‘‘OSSETT PRODUCE ANOTHER STUNNING PERFORMANCE TO END SEASON ON A HIGH”
SUNDAY 16th MAY
OSSETT TOWN B (6) 13 V HECKMONDWIKE (1) 3
SCORERS: MO SIDAT 4, SAM PASHLEY 3, ADAM HORSFALL 4, WILL DANN, OG
MAN OF THE MATCH: ADAM HORSFALL
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town played host to Heckmondwike whose previous encounter had ended in a thrilling 6-5 victory for Ossett.
From the kick off both sides looked lively and it was Heckmondike who took the game to Ossett and the back four of Liam and Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Alex Hall were having to be alert and keeper Tom Rogers made a couple of early saves.
Soon the midfield pairing of Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale were starting to take control. Within five minutes a misunderstanding in the Heckmondike defense allowed Mo Sidat to open the score. Two minutes later Ryan White was fouled at the edge of the area, up stepped Adam Horsfall and he placed the kick into the bottom corner to make it two. Ossett were now in control of the game as both Will Dann and Adam Horsfall on either wing were finding space to run at the defense and play the front two into shooting opportunities.
Within seven minutes Ossett found themselves 3 up, when Will saw Sam in space, chipped over the ball for Sam to hit a curler into the top corner. To be fair to Heckmondwike they did not let their heads drop, and five minutes later had pulled the score back to 3-1. Ossett’s response was almost immediate as Jack Lonsdale picked up the ball in midfield, passed to Sam Pashley, Sam played a great ball into Mo Sidat who then beat two defenders to score.
Within two minutes Mo scored a great individual goal, picking up the ball in midfield and running to the goal and slotting into the bottom corner to score his hat trick.
As the half drew to a close it was Ryan White who saw Adam Horsfall in some space, Adam then beat two defenders to bury the ball into the bottom corner. Again Heckmondike pressed but found Martin Preston and Waqas Awad in an uncompromising mood. The half drew to a close with Ossett in total control. Could Heckmondwike pull it back?
The second half saw Jazz Ahmed replace Will Dann, and Tom Hobson replace Alex Hall. Ossett’s tempo never wavered with Ryan White, Adam Horsfall and Mo Sidat going close. Within 5 minutes Sam Pashley made it 7 after some great work from Adam Horsfall. Adam this time scored himself, showing great skill in chipping the keeper to make it 8-1. Ossett’s ninth came from an own goal scored after some immense pressure from Mo Sidat.
Another substitution saw Liam Preston make way for Chris Scott, and Chris was soon in the action seeing Mo Sidat in space for Mo to hit the post. Martin Preston and Jack Lonsdale now made way for Will Dann and Alex Hall. Again Heckmondwike pressed and within five minutes had managed to make the score 9-3. Ossett now re-grouped and within two minutes made the score 10, from a great header from Adam Horsfall.
Ossett now took control again as both Sam and Mo went looking to equal Ossett’s all time goal scoring record, and it was Sam Pashley who hit Town’s eleventh and his ninetieth of the season. Then it was Mo Sidat, not to outdone running from halfway to score his ninetieth of the season and ossett’s twelfth. As the game drew to a close there was time for Will Dann to pop up unopposed to finish the match 13-3.
This was another superb Ossett performance to round off a fantastic season finishing in second place. Man of the match went to Adam Horsfall who scored four goals and whose strength and skill was a joy to watch. I know I speak for all the club in wishing Adam all the success he deserves when he plays for Ossett Town A next season.
I could not finish the report without mentioning the 90 goals each scored by the awesome Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat equaling the Ossett Town record.
Every player involved in the Ossett Town squad should be proud of their own achievements this season and the way the spirit of the team has made such a formidable squad.
Well done Town roll on next season.
"TOWN COME FROM BEHIND TO WIN THE OSSETT DERBY"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3 OSSETT TOWN B 4 – 1 OSSETT ALBION A
Scorers: Mo Sidat, Chris Scott, Jaz Ahmed, Sam Pashley
Man of the Match: Jack Lonsdale & Ryan White
12th May 2010
Report by Brian Hobson
Town recovered from an early setback to take the Ossett bragging rights with a comfortable win over an under-strength Albion side.
Town started well, and the pattern for the night was established in the 2nd minute when the Albion keeper had to save bravely as Mo Sidat latched onto Sam Pashley’s header. With Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale controlling the centre of the park, Town had most of the possession and several chances came and went. A fine move between Adam Horsfall, Liam Preston and Ryan White led to Mo Sidat shooting just wide, Sam Pashley fired wide after being sent clear by Ryan White’s excellent pass, then a superb Pashley shot rebounded off the left-hand post.
Just as in last week’s game, Town had made all the early running, only for their opponents to snatch the lead with their first attack and shot. This time a powerful effort from 20 metres in the 9th minute proved just too good for unlucky keeper Tom Rogers.
Town had to hold their nerve, keep their composure and not lose faith in their ability. They did this superbly, and took just 3 minutes to get back on level terms. Sam Pashley’s brilliant run took him past 3 defenders, and when his shot was saved Mo Sidat was on hand to turn in the rebound.
Despite being short of a few regulars, Albion were well-organised and proved a difficult nut for Town to crack, especially when Town tried to go through the middle. Wide players Adam Horsfall and Chris Scott had more success on the wings, and when they got the ball Town looked their most threatening. Mo Sidat had a shot saved from Scott’s corner, Ryan White hit the bar and had a good shot saved, then Sam Pashley broke through the middle and rounded the keeper, but he was forced too far wide and the chance went.
At the back, Town weren’t threatened very often, but the back 4 of Liam & Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Alex Hall were always cool under pressure and covered for each other whenever there was any danger. Tom Rogers commanded his area well, giving confident calls to his defenders whenever he claimed the ball.
4 minutes before the break Town’s dominance paid off when they took the lead. Adam Horsfall played a good cross to the far post where Chris Scott ghosted in and slotted it home. There was still time for Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley to force terrific saves from the Albion keeper before the interval as Town looked to press home their control of the game.
Town were quickly back in their stride in the 2nd half, and the Albion keeper had to be out smartly to foil Jack Lonsdale as he got on the end of Sam Pashley’s fine pass. Will Dann and Tom Hobson came on and quickly formed a good partnership down the left, with Dann battling well, getting forward when possible and tracking back when necessary. With Jaz Ahmed now on the right wing, Town kept Albion pegged back in their own half and barely able to get anywhere near Town’s goal.
Ahmed wasted no time getting involved, having a shot saved following Ryan White’s excellent ball, then making it 3-1 on 50 minutes as he turned in Sam Pashley’s brilliant run and cross.
Adam Horsfall had a fine shot that went just over, Liam Preston headed Ryan White’s corner just wide and Sam Pashley drew another fine save from the keeper following Horsfall’s marvellous pass. With 10 minutes remaining the game was finally settled when Pashley escaped 2 challenges before squeezing it in from a tight angle.
Sam Pashley, Waqas Awad and Adam Horsfall all had shots well saved in the last 10 minutes, and if it hadn’t been for the excellent Albion keeper, Town may well have got into double figures in this game.
This was a good solid performance from a Town side too strong for their opponents on the night. There was some good football played, but Town were not afraid to battle for the ball against their spirited local rivals when necessary. Man of the match was shared by the heartbeat of the midfield, Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale, who ensured Town dominated possession from first minute to last.
HUDDERSFIELD UNDER 14’S LEAGUE DIVISION THREE
‘‘OSSETT TOWN HIT TWO HUNDRED GOALS FOR SEASON AS THE DYNAMOS ARE DIMMED’’
SUNDAY 9TH MAY
OSSETT TOWN B 24 (11) V DALTON DYNAMOS 0
SCORERS: MO SIDAT 9, SAM PASHLEY 8, ADAM HORSFALL 4, ALEX HALL, JACK LONSDALE, RYAN WHITE
MAN OF THE MATCH: SAM PASHLEY, MO SIDAT
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town traveled away to Dalton Dynamos, whose ground is just a stones throw from the Galpharm Stadium, and produced a display which would have given the Huddersfield Town scouts plenty to think about.
Town started with their usual 4-4-2 formation, with Tom Rogers in goal, Alex Hall, Waqas Awad, Liam Preston and Martin Preston in defense, Adam Horsfall and Chris Scott on the wings, Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale took the center midfield, Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley were up front.
With a short pitch and the Dalton defense playing on the half way line, Ossett found it hard to settle and were getting caught off side. In the center Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale were soon taking control. Sam Pashley, Adam Horsfall and Mo Sidat up front had spotted that the defense had no answer to their pace. Within five minutes Sam picked up the ball from half way, ran the half of the field to score into the bottom corner.
Another two minutes later Mo Sidat had beaten the offside trap to make it two. On such a short pitch the ball was soon in Ossett’s half, but the defensive line was in total control with Waqas Awad in superb form. The away side were now piling on the pressure and on twelve minutes Sam Pashley made it three with a superb shot from 25 meters out.
Osset’s forth came from a great piece of individual skill from Adam Horsfall who beat four defenders before finding room to score. The next five minutes saw Ossett score another two. First Mo Sidat took the ball from the half way line ran through the defense to score, then Sam Pashley saw the keeper off his line and chipped in a goal from the half way line.
Ossett now made some changes with Tom Hobson, Will Dann and Jazz Ahmed coming on for Adam Horsfall, Liam Preston and Alex Hall. The Town defense were still having to be on their guard as Dalton were not giving up, and no Ossett player was giving them an inch. The next five minutes saw Town score another three, as first Sam Pashley, then Mo Sidat and then Sam again left the keeper reeling.
As half time approached Ossett scored another two goals as Mo Sidat ran from half way and then the inspirational captain Ryan White took his well-deserved goal. The second half kicked off, could Ossett keep up the dominant performance of the first half? The answer came within a minute as Adam Horsfall had scored again and this was to be the pattern of the second half as Ossett played as a unit and never eased up. Mo Sidat then scored two great goals within two minutes after some excellent through balls from first Jazz Ahmed and then Will Dann.
Mo then turned provider for Adam Horsfall to get his hat trick, and within two minutes had found the goal again. Ossett’s seventeenth came from another superb team goal. Waqas Awad won the ball in defense, saw Martin Preston in space, Martin passed the ball to Will Dann, Will Dann dinked the ball over the Dalton defense to Sam Pashley who scored from 25 meters out, Breathtaking! Mo Sidat then made it eighteen to equal Ossett’s season’s best result, could they beat it? The answer was yes as inevitably Mo scored to make it nineteen. As the half pressed on it was Jack Lonsdale who popped up to score the twentieth. Within a minute of the restart Alex Hall scored his first goal of the season to make it twenty-one. As full time approached Sam Pashley scored twice and Mo Sidat scored again to make the final score twenty-four-nil.
This was Ossett Town at their very best, and at times were mesmerizing. The man of the match went to front two Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat for their master class in how to score goals.
Ossett Town B have now secured second place in the league with three matches still to play, well done lads, fantastic.
Sunday 9 May
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 7 Hepworth Utd 0
Player of the Match – Louis Spurr
Goalscorers – Joe Turfrey (3), Daniel Wright (2) and Connor Daniel (2)
Friday 7 May
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 4 Dalton Dynamoes 1
Player of the Match – Joe Turfrey
Goalscorers – Dominic Sykes (3) and Connor Daniel
Thursday 6th May 2010
"A LACKLUSTRE PERFORMANCE BUT A DESERVED WIN"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
OSSETT TOWN B 4 – 1 SILKSTONE
Scorers: Martin Preston, Adam Horsfall, Sam Pashley, Mo Sidat
Man of the Match: Liam Preston
Report by Brian Hobson
Ossett recovered from conceding an early goal to finish comfortable winners without ever really hitting top form.
On a bitterly cold evening that felt more like December than May, Town made the early running, and in the first 5 minutes Sam Pashley’s header from Martin Preston’s free-kick was saved, Mo Sidat headed Ryan White’s excellent corner just wide and Adam Horsfall’s shot following a good Sam Pashley pass was cleared off the line.
Silkstone had their first attack in the 6th minute, and you might guess they took the lead from it with a good finish after Town allowed a ball to bounce that should have been cleared.
Ossett were rocked back on their heels for a while; players began shouting at each other when they should have been pulling together and supporting each other, and while they dominated possession and territory, the usual attacking incisiveness was missing.
A stroke of luck after 10 minutes changed the mood. Adam Horsfall chased a long ball and got to the ball just before the onrushing keeper. Although Horsfall was going away from goal and may not have even kept it in, the keeper’s trip brought him down and it had to be a penalty. Up stepped Martin Preston to slot it home in the bottom right hand corner for his first goal of the season.
Town started to pass it around better now, and produced some moves which reminded us all what they are capable of, though it was frustratingly only in patches. Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale were winning the midfield battles, Chris Scott and Adam Horsfall were marauding down the wings and Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat worried the defence with their pace and quality. Horsfall in particular was giving the opposition a torrid time every time he got the ball, and chances continued to come, with White having a shot saved following a fine solo run before Horsfall headed Scott’s corner wide.
On 20 minutes Town got their noses in front with a fine goal. Sam Pashley made a brilliant run down the right, got to the byeline and pulled it back for Adam Horsfall to volley in. Within 2 minutes it was nearly a case of déjà vu as Pashley made an identical run but this time Ryan White’s shot was saved by the impressive visiting keeper.
A minute later Ossett got their reward for their good football with another excellent goal. This time it was Chris Scott who made a run down the left wing and his perfect cross was headed home powerfully by Sam Pashley.
At the back Town didn’t have too much to threaten them at this stage, but it was impressive the way they all covered for each other, and every time a forward got past a Town defender there was another one there to mop up. With Waqas Awad and Martin Preston holding the line well, Alex Hall and Liam Preston were able to push up and support the wide players to good effect. The only time Town looked in any danger was when they pushed a little too far forward for the keeper’s kicks, which from the start were always longer than average.
Town continued to push for another goal before the break. Sam Pashley and Adam Horsfall both had shots saved in the scramble that followed Mo Sidat’s fine run and cross, and Pashley’s shot was saved after Adam Horsfall had skipped past 4 opponents. Ossett’s best move of the game saw crisp passing from back to front but culminated in another save from Ryan White’s shot, and Jack Lonsdale also had a shot saved by the inspired Silkstone keeper.
A minute before the break Town got their 4th goal. Adam Horsfall crossed to the far post and Mo Sidat missed with his attempted header, but the ball bounced up for him to control it and tuck it away.
With half-time substitutes Will Dann and Jaz Ahmed working tirelessly down the flanks and Tom Hobson in impressive form from the off at left-back, Ossett carried on after the break where they had left off. They dominated possession, looked secure at the back but again too many moves came to grief on the edge of the box as Town struggled to find the killer ball.
The longer the half went on, the more they resorted to shooting from distance, and it was always going to take something special to beat this keeper from there. To be fair, Silkstone should take a lot of the credit for stifling Ossett; they showed a determination not to suffer the kind of defeat Town inflicted on them a few weeks earlier. It was also difficult for Town to establish any rhythm as the manager took advantage of the comfortable scoreline to shuffle the pack a few times and give everybody a breather. With 4 games in 8 days coming up that was a sensible policy.
Town did create chances in the 2nd period though. Sam Pashley fired just wide following an excellent adam Horsfall pass, Ryan White had a shot saved, Horsfall’s shot was deflected wide, Pashley made a superb run but elected to cross it rather than having a go himself, and Jack Lonsdale had a shot saved following an excellent team move down the left.
Silkstone never gave up and Town’s defence always had to be on their toes. Fortunately Tom Rogers was well positioned to save a rare shot, and Martin Preston was on hand with a marvellous challenge when they looked like getting through.
This was a strange game to watch. Ossett showed in spells just how good they are, which made the periods when they lacked their normal fluency even more frustrating. It says much for the quality of this side that they can dominate possession, have nearly all the chances, put some good moves together and win by 3 goals without hitting the form they are capable of. The long grass didn’t help, but Town have played better on worse surfaces than this! Still, not long now until the end of the season and a well-earned break – let’s see where we end up.
Liam Preston took the man of the match award for a strong performance in defence, hardly letting anything get past him all night
Wednesday 5 May
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 1 Brighouse Town 7
Player of the Match – Joe Turfrey
Goalscorer – Joe Turfrey
After The Lord Mayor’s Show (Gawthorpe Style)
Saturday: the parade through Gawthorpe; the crowds out celebrating Town’s two final appearances. The Secker Cup gleaming, the players looking fine in their bright red costumes waving from the open top bus. Stomachs churning with greasy food after surviving the waltzer. Keen anticipation of the League Cup final to come...
Wednesday: the brass band had walked over the hill, their marching beat faded away; the floats parked up, the weathered bunting tatty in the wind; the Maypole Queen and her attendants had folded away their gowns. Extra time heartache as well as aching limbs from Sunday; brasso required for The Secker Cup...
The fantastic highs of their last two games followed by Wednesday’s heavy defeat against an excellent Brighouse. Ossett have shown on many occasions this season the high standards their football can reach. However, this game was definitely one to chalk up to experience and move on. Joe Turfrey deservedly won player of the match for his work rate and determination, as he kept on taking the game to Brighouse and capped off with a great finish over the keeper from well outside the box. The players worked hard but their usual spark was left somewhere on Gawthorpe High Street. Well done to Brighouse for a top performance which took advantage of any lapses from Ossett.
Sunday 2 May
Huddersfield Junior Football League U14 Cup Final
Deighton 3 Ossett Town Juniors A 1 aet
Goalscorer – Daniel Wright
Player of the Match – Alex Campbell
Extra Time Puts Cup Out Of Reach
Ossett’s run to the League Cup Final showed their ability to perform at the top level and they were now up against in-form Deighton, current Division One leaders. Ossett’s second final in three days tested their resolve as every player showed total commitment to the cause.
The tempo of the game was evident from the beginning as Ashley Young put in a strong tackle to win the ball for Ossett. A bright start saw Daniel Wright run through the middle and lay on Connor Daniel, who continued the thrust towards goal, where the Deighton keeper did well to collect the ball from his feet. Deighton’s response had the Ossett defence working hard to keep them out. Alex Campbell was called into action punching away a corner and then pushing a free kick over the bar. Dominic Sykes’ strength was providing a solid base to the midfield as Connor Daniel looked to break through Deighton’s ranks. Dominic Sykes then showed lovely control to send through Daniel Wright to stretch Deighton, only for the ball to run too far.
Ben Fox was having plenty of involvement clearing the ball as Deighton pressed forward. Alex Campbell pushed a low drive around the post and then showed his bravery at the feet of the attackers. A series of Deighton corners kept Ossett on the back foot. Billy Cundall was getting stuck in, helping protect the Ossett backline. Aaron Potter was working hard up and down the right and looking for an opportunity to play balls into the box. Ossett’s midfield increased its possession as they looked for the combination to unlock Deighton’s defence. Connor Daniel and Joe Turfrey linked up to allow Daniel Wright to catch a volley which flew wide. Alex Campbell was reading the game well and another excellent close range save kept things even. Joe Turfrey and Dominic Sykes both used their strength and skilful left feet to manoeuvre the ball into position where Dominic Sykes sent in a powerful ball to the far post – Daniel Wright challenged for it and as it broke was able to knock it in from close range: 1-0 Ossett. Deighton responded and Alex Campbell pushed the ball out where Louis Spurr showed his alertness to complete the clearance.
The Ossett back four were all tackling, heading and competing to keep out Deighton’s threat with Dominic Sykes dropping back to help out. Ashley Young and Daniel Sheen had to be alert at all times and Louis Spurr and Ben Fox were kept busy down the flanks. This saw Ossett through to half time – a precious lead based on brave defending and excellent goalkeeping as much as clinical finishing.
Deighton were straight back into their stride with a determination to get back onto level terms. An Ossett break involving Daniel Sheen, Joe Turfrey and Charlie Mountain showed it wasn’t all one way traffic and excellent play by Daniel Wright showed Deighton couldn’t overlook their defensive duties. Ossett kept the ball well with Joe Turfrey working hard in possession, Billy Cundall putting together some effective passing and Charlie Mountain displaying his skill out wide.
The whole Ossett team displayed their defensive ability with James Ruane now on and contributing headers and tackles to the cause. Connor Daniel was tracking back and Ben Fox challenging strongly. Deighton’s pressure was increasing and they headed onto the crossbar before Alex Campbell made several brilliant saves: one-on-one with attackers, keeping himself upright until getting down at the last moment to block. His bravery earned him a knock needing some treatment but it didn’t alter his commitment. Time was running out and the intensity increasing with passion and determination evident on both sides. The wave of attacks eventually broke through Ossett’s brave barrier when a low cross from the right was knocked in at close range for Deighton’s equaliser.
The remaining few minutes saw Deighton inspired to push for a winner but they were unable to breach the equally inspired Alex Campbell. Two more top saves only confirmed Deighton’s frustration at his performance and confirmed his player of the match display. Full time arrived with Ossett needing to pick themselves up from being so close to a cup double whilst Deighton were looking to continue their momentum.
Ben Fox showed his stamina to be still able to win the ball and clear as Deighton kept the ball in Ossett’s half. The ball was sent over the top and Alex Campbell was again bravely out and adjudged to have fouled the attacker as both showed their commitment to reach the ball. Deighton dusted themselves down and dispatched the penalty for a 2-1 lead. It would have been easy for Ossett heads to drop but captain Daniel Wright showed his determination as Ossett continued to fight for the ball. Deighton were playing some good football and once again created space to finish well from the right to make it 3-1. Joe Pygott had been pushed up and he was pressing down the left as Ossett didn’t give up. The second period of extra time saw this continue as Daniel Wright, Joe Pygott and Joe Turfrey tried their luck without really testing the keeper. Deighton still looked dangerous on the break and Alex Campbell had to make a smart save.
Deighton were worthy winners due to their performance over the whole 90 minutes. Some excellent attacking as well as a dominant defensive display showed how they’re at the top of the League. Ossett nearly pulled off a memorable cup double and, if they had, it would have been down to tremendous teamwork, tenacious defending and great keeping – all important factors in a top team – but sometimes that bit of luck runs out. All the Ossett players should be proud of their efforts when looking at their whole cup run: great games, great goals and top team performances to remember.
Thursday, 29 April
Heavy Woollen District FA Secker Cup Final
Hartshead Juniors A 2 Ossett Town Juniors A 3
Goalscorers – Daniel Wright, Connor Daniel and Ashley Young
Player of the Match – Ben Fox
Town Triumphant in Tense Final
Ossett’s first final of the week was played out under the floodlights at Ossett Albion as both teams entertained the crowd with a thriller. The sense of occasion was heightened by the players meeting guest of honour, Mr Secker, and shaking hands with each other Premier League style as the Secker Cup anthem played out on the tannoy.
As the crowd warmed up the atmosphere, Ossett settled early with a strong Daniel Wright run winning an early corner. Ashley Young was in the thick of the action as he put a shot over. Ossett were keen to impress and Billy Cundall was winning possession with his usual tenacious tackles, whilst Connor Daniel was looking to spray passes about. Hartshead took a bit longer to settle but when they did the game evened up as they put Ossett under some pressure. Ossett’s defence had to be on their toes with James Ruane and Daniel Sheen working well to contain any threats. Connor Daniel showed his danger with a run and shot, then Billy Cundall shot wide. A smart Hartshead move ended with a tremendous volley causing confusion as some sides of the ground thought it had gone in, luckily for Ossett keeper Alex Campbell was able to pick the ball up from behind the goal. Soon enough Alex showed his quality when pushing a strong shot over the bar before Hartshead put a header wide from a free kick.
