Over 60 youngsters attended trials for places in the Boldmere Youth team squad (Under 18`s) at Braemar Road, Boldmere. Supervised by youth team coach Paul Casey and his new assistant Ross Thorpe, they will now look to turn some untried local lads into a winning team for the 2006-2007 season. Speaking exclusively to the Boldmere website, Ross stated his appointment at the club was a “A real big honour and a huge challenge.” He added “Boldmere St. Michaels Football Club has always meant something to me even as a kid.” Ross is already a qualified referee. He is currently studying for his UEFA 'B' badge and is looking forward to working with Paul Casey.”

Mark Jackson (Youth team Secretary) reports "Having attended the MYFL AGM at Solihull Borough FC on Monday night I can now confirm where the young `Mikes` will be playing and who against this coming season." Boldmere St Michaels have been reassigned from the Western Division where they just missed out on the title last season and have now been placed in the Eastern Division. There are eleven sides in the division with the withdrawal of Mile Oak Rovers prior to the meeting and the Division is now made up of: Alveston Nuneaton Griff Atherstone Town Racing Club Warwick Bedworth United Rugby Town Boldmere St Michaels Stratford Town Coventry Sphinx Highgate United Loughborough Dynamo Fixtures will start week commencing Monday 21 August 2006 Details to follow.

Last night (Monday)the `Mikes` new generation of kids kicked off the first of their schedule of pre-season games against the youth team of the Conference side. The game played at the sports field at Henley College, Coventry was a good workout for the Boldmere under 18`s against a strong Nuneaton Borough side that had at least one England Schoolboy International in their line up. Boldmere’s Coach Paul Casey took a squad of 20 players and rotated the team to ensure that he had a good look at his young charges who have signed up for the 2006-2007 season. He said “There were 12 players making their debuts for Boldmere. Some of them looked very nervous. They have realised now that they have stepped up to play at a higher level” The heat was to be a major factor with the temperature being 30 degrees at the kick off however for the most part,the game was played at a good tempo. Both teams tried to get the ball down and play attractive football on a very hard playing surface. Both defences cancelled each other out as chances were at a premium however Boldmere took the lead just before half-time when new signing Kieran Robinson was the quickest to respond prodding a shot home from close range after the Borough keeper made a good save. After the break Coach Casey brought on another nine players who took a little time to settle in as the Boldmere team was put under immediate pressure as Nuneaton searched for an equaliser. However they `weathered the storm` with good performances from Peter Gould and Steve Poole who have now the benefit of having played last season and who played the full 90 minutes. The game went through a `scrappy` period as match fitness for both teams began to tell in the stamina sapping heat. Boldmere found their rhythm with 20 minutes of the match to go. They had a bit more possession and applied pressure on the Borough defence. From a corner `Mikes` left winger Chris Goalie scored with a close range `tap in` after James Moore saw his headed effort cleared off the line. In the closing stages of the match, Matt Black score with an impressive header at the far post to secure the win for the young `Mikes`. After the game Paul Casey commenting on the match said, “The win was welcomed although at time it was not a classic to watch. We can improve especially with our fitness. I was impressed with several of the new lads who made their debut especially Matt Lewis. The whole squad worked hard and it looked like adopting that hard work `ethic` which I encourage. I would like to thank Nuneaton’s Manager Graham for setting up the game at the college and Ian Weaving my old pal for arranging the fixture.”

