24/04/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Camberley Boys Royals  2    Hawley Raiders Colts  1

A full squad once again allowed Royals the luxury of playing exactly the same team for the second week in succession. Winning the toss, they elected close their league campaign with the bright sunshine at their backs.

Camberley dominated the opening stages, forcing Hawley to pack out their defence. With numbers back behind the ball, Royals found it tough to work openings. Scott tried his luck from distance, and then seemed to get the ball stuck under his feet when handily positioned. Soon after, and Charlie almost applied the finishing touch after good work down the left from Ben.

As the first half continued, few clear cut chances were being created, with both defences strong and quick. In the closing moments, Ben broke clear through the centre and played a diagonal pass into the path of Alex. The return pass would have put Royals leading goal scorer clear, but Alex had the confidence to go it alone, and was denied by some very good defending.

After a goal-less opening half, Royals launched an attack straight from kick off after the break. Jack's pass from deep found Alex, who spun and played into Scott's feet. As Scott moved forwards, he played a perfect return pass to Alex who had continued his run, taking him deep inside the Hawley area, before finishing into the corner of the net to break the deadlock.

The game had opened up a little, although both defences remained on top. A second goal for Camberley would give them some breathing space, and Alex F was so close to providing it. A fine strike was heading for the corner of the goal before the Hawley keeper finger-tipped around the post - a great save.

Into the final ten minutes and a ball down the right channel appeared to be going nowhere, but it was mis-controlled to give Hawley a throw in. Pushing a couple more players up, the ball was worked along the front of the area, and a low shot seemed to bend around Daniel. George was unsighted, and as he started to move to his right, he was wrong-footed as the ball straightened up and managed to find its way into the net.

Now the game was level again, Hawley looked to be gaining the upper hand, and for the next few moments put pressure on the Royals defence. Two efforts from distance were comfortably claimed by George, and a cross from the right wing was headed behind for a corner.

After weathering the storm, Royals began to find more room in the opposing third. After forcing a few corners of their own, Scott and James both came close to finding the winner, but the deciding goal looked as though it would never arrive. Then, with just seconds remaining, James won a challenge on the edge of the Colts area and flicked forwards to Scott, who hooked into the top corner for a dramatic late winner.

At the end of the game, all the players were thanked for their contributions in what has been a thoroughly enjoyable first season at 11-a-side. With a couple of strong sides in the division, and waiting for the last few games to be played out, Royals have secured a place in the top three - no mean achievement with so many new players. On the field today, Scott, with a goal and an assist, held off challenges from Tyrone and Reggie to claim the Man of the Match award.

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17/04/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Camberley Boys Royals  1    Crookham Rovers Invaders  1

Third placed Royals welcomed second placed Crookham Rovers on a sunny morning at Frimley Lodge. The return of Alex F and Charlie H meant that Camberley had a full squad to choose from, and every player would need to be fully involved if they were to get a positive result out of what everyone anticipated would be a really tough game.

Crookham were looking to secure their runners up position, and attacked in numbers straight from kick off, creating an early chance from which they shot wide of the target. Within moments, Invaders stretched Camberley's defence again, this time shooting over when well placed.

Camberley were finding it difficult to get out of their own half, and a third decent chance went the visitors way. George needing to make a great save to his right to keep the ball out.

With quarter of an hour gone, Royals finally started to get into the game, and despite being consigned to their own half for lengthy periods, Scott produced Camberley's first strike on goal, with a clever, improvised effort from 20 yards.

Camberley made some changes, bringing Jack on in defensive midfield, and Alex F on the right, and their normal balance was restored. Royals began to make more of a game of it, and gradually started to play some football in the right half of the pitch. The running from deep from Ben and Alex F started to give Rovers something to think about, with the Crookham defence playing a tight line quite far up the pitch, Camberley had opportunities to break through the offside trap, and although they didn't manage to quite time the pass and run, the closing moments of the half gave encouragement that there was a possible route through.

As with their earlier league encounter, the opening period finished goal-less, and a different Camberley team emerged after the break. After one or two promising runs, Ben latched onto a Jack's pass from deep. Sprinting down the left channel, Ben had just enough pace to keep clear of the Invaders lightning quick defenders, and after pulling inside, Ben looped a shot up and over the Crookham keeper and into the corner from the tightest of angles, and Camberley were a goal up.

