20th April 2008

Hornets v Calverley Utd (L1-2)

The Hornets suffered their first defeat of 2008 when they went down 2-1 away to Calverley. The home team started the strongest and forced Spurs back deep in to their half. Mawson and Wainwright were kept busy as the strong Calverley team piled on the pressure; Spurs seemed only to clear their lines before the ball came straight back.

Spurs weathered this early storm and before long got to grips with the game – forging forward through their midfield in to the Calverley half. The game swung from side to side but it was Calverley that created the better chances. One such chance, a shot from wide right, was parried by Hattersley in the Spurs goal but the ball fell to a Calverley player who slotted home from 2 yards. The Hornets rallied but again were pushed back; Calverley forcing several corners which were dealt with superbly by the Spurs defence. Minutes after going down a goal, the Hornets managed to get themselves back on level terms; a free-kick from 20 yards lofted in to the corner from Ferguson : game on! Moments later, Calverley almost went back in to the lead but Hattersley produced a stunning save to tip the ball around the post – the teams going in at half-time level.

The second half was a fierce battle with both sets of players giving it their all. Tackles were flying in but the football remained excellent. Both sides produced chances – Smith, Wood and Cantrell all trying their hardest to force in a goal. Unfortunately for Spurs it was Calverley who took the lead – a hopeful shot that looked comfortable for the Spurs keeper took an evil bounce in front of Hattersley and nestled in to the back of the net.

Spurs rallied during the remaining minutes but the Calverley keeper produced an excellent save from a Ferguson rocket – which helped keep the score at 2-1 to Calverley.

Wasps v Calverley (D 0-0)

Straight from kick off the Wasps pushed forward and put Calverley's defence under pressure. White hit a thumping shot against the post following good build up play; and Sheard hit a shot just over the bar following a good run up the wing . At times the game was scrappy with every player battling hard for each other. Man-of-the-match Pennock and defensive partner Bedford both had another solid game leaving goal keeper, Robinson, a spectator for most of the half. Langdale and Fisher operating on either wing pushed forward to try and break through Calverley's defence, only to be denied by a last ditched tackle or inaccurate finishing. Substitute Hainsworth replaced an exhausted Fisher, but as hard he tried he also found it difficult to find a way through their defence.

Half time arrived with the game even at 0-0.

The half time team talk was to encourage the players to pass and let the ball do more work. The second half kicked off and initial signs were encouraging with the Wasps' players exchanging passes as they pushed forward with flowing football. Unfortunately, as in the first half, the finishing shot or pass let them down without really testing their keeper. The Wasps were awarded a free kick a few yards outside the penalty area. Pennock took the free kick hitting a stunning shot that had the keeper beaten; and as the Wasps' spectators were getting ready to celebrate, some how, a Calverley defender managed to clear the ball off the line and away to safety. The Wasps made their final substitution replacing White with Hughes, but as Hughes battled hard he also found a solid Calverley defence difficult to break down.

In the closing stages Calverley should have scored to snatch a late winner. Their striker avoided several tackles and broke through the Wasps' defence with only Robinson to beat. Thankfully though due to a combination of Robinson charging off his line and defenders getting back, the Calverley striker was put off balance and his shot went the wrong side of the post (for Calverley).

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6th April 2008

Hornets v Middleton Park (W 5-0)

The Hornets gave an indifferent performance today against Middleton Park but still came away with a victory. On a large pitch, Spurs took control of the game immediately from the kick-off – Cantrell and Wood putting pressure on the Middleton keeper as he made several good saves to keep the Hornets at bay. It took until the eighth minute for Hornets to grab a goal – a through ball from Ferguson was latched on to by Wood who ran in and slammed the ball in to the corner. The Hornets now pressed relentlessly and forced corners in quick succession. Smith drifted the ball over and Wood unfortunately connected too well with his head and the ball went over the ball. It wasn't long though until the Hornets got their second goal; Ferguson this time sliding in to convert a corner from Smith. Minutes later, Wood got his second goal when another super corner eluded the Middleton keeper and Wood stole in to slot the ball home.

With Spurs now in control, the defence pushed forward to support the midfield and forwards. Mawson came close as he fired in a long shot and the same player also produced a 40 yard run and cross – but the pass couldn't be converted. Johnson and Wainwright came off the bench to inject a different dimension to the team as the Hornets pushed for more goals. Middleton continued to play but every-time they broke away, Hobbs , Wainwright and Mawson cancelled out attacks before they got within striking distance of Hattersley's goal.

In the second half it was more of the same; the Hornets controlling the game but failing to capitalise on their dominance. Cantrell, who worked tirelessly upfront and on the wing finally got a goal; slamming in a right foot shot after being fed by Man of the Match Johnson.

Spurs could have grabbed more goals but poor finishing coupled with some fine saves and super defending by Middleton limited the Hornets to just one further goal – Johnson finishing off a great move with a well struck shot. Final score ended at 5-0 to the Hornets.

Wasps v Middleton Park (W 10-0)

The Wasps stormed to a fantastic victory, coupled with an excellent all round team performance, which warmed the spirits of the travelling support on a bitterly cold day.

From kick off, the Wasps took control and pegged Middleton back into their own half for virtually most of the game. After only one minute a strike from White opened the scoring following good work by Langdale on the right. Two minutes later the Wasps doubled their lead and White got his second with a thumping shot. On six minutes Pennock got on the score sheet following good work and movement by Bedford, White and Langdale. On thirteen minutes Man of the Match Ellis, playing in central midfield, got his first of the game. Ellis picked up the ball in midfield and his pass found Fisher, who beat off several Middleton tackles as he charged forward up the left wing; Fisher crossed the ball in to the area and Ellis made no mistake tapping in from close range. One minute later Mitchell deservedly got himself on the score sheet, tapping in from close range from Fisher's cross.

As well as the goals, the Wasps enjoyed some excellent passing movements and build up play as they mounted attack after attack on the Middleton goal. The Wasp ended the first half with a well deserved 5-0l lead.

The second half started as the first half had ended with the Wasps in total control. As in the first half, the Wasps enjoyed some excellent passing movements and build up play as they mounted attack after attack on the Middleton goal. and it only took three minutes for the Wasps to get their sixth. Good build up play by Bedford, Ellis and Mitchell who supplied the cross for Langdale to tap in from close range for his first of the game. One minute later Hainsworth was unlucky not to score when his thumping shot went just wide; but he made no mistake on six minutes slotting the ball home from close range, following a good run down the right wing by Mitchell. One minute later Ellis got his second and the Wasps eighth, following a good interchange of passes between Bedford and Langdale. Next Langdale got his second and the team's ninth, then to cap off a fine all round team performance, keeper Robinson came out of goal and was replaced by Hughes, who had put in another solid display in defence. Robinson was given a free range of the pitch and caused Middleton no end of problems; and for his reward on fourteen minutes, his low shot beat the keeper's desperately dive for the Wasps tenth goal.

The final score was an impressive 10-0 victory for the Wasps.

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30th March 2008

Hornets v Calverley Utd (Won 4-1)

Gildersome Spurs Hornets returned from their Easter break and produced a strong display against Calverley Utd. The Hornets got off to a flying start; finding themselves 1 – 0 up after 45 seconds – a long throw-in from Ferguson was turned across the goal by Cantrell and side-footed home by Johnson with his first kick of the game. The game then swung from end to end but Wainwright and Mawson in the Spurs defence were very strong and kept the attackers at bay.

Wood had a super game in midfield and was unlucky when his ferocious shot went inches over the bar. Cantrell held the ball well upfront and provided some excellent inter-play with Johnson and Wood; Johnson coming close to grabbing his second but denied by a good save from the Calverley keeper. At times the match got very physical but credit to both sets of players; it was all good clean hard tackling. With five minutes remaining in the first half, the Hornets grabbed a second when a one-two with Cantrell and Ferguson was coolly finished off with a sweet left foot strike from Ferguson. The score remained at 2 – 0 as the teams went into half- time.

The second half started as the first – the Hornets scoring within a minute of the kick-off. Cantrell found Ferguson and the Spurs' captain and Man of the Match collected his second goal and Spurs third with another left foot strike – that found it's way into the corner.

Calverley continued to play some great football but were caught out when Spurs broke away. Mawson and Wainwright combined at the back – Wood and Johnson combined up front and Cantrell finished the move off with a clinical finish. Calverley battled on and put Hattersley under pressure in the Spurs goal – they eventually pulled a goal back with a neat finish from their striker.

Both teams went for more goals but the game finally ended at 4 – 1 to Spurs.

