Copyright SSH Holdings [24 Oct @ 5:08pm]

MATCH REPORT
16/9/07 Grimsby & Cleethorpes Sunday League Division 8
Clark Construction v Smugglers
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Clark Construction played host to Division 8 rivals Smugglers on a sunny but wind swept Bradley pitch 5. The home side were looking to extend their winning streak to 4 matches; however they were forced yet again to make forced changes from the previous weeks winning side. Genney had to don the keeper’s jersey with Herrett and Bryan coming into the defence and midfield respectively.

Clarks kicked off into a strong southerly wind and combined with a tight pitch meant the ball had to be kept on the ground. For the first time this season Clarks were quick into their rhythm and it didn’t take them long to convert their dominance into an early goal. Inevitably it was Pete Fuller who grabbed his eighth goal of the season after finishing a fine one touch move involving Carroll and Stevens from the heart of midfield. The 2nd was not long in coming; sustained Clark’s pressure resulted in a corner, from which Carroll arrived late into the box to direct his volley through a sea of players into the back of the net.

At this stage of the game Clarks superiority was evident to all those watching, however their lack of an established keeper was there undoing in gifting Smugglers a goal. Ironically for the stand in keeper Genney, whose handling throughout the game was exceptional it was a failed clearance by the centre half which resulted in the ball falling to a Smugglers forward who was able to roll it into an empty net. However this did not alter the course of the play as Clarks went on to produce their finest football of the entire season with the third goal. The move which resulted in Fuller arrowing a fierce shot past the helpless keeper was put together swifter than the wind whistling down pitch 5. It started with Clarke at right back picking up the ball deep in his own half; he set off on an overlap run after he played the ball up to Roberts. The midfielder held onto the ball then timely released it back into the stride of Clarke, and quicker than you can say “el nino” the full back blew past his opposing player and laid the ball onto Fuller whose finish was a fitting finale for a move which could have come straight out of South America.

The first period of the second half saw Clarks pick up from where they left off, as Carroll bagged his second from another corner before being replaced by his brother Johnny. The irrepressible Fuller took his seasons goal tally to 13 with another four goals; the best being a turn and shot in one movement from the edge of the box. Tom Bryan from left wing also fortuitously got his name on the goal sheet, poking home from close range after he capitalised on some not so convincing handling from the Smugglers keeper.

To their credit Smugglers never gave up during the entire game and played with good humour and spirit throughout to which they received a scant reward of a well taken second goal. Man of the match for Clarks was Niland who after starting his second game up front linked up play between midfield and attack very well.

The final score was 9-2; with this being Clarks most complete football performance of the entire season. It looks as though this team formed back in July is only just starting to gel. Much sterner tests lie in wait over the coming weeks and months, but the boxing cliché of “you can only beat what is put in front of you” must be applied, but after their first game blip Clarks are doing just that.

MATCH REPORT
23/9/07 Junior Challenge Cup Round 1
GB Terminals v Clark Construction FC
Venue: Bradley Pitches

GB Terminals entertained fellow Division 8 rivals Clark Construction in the 1st round of the Junior Challenge Cup at Bradley pitches. Taking account of recent good results and form Clarks went into the game against the basement side full of confidence.

For the second consectative week a strong wind blew down the Bradley pitch with GB Terminals kicking off with this advantage. The home team showed they were not just going to lie down and showed early promise by winning some 50-50’s in midfield and then playing speculative forward balls, although these were comfortably dealt with by Genney and Wilkes at the fulcrum of Clarks defence.

Clarks eased their way into the game with some fine passing from midfield, but the final ball and decisive run was missing. Clarks eventually did go on to create some chances with Stevens low drive being parried by the GB keeper and Bryan placing his shot tamely wide after finally choosing which foot he was going to shoot with.

Clarks took the lead after Jonathon Carroll sniffed out an opportunity inside the GB terminals box. Sensing the opposing defenders would not deal with an innocuous ball over the top; the striker was quickly onto it and poked the ball past the on rushing keeper.

After the goal Clarks play became surprisingly ragged with the midfield quartet of Bryan, Stevens, Carroll and Roberts all guilty of standing off the opposition. The home team sensed this opportunity and quickly gained confidence which resulted in more possession than Clarks would have ideally liked. Despite this Clarks went on to create further chances with Johnny Carroll skewing an effort wide after being put through and Luke Niland smashed the ball against the post after creating his own opportunity wide from the right.

It is fair to say GB Terminals deserved their equaliser which resulted from a mix up in the heart of Clarks defence. It began with a simple ball over the top which should have been initially dealt with by Dickinson in goal and then by Wilkes. However with neither taking responsibility, Kevin Paulie for GB Terminals nipped in and placed a well executed lob over the goalkeeper and into the net.

