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Category: BHYFC Football

Bergholt Heath Youth Football Club

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BHYFC Results 12th January and Fixtures 19th January

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 12th January

BHYFC Under 9s vs Gt Bradfords

Bergholt Heath took on Great Bradfords on what was a rather sticky Bergholt pitch following on from the U11s match against Cornard earlier.  The hosts were the brighter in the first half with some very slick passing creating a number of scoring chances for Ollie and James in particular, but found the Bradfords keeper in exceptional form. When Bradfords did attack, the Bergholt defence were able to restrict their opportunities to a minimum, the best coming when Freddie upended the attacker on the edge of the area.  However, the freekick was sent over the bar.  HT 0-0.

The second half started the better for the visitors when early on both Thomas L and a Bradfords attacker went tumbling together in the box.  After a few seconds thought, the referee awarded a penalty to Bradfords whose striker smashed the ball into the roof of the net giving Daniel no chance.  This gave Bradfords a lift and they went further in the lead when the striker broke through the Bergholt defence and coolly slotted the ball past Daniel.  To their credit Bergholt did not give up and despite being on the end of some robust challenges continued to press, but once again the Bradfords keeper stood in their way making one fine save in particular when faced with Theo in a one-on-one situation.

Despite all her best efforts, the Bradfords keeper was only beaten when Oliver beat her with a piledriver from just inside the box.  However it wasn’t enough for Bergholt and the visitors came out winners 2-1.

BHYFC Under 11s vs Cornard Dynamos Reds

The Under 11s manager, Pete Sanderson, was not available to lead his team and see his son Matthew put in a ‘man of the match’ display that saw them overcome a valiant Cornard team 2-0 with goals from Jack Tomlin and Freddie Scott-Yates.

Stanway Rovers vs BHYFC Under 15s – Open Cup Round 1

The Under 15s started the defence of the cup they won as under 14’s back in May with a short away trip to Stanway to take on fellow A league side Stanway Rovers.

Already without striker James Holden who has a knee injury that will keep him out until around the end of January, Bergholt were dealt a blow in the warm up with key midfielder Cairan pulled his abductor muscle ruling him out of the game and possibly for a  further couple of weeks.

Despite this, Bergholt started the game brightly although the pitch was making their usual short passing game difficult against a team with a much more direct style.  The first goal of the game went to the home team when a long ball forward looked like it was going to carry to the ‘keeper but held up slightly in the mud to allow the striker to get there first and coolly finish with Connor stranded. Bergholt huffed and puffed and had a few half chances to equalise, plus one clear chance that the home ‘keeper saved well, but went in at half time trailing 1-0.

The second half started with Bergholt applying more pressure and with a little more composure in front of goal they would have equalised.  Against the run of play Stanway scored a second goal when Aaron miss-controlled and lost the ball to the striker who run directly into the area before turning back to finish well.  Bergholt were shell shocked by this and for a few minutes it looked like the home team were going to walk away with the game.  However a change of positions with Sam moving into midfield, James dropping back into central defence with Jamie moving to the right side, seemed to bring new life to Bergholt and they regained the initiative.  Again chances came but were not taken.  However with 10 minutes remaining Max got free on the right and drove into the penalty area, only to be upended as he went past the ‘keeper. Penalty.  Ollie stepped up to send the ‘keeper the wrong way to bring Bergholt back into the Match.

Another switch of formation to 3 at the back saw Bergholt dominate the remainder of the game and they duly managed to equalise with just 2 minutes left when Mickey, now playing as left wing back, was put through to finish well into the bottom right hand corner of the goal. There was still time left for Stanway to launch another attack down their right but Connor in the Bergholt goal came out commandingly to claim the cross – and the striker too (who had to go off injured) – to send the match into extra time.

Extra Time

The first half of extra time was generally a one way affair with Bergholt piling on the pressure against a team who were now playing with 10 men, as their striker who was injured at the end of normal time had tried but could not continue and Stanway did not have any substitutes available.  Jamie hit the post from a corner and the Stanway defence somehow managed to stop the ball crossing the all-important line on more than one occasion.  The second half of extra time saw the striker come back on in a deeper role and, although not moving well, this helped Stanway balance the play up and it took Connor to make another save to keep the score level at 2-2 at the end of extra time.

Penalty shoot out.

Stanway took the first kick and scored, as did Ben for Bergholt. Stanway scored their second penalty, as did Luke. The home team missed their third with the ball going wide of the post, with Jamie scoring to put Bergholt into the lead.  Stanway scored their fourth but then Mickey had his kick easily saved by the home ‘keeper. Connor then saved Stanway’s fifth attempt to allow Sam the chance to win the match for Bergholt with the final kick. Unfortunately he put his shot over the bar to take the shoot out into sudden death.  The sixth taker for Stanway also put his shot over the bar and Max walked up to put his shot off the inside of the post and into the net to win the cup tie for Bergholt!

Final score AET: 2-2. Bergholt Heath won 4-3 on penalties

Bergholt Heath ‘man of the match’: after a draining couple of hours it was decided to award the whole team for an heroic effort to pull the result out of the bag, rather than an individual.

Next weeks fixtures Sunday 19th January:

  • Oyster Youth vs Under 9
  • Under 11 vs Wivenhoe Town,  KO 10am
  • Wivenhoe Youth vs Under 15
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BHYFC Results 15th December and Fixtures 9th January

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 15th December

The Under 9’s are on their mid-season break until January.

