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Match Reports
LUTON BOROUGH - DIVISION 3 LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2007-2008!!
26th April: Luton Borough v SKF Colts
The big match of the day wasn't Chelsea against
Man. United, it was Luton Borough v SKF Colts in a winner takes all contest at Stopsley Sports Centre on a bright
but very windy Saturday morning. The stakes couldn't have been higher, because both teams were level on points and having
drawn their previous encounter who ever won this game would be crowned league champions.
As the match kicked off you could cut the atmosphere
with a knife as both sides started the game rather nervously and fearful of making any costly errors. With the wind and slope
in their favour the visitors were getting the better of the early exchanges and Errin in particular was being called upon
to clear her lines at every opportunity, which she did superbly as usual. This unfortunately was going to be her last game
in a Borough shirt and she, above everyone else, was determined to go out on a high with a league champs medal in
her grasp.
Ryan's battling and determination was commendable
and was setting the tone, as SKF had some physical players in their ranks who weren't going to be bullied off the ball very
easily. The first real chance of the game fell to the Colts number 8 in the 15th minute, but luckily for the Blues his shot
under pressure drifted harmlessly wide of the goal. The Borough supporters were then brought to their feet as Jacob fed Tyrelle
an inch perfect pass and the SKF keeper did brilliantly to halt the Borough leading goal scorer in his tracks and deny him
his 39th goal of the season. The rebound fell to Ryan, but his shot was again well saved by the Colts stopper.
Cory was chasing every ball like his grandfathers
Jack Russell and was literally covering every blade of grass in an attempt to give his team a break through before half time.
Most of the game was now being played in the middle of the park and it was turning in to a midfield battle with all the
midfielders refusing to give an inch. Just before the interval the visiting centre forward had a cracking effort hit Toby's
crossbar and bounce away to safety. That was the last real action of the first 25 minutes with the score line goal less.
Harrison was brought on, Jacob switched to the right
and Ryan was given a much deserved breather. The tension was really mounting and every challenge was being cheered on by both
sets of supporters, because they could sense one goal would probably be enough to settle this affair.
Matthew was playing his usual calm, assured game and
he looked the most relaxed player on the field. The talented left back has really come of age this season and his left foot
set pieces have been a joy to watch this term. It was difficult for both teams to string any meaningful passes together,
but in the 45th minute Harrison fed Tyrelle a clever pass which the striker took in his stride and shot towards
goal. The ball seemed to 'bobble' on the uneven surface, hit the bar and over the line to give the Blues the advantage
and in to the lead. This was probably the most fortunate of the strikers 39 goals this season and had he hit the
ball as he intended the keeper would possibly have saved it. But the ball went into the net and it was fitting
that the number 11 got the goal because he has had a absolutely fantastic season and netted an amazing 39 times
in only 21 games.
The last 5 minutes of the game seemed to last
an eternity, but there was still time to witness the save of the game when Toby somehow dived full stretch and tip the ball
over the bar when a goal looked certain. This save drew applause from everyone, even supporters from the neighbouring
pitch. Ryan was then brought back on with seconds remaining and all that was left to do was the ref to blow the final whistle
and crown Luton Borough the league champions.
Every single player deserved a mention because they
all gave 100%, Toby between the sticks, Errin and Matthew at the back, Ryan, Cory and Jacob in midfield, Tyrelle up front
and sub Harrison. Even the 2 players who didn't get a run out, Naseer and Brylee, for their vocal support and understanding.
But the supporters award was deservedly given to Errin for another perfect defensive performance and the managers award was
handed to Cory for his never say die attitude.
RYANS BRACE ENSURES
BOROUGH TITLE BID GOES TO THE WIRE !!
12th April: Ampthill Town Comets v Luton Borough
Luton Boroughs last away game of the season saw them
visit the town of Ampthill to take on the local team who they beat three nil earlier in the season, thanks to a Tyrelle
hat trick. With the sun shining and a beautiful playing surface the conditions were ideal for the Blues to turn on the style.
The visitors were on the attack right from the kick
off and Jacobs fierce drive forced a corner within the first thirty seconds of the whistle. From this corner, in similar
fashion to last week and with his back to goal, Ryan thrashed the ball in to the Comets net to give his team
a dream start. This early goal unsettled the Ampthill defence as Tyrelle and Jacob both hit the woodwork with a couple
of long range efforts, as Borough laid siege on their oppositions goal.
But, amazingly in the fifteenth minute an Ampthill
midfielder chanced his arm from distance and hit an unstoppable dipping shot, which crept in over Tobys outstretched arms
to make the scores level, somewhat against the run of play. This was probably the only way Ampthill were going to score, because
on the rare occasion they did cross the half way line Errin and Matthew were quick at hand to cancel any goal threat. Jacob,
Corey and Ryan were all singing from the same hymn sheet and they all set up Tyrelle to try and grab his 39th goal of the
season, but the home keeper was doing his upmost to prevent that happening. Then in the twentieth minute Jacob picked the
ball up just inside his half and ran at the Comets defence, who kept backing off, so he had a shot which flew in
to the net to restore his teams lead. This was another fantastic goal to add to his collection and all five of his goals
this season have been absolute gems.
Just before the interval Ryan had a shot after some
great work from Tyrelle, which hit the post and then bounced off a stranded defender in to the net to make the score
three one at the interval.
