http://leerangers.com Lee Rangers Youth Football Club. The home of youth football in Lee-on-the-Solent. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:53:00 +0000 http://snappages.com en http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/07/41010-bishop-waltham-dynamos-2-4-lee-rangers-u15 http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/07/41010-bishop-waltham-dynamos-2-4-lee-rangers-u15 Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:53:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/07/41010-bishop-waltham-dynamos-2-4-lee-rangers-u15
Lee started reasonably well but the large [...]]]>
Lee started reasonably well but the large pitch at Priory Park caught them out on occasions and they were playing the ball too short. Eventually the ball over the top, lead to a fine 1st goal of Dan Lee’s hat-trick. Well done Dan and you lead the line well with Jordan Whiteley. The game to and froed, 1-1 then 2-1, 3-1 and 4-1 when Dynamos scored another with some excellent work down there right. MOM for Waltham was the skipper and centre half who had a great game.

Christian in the Lee goal pulled off 2 great saves before giving me a heart attack with one of his
kicks. Jack Butterworth looked more comfortable at the back and had a solid performance. Fred did well and stopped all attacks down his flank. Aaron and Tom G marshalled the defence extremely well and but for Thomas Bale having an absolute stonker would have won MOM. Thomas was outstanding today and played a true fullback performance. Well done Thomas, keep it up. Will was back to his tenacious self and with Dan and Thomas caused havoc down the right hand side. Harley was fantastic in the heart of the midfield with Tom Law putting in another great performance. Matty was everywhere on the left and he is not scared of any tackle. Jordan was my rock in attack and maybe could have had 1 or 2 more. At least we are making the chances.

I was very pleased with the performance, we have a few things to put right, but it was a heartening performance. Well done to each and every one of you, and I look forward to training Monday night.

Thanks for all the parental support, especially the Lines men.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/07/41010-lee-rangers-u11-2-5-crofton-saints-panthers http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/07/41010-lee-rangers-u11-2-5-crofton-saints-panthers Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:38:00 +0000 Glenn http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/07/41010-lee-rangers-u11-2-5-crofton-saints-panthers
A couple of unlucky deflections gave Crofton Saints a lead which didn't quite reflect the evenness of the game. Without these own-goals (and [...]]]>
A couple of unlucky deflections gave Crofton Saints a lead which didn't quite reflect the evenness of the game. Without these own-goals (and an excellent penalty save from Crofton's keeper) the score-line would have looked very different.

Good goals from Dec and Travis (who ensured that Harvey's powerful shot was converted after hitting the crossbar). Kieran proved that large goal wouldn't be a problem for him and the whole team (including the newcomers) all played exceptionally well.

Well done Lee Rangers!

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/05/4910-lee-rangers-u12a-10-v-3-widbrook http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/05/4910-lee-rangers-u12a-10-v-3-widbrook Sun, 05 Sep 2010 16:54:00 +0000 Alex http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/09/05/4910-lee-rangers-u12a-10-v-3-widbrook
I'm not sure if the dead rat that I found on the penalty spot points to some night time voodoo magic but it certainly seemed to help.

Some new faces, a new formation and a few positional changes saw Lee Rangers looking strong in [...]]]>
I'm not sure if the dead rat that I found on the penalty spot points to some night time voodoo magic but it certainly seemed to help.

Some new faces, a new formation and a few positional changes saw Lee Rangers looking strong in every area of the pitch. It was great to see the good work they have been putting in at training come off as they passed and counter attacked.

I usually have no problems remembering the order that we scored our goals but today was a new and welcome experience. Taine topped the scoring with 5, it could have been 6 if our offside cavalry charge went unnoticed, Drew and Tom both got a pair and Philip scored a nice one from out wide.

All the boys had a good game today so it was hard work to pick out a MOM but I think a 5 goal tally for Taine deserves some recognition.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/27/24410-lee-rangers-u14-6-v-2-east-lodge http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/27/24410-lee-rangers-u14-6-v-2-east-lodge Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:14:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/27/24410-lee-rangers-u14-6-v-2-east-lodge
Tom Griffin played in goal and we welcomed Nathan Carvell back onto the pitch for the first time in ages. Thanks to Nathan in keeping goal whilst Christian was away.