BHYFC Under 11s vs Feering Falcons Blues

A tough fixture lay ahead for the boys today.  They battled really hard in the first half with some excellent tussles going on all over the pitch.

We could have taken the lead , when Ty raced onto a clearance by Jo. With the defender breathing down his neck and the keeper racing out to him Ty was under some pressure and took the wrong option at the vital moment. We went in to half time one down when we conceded to a well converted corner by their excellent striker.

Still all to play for in the second half though.  Matt equalised after 10 minutes with a superb free kick from  the right side of the  box high into the opposite corner.  For the next 5 minutes things were looking OK and there was a feeling we could get something out the game.

But then a defensive error let Falcons retake the lead. From here it started going downhill especially at the back. There were some good periods of play by the boys near the end but Feering ran out deserved winners.

Final score:  Bergholt Heath 1 – 5 Feering Falcons Blues.

Bit of a disappointing end before the extended Christmas break. Hopefully the boys will come bouncing back in the new year.

MOM went to Harvey for another fine display.

BHYFC Under 15s vs Heybridge Swifts

Bergholt were again without a key player for this match, with Ollie Sanderson missing.  However Sam Clark was back at the centre of defence.   The match started evenly some play mainly in the centre of the pitch, however it was the visitors who took the lead when their striker was left unmarked at the far post to hit home after around 8 minutes.  Bergholt were struggling to get their passing game going and generally the final pass option seemed to be the wrong one, and were tending to stand off the visiting players a bit too much, allowing them time to pick their own passes.  With 10 minutes to go before half time Bergholt equalised when James Hirst powered his way through from the left of midfield to life his shot over the advancing ‘keeper and into the far corner for his first goal of the season.  HT 1-1.

The second half started more brightly for Bergholt and they began to get on top, with most of the early play taking place in the visitors half.  Against the run of play, it was Heybridge who took the lead again: a long ball over the top sent the striker away towards the area with the Bergholt central defender pressurising him away from a direct run through on goal.  However as they jostled each other for the ball, the Bergholt ‘keeper decided to come out and try to claim the loose ball and collided with the defender – leaving the striker to place the ball into the empty net.

Bergholt did not deserve to be behind and immediately took the game to Heybridge.  Within 5 minutes they equalised again when Luke got on the end of a lose bouncing ball on the edge of the area and managed to lob the ‘keeper first time with a right foot shot, the ball dropping into the back of the net. A superb instinctive finish.  Within a minute Bergholt almost took the lead when a misplaced clearance was picked up by Max who burst between the defenders and lifted the ball deftly over the ‘keeper – only this time the ball dropped agonisingly over the bar rather than into the net.

The remainder of the game was an open affair with both teams going for the win – which was finally taken by the visitors when their striker neatly turned Harry just outside the area and hit a first time shot into the roof of the net before Connor had time to really set himself in goal.

Final score: Bergholt Heath 2 – 3 Heybridge Swifts

Bergholt Heath man of the match: Max Booth – another all action midfield display

Next scheduled matches: Sunday 5th January 2014

  • Under 9 vs Rowhedge Juniors  KO 11am
  • Under 11 – No game
  • Stanway Rovers vs Under 15

Wishing all players,  parents and supporters of Bergholt Heath YFC a very Merry Christmas

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BHYFC Results 8th December and Fixtures 15th December

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 8th December

The Under 9’s are on their mid-season break until January.

BHYFC Under 11s vs Feering Falcons Reds

The morning did not get off to the best start with both Ben and Richard phoning in sick. It got even worse when Harvey turned up feeling unwell and then took a knock in the warm up for good measures.

This meant we had 8 and a half players to face Feering who we had succumbed to earlier in the season. Thankfully this was as bad as it got as the boys put in a terrific show. The passing and teamwork was far better today.

Straight from kick off we took the game to Falcons and numerous chances were had and missed in the first half. Ty got through twice one-on-one with the keeper but showed too much at the crucial moment.  Tom had a chance as did Fred and Alex.  One of the better ones came from Matt who whose shot passed the keeper but was kept out by the crossbar.

Finally the deadlock was broken when after a corner, Tom put home from 10 yards.  At the other end Nathan, Jonah and Jack kept the attackers at bay. Poor Harv was getting colder as time passed.

The second half was even better with the boys switching play about to move up field.  The second came from a brilliant surging run by Jack whose ball in found Ty to knock it into the net.  Tom got his second with a short range stab in to make it 3-0.

It was at this point we had to go down to 8 as Harv had to come off ill.  Tyler took his place between the sticks.  A man down but still the guys attacked and Tom finished his hat trick from another corner.  There was just time for Matt to knock in a fantastic shot into the top left corner after missing several chances to make the final score 5-0.

Well done boys a great effort considering the shortage of players.

MOM went to Tom not for his hat trick; but for going the whole of the second half without his laces coming undone.

Cornard Dynamos Blues vs BHYFC Under 15s

It was a hard fought draw today, but our boys could easily have taken all 3 points had we had better luck and finishing.

