Seniors 2009/10

Double County Cup Success For Dials & C's Collect Point

Sunday October 4th

Old Boys first team had an early start, meeting up at 8.50am for the 10.30 Kick Off at Belper as Welcome Tavern of the Derby City Premier League hosted the 1sts in the DCFA Sunday Senior Cup.

On a long, narrow and steep slopping pitch, the Tangerines where given the advantage of kicking down the slope first and the day got worse as Furness withdrew from the squad just prior to team sheet deadline, due to injury.

Old Boys started slowly but Welcome never really threatened, other than long range efforts as the game fizzled out into half an hours worth of stalemate, the final 15 minutes of the half though swung into life, all in the favour of the forthers.

Ben Haye broke the deadlock with a well placed header on 29 minutes following good team work and then, well, the floodgates opened, Haye before half time had completed his hatrick, another well placed header and a cool finish when through one on one following excellent wing play from Seredynski.

In between, rare and enjoyable goals from unlikely sources, Paul 'Woody' Cooke and Ashley Scattergood both prodding home from close range to give the Old Boys a healthy 5-0 lead at the interval.

The second half, kicking uphill and in the knowledge of the big lead, Old Boys really took the foot off the gas and allowed a mini revival to the hosts, who managed to pull two back, one a dubious spot kick to leave the final score at 5-2 and send the lads through to Round 2.

The Reserves also had an away tie, albeit, much closer to home, a 2.00pm KO at Poolsbrook in the DCFA Junior Cup 1st Round.

Old Boys Ressies went on to produce a bit of an upset, disposing of their higher ranked opponents by 3-2, goals arriving from Thomas Roe with a brace and Shaun Goodwin to set up a memorable day in Ressies history, chalking up their first ever County Cup victory.

Old Boys 'C' hosted the Holmebrooked ones and came away with a point from Castle Leisure as the game ended 3-3. Old Boys goals arriving from Adam Barton, Alan Eggleston (jnr) & Kirk Cowley.

Furness Brace Seals Win, Ressies Lose, Cs 1st Win of Season

Sunday 27th September

The first team hosted Tibshelf Town, who were relegated from division one last term and it was the visitors who broke the deadlock in just 20 seconds, a simple ball over the top caught the Old Boys rearguard still in bed and despite a brave effort from Dom in the sticks, the ball crept over the line to make it 0-1.

Old Boys responded well and around half way through the first half Jack Weaver levelled matters when he rounded the last defender and keeper, slotting home in style.

The Old Boys enjoyed the lions share of possession but the Tibshelf back four and keeper held firm but just before the break Daley Furness was on hand to stab home to make it 2-1 to the dials at the break.

The second half was much the same with Old Boys dominating possession but Tibby always threatening on the break, Dominic Workman in the Old Boys sticks made a couple of very good saves before Furness wrapped up the points with an excellent drill from distance into the bottom right hand corner, leaving the keeper no chance.

Dale Briggs made a welcome return from injury to bolster the Old Boys rearguard whilst Joe Seredynski made more off an impression on his second game at this level, a good result and more importantly, a good performance from the dials.

The Ressies hosted Royal Mail and it was the postmen who collected their first win of the season, edging home by the odd goal in nine, Old Boys goals coming from Rushby, Roe, Todd and Cooke.

The Cs finally got some points on the board following a 3-2 home win over White Swan Reserves, Alan Eggleston Jnr and Jason De-Ville grabbing the decisive goals.

First Team Take Point On Road, Ressies Win and Cs Tumble

Sunday 20th September

Old Boys made a trip to Inkersall & Markham Athletic hoping to be the first team to take anything off the hosts.

On a terrible pitch it was Athletic who started brighter with an a long throw and long ball assault on the Old Boys rearguard.

Old Boys finally adjusted and took the lead before the break when Ben Haye followed up on a Furness strike to poke home the rebound.

The second half was an even affair and Old Boys doubled their advantage when Furness thundered home a header from a corner and Old Boys looked to be on their way.

Athletic though, had other ideas and a lapse in concentration by the linesman saw Athletic reduce the arrears when clearly offside to make it 1-2.

Athletic, buoyed by this goal took control of the last 15 minutes and it wasnt exactly a surprise when they levelled when one of those enormous long throws caused too much havoc and resulted in a scrambled goal.

Furness could have stole it late on but a whipped in cross saw Furness blaze over the bar, all in all, probably a fair result in the end, an entertaining 2-2 draw.

The Ressies went to Woodthorpe Inn and collected 3 more points as a goal from Rushby and a Hatrick from Tom Roe was enough to record a 4-2 success.

The Cs poor start continued as they went down 0-3 at league new boys Renishaw Miners Welfare, leaving the Cs pointless after 3 games.

1sts WIN OVERSHADOWED BY INJURY TO NATHAN DRAYNER

Sunday Sept 13th

Old Boys firsts looked to put behind them a first day mauling at Hepthorne Lane as they entertained Inky FC.

First half goals from Daley Furness with a brace, including a cracking header and a Jack Weaver strike gave Old Boys a first half lead of 3-1.

Furness completed his hatrick early in the second half to make it 4-1, before Jack Weaver netted his second from the Penalty sport to make it five, Bradley McArdle making his full league debut finished the scoring for Old Boys before Inky pulled one back to make it 6-2.

On a very, very sad note, Old Boys young and impressive centre half, Nathan 'Nip' Drayner was involved in an accident later that evening which has resulted in him being laid up in Sheffield Northern General with serious injuries.

All at the club wish Nathan all the very best of luck in his battle with recovery, were all thinking of him at this sad time, our thoughts are also extended to Julie & Paul, Nathan's parents and of course the rest of his family and friends.

The Reserves had a stinker at home going down 0-4 at home to Butchers Arms, whilst the C's fared even worse, going down 2-7 at Castle Leisure Park.

RESERVES OFF TO FLIER, 'C's PIPPED AT THE POST, 1sts HEAVILY BEATEN

Sunday Sept 6th

The Sunday League season got underway with all 3 Old Boys teams hitting the road.

The first team will want to forget their debut in Division 2 quite quickly as a very understrength team went down heavily at Hepthorne Lane. Missing Weaver through suspension, Briggs & Rich through injury and having lost Taylor at short notice, the central midfield saw a centre half and centre forward taking the reigns.

Old Boys, despite the scoreline started the brightest and created a number of half chances before a two goal in two minutes blitz knocked the Old Boys off their perch, James Taylor did pull one back to give Old Boys hope and again, the tange faired quite well and could and should have been level.

Lane however, increased their lead when a shot was deflected to make it 3-1 at the break, a scoreline which flattered Lane.

If the half time scoreline flattered Lane, the second half was totally different as Lane absolutely dominated from the off, when they went 4-1 to the good the Old Boys more or less gave up the game as a contest and soon went 7-1 down when a mixture of horrendous defending and individual errors where punished, highlighting the difference in the standard of finishing in this league to previous seasons at the leagues mid and lower echelons.

Daley Furness still had one chance however to score a great individual goal which was merely scant consolation for the Old Boys, who, played fairly well in the first half but where outclassed in the second.

The Old Boys will want to put this one behind them as soon as possible and hopefully the larger named players will be back shortly. Thanks to all that turned up to make up the numbers without complaint and a special mention to poor old Luke Ireson who broke his ankle in the very last minute of the match and was in severe pain. Get well soon Luke.

The Reserves, in complete contrast, made an excellent start to their Division 7 campaign, winning 8-2 at Grassmoor Sports Reserves.

Joe Serendynski led the way with a hatrick and Paul Cooke grabbed a brace.Craig Taylor who found the drop in divisions easy going also grabbed a brace from midfield whilst Tom Roe netted on his Old Boys League debut and a resounding victory for the dials was had.

The 'C's where left bemused and fuming on their opening day trip to Chesterfield Phoenix.

Eggys men led through a strike from Jamie Lockwood and where still in the lead on 91 minutes.

However, after 98 minutes??? The hosts had netted two to snatch the points leaving the Old Boys staff on the sidelines gawping at their watches in disbelief.

Next up, 1st Home to Inky, Ressies Home to Butchers Arms and 'C's Home to Boythorpe.

ROWTHORNE v OLD BOYS 1st - Friendly 05/08/09

Old Boys turned up with 16 strong squad but two or three players still absent to take on neighbours Rowthorne Lane at Palterton MW.

A physical game unfolded but it was Old Boys who took the lead when Anto Stray was bundled over in the box by the home keeper and Jack Weaver calmly slotted home from the spot.

Another spot kick materialised and was hot disputed as Nip Drayner was very harshly judged to have committed a foul and the Rowthorne man smashed his penalty high and wide, further confusion as the referee allowed him to take the spot kick again, this time he buried it to make it 1-1.

Just before the break, very quick thinking by Jack Weaver saw Anto Stray through on goal and he shimmied the keeper to put the dials 2-1 to the good.

The second half saw Rowthorne level once more when a mix up at the far post saw their man tap home to make it 2-2.

Old Boys again pepped up a gear and Furness & Taylor both had good opportunities but lacked their usual composure.

Anto Stray bore down on goal and whipped in a fierce cross come shot which deflected home to make it 3-2 before Rowthorne and their never say die attitude saw them level yet again with a wonderful strike, a neat exchange of passes on around 25 yards and their man smashed home an unstoppable effort into the top left hand corner.

In the dying minutes Old Boys nicked the win when a through ball saw the home keeper leave his line but Anto Stray got there first and delivered an absolute peach of a lob to make it 4-3 to the dials at full time and saw Anto register his TENTH strike in the last 3 pre season fixtures!

A useful excercise for Old Boys as manager Bradley used the opportunity to place several usual starters on the sidelines at the start of play and look at different players in different positions, with the back four changing around half a dozen times and all players getting a run out in the end.

Next up a home friendly v Poolsbrook at thy Rodents Den, Sunday KO 10.45am, all meet at 10.00am.

Old Boys 1st v ABM Birdholme WMC - Friendly 02/08/09

Old Boys welcomed old friends and last seasons Division 2 Champions to Moor Lane in this latest friendly and the Div 1 newcomers put Old Boys on the rearguard straight away with a succession of corners and pressure being applied.

Old Boys countered well however and despite the visitors enjoying the bulk of possession and play, the dials looked dangerous on the break.

It was the visitors that took the lead when a far post cross was not dealt with and their forward tapped home. Old Boys veteran Blakemore dealt reasonably well with ABM dangerman Barber, despite this, Barber was always a threat, turning one way and another and always seeming to find one of his partners in crime.

