Season 2006/2007 Match Report

TUESDAY 8TH MAY 2007 UCC vs. OUTWOOD COMMON (H) DIV 1

In UCC’s final game of the season after the Southminster cancellation, title chasers Outwood Common made the trip to the switched venue at Witham. Having come from behind to beat Outwood Common 3-2 just two weeks ago, this time UCC were to go down 4-1 losers.

With the late change of venue and overcast evening, the game was shortened to 35 minutes each way by agreement of the referee and the two clubs.

Shooting downhill in the first half, Outwood Common enjoyed the territorial advantage and were first on the score sheet. A kick from the goalie bypassed the UCC midfield after a couple of missed interventions which isolated centre-back Martin Jones with the big Outwood Common forward who was to prove the difference between the teams on the night. Running onto the ball in the corner of the penalty box he hit a powerful and clinical shot into the far corner to put Common 1-0 up.

A second goal followed shortly from a corner kick. A midfield runner was simply unmarked and beat ‘keeper Turrell from close range with a headed effort.

UCC had looked to pass the ball around and press Outwood common when in possession, typified by David Kingham and Bauke van der Meer chasing down seemingly lost causes. This work rate resulted in some good attacking situations and a number of corners, the later from which UCC were to draw a goal back.

Forward Ben Allen took a corner from the right side which was flicked on to Andy Moore on the far left side. Andy showed skill and composer to swing the ball back into the danger area where Tom Westhead’s flick found Ben unmarked at the far post where he was able to drill the ball into the far corner on the half-volley.

A solid half from UCC had left them well in the game at 2-1 down, shooting downhill in the second period.

The goal that was to put the game beyond UCC came in stunning fashion. The Outwood Common striker gathered the ball from 30 yards and struck a sweet shot for his second and Outwood Common’s third.

A superb last ditch block from midfielder Matthew Jones prevented a near certain goal as he threw himself at the ball just 3 yards from the UCC goal.

UCC had chances to put pressure on title-chasing Common but couldn’t find the back of the net. Playing through the pain barrier, centre-back Joe Waller had an improvised effort on goal tipped over the bar by the ‘keeper after a scramble from another corner. UCC’s other chance of the half fell to striker John de Lacy after good work from Andy Moore had fed Ben Allen who played through de Lacy who’s effort whistled over the bar.

Outwood Common’s striker then completed a fine hat-trick. Dave Turrell came out of goal to collect a long ball up-field but was beaten to the ball by the striker who took it round Dave to the left side of the penalty area. From a tight angle and still from some distance he managed to control a powerful shot into the goal beating the covering defenders.

A harsh score-line on UCC considering a solid performance from a bare-bones squad in the concluding game of the season.

UCC: D Turrell, T Westhead, J Waller, Martin Jones, R Monk, D Kingham, B van der Meer, Matt Jones, A Moore, B Allen (capt), J de Lacy.

Man of the Match: ANDY MOORE

Goals: Ben Allen

SATURDAY 28TH APRIL 2007 UCC vs. WELCOME FC (H) DIV 1

Saturday saw UCC playing host to table-toppers Welcome FC who had narrowly won the reserve fixture back in September last year. An efficient performance from Welcome FC saw them stroll to a 4-0 victory. With the squad ravaged by injuries, the home side had only the bare eleven available to start the game, again played in glorious sunshine and barmy temperatures.

In the first half UCC produced some good attacking possession but failed to create a meaningful effort on goal. Welcome however managed several attempts and despite some great blocks by the patched-up defence and some saves from ‘keeper Dave Turrell, UCC were 2-0 down at half-time. A close range effort and a volley from distance doing the damage.

The second half saw a similar pattern of play, UCC’s attacks being fragmented by sloppy passing and some tired legs. Marc Ryan showed there to be plenty of gas left in his tank, making several surging runs forward, on one occasion breaking through the Welcome defence only to be tackled by the goalie. UCC’s best chance came from a corner, delivered by Ben Allen leaving Tom Westhead with a free header at goal, which wasn’t converted.

Overall a disappointing performance in a somewhat meaningless encounter for UCC, despite some real bright spots in performances from Martin Jones and Marc Ryan at centre-back and midfielder Andy Moore, growing in stature with each passing game.

UCC: D Turrell, T Westhead, Martin Jones, M Ryan, R Monk, S Wright, Matt Jones, B van der Meer, A Moore, B Allen, J de Lacy

Man of the Match: MARTIN JONES

TUESDAY 24TH APRIL 2007 OUTWOOD COMMON vs. UCC (A) DIV 1

UCC looked to bounce back from their first league defeat of '07 in a mid-week league fixture that took them away to promotion hopefulls Outwood Common F.C. A tight, competetive encounter echoed the nights other match, Man Utd v A.C Milan Champions League Semi, and ended 3-2 with a late winner in UCC's favour.

The match started on a pitch that bordered on the dangerous, badly rutted and uneven through out. Both teams set out to play football though and dealt well with the under foot conditions. UCC started the brighter linking well from midfield to attack and began to look for a way though. The deadlock was broken early on as a Sean Wright corner was swung into the danger zone and Simon Hanover rose and met the ball planting a powerfull header low through the 'keepers legs into the back of the net, for a great start in UCC's favour.

UCC nearly doubled their lead soon after as Sean Wright latched onto a well timed Bauke van der Meer through ball and rattled the far post from 10 yards only to see the ball canon out and avoid the opposite post before reaching safety at a defenders feet.

Outwood Common then started to seize opportunities as their hard working frontline caused problems. A freekick awarded for a mis-timed tackle saw the ball delivered dangerously into the box from the right side and a flick from the melee of players sent the ball flying into the net with little that could be done to prevent it. 1-1

The second half saw Outwood Common look to take all 3 points but UCC once again started sharply. Ben Allen was denied from 10 yards as the Common Goalie showed incredible reactions to stick a leg out and prevent a near certain goal.

Common then produced a great passage of football as they played intricate passes into space working the ball from the halfway line into the UCC box between a number of their players. The Outwood striker left Dave Turrell with no chance as he tucked the ball into the far corner from 10yards to give them the lead. 2-1

UCC responded to this and started to play the ball around through out the team. The sharp Ben Allen showed great skill to twist and turn past the covering defender who could only stop his progress by bringing him down on the edge of the box in the left hand corner.

The ball was swung in dangerously and Tom Westhead rose well to guide his flick to the back post where John de Lacy reacted quicker than the defender on the post to reach the ball first and knee the ball into the net from a yard. 2-2

The game then went too and frow as some good football was countered with strong defending. Late on the match appeared to be heading for a draw when John de Lacy challenged for a high ball heading into the opponents half. Ben Allen reacted quickest to the aerial ball and reached it first head the ball and release de Lacy in on goal. From a wide angle John drove the ball into the far corner of the net to complete the UCC recovery.

The remainder of the game saw Outwood Common push for an equaliser but UCC held strong.

The final minutes of a good competetive football match were marred somewhat by a Common player verbally abusing a number of UCC players. This continued for a period of 5 or so minutes after the match. The individual's behaviour was out of context with the rest of the Outwood Common team who showed grace in defeat.

The ref was excellent controlling a competetive match with minimum fuss.

UCC: D Turrell, M Woodyard (Martin Jones), S Hanover, M Ryan, T Westhead, S Wright, Matt Jones, B van der Meer, A Moore (J Martin), B Allen(capt.), J de Lacy.

Man of the Match: SIMON HANOVER

Goals: Simon Hanover, John de Lacy 2

SATURDAY 21ST APRIL 2007 SCOTIA BILLERICAY vs. UCC (A) DIV 1

UCC travelled to league favourites Scotia Billericay who had also reached three cup finals this season, including the league cup which they had been unfortunate to lose on Thursday evening. A very tight game went Scotia’s way as result of a late and controversial penalty, winning the game 2-1.

On another warm afternoon both teams coped well with the blazing sunshine and the hard-baked pitch.

UCC had the best of the chances during the first half. Striker Ben Allen released winger Bauke van der Meer down the left wing who swung over a brilliant cross to the far post, unfortunately Dan Blake’s header was wide of the mark.

The opening goal came for UCC mid-way through the first half, scored by winger Dan Blake making his first start since returning from an injury sustained in late January. Striker John de Lacy was the provider, turning on the half-way line to play in Dan running down the right. Dan showed tremendous pace and balance to get to the ball first and take it on towards goal. He then shot right-footed into the top left corner of the net for a classy finish and to put UCC 1-0 up.

The home side hit back immediately however. A long range effort was hit powerfully and only parried by ‘keeper Dave Turrell and was followed up sharply by a Scotia player to tap home to level things up at half-time.

Winger Bauke van der Meer then had a glorious opportunity when Joe Waller sent him through one-on-one, only for his attempted lob to sail over the bar. Bauke was later cautioned for showing dissent after a series of throw-in decisions not going UCC’s way.

The Billericay ‘keeper was then at his best to prevent a de Lacy effort from putting UCC ahead. De Lacy was through on goal and struck a powerful shot across goal which was superbly blocked by the ‘keeper.

The second half saw Scotia create a few more chances, a bad miss and a couple of huge saves from Turrell kept UCC well in the hunt for an impressive win. Matt Jones in particular was commanding in the centre of the pitch, braking up Scotia’s attacks and providing service to the front men and wingers. The UCC defence of Westhead, Hanover, Sheldon and Ryan looking increasingly solid, containing some talented Scotia players impressively.

The chances were beginning to dry up for both teams. Only the lively Andy Moore’s introduction from the subs bench seemed to offer UCC a chance of creating a second goal. The other second half substitution saw Alex Chamberlain replace Dan Blake on the right side of midfield.

The decisive point of the game came in devastating circumstances for UCC as the referee made a disappointing decision to award Scotia a late penalty for handball against centre-back Simon Hanover, despite little appeal from the Scotia players and the obvious disbelief from the UCC ranks, the referee pointed to the spot. The penalty was duly dispatched into the left side of the goal to put Scotia 2-1 up.

UCC continued to press and play the ball around well, but Scotia were solid at the back and held out for the narrowest of wins.

A superb effort from all the UCC players and staff, this week not getting the result the performance warranted, UCC’s first league defeat of 2007.

UCC: D Turrell, T Westhead, S Hanover, D Sheldon, M Ryan, D Blake(A Chamberlain), J Waller (A Moore), Matt Jones, B van der Meer , B Allen, J de Lacy. Sub: Martin Jones

Man of the Match: MATT JONES

Goal: D Blake

SATURDAY 14TH APRIL 2007 UCC vs. BOUNDARY FC DIV 1 HOME

UCC resumed league buisness after a week off over Easter looking to extend the club record league unbeaten run to nine games. The last league defeat for the club was way back in November 06 away at Springfield Rouge. The obstacle to negotiate was a home tie to consistant division 1 outfit Boundary F.C who in the two previous meetings of the season, one in the divisional cup, had seen the clubs share 2-2 draws in both matches.

The weather was warm and the pitch hard but was conducive to attacking football and pace, promising an exciting match. UCC welcomed back to the bench Dan Blake who had returned from 3 months out after ankle ligament damage, a lift to the club to receive a pacey winger back at such a stage in the season. The match started and UCC looked bright and lively from the off in attack.

