CHRISTMAS KICK-ABOUT

Join us for the last official Foxes footie session of the year with a dads v lads, mothers v daughters Christmas kick-about on the Downs tomorrow(Dec 18).

Fancy dress is compulsory for anyone in possession of a silly outfit.

See you there!

Arctic Foxes Battle Bravely in the wild north

Ok, we admit it.
It was cold.
-1 on the Official Foxy Freezo-meter.
3 inches of snow in Sophie McConnells garden.
Several mums and dads refused to get out from under the Duvet as the coaches drove by, picking up their eager Arctic Foxes.
What were most Rising 10 girls doing on that freezing saturday?
Staying in bed.
Playing some daft computer game
Finding a small brother to annoy.
Some even ventured out - to the shops.

Here is the Roll of Honour of 16 Brave Foxes who headed north, to the land of Frost and Falcons.
Ella Thrasher. Phoebe Marshall. Molly Hardwick. Paige Braithwaite. Sophie HarveyRich. Sophie McConnell. Sophie Cliff. Ok that's enough Sophies.
Anna Reynolds. Anna Davis. Emily Thomas. Emily Burbidge. 
Marielle Madieu-Wedande. Bryony Wade. Emily Cowell. 
Megan Gammack. Tia Francis.

They ran. They tackled.
They shot - and scored. They dived - and saved.
One or two even took off their ski jackets.

Now it wasn't just cold football. It was tough football.
Thornbury are the League Champs at the mo, the best in the district. And last time, you may recall, they got rather thrashed by the Foxes ( 14-2 in 2 matches!). This time all parties had been cancelled, top stars recruited, special training organised.
In two matches, the girls held the Foxy name up high.

One team saw Ella, Sophie C, Megan and Tia up front, smattering the Thornbury woodwork, making their (annoyingly good) goalie dive in the snow. Behind them, Anna R and Paige kept the back door closed. Anna R has earned herself a bit of a reputation in this department, and once again she can be proud of her tackling and clearing skills.
But Paige, or "Precision Paige" as she is now known, was a revelation. Her second outing for the foxes, and she tackled like an old timer. Nice one girl!
Occasionally the Falcons got through - but only to find Bryony "safe hands" Wade in goal. No chance.
Sophie, Tia and Ella learnt a lot up front, missing by inches, hitting the post. Eventually when Bryony came up to join them, the pressure told and the goal went in.
1-1 final score - top work girls.

On the other pitch, the frost soon melted in the heat of battle. Thornbury struck hard and accurately, beating a top class defence of Sophie HR, Phoebe and Marielle. Early in the second half, it was 4-0.

And this was when the Foxes proudest moment came.

Not content with coming out in the snow, the girls decided not to give in to defeat. They literally shouted at each other "come on, we can still do this". Phoebe and Sophie HR tackled harder, and cleared more carefully. Emily B deployed her famous "cannonball clearance" to devastating effect. Marielle made some scorching saves.
Emily T was everywhere, Anna D harried and tackled and ran.
Then, up front, Sophie Mac put in a shot made up of pure hunger. The goalie had no chance: 4-1.
"We CAN do this" they cried, and indeed they could. Sophie scored again, Emily hit the post, Anna D put in a fabulous shot and made it 4-3.
All round, a fabulous morning from an unpromising start. Great running, great tackling, several nice passes.
Player of the week is hard to pick. But from Team 1:  for diving, saving, running and scoring - Bryony. From Team 2 : for urging on her teammates, defending and passing, running end to end and making several goals - Emily T.
But every girl who played today is a Foxy Hero.

SNOW NEWS

ALL HOME MATCHES ON THE DOWNS ARE OFF TODAY.

YEAR FIVE GIRLS AWAY TO (sunny and warm) THORNBURY - MATCH IS ON.

Training will take place for any keen Year Ones, Threes, Fours and Fives.

No football for Reception, Year Two or Year Six.

SNOW NEWS

The good news is - it's snowing!

We shall conduct an early pitch inspection tomorrow morning but in all likelihood matches and training will go ahead as usual.

Watch this space...

In the meantime, Ashley Down's Year Threes have called off - so Foxes Year Threes will be training again.

Foxy Footie Fiesta Fun 2010

A freezing morning.
The Downs wet and muddy with days of rain.
Did that stop the Fabulous Female Foxes from coming out to play?
57 foxettes turned out for the best ever Fiesta Saturday, and the chance to train with England Internationals and Bristol Academy Pros Corinne Yorston and Annie Heatherson

From reception all the way through Y6, the Foxes learnt new passing skills and even headers from two of Bristol's finest players.

Here's a report from one of the Y5 team, Sophie HR:

The Foxy Girls Footie Fiesta was extremely fun. I really enjoyed it because I knew that lots of girls, age 4-11, were being inspired and taught to play football and that maybe some of the girls that we saw at the fiesta may one day become professional footballers and teach some girls to play football and inspire them like the pros that came from Bristol Academy WFC. I think that everybody did really well, especially the new receptions, and I am very thankful to all who  organised all that and all who came along! 
The professionals were really nice and taught us without saying ‘That was rubbish!’ - which is harder than it sounds.

Girls Can’t What?

Think again...............................

These are some training shots:

And they got muddy and Foxy into the bargain.

  

   

The girls did The Foxes proud. Corinne and Annie said they were amazed to see such enthusiasm on such a cold day, and were impressed by the passing and running.

It was great to see so many new faces, (in more ways than one!) and we look forward to welcoming back all the new Foxes to training next Saturday on the Downs!

SUPER SOCCER SATURDAY - FOR GIRLS

Two of England's womens' soccer stars will join in the fun at the Foxes Footie Fiesta this Saturday (Nov20).

The Foxes are encouraging all girls to take part - learn some footie skills, get your face painted and enjoy some snacks.

The fun starts at 10am and will wind up at about 11.30am with the chance to chat to our England ladies, take pictures and eat cake.

See you there.

Yr 5 Boys vs Shire Colts, 13th November

Four games, four wins, 18 goals for, 2 against. It's as if the success of the year 5 girls is just forcing the boys to go just one better. Well, can you imagine the playground otherwise?

After a little bit of too-ing and fro-ing in terms of exactly where the games would be played, 20 Foxes (again one better than the girls....)travelled to Sea Mills Park.

Graham was back, after a whole range of excuses of varying quality had kept him away over the previous few Saturdays, and coached his team to 5-2 and 4-0 victories. In the first game Raul bagged two and Omar three in a convincing win. The second game saw no let up in effort, passing and domination and the Foxes were rewarded with a clean sheet and two more goals for Omar, and one each for Joey and Jack C. Archie's complaints about being in goal with little to do for both games can still be heard.

Andy's lot started strongly with a fabulous goal involving Ollie K, Sonny and a great finish from Alec and then just got better and better. Ollie k scored two (the first another belter from the edge of the area)and young Danny three (his first goals of the season as the coach reminded him) including the goal of the game (which means it must have been pretty good)which involved beating three players and slotting a long range shot into the top corner. 6-0. The second game ended 3-0 with Sonny collecting a well-deserved hatrick.

The coaches could not ask for more and all the players did the Foxes proud with the quality of the football being a joy to watch.

Players of the week were Raul and Alec.

Buccaneers Bitten by Year 5 Foxes!

"There's nothing more satisfying than winning a local derby," said Sir Alex Ferguson, last week. For the first time in my life, I find myself agreeing with the man.