Against the run of play, Old Boys levelled, a through ball saw Anto Stray through on goal and a delightful lob over the advancing keeper to make it 1-1.

Midway through the second half Old Boys took the lead when the visitors keeper spilled a cross leaving Anto Stray with a simple 1 yard tap in to register his seventh in two games.

A neat move towards the end of the game saw the visitors level to make it 2-2 which was just reward for their efforts as ABM had clearly been the better of the two sides on this particular day, Old Boys should take heart from soaking up much pressure and gaining a draw against higher league opponents.

Old Boys Res v Brampton Manor - Friendly 02/08/09

Old Boys Reserves hosted and beat Brampton Manor 6-0 and should anyone care to give a more detailed summary of the game then please feel free to email the Webmonster on jamiebolsover@msn.com as he has been given no details on this game apart from Jason Cann delighted the crowd with a brace, the first of which was a thunderous volley.

RESERVES v RENISHAW MW - Friendly 29/07/09

The Fox trotters entertained league new boys Renishaw MW, who arrived with a squad bolstered by a handful of their Saturday players.

The Ressies started well and took the lead on around 10 minutes when Ben Haye hit a peach of a strike from the edge of the box finding the top corner.

A fast game, end to end unfolded and the visitors levelled before the break when some slack defending let their man in, who still had some work to do but finished well, drilling home to give Hepworth no chance.

The second half saw The Dials make numerous changes throughout and Renishaw gained the upper hand and momentum, they took the lead when again a mix up at the back let their forward stroll home and shortly after the visitors went 1-3 ahead with a well taken goal.

The Ressies pulled one back late on when substitute Serendynski broke clear of the visitors back four and finished well to make the final score 2-3. A good workout for both teams.

1ST TEAM v CLOWNE WANDERERS - Friendly 26/07/09

Old Boys took the field with a starting eleven that saw the oldest player on the park being just 26 and the two centre halves being just 17.

Clowne arrived with a mixed bag of firsts and reserves and proved no match for our boys in the first half as the team went on the rampage.

Early in the game, Anto Stray slotted to make it one zip, to cut a long story short, Anto Stray went on to grab another FOUR in the first half and Jack Weaver capped a fine first half performance to make it 6-0 at the break.

Other positives where the performance of both centre halves Blake Eggleston & Nathan Drayner who showed maturity that belied their tender years, Furness as usual caused havoc on the floor and in the air alike and Dale Briggs and Craig Taylor complimented well in the middle with Tom doing well out wide, Dom in goal handled superbly when called upon.

The second half saw Old Boys really step down a gear or two and Clowne pulled a goal back, deservedly so on their second half improvement to make it 6-1.

In the final seconds Ant Stray broke clear and lobbed the keeper for what would have been his sixth of the game, a double hatrick, but... the referee blew for full time just prior to the ball crossing the line to leave Anto somewhat bemused.

RESERVES v NORTH STAR - Friendly 26/07/09

The Ressies entertained local rivals North Star for a first ever meeting over 90 minutes between the two sides and a close game unfolded that made short the divisional differences between the sides.

Andrew SIGGY Sigona scored a rare goal, from distance and somewhat helped by indifferent goalkeeping.

Shaun Jones levelled for the Starred ones just on half time.

The Ressies however, pulled off the win when Benjamin Haye netted in the second half to make it 2-1 to the home side, well, both sides play on the same pitch, so 2-1 to the Ressies.

OLD BOYS FRIENDLY SUNDAY 19th JULY

Old Boys Firsts hosted Old Boys 'C' at Bolsover Town SC and the firsts included several trialists and a couple of Reserves and the C's also where a little short staffed as some of their regulars where away.

Sugar deputised in goal for the injured Dom, whilst Luke Bradbury started out wide, an unusual centre midfield partnership saw Dale Briggs & Daley Furness start in such role with Weaver and Stray up front for the firsts.

A lively, competitive game started well for both sides and it took a while for either side to test the keepers and eventually it was the first team that took the lead when Daley Furness drilled home and his shot deceived Rhodes in the 'C's goal.

The C's levelled shortly afterwards when Jamie Lockwood netted from the spot following an infringment by 1st team debutant Nathan Drayner, who went on thereafter to have an impressive game at centre half.

The C's took the lead about 25 minutes in when Alan Eggleston Junior pounced on a through ball and slotted under Sugar in the sticks, there followed a collision which left Sugar injured but he valiantly struggled on in goal until half time.

Daley Furness levelled shortly after, he bore on goal, his shot hit the post but he was quickest to the rebound and tapped home.

The firsts took the lead when debutant Tom Marshall went on a classy run before unleashing an unstoppable ferocious strike to make it 3-2.

Jack Weaver then did likewise to make it 4-2 before the break.

Bradbury went in goal for five minutes before Mark Hepthorne became another club deputant in goal to replace the injured Sugar.

The second half panned out with both sides making many changes, Mozz having a short run in certral defence before trying his hand in central midfield, the C's doing likewise. Only one more goal arrived when Rhodes misjudged a cross and spilled and Dale Briggs tapped home from close range to make it 5-2.

A good workout for both club sides with the proper friendlies starting next week.

Seniors Tournament News

What a scorcher of a day and one which proved a total success. The club would like to thank many people, first and foremost the tournament sponsors, Robert Bowring Butchers (Daz Watts) and Raffle Sponsor KC Arts who donated such wonderful and generous gifts. Also 'Ado' Woodward for once again supporting the club in such a generous manner.

Saturday saw a good number of Reserve players and club officials mucking in, in respect of getting the ground fit for football and almost a full days work put in, thank you all. Also to Amy and Verity for doing the posters 'darn boza'.

Sunday saw many a folks sweating over a red hot BBQ, Paul, Diane, Jess, Richard, Amy, Paula, Carrie, Ginny, thank you all. Thanks to Julie and Amy for doing the Tombola and raffle stall and Gail for once again proving a gem in the fundraising stakes and pushing the raffle to its limits during and after. Richard for geneously donating a gas BBQ to the club and Steve for doing the results/tables job, thank you all.

To Bolsover Town Social Club for staging the event, to the Black Bull for providing evening entertainment and every one that helped litter pick after the event, to the referees and the teams involved and finally to the Public of Bolsover for attending and supporting the event and making it such a success, thank you all.

The Third Bolsover Old Boys FC Annual Football Tournament and Gala Day 05/07/2009

Seniors Match Results and Tables

Round 1

Dronfield District Albion 1 v 0 North Star

Brimwood U18s 1 v 1 Bolsover Old Boys C

Quorn Royals 0 v 1 Bolsover Old Boys

Bolsover Old Boys Res 4 v 0 White Swan Res

Round 2

Dronfield District Albion 2 v 0 Brimwood U18s

North Star 0 v 0 Bolsover Old Boys C

Quorn Royals 1 v 1 Bolsover Old Boys Res

Bolsover Old Boys 4 v 1 White Swan Res

Round 3

Dronfield District Albion 2 v 1 Bolsover Old Boys C

North Star 2 v 1 Brimwood U18s

Quorn Royals 1 v 0 White Swan Res

Bolsover Old Boys 2 v 0 Bolsover Old Boys Res

Final Group Table A:

Final Group Table B:

Cup Semi Finals

Dronfield District Albion 6 v 0 Bolsover Old Boys Res

North Star 0 v 1 Bolsover Old Boys

Trophy Semi Finals

Bolsover Old Boys C 1 v 1 White Swan Res

White Swan Res won 4 2 on penalties after full time.

Brimwood U18s 0 v 1 Quorn Royals

Cup Final

Dronfield District Albion 1 v 2 Bolsover Old Boys

Trophy Final

White Swan Res 1 v 1 Quorn Royals

Quorn Royals won 10 9 on penalties after full time.

Cup Winners: Bolsover Old Boys

Previous Winners:
2008: North Star
2007: Angel Hotel

Trophy Winners: Quorn Royals

Previous Winners:
2008: Bolsover Old Boys
2007: Boythorpe

Seniors 2008/09

1sts Cement Top Two Finish, Ressies Finally Lose

Sunday 26 April

Old Boys firsts travelled to Brampton Anchor knowing a win would seal at least a runners up slot and never really looked in any trouble throughout.

Skipper Gough was unavailable so youngster, Blake Eggleston, braveley stepped in to fill his boots and performed brilliantly.

The deadlock was broken early doors when Graham Travis broke through the home defence and smashed a shot into the top right hand corner.

Not long later, but after a host of missed chances, it was that man again, Graham Travis who doubled his and the dials tally when he headed home from close range.

Chances where being wasted at an alarming rate by the Old Boys and it was some time before the third arrived, Jack Weaver hit a peach of a ball to James Taylor who cut inside their full back and despatched a beauty of a lob to make it 3-0.

Ant Stray smashed home a thirty yarder just before the break to make it 4-0.

A lack lustre second half display saw no further goals in a game that the Old Boys could and should have really racked up double figures.

Credit to Anchor who never gave up and where clearly playing an under strength team due to players missing in their camp.

The result guarantees that the Old Boys firsts will see a final placing of runners up as it will take a miracle for Laburnum to let slip a 14 goal advantage over two games!!

Congratulations to Laburnum who are realistically the Champions and having done the double over us and maintained their excellent run in they are worthy Champions.

The Reserves suffered their first defeat in what seems an age as they bravely went down one nil at Champions elect and unbeaten Brampton Peacock, a good performance probably warranted more reward but the Reserves should take extreme pride at their run over the past ten weeks or so.

Reserves Hit Red Lion For Six

Tuesday 21st April

The Ressies continued their excellent recent form by hitting the normally resolute Red Lion defence for five in this mid week encounter.

Bolstered by the appearance of Scattergood and Craig Taylor from the first team the Ressies took the game to their opponents from the off and goals from Paul Retallic TWO, Ben Haye, Michael Blakeley, Paul Cooke and Tony Clarke saw the comprehensive result finish at five goals to one.

1sts Promoted, Ressies Form Continues, Cs Lose Final Game

Sunday 19th April

It was a huge fixture for the first team as they made the short trip to Barlborough to face promotion rivals Apollo.

Apollo needed a win in this, their final fixture to take them above the Old Boys in pole position, Old Boys needed a point to secure promotion and guarantee a top 3 finish.

The game never really lived up to the expectations although it was a fiercely contested affair with little ground given.

Apollo started with much possession but little in the way of penetration, Old Boys attacked rarely but when they did, it was much more threatening than their opponents.

Stray, playing his first match for the team in three months had replaced the injured Furness in the team and Stray thundered a shot just over the bar early doors.

