Match Reports for Rothwell Athletic AFC

Menston Juniors 3 v Rothwell Athletic 4 - 17 May 2009

On a overcast morning Rothwell travelled to Menston for their final game of the season and fourth game in eight days, knowing that victory would mean the runners up spot in the league. Due to injuries it was a depleted Rothwell squad against a team we have failed to beat on the three previous occasions we have played them.

Menston started the stronger and only a timely tackle by Sam Groves on 3 minutes prevented a shot on goal but from the resulting corner the tall Menston defender rose unchallenged to head into the Rothwell net giving Dan Bell no chance .Rothwell’s first goal attempt came on 6 minutes when Ben Scargill shot wide under pressure. Rothwell were just beginning to get on top without really creating many goal attempts when on 15 minutes Menston scored a second goal when after a break from midfield the ball fell at the feet of the centre forward and he hit the ball into the roof of the Rothwell net.

It could have been 3-0 moments later but for a headed goal line clearance by Joe Ansboro and a brave save by Dan Bell at the feet of the Menston player. Joe Collinson was strong in the Rothwell midfield with his tackling. Rothwell needed a moment of magic by Reece Fennel on 18 minutes to claw their way back into the game when he broke in from the right wing past a couple of Menston players and hit a swerving shot into the corner of the goal from outside the area.

Both sides had chances to score further goals as Ben Scargill and Kieran Turnbull forced good saves in an end to end game .Menston scored what could have been a decisive third goal as we reached half time, when a series of deflections in the Rothwell area fell kindly to the Menston player and he took his chance well shooting into the far corner of the net . In first half added time due to injuries to Kieran Turnbull, Josh Morley and Joe Collinson Rothwell scored a second goal when a Reece Fennel pass played Josh Morley into the area and he finished well with a left foot shot.

Rothwell started to dominate the second half straight from the kick off with Sam Groves and Ben Scargill leading the team forward from central midfield. Sam Innes had two goal attempts blocked on the line as Rothwell searched for the equaliser. Kieran Turnbull and Reece Fennel had goal bound attempts pushed onto the post by the Menston keeper. Sam Groves, Joe Ansboro and Ben Scargill all had shots that cleared the Menston crossbar.

The deserved equaliser came on 16 minutes when ‘man of the match’ Reece Fennel ran onto a Brad Hoyle pass and the keeper could only palm the ball into the corner of the net. Menston were always dangerous on the break and Patrick Franklin, Brad Hoyle, Jack Turner and Joe Ansboro had to be alert and use their pace against the strong and speedy Menston forwards and with 10 minutes left a shot flew across the Rothwell goal which only needed a touch to reach the back of the Rothwell net.

The deserved winning goal came with 8 minutes left when another Josh Morley run into the area resulted in a foul by the Menston defender. Sam Groves stepped up and crashed the ball into the back of the Menston net. Dan Bell then had to be alert in the closing stages making a smart save at his near post.

As the referee blew his whistle for full time it was greeted with signs of relief all round by the Rothwell managers, parents and the team. For long periods of the game Rothwell had been playing with up to four injured players showing team spirit to gain a significant victory.

The result secured the runners up spot in the Garforth League 1st Division as well as reaching the semi final of the Millennium Cup and winners of the Supplementary Cup in a very successful season for the team.

With the result today it also meant that the team were unbeaten away from home in the league all season, winning six out of eight games played. The team also won four away cup games out of five and the only away ground we lost on all season was the Millennium Cup Semi Final at Thorp Arch.

I am sure everyone would like to thank Andy, Barry, Chris and Jill for all their hard work over the last 10 months.

Man of the Match - Reece Fennel

Games in all competitions played this season

Played Won Drew Lost

28 20 4 4

Rothwell Athletic v Wortley 13.05.2009

Rothwell Athletic 2 Wortley 2

Rothwell played their third game in four days against a very tall and strong Wortley side, the home side knew the visitors would be very competitive as a win for Wortley would secure them the runners up spot in the league.

Possibly for the first time this season Rothwell were outplayed for the first 30 minutes by a Wortley side who kept Rothwell pinned back in their own half for long periods of the game. The impressive Wortley number 7 was controlling play and he was involved in all their best moves. The opening goal came on 5 minutes when a long range shot flew into the Rothwell net despite Dan Bell doing well to get his hands to the ball.

Moments later Wortley were 2-0 up after Jack Turner used his pace to keep up with the attacker and block a cross out for a corner. The resulting corner then flew directly in to the corner of the Rothwell net without anyone getting a touch on the ball.

At this stage there was only one team in the game, and all the Rothwell defenders had to defend their goal for long periods of the half . On a rare Rothwell attack Reece Fennel found space but his shot hit the post. On 25 minutes Ben Scargill had a shot blocked and Shaun Cale hit the rebound wide of the post. Wortley could have extended their lead further but for Dan Bell racing out of his area to clear danger on more than one occasion. It was ‘one of them games’ that any ricochets and deflections were all falling the Wortley way and even on a couple of occasions when the ball deflected off the referee it fell to a Wortley player.

As the half time whistle sounded the visitors were well worth their 2-0 lead.

The second half was the opposite of the first, with Rothwell on top without really causing any pressure to the Wortley defence. Reece Fennel had a shot from 12 yards out, that beat the keeper, but was cleared off the line by the defender. At this stage due to injury Ben Scargill moved into the centre of defence and this allowed Sam Groves to move into midfield.

Down the left hand side of the pitch Regan Fish, Joe Ansboro and Sam Groves started to get the better of the Wortley players with simple pass and move football and for the rest of the game the Rothwell danger came down this side of the pitch. Despite injury Ben Scargill played an excellent holding role against the strong Wortley forwards.

Rothwell’s first goal came on 14 minutes when Regan Fish won the ball his pass found Joe Ansboro who played the ball into space for Sam Groves to run on to, his cross was well controlled by Kieran Turnbull and he shot into the back of the net from 10 yards out..Shaun Cale made some dangerous breaks down the right wing but his crosses were met by the tall and robust Wortley defenders. On a rare Wortley attack in the second half Patrick Franklin had to show his pace to prevent a shot on the home goal.

On 24 minutes Joe Ansboro broke down the left wing and his pass inside found Sam Groves who chipped a ball into the path of Joe Bedford who shot into the back of the Wortley net for the equaliser. Jack Turner and Joe Collinson spent the remainder of the half in and around the Wortley area as Rothwell sensed a possible winning goal without really creating any more clear cut chances despite dominating the game.
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Wortley held on for a deserved point, that their first half play merited. The draw meant that Rothwell could clinch the runners up spot in the 1st Division with victory against Menston on Sunday.

Man of the Match - Ben Scargill.

Rothwell Athletic v Collingham 11.05.2009

Rothwell Athletic 2 Collingham 5

Only 24 hours after winning the Supplementary Cup Rothwell were back in action in a league game that had lost its importance due to the fact Rothwell could no longer win the title.

After a quiet opening it was Collingham who took the lead on 4 minutes when the impressive number 12 scored the first goal of his ‘hat trick’ when he sprinted clear of the Rothwell defence and finished with a shot into the corner of the net. The nearest Rothwell came to scoring was on 10 minutes when Joe Ansboro’s through ball found Sam Groves but his shot was blocked. From the resulting corner by Reece Fennel , Sam Groves rose highest but headed over from 6 yards.

On 10 minutes Collingham doubled their lead when a similar ball over the top left the number 12 running through on goal and his shot gave Dan Bell no chance of saving. A couple of minutes later Joe Bedford ran into the Collingham area but his shot was blocked by the keeper . A determined Joe Collinson run and pass found Joe Bedford but again the keeper did well to push his shot wide of the post. After 25 minutes the game was realistically beyond Rothwell when Collingham scored a third goal which was knocked into the net from 6 yards out following a right wing cross.