The goal gave the whole side a lift, and whilst Crookham remained a threat coming forwards, Camberley created the better of the openings. Ten minutes into the second half and a cross from the right picked out Charlie T at the far post. His well struck effort had goal written all over it until Invaders keeper pulled off a terrific save.

Alex F was the next to get beyond the last line of defence, but Crookham's defenders managed to catch him, push him out wide, and break up the attack. Moments later, and Ben was through again, bringing another great save out of the keeper.

With a quarter of an hour to go, and Crookham threw men forwards in an effort to get back level. Tyrone and Daniel in the centre were proving to be very strong, so play was pushed down both flanks. From one ball into the centre, and almighty scramble broke out in the Royals penalty area, before Tyrone came out with the ball, and Jack making the final clearance.

Five minutes later, and the referee penalised Alex for a high foot on the edge of the area. Although obstruction is normally followed by an indirect free kick, Crookham were allowed to go direct, and the shot flew over George's head for an equalising goal.

Despite this setback, Camberley were still having the better of the chances, with Tyrone on the end of a Crookham clearance after a left wing corner, and trying his luck from 25 yards. The ball only just cleared the crossbar. A scramble in the Rovers area soon after saw both Ben and Charlie go close, before Scott's overhead kick went narrowly wide of the post.

In a nervous last few minutes, both sides had further opportunities, but the score remained unchanged, and both teams claimed a share of the spoils - probably about right on the number of chances.

Apart from the first ten minutes, where Camberley weren't at the races, a great effort all round from every one of the boys today. George once again had a terrific game in goal, and both Daniel and Tyrone were proving very difficult to play against, with some energetic play, complimented by some determined tackling. Up front, Charlie T had a good second half, and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet, and Ben's powerful running, pace, and eye for goal has once again brought rewards.

Man of the Match today was Jack, who played to his strengths, was strong in the tackle, got his head on things, and steadied the ship at a time we really needed it.

One more game to go, and the boys be hoping that they can sign off with a league victory.

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10/04/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Camberley Town Rebels  2    Camberley Boys Royals  4

On a warm, sunny morning, Royals first game back after Easter was a reverse of their previous league game, and the chance to gain revenge over near neighbours, Camberley Town Rebels. Alex F was missing his first Royals game in over 3 years, and with Charlie H also absent for the first time since signing back in October, the remaining twelve boys lined up with George in goal, Thomas, Daniel, Tyrone and James at the back, Reggie, Alex C, Sam, Scott and Ben in the middle, with Charlie T up front. Jack was kept back as the first change.

After a scrappy early start, with play becoming very congested at times in midfield, Royals started to find some width through Alex C and Sam, and were rewarded when the ball was played into the box from the right. Ben was first to react, sweeping the ball into the corner of the net for the game's opening goal.

Ten minutes in, and Ben took the ball from Reggie's pass, and sped down the right wing. He looked up and picked out Charlie at the far post, who connected well, but the goalkeeper was equal to it, pushing the ball behind for a corner.

Royals were seeing a lot of the ball in the Rebels half, and Scott, Alex C and Sam all had chances to extend the lead before Royals second arrived; Ben getting his second with a low drive from the edge of the box that found the bottom left corner.

Town were close to reducing the arrears two minutes later after winning a free kick on the edge of the area. After making a hash initially, the referee had not given them the signal to take the kick, and they were allowed to retake it. Their second attempt was much better, and needed George to push the ball clear, with Jack completing the clearance.

Five minutes before the half time break, and Reggie won a challenge in midfield. He skipped past one challenge, jinked past another, and ran clear towards the Rebels penalty area. Still with plenty to do, Reggie calmly clipped the ball wide of the advancing Camberley Town keeper, and into the back of the net for 3-0.

With just seconds remaining in the half, a lack of concentration gave Rebels a lifeline. Following a free kick, the ball was laid back to the edge of the area and a well struck shot went through a sea of bodies before bouncing into the corner of the net.

Having been given a boost, another goal after the break for Camberley Town would have made for a tense finale, and to their credit, Rebels were pressing forwards in an effort to close the gap. From one corner on the right wing, a flick on was parried by George, and the follow up header looped just clear of the crossbar. Moments later and a snapshot from inside the Royals area was well saved by George low to his right.

Royals most likely source of more goals looked to be on the counter attack. After Charlie was caught offside, he and Ben timed their runs perfectly a few moments later. Unfortunately, Scott delayed and was forced to check inside and couldn't deliver the pass that would have put either of them clear.