Dewberry, back in goals after a few weeks absence performing well and dealing with anything the hosts threw into the box. Apollo, clearly the more aggressive of the two teams saw a booking early doors and a horrendous challenge on Craig Taylor went unpunished.

Old Boys won a corner, the delivery was weak but created panic in the home rearguard and James Taylor reacted quickest to put the Old Boys in front.

Just before the break Apollo where threw a lifeline when the ref pointed to the spot following a rash challenge and their man hammered home to make things level at the break, although Jack Weavers brilliant free kick deserved better just before the break when it smashed against the upright.

Early exchanges in the second half saw the Old Boys well in command and Weaver in particular tormenting the back four, Weaver hit a post and minutes later struck the post again and the ball clearly went over the line before their defender scooped it out of the net, all Old Boys celebrated but the ref was given no assistance from the line and the goal did not stand.

James Taylor picked up an injury and was replaced by Jonny Mac up front, Old Boys continued to pepper but as the game grew on it looked like it was going to be one of those days.

The last 15 minutes saw Apollo regain the momentum and Old Boys went from being in command to hanging on, Dewberry pulled off a fantastic double save late on to deny their man as the game finished 1-1, enough to see the Old Boys guaranteed a top three finish whilst Apollo now wait on Laburnum and Elmton Road results to see if they finish in the top three.

The Reserves continued with their impressive form, winning the sixth game from seven starts, demolishing Lowgates 5-1 in their final home game at the Den of Rodents.

A goal from the impressive Michael Blakeley was added with a brace from the Polish sharp shooter, Joe Seredynski, the ever green Paul Cook weighed in with another to his tally and was round off with a goal from Paul Retallic.

If the Reserves can pull off a win at faltering Red Lion on Tuesday night they will be looking good for a possible top four finish.

Eggys C Team finished their season with a trip to Masons Arms and despite goals from Steve Jones and Jordan Shearan they ran out 4-2 losers and will finish the season in a mid table berth.

The Ressies trip to Brampton Red Lion on Tuesday and sign off with a trip to Championship chasers and undefeated Brampton Peacock next Sunday whilst the First Team round off their successful season with a trip to Brampton Anchor.

Ressies & C's Gain Point Apiece In Tough Away Midweek Trips

Russ Foxs Ressies made the trip to Sharley Park to face Nags Head Clay Cross in what was always going to be a tough trip and drafted in Craig Taylor and Martin Dewberry from the 1sts to lend a hand.

The Ressies started wobbly and the first clear cut chance fell the way of the hosts when their forward found himself free and luckily he blazed wide.

The Ressies finally settled and graudually gained the momentum and took control of the game, Debwerrys long kicks causing panick amongst the Crossed ones back line.

A goal finally arived and it was a corker, good work down the dials left resulted in several passes before the ball was laid on for Joe Seredynski who crashed an unstoppable drive into the far right hand corner, the one nil scoreline remaining intact until half time.

With the dials in the lead and playing relatively comfortable in the second half, all were confident that points would be picked up, Tallic, Cooke had good chances but the home keeper was in great form.

Cross levelled midway through the half when their man stroked home following a mix up but the dials upped the tempo again.

Several half chances where created but the game fizzled out to a draw in a game that the Old Boys feel they may just have shaded, a useful away point none the less.

Eggberts C's faced a daunting trip to Div 8 league leaders and local rivals Ace of Clubs and took along Ant Stray to both bolster the C Team and also give Ant his first run out in several months following an injury lay off.

Ant Stray required just three minutes to register his name on the scoresheet.

A highly entertaining game unfolded which eventually saw six goals shared between the two sides as Jamie Lockwood and Matt Jessop also found their way to goal.

Some hot disputed decisions along the way saw two dials see red, Manager Eggbert and keeper De-Ville received their marching orders for protesting when they felt an infringment on the keeper had been ignored.

A useful point once again and one that the C Team would have enjoyed more than the hosts who desperately needed three points to maintain their title push.

Whilst the 1st team had no game, they did move a step closer to promotion without kicking a ball as second placed Apollo received a 5-0 reverse at form team Elmton Road.

Sundays game between Apollo and The 1st Team is likely to be a feisty affair with all to play for and one cannot discount Elmton Roads own promotion push following several straight victories and thirteen goals scored in their last two games.

Furness Brace Sees C's Home

Sunday 12th April

With the Ressies and Firsts not in action, C Team boss, Eggy, took advantage and brought in first teamer Daley Furness to strengthen the ranks in a move that proved match winning.

An bright start by the Old Boys saw several chances go begging before the deadlock was broken as a mix up in the visitors defence saw Daley Furness prod home to make it 1-0.

A mix up later by the home defence saw the Ranched ones level as Richardson played a tame ball across his own box which was punished by the visitors to make it 1-1.

Two bizarre goals so far following defensive mix ups and an even more bizarre one was to regain the Old Boys advantage when a North Wingfield man sliced into his own goal when seemingly under no pressure.

Half time remained at 2-1 and then midway through the second half, Old Boys went 3-1 to the good when Furness rose highest in the box to head home well for his brace and Old Boys third.

There was time for one more piece of bizarre football when Ranch were awarded a spot kick and their winger blazed miles wide, the result leaves the C's in 4th place going into Tuesdays game at locals and champions elect, Ace of Clubs.

The Ressies with no game held on to third place as Red Lion and Poolsbrook shared the points, however, the Ressies will no doubt have to win all their remaining games to stand a chance of third slot in the table.

The firsts had their lead at the summit of three cut down to just the solitary point as Apollo triumphed 2-0 at Badger to close the gap, this sundays clash between the firsts and Apollo will now prove pivotal in both clubs season.

Late Winner Leaves Firsts On Verge Ressies Notch Up Fifth Straight Win Cs Complete Old Boys Treble

Sunday 5th April

Old Boys firsts travelled to Chesterfield Town looking to maintain their promotion push. The starting eleven from the Star victory was retained and Old Boys dominated the first half from start to finish.

Constant pressure finally told when Daley Furness rose like a salmon, unchallenged and headed home a Craig Taylor corner midway through the half.

On 35 Jack Weaver hit a magnificent volley to make it 2-0 and seemingly put the game to bed.

At half time the common thought was that a similar second half would bring just rewards and for the first 15 minutes or so Old Boys carved open Town at will but a string of chances went begging.

Chesterfield Town pulled a goal back when a break down the flanks saw a first time cross met with ease to reduce the arrears.

This set back clearly unsettled the previously untroubled Old Boys and Town mounted a series of attacks that saw the Old Boys jittering, it came as no surprise when the leveller arrived 15 minutes from time when a Rhodes clearance fell kindly to a Town man and he drilled home from a full 35 yards into the empty goal to make it 2-2.

To their credit, the Old Boys pepped up and mounted their own attacks with Chesterfield Town also countering, it could now go either way.

With just a couple of minutes on the clock a Weaver corner to the far post found Furness who headed home to make it 3-2. A nervy few final minutes was seen out as Old Boys collected their three points to take them to a within a whisker of a mathematical guaranteed top three finish and in all reality should make it as the top four sides all clash at some point between now and the end of the season.

The Reserves notched up an impressive fifth straight over Nags Head Clay Cross at The Rodents Den in a fierce, close encounter.

A poor start saw the visitors take the lead in the first ten minutes when slack defending let their striker beat the offside trap to put the crossed ones a goal to the good.

The early wake up call was taken on board and the Ressies responded well, a neat move saw Joe Serendyski finish in a tidy manner to make it 1-1.

The lead didnt last long however as their striker weaved past Brush & Goodwin before slotting home to restore the visitors lead.

Old Boys however, responded well again and where level before the interval when a goalmouth scramble saw the ball drop to Chris Capuano who prodded home to make it 2-2 at the break.

The second half materialised into a tight battle with both sides going for the points, it was the Fox Trotters who edged it though when Michael Blakeley rose above the home defence to head home the winner and put a bit of daylight between The Ressies and The Nags before the two sides clash again later in the month.

The win moves The Reserves into third place but the other sides around have games in hand so a tight finish looks likely and the Ressies must go looking to win every fixture in an effort to get promoted.

The C Team completed a good day for Old Boys as they travelled to Dronfield Miners.

Another tight game unfolded and only a solitary strike settled the match with Old Boys Steve Jones doing the damage to move the Cs up to fourth after the mid week points adjustment, although the teams around have many a game in hand.

Next week sees just the C Team in action as Ranch Rovers are hosted at Castle Leisure whilst the 1sts and Ressies have a weekend off.

SENIORS SAY 'THANK YOU' TO KEV WHITE

Kev White has donated 100 of Britains finest sterling in the form of match ball sponsorship and all at the club would like to place on record their thanks.

It has proved more difficult than ever this past season to raise funds, with fewer people out socialising due to the economic climate, fundraising card sales have decreased so this latest donation is most welcome.

Kev will be named as the Senior teams match ball sponsor for the remainder of this season and season 2009/10.

Thank You

DIALS SEE OFF STAR IN DERBY - RESSIES HIT 7

Sunday March 29th

It was a Bolsover Derby on the morning after the skippers Stag Dou and one or two entered the field worse for wear.

Skipper Goffy, shook hands with the opposition and the game commenced but he had to be subbed after several minutes.

A dull opening saw very little created by either side and the game lacked the usual passion you would expect in a game of this nature.

Old Boys eventually took the lead when Taylor delivered an excellent cross which was met by the hangover head of Daley Furness who finished with relative ease at the far post.

Star then got the upper hand towards the end of the first half and could have levelled when their shot struck the foot of the post.

The half time break seemed to pep up the dials as they started the second period in much brighter mood.

James Taylor struck early in the half to make it 2-0 and give the dials some breathing space, the game remained at 2-0 until the 78th minute when an avalanche of goals materialised.

Star reduced the arrears to 2-1 when Hadge struck the underside of the bar with a well taken free kick and the ball appeared over the line but their forward bundled home the rebound just in case.

Old Boys to their credit didnt look like worrying as almost immediately Liam Smith hit a long ranger that hit the bar, then the keeper and went in to make it 3-1.

The game looked dry but once again Star pressured and where awarded a penalty which was despatched to bring the game back to 3-2.

James Taylor rattled home his second of the game to make it 4-2 and at that point Daley Furness was finally allowed to leave the field after nagging to come off throughout the second half with him suffering the hangover!

On came ex Star man Jamie Lockwood and with just minutes to spare, Weaver went on a run down the flank before unselfishly crossing for Jamie Lockwood to notch the fifth with his only touch of the game.

The Whistle went immediately afterwards to signal the end of long morning for several off the first team who were clearly struggling in their fight against their ale soaked guts.

