Match Reports Under 13s Wasps

West Hill Wasps 1 v 1 Cullompton Rangers (Cup Final) (1 v 2 AET)

Saturday, 10 May 2008

EXTRA TIME IN CUP FINAL CLASSIC The West Hill Wasps ended their excellent league winning season with the narrowest of defeats against the very excellent Cully Rangers.  The weather was glorious, parents, grand parents, brothers and sisters, Uncle Tom Cobbley and all turned out for a thrilling game of youth football played at the highest level.  Possession was even Stevens in the first half with neither team dominating and both teams fielding their strongest back line.  For the Wasps, skipper Mark Woolley gave a passionate performance inspiring his back line to give their best performance of the season.  Leo Jones worked his socks off and Sam Carden ran a 100 miles in both halves turning defence into attack.  Central midfielder Alex Dunn played centre half for the final and gave a Beckenbauer master class as sweeper running the game from the rear.  Central midfielders Jack Holmes, Jason Pope, Cory Simpson, Harry Nolan, Luke Iddon and Richard Harvey fought an epic battle with the Rangers midfield but both teams cancelled each other out.  Up front for the Wasps James Randall and Ollie Woodley worked their magic and showed their guts and guile but were unable to unpick the Cully defence.  With 10 minutes of the game to play the Cully keeper misjudged his goal kick sending the ball to Wasps striker James Randall who instinctively volleyed the ball into the back of the net putting the Wasps 1-0 up with 10 minutes to play.  The Wasps celebrated their first ever cup final goal with true style and a rapturous ovation from their eager supporters.  The celebration was however short lived as Cully replied with a wave of aggressive sorties, scoring the equaliser with minutes to play. After the first half of extra time the score still remained 1-1 and in the final 10 minutes with both teams totally exhausted, slick football turned to gruelling endurance and minutes from the final whistle Cully poked home the winner. On the day the game was played with passion, pride and the fairest of competitive spirit.  Cullompton Rangers shaded the game in the later minutes with the more aggressive approach play and for that deserved to lift the  trophy.  The Wasps will reflect on the fantastic season they have had and look forward to next seasons highly competitive league 1.  MOTM Honours – Alex Dunn Scorer – James Randall Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Luke Iddon, Jack Holmes, Leo Jones, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley  Report by Trevor Nolan

Alphington Wolves 1 v 2 West Hill Wasps

Saturday, 19 April 2008

WEST HILL U’13s  LEAGUE CHAMPIONS From the start of the season West Hill and Alphington have remained in the top two positions, swapping places as the weeks progressed.  Ironically the title decider came down to this the last game of the season.  Only a win would see the Wasps claim the title, the Alphas needing only to draw.  With both teams evenly matched the game was never going to be about silky smooth football with one team out playing the other.  True grit and passion was the order of the day and both teams delivered in bucket loads.  The Alphas opened the scoring in the 7th minute catching the visiting defenders off guard with a strike from wide, Wasps full back Luke Iddon came within inches of clearing the ball off the line.  Moments later a cross from Jason Pope found James Randall lurking in the box.  Randalls flick sent the ball goal wards, the Alpha keeper and defenders all tried to clear but fox in the box Richard Harvey poked the ball home for the 1-1 equaliser.  The game continued end to end till the half time whistle with neither team dominant. From the restart both teams battled for midfield possession.  Time and again the Alphas launched one over the top for their pacy strikers but the even pacier  Sam Carden, skipper Mark Woolley and gutsy Leo Jones were on hand to nullify the threat.  For the Wasps, midfielder and talisman for the team Alex Dunn consistently picked up the loose balls, turned defence into attack with direct runs, cutting swathes through the Alphington midfield.  Playing wide Harry Nolan and Jack Holmes both gave gritty and determined performances and striker Ollie Woodley showed his skill and trickery around the box.  In the 23rd minute constant pressure from the Wasps now on the front foot forced a corner. Pope crossed in, Dunn flicked on and Randall volleyed into the net, putting the visitors 2-1 in front.  With just over 12 minutes to go the Alphas replied pressing hard putting the visitors on the back foot defending their lead.  Wasps keeper John Buckland yet again kept a cool head, commanding his area and organising his defence.  Dunn dropped back to make up a five man defence and the Wasps soaked up the pressure.  During this passage the Alphas had a chance to make amends but spurned their best chance of the half missing an almost open goal.  One the day there was little or nothing between the two teams and the game was played with tremendous passion and good spirit. MOTM Honours – Alex Dunn Scorers – Richard Harvey, James Randall Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Luke Iddon, Jack Holmes, Leo Jones, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, James Randall, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

