FEB/MARCH 2010

Under 14's Division C - 20.02.10

Lower Beeding Lions 5 - Maidenbower 2

Once again Beeding U14s were forced to play this home fixture away due to pitch availability. However, this did not deter them starting with confidence and purpose as they quickly put their stamp on a game against an up and coming Maidenbower side that had only been beaten once in the last ten outings.

Beeding did everything that coach Bailey had asked prior to the game, not allowing Maidenbower to settle on the ball, quickly closing them down, keeping the ball on the ground and playing some good possession football. This strong attacking, passing game enabled Beeding to go one up in the first ten minutes via Chris Keeble.

Maidenbower quickly responded to level the score. Beeding were seen to be working set pieces very well and their second came from a well placed corner ball and well taken Adam Wicking header.

During the second half Beeding had several more chances, a goal mouth scramble led to a cool tap in from Brandon and Beeding's third, the fourth goal again coming from Chris. Beeding were clearly on top, which stemmed from their hard work and this gutsy and quality attitude made a good Maidenbower side look very ordinary on the day.

Some excellent defensive work and build up play led to balls being carefully manoeuvered from the back through to midfield and on to the forwards. Maidenbower also working hard, continued the fight and picked up a second goal in the last fifteen minutes but Beeding's quality overpowered them and their fifth came again courtesy of Chris Keeble who chipped the keeper in another well taken goal & his hat trick.

This was quite easily Beeding's best performance of the season - it was a superb all round effort from across the whole team from the keeper, throughout defence, midfield and attack; everybody knew their job on the day and carried it out to the full.

Very worthy man of the match was captain Adam Wicking who led from the front!

Report by Jill Reeves

Under 14's Division C - 13.02.10

Lower Beeding Lions 4 - Henfield 5

Lower Beeding were forced to play this home fixture away due to pitch unavailability,  got off to a nervous start.In contrast, Henfield started quickly, being first to every ball, playing good attacking football, putting Beeding under pressure and thus Beeding conceded an early goal.

However the game changed for the better with Beeding creating chances and converting three of them in the first half, Chris taking on the keeper & picking up the first, Euan with a speculative high lob shot from just outside the box scoring the second and Lucas making good from a goal mouth scramble following a corner to go in 3-1 up at half time.

It has to be said this was somewhat against the run of play and Henfield came storming out after the break. Once again Beeding worked hard, creating several chances but failed to convert these opportunities.

Henfield exploited some weaknesses in the Beeding midfield / defence and before long were just a goal behind. Beeding picked up a fourth goal courtesy of Lucas and with 12 minutes to play were leading 4-3.

In order to retain the lead coach Bailey moved Cameron and then Max back in front of the defence, however during the last 10 minutes Henfield looked like they wanted it more and made several penetrating runs, picking up a fourth goal & then a final winner in the last two minutes leaving Beeding no time to recover.

The above said, there were some stand out performances for Beeding with Josh Bailey showing confidence & bravery between the sticks and Benji Reeves for his consistent assertive defensive duties - joint men of the match this week.

Report by Jill Reeves

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Under 13's - Division A - 06.03.10

Lower Beeding Lions were beaten in the cup semi-final by the inform Southdown side 4 - 2.

Southdown opened the scoring in the first few minutes, only to add a second mid-way through the half.

Lions came back with a goal from skipper Andrews Roberts, only to find themselves two goals behind again when Southdown scored on the stroke of half time.

In the second half Callum Nash netted Lions second, and for the next ten minutes an equaliser looked a possibility as Lions pushed forward.

Southdown dealt the final blow scoring with five minutes remaining and Lions cup final dreams were dashed.

Lewis Healey was Lions man of the match.

Report by Clive Pyzer

Under 13's - Division A - 27.02.10

Double Header at K2 due to waterlogged pitches

Lower Beeding Lions took four points from their double header against Horley Town.

The first match ended in a 1 - 1 draw, Horley scored with ten minutes to go following a defensive error, but immediately replied with a goal from Callum Nash.

Keeper, Declan Norgate, was man of the first match.

The second match Lions won 3 - 0, Liam Ruz heading the Lions in front after just a few minutes, this was followed by a superb lob from Adam Ruz and a strike by Callum Nash.

Sam Morey's flawless performance at the back earned him man of thismatch.

Report by Clive Pyzer

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Under 12's Division B - 06.03.10

'HEATH TOO HOT FOR CRAWLEY TO HANDLE!'