The second half saw Clarks playing with the wind, but this advantage still did not improve their overall performance. GB Terminals continued to compete well but unfortunately they was just missing that extra bit of quality in the final third and relied mainly on Clark mistakes for opportunities. Their resistance eventually began to wane and Clarks regained the lead through Niland who was quick to react in the box and place a rebounded shot past the keeper. Mark Carroll was called upon to put some breathing space between the teams, after bursting into the penalty area, his initial shot was blocked but the Clarks skipper was quicker to react than anybody else and stabbed the loose ball home.

Five minutes from time some of GB Terminals supporters thought they had got one back after the ball nestled in the back of the net, but unfortunately for them the ball from a second strike went through the side netting after Dickson had saved well from an earlier effort to keep the scores at 3 -1.

Both teams should take positives out of the game, GB Terminals must be encouraged that if they can take the attitude showed in this game their first win will not be far away. Clarks should be satisfied that even though their overall team performance was poor they still won. Man of the match for Clarks was James Clarke at right back who made some timely interceptions at the back and was a threat going forward.

02/09/07
St James School
Inkworks FC 0 – Clark Construction 2

On an overcast morning Inkworks played host to Clark Construction at St James School. For the second week running Clarks had to play in a match without a recognised referee, but Eddie Clark admirably filled the void once again with impartial authority.

Clarks kicked off towards the Bargate end and soon started to control the game with Stevens and Niland dictating play in midfield. The first chances fell to Clark Construction’s Fuller and Mark Carroll with the former particularly guilty of pushing a shot wide after being put through one and one. Inkworks troubled Clarks with a couple of long balls through the middle but these were generally mopped up by Dickinson in goal. Fuller was once again involved on the edge of the Inkworks box which saw his half volley beat Hanrahan in goal and cannon down off the bar. Midway through the first half Clarks put together an excellent move with the Carroll brothers combining on the right wing, the ball made its way centrally to Stevens who sprayed the ball to the left hand side for Bryan, his cut back found it’s way to Niland whose first time shot from the 18 yard line was blocked for Inkworks by the on rushing Potterton. Clark’s slight dominance eventually told when Mark Carroll raced through the heart of the Inkworks defence and unerringly placed a low shot pass the helpless Hanrahan into the bottom right hand corner.

After a half time “chat” by Gaffer Herrett Clarks came out intending to kill the game but found a more competitive Inkworks team who started to ask some questions of their own. These were almost always answered by the Clarks defence of Brassington, Genney, Wilkes and Clarke although sometimes they were their own worst enemy with a couple of lackadaisical clearances. Ten minutes into the half Johnny Carroll was just about to start a goal celebration but he was adjudged to be off side after he coolly finished into the far corner. Once again Fuller found himself through on goal but his attempted lob sailed over the bar. However the striker made no mistake with his next and most difficult opportunity of the match, he lashed home a first time volley from the edge of the box into the bottom left hand corner. The last 25 minutes saw the introduction of substitutes from both sides with Clarks bringing on Roberts and Herrett. Both of them had opportunities to increase the score line with the latter particularly unlucky after he received a ball from the left only to see it bobble just before he was about to pull the trigger.

Man of the match for Clarks was Dan Brassington whose faultless and intelligent performance with the ball contributed to the team’s first clean sheet and started many attack. Credit must go to Inkworks whose competitiveness throughout the full 90 minutes was more than a match for Clarks, but the telling and significant difference between the two sides was the away sides extra quality in passing and finishing.







MATCH REPORT
16/9/07 Grimsby & Cleethorpes Sunday League Division 8
Clark Construction v Smugglers
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Clark Construction played host to Division 8 rivals Smugglers on a sunny but wind swept Bradley pitches. The home side were looking to extend their winning streak to 4 matches; however they were forced yet again to make changes from the previous weeks winning side. Genney had to done the keepers jersey with Herrett and Bryan coming into the defence and midfield respectively. Clarks kicked off into the strong southerly wind and combined with the tight pitch meant the ball had to be kept on the ground. For the first time this season Clarks were quick into their rhythm and it didn’t take them long to convert there authority into a goal. Inevitably it was Pete Fuller who grabbed his eighth goal of the season after finishing a fine one touch move involving Carroll and Stevens originating from the heart of midfield. The 2nd was not long in coming; sustained pressure from Clarks resulted in a corner from which Carroll arrived late into the box to direct a volley through a sea of players into the back of the net. At this stage of the game Clarks superiority was evident to all those watching, however their lack of an established keeper was there undoing in gifting Smugglers a goal. Ironically for the stand in keeper Genney his handling throughout the game was exceptional but a failed clearance by the centre half resulted in the ball falling to a Smugglers forward who then was able to roll it into an empty net. However this did not alter the course of the play as Clarks went on to produce their finest football of the entire season with their third goal. The move which resulted in Fuller arrowing a fierce shot past the helpless keeper was even swifter than the wind whistling down pitch 5. It started with Clarke at right back picking up the ball deep in his own half; he set off on an overlap run after he played the ball up to Stevens. The midfielder held onto the ball before then timely released it back into the stride of Stevens, and before you can say “el ninio” the fullback blew past his opposing player to lay the ball onto Fuller who’s finish was a fitting finale for a move which was straight out of South America.