Y5 Foxes against Bishop Rd Girls is becoming a bit of a derby. The crowds are huge and noisy.  Many of the players go the same parties and clubs. If you live in BS6 you have to choose your team.

We put out two eight-a-side teams and we still had subs on the bench. Yes 19 Foxettes turned out for the big day, and - let's do the numbers first - won a handsome victory. Won 3, lost 1; Scored 4, conceded 2. Whichever way you cut it, the Foxes won it!

Jo "The Motivator" Davis led out a strong team of Issy, Bryony, Anna R, Sophie C, Erin, Sophie M, Emily T, Ella T, Molly H and Sacha.  Two very closely fought games got underway edgily, but up front Molly, Sophie C, Emily T and Sophie M put some relentless running and passing together and got plenty of shots on target. Bishop Rd, it's fair to say, have been investing in their goalkeeping programme and several sure shots were saved. When Sophie M finally found the net, the Downs erupted. At the back Issy and Erin kept our goal clear, only conceding once in the second game. Issy's legendary goal kicks cleared the Foxes out of danger again and again, launching the ball overhead to start a fresh attack. In defence Ella and Bryony tackled and never gave up, keeping the goalies out of too much trouble.
Results: 1-0 Win, 2-1 Win. Great games girls.


With Dave this week were Marielle, Abby, Sophie HR, Megan, Tia, Phoebe, Anna D, Emily B, and Paige. It was Paige's first action in Foxy strip and the coaches have one thing to say. "Come again Paige, we love you!"

The first game was tough, end to end stuff, with plenty of foxy attacks saved, and plenty of doughty defending too.  Marielle saved several cracking shots, Emily B deployed her trademark "cannonball" to great effect, Abby tackled incisively. But eventually the Foxes were caught in a goalmouth melee involving a shot, a hasty hand and a chilling whistle.  A free kick was given outside the area, and the girls deployed their first ever Wall of Foxes. Scary to behold, even scarier to be in ( I'm told!). An amazing shot from the Bishop Rd Striker cleared the top of the wall and even an acrobatic leap from Marielle could only get a hand on the ball as it hit the roof of the net.

Unsurprisingly they came out in the second game hungry for revenge. Abby and Sophie HR read the game well at the back, anticipating attacks and cutting them off. Phoebe made a few scorching runs through the centre, Tia tackled and harried in midfield. Then, out of the blue, a move. Phoebe, to Tia - she's into space, finds Anna D, now Phoebe again as the Bishop Rd defence regroup. But the Foxes are too quick and when Anna D hits the netting - well. Ear Defenders time folks.
Results: 0-1 Loss, 1-0 Win Great attitude girls, coming back from that free kick.


Afterwards, a great tunnel of sportsmanship for the visiting side, much shaking of hands and patting of backs.

Player of the week?
For cracking goalkeeping, skillful midfield play, and most of all for swapping teams half way and playing anywhere on the park with a smile and some skill - IT'S ERIN!

Year 5 Boys - 13th November - Match Update

Hi - still no confirmation from Shire Colts that their pitch will or will not be playable, so please meet on the Downs no later that 09.45 this morning so that we can either travel down together or be ready to play at home. Any questions please ring Andy on his mobile.

RECEPTION FOOTBALL STARTS THIS SATURDAY

Yes! The time has eventually arrived for the launch of Reception football.

All Reception boys and girls are invited to join in the fun this Saturday (Nov6).

Find us near the cafe on the Downs at 10am sharp.

Please dress your child prepared for cold winds and rain, with suitable boots, shin pads and a drink.

Come on the Foxes!

Year 5 vs Shire Colts, 16th October

An unusually depleted (by a Cub trip) Y5 Boys squad, numbering just two teams of six with no subs, faced a squad of 18 from Shire Colts in two rounds of six-a-side matches.

Ewan's team had a truly international flavour, being one-third Finnish with the inclusion of both Ian and his friend Leevi. Joined by Joey, Sonny, Owen and Jack C, this team came storming out of the blocks in their first game, with impenetrable defence, quick passing and devastating finishing generating a 5-0 lead at half time. Debutant Leevi bagged two close range finishes, adding to a brace for Sonny and Joey's spectacular "triple-keepy-up-then-volley" finish from 20 yards. The Foxes eased off a little in the second half, and Shire Colts battled hard to earn a well-deserved late consolation from a long range shot to make it 5-1.

The second game looked set to to go the way of the first, after the Foxes took the lead through Sonny then proceeded to generate chances at such a rate that one admiring Shire parent compared it to watching Chelsea. But after a succession of almost comical Foxes' missed chances from extremely close range (including a miss from half a yard out), Shire Colts blasted an equaliser close to half time when the ref (Ewan) controversially called 'play on' after a collision in the box. The second half then ebbed and flowed. Sonny put the Foxes back in the lead, but then tiredness (with no subs to provide relief), lack of shape, too much individual effort at the expense of teamwork and occasionally flaring tempers saw the game shift Shire's way. The ref/coach had his hands full, facing criticism from both sets of supporters (including the Foxes' Chairwoman), and could only watch as the Foxes' defence went AWOL as Shire scored twice on the break. There were further chances for both sides as play became increasingly ragged, but Shire held on for a 3-2 win.

Player of the week for this team was: Ian

Dave's team consisted of Archie, Seb, Ollie K, Ollie C, Nick and Omar.

With no subs on the bench the boys faced a morning of hard work but this made life easy for the coach in deciding on the starting line-up: Archie in goal, with Seb and Ollie K at the back and a midfield diamond with Ollie C on the right, Nick on the left.and Omar in the middle playing just ahead of the other two.

The first game ended 5 - 0 in our favour. The boys were asked to let the ball do the work and for the most part that is exactly what they did, with a fine display of passing football. Our first goal was a route-oner, with Archie's long clearance clearing everyone except Omar who took his chance well. Two of the other goals stood out. One was a corner taken by Omar which fell for Nick who gave it back to Omar who passed it to Ollie K - and from the edge of the box he thumped it through the crowd and into the far corner. The second was a passing move involving all of the outfield players, Ollie K won the ball in our box gave it to Seb, who passed to Nick on the left, who gave it to Omar, who spread it to Ollie C on the right who gave it back to Omar who scored. Despite the score line, and the fact that their keeper made a string of good saves, Shire Colts were always dangerous on the counter but we can be pleased the by the style of football we played.

Match two was a far closer affair. We started a touch tired and could have gone behind in the first couple of minutes but for Archie's alert display in goal. The Foxes scored against the run of play and this settled the boys, who got stuck in and worked hard. A second goal followed but again the Colts passed the ball well and worked a few openings and we should be pleased by keeping a clean sheet.

Player of the week for this team being Ollie K.

Overall, the play of both teams was excellent, and with the addition of some subs, Cubs and more passing in the final third, the Y5 Foxes will continue to improve and surpass even last season's achievements.

HALF TERM UPDATE

Foxes football will continue over the half term break.

Join us on the Downs for informal training/kickabouts - at the usual time and place.

See you there.

Yr 5 vs Rockleaze

Another two games into the season and still unbeaten. As always we had loads of keen and eager and talented boys to pick from. As is increasingly common the opposition turned up with one team - so we split into two squads and, while one lot trained, the others took on Rockleaze Rangers.

