ST ALBANS CITY YOUTH F.C

Match Reports

Season 2002/03

Under 10's

w/e 22nd June 2003

Weekend to Remember for the Under 7's

City's youngest team took to the field when the under 7's took part in their first tournament at Everett Rovers. After a slow start which saw them draw 1 - 1 with Northwood and go down 1 - 2 to Watford Sports, the young saints beat Sun Sports B 4 - 0 and drew 0 - 0 with the host club. This qualified them for the semi-final of the Plate competition where they overcame Sarratt Rebels 1 - 0 and then went on to win the final 2 - 0 against Evergreen. Goal scorers for St Albans were Robbie Goldstone 2, Brad Kelly 2, Callum Maginnis 2, Josh Farmer, Jamie Turnbull, Matthew Parkin. Other members of the squad were Adam Attewell, Max Robson.

w/e15th June 2003

Under 11's North make it a Double Delight for City Youth

Following on from the fantastic win in the same compertion by the City Youth Under 10's the Under 11's North made it a double delight for the club by also claiming the Under 11's title.
The St.Albans City Youth under 11's North entered the Evergreen 6-A-Side tournament and against all the odds, won the competition in dramatic fashion with a squad of 'walking wounded' by the time they reached the final.
In the group stage they beat Comets B. 1-0 ( Elliott Goward ), Herons A. 3-0 ( Elliott Goward 2, Tommy Hunt ) and ground out a 0-0 draw with Evergreen Jnrs.
In the quarter final, they beat a strong Comets A. in a dramatic penalty shoot out after a 0-0 draw. Stand in keeper Nathan Byrne brilliantly saved two of the spot kicks.
The semi-final was won 3-1 against Oxhey Youth with goals from Elliott Goward 2 and James Laws and in the final they beat a very strong Evergreen Youth side with the vital goal coming in extra time from one of the many heroes, Elliott Goward. The other heroes were - Andrew Harris, Tommy Hunt ( capt. ), Toby Irish, Jamie Turner, Nathan Byrne and James Laws.

w/e 11th May 2003

Under 16's

16's West go down in the final

The Under 16's West played Hemel Rovers in the League Cup Final at Parminters School. Despite taking a 1-0 lead with a goal from Alex Addison, two goals in three minutes from Adam Chaplin saw Hemel Rovers come back and take the cup 2-1. The Saints piled on the pressure but could not find the equaliser.

Under 14's

14's North - League champions

The Under 14's North won the Red Division League title with a 1-1 draw away to Boreham Wood 2000, who needed to win the match to finish as champions. A goal from Ricky Miller put the Saints 1-0 up at half time before the home side scored the equaliser midway through the second half for the match to finish level and give the Saints the one point needed to lift the League title. 

14's North give way to B/W 2000 in Final

A few days after both teams meet in the league with the Saints grabbing the league title it was the turn of Boreham Wood 2000 to take the honours in the League Cup Final 2-1 with the Under 14's north just not finding their form. Goals from Luke O'Malley (penalty) and Brad Last put the Wood 2-0 up and although the saints pulled a goal back from the penalty spot (Adam Potter) it was not going to be the Young Saints day.

South v Mid Herts

The Under 14's South played the Under 14's Mid Herts in an end of season Inter club match at clarence park which saw the South side lose 3-2 after a game with numerous chances for both teams. Rob Pullman pounced on a loose ball in the box to put the Mid Herts 1-0 up but it did not take the South long to draw level with a goal scored by Matt Sumpter. Phil Atkins, for the South saw his shot pushed around the post whilst a twenty yard effort from Jamie Figg for the Mid Herts went just over the bar. In the second half John Paton went close before he set-up Rob Pullman for his second goal of the match. A few minutes later it was 3-1 when John Paton pounced on a loose ball to score. With three minutes to go Lee Findlay with a great low drive made it 3-2 then in the last minute Matt Sumpter nearly made it all square for the South but his shot was blocked. final score 3-2 for the Mid Herts.

Under 12's

Under 12's South win League Cup in penalty shoot out
 
On Sunday the U12's South played Whetstone Pumas in the League Cup Final at Parmiters sport centre which turned out to be one of the most exciting finals that you could ever see. Both teams played some superb football throughout the game which was evenly contested and it is always a pity that one team has to come away from a game like this as runners up. In the first half Whetstone were the better team for the first 15 minutes and City went down 1-0 within ten minutes of the game from a Whetstone corner which City failed to clear. This Whetstone goal then made the City boys realise that they had a fight on their hands and they immediately raised their game with some excellent passing, moves and shots at goal.City had chances of scoring in the first half from Nathan Sandiford, Alex Twyman, Josh Rolls and James Smith but could not break Whetstone down and came in at half time 1-0 down. In the second half City continued to pile the pressure on and finally managed to pull the score back to 1-1 with a Marcus Madden free kick which found striker Ross Pincus who lobbed the ball over the Whetstone keepers head. Jimmy Armstrong kept City in the game by clearing a Whetstone shot off the line and there was also an unbelievable save by goalkeeper Tristan Minall who stopped the opposition from scoring. With only 2 minutes to go in the second half James Smith was unlucky not to score with a curling 35 yard free kick which the keeper only just managed to get his fingers to and came off the crossbar.
With the score level at full time the game went into extra time and both teams continued to pressure each other but could not get that vital goal which resulted in the game going to the dreaded penalty shoot out. Citys keeper Tristan Minall saved the first Whetstone penalty and also got a touch to two others and saved the most important fifth penalty spot kick which earned him Man of the Match. City won 4-3 on penalty kicks these and were converted by Ross Pincus, Marcus Madden, Rob Walker and James Smith. This was an excellent committed team performance and each player has worked extremly hard to turn their season around in the last six months which has resulted in them winning some silverware for all their efforts.
 