The first period of the second half saw Clarks pick up from where they left off, as Carroll bagged his second from another corner before being replaced by his brother Johnny. The irrepressible Fuller took his seasons goal tally to 13 with another four goals; the best being a turn and shot in one movement from the edge of the box. Tom Bryan from left wing also fortunately got his name on the goal sheet, poking home from close range after he capitalised on some not so convincing handling from the Smugglers keeper.

To their credit Smugglers never gave up during the entire game and played with good humour and spirit throughout to which they received a scant reward of a well taken second goal. Man of the match for Clarks was Niland who after starting his second game up front linked up play between midfield and attack very well.

The final score was 9-2, with this being Clarks most complete football performance of the season and it looks as though this team formed back in July is just starting to click into place. Much sterner tests lye in wait over the coming weeks and months, but the boxing cliché of “you can only beat what is put in front of you” must be applied and after a first game blip Clarks are doing just that.

MATCH REPORT
7/10/07 Lincolnshire County Cup Round 2
Clark Construction FC v Nettleham FC
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Clark Construction hosted crack Lincoln Division 1 team Nettleham FC at Bradley pitches in the 2nd round of the Lincolnshire County Cup. Clarks were looking to continue their fine domestic form into this competition, but were expecting to be given their toughest test of the season.

A late team change due to player unavailability meant player manager Herrett had to name himself as substitute, even though he was still feeling the effects of a 7 mile training run from the previous afternoon. Other changes included Jonathon Carroll starting up front and Richard Sutherland making his first start since the opening game of the season.

It was clear from the early exchanges Nettleham were a stronger team than most that Clarks have faced this season, therefore the home side would have to muster all of their fitness, self belief and team spirit if they were to reach the 3rd round.

A hamstring injury to left back Dan Brassington after only 10 minutes forced an early change, and because Herrett was the only substitute defender, he reluctantly brought himself on despite still feeling the effect of his exertions from the previous afternoon. Even so, the player manager was instrumental in creating the 1st and finest goal of the match. The ball fell to the replacement left back on the half way line and hearing a call from Jack Stevens he volleyed a 30 yd swerving pass with the outside of his left boot to his team mate. Stevens instantly controlled the ball and cut inside his marker and unleashed an unstoppable dipping curling shot from 35 yards into the top right corner.

However it doesn’t matter about the quality in which you take the lead if you can’t keep it, because immediately Nettleham hit back. Their first goal resulted when a long ball from the back was allowed to bounce over Genney, a Nettleham striker was quickly on to it and managed to slip it past the helpless Dickinson in the Clarks goal.

Both teams seemed evenly matched but Clarks created the better chances, with Tom Bryan bursting down the left wing but his inviting cross failed to be capitalised on and Mark Carroll from midfield made a surging run with the ball through midfield and into the box but eventually got closed down by a mass of Nettleham defenders.

Pete Fuller was a constant thorn in Nettlehams side with his relentless running and excellent hold up play, and unsurprisingly it was himself who regained the lead for Clarks after some fine work from his strike partner Jonathon Carroll.

As with Clarks first goal the reward was immediately undone when a similar ball from Nettlehams midfield found its way to a forward who this time had got goal side of Clarke at right back, this enabled the striker a free run on goal and then equalised for the visitors.

Undaunted by these set backs Clarks continued to ask questions of their loftier opponent’s defensive resolution and once again took the lead through Fuller. The striker, who is in a rich vein of form was quickest to react to a knock down in the Nettleham box and smashed the ball home.

The first 20 minutes of the 2nd half saw Clarks play the best football of the match. Carroll and Stevens were having there finest game yet as a central midfield partnership, with the former making relentless box to box runs and his partner orchestrating Clarks possess ional play. This period of domination resulted in a well deserved 4th goal. Roberts who had earlier replaced Sutherland on the right released Fuller down the wing. The pocket rocket striker turned his marker on receiving the pass and burst down the wing before cutting inside at the by-line, looking up he saw Bryan arriving late at the far post, who received the strikers cross and made no mistake by powering it home.

Herrett found himself in the visitor’s box after another fine move, but as the full back skipped past the final defender with the ball he was blatantly brought down for a penalty, but unfortunately for Clarks the referee did not agree.

Not surprisingly the last 20 minutes of play belonged to Nettleham who continued to try and find a way back into the game. They managed to get a goal back, but the Defence of Clarke, Genney, Wilkes, Herrett and Dickinson in goal worked tirelessly and was never going to grant the visitors that elusive equaliser they were so striving for, with Clarks eventually running out 4-3 winners.