Wasps v Calverley Utd (Won 2-1)

The Wasps played their first game in three weeks against a good Calverley team, which turned out to be a game of two halves. From the start the Wasps were the stronger of the two teams and had several opportunities to open the scoring. White was denied two goals by the post and cross bar; and Man of the Match Pennock, was denied a goal when his excellent shot from half way also hit the cross bar. The Wasps continued to mount more pressure on Calverley's goal with good work from Hainsworth, Fisher and Langdale. Pennock was again unlucky not to score when his strike hit the cross bar from Fisher's corner. The Wasps were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty area due to a foul on Langdale; and from the free kick, Pennock hit a thumping shot only to be denied a goal by the keeper, who made an excellent save tipping the ball over the bar.

The Wasps did break the deadlock on 14 minutes following a mass scramble in the penalty area and as Calverley desperately tried to clear, somehow the ball was hit home by Fisher through a crowd of players to open the scoring. Only a minute later the Wasps deservedly made it two nil. White wriggled down the goal line and hit the ball across the goal. It took a wicked deflection from a Calverley player and ball nestled in to the net. Calverley continued to battle well and they could have pulled one goal back; however, the ever reliable Robinson, made an excellent save which helped maintain the Wasps 2-0 advantage.

In the second half Calverley made some changes and immediately put the Wasps under pressure. Within one minute Calverley were back in the game when they broke through Wasps' defence and their player hit a low shot in to the bottom corner, leaving Robinson with no chance. From kick off the Wasps lost possession and Calverley pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Credit to the Wasps they desperately battled hard to protect their lead with good defending from Bedford and Pennock, coupled with brave goal keeping by Robinson. At times it was nail biting as Calverley continued to mount more pressure, with the Wasps struggling to get out of their own half. In the end they did manage to weather the storm and on the counter attack, they had three or four opportunities to increase their lead. White was denied his second by an excellent tackle from the Calverley defender, as he raced through on goal. Mitchell hit a thumping shot from the right that went inches over the bar; and Fisher hit a low shot wide following his good run up the left wing.

In the final minute Calverley did have a couple of opportunities to equalise, but credit to every Wasps player, they all battled hard, although desperately at times, and hung on to the final whistle to gain three more valuable points.

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9th March 2008

Hornets v Shadwell Utd (W 1-0)

The Hornets faced a tough test against an excellent Shadwell team and so it proved to be the game of the season. Both teams played some excellent football but it was Shadwell who nudged the first half and was only denied a goal by some fantastic goal keeping by Hattersley in the Spurs goal and also by some super defending by Hobbs and Mawson.

Shadwell denied Spurs the chance to get in to their rhythm; closing down the spaces and putting in some great tackles. Hattersley produced several fine saves in the course of the first half; one in particular as he dived to his left and pushed the ball around the post. Shadwell continued to press but a first class performance from Mawson kept them at bay. As the half wore on, the Hornets midfield started to create chances of their own; Wood and Cantrell shooting straight at the keeper when well placed.

The second half proved a different story. Ferguson rallied his team and Wood, Smith and Cantrell started to get more possession and the chances started to come. The Shadwell defence stood firm and blocked everything that was thrown at them. A short corner from Cantrell found Ferguson who cut in and unleashed a shot destined for the top corner – but a stunning save from the Shadwell keeper denied the Hornets the opening goal.

Moments later the deadlock was broken. A corner cleared by the Shadwell defence came out to Hobbs who, from just inside the Shadwell half, unleashed a ferocious shot that rocketed in to the roof of the net. This was Hobbs first goal of the season and he was completely mobbed by his own team. The game continued to go from one box to the other but the defences remained on top. In the last minute, Shadwell created a chance as their striker hit a low shot towards the bottom corner; Man of the Match Hattersley flung himself to the right and palmed the ball away – a stunning finale to a superb game played by two excellent teams. Hornets managed to hold on to the slender lead and claim all three points.

Wasps v Shadwell Utd (W 3-1)

The Wasps were up against a strong Shadwell team who were looking to close the gap in the league table. With the sun shining and a light breeze the conditions were perfect for the teams to play football and entertain the supporters. From the kick off both teams battled hard as the game flowed from end to end. Unfortunately though, it was Shadwell who opened the scoring on six minutes. A long throw caused confusion in the penalty area and as the Wasps tried to clear, the ball fell to a Shadwell player who hit a thumping shot that was defected into the goal off Bedford , as he desperately tried to clear off the line.

Credit to the players they didn't let their heads drop and they battled hard to get themselves back in to the game; and on ten minutes, they were rewarded with the equalising goal. Sheard received the ball from White and as he ran in to the area, he released a thumping shot in to the corner of the goal, leaving their keeper with no chance of saving. White, Mitchell, Langdale and Fisher all worked tirelessly as the Wasps continued to battle hard and push forward; and with another solid performance in midfield by Sheard, the Wasps always looked capable of scoring more goals. Both teams continued to push forward but credit must be given to the keepers, who both made some excellent saves to keep the scores even at half time.

The second half was similar to the first with very little between the two teams, and every player worked hard for each other. Mid-way through the second half though, the Wasps started to take a grip of the game. The Wasps won a series of corners and from one of these corners they deservedly grabbed their second goal on 14 minutes. An in swinging corner looped over the Shadwell defence to find Langdale unmarked, and he made no mistake in hitting the ball in to the goal from close range.

In reply Shadwell pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but with some strong defending from Sheard, Pennock and Hughes, and some excellent saves from man of the match, Robinson, Shadwell were unable to break through. Robinson, with his fearless attitude made two or three point blank saves in this half, which deservedly drew a round of applause from both sets of supports and coaches. Thankfully though, the Wasps weathered the storm and on 18 minutes they grabbed their third goal. From a scramble in the penalty area the ball came out to Fisher; he turned and unleashed a curling left foot shot through a crowd of players into the top corner of the goal. You could feel the sense of relief when the third goal went in to secure three more points, as this was a game that every player deserved credit and praise for the way they battled as a team.

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2nd March 2008

Hornets 3 Wortley Juniors 0

The Hornets continued their fine run of form when they beat Wortley Juniors 3-0 away from home. In gale force winds, both teams struggled to find their touch as the weather threatened to get the better of them. Both teams were looking for goals; Wood and Cantrell came very close but failed to hit the target. At the other end, Hattersley was kept busy and needed to be strong when a couple of shots rained in.

The Hornets finally broke the deadlock on the twelfth minute when their captain, Ferguson shot from distance and the ball found the net courtesy of a dodgy bounce in front of the keeper. This settled the nerves somewhat but the chances for Smith, Wood and Cantrell couldn't add to the lead. Wortley pressed for a goal as well and had several chances of their own; the closest following a corner but the striker hit the ball over the bar.

In the second half, playing with the wind, the Hornets played much better football and grabbed a second a few minutes in. Man of the Match Cantrell converting a long throw-in from Ferguson to take the score to 2-0. Mawson, Hobbs and Wainwright were now looking more assured in defence and it was Wainwright who started the play the brought about the third goal. Good control at the back and a long pass down to Wood set the Hornets winger away. A quick interchange in the box with Cantrell and Wood smashed the ball in to the roof of the net.

Chances came and went for both teams but the Hornets remained strong and won the game 3-0.

Wasps 3 Wortley Juniors 1

The Wasps were up against a strong Wortley team, but both teams also had to battle hard against the swirling wind, which made for difficult playing conditions. Earlier in the season the Wasps were well beaten by Wortley, so they were looking to make amends for the second time in two weeks and continue their winning run of form.

From the kick off both teams tried hard to control the ball and push forward. Man of the match, Sheard, took control of midfield and put in an excellent performance covering every blade of grass and making some good strong tackles. Both Hainsworth and Johnson battled well on the wings to push the Wasps forward in search of the opening goal and after only four minutes, the Wasps were rewarded. Pennock took the ball from defence up the left wing; his perfect pass found Johnson who hit a goal bound shot, only for White to knick the last touch and claim the goal.

The game was flowing from end to end and Wortley were unlucky not to equalise when a high ball into the area, was cleared off the line by Sheard with a spectacular overhead kick. With another good solid performance by keeper, Robinson, and defensive pair of Pennock and Hughes, Wortley were finding it difficult and were limited to only half chances. The Wasps continued to battle hard and push forward in search of that second goal and on 14 minutes, were rewarded for their hard work. From a well worked short corner, Sheard dribbled his way into the area avoiding several Wortley challengers; his pass found Fisher unmarked, and Fisher made no mistake to shoot the ball in to the goal, passed the helpless dive of the keeper.