Beacon Knights 1 v 12 West Hill Wasps

Saturday, 12 April 2008

A DOZEN FOR THE WASPS IN PENULTIMATE GAME Jason Pope scored a hatrick, Calum McConnachie and James Randall bagged a brace apiece, Harry Nolan, Ollie Woodley, Richard Harvey and Jack Holmes all scored.  Nolan opened the scoring for the Wasps in the 2nd minute and was bought down in the box in the 4th; Jack Holmes calmly dispatched the pen.  From then on the visiting West Hill showed little mercy putting a further six goals past the Knights before the half time whistle.  After the restart the visitors had scored a further three goals within 10 minutes.  In defence skipper Mark Woolley, Leo Jones, Luke Iddon and Macca were rock solid and Keeper John Buckland showed why his team rate him the ‘best in the west’. The Knights however gave a good account of themselves for the remainder of the game, scoring in the 17th minute and finishing with their heads up, giving a very sporting three cheers to the visitors after the final whistle. Two great goals to remember came from Jason Pope who scored a 50yd free kick from the halfway line and Calum McConnachie ‘aka Macca’ who scored a screamer from 40yds wide left. Next Saturday, the Wasps visit Alphington Wolves to replay their November 17th fixture which was abandoned with the Wasps 4-2 up with 20 minutes to play, after the Alpha keeper sustained a knee injury.  A win for the Wasps will crown them league 2 champions.  Alphington need only to draw to take the title MOTM Honours – Go to Jason Pope Scorers – Jason Pope 3, Calum McConnachie 2, James Randall 2, Harry Nolan, Ollie Woodley, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes (pen), ‘OG’ Squad – John Buckland, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Luke Iddon, Jack Holmes, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, James Randall, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

Cup Semi-Final

West Hill Wasps 2 v 1 Pinhoe Spartans

Saturday, 29 March 2008

CUP FINAL PLACE FOR WEST HILL HEROES The whistle blew and the heavens opened right on cue.  God said let there be storm, passion and football.  The mighty Spartans had come to do battle and crush the underdog league 2 Wasps.  Thirteen heroes from West Hill, obeyed the command and gave every last ounce of yellow and black passion to overthrow the raiding Spartans.  The wind favoured the hosts in the first half but both teams contested the ball, scrapping hard for possession and dominance.  The visiting Spartans opened their account in the 15th minute, their pacy striker latching on to a deflected ball, finishing clinically. The game ebbed and flowed and in the 27th minute a yellow and black sortie came up against a barrage of blue.  The visitors cleared their lines but the ball fell to Luke Iddon loitering on the edge of the box.  Iddon struck a left peg peach of a curling ball, the net bulged as the ball nestled in the corner.  The hosts were jubilant.  The half ended 1-1 with nothing between the two sides.  From the restart the Spartans enjoyed a good 10 minute spell but the yellow and black defensive quartet, Sam Carden, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie skippered by ‘man possessed’ Mark Woolley defended with true grit.  Midfielders Richard Harvey, Harry Nolan, Jack Holmes inspired by ‘man on a mission’ Alex Dunn turned the game around forcing the Spartans on to the back foot.  Despite the torrid conditions the Wasps played the better football of the half with some excellent approach play.  Jason Pope and Cory Simpson up front carved open several decent chances, Jack Holmes narrowly missed a goal and the eventual pressure paid off for the Wasps.  With eight minutes of the game remaining Alex Dunn lobbed the keeper from wide midfield putting the hosts into a 2-1 lead.  The Spartans made a last five minute effort to equalise but were unable to deny the hosts thanks to MOTM sweeper keeper John Buckland who had been in great form throughout the whole game, sweeping up most if not all the long balls from ‘over the top’. On the day the weather conditions prevented any silky smooth football but the West Hill team truly deserve their place in the final for a memorable performance of true passion and determination MOTM Honours – Goal Keeper John Buckland Scorers – Luke Iddon, Alex Dunn. Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Luke Iddon, Jack Holmes, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 5 v 3 Sidmouth Junior Vikings

Saturday, 22 March 2008

SCRAPPY GAME The wind put pay to any quality football from the hosts or the visitors but throughout the first half, with the wind in their favour the Wasps kept the Sid on the back foot pinned in their own half.  Luke Iddon slotted home for the Wasps in the second minute.  Until the final minutes of the half the visitors played nine players behind the ball confined mainly to their own area.  The hosts where unable to break down their defences or find any space to operate.  Then finally in the 29th minute Sid broke only to have the ball intercepted by skipper Mark Woolley.  With some neat passing the ball found its way to Richard Harvey, who with space for the first time passed the ball calmly into the net.  The penny dropped for the Wasps and by using the wide players the visitors defence began to slowly open up allowing James Randall to ghost through the green shirts taking the score to 3-0 for the first half. The game opened up further for the second half with the home team trying with some degree of success to play a passing game.  However Sid intercepted an early pass and with the inevitable wind assisted ball over the top scored in the 3rd minute.  The Wasps battled on winning the lions share of possession until the last quarter of the game.  There then followed a flurry of goals.  Iddon scored his second of the game in the 17th minute, Sid replied in the 18th, Alex Dunn made a gut busting run scoring in the 19th and Sidmouth replied again in the 20th minute.  The 5-3 score line remained till the final whistle with neither team really able to successfully cope with the conditions.  On the day the Wasps deserved their 5-3 win. Keeper John Buckland again gave great strength to his defence with clear vocal commands and some excellent reflex shot stopping.  The outfield players however may reflect on the importance to create space using the width and switching play. MOTM Honours – Shared between Alex Dunn and Jack Holmes Scorers – Luke Iddon 2, Richard Harvey, James Randall, Alex Dunn. Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Luke Iddon, Jack Holmes, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