Boldmere’s youth team squad prepared for the 2006-2007 season when they travelled to Henley College, Coventry to take on a Nuneaton Borough. Borough’s youth team play in the Premiership Division of the Midland Floodlit Youth League. Boldmere’s Manager and Coach Paul Casey and new assistant Ross Thorpe, took a squad which included players from last seasons campaign and players who came through recent trials. Borough also paraded trialists in their line up. Ross Thorpe, a qualified referee, officiated the game as the scheduled `Man in Black` did not turn up. Boldmere keeper Michael Griffin was grateful that one of his defenders cleared early pressure by heading the ball away from danger on 6 minutes. In reply Boldmere’s trialists centre forward saw his shot tipped over the bar on 7 and 16 minutes. On 21 minutes Boldmere had a shot that `flashed across` the Nuneaton goal face. On 33 minutes Boldmere went close again after a volley went just wide. On 35 minutes Boldmere broke the deadlock when Kieran Robinson shot home from a cross to make it 1-0. In the closing stages of the first half Boldmere could have added more goals when Lyndon Weller cross was met by Sean Dunne whose effort went just over the bar. On 45 minutes a Boyd shot also just went past the post. Half time Nuneaton Borough 0 Boldmere St Michaels 1 Boldmere made wholesale changes in the second half with Guy Jones taking over in the young `Mikes` goal from Michael Griffin. Nuneaton piled on the pressure early on. Guy Jones made a impressive debut making several superb saves. Boldmere kept going despite the intense heat. On 89 minutes Chris Goalie drove the ball home after it bounced loose from a corner kick. Boldmere wrapped up a superb result on the final whistle as Matt Lewis hit home a bullet of a header home. Final score Nuneaton Borough 0 Boldmere St Michaels 3. Youth team secretary Mark Jackson said after the game, “The 2nd half saw a superb defensive display by the young `Mikes` and although it is only one game into the preseason schedule, it bodes well for their preparations for their campaign in the M.Y.F.L. Eastern Division.” Boldmere’s Youth team’s next outing is on Friday 28 July against Walsall Youth team. It will be a 7.30pm kick off on the Astroturf next to Bescot Stadium.

The `Mikes` youth team lost 3-2 at Coles Lane to the youth team of local rivals Sutton Coldfield Town this evening (Monday). Boldmere Youth team Coach Paul Casey accepted that his young charges could have well have been badly beaten. He said after the game “We could have lost by at least 10 goals.” The team’s performance in the last preseason game, has given him some food for thought as they prepare for the opening league match in the Eastern Division of the Midland Floodlit Youth League when Atherstone Town’s Youth come to Church Road on Monday 21st August. 7.30pm kick off. What will give him some consolation is he has players of the calibre of Peter Gould, Chris Goaley and Steve Poole who did not play in that match to return who will steady the team. Casey stated, “ I was happy with the Boldmere players with MFYL experience.” Michael Griffin saved his team’s blushes with some outstanding saves. Sean Mann scored the young `Mikes` second goal to put them 2-1 in the second half. He was bitterly disappointed that he was later substituted. Such is his desire to play 90 minutes in every match he stormed down the players tunnel (Wayne Rooney style) to the dressing room only to return to the bench and support his team-mates. Lyndon Weller, who does not yet realise what a good player he could be, played a delightful chip into the box on 35 minutes of the first half to set up Kieran Richardson to score an equaliser. Richard Bird bravely played 70 minutes despite a back strain. Dan Woods worked hard despite not have the influential Steve Poole playing along side him. Poole is a doubtful starter for the Atherstone game because of an ankle injury. Casey said “I have some good 15 and 16 years-old coming through but they may not be ready yet while I have other players who can go straight into the Reserve team.”

A Résumé of what was an great advert for youth team football in this Midland Floodlit Youth League match. Full match report to follow from Mark Jackson and post match comments from Paul Casey to follow. 15 Minutes: 1-0 Boldmere score through Centre Forward BALA. A free kick from Lyndon Weller, attacking the social club goal, was `chipped` in and the tall striker sent a powerful header into the visitors goal. 24 minutes: 1-1 Atherstone score through WILLIAMS who rose unchallenged to head home from a corner kick. 41 minutes: 1-2 A second goal conceded by Boldmere from a set play. A corner was headed in by. 58 minutes: 2-2 Sean MANN equalised for Boldmere after some fine determined play he `rode a tackle` and his strength moved him on when he drilled home a powerful shot. 70 Minutes: 2-3 to Atherstone when KING scores from another corner. 75 minutes: 3-3 GONZALES with his first touch of the ball after he came on as substitute receives a throw in from Matty Lewis on the left wing, he turns inside and sends a penetrating cross to the far post when Lynden WELLER `ghosting` behind their left back heads the ball home. 77 minutes: Michael Griffin, Boldmere’s keeper, makes a fine save from King and dives on it at the second attempt after the ball had bounced off the foot of the Boldmere goalpost. 78 Minutes: Boldmere go 4-3 ahead. Good work from BALA on the left hand side of the field of play. He played the ball into MANN who smashes the ball into the net. 80 Minutes: 4-4 Boldmere concede a penalty. M SMITH strokes the ball past Griffin left arm but the match referee orders the kick to be retaken. BROWETT (Atherstone team and B`ham County Captain who takes the kick himself this time and places the ball in the same corner as before. 85 minutes: Sean Mann having challenged and won the ball from an Atherstone defender then rounds the keeper only to see the ball deflected away from the open goal for a corner and misses out scoring a hat-trick. 89 minutes: 4-5 Atherstone score the winning goal through BROWETT.

