U16s History (cont)

 – Pre-season Friendly - Rangers U16 2 . 2 Hednesford Town U16

Rangers fielded 8 trialists in this game and the first skirmishes were equal with both sides showing early season rustiness. Hednesford played some neat passing football and were rewarded with well taken goal from inside of the 18yds box by Stafford player Jack Milgate. On the half hour Milgate tucked away a second after a defensive mistake.

The second half saw Rangers start quickly and a strong surge and shot by Charlie Jones reduced the deficit. Rangers continued to take control and 15 mins later Aiden Forrester was brought down and he converted the penalty. Hednesford had several chances and Keeper Josh Elmore was outstanding, pulling off three one on one saves.

 

23rd July – Pre-season Friendly - Man Utd SS 0 . 5 Rangers U16

This traditional opener for the pre-season friendlies was a competitive game with a Rangers side with 6 new trialists on show. In the first 15 mins Man Utd were difficult to break down and played some technical football to admire. They had several half chances and were unlucky not to open the scoring. Rangers were getting used to new players and a new system of play and the work rate started to open up united. Against the run of play, trialist striker Dan Leone bagged the first of a pair on 21 mins. A few minutes later a second, new player (on show for the first time) Sam Humphries netted a well worked goal. A min later Leaone struck for his second.

United reacted well and challenged for every ball. In the second half Rangers had several chances go begging. On 45 mins another trialist Marcus Roper shot and a deflection made it 4 . 0. A fith goal by Joe Gale on the hour sealed the game. A good workout early in the season

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4th May 2008 Lichfield League Cup –

 Bustleholme 3 . 2 Rangers U15

This league cup final was played at a great pace. The opening moves were created by Bustleholme and on 6 mins a defensive mistake led to the first goal. The same resulted from a second slip up. Both these were created by the pressurising of Bustleholme. Ranges started to get back in the game and excellent closing down by MOM Mike Tinkler on 20 mins led to a corner and a Joe Williams headed goal. Two mins later Tinkler headed home to square the match. Rangers were now attacking in fine style and had Bustleholme on the rack. Bustleholme countered got a corner and from the edge of the box volleyed home a third just before half time.

The second half saw a pretty even match with Rangers Clearing off the line once and several goalmouth scrambles in the Bustleholme penalty area. Rangers were denied a good penalty shout and several chances later were defeated by time. A wonderful game of attacking football by both teams, a pleasure to watch.

29th April 2008 Lichfield League –

Sutton Coldfield Town 1 . 7 Rangers U15

Rangers clinched the league title in terrible conditions of driving rain and wind with a consummate team performance. Rangers were into their stride from the off with slick passing and the chances were coming aplenty. After several half chances Joe Gale crossed for MOM Ellis to head home. A few mins later Gale was once again the provider for Ellis to slot home. Just before half time the impressive Josh Saunders who was creating many chances slid in Mike Tinkler to convert. Ellis’s Hat-trick came immediately after the restart. A free kick saw the hard working Aiden Forrester head home a perfectly flighted Saunders chip. After a breakaway goal Ellis returned the favour and put Gale in who netted with a good strike. Max Hartland rose and headed onto the cross bar before Tinkler slid in Saunders who rounded the keeper for a well deserved goal.

27th April 2008 Lichfield League –

Building Futures 4 . 2 Rangers U15

  A depleted Rangers side suffered their first defeat of the season in this top of the table clash. Rangers were put under constant pressure in the first 20 mins and excellent defending by Joe Williams and Jordan Fincher helped to stem the tide. On 24min a defensive mistake led to the Futures opening goal. Five mins later they doubled their tally with another fine move. Just before Half time a ball broke from a Futures corner and a thundered volley bulged the net. A few mins later Rangers were denied the first of two goals for offside which were very debatable to go in to half time three down.

  Within 10 mins of the restart Rangers had 5 offside decisions given against them and were toiling to get hold of the game. Several chances went begging for Rangers before Aiden Forrester fed Mike Tinkler who struck across the goalkeeper to score. Five mins after, and with constant attacking a swift counter by Futures and defensive mistake led to another rocket volley from Futures to go three up again. Rangers came back again and Tinkler netted his second. Rangers were now attacking at will but the many half chances they had were to no avail.

 

23rd April 2008 Lichfield League –

 Norton Canes 2 . 3 Rangers U15

This was an engrossing match played at a good pace. Both sides were committed and Rangers conceded an early goal after 5 mins. A period of good play ensued from both sides with Rangers failing to convert several chances. On 20 min MOM Mike Tinkler struck the reply. On the half hour Josh Saunders played a long ball over the top and Mike Tinkler controlled and lifted the ball over an advancing keeper.

Half time was a time to reflect and Rangers started to open up the Norton defence at will. Josh Saunders and Joe Williams producing the creation and Ben Mattinson shoring up the defensive side. Joe Gale broke after a few minutes and crossed for Joe Williams to convert.. Dan Bowen was leading well from the back and Captain Saunders was becoming influential. On the hour Norton broke against the run of play and netted for a 3 . 2 deficit. They pressurised the Rangers defence but Heath-Allen Stacey and Hartland were resolute, with the impressive Bowen clearing a goal line scramble minutes from the end.

