I apologise that it's taken me a little while to do my first column of the season, however, I think that with us a 3rd of the season in now this is the right time to comment on how things have gone so far.

Obviously I was upset with the way that we started the season. We didn't play well enough against Stansted on the opening day, but after that, against Stanway, Tiptree and Takeley in particular we were playing well and scoring goals but we were defending really poorly.

There were some mitigating factors in that. Nick Wilson was a rock in goal for us last season, but we lost him 10 minutes into pre-season to a broken ankle and from that point until our 9th or 10th competitive game of the season we used 7 different goalkeepers. Since Michael Wakefield has arrived we have settled in that position and his influence has been seen, although a word for young Jamie Merralls who on the whole has deputised well for him.

We also struggled at centre half. Neil Barratt was outstanding in that position for us last season and his job as a teacher meant that he was away on holidays in August. Carl Bailey was away at the same time, and when he came back we threw them together in the heart of our defence and the results have been much improved, culminating in our current run of 3 consecutive clean sheets. A word too though for Chris Barratt, who so far is our most improved player this season.

We also were trying to bed in a number of new players. Danny Clarke, Isaac Alabi, Manny Sackey, the Marin brothers, and later Ed Chibogu have all come in and eventually we've settled into a top side. I honestly believe that this is one of the best teams Eton Manor has had for a very, very long time.

I don't want to single individuals out and even if I did - where would I start? Clarkey has scored 10 in 14, Paul Marin has made a massive impact in midfield, the back 4 have been outstanding, Tom Nyama has given us cutting edge and Fretty continues to chrun out the performances in midfield... and I've still missed people! But also a word for the likes of Joe Nightingill and Danny Alleyne. I have the greatest respect for Joe and Danny as people and footballers, and I can understand their frustration at being on the bench in the past few weeks. But make no mistake - they will both have massive roles to play before the end of the season.

In terms of the squad, I'm in the process of just adding one more - a boy who has come and impressed in training in recent weeks. I'm actually in the position of having to turn down players at the moment though. I've got players ringing me wanting to play for this club, who I am turning away, because the ability, the character and the spirit in my current squad will take some beating.

So essentially, I don't think we got going until our draw at Enfield and then we really kicked on after a very disappointing loss at Hullbridge, where we were poor, but weren't helped by some strange officiating. We needed to be patient and we were - Reg and Alex were supportive in that period and my assistant Nick Clark and coach Paul Norris continued to believe in what we were trying to do.

People have asked me about targets for the season. I think everyone's target in football is to improve. Last season we finished 6th and made a cup semi final. Therefore I'd love this season to finish at least 5th and at least make the final of the League Cup. That would be a tremendous season.

But it's important we don't get ahead of ourselves - we need to keep up our recent level of performance, keep winning games and let the rest take care of itself.

A final announcement I'd like to make is to confirm that we have appointed Carl Bailey vice captain for the season. I have a tremendous captain in Dean Frett, who hardly ever misses a game, but Carl's performance level and attitude this season has been outstanding. Carl has always been a good player, but he seems to have matured as a person and a footballer this season. He is now a really good influence on our dressing room and on the younger players in our squad.

That's about it for now. A thank you to the fans, our little hardcore of a dozen or so, the "Manor Muppets" who continue to come and support the players. We have asked them to encourage as much as possible and I think the message has got across and their comments have been much more supportive than critical in recent weeks. So keep that up!!

I'll report again in a couple of months or so - but for now, have a good Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Kev

 

Now that the season has ended I’ve taken a little time to reflect before putting together my notes for the season. I should start at the beginning, which for me was a telephone call from Reg Curtis on Wednesday 2nd September 2008. At the time I was at Brentwood Town as Chief Scout. It was a job that I was very happy doing. But I knew instantly when Reg offered me the Eton Manor job that I was going to say yes. I’ve known Reg a long time and I honestly believe that this a great club and a great job to have.

One of my early decisions was one of the most difficult, which was the decision to let Nigel Nelson go. Nigel had been at the club as Assistant Manager under Billy Cove and Head Coach under Graham Chester. He had brought a number of talented players to the club and had given good service. The decision to let Nigel go was not a personal one but it is important that a manager has people that he knows alongside him. I was lucky to have Paul Norris already at the club who I had worked with before and I brought Nick Clark along as my number 2. They are both absolutely crucial parts of what we have done this season. Make no mistake about it. Their advice and support is vital and I am delighted with the contributions that they have made and am equally delighted that they have both committed themselves to the club for next season.

When Nigel left there was a mass exodus of players and we had to bring some new faces into the club. There were a lot of changes on the playing side in those early weeks and that was something that was always going to happen. We were 5-6 weeks into the season and lots of people were already settled at clubs, so we had to go for people who were not getting in at Ryman level or people from lower down. We brought in a lot of boys who had never played in the Essex Senior League before. The likes of Dean Frett and Michael Georghiou have stepped up from intermediate football and have shown that they can play at this level. Youngsters like Courtney Linton and Aaron May have also made their first steps on the ladder this season – both of them have big futures ahead of them.

However, at times it has been a learning curve for us. We can play football and have displayed that recently with some exceptional performances away at Barkingside and Enfield 1893. The problem we have is that we sometimes play at the wrong times and in the wrong areas and that – along with developing a more established pattern of play – is something that we will work on in pre-season.

We finished 6th – which as Paul Norris pointed out in his coach’s notes is one of the club’s best finishes in the Essex Senior League without a budget. We are pleased with that – however, having seen some of those recent performances I have a nagging feeling that we may have just underachieved slightly, with the talent that we have in the squad. We’ve beaten Enfield 1893, won at Takeley, played Barkingside 4 times without losing, given Romford two real battles and are the only team to win at Southend Manor this season. Those results against the teams above us show what we are capable of, and with a bit more consistency and greater depth to the squad we feel confident that we can push on next season.

We were also disappointed not to make the final of the Gordon Brasted Trophy. I thought we were superb in the semi-final but, on the one night where you really don’t want it to happen, the officials made a mistake and it ended up costing us the game.

In terms of squad depth we do need to be stronger. I have a nucleus of what I want here. There is a good spirit, a good atmosphere and some very good and committed footballers. But we need 4 or 5 new faces. I’ve identified who they are and at the time of writing I think that I’ve pretty much secured 2 of them. I will keep badgering the others until they say yes!!! We are going to have a shared reserve team next season with another club, which should give us the opportunity to keep a slightly bigger pool of players to choose from, which is important over the long hard slog that is the Essex Senior League season.

There are a few people to whom I must pay thanks. Firstly, obviously, to the players. To each and every person who has played for me this season I express my sincere thanks for your efforts and your commitment.

I must thank the little band of supporters that we have too. The “Manor Muppets” as they’ve affectionately become known. Their support home and away definitely helps the boys and it’s nice for the club to have a little following.

Yet the biggest vote of thanks goes to Reg Curtis and Alex Lee. You don’t often get people like them in non-league football anymore, with such commitment to the club. They are a manager’s dream to work with. Their support is unwavering and they don’t interfere. They obviously have their views and we have a chat and a beer after a game, but they have never tried to get involved in selection or to tell me how we should do the job. They are a pleasure to work with and two very decent men at the same time.

Finally, I am looking forward to the races on Saturday – not quite as much as our Goalkeeper - Nick Wilson mind you who reckons he’s so excited he hasn’t been able to sleep all week – he’s like a kid at Christmas. But what I’m most looking forward to is Monday 22nd June. Because that is the date that we will start our pre-season and I can’t ever remember looking forward to a pre-season quite as much as this! Our first pre-season game has gone in as well – we will entertain Brentwood Town at our new home on 11th July. I look forward to seeing you there.

Have a good summer, Best wishes

Kev

 

It is with a sense of frustration and disappointment that I write these latest notes. 6 league games without a win has seen us fall from a strong position in the top 4 into a mid table position. The first of those games was a poor home performance against Basildon United, where we were extremely fortunate to leave with a point. That was followed by two tight games against Takeley and Stansted that both turned against us in the last 20 minutes, but in all honesty could have gone either way. But it is the last three games of the run that have caused the most frustration.

In the games against Enfield, Hullbridge and Basildon we have played well for good periods of games. We have led in all three matches (by two goals on two occasions), yet we have come away with just one point. Unfortunately we have developed a habit of moving away from our pattern of play for spells in games, and a number of our players have forgotten what they're good at and have maybe got a little bit carried away with themselves. We are at our best when we keep the game simple and do the simple things well. When we try to over complicate the game we only create problems for ourselves.

I let the players know that I was deeply unhappy after Saturday's game and over the weekend I've done a good deal of soul searching after digesting the result. I've spoken to my staff and I think it is now the time to get a little bit more ruthless. We need a lift from somewhere and I hope to freshen up the squad with a few new faces over the next few days, maybe in time for the visit of Burnham on Wednesday.

To finish in the top couple in the league was always going to be a big ask this season, especially after the club lost two of its first four games under the previous regime. However, we are desperate to have a real crack at it next season and as a result there are a few players here who are now playing for their future at the club and their right to be part of what we want to do next year. I believe that the players are better than the performances that they are producing at the moment, but they need to get back to listening to simple instructions and sticking to the pattern of play that we set out for them.

To end on a positive note - the result and performance against Bowers in the Gordon Brasted Trophy was pleasing and we now have a semi final to look forward to. To make the final of that competition is now our absolute priority and we need to get back to our best in preparation for that.

But everyone connected with Eton Manor can rest assured that I, along with Nick and Paul, will do everything in our power to get us back on the right road and hopefully into a cup final!

