Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Maili Nugent, Harvey Dunsdon, Calum Sykes, Jack Cooper, Samuel Barham, Tom Cooper.
Ricky Mullins (sub), Samuel Kent (sub), Michael Bevan (sub), George Broom (sub).

There was a distinct atmosphere of anticipation as well as some degree of anxiety as supporters gathered for the final game of Harwell & Hendred's very successful season. H&H needed to win to secure the championship which they so richly deserved.

Tom's strength on the ball was clearly evident early on. Tom and Jack were combining well together in the early stages of the game, and Jack's positive approach saw him produce a good first-time effort which just went past the post. Tom's long throw-ins were giving immediate problems to the home defence, who were beginning to come under continuous pressure. A free kick taken by Calum was cleared off the line. Tom, Calum, Jack and Samuel were constantly involved as H&H went forward. They were ably supported particularly by Harvey, who was quick to gain possession in midfield as well as to clear any danger when it threatened the away defence.
Berinsfield managed to advance into the away half on several occasions, but could not produce an effective effort to test Nick in the H&H goal. The visitors' defence, with the consistently resolute Maili, was always in control. Calum and Tom were working hard up front, but the Berinsfield defence were giving neither player very little space, surrounding Tom in one incident as he tried to make room to get his shot away.
The incessant pressure was eventually rewarded when a through ball from Tom found Calum, who made no mistake to put H&H ahead and relieve the obvious anxiety that was developing amongst the away supporters.
Clearly encouraged by this goal, H&H were determined to maintain their dominance. A free kick awarded for a foul on Calum was taken by Samuel, but cleared. Jack produced another powerful shot which the home keeper could not hold and Tom, rushing in, just failed to find the net. H&H were in complete control and it was no surprise when they scored a second, the ball breaking to the lively Calum, who took his chance with a superb effort. The level of anxiety within the away supporters now tended to diminish a little more, as Calum took his second goal to put Harwell & Hendred two up. The home defence were having some difficulty in dealing with Calum's skill on the ball. He found Jack with a fine pass, but the home defence were able to restrict Jack's opportunity to shoot. Berinsfield were looking to reduce the arrears and were beginning to go forward with more purpose. One attempt just went wide and then Nick made a brave save at the feet of the advancing forward to protect the visitors' lead. Nick was slightly hurt in the clash but resumed after a short while. Despite being two goals down, Berinsfield were trying hard to compete and forced another effort but only straight at Nick who saved comfortably.
Samuel's endeavours in assisting his defenders to break up and clear when Berinsfield threatened was typical of the commitment of the whole team as they went in search of victory and league honours.
Calum again showing his quality placed a great ball through to Tom. Tom delivered a powerful strike which the home keeper did extremely well to keep out. Samuel just shot wide after being put through by the outstanding Calum. Jack, battling away in midfield, won possession and then went forward strongly to finally produce a tremendous shot which the home home keeper failed to hold. The ball appeared to fall behind the line, but Tom, following up, made certain it was in the net and H&H had achieved their third goal. (Goal credited to Jack).
Half time: Berinsfield 0, Harwell and Hendred 3

The second half saw Ricky replacing Harvey in defence. H&H were soon moving forward and almost immediately a quick break saw Samuel advancing swiftly down the left wing. He let loose an excellent effort which struck the keeper, the ball diverting into the home net to put the away side into a four goal lead. The anxiety levels within the away supporters were now naturally non-existent. To their credit, Berinsfield were still trying hard and Nick was called upon twice in quick succession to ensure the away goal remained intact. Harwell and Hendred then scored a fifth when Calum made a clever pass to find Tom in space. Tom responded with an accurate and powerful effort which gave the home keeper no chance.
Berinsfield were finding it very difficult to compete against such a strong H&H side and it seemed inevitable that more goals would be conceded by the home team. Calum was continually probing and Samuel's wing play and effective centres was an exciting feature of the second half. It was one such centre that led to goal number six, when Tom rose to meet Samuel's cross and head past the home keeper. Berinsfield, urged on by the home crowd, made a spirited attempt to reduce the arrears, only for Nick to make a great save after an excellent effort by the home forwards. Calum, again involved, was brought down just outside the Berinsfield penalty area. He elected to take the resulting free kick himself and then drove the ball with some power and direction into the corner of the net to complete his hat-trick and goal number seven. Samuel again went close and then after a move between Calum, Samuel and Tom, Tom hit a tremendous effort which was brilliantly saved by the home keeper.
Samuel Kent and George Broom had replaced Maili and Jack as the second half progressed.
Nick was again called upon to clear, pushing a shot away for a corner. Samuel Kent and George performing very well in defence, with Sam's quick-tackling and decisive clearances very much a feature. Tom, again showing extreme urgency and naturally looking to obtain his hat-trick, forced another great save from the home keeper.. The half ended with the Berinsfield keeper making another fine save.
At the final whistle, Berinsfield, led by their coach, offered their congratulations to Harwell and Hendred in winning the league. A wonderful gesture which does them great credit and which was much appreciated by the players, coaches and supporters of H&H.