Rothwell’s only other chance of the half saw a Kieran Turnbull run and cross find Regan Fish but on one of those nights his shot was deflected wide by the defender who knew little about it. Within 5 minutes of the restart it was 4-0 when another break from half way was finished well across Dan Bell into the corner of the net giving Dan no chance of saving. A move involving Reece Fennel and Ben Scargill saw a Sam Innes shot well saved by the keeper.

On 8 minutes Rothwell scored their first goal of the game when a Reece Fennel corner was met by Sam Innes who nodded into the net. Five minutes later it was 4-2 when a Reece Fennel cross was well finished by Joe Bedford. Any hopes of a comeback were finished on 22 minutes when another shot found the back of the Rothwell net despite the best efforts of Dan Bell and Patrick Franklin.

A disappointing match result for Rothwell in a match where the home team had the majority of the play and the visitors only had maybe six attempts on goal but finished them well to win the game easily.

Man of the Match - Sam Innes

Supplementary Cup Final 10 May 2009 - Rothwell Athletic v Farsley Celtic Colts

Rothwell Athletic 8 Farsley Celtic Colts 1

Rothwell went into the Final at Ossett Town knowing that this was their only chance of silverware this season, after a Semi Final defeat in the Millennium Cup and last weeks result in the league.

Straight from the kick off Rothwell took control of the game and within a couple of minutes following a Reece Fennel corner Ben Scargill had a shot saved by the keeper. Joe Ansboro and Josh Morley then linked up well and a cross into the area resulted in a Kieran Turnbull shot saved by the keeper. Farsley’s first pressure on the Rothwell goal came on 5 minutes with a break down the right but the Farsley forward’s shot went wide.

Ben Scargill and Regan Fish were beginning to run the centre of midfield and were linking up play well with Reece Fennel and Kieran Turnbull up front. The closest Farsley came to scoring in the first half was on 9 minutes when a free kick from distance crashed against the Rothwell bar, and on 12 minutes Joe Bedford made a good save when a shot from inside the box threatened the Rothwell goal.

The opening goal which settled the Rothwell nerves came on 14 minutes when a Josh Morley free kick rebounded into the path of Regan Fish and he made no mistake from 8 yards out. Within 2 minutes it was 2-0 when Josh Morley found Reece Fennel his clever lay off was finished well by Kieran Turnbull.

On 24 minutes Sam Groves showed his pace when the Farsley forward broke through towards the Rothwell goal but his tackle knocked the ball out for a throw in. A Shaun Cale pass then released Reece Fennel again, but the defender showed good pace to beat him to the ball.

The third Rothwell goal came on the half hour mark when a Josh Morley free kick was headed over the Farsley keeper by Reece Fennel. Ben Scargill was now showing his skill and pace with numerous runs past the Farsley players and creating space for his teammates, this culminated on 32 minutes when he picked up the ball in midfield and ran towards the Farsley goal where he hit a shot from 20 yards out into the net giving the keeper no chance for a half time score of 4-0.

Within seconds of the second half commencing it was 5-0, when Kieran Turnbull picked up the ball and ran into the area before shooting into the roof of the Farsley net. Farsley never gave up and battled on valiantly and made Rothwell work hard for the ball. Regan Fish and Joe Ansboro maybe small but they put in some strong tackling and did not take a backward step all game. On 10 minutes Dan Bell was called upon to make a sharp save at his near post. Within a couple of minutes it was 6-0 when a Reece Fennel corner was knocked into the net at the far post by Joe Collinson who also battled for every ball during the second half. Brad Hoyle and Jack Turner were comfortable at the back in stopping any Farsley possible breaks. Sam Groves played his normal assured game and encouraged his teammates when required.

Joe Bedford never stopped running all half and was unlucky with a couple of shots that were blocked. Josh Morley and Shaun Cale showed their skill and pace all game with their running and crossing of the ball. Patrick Franklin made some determined forward runs from right back and Sam Innes showed some clever play in his role playing behind the forwards with his link up play between midfield and the forwards.Reece Fennel and Keiran Turnbull caused the Farsley defence trouble all the match with their pace, and contributed five goals between them.

Farsley scored a deserved goal with 10 minutes left when a shot from inside the box flew into the top corner of the net giving Dan Bell no chance for 6-1. Rothwell scored again when a free kick was awarded and from 25 yards out Reece Fennel curled it into the corner of the net. The final goal came in the closing moments of the game when a move involving Ben Scargill resulted in Reece Fennell finishing well and completing his deserved hat trick for a final score of 8-1, which was maybe slightly flattering against gallant opponents.

A well deserved win for Rothwell and a piece of silverware that their overall play has deserved this season. Just three league games left in a week to finish off the season.

Men of the Match - Ben Scargill and Josh Morley

Next Match - Mon 11 May - Rothwell Athletic v Collingham 6.30pm

Wed 13 May - Rothwell Athletic v Wortley 6.30pm

Sun 17 May - Menston v Rothwell Athletic

Rothwell Athletic v Yorkshire Amateurs 06.05.09

Rothwell Athletic 4 Yorkshire Amateurs 4

On a breezy sunny Wednesday evening, Rothwell played Yorkshire Amateurs for the second time in a month knowing that only a win would do if they had any chance of catching Farsley Celtic for the First Division title against opposition who are always tough to beat.

Rothwell started strongly and on 3 minutes Ben Scargill hit a shot from distance that the Ammers goalie did well to push into the air and catch at the second attempt. This was the first of countless saves that the keeper made and ultimately cost Rothwell the win they needed.

On 4 minutes Reece Fennel broke clear after a pass by Josh Morley but only a well timed tackle prevented a shot. A Joe Collinson ball put Reece one on one with the keeper but he blocked the shot with his legs. The Ammers on 9 minutes took the lead in their first attack of the game. The ball landed at the feet of the forward and from 25 yards out his shot went into the roof of the Rothwell net.

Straight from the kick off the impressive Sam Groves picked up the ball and ran through the Ammers midfield and hit a shot just over the bar. By now it was one way traffic towards the Ammers goal but the home team were denied time and time again by the excellent Connor Houghton in the visitors goal. On 17 minutes he blocked a Josh Morley shot and Kieran Turnbull was unlucky when he headed the rebound wide of the post. Joe Collinson won the ball in midfield and set Reece Fennel through on goal but from a tight angle dragged his shot wide. A Josh Morley corner was then headed over the bar by Sam Groves while under pressure from the defender.

It seemed that Rothwell were never going to score but on 25 minutes Rothwell scored a deserved equaliser when Joe Ansboro played a one two with Josh Morley and his cross was turned into the net by Joe Bedford. Within a minute it was 2-1 when a Sam Groves pass found Reece Fennel and he lobbed the ball over the keeper. The third goal in a 5 minute spell came when a Josh Morley cross was diverted into his own net by the unfortunate defender.

Rothwell then seemed to switch off and for the remainder of the half it was the Ammers who were the dominant team. Firstly they had a shot that just flew wide of the post and then they scored their second goal on 33 minutes when the centre forward turned on a lose ball in the area and shot into the corner of the Rothwell net. Dan Bell then made a good reflex save and when Brad Hoyle cleared a shot off the line, the home team thought they would still have a half time lead but with the last move of the half the away team equalised when a well struck shot found its way into the net for a half time score of 3-3.

The second half for long spells mirror imaged the first half with one way traffic on the Ammers goal but the visitors were always dangerous on the break against the home team. On 5 minutes the keeper pulled off a double save from Reece Fennel and then Kieran Turnbull. On 10minutes Reece Fennel could not keep the ball on target when his shot cleared the bar.

Regan Fish added energy to the Rothwell team in the second half and Jack Turner had another solid display in defence.

