Rainworth Mw 3 - 0 Stamford Afc

Stamford Afc

Today could be a tricky one, Market Drayton are only one point behind 'The Wrens' but for most they have a much better opportunity to grab a point or three with an home fixture against fellow strugglers Brigg Town, but with only seven points separating eleventh to twentieth positions in the league optimism prevails.

One big obstacle to jump first though this morning..!! Jack Frost has been busy and Nottinghamshire wakes up to a very crisp start.

'The Young Rangers' game has already "Gone for a Burton" so it`s a ten-fifteen pitch inspection at Kirklington Road followed by a re-inspection at eleven thirty.

Les Lee reply's to my text, "Game On" and Dudsey gets to thinking about what might lie ahead for Rainworth this afternoon.

Having only finished two points above Rainworth last season in a lowly 19th position Stamford `s turn of fortune came initially under the tenure of Simon Clark who was quickly snapped up by Worksop Town and more recently by ex-Hucknall Town boss Tommy Brookbanks who has also continued to 'Buck the Trend' for the Lincolnshire side this season.

Winter makes a show.

Since taking over as Manager, Kev Gee has had time to assess the squad and make a few decisions about what is needed to fulfill his squad and who isn`t in his future plans, Chris Timons and Gavin Saxby have been informed that they fall into the latter category and have now left the Club.

One welcome addition to the squad comes in the form of ex-Sheffield Fc striker Matt Glass, a player who Dudsey has always rated, in-fact reading the team-sheet Rainworth`s previous concerns about the lack of a goal orientated strike-force seem like a distant memory.

Another concern as we enter the ground, "How cold is it today," little did we know that the lads were about to warm our hearts over the next ninety minutes.

A pretty even opening ten minutes allows both sets of supporters to take a look at what is on display this afternoon, Glass looks to be what he as always been, very able, whilst Stamford`s main threats have to be one of  Dudsey`s favourite mid-fielders, Nat Watson and Brigg`s ex-Talisman, Bruno Holden.

Cameron Fearon has to contend with Nick Ghislanzoni again, hopefully it won`t end up in 'Fisticuffs' as it did at Watnall Road on August Bank Holiday Monday, it looked exact the opposite as Cam`s only error all afternoon was to gift the ball to 'Ghis' and if not for Joe McCormack`s awareness it could have been 0-1 on quarter of an hour.

Ricky Hanson gets tangled up with Ghislanzoni (10)

Today`s Referee, Chris Ward doesn`t seem to mind a few chunks being kicked off and although Dudsey is all for letting the game flow it can send out the wrong message, fortunately the game is played in a very good spirit. ("Just as well").

Ricky Hanson is having a cracking first half and Mark Camm is grinding out another impeccable shift along side Steve Kennedy. Both sides continue to find try and find an opening, Stamford`s keeper looks a little uneasy and makes a couple of bad decisions and shows enough of the ball to Matt Glass who probably should have made him pay.

As dangerous as ever, Ant Lynam treats all present to a 'Peach of a Goal' reminiscent of Gazza`s goal in 'Euro 96' as he chips the ball over the defender and volleys it beyond Mario Ziccardi, 1-0 with half an hour gone.

Lynam applies some pressure

'The Wrens' seem to be taking control, Ben Spargo and Matt Glass are working 'The Daniels' defence and Lynam is 'Geed Up' and senses there could be more offerings up for grabs.

Steve Akers has joined the mid-field and seems to be paired up well with Danny Bacon.

Bruno Holden has a couple of chances to create trouble but is finding Rainworth`s defence in no mood for compromise, Nat Watson has hardly featured all half and Ghislanzoni looks very awkward on the ball and seems to be making no impact.

Jake Gibson looks to be Stamford`s best prospect but seems to be dropping far too deep for me. Half-time and it remains 1-0.

Given 'The Daniels' league position, Tommy Brookbanks is probably 'Having One' in the dressing room and you would have thought the second half would see a different Stamford side take to the pitch.

Thoughts of a quick turn around are well and truly shattered as a mix up between Ziccardi and his defence allows Lynam and Spargo to walk into the six yard box, pick their spot and Ant tee`s up Ben to put the home-side 2-0 up within minutes of the restart.

Rattled by such a quick goal, Rainworth have Stamford on the back foot, caution is thrown to the wind and Tommy makes all three substitutions in one go, off goes Holden, Flett and Gibson replaced by Andy Toyne, Harry Deane and Nat Watson is joined by his younger brother Keiran, (who Dudsey had previously raved about when he was paired up with Carl Haslam at Shirebrook).

The sun goes down on Stamford`s day

Stamford probably enjoy their best spell of the game immediately after the changes, Kieran is lightening quick and the fresh faced youngster Deane seem to be livening it up a little, Nat Watson nips in from the right, picks up the ball and skips across the face of McCormack

Realising the turn of play Rainworth make a change, Spargo makes way for Nathan Adams, "it`s so refreshing for Rainworth to have real striking options as well as 'options on the bench'.

Adams` pace and non-stop perseverance soon swing the game heavily in favour of the home-side, Glass, Lynam and Akers are "on it" again, chance after chance now has Stamford pegged back and if the shooting practice had been a little more precise Rainworth could have had another four.