The Wasps had now taking a firm grip of the game and their pressure resulted in them winning a number of corners in succession. Unfortunately though, they were unable to add to their two goals before half time.

In the second half the Wasps continued to mount more pressure on the Wortley goal. Both Fisher and Mitchell put in a good performance on the wings; White and Johnson who both alternated the striker position, could have increased the lead if it wasn't for fine goal keeping and the swirling wind.

Eventually though, on 12 minutes, the Wasps grabbed their third goal and Fisher's second. Sheard and Johnson linked up well with some good passing movement in midfield; Sheard then found Fisher on the left and he raced into the area leaving his marker standing. Fisher released a thumping shot that was initially well saved by the keeper, but he made no mistake with the rebound.

This was no more than the Wasps deserved as every player had worked tirelessly in difficult conditions. As legs started to tire the Wasps were limited to only half chances and were unable to add another goal. In the last minute of the game Wortley scored a consolation goal, as the tired Wasps' defence failed to stop a Wortley player, and he hit a thumping shot leaving Robinson with no chance of saving. The game ended with a hard fought but well deserved 3 -1 win.

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17th February 2008

Hornets v Farsley Celtic (W 6-4)

A thrilling, end to end game of football was played by two in-form sides. The match was even for the first 10 minutes with both teams coming close. Cantrell, Smith and Wood all forcing good saves from the Farsley keeper and Ferguson seeing one effort smash against the cross bar. At the other end, Mawson and Hobbs were kept busy as Farsley pressed forward at every opportunity. Hattersley, in the Spurs goal, made a string of good saves to keep the Farsley strikers out.

The break-through came mid-way through the half. A goal kick played to Ferguson in the centre of midfield, saw the Spurs' captain turn and play a peach of a through-ball between two Farsley defenders. Wood raced forward and coolly slotted past the keeper. Minutes later, the Hornets made it 2-0, centre forward Cantrell forcing the ball over the line with the help of his back following a corner from Smith. Moments before the half-time whistle, Farsley had a chance to pull a goal back but the striker missed with the goal begging.

Spurs started the strongest in the second half and raced to a 4-0 lead within five minutes of the re-start. Wood collected his second when unselfish play from Ferguson allowed Man of the Match Wood to crash the ball in to the roof of the net. Smith then nipped in with a clinical finish – beating the keeper at the near post.

The Hornets made a few changes which seemed to allow Farsley back in to it. In the space of five minutes they had pegged back the Spurs outfit to 4-3 and their tales were now up. The Hornets, not ones for letting a lead slip, dug deep and rolled their sleeves up. Wainwright found his tackling boots and sent away Wood at wide left. His pass found Ferguson who in turn found Smith. Cantrell then punished some weak defending as he slotted home Smiths pass. Smith then grabbed his second goal as he sprinted forward and unleashed a lovely shot that went across the keeper and in to the bottom corner.

With only minutes remaining, Farsley grabbed a fourth goal but the Hornets held out to win 6-4 in a thoroughly entertaining game.

Wasps v Farsley Celtic (W 3-1)

The Wasps were looking to make amends for their defeat at Farsley Celtic earlier in the season, and continue their amazing winning run of form. From the kick off the Wasps immediately won possession and put pressure on Farsley's defence. After only 15 seconds a perfect cross from Fisher found White unmarked in the area, and White made no mistake to open the scoring with a simple tap into the goal.

With confidence high the Wasps continued to battle hard against a solid Farsley team. The game flowed from end to end but with another solid performance by Langdale and Fisher on the wings and Sheard in midfield, the Wasps always looked dangerous going forward. The Farsley keeper was in fine form as he made some excellent saves, but he was probably at fault for the Wasps' second goal on 14 minutes. With a scramble in the area some how the keeper lost the ball, and as the Farsley defence tried to clear, the ball fell to Johnson, who had just come on as a substitute, and he smashed it through a crowd of players in to the goal.

Farsley didn't let their heads' drop and they started to take a grip of the game. Both Pennock and Bedford worked hard in defence and man of the match Robinson, made some excellent saves in goal. Unfortunately for the Wasps they couldn't hold out to the Farsley pressure, and on 18 minutes Farsley deservedly pulled one goal back. The Wasps went into the half time interval with a hard fought two goals to one lead.

The second half continued where the first half had left off with end to end football. Ellis who had come on as a first half substitute made some timely interceptions in midfield, and also delivered some good passes to push the Wasps forward. Both teams battled hard and both keepers made some excellent saves – one in particular from Robinson when he pounced on a loose ball on the goal line following a scramble in the penalty area; and one from the Farsley keeper, as he brilliantly tipped over a thumping free kick from Sheard that earned him a round of applause from everybody.

Although the play was from end to end it wasn't until the closing stages of the half that the Wasps started to put more pressure on Farsley's defence. On 20 minutes the Wasps were finally rewarded with another goal which secured the three points. An in-swinging corner from Fisher caused confusion in the Farsley defence; as the defender tried to clear he ended up knocking the ball past his own keeper into the goal.

The game ended with a hard fought but well deserved three goals to one victory to the Wasps, which extended their winning run to seven games. Credit must be given to both teams for making this an entertaining but nail biting game for both spectators and coaches.

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10th February 2008

Hornets v Bramley Phoenix (W 6-1)

The Hornets found themselves in a battle against a determined Bramley side. After the best possible start – a low cross from Smith, neatly converted by Wood in the first minute, the Hornets failed to capitalise on the early pressure. Bramley, attacking as a unit were stretching the Spurs midfield and had it not been for an excellent block and tackle from Hobbs , could have levelled it midway through the half. Cantrell, put through by Wood, failed to beat the Bramley keeper one-on-one however, moments later, from exactly the same position he coolly slotted home. Spurs pushed for more goals but found the keeper in excellent for; saving brilliantly from Wood, Smith, Ferguson and Cantrell. With only moments remaining in the first half, Bramley broke quickly and pulled a goal back; Quinn almost breaking the net as he gave Hattersley in the Spurs goal no chance.

The second half was another tight affair but this time Spurs showed no mercy in their finishing. Cantrell floated over a corner and Ferguson's diving header went in to the roof of the net. Wood grabbed the fourth with a tap in from close range, then claimed his hat-trick as he danced his way through the defence and slotted the ball passed the keeper.

Bramley continued to battle but were thwarted by some great defensive play from Wainwright, Hobbs and Mawson. Mawson moved in to midfield, slotting in nicely to the right hand side – coming close to scoring on two occasions. With only minutes remaining Ferguson scored his second when he collected the ball in midfield, beat two players and unleashed a lovely placed shot in to the corner.

Spurs finally winning 6-1.

Wasps v Bramley Phoenix (W 9-0)

The Wasps produced a super display on this fabulous Sunday morning fixture. Immediately from the kick-off Spurs went on the attack and put the Bramley keeper and defence under pressure.

Bramley held out brilliantly until the sixth minute when a low shot from Sheard found its way through a group of players and nestled in to the back of the net. One minute later, Fisher got on the end of a superb Langdale cross and somehow he managed to hit the crossbar from less than a yard out. The next 10 minutes were more even as spurs struggled to pass the ball to each other.

On 16 minutes, Man of the Match Langdale produced another great run and cross, which White tapped in. White grabbed his second and Spurs' third when converted a corner from Sheard – heading in to the far corner of the net. Just before the half-time whistle, Langdale grabbed his first goal following a powerful shot from Mitchell that the keeper could only parry in to Langdale's path to make it 4-0 to the Wasps. Hughes and Pennock marshalled the defence stopping any threats that Bramley fired on Spurs.

A glut of goals continued in the second half as Spurs began to push the ball around with growing confidence. The Wasps fifth goal came from a long clearance by Robinson in the Spurs goal – the ball bouncing over the Bramley defence for Langdale to run on to and score with a great shot. Johnson got on to the act moments later when his shot from distance wrong footed the keeper and nestled in to the back of the net. Langdale claimed his hat-trick when he pounced on a poor kick and lashed the ball passed the keeper.

Bramley switched their keeper who unfortunately got injured following a full length save. Spurs could afford the luxury to push players forward. Pennock, Hainsworth and Mitchell all came close but it was Fisher who finally grabbed a goal following good work from Langdale and White. Spurs ninth and final goal came from a short corner by Johnson; Sheard collecting the ball and cutting in before placing the ball in to the corner of the net. Bramley continued to battle to the very end but Spurs ran out 9-0 winners in this entertaining fixture.

