| Match Reports 2007/08 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A biased view of each game (Ratings by B Cormack)
Joes get a lesson from Watten Weasels Joes ended their League campaign with a disappointing result against the youngsters of Watten. There can be no complaints from Joes as they were beaten by the better team on the night as Watten qualified for a playoff to make the playoff if that makes any sense whatsoever. There was a pre-match boost with the return of Hutcheon and Cowie and the absence of Wilson. The other pre-match news was that Will Smith was back in the squad after he completed his college night class in flower arranging. Cormack, on the instructions of Wilson, apparently, decided on a starting line-up of Miller, Hutcheon, Cormack, Lannon, Cowie, Johns and Sutherland, with a bench of Treasurer, Smith, Budge and McKinnon. To the Match Watten started very brightly and were quickly into their stride. Joes were struggling to contain their attackers as Watten attacked with pace. However the job was made even harder with what can only be described as a howler from Ed Miller. now this is nothing to do with his Saturday night conquests. No this was a ball which Miller shouted for and then left as he thought it was sailing wide. However he had misjudged and the ball went trundling into the net to give Watten the early advantage. Watten scored a second within a minute and it looked like the roof was going to cave in on Joes. Lannon then exchanged expletives with a Watten attacker as Joes struggled to get back in the match. However as he has done so often this season, Sutherland would get Joes right back in it. A fine strike gave Joes a huge lift and dented the arrogance of the Watten players. H/T – Top Joes 1 – 2 Watten The optimism Joes had at half time soon evaporated as Watten struck two quick fire goals to put them back on easy street. In fact if Miller had not atoned for his earlier mistake with a number of fine saves it could have been a lot worse for the Joes faithful. Watten added another two goals to go 6-1 up but Joes still had their chances with Budge missing a gilt edged opportunity and Sutherland again unlucky not to add to his tally. John s then did his bit to make sure Joes would finish bottom of the fair play league when he saw red for interfering with on e of the young Watten attackers. Both teams were reduced to 6 men. So a season which promised much ended with a whimper for Joes but allowing for a RG's victory against Seaview, Joes will finish in 7th place in the 2nd Division. F/T – Top Joes 1 – 6 Watten
Man of the match - Sutherland just edges out Cormack Comment from the keeper - So Boner, you got sent off for fourplay…………..
Yet again Joes let lead slip After playing in the Central strips last week, Joes were this week playing their closest foes. There was a pre-match blow to the players as news filtered through that talisman Panda Cameron had indeed left the club. After some tears in the dressing room and morale at an all season low, the Joes took to the field in poor spirits. Midfield stalwart Kevin Cowie was pulled out of the squad altogether such was the pain he was feeling. Although it may have been down to the fact he wanted to cruise the streets of Thurso in the courtesy car he had been given after crashing into an old lady. There was no Hutcheon at the back for Joes as he was visiting the Bayview and Pentland View as he contemplates his next move. Andy Taylor continues to be on the sidelines as he battles his eating demons, and this is possibly why Smith was absent too although he did turn up with a new scarf on. On the plus side, Joes did have the boost of the return of their inspirational leader Michael Wilson. Wilson decided on a starting line-up of Miller, Miller, Cormack, Lannon, Wilson, Johns and Sutherland, with a bench of Treasurer, Budge and McKinnon To the Match In the opening exchanges Central were all over Joes and the lads had to ride their luck although the Central strikers did not have their shooting boots on it has to be said. With Ducky Mackay running straight through, he somehow sent his shot wide of Millers post, a major let off. However Joes would hit on the break and did so in clinical style on 8 minutes. A corner for Central saw the ball cleared quickly by the Joes defence. Sutherland controlled the ball well before he threaded a sublime through ball to Lannon. The Jack of all trades strode forward to send a cool finish past the Central keeper. The effort evoked memories of Lee Naylor’s goal against Hibs at the weekend. The goal set Central back and an even 1st half ensued. However Joes would double their advantage with 5 minutes to half time. A fierce shot from the right was only parried by the keeper and Sutherland was on hand to slot home. H/T – Top Joes 2 – 0 Central The second half was not to be a happy affair for Joes. Midway through two quick fire goals had Central back on level terms. The game had swung back in Central's favour. Miller's goal was being bombarded with most shots wide of the target although two hit the upright whilst Miller made a number of saves as Joes looked to stand firm. However just minutes from the end disaster struck. Cormack was turned inside out by Central substitute Henderson, who then alarmingly left Cormack standing for pace and coolly finished past Miller. Joes to their credit did not lie down and Johns had a great chance to get them back on level terms at the death but was unlucky to see his shot go wide. Joes had a free-kick deep into injury time but no magic could be conjured up and defeat was grabbed from the jaws of victory yet again. F/T – Top Joes 2 – 3 Central
Man of the Match - Sutherland, if only for the Sunday double hat-trick! Comment - Gaffer Mike Wilson The team played well first half but Central dominated the second half and took their chances. In the end though, their keeper denied us from a deserved draw with some good saves.