Squad one (Danny, Archie, Sonny, Ollie K, Ollie C, Aidan, Ian, Jacob, Max, Jack T and Alec) started well and maintained a high level of passing throughout. How we slipped two goals behind remains a bit of a mystery. Both Rockleaze goals were well taken, the first by their stand-out player, but both were against the run of play. Never daunted the Foxes kept going and managed to pull back to level pegging by half time courtesy of a Sonny double - one from short range following yet another great Danny-corner and the second that could best described as high-class route one football. Second half the Foxes were never threatened, with the exception of one counter attack when Archie had to be brave and alert, and with Sonny completing his hatrick we ran out worthy winners.

Man of the match - Sonny


Squad two (Owen, Seb, Harri, Harry, Joey, Nick, Sam L, Sam P, Raul, Omar) dominated their game, creating chance, after chance, after chance. One goal was disallowed, several chances were cleared off the line and several more were wasted as we passed, tackled, moved and created. All of the team played their part - to the extent were Owen (in goal) touched the ball on only three occasions. While the 0-0 result was frustrating - and the atmosphere the game was played in niggly at best - the Foxy coaches were delighted by the quality of our play and the sense of team spirit. The whole team deserved praise.

Man of the match - Sam P

Promising Start for Y4 v Rockleaze 2 Oct

16 spirited Foxes emerged from their rain-battered dens to take on the full might of Rockleaze in a testing start to the season.

The Foxes were split into 2 squads to play 3 matches each at Stoke Lodge against one of our toughest opponents.

Squad 1: Brody, Eddie, Ewan, Jamie, Stanley, Josh, William L P, Matthew.

The first game was end to end with Rockleaze going one-up early. The Foxes quickly hit back. A lovely through-ball from Matthew allowing Stanley to find Josh perfectly positioned to tap in from close-range. A fantastic performance from Brody in goal kept the scores even going into half-time. The second half saw Rockleaze use the sloping pitch to their advantage adding to their score-line quickly. Stanley’s running and shooting game was rewarded only by resonating woodwork (or should that be plastic?) and a spectacular overhead kick from Josh was unlucky not to hit the back of the net. The Foxes were within snapping distance until the last few minutes when Rockleaze added two late goals. The 1-4 final score line not a true reflection of the game.

The second also game started brightly. Great defensive work by Jamie stopped some strong attacking moves by Rockleaze; Brody and Ewan combined well as they tried to get the ball up to our strikers, and Eddie’s superb diving save was not quite enough to stop a penalty. Our defence played with great resilience, but legs began to tire and the game finished 0-3.

The final game was a real tester as 3 matches on the trot started to take their toll. The Foxes played with great passion: Eddie and Ewan making some great runs down the wings; William LP coming alive to trouble the Rockleaze defence, and Matthew supplying pinpoint passes to Josh and Stanley, with Brody and Jamie keeping them out at the back. But once again, Rockleaze’s well-drilled attack and organised defence thwarted the Foxes. Final score 0-4. Despite the losses, these were 3 great performances on a large pitch against fresher opposition who had already had a fixture to get them into the groove.

Man of the Match - Brody for his brilliant performance in goal and his solid defending.

Squad 2: Rohan, William W, Jack, Billy, Tee-Jay, Henry, Harrison and Joseph

Match 1. The long, wet grass and large pitch took some time to get used to and the Foxes went a goal down before they really started to click. Jack, Billy and William then repelled the Rockleaze attack, marshaled by some great keeping by Tee-Jay. Soon our strike force got going with Henry and Rohan securing the middle of the park allowing Joseph and Harrison to terrify their defence. The pressure told. Harrison supplied the ball to Joseph whose skills bemused the opposition before he opened our account. Some half time tactical adjustments gave us better balance and soon Joseph supplied a sublime cross for Harrison to finish. A thoroughly deserved 2-1 win.

Match 2. On a sloping pitch, the team maintained their winning momentum. Close marking and some superb defending by Jack and William neutralized Rockleaze’s most dangerous players. Meanwhile, Billy and Rohan powered through the midfield and Joseph continued to terrify all in front of him. A fantastic performance by Henry included a cross for Tee-Jay to hammer home and a powerful strike after Harrison’s endless determination had won the ball in the tackle. A peerless 2-0 win that left the opposition looking shell-shocked.

Match 3. The efforts of the previous matches began to tell as the Foxes lost a little concentration and went behind to fresher opposition. The whole team upped its game with some brilliant tackles from Jack and tireless running by Harrison, and were always a danger up front. Concerted team pressure brought a thoroughly deserved equaliser from Henry before the Foxes gave away some soft goals. The third Rockleaze team adopted the little seen “let’s put a player on your goal-line” tactic. Without offside, this led to two scrambled goals. A brilliant run and cross by Joseph found 3 Foxes in front of goal, but sadly we could not finish it. Result: a 1-3 loss against the run of play.

Man of the Match – Henry for a fabulous midfield and attacking display including 2 great goals.

Overall, some tactical lessons to be learnt, but all-round a hugely impressive and encouraging first performance – strong, organized defence, determined midfield and a selfless and skillful attack to challenge any team. Foxes to be proud of. Well done all!!

THORNBURY FALCONS ROUTED BY Y5 FOXES!

A sunny day on the Downs.

Another massive turnout from Y4 and Y5 girls.

And FOURTEEN GOALS FOR THE FOXES!

Two teams took on the Thornbury falcons, a strong team who have beaten us in the past.

And let's not beat around the bush, everyone played their green and white socks off. Several girls even played their boots off. There wasn't a passenger on the pitch, and the scoreline tells it all.

With Jo "its not that I'm competitive but I WANT TO WIN" Davis were Marielle, Sophie HR & Molly H in defence, Phoebe, Emily T and Anna D in midfield, Sophie M up front. This was a game where pressure told. Every Thornbury attack was neatly tackled at the back, and - what's this? - passed calmly up to the midfield where - blow me down! - shots were fired at the Thornbury goal. Their goalie was actually very good, and loads were saved.

You'd have thought our defence might have got bored, but actually they were busy too. Molly H had to come off with a brave injury, giving ELLA CLARKE her first ever taste of Foxy Action. She rose to the challenge, making some vital blocks and tackles. Sophie HR has really got the hang of reading the attacks, intercepting and feeding the hungry foxes in midfield.

After half time, Emily C and Anna R had a go, and frankly we might as well have built a brick wall across the foxy goalmouth. Never forget, the impressive part of this 9-0 ( oh yes) victory is the NIL bit.

Phoebe, Emily T, Anna D and Sophie M were everywhere. Several times I counted our players, it seemed like we had more than them! But no. And when Molly H came back from injury, she harried and ran amok too.

So to the well deserved score-sheet. 

GOALS TO MOLLY H, SOPHIE M, EMILY T and a Hatrick to Anna D ( well, 4 in fact!)

Sally Silky Skills started with Emily B in goal, Abby and Molly R in defence, Tia, Megan and Ella W in midfield and Sophie C up front. Now these Foxy Stars have been seriously improving, but have struggled to find the killer kicks that actually score goals. 

I have one thing to report:

5-2. Yes, that's FIVE GOALS TO US and 2 to them.

Again, a fast exciting game with plenty of action, which the Foxes deserved to win. At the back, Emily B had her first taste of goalie action, and made some great saves. Molly "clearly been on a soccer course" R had really stepped up her game. Several Falcons attacks came towards her, 2 or 3 players running fast and passing dangerously. Calmly, decisively, she picks her moment and the Falcons are downed. Abby and Megan had good games too, Abby taking a turn in goal to make some brave nick-of-time saves.