Ben Fox and Daniel Sheen were prominent at the back as Ossett fought off this sustained pressure. This allowed Ossett to build again and take the lead slightly against the run of play. A well-flighted corner was sent over by Joe Turfrey which Daniel Wright planted in the back of the net for 1-0 Ossett. Hartshead pushed again and a run through the Ossett defence was finished off with a low shot for the equaliser: 1-1. The edge of excitement kept everyone interested as Ossett pressed with Joe Turfrey breaking forward, when his first time shot flew too high. Dominic Sykes was now using his strength to keep Hartshead at bay. Charlie Mountain’s nice control on the right allowed him to play in Joe Turfrey, who made himself space only to shoot wide.
The half ended with both teams toe-to-toe looking for that decisive goal. Ashley Young was working hard at the back and Alex Campbell gathering the ball well; Joe Turfrey looking to break forward. Hartshead may have had the clearer chances in an even half but it was still all to play for.
Connor Daniel and Daniel Wright linked up well as Ossett went on the front foot in the second period. Connor Daniel was leading his troops with a determined display. Joe Pygott had to be alert to watch the ball and get his tackles in as Hartshead still had an appetite for goals. The fluctuating nature of the game continued as Dominic Sykes shot wide and Daniel Wright controlled well on his chest before shooting. Hartshead built up more pressure and capped off a sustained spell by finishing from close range to take the lead: 2-1 Hartshead.
Aaron Potter showed his commitment to battle for possession as Ossett pressed to get back into it. Joe Turfrey had a dangerous free kick cleared and Connor Daniel had a looped shot saved. Any anxiety felt by Ossett was calmed when Connor Daniel controlled the ball in the middle of the park and, from outside the box, lashed a shot high into the corner for 2-2. This put a spring in Ossett’s step as another deep free kick from Joe Turfrey earned a corner and Dominic Sykes used the ball to feed Connor Daniel whose own run finished with a shot over the bar. Then a direct free kick from Joe Turfrey was saved.
Hartshead continued to make it an even game. There was no let up with Aaron Potter in the midst of it and Louis Spurr and Daniel Sheen making important clearances. Ben Fox was now in the centre of defence and adapting well, keeping a good balance to the team. Joe Pygott was closing down when required. As the clock ticked down it felt like the next goal was the winner. A smart move by Hartshead saw them clear through into the box – keeper Alex Campbell excelled by moving out and getting in a fantastic block to save what looked odds on to be a goal.
This proved to be the turning point as Ossett rebounded to attack – Dominic Sykes did well to work a cross in which went out for a corner. Although, Daniel Sheen had to be on his toes as Hartshead broke again. Nails were being bitten down when Joe Turfrey lined up another free kick. A curling cross found its way to the head of Ashley Young who placed it to the side of the keeper to head Ossett into a late lead: 3-2. Hartshead only had a couple of minutes to push and Ossett had to remain calm to see it out. Ben Fox was prominent as Ossett were able to see off Harthead’s efforts. Ben’s calmness and consistency under pressure earned him the player of the match award. The final whistle brought elation to the Ossett ranks as the Cup was won.
An even gamed was edged by Ossett with both teams able to be proud of their efforts. The match was played in a good spirit and refereed in the same manner. Both sets of players deserved their round of applause at the presentation ceremony where Connor Daniel lifted the Secker Cup for Ossett Town. The rain had made the conditions slippery under foot, and the occasion may have stifled some of the usual good football, but a match in which both teams had dominant spells, and was in the balance right to the end, is a good showpiece for a final. Well done lads.
Wednesday 28th April 2010
"BRACES AT THE DOUBLE AND A COLLECTORS ITEM AS OSSETT CANTER HOME"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
OSSETT TOWN B 9 – 2 HEPWORTH B
Scorers: Sam Pashley (3), Mo Sidat (2), Adam Horsfall (2), Jack Lonsdale, Tom Hobson
Man of the Match: Adam Horsfall
Report by Brian Hobson
Town helped themselves to another 3 points and another sack full of goals with a strong all round team performance.
Ossett were on top from the start, with Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale again bossing the centre midfield and repeatedly bringing wide men Chris Scott and Adam Horsfall into the game. Horsfall in particular had the beating of his marker and put some dangerous balls over.
At the back Martin Preston and Waqas Awad looked assured and swept up whenever Hepworth made a rare foray into Town’s half, allowing fullbacks Liam Preston and Alex Hall to push up and play more as wing backs.
Hepworth defended well against Town’s twin strike force of Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat, but though it took 13 minutes to make the breakthrough it was always just a matter of time before the Ossett pair’s harrying, chasing, pace and skill paid off. Town’s goal attempts had largely been shots from distance until then, but good battling from Sidat in the box caused the ball to fall to Pashley and he slotted it in.
Town began to settle down now and make more clear-cut chances. Sam Pashley shot just wide after Mo Sidat’s flick on, and Adam Horsfall headed Chris Scott’s dangerous corner over. On 18 minutes Town doubled their lead, Pashley heading it into the path of Horsfall who finished coolly.
Hepworth had a good chance to get one back but put their first shot of the game wide, then Town spurned several chances to extend their lead. A brilliant Sam Pashley pass sent Adam Horsfall away, and when his shot was saved Pashley blazed the rebound over, then Pashley volleyed just wide from Mo Sidat’s cross.
Jaz Ahmed came on to the left wing to replace the injured Chris Scott, and was quickly in thick of the action. First he fired into the side netting after Mo Sidat pulled it back from a good Adam Horsfall cross, then from Ahmed’s fine pass Sidat had a shot saved. On 29 minutes Ossett made it 3-0; Adam Horsfall lost a boot but still managed to get a terrific shot in from the right which beat the keeper.
Town threatened to add to the score – Mo Sidat headed wide from Adam Horsfall’s great run and cross, Sam Pashley twice had shots saved after fine Ossett moves, while at the other end Martin Preston covered superbly as Hepworth threatened. On the stroke of half time Town effectively sealed the result, when Martin Preston’s deep free kick was played back into the box by Ryan White for Sam Pashley to head in.
Half time saw Will Dann and Tom Hobson come on at full back, and both looked assured and confident as Ossett continued to dominate the game. 3 minutes after the break it was 5-0, Jack Lonsdale finding Sam Pashley who played it to Mo Sidat who finished at the 2nd attempt, and 3 minutes later Pashley completed his hat-trick, cleverly chesting down Adam Horsfall’s chipped pass and blasting it in.
Hepworth managed to get their first shot on target, forcing a good save from Tom Rogers, but it remained one-way traffic. Martin Preston made a fine forward run and passed to Mo Sidat whose shot was well saved, Jack Lonsdale had a shot saved after Sam Pashley’s cross and Sidat forced another save from the busy visiting keeper following Ryan White’s pass.
On 48 minutes the pressure told and a wonderful Ossett move culminated in Sam Pashley pulling it back for Jack Lonsdale to fire into the net. With Liam Preston back on in central defence and Chris Scott and Alex Hall returning to the midfield Town continued to dominate, Mo Sidat rattling the crossbar with a great 20 metre effort, although it needed a good clearing header from Will Dann and a fine Tom Rogers save to keep Town’s goal intact.
The goal of the night came after 57 minutes, Mo Sidat dribbling past 4 opponents from his own half before scoring a wonderful individual goal to complete his brace. This was soon followed by number 9; Adam Horsfall was brought down by the keeper to enable Tom Hobson to calmly score his first goal for 7 years, slotting the resulting penalty into the bottom left hand corner (he’d clearly watched Mikel Arteta’s carefully on Sunday!).
With Hepworth down to 10 men after a couple of injuries, Town took their foot off the gas and the visitors played their best football of the night, scoring 2 and missing a penalty in the last 5 minutes! The 2 goals were scrambled in from corners (it didn’t matter to the result, but Town really do need to defend better and stop panicking every time the opposition get a corner!) and though the penalty was struck against the bar, it kept up Tom Rogers remarkable record of not letting a penalty in for some months now.
There were plenty of contenders for man of the match in a good display from the whole team (at least for the first 65 minutes!). The defenders were strong, covered well for each other and usually tried to look for a pass rather than hoofing it forward. The midfield ensured Town dictated the game, protecting the defence then driving forward in waves, while the forwards once again proved unstoppable for the opposition. However, one player stood out from first whistle to last, first out wide then up front, so well done Adam Horsfall.
Sunday 25 April
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 4 Longcroft Lions 1
Player of the Match – Daniel Wright
Goalscorers – Connor Daniel (2), Daniel Wright and Joe Turfrey
Instant Replay
Ossett’s rematch with Longcroft was given added interest with the return of their intrepid explorers and the start of the countdown for cup finals week. Rumours of a GMTV camera crew asking for directions to Gawthorpe were unproven.
Ossett began with a spring in their step, putting early pressure on Longcroft, following the pattern of last Thursday’s game. The ball was moving nicely around the midfield area and another good passing move saw the ball end up with Joe Turfrey who set up Daniel Wright, who controlled well and finished smartly low into the corner for 1-0 Ossett. Joe Turfrey sniffed an opportunity to add to his bagful of goals in the previous game: an Ossett break away saw him shoot straight at the keeper, then as he gained possession in the middle of the Longcroft half, he controlled the ball, looked up and with the keeper a few yards off his line, took aim and chipped the ball towards goal. The keeper did well to watch it all the way and tip it onto the bar before it was scrambled clear.
Longcroft kept on pushing and Joe Pygott was forced into action on the left and Louis Spurr active on the right. James Ruane and Daniel Sheen were kept busy in the middle. Ashley Young, Connor Daniel and Daniel Wright were linking well and trying to set Joe Turfrey free. Daniel Wright used his strength to break forward but his shot was saved. Ossett moved the ball neatly along the left, allowing Connor Daniel to gain position on the edge of the box, where he cut in and finished across the keeper for 2-0. Joe Turfrey soon went on a great run, beating several defenders before lifting his shot over the bar. Daniel Wright put Joe Turfrey clear but his shot skimmed the bar this time. More Ossett pressure saw an Ashley Young shot deflected for a corner – this was cleared to Charlie Mountain who floated in a great cross which James Ruane did well to get his head to but couldn’t beat the keeper.
Longcroft were working extremely hard to compensate for having 10 players and deserve credit for not letting Ossett have it easy in the first half. Both sets of players were showing their passion.
A smart Ossett move early in the second period saw Joe Turfrey fire over the bar. Ossett continued to press and a corner was knocked out to Billy Cundall who let fly with a shot. Ben Fox slung in a deep cross which Ashley Young worked well to Connor Daniel, whose header was pushed over by the keeper. Some good link up play was centred around Dominic Sykes as Ossett tried to break open the Longcroft defence. Longcroft were determined to get something and Aaron Potter was involved in some strong tackling and Ben Fox showed he’d got rid of his sea legs with some crunching tackles. Daniel Sheen was strong and unlucky when a low shot was well saved. However on one occasion, some confusion set into the Ossett defence allowing Longcroft to pull one back and earn some reward for their endeavour: 2-1.
Ossett looked like a bit of complacency had set in as Longcroft were boosted and pushed on. Connor Daniel was back to make a saving tackle and set Ossett back onto the front foot. Billy Cundall was closing down any Longcroft possession and was there to sweep up any clearances as he sent in a couple of looping efforts which ended up too high. Joe Turfrey was working hard to gain possession and Connor Daniel showed good control before shooting wide. As the sun came out, Alex Campbell might have thought he was back on the sandy beaches of Jamaica, but luckily for Ossett he managed to wipe any Gawthorpe grit kicked up by the wind out of his eyes to make a fine low save as Longcroft kept on pushing forward. Connor Daniel and Daniel Wright both had runs with the ball before shooting over. This was a bit of a second half theme as Ossett fired in shots too high without always considering the options of the players breaking either side of them.
Any concerns were soon blown away as Connor Daniel accelerated into the box and knocked the ball across the keeper at a tight angle to make it 3-1. Ossett were back on top as Dominic Sykes flicked on a header to Joe Turfrey who set up Billy Cundall but his shot was blocked and then Dominic Sykes headed over from the corner. Joe Turfrey rounded off the finishing when he picked the ball up on the left and crashed a low finish into the far corner for 4-1. Ossett had to earn this scoreline through a workrate epitomised by Daniel Wright who used his strength, pace and determination all game to unsettle Longcroft and his engine was behind a lot of Ossett’s better spells. A good example of how he earned the player of the match showed him winning the ball, letting it go and making a run into space, calling for the ball – his tight control created space for the shot which was well blocked on the line and his rebound shot eventually cleared: a piece of individual effort unlucky not to finish with a goal.
A tighter game than Thursday as Longcroft impressed with 10 men. Ossett can move into cup finals week and focus on all that entails: appointment at Carl Stuart’s for their Cup Final suits; afternoon tea with the Lord Mayor of the Heavy Woollen district; a Cup Final song as exclusively played by DJ Dr Fox; press interviews (watch out for Keith Chegwin and the GMTV cameras); as well as resting up some weary limbs for the big games to come.
HUDDERSFIELD UNDER 14’S LEAGUE DIVISION THREE
‘‘OSSETT PRODUCE ANOTHER STUNNING PERFORMANCE”
SUNDAY 25TH APRIL
OSSETT TOWN B (4) 12 V KIRKBURTON 0
SCORERS: MO SIDAT 3, SAM PASHLEY 4, RYAN WHITE 2,JAZZ AHMED, CHRIS SCOTT, ADAM HORSFALL
MAN OF THE MATCH: WAQAS AWAD
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town played host to kirkburton who as we know from previous encounters can be dangerous opponents. Ossett took to the field with a full strength side. Tom Rogers resumed his goal keeping duties after his recent illness, allowing the familiar back line of Alex Hall, Martin Preston. Waqas Awad and Liam Preston to start.
It was Kirkburton who started the liveliest with the midfield of Adam Horsfall, Ryan White, Jack Lonsdale and Chris Scott having to be alert. But within five minutes Ossett had settled into the game with Chris Scott on the left providing a pass to Sam Pashley up front to force a good save from the Keeper. Mo Sidat the other striker was also starting to cause the defense problems as he laid a great ball back to Adam Horsfall who shot just wide.
Ossett now started to dominate surely it would be only a matter of time before they scored, as this time it was Jack Lonsdale going close. With 15 minutes gone, Ryan White sent a ball over the top to Sam Pashley, Sam then found Chris Scott to score the first and well deserved goal. Within two minutes Town had scored again when Adam Horsfall won the ball on the right squared it to Ryan White who hit a screamer from 30m out into the top corner.
Town were not having it all their own way as the back four had to keep fighting to stop the opposition from scoring. Ryan White as usual was doing a fantastic captain’s role as the holding midfielder. On 19 minutes Ryan saw Sam Pashley in space, sent the ball over to him, Sam picked up the ball and only had one thought, he went round three players to score Town’s third. As the half progressed Ossett became more and more dominant with Sam and Mo going close on several occasions.
Ossett’s fourth came from Adam Horsfall who received the ball from the excellent Chris Scott to score in the bottom corner. The half finished 4-0 but could have easily been a lot more.
The second half started as the last half had ended with Town soon into their stride and being totally dominant. Will Dann now took up the left back position and Jazz Ahmed now on the right. Within 5 minutes Ossett extended their lead to 5 with a great individual goal from Sam Pashley.
To be fair to Kirkburton they were not giving up as they put their big defender up front, but he could not get past Will Dann and Martin Preston. Another burst by Sam saw Mo Sidat in space, Sam laid the ball back to Mo to score in the bottom corner. It was Jazz Ahmed who popped up to score Ossett’s seventh after another great through ball from Ryan White. Ossett were now totally dominant as Adam Horsfall crossed the ball to find Sam Pashley who headed into the bottom corner.
Within three minutes Ossett had scored again with the keeper unable to handle a shot from Ryan White to make it nine. Ossett’s tenth came from a fantastic Sam Pashley and MoSidat one two, this time it was Mo who finished brilliantly. Sam took control to run round four defenders to make it 11-0. As the match drew to a close there was time for Sam to put in yet another cross for Mo Sidat to find the net.
The match finished 12-0 and the goals had come so quickly that the referee had only recorded 11.
The man of the match went to Waqas Awad who after being the stand in keeper for the last two games was outstanding. This game was totally dominated by a fantastic Ossett Town side who are well worthy of their position at the top of the league.
Well Done lads fantastic stuff!
"TOWN OVERCOME WEARY LEGS TO FIGHT BACK"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
Hepworth B 1 – 3 Ossett Town B
Scorers: Mo Sidat (2), Sam Pashley
Man of the Match: Ryan White
Friday 23rd April 2010
Match Report by Brian Hobson
24 hours after their gruelling top-of-the-table clash, Ossett showed their character by overturning a half-time deficit to achieve a well-deserved victory.
Illness again kept keeper Tom Rogers on the sidelines, and with Adam Horsfall injured Town’s squad was stretched to the full. Waqas Awad again deputised in goal, and showed such impressive handling he looked as if he had played there all his life. Liam Preston again filled Awad’s place at centre back.
Town started well, Ryan White firing wide after beating 2 defenders and Mo Sidat shooting across goal after wriggling free. However they were stunned after 6 minutes when, despite starting with 10 men, the hosts took the lead, as Town were slow to react to a bouncing ball.
Town proceeded to dominate possession, but Hepworth were first to most loose balls as Town’s usual energy was missing despite Jaz Ahmed, Jack Lonsdale, Ryan White and Chris Scott running the midfield. Plenty of chances were created – Sam Pashley’s shot was blocked after a good Chris Scott cross, Mo Sidat’s header from Pashley’s cross was saved, Sidat’s shot was saved after a fine run and Scott’s follow up was blocked.
The chances continued to flow as Ossett’s superiority continued, but as the half went on you began to wonder if it would ever go in. Ryan White’s excellent pass sent Sam Pashley away only for his shot to be saved by the inspired home keeper, before Pashley sent Chris Scott away only for his shot to come back off the foot of the post.
With Martin Preston, Tom Hobson and Alex Hall in excellent form at the back and Hepworth offering little threat, Town changed to a 3-4-3 formation with Liam Preston moving up front. On the one occasion Hepworth got through, Waqas Awad was out smartly to thwart them.
Behind at the break with the previous night’s exertions clearly taking their toll, Ossett’s character was tested to the limit. They were going to have to push their aching legs until they hurt if they were to get the victory needed to keep alive their title hopes. But any doubts about whether they could summon up the determination required were answered emphatically with 3 goals in the space of 5 minutes early in the 2nd half.
Liam Preston began the fightback, winning 2 challenges and releasing Mo Sidat to finish well. Two minutes later Sam Pashley capped off a fine move involving Jack Lonsdale and Mo Sidat to put Town ahead, and with Will Dann now on in midfield and scrapping for everything Ossett made it 3-1 on 44 minutes when Mo Sidat held off a challenge and blasted it in.
Liam Preston was moved back to defence as Town reverted to 4-4-2, although it took an excellent Waqas Awad save to prevent Hepworth getting a goal back as they got through the defence for the only time in the half. The host’s defending was very strong and Ossett’s forwards also had difficulty getting through, but Town made the clearer chances for the rest of the half without taking any of them.
Chris Scott had a header saved, Mo Sidat headed just wide, Sam Pashley just missed the target twice and Jack Lonsdale had a shot saved and another blocked after a fine Mo Sidat run and pull-back, but Town had to settle for 3-1.
Town have produced much more fluid football than this and have played with more tempo. However, it is the games when you have to push your body through the pain barrier when things are going against you which are the real tests of players’ character, and every Town player passed this test with flying colours. Hepworth had some good players and never stopped trying, but they were only allowed to have 2 real shots in the whole game as Ossett dominated from start to finish. However, the players have to learn the lesson that arguing with the ref is futile, a waste of energy and stops them concentrating on their own game. It doesn’t matter whether you agree with him or not, the ref gives what he sees and his decision is final.
This was another game when the whole team could have got man of the match, but with a midfield performance which epitomised Town’s display, covering every blade of grass and covering back when needed, Ryan White took the honour.
Thursday 22nd APRIL 2010
HUDDERSFIELD LEAGUE UNDER 14’S THIRD DIVISION
“OSSETT REMAIN TOP”
KEXBOROUGH CHIEFS (1) 1 V OSSETT TOWN B (0) 1
GOAL SCORER: ADAM HORSFALL
MAN OF THE MATCH: THE WHOLE TEAM
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town kicked off the match facing the only team in the third division to have beaten them this season, and from the start both teams knew they had a real battle on their hands.
Town had a slightly different line up to usual as Waqas Awad had to take over the keeper’s shirt due to Tom Rogers feeling unwell.
Ossett had their usual 4-4-2 formation with Will Dann, Alex Hall, Liam and Martin Preston in defence, Adam Horsfall, Jack Lonsdale, Ryan White and Chris Scott in midfield, and Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley up front.
With the possibility that the winners of this game would win the league title both sides understandably started nervously.
Mo Sidat with an early break won a free kick and launched it into the box, only to be cleared by what was to prove to be a very well organised defence (who had conceded only 10 goals to date this season).
As the pace of the game picked up both sides went looking for the early goal and the Town’s defence were soon being tested, but both Martin and Liam Preston were showing some good form.
Chris Scott and Ryan White were also battling hard and covering most of the field.
All the team were now settled and playing well, but finding it difficult to penetrate the Kexborough defence.
Ossett Town now started to find ways through the defence and Ryan White managed to get a shot just over the bar. Soon after from Chris Scott’s corner, Sam Pashley’s shot went just over.
Kexborough were also forcing some great saves from the stand in keeper Waqas Awad.
For a neutral supporter this was a fascinating game, as both very evenly and talented sides were looking for the breakthrough, and both managers were prowling the touchline trying to give their respective teams an advantage.
Again Ryan White was doing what he does best and leading his team by example.
Adam Horsfall was now getting into the game and had a shot go just over the bar. Mo Sidat had a break from the Ossett penalty area and managed to run the length of the field only to be foiled by the last defender.
Again the home side counter attacked and their problem was trying to get past Jack Lonsdale who covered the midfield with guts and tenacity. If they managed to get through they found Will Dann at left back in great form. When they attacked down the right Alex Hall looked unbeatable. When the home side tried the middle both Martin and Liam Preston were not giving anything away.
Who would break the deadlock?
It came towards the end of the first half from a controversial penalty awarded to Kexborough and the resulting goal was to be the only goal of the first half.
What could the manager say during the half time team talk to 11 players who had given everything?
Keep playing as you have done!
This is exactly what Ossett did as the same line up took to the field and the game resumed at the same tempo and commitment from both sets of players as the first half.
Adam Horsfall was soon causing problems, and Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley were finding gaps in the Kexborough defence.
The problem both teams were finding were injuries due to the tenacious tackles, and the hard surface if a player fell.
Time and again the home side pressed only to find the defence resolute, particularly Will Dann and Martin Preston.
Ossett’s midfield were again covering every inch of the field and they were beginning to find ways through for Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat to have chances.
Ossett’s persistence paid off, when on 50 minutes Sam Pashley forced a great save from the keeper, he could not keep hold of the ball and it fell to Mo Sidat, who’s shot hit the cross bar, the re-bound fell to Adam Horsfall who managed to tuck the ball away to level the score at one all.
This goal lifted the tempo even higher with both sets of players now giving 110%.
Waqas Awad was having a terrific game in goal, and as players began to tire, Kexborough were trying their luck with longer-range shots.