We got a perfect start when James headed on to Ben and he shrugged off a couple of defenders to get to the ball first and slot it under the keeper to put us in front.  Cornard drew level from a corner when their captain had a free header and powered it in.  They were dangerous from set pieces and after this we did get to grips with their movement and kept them at bay, but from open play Cornard didn’t create a clear chance in the first half.  We had a few efforts on goal, but hit them straight at the keeper or snatched at the shot and miscued it.  About 10 minutes before the break, Max put James through and his early shot was saved well by the keeper as he tipped it around the post.  Ollie took the corner and Jake made sure he won the header and scored from close in.  It was good to be in the lead at half time and feel confident, but we knew Cornard would be determined to turn it around in the second half.

They did attack with more purpose, but our defence (minus Sam Clark this week), were working well and reducing them to long wayward shots.  The only time they really worried us was from set pieces, with Connor tipping one shot onto the crossbar.  It was quite end-to-end and we got into some good positions in and around their area without finding the final shot.  Owen tried to find James, but could have had a shot himself and Jake failed to hit the target when 1-on-1 with the keeper.  As we were having the better of the possession I felt we could see the game out and maybe extend our lead, but a little lapse in concentration and miss control gifted possession to Cornard’s best player midway in our half.  He ran on and made space to fire right into the corner to level the scores.  We battled on though; and James, Ollie, Max and Luke all had shots that were again straight at the keeper and in the last 10 minutes we really pegged Cornard back in their half.

With around 5 minutes to go a ball into the Cornard area was clearly handled by one of their defenders, but the referee (who made some poor decisions for both sides) waved play on.  This spurred us on some more and we were all over them, eventually the chance came and Jake got clear and fired straight at the keeper again.  So it finished 2-2 which is a decent result away to last year’s champions, but after that last 15 minutes where we worked so hard it was a bit disappointing not to win. It is one of those games where me might look back and think, if only we had taken one of those chances.

Bergholt Heath ‘man of the match’: Jamie Bowden – held the makeshift defence together with a determined display.

Next weeks fixtures – Sunday 15th December (last fixtures before Christmas)

  • Under 9 – No game (mid season break)
  • Under 11 vs Feering Falcon Blues,  KO 10am
  • Under 15 vs Heybridge Swifts,  KO 10.30am
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BHYFC Results 1st December and Fixtures 8th December

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 1st December

The Under 9’s are on their mid-season break until January

Stanway Villa Greens vs BHYFC Under 11s

Once again work got in the way of another Sunday for Pete the manager so the baton was handed to Ash.  Apparently the first half was a very even affair. The guys improved during the second period.  Perhaps it took the first half to warm up from the avoidable and unnecessary delay at the beginning of the game.

Just when the away fans thought they were not going to see the bag bulge a cross in found Jack who volleyed it in GOOOAAALLL!!!

Well done boys a good win and well done Ash who keeps up his 100% record.

MOM went to Jack for a great finish

BHYFC Under 15s Vs Halstead Town

In round 2 of the league cup the Under 15’s were up against Halstead, who were relegated from the A league at the end of last season. For a change, Bergholt, started brightly and in their first attack only a last ditch tackle prevented the home team taking the lead.  However from the resulting corner, Sam headed against the far post and the rebound fell nicely for him to knee the ball into the net to put Bergholt 1-0 up with only one minute on the clock.  Halstead tried to respond but most of the play was in the visitors half with their defence and ‘keeper over worked.

Most of the Bergholt attacks were either finding the keeper, who had an excellent half making at least half a dozen crucial saves, or were put out for corners. Chances came and went with James and Sam both heading over and Owen and Max having the ball saved at their feet by the ‘keeper. Mid way through the half Bergholt extended their lead when Ollie curled a free kick towards the top corner of the goal only for the ‘keeper to yet again get across and make a superb save touching the ball onto the junction of cross bar and post. The ball bounced out to the feet of Sam who gleefully put the ball back into the net for his second of the match.  Sam then scored his third – hat trick – goal by heading in from another corner.  HT: 3-0.

The second half saw a change of ‘keeper for the visitors, and it was only two minutes old when Owen made it 4-0 following up after his initial shot was cleared off the line.  Soon after, James scored his first, heading powerfully into the net when left unmarked from a corner.  He then followed this up by scoring his second when he chipped the out rushing ‘keeper after being put through by Ollie.  Max got on  the score sheet, finishing powerfully from a cut back by Ben, James completed his hat trick with a near post finish and Owen scored his second when left alone in the box to poke home from Jake’s cross.  In the last couple of minutes Leo scored 2 further goals – one set up by an unselfish Owen who passed to him rather than try to score his own hat trick, and then tapping in from almost on the line as James hit a low ball in from the left.

Final score: Bergholt Heath 11-0 Halstead Town.

Bergholt Heath ‘man of the match’: James Holden

Next weeks fixtures Sunday 8th December:

  • Under 9 – No game
  • Under 11 vs Feering Falcon Reds,  KO 10am
  • Cornard Dynamo Blues vs Under 15
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BHYFC Results 24th November and Fixtures 1st December

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 24th November

Bures United vs BHYFC Under 9s

Bergholt played their last league match before the December break against local rivals Bures United.