Under 11's

Under 11's finish with a draw

In their last league match of the season the Under 11's North picked up a point in a 0-0 with Echoes who win the league title with the point gained in this match. Luke Campion put an effort just wide of the far post whilst Harry Honeywood in goal for the Saints pulled off a fine save. This point sees the Saints finish the season in fourth place in the league.

George Walker Memorial Trophy - Special Report and Pictures.

Under 10's

West edge it with last minute Penalty

This was a very competitive friendly between the Saints and Chorleywood which got off to a blistering start when Goro Nishioka's run and shot made it 1-0 to Saints after just 24 seconds!  After ten minutes, Saints made it 2-0 when Richard Cook's cross from a narrow angle proved too hot for the Chorleywood keeper to handle. It really was end to end stuff in the first half and Chorleywood pulled one back to make it 2-1 at half time.

All change after the interval as the other half of the Saints' squad took the field. They struggled initially and Chorleywood equalised, then went 3-2 up following some sloppy defending. Saints stuck to their task, and half way through the second half, equalised through Carl Biggs, who blasted the ball into the net from a very acute angle. In the last ten minutes, there were chances at both ends and it was starting to look like a draw was on the cards. But it was Saints' day in the end, when Chorleywood handled in the area and Carl Biggs gratefully slotted the penalty in the corner for his second to give St Albans a hard fought 4-3 victory. Players of the match for the Saints were Richard Cook, Eddie Parker in the first half and Carl Biggs, Matthew Peckham in the second.

4th May 2003

Under 17's

Joy turns to heartbreak in the EA Cup

It was a mixed week for the Under 17's as firstly they made it through to the prestigious East Anglian Cup Final by beating Sacred Heart from Luton 5-3 on penalties in the semi final after the match ended 4-4 after extra time. the semi final scorers for the saints were David Parkinson 3 and Jack Welsh.

In the final, played at Cambridge City the saints faced Bury Town FC. The Saints had most of the early play with Parkinson and Harvey giving the Bury Town defence problems.  Matt Hanson nearly gave the saints the lead when a snap shot from the edge of the box struck the foot of the post and rebounded out.  Five minutes latter the Under 17's went 1-0 up when Jack Welsh took a quick throw in which found David Parkinson whose cross found Matt Hanson who quickly fired home from the edge of the box with a low drive. However Bury Town hit back to win the match 3-1 and take the trophy.

Well done to all the players for a great achievement in getting to the final.

Under 16's

Under 16's East - League Champions

The Under 16's East played a double header against Hemel Rovers, needing just one point to become League champions of the Watford Friendly League Red Division.  In the first game nerves got the better of the Young Saints and they went down 3-1 with Joe Brame scoring their only goal and Adam Stanley named as man of the match.

Twice in the second match the Saints found themselves a goal down but each time they hit back with two goals from Joe Brame, with his second effort being a shot from 25 yards.  This earned the saints a 2-2 draw and the much needed point to confirm them as Champions. Brame was also confirmed as man of the match for the second game of the day.  Well done to all the players and management team.

16's West into the League Cup Final

Playing Old Finchleians Red in the League Cup Semi-Final and with only 12 players fit and available, West put in one of their best performances of the season.  This was an excellent game, with both teams keen to pass the ball on a very good pitch. 

The team work by West was faultless, with Tom Bristow winning the ball and Chris Payne and Sam Hatton distributing well to the front players.  Both Jaravaza and Addison always looked dangerous, and Brinsley Bailey, West’s most improved player of the season, was once again a constant menace.  The first chance came on 15 minutes, with Bailey going inches wide.  Payne then put Bailey in again five minutes later, but the ‘keeper saved well, and Addison and Jaravaza then both went close.   

As half-time approached, it looked as though Finchleians might have weathered the storm, and on the break they got the ball into the West net but the referee ruled that Kosky had been fouled.  With Finchleians still arguing, Kosky played the free-kick quickly to Johnston, who hit a good long ball to Hatton on the right.  His deep cross was met by Jaravaza, whose first touch took him past the defender and he smashed the ball into the roof of the net - a piece of quick thinking by all involved, and an outstanding goal.

It was a blow that Finchleians never recovered from, and in the second half lost concentration as 4 players were booked.  West kept their discipline and the second goal came on 63 mins, Jaravaza playing a clever one-two with Bailey before striking a fierce shot against the bar. As the ball bounced down Addison nipped in to head into the empty net.

West’s defence did not allow Finchleians a single chance in the game.  Minton was back to his best, and Steve Hawes, despite carrying an injury, swept up everything at the back.  Man of the Match was undoubtedly Chris Payne, who never stopped running and whose neat passing set up many of West’s attacks.

U16 West: David Kosky; Danny Johnston, Steve Hawes, Ollie Minton, Callum Anderson; Brinsley Bailey, Tom Bristow, Sam Hatton, Chris Payne; Alex Addison, Tinashe Jaravaza.  Sub: Alex Phillipps  

***The League Cup Final, against either Hemel Rovers or Pinnacle     Youth, will be played at Parmiter’s School, on Sunday 11 May,     kick-off 10.20 am.***

15's West Confirmed as at least Runners Up

Playing Croxley this was the Under 15's West last game of the season  and both sides could have benefited with a win, which would have put them in a strong position to challenge for league champions.

A somewhat lacklustre approach form both sides saw the opening period a very tentative affair.  Our nerves still did not go even after Andy Guard had opened the scoring for us.  We couldn't string two passes together and to be fair neither could Croxley, such was the magnitude of the overall result.  A second goal from Ashley Aimakhu calmed the nerves, and soon after even more good work by Aimakhu, sent Ben O'Sullivan through and he held off two challenges before firing past the Croxley Keeper.
Ht 3-0

The second half was a vastly improved display, and Croxley were reduced to long range efforts which were dealt with comfortably by Glen Saffery in goal.  The best goal of the game arrived after 70 mins when good work by Aimakhu and Elbourn sent Andy Guard down the line, and his pin point cross was met by the prolific Aimakhu who finished superbly.  Overall this was a good performance, however the nerves jangled until the goals arrived.