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3rd February 2008

Hornets v Tingley Corinthians (W 11-0)

Despite early pressure from the away team, Spurs managed to get off to the perfect start when Cantrell produced a clinical finish from the edge of the box. This early set back did not dampen Tingley's spirit as they began to cause problems for the Spurs defence of Mawson and Hobbs . Unfortunately for Tingley, every time the Hornets broke up the Tingley attack, superb passing from the midfield trio or Wood, Ferguson and Smith resulted in the Tingley goal being peppered time after time. Cantrell reacted to rebound following a super save from the Tingley keeper; slotting in from close range. Shortly afterwards, Cantrell completed his hat-trick with a first time shot again from the edge of the box.

Smith got in the act when he converted a Ferguson cross. He then grabbed his second when the keeper again parried a shot in to his path; the midfielder tapping home from close range. Ferguson struck his first and Spurs' sixth when a cross/come shot from wide right drifted over the keeper's head. Cantrell completed the first half rout, again tapping in from close range again following a good save from the impressive Tingley keeper.

With the game already won, Spurs were able to try players in different positions. This did allow Tingley back in to the game and the second half was a much tighter match. Smith grabbed his hat-trick following a neat move starting with a good interception from Wainwright in defence. Wood and Ferguson combined and the cross from Cantrell was smashed home by Smith.

Tingley rallied for a period and forced Hattersley in the Spurs' goal in to two super saves; one was touched around the post and the other was a brave save at the striker's feet. The Hornets crated several chances; Hobbs going close with a header and Mawson narrowly missing the top corner with a power shot. They eventually gained their momentum and composure and once again knocked the ball around with confidence. Ferguson collected his second and Spurs nintth whilst Man of the Match Cantrell grabbed his fifth and sixth goals to complete the 11-0 victory.

Wasps v Tingley Corinthians (W 4-0)

The Wasps continued their winning run but they had to work hard against a stubborn Tingley side. Although the Wasps had the majority of possession, they found it initially hard to break Tingley down. Tingley did have their opportunities as well to open the scoring, but with Pennock and Bedford working hard in defence and the ever reliable Robinson in goal, The Wasps managed to smother any serious attacks.

The Wasps battled hard and spread the ball about with some good passing movements. Eventually their hard work was rewarded on 14 minutes with the opening goal. A familiar long throw from Sheard found Langdale unmarked in the area, and he coolly tapped the ball into the goal through a crowd of players.

The opening goal gave the Wasps a lift of confidence and they started to take greater control of the game. On 17 minutes the Wasps deservedly doubled their lead. Pennock broke from defence with a surging run up the left wing; as he made his way in to the penalty area he hit a thumping shot with his left foot from the tightest of angles, which beat the keeper at the near post. The half time interval came with a hard fought 2-0l lead to the Wasps.

In the second half the Wasps continued where they had left off in the first. Ellis who had come on as a first half substitute was working hard in midfield; and after only two minutes it was his perfect pass that found Johnson free in the penalty area. Johnson controlled the ball well and hit a terrific shot into the goal leaving the keeper with no chance of saving.

Credit to Tingley they didn't let their heads drop and continued to battle hard. The Wasps with Fisher and Langdale on either wing opened up the Tingley defence on a number of occasions, and on 10 minutes it was deservedly 4-0. A familiar run up the right wing by Langdale cut through the Tingley defence; his pin point pass found Man of the match, White, unmarked in the area and he smashed the ball in to the goal, passed the desperate dive of the keeper.

The Wasps had further opportunities to increase their lead, but credit must be given to the Tingley goalkeeper for making some terrific saves. On one occasion White was one on one with the keeper, but the keeper stood tall to make a terrific save to deny White his second goal.

The game ended with a hard fought but well deserved 4-0 victory to the Wasps.

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27th January 2008

Hornets v Leeds City A (W1-0)

The Hornets scraped through this fixture by the skin of their teeth and had their keeper Hattersley to thank as he pulled off a magnificent penalty save late in the 2nd half.

Spurs came out all guns blazing but failed to capitalise on the early pressure. Mawson, Wood and Cantrell all coming close. In the sixth minute, they finally got their reward; Mawson laying on a nice pass for Wood to slot home from the edge of the area with a clinical finish. As the Hornets pressed for a second , gaps appeared in midfield but Hobbs and Man of the Match Wainwright remained firm with some great tackles and some timely interceptions. In a scramble in the box, Hattersley got down and saved well at the feet of a Leeds City striker.

At the other end, Wood came close, hitting the bar with one shot following a mazy run. Moments later, Mawson crashed one against the foot of the post. Cantrell almost capitalised on a City goal keeping error but the keeper redeemed himself saving bravely at Cantrell's feet as he was about to pull the trigger.

The second half was a similar story; Spurs pushing with City trying to catch them on the break. Cantrell and Ferguson both rattled the woodwork and then the unthinkable – a breakaway from City resulted in a penalty as a Spurs player handled inside the area. Hattersley stood tall before springing in a cat like manner to finger tip the shot on to the post – the Hornets finally managing to clear the ball and avert the danger. Press as they might, City could not break down the Spurs defence and Hornets held on to a hard earned victory.

Wasps v Leeds City B (W3-0)

The Wasps were looking for their first double of the season and to make it three wins in a row. The toughest task they had to face was a strong swirling wind and an uneven playing surface. From the start Sheard took command of midfield and with Fisher on the left wing and man of the match Langdale on the right, the Wasps pushed forward in search of that opening goal. The Wasps' pressure and hard work was rewarded on six minutes when striker, Johnson, worked his way into the penalty area and his pass found Langdale, who smashed the ball into the goal passed the desperate dive of their goal keeper. With confidence high every player battled hard in the difficult conditions and when Leeds City did manage to push forward, Wasps' defenders of Pennock and Bedford worked solidly together to breakdown any attacks.

The Wasps were always in control of the game and on nine minutes, they were rewarded for their hard work with goal number two. Johnson received the ball on the left and he released a thumping shot with the outside of his boot, which perfectly curled in to the goal, leaving their keeper with no chance of saving. The Wasps brought on Hainsworth, White and Mitchell in place of Fisher, Johnson and Bedford. Although the Wasps continued to dominate the game they were unable to increase their lead before half time, but fully deserved to be in front.

In the second half the Wasps made a few changes with some players operating in unfamiliar positions. For the first few minutes as they were getting accustomed to these positions, Leeds City took control and pushed forward in search of a goal. On one occasion a Leeds City player was one on one with keeper Robinson, but Robinson stood tall and dived to his left, to make a brilliant one handed save. Eventually though the Wasps regained control and started to push forward once more. Hainsworth and Langdale both put in solid performances on the wings and with White commanding midfield, the Wasps eventually got their deserved third goal on 7 minutes.

Sheard's persistence took the ball to the by-line and he crossed it into the area; the ball hit a Leeds City player and unfortunately for him, the ball bounced in to the open goal. The three goals were no more than they deserved, but still the Wasps pushed forward yet again, with both Mitchell and Johnson having several opportunities, only to be denied by good defending and good goal keeping.

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13th January 2008

Hornets v Churwell Lions ( D 2-2)

Forget the Premiership, the match to be at on Sunday was the games between Churwell Lions and Gildersome Spurs.The Hornets and the Lions put on a fabulous display in front of a great crowd of spectators. The first half was very even, both teams playing flowing football and creating chances – only to be denied by some excellent keeping in both goals; Hattersley pulling off a great save as Churwell broke clear.

At the other end, Cantrell created space but the keeper pushed the ball around the post. The resulting corner was headed over the bar by Ferguson as Spurs piled on the pressure; Wood also being denied by a great defensive blocked as he looked to pull the trigger.

The second half started at a fierce pace and it was Churwell that opened the scoring when they broke down the right and a cross was converted by the Spurs' keeper. The Hornets responded in usual fashion; Man of the Match Mawson unleashed a rocket that unfortunately smashed against the cross-bar and bounced down only to be cleared. With the pressure against the home team mounting, it wasn't long before Spurs drew level – Smith side-footing in from close range. Chances came and went for both team but as the game approached the last few minutes the Hornets grabbed a second. Wood and Cantrell combined superbly and Smith again found himself in the right place to tap home.

With the clock ticking down, Churwell mustered several more attacks and were rewarded when a ricochet fell to a Churwell player and he slammed it home to bring the scores level. The game ended 2-2; a fair result played and supported in a fantastic spirit – a credit to both clubs.

Wasps v Churwell Lions (W 1-0)

The Wasps were up against a strong Churwell side for this top of the table game. It turned out to be a physically hard and exhausting game for the players due to the heavy pitch; but the Wasps used their squad to the full with continuous substitutions to give players a rest.