We started with a 4-4-2 formation with Nathan Carvell, Aaron Froude central and Fred and Addison as the fullbacks. Midfield saw Jacks Jurd and Butterworth in the centre with Thomas Bale and Matty Simmons starting on the flanks. That left top goal-scorer Dan Lee and Will Harrison up front with Nathan Daniels and Groce on the bench.

Lee did not start too brightly until the first goal went in and they started to plat some of the football they had displayed all season. However a lot of complacency was common and the team did not always work as hard as they have done. However with the league won and the game there for enjoyment, a lot of players went through the motions. Addison was steady at the back and Nathan marshalled the defence well covering when necessary. Jack Butterworth started slowly, but got more into it as the game went on. Jack Jurd covered every blade of grass as was deservedly the MOM for the day. Up front Dan again managed a hat-trick his eighth of the season taking his tally to 33 goals for the season. Jack Jurd notched a brace and Nathan Carvell got himself another goal. We made a slight defensive error for the first of the East Lodge goals but could take nothing away from a fine second goal by East Lodge. All players spent time on the bench and it was nice to see Nathan Daniels back in the fold with a good performance. Nathan Groce came on and found himself in several goal scoring opportunities but just failed to notch. Thomas Bale supported the midfield well again and managed to get in some good shots on goal. All in all a pleasing performance with 4 players missing from the team and a comfortable win.

The goal scorers for the Season are as follows

Dan Lee 33, Jack Jurd 13, Thomas Bale 12, Glenn Woods 9, Tom Law 8, Jack Butterworth 7, Alex Zotsch 7, Tom Griffin 5, Will Harrison 5, Matty Simmons 3, Fred Saunders 3, Nathan Carvell 3, Nathan Groce 2, Connor Jennings 1, Mike Mawby 1, Addison Leng 1, Nathan Daniels 1. That give a total of 114 goals scored by the team + 1 og taking it to 115 for the season.

The League is as follows:

Lee Rangers P:16 W:14 D:2 L:0 F:110 A:9 GD:101 Pts:44

Well done again and let’s hope we take this form into next season.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/11/100410-lee-rangers-u14-11-2-eastney-pythons-b http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/11/100410-lee-rangers-u14-11-2-eastney-pythons-b Sun, 11 Apr 2010 18:45:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/11/100410-lee-rangers-u14-11-2-eastney-pythons-b
We played against probably the best team spirited side we have come across this season in Eastney B team. Lee Rangers were a little under par for the first half and although [...]]]>
We played against probably the best team spirited side we have come across this season in Eastney B team. Lee Rangers were a little under par for the first half and although going 1 up were quickly equalised against. The defence of Jack Jurd, Aaron Froude Addison Leng and Freddie Saunders were under very little pressure. The manager changed the formation to 3 4 3 and the team got a little better. Alex Zotsch, Will Harrison, Jack Butterworth and Thomas Bale had a little difficulty getting to grips with the midfield and Glenn Woods and Dan Lee caused many problems up front although they overplayed on occasions. Once the formation changed we came in at 5 – 1 up and the manager was starting to celebrate the championship. However it was not before he reminded the boys of their lack of work for each other and the team as a whole. Second Half was better and Alex went in goal for Nathan Carvell who came out and ran the defence. Matty Simmons came on for Will and Nathan Groce came on for Glenn.

The Eastney keeper kept the score down with some fine saves, but that did not stop Dan Lee reaching 30 goals for the season with another 4 today. That coupled with team skipper Jack Butterworth scoring a Hat-trick and Fred, Will, Jack Jurd and Alex notching one apiece gave us a clear win by 11 – 2. Matty Simmons was narrowly beaten to MOM by Jack B and Jack Jurd needs to be congratulated on another fine performance.

Well the team has now won the ‘C’ League with one game to spare on the 24th April. Well done to all of the boys and here is hoping that we will continue our good form into next season.

Training is postponed again this week, but back on the following week.

Thanks for all your support and particularly Alex and Val for coming down today from the U11 team.

