Festive feeding!!!

Hello everyone, 

Seasons greetings to you all and hope that you have had a good few days relaxing and enjoying the festivities!! 

Just wanted to say a massive thank you for the kind hamper that Paula brought around just before Christmas it was a real shock, and I am so touched thanks. 

 As you can imagie I am working hard to get through it all before I break into my new years training :-) 

 Enjoy the break and see you on the 4th January. 

 Thanks again 

Mark

Festive Greetings to all!

All of us at Central City U11s wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We hope that you have a fun Xmas wherever you are and whoever you are with and that Santa brings you all the presents you hoped for...

Challenges and Changes!!!

Hi everyone, 

Hope that you are all enjoying your final week at school before you break up for a few weeks of festiveness! I am soooooo glad that we cancelled the training session last night, it poured with rain didn’t it and would not have made for a very enjoyable training session. 

You will see that I have entitled this message ‘Challenges and Changes’ and I suspect that we will have a few of both in the next few weeks!! Firstly I bring sad news that Dan has broken his wrist and as such will be out of action for at least 3 weeks, certainly for the games against Colyton Redsocks (21/12) and CS Leopards (04/01). I am sure we all wish Dan a speedy recovery and hope that we will see him back in a Central shirt in the New Year!! We are also missing Sam P for this Saturday’s match at Colyton Redsocks, so we will be missing two big match players and will need to shuffle things around a bit. 

Julen has been handed the captain's armband for the next couple of matches. He has shown great commitment and attitude towards training and I am sure you will agree is having a great season. Well done Julen, it is a well earned reward for your commitment towards the team. So the starting team for Saturday will be: 

Goalkeeper – Sam R 
Defence – Will A, Cameron and Alfie R 
Midfield – Joe, Will P, Alfie W and Julen 
Striker – Ryan 
Starting Sub – Oscar 

So, as you will see, John and I think that it is best to bring Alfie W into a midfield position to try and offer a more solid defence formation for this game, whilst encouraging all midfield players to push up when we are in an attacking phase of play. Colyton Redsocks will be a tough test for us, they are having a good season and are just one position above us in the league table. All players will need to be alert and ready for a tough defensive game but to be alert to the counterattack and opportunities to break forward and score. Training this week was going to focus on attacking corners. In the last game against Kentisbeare, Will P delivered again and again perfectly weighted and floated corners which we were unable to convert into goals. It was a shame that training was cancelled but we might look at this if we can briefly before the match on Saturday. If we can meet at 10:00am then for a warm up and match preparation. As we are missing two players we will only have one substitute so really important that you have a big breakfast and fuel up for a tough 60minute work out :-)

 ** Dates for your Diaries ** Whilst I know we are all committed to our training I just wanted to confirm that there will be NO training on Wednesday 25th December or Wednesday 1st January. The next midweek training session will be Wednesday 8th January at 6pm at St Luke's.

Tomorrow's Weather

Hi everyone, 

Just to alert you that the weather for tomorrow evening is looking really awful with heavy rain and gale force winds!! (http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2649808?day=1) 

 I will wait until tomorrow morning before making a call but just wanted to forewarn that training might be cancelled. 

 regards 

Mark

Slick City Slot Six Past Colts

Manchester was not the only place to see City score 6 today, as Central City U11s bounced back from the disappointment of the previous week to comfortably beat Kentisbeare Colts 6-1 at a blustery King George V.

City welcomed Sam P back from injury and his delightful through ball in the first minute very nearly led to Alfie W opening the scoring but his shot went just the wrong side of the far post. City continued to create excellent chances in the opening stages of the match, despite playing with the wind against them. Ryan was unlucky to see an effort hit the bar, Dan's near post flick from a corner went agonisingly wide and from a Sam P cross, Alfie volleyed just over. Six minutes into the game, City did break the deadlock as Alfie W converted a Will P corner. A minute later, City doubled their lead as yet another fine delivery from the left by Sam left the keeper stranded and Ryan was on hand to prod in from close distance. Having established a good lead, a defensive lapse then allowed Kentisbeare back into the game with a very good finish making the score 2-1.

The remainder for the first half was a story of sustained City pressure, with the keeper doing well to keep out 2 great shots from Ryan, the latter following a superb pass from Will P. Shortly afterwards, a fantastic cross-field pass from Cameron released Ryan and his cross caused panic in the opposition defence and was handled by a Colts defender for a clear penalty which Alfie W dispatched with aplomb. Moments before half-time, Alfie claimed a first-half hat-trick with arguably his best goal of the game, setting himself up to fire powerfully into the net and make it 4-1.