Exwick 1 v 8 West Hill Wasps

Saturday, 15 March 2008

EARLY BATH James Randall scored in the 3rd minute and completed his hatrick before half time.  The hosts simply were not up for the game played in the rain and mud.  In the early minutes the ubiquitous Alex Dunn scored and covered every blade of grass revisiting them in the second half.  Harry Nolan bagged a brace and Oli Woodley and Calum McConnachie scored a goal apiece.  Cory Simpson, Leo Jones, Sam Carden and skipper Mark Woolley coped with ease and midfielders Jack Holmes and Richard Harvey both played well.  With no league official available for the fixture the hosts provided their own referee who quite openly shaved 6 and 7 minutes off the first and second halves respectively, limiting the damage for the home team but also denying the visitors potentially important goal difference. MOTM Honours – Shared between James Randall and Alex Dunn Scorers – James Randall 3, Harry Nolan 2, Alex Dunn, Oli Woodley and Calum McConnachie. Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Luke Iddon, Jack Holmes, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

Brixington Blues 4 v 5 West Hill Wasps (AET) (Cup Match)

Saturday, 8 March 2008

WASPS VICTORIOUS IN CUP THRILLER West Hill came from 2-0 down at half time to beat the Blues 5-4 in extra time.  The game was a classic, the result well deserved and the third league 1 scalp for the underdog Wasps.  The heavy wind was a major factor in both halves and in the first half the Wasps struggled to get any distance on the ball.  The home team continually launched the long ball from deep into the attacking third of the visitors.  Skipper Mark Woolley marshalled his defenders, Calum McConnachie, Leo Jones, and Sam Carden well but the Blues used the wind to their advantage keeping the majority of play in the visitors half.  An early penalty gave Blues the lead, Harry Nolan adjudged to push a Blues striker whilst jumping for the ball.  The visitors had some success and showed their quality playing out from the back with Sam Carden linking up well with Luke Iddon but the inevitable through ball came back in the wind.  In the 18th minute the Blues struck the cross bar, the ball bounced out of the goal mouth, the ref waved play on but the home team linesman lining in the wrong half flagged for the goal and the ref to the dismay of the visitors changed his mind and gave the goal. The Half ended 2-0 to Brixington. From the restart with the wind now in favour of the visitors the Wasps began to dominate play.  Alex Dunn popped up and mopped up in midfield cutting a swathe through the Blue shirts.  Jason Pope opened up the Wasps account with a half volley from the edge of the box.  In the 17th minute against the run of play the home team intercepted a midfield pass scoring a well deserved goal.  Then minutes on Oli Woodley lobbed a sweet looping diagonal ball into the box for Harry Nolan to volley home taking the score to 3-2. The visitors kept the pressure on winning the fourth corner of the half and after a melee in the area, fox in the box James Randall poked in the equaliser minutes from the whistle. The Wasps were again facing the wind for the first 10 mins of extra time but their gritty determination and passion kept the momentum in their favour.  Oli Woodley picked up the ball from midfield, burst into the box but before he could pull the trigger his back leg was taken with a cruel tackle costing the Blues a penalty.  Jack Holmes calmly despatched from the spot taking the Wasps into a 4-3 lead.  Moments later Jason Pope latched onto a diagonal ball wide right and with three Blue shirts in the box and no forward options drilled the ball into the far left corner of the goal putting the visitors 5-3 up. In the final half of extra time despite the wind in their favour the Wasps consolidated their lead with a rugged display of midfield defending but in the final minutes the defence was breeched with the Blues scoring seconds from the final whistle. The game ended 5-4 to the visitors.  On the day the score was a fair result with the Wasps playing the more composed football, showing their patience and great character.  Keeper John Buckland gave an excellent display of goal keeping with assertive vocal commands and a cool head. MOTM Honours -  Shared between Alex Dunn and Jason Pope Scorers – Jason Pope 2, Harry Nolan, James Randall Jack Holmes Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley. Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 6 v 3 Exwick Youth