The result illustrates that sometimes in football no matter what your respective league positions are, if one team has a far greater desire and hunger to win than the other, the improbable is always possible. It would be unfair to name a man of the match, but special mention should go to Jonathon Rowley, who after this game never complained of being an unused substitute and his attitude set throughout the season has been a fine example to all.




MATCH REPORT
14/10/07 Grimsby Sunday League
Clark Construction FC v Grimsby Warriors
Venue: Bradley Pitches

With 1st and 2nd playing each other and Clark Construction playing Grimsby Warriors, who are 3rd and 4th respectively in Division 8 of the Grimsby and Cleethorpes Sunday league, the weekend should have proved a good indication of the final placings, but with both matches ending in a draw, questions still remained unanswered.

Clarks were forced to make one change in personnel from the team who won in the Lincs. cup the previous week, with Stephen Roberts coming in for Brassington which meant Tom Bryan had to fill in at left back for the injured defender. Both teams started brightly on a pitch which is a credit to the ground staff at Bradley. The first ten minutes saw both midfields in a tense battle, with particularly Mark Carroll for Clarks at his combative best, but it was the Warriors who created the first couple of chances.

A partial clearance from the Clarks defence fell to an unmarked Warriors attacker on the edge of the 6 yard box. With only Symineski in the Clarks goal to beat, he looked certain to score, but some how the Clarks shot stopper was able to save from point blank range. A similar chance fell to Grimsby Warriors 5 minutes later, but again Symineski was equal to it pulling of another fine save.

Clarks started to create some chances of there own, but unfortunately none were clear cut. Throughout the half Pete Fuller and Johnny Carroll hassled and hustled the Warriors defenders with Fuller having a shot tipped over by the keeper. The best chance of the half for Clarks fell to Mark Carroll who after a good move from the home team blasted over from the edge of the box.

The 2nd half again saw both teams equally compete in all area of the pitch, but eventually Clarks were able to break the deadlock when Captain Carroll slotted home from just inside the box. The goal saw Grimsby Warriors push more and more players forward in search of an equaliser but Clarks still remained dangerous on the counter attack. The Clarks back four had their work cut out to contain the Grimsby Warrior forwards which at times out numbered the defenders.

It looked as though Clarks would see out the match and claim another win, but with only 3 minutes to go disaster struck for the home side. A cross field through ball got behind Herrett who had earlier replaced Roberts, a Grimsby Warrior forward was able to get in between the defender and goal and fire a shot pass the retreating Symineski. This was unfortunate for the Clarks team, but with only seconds to go Mark Carroll had a great chance to win the game but saw his shot from the left agonisingly fly just over the bar.

On reflection Grimsby Warriors deserved their equaliser with a draw being fair result. Both teams competed well and played to a standard which would not look out of place in a much higher division.



MATCH REPORT
21/10/07 Grimsby Sunday League Division 8
FC Locomotive v Clark Construction FC
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Clark Construction bounced back to winning ways against FC Locomotive in Division 8 of the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and district Sunday League. Clarks ran out comfortable 6 – 3 winners at the final whistle but were made to work hard for the three points, especially in the first half.

The game was allocated no official referee therefore an FC locomotive representative was kind and some may say brave enough to take charge. The home side fielded a wealth of experience and started much brighter of the two sides. Eventually Clarks began to take control with the clear instruction from the management team of keeping the ball still ringing in the player’s ears.

Clarks took the lead with a move which could of come from a "Cloughie" text book on how to play the beautiful game. It started deep in their own half with James Clark mopping up a Locomotive attack and then passing the ball into midfield were Mark Carroll and Luke Niland were combining well. The midfield duo eventually worked the ball out to Herrett at left back and that on hearing a shout from Peter Fuller played a first time ball into the feet of the striker. The Clarks leading goal scorer didn’t need any invitation and turned his marker with one touch before striking a low shot into the bottom left corner of the goal.

The lead was short lived though, as from a Locomotive corner a striker crept unmarked and headed the equaliser. Undaunted by this set back Clarks continued to play some good football which resulted in one move breaking down on the edge the home sides box as Jonathon Carroll was fouled. From the resulting free kick Fuller restored the lead when in all honesty the goal keeper should have done better. From this point Clarks needed to exert their authority on the game but were once again pegged back by a hardy Locomotive side after an incise move lead once again to an equaliser.

It looked as though the two sides were heading for the half time break all square, however Clarks were gifted a goal just before the interval when a defensive mix up let in Richard Sutherland to claim his first goal of the season.

During the second period Luke Niland who was having a fine game put Clarks further ahead after his speculative effort from well outside the box was allowed to find the net as keeper let the ball through his finger tips. However FC Locomotive still did not give up and were rewarded with a somewhat controversial penalty which was proficiently dispatched.

The final 15 minutes saw Clark Construction’s effective penetration and superior fitness finally dominate the game. Richard Sutherland grabbed his second goal and Peter Fuller completed another hatrick to make it 6 – 3.

