Foxes Triumph in Girls' School Tournament

This will come as no surprise to the mums but it looks like our girls have what it takes to win. The boys have some catching up to do.

On a bright but blowy afternoon the School entered two teams in a festival of football organised by the Gloucester FA at Coombe Dingle. Other schools involved were Colstons, Hotwells, St Johns, Elmlea and Bishop Road.

We split the girls into two squads - one taken by Mr Ewens was a mixture of five year four girls and five year threes. The year three girls were either lapsed Foxes (Molly R, Erin) or new to football (Jemima, Ella C and Issy). Most left keen to join the Foxes every Saturday.

This squad won one, drew one and lost three. Maddy and Olivia stood out amongst the year fours and all of the year threes did really well with Issy showing good timimg with her tackles.

The other squad were all Foxes (Emily T, Emily C, Ann D, Anna R, Sophie M, Sophie HR, Sophie C, Phoebe M, Marielle) with a guest appearance by Saffy. Going into the last game we had won three and drawn one. Goals from Saffy, Emily T and Sophie M had seen us through. The final game against Elmlea was a winner take all and the Foxes had all of the possession with Emily C not seeing the ball in our goal. A well taken goal by Emily T, many good chances and a great all round performance saw us end up winning 1-0.

How good was that. Better than working any day.

Year Three Boys v Bishop Road

Well, well well. After the sterling performance against Rockleaze the boys came down to earth with a bump against a well organised Bishop Road. In all we drew one and lost three. Mmm.

This may have been a fixture too far for our battle-weary squad, although they were a little bit unlucky too. We picked the same squads as those that saw service against Rockleaze but with the addition of Sebastian and (making a guest appearance) Ollie Swales.

In game played by Graham's squad we lost 3-0. We were quickly 2-0 down through two fairly unlucky ricochet/deflection goals and never really got going. Ollie K was by far our best player on the pitch. The second game was also lost 3-0.

After a well fought 1-1 draw the second game played by Dave's squad saw us on the wrong end of an excellent game 2-3. We were 3-1 down at half time because Bishop Road's best player, scored two outstanding goals, including one lob from near the half way line. In the second half we attacked them constantly and had almost all the possession, but couldn't hit the target: we had too many speculative long shots, and we need to work on corners (at least half were shanked out for goal kicks). The highlight was when Max kept his cool to slot in from close range, and bring it back to 2-3.

One more game to go before a well-earned easter break.

Year 2 Foxes run Rockleaze close 14 March

20 little Foxes gambolled in the spring sunshine and came within a whisker of beating Rockleaze. The players were split into two evenly-balanced squads to play 4 matches against well-organised and fair-spirited opposition.

The Green squad played two highly enjoyable and entertaining matches. Both games were very closely fought and despite some good chances, both ended 0-0. Some particularly fine goal keeping and dogged defending from William LP, Matthew, Eddie, Oskar and Stanley. The Foxes also kept Rockleaze on their toes with Henry, Josh, Isaac and TJ all playing an active role up front. Stanley earnt MOTM for some particularly valuable last minute defending which ensured the Foxes kept a clean sheet.

Squad - William LP, Josh, Oskar, Caleb, Isaac, Matthew, Eddie, TJ, Henry and Stanley.
MOTM - Stanley

The Orange squad had a bit of a dozy start in the warm sunshine. A lack of concentration and marking, combined with some fine dribbling skills from Rockleaze, meant we were 0-3 down by half time in the first match. An "encouraging" chat put things right, and soon Jago had delivered a fine ball from a corner for Harrison to thump home. Despite losing two more goals, including a bizarre one when goalkeeper Felix made a strong clearance only for the ball to rebound off the only attacker, the Foxes continued to press hard. Eventually a break from half way saw Harrison in the clear with the inevitable result. A moral victory in the second half (score 2-2) but overall a loss 2-5.

In the second Orange squad game we played 8 a-side so that everyone could get more of a match. Despite the lack of space, everyone tried their hardest, tackling well, getting back to defend and looking to pass when they could. Jack had a blinding game in defence, clearing all before him, Ludo toiled away up front with some excellent dribbling, Teya, Billly, William W. and Sam all got stuck in and Jago, Joseph and Felix ran for everything. Despite going 0-1 down, the Foxes came back strongly, and eventually Harrison took his goal tally to 3 with a looping shot. Again, Foxes were possibly the stronger but couldn't quite convert pressure into goals. Result 1-1.