The Reserves continued their excellent recent form by travelling to AFC Grouse and hitting seven.

There was two braces, for Michael Blakely & Chris Capuano and one each for Joe Seredynski, Paul Retallic and Bony, sorry Tony Clarke.

Next week sees the firsts travel to Chesterfield Town, The Reserves host Nags Head Clay Cross and The Cs resume action at Dronfield Miners.

Old Boys Quick Fire Starts See Points Home C Team Hit Six At Winster

Sunday 22nd March

Old Boys 1sts travelled to fourth placed Inky Club, looking to avenge an early season defeat and knowing there was little room for error in a tight promotion race.

As for getting off to a good start, this one must have verged on a record, from the kick off a ball was played wide and Jack Weaver collected and smashed into the bottom corner to make it 1-0 after just eight seconds, the goal timing being confirmed by the referee.

Old Boys dominated the early exchanges and had a fair few half chances which went begging, the hosts threatened too on the odd raid and came close when their man headed over from close range but there was no further net bulging in the first forty five.

There was never going to be quite an explosive start to the second half was there.. well, it wasnt for the want of trying, a short pass or two after gaining possession saw Weaver cleverly play in James Taylor who fired the Old Boys into a two goal lead with thirteen seconds on the clock following the restart, bizarre indeed.

The Old Boys, missing both centre halfs Goffy & Blakemore saw Briggs move to central defence and Johnny Rushby move up from the Reserves, both had good, effective games and Rushby notably made the leap up the divisions with comparative comfort.

Old Boys now really dominating the game and the only surprise was that it took so long for the third to arrive when a Craig Taylor corner was attacked by Daley Furness who headed home to make it three,

Next up is another game with no room for error, the short trip to local rivals North Star.

The C Team travelled into the depths and hills that be Winster and came up against a side still looking to record a point this season, Egglestons boys made light work winning by a margin of 6-1, Steve Jones rattled home the bulk of the goals, hitting four whilst Alan Eggleston (Jnr) hit one and an own goal making up the tally.

A sour note was the serious injury of R.J, an air ambulance attended the scene before it was decided the route to hospital lay with a road ambulance, we await an update on RJs injury and wish him well.

It should also be noted that Winster FC called our club and also enquired as to RJs injury and wished him well, we offer our sincere thanks to Winster for showing their concern.

Laburnum Dent Old Boys Charge, Ressies Continue Run, Cs Finally Break Run

Sunday March 15th.

The firsts travelled to bogey ground Dimple Fields looking to break their hoodoo on the said ground and also take a leap in the title race.

Laburnum, with games in hand, themselves had everything to play for and it was the hosts who took an early stranglehold on the game.

A cross shot deceived everyone in the tenth minute and the hosts where in front, dismal defending shortly after saw Laburnum double their advantage before a wonderful strike from range saw the host race into a 3-0 lead, the game looked up after just 25 minutes.

Old Boys, bitterly disappointed, rallied and James Taylor was bundled off the ball and Jack Weaver stepped up and reduced the arrears from the spot.

Minutes later and the Old Boys were right back in it when James Taylor broke free and unselfishly laid it on a plate for Jack Weaver to stroke home into an empty goal.

Weaver then had a glorious chance to level but a bad bobble saw the shot scooped wide but Weaver made amends minutes later when he leashed an unstoppable strike from 18 yards to mark a great comeback by the dials as it finished 3-3 at half time.

Second half saw both teams go for the jugular, first Laburnum hit a post then at the other end Furness saw his strike smash against the post, Travis had two half chances that went begging before a moment of lapse saw Laburnum regain the advantage when hesitant defending saw their man crash home the loose ball to make it 4-3.

Old Boys threw everything and the kitchen sink at the hosts, numerous corners and long throws from Marples causing havoc in the home rearguard, it only looked a matter of time but somehow, the hosts held on for dear life.

With two minutes to go Furness rounded the keeper and slotted home but agonisingly for the old boys saw the assistant referee flagging for Taylor being offside, a bitter pill to swallow and one that now puts Laburnum in the driving seat.

Old Boys can take care of the others in the pack with their own results but now rely on Laburnum slipping up in their long run in. The Old Boys, Apollo, Inky Club and Laburnum are all in with a chance of both promotion or the title and Elmton Road Social Club have also sneaked back into the race after a good run of form, a really tight division is emerging but its the Matlock based outfit, Laburnum, who have the destiny in their own hands.

A cracking game and one which neither side deserved to lose.

The Fox Trotters Reserves maintained their recent good run of form by disposing of bottom club Grassmoor Sports Reserves in their encounter at Barnes Park.

Andy Weaver rolled back the years and rattled home a brace to make it a good day for the Weavers scoresheets and Adam Simms netted for the club for the first time as the Dials ran out 3-0 winners and moved up to fourth in the table.

Eggy & Hensons boys finally broke their recent run of poor results by beating second in the table Butchers Arms, goals from Jamie Lockwood & Steve Jones saw a 2-1 victory in a strange day of results in Division 8 as the top four at the start of play all lost.

Next week sees the first team travel to fourth placed Inky Club whilst the Ressies have a break and the Cs make the long trip into the wilderness to face Winster.

Firsts See Off Badger, Ressies Hit Five, Cs disappoint

Sunday March 8th.

The first team travelled to Badger Park to face promotion rivals and old foes Badger and arrived for the afternoon KO to find a swap of a pitch awaiting.

Almost at full strength, just the missing, injured Craig Marples who was replaced by Liam Smith who played on the wing with James Taylor moving up front to partner Furness in attack. Dewberry was again injured and Rhodes remained in goal.

Badger left their set in furious mood, attacking the Old Boys at will and putting the dials under intense pressure in the opening twenty minutes or so, Badger treating the game as though it was their last stilt at getting amongst the title contenders.

Old Boys defended well and when called upon, Rhodes was in good form once again in the sticks.

As time passed the Old Boys weathered the storm and started to raid the occasional attack on Badgers rearguard, who looked a tad shaky when pressured.

It was against the run of play when the deadlock was broken, Furness raced into the box and was brutally brought down and the ref pointed to the spot, Jack Weaver stepped up and put the Old Boys one to the good.

The remainder of the second half was evenly matched with Badger probably shading the latter exchanges. First half injury time saw an atrocious challenge on Weaver for which a yellow was brandished, Craig Taylor whipped in a cross that was met by James Taylor who thrashed home a wonder of a volley to make it 2-0.

A real smash and grab first half from the boys in tange.

The second half saw the Old Boys start brightly enough and take the early exchanges to Badger, the pitch was now a quagmire and extremely heavy going.

Badger got themselves back into the game when their forward and Blakemore collided in the box and their man made no mistake from 12 yards from the resultant spot kick.

Old Boys held firm and showed no signs of shaking and again took the game to their hosts, Badger also countered well and it was a real end to end affair. Then the defining moment in the game arrived, a long range effort from Badger looked certain to hit the net but Rhodes made a fantastic save, from this, he launched a clearance and Daley Furness broke clear of the home defence and slotted home calmly to make it 3-1 and put the game to bed.

A excellent and committed performance from the boys who must continue this form to maintain their promotion push. The result, combined with Apollos draw at Wingerworth BM saw the Old Boys move four points clear at the top of the table, although Apollo and Inky are hot on the heels and Laburnum, Old Boys opponents of next week can still take over top spot should they win all five of their games in hand, so another crucial game next week at Matlock.

Russ Foxs Reserves travelled to Holmebrook Tavern, although the game was switched to Calow as the pitch was playable at said location. An excellent performance from the Fox Trotters saw a comprehensive 5-1 victory, a result which moved the Ressies up to fifth in the table. Goals came from a brace from defender Shaun Goodwin another strike from the evergreen Paul Cooke, one from Paul Retallic and the goal of the game fromChris Capuano

Eggy and Hensons C Team made a short trip to the town of hills and faced Swan Reserves, a bitterly disappointing performance saw Swan complete the double over the dials with a 3-1 victory, Cs goal was however one to write home about, a thumping long range effort from Steve Jones.

Next week the firsts travel to Matlock to face Laburnum, the Ressies are away at Grassmoor Sports Reserves and the Cs are at Castle Leisure, hosting high flyers, Butchers Arms.

Firsts Bounce Back, Ressies Comprehensive & Cs Take Point

Sunday 1st March

Old Boys first team again had to move grounds due to work at the School and faced Angel RV on the top field at The Rodents Den, looking to put last weeks huge disappointment behind them.

Welcoming back Furness, Marples & Gough the outfield looked a much stronger line up than the previous week.

Rhodes replaced the injured Dewberry in goal and Old Boys made a shaky start with Angel having a glorious chance in the first minute. The Dials finally gained some composure and took the lead on around ten minutes when Craig Taylor continued his rich vein of scoring form from midfield, striking home on the turn from around 10 yards.

Old Boys continued to press and carved out several clear cut opportunities but failed to take advantage. Just before the break Old Boys rued their missed chances when RV levelled from the spot after Gough was harshly adjudged to have committed an offence in the box, so the Old Boys went in at the break level at 1-1 despite enjoying the lions share in the opening 45.

Old Boys left the traps in the second half in vibrant mood and wave after wave of attack unfolded, Jack Weaver finished coolly before an absolute peach of a goal and certainly goal of the game arrived when Craig Marples broke the offside trap and was clean through on goal, he elected not to take on the keeper but decided to lob him from 25 yards with a most surreal finish.

Daley Furness was welcomed back to the party with two goals and Marples added another as the Old Boys rounded up a comfortable second half performance by winning 6-1 and maintained a two point lead at the summit of division three.

The level of performance proved that if Old Boys are going to succeed this season, then they must be at full strength every week.

The Reserves hosted AFC Angel on the bottom field at The Den and two goals from Michael Blakely and a further brace from Paul Cooke saw a comprehensive 4-0 result gained.

The C Team finally ended a long running losing sequence when they managed a point at Holmebrook Tavern 2nds. Goals from Jamie Lockwood, Alan Eggleston Jnr & Jamie Andrews saw the dials share six goals with their hosts.

This Sunday, the firsts travel to Badger in an afternoon match, the Ressies travel to Holmebrook Tavern firsts and the C team make the short journey to Swan Reserves.

1sts Defeated, Ressies Off and Cs Lose At Boythorpe

Sunday 22nd February

Old Boys first teams fixture was moved to the bottom field at The Coalite as the School pitch was unfit due to builders work.

A very weakened outfield saw Furness, Stray, Marples, Gough all absent. A reasonable start was made however, with the Old Boys enjoying a lot of the ball but with little penetration and Brampton Anchor certainly created the more openings in the opening exchanges.