At half time, Sophie HR and Phoebe came on in midfield, showing little sign of tiring from the other non-stop match. Both used the space nicely, dribbling out of tackles and passing accurately to Sophie C and Ella in the attack.

And up front, what a transformation. Passing. Running with the ball. Running on to the ball. The sheer hunger of the Foxy attack left the crowd breathless.  When Thornbury attacked, Tia tackled, turned, ran and passed to Sophie C, perfectly placed for a goal. 

"Wow, they've got better!" gasped one. 

"Look at Ella run" admired another. 

"Is that a hatrick for Sophie Cliff?" roared a third, "she's amazing!"

OK, it was Sophie's mum, but she was right. Three goals for Sophie C, two for Ella W, but to be honest, they had everyone's name on them. Tia and Sophie HR set up a couple, Phoebe nearly scored.

But today the Foxes weren't content with nearly. Today, they pressed and pressed - and believed.

And if there was a word for the day, I'll go with Belief. Last week we told these girls that if they could convert enthusiasm into belief, they would win. Being obedient foxes, they did just that. 

THE GIRLZ ARE BACK...

More of them.

More determined.

And definitely louder.

This year, with a new, improved formula:

Passing!

Yes, a morning of non-stop footie against Bishop Road kicked off the Formidable Year 5s season, and it looks like a good one.

Two new recruits already, drum roll please...........

A Big Foxy Welcome to Ella Clarke! (applause)

Go Wild for Emily Burbidge!

That makes well over 20 on the foxy roll of honour - well done girls.

Two teams took on the Bishop Rd Buccaneers.

With new coach Jo “another lap of the pitch” Davis were Marielle, Phoebe, Sophie HR, Anna D, Izzy, Bryony, Abby and Megan. In their first game they did everything more right than a right thing, but never quite found the net. Easily the best passing this coach has seen saw several moves worked all the way from defence to striker, with consistent looking up and picking out partners. Top work girls. Marielle and Izzy were, as ever, solid in goal with some brave saves and massive clearances.

Under the watchful eyes of Sally “silky skills” Wistow were Erin, Tia, Ella W, Ella T Molly H, Emily B, Sophie C, Emily C and Sacha. Again, some fine goalkeeping from Erin and Tia kept the Buccaneers at bay, and Molly H, Sophie and Ella W were dogged and determined up front. Tia invented a whole new cunning move, forever now known as The Tia Tackle. Basically, you suss out the opposition’s names, call out “Megan” convincingly, and they then pass to you. Saves all that messy going after the ball, getting your boot stuck in etc. Nice one Tia!

Without our two top scorers, Sophie M and Emily T, we struggled to find the goals, but maybe learnt more as a result. Full marks for determination and enthusiasm, as ever, and just a bit more belief will bring some victories.

Player of the week?

For massive improvement, for huge courage in her first ever game, and for a right boot unmatched for power we salute:

Emily “Cannonball” Burbidge!

Yr 5 Boys v Sefton Park

A new season. A new age group. But the same old Downs with a reassuringly familiar north/north-westerly to make the Foxes feel at home, playing two and winning two.

The squad was a little short of numbers due to the enforced attendance for 5 boys at a secret boot-camp but we were still able to field two equal strength teams of 8 a-side.

Team one (Alec - welcome back Alec - Archie, Sonny, Max, Ollie K, Seb, Sam L and Ollie C) took a little while to remember to keep their shape and support each other. However things settled down with Sonny slotting the first goal after good work from Sam. Sefton Park kept pressing but another goal from Sonny and two excellent finishes from Max saw us home 4-0.

Player of the week - Max.

Team two (Joey, Owen, Jack T, Jack C, Ian, Raul, Jacob and Nick) has already warmed up against the year 4s and so played with more structure from the start. Joey, who was everywhere, scored one goal and Raul deserved his two. There were impressive performances from Jack T and Ian, on his Foxes debut, at the back. 3-0 was a comfortable margin and it could have been more, particularly if we could have got a head on any one of our impressive corners.

Player of the week - Jack C.

Well played everyone and thanks to the year four Foxes for giving both sides a game and Team One a very real scare.

NEW (school) YEAR STARTS HERE

It hardly seems possible that the summer hols have finished - but yes, we're back and raring to go for the new season.

There's not much to say, except a big THANK YOU for everyone's support last year, a great End of Season finale and a crackin' party at Goldbrick House.

Cheers m'dears!

Last year's Y6s will be sadly missed - but suffice to say we will be expecting the former Y6 parents to keep turning up at the Christmas and end of year bashes.

Good luck to the Y7s joining the newly formed Bishopston United.

That's it - see you on the Downs.

Westbury Park Foxes Accounts 2009-10

Here are the details of our accounts for the year ended 31 March 2010.

As ever anyone is very welcome to take a look at the books (which I can assure you are kept very much up to date) and check the numbers are OK!

Westbury Park Foxes
Accounts

Year End 31 March 2010

Income
Subscriptions £2,524.15
Parties £907.72
Clothing sales £733.46
Sponsorship £300.00
Other £4.00
Total £4,469.33

Expenditure
FA Affiliation fees £36.00
Training Equipment £1,971.46
Parties £812.50
EoS tournament £180.00
CRB checks £20.00
Match kits £0.00
Clothing £712.14
First Aid Kits £111.13
Tournament entry fees £500.00
Total £4,343.23

Surplus £126.10

Represented by
Cash in bank £572.89
Less uncleared cheques £0.00
Less surplus carried over £446.79
Total £126.10

Cash analysis
Cash in bank £572.89
Less uncleared cheques £0.00
Total cash to hand £572.89

Represented by
Surplus 2008 £446.79
Surplus 2009 £126.10
Total £572.89

Prepared by:
Andy Marshall
Treasurer
13 May 2010

Year 4 Girls at the BLUs Tournament 20th June

What a great Tournamnet for the Foxes - it made my father's day and I don't even have a daughter.

We took a squad a 9 - Sophie Mc (Cpt), Anna D, Sophie C, Ella T, Molly H, Phoebe, Marielle, Emily C, Bryony - to play all comers at the BLUs Tournament.

Our group started with a 0-0 draw against Longwell Green U10s who ended up pipping us for second spot and a place in the semi. Then came a great 2-0 win against the BLU's Colts with goals from Anna D and Captain McConnell (and our best ever goal celebration).

We then played the giants from the land of St Nicks U10s who are really rather good and really very big. We may have lost this one but a win in our final group game would have given us a chance of progressing. Up came another BLUs side and it is fair to say that, if Phoebe's shot had gone in rather than hitting the post, a win would have been a fair result. In the end we had to settle for a draw and third place in a group of 5 - in an U10s Tournament. And we are only U9s in case you haven't noticed.

All the girls should be proud of themselves - because we are. All the way from Marielle in goal to the midfield trio we were excellent but Bryony deserved to be named player of the Tournament.

Foxes Win Medals At Rockleaze

Hugs, kisses, cheering and congratulations - and that was only on the sidelines as the talented lads from Y6 crashed their way into the final of the Rockleaze Tournament on Sunday. Hurrah!

Gabe Kerfoot became The Special One as he slotted a coolly taken shot past the Sefton Park goalkeeper in the last minute of the semi-final - putting the Foxes in the final and thus avoiding a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out. Well done Gabe.

And in the final against Rockleaze the boys were narrowly beaten by a well taken goal. But the boys certainly were not out played - we had our chances - and the game could have gone either way. Unfortunately, it went their way.