Lower Beeding Lions 5 - Crawley United 0

Team: Comber, Hayter (Eglinton), Davies (Kennell) , Thurgar, Bayne, Baeza-Wigzell , Dollner, Rogers, Bucher, Spry, Heath

Goals : Heath (16,20,53,59), Thurgar (37)

The Lions faced Crawley United for this Quarter-final game in the Plate competition. Although Crawley are struggling in the league, they are in the “A” league!

The away side started brightly, as the Lions initially looked hesitant. But the pressure on the Lions was relieved by robust defending from Hayter, midfield energy from Bayne and some clever passing and subtle flicks from Spry.

The home side started to grow in confidence and, as they did so, gave Crawley less and less time on the ball. For the rest of the match, every time a Crawley player was in possession, the Lions hunted him down. On a big pitch, this tremendous display of determination and energy started with Heath, up front, and went all the way through the team to Dollner at the back. The larger pitch, too, was allowing the Lions' passing game to flourish.

Bucher had a couple of chances to open the scoring, the second coming courtesy of a snatched Spry cross, using the outside of his foot. Heath then had a goal disallowed for off-side, following another Spry cross.

Bayne and Baeza-Wigzell were now bossing midfield and the play was all in the Crawley half. As Bucher and Heath combined to create havoc in the penalty area, Heath stabbed home the first goal.

Dollner should have scored with a free kick which had plenty of power, but was not on-target.

A rare Crawley attack was cleared by Hayter over the top. Heath was fastest onto the loose ball, took a touch and lobbed the keeper for goal number two.

Unlike the Lions, Crawley were not closing the ball down with anything like the necessary urgency. Thurgar, finding the ball deep on the left, had all the time he needed to control and then pick his shot, tremendously, into the near top corner of the net.

Then it was Heath and Rogers combining to put Bucher through to force a save. Heath followed this with a thrilling run, forcing yet another save. A Rogers corner saw Heath cleverly trying a glancing header. One sensed another goal was on the way. It came, inevitably, from Heath as he seized upon a loose ball to calmly slot it beyond the hapless Crawley goalie.

The whole of the Lions team continued to show their commitment and enthusiasm. Late in the game three Crawley players carved an opening, but before they could make anything of it, no less than seven Lions were back: some hustling, some tackling, some covering. On a large pitch, and late in the game, this was impressive stuff.

The move that led to the final goal saw excellent ball control by Rogers as he moved into the area to shoot. The keeper parried, but that boy Heath was there to put away the rebound.

Despite scoring four goals and the team being 5-0 up, there was no relaxing by Heath. From the restart, as for all the previous restarts, he speedily put pressure on the Crawley player in possession. Harry earnt a well deserved Man of the Match for his performance.

Report by Ken Eglinton

Under 12's Division B - 20.02.10

Due to all the postponed matches this game became a double-header, with each half counted as a separate match.

First match: Lower Beeding Lions 2 - Upper Beeding 0

Team: Hayter, Eglinton , Kennell, Thurgar, Westray, Baeza-Wigzell , Dollner, Rogers, Bucher, Spry, Heath

Goals : Heath (16), Dollner (25)

Due to traffic problems following an accident on the road, the Lions started with 10 players. Notwithstanding this disadvantage the Lions applied early pressure on Upper Beeding.

Dollner, Thurgar, Baeza-Wigzell, Rogers and Spry were quick to close the ball down, and so firm in the tackle that the hosts barely got out of their own half for the first ten minutes, when Westray arrived to reinforce the position. Soon after his arrival Eglinton and Thurgar combined to win the ball on the left. The latter quickly released the ball to Heath, who showed wonderful balance to turn and score.

Bucher should have doubled the score. He was alert to run onto a back header by an Upper Beeding centre-back, but his shot was weak.

Alongside Bucher up front was new signing Heath. He battled with game determination against much bigger opponents who had the benefit of a lenient referee.

The back four, bolstered by Westray, did well in restricting anything at all from troubling the stand-in goalie, Hayter. Baeza-Wigzell, Rogers and Spry were in control of the midfield. From time to time they even tried to get their passing going, but the long grass made this impossible.

Dollner's power in the free kicks seems to be a developing weapon for the Lions. He put one over the top, and hit the wall with a second, but better was to come. Eglinton, enjoying the freedom of a rare outing on the left-wing, tried a dribble, was fouled, and Dollner scored a fantastic goal from the free kick.

Second match: Lower Beeding Lions 1 - Upper Beeding 3

Goals : Heath (20)

Upper Beeding: (7), (16), (28)

Upper Beeding were clearly stung by the result and by their poor performance in the first match. They came out full of the determination and commitment that had been lacking. The Lions' midfield were so unprepared for this, that they ceded control. Even worse, the Lions' defenders lost focus and discipline, giving away a soft early goal. They also showed their old frailty of being unwilling to head the ball, bringing pressure onto themselves.