See you all at training on the 21st April at Lee Rec

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/05/3410-lee-rangers-u11b-1-lee-rangers-u11a-10 http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/05/3410-lee-rangers-u11b-1-lee-rangers-u11a-10 Mon, 05 Apr 2010 16:24:00 +0000 http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/04/05/3410-lee-rangers-u11b-1-lee-rangers-u11a-10
We have spent a lot of this season [...]]]>
We have spent a lot of this season working on passing and especially passing under pressure. I was pleased to see the boys moving the ball around and some of the one touch ‘pass and go’ moves were just great to see.

Although we ran out 10-1 winners things were fairly even to start with but eventually Josh’s runs down the wing and crosses to Taine created a number of goals. The B team never gave up and kept pressing, this allowed us to see the work on defending that we have also been doing, hold up the opposition, get numbers back, win the ball and break out.

I take my hat of to Brian and the boys in the B team, they kept on trying and were eventually rewarded with a well taken free kick.

I was really pleased with the teamwork shown, looking up and passing to a team mate, working hard to win the ball and taking chances when they came. We still need to keep our feet on the ground at throw ins though!

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/28/27310-lee-rangers-a-2-8-crofton-saints http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/28/27310-lee-rangers-a-2-8-crofton-saints Sun, 28 Mar 2010 13:37:00 +0000 http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/28/27310-lee-rangers-a-2-8-crofton-saints
We had a proper team talk in the changing rooms and I think it helped the boys to focus on the match and what they individually needed to do. The match started evenly and was goalless for some [...]]]>
We had a proper team talk in the changing rooms and I think it helped the boys to focus on the match and what they individually needed to do. The match started evenly and was goalless for some time. However Crofton eventually went 3 up despite a lot of effort by the lads. They kept working though and we got 1 back when Taine bundled in from close range followed up but Tom finishing of some 18 yard box ping pong. I felt that we were on the up as we went into HT.

In the second half we had so many chances that just went wide or over or missed the onrushing forward. They were passing so well which has been our main focus in training and it was good to see them looking to play the ball to a team mate. At the back we had the opposite luck and Crofton ended up getting another 5 goals.

It was a shame because the boys really did play well and I genuinely think that the score didn’t reflect the match. But it was one of their best performances of the season.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/28/270310-lee-rangers-u14-8-1-stubbington-fc http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/28/270310-lee-rangers-u14-8-1-stubbington-fc Sun, 28 Mar 2010 09:32:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/28/270310-lee-rangers-u14-8-1-stubbington-fc
Second half started after a stern talking to at half time. Nathan Carvell in goal was excellent and Tom Griffin marshalled his defence of Freddie, Aaron and Tom Law who came on for an unfortunate Addison. The midfield of Will the two Jacks and Thomas played average in the first half, but pulled themselves together in the second half. Glenn and Dan lead the line and to be fair Dan was unfortunate not to get MOM, just pipped by Jack Jurd. Nathan Daniels came on for Fred and Nathan came on for Dan. Matty came on for Will who was injured and the team played like a different team in the second half.

After a great fight by Stubbington, Lee started to score goals and Dan finished with another hat trick and he is still on course to score 30 for the season a great achievement. Tom Law, Glenn Woods, Fred Saunders, Nathan Daniels and Thomas scored 1 apiece.

The game was well won in the end, but the team need to work harder off the ball as well as on the ball. Having said all that I was really pleased with the second half performance and we need 3 points from the last 6 available.

Well done each and every player, thanks for the support from the side and here’s hoping we can win the league on the 10th April.

See you all Wednesday.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/13/130310-lee-rangers-u14-12-0-hedge-end-tigers http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/13/130310-lee-rangers-u14-12-0-hedge-end-tigers Sat, 13 Mar 2010 21:29:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/13/130310-lee-rangers-u14-12-0-hedge-end-tigers
Thanks again to the parents for their support and help with nets etc.

