Chairman Steve Slade and Life Vice President George Parker being presented with the FA 'National Groundsman of the Year' award 2008/2009 from Ian Hoare Vice-Chairman of the Wessex League on Tuesday night before the game.

'VIEW FROM THE BALCONY'

'BHHFC FA National Ground of the Year 2009/2010'

Saturday 6th March 2010 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 4 Lymington 1

After losing the last 3 games at home it was vital to get back to winning ways and Bemerton did just that against a Lymington side that didn't trouble them all afternoon. Right from the start they attacked Lymington and had two good chances in the first 2mins with Eves going the closest with his effort from just outside the box but for all the chances being created it was Lymington that took the lead against the run of play on 20min when a poor goal kick was sent straight back into the Bemerton box, a mix-up saw 3 players go for the same ball, the ball bobbled loose and left Anderson to poke the ball home 0-1. Bemerton got straight back on top and chances for O'Keefe, Sanger and Eves went begging before the 'in form' Puckett made a well timed run into the box to get in front of his marker and head home on 34mins to level the game 1-1. The last few minutes of the half saw Slade volley straight at Williamson and Sanger ghost past 4 players and put a low cross across the face of the goal with no-one on hand to put the final touch. I counted 9 chances for Bemerton and 1 for Lymington in the first half but it still ended 1-1. Bemerton started the second half where they left off and on 48mins took the lead through Jones whose cross found it's way through everyone and into the back of the net 2-1. Manager Chalk changed things around and brought on Mankin and Hughes and the busy Mankin had an immediate impact but it took until the 84min for the game to be finally wrapped up when Fisher rose to head home with an unstoppable header from a corner 3-1. Then just 4 mins later a long ball by Eves saw Jones run through and with two defenders on his back kept his cool to slot the ball into the net past the advancing Williamson 4-1.

Monday night's game is aginst Downton

See you there

Leo

Saturday 27th February 2010 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

Totton & Elling 2 BHHFC 3

With only two games lost at home so far this season and to the top two sides in the league, Totton & Elling have an excellent home record so Bemerton had to be on their game to get anything out of this fixture and with Captain Slade out through illness along with other injuries and suspensions the team was re-organised by manager Chalk. Normally Bemerton start slowly but 'Birthday boy' Puckett was having none of that, straight from the kick-off a quick passing move ended with Jones laying the ball into Puckett's path and he made no mistake firing an unstoppable shot into the far corner, so it was 0-1 in the first minute. Bemerton continued to press and stay on top and on 10mins it was Puckett again who pounced on a loose ball in the box to pick his spot past Wheeler and two defenders on the line 0-2. Bemerton were now firmly on top and being two down Totton had to press forward and the game opened up with both sides trying to create chances, Totton tried to get themselves organised but their final ball let them down time and time again and so Bemerton kept pressing and on 31min the 'on fire' Puckett was put through for a one on one after Mankin threaded a precise ball into his path, Wheeler came out but the final shot just went wide. Totton's Earl & Ward were kept busy at the back and further chances for Jones, Puckett, and another one on one, this time for Sanger were missed and Totton were let off the hook. Half time 0-2 but could of been a lot more. The second half saw Bemerton start where they left off and Rowe was unlucky with a free kick from just outside the box. Totton brought on Watts to replace his brother, and the youngster who has been with both Portsmouth and Exeter made an instant impression, but it was Bemerton who extended their lead on 59mins when Mankin and Puckett put pressure on Earl, his backpass was underhit and Sanger nipped in to slot home 0-3. Totton, who had nothing to lose, then started to press forward and made it 1-3 when Watts was allowed room on the edge of the box and his low shot found the net after Parsons got a hand to it. Parsons was then called on to make a couple of good saves to keep Bemerton in the game and showed that his form has carried over from the Poole game with his shot stopping being of a high level. Totton started to get on top and kept pressing, Bemerton started playing deeper and on 80mins Lowther's well struck shot hit the inside of the post. With Bemerton playing deeper it was left to Sanger to hit Totton on the break and on 86mins he did just that but was pulled down by Earl when he was heading for goal, Earl was dealt with leniently and managed to stay on the pitch but that was not the end of the action. Totton made the last few minutes a bit more exciting when they made it 2-3 on 88mins with Lowther finding room and hitting a cracking shot into the top corner. But the final action went to Bemerton, Sanger again was put through and with Wheeler charging out of his goal managed to win the ball and fire into the net, unfortunately it was disalllowed as advantage was not played with the whistle being blown just as he hit the ball and the result was a free kick for Bemerton and Wheeler cautioned. The game ended 2-3 and an excellent away win to keep the teams at the top of the league on their toes.

Next game is Totton & Elling at home on Monday 1st March

See you there

Leo

Saturday 20th February 2010 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 1 Poole Town 2

After yet another week without a mid-week game it was evident that the lads needed a game especially after the defeat against Alresford, but the hero of the day and Man of The Match was keeper Parsons who kept Poole at bay on more than one occasion. Poole Town, the current champions, came to Western Way with a different set of recent results and their normal loyal travelling hostile followers doubled the normal attendance and made their presence known throughout the game. Bemerton did their normal thing and started slowly and looked like they gave Poole a little too much respect in the early exchanges and Poole took full advantage on 5mins when they took the lead through Preston who made no mistake from 6yds out to head home 0-1. Bemerton then woke up and started to compete and with both sides trying to create chances the game was there for taking. Bemerton had their chances with Slade on 11mins, whose only fault was to try one more move before shooting and the shot got blocked, then Mankin on 13mins who volleyed over the bar. Poole are a strong side and with Brown up front they have a good target man and it was Brown who caused Bemerton most of their problems but I was surprised to see them play the long ball so often. On 28mins Parsons was called on to make a point blank save low to his right when Gates found some space at the far post and placed his header into the corner, a save to grace any game. Bemerton made some silly errors and gave the ball away a little too cheaply and it was one of those errors that led to the second goal. A minute before half time Brown was left all alone in the box to poke home and make it 0-2 but the final action of the first half was left to Slade whose quick break saw his low cross go right across the face of the goal with no-one on hand to have the final touch. Half time 0-2. In most games something happens that changes the game and as I am not allowed to comment on officials I can't tell you what actually happened, only wish I could, but that's another aspect of the game that's gone and up for discussion on another day, anyway the result was a penalty awarded to Poole and Lucas was sent off. Parsons made the right choice and flew across his goal to save the penalty, justice some might say, but being down to 10 men seemed to spark the lads into action and Poole could not cope with 10 men. Manager Chalk made some changes and on came Puckett who made an immediate impact and caused Poole problems with his well timed runs and speed and it was Puckett who got a goal back when he turned Poole's captain Poore inside out to pick his spot and make it 1-2. Just like the first half the last of the action went to Bemerton, on 86mins Mankin found some room in the box to fire a well struck volley only to be denied by Jones with a superb point blank save and then on 89mins Sanger was through one on one with the keeper but his final touch let him down and the ball bobbled just past the post. The game ended with Poole taking the 3 points on offer but knew they had been in a game even against 10 men.

Another week with no mid-week game so next game is away to Totton & Elling on Sat 27th.

