. Harwich went on to create five or six goal scoring opportunities, hitting the woodwork twice as they dominated the remainder of the half.
As the second half began it looked as if Harwich would rue their missed opportunities as the home side bombarded the Harwich defence with a series of long balls. However, the rearguard withstood the pressure, helped by keeper Harrison, who made a point blank reflex save in the dying minutes, to secure all three points.

 

2nd September 2007

Don’t panic!!, it’s usual for us to ‘cock-up’ once a season, Soham 9-1 thumping a couple of years ago, Ipswich Wanderers caned us last year 8-1 and Tuesday evening we tripped up at Felixtowe on the end of a 7-1 mauling. I’m not sure what’s happened to our pre-season form but we have definitely missed the injured and absent players the last couple of weeks.
This defeat was not such a surprise coming on the back of a miserable Saturday game, home to Walsham-le-Willows. Played on a well overdue summer’s afternoon, both sides struggled to cut out any clear chances in the first half.
However direct from the re-start Musgrove outpaced the Harwich defence and perfect cross was met by Alan Ross, netting with his chest. Walsham defended manfully for long periods as we pursued the equaliser, even the attacking subs of Townes, Morley and Meadows could do little to break down their resolute defence. The real sucker punch for us came with 3 minutes remaining, Newman found himself unmarked in the Harwich box and was able to pick his spot past Wooton. Today we face Ilford in the F.A.Cup, a welcome distraction from the league.

The reserves last week travelled to Witham, last years runners up and cup winners, with a welcome addition to the squad, Michael Murray. Witham took the lead after fine defending by Michael Murray which left him on the floor injured, Witham continued to press towards goal and a long range effort giving Scott Wass in the Harwich goal no chance. Harwich replied through Ash Brundles 32nd minute header following a Reece Harris corner. Changes were made at half time and with the addition of Phil Taylor in the midfield alongside Captain Sean Smith dominated the remainder of the match but with no further score. The commitment shown by the Harwich team with 7 players aged 17 and under will hold them in good stead for the forthcoming season.

 

26th August 2007

With the Reserves and the U18s yet to start their campaign and the first team away to Norwich United, the Royal Oak was unusually quiet last Saturday afternoon.
The trip to Plantation Park was not a fruitful one for Robbie, forced to make changes for the match, Brannon, Morley and Underwood all unavailable. Proceedings started well enough, Nash hauled down in the area after 15 minutes, Calver stepped up to dispatch the penalty. But a lack of concentration at the back resulted in two soft goals being conceded early in the second half and try as we might that’s the way the score remained. Let’s hope we can learn from those defensive indiscretions in time for this afternoons match versus Walsham le Willows, a team I think I’m right in saying, we have never played before in a competitive match.
Monday night the Royal Oak lights were switched on for an U18s friendly v Col Villa, Harwich winning 4-0. Youth supremo Phil Harrison, used the whole squad of 19 players for the game, leaving himself with a pleasant selection headache for the first league game away to Long Melford next Wednesday. We wait to see how three of the U18s, Sam Eldridge, Luke Good and Reece Harris faired at the Essex U18 trials recently; selection for the 16 man squad will be announced early September for an away match to Somerset.
The Reserves also get going this weekend, newly appointed manager Paul Harris taking the squad to face Witham Reserves.    

 

 

 19th August 2007

New Commercial Managers, BV and Laura have surpassed themselves getting in new sponsorship for the club, Zeta UK now shirt sponsor for the reserves but my favourite has to be Joi Tandoori, main club sponsor, no longer oranges at half-time, I fear the players may be taking on more water than normal second half. Robbie too has been busy, since Mick stood down as manager, recruiting players for the new season. Some familiar names have returned to the Royal Oak in the shape of Martin Calver, Steve Townes, Richie Meadows and Matt Carmichael, who looks close to being back to full fitness following a long spell of injury. New faces to the squad include shot stopper Ed Wooton from Tiptree, centre-half Keiron Johnson and strikers Luke Jones and Lee Nash.
Pre-season for the first team could not have gone better 5 games, 5 wins but we were brought down to earth last Saturday by a Needham Market team that are looking to be one of the top three come the end of the season. Luke Jones opened the scoring with a sizzler having just coming on for the injured Chatters, but Needham soon restored parity through Craig Parker. Needham dominated the second half, and Matt Buckle sealed their victory with a well taken goal in the 62nd minute.
Tuesday night Ipswich Wanderers were our opponents and in monsoon conditions Harwich caught the young Wanderers team napping with a precision delivery from new signing Steve Townes that found an unmarked Luke Jones at the back-post to nod in. Harwich pressure was unrelenting, Bloss was first to test Vandecar in the Ipswich goal with a drive from outside the box, Meadows rattled the post and Underwood had the keeper full stretch on the slippery surface to palm his effort away.
Despite the possession it took until early in the second half to add to the score-sheet, Underwood netting after a fierce Meadows shot Vandecar couldn’t clear. Two further goals in as many minutes from Calver made the first three points of the season safe for Harwich.