Dan brings the ball out of a crowded midfield

With the wind behind them in the 2nd half, City continued to dominate, with Sam R largely a by-stander. 2 half-chances fell to Julen early on and City then had a string of corners all of which were delivered with accuracy and power by Will P. Unfortunately for City, they were unable to get a decisive touch on any of them. Alfie thought he had added to his tally when  his shot was parried by the keeper and appeared to have crossed the line, but the goal was not given. Jo made one excellent run on the left, beating a number of defenders and drawing a fine save from the keeper, before Alfie W notched his fourth, and City's 5th, with a hard shot into the bottom corner. He very nearly made it a 5-star performance when seeing a goal-bound header tipped over, before Sam P rounded off the day with a scrambled effort from a corner. There was still time for Julen to very nearly get on the end of a high ball but he couldn't quite connect and so it finished 6-1.

This was a very solid team performance from front to back in difficult windy conditions on a narrow pitch. Man of the Match went to Oscar for his improvement and defensive display. Well done Oscar!

It was great to get back to winning ways and made the post-match pizza at our joint City / United Xmas Social all the more enjoyable. It was to be City's day, in more ways than one.

Saturday's Match and a few other bits!!

Hi everyone, Such a positive training session last night, I hope that you are all enjoying the midweek sessions and feel that you are benefiting from them. 

 It was great to see Sam P back training with us, Will A was unwell but hopes to be fit for the match on Saturday (and the pizza afterwards :-)) 

 The match on Saturday against Kentisbeare Colts should be a game that we are very competitive in, and barring disastrous managerial decisions (ha), we should go into the match with confidence of coming away with three points! 

 The starting team for Saturday will be: 

Goalkeeper – Sam R 

 Defence – Will A (cap), Cameron & Oscar 

 Midfield – Sam P, Dan, Will P & Ryan 

Striker – Alfie W 

 Starting subs – Alfie R, Joe & Julen 

 The match will kick off at 10:30am so if we can arrive for a 10:00am warm up that will be great.

 It will be a busy day again at KGV with most pitches being used so you might wish to give yourself extra time to park. 

After the game we are then heading down to the Waterfront for a festive feed up!! 

 We have a great turn out with nearly 60 people coming from both City and United so it should be a great celebration of the Under 11’s teams. 

 Whilst I am here I just wanted to confirm that we will be training next Wednesday 18th December 6pm – 7 pm, this is ahead of our final match of the year against Colyton Redsocks on Saturday 21st December.

 It has been a long couple of months with back to back matches on Saturdays but I am, as ever, so grateful for all your support and commitment to the team (both players and parents). 

 See you on Saturday, 

 Mark

Wednesdays Night Training Focus

Hello everyone,

Firstly many thanks for everyone that supported the bag packing on Sunday at Tesco. This raised £670 for the club which is a great effort. Thank you. 

Training tomorrow night as normal, the weather looks fair so we should have a good session. 

The training focus will be in positional play in match situations. To do this we will be playing an extended match and looking at training tips as the game progresses. 

Although Sam P will not be at training he will be back playing for us on Saturday which is great news. 

Looking forward to seeing everyone else at 6pm. 

Mark 

PS – Did anyone pick up by accident a red under top and maroon/grey hoodie from the Sidmouth match at Newton Poppleford? Cameron left them behind and we can find them anywhere!

All for one and one for all!!!!

Hi, 

Fabulous match report as always Jonathan thank you and it offers a well balanced reflection on this mornings game. 

I just wanted to be honest with you and hold my hands up that I think it was a poor call on my part to bring Cameron off when I did. As well as Cameron having a strong game it also changed the shape and dynamics of the team, it contributed to allowing brixington to get their tails up and allowed them back in the match!!

Some times these things work, sometimes, like this morning, they don't!! Was just wanting to ensure we rotate players and give everyone fair match time. 

I'm glad that I didn't have to give a post match press conference like Premiership managers do!! 

You all played so well today and I imagine like me you feel a bit gutted to have not come away with three points. 

See as many of you tomorrow for bag packing at tesco, if not then on Wednesday when we hope to welcome back Sam P. 

Have a good weekend 

Mark 

Brixington comeback gives City the Blues

In the early morning kick off today, Central City fell to a 4-3 defeat at the hands of Brixington Blues in an match which Central played some delightful football and thoroughly dominated for the first 40 minutes. Having established a seemingly comfortable 3-0 lead in the second half, Central City were ultimately left to rue some defensive lapses as Brixington produced a spirited fightback to claim an unlikely win.