Final Score: Berinsfield 0; Harwell and Hendred 7
Scorers: Calum Sykes (3), Tom Cooper (2), Samuel Barham; Jack Cooper.

A tremendous performance by Harwell and Hendred. An appropriate ending to what has been a remarkably successful season, for H&H have been top of the league throughout. Congratulations must naturally go to a fine team display over several months and to the coaching staff of Martin and Bill, whose dedication in time and effort has been immense. Together they have achieved the ultimate success of becoming league champions. It should also be remembered that the supporters have played their part by turning out in great numbers and in all weathers to give their encouragement and support.

Jim Hughes,
21/03/2010.
Many apologies for the late issue of this match report. Problems with my computer.

Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire(GK), Maili Nugent, Harvey Dunsdon, Calum Sykes, Jack Cooper, Samuel Barham, Tom Cooper.
Michael Bevan (sub), Ricky Mullins (sub), George Broom (sub), Samuel Kent (sub).

Another large crowd had made their way to watch what would be the penultimate match of Harwell and Hendred's very successful season. Having disposed of their nearest rivals over the past few weeks, H&H met a much improved Wantage side who could well give them a stern test.

Tom broke clear from the start, but his strong run was intercepted and cleared by the Wantage defence. Jack and Samuel much involved as the game got underway. Wantage coping quite well with H&H's early possession and were able to break away to produce a first time effort which rebounded off Nick's legs. Another attempt went just passed the post.
Harvey, back in the starting line-up, was showing his defensive qualities by some quick clearances. Maili, as determined as ever, would not allow any space to the opposing forwards, and even when beaten to the tackle initially, was immediately back to regain possession and clear.
A good move involving Tom, Calum and Samuel saw an opportunity for Jack who just shot wide. Tom and Samuel again combined for Samuel to put a fine ball across the Wantage area, where Jack, running in, was just denied by the away keeper's intervention. Calum's natural trickery in midfield helped him to keep control of the ball, put a neat pass to Tom for him to square to Jack whose first time effort went narrowly wide. Wantage were strugging to contain the home attack, but they did have an opportunity only for their attempt to be directed straight at Nick. Tom was working hard up front, his strength and powerful approach giving some concern to the away rearguard. Jack and Tom combined for Tom to hit a strong shot but straight at the keeper. H&H forced a corner, taken by Samuel, but just as the corner was taken, the referee stopped play because of an injury to a Wantage defender. Meanwhile, the ball had actually entered the Wantage net, but could not be considered a goal, because play had been terminated. The corner was re-taken as instructed and danger was cleared. The home side continued to dominate. A corner by Jack broke right across the Wantage goal area and was met by Harvey, whose effort went just wide of the post. Calum and Samuel both went close with the Wantage keeper again clearing the threat. Samuel found Jack in space with a great ball. Jack was heavily tackled and must have had quite a knock, because he had to leave the field shortly after. Jack had been working very hard as usual and had been unlucky not to have scored with some fine attempts. Ricky replaced Jack and was soon in evidence with his busy quick tackling and decisive approach. Free kick, taken by Samuel, fell to Tom whose shot struck an away defender before going out of play. The resulting corner, taken by Calum, saw Samuel get a slight touch on the ball before it was well saved by the keeper. Samuel, who was having a terrific match, made a run down the wing to cross into the middle, where it was met by Tom. Tom cleverly glanced the ball to Calum, who made no mistake from close in to put the home side in front. At last, H&H's pressure had been rewarded, just as half-time approached. Shortly after, Ricky, Calum, Tom and Samuel combined well for Samuel to produce a super strike. The Wantage keeper made an excellent save thus avoiding his side going further behind.
Half time: Harwell and Hendred 1, Wantage Concords 0.

The second half started with H&H now having the advantage of the sloping ground. An early shot by Tom just went wide, as the home side pressed forward. The home team continued to dominate in the early stages of the second half. Nick was rarely troubled. Maili's determined defending continued to feature and Ricky's exuberant play emphasized the urgency he put into his game. One of Nick's long kicks caused some panic in the Wantage defence, one of their defenders almost heading into his own net. Wantage finding it difficult to contain H&H's pressure. Tom again went close. Successive corners taken by the home side produced a first-time effort by Harvey which just cleared the bar. Another of Tom's long throws into the away penalty area gave some concern to the away defence and their keeper did well to get possession from amongst a crowd of players. Samuel going forward with purpose, produced what must be considered a fantastic shot from about 25 yards out. He hit the ball with power, the ball dipping and swerving to find the top corner of the net. The keeper had no chance and H&H were on their way to another victory.
There had been little attacking response from Wantage during the second half. H&H were enjoying practically all of the play with Tom, particularly, going close on several occasions. His strength and persistence was constantly creating anxiety in the away defence. The Wantage keeper made several important saves to restrict the score. Again Maili and Harvey, both having a fine game, consistently prevented the home forwards from making any inroads towards the home goal.