The visitors took the lead when a shot from a tight angle deceived Dewbs and found its way into the net.

Old Boys continued to pressure but where restricted to half chances and shots from range by a stubborn Anchor rearguard and some good keeping.

The second half was much like the first, Old Boys having plenty of the ball but struggling to make any impact, it was however, a bitter blow when Anchor doubled their lead leaving the Old Boys a mountain to climb.

Craig Taylor pulled one back with just 8 minutes to go, this lifted the Old Boys and made Anchor start to wobble and the Old Boys could and should have levelled late in the game but Anchor held on for their deserved and hard earned win.

Ressies became yet another victim of the Holmebrook Park hoodoo as their game was called off but Eggy & Hensons C Team travelled to old foes Boythorpe.

A controversial game which saw the Old Boys claiming Boythorpe had fielded ex Chesterfield man Chris Bettney, case pending!

Boythorpe collected the points, for now, by winning the game 2-1, C Teams goal coming late in the day from Jones

1sts And Ressies Crash At First Hurdle

Sunday Feb 1st

The first team travelled to Killamarsh Juniors Athletic of Division Two and fully expected to come away with a result but the absence of Goffy, Dewbs, Daley and Anto saw a makeshift side take the field.

On a wonderful Killamarsh Pitch it was the hosts who took the game to the Old Boys and stand in keeper Evans was forced into early action on several occasions and kept goal well, Old Boys also had two half chances but close attention of the home defence saw Weaver and Marples just of the mark.

The hosts finally took the lead closing in on the break when two failed attempts to clear saw their forward gift wrapped a chance that he tucked home from five yards.

A half time pep talk from Mac saw the Old Boys put in a much better second half display and hard graft from Marples saw the Old Boys draw level. Marples harried down a defender, robbed him of the ball and skip past him only to be brutally brought down.

Marples got himself up and slammed home the spot kick confidently to make it 1-1.

Old Boys and Killamarsh now attacked each other at will and an open game materialised which either side could have taken, Weaver turned inside out in the opponents box and just saw his shot go wide, Travis, on his return from injury just failed to get on the end of a Marples long throw and Marples himself had a goalbound effort deflected wide.

As the sidelines started to think about the possibility of extra time, Killamarsh grabbed the killer goal which sunk the Old Boys when their forward was allowed to much time on the goal line and he crossed and their man poached home from a couple of yards.

The Reserves also crashed out of the domestic cup, falling to Royal Oak Tupton in the preliminary round of the Hutson Cup, goals from Capuano & Cooke proved not enough as the visitors notched the odd goals in five to complete a miserable day for the Old Boys seniors.

The previous week, the last in January saw just the Ressies play with a home game ( at Moorfield) and they lost by the only goal of the game to a stubbord Brampton Red Lion.

Next week the firsts have a rest with no fixture whilst the Ressies travel to runaway league leaders Brampton Peacock and the Cs hope to return to action in a game at home to NWMW Ranch Rovers.

1sts Hit Whitt For Seven, Ressies Share Six, Cs Outgunned By Locals 1sts Also Land League Sponsors Performance Award

Sunday 18th Jan.

Old Boys firsts welcomed New Whitt for their first visit to The Theatre Of Dials and the first where hoping to bounce back from last weeks bitterly disappointing cup exit and consolidate their position at the head of Division Three.

Old Boys where slow starters however and struggled to find any rhythm but still carved out a couple of early half chances but New Whitt also threatened and had their lively two lightning attackers on parade, along with proven ex Swan man Eastie.

It was the visitors who took the lead when a shot through a ruck of players found its way into the bottom corner to please a large travelling contingent.

Old Boys response was nothing short of immediate, just 30 seconds in fact when a through ball was dually met with the visitors centre half and Daley Furness, the latter claiming the final touch to make it 1-1.

Just before the break another goal arrived for the hosts as James Taylor clinically finished to give the dials the lead at the interval in what was a very even and hard fought first half, a mention must be made however for the visiting keeper who pulled a string of fine saves off despite carrying an injury.

The second half turned out to be a strange affair, the visitors failing to maintain their first half performance and the Old Boys stepping up the tone.

Jack Weaver was in much better form than the first half and continually tormented the visitors full back. James Taylor finished off a good move to make it 3-1 to give the Old Boys breathing space and take a bit of pressure off.

Every decision now seemed to be contested as both linesman came under fire for several debatable decisions, Old Boys had already suffered a ludicrous decision in the first when a Weaver goal was chalked off and the visitors suffered similar at this stage in the game.

Daley Furness rattled home number four with a good finish from a good move before Craig Taylor did likewise to make it 5-1, prior to this another goal should have been given when a mistake by the injured keeper resulted in the ball clearly crossing the line by a good foot but the liner refused to flag the goal, more controversy!

Weaver then broke clear of the defence and faced just the keeper but very unselfishly passed across the face of goal to lay on a plate the chance for Daley Furness to complete his hatrick to make it 6-1.

Weaver then came off in the 88th minute giving a rare appearance for Tye of the Parkin Variety. With almost his first touch Tyrone Parkin picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box and curled home his first ever goal and the Old Boys seventh to round off a comprehensive victory and put the Old Boys five points clear at the top of the table.

The Reserves dials hosted Holmebrook Tavern at The Rodents Den and started well, an early lead was taken when Joe Seredynski continued his rich scoring form with a neat finish following a good move. Old Boys could and should have increased this lead when the Bum Headed one was put clear through but fired his shot straight at the keeper.

The Ressies then had a goal disallowed following a push by the Loon, Goodwin before The Taverned ones levelled against the run of play. Tavern then dominated for a period forcing Sugar Robinson into making a marvellous save from a free kick.

Just before the break, Bone Tone delivered into the box and Allan Elliott got on the end of it to give the Tangerines a 2-1 half time lead.

Early in the second half the reserves found themselves under the cosh and the visitors levelled when failure to clear the lines proved costly and it was 2-2.

A similar goal saw the visitors go 2-3 into the lead before a brace of penalties turned in favour of the Old Boys.

Firstly, the visitors had the chance to wrap the game up when Goodwin was adjudged to have committed in the box, Sugar played mind games with their taker, claiming to the ref the ball was not spotted correctly, this delay seemed to do the trick as their man blazed the spot kick over the bar.

Next it was the turn of the dials to be awarded a chance to claim a point when Cap was fouled, substitute, Johnny Rushby stepped up and made no mistake to make it 3-3.

Eggy and Hensons C Team disappointed again, this time losing out 2-1 to lowly local rivals White Swan Reserves, we await an update from Camp C for further match details.

More positive news arrived from league headquarters as the Old Boys first team have been awarded the Kick Energy Team Of The Month for September. Old Boys had collected maximum points in this month to head the early league table.

Old Boys members are welcome to attend the ceremony which is next Monday, the 26th at the Barracuda Bar in Chesterfield Town Centre where we shall collect some Kick Energy goodies, some Umbro Training gear and several footballs.

Any member wishing to go must contact Jamie on his mobile by this Wednesday as we have to notify the league of the numbers attending, we welcome anyone on this venture from any section of the club, require to be at the Barracuda at 7.00pm.

Bolsover School Update

This evening, Monday 13th January, 2009 saw the club invited to The Bolsover School, Mooracre Lane to view the plans for the Schools redevelopment and how it may affect our clubs use of the premises.

First noted was the retention of the present sports hall which shall mean no disruption to our Juniors indoor training at the school, a first positive.

Alarmingly, next noted was the removal of our first teams present pitch on the plans, replaced by a Rugby field with two medium sized pitches being relocated where the present Rugby field sits. This of course would mean no facility at all in the future for our first team, alarm bells ring but a quick chat with the Deputy Head, Mr Buxton brings fresh hope.

Mr Buxton commented that the schools own sports department had noted this and had the same fears as the schools under 16s and 15s would be faced with a similar problem.

A revised plan was brought to the fore showing the two medium pitches replaced by one full size pitch, still however, located on the present Rugby field site, further comments where noted that the pitches may even remain as they are at present, which needless to say is our preferred option as the surface on our present pitch is much more football friendly than the Rugby field.

The club expects to be updated on this shortly once the planning permission has been finalised, which is expected in the next four weeks.

The club was also advised that despite being advised that the first team may have to move off site altogether during the works, this may not be the case, again, we expect an update shortly.

A full size artificial all weather surface pitch is also in the plan, complete with floodlights, an excellent piece of news for midweek training and friendly floodlit games!

Now on to the School redevelopment itself, one can only comment that the plans and artists impressions presented are nothing short of exceptional, it certainly appears that the local community is in for one huge boost upon completion, it really was that good!

The companies and personnel that delivered the presentation answered all queries in an extremely professional manner and with clarity and confidence at the fore.

Updates will appear on here in the future.

FIRSTS GUTTED, RESSIES DO DOUBLE, C's SLIP AGAIN

The first team travelled to Loscoe looking to make it through to the Semi Finals of the DCFA Senior Cup.

Preparation for this big game started to look bleak even in midweek, it became apparant that the centre of midfield was going to be a problem as Taylor was absent and Travis had still not recovered from his injury, Old Boys then received the news that Marples too could not make the trip.

So the Old Boys started with the injured full back, Briggs in centre midfield, accompanying the injured Reserves midfielder Cap, despite this, Old Boys started brightly and took the early exchanges to Amber and gained reward as little as five minutes in when Weaver was tripped in the box and Weaver himself dusted himself down and rammed home the spot kick to give the dials the dream start.

Almost immediately however, Amber took control, forcing the old boys on the rearguard with continued pressure, the leveller arrived in short time when a shot through a ruck of players left Dewbs unsighted and it was 1-1.

Further disaster was to follow, Furness had to come off with a strain on around 10 minutes and just moments later, the already inured Capuano followed suit leaving Manager Brad no option but to play himself up front.

An already weakened team was now running on fumes! A clearance by Dewbs struck the onrushing forward who mopped up the spillage and tapped into an open goal to give Amber the lead, Old Boys fell under more pressure but held on to 2-1 by half time and where furious when their centre half didnt see red following a terrible lunge on Anto Stray.

A half time pep talk and movement of Scat into central midfield, following Briggs moving to full back as he was injured sort of rejuvenated the Old Boys who surprisingly went onto dominate the first twenty minutes of teh second half, James Taylor had two glorious chances which were spurned, Jack Weaver rounded the keeper but didnt get enough on the ball to cross the line, Old Boys could have been 4-2 to the good but the chances had gone.