Paul Casey speaking after the Atherstone Town game said “We have lost a game we could have won. They will know that they have beaten a good side.” He tips Atherstone or Bedworth United to be the likely winners of the Eastern Division of the MYFL. He said, “I do not think that we will come up against tougher teams than Atherstone and Bedworth.” He lamented that his team had chances to win the game in the closing stages of the game. He said “When Atherstone scored they then took the ball into the corners of the pitch to` eat up the time remaining. I thought Atherstone were a mature side not necessarily a better side than us but they used the ball well when they had possession. Although we can play football and were direct, we were also erratic at times. ” Coach Casey praised those players who made their debuts for the team. He praised those players that came on as substitutes for their efforts. He acknowledged that a few of the players still need to improve their fitness. He advised the players that this Eastern League will be more competitive than last season.

Boldmere youth team Coach Paul Casey described last Wednesday’s game as another good test for the young `Mikes` as Bedworth has historically always had strong sides. Paul said, “In the first half Bedworth never really came out of their half as our attacking play was fantastic. We created five or six half chances but we did not turn our possession into goals. The second half started with Lyndon Weller scoring straight after the kick off with a great goal. We then started to fall away as our lack of match fitness started to show especially on those players who have not trained regularly.” Paul Added, “Bedworth created only three chances all game but scored from one of them. Before then our goalkeeper Mike Griffin pulled out what for me is already the save of the season. The shot came from a volley from 25 yards out that was destined for the top corner of the net. I still cannot believe how he saved it.” On reflection Coach Casey said, “We must start creating chances from our possession otherwise we will struggle to win games. However we have played well in our first two games.” Boldmere’s next game is against Alveston s youth team. The fixture is on Monday 4th September at Church Road, Boldmere. It will be a 7.30pm kick off. They have won their first two games of the Midland Floodlit Youth League so they will be a team in form.

Boldmere’s under 18`s gained their first three points of the season with 3-0 win over a previously unbeaten Alveston team. However `Mikes` youth team coach Paul Casey was not too impressed with his side’s performance. He said, “The first 45 minutes was probably the worst I have seen from a Boldmere youth team for a very long time. The first half was very poor.” The fitness levels of individual players in his team were an issue. He added, “Most of my players are not up to scratch. I will be putting them through their paces over the coming months.” Although Boldmere scored in the first half when winger Lyndon Weller’s cross found centre forward Drenis Balla who scored with a simple tap in the first half, Coach Casey was not happy. He said, “We just stopped playing. Most of my players were playing below par.” Apparently after a few home truths said in the Boldmere dressing room at half-time the young `Mikes` came out to play with a bit more purpose. Paul said, “We pulled together after a few words from me to create 8-9 really good chances. However we still cannot convert these great chances we are creating from midfield and wide play. Two minutes into the second half, Lyndon Weller made it 2-0 after good work from Chris Goalie. He had the simplest task of side footing the ball into the net On 60 minutes Drenis Balla scored his second of the game putting the game out of Alveston`s reach to make it 3-0 and secure the three points. On reflection Casey said, “I will take the win every time but our performance over 90 minutes was very disappointing from my point of view. However as a Coach I am pleased to see young talent like Dave Boyd, André Gonzales and Luke Bradley all developing well. They have been patient and waited their turn to play mostly coming into the games as substitutes. I am keen to have competition in every position in the team. Regulars like Sean Mann and Richard Bird were not available. They should expect to find it difficult to get back in the team.” Next match up is AWAY at Loughborough Dynamo on Wednesday 13th September. 7.45pm. It is a game that Coach Casey is looking forward to. Commenting on the superb playing surface there he said, “It will be one of the best pitches we will play on this season.”