Final Score: Harwell and Hendred 2; Wantage Concords 0.
Scorers: Calum Sykes, Samuel Barham.

A comfortable victory for Harwell and Hendred. A superb performance by the whole team with Samuel's goal unlikely to be forgotten. With news filtering through from nearby Ardington that nearest rivals, Brightwell, had been soundly beaten, it seemed that championship honours will be coming the way of the home side. Its a general view that complacency can be a worry when these circumstances occur, but it is difficult to believe that this will be an issue with this Harwell and Hendred side as they look forward to their final game.

Jim Hughes.
02/03/2010.

Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Maili Nugent, Ricky Mullins, Calum Sykes,Jack Cooper, Samuel Barham, Tom Cooper.
Michael Bevan (sub), George Broom (sub), Harvey Dunsdon (sub).

A large and enthusiastic crowd in support of both teams was clear evidence of how important this game was to each club. The home side were aware they needed to win to ensure their continued interest in gaining the league title.
Brightwell started strongly and forced two early corners. H&H were soon showing their own talents, particularly when a long clearance from Nick found Tom, who quickly tested the Brightwell keeper with a fine effort. Calum and Tom combined for Tom to hit a powerful shot, which was again saved by the away keeper. Samuel working hard as usual, put Tom clear with a fine through ball. A resulting superb effort by Tom was heading for the left-hand corner of the net, only for the keeper to pull off a great save by pushing the ball away for a corner. H &H continued to press with Calum much in evidence, while Tom's long throws and Nick's lengthy kicks were clearly troubling the away defence. Jack and Calum both had attempts which just went wide of the target. As half-time approached, a well taken corner by Samuel was met by Tom who just headed wide.
Maili was again proving her worth in defence, quick to respond when Brightwell went forward. Ricky, too, was playing his part and Jack was back to support his defence on several occasions. Nick's capability in goal, gives confidence to the whole team. He showed his alertness whenever Brightwell threatened and produced an especially fine save just before half-time.
Half time: Harwell and Hendred 0; Brightwell 0.

Harvey replaced Maili at the start of the second half. Brightwell, going forward with purpose, forced a corner which struck the top netting. Both defences were proving to be on top, with good tackling by Tom and Samuel in midfield. Tom and Jack were combining well at times, Jack unlucky with two opportunities, both producing good saves by the away keeper. Brightwell, very quick and resolute in defence, forced two corners as they tried to make inroads into the H&H rearguard. One attempt went straight at Nick, who handled comfortably, and then a second effort struck Nick's legs to rebound and be cleared.
H&H, with the advantage of the slope, were having most of the play. Conditions were deteriorating, the ground cutting up badly in places. It was a tough game with no quarter given. Ricky was again giving a determined display in defence. A free kick, awarded to H&H, just outside the Brightwell penalty area, was cleared by the away defence, but the ball was soon back in that area again. A melee of players surrounded the front of the Brightwell goal and it was a while before the away side were able to clear.
With time passing, H&H showed even more urgency, the Brightwell keeper making a fine save from another good shot by Jack The home side were having most of the possession, but Brightwell were quick to break and a fine move resulted in Nick producing a tremendous save to keep the scores level. He produced another point-blank save minutes later as Brightwell continued to press. Another long kick by Nick again found Tom, who shot narrowly wide. Brightwell forced a corner which culminated in a mass of players concentrating around the home goal, but with no effective attempt arising. It was now close to the end of the game and with the seconds ticking away, Tom produced one of his long throws into the away team's penalty area. The throw found Calum in space. Calum's instant strike was perfectly timed, giving the Brightwell keeper no chance as it found the corner of the net. The elation that followed, both by the H&H team and its supporters was a natural reaction, which continued as the final whistle sounded seconds later.

Final Score: Harwell & Hendred 1: Brightwell 0.
Scorer: Calum Sykes.

A truly, fine competitive game- a great result for Harwell and Hendred. Nick had a super game in goal and was involved in several match-saving incidents. The Brightwell keeper, too, gave an excellent display. Both sides gave so much for the cause, so it is difficult not to have some sympathy for Brightwell who suffered defeat in virtually the last few minutes.

Jim Hughes
22/02/2010.

Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Maili Nugent, Ricky Mullins, Calum Sykes, Jack Cooper, Samuel Barham, Tom Cooper.
Michael Bevan (sub), George Broom (sub), Samuel Kent (sub).

Harwell and Hendred welcomed back Maili, but regretfully Harvey Dunsdon was unable to play and was replaced by the able Ricky Mullins.
This match between two of the leading clubs in the division clearly attracted a good deal of interest, which was reflected by the large and vocal attendance along the touchlines.
H&H started strongly with Jack and Tom combining well for Tom to give the away keeper an early test. Drayton began to press forward and forced several corners. The away side were linking up well with good forward passing movements, but H&H defended strongly with Maili particularly quick to clear. Jack was enjoying his new forward role, connecting well with Calum and Tom, the latter again forcing a good save from the Drayton keeper.
Drayton, however, were looking dangerous at times and Nick was called upon to make two particular fine saves, one at the feet of an advancing forward. The latter proved to be most valuable because shortly after the home side went into the lead. Jack produced a tremendous shot which the opposing keeper was unable to hold, and Tom following up made no mistake.
Calum's movement was causing some concern to the Drayton defence, his natural ability very much in evidence. Samuel, too, was working hard and supporting his defence as Drayton went in search of an equaliser. The away side were continuing to press, but Maili and Ricky looked very solid, Ricky clearing off the line on one occasion. The away side's pressure was finally rewarded when Drayton's Jack Evans broke through to produce a fine effort into the corner of the net and thereby levelling the scores. Drayton, encouraged by their equaliser, went forward with some purpose, one attempt just clearing the bar and another finding the side netting. Ricky was defending strongly as the first half ended.
Half time: Harwell and Hendred 1; Drayton Wasps 1.

No changes to the Harwell and Hendred side at the start of the second half. Drayton were again attacking strongly when play resumed and almost scored a second following a quick break. The away side were enjoying most of the possession, but could not create a clear opening against a resolute defence. H&H, however, were beginning to take the initiative in this very competitive game. Jack's determination saw him go forward strongly into the opposing half, but as he went ahead into the penalty area he was brought down heavily. The referee had no hesitation in awarding the obvious penalty. Samuel, with marked composure, despatched the ball into the top corner of the net to put the home side ahead.
Having regained the lead, H&H were now very much in the ascendancy. Ricky and Samuel both went close before Jack made his mark with a great effort to put the game beyond Drayton's reach. Jack had contributed to the first two goals and now made the third his own. H&H continued to go forward and although Drayton did have opportunities, it was the home side who looked the more likely to score, Samuel and Tom again in evidence.

Final Score: Harwell and Hendred 3; Drayton Wasps 1.
Scorers: Harwell and Hendred: Tom Cooper, Samuel Barham (pen), Jack Cooper.
Drayton Wasps: Jack Evans.

A great match between two excellent sides with both playing some talented and exciting football - a treat for the large crowd of spectators. The commitment on both sides was exceptional and all should be congratulated accordingly.

Jim Hughes
09/02/2010

Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Harvey Dunsdon, Ricky Mullins, Jack Cooper, Calum Sykes, Samuel Barham, Tom Cooper.
Michael Bevan (sub), Samuel Kent (sub), George Broom (sub).

Harwell and Hendred were forced to make one change from their normal line-up. Maili Nugent was unfit to play and was replaced in defence by Ricky Mullins.
Both teams had not been able to play for several weeks due to the extreme weather conditions that had prevailed. The break must have suited Ardington because immediately from the start they went into the lead, Michael Moss netting with a fine shot. This quick success gave more impetus to Ardington's approach to the game and they were looking very lively in the early stages.
It was clear that the home side recognised that this match was particularly important to them, bearing in mind they were facing the unbeaten league leaders and that they urgently needed to reduce the points difference between them.
A great solo move by Samuel almost brought an equaliser when he broke clear on the left and into the goal area, only for his shot to be parried by the home keeper. Ardington again went close, but H & H were beginning to produce some opportunities with Samuel again in evidence. Tom worked hard to find space and produced a strong effort to test the home keeper, who made a fine save. Calum also went close. H& H continued to push forward in search of an equaliser with Calum,Tom and Samuel all working hard, but Ardington's defence were quick to restrict the away side's possession in the danger areas. The home team were playing some great football at times and giving the away defence a testing time.
Half-time: Ardington & Lockinge 1: Harwell and Hendred 0

Ardington commenced the second half in very much the same way as they did the first. An early chance was not taken , and a free kick in a good position also failed to give concern to the away defence. The home team were not to be denied, however, and increased their lead when a fierce shot by Jaden Wilkins deceived Nick at the near post to find the back of the net.
Jack was replaced by Samuel Kent following injury.
Ricky and Harvey were striving hard to get the ball forward and Harvey particularly had a superb advancing run which produced a corner for H &H. Ardington's defence were allowing the away forwards little space. They had obviously done their homework on H & H's prolific scorers. Tom was very much restricted. He did break clear towards the end but his effort, made under some pressure, hit the side netting. Samuel almost found Tom with an accurate centre into the goal area, but the home keeper intervened.