The most furious action then followed, the Old Boys slotted home a perfectly good finish following a good move, the home linesman flagged for offside despite the fact that two defender where in front and even as the ref went to consult the linesman we all thought he would over rule such was the obvious, the disallowed goal was greeted with anger and just when we thought things couldnt go any worse, Weaver was brought down again in the box, the ref blew, ran towards the incident and gave a free kick outside the box, more disbelief amongst the travelling ranks.

Football being football, Amber then cleared their lines and scored straight away at the other end to make it 3-1, a beauty of a goal it must be said to effectively end the game.

Old Boys more or less had run out of steam and will at this point and Amber added a further two goals to give them a flattering 5-1 scoreline and the dream was over for the Old Boys. Positives must be taken, having beaten Doe Lea Villa and Hepthorne Lane on the way, the Old Boys grabbed a headline or two, it was however, a little disappointing to go out to a team who really werent as good as Villa or Hepthorne.

Russ Fox's Reserves where also short on numbers due to Army duty and injury but they completed a league double over Chesterfield Arms never the less.

Arms took an early lead but this was cancelled out when a goalmouth scramble saw Shaun Goodwin slide home and Paul Cooke continued his scoring form just before the break to make it 2-1.

Arms pressure was seen off in the second half with the defence and Sugar playing well, the victory was wrapped up when Daz Cutt (of the bum headed variety pack type hickory) ended up in the box and finished well to bring to light the only good point of the weekend.

Eggy and Hensons C Team slumped to another defeat, again at the hands of Dronfield Barracuda who ran out 2-0 winners at Holmebrook Valley. Eggy will be hoping the rot stops next week.

FIRSTS GIVE RUTHLESS DISPLAY, RES AND Cs TUMBLE

Old Boys went into their home fixture with old foes Elmton Road looking to put the disappointment of the Wingerworth game behind them and take their promotion push into 2009 and dent Elmtons at the same time.

Old Boys, missing the injured Travis, Stewart and Briggs where forced into changes but in came latest signing and returning to the club, Craig Marples.

Old Boys started well, quick passing and movement tormenting the visitors who had ex-Old Boys in their rearguard, Wayne Mazza Marsden.

On around 20 minutes the Old Boys took the lead with a peach of a strike, Craig Taylor found an inviting ball on around 20 yards which sat up nicely and he hammered home a beauty of a volley leaving the visiting keeper no chance.

Just minutes later, Jack Weaver continued his goal a game ratio since signing as another belter of a goal arrived, Weaver weaved down the wing before unleashing a thunderous strike which strained the netting pegs and the Old Boys where on fire at 2-0.

Debutant Craig Marples was next to score and yet another wonder goal followed, Marples picked the ball up deep in midfield, breezed past a couple of chances before thundering a 25 yarder into the far corner to put the Old Boys 3-0 up and leaving Elmton looking on shell shocked.

Half time arrived and Brad and Mac had little to say other than very well done boys, the first half performance had been faultless.

As is often the case, the second half saw the Old Boys take a little off the gas being 3-0 up and Elmton found their stride a little more.

It was the Old Boys however who found the net first in the second period when James Taylor struck and his deflected shot ended up in the back of the onion satchel to make it four zip.

Old Boys then, for the first time in the game failed to clear their lines and where duly punished when Daz Gee found space to pull a goal back. The back four and keeper, marshalled by skipper Goffy, gave a commanding display throughout and this little lapse could hardly detract from an excellent showing from the rearguard.

Weaver made way to rest his knee and a rare venture into midfield for assistant manager Mac unfolded, a comment from the sidelines from Magician Wignall predicting Mac would score came true minutes from the end when a shot was parried by the visiting keeper and Johnny Mac was on hand to hook the loose ball home to make it an emphatic 5-1 victory over a fellow promotion rival.

The win in itself was a great one and a first win double of the season for the first team and further news filtered through that Apollo had dropped two points, Badger & Inky shared the points in their game and Laburnum too had dropped two points, an excellent day for the first team who replace Apollo at the top of the table by two points.

The Reserves where hoping to pick up where they left off prior to the Xmas break but a very strong Poolsbrook side containing the Parsons & Bally where too strong as Poolsbrook ran out winners by sever goals to four, finding the net for the Ressies was Blakeley, Cooke, Seredynski & Bone Tone. (A brief summary would be appreciated here at BOB internet headquarters).

The C Team also had a bad day at the office as they faltered 2-1 at home to Dronfield Barracuda (again a summary from someone would be welcome).

Next Sunday sees the first team travel to Loscoe, Derby, to face Amber Valley Associates in the Quarter Final of the Derbyshire Senior Cup, KO is 2.00pm with a 12.00 midday meet at the coalite for a 12.15 departure.

The Ressies travel to Chesterfield Arms whilst the C Team make the trio of away days in a reverse of this weeks game and travel to Dronfield Barracuda.

The final fixtures before Christmas (Sunday 21st) saw the Old Boys firsts travel to Wingerworth Barley Mow and come home with a disappointing single point, goals from Craig Taylor, Jack Weaver, James Taylor & Daley Furness where cancelled out by lowly Wingerworth, who, it must be said staged a terrific comeback on two occasions to their credit.

The Reserves signed off 2008 in good form beating Royal Oak Tupton courtesy of braces from Jason Cann, Joe Seredynski and single strikes from Blakeley and Ben Haye

OLD BOYS TAKE POINTS IN SIX POINTER TO TOP TABLE

Sunday 7th December.

Old Boys hosted Badger in a six pointer at Moorfield and where looking to continue the recent good run of cup and league form.

The squad was bolstered by new new additions, Jack Weaver returning to the squad following his transfer from Grassmoor and 'Shep' arriving from the defunct Hollingwood.

A fairly even start saw Badger just shading the early exhanges with Brett Gibbons holding the ball up well in the Old Boys last third, a breakthrough almost arrived for the visitors but Dewberry made an outstanding save to keep the Old Boys in it.

Both sides where really restricted to half chances after this until the half hour mark, then came a period of Old Boys pressure which brought reward.

Jack Weaver fed a through ball to Anto Stray who rammed home the opener to give the dials the lead.

Just a few minutes later and this time it was Jack Weaver who scored to make it 2-0, he went on a mazy run before despatching a crisp shot, beating the keeper at the near post to make it 2-0.

Weaver was once again involved when he broke clear and with just the keeper to beat he unselfishly slotted across the face of goal to leave James Taylor the simplest of chances to make it 3-0 just before the break.

The second half saw the Old Boys take the foot of the gas a little and Badger slowly began to dominate, although prior to this Old Boys had chances to have increased their lead.

A tame header from the badger forward somehow deceived Dewberry to reduce the arrears with ten minutes to go, then in the last minute Badger bagged again to make it 3-2 and then won a corner in injury time to put panic in the Old Boys rearguard but the corner was cleared and the Old Boys where relieved to hear the full time whistle and collect the 3 points and in turn take the top spot in the division three table.

The Reserves game was off due to a frozen pitch and althought the C Team started their game this was abrubtly halted early in the second half when fighting broke out and the referee abandoned the game.

Next week sees all 3 senior sides in Alma & Hutson Cup ties.

OLD BOYS ON ROAD IN JAN IN DCFA QUARTER FINALS

Old Boys First Team have been drawn away in the DCFA Senior Cup Quarter Final and will face Amber Valley Associates, who ply their trade in the Derby City Premier League.

Our opponents to be, narrowly beat Badger FC in the last round, however, the round before they beat Britannia by a scoreline of 6-2.

A remarkable cup run in our first season in the Senior Cup has already seen the Old Boys giant kill Chesterfield & District League Champions Doe Lea Villa, first division Hepthorne Lane and also knock out FC Brukside of Derby.

Old Boys will be hoping for yet another upset when they travel on January 11th, keep it up boys!!!

1st Team Cause Upset Again And Reach QF Of Senior Cup Res And Cs Falter

Sunday 30th November

Brad & Macs boys once again caused an upset in the Derbyshire Senior Cup and progressed to the Quarter Finals after beating Division One outfit, Hepthorne Lane.

On a cold morning Old Boys arrived at North Wingfield with a full team to choose from and entered the fray on a very strange pitch which sloped in all sorts of directions.

Old Boys kicked down the main slope in the first half. Hepthorne Lane dictated the early play but the Old Boys rearguard held firm and despite their pressure, Keeper Dewberry only had a couple of shots to save in the opening 25 minutes, although one of them was an excellent save turning round the post for a corner.

Old Boys broke well however when the opportunity arose and also had several long range efforts making their keeper work.

Old Boys then started to dominate the latter part of the first half with Furness and Strays pace upsetting the Hepthorne back four. The deadlock was broken on around 32 minutes. Anto Stray was fouled around 30 yards from goal and a whipped in cross saw a goalmouth scramble unfold and Craig Taylor was quickest to react to give the dials de tange the lead.

The lead was held comfortably until half time and both teams dispersed to the dressing room for tea.

Old Boys had heard on the grapevine what to expect from Hepthorne when they had the slope to their advantage and the advise was correct, they hit the flanks at every opportunity and for 15 minutes laid siege on the Old Boys rearguard, winning a flurry of corners and stretching our full backs and wingers.

Hepthorne levelled within 15 minutes of the re-start, a long ball out to the flanks evaded our full back and winger and a short pass released their man who fired home with a good finish to make it 1-1. The writing looked on the wall.

Brave Old Boys however had different ideas, Hepthorne continued to dominate for the next few minutes and some desperate defending took place. Hepthorne, now going for the jugular threw players forward.

Ironically, it was a Hepthorne style long ball to the flanks by the Old Boys that brought reward, a long pass out onto the left wing found James Taylor who produced one hell of a corker, riding the challenge of two defenders reaching the angle of the penalty area, he unleashed a powerful curler past two more defenders leaving the home keeper no chance to put the Old Boys back in front, much to the delight of the travelling support.

Hepthorne looked on in disbelief, they had been caught cold against the run of play but the goal was one of sheer quality.

Shortly after this Hepthorne where reduced to ten men when their midfielder saw a second yellow for about his sixth offence of the game.

Hepthorne soon swapped, and went three at the back and again poured forward despite having a man less. Old Boys now though broke clear and attacked at will, the game was end to end and was fast, furious and physical.

With 15 minutes left the Old Boys attacked again down the left wing, a few short passes saw the ball end up loose in the oppositions box. James Taylor attacked the loose ball and he, the keeper and a defender all collided at once, the ball broke free, Taylor was up first and slotted into the empty net to finish the game.

If Taylors first goal was all about finesse and quality, his second was all about determination, work and bravery.

The remaining minutes passed by relatively quickly as Hepthornes attacked where being comfortably mopped up by an Old Boys team running on adrenalin.