The Ammers then had a couple of chances that they could not convert as both sides went for the winner. With 6 minutes left Ben Scargill won the ball on the right and drove into the Ammers area where he found Reece Fennel and his cross fell for Kieran Turnbull who scored from 6 yards. As we reached full time the Ammers won a free kick on the half way line the keeper then delivered a ball that bounced in the Rothwell six yard box and was nodded into the Rothwell net in the last action of the match for a 4-4 draw.

Rothwell need to pick themselves up for the Supplementary Cup Final on 10 May as well the three remaining league games as they try and finish as high in the league as possible as they could still finish anywhere between second and fourth spot.

Rothwell Athletic v Farsley Celtic - 26 April 2009

Rothwell Athletic 2 Farsley Celtic 1

Rothwell Athletic played hosts to Farsley Celtic on a sunny spring morning. Farsley needed to win to clinch the 1^st Division title against the only team in the league to defeat them this season. It made a change for the opposition to be of a similar size to Rothwell. Both sides knew it would be a close game and a good game of football as both sides pass the ball well.

The match started off evenly with both sides able to reach the oppositions penalty area but neither side had any early attempts on goal. The Rothwell defence of Joe Bedford, Jack Turner, Sam Groves and Joe Ansboro were quick into the tackle giving the Farsley players no time to dwell on the ball similar to the game at Farsley last month.

The first save of the match was made by Dan Bell when an excellent delivered free kick was pushed confidently round the post for a corner. On 20 minutes a Shaun Cale pass found Kieran Turnbull but his shot was blocked by the defender. Josh Morley then won the ball on the left and played a dangerous ball into the Farsley area where the alert keeper beat Reece Fennel to the ball.

Ben Scargill was having an influential game in midfield and Regan Fish never took a backward step beside him. Shaun Cale and Josh Morley were seeing plenty of the ball and were winning the battle with their Farsley counterparts. Reece Fennel was dropping back into space in front of the midfield leaving the speedy Kieran Turnbull to lead the line effectively.

Following a foul on Regan Fish, Sam Groves free kick fell to the feet of Ben Scargill but his first time shot went wide of the post. On 25 minutes Joe Bedford made a run and his pass found Reece Fennel whose shot beat the keeper but was cleared off the line.

The opening goal came on 26 minutes when Farsley won a free kick, an excellent delivery resulted in a Rothwell player who was under pressure from the Farsley forwards knocking the ball into his own net for a 1-0 scoreline to the visitors. The lead lasted less than 5 minutes, when on the half hour mark Josh Morley ran onto a loose ball 25 yards out and hit an unstoppable shot into the top corner of the Farsley net. The final action of the half saw Regan Fish win the ball and his cross towards Reece Fennel was cleared for a corner.

The second half started off with Rothwell beginning to be the dominant team and what turned out to be the winning goal was scored on 5 minutes when ‘man of the match’ Shaun Cale sent a cross into the area where Kieran Turnbull blasted into the goal from 12 yards out for a 2-1 scoreline. Rothwell nearly extended their lead when a Josh Morley corner was headed into the keepers arms by Kieran Turnbull. The Rothwell parents were waiting for the Farsley onslaught but it never materialised.

Joe Bedford, Shaun Cale and Ben Scargill were keeping Rothwell on the front foot down the right hand wing with Joe Ansboro, Josh Morley and Regan Fish doing the same on the left wing with their passing and movement. This resulted in numerous crosses by Shaun Cale and Josh Morley where Kieran Turnbull and Reece Fennel were competing against the Farsley defenders, and only good goalkeeping prevented further goals . The impressive Jack Turner, latterly Brad Hoyle and Sam Groves kept the Farsley forwards in their own half of the pitch and were the first to any balls played out of defence by Farsley.

The introduction of Brad Hoyle, Patrick Franklin, Joe Collinson and Sam Inness added fresh legs to the Rothwell team and their energy in the tackle prevented any possible Farsley breaks, as both sides began to tire in the warm weather.

In the last 10 minutes Ben Scargill played Reece Fennel through on goal on two occasions but,under pressure, one shot was saved and the other flew over the bar. Farsley’s only goal attempt of the second half came with 3 minutes left when the forward broke away but his shot from a tight angle was well saved by Dan Bell.

Although the referee played 5 minutes injury time there were no more goal chances, as Rothwell deservedly won the game and completed the league double over Farsley Celtic. Some of the Farsley parents applauded the Rothwell team off the pitch and said the better team won on the day.

Again another team effort by all the players involved from Rothwell.

Man of the Match - Shaun Cale

Next Match - Wednesday 29 April- Garforth Rangers v Rothwell Athletic

Rothwell Athletic v Whitkirk Wanderers - Supplementary Cup Semi Final

23 April 2009

Rothwell Athletic 1 Whitkirk Wanderers 0

On a pleasant Thursday evening Rothwell played host to Whitkirk Wanderers, in a repeat of last years semi - final, and not for the first time this season against much bigger opposition.

Whitkirk started well and forced a corner in the opening moments which Dan Bell did well to hold onto.

Rothwell started with a different defensive formation playing three at the back. Rothwell’s first attack was started with Jack Turner winning the ball and passing it into a space for Joe Bedford to run onto, his pass into the area for Reece Fennel was bravely won by the keeper who dived at the feet of the forward. It was then Whitkirk’ turn to exert some pressure when a well delivered free kick was headed away from danger by Ben Scargill on two occasions.

On 12 minutes came the winning and ultimately only goal of a hard fought game, with Rothwell’s best move of the match, Sam Innes won the ball and passed to Regan Fish who sent a pass out to the right wing for Shaun Cale, his run found Joe Bedford who passed the ball into the corner of the net.

The next two Whitkirk attacks resulted in free kicks and on both occasions the excellent delivered kicks flashed just wide of the Rothwell post. On 18 minutes a mistimed tackle by the tall Whitkirk midfielder resulted in a rare yellow card and Regan Fish been carried off the pitch but he was able to rejoin the game in the second half.

Whitkirk were dangerous throughout and played a more direct game than Rothwell, but Jack Turner ,Brad Hoyle and Sam Groves prevented the shots reaching the Rothwell goal. On 33 minutes a Josh Morley corner was met by a Sam Groves header which was cleared off the line in the last action of the first half. Joe Collinson was competitive in midfield throughout the first half with his non stop tacking.

Straight from the kick off in the second half Reece Fennel broke clear and only an excellent sliding tackle by the Whitkirk player prevented a shot on goal. From the resulting corner Joe Collinson had a powerful header that just cleared the bar. On 10 minutes Whitkirk broke through the Rothwell midfield and a shot from distance just flew wide of the post. Another Shaun Cale run and pass found Kieran Turnball, his unselfish layoff found Reece Fennel who was ready to shoot on goal when another excellent tackle cleared the ball from danger.

Whitkirk then had their possibly best spell of the game with a number of dangerous corners and free kicks that were kept out of the home goal by brave defending. As we entered the final 10 minutes both Patrick Franklin and Joe Ansboro won tackles and their passes released Kieran Turnbull and Josh Morley into the Whitkirk half. Ben Scargill and Josh Morley both had shots from distance in the closing stages which went wide of the goal.

As we reached injury time Whitkirk won a corner which was cleared by Sam Groves. There was relief for Rothwell at the final whistle after losing last year’s semi - final to Whitkirk and last month’s semi - final of the Millennium Cup against Ossett Town,.A case of third time lucky for Rothwell who now move on to the final of the Supplementary Cup on 10 May against Farsley Celtic Colts.

Man of the Match - Regan Fish

Rothwell Athletic v Menston Juniors 20 April 2009

Rothwell Athletic 0 Menston Juniors 2

On a bright sunny spring morning Rothwell attempted to get their league campaign back on track against Menston Juniors, a team we had struggled to take points off over the last couple of seasons.