See you Wednesday at Training.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/07/060310-gosport-borough-yfc-6-0-lee-rangers-u10 http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/07/060310-gosport-borough-yfc-6-0-lee-rangers-u10 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 17:18:00 +0000 Glenn http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/07/060310-gosport-borough-yfc-6-0-lee-rangers-u10
GBYFC were certainly playing to win, only giving their substitutes a short time on pitch after a very even first [...]]]>
GBYFC were certainly playing to win, only giving their substitutes a short time on pitch after a very even first half. Lee Rangers had many chances but the Gosport keeper was on top form and denied Rhys (as well many others) several times. Kieran responded likewise though and the first 35 minutes of the 50 minute match were goalless.

As Lee bagan to tire, the Gosport starting lineup returned to the pitch and capitalised on the situation. But Lee didn't give in and everyone fought to the final whistle. Great performances all round. Special mention to Connor and Rhys and Man of the Match to Calum.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/07/060310-lee-rangers-u14-1-0-bishop-waltham-dynamos http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/07/060310-lee-rangers-u14-1-0-bishop-waltham-dynamos Sun, 07 Mar 2010 17:16:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/03/07/060310-lee-rangers-u14-1-0-bishop-waltham-dynamos
Just before half-time Will was replaced by Thomas Bale and (you are very heavy Will). The half-time team talk concentrated on getting the ball forward quicker and keeping the ball. BW Dynamoes came out of the blocks on fire and hassled and hurried us into a lot of mistakes. 10 minutes in we calmed down and chances for Tom, Dan and Nathan Daniels who had come on were not converted. The manager was swallowing his heart pills as he was very agitated. Fred Saunders came on for Tom Law to put e oncoming forward 5 in midfield. This left Dan up front by himself. More chances came and then in the last 3 minutes Christian gave the manager and team a heart stopping moment, when he blasted the ball at the BW forward and the ball rebounded towards the Lee Rangers goal. Fortunately Christian got back to save it. In the very last minute, Nathan got the ball at the edge of the box and just missed by the smallest of margins. The final whistle blew and both managers agreed that both teams played well but Lee did deserve the win. The BW Dynamos Centre Half, Jack, had a magnificent game at the back and is to be congratulated. Well done to everyone who helped out today. I couldn’t have done it without your help.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/28/27210-lee-rangers-u14-3-0-grayshott-b http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/28/27210-lee-rangers-u14-3-0-grayshott-b Sun, 28 Feb 2010 10:26:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/28/27210-lee-rangers-u14-3-0-grayshott-b
The referee was happy with either pitch, although he wanted the large goals putting on the smaller pitch if that was our choice. Both managers agreed to use the [...]]]>
The referee was happy with either pitch, although he wanted the large goals putting on the smaller pitch if that was our choice. Both managers agreed to use the full size pitch, knowing that the bigger pitch was a little boggy in places.

The game kicked off at 10 am and it was a very competitive game. Both teams had a couple of chances, before Tom Law linked with Dan Lee and Tom kept his shot on target and scored our first. The game was still end to end and the defence of Tom Griffin, Aaron Froude, Alex Zotsch and Nathan Carvell were solid. Midfield was marshalled really well by Jack Jurd, Jack Butterworth, with support from Glen Woods and Will Harrison on the flanks. Up front, as I said before Tom and Dan linked very well.

A free-kick was awarded and Jack Jurd was unlucky to see it hit the crossbar, only for Will Harrison to head in the rebound.

Second-half started with us up at 2 goals to nil. Nathan Daniels came on for Will and shortly after Thomas came on for Glenn. Both players made an immediate impact and a few minutes later Freddie replaced Tom Law and the team went to 4-5-1 to try and consolidate. A corner was awarded and Jack hit a first time shot that hit the underside of the bar and bounced over the line. The boys claimed a goal and the club lineman from Grayshott signalled the goal.

All in all a very competitive match, that was hard fought by both teams. I don’t think I have seen less than 3 goals on any of my visits here.

My thanks go to Chris and Martin who ran the line and to all the parents, for their help and support.

See you on training on Wednesday.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/26/20210-lee-rangers-u14-8-0-eastney-pythons-a http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/26/20210-lee-rangers-u14-8-0-eastney-pythons-a Fri, 26 Feb 2010 19:13:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/26/20210-lee-rangers-u14-8-0-eastney-pythons-a
The team will have to up their game next week if they are to compete. On a positive note training was both well attended and the team responded well.