The final whistle arrived and Old Boys celebrated the scalp of another first division side and a place in the Quarter Final draw.

The 1st team face a six pointer next week when they entertain Badger at Moorfield.

The Reserves put in their worst performance of the season as they travelled to Staveley to face Lowgates, in a match to forget they had just the one goal to show, through Ben Haye but Lowgates hit five to run out worthy and comfortable winners.

Next week the Ressies face AFC Grouse away.

The C Team also saw defeat, a first for them this season, a 1-2 home reverse to Mason Arms (Ex Saltergate Club), a goal from Shaun Jones was not enough to prevent the defeat. According to manager Eggy, it was a good game of football which could have gone either way.

The Cs will try to get back to winning ways next week at home to Dronfield Miners.

1sts Return To Top After Derby Win, Reserves Hit Grouse For Five

Sunday 23rd November.

Brad and Macs boys entertained local rivals North Star at Moorfield in a first ever competitive fixture between the sides and it was The Old Boys that claimed the bragging rights...just.

Star, blatantly short on numbers where forced to bring in injured Jody at centre half.

Old Boys started bright enough and spent long periods in Star territory but found both Joby and Pope at centre half in commanding mood, dealing with with the onslaught of pressure, when this pair was breached, the Star keeper was also in good form thwarting everything that came his way.

This was the tale of the first half, Old Boys dominating the territorial battle but Star holding firm and defending like Trojans.

Just before the break Star made an attack and won a corner which saw Jody rise unchallenged and should have scored, Old Boys were relieved to see the header go a foot over the bar.

Half time arrived with the Old Boys frustrated at failing to take the lead but confident their dominance would eventually see reward.

The second half materialised in much the same vein, Old Boys placing even more pressure on the Stars back line, a penalty appeal saw the ref pull up play but judge the offence was just outside the box, a flurry of corners again saw Pope and Jody working overtime.

The breakthrough finally arrived some 25 minutes into the second half when yet another corner was drafted in and Daley Furness finally left his marker and nodded home what proved to be the winner and only goal of the game.

Further pressure continued but for some poor finishing and good goalkeeping and defending the game finished at 1-0. Credit to The Star lads who battled to the end and never gave up on the cause despite having several key players absent.

This result, combined with Elmton Roads shock home draw against bottom side Wingerworth Barley Mow saw the Old Boys return to the top of the table. Next week the Old Boys travel to Division One outfit Hepthorne Lane in the DCFA Senior Cup 3rd round.

Russ Foxs Reserves entertained AFC Grouse at The Rodents Den and a hatrick from Joe Serendynski and further strikes from Paul Cooke and Benjamin Haye without reply saw the Reserve dials conclude an excellent weekend for the club.

Next week the Fox Trotters travel to Lowgates Sports.

The C Team fell victim to yet another Holmebrook Valley Park washout as their game was called off on Friday, Eggy and Hensons boys host Masons Arms at Castle Leisure next Sunday.

COMEBACK FOR FIRSTS, Cs DRAW, RESERVES CRASH LITERALLY

Sunday 16th November

The Reserves suffered a torrid time as they set off on their journey to Nags Head, reaching Rylah Hill and Bulb crashing head on into a bus resulting in some injury and a hospital visit. Brush Starbuck just avoided hitting the Bulbed one but Liam Smith could not halt his car in time and ran into Brushs.

All in all, several injured parties, two cars written off and the team depleted and no chance of making the fixture, best wishes to all those involved and hopefully those suffering injuries will be well very soon.

The 1st team played host to league leaders Apollo and a fantastic game developed, one which Apollo dominated in the first period.

Old Boys enjoyed the first ten minutes or so and the Apollo keeper made two good saves but from then on until the half time whistle it was Apollo making the running.

They piled on the pressure in a mix of good football and set pieces, their long throw specialist often causing trouble for the Dials rearguard and their opener arrived as a result of one. A huge throw into the box saw the Apollo man react first and nod home.

Old Boys struggled to strike up any pattern and attacks for the Old Boys were few and far between, Apollo went two up when a corner was not dealt with and confusion at the back post saw their man nod home unchallenged and the game looked up for the Tangerines.

Just on the stroke of half time whoever, the Old Boys where given a lifeline when Dale Briggs hit a ferocious shot from out wide which left the visiting keeper with no chance to reduce the arrears at half time to 1-2.

The second half started and the Old Boys now looked a different team, buoyed by the goal, the dials put Apollo under pressure but the visitors also threatened, a wide open and entertaining game was now on.

Midway through the second half and James Taylor went on a mazy run, going past several players before playing a delightful ball to Daley Furness who found his partner in crime Anto Stray who placed his shot acutely to bring the scores level at 2-2.

As well as entertaining, the game also started to take on a physical look and several players saw yellow before manager Bradley saw Red for making his feelings known to the referee and ended up watching the game from behind the tennis courts.

Attack after attack from both sides was relentless and the game could have gone either way, Apollo hitting a post and Furness being put through one on one bringing out an excellent save from the Apollo number one.

Six minutes of injury time was added due to injury treatment and booking time and just as it looked like a draw was to be the result, up stepped Anto Stray again to notch home the winner with his 16th of the season to complete a great comeback for the Old Boys who now sit level on points with Apollo and have a game in hand.

Eggy and Hensons C Team remain unbeaten after a close encounter between the top two sides in Division 8. A tight game which saw chances few and far between for both sides. The only two items of note in the first 45 minutes was Blie Bell hit a cross bar followed by Matt Jessop also striking the metal work for the Old Boys.

Things remained tight in the second half until the visitors centre half played a back pass to the keeper, Alan Eggleston Jnr bore down putting the keeper under pressure and his clearance struck Eggy and rebounded into the net to give the C Dials the lead.

Blake Eggleston underlined another man of the match performance with a cracking goal line clearance as the C's tried to hang on under a period of pressure from the local visitors.

The visitors pressure finally brought its reward 12 minutes from time when they levelled, a corner was swung into the Old Boys box and their forward pounced from 10 yards to level matters.

Jamie Bamo Lockwood had a good chance to steal it towards the end but hit a tame shot straight at the keeper as the game finished 1-1. A fair result on the balance of play and one which keeps the C team top of the pile and still undefeated.

Next week sees the 1st team host local rivals North Star, whilst the Ressies host AFC Grouse and the Cs travel away to Dronfield Miners.

OLD BOYS PROGRESS TO LAST 16 - C's TOP TABLE

Sunday 9th November

Old Boys 1st team, due to travel to Derby to face FC Brukside found themselves hosting the game at Moorfield as our opponents pitch was unfit for a second week running.

Knowing very little about the opposition, the dials entered the wet and windy conditions in good spirits.

Brukside had few opportunities in a tight first half which Old Boys dominated but found the visiting keeper in sparkling form, he was eventually beaten on the half hour mark when Anto Stray hit one of his usual blistering shots which bulged the netting.

Half time arrived with the Old Boys one to the good but the interval was delayed somewhat as the visitors coach was dismissed for derogatory comments to the referee. The coach then refused to leave the pitch side vicinity which led to further delay until only a threaten of abandonment saw him retreat to the tennis courts.

Early in the second half our opponents continued to rack up yellow card after yellow card for a constant swarm of bad language, in the meantime, David May pressured their far post from a corner and nodded home to make it 2-0.

The visitors by now had all but given up the cause, countering well on occasions but seemingly more intent on disputing the referees authority.

A low drill into the box saw Graham Travis prod home to make it 3-0 and effectively end the game.

Craig Taylor then produced a wonderful solo goal, bearing down on a defender in possession, Taylor harried the centre half, eventually robbing him at about the third attempt before wandering into the box and placing a beauty of a shot into the far corner to make it 4-0.

A fifth was added when Travis was uphended in the box and Anto Stray stepped forward and rammed home his second to make it 5-0.

With a minute on the clock, a visiting player saw his second yellow, followed by red and as he left the field of play he decided to lower his shorts and undergarments to the Referee which will no doubt lead him in further hot water at County FA headquarters.

Old Boys move into the last 16 of the senior cup and face another big test in the form of an away trip to Division One outfit, Hepthorne Lane when we will be hoping to cause another upset and grace the quarter final stage.

A gutsy performance from Eggy & John Hensons C Team on a wet and windy morning saw the Cs keep up their unbeaten start to the league season.

This, only the Cs second game in six weeks saw a messy first half as we kicked down the slope with just the one goal to show for the advantage. The goal came from our best football of the half, neat interchange from Alan Eggleston and Bamo Lockwood set Dale Richardson up who calmly slotted home from 8 yards.

A setback midway through the second half as Butchers levelled from a 20 yard free kick with a good strike.

The C dials response was immediate however as two minutes later we retook the lead as Jamie Bamo Lockwood struck a 20 yard shot which the keeper fumbled into his goal.

Butchers then pushed Old Boys all the way with sustained periods of pressure, two brilliant pieces of defending from Man of the match, Blake Eggleston, one a goal line clearance and the other a tremendous challenge on Butchers forward when in the clear, blocking his shot.

In the final two minutes however, we raced away, broke clear and Adam Dobbs hit a low and hard left foot strike into the bottom corner to seal all three points.

The win, combined with local rivals Blue Bells defeat, saw the Cs move to top of the table on goal difference and with a game in hand. The top two clash this Sunday at Castle Leisure to add to the spice.

Reserves Battle Bravely In Bizarre Day

Sunday 2nd November

A bizarre rain drenched day first saw the first teams game at Brukside in the senior cup called off, then the C team game at locals Swan Reserves fell foul of the weather and ultimately a 8.30am pitch inspection saw the Reserves home game with the junior cups big guns Rainbow International being called off due to waterlogged pitch.

Rainbow however, offered the services of Kilburn Miners Welfare so off we trotted in a convoy of vehicles down the M1 and A38 arriving to a pitch not much better that the one we had left behind.

Tea bar on the ground and Rainbow clad in their rich chairmans clobber, it was David v Goliath at the ready, the hosts so welcoming in calling us retards and inbreds from the beginning to the end.

Rainbow, clearly a side that should be in the Senior Cup started brightly and played, as expected, the better football but the Reserves refused to lie down to take what everyone thought was the inevitable, Paul Cooke having an early header disallowed for offiside, the hosts started to get frustrated as heavy possession did not create a deal of shots on target.

A Rainbow player then produced a vile challenge on Paul Cooke which left his upper thigh cut and his protective padding shredded and he saw immediate red.

Mid way through the first half Old Boys got a free kick about 40 yards out and Johnny Rushby placed an inch perfect strike clipping the underside of the bar to give the Ressies a shock lead.