Midway through the half and a much better breakaway. James won a challenge on the left and played the ball up to the halfway line to Charlie, who controlled and turned in one movement and played a pass neatly into Ben's path. Ben was clear, and hit a dipping drive over the Rebels keeper and into the corner of the net for 4-1.

Having already bagged three goals, Ben once again had too much pace for his marker, and made a great chance for himself down the right channel. He beat the keeper on his near post with a low drive, which hit the outside of the post before going behind for a goal kick.

With the referee looking at his watch, Camberley Town won another corner on the right. The ball floated over the man at the near post, and an unmarked player was on hand to side foot a consolation goal with the last kick of the match.

After being beaten by the same side just a few short weeks ago, today's victory was the ideal way to bounce back. It was pleasing to see the side working hard for each other once more, although they did appear quite tired in the second half, not helped by the hot weather.

Alex C and Sam both had good first halves, and George really showed at times how far he is developing as a young goalkeeper. Man of the match today was Reggie, who was exceptional. Everybody was absolutely delighted that his hard work, determination, and all round team play was finally rewarded with his first goal for the club. It has been a long time coming, but was one of those special moments that puts a smile on your face when you have been working with these lads over the course of a season. Thoroughly well deserved, and well done!

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27/03/2010 (Friendly)

Cove Panthers  3    Camberley Boys Royals  2

With no game next weekend due to Easter, and no league game today, Royals filled the void with a short trip to Cove, who had already completed their league campaign.

George continued in goal, with Tyrone and Daniel at centre back. James and Charlie H at fullback, and Jack just in front. Two Alex's were wide with Ben and Scott in central midfield, and Charlie T the lone forward.

Camberley opened the scoring on four minutes, when Ben latched onto a through ball, before racing through and slotting into the corner.

Cove equalised on 10 minutes from the penalty spot after Jack was adjudged to have handled. He was a little unlucky, as the ball was struck at him from only a couple of yards away. The penalty was low and hard, and gave George no chance.

Cove took the lead ten minutes into the second half, capitalising on some slack Camberley midfield play. They all switched off after a defensive clearance, and once the ball had been intercepted, Panthers outnumbered them in the penalty area, and made it 2-1.

Royals equalised with two minutes left. Scott was one on one with the last defender, beat his man, and ran on to prod the ball past the keeper for 2-2.

Deep into injury time, and a coss from the right led to a scramble. Three or four swinging legs failed to clear the danger, but the ball landed at the feet of a Cove player to score the deciding goal.

With Sam, Reggie and Thomas all missing this morning, Camberley were down to just eleven players. With Alex C carrying a knock, and Alex F having a quiet game, it was no surprise that they were on the back foot for long periods. With the midfield being almost completely over-run, and no opportunities to change things, we were over-worked defensively at times. Although the result was immaterial, the back four, plus George and Jack competed very well, typified by Daniel, Charlie H, who had a very good game, and the outstanding Tyrone.

Finally, a big thanks to Mikey and all at Cove Panthers for hosting this mornings game, which must be the only match in NEHYL this year to have been arranged over Facebook!

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20/03/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Camberley Boys Royals  0    Camberley Town Rebels  2

Camberley Town Rebels made the short trip to a wet and windy Sixth Form College, re-uniting many school classmates, although their friendship was to be put on hold for an hour, at least.

Alex C was available again this week, meaning that Royals had a full squad to choose from. He started on the left on midfield with Charlie T on the right. Scott and Ben occupied the central roles with Reggie providing the protection behind them. Daniel and Tyrone continued in the middle of defence, with James and Charlie H at full-back. Sam was selected up front and George in goal, so Thomas, Jack and Alex F all started from the bench.

Royals started brightly, and immediately took the game to Camberley Town, seemingly enjoying having the wind at their backs. The ball was spending a lot of time in and around the Rebels area, and their defence was having to work very hard to restrict Royals to a series of early corners.

Continuing to press, Alex C and Sam both had chances to strike the ball at goal, delaying just a little too long to test the Rebels goalkeeper. Ten minutes in, and Daniel had Royals first strike at goal, although he shot narrowly wide after the ball had sat up nicely for him.

Town were really finding it difficult to get out of their half. Ben made a great run down the left channel, but went for goal when a cross would have provided Sam or Charlie with an almost open goal. From the following goal kick, Scott intercepted and advanced on goal. The referee had stopped play, however, as the ball had not left the area.