The most important factor was that we remained totally unbeaten at home this season, and credit goes to all players involved.  MOM Phil Woolford for his overall excellent play.

Under 14's

Mid Herts hit Five

In the first minute of their home match against Hatfield Youth John Paton, for the Under 14's Mid Herts gave the saints the lead when he chipped the ball over the advancing keeper.  Louis MacMillan made it 2-0 in the second half when he scored direct from a corner kick.  Rob Pullman made it 3-0 after he chased a clearance out of the saints defence. Daniel Margott made it 4-0 before another goal from Rob Pullman made the final score 5-0 to the saints.

Under 12's

Tired legs for the East

Playing their last league match of the season away to Leverstock Green on a full size pitch the Under 12's East just did not have the legs after they had played in a six a side tournament the previous day and went down 3-0.

Under 11's

North take all the points

Away to Edmonton saw the Under 11's North drawing 0-0 at half time but nine minutes into the second half a strike from the edge of the box from James Laws put the Saints 1-0 up. After a fine move James Killen finished it off to make the score 2-0, before Edmonton pulled a goal back. With around five minutes to go Elliot Goward wrapped up the points with a left foot shot from long range to make the final score 3-1.

Wata keeper

The Under 11's West were 2-0 down in their home fixture with Oakhill Youth after only ten minutes play, but the saints struck back to go in at the half time break 3-2 up. The second half was very exciting with the saints finally winning the match 5-4. The goals came from Greg Heikel 2, Callum Marjoram 2 and Andrew Jarvis. The hero of the match was keeper Robert Wata who twice saved a twice taken penalty kick.

Under 10's

10's South Runners Up

West go down to League Winners

This was Saints' final league game of the season, against the team which had already won the league in March! Right from the whistle, Alexandra Park were on the attack with power, pace and purpose, scoring their first goal within 5 minutes, and taking the score to 0-5 at half time. When the Saints had the ball they played well, creating opportunities for Jack Macleod and Goro Nishioka, but were unable to hold back the Alexandra park attacks. Nevertheless, the Saints' defence battled bravely, and Charlie Rainsford in goal made several excellent saves.

In the second half, Saints got a well earned consolation goal. Tom Weaver broke on the right and played a through ball for Luke Jefferey to run on to and put in off the post. Although the second half was a more even contest, the score ended at 1-8. Joint St Albans players of the match were Luke Jefferey for his midfield play and well taken goal, and Goro Nishioka for another fine performance in the centre of midfield.

Under 9's

Under 9's West do us proud

St Albans Under 9's West lost their semi final against Harpenden Colts 1 - 0. The two teams were only separated by a late goal in a game that looked set to go into extra time. It was a very even match with both teams going close throughout both halves. Harvey Scott nearly scored with some great shots just going wide. Thomas Reading worked hard in midfield as did Dominic Oliver, Chris Hudson, David Towndrow and Jack Evans. The Defence of Ben Attewell and Carl Palin was excellent with Captain Ben Lee making some terrific saves. A great team effort with the whole team earning player of the match. 

w/e 27th April 2003

Under 16’s

East go out of the Challenge Cup in Extra Time

The Under 16’s East went out of the Challenge Cup away to Pinnacle Youth after extra time.  The score at the end of normal time was 2-2.  The home side scored two goals in the second period of extra time to win the match 4-2.  The Saints goals came from Andy Fassnidge and Ed Callow.

West go down 4-2

Away to Finchleians Red in the league saw the Under 16’s West go in at half time 1-0 down, but although they played well in the second half they finally lost the game 4-2 with the Saints goals coming from Chris Payne and Steven Hawes.

Under 15’s

Six Points for the 15’s East

Playing a double header against Hemel Hempstead saw the Under 15’s East win both matches, 3-0 and 4-1.  In the first match two delightful chip shots from Scott Moore from the edge of the box plus a fine drive from Richie Collin saw the Saints win with ease.  In the second game the Saints were trailing 1-0 at hald time but in the second half Richie Collin quickly scored an equaliser and then notched a second after Martin King had scored two fine goals for the saints to run out winners by the score of 4-1.

 What a Classic

 A goal 30 seconds before the end of extra time broke the hearts of St Albans City West, who had given their all in a pulsating game that ebbed and flowed from start to finish.

Starting as underdogs, against an excellently organised B'wood side, the early exchanges were even, and the boys were matching their counterpart's blow for blow.  After 20 minutes a quick 1-2 between Phil Woolford and Richie Elbourn, resulted in an excellent through ball, which was met on the volley and expertly despatched by the dangerous Ashley Aimakhu. We held this lead until half time, thanks to the outstanding Ben Payne (GK).

The second half saw Borehamwood start the strongest and their quality put them on the ascendancy, staunch defending kept B' Wood at bay, and with our quick breaks the game was finally poised.  With Payne called upon to make outstanding saves it looked like an upset was on the cards, with 15 minutes to go a freak accident resulted in Ben Payne sustaining a displaced fracture to his finger.  With Payne on his way to hospital, Glen Saffery took over where his predecessor left off, producing some excellent reflex saves.  Borehamwoods' superiority finally produced the breakthrough they required, when unable to clear our lines, a B'Wood forward stabbed home from close range.  With time running out and extra time looming, Ashley Aimakhu turned his defender and finished clinically.  2-1 to St Albans.  30 seconds of normal time remained and back came B'Wood to take the game into extra time. 2-2 Full Time

Both sets of teams felt the pace, and this period looked set for penalties, until a long ball eluded our defence and a B'wood forward finished off with a chip over our keeper. With just 30 seconds on the clock there was no way back.  Both teams had given every effort in a superb advert for football, excellently refereed by Derek Coe.