Saturday, 9 February 2008

WEST HILL  U’13s  - 6             EXWICK YOUTH    U’13s - 3 DUNN ‘N’ DUSTED The heavy pitch favoured the visiting Exwick as they gave the Wasps a run for their money in the first half.  Oli Woodley scored early for the Wasps but the visitors came right back at them closing down, hassling and forcing errors from a disorganised defence.  The hard work paid off for the visitors as they equalised and then took the lead in 10th and 20th minutes.  On the back foot West Hill struggled and looked like they couldn’t buy a pass.  Against the run of play Alex Dunn equalised for the Wasps in the 30th minute.  Undeterred the visitors piled on more pressure scoring again before the half time whistle, winning the first half 3-2. From the restart the Wasps gradually came back into the game as both teams scrapped for possession for an untidy disjointed 25 minutes.  Finally the mighty Dunn took the bull by the horns and powered his way from midfield through a crowded box and drilled home for the Wasps 3-3 equaliser.  Stunned and exhausted the visitors dropped their guard and Oli Woodley scored his second less than a minute later taking the Wasps into the lead.  The home team now on the front foot and attacking at will forced a 33rd minute O.G. and  Dunn sealed the game with another individual run scoring his first ever hatrick. On the day the score line flattered the hosts and arguably the visitors were deserved of a much closer result for their dogged and gutsy performance. MOTM Honours – Alex Dunn Scorers - Alex Dunn 3, Oliver Woodley 2, OG. Squad – John Buckland, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Luke Iddon, Jack Holmes, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

Pinhoe Spitfires 3 v 4 West Hill Wasps

Saturday, 19 January 2008

DEJA VU The home team started brightest picking up most of the loose balls forcing the visiting Wasps to play on the counter.  Harry Nolan opened up the Wasps account with a well drilled ball  from wide, following a deft lay off from Jason Pope.  Two minutes later James Randall connected with Popes corner ball and scored near post.  The balance of play shifted for the remainder of the half with the visiting Wasps winning the midfield battle and showing their class with the better approach play.  Their efforts rewarded with 21st and 30th minute goals from Alex Dunn and Jack Holmes.  The half ended 4-0. Back in early November Pinhoe came back from 4-0 down at half time scoring an incredible four second half goals, the game ended 4-4, could they repeat this in the second half? The pinns came out all guns blazing and scored in the 5th minute.  Lifted, the home team piled on the pressure testing skipper Mark Woolley, Leo Jones and Calum McConnachie in Defence.  Alex Dunn, Jack Holmes, Cory Simpson, Oli Woodley and Harry Nolan all battled hard in midfield and held off the desperate Pinns until the remaining seven minutes.  Pinns pressure brought them a well deserved goal and two minutes later they headed in their third from a corner.  Time ran out for the home team and the Wasps celebrated their well earned 4-3 victory.  At the end of the day, the home team arguably deserved a share of the points and both teams thoroughly entertained a well turned out crowd. MOTM Honours – Shared between Harry Nolan and Alex Dunn Scorers -  Harry Nolan, James Randall, Alex Dunn, Jack Holmes. Squad – John Buckland, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 6 v 0 West Exe Rangers

Saturday, 19 January 2008

HATRICK FOR HARVEY The first half lacked the usual fizz ‘n’ sparkle from the home team, despite dominating the play.  The visiting West Exe Rangers played with eight or nine players behind the ball and held off the siege until the 25th minute when Alex Dunn netted for the Wasps. The half ended 1-0. After the restart Richard Harvey netted twice in as many minutes.  The sticky, heavy conditions continued to  take the cutting edge play from the Wasps but the home team slogged on winning most of the play.  To combat the continuous sorties the visitors chose to play a high line defence, almost halfway.  West Hill adjusted their tactics to ‘route one, over the top’, and ‘without the pace to defend the space,’ the visitors conceded a further three goals in the final minutes. MOTM Honours – Richard Harvey Scorers -  Alex Dunn , Richard Harvey 3, Jack Holmes and James Randall Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, , Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 2 v 0 Stoke Hill

Saturday, 5 January 2008

GOOD TEAM PERFORMANCE West Hill were down to the bare bones with injuries, illness and unavailable players.  Nevertheless the team gave a great performance and played some exceptional football.  In the first half the Wasps had two disallowed goals, hit the upright and brought the best out of Stoke Hills giant keeper.  The visitors gave a good defensive performance but never looked like scoring.  The quality football continued in the second half and Oliver Woodley squeezed the ball past the big fella in the opening minutes going 1 - 0 up.  The visitors where more adventurous in the second half and counter attacked with some decent football but were unable to penetrate the home team defensive trio.  Alex Dunn had an exceptional game as centre half for the day replacing the injured Leo Jones.  Jack Holmes bossed the mid-field and made several attacking sorties showing his excellent skill and close ball control.  James Randall sealed the game in the final minutes cutting a swathe through the otherwise pretty solid Stoke defence with his pace and ability. West Hill deserved their 2 – 0 win and might just feel they deserved more especially in the first half. MOTM Honours – shared between Alex Dunn & Jack Holmes Scorers -  Oliver Woodley, James Randall Squad – John Buckland, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Jason Pope, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 18 v 0 Broadclyst Sports Club