Best Wishes

Kev

 

It’s just over 100 days since I was appointed as the manager at Eton Manor. We lost at Romford in the first game with the Manor team that had started the season, but since getting some of my own players in place, the record is: Played 17; Won 9; Drawn 5; Lost 3. The fifth of those 5 draws was at Hullbridge on Saturday. It ended 0-0 and it was slightly disappointing that we didn’t go on to claim all three points. We are good enough to nick games like that but the closest we came was Neil Barratt’s effort against the bar in the final 10 minutes.

However, the overall picture is positive, we ended the year without losing and I’m generally delighted with the performances in the games that I’ve been in charge. The players have really knuckled down to the task and we have played well in most of those games.

We were delighted to see Scott Lovett back on the pitch on Saturday. He has made a remarkable recovery from the injury at Barkingside and his return is a boost to the squad. We were without one or two bodies on Saturday, and we have especially been missing Joe May’s quality from the right hand flank. We hope to have him fit by the time we go to Southend Manor on 3rd January. However, Duane Miller made his debut and Joe Nightingill also started for us for the first time. It was good to see them both get some much-needed minutes under the belts.

We have a tough run of fixtures coming up in January, but we see it as a real opportunity to show our strength and get close to the top three who have that little bit of a gap at the moment. We can kick on if we get the right results and we are looking to start the New Year positively.

It is of course the festive season and first team coach Paul Norris led some of our boys on a night out in London on Saturday evening – which I’m told was enjoyed by all. We have a good group of lads and a good spirit in the camp and their efforts have deserved the opportunity to let their hair down.

Finally all that is left for me to do is, on behalf of Nick, Paul and myself is wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year for you and your families. Let’s hope 2009 is a year for the Manor to remember!!!!

Best Wishes

Kev

 

I've eventually got around to writing this - my first notes for the website. Paul Norris has done an excellent job in the Coaches Corner setion of our Website in updating you and I'm grateful for that.

I'm just going to keep this short and sweet, but I'm generally pleased with how things have gone since I took over in September. We are doing ok in the league and still in one cup competition. Our ambition is to try and win the cup and finish as high as possible in the league table.

In terms of squad, we have the link up with Tilbury and Graham Chester, which has enabled us to get both Chris Barratt and now also Stevie Reading dual registered with both clubs. I'm pleased to have them both back involved with Eton Manor after their part in Chester's success here last season.

I've also signed Joe Nightengill who is a Ryman experienced player, who has been at Witham Town and Wivenhoe. But that is definitely it. I now have 18-20 players signed as part of this club. I won't be looking for any further additions. The only way we'll get any more signings in will be if a truly EXCEPTIONAL player becomes available. And I mean truly EXCEPTIONAL. I'm genuinely happy with the spirit and the talent of the players that we have and I know that the spirit within the camp is good and I don't want lose that.

I have a few nice selection headaches for the game at Hullbridge on the 20th and we now have an extremely strong squad.

Finally I'd like to wish all connected with the club and their families a Very Happy Christmas and a successful 2009!!!

Best Wishes

Kev

 

Well what can I say? I have resisted the urge not to go on record and say" What I think ‘is or isn't going to happen” I haven't wrote a match report yet this season ‘as all too often you can shoot yourself in the foot!

But what I witnessed Saturday was just simply magic. One game don't make a season, we know that! But, what I feared most all along is starting to take place. One Minute you’re the Underdog, the next you’re expected to perform, every game, which I may add is a fantastic feeling, but now we are under a different kind of pressure because now we are expected to win everytime put on the Manor colours, simply lads, all I am saying is “let's not get carried away with ourselves” OK we are now 7 games unbeaten, Concord is a fantastic side, but Saturday was all about us and our performance.

The difference with this side is we fear no-one, but we won't under estimate anyone either. We are a new side that still has a lot to learn, but we are so strong in every department, there was 3/4 key players missing on Saturday, yet it didn't matter, as without being big headed, we have more strength in depth than you can image. three go out & three come in; if we all stay together anything is possible. Tony Leary, Nigel Nelson and I know ‘things will never be the same at the Manor ever again. Gone are the days when we used to make up the numbers and now and then nick an odd result. When teams come to the Manor they’d better bring their "A" game of else!

We went 3-5-2 today, the back three were brilliant, Courtney Mclean is one of the finest Right Backs in the League and my Captain "Steve Willis" is on a different planet to us mere Mortals, young Justin Cummins is a fantastic find and to be honest, the only 2 goals Concord scored against us we gave them because of school boy errors.

The midfield is fantasy football, Messrs Jamie Wallace, Lee Smith, Ricardo Amado and Neil Barrett are nightmare to the opposition in their own right and the boy Junior Konadu is out of a Harry Potter novel, he has got a magic Wand and where ever he wants the ball to go it does! It’s as simple and as non complicated as that!

Our forwards are a complete nightmare for defenders, most of them probably wake up in the middle of the night in cold sweats worrying about them and I haven’t even spoken about our Subs bench yet! shall I carry on? All joking aside Chaps, I speak for all the Staff at the Manor when I say that “you lot this season are different gravy”

Well done, but please remember it's a long Season and we have a lot of work to do, lets keep out feet firmly on the floor and take each game as it comes!

Here endith the lesson!

Regards - Chester

So last game of the season against our old enemy Barkingside. Lucky for them, unlucky for us we had 4 games this week and it showed. We had 3/4 key players out and with the 4th game this week we looked tied. But all credit to the boys we never gave up.

With Bradley Nelson, Lee Smith and Lucien Ntolla all out it was a nothing game for us, it was very hard on the team to be up for this one, after all' playing 360 minutes of Football in 7 days what do you expect! Barkingside needing the points to finish 3rd in the League, they wanted it more then us, it’s as simple as that!

A debatable penalty in the first half and tied minds in the second, we found ourselves 2-0 down. We had our chances but failed to take them. On top of that we also picked up a few injuries, not taking anything away from Barkingside they came to us with only one thought on their mind and that was their league position possibility and with our unbeaten run broken on Thursday against Basildon United we had nothing to play for.

I would like to thank all the players and staff for the effort that they have produced this season; it’s been a very hard and often difficult time for the club. I would like to thank Kirk Whitelock who without this club would have slipped into obscurity. This year has been very hard learning curve for the players and me. I would also like to thank our Chairman Reg Curtis and General Manager Alex Lee whose input often goes unnoticed. I would like to thank (now I know this is starting to sound like an Oscar speech) Jamie Warren and Martin Ash who without, it would not been possible. Also big shout to the backroom boys, Larry McDonald and Paul Tandy who are a master class in their own right.

The bottom line is we are back on track and now we must continue to move forwards. We must be patient but also prudent. We now have a vision and it’s my duty to deliver the goods. For so long now we have been making up the numbers, we must now start to compete. Which I have no doubt we will in the forth-coming season.

Judge me next year, (wish I had said that the last time I was in front of a judge) And last but not least I would like to thank all the entire Manager’s who week in and week out are under extreme pressure to produce results and are the unsung heroes of our league.

I can’t wait to next season

Chester

Welcome to “Fortress Manor” When teams come to us now they better bring their "A" game. My only regret is our season finishes on Saturday. To my whole Team I say “Next season is ours for the taking. On the fans forum they all talk about who they think is going to win next season? Who is going to come second and third? And you know what 'not one of them said us! Well I told you about 6 weeks ago to “watch this space” because the way I see it there’s only one team who’s going to win it next Season, so therefore the only question is “just who’s going to come second?”

Anyway we changed things around to suit our busy week ahead. In went Ray Coker on the left, Neil Barrett in the middle and a fit Bradley Nelson upfront. By half time it was all over bar the shouting Bradley with two well taken goals Anton Stevenson with the other.

It’s very hard to keep your team focused when you go in 3-0 at half time.
We took our foot of the peddle in the second half and let APSA back in for a short while until that was Chris Hammond on for Bradley sent a brilliant ball over the back four for Ricardo Amado on for Coker who smashed it into the back of the net to make it 4-0 on the night..

Overall another quality performance from The Manor that is fast becoming the side no one wants to play. Bring on Basildon United and Barkingside I can’t wait. One final note goes to Charlie Tartan who for me was “The Man of the Match” on Tuesday Night, with an outstanding display at right back; Charlie’s really making his mark at right back at the moment.

Well done chaps…is it "Can we?" or is it "We Can?"

Chester

 

 

Yet again we had to change the side after some late fitness tests, Steve Reading pulled up with a knee problem, Bradley Nelson with a shoulder injury, Alexander Moussanga also not 100%. In went Mr utility Neil Barratt who is proving to be one of those players who can play anywhere, even in goal I would suspect, so watch out Chamberlain.

We moved Miko inside to play in the centre with the very impressive Lee Smith who truly is a class act. In went young Stevey Parker who has set up three goals now in as many games getting his first start in a few weeks. Did very well just needs to learn to release the ball a bit quicker.

The condition where very hard in the heat and the ground was rock solid. Brentwood looked lively upfront to start with, once we dropped off a couple of yards to cope with their long tactics we where comfortable. In all fairness both sides had little to offer in the first half, second half we got the ball on the floor and started to play some nice football. Lee Smith was awesome in midfield he’s like Harvey Kartell in pulp fiction "the cleaner"
.
Anton Stevenson worked very hard upfront and so did all the team.
Lucien Ntolla had another great game at the back and got on the score sheet once again

We where cruising at 1-0 and then Chamberlain called "keepers ball" then changed his mind to leave it for the second time in the match and the Ref awarded a free kick, which they scored from.

We had a great opportunity to beat the No1 side in our division and because of one simple schoolboy error we didn’t.

So we are unbeaten in 6 and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those people on the fans forum who said where we were going wrong, I’m so glad I listened to your advice!

So onto another Home fixture against London APSA on Tuesday night, let’s see if we can still carry on the good work chaps.