First win in 2008 as Joes stop the rot Top Joes grabbed their first proper win of 2008 with a strong performance against Seaview, who were a point ahead of them in the table before kick-off. Joes were without their inspirational leader Michael Wilson. Apparently having been sent to the Naver changing rooms after foul and abusive language, Wilson thought he couldn't return to the “dugout” again this season. Talisman Andy Taylor was missing after he gave birth to a son and McKinnon was wining and dining his better half yet again. Hutcheon was absent as he was taking part in a Help the Aged fundraiser. At the end of the game the question was what was the biggest shock of the night? The possibilities are below:- No Panda red card Cowie connecting with the ball for the opening goal Cormack's tricks at the back, bordering on possible showboating Ali Miller's three marauding runs New strips being donated by Mr cardosi However th starting line-up was Miller, Miller, Cormack, Johns, Lannon, Cowie and Sutherland. Joes started brightly and took the game to Seaview. A couple of chances were carved out but Seaview also had a decent chance. However it looked like Miller in the nets was in the mood. His backline also seemed up for the game with Cormack handling everything that was thrown at him. Indeed he decided it was time for total football with some Brazilian like trickery out of defence. His partner at the back decided the Lannon like way was best. In fact the wee man made three lung bursting runs in the first half which Lannon would have been proud of. Unfortunately Alistair has also been watching Andy's finishing and sadly ballooned all three shots well over the bar. So it was Joes stalwart Cowie who would show how to finish. A high ball was taken on the volley by Kev and his powerful shot flew into the net. Joes were on their way. Joes continued to dominate and it was no surprise when top scorer doubled their advantage with one of his now trademark shots from the edge of the box. Budge then gave Sutherland a breather and had two decent chances which he squandered. Miller was still kept fairly busy at the other end and made two top drawer saves to protect Joes lead. When Sutherland made it three it looked game over. Joes did a "Groats" and replaced Cormack as the game looked won. No sooner was the assistant on the touchline than Seaview notched a goal back to make the last few minutes slightly uncomfortable. However the coasters were unable to breach Miller again and Joes ran out 3-1 winners, a fully deserved victory after a fine team performance. Full time Top Joes 3 – 1 Seaview
Man of the Match - A joint award between the two Millers, Cormack and Sutherland Comment - A much improved performance this week against a useful Seaview side. We out-muscled them a little and worked really hard and had no failures this week. More of the same next match please, apart from the erratic shooting of the goal-less Wills though.....
Top Joe's
licked by illustrious opponents (Report -B
Cormack)
Champions Elect given fright by battling Joes The Champions elect of Groats were given a scare after a late rally from Joes saw them bring back on their top men having taken them off as it looked like job done. Groats took an early lead after 2 minutes through Manson but the lads battled gamely and got their just reward from a fin Adam Sutherland finish. However the introduction of former Halkirk United man, Stuart Sinclair turned the game on its head just prior to half time as Groats scored four goals without reply in as many minutes. With a half - time score of 5-1 not too many would have bet against Groats hitting double figures. However a fine effort from Johns at the start of the 2nd half gave Joes heart only for Groats to make it 6-2. However with Groats coasting they replaced their top men and Joes hit back quickly as the game closed with Sutherland making it 6-3 and then a punt from Cormack somehow making its way into the net for the assistant managers first competitive goal in 4 and a half years. Joes had chances to further close the gap but the game ended 6-4 to the seasiders.
Man of the
Match - Has to be Cormack for "that" goal......... Panda’s Petulance costs Top Joes Top Joes slumped to their heaviest defeat of the season against Ashes last night. Unfortunately an act of pure petulance meant Joes lost any chance of victory after only 10 minutes of the game. Whilst there was some provocation, this does not excuse the two yellow cards with a minute of each other. Joes were at the time ea goal down but were on the ascendancy with all the signs of a fight back on the cards and a win was in reach. A major blow in the build up to the match was the news of Andy Taylor being sidelined for the rest of the season due to torn cartilage. A further blow was the absence of accident prone goalie, defender, midfielder and striker Andrew Lannon. Andy had apparently suffered a burst blood vessel in his head whilst getting a haircut but was able to make an appearance at Naver under an umbrella to watch his team mates. Also on the sidelines to shout much encouragement to the players was Joes living legend Gigi Lowe, fresh from celebrating his 40th birthday. Lowe’s support of the players and constant encouragement from the touchline is much appreciated. However his appearance at Naver coincidently coincided with a photo opportunity. Manager Wilson was not listed in the squad last night after suffering convulsions following a sausage roll eating competition in the Royal Hotel on Saturday night. Will Smith was also missing although it was not confirmed if he had also been involved in the sausage roll competition. The manager named a starting seven of Miler, Miller, Hutcheon, Cowie, McKinnon, Johns and Sutherland. On the bench were Cormack, Budge, party Kev and Panda. To the match Ashes took the lead deservedly after about 5 minutes of play and could have doubled their advantage after being awarded a penalty following a slide challenge by keeper Miller. However the Buckies lad bounced back to save the penalty. Joes then enjoyed a spell of pressure before Panda was booked for retaliation. Although whether he was booked for that or the pitiful excuse for a slap he tried to give the 15 year old Ashes midfielder is unclear. However no sooner had the ref put his card back in his pocket, than Panda decided to scythe down another Ashes player to receive a second booking and the inevitable red card. Manager Wilson quickly followed Panda to the dressing room following a heated discussion with the referee following Ashes challenges which went unpunished. This was game over for Joes with Ashes running in 6 more goals before the end of the match.