Final score: Ardington & Lockinge 2; Harwell and Hendred 0.
Scorers: Ardington & Lockinge: Michael Moss: Jaden Wilkins.

A disappointing result for the league leaders - their first defeat of the campaign. H & H have achieved so much this season and although this result is clearly a setback for them, it may well give them the motivation to get back on winning ways as soon as possible. Ardington were clearly up for this game and must be congratulated on a fine performance

Jim Hughes
25/01/2010.

Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Maili Nugent, Harvey Dunsdon, Jack Cooper, Calum Sykes, Samuel Barham, Tom Cooper.
Ricky Mullins (sub), Michael Bevan(sub), Samuel Kent (sub), George Broom (sub).

Early pressure from the home side was indication of the qualities of the home side's determination and ability with their quick passing movements. Nick was soon in action to foil some early dangers. Drayton continued to press forward and fortunately for H&H failed to convert a good opportunity. The home side were enjoying long periods of possession and H&H were finding it difficult to reproduce their recent excellent form. Drayton were working hard for each other and seemed to be much quicker and sharper than the visitors. A good effort by H&H was cleared by the home defence and Calum went close with a fine effort.
Drayton continued to go forward in numbers. Nick made another save and Maili was defending well in her usual combative way. A corner from the home side hit the post as they went searching for the first goal. Their constant pressure eventually reaped its reward when they netted from close in. Another powerful run almost brought a second goal but Nick was on hand to repel the danger.
Despite Drayton's domination at this stage, the away side were showing their own level of determination, with Harvey resolute in defence and Samuel's increasing work-rate very evident throughout. Jack, continuing in his new midfield role, never failed to show steady resolve both in going forward and when defending. It was, however, Drayton's half. Their incessant pressure finally brought the second goal, another strong impressive run ending with a fierce shot which gave Nick no chance.
Half-time: Drayton Wasps 2: Harwell and Hendred 0.

Samuel Kent and Ricky Mullins replaced Maili and Calum at the start of the second half.
There was a clear urgency in the manner by which H&H commenced the second half. Jack went close with a fine attempt and a clever,overhead effort by Samuel almost reduced the arrears. There was now a more purposeful approach to the game by the visitors with Jack, particularly, working hard from midfield. He broke through into the Drayton goal area only to be brought down heavily. He opted to take the resulting penalty himself and make no mistake with a powerful strike. This goal galvanised the H&H side even more as they went in search of an equaliser. Ricky was showing what a tenacious, hard-working player he is as he seemed to identify with the spirit running through the visitors at this time. A shot by Samuel was saved by the keeper and then Jack's strength saw home get into a position to put a fine ball into the home goal area, which deceived their defence and enabled Tom to register the deserved equaliser.
There was now a level of hesitation and nervousness in the the Drayton rearguard as H&H went for the winner. The home side, however, were far from finished and went forward themselves. H&H defended in numbers. Nick saved from a free kick and Ricky cleared following a Drayton corner.
Sam Kent was also giving his best at the back. Back came H&H with Ricky again at the heart of things. A good ball from Samuel almost let Tom through. The game finally ended with honours even.

Final Score: Drayton Wasps 2: Harwell and Hendred 2.
Scorers: Drayton Wasps: Luke Hayward: Alex McNeil.
Harwell & Hendred: Jack Cooper, Tom Cooper.

This was a fine match between two very good sides, both committed in their endeavours to achieve victory. A game of two halves. Drayton so much in control in the first, but H&H's fight and spirit taking the second. A great advertisement for boys' football with full credit due to the coaches for obtaining such a response from their young teams.

Jim Hughes
23/11/09

Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Maili Nugent, Ricky Mullins, Jack Cooper, Calum Sykes, Samuel Barham, Tom Cooper.
Michael Bevan (sub), Harvey Dunsdon (sub), Samuel Kent (sub),
George Broom (sub).