The second half started the same as the the first
finished, as the Blues were completely outplaying their opposition and unbelievably Tyrelle hit the woodwork yet again
and it seemed the striker was going to have one of those unlucky days in front of goal. The Blues were trying shots from
all angles and Ryan especially was getting closer and closer with every effort. Corey and Jacob were completely running the
midfield at this stage and had so much time on the ball.
Brylee was introduced in the fortieth minute in search
of more goals and Matthew was given a much deserved break. Jacob then slotted in beside Errin in defence. A massive plus this season has been the ability of several of the squad
to play in several positions when required and this makes life so much easier for the management team when tactical decisions
are needed.
And it was Brylee who set up Ryan to grab his second
when he absolutely thrashed the ball in to the corner of the net. This was a venomous shot which no keeper would have saved.
Naseer was brought on for goal hero Ryan and was really unlucky not to get his name on the score sheet with a couple of decent
efforts. It was quite remarkable that the score line remained four one as the ref blew for full time with Borough staying
at the summit of the league table.
Tyrelle was handed the managers award for his hard
work and quest for a goal. Ryan was awarded the supporters trophy for scoring two cracking goals and being instrumental in
the other.
CLOPHILL FEEL BOROUGH BACKLASH
!!
5th April: Clophill v Luton Borough
After the shock defeat in their last game
Luton Borough were seeking to get back to winning ways as soon as possible and climb back to the top of the table. The team
more or less picked itself as only seven players were available for selection due to illness and injuries, all that was required
from the management was the positional formation and tactical game plan. The biggest gamble taken was to play leading
scorer Tyrelle in midfield and put Harrison up front to try and use his height as an advantage.
Clophill were rooted to the bottom of the league,
but in the early stages of the game it was difficult to see how this was possible. The home team were literally going toe
to toe with the Blues and the first ten minutes or so of the contest was very much fifty fifty. But gradually Borough's undoubted
class started to tell and after some unselfish play from Brylee, who played a great ball to Harrison, who cleverly
laid on Tyrelle who cooly opened his account and put the visitors one up. Now that the Blues had managed to get their
noses in front they really started to apply the pressure and it was just a matter of time before they added a second.
Ryan was having a fantastic game on the right wing
and the Clophill defence simply couldn't contain his marauding runs being really unlucky, on a few occasions, not to
double his teams lead. Harrison and Tyrelle swapped positions just before half time and this decision enabled the number eleven
to notch his second goal of the match after a brilliant through ball from defender Matthew. This goal saw the visitors go
in 2-0 up at the interval.
Another tactical masterstroke by 'Jose' and 'Fabio'
was to bring Corey out of goal and put Brylee between the sticks to add some midfield bite and hopefully improve Borough's
goal difference, which might be really important come the end of the season. Within minutes this decision was justified
when the little midfield terrier unleashed an unstoppable shot to the top corner after some fantastic play from
Harrison and Ryan. This third goal eased the Blues nerves and they really started knocking the ball around sweetly
now that the points were sealed.
Matthew sent over over a delightful corner in the
fortieth minute and as the ball was only half cleared, Ryan spun around and with back to goal blasted the ball passed the
despairing dive of the Clophill keeper. This goal was the least the winger deserved for his efforts and more importantly gave
his team a four goal cushion. Two minutes later Corey added his second when he drove the ball under the keeper after been nicely
set up by Tyrelle. These two players were now in competition to see who would grab their hat trick first and, after a couple
of near misses, Tyrelle won the race when he was one on one with goal keeper and he expertly slipped the ball in to an
empty net.
Errin was again having an exceptional game and seemed
to take it as an insult that the Clophill forwards even thought about getting past her!! This was never really likely to happen
and she has to be congratulated for superbly protecting stand in keeper Brylee.
The high light of the game happened in injury time
as centre forward Tyrelle capped another goal scoring master class when he brilliantly lobbed the keeper from the edge of
the box to amazingly record his fourth goal of the game. This cheeky effort made the final score 7-0 to Borough
and this was a great result considering they couldn't make any substitutions and some players had to play out of position.
Errin took the supporters award for another brilliant
defensive display and her co-defender Matthew was deservedly handed the managers trophy.
BOROUGH PROVIDE AN EARLY PRESENT
15th March: Luton Borough v Maulden Magpies
Today was simply not our day with 3 very lucky goals
conceded within the space of 5 minutes we stood little chance of getting in the game.
We played well for a spell of about 10 minutes, but
we seemed to lack desire and the will to win. This coupled with the fact that we failed to convert around 10 chances led to
a convincing defeat by Maulden who are second from the bottom of the league.
An early Christmas present for SKF and looks
as though they are going to take the title this season.
Managers Player went to Tyrelle for endless effort, with
the supporters being awarded to Jacob for his unending battling.
Final score: Luton Borough 1 - 4 Maulden Magpies.
BOROUGH BOUNCE BACK!!
23rd February: Luton Borough v Orion United A
After last weeks shock defeat table topping Luton
Borough were determined to get back on track against villagers Orion United. The visitors had title aspirations of their
own and were sitting nicely in 4th place in the league ready to pounce on any slip ups by their rivals.