Chester

 

 

We went into tonight’s game unbeaten in our last 4 games and now starting to believe in ourselves. We have come such a long way since we took over at Stansted. Tonight was the benchmark. Romford are currently second in the table and Reedy has done a great job their this season. We made a few changes as we are playing 4 games next week! This Saturday home to top of the table & title contenders Brentwood Town, then Tuesday night home to London APSA, and if that’s not enough playing our old friends and rivals Basildon United and then we round off the week with another home fixture on Saturday to Barkingside, so its rotation time here at the Manor. But as I have said we now have the making of a great squad.

Against Romford I made a few changes, I brought Stretch in at left back for Coker, Reece in for Charlie and Alexander and Smithy in the middle. Kenny pulled his groin a little in the warm up, so in went Chamberlain in goal who was brilliant. Stretch had a great game at the back; in fact the back four was superb. Romford went long and we dealt with it no problem. We where very unlucky not to be in front at half time. Anton had a couple of chances and Ricardo was giving there right back a torrid time.

We had a little chat at half time and the boys responded very well. Romford looked dangerous from set pieces but I felt they didn’t really trouble us. In all fairness we could have had 3 or 4. Nice to see Tony Leary back after a long lay off, Tony on for Alexander and Parker on for Miko. Bradley dislocated his shoulder so on went Neil Barrett. Overall I couldn’t have asked for anymore form our lads, each one waste a real credit to themselves and the club. So onto Brentwood on Saturday let’s see what happens, I know one things for sure Brentwood will have to be on top of their game, because I know we will be, and if we win that one I think I’ll be in contention for manger of the month & our Chairmen Reg Curtis will buy everyone a drink in the bar after the game! Actually thinking about it, Martin Ash has got more chance of fitting into a 52" waist size pair of shorts then our Reg buying a round of drinks, oh well we can only dream on I guess!.

Keep up the good work chaps.

Chester

 

 

Well after telling the boys to come out of the blocks faster, they did, Ricardo scored an early goal followed by Lucien to go 2-0 at half time. We had complete control of the game and then we gave away the 19th penalty of the season followed by Kenny dropping the easiest of catches we let them back in the game. So we pushed and got a third goal only to let in a corner to go 3-3 we pushed on and Anton gets his second of the game and we win 4-3.

Bottom line is we shouldn’t have been in that position in the first place.
We got away with it today on another day we might not be so lucky. There are so many goals within this squad of players, but we must stop playing this Newcastle style of football!

We are unbeaten in 5 and are starting to gel but I expect so much more, everyone knows now when they come to us, they know they have to be on top of their game, most teams are lucky that they played us earlier in the season. I let the players know what I expect and next season will be our bench mark. But we have 5 more games to play lets send a message to everyone, "sorry but things have changed and guess what, you where lucky to have played us earlier in the season. We are Eton Manor and we don’t care who you are!‘your just another team who we have to deal with"

Commitment was outstanding Saturday, but at times we are our own worst enemy.

Chester

 

 

Expectations are high and so they should be after the Southend result. We changed the side again as we are still looking at some new players, which in all fairness with the squad we are developing doesn’t matter as we have so much depth now. When your subs bench reads Lee Smith, Jamie Barry, Chrisy Hammond Alexander Read and Ray Coker then you can see the changes the club is going through.

Ricardo started his first game for us on the left and did very well. The problem is that we need to learn to come out of the starting blocks a lot quicker; we keep giving soft goals away. At the moment we are getting away with it because our season is nearly over but next year will be a different kettle of fish.

We where forced to make a change at half time with Saul Salmon coming off with a sore ankle, but I resisted the change to replace him with Coker and dropped Neil Barrett into the back four forcing Steve reading to play on the left and bringing on Lee Smith into the centre.

Smithy brought the composure we needed as we where guilty of going to long again. Anton Stevenson twice on the score sheet again and another for Bradley Nelson who had an outstanding game again. So two games they have been partners and 6 goals between them.

We gave away another soft penalty and Chamberlain in goal will be appearing on next weeks question of sport for what happened next when Neil passed the ball back to him for an easy clearance and fell over the ball and gifted the easiest goal of any forwards life. So back to 3-3 and we pushed very hard for the winner but to no avail. But another excellent performance from a side that’s growing in confidence each week.
Onto Clapton on Saturday with an optimistic smile.

Chester

 

For the first time in 6/7weeks we could pick a side that we wanted too, rather than be forced too by injuries. And you could see the difference from start to finish. We looked strong in every department with Neil Barrett back after a long spell away, slotted nicely into the middle of the park he gave us what we've been missing "a ball winner" Also back was Anton Stephenson who when combined with Bradley Nelson up front, they where too hot to handle. The pace and strength of the front two will cause huge problems for defenders. Ray Coker was also back in the line up. So we started a little too impatient and went a little too long, in the first half. After a schoolboy error we gifted Southend with an early goal. But with a little patients we soon turned that round with a brilliant through ball to Anton who took his opportunity very well.

Young Alex had a good game on the left; he is getting better every week just needs to learn to let the ball go earlier. Chris Hammond also back after injury came on for Miko who worked very hard again in midfield, so Jamie, Martin and myself are now looking forward to the next few weeks fixtures as the injuries shorten and we start to return to a full strength squad once more.

By Tuesday when we play Concord Rangers at home Lee Smith, Jamie Barry and Saul Salmon will be in contention. Well done lads you thoroughly deserved that win, now we must maintain that level of play.

Chester

 

We went into the Barking game having been very unlucky not to get something out of the Barkingside game, with yet more injuries to Saul Salmon and Chris Barratt we were forced to change the line up once again, but with Steve Reading and new boy Luchin making his debut gave us a few options.

We started of very slowly again and rode our luck in the first half. Chamberlain in goal pulled off a fantastic save that denied Barking scoring from the penalty spot, in all fairness was never a penalty.

Tim looked a shadow of his former self in the middle of the park and that was where we losing the game. We gave our back four no protection. So we pushed our Skipper Steve Reading into the centre mid in the second half and dropped Chris Barratt into the back four and took control of the game, young Alex Read played a great through ball to Bradley Nelson who lobbed the goalkeeper to go 1-0. Unfortunately we switched off and let Barking back in with a soft goal. We continued to apply pressure but didn’t make the most of our chances.

I’m very pleased how we responded and are now starting to take shape, with several players now coming back from injury we will travel to our good friends at Southend Manor on Tuesday night with a much stronger squad to select from.

Chester

 

We where extremely unlucky not get something out of this game. The boys responded brilliantly and worked very hard only to have the first goal go in from a corner through the side netting. New boy Miko was a sensation in midfield, he run Barkingside ragged and hit the woodwork with a brilliantly executed shot in the first half, young Alex Read turned the defence inside out only to have the keeper save his shot with his legs.

Chamberlin in goal had another excellent game. We went in at half time very unlucky not to be in front. But with only 2 subs because of an injury ragged squad, which is 15 and counting we faded towards the end of the match, but all credit to the men they fought every inch of the pitch and was a credit to themselves.

The new players we have signed are now starting to show promise and when we get our regular players back we should have a formidable squad. There is a lot of work being done behind the scenes by myself, Jamie and Martin and all will be reviled very shortly and all I can say is watch this space?

Chester

 

Disappointed is an understatement. I think some of the teams in our league have employed a witch doctor, because our injury list is growing faster than Martin’s waistline. We simply forgot how to play football. We left our brains in the changing room. Yet again we had to pick a different line up because of injuries but at the end of the day you could see what was going to happen just by watching the warm up.

There was no desire, in first 10 mins we tried to play football but we completely lost the game in the middle of the park. David Annobil was well below himself as well as most of the team. The first goal was a joke if you give away a free kick outside the edge of your area, you must get some one to stand in front of the ball and let the referee push you back or what happens is they take a quick free kick and the rest was history.

We just didn’t compete enough. We keep going far to long and we are not direct enough having only scored 5 in our last 6 games we need to take our chances more often. Chamberlin in goal had a good game, and that’s about the only high light of a very poor showing on our behalf. If you have to tell or teach players the basics of the game then obviously you don’t fit in at this level. Martin, Jamie and myself are very frustrated at the attitude of certain players at the moment and its time to move on and start to cut the squad down and prepare for next season and on reflection of that result we would probably only take about 4 or 5 players into next season. So onto Monday’s game away to Barkingside, which will be a hard game especially if we played the way, we did today.

Chester

 

After two very good performances away to Burnham and last Saturday’s home game to Sawbo in which we didn’t get anything apart from a fantastic report from the league Chairman. We found ourselves away to Beaumont who have let in 113 goals this season. Last time we played them we won
6-2. Well they are a completely different outfit now. They are very organised and very fit team. They work very hard for each other and will cause a lot of team’s problems.

With injuries and suspensions we had another changed line up without our two first choice goalkeepers, Ragan Bailey started in goal on his debut. In the first half we were very poor, second in every department. We were out played, and second to every ball and lacked confidence. After the good football we’ve played in the last two games we just completely forgot how to play football. All we did was play the long ball. I don’t think we put more than 3 passes together all half. Apparently after Saturdays game there was 4/5 players who also played on Sunday, so by Monday nights game you could really tell that there performances where well below par.
So we had a little chat in the changing room at half time and the second half we responded very well. After being a goal down we drew level after a great header by Steve Reading. We made a few changes in the second half bringing on David Annabel who really settled the midfield down and started to make things happen for us. We also brought on Steve Thomas in midfield and after Saul Salmon had to come off injured on went Robert Boyce. We didn’t take our chances and a draw was a fair reflection of the game.
I’ve signed a couple of new players this week Bradley Nelson from Sawbridgeworth a big strong centre forward and Anton Stephenson is back with us.