Positive early possesion saw them push Boundary onto the back foot and the opposition keeper showed he was alert from the start by repelling two efforts ontarget that the defenders managed to clear at the third attempt. UCC continued the good link up play and were probing down both flanks pushing Boundary back towards their goal. It was however through a huge goalkeeper's kick that the first goal came.

Dave Turrell again showed his threat from ball in hand by punting down the middle off the field. The ball bounced once and striker John de Lacy held off the centre back to bring the ball under control and then fire low past the keeper from 10 yards to see UCC crown a very positive start with a goal on 7 minutes.

Soon after UCC forced a couple of corners and looked to impose themselves further on the opposition who were reeling from the opening exchanges. The tide of attack soon turned however as Boundary began to pressure an unsure UCC defence who struggled to deal with speculative long balls. The indecision and poor shape and communication soon showed UCC's frailties and Boundary needed no second invitation to exploit this weakness. They began to play long balls from the back for their strikers to challenge against the UCC back line and found they could get in on goal with ease. The UCC team found their confidence broken and it soon became a case of stemming the constant wave after wave of attacks with little thought other than ball forward from the Boundary players which caused major problems every time.

It was a basic throw in from the Boundary left hand side that produced the inevitable leveller. The ball was launched into the box and a striker had time and freedom to control the ball, turn with it past a marker and find himself open in front of goal from 5 yards. He duly hit the ball low into the near post corner past an exposed, somewhat shocked Goalkeeper on 23 minutes.

UCC then had to reshuffle as soon after as centre back Joe Waller was hurt in a tackle and could not continue. Dan Blake took the pitch for his anticipated return to the club. The back line was then reshuffled with a new centre back and two new full backs looking to reduce the defensive frailties.

The remaining 20 minutes of the half improved little with UCC's attacks now dried up completely and a continuation of the defense versus attack that saw Boundary looking to captilise on their opponents seeming unprovoked calamaties. Half time was a real saviour for UCC and so was the somewhat gift of a shared scoreline.

In the second half UCC looked to improve on the first half performance and take the intiative that had been so weakly lost after the first 15 minutes of the match.

Within 5 minutes it was clear the undefeated run was no fluke. UCC again looked imposing in possesion, concentrated and clinical in defence and sharp through out the team. A real, real testament to the players attitudes in transforming that first half display into the real never say die, honest mentality that each player had shown since the turn of the year.

The back line looked much more commanding and began to provide a base and confidence for the midfield to start the attacks and help UCC once again threaten the opposition. The Boundary attackers were now forced into thinking much more about how they created their chances and soon the balls hit straight up front began to prove fruitless.

The half saw UCC's tempo and link play return but the game as a contest remained tight with little between the sides to seperate them, as the previous two results between the teams had proved. Boundary thought they had grabbed a winner late on in the match as the otherwise faultless Dave Turrell saw a goal kick scuff to a retreating Boundary attacker who in fairness did well to control the ball and run in and lob the ball into the net over a defenseless keepers head. Que the celebrations that in such a tight game could be forgiven for mistaking as a winning goal on 80 minutes.

You do not go unbeaten in 9 matches for nothing though and the body language of UCC players including keeper' Turrell showed a positivity and belief that the contest was not over even in those circumstances. A complete turn around from the first half attitude! From the kick off Sub winger Josh Martin took control of possesion on the left wing and slid the ball inside to midfielder Bauke van der Meer. Bauke then fed the ball deep into the right corner and Dan Blake showed willingness and belief to force the Boundary defender to put the ball out. The resulting throw in was flung into a crowded box and half cleared but the second ball was fed back into the danger zone and fell to Ben Allen who controlled cooly and teed up equally unmarked partner de Lacy 10 yards out, who fired the ball past a helpless keeper inside the near post left footed, on 83 minutes. 2-2.

There was still time, as this level of football has shown us heart breakingly before, for a winner. At any time during the 90 minutes of the match mis-concentration or a slight relaxing of effort can be punished. A Boundary striker took possesion on the edge of the box and waltzed past a couple of half-hearted tackles to find shooting opportunity at close range, mercifully for UCC he hit the inside of the far post and the ball came out, rebounding to a Boundary player on the edge of the penalty area but he could not finish summing up the oppositions frustration through out the match. A heart in mouth let off for an otherwise accomplished UCC defensive second half performance. The match, as the previous two, again finished 2-2 with nothing seperating the team. The point was well earned in the over view of the whole match and has secured the clubs division 1 status for next season.

A fantastic achievement for the club to remain undefeated in 9 consecutive league matches in it's second season in the league and one that could reach double figures with a result at Scotia Billericay the following weekend.

UCC: D Turrell, T Westhead, M Woodyard, J Waller(D Blake), M Ryan, S Wright, Matthew Jones, B van der Meer, A Moore (J Martin), B Allen (capt.), J de Lacy

Man of the Match: MARC RYAN

Goals: John de Lacy 2

SATURDAY 31ST MARCH 2007 STOCK vs. UCC DIV 1 (A)

UCC travelled away to rivals Stock United on Saturday and came away with all three points after winning 3-2.

Playing against the wind in the first half UCC battled well to share possession and territory evenly with the home side.

It was Stock who took the lead as an attacker got free on the right hand side of the penalty box and crossed. The cross was met by a poorly hit shot which went into the ground and bounced over a flailing Dave Turrell and under the bar.

After a slow start the goal woke the UCC side into life and it wasn’t long before they were on terms. Good defending by full-back Mark Woodyard released the ball to forward Ben Allen who curled a ball round the back of the defence. Striker John de Lacy managed to win the ball before beating two defenders and slotting the ball home for a well composed finish.

The UCC defence were looking increasingly solid, dealing excellently with a series of Stock corners, and reducing the home team to long range efforts which were dealt with well by ‘keeper Dave Turrell.

Great work from both wingers; Sean Wright and Andy Moore, meant UCC looked the most likely to score the next goal. One fabulous cross from Andy Moore’s left foot was just too high for the strikers to get a head to. Sure enough though, the goal came, and right on the stroke of half time. A long pass from ‘keeper Turrell found Ben Allen in space in the centre circle. He released Sean Wright down the right wing who then played in Ben on the edge of the box. Ben controlled and shot into the far corner of the net despite the ‘keeper getting finger tips to the ball.

The second half saw the centre midfielders begin to dominate but UCC were struggling to find another goal up front. UCC’s failure to push on saw Stock grow in confidence and they eventually found a second goal to equalise.

Stock’s number 8, a menace all game, managed to wriggle free of the defence with a question over a possible hand ball, but finished superbly well to make it 2-2.

UCC responded by re-taking the lead with 15 minutes to go. Tom Westhead, excellent all game, put in a corner from the right side which was met by Joe Waller at the far post who beat his marker to head in the winning goal.

As Stock became increasingly physical, and the referee decided to turn a blind eye, UCC controlled the closing stages and proved the fitter of the two sides, thanks in no small way to the returning Bauke van der Meer who came on in the second half.

A deserved victory meaning UCC have taken all six points off Stock and continued their unbeaten run in the league.

UCC: D Turrell, M Woodyard, S Hanover, J Waller, M Ryan, S Wright, T Westhead, Matt Jones, A Moore (B van der Meer), B Allen (capt), J de Lacy. Subs: Martin Jones, D Sheldon.

Man of the Match: TOM WESTHEAD

Goals: John de Lacy, Ben Allen, Joe Waller 

SATURDAY 25TH MARCH 2007 BOUNDARY vs. UCC; DIV 1 (A)

UCC maintained their unbeaten run in the league as they earned a battling point away to Boundary of Orset. Despite UCC taking the lead twice, Boundary were to equalise with just a couple of minutes to go and the game finished 2-2.

With a number of injuries and absentees, UCC had an unfamiliar line-up to recent weeks but still managed a good performance to continue the clubs progress in the league.

Playing against the wind in the first half UCC coped well despite Boundary dominating territorially. Despite several dangerous moments the home side were unable to break down the UCC defence and create a clear-cut chance.

The first attempt at goal for UCC saw manager John de Lacy unleash a fearsome half-volley from 25 yards which just caught the wind and drifted a foot wide of the top right corner of the goal.

UCC continued to look dangerous on the break and soon scored a goal of devastating pace. Having defended a Boundary attack winger Sean Wright carried the ball out of defence and fed de Lacy on the half way line. De Lacy powered forward and played in strike partner Ben Allen down the left channel. Ben cut inside the defender into a central position and then shot early into the far right corner from 20 yards with the goalie hopelessly out of position.

The lead wasn’t to last long however as the Boundary left back scored a wonder goal. Striker Ben Allen was caught in possession in midfield and then defender Mark Woodyard missed his tackle to leave the left back through down the left wing. From a crossing position 35 yards from goal he let fly a thunderous bullet shot which went over the outstretched Dave Turrell and dipped under the bar into the centre of the goal.

The second half saw the wind drop and consequently decrease the potential advantage to UCC. As the half wore on Boundary were increasingly dominant, creating but not taking their chances. Several shots blazed high and wide and one Schmeichel-esque block/save from ‘keeper Turrell after a scramble saw Boundary frustrated and UCC sniffing all three points.

On another quick break, John de Lacy drove forward to play in Ben Allen who las then dragged back by the last defender on the edge of the area only for the referee to give an astonishing offside decision. Boundary’s failure to provide a capable and willing assistant was to cost UCC on more than one occasion.

With 8 minutes to go UCC took the lead for the second time. Striker de Lacy broke free down the right channel and had his shot saved, Sean Wright followed up and his shot was blocked on the line, de Lacy then got to the ball first and went round a defender who attempted to trip him. With the advantage lost the referee pointed to the spot. De Lacy stepped up and dispatched the ball into the corner to put UCC 2-1 up.

Another wrong offside decision ruled out a de Lacy goal after he had ran through and rounded the keeper.

UCC were unable to hold out however as Boundary won a very dubious free kick on the corner of the penalty box. The ball was delivered to the far post where an attacker was able to control the ball on his chest, turn and blast the ball into the roof of the net.

Despite being just minutes away from a win, the draw was still a good result for UCC when accounting for the balance of play throughout the game. The result keeps UCC ahead of Boundary in the table and preserves the undefeated league record in 2007.

UCC: D Turrell, M Woodyard, D Sheldon, M Ryan, I Gregory-Smith, S Wright, T Westhead, Matt Jones, A Chamberlain (Martin Jones), B Allen (capt.), J de Lacy.

Man of the Match: BEN ALLEN

Goals: Ben Allen, J de Lacy (pen)

SATURDAY 17TH MARCH 2007 UCC vs. SILVER END, DIV 1 HOME

UCC entertained Silver End at Chancellor Park, a team placed second in the league and through to the league cup final. Having lost out in the semis, UCC put things right in the league running out comfortable 3-0 winners.

In a very even first half, chances were few and far between and the battle was played out in midfield. Silver End came closest to opening the scoring when a speculative effort from distance hit the post. Another long-range effort was brilliantly struck but was straight at ‘keeper Dave Turrell who saved comfortably.

A persistent back injury forced striker David Kingham off after just 30 minutes, making way for the returning Ben Allen, having been out injured for the past 9 months.

The best opening of the half for UCC was provided by young winger Josh Martin who won the ball and released Ben Allen down the left channel but could only shoot tamely.