The defeat to Raynsford was obviously playing on the
Borough players minds because Orion had by far the better of the opening exchanges and some very nervous defending had
the management screaming instructions from the sidelines. The Blues number 1 Toby had to be at his very best to keep the scores
level as hesitation seemed to have crept in to his team mates play. Errin, as reliable as ever, was doing a sterling job sweeping
up any loose crosses and if it wasn't for her intelligent clearances the Blues could easily of found themselves a couple
of goals down. Thankfully, after riding their luck somewhat, the home side did eventually edge back into the game and captain
Tyrelle sprung to life with a mazy run past 3 defenders only to see his shot fizz past the left hand post.
Ryan was running the right hand channel really well
and seeing plenty of the ball at this stage. On the opposite side Harrison was doing like wise as the Blues realized the best
way to unlock the visitors defence was from the flanks. Corey was battling away admirably in the centre of the park as the
tide was now turning in the home sides favour and he was unlucky when his long range effort warmed the hands of
the United keeper.
Ryan was sacrificed in a tactical switch just before
half time for dead ball specialist Matthew and it was from one of his left foot corners that Tyrelle swept the ball past the
United goalie to break the stalemate. This was another clinical finish from a striker who has been at the top of his
game all season. This goal didn't effect the away side and yet again Toby was called into action with a brilliant save which
he tipped away for a corner.
With the ref checking his watch for half time Tyrelle
tried an ambitious overhead kick, which left the Orion keeper flat footed and as a despairing defender tried to clear his
lines all he could do was force the ball over the line to give Borough a fortunate 2 goal lead at the break. This second
goal was correctly credited to Tyrelle because the ball was going in to the net anyway.
No changes were made at the interval because even
though Borough were 2 goals to the good the game was still very much in the balance. The Reds began this half on the front
foot and could easily have grabbed themselves a goal or two, but after another breathtaking block from Errin you could
sense their ambition draining a little, because they must have thought they were never going to get back in to this game.
A great footballing move in the 40th minute saw Tyrelle
claim his hat-trick when Jacob fed Corey on his inside, Corey then in turn found Harrison, who laid on a delightful pass
to the Borough front man, who calmly slotted the ball home to make the score 3-0 to the Blues. In all honesty this score
line was a little harsh on the visitors and the only real difference between the 2 sides was the finishing of Tyrelle,
who had only 4 or 5 clear cut chances and took 3 of them.
With last weeks game now firmly behind them Borough
started taking full charge of this contest and were knocking the ball around like a training session. Brylee came on with
5 minutes left to protect the back line and try and keep the score line secure. Ryan was reintroduced when Corey sustained
a nasty injury and had to be withdrawn from the action, this injury was hard luck on the number 10 because his steely determination
to win the ball seemed to cause him a great deal of pain.
Just as Toby was about to celebrate a clean sheet
the Orion centre forward took advantage of a clever corner and grabbed themselves a deserved consolation goal to make the
final score Borough 3 Orion 1. Harrison was
handed the managers plaque this week for a gritty performance and setting up Tyrelle for the all important third goal. Captain
Tyrelle was deservedly given the supporters award for the second week in a row for some sublime finishing in front of goal.
RAYNSFORD STUN BOROUGH IN SMASH AND GRAB
RAID!!
16th February: Luton Borough v Raynsford
Visitors Raynsford were obviously a very strong outfit
having lost only one game this season. This solitary defeat was against Borough way back in November, so revenge was clearly
on their minds.
Borough started as they usually do, eager to snatch
an early lead and with the slight slope in their advantage it looked very much as though this was going to be a another
routine two points for them. Raynsford didn't even venture into the Blues half in the first ten minutes as Tyrelle, Corey
and captain Naseer all went close to breaking the deadlock with close efforts.
The villagers were defending for all their worth,
but unbelievably on their very first raid into the Borough half they took the lead when their number nine slotted the ball
under keeper Tobys dive. This was the first time the Blues had been behind all season and it was going to be interesting to
see how they would respond. The response was immediate and midfield maestro Jacob had a cracking left foot shot, which cannoned
off the bar and Tyrelle was unlucky not to prod the rebound home. Another rare foray into the home sides half saw Toby bravely
rush from his goal line and smother the ball at the feet of an attacking Raynsford player just as he was about to slot the
ball in to the corner of the net. This was only their second attack and it was quite remarkable they were one nil up and their
manager must have been praying for the half time whistle. His prayers were answered and as Naseer had the last shot of the
half the referee drew a conclusion to the first twenty five minutes with the score 0-1.
Captain Naseer was rested and handed the armband to
Jacob. His replacement Ryan introduced himself immediately with a shot which flashed inches over the bar. As well as the Raynsford
defence holding firm their goal keeper was having an exceptional game and was managing to keep his teams slender lead
intact. But, as it looked as though an equalizer was imminent a quick break saw the red and blacks double their lead when
a shot from absolutely nowhere somehow flew over Tobys outstretched arms and into the net. Borough didn't deserve this bad
luck because they were by far the dominant force in this game.
Errin and Matthew have had busier matches this season
and never looked like conceding, but this was turning into one of those games where Borough looked destined to lose. With
ten minutes left on the clock Tyrelle picked up the ball, rode a couple of challenges and smashed the ball off the bar and
over the goal line to half his teams deficit to 1-2.