At the other end of the field Mo Sidat, Sam Pashley, Ryan White and Adam Horsfall were all having chances.
Ossett now made a couple of changes with Chris Scott making way for Jazz Ahmed and Will Dann for Tom Hobson, both players leaving the field to much deserved applause.
The tempo of the game remained high as the ball went from end to end and there was no time for Jazz and Tom to settle in as both players were soon in the thick of it and responded really well to the challenge.
As the game drew to a close, cramp started to become a problem as both Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale were nearing exhaustion and with only 4 minutes to go Jack had to be replaced by Chris Scott as he was finding it difficult to walk. What a fantastic performance from a young man who typifies the Ossett Town spirit.
As the game drew to a close there was still time for Sam Pashley to go close.
The game ended as a draw, which was probably a fair result but if it had not been for the penalty! Ossett would have won.
This was a fantastic team performance and the man of the match award went to the whole squad.
Every single player should be proud of his individual performance and as the end of season fixtures pile up you will have to repeat this.
Thursday 22 April
Huddersfield League Division One
Longcroft Lions 0 Ossett Town Juniors A 7
Player of the Match – Daniel Sheen
Goalscorers – Joe Turfrey (5), Daniel Wright and Connor Daniel
Ossett Tame the Lions
Ossett entered the lions’ den and took the game to their opponents from the off. A bumpy sloping pitch also had to be tamed as Ossett put on a show worthy of the big top.
Joe Turfrey gave an early hint of things to come when taking a lay off from Dominic Sykes to chip the keeper for 1-0 Ossett. Longcroft showed their spirit in response and had a spell of possession when Ossett had to be alert to keep their lead. Ossett reasserted their edge when a Daniel Sheen clearance set up Daniel Wright, who burst through only for his shot to be pushed for a corner, which itself was cleared with relief by Longcroft. A quick throw-in by Connor Daniel allowed Dominic Sykes to use his strength to get in position for a shot which the keeper did well to save. Dominic Sykes was involved again with good close control setting up a move involving Joe Turfrey, Daniel Wright and Ashley Young, who provided the cross for Daniel Wright to finish from close range for 2-0.
Longcroft responded and poured forward into attack, the ball flew about the Ossett box, a last ditch tackle by James Ruane prevented a close range effort but Longcroft retrieved the ball and lashed in a shot which come back off the bar before being cleared. Ossett kept probing and Connor Daniel went close with a header from a corner. Aaron Potter was alert in goal and, after a good Longcroft run, made a strong save – he then showed his awareness with the kick downfield which was expertly flicked on by Dominic Sykes for Joe Turfrey to run on and slide past the keeper from the edge of the box for 3-0.
Charlie Mountain and Dominic Sykes were linking well as they looked to set up further Ossett breaks, with Louis Spurr pushing forward whenever he could. Billy Cundall and Ashley Young were both tenacious in midfield to win Ossett plenty of possession. Connor Daniel used his strength to battle through a crowd of players but before he could set himself for a shot the ball broke clear – Joe Turfrey was on hand to fire in a shot which flew just over. Act one had gone to Ossett with the second act set to be uphill.
Ossett’s keeper merry-go-round continued as Daniel Wright took the gloves. Aaron Potter now showed his outfield persistence, securing plenty of possession as Ossett stayed in control. Daniel Sheen was prominent at the back, winning the ball and setting up a break where Connor Daniel played Joe Turfrey through to clear the last defender and then place it coolly past the keeper for his hat-trick and 4-0 to Ossett. It wasn’t long before Louis Spurr sent a searching ball upfield; smart control by Joe Turfrey allowed him to lob the onrushing keeper for another classy finish: 5-0. Ossett were buzzing and everyone was playing their part. Joe Pygott was looking to use the ball intelligently on the left and Charlie Mountain was showing neat skill as he constantly pushed forward looking for a way through the defence.
Daniel Sheen was snuffing out the Longcroft attacks and was the base of many of Ossett’s attacking moves. Alongside James Ruane the centre of defence was forming a solid wall to protect keeper Daniel Wright. Joe Turfrey was playing havoc with the Longcroft defence and another excellent lob for his fifth made it 6-0 for Ossett. Dominic Sykes soon flashed in a first time shot which was well saved. Joe Pygott’s controlled pass put in Joe Turfrey and then Dominic Sykes won the ball and set up Joe but he couldn’t fit any more goals into his boots. Connor Daniel was using the ball well as he tried to unlock the Longcroft defence one more time but he shot over. Longcroft heads had not dropped and several runs deep into Ossett territory kept Ossett on their toes. Daniel Sheen’s consistent excellence at the back snuffed out many an attack.
Daniel Sheen showed his attacking threat as he linked up well with Joe Turfrey. Both players were making it a difficult choice for player of the match but the award went to Daniel Sheen for his stand out all round play, just edging Joe Turfrey’s finishing masterclass. There was still time for Connor Daniel to find himself some space in the box and fire into the far corner to make it a magnificent 7-0 for Ossett. The game finished with a comfortable low save by Daniel Wright.
Ossett’s hard-working display, combined with fantastic skill, set up a great win. Joe Turfrey was the ringmaster with his finishing ability while the whole team provided a performance worthy of top billing.
Sunday 18 April
"TOWN OVERCOME LIONS AND DOGS TO TAKE THE POINTS"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
YORKSHIRE LIONS 2 - 7 OSSETT TOWN B
Scorers: Mo Sidat (2), Sam Pashley (2), Adam Horsfall (2), Chris Scott
Man of the Match: Jaz Ahmed, Sam Pashley
Report by Brian Hobson
Ossett took all 3 points from this clash with one of their closest challengers with a fine all-round team performance.
On a lovely spring morning, the game got underway on a flat but bone-dry pitch, which made it hard for both teams to get the ball under control and pass it around. Lions were first to threaten, and it took a brilliant Waqas Awad tackle to prevent them taking an early lead, Awad injuring himself in the process.
It was Town who drew first blood, however, when a perfect Chris Scott corner from the right was headed in well by Mo Sidat. Sam Pashley then had a good shot well saved following a break, before Pashley created the 2nd goal on 8 minutes. He made a good run down the right before crossing for Chris Scott to fire it into the top corner with what is rapidly becoming his deadly right foot!
4 minutes later Ossett opened up what looked like being an unassailable lead, this time Mo Sidat breaking down the left and he crossed for Sam Pashley to tap in. Sadat was then inches away from reaching Waqas Awad’s miss-hit free kick as Town dominated play, with Jack Lonsdale and Ryan White bossing the central midfield..
It was far from being one-sided, however, and Lions had plenty of pace up front which troubled Town’s back 4 of Liam & Martin Preston, Alex Hall and Waqas Awad. Fortunately all of them stood up to the test, and even managed to keep their concentration despite a couple of interruptions for a stray dog on the pitch!
The game ebbed and flowed as both teams went for goals; Sam Pashley was foiled by the keeper and Chris Scott and Ryan White had shots blocked, while Martin Preston had to make a fine tackle at the other end. 10 minutes from the break it was Town who got the goal – Mo Sidat made a great run down the left and picked out Sam Pashley to tap it in. However a minute later Lions got one back with an unstoppable shot from wide on their left, and this was the signal for a Town reorganisation. Jaz Ahmed came on on the right wing with Sam Pashley moving to right back to counteract the pacy Lions left winger and Adam Horsfall going up front.
In the end Ossett were fortunate to get to half-time with their 3 goal lead intact. First Lions missed a harshly-awarded penalty for handball, then their forward blazed over an empty net after a terrific turn of pace had got him through the Town defence.
Town started the 2nd half well, Mo Sidat having his shot blocked by the advancing keeper, and that particular battle was to become a feature of the half. However it was Lions who made it 4-2 on 40 minutes, scrambling home a long throw.
Any danger of nerves taking a hold were extinguished within a minute, however, as Mo Sidat restored Town’s 3 goal advantage with a free kick from fully 30 metres out which the keeper was unable to hold. 2 minutes later it was 6-2 when Adam Horsfall beat the offside trap from Sam Pashley’s free-kick to lob it over the onrushing keeper, and Town’s confidence soared.
With the game opening out and chances appearing at both ends it was Town who continued to have the clearer ones. The home keeper produced fine saves to foil Mo Sidat and Adam Horsfall twice, while Tom Rogers produced a terrific save diving to his right to push a good shot away.
Will Dann and Tom Hobson came on in midfield and defence respectively with Liam Preston back on in central midfield, and Town continued to look the more likely to score next. Sure enough, on 56 minutes in a carbon-copy of the 6th goal Adam Horsfall beat the offside trap with a perfectly timed run and lobbed the keeper to make it 7-2.
Good defending by Martin Preston and a crucial Tom Hobson tackle kept Town’s goal intact, while Mo Sidat was once again thwarted by the home keeper to ensure there were no more additions to the score.
This was an excellent performance from Town from front to back against a good team who were not short of danger men. It was never easy to get the ball on the floor and pass it around the way we like to, but with the back 4 sticking to their tasks superbly, the midfield fighting like tigers and the forwards making intelligent well-timed runs Ossett were always in command. We move on to the next big challenge in good heart and full of confidence.
The joint men-of-the-match epitomised Town’s performance. Jaz Ahmed worked tirelessly in midfield, joining attacks and tracking back continuously, while Sam Pashley moved from lethal attacker to solid defender to do the job required of him for the good of the team as a whole – that’s what being a good footballer is all about.
Finally a word about the referee – none of us agree with every decision made, but his positioning was superb and he always seemed to be in the right place to judge the tight offside calls. Let’s hope the players took note of his words at the end of the game, and continue to concentrate on their own performances rather than criticising somebody else’s.
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 2 Hartshead Juniors 0
Player of the Match – James Ruane
Goalscorers – James Ruane and Joe Turfrey
Town Edge Dress Rehearsal
Town faced their Secker Cup final opponents in a contest where both teams had a chance to lay down a marker for their showpiece meeting.
Ossett started brightly, playing some neat football, and a nice move down the right ended up with Charlie Mountain in for a shot which he sent across the face of goal. Well-worked passing along the right involving Aaron Potter and Louis Spurr put in Joe Turfrey who took it round the keeper but the angle was too tight and the ball ran out of play. Daniel Wright did well to pressurise the Hartshead defence to win a corner. He then nodded the resulting cross just wide at the back post. Stand-in keeper Connor Daniel showed his alertness by safely collecting a deep free kick.
The game settled down into a tight midfield contest and Joe Turfrey looked to break the deadlock with close control and powerful shot which went just over. Ossett increased their pressure but Hartshead were defending well and getting their foot in to break up any Ossett attacks. A well-struck free kick by Daniel Sheen was hit deep into the Hartshead box, an attempted clearance reached Joe Pygott, who headed towards goal, only for the keeper to react well and push it wide. This reprieve gave Hartshead a spring in their step as they won possession in midfield and broke down the right. A cross into the box found an onrushing attacker who blazed a first-time effort over the bar. Ossett responded well and Charlie Mountain showed good control to lay it off to Ashley Young who moved forward and found Joe Pygott breaking down the left – his cross to Daniel Wright allowed him to control and shoot but the keeper collected well. Another Daniel Wright effort was fired in hard and low but again the keeper handled safely.
Connor Daniel was out quickly to collect a through ball as Ossett continued to keep it tight. Neither side had created many clear-cut chances although Ossett had the majority of possession and kept probing up to half time with Ashley Young and Aaron Potter linking up well.
The second half started with Hartshead more alert and causing danger as they showed their strength and determination to get clear on the keeper. Aaron Potter had taken the gloves this half and came out to pressure the shot. Luckily for Ossett the shot came back off the post before being cleared. Hartshead were lively and Ossett needed Connor Daniel to show his control on the ball to ease the pressure as he put Daniel Wright through but the keeper did well to reach it first. Billy Cundall had been working away all game in support of the defence and was then involved further up, linking well with Connor Daniel to win a corner. Joe Pygott planted another header goalbound but again was denied by the keeper. Ossett were playing some nice stuff in patches but Hartshead were showing they could play and another move finished up with Aaron Potter pushing the shot against the post. Daniel Sheen was strong in the tackle and always looking to break into midfield. Ossett needed to pick it up and smart work by Joe Turfrey laid it off to Charlie Mountain, who fed it back to Joe, whose pressure won a corner. Joe Turfrey flighted it in for James Ruane to rise well and head powerfully goalwards – the effort hit the man on the line and went in for 1-0 Ossett.
Hartshead responded well and Aaron Potter made a good save and then released the ball well to set up another Ossett attack. Charlie Mountain was influential along the left – knocking an effort wide from the edge of the box and exchanging neat passes with Joe Turfrey. Joe was involved on both wings, playing a one two with Louis Spurr. In a more advanced position Louis ran onto a pass from Connor Daniel and timed his shot well but it was blocked and cleared. Joe Turfrey then had a long range free kick held under the bar by the keeper before Aaron Potter was called on to make a low save between his legs.
Another quick Ossett break down the right saw Louis Spurr with enough space to provide a good chance for Charlie Mountain, who came charging in to meet the low cross but place his shot the wrong side of the post. Ossett were soon able to settle a bit more as Connor Daniel showed good strength to break and set up Joe Turfrey, who beat the defender for pace and pushed it past the keeper for 2-0 Ossett. Hartshead kept pressing and the Ossett defence couldn’t rest as James Ruane showed his awareness and anticipation to break up several attacks which, combined with his goal, earned him the player of the match nomination. Connor Daniel’s influence had been growing and a late header and a shot were both blocked at close range.
Ossett ended the game with the victory but both teams showed the Secker Cup Final should be a well-contested affair. By all accounts, Ossett’s performance was improved from Friday but they’ve still got a bit to go to reach their previous level.
16th APRIL 2010
HUDDERSFIELD LEAGUE UNDER 14’S THIRD DIVISION
“ALL’S WELL AT ROTHWELL"
ROTHWELL (1) 2 V OSSETT TOWN B (2) 6
GOAL SCORERS: MO SIDAT, ADAM HORSFALL, JACK LONSDALE, WAQAS AWAD, CHRIS SCOTT 2.
MAN OF THE MATCH: MARTIN PRESTON
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town kicked off the match facing a very different team to the one they convincingly beat earlier on in the season.
Town started with a different line up to usual, as Adam Horsfall and Mo Sidat partnered up front, Jazz Ahmed and Chris Scott covered the wings. Midfield saw Alex Hall and Jack Lonsdale, whilst the defensive line was Tom Hobson, Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Will Dann. The keeper was Tom Rogers.
On a good pitch the game started evenly with Ossett having some great possession but finding the pacey Rothwell forward a handful.
Ossett were starting to look a little uneasy and finding it difficult to get their passing game going, it needed a trademark Ossett goal to settle the nerves, and on six minutes Adam Horsfall found space on the left post after some great play from Waqas Awad and Jazz Ahmed, to slot home Town’s first.
Again Rothwell kept pressing but they found Martin Preston and Waqas Awad in great form.
On ten minutes Chris Scott swung in a corner and the keeper was unable to prevent the ball from crossing the line as Mo Sidat came flying in.
Again the home side kept pressing and Ossett were finding it difficult to take control of the game and were leaving gaps in the midfield for Rothwell to exploit. Both Chris Scott and Will Dann were having to work hard to cover these areas.
Ossett kept pressing with Adam Horsfall, Mo Sidat coming close and Alex Hall hitting the woodwork.
Again the defence were having to be at their best as with almost every throw in was ending in the Ossett area thanks to a Rothwell winger who’s throw was better than a corner. But keeper Tom Rogers was up to the task as he made some great saves.
The game was now going from end to end and it was difficult to predict who was going to score the next goal. It was Rothwell who scored after another massive throw that the defence failed to clear.
As the half drew to a close Rothwell were taking control and were awarded a penalty. Could Tom Rogers save a penalty yet again? Yes! after a great diving save to his left.
The half time score was 1-2, and the home side might consider themselves a little unlucky to be behind.
The second half saw a rejuvenated Ossett take to the field and were soon in control of the game.
All the Town players were now wanting the ball and finding their passing game coming together.
Within ten minutes of the kick off Ossett found themselves 4-1 up as both Chris Scott and Mo Sidat scored some great individual goals.
Ossett’s fifth came after Alex Hall won the ball in midfield, found Mo Sidat who pulled the ball back to Jack Lonsdale to score into the corner.
Rothwell were now finding it hard to cope with the pace of Chris Scott and Mo Sidat as Town pressed for a sixth.
Again it was Rothwell who scored after another long throw into the area.
With eight minutes to go it was Waqas Awad who settled the nerves with a fantastic strike from 25 metres out leaving the keeper no chance.
All the Ossett team were again playing as a unit and in complete control of the game. Waqas Awad and Martin Preston were having a great game in defence, Ryan White and Liam Preston were working tirelessly, Adam Horsfall and Mo Sidat up front were hunting for another goal, and Chris Scott was having one of his best games of the season.
The final score saw Ossett win 6-2 after a great second half performance.
Man of the match went to Martin Preston who was back to his best.
Well done as again you had to dig in and grind out the result.
I apologise if this report has one or two errors as I had technical issues with the recorder!
Friday 16 April
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
HAFC 1 Ossett Town Juniors A 2
Goalscorers –Joe Turfrey and Ashley Young
Thursday 15 April
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 2 Penistone 2
Player of the Match – Joe Turfrey
Goalscorers –Daniel Wright and Jordan Woffinden
Town Pay the Pen in Score Draw
Town played out their return fixture with Penistone in the volcanic gloom of Gawthorpe as they looked to recapture their top form. Holiday absences saw Connor Daniel take his turn as stand-in keeper.
Early Ossett pressure forced Penistone onto the back foot as they pushed numbers into the box and carved a chance which ended up being headed clear by the keeper. Charlie Mountain shot wide from the resulting corner. Penistone responded as they had shown they could last week. Joe Pygott was involved making several strong tackles to defend the left side as Penistone tried to break down the wings. Ossett’s defence was being worked hard and when called upon Connor Daniel looked confident as he saved well from a strong shot. Daniel Sheen broke out of defence and played through Joe Turfrey who ran onto the ball on the left side of the box. The angle made it tough and his shot was saved.
Ossett were dominating possession now as Joe Turfrey and Jordan Woffinden were using the ball well looking to set Daniel Wright free as he showed his willingness to harass the Penistone defence. Charlie Mountain had another long range effort and then the midfield linked up before the ball moved out to Jordan Woffinden who set up Ashley Young – his snapshot was deflected wide for a corner. The game was being well contested in the midfield and Ossett were edging it with Billy Cundall and Ashley Young working well. Good work down the left involving Daniel Wright ended up with the ball reaching Joe Turfrey who knocked it wide from the edge of the six yard box. Jordan Woffinden’s passing was proving influential and he laid a pass on for Daniel Wright, whose control and power allowed him to smash home from the edge of the box for 1-0 Ossett.
Ossett’s confidence was up and Ashley Young showed some neat control as he helped Ossett push forward. Ossett’s pressure won a corner and Joe Turfrey’s flighted cross was headed in at close range by Jordan Woffinden for his first Ossett goal: 2-0 Ossett. Penistone responded before the break and strong play saw them run clear towards goal. Connor Daniel was out well to force an early shot and Joe Pygott showed great anticipation to run back and clear the danger. A deserved lead for Ossett but enough moments of danger from Penistone for Ossett not to rest easy.
The second half began with Ossett playing their best football of the match – passing to feet and keeping possession. Daniel Wright sent Joe Turfrey through but his first time shot was too high. Daniel Wright then tried a long range effort as Ossett looked to extend their lead. Joe Turfrey was looking to run at the Penistone defence and his passes were always dangerous, trying to cut through and set team mates up. His constant probing as well as hard work as he played all across the midfield earned him the player of the match award. Ossett’s defence was strong, with James Ruane and Louis Spurr both heavily involved winning tackles, and Daniel Sheen and Joe Pygott linking up well with the midfield as Penistone started to get back into the game.
Connor Daniel’s handling was safe and his distribution looked to find whoever was free so Ossett could push on. Louis Spurr was battling away as Penistone looked to move down the wings and Daniel Sheen was covering back well in the centre. Aaron Potter was winning the ball and linking up with Joe Pygott on the left as Ossett absorbed the pressure. Good play from Aaron as he played in Joe Turfrey to set up Daniel Wright for a shot. Penistone then worked the ball well down their left and were able to get to the by-line as they stretched Ossett. The ball was pulled back and finished from close range to make it 2-1. The game become more even as Penistone headed over from a corner before Aaron Potter put in a powerful shot. Charlie Mountain linked well with Jordan Woffinden and Daniel Wright, who turned and shot just wide with his left foot.
Ossett’s control and ability to keep hold of the ball had dropped throughout the half but Jordan Woffinden was showing the way as Ossett were holding on a bit. Daniel Sheen strode forward to take the game to Penistone and shot wide from long range. Penistone’s improved play and pressure built up into a goalmouth scramble and an award of a penalty for handball in the six-yard box as the ball bounced around. Despite a brave effort from Connor Daniel, Penistone took advantage to draw level at 2-2.
Another out-of-sorts game from Ossett as too many times ambitious long balls were played at the expense of keeping possession and showing their passing ability. Although an improved performance from last week’s match, with flashes of good play seen through the ash, it was still not enough to beat a hard-working Penistone team.
HUDDERSFIELD UNDER 14’S LEAGUE DIVISION THREE
‘‘OSSETT TOWN GO TOP OF LEAGUE AFTER A GREAT DISPLAY’’
SUNDAY 11TH APRIL
OSSETT TOWN B 7(3) V DEWSBURY RANGERS 2(2)
SCORERS: MO SIDAT 2, SAM PASHLEY 2 , JAZZ AHMED, CHRIS SCOTT
MAN OF THE MATCH: CHRIS SCOTT
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town played host to forth in the league Dewsbury Rangers knowing that they would have to be at their best if they were to get a result.
Town started with the usual 4-4-2 formation with Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat up front, the midfield saw Adam Horsfall on the right wing, Jack Lonsdale and Ryan White in center mid and Chris Scott on the left. The defensive line up consisted of Alex Hall, Waqas Awad, Martin Preston and Liam Preston, with Tom Rogers in goal.
From the whistle Ossett took the game to the opposition with Adam Horsfall soon in the thick of it.
Within four minutes Sam Pashley won the ball from midfield ran down the left wing and crossed into the box causing confusion in the area resulting in an own goal.
Dewsbury were trying to get into the game but were having no joy in getting past the midfield with both Ryan white and Jack Lonsdale in commanding form.
Another Ossett attack saw Chris Scott’s shot go just over the bar. Two minutes later Alex Hall forced a great save from the Dewsbury keeper from a great diving header.
As we know from previous encounters the Dewsbury front two can be a real handful, and one such break saw Tom Rogers dive at the feet of the number 9 to save a potential goal.
After 11 minutes Mo Sidat burst clear only to be hacked down. From the resulting free kick, which was, 25 metres out Mo hit a beauty into the top corner.
Every Ossett player were now into the game and working together as a unit.
Dewsbury were finding the pace of Sam Pashley hard to live with.
On 18 minutes Sam Pashley scored a superb goal. Alex Hall won the ball at left back, passed to Ryan White, Ryan saw Jack Lonsdale in space, Jack sent the ball over the defensive line, Sam then ran 25 metres to slot the ball into the corner, fantastic goal.
Dewsbury now had a great spell and on 25 minutes scored their first, but Ossett kept dominating and Ryan White and Adam Horsfall had shots well saved.