The day hadn't started quite so well for the Y6s. After a promising start in the first match against Golden Hill Sonics, the boys gifted the Sonics a draw and went on to lose their next game.

The coaches were about ready to put on their Foxy jackets and go home when the boys found their form and the goals began to flow. They finished second in their group - on goal difference. Their semi-final was against Sefton Park, who had beaten the boys - in a penalty shoot-out - in the semi-final of 2008 (not that we hold grudges - but revenge was sweet).

The whole squad played tremendously well and were a credit to the club: Kris Carr (captain), Hugo Cullum, Joe Feehily, Gabe Kerfoot, Ben Lawes, Eddie Marshall, Jamie McConnell, Harvey Morgan, Oliver Williams and Tom Wistow.

Head coach-in-chief Paul Williams said: "After a shaky start, to get to the final and lose narrowly to the strongest Rockleaze squad is a great achievement.

"We played some brilliant, high energy football which impressed the crowds and the other teams' managers. The coach of the Sonics rang me today to say how lucky they felt to get a draw against us, and how they felt that we were the best team they played against by far."

COME ON THE FOXES!

Other Foxes teams narrowly missed out on reaching the finals. Y5s won all their group games - a fantastic achievement - only to be knocked out in the semi-final. The Y4s were on fire in the group only to be beaten by Shire Colts (again) in the semi.

Y3s and Y2s looked impressive in their Festival of Football sections and all the children won medals.

The club and school should be proud of the good behaviour and sporting brilliance shown by all our teams on Sunday. Well done teams and a HUGE thank you to the coaches.

Bring on the End of Season Tournament.

Training moved to grass beside St Monica's

Training tomorrow (Sat June 12) has been moved from our usual site near the cafe to the grassy area next to St Monica's (where school Sports Day used to be).

The move is due to the take over of the Downs by the Race For Life. We will return to our usual place next week.

Is this goal of the season?

Here's a contender for goal of the season by Joseph McMurchie, Y3, at St Nicks Tournament.

Y3 Foxes gambol in St Nick's sunshine 5th June

In the sunshine of a Saturday afternoon 14 committed Foxes took on all-comers as Monty Nash stepped up from Year 2 to help bolster the two squads.

Westbury Park Blue Squad team of Henry, Stanley, Eddie, Ewan, Sam, Ludo and Matthew played five excellent matches. All the boys gave 100% effort and managed to keep their concentration for over 4 hours. WP Blue lost 3 games 1-0 and drew one game 0-0 and in each of these games it was very close with WP Blue probably having most of the pocession. With a little more luck in front of goal we could have won these games! In the final game against the best team, WP Blue lost quite heavily but we were reduced to five available players against six by that stage. During the tournament the boys really impressed with their commitment. WP Blue player of the tournament was Henry for his tireless running and sportsmanship despite some less than sporting tackling from some teams. A very large thank you to all the parents who came and watched despite the very hot weather and disapointing results.

Westbury Park Red Squad comprised Billy, Tee-Jay, Jack, Harrison, Joseph, Josh and Monty. Late starts and delays meant that our first match was nearly an hour late kicking off shortly after which we had to say goodbye to Billy. However the 6 players who remained played their hearts out! Josh passed beautifully as two excellent goals from Joseph and Harrison set us on our way to a 2-0 victory. A stunning long-range free-kick from Harrison put us within a whisker of winning our second, only for a late equaliser against the run of play to peg us back to 1-1. Jack and Monty set up Joseph perfectly for him to score two more and give us our next victory 2-0. By the 4th match tiredness was setting in, but great goals from TJ and Harrison brought our third win 2-1. And in the final match despite legs so tired they could barely move we still looked the better team, Monty just missing as we drew 0-0. Final result - played 5, won 3, drew 2. Unbeaten. Man of the tournament went to Monty for his fearless tackling, excellent passing and determination to run and run and run!

We could not be prouder of the effort everyone put in and the sporting way in which all the Foxes played. Some beautiful football played in the right spirit. Congratulations to all who took part.

Year 4s Do Us Proud At St Nicks

Well - after winning silverware at Thornbury and reaching the final at Clifton, being knocked out in the semi-final at St Nicks may feel like a let down. No such thing. Our 'Red Team' (Harri TD, Harry F, Joey, Ollie K, Sam L, Owen, Omar, Raul) did brilliantly well to finish second in a strong group of 7 teams. Lots of football, lots of hard work and a deserved place in the knock-out stages. The semi-final itself against a good St Nicks team could have gone either way, but the boys should be proud of what they achieved.

The 'Blue Team' (Jack T, Jacob, Max, Aidan, Danny, Nick, Sebastian, Archie) fought hard and should have won at least one game but three draws and three defeats was not enough to see them out of their group - but at no stage were they overpowered by any team.

The St Nicks Tournament is a great chance for the Foxes to to play teams we would otherwise never come across. Most of them play in competitive leagues and have been around for, oh, ages. So our overall performance was enough to make the coaches content old men.

Now onwards to Rockleaze....

Y2 shine at St Nick's Football Festival

Guest coach Platineo and regular Y2 coach Tamsin accompanied a squad of 8 Foxes to the St Nick's Tournament. As an U7 event this took the form of a Football Festival, but for those interested the stats were: Played 6, Won 4 Lost 2, Goals for 10, against 6.

Credit must go to all of the Y2 coaches this year. The whole squad were a joy to watch, all playing for the team and all making contributions. Joseph and Jude split the goalkeeping, both pulling of some fantastic saves, whilst Betty, Lulu and Alex provided the stable platform at the back allowing Eesa and Sam Rowland to roam the midfield, and Josh Jarvis to score goal after goal. Sam, Alex, Jude and Joseph also found the back of the net.

Fantastic stuff, with no mistakes at either end.

Special mention must also go to Archie Watts and Ben Jarvis, who took on the role of 1st team coaches, and set out positions and subs for the whole morning. Brilliant!

Year 6 boys come close at Thornbury and Clifton

The last two weekends have seen some great Foxes action from the year 6 boys at tournaments at Thornbury and Clifton.

At Thornbury both squads reached the semi finals of their tournaments only to narrowly miss out on a crack at the trophy in the final on penalties. It was a cold and windy day and many thanks to all our supporters who braved the elements to cheer on the teams!

At Clifton despite remaining unbeaten in the group matches the Foxes finished second and then faced the academy boys from Jamie Shore. The Foxes played their hearts out, went a goal up when Gabe scored and only went out of the tournament when Jamie Shore scored twice late on. It was a memorable day for the team (who could forget the incredible strike from Kris against the Sonics? even though we once again were narrowly beaten so close to glory.

And so our thoughts turn to Rockleaze. Bring it on!

Y4 Boys Miss Out In Thrilling Clifton Final

Congratulations to the Y4 boys who came so close to winning the Clifton United Tournament at the weekend.

The team, consisting of Jack Clarke, Jacob and Raul Gibson, Ollie Kieran, Sam Lawes, Joey Martin-Tulloch, Sonny Singh, Max Thrasher (capt), Archie Watts and Danny Wistow, played superbly well and were unlucky to miss out on victory in the final. Danny hit the post and in a three-on-three extra time Sam came so close to scoring.

St Nicks next - COME ON THE FOXES!

Y4s Crowned "Best Of The Rest" At Thornbury

Congratulations to the Y4 boys for their success in the Thornbury Tournament last weekend.

The team, consisting of Aidan, Harry, SamL, Joey, Max, Seb, Archie and Danny, scooped the Consolation Cup.