See you there

Leo

Saturday 13th February 2010 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 0 Alresford 2

After yet another week without football due to an unplayable pitch at Fareham last Saturday and a mid-week fixture mix-up and with suspensions and injuries kicking in at this time of year the team looked as though they needed a game and it showed. With no excuses offered, on the day Alresford were the better side and deserved the 3 points. From the last time we played Alresford this was a different side, much more aggresive and much harder working, and, apart from the Alresford Manager calling for the ref to book every Bemerton player everytime a free kick was given, Alresford's playing tatics worked well. League positions meant nothing and for the neutral watching they would of guessed both sides were mid-table, Bemerton had their chances but could not take home advantage of an average Alresford side and this was probably their poorest overall performance of the season so far, and so the performance got exactly what is deserved. The first half saw Bemerton have the better of the chances with a goaline clearance within the first few minutes of the kick off, then after 10mins Rowe saw his powerful shot clatter against the bar with Chapman just a spectator and then O'Keefe headed the re-bound wide. Rogers then forced a point blank save out of Parsons at the other end and the next action mid-way through the half saw Slade's first time shot fired straight at Chapman after Jones swung in a peach of a ball. It was Gallagher that broke the deadlock on 22mins when he was left completely unmarked in the box to slot home an easy chance 0-1. The rest of the half saw both sides have half chances but nothing to write about Half Time 0-1. With just 5mins of the second half gone Jones long range effort saw Chapman fail to hold the ball first time but just managed to smother it before the advancing Puckett could get his toe on it but on 55mins Alrseford's lead was doubled when Rogers headed home from a corner, again the marking was in question and he jumped unchallenged to make the score 0-2. So with two soft goals given away and a below par performance Bemerton paid the price and lost valuable points in the race for the title. With yet another week without a mid-week game the next challange will be Poole Town at home on Saturday which will be the first time the sides will have met this season.

See you there

Leo

Saturday 30th January 2010 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

Newport 0 BHHFC 0

After taking stick from our 'loyal' supporters about my reporting skills as soon as I arrived at St Georges Park, even though they left me behind and left me to travel to the game on my own, on the way home I thought I'd put them to the test and asked them to comment about the game and maybe give me something imaginative to write about a 0-0 draw but alas they came up with nothing, a lot of noise but nothing constructive, perhaps next time? With Wimborne, Poole & Bournemouth breathing down our necks we had to get something out of this game so although not ideal, a point away from home was the best we could of got out of a game that lacked any real spark and both sides were guilty of not being able to create any real clear cut chances all game. Both sides had strong central defenders who dominated this game and apart from a couple of long range efforts neither keeper was called upon to make any significant saves. On the balance of play over the 90mins Newport probably just edged it but Bemerton seemed to be playing a little deeper which allowed Newport to press forward and apart from long range efforts from Shepherd and Stay for Newport and a close range effort from Slade the game lacked excitement for the 203 crowd watching. The only other thing worth mentioning was Hughes being awarded the 'tank top' for being left behind at the Hoverport after spending a little too long in the boys room.

Next game is away on Tuesday to Cowes

See you there

Leo

Monday 25th January 2010 - Wessex Cup Quarter Final

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 4 - 2 Laverstock

Two quarter finals in a week saw a second semi-final reached for the lads after a well fought victory over local rivals Laverstock. Although it wasn’t all plain sailing Bemerton were worth their win and got stronger as the game progressed. Similar to the Downton game Bemerton started slowly and Lavertsock had the better start scoring first on 18mins when lapse defending allowed a bobbling ball in the box to be backheeled into the net by the unmarked White 0-1. This then kicked the match into a more upbeat tempo and it took just 20mins for Bemerton to equalise, Slade ran through for a one on one with the keeper and with Parker glued to his line Slade picked his spot in the bottom corner 1-1. Laverstock then created chances and should of scored but again they were guilty of missing the opportunity to take the lead and the half finished 1-1. Whilst I was still finishing my cup of tea Laverstock scored straight from the re-start, Gallagher ran through to fire home and Laverstock went in front for the second time 1-2. Again Bemerton kept playing maybe in the knowledge that they would score again and score again they did on 56mins when good work by Slade ended when he picked out O’Keefe at the far post who obliged with a quality finish by slamming the ball into the roof of the net 2-2. Laverstock were then reduced to ten men when Dua got sent off in a bizarre incident which seemed a little harsh from where I was standing but that opened the game and Bemerton took full advantage. On 70mins Mankin fired a powerful low shot but with Parker going the wrong way it hit his foot and went for a corner, straight away there was a chance from the corner when Fisher fired his shot straight into the arms of Parker and Laverstock survived. On 82mins Sanger went down injured and Hughes put the ball out, for some reason the ball was not given back to Bemerton but it resulted in Hughes winning the ball back, crossing for Renyand at the far post, who at full stretch managed to head back across goal, and resulted in Sanger finishing the move with a well struck shot and for the first time Bemerton were in the lead 3-2. Laverstock had nothing left to offer and the game was wrapped up 2mins later when Mankin rose above everyone to head home from a corner 4-2.

Next game is Newport away

See you there

Leo

Saturday 23rd January 2010 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 3 Bournemouth 2

Bournemouth came to the gound after losing last week to Totton so this was a big game for them and for Bemerton. After the game in mid-week several of the missing players were back available so manager Chalk could field a side he thought good enough to win the game and they didn't dissapoint. It was Bournemouth that started the brightest of the two sides and they had the better of the opening exchanges and on 15mins took the lead through Wrixton after good work by Webb in midfield who threaded the ball through the Bemerton defense for Wrixton to run on and slot the ball passed the advancing Porter 0-1. Bemerton responded straight away and within 3 mins were on level terms, Sanger, who caused the Bournemouth defense all sorts of problems all afternoon with his tight control and non stop running, fired home from close range to equalize 1-1. Bournemouth settled again and it was Wrixton who caused Bemerton the most problems and he was running the show for Bournemouth but Bemerton found their shape and dealt with everything that came their way so both sides were cancelling each other out that was until the 44min when Porter gathered the ball from a Bournemouth corner and immediately spotted Sanger, he fired a drop kick straight down the middle, Byrne mis-judged the ball and Sanger was quick to run behind and run with the ball for the remaining 35yds to cooly slot the ball passed Harvell 2-1. Half time 2-1. As anyone would expect from two sides at the top of the league both sides created chances and within the first 15mins of the second half Sanger fired just passed the post for the home side and Bournemouth's Cream fired a well struck shot against the upright. Bournemouth made a change and on came Wilson for Sanderson but it Bemerton that started creating more chances to score than Bournemouth and it was Sanger again that forced Harvell to save at his feet. At the other end Cream force Porter in to a good save and two mins later Rowe forced his way into the Bournemouth box and was brought down up stepped captain Slade to take responsibilty and fire home the penalty 3-1. For the last few minutes Bemerton made a change and Eves came on for Sanger to try and secure the win. Late in the game Cann forced a point blank save out of Porter and on 90+4mins the last bit of drama of the game saw Bournemouth awarded a penalty and keeper Porter was dismissed. Captain Slade had no hesitation in taking the keepers jersey and when Vaughan hit the spot kick low to the left Slade dived and pushed the ball out only to see Wilson in the right spot to knock the rebound home 3-2. As soon as the game re-started the final whistle went. A superb win and all the players deserve a mention but two stood out for me Man of the Match Sanger and Hughes.

