MATCH REPORT - NORTON RIDE THEIR POT LUCK

Wandgas Sports 3 v 4 Norton

15th November 2008 (H-T 1-2)

Goals: Curtis Roberts 1, Tobrise Chinosa 1, Dean Barrett 1, Mark Tcheang 1,

Man of the Match: Dean Barrett

It was hard to top last weeks performance for the sheer enjoyment of thrashing the league leaders but a new collective incentive had emerged. Beat Wandgas today and its possible that we could go top! At the start of the day 19 players had registered their availability however this did not present any selection difficulties. Player manager Howard Lewis had indicated this to his team this was a must win match, however, there was no need to instill further motivation. Norton had only picked up two away points out of a possible 9, scoring a total of 3, conceding 5 all on the road. If we are to excel in this division its our away form that will need to rapidly improve. All this would have to change today, on what was a relatively small, uneven, sloped pitch. Small being the operative word in terms of it being narrow. Never mind said few of the players "we'll play them on any surface".

In buoyant mood Norton players took to the field of play, creating the better chances. At first the game appeared to be going to form, Daron and Mark looked comfortable, Curtis and Dean were both having a ball and Tobrise hadn't even broke sweat. There wasn't anything to worry about, however on 18 minutes the first of a succession of long throw-in rained in on the Norton goal. It was going to be a long afternoon. Norton took the lead through Tobrise Chinosa who scored his first goal of the season. Andy Castle had an opportunity to put his side ahead when he was cut down in the box. He sent his penalty kick sailing high over the bar. Shortly afterward Wandgas won a free kick on the edge of the box. From the resulting passage of play Player Manager/Keeper made a hash of a lofted shot when he failed to clear only to see it nestle in the back of the net. Having seen the havoc Wandgas' long throw-in were creating Curtis Roberts began to do the same for Norton. Fortuitously, on 37th minute Curtis's throw-in sailed straight into the goal taking the slightest of touches of Dean Barretts er.....shadow/shin. Norton players ran away to celebrate going 2-1 ahead while players from Wandgas Sports hotly disputed the decision, stating "No one had touched the ball". Anyhow the goal was awarded by Mr Ian Brash (Referee) leaving many to ponder another of lives little mysteries. Anyhow 2-1 Norton at half-time.

Norton flew out of the block after the restart. Now playing the better football Dean Barrett and Curtis Roberts together went through the Wandgas defence like hot knives through butter. There was no surprise at all when a neat four man move involving one and two touch passes resulted in the goal of the match, scored by Curtis Roberts. The most composed finish of the day was produced by Mark Techang when he showed the art of keeping your head in the box. Wandgas 1 - Norton 4, game over? Having gone 3 goals up changes were made. Further chances were created but not taken, the unluckiest fell to Dean Barrett who could only watch his shot come back of the post. The easiest chance fell to Tom Webster who had come on as a sub. He sent his shot wide having created the opening for himself. With 25 minutes left to go the question on everyone lips was "would Norton pay for not taking their chances"? Wandgas 2 - Norton 4 came when a their tricky number 8 out stripped the Norton defence for pace but not Keeper Howard Lewis who got to the ball first. Penalty awarded, penalty scored. Wandgas 3 - Norton 4 came following a passage of play after Wandgas went route one with their trusted long thrower. With passions Wandgas went for an equaliser. Luis Azevedo also entering the match as a sub somehow stayed on the pitch after a reckless tackle on his opposite number, he was shown a yellow card. No such for the Wandgas player who was consequently shown a red for attempted retribution. Wandgas 4 - Norton 4 fortunately not. Last minute interventions by both defence and keeper ensured Norton went home with the points.

Man of the match: Dean Barrett

MATCH REPORT - SUPERCALAFRAGILISTICEDGARALLENPOECIOUS

Norton 10 (Ten) v 5 (Five) Supercala

8th November 2008 (H-T 3-5)

Goals: Jonathan McKibben 3, Curtis Roberts 2, Ashley Myres 2, Andy Castle 1, Dean Barrett 1, Luis Azevedo 1,