Rangers top the league by 2 pts with the season decider against second place Building Futures away on Sunday.

16th April 2008 Lichfield League –

FC Premier A 0 . 7 Rangers U15

This midweek league fixture saw Rangers top their league and return to their free flowing attacking style. From the off they commanded all areas of the pitch with the front two Tinkler and Ellis closing down well. On 12 minutes an excellent one touch passing move by 5 members of the team saw Forrester slide rule pass to Ellis who squared for Tinkler to side foot home. Tinkler then provided for Forrester to slot home 5 mins later. The only attack FC had resulted in a fantastic, double header goal line clearance by MOM Stacey who was imperious at right back. On the half hour Saunders broke free and rifled home a third before Stacey assisted Forrester to bag the first of a pair.

The second half saw FC in determined mood and Rangers played some neat one touch football to repel the sustained attack. On 70 min Tinkler went on a nice run in the area and converted for his Hat-trick. Ellis then produced a solo effort shortly after. The goal of the game came form a deep Forrester switch ball to Gale who headed across the goalkeeper.

A pleasing, passing game rewarded by individually commanding and a team dominant performance

 13th April 2008 Lichfield League –

 Rangers U15 3 . 2 Brereton

Rangers U15’s moved to the top of the Lichfield league in this hard fought battle against a spirited Brereton side. The Goalkeeper Pierce was injured in the warm up and Hartland played in goal. They got into their stride early and on 5 minutes a well worked goal was netted by Forrester. On 16 mins Brereton converted a penalty to go in at half time level.

The game was been fought out in midfield and became scrappy. On 50 minutes Brereton worked a well deserved goal and were value for it. Their tails were up and Rangers were struggling to cope. Rangers had 2 injured players and no subs and were forced into making tactical changes to cover the back four. MOM Tinkler was working the ball well up front and creating danger. Half chances fell for Saunders, Stacey, Ellis, Gale and Forrester before the Latter bagged a pair from a defensive clearance. Rangers were now pushing for the win and nearly got caught out. Five min from the end the increasingly influential Saunders ballooned the net from 18 yds to secure the victory and move the team to top of the table.

 

6th April 2008 Lichfield League –

 Rangers U15 1 . 1 Beacon Colts

Rangers produced and under-par performance and struggled to find continuity all the game. On 5 mins Beacon crossed and Rangers unfortunately put in an OG. Beacon were inspired by this and gave a good performance closing the ball down without threatening the goal again. Just before Half time an Ellis header was cleared off the line.

  After half time tactical changes started paying dividends and the attacks started to come quickly. Only the final ball was missing. Attempts were restricted to long range and frustration was taking hold. On 70mins a mis-clearance from Beacon defence allowed Ellis to side foot home. Attacks were now increased and several attempts were close by MOM Heath-Allen, Saunders and Tinkler. Beacon also had 2 attempts narrowly missed.

30th March 2008 Challenge Cup Semi Final –

 Building Futures 3 . 11 Rangers U15

Rangers inflicted a heavy defeat on the league leaders in this semi-final of the league cup. From the off Rangers wanted the ball more and condensed play well. On the break Rangers attacked wide and on 7 Minutes Forrester opened the score with a well worked goal. He repeated this 3 mins later with Captain Gale making it 3 after 20mins. A lapse in defence allowed one back for Futures But Ellis scored the first of his 4 goals on the half hour.

Straight after half time a superb cross by Gale was met by Ellis with a bullet header. The same combination produced another 10 min later before Futures scored a second on the break. Ellis scored his hat-trick with a simple pass from MOM Mattinson. Goals were now aplenty and Saunders scored a thunderbolt followed by Ellis’s fourth. Nation switched play and in one move Gale rounded his man and slotted. Tinkler and Heath-Allen bagged one a piece with the latter striking hard and low from a wide position. The final is 4th May against Premier opposition Bustleholme.

 

9th March 2008 Challenge Cup Quarter Final –

 Chase Stags 0 . 2 Rangers

With a depleted squad Rangers overcame Premier opposition for the second time to progress to the semi-final of the league cup. In stormy weather Rangers were up against a physical Chase Stag team who were first to the ball from the off. MOM Williams led by example and superb performances from the back four held things in the first half. Rangers had several clear attacking chances with Tinkler, Gale and Nation firing wide.

  At the start of the second half Rangers started to pass the ball with more intent and a crossfield switch by Saunders was flicked on by Gale to Nation who outpaced the defender and rounded the keeper for a well worked goal. That settled Rangers and several chances went begging. On the hour Forrester fed Tinkler who also rounded the keeper to make it two. An excellent game between two committed sides.

24th Feb 2008 Challenge Cup Group –

  Rangers U15 3 . 1 Erdington Star FC

From the start Rangers attacked at will having several One on Ones. On 15mins one attack was countered by Erdington Pierce saved a snap shot but the follow up was tapped in. The team continued to press ahead and were rewarded on the stroke of half time as Ellis tucked away his first with aplomb. Many chances went begging and on the hour Ellis burst through from midfield struck a rasping shot and the keeper spilled it and Ellis put the rebound in. Ten min later a surging Williams slotted a precision pass for Gale to forge into the box and rifle home the third. A hard fought win.