Paul Casey said straight after the game, “I thought the way we competed in the first 30 minutes was the best I have seen all season. Against a top team like Burton Albion you have to match them in attitude. Matching their ability is of course a different thing. We had gone a goal up but I we were still celebrating when they equalised. Their second and third goals came from clever approach play.” “The Boldmere lads looked a bit dejected at half time going in at 3-1 down after their hard working performance. In the half time talk I told them that I believed in them because I knew how well they played. I made a big statement to them. I said I would not, at that moment, sign any of the players from Burton. They actually do have some very good players that will go on to play Conference football.” “When Lyndon Weller scored two minutes after the restart, all of a sudden the emphasis changed to Boldmere. I have to say that there was a real `hunger` in the team to win this game. Some of my players have come from local Sunday football teams and have not had the luxury of playing at Academy level at professional clubs. They have had a tougher upbringing learning their football. The difference was that they really worked hard for each other and demonstrated their ability, attitude and application.” “Over 90 minutes I thought we were the better team against a very good side. For parts of the game you could not tell who was representing the Conference club.” “Burton Albion’s coach and former Birmingham City defender Darren Wassall said to me after the final whistle- you completely deserved to win the game. He knows his stuff but he had no answer to what we had. Burton were big and physical but having the will to win was shown by my lads tonight. Once we got back to 3-3, they did not look like scoring and we could have scored some more. We defended really well in the second half. Richard Dunleavy has played only his second game for me and is only just 16 years old.”

Boldmere Coach Paul Casey changed a winning team to give an opportunity to goalkeeper Guy Jones and striker Andre Gonzales to make their starting debuts. In his post match comments he said, “We started the game with great tempo keeping a young Eccleshall team in their own half for the first 20 minutes. Drenis Balla and Andre Gonzales caused them a lot of problems with Chris Goalie supplying the ammunition from the flank.” He added, “However the goals never materialised due to the lack of quality on the final ball and some very poor finishing. Their keeper did not have to make a save. We had at least 8 or 9 chances to go ahead but missed them all. We took our `foot off the pedal` and let a good Eccleshall side take control of the game. They should have scored but a great save from Guy Jones, where he tipped the ball on to the bar, stopped them taking the lead.” “In the second half we started well. I made changes sending on Sean Mann and Kieran Richardson on 60 minutes to see if they could get us the goals we needed. We had completely encamped in their half for the 2nd half. They only managed 2 or 3 corners from long balls.” Casey gave praise to the `Mikes` defence for keeping a clean sheet. “My keeper Guy Jones only had a save to make due to the great defending from Peter Gould, Mat Black, Mat Lewis and Richard Dunlevy.” He added, “In the 2nd half Eccleshall keeper (Jones) had a fantastic game making several saves to stop certain goals. He should be very proud of his performance. Eventually Sean Mann scored twice. Kieran Robinson scored a great `chip` shot to the back post to score the best goal I have seen this season.” Reflecting on the game Casey said, “Generally I was pleased with the team’s performance but there is always a room to improve attitude and decision making. We also need to improve on keeping the ball better as we give it away too much for my liking. You win games when you keep the ball and pass it to a team mate. Having to many touches means you lose the ball which then puts us under pressure. “ “The best players in the world only need 1 or 2 touches before passing the ball. So why do young players- at all levels- need too many touches before they can pass it .We will need to move the ball better if we are going to beat Stone next week in the FA Youth Cup They are unbeaten this season They have a great young side.”

After watching Stone Dominoes youth team a week ago you can see that they will probably win their respective Division or at least come very close to it this season. By holding Atherstone Town youth to a draw and then winning on penalties in extra time is evidence that they are one of the best teams in the Midland Floodlit Youth League. It will be interesting to see how far they go in the League Cup. Hopefully my Boldmere team will understand that they are playing against a team that is at the top of their game. We will have to play our best football to win .We are now unbeaten in six games. However, in my opinion, we should be unbeaten all season. We could not turn our chances into goals. My defenders are now coming to terms with our system so hopefully we will be able to keep it tight at the back allowing us to score the goals to win the games .We are not far off playing the same kind of football that we did last season which means we have come along way this season already. Monday night’s game will be a fantastic occasion. Hopefully we can make it through to the next round of the F.A. Youth Cup.

Well done to Matt and Peter for representing the B`ham County FA vs. Cheshire County F.A. last weekend.