The first half saw a dominant performance from Central City and, as against Sidmouth the previous week, they almost raced into the lead straight from kick off. A lovely through ball from Dan put Alfie W in on goal, but this time the local keeper made the save. It was the first of several outstanding saves from the home 'keeper who kept City at bay on numerous occasions. City did, however, take the lead on 17 minutes as Will Pye beat a defender on the byeline and fired in from a tight angle to make it 0-1. Prior to that, City had fashioned a number of chances, notably when Ryan forced the 'keeper to tip over a lovely chip and Julen almost getting on the end of a fierce Cameron shot which the keeper did well to parry. Further chances came and went, Alfie W doing wonderfully well to spin away from his marker on a breakaway and fire just over the bar and then seeing a goal bound shot blocked by the keeper from a corner. Shortly before half-time, however, Sam R was forced into making a fantastic double save to prevent the teams from going into the break level. It turned out to be a warning sign of what Brixington were capable of producing.

Early in the second half City continued to create chances. Dan swerved past 3 defenders and his effort rebounded to Alfie W who couldn't get enough purchase on his shot to trouble the keeper. Moments later, City doubled their lead and again it was the result of some excellent play by Dan who burst into the opposition box, cutting the ball back for Alfie W to put City 2-0 up. No long afterwards, Alfie W doubled his personal tally with some excellent individual play. Winning a header in midfield, he raced on to the ball and showed great strength and composure to slot the ball between the keeper's legs and make it 3-0.

At this stage of the match, there seemed to be only one winner. What followed was certainly unexpected from a City perspective and demonstrated the importance of maintaining concentration and shape. A defensive mix-up allowed Brixington to pull a goal back and at 1-3 and 15 minutes still remaining, the home team suddenly had the wind in their sails. With City lacking their usual defensive shape and composure, two more goals followed in relatively quick succession to bring the teams level and gave the home team the impetus to push forward for the winner. It duly came with just minutes left on the clock and meant that Brixington had completed a remarkable turnaround. All credit to the home team for their perseverance and never-say-die spirit, but this is a match City will feel they let slip and should have won.

Man of the Match went to Sam R for making some excellent saves, particularly late in the first half. There is nothing he could have done about the Brixington goals and his overall display of shot-stopping and clearances was excellent. Well done Sam R!

Saturday's Match Away at Brixington

Hello everyone, Okay so sorry for the delay in putting the information about Saturdays match on the blog. 

Basically Brixington FC have problems with too many teams using too few pitches. 

So they have asked us to start the match at 09:30am. 

Thank you to everyone for your cooperation in agreeing to this request, appreciate it is an early start on a Saturday!! 

So if we can meet at 09:00 for a warm up at their pitches at Withycombe Raleigh Common, Exmouth. EX8 5EE please. 

Any problems on the day just give me a call. 

We will be without Sam Plumer again for a second week as he recovers from a knee injury but we hope to see him back at training next week. 

Will A was handed the captains arm band for the next two matches, Will has shown great commitment to training and in all matches this season, and has a great attitude. Well done Will. 

The starting team will be: 

Goalkeeper: Sam R 

Defence: Will A, Cameron & Alfie R

Midfield: Julen, Dan, Will P & Ryan

Striker: Alfie W 

Starting Subs: Joe & Oscar 

Looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow and lets try and keep up our wining ways!! 

Cheers Mark

Wednesdays training focus - Receiving and controlling the ball at pace!!

Great to get back to winning ways on Saturday boys and you should all be so proud, not just because of the win, but it was the way that we won which was so impressive.

 All 12 members of the squad played really well, it is clear to see that we are all learning and working together in training to improve our performances in match situations. 

 We missed Sam P and his attacking play and hope that you will be back with us soon Sam. 

 Training tomorrow as normal from 6pm to 7pm at St Lukes. 

 The focus of the coached session will be receiving, controlling and then distributing the ball at speed. 

 This is a tricky skill and John has a good set of drills to practice this.

 ** If you cannot make the bag packing on Sunday 8th December would you be kind enough to let me know at training so we have a rough idea of numbers. Thanks ** 

 ** Don’t forget to see Jonathan if you haven’t already got (or paid) for tickets for the social on the 14th December **

Marauding City in Raiders win

Cemtral City got back to winning ways with a fully merited 4-0 win away at Sidmouth Raiders on a beautiful sunny morning. It was a fantastic display of attacking football, full of energy, verve and some superb passing moves which were reminiscent at times of Barcelona and their tiki-taka!

The game could not have started in a more positive manner for City, a through ball from Julen enabling Alfie W to burst through and finish emphatically to make it 1-0. City continued to fashion chances, Dan making a great run on the left and Will P seeing a shot narrowly deflected wide. 10 minutes into the game and City extended their lead with some great work from Dan who got behind the defence and pulled the ball back to Alfie W. Despite having his initial shot saved, when the ball came back out to him he fired in a shot which crashed down off the bar. With both players and spectators unlike unsure if the ball had crossed the line, Dan remained alert and followed up to make it 2-0. 