To top off a good debut Matt Glass gets a worthy reward as he snook on from the right and found the net within the last ten minutes sealing the game.

3-0, and for me one of Rainworth`s most complete performances to date leaves Dudsey totally inspired and very optimistic for the rest of the season and a "Bad day at the Office" for Tommy`s lad`s but he`ll spin it round for 'The Daniels' I`m sure.

I`m not going to insult anyone by naming a 'Man of the Match', Ant`s goal was a dream but today was about a team.. Well done lads!!

Attendance - 115

Rainworth Mw 1 - 3 Goole Afc

They came, they Conquered!

Thoughts of tonight`s game being played under a crystal clear sky seemed unthinkable at three o'clock this afternoon, Gale force winds and rain bouncing a foot off the floor.

A bright Moon with a distinct nip in the air and hardly a breath of wind sets the scene for the 'Return of the Vikings' to Kirklington Road.

Three wins on the bounce for Kevin Gee`s 'Resurgent Wrens' has raised expectations in the stands.

Having said that, no one will take for-granted the severe beatings Rainworth have suffered at the hands of Goole in previous encounters, non more-so than Gavin Allotts five goal romp at the Victoria Pleasure Grounds in October 2010.

Given that, it`s another season and both sides have undergone significant changes and it will be interesting to see what tonight has to offer?

Rainworth started off bright enough, Kyle-Gee Pemberton looked "well up for it" as did new signee Niall O’Rafferty with Steve Akers adopting his usual 'Busy Bee' runs in and around the box.

After the first fifteen minutes though the game started to fizzle out, very little in the way of real football, Route One, straight down the middle with both keepers hoofing it to each other, neither side looked to take any advantage of the acres of space created by the lack of width.

Goole`s Vill Powell`s usual threat is paled into insignificance by the manner of play and without being too critical the visitors seem to be spending a fair bit of time on the floor. .

Lee Cooksey did manage to break the tedium as he picked up a loose ball just outside the box and lashed it beyond Aaron Chapman to give the home-side the lead on the half-hour but apart from that and the odd rush at goal by the ever-lively Steve Akers the game was really in need of some direction, tbh Rainworth do look to be missing that extra bit of something without Nathan Adams` presence.

Brian

Half time approaches and it`s good to see ('Evening Post') Brian Dennett back on his feet after a pretty rough time. I`m sure everyone at Carlton Town is glad to see him back to himself.

A quick chat with Rainworth`s reserve Team Managers, Ady Smith and Kev Wilson and it`s back down to business

It`s marvellous what fifteen minutes can do for a game of football, Goole`s manager looks to have reminded his side about the basics and that`s exactly what they produced for him, gone are the first half long ball tactics and at last it`s 'pass and move'.

Goole`s revised tactics look to be creating problems for the home-side, Tommy Hannighan is keeping Powell at bay, and Mark Camm is 'Sweeping for England' in an attempt to thwart the "Invasion by the Vikings" but there`s a lot of pressure being created at the wrong end of the pitch.

Rainworth start to use the flanks, mainly the right one via Ricky Hanson and it`s starting to look a bit better, Ant Lynam once again replaces Cooksey upfront ("I hope this isn`t going to become a habit") and looks to be posing a threat but 'The Vikings' are here to do battle and take up the challenge once again.

Set Pieces!! You either defend against them well or 'Pay the Price' and unfortunately the latter became the undoing of the Wrens. Two corners, two goals; the first for Matt Bloor with about twenty minutes to go then Powell put the second to bed ten minutes later.

The game has really opened up and is finishing off in style for the paltry sixty seven who had braved the elements.

Goole`s evening finishes on a high as Simon Harrison picks the ball up some thirty odd yards out to the right, Joe McCormack could only look on as the ball whistled by him into the top left hand corner taking the net with it as he produces a 'Goals on Sunday' show-piece in the last minute. Three one and it`s "Game, Set and Match"!!.

So it`s back to the 'Drawing board' for Kev and the lads, lessons will have been learned and hopefully used to Rainworth`s advantage in future outings


My Men of the Match - Simon Harrison.for his 'Wonder Goal' and Mark Camm for the grass he covered.


Attendance - 67

Rainworth Mw 1 - 0 Lincoln United

Tuesday Night and Dudsey`s keeping an eye on tonight`s Evo-1 South results via Twitter, looking at what`s coming in Rainworth are really going to need three points against Lincoln United on Saturday to avoid being sucked back into the relegation Vortex.

Market Drayton turned round a one goal deficit at Leek to win 1-2 and Quorn have taken a point at Romulus keeping the pressure well and truly on Kev Gee`s side.

Another snippet to catch my eye is Belper Town welcoming 'Charlie Wier' to the fold, "Brigg didn`t hang on to him for long".

Charlie`s been joined at Christchurch Meadow by fellow ex Sheffield team mate Ashley Longstaff, ("a good return as he bagged one in Belper`s 0-3 win at Goole tonight").

0 - 0 at Ashby Avenue on the 24th of September leaves something of a 'Blank Canvas' for today, on the day Dudsey was very impressed with Lincoln`s Kallum Smith yet Rainworth were still without any producing strikers at that time so you`d like to think they would be in with a shout.