An ecstatic Boldmere Coach Paul Casey described Monday night’s result against unbeaten Stone Dominoes as the best in his five seasons associated with the `Mikes` youth team. He said.” When my team plays like that for 90 minutes I do believe we are as good as any of the 54 other teams in the Floodlit League.” He added “Now that we have got everyone fit and they understand the system, we have become a very tough side to score against. We have also started finding the net. Things are looking good as we have scored 14 goals in the last three games.” Giving credit to Stone Dominoes he said, “They could have scored early in the game but keeper Michael Griffin kept our clean sheet in tact as the defence was under a lot of pressure.” Boldmere scored on 19 minutes through Lyndon Weller against the run of play. Coach Casey commented, “You could feel the relief on the pitch as the lads then started to take control of the game half way through the first half. Further goals came from Matt Black (34 mins) and Sean Mann (37 mins) to send the `Mikes` 3-0 up at half time. Stone’s half time intimidation tactics against the `Mikes` kids did not work. Being taunted that they were as a poor team and shouting and banging on the home dressing door as they went out to start the second half only motivated the Boldmere team who went out and added three more goals through Sean Mann (60 mins and 82 mins) and through substitute Chris Goalie on 77 mins. Casey added “If they were trying to intimidate us they have picked on the wrong team. We also could have scored a few more goals. You have to accept that sometimes the best team won. You have to earn the right to win a game from the moment the whistle is blown. You should always show respect to the opposition know matter what the score is. The lads were so wound up at half time from the banging on the door I did not need to give a team talk as there was no way my lads were going to let them get back into this game. So there is a lesson to be learned from last night’s game by both teams. We believed they were a good side but they showed us no respect especially at half time. It cost them although I knew we had earned it. In conclusion Coach Casey said, “I wish Stone all the best for the season. I do believe they will win their league as they have some great young players. Last night was our night . No player deserves a special mention as my whole squad were fantastic.

Paul Casey commented after reading the news of the FA Youth cup on theFA.com. “It is a pity that the Director of Football of Stone Dominoes should complain on the FA website that he had nine players injured or recovering from playing last weekend as an excuse for losing the game to Boldmere.” It is a disappointment that they still cannot give us any credit at all. I know that most of the team that I watched beat Stourbridge in the last round of the FA Cup, played last night. For the record Boldmere’s Matt Black and Peter Gould played for the Birmingham County Football Association last Saturday. Three of my other lads and Michael Griffin (Goalkeeper) played for our Reserves on Saturday too. He added, “I appreciate that it is not a nice thing to lose a game you think you should win at a `canter`. I know, I have been there as a Coach and a player for Boldmere St. Michaels. I have lost many including seeing the Boldmere youth team being relegated two seasons ago. Some times you just have to give credit to the opposition. I wonder if Dale Belford of Atherstone Town Youth moaned last week when they lost to Stone on penalties. That they had just lost their best player and Captain Tom Browett to Hinckley United? I do not think so. If we don't win the next round I still will not forget last night’s game for a long time.” In conclusion he said, “According to some people it seems we are not a good side at all. We must of been Very-Very lucky to have won 6-0 last night. We have Staffs. County fixtures to thank for the result not my team-I think not. We have sent a message out to the rest of the league of our intentions-we ARE a good team. Ask Burton Albion who we can back from 3-1 to win 5-3.

As per my telephone conversation to Mark (editor: Mark Jackson) last night regarding the piece on thefa.com our media friends missed out the following stated by myself. "Boldmere were the best team on the night, we had no answer for the two wingers they had. They have a great set of lads their and we wish them all the best for their cup run and league season" We have contacted the media group to request the full interview be added not just the bit they wish to use. Hope this clarifies the situation. Adam Smallman

"I have received two complimentary emails from the Manager and the Coaches at Stone Dominoes. They have given a balanced view of their review of the game between the Youth teams last Monday evening. They were keen to set the record straight after a resume of the game was posted on another website by a person not associated with either clubs. The way the report was written and made public has caused upsets at both football club and should be consigned to the rubbish bin." "Apologies have been given and accepted to everyone concerned. The true fact that remains that anyone who was at Church Road Boldmere on Monday evening witnessed a great game of football played the right way with both sets of players respecting each others abilities." "The result really has no meaning now as it’s gone and we must look forward to our next fixtures as both clubs look to win their respective leagues this season. " "The development of Boldmere players is our main objective. I was delighted to see one of my players Peter Gould who played against Stone, made his 1st team debut playing the full 90 minutes the following day at Oldbury United." It has been a fantastic week for me as a Coach at Boldmere St. Michael Football Club. I have seen two Boldmere players represent the Birmingham County F.A. I have seen the best youth team performance in my five years here managing that age group. I have seem FIVE former Boldmere youth players who, I have mentored over the last few seasons, all play in the Boldmere 1st team at Oldbury United in midweek which makes me feel very proud.