Harwell and Hendred made two positional changes for this match against their local rivals, Ardington, moving Jack Cooper into a midfield role and Ricky taking over in defence.
An early mistake within the away defence almost gave an opportunity to Tom, whose persistence and strong running was soon giving some concern to the visitors. He was soon in evidence again with a powerful shot which the Ardington keeper failed to hold, and Calum following up was quick to despatch the ball into the net to give the home side the lead.
Ardington were quick to respond, forcing several corners and working extremely hard to seek an equaliser. H & H forwards, Tom and Calum were combining well together, and with Samuel's deft touches and effective wing play, it was evident that goals would soon follow. Calum's long clearance found Tom, whose centre was met by Samuel, who shot narrowly wide. The visitors were finding it difficult to cope with the natural talent and trickery of Calum. He again found Tom with an excellent through ball, which almost brought a second goal, but for a last-minute tackle by an Ardington defender.
The away team were still pressing strongly and might well have scored but for a fine and brave save by Nick. An Ardington forward was through on goal and only Nick to beat, but the H&H keeper was quick to come and secure the ball at the feet of the oncoming striker. This save proved to be a turning point, because almost immediately Tom broke clear to hit an unstoppable shot past the visitors' keeper. With a two-nil lead, the home team were looking much the better side, but Ardington were by no means down and out and fought back strongly, proving particularly dangerous on the break. Maili, as usual, was proving herself to be a most capable defender, ably supported by Ricky in his new defensive role. Jack, too, was proving most effective in his new midfield role, giving strong support to his forwards, but at the same time falling back in defence when required.
Half-time came with Nick making another fine save following an Ardington corner.
Half-time: Harwell and Hendred 2: Ardington and Lockinge 0.

Harvey replaced Ricky at the start of the second half, and was soon in action to make a fine clearance. Calum was continuing to be a source of danger to the away defence. A third goal came when an intelligent move presented Samuel with the space to put his side further ahead with a well-placed effort. Tom also hit the side netting following a good run. This was followed by probably the best goal of the match. An impressive inter-passing movement through a number of players, commencing in their own half and proceeding forward, ending with Calum making no mistake for the fourth goal.
Despite being four goals down, Ardington continued to press and Nick was called upon to make a save from close in. He was unable to hold on to another strong effort and although pushing the initial shot away, could not prevent Ardington's Scott Webb from reducing the arrears. The away side, encouraged by their goal, sought to further reduce the margin and went close on a number of occasions. Nick was kept busy in the home goal but the H&H defence held firm to run out clear winners..

Final Score: Harwell and Hendred 4: Ardington and Lockinge 1.

Harwell and Hendred maintained their position at the top of their league with another very strong performance. A win against your local rivals has a special satisfaction to it, but Ardington must be congratulated for never giving up.

Scorers: Harwell and Hendred: Calum (2), Samuel and Tom.
Ardington & Lockinge: Scott Webb.

Jim Hughes
09/11/09

Team Sheet:
Harwell and Hendred: Nick Wiltshire(GK), Jack Cooper, Maili Nugent, Harvey Dunsdon, Calum Sykes, Tom Cooper, Michael Bevan.
Samuel Barham (sub), Ricky Mullins (sub), George Broom (sub).

Harwell and Hendred made a number of changes for this particular game. Samuel and Ricky both being rested and Michael getting his first start.

Almost immediately it was clear that Tom was continuing his impressive form of last week. His initial shooting power troubled the visiting keeper early on. A powerful effort by Tom was pushed away by the keeper but the rebound fell directly into Tom's path and he made no mistake to put the home side in the lead.

H&H were completely in control at this stage of the game, with Calum working very hard in opening up the opposing defence. Several corners occurred as Berinsfield tried to clear their lines. Michael tested the away keeper with a good attempt.

Berinsfield were by no means outclassed, however, and came back strongly. They gained a corner and went close with two shots going just wide. They appeared to be gaining the initative and from a free kick taken from just inside H&H's half, found the equaliser. The ball was directed into the home penalty area, where it inadvertently struck Calum's head, diverting the shot into the home net. H&H retaliated strongly. A shot by Tom was blocked. There followed a melee in the Berinsfield goal area with the away keeper being called upon to make a number of important saves.. There was no respite for the Berinsfield defence and it was no surprise when H&H regained the lead. A long throw-in by Tom was deftly met by Calum who headed past the keeper. Calum created an opportunity for Jack but his shot went narrowly wide. Just before half-time the away keeper handled outside the penalty area and the resulting free kick was just scrambled away.
Half-time: Harwell & Hendred 2; Berinsfield 1.

Harwell and Hendred rang the changes at the start of the second half. Maili, Michael and Jack were replaced by Samuel, George and Ricky.

Harvey much in evidence with some strong running in support of his forwards. Calum was also showing his considerable ability and was a continuing danger to the home defence. It was from his pass that Tom found the net again with an impressive effort giving the away keeper no chance. Another shot was blocked on the line before Tom showed his class and strength in beating two defenders to fire another great shot into the roof of the net to achieve his hat-trick. Inter-passing between Tom, Ricky and Calum was an encouraging feature of H&H's play at this stage.