I’ve let go Tazewell Thompson this week and we wish him all the best for the future. Each week the squad is getting stronger and stronger and is starting to take shape. We just need a bit of consistency with regards to playing the same team week in week out, but with injuries and suspensions what can you do. So on to Saturday away to Bowers & Pitsea and then Monday night away to Barkingside two hard games that will be a good test for us!

Chester

 

I was very disappointed at the result of the Hullbridge game for two reasons?

1) Because we lost to a side we should be beating day in day out!
2) Because of the way we lost? There are far to many players that give up to easily. I can honestly say, which is sad that there are only 4/5 players out there week in week out who give everything for the club and the cause. For this group of players it must be so frustrating to see their team mates give up.

When you tell players that they are playing for their career and future at the club and they still don’t respond then what can you do? You cannot help people that don’t help themselves. It’s a real shame, we have several players that one-week play excellent football and next week forget how to play. So unfortunately I have made the decision to let some players go this week. It’s very hard to throw in new players and expect them to have an understanding straight away, but with injuries and suspensions we had no choice!

There where several new debutants on display, the young Alexander Reed up front did very well and got himself on the score sheet. Welcome to semi pro, at this level to have to do it week in week out.

Kenny Addi in goal was very impressive in the first half, his organisational skills were excellent, I think he ruffled a few feathers with his in your face style of defensive management. This is what is needed in our squad, which is very noisy in the changing room but very quiet on the pitch. I think when players get used to his style of play he will be a great addition to the squad, unfortunately where he hasn’t played in over a year all the kicking took its toll and he pulled a thigh muscle in the second half which affected his game.

Mark Debono in midfield was playing out of position and is unfit, he will be the first one to tell you this, but because of the injury and suspension situation he started, and with the pitch heavy underfoot it soon takes its toll on you, I feel once we get him fit he will be a good addition to the squad.

Tim Oduniyi came on in the second half and settled things down and showed why he was at Ilford last season until he was injured, again once when fit he will do well. Steve Thomas also came on in the second half and again given time will be a good addition to the squad. Unfortunately George Cooper who came on for Charlie Tarten was the only disappointment to the new boys, he was completely out of his depth and you cannot lie at this level you get found out very quickly. Steve Reading was back for his first game and was a welcomed sight as we were having a bit of a right back crises.

Finally David Jenkins resigned as first team coach today we would like to take this opportunity to thank him for all his hard work and input over the past 4 years, and wish him good luck the future. Onto Wednesdays home game against London APSA, where myself and Jamie Warren will be taking a final look at several players and deciding on their future with the Club. We have a couple of players coming back from suspensions and I expect nothing else but a win.

Chester

 

Saturday sees us at home to Hullbridge, in a game that we must win. After a recent run of bad results against poor sides, I have therefore made nine new signings over last two weeks and will be introducing them in the forthcoming games.

The signings we have acquired will bring depth and stability to the squad and will force everyone to fight for their positions. We have also acquired a quality new coach in Martin Ash who is working extremely well with myself Jamie and Jenko.
I expect everyone to rise to the occasion on Saturday every player must know they have to fight for their position
I am looking forward to Saturday as the past few training sessions everyone has shown commitment and great improvement and I am confident if we can relay that performance onto the pitch we will have a winning side.

Chester

 

Well' where do we begin? The first thing that will be addressed immediately is the discipline at the club. Now I know the ref looked inexperienced & uncertain at times, but giving him verbal directly to his face & he will send you off! for godsake' it's not rocket science!

So to have two players do this to you with 30 mins left on the clock will undoubtedly put your team in all sorts of trouble and under pressure. It's just not good enough, you can't keep blaming the ref 's every week, you've got a job to do so get on with it.

We stated really well and at times played some nice football, when we do keep the ball we look good, I thought Chris Barratt, Paul Smyth and Devon Saunders played well at the back, Lee Smith is getting better with every game and when he's fitter will be a great asset to the club. We didn't utilise Jamie Barry enough who worked very hard down the right and whose distribution was very good. Anton and Chris linked up very well and in all
fairness had enough chances between them to put the game beyond Stansted's reach. Darren Smyth's handling was superb and I felt sorry for him as he was let down by the discipline of his team mates.

There will be some new signings this week as we start our rebuilding process. On to next week training on Thursday and Bowers and Pitsea on Saturday.

Chester

 

What can I say about the 11 players we had out there today.They all travel to Basildon with a top class attitude, play superb football and still get beat? After the game we were downbeat but there are plenty of positives to be taken from today game. We seemed to run out of gas with 20 minutes to go and again conceded with 4 minutes left exactly what happened at Hullbridge. I know we are a better team than Basildon but they took their chances so good luck to them.

Chester, Jenko and I were totally despondent with the turn out today, with 8 first team players out for various reasons, however, three simply failed to show! this is not good enough at this level and I personally feel let down by these three individuals. We must now make sure we deal with this serious issue and make sure that the entire squad are not let down again by this type of careless, negative attitude, it's simply not good enough!

A great debut today from Sean Funnell who pulled of 2 quality saves and did not deserve to be on the losing side. Great banter between the two benches today a very enjoyable game until the 86th minute.

I would like to finish sharing my thoughts with you in 2006 by wishing everyone and their families a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy & Prosperous New Year, I will see you all on the 6th at Home to high flying Romford.

 

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Well no game for 14 days, must have helped us by the way we tore APSA apart by 6-1. We looked hungry for a win today, completely outclassing our opponents all over the Park, we could have scored 10 plus easy. We have worked so hard in training over the past two weeks and it has paid dividends today. Jenko and Jamie Warren really putting the lads through thier paces.

Our new signing Anton Stephenson made a superb debut with a well taken Hat Trick, what a great start and hopefully many more of them to come. Anton only started because of the lateness of Danny Sabaroche . It was good to have Darren Smyth back between the sticks today, the players respond well to him. Carl Bailey and Devon were excellent today and Coker had a decent game. We completely controlled the midfield with Wallace,Taz and the impressive Jamie Barry running the show. Big Neil Barratt had a quality game and shone in his holding role. Chrissie Hammond again run his socks off and our three subs McCarthy who scored a blinder, Parker and Sabaroche all done themselves and us proud.

We now have a very good squad and selection is becoming a headache for me personally, but hey! that is a good headache to have. On to next Saturday away again this time Hullbridge who have improved like ourselves so fingers crossed.

 

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Well we just about managed to get a side out for the Barking game and we certainly did ourselves proud. I have never known a injury list like ours, it's like we are cursed at the moment . We committed suicide in a 12 minute spell and again conceded a penalty, which I think is six against us in 5 games? Harsh decision I think, when blatant fouls go unpunished, but we give a tap on the shoulder to shoulder and the cards come out? My players have done terrific in the last few games, keeping their discipline in order when it could quite easily have got out of control.

I would like to see Managers, Coaches and Referees have a meeting to express views from both directions,the game is a contact sport? Certain well known, volatile, professional players like Wayne Rooney can use extreme bad language to officials and walk away Scot free, one of my players makes a constructive criticism and gets a straight red card, 35 day ban and £48 fine?? Something needs to be sorted, because referees at our level just can't be spoken too, they refuse to listen? We as a club feel victimised and I'm sure other clubs do as well, so lets all put our heads together to sort the problem out. Well enough griping onto the midweek fixture at home to Concord and Sunday in the FA Vase versus Clapton.

 

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Well it had to happen, we just had to have some luck from somewhere for a change and today it was delivered. After the week I have had with players dropping like flies, I made 5 new signings in three days and it as paid dividends, with 3 points away at Sawbridgeworth. Every player was superb today and rolled there socks down and battled. For guts and attitude we deserved to win and we were by far the better side for 45 minutes. After the break it was wave after wave, but we showed we wanted to win and our new Keeper Nicky Mitchell pulled off at least 6 quality saves today. What a debut, one he will never forget. Jamie Barry another making his debut was superb in attitude and work rate. We were forced to make a change with Neil Barratt falling ill and having double version and young Jamie dropping into midfield with Wallace. We have so many players who can adapt to play in many positions.The spirit in the camp is electric and lets hope we can take this on to our 125 mile trip to Rothwell next week in the FA Vase. Next game Wednesday at home to Romford in the Group Cup and we will give players a chance who have not been playing. Sammy Williams is recovering well after his injury and he should be fit within 6 weeks.

 

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Well, another bad day at the office, can be my only answer for Saturday's defeat away at Brentwood. Six changes from midweek and players coasting around thinking they're alot better than what they really are? Danny Hunt as had to quit through injury, this as comes has a massive blow to the club. Danny worked so hard to get fit, had an operation to cure the dodgy knee, but his recovery was never going to be plan sailing. I'm gutted for him and after speaking to Danny after the game Saturday, he was down in the dumps as well. I am now looking for another forward, so watch this space. On to Sunday's FA Cup Game and I fancy us big time. I have had my scouts out, so fingers crossed.

 

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

What a great night for all of us at the club. I must admit I cant take many more of them, I was told that I had lapped the ground at least 4 times! That's just my will to win, it's in me, I kick every ball, I head every header that's just me! We were poor for the first 45 minutes and so I made some positional changes and it worked a treat. It was like we put 11 different players on the pitch. The win has made history for us at Eton Manor and I'm over the moon for my back room crew Larry McDonald, Jenko, Chester and Jamie Warren, as I know what it meant to them, they all put so much into this club, most of which goes relatively unnoticed. Also my good mate Paul Tandy, who puts 24 hours into the best football Club Website around. I would like to thank them all for the hard work they put into this club.