Congratulations to Eastney today who very competitive throughout the game. Well done lads and remember what I said at the end of the game and in training.

Well done to the contingent of parents who were very supportive today.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/20/9-men-go-down-fighting http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/20/9-men-go-down-fighting Sat, 20 Feb 2010 20:47:00 +0000 http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/20/9-men-go-down-fighting
In the first half we held our own, Olly made loads of great saves and we were protecting the goal as much as we could. The 3 lads in midfield Tom, Josh & Taine had to work their socks off and cover an area normally done by 5. But the chances did come our way, Josh broke forward and scored a goal and James took a free kick that Taine latched onto a scored.

At HT we were 4-2 down but I was really pleased with the effort and the scoreline wasn’t too bad considering. The first half did seem longer than the usual 30 minutes and the lads looked bushed as we spoke during the interval.

I changed a few players round to try and give us strength down one flank and also give 1 or 2 a breather. We were kicking uphill in the 2nd half, whether it was this, the new formation or just being worn out I’m not sure but we conceded a handfull of quick goals and things unravelled for a while.
But we weren’t beaten yet, Josh went close and Taine scored on a breakaway.

So the game finished 11-3, the lads certainly tried their best, a great performance and effort they can be proud of, they looked done in at the end. Maybe they can learn something from today.

MOM – Went to Taine who proved again that he can score a couple of goals a game, even when outnumbered.

PMOM – Was Tom who yet again played with great heart, guts and passion.

Players MOM went to Josh, we were all delighted to see him back and he too played his heart out.



]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/09/060210-university-of-portsmouth-2-3-lee-rangers-u10 http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/09/060210-university-of-portsmouth-2-3-lee-rangers-u10 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 09:59:00 +0000 Glenn http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/09/060210-university-of-portsmouth-2-3-lee-rangers-u10
Two goals from Dec and one from Rhys meant we emerged victorious. Great performances all round this week, especially Connor [...]]]>
Two goals from Dec and one from Rhys meant we emerged victorious. Great performances all round this week, especially Connor who claimed Man of the Match for the third game in a row. The defense was strong throughout with some great clearances and the midfield worked really well all game. It's hard to pick out any one in particular as everyone really did give it all they could.

Well done Lee Rangers!

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/07/622010-clanfield-12-3-lee-rangers-u11a http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/07/622010-clanfield-12-3-lee-rangers-u11a Sun, 07 Feb 2010 16:25:00 +0000 Alex http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/07/622010-clanfield-12-3-lee-rangers-u11a
MOM went to Jake who had his best game yet, lots of tackles and passes.

PMOM went to Tom who covered every blade of grass……………twice!

Michael and Taine also received special recognition for playing key parts in the match.

The last few weeks have shown that we are short on numbers and that we rely on perhaps half a dozen players to hold it together for the team. As soon as we lose one or two of those players we have no strength in depth and struggle to compete. But I was proud today of the boys and the game they played.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/06/060210-lee-rangers-u14-1-1-bishop-waltham-dynamoes http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/06/060210-lee-rangers-u14-1-1-bishop-waltham-dynamoes Sat, 06 Feb 2010 16:29:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/02/06/060210-lee-rangers-u14-1-1-bishop-waltham-dynamoes
]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/31/30110-afc-dynamo-10-1-lee-rangers-u11a http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/31/30110-afc-dynamo-10-1-lee-rangers-u11a Sun, 31 Jan 2010 19:43:00 +0000 Alex http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/31/30110-afc-dynamo-10-1-lee-rangers-u11a
I was just looking for an improvement on last week. We started much better and there was an improvement in closing down the Dynamo attack. We were still outplayed by a better side but at least we were trying to make it hard for them. Tom was everywhere hassling & harrying and Travis was using his head to look for danger. Olly made some great saves and ensured that if the ball came into his area that he kept hold of it. We were still 4-0 down at half time but had been in the game a lot more.