Now that Borough had given themselves a much deserved
life line a draw looked the most likely outcome, but in the last minute of the contest the referee awarded the villagers a
penalty which was very confidently dispatched to make the final score Luton Borough 1 Raynsford 3.
It would be very harsh to be critical of the Blues,
because this was a game they would have won nine times out of ten but this result opens up the league title race for a few more
teams and these are the type of games they cannot afford to lose.
Tyrelle took both the awards this week because of
his impressive work rate and exceptional goal.
THE BOROUGH BANDWAGON ROLLS
ON................!!
2nd February: Shefford Saints Whites v Luton Borough
Luton Borough's 10th game of the season was an away
visit to Shefford Saints Whites, who have a reputation as a team that are well capable of upsetting the form book. With
only 8 players to choose from the Blues were down to the bare bones and because of the hard, frosty pitch any injury
would have dire consequences. Goal keeper Toby wasn't feeling 100% and it was touch and go if he could play or not, but
thankfully he decided to take up his position between the sticks.
Borough started the game at a breathtaking pace and
could easily have been 3 goals up inside the first 5 minutes as Tyrelle, Ryan and Cory all went close with their efforts.
A quickly taken throw by the versatile Jacob in the 10th minute was neatly headed on by Tyrelle into the path of Ryan,
who in turn hit a lovely volley, but unfortunately the ball hit the crossbar and away, much to the relief of the home sides
keeper. The Saints defence seemed shell shocked by the relentless pressure being applied by their counterparts but there was
a nagging feeling that this could be one of those games where the ball just wouldn't go in for the Blues.
This fear was dispelled when Tyrelle danced his way
through the Shefford back line and calmly slotted home into the right hand corner of the goal in the 20th minute to break
the deadlock at long last. This strike relaxed the league leaders and another delightful corner from Matthew resulted
in Tyrelle grabbing his second goal when yet again he was in the right place at the right time. It was nice to see the
players congratulate Matthew, because it has been a long time since Borough have taken advantage of his left foot in-swinging
corners. One last shot from Cory crept wide as the referee put whistle to mouth to signal the end of the half with score
0-2 to the visitors.
Naseer was brought on for Ryan and he immediately
set up his hat trick seeking captain, but his crisp shot slipped agonizingly past the left hand post. Whatever the Saints
manager said to his troops at the interval seemed to have the desired effect because his team were now playing like a
completely different outfit and were highly unlucky not to get on the score sheet. After a fairly quiet first 25 minutes Toby was now really earning his keep and as usual he was reliable
and solid in his goal keeping.
Brylee was making his first start of the season and
he slotted into the midfield effortlessly and has a nice array of touches in his armoury. The last few games has seen
a noticeable increase in the communication within the team and they seem to be growing as a unit and as team mates. Brylee
was given a much deserved break in the 40th minute when Ryan was reintroduced and his clever wing play set up Tyrelle
to shoot against a Saints defenders hand and a penalty was awarded. Cory stepped up and took the most laid back spot
kick ever and he was actually walking back to the half way line before the ball hit the net!! This goal took the sail
out of the villagers sails and the game was now over as a contest.
Some nice one touch football was now being displayed
all the way through the team and it was particularly nice to see Naseer being heavily involved in this. It was just a matter
of time before the fourth goal came along and after Matthew hit a looping shot just over, Corey smashed a low hard drive
through the keepers legs to round off another brilliant midfield performance. The number 10 has been a joy to watch
this season and he has notched some very important goals this term. The ref then decided enough was enough and blew the end
to a very satisfying day for Luton Borough, with the score being 0-4.
The 'Jose Jug' was handed to sub Nasser for being
thrown on and sticking to the task he was ask to. The supporters award could have gone to a few players, but Cory just pipped
his team mates in the vote.
JACOB SERVES UP ANOTHER CRACKER IN ROVERS
RETURN!!
26th January: Beecroft Rovers v Luton Borough
Luton Boroughs fifth away game in division three was
the much anticipated return fixture against Beecroft Rovers. These two teams met on the opening day of the season and the
game was very memorable - and not just for footballing reasons.
The long grass was making life difficult for both
teams, but this didn't stop leading goal scorer Tyrelle 'spinning on a sixpence' and thundering a tremendous shot off
the cross bar on his first attempt at goal. Another close effort from Ryan had the home defence back pedaling as Borough
seeked an early advantage. In the tenth minute Jacob was inches away from converting a great cross from Corey, after some
more clever play from Ryan, but the ball just brushed the top of his head and away to safety.
Rovers eventually got into the game and their first
real shot forced keeper Toby to perform a brilliant one handed save as he pushed the ball away for a corner. Full back Errin
was her usual reliable self and has developed a great knack for never taking two touches of the ball when only one is needed.
This gift enables her to create time and space for herself and her defensive partner Matthew.
As the game was turning into a rather scrappy affair
and most of the action was in the centre of the park, a moment of pure magic lit up proceedings when Jacob hit an absolutely
unstoppable half volley from just inside the oppositions half over the Beecroft keepers head in to the net. It was apparent
the midfielder knew exactly what he was doing, because he had a little glance and saw the keeper off his line and this goal
surely must be a contender for the Borough goal of the season. As the blues supporters were still in amazement at this strike
the referee blew for the interval with the score 0-1 to the league leaders.