Ben was rested for the final ten minutes of the half, pushing Jack into defensive midfield and encouraging Reggie to come forwards. The move almost backfired when, after Royals were awarded a throw-in on the right, Charlie H and Jack both went to take it, leaving a gaping hole. Rebels won posession and attacked the left channel that was now unoccupied, although Royals were let off by a hurried finish that was dragged wide of the near post.

Into first half stoppage time, and disaster struck. Royals defence had pushed forward too far, and with the midfield having switched off too, Rebels won the ball in the Royals half and played the ball through the centre. As the Rebels' striker advanced into the area, Tyrone turned and challenged for the ball, but was unluckily penalised for a foul. Rebels converted the penalty kick and went into the break a goal up with their only shot on target of the half.

Some changes to personnel to start the second half pushing Ben into the centre forward position, as Royals searched for a goal. With the advantage of the strong wind and rain behind them, Town went pressing for a second, and eight minutes in, Royals were dealt another blow. A corner from the right wing was missed by the man on the near post, and from a yard out, Rebels were presented with the easiest of chances, and went two up.

If Royals were to get back into the game, it would have to be soon. Twice, promising breaks were ended when players were caught offside. Ben had a similar run ended soon afterwards, although his run was too well timed for the linesman to keep up, but he missed the chance anyway.

Midway though the half and a good move down the left involving Reggie and Charlie, Scott's low centre picked out Alex eight yards from goal with just the keeper to beat. After being so deadly in front of goal a week earlier, he fired wide, and the chance went begging.

Further attacks were broken up by the visiting keeper, and his long wind-assisted clearances were becoming a cause for some concern. Tyrone and Daniel had already cleaned up before a further attack sent a Rebels forward racing clear. George did very well to palm out the initial well struck shot, but could only watch as he failed to put the rebound over the line.

Some late action around the Rebels goal, but the ball just wouldn't fall into the right areas, it just wasn't to be Royals' day.

A disappointing and very costly defeat for the Royals, who were not at their best. In attack, they were guilty of squandering some really good chances with players straying offside, electing to dribble when well placed, and shooting from acute angles when better options were available. Defensively we were often caught out of position leaving players unmarked, or simply standing on the wrong side.

With a few players not reaching the heights of their more recent performances, Daniel was given the Man of the Match award, for being one of a few that did.

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13/03/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Hook United Whites  0    Camberley Boys Royals  7

Royals were without Alex C, but had an otherwise full squad who were looking to continue their recent good form. Hook had improved since our earlier league encounter, and Royals knew that complacency would come at a cost, so every player was asked to replicate the same effort as they had shown in previous weeks.

Line up today saw George continue in goal, with Charlie H and James in the full back positions. In front of Daniel and Tyrone, Jack continued in his holding midfield role, with Scott and Ben in the two central roles. Providing the width for Sam up front was Alex F on the right, and Charlie T on the left.

The new role seemed to suit Charlie early on, and following one or two interesting runs, he burst down the left channel and into the area. His shot which followed was on target, but parried out by the home goalkeeper. Alex F latched onto the loose ball with his back to goal, before controlling, turning, and passing the ball into the back of the net for the game's opening goal.

Charlie was finding plenty of room down the left channel, and had two more chances, first dragging wide, and then not finding enough power with a left foot from further out.

Despite creating the better of the chances, Hook showed willingness to get forwards, and twice came close to threading a killer ball through the centre. First Tyrone, then Daniel both got back at pace to win possession with well timed interceptions. It was from a similar ball through the centre that Royals should have extended their lead. Scott was sent clear with, and in almost identical fashion to the previous week, the home goalkeeper managed to get the faintest of touches to divert the ball out for a corner.

Midway through the half, and Jack's throw from the right hand touchline bounced invitingly, and Scott made amends with a dipping shot from distance that sailed over the home goalkeeper and doubled Camberley's lead. With Scott and Tyrone both rested until half time, Royals lost some potency coming forwards, and a scrappy and fairly quiet final ten minutes ticked past to the half time interval.

The second half saw Tyrone and Thomas pair up at centre-back, and with Ben being rested, Daniel was given the chance to get forwards. Following Reggie's measured through pass, both Daniel and Alex F were put clear of the last man. Alex was first to it, and as the goalkeeper came off of his line, he calmly passed the ball into the corner of the net for his second goal of the game - a really tidy finish.