On to the football side of things our pre season was our best we have had in 4 years. This being the reason we signed so many players as we have learned the hard way in previous seasons. Chris Hammond told me he was leaving at the beginning of the week and we have parted on good terms, as much as I'm disappointed, I was not surprised. I made a couple of decisions myself today by releasing Aaron Gayle and Karim Alkanash. Both players were let go for footballing reasons, I couldn't see Aaron shifting what we have up front also Karim has much talent, but simply did not fit in with the way we play. I spoke to both players and wish them both well in the future. There is probably to many players in our squad, so there could be another couple of surprises on the way. It is never nice to let a player go, but these things have to be done and if I'm honest, letting Aaron & Karim go brought a lump to my throat. On to Saturday away at Brentwood and another tough game, but as we know, we fear no one? Wallace and Ryan are both unavailable for Saturday, so the door opens for others to take there chance!

 

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Well I feel we should have won today away at St Margaretsbury. We had numerous chance's but did not take them, saying that Ricky and Taz, both had a good game and compliment each other. Wallace was excellent all through and posed them problems, when going on one of his runs. The back four worked hard but a little blip cost us again. Lee Canham was superb in the middle of the park and Ryan worked hard again. On to the replay Wednesday, I'm sure we can win and progress. Our commitment and passion can not be questioned, but our self belief can, I feel some player's lack the will to win or they don't realise that they can? Our squad is very big in numbers and players have to be patient and when they get the chance take it. Great to see some other ESL sides progressing in the FA Cup and I'm well pleased for Bowers to go through. Lets hope we follow them as we will be the first side at Eton Manor to do this since 1957.

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Losing 0-4 at home, sounds like a complete disaster, but it was far from that, with loads of positives taken from last nights game. For 44 minutes we matched Burnham in every department, then one mistake later and we are losing 0-1. We told the players at half time keep the ball, keep doing what we believe in and that is keep passing and have self belief. 50 minutes, we hit the underside of the bar, they go up the other end BANG
0-2 down. We then start to see heads drop, no confidence, all drained and we lose 0-4. Which I feel was unjustified towards us.

Take nothing away from them, Burnham are a very good side and without doubt they will get promoted this season. Our Mark Clarey was absolute quality last night, as was young Chico, whom we all tend to forget sometimes, is only just 17 years of age and he was marking a quality player in Dan Jones. Give Chico some time and I'm telling you all, he will be a top drawer player in a season or two. On to Saturday away in the FA Cup, fingers crossed, but I'm telling you we fear no one?

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

On reflection we did not lose! so a point is a point. Romford will not lose that many at home they work hard for each other, so we have to be satisfied. We again lose a player with an injury within 10 minutes away at Romford. I think that has repeated itself on four occasions. Well pleased today with certain performances, but disappointed with others and they know who they are. We cannot have half the team running their cods off and the other half strolling around. Ricky was superb again and got us two well deserved goals, that will have done him the world of good. Big Ryan had a very good game and we can't fault Darren for either goals. Devon is proving to be a good strong player and will only get better in time. Great to have Danny Hunt back and once fit will be awesome. On to Wednesday at home to Burnham,and this will be another tough game, but we will be up for it.

Best Wishes - Kirk

Pre season is going really well and our fitness levels are excellent. Away at Thamesmead Saturday we showed we can play and showed guts and determination in getting a win against a well organised Thamesmead side. The Redbridge game was a good eye opener for us all and I feel we justified ourselves against a side who were Ryman Prem last season, the boy Cooper looking a quality player for them. Stretch twisted his ankle and a few knocks here and there meant we had to call the East Thurrock game off. On to Saturday we play Harold Wood and we again expect a tough game. Speaking with Jenko we both feel we are still a couple of players short of being a decent squad so expect a couple of signings very soon.

Best Wishes - Kirk

Well all the hard work we have put in over the last 6 weeks started to show last night versus Tilbury. Our first 45 minutes was excellent against a composed Tilbury side. We showed we can pass and play, we can defend in numbers and we can attack with pace. Jenko has put so much time into this pre season and we will all benefit from that. The fixtures are coming fast we have 30 players which need dropping to 22 so there's still lots of talking to do. The pitch at Tilbury was quality last night so lets hope it stays like that. We welcome Jamie Warren onto the staff wage bill? and Jamie has already started to flourish with new ideas and bringing a fresh approach. The season looks promising, but we have said this before, only for it to go belly up, well this season is hopefully different, the attitude seems different and we seem to have a more serious and professional approach to everything. Long may this continue.

Best Wishes - Kirk

Well pleased with the effort of our boys last night. 6 players 18 and under so the future looks good. This season has had it's high's and low's. The injury list from day one was severe Smythy has not kicked a ball Danny Hunt out since November Coker missed about 15 games Lee Canham long term, Steve Richards long term, Glenn Kendall knee damage, Jason McCarthy long term suspension, Jamie Warren long term & Alan Griffiths appendix problems, the list goes on and on, these were all regular players. The high point was the youngsters getting their chance and doing very well, for example Richard Bastin and Ryan Whyche. I would like to thank all involved at the Manor for their continued support especially Larry McDonald, Graham Chester, Paul Tandy,Sue Abercrombie, Neil Day,David Jenkins Alex Lee, Jimmy Reading and Mark Clarey's parents. Well done & Thank you for your support.

Best Wishes - Kirk

I thought without doubt that Sawbo were a class above us on Saturday. They are well organised, well drilled plus their work rate from each player was excellent, this makes them in my opinion, hard to beat and a very good side indeed.

We never really got going a bit like after the Lord Mayors show. Ryan Whyche come on early in the game to replace the injured Lee Canham, I thought Ryan made a big difference to the shape of the team and as a result I thought he was superb especially for one so young, I am sure he will become a very good player given time.

We must now forget the Burnham victory and try to get some more points, so we can reach 30 + which was our original target. So back to basics Thursday night at training, working hard and getting the players fit is our objective, get this right and I am sure the results will follow.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

What can I say! no one believed we could go to Burnham and win? Well we did, we told the boy's Thursday we can beat Burnham. We had a plan the boys stuck to it and believe me we more than deserved the 3 points today. After the first 5 minutes, we had 2 chances and the boys became more and more confident. Chrissy Hammond was superb today, scoring again hitting the post and was causing them problems every time he got the ball. Great to have Skipper Steve Reading back, his so vocal and would die for the cause. Redders and young Sam Williams compliment each other and Wallace playing alongside them was a great combination. Quinny and Little Charlie worked their socks off, as did young Dean and young Matty Spicer. Marshy had a great game and Glenn Connolly stopped them with ease down their left. Ryan, Steve Parker and Glen Kendall all done well when called upon and Carl Prince had a terrific game, collecting balls out of the air like he used to. My man of the Match goes to the whole team for a whole hearted performance, from start to finish. Must say the lads from Burnham took defeat well and the staff made us very welcome from start to finish. We thank them for their kind hospitality.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

Well, no one can say we didn't deserve the points today. APSA had a couple of chances early in both halves, but we dominated play all around the pitch. We actually played quality football in very difficult conditions. Big Colin worked hard with the boys at training and again today and it runs all through the squad. We had 4 boys making debuts today, all done well, but young Matty Spicer was top notch today and looks very promising for the future. Quinny was moved out left and had a great game as did Wallace, and Canham was superb at left back. Sam Williams did not put a foot wrong and we are proud to have him on board. Smithy and Little Charlie done very well and both worked hard has did Ricky Defraitas who on a better day would have had five or six. Old work horse Jenko had a great game and certainly showed the boys he can play. Big Carl done everything right and again Lenny worked his socks off. My last words are for Chester, who came off the bench and scored a very good goal, well done to us all.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

Disappointing is the fact we only start playing when the chips are down, but again we showed we can play has we dominated most of the 2nd half. The injury to big Darren was a massive blow and we now have 12 players who won't play again this season. Darren was superb up until he fell awkwardly. but thank god there's no broken bones.

Wallace had a belter at centre half and again proved how versatile he can be. Young Matty and Joe done very well but are way short of fitness, so we will work with them. Colin Cook has now come on board and brought Richard Bastin a Goalkeeper from Concord with him. I have also signed Sammy Williams on loan from AFC Hornchurch until the end of the season. I am also trying to sign 2 or 3 more players before next Saturday at home to London APSA, so watch this space.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

Paul Docherty came back to haunt me as predicted. Again we are winning with a minute to go and concede. That must be six times this season we have done that. We have to go back to basics, one minute to go kick the ball out the ground?

Darren Adams and Joe Dixon done very well on their debuts and the quality of the last 2 goals were brilliant. We battle well and try to play, but we have no strength in depth all around the squad, with many players on long term injuries. We as a club are taking a serious look at the players, who think we are a Sunday side, by this I mean the players who come and go when they like, always got an excuse for training, late for games, no track suit it's in the wash? and these are the players who not only let themselves down they also let their team mates down as well? I am the first to admit we pay nothing, but to play at this level players should be taking things a lot more seriously. We have probably registered 50 players this season and that's not a good sign for any club. Next season will be totally different, players will not be signed on spec. Overall we have a lot of quality and some real honest players, who I know also feel let down by their own team mates. We have to build on what we have now, players like Reading, Coker, Wallace, Stretch, Smithy, Van-Hammond, Tarten, Danny Hunt, Marshy, Quinny, and Carl Prince, players who turn up and die for the cause week in and week out. If only everyone could do it the right way.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

What a bad day at the office. We never matched Tilbury in any department until we went one down to a gift of a goal again. Big Carl should be able to deal with simple crosses and so should all the players but again, we switched off, leave a player unmarked and get punished. Why he give the free kick which led to the goal is beyond me and everyone else. The 2nd was disgraceful, we kick the ball out of play for one of their injured players to get treatment ,the Referee gives a drop ball? they win it run off and score. Should not of happened, should not have been allowed. Tony Leary done really well, and our other new signing Matty Spicer will play a part against Brentwood on Tuesday Night. All said and done we are disappointed with the result today but not with the effort and commitment the lads have give us over the season, we have dropped points where experience should have come into play, but they're a great bunch, we always have a great laugh and I wouldn't swap any of them? tell a lie! I need a striker urgently and his CV should read 30 goals a season Ex Pro, 20 odd Caps for king and country and want to play at the Manor? Any offers?