On their journey to the final they won their first ever penalty shoot-out sudden death (hurrah) and beat the other Foxes' Y4 team in the semi-final (a bitter-sweet moment for us all).

And well done to all the Foxes teams who played at Thornbury - their effort and behaviour was a credit to the club.

COME ON THE FOXES! - and good luck at the Clifton Tournament this Sunday.

Footie Festival A Real Winner

The first-ever Festival of Football between the children of Westbury Park and Bishop Road schools turned out to be a real winner last Sunday(Apr25).

Fine weather, good food, excellent beer and friendships forged - and the footie wasn't bad either.

We at the Foxes would like to thank everyone at Bishop Road for embracing the idea of an all inclusive and friendly football festival between the schools. Our one hope now is that we can do it all again next year.

**Thanks to everyone who baked and bought for the cake sale - Tupperware boxes will be brought to football on Saturday.

**A large quantity of lost property was picked up from the pitches after the Festival. This will be left - with the Tupperware - behind the Y4 goals on Saturday. Please rummage.

Saturday April 17: The plan so far...

This Saturday Y1/Y2/Y3/Y4/Y5/Y6 will be training as normal.

Penalty shoot-out practice is suspended until the following week (April 24).

Penalty Shoot-Out: This Week's Champion

This week's Penalty Shoot-Out Champion was Year Three hot-shot Joseph McMurchie.

Joseph beat off stiff competition from Year Fourers Nicholas Blatchford and Owen Paton to smash home the winning spot-kick and claim his Mars Bar prize.

Well done Joseph. Respect.

Y3 - Saturday 10th April

No formal training for Y3, only informal. Y3 coach/coaches will be on the Downs and the weather forecast is good. See you there :)

Easter Training

This Saturday (April 3) will see training for the Y2s only as all other Foxes coaches sag off and enjoy a rare weekend lie in.

The following Saturday (April 10) will see the start of intense and prolonged penalty shoot-out practice in preparation for tournament-time.

And the last weekend of the holiday (April 17) - well, who knows, anything could happen.

Watch this space.

Happy Easter!

Y3 No training or match Sat 3rd April

All the Y3 coaches are unavailable on Saturday 3rd April so there will be no training or match.

Yr 4 Boys End On A Winning Note

So that's the last of the friendly league fixtures for this season - and what a good season it has been for the Foxes. The year fours have been impressive throughout and ended on a high by capturing two wins from two games away against Clifton Utd.

The first game saw a comfortable 3-1 win with goals from Danny, Raul and Nick, finishing off a great passing move with a precision shot. Good performances all round with Aidan and Ollie C tying up Clifton's attacks, Archie and Nick rampaging forward, Ollie K snuffing out any threat in midfield, Danny his usual busy self and Raul leading the line very effectively.

The second game was a more comfortable victory with Sonny (6) Harri and Joey scoring in an 8-0 win. Again The Foxes passed and moved well but still paid attention to defending when Clifton won possession. Highlights included a penalty save by Danny, Owen and Sebastian organising the defence, Joey as skillful and committed as ever, Max a threat on the right and Jack weaving magic on the left.

Well played everyone. Now it's Tournament season.....

Year 6 boys continue winning ways at Clifton

Despite missing a number of key players the Foxes turned in an excellent team performance to win at Clifton. There were many stand-out players in the squad: at the back Adam and Kris were maginificent. Adam is now turning out consistently strong defensive games whenever he plays and he is a great battler with good positional sense and Kris was a rock at the back reading the game brilliantly. Tom W excelled in goal and again his positional sense is the best in the squad often cutting out dangerous moves with one deft touch. Oliver W and Eddie produced great passing moves. Gabe scored two - one a great header - and Jack made his first touch count in his one chance which he converted superbly. Oliver B played well in midfield and Oliver D turned on the style as his dad was watching! Finally James was a star: determined, pacey and always competitive. The results went our way and deservedly so. Two frustrating draws (1-1, Gabe scoring and the Foxes conceding a late but excellent Clifton goal, and 0-0, where really a win would have been a fair result) were followed by an excellent 2-0 victory with Jack and Gabe on the score sheet.

The comedy award went to Adam for his Run-Away Haynes moment in front of goal - pure comic genius - and star player this week was Kris.

Paul and Andy were again delighted with the passing moves, the great defensive play and spirit of the whole team. With the Thornbury tournament approaching in May we are confident of a good showing if we can keep this up. Well done to everyone!

Year 4s v Golden Hill Sonics, Saturday 13th March

Bathed in glorious sunshine the Foxes won 3 and lost 1.

The Sonics, like our previous 2 opponents, seemed to pick 'A' and 'B' squads while we mixed things up in an attempt to field two even sides.

Ewan's team [Max, Aidan, Sonny, Omar, Sam L, Ollie K, Archie, Raul] started well in their game against Sonics 'B' winning 7-0, and perhaps should have scored more. A hat trick for Raul, 2 for Sam Lawes and one each for Omar and Sonny accounted for the goals. The Foxes passed and moved it very well (especially between the midfield and front players) and Ollie K snuffed out most of their attacks.

The second game against the stronger Sonics was a much closer affair, which we won 3-1 with the goals coming from an own goal following an excellent corner whipped in by Sam L, Omar scoring after another corner caused chaos in the opposition box, and then a goal which deserves a proper description: only Archie, who was everywhere throughout that game and man of the match, can honestly say whether his blast from 20yards out was a pass or a shot (I'm sure he will claim a pass however), but in any event Omar hit it first time on the volley from 10 yards out and it flew into the top corner. The Sonics then rallied a bit, got a goal backed and pressed for more, but Ollie K kept them out (in a strong outing in goal) and we were able to keep the ball and get it forward enough to see out the game quite comfortably.

Graham's team (Owen, Seb, Jack T, Joey, Jack C, Danny and Ollie C and Nick) did everything they needed to and more in the first half against Sonic's 'A' before throwing it all away. Nick really sparkled on the left wing and we went 3 up with goals from Danny, Joey and Jack C. However, and perhaps not for the first time this season, the boys edged from 'confident' to 'over confident' in the second half and the Sonics started to break well while all the Foxes were desperate to score. The only person to get back and help was Joey who ran himself into the ground but he could not stop us conceding 4 second half goals.

In Game 2, and aware of the likely reaction of the club's chairman to the first result, Graham gave the team a strong pre-match talking-to. This seemed to work and they managed to concentrate for the whole game, winning 5-1 with goals from Danny (2), Joey (2) and Nick.

Player of the week - Nick, with an honourable mention to Ollie C for a strong showing on the right wing.

Sport Relief Mile

Well done and thank you everyone who took part in the Westbury Park Foxes does the Sport Relief Mile Challenge on Saturday.

Together we raised £378.88. All the money will go to Sport Relief.

And thank you those who supped at Holly Ogborne's Temporary Tea Bar. She raised about £40 for the NSPCC.

Many thanks to you all.

Y3 versus Golden Hill Sonics Saturday 13th March Report #2

What a day for football! The sun was shining, the temperature was above freezing for a change and 18 eager foxes turned up, keen to play against the mighty sonics....

Team: Rohan, Josh, Stanley, Matthew, Jack, William W, Eddie, Caston, Ludo, TJ

Two great games played in a fine spirit. 1st game was a game of 2 halves. Tj started the scoring with a beautifully taken goal after great approach play from Caston. The sonics soon hit back with some skillful passing that found a way through the foxes tenacious defence. The second half saw the sonics better organised and they managed to pierce the foxes defence, this in despite of some incisive defending from William and great goalkeeping from Rohan. A couple more goals followed in quick succession through the Sonics well organised attacking line up. The foxes managed to get one back with the final kick of the game.. an exquisite free kick from the left by Ludo that looped into the top right hand corner. final score 2-4 to the sonics.