Moments later, and a similar pass forwards put Daniel through. Again the keeper came out, but seemed to lose control of the ball. Daniel kept his composure and confidently placed the ball in the back of the net for his first goal for the club, and made the game all but safe at 4-0.

Hook, to their credit, never threw in the towel, and kept looking for a goal of their own. A determined run and cross from the right picked out an unmarked player in the centre. A looping shot looked to be dropping into the top corner, but just cleared the crossbar by a matter of centimeters.

When play resumed, Royals took the ball over the halfway line and a measured pass from Scott found Ben in the Whites penalty area. The referee adjudged the tackle as unfair, and somewhat surprisingly gave Camberley a penalty kick. After some debate, with Daniel the elected next penalty taker, and Alex F on a hat-trick, Charlie T emerged with the ball and placed it on the spot. He stepped up, and hit the ball high to the goalkeepers right, and watched as it came back into play off the post. Incredibly, our third failure in a row from 12 yards.

Royals were piling forwards in numbers, with Tyrone making regular appearances with the ball on the edge of the Hook penalty area, and it seemed only a matter of time before more goals arrived. Ben's corner on the left wing was perfectly flighted. Scott met the ball on the full with his head, but it was blocked by a low save. Scott was on hand to follow up and slot the rebound into the net for Royals' fifth.

Into the final ten minutes, and Alex F once again had a chance of notching a treble. As he advanced on goal, a brave save from the Hook keeper kept the ball out. Ben followed up to make it 6-0. Alex then had another chance from the left of the area, but as everyone watched, the ball trickled agonsingly wide.

Then, with just three minutes remaining, Reggie's pass forward was flicked on by Jack, and Alex F was clear on goal. He made no mistake with another precise finish to complete his hat-trick.

Some good performances. Charlie T was a little upset missing from the penalty spot, although it takes a brave player to step up and take one. He had a fair game today despite this. Tyrone was a colossus in defence once again, and Reggie, despite suffering with a cold, gives the team a real boost when he plays. Pleased for Daniel for deservedly opening his account for the club. Alex F promised his mum a hat-trick before the game, to celebrate her birthday, and he duly obliged. He was the pick of the boys today, and also goes away with the Man of the Match award.

Verdict: The juggling around with player positions, and resting of every one of our outfield players today did disrupt our pattern a little, although it was worth it to see what options are available within the squad. Four games remaining, and some tough challenges lie ahead. I hope the boys can take the confidence that a win like this gives without becoming complacent. If in return they can give 100% in the last few games, they may have something extra to celebrate at the end of the season. Let's hope they do, although I am proud of every one of them for what they have achieved so far this season. Well done all!

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06/03/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Crookham Rovers Invaders  1    Camberley Boys Royals  1

Having played the Invaders at both Under 9 and Under 10's, we were under absolutely no illusions that we would be in for a tough game on a bright but cold morning at the Abercorn. With midfield dynamo Reggie missing due to sickness, the remaining squad needed to up their game to prevent our opponents from leap-frogging our league position.

Opting to keep a strong core, the returning Tyrone was selected in the centre of defence alongside Daniel, with Jack playing just in front. Ben and Scott forming the centre of midfield with both Alex's providing the width. James and Charlie H started in the full-back positions with Sam the lone striker, and George continuing in goal.

From the opening minutes, it was evident that the two sides were evenly matched, with a battle developing in midfield, and both defences strong in the tackle and clearing the danger. Clear-cut chances were at a premium, and it was 10 minutes in before Alex's run from deep took him towards the Invaders area. His shot from distance didn't trouble the 'keeper.

Five minues later, and Crookham's first real chance, as the ball fell nicely from a right wing corner. A shot on target got past George, but Jack was well placed to block the ball on the line and knock it to safety.

Royals forced a couple of corners of their own. Ben's well flighted delivery from the left wing bounced invitingly in front of Alex C, but he couldn't make contact, at the ball was claimed by a greatful home goalkeeper. The referee's whistle sounded soon after to end a goalless, but well contested first half.

Royals made some half time chances, with Alex C and James making way from Alex F and Charlie H, but it was Crookham who dominated early on after the restart, as Camberley lost some concentration and some shape. Tyrone and Daniel worked tirelessly to keep the Crookham attackers out.