With two minutes to go Dewsbury scored again, as the half time whistle approached Adam Horsfall with one of his trademark bursts, beat three defenders to square the ball to the excellent Sam Pashley who hit the post.
The half time score was 3-2 and Ossett were left wondering how this had occurred after dominating most of the half.
The second half kicked off with no substitutions.
Dewsbury started the livelier forcing some great saves from Tom Rogers. All the Ossett players were playing as a team covering back to snub out the increasing Dewsbury attacks.
Mo Sidat again started to find space and saw his header come off the crossbar.
Within ten minutes Ossett were back into their stride, Jack Lonsdale dug the ball out from midfield saw Sam Pashley in space, Sam then hit a shot from 30 metres to leave the goalkeeper no chance.
Ossett now made a double substitution with Adam Horsfall and Chris Scott making way for Jazz Ahmed and Will Dann.
Within two minutes Mo Sidat picked up a pass from Ryan White, controlled the ball, turned and fired into the bottom corner.
Five minutes later the excellent Mo Sidat picked up a pass from Jack Lonsdale, saw Jazz Ahmed in space, Jazz controlled and fired into the bottom corner.
Another substitution saw Alex Hall and Jack Lonsdale make way for Chris Scott and Adam Horsfall.
Ossett were now in total control of the game with every player giving 100%. Dewsbury attacks were snubbed out by the superb defense. Martin and Liam Preston, Waqas Awad and Will Dann were winning every header and turning defense into attack.
With six minutes to go Sam Pashley had yet another fantastic break only to see his shot go wide.
As the full time whistle approached there was time for Chris Scott to score a very well deserved goal, after Mo Sidat again took control of the ball and laid it off for Chris to score into the bottom corner.
The game ended 7-2 to Ossett Town who now deservedly go top of the league.
The man of the match went to Chris Scott for his gutsy display.
This was Ossett Town back to their very best, beating a very capable side.
Every player should be proud of their individual performances and the way you played for each other and for the team, fantastic stuff!
If you can play like this for the rest of the season you will be champions.
OSSETT TOWN COME AWAY WITH THREE POINTS AFTER A “HECK” OF A FIGHT
FRIDAY 9th APRIL
HECKMONDWIKE 5(2) V OSSETT TOWN B 6(4)
SCORERS: WACAS AWAD, MO SIDAT, ADAM HORSFALL 2, RYAN WHITE, SAM PASHLEY.
MAN OF THE MATCH: MO SIDAT
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town traveled away to Heckmondwike and from the kick off found a very determined team belying their bottom three league position.
The home team took the game to Ossett and captain Ryan White was soon having to wake some of the team up out of their Easter slumbers.
Keeper Tom Rogers was soon called upon to make some early saves.
Ossett now started to get into the game with both the upfront pairing of Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat going close.
On five minutes a Ryan White corner saw Waqas Awad on hand to slot the ball into the bottom corner.
Again Heckmondwike kept pressing and Defenders Waqas Awad and Will Dann were having to work hard to stop them from equalizing.
But as we know from past matches Town can be very dangerous on the counter attack. One such move saw Will Dann pick up the ball from left back, run half the pitch to find Mo Sidat in space to make the score 0-2.
On a narrow and undulating pitch Ossett were still finding it hard to settle and play their usual fluid passing game, and on 15 minutes the home side found room to score.
Ossett responded with Adam Horsfall tacking matters into his own hands and scoring a great individual goal.
The next five minutes saw Ossett take control of the game with Mo Sidat, Adam Horsfall and Alex Hall forcing the home keeper to make some great saves.
After another great effort from Alex Hall the keeper was not able to take control of the ball and Ryan white was on hand to chip over him to make the score 1-4.
Surely Ossett had the game in the bag! Not so was the Heckmondwike response as they pressed again and both Jack Lonsdale and Ryan White had to make some tremendous tackles to prevent them from scoring. But with five minutes to go they found the net to make the score 2-4.
As the half drew to a close there was still time to see the superb Adam Horsfall and the tenacious Jaz Ahmed go close to scoring.
The second half saw a rejuvenated Ossett take to the field and within 5 minutes had extended the score to 2-5 after another counter attack, which saw Jaz Ahmed take the ball out of defense, run up the field to find Sam Pashley in space, Sam then held up the ball until Adam Horsfall ran into the box to score a great goal.
Five minutes later Adam turned provider this time for Sam Pashley to slot in to make the score 2-6.
Surely this time Ossett were home and dry!
Not so! as Heckmondwike took control of the game and within 15 minutes had taken the score to 5-6 and were pressing for the equalizer. With five minutes to go could Ossett hang on? Waqas Awad, Martin Preston, Will Dann and Chris Scott were having to make some desperate tackles to prevent this from happening.
As the game drew to a close Sam Pashley took the ball from half way ran to the area and his shot went just wide.
The final whistle blew to see Ossett win 6-5 much to the relief of the visiting supporters and players alike.
The after match team talk was a rather somber affair as certain players had to admit to themselves that they did not perform.
But three points are three points no matter how they are gained.
Man of the match went to Mo Sidat for his performance both in attack and defense when required.
This was a tough call for James as Adam Hosfall, Jack Lonsdale and Ryan White all battled hard for this victory when not all of the team were at there best.
On Sunday you face Dewsbury Rangers and you will have to be at your best to get the result.
You know you can do it!
Friday 9 April
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 6 Meltham 2
Players of the Match – Daniel Sheen and Daniel Wright
Goalscorers – Connor Daniel (4), Daniel Wright and Charlie Mountain
Ossett Get That Friday Feeling
Ossett wanted to get back into winning ways as they faced a Meltham team who’d proved tough opponents way back at the start of the season.
Ossett started brightly, looking sharp from the off, in contrast to their previous outing. Daniel Sheen made an interception and played a lovely through ball for Joe Turfrey – the Meltham keeper had to be on his toes to come out and collect. A high ball from the back was watched carefully by Connor Daniel who was able to control and place his shot into the far corner for 1-0 Ossett. Daniel Wright was making his usual strong runs into the box as Ossett were causing Meltham plenty of problems. Joe Turfrey was coming deep to collect the ball and using it to good effect. A long range free kick was played deep into the box by Daniel Wright which, with Daniel Sheen’s run distracting the keeper, bounced into the top corner for 2-0 Ossett. Ossett went looking for more – Ashley Young’s clever head on allowed Connor Daniel to shoot powerfully, with his parried shot falling to Charlie Mountain, whose shot was eventually cleared.
Meltham had settled now and showed good spirit to press Ossett with good team defending keeping them out, James Ruane and Daniel Sheen claiming headers and clearing their lines. Ashley Young responded for Ossett with a shot from the edge of the box which was pushed round the post for a corner. Daniel Wright showed good control to get a long range shot in but it was just too high. Ossett caught Meltham on the break as Daniel Wright sent a massive throw-in downfield and seemed to catch the defence flat-footed as Connor Daniel was able to power past them and score at the second attempt for 3-0 Ossett.
Ossett were causing problems whenever they went forward but Meltham showed their quality to give Ossett a scare before the interval. Two good crosses from their right were finished clinically from close range. In between their goals Connor Daniel had a piledriver turned over by the keeper and Daniel Wright had a shot closed down and cleared. Louis Spurr was tackling strongly to keep Meltham out but 3-2 at the break meant Ossett had something to think about.
Jordan Woffinden showed good footwork as he helped Ossett regain control at the start of the second half. He linked up well with Daniel Wright and Louis Spurr as Ossett got back to playing their football. A smart Ossett move on the right led to a cross reaching the far post where Charlie Mountain finished well to make it 4-2. Meltham didn’t give up and again Louis Spurr was in the thick of the battle as Ossett had to defend their lead. Joe Turfrey lined up a free kick as Ossett regained the momentum but the finish was too high. The goal kick was headed back at them by Connor Daniel and Joe Turfrey sprinted onto it and, as the keeper rushed out, he knocked it past him only for it to come back off the post into the keeper’s arms.
A moment which encapsulated the joint player of the match award saw Daniel Sheen produce a dangerous run, right up to the Meltham area, and fire in a shot which was well saved. As the gap in central defence had opened up Daniel Wright dropped back to cover and stayed there until Ossett regained their shape. Both players worked non-stop throughout the game and couldn’t be split to share the award. Soon it was Daniel Wright with the shot after a nice turn in the box. A Daniel Sheen through ball set Connor Daniel up perfectly as he ran on and placed his shot passed the keeper for a hat-trick and 5-2 Ossett.
Joe Pygott was strong on the left – tackling and breaking forward when he could. Aaron Potter was battling away up and down the right to create chances. Ossett were now dominating as they weathered a spirited Meltham response. Billy Cundall controlled the ball well in the box and turned trying to fire a shot in. The ball fell into the path of Connor Daniel who showed good technique to squeeze the ball past the keeper for his fourth and 6-2 Ossett.
Overall a good performance from Ossett as they were able to deal with whenever Meltham stepped up their game. Meltham never gave up but Ossett are able to enjoy their weekend after a good Friday night’s work.
Thursday 8 April
Huddersfield League Division One
Penistone 4 Ossett Town Juniors A 3
Player of the Match – Connor Daniel
Goalscorers – Own Goal, Joe Turfrey and Joe Pygott
Ossett Lose Their Way at Penistone
Ossett faced Penistone for the first time this season as they began their busy run of re-arranged fixtures. Once everyone had located the ground (right at The Spar, first left and then second left – cheers mate) Ossett were looking to get some league points on the board after their two recent losses.
Ossett began brightly with a strong tackle from Billy Cundall winning possession in the middle allowing Connor Daniel’s run to earn a corner. A spell of Ossett pressure ended with a Joe Turfrey shot bouncing before the goal and, to the surprise of the keeper, trickling against the post. A hard bouncy pitch made for a difficult surface to control the ball but when Penistone settled they showed they were more comfortable in the conditions – and did so throughout the match. Daniel Sheen, Louis Spurr and Aaron Potter all made solid defensive tackles as Penistone stepped up the pressure. They showed plenty of pace on the break and stand-in keeper Charlie Mountain was brave as he raced out to protect his goal – Louis Spurr kept on running and was able to clear the shot off the line. Ossett responded with Connor Daniel putting the Penistone defence and keeper under pressure by chasing a loose ball in the box and forcing a mistake and an own goal as Ossett went 1-0 up.
Penistone continued to press and Ben Fox had to be alert to make a strong headed clearance. Ossett were always under pressure as they couldn’t keep hold of the ball. Another near miss from Penistone as they surged forward and had a shot smash the bar and bounce down and eventually cleared amongst mayhem in the Ossett box. It wasn’t clear the ball had crossed the line so was rightly not awarded but another big warning to Ossett. Aaron Potter showed good control on the right to set up a Joe Turfrey shot as Ossett tried to relieve the pressure. Daniel Wright was putting in the yards up front by closing down and harrying the Penistone defence. Penistone still looked more composed and Charlie Mountain made an excellent save only for his goal to be breached minutes later when a good cross from the left was bundled in at close range for 1-1.
The equaliser had been coming and Ossett realised they needed to step up their play. Aaron Potter’s left foot shot looped up and dipped just the wrong side of the bar before Daniel Wright showed smart control before smashing his shot onto the bar. Both Connor Daniel and Joe Turfrey did well to work themselves into shooting positions. Aaron Potter showed good determination to break up a Penistone attack and the ball broke to Ashley Young who played a neat pass to Connor Daniel, who was able to play in Joe Turfrey on the left side of the box as he took a touch and then fired in for 2-1 Ossett. Although Ossett had been second best for most of the first half they nearly extended their lead just before the break with a James Ruane header going wide.
The second half started well for Penistone as they were awarded a penalty for hand ball. Charlie Mountain made a valiant effort in getting a hand to the ball but the powerfully struck shot made it 2-2. Penistone’s tails were up as they fired another shot over. A break down the right saw a cross driven in to the near post and, after it had pinged about the Ossett six-yard box, Penistone turned it in for a 3-2 lead. It was the first time Ossett had gone behind in the game and they responded with Connor Daniel breaking down the right to fire in a shot. Joe Pygott was looking to get forward whenever he could and Daniel Wright was working hard as Ossett pressed for another breakthrough with James Ruane heading another corner over the bar.
Aaron Potter put a nice ball through for Connor Daniel who ran down the right and crossed the ball for the onrushing Joe Pygott to place it in the top corner with the side of his right foot. 3-3. Daniel Sheen was strong at the back as it was Penistone who pushed again. Louis Spurr and Ben Fox were covering the Penistone runners as Ossett defended their area. A Penistone direct free kick took a slight deflection but was well held by Charlie Mountain.
A crucial couple of minutes then decided the match. An Ossett break and finish by Joe Turfrey was disallowed for offside and Penistone had another direct free kick. As if the earlier one had been a practice, this time Penistone placed it high and wide of the keeper to take a 4-3 lead with time running out. Ossett pressed in the last few minutes with Connor Daniel leading the charge. A nice passing move led to a Connor Daniel shot across goal. Connor’s drive and determination throughout the match earned him the player of the match award. Billy Cundall, Ashley Young, Joe Turfrey and Daniel Wright were all working the ball round trying to prise an opening but Penistone defended well. Joe Turfrey’s first time shot flashed just wide and was the last kick of the game.
A disappointing result but not one of Ossett’s better performances means there could be no complaints over the result. By never getting to grips with the pitch Ossett didn’t play with their usual confidence on the ball. Through battling and some determination Ossett made it a close game – a bit of luck might have earned a draw but well played Penistone. Ossett’s spirit was epitomised by volunteer stand-in keeper Charlie Mountain who put himself about bravely all game. Ossett now need to find their way back to form for the remainder of the season.
Sunday, 28 March
"SILKY TOWN BACK TO THEIR BEST"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
SILKSTONE 0 - 9 OSSETT TOWN B
Scorers: Ryan White (3), Mo Sidat (3), Sam Pashley (2), Chris Scott
Man of the Match: Jack Lonsdale
Report by Brian Hobson
Ossett played their best football for several weeks as they cruised to a comfortable win to make it 6 points from 2 days.
On an excellent flat pitch with the wind not as strong as the previous day, Town were on top from the start. They retained the 4-3-3 formation from the second half against Albion, this time the versatile Liam Preston joining Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat up front, with Jack Lonsdale, Ryan White and Jaz Ahmed the midfield trio, and were ahead within 2 minutes. Sam Pashley fired one in from wide on the right – he claimed it was a shot, but some of us suspected a cross!
5 minutes later it was 2-0, when Liam Preston beat the offside trap and knocked it past the keeper. It may have just gone in anyway, but Mo Sidat wasn’t taking any chances as he followed in and put it in the net. There were no doubts about the 3rd goal on 10 minutes – Mo Sidat glided past 2 defenders and slotted it in.
Town were passing the ball much better by now – no hopeful punts forward in the hope that the forwards might get to them, this time passes were being exchanged, players were running into space, and the players remembered that the easy ball is usually the best one. At the back, Josh Hartshorne, Waqas Awad, Martin Preston and Alex Hall had little to do in the way of defending, but they set the tone for the rest of the team as they kept the ball moving and looked to always pass their way out of any danger. They used the midfield players instead of by-passing them.
Midway through the half, Ryan White burst into life with 2 excellent quickfire goals. First he beat 2 opponents before firing in from 22 metres, then he blasted in a low shot after his corner was cleared back to him.
Alex Hall made a good forward run only for the keeper to save his shot, Liam Preston had a terrific shot brilliantly saved and Jack Lonsdale’s good shot went just wide as Town continued to do all the pressing, with Tom Rogers a spectator in goal. 4 minutes before the break Ossett made it 6-0 when Mo Sidat’s free kick was saved and Ryan White tapped in the rebound to complete his hat-trick.
Latecomer Chris Scott and under-the-weather Tom Hobson came on at half-time, and Town were quickly back on the front foot as they went looking for more goals. Sam Pashley had a shot blocked after a good Mo Sidat run, but to their credit Silkstone tried to get forward when they could and had a shot which went just wide.
The home keeper produced 2 wonderful saves from Jack Lonsdale’s header and Mo Sidat’s volley, but on 45 minutes he was eventually beaten when Mo Sidat got to Ryan White’s pass, rounded the keeper and tapped it in for his hat-trick.
Tom Rogers showed the concentration you look for in a keeper when he was called into real action for the first time as Silkstone broke away down the middle, and he was out quickly to block.
With 10 minutes remaining came the goal of the match, Chris Scott finding space and racing away down the left before putting in a delicious cross which Sam Pashley met with an equally good header. Two minutes from time Scott managed to get himself on the scoresheet as he skipped past 2 challenges in the area before stabbing it home.
On a pleasant spring day on a good surface, Town showed the kind of football we know they are capable of, and it’s a pity the Easter break comes at a time when their confidence is back. It was particularly pleasing to see the midfield players, despite trying to get forward whenever they could, prepared to work back and cover their defensive colleagues whenever necessary. It’s hard to believe that Town still have half their league games to play, so there is still an awful lot of hard work to do, but as long as they continue to play for the team and play good football they can achieve much by the time the season ends.
Man of the match could have gone to any of the 13 on duty (well done to the defence and keeper for keeping a clean sheet), but Jack Lonsdale’s tireless running, good passing and strong tackling in midfield got him the nod.
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 1 Collegians 4
Player of the Match – Daniel Sheen
Goalscorer – Connor Daniel
Ossett clock a lesson from Collegians
Ossett welcomed Collegians to Bywell for the return game after their recent close encounter when Collegians had edged a five goal game. With the clocks going forward to signal British Summer Time, the heavy pitch and blustery wind meant the game would be played on Bywell Time: big coats, woolly hats and gloves. That was just the players.
Ossett won the toss and played uphill first half knowing the conditions would favour Collegians and their early pressure confirmed this. Joe Pygott was involved, putting in some good tackles at left back and trying to find a man when in possession. Ossett had to be on their toes and both Billy Cundall and Louis Spurr made good headed clearances. Daniel Wright was Ossett’s outlet and a long range free kick was hit at the keeper and a strong run and break looked promising before being crowded out as Daniel Sheen had broken from defence in the middle. Ossett seemed to have settled when Collegians won a throw deep into Ossett territory on the left. The markers all seemed to have picked up but the throw flew a long way into the box where a deep running attacker knocked it past keeper Alex Campbell from close range for 1-0 Collegians.
Ossett responded with Daniel Wright again causing problems. Billy Cundall was his usual energetic self in the middle helping win possession and Ashley Young trying to prise an opening in the Collegians’ rearguard. Ossett were defending well – Joe Pygott standing up the attackers, Daniel Sheen making clean tackles and Alex Campbell being alert to come out, as a high ball was caught by the wind, and put pressure on the attacker who knocked it high and wide. Joe Pygott did well to win the ball and send it down the left for Joe Turfrey who managed to get his cross in but there was too much on it. Another long range free kick this time by Daniel Sheen went straight to the keeper. Charlie Mountain was probing on the right of midfield and linking well with Daniel Wright – a move broke to Joe Turfrey whose first time shot went wide. A weighted through ball by Joe Turfrey had Daniel Wright speeding towards goal but the Collegians keeper read it well and just beat him to the ball. The Ossett pressure paid off when Joe Turfrey put Connor Daniel in with another excellent ball. Connor’s control and cut back fooled everyone as he then placed it past the keeper for 1-1.
An even game now but Collegians were prompted to push forward again. Daniel Sheen had to show his quality with some more great tackles and headers. His consistency throughout the game and ability to play further forward meant he stood out and deservedly clinched the player of the match award. Ossett were still a threat and Charlie Mountain and Daniel Wright inter-changed passes as they stretched Collegians down the right. Collegians rallied again and gained a corner, floating in a dangerous cross which was cleanly headed for 2-1. The lack of challenge for the ball was disappointing from an Ossett view but the half ended with the score line reflecting the balance of play.
Ossett were looking to use the wind and downhill attacks to their advantage in the second half. Gauging the pass would be crucial and it proved difficult all game. Collegians had the first shot on target – an easy one for Alex Campbell – and kept up their attacks with fluent play. Strong play on the left of the box got them past the Ossett defence and a powerful shot made it 3-1. Ossett weren’t at their usual game but still kept on looking for a way back. Aaron Potter was driving forward on the right of midfield and won a free kick. Collegians were always dangerous and Louis Spurr won some strong tackles to keep them at bay.
Another dangerous Collegians break saw them get behind the Ossett defence and pull the ball back only for the first time shot to rebound off the post. The most alert Ossett defender was Daniel Sheen who helped clear the ball. Play then went down the other end where Connor Daniel showed excellent close control to keep the ball at his feet amongst the tackles and get his shot in. Alex Campbell then had to be alert to watch the ball carefully and claim it safely. As play became more end to end Connor Daniel made a good run which ended up winning a corner. Aaron Potter was working up and down the right hand side and Daniel Wright and Joe Turfrey were tracking back in an effort to win possession. Excellent play by Joe Turfrey to find space allowed him to feed Connor Daniel, who ran across the defender to shoot but the shot curled away from goal.
Joe Turfrey and Connor Daniel were Ossett’s main threats as the game neared the end. Connor had a couple of shots saved by the well-positioned keeper as he’d tried to find an angle to deceive him. Joe continued to put over crosses, but there was nobody to get on the end of them, before nice skill set him up for a shot from distance which went wide. Alex Campbell still had to make a low save as Collegians looked to take advantage of Ossett’s desire to break forward. Daniel Sheen was more advanced and Billy Cundall lying deeper. James Ruane kept battling away until the end. One final Collegians break saw a trip in the box and a penalty converted to make it 4-1. Daniel Sheen missed out on a deserved consolation goal when breaking through to fire over in the last minute.
A disappointing team performance from Ossett – a come down from their recent highs – but a convincing win by Collegians, congratulations to them. To do the double over this Ossett team shows their quality. As well as resetting their clocks Ossett can reset their game and put the lessons from this match to good use for the rest of the season.
"OSSETT DERBY WIN FOR TOWN AS ALBION ARE BLOWN AWAY"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
OSSETT ALBION 3 - 6 OSSETT TOWN B
Scorers: Sam Pashley (4), Mo Sidat, Adam Horsfall
Man of the Match: The Whole Team
27th March 2010
Report by Brian Hobson
The long-awaited first league meeting between these local rivals saw Town fight back to emerge with the points and local bragging rights with a good 2nd half display.
Town began kicking into a fierce wind, which made it difficult for both teams to play good football. They looked as if it wouldn’t bother them, though, when Mo Sidat struck the post in the 2nd minute after good work by Adam Horsfall.
The match then settled into an even midfield contest, though Albion were picking up most of the loose balls. However it was Town who got the first goal after 11 minutes when Sam Pashley chased a long ball, showed tenacity to get past the keeper and slotted it in.
Town then had a better spell as Ryan White, Chris Scott, Adam Horsfall and Jack Lonsdale began to get hold of the midfield, and Horsfall nearly doubled Town’s advantage only for his shot to be cleared off the line.
Town’s back 4 of Alex Hall, Waqas Awad, and Liam and Martin Preston worked tirelessly but struggled to get the ball clear against such a strong wind, however, and Albion deservedly got back on level terms on 18 minutes with a goal through the middle. Buoyed by this, Albion took the lead 2 minutes later when Town’s defence failed to deal with a high ball.
The pressure was now on Town, but they showed their character by battling back and beginning to get back on top, inspired by Ryan White’s work rate in midfield. However the hosts were always dangerous, and it took a good Tom Rogers save to keep the deficit at 1 goal. Just before the break it was all square, though; Mo Sidat was tackled through the middle but the ball broke to Sam Pashley who scored well.