Bergholt started the brighter of the two teams looking to attack at all opportunities.  Having been told to shoot whenever they got a clear sight of goal, Bergholt and in particular Theo, did this when the opportunity arose.  Although none of the shots went in they certainly drew a few “oohs!” and “aahs” from the crowd.  Unfortunately, as has the been the case so many times this season, Bergholt fell behind when a rare breach of Bergholt’s penalty box saw Bures squeeze the ball in at the far post.  HT 0-1.

The second half was a more open game as both teams looked to attack and it was the visitors who struck when Oliver wriggled clear of his marker and cracked the ball with his unfavoured right foot past the keeper.  With the score back level again it was a case of to and froing with both teams stopping each other outside of their own box before launching an attack of their own.  So with the clock ticking by it was clear that which ever team scored the next goal would win the game.

Unfortunately for Bergholt it went to Bures, when Bergholt’s nemesis this season of “the attacker bursting through at speed” got through the defence and toe-poked it home past Daniel just as he was about to be tackled.  Final score: 2-1 to Bures.

Another frustrating game for Bergholt as once again the performance and possession didn’t turn into the result that they probably on balance deserved.

Bergholt Heath player of the match: Joseph Watkins – solid defending and crucial tackles

BHYFC Under 11s:  vs Lexden Saints Blues

An entertaining game with lots of end to end football saw the visitors run out 5-2 winners.  Bergholt Heath ‘player of the match’: Harvey Wilkinson

BHYFC Under 15s vs Romford Flyers Black (Essex Cup R3)

The visitors arrived at the Poors field very early, and being a big imposing team probably won the game at that point judging by the comments made by the home players as they arrived!

The game started with Romford showing a very quick and direct style against Bergholt’s more measured approach, resulting in some early chances for the visitors that luckily were wayward.

Bergholt’s first real foray into the visitors penalty area on 7 minutes resulted in a penalty as Max was brought down by the ‘keeper as he rounded him to put the ball into the net.  Ollie calmly sent the keeper the wrong way from the spot. 1-0. Romford came back into the game, but Bergholt held their own and in fact had the better of the possession and with a little more composure could have gone further ahead.  However with just 5 minutes of the half left Sam left the pitch with an injury from a high kick and as the defence was in the process of reorganising its personnel, the Romford striker got away down the right and hit a hard cross shot to the near post which unfortunately Connor could only parry into his own net.  HT: 1-1.

The second half started with Romford in far more confident mood and they took the game to Bergholt attacking in an even more direct style.  Within a couple of minutes Bergholt found themselves 2-1 down – the result of a penalty awarded when Harry got too close to the back of the striker as he run away from goal, and tripped him up.  2-1 became 3-1 within another couple of minutes when, from a corner, a Romford player headed towards goal. Connor look destined to take it in his hands but somehow the ball ended up in the net.

By now Bergholt were looking decidedly shaky with the shape of the team disappearing and speedy visiting players cutting through a dishevelled midfield almost at will. Romford scored again when Connor got his hand to another cross shot only for the winger to get in front of Aaron to tap the ball into the empty net. The fifth came when Mickey was caught too far forward which left the right winger time and space to drive into the box and hit a powerful shot into the roof of the net. The sixth and final goal came a couple of minutes from time: after a Bergholt corner, a long ball out of the visitors defence caught the Bergholt defenders outnumbered. Jamie tried to close down the striker as he got onto the bouncing ball but just before the challenge came he hit a first time shot from just outside the area into the net with Connor stranded on his penalty spot.

Final score: Bergholt Heath 1 – 6 Romford Flyers Black

Bergholt Heath man of the match: Jamie Bowden – never gave up and tried to keep the team together..

Next weeks fixtures – Sunday 1st December:

  • Under 9 – Mid Winter Break – no games until 10/01/14
  • Stanway Villa Greens vs Under 11
  • Under 15 vs Halstead Town LCR2, KO 10.30am
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BHYFC Results 17th November and Fixtures 24th November

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 17th November

Tempest vs BHYFC Under 9s

Bergholt’s first win of the season was against Tempest who were then playing in their first ever match together.  This time round Bergholt knew that they were in for a much closer game as the hosts have improved as the season progressed.

So it proved as the first half, much like last week, was even with both teams having some good possession.  Last week, Bergholt were shot-shy in the second half and so the Bergholt manager and coach asked the boys to try to change that and if they got an opportunity to then “have a crack!”.  From just outside the box, Theo did just that and his shot brushed past the post.  Despite this, and some excellent defensive work from the back three, Bergholt fell behind when Tempest broke down the right and the cross was angled such that it deceived Daniel and despite his desperate scramble to get to the ball, it sneaked in at the near post.  HT 0-1.

Needing to get an equaliser in the second half Bergholt looked to be more attacking and in particular both Ollie and Thomas H led the blues attack.  This paid off when after a scramble in the Tempest box, the ball fell to James just inside the box.  He sent a sweet left-foot curler into the corner of the net which sent the Bergholt supporters wild!
This boosted Bergholt’s confidence and Ollie burst through the Tempest defence and tested the keeper with a good effort.  But Bergholt didn’t have it all their own way and Tempest had quite some decent possession themselves.  They too came close to scoring themselves when the attacker shot across the face of the goal.  Daniel dived full length and pushed the ball round the post with an excellent save.

Not for the first time this season Bergholt were involved in a close game.  This time it ended as a draw.  FT 1-1.