Both sides played some good football throughout the game but Clarks were just too strong for FC Locomotive with the final score being a fair reflection on the difference between the two sides. Man of the match for Clarks was between Peter Fuller and Luke Niland, but the striker just edged it with his three goals.


MATCH REPORT
11/11/07 Grimsby Sunday League Division 8
Clark Construction FC v Cromwell 2nds
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Clark Construction’s hopes of becoming Division 8 champions of the Grimsby, Cleethorpes & District Sunday league took a major blow after they went down 2-1 at home to league leaders Cromwell 2nds.

Cromwell had inflicted the only other defeat during Clarks league and cup campaign right back on the first day of the season, so the Clarks players were determined more than usual to take all 3 points.

This added determination was very evident in the first 15 minutes of the match, as Clarks started much the brighter side and took a strangle hold on the game. The midfield trio, of Niland, Carroll and Brassington were combining well which resulted in some good passages of possession for the home side. Jack Stevens who was playing wide on the right was receiving his fair of possession, which he used to good effect by teasing his opposing full back and delivering some inviting crosses.

This period of dominance resulted in Clarks taking the lead after Stevens won a free kick on the edge of the box. Up stepped Fuller whose low shot managed to find a way through a sea of players and into the net. Clarks were well worth the lead against the league leaders and should of gone on and secured the game, but like so many times this season from a position of superiority they let their opponents back into the game all too easily. Rather than continue to play in the way which was proving so effective, Clarks stopped getting the ball wide and tried to overcomplicate matters and play through the middle.

This change of attacking style suited Cromwell’s wily old defence much better who easily mopped any Clark attack and were now able to instigate some offensive moves of their own. The eventual equaliser came from an innocuous position close to Clark’s left corner flag. Tom Bryan at full back gave his opponent too much room which enabled the forward to loop the ball high over the Clarks penalty area. It then kindly fell straight to the feet of a Cromwell striker who made no mistake from close range.

For the remaining 70 minutes, the game became very tight, with the majority of play restricted to the midfield areas. This deadlock was briefly punctuated by a speculative long range effort from Fuller which hit cannoned off the bar and ultimately Cromwell’s winner.

In the preceding moments leading up to the goal, the skies darkened and the wind picked up briefly. This ominous change of atmosphere some how coincided with Clarks losing their defensive composure. Previously, clearances which were easily reaching the half way line now struggled to get out the penalty area. One such clearance fell to a Cromwell forward just outside the box, and he mercifully hit a low drive which the impressive Goodrum in Clark’s goal could do nothing about.

To their credit Clarks never gave up and pressed for the equaliser but never really opened up the impressive Cromwell back line that in the end were well worth the points. The Clarks players had only themselves to blame for the defeat, especially after getting in such a commanding position early in the first half. This game goes to prove that to be successful at any level of football a team must be able to first and foremost carry out the most fundamental parts of the game, which are passing, tackling and heading. Cromwell plainly expressed why they are top of this league, while not being the most flash of teams; they were able to effectively demonstrate these attributes. This approach will nearly always prove more effective than to continually turn and run with the ball, play the harder pass and shoot from stupid positions, which Clarks attacking players were all equally guilty of. Man of the Match for Clarks was Rob Genney who did make his tackles, head the ball and just pass it simply.


MATCH REPORT
9/12/07 Lincolnshire Sunday Cup Round 4
Clark Construction FC v Police
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Clark Construction ran out convincing 9-0 winners against 3rd Division Police in the 4th round of the Lincolnshire Sunday Cup. The result may be a shock to most observers but it did not surprise those who are involved in this newly established Division 8 outfit. Throughout this season Clarks have only shown glimpses of what they are capable of in games, but this was the first time the potential came to fruition for a full 90 minutes.

For the first 10 minutes the Police had to play with 10 men, which obviously handed Clarks the early initiative. During this opening period the home side created some good chances but found the Police keeper in outstanding form.

Ironically, it wasn’t until after the police introduced their 11th player that Clarks took the lead through a simple but beautifully worked goal scored by Fuller. The move began with Mark Carroll winning the ball from the opposition in the centre of midfield. Clarks Captain then sprayed it wide for Jack Stevens to race onto down the right. The winger then delivered a fine cross for Clarks leading marksman to score with flying header.

In response to going one down the police looked to push more players forward, but found the Clarks defence marshalled by Genney and Wilkes in fine form. The remainder of the half saw Clarks looking comfortable in defence and dangerous on the break.

This season Clarks have been guilty on numerous occasions of not killing sides off after attaining a dominant position in the game. However, Clarks set about the second period in utterly ruthless mood which was instigated by their Captain Mark Carroll. Just two minutes into the half the skipper threw himself into a challenge and came away with the ball. He immediately released Fuller who rounded the keeper and then made no mistake with his finish. Carroll himself made it 3 and sealed the game for Clarks, when again he thunderously won the ball in midfield before playing a one two and clinically slotting home from close range.