With Jaz Ahmed and Josh Hartshorne bolstering the side at the break, Town were confident that with the wind at their backs the 2nd half would be a different contest, and so it proved as they struck 3 goals in the opening 11 minutes. The first came just after the interval with Mo Sidat’s far-post header from Ryan White’s dangerous corner, and the belief that started to spread through the Town ranks was tangible. Where they had struggled against the wind and a determined Albion side before half time, suddenly their passing was crisper and to feet.
It was no surprise when Town made it 4-2 on 44 minutes, Mo Sidat beating 2 defenders before passing it inside for Sam Pashley to complete his hat-trick, then 2 minutes later it was 5-2 as Adam Horsfall flicked home Ryan White’s corner.
With Martin Preston and Josh Hartshorne playing well in defence, Town were well in command, though the elements made sure the game remained a fairly scrappy affair. Albion’s cause wasn’t helped when their impressive keeper had to go off injured, and Town tried to capitalise on their advantage; Jaz Ahmed headed a long throw just wide, and Ryan White just missed the target with 2 good shots.
Any lingering hopes Albion had of a fightback were extinguished by a pivotal period of play on the hour. Tom Rogers made a fine save for Town, and within seconds Adam Horsfall’s pass sent Sam Pashley away down the right and he beat the defender, kept his head and scored well; it might have been 5-3 but instead it was 6-2.
Albion did pull a good goal back 5 minutes from time when the Town defence were all drawn to the ball leaving 2 unmarked, but the game was won by then.
Town can go to school with their heads held high on Monday, and after last week’s defeat it was vital that they got back to winning ways quickly. Both teams struggled to play good football in such windy conditions, and at times it was a war of attrition in the midfield. The players need to learn to adapt to the conditions – too many times in the first half they seemed surprised that the ball carried as far as it did, and they should have taken a few steps back to get behind it. However, they showed good character and didn’t let their heads drop when behind, and in the end deserved the win.
Such a good battling performance meant the whole team shared the man of the match award.
Sunday 21 March
Huddersfield Junior Football League U14 League Cup Semi Final
Ossett Town Juniors A 4 Brighouse Town 1
Goalscorers – Connor Daniel (2), Joe Turfrey and Daniel Wright
Player of the Match – Connor Daniel
Ossett get on their bike to the final
Ossett faced a top quality Brighouse in the League Cup semi final at Leeds Road knowing they would need to be at their best to get through. The amount of runners and cyclists on the road during the journey to the game was hard to believe. Maybe all those bikes inspired what was to come.
The early stages saw Brighouse dominate possession and Ossett had to defend as a team, getting their foot in. Daniel Wright was a lone figure up front, working hard to close down defenders without much support. Alex Campbell pulled off a good low save as a Brighouse attacker was not closed down and allowed to run across the edge of the box and shoot. Brighouse continued to build up the pressure, shooting wide from a corner. Ossett’s defence worked hard as a unit to keep them out. Brighouse were pulling the strings in midfield and another move down their right led to a low cross to an onrushing attacker who blasted into the net for 1-0 Brighouse. A deserved lead for the team who’d settled best.
Ossett needed to respond as it looked ominous at this point. Daniel Wright broke out from a defensive corner and ran the length of the pitch but wasn’t able to get in a cross. Then Joe Turfrey did well to win a corner. At least some signs the required lift in performance was coming. An absolutely outstanding piece of skill was about to turn the game. A smart move along Ossett’s right broke down but great pressing by Daniel Wright meant a pressured clearance. The ball arrived at pace to Connor Daniel. His first touch, on the volley, allowed him to control it. The ball was still head high but then, with his back to goal, Connor executed a perfect bicycle kick into the corner for the equaliser. The keeper didn’t have a chance. Brilliant skill in a big game makes it more of a privilege to watch – think Klaus Fischer in the 1982 World Cup semi final, only this one was better. Good old Klaus knew a thing or two about overhead kicks – just get yourself on YouTube and this one would be right up there. Clearly buzzing, Ossett were in the mood. A great free kick by Daniel Sheen was launched into the Brighouse box. The ball bounced around for a bit before Joe Turfrey caught it sweetly with his right boot on the edge of the box – the ball flew sweetly into the far corner. Within two minutes the game had turned on its head at 2-1 Ossett.
Ossett were now inspired and the midfield were first to every ball and short, crisp passing replaced long balls as Ashley Young, Charlie Mountain and Billy Cundall helped consolidate Ossett’s position. The increase in confidence saw shots from Daniel Wright, Billy Cundall and Connor Daniel as half time arrived with Ossett’s tails up.
Ossett started again where they’d left off. Aaron Potter was involved on the right and fired in a couple of dangerous crosses. Daniel Wright went on another strong run only to fire over. Brighouse are not a team to lie down and have plenty of quality as they attempted to get back into the game. Pressure in Ossett’s goalmouth meant Alex Campbell had to be alert and did well to get something on the ball before it was eventually cleared. The game became end to end as Aaron Potter and Louis Spurr broke well together down the right. Billy Cundall was strong in the middle, protecting his back four. Connor Daniel set up Joe Turfrey for a shot from long range which looked destined for the top corner before just floating wide. A Brighouse break led to a shot from the edge of the box only for a great tip over by Alex Campbell to keep it out. Daniel Sheen had to get in a fantastic tackle to again keep Brighouse at bay.
Another piece of quality extended Ossett’s lead. The ball broke in the Brighouse area and Joe Turfrey picked it up tight on the by-line. He was able to take a look and send over a superb cross to find Daniel Wright a couple of yards out to nod in for 3-1 Ossett. Brighouse stepped up again and Alex Campbell had to be at his best again to keep out another powerful effort. The defence of Daniel Sheen, James Ruane, Ben Fox and Louis Spurr closed down, blocked and tackled to stem Brighouse’s flow. Neat close control by Daniel Wright allowed him to turn and fire in a low shot across the face of goal as Ossett continued to look for more. Connor Daniel picked up the ball in the middle of the park and set off on a direct run before side-footing it past the keeper for 4-1 Ossett. This capped a display of outstanding skill to clinch the player of the match for Connor.
Brighouse still looked to get forward when they could but Ossett’s control meant they were largely reduced to long range efforts. Alex Campbell did well to watch one high in the wind to collect under the cross bar. Joe Pygott was breaking down the left and found some space as he helped keep up the attacking momentum. This was important as Brighouse’s pressure earned them a couple of dangerous free kicks outside the box. Alex Campbell was able to watch them fly over his goals as Ossett saw out the last couple of minutes to clinch a deserved win.
An excellent match as the message to Ossett is don’t stop believing on the journey to the final. The whole team put in a fantastic display and more along these lines will be required in the final against Deighton. A game to remember with one extra special goal to stick in the memory.
100% RECORD GOES AS KEXBOROUGH STAGE COMEBACK
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3 Ossett Town 2 – 4 Kexborough
Scorers: Sam Pashley (2)
21st March 2010
Match Report by Brian Hobson
The battle of Division 3’s two unbeaten teams ended in a win for the visitors after Town dropped their first league points, letting a 2 goal half-time lead slip away in a disappointing 2nd half showing.
Back on their home pitch for the first time since autumn, Town were quickly under pressure, and it took a terrific clearance off the line by Waqas Awad to prevent them going behind within 2 minutes. But Ossett soon started to get to grips with the game, despite the frenetic pace of the battle, and they came within inches of taking the lead themselves. A good Martin Preston pass sent Sam Pashley away, only for the keeper to brilliantly tip his thunderous drive onto the bar.
Ossett were now starting to control the midfield, with Jack Lonsdale battling particularly well, and most of the chances for the next 20 minutes fell their way. Mo Sidat touched Adam Horsfall’s excellent pass just wide, then he blasted over after ghosting past 3 defenders.
On 12 minutes the pressure paid off; Mo Sidat raced onto a long pass and when his shot was saved Sam Pashley was on hand to slide in the rebound.
With Alex Hall and Will Dann both giving strong performances down the left, Town were now well on top and the chances continued to fall their way. Sam Pashley blasted a great shot just wide, and Will Dann wasn’t quite able to force Sam Pashley’s cross in at the far post.
Town did manage to increase their lead on 20 minutes with a controversial goal; Sam Pashley looked offside as he collected Alex Hall’s pass, but he played to the whistle and fired it home.
Well on top at this stage, Town looked set to go on and win comfortably, despite Kexborough showing their good defensive qualities that have clearly served them well all season. A fine Liam Preston pass sent Sam Pashley away, only for his shot to be blocked, and Ryan White hit a good shot just over from 25 yards out.
The last 5 minutes saw Town’s defence tested as Kexborough applied pressure, and Martin Preston had to put in 2 good challenges. It looked as though they had pulled a goal back, only for Alex Hall to appear from nowhere to brilliantly head off the line.
Jaz Ahmed came on at half time on the left wing, but Ossett started the 2nd half on the back foot, and on 40 minutes Kexborough’s pressure told as they got back into the game with a good long-range shot with Town failing to get their challenges in. The goal visibly lifted the visitors, and it took a great tackle by Liam Preston to preserve Town’s advantage.
Ossett tried to get back on top, Ryan White bursting out of midfield only to shoot wide, and Sam Pashley getting to Mo Sidat’s pass only for the keeper to save. However in the 50th minute it was all square; again a good shot but again Town failing to get a meaningful challenge in during the build up.
Will Dann came back into the fray with Chris Scott unwell and Tom Hobson remaining an unused substitute, and Ossett nearly regained the lead when Adam Horsfall fired just wide from Sam Pashley’s excellent cross. However the visitors looked the more threatening, and with 12 minutes to go another moment of controversy saw them take the lead; this time a Kexborough player looked offside, but play went on and though Tom Rogers produced a wonderful save Kexborough forced home the rebound.
Town tried hard to get back on level terms, Adam Horsfall heading Ryan White’s cross just wide then having a fine shot well saved. However Kexborough wrapped up the points with 2 minutes remaining with a goal from a corner despite a clear push on a Town defender.
After getting into a winning position, Town’s 2nd half performance was well below their normal standards. Where they had dominated most of the 1st half, the 2nd period saw them second to the ball in all areas of the pitch. The players need to take away the lesson that they have to avoid complacency when in front, continue playing their football and take chances when they come so that a goal conceded does not become the signal for panic to set in. There’s still plenty to play for, and if Town were to win all their remaining games they would still finish top, but they cannot afford more slips like this.
DEJA VU FOR TOWN AS DEIGHTON END CUP DREAMS AGAIN
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Cup Quarter Final
Deighton 6 – 2 Ossett Town
Scorers: Ryan White, Sam Pashley Man of the Match: Tom Rogers & Martin Preston
14th March 2010
Match Report by Brian Hobson
For the second time this season, Town saw a fabulous cup run brought to a crashing halt by their nemesis Deighton.
Having been knocked out of the County Cup by the same side, Ossett knew they were in for a tough game, but after the good showing they put up that day they began full of confidence that this time they could pull off a victory over their opponents, despite a 2 division difference in their league status. Indeed, Town showed their intentions straight from the kick off, but nobody was able to get on the end of Sam Pashley’s fine run and cross.
Town changed their formation from their normal 4-4-2, with Mo Sidat playing behind Pashley to bolster the midfield, and the early sparring saw both sides create chances in a very even contest, not helped by the bobbly surface. Jack Lonsdale had a good shot which went just over and Adam Horsfall’s header from a Sam Pashley throw was well saved by the excellent home keeper.
At the other end Waqas Awad had to produce a brilliant tackle to prevent Deighton’s pacy forward getting through, while Deighton fired over when well placed 12 yards out. Play quickly went back up to the other end, with Jack Lonsdale unable to force home a Ryan White corner and both Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley having good shots well saved.
Midway through the half, the hosts got the breakthrough as their forward got to a long ball first and lobbed Town’s keeper Tom Rogers. However, Town refused to fold and were back level a minute later. Sam Pashley was pushed just outside the area, and Ryan White blasted in the resulting free kick.
Town were now in the ascendancy, and you can’t help thinking that if they had got in front at this stage the result could have been very different. A terrific run down the left wing by Will Dann showed Ossett’s new-found belief, and this was quickly followed by a great Mo Sidat run with Sam Pashley inches away from heading in his cross, then a fine Ryan White pass setting Sidat away only for the keeper to save well.
Deighton now showed their undoubted quality by coming back into the game, and Liam and Martin Preston and Josh Hartshorne all had to produce fine tackles. 2 minutes before the break Tom Rogers produced a wonderful save to keep out a free kick, but corners have been Town’s downfall in recent weeks and so it proved with the resulting one here, as Town’s players failed to attack it and clear their lines, allowing Deighton to regain the lead.
Town had more than held their own in the first period, and could easily have been going into the break ahead instead of behind, so the management resisted any temptation to make any changes during the interval.
Within 5 minutes of the restart, however, Deighton opened up a 3 goal lead with 2 good goals, although Town could have done more to get tackles in for the 3rd and for the 4th heads had clearly dropped.
Ossett responded by bringing on Chris Scott and Alex Hall on the left wing and left-back respectively, and within 4 minutes they had a foothold in the game again. A good Ryan White pass sent Mo Sidat away down the right, and from his excellent cross Sam Pashley headed in at the far post to make it 4-2.
Town’s newly re-found believe saw them get on top for a while, and a good Sam Pashley pass put Chris Scott away down the left only for the keeper to save well, then Ryan White fired just wide from 20 yards. Then on 49 minutes the hosts were given the opportunity to extend their lead with a harshly-awarded penalty when the Deighton player appeared to catch a defender’s leg as he tried to shoot. Justice was done, however, as Tom Rogers dived to his right to push the spot kick away.
From the resulting corner Alex Hall had to head off the line, but the reprieve was short-lived as Town conspired to present Deighton with another opportunity which they duly converted.
On 57 minutes it was 6-2 as Deighton got to a long ball first, and the last few minutes saw Tom Rogers produce a fine save while Jaz Ahmed had a shot saved for Town.
There was no shame in this defeat for Town. Against the side 3rd in Division 1, they probably had the better of the 1st half before Deighton showed their class as they stepped up a gear in the 2nd to finish deserving winners. To reach the last 8 is a terrific achievement in itself. Ossett may now only have the league to play for, but they have shown this season that they are good enough to challenge for top spot, and though there will be plenty of tough games still to come, at least they won’t have to play Deighton again!
There were plenty of fine performances today. Penalty king Tom Rogers (good saves throughout) and defender Martin Preston (a rock at the back) shared the man of the match honours, but all the players did themselves and the club proud.
Sunday, 14 March
Huddersfield League Cup, Quarter Final
Kexborough 0 Ossett Town Juniors A 2
Player of the Match – Joe Turfrey
Goalscorers – Daniel Wright and Joe Turfrey
Ossett’s Rolling Stones Gather No Moss.
This Cup Quarter Final matched up two determined teams in a competitive encounter. No quarter was asked or given – any request for it would have fallen on stony ground – as Ossett played their second tough game of the weekend.
Kexborough put early pressure on Ossett, who had to cope with the high bouncing ball on the firm ground. Kexborough were knocking the ball around confidently as befits a team unbeaten in the League so far this season. Billy Cundall was determined to wrestle control back in the middle of the park. Joe Turfrey and Daniel Wright began to stretch Kexborough before a well-taken short corner was fired over by Joe Turfrey for Daniel Wright to plant a header past the keeper for 1-0 Ossett. This settled Ossett down and Ashley Young showed some nice touches as Ossett began to play their natural game.
The Ossett defence were composed with decisive tackles and clearances repelling any Kexborough attacks. Passed clearances helped set up flowing moves, with Billy Cundall a willing outlet in midfield always ready to receive the ball. Connor Daniel was becoming more dominant as Ossett increased their pressure. A smart through ball by Daniel Wright played Connor in but the advancing keeper did well to gather at his feet. Kexborough were showing their resilience and kept pressing forward. Daniel Sheen used his pace to win the ball back on the edge of the box, with Ossett’s midfield dropping back to help out as Charlie Mountain cleared strongly. Play was becoming end-to-end and Daniel Wright side-footed a shot from outside the box, only for it to pass the wrong side of the post. Louis Spurr and Charlie Mountain were linking up well on the right. A smart Ossett counter-attack involving Ashley Young, Daniel Wright and Joe Turfrey put Louis Spurr through but the keeper was able to react first and gather the ball. Kexborough used a quickly taken throw to get behind the Ossett defence and put a shot against the outside of the post with James Ruane tidying up the clearance. Joe Turfrey finished the half with a shot saved by the keeper.
The second half saw Joe Turfrey playing deeper in the centre of midfield but he still tested the keeper early on to signal his intent. The pattern of the match had been established and Kexborough were still probing but finding the Ossett defence in resolute mood: Ben Fox was keeping the left side safe, James Ruane and Daniel Sheen were dominant in the middle and, when Louis Spurr moved into midfield, Aaron Potter stepped in to keep a good balance to the team.
Daniel Wright was again running at the defence to keep them on their toes. Joe Turfrey was providing plenty of balls to supply Ossett, as well as smashing a free kick over the bar from long range. Joe was tackling back and showing great determination to win possession. His dynamism kept Ossett on the front foot and his player of the match display was capped by a smartly taken goal floated over the keeper, into the far corner, for 2-0 Ossett.
Kexborough didn’t give up and Alex Campbell was alert to gather a low free kick. He was also in top form as he made a great one-on-save and then a strong punch out from a free kick showed his confidence was high. Ossett were still trying to extend their lead and Joe Pygott was prominent with some strong tackles and neat play to run with the ball to play Connor Daniel in, who lifted his shot over the bar. Dominic Sykes made his presence felt up and down the left, as well as in the middle, as Kexborough pushed players forward in search of a goal.
Ossett’s ability to adapt to the circumstances of the game, with every player giving his all, meant a difficult encounter was won without conceding a goal. Kexborough will give anybody a game but Ossett can be pleased to progress into the semi final as the games keep rolling along.
Saturday, 13 March
Huddersfield League Division One
Collegians 3 Ossett Town Juniors A 2
Player of the Match – Jordan Woffinden
Goalscorers – Connor Daniel and Daniel Wright
Sunday, 7 March
Huddersfield League Cup, Round 3
Ossett Town Juniors A 3 Netherton 1
Player of the Match – Louis Spurr
Goalscorers – Dominic Sykes, Connor Daniel and Daniel Wright
Ossett through to Quarter Final
Just like Ossett’s performance, this match report has taken its time to get going and had to overcome a hardworking opposition that packed its defence before finally getting its act together to resume business as normal.
Netherton settled first and Ossett had some early defending to do as they worked out the changes to their line-up. Netherton’s pressure down their left paid off as a cross looped up inside the area and, following an unfortunate Ossett slip, Netherton’s attacker was able to place the ball into the far corner passed Alex Campbell for a 1-0 lead. Joe Turfrey was playing a deeper midfield position at this stage, putting some tackles in and had a couple of long range efforts, as well as a couple of decent corners which nobody could get a touch on. Ossett were beginning to put some passes together as Connor Daniel became more involved. Charlie Mountain then had a chance blocked before Daniel Sheen put in an excellent cross which was met by Dominic Sykes, only for the keeper to make the save.
Joe Turfrey was then back into the action with a dribble that beat three of four players but only took him to the edge of the box. A long range shot from the same player was then tipped round the post. Netherton were working extremely hard to protect their lead by getting players behind the ball whenever Ossett were in possession – Ossett were finding it harder to put their usual crisp passing together. They had to roll their sleeves up and work out how to overcome the wall of defenders. Joe Pygott was working hard on the left of midfield, alongside Ashley Young and Charlie Mountain, who were trying to pick Netherton’s defensive lock.
As the half wore on Ossett’s passes began to stick and one good move produced a corner, then a shot from Daniel Wright flew wide. Connor Daniel did well to work himself a shooting position and Daniel Wright was becoming more influential, running on to a through ball and knocking it past the keeper, from the tight angle the defender was able to clear the goalbound shot for a corner. Another excellent Joe Turfrey corner was then planted home by Dominic Sykes, with a good leap, for 1-1. Ossett’s hard work had paid off and Ashley Young and Connor Daniel had further efforts before the half ended.
Joe Turfrey started the second half with another tester for the keeper before Daniel Wright went on a strong run as Ossett looked for more goals. Billy Cundall was now on and making his presence felt in central midfield, winning Ossett more possession. Charlie Mountain was again involved at close range as he probed the Netherton defence. Daniel Wright and Connor Daniel were starting to link up more effectively and a lovely through ball was just too far for Charlie Mountain to reach. One period of Ossett pressure saw a Connor Daniel shot pushed out, Daniel Wright tried to pounce from close range, the ball then bounced around the six-yard box, getting cleared off the line before Joe Turfrey put a shot the wrong side of the post.
Ossett’s work rate increased as they tried to break down the stubborn Netherton defence. Aaron Potter and Louis Spurr were linking up well on the right. Louis Spurr was winning tackles and constantly pushing forward, looking to overlap and create an angle for a cross. His efforts and enthusiasm throughout a difficult game earned him the player of the match award.
Ossett’s defence was largely untroubled and any pressure was snuffed out and passed out of defence by Louis Spurr, Ben Fox, James Ruane and Daniel Sheen. Joe Turfrey had another shot saved before putting Daniel Wright through, only for his shot to go straight at the keeper. Ossett decided to go three at the back as they pushed for the win. It was Connor Daniel who won possession and powerfully ran at Netherton. No packed defence is able to contain a playing running through them all with pace and close control, before blasting a shot past the keeper for 2-1 Ossett. Ossett’s tails were up and Daniel Wright broke through in the last minute but his shot went across the face of goal. There was still time for him to make a strong run and shoot powerfully to round off the scoring and 3-1 Ossett.
Very much like this report, Ossett got there in the end – not necessarily a pleasant experience but you’ve battled through to read to the end. It’s not all glamour and goals. A hard-earned win against a well organised and battling Netherton team puts Ossett through to the Quarter Final.
7th MARCH 2010
HUDDERSFIELD LEAGUE UNDER 14’S THIRD DIVISION
“PLAYED TEN WON TEN’’
KIRKBURTON (0) 1 V OSSETT TOWN B (3) 5
GOAL SCORERS SAM PASHLEY 1, MO SIDAT 1, ADAM HORSFALL 2, LIAM PRESTON 1
MAN OF THE MATCH: WAQAS AWAD
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town capped off a great weekend with a hard fought victory away at Kirkburton.
The game started with both sides looking to open the scoring with the ball going from end to end.
The central midfield pairing of Jack Lonsdale and Ryan White was having to work hard to stop Kirkburton from advancing.
The Ossett front two of Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley were also finding it difficult to beat a very determined defence.
Goalkeeper Tom Rogers soon had to make a good save, as the home side kept on pressing.
Ossett Town now started to get into the game. From a Kirkburton corner, Will Dann won the ball and Saw Mo Sidat in space; Mo then ran 40 metres to see his shot well saved.
Within two minutes Sam Pashley had found Mo in space only to shoot just wide.
Again Kirkburton pressed only to find the central midfield pairing of Martin Preston and Waqas Awad in great form.
Ossett playing downhill on a small pitch were finding it hard to find any space, and any pass through with pace was soon out of play.
Again Ossett attacked, only this time were awarded a free kick. Martin Preston placed it into the area and Ryan White reacted first but his effort went over the bar.
After ten minutes Ossett took the lead after the excellent Sam Pashley, found Mo Sidat in space, Mo then ran through three defenders to slot the ball into the bottom corner.