The Wasps worked very hard and for most of this half, the Wasps' keeper, Robinson, had very little to do. With Fisher and Langdale running the wings and another solid performance from Sheard in midfield, the Wasps pushed forward in search of that opening goal. Credit to Churwell they defended well with some solid tackling and good goal keeping. When Churwell had the opportunity to push forward, the Wasps' defence of Pennock and Hughes were in great form to clear any danger; and Pennock had the confidence to charge forward from defence, pushing his team forward into another attack.

With Hainsworth on for an exhausted Fisher, the Wasps were eventually rewarded for their hard work on 19 minutes. Man of the Match Hainsworth, picked up the ball on the left and ran into the boggy penalty area; following a scramble the ball broke free to Johnson, who smashed the ball into the goal to give the Wasps a well deserved lead. With confidence high the Wasps again pushed forward in search of a second goal. Langdale had an excellent shot saved by their keeper and Hainsworth was unlucky not to reward his excellent performance with a goal, when his goal bound shot hit the post.

The second half was very similar to the first with every player working hard and putting in a solid performance. Ellis, who came on for Hughes at the end of the first half, took up the midfield position, with Sheard moving to defence to partner Pennock. Ellis put in a solid performance covering every blade of grass to push his team forward into attack, and also help out in defence. Churwell did have their opportunities to score but the ever reliable Robinson, who was not fazed by the boggy goal area, pulled off some timely saves to keep a well deserved clean sheet.

An exhausted Ellis made way for Langdale in midfield as Spurs pushed forward in search of another goal. With Fisher now back on the field playing in his familiar left wing and Hainsworth now playing on the right wing, only some good defending by Churwell prevented the Wasps from increasing their lead. Both Pennock and Sheard had their opportunities to push the Wasps forward with counter attacks from defence, but unfortunately the second goal they deserved never came and the game ended one nil to the Wasps.

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6th January 2008

Hornets v Glen Juniors A (W 4-2)

Gildersome Spurs Hornets returned to action after the festive and produced a great performance, pulling off a super victory against a very good Glen Juniors team.

Both teams were evenly matched in the early stages; the Hornets playing some great football and Glen always quick on the break. Both defences appeared to on top – Mawson and Hobbs doing some fine tackles and excellent passing. Despite Spurs creating early chances, it was Glen that took the lead with a fine header from a well taken corner. Minutes later, the Hornets should have drawn level; Smith firing over from two yards. The Hornets were now motoring; Ferguson began to dominate the centre of the park and Smith, Wood and Cantrell began to show what a good attacking force they are. Smith made amends for his earlier miss when he drew Spurs level, tapping in from close range following a low cross from Ferguson . With their tails up the Hornets poured forward, passing the ball with confidence throughout the entire team. They took the lead when Man of the Match Ferguson broke through from midfield, evaded one challenge and buried the ball in to the corner.

Glen didn't give up and responded well – almost levelling on two separate occasions; Hattersley in the Spurs goal puling off two super saves to deny the home team an equaliser. Spurs grabbed their third goal following a short corner between Ferguson and Wood; Ferguson threading the ball across the goal for Smith to tap in to the net.

Glen started the 2nd half strongly and a momentary lapse in concentration by Spurs allowed their attacker to slide in and pull a goal back. More resolute defending from Hobbs, Mawson and Wainwright kept the Glen at bay.

As the half wore on, Spurs regained control – the home team having their keeper to thank as he pulled off four stunning saves denying Cantrell, Smith, Wood and Ferguson. Spurs missed the opportunity to increase their lead when Ferguson missed from the penalty spot. At the other end, Hattersley had to be quick off his line to block a one on one situation; a save which ultimately determined the destiny of this game as the ball then fell kindly to Ferguson who played in Wood down the left. Woods run in to the box created a chance for Cantrell and this time he coolly slotted home in to the far corner of the net. Smith almost claimed his hat-trick but another fine save from the Glen keeper kept the ball out. Spurs saw out the remaining minutes with the score remaining at 4-2 to the Hornets.

Wasps v Glen Juniors B ( W 3-1)

This was Wasps first game after the holiday period and they were up against a strong Glen Juniors' side. The Wasps battled hard from the start and they were soon rewarded with their first goal on two minutes. An accurate goal kick from Wasps' keeper Robinson, found Langdale on the right wing; his powerful run took the ball to the edge of the Glen penalty area and he passed the ball to Johnson, who venomous shot rocketed in to the roof of the net. Glen Juniors were unlucky not to equalise when a powerful shot smashed against the Wasps' goal post.

The Wasps continued to battle hard and pushed forward with good work from Sheard, Fisher, Langdale and Johnson. The Wasps defence of Pennock and Hughes were solid and a confident Pennock, made some good strong runs from defence to push his team forward.

The Wasps brought on White for Johnson in search of their second goal. From a throwing White was unlucky not to score when he ‘coolly' flicked the ball over everybody, only to find the ball rebound off the cross bar and back out in to open play. The Wasps doubled their lead shortly before half time when Fisher won the ball in midfield; his accurate pass found Langdale who shot low into the Glen goal.

At the start Bedford replaced Hughes in the Wasps defence. Wasps continued to battle hard but unfortunately as they pushed forward, they left a Glen player unmarked and he shot into the Wasps' goal, leaving Robinson with no chance of saving.

The Wasps heads didn't drop and they pushed forward in search of a third goal. Fisher won the ball in midfield and he ran into the penalty area and passed the ball along the goal face to an oncoming Langdale, who just couldn't make contact with the ball with his outstretched leg.

The Wasps were rewarded for their efforts 13 minutes into the second half. From a corner a Glen player sliced his clearance and the ball looped over their keeper, giving the Wasps a deserved two goal cushion.

With a good second half performance from Bedford and Pennock in the Wasps defence, and another solid display by Man of the Match Sheard in midfield, Spurs looked comfortable and confident. Several more efforts on goal followed from the Wasps but fine keeping from the Glen keeper kept them at bay.

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9th December 2007

Hornets v Middleton Park (W 14-0)

No rain in the sky this Sunday morning, but it was certainly raining goals as the Hornets notched up a 14-0 score line against Middleton Park .

The match was only 11 seconds old when Smith latched on to a through pass from Ferguson and fired in to the bottom corner. Ferguson grabbed his first when Middleton failed to clear. The Hornets, now relaxed and playing some great football, began to dominate. Man of the match Wainwright started the move for the next goal as he intercepted a through ball and fed Smith who in turn fed Ferguson . A neat chip over the defence resulted in Mawson hitting a volley in to the top corner. Cantrell, up front for Spurs, coolly slotted home the teams fourth goal and Smith rounded off a good first half with a rocket that almost broke the net.

The 2nd half continued in the same manner – Smith grabbed his hat-trick with a neat finish following a mis-cued goal kick from the Middleton defender. Hattersley in the Spurs goal had little to do all game but remained focussed and alert to any potential danger.

The Middleton players didn't give up but were torn apart from the next passage of play from the Hornets as they rattled in four goals in the space of five minutes. Ferguson scored from the penalty spot after Cantrell was brought down in the box. Ferguson's third and fourth came from long range efforts; with Cantrell bagging the Hornets 10th with an other lovely finish.

The Spurs outfit could afford to shuffle the pack; defenders moving up in to midfield and attack. Hobbs battled in midfield and almost got on the score sheet on numerous occasions – the Middleton keeper and defenders performing heroics to keep out a rampant Spurs.

Ferguson grabbed his fifth from close range following a parry from a Mawson shot. Cantrell claimed his hat-trick with a shot from an acute angle that flew in to the corner and his fourth from a cross ball from Smith. With only a minute remaining, Smith scored his fourth and the Hornets 14th .

A good solid performance from each of the Spurs players.

Wasps v Middleton Park (W 11-0)

A five star performance from Mitchell helped the Wasps to their biggest win of the season.

Fisher, playing only his second game for the club, opened up the scoring, slotting in from close range following a corner from Sheard. Fisher then grabbed his second goal, finishing off a great move between captin Langdale and defender Bedford – Bedford's pin-point cross enabling Fisher to tap in from close range.

Fisher grabbed a fortuitous third when his powerful left foot shot proved too hot to handle for the unfortunate Middleton keeper; the ball rebounding off the keeper's chest and in to the net. With Sheard dominating the midfield, Fisher had licence to go forward and duly collected his fourth with a super strike that found the top corner.

Mitchell and Ellis came on before half-time as the Wasps had the luxury of being able to change things around a little. Mitchell scored his first goal following a super assist from White; a inch perfect cross from the forward was coolly side-footed home by Mitchell. To make it 5-0 at half-time.