City continued to exert pressure on their opponents and nearly scored again as Julen narrowly missed from a half-cleared corner. However, it didn't take long for City to go 3-0 and what a delightful goal it was. Picking the ball up in midfiled, Dan jinked past a couple of defenders, switched the ball on to his left foot and finished with aplomb. City had further chances to add to the scoreline before half-time, Will P hitting the post from a quickly taken throw-in and the keeper tipping over the bar to prevent an own goal from a corner.

City went in to the second half with a commanding lead but with the slope against them. As in the first half, they scored almost straight from the kick off, Alfie R playing a lovely ball up to Alfie W who finished unerringly to make it 4-0. The remainder of the second half followed a similar pattern, City creating several more excellent chances and testing the keeper on numerous occasions. Will P had a great shot which the keeper managed to tip over, and both Dan and Alfie went close to claiming hat-tricks. 

It was perhaps the most pleasing  performance of the season from City, with several delightful passages of intricate passing and interplay, solid performances at the back from the whole team and great running and energy from midfield to support the attack. With a number of eye-catching performances across the pitch, choosing Man of the Match was no easy task but for his attacking play and brace of goals at the start of each half, the award went to Alfie Worth. Well done Alfie!

Sidmouth Raiders match on Saturday!!

Hello everyone , 

What a great training session we had last night so thank you all for working so hard and putting in as much effort as you did. 

So we are playing Sidmouth Raiders on Saturday at their ground which is at Newton Poppleford. 

See below for some basic directions. They are mid table so far this season and will provide a nice test for us. 

It would be great to get back to winning ways with a nice win! 

 So our starting team for Saturday will be:  

Goalkeeper – Sam R 

Defence – Oscar, Cameron & Will A

Midfield – Sam P, Will P, Dan & Julen

Striker – Alfie W 

Starting Subs – Ryan, Alfie R & Joe. 

The manager of Raiders told me that they play at Back Lane, Newton Poppleford. Apparently ignore the signs saying the road is closed. 

He said that the best thing to do coming from Exeter is to go through the village of Newton Poppleford go past Chinese and Italian restaurants, go down hill and then turn left into Back Lane. 

Pitches are 300yards down this road. Any problems I will try and get their nice and early so give me a ring on 07876018577.

 ** Also just to remind everyone that your support at the Tesco Bag packing on Sunday 8th December please as this is a major source of income for the club ** 

 *** and finally……..remember to see Jonathan for tickets to the festive lunch after the home game on the 14th December!! Tickets going quickly so be quick!! *** 

 See you on Saturday ;-)

Training focus - shooting!!

Hello everyone, 

What a great game we had against Tiverton on Saturday boys, the effort and energy you all put in was anazing to see. 

At training this week we will be focusing on shooting. It is the session that we had planned for last week but due to the wet and wild weather we changed the plans a bit. 

Gloves and hats would be recommended for training. 

See you tomorrow. 

Mark 

Tickets for Central Xmas Social

Tickets for the joint Central City / United Xmas Social on Saturday 14th December at 12.3opm in On The Waterfront will be available to buy at training on Wednesday and at the next match away to Sidmouth.

The cost is £9.95 per adult and £6.95 per child and includes a pizza buffet in The Long Room which has been reserved for our sole use. Please note drinks and dessert are not included in this price. Cash only please!

This is certain to be a great event and a lovely way of getting players and family together. Siblings are most welcome to join too.

As Mark has very kindly paid a deposit, please could we ask that you buy a ticket in advance so that we can confirm final numbers to the restaurant at least 7 days before the event.

If you have any queries, please feel free to contact Jonathan on 07809 829 452 or email jonathan.d.lippman@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the Xmas Social.

City pegged back in Tiverton draw

Central City had to settle for a point in a 1-1 draw away to Tiverton in a match in which the away side racked up a host of chances but were ultimately made to pay for not making them count.

In a first half of almost incessant City pressure and dominance, it was virtually one-way traffic as the away team had a host of shots which flew narrowly wide or just over the bar. City were quicker, slicker and won almost every second ball in this period and could have easily gone into half-time 2 or 3 goals to the good. They fashioned an array of chances, with Will P, Cameron, Sam P and Joe all going close and the home keeper kept busy. One particularly fine piece of skill from Ryan, hitting a snap volley on the turn as the ball fell over his shoulder, drew gasps of admiration from the spectators and was reminiscent of David Platt's goal for England against Belgium at World Cup '90 (for younger readers, see this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtqiBAg2biw!!). Julen also came agonisingly close to opening the scoring, flicking on a Will P cross and seeing his shot go the wrong side of the far post.