The second half saw a continued excellent team display from UCC and soon this was to be rewarded by goals. Joe Waller was first on the score sheet, with a first time finish from close range. Josh martin took a throw-in deep in Silver End’s half on the left wing to John de Lacy who worked the ball into the box where Joe Waller was on hand to provide the finish.

UCC were relatively untroubled at the back with all four defenders looking in top form and solid as a unit. Going forward UCC continued to be a threat and soon they had the ball in the net again. Good closing down from Ben Allen gifted the ball to right winger Sean Wright who provided a quality ball over the top for de Lacy to run onto. One-on-one de lacy made no mistake in putting the ball past the ‘keeper for a 2-0 lead.

UCC continued to get numbers forward in order to put the game to bed and did so with a third goal with 20 minutes to go. John de Lacy had the ball down the left wing and played a back-heel to the overlapping Marc Ryan who cut inside and played a square pass to striker Ben Allen who passed the ball into the left hand corner from 6 yards.

Troubled by his groin muscles, Josh Martin was replaced by Andy Moore out on the left who provided some good passes to the forwards.

Silver End upped the pressure in the closing stages but the outstanding defence of Nick Gough, Joe Waller, Dave Sheldon, and Marc Ryan were dominant in the air and on the ground, also well shielded by centre midfielders Tom Westhead and Matt Jones.

John de Lacy nearly made it four near the end but for a fantastic save from the Silver End goalie. More good work from Sean Wight provided Ben Allen with the ball who released de Lacy who beat the ‘keeper to the ball and looked to lift the ball over him but he somehow managed to get a hand to the ball as he came rushing out.

An overall outstanding performance and result which means UCC have taken 14 of the last 18 points available in the league.

UCC: D Turrell, N Gough, J Waller, D Sheldon, M Ryan, S Wright, Matt Jones, T Westhead, J Martin (A Moore), D Kingham (B Allen), J de Lacy.

Man of the Match: DAVE SHELDON

SATURDAY 17TH MARCH 2007 UCC vs. SILVER END, DIV 1 HOME

UCC entertained Silver End at Chancellor Park, a team placed second in the league and through to the league cup final. Having lost out in the semis, UCC put things right in the league running out comfortable 3-0 winners.

In a very even first half, chances were few and far between and the battle was played out in midfield. Silver End came closest to opening the scoring when a speculative effort from distance hit the post. Another long-range effort was brilliantly struck but was straight at ‘keeper Dave Turrell who saved comfortably.

A persistent back injury forced striker David Kingham off after just 30 minutes, making way for the returning Ben Allen, having been out injured for the past 9 months.

The best opening of the half for UCC was provided by young winger Josh Martin who won the ball and released Ben Allen down the left channel but could only shoot tamely.

The second half saw a continued excellent team display from UCC and soon this was to be rewarded by goals. Joe Waller was first on the score sheet, with a first time finish from close range. Josh martin took a throw-in deep in Silver End’s half on the left wing to John de Lacy who worked the ball into the box where Joe Waller was on hand to provide the finish.

UCC were relatively untroubled at the back with all four defenders looking in top form and solid as a unit. Going forward UCC continued to be a threat and soon they had the ball in the net again. Good closing down from Ben Allen gifted the ball to right winger Sean Wright who provided a quality ball over the top for de Lacy to run onto. One-on-one de lacy made no mistake in putting the ball past the ‘keeper for a 2-0 lead.

UCC continued to get numbers forward in order to put the game to bed and did so with a third goal with 20 minutes to go. John de Lacy had the ball down the left wing and played a back-heel to the overlapping Marc Ryan who cut inside and played a square pass to striker Ben Allen who passed the ball into the left hand corner from 6 yards.

Troubled by his groin muscles, Josh Martin was replaced by Andy Moore out on the left who provided some good passes to the forwards.

Silver End upped the pressure in the closing stages but the outstanding defence of Nick Gough, Joe Waller, Dave Sheldon, and Marc Ryan were dominant in the air and on the ground, also well shielded by centre midfielders Tom Westhead and Matt Jones.

John de Lacy nearly made it four near the end but for a fantastic save from the Silver End goalie. More good work from Sean Wight provided Ben Allen with the ball who released de Lacy who beat the ‘keeper to the ball and looked to lift the ball over him but he somehow managed to get a hand to the ball as he came rushing out.

An overall outstanding performance and result which means UCC have taken 14 of the last 18 points available in the league.

UCC: D Turrell, N Gough, J Waller, D Sheldon, M Ryan, S Wright, Matt Jones, T Westhead, J Martin (A Moore), D Kingham (B Allen), J de Lacy.

Man of the Match: DAVE SHELDON

SATURDAY 10TH MARCH 2007 UCC vs. GALLABRIGHT DIV 1 (H)

UCC picked up a hard fought point at home to a resurgent and very useful Gallabright side. The opposition had taken points off the top two teams in the league in recent weeks and showed some real class throughout the match.

Gallabright dominated the opening exchanges as UCC tried to play themselves into the game.

The opening goal went to the away side on 25 minutes just as UCC were beginning to assert themselves. Marc Ryan was dispossessed on the half way line as Gallabright pressed forward in numbers. One attacker was released down the right channel who ran through and squared the ball into a central position 18 yards out. Despite taking several touches to settle himself, the attacker had time to get his shot away which took a horrific bobble over the outstretched Dave Turrell in goal to find the bottom left corner of the net.

UCC were losing their heads and struggling to find any focus or rhythm going forward but were thrown a much needed lifeline on the stroke of half-time. A long and high kick from Dave Turrell was poorly dealt with by the otherwise organised Gallabright defence, with striker John de Lacy challenging for the ball. His initial shot was saved but right-winger Sean Wright was on hand to tap home for his first goal for the club to put UCC back on terms at 1-1.

In-form striker David Kingham was suffering with a stiff back and so was replaced at half time by his step-brother; debutant Ant Carey, Ant playing left midfield and Josh Martin pushing up front to partner de Lacy.

The second half saw UCC increase their confidence and sharpness, all stemming from a truly dominant performance from the defence of Ryan, Hanover, Waller and Woodley, keeping some tricky players relatively quite. ‘Keeper Dave Turrell having only a couple of well-struck but long-range efforts to deal with.

John de Lacy had the ball in the back of the net on 50 minutes only for the assistant to rule it out for offside. Gallabright had cleared an initial cross and failed to step up before a second was delivered to de Lacy who controlled and finished neatly. A hugely debatable decision had cost UCC the lead. 

A corner to Gallabright saw them take the lead. Swung over from the right, their tall centre back was unchallenged at the far post to head back across goal and into the net.

UCC continued to up the work rate in search of the second equaliser and with 15 minutes left it deservedly came. A Tom Westhead corner was cleared from the near post, only to come back to Tom who faked to cross and laid the ball back to Matt Jones who whipped in a top quality cross with his left foot. Remaining up from the corner was captain Hanover who finished superbly into the top corner from 10 yards to make it two goals in two weeks for the skipper.

The remaining minutes saw the introduction of substitutes Martin Jones at right back and Andy Moore in midfield who both did well.

Both teams looked for a winner but as the final whistle blew the draw seemed the fairest result.

UCC: D Turrell, W Woodley (Martin Jones), S Hanover (capt.), J Waller, M Ryan, S Wright, T Westhead, Matt Jones, J Martin (A Moore), D Kingham (A Carey), J de Lacy.

Goals: Sean Wright, Simon Hanover

Man of the Match: MATT JONES

SATURDAY 3RD MARCH 2007 BOREHAM vs UCC DIV 1 AWAY

Saturday saw UCC looking to make it 4 league wins in a row as they travelled away to Boreham. The pitch although soft on top was playable despite the prior evenings heavy rain.

UCC started brightly and good opening work from Tom Westhead and Sean Wright saw UCC gather ground but with no real goal scoring opportunities in first 15mins.

Boreham then began to get to grips with the conditions and began to up the work rate in the central areas of the pitch.

The first goal came somewhat against the run of possession. Left back Marc Ryan received possession 20yards from UCC's goal and looked to play a square ball to a defensive team mate. The ball was unfortunately picked up by a Boreham attacker who ran towards goal, he shot under challenge and the ball deflected off of the recovering Marc Ryan and found its way into the bottom left hand corner of the goal past the diving Dave Turrell. An unfortunate own goal.

This then saw momentum swing as UCC were losing out all over the field as Boreham took their cue to pressure the UCC possession and send the ball forward to their lively attacker.

Although UCC managed a couple of corners and shots none really troubled the Boreham goal. H.T 1-0

The second half saw UCC look to improve their play. Again there was some endeavour but little quality of link play between a very stretched unit. Boreham were again the more fluid in possession and were able to get the ball in the box with attacking players supporting. This pressure soon paid as they forced a series of corners. UCC never convincingly cleared the danger and the ball was returned into the mass of players eventually falling to an attacker who finished from a central position 10 yards out. 2-0.

UCC continued to struggle to find fluency but remained a threat through striker David Kingham. On the hour UCC believed they had found a way back into the match. David picked the ball up from a flicked header and from 20 yards out wide on the right hit a brilliant shot that the opposition keeper somehow got a hand to enough to send it on to the crossbar and then the post bouncing down on the line and then coming out.

This gave UCC hope. From there they began to communicate and drive forward together in search of goals. Shortly after this a goal finally came from a corner via the always dangerous David Kingham. The ball was swung into the box and fell to David 7 yards out who struck the shot low past the goalkeeper into the left hand side of the goal. 2-1

UCC were then refreshed as Andy Moore, Josh Martin and Dave Sheldon entered the match. UCC now took control of the game and looked to find the equaliser. However some bad finishing from striker John de Lacy saw chances go begging as the time dragged on. Credit to UCC for persisting and at last the goal came. Good work down the left hand side from Bauke van der Meer saw Josh Martin released into space deep in the opposition half, he showed good composure and quality delivery to cross a dangerous ball into the box. After eluding nearly every player in the box the Captain, Simon Hanover arrived right on time to find the net from 5 yards out at the back post.2-2.

The remaining 5 minutes of the match soon went as neither team could get back any rhythm. Dave Turrell made one good stop at the end to prove the hard work getting back was not wasted.

A good last 30 minutes gave UCC a point from a possible defeat and set the tone for coming matches.

JD 

UCC: D Turrell, T Westhead, S Hanover (Capt.), J Waller, M Ryan, S Wright (D Sheldon), W Woodley (A Moore), Matt Jones, B van der Meer, D Kingham (J Martin), J De Lacy. Sub not used: Martin Jones.

Man of the Match: SIMON HANOVER

Goals: David Kingham, Simon Hanover

SATURDAY 24TH FEBRUARY 2007 UCC vs. STOCK UNITED DIV 1

After some persistently inclement weather during the past week, fortress Chancellor Park was rightly deemed unplayable by the referee, and so at last minute this vital game at the foot of the table was switched to Stock’s home pitch, only delaying kick-off by 20 minutes.

The change of venue did not affect UCC who started in confident mood and in truth controlled the game throughout. The first effort came from a Bauke van der Meer cross, met at the far post by the head of winger Tom Westhead, only for the ball to creep the wrong side of the post.