Man of the Match: Curtis Roberts

Boasting a record against club Norton of played 6 won six, Supercala were forgiven for their pre-match confidence. The truth be told at 1:30pm we had the bare 11 players and including a player we registered on the day, who was later thrown straight into the thick of battle. Nevertheless as planned, the match went ahead and within a minute following a combination of hesitancy from debutant Martin Webber and a statuesque Nuno De Jesus Supercala scored. From the restart sloppy passing in the centre of the pitch led to Supercala punting a high up and under into the Sun which was somehow dropped by Nuno De Jesus in the penalty area. Supercala’s unmarked number 10 gleefully dispatched the loose ball into the Norton goal. From the restart Supercala buoyed on by scoring fortuitously got a third. Following a shot form a free kick that cannoned of Nuno’s chest into the path of a Supercala player, who slotted coolly. Norton continued to play and was rewarded when Captain Luis Azevedo deflected free-kick rippled the back of the net offering his side a life line. However this was short respite as further goalkeeping errors threaten to condemn Norton to their seventh league defeat against Supercala. Unsuprisingly, having gone 3 goals down after 4 minutes, 5 -1 down after 27 minutes, an unlucky Nuno De Jesus was substituted. Supercala on the other hand could not contain their joy of the nature of their goals. Making his third outing in goal for the season was player manager Howard Lewis who set about marshalling his defence to maintain a clean sheet for the rest of the match. By half-time the constant both threat of Curtis Roberts and Jonny McKibben had clawed Norton back into the match. Both chipping in with two well worked goals.


During the interval rousing motivational speeches were given by Andy Castle and Howard Lewis before another change was made. As soon as the centre was taken following player instructions to the word, Curtis collected the ball on the left beat two players and hammered in his second goal of the match. "Get in, game on Norton! Arguing among Supercala players began to manifest as players from both camps scrapped for every loose ball. Norton driven by a collective purpose to ram the 1st-half Mickey taking back down their opponents throats equalised through Jonny Mckibben. Given the situation earlier in the match, with a scoreline showing Norton 5 – 5 Supercala many would have settled for that, but not us. Supercala, now out played and out foxed reverted to using crude tactics. However, ironically it was a succession of crunching tackles by Tobrise Chinosa, Andy Castle and the brilliant Dean Barrett that pushed Supercala over the edge. Match referee Steve Watson was spot on with his decisions and was placed under considerable pressure by several Supercala players, not to mention he wasn’t helped by their dubious linesman. With the scores level on 5-5 the referee could have abandoned the match after a member of the opposition came into contact with him in an attempt to dispute a decision. To his credit and given the weather conditions he played on, sending two Supercala players away from the field of play.


Norton now playing their best football of the season effortlessly cut Supercala apart to score a sixth through the head of Andy Castle and a seventh following good approach play by Ashley Myers. Joseph Muvunyi substituted the energetic Curtis Roberts on 75 minuts then went onto frustrat Supercala with a brilliant cameo of skill and ball retention. As the game drew to a close it would appear Supercala were trying to get the match abandoned with a number of reckless challenges. Dean Barrett was brought down in the box by the last man who was subsequently sent from the field of play. The following penalty rippled the back of the net. Minutes later Ashley Myers waltz his way around a dispirited defence to score his second of the game. Dean Barrett capped a fine individual performance with a superbly taken gaol to send Norton into double figures and condemn Supercala to their first league defeat of the season. Consequently the match ended with Supercala having 7 outfield players having received 3 red cards. To be fair to Supercala they are very worthy of their league leaders status, however their hot headedness could spoil things for the rest of their season.

As for us, all things considered this was mission accomplished and a great result for Norton FC. Well done lads all involved with Norton played their part today. Given the condition the club would like to convey a special thanks to match referee Steve Watson for a very good performance.

Man of the match: Curtis Roberts

MATCH REPORT - NORTON DIG IN AGAINST THE WARROIRS

Norton 2 v 1 Cheam Village Warriors Res

1st November 2008 (H-T 0-1)

Goals: Jonathan McKibben 2

Man of the Match: Jonathan McKibben

Jonathan McKibben continued his rich vien of goalscoring form to grab a brace to see of the challenge of Cheam Village Warriors (CVW). Please note it wasn't plain sailing, CVM typically dogged can definitely play. However they can also rue themselves unlucky to have been paired against a Norton side also determine to protect what they hold.

Norton set about their business in the opening exchanges with purpose twice coming close through long range efforts from Dean Barrett and Moritz Martin. With conditions awful for ducks let alone footballers, a midfield battle ensued. Involving all 20 determine players this was a match for men and a fantastic contest. No half measures were taken as players from both camps rolled up their sleeves and dug in for a long afternoon.