Harrison was brought on to replace the hard working
Ryan and Jacob swapped to his right hand berth. Beecroft had a few decent players in their ranks, but their captain,
number seven, was really starting to run the second half. He had a few half chances to equalize for his team and it took some
last ditch tackles from Corey to make sure his efforts were in vain and these two players seemed to be having a mini duel
between themselves.
Even though the Sky Blues were now having most of
the possession Borough had the more clear cut chances and Tyrelle had a great opportunity to double his teams lead when
one on one with the keeper, but unfortunately he couldn't get his feet right as he was about to shot and the chance had gone.
One addition to full back Matthews play this term has been the delivery of his corners and its a shame Borough haven't been
able to capitalize on them in many games because they are always flighted beautifully into the danger area.
The blues were desperate for a second goal, so
the attack minded Naseer was brought on for Matthew and Jacob then slotted into his third position of the game as left
back. As the home side realized they weren't going to get past the safe hands of Toby they resorted to a few extreme
challenges and nobody was on the receiving end more than Corey. The last attack of the match was created by Tyrelle when he
split the Rovers defence with his pace and fed Harrison an inch perfect pass, but the substitutes shot just grazed the home
teams right hand post and off for a goal kick. This was the last piece of action and the ref blew up for full time with Jacobs
volley being the only goal of game.
The last two games were always going to be Boroughs
toughest of the season and they came through them with three out of a possible four points to maintain their unbeaten record.
A special mention was given to Brylee for his understanding
in not getting a game, but with the game in such a tight balance it would have been foolish to upset the team too much.
Tyrelle deservedly picked up the 'Capello Cup'
for his unselfish play and some great backtracking. Jacob was awarded the supporters award for playing in three different
positions in the match and scoring a goal which will surely not be bettered this season.
TIP TOP TOBY DENIES COLTS!!
12th January: SKF Colts v Luton Borough
A short journey across town to tackle SKF Colts,who
were sitting just 4 points behind Borough in second place in the table, was required on Saturday morning. The importance
of this game could not be underestimated because a loss for the Blues would have left their opponents just 2 points behind
with a game in hand.
The home team started the match at a furious pace
and goal keeper Toby was brought into action in the very first minute and he did exceptionally well to deny SKF an early
lead. Having had a few games without having to show his undoubted ability, such had been his team mates dominance on
occasions this season, it was obvious he was going to be kept busier than usual against opposition of this quality.
The pitch was in surprisingly good condition considering
the heavy rain the previous night but as the game wore on the conditions were getting increasingly sticky especially
in the central midfield area. Captain Corey was relishing this and was really enjoying the 50/50 challenges. Jacob started on
the right wing and even though he is predominately left footed he slotted comfortably into this position and it
was his delightful cross for Harrison, in the 10th minute, which put the visitors one up. The number 8 took his goal
brilliantly and he has been growing with confidence every week and he has emerged as a very popular member of the squad. This
goal brought back memories of the goal he scored on the same pitch, against the same opposition, last season.
Centre forward Tyrelle was using his pace to terrify
his man maker, so much so the SKF manager deployed two defenders on him for the remainder of the contest. This didn't stop
the striker from bringing out a brave save from the Colts keeper who did well to keep the score at 0-1. With
5 minutes left of the half the SKF number 9 smashed a terrific free kick goal bound, until Toby somehow managed to tip the
ball over the crossbar. As the Blues faithful were urging the referee to blow the half time whistle the same SKF player hit
the ball high into the air and it unbelievably looped over Toby's head into the net to level the scores. With this piece of
amazing bad luck the ref ended the first 25 minutes with the score 1-1.
Ryan was brought on to replace Harrison with Jacob
shifting to the opposite wing. Another impressive series of corners from Matthew had the home team living dangerously and
Tyrelle was unlucky not to add to his goal scoring tally when his clever shot hit the post. Some of the tackles flying from
both teams had the supporters wincing and the referee had to call for the physio's quite a few times as neither
team was prepared to go down without a fight. Errin in particular was in the wars and it was a real blow when she had to leave
the field when she sustained a head injury which left her with double vision. Naseer was brought on as her replacement and
one of his first tasks was to clear the ball off the goal line as the home team probed for a winner.
Jacob was given a much deserved rest with a few minutes
remaining and Brylee was added as a fresh pair of legs. It is pleasing to see that the Blues have strength in depth in all
departments and the 3 subs that were used would probably waltz in to any team in this division. A few half chances for either team
never really troubled the keepers and the ref ended proceedings with the score in a stalemate at 1-1.
This result was far better for Borough than SKF because
the gap remains at 4 points with a game less to play.
Errin was given the supporters award for some
outstanding bravery and an absolutely fantastic display especially in the first half when Borough were under the cosh somewhat.
Toby was awarded the managers trophy for some world
class saves and without him between the sticks it is fair to suggest that Borough would have probably lost this game.
MACK ATTACK !!
15th December: Luton Borough v Ampthill Town Comets
Luton Borough notched their seventh straight victory
to maintain their 100% league record against Ampthill Town Comets on a bitterly cold Saturday morning.