Next game is home on Monday 25th to Laverstock in the Wessex Cup

See you there

Leo

Tuesday 19th January 2010 - Wilts Senior Cup

Corsham Town 2 BHHFC 3 (AET)

Due to weather conditions 23 days went by before Bemerton could get a game and even after that length of time still couldn't field a full team so with 3 keepers in the squad manager Chalk was forced to field a side that was out of his control. Six first team regulars were missing and of those that did play O'Keefe, Roberts, Eveds, Renyard & Pratt were all carrying injuries so of the players that started quite a few of them were playing out of position. Luckily Corsham aren't the side we played previously and are having a tough time this season, throughout the game they worked hard but lacked any quality and discipline. Bemerton started slowly but eventually shook of the cobwebs and went through to the next round with goals from Eves,Slade and Parsons. Metcalfe did his best to help Corsham by firing home an own goal in extra time but Bemerton were in control and held on comfortably. Through the game manager chalk was forced to make changes as Eves, Renyard & O'Keefe had to come off with injuries, so he sent on the Kauppinen brothers who have both been out with long term injuries. Keeper Kauppinnen, who hasn't played since October, and keeper Parsons were sent up front, both playing opposite ends to what they are use to but chased things down and the Corsham defense couldn't cope with the enthusiatic Parsons. Parsons had everything, speed, ability and although not on for long had several shots all of which were on target, one of them, an overhead kick would of graced any game. It was Parsons who deservedly won the game for Bemerton when he found himself with the ball some 35 yards out, his run took him passed the last defender and he kept his head to go round the keeper and fire home. So with a makeshift side Bemerton still had enough to see of Corsham to go into the next round.

Monday 28th December 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 4 Laverstock 2

A bumper local crowd watched Bemerton confirm there league position with a win over Laverstock. This was a similar encounter to the earlier local derby against Downton and had Perrett had his shooting boots on he could of punished Bemerton early on but in the end Bemerton's higher quality shone through and won the game. Laverstock took the lead through Perrett after the impressive Dua had his shot saved by Porter only to see the ball land at Perrett's feet to tap in 0-1. It only took 5mins for Slade to equalize when O'Keefe hit a long ball into the box and Slade's superior air power saw him rise above everyone and head home 1-1. The next goal saw the favour returned when Slade crossed for O'Keefe to lose his marker and head home 2-1. The last goal of the half came from Cox who late run into the box gave him the space he needed to fire home 3-1. The second half saw Laverstock try to get back into the game but Bemerton's defense were too strong. Gallagher made it 3-2 when he found a bit of space on the edge of the box and curled in a superb shot. Bemerton kept Laverstock at bay and two late chances for Jones who firstly missed from 3 yards out after good work from Eves and then carved out a chance for himself only to shoot wide. The final nail in Laverstock's coffin came when Slade found Eastham who looked up and picked out Sanger in the box with a pin point cross and Sanger picked his spot to fire home 4-2.

Saturday 12th December 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 1 Newport 0

Bemerton kept pressure on the other teams at the top with a hard earned win against another side who have had previous experience at a higher level. Newport will probably feel that they should have got something from this game as they had their share of possession but for all their hard work it was a combination of some determined defending by Bemerton and Newport's lack of finding the final ball that let them down and led to Bemerton earning this result and taking the three points. The game was not a great spectator's event and it was decided by a penalty as early as the 10th minute when the ref spotted a handball and up stepped Slade to fire home a low powerful shot giving the keeper no chance 1-0. Bemerton created more chances than Newport but failed each time to convert them, in the first half chances fell to Slade who mis-timed his shot and saw it go wide of the upright, Sanger, who was a constant thorn in Newport's defense all game, was put through by Eves but shot wide and Jones who powerful shot flew over the bar. Although Newport failed to create too many chances they did test keeper Porter but he was more than able to deal with whatever came his way and the half finished 1-0. The second half followed the same pattern as the first with both sides playing a passing game and both having equal share of possession but again it was Bemerton that created mores chances than Newport. Bemerton started using both flanks and it was Rowe and Slade who exposed these areas and caused both the Newport full backs problems, O'Keefe just failed to reach a low cross from Slade and 2mins later O'Keefe, again fed by Slade, volleyed over from the edge of the box. On 75mins Newport's best chance of the game fell to Seabrook who found himself unmarked in the box but failed to connect correctly and Porter managed to steer the ball out for a corner, the resulting corner saw Porter called into action again when the busy Scover fired in a powerful drive but Porter again made it look a comfortable save. Newport have scored most of their goals in the last quarter of the game and they nearly got an equaliser on 83mins when Seabrook tested Porter with his best effort of the game but Porter dived full length to tip round the post, the last chance of the game fell to Slade whose sweetly struck shot was palmed round the post by Streeter. A hard earned win but keeps Bemerton in the chase and if you can win and not play your best then that is a good sign.

Tuesday is away to Ringwood in the Wessex Cup

See you there

Leo

Monday 30th November 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 0 Winchester City 3

Winchester City took Bemerton's unbeaten home record and took revenge for two defeats by Bemerton earlier in the season. The new Winchester side included several players who have played at a higher level and it showed, the most impresive of these being full back Mtarandi who runs created two of the three goals. The game was played at a fast pace for all of the first half and the first goal came on 10mins when ex-Bemerton player Glasspool was left unmarked at the far post to head home an easy chance 0-1. Winchester continued to create problems for Bemerton and on 35mins Lynch was guilty of missing from just 6yds out. Bemerton worked hard and nearly equalised on 40mins when Pratt's outstreched leg just failed to connect then just two minutes later a powerful low shot by Slade hit Pratt who couldn't get out of the way. Half Time 0-1. Both sides came out at a fast pace and Sanger had a good chance to equalise but his effort hit the side netting. Then on 50mins Winchester got awarded a soft penalty and up stepped Cox, Porter got his hand to the ball but it managed to get over the line to make it 0-2. Both Winchester and Bemerton had chances, Winchester's Lynch hit the bar from 25 yds out and Roberts shot was cleared off the line. Cox then scored on 65 mins ending a good move with Mtarandi providing the final cross 0-3. Bemerton then had three good chances two hitting the post and one more cleared off the line along with this a point blank header from 5 yds out was saved by Anderson from O'Keefe, Bemerton were never going to score. The game ended with Winchester being worthy winners but had all the efforts found the net the game could of ended much closer.