Fleming receives his Award

Since then Lincoln`s Terry Fleming has been awarded the Evo-Stik 1 South "Manager of the month"so it looks as though both teams have enjoyed a recent turn of fortune and will be looking to maintain it.

Unfortunately Joe McCormack suffered double fractures to his fingers at Brigg on Saturday so it`s real surprise to see him in the side today.

Hales has been drafted in and is on the bench just in case Joe has any difficulties this afternoon. Lee Cooksey makes the starting eleven in place of Ant Lynam who is also lying-in-wait.

It`s anything but a perfect day today, cold with very blustery wind so a show-piece encounter looks very unlikely and upon the start it looks like the weather has dampened the players spirits, other than two early chances from Nathan Adams and one for Jack McGovern the first half-hour is dross, it`s a very poor show and there`s a very strange atmosphere about the place, it`s almost 'Tumbleweed' stuff.

A Windy, scrappy and scruffy start.

Just as it`s looking like the first half is going to be a blank sheet Rainworth won back-to-back corners,  the first was dealt with by the reliable ex-Mansfield Town player Stuart Reddington.

The second one proved to be the break 'TheWrens' had been looking for, Ricky Hanson`s corner fell spot on for Skipper Steve Kennedy to nod over the line, 1-0 with five minutes of the first half to go.

Lincoln seemed unfazed by the goal, if anything it injected a bit of life into the closing spell of the first-half, Scott Coupland and the ever-lively Kallum Smith are sprung into action and the game seems to be gaining some desperately needed momentum but the whistle gets in the way and brings proceedings to a halt.

Coupland has a last minute push

One nil up with the wind behind their backs, you`d be expecting it to be a 'Breeze' for the home-side, "but it`s football and you can`t bet on a script in this game", and in the main the second half followed the pattern of the opening of the first, the first quarter of an hour was D-U-L-L.

Lynam replaces Cooksey just after the hour and nearly managed to change the pattern of the game with one of his signature 'low rocket' free-kicks which whistles to the left of Phil McGann`s goal.

From here on Nathan Adams stumbles upon a good spell and makes several charges down the left hand-side but struggles to replicate his recent solo goals and the game-play starts to swing in the other direction.

Rainworth look to capitalise on the lead

Jack McGovern`s free-kick nearly squared the game as McCormack seemed to have mis-judged the swirling wind and has to back-peddle to prevent the ball from dipping under the cross-bar.

Lincoln are looking for a point and player-manager Fleming is so anxious to salvage something from game he decides to take to the pitch, his presence and direction gets the visitors pumped up, Rainworth are backing off and inviting the visitors to press-on. 

About as high as the game got today!!

Tom Garrick must have had to look twice to see how on earth his header managed to go wide, thankfully it did and 'The Wrens' managed to 'Hold the Fort' and grab another three points.

So it`s three out of three for Rainworth, a less than convincing performance but 'Mother Nature' was always going to spoil the show today but some times you have to dig-in and 'Win Ugly' and it stills pays the same dividend, three points!!

No significant candidates for Man of the Match today. ("Where`s Mr Clarke when you need him"!!)

Attendance - 96

Brigg Town 0 - 4 Rainworth Mw

Yep it`s here again... can`t think of a better way to spend your Birthday than watching a game of Footie on a nice sunny November afternoon. "So why are we stuck on the A1 in a two mile tail-back watching the minutes tick away...!!

The only positive of arriving twenty minutes late is not being charged to get in...

I ask the Gateman if there`s any score? "We`re two goals down mate" he replies disappointedly, "Cheers Pal, you`ve made me feel loads better".......

'The Hawthorns' is one of those grounds Dudsey never tires of visiting, the stand is very well appointed, close to the touch-line and slightly elevated; making for an excellent vantage point without any obstructions.

A team-sheet is pinned to the cabin, gone are the names that destroyed `The Wrens` in the 6 -2 FA Cup mauling, Paul Grimes is producing the goods at Grantham, Danny Buttle has gone to Barton Town Old Boys and Bruno Holden has only just left to join 'Tommy Brookbanks' at Stamford.

One name Dudsey is surprised to see within 'The Zebra`s ranks is ex-Sheffield Fc player Charlie Weir, a decent acquisition by anybody`s standards.

Rainworth`s new Hero Nathan Adams has bagged one and a mix up between the keeper and the last defender has resulted in an own goal for 'The Wrens' second.

Playing in Dudsey`s favourite Red and White kit the visitors are in the ascendancy, Adams and Steve Akers are once again looking very lively but tbh the home-side look a shadow of their former selves, Weir stands out 'Head and Shoulders' above his team-mates in the first half.

"Bloody Rubbish"

There`s half a dozen entertaining 'Statler & Waldorf' type characters just sat to the right of us, old footballers who have 'been there and done it all' many moons ago, they`re far from impressed with their 'Beloved Briggs' offering today and they have it all sussed....

"It`s worst performance I`ve seen in fifteen seasons" one moans then minutes later another one pipes up, "The Manager`s bloody rubbish, these buggers (Rainworth) have only scored nine goals this season". The banter these old soldiers belt out is priceless, "Is this really my fate"...!!

Back on the field it looks as though 'The Wrens' are in little or no danger, "My! how things have changed over the last two outings," the final third of the pitch which was an anomaly is now full of activity, Lynam and the new lads are picking their positions out at will.