The visitors seemed very determined not to leak an
early goal and were more than happy just to clear the ball away from their goal at the first opportunity, but it is highly
unlikely they had come across a team with such attacking options as Harrison, Corey, Ryan and Tyrelle. And it was just a matter
of time before these four players linked up superbly to put their team into the lead within ten minutes gone, as Tyrelle added
the finishing touches to a brilliant move. The Borough number eleven has been a revelation this season and it is impossible
to ascertain how many goals he will score this term.
To their credit Ampthill played some attractive football
and they are very well drilled in the art of defending and never really made any defensive mistakes. The Blues did their utmost
to double the lead before half time but to no avail and the score remained 1-0 at the interval.
One change was made by assistant manager Ian 'Capello'
Lewis as Jacob was brought on to replace Ryan and the subs first contribution to the action was to feed Tyrelle
an inch perfect pass and the pacey striker shot across the goal keeper to grab his second goal of the game. This put the
match effectively out of reach of the Comets and settled the nerves of the Blues. From then on they never
really looked like dropping any points in this contest.
This was probably keeper Toby's quietest game
for Borough and the poor lad must have been absolutely freezing standing in the goal, because even on the rare occasion he
looked like being called in to action he was superbly marshaled by his defenders Errin and Matthew. It wasn't until the forty fifth minute that the highlight of the game occurred when Tyrelle completed
his hat trick as he single handedly beat the yellows defence and rifled the ball high in to the stranded keepers top
right hand corner to make the score 3-0 in the home teams favour.
Brylee was then added to the fray in the dying minutes
of the game, but didn't really have enough time to make an impact to proceedings and because of the freezing conditions no
body was too disappointed when the referee blew the final whistle with the score 3-0 to the Blues.
The managers award was given to Corey for his breathtaking
midfield display and Tyrelle was deservedly awarded the supporters trophy for yet another goal scoring feast.
COREYS GLORY
1st December: Maulden Magpies v Luton Borough
Today the Borough were away in the village of Maulden with rather a cold start with rain
in the air and very slippery underfoot.
From the off it was evident that Borough were very relaxed about the results to date and very
relaxed in their approach to the game they were facing today. The whole team seemed almost casual as if they were simply there
for a kick around in the local park. Still, as we all expect now, and maybe that's the reason why, it wasn't long before Borough
scored from a good passing move by Ryan to Tyrelle who slotted it simply into the back of the net making it 0-1.
Before long it was pleasing to see that Borough were still playing their passing game, which
they are so good at and with the combination of Ryan, Harrison, Corey and Tyrelle working together to move forward, it's
easy to assume that the next goal isn't far away. And you'd be right. With Corey on the ball and Tyrelle making a run to lose
his marker, you could see the next one coming as Corey made a inch perfect pass onto Tyrelle's right foot and, with an ease
which belies his age, he dispatched the ball past the outstretched keeper to make it 0-2.
It was at this point where Borough were caught napping in midfield. With Colin 'Jose'
Hakin (today without his able assistant Ian 'Capello' Lewis) shouting from the sidelines to tighten up and close
gaps, the Maulden forwards were breaking through our lines in quick succession. From nowhere came a shot from the edge of
the box by Maulden. As the ball flew through the air, you could just make out that it was going to be a difficult one to deal
with. The ball was at head height and dipping ferosciously. It bounced right in front of Toby and before anyone knew, it was
in the back of the net. Nothing anyone could have done to stop that goal. Score 1-2 at half time.
Instead of making the team drop their heads, this lifted the Borough and they seemed
more determined to fight and win the midfield battle that was developing. Our defenders, Errin and Jacob, were always present
when an attack was pressing and they fought hard to break down all that was thrown at them. Toby, as ever, working hard between
the posts to control his defence and always there when we need him most
It wasn't long before our fowards were puting another passing move together and Tyrelle put
in a lovely ball to Corey who chested it down to strike it first time into the top corner. It was simply a beautifully taken
goal from a well worked move making it 1-3.
It was at this point that 'Jose' decided to make a change and bring Matthew into the defensive
line. Matthew made his presence felt very early on when his lofted corner was met by a lovely header from Corey
on the edge of the Maulden box. It sailed straight to the top corner of the net bringing the score to 1-4.
As 'Jose' made his second substitution to bring on fresh legs in the form of Brylee in
defence, it was obvious from the way that Borough were playing that they felt they needed to command the game and did
so by dominating all over the park. It wasn't long before the Corey, Tyrelle pairing were in front of goal again and with
yet another inch perfect pass from Tyrelle, Corey hammered it into the back of the net with great accuracy that the score
had no choice in being 1-5.
The game ended with the scoreline unchanged any further and the team walked off victors again
taking the two points from a game where 'Jose' thought they were a little too relaxed.
'Jose's' Man of the Match went to Harrison for yet another game where he controlled the left
side of midfield with the supporters awarded to Corey for work rate, effort and overall team play.
Well done to all.
DOUBLE FIGURE SCORE LINE = DOUBLE FIGURE POINTS
24th November: Luton
Borough v Clophill
A cold, frosty morning was upon us when the village of
Clophill visited Luton Regional and Borough were determined to
maintain their winning streak and hoped today would keep them at the top of the table.
Clophill started the game with Borough putting on the pressure from the off and, as a result, won possession very early.
With this possession came some lovely passing and moving and it was evident that Borough were carrying their hard work on
the training ground into the game.