The first half was dominated by Menston who belied their lowly league position to take control of the first half against the home team that seemed to have lost all confidence in the last few weeks. Brad Hoyle, Jack Turner and Joe Ansboro had to be alert in the opening stages to prevent the strong Menston forwards having any shots on goal. A rare attempt on goal by the home team on 15 minutes resulted in Kieran Turnbull playing Joe Bedford through on goal, but unfortunately he dragged his shot wide. Joe Collinson never stopped battling in midfield throughout the first half.

The opening and only goal of the first half soon followed when Menston won a free kick near the touch line and following an excellent delivery the tall Menston player rose highest to place a strong header into the corner of the goal for a deserved lead.

Menston were first to every ball as they sensed an upset was on the cards against a below par performance by the home team. Rare pressure on the visitors goal resulted in a Josh Morley free kick headed wide by Kieran Turnbull.

Only good play by Sam Groves prevented Menston extending their lead before half time . Josh Morley was then carried off injured on 32 minutes for the home team. The final action of the half was when the tall Menston player ran through from midfield and only a finger tip save by Dan Bell prevented a further goal.

As in previous weeks, Rothwell improved in the second half with some strong running from midfield by Ben Scargill. Regan Fish who was impressive throughout the match had a shot saved by the visitor’s keeper. Rothwell were beginning to now dominate the game and numerous Reece Fennel corners resulted in further shots by Joe Bedford and Shaun Cale that were saved by the Menston keeper. On 8 minutes Menston doubled their lead with their only shot of the second half, finding its way into the Rothwell net for a 2-0 lead.

The remainder of the game was played in the Menston half but the defenders and the impressive keeper kept the home side goalless for the first time in the league this season as well as inflicting their first league defeat since last September.

A much improved performance will be needed on Thursday evening when Whitkirk are the visitors in the Semi Final of the Supplementary Cup.

Next Match - Thursday 23 April 6.15pm, Supplementary Cup Semi Final -Rothwell Athletic v Whitkirk Wanderers.

Sunday 26 April - Rothwell Athletic v Farsley Celtic.

Yorkshire Amateurs v Rothwell Athletic - 05 April 2009

Yorkshire Amateurs 2 Rothwell Athletic 2

Rothwell visited Yorkshire Amateurs on yet another sunny Sunday morning knowing another tough game lay ahead against a much taller home team.

The home side started the stronger and only good defending in the opening minutes by Brad Hoyle and Joe Ansboro prevented shots on the Rothwell goal. Yorkshire Amateurs did break through on 5 minutes and a good block by Dan Bell prevented the opening goal. Rothwell’s first attempt on goal came on 10 minutes when Sam Groves won the ball and played Joe Bedford through on goal but his shot was well blocked by the leg of the home keeper.

The opening goal came on 15 minutes when a goal kick was allowed to bounce and the centre forward was the first to the ball and finished well past Dan Bell for a 1-0 scoreline. Josh Morley and Sam Groves had shots that went wide after good play by Joe Ansboro and Jack Turner. Joe Bedford had a shot cleared off the line and Kieran Turnbull was dangerous throughout with his pace and link up play with colleagues. Sam Innes battled well in midfield throughout the first half, but poor finishing by Yorkshire Amateurs prevented them from increasing their lead further. Patrick Franklin and Shaun Cale had to use their pace to prevent danger on the right hand side of the pitch against the bigger Yorkshire Amateurs players. The second goal finally came on 33 minutes when a shot from distance found its way into the net for a half time score of 2-0 to the home side.

The transformation in the second half was similar to the Ossett game the previous Sunday. Reece Fennel had the ball in the net on 2 minutes, when he met a Kieran Turnbull cross, but it was disallowed for a marginal offside. The introduction of Joe Collinson and Regan Fish seemed to make the visitors more competitive in midfield and for the next 10 minutes Rothwell dominated the match. Sam Groves again played well throughout and his pass found Reece Fennel but his shot went wide of the far post. On 9 minutes Rothwell had a second ‘goal’ disallowed when Sam Groves forced the ball over the line following a Josh Morley corner but was disallowed for hand ball.

Rothwell were beginning to think it was going to be one of those days when they were never going to score but eventually the pressure paid off when on 15 minutes Josh Morley ran onto a lose ball 20 yards out and finished well into the corner of the net for a 2-1 score. Eight minutes later the game was all square when Kieran Turnbull sent Reece Fennel clear and despite the best attempts of the keeper he could not prevent the ball just crossing the line. Regan Fish was then fouled but Josh Morley’s free kick was saved well by the home keeper.

Yorkshire Amateurs then began to come back into the game and Jack Turner, Brad Hoyle and Joe Ansboro made some good tackles to prevent any further danger to the visitors goal.

As we entered the last few minutes both sides were looking for the winning goal in a match that seemed like a cup game with a draw not really any good to either side. There were chances at both ends firstly Joe Collinson was fouled and a Reece Fennel free kick was flicked into the air by the keeper and gathered at the second attempt.

Yorkshire Amateurs had the final chance of the game as we played the final minute of added time when a shot from 25 yards out just cleared the bar.

Again a draw was a fair result as Rothwell came back for the second game in a row to claim a point.

Man of the Match Joe Bedford

Next Match - 19 April - Rothwell Athletic v Menston Juniors

Ossett Town v Rothwell Athletic - Millennium Cup - Semi Final - 29.03.2009

Ossett Town 2 v Rothwell Athletic 1

The Millennium Cup Semi Final was played possibly on the hottest day of the year, at the impressive surroundings of Leeds United’s training ground at Thorpe Arch, the prize for the winners to play in the final against Farsley Celtic at Elland Road.

Rothwell started well and could have been a goal up after 30 seconds when a through ball by Joe Collinson sent Kieran Turnbull through on goal but his shot was blocked by the keeper, within a minute Josh Morley had a shot from distance that just cleared the crossbar.

Ossett began to come into the match and scored with their first attack on 5 minutes when an Ossett player ran onto a long ball and his cross was met at the near post by the centre forward and despite the best efforts of Dan Bell the shot went in off the crossbar. Ossett were now playing with confidence and were the better of the two sides. The second goal was not long in coming when on 12 minutes a throw was flicked on into the area, where from 8 yards out the attacker had an unchallenged shot which hit the back of the Rothwell net.

On 17 minutes a Josh Morley free kick landed 6 yards out but an unfortunate miskick by Rothwell gave the keeper a chance to dive on the loose ball. The remainder of the half was played in the Rothwell half as Ossett sensed a third goal before half time would probably seal the match, and only some last ditch tackling from Brad Hoyle along with a finger tip save by Dan Bell 5 minutes before the break prevented the third goal.

Nerves seemed to have got the better of a Rothwell team that turned in their worst half of football they had played all season for a half time score of 2-0 to Ossett.

As soon as the second half started it was a different Rothwell side, from the first whistle it was now Ossett on the back foot as Rothwell with Sam Groves now playing in a more forward role dominating the midfield alongside Regan Fish. A Reece Fennel corner on 3 minutes was met by a Joe Bedford header but the keeper saved well.

On the left side of the pitch Joe Ansboro and Regan Fish were trying to play the short passing game that has been successful for Rothwell this season, this lead to a number of breaks by Josh Morley who delivered a number of dangerous crosses and only fine defending prevented them finding the onrushing Rothwell forwards. Jack Turner who had defended well in the first half was now breaking forward down the right wing, and played a number of balls to Shaun Cale, who was crossing into the penalty area from the right hand side but again were well defended and cleared by the Ossett defenders. Brad Hoyle Patrick Franklin and Joe Ansboro made some timely tackles when Ossett tried to find their way into the Rothwell half

Further shots from Josh Morley and Sam Groves were saved or blocked with some last ditch tackling and on another day would have hit the back of the net. Keiran Turnbull ran onto a through ball from Regan Fish but the keeper was quick off his line to be first to the ball. It seemed as if Rothwell were never going to score but with 10 minutes left Reece Fennel was fouled on the edge of the area and Sam Groves stepped up to blast the ball into the back of the net for a 2-1 scoreline.