Bergholt player of the match: Billy Sutton.  Super tackles and clearances.

BHYFC Under 11s vs Tempest

We met today’s opponents on the first day of the season way back in September.  Yet to this day we still await the leagues ruling as the match had to be played as a friendly.  It was good to see that Tempest had managed to keep a squad together and were starting to gel.  Our boys uncharacteristically started the first half well. There was much better passing going on with some nice interplay.  We were looking to start attacks with some through balls, they did not always come off but it was pleasing to see the boys trying to be creative.

Alex was having inspired game and a few times he broke into the box but was just too hesitant to fire off a shot. But it was from a quick throw by Al that Jonah caught the defence out and fired in the first GOOOAAALLL!

After all the good work it was a bit of a blow when our now normal defensive error allowed Tempest to equalise soon after. The guys continued to press and were soon rewarded when Jonah popped in his second GOOOAAALLL!!!

We started the second half in similar fashion with all the boys showing more composure today.  Fred was gaining ground down the right but we could not get the final ball in the box.  Things got tense soon after when a Tempest free kick popped in to equalise again.

The boys heads could have gone down at this point but they pushed on looking to retake the lead.  Eventually it came when Ty grabbed onto a defensive error and slotted it in GOOOAAALLL!!!

The game was finally made safe when on the edge of the box Jack played a nice backpass to Matt who from his trademark distance outside the area placed the ball high into the corner , GOOOAAALLL!!! of the game for me (but I’m biased).

Final score: Bergholt Heath 4-2 Tempest.

Man of the match went to Tyler who put in a good shift at the back in the first half and continued well up front in the second.

The Under 15’s had a free weekend with no match scheduled.

Next week’s fixtures Sunday 24th November:

  • Bures United vs Under 9
  • Under 11 vs Lexden Saints Blues, KO 10am
  • Under15 vs Romford Flyers (Essex Cup R3), KO 10.30am
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BHYFC Results 10th November and Fixtures 17th November

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 10th November

BHYFC Under 9s vs Colchester Villa Yellows

Following the Remembrance Day minute’s silence, which was impeccably observed by both teams and supporters alike, the match kicked-off with Bergholt looking to avenge a very close one-nil defeat by the visitors Colchester Villa Yellows only a few weeks ago.

As with the first match, the teams were both evenly matched and most of the game was played in the middle third of the pitch with Bergholt looking to pass their way through Villa, whilst Villa looked to pump the ball forward to their lone striker.  Chances were limited, however Bergholt had the best two opportunities of the half.  Firstly when James made a great run down the left, which saw him put a delightful ball across the box which found Thomas H alone at the far post.  Unfortunately his first time effort went just wide.  The second fell to Theo who was all lined up to hit a shot, but was superbly tackled by the Villa defender.

Bergholt’s defence, in particular Eddie and Joseph, were keeping the Villa attack at bay and if any chances did arise, Daniel was able to handle them with ease.  HT 0-0.

The second half was very much like the first with both teams cancelling each other out in the middle of the pitch and it was clear that one goal would decide it.  With five minutes to go, the Villa tactic paid off when a long ball to their striker saw him burst through the Bergholt defence and then round Daniel.  The goal-bound effort was too far in front of him to head it clear so the covering defender Thomas L put out his hand to push it around the post.  Penalty to Villa!

Having been denied a certain goal, the Villa striker took the penalty himself and hit such a hard shot low into the corner of the net that Daniel had no chance to save it.  The last remaining minutes were played out in the same fashion as the first 35 minutes and the game finished with the same scoreline as the first meeting.  FT 0-1.

Bergholt Heath player of the match:  Eddie Davies – lots of great tackles, clearances and man-marking.

Wivenhoe Town vs BHYFC Under 11s

As is the usual way we started this encounter very lacklustre.

Despite asking the boys to replicate the last 15 minutes of the previous weeks game, we started the match like a bag of spent fireworks.  Lack of tackling conviction, bad passing and statuesque movement meant we gave Wivenhoe the advantage.  They very nearly took the lead when a goalmouth scramble was just about cleared in time.

Once again the second half was far better we spread apart  and the passing improved. Eventually after several attacks Matt took on a couple players and slotted the ball home, GOOOAAALLL!!!

This spurred the boys on more and they looked far more confident . Numerous chances came. Fred made  himself space on the right a couple of times but his shots were just not enough.  Jack had the ball four yards out but got caught in his feet.

Eventually Tyler made a good run and pushed it confidently home GOOOAAALLL!!!

Tom had one effort go over and then Jonah’s shot cannoned off the keeper into the net GOOOAAALLL!!!

With the game safe we pushed Ben upfront which left us short at the back.  Nat , Dan and Harv coped well and we finished 3-0 victorious.

Man of the Match went to Fred for a much better second half performance

BHYFC Under 15s vs Clacton

The Under 15’s took on FC Clacton at home on the Poors Field with a later than usual kick off to allow for the clean up operation from the fireworks the night before – which had been completed impressively before the teams arrived.  In view of the away fixture when Clacton dominated the first half only for Bergholt to come back strongly in the second to win by the odd goal, the manager was keen to stress the importance of starting well against a team no doubt looking for revenge.  From the first whistle it appeared to be an open game with both teams striving to push forward and score.