The breakthrough came midway through the first half. Following a period of sustained pressure, Howard Lewis who had a shaky start contributed to a deserved opening goal for his side. When his throw-in was flicked on by Andrew Castle and met by Jonathan McKibben with Dean Barrett in close attendance. McKibben got the final touch to increase his impressive goal to games ratio. Going a goal behind sparked CVW into life which resulted in their best football of the match. Do or die efforts to prevent an equalising goal or even a shot on target was epitomised through some brave defending by Davide Enrico and Rob Gavin.

On 39th Minute Tom Webster gave away a stone wall penalty which was adjudged outside the box. Fortunately the fierce shot that was to follow was manfully blocked by Davide who was to take no further part in the match following an assessment at half-time.

Whether conditions worsened as Norton played into the driving wind. For 20 minutes both teams cancelled each other out with play breaking down in midfield on numerous occasions. On the 68th minute Jonathan McKibben capped a fine move but brilliantly dispatching an unstoppable shot pass the hapless CVM keeper. Two - nil Norton. With the game drifting to a happy conclusion CVM hit back with a well worked goal. This set up an edgy last 5 minutes for the home side. However with a reputation for having one of the best defences in the division to maintain, it wasn't going to be easy for CVM. This was typified by Greg following a double save to ensure his side kept all three points.

Given this game was a 6 pointer the enormity of the situation was apparent at the final whistle. Prior to the start of the match CVM were 4th in the table, a place below us. Hence it was a good result for Norton FC!

Man of the match: Jonathan McKibben

MATCH REPORT - EXPOSED IN THE PLAIN LIGHT OF DAY

Norton 2 v 3 Godalming

25th October 2008 (H-T 1-1)

Goals: Teirnan Connolly 1, Andy Castle 1

Man of the Match: Luis Avezado

I'll keep it brief. The Surrey Junior Cup, another pointless exercise or a glorified friendly? Norton Football has never excelled in the Saturday arm of this competition and todays' exercise proved much more of the same. However having lead twice there was much to be encouraged about. Teirnan Connolly continue to pop up in the danger area with his typical commitment and grit to earn his side a goal. Andrew Castle dispatched another well taken penalty.

Unfortunately it was not to be our day. A combination of two goalkeeping errors and Godalming never say die spirit condemned Norton to their first home defeat. Positives to take from the game include the good energetic performances by Darren Olawale, Dean Barrett and Mark Tcheang.

It back to the league next week.

Man of the Match: Luis Avezado

MATCH REPORT - STRENGH AND DEPTH ENSURES DESTINY IS WITHIN OUR HANDS

DRAFT REPORT FURTHER DETAILS TO FOLLOW

Norton 3 v 1 Destiny Academy

18th October 2008 (H-T 3-1)

Goals: Teirnan Connolly 2, Andy Castle 1

Man of the Match: Teirnan Connolly

With a return to the league campaign it was back to business as usual for Norton at what is becoming fortress Garrett Park.

An unfamiliar strike trio of Dean Barrett, Teirnan Connolly and Davide Enrico made light work of Destiny Academy to catapult the home side 3 places up the league table to third.

Goals were scored as early as the 12th 22nd and 28th minute as Norton's' attacking trio put an unprepared Academy to the sword. As for Norton, 'Anticipation' was the word of the day as Manager Howard Lewis and several onlookers bellowed instructions fron the touchline.

Note worthy performances were produced by Frank Hamilton, Tobrise Chinosa, Andy Castle.

All in all it was a great result.

Man of the Match: Teirnan Connolly


DRAFT REPORT FURTHER DETAILS TO FOLLOW

MATCH REPORT - LATE LATE SHOW SENDS NORTON THROUGH INTO NEXT ROUND

Norton 2 v 1 Old Plymouthians Res

11th October 2008 (H-T 0-1)

Goals: Ashley Myres 2

Man of the Match: Daron Olawale

Ashley Myres continued his rich vien of goalscoring form to grab a brace to claw Norton into the next round of the cup. Goals came in the dying embers of a game that looked all but lost to all but the Garrett Park faithful.

Given that Norton went out of this cup around the same point last season, here layeth a lesson in ‘how not to under estimate you opponent and value your team mates’.