.Best Wishes - Kirk

Can never have a go at our commitment tonight against Southend Manor in the Thameside Trophy. We should have had the game won by half time but that's football. Lee Smith was brilliant tonight and a few stitches in his eye went with the man of the match award. Ben Barnett for Southend was awesome 3 chances 3 goals excellent player. Quinny was his old self and had a very good game but saying that we actually played well. Chris Hammond scored again that's now 12 goals this season, not bad for someone who has only started 4 games. On to a away fixture Saturday at Tilbury of all places and believe me we are up for this one.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

Carl Prince has not had the greatest of seasons this year, but still pulls off some quality saves. Carl is a very honest lad, we have to remember he's still only 23 years old, however, for such a young guy he has bundles of experience and will only improve in time.

Glenn Connolly, came back into football after his premature retirement. Has been excellent at his new position as right back, if only he could tackle? he would be the complete player in my book.
Mark Clarey, only played about 5 games but is a good all rounder who can play anywhere.
Tony Marsh, got to be the most consistent all round player at this level. Works tirelessly for his team-mates and again had a great start this season. Very solid in every tackle.
Ray Coker, got to be the most underrated player around. He is superb and can play anywhere at the back. Had a torrid time with injuries but when he plays we are a better team.

Steve Reading, Club Captain, I found Steve playing Sunday football and he has improved a million %. Since being made skipper this boy has become a quality defender who could play at a higher level.
Chris Barratt, this is Chris's best season by far. He has matured so much and become a very good player, who is well liked by everyone at the Manor. The partnership with Reading is improving with every game.
Alan Griffiths, AKA Monster, was brilliant before his operation. So I am looking forward to getting him back to full fitness, again a very honest player who gives everything for the team.

Paul Smyth, my wish is to see Smythy wear the Manor shirt and play in at least 20 games. He has to be the most unluckiest player I have come across. Two operations and still way off playing. This boy once fit is quality.
Jason Lewis, good player and very consistent. Needs to give the fags a miss and become a regular in midfield.
Lee Canham, missed most of the season through suspension. Could become a regular when fit, certainly showed what a good player he is at the beginning of the season.
Lee Smith, I feel Lee could play at a higher level if he took it seriously. he's a great tackler never shirks, very good in the air and a real nice person. He's had a terrific season so far!
Jamie Wallace, had a great start to the season and been our most consistent player. Jamie has played in numerous positions and has never had a bad game, he gives everything he has in every game. Another nice person to have around.
Terry Hunt, another honest lad who has improved 100%. Gives his all in every game has a super engine and a sweet left peg.
Chris Hammond, this boy could be a world beater, if he just got himself super fit. Scores brilliant goals for fun, has 9 already and only started 3 games. Has so much ability and is the joker of the pack along with Reading.
Graham Chester, my Assistant Manager/Player, what a great bloke with a heart of gold. Now trying to get his season started and when fit can actually play. Again he has to want it a lot more. Proved away at Hullbridge last week with his wonder goal that he can do it?

Ricky Defraitas, came late from Barkingside and slotted in nicely.Scores on a regular basis has super pace moans a lot but is a winner from top to bottom. When in the mood would be one of the first on the team sheet.

Johnny Quinn, came back and got injured. Could be a world beater on his day and now seems to want to play more than ever, that can only be good for the club. When Quinny plays well the team plays well.

Neil Day, has done very well when called upon and I will always thank him for that. Neil won't believe me when I tell him that he's not in my plans for the future as a player, however, his experience on the coaching side will be invaluable to the Manor!
David Jenkins, had to earn the respect of the players and he had to work for it, but I for one am really pleased he has done it. Played a couple of times this season, booked every-time and tried to fight the opposition, says it all really?

Steve Richards, has got to be the most injured player of all time. A very nice bloke who has to believe in his own ability. I and all the players know he is a very good keeper, however, either Steve is deaf of someone hasn't told him he can actually play a bit?.
Darren Smyth, again been very unlucky with a persistent ankle injury. Have only seen him on a couple of occasions and he looked very good, saved two penalties in one game pre season.
Charlie Tarten, great little player with a great engine. The more I see him play the more I like him. Done very well and very consistent. Just needs to keep hold of the ball more.
Danny Hunt I miss him more than most because he gave us something different. His power was unbelievable and so unlucky with the knee injury. Should be back by Feb 06, so fingers crossed.
Lenny Nicholls, what a great player and knows how to win his battles. Joined late and has been superb. Also knows where the back of the net is, a great little goal scorer.
Jamie Warren, another decent honest lad, who is trying to get into coaching at senior level. I for one believe he could go a long way if he was gave the chance.

PLAYERS GONE THIS SEASON
Danny Mercer, a favourite of mine who never believed he could cut it at this level, shame because he could.
Ahmed Alamir, again another very nice bloke, but could never make games. This was why I released Ahmed nothing to do with his ability, had super quick feet.

Patrick Thompson, looked a world beater, but nothing seemed to go right for him. Never scored for us where one goal probably would have turned his season around for him.
Billy Powell, a very special player and a natural goalscorer. Never showed us what his real capabilities were. Could easily score 25 goals a season at this level.
Peter Kana, a super talent who obviously wanted to play at a higher level, left us for Brentwood a bigger club he said?
Ryan Baptiste, again a real nice bloke with super pace and power. Work commitments got the better of him, was well liked by everyone.

Well our season so far is okay, we have been very unlucky with injuries but hey, that happens and we have to deal with it, I feel our current squad of players are good enough to cause more than a few shocks this season, we shall keep pushing on and try to gather has many points in the league as possible.

I am proud of what we have achieved at the Manor, we have brought together a team of players that play for the club and wear the shirt with pride, we have put together a great back room team that work hard for the club, we have reached out through the media and created some great PR, people talk about the Manor with respect and I am so proud to be a part of this great Clubs history

 

.Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Another 3 points and with today's results in the ESL we sure needed them. Hullbridge were young and resilient and worked tirelessly for 90 minutes, but we now have a bunch of honest hardworking players ourselves led by captain marvel Steve Reading. The partnership of Reading and Barratt is improving all the time. Young Mark Clarey looked ok at the back and Coker played 90 mins for the first time for 8 weeks. Charlie Tarten and Lee Smith work for the whole team with young Lewis the same. Lenny Nicholls was unwell but gave us a very unselfish 65 minutes. Wallace scored a quality lob and Chris Hammond got his 9th of the season but the goal of the game was Chester's 25 yard volley, we will never hear the last of that one. On to Saturday and Brentwood Town away 1st Leg QF League Cup, we are looking forward to this as we have a point to prove against a team who tore us to bits earlier in the season at Tilbury.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

 

At last we are through to the quarter finals of the League Cup. It was a long time coming, but we are now through, still don't know who we will play in the next round? but we are not going to worry about that just yet. We played very well last night, our second half performance was excellent our commitment 100%. We were 1-0 down at half time, we told the troops to be patient and indeed they were, with debutant Mark Clarey scoring our leveller. Lenny Nicholls scored a decent rebound only for the Assistant Referee to rule it for off-side.

I must say how important Lee Smith has become to this side, he is without doubt our unsung hero. The save Carl Prince pulled off in the 89th minute was top drawer, has was that golden oldie Tony Mercer, now 40 odd, how good he must of been 20 years ago?.

That's six games now unbeaten and onto Saturday at home to Waltham Abbey, who are always a tough nut to crack, but we certainly fancy our chances. On to the never ending injury list and Quinny, Coker, Griffiths, Whitelock, Lewis and Hammond are all within a week from playing Danny Hunt and Paul Smythe are a few weeks away. On to our physio Sue Abercrombie who is very unwell at the moment and still turning up & helping out, Sue is going into Hospital next week, so hopefully she will be the road to a full recovery soon.

.Best Wishes - Kirk


Below Lee Smith Manor's unsung hero.

Another win.The boys are getting better all the time and they actually are now believing in themselves. Southend Manor can have no complaints about today's result, it could have been 5 or 6 - 0 to us.

What can I say about Lenny Nicholls, his commitment and will to win is superb, he again performed and gave everything for the entire 90 minutes.

Our back four are getting better and better all the time, but we must never take anything for granted, because at this level if you switch off you will get punished. Little Charlie Tarten has surprised us all, he's another player with that never say die attitude. Ricky Defraitas another two well taken goals that's 6 in 6, the lad is flying and has a great attitude.

Our debut boy today was Albanian Tony Guti, I thought he done really well today when he came on, he just needs to get himself fit.

On the injury front Quinny could be back for Wednesday as could Lewis and Hammond,. Smythy, Griffiths and Coker are all coming back to full fitness plus lets not forget Lee Whitelock, who is on his way back from a long suspension and a broken toe. When we have a full squad these players will have to work hard to get in, but that's a headache I will enjoy having.

I must also put the record straight that Jamie Wallace is going nowhere, so all the rumours about him leaving the Club are untrue. I have spoken to Jamie about enquires from Romford and one other club and he is not remotely interested in even talking to them. It's no secret that Jamie should be playing at a much higher level, and I have never or will every get in the way of one of my players progressing, however, Jamie is content playing at the Manor and continues to be fully committed to the cause.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Another win and well deserved I felt, we were superior to Clapton but that pitch best suited them more than it did us. They were a very physical side but we proved we can handle that with a superb attitude, well controlled at all times.