With 15 minutes gone Stock could hold out no longer and went behind in unfortunate circumstances. After struggling to get a grip on the central midfield area Wes Woodley, back after five weeks injured, and Matt Jones, began to take control,

Matt Jones opens his UCC account

A second goal wasn’t long coming and was scored by goal-machine John De Lacy. More good work down the left from Bauke and Matt feed the ball into the six yard box where a Stock defender failed to clear under pressure from De Lacy. John found the space to fire the ball into the net for 2-0, the goalie with no chance.

Soon after David Kingham's terrific work-rate was to be rewarded with a poacher’s goal. The ball had fallen to Matt Jones 25 yards from goal who struck the ball towards goal, with Matt’s shot probably going wide David was on hand to turn the ball past the ‘keeper from close range.

Goalscorer Marc Ryan

The bedraggled Stock  side then managed to score a goal to seemingly hand them a lifeline. A cross found its way into the box from the left and the attacker was allowed far too much space 10 yards from goal to turn and shoot past Turrell who was given no chance.

Some casual team defending caused the need for some vital blocks from Captain Hanover, Sean Wright and Matt Jones, despite Stock having no cutting edge or fluency in possession.

UCC’s passing and attacking however was full of fluency and intent, and that soon brought about further goals. Some positive runs from centre-backs Joe Waller and Simon Hanover continued to put Stock under pressure. Left-back Marc Ryan was next on the score sheet after striker David Kingham had won a brave and crucial header to allow van der Meer to unleash a pile driver that was half blocked and looped goal wards and headed in by Marc to make it 4-1.

Half time and UCC were 4-1 up.

The intensity of the first half was lost initially as UCC became over-complicated and casual in their play. However a stunning free-kick from manager De Lacy regained some of the focus for the ‘home’ side. 25 yards from goal a right-foot curler was met by a combination of the crossbar and the Stock goalkeeper before bouncing down over the goal-line.

UCC were now in cruise control, knocking the ball about confidently and finding space to exploit all over the pitch. The strength in depth of the squad was to show its benefit as the manager introduced substitutes, Dave Sheldon, Richard Monk and debutant Andy Moore who slotted into a right midfield position.

The substitutes added some much needed energy to the proceedings but it was the tireless Matt Jones who

'Three-lungs' Bauke van der Meer

Agonisingly Andy Moore’s shot from the right hand side of the goal struck the post and away to safety as he looked for a debut goal.

UCC continued to punish Stock, with Bauke van der Meer in particular showing a tremendous appetite to continue to attack, and demonstrating some sublime skills. Joe Waller was the provider for the 7th and final UCC goal, crossing from the left hand corner area, the ball eventually falling to David Kingham in the penalty box who swivelled and hit a well placed half volley into the far corner from 10 yards out.

Overall a fine performance from the whole team and emphatically earning the right result to continue UCC’s rise up the table.

UCC: D Turrell, S Wright (D Sheldon), S Hanover (Capt.), J Waller, M Ryan (R Monk), T Westhead, W Woodley (A Moore), Matt Jones, B van der Meer, D Kingham, J De Lacy Subs not used: Martin Jones

Man of the Match: MATT JONES

Goals: Matt Jones 2, John De Lacy 2, David Kingham 2, Marc Ryan

SATURDAY 3RD FEBRUARY 2007 UCC vs. SILVER END DIV 1 CUP SF

Joe wins another header

UCC’s league cup run came to a disappointing end after a 2-0 defeat to league leaders Silver End.

Silver End made a flying start to the game producing three or four attempts at goal in the opening five minutes. The closest they came to scoring came from a long ball over the top, the Silver End forward latching onto it and shooting early, only to hit the outside of the post.

UCC couldn’t quite weather the early storm as the visitors took the lead on 7 minutes. After working the ball down left side, the ball was played into a forward on the edge of the box,

Mark Woodyard

The goal seemed to spark UCC into life as the home side began to get to grips with the pace of the game. New partnership in central midfield of Hanover and van der Meer starting to even out the so far one sided contest. However UCC again lacked any cutting edge going forward and so went into the interval 1-0 down not having really threatened.

The second half began and immediately Silver End scored a fatal goal for UCC, to go 2-0 up. Again failing to deal with a straight long ball over the top, a Silver End attacker ran on to the ball and finished well, leaving Turrell no chance.

Joe Waller

UCC pushed forward trying to get back into the game, inevitably leaving gaps at the back which were in the large filled by the outstanding Joe Waller. Silver End very nearly scored a third as thier striker took the ball round 'keeper Turrell and shot at goal only for Mark Woodyard to slide and deflect the ball onto the outside of the post for a miraculous clearance.

An very well organised Silver End side limited UCC to just a couple of half-chances, the best of which falling to striker De Lacy which went wide after some good play from van der Meer and James Archer. Josh Martin came off the bench and mixed up his front play well and caused some problems with his long throw, but UCC failed to take advantage.

Josh, John and Simon

A disappointing result to end a brave run in the cup, but UCC can take some comfort from the fact they have a lot more to give and were still only narrowly beaten by one of the strongest sides in the division.

UCC: D Turrell, M Woodyard, J Waller, D Sheldon, R Monk, T Westhead, S Hanover (Capt.), B van der Meer, J Archer, A Blowes (J Martin), J De Lacy. Subs not used: Martin Jones

Man of the Match: JOE WALLER

SATURDAY 27TH JANUARY 2007 DIV 1 ESSEX POLICE vs. UCC

Man of the Match: MARK WOODYARD

Goals: Marc Ryan, Joe Waller, Adam Blowes

SATURDAY 13TH JANUARY 2007 UCC vs. MANFORD WAY DIV1 AWAY

UCC returned to league duties on Saturday, and to winning ways as they turned on the style to outplay Manford Way away from home. The home side threatened to grab a late point as UCC began to self-destruct, but UCC held on for a 4-3 win.

Desperately needing a result to ease fears of relegation the away side began the stronger and showed great confidence in possession and dominating all over the pitch. With striker De Lacy sitting deep the UCC midfield had the running of the game.

Attacking opportunities were in good supply, thanks in part to the workrate and hold-up play of striker David Kingham, and it wasn’t long before centre-back Joe Waller took one. After a Tom Westhead corner the ball came back to UCC’s wide-man who got the better of his opponent and re-delivered the ball into the box from the left hand side. Waller met the ball on the volley, steering the ball past the ‘keepers right hand for a well-taken goal from 15 yards. Waller back in the goals in the 8th minute.

The away side continued to dominate but against the run of play Manford Way were level with a spectacular goal from distance. The big midfielder picked up the ball some 30 yards from goal and smashed it with his left foot. Aided by a strong breeze the ball flew past ‘keeper Turrell and into the top corner.

The goal gave Manford some belief, and it they dominated until half time, coming close on two occasions. Waller was adjudged to have fouled just outside the corner of the 18 yard box, with the resulting free-kick powerfully struck low to Turrell’s left, who managed to turn the ball round the post for a very sharp save. Another shot trough a crowded area was stopped on the post by Tom Westhead. Half-time 1-1.

With the hard work done, the wind was now in UCC’s favour and Manford were to discover they couldn’t live with the away side for very long.

The first real chance of the half fell to de Lacy after a long ball over the top from the defence wasn’t dealt with by Manford but UCC’s top scorer couldn’t beat the ‘keeper who made a good save one-on-one.

Not to be outdone by Manford’s first half strike, left-midfielder Bauke van der Meer showed a flash of his ability to submit his contender for goal of the season. Again UCC were enjoying sustained attacking possession when the ball was cleared out the box to the left hand side where Bauke was waiting. With a defender challenging for the ball, the Dutchman looped the ball over his head to set himself to launch an unstoppable dipping volley over the ‘keeper and into the net to put UCC 2-1 up.

UCC maintained the momentum an intensity to add two further goals. Firstly striker De Lacy added his name to the score sheet, the result of great interplay with Tom Westhead, a feature of the game throughout. A one-two released De Lacy in on goal on the right hand side from where he finished well to seemingly kill the game off at 3-1.

With 20 minutes left, young striker David Kingham was to be rewarded for his tireless work pressing the ball up front with his first goal for the club, rewarding the manager in only his second start. Kingham had shown work-rate, strength and intelligence all afternoon. This time running the length of the opponents half to put pressure on a defender it paid off, as a back pass to the ‘keeper was under-hit and fully punished with a cool finish from 10 yards.

At 4-1, UCC were comfortable, the defence of Turrell, Ryan, Hanover, Waller and Woodyard looking imperious until the slightest pressure from Manford Way left UCC rocking. The home side were being allowed time and space to play in wide areas and two converted crosses set up a nervy finale.

However, Manford had left it too late and in truth didn’t deserve anything from the game after being over-powered for long spells by a determined UCC.

The result puts UCC in a great position to move up the table quickly in the upcoming fixtures.

UCC: D Turrell, M Woodyard (D Sheldon), J Waller, S Hanover (Capt.), M Ryan, T Westhead, Matt Jones, W Woodley, B van der Meer, D Kingham, J de Lacy. Sub: Martin Jones.

Goals: Joe Waller, Bauke van der Meer, John de Lacy, David Kingham.

Man of the Match: DAVID KINGHAM

SATURDAY 6 JANUARY 2007 NATIONAL CHRISTIAN CUP vs. ST ALBANS ROMANS HOME

UCC’s new year began with a NCC tie against the team that put them out of the competition last season and again it was to go the distance. This time the score line ended 6-3 to the away side after extra-time.

After a pitch inspection by the referee decided the pitch was good enough for a true run of the ball over the majority of the pitch, aided by some sterling forking from Assistant Manager Martin Jones.

The first half saw chances for both sides, John De Lacy having a couple of efforts saved. UCC defence was playing well but needed three or four fabulous sliding tackles from centre backs Marc Ryan and Mark Woodyard.

However, a momentary lapse cost UCC dear as the Romans Captain rounded a couple of weak challenges to slot home for a 1-0 advantage at half-time.

In the second half UCC stuck to playing passing football and began to dominate the ball in the centre of midfield, Wes Woodley showing some great skills and Matt Jones consistent in his tacking and passing. The dominance bore fruit on the hour mark with John De Lacy beating the ‘keeper from 15 yards on the left, the ball agonisingly finding the net through the mud.

UCC continued to push forward and took the lead after a through ball was knocked over the top, De Lacy getting to the ball first and steering the ball into the net from a central position.

UCC couldn’t hold out as Romans played some excellent football to get themselves back into the game. Dave Turrell continued his excellent season with a couple of one-on-one saves with his feet but couldn’t quite keep out another as in the difficult conditions his parry was finished on the goal line by another attacker.

Both teams had one last chance to win in at the end of normal time, De Lacy putting one wide, and Turrell pulling out another fine save from close range.

And so it needed the extra-time to separate two very even teams. Disappointingly the crucial breakthrough in added time came for St Albans in soft a manner. A miss-directed clearance was hit into the UCC penalty area where the attacker was allowed time and space to turn and fire into the corner.

As UCC pushed for an equaliser in the second added period, Romans scored three quick-fire goals and UCC defence was stretched. At 6-2 UCC continued to work hard and found time for De Lacy to complete his hat-trick with a similar goal to his second.

The game was well contested throughout and a rather harsh score-line on UCC after some classy football in difficult conditions.