Adam Horsfall now began to get into the game and saw his header go just wide.
The play again went from end to end with both keepers having to make some great saves.
Ossett’s second came from the excellent Jack Lonsdale, seeing Adam Horsfall in space, the resulting pass was inch perfect for Adam to pick up and slide the ball into the net.
Ossett now were in control of the game, with both Sam Pashley and Adam Horsfall going close. Jack Lonsdale had a go himself to see his header go just over the bar. Ryan White hit a screamer from the edge of the box, forcing the keeper to make an excellent save. On the left wing Chris Scott was working hard and came close to scoring, the keeper having to make another great save.
As half time approached the visitors made it three after some excellent work by Mo Sidat finding Sam Pashley in space, Sam turned and fired the ball into the top corner.
The half time came to an end with Kirkburton thinking themselves a little unlucky to be three nil down.
The second half started with three substitutions: Josh Hartshorne, Tom Hobson and Jazz Ahmed on for Will Dann, Jack Lonsdale and Chris Scott.
Within a minute of the kick off Sam Pashley found some space and was able to square the ball across the box, Liam Preston took control and calmly slotted the ball into the net.
The home side far from letting their heads drop responded immediately with a goal from a corner.
This really was turning into a great game of football.
Again Ossett attacked and again the home keeper was in fantastic form, first keeping out Ryan White and then the superb Mo Sidat.
This was to be the pattern of the half, with both sets of players giving their all as the ball went from one penalty area to the other.
Josh Hartshorne had to leave the field pulling a hamstring after a great tackle, Will Dann came on to cover.
As the half wore on Adam Horsfall capped off a brilliant individual performance with a great goal beating four players to score into the corner.
Kirkbuton to their credit kept on attacking, and the defensive line of Tom Hobson, Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Will Dann were having to work hard to stop them from scoring a second.
The home defence were also kept busy as Mo Sidat, Sam Pashley, Adam Horsfall and Ryan white all went looking for another goal.
The game ended with Ossett Town five one winners, but the victory was not as comfortable as the score line suggests.
The man of the match award went to Waqas Awad who was back at his best.
This again was a good solid team performance against a strong opposition, and whilst this was not one of the best Town performances, you showed that you can dig in to get the points.
30 points and 109 goals so far for the season, what else is there to say?
"OSSETT WAKE FROM THEIR SLUMBERS TO CANTER HOME"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
HOWDEN CLOUGH B 2 v 14 OSSETT TOWN B
Scorers: Mo Sidat (6), Adam Horsfall (4), Ryan White (2), Jaz Ahmed, Jack Lonsdale
Man of the Match: Alex Hall
6th March 2010
Report by Brian Hobson
Town recovered from a shaky start to end comfortable winners as Mo Sidat grabbed a double hat-trick.
On a cold drizzly morning on a poor pitch under the pylons, Ossett were quickly on top and Will Dann had an early shot saved. However, the hosts soon got back into the game as the Town players seemed unable to get up with the pace of the match, and after 7 minutes Howden Clough took the lead with an unmarked header from a corner.
Within a minute it was all square, a brilliant run by Mo Sidat took him past 4 defenders and his cross was turned in by Adam Horsfall. However, 2 minutes later poor defending allowed Howden Clough to get back in front as the whole Ossett team appeared to be sleepwalking.
Going behind again may have been the wake-up call Town needed, and they gradually started to stir. Liam Preston had a shot saved, then Mo Sidat skipped past 2 defenders to draw Ossett level again. Ryan White’s long-range shot skimmed the bar, then on 24 minutes Town finally got their noses in front, Jaz Ahmed picking out Mo Sidat with a fine ball for him to round the keeper and score.
Howden Clough still threatened, particularly from some excellent right-wing corners, and Martin Preston had to head one effort off the line. However, him and the rest of the back 4, Waqas Awad, Alex Hall and Tom Hobson, were by now starting to get to grips with the game, and Ryan White and Liam Preston in central midfield were starting to afford them the protection they needed, and 2 excellent goals in 3 minutes before the break made sure there was only going to be one winner from this game. A good move down the left between Will Dann, Adam Horsfall and Mo Sidat saw Jaz Ahmed turn in Sidat’s cross, then a similar move between Dann and Horsfall ended with Sidat finishing Horsfall’s cross for his hat-trick.
Town had finished the half strongly, but the first half performance fell short of their recent standards and the players were made well aware of this by the manager. With Josh Hartshorne slotting into the defence and Jack Lonsdale and Chris Scott coming into the midfield, it took just 25 seconds of the 2nd half for Town to extend their lead. Adam Horsfall made a good run down the right, and his cross was palmed out by the keeper for Mo Sidat to score.
2 minutes in it was 7-2, a great move between Ryan White and Jaz Ahmed and Ahmed’s fine cross was headed in by Mo Sidat. It was soon 8-2, White passing to Adam Horsfall and he showed his pace to beat the defender and finish well.
On 44 minutes came a special moment for Ryan White, as he turned in Mo Sidat’s cross for his 100th Ossett Town goal before celebrating with all his team-mates.
Howden Clough bravely kept going, and Waqas Awad had to clear one off the line and Tom Rogers had to make a good save, but it was nearly all on-way traffic by now, and 2 quick goals 11 minutes into the half summed up Town’s 2nd half superiority. Adam Horsfall beat 2 defenders before crossing for Mo Sidat to show his confidence by back-heeling it in, then came the goal of the game. Chris Scott beat the full-back and put in a great cross in classic winger style, and Adam Horsfall launched himself at it to score with a wonderful diving header to complete his hat-trick.
The hosts were now down to 10 players, but it was 10 minutes before any more goals; Town then got 3 in 6 minutes! Mo Sidat made a great run and his cross was turned in by Adam Horsfall, then after Liam Preston had a shot saved it was Jack Lonsdale’s turn to get onto the scoresheet after Horsfall made a good run a pulled the ball back to him. Ryan White completed the scoring when he finished off a delightful move; Waqas Awad started it by winning a tackle in his own half, he carried it forward before feeding Jaz Ahmed, he in turn passed it to Chris Scott who released White to finish well.
Josh Hartshorne ended with a terrific forward run and pass, only for White to miss out on his own hat-trick by firing wide.
After plenty of nervous moments early on, Town ended the game comfortable winners and at times produced the quality football they have shown us so often this season. However, if the players are serious about the game, every one of them has to prepare for matches properly, and that means early to bed the night before and being mentally prepared ready for kick-off. There will be matches when you can’t afford to give the opposition a lead before you start playing.
Plenty of contenders for man of the match, particularly in the 2nd half, with Chris Scott, Adam Horsfall and Mo Sidat all shining. But Alex Hall got the nod for a strong performance in defence from start to finish.
28TH FEBRUARY 2010
LEAGUE CUP 3RD ROUND
“OSSETT TOWN TAKE YET ANOTHER FIRST DIVISION SCALP’’
OSSETT TOWN UNDER 14’s B 5 v PENISTONE 2
GOAL SCORERS SAM PASHLEY 1, MO SIDAT 3, ADAM HORSFALL 1
MAN OF THE MATCH: THE WHOLE TEAM
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
If first division Penistone came to Ossett expecting an easy passage into the forth round of the cup, then they left with a very different opinion.
Ossett started with a 4,4,2 line up, with Josh Hartshorne, Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Liam Preston in defence. The midfield saw Adam Horsfall take the right wing, Jack Lonsdale and captain Ryan White central and Chris Scott on the left. Upfront saw Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat. Tom Rogers was in goal.
From the whistle Ossett took the game to the visitors and within 3 minutes had taken the lead when Mo Sidat found some space to calmly slot the ball into the bottom corner.
Penistone now began to play but found it difficult to get past the midfield, as both Jack Lonsdale and Ryan White were challenging and winning 90% of all the play. The game was turning into a real cup-tie thriller. A corner from Penistone saw Martin Preston head the ball clear to Ryan White, Ryan passed the ball to Sam Pashley who then ran the length of the pitch only to see his shot well saved.
Sam Pashley now turned provider, from his long throw in, Jack Lonsdale found some space for a shot again to be thwarted by a very good keeper.
Adam Horsfall was in superb form, and along with Liam Preston were dominating the right hand side of the field. Ossett were not having it all their own way, but the central defensive pairing of Waqas Awad and Martin Preston was coping really well with the first division attack, on the rare occasions they managed to break through they found keeper Tom Rogers in excellent form.
Another great Ossett move saw Adam Horsfall beat three players to find Sam Pashley in space to shoot and force another great save from the keeper.
As the first half drew to a close, the Penistone striker found himself with only the keeper to beat, Tom Rogers then produced the save of the match to see Ossett finishing the first half worthy of their one nil lead.
The second half started with two Town substitutions: Will Dann on for Josh Hartshorne and Alex Hall on for Chris Scott.
The home side again took the game to the visitors. A Penistone defensive mix up, led to the keeper handling the ball from a pass back. From the resulting indirect free kick, Ossett Town were unable to capitalise but it did produce a great save from the keeper.
Ossett continued to press, and from some superb play by Sam Pashley which found Adam Horsfall in some space to slot home the second. Penistone now started to pile on the pressure, but again the defence were up to the job with Will Dann and Martin Preston turning defence into attack.
With ten minutes to go Penistone managed to pull one back after a corner.
Another Penistone attack saw Keeper Tom Rogers race from his line to stop another potential goal only to receive a bad knock for his trouble. Back on his feet, Tom sent a ball up field, Sam Pashley took control and scored a great goal only to have it disallowed as the ball came through the net and from his angle the referee could not be certain that it had gone in – need to fasten those nets down better time lads!
As the game drew a close both sides went for a goal, with both Sam Pashley and the excellent Mo Sidat going close.
The last minute saw the unfortunate Ryan White deflect the ball into his own net when making a brave defensive header – somehow the ball went into the net from a tight angle and Penistone had equalised to take the game into extra time.
Extra time saw the home side take control, within one minute of the kick off Sam Pashley’s shot rebounded off the cross bar and Mo Sidat reacted the quickest to score Ossett’s third.
Again Penistone pressed forcing some great saves from Tom Rogers.
Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale were again in control of the midfield
Ossett’s forth goal came from some great skill from Jack Lonsdale beating four players to force a corner. From this play Mo Sidat again forced his way past two players to score into the bottom corner.
The whistle blew for the end of the first period of extra time with Ossett in control, can they continue this into the second period?
The answer was an emphatic yes!
Within two minutes Will Dann won the ball in defence, threaded the Ball through to Mo Sidat, Mo found Sam Pashley in space to score a superb goal to finish the game.
As the game drew to a close both sides were still looking for another goal with Jack Lonsdale and Mo Sidat going close.
The full time whistle blew and Ossett were worthy winners at five two.
This cup tie had it all: Two teams, Ossett Town, two divisions below Penistone, the goal that was scored but not allowed, extra time, and the division three side worthy winners, fantastic stuff!
The whole side were awarded the man of the match for a fantastic team performance.
I could not end the report without mentioning the contributions of Adam Horsfall and keeper Tom Rogers who both had a fantastic game.
Ossett now are through to the last eight and face Deighton, if we play with the spirit and skill we showed today we could beat them.
Well done Town!
Sunday, 28 February
Heavy Woollen District FA Secker Cup Semi Final
Battyeford 0 Ossett Town Juniors A 5
Goalscorers – Daniel Wright (2), Joe Turfrey (2) and Billy Cundall
Player of the Match – Daniel Wright
Town Hit Five on Grassy Knoll
Ossett played up and down the grassy knolls of Battyeford in their Secker Cup semi final showdown. The chance to reach any final is important to grasp with both hands and that’s exactly what Ossett did. The pitch was in good condition considering recent weather and the undulating surface made it a bit more interesting.
Early pressure from Ossett showed their determination to do well, Daniel Wright and Connor Daniel linking up, one occasion allowed Joe Turfrey to put in a long range effort, but it was just a range finder. Battyeford were trying to show they meant business on home turf but Connor Daniel was driving Ossett forward and his battling put in Daniel Wright, whose shot was blocked, before he smashed home the rebound into the corner for 1-0 Ossett. The Battyeford defence were finding it hard to contain him as Daniel Wright constantly ran at them. He flashed another shot across the goal to keep up his attacking threat, before great first time control allowed an early strike which flew the wrong side of the post.
Neat footwork from Ashley Young set up another Ossett move, with Joe Turfrey playing in Charlie Mountain, breaking down the right, increasing the pressure on the home team. As Battyeford tried to clear Daniel Wright was fouled for an Ossett penalty. Joe Turfrey despatched the spot-kick with no bother and 2-0 Ossett. A fantastic run by Daniel Wright took him past several defenders and to the by-line, where his far post cross was met by Connor Daniel, but his header came back off the base of the post. Ashley Young then scooped a shot towards the far corner but it was deflected wide. The resulting set-piece from Joe Turfrey was delivered to Daniel Wright, who’d leaped higher than anyone to claim a deserved second and 3-0 Ossett.
Ossett’s midfield was keeping control of the game with Billy Cundall winning lots of ball to keep it that way. Connor Daniel was looking to dribble at every opportunity and Daniel Wright was able to shirk off any marker in the rolling hills of Battyeford, causing problems on every occasion to stand out for the player of the match award. Whenever Ossett’s defence was called upon they were able to clear any danger as Daniel Sheen showed when expertly shielding the ball out of play. Both Louis Spurr and Daniel Sheen won possession and looked to run out of defence to set up further attacks. Battyeford did prove they hadn’t given up with two chances before half time. One break saw them through to face the onrushing Alex Campbell, but their shot rolled wide, and then he held onto a clean strike to calm everything down before the break.
Ossett maintained their hard-working attitude in the second half and continued to press forward. Joe Turfrey was influential and constantly looking to break out. He knocked in a dangerous cross for Daniel Wright, who just missed a touch to notch a hat-trick. Dominic Sykes was working well up and down the left side, putting in some good defensive headers. Connor Daniel tested the keeper from long range before a throw on the right was well knocked on by Dominic Sykes for Billy Cundall to neatly side foot home for 4-0 Ossett. A typical Connor Daniel run ended with a shot the keeper could only parry and Joe Turfrey’s striking instincts meant he followed up to make it 5-0 to Ossett.
The balance of play stayed with Ossett: Daniel Wright was continuing to make inroads into Battyeford’s territory; good interplay with Aaron Potter and Charlie Mountain probed the defence, as Ossett looked for more. The Ossett defence still had to be on their toes and Ben Fox was proving just as effective on the right as he had been on the left. Alex Campbell showed his excellent concentration when coming out well to clear a long ball and then jumping the highest to claim a free kick from underneath his crossbar. James Ruane won several 50/50 challenges and Connor Daniel and Joe Turfrey were dropping back to help out as Battyeford kept looking to push on.
Ossett were having some success on the left as Joe Pygott was linking well with Dominic Sykes and Joe Turfrey. One occasion saw Dominic Sykes win a corner and the Battyeford keeper had to be alert to keep Ossett out again. Aaron Potter’s determination was gaining ground on the right as both flanks were closing in on Battyeford. Ossett kept pressing with Daniel Wright blasting a late shot at the keeper.
Ossett progressed through to the final with a clinical performance. A scintillating first half, especially from Daniel Wright set up the win. The second half was a good team effort, if not quite at the same level as the first period, but credit to Battyeford who never let their heads drop and kept pressing. A good run out on a tough pitch saw Ossett make their own history on the grassy knolls of Battyeford.
TOWN HOLD ON TO TAKE THE POINTS
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
DEWSBURY RANGERS 3 v 4 OSSETT TOWN B
Scorers: Mo Sidat (2), Sam Pashley, Adam Horsfall
Man of the Match: Tom Rogers & Josh Hartshorne
14th February 2010
Report by Brian Hobson
Ossett withstood a late onslaught to emerge from a closely-fought game with the points thanks to 4 first-half goals.
Town started slowly, their 31-goal haul from the previous weekend perhaps leading to a little complacency, but one look at the league table showed that 2nd placed Dewsbury would provide their sternest league test to date. After early probing by both teams it was the home side who took a lead they just about deserved; Town’s players missed several tackles and although keeper Tom Rogers made a fine save the rebound was crossed and poked in.
With Rogers back in goal and his fellow skiers Adam Horsfall and Jack Lonsdale returning in midfield, Town gradually began to assert themselves on the game. Back in a 4-4-2 formation, Horsfall and Chris Scott held their positions well to provide the width while Lonsdale and Ryan White started winning the midfield battles. After Liam Preston had blasted a White corner just over, Town drew level on 15 minutes. An excellent Jack Lonsdale pass put Sam Pashley away, only for the keeper to save well. Pashley didn’t give up though – he chased the rebound and crossed it in for Mo Sidat to control it on his chest and lob the keeper.
Ossett now made the clearer chances, with Ryan White firing just wide and Mo Sidat having a shot saved from a White pass then scuffing his shot following a Sam Pashley cross. Eventually the pressure told when Ossett took the lead after 23 minutes with a cracker. A throw was flicked on to Adam Horsfall on the edge of the box, and he produced a wonderful turn and volley into the net.
Town continued to make chances, Ryan White having a shot blocked after a brilliant 1-2 with Mo Sidat, then Sam Pashley was foiled by the keeper as he ran onto White’s pass. However, Dewsbury Rangers showed their league position was no fluke with some excellent attacks of their own, breaking with skill, pace and numbers and causing plenty of problems for Liam and Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Josh Hartshorne at the back. All 4 stood up to the challenge well, Hartshorne particularly shining with some crunching tackles.
The game seemed perfectly balanced, but in the last 4 minutes of the half Ossett opened up a 3 goal lead that was ultimately to prove crucial. First Mo Sidat jinked past 4 defenders and when his shot was blocked it fell to Sam Pashley who finished well. Then after a great Waqas Awad tackle, Town broke and got a 4th a minute before the break. A deep Ryan White cross was rescued by Sam Pashley, and from his fine cross Mo Sidat cut back onto his right foot and buried it. An untimely half-time whistle denied Pashley a chance of another as he raced onto Ryan White’s pass as Town finished the half on top.
Ossett changed the wide players at half-time, Jaz Ahmed and Tom Hobson coming on wide left and wide right respectively, and both took chances to join attacks enthusiastically. With Adam Horsfall moving into attack with Mo Sidat dropping back to midfield, the 2nd half settled into an evenly matched contest just as the 1st had. Town had one clear chance when Sam Pashley’s shot went just wide after Liam Preston put him away, but Dewsbury were dealing with Ossett’s constant attacking threat as well as any team had this season.
Dewsbury started causing more problems themselves, and might have had a penalty before they were eventually awarded one for a pull back. However the Rangers player miss-hit his spot kick allowing Tom Rogers to make a comfortable save.
The reprieve was only temporary, however, Dewsbury making it 4-2 with a goal reminiscent of their first as Town failed to get a tackle in when a Rangers player burst down the right, and when a long range free kick rebounded from the post Town were rocking. They re-organised, with Jack Lonsdale and Chris Scott returning to the fray, and a good 1-2 between Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley led to Sidat’s shot being saved.
Just 4 minutes remained when Rangers made it 4-3, an excellent chip by their talented number 7 as Adam Horsfall struggled with an injury, and it was a nervy finish to the game as the hosts pressed for an equaliser; fortunately their one chance was scuffed and Town held on to maintain their 100% league record.
This was a much tougher game for Ossett than last weekend’s goal feasts, with Dewsbury pushing Town all the way and always threatening. Ultimately the decisive factors were Town’s solid defending and continuous threat up front, not just from the front two but with all the midfield players joining in at times. Town defended in numbers and attacked in numbers to make a very entertaining spectacle between two evenly matched sides.
Good performances today from Jack Lonsdale and Liam Preston, but man of the match went jointly to Tom Rogers and Josh Hartshorne for strong performances in goal and in defence respectively.
Sunday, 14 February
Huddersfield League Cup
Honley 3 Ossett Town Juniors A 7
Player of the Match – Connor Daniel
Goalscorers – Connor Daniel (5), Dominic Sykes and Joe Turfrey
Dancing On Ice
Ossett’s secret pastime is out – their affection for the Winter Olympics shows no bounds. First of all Aaron Potter missed last week skiing, this week sees Billy Cundall on the slopes, whilst half the rest of the team have been taking their passion for ice skating to new lengths. All good practice for the pitch at Honley, although the sun, as well as Ossett’s performance, soon warmed it up. Another committed performance from Ossett against high-flying Honley, with special mention for Daniel Wright, who battled through the first half with a knock he took when falling completing a triple salco on Saturday.
After the weekly wardrobe malfunction prior to kick off, Ossett lined up intent on continuing their recent good form. Early Honley pressure was relieved by a good run down the right by Daniel Wright. Good organised defending was needed as Honley showed they were also up for this one, with Ossett’s midfield dropping back to help out. A great Ossett move involving Ashley Young, Daniel Wright, Louis Spurr and Connor Daniel produced a chance for Dominic Sykes. Unfortunately it was on his weaker right foot and his first time volley flew the wrong side of the post. Ossett didn’t have long to wait as a strong break down the right by Daniel Wright produced a great cross for Connor Daniel to finish clinically from close range and 1-0 Ossett. Another link-up between the same two players saw Daniel Wright’s powerful shot go over the bar.
James Ruane was prominent in defence with some strong headers and tackles. Again, midfield helped out well with Daniel Wright and Ashley Young making decisive interceptions. Ben Fox was decisive at left back in stopping Honley making progress and had another consistent game in a solid defence. James Ruane won an important header which fell to Connor Daniel who dug out a shot which the keeper did well to turn round the post. Ossett were now enjoying excellent possession and keeping the pressure on Honley. One occasion saw the ball ping pong around the Honley box before being cleared. Joe Turfrey, Daniel Wright and Dominic Sykes were linking up well to cause danger for Honley and Connor Daniel was always looking to beat his man. Dominic Sykes showed great skill and strength when receiving the ball on the right of the box and turning to fire in a powerful shot low into the far corner for 2-0 Ossett. He was involved again when receiving a quick throw in, riding a challenge, and crossing well for Connor Daniel to finish it off for 3-0 Ossett.
Further chances came to Ossett before the break with a direct free kick by Joe Turfrey and another fine move involving Joe Turfrey, Dominic Sykes, Daniel Wright and finally Connor Daniel, who shot just wide. Half time saw Ossett in a deserved lead but aware Honley would think themselves still in the game.
Ossett were expecting Honley to come at them but strong play by Joe Turfrey straight from the kick off laid it off to Dominic Sykes, who did well to play in Connor Daniel, whose control was immaculate as he fired in a powerful finish from close range for 4-0 Ossett and Connor’s hat-trick. Ossett’s tails were up and Joe Turfrey and Charlie Mountain showed some nice touches on the left as Ossett drove on for more. Honley were still determined and built up some pressure in the Ossett box to win a penalty. Never fear, Alex Campbell produced a stunning save to his right to push away a fiercely struck penalty. Honley sniffed goals and after winning possession in midfield broke well down their right and fired in a well taken goal across keeper Campbell, 4-1.
Another Ossett break involving Connor Daniel and Dominic Sykes fed Joe Turfrey who fired over from the edge of the box. This was only a brief respite as more Honley pressure won a direct free kick on the edge of the Ossett box – a quality strike gave Alex Campbell no chance as Honley scented a comeback at 4-2. Honley had a period of pressure where Ossett had to dig deep to keep them at bay. Aaron Potter cleared well and Alex Campbell took a high ball to calm any danger.