Ten minutes in, and after absorbing the Invaders pressure, Jack fell awkwardly during a tussle for the ball. Royals had several opportunities to kick the ball out, but didn't take them. With the referee playing on, Crookham capitalised fully on their momentary man advantage and worked the ball to the edge of the area, where a low, hard shot flew into the net for 1-0 Crookham.

James was brought on as an immediate change for Jack, and slotted into the defensive midfield role. Royals responded to going behind immediately, launching their first purposeful attack of the half. Ben's run through had promise until it was stopped by linesman's flag.

Midway through the half, and Scott latched onto a through-ball and won the challenge with his marker to advance on goal. He slipped the ball beyond the keeper, but dragged it wide of the left hand post.

The next chance followed soon after, when Ben's powerful run from midfield took him out to the right. He played a pass inside to Scott, who then found Alex C. The ball was then rolled back to Ben, who smashed it into the net off of the right hand post for 1-1.

From the kick off, Crookham went close to regaining the lead when a low powerful shot at goal was left by George, and everyone watched as it whistled past the left hand upright.

Chances were beginning to fall now as players from both sides began to tire. Alex C was first to react to a bouncing ball in the Crookham area, his goalbound shot brought a fantastic one-handed save by the goalkeeper, who tipped the ball round the post for a corner.

With 5 minutes to go, a high ball into the Royals area caused some panic, as it was allowed to bounce. George claimed the ball at the second attempt under pressure from two Crookham players. From the next attack, George had to down bravely at the feet of an onrushing Invaders forward, taking a heavy whack on both knees in the process, which needed some treatment. Luckily he was OK to continue for the final couple of minutes.

Incredibly, Royals created a golden opportunity to claim all the points in the final minute. Tyrone, who had another impressive game, won the ball inside his own half and played the ball downfield. Scott outpaced his marker and closed in on goal. As everyone held their breath in anticipation, he placed the ball into the corner, but it didn't have enough pace on it to get past the keeper, who managed to scramble the ball out to safety.

The game ended soon afterwards with both teams getting a point - possibly on reflection a fair result, and one that keeps the battle for second place in the table wide open with a handful of games remaining. Royals defence was solid today, including Jack in front, and George behind them. In a close run contest, it was James who was awarded Man of the Match.

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20/02/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Finchampstead Royals  0    Camberley Boys Royals  2

With Sam missing this weekend, the loss of Tyrone on the morning of the match left Royals with a squad of just 12 players for the trip to Finchampstead. Scott deputised at centre half alongside Daniel, with Alex C given the wide left midfield role, and Jack playing just in front of the back four.

Kicking up the slope with the enforced changes, it would not have been a surprise if Camberley's attacking options from midfield were a little light. Jack, however, in winning a tackle in the middle of the park, enable him to push a pass beyond the last defender, from which Ben was quickly in on goal to give Royals the lead with barely a minute on the clock.

An excellent start got even better when another pass forwards from Jack was flicked on by Ben. Alex F controlled the ball, dribbled into the area, and produced a moment of skill, cleverly lifting the ball over the keeper and into the net for 2-0.

Royals midfield continued to dominate, finding space down both flanks, and with Ben's pace a constant threat, it seemed a matter of time before the lead was extended with more goals. Ben, Charlie and Jack all had chances to grab a third, but were denied by some determined blocks by the Finch defence.

Finchampstead began to regain some confidence as the half wore on, and they began to play some football in the Camberley half. Royals defended resolutely, although on a couple of occasions, their reluctance to clear the ball to safety saw them play themselves into trouble. Fortunately a defenders boot reacted quickest each time, and cleared the danger. Finch had other opportunities too from goal-kicks, which had been scuffed from the hard playing surface. The clearances were intercepted by waiting home players, but none were converted into clear goalscoring chances.

As the half drew to a close, Ben had further chances to extend Camberley's lead, but was thwarted first by a great save, then a brave block from the home goalkeeper. Another chance fell after a ball over the top, the flick-on came from a defender, but Ben's run was stopped by a linesman's flag, when on another day he would have been allowed to run on and score.

Royals had the advantage of kicking down the slope in the second half, but started sloppily, and Finchampstead took the initiative. Some determined defending, mainly from Thomas, and some back-tracking from Reggie, helped to keep their goal intact. Camberley were playing very much on the break now, determined to keep what they had, and after 15 minutes of absorbing pressure, a fantastic strike from a Finch forward had George beaten all ends up, but smacked against the crossbar and out to safety. Had that gone in, a nervous final ten minutes would have followed.