17th Feb 2008 Challenge Cup Group –

 Rangers U15 5 . 0 Erdington Star Woodlands

 Rangers started brightly and played some of their best football of the season. Several chances went begging before on the half hour Tinkler was fed by Nation and rounded of the move with a fine goal. Five minutes later Nation drifted past two players and fired home from 20yds.

  Straight after half time Forrester was put in by Saunders and finished with aplomb. On the hour MOM Heath-Allen supplied Forrester who bagged his second. With five minutes to go Pierce pulled off a spectacular save. Gale foraged down the left and cut in to beat 3 players and fire home to make it five with no reply.

10th Feb 2008 Lichfield League –

 Beacon Colts 0 . 3 Rangers U15

A hard Fought battle for the second spot in the league saw Rangers come out on top. It was an under par performance on a poor playing surface which disrupted both teams passing game. In the first minutes Nation hit the post with a long range effort and Tinkler was inches wide with two attempts. Just before the interval Nation found space outside the box and rifled home a low shot.

The second half started as the first and there were many attempts to put players through which floundered on the poor surface. With 20 minutes to go and 3 substitutions to freshen up the attack Rangers finally moved into gear and attacked at will. Lots of attempts went close before a blocked shot by Ellis was put in the net for an OG. Two minutes later Tinkler took his goal with aplomb. A difficult game in exacting conditions saw Rangers climb to second with 2 games in hand and only 1 conceded goal all season.

3rd Feb 2008 Lichfield League –

Brereton 0 . 12 Rangers U15

Rangers dominated this game from the start. MOM Ellis slotting from a Tinkler shot and keeper parry. Two mins later Gold award winner Saunders put a cushioned header away. Excellent attacking play all over the pitch allowed Ellis and Saunders to convert two more each. Tinkler and Nation bagged a pair whilst Gale and Forrester netted one each. By far the best, team performance of the season which resulted in a well deserved win.

27th Jan 2008 Challenge Cup Group Stage –

 Erdington Star 1 . 2 Rangers U15

Rangers started brightly and went on the attack from the start. Several half chances by Nation and Tinkler went begging before a good move involving several players allowed Forrester space to rifle home a low drive. Five minutes later the attacks were again rewarded when the excellent Saunders volleyed from a deep position and Williams rose to head in the second.

The second half was a much harder battle with Erdington upping the pace. Rangers had to dig deep and were led by MOM Fincher at the back. Erdington scored from a poor clearance and then the game became stretched. Rangers had a clear penalty denied and missed several one on ones. A good game of end to end football

20th Jan 2008 Challenge Cup Group Stage –

 Great Barr 3 . 1 Rangers U15

This was a hard fought battle in wet and muddy conditions. Great Barr started the brighter and didn’t let Rangers have time on the ball. A goal kick on 10mins was too low and intercepted to allow Great Barr to go 1 up. Ten mins later a speculative shot slipped past the Rangers keeper to make two. Rangers responded and a free kick was met in the area By Tinkler who headed home. The cleaner chances were now coming Rangers way. On 25 Mins Nation rounded the keeper in a tight angle and his shot was inches wide. A well worked move down the left from Saunders saw Ellis cross and Forrester struck the crossbar.

In the second half Rangers became more influential but could not finish. On 80mins Great Barr struck from outside the area into the top corner to win the game.

13th Jan 2008

  Rangers U15 24 . 0 FC Premier B

This was the teams’ first league game in 9 weeks due to postponements. Rangers took immediate

Control with Ellis scoring the first of his 4 goals in the first min. Steadily Rangers scored throughout the game with Tinkler scoring 8, Nation 7, Gale 4 and Forrester 1. The MOM Forrester had 7 assists in the game. A good preparation for next weeks pivotal cup game against Great Barr.

16th December 2007 Challenge Cup –

 Erdington Star FC 4 . 8 Rangers U15

Rangers steadily took control early and several chances went begging. Saunders broke through and his effort drifted wide. On the half hour Tinkler found space and slotted home the opener. A min later Rangers were slow to close down a superb volley levelled the score. Tinkler unlocked the defence again and tapped in for 2.1. Erdington again went down the other end and a superb save by Pierce kept them ahead. On the stroke of half time Rangers were beaten again

The second half started with a penalty for Erdington and Rangers had to defend stoutly. The Rangers midfield then got a hold of the game and fine attacking play saw Tinkler put through by Ellis and he slotted home. Saunders put Tinkler through and he converted his own resultant penalty. Rangers were now attacking down the flanks at will and a corner saw Captain Bowen tap in. A long range shot from Nation crept in and after conceding a counter attack goal Tinkler scored a superb lob. Nation rounded off with a superb goal

9th December 2007 Challenge Cup –

 Rangers U15 0 - 0 Great Barr Olympic

An entertaining match from both sides who where evenly matched. Rangers struggled in the early stages to keep possession and the very physical Great Barr were finding success down the right. They went close with one shot at the end of first half but an acrobatic save by MOM keeper Mike Pierce kept Rangers in the game.