Man of the Match – Steven Johns. If nothing else, awarded to Bones for still trying to gee his team-mates up even when all was lost. COMMENT FROM THE SIDELINES
- No comment received which could be published on a family website
Star-studded Disco boys too much for Joes A star studded RG’s side put four goals past Joes for the 2nd game in a row at the Naver pavilion on Monday night. RG’s boasted a host of top stars such as ex Wick Academy player Martin MacGregor as well as ex First Division players Dean Salim, Colin MacDonald and James Hill. Such was the depth of talent, RG’s could afford to leave former Joes leg end George Sinclair on the sidelines. Joes own hopes were dealt a blow with injuries to Hutcheon and Sutherland, whilst manager Wilson was attending a kiddie’s tea party in Keiss. McKinnon was also absent as it was his girlfriends birthday for the 2nd time in as many months. Alistair Miller, Party Kev and the Webmaster returned to the squad having been dropped for the previous week’s defeat to Naver United. Wilson sent instructions with midfield "powerhouse" Cowie for a starting line-up of E Miller, A Miller, A Lannon, K Treasurer, K Cowie, S Johns and A Taylor. On a sturdy looking bench were Panda, Smith, Budge & Cormack. To the Match Joes started the match on the back foot as RG’s immediately put pressure on the back line. However hopes of frustrating the former league leaders were gone within minutes as the disco boys raced into a two goal lead in as many minutes. A long range free-kick made its way through a maze of bodies leaving Miller unsighted in the nets. RG’s were boosted by this early goal and a minute later had doubled their lead. With the ball returning to Miller from Miller, the Buckies boy was caught in two minds as to whether it was a pass back. With an RG’s attacker rushing in, Edward looked up but only succeeded in blinding himself in the floodlights. The pass went straight to the Disco boy who duly put his side two up. For the next few minutes RG’s were all over Joes like a rash. It certainly looked like a major beating was on the cards. However the game turned on a fine counter from self proclaimed pie eater Andy Taylor. As soon as the ball nestled in the net Joes grew in stature whilst Rg’s lost theirs. Taylor was injured shortly after with Budge feeling rather lightweight to replace the hulking strike legend. For the final 10-15 minutes of the half Joes had RG’s under the cosh and should have made more of a couple of chances which came their way, with Budge and Cowie the main culprits. Half-time RG’s 2 – 1 Top Joes Joes restarted the 2nd half with renewed optimism but this was to be short lived as Rg’s restored their two goal lead. Credit to the players though; the heads did not go down. As RG’s yet again began to dominate, the maverick Panda, who was about to be subbed, got a goal back yet again. Unfortunately Joes just couldn’t get an equaliser and yet again Rg’s managed to breach the Joes defence to regain their two goal cushion. Saldly there was to be no more fightback from Jeos although there were chances for a third but they went a begging. There was to be no repeat of the draw earlier in the season and Joes were left to reflect on what might have been.
Man of the Match - Steven Johns, much
improvement from last week.
Party Kev not invited as
Joe's fail to "switch it on" at Naver The winter break did Joes no favours as they were caught cold against a rampant Naver side. That the score was only four to nil is a reflection more on some “quality” refereeing than anything else. That Joes only received two yellow cards is also a reflection on the “quality” refereeing. Joes had a full squad to choose from which meant Manager Wilson wielding the axe on Kevin "party" Treasurer, Budge and Al Miller. This meant a return to the squad for veterans Smith and Cormack along with Johns returning from suspension. Wilson opted for a starting line-up of Miller, Hutcheon, Lannon, Cowie, McKinnon, Johns and Sutherland. On the bench were Cormack, Smith, Wilson, Taylor and Panda. This meant an end to a 5 game starting record for Panda who was dropped to the bench as Wilson hoped this might improve his disciplinary record. How wrong was he…… To the Match From the first whistle, Naver took the game to Joes. They were playing at a high tempo and not letting Joes have a second on the ball. Although Joes were hemmed in, the back line of Lannon and his slightly older defensive partner, Hutcheon, were standing up to the task. the breakthrough for Naver seemed inevitable as Joes just couldn't get out the bit. So it proved after 6 minutes when the deadlock was broken. Joes didn't let their heads go down but certainly rode their luck for the rest of the half. A mazy run from Foubister saw Johns trip him but his momentum carried him over and the ball trickled into the net. Fortunately for Joes, referee Makhouli blew just as the ball was about to cross the line. Johns escaped a card and the wall blocked the free-kick. Soon after Miller would find himself in the book as he pulled Foubister back to prevent a goal scoring opportunity. After 18 minutes Naver doubled their lead, with the half coming to an end, Foubister once again scored but referee Makhouli had once again already blown for a foul. 2nd half The second half was much better from Joes and certainly did not deserve to lose another two goals. Chances did go a begging with Cowie a culprit on two or three occasions and Panda opting to go for glory with Taylor waiting for a trademark simple tap in. Panda was booked for a petulant kick at Stevie Campbell as Joes strived to be bottom of the Crime League. Johns was then lucky to escape a yellow once again after sliding and unfortunately manager Wilson opted out of a daring two pronged attack for the last nine minutes as he pointed out it was best to lose 4 nil and be boring rather than 6 nil and be adventurous...... Joes had hoped for the three points to keep the unbeaten run going but unfortunately it wasn't to be.
Man of the Match - Michael Wilson, a fine performance from the gaffer, our very own Graham Rix Managers Comments – although Naver deserved to win tonight, I don’t feel the score line reflected how we played; at 2-0 down we started to come into the game but just couldn’t get the break. On another night the score line would have been closer.