Berinsfield were not to be denied, however, and they fought back gamely, reducing the arrears through Joe Bennett. Nick made a fine save diving to his left as the away team sought to get back on terms. None the less, H&H remained in dominant mood. A throw-in by Tom was cleverly met by Samuel who guided the ball into the net, giving the home side a 5-2 lead. Shortly afterwards, Ricky and Tom combined well for the latter to score his fourth with a tremendous shot into the roof of the net. Pressure on the away goal did not diminish as the home team went in search of more goals. A long kick by Nick was fumbled by the Berinsfield keeper but he regained possesion as Tom rushed in. A volley by Calum went close. Ricky and Samuel were called upon to take several corners and Calum again went close following good work by Tom. With time running out, Tom scored his fifth goal and H&H ran out winners by seven goals to two.

Final Score: Harwell and Hendred 7: Berinsfield 2.

Scorers: Harwell and Hendred: Tom (5), Calum and Samuel.
Berinsfield: Calum Sykes (own goal), Joe Bennett.

You can run out of superlatives to describe Tom's performance in this comfortable victory. Strikers tend to get all the plaudits, but it must be remembered that this was a fine team performance and shows, yet again, the quality that exists throughout the whole side.

Jim Hughes.
19/10/09

Team Sheet:
Harwell and Hendred: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Jack Cooper, Maili Nugent,
Harvey Dunsdon, Tom Cooper, Calum Sykes, Samuel Barham.
Ricky Mullins (sub), Michael Bevan (sub), George Broom (sub), Samuel Kent (sub).

Didcot Town "B": Matthew Haynes (GK), Sam Vaughan, Ben Betteridge,
Leighton Hunter, Louie Grindey, Kian Milne, Gus Bowers.

H&H commenced strongly with plenty of movement going forward.
Harvey very much in evidence with some determined runs from midfield.
There was a continuing urgency by H&H in their attacking play, with Harvey going close early on. Didcot's defence was provng to be well organised and offered very few clear scoring opportunities. Samuel forced a corner which was taken by Tom, and although there was a good follow-up effort by Jack, the Didcot goal remained intact.
As the first half progressed, the visitors began to come into the game more, with some clever interplay going forward, but again good defensive work by Jack and Maili particularly, kept them at bay. Nick was never seriously troubled in the home goal.
Samuel, as usual, was placing some penetrating balls into the Didcot goal area, but the visitors were closely marking H&H forwards very effectively and no clear scoring chances arose.
The game remained goalless at half-time.

The home side made two changes at the start of the second half, Ricky and George replacing Harvey and Maili.
Both sides were again competing strongly with defences dominant.
H&H, however, were steadily coming more into the ascendancy with Tom's strength and urgency producing several corners. Samuel went close and the visitors keeper was called upon on several occasions to clear the danger.
Tom was obviously at the top of his form, showing much determination and effort, producing several fierce shots from outside the penalty area.
The Didcot keeper was being kept very busy and made some remarkable saves, especially from Tom.
H&H were now fully in control. Ricky went close with a header. Another effort from Tom was deflected for a corner. Following another corner, a shot by Tom almost dipped under the bar, but Didcot's keeper made a fine save to tip the ball over. Calum also went close with an excellent effort.
Nick in the home goal was having a quiet time, but remained watchful and very much in control when Didcot did go forward. George showed that H&H have found another competent defender.
With the scores remaining goalless at full-time, the match had to be decided on penalties. Samuel went first with a penalty of the highest quality. Didcot equalised. Tom and Calum followed with some great shots, but Didcot levelled on each occasion.

After three penalties had been taken successfully by each side, the "sudden death" method came into effect. Jack scored with a fine shot. Nick then made a great save from the next Didcot penalty, thus taking H&H into the Second Round of the Competition.

Final Score: Harwell and Hendred won 4-3 on Penalities.

Scorers: Harwell & Hendred: Samuel, Tom, Calum and Jack.
Didcot Town "B": Leighton Hunter, Louie Grindey, Sam Vaughan.

This was a great performance by two sets of defences with Matthew Haynes in the Didcot goal having an outstanding game.
H&H, by their second half pressure, probably merited the win. Didcot played their part in a competitive game, but unfortunately had to endure the cruel loss of failing in the penalty shoot-out.

Jim Hughes
12/10/09

Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Jack Cooper, Maili Nugent, Ricky Mullins, Calum Sykes, Tom Cooper, Samuel Barham.
Harvey Dunsdon (sub), Michael Bevan (sub), George Broom (sub), Samuel Kent (sub).