Heartbroken yes, but what a classic, the boys should be as proud of their display as I was, proving they can compete with the best.
Well Done Lads

Under 14’s

Nine for the North

Pinnacle Youth were left in a daze in their match against the Under 14’s North as the Saints raced into a 4-0 lead after only seven minutes.  The score remained 4-0 upto half time but in the second half the young saints rattled in another five goals to make the final score  9-0.  The goalscorers were Ricky Miller 3, Danny Norris 2, Russell Gallagher, Adam Pearson, James Lawrence (his first of the season) plus one own goal.  Danny Norris earned the man of the match accolade whilst Stand in keeper Joe Mann was not far behind after a very good game between the sticks.

Best performance of the season

Playing at home to Welwyn Pegasus, who are one place below them in the league, saw the Under 14’s Mid Herts turn in their best performance of the season to win 4-2.  The goals came from Rob Pullman 2, Louis MacMillan and Adam Norris.

Under 13’s

Good game, no points

Also playing some nice football were the Under 13’s North but unfortunately they finally lost the match 3-2 at home to Moor Park.  The Saints goals came from Adam Hunt and Jim Crawley. The young saints keeper James Fox, once again had a very good game in goal.

Lord Double

The Under 13’s South were at home to Everett Rovers, but after a very good game the saints went down 6-3 after the game had been all square at half time with two goals apiece. The saint’s scorers were Chris Lord 2 and Robbie Phillips.

Under 12's

U12's South beat Title contenders London Colney Amber

On Sunday the U12's South played their local rivals London Colney Amber and were rewarded with a 3-2 victory with one of there best performances of the season. City had most of the game in the first half and managed to break the deadlock with an oustanding goal from James "Dynamo" Smith in the 14th minute of the game. Smith took a thow-in on the left hand side of the Colney goal area and threw the ball to Josh Rolls feet who in turn went past a defender and passed the ball to Ben Weinberg who  then fed the ball to James Smith. Smith then fired a shot in from 25 yards which curled in to the top right hand corner of the Colney goal to put City 1-0 up and this gave him his 40th goal of the season. Colney managed to pull back two goals within the space of ten minutes but the City boys continued to battle and Josh Rolls equalised for the Saints in the 26th minute of the game.Defender James Rosson also made a spectacular header off the City goal line to keep the scores level. In the second half both teams had chances of scoring and there were some excellent saves made by Citys keeper Tristan Minall and a fine header off the City goal line from defender Jimmy Armstrong. With 10 minutes to go in the second half City secured the three points with a superb solo effort from Left winger Josh Rolls who took on two Colney defenders and hit a curling left foot shot from just inside the area and into the back of the Colney net. Man of the Match this week was awarded to centre back George Hackett who had an outstanding game in fending off the Colney strikers.

Goals, Goals and more Goals

In a very entertaining game with plenty of goals saw the Under 12’s East share the points after a 5-5 draw at home to St. Albans Rangers. The saints goal scorers were David Hancock 2, Troy Petchey 2, who was man of the match and a single from Daniel Norman.

Under 11’s

South score three

The Under 11’s South played a double header away to Abbots Youth and in the first game they lost 2-0, however in the second match they shared the points with a 3-3 draw despite leading 1-0 at half time. The goalscorers for the saints were Ben Riddell, Jake Attewell and George Culverhouse.

South takes the points in local derby

The Under 11’s South then played Harvesters South at home and although the visitors held the upper hand in the first half it remained goal less.  In the second half the young saints came out right from the kick off to take command.  They should have won by more goals but had to be satisfied with a 1-0 victory. Glen Hall scored the only goal of the match with a cracking 25 yard volley. George Culverhouse hit the post, while Ben Lazarus and man of the match David Shore both went close.

Three games in a week for the North

The under 11’s North played three matches, in the first they drew 2-2 at Comets with both goals coming from two very good strikes from Elliot Goward. In their next match they finally lost 4-0 after being 3-0 down at half time away to Echoes.  Their third fixture was home to Evergreen, Elliot Goward had put the saints 1-0 up. The visitors then went 2-1 up at half time before Luke Campion struck a well deserved equaliser with a long range effort to make the final score 2-2.

West hit twelve

There was certainly plenty of goals in the Under 11’s West match when they entertained Tring Tornadoes and after leading 4-2 at half time the young saints ran out easy winners by 12 goals to 2 . Leading the goalscorers  Johnny Wata 3, Matthew Pearce 2, Andrew Jarvis 2, singles for Joel Deurloo, Callum Marjoram, Louis Gray, Greg Heikel, plus one from goal keeper Robert Wata. Jack Mallet was named man of the match.

Under 10's

Busy Week, but no points for the East

The U10 East had a busy week first playing a midweek double header away against Borehamwood 2000, and then wringing the changes for a match against Bedmond Ajax Red. Unfortunately none of the points went East.

The Borehamwood games were evenly contested with a single first half goal separating the teams in the first match, with Harry Gray and Ryan Maher impressing at fullback whilst George Figg was solid in midfield. The best period of play came in the first half of the second match, and three well worked chances were created. First Max O'Shea fired just past the post after a neat Scott Howlett flick-on, then Jacob Wroe powered through the midfield but his shot hit the outside of the post but finally Eddie Gray was on hand to follow in a rebound off the keeper. Unfortunately legs tired in the second match and in the last 10 minutes the Borehamwood pressure told when man-of-the-match and keeper James Lowthian was beaten three times.

Legs were still tired two days later when Bedmond Ajax Red were the visitors for the East's last home fixture. Unfortunately the result was a less than magnificent seven-nil, but Mark Wilson and Louis McNamara worked hard in midfield.

West extend unbeaten run to 5 games

This was a very competitive 0-0 friendly against Riverside Hibs who had done the double on the young saints in the league. Saints are a different team now and played with conviction right from the start. For much of the game they had the upper hand, creating scoring chances. Jack Siberry and TJ Ansell in their first game for Saints both came close with crisp shots. When Riverside broke out to attack they were dangerous and nearly scored when Goro Nishioka intervened to clear the ball off the line via the the cross bar and post. Apart from this one incident, the Saints defence were solid.