Squad - Felix, Teya, Billy, Harrison, Ludo, Jack, Jago, Joseph, Wiliam W, Sam.
MOTM - Jack

Overall a delightful day - good performances against strong opposition and all played in a lovely atmosphere. Three cheers for the Foxes...

Year 5 boys & girls share spoils with Bishop Road

It was a lovely day at Redland Green on Saturday as the year 5 Foxes took on Bishop Road. The girls were without a fixture and so we sent out mixed teams. Honours were even with 2 wins and 2 defeats and 9 goals scored by both clubs.

The first matches saw a narrow 3-2 defeat (Ben and Hugo scoring for the Foxes) and a 1-0 victory (Oliver W finally breaking the deadlock after a number of chances were created by the Foxes). In the second round of games we went down 2-5 (Gabe getting both goals) and won 4-1 (with Ben getting two, Hugo and Jack also scoring and Tilly playing a great game in defence).

Overall we were at our best when we passed the ball rather than taking on defenders single-handed and all the coaches came away feeling we have to work on this part of our game. But we scored some lovely goals and made some great moves so there is plenty to build upon. We are away at Coombe Dingle next week which is our last fixture for a while allowing the boys to prepare for the Thornbury tournament on 10 May.

The teams were:

Paul's team: Annabelle, Ellie, Eddie, Gabe, Oliver D, Oliver W, Aydin, Kris, Joe
Martin's team: Tilly, Marta, Hugo, Ben, Harvey, Adam, Jack, Danny J, Jamie


Up the Foxes!

Y3 Girls Go Football Crazy!

St Nicks 3 – 0 Westbury Park Foxes Y3 Girls

“Wow, they’ve improved since we last played you – barely recognise them!”
Admiration from the St Nicks Manager was richly deserved. In fact, the Y3 Foxettes could justly feel robbed by the 3-0 scoreline against us.

Every week this team plays their best football yet, and today was another milestone.

“Go for it!” was the cry, commitment the aim. And no-one disappointed. In defence, Ella and Sophie HR made some great tackles, and chased every loose ball. In goal, Emily C had another blinder, saving several strong shots and clearing well.

Without Bryony in goal, the score would have been in double figures. Towards the end, St Nicks threw all their best players on and the Foxes came under sustained attack. But Bryony’s sure safe hands kept them out, to the annoyed amazement of the St Nicks’ supporters.

Up front, we really should have scored. Some great constant pressure from Sophie Mc, Anna D and Emily T had the ball everywhere in their box except, just, the back of the net. Next time girls!

Phoebe and Molly showed their versatility, playing right up front or digging deep in defence.

Mention must be made too of the fab travelling supporters. A long journey out into the wilds of Chipping Sodbury couldn’t keep our great cheerleaders away, and they cheered, encouraged, and bit their nails throughout!

It was a game of many subs, but not a single weak link. There is now serious pressure to get in this side, with a dozen regulars challenging for a place. And they are no longer happy just to play. Even against quality opposition like St Nicks, the Y3 girls are happy with nothing less than victory.

It will come girls, it’ll come!
In their own words: “We’ve gone completely football crazy, football mad!!!”

Year 4 Away Match vs. Bishop Rd - Sat 21st March '09

This Saturday Year 4 have an away match aganst Bishop Road, please be there at 10am in full kit, shin pads & boots. Their pitch is at the cul-de-sac end of Beauchamp Road which is off Bishop Rd.

