Date

Well here we go again........... after a few months off  we start the 2007/08 campaign away to Hanham Ath Yth A. Firstly let's welcome a few new faces to the squad for Bradley Stoke. Andre, Joe and James C and we bid farewell to Pete and Titus and wish then all the best. Thanks especially to Pete for many years of support for the club together with Steve his dad. 

Today we travel to Hanham Youth A, who were relegated from Division 2 last season. Hanham Youth B were also relegated from our division into 4.  Hanham Youth A finished 11 out of 12 last season and after playing 22 games they won 4, drew 1 and lost 17. However, these statistics count for nothing as a new season commences today. An extra 5 minutes is added to each half this season making 40 minutes each way plus stoppage time.

1st Half
Bradley Stoke kicked off the first half in warm sunshine on a good but very hard pitch. First push of the game in the early minutes were down to Bradley Stoke who made the first attack and won a corner within 2 minutes. The corner was delivered by Ben onto the head of James S who saw his effort go wide.

From the goal kick the ball was taken up the field by Hanham with some good passing moves. The final ball was delivered into our area before being pushed into the back of the net for the first goal of the afternoon. Hanham Ath Yth A 1 Bradley Stoke United 0. 

As the game continued to be played Hanham had the better of the game. They were very strong in going forward and tackled hard to win possession. 

As we reached the 10 minute stage both teams were battling hard in the middle of the pitch but few chances were being created by either team.

On 13 minutes, Hanham won a corner. The ball was delivered perfectly into the box and a goal mouth scramble followed. A Hanham striker finally got his head to the ball to double their lead. Hanham Ath Yth A 2 Bradley Stoke United 0

Substitution on 15 minutes for Bradley Stoke with Kieran being replaced by Sam.

Hanham continued to control the game and on 23 minutes were unlucky not to increase their lead further after hitting the post from a corner. Following this corner, Fraser injured his hand and had to be replaced in goal by Matt. Joe Cole came on in midfield.

Substitution on 25 minutes for Bradley Stoke with Will being replaced by Wesley.

On 27 minutes a high ball kicked into the area was dropped by Matt in goal and the Hanham strike force netted their 3rd goal. Hanham Ath Yth 3 Bradley Stoke United 0.

Bradley Stoke responded instantly to this goal and a few minutes followed of good attack. James S made a great run and went close on 34 minutes.

As the pressure continued Bradley Stoke won a corner in the 38th minute. The ball was delivered perfectly by Ben into the box and Ollie was unfortunate not to get more from his header. Within 2 minutes, Bradley Stoke were again pushing with a great run by Ben down the wing. He pushed the ball into both James S and James C who went very close to scoring the first goal for Bradley Stoke.

Half time whistle was sounded. Hanham Ath Yth A 3 Bradley Stoke 0

2nd Half
Before the start of the 2nd half. Will came on to replace Kye and took over the goalkeeping jersey from Matt who returned to midfield.

After half time talks by both coaches the 2nd half commenced with Hanham kicking off. As the game settled down again after the break both teams struggled to get a pattern going.

However, on 4 minutes after some very simple passing by Hanham they found themselves in front of goal. No mistake as they hit the net for the 4th time. Hanham Ath Yth 4 Bradley Stoke United 0.

On 11 minutes Kieran came on to replace Wesley.

The game continued not at a great pace and few chances were being created by either team. Hanham still probably had the edge as they made some good runs into our box. Ben, Ollie and Andre all stood tall and defended very well.

On 23 minutes after a further run up the field by Hanham they managed to get into our box. Will produced a fantastic close range shot to deny the home team further goals.

Substitution on 26 minutes for Bradley Stoke with Matt being replaced by Fraser.

Within 1 minute Hanham were again surging forward and hit the bar. As the ball bounced back into play it was smashed into the net. Hanham Ath Yth 5 Bradley Stoke 0. 

Substitution on 29 minutes with Sam making way for Kye.

On 36 minutes the referee stopped the game and booked James C and the Hanham number 9.   

Final Substitution for the afternoon with Ben making way for Sam on 38 minutes.

On 40 minutes we witnessed something we know Bradley Stoke can do. Simple passing up the field, towards James S in front of goal. James S remained calm and simply pushed the ball passed the keeper. Simple build up, simple goal. Hanham Ath Yth 5 Bradley Stoke 1.

On 43 minutes a nasty injury to Joe Cole resulted in the final whistle being blown so attention could be given to Joe. All the best Joe and we trust it's not long before you are back with us.........Final score Hanham Ath Yth 5 Bradley Stoke United 1 

Hanham proved a strong side and well organized at the back. When they came forward they passed well and took their chances. A good learning exercise for Bradley Stoke on this first day of the season. On a very warm afternoon well done to everyone who played and all the best to Joe. 

 Goals 1st Half  - None

 Goals 2nd Half - James Snook (40th)

 Hanham Ath. Youth   5

  Bradley Stoke Utd     6

 This weeks award was chosen by a few parents :

 Fanfare Please !!!!!!!!!!

 JAMES CLAYTON

 Well Done

 MAN OF MATCH AWARDS......(as picked by parents & friends)

 James Clayton (1 game)

It's nice to get the award but don't forget you still need the other 10 players !!!!!!

Any queries or comments please email on:

dave.salter@blueyonder.co.uk

Thanks

Dave Salter