 Richard Cook on the left wing and Elliot Jay in midfield were joint players of the match for Saints, in a game which they never looked like losing and with a bit of luck could have won.

Six Points for the South

The Under 10’s South had two matches and won them both by identical scoreline’s (2-0). In the first game they beat Enfield Rangers with two very late goals, Cole Beel scored the first with five minutes left on the clock. Then Ethan Douglas struck in the last minute to wrap up the points.

They next played Everett Rovers away and two early goals from Cole Beel secured three points for the young saints with the second goal being set up by Ethan Douglas. Man of the match was keeper James Tipple who made three outstanding saves during the game.

Under 9's

All Square for the East

The Under 9’s East drew 2-2 away to Garston Boys with the goals coming from Alex Goldstone and Conor Emerton with a long range effort.

Under 9's West into Semi Finals

In the last cup qualifying match St Albans City Youth Under 9's West drew 3 - 3 with Comet Sports C. St Albans went two goals down in the first half. At the start of the second half Harvey Scott found the net with a fantastic strike. Minutes later Comets got their third with an unstoppable free kick. The team kept pressing forward and this was rewarded with a Thomas Reading goal. David Towndrow was unlucky not to have drawn city level, when his attempt was ruled to have not crossed the line. There was no doubt about Dominic Oliver's terrific equaliser. Player of the match went to today's Captain Ben Lee for his solid performance in goal. The whole team played well as they have in all six of their cup matches. Five wins and today's draw means they are through to the semi finals.

Winning ways continue for 9's West 

Saint Albans City Youth Under 9's West beat Garston Boys 3 - 1. A close first half saw the young saints going one down to a well taken Garston goal. In the second half city drew level with a Thomas Reading strike from a well worked free kick. Captain Carl Palin showed the way with the second and Ben Attewell made sure with the third. Jack Evans had a good game with Dominic Oliver earning player of the match. This result should see the U9's West safely through to the semi final with only one more qualifying match left to play.

Under 8’s

Under 8’s what a season

The Under 8’s finished their season with a 4-0 victory over Comet Sports after leading 1-0 at half time. The goals came from Daniel Rosson 2 and Kane Thomas 2. The Under 8’s have only lost one game out of 24 games played this season. Well done to the whole team.

Midweek Youth

Saints in League Cup Final

St Albans City's Midweek Youth side  made their way through to the final of the Allied Counties Midweek Youth League Cup with a fine 2-1 victory over League leaders Chesham United. David Hill opened the scoring for the Youth and Chris Bergin notched the winner in the second half. The reward is a final against Aylesbury United on Wednesday, 7th May at Slough Town FC's ground. 

w/e 20th April 2003

w/e 13th April 2003

Under 11's

Gower Man of the Match

The Under 11's South were at home to Harpenden Colts hawks and they went down 3-1  with Glen hall scoring the consolation goal for the Saints.  man of the match went to Darren Gower after a fine game in defence in the first half and spearheading the forward line in the second.

Killen back on form

Elliot Goward and Nathan Byrne both had efforts cleared off the line as the Under 11's North went in search of goals in their home fixture against London Colney.  James Killen, playing in mid field, back after a spell out through injury had an excellent match.

Under 10's

One goal not enough for the South

Although the Under 10's South lost 2-1 at home to Nascot Wood they did battle hard throughout the match.  They went a goal down on the stroke of half time.  But early in the second half George "Flash" Gordon scored to make it 1-1.  The visitors struck again midway through the second half and although the Saints pressed hard for the equaliser it would just not happen for the Young saints.

Wroe Man of the Match

Despite matching high-flying Northwood for 75% of the match the U10 East went down by five unanswered goals, three of which came in the last few minutes.  With the league title well out of reach several  positional changes were made for the away trip to Northwood, and for most of the game the boys showed their versatility against one of the leagues biggest teams with some good passing play. Max O'Shea made several fine saves in the first half to keep the score down to a single goal whilst Mark Wilson worked hard in an unfamiliar midfield role. The second half started promisingly but several corners failed to be converted and it was against the run of play when Northwood's second went through the change keeper's hands to fall over the line. Heads never went down but in chasing the game the midfield exposed the defence and Northwood took their chances well.  In spite of the scoreline Jacob Wroe was the Saints 'man of the match' for his crunching tackles and timely interceptions in an underseige defence.

Fine Victory for West

Saints extended their unbeaten run to four games with a fine victory over a Harvesters team who had beat them 4 -1 at home. This was no easy  win and the Saints had to work hard to overcome a strong Harvesters' defence and good keeper. The first half was a close contest, Saints' coming closest through Tom Weaver who hit the post and Stuart Cole whose shot was saved. At the other end, Charlie Rainsford was solid in goal, whilst Jamie Heaffey and Joe Murtagh gave the opposition little space or time on the ball.

The goals came in the second half. Against the run of play, Harvesters hit the ball forward from midfield and it looked like Charlie Rainsford would comfortably collect the ball. Harvesters' centre forward came in fast and following the inevitable collision, the ball rolled over the line for a cruel goal. This misfortune spurred Saints' on, and 9 minutes into the second half they equalised after a well worked move down the right. Goro Nishioka crossed and although Carl Biggs' first time shot was well saved by the Harvesters' keeper, Tom Weaver was on hand to put away the rebound. A few minutes later, another Saints attack and  this time the ball was cleared out almost to the half way line where Goro Nishioka hit a first time shot which looped over the defence and the keeper to make it 2-1 to Saints. A truly outstanding goal.

For the final 5 minutes, the young Saints' showed great composure and only allowed Harvesters one effective attack which resulted in a shot wide and goal kick. Charlie Rainsford was man of the match for a solid and confident performance in goal. If the U10s West keep playing like this the unbeaten run will continue!