Reece Fennel then broke into the box and only a full length dive by the keeper prevented an equaliser and with a couple of minutes left the keeper diverted another Rothwell shot wide of the post for a corner after a fine ball played through by Sam Innes.

As the final whistle sounded it was Ossett who were celebrating. It was a case of ‘if only’ for Rothwell who gave their all in the second half as the Ossett keeper must have been their man of the match.

Rothwell still have the Supplementary Cup semi final to look forward to, and 9 league games to play before the end of the season.

Man of the Match - Jack Turner

Next Match - Wed 01 April -Woodkirk Valley v Rothwell Athletic 6.15pm

Sun 05 April - Yorkshire Amateurs v Rothwell Athletic

Leeds City Juniors A v Rothwell Athletic - Supplementary Cup 22.03.2009

Leeds City Juniors A 1 Rothwell Athletic 6

Rothwell travelled to Adel to play Leeds City Juniors A in the Quarter Final of the Supplementary Cup, against opposition who have won every league game played this season, and are champions elect of the 3rd Division.

The visitors played against the slope and strong breeze in the first half and not for the first time this season scored an early goal when on 2 minutes Ben Scargill broke through a static home team’s midfield and defence and finished confidently into the corner of the net from 12 yards out. The lead was short lived when within a couple of minutes the tall influential Leeds City Junior defender hit a free kick with the wind behind it and the ball flew into the corner of the net giving Dan Bell no chance.

It was not long before the visitors restored their lead when on 9 minutes Ben Scargill made another fine run from midfield. His pass picked out Reece Fennel who calmly lobbed the ball over the keeper from outside the area for a 2-1 scoreline.

Rothwell were now beginning to dominate the match, with Joe Collinson and Patrick Franklin having a strong games in midfield. Joe Ansboro then won the ball on the left and passed to Reece Fennel who ran down the wing, his first time cross was met by Kieran Turnbull whose shot just flew wide of the post. A few minutes later Sam Innes won the ball in midfield and played a clever pass to Reece Fennel who raced away and beat the keeper for 3-1 score to the visitors.

On 22 minutes the Leeds City Junior centre half and captain went off with a back injury that he seemed to pick up very early in the game. Moments later Joe Ansboro broke into the penalty area and passed to Keiran Turnbull who finished well past the home keeper for 4-1.

Leeds City Juniors were always dangerous with the long ball down the middle of the pitch, but again the centre half pairing of Sam Groves and Brad Hoyle kept the danger to a minimum with some excellent positioning and tackling. As we approached half time Rothwell Athletic won a succession of corners which resulted in Joe Collinson shooting wide and Patrick Franklin having a shot blocked by the defender.

Rothwell started the second half with the elements in their favour but it was Leeds City Juniors who had the first chance of the half when a dangerous cross had to be headed over his own bar by Sam Groves for a corner. The half time introduction of Josh Morley, Regan Fish and Shaun Cale gave the home team more problems with their skill and energy across the midfield as well as their link up play with colleagues.

Eight minutes into the half Jack Turner picked up a ball in his own half and hit a shot which bounced in front of the home keeper and over him into an empty net. Leeds City Juniors never gave up and only a timely clearance near his own line by Joe Ansboro prevented a second goal for the home side.

By now both sides realised it was easier playing into the breeze and up the slope, as once the ball bounced it raced away down the slope, much to the frustration of both teams. Rothwell coped the better of the two sides with their short passing game at least giving them a chance of keeping possession, rather than the home teams more direct style of play.

Josh Morley crossed the ball into the area on numerous occasions but the ball evaded the on rushing Rothwell players, and when Shaun Cale ran onto one cross the home keeper made an excellent save.

Shaun Cale was not to be denied and with less than 10 minutes left he ran onto a ball from midfield and finished confidently inside the near post for the final goal of the game.

Leeds City Juniors final chance came with 6 minutes left when a free kick bounced awkwardly in front of Dan Bell who did well to block the shot, the ball fell to the on rushing forward but Dan made an excellent block from close range to deny a consolation goal.

In the final stages of the game a Brad Hoyle free kick was met on the volley by Shaun Cale but his shot came back off the post. The final goal attempt came in stoppage time when Sam Groves ran through the tired home defence but dragged his shot wide.

Again another team effort for Rothwell in a well contested game.

Man of the Match - Joe Ansboro.

Next Match - 29 March - Millennium Cup Semi Final - Rothwell Athletic v Ossett Town, 4.00pm Thorpe Arch Training Ground.

Supplementary Cup - Semi Final - Rothwell Athletic v Whitkirk Wanderers

Millennium Trophy - Rothwell Athletic v Woodkirk Valley

Rothwell Athletic 1 Woodkirk Valley 0

On a bright sunny morning Rothwell hosted the Eastern Region Quarter Final of the Millennium Cup against league rivals and recent ‘bogey team’ Woodkirk Valley for a chance to play Ossett Town in the Semi Final at Thorp Arch.

Woodkirk Valley started strongly and Dan Bell had to race off his line in the first minute to clear a dangerous through ball in the Rothwell penalty area. On 3 minutes Josh Morley broke down the left wing but shot wide. On 5 minutes the tall Woodkirk Valley number 16 broke through the middle of the Rothwell midfield but was tackled well by Brad Hoyle who had another excellent game at the heart of the defence. The opening and ultimately winning goal came on 14 minutes when Josh Morley ran onto a bouncing ball on the right side of the midfield and from 25 yards out hit an unstoppable shot over the excellent Woodkirk Valley keeper for a 1-0 scoreline.

Reece Fennel on 18 minutes had a free kick from outside the area but unfortunately for the home team his shot just cleared the crossbar. Shortly after Woodkirk broke into the Rothwell penalty area and Dan Bell had to dive bravely at the feet of the Woodkirk forward to block his goal bound shot. In the final 10 minutes of the half Rothwell started to dominate with Ben Scargill producing another man of the match performance with his tackling and passing, including picking the ball up in midfield and running towards the Woodkirk goal where he shot from the edge of the penalty area, but with the goalkeeper beaten the ball hit the post and bounced to safety.

Joe Ansboro then won the ball and released Josh Morley who beat two defenders but shot wide of the far post under pressure. Shaun Cale was again dangerous on the right with Jack Turner playing well behind him. Regan Fish had an excellent game in midfield and never stopped running and tacking the taller Woodkirk midfielders.

After the break it was Woodkirk who pressed for the equaliser and for the first 15 minutes were marginally on top without creating many clear cut chances. Sam Groves again marshalled the defence of Jack Turner/Joe Bedford, Brad Hoyle himself and Joe Ansboro who were all quick into the tackle. Josh Morley again had an excellent game and was always dangerous with his skill and pace.

Keiran Turnbull who linked up play well with the midfield and Reece Fennel were beginning to stretch the Woodkirk defence with their movement and one of the Woodkirk defenders seemed to be constantly pushing and kicking both of the Rothwell forwards off the ball and had to be spoken to on more than one occasion by the referee. As we moved into the final 10 minutes Joe Bedford passed a ball to Shaun Cale who ran down the wing and cut into the area but his shot was saved by the keeper.

Joe Collinson, Patrick Franklin and Sam Innes came on with fresh legs and produced some good tacking and clearances for the home side. The main danger to the Rothwell lead came with 8 minutes left when Woodkirk won a free kick just outside the penalty area close to the goal line. With the majority of both teams in the Rothwell area the Woodkirk player hit a left foot shot towards the the far corner of the goal but Ben Scargill rose highest to head the ball into the air where Joe Bedford completed the clearance.

The final minutes were played in the Woodkirk half where Rothwell were happy to keep possession as the clock wound down. When the referee blew his whistle for full time it was greeted with cheers of relief from the home players and parents. Rothwell will now play Ossett Town at Thorp Arch on Sunday 29 March at 4.00pm.