The Lions are good enough to turn this around and they were unfortunate not to score from one of several shots in a goalmouth scramble, and were later denied by some bold and nimble goalkeeping in another goalmouth scramble. An excellent Rogers corner led to more scuffed chances, but none found their way into the net.

In contrast, when an Upper Beeding forced a goal mouth scramble they managed to put the ball away to make the score 2-0.

The coaches decided to add to the power in midfield, where the game was being lost. They moved Thurgar up, and pulled Eglinton back to the left-back position. This paid an almost immediate dividend as Thurgar won the ball on the left and lifted it into the penalty area, for Heath to divert into the goal.

More chances to score came and went – yet another goal mouth scramble, and then a very decent penalty shout. Then Thurgar was fouled as he tried to burst into the box. The referee played an advantage and the move petered out. With Dollner's ability at free kicks, the Lions would have preferred not to have the advantage.

Apart from Dollner and Thurgar, the Lions were still playing as if they were a different team to the one seen earlier. They failed to mark properly from a throw-in and were lucky to see Upper Beeding put the free shot over the top.

As the match was coming to a close, an Upper Beeding corner was well delivered, meeting a determined head to complete a defeat that looked highly unlikely half an hour earlier.

Report by Ken Eglinton

Under 12's Division B - 13.02.10

Lower Beeding Lions 3 - Roffey Robbins Athletic 1

A clear, crisp and bitingly cold morning greeted boys, parents and coaches alike to the Cowfold ‘Super Little' Drome where conditions were good for football. Many in the crowd sought immediate refuge in hot coffee, bacon bagels and eventually, bacon sandwiches once the appropriate WAG notification was received.

The home team, buoyant from a fine performance the previous week were clearly the favourites despite missing some key personnel. George, Nick and Arthur all unavailable meant that Lions would be under strength but no problem there boys.... 

Lions chose a strategic 4-4-2 formation starting line up from a squad of 12. The coaches fielded; Luke, Nathan, Josh, Els, JT, Danny BW, Sam, Dylan, Harry, James Williams and Dan B. James Westray ready from the bench as supersub.

Many in the crowd were expecting a very one sided affair and based on form and the league table, that was an understandable view. What transpired was far from most expectations and is valuable lesson for the Lions and great credit to their visitors, Roffey Robbins Athletic.

A scrappy first half ensued, neither team creating any opportunity worthy of discussion. Whilst The Lions enjoyed the majority of possession, they were unable to create anything as a result – first touch, passing, creativity and energy all sadly lacking. Unforgivable simple errors such as foul throws constantly gave away possession as The Lions made their task harder and harder. Roffey, sniffing blood, raised their game and a number of attacks meant the Lions defence had to be alert. These were few and far between but Luke and his defence were alert and ensured the door remained closed. Josh made some vital clearances and Danny BW bursting from midfield had a one of the few shots on goal……

That was it…. The first half over and if anyone had contemplated dozing off, the threat of frozen lips stuck to Cowfold turf was enough to maintain interest. Space is also of a premium so standing only is permitted.

The second half started equally dully, little ground conceded by either team. The pitch limited the Lions width and the loss of Nicks creative and imaginative play making in the middle of the park meant that the home side were often lacking flair and innovation. However, on 45 minutes, clever interplay released Sam who was able to slot the ball away 1-0.

The celebrations were short lived and an attack from the visitors resulted in a penalty that was coolly put away giving the Luke no chance. 1-1. This could have been a turning point in the game and despite the home sides possession, no-one would have had argued if the underdogs had gone on to win. Changes in formation by the coaches made an immediate impact. Dan B found a loose ball and was able to convert the half volley from the edge of the box. 2-1. The Home side seemed then to find their form and shortly after, Harry was able to capitalise on a defensive error for 3-1.

There was little to choose between the two teams on the day and credit to the Robins for putting up such a battle. The Lions however will need to improve greatly and perform to the required standard if they are to stand any chance of promotion.

Lions Scorers - Sam Rogers, Dan Bucher, Harry Heath

Man of the Match - Samuel Rogers

Report by Dave Bucher        

Under 12's Division B - 06.02.10

Lower Beeding Lions 2 - Broadbridge Heath 0

There was significant concern in the Lions camp that the game with the current league leaders would not go ahead given the vast number of fixtures previously postponed.

The boys were ready for action and expectations were high, so with the news that local councilors had been far too busy validating expense claims to concern themselves with football, the mood was buoyant.