Great Win for the Under 10's West

Under 9's

9's West go Marching On

Saint Albans City Youth Under 9's West gave another great cup performance beating Croxley Guild B 7 - 0. Christopher Hudson got the scoring underway with a well taken strike. Harvey Scott made it two then a Thomas Reading shot just managed to cross the line. The second half started with a second goal for Harvey. The Fifth and best goal of the match came from captain Ben Attewell his first for the team. David Towndrow was on the score sheet again and Carl Palin struck the ball well for our seventh. The defence had yet another great game and James Pellington earned our player of the match.

South earn a draw

A hard fought 1-1 draw brought an excellent season to an end for St Albans City Youth South under 9's in their match against Hemel Tornadoes.. Joe Greaves scored for City whilst Neil Pagdin was in great form for City.

Late Croxley strike costs the East

With West team players very ably deputising for absent East team players Saints were unlucky to lose this match. Saints took the lead with a goal by Tom Reading mid way in the second half following good work by Connor Emerton and Harvey Scott. Croxley equalised quickly and the match looked like finishing 1-1 but Croxley scored late to win the game. Sam Regan made two fine saves in the second half. Frazer Harper was outstanding in midfield and deserved the man of the match award.

w/e 6th April 2003

Under 17's

Saints leave it to the last five

The Under 17's played at home to Comet Rangers in what turned out to be an exciting league match between the two teams..

The Saints had already beaten Rangers a few weeks previously 4-0 to win the League Cup and they nearly got off to a great start in the first minute of the game but Kevin Hearne's shot was tipped over the bar. This was how it was to be for most of the game.  With Hearne, Danny Blyth, Jack Welsh, David Parkinson and James Harvey all having efforts blocked, pushed around the post or tipped over the bar.  With around five minutes of the match remaining the Saints were losing 3-0, to three breakaway goals, it seemed that the Saints were going to lose their first match of the season.  Then the Saints got the breakthrough, a long ball forward by Ricky Baker found David "Bullet" Parkinson racing clear and after going around the Rangers keeper he tucked the ball into the empty net.  A minute later a Robert Browell cross was handled in the box for a penalty, which Parkinson drove home for the score to be 3-2.  With only seconds remaining another long ball over the top found Parkinson racing clear once again, he then drove the ball home from ten yards to make the final score 3-3.  

Under 16's

Saints dominate the first half

Away to Garston Boys saw the Under 16's West dominate the first half but lose control in the second and lose the match 3-1, with Brinsley Bailey scoring the only goal for the Saints.

Under 15's

Busy week for the 15's West

The Under 15's West played three league games, all at home, including a double header against Sun Postal.

In their first match they beat Chiltern United 3-0 with goals from Phil Woolford, Colin Cattermole and Ben O'Sullivan after a fine all-round team performance.  In the first match of a double header against Sun Postal the match ended 1-1 after the Saints had trailed 1-0 with Ashley Aimakhu scoring a tremendous equaliser with a shot from 25 yards.  The second leg of the double header against Sun Postal saw the Saints come out on top with a 3-1 victory. Ashley Aimakhu scored with a close range header, then Colin Cattermole with a low 25 yard drive and finally Richie Elbourn with a close range effort following a corner from Phil Woolford.

Under 14's

North crash out of Challenge Cup

Playing away in the Semi-Final of the Challenge Cup saw the Under 14's North lose 5-0 after a very poor defensive display against Boreham Wood 2000.

Mid Herts turn on the style

The Under 14's Mid Herts were at home to Wheathampstead in the league, a game which saw them win easily by three goals to nil, and it should have been more but for the visitors keeper Scott Fleming who pulled off a number of good saves throughout the match.  Chris jell scored the first goal for the Saints, Adam Morris notched the second with a tremendous shot into the roof of the net.  The Saints third goal was scored by Dominic Leach.  Josh Lamonaca was named man of the match after a great game in defence.

Under 13's 

Three Goals - No points

James Crawley, Andy Teasdale and Liam McDermott all went close for the Under 13's North as they lost 1-0 at home to Chiltern United. Defender Jack Gordon was named man of the match.  The Young Saints then played London Road later in the week  and after going 1-0 down early on they hit back to take a 2-1 lead with goals from Andy Belt and Joe Citrano. In the last few minutes the visitors struck to take all three points  with a 3-2 victory. Goalkeeper James Fox and defender Owen Johns both had excellent games for the Saints.

Unfortunate for the South

In a very close match the Under 13's South finally lost 5-3 away to Pinnacle Youth after the score had been 3-3 with eight minutes to go.  the Young Saints had played very well and were unfortunate to lose. the goalscorers for the Saints were Jack Samuel, Chris Lord and Scott Corley.

Under 12's

Work hard - get points

The Under 12's West worked hard to get the points with a 4-1 victory over Edmonton Flacons at home with goals from Nick Glasgow, Arron Shaw, plus two own goals. The man of the match award went to Arron Lumsdon after a fine game in midfield.

East on target

At home to Chipperfield Corinthians saw the Under 12's East win 4-0 with goals from Ryan Hambridge, Chris Hamilton and David Hancock in the first half and Jake Palmer in the second.

Under 11's

Great Display

The Under 11 Girls bounced back from last weeks mauling and put on a great display in a game they should have won.  Unfortunately we were not able to convert one of the many chances that were created.  Everyone played very well and after a slow start the team took control of the game and gave the opposition little opportunity to score thereafter.  The half time whistle was an unfortunate interruption and the message was simply keep it going, which they did.  One of the more pleasing aspects of the game were the excellent performances by the two newest recruits who are starting to come to terms with the demands of a match.  Melissa Hazeldine went on and displayed some tremendous individual skill and Caitlin Nichol added an extra degree of dominance in defence. 

Lucy Hancock, the goalkeeper, won the Player of the Match award, not because she was busy but because when called upon she was brilliant.  Hatfield were awarded a penalty midway through the second half and she dived and saved a well struck kick. It certainly created the loudest cheers of the season.