Brigg look for an opening.

Wondering if we were going to miss out on any more goal action was soon to be allayed, Adams picks up another scrappy Brigg ball and cue`s up Akers who is running in from the right and it`s three in the dying minutes of the first half, "Bloody Hell, we`re bottom of the table material" echo`s out from the 'Likely Lads', so it`s 0-3 going into the interval.

Brigg make two changes for the second half, Steve Cannon and Liam Smith are on to try to liven things up for the home side, with great effect in the main. A much more even contest is witnessed in the second half, Brigg are now playing with some purpose, Smith is creating some width and Charlie Weir is getting some decent service at last, Rainworth are having to absorb some real pressure.

Time to defend for The Wrens

Joe McCormack is now heavily involved in the game and takes a bad knock to his left hand and although he carries on he`s avoiding the use of it. Really a case of bad timing, Brigg`s chances are becoming evermore frequent but despite the injury Joe`s heroics are quickly winning even the 'Old Boy`s over.

Rainworth are keen to stem the tide and Lynam is replaced by Lee Cooksey and Ben Spargo replaces Akers upfront and both start posing a threat to 'The Zebra`s.

Adams makes another burst into the box and is up-ended, no shouts are required as Ref, Steve Wade points to the spot. Spargo steps up and blasts the ball beyond Woodhead, and at four nil it`s all over with.

Spargo buries the Spot-Kick

Full credit to the home-side for battling to the end but Rainworth`s turn of fortune seems to be more than a flash in the pan, for the second game in succession they finally seem to have turned a corner and are eventually heading in the right direction.

Whatever Kevin Gee has brought to Rainworth it certainly looks to be working, fluent football with an incisive edge to it and hopefully there will be more at home on Saturday.

My Men of the Match - Simply for his second-half heroics Joe McCormack and Charlie Wier for Brigg.

Attendance - 85

Admission - Freebie!!

Rainworth Mw 2 - 1 Leek Town

Forget Wembley.. If it`s entertainment you were after Kirklington Road was the place to be..!!

Leek Town, unbeaten on the road this season are definitely the 'Bookies' favourites by a 'Country Mile' so it`s a case of  "Nip over 'The Peaks' grab our three points and back to bed lads"...Erm, wait a minute!!.

Once again Rainworth proved to be the Staffordshire outfit`s 'Nemesis' as they did last season.

Dudsey`s maintained all along that the lack of a pacey striker and a stroke from 'Lady Luck' was all that was holding 'The Wrens' back and on this occasion both elements came together to provide a very satisfactory (if not a little nail-biting) result.

Followers will know no-one appreciates a pacey little striker more than me, a Massiah McDonald, Steve Woolley or Paul Grimes type of player, one who get`s you on the edge of your seat and at last I think Rainworth have found their`s in the form of Nathan Adam`s, the ex Lincoln City youngsters pace and enthusiasm for the game is a "breath of fresh air" for the 'Rainworth faithful'.

Our last Massiah!!

The first half is opened to a brisk pace, James McCarthy is tearing around like a 'Blue Arsed Fly' and looking to thread the ball through to Matthew Haddrell but once again Tommy Hannighan has been deployed to keep the main threat at bay. Haddrell is a 'Big Lad' but he`s got the touch and will take some containing.

Danny Bacon and Nathan are really starting to gel of recent and with the added bonus of Ian Clarke back in the side the forwards are enjoying some fluent link play, tbh with twenty five minutes gone it`s still anybody`s game, really good end to end stuff.

Just as the half hour approaches Adams is off, picking up the ball just outside the box and it`s beyond Danny Roberts reach, cheered on by a rapturous home-crowd and it`s 1-0 to the home-side.

Not all the entertainment is on the pitch though, Ian Clarke`s Mum and Dad are one of the best comedy duo`s since Compo and Nora Batty, they vocally express their thoughts and keep everyone well amused for the duration of the game. Mrs H is in stitches at their constant jibes but in all fairness they know the game inside-out.

Ex-Imp, Adams

Still on the high of his first goal Adams catches Ashley Wooliscroft dawdling on the ball,  he dispossesses him and runs out wide left, beating Roberts again from a near on impossible angle, 2-0, "the place is buzzing". 

Let`s not get too excited though, McCarthy and Matt Hadrell haven`t traveled this far to go home with empty pockets and continue to press until the half-time whistle blows.

Time for a Cuppa, Sky Sports is on in the tea-hut and Fabio is also enjoying an half-time lead (albeit via an own goal). Sheffield Fc are also 2-0 up at home to Kidsgrove and Staveley have taken the lead at Scarborough. Back out to see if the lads can capitalize on their first half advantage.....

Five minutes in and the whole half-time team-talk goes up in smoke....!!  Ian Clarke is involved in a tackle with Leek`s Christian Millar and tbh although I didn`t have a clear enough view to see what had gone off, the sight of Millar going down 'Drogba Style' (like he`d been hit by an 'Elephant Gun', clutching his face) certainly made the Ref`s mind up for him.

"If Clarkey raised an hand then he has to go but why decent players have to replicate the antics of the overpaid Premiership Mercenaries beats me". "Mr and Mrs Clarke are less than chuffed and decide to rack it up a notch from this point".