Junior Stalemate but unbeaten run continues If you had given Mike Wilson the option of a point before kick-off, the gaffer would have bitten your hand off. However when referee Makhouli blew the final whistle, there was widespread disappointment that Joes had not bagged all three points. Strangely enough, keeper Ed Miller had one of his quieter games between the sticks. The underfoot conditions certainly suited Joes as the slippery surface slowed down the Junior Swifts but nearly seemed to speed up the Joes! Joes were without Cormack and Smith as the price of fuel begins to hit, whilst Kevin Cowie was at the Wick Players’ production of Aladdin. Boner her was serving the final game of his suspension whilst Ian Smick did turn up at Naver as a trialist but decided it was way too cold to play whilst assuring everyone he was not as soft as his brother…. The gaffer went for a starting line-up of Miller, Miller, Hutcheon, Sutherland, Lannon, Panda, and Taylor leading the line up front. On the bench were Party Kev, Budge and McKinnon To The Match The game started at a slow pace and that wasn’t just Taylor up front, as both sets of players tried to adapt to the atrocious underfoot conditions. An even first half saw no real clear cut chances for either side. Although Miller made a fine save from point blank range as he used the widest piece of his body to save a certain opener from Joes. Thankfully his face recovered. The Swifts were resorting to long range efforts whilst the most excitement on the Joes bench came from some rash sliding tackles from the Panda. In fact one bystander thought Sponge Macdonald had made a return to the Joes, such was Panda’s apparent skill at sliding on the ice like a drunken bambi. However half-time came and Joes were all squared against the then, 2nd placed team in the League. The gaffer felt he should go as he had some pressing engagements at home, but so caught up in the game, with his passion and enthusiasm, he decided to stay. 2nd Half Joes started the second half with aspirations of all three points, and in fairness had enough chances to snatch a winner. The main sinner was self-proclaimed sevens scoring legend Andy Taylor. Not once but twice he was through for a one on one with the keeper, both times the ball trickled past the post. The first time saw Taylor go into the referee’s book as did the keeper. Budge stayed on the subs bench throughout the 2nd half as Manager Wilson told him, “look if anyone is gonna get a winner here, its Andy Taylor, I’d put my house on it”. Unfortunately Wilson is now moving out of his house. A further chance came from a free kick on the edge of the box. A pass back picked up by the Swifts keeper saw him redeem himself with a fantastic save to foil Sutherland who powered in the free kick. Defender Miller also had a couple of pot shots, one which whistled just past the post, the other quite probably whistled just past the moon. All in all, a fine performance from the Joes who kept a clean sheet, the unbeaten run going and yet again got a draw against a top side in the division. Ratings by M Wilson
Men of the Match - Hutch and Alistair- Both played well and used the ball to good effect, and supported midfield when asked to. Managers comment “ We played well against the 2nd placed Swifts, we would have took a point before the game, so I’m happy with the performance and result. We could have won it in the end with Taylor and Alistair having a couple of half chances each. The Winter brake has came at a bad time for us, as we are showing that we can play well and grind out results with an ever changing team.” Sharks bite back yet again Joes began the 2nd round of fixtures as they started the first by surrendering a two goal lead to Sharks. Yet again it was a share of the spoils against a team fast becoming Joes bogey side. After weeks of full squads and rested players, Joes were slightly short handed for the first time this season. Johns was starting a two game suspension, Lannon was getting a hair cut, Ed Miller had a slight cold and as he had lost his Aberdeen hat yet again, did not want to leave the fireplace. Andy Taylor had a ballet class to attend whilst Hutch had the Senior citizens Christmas do in the Legion. Ross McKinnon was unavailable as he was wining and dining his lady friend in Sandra's takeaway. Joes were however boosted by the return of academic Wills Smith and the maverick Panda. Smith, the clubs 3rd choice keeper would take the gloves for this match. Manager Wilson went for a starting line-up of smith, Miller, Cormack, Cowie, Panda, Treasurer, with Sutherland leading the line. On the bench were Budge, Wilson and Smick. The Match Joes could not have asked for a better start to the match. The returning Panda showed his team-mates just what he has learned on his SFA coaching sessions as he hit two goals in as many minutes as Joes sped into a two nil lead after 6 minutes. Control was the name of the game at this point and Sharks were really on the ropes. Even the veteran Cormack was running rings round them on the right wing. With the Manager getting extremely carried away on the touchline, it looked like a night for Joes to boost their goal difference on the way to three easy points. However Joes seemed to take their feet off the gas and by half time found themselves 3-2 down. The second saw another whirlwind start as Sutherland picked up a clearance from defence to fire an unstoppable shot, aided by outside interference, past the Sharks keeper. Joes were not without their chances and a hatful went a begging as they searched for the elusive winner. At the other end, Smith had a brilliant save to push a ball already going wide even further round the post. for all their best efforts Joes couldn't get a fourth and so in all honesty lost two points as seaview and Watten edged clear of them in the table.
Men of the Match - Cormack shades it as he's unlikely to play as well again this season. Gaffers Comments - Well there's not a lot you can say about that lads is there? well there isn't is there?