Lions chose a strategic 4-4-2 formation starting line up from a squad of 13. The coaches fielded; George 'The Fish' Comber, Nathan, Luke, Josh, Els, Nick, Danny BW, Sam, Dylan, James 'Will The Thrill' Williams and Dan B. A difficult starting 11 to choose, from an exceptional team meant that subs included JT, and Harry H. Arthur bravely made himself available despite a back injury but had to stand down from selection at the last minute - all at the club wish him a speedy recovery.

Kick off was prompt at 9.30 and as the official got proceedings underway, many in the crowd wondered how he hadn't been spotted earlier. Lions started brightly with some innovative passing and movement and The Heath seemed initially overwhelmed by the fluidity and skill of the visitors. The early pressure on the home side resulted in the ball falling to James who coolly took the ball on the half volley from 30 yards. Few in the crowd doubted where the ball would rest and even the ref was taking giant strides back toward the centre circle before the ball nestled in the back of the net 1-0

It was only a few minutes before further Lions pressure saw Dan B run on goal and despite some heroic Heath defending, Dan was able to poke home for 2-0! The once noisy Heath camp was silenced, disbelief perhaps that a spanking was on the cards. If the Lions expected an easy ride they were to be disappointed as the home team rallied as again the coaches found their voices. Sustained pressure was absorbed by the Lions defence, Luke, Josh and Nathan resolute in their duties, Els as always, the reassuring rock, clearing danger from the lair that belonged to 'The Fish'. Then cruelly, a penalty to the home team following desperate defending, meant the visitors cushion of safety was in danger at a critical stage of the game.  Striker and keeper alone, the crowd silenced, and then the adulation of a world class save meant the Lions remained the dominant force. Further pressure ensued from the home side but the lions were able to go into the break without conceding.

It was a game of two halves. Both teams displayed some exceptional football skills and the Lions central midfield of Danny BW and Nick provided a solid backbone to a team that began to again grow in confidence. Sam 'Dodge' Rogers and Dylan provided the width that tested and stretched the home sides defence although at times, the service generally to the 2 strikers was lacking, the final pass not always of the necessary quality. Trickery from Dan B wowed some in the crowed although many were more impressed as to how he managed not to trip himself up.

A series of corners and sustained pressured from the home team saw George and his defence called into action and this period saw The Fish at his best, a fantastic performance. Dan B and Nathan made way for Harry and JT who both put in sterling performances. Of note was a JT 40 yard cross field pass from that silky left foot to Sam, who narrowly failed to make a connection. Harry was superb in a role that he is not used to and caused problems for the home defence.

A thrilling game, played in great spirit by both teams.

Goals - James Williams and Dan Bucher

Man of the Match - George Comber

Report by Dave Bucher        

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Under 10's - 06.03.10

Match 1 - L. B. Lions U10's 2 - L. B. Lions U11's 5

Team - Sam Jewell, Marcus Ordever, Charlie Robinson, Jadon Marone, Adam Sowton Robert Deane, Tom Gibbs, Hamish Waller, Liam Healy, Mattie Coates, Ben Ordever, Subs (all played) Josh Wicking, Mattie Davis, Sam Pickles

Goal Scorers - Adam Sowton, Robert Deane

Man of the Match - Charlie Robinson

A momentous occasion as LB Lions under 10's played their first 11 a side match on a full sized pitch at Cowfold against their older club colleagues.

Pride was at stake and the under 11's were in no mood to give their younger upstarts any favours.

The under 10's lined up for kick off in an unfamiliar formation of 1, 5, 4 and seemed, from the touchline at least, a very long distance from each other.

As the match started many of the under 10's seemed in awe of the size of the pitch and their opponents.

A style of play honed for 7 a side football was quickly found wanting in the larger format of the game.

Adam who has so successfully spent the whole season goal hanging had to cope with the offside rule, a task beyond even most premiership footballers (esp. Robbie Keane).

Hamish's role as deep sweeper was at times getting in the way of Sam in goal. All players gradually began to adapt as the game wore on but not before the under 11's quickly took a 2-0 lead.

Charlie and Marcus, though in midfield, were well up for the challenge and gradually as the half wore on, Lions U10's began to gain some possession and create chances of their own. These were limited to long range shots which weren't yet troubling the keeper and Sam was being called into action to make some great saves to keep the score 2-0 at half time.

The under 10's started the second half brightly and through a combination of passing movements between Rob and Adam and long through ball from Charlie, Marcus and Jadon they created some real chances of their own.