Recent results between both clubs showed Norton registering 5 goals against this team, but this time around O.P things were going to be a lot different. OP set their stall out to be discipline and efficient bossing the middle of the park during opening 15 mins with sharp passes making it difficult for Norton to get a grip in the game. When Norton did have the ball, lacklustre decision making and poor distribution led to frustration within the camp. As a result O.P grew in confidence and deservedly scored from after Ashley got caught in possession in the centre of the park. Leading to a swift O.P break that drew a foul from Ernest in the box. OP's number 10 coolly dispatch penalty gave Greg little chance. OP went onto dictate the play, countering Norton’s charge with swift counter attacks. As for the home side, their frustrations grew. This was partly due to poor ball retention, however much of this was down our unique ability to argue over trivial matters during play. In short, Norton was awful and lacked creativity. O.P should have been at least 2 or 3 goals up following the amount of chances created. However the defensive interventions of Ernest Owusu making an impressive contribution at centre back and all round game of Daron Olawale kept OP at bay. Half time could not have come sooner.

Constructive words from the captain Robert and Howard were needed and Norton came out in the second half more purposeful and direct. However, O.P still created chances to kill the game off. O.P number 10 by far their best player led the search for that second goal. Only poor finishing and the efforts of Greg kept them at bay. Understandably with weather conditions similar to that of our first encounter OP began to tire. Despite this OP’s rare guard continued to produce some sterling blockages in defence of their precious lead. When their defence was breached they found an OP goalkeeper in fine form. A point epitomised in the 57th minute when Andy Castle fierce spot kick was brilliantly tipped over by their number 1. OP was buoyed by this but so was Norton as Howard gave the signal for Mark Tcheang and Joseph Muvunyi to specifically join the attack. With the game drifting into cup exit for Norton, players began to fade and lacked ideas. Shots on OP’s goal rained in from impossible angles as bickering developed among Norton players. The changing point of the game came in the 70th mins when manager Howard introduced Tobrise Chinosa and made the bold decision and change the formation to 3-5-2. Within a few minutes the direct running from Tobrise and Darren made the telling difference. Despite this, Norton suffered a couple of counter attacking scares when in 81st minute a 1 on 1 was missed by the impressive O.P number 10. Then on 85th minute Greg brilliantly held onto a free kick awarded centre of goal with 3 OP forwards rushing in for the follow up. Then came the breakthrough on 87 mins following a fine solo run from Tobrise centre left of the park, beating two players to cross for Ashley Myers to volley home. Although, the keeper got a hand to the ball but Ashley’s shot had enough power on it to creep inside the bottom left corner of the goal. Looking refreshed and full of running up went the battle cry “Get the ball”! Outnumbered and in some respects out muscled through the presence of Tobrise, Andy, Frank Hamilton and Ernest meant O.P creative juices were suffocated. Strong tackling from Rob and Luis emphasised Norton’s determination to settle the match in normal time, and so they did. The Second Goal came a minute before injury time following a brave header from Tobrise. Robert Gavin collected the ball and played a lovely pass out to Darren, who’s low cross to the edge of the box found Ashley Myers, who miss-hit his shot to beat the keeper again.


A sense of relief was apparent at the final whistle blew, however 2nd round here we come!!


MOM Darren Olawale

MATCH REPORT - SEARCHING FOR AN AWAY VICTORY

Crescent Rovers A 2 v 2 Norton

4th October 2008

(H-T 0-1)

Goals: Ashley Myres 1, Andrew Castle 1 (Pen).

Man of the Match: Ashley Myres

This game was not for the faint hearted full of blooded aggression, obscene gestures and appalling language. This is what Norton expected from Crescent Rovers. On an uneven pitch Norton started well, creating chances in the opening exchanges. However, after a few minutes following successive passages of play it was clear what approach to the game the home side was going to take. Norton forwards Mark Tcheang and Curtis Roberts were both on the receiving end of what one could regard as "brutish" attention after both players were sieved down having gone pass their opponents. However, despite the brutish attention of their opponents Norton took the lead following a long throw from Curtis, was accurately directed into the bottom left corner of the head of Ashley Myres. Norton were in total control, but growing increasingly frustrated with the over physical presence of several of Crescent players. The referee had to stop the game several time to calm down both sets of players. Maybe this “stop start” process helped Crescent get back into a game. From their first attack some 30 minutes into the match Crescent Rovers scored, after keeper Nuno failed to get any distance on the punch from a corner. Consequently, Crescent Rovers managed to bundle the ball over the line with help from Norton’s stalwart Tobrise Chinosa. More chances came and went but by the time the half time interval arrived, Norton should have been 4 or 5 goals up.