2nd game. The valiant foxes didn't let their heads drop for a moment following the result of the first and they set about probing and attacking the sonics defensive lines. Josh was unlucky to see a well struck shot rebound off the post. TJ worked tirelessly alongside Caston in midfield, sticking close to the sonics danger players. Eddie was his usual dependable defensive self repelling anything the sonics could throw at the foxes. Stanley troubled the sonics down the wing. Rohan and William maintaining order and calm in the midfield. Jack had a fine game in goal with some brave shot stopping. Matthew held his defensive line well and cleared many troublesome balls.

A sonics goal was soon cancelled out by a great stroke from Stanley. and the deadlock was almost broken at the end of the game with some clever play from Josh on the byline as he managed to thread a neat ball to ludo who shaved the crossbar with a great shot. So end of game honours even but a wonderful display from every single one of the foxes players who played so well as a team and were a real credit to
the foxes name.

Man of the match. Caston. A tireless display, a great example of what man to man marking can achieve in preventing counter attacks and bravery following a ball to the face!! well done!

Y3 versus Golden Hill Sonics Saturday 13th March

The beautiful game on a beautiful Saturday morning against two very good Golden HillSonics' teams. Too good by half from the kick-off: our initial timidity in defense gave time and space to the sonics' forwards and they scored three (count 'em) early goals. But the foxes were not to be demoralised and soon regrouped, gaining a goal courtesy of Henry's ever powerful right foot. Unfortunately half-time substitutions and a controversial rotation policy didn't help to settle our defence (blame the coach) and we conceded three (count 'em again more goals. Again the Foxes fought back, Ewan and Sammy H battling hard in midfield, and excellent goalkeeping from William L-P, keeping the skillful Sonics at bay. It wasn't long before Harrison, working tirelessly between defence and attack, fed Joseph whose confident strike restored some pride to a scoreline which probably exaggerated the difference between the two teams, even if the result was fair. Final score 6-2.

The second match was a different story. Gone were the defensive frailties and the "Total Football" Foxes came to life. It would be only a minor exaggeration to say the ball rarely left the sonic's half. Billy's trademark calmness and control in a defensive midfield role, Harrison's tactical awareness and Brody's tenacity tracking back typified the performance. Ok, so the sonics scored first, a result of our hesitancy to clear the ball (the Foxes Achilles' Heel?) in the face of a concerted attack by the Golden Hillers. But the response was unequivocal - an equally concerted counter-attack confidently finished by Joseph. The Foxes continued to repel the Sonics' attacks, pouring forward every time and came close to breaking the deadlock on several occasions, including a spectacular long-range "William L-P Special" free-kick bouncing off the post. The Foxes confidence grew and the second half began with another even more stunning long-range effort ricocheting off the crossbar, this time courtesy of Sammy H. Fortunately Harrison, again running all the way from defense, was in the right place at the right time to hammer it into the roof of the net. A Foxes classic came next with an excellent tackle and dribble by Billy feeding Harrison on the left wing who in turn passed to Joseph. After beating two defenders he made no mistake with his shot. The Sonics tried to mount a comeback but even their impressive individual skill and excellent teamwork struggled against Teya and Ewan, solid in defense, and Henry, yet again showing his versatility as goalkeeper. Inevitably, the Sonics' pressure yielded a goal, albeit a controversial one (with some Foxes unconvinced the WHOLE of the ball crossed the WHOLE of the line) but rather than argue with the ref the response was another goal courtesy of, well, pretty much the whole team, but finished by Joseph, completing his first hatrick (count 'em) in a competitive match. Final score of 4-2 to the Foxes.

Team: Teya, Brody, William L-P, Joseph, Billy, Sammy, Harrison, Ewan, Henry

Man of the match for a great defensive, midfield AND attacking performance: Harrison

Year 4s V Ashley Down, 6th March

The games having been coming thick and fast and your correspondent has slipped behind in writing the match reports. The chairman has had a quiet word and things will improve. Or else.

The Downs seemed to be covered in Foxy year fours as the girls fielded two squads to play Bishop Road and the boys did the same to face Ashley Down. Two squads, four games, four wins. Happy days.

Ashley Down seemed to split into 'A' and 'B' teams and the results reflected that split.

Ewan and Dave T's squad dominated possession in their first game and then gradually began to create chances through good interplay and passing. Eventually the deadlock was broken by a crisp 4 pass move from the back which saw Jack C finish off at close range. A second was added by a similar move moments later, this time with Omar finishing off. In the second half Ashley Down rallied and began to play some good stuff scoring from a well taken free kick and the final 5 minutes were close fought and intense. The Foxes created more chances, kept the ball well and just about deserved to win 2-1.

The second game came to life with Joey's spectacular early strike which was then cancelled out by a breakaway goal by the visitors, finished off in style. After that the Foxes raised their game and in the end, with 2 each for Joey, Omar, and Jack and one for Harri TD, ran out comfortable 7-1 winners. Highlights were a very solid debut in goal for Max, a very robust and committed performance all over the pitch from Harri, and a typically composed and skillful display in defence and elsewhere from Sebastian. But player of the week for this squad for his quick and incisive attacking, passing and linking play was Jack C.

Graham and Andy's squad played Ashely Down 'B' first up and ran out comfortable 7-0winners. Highlights included a hatrick from Danny (none of which were scored from further out than a metre and one was a header that was almost on - or was it already over? - the goaline), two from Sonny and one each from Archie and Ollie K (a fabulous first time screamer from the halfway line). The team started well and then lost a bit of concentration as the game wore on and probably should have made more of it dominance.

The second game was much, much closer with Ashley Down playing competitive, good quality football and the Foxes getting stronger as the game went on. Goals from Sam L and Sonny secured a 2-1 win but credit must also go to strong defence from Aidan, Jack T and Nick and all round good movement and passing. Player of the week was Aidan for an impressive display.

Great Foxes performance leaves coaches purring in delight

The year 6 boys continued their impressive form since Christmas with a fantastic display against Golden Hill Sonics despite being deprived of the services of Kris, Ben and Jamie. But the rest of the squad stepped up to the mark with three matches against a strong Sonics squad.

The first game ended 3-3 with the Foxes scoring through Gabe, Lukha and Oliver W. Gabe's sublime cross shot was a great strike, Lukha was in the right place at the right time to slot in at the far post and Oliver hit a 20 hard screamer on the volley leaving the keeper no chance. A great and competitive match enjoyed by everyone. The second game saw the Foxes in a 0-1 reverse, and unluckily so, having conceded a breakaway goal and being unable to convert any of the chances they created.