Rainbow piled on further pressure but could not find a way through as Old Boys held out until half time.

Further verbal exchanges around half time saw a Rainbow bloke insult the old boys by saying if the match was on points they would be a hundred up and that old boys are just a pub team, of course, the old boys revelled in this, admitting were a pub team, in division seven of our league and reminding the Zippy, Geoffrey & Bungled ones that it was a Junior Cup tie and if they were that good what was they doing in it.

Rainbow came out all guns blazing in the second half determined to put the Old Boys down, more inbred comments were followed by a slice of terrible luck that saw Rainbow level, their winger fired in a low cross shot which zipped off the wet ground, deceived Sugar and it was 1-1.

Everyone now expected a collapse as Rainbow poured forward again, Sugar immediately making up for his error by making two quality saves from close range.

Old Boys occasionally countered and when they did, the home defence looked edgy.

A Reserves corner came in and Rainbow failed to clear and Paul Cooke was on hand to restore the Old Boys lead at 2-1.

Rainbows bench was in a state off shock and Russ Fox was enjoying putting them in a spin for a while, the pub team had the lead and the superstars didnt like it.

It didnt take long however for Rainbow to level, a dangerous cross saw the Ressies and Rainbow all in a tangle and a second lucky goal for Rainbow materialised when a Old Boys defender got the last touch to level with a desperately unlucky own goal.

With time running out Old Boys still managed to counter well against Rainbows constant pressure but the inevitable did finally happen.

If Rainbows first two goals had been lucky their third was a quality goal, a pin point cross and finish to put the hosts 3-2 up and they celebrated wildly at taking the lead against this pub team!

Old Boys very nearly stole a leveller in the last minute when Cooke drilled low and hard but their keeper made a good save as a highly entertaining game ended 3-2, the Reserves couldnt possibly have given any more than they did and should feel proud of their work rate and battling performance, giving a much higher rated team a run for their money.

The fun wasnt over though as Rainbow announced their chairman had hired a golf club for us to enjoy a drink and bite to eat in, so off we travelled several miles to be greeted with chaos, the Golf Club was either double booked or packed to the rafters, took an age to get served, then one pint later it was back to Rainbows pub near Heanor!

Again, the placed was packed to the rafters for the Derby v Forest game and we eventually got served and stood in a covered outside area with the football on, more inbred comments followed as our accents differed from the locals, one going as far as to say were from Yorkshire and have whippets at home.

In traditional Boza style, the lads took this with a pinch of salt and gave as good back until a chair came sailing through the air aimed at us, missing us and hitting an unfortunate lady on the side of her head, and they call us inbred!!!

The time was up and it was time to go whilst we were still in one piece, further comments where dealt our way as we departed home to our whippets, racing pigeons, incest and Yorkshire Puddings.

Well done and very, very unlucky Old Boys Reserves!

MISERABLE DAY FOR OLD BOYS

Sunday 26th October

Old Boys 1st hosted Laburnum at The Theatre of Dials hoping to extend their impressive start to the season but the first 45 minutes would put pay to such hopes.

From the off, Old Boys made little impression on a good, physical and well organised Matlock outfit who took the lead early on when a cross into the box was deflected of the head of Blakemore to give the visitors an early lead.

Old Boys had chances to level after this and indeed could have more than levelled, first, debutant Blackburn failed to beat a one on one with the visitors keeper, then Anto Stray fired narrowly wide, Briggs was through but lost control of the ball and Blackburn missed a free header.

Disaster was to then unfold at the other end as another cross found its way to the near post and was not dealt with and their man lapped up a free header to make it 0-2.

Just minutes later and a long and useless looking ball down the park bounced no fewer than two times and a failure to clear saw another gifted goal to make it 0-3, then the visitors made it 0-4 when Old Boys were caught two on four at the back.

All in all, Old Boys worst 45 minutes for many a season, having said that, nothing should be taken from the visitors who where ruthless in punishing the dials.

A half time heated exchange between several parties of the Old Boys camp eventually saw a bold move, with nothing to lose, Old Boys opted for a 3-4-3 second half formation with Furness moving back up front, joining Stray and latterly Knowles.

Immediately Old Boys pulled one back when awarded a spot kick for a foul on Furness, Stray made no mistake firing his 12th of the campaign.

Just minutes later and Old Boys pulled it back to 2-4 when Furness turned and shot and with the help of a deflection put the Old Boys back in the game.

Thoughts started to turn to an unlikely comeback being possible as Old Boys raided Laburnums territory and poured forward, perhaps it was inevitable that the dials would get caught on the break and when Laburnum made it 2-5 the contest was over.

A wicked, terrible first half performance but credit to the lads for not giving up and making a game of it in the second half. The result, combined with others, leaves the top six wide open in this strange division, with the table starting to take shape, a large gap is evolving between the top half of the table and the bottom half.

The Reserves travelled to Highfield Park to face old friends of the first team, AFC Angel but came home empty handed too.

A good start this time around though as the Ressies started brightly. A good through ball from the Paul Cooke saw Joe Serednyski the Polish Assassin, released and he made no mistake in slotting home to give the Dials De Tange the lead.

Problems soon materialised though as Angel drew level, The Ressies failed to clear their lines and the homesters drew level.

Old Boys ressies had a few chances to take the lead and Angels keeper made a few good saves and Sigona just failed to get on the end of a cross.

Angel then took the lead when Weaver, under pressure from an Angel man played a back pass to Robinson who took on a forward but couldnt further his run and was robbed and they made it 2-1.

In the second half, Serendynski was brought down and Johnny Rushby levelled from the spot and Old Boys were rejuvenated, numerous corners and territorial advantage came The Dials way but the advantage wasnt capitalised on.

The inevitable happened as so often does in football when chances are spurned and Angel added two late goals to give them a 4-2 victory.

A disappointing day for both sides who will be looking to bounce back in County Cup action this weekend.

Eggys C Team also return to action this weekend with a derby match at Swan Reserves.

Mixed Fortunes For Seniors

Sunday 19th October

David Bradleys first team travelled to Stand Road for a first ever meeting with New Whitt and a strange game of two halves and nine goals materialised.

Old Boys made the best possible start when, with under a minute on the clock, keeper Dewberry took a free kick and found the head of Daley Furness who nodded past the keeper to make it 1-0.

Old Boys continued to press and were well on top and a second arrived when James Taylor cut inside and beat the keeper with a curling shot to double the advantage.

Two became three when Daley Furness was brutally challenged in the box and up stepped Anto Stray to ram the Tange Dials into a three goal lead from the spot.

New Whitt then pulled a goal back when their skillful and fast as lightning forward outpaced the old boys rearguard and he placed home in style to reduce his sides arrears.

Almost instantly though, Old Boys reclaimed their three goal advantage when Anto Stray ferociously found the net from a tight angle to make it 4-1.

The home keeper was then took off injured with suspected broken ribs and a stand in keeper took his place.

With a 4-1 lead at half time and the hosts keeper off the field, half time saw the Old Boys contemplating how many they would add in the second period. New Whitt, to their credit had totally different ideas.

Early in the second half New Whitt reduced the arrears to 3-4 with two quick goals, both coming, disappointingly from very poor and sloppy play between the old boys midfield and back four. New Whitt now had a new lease of life riding on the crest of a wave.

They put old boys under much pressure but Old Boys also had chances on the break to kill the game off but both rearguards held out until the last minute.

New Whitt collected a throw in, deep into injury time and their player took a huge throw that reached the Old Boys back post and their man rose, totally unchallenged to nod home the leveller at 4-4. Old Boys listened dejectedly to the referees confirmation that just 20 seconds remained and they had seemingly thrown away two points.

From the restart, Old Boys attacked down the left wing, two passes later and James Taylor picked up the ball, turned and lashed home a cracking shot into the bottom left hand corner to make it 5-4 and leave the hosts looking on in disbelief.

Three points gained in the long run but we must spare a thought for the hosts, who on their second half performance deserved something from the game, an amazing finish that could not have been scripted.

Team:-

M Dewberry, J Stewart, A Scattergood, D Briggs, M Gough, C Taylor, G Travis, P Retallic, J Taylor, D Furness, A Stray.

Subs Used: R Knowles, J McDonald.

Russ Foxs Reserves hosted Div 7 champions elect Brampton Peacock and took the field with a bare eleven following several withdrawals from the squad due to injuries.

They put in a brave performance but eventually went down 2-1 with the Old Boys goal coming from a well taken Liam Smith free kick which gave the dials an early lead.

As with the first team, the reserves gifted the visitors both of their goals and could not make further impressions on the league leaders, who look a comfortable bet to take this title already.

Team:-

S Robinson, S Goodwin, A Elliott, A Sigona, L Smith, D Cutt, C Capuano, B Haye, J Seredynski, L Starbuck, C Gerrard

No Subs.

Alan Egglestons C's travelled to NWMW Ranch Rovers looking to maintain their 100% start to the season.

Further details are awaited from the C Camp but a 3-3 draw unfolded with Jamie Lockwood netting a late leveller.

1sts Slip To 1st Defeat, Ressies Remain Unbeaten

Sunday 12th October

Old Boys 1st team came back down to earth with a home defeat to a determined Inky Club side at Moorfield on Sunday.

Everything looked good at the off, Old Boys creating three good chances in the opening period but it was Inky that took the lead on around 20 minutes when Dewberry made a good save only for the rebound to fall kindly to the forwards feet to finish.

Old Boys responded and mounted a series of attacks that eventually saw James Taylor level following a unselfish pass being laid on to him by Anto Stray to leave Taylor the simplest of finishes from close range.

Disaster struck for the Old Boys on the stroke of half time when a short back pass was punished by the visitors to go 2-1 up.

The second half saw no further scoring, although the Old Boys had the share of possession, a very determined Inky Club defence held firm and they thoroughly deserved their win, credit to them.

The Reserves hosted Chesterfield Arms at The Rodents Den and Woods gave the visitors the lead with a corker of a goal from distance.

The Ressies though battled on and a leveller arrived as Joe Serendynski played in Paul Cooke who clashed with the keeper and levelled.

Half time came and went and Arms piled an amount of pressure on the old boys rearguard early in the second half but to no avail as the Old Boys took the lead when Siggy knocked a pass into the path of Joe Seredynski who finished well to make it 2-1.

The Ressies rounded off a successful day at the office when Paul Cooke grabbed his second of the game with a glorious solo effort which was finally despatched from the edge of the box to make it 3-1.

Reports came back to BOB offices that veteran Ginny Boler had another good game.