It was the under 11's though who scored next with a long range high effort which Sam saved initially but couldn't stop rolling over the line. This seemed to inspire rather than dishearten the U10's and they had their best spell of the game camping inside the under 11's half. This brought reward as Rob broke through from midfield, reaching the edge of the penalty area and faced by three defenders he threaded a ball through to Adam who scored with a shot high into the net. This gave the under 10's even more confidence and they looked capable of scoring again soon. Rob broke through into the penalty area but panicking as set himself up he pulled his shot wide of the post, Charlie and Hamish both had long range efforts that went close.

The under 11's were rattled but responded well themselves with two quick goals to effectively kill the game off .

The under 10's kept playing their football though and long ball through from Mattie C was met by Rob's run. Holding off two defenders he kept his cool this time and slotted the ball home to make the final score 5-2.

The under 11's deserved their win but there was stages in the match when they got a fright. The under 10's matched their opponents for skill but couldn't match them for size and experience of playing full sized football.

Both sides pride should remain intact and they will both, for different reasons take something positive from the game. All fourteen players used made a positive contribution to the match but Charlie was deserved winner of the under 10's Man of the Match, playing up two years and you'd never have known it.

Report by Peter Deane

Under 10's - 27.02.10

Match 1 - L. Beeding Lions 10 - Storrington & Sullington 0

Team - Sam Jewell, Marcus Ordever, Charlie Robinson, Jadon Marone, Adam Sowton Robert Deane, Ben Caidan, Hamish Waller (rolling subs)

Goal scorers - Robert Deane 5, Adam Sowton 4, Charlie Robinson

Man of the Match - Robert Deane

With the home pitch under water from the deluge of rain we've suffered this week, the fixture was moved to K2 in an attempt to ease rapidly building fixture congestion.

For the first time in 3 months Coach Robinson had a full squad to pick and he elected to play with rolling subs giving everybody the same time on the pitch. The only player not substituted was Sam Jewell in goal but he had less to do than the subs (at least they were collecting the ball when it went off).

The match started scrappily being played in the S&S half but both teams were struggling with the speed of the surface. It was left to Charlie to break the deadlock with a well taken dipping volley from the edge of the area. Shortly afterwards Rob hit a long range shot which the keeper could only deflect into the path of Adam who scored to make it 2-0. Rob picked up the ball in midfield passing to Adam on the right wing, beating two players he found Rob on the edge of the area and his shot went high into the net, 3-0.

By now Lions were well on top with Jadon, Charlie and Marcus running midfield, Hamish sweeping everything that slipped through and Ben, Rob and Adam creating countless chances. Rob crashed a long range shot against the bar and Marcus hit the post twice in quick succession. A wayward throw in from S&S was collected by Rob, an early pass found Adam and he scored to make it 4-0. A great long range high shot from Ben was stopped by the keeper but Rob collected the rebound to make it 5-0.

Just before half time another long range effort (this time from Jadon) was stopped by the keeper but pounced on by Adam to give him a first half hat trick and Lions a 6-0 lead.

Storrington were making things more awkward for Lions in the second half but it wasn't long before they extended their lead again. A pinpoint cross filed pass from Ben found Rob on the right wing, going past the defence his cross / shot escaped everybody and found the back of the net. Lions forced further saves from the keeper and were dominating possession. A throw in was collected by Rob whose turn and left footed shot made the lead 9-0. Rob scored another from the right wing 9-0. The scoring was rounded off with a great move. Ben and Charlie interchanged passes to carve open the defence, Ben's cross was headed by Marcus and stayed in the air through a series of headers before Adam headed in, to make the final score 10-0.

Match 2 - L. Beeding Lions 5 - Storrington & Sullington 0

Team - Charlie Robinson, Josh Wicking. Mattie Davis, Mattie Coates, Tom Gibbs, Sam Jewell, Ben Ordever

Goal Scorers - Ben Ordever 4, Sam Jewell

Man of the Match - Ben Ordever

Another full squad for the second match and they responded with their own emphatic performance which was every bit as convincing as the first.

Again it took a while for Lions to get to grips with the surface but when they did the goals began to flow. The first came courtesy of a goalies clearance controlled in midfield by Sam Jewell. Looking up he found Ben free on the wing with a well placed pass. Ben collected, turned and headed for goal keeping his composure to give Lions a 1-0 lead. Ben doubled the lead with a similar goal, this time collecting a long throw in from Mattie (Delap) C.

As in the first game, Lions were controlling midfield through Tom, Mattie D and Mattie C with Josh and Sam coping well with any attacks that got through. From the touchline Ben's Dad promised him £1 if he got a hat trick, so he did, this time benefiting from some midfield battling by Mattie C. Clean through on goal he finished with his trademark sliding shot (only advisable with track suit bottoms on astro turf).