Ossett slowly got back in the game as Ashley Young won the ball and set up Joe Turfrey on the left of the box but his shot was tipped round the post. Joe Turfrey wasn’t to be denied as he ran on to his own defence’s clearance to control the ball and lash it home for 5-2. Honley still had confidence in their ability and pushed on again. A skilful run through the middle set up a nice finish in the box for 5-3. Ossett would have been having uncomfortable thoughts about the recent league fixture between the sides when Honley produced a comeback win on Ossett’s turf. Ossett were being tested and Daniel Sheen showed great defensive strength and skill to break out for Ossett on more than one occasion. Soon an Ossett break saw Honley under pressure and an indirect free kick was awarded for a pass back. Joe Turfrey touched it to Connor Daniel who smashed the ball home for 6-3. Connor’s skill in running with the ball caused problems all game and, combined with his high quality finishing, earned him a well deserved player of the match award.
Ossett were still having to defend well as a whole team, with the back four protecting Alex Campbell as much as possible and Alex coming out to collect anything when required. Charlie Mountain was doing well to mop up any danger whilst sitting in deep in the midfield. Ossett were still looking to break when they good – Joe Pygott set up Joe Turfrey with a nice through ball. Louis Spurr then broke with pace down the right and crossed well to Connor Daniel. Connor’s control was fantastic and another cool finish capped a brilliant display to make it 7-3 Ossett.
Another great Ossett performance against a top class side. Both teams displayed a strong will to win which reflected their quality. The red card showed after the final whistle was a poor reflection on a well-contested game but the ref had little choice other than to show the Honley player the card. Ossett move into the next round against old friends Netherton. Looks like those ice skates did some good in the end.
SEVEN UP FOR SAM AS TOWN PUT ON WEST END SHOW
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
WEST END LIONS 1 v 13 OSSETT TOWN B
Scorers: Sam Pashley (7), Mo Sidat (3), Ryan White (2), Chris Scott
Man of the Match: Sam Pashley
7th February 2010
Report by Brian Hobson
Sam Pashley passed 50 goals for the season as Town cruised past a spirited West End side.
On a wide pitch that looked like suiting Ossett’s passing style, Town began kicking up the slope, but showed it wasn’t going to bother them when they took the lead in 17 seconds! Sam Pashley latched onto Jaz Ahmed’s pass to round the keeper and score well. Town continued the previous game’s 3-5-2 formation, and West End fought back and applied some pressure, with Ossett’s back 3 of Josh Hartshorne, Waqas Awad and Tom Hobson standing up to the challenge well and all making good tackles.
Town withstood the barrage and on 6 minutes extended their lead, Mo Sidat making a great run before squaring it for Sam Pashley to finish. This was the signal for Town’s midfield of Chris Scott, Ryan White, Liam Preston, Will Dann and Jaz Ahmed to take control and although the hosts threatened on the break at times, keeper Alex Hall barely had another touch in the 1st half.
It took until the 15th minute before Ossett extended their lead, after Mo Sidat had a shot blocked on the line following another great run and Chris Scott had a shot saved by the impressive home keeper. This time Sidat took a throw in on his chest and when his shot was saved Sam Pashley was on hand to complete his hat-trick.
With Martin Preston now joining the play, Town continued to have the upper hand, and Mo Sidat made a great run from his own half before his shot was again cleared off the line. The 4th goal soon arrived, and what a beauty it was. Ryan White’s shot was blocked by Sidat’s thigh (on such a cold day it must have stung!), but from the rebound White calmly lobbed the keeper perfectly.
Josh Hartshorne was now playing wide left, and getting forward well as Mo Sidat forced another fine save from the keeper. West End now fought back, and after wonderfully-timed tackles from Martin Preston and Waqas Awad they hit the side netting from one break down their right. 2 minutes before the interval, however, Ossett made it 5-0 with a well-deserved Mo Sidat goal, racing onto Ryan White’s pass to round the keeper and score.
There was still time for Sam Pashley to have a shot well saved following an excellent Tom Hobson pass and Josh Hartshorne to head just wide from a fine Ryan White cross, and Ossett went into half-time confident that with the slope in their favour they could add more in the 2nd half.
Liam Preston had a turn in goal as the 2nd half began, with Alex Hall pushed into midfield, and within 3 minutes of the restart it was 6-0; another great run from Mo Sidat and his shot may have been going in but Sam Pashley made sure. 2 minutes later it was roles reversed – Jaz Ahmed linked up well with Pashley down the right and his exquisite chip may have been going in but Mo Sidat made sure!
On 42 minutes it was 8-0, Sam Pashley knocking in Ryan White’s cross, and 5 minutes later it was 9-0 when Chris Scott made a terrific run down the left and his cross / shot was tapped in by Pashley to complete his double hat-trick.
To their credit West End continued trying to go forward, and after Martin Preston thwarted then with a brilliant tackle they finally managed to breach an Ossett defence appealing in vain for offside.
Josh Hartshorne now had a stint in goal, and Town were soon down the other end to reach double figures. A great run by Mo Sidat (how many times have I written that today?) ended with an unselfish pass to Sam Pashley to grab another. On 59 minutes Sidat completed his own hat-trick when he latched onto a fine Ryan White pass, then it was Chris Scott’s turn to get in on the act. After having one shot well saved, he made no mistake when he fired home following a brilliant Jaz Ahmed pass.
3 minutes from time it was lucky 13 for Town, an excellent Alex Hall pass sending Mo Sidat away down the left and his cross was steered home by Ryan White. Hall then came close to getting on the scoresheet himself as his screamer went just wide.
This was another efficient performance from a Town side oozing confidence. West End were much stronger than earlier in the season and put up some tough resistance, but Town’s hard work, good passing and strong running formed the platform for a comfortable victory. Exactly the same qualities will be needed to overcome sterner tests which are yet to come. Plenty of contenders for man of the match; Martin Preston at his elegant best in defence, Ryan White controlling the midfield and tonight the home defenders will have nightmares about Mo Sidat’s strength, pace and unselfishness. However, a 7 goal haul coupled with a display full of skill, speed and good movement earned the award for Sam Pashley.
SATURDAY 6TH FEBRUARY 2010
“MAGNIFICENT OSSETT MARCH ON TO ROUND THREE”
LEAGUE CUP ROUND TWO.
OSSETT TOWN UNDER 14’S B (12) 18 v NORRISTHORPE B 0
SCORERS: SAM PASHLEY 5, MO SIDAT 7, WILL DANN 2, RYAN WHITE, LIAM PRESTON, CHRIS SCOTT, WAQAS AWAD.
MAN OF THE MATCH: WILL DANN
From the first whistle Ossett Town took the game to the visitors and this was to be the pattern of the whole game.
Within two minutes both strikers Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley came close as Norristhorpe failed to deal with the pace and strength of the Ossett attack.
The first of the Town goals came from a corner, which saw Jazz Ahmed on the right wing drive the ball into the box, finding Sam Pashley on hand to slot the ball home.
Two minutes later and Town had scored again from a breathtaking move when defender Tom Hobson cleared the ball to Jazz Ahmed who then passed the ball to Will Dann, Will then picked out Sam Pashley who scored in the bottom corner.
Sam’s hat trick came three minutes later when captain Ryan White dug the ball out from a tangle of Norristhorpe players to set up him up again, scoring into the bottom corner.
Now it was Mo Sidat’s turn to score, after running 30 meters to find the net. Only two minutes later, a defensive mix up saw Mo, again on his own, to make it five.
Norristhorpe in fairness were not playing badly, but found the home side in scintillating form.
Town soon found themselves six up, after Waqas Awad scored a great header from Ryan White’s corner.
Town’s midfield of Chris Scott on the left, Will Dann, Ryan White, Liam Preston in the middle and Jazz Ahmed on the right were simply two strong and not allowing any Norristhorpe attacks through.
Waqas Awad, Martin Preston and Tom Hobson in defense were spectators for most of the time with Alex Hall in goal very rarely having to touch the ball.
Liam Preston now got into the act to score Town’s seventh.
Ossett’s eigth saw Mo Sidat score his hat trick after Norristhorpe failed to clear the ball. Soon Mo scored again after a great through ball from Ryan White.
Another flowing move from defense to attack saw Sam Pashley pick up another great through ball from Will Dann to make it ten.
Mo Sidat soon made it eleven, and as half time approached he found the top corner with a screamer of a shot to make the half time score twelve-nil.
The second half was a mirror of the first with Ossett in total control, within two minutes Ryan White had hit the cross bar.
Two minutes later Ryan produced another corner and this time it was Will Dann on the end of it bagging his first of the season and Ossett’s thirteenth.
Number fourteen saw Sam Pashley run 40 meters to score a great solo goal.
Goal fifteen saw Will Dann react the quickest when the goalkeeper spilled the ball.
Ossett Town now conscious of tomorrow’s game eased off the pace but there was time to score an additional three goals. The first saw Will Dann push through a slide rule pass, finding Mo Sidat in space to score into the bottom corner. The second came when Sam Pashley played in Ryan White, to score his first of the morning. The third goal, the best of the match, was from Chris Scott, who bent the ball (with his right foot) from 25 meters into the top corner.
Eighteen-Nil what a fantastic result.
This was Ossett Town at their best. The work rate, the passing and the clinical finishing were superb, but above all the team spirit shone through.
It was really difficult to single out individuals to praise as all the team were excellent, But Ryan White completely dominated the midfield and the man of the match Will Dann for his through balls to the strikers and his own goals were a joy to watch.
Well done Ossett Town, bring on Penistone.
Sunday, 7 February
Huddersfield League Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 6 HAFC 1
Player of the Match – Billy Cundall
Goalscorers – Daniel Wright (3), Joe Turfrey (2) and Billy Cundall
Old Earth sees Ossett come to life
Ossett arrived at Old Earth in search of another win to round off a double header of fixtures this weekend. Ossett had the chance to leapfrog HAFC in the table. Another very professional display for their supporters would be required. The sidelines were buzzing with anticipation, especially as all were suitably refreshed by the chip shop and butty shop – Old Earth certainly had all the modern conveniences. Ossett didn’t disappoint with another cracking display.
Ossett set off full of confidence and had all the early pressure. It wasn’t long before the ball was played neatly out from defence to Joe Turfrey, who played in an early cross, which was touched past the keeper by Daniel Wright and slotted home for 1-0 Ossett. A similar formation to their last league game had Dominic Sykes leading the line and Billy Cundall anchoring the midfield. Daniel Sheen continued his good form by marauding forward, with Billy Cundall dropping in to cover. HAFC showed they were no pushovers with a good break from a corner, but shot wide, and then a dangerous free kick. Alex Campbell had to be brave to gather a through ball. Ossett were creating some nice moves and building well but the ferocious tackling meant it was a bit scrappy at times. The tackle count was rising with Louis Spurr and Billy Cundall prominent, not giving an inch. More Ossett pressure won a corner and a quality centre from Joe Turfrey was headed in by Billy Cundall for a deserved goal and 2-0 Ossett.
Dominic Sykes was holding the ball up well and looking to bring his team mates into the action. Billy Cundall and Louis Spurr were linking up well when going forward. HAFC felt they were still in it and Ossett had to defend well as a team. Ashley Young was able to drive forward to relieve any pressure, helped out by Charlie Mountain and Billy Cundall in the middle of the park. Dominic Sykes was clear with the keeper to beat but hit it too close to him. Connor Daniel was on and making an impression in midfield when controlling the ball and digging out a shot which was deflected by Charlie Mountain only for the keeper to react well to make the save.
HAFC responded and Alex Campbell was called into action twice to show his handling ability and pull off smart saves as HAFC pushed Ossett back. Ossett came again as Daniel Wright showed great control to pass the ball out wide to Joe Turfrey who put in a brilliant cross to the back post for Daniel Wright, who’d continued his run, to nod home for 3-0 Ossett. Half time came with Ossett firmly in the ascendancy when Dominic Sykes broke out and fed Joe Turfrey, who fired in a fierce shot but the keeper turned it round the post.
Straight away from the kick off Ossett were under pressure. A lack of concentration saw HAFC one on one with Alex Campbell, who kept his composure to make a fantastic save. This boosted HAFC and they pressed forward but Connor Daniel calmed any nerves when winning the ball in midfield. Alex Campbell still had to be alert to save a long range effort. Ossett gradually reasserted control with a Joe Turfrey effort from a free kick and then a header by Ashley Young, who got on the end of a Daniel Sheen free kick.
The game was still well contested and a strong tackle from James Ruane won the ball, which ended up at the feet of Billy Cundall, who assessed his options and put a killer ball through the defence for Daniel Wright to run on to and finish superbly for a deserved hat-trick and 4-0 Ossett. Daniel Wright was causing plenty of problems on the right and his goals were a reward for his efforts. Billy Cundall was not letting anything past him and always looking to set up a team mate – he kept going all game and picked up the player of the match for an inspirational display. Joe Turfrey then started a little cameo in the middle of the game. Five chances fell to Joe, some were out wide, some one on one, and some more difficult than others. A combination of good defending, brave keeping, difficult angles and some wrong decisions contributed to his frustrations as the ball wouldn’t go in. Ossett slackened once during this spell, possibly trying to count how many chances Joe was up to, and HAFC swooped to win the ball and crash it against the crossbar and then follow up the rebound to make it 4-1.
Eventually, the loudest cheer of the day was heard as Joe Turfrey’s hard work saw him dig one out and fire over the keeper for 5-1. Like buses, another was along soon, as he soon knocked in a screamer from 25 yards for 6-1. The game was still a battle, which was a credit to HAFC, and Joe Pygott was getting stuck in on the left of midfield with some great tackles and one brilliant cross field ball to Daniel Wright. Ossett’s defence could never let up and Ben Fox and James Ruane showed their strength and determination to be alert to dangerous play.
Another excellent all round team performance, with every player putting in a performance to be proud of. A great weekend for Ossett puts their league campaign back on track. Old Earth had seen a real battle by both teams which warmed up everyone who watched it.
Saturday 6 February
Huddersfield League Division 1
Deighton 0 Ossett Town Juniors A 2
Player of the Match – Daniel Sheen
Goalscorer – Connor Daniel (2)
Hot Deight for Ossett
Ossett were back in League action for the first time since 22 November and looking to start a move up the table against a strong Deighton team. As the Ossett players warmed up, and eventually peeled off their tracksuits, it was evident they were up for this one and no wardrobe malfunction was going to stop them.
Ossett lined up with a 4-5-1 formation, with Daniel Wright leading the line, and he showed his determination with an early run down the right to win a corner. Both sides were battling for the ball and Ossett didn’t give an inch, with Daniel Wright, Connor Daniel and James Ruane winning the ball decisively, and showing Ossett’s intent. The frenetic pace of the game saw possession shared between both teams and the defence had to cover well to keep Deighton at bay, whilst Daniel Wright was causing problems across Deighton’s back line. Connor Daniel was winning important possession and, after some good work, laid it off to Billy Cundall to shoot first time but the ball flew high. Deighton won a corner and a great headed clearance from Ashley Young put the ball to safety. Corners were to prove Deighton’s main attacking threat all game.
Ben Fox linked up nicely with Ashley Young to drive forward on the left of midfield as Ossett enjoyed good possession. Charlie Mountain showed neat skill as Ossett’s midfield looked solid, with Billy Cundall working hard in mopping up any threats, allowing Connor Daniel and Ashley Young to probe forward. Joe Pygott was closing down well at left back and was positive in moving the ball forward. Louis Spurr was working hard on the right of defence and all were responding well to any Deighton pressure. Another dangerous corner was well claimed by Alex Campbell. Daniel Wright was looking isolated up front at times, but didn’t stop, and was unlucky when shooting wide. Deighton went down the other end and Alex Campbell had to be brave to claim the ball.
A strong tackle by Daniel Sheen allowed him to break up field and feed the ball to Connor Daniel, who ran into the left of box and slotted the ball across the keeper for 1-0 Ossett. Confidence was up and Daniel Wright and Connor Daniel linked up well to cause more threats. Deighton were still looking to press and Ben Fox and Ashley Young showed Ossett’s determination when dropping back and helping out with important clearances. Another strong break from Daniel Sheen set up Daniel Wright, who took it early, but this time over the bar. Half time came with Ossett on top but still very close.
Deighton came out strong and had a lot of early pressure, with several dangerous corners. Connor Daniel was still prominent and linking well with Billy Cundall to press forward trying to release Daniel Wright. Joe Turfrey was now on the left of midfield and eager to get involved. More Deighton corners saw some excellent handling from Alex Campbell and the defence holding up well and working as a unit to clear the ball in whatever way they could. Connor Daniel’s skill nearly released Joe Turfrey as Ossett’s 4-5-1 became more fluid and looked a 4-3-3 when going forward. Louis Spurr was dashing along the right and caused problems when getting behind the Deighton back line. Ossett’s midfield was on top and keeping plenty of possession as they tried to increase Ossett’s advantage.
Ossett’s defence couldn’t rest and were always alert to any danger. Daniel Sheen was strong and looked to dominate by breaking up field whenever he could. Every tackle was followed by a pass to set up a team mate and his excellent all round performance earned him the player of the match in a game of many candidates. Another nice move from Ossett, starting from a defensive clearance, involved Joe Turfrey, Daniel Wright and Louis Spurr before Connor Daniel’s shot ended up the wrong side of the post. Ossett’s pressure paid off as a throw was headed on by Daniel Wright and Connor Daniel lobbed it over the keeper for 2-0 Ossett.
Daniel Wright’s long range effort was well tipped over as Ossett looked for more. Another Daniel Sheen inspired break fed Louis Spurr but the keeper did well to claim the ball. A great Daniel Wright cross was deflected away from Louis Spurr as he got into position to plant the ball in the net. Deighton hadn’t given up and another set of corners created danger and Alex Campbell had to watch the ball well to push one over the bar. Deighton pressed but strong Ossett defence kept them at bay – James Ruane with some well-timed tackles, Ben Fox being alert to any danger on the left and Charlie Mountain strong on the right.
Full time brought a hard-earned win for Ossett. A high class encounter with excellent play from both teams provided a great spectacle. The whole team were fantastic and showed how much they wanted to win, decisive in such a close match. Ossett showed what they can do and set the tone for the rest of the campaign.
SUNDAY 24TH JANUARY 2010
“OSSETT TOWN BATTLE HARD BUT FAIL TO OVERCOME CLASSY DEIGHTON”
OSSETT TOWN UNDER 14’S B TEAM
WEST RIDING COUNTY CUP 4TH ROUND
DEIGHTON (1) 6 V OSSETT TOWN B (0) 3
SCORERS: SAM PASHLEY 2, MO SIDAT
MAN OF THE MATCH: ADAM HORSFALL.
Ossett Town traveled to Deighton full of confidence after their unbeaten run, but as we know from past experience first division Deighton are a very good side.
The kick off saw Ossett start with a 4,4,2 formation with Mo sidat and Sam Pashley up front, left wing was Chris Scott, Adam Horsfall was playing right wing with Jack Lonsdale and captain Ryan White covering the midfield. The defensive line up was Josh Hartshorne, Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Liam Preston. In goal, Tom Rogers.
From the kick off both teams went looking for the opening goal.
The ball was going from end-to-end with Sam Pashley looking lively, but as we know Deighton can be very quick on the counter and the town defense were soon having to make some tackles but both Martin Preston and Waqas Awad were looking comfortable and catching the home side offside.
The Ossett midfield were having to work hard with the captain Ryan White leading by example and the excellent Adam Horsfall clearing the ball from both defensive and midfield positions.
Ossett Town’s attack were now starting to get some service with Sam Pashley working hard and forcing the Deighton keeper into some early saves.
The ball was going from end-to-end with Waqas Awad in the thick of it at one end and then Mo Sidat at the other; this was turning into a fantastic cup-tie.
It was the home side that took the lead after some great play from their talented center forward.
Ossett straight from the kick off went looking for an equalizer and were causing some great defensive tackles from the home side, preventing Sam Pashley, Ryan White and Mo Sidat from scoring.
As the half drew to a close Deighton must have counted themselves lucky to be one nil up as Ossett had dominated possession for much of the latter stages of the half.
The second half saw Will Dann and Jamie Carney on for Chris Scott and Josh Hartshorne.
The game carried on at the same high tempo as the first half with every Ossett player giving 100%.
The game now started to become a real tussle in midfield with Jack Lonsdale showing real determination to win most of the tackles and setting up the front two. It was from one of these crunching tackles and then a brilliant through ball to Sam Pashley that saw the ball go agonizingly past the right hand post.
It was to be the home side who took the initiative again to score a second (against the run of play).
Again the team spirit of Ossett started to shine through and the superb Sam Pashley dug a ball from out of the midfield and scored a great individual goal.
The game continued at breath taking speed with both teams giving everything.
Ossett Town’s defense where brilliant with Waqas Awad, Martin Preston, Liam Preston and Josh Hartshorne throwing everything to prevent Deighton from scoring.
Could Ossett equalize?
Mo Sidat controlled a great pass from the superb Jack Lonsdale and with great skill lifted the ball over the keeper. Two all.
The next five minutes saw the home side score 3 quick goals, two from set pieces. This seemed to have a negative effect on the Ossett players having just fought to get the game to a respectable 2 v 2.
As the game drew to a close, Deighton added their 6th goal followed soon after by Sam Pashley excellent effort which came off the bar, but within two minutes the same said player scored a great goal to make the final score 6-3.
As a spectator this was a brilliant game to watch played in a fantastic cup spirit and every player giving 100%.
Ossett Town players left the field looking a little despondent as the score did not reflect the possession and skill levels shown in the game.
The man of the match went to Adam Horsfall for a brilliant display of tenacity and skill.
Every Ossett player should feel proud of their individual performances, as you could not have given any more and just the lapse in concentration for five minutes cost you the game, which for 55 minutes you could have won.
As usual Ryan White had a fantastic captains game, Jack Lonsdale was excellent in midfield, and Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley caused the Deighton defense problems all afternoon.
A mention to keeper Tom Rogers who never gave up and without some brave saves the score line could have been worse
Well Done Ossett you did yourselves proud.
Sunday, 24 January
County Cup Round 4
Rothwell Athletic 2 Ossett Town Juniors A 1
Player of the Match – Daniel Sheen
Goalscorer – Connor Daniel
Close Encounters in the Fourth Round
Ossett were back in action after their winter break and finally, at the fourth time of asking, took on Rothwell Athletic from the Garforth League. The weather was still having an impact as the game was switched to Bywell playing fields. Both teams showed their high standard on a difficult pitch.
A bright start by Ossett saw Daniel Wright lead a break and put in Louis Spurr for a shot. His hard, low drive was smothered by the keeper. More Ossett pressure earned a corner, which fell to Billy Cundall who drew another save with a high lobbed shot. Rothwell showed they were settling with a break, but their shot was high and wide. The game was turning into a well-contested affair with both teams not giving an inch in the challenge. Dominic Sykes showed his strength and control in midfield and drew another corner for Ossett. James Ruane headed over from the resulting centre. The impetus Ossett had saw Daniel Wright and Joe Turfrey interchange passes and set up Dominic Sykes, whose shot was deflected wide off the keeper’s legs. From the corner, Connor Daniel was alert at the far post to hook his shot past the keeper for 1-0 Ossett.