The referee played the game with a smile on his face and did not stop play unless he had to, in a game that both teams were desperate to win and progress to the next round. Again the Rothwell victory was a squad victory with everyone contributing to the win.

Man of the Match - Ben Scargill

Next Match - 22 March - Quarter Final Supplementary Cup - Leeds City Juniors A v Rothwell Athletic. .

Rothwell Athletic v Whitkirk Wanderers 08 March 2009

Rothwell Athletic 3 Whitkirk Wanderers 1

On a blustery overcast morning Rothwell played hosts to Whitkirk Wanderers, in their first home league game since 28 September. Rothwell knew it would be a tough match to win based on the previous meeting earlier in the season.

Whitkirk started the game well without causing any danger to the Rothwell goal. As the home team started to get a foothold in the game Keiran Turnbull sent Josh Morley through on goal but his shot was blocked by the Whitkirk defender. After the first ten minutes Rothwell started to dominate the game without creating many clear cut chances against a very tall and well organised team.

On 14 minutes Ben Scargill hit a powerful free kick which the visitors goalkeeper parried out to Keiran Turnbull but his first time shot went wide of the post. Ben Scargill was again playing a captain’s role with his all round play and work ethic. Whitkirk were not making things easy and battled for every ball and were frustrating the home team, who could not get their normal passing game going. It seemed to be one of those games where every pass was either just too far in front or behind its intended target.

As we approached the half hour mark Shaun Cale broke through but shot wide. Just before half time Dan Bell had to make his first save of the match at his near post. The final action of a frustrating half saw another Ben Scargill free kick which the keeper managed to save.

Rothwell started the second half with more determination and a run from midfield past two Whitkirk players by Regan Fish, resulted with his pass finding Reece Fennel but unfortunately he could not hit the target. Seven minutes into the second half the breakthrough finally came when Reece Fennel turned outside the penalty area and sent a ball through to Keiran Turnbull who finished well from 8 yards. Rothwell were now playing with more freedom and were beginning to breakthrough the visitors defence more often than in the first half.

With 15 minutes left Whitkirk won a free kick at least 30 yards out in a central position but the player struck a brilliant shot that flew into the Rothwell net giving Dan Bell no chance.

With only 7 minutes left Joe Ansboro picked up the ball in midfield and beat three Whitkirk defenders as he made his way into the penalty area, where he was brought down for a penalty. Reece Fennel stepped up but hit the inside of the post and the ball ran across the line and out for a goal kick. Both players and parents felt resigned to the fact that the game was going to end in a draw.

Rothwell finally scored a deserved second goal with 5 minutes left when Reece Fennel latched onto a bouncing ball 20 yards out and crashed a shot into the back of the net. Three minutes later Josh Morley crossed in from the left to an unmarked Reece Fennel the Whitkirk keeper saved bravely but the ball broke to Keiran Turnbull who scored.

With the last action of the match Joe Bedford scored from 6 yards out, but was correctly ruled out for offside by the referee. At the final whistle it was relief that Rothwell had managed to secure 3 points against the resolute visitors.

Men of the Match - Ben Scargill & Kieran Turnbull

Next Match-Sunday 15 March - Millennium Cup Rothwell Athletic v Woodkirk Valley

Farsley Celtic v Rothwell Athletic 01 March 2009

Farsley Celtic 1 Rothwell Athletic 2

On a bright sunny lunchtime Rothwell travelled to Farsley Celtic for their first league game since 23 November, due to the inclement weather and Cup matches. Rothwell knew they would have to be at their best to have a chance of winning against the previously unbeaten league leaders.

Rothwell won the toss and played up the pronounced slope in the first half. The visitors started strongly and took the lead after only 3 minutes with a break on the left by Josh Morley. His through ball found Reece Fennel whose shot was blocked by the keeper but Keiran Turnbull was on hand to tap the ball into the unguarded net.

The visitors were definitely up for the game with the back four of Joe Bedford, Brad Hoyle, Sam Groves and Joe Ansboro first to every ball with some excellent tackling against the quick Farsley forwards. Shaun Cale and Josh Morley were causing trouble down the wings with their pace whilst Ben Scargill and Regan Fish battled for every ball in the centre of midfield, Keiran Turnbull and Reece Fennel were causing problems up front for the Farsley defenders with their movement. Dan Bell in goal was vigilant on any long balls that were played over the top of his defenders.

On 10 minutes Regan Fish sent a ball over the Farsley Celtic defenders for Reece Fennel to run onto, but the keeper parried his effort wide of the post for a corner. Ben Scargill then had a shot touched over the bar, Joe Bedford released Shaun Cale down the right wing but his shot on goal was blocked at the edge of the area by the tall defender. Farsley were always dangerous but the whole Rothwell team never gave them time to settle on the ball as they sensed this could be their day to cause an upset .

On 28 minutes Rothwell scored their second and ultimately winning goal when Joe Ansboro won the ball in defence, his pass sent Josh Morley down the left wing, where he crossed the ball to Keiran Turnbull whose shot hit the post but Shaun Cale was on hand to score from a tight angle.

Within 3 minutes Farsley had halved the deficit when an excellent free kick was headed into the back of the Rothwell net for a half time score of 2-1 to the visitors.

Rothwell began the second half with the elements in their favour, but it was Farsley who started the brighter and Dan Bell had to make a couple of smart saves. The defence stood firm with Sam Groves producing an excellent performance despite carrying an injury into the game.

Rothwell continued to be dangerous and Reece Fennel shot wide when played through by Regan Fish who was outstanding in midfield throughout the match. Rothwell then hit the crossbar following a free kick and subsequent scramble. Sam Innes came on to make his debut and shot wide on two occasions when played through by Ben Scargill whilst under pressure from the Farsley defenders.

Patrick Franklin and Joe Collinson played their part with some fine tackling in the closing stages as both sides tired due to the fast pace of the game.

As we entered the final 10 minutes there were few chances at either end as both defences were on top. When the referee blew his whistle for full time the visitors were delighted to have deservedly beaten an excellent Farsley team.

Both teams deserve credit for continuing to play good passing football on a poor pitch. The referee also had an excellent game allowing the advantage rule for both sides wherever possible.

Man of the Match - Josh Morley

Next Match - 08 March - Rothwell Athletic v Whitkirk Wanderers

Millennium Cup Quarter Final

Silsden v Rothwell Athletic

Silsden 0 Rothwell Athletic 3

Rothwell travelled to Silsden to take on the Cup Finalists from last season on a bright but windy morning, the pitch was surprisingly in good condition following the recent bad weather. Rothwell knew they would have to be at their best to progress to the semi finals against a tall and strong Silsden side and Rothwell did not disappoint in a game of contrasting styles. Silsden’s more direct style of play against Rothwell’s neat passing game.

Rothwell played with the slope but into the head wind in the first half and showed their intentions straight from the kick off when Reece Fennel broke from half way but shot wide. The opening goal came on 3 minutes when Ben Scargill found Josh Morley on the wing and his low cross was turned into the goal by Shaun Cale. Silsden created their first chance on 5 minutes but the danger was cleared by Brad Hoyle and Sam Groves who were both impressive throughout at the heart of the Rothwell defence. Rothwell then produced a flowing move involving Ben Scargill and Joe Ansboro whose pass found Josh Morley, his excellent cross was flicked wide of the post by Reece Fennel.

As the half progressed Joe Collinson playing in central midfield turned in a man of the match performance with his work rate and was involved in most of the good play Rothwell produced, ably assisted on this occasion by Ben Scargill and Regan Fish.

Joe Ansboro and Josh Morley were linking well down the left side with Jack Turner and Shaun Cale equally dangerous on the right. A Shaun Cale run and cross found Josh Morley but his first time volley cleared the bar. It seemed to be when rather than if Rothwell would score a second goal.