Saturday is away at Hamworthy I can't make it but will keep it touch

See you soon

Leo

Saturday 28th November 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

Alresford 0 BHHFC 1

Bemerton extended their unbeaten league run to 9 games by securing 3 points in a tricky fixture against an Alresford side who have proved to be difficult to beat on their own ground. Conditions played a big part in the way the game was played and on a soggy surface and with the added rain during the game it was always going to be hard work for both sets of players trying to keep their footing. Alresford started the brightest and for the first 10mins tested the Bemerton defense but they coped with everything Alresford had to offer and soon the game settled into an open contest with both sides trying to win the game. Not too many clear chances from either side but Bemerton probably had the best of them with Sanger on 15mins and Rowe on 17mins missing within minutes of each other. Then on 17mins a second corner by Rowe after the first had been scrambled away saw Fisher net his second of the season with a well taken shot through a crowd of players 0-1. Straight after the goal Hughes had to come off with an injury and the reliable 'elder statesman of the team' Renyard replaced him, the rest of the half saw both sides cancelling each other out and at Half Time the score remained 0-1. The second half saw Bemerton more in control and although they had more of he play couldn't break down the stubborn Alresford defense. Alresford's only chance of the entire game came halfway through the second half and saw Findlay shoot wide from a good position apart from that Porter had no saves to make the whole game. Chalk tried to changes things to secure the points and O'Keefe replaced Pratt on 75mins and Alresford made two substitutions to try and steal a point but the game ended with a Bemerton victory which was about right on the balance of play.

Monday sees a home fixture against Winchester

See you there

Leo

Saturday 21st November 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

New Milton 1 BHHFC 2

In appalling conditions, and with many games abandoned, Bemerton battled through the conditions and continued their league campain with another good away win making it unbeaten in eight league games. Both sides found it better playing against the strong wind and even though Bemerton had the wind in their backs in the first half New Milton took the lead on 35mins when the wind held up a through ball and Booker ran on and tucked it underneath the advancing Porter 1-0. Bemerton pressed but found it hard to control the pace of the final ball and it took a helping hand from the wind to get the equaliser, a corner on 39mins saw Rowe curl the ball in and it went straight into the top corner to make it 1-1. Half chances came and went but the half ended 1-1. The strong wind got even harder in the second half and along with the rain made it extremely difficult for both sides to play, Bemerton coped better against the wind and started to create more chances and made the compact New Milton defense and keeper Loader work hard to keep the game level. Manager Chalk made a change and brought on Pratt and it was an inspired substitution as it was the busy Pratt that ended a smart move in the 82min to score the winner. A move down the right which ended with Rowe backheeling the ball into Pratt's path and saw him run 25yds to slot the ball passed Loader into the bottom corner 1-2.

Next game Ringwood away on Tues, weather permitting.

See you there

Leo

Monday 16th November 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 1 Hamworthy 1

Different weather, different game and different views. In the end Hamworthy were happy with a point but Bemerton felt it was two points dropped especially after being guilty of missing several chances throughout the game. After the last game Bemerton got back to the passing game they have been playing all season and Hamworthy had to work extremely hard to contain them. Within the first 5 minutes Bemerton created two good chances and O'Keefe was guilty of missing both of them, the first half continued in the same way with Bemerton on top and creating oppurtunities only to see them either squandered or cleared by the solid Hamworthy defense. On 33 minutes keeper Parsons fed the ball to Hughes he found Jones out wide on the left, Hughes continued his run and Jones laid the ball back inside, Hughes looked up knocked in a curling cross and Sanger, who had timed his run perfectly, rose above everyone and powered home the header 1-0. Half time 1-0. Bemerton continued to press Hamworthy and within 15 minutes of the restart Hughes again was involved in a move that saw him lay a square ball into the path of the normally reliable Rowe only to see him blast it over the bar from only 10yds out. A penalty claim followed when a corner by Rowe was curled in and handled on the line but it was turned down. Hamworthy gradually crept into the game and their hard work paid off on 84 minutes when Mutch found himself unmarked at the far post and headed in an easy chance 1-1. The with just 2 minutes left another corner saw Fisher rise and head down only to see Shergold fall on the ball and scramble it away.

Next game is New Milton away on Saturday

See you there

Leo

Saturday 14th November 2009 - FA Vase

Shortwood 3 BHHFC 0

Bemerton's unbeaten run of 12 games came to an abrupt end at the hands of Shortwood. The game was played on top of a hill in gale force winds and with driving rain blowing straight down the pitch so home advantage was a major advantage. It wasn't a day for playing football it was a day to roll up the sleeves and take your chances with the wind and Shortwood did just that and were worthy winners on the day. Bemerton started with the wind behind them and as expected Shortwood's tatics were to defend deep and try to catch Bemerton on the break and they did just that on 18 minutes, a mistake in the Bemerton defense allowed Shortwood to get the first goal. Bemerton did get the ball in the net soon after that but it was disallowed and then frustration started set in and with things not going their way and decisions going against them Bemerton's normal game was just not evident. Half time came and they went it 1-0 down. Shortwood, a strong physical side, carried on with their game and the second goal came mid-way through the half when a corner was swung in, Parsons in goal was held down but it went unoticed by the officials and it was knocked in to make it 2-0, this led to further frustration with the officials and nothing was going Bemertons way. Bemerton then struck the inside of the post but it fell kindly and was cleared off the line then another chance within 10 minutes of that was also cleared off the line so Bemerton did have their chances but the third goal later on in the half put the final nail in the coffin and the game was over. A miserable day all round and one to forget but another lesson learned for the young squad of players on how to cope with difficult conditions. The best performance of the day was the coach driver coping with the narrowest of lanes up the very steep hill on the way to the ground.

Monday night is home to Hamworthy

See you there

Leo

Tuesday 10th November 2009 - Russell Coates Cup

Romsey 4 (Fulker, Gregory, James, Cole) BHHFC 5 (Roberts, Sanger. O'Keefe 2, Pratt) (AET)

Romsey were unbeaten in 7 and Bemerton unbeaten in 11 so something had to give. A game full of errors from both sides led to most of the goals and end to end stuff for those watching the game. Manager Chalk made more changes from Saturdays game and the changes needed time to settle. Romsey started the better and within 5 mins were 2-0 up, Bemerton came back at them and made it 2-1 but Romsey must have thought they had won the game when they took a 3-1 lead. Bemerton were not finished and came back again and scored twice to give the end of the game an exciting finish. Bemerton took the lead just before full time to make it 3-4 and it should of ended there but Romsey managed to make it 4-4 right on the stroke of full time. Bemerton were the stronger in extra time and scored in the second period to win the tie and keep the unbeaten record going so now it's unbeaten in 12.