Out of the Cup

The Under 11's North were away to Northwood in the Challenge Cup and lost out by two goals to nil after the score had been goalless at half time. The Young Saints conceded a goal midway through the second half and as they pressed forward in search of the equaliser  they conceded  the second goal with two minutes to go. In defence both Charles Norman and Jack Ashcroft played very well during the whole match.

Seven Up

Goals from Ben Lazarus, George Culverhouse and Josh Cusdin gave the Under 11's South a 3-0 lead at half time at home to Gadeside. In the second half two goals from Ben Riddell, plus two from Jake Attewell saw them win 7-1.  Man of the match was Sam Crowne.

Four out of Six

A Matt Pearce goal earnt the Under 11's West a point in their first match of a double header against Hertsmere in a 1-1 draw. In their second game goals from Johnny Wata 2 and a single from Greg Heikel saw the Saints win 3-0. man of the match in the first game was Robert Wata, Adam Bellaroussi got the vote in the second match.

Under 10's

Fair result for Under 10's West

Saints started on the back foot and were kept in the game by some excellent goalkeeping by Mathew Peckham. St Albans gained in confidence, with Richard Cook producing some positive attacks down the left wing, although City lacked the finishing shot.

The second half saw entertaining end to end football, with Goro Nishioka showing great determination in midfield. The game became stretched as both sides looked for the win, but well timed challenges from Billy Vesey and Joe Murtagh prevented Berkhamsted on the break. Both teams had chances to win the game but lacked a finishing touch, so the draw was fair to both sides.

Under 9's

Great Week-end for the 9's West

In the second of their cup matches St Albans City U9's West beat Comet Sports C 2 - 1. After unluckily going 1 - 0 down the team responded straight away. Christopher Hudson finished well scoring his first goal for the club. In the second half, after a lot of pressure by City, Dominic Oliver scored a great winning goal. The whole team played well with some good passing and team play. James Pellington and Carl Palin shared player of the match for their hard work in defence.

Playing their third cup match St Albans City U9's West beat Garston Boys Tigers 11 - 0 in a game which saw the team playing very well. The scoring started with a fine goal from Jack Evans. Two then followed from Harvey Scott with Thomas Reading finishing the half with a good strike. The second half started with Thomas scoring again then Harvey completed his hat trick. Thomas found the net again completing a hat trick. Chris Hudson was on the score sheet with Dominic Oliver and David Towndrow also taking their chances well. The eleventh and final goal went in for Thomas giving him four on the day. The defence made sure we didn't concede with Ben Lee the goalie earning our player of the match. This result now puts us firmly at the top of the group with all the same teams to play again over the next few weeks. 

What a win for the South

St Albans City Youth South under 9's chalked up their biggest win of the season overcoming Cassiobury Rangers 9-0. Goals came from Laurence Blow (2), Joe Crawshaw (2) Toby Sakata (2) Lewis Baxendine (2) and Jamarl Billy. There was also a fine performance from Saints goalkeeper Neil Pagdin when the score line was only 1-0 to City in the early stages.

Back to winning ways for the East

w/e 30th March 2003

Under 18's

Under 18's Retain the Herts County Cup

Click the image for more pictures 

St Albans City Youth F.C. Under 18's Herts FA County Cup Winners 2002/03

Playing at the Herts FA County Ground, Letchworth this seasons Under 18's,  Managed by Clive Attwood and Coached by Mark Clark won the County Cup by two goals to nil against Hemel Hempstead with both goals coming in the second half.

The Saints, current holders of the trophy have now won the Under 18's County Cup three times in the last eight years.

During the first half Jake Attwood went close with a shot right across the goal, just missing the far post.  While at the other end Nathan Maycock had to make a timely tackle to stop Hemel Hempstead from taking the lead.  David Hill had a couple of dangerous crosses cut out and Chris Bergin was causing problems to the Hemel defence with his pace but alas he was blocked just inside the box.

The Hemel goalkeeper Wayne Hughes, who had an excellent game made a number of great saves in the first half,  the first, taking the ball of Allister Collins head as he was setting himself to score and then cutting out crosses from Chris Bergin and Ollie Lowe.

Although the Saints had a number of good chances in the first half Russell Garland, the Saints keeper, had to make two good saves to keep the scoreline goalless at half time.

Early in the second half Garland had to make another fine save at the far post by pushing the ball around the post after a close range shot.  A quick free kick from Attwood found Seeby free but his shot was easily saved.  Finally the Saints took the lead when from the left David hill hit over a superb cross for Ollie Lowe to send a downward header from twelve yards into the bottom left corner of the Hemel net giving keeper Hughes no chance.

Then Collins went close with an overhead keep after being set-up by Turkentine and Hill. While Seeby went close with two efforts, the first was a shot at the near post which was saved, the second saw his header tipped around the post.

Collins, again went close before the Saints scored their second goal of the match. Lawrence Anscomb made a great run before slipping the ball to Chris Seeby on the edge of the box, who after beating three players drove the ball low under the diving Hughes for the final goal of the match.

After the match, the Saints Captain Lawrence Anscomb was presented with the cup by Mr. Robert Cleverly of the Herts FA.

Well done to Manager Clive Attwood and Coach Mark Clark and the whole team, plus backroom staff.  

Under 16's

Right Foot Cracker 

The Under 16's East were at home to William Morris in the Challenge Cup and won the match with two goals in each half.  The goalscorers were Ian Smith, Ed Callow, Danny McCafferty plus a cracking right foot shot from twenty yards from Andy Fassnidge.  Conor Smythe was named man of the match.

Into the Quarters

City West advanced into the quarter-finals of the League Cup with a comfortable victory over Borehamwood Aces.  Both sides played a neat passing game throughout the first half, though Aces at no time penetrated a City defence marshalled by Oly Rhodes at sweeper.  Hawes and Bristow combined well in central midfield as City took control of the game.  In a five minute spell City made three good chances.  First, Bristow headed wide when in space from a Hawes free-kick.  Patterson and Bailey then combined to force an error from the keeper, who spilled the ball, but somehow Bailey’s shot lifted over the bar.  The goal finally came on 21 minutes, when Gray robbed the right back and crossed for Meija to head home.