Derby win is sweet for Joes Joes completed the first half of the season with a great performance to see off the upstairs Central United. Even more pleasing was the manner of the victory as Joes refused to lie down with the work rate shown by the team phenomenal. Even more pleasing is Joes have now matched last season's points tally with another 11 matches to go! This was done without Ed Miller who had acquired pantomime tickets for a show in Aberdeen. Stepping into the breach was Joes' Mr Versatile Andy Lannon. After hitting the net a couple of weeks back he now believes he really can play anywhere in the team! Bruce Cormack was again missing as he is too mean to take the car through from Wick by himself, as Wills Smith is continuing his basic arithmetic night class at Wick College. On the plus side was the return of Andy Taylor and the absence of Panda as Joes also aimed to climb back up the Crime Count League. Manager Wilson went for a starting line-up of Lannon, Miller, Hutcheon, Johns, Cowie, McKinnon with Sutherland up front. On the bench were Treasurer, Wilson, Taylor and Budge. The Match Joes started brightly and took the game to their rivals in the opening exchanges. However it was central who would break the deadlock somewhat against the run of play. A corner was not cleared properly and as the ball bobbled back and forth off a couple of bodies, a Central defender was on hand to hook the ball into the net from 2 yards. Joes had Lannon to thank for keeping them in it as Central nearly snatched a quick second but Lannon dived to his left to save superbly. Joes then hit the Central post and a left foot volley from Miller was unlucky no to hit the corner flag. However the pressure paid off when Johns found Taylor with a header and the ageing front man turned his marker brilliantly before finishing from an acute angle. Having got back into the match, Joes promptly let Central regain the lead when a slack passage of play saw Lannon have no chance with a powerful angled drive. The second half saw chances at both ends with goalkeepers doing well to keep the scores down. Johns was then booked somewhat unluckily as it was only his 2nd sliding tackle of the night and he gave a bit less dissent to the referee than usual too! A high clearance from the back then saw Sutherland beat his man to the ball before lobbing the Central keeper and the Joes were all square. With the game into the last 3 minutes it looked like Joes were going to keep their draw specialist tag. However a corner on the left from Johns was headed back top him and after he exchanged a neat one two with Cowie he somehow fired the ball low into the net from an extremely tight angle. Central couldn't find a way back and Joes came away with all three points. A fine performance from the whole team
Men of the Match - The match winners, Lannon and Johns Comments - The Gaffer declined to comment after the game
Seaview stalemate but Joes gain valuable point Nil nil draws in Caithness 7's football are about as rare as Bruce Cormack buying a round. And so it proved on Monday night as for the first time this year two teams drew a blank. Both teams had decent chances but it was a night for Goalkeepers. Joes had a full squad of 12 with veterans Hutcheon, Taylor and Smith being rested for this game. Joes only victory of the evening was the clash of jersey's which saw Seaview changing with The Sharks. Manager Wilson went for a starting line-up of Miller, Miller, Lannon, Cowie, treasurer, Johns and Sutherland. The full bench was Cormack, Wilson, budge, Panda and McKinnon. The Match An even first half saw chances at a premium in match not particularly for the football purists. A somewhat meaty challenge saw Lannon enter referee Makhouli's book. Clear cut chances were few and far between with only worry for Joes being keeper Miller letting a cross cum shot go by him as everyone else thought it was heading for the net. It turns out the keeper was right and the ball went past the post. Half time saw the Joes regroup and hope for a breakthrough as they had the downhill. Once they found a way through the Seaview defence, they found the keeper in inspired form. In fact the only tally Joes could add to was the yellow card score. Thankfully Panda managed to edge Joes ahead after the Seaview keeper had levelled Lannon's earlier booking. The coaching badges attained by Cameron do not seem to have taught him about discipline! Unfortunately the poor Naver fence yet again bore the frustrations of Cameron. Ratings by Willie Budge
Comments - The Gaffer declined to comment after the game
Joes lick the floor with Tongue Utd Apparently you always get out what you put in. Fortunately for Joes, Tongue Utd did not after they outplayed Joes for long spells. In a night really only fit for sitting by the fire, the game went ahead with showers of hailstones and a cold blustery wind. Joes were without assistant manager Cormack who had a previously arranged hair app9ojtnemt in an upmarket salon in Wick. Sevens legend Taylor was also unavailable although it is not thought Andy had a hair appointment. It is more likely he is still wandering around Skinandi's trying to find the exit door. Wills Smith was an absentee as he continues his winter training regime for the 2014 Commonwealth Games 100m. the only other absentee from the squad was Ross McKinnon who simply couldn't be bothered turning up. Manager Wilson went for a starting line-up of Miller, Miller, Hutcheon, Panda, Cowie, Johns and Sutherland. The bench was Wilson, Budge, Lannon and Treasurer. The Match Tongue certainly handled the conditions quicker and were putting Joes under a lot of pressure in the first 10 minutes of the match. They seemed to be able to use the wind to their advantage whereas it was a hindrance to Joes. However Joes were to take the lead midway through the half firmly against the run of play. A quick break saw Budge somehow control the ball for once and beat his man before laying the ball out to the left to Johns. His low cross field ball was met by Lannon who finished calmly for his first goal in a decade. It is worth pointing out that the Alan Hutton look-alike was using a pair of Cormack's trainers. Hence we now know we cant blame Cormack's trainers for his lack of scoring exploits. At the turnaround Joes had managed to keep the lead but once again in the 2nd half Tongue were able to use the conditions to their advantage. Miller was being kept extremely busy in the nets but Tongue did finally manage to breach his line to equalise. However soon after the Maverick that is Michael "Panda" Cameron came to Joes rescue. A fine run down the right saw him beat 3 or possibly 4 men before unleashing one of the most powerful low drives ever seen at Naver which was lucky not to damage the goal nets. Joes gained confidence from this and it was soon 3-1 with Sutherland popping up with what is now a trademark classy finish. The scoring was not done though as a rebound was turned back across goal by Budge to Treasurer who had the simplest of tap-ins to make it 4-1. the drama didn't end there though. Tongue were awarded a penalty but the Buckies boy was up to the task to make a fine save. Ratings by M Wilson
Managers Comment - "We played ok but Tongue Utd will have thought they should have taken a point. TJ's teams of old would have caved in after 10 minutes with all the Tongue Utd pressure".