Finchampstead were battling hard and trying to get beyond the Camberley defence, which was holding firm, but with Reggie running at the home defence, and Scott pushing forwards when he could, the next goal could have gone either way. Reggie went on a typical run that took him past two defenders and deep into the area. Unfortunately he took just one touch too many and allowed the keeper to get down and make another brave save.

Reggie once more got through on the end of a crossfield pass from Scott, and was stopped by a well-timed tackle inside the area, after working a great position for himself. Despite trading further blows, neither goalkeeper was called into action in the final few minutes.

A good team performance against a hard working side whose league position seems a little false on the evidence we have seen over our two league meetings. I was very pleased with the clean sheet, and the back four was well marshalled by Scott and Daniel in the centre. There were many other good performances, and the Man of the Match was awarded to Thomas, who blocked, tackled and remained 100% committed throughout.

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06/02/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Camberley Boys Royals  2    Beacon Hill Harriers  1

With James available again this week, Royals had a full squad to pick from as they hosted Beacon Hill Harriers for the second and final time this season.

From the early passages of play, it was evident that this would be a cat and mouse contest, with Royals edging it in midfield, but needing to be very wary of Beacon Hill on the break. Some measured passing from Reggie and Scott on the left, and the more direct and powerful running of Alex F on the right, providing plenty of possession around the Harriers penalty area. Ben and Alex F both received the ball in dangerous positions deep inside the box, but neither seriously tested the keeper.

Harriers continued to make a few breaks from deep, and after Thomas has mis-timed a clearance, the cavalry charge towards George's goal was terminated by Tyrone, who had got back at speed and perfectly timed his interception.

Reggie's determination saw him get past two tackles and out to the left of the area. His low cross fell for Ben, who turned and shot first time, narrowly the wrong side of the post. With half time approaching, it was the visitors who almost opened the scoring, when a corner from the left wing curled into the box and eluded everyone. Just as it was about to cross the line, Daniel hacked the ball to safety. It was a very close shave, and was the last noteworthy effort of what turned out to be a goal-less first half.

As the second half restarted, the game remained very tight and it really did look as though a single goal could win the game. Would it be Camberley, who were doing all of the pressing, but not managing to put away their half-chances? Or would a long ball see Harriers nick one on the break? Then, after 45 goal-less minutes, Jack won a tackle in deep in his half, and played Alex F in on the right hand side. Alex outpaced and out-muscled his marker and got into the penalty area before unleashing a stinging drive into the far corner of the net. The goal was fantastic, and the celebrations to follow were almost as good, and it was 1-0 Royals.

Camberley sensed that they could get another, and immediately attacked the right flank. Alex again involved as the ball was squared to Ben, but the ball seemed to get caught up under his feet and the shot was smothered. Ben had another chance soon after Scott played the perfect ball inside. With the angle narrowing with every touch, and with support from Alex F available square in the centre, Ben opted to shoot across the keeper, and watched as the ball came back off the far post.

Harriers tried in vain to get back in the game, finding Tyrone and Daniel almost impassable when they broke forwards. The one time they did penetrate the Royals area, a fantastic block from Charlie H diverted the ball out to safety, saving an almost certain goal.

There were less than ten minutes remaining, and the second goal that Camberley had been threatening finally arrived. Once again Reggie and Alex F were heavily involved in the build up before 'Flarts' squared a ball to Ben, and his low drive beat the keeper at his near post for 2-0.

It was all Camberley at this point. Scott and Charlie T both saw efforts go wide, and following some good work from Alex C and Ben, Reggie let fly from 25 yards, and was narrowly off target for what would have been a deserved third goal. Instead, Royals had to endure a couple of tense minutes as they gifted Harriers a goal. Daniel's strength and intelligence in defence shepherded the ball behind for a goal kick, although he had taken a nasty stud-induced gash in his thigh in the process. George's goal kick was played wide to the right, where it sat up perfectly to be volleyed back over his head for 2-1.

Daniel's game was over, but Jack filled in at centre-half to see out the final minutes, and Royals held on to complete a fantastic and much deserved double over high-flying Beacon Hill.