With barely a minute gone in the 2nd half, the Wasps tore in to the Middleton team and White capped off a fine performance, lashing in the ball from 10 yards. The Wasps seventh goal was a superb team effort. Middleton had pushed forward and gained a corner following a save from Robinson. Bedford cleared the ball down the line to White. A beautifully weighted pass found Mitchell and his crisp finish nestled in to the corner. Pennock and Bedford were a solid partnership in defence and broke up any attack from the Middleton players. Mitchell grabbed his third and fourth goals – again, following some fantastic team passing from the Spurs' players. Ellis came close to scoring when he hit the post but it was Pennock that got on the score sheet as he moved forward in to midfield – slamming the ball home from close range. With only a few minutes remaining, Robinson was brought out of goal for a run and got in some fine tackles in the centre of the park. It was Man of the Match Mitchell that stole the show though, when he claimed his fifth and the Wasps 11th , side-footing a cross from Langdale. A great all round team performance from the Spurs outfit.

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25th November 2007

Hornets v Shadwell United (Won 4-1)

The Hornets were flying immediately from the kick-off and found themselves 2-0 up within 7 minutes. The first came after sustained pressure on the Shadwell goal; a sublime header from Ferguson as he powered in a great corner from Smith. The second, prodded home by Wood following good work from Cantrell and Smith upfront.

The Spurs outfit were now in control and the defensive partnership of Mawson and Hobbs began to set up play from their own area. As the half wore on, Shadwell did get back in to it and forced Hattersley in the Spurs goal to make several fine saves – most notably a fine stop at his near post.

The 2nd half swung from end to end but again it was Spurs that found their shooting boots. Along clearance from Hattersley was defected in to the path of Wood who coolly slotted the ball home. Hobbs and Mawson were put under pressure by Shadwell as the home team looked to get back in to the game. Man of the Match Hattersley produced a really brave save at the feet of a Shadwell striker and Mawson cleared the danger.

As the game wore on, the pitch began to take its toil on the legs of the strikers and midfield players and chances began to appear for both teams. One such opportunity was handed to the Hornets and they duly smashed in their fourth goal. Ferguson took a long throw-in, Wood flicked it on and Cantrell volleyed it home from 8 yards.

The home team did not give up and were rewarded when Spurs failed to clear a loose ball and the Shadwell striker fired in a shot that beat Hattersley. The Spurs team endured several more minutes of Shadwell pressure but held out to keep the score at 4-1 to Gildersome.

Wasps v Shadwell United (Drew 2-2)

The Wasps dug deep today and put in a spirited performance which brought about a 2-2 draw against a well organised Shadwell B team.

Both teams looked to push forward and the early chances came for Shadwell; unfortunately for them they found Robinson, in the Spurs goal, once again in magnificent form as he produced a handful of saves to keep out Shadwell. At the other end, approach play from Gildersome was very good but Shadwell seemed to be able to cancel out that final shot, with the exception of a Calum Fisher shot that looked to have crossed the line but wasn't given by the referee; inevitably, the half finished goal-less.

The 2nd half was a different story – full of incident, goals and lots of end to end action. Shadwell opened up the scoring with an accurate shot from an acute angle that sneaked in at the near post. Hughes, Pennock and Bedford were called in to action on several occasions as the Shadwell team pushed for another goal. In midfield, Johnson, Fisher and Langdale worked tirelessly and it was Langdale's persistence that resulted in a goal. Ellis caused problems and confusion in the Shadwell penalty area and when the ball came out to Langdale wide right, from what appeared to be an almost impossible angle to score from, he cracked the ball across the goal and it nestled in to the corner of the net.

Shadwell rallied and at times it was all hands to the pump as the Spurs defence threw every part of their body in front of the ball. Then, out of the blue, a speculative shot bounced awkwardly in front of Robinson and rolled in to the goal. The Wasps bounced back and forced the Shadwell team on to the defensive. Pennock, their trusty defender pushed forward and got Spurs back on level terms when he hit the ball towards the goal. Unfortunately, the Shadwell keeper must have been unsighted and the ball seemed to collect dust as it dribbled over the line to the excitement of the Spurs' supporters.

With only minutes remaining, the Shadwell keeper pulled off a sensational save when he blocked what appeared to be a certain goal from Langdale – the only result being a corner to Gildersome. Moments later, the referee brought to an end this thoroughly entertaining game with the score remaining at 2-2.

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18th November 2007

Wasps v Wortley Juniors B (Lost 0-6)

The Wasps were up against a strong and well organised Wortley team. From the kick off the Wasps were put under pressure but Pennock and Bedford did well to initially smother the Wortley attacks. The Wasps battled hard to try and get forward up the wings with Langdale and Mitchell, but their final ball was always well cut out by the Wortley defence.

Wortley continued to press forward and eventually they were rewarded for their efforts from a well worked corner, firing a shot into the corner of the goal. The Wasps tried to push forward in search of an equaliser with Hughes battling hard in midfield. With more pressure from Wortley the Wasps found themselves two goals behind. A well struck shot from Wortley was too hard for the excellent Robinson to keep out. Straight from the restart the Wasps lost procession and another well struck shot from Wortley bounced awkwardly, leaving Robinson with no chance. With Wortley in command and pushing for their forth, it took some excellent goal keeping from Robinson, to keep the score-line 3-0 at half time.

In the second half the Wasps moved Pennock into midfield and Crowther to the right wing. For the first ten minutes the Wasps battled hard and pushed forward to try and grab a goal. Unfortunately though, the Wortley defence held firm and the Wasps strikers of White and Hainsworth had few other opportunities during the game.

Wortley pushed forward again and were rewarded with their fourth goal when the Wasps defence failed to clear a cross. The brave Wasps keeper Robinson, who had suffered a knee injury in the first half, pulled off a string of further saves, but could do nothing to prevent Wortley from grabbing a fifth. Wortley soon made it six with a near post header from a well taken corner. The Wasps battled on to the end as the weather turned for the worse and the game ended with a well deserved victory for the visitors. Even with the work rate of Pennock and Langdale, the Wasps found this Wortley side too strong for them on the day.

We must give a special mention to Wasps Man of the Match, Robinson, for his brave and heroic efforts in goal on this bitterly cold wet day. Robinson also received accreditation from the Wortley coaching staff for his efforts today.

Hornets v Wortley Juniors A (W 3-1)

The Hornets once again had to come from behind in a match that, despite dominating in the first half, they only managed to narrowly win.

Straight from kick-off, the Hornets piled on the pressure - Ferguson , Smith and Johnson all having long range shots that failed to hit the target. Wood, playing up front this week in the absence of the Hornets usual striker, produced several scintillating runs, two of which produced outstanding saves from the Wortley keeper. Ferguson should have opened the scoring following a Smith corner, but the midfielder crashed the header over the bar.

Wortley defended superbly and then found themselves in the lead when a long distance shot squirmed underneath the body of the Spurs' keeper and across the line. The Hornets responded well but again found their luck had deserted them; Smith hitting the crossbar and Wood once again being denied by the Wortley keeper.

The 2nd half was a little more even, but again it was Spurs that found themselves misfiring in front of goal. At the back, the defensive partnership of Mawson and Wainwright stood up to any challenge that came their way; Mawson coolly playing the ball out of defence to set up attacks on numerous occasions. Hattersley made two good saves before the Hornets finally got themselves on level terms. With eleven minutes remaining, a clearance from Wortley defender hit Wood and the ball ricocheted across the line. A few minutes later the Hornets were 2-1 up; a good move involving Johnson and Wood was finished off by Ferguson . Wortley did not give up and the game began o flow from side to side. Both teams hit the crossbar but the Hornets grabbed a 3rd goal when Smith laid the ball to Wood who ran a full 40 yards before dragging the ball back across the goal-line for Johnson to tap home.

A gutsy performance from the Hornets as they turned the game around and fully deserved this victory.

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11th November 2007

Hornets v Farsley Celtic A (Won 3-1)

The Hornets bounced back to form with a great display against a strong Farsley Celtic team. Both teams started well but it was Farsley who settled quicker; pushing forward and forcing some good defending from Mawson and Hobbs. Spurs keeper Hattersley made some comfortable saves during this early pressure as the Farsley forward line pushed for goal. At the other end, Cantrell looked sharp upfront and the midfield trio of Wood, Smith and Ferguson began to get to grips with the pace of the game.

Farsley took the lead midway through the half when a shot bobbled in front of the Spurs keeper and rebounded out to a Farsley striker who pounced to knock the ball in to the net. Spurs responded well and were level within minutes when Smith slipped a superb ball through to Cantrell who shot first time in to the bottom corner of the net. Moments later Spurs got their second goal. Ferguson was fouled just inside the oppositions half and the subsequent free-kick was crashed in by Smith.