As the half came to a close Silsden had their first sustained pressure of the match. Jack Turner was alert to a couple of breaks from the Silsden midfielders and cleared any possible danger. The final action of the half involved Joe Ansboro tackling the Silsden forward as he ran into the penalty area and due to injury this was his last action of the match.

As the second half started the wind that was present in the first half seemed to have subsided. Rothwell started the second half brightly and Josh Morley cut in from the left and had a shot that the home keeper palmed over the bar. Shaun Cale then released Joe Bedford clear on goal but his shot was again pushed over the bar. From the resulting Reece Fennel corner Ben Scargill rose highest but could not direct his header on target.

At only 1-0 down Silsden started to come more into the game and were on top for a 10 minute spell. Dan Bell had to be alert to push a shot wide for a corner and made an instinctive one handed save that the referee blew up for a marginal offside. Jack Turner, Sam Groves and Patrick Franklin held firm against the robust Silsden forwards.

Brad Hoyle then broke out of defence and ran 50 yards with the ball, his final pass to Kieran Turnbull was blocked by the defender, but this seemed to lift Rothwell and they were soon attacking the Silsden defence with Kieran Turnbull showing his pace cutting in and shooting from the left wing.

With less than 10 minutes left Rothwell finally scored the second goal that their pressure deserved. Ben Scargill found Joe Bedford whose shot was well saved by the keeper but he palmed the ball out to Reece Fennel who finished from a tight angle for a 2-0 scoreline.

Joe Collinson then intercepted a pass and sent Kieran Turnbull clear but his shot was well saved.again by the home keeper. With 2 minutes left the third and final goal was scored when a Jack Turner pass was flicked up by Reece Fennel who turned and volleyed the ball into the corner of the net.

All 14 Rothwell players contributed to the win in a hard fought and keenly contested cup match, which was well refereed by the Official who let the game flow whenever possible.

Man of the Match - Joe Collinson

Next Match - Sunday 25 Jan - Rothwell Athletic v Collingham

Millennium Cup Semi Final - Sunday 15 Feb - Rothwell Athletic v Woodkirk Valley

Supplementary Cup 3rd Round

Rothwell Athletic v Wortley Juniors B

Rothwell Athletic 14 Wortley Juniors B 0

On a dry but windy morning Rothwell played their first game for a month due to postponements and the Christmas break against Wortley in the Supplementary Cup. The pitch was in surprisingly good condition following the recent inclement weather.

Rothwell dominated a one sided match from start to finish, with their superior movement, passing and speed.

The opening goal came on 5 minutes when clever play by Raheem Liburd sent Joe Bedford racing through on goal and he finished well from 10 yards out. Within a minute it was 2-0 when Brad Hoyle won the ball in midfield and passed to Ben Scargill who lobbed the keeper from outside the area. On 8 minutes Kieran Turnbull broke from midfield and slotted the ball under the keeper for a 3-0 scoreline and the game was effectively over.

The next goal came following a pass by Raheem Liburd which sent Kieran Turnbull clear of the static defence and he finished with a shot into the corner of the net. It was soon 5-0 when a good run by Joe Ansboro released Ben Scargill who beat the offside trap and his cross was tapped into an open goal by Shaun Cale. The occasional Wortley attack was dealt with effectively by Jack Turner and Brad Hoyle at the heart of the home defence.

On 20 minutes Raheem Liburd was found by a clever Patrick Franklin pass, he ran through on goal rounding the keeper but the Wortley No 4 made an excellent goal line clearance. Following a run by Joe Ansboro past a number of Wortley players his pass found Josh Morley whose shot from the edge of the box flashed wide of the post with the keeper beaten. With the last action of the half a good passing move involving Josh Morley and Reece Fennel resulted in a pass that sent Sam Groves through on goal for a 6-0 half time score.

Within a minute of the restart Sam Groves again ran free of the defence after a Shaun Cale pass, straight from the kick off Josh Morley scored with a shot into the corner of the net following good play involving Ben Scargill and Joe Bedford. Joe Collinson then made a strong tackle in his own half and after running towards the Wortley area sent a pass over the defence for Sam Groves to score and complete his hat trick.

Possibly the best goal of the game followed a Josh Morley corner that was headed out to Kieran Turnbull by the defender and from 20 yards out he smashed the ball into the net off the underside of the bar to also complete his hat trick Another well delivered corner from Josh Morley found Sam Groves in the 6 yard box and he stabbed the ball over the line for an 11-0 scoreline.

Reece Fennell then scored his customary goal when Ben Scargill beat a number of players and passed the ball into open space where Reece beat the defenders for pace and lashed the ball into the roof of the net.

The penultimate goal of the game involved a run down the wing by Patrick Franklin before he passed to Kieran Turnbull who scored his fourth goal of the game.

With the final action of the game Sam Groves also scored his fourth goal of the match. Dan Bell in the home goal will not have had a quieter game for a long time.

Next Match - Sunday 18 January - Millennium Cup - Silsden v Rothwell Athletic.

Supplementary Cup - 2nd Round

Rothwell Athletic v Stanningley Albion 14.12.08

Rothwell Athletic 3 Stanningley Albion 2

On an overcast but dry morning Rothwell played hosts to Stanningley on a heavy pitch due to the recent rainfall.

Rothwell started strongly and a good run and pass by Joe Ansboro found Reece Fennel whose shot was well saved by the keeper. Ben Scargill and Regan Fish also started confidently in midfield with their tackling and distribution of the ball to team mates.

It was somewhat against the run of play when Stanningley scored with their first attack of the game on 6 minutes, following the award of a free kick the ball was met unchallenged 10 yards out and a fine header into the corner of the Rothwell net giving Dan Bell no chance. Rothwell came back strongly and good play by Kieran Turnbull found Shaun Cale and under pressure from the defender his shot went over the bar.

The deserved equaliser was scored on 15 minutes when a cross from the right by Ben Scargill was met by an unmarked Reece Fennel and he guided his header into the net. Unfortunately due to injury this was the visitors keeper’s final action of the match.

Rothwell then went ahead on 20 minutes when Joe Collinson ran out of defence and sent a perfect pass to Reece Fennel who ran clear of the defenders and slid the ball under the keeper for a 2-1 score-line. A good tackle and run out of defence by Joe Ansboro found Josh Morley with a pass, he then beat the full back and sent over a excellent cross to Kieran Turnbull, but the substitute keeper made the first of several fine saves to prevent a goal.

Rothwell then lost the ball in midfield and Stanningley were unlucky when a run and shot from 20 yards out narrowly went wide of the post. This seemed to stir Rothwell into action and the home team started to dominate the remainder of the half on a pitch that was beginning to cut up badly in midfield. A run down the right wing by Shaun Cale resulted in a pass to Reece Fennel whose goal bound effort was blocked by a tackle by the defender.

Ben Scargill was again excellent in his central midfield role and was at the heart of most of Rothwell’s best moves. As we approached half time a run by Joe Bedford found Shaun Cale and his shot was again well saved by the keeper.

The beginning of the second half saw some excellent defending by Joe Collinson who prevented the Stanningley forward having a shot on goal. Jack Turner also used his pace on more than one occasion to stop any possible danger. Regan Fish again battled well in testing conditions in the centre of midfield and used the ball well to release Josh Morley and Shaun Cale, who both produced some excellent cross’s which on another day would have resulted in goals for Rothwell.

Both sides began to tire in the heavy conditions but with 15 minutes left Reece Fennel who had an excellent game latched onto a Kieran Turnbull ball and scored a deserved hat trick despite the best effort of the keeper to keep the ball out of the net. The best save of the match came with 10 minutes remaining when a right wing cross by Shaun Cale was met with a shot by Patrick Franklin that looked destined for the top corner of the net but the keeper tipped the ball onto the bar and out for a corner.