Y5 Girls Best Ever (Sponsored by Haribo) Foxes 2-2 BLUs

Saturday saw the Y5Gs facing the BLUs away at Coombe Dingle. Due to an unexpected Birthday Party the BLUs were unable to field 2 teams, so we settled on a long 9 a side game. This went a long way to nullify the disadvantages of the huge BLUs home pitch for this age group, and meant that close control, skill on the ball and short neat passing would be essential, rather than relying on the skills of a few pacey talented individuals.
The game started brightly, with the Foxes playing down the hill. Both sides produced some neat football, but crossing and finishing were less than clincal. Conkers had little more than routine stops, whilst at the other end, we were a little slow to the ball in the box.
The second half produced some of the finest football the girls have played. Unfortunately it took a great individual goal from one of the BLUs to spark us off. In previous games the loss of a goal has led to heads dropping and a blame culture prevailing, but this time the girls restarted with determination, repeatedly conter attacking with swift, slick passing, before Jodie strode into the box to clincally finish. The contest then swung from end to end, before, with 4 minutes remaining, the Blues went back in front with a carbon copy of their first solo effort. All in the stands thought that would be it, but once more the determined Foxes contined to pass their way through the BLUs and Jodie again found herself on the end of the move to equalize.
A thoroughly entertaining game, with a draw a fair reflection on two evenly matched teams.

The Girls then played a short 7 a side game against the BLUs U9's with most of the girls playing out of position. 1-0 to the Foxes, with a solo effort from Ellie Bonkers Conkers, her second goal in as many weeks. Not bad for a 'keeper.....

Year Three Girls Score Against the BLUs - Twice!

The squeals echoed round Coombe Dingle when our brave Foxettes found the back of the BLU (Rockleaze, as was) net. A thoroughly marvelous moment for the ever growing army of Y3 girls and their strong support. And it happened not once but twice. Whole team efforts on both occasions, and great rewards for an hour of non-stop grafting.

OK, so the BLUs found the back of our net a few times too, but this was a training game, not a match, and your correspondent failed to count fully… We also consider many of their goals, scored by a Foxes defector, to be ours by right. (Come Back, Saffy!)

Thirteen plucky players turned out in the green and white, all clamouring for a game; proof that the Y3 girls are getting the footie bug big time. There were some extraordinary saves from Anna R, Emily C and Bryony and resilient defending from the likes of Emily T, Sophie HR, Sasha, Anna R, and Ella. Anyone who has seen the BLUs in action will know they have three players destined for stardom who kept our girls under constant pressure, but wave after BLU wave was repelled.

In the midfield, Sophie Mc, Phoebe and Anna D ran like their lives depended on it, chasing balls and pushing up again and again. They were ably reinforced by our latest new recruits playing their first match, Marielle, Molly and Sophie C. None were phased by the occasion – one of the biggest in the fixture list.

The first goal came after minutes of sustained pressure in the BLU box. Every time they cleared, the Foxy midfield pumped the ball back in again. Eventually the attack was just too strong and Anna D’s boot found the back of the net. You could hear her dad all the way to Blaise Castle.

The second was a tribute to a new tactic: passing. Anna R and Sophie HR started the move in defence, passing up to Emily T who took the ball up the right. Sophie Mc found space in the box and, like a premiership pro, Emily looked up, saw her and crossed. You almost felt sorry for the Blu goalie.

Almost.

Bearing in mind the “Bristol Ladies United” recruit from the whole of Bristol and the Foxettes from just 30 girls, the four quarters we played were remarkably well matched.

“We’ll never think about the score”, one Foxette remarked before play, “we’ll just play every ball and try our best to score goals or save them”.

Message for the England team maybe?”

Year Three vs Rockleaze Rangers

What a great morning of football. Blue skies, the smooth playing surface at RGS and a series of great performances against Rockleaze.

The Foxes were split into two squads that ended up playing 6 a-side because Rockleaze only brought 12 players. In the first round of games the Foxes won both 1-0.

Dave T's team struggled early on, seemingly lacking the belief that they could actually beat Rockleaze. In the first half both Barney and especially Harri TD had exceptional games and kept the Foxes in the hunt. In the second half the Foxes came out intent on pushing for the win and in the closing moment Raul got on the end of a lovely through ball from Alec to coolly slot home.

Graham's team won a hard fought game through a well taken goal from Sonny. There were good performances throughout the team and we deserved the win.

In the second round, Graham's team well and truly clicked to win 3-0. Two great goals from Omar and a third from Danny, supplied by Omar. The passing in the this game matched the high points of the Ashley Down games - but this time we remembered to tackle too.

Dave T's team lost the final game 3-0 but if we had kept out a couple of very soft goals the margin would have been much closer.