Will P takes aim with one of several City shots which narrowly missed against Tiverton

The second half was more even, with City unable to keep up the relentless pressure and tiring as the game went on. Nevertheless, it was City who took the lead in somewhat fortunate circumstances as a corner from Will P crept in at the near post. Given all the near misses in the first half, it was certainly a deserved lead. Further chances went begging, with Will P making a lung-busting run from midfield, evading two challenges and firing just past the post and Cameron fashioning two chances which drew saves from the keeper. However, with almost their first meaningful shot of the match, Tiverton drew level with a shot from distance which sailed over Sam R and nestled in the back of the net. Whether the shot was intentional or not, there was nothing the keeper could have done to stop it.

City found enough energy to push for a winner in the closing stages but the nearest they came was when a Sam P shot was parried and Teo just failed to follow up before the keeper could fall gratefully on the ball. It would have provided a fairy-tale ending for Teo in his last ever match before his transfer to South London. It wasn't to be, however, and City had to settle for a point.

Man of the Match went to Will A for his tireless display at right-back, tackling strongly and distributing the ball confidently. Well done Will A!

After the match, Cameron made a presentation to Teo on behalf of the team to mark his final game in a Central City shirt. We hope that he enjoyed his time with City and that the team photo will take pride of place on his mantlepiece in his new home. Good luck Teo and keep following City on this blog!

Saturday's match at Tiverton

Thank you everyone for coming along to training last night, it was awfully cold, wet and windy but I thought it was one of the best sessions that we have had mid week so thank you. 

 Thank you also to all the parents who endured the elements!! 

 So Saturday and Tiverton! John and I would like to switch a few things around for this game so here is the starting line up. 

 Goal Keeper – Sam R 

 Defence – Will A, Alfie W & Sam P

 Midfield – Joe, Will P, Cameron (captain) & Julen 

 Striker – Ryan 

 Starting Subs – Alfie R, Teo & Oscar

 Tiverton play at College Pitch, Bolham Road, Tiverton. EX16 6SH. 

 If you can all get there for a 10am warm up ahead of kick off at 10:30am.

 Any problems as ever please let me know. Weather forecast is for bright sunshine but a chilly start so if you can all bring a hoodie or jacket that would be great. 

 See you Saturday 

Mark

Training Focus - Sharp Shooting!!

Hello everyone, 

Am still wondering how we didn’t take the game on Saturday against West Exe!!  

You all played so well and with such spirit. We are also playing with a smile on our faces which is great to see. 

This Saturday sees us playing at Tiverton and another game that should be competitive. 

Training on Wenesday will be from 6pm as always. The focus this week will be on sharp shooting! 

This should be a fun session, we would like to try and coach the skills of shooting with a moving ball, snappy shots and using your weaker foot if and when necessary. 

We are playing good football with lots of passing (a bit like Arsenal!!) but sometimes we need to have one less pass and some more direct attempts on goal.  So we will be doing some drills to work on this. 

 Goalies if you can come gloved up, it could be a busy session for you  

 See you all on Wednesday (apart from Will P)

 Regards 

 Mark

City perplexed by West Exe loss

Central City fell to a 3-1 defeat at West Exe this morning in a game which City dominated in terms of possession and chances created and where they played some delightful football at times. It was a perplexing result which did not reflect the overall performance of the team.

The match had started so promisingly for City, Alfie W almost creating a goal out of nothing when charging down the keeper's clearance and then coming close to converting a Will P corner. Following some near interplay, Will P then had a shot which went narrowly wide. At the other end, Cameron had to be alert when making a fantastic last-ditch tackle with a West Exe forward bearing down on goal. With both Cameron and Will having great shots and Alfie wriggling past 3 defenders and seeing his shot cleared off the line, it only seemed a matter of time when City would score. However, it was the home team who opened the scoring, winning the ball on the edge of the City area and shooting into the corner.

City almost responded in perfect fashion, breaking at pace before Alfie W was brought down to win a free-kick which Cameron fired narrowly over the bar. City continued to apply the pressure and create numerous chances, notably when Dan headed just over from a corner and the keeper saving with Alfie W though on goal. At the break, it stayed 1-0 to West Exe.

The second half saw the home team almost extend their lead, Joe heading off the line from a well-delivered free kick. Moments later, Alfie W was put through on goal and this time he held his nerve to finish emphatically into the bottom corner and level the match at 1-1. With the momentum swinging in their favour, City continued to push forward and what followed turned out to be the defining moment of the match. Alfie W had a shot which squirmed under the keeper's body and appeared to cross the line before the keeper could fall on the ball in desperation. City players claimed the goal but the referee had been unsighted and couldn't be 100% sure the ball had crossed the line. Instead of going 2-1 up, City were soon behind. Despite making a fantastic double save, Will A was finally beaten by a shot from outside the area and one minute later, the home team extended their lead with a shot form distance beating the keeper.