A rollicking from the Coach Howard gave Norton the impetuses to attack and get the result they deserved. The second half however was a stalemate affair none of the teams had the upper hand. Crescent Rovers used the wind and slope to their advantage by hitting the crossbar twice with stunning strikes. Norton again had chances to score, but poor decision making kept the score at 1-1. 70-75 mins. Norton were awarded to controversial “ball to hand” penalty. The referee did take his time to award the penalty, but there was no complaint from the home side. A Well taken penalty from Andy Castle put Norton 2-1 in front. However within 7 mins equalised. A Towering header from a cross beat two defenders and the keeper to level the scores again and end the match with both teams sharing the points.

Norton for all theirdetermination and grit could not break down a slow and immobile Crescent Rovers defence. As for Rovers, fair credit to them and their unprofessional, unethical and crude tactics which were effective in stopping us play. In short, few printable words describe the approach Rovers took to this game nevertheless, the return encounter will be eagerly awaited. As for Norton we have to start picking up points on the road to have a chance of progressing to the next tier in league football.


www.nortonmedia.blogspot.com
http://www.team-norton.blogspot.com/
www.norton-obc.com
www.nortonfc.co.uk (Club main website under construction)

MATCH REPORT - TRUE GRIT AND BRUTAL FINISHING SEE NORTON HOME

Norton 4 v 2 Epsom Athletic Reserves

Saturday 27th September 2008

(H-T 1-0) Goals:

Jonathan M x 2, Sam Dady , Andrew Castle

Man of the Match: Luis Averado

Norton put last weeks shambolic defeat firmly behind them with a brutal display of finishing to grace any team. However, it was not always plain sailing for home side as Howard Lewis yet again was force into playing players in unfamiliar positions. Starts were handed to Jonathan (Jonny - playing upfront) and Rodney Dodd (Gazza) the latter forming a partnership with Luis Averado in midfield. Once the referee arrived Norton begun the match looking eager to get back to winning ways. The latest attack pairing of Curtis and on this occasion Jonathan looked hungry and purposeful albeit against an organised if not slow Epsom defence. Consequently it was only a matter of time before Andrew Castle fired through a crowd of players to put the home side in front. Unfortunately, the 1st goal was disputed by Epsom' entourage, who claimed to have had a man down in the Norton penalty area some 50 meters away from play. However despite the extreme protest the referee stood his ground (well done ref) one nil Norton! Surprisingly, Epsom buoyed on by what they considered an injustice came forward in their droves, playing some good football in the process. Their best moment of the half came when a crisp drive from Epsom's busy number 7 came back off the inside of Nuno's post. Still, Epsom pressed forward but were denied an equaliser by several fine last minute challenges by Rob Gavin, Luis and Nuno De Jesus. Thankfully, Norton ended the half 1 goal to nil up.

Team talk at half-time called for more the same. Strong words were uttered re the growing mis-communication along Norton's right flank. With left sided players in Mark Techang and Tom Webster both playing with or recovering from long term injuries half time could not have come sooner. Nevertheless, both players did very well to last as long as they did and put in a decent shift. After the interval, Norton went further ahead follow a sustained period of pressure when Jonathan eased our nerves with an unstoppable strike, cor what a finish! Jonathan was instrumental again in setting up Norton's' third when his industry and resulting cross found Sam Dady at the back post for his first goal of the season. Later players joked that Sam did his best to get out of the way but it hit him and went in. Epsom now 3 goals behind made a few changes by introducing new players and altering their formation. Nevertheless, despite these changes midfield rebellion led by craft of Gazza and industry and grit of Luis stopped Epsom in their tracks. Epsom now heading towards their first defeat of the season threw caution to the wind by going route one. However, this left space at the back which was exploited by Joseph and Curtis Roberts that resulted in Jonathan adding to his impressive display with a second. Four - nil to Norton held a nice ring to it as Norton's management team of Lewis, Hunte and Roberts presided on "give em a game changes". However with 18 & then 15 minutes to go Epsom clawed themselves back into the match with a brace. The brave efforts of Mark and Tom was replaced by experience and determination saw Norton home for their second league victory.

Well done all!

MATCH REPORT - ONE STEP FORWARD OR TWO STEPS BACK?