The tackles were flying in

The start of the 2nd half saw 2 quick goals scored by some fantastic Dynamo moves. After that we got back into it and had some attacks of our own. The pacy Dynamo defence kept getting back though and winning the ball back. Eventually we broke clear and as Bryce approached the goal he lofted the ball up and over the keeper for it to bounce in. The biggest cheer of the day went up as we got the goal, it was a cool finish by Bryce. We still struggled to contain the Dynamo movement and the match finished 10-1.


Another break from midfield

I was pleased to see a better performance, which was demonstrated by the score compared to last week.

Special mentions went to Travis & Bryce for thinking ahead, Olly for another outstanding display in goal and Skid who showed again what effort & attitude can do.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/30/300110-lee-rangers-u14-3-0-crofton-saints http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/30/300110-lee-rangers-u14-3-0-crofton-saints Sat, 30 Jan 2010 22:40:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/30/300110-lee-rangers-u14-3-0-crofton-saints
Anyway passes did go astray and the first touch of a lot of the players was lacking, not to mention the bobbly pitch. Dan Lee went close on a few occasions before one of our many corners was converted by Nathan Carvell with a great header. The boys came in at half-time and got a roasting as they new they could do much better. Second half they played much better and but for the post Tom Law nearly notched and then a penalty was awarded and Jack Jurd did not hesitate to smash it into the goal.

Tom Griffin was replaced and Jack Butterworth went to Centre back, Alex Zotsch went into midfield and scored a screamer after some hard work by Nathan Groce.

All in all I was pleased with the performance and Jack Jurd, Alex and MOM Nathan Carvell deserve a special mention.

Well done boys and I will see you Wednesday at training.

Thanks to Chris for getting me there and helping set-up. To Martin and Chris for running the line and to Liz and the Norfolk contingent for helping with the bacon butties.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/30/300110-lee-rangers-u10-0-4-waltham-wolves-wolverines http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/30/300110-lee-rangers-u10-0-4-waltham-wolves-wolverines Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:50:00 +0000 Glenn http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/30/300110-lee-rangers-u10-0-4-waltham-wolves-wolverines
Remember boys - First to the ball!

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/23/23110-lee-rangers-u11a-2-18-afc-dynamo http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/23/23110-lee-rangers-u11a-2-18-afc-dynamo Sat, 23 Jan 2010 17:30:00 +0000 Alex http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/23/23110-lee-rangers-u11a-2-18-afc-dynamo
I wanted the players to focus on their passing and it’s an area we will be concentrating on in training for a while. Too often players aimlessly [...]]]>
I wanted the players to focus on their passing and it’s an area we will be concentrating on in training for a while. Too often players aimlessly lump the ball forward with no idea where or who its going to and I want to see them think about where they want to pass it.

The game pretty much consisted of Dynamo getting a goal every few minutes whilst we had the odd breakaway. There were snippets of controlled passing and it would have been even better if we had less panic hoofing. The panic is a result of pressure from the opposition that gives the boys less time to make a decision. This is another area that I would like to see an improvement where we put the opposition under more pressure. Anyone can do this, no skill is required, just some attitude and effort.

In the end Dynamo scored either 17, 18 or 19 goals whilst our breakaways saw a goal each for Bryce and Drew.

The good news is that we play Dynamo again next week.

A few players got mentions today, James played despite a nasty mark rash down his leg, Bryce has been doing really well in training and got a goal, Tom demonstrated the effort and passing I want to see more of and Skid battled throughout.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/02/020110-lee-rangers-u14-0-3-whiteley-wanderers-friendly http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/02/020110-lee-rangers-u14-0-3-whiteley-wanderers-friendly Sat, 02 Jan 2010 10:38:00 +0000 Steve http://leerangers.com/blog/2010/01/02/020110-lee-rangers-u14-0-3-whiteley-wanderers-friendly
The game started well with nothing to choose between the teams except [...]]]>
The game started well with nothing to choose between the teams except Whiteley looked a little more comfortable on the ball. However chances were shared and then one of our players went on a mazy only to lose the ball and was quite over exhuberant in getting the ball back and left me no choice but to replace him. That left a little whole in the back four and Whiteley took full advantage with 3 goals in the second half.