ALL STAR GROATS SIDE
BEAT JOES
Wilson's first goal of the campaign Cowie turning up with the water bottles but no footballs towards the end of the first half Wills taking the blame for the fourth goal as predicted on the touchline The dressing room stories about Willie Budge....
MAN OF THE MATCH -
For his second half display WILLS SMITH Ashes to Ashes as Joes do it the hard way A cracking advert for sevens football. End to end stuff with goals from start to finish. A great game to watch for a neutral, not so for the Joes supporters on the sidelines. As has been the case so often this season it looked like Joes were going to lose a lead and either draw or lose the game. However perhaps the fortunes have turned as Joes followed up the draw against RG's with a hard fought victory against Ashes. Caretaker/Assistant Manager Cormack had a full 15 squad to choose from for the first time this season. Therefore 3 names did not even make the listed squad of 12. First out was chief sinner from last week Budge who missed 3 glorious chances and paid the price with his place on the bench. Next out was manager Wilson whilst Cormack's third choice was made e3asy with Will Smith deciding to go to Scottish Slimmers instead of making the trip to Naver. It looked like Cormack may have to call up one of his demoted men when accident prone defender Lannon turned up minus trainers. It appears his wife had sold them and we are now starting an appeal to get them returned to Andy. If anyone should see them please get in touch (Andy's trainers) A major plus on the defensive side was the return of towering full back Ali Miller who had been away for two weeks at a health farm in Norfolk. Johns also returned to the fold having failed to turn up for the RG's game as he had assumed he would be serving a one home suspension. Andy Taylor also returned to add some weight to the Joes attack. The starting sevens were E Miller, Hutcheon, Lannon, Cowie, McKinnon, Panda and Taylor with the bench occupied by Cormack, Johns, A Miller, Sutherland and Treasurer. As the game was set to get underway there was some confusion on the Joes bench. With Johns and Sutherland perplexed as to why McKinnon and Panda had swapped flanks. It seems the changing of ends after the toss had flummoxed the pair of ex Thurso Rangers starlets, need we say anymore..... The Goals The game could not have started any worse for Joes as Ashes scored within the first minute of the game. A quick break saw Cowie only able to pass the ball into the path of the Ashes striker and he had a straight one on one with Miller in the nets to open the scoring. Although appearing shell-shocked at first, Joes quickly got back into the match and levelled in the third minute. a high lofted ball from Panda saw Taylor beat the keeper to the ball and the sevens scoring legend (his words) prodded the ball home from close range. This buoyed the Joes and they were soon ahead. A corner from the right saw the unmarked Cowie taking the cross on the volley and sending an unstoppable shot into the Ashes net. As half-time approached Ed Miller launched a high ball which Sutherland controlled brilliantly before striding forward and unleashing what is fast becoming his trademark goal to give the Ashes keeper no chance. Joes came in at half-time 3-1 although most of the break was used up trying to convince Lannon we were actually 3-1 up. Not for the first time this season Joes started the 2nd half very sluggishly. After a couple of let-offs the inevitable happened as Ashes capitalised on a defensive mistake and scored at the 2nsd attempt after Miller made a fine save for the first effort. However Joes soon regained their tow goal cushion when a fine turn by Taylor saw him gain a yard in midfield and send a great pass out to the left to McKinnon. He set off on a marauding run down the wing and his cross cum shot ended up in the back of the net, possibly taking a deflection on the way. Joes were coasting now but Ashes managed to claw their way back into the match. Defensive slackness saw them grab a goal back and less than a minute later they were on level terms. It really felt like deja vu for the Joes faithful after being in the same position against Sharks earlier in the season. In fact Ashes had a great chance to take the lead but the strikers effort rolled just past Millers far post. This time there was to be a happy ending for Joes. Sutherland chased down the right wing before sliding the ball past his marker and then had the presence of mind to pull the ball back to Johns who struck a delightful shot which nestled in the back of the net and made sure of Joes first three points of the season. A fine performance from all in a Joes jersey, with a win fully deserved. Even if it was done the hard way. Although no bookings were shown, Joes could be in hot water with the sevens committee after a player was seen to kick the Naver park fence a number of times after being substituted. The only saving grace for Joes is that as the kicks were rather pitiful, it is hoped no action will be taken as more damage was probably done to the assailant's toe than the fence. Top 5 Highlights Cormack's first "effort" on goal (Goal used in the loosest possible way) Ed Miller doing keepy uppy with the ball on his right hand as he saved a shot Panda's strop, enough said Cormack's second "effort" on goal (Goal used in the loosest possible way) Joes taking all three points
Man of the Match - Hard
to choose from after such a good team performance which is always a
good thing. For his goal and assist ADAM SUTHERLAND sneaks
it but it could have been almost anyone for