UCC: D Turrell, R Monk (Martin Jones), M Ryan, M Woodyard, T Westhead, B van der Meer, W Woodley (Capt.), Matt Jones, J Waller, A Blowes (J Archer), J De Lacy.

Goals: De Lacy 3.

Man of the Match: WES WOODLEY

SATURDAY 9th DECEMBER 2006 UCC vs. BOUNDARY AWAY DIV 1 CUP QUARTER-FINAL

UCC’s cup run will continue into the semi-finals after a penalty shootout victory over last years finalists Boundary FC from Orset. With scores level at 2-2 at full time, it was over to UCC’s penalty specialists to come through 5-3.

Bauke and Matt

On a somewhat sticky pitch and shooting downhill in the first half UCC began the stronger but were first to concede. On 22 minutes midfielder Wes Woodley gave the ball away in his own half and a Boundary player was released down the right wing. He then got a good cross into the centre for the striker to apply the finish into an empty net.

UCC rallied well and deservedly were back on terms on 28 minutes through striker John De Lacy. Left back Marc Ryan showed real class taking the ball round one attacker and playing a one-two with Wes Woodley who released Marc to carry the ball forward and attempt to place the ball over the onrushing Boundary ‘keeper. The Goalie managed to parry the ball but only into the path of De Lacy who was left with an easy finish for 1-1.

UCC nearly had an opportunity to go ahead as the tireless Joe Waller forced a mistake and a slip from the ‘keeper but could not take full advantage of the loose ball.

Waller wins another header

The second half was also a very close affair and again it was Boundary who struck first on 50 minutes. A ball played in low from the left into the UCC box took a bobble on the uneven surface which deceived the first Boundary attacker and much of the UCC defence. The ball agonisingly ran through legs and eventually was latched onto by a Boundary player who shot leaving ‘keeper Turrell with no chance.

UCC always looked dangerous and were back on level terms 5 minutes later. A poor kick from the Boundary goalie was met by midfielder Matt Jones who released De Lacy who took the ball round the ‘keeper and finished well from a very tight angle.

The game threatened to become out of control as the UCC midfield began to air their frustrations at the poor challenges coming in from Boundary. First Wes Woodley was booked when struggling to control his emotions and then Joe Waller reacted to a horrific challenge on Matt Jones, Joe having his name taken. The clear winner of this battle of temprement was midfielder Matt Jones who continued to outplay the Boundary midfield in the face of increasing provacation. Also special mention for Captain Hanover, who again had his hands full controlling his teams' aggression.

Substitute David Kingham meant a switch to 4-4-2.

UCC survived a penalty shout and ‘keeper Dave Turrell was forced into several good one-on-one saves and so the game entered extra time.

Extra time came and went without either team really threatening, both sets of players inevitably tiring on a difficult pitch.

The UCC penalties were all very well taken and Dave Turrell saved Boundary’s third kick to earn UCC a spot on the semi-finals.

UCC: D Turrell, M Woodyard (T Westhead), S Hanover (Capt.), D Sheldon (R Monk), M Ryan, D Blake (D Kingham), W Woodley , Matt Jones, J Waller , B van der Meer, J De Lacy. Sub not used: Martin Jones.

Goals: De Lacy 2

Man of the Match: MATT JONES

Pens: Westhead, Ryan, Hanover, Woodley, De Lacy.

SATURDAY 25th NOVEMBER 2006 D1 vs. SPRINGFIELD ROUGE AWAY

UCC were away to Division 1 rivals Springfield Rouge. The game was in doubt due to heavy weather but the ref and both teams agreed the pitch was playable, so the game went ahead.

UCC had a great start. Springfield Rouge took the centre and passed the ball back to a midfielder, quick pressure from striker John de Lacy caught the player in possesion and he drove past a challenge to the edge before firing into the left hand corner of the net for a goal within 10 seconds of the start.

Springfield Rouge regrouped though and attacked positively forcing a number of corners. The reply came on 13minutes. UCC in possesion one minute in the opposition half lost the ball and Rouge sprang an instant attack. The right winger received possesion and made his run to the byline before crossing the ball to an unmarked attacker at the back post to head into an empty net. 1-1.

Rouge went ahead on 19mins. More pressure from a corner which was swung into the area and fell to an attacker who drove the ball through the crowd into the net to make it 2-1.

UCC managed to level after springing an quick attack of their own. Left winger Tom Westhead playing a well weighted pass down the line to de Lacy who collected and drove to the byline before cutting the ball back. Supporting attacker Bauke van der Meer helped the ball on into the centre of the box and right winger Dan Blake came on a well timed angled run to sweep the ball high into the net from 10 yards. 2-2 on 23 mins.

Springfield Rouge again took the lead on 35mins. Another corner, this time swung in dangerously cleared the Gk and found it's way into the net despite the defensive header that could not quite keep it out. 3-2. There was no further scoring to the first half, both teams battling for possesion on a deteoriating pitch.

The second half saw UCC come out to take the game to Rouge but it was the home team who struck first within 5 mins of the restart. The Rouge right winger again causing problems this time getting on the score sheet. A dubious shout for whether he was shooting or crossing but his attacking play was rewarded as he hit a high ball from wide out that sailed over the Gk and dropped just inside the far post. 4-2.

Credit to UCC who showed good heart not to give up. Looking more competetive and more up for the half of football, there was a brighter outlook to their play. Gk Dave Turrell made some good saves to keep up a resistance to the oppositon attacks, and good work from Joe Waller and Nick Gough at centre back did well to maintain somw balance despite being stretched at times by the oppositionse swift attacks. UCC's threat was slightly hindered by the pitch and slowness to adapt and react sharply to the movement on the ball.

UCC scored next though. Right midfielder Dan Blake fed a well weighted pass to John de Lacy who received possesion wide of the goal on the right hand edge of the box. Taking a touch into the box he then shot across the Gkr into the far corner of the goal, to bring the game to within a single goal. 4-3.

Again UCC were cut back before they could get on terms. Again the Springfield Rouge right winger was the architect as the swift attacks of the opposition stretched the UCC defense. This time a ball played behind the UCC left back released the opposition winger, he crowned his superb performance with another quality cross that again presented the easiest of finishes for an unmarked attacker at the back post. 5-3 on 73mins. UCC still would not lie down though as they set up a grandstand finish. Good work by the midfield trio of Wes Woodley, Matt Jones and Bauke van der Meer saw pressure forced in the middle of the park. Matt Jones recieved the ball on the edge of the box and managed to prod the ball under pressure through to John de Lacy who turned and fired the ball straight into the top near hand corner of the goal. 5-4 with 13mins remaining.

The last minutes of the match saw UCC lay seige to the Rouge goal. Gk Dave Turrell made two excellent saves to prevent further goals to the opposition on the break away but the rest of the time was spent in the opposition half as UCC fought to get the equaliser. Sadly a few near misses were the closest they came to breaching the opposition and the oppostion took the points probably just deserved.

The match was a thriller but again disappointment for UCC in the last league game of the year.

JD 

UCC: D Turrell, M Woodyard, J Waller, N Gough , D Sheldon (R Monk), T Westhead, W Woodley, Matt Jones, B van der Meer, D Blake, J De Lacy. Sub: Martin Jones

Man of the Match: JOE WALLER

Goals: De Lacy 3, Blake. 

SATURDAY 18th NOVEMBER 2006 D1 vs. MANFORD WAY HOME

A real game of two halves resulted in UCC sharing the spoils after a 2-2 draw with mid-tabled Manford Way. UCC ran away with the first half, putting in a dominant and determined performance and led 2-0 at half time. The second half was the opposite, with Manford Way turning up the pressure and coming back well.

Dave and Tom enjoy impersonating a wall

UCC began the game much the hungrier and livelier side and showed some slick passing moves that resulted in a goal worthy of ‘showboat’ on 15 minutes. Winger Dan Blake got into a dangerous position on the edge on the box down the right flank and crossed into striker De Lacy’s feet with his back to goal. From 8 yards out, closely marked by his opponent De Lacy beat the ‘keeper with a powerful back-heel, a la Thierry Henry.

UCC continued to threat, and continually showed great pace in attack through wingers Dan Blake and Tom Westhead who worked tirelessly to provide several good crosses and attacking possession. Also showing great pace and a keen eye for goal was David Kingham in his first start for the club.

On 25 minutes UCC’s confident passing was to provide for a true team goal to put the home side 2-0 up. A rock solid defence dealt with a Manford Way free-kick into the UCC penalty area and the ball broke to forward De Lacy. UCC then showed great pace in the counter-attack as John ran with the ball who fed midfielder Bauke van der Meer who had made another lung-busting run forward. Bauke controlled and span on the ball, laying the ball off for De Lacy, but it was winger Tom Westhead who got to the ball first to tap the ball in from 5 yards.

De Lacy communicates his frustration with the referee

At half time the mood was very positive, however the excellent Captain Hanover warned that there was still work to be done.

The second half saw the defence and ‘keeper of UCC much busier. 5 minutes after the restart ‘keeper-for-the-day’ Joe Waller produced and top quality stop from a one-on-one situation, saving at full stretch to his left.

Manford Way found themselves back in the game shortly afterwards from a stunning strike. A midfielder latched onto a bouncing ball and fired a fiercely dipping shot from 35 yards which Waller was only able to get fingertips on but couldn’t prevent a real wonder goal.

Not one to shy away from a photo opportunity, Joe Waller

UCC were visibly rattled and Captain Simon Hanover was being kept busy in trying to smooth over various UCC players’ relationships with the referee over some bizarre decisions.

Another top-drawer save by Waller came after a long throw was headed goal-bound, this time being tipped over the bar for a corner. However, with 5 minutes remaining UCC failed to deal with a corner and it was eventually stabbed home from close range to level the scores at 2-2.

Both teams still found time for a chance of winning it. First Manford Way got the ball forward and took the ball round ‘keeper Waller only for the ball to be cleared off the line by substitute Marc Ryan.

Then De Lacy showed terrific pace to create a chance after Dan Blake had done well to keep the ball in play. De Lacy skipped round one challenge and went in on goal from a tight angle from which the Manford Way goalie made a good save.

Overall a fair result and one which UCC can be proud of, despite the frustrating way the scoring occurred.

UCC: J Waller, M Woodyard, N Gough (Martin Jones), S Hanover, D Sheldon (M Ryan), D Blake, W Woodley, B van der Meer, T Westhead, D Kingham(A Blowes ), J De Lacy .

Man of the Match: SIMON HANOVER

Goals: De Lacy 15, Westhead 25 

SATURDAY 11th NOVEMBER 2006 UCC vs. SOUTHMINSTER ST LEONARDS RESERVES

UCC’s return to league duties ended in a disappointing defeat to strugglers Southminster. Despite looking the better team for much of the game, UCC failed to take their chances and conceded two unfortunate penalties to go down 3-1 at Chancellor Park.

The home side began much the livelier of two teams and within minutes UCC were given a sign of the bad fortune that was to continue all afternoon. Determined play from attacking midfielder Bauke van der Meer resulted in him winning possession, beating his opponent and crossing a high ball to the far post. Dan Blake challenged well for the ball and it fell kindly to midfielder Tom Westhead, whose volley crashed against the crossbar and to safety.