The Bergholt defence generally coped well with the Clacton strikers – although they needed one goal line clearance – and the home attack was pressurising the visitors into some hasty clearances.  After 15 minutes Bergholt took the lead via a free kick from Max into the top corner.  Back came Clacton but they were starting to struggle against a team now well in command.  James Holden headed over from a corner and there were several half chances as Bergholt piled on the pressure.  The second came when Max took another free kick from just inside his own half and Sam got free of his marker to direct the ball into the net with a deft touch on its way past him.  HT: 2-.0.

The second half was only a couple of minutes old when Bergholt scored their third.  A superb piece of play involving Jake and then Max sent James on his way and he held off the defender to fire past the keeper. Within the space of a few more minutes,Bergholt scored their fourth when Max played another ball over the top and James.  By now Clacton were looking like they wanted the match to end, having almost no interest in the game.  Max scored his second and Bergholt’s fifth before the manager decided to give both central defenders a break and take the opportunity to look at other combinations that maybe required in future.  This brought the visitors back to life and they caused a few awkward moments towards the end of the game but failed to seriously trouble Conner in the Bergholt goal.

Final score: Bergholt Heath 5 – 0   FC Clacton.

Bergholt man of the max: Max Booth – another all action display – either scoring or setting up all 5 goals!

Next weeks fixtures – Sunday 17th November:

  • Tempest vs Under 9
  • Under 11 vs Tempest, KO 10.00am
  • Under 15 – No Game
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BHYFC Results 3rd November and Fixtures 10th November

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 3rd November

Reed Hall Sentinels vs BHYFC Under 9s

After the past couple of weeks where Bergholt Heath Under 9’s had hit the self-destruct button, the manager gave the boys a stiff talking to before the game about this and how to avoid repeating it for a third week.

With this fresh in their minds Bergholt started well, playing against the wind in the first half. Both teams were cancelling each out in the middle of the pitch and clear cut chances were limited to one each, with Sentinels hitting the side netting whilst Theo nearly got his birthday goal but was denied by an excellent block by the Sentinels defender. Sentinels probably just shaded the half due to having the advantage of the wind. HT 0-0.

Bergholt then had the wind in the second half and were asked to use this to shoot on sight. This they did but found the Sentinels keeper in good form saving well from Theo, Thomas and James. Meanwhile the defence were having a really solid game and Daniel’s handling and command of his area was excellent. The midfield were also doing their duties in defence as well as in attack, something that had been missing recently, demonstrated by James who, when the Reed Hall player wriggled through the defence, came in with a brilliant goal saving tackle.

Bergholt had the lion’s share of possession and goal-scoring chances in the second half but just couldn’t score and the game ended goalless. FT 0-0. A good result which steadied the ship!

Bergholt Heath player of the match: Daniel Jackson – super handling and distribution of the ball.

BHYFC Under 11s vs Colchester Villa Blues

The under 11’s were the only team at home this week, to second in the table Colchester Villa Blues. It was a open game with plenty of chances, but both keepers were in excellent form with neither team able to find a way past their opponents. The only goal came with Colchester Villa were awarded a dubious penalty for hand ball and the striker stepped up to score leaving the Bergholt players down hearted at the end of a match they did not deserve to lose.

Player of the match: Matthew Sanderson.

Elmden Rovers vs BHYFC Under 15s

Our Under 15’s, currently bottom of the A league, were looking to end their miserable start to the league season away to second bottom Elmden Rovers. Bergholt won the toss and chose to play with the strong wind that was blowing almost straight down the pitch.

The team were pumped up for the match following some strong words from the manager after last weeks loss to Bures, and the early exchanges were almost entirely in the home sides’ half, where they were defending manfully against a fluid Bergholt attack, aided by the wind. Bergholt took the lead after 15 minutes when Owen got free on the left and after dummying the defender, rolled the ball back for Ben to coolly place in the corner of the net. Just over 10 minutes later Ollie got on the score sheet when he waltzed through the home defence to place another shot low into the net. Bergholt were clearly on top with the manager calling for more goals to capitalise on the wind, and they had further chances with Luke hitting the angle of crossbar and post with a cleaver flick from outside of the area, and Jamie having a shot cleared off the line following a corner. In addition there were two claims for penalties that the referee strangely gave as free kicks to the home team. HT: Elmden 0-2 Bergholt Heath.

The second half started with the away supporters wondering whether Elmden could use the wind advantage to change the flow of the game, which had been decidedly one sided. Within a few minutes of the restart this idea was dispelled, as Ben was given the freedom of the home penalty area – so much so he looked round for the offside flag – to place another shot low into the goal for his second of the match. Another few minutes and Bergholt scored their fourth goal – a free kick from Max finding the top corner. Elmden were trying to use the wind by clearing the ball long and high then chasing behind, but the Bergholt defence was fairly comfortable throughout, although there were a few anxious moments from two Elmden in-swinging corners. With 10 minutes remaining, Bergholt scored their 5th and final goal when Max hit another shot from the edge of the area, picking out the other top corner!

Full time: Elmden Rovers 0-5 Bergholt Heath.

Bergholt Heath ‘man of the match’: Max Booth – all action display both in midfield and then up front.