Rothwell responded and Alex Campbell was quickly out to block their attack. Further Rothwell pressure saw a corner sent over and an almighty goalmouth scramble. Ossett seemed confident the ball had been kept out and gathered by keeper Campbell but the ball was adjudged to have gone over the line to make it 1-1. Rothwell poured forward and Alex Campbell was called on to block another attack. Ossett’s defence was coming under increasing pressure and were working hard as a unit. Charlie Mountain and Ben Fox both won strong challenges, whilst Daniel Sheen and James Ruane were combining well in the middle. Ossett kept their heads up and Joe Turfrey broke well and his low shot was tipped round the post for a corner. Rothwell had a spring in their step and were attacking with increasing pace. A surge into the Ossett box earned a penalty from James Ruane’s challenge. A well-taken spot kick gave Alex Campbell no chance as Rothwell took a 2-1 lead.
The conditions underfoot were making it difficult to play neat football and plenty of play was crammed into midfield as players slogged it out. Connor Daniel and Billy Cundall were constantly battling for possession and Dominic Sykes and Louis Spurr were always looking to be an outlet. Ossett didn’t let their heads drop and Daniel Wright shot wide before another quality move saw a Louis Spurr shot saved at the second attempt. Alex Campbell had to get down low to knock away a shot. Ben Fox showed strength to once again keep out Rothwell’s advances. Joe Turfrey was working hard and showing nice control to try and set up another Ossett attack. Half time came with Rothwell having the advantage.
The second half saw Ossett defending down the slope and the back four of Charlie Mountain, Daniel Sheen, James Ruane and Ben Fox were soaking up early Rothwell pressure and able to win the headers and tackles that mattered. Joe Turfrey was dropping back when required to help out to show the whole team were still determined to get something from this tie. Rothwell’s danger was always apparent as another break saw Alex Campbell advance to the edge of the box and make a tremendous block to clear the danger. His bravery earned him a bloody nose which required treatment and no doubt a sigh of relief when he was able to carry on, especially being his first game back from injury.
This inspired Ossett to up their game and take the attack to Rothwell. Daniel Wright showed his pace and strength with a strong run down the right. Ossett were creating plenty of pressure, if not quite clear chances, although Rothwell showed they were still a danger. A quick break saw them fire wide and then a long range free kick was watched closely by Alex Campbell before being tipped over the bar. Ashley Young was now winning the ball and spreading play in the middle of the park. Aaron Potter was in the thick of things, trying to get Ossett back on level terms.
Ossett were pushing forward and causing plenty of problems for Rothwell’s defence. A corner was well met by Dominic Sykes but looped over the bar. As the game neared its close Ossett were piling forward and the contest became end to end as Rothwell broke out in response, with Joe Pygott now slotted in at the back for Ossett. Daniel Sheen was on hand plenty of times to show his composed defending, either clearing it up field or finding a man to try and set up another attack. His display helped keep Ossett in the game and won him the player of the match plaudits.
The game ended in a narrow defeat for Ossett. If their hard-working second half display had taken the tie into extra time, it would have reflected the tremendous effort from all the Ossett players. Rothwell, however, showed why they are still unbeaten in the top division of the Garforth League and had plenty of quality on display. Ossett played their part in a close game and can take heart, as there’s still plenty to play for this season.
SATURDAY 23 JANUARY 2010
RUSTY TOWN GET BACK INTO THE GROOVE
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Ossett Town B 8 – 2 Howden Clough B
Scorers: Mo Sidat (2), Sam Pashley (3), Ryan White, Jamie Carney (2)
Man of the Match: Tom Hobson
23rd January 2010
Match Report by Brian Hobson
After the lengthy weather-enforced winter break, Town eventually shook off the cobwebs to maintain their 100% league record.
On a surprisingly good pitch at Springmill, Ossett got off to a perfect start with a goal in the 3rd minute when Alex Hall found Mo Sidat and he curled in a beauty from just outside the area. It was far from one-way traffic however, and both Waqas Awad and Tom Hobson had to produce excellent tackles to maintain Town’s advantage.
Ossett re-asserted themselves as Jaz Ahmed, Adam Horsfall, Ryan White and Alex Hall took control of the midfield, and they extended their lead after 11 minutes when Sam Pashley somehow squeezed a shot in from the tightest of angles. Both teams then produced chances, a fine Tom Rogers save at one end and Adam Horsfall having a shot blocked following a terrific Mo Sidat run.
Midway through the half, though, the game turned on its head when the visitors scored 2 identical goals through breaks down the middle in the space of a minute. Town were rocked back on the heels, and Josh Hartshorne produced a couple of strong challenges to prevent Howden Clough taking the lead. Then on 22 minutes Ossett were given the chance to regain the lead when Adam Horsfall was bundled over and Ryan White calmly despatched the resulting penalty.
Town never really looked back from then on, with Martin Preston and Waqas Awad finding the form they have shown at the back all season, and Liam Preston and Jack Lonsdale entered the fray to bolster the defence and midfield respectively. Ossett were twice denied by the right-hand post from Ryan White’s shot and Sam Pashley’s header, but on the stroke of half-time they did manage to make it 4-2 with an unusual goal. The visitors’ keeper picked up a back-pass 6 yards out, and Ryan White squared the free kick across the area for Sam Pashley to tap in.
With Jamie Carney on at half-time up front, Town started the 2nd half well and got their 5th after 40 minutes with the goal of the game. Ryan White burst through the midfield and fed Jaz Ahmed on the left wing. He played a perfect cross in for Sam Pashley who controlled it instantly and scored well to complete his hat-trick.
Tom Rogers produced a fine save as Howden Clough threatened, but it was Town who were producing most of the chances now. Liam Preston had a shot deflected onto the bar, and Jamie Carney twice had shots well saved after great work by Ryan White and Adam Horsfall. Midway through the half they got the 6th goal they deserved, Mo Sidat effectively racing onto his own pass to cross for Jamie Carney to score.
Having scored one, Carney soon got his 2nd thanks to Jack Lonsdale’s tackle, surge forward and pass to Carney to show his new-found confidence with a fine finish. On 62 minutes Mo Sidat rounded off the scoring, squeezing a shot in after a throw in.
Having only played 1 game in 10 weeks, it was not surprising that Town were rusty, and despite the good playing surface the small pitch didn’t help them produce their normal passing football. Town will need to produce more convincing performances than this in the coming weeks, but it was good for them to get this game under their belts. Some good performances throughout the team, Adam Horsfall having another impressive game despite his late aberration and Sam Pashley grabbing another treble, but Tom Hobson got the man of the match award for a solid performance at full-back.
Sunday, 13 December
"ROBUST TOWN THROUGH TO LAST 16"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
West Riding County Cup 3rd Round
OSSETT TOWN B 4 v 3 HAFC
Scorers: Waqas Awad, Ryan White, Sam Pashley, Mo Sidat
Man of the Match: The Whole Team
Report by Brian Hobson
Another classic cup-tie saw Ossett reach the 4th round of the County Cup with a deserved win against their Division 1 opponents.
It was a bitterly cold afternoon, especially for those of us without a jumper, but after 4 weeks of postponed games Town were just glad to be playing again. With HAFC starting a player short, Ossett started well with a very good tempo. Sam Pashley had already had 2 shots just wide before Town grabbed a 3rd minute lead when Waqas Awad rose highest to meet Ryan White’s left-wing corner and head in.
HAFC then showed their quality by fighting back, and it took an excellent Waqas Awad tackle to preserve Town’s lead. However after 13 minutes they managed to double their lead. The outstanding Adam Horsfall held the ball up brilliantly just outside the box before laying it back for Ryan White to smash it into the bottom corner.
Within a minute it was 2-1 when HAFC scored from an excellent cross from their impressive right-winger, and the game ebbed and flowed in classic cup-tie style. Town’s back 4 of Liam &Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Chris Scott all put in vital challenges, and the midfield quartet of Jamie Carney, Jack Lonsdale, Ryan White and Adam Horsfall did their jobs brilliantly – tracking back when needed but always there to support the forwards.
Tom ‘safe hands’ Rogers (whose handling was outstanding all afternoon) excelled in goal, while up front Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat were constant thorns for the HAFC defence with their running and strength. Pashley had a shot cleared off the line from a Ryan White corner before another shot appeared to be blocked by an arm. Then 2 minutes before the break Town restored their 2 goal advantage when Ryan White’s shot was well saved only for Sam Pashley to react first and knock in the rebound.
The visitors’ missing player now appeared after ending up in Normanton, and although HAFC had clearly been disadvantaged by being a man short, there was no doubting that Ossett deserved their half-time lead.
As if to underline the point, Town started the 2nd half the way they had finished the 1st, and only an excellent save prevented Mo Sidat extending the lead after a fine Jack Lonsdale – Sam Pashley move.
Town’s substitutes Tom Hobson, Jaz Ahmed and Will Dann came on during the next few minutes, and it speaks highly for all 3 that there was no disruption to the pattern of the team, as Town’s robust performance continued. 11 minutes in, they made it 4-1 after a great Adam Horsfall pass found Mo Sidat and he showed his pace and strength and finished well.
2 minutes later it was back to 4-2 as Town’s players (and parents) appealed in vain for offside. Things became heated on the touchline and the supporters were treated to a “Right Said Fred” moment as the ref rebuked Tim Lonsdale (sorry boys, you’ll have to ask your parents to explain that one!), and again the game was up for grabs with chances at either end.
After Mo Sidat had a shot saved following a great run and cross by Ryan White, HAFC made it 4-3 with a scrambled goal with 12 minutes to go. Town defended for their lives, although they did have their chances too as Sam Pashley was unlucky to see a header go wide from a Ryan White corner and then a shot do the same following Mo Sidat’s excellent ball. Eventually though Ossett held on for a terrific victory.
I seem to end every match report the same way this season, full of praise for the all-round performance of the team, but my goodness how these lads deserve it. Every one of them worked like Trojans for the team without a hint of selfishness, tackling hard to win the ball but with all of them showing their quality when in possession. This team knows how to battle, but there is far more to their game than that as every one of their opponents this season will testify.
Ossett Town have 2 teams in the last 16 of the County Cup, an achievement to be proud of, and let’s hope both go all the way. There were some terrific individual performances, not least from Adam Horsfall, Ryan White and Waqas Awad, but the whole team deserved their collective man of the match award. Well done everyone.
Ossett Town A
County Cup Round 3
Heckmondwike Town 1 Ossett Town Juniors A 8
Player of the Match – Connor Daniel
Goalscorers – Joe Turfrey (2), Dominic Sykes, Daniel Wright, Ben Fox, James Ruane, Connor Daniel and Louis Spurr
Deja Vu for Ossett
Grey skies above and cold in the air meant a real cup tie feel for Ossett’s encounter with an enthusiastic Heckmondwike as the teams met again, this time in the County Cup.
Early Ossett pressure gave Heckmondwike a warning of what was to come. Ossett settled well, with stand in keeper Aaron Potter coming out to collect the ball to calm any nerves. Joe Turfrey was prominent and took a long range punt which was saved at the second attempt by the keeper. Dominic Sykes showed excellent skill on the left with some great balls along the channel, as well keeping up with defensive duties, to set up several attacks. It wasn’t long before neat play in the box by Connor Daniel saw an accurate low cross side-footed in by Dominic Sykes for 1-0.
Ossett’s confidence was up and determined play by Connor Daniel inside the box meant he was able to set up Daniel Wright for a close range finish to make it 2-0. Heckmondwike didn’t let their heads drop and Joe Pygott showed his mettle with some strong challenges, as well as Daniel Sheen and James Ruane, to maintain possession of the ball to keep them at bay. Joe Turfrey was creating himself alot of space and using the ball well with several crosses causing havoc in the Heckmondwike defence. Ossett’s dominant possession wasn’t quite paying off with more goals – James Ruane looped a header against the bar from a corner and Connor Daniel was just wide after a strong run. Heckmondwike showed the game wasn’t over with a run from midfield and cross-shot from the left of the box to make it 2-1.
Ossett didn’t let this upset their rhythm and a nice through ball by Dominic Sykes saw Joe Turfrey dart through only for the keeper to pip him to the ball. Ben Fox was showing good skill on the right of midfield as Ossett continued to dominate the game. Charlie Mountain was working hard in central midfield to ensure Ossett kept plenty of possession. Half time came with Ossett feeling they should be clear and with Heckmondwike believing they could still get something from the match.
Ossett opened the second half with Daniel Wright replacing Aaron Potter in goal and Aaron immediately using his right foot to dangerous effect. A corner and then a cross were whipped in and, ultimately, a shot poked against the post before getting cleared. Ossett had made their intentions clear and Ashley Young was soon prominent in central midfield and found Ben Fox with a peach of a cross – as if they were the only two players on the pitch – with Ben finishing sweetly with a first time effort for 3-1.
Joe Pygott and Dominic Sykes continued to link up well on the left and Ossett caused Heckmondwike’s defence problems, although they never stopped battling away. Joe Turfrey had gone close with a few efforts, before taking the game by the scruff of the neck, when good control allowed him to tee up a long range effort to make it 4-1. Before the timekeeper could work out how long had gone he was at it again. A nice lay off by Dominic Sykes set up another Joe Turfrey special for 5-1 Ossett.
Ossett had by this time changed formation, trying to finish off the game, and were in cruise control when a corner was cleared and Joe Turfrey picked up the ball and found James Ruane still upfield to take a neat close-range volley for 6-1. Connor Daniel was displaying some fantastic control and another run saw him beat three or four men but place his shot the wrong side of the upright. Connor then played a superb through ball to Joe Turfrey only for his shot to be blocked. Louis Spurr was keen to get involved and a purposeful run ended with a shot just wide.
Heckmondwike kept going and Daniel Wright needed to be alert to smother the ball and stop any danger from a quick break. It wasn’t long before Connor Daniel confirmed his player of the match award by turning his body and allowing the ball to run into position before whacking a tremendous shot home for 7-1 Ossett: excellent skill and determination in one move to clinch the award. The match finished off with Ben Fox crossing well for a nice finish by Louis Spurr to make it 8-1 Ossett.
That winning feeling was back for Ossett and, after a decent workout on a tough pitch, they were through to the next stage of the County Cup.
Sunday, 22 November
Huddersfield League U14 Division 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 5 Honley 7
Player of the Match – Connor Daniel
Goalscorers – Connor Daniel (3), Charlie Mountain and Daniel Wright
Top Gear
Ossett had an opportunity to test themselves against table-topping Honley and gauge how well they’ve adapted to Division One – continuing cup runs have meant a stop start league programme. Today’s game showed Ossett’s potential, as well as how tough it can be.
Ossett were out their blocks quick and Joe Turfrey fired an early sighter over the bar before going close from a corner. Honley’s response tested the Ossett defence, who worked well together to keep them at bay, whilst Dominic Sykes looked comfortable making an early save. Ossett’s dominance was soon confirmed when Connor Daniel took possession and created space outside the box before firing high over the keeper for 1-0 Ossett. Connor Daniel was dominating the ball and the keeper blocked another chance from him only for Daniel Wright to pick up the move and pass to Connor, who finished from close range. 2-0 Ossett. Billy Cundall was looking to get in on the act and his first-time left-footed volley flew wide.
More Ossett pressure saw their midfield putting some nice moves together across the pitch involving Ashley Young, Connor Daniel, Billy Cundall and Charlie Mountain. Joe Turfrey was firing in dangerous crosses as Ossett looked to build on their lead. Honley didn’t allow their heads to drop and were battling for every ball. The game was moving from end to end with Daniel Wright going on a strong run only for the keeper to block well with his legs. Dominic Sykes came out bravely to make a similar save at the other end. Ossett were flying and Connor Daniel turned provider when he crossed low for Charlie Mountain to slide in at the back post for 3-0 Ossett.
Once again, Honley continued to press and both James Ruane and Daniel Sheen had to be alert to win important headers and tackles to protect their clean sheet. Ben Fox was solid on the left and Louis Spurr covering well on the right. Finally, a Honley corner wasn’t cleared properly and a low shot through a crowded box saw them claw a goal back. 3-1 and some reward for Honley, which allowed them to go into half time with a spring in their step. An entertaining game was developing and all to play for.
Honley showed their intent with an early chance flying across the face of Ossett’s goal. It wasn’t long before another low shot crept in to make it 3-2. Honley were now showing their top-of-the-table form and Dominic Sykes had to save well from a header before watching a direct free kick fly over the bar.
Ossett needed to steady the game and Connor Daniel showed why he took the player of the match this week, with his power winning the ball, and exquisite skill to control it, before lifting it over the keeper for 4-2 Ossett. All did not go to plan as Honley came again and Dominic Sykes was unlucky when getting down low but not able to stop another Honley goal, 4-3. The game was up for grabs and Honley were looking a yard quicker and winning the tackles Ossett had been doing.
Aaron Potter was trying to change the flow on the right and did well to get a cross in but Ossett were unlucky as Daniel Wright and Connor Daniel both competed for the same ball before it broke free. Honley were proving very determined and a dangerous break saw Dominic Sykes come out well to snuff out the danger but concede an indirect free kick for picking up a back pass. Honley took full advantage when the ball smashed in despite efforts to clear it off the line. 4-4 and Ossett needed to respond. Ashley Young moved the ball well down the right and tried to play in Connor Daniel who was unlucky as he tried to break clear. Daniel Wright controlled the ball cleverly only to shoot wide across goal. Ashley Young then had a chance which the keeper comfortably saved.
Honley were swift on the break and caused problems down the Ossett right. The ball seemed to bounce around without being cleared and Honley took advantage to take the lead for the first time, 4-5. Joe Turfrey tried to do something about this turn of events and created himself an opportunity and then watched as the ball rolled agonisingly wide of the post. Ossett were desperate to get back on level terms and were leaving spaces in midfield and at the back, which Honley expertly took advantage of two more times to go 4-7 in the lead. Ossett never gave up and Joe Pygott was trying to push on down the left and see if Ossett could pull anything out of this game. Time was running out but still Ossett showed their own pride and determination by keeping going. Daniel Wright had a late shot just over the line to make it 5-7.
Full time saw Ossett heads bowed in defeat and trying to work out what had gone wrong. Well played to Honley for their strength to come back from three goals down and show what it’s like at the top of this division. Ossett showed enough in the game, and others recently, to know they can compete at this level. Whereas last season their first half performance was enough to win a game, they are learning that another gear is required when top teams respond. That’s the challenge for Ossett – to show they can respond to any challenge and take advantage of winning positions.
SUNDAY 15TH NOVEMBER 2009
LEAGUE CUP FIRST ROUND
“OSSETT TOWN DEFEAT SKELMANTHORPE IN THRILLER”
OSSETT TOWN UNDER 14’S B TEAM (4) 4 V SKELMANTHORPE (2) 3
SCORER: SAM PASHLEY 4
MAN OF THE MATCH: SAM PASHLEY
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town played host to division two Skelmanthorpe in the first round of the County Cup. From the whistle, the away team took the game to Ossett, and the defensive line up of Will Dann, Martin Preston and Waqas Awad had no chance in preventing Skelmanthorpe scoring the opener. Within two minutes, the visitors had scored their second due to an unfortunate penalty decision.
Over the past seasons Ossett have had some great games against Skelmanthorpe, could Town get hold of the game and make this another?
The answer was to be an emphatic “yes”. From the kick off Sam Pashley took hold of the ball, ran to the goal and slotted in a great individual goal. Ossett now began to get into the game, Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale were taking control of the midfield, Chris Scott and Jaz Ahmed were finding space on either wing. The next three minutes saw Sam Pashley score his hat trick, first from a great clearance from Ryan White out of defense saw Sam run practically the length of the pitch to score a great goal, his third was a great individual piece of skill from a great through ball from Jack Lonsdale.
The visitors as we know from the past encounters have some excellent players and were not letting Ossett have it all their own way. Liam and Martin Preston were making some excellent tackles, Waqas Awad was defending manfully and Will Dann was in great form preventing the excellent Skelmanthorpe attack from making ground.
On the occasions they managed to penetrate the defense they found Keeper Tom Rogers in excellent form.
The game was going from end to end with both sides playing excellent football.
It was Ossett again taking the advantage, after a great tackle and through ball from who else but Jack Lonsdale, finding Sam Pashley who again scored a brilliant goal.
The first half finished with Ossett deserving the lead.
The second half saw Tom Hobson coming on for the injured Will Dann, Chris Scott making way for Alex Hall and Jamie Carney replacing Jaz Ahmed.
Ossett started the second half looking likely to score again with both Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley forcing good saves from the inform Skelmanthorpe keeper.
But it was the visitors who scored a good goal to make the score 4-3.
This cup-tie was now turning into a real thriller with both sides committing 100%.
The visitors were looking for the equalizer but with Mo Sidat covering back and Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale in midfield they were finding it very difficult to get through to the goal area.
When they did they had to contend with the strong tackles of Liam and Martin Preston, Waqas Awad and Tom Hobson. As Skelmanthorpe pressed, gaps appeared in the defense and both Sam Pashley and Ryan White came close.
The final whistle blew with Ossett Town the winners 4-3.
What a great game of football, played in a very competitive but fair spirit and a fantastic advert for junior football. The home side was brilliant in defeating a side that is second top of the second division. Every Ossett Town player should be extremely proud of their own individual efforts and determination in holding onto the lead when the visitors were looking to equalize. Man of the match went to Sam Pashley for a master class in goal scoring. This was a fantastic team performance and hard to pick out individuals for special praise. But special mentions have to go to the captain Ryan White and Jack Lonsdale for the way they controlled the midfield and battled to the end. Keeper Tom Rogers also deserves a mention for a great display in goal
Well done again Ossett Town SUPERB!
Sunday, 15 November
Heavy Woollen FA Secker Cup Round 3 (Quarter Final)
Ossett Albion A 1 Ossett Town Juniors A 5
Player of the Match – Ashley Young
Goalscorers – Daniel Wright (2), Charlie Mountain, Ashley Young and Connor Daniel
Derby Day Delight for Town
The tension was in the air as Albion and Town lined up for this age group’s first eleven-a-side encounter with a semi final place at stake. Both teams were familiar to each other, yet neither could be sure what to expect.
It was Town who set the pace straight from the kick off with a smart move which ended with Connor Daniel lifting a shot over the bar. Soon after Joe Turfrey went on a good run to set up Daniel Wright for a low shot which was well saved by the keeper. This set an early pattern where both Joe Turfrey and Daniel Wright caused Albion’s defence plenty of problems. A Daniel Wright free kick was saved by the keeper and then his good run helped set up a Joe Turfrey shot. The Albion keeper was reading the game well and calmly collecting any through balls, although Daniel Wright was giving him plenty to think about, especially when he got there first and touched it past him, only for the keeper to make a clean tackle and put the ball out for a corner. From the resulting corner Daniel Wright knocked it just wide.
Town were looking to get an edge in the game and Aaron Potter was next to have a long range pot shot. There was still the worry of not taking chances and Albion gave a reminder of their threat when a free kick hit Town’s crossbar before being cleared. This added some impetus to Albion’s play and the game became more congested. Aaron Potter was anticipating attacks well and looking to keep Albion at bay, alongside his defensive colleagues.
Connor Daniel and Billy Cundall were heavily involved in the midfield battle and looking to release Town’s attacking potential. Daniel Wright took the game by the scruff of the neck when collecting the ball on the right-hand side of the box and driving a powerful shot past the keeper for 1-0 Town. Albion’s defences had been breached and a stinging Joe Turfrey drive couldn’t be held by the keeper and Charlie Mountain made a brave challenge for the ball which broke to him to finish from close range. 2-0 Town.
A fantastic move started by some neat close control by Charlie Mountain and involving Connor Daniel and Billy Cundall, ended up at the feet of Ashley Young. Captain for the day Young showed great vision to hit