Plan B it is then.... Lynam off, Cooksey on and 'Shut up Shop', try to maintain possession and hit them on the break whenever possible. Although that`s the pattern of the half, the corner tally for Leek is relentless and sure enough Glyn Mellor manages to raise above the crowd and nod it beyond McCormack`s line,"2-1 with quarter of an hour left and my feet are twitching". 

Adams and Steve Akers try to break whenever possible but there`s too much work to do at the back, Edwards and McCarthy are battling for at least a point but despite an all out onslaught `The Wrens` hang on to a vital three points.

Make no qualms about it Leek Town are a decent side ladened with talent, James McCarthy, Matthew Hadrell and Oliver Edwards all know which way to kick a ball but on the night a solid first half then a case of "Defending like B**tards" earned Rainworth a long awaited victory.

It`s a shame Clarkey got his marching orders as it would have been nice to see what else Rainworth had in the locker, but no doubt they`ll happily take what they got.

Men of the Match - Rainworth, Nathan Adams and James McCarthy for Leek.

(Closely followed by Mr & Mrs Clarke).

Attendance - 81

Rainworth Mw 1 - 4 Ilkeston Fc

The Signs where there

A very spirited second half performance against Loughborough Dynamo a week last Tuesday night seemed to be "too little too late" for the management duo of Billy Millar and Lee Wilkinson.

After discussions with the Chairman the only solution to Rainworth`s downward spiral seemed to be a fresh approach and tbh although the faith hadn`t been totally lost by the supporters the statistics were pointing towards this eventuality.


First of all it`s only right that we welcome Kevin Gee to the club and wish him well and every success in his new appointment and a big thanks to Billy Millar and coach Darren Kelk who have now left the club, it`s a shame things didn`t work out for them in the Evo-Stik.

Full credit to Kevin for asking Wilko to stay on as his assistant, not only has Lee got a wealth of knowledge about the squad but he has been a great servant to the club over the years, 'Club Captain' and one of the best sweepers I`ve seen in my long stint as a supporter, rightly so he opted to remain involved with the club he has called home for many seasons.

So Kev picks up the reigns and theoretically his first game is a mammoth task, 'League Leaders' v 'Bottom of the Pile'...!

Formed from the demise of 'Ilkeston Town' in 2010, the newly named club are off to a flyer and it looks as though their occupancy in the Evo1 South is no long term residence, major investors are back on board with some good solid sponsors and with manager Kevin Wilson and coach Darren Caskey secured on a long term basis it looks as though 'The Ilson' mean serious business once again.

Ilkeston has a rich footballing past and anyone interested in local footballing history should take a peek at Ilkeston`s history website, it lists all previous players and more impressively the quality of manager the club has attracted over the years which shows the level of commitment and ambition the club has been so lucky to enjoy in the past.

With the promise of a bumper crowd due to Mansfield Town not being in action today Dudsey and Mrs H set out a little low on expectancy yet hopeful of a good afternoon out, "but you never know with football".....!!

We arrive with only a couple of minutes to spare to kick-off, "the place is buzzing", a really good crowd has descended on Kirklington Road and what a great atmosphere, admittedly most of them are from down the A610 but it sure makes for a good day out, they`re 'Beered Up' and here to enjoy themselves and all in very good spirit.

The 'Media Circus' had already made Gary Ricketts well known to all in the Mansfield area and an unusually excessive police presence was in attendance but within ten minutes of the start the thirty six year old powerhouse was being hallowed for what he does best, "own the pitch", you simply have to see this man play to appreciate his worth to Ilkeston.

Ilkeston press on.

Danny Bacon looks better every time he turns out but for me Nathan Adams` very industrious performance for me took Rainworth`s plaudit given the fact he is very new addition to the squad.. Ricky Hanson had another solid game despite unfortunately getting Ilkeston`s game underway as the ball is deflected off the back of his head and into his own goal 0-1 after twenty five minutes.

Despite twenty teams separating these two today no-one supporting Ilkeston in the stand is dismissing the valiant display 'The Wrens' are putting on. Bacon and Adams are supplying the home supporters with some inner belief and another fine pass tee`s up a teasing ball to Ant Lynam who just fails to connect with it.

Ricketts and Thomas` advances are troublesome to say the least, 'The Big Man`s' presence in the box is nearing total dominance although Tommy Hannighan is pulling out all the stops to try and keep him at bay.

A neat cross from James Cullingworth finds Ricketts in enough space to unleash a pile-driving header beyond Joe McCormack and it`s 0-2.

Rainworth plugged away at it but the sheer strength and presence of 'Ilson`s front two was too much, Ricketts pushes a neat pass to the feet of Thomas who failed at his first attempt but made no mistake as 'afters' where offered. 0-3 within the dying seconds of the first half and it`s curtains for 'The Wren`s.

Mind your head Pal..!! It`s two for 'Ilson'

The second half gave Dudsey and Mrs H the chance to take a stroll round the ground to catch up with a few friends, the most noticeable event of a predictable second half was the withdrawal of Ricketts, 'The Gladiator' was given a well deserved ovation on his departure.

Rainworth managed a consolation goal via a Mark Camm header in the last ten minutes, although there was a hint of off-side (two yards worth), "it proper worries me when linesmen fail to this degree".