Fuller went on to score another 5, the highlight of which was superbly created by Jonathon Rowley on the left wing. Richard Sutherland was also rewarded with a goal after providing an excellent foil for his free scoring strike partner.

The result was a timely tonic for the Clarks boys, who in all honesty have not been playing to their full potential in recent weeks. This was a complete performance, with every team member making a significant contribution, but it was Mark Carroll who claimed the man of the match accolade as he was the fulcrum and main instigator of everything which was good about the performance.


MATCH REPORT
6/1/08 Lincolnshire Sunday Cup Round 5
Hainton Saab v Clark Construction FC
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Division 2 leaders Hainton Saab entertained Division 8 outfit Clark Construction in the 5th round of the Lincolnshire Sunday Cup. The match turned out to be a Bradley classic, it was packed full of incident, controversy and completely enthralling throughout.

Clarks were unfortunately missing 3 regular first team players and to compound matters were only able to name 1 substitute, who could only be called upon through an injury as the sub himself was suffering from a broken wrist. Player manager Herrett made his first start for 8 weeks and filled in at centre back and he was also forced to make a change in formation with Pete Fuller having to plough a lone furrow up front.

The game started with Hainton kicking south towards the low sun above Bradley woods which would impair both teams vision throughout the match. Probably to be expected from both sides’ respective league positions Saab started the stronger and had the early share of possession. The home side looked to unlock the Clarks defence with Peck dictating some neat passing in midfield and particularly down the right side with the dangerous Wilkinson. However it was clear that the Clarks defence would not just roll over and be easy prey for the Saab predators and restricted their opponents to a few chances within the first 15 minutes.

The Clarks midfield eventual came into the game and started to impose themselves more, they were lead by Mark Carroll who bravely competed any 50-50 and was assisted by his brother Jonathon and Richard Sutherland who were running themselves into the ground by closing down at every given opportunity. Clarks weathered the early Saab storm and started becoming an attacking force of their own, with particularly Jack Stevens on the right wing looking dangerous by carrying the ball with intelligence and good effect.

Clarks were first to get on the score sheet when a combination of an onrushing Peter Fuller and low Sun caused panic in the Saab’s defence who didn’t effectively clear a through ball, this eventually bounced at the strikers feet which he neatly lobbed the stranded Gilliat in goal.

This goal certainly gave all the Saab players an extra sense of urgency and if it wasn’t clear before the goal it was certainly clear now that they was up against an organised and committed opposition. It didn’t take them long to equalise as a long ball was only half cleared by the Clarks defence and the ball kindly fell to a Saab player who made no mistake from inside the area.

Five minutes after this Saab took the lead through a well worked corner. One of their players pealed off the near post to cutely flick the ball on to an unmarked forward who side footed a volley past the rooted Mroczkowski. Not long after many of the Saab players and observers would probably of thought the game was won when they made it 3-1, again from a shot inside the box. However Clarks still looked dangerous on the break and continued to give Saab few opportunities when defending and hoped to capitalize at any opportunity. The division 8 outfit got their reward right on the stroke of half time when again Fuller was allowed time and room to manoeuvre himself and the ball around the Saab defence and Gilliat in goal and place it into the empty net.

The 2nd half started with the pattern of play remaining the same with Saab controlling possession and Clarks relying on the counter attack. A very controversial incident occurred after a Clarks attack lead to a corner which was taken by Jack Stevens. The out swinging cross was met by Jamie Wilkes who thundered a header through a mass of players from outside the 6 yard box. The ball appeared to clearly cross the line before a Saab defender managed to head it away. However Mick Hill the referee who was having a fine game up to this point blew his whistle and signalled for a penalty kick. He also gestured that he was about to send the Saab player off for what would appear to be hand ball. After remonstrations by players from both sides and to the astonishment of the Clarks players he changed his decision and gave Saab a free kick.

It took the Clarks team a few minutes to get over this bizarre incident and in doing so allowed Saab a couple of chances to increase their lead. Clarks eventually picked themselves up and feeding of the apparent injustice started to put together some good moves, and one such move lead to Jack Stevens being played in who was to expertly slot home from a tight angle.

The game being even now ebbed and flowed with both teams having efforts cleared of the line, Fuller for Clarks was guilty of failing to capitalize when he was put through one on one by Carroll. However it appeared he had made amends when he was up rooted in the box and won a penalty. The striker stepped up to put Clarks in the lead, but with only 10 minutes left another twist was to befell this epic encounter and his strike was easily saved by Gilliat in goal.

The game rolled into extra time with the first 15 minutes seeing a Saab forward go close when his snap shot from the edge of the box was excellently saved by Mroczkowski. Richard Sutherland had a chance to put Clarks ahead but probably through tired legs just couldn’t get enough pace on the ball when presented with an the unattended goal from outside the area and a Saab defender was able to run back and clear.