Spurs were now rampant; Man of the Match Mawson and Hobbs grew in confidence and the midfield started to find space as the entire Spurs team started to play the football we have come to expect. Pennock, playing his first game for the Hornets, was given a run out upfront and produced some great link up play as he dragged the Farsley defence from side to side.

Spurs third goal was a peach of a header from Wood. Ferguson launched in a long corner and Wood, five yards out from the back post, sent a sensational header into the bottom corner.

The 2nd half was a close affair. Farsley exerting a lot of pressure on the Spurs goal as they rained in corner after corner but spurs breaking forward with such speed the linesman struggled to keep up with play. Spurs did have the ball in the net but Ferguson's effort was ruled out for hand ball. Final score remaining at 3-1 to the Hornets.

Wasps v Farsley Celtic B (Lost 1-6)

The Wasps found the going tough as they came across a strong Farsley B team. Immediately from the kick-off the Spurs team found themselves on the defensive. Robinson in goal was called upon on several occasions, as was Hughes who played really well and fully deserved the Man of the Match award.

Farsley struck first with a goal from a quickly taken corner that was eventually touched in by their striker. It wasn't long thought before the Wasps were back on level terms; Johnson capitalising on a weak throw from the Farsley keeper and placing the ball in to the empty net. With only minutes remaining, Farsley re-took the lead when a Spurs player unfortunately deflected in a Farsley corner.

The 2nd half was a completely different encounter. Farsley dominated the game as Spurs struggled to find any form. Langdale, Ellis and White tried their best to get the Wasps back in the game but found the Farsley midfield and defence in no mood to let things slip.

Bedford and Robinson battled all the game but couldn't do anything about the next few goal that went in, especially Farsley's fourth which went like a rocket in to the top corner. It was just one of those games for the Wasps as failed to find any rhythm in the 2nd half; Farsley finally running out 6-1 winners.

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4th November 2007

Hornets v Kippax A (Lost 2-4)

The Hornets were on the wrong side of the score line this week when they played in a friendly with Kippax. Kippax started the strongest, but were kept at bay by some good defending by Hobbs and Mawson plus some excellent keeping by Robinson. The Hornets, always quick on the break, began to gain more possession. A fantastic pass from Smith carved open the Kippax defence and Wood rounded the keeper and rapped the ball in to the open net.

Spurs found their rhythm and could have increased their lead on several occasions; Smith and Ferguson both hitting the crossbar and Wood narrowly missing following a mazy run. Attacking football was the order of play today and Kippax grabbed the equaliser when a right wing cross found the top corner of the net. Kippax scored another goal shortly after; their quick forward drilling in a fine shot following a long throw in.The Hornets didn't give up and were unlucky not to equalise when Ferguson rose highest at a corner, but his powerful header went inches over.

The 2nd half was just as fast and furious; Kippax having the majority of the play in the early stages. They grabbed their 3rd goal when a short deflected off a Spurs player against the bar, but dropped down to Kippax player who duly slotted home.

Spurs had their backs to the wall and had their keeper to thank as he pulled off some smart saves. Their spirits were raised when Ferguson picked up the ball midfield, sprinted down the right and slotted the ball passed the dive of the Kippax keeper. Spurs pushed forward for the equaliser, but were caught out when Kippax floated over a corner – their forward found space and duly hit the ball into the net. Final score was 4-2 to Kippax, but both teams played their part in a fantastic battle.

Wasps v Kippax B (Drew 2-2)

The Wasps put on a great display against a well organised Kippax team. Both teams were determined to play attractive football and took every opportunity to push forward. Sheard had an excellent game in midfield and came close to opening the scoring when he combined well with Bedford – but his short was well saved by the keeper.Down the right wing, Langdale produced several great runs, but on each occasion the Kippax defence stood firm. At the other end, Hughes, who had had a fantastic game in defence and his partner Pennock were kept busy by a sprightly Kippax attacking partnership. Spurs battled on and were rewarded when Langdale latched onto a brave header by Ellis and lobbed the ball over the keeper. The Wasps continued to press forward; a couple of long shots from Johnson and Mitchell kept the Kippax defence and keeper busy, but the score remained 1-0 going into half time.

Kippax came out very strong in the 2nd half and pushed forward looking for a goal. Within 10 minutes they were 2-1 up and appeared to be taking control of the game. Chances for Spurs were few and far between. Mitchell coming the closest with a rocket shot that the Kippax keeper did well to push around the post. The Wasps finally got their reward when, following an Ellis corner the ball came out to Sheard who cracked it back over the keeper's head into the roof of the net. This very exciting game finally ended at 2-2.

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14th October 2007

Hornets v Tingley Corinthians (Won 11-1)

It was raining goals as the Hornets turned in a fine performance against Tingley Corinthians. Immediately from the kick-off, the Hornets asserted pressure on to the defence and Tingley keeper; forcing several successive corners. It wasn't however until the 7th minute that the Hornets struck – a fine shot from Wood just inside the box following a great turn and pass from Smith. Minutes later following some pressure on the Spurs goal which Mawson and Wainwright coped with admirably a long through ball from Ferguson found Wood again, who held off a challenge from the Tingley defence and slipped the ball passed the keeper.

The Hornets took their foot off the gas and allowed the Tingley team back in to the game. A corner was not cleared and in the scramble a Tingley player forced the ball over the line – game on !

Immediately from the kick-off, Wood restored the twq goal advantage. Smith found space on the right and floated over a delicate ball which Wood headed in to the corner of the net; Spurs going in 3-1 at half-time.

The 2nd half brought the best out of the Hornets. Within qne minute of play resuming, Smith grabbed his first of the season with a powerful shot that gave the keeper no chance. Moments later Smith was on target again to stretch the Hornets lead to 5-1. Smith then turned provider when he floated over a cross for Cantrell to volley home. Man of the Match Smith grabbed his hat-trick when he picked up a through ball from Ferguson and duly buried it in to the back of the net. Cantrell made it 8-1 when the Tingley team were carved apart with the slick passing of their opponents.

Ferguson grabbed the ninth when he picked up a pass from Smith, turning neatly in the box and firing passed the unlucky Tingley keeper.

Mawson, Hobbs and Wainwright stuck to their task keeping the Tingley attackers at bay; Hattersley in the Spurs goal only being called in to action on a few occasions. Crowther almost grabbed his first goal when he had a half-chance in the box following a corner, but the shot was cleared by Tingley. The Tingley keeper made several outstanding saves; Ferguson , Smith, Cantrell and Mawson all coming close to extending the Hornets lead.

Cantrell picked up his hat-trick when he raced clear of the Tingley defence, slipping the ball in to the corner. In the dying minutes, Smith capped a great performance when he netted his fourth and Spurs eleventh to complete the scoring. Another brilliant team performance by the young Spurs outfit.

Wasps v Tingley Corinthians (Won 5-0)

The Wasps turned in other super display as they came out winners in this game against Tingley Corinthians. Playing a fantastic passing game, they tore in to the Tingley half at every opportunity. Mitchell causing major problems down the right flank as he danced past several Tingley players only to be thwarted by a good save from the keeper. At the other end, a fine performance from Hughes and Pennock aided by the impressive Robinson in the Spurs goal; kept the Tingley players to only a handful of half-chances. Johnson, playing side left, was on fire today and began carving out chances for his forward line. As the pressure mounted it was Langdale who grabbed the opener, firing in to the roof of the net after White layed the ball in to his path. \the Spurs captain grabbed his second mid-way through the half when Johnson drilled in a super cross from the left. The on-running Langdale coolly side-footing it passed the keeper. Tingley pushed forward and could have capitalised on some lapses in defence, but last ditch tackles and some confident keeping kept Tingley out – the Wasps going in tow up at half-time.

The 2nd half was an even affair – Hainsworth put in a gutsy performance up front but it was Johnson that was causing all the problems. Their third goal came courtesy of the super battling from White; holding off twq defenders as he ran on to a through ball from Pennock and finishing with a shot that the keeper failed to hold on to. Man of the Match Johnson grabbed his first with a beautiful left foot strike that the keeper stood no chance with.

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7th October 2007

Hornets v Leeds City Juniors (Won 7-1)

The Hornets found themselves 1-0 up within three minutes when Cantrell found space in the box and hit a shot passed the Leeds City keeper. For the next 10 minutes it was one-way traffic with Wood, Ferguson and Smith taking control of midfield. Several chances went begging and Spurs should have been way out in front but instead found themselves pegged back when a Leeds player squeezed the ball over the line during a scramble in the box.