Many players deserve a mention, including both Alex's, who both contributed to today's victory. Reggie was once again absolutely outstanding in the middle of the park. His energy, work rate and immense battling qualities make him a handful for anyone. His link up play with Scott and Ben on another day would yield more goals, fortunately today, two was enough - just. Defensively today, we looked strong, with Daniel and Tyrone forming a formidable partnership. It was Tyrone, whose typically energetic and committed play, earned him the Man of the Match award.

A tough battle, in several ways, and six points from two matches against a team above us shows the potential in the squad when they all play well. Another tough game coming up next week, but we will have nothing to fear if the boys continue to put in the effort displayed in the last couple of weeks.

06/02/2010 NEHYL Division 4

Camberley Boys Royals 2 Beacon Hill Harriers 1

With James available again this week, Royals had a full squad to pick from as they hosted Beacon Hill Harriers for the second and final time this season.

From the early passages of play, it was evident that this would be a cat and mouse contest, with Royals edging it in midfield, but needing to be very wary of Beacon Hill on the break. Some measured passing from Reggie and Scott on the left, and the more direct and powerful running of Alex F on the right, providing plenty of possession around the Harriers penalty area. Ben and Alex F both received the ball in dangerous positions deep inside the box, but neither seriously tested the keeper.

Harriers continued to make a few breaks from deep, and after Thomas has mis-timed a clearance, the cavalry charge towards George's goal was terminated by Tyrone, who had got back at speed and perfectly timed his interception.

Reggie's determination saw him get past two tackles and out to the left of the area. His low cross fell for Ben, who turned and shot first time, narrowly the wrong side of the post. With half time approaching, it was the visitors who almost opened the scoring, when a corner from the left wing curled into the box and eluded everyone. Just as it was about to cross the line, Daniel hacked the ball to safety. It was a very close shave, and was the last noteworthy effort of what turned out to be a goal-less first half.

As the second half restarted, the game remained very tight and it really did look as though a single goal could win the game. Would it be Camberley, who were doing all of the pressing, but not managing to put away their half-chances? Or would a long ball see Harriers nick one on the break? Then, after 45 goal-less minutes, Jack won a tackle in deep in his half, and played Alex F in on the right hand side. Alex outpaced and out-muscled his marker and got into the penalty area before unleashing a stinging drive into the far corner of the net. The goal was fantastic, and the celebrations to follow were almost as good, and it was 1-0 Royals.

Camberley sensed that they could get another, and immediately attacked the right flank. Alex again involved as the ball was squared to Ben, but the ball seemed to get caught up under his feet and the shot was smothered. Ben had another chance soon after Scott played the perfect ball inside. With the angle narrowing with every touch, and with support from Alex F available square in the centre, Ben opted to shoot across the keeper, and watched as the ball came back off the far post.

Harriers tried in vain to get back in the game, finding Tyrone and Daniel almost impassable when they broke forwards. The one time they did penetrate the Royals area, a fantastic block from Charlie H diverted the ball out to safety, saving an almost certain goal.

There were less than ten minutes remaining, and the second goal that Camberley had been threatening finally arrived. Once again Reggie and Alex F were heavily involved in the build up before 'Flarts' squared a ball to Ben, and his low drive beat the keeper at his near post for 2-0.

It was all Camberley at this point. Scott and Charlie T both saw efforts go wide, and following some good work from Alex C and Ben, Reggie let fly from 25 yards, and was narrowly off target for what would have been a deserved third goal. Instead, Royals had to endure a couple of tense minutes as they gifted Harriers a goal. Daniel's strength and intelligence in defence shepherded the ball behind for a goal kick, although he had taken a nasty stud-induced gash in his thigh in the process. George's goal kick was played wide to the right, where it sat up perfectly to be volleyed back over his head for 2-1.

Daniel's game was over, but Jack filled in at centre-half to see out the final minutes, and Royals held on to complete a fantastic and much deserved double over high-flying Beacon Hill.

Many players deserve a mention, including both Alex's, who both contributed to today's victory. Reggie was once again absolutely outstanding in the middle of the park. His energy, work rate and immense battling qualities make him a handful for anyone. His link up play with Scott and Ben on another day would yield more goals, fortunately today, two was enough - just. Defensively today, we looked strong, with Daniel and Tyrone forming a formidable partnership. It was Tyrone, whose typically energetic and committed play, earned him the Man of the Match award.

A tough battle, in several ways, and six points from two matches against a team above us shows the potential in the squad when they all play well. Another tough game coming up next week, but we will have nothing to fear if the boys continue to put in the effort displayed in the last couple of weeks.