Ben had more chances in the second half and increased his goal count to 4 with another free run on goal.

By now Lions were passing the ball well and finished the game in style with a good move rounded off by a curling shot from Sam, 5-0.

Report by Peter Deane

Under 10's - 13.02.10

First Match - Lower Beeding Lions 0 - Copthorne 0

Match 1

MOM -

Team - Sam Jewell, Marcus Ordever, Charlie Robinson, Jadon Marone, Adam Sowton Robert Deane, Ben Ordever, Mattie Coates (sub)

Five months into the season on a bitterly cold morning and with two of the first team squad unavailable, LB dropped their first points of the season against the best team they have played so far.

No bore draw this, it was an exciting match, the stiffest challenge LB have faced. Both sides had chances to win the game but a draw was the fairest result.

Copthorne started well and in early exchanges forced two good saves from Sam J. Jadon had to be at his best, and so he proved to be, frequently intercepting Copthorne's attacks with a with a reading of the game and a timing of his tackles beyond his early years.

Charlie too was performing heroics in a defensive midfield role and Marcus was turning defence into counter attack. Through one such move Adam broke free and fired a shot against the cross bar, the ball rebounded out to an advancing Ben O whose sliding shot just found the wrong side of the post.

LB were now gaining more of the ball but Copthorne were still dangerous on the break. Adam set off on a jinking run, breaking into the penalty area, reaching the touchline and crossing to find Rob whose looping shot once again hit the cross bar.

The second half saw more of the same. As the game stretched out chances were being created at both ends. Adam stopped the ball from going out with an acrobatic overhead kick that reached Charlie in the penalty are who just couldn't apply the final touch to score. LB were exposed by a breakaway attack which found an unmarked forward in the penalty area, just when it looked as though he must score Sam J raced across his goal to scoop the ball out of air stopping it hit the back of the net.

These two good sides ended up cancelling each other out, the return match is eagerly anticipated. Finally the game was also notable for the fact that the Ordever brothers passed to each other!

Match 2 - Lower Beeding Lions 2 - Copthorne 1

Team - Charlie Robinson, Josh Wicking. Mattie Davis, Mattie Coates, Tom Gibbs, Sam Jewell, Adam Sowton, Subs; Robert Deane, Jadon Marone

MOM - Josh Wicking

Goal Scorers - Tom Gibbs, Jadon Marone

Another competitive, and closely fought game, ended in a narrow and just about deserved victory for LB.

If there is a Rory Delap of under 10's football then surely Mattie Coates has a strong claim. At times the penalty area seems to near for him, I fully expect him, fairly soon, to throw the ball, uncontested, from one side to the other. His Dad will have to start bringing towels to matches so he really does look the part. It was from one of his throw ins that LB took the lead, panic in the area ensued, a shot from Adam saved but was followed up clinically by Tom, 1-0.

Soon after Adam robbed a defender wanting too long on the ball, heading for goal his shot was ell saved. A long clearance from Charlie in goal was pounced on by Rob, tuning his market but under pressure from another defender his shot went narrowly over. Another run from Rob ended with a pass to Mattie C on the edge of the area and again the shot was just over.

Early in the second half, a well worked passing move between Mattie D, Jadon and Tom ended with a curling shot from Jadon to double the lead. Copthorne kept pressing and were rewarded with a goal through LB failing to clear the ball in their penalty area. The match remained tight but due, in no small part, to a great defensive performance by Josh, LB protected their lead to the final whistle.

Report by Peter Deane

Under 10's - 06.02.10

First Match - Lower Beeding Lions 5 - Royal United 3

Man of the match Adam Sowton

Goalscorers - Adam Sowton 3, Ben Ordever 1, Jadon Morrone 1

Team: Hamish Waller (Captain), Jadon Morrone, Mattie Coates, Ben Ordever, Marcus Ordever, Charlie Robinson

Finally, after almost two months of snow, ice and rain the heavens cleared and the sun came out to allow the Lions their first game of 2010.

With Deano still out with injury and Ben Caidan forced to sit out ahead of his Brighton commitment against the mighty QPR on Sunday, the team was led by novice captain Hamish Waller.

Sam Jewell had woken with a fever and had to pull out but we were lucky enough to have Ben Ordever on hand to take-on the keeper's jersey.

The match started with the Lions showing uncharacteristically early form with our first chance on goal coming within the first minute, Adam's shot whistling past the right post after a lovely move started by Marcus with support from Jadon.