At 3-1 down, City had no option but to push men forward to try and reduce the arrears. Alfie W dropped into defence, with Cameron pushing up into midfield and Dan playing up front. City fashioned a number of chances but on a day when nothing quite fell for the away team, there were no further goals. 

All in all, the defeat was harsh and on another day, Central City would have come away with a positive result and the goals which their overall play merited. Man of the Match went to Ryan for making several great runs and for tracking back to help out with the defence. Well done Ryan!

Central U11s Xmas Social - Saturday 14th December - please tell us if you'd like to come along!

We are delighted to announce that we will be holding a joint Central City & United U11s Xmas Social on Saturday 14th December at 12.30pm! This is open to all players and family of Central U11s. We have provisionally booked The Long Room at On The Waterfront (by the Quay) and decided that the best option was to go for a set buffet (you can see details of what is included by following the link at the bottom).  The cost is £9.95 (adult) and £6.95 (child) which includes the buffet (but not drinks or a dessert).

To help with planning, at this stage we need expressions of interest for anyone who'd like to come. We will then need payment in full by the end of November (this will cover the deposit and mean you won't have to pay for anything else on the day apart from drinks and dessert).

Please could you let Jonathan know if you'd like to attend and, if so, how many tickets you'd like (jonathan.d.lippman@gmail.com or 07809 829452 or in person at the match tomorrow!). We will ask for any special dietary requirements once we have an idea of numbers.

We hope that as many of you as possible will be able to come along and help us celebrate Xmas. Siblings are very welcome too!

Central City & United U11s

Pizza Party Buffet Xmas Social

On Saturday 14^th December @ 12.30pm,

The Long Room, On The Waterfront

9 The Quay, Exeter, EX2 4AP

Tickets:  £9.95 per adult or £6.95 per child

(excludes drinks and dessert, for details of buffet see

http://www.waterfrontexeter.co.uk/buffet-options

Starting team for Saturday

Hello everyone, 

Such a positive training session last night, thank you for all coming and working so hard. 

I am writing this on my phone so the presentation and layout might not be as good as normal -  sorry. 

We are playing away at West Exe on Saturday, their pitch is at Cowick Barton Fields (link on the fixtures pages)

It's a 10:30 a.m. kick off so if we could get there for 10:00 a.m., that would be great. 

So the starting team will be: 

Goalkeeper - Sam P

Defence - Sam R, Cameron & Oscar

Midfield - Joe, Dan, Will P & Julen 

Striker - Alfie W. 

Starting subs:

Teo, Alfie R, Will A & Ryan 

Cameron has been handed the captain's armband for the next three matches. He has played consistently well this season and has also been really helpful setting cones out and getting to training and matches early. Well done Cameron. 

See you all on Saturday. Be great to get back to our winning ways!!

Mark 

Training focus - positional play in attack

Hello everyone, 

Hope you are all well and rested after our tough game on Saturday. You really should all be proud of how we played on Saturday and the effort that you all put in. 

Training tomorrow will focus on positioning in attacking formations. John will be helping us to create space and confidence in the way we set ourselves up for attacking play. 

Callad will also be joining us and will start with a warm up at 6pm. 

Look forward to seeing you all tomorrow 

Regards

Mark 

Battling City fall to cup defeat

Central City fell at the first hurdle in the Cup despite a battling performance in a bruising encounter against an Alphington side who are riding high in Division 1. Having more than held their own in the first half in the face of their opponents highly physical approach, City were ultimately undone after the break by some clinical finishing. Despite scoring two cracking goals in the game of their own, City went down to a 2-6 loss.

The early stages of the game were very even, City winning a flurry of corners and Cameron having a goal-bound free-kick blocked by a defender. Ten minutes into the game, however, and the visitors were a goal up, winning the ball on the edge of the City goalmouth and firing a low shot past the keeper to make it 0-1. Having taken the lead, Alphington continued to press and had 3 chances in as many minutes, with Will A called into action to make an excellent save from a shot from distance. City refused to lie down, however, and some persistent wing play by Ryan saw Alfie W rise to bullet a superb header past the keeper and make it 1-1. With the teams evenly matched, there were few further chances and the sides went into the half-time break level.

The visitors took the lead 5 minutes into the second half with a well-delivered cross from the left being met by an unstoppable header. Minutes later, though, City dragged themselves back into the game. With Alfie upended when bearing down on goal, it was left to Cameron to rifle a fantastic free-kick past the wall to make it 2-2. At this stage of the game, both sides were still in with a chance but the visitors finally made their superiority tell with four further unanswered goals, the final scoreline somewhat flattering the visitors. 