Saturday is away to Shortwood in the FA Vase

See you there

Leo

Saturday 7th November 2009 - Wiltshire Senior Cup

BHHFC 4 Downton 1 (AET)

Downton have surprised a few Wessex Premier sides this season already and a could of won this game in normal time had they taken the chances they created. Bemerton didn't get going at all and this could of been a combination of the players underestimating Downton and Chalk's decision to change six players from the last two wins, four out of five being from the defense but the players that came in, on paper at least, should of been capable of winning this game and restricting Downton a bit better than they did. In the first half Bemerton played like it was their first game of the season and looked disjointed whereas Downton took the game to Bemerton, were first to the ball everywhere and McGregor caused them all sorts of problem with his well timed runs and along with Newman at the back were the best two players for Downton all game and it was McGregor on 28mins that put Downton into the lead, a combination of a through ball by Thick and a well timed run saw McGregor slot the ball home passed the advancing Porter 0-1. Downton continued to be on top and on 34mins McGregor again got his head to a cross but wasted the chance and headed over. Bemerton's best chance of the game came right on 45mins when a cross by Jones from the left hand side found Mankin in space in the box but his well timed volley was saved at point blank range by the ever consistent Hopkins. Half time 0-1. The second half started with both sides not really doing too much but with Bemerton needing to get a goal Manager Chalk had to change things. On 55mins on came Rowe and he had an immediate impact running the midfield along with Slade, who as captain was leading by example with a high work rate, and then on 60mins a curling free kick taken by Jones deflected off the head of Cross and fell to Slade who got his reward and fired home from close range 1-1. The remaining 30 mins went without too many incidents to report apart from the last few minutes when Downton should of won the game with two good chances. Bemerton's fitness told in extrra time and they started to get on top and it only took 7mins from the re-start to take the lead when a corner by Rowe found Slade and he headed home for his second goal of the game 2-1. Bemerton now were on top and just two minutes later another set piece taken by Hughes found Pratt who turned Halski in the box and laid a well weighted ball square for Sanger to crash home from 12 yards, 3-1. The game was now over for Downton and the last goal, two minutes from time was an added bonus, a fast break from Bemerton's own box saw Rowe in space on the left and he picked out the hard working Eastham who headed home at the near post 4-1.

Next game away to in form Romsey on Tuesday

See you there

Leo

Monday 2nd November 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 4 Brockenhurst 0

Another emphatic victory for Bemerton and once again restricted a decent side to one or two half chances. Bemerton could of, and should of, won this more comfortably than they did but another win with no goals against and nine goals in two games, the team are on a hot streak. The game was won with two goals in each half and two goals each from Rowe and Mankin. Even though Bemerton should of scored earlier it took 30mins for the first goal to arrive, the ever busy Slade worked himself an opening and fired a powerful shot towards goal but it was Mankin who managed to help it on it's way into the back of the net 1-0. Right from the back Bemerton were controlling the game and using the ball to thread their way through Brockenhurst and the second goal, on 42mins, started when Brockenhurst were awarded a free kick on the edge of Bemerton's box, the shot hit the wall, then three passes and 12 secs later the ball was in the back of the net after Rowe hit a perfect shot low into the bottom corner 2-0. Half time 2-0. The second half was a mirror image of the first half with Bemerton working hard to stay on top and playing the passing game manager Chalk has installed into them. On 63mins Slade won the ball in midfield went round two players and laid it off to Rowe who once again hit a superb low left footed shot into the bottom corner 3-0. By now right from keeper Parsons to the back four of Fisher,Eves,Renyard and Roberts who were winning everything and the hard working midfield of Slade,Jones,Mankin and Rowe who were creating problems all over the pitch and with Eastham and O'Keefe up front giving the Brokenhurst back four all sorts of problems it wasn't going to be long before the next goal and it came on 69mins when a corner swung in by Rowe was cleared off the line but Mankin was first to react and tap home from close range 4-0. With O'Keefe hitting the bar and Frampton denying Eastham the scoreline could of been higher. Manager Chalk made several changes and gave new signing Porter his first taste of keeping goal for Bemerton. This time I will make a Man of the Match award and it goes to the impressive Rowe who was all over the pitch and topped it off with two great strikes.

Next game is home to Downton on Saturday

See you there

Leo

Saturday 31st October 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 5 Alton Town 0

Probably Bemerton's best display of the season so far, unbeaten in ten games and winning all of the last six they are now chasing the club's Wessex League record of seven wins on the trot. Bemerton took the game by the scruff of the neck and never let Alton settle, but to Alton's credit they never stopped trying to play football but were second best all over the pitch for all of the game. Manager Chalk made five changes from the last game and right throughout the side everyone looked confident and in control. It was four goals in seven minutes that made sure this game was won but it took until the 30th minute to finally see the ball in the net after a number of good chances going begging. Slade won the ball deep in Alton's half and found Eaves, his cross picked out Mankin who rose to score with a powerful header 1-0. Just three minutes later a fast flowing move which started with Renyard playing a long ball down the line, involved Eastham, Rowe then finally Mankin who turned provider and crossed perfectly for Eastham to head home 2-0. Straight from the re-start Bemerton forced Alton onto the back foot and Eastham again finished a good move when he turned in the box to slot home 3-0. It only took another two minutes for the next goal, keeper Parsons cleared a long ball which Eastham nodded on and found Jones, who timed his run perfectly, to pick his spot and fire home 4-0. In the final few minutes of the first half Alton cleared two more chances off the line, half time 4-0. The second half continued the same way as the first half Bemerton got on top and stayed on top giving Alton's defense an awful lot of work to do and creating more chances but failing to convert them. The final goal of he game came in the 57th minute when another flowing move saw Eastham pick up the ball on the edge of the box who then picked out O'Keefe's late run and crossed for O'Keefe to volley home. An excellent solid performance and extremely difficult to pick out an individual for Man of The Match so I'll leave it to those who watch the game to make their own minds up.

Next game is home on Monday 2nd November to Brockenhurst

See you there

Leo

Saturday 17th October 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

Lymington 1 BHHFC 2

Lymington took advantage of Bemerton's poor first half display and started the brighter of the two sides and it only took 9 mins for them to take the lead. A long ball fired into Bemerton's area took a hard bounce and fooled everyone except Nash who found himself some space and managed to tip the ball over Kauppinen and the ball found it's way into the back of the net 1-0. Lymington took heart from this advantage and for the first 30mins worked harder than Bemerton and deserved their lead. Bemerton had a penalty shout on 40 mins but apart from that neither side created any chances worth noting, half time ended 1-0. The second half saw Bemerton come back into the game and play with a bit more determination and worked much harder to keep the ball, this paid off on 59 mins when a long ball found Jones just inside the area who turned his marker and fired the ball into the bottom left corner 1-1. Two minutes later good work by Sanger saw him brought down from behind inside the box which led to Lyminton being reduced to ten men, up stepped Slade to take the penalty only to see it saved and keep Lymington in the game. Bemerton took advantage of the extra man and started to dominate the remaining 30 mins. Manager Chalk made changes to the side as Lymington were forced to defend deeper and chances for O'Keefe, who mis-timed his header, Sanger who's low shot was tipped round the post and Mankin who's header was cleared off the line saw the scoreline remain at 1-1. Lyminton nearly nicked the game late on but it was finally decide in the last minute when Mankin found himself some space on the edge of the box went round his marker and waited from the advancing keeper to commit before cooly picking his spot and slotting home the winner 1-2.