In the second half an early chance produced a double save from Pierce. Rangers took hold of the game and created several chances with Joe Gales 1 on 1 just inches wide. On 80 minutes a cross was met by an athletic overhead shot by Tinkler and a reaction save from the keeper kept it even. A great cup competition run on a league basis.

25th November 2007

Rangers U15 6 - 1 Sutton Coldfield Town

Rangers started with vigour and took hold of the game from the first minute. In the third minute good pressure resulted in Mike Tinkler slotting home the opener.. Tinkler repeated this 2 minutes later with Gayle, Ellis, Tinkler and Sauders all going close thereafter. A defensive mix up allowed Sutton a goal after 15 minutes but one minute later Tinkler missed his hat-trick with an offside decision. Immediately Rangers went back up the right and Captain Joe Gayle cut in, drove into the box and fired home. Just before half time Gayle crossed and Tinkler completed his Hat-trick.

Immediately after half time Gayle crossed and Ellis put away the fifth. Sutton then came into the game and several chances cleared by the excellent Cope, Stacey and Fincher. On the hour a Gayle corner saw the influential Saunders rise and despatch a neat header. The MOM Tinkler then had a couple of further chances before the close

11th November 2007– Lichfield Challenge Cup –

  Rangers U15 4 . 2 Sutton Utd

  This was a good test for Rangers coming off a heavy defeat in the county Cup. From the start Rangers out fought and out paced a skilful Sutton side who are a division above. Rangers performed in every position and in particular Captain for the day Josh Saunders pulled the stings in midfield. On six minutes a clever pass from Saunders saw a sublime flick from Joe Gale find Mike Tinkler to bag his first. Surging forward, new player Max Bickerton fired home form 20yds

  The second half saw Rangers come under pressure early and on 50 mins a mis-cleared header saw Sutton pull one back. Sutton piled on the pressure and resolute defending held things together. On 70 mins Saunders fed Aiden Forrester who slid in Tinkler to score his second. MOM Tinkler closed down the right Back on 80 minutes and the re-bound found Dom Nation who powered home the fourth goal. Five minutes later Sutton midfielder pounced on a weak clearance and thundered home their second. Rangers then dominated play to the end with Nation, Ellis and Gale going close

 

4th November 2007- Cup match

Chasetown U’15’s7 – 1 Stafford Rangers Juniors U’15’s

Rangers faced a very impressive Chasetown side who worked the Rangers backline all afternoon and showed clinical finishing.

Poor defending and cheap free kicks led to Chasetown taking a 4-0 lead before Whiteside got Rangers off the mark with a well placed header. The second half had the same theme with Chasetown capitalising on more poor defending and individual errors. The introduction of Jack Taylor in the second half prevented the score going into double figures with some sublime saves as Chasetown piled on the pressure.

Jordan Whiteside picked up MOM with his performance, competing for every ball and covering what seemed like every blade of grass on the field. Tinkler, Forrester, Saunders and Heath-Allen receiving special mention for their fantastic attitudes and tireless work rate shown throughout every minute of the game but were unable to prevent Chasetown running out deserved 7-1 winners.

21st October 2007– Lichfield League Friendly –

Sutton Utd 0 . 1 Rangers U15

This was an encounter between top of Division Two Rangers and Division One Sutton. Rangers came out on top of an exciting encounter. Rangers started brightly and were probing constantly. Near misses by Mike Tinkler and some long range shots were the only chances in a tight first 20. The MOM Auden Heath-Allen led well from an unaccustomed centre back position and On 26 mins Dom Nation rounded the left back and a hard drive across the goal saw Tinkler side foot home. Towards the end of the half Sutton started to force their way back into the game, and also went close with long range efforts.

Rangers drove forward at the start of the second half and had numerous chances that remained unconverted. On the whistle Sutton struck a long range effort and Jake Stacey cleared off the line. Excellent, all round performances from Aiden Forrester and Josh Saunders in the middle helped Rangers to their most important victory of the season.

 

14th October 2007– Lichfield League

 Rangers U15 2 . 0 FC Premier A

A depleted Rangers started slowly in this Lichfield League encounter and had to dig deep to resist a fluently attacking side. Good battles all round the team meant that Rangers slowly started to get back into the game. Goalkeeper Mike Pierce made a series of important stops and in particular on 15Mins from a deflected shot. Five mins later a good attacking move saw Mike Tinkler round his man and go 1 on 1 with the keeper to slot against the run of play.

The second half saw Rangers take command and start to dominate open play, several chances went begging as the Premier Keeper was in outstanding form. On 70 mins Tinkler was fed by MOM Forrester and again put away the second to wrap up the game

30th September 2007– Lichfield League

Rangers U15 8 . 0 Norton Canes

Rangers came out firing in this league encounter and took control early. Several chances went begging and after 10 minutes Josh Saunders converted a Joe Gale cross. Another Gale cross saw Saunders volley home to give a half time lead. Norton missed a penalty after the re-start and two minutes later Taylor Ellis ran onto a Mike Tinkler through ball and made it three. Tinkler then burst through and converted himself. A good throw by Aiden Forrester on the right saw a cross converted by the rampaging Joe Williams. Mike Tinkler added a second from a reverse ball by Ellis. MOM Jordan Fincher shored up the defence when they reverted to a 3 and made several crucial stops. Tinkler then hit the post and Ellis reacted and crossed into the box for Dom Nation to bulge the net. On 80 mins Auden Heath-Allen crossed for Ellis to bag a pair

16th September 2007– Lichfield League

 Rangers U15 6 . 0 Building Futures

Top of the table Rangers were up against a fluent attacking Futures team. Excellent defending from Jordan Fincher, Dan Bowen, Jaspar Powell and Max Hartland kept their attacks to long range efforts. On 10 mins Mike Pierce came out bravely and took a shot in the face. He retired concussed and Jordan Whiteside substituted in goals. Ten man Rangers started to get a foothold and went close with 3 efforts on the counter. Whiteside pulled off save after save.