As we reached the final 5 minutes only an excellent tackle by Josh Morley prevented a shot on the Rothwell goal. With a couple of minutes left Stanningley won a corner and an excellent header found the back of the net despite the best efforts of Joe Ansboro on the line.

Rothwell went straight down to the Stanningley penalty area and a pass by Joe Bedford resulted in a penalty, when Reece Fennel was tripped in the area, but in the final action of the game he was denied a fourth goal when the keeper tipped the ball onto the cross bar which was subsequently cleared for a throw in following a scramble.

Man of the Match - Reece Fennel

Next Match - Sun 21 Dec Silsden v Rothwell Athletic

3rd Round Supplementary Cup - Sun 11 Jan- Rothwell Athletic v Wortley B

Wortley Juniors v Rothwell Athletic 23.11.2008

Wortley Juniors 1 Rothwell Athletic 5

On a sunny but freezing, windy lunchtime Rothwell visited old rivals Wortley Juniors who had won the corresponding fixture last season. Rothwell knew they would be in for a tough physical game on a heavy pitch after the recent inclement weather conditions and the previous game on the pitch that morning, which had made the pitch muddy in the midfield area as well as the 6 yard box’s. There was also the pronounced slope of the pitch to contend with, but it was the same for both teams.

Rothwell played with the wind in their favour in the first half which started off evenly. Brad Hoyle and Jack Turner thwarted the robust Wortley forwards on more than one occasion. Shaun Cale and Reece Fennel were causing problems to the tall Wortley defenders with their pace, but good defending by both sides prevented any shots on goal.

The opening goal came on 10 minutes when Ben Scargill who had another dominant performance in centre midfield found Reece Fennel who finished well beyond the outstretched hand of the goalkeeper. Rothwell only kept the lead for a few minutes when following a corner the ball ended up in the corner of the net for the equaliser somewhat against the run of play.

Joe Bedford who had an excellent first half won the ball in midfield following a goal kick and spotted the run of Reece Fennel, but this time the keeper blocked his shot. Minutes later a break from halfway by Joe Collinson found Reece Fennel his shot on this occasion came back off the keeper hit Keiran Turnbull but unfortunately for the visitors bounced to safety off the post.

Wortley were always dangerous with their more direct style of play, but Sam Groves who again was impressive throughout at the heart of the defence was equal to any danger either on the floor or in the air. He was well supported by Jack Turner and Brad Hoyle who both had excellent games.

As we reached the final 10 minutes of the half, Wortley were coming more into the game and from a free kick brave defending on the line by Joe Bedford prevented Wortley taking the lead, with the follow up deflected over the bar by Joe Collinson for a corner. Joe Bedford then headed off the line at the near post, and from the resulting scramble Dan Bell saved bravely at his near post. With a few minutes left of the half Josh Morley made an excellent tackle in his own area as the centre forward was ready to shoot on goal.

In the final minute of the half Rothwell broke out of defence through Reece Fennel he released Keiran Turnbull who scored at the second attempt for a 2-1 lead at half time.

Rothwell knew they would be in for a tough second half as the wind which seemed to be getting stronger was now in Wortley’s favour. Although it was Rothwell who scored the opening goal of the half after 8 minutes when a quick throw by Joe Ansboro was flicked on by Josh Morley to Ben Scargill who ran to the edge of the area and despite the best effort of the keeper the ball ended in the corner of the net for a 3-1 scoreline.

It was now Wortley’s turn to hit the woodwork as a shot from distance was helped by the following wind and Dan Bell did well to push the ball onto the bar which was then cleared from danger following a goalmouth scramble. Rothwell despite playing into the wind were now beginning to play to their strengths with crisp passing down both wings where the pitch was not quite as heavy and this was moving the tall Wortley defenders out of position, which resulted in Reece Fennel, Keiran Turnbull, Shaun Cale and Ben Scargill having shots saved by the impressive home keeper.

Rothwell scored what was the decisive fourth goal when a ball from midfield by Joe Ansboro released Keiran Turnbull and from 10 yards out he rolled the ball into the corner of the net. Rothwell by now were the dominant team with Regan Fish showing good vision to find Shaun Cale who again was denied a deserved goal by the keeper.

Some strong tacking by Wortley was beginning to come into the game as the players tired with Regan Fish Joe Ansboro and Josh Morley on the end of some of the tackles. Ben Scargill continued to keep the visitors going forward with his forceful runs and energy from midfield.

Sam Groves again defended well as Wortley played some long balls down the centre of the pitch towards the impressive number 7 as they looked for a consolation goal. Patrick Franklin also made some impressive tackles and forceful runs from right back in the closing stages.

It was the visitors who scored their fifth and the final goal of the game with 2 minutes left when good interplay by Joe Collinson and Regan Fish sent Shaun Cale through on goal where he was brought down by the defender. Sam Groves then stepped up to score his first goal for the club with a penalty into the top corner of the net.

The final score was probably not a true reflection of how close the game was, as the smaller Rothwell team had to battle well against a big and strong Wortley team.

The referee is to be commended for the way he allowed the game to flow, and played the advantage rule well for both sides and the key decisions he had to make in the game were correct.

Men of the match- Sam Groves & Brad Hoyle

Next match - 30 November - Rothwell Athletic v Yorkshire Amateurs.

Rothwell Athletic v Altofts 16.11.2008

2nd Round Millennium Cup

Rothwell Athletic 4 Altofts 2

On a bright but cold November morning Rothwell played hosts to Altofts in the 2nd Round of the Millennium Cup.

Rothwell started brightly and opened the scoring after only 2 minutes when a defence splitting pass from Jack Turner sent Reece Fennel free, he outpaced the Altofts defence and resulted in a trademark finish into the corner of the visitors goal.

Within a further 3 minutes Rothwell were 2- 0 up when a ball from midfield by Joe Collinson found Keiran Turnbull in lots of space, and he finished well when through one on one with the keeper.

With the game less than 10 minutes old a run across the 18 yard line by Kieran Turnbull released Ben Scargill into space and he did well to score from a tight angle for a 3-0 scoreline.

The next action of the half resulted in a goal for Altofts, when they broke with speed through the Rothwell midfield and the centre forward finished well despite the best efforts of Dan Bell to keep the ball out of the net.

Following a good tackle and run down the left wing, Joe Ansboro fed Josh Morley who beat the defender and sent a cross over to Reece Fennel but his shot on this occasion cleared the cross bar.

Altofts by now were beginning to gain a foothold in the game and only some excellent positioning and tackling by Sam Groves who was impressive throughout on his debut prevented possible further attempts on goal. He was ably assisted by Jack Turner who showed his pace to clear the danger on more than one occasion as the home team seemed to think the game was already won.

The final action of the first half saw Sam Groves release Reece Fennel on halfway he beat three defenders but unfortunately for Rothwell his shot went wide of the post.

At the start of the second half Rothwell returned to the passing game which is their strength, Shaun Cale caused problems down the right wing with his pace when on more than one occasion he beat the full back but was denied by the keeper. Regan Fish again gave a energetic display in midfield with some solid tackling and his willingness to run with the ball created problems for the Altofts players.

With 15 minutes left Regan Fish won the ball and sent a pass over the Altofts defence into open space, Ben Scargill ran onto the ball and kept his composure to make the score 4-1.

Altofts never gave up and within 2 minutes had reduced the lead to two goals again when on a rare foray into the Rothwell half, the ball ended up in the back of Rothwell net with a shot from the edge of the area. Joe Bedford and Brad Hoyle then thwarted the Altofts attackers as they sensed a possible third goal.

This never materialised and in the final 10 minutes it was Rothwell who were camped in the visitors half and should have added to their four goals but despite a number of chances the game finished 4-2.

A good solid team performance by Rothwell where every player contributed to the end result.

Next Match - 23 November - Wortley v Rothwell Athletic

3rd Round Millennium Cup - 21 December - Silsden v Rothwell Athletc