But like last week the Foxes left the best until last and played a sublime 15 minutes which left Paul and Andy standing in admiration on the sidelines. The match even included two set piece goals which we had worked on in training. How good does that makes us feel?! The Sonics took the lead with a breakaway and cross shot that somehow sneaked in at the near post. But Gabe levelled soon after, racing onto a superb pass from Eddie to hit the target. 1-1 at half time. In the second half Jack unexpectedly found himself with the ball after a defensive slip-up: he still had a lot to do but he punished the error by shooting in coolly. Then Gabe returned to the fray under strict instructions to finish the game off for us. We will issue those instructions again as he skipped past three defenders with his first touch and shot a lovely curling (and left foot!) shot into the far corner. Next up it was Eddie attacking a near post corner straight off our training pitch. Great delivery from Gabe, fantastic header from Eddie. 4-1. Now it was Foxes, Foxes all the way. James H made a brilliant tackle to thwart a Sonics attack, turned, found Eddie who raced into space before delivering a pin-point pass to Gabe who fired in a great hat-trick. Surely there was no time for more. Well, there was. Another corner. Another great delivery from Gabe, another outstanding header from Eddie and we had a sixth. Final score 6-1 in a breathless and brilliant display.

Lukha picked up star player for playing out of his skin but there were great performances all over the pitch. Comedy award went to Oliver B (a big welcome Oliver to the Foxes at last!) for his general fun attitude. But well done to all the squad - Tom , Danny, Oliver B, Oliver D, Oliver W, Gabe, Eddie, Jack, Lukha, Adam, James and Harvey. Paul and Andy were proud of you!

Free scoring Foxes take the spoils against Ashley Down

As we set the goals up on Saturday the sun was shining on the Downs. There was a freshness to the air which made it perfect for football and the year 6 boys responded fantastically. We played two matches against Ashley Down and won both. Playing 9-a-side on a tight pitch it was difficult to break down a spirited Ashley Down defence and it took until nearly half-time in the first match before the Foxes scored with Ben turning in a great cross from Jamie at the far post. The first goal quickly led to two more: Danny crashing in a great finish from a set piece and Jamie turning in a third from close range. 3-0 at half time and there was more to come in the second half. Ben began by neatly clipping the ball past the goalie before Jamie shot in two more to complete his hat-trick. 6-0 it finished.

In the second match the first half was hotly contested and although the Foxes created some great chances they couldn't find the net and Ashley Down threatened with two breakaways. But it was scoreless at half time before the Foxes really turned on some fabulous attacking play to score no less than seven in the second half. Four goals from Eddie (including a great left foot strike for his hat-trick) and a goal each from Jamie, Gabe and Jack completed the scoring. 7-0 the final score.

Jamie picked up the comedy award for his extraordinary corner kick technique which involved kicking his ankle instead of the ball falling flat on his back in agony and pushing the ball 10 inches over the goal-line for a goal kick with his knee. You had to be there! Harvey won player of the week with an inspirational display in defence.

But the whole squad played brilliantly. Well done to Tom, Kris, Harvey, Adam, Sam, Oliver D, Gabe, Danny, Ben, Eddie, Jack, Lukha, Aydin and Jamie.

Bishops OutFoxed by Queens of the Downs

WP Foxes Y4 Girls : 9 - 2 Bishop Road Girls

"So Tia, where do you want to play today?"
"Everywhere."

Not the most advanced understanding of team positions and territory football, maybe, but - as it turned out - a perfect description of a frenetic morning's action!

15 Foxettes turned out on the first decent Saturday of 2010 to face two 6-a-side teams from our friends at Bishop Road. And they played their little green socks off.

No passengers, great enthusiasm as ever, resolute tackling and even some deliberate passing was spotted. That scoreline came from 4 mini-matches, of which the Foxes won 3 and lost one (3-0, 4-0, 1-0 and 0-1), and one mad mega match which we drew 1-1, despite being, by this stage, outnumbered 11-8. Yes, hilarious numbers!

Let's start with the impressive bit of that total score.
The 2 goals conceded. In five matches. Superb defending.

Emily Cowell played the morning of her life, keeping a totally clean sheet for the 2 matches proper. "Calm, confident, solid" as Coach Jo described it. And in the mayhem maxi-match, some fantastic saves against waves of Bishops, including one spectacular series of on-the-line clearances.
In front of her Emily had some lovely defending by Phoebe and Ella T, who Coach Jo described as "unrecognisable from a few months ago". Bishops so much as looked at our goal and Phoebe would come slicing out, removing the ball with surgical precision. And Ella - you're so much stronger now you believe in yourself.

The other team had Isobel and Marielle in goal, and once again some lovely keeping. Isobel's "cannonball clearances" are now famed in North Bristol girls footie. They usually land in the other team's half, where Anna D picks them up and pops them helpfully in the net. She was helped by superb defending by Anna R, who has now mastered clever passing so our defences turn into attacks, Marielle and Megan. I counted two serious Bishop attacks that were thwarted by a brave interception from Megan. Go for it girl, you can do this!

In midfield, Tia harried and ran her legs off and really should have gone amongst the scorers, but her passes made at least one goal, if not two. Molly R, Sophie and Sasha have really got the hang of this "stop the ball, look around, kick it to someone in the same shirt as you" thing. Extraordinary.

Ok, you can keep em out at back. But someone has to put it in the other net. Step forward Emily T and Sophie M. I'll give the best on this from the Bishop coach, Dan. "You have some serious finishers there, Dave, those two really don't mess around."
What's more, they have now been passing - and on the move, and fast. Emily took one goal all the way from our own lines, and Sophie scored a scorcher in the massive 11-8 battle. How she got through all those bodies I will never know.

In the other team, some new scorers. Anna R, who usually provides the bungee at the back - bouncing all hostile attacks back up the other end - tried her hand in attack. A great goal, nicely taken, was her reward. Anna D took a second - you almost felt sorry for the Bishops under her relentless pounding. And as the final whistle blew, Sophie HR scorched her name on the Foxy honour roll with an unstoppable high kick into the goalie's top left hand corner. "Well I thought she'd probably be right-footed, so I went the other way."

If only England had such cool calculators.

Girls of the Game? Really hard to pick, but despite Emily T and Sophie M's mega scoring, it has to be Emily Cowell on her team for brilliant goalkeeping. And on the other side, despite epic keeping from Isobel and Marielle, her first foxy goal has to mean Girl of the Game goes to Sophie HR.

Well played girls - all 15 of you. Especially the defenders.

Y3 versus Ashley Down (Away) Sat March 6th

Westbury Park Foxes Y3 played Ashley Down away. Two very entertaining games on a very good slightly sloping pitch. In the first half Josh opened the scoring for WPF with a fine shot rifled into the top of the net. It was soon followed by Josh's second. The two goal lead gave WPF the confidence to attack and we finished the first half looking to extend the lead further. Ashley Down scored early in the second half but Ludo restored the two goal advantage soon afterwards. In the final quarter of the second half Ewan rounded off a fine move with a vicious shot that the keeper struggled to prevent rolling over the goal line. Congratulations to Ewan for his first competitive goal for the Foxes. Thank you to Caston and William W for their goal keeping, and to Joseph and Eddy for their commanding performances. Man of the Match was Ewan to celebrate his first goal for the Foxes.

Team : Josh, Stanley, William W, Ewan, Ludo, Eddy, Joseph, Caston, Harrison

The second match seemed to follow a similar storyline to the first match except we couldn't turn the superior possession into goals despite camping in Ashley Down's half. It looked as if it would be a frustrating match but Henry broke the deadlock. WPF's second came from a viscous cross which was deflected by Ashley Down into their own goal. Matthew and Brody played well in defence and didn't really look like conceding a goal. TJ worked hard in mid field and was always looking like scoring. Jago made it three followed by a late consolation goal for Ashley Down. Thank you to Jack for keeping goal. Man of the Match was TJ for his concentration and commitment during the whole match.

Team : Jago, Isaac, Sam, Brody, TJ, Jack, Matthew, Calib, Henry,Billy