We had barely caught our breath when Adam scored our first after connecting with a fabulous long ball in from deep in our own half from the already irrepressible Marcus. The fast pace of the game meant we were still grinning like Cheshire cats when Royal equalised despite Ben Ordever's valiant efforts. However, it was clear the Lions were on top form and the chances kept coming. Moments later Mattie struck a beautifully weighted corner that Adam volleyed in with his left foot to put us ahead 2-1.

Again Royal came back at us and Hamish's attempted clearance bounced cruelly off the oncoming Royal captain and Ben Ordever was beaten by a great shot 2-2. This seemed to galvanise the Lions still further and Jadon fought bravely in Royal's penalty area to make it 3-2 to the Lions.

Hamish brought the first half to an end by narrowly missing the top right corner with a long range shot.

The second half started as the first half had ended with the Lions in possession. However, pride, as they say, comes before a fall and we conceded the softest of goals despite having 6 Lions in the area 3-3. We came back with Hamish finding Adam whose flick-on found Marcus who scored to make it 4-3.

Charlie had been battling hard all game but suffered an injury as he stopped Royal in midfield yet again. Liam came on to relieve Charlie while he received emergency treatment. A huge throw from Mattie into the six yard box found Adam who scored with a right footed half volley for his well-deserved hat trick and make it 5-3. With Charlie now back on and controlling the midfield once again the Lions enjoyed another spell of domination including a sweet pass from Adam which set Hamish free on the halfway line for a solo run at goal. Sadly one touch too many and the Royal keeper put an end to that dream.

Although we secured a great result the Royal's dangerous duo (numbers 4 and 17) were a constant threat. Overall an excellent performance from every member of the team. We're back and roaring!

Report by Nigel Waller

Second Match - Lower Beeding Lions 0 - Royal United 0

The management sent out a positive formation: Charlie in goal marshalling a defence of Tom and Josh, with Matty D and Liam in midfield, and Sam P and Ben upfront.

The boys managed to counteract the Royals throughout the first half, with a couple of great through balls from Liam.

In defence Josh was reliable in clearing their long balls and Charlie tipped a thunderstrike onto the bar.

Tom began to make forward runs to good effect, ably backed up by Matty.

There was tireless and intricate play in the box between Ben, Liam and Sam.

The second half continued in the same vein, punctuated by a coupleof super stops from Charlie.

Marcus and Adam joined the fray, but it still ended a very respectable 0-0.
End.

Man of the match was awarded to Tom Gibbs

Report by Simon Pickles

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Under 9's - 27.02.10

Match 1 - Lower Beeding Lions 3 - Hurstpierpoint 1

Goals - Adam, Marcus,Finn

No snow, hail, torrential rain, but a gusty wind kept the players on their toes. One thing you need to do at K2 is not be distracted by the environment.

The Lions first goal saw Adam launching a long range effort into the empty Hurst goal. The reason why it was empty was Hurst disobeying first rule of K2....... play your own ball. The Hurst keeper was merrily passing a stray ball back to its owners whilst the game went on without him. Very fortunate for the Lions.

Hurst equalised and were generally a much improved side from last season, pressing us hard and not allowing our strikers time on the ball.

But then second rule of K2 came into play. There are landfill sites in Russia that have less litter than K2. Do not stop to pick it up. 2-1 Marcus ever the opportunist had cleverly lobbed the ball into an empty goal.

Hurst continued to press but were suckered into a counter attacking situation. Finn who had been frustrated all morning, finally got in a 1v1 situation on the half way line and after a typical run, finished with confidence.

Dan was excellent in goal, Josh was everywhere and Adam won a lot of ball (I can't help making rugby references when mentioining Adam).

A scruffy victory and we struggled to play with any fluency against enthusiastic opponents who will play worse and win on other days.


Match 2 - Lower Beeding Lions 1 - Hurstpierpoint 3

Scorer - Will

Hurst had more luck in this game and deservedly won 3-1. Our performance was notable for a good performance from James who added psssing to his stoical defensive qualities. Will had a run out upfront and nearly scored and then did score with a corner that had the slightest of right angled deflections.

Let's hope we get to play on grass soon as we are getting really tired of the narrow pitch and the ball zipping off the astro.football but not as we know it!

Report by Luke Aldrich

Under 9's - 13.02.10

Match 1 - Lower Beeding Lions 2 - Ockley Acorns 2

Team – Dan, Will (Elliot), Adam, Josh, Harry, Finn, Marcus

Goals - Finn, Own Goal

Last September, we invited Ockley for a kickabout in our backyard and they spanked us nine to nothing. Not very friendly for the first game of the season. So off we troop to their home turf in truly Baltic conditions filled with some trepidation.