Negatives from the performance were a complete lack of fitness. Positives were the fact that we kept going and some of the players I have nt seen put in great performances.

Well done.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/12/13/121209-lee-rangers-u11a-3-2-warsash-wasps http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/12/13/121209-lee-rangers-u11a-3-2-warsash-wasps Sun, 13 Dec 2009 15:24:00 +0000 Alex http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/12/13/121209-lee-rangers-u11a-3-2-warsash-wasps


In the 2nd half Drew and Josh were creating chances for Taine who had a shot parried out to the flank where Josh, from a very tight angle lashed home our second equaliser. At the other end we had a bit of luck as Wasps missed a number of chances. With 10 minutes to go the game was still 2-2 and evenly balanced as both sides tried for the deciding goal. A quick pass from midfield saw Josh and Taine counter attack behind the high defence, the keeper just got there first but his clearance fell to Drew who was able to score our 3rd goal. We were hanging on now as Wasps threw everything at us, Olly made a great finger tip save to steer a goal bound header around the post and we survived a succession of corners to hang on for the win.

It was a great team performance, everyone worked their socks off and did what they needed to do. Special mentions should go to Josh for non-stop energy and creativity, Drew for clever passing, Michael for being a rock at the back, James for his tenacity and Olly for some great saves and bravery. We also have a few lads learning new positions which made the win even more special.

PMOM – James who showed great determination and even had a few runs down the left wing.

MOM – Drew for lots of passes that created goal scoring chances and being there to tuck away the winner.

I’d like to thank Andy for helping with warm ups and running the line, Gary for helping with goals and warm ups and Andy & Simon for their ongoing support.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/11/29/281109-lee-rangers-u11a-8-1-lee-rangers-u11b http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/11/29/281109-lee-rangers-u11a-8-1-lee-rangers-u11b Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:30:00 +0000 Alex http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/11/29/281109-lee-rangers-u11a-8-1-lee-rangers-u11b
Sure enough Tom won the toss and we [...]]]>
Sure enough Tom won the toss and we defended into the wind as the B team kicked off. We soon had some attacks going forward but were missing our chances in front of goal. Eventually Bradley made sure of a goal bound effort from Michael. We had to do some defending of our own and Levi equalised for the B team. I was really pleased with the improvement in positional discipline and the passing that was going on, we were defending well and passing forward more quickly to break through onto goal. Josh scored our second and Drew got the third.



At half time I felt that despite the score being close we could go on with the wind behind us and make sure of the win. Taine was much more composed this time and scored the quickest hat trick ever! I started rotating players around to give them experience in different positions and to keep the subs from getting too cold. Taine managed a 4th goal and Tom struck from distance through a crowd of players.



There were plenty of positives today:

Olly had another confident spell in goal, James, Skid and Jake M all made good tackles, Travis chested a couple of balls down and passed them to the midfield. Jake P and Dom both did well in front of defence occupying that problem gap behind our attack. Tom was buzzing about winning the ball and Bradley & Josh were thinking about their options with the ball. Drew created problems down the right and Michael & Bryce both did very well in defence getting some good tackles in. Taine had a great game especially that spell of 20 minutes in the 2nd half.

A good morale boosting team performance where everyone played well.

PMOM – Went to Taine who make sure of the win today with 4 quick goals.

MOM – Bradley who’s industrious energy caused the B team all sorts of problems.

Well done lads and thanks to everyone for their support and help.

So after our biggest goal haul in a game, you must have some comments? (or does nobody read these reports!)

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/11/22/211109-lee-rangers-u11a-1-5-afc-portchester http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/11/22/211109-lee-rangers-u11a-1-5-afc-portchester Sun, 22 Nov 2009 15:37:00 +0000 Alex http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/11/22/211109-lee-rangers-u11a-1-5-afc-portchester
The boys started well and the first half was evenly balanced with chances at both ends. Olly was great in goal and made some crucial saves, at the other end we still overelaborate in front of goal and either [...]]]>
The boys started well and the first half was evenly balanced with chances at both ends. Olly was great in goal and made some crucial saves, at the other end we still overelaborate in front of goal and either watch the ball or try too hard to set a shot up. All too often any shots we did have were straight at the keeper. But I was pleased with the general performance and we went into HT at 0-0. I think this may be the first time we have played a full half without conceding a goal.