On ten minutes another chance came UCC’s way. Lone striker John de Lacy won a free-kick just inside Southminster half out on the right wing. Centre-back Joe Waller delivered a top quality cross but De Lacy couldn’t direct his header on goal from distance.

The home side continued to dominate and on 14 minutes good movement up front led to De Lacy getting a good sight out goal with the ball at his feet. De Lacy ran across and through on goal but the Southminster ‘keeper came out to save well when one-on-one.

Soon after winger Dan Blake got on the end of a Richard Monk corner only for his close range header to be cleared off the line.

Having not threatened to this point Southminster took the lead on the half hour mark. A corner to the back post wasn’t well defended and couldn’t be cleared by the defenders on the goal-line, the ball being bundled over the line to put Southminster one up.

Just before half-time another corner led to Southminster going in 2-0 at the break. This time ‘keeper Dave Turrell was adjudged to have pushed a Southminster attacker in coming to meet the corner kick and the referee pointed to the spot.

UCC began the second half at a furious pace and despite some rushed passes were deservedly soon back in the game. A brave header won by the excellent Tom Westhead in the midfield set striker De Lacy through on goal. Showing good composure he held off the defender and slid the ball home under the ‘keeper’s body.

Despite creating a couple of half chances, the momentum ebbed away from UCC’s play and a third Southminster goal killed off the threat of the home side fighting their way back. The second penalty award of the afternoon was somewhat unfortunate, new signing Matt Jones handling the ball on the edge of the box. Despite what looked like a push in the back on Matt causing the handball, the referee gave the spot kick which was duly converted to make the final score line 3-1.

A good overall performance from UCC in terms of creating chances and desire but costly mistakes in front of both goals meant the home side were defeated.

UCC: D Turrell, D Sheldon, J Waller, S Hanover (Capt.),, J Archer, D Blake (D Kingham), T Westhead, M Jones, B van der Meer, R Monk (S Lynch), J de Lacy.

Man of the Match: TOM WESTHEAD

Goals: De Lacy

SATURDAY 4th NOVEMBER 2006 UCC vs NEW LIFE CHURCH, Croydon; NATIONAL CHRISTIAN CUP R1.

UCC were drawn away in the first round of the Christian National Cup to New Life Church F.C from Croydon. As the match started and UCC looked to build on their recent form from October looking to extend the success of the club.

The opening 15mins saw UCC press the opposition. UCC took the lead on 17mins. A great cross field through ball from left midfielder Tom Westhead released striker John de Lacy clean through on goal who shot through the GK's legs from 10 yards out. 1-0

Soon after de Lacy missed a chance to extend the lead after rounding the GK and hitting the out side of the post. N.L.C looked to get on level terms as they pressed for openings but UCC defended well and maintained the greater share of possesion through out the half.

The N.L.C goal frame came to the rescue again right on half time as this time the cross bar denied de Lacy. Just a goal in the game at the break.

UCC looked to close the game out in the second period and this was helped by an early goal on 52mins. Again good interplay by Mark Woodyard and Bauke van der Meer saw the ball worked down the right wing. The ball was fed into de Lacy on the edge of the box who challenged a defender winning the ball and firing a shot from 15 yards that was deflected into the goal by an unforunate covering defender. 2-0

Almost immediately Bauke van der Meer scored his second goal in two games. A long kick by GK Dave Turrell was flicked on by de Lacy and Bauke ran in on the GK chipping him in style as he came out to close the on rushing attacker. 3-0 UCC on 57mins.

Credit N.L.C who stirred and began to dictate the play for the next 15mins. Some neat passing saw them cause UCC problems that resulted in a series of corners. UCC defended well though. Joe Waller making his first start at centre back for the club playing very strongly in that position and new signing Matt Jones working hard in the midfield protecting the back four and getting the team moving.

UCC made it 4-0 on 73mins de Lacy finishing high into the net from 7 yards after great work from Tom Westhead down the left who produced a pin point cross to leave the striker with a hat-trick.

UCC centre back Joe Waller then got an assist as he played a long ball from deep over the N.L.C defence for de Lacy to run onto and he finished from just inside the area low into the right corner on 79mins for 5-0.

Right in the last minute of the game UCC were awarded a penalty for hand ball as a defender was adjudged to have controlled a cross from Bauke van der Meer with his arm. de Lacy slotted the ball into the left hand corner of the net just out of the reach of the diving Gk for 6-0.

Although the scoreline was heavy the game was a contest with New Life Church showing good periods of play. The match was played in a very good spirit, a testament to the Christian nature of the competition. UCC now face St Albans Romans in the second round of the competition at home on the 2 Dec.
JD

UCC: D Turrell, Martin Jones, J Waller, S Hanover (Capt.), J Archer, M Woodyard, W Woodley, Matt Jones, T Westhead, B van der Meer, J de Lacy.

Man of the Match: JOHN DE LACY

UCC Goals: John de Lacy 5, Bauke van der Meer

SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2006 UCC vs. SPRINGFIELD ROUGE DIV 1 HOME

UCC played host to old rivals Springfield Rouge at Chancellor Park saturday. A game that would stir memories of matches from old, always well contested but played in a good spirit of competition with respect for one another, adding to the match.

The match started and the first 15mins was a tight affair both teams defending competently but also looking to open each other up. UCC broke the deadlock on 30mins after an excellent strike from Midfield Forward Baulke van der Meer. Good pressure on the right wing by Alex Chamberlain forced the defender to pass inside the area to a team mate. Bauke followed up with a swift challenge on the edge of the box robbing the defender and driving in on goal. Bauke then powered a well struck drive from 15 yards wide on the right that beat the keeper under his diving body to deflect over the line for a quality individual goal.

UCC then almost instantly doubled the lead Dan Blake supporting the attack from the left wing and firing a shot that the keeper parried and then following up to put the rebound just wide.

Springfield Rouge maintained a threat keeping Dave Turrell busy in goal and a defense of debutant right back Adam Blowes, center back Martin Jones and Dave Sheldon and first full start at left back James Archer in the game. H.T 1-0.

The second half saw UCC looking to maintain the shape and unity of the team, which was held together well by central midfielders, Captain Wesley Woodley and Tom Westhead. The second half again much like the first saw the first 15mins a tight affair both teams showing good play and trying to create chances.

UCC again found the opening though as striker John de Lacy doubled the lead. A throw on the edge of the box was cleverly disguised by Baulke who faked to go down the line but threw the ball into the box directly into the path of de Lacy who fired the ball into the near bottom corner from 10yards. 2-0.

UCC then lost their talisman Baulke to a head injury resulting from a first half clash of heads that resurfaced and caused him to feel dizzy and so have to leave the pitch on the hour mark. With no subs UCC played with 10 men, yet thought to have won the game when stiker John de Lacy got UCC's third. A huge kick by Gk Dave Turrell that landed on the edge of the Springfield Rouge box was controlled by de Lacy who then turned the covering defender and went round the Gk to slot the ball in to an empty net for 3-0.

Springfield Rouge never gave up though and with 25mins left they found a way past the brilliant Dave Turrell and UCC defense. A cross into the box fell to an unmarked Rouge player who slotted the ball home from 10yards out to start an imminent fight back. 3-1 UCC continued to defend well with 10 men and thought they had weathered the worst of it when Rouge had a close range effort disallowed for offside. The ball though almost immediately was put back into the UCC box and a Rouge player reached it first to head home from close range just inside the near post. 3-2

With 5mins remaining Bauke van der Meer re-entered the fray as it became increasingly one way traffic, UCC not using the ball to pose a threat when in possesion allowed Rouge to pack the opposition half and bombard the penalty area. With the last kcik of the game UCC's hearts were broken as Rouge again found the net to complete an excellent comeback. Another high ball was pumped into the box and with four players going up for it the ball dropped agonisingly at the back post and found its way into the corner of the goal a for 3-3. At which point the ref blew his whistle to signal the end of the game.

The UCC players all played excellently and although the result felt like a defeat the actual performance considering the lack of subs and debutant players must be highly commended.

Both teams shook hands to acknowledge a highly exciting match and commend each others effort. The game was well refereed also.
JD

UCC: D Turrell, A Blowes, M Jones, D Sheldon, J Archer, A Chamberlain, W Woodley, T Westhead, D Blake, B van der Meer, J de Lacy.

Man of the Match: DAVE TURRELL

UCC Goals: Bauke van der Meer 30, John de Lacy 57, 65.

SATURDAY 21ST OCTOBER 2006 UCC vs. SCOTIA BILLERICAY DIV 1 HOME PICTURE GALLERY

After last weeks’ penalty drama, UCC turned in a somewhat lacklustre performance to go down 3-0 at home to title-contenders Scotia Billericay in what was the home sides’ first defeat at Chancellor Park.

A solid team defensive showing in the first half wasn't to last

In a disciplined but uninspiring first half, UCC were very much in the game, enjoying a good share of possession, while looking comfortable at the back. Goalkeeper Dave Turrell did have some work to do however, including clawing out a looping header at full stretch.

Down the other end, UCC went closest to scoring when the Scotia Billericay ‘keeper had his clearance closed down by striker John De Lacy, only for the ball to be deflected into the side netting.

Despite Joe leaping like a salmon UCC draw a blank

This slice of fortune proved to be the turning point of the game as Scotia Billericay took charge and began to play with greater confidence and effectiveness, creating a number of half chances.

The second goal came on 58 minutes. A Billericay player getting on the end of a cross swung in from the right who’s header found the net despite the best efforts of ‘keeper Turrell and defender Dave Sheldon on the line.

This triggered a change in personnel by manager De Lacy replacing injured midfielder Joe Waller with James Archer who looked lively after coming on in a right midfield role.

Impressing as sub, James Archer

Five minutes later the game was sewn up by the away side as they scored a soft third goal. Confusion within the UCC defence led to a free header putting a Scotia forward through on goal who took his chance well, while the UCC players appealed in vain for an off-side decision.

Despite the introduction of forward Scott Lynch and defender Martin Jones, UCC never really got going in the second half against a strong and well balanced Scotia Billericay team.
BA

UCC: D Turrell, D Sheldon (M Jones 67), M Ryan, S Hanover (Capt.), R Monk, T Westhead, W Woodley, J Waller (J Archer 59), M Woodyard, Dan Blake (S Lynch 66), J De Lacy.

SATURDAY 14th OCTOBER 2006 UCC vs. BOREHAM (H) DIV 1 CUP R1 PICTURE GALLERY

UCC’s good progress continued today in the first round of the league cup. After being two up at half time, Boreham came back to force extra time and penalties, where UCC won 6-5 in an action-packed game.

The game began and the UCC team were clearly confident of the getting a result, carving open the Boreham defence with some dynamic football. The first good opportunity came on 10 minutes when Bauke van der Meer made a good interception and fed striker De Lacy down the right flank. He then crossed to the far post where Tom Westhead headed back across goal, just missing the far post.

The first goal was to come 6 minutes later. A through ball from Joe Waller found the feet of De Lacy who showed good skill to wriggle past two defenders and get a shot away from 12 yards. The shot was half-blocked looping goalward and was cleared off the line before before Tom westhead followed up to put UCC 1-0 up.

Minutes later Dan Blake had a shot cleared off the line after a mistake by a Boreham defender.