Joe's. Joes get point from Title Favourites What a difference a week makes! After their worst performance of the season against Naver last week, came their best performance this week. Going into the match against the strong favourites for the title was going to be tough enough. Its fair to say most sevens pundits would not have given the Joes a prayer. Add to that the exclusion of front men Sutherland and Taylor, yellow card king, Johns and defensive powerhouse, Alistair Miller, an absolute drubbing was on the cards. However that was not the case. The depleted Joes, who were also without manager Wilson, put on a brave show and had their chances to take all three points. The starting line - up saw Miller, Hutcheon and Lannon in defence, a midfield trio of McKinnon, Cowie and Panda with Budge up front to show just how depleted the Joes were. On the bench were Cormack and Smith. The Goals Joes started brightly and perhaps shocked their opponents with their offensive play. Indeed chances went a begging at both ends before the deadlock was broken. Joes main offender was Budge who schlaffed a glorious chance early on and after Robbie and George's had taken the lead, Budge had another chance to lob the keeper only to see the keeper saved easily. At the other end Hutch was using his experience to snuff out the RG's attacks with Lannon beside him also finding time to burst forward. Joe said find a way back when Cowie expertly drew the keeper before calmly slotting the ball home. Joes however fell behind once again before the Panda show was to kick into action. Firstly a fine turn saw a cool finish before a spectacular effort put Joes 3-2 up with only minutes remaining. RG's were staring desperation in the face and threw everything forward. Joes had a glorious chance to seal the 3 points but Budge was once again the sinner as Jackson in the RG's goals defied him. and so as Joes began to dream of their first 3 points of the campaign, once again lady luck was not shining on them as Robbie and Georges hit back to make it 3-3 near the end. The loss would perhaps have been hard on RG's who no doubt had their chances but this was a game Joes could so easily have broken their duck for the season. It was not to be though a much improved performance bodes well for Ashes next week when some of the top Joes performers may be back. Top 5 Highlights Joes finishing a game without a yellow card Willie Cannop's quote after the match regarding Cowie "not being the most composed player you have ever seen" An RG's co-manager's quote during play "that they needed the 3 points". Like we didn't! Kevin Treasurer's excuse for not making the match because he had a "cold" Cormack trying in vain to get Panda top play left midfield instead of sneaking up front
Man of the Match - A
tough one this week with a much improved team performance but will say
MICHAEL CAMERON and IAIN MILLER cannot be split.
Naver Utd curse strikes again In what turned out to be the worst performance of the season so far, Joes seldom looked likely to end their Naver Utd jinx, having never beaten them in sevens football. Joes were yet again without the "experienced" Hutch and the "powerful" Miller in the defence whilst manager Wilson was unavailable through work commitments. Desperate measures were even called for in the second half with Sevens scoring legend Andy Taylor doing a Sutton and playing in the back two. The starting line - up saw Miller, Cormack and Lannon in defence, a midfield trio of Sutherland, Cowie and Johns with Taylor up front. On the bench were Treasurer, Budge, Panda and Smith. The Goals Naver started the brighter and went ahead after a cross from the right was turned in by Foubister. Their lead was quickly doubled when a through ball carved the Joes defence open and Foubister was there again to prod the ball past Miller. Joes hauled themselves back into as half-time neared. A long clearance from Miller was controlled superbly by Sutherland who skipped past his man and beat the Naver keeper at his near post. Joes managed an equaliser right on half - time. Smith did well at the back before interchanging passes with Lannon. Smith then found Sutherland who crossed for Lannon on the half way line. As Lannon strode forward he slipped neat pass to McKinnon who took it first time and buried it in the net. Unfortunately after the break, Joes good work was all undone. Poor discipline added to a loss of shape saw Naver hit four in the second half without reply. Foubister added another two with Calder and Macintosh adding counters to leave Joes looking a poor shadow of the team which had played in recent weeks. Naver fully deserved their 6-2 victory and much improvement is needed if Joes are to start picking up points. Top 5 Highlights (only 3 this week!) Sutherland's control and finish for 1st goal Build up to second goal Boner getting booked
Wait for 1st win of the season goes on The wait for the first 3 points of season goes on after a rip roaring game with newcomers Watten ended with Joes scoring five but losing seven. This season has seen a massive change with goal scoring no problem but goal prevention becoming Joes Achilles heel. It was basically a fool strength squad last night with Ed Miller making his first competitive appearance of the season and Kiev C and Kiev T returning although defensive powerhouse Alistair Miller was unavailable. Assistant Caretaker boss Cormack demoted himself out of the squad. He felt this would make fellow wick based player Smith feel bad about jarring him for petrol money on the way home. The starting line - up appeared to be Joes strongest so far this season with Miller, Hutch and Lannon in defence, a midfield trio of Sutherland, Cowie and Wilson with Taylor up front. On the bench were Treasurer, Budge, Johns, Panda and Smith. The Goals The game started at a high tempo with Joes looking sluggish. Perhaps a downside to the recent friendly win over Central Utd. A corner for Joes saw an extremely quick break from Watten who fired themselves ahead. Soon after a soft free-kick saw a long range fee-kick whiz past a possibly unsighted Miller. Joes appeared shell-shocked and looked in danger of being over run by their opponents. However a fine through ball from Cowie found Taylor in space to fire Joes right back into it. Budge had a decent chance soon after but failed to trouble the keeper. Joes were back at the races by now though and managed a leveller before half time. Johns played a neat one two with Budge and threaded a fine ball though to Treasurer. After skipping past a defender Big Kev slipped the ball past the onrushing Watten keeper from a tight angle. As the half drew to a close, Miller had a fine diving save to put Joes in level at the break. The second half was barley 20 seconds