In the second half Rangers lined up in a different formation and quickly moved into their attacking mode and put Futures under constant pressure. Five mins in Josh Saunders fed Joe Gale who lifted the ball over the advancing keeper. Dom Nation then fed Taylor Ellis who crossed for Gale to side foot home. Ellis rose and headed in 5 mins later, and converted a bustling run and shot by Gale shortly after. On 70 mins Joe Gale was fed a diagonal ball and he swept the ball in for his hat trick. A few mins later Man of the Match Josh Saunders fed Ellis who was brought down in the area, and he converted for his hat trick.

9th September 2007– LICHFIELD LEAGUE

Rangers U15 14 . 0 FC Premier B

An emphatic victory for the Rangers U15 side was the result in this one sided, first outing in the Lichfield League. Rangers dominated from the off and didn’t let the pace drop all game. The new combination of Joe Gale and Taylor Ellis up front worked well with Gale scoring 5 and Ellis 6. With seven on the board at half time Rangers strove for more in the second and Josh Saunders, Auden Heath-Allen and Max Hartland added further goals. Man of the match Jordan Whiteside had an excellent midfield game as did Josh Saunders. Keeper Mike Pierce had little to do but came off his line on 47 min and snaffled a 1-ON -1 at the feet of the striker to keep a clean sheet. The U15s are looking for a couple of select players this season, training Tuesday and Thursday nights at St Leonard’s Primary school pitch 6.30-8pm. Ring Dan on 07875484286

2nd September – Pre-season Friendly – Rangers U15 9 . 0 Great Wyrley Panthers

This was Rangers 3rd friendly in the build up to the tough Lichfield League season. A wonderful display of committed, attacking football, much developed by the coaching staff in the closed season.

Rangers pressurised from the start and due to the close season training were able to keep this up throughout the game. Chances went begging from the start for Gale, Nation C and Nation D. The new defensive partnership of Ellis and Fincher were supported by excellent performances from Powell and Whiteside. On 14 minutes Gale cut back from the left and Williams picked up the ball and a drive from the edge of the box found the net. Two mins later Nation C tapped in from a Williams cross. Further chances fell for the team but none converted.

Second halve dominance continues and 2 mins after the re-start Ellis was brought down in the box for Nation D to convert. Gale then rounded the defence and crossed for Nation C to convert. Whiteside volleyed on 50mins to see this deflected for an OG. Ellis then rounded his man and slotted into the corner. Another sweeping move with one touch football from Nation D, Gale saw Whiteside arrive late into the box and convert from 10yds. A cross from MOM Gale again found the head of Williams who bagged his pair. Finally Gale once again crossed for Nation C to complete his Hat Trick.

25th May 2007     Blackpool Cup Semi Final

  Albion Rovers (Aberdeen) 1 . 0 Stafford Rangers U14

Rangers U14 progressed, as group runners up on goal difference, to the semi final on their football tour to Blackpool. Having won 5, drawn 1 and lost 1 the tally was enough to secure 2nd spot.

The match was a tough encounter with each side unable to break through. Rangers had the clearest chances with Nation going close with a long range effort and Smith with a cross cum shot just missing. With 2 Mins to go a shocking penalty decision, derided by all who saw it, was given and although Stark got a hand to it he was unable to keep it out. Rangers are running Trials for new player in the 07/08 season on 30/31 May at St Leonard’s School field 7-8.30pm and Sat 2nd June 11-1pm. All welcome ring Dan Richardson 07875 484286 or Rich on 07973801906

Season stats

League 5th (from 13)

Goals for 91

Against 54

Diff +37

South staffs cup – Last 16 lost 5.1 – Wythymore colts (Walsall league)

League Cup – Semi lost 7.1 - Audley

League Sheild – Semi lost 1.0 - Brocton

Stafford Severns – Finalist lost 2.1 Leek town

Blackpool Cup (tour) – Semis lost 1.0 – Albion Town (Aberdeen league)

Winning sequences 3x 4wins

Losing 2x2

Draws 2x1

25th March 2007

Stafford Rangers JFC 8 - 1 Stones Dominoes

A powerful first half display of attacking football, particularly from right midfield’s Gale and Heath-Allen, laid the foundation for this deserved league victory. After early chances were squandered, Ellis converted thanks to a well weighted through pass from Stacey. Several unsuccessful attacks later, Gale fed a neat ball to Nation and he rifled one past the impressive keeper.