Early on in the proceedings Borough were awarded a free kick which Jacob dispatched with great professionalism. The
ball was flicked on by Cory to striker Tyrelle who released a lovely shot to score making it 1–0. As the game progresses
it’s evident that Borough are playing well and the villagers simply can’t stop the constant tide of pressure that
is being placed upon them.
It looks as though the Blues have certainly mastered the art of building from defence and as the play moves to the
left wing, Tyrelle and Harrison work a good one two pass. Harrison continues his run, receives
the ball back from Tyrelle and finishes in the bottom right hand corner to make it 2-0.
Once again the play is built from defence and Errin is putting together some lovely passes to our midfielders. This
time she finds Jacob, who plays the ball down the line to Harrison. As he runs forward, he
looks up to find Tyrelle, plays the ball delicately to his feet and Tyrelle lashes the ball into the top corner making it
3-0.
With Borough still dominating the game, they are awarded another throw and the pressure on Clophill is immense.
Tyrelle latches onto the ball and puts in a lovely cross to Cory who does well to toe poke it into the bottom corner to make
it 4-0.
Once in a while the villagers manage to break through our midfield, but our defence is solid, as usual, and again Errin
puts together a lovely pass along the wing to Cory, who in turn crosses the ball to the edge of the box allowing Tyrelle to
turn and shoot. We all know that when Tyrelle is on form he doesn’t miss these and he didn’t disappoint us today
making this his hat-trick and make the score 5-0.
Today saw the advent of magical play from the Blues and they put everything
together today to prove to everyone that they deserve to be at the top of the table
with further goals from Tyrelle, Cory, Ryan and Jacob.
The scorers today certainly racked up their goal scoring records and their totals were:
Tyrelle – 5
Cory – 2
Ryan – 1
Harrison
– 1
Jacob – 1
A superb performance all round and a special mention to the whole team. However,
the Supporters Player Award went to Errin with the Managers being placed in the hands of Harrison.
BOROUGH JUST EDGE SEVEN GOAL
THRILLER !!
17th November: Orion Utd 'A' v Luton Borough
Table topping Luton Borough's next opponents in division
3 were the previously unbeaten Orion United from the village of Totternhoe.
As the game started it was obvious the Blues had been
inspired by their trip to watch the England U'21's the night before and they were really unlucky not to take an early lead
when Matthew floated over a terrific corner only to see Ryan's bullet header flash inches over the home teams crossbar. Nearly
all the pressure in the first ten minutes or so was being applied on the United goal, but Borough were given a warning when
a long throw-in found the Orion captain unmarked and he hit a driving effort off the woodwork. The deadlock was eventually
broken when Ryan launched a high ball forward which found Borough's top scorer, Tyrelle, in acres of space and he
brilliantly shrugged off the challenge of three defenders to calmly place the ball in the net to surpass his goals
total of last season. This was incredibly his seventeenth goal in only nine games this term and on current form he could easily
double that figure by the end of the season.
The lead was extended even further soon after when
Matthew took another fantastic corner and the ball somehow found it's way into the back of the net to make the score 0-2.
This fortunate goal was credited to the Borough left back because it seemed nobody had actually touched the ball before it
crossed the goal line. With this two goal lead the Blues really started to impose their superiority on their opponents and
some of the football they produced, particularly from midfielders Harrison and Cory, was really easy on the eye. But even
though the football was great to watch no goal scoring opportunity was being created and it wasn't long before the villagers
sneaked back into the game when their centre half hit a hopeful clearance up field, the ball fell kindly for their striker
and he rounded keeper Toby and rolled the ball in the net. This goal, against the run of play, seemed to shake Borough
into action and after Tyrelle battled to get a shot on target the ball fell nicely for Ryan to prod home to restore his teams
two goal cushion.
This should have been points wrapped for the
away team, but for some reason they switched off and let the home side grab two quick goals they didn't really deserve, just
before half time. As the ref blew for the interval with the scores level, Borough knew they had thrown their opponents
an undeserved life line.
The second period started with United absolutely bombarding
the Borough goal and they were playing like a completely different team compared to the first half. Toby had to pull
off three or four remarkable saves to keep the score at 3-3. The diminutive goal keeper is one of the main reasons why Borough
are on this tremendous winning streak this season, because he always seems to be in the right place at the right time and
he isn't afraid to dive at his opponents feet to get the ball.
If the midfielders were guilty of not defending and
back tracking in the first half they were certainly making up for it now, because the Blues simply couldn't get the ball out
of their own half. Right back Errin, fresh from starring for Luton Town, was solid in her tackling and wasn't at all phased
in challenging players twice her size. Jacob was introduced in place of Harrison and he threw himself into every fifty-fifty
ball as if his life depended on it. This was definitely turning in to a game of two halves. However, one thing in Borough's
favour was the fact that midfield creator Cory was yet to get on the score sheet and he has an uncanny knack
of scoring important goals. And right on cue he duely obliged when a rare forage into the United half saw him hit
a long range effort past the Orion keeper to give the Blues a 3-4 advantage. The attacking trio of Tyrelle, Cory and Ryan
have now scored 36 of Boroughs 42 goals so far this season. An impressive return of nearly 86% and at least one of them has
netted in every game, except one, this season.