Thomas had already missed one sitter minutes earlier but made amends with five minutes left as he smoothed out the 'Icing on the cake'.

You`d be forgiven for thinking that the scoreline indicated a one-way traffic affair and despite the eventual result Rainworth gave a good account of themselves, playing with a confidence that has been amiss in previous outings but they were simply outgunned today by a team who converts chances with great aplomb.

One distinct difference separated the teams this afternoon.....Gary Ricketts!, this 'Wily Old Fox' has more in his locker than Evo-Stik 1 status; strength, presence, awareness and good old 'Gamecraft'.  Not to take anything away from Daryll Thomas` two goals but the man in the No9 shirt is the one who definitely makes 'The Ilson' tick and the fans love him...

Probably a case of bad timing for Kev Gee`s appointment but hopefully Tuesday night`s upcoming game against Leek Town will give the lads a chance to shine, "one thing for sure, they won`t have 'Mr Ricketts".


Attendance - 353

Rainworth Mw 0 - 2 Coalville Town

Raven`s and Halloween!!

It`s been that long since Dudsey took in a match I`ve had to check up to see if the offside rule hasn`t been changed again, no excuses really Rainworth made the trip to Quorn on Tuesday night but chose not to travel (work and all that!!).

Thank God I saved some diesel money and a bucket full of frustration on that one, two nil up after thirteen minutes and chucked it down the pan, no wonder the forum seems a little vitriolic.

Forever the optimists we set off in hope to see if Rainworth can have a turn of fortune against today`s visitors. Looking at the team-sheet leaves me scratching my head a little, club captain Steve Kennedy is available but on the bench.....!!


Coalville Town are nicknamed "The Ravens", a bird who is closely associated with bad luck, this shouldn`t phase the `Rainworth Faithful` too much, good luck is something that hasn`t landed in this neck of the woods since mid-August. "Talking of the faithful"..... there`s not many of them here today, in fact it looks like the home supporters are outnumbered by about three to one.

Coalville take the kick-off and look to challenge the Wrens defence immediately via a lively looking Matthew Moore; Rainworth`s reply is pretty woeful, the usual dependable defence are in tatters and their inability to string two passes together fails to instil any confidence into my optimism.

Upfront Sean Cann, Danny Bacon and "newbie" Nathan Adams are trying to create openings but everything behind them in support is well below par today, aimless swipes at the ball result in possession being far too easily surrendered.

Timo`s got his hands full today, literally!!

Coalville`s No 11 (Anthony Carney) is sidling down the left flank and the visitors are picking up corner after corner, it`s only a matter of time before someone connects with one of the decent crosses being offered.

Not only do they seem well structured but they have a general awareness of each other and sure enough another corner allows Shane Rowlston to make one count in the nineteenth minute, heading the in-swinger beyond  Joe McCormack, 0-1.

Rowlston nods it home 0-1

Rainworth are plugging away at it but I don`t know what`s wrong here today, there seems to be a strange feel about the place, "sort of flat if you know what I mean", the lads are quiet and there is a definite lack of atmosphere.

Cann makes a good rush into the box but the semi-redundant Bowles in Coalville`s goal makes a perfectly timed dive to the feet of the Rainworth striker to deny him the chance of pulling the trigger, Sean`s not so convinced and remonstrates his penalty plea, but there`s nothing doing and that`s how it remains until half-time.

Bowles dispossesses Cann.

Dudsey`s pondering if there`s a way back for Rainworth during the break, a good dose of inspiration will have to be administered in the changing room, but it`s not impossible, well not until the fifty first minute.

The home side had the first decent chance after the restart as Mark Camm forced Bowles to make a decent save, seconds later Carney was making another good charge down the left, he threads a low ball into a busy box where Danny Quinn produced the neatest of back flicks to beat McCormack, 0-2.

It really is above The Wrens heads today.

With little in the way of hope, Rainworth decide to make changes and Coalville are quick to follow suit, unfortunately two of the subs are involved in a premature ending to the game, Lee Briggs is involved in a rather innocuous challenge which resulted in the very nimble Ryan Robbins falling awkwardly and in need of an ambulance. (Lets hope the lad is Ok). With only seconds left to play the Ref calls time early.

Despite the second goal putting the game well and truly beyond The Wrens Dudsey has to commend Nathan Adams for his efforts today but the statistics speak for themselves that Rainworth have real work to do to avoid the drop zone.   We`ll See....!!

My Men of the Match, 

Anthony Carney for Coalville and Nathan Adams for Rainworth.

Attendance 154.

A proud night for local football!!

Sky Sports Victory Shield - England U16s 3 - 1 Northern Ireland U16s

"The Young Ranger" (Braden, my lad), started with Shirebrook Rangers as an nine year old with a group of friends from Whaley Thorns Primary School; Cody, Carlton, Matt and Mason, just a bunch of kids enjoying a kick about and a sense of belonging.

Dudsey used to pick up the Langwith contingent for Team Managers; Wayne, Nige & Brett for the training session at Park Road Recreation Ground, they`d pile out of the car, slip on their gleaming little boots and strolled over to the pitch to enjoy their footie, the banter was quality!

After the session was over they would jump back into the car (usually with half the pitch on their boots) and make our way back home, they used to drive me up the wall, the electric windows were up and down, the radio was on full blast as soon as a favourite tune came on...Bless em!.