Saturday, 15 December 2007

CHRISTMAS BONANZA Christmas came early for the home side and Santa delivered shooting boots all round.  No less than eight of the swarming Wasps scored as the beleaguered Broadclyst were put to the sword.  James Randall topped the tree with 5 goals, Harry Nolan added a further 4 shining balls, Richard Harvey pulled a rabbit out of the hat and Cory Simpson bagged a brace.  Alex Dunn, Luke Iddon, Oliver Woodley and goal keeper John Buckland all added tinsel with a goal a piece.  Leo Jones and skipper Mark Woolley powered the sleigh, Chris Williams,  Calum McConnachie and Sam Carden distributed the presents. On the day the visiting Broadclyst did well to keep their heads up and were a credit to their manager but doubtless another fixture against West Hill will not be high on their Christmas list Scorers - James Randall 5, Harry Nolan 4, Richard Harvey 3, Cory Simpson 2, Alex Dunn, Luke Iddon, Oliver Woodley and John Buckland Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 4 v 3 Twyford Spartans (Cup Match)

Saturday, 1 December 2007

LEAGUE 1 SCALP FOR UNDER DOG WASPS IN CUP THRILLER The West Hill underdogs turned into ‘hungry dogs’ with a great display of grit and passion in this nail biting and well contested cup tie.  Twyford drew first blood in the 15th minute and Richard Harvey equalised for the Wasps in the 31st minute.  Neither team dominated the half but clearly the home team created the better scoring opportunities but were unable to finish.  The half ended 1-1. The Wasps came out for the second half and gave their best performance of the season to date. MOTM Jack Holmes and Alex Dunn battled relentlessly in midfield, Capt. Mark Woolley, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie and Sam Carden all gave excellent performances in defence remaining focused under constant pressure.  Harry Nolan, Luke Iddon and Richard Harvey provided constant service for James Randall and Jason Pope up front. 10 minutes into the second half Harry Nolan out paced his marker and slotted the ball near post taking the score to 2-1.  Minutes later the visitors equalised with an excellent counter attack.  The Wasps dug deep and raised their game a couple of notches higher.  Striker Jason Pope showed his quality, strength and eye for goal after being unceremoniously dumped with a crunching tackle on the edge of the box, Jason stood up and drilled the ball into the top of the net.  The pace of the game quickened to frenzy mode for the final minutes and for the second time Twyford equalised.  With a minute remaining Jack Holmes latched on to the ball in his own half making  a steaming wide left run, ghosting past two defenders hitting a pile-driver into the roof of the net sealing the tie. The under dog Wasps thoroughly deserved their League 1 scalp and will reflect on their passion, hard work and endeavour. MOTM honours go to Jack Holmes Scorers:  Richard Harvey, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope and Jack Holmes  Squad -  John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, James Randall, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 9 v 3 Central Red Star

Saturday, 24 November 2007

GOAL FEST Despite the score Central started brightest, scoring twice in 8 minutes, the home team defence caught flat and ball watching.  The Wasps struggled to find any kind of composure until Sam Carden opened up their account in the 22nd minute.  Alex Dunns introduction approaching half time steadied the ship and West Hill began to play some football.  Jack Homes scored a 20yd unstoppable half volley and James Randall netted his first, ending the half 3-2. Yet another defensive error allowed Central to come back to 3-3 less than a minute into the second half.  The Wasps replied seconds later with Alex Dunns surging midfield run and cool finish to boot.  The home team now in control began to press the game and force errors.  Richard Harvey scored from a free kick and at 5-3 MOTM James Randall tore apart the visitors beleaguered  defence with a deft display of pace and close ball control scoring 3 times in 10 minutes.  Strike partner Oliver Woodley ended the goal rout minutes before the final whistle. The Wasps deserved their win albeit with a very slow, nervous and disjointed start.  Keeper John Buckland made some outstanding saves. Man of the match honours go to James Randall Scorers - James Randall 4, Sam Carden. Jack Holmes Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Oliver Woodley. Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 3 v 5 Alphington Wolves