The second half display lacked the fluidity of the first but Rangers were more clinical in front of goal. Immediately after the break Ellis met a cross to head in his second. The move of the game started in midfield with quick one touch football from Fincher, Stacey and Simms. Gale fed Smith who’s long range effort struck the crossbar. Ellis shot from wide and the parried shot fell to Gale who converted. Gale then shot and scored from close range. On the hour a powerful volley was again parried and Smith followed up for a goal. Rangers conceded a free kick and the resultant cross hit the woodwork and returned for Dominoes to snatch a goal. The reply was immediate with another great strike from Gale to complete his hat-trick. The MOM went to Stacey who finished off the scoring with a deserved goal.

11th March 2007

Stafford Rangers JFC 6 - 0 Stafford Junior Colts

Rangers took maximum points in this league encounter. They gained a hold of the game early on but several chances went begging in the opening period. A corner was swung in and blocked on the line but Bowen struck a sweet half volley to put Rangers ahead. Ellis cut back a pass on the right for Simms to shoot and Fincher mopped up the ball on the far post for a second. On the half hour Ellis again cut back and shot and squeezed the ball through a tight defence. After the interval, Rangers upped the pace. Nation went close with several shots and deserved his MOM award. Nation fed Smith who bagged his first by chasing a lost cause in the box and fired in from wide on the right. Next, a poor clearance allowed Smith to strike a fine volley into the net for his second. Finally a defensive header came to Gale and he volleyed into the net to make it six.

4th March 2007

Stafford Rangers JFC 1 : 0 Rugeley Rangers XI (League Shield)

 

Rangers Through to Second Semi Final

Stafford Rangers U14 moved into their second semi-final with a last minute goal in extra time in the League Shield encounter. It was a pulsating game between two committed teams in poor weather conditions. Early exchanges were played out in midfield with Nation and Whiteside excelling. Superb defending by Williams and Meddings restricted Rugeley to a couple of long range efforts while Smith and Ellis led the line well. Stafford became more dangerous as the half advanced and on 20 minutes Gale volleyed to test the excellent Rugeley keeper. A minute later a good counter-attack on the left saw a Fincher shot blocked, the re-bound allowing Ellis to strike but a block by the defender deflected the ball over. Gale again had a shot cleared off the line and Nation struck a 25 yard screamer onto the bar. Rugeley had a succession of corners at the end of the half and Heath-Allen, Ellis, Stacey and MOM Williams cleared manfully. Further Stafford counter attacks resulted in Nation crossing for both Ellis and Smith to spurn chances. As the weather worsened, Rugeley had the Rangers defence back pedalling but Bowen and Williams resisted well. Nation then rounded the right of defence but shot wide. Two minutes later Gale chested down a cross and volleyed wide.

18th February 2007

 Stafford Rangers JFC 6 : 3 Rugeley Rangers

A really competitive encounter saw Rangers complete the double over Rugeley. Both sides played excellent football in the early stages with no real opportunities in front of goal. On 20 minutes Ellis was put through by a good interplay from Simms, Gale and Smith and he lobbed the keeper. Five minutes later Rangers striker Smith shot when 1 on 1 to scrape the goal. Further half chances were snuffed out by a resilient Rangers defence. On the stroke of half time a Rugeley corner saw a crowded area and an OG levelled the scores. Rangers had a chance with the last kick of the half with Gale just shooting high.

Rugeley dominated the first 5 minutes after half time and wanted it more. A good move down the right breached the Rangers defence and a cross saw them go 2.1 up. Rangers battled away the grafting Simms made an exquisite chip to put Ellis in for his second. Rangers were now taking possession more and 2 minutes later Nation drove into the box and his powerful shot was parried to Gale who shot and the keeper again saved, Gale got the rebound and rounded the keeper to slot home. Rugeley again pressed and the excellent Williams held steady fully deserving his MOM award. On the hour Nation struck a superb free kick to put Rangers 4.2 up. A couple of minutes later Whiteside won a crucial ball from the ever pressing Rugeley midfielders and fed Gale who put Simms in on goal, the excellent Rugeley keeper stayed big and saved but the ball dropped for Smith to slot home.

Rugeley then pressed even harder and got their just reward with a nice move on the right and a volleyed goal from the edge of the box. In the last minute of the game while Rugeley were pressing Nation dribbled into the area and finished well.

28th January 2007

Stafford Rangers JFC 3 – 2 Berkswich FC

A solid team performance gave Rangers victory over a dogged Berkswich team. Early pressure led to crosses from Fincher and Whiteside being cleared and snap attempts from Gale, Smith and Fincher were wide of the mark. After 10 minutes of excellent football, Berkswich broke and a defensive lapse saw their new signing up front tuck away the chance. Rangers regained control of the game and neat work in midfield by Meddings, Simms and Nation saw chance after chance go unconverted. On 20 minutes Smith rounded his man and levelled the scores. Soon after Nation drove to the edge of the box and release a powerful shot that the keeper failed to deal with and Smith nipped in for his second. The second half settled a little but Rangers kept control until the dangerous Berkswich striker was fed a great pass that was converted with a first time shot. Nation then went on a mazy run on the edge of the box and crossed for Smith to tuck away a left footed volley for his hat-trick. Reward for both Nation and particularly Smith who was a presence all match and deserved his MOM award. A great acrobatic save by Pierce ensured Rangers got the three points against a dangerous Berkswich side.