Shirebrook Rangers U9`s - 2006  (Mason top right)

After a couple of months watching the rebels develop, a couple of the lads show some real promise, but one lad really begins to stand out; he has an uncanny skills, his spacial awareness is incredible and plays he the game in a very mature manner for his age. Mason has no idea how gifted he is, others have though!  We talked about Mason constantly, yet, as far as he`s concerned he`s just doing something he loves with his schoolmates. If only he knew what we saw back then.

Although Mason hadn`t slipped under the radar (both Chesterfield and Notts Forest had made previous enquiries), the second they mentioned ditching Shirebrook Rangers Mason said "Nah", playing with his best mates was all he wanted to do.

We watched in awe every Saturday as he worked his magic in the Mansfield Chad Youth League. People used to say "where has he learn that", that`s just it; "he hasn`t ! Ironically he was a central defender back then, along-side our Rughead (very good at it too), nothing slipped the lads eyes and was having none of it when Wayne suggested he should try playing up front.

After a couple more months the interest in him was becoming more frequent. Eventually one day a scout from Derby County turned up to have a look at this talented kid from Langwith; he sidled up between me and Mason`s Nana and began to ask questions regarding Mason. After the game, the scout had had discussions with Wayne and Mason`s Nana, eventually they had to sit Mason down and explain that perhaps it was time to take for him to take his opportunity.

Good Luck Mason

The day he left Shirebrook Ranger`s, we all crammed into the changing room at Shirebrook. He was presented with his leaving present `A Man Utd shirt` and a spraying of something wet and fizzy. Thinking back it all seemed a bit embarrassing really; grown men and women openly crying.... not so much an ending but the beginning of something very special.

The B2Net stadium at Chesterfield hosts the Sky Sports Victory Shield U16`s International England against Northern Ireland, and guess who`s in the line up!!

"How often does a lad from this area get to play for his country?, tonight is the answer, and it couldn`t have happened to a nicer lad. The "Young Ranger" has already heard from Mason earlier today and he`s starting the game. Great news!

Mason in action for Derby

Five years on, after refusing trials with Chesterfield and Forest; simply because he didn`t want to let his mates down he is now the talk of Derby County`s academy and it looks like he is causing a stir at an higher level too.

Tonight seems so surreal, in the last couple of seasons prior to Mason`s departure I can`t count the times whilst stood on the sideline we said "If we don`t see Mayo on the telly one day"..........

The B2Net is under siege, no less than 350 tickets have been distributed by Shirebrook Rangers and it looks like half the Academy is here, the PA announces that a very healthy 4126 are in attendance tonight. This place is a credit to Chesterfield Borough Council and the developers, the place is immaculate and the playing surface is a dream.

The Teams emerge from the tunnel, Mayo is wearing the 10 shirt. As the National Anthem plays Dudsey is rushed by Goose Pimple`s, Mrs H is also on an emotional high, the "Young Ranger" is beaming with pride at the sight of his mate enjoying on of his finest moments and even ` The Little Chic` who "doesn`t do football" is up and clapping. This is one proud moment for the "H" household.

"Send her Victorious" (Mason No 10)

The game turns out to be as magical as it was surreal, if you wanted to write a script you couldn`t have dreamt for anything better than the outcome. A blistering run down the right see`s Mason cross a lovely ball in for Lewis Cook (Leeds United) who just manages to push it wide left.

Mason then set up the first goal with an inch perfect through ball to Conor Hunt (Chelsea) who took his goal perfectly in the 17th minute.

England conceded a very sloppy goal just before half-time, Connor Ogilvie (Spurs) slipped allowing Jamie McDonagh to dodge round Man City`s, Angus Gunn (son of Bryan) and sneak it in cheekily off the near post

The second half gets underway and the fairytale starts to unfold, within minutes of the restart, Conor Hunte repays the favour and crosses a lovely ball for Mason to tap home, the place erupts as he takes his 1st goal.

Minutes later, substitute Oluwaseyi Ojo (MK Dons) makes a cracking run in from the left and lofts a ball in just over the Irish defence for the "local hero" to nod into the goal, 3-1 and the game is beyond the reach of the Irish lads but they still try to make a game of it.

Sonupe and Mason in action at the B2Net.

We arrive home and watch the match again, we all sit there transfixed "it really does take some sinking in "Mason`s on Sky Sports" and to be honest it looks like it`s the first of many.

Some decent performances for England`s youngsters tonight, Skipper Rubens Loftus-Cheek made a good showing as did Leeds United`s Lewis Cook and Angus Gunn looked like a "Chip off the old block". But the true star of the show is wearing No10, so with Sir Trevor Brooking looking on, Mason has unknowingly probably just sailed through the only interview he`ll ever have.

Anyone wanting to know Dudsey`s favourite Fairytale? "You`ve just read it!

I know it`s easy to say, but if one young fella deserved a crack at a decent club....it`s Mason. A lovely, humble and well mannered lad whenever you are in his company or if he dropped in for tea.


Wishing you all the best for the future Mason.  Love from  D, K, B & I.