With ten minutes to go Naseer and Bryerly
were brought on and their fresh legs eased some of the pressure off their team mates. With the assistance of Jacob, Cory
nearly notched another goal right at the death but his curling shot just dipped over the bar. This was the last meaningful
piece of action in the game and the score remained 3-4 to the Blues at the final whistle.
Special mentions were given to all ten squad
members for a hard fought two points.
Cory was announced supporters player of the
game and the 'funky-haired' Jacob was given the managers award.
RYAN RAINS ON RAYNSFORDS PARADE
!!
3rd November: Raynsford v Luton Borough
Luton Borough returned to the village of Henlow, where
their impressive winning streak started four games ago, to cement their challenge as serious title contenders.
An astonishing start to the game saw striker Tyrelle
score from his very first touch of the ball after about twenty seconds to put Borough one up, but amazingly within a minute
Raynsford scored a cracking goal to level the scores at one a piece. The electrifying early pace of the game didn't relent,
as both teams threw down the gauntlet and the two keepers were being kept very busy. The action was literally
end to end.
A good attacking spell for the home side saw them
take the lead in the tenth minute when a cross from their right winger deflected off a Blues player and drop over keeper
Toby's head into the goal. This was unfortunate for Borough, but there was always going to be plenty of goal scoring
opportunities for them in this match, so they didn't panic and stuck to their game plan. The Blues new found philosophy
of passing the ball and moving into space was heavily rewarded, when central midfielder Cory set Tyrelle flying down the left
wing with a delightful pass, and the centre forward sent over an inviting cross for captain Ryan to scramble the ball into
the net to make the score 2-2.
Tyrelles' frightening pace was causing the home side
back line all sorts of problems, so much so that they decided to put two defenders on him at all times. The striker was also
involved in the highlight of the game when he, Harrison and Cory linked up superbly to allow Ryan to net his second goal,
as his shot crept passed the outstretched goal keepers arms to restore the lead. This goal made the score 2-3 at
the half time break.
No tactical changes were required at the interval,
because the Blues were playing brilliantly as a unit and just as in the first minute of the first half, Tyrelle rattled an
unstoppable shot pass the Raynsford keeper in the first minute of the second half, to give his team a little bit of breathing
space. This fourth goal seemed to deflate the home sides ambition and Borough started knocking the ball around beautifully with
Harrison especially enjoying himself on the left wing.
Now that the away side were completely dominating
proceedings the defensive pair of Matthew and Jacob were virtual spectators, but on the rare occasion they were called
into action they equipped themselves admirably. In the fortieth minute of the match Cory, who had quickly established
himself as the heartbeat of the team, took a vicious strike at goal which the home goal keeper could only push into the
air and the ball fell for Ryan to half volley in to an empty net and claim his hat tick to give Borough a three
goal buffer.
With the score now 2-5 the management decided
to give the hard working Harrison a much deserved rest and substitute Naseer was brought on as his replacement. Unfortunately
the second substitution five minutes later was a forced one as Tyrelle was injured when he fell awkwardly and new
Borough recruit Brylee was put on in his place. These two substitutions in no way disrupted Boroughs attacking play and some
neat touches from both players drew applause from the Blues faithful on the side line. Raynsford did have one last chance
to grab a goal back, but Toby was in no mood to let that happen and he bravely dived at the feet of the Raynsford
centre forward and smothered the ball to keep the score as it was. The referee then decided to end the game with Borough sealing the points and, more importantly, going top of the league.
Special mentions were given to Ryan for his well taken
hat trick and a captains performance, Tyrelle for another two goals and the fact the Raynsford defence just couldn't contain
him and Brylee for his first appearance and one pass in particular which left the home sides back line completely flat
footed.
The managers award went to Matthew for another faultless
display, with the supporters award handed to the safe hands of goal keeper Toby for a couple of great saves, some good
calling and playing the game with a smile on his face.
BOROUGH GIVE WHITES 'THE BLUES'!!
20th October: Luton Borough v Shefford Saints Whites
A bright, crisp, sunny Saturday morning awaited
the arrival of Luton Borough's next opponents Shefford Saints Whites to Stopsley Sports Centre.
Borough were understandably full of confidence having
won 3 and drawn 1 of their last 4 games. Nobody was more confident than centre forward Tyrelle and he was straight in to the
action after captain Errin had supplied him with a brilliant cross, but his shot on the spin trickled just wide. A breathe
taking series of play involving Jacob and Ryan in the 12th minute, set up Cory to strike the ball through the visiting goalkeepers
legs into the net to claim his 8th goal of the season. Scoring the first goal in a game is good omen for the Blues, because
they usually go on to win after taking the lead.
A fair amount of credit has to be given to the Whites,
because they battled really hard to level the scores and keeper Toby had to be at his best to keep the score at 1-0. Some
of the football on show was a pleasure to watch, but the long grass was hampering the movement of the ball. Borough thought they had doubled their lead just before half
time, but the referee had adjudged the Saints keeper to have been impeded and the goal was cancelled out. It was astonishing
that there was only one goal in the first half as the chances from both teams must have ran in to double figures.
The second half started brightly for the home team
and Matthew and Jacob combined beautifully down the left wing to set up Ryan, who hit a sweet half volley which the Saints
keeper did very well to hold on to. Tyrelle then received the ball in the centre of the goal from Cory and there wa
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