old when Joes forged ahead for the first time in the game. A brilliant lofted ball from Smith out of defence found Sutherland who darted forward and sent an unstoppable shot into the far corner of the net. The ball appeared to be live and returned to the net although the referee was arving nun of it. With the foul mouthed protests of the assistant caretaker manager still ringing around the Naver arena, Watten marched up the pitch and levelled once again. Within minutes, as Johns appeared to stumble over the ball he managed to find Cowie with a pass. Little Kev beat his man before sending a low shot into the back of the net. As if a carbon copy, Watten again broke with speed and levelled once again. There was no Joes fight back this time though as Watten struck three in as many minutes to kill the game as a contest. Joes kept plugging away and managed to get a fifth as a long range free-kick from Johns somehow found its way to the back of the net. A couple of half chances fell Joes way in the dying minute with an indirect free-kick from Panda just missing Taylor and an angled drive just put past the post by Budge when he should have done better. A disappointing end to the game which was lost in two or three short minutes mid way through the half. Heart must be taken from the goal scoring exploits and hopefully that elusive first win is just round the corner. From a neutral's point of view we must be a good team to watch! Top 5 Highlights Smith's theatrical dive on the halfway line, did he think he was Dida Caretaker Assistant managers foulmouthed rant at the referee Diving save from Miller at end of 1st half Boner not getting booked Panda's love bite on his brew
Revenge is sweet for Junior Swifts Having been on the losing side twice to Joes last season, the wee Swifts will see this as somewhat of a revenge result. In what was a great advert for sevens football, Joes were on the wrong end of this 5 goal thriller. Joes were yet again without Ed Miller as he was looking for a puncture repair kit, whilst free scoring midfielder Kevin Cowie was still finishing the half marathon in Gateshead. Although they were boosted by the return of professional layabout, Kev Treasurer. As Treasurer missed the first game of the season he reassured his team mates that he had not in fact got job yet. Manager Wilson was also still missing due to work commitments. Assistant boss Cormack was in charge yet again and decided to pitch 3rd choice keeper Wills Smith between the sticks, Hutch and Lannon at the back with a midfield trio of Sutherland, Mackinnon and Johns with Taylor up front. On the bench were Kev T, Budge, Miller and Cormack. The Goals Joes opened the scoring after a long ball from Hutch. The Swifts defence were caught out and Budge was on hand to slide the ball past the keeper and into the net. Goal number two for Joes saw Taylor finishing from the penalty spot. Top 5 Highlights A Cormack header? Surely not Sevens scoring legend Taylor opening his Joes account Taylor getting pushed over a by a Jnr Swift Penalty miss from Sutherland Penalty score by Taylor
MAN OF THE MATCH -
Alistair Miller.
Deja vu for Joes as Sharks bite back in last five again The new season began in earnest with a decidedly new look Joes side. New manager Michael Wilson has raided feeder club Thurso Rangers for the cream of their crop as well as adding some experience to the squad. Wilson found one of the very few players older than Gigi Lowe still playing sevens football in Brian Hutcheon, plus former Crazy Gang defender Alistair Miller as well as the sevens legend that is Andy Taylor. However Joes were without manager Wilson for the season curtain raiser as well as Ed Miller, Kev T and Andy Lannon. Unfortunately Miller had a pre-arranged appointment for a haircut and Lannon is assumed to have had yet another accident. Young Treasurer is still away on a two week training stint with the Commonwealth weight lifting team. With Wilson unavailable, assistant boss Cormack took the reins and decided to pitch 3rd choice keeper Wills Smith between the sticks, Hutch and Miller at the back with a midfield trio of Cowie, Mackinnon and Johns with Sutherland up front. On the bench were Taylor, Budge, Panda and Cormack. The Goals Sharks opened up a two goal lead by half - time. The first goal saw a clearance from Smith headed back up field by the Sharks midfield. The attacker then evaded two Joes defenders before sending a powerful shot past Smith. The second Sharks counter saw possession lost in defence by Joes. A low cross saw an angled drive come back off the post and rebounded off Cormack and into the net. However less than a minute after the break Joes were back in it. A loose ball was picked up by Cowie who played a neat one two with Sutherland and big Kev slid the ball home from two yards. Cowie double his tally for the season less than two minutes later as he skipped past two sharks defenders and slid the ball home. Joes now had their tails up and a great turn in midfield saw Johns stride forward and as the shout came from the assistant manger "right wing", Johns correctly ignored this and sent an unstoppable shot past the Sharks keeper. A fine individual effort from Sutherland saw him open his Joes account. Picking up the ball close to his own box, he outstripped the Sharks defence and sent a fantastic low drive into the corner of the net. However as Joes know to their cost last season, a two goal cushion is never enough against the sharks. And so it proved as Kris Smith hit back after Budge played an unintentional one two with him. With only two minutes left Sharks would hit the equaliser. Budge took the ball for a walk on the touchline and even although the ball had not gone out, Sharks got the kick in. From this they managed to hit their fourth of the evening to leave the scores level and the Joes somewhat disappointed. Top 5 Highlights A fine diving save from William Smith A trademark Taylor turn which we will hopefully see more of this season Cormack's face when he nearly hit a second own goal Hutch looking fitter at his "age" than some of his younger team mates A left foot pile driver from Miller which went just wide
Last Update 17/01/2010 |