Saturday, 10 November 2007

SHOW DOWN AT THE CAMP The game lived up to expectations as second place verses first place battled it out in a well contested game with neither teams losing to date.  The early minutes saw end to end action with both teams missing scoring opportunities.  Ten minutes on the game settled and the home team with the wind in their favour nudged their way forward confining most of the play to the Alphington half.  The Wasps enjoyed a good spell of possession and engineered several scoring opportunities but the finishing had neither accuracy or power and the chance to take the lead slipped by.  In the 22nd minute the visitors scored with a well executed counter attack arguably against the run of play.  The Wasps reasserted themselves, stepped up their game and after a good passage of play Jason Pope out paced his marker and slotted home the equaliser ending the half  1-1. The visiting Alphas came out for the second half with all guns blazing, taking full advantage of the strengthening wind and scoring in the 3rd minute.  The Wasps now on the back foot soaking up the pressure conceded two consecutive corners.  The first ball whipped in at pace swirling in the gusting wind deceived keeper John Buckland, the punched ball came off the underside of the crossbar in to the net.  The second ball also whipped in at pace came wind assisted and curled into the roof of the net giving the keeper no chance.  At 4-1 down with the wind against them the home team spent what seemed like an eternity on the back foot picking up the pieces and were unable to contain a further sortie from the marauding Alphas conceded yet a fifth goal in the 50th minute.  The goal came as a wake up call motivating the Wasps into a fight back.  With a huge concerted effort against the wind and the odds, West Hill put together a gritty 10 minute finale, with Richard Harvey scoring in the 65th minute and Pope getting his second of the day in the 70th minute.  The game ended 5-3 to the visiting Alphas who deserved the points on the day albeit having the ‘rub of the green’ (‘Or should we say wind’)

West Hill Wasps 4 v 4 Pinhoe Spitfires

 Saturday, 3 November 2007

WASPS CONCEDE FOUR AS PINS BOUNCE BACK With the challenge for the title hotting up, after losing 6-4 to Alphington the visiting Pins came determined to get something from the game.  The first half was a tightly fought contest with end to end action, Oliver Woodley and James Randall scoring for the home team but clearly the Pins had their chances.  The Wasps came out for the second half in fighting mode winning the lions share of possession and having their best spell of the game.  Alex Dunn scored in the 49th minute and Randall got his second of the day minutes later.  At 4-0 up the Wasps slipped into complacent mode and allowed the visitors to get a goal back.  The goal was a catalyst for the Pins and two minutes later they scored again.  Now clearly in the ascendancy with the bit between their teeth and another two minutes on Pinhoe scored again.  With West Hill still in shock mode and gasping for air the visitors hit their fourth goal to seal the draw and an amazing come back.  Towards the end of the game West Hill had their chances to get the game back on track.  Jack Holmes ghosted past two defenders in the box but skied his shot and Harry Nolan broke from the halfway line to find himself 1v1 with the keeper but failed to get the ball around the keepers leg. On the day the visiting Pins well deserved their point for a breath taking come back.  The Wasps will reflect on their complacency and inability to kill the game.  The pressure is now on West Hill to win their forthcoming fixture with Alphington or lose their title chances and maybe even promotion if Pinhoe have anything to do with it. Man of the match honours shared between Luke Iddon and John Buckland Scorers -  James Randall 2, Oliver Woodley and Alex Dunn Squad – John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Exe Rangers 2 v 10 West Hill Wasps

Saturday, 27 October 2007

WASPS HIT DOUBLE FIGURES Oliver Woodley and Calum McConnachie both hit hatricks, Jack Holmes bagged a brace and James Randall and Harry Nolan scored to give the Wasps their sixth league victory in as many games.  The Wasps had a comfortable first half but conceded a free kick seconds before the half time whistle.  The home team found the top corner of the net giving stand in keeper Luke Iddon no chance.  In the early minutes of the second half man of the match Jack Holmes netted twice showing his pace, strength and determination.  Minutes later the home team scored again from yet another free kick, the second attempt was every bit as good a goal as the first – keeper no chance.  Mark Woolley, Leo Jones, Barney Cooper and Chris Williams all played well in defence and Alex Dunn, Cory Simpson and Richard Harvey bossed the midfield.  On the day the Wasps were always in command, played well within their comfort zone and deserved the double figure win. MOTM honours go to Jack Holmes Scorers:  McConnachie 3, Woodley 3, Holmes 2, Nolan, Randall  Squad – Barney Cooper, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 3 v 2 St Martins (Cup Match)