Next weeks fixtures – Sunday 9th November:

  • Under 9 vs Colchester Villa Yellows KO 11.00am
  • Wivenhoe Town vs Under 11
  • Under 15 vs FC Clacton KO 12 noon
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BHYFC Results 27th October and Fixtures for 3rd November

Bergholt Heath Youth Football ClubBergholt Heath YFC – Results 27th October

BHYFC Under 9s vs Long Melford Colts

The Under 9s were at home to Long Melford Colts and after last week’s 6 minutes of madness lost them the match, they were hoping history wouldn’t repeat itself. However despite a promising start 3 goals in quick succession in the first half killed this game as a contest.  However the boys battled hard to get back in the game and created a number of chances with James and Ollie in particular spearheading the attack.  However the visitors defence, together with their goalkeeper, held firm.

The second half saw Bergholt continue to try and get on the score sheet and they came close on two occasions when both Thomas’ having shots well saved by the Colts ‘keeper.  Once again though, Bergholt fell to the sucker punch when a pile driver of a shot seemed to go straight through Daniel in goal.  Full time: Bergholt Heath 0-4 Long Melford Colts.

Bergholt Heath player of the match: James Pomphrett – some super attacking play.

Halstead Town Reds vs BHYFC Under 11s

The Under 11s completed their double header away to Halstead Town Reds looking to continue their play from last week’s game.

Bergholt started well and had good possession and the only thing missing was the final ball as the Halstead defence closed the Bergholt boys down very quickly.  At the back the Bergholt defensive trio of Nathan, Dan and Ben didn’t let anything past them making Harvey in goal a virtual bystander. Eventually the pressure paid off and after a good through ball from Jonah, Tyler raced through and poked the ball home. Not long after and Tyler had another attempt and scored another goal to make the half time score 2-0, although the manager was apparently not too happy with the passing.

Instructions for the second half were clear: pass to Bergholt team mates!  The pattern of play generally followed the first with the Bergholt defence communicating well and pushing up to add weight to the attack. Fred had a chance when the ball was played up to him in the box but unfortunately he took too long and the chance went. Then another great through ball by Matt found Tyler in space but the keeper quickly came out to save. However the ball rebounded nicely to Jonah who made no mistake to make it 3-0.   There was not long to go in the game when Ben pushed up on the left, collected the ball and coolly finished for 4-0.   The Under 11’s first clean sheet of the season!

Bergholt Heath man of the match: Jonah for some good passing and his efforts in the last few matches.

BHYFC Under 15s vs Bures united

Finally, our Under 15’s were at home to top of the league Bures United. Unfortunately yet again Bergholt started slowly and the visitors scored with their first attack when the visiting winger left the Bergholt right back for dead and, with the Bergholt midfield static watching the game, the cross was easily converted against an outnumbered Bergholt defence.  1-0 in the first minute!  However with their own first attack of the match, Bergholt equalised. A long diagonal ball forward caught the Bures defence out at it carried in the strong wind, and James was left all alone at the far post to easily finish against a stranded keeper.  Everyone expected the equaliser to spur Bergholt on, but they were looking very shaky and Bures seemed to manage to capitalise on every little error and from a series of small errors they took the lead again in the 10th minute when a misdirected pass spun into the path of the striker who surprisingly beat Connor at his near pot from the edge of the area.  Despite Bergholt’s best efforts, nothing seemed to fall right with the final ball always seeming to go the opposite place to where the Bergholt player was.

Half time 1-2.

The second half was only a few minutes old when Bures increased their lead when a speculative effort from outside the box seemed to catch Connor unawares and the ball, aided by the increasingly strong wind, sailed over him into the roof of the net.  The home side were now looking a little disjointed as nothing seemed to be going right, and despite having a few half chances, it was no surprise when Bures scored their 4th mid way through the half.  The Bergholt manager immediately made a change, going to 3-at-the-back and pushing Sam into midfield. Almost immediately the extra man further up the pitch worked as Owen got free to play a ball across the box for James to score his second from close range.  However, against the run of play yet another miss-placed pass at the back saw the visiting striker put through to beat Connor easily for Bures 5th goal from just 6 shots! Back came Bergholt who were increasingly finding the passion that had been lacking earlier in the match, and the Bures goal appeared to be under siege for minutes at a time.  Max scored the Bergholt third from a free kick but despite play being camped inside the visitors half, there was no further way past a resolute, if panicky, Bures defence.

Final score Bergholt Heath 3-5 Bures United.

Bergholt Heath man of the match: Max Booth – all action midfield display

Next week’s fixtures Sunday 3rd November:

  • Reed Hall Sentinels Vs Under 9
  • Under 11 Vs Colchester Villa Blues, k.o. 10am
  • Elmden Rovers Vs Under 15
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Tom Bowdidge – BHYFC mark their respect on 20th October

Tom Bowdidge
Tom Bowdidge – passed away Friday 18th October

Tom Bowdidge – sadly missed

Firstly this week it is with great sadness that Bergholt Heath has to report that one of our ex-players, Tom Bowdidge, passed away on Friday morning after a brave fight against cancer, at just 19 years old. Tom will be greatly missed by all those that knew him around the village and beyond.  As a mark of respect all three Bergholt Heath teams wore black armbands during this weekend’s matches.  Tom started a cancer charity “Teens Against Cancer Baby” last year and spent the last year of his life bravely raising money for his charity at every opportunity. Should anyone wish to donate to the charity in Tom’s memory, please visit http://www.justgiving.com/Tom-Bowdidge.