I made a few changes at half time, I try to give everyone a go whilst maintaining a strong side, this doesn't always help us to win as the flow on the pitch gets disrupted as players change around. When the match started I checked on our subs and couldn't find one of them, to my embarrasment he was still playing, I quickly took him off before anyone noticed! Lucky for me he was only on for 30s.

We conceded 2 quick goals and a few heads dropped. It often seems that whoever scores first goes on to win, the lads need to put any setbacks behind them and carry on as I felt we could still get a goal or two of our own. Unfortunatley another couple went in at our end before our chances came. We had a free kick that narrowly missed and a few goal mouth scrambles before Josh broke forward on the right to cross in and then bundle home the loose ball. We were getting caught out with too many players forward which allowed Portchester to break out into the space in front of our defence and we conceded one last goal.

So perhaps some cooler finishing may have tilted the balance in our favour. At the moment my main focus in training has been the defence, we have been working on individual techniques then progressing to working in pairs and then all 4 as a unit. I do feel that the defence has improved although we have a way to go yet but at least it's a positive! Another positive was Olly in goal who is looking descisive, commanding and fearless. A good first half display today against the team top of the table by a large margin.

PMOM - Josh - lots of energy, pace and passing.

MOM - Michael who had a great game with his new pink boots!

Thanks to Andy for running the line and to Gary for helping with the goals and Tom for showing me where the dog poo on the pitch is......

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/10/24/241009-lee-rangers-u10-3-0-university-of-portsmouth http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/10/24/241009-lee-rangers-u10-3-0-university-of-portsmouth Sat, 24 Oct 2009 11:20:00 +0000 Glenn http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/10/24/241009-lee-rangers-u10-3-0-university-of-portsmouth
Harvey emerged as man of the match (as voted for by the parents) and I must say [...]]]>
Harvey emerged as man of the match (as voted for by the parents) and I must say it was clearly his best game of the season. The defense were especially strong this week, where Calum and Finlay were occasionally joined by others to help keep a clean-sheet for Lee. Kieran was, once again, unbeatable. Kristian and Rhys seemed to be constantly challenging the opposition's defense and they were both very close to scoring on several occasions.

And a special thanks goes to all the parents who stood in the rain to support the boys.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/01/24/240109-lee-rangers-u10-1-0-crofton-saints-tigers http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/01/24/240109-lee-rangers-u10-1-0-crofton-saints-tigers Sat, 24 Jan 2009 11:22:00 +0000 Glenn http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/01/24/240109-lee-rangers-u10-1-0-crofton-saints-tigers
This second friendly of the day was against a new Crofton side. Lee Rangers were much more awake this time and played well throughout the whole game. Tom [...]]]>
This second friendly of the day was against a new Crofton side. Lee Rangers were much more awake this time and played well throughout the whole game. Tom scored our only goal, although there were several other chances - many of which were saved by the Tigers' excellent keeper.

Following a very solid performance in the first game Keenan really pulled out all the stops in this one. A well earned Man of the Man was awarded to him, unanimously, by the rest of the team. But without exception, everyone played well in this game. The passing practice over the last couple of weeks, combined with a bit of self belief really paid off. Now we just need to start shooting a little earlier and we'll really start racking up the goals.

Thanks go to Charlie, both the Crofton teams and all the parents that came along. On a weekend which saw most games called off we managed to have a great morning of fun and competitive football.

]]> http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/01/24/240109-lee-rangers-u10-1-4-crofton-saints-lions http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/01/24/240109-lee-rangers-u10-1-4-crofton-saints-lions Sat, 24 Jan 2009 10:22:00 +0000 Glenn http://leerangers.com/blog/2009/01/24/240109-lee-rangers-u10-1-4-crofton-saints-lions
Well done. A good start after a long break.

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