Cameron cracks an unstoppable free-kick past the Alphington wall to level the game at 2-2

There were many positives to take from the game. As in last week's match against Bideford, City were playing against a very well-organised team who are physically strong. It is to the team's credit that City remained so competitive for large stages of the game and there is no shame in losing to a team who play in a Division above. City can take great heart from both their performances and will certainly be wiser and stronger for the experience.

Man of the Match went to Teo for his battling display, tireless running and for always looking to use the space on his wing. Well done Teo!

So, City's name will not be on the Cup this year, but we wish Alphington all the best in future rounds.  It's back to the league next weekend for City and a chance to build on the spirit and 'never say die' attitude which they have shown against strong opponents in the last 2 games. 

Starting Team for Saturday's Cup Match

Sorry boys I made a mistake this evening with the weather!! The forecast last night was for heavy rain all evening but as it transpired it was okay!! It was a poor call on my part sorry I hold my hands up!!

Okay so Saturday's match is a cup game against Alphington. 

They are in the division above us and are having a good season so it will be a tough test again. 

As before we will play a 3-4-1 formation, with players pushing up when we are in attacking phases as before. 

The starting team will be:- 

Goal Keeper: 

Will A 

Defence 

Sam P Cameron & Julen 

Midfield 

Teo, Dan, Will P & Ryan 

Striker:

Alfie W 

Starting Subs: 

Sam R, Joe, Oscar & Alfie R 

Note to Parents - The club have informed me that for the first time in their history all pitches at King George are being used on Saturday and that this will make the car parks heavily used. If at all possible if you could park outside of the ground that would be appreciated to give space to visiting players and their families.

Looking forward to seeing you on Saturday, sorry again about the mix up with the weather tonight!! 

Cheers, 

Mark

** Mid Week Training Cancelled **

Hello everyone Just to confirm that we have cancelled training for this evening due to the heavy rain that is forecast! Sorry about this but think it is the right thing for players and parents!! I will post a message in the next day or so about the cup match on Saturday against Alphington. Thank you Mark

Valiant Central City run Bideford mightily close

A gutsy, battling performance saw Central City fall to a narrow 4-2 defeat at the hands of table-topping Bideford Blues today at a blustery King George V. 

Both teams came into the match with unblemished 100% records, the visitors having won most games by substantial margins, meaning this highly anticipated match really was a clash of the titans. After a highly promising opening period in which City matched their opponents and came to terms with their physical approach, the visitors took the lead on 17 minutes and went on to add two further goals, giving them a 3-0 half-time lead. The game had been played almost entirely in driving rain but the scoreline by no means reflected the balance of play, with City testing the opposition keeper and winning a string of corners without being able to make them pay.

The second-half, however, witnessed an outstanding comeback by City. The tone was set by intense City pressure from the off which lead to a goalmouth scramble which Bideford somehow managed to clear. The pressure soon paid off and following yet another City corner, the ball broke to Will Pye wide on the right. From there he delivered a powerful cross which deceived everyone and flew into the net, making 1-3. With the momentum very much with the home team, City poured forward, Alfie W testing the 'keeper. Moments later and it was 2-3, an in-swinging corner causing confusion in the Bideford defence and the ball nestling in the back of the net via the goalie. An unfortunate own goal, perhaps, but one which City's determination fully merited. With nearly 25 minutes remaining, it was very much a case of game on.

The ball is in the back of the net as City fight back against Bideford!

What followed was an enthralling encounter, with both teams having good opportunities to score. City went agonisingly close to an equaliser on several occasions, notably when Alfie W was one-on-one with the 'keeper and when Ryan flicked a cross from Alfie which was cleared off the line. However, City were unable to fashion the equaliser which their all-round play deserved and with 5 minutes remaining, Bideford made the game safe with a fourth. There was still time for City to almost claw back a third goal, Alfie R firing past the post from a corner.

So, a first defeat in the league this season, but on another day and with a bit more luck on their side, City would undoubtedly have got something out of the game. Indeed, Bideford had to defend resolutely throughout the match in the face of some fantastic moves from City, who combined excellent all-round inter-play and passing with grit, determination and athleticism. Bideford certainly knew that they had been in a real game and there are so many positives which City can take out of the game, not least being the first team to score more than one goal against Bideford this season. City had matched their well-organised, strong opponents at every step and can be hugely encouraged by this performance.

Yet again, it was very much a team performance with outstanding play across the pitch from back to front. Man of the Match, as chosen by John Plumer, went to Julen for his determination, flexibility in playing in midfield and defence and eagerness to bring team-mates into play with his passing. Well done to Julen, and well done to everyone for running a very good Bideford team so close.