Boldmere youth team coach Paul Casey was full of praise for his young charges after the game against Coventry Sphinx on Monday evening. He said, “It was a good hard working performance. It shows we can compete even with the strongest teams.” Out of respect to the Boldmere team, Coventry Sphinx changed their team formation to deal with Boldmere threat-especially from down the flanks. Kieran Robinson came on as a substitute in the second half scoring on 66 minutes but the visitors then took control of the game to equalise with five minutes to go and could have won the game. Coach Casey added, “Peter Gould and Michael Griffin kept us in the game with faultless performances. If it was not for them we would have lost the game.” He was happy with the share of the points against, in his opinion, the best team his team has played so far. He added, “Our Divisional fixtures are already a third of the way through. The teams in it are well organised. They have quality players making it a very competitive Division. Some teams from the Premier Division of the M.F.Y.L. have lost to teams from our section. Coach Casey believes the winner of the Eastern Division could come from Atherstone Town, Coventry Sphinx or Rugby Town. Boldmere now unbeaten in 8 games are not too far behind. In conclusion Paul is delighted with how the season is progressing. The attendances at Church Road for the youth team games are averaging at around 100 which are currently better than the first team. He thanks the parents for their continued support home and away.

Please have a look at the black and white photo of a Boldmere YOUTH team from a bygone era in `Photo Gallery` If you know anything about it please email Mike Talbot-Webmaster- on themikesnewsletter1@yahoo.co.uk as he is researching it for an article.

Ross joined the `Mikes` Youth team as Assistant Coach to Paul Casey in June 2006 and has been helping to nurture this season’s youngsters. His coaching philosophy has always been to have fun especially having worked with players at `Sportsco` and Sutton Town. However the `bar has been raised` at Boldmere to develop the current crop of under 18`s to play at Reserves level and eventually for the first team. He believes now that they need to work hard and be committed. His advice is to reach your goals in life by working hard and taking on advice given. Youth Development is important for him. He said, “Without it the game would come to a standstill. As a country we are slowly catching up with our European and American counterparts. He recalls, “When I was 11 years old and first playing, to have qualified coaches was unthinkable.” As a modern day Football Coach Ross embraces the F.A. mission statement to have Learning and Development. He said, “Two players in the Youth team have completed their first Coaching badges which is fantastic. We are generating the next generation of coaches as young as 16 years old. Personally I never considered taking the courses and exams to be a referee until two years ago. By going on the courses I knew that it would benefit me as a coach. I know about the laws of the game fully. For me to learn as much as you can makes you a better player/Coach and eventually a Manager. My aim is to get to the top. I have worked and I am still working with some fantastic coaches. His influences are from his family especially his Scottish born Mother. He also cannot praise the Birmingham County FA high enough. He said, “Their courses are well run. Tutors like Ian Weaving are approachable and straight to the point in their advice.”

Boldmere St. Michael’s youth team Coach Paul Casey thought that he had seen it all in his relatively short coaching career. Last season he coached a `Mikes` youth team to the Birmingham County FA Cup Final and runners up spot in the Midland Floodlit Youth league. However the Uefa `B` holder witnessed his young charges win against a strong Malvern Town last night (Thursday) to go through to the 1st Round proper of the F.A. Youth Cup where they will travel to test their skills against the youth team of Coca Cola Football League side Lincoln City F.C. Casey who played for Boldmere in the 1990`s comes from a footballing family. His own father Neil played for the `Mikes` Youth team who went to Dusseldorf, Germany in 1961 to play in a tournament. Coach Casey is the nephew of Non-League Legend Kim Casey. Paul has moulded a team of lads all under 18 years old predominantly from the North side of Birmingham into a fit, well organised and disciplined team. Lastly and most importantly he, ably assisted by Ross Thorpe, has coached them so well that Birmingham City and Watford has sent scouts down to watch them play. In an era where Premiership clubs look into Europe to buy ready made stars Coaches like Casey are developing British youngsters at grass roots level and inspiring them to play at the highest level they can achieve. Already he has developed players who have played for Boldmere`s 1st team. Casey email address is: paulkc@btinternet.com His mobile number is: 07944-822670.