The result showed that we have come an awfully long way this season. A sensational performance from our boys in a game of genuine quality saw us steal a point against really tough opposition.

The home side took the lead as some sleepy (or possibly frozen) defending gave the advancing Ockley attack too much time to line up the shot and fire it home. The home side piled on the pressure and were two up before long, as again our defending showed signs of creaking under the strain. Concern mounted that we were about to take another pasting from the talented Ockley squad but we were given hope before half time as Harry battled away in midfield (I've written that before I'm sure) to release Finn who stormed through and made no mistake with his finish.

The goal just before half time gave us real momentum and we were the better side in the second half. Adam was sensational in midfield – full of running and playing quality football and Josh and Elliot produced a much more solid second half display. Marcus and Finn created some good chances and we finally drew level through an unfortunate Ockley own goal. We tried (and failed) not to celebrate too loudly.

It all got a bit desperate towards the end but some fine saves from Dan and manful defending from the whole team saw us home for a fine draw.

Man of the Match - Whole team

Match 2  – Lower Beeding Lions1- Ockley Acorns 2

Team – Josh, Elliot, James, Adam, Dan, Harry, Finn, Marcus

Goal - Finn

Another very tight encounter which could have gone either way. We were robbed with pretty much the last kick of the game as the home side nicked the win but had held out magnificently prior to that.

By the time we kicked off your reported was almost frozen solid so notes are scarce but I do remember Adam giving in a display of almost demonic energy and Elliot and James putting in a really solid performance in defence.

Overall, this was a really satisfying morning. For me, the performance of the season.

Man of the Match - Adam Williams

Report by Ed Francis

Under 9's - 06.02.10

Lower Beeding Lions 0 - Cranleigh Comets 7

A good cranleigh side exploited some extreme doziness in the lions and the score could have been higher.

We started competing well at 2-0 down only to fall foul of a cruelly deflected goal which knocked our confidence again.

At least 3 of the goals were by our own hand but that was a reflection of the play. We were second to the ball and slow in decision making against a hard pressing physical side. We had a couple of efforts and tried hard but we'll put this down to the novelty of playing on grass!

A strange performance this not helped by having only 5 players at the due start time.

Report by Luke Aldrich

Under 9's - 23.01.10

Match 1 - Lower Beeding Lions 7 - Henfield 2

Goal scorers - Finn x 4, Marcus, Adam, Josh

Team -  Will, Dan, Adam, Josh, Harry (Elliot), Finn, Marcus

People who get paid to kick a football about are constantly whinging about having to play too much football and begging for a longer lay-off over Christmas. On the evidence of this game I'd suggest we reject such pleadings as our boys returned to the fray looking a little the worse for wear after their extended snow enforced break.

So we had an edgy start with neither team imposing itself and struggling to string passes together.

Will had been selected to take the gloves and was forced to make a couple of good saves early on as Henfield tested him from distance.

The deadlock was broken after 10 minutes with a truly historic goal. For 3 years now Finn has been attempting to score from corners and today he finally proved his doubters wrong with one that wriggled through. It looked like LBL would run away with it after that, as we piled the pressure on.

Marcus denied only by the upright , but we actually went behind after failure to clear, cost us one goal and a classic piece of counter-attacking from Henfield another. So at half-time, we weren't looking too clever.

The K2 pitch has a slight slope and we were downhill in the second half. Not sure if it that was a contributing factor or if some tactical magic had been weaved but we were transformed in the second half scoring 6 goals without reply.

Marcus got us back on level terms and Josh gave us the lead. Three goals from Finn and one from Adam completed the rout and by the end it all looked pretty straightforward.

So just half a game of football to shake of the Christmas hangover and if we can repeat our second half performance every week we'll never lose!

Men of the Match: Finn Aldrich and Adam Williams

Match 2 - Lower Beeding Lions1 (Dan) - Henfield 1

Team - Marcus (Josh), James, Perry, Elliot, Lewis (Dan), Will (Finn), Adam (Harry)

A rather less fluid encounter this one and the chill had set in by now so memories are few. The first half was goalless as the two midfield units scrapped it out. Will had a couple of good chances and was unlucky not to find the net.

A few changes at half time added some urgency to our play and we took the lead after Harry had battled well in midfield and released Dan up the left who bore down on goal and slapped the ball into the top left corner.

A few more chances went begging with Elliot at the centre of things but shortly before the end Henfield found an equaliser and a draw was probably a fair result.

Men of the Match: Perry Malik and James O'Brien

Report by Ed Francis