Saturday, 20 October 2007

WASPS TRIUMPHANT IN CUP THRILLER West Hill came from two goals down in a nail biting Juventus league cup tie.  From the kick off St Martins took the initiative winning most of the play, first to the loose ball and attacking in numbers.  The Saints pressure won them a corner in the 15th minute.  The initial ball was cleared only to be driven in from the edge of the box.  West Hill had their moments with several counter attacks, each time pushing too many players forward leaving them exposed at the back.  Time after time the Saints obliged with the ‘ball over the top’ for their pacy forwards to run on to out numbering the West Hill defence.  Keeper John Buckland anticipated well sweeping up most of the balls from ‘over the top’ but in the 25th minute he misjudged his connection, driving the ball to the Saints forward.  From 35yds the striker returned the ball with his first touch lobbing the keeper with exceptional technique for a great goal.  Shook and disgruntled the Wasps battled well in the dying minutes of the half.  The late burst of pressure won the Wasps a free kick.  Richard Harveys well placed kick beat the keeper but not the defender who headed clear, unfortunately for him on to the foot of Jason Pope who drove home the first for the Wasps.  The half ended 2-1 to the visitors Inspired by the late first half goal the Wasps came out all guns blazing for the second half and gave a real passionate performance playing some outstanding football.  Ten minutes into the half Harry Nolan won possession from a challenge, set up the ball with his first touch and with the sweetest strike curled the ball into the top corner of the net for a 2-2 equaliser.  The Wasps were now well and truly in the ascendancy and beginning to dominate the play.  The attacks came in waves from left right and centre.  In the 50th minute MOTM Richard Harvey drilled an accurate shot from wide left, the keeper parried and Harvey was on hand for the  tap in and goal number 3 to seal the tie.  In the dying minutes the Saints had chance to equalise with a one on one attack against Wasps keeper John Buckland.  Buckland closed down the angle and came away with ball in hand, typical of the excellent performance he had given the whole game. To coin a phrase the game certainly was a game of two halves, but overall West Hill deserved their victory and showed they have the ability to dig in and fight back.  The 3-2 score line was a fair result MOTM honours go to Richard Harvey Scorers:  Jason Pope, Harry Nolan  and  Richard Harvey.  Squad -  John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, James Randall, Chris Williams, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill Wasps 3 v 0 Ottery St. Mary (friendly)

Saturday, 13 October 2007

CONFIDENT PERFORMANCE FOR WASPS IN LOCAL DERBY Both teams were in need of some quality opposition, the Otters and the Wasps both topping their respective leagues on maximum points.  With both teams less than a mile apart, West Hill invited the Otters to a friendly and with competitive rivalry running high the Otters where unable to refuse. West Hill started in positive mood winning most of the play and Jason Pope opened the Wasps account in the 4th minute.  The home team continued to press the ball creating a hatful of chances but were unable to increase the score before half time.  Both teams made changes for the second half but play continued in favour of the Wasps.  The Otters created several counter attacks but came up against the in form Mark Woolley, Leo Jones, Sam Carden and Luke Iddon.  The defensive quartet  gave a masterful rock solid performance.  Jack Homes and Alex Dunn gave excellent performances in the middle of the park while Richard Harvey and Harry Nolan kept a steady supply from the wings.  Keeper John Buckland remained focused and alert throughout the game and Oli Woodley came close to scoring several times.  Jason Pope scored his second of the day in the 57th minute and man of the match Alex Dunn sealed the game in the final minutes with a solo run showing his pace strength and determination. On the day the score was a fair reflection of the game and both teams will reflect on missed chances MOTM honours go to Alex Dunn Scorers – Jason Pope 2, Alex Dunn 1 Squad -  John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, Jason Pope, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

Stoke Hill 2 v 3 West Hill Wasps

Saturday, 6 October 2007

COMPETITIVE GAME With four easy games to date the visiting Wasps were almost undone by a well organised Stoke Hill.  After a frantic start to the game Alex Dunn scored a much needed early goal for the visitors.  The goal settled the play and the Wasps started to pass the ball with a little more composure.  The home team however where not to be outdone and competed tooth and nail until the half time whistle. Stoke Hill came out for the second half pushing hard for a goal testing the West Hill defence.  In response captain Mark Woolley marshalled his defence and gave a fine performance leading by example.  As the game opened up striker James Randall caught one over the top and calmly rounded the keeper putting the visitors 2 – 0 up.  The home team replied committing numbers in attack, Woolley was on hand stretching to close down and in the challenge took a blow to the crown jewels.  For a split second his team mates hesitated expecting the ref to blow, the home team striker seized the opportunity and scored a well executed lob giving keeper John Buckland no chance.  The Wasps responded with some gritty midfield play, Harry Nolan made a charging run wide right and slotted a pinpoint ball to the waiting Randall who calmly dispatched what would be the winning goal. Now in ascendancy and having their best spell of the game but by mo means dominating, the stinging Wasps turned kamikaze with a blunder at the back.  Central defence where caught in possession and well and truly ball mugged.  Three green and white shirts attacked the Wasps keeper, the outcome inevitable. On the day the 3 – 2 score line was a fair reflection of the game.  The Wasps will reflect on simple tasks like clearing their lines. Joint MOTM honours go to James Randall and Mark Woolley. Scorers – James Randall 2, Alex Dunn Squad -  John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack Holmes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Chris Williams, Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley Report by Trevor Nolan