The injured Johnston then gave way to Phillipps, who combined well with Bailey and Bristow down the right to set Hawes free.  His well-placed low shot made it 2-0.

In the second half City eased up and gave Aces more time on the ball, but the defence was seldom troubled.  City should have added to their lead several times, especially from corners, with Bristow, Barnard and Meija all heading over. Then a mazy dribble from Anderson put Pollard through, but his shot was scrambled away by the ‘keeper.  Another sweeping move down the right saw Patterson beat two players before pushing his shot just wide of the post.

Aces scored a consolation goal near the end, on the break, Addison being given no chance with an accurate lob.  But the game’s best moment was saved to last, however, as Sam Hatton struck a glorious free-kick into the top corner from all of 40 yards.

There were excellent performances from Meija, Bristow and Hawes, but Oly Rhodes dominant display at sweeper earned him the Man of the Match award.

U16 West: Alex Addison; Danny Johnston (Alex Phillipps), Oly Rhodes, Ollie Minton, Callum Anderson; Brinsley Bailey (Sam Hatton), Tom Bristow, Steve Hawes (Lou Lattuca), Max Gray (JD Pollard); Kurtis Patterson (Tom Barnard), Joe Meija.

Under 15's

Four Points

The Under 15's East picked up four points in their double header away to Gadeside with firstly a 0-0 draw and then in the second game a 3-1 victory. In the second match it was a fine hat-trick from Scott Moore that gave the Saints all the points

Keeper Ben on target

In a league match at home to Cassiobury Rangers the under 15's West won 2-0 with an effort from Ashley Aimakhu and a rare goal from the saints normal keeper Ben Payne who was playing out field for this game.

Under 14's

Miller Double

Away to Hemel Blue in the Red Division the Under 14's North came away with a fine 4-1 victory.  Ricky Miller scored two goals, one of which was a rare header following an excellent cross from Adam Pearson.  The other goals came from a controlled volley from Russell Gallagher plus a cracking shot from 20 yards by Sam Dunn.  The was a great team performance with Danny Norris having an outstanding game for the Saints.

Still Top

The Under 14's South picked up all three points to stay top of the Blue division when the won 2-1 away to Chorleywood Red.  After being a goal down midway through the first half Lee Findlay pops up just before half time to grab the equaliser, his third goal in as many games.  In the second half, despite having most of the play the Young Saints could only manage one more goal, but that was enough to secure all the points as Billy Unite drove the ball into the top of the net.  Tim Attwood, Dave Trulock and Kyle Gamble all had outstanding games for the Saints.

Under 13's

Sleepy South

Playing away to Whetstone saw the Under 13's South go down 6-0 in the White division with the Saints trying to wake up after the clocks had gone forward an hour.

Under 12's

Close game

A goal in each half was not enough for the Under 12's East as they lost 3-2 away to Gadeside in a close game with David Hancock scoring the first goal and Daniel Norman the second.

Under 12 Girls

The Under 12's Girls  could only field nine players in their away fixture with Denham ladies and so the lost the match 11-0.

Under 11's

Watford ladies prove too strong

The girls were left frozen in their blocks when this game started and lost a very early goal and this virtually decided the game.  The Watford girls gave a great display of running to close down our attacks and to support their own, they reacted faster and attacked in numbers. The girls battled throughout but regularly leaked goals.  Rebecca Atkins played in defence and put on a tremendous display and showed real commitment to win the Player of the Match.  Aimee Edel did very well in midfield, matching the opposition and Tiffany Harbron never stopped at the front but was not given either the ball or support and so was left chasing the game.  Let’s hope the girls learn from this that fitness is essential as they certainly matched the opposition when it came to skill on the ball.  

 Under 10's

Three well earned points

Playing on a hard St Peter's pitch the Under 10's East beat Aldenham Warriors in their Red Division League match by two goals to one. This was a hard fought victory with several players from both sides receiving attention for  bumps, cuts and bruises throughout the match.

In the second half it was a story of three bizarre goals, but for once the Saints benefited from the luck of the bounce. The first St Albans goal came from  George Figg's free-kick from the half-way line which was missed by the keeper and to George's disbelief went into the net via an Aldenham shin. The next goal was due to Max O'Shea's determination in following in a shot which went under the keeper, followed by a goalline scramble, a backheel which hit struck the post and a rebound which hit the back of the net. The Warriors replied with a goal four minutes from time after another bouncing ball was failed to be cleared, and just beat James Lowthian who had an impressive match both on the pitch and in goal. 

Douglas Hits Four

Man of the match Ethan Douglas struck four superb goals in the Under 10's South's 8-0 victory away to Nascot Wood.  This was an outstanding team performance with the other goals coming from Cole Beel 2, Michael Hill and Max Ward.

Under 9's

West win first Cup Game

In the first of their cup matches St Albans City West U9's beat Croxley Guild B 3 - 0. A tough first half with lots of near misses ended with two well taken goals from Thomas Reading. Some more good play in the second half failed to be rewarded until Thomas completed his hat trick finishing well from a Christopher Hudson pass. A great team performance with Ben Attewell earning player of the match. 

East lose 2-0

Under 8's

Under 8's Continue to Impress

The U8s maintained their very impressive league record with a hard-earned 2-0 away victory over an impressive Croxley Guild side. 
After a goalless but keenly contested first half the Saint's youngsters gradually wore down a dogged opposition with Kane Thomas, Jack McNamara and Ross Davies impressing in midfield whilst Daniel Rossen worked hard up front.
After several strikes were saved by the nimble Croxley keeper, the breakthrough came 10 minutes into the second half when a Laurence 'the Rock' Wroe through ball was flicked on by Oliver Marjarom into the path of Luca Smalldone, who kept his cool to slip it into the corner of the net. Croxley pressed for the equaliser but Oliver Biggs and Laurence made several timely interce