Rangers are looking to bring in some new U14 players to bolster their squad due to injuries. If you are interested in joining Rangers please ring Dan on 07875484286

14th January 2007

Stafford Rangers JFC 3 - 0 Stafford Soccer School

Rangers thoroughly deserved this victory, to move into the semi-finals. Powerful performances all over the pitch helped to reverse the league defeat earlier in the season. Determined defending from Bowen, Williams, Powell and Stacey were the basis of the good start as was the neat passing in midfield from Meddings and Simms. Early chances fell to Smith (2), Ellis (cleared header), Nation and Gale (2). Rangers used the flanks well and clever interplay in the midfield area led to several dangerous crosses being cleared. Goalkeeper Pierce saved from the one School attack while defending a ‘one on one’. The first half ended without the deserved reward. In the second half Rangers did not drop the tempo and gained reward immediately when Ellis again rounded his man wide left, cut back and crossed for Smith to volley into the net. More physical and dominant play saw chances missed but creation of chances continued via Simms, Meddings and Whiteside. Gale and Ellis were becoming more influential down the channels and after 45 minutes Whiteside broke through from a reverse Simms pass and fired from wide. Man of the match Ellis followed up to tap in the rebound. Gaps were now coming apace and Simms, Whiteside, Nation and Smith were producing excellent attacks. On 63 minutes Nation came inside from a left sided passing move and drove to the edge of the box, struck a powerful drive which ballooned the net.

17th December 2006

Stone Dominoes 0 - 4 Stafford Rangers JFC

Rangers took early control in their last match before Christmas. Quick interplay in midfield between Meddings and Burke saw the latter thread a well weighted ball through for Smith to pounce and drill the ball home after two minutes. Dominoes reacted well and fought a tough battle in midfield. Rangers expansive play eventually resulted in several efforts by Fincher, Smith and Gale. One move saw Smith execute a long corner for Ellis to sneak round the back of the defence and head home after 15 minutes. A fine move down the centre by Gale and early release to Smith for his second goal on twenty minutes. The second half started the same way with Heath-Allen adding penetration down the right and several dangerous crosses were defended well until a defensive header came to Williams on the edge of the box and he despatched a pile driver giving the keeper no chance in a crowded box.

10th December 2006

Longford Colts 0 – 4 Stafford Rangers JFC

Rangers returned to winning ways with a powerful away display of team football. MOM Jack Meddings was in inspired form as the midfield anchor and Ben Smith led the attack with a hat-trick. Rangers put their stamp on the game early on with neat interplay around the midfield area. Burke, Meddings and Simms created several chances early on for Smith. The first goal was inevitable and was a sharp, three pass move resulting in Smith converting. More chances fell to Whiteside, Smith, Simms and Ellis. The defensive unit was well led Bowen and Williams who snuffed out any possible chances. Reward came after 20 mins with a second individual goal for Smith after being put through by a Burke/Simms combination. The second half resumed with Longford exerting significant pressure. Powell and Stacey defended well and Stacey made a superb last ditch tackle to deny Colts. Rangers got hold of the game again and then created several more chances before a dangerous cross from Ellis saw Smith complete his hat-trick. Further good work down both flanks saw Gale run onto an incisive pass by Nation to convert. All in all the best team performance of this fledgling year for the U14’s

19th November 2006

Stafford Soccer School 5 - 1 Stafford Rangers JFC

This game started at a frenetic pace with Rangers making the early running. A free kick was almost converted by Nation but an excellent save from the keeper pushed the ball out onto the post. The resultant melee saw the ball crossed and the keeper make a double save from Ellis. Further chances saw Smith and Gale go near before a swift counter attack led to an own-goal under pressure in the box. Rangers continued to press. Gale blasted wide and Ellis and Simms had shots blocked. On 30 minutes a second defensive error saw goal two conceded. Two minutes into the second half the counter attacking style of SSS again saw them clinically score a third. Three attacks three goals, superb finishing. Rangers then came under intense pressure conceding two more. With 20 minutes to go Nation rounded his man and blasted across the keeper to get one back. He again crossed the ball five minutes later to see an open goal missed from four yards. It really was not Rangers day, three open goals three misses. Ten minutes from the end Nation slammed in another only for the goal to be disallowed for entering the goal from the side netting, which later proved to be impossible. A strong defeat on paper but Rangers acquitted themselves well against a rampant ball playing Soccer School. Excellent performances all round especially with Bowen and MOM, Meddings in defence, Burke, Ellis and Gale in midfield and Simms, Smith and Nation up front.