The second goal for UCC was not long in coming and it was the in-form Tom Westhead who was on the score-sheet again. A corner was taken by De Lacy on the right beyond the far post, and was headed back toward goal by Joe Waller where Westhead was on hand to stab the ball home from close range to make it 2-0.

Boreham then took the initiative as they tried to get back into the game and on 21 minutes had a stinging shot from 20 yards which was deflected just round the post. From the resulting corner, ‘keeper Dave Turrell was well placed to make a sharp save from a close range shot. Another long shot from a Boreham player just clipped the outside of the post.

The last chance Boreham had in the first half resulted in the outstanding Marc Ryan deflecting out a volley from a close range effort.

The second half started and saw Boreham had a number of efforts on goal, with Turrell equal to everything thrown at him.

UCC’s best chance of the half was a headed one from lone striker De Lacy. Good interplay from Richard Monk and Bauke van der Meer down the left hand side allowed van der Meer the space to swing in a perfect cross only for De Lacy’s glancing header to be saved by the Boreham ‘keeper.

On 65 minutes Boreham fought their way back into the tie with a goal. A long pass forward down the centre of defence was chased by two UCC defenders. One missed his clearance and the other was beaten by some good skill by the Boreham No 9 who finished confidently to the ‘keepers left.

With 10 minutes of normal time remaining Boreham were level. Marc Ryan’s clearance unfortunately hit another UCC player and fell kindly to the Boreham attacker to volley home from 8 yards. 2-2.

And so extra time was required and this meant UCC were reduced to 10 men due to work commitments of the industrious Richard Monk. UCC were made to defend for most of extra time and did so brilliantly. When Turrell was called upon he made a fine reaction save as the Boreham striker attempted a lobbed finish.

Penalties came and there were no shortage of volunteers and no signs of nerves whatsoever. UCC went first and scored all five of the penalties, as did Boreham. Sudden death saw captain Wes Woodley step up and find the net. Boreham's next penalty was saved at the feet of Dave Turrell to win the game for UCC. UCC penalty takers were Tom Westhead, Marc Ryan, Dan Blake, Bauke van der Meer, John De Lacy, and Wes Woodley.

A close game, full of chances, was played in a great spirit and sees UCC enter the draw for round two of the division 1 cup.
BA

UCC: D Turrell, M Jones (J Archer 63), M Ryan, D Sheldon, R Monk, D Blake, W Woodley (Capt.), J Waller, B van der Meer, T Westhead, J De Lacy. Sub: J Archer

SATURDAY 7th OCTOBER 2006 D1 vs. ESSEX POLICE HOME

UCC played their second league home game of the season on Saturday welcoming Essex Police to Chancellor Park.

The first half started with both teams looking to get off the mark and gain their first points of the season. A fast pace was set from the off and the first 20 mins offered little indication of who was going to take the points. UCC working the ball to either wing where Alex Chamberlain was making his first start of the season on the right and Tom Westhead attacking down the left. Essex Police going direct to their strikers early from long balls sought to push for the opener.

On 35mins the first real chance fell to UCC. Good work from Tom W saw him get to the byline and pull the ball back across goal where the unmarked striker John de Lacy miscontrolled but the ball falling perfectly for Alex C who was denied from 7 yards out by a good save from the GK. Right on half time the deadlock was broken somewhat fortuotiously from a UCC corner. The ball was played in from the right hand side and Simon Hanover attacked the back post heading down towards goal, the ball deflected and sat perfectly for Tom W who shot through a crowd of players but the GK again seemed to have saved the shot only for the ball to somehow spill over the line to be awarded as a goal.

The second half was still very open Essex Police perhaps harshly behind and UCC looking to kill the game off with a continued strong display. On 55mins central midfielder Bauke van der Meer picked the ball up just inside the opposition half after good pressing by Joe Waller and Wesley Woodley also in central midfield. He fed the ball thorugh to striker John de Lacy who ran to the edge of the box before firing the ball into the near bottom corner just taking the GK and defender by surprise. 2-0.

This goal signalled a good fightback from the opposition who enjoyed good possesion and created a couple of good chances as UCC just let panic set in.

First GK Dave Turrell had to make a good full stretch save to tip a shot just wide after after an angled strike. Then the frame of the goal was rattled after an attacker picked up on a stray pass from the UCC left wing cutting in and hitting the near stantion of the goal.

UCC steadied and began again to assert themselves defending with more composure and working the ball out again.

Goal number three came as right back Martin Jones won possesion from an opposition player and showed good control to side step a challenge. He then looked up and played a well weighted through ball to striker John de lacy who ran the ball into the area, he looked to play in a low cross but a covering defender cut out the cross and the ball came straight back to him. After controlling he shot powerfully into the far corner of the goal to reassert UCC's ascendency.

UCC found the net again soon after on 70mins. Striker John de Lacy ran the ball down the right wing and floated a cross just out of the GK reach for Tom westhead to get his second of the game with a cushioned finish into an empty net.

The opposition now visibly dejected continued to compete and showed excellent spirit to continue to press UCC but good concentration and communication through out the back line and midfield maintained to nullify the threat. UCC freshened the team with 3 subs in the form of Mark Ryan, Richard Gough and James Archer and they added a good prescense. Dave Sheldon continued to defend with good accomplishment at the central of defence. This performance gave his other centre back the confidence to carry the ball forward almost resulting in a fantastic goal. Simon Hanover picked the ball up on halfway and ran at the covering defence showing good pace and skill he ran past a challenge and into the box, from 15yards out he appeared to of added a fifth with a well struck shot that somehow flashed past the far post.

The fifth did come with 5mins remaining. Bauke van der Meer broke from midfield down the left wing and showed excellent skill to get to the byline and cut into the box he played an excellent pass between covering defender and Gk to striker de Lacy who had the easiest of finishes for his hat-trick. The final minutes were played out and both teams acknowledged each others performance in what was a closer game than perhaps the scoreline suggested.
JD

UCC : D Turrell, M Jones, S Hanover, D Sheldon, R Monk, A Chamberlain, W Woodley, B van der Meer, J Waller, T Westhead, J de Lacy. Subs Used; M Ryan, R Gough, J Archer.

Man of the Match: WESLEY WOODLEY

Goals: Tom Westhead 45, 70, John de Lacy 55, 65, 85.

SATURDAY 30th SEPTEMBER 2006 DAVE STRACHAN CUP R1 vs. MARKS FARM FC AWAY

The first Cup match of UCC's season was a first round match away against Division 5 Marks Farm F.C, in the Dave Strachan Cup. A opportunity for UCC to gain much needed confidence from a break from league action.The match proved to be a real Cup game needing the extra 30mins to provide a result.

UCC started brightly and immediately imposed themselves on the opposition. Swift, accurate passing and high tempo caused the home side early problems. Dan Blake going closest for UCC after 10mins sweeping a low cross just past the near upright. Good early work from left winger and left back Rich Monk and Mark Ryan saw UCC gain a freekick just wide of the edge of the opposition box. From the cross striker John de Lacy found the far corner of the goal from a flicked header for his first goal of the season after a four game barren spell to put UCC one up. Credit to Marks Farm F.C who defended alertly and always looked to maintain a threat through out the first period preventing any further goals against.

The second half started and Marks Farm maintained their confidence as UCC's play began to wilt. Marks Farm levelled after 10 mins. A corner was only half cleared and slack reactions from the defensive team allowed a covering player time to hit a shot from the edge of the box over the keeper for 1-1. This spurred the homeside on and they began to play the brighter football. Their confidence evident in their enthusiasm and communication. UCC found themselves behind on 60mins. A freekick given away on the edge of the box was taken quickly and while UCC players were still trying to decide the position of the wall and who should pick up, the shot took a deflection off of a defender and wrong footed the goalkeeper for 2-1.

UCC found a way back into the game on 75mins. Midfielder Bauke van der Meer played the ball up to striker John de Lacy on the edge of the box. He turned the covering defender and went past the goalkeeper before slotting the ball home from a tight angle for 2-2.

UCC looked for a winner but no real chances came and they looked far from convincing as Marks Farm defended throughout the team.

Extra time came and again the first period offered little difference between the teams. UCC going closest from a de Lacy freekick that hit the outside of the far post. Marks Farm maintained a threat despite the difference in divisions. A high ball into the UCC box confirmed this when a failure to clear meant the ball fell to an attacking player who finished from close range to put the home team 3-2 up. This spurred the home team to run even harder and they assumed the more authouritive role in the match. A converted penalty kick seemed to have killed UCC off, but apparent encrouchement ruled out the goal and UCC were awarded a freekick.

The second period saw UCC chasing the game and in the final minutes the result was confirmed as a half cleared ball was taken first time in the box and fired into the far corner by a Marks Farm striker to send the home team through and cause a major upset in the competition.
JD.

UCC: D Turrell, D Sheldon (M Jones 67), M Woodyard, N Gough, M Ryan, T Westhead (S Lynch 67), J Waller, B van der Meer, R Monk (D Jones 67), D Blake, J Delacy. Subs: D Jones, S Lynch, M Jones

Man of the Match: JOHN DE LACY

Goals: John de Lacy 13, 80
Marks Farm Goals: 

SATURDAY 23rd SEPTEMBER 2006 D1 vs. LWSC GALLABRIGHT FC AWAY PICTURE GALLERY

UCC’s slow start to the new season continued on Saturday as they went down 3-0 to a Gallabright side who were also looking for their first win in the league. But for a fine goalkeeping display from Dave Turrell, the defeat could have been much heavier.

UCC lined up 4-4-2 against the 3-5-2 of Gallabright and seemed to nullify the home teams numerical advantage in the middle, but it was defensive frailty that saw the opening goal come in the 7th minute. The talented Gallabright forward took down a cross-field ball with his chest over on the left wing, beating the UCC defence in the same movement to put him through on goal. He then finished powerfully into the far corner from 12 yards for a top quality goal.

The first of many important saves from Turrell came from a long through ball and a low shot from a tight angle, saved with his feet. Two minutes later Turrell saved again from close range after UCC failed to clear their lines. The pressure continued and Turrell was to make a third good save in as many minutes as the ball fell to a Gallabright midfielder on the edge of the box and struck a shot which was parried at full stretch down to the ‘keepers left.

With 27 minutes gone Gallabright’s chances were to reward them with a second goal. Another long ball wasn’t dealt with and the attacker controlled and turned well and found the far left corner of the net from 10 yards for his second.

At this point UCC did start to put together some positive attacks and twice went close to pulling a goal back. First a strong run from John De Lacy down the right channel found him making space to shoot which was parried only to loop back to De Lacy who was unable to find the target with a volleyed follow-up.

UCC had welcomed back last season’s players player of the year Bauke van der Meer who had shown great energy in the first half and was nearly rewarded with a goal. Bauke won the ball near the by-line in the left wing position beat one defender and hit a cross-shot from a tight angle which was tipped round the post by the opposition ‘keeper.

Just prior to the interval, Gallabright went 3-0 up. Dave Turrell had done excellently to push a long range effort onto the bar, only for the rebound to find an onrushing attacker who headed home.