Clapton found we can also mix it if needed. Great to see Quinny back, he was having a very good game until a two footed tackle from behind on his calf which went unpunished put a early end to his night. Steve Reading and Chris Barratt both scored for us and again both gave excellent performances, also Marshy was 100% committed in every tackle. Little Charlie Tarten gets better each game as does Terry Hunt, with the ever impressive Lee Smith playing quality Football. Up front Chris Hammond scored yet another 30 yarder and Ricky works his socks off. Big Jamie Warren is coming along and improves all the time as does Neill Day who showed he can put it about if needs be. I was impressed with Carl Prince, he looked commanding in his area and looks every bit of the player he was when he first came to the Manor. I must also mention my good mate Jimmy Reading who comes to every training session every game helps out with anything. Jimmy is a born winner and is very similar to me, he takes every throw, every corner, and is mentally involved in every tackle, if only for Jim's sake I'm really pleased we are now on a decent run.

.Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Three points and how we needed them. We had to get a win so today was very important for us all. I asked my spies for a run down on Basildon and how wrong they were. Basildon actually played decent football at times and used their front two very well. I believe we are getting better and results are now proving that. Lenny Nicholls was today put up front with Ricky Defraitas and they scored three crackers between themselves with Ricky's 40 yarder one of the best goals I have seen this season at any level!.
Terry Hunt was excellent today, his work rate is brilliant and I must mention Carl Prince who has had two quality games in a week, hopefully back to the form he showed in the last two seasons.

Our injury list has crippled us, but its getting better with Alan Griffiths,Lee Whitelock, Chris Hammond, Ray Coker,and Danny Mercer all within a week. Oh and did I mention! Johnny Quinn has returned to the club and is in the squad for Tuesday nights game at Clapton!!

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Best Wishes - Kirk

Johnny Quinn Returns to the Manor

Our second half performance today was gutsy and honest. We went in at half time 2-0 down and down to 10 men after Skipper Reading was sent off for a professional foul after 20 minutes. We changed things around and the boys responded superbly and in the end APSA were hanging on. Jamie Wallace was absolute class today and I know he should be playing levels above us but just wants to play for the Manor, which he enjoys. We had to make three forced subs today and after about 70 minutes Terry Hunts hamstring went again so we played about 15 minutes with 9 men. That shows we are committed as a unit and we are together as a team from the Chairman down to the kit manager. Our next game is at home to Billericay Wednesday and then at home to Jon Doyle's Basildon on Saturday

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Best Wishes - Kirk

Well, we have played Burnham, Hornchurch and Barkingside in our last three games, and I am so proud of the boys. We have showed grit and determination and we are improving as a team. We must remember Barkingside have not lost in the league this season and are currently on a great run, rest assured Barkingside knew they were in a game tonight and I'm sure they were grateful for the 3 points. Out of the three of our last games, my personal opinion is Hornchurch are the best of the three.

We need now to take these performances into the rest of the season and improve even more. Steve Reading is simply awesome at the moment and I'm pleased Glenn Connolly who is playing with a smile on his face. Our squad as a whole is getting stronger and we have a couple of triallists training with us this week. On to Chris Hammond how good would he be if he could get himself fit? We are looking forward to Saturday.

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Best Wishes - Kirk

Again we make mistakes and get punished.We matched Hornchurch all around the pitch but come away with absolutely nothing. The first goal Carl should have saved and being an honest lad he knows that. I'm pleased we were not overawed by the Urchins and we actually played some nice stuff at times. Stretch and Reading are becoming a decent pairing and tonight kept Danny Heale and Billy Holland very quiet. Good luck to Hornchurch on their quest for promotion, but well done to our lads for putting up a good fight.

Best Wishes - Kirk

A great point on Saturday. I asked the boys for a big performance and believe me they came up trumps. Burnham are a quality side and we matched them in every department. Jamie Wallace and Glenn Connolly were brilliant on the right as we stopped their winger Jerry playing. Our midfield matched theirs man for man and our back four were excellent. Little Thommo worked his socks off and deserved the man of match honours. Richards had a decent game in goal but I must mention Lenny Nicholls who has impressed us all with his never say die attitude. On to Tuesday night and its AFC Hornchurch away, well, all the players and I are looking forward to this one. We will go there looking to play a bit of football and maybe just maybe get a result? We shall see?

Best Wishes - Kirk

Below Patrick Thompson Man of the Match

In General I'm putting on a brave face, but to those closest to me, see through the mask, as I can not hide my disappointed, about the 1-0 loss on Tuesday night against Romford. Again we dominate and get nothing from the game. We are desperate for a goals at the moment, a player who don't mess around, but just hits the target! I promise you, we will find one, but Alan Shearer will not be coming to the Manor despite the rumours.

If we look at the positives, we have staff who work there backsides off and many honest players whom I won't name here and now, all but two of them phoned me this morning to tell me they are fully committed to the Manor despite clubs sniffing round them.

Danny Mercer was superb last night and is now beginning to show he can play at this level. Our back 3 were in good form last night and Thomo done well. Next week at home to Stansted and we need a point, but we will go all out to win the game and the group. Some good news for us is that Ray Coker will be back and I could have a new signing making his debut next wednesday night against Stansted.

Best Wishes - Kirk

Well another point, but it was like 2 points lost. When we went 1 up after 2 minutes we should have built on that, but instead we started hitting silly long balls and that is not us. Give Stansted credit they stuck at it and deserved their point. We have to learn how to keep a lead and be ruthless, something which we are not. The officials I felt today left much to be desired, the sending off of Lee Smith was shocking, he questions a decision which the Referee got badly wrong and gets a second yellow. If Referees talk to players like men they will act like men but 90% of officials treat players like kids. I fully understand the job is difficult enough but to throw cards around for asking questions and letting late lunges going unpunished they are going to take stick.

I heard a lino tell a supporter today he will have him thrown out "if you keep on" well if that was the rules there would have to be 65,000 stewards employed at Man Utd home games and 1 at ours? Maybe instead of doing silly boot checks at 10 to 3 Referees can come into the changing rooms and have a 2 minute chat to get there view across to the important people the players?
Enough moaning from me away to Romford Tuesday and a draw needed to qualify for the Quarter Finals FINGERS CROSSED.

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Best Wishes - Kirk

If someone said at the start would you take a point! I would have said "Yes" but after the final whistle we could argue it's 2 points dropped. Concord have had a very good start to the season but we were by far superior to them today. Terry Hunt had another good game, Skipper Reading has become a quality centre back and what I like about him is his honesty and his leadership skills are brilliant. Jamie Wallace must cover every blade of grass on the pitch 5 times over his work rate is phenomenal. Danny Mercer feels he is not playing well, but its just fitness with him he will get better and better. It was also good to see Carl Prince do everything right for his own high standards, he has been letting himself down but today he only had 2 saves but was coming collecting balls with ease. On to next week and Stansted at home, we beat them away 4-0 but that will count for nothing.

Best Wishes - Kirk

Burnham were easily the best side we have played this season, but I'm proud of the boys for the way they battled and their never say die attitude.Terry Hunt and Jamie Wallace never give up and deserve a better end result. Skipper Reading was unwell before the start but again gave us 90 solid minutes. Our fan base is growing and again we had some very vocal support well done boys keep it up. On to Concord Saturday and a tough one this will be but we must go there and look for 3 points.

Below Terry Hunt & Jamie Wallace, 100% commited

Best Wishes - Kirk

We lost to Bowers on Wednesday night in the League Cup, we must learn how to keep a lead and learn not to take chances playing short balls in our own half, a good team will punish you every time, and that's exactly what happened to us, its 1-1 in the 90th minute of the game and we go a play school boy stuff and as expected pay for our error, it begs belief why we do such stupid things!

Within the last hour I released Ahmed Elamir, I would like to wish well for the future.
I spoke with Mark Massey after the Bowers game on Wednesday night about the availability of Paul Docherty, I have agreed for footballing reason's to let Doc sign for Bowers. Paul and I have had our ups and downs in recent months, but still I have nothing but admiration & respect for his talent and him as a person, however, I feel its time to move on without him. Everyone at Eton Manor would like to wish Paul all the best in his new venture with Bowers and Pitsea FC.

Below Paul Docerty & Ahmed Elamir Released

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

We have to be honest with ourselves, players need to stand up and be counted. We don't have video playback, but, if we did, we could show certain players why they are not doing their job properly. Some players take the easy way out and some stand up and be counted, the likes of our skipper Steve Reading, Jamie Wallace and Ray Coker and many more who give you 100% every game and there are some who are very good players but only give 75%. Its not good enough, and if those players don't want to play for Eton Manor Football Club then they should be honest and leave. When we are over our injuries and suspensions you will and I "quote"see us as a very superior side, fighting for every second and third ball. There is no crisis at the Manor, just a very uncertain future for the uncommitted few.

I would like to take nothing away form Kingsbury Town, We hope you enjoyed you visit with us. We truly wish you well in the next round, and hope that we meet again sometime in the future.

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Again we learn from making silly mistakes and getting punished. Abbey are a good side and if you make schoolboy errors they will take advantage. I am well pleased with Ricky Defraitas, he's made a great difference to the side with his non stop running and big heart performances. Danny Hunt has also impressed me with his sheer power, when 100% fit look for the name, because this guy will be awesome. Danny Mercer has fitted into the midfield well and with ease plus getting better every game. On to Saturday and Our Skipper Reading will be fit, Ray Coker will make the bench and Peter Kana is 50/50. I had Kingsbury watched and they will be a tough nut to crack but with our injury situation clearing a little we are more than confident of beating them.