Early pressure by Brightwell quickly revealed the strength of some of their forward play, and it was soon evident that they were worthy opponents.
Ricky, having his first league start, impressed with his urgency to go forward and on several occasions his crosses into the middle were causing some anxiety in the Brightwell defence. Tom and Calum both found that they were tightly marked, an indication that Brightwell were aware of the threat that the H&H strikers could be.
A long kick by Nick gave the home defence some concern. Shortly after, Ricky and Samuel combined for the latter to go close.
A long clearance by the home keeper deceived the H&H defence. Nick came out to collect the ball, but Sam Gould of Brightwell managed to get the first touch and open the scoring.
Tom almost made an immediate response, but the home side, encouraged by their recent goal, continued to attack strongly. Maili again proved herself a resolute defender, but Brightwell were pressing hard and went further ahead with a second goal - Sam Gould again the scorer.
H&H went forward with Ricky's cross again almost finding Tom. A free kick by Tom came to nothing, but then an error by the home keeper, followed by the sheer persistence of Tom, saw Calum reduce the arrears just before half-time.

After the break, early pressure from Brightwell was met with good defensive work by Jack and Maili, and Nick made some important saves to keep his side in the game.
It was now Brightwell's turn to defend, but the ball did not fall kindly to the H&H strikers. Tom attempted a shot from a difficult angle, and a well placed corner by Samuel went right across the home goal with no one able to make contact. Brightwell's defence worked hard and gave little room to the H&H forwards.
H&H got their deserved equaliser when a free kick well taken by Samuel from outside the penalty area, found its way across the home goal, passing through a number of players with the final touch coming off Ricky into the corner of the net.
The visitors went for the winner - a shot by Tom forced a corner and Calum had a good effort just heading over. Brightwell too had their chances, but Jack and Maili defended well and Nick again showed his competence with a fine save. A melee in the home goal with Calum much in evidence produced no clear opportunity.

Final Score 2 - 2.

The points shared between two very good sides. On the plus side it was another fight back by H&H for the second week running, again supported by a good crowd, whose vocal support clearly played a significant part in urging the team forward.

Scorers: Brightwell: Sam Gould (2). Harwell & Hendred: Calum Sykes and Ricky Mullins.

Jim Hughes.
28/09/09

Team Sheet: Nick Wiltshire (GK), Jack Cooper, Maili Nugent, Harvey Dunsdon, Tom Cooper, Calum Sykes, Samuel Barham.
George Broom (sub) Ricky Mullins (sub) Michael Bevan (sub) Samuel Kent (sub)

After some highly successful games against Wantage Concords and Summertown Comets in their first two games of the season, Harwell & Hendred came up against stronger opponents in Headington Sharks.
Early exchanges showed Tom Cooper in good form. His strength on the ball was always a danger to the Headington defence and he had some early opportunities which were saved by the Sharks keeper. Harvey supported well from midfield with some forceful runs and the undoubted natural talent of Calum was clearly evident as was Samuel's crosses into the middle. It came as no surprise when H&H took the lead. Following good work by Tom the ball fell to Calum who made no mistake with a first time effort giving the keeper no chance. He almost scored a second soon afterwards with a fine effort.
The Headington keeper was far busier than Nick but as the Sharks came into the game towards the end of the first half he was called upon to make a number of saves. Just on half time Headingtons pressure was rewarded with an equalising goal - a disappointing end to the half for the home team who had dominated most of the game.
Maili together with Jack both always so strong and competitive in defence were forced to change when Maili was injured following a clash with one of the Headington lads. She was replaced by George Broom.
Maili resumed her position in defence at the start of the second half, again it was the home side who were creating most of the action. A snap shot by Tom went close, Samuel’s crosses from the wing were causing panic at times in Headington defence and there were long periods when the visitors were unable to clear their lines. Despite their dominance the ball did not fall kindly to the home team so that they were unable to take clear chances. Samuel also went close with a good effort.
Unfortunately as can happen when you have so much sustained pressure the ball breaks for the opposition, a long loping kick from some distance somehow found it’s way into the home net, a fortunate goal maybe but the Sharks were now 2-1 up. H&H competed strongly for an equaliser, Calum’s powerful shot went straight at the keeper. Harvey & Tom both had opportunities. Ricky replaced Harvey which proved to be a timely substitution for within a minute Ricky had scored the equalizer. Samuel’s corner fell to Ricky who made no mistake from close in. Now it was all out for the winner. Tom and Samuel both went close and credit must go to the Headington keeper who made a fine save from Samuel near the end of the match.
Final Score 2 – 2
A disappointing result for H&H bearing in mind the possession they enjoyed but on the plus side a realisation that this H&H team are not only a team of many talents but can also fight back when things don’t go right. A good crowd encouraging the team throughout played a great part in getting their spirits up when they went one down.
Scorers: H&H Calum Sykes and Ricky Mullins, Headington Sharks Connor Madden and Dany Ziada.

Jim Hughes
22/09/09