Broadclyst Sports' Club 0 v 8 West Hill Wasps

Saturday, 29 September 2007

GOALS GALORE The triumphant Wasps chalked up another 3 points in an 8 goal frenzy against the home team Broadclyst.  West Hill now have 12 points and 24 goals from 4 games conceding only one goal.  Broadclyst were put to the sword and totally dismantled in a very one sided game.  Alex Dunn opened the Wasps account in the first minute, Oliver Woodley scored a hatrick and Richard Harvey bagged a brace and scored the goal of the season to date with a deft wonder volley.  James Randall and Sam Carden rounded up the 8-0 score line. The game itself lacked a competitive edge and for the most time saw the visitor’s queuing up to see who could score the most goals.  The West Hill team crave stronger opposition. SCORERS :  Richard Harvey 2, Oliver Woodley 3, Alex Dunn 1, James Randall 1, Sam Carden 1. Squad: John Buckland, Sam Carden, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack homes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley. Report by Trevor Nolan

Sidmouth Town Jnr Vikings 0 v 7 West Hill

Saturday, 22 September 2007

SID STUNG BY WASPS From the kick off the visitors played the better football, winning most of the play and passing the ball with confidence.  Sid struggled to break from their own half and were forced to make errors by the marauding visitors.  Richard Harvey was first on the score sheet in the 8th minute followed by Oliver Woodley in the15th.  Harvey scored again in the 22nd minute and Alex Dunn made it 4-0 before the half time whistle.  Sid came out for the second half looking to make amends, testing the Wasps defence, only to find skipper Mark Woolley and Leo Jones rock solid in central defence.  After the home teams best spell the visitors re-asserted themselves and Cory Simpson, Jack Holmes and Calum McConnachie fired in 3 more goals.  Luke Iddon gave an impressive performance in goal standing in for the Wasps injured keeper and MOTM Jack Holmes worked his sock off and scored a great goal to boot.  The visiting Wasps thoroughly deserved their 7-0 win and battled hard to keep a clean sheet. MOTM honours:  Jack Holmes SCORERS :  Richard Harvey 2, Oliver Woodley 1, Alex Dunn 1, Cory Simpson 1, Jack Holmes 1, Calum McConnachie 1. Squad: Sam Carden, Barney Cooper, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack homes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum McConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley. Report by Trevor Nolan

West Hill 3 v 1 Beacon Knights

Saturday, 15 September 2007

HATRICK FOR RANDALL  The game commenced with high tempo as both teams contested the ball evenly.  After the initial end to end frenzy the pace slowed and the home team began to dominate.  Alex Dunn and Jack Homes worked the midfield well, winning possession and supplying the flanks.  James Randall and Harry Nolan combined well with numerous sorties from the right and Richard Harvey maintained a steady supply of crosses from the left.  The excellent approach play paid dividends and the shots rained in from all angles, but the Knights keeper was in form making countless saves keeping the score line equal until half time.  The threat from the visitors came mainly on the break with the frustrated Wasps pushing to many players forward.  Top draw defending from the tenacious Leo Jones and gut busting recovery runs from the athletic Mark Woolley snuffed out most of the visitors breaks. The second half mirrored the first, the wasps pilled on the pressure and eventually Randall unpicked the knights defence ghosting past two defenders to slot home goal No 1 in the 38th minute.  Goals 2 and 3 followed within 10 mins to complete Randall’s hatrick.  In the dying minutes the visitors countered, a defensive blip saw the wasps fail to clear their lines and the visitors scored a well deserved consolation goal. On the day the Wasps deserved their victory but they will reflect on a hatful of chances missed in the first half.  MOTM honours shared between James Randall and Mark Woolley Squad: John Buckland, Barney Cooper, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack homes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Calum MacConnachie, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley. Report by Trevor Nolan

Central Red Star 0 v 6 West Hill

Saturday, 8 September 2007

HALF’A’DOZEN FOR THE WASPS IN JUVENTUS DEBUT  The visitors enjoyed their Juventus debut despite the searing heat and poor quality pitch.  Central were simply outplayed by the re-vamped Wasps.  The home team battled hard in the first quarter and managed to hold the visitors despite the pressure.  New boy Luke Iddon opened the score in the 11th minute followed by Jack Holmes in the 13th.  Iddon turned provider to set up Harry Nolan for goal No 3 in the 23rd and claimed his second of the game in the 25th minute.  Striker James Randall gave the Central defence a torrid time and bagged a brace of goals one either side of the half time whistle. The second half was a much more sombre affair, as the game now well and truly won by the visitors, eased in the midday sun.  Mark Woolley and Leo Jones both had excellent games in defence and Alex Dunn dominated the midfield.  On the day the Wasps deserved their 6-0 win. Squad: John Buckland, Barney Cooper, Alex Dunn, Richard Harvey, Jack homes, Luke Iddon, Leo Jones, Harry Nolan, James Randall, Cory Simpson, Chris Williams Oliver Woodley, Mark Woolley. Scorers: Iddon 2, Randall 2,  Holmes 1, Nolan 1. Report by Trevor Nolan