All round the Foxes did a great job, taking the lessons from the last couple of weeks and pulling together our best performance of the season. It is difficult to pick any players in particular but after much thought two defenders take the honours: Harri TD and Owen for outstanding team work in all of the games.

Well done everyone.

Year 5 boys find tough going at Rockleaze

Our year five boys team came unstuck against a strong Rockleaze side in an away fixture which was hotly contested. We played no less than six matches again dividing into two squads. In the first the Foxes went down 3-0, conceding two first half goals from very well-taken set pieces. In the second we lost 2-0 although we created 5 or 6 great chances which were just wide of goal. The third game saw the Foxes go down 2-0 though once again we created a number of great chances and were unlucky not to score.
Just when it seemed that we would never get a goal Hugo scored a magnificent first half hat-trick in the next game with two strong runs from midfield both finished in great style and an extraordinary lob over the keeper from the half-way line - one of the most amazing goals ever scored by a Foxes player. We conceded a late goal in the first half but held on in a scoreless second half to win 3-1.
The fifth game as a hotly contested 0-0 draw with Ben playing an outstanding match and being denied a goal only by the woodwork and an unlucky bounce. In the last match a tiring Foxes team went down 2-0.
So after all our great performances over the last two weeks we went down against a good Rockleaze side. But Paul and Andy saw enough from the matches to feel confident about the tournaments coming up. We will have to work hard over the next few weeks but we believe we have the players to keep the Foxes very competitive in May when we compete in our first tournament at Thornbury!

Year 4 vs. Rockleaze - Sat 14th March '09

This Saturday we have a home match against Rockleaze Rangers on The Downs, so please be there at 10am with full kit, shin pads & boots.

Year 2 Foxes are checked by Ashley Down on 7 March

What a difference a week makes.  

In a re-arranged fixture, the Downs saw 18 little Foxes take on 9 players from Ashley Down, and struggle. Was it the windy conditions? Was it a hangover after the euphoria of last week's goal-fest? Was it a basic error by their coach - agreeing to games of 9 a-side so that everyone could play without subs? Whatever the cause, the fixture got off to a bad start.

In a sometimes quite rough game, the first Foxes team came unstuck.   The Foxes tried their hardest to play skillful, passing football, but were constantly surrounded by a herd of opposition players who followed wherever the ball led.  With no space and no time, the result was not pretty. Several times the Foxes were through on goal only to shoot straight at the keeper, who did well to save all that was thrown at him.  By contrast, lapses in concentration left Ashley Down players unmarked in very forward positions, with predictable consequences. Despite having 6 or 7 excellent chances to score, we lost 0-5.  Not a fair reflection of the match and all the hard work put in by everyone, but a lesson to be learnt.

Team - Brody, William LP, Toby, Eddie, Teya, Jago, TJ, Jack, Joseph

Having seen the opposition's game plan in action, the second  Foxes team came out better prepared and raring to go. In another fiercely contested match, the Foxes held the upper hand throughout.  Again crowding round the ball by the opposition made it very difficult to find any space to pass.  But after prolonged pressure the Foxes scored.  Felix took a well-earned corner and Harrison, having timed his run to perfection, smashed the ball into the net. We were ahead 1-0.  More chances followed but as none were put away, we were always vulnerable.  Despite some superb defence, especially by our newcomer, Billy, we conceded an equaliser late in the second half. The final score of 1-1 was probably a generous result for Ashley Down.  

Team - Caleb, Josh, Sam, Matthew, Henry, Harrison, Stanley, Felix, Billy 

Goal Scorer - Harrison

Overall, everyone tried really hard to play exciting, passing football but there were just too many players on the pitch (I still blame the coach!).  We'll know better next time. 

Man of the Match - Billy

Year three v Ashley Down, 7th March

This set of games should have been played just after Christmas but either rain, snow or plague (I can't actually remember which - it may have been a combination of all three) caused a postponement. So the sunshine of Saturday morning saw the Foxes travel all the way to Mueller Road and play some lovely football to draw three and lose one by the odd goal in five.

Both of the squads were under strict instruction to get their heads up and pass the ball (see the report for the Bishop Road game if you want to know why). Against all the odds the Foxes really tried to put this brand new idea into action. In the process they may have forgotten to put the usual effort into tackling but you can't have everything.