Tuesday is away to Totton & Eling in the Wessex Cup

Leo

Saturday 9th October 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

BHHFC 2 Wimborne 2

How many times have you heard the saying 'a game of two halves' well this time it could not have been more apt. Wimborne came to the ground on the back of a good 3-0 win against the previously unbeaten Poole so Bemerton had to be well prepared for this game. The first half saw Bemerton dominate and resticted Wimborne to just one half chance the whole of the first half. It took just 9 mins for Bemerton to take the lead a quick passing move which used the full width of the pitch started with Kauppinen rolling the ball out to Eaves then the move included Jones, O'Keefe and finally Lucas to cross the ball in for Slade to rise and beat both Walker and Hutchings to the ball and fire home a powerful header 1-0. Bemerton kept the pressure on and just 17 mins later it was Slade who this time turned provider and crossed for Mankin who timed his run to perfection and another header flew into the net 2-0. Bemerton continued to create and it was Mankin again who found room on the edge of the box but saw his shot just fly over the bar so at half time Bemerton should of gone in leading by more but the half finished 2-0. Wimborne are a decent side and no-one could of expected the game to continue the same as the first half and Wimborne didn't dissapoint they came out strongly in the second half and started to push Bemerton onto the back foot. They kept the pressure on and forced a good save from Kauppinen just 10 mins after the re-start then from the resulting corner Walker found some space and headed home 2-1. Bemerton were not without chances but Wimborne were on top and starting creating chances and playing the kind of football that was expected of them. It took until the 86th minute to find the equaliser, another corner saw the ball come through a crowd of players only to come up and hit someone's hand, the resulting penalty was converted by Clarke 2-2. The remaining few minutes could of gone either way Mankin had another good chance but mis-timed his volley and Clarke's powerful 25 yard shot forced Kauppinen into another good save but the game ended in a fair draw.

Next game is Farnborough away on Tues

See you there

Leo

Saturday 26th September 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

Hayling 0 BHHFC 1

On a dry bumpy surface which did not lend itself to playing a passing game and gave the home side a big advantage it was another good solid performance from Bemerton which secured the win and another 3 points to the present seasons league points tally. Bemerton tried to play a passing game and it paid off as early as the 10th minute when the move ended with Kauppinen firing just wide. Then just 2 minutes later another move which cut through the Hayling back four found Eaves firing home a low volley to score his first goal for the club and give Bemerton the lead 0-1. Bemerton then sat back and allowed Hayling to come back into the game and they could of levelled on 20 mins when they hit the outside of the woodwork this seemed to wake Bemerton up and they finished the half strongly and on 44mins Lucas knocked in an accurate cross for Slade to rise above everyone else only to see his header come back off the crossbar 30 secs later it was Slade again who found some space and this time his header found the upright not his day. Half time 0-1. The second half continued the same as the first with Bemerton continuing to create chances but just failing to find the net. On 55mins Eaves should of got his second when he timed his run to perfection and ran onto a cross but his headed effort flew over the bar then 8mins later Hughes found Eastham who drew the keeper and laid the ball into the path of Cox with an open goal at his mercy the pitch played it's part and the ball bobbled horribly and Cox watched his effort fly over the bar. Another game Bemerton should of won by more than one goal but win they did and the solid performance at the back meant Hayling didn't really look like scoring. Bemerton's new signing Puckett was watching from the sidelines and must be itching to get on the end of some of the chances being created and he is available on Tuesday so he may get his chance then.

Next game is away to Bournemouth

See you there

Leo

Tuesday 22nd September 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier League

Romsey 1 BHHFC 1

Bemerton manager Chalk must have left this game wondering how it ended in a draw as Bemerton dominated the whole of the game and Romsey offered nothing but being able to put the big boot behind the ball at every opportunity. In every game chances are missed but rarely have there been so many during one game, Bemerton, created no less than thirteen good chances to score, including a missed penalty, so the busiest man on the pitch was Romsey's keeper Hookway who pull off save after save and without him the scorline could easily of been 5 or 6-0 and Romsey would not have had any complaints. Bemerton took the lead in the first 5mins, a move that would of graced any game, quick passing one touch football ripped through Romsey and the final ball from Hughes found Mankin who hit a sweet half volley into the roof of the net 0-1, the rest of the half saw Sanger and Eastham both guilty of missing scoring opportunities and when Sanger found the net on 30mins, after timing his run to perfection and curling the ball passed Hookway, it was somehow ruled offside. Right on 45mins a rare visit into the Bemerton goalmouth saw Reed chase a bouncing ball and with his back to goal hooked it over his head in an attempt to put the ball back into the danger area, as it turned out the ball found it's way through a packed goalmouth to the back post and trickled over the line to give Romsey a shock equaliser 1-1. The second half continued to be one way traffic and Bemerton created even more chances than in the first half and apart from the normally reliable Slade missing a penalty, Mankin could quite easily of had a hat trick and even with Romsey down to 10 men for the last 15mins after Calder was sent off, Bemerton could not find the net. Bemerton left knowing this was an easy 3 points dropped and Romsey must be thankful for their good fortune and Hookway in goal.

Next game is away to Hayling

See you there

Leo

Saturday 19th September 2009 - FA Vase 1st Qualifying Rnd

BHHFC 1 Blackfield & Langley 0

A frustrating day for both sides but for different reasons and a score line which had no reflection on the game. Manager Gittens must of wondered where the side was that played on Monday as Blackfield never got going at all and never created a clear chance all game and Manager Chalk must of wondered if Bemerton were ever going to score given all the missed chances throughout the game. Blackfield fielded an unchanged side but Bemerton, through injuries and County call-ups, had to make four changes but Chalk managed to keep the shape of the side with the new players slotting in well. In the end the game was settled by a penalty on 52min when Williams was guilty of a handball and up stepped Captain Slade to slot the ball home from the spot kick. Missed chances in the first half, the easiest falling to Mankin and Eastham and a disallowed goal, meant that the half finished 0-0 when it could quite easily have been 4-0. The second half again saw chances begging and over the 90mins with two goals dis-allowed for offside and 3 other penalty claims turned down Bemerton should of won this more comfortably. In the end a 1-0 win is a win and Bemerton are in the next round facing Arlesford.

Next game is Romsey away on Tuesday night

See you there

Leo

Monday 14th September 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division

BHHFC 2 Blackfield & Langley 1

Although the first half was played at a good pace and both sides played their football, chances were few and far between with both sides working hard to keep each other at bay. For Bemerton, Eastham had the best chance with just the keeper to beat but Hawkins saved well throwing himself towards Eastham and smothering the ball and Blackfield's Williams tried his luck from distance only to see the ball fly passed the post. Half time 0-0. Talk about a game of two halves, the second half saw 3 goals in 5 minutes, first it was Williams who found himself in space and hit an unstoppable shot into the top corner from all of 25 yards 0-1. Straight from the re-start Bemerton attacked and just 1 minute later when the ball landed at Sangers feet he laid it off to Slade on the edge of the box who made no mistake and fired a low shot into the corner 1-1. Bemerton then got on top and 4 mins later a good move down the right which saw Eastham flick the ball on for Sanger who wriggled past three players and cooly picked out Cox in the box and he managed to squeeze a shot between two players which found the back of the net 2-1. Bemerton continued to stay on top and with Eastham and Sanger causing Blackfield's defense all sorts of problems should of gone further ahead. With 15 minutes to go Bemerton seemed to stop and allow Blackfield more room and time on the ball and so it was Blackfield turn to put the pressure on the solid Bemerton defense and created three good chances to score but with Kaupinnen in good form none were converted. The game ended with chances for Bemerton and it was Sanger who continued to cause them problems right to the end. Final score 2-1.