12th November 2006

 

Stafford Junior Colts 3 – 3 Stafford Rangers JFC

 

A lacklustre start to the game resulted in a conceded goal inside six minutes. Rangers struggled to come to terms with a Colts side more physical and defending deeply. On the half hour further confusion led to a second goal. MOM Bowen led the defensive line well and Powell, Stacey and Heath-Allen all worked well to prevent more goals. Rangers pulled their game together and a long range strike from Nation squeezed past the keeper just before half time. The interval came at the right time to consolidate tactics. More energy from Burke and Simms led to a string of chances from Hagan, Ellis, Gale and Nation. They were rewarded when Ellis blocked a defensive clearance which Burke latched on to and fed a ball across the line for Gale to convert. Against the run of play, two minutes later, a wonder strike from Colts restored their lead. Rangers then dominated proceedings with Hagan and Gale just failing to convert good crosses from the right. Nation crossed a third time and Hagan ran onto it from around the flank and scored his first for Rangers. Further crosses came and Hagan (2), Ellis, Gale, Nation all went close. The Colts goalkeeper was inspired and Rangers could not find the winning goal their play deserved.

06/11/2006

 

Trent Vale FC 2 - 4 Stafford Rangers JFC (South Staffs Cup)

 This South Staffs Cup match was a well contested affair. After an enterprising start with a five minute passing phase, Rangers went a behind to a well struck Vale goal. Solid defending from Bowen, Williams, Stacey and Heath-Allen held the fort over the next fifteen minutes. Rangers created chances for Smith, Simms, Ellis and Gale before a well threaded ball, from the impressive Nation, allowed Ellis to convert. Burke played a cameo in midfield with good results and he fed Gale on the half hour who rounded his man and flighted a cross for Ellis to bag a pair with a powerful header. Ellis thought he had converted his hat-trick with a volley only for it to be ruled offside. The second half saw Rangers dominate long phases of play with good work from Burke, Fincher, Whiteside, Gale and the indomitable Simms who was outstanding. A through ball to Ellis saw him hit the post and completed a deserved MOM award. Fifteen minutes from the end, Gale netted. A fine reward for all his hard endeavour. On the hour Ben Smith, who was dominant up front and had the measure of his opponents, rounded his man and slotted home a deserved goal. Rangers started to relax and allowed a consolation goal to Vale. They quickly took control again and Smith, Simms and Nation went close. An impressive victory against the Walsall league leaders.

 Sunday 29th October 2006

Stafford Rangers JFC 2 – 2 Brocton Falcons

Rangers found it difficult to break down a well organised and skilful

Brocton side. A defensive error after five minutes led to the Brocton opener and to a period of defending. Joe Williams and Dan Bowen excelled whilst Jack Meddings also produced the goods in protecting the back four. The most frequent chances came Rangers way but efforts from Gayle, Nation, Ellis, Simms and Whiteside were all well wide of the mark. Five minutes from the interval Nation drilled in a low pile driver which snaked its way past everyone to equalise the scores. From the off in the second half, Rangers upped the pace and a goal-bound header from Williams was headed off the line. Brocton came back into the game and from a free kick went 2-1 up against the run of play. Rangers responded well and again produced more attacking chances with Smith, Nation and Whiteside missing long range efforts. Ollie Burke turned on the style in midfield and a rampant Rangers got their just rewards. A sweeping move from one side to the other saw Nation round his man and drill in a low cross on the six yards line. Ellis scrambled the ball over despite a brave triple save by the Brocton keeper.

16/10/2006

 

Stafford Rangers JFC 1 - 3 Audley FC

 Rangers came up against their sternest test this season against an athletic and skilful Audley side. In the early stages good work by Dom Nation, Simms and Gale saw an excellent chance go begging. The two sides matched up evenly throughout the first half and Rangers were led superbly by their Captain Nation and defensive kingpin and Vice Captain Dan Bowen. Audley took a lucky lead just before the break but in the second half they piled on the pressure and started to show their experience. Two good goals were followed by a spirited fight-back and five minutes from the end, a long range effort was followed in by Simms who netted. Further chances fell to Nation and Gale and with more clinical finishing, Rangers could have had a different result. Dom Nation was MOM and excellent performances from Williams, Whiteside, Ellis and Heath-Allen helped to seal this as the U14s most complete match of the season

02/10/2006

Under 14’s - South staffs Cup

 

Stafford Rangers JFC 8 – 0 Perton & Codsall United

Rangers dominated this game from the start and three goals in six minutes from Dom Nation, Joe Simms and Taylor Ellis set the seal on the game. A sustained period of fast, attacking play followed and several chances went begging. In the second half the pace quickened and super passing plays led to Nation completing his hat trick along with a further three goals from Joe Gale. Joe Simms was a deserved Man of the Match but the Rangers team as a whole team performed as a solid unit to record their second clean sheet of the season.

24/09/2006

Under 14’s

 

Rugeley Rangers XI 0 – 4 Stafford Rangers JFC

 

The first half, against a determined Rugeley Rangers XI, was a turgid affair. Both sides battled for supremacy and the defensive line was held with Captain Dan Bowen and Jack Meddings in commanding form. The second half saw a breakthrough, forced via direct play in midfield, by Joe Simms. A period of sustained attack down the flanks from Mitch Hagan (MOM) and Taylor Ellis saw an increasing number of set plays. This resulted in a further goal tucked in from six yards by Jordan Fincher. Within five minutes Fincher was fed by Meddings from a corner and he volleyed his second into the roof of the net.

A progressive period of passing play ensued and the game was sealed by a clever pass from Ollie Burke to Joe Simms who bagged his brace. Solid performances from Powell, Burke, Heath-Allen and Williams helped cement this hard fought victory.