Youth team coach Paul Casey saw his team step up to another level in their win over Malvern Town. He said, “Although we won on penalties I believe the first half we gave them a football lesson. My team, who enjoyed the game, dominate the first 45 minutes and deserved all due credit. My team surely is now one of the best of the 54 teams in the Midland Floodlit Youth League.” Malvern Town had been unbeaten all season and were on a high when they approach the game. He added, “It was easily the best football we had played all season. I hoped that the half would not finish. We went in 1-0 up through Kieran Robinson who could have scored a hat-trick. The game should have been won by half time but we keep missing chances. We had to battle on for another 105 minutes however they worked their `socks off`. They know now why I ensure that they were super fit so they can play the extra time. Footballer’s brains are only programmed to play 90 minutes” He added,”Malvern to their credit must have had `a kick up the backside` from their Manager at half time as they never touched the ball in that first 45 minutes. In the second half they dominated the game, scoring early, and could have scored more goals. Both sides pressurised for the winner but it went to extra time and penalties. Boldmere keeper Michael Griffin saved two of the penalties in the `shoot out` and the lads went barmy as we booked an away tie at Lincoln City F.C.” Coach Casey sends a `speedy recovery` message to Boldmere`s Dan Woods and the Malvern player who had to go to hospital to have stitches inserted after a clash of heads. He added, “Michael Griffin saved two of the penalties in the `shoot out` and the lads went barmy as we booked an away tie at Lincoln City F.C. in the 1st round proper.” Coach Casey praised substitutes; goalkeeper Guy Jones and Luke Bradley who did not manage to play any part of the game but were ready and willing if they were required. He added, “We beat a great side who will probably win their Division in the League. He praise the hospitality shown and wished Malvern Town F.C. all the very best for the rest of the season. He commented “Their team will be hard to beat.”

As a special feature ahead of the F.A. Youth cup-tie Lincoln City on Monday 8th October we introduce talented youth team keeper Michael Griffin. He has already played for the Reserves this season as well as being on `duty` with the first team squad. “Michael, could you give me some words to describe yourself?” “I am laid back and relaxed” “What music do you play in your car when your travel to training and matches?” “Hip Hop!!” “Who is the more famous person you have met? “ “It has to be Peter Bonetti the former Chelsea and England goalkeeper. I meet him quite a lot through the Goalkeeping training that I do. He has settled in Sutton Coldfield. One of his children is based at the school where I coach.” “Who is the loudest Manager in the dressing room?” “For me it has to be Dave Wright our joint -Reserve team Manager..” “What is the best advice you have had?” “Catch everything you possibly can.” “Which TV football pundit makes you cringe? “ “Ex-Villa and England Manager Graham Taylor.” “So which pundit do you really listen to? “ “The Current Aston Villa Manager-Martin O’Neill” “Which famous people would you have round for a dinner party? “ “The whole Aston Villa 1st team squad!!!”

Lincoln City play in the North East conference of the `Puma` Youth Alliance. In indication of their regular opposition is that the other teams in their league are: Rotherham united Hull City Scunthorpe United Grimsby Town Doncaster Rovers Bradford City Hartlepool United Darlington Mansfield Chesterfield York City Boston United