On entering the second period the Saab management freshened up the playing staff by bringing on their remaining substitute. Meanwhile Clarks didn’t have that luxury and had to battle on with those same eleven who started the match which would ultimately be their undoing. As from the next corner through a lack of concentration a Saab forward was allowed to freely win a header and score. Their didn’t see a way back for Clarks after that as most of the players were now feeling the full effects from 110 minutes of a hard fought football match. The result looked as though it was confirmed after Saab converted a penalty after the outstanding Jamie Wilkes brought down a player in the box.

Most observers now were waiting for the final whistle; however this epic match still had a final twist as unbelievably Clarks demonstrated their never say die attitude by managing to get a goal back through Pete Fuller. This then lead to a frantic final 2 minutes for the Saab defence as the Clarks players piled forward to try and score and send the tie to penalties, but unfortunately for the away side Mick Hill blew for time.

The game was credit to both teams, it was a competitive encounter which was played in a good spirit and a fine example of the strength in depth of the Grimsby Sunday League.




















MATCH REPORT
3/2/08
Clark Construction FC v Grange Crowland
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Clark Construction kept their faint title hopes alive and in doing so severely dented Grange Crowlands attempt to lift the Division 8 crown of the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District Sunday League, after running out 3 – 2 winners at Bradley.

The Clarks management decided before kick off that in the event of winning the toss they would elect to play into the strong wind which was driving down pitch 9.

The game started after skipper Mark Carroll did win the toss and put the plan in motion. However questions must have been raised about the wisdom of the decision, as Clark’s backline of Herrett, Genney, Wilkes and Brassington were immediately buffeted by the wind assisted Crowland attacks. For the first 20 minutes they held firm and were ably assisted by Sutherland’s faultless handling who once again unselfishly volunteered to stand between the sticks.

In open play Clarks never really looked like conceding a goal even taking account of the conditions, and were even able to put some moves together of their own, in which for a better final ball may have created some real goal scoring opportunities. The defending from set pieces was altogether a different proposition as the wind made it hard to judge the ball flight and all the time push it ever closer to the Clarks goal.

Grange wasted a couple of earlier opportunities from free kicks, but took the lead when the ball was struck from 25 yds. out and sweetly nestled in the top right hand corner of the Sutherlands goal.

Clarks tried to keep their composure after going one down but found it increasingly difficult to put any passing move together, and had to be resigned to the fact, that for much of the half they would have to defend. They conceded a second when some slack defending from a corner lead to a Crowland player firing in unimpeded from close range.

Grange went in at half time 2 – 0 up, but must of wondered if it was going to be enough, especially as Clarks started the second period in determined fashion and confident in their ability to turn things around with some assistance from the wind of course.

From the moment the ball left the centre circle they immediately went about their opponents, it was now Mark Carroll & Luke Nilands turn to control the midfield and generate some attacking pressure. Stephen Roberts who was playing alongside Peter Fuller, linked up play well between the midfield duo and Clarks leading marks man with some “Torpey” style flicks!

The game rolled on well into the second half with Clarks laying siege just outside the Crowland box without really breaching the away side’s gallant defence. The Clarks management were now really starting to question the judgment of their earlier decision, but it was left to Captain Mark Carroll to show the way and kick start their come back after he released an unstoppable missile of a shot from 30 yards which exploded in the back of Crowlands net.

Clarks cranked up the pressure even more after the goal and Crowlands were beginning to feel it. This was plain to see in the run up to Clarks second, when a curling shot from Fuller from just outside the box beat the keeper, but at the last moment was unlawfully tipped over by a Crowlands defender. The result of the action some may say was inevitable as the offending player was shown the red card and Fuller made no mistake from the spot.

Now playing with ten men Grange clung on vehemently and even created a couple brief openings as their little right winger proved a constant threat. But just as many observers thought the teams would share the points up stepped Peter Fuller to administer the final and telling blow to Crowlands resistance.

With only 4 minutes left some good play on the left by Tom Bryan resulted in the ball ending up at the striker’s feet just outside the box. With some clever footwork Fuller managed to create half a yard on his dogged defender, but that’s all he required to side foot the ball and pass it into the bottom right hand corner of the goal.

Jubilation swept the Clarks ranks but they still had to defend a last minute corner from Crowland but this petered out to nothing and ultimately Clarks took all 3 points.

The wind played a major part in this game and made it difficult for any real football to be played, but Clarks probably deserved the points by coping better when having to defend against it. Both teams are still in with a shout of the championship and will wait to pounce on any slip up by League Leaders Cromwell 2nds.


MATCH REPORT
9/3/08 Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District Sunday
League Division 8
Clark Construction FC v GRS Taveners
Venue: Bradley Pitches

It took Clark Construction 55 minutes to eventually take control of their match against GRS Taveners in Division 8 of the Grimsby and District Sunday League. In the end the home sides superior fitness levels and self belief proved too much for a gallant Taveners side with Clarks running out 6 – 3 winners.