Next week sees the league take a break, with Central City hosting Alphington in the Cup. On the back of this display, we can look forward to another excellent performance.

Starting team for Saturday's match vs Bideford Blues

Hi everyone, 

So, as I indicated in my last note we will be adjusting the team a bit to try and strengthen our defence. We are also missing Will A this week. 

Therefore the starting line-up will be: 

Goalkeeper: 

Sam R

Defence:

Oscar

Cameron 

Sam P

Midfield:

Joe

Will P

Dan

Julen

Striker:

Alfie W

Subs:

Alfie R

Teo

Ryan 

As before we will be making changes, but I aim to keep this team on until half-time, barring injuries. 

Any problems, please let me know, if not then I will see you at King George V at 10:00 for a warm up. Help with putting goals up etc as always much appreciated. 

Best wishes 

Mark 

Mark's Musings!!

A great match report from Saturday's game against CW Dynamoes, thank you to Jonathan, Micky and Lucy for your work on the blog with your words and pictures!

It was a great win, all players showing great commitment both in attack and defence. 

Our thoughts now turn on Saturday’s big ‘top of the table’ match with Bideford Blues.

I will be posting the starting team on Wednesday as before. 

Just wanted to say that we will be adjusting the team a bit to strengthen our defence which could come under sustained pressure against Bideford, they scored 11 goals in their last game! 

I hope that players and parents will enjoy the mid-week rest during half-term and will be fresh and ready for the match on Saturday. 

Just to say that it will be a busy morning at King George V on Saturday with several matches being played, so parking might be a problem.

I am not sure if you think the same, but I find the half an hour between 10am and 10.30am kick off goes very quickly! If you could be booted up and ready to go at 10am that would be great. 

 Any problems, as ever please just drop me a text, email or call me. 

Cheers 

Mark

Photos from matches now up!

Slideshows of previous matches (vs Central Utd, CS Leopards, Okehampton and CW Dynamoes) and this season's Squad Photo are now up on the blog! Just go to the Photos page to see them all.

Hope you all put your clocks back and enjoyed that extra hour in bed...

Late strikes spark victory at Dynamoes

A brace from Alfie W wrapped up a 4-2 win for City Central in a tight encounter at CW Dynamoes today. It was a match which proved one of the stiffest tests the team have faced this season and having seen a 2-0 lead whittled away, City had to win the game 'twice'.

The first-half saw Central City dominate overall possession and create a number of chances, most notably with Dan W heading just over from one of the many excellent corners delivered by Will P. Added to this, the home 'keeper was tested by shots from Alfie W and Dan W. However, it was by no means one-way traffic, with Dynamoes hitting the post from a corner and Cameron having to make several superbly-timed sliding tackles to keep the opposition at bay. 

The deadlock was finally broken 5 minutes before the break, Will P robbing a defender on the edge of the area before cooly firing a left-foot shot into the bottom corner to put City 1-0 up. Moments later, Will almost doubled his tally, a fierce shot from range bouncing back off the post and into the grateful arms of the 'keeper. And City were agonisingly close to extending their lead before half-time, Julen playing a delightful through ball to Alfie R whose powerful shot beat the goalie but unfortunately cleared the bar.

Dynamoes came close to an equaliser shortly after the re-start, a floated cross almost beating Sam R but he did well to clutch the ball on the line. City then went on the attack and following a half-cleared corner, Cameron rifled the ball into the net from the edge of the area to put City 2-0 up. With a comfortable lead, City continued to create chances, Alfie W hitting the side-netting. 

The game was turned on its head within 3 minutes, however, with Dynamoes netting two goals in quick succession to bring the match level at 2-2. The momentum certainly appeared to be with the home side but to City's enormous credit, they responded in positive fashion and Alfie W held off a number of challenges to beat the keeper in emphatic fashion from close range. 3-2 to City.

Alfie W fires City into a 3-2 lead

The match continued to remain evenly balanced, with City making inroads down the right wing through Ryan, whilst at the other end Sam R had to be brave to dive at the feet of opposing players. With the game becoming stretched, Joe had a fantastic chance to put clear daylight between the teams but opted to handle when well placed to head in. With full-time approaching, another through ball put Alfie W clear on goal and he kept a cool head to fire home and make the final scoreline 4-2 to Central City.

Man of the Match went to Cameron for marshalling the defence so effectively, making timely tackles when required and topping it off with a fantastic goal. Well done Cameron!

So, the unbeaten run continues with everyone in the squad contributing to today's win. Next up it's Bideford Blues at home and a chance to match ourselves against one of the top teams in the league. On our current form, we have nothing to fear and it should prove to be a fantastic game of football.