Next game Saturday 19th home to Blackfield & Langley in the FA Vase

See you there

Leo

Saturday 12th September 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division

BHHFC 2 Moneyfields 1

The good start to the season continued this week when another 3 points were secured against Moneyfields, who have consistently finished in the top six over the last few seasons, visited the ground. Bemerton started the brighter of the two sides and it only took 8 mins to take the lead. The hard working Eastham, who constantly pressurised the Moneyfields back four all game into making errors, nicked the ball from Prior and fed Jones wide on the left, his cross found Slade and he fired home with a powerful left foot shot which the keeper could not hold 1-0. It was that man Slade again on 28 mins who this time used his stronger right foot to rifle home a shot from a full 25 yards which found the bottom left corner giving the keeper no chance 2-0. More chances were created and just 3 mins later Mankin volleyed over the bar from close range. Just before half time O'Keefe, who up until then was in control in the midfield, had to leave the pitch with an injury, he was replaced by Cox in a straight swop and the half finished 2-0. Moneyfields were glad to see half time and came out a different side, they saw more of the ball but never really threatened and Bemerton had to work hard to close them down and keep the lead. On 60 mins the lead was cut, a Prior free kick found Elias who headed back across goal and found Prior unmarked to head home 2-1. On 75 mins manager Chalk made a double substitution and on came Lucas and Kauppinen for Sanger and Eaves. the game finished with both sides cancelling each other out but both trying to create chances. Overall a good solid performance and a deserved win which leaves us second in table and all of us wanting the good run to continue as long as it can.

Next game MONDAY 14th home to Blackfield & Langley

See you there

Leo

Saturday 5th Spetember 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division

Alton Town 1 BHHFC 2

Any away win is a good win and Alton's recent results have been up and down so we were not sure what to expect but in the program the Alton manager promised the Alton faithfull that the last result would not be repeated. After dropping the points against Romsey mid-week it was our turn to take the points in the last few minutes and after several missed chances throughout the game it took a mistake to finally settle the game. If I described the way the game was played by saying both sides played open football, and I mean open football, it would not be an understatement, both sides allowed each other enough time to play football and to create chances. Bemerton allowed Alton far too much space and the only time Alton's Kinteh will be picked up today will be by the taxi tonight! Overall Bemerton created enough chances to win this game comfortably but as chance after chance went by you were left wondering if we were ever going to score. Alton took the lead in the 9th minute after a long ball which swirled in the wind and fooled everyone execpt Kinteh who nipped in behind the defence to slot home the opener 1-0. It took until the 38th minute for Bemerton to equalise a goalmouth scramble saw the hard working Eastham finish the job to make it 1-1. Right on 45mins Slade caught a perfect volley only to see it rebound of the bar so the half finished 1-1. Bemerton had chances on 48mins, 50mins, 60mins & 65mins all of which either went straight at the keeper or just wide. Manager Chalk changed things round to try and find a winner and Sanger came on for Pratt and Cox came on for Mankin, Slade droppped back into midfield and Bemerton continued to create chances. Then on 88mins a long ball by Eaves picked out O'Keefe in the box his powerful header was directed downwards but straight at the keeper who couldn't hold the ball and Sanger was at hand to fire home.

Next game is Saturday 12th home to Moneyfields

See you there

Leo

Tuesday 2nd September 2009 - Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division

BHHFC 3 Romsey 3

Another game to go on the 'learning curve' list for the young side, how to win a game then get it taken away from you in the last seconds. The game started evenly enough and both sides were cancelling themselves out but it was Bemerton, who still had not played as well as they can, started to slowly get to grips with Romsey. In the 20min against the run of play Romsey took the lead, a free kick was floated to the far post to find Gregory unmarked and nod home without a challenge 0-1. Bemerton then kicked into gear and on 29mins Sanger finished a flowing move after a long ball from Slade found Jones on the wide left who in turn picked out O'Keefe in the box only to see his low shot fire against he post but Sanger was on hand to finish the move 1-1, the half finished with both sides not really creating anything to speak of and the sides went in even. Not sure what was in the tea at half time but Bemerton came out firing on all cylinders and started playing they way they did in the first few games of the season, Romsey didn't know what hit them and could handle the quick passing football being played. It only took 3 mins into the second half for Bemerton to take the lead, a through ball played at chest height saw O'Keefe skillfully use his chest to control the ball and drop it onto his left foot to volley home, the young Romsey keeper had no chance 2-1. The constant pressure continued and the shaky Romsey defense saw Calder bring down Sanger in the box, up stepped Slade to blast home the resulting penalty 3-1. From then on it was all one way traffic and two more strong penalty claims, on 63mins and 65mins, both were denied and Romsey had been let of the hook twice now. The game continued with Bemerton well on top but there was one final kick in the teeth, two late scrambled goals from Wyeth and Gregory, one on 82mins and the other on 95mins allowed Romsey to steal a point, the very late equaliser was followed by the ref's whistle seconds later. A mention must go to the Romsey keeper who kept them in the game.

Away to Alton Saturday see you there

Leo

Sunday 30th August 2009 - FA Cup

Highworth Town FC 1 BHHFC 0

Now let's be honest, we ain't going to win the FA Cup and nor are Highworth and later on in the rounds we will all see games that are won by a side that didn't really deserve it, and that's exactly what happened here, actually neither side deserved to win this game but sometimes lady luck is on your side and it certainly was for Highworth. From start to finish both sides were poor and I for one am disappointed as this was probably our worst performance so far this season and I would think the Abingdon manager at the game was rubbing his hands at the prospect of playing either side in the next round. The man of the match was Highworth's keeper, not only did he save a penalty but saved everything that was thrown at him that I think says it all. On chances throughout the game, and if they were all converted the game would have ended 3-6, but chances count for nothing and that's exactly what we got, I won't mention any names of the players guilty of missing they all know who they are and on another day they would of hit the target. In the end the game was won in the 75th minute by a bit of luck, a corner wasn't cleared and the resulting shot back in hit the bar when it rebounded the only one stood in the area was Rudd who couldn't believe his luck and tapped the ball home. We left the ground extremely disappointed and Pearson left with the biggest smile on his face! They say these things level themselves out throughout the season so we are owed big time.

Home to Romsey on Tuesday, see you there

Leo

Tuesday 18th August 2009

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 3 Christchurch 1

With Christchurch beating Wimborne in their last game we had to start brightly and play as well as we did against Winchester and we did just that. With enforced changes due to injuries and holidays, yes I said holidays, managers Chalk & Le Bout had to re-jigged the team but it only took 7mins for the first chance to be created and it was Slade who found himslef in the box but he mis-hit his shot and it was cleared off the line. The whole team continued to play good passing football at a good pace and Christchurch could not get into the game at all and then on 12mins it was 1-0, good work down the right between Metcalfe & Kauppinen saw O'Keefe send the final ball over for Jones to finish giving keeper Kearns no chance. The momentum and high pace was maintained and just 10mins later the best move of the match made it 2-0, with several players involved in a fast passing move it was the busy Kauppinen who picked up the ball, cleverly found himslef some room, and slotted a precise ball to Eastham who looked up at the advancing Kearns and cooly slotted the ball pass him into the corner. With the whole team now pinning Christchurch in their own half it wasn't long before it was 3-0. Another good passing move saw the industrious Eastham pick up the ball on the right he then fed it to Slade in the box and with the ball at his feet and a defender tight on his back but he managed to turn on a sixpence and fire the ball into the bottom left hand corner. Half time 3-0 and Christchurch were happy to hear the ref's whistle and their committee happy to come in for a bit Shirley's cake.