Ewan's team drew both of their games the first 1-1 (Barney scoring) and the second 3-3 (Barney again, Sam L and Jacob). In both games we gave away soft goals so there was the slight feeling of disappointment that we did not win both.

The second team were jointly managed by (the cool-headed) Dave T and (the virtual stranger after two weekends away and a couple of weekends with the year three girls) Andy. Both were astonished, staggered, knocked-sideways, etc, etc by some of the passing moves in the first half of the first game. Even Danny and Sonny were picking the right time to pass and the right to hold on to the ball. Our first goal was a wonder shot from the half way line by Danny, who then turned provider with a cool pass to Omar. Ashley Down muscled there way back into the game and again some sleepy defending allowed them to pull it back to 2-2. Special mention should go to Harry F who took a nasty knock in goal in the second half.

The second game was very exciting, the Foxes lost 3-2 but again tried to move the ball around. Ashley Down played with passion and pace and took a three - one lead, their second and third goals resulting from some soft tackling. As usual, however, the Foxes never gave up and a great shot from Danny resulted in Omar scoring from a parried save. Danny then scored again, Omar hit the post and several goal mouth scrambles could have led to an equaliser.

Although the coaches were disappointed not to win at least one of the games we were really pleased with the display of passing and movement. Now if we can only get the team to do that and that tackling-thing we should be ok.

Year Three vs Bishop Road, 28th February

On the super smooth surface of the astro at RGS the year three boys took on the might of Bishop Road. Four games in total that saw the Foxes winning 2, drawing 1 and losing 1. Dave T and Simon masterminded both victories, the first 1-0 (Barney scoring) and the second 2-0(Sam L got both).

In the first game we had the best of this game in both halves and If Dave T's memory is serving him right we must of had 10-12 corners in the match. Overall we played some good football but suffered from not knowing when to release the ball especially on the break. Barnabus scored in a goalmouth scramble and then, in the stereotypical image of the great Italian sides, we shut up shop and settled for the 1-0 scoreline. We should have pressed for more and a good team effort would have been improved by better passing in the last third.

In the second game Bishop Road had some good chances and passed the ball well, but we won because our defenders defended doggedly and we took our goals well. Sam L's first goal was a very well struck low curler from just outside the box, the second was more of a follow-through on a parry from their keeper.

Graham's team lost their first game and drew the second 1-1. We had a squad of 9 to Bishop Road's 6 by that time, so we sportingly lent them a player, and Jack C (ex-Bishop Road) volunteered, then promptly scored their opener. Will we never learn!!!!!

The Foxes fought back well though, and a swift break was well-finished off when Raul laid the final ball for Sonny to blast in. After that, we could have had a hatful if there had been similar passing in the final third.

Good football played in good weather on a good surface. So that's good then. Passing seems the area where work is needed and keeping the ball out of the allotments would help too. But just not in the same way.

Well done everyone.

Year 5 boys enjoy three more wins at Ashley Down

For the second week running the year 5 boys played extremely well winning all three matches against Ashley Down. Once again we split into two squads and for the third match the first squad played the first half and the second squad played the second.
In the first game Andy’s team got off to a winning start going 4-0 up in the second half with goals from Eddie, Harvey, Jamie and Ben. Harvey’s in particular was a ripsnorter: a cracking volley on the turn that nearly took the net off the goalposts and Jamie deserved his goal with a great run getting past four players. Adam also played very well in defence. The Foxes conceded two late goals to win 4-2.
The second game started slowly for the Foxes and Sam was the only scorer before half-time with a shot (or was it a pass, Sam?) from the halfway line that Tom didn’t get on the end of but did put the goalie off enough to see the ball across the line. Hugo also pulled off a fantastic diving save. The second half was a different story. Oliver W netted after 15 seconds and went on to score a hat-trick, Hugo bagged two more after coming out of goal and Tom performed heroics in the Foxes goal as Ashley Down tried in vain to score. Final score 6-0.
The third game saw Andy’s squad score three goals in the first half from Eddie (a lob over the keeper latching onto a good through ball), Kris (a well taken shot) and Jamie (sliding in at the far post after a brilliant run and assist from Ben. We didn’t add to our goals in the second half although Joe, Gabe, Hugo and Eddie came very close in a 3-0 win.
Next week we face a strong Rockleaze side away from home and we know we will be tested. But the boys are confident after seven straight wins and some great passing moves in the process.
Thanks to Ashley Down for once again being great hosts and to all the mums and dads who valiantly stayed for the third game even though the sun had gone in and the north wind started to blow…

Fixtures Update

Please be aware that the fixtures list on this Blog has been updated to include a couple of new games for the girls and details of the tournaments we have entered for the summer.