Wilf Kroucher 3 v 1 Norton

Saturday 20th September 2008

(H-T 1-0)

Goals: Curtis Roberts 1,

Man of the Match: Tobrise Chinosa

First defeat of the season at the hands of Norton’s Boggy team. Starts were handed to Tiernan, who made an impressive debut and Chef (Joseph Foon) finalising an unfamilier first 11. With conditions perfect for a late pre-season encounter Norton begun the match looking disorganised and fatigued in parts. As the game went on few players bouyed by the pattern of play and touchline antics of other squad members took it upon themselves to change positions, thus making it impossible for Howard (coach) to make any tactical decisions. 15-20mins into the game Wilf Kroucher (W.K) worked Norton’s right full back (Sam Dady) to a point where the positional sense of Norton Defence was nonexistent. W.K first goal came from cross created by their left winger. A slight deflection on the cross wrong footed the centre back (Tobrise Chinosa) and the ball kindly fell to their forward who dispatch the ball too the bottom right corner of the keeper (Nuno). Norton tried to stamp some sort of authority in the game but struggled with the movement of W.K midfield and forwards. Up until this point Norton's spine looked weak and lacked character. Half-time could not have come sooner.

At the interval, some constructive words form Andrew Castle one of the guilty latecomers and Howard provoked Norton to start the second half more purposely. Unfortunately W.K scored against the run of play. A throw in was flicked on and again their forward had the room to blast the ball past Nuno. Norton looked desperate and looked on the verge of combusting. 2-0 became 3-0 with a lob 25-30 yards out. Changes were made midway through the half to either side of 60mins goals from the inform striker Curtis. All of a sudden, Norton looked like a team full of menace and direct running. The defence sorted out the problem from the first half, the midfield looked energetic when Darren moved into the centre and the frontline were causing physical problems to W.K defence when Howard came on . Big goal opportunities came especially for Andy and Curtis but these chances was not put away. However, one could not fault the industry of all Norton players to carry the fight to W.K. To cap a poor result poor refereeing decisions stopped Norton carrying the fight fairly to W.K. but hey its only a game.

At the end of the game, I have never seen the team looked so dejected. This was a defeat that I can almost safely say will define Norton’s season. If Norton start a game like that again, they will get beat by lower quality opposition. However, one hopes Norton can learn form this defeat and grow as a team and build steel like foundation for future tough away games. More importantly turn up on time for match or merely turn up for the away fixtures. Four points from 3 games (1 draw, 1 defeat, 1 win) is a balanced start. Norton must now unbalanced this statistic and started winning games.

MATCH REPORT - NORTON MAKE HAY AT GARRETT PARK

Saturday 13th September 2008

Norton 5 v 2 Old Plymouthians

(H-T 1-2)

Goals: Curtis Roberts 4, Joseph Muvunyi, 1

Man of the Match: Curtis Roberts


Let the League beginning or not in the case of the match referee, who failed to show at Garrett Park for the second week running! Easily forgiven I guess, given the height of the grass and unexpected sunshine. Nevertheless, despite a referee no show the game went ahead.

With a strong squad to pick from, Howard selected a physical and quick team. These destructive elements contributed to the winning formula.

The first 10-15 mins, Norton passed the ball well. The physical contribution of the midfield was taken its toll on the opposition. Then Curtis (MOM) picked up the ball on the left wing, came inside on his right foot and unlashed an unstoppable 20-25 yard strike. Old Plytmouthians (OP) knew they were in for a tough game and reverted to a comfortable 4-4-2 formation. All of a sudden Norton looked apprehensive. With this new found confidence, OP looked menacing and scored with their first attack. A defensive mistake gave the OP’s forward to execute a smart chip over the keeper. 1-1 seemed unfair to Norton but OP were exploring the gaps appearing in the midfield. All of a sudden, Norton was 2-1 down. A purposeful run from OP’s midfielder slipping in a cutting ball through to the forward. In turn a great ball cross the box was finished with a fierce shot to the bottom left for the Norton Keeper’s goal. Half-time couldn’t have come any earlier for Norton.

The half-time interval was the chance for Howard to install disciple back into Norton. Out went the battle cry, “Let’s turn this place into a fortress, followed by a new found collective decision to focus on the opposition’s weakness rather than our own.