Second half started with Bemerton making two changes, Mankin came on for Slade and Pratt came on for Metcalfe so the side again had to be changed which meant the second half was always going to be different. To their credit Christchurch carried on playing their game and passing the ball around but Bemerton continued to make chances but on several occasions just failed to convert them. Christchurch gave Bemerton a shot in the arm on 70mins when a cross into a crowded box was headed home by Keates. The game ended with chances falling to Mankin & Eastham but ti remained 3-1.

Man of the match, well a tough one when the team are playing so well. There were several candidates, O'Keefe could well of got it against Wincheter and for his performance in this game he could of got it again, Kauppinen and Eastham both had a shout but I though Jones just shaded it one of his best performances to date. One last annoucement, Jack Slade was awarded a Gold Medal this week for being allergic to everything apart from Duck feathers well done Jack!

Saturday is away to Wimborne, see you there

Leo

Saturday 15th August 2009 FA Cup

Winchester City 1 Bemerton Heath Harlequins 4

Yet another good display by the whole team. When you win this well it is hard to pick out an individual for 'Man of the Match' but for me Paul Lucas just get the award for his dominant display winning everything that was in his way and his non-stop talking to everyone in the team. Once again the defense stood strong, the midfield created and the forwards gave the Winchester defense with plenty to think about.

The first 20mins saw Bemerton on top, then Winchester crept back into the game with midfielder Gariga running the show for them but the first 45mins finished with the best chance of the half falling to O'Keefe who just failed to lift the ball over the keeper after working a good one two with Jones. With both sides feeling each other out there were few chances for either side and so it finished 0-0.

The second half could not have started more brighter, within a minute the busy Kappinen found the net with a firm header after Cox had sent a precise cross over 0-1, then 5mins later Slade pounced on a poor backpass and curled his shot round the keeper only to see it rebound of the post, but like all good strikers Eastham was at hand to pick up any chances and fired home 0-2. Now Bemerton were really on top and Winchester, apart from Gariga and Rowe, were struggling to keep up with the pace and the against the run of play, on 70mins, Puckell fired an unstoppable shot from all of 25 yards into the top corner giving keeper Kappinen no chance 1-2. This seemed to give Bemerton a shot in the arm and 5mins later Jones was brought down by a very late challenge, the free kick taken by Slade made the keeper make a full length save to tip round the post. The resulting corner led to an penalty which Slade duly dispatched with some ease. For the rest of the game Bemerton kept creating chances and constantly put the Winchester defense under pressure, the last goal came on 82mins when Jones knocked a precise ball across to find Sanger who took one touch, looked up and fired a pin point shot into the far corner. Good to see both Sanger and Roberts back in the squad and both coming on to influence the game.

Tuesday see us entertain Christchurch which will be another stiff test for the lads.

See you there

Leo

Hayling Hoodoo laid to rest

Tuesday 11th August 2009

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 2 Hayling 1

The good start to the season continued on Tuesday when Hayling visited and the young Bemerton team notched another win to start the season with two wins out of two. Hayling came to the ground after beating Hamworthy in their opening home game and they are always a side who give a good account of themselves.

Hayling started the stronger and their workrate along with the way they passed the ball was impressive and the lads had a job on their hands to contain them, but contain them they did and gradually got into the game. It was one of those decisions that could of been given either way that got Hayling into the lead, the ref saw something and awarded a penalty, up stepped Lass and his well struck shot only just trickled over the line after Kauppinen guessed right and got a hand to it. After getting back into the game and then finding yourself 0-1 down you can react two ways and the lads reacted in the correct way by accepting the decision and believing in themselves to be able to get back into the game. It only took 5mins after the penalty when a long throw found Slade in the box who turned sharply only to see his shot go wide. Then on 33mins a free kick found O'Keefe who fired a header against the post, 9mins later Kauppinen launched a long throw from his own box to his brother out on the right wing, Kauppinen found Slade who turned his defender and shot just wide again. Half time 0-1.

The second half saw Bemerton start the brighter of the two teams and on 55mins the assistant awarded a penalty to Bemerton, this saw Hayling strongly contest the decision so when Cox finally got to take the penalty he had plenty to time to think about it but up he stepped and fired a perfect penalty into the corner 1-1. Bemerton then got on top and with Cox spreading the ball around chances were created at regular intervals. On 60mins O'Keefe found himself running onto a through ball, with the Hayling keeper coming out fast he tried to just flick the ball past the keeper but a deflection saw the ball come out to Jones who fired it straight back at the keeper, then on 64mins it was O'Keefe again who this time just headed over the bar. The winning goal came in the 82min, Pratt who had not been on the field long after replacing Slade, chased everything and when Taylor's backpass was miss hit it was Pratt who pounced and challanged the keeper, this time the ball broke loose and Jones was on hand to fire home into an empty net. All in all a great result especially after going behind. It showed the resolve of the team to pull up their socks keep their composure and get on with it, the whole team work for each other and got their reward.

Saturday we have a very tough away fixture away to Winchester in the FA Cup which will be a good test for the young Bemerton side.

See you there

Leo

Saturday 8th August 2009

Brockenhurst FC v Bemerton Heath Harlequins

What a good start to the season, a win away at one of the clubs who expect to be in the top six this season. A single goal from Kane O'Keefe, which was a well taken low volley after he had hit the post with his first effort, settled the match. Both sides had chances but it was Bemerton who created the most, they hit the post twice before scoring and had a penalty claim turned down, so all in all could of won by more. Brockenhurst, who are always a difficult side to break down, also had their forwards kept under control by a well marshalled Bemerton defense and were limited to one good effort which went wide of the post.

The Bemerton side, who were all under 21 except for two players, kept the momentum going from the pre-season games and seemed to gel well, although it didn't start too well when Fisher had to leave the field in the first 10 minutes with a hamstring injury so let's hope it's not too long before he's back. Right from the front with the ball being held up well by Easton and supported by the busy Slade, through to the midfield with O'Keefe & Cocker spreading the ball about to the defense marshalled by Lucas and 'man of the match' Dan Metcalfe, the whole side looked well balanced and worked hard for each other. Towards the end a few looked a little tired so Hughes was introduced to buck things up and he did just that causing Brockenhurst problems from the minute he came on until the final whistle. Brockenhurst tried several subs and tried to change things but Bemerton stood firm and dealt with everything thrown at them.

Tuesday sees the visit of Hayling who seem to be our bogey side so let's hope we can put that to bed.

See you there

Leo

Next games -

Wessex - Saturday 11th October - Away to VTFC (Lge)

Combination -Saturday 11th October - Home to Lymington Town Res (Lge)