Rainworth Mw 1 - 2 Hucknall Town - FA Trophy Preliminary Round

A day away from the Evo-Stik is exactly what the doctor ordered, another defeat at the hands of league leaders Sheffield Fc on Tuesday night has added to Rainworth`s woes, although not totally outplayed they were definitely out-gunned again, on this occasion by Ashley Longstaff `s wondergoal and Matt Glass` early second half strike.

It`s four games since the ball hit the back of the net from a Wren`s boot and twelve games without a win in all competitions.

Hucknall are enjoying a bit of mixed form this season but still remain a respectable fifth in the league and have already taken three points from Rainworth at Watnall Road on Bank Holiday Monday.

There`s two grand up for grabs today with a trip to Leek Town beckoning in the next round, no doubt Hucknall will be very eager to secure some much needed funding whilst Rainworth will be more concerned about giving the fans something to cheer about......or not moan about I suppose!!

That`s more like it!!

Mansfield Town have loaned two "Young Bloods" to Rainworth in an attempt to get the season rolling again in the goal department.

Ex-Wrens, James Jepson and Matty Baxter now ply their trade for Hucknall and are always received with a warm welcome, these two have turned out some cracking performances for the Wrens in the past and know every blade at Kirklington Road.

The game gets off to a quick start on a very slick surface due to constant drizzle, any idea of Rainworth having any domination would be a little naive, Hucknall have some quality players and it`s Aiden Brady and Grant Ryan who are looking for a break with some good link play provided by Matty Baxter.

Baxter pushes Rainworth`s defence

Rainworth are looking much better shape-wise, Danny Bacon looks a lot more fluid on the ball, Mark Camm is all over the pitch as usual and "Young Stag", Joel Holland looks very accomplished on the ball, finding himself some decent space wide left, (Dudsey`s not too sure about starting Lavell instead of Sean Cann though).

The home side do start to enjoy a good spell of play and it looks as though they can trouble the visitors, Young Joel has instantly won some respect from the home faithful, disappointingly for Hucknall Jared Holmes limped off after taking a knock, being replaced by Kieran Watson who adds pace and width to the game.

Rainworth are making a good game of it.

Several good attempts by either side keep everyone on the edge of their seats in what is turning out to be a good end to end game, right back Keiran Walker is having a good game for Hucknall and is keeping Ryan well supplied.
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The Wrens look better every time they turn out but Dudsey has one concern today; on a few occasions a suicide pass has occurred but luckily they either managed to retrieve it or Joe McCormack did the business, "but why put yourselves under such pressure".

Rainworth look as likely to score as they ever have but Wayne Duik has his back four thinking as a unit and when they do get untangled the tall figure of Jack Harvey is able to make amends, ("he`s filling in very well for Jimmy Lindley"). Neither side manages to find the net in the first half so it`s all square at the break
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Harvey has his eye on the ball

Dudsey starts the second half by the railings close to the action, Rainworth had the first run at goal but another suicide ball gifted Ryan with a chance to good to miss and he didn`t 0 -1 after only five minutes of the restart.

For want of better words the game entered what can only be described at "The Nat Watson Show"; what Nathan produced over the next twenty minutes was truly inspiring, such a shame he wasn`t rewarded with a goal of his own.

Lee Briggs gets the unenviable task of retrieving the ball 0-1

Watson is on fire and unless someone takes control the game is soon going to be beyond Rainworth`s grasp, another foray see`s him twist and turn his way into the box blasting the ball directly at McCormack, Joe could do no more than palm the ball out towards Ryan, fortunately for Rainworth he scores from an offside position.

It`s looking like squeaky bum time for the home side, Hucknall are enjoying good possession all-over the park, Nat and his brother Kieron are running the show down the left and Jeppo`s having a field day down the right flank, threading the ball through to Lloyd and Ryan.

Common sense prevails and Rainworth decide to make some much needed changes, Lavell White is replaced by Sean Cann, and Young Joel is replaced by his Mansfield counterpart Adam Somes.

Somes` towering figure makes an immediate impact

On this occasion Rainworth`s changes are bang on, Cann and Somes have completely upset the balance for Hucknall, Sean hits a rasper from close range and it looks as though the lads are back in business. Cann has another run from the right and threads a low ball across the face of goal but no-one is close enough to put a toe to it.

Just as it looks that a goal and a possible replay is on the cards Hucknall break down the right, Lloyds sneaks a perfect pass to the feet of Brady who makes little effort to beat McCormack, 0-2 with ten minutes left.

As far as Hucknall are concerned it`s "Game, Set and Match". Watson is withdrawn to let him receive a rapturous round of applause. "Dudsey doffs his cap to this one, Top Draw son!"

The only consolation for the Rainworth faithful was the ever elusive goal, Somes connected with a sweet cross from Camm and heads it beyond Harvey, 1-2 with about five minutes left including stoppages.

The big lad creates some space for himself

Hucknall`s fans seem on edge and are eager for the Ref to blow time and after one more last ditch chance for Cann they get their whistle.

Another disappointing result for the lads despite finding the net, a good overall performance despite a few sloppy passes, surely a much deserved win can`t be far off!!

My men of the Match - Hucknall - Nathan Watson -Awesome!!   Rainworth - Danny Bacon/Ricky Hanson

Attendance - 124.

As far as the Wrens go it`s a three week Blog break for Dudsey until the next home game, unless I pop-up somewhere else!!