The following message is on Tom’s Facebook page (linked above and from picture):

We have organised Tom’s funeral now. It will be on Wednesday 30th October at 12 noon in St Mary the Virgin Church, New Church Road, West Bergholt, Colchester, CO6 3JF.  It was Tom’s wish that he had a massive funeral so we would be delighted to welcome as many of you as are able to attend.  We would like it to be a time when we mourn his loss but also celebrate his life. Dress code will be dark but we hope people will wear a touch of blue which was Tom’s favourite colour.
With our love as always xxxx

On to the football:

BHYFC Results 20th October

Brooklands vsBHYFC Under 9s

Bergholt Heath Under 9s faced their toughest game of the season today against unarguably the best team in the league, Brooklands.

Before the game started the Bergholt team put on black armbands in respect of Tom. After the torrential rain that preceded it, the game kicked off in sunshine and began brightly for both teams with Bergholt matching the hosts for possession.  Brooklands then started to take charge of the game, but try as they might they could not break through the Bergholt defence with the boys battling for everything and if they did get any shots on target, then Daniel’s handling was faultless.

For all their performance Bergholt fell behind with a well-taken goal.  This didn’t get the boys disheartened and they tried to get back on level terms and Thomas L, with his usual once-a-game long range effort, came close to finding the net but the keeper got down well for the save. With the half-time whistle imminent, Brooklands went further ahead when a powerful long range fizzed right through a crowded penalty area and with Daniel unsighted, found the corner of the Bergholt net.  HT 0-2.

As with the first half, the beginning was fairly even with Bergholt almost getting on the score sheet but James’ effort was just held by the Brooklands keeper.  However, minutes 30-36 will be 6 minutes that Bergholt will want to forget.  Once again, Bergholt’s luck deserted them as Brooklands extended their lead when a deflected shot caught out an unlucky Daniel.  From this, another 3 goals rattled in quick succession as Brooklands tried their luck from outside the box – each shot gave Daniel no chance.  The last 4 minutes, Bergholt managed to regroup themselves and see the game out without further loss.  FT 0-6. Although Brooklands were the better team and deserved their win, the scoreline was particularly harsh on Bergholt who played really well.  Credit should go to the defence today who were superb and didn’t deserve to be on the end of that scoreline.

Bergholt Heath player of the match: Thomas Lloyd – a captain’s performance with some excellent tackling and energy.

BHYFC UNder 11s vs Halstead Town Reds

The Under 11s were the only team at home this week and comfortably beat Halstead Town Reds 5-1 with goals coming from Jonah Murray and Richard Frost with two each and one more from Tyler Webb.

Stanway Rovers vs BHYFC Under 15s

Following last weeks league cup win, the Under 15s were in round two action of the Essex Cup, but luckily  – with the whole of Essex to be drawn against – their away match was only a couple of miles up the road to play Stanway Rovers, their local rivals in the A league!

Bergholt started slowly, which seems to be a trend so far this season, and in the first 10 minutes they allowed the home side to have several tester shots at goal – but luckily Connor comfortably handled anything that came his way.  Just before the quarter of an hour mark Bergholt got forward to create something for the first time in the match.   Stanway gave away a free kick on the left, Ollie Sanderson played the ball diagonally into the box, James Holden got a flick on and Sam Clark finished at the far post – only to find that the linesman had raised his flag!

However Bergholt were not to be denied and within a minute another attack saw a corner conceded and Sam rose high at the far post to loop his header back over the Stanway ‘keeper and into the roof of the net.  These two quick fire attacks and the goal spurred Bergholt into life and they restricted the hosts to long range attempts for the rest of the half.  Half time: Stanway Rovers 0 -1 Bergholt Heath

The second half started in completely the opposite manner to the first and within 2 minutes Bergholt were further ahead.  Leo Tiffney picked the ball up centrally just outside the Stanway area.  Owen Bernhardt ran in from the right and called for the ball to be played through, Leo picked him out superbly and Owen comfortably slotted the ball into the far corner.  A brilliantly worked goal.  Within 2 minutes Bergholt scored their third goal.  James chased a long ball into the left of the area and under his pressure the defender handled the bouncing ball. Penalty.  With Ollie now off the pitch resting having been ill during the week, Captain Jamie Bowden took the spot kick and sent the ‘keeper the wrong way to score his now customary goal against Stanway Rovers.

The game was now being controlled by Bergholt, however the hosts got on the score sheet with around 10 minutes remaining.  An attack was cleared into the midfield but was stopped by an alert Stanway player who immediately played it back.  The ball evaded the Bergholt midfielders and as Sam came across to cover the obvious gap, the striker flicked it though to his partner who had the run on the blind side of Jamie and he finished well as Connor tried to close the angle. However this was the one and only clear cut opportunity for the hosts and Bergholt saw the match out comfortably to move into round three of the Essex cup, when they will be at home to the Romford Flyers.  Final score: Stanway Rovers 1 – 3 Bergholt Heath.  Bergholt man of the match: Jamie Bowden.

Next week’s matches Sunday 27th October:

  • Under 9 vs Long Melford, KO 11am
  • Halstead Town Reds vs Under 11
  • Under 15 vs Bures, KO 10.30am