In particular, the Westbury Park V Henleaze Tournment (followed by the dads v dads match) will take place at Henleaze School on Sunday April 26. (More details later.)

Also:
May 9: Thornbury Tournament (Boys Y3, Y4, Y5)
May 30/31: St Nicks Tournament
June 14: Rockleaze Tournament (Boys Y2, Y3, Y4. No Y5s due to the Lyme Regis trip.)
June 20: Cadbury Heath Tournament
June 21: BLUFC Tournament (Y3, Y5 girls)

Y2 have a Goaltastic Time against Bishop Road

The Y2 Foxes filled their boots with goals against brave and plucky Bishop Road up on the Downs on Saturday 28 Feb.

It was Bishop Road's first competitive fixture and it turned out to be a baptism of firepower. In a great atmosphere, the Foxes played four matches and won all four, keeping a clean sheet throughout. Everyone played really well and from goalkeeper to striker it was a fantastic chance for everyone to try playing in a new position.

The headlines are:

Rob's Team - Brody, Caleb, Henry, William LP, Jack, Stanley, Sam, TJ, Eddie.

Match 1

Foxes 4: Bishop Road 0

Scorers: Stanley, William LP, TJ, Jack.

Match 2

Foxes 6: Bishop Road 0

Scorers: William LP, Brody, Henry, TJ (x2), Sam.

Simon's Team - Teya, Isaac, Oskar, Ludo, William W, Matthew, Harrison, Jago, Josh.

Match 1

Foxes 7: Bishop Road 0

Scorers: Jago, Harrison (x 3), Josh (x 3).

Match 2

Foxes 8: Bishop Road 0

Scorers: Ludo (x 3), Matthew, Harrison, Josh (x 2), OG.

Player of Week awards - TJ and Ludo.

It was great to see everyone play so well and all in a fair spirit. 25 goals without reply - well done Foxes!

Year 5 Foxes boys score in 8 seconds as we enjoy success at Bishop Road

The year 5 boys won all four matches against Bishop Road on Saturday although two of the games were very close and hard fought. We selected two teams of fairly equal standard and in the first match Andy’s team won a close game 3-2. The Foxes took an early lead through a well worked goal by Gabe but were pegged back before half time. In the second half Gabe set a new club record by scoring in just 8 seconds from the kick-off latching onto a lovely pass from Oliver W. Oliver W scored himself soon after but again the Foxes were pegged back to 3-2 although we managed to hang on to win. In the second game Paul’s team won 3-0 with goals from Eddie (2) and Joe, all three very well worked and clinically taken. The third game saw Andy’s team triumph 4-0 with two lovely goals from Gabe and also saw Lukha twice finishing well from Hugo’s crosses. In fact although Hugo didn’t get onto the score-sheet he made the telling pass for all four goals in this match. The final game featuring Paul’s team proved to be the most exciting. The Foxes raced into a two goal lead ­– Jamie scoring direct from a corner after the ball took a deflection off the defence and Eddie professionally tucking away a chance after good build-up play featuring Adam, Ben, Jamie and Joe. But in the second half the Foxes were pulled back to 2-2 as Bishop Road rallied in a sprited showing. There was great excitement on the touchline as the teams battled into the last few minutes of the match and with only seconds remaining strong Foxes pressure forced a corner. Almost with the last kick Dannie J somehow curled an inswinging corner directly into the net to register a truly memorable victory in a very exciting match. Our thanks to everyone at Bishop Road who made our teams feel very welcome and who also now have fantastic facilities after the levelling of their new pitch.
Teams
Andy’s
James, Oliver W, Joe, Lukha, Hugo, Gabe, Sam, Kris
Paul’s
Jamie, Ben, Eddie, Dannie, Harvey, Adam, Jack