Playing down the hill in the second half, UCC looked to gain more possession in attacking positions, but it was the home side who continued to have the best of the chances. Mid way through the half it looked like a fouth goal as a deflected shot from outside the box looped goal-wards only for Turrell to make an excellent adjustment to claw the ball to safety.

UCC were struggling to carve out clear opportunities, and were restricted to a few corner kicks against a well-drilled defence. With 20 minutes to go, a painful twisted ankle forced forward Josh Martin off, to be replaced by UCC ‘legend’ Dan Jones, joint top goal-scorer of the 98/99 season. Manager De Lacy switched to a 3-4-3 formation as UCC aimed to get back in the game.

Despite some promising possession, the chances were just not forthcoming for UCC as they continue to chase their first points of the season.
BA

UCC: D Turrell, I Gregory-Smith, S Hanover (Capt.), P Charlesworth, M Ryan, D Blake, J Waller, B van der Meer, T Westhead, J Martin (D Jones 70), J Delacy. Subs: D Jones

Man of the Match: DAVE TURRELL

Gallabright Goals: 7, 27, 45 

SATURDAY 16th SEPTEMBER 2006 D1 vs. BOREHAM FC HOME  PICTURE GALLERY

UCC’s first home game of the season resulted in a narrow 3-1 loss, despite going ahead mid-way through the first half.

Boreham had a 6-1 win over Southminster Reserves last week and remain unbeaten this season after coming from 1-0 down at half time. UCC had the better of the first half, creating frequent chances going forward while looking in control in defence.

UCC’s first real threat on the Boreham goal resulted in Joe Waller scoring after running onto a through ball from right-winger Scott Staines, and taking the ball round the goalkeeper for a superbly composed finish. With the through-ball intended for striker Delacy who was in an offside position, Waller pounced on Boreham’s hesitance as they claimed offside.

A deserved lead was nearly cancelled out as a Boreham forward managed to find space for a free header from a corner kick just six yards out, resulting in a point-blank save from ‘keeper Dave Turrell.

The twenty minutes before half-time saw UCC dominate without managing to kill off Boreham with a second goal despite some good service from Richard Monk and Marc Ryan down a productive left wing.

Firstly a swift counter attack from Turrell to Delacy, resulted in Scott Staines finding acres of space 20 yards out. As he was pursued by a Boreham defender Staines fired a fierce shot from distance over the bar.

Tireless forward Dan Blake made the final effort on goal of the half, running into the right-hand channel, wrong-footed his marker with a Cruyff turn, cut into the area only for his left-foot shot to be well blocked by a covering defender.

As the second half progressed, Boreham began to dominate and the UCC goal threat dried up. The equaliser came on 75 minutes after a skilful turn and neat finish by the Boreham striker 12 yards from goal.

Five minutes later the visitors went ahead. Again a corner was UCC’s undoing, as the first header was saved the rebound was nudged in off a Boreham players’ thigh with the UCC defence sleeping.

As UCC began to push for an equaliser with a couple of Delacy efforts saved, Boreham wrapped things up with a route-one goal. A kick from the ’keeper was flicked on unchallenged for the Boreham attacker to run onto it and finish well for a 3-1 victory.

UCC: D Turrell, T Westhead (J Martin 80), S Hanover (Capt.), M Woodyard, M Ryan, S Staines (D Sheldon 45), J Waller, W Woodley, R Monk (P Charlesworth 80), D Blake, J Delacy. Subs: J Martin, S Lynch, M Jones, P Charlesworth, D Sheldon.

Man of the Match: DAN BLAKE

Goal: Joe Waller 17

Boreham Goals: 69, 76, 86 

SATURDAY 9th SEPTEMBER 2006 D1 vs WELCOME FC AWAY PICTURE GALLERY

UCC went down to a single goal away to newly promoted side Welcome FC from Heybridge. The home side put UCC under sustained pressure throughout the game, with the breakthrough coming late on to break UCC hearts and a very strong back line.

The clearest opportunity of the first half fell to UCC winger Richard Monk on 35 mins. After some good possession from forward Scott Staines, full-back Mark Ryan put over a cross for striker John de Lacy to head back across goal. The ball ran through to the back post where Monk then shot towards the far post only for the Welcome ‘keeper to make a fantastic finger-tip save.

The UCC defence of Gough, Hanover, Woodyard, Ryan, and ‘keeper Turrell were kept busy all half but dealt with everything superbly. Well protected too by Wes Woodley from central midfield.

After the break the Welcome assault on the UCC defence continued as attacking possession began to bear fruit in terms of chances. On 55 mins a magnificent save from Turrell kept UCC in the hunt. A corner from the left was headed goal bound from 6 yards out only for Turrell to reach out to his left and parry the ball away.

With 25 mins left Manager John de Lacy shuffled the pack, replacing wingers Tom Westhead and Richard Monk with Dan Blake and 17 year old Josh Martin.

The home team continued to attack with centre-backs Woodyard and captain Hanover excelling themselves. However a Welcome goal was looking all the more likely. First Hanover was too strong for a Welcome attacker who went to ground chasing a through ball and the captain was shown a yellow card. Then Mark Ryan was forced on two occasions to clear the ball off the goal line. Next, a clever run from a Welcome forward evaded two tackles as he cut in from the left and fired a shot onto the underside of the crossbar.

With the UCC defence looking as though they had won UCC’s first point of the season, a somewhat soft goal was to win it for Welcome. A deflected through ball ran kindly for their striker who found himself in on goal to slot past Turrell to go 1-0 up in the 84th minute.

There was still time for Dave Turrell to make another outstanding reaction save, and for Wes Woodley to shoot over the bar from the edge of the area after a strong run from De Lacy and tee-up from Joe Waller.
BA

UCC: D Turrell, N Gough, S Hanover (Capt.), M Woodyard, M Ryan, T Westhead, W Woodley, J Waller, R Monk, S Staines, J de Lacy

Man of the Match: MARK WOODYARD

Goals: Welcome: 84

SATURDAY 2nd SEPTEMBER 2006 D1 vs SILVER END AWAY PICTURE GALLERY

UCC’s opening game of the season was always going to be a tough early test and so it proved as Silver End ran out 6-1 winners, scoring 3 times either side of half time.

Finishing fourth last season and having done the double over UCC last term, the home side began as favourites, but the early promise was shown by UCC with forward Scott Lynch starting brightly.

The decisive moment of the game was to come very early however as a Silver End forward broke down the left and cut into the penalty area. Evading two challenges, the attacker took his opportunity as a third came, and went to ground after minimal contact from centre-back Mark Woodyard. The penalty was converted low to ‘keeper Dave Turrell’s left with 10 mins gone.

It was to get worse before half time as Silver End scored two further well taken goals. The home team’s only other effort of note was powerfully struck but saved by the feet of Turrell. Bright points in the half for UCC included some well-timed challenges from centre-back Martin Jones, and the performance of Scott Lynch, winning a series free kicks and corners but nothing was to come of them, the kickers struggling with the strong wind.

Captain Wes Woodley showed some scoring intent for the season with two rare shots, one particularly well-struck from distance, forcing a finger-tips save from the ‘keeper.

After the interval UCC looked to impose themselves but were undone by another killer-blow as Silver End made it 4-0 on 49 minutes. Despite the score line, the share of attacking possession had been fairly even, with Silver End’s ability to find a quality through ball and finish being the difference.

UCC continued to threat, winning corners and attacking free-kicks but the much needed breakthrough just wouldn’t come. A well-struck 25 yard free-kick from John de Lacy was well tipped over the bar by End’s ‘keeper.

With time running out for a comeback, Silver End penetrated the UCC defence once again and a square ball left a tap-in for a fifth of the afternoon which ended UCC’s chances. Josh Martin replaced Scott Lynch who showed promise, cutting in from the left and trying a Thierry special in the top right corner which found the trees behind the goal.

Right-sided midfielder Tom Westhead provided a cross which was knocked down towards Martin on the edge of the box but he could only side-foot wide.

Silver End added a sixth on 80 minutes with left-back Mark Ryan crucially off the field after a clash of heads, not an enjoyable debut for the promising new signing despite his good performance.

The impressive Joe Waller bagged his first league goal for UCC after a corner was cleared only as far as Richard Monk who fed the ball back to Westhead to swing in another cross which was met by Waller at the far post.

A harsh score line on UCC who performed well, Silver End looking a strong side who showed some clinical finishing to take the majority of their chances.
BA

UCC: D Turrell, I Gregory-Smith, M Woodyard, M Jones, M Ryan, T Westhead, J Waller, W Woodley (Capt.), R Monk, S Lynch (J Martin 67), J de Lacy

Man of the Match: JOE WALLER
Goals: Waller 82
Goals: Silver End: 10, 15, 32, 49, 67, 80

WEDNESDAY 30th AUGUST; FRIENDLY vs ST. MARGARETS

UCC won 2-1 away from home to secure a winning finish to pre-season.

The away side dominated the first half, showing some much improved flowing attacking football. Inevitably the pressure told and after a John de Lacy shot was blocked the ball fell to striker for the day Alex Chamberlain who was on hand to side-foot home. 

After the break the outstanding Joe Waller provided much of the attacking threat, one mazy run past three defenders ended with his shot crashing against the crossbar, denying him what would have been "goal of pre-season".

A superb save by the St Margaret's 'keeper prevented de Lacy doubling UCC's lead on the hour mark.

UCC were to pay for missed chances and complacency as St Margaret's drew level via a free header from a corner kick.

This roused the UCC players who hit back immediately, and after a goalmouth scramble, man-of-the-match Joe Waller deservedly was in the right place to fire home from close range to earn UCC a win to go into the new season.

Other noteable performances were given by centre-backs Peter Charlesworth and captain Simon Hanover. James Allen made his first appearance for the club coming on to slot effortlessly into left back.
BA

UCC: D Turrell, M Woodyard, S Hanover (capt.), P Charlesworth, R Monk, J Archer, W Woodley (J Allen 70), J Waller, T Westhead, J de Lacy, A Chamberlain.

Goals: A Chamberlain, J Waller

TUESDAY 22nd AUGUST; FRIENDLY vs RAVENS

First game of pre-season saw a spirited UCC go down 3-1 away to Premier Division Ravens, who finished 3rd in the top flight last term.

Despite edging the share of possession and chances, UCC were 1-0 down at half time. A swift attack and exchange of passes enabled the Ravens forward to poke home from a dangerous cross come shot. Ravens only other chance of note came from a back post header from a corner kick which was cleared off the line by the outstanding Richard Monk.
Also impressing in the first half was Dan Blake, showing some great skills and willing runs.

In the second period Ravens began to dominate in possession and territory and the second goal came despite a questionable offside decision. A seemingly offside run down the right-hand channel was found who then squared the ball across goal for the attacker who found himself in the right place to tap home.

Ravens added a third before John Delacy clawed one back for UCC. With only three or four easy passes available, Delacy saw no option but to make a strong run on goal before unleashing a left-foot rocket into the top corner.

A very promising start to pre-season with the whole squad showing the progress made last term and debutant Joe showing what an important signing he could prove.
BA

UCC: D Turrell, T Westhead, S Hanover (c), M Jones, R Monk, J Waller, B Van der Meer, W Woodley, D Blake, S Staines, J Delacy. Subs (all used); J Martin, D Sheldon, M Woodyard, S Lynch.

Goals: Delacy

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