The first half saw Taveners take the game to Clarks which at times was played at a frantic tempo. Clarks failed to clear a ball from the edge of their own box and Taveners took the lead when Long nipped in finish well. Clarks equalised not long after through Carroll, but any thoughts of an easy win from the home side were quickly dashed as yet again Taveners took the lead through the impressive Long. The forward showed Clarks centre half Wilkes a clean pair of heals and with no covering defender to be seen the Taveners forward raced in on the Clarks goal from the left and coolly slotted past the despairing Sutherland.

Clarks not for the fist time this season were rescued by Pete Fuller who latched onto a pass just inside the right hand side of Taveners box and unleashed an unstoppable shot which flew just inside the near post of Taveners goal. The team from Nunsthorpe were not finished yet and went into half time in the lead after scoring from a corner.

The first 10 minutes of the second half saw neither team create any real chances or take control. On the hour both managers made their first changes with Herrett bringing himself on to replace the ever willing Hollyoak in midfield. Not long after the interruption Clarks equalised through Mark Carroll, and this time from the re-start the home side took the game by the scruff of the neck and started playing the ball around their opponents and not through them.

Stevens and Bryan down the flanks for Clarks were getting on the ball much more and delivering some threatening passes into the Clarks forwards. Mark Carroll found himself in the area and put Clarks ahead for the first time in the game and not long after his brother Jonathon scored putting further daylight between the teams.

Pete Fuller capped of a good display of forward play when he made it six for Clarks after he rounded his maker and lobbed the goalkeeper from an acute angle.

In the end Clarks did enough and deserved to win the game, but it illustrated that especially in Division 8 no game can be took for granted between any side, as especially this year it’s proving to be a stronger than average league.


MATCH REPORT
20/4/08 Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District Sunday
League Division 8
Clark Construction FC v FC Locomotive
Venue: Bradley Pitches

Clark Construction edged a step closer to the Grimsby and District Sunday League Division 8 championship with a hard fought 2 – 1 win over FC Locomotive. For the 2nd week in a row Clarks were forced to make changes with Zubie Herrata deputising in goal and Ritchie Hopkins made his first start since December at left back.

A bleak and drizzly Bradley welcomed the two teams who both had not lost a league match in 2008, and this showed in the early exchanges with neither side ascertaining any form of Dominance. During this period Locomotive were playing some neat football from Defence and into midfield but never really threatened the Home side’s goal, while Clarks had the larger share of possession but were wasteful with it. However the game exploded into life on the half hour mark when the hardworking Fuller cut into the Locomotive box after being played in by Jack Stevens. His shot turned cross found its way to the Jonathon Carroll, who unmarked slotted the ball neatly pass the Locomotive keeper. However the Locomotive linesman raised his flag under strong appeals from his defence, and the referee after consulting his assistant signalled for off side.

Clarks had more reason to feel aggrieved when 2 minutes later a free kick was awarded to Locomotive 35 yards out from the Clarks Box. The ball was floated into the area were it was met with a towering header which sailed into the goal past Herreta’s despairing dive. Clarks continued to press up to the break, but went in at half time a goal behind.

The start of the second half saw the home side apply a little more quality and patience to their passing play. Luke Niland started to become more of an attacking force while his central midfield partner Dean Holyoak was having his best game since signing for the blue and white hoops. Jack Stevens, who had been starved of possession in the first half started to weave some magic down the right, which resulted in a series of corners being won. Locomotive were defending well from these, but the last saw Pete Fuller race out and retrieved the ball from just inside the half way line. The striker looked up and picked out Rob Genney who was still in the box from the last corner. Clarks stand in skipper met the ball with his head and glanced it just inside the far post to make it 1 -1.

From the restart Clarks upped the tempo and started to dominate in all areas of the pitch, and the second which ultimately was the winning goal was not long coming. Tom Bryan found himself with the ball on the left, he had enough time to pick out and cross to Fuller who was lurking on the edge of the box. Clarks leading goal scorer hit a first time shot which looped into the top right hand corner of Locomotives goal.

The last 20 minutes of what was previously a good clean competitive encounter was marred by a couple of sending off's from both sides. A locomotive player was sent of for dissent while Fuller for the first time in his playing career was sent off for retaliation after he had been fouled.

Stevens and Rowley came on and did well for Clarks, and the game ended at 2 -1. The backline of Hopkins, Genney, Clark and man of the match Wilkes were all outstanding. These players together with the unavailable Brassington and Sutherland have been the solid foundation on which Clarks have built their title challenge this season.

If it is decided after a Lincs. FA disciplinary hearing that score from a previous abandoned match in which Clarks were leading 3 – 0 stands, then they would be champions. However with this decision not due until May, Clark Construction will certainly not be leaving anything to chance and put every effort into winning their remaining fixture against Waltham RBL on Sunday.