The Hornets steadied themselves; Man of the Match Hobbs raised his game at the back and his confidence filtered through the team. Cantrell grabbed his second following a long throw-in from Ferguson and on the stroke of half-time Wood bundled in the 3rd to give the Spurs outfit a cushion of a couple of goals.

The 2nd half brought the best out of the Hornets as they upped the tempo and sped through the gears. Wood grabbed his second after some lovely play that started with the keeper Hattersley, Hobbs, Mawson, Ferguson and finally Smith who found Wood with a pin-point cross.

Confidence was now running through the team; Cantrell completing his hat-trick following another huge throw-in from Ferguson . Ferguson again turned provider for Spurs sixth when he gift-wrapped a goal with a neat spin and first time pass; Cantrell producing a super strike that the keeper could only watch fly passed him. Wood completed the scoring when he finished off another fine move to claim his hat-trick and give the Spurs outfit a 7-1 victory.

Wasps v Leeds City Juniors (Won 4-0)

With barley a minute gone, the Wasps gained a corner. Captain Sheard curled in the corner to the near post and the Leeds City keeper unfortunately pushed the ball in to the net. The Wasps were buzzing and were unfortunate not to double their lead when White and Johnson combined – but the resulting shot drifted wide.

Leeds City battled hard but found Pennock and Bedford in superb form in the Spurs defence.

Three minutes before half-time the Wasps found themselves 2-0 up. Man of the Mmatch Pennock connecting beautifully with a shot from fully 25 yards that drifted over the keeper's outstretched hands.

Spurs shuffled the pack a little at the half-time interval but it didn't stop the flow the football. Ellis stuck to the task of central midfield; playing the simple pass and getting in tackles when needed. Mitchell had a fabulous game wide right; frequently beating two and three players as he went on the rampage down the wing.

As Leeds pushed forward the Wasps exploited the gaps that opened up to them. Mitchell got his reward when he ran a full 40 yards with the ball after receiving a pass from Pennock; finishing with a smart low drive that nestled in to the bottom corner.

Leeds bounced back and forced several corners but Robinson in the Spurs goal was up to the task and thwarted any danger than came his way.

With the clock ticking away Pennock rounded off a great performance when he broke in to the box and slotted in his second and the Wasps fourth following a great cut back from Johnson.

Final score, 4-0 to the Wasps.

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30th September 2007

Pudsey Juniors v Hornets (Won 1-4)

The Hornets returned to winning ways this weekend with a fine display against Pudsey Juniors. Immediately from the start the Spurs outfit got on top and peppered shots towards the Pudsey goal. Heroics from the Pudsey defence and the Pudsey keeper frustrated the Hornets; Wood, Cantrell, Smith and Ferguson all coming close but unable to capitalise on all their possession.

Mawson, Hobbs and Wainwright at the back were once again in fine form – especially with the excellent link-up play between the defenders and the midfield players. Hattersley in goal had a quiet first half but had to be alert when the Pudsey team sprang from defence in to attack on numerous occasions.

The second half was very much the same with lots of pressure and possession from Spurs but some fine quick breaks from Pudsey. The break-through finally came when Smith found space down the right, his low cross found Ferguson who swept a left footer in to the corner. The supporters thought that would lead to more Spurs goals but two minutes later they were caught out when a long punt forward found a Pudsey attacker who sprinted on to it and lashed the ball passed the dive of Hattersley – one shot and one goal.

The Hornets responded in fantastic fashion – Cantrell this time finding Wood in the box with his low shot creeping over the line. The Hornets were now motoring and grabbed their third when Ferguson lashed the ball from the edge of the area in to the net – their passing and movement was at times, brilliant to watch.

Mawson moved to right wing for a while and produced some great runs; meanwhile at the back, Hobbs and Wainwright continued to grow in confidence as the game went on.

The final goal came in the last minute. Spurs defended a corner superbly with a header out from Ferguson to Man of the Match Wood, who in turn ran the length of the pitch. His cross was met by Cantrell who smashed a ‘bicycle kick volley' into the corner of the net. Spurs winning 4-1.


Pudsey Juniors v Wasps (Won 0-3)

The Wasps also returned to winning ways with their best display of the season against a good Pudsey side. Every single player had a great game – Sheard bossing the midfield, Pennock the defence and Johnson supporting the attack at every opportunity. Spurs came close on several occasions – White and Sheard coming close with low shots. At the other end, Robinson was kept on his toes following a couple of break-away attacks. Bedford, Hughes and Pennock were all superb at the back – working hard to cover for each other when the Pudsey team threatened to strike at goal. A free-kick led to Spurs opening the scoring. Sheard laying the ball back to Johnson who had created space in the box – his shot was hard and low and gave the Pudsey keeper no chance. 1-0 to Spurs at half-time.

Spurs continued to force the pace and were unlucky not to grab a second at the start of the 2nd half when Pennock mis-queued a shot after fantastic battling from Hainsworth and Mitchell. It wasn't long though for the supporters to enjoy another goal from Spurs – Man of the Match Johnson firing in another superb shot that flashed passed the keeper and buried itself in to the back of the net.

Pudsey responded well and almost grabbed a goal back when their attacker sped forward – Robinson rushed from his goal and smothered the ball with a fantastic dive at his opponent's feet.

With only a few minutes remaining the Wasps rounded off a great team performance when White pounced on to a loose ball in the box and placed the it wide of the keeper – giving the Spurs team a very good 3-0 win.

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23rd September 2007

Hornets v Churwell Lions (Lost 0-1)

The Hornets faced tough opposition this weekend with a home fixture against Churwell Lions. Both teams started well but failed to create any clear-cut chances – both sets of defender cancelling out any opportunities that came the attackers way.

With two very strong midfields space was at a premium. The closest Spurs came was a couplf of mazy runs from Wood and snap shot from Ferguson following a neat lay-off from Smith. Churwell did create a couple of half-chances, but Hobbs and Hattersley in the Spurs goal were quick to clear their lines. The half-time score arrived with the game at nil-nil.

The 2nd half continued in the same manner – with both sides pushing forward to grab a goal. Ferguson went closest with a rocket that crashed against the cross-bar. Smith, Ferguson and Wood had shots well saved by the Churwell keeper, who seemed to attract the ball towards him like a magnet.

The match appeared to be heading for a draw, which would have been a fair result but then a mistake by the Hornets gifted the Churwell attacker a chance and he duly tapped it in from five yards.

Spurs had time for a final rally with Fergusons free-kick narrowly drifting over the bar and Smith and Cantrell combining well but again the chance wasn't taken. A narrow defeat from the Hornets as the score ended 0-1 to Churwell.

Wasps v Churwell Lions (Lost 0-2)

End to end football seemed to be the recipe for this mornings game as the Wasps battled well against a well organised Churwell Lions team. Langdale and White combined nicely upfront to create an opening, but the shot went wide.

Pennock, playing a central midfield role today, covered every blade of grass and got in some super tackles. Bedford and Wainwright in the Spurs defence gelled well together well helped by Robinson in the Spurs goal.

Churwell, playing with the wind at their backs, put pressure on the Spurs defence and goal and came close to scoring; but a great save from Robinson and a super clearance from Johnson, averted the danger. The teams going in 0-0 at half-time.

Spurs started well in the 2nd half; with Ellis making some important interceptions at the hart of the midfield. Crowther battled well down the left but eventually ran out of steam midway through the half. The pack was shuffled and picked up a gear only to see themselves fall behind to a goal from Churwell – their forward latching on to a defensive slip and driving the ball passed the keeper. Spurs kept going but were caught out again when a speculative high shot towards goal went over the keepers head to make it 2-0 to Churwell.

The Wasps continued to battle – a late strike from Johnson narrowly going over the bar but the Lions held out to win 2-0.

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16th September 2007

Hornets v Glen Juniors (W 4-2)

Gildersome Spurs U9 kicked off their first league game with a home fixture against local rivals Glen Juniors. It was the away team that started much better, deservedly taking the lead following some sloppy defending from a throw-in.

The Hornets struggled to get to grips with Glen and found themselves 2-0 down with only 11 minutes played. This seemed to prompt Spurs in to life and immediately from kick-off Ferguson struck a shot which the keeper managed to deflect wide with his knee.

The Hornets began to find their passing and pulled a goal back when striker Cantrell found space in the box following a great pass from Smith. Minutes later, the Hornets were level – Ferguson linking with Wood who took the ball 20 yards before coolly slotting the ball past the keeper. The Spurs outfit were now finding their form and should have taken the lead when Smith found Cantrell who unfortunately stabbed the ball over the keeper but also over the bar.