Boldmere’s youth team has had an impressive history in the F.A. Youth Cup. They have taken on the youth teams of professional clubs like Tottenham, Manchester City and Southend United. Ironically the youth team can trace its origins all the way back to 1883. Not many clubs at our level can claim such a rich history. The sad thing is that unless we preserve what we have then it is lost for the football generations to come. Being tasked to look into the archives, I have concentrated on 6th December 1994. The young `Mikes` had drawn Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane in the F.A. Youth Cup. The `Mikes` team progressed through to the Second Round after beating Oldbury United 4-2, Bilston 3-0, Nuneaton Borough 2-1 and Cambridge City 2-1. The Coach of the `Mikes` at the time was Eric Farndon. He was nicknamed `The Viking` a nickname he enjoyed using. He was a formidable character that would strike fear into the hearts of his own players but he got the best out of that team. In this era of political correctness qualified coaches like Paul Casey would shake his head at his `Sergeant Major` methods. At 10am, on the morning of the match Eric had called the squad in for a light training session at Boldmere. He described how morale was high as they changed in their best `bib and tucker`. I know Coach Casey would now have them all in club tracksuits. The coach arrived at 1pm and the team piled on. They arrived at their rest `The Forte Crest` for their pre-match meal of beans on toast. Afterwards the youth players retired to relax in the hotel foyer, where Eric thought there would be a mental preparation for the game. However he heard the sounds of laughter and discovered a `card school` in progress with a fair bit of money in the kitty. Making the short trip to the Spurs ground- disaster happened. The coach was expected to get to White Hart Lane for 6pm but it got lost in the London traffic and did not arrive until 10 minutes before kick off? Eric’s dynamic team talk and preparation went out the window as the team had to get changed. That had an adverse effect as the banter had to be set aside. The game was going to be a hard one. It proved exactly that. The `Mikes` lads lost 10-0. Eric was full of praise in his article in a subsequent Boldmere programme. He wrote, “We found that Tottenham were much too strong for us. All credit to the lads. They never dropped their heads and kept battling to the end. Praise went to the Boldmere Supporters who went down to the team. The Spurs teams had Stephen Carr (15-16 years) who now plays for Newcastle Utd in the Premiership and for the Republic of Ireland. Steve Clemence (16) played for Spurs first team and now plays for Birmingham City. In the Boldmere team was Simon Webbe who is now a `Pop Star` and former member of Boy Band –“Blue.” Thanks to Mark Jackson for the information on Simon Webbe. Praise was heaped on the Youth team. Alan Parsons, Manager of the 1st team at that time wrote, “I would like to place on record my personal congratulations to the youngsters for reaching that stage of the F.A. Cup. It may well be the highlight of their football careers, but from a club point of view, I hope it is the catalyst to them wanting to progress.” Keith Fielding as editor of the subsequent match day programme vs. Pershore Town on 10th December 1994 wrote, “I would like to congratulate all the youngsters on their behaviour and dress on the day. Despite the result, which in my opinion is immaterial, they were a credit to the club and we are proud of them.” He praised `Spurs` for their hospitality to the Boldmere team and officials. Lets hope that this new generation of the `Mikes` team can emulate the class of 1994.

Boldmere`s youth team Manager Paul Casey was proud and full of praise for the team as he reflected on the game at Lincoln City. He said, “My players acted professionally from the moment we left Boldmere to the moment we arrived home.” From the moment the whistle was blown on a superb playing surface, the Boldmere players worked hard. Casey said, “We had a couple of half chances early on in the first half. We did our best to contain the young professionals from Lincoln City. They may be a very young side but they were very strong. They proved to be, by far, the best team we have played this season. We would not have scored even if we had played on till Christmas.” He added, “I have to say my players got a shock from the pace that the Lincoln City players showed early on in the game. We never really got going. We were constantly under pressure. I do believe my players understand now why they are not playing at a professional club. The skills levels of these Lincoln City youngsters were superb. The difference between the teams was (a) their 1st touch was fantastic. (b) They were stronger than my team and (c) their movement on and off the ball was amazing. Top be fair my lads did their best and proved to be just as fit as them. However we were not as sharp. All in all we were not allowed to play and Lincoln dominated the game from start to finish. In conclusion Paul Casey and Ross Thorpe thanked all the parents for travelling to support the team. There is no doubt they did their best on the day and everyone will be proud of them. The `Mikes` youth team now look forward to their next game which kicks off at 7.30pm on Monday 13th November at home to Nuneaton Griff.

The `Mikes` youth team had a `hangover` after their F.A. Cup game against Lincoln City. It took them to the end of extra time to finally beat a spirited Nuneaton Griff team in the Birmingham Midland Youth Cup. Manager Paul Casey gambled making six changes to the Boldmere team. He said, “It was an opportunity for the fringe players in the squad to show me how good they were against a team who had not won a league game this season. However Nuneaton Griff came with a game plan and it nearly worked. We scored late in the game (88th minute) to make it 1-1 and take it in to extra time. It was a hard fought game.” The Boldmere team had the chance to have won this cup-tie won by half time. However Nuneaton Griff, showing great spirit, scored a fantastic goal to go ahead. In the end Boldmere`s fitness showed through in extra time to run out winners to progress into the next round of the competition. Coach Casey added “It was a good game of football for the spectators to watch. However there were so many chances missed by ourselves that we started snatching at chances. I was worried that the Lincoln game had affected us and I was right. We got the win but we did not play that well.”

Boldmere`s Youth team Manager Paul Casey has completed his staff by appointing a new Assistant Manager for the remainder of the season. Having acquired Ross Thorpe as Coach at the start of this campaign he has appointed Mark Clarke. Clarke is an ex-Boldmere player who played when John Morris was Manager. He has left Redditch United’s successful youth set up to join Boldmere. Paul Casey said about the latest acquisition, “I am pleased he has joined us as I know he has plenty of experience developing young players at this level. He will be involved with the club from Thursday evening’s training session.