Second half started with Norton going direct, turning a tired but knowledgeable OP defence at every attack. Surely it would only be a matter of time. With an excellent through ball from the midfield, Curtis scored a goal reminiscent of ‘T Henry’ (A former Arsenal player of allegedly good repute), coming in from the left curling a shot round the keeper to the far side of the goal. The Norton train was back on the rails. Within 15mins of the second half starting, Norton and Curtis Roberts scored goal #3, before Joseph Muvunyi' deft lob/chip/shot googly foxed the OP keeper to relax Norton nerves. Norton continued to carve OP apart, particularly down their right flank. As both full backs joined the attacked, there was a collective sense that the home side would press home their advantage. At the back and centre both midfield and defence remained solid resembling the Statue of Liberty. When called upon in goal, Nuno De Jesus did very well making numerous timely edge of the box interventions. Strong Solid, dominating was a common Norton trend with Captain Callis and Luis Azevedo quietly showing the way. Both Norton fullbacks continued to provide most of the best passages of play. OP didn’t have the firepower or fitness to compete, consequently Curtis Roberts scored a 4th, and his side’s 5th and was duly substituted.

With every Norton player putting in a shift and scoring a collective mark of 8 out ten, one could conclude that this game might have come a little too early for OP. Be that as it may the season has started with Norton blasting their way to a win that they deserved. The question on everyones lips is "can we maintain this level of play next week against fellow league title contenders Wilf Kroucher?"

Dear reader, thank you for visit our blog, we operate four amateur football teams. Each team has its own brand of individualism however very much subcribes to the club motto of 'All in One Hundred Percent". We welcome assistance, investment or new players. For more information on club activities please contact Howard Lewis on 07951 022060 or Trevor Bryan on 07831 276411 or visit:

www.nortonmedia.blogspot.com
http://www.team-norton.blogspot.com/
www.norton-obc.com
www.nortonfc.co.uk (Club main website under construction)

MATCH REPORT - HALF EMPTY OR HALF FULL

At least Norton didn’t lose

Roehampton Athletic FC 0 - 0 Norton

Saturday 6th September 2008
Surrey southern combination league – Junior Division 2 – Match 1
Conditions – Driving wind and rain

Considering that we started the match with 10 players, 0-0 score line might seem like a descent result, but in fact it opens up old wounds.

The first 15-20 minutes, Norton looked in control zipping the ball effortlessly from left to right. The movement of the midfield was second to none, defence stood firm in the horrible conditions and the lone striker did as much as he could.
Norton looked like a team hungry for success. But as the saying goes “with success comes responsibility”. Norton as a team were responsible for not testing out Roehampton’s keeper for the entire first half. Fair enough, Norton started with 10 players (15-20mins) but Norton had enough of the ball and the movement to cause the opposition’s keeper to flex his muscles at least once. At the other end Norton’s keeper kept them in the game with a string of notably stops. Following the arrivals of the late comers and their subsequent inclusion at half-time Norton looked comfortable. However it would be fair to say the away side lacked the penetrative thrust to turn their drive into a goal advantage.

Would this have been the manager’s starting 11 had the selection been available at the beginning of the game? And if so would the result had been different? Having weathered a Norton onslaught, Roehampton began to rally and by this time came forward with purpose. Their playmaker started to dictate the play; drawing fouls, dribbling at pace, causing problem to the midfielders and defence of Norton.
Norton’s offensive play was limited to central movement and right wing cunningness. Sam Dady's long range effort crashed of the crossbar, further efforts were cleared of the line as the post and a busy Roehampton defence denied Norton victory. At the other end, Roehampton created 2-3 half chances but also lacked the killer edge.

The Full time whistle blew and Norton looked disappointed and frustrated. Not with the result, but with the failed opportunities to put Roehampton to bed. Weather conditions affected the general play of both teams, epspecially that of ten man Norton before the break. Nevertheless, with no disrespect intended, Roehampton are neither a Supercala nor a Trinity. This is a team that Norton should have beaten hands down. Am I being over critical? We will soon see

MAN OF THE MATCH: Howard Lewis


Dear reader, thank you for visit our blog, we operate four amateur football teams. Each team has its own brand of individualism however very much subcribes to the club motto of 'All in One Hundred Percent". We welcome assistance, investment or new players.

For more information on club activities please contact Howard Lewis on 07951 022060 or Trevor Bryan on 07831 276411 or visit:

• www.nortonmedia.blogspot.com
• http://www.team-norton.blogspot.com/
• www.norton-obc.com
• www.nortonfc.co.uk (Club main website under construction)