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Three points and badly needed too. We were walking wounded Saturday at Bowers and I have only admiration for all our boys involved with their never say die attitude. Big Darren Smyth played in goal, despite being in severe pain. Danny Mercer could hardly walk but give us 45 minutes and Skipper Steve Reading has cracked ribs but still played on for the entire 90 minutes of the game. New signing Ricky Defrietas, looked a tidy little player and fitted in very well, scoring our 4th goal and his first for the Club on his debut. On to Tuesday and we will struggle with injuries, but we will put that to one-side, and try and do our selves justice against a useful Abbey team. Saturday is FA Vase day and some much needed prize money.

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Well it had to happen! we finally beat someone convincingly. Peter Kana our Slovakian Striker was having a torrid time after showing so much promise in early Pre-Season, so his hat trick on Tuesday night took a massive amount of pressure off of him personally, he must of grown 6 inches during 90 minutes, and to see his smile after the game filled me with pride.

Debutants Danny Mercer, Danny Hunt and Sammy Williams were all superb and made a great difference to the side. We need a point from 3 games to ensure our passage into the Quarters and I'm certain we will go through.

On to see the good people at Bowers & Pitsea on Saturday and it's a very tough place to go, but we are now on a high. so lets hope we carry our Cup form into the League.

Above Peter Kana - his first hatrick

Best Wishes - Kirk

I must be honest and say after the game Saturday I was totally gutted, I simply could not concentrate and just felt totally, disillusioned, how can a team that dominate so much of the game lose! I guess that will just be a mystery that will remain unsolved!

My mind is a little clearer today and I can see that going forward we shall be a force to be reckoned with, once our strikers get their confidence then there will be no stopping us, I think Larry said to me the other day, a team is going to get a right tonking from us soon! I think he's right!, we were more than capable of netting 5 or 6 yesterday and we have to remember that was against Romford, so look out other Clubs in the ESL.

Just like to say a few words about Mark Reed, Romford are very lucky to have such a dedicated, hard working Manager, I have nothing but respect for Mark, he shares my views and passion about Football and the players, 100% committed and 100% loyal. Good luck Mark, I truly wish you well.

 

Best Wishes - Kirk

Could not ask for any more than what we got tonight against Reedy's Romford. The boys dug deep and after dominating for long periods of the game and then going one down we showed great grit and determination to come back and get the 3 points. The squad is getting better and the performances are testimony to that belief. We are making lots of chances and that's a good sign. On to Saturday we face Romford again at their place and we need to perform at our highest to get a win. We go into the game full of confidence, so we must use that to our advantage.

Best Wishes - Kirk

Disappointed yes, downbeat no! I could not of asked any more from the boys Saturday, they gave their all. We should have won on chances, they were penned in their own half for long periods of the game and most of their chances came in the final quarter, when we played four up front and two at the back. Leverstock Green go to Barkingside on Sunday in the next round, that'll be a good game I'm sure. For us we are at Home to Romford Wednesday night and no doubt they will give a good account of themselves, I am sure Reedy will have them fired them up. A win for us would be perfect and put us in a very good position to qualify for the knock out stages of the League Cup Group B, something Manor have not done before. A few niggly injuries to worry about, so those players will be rested on Wednesday, this is where having a big squad helps.

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

A win is a win and I'm well pleased with the way we played tonight. No disrespect to Bowers but in 90 minutes I don't think they looked like scoring. Steve Richards did not have to make one save. We should have scored more.

I made Seven changes to the starting line up tonight and now I have a bigger selection headache than before, but I will sit down with my Assistant Graham Chester and sort our best 11. Alan Griffith's aka (Monster) was awesome tonight as was other new signing Lee Canham, both making long awaited starts. Adi Skyers and Peter Kana certainly posed many problems for the Bowers defence. I thought Terry Hunt and Jamie Wallace worked really hard tonight. The more I see Jamie play the better he becomes. Our back four were brilliant and played nice football instead of just kick and hope. Ray Coker is our engine cog, he's involved in everything, the boy is class. Young Jason McCarthy received two yellow cards, but hopefully he will learn from that experience. hes a top bloke , he waited in the changing room after the game to apologise to his team mates, that takes some guts and shows the boys got real character. Another top bloke is Steve Richards, who got in a full 90 minutes tonight and that's great news.

On to Saturday, we play Leverstock Green in the FA Cup and I am looking forward to that game. The Winners of the game go on to Barkingside the following Sunday. Larry and myself love going to Barkingside and so will the players after the game, their food from Mrs Taylor is TOP CLASS.

I would just like to thank all the nice people at Bowers for their sincere hospitality that we received at tonight's game. Mark Massey and Dean Wells were helpful from the moment we arrived, nice people and nice Club.

 

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

I went and watched AFC Hornchurch Vs. APSA Tuesday night and came away well impressed with the AFC. They played some very nice football and I will make the prediction now,.yes, I think they will win this league. The facilities and the running of the Club is second to none and they have a very noisy crowd, a bit like ours at the Manor, only there is 298 more of them! Good luck to AFC in their demands for promotion. London APSA surprised me, they try to play the game the right way but met a good team which has not gelled yet!

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

We go into the midweek Cup game away to Bowers this Wednesday, I will be resting at least half of the side that played at home to Hullbridge on Saturday, a few of the boys come off Saturday tired after a very busy week, we played Waltham Forest on Tuesday trained on Thursday and played Hullbridge Saturday, so I will play the men who did not get involved Saturday. We have the FA Cup Saturday and that takes preference. On the injury front Steve Reading is in contention for Wednesday and Paul Smyth is recovering well. Assistant Manager Graham Chester will be on the bench Wednesday after his Holiday.

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

No complaints really, a point is a point. Hullbridge done well. Only four pre-season games is not enough and next season, I will make sure we get more. It showed today our timing and movement was not good enough. We will be ok and enjoy this season. Already I'm looking forward to Wednesday away to Bowers and Pitsea in the League Cup.

Best Wishes - Kirk

 

Well, pre season has gone better than expected. We have a great bunch of lads and I'm looking forward to a decent season. The down side is I have a new injury to Paul Smyth. The same ankle but a different injury. If there was ever a man who wanted to play it's Smythy and I really feel for him. When he told me he is in plaster for at least 3 weeks I was gutted for him, plus a lot of our own plans went floating down the river at the same time, but for Smyth's sake we will get on with the job in hand.

The draw with Sporting Bengal was ok and the win against Waltham Forest was workmanlike and we played with big hearts. Peter Kana is on the road to recovery and should make the Bowers game midweek, also Steve Reading and Chris Barratt should be fit for the visit of Hullbridge this Saturday. We like everyone else will be looking for 3 points Saturday and I told the lads nothing else will do. This is where all that work and effort put in training starts to tell, whether we cheated ourselves, or really did work hard, personally I believe the latter, but we must wait and see.

Best Wishes - Kirk

Today's game with London Colney had many plus points. Quinny and Paul Smyth both getting 45 minutes after serious injuries and I'm well pleased to say both came through ok. The result showed you must take your chances because we had loads and only converted one, which in league or cup games would not be good enough. Peter Kana looked good all game and I feel injury free will score 20 plus this season. Billy Powell needs to concentrate on his game more and he will score plenty. Extremely pleased to see Alan Griffiths make his debut done very well indeed. Jamie Wallace is a quality player and with Quinny coming back these two should be good together. Another new face today was our most recent signing Adie Skyers who played the 2nd half and looked superb I feel Adie will fit in and do very well for us this Season. After two preseason games and plenty of training, we have this season a squad which can compete for a top 6 place, no excuses. I personally can't wait for the season to start because we are going to enjoy our Football this year. I can just feel it..

Best Wishes - Kirk

Friendly or not to beat any side from Canvey is a great achievement. We went into this game with great team spirit and it showed on the pitch. We started with 5 debutants and they all shone. Ray Coker & Lee Smith are now fit after a super pre season and it showed in their game. Jason McCarthy had a great 70 minutes as did Ryan Baptiste. Adrian Skyers showed he will be quality at this level and Jamie Wallace was awesome with darting runs and a brilliantly taken goal. Paul Docherty and Tony Marsh were consistent again as was the ever improving Chris Barratt. Carl Prince and Steve Richards had half a game each and both looked fit and in good shape. Peter Kana our new Slovakian signing was superb and was rewarded with two well taken goals. Ahmed Elamir had a good second half so did Billy Powell and Steve Reading worked hard and provides us pace in defence. Lee Egan and young Mattie McDonald held their own in good company. All this and we are still missing 7 players through holidays/injuries. What a selection headache! but a nice one.

Best Wishes - Kirk

To say I'm pleased with our squad for the new season is an understatement.The Jamie Wallace signing was absolutely top class, this boy could have gone anywhere, but he chose us and that makes me very proud. Paul Smyth is another great catch, Paul is carrying an ankle problem but should be completely fit for the start of the season, fingers crossed. Peter Kana is another player I think you will all see scoring regular with his pace and power. Alan(monster)Griffiths and when you see him your know why he is known as monster, will provide stiff competition, as will Ryan Baptitse who has got to be the fastest player I've ever seen. Ahmed Elamir is a very skilful left sided player who again will fit in well. Jason McCarthy is a right sided midfielder who again will be looking to play regular Football. We are looking extremely strong at the moment, I would go as far as to say that as a Manager I have not felt this confident going into a new season as I do at the moment. We have some quality players at the Manor and expectations of success will be high. I have also recently signed Danny Hunt a big strong centre forward but Danny has a twisted ankle and could be out of action for a couple more weeks. There is another super signing that has made me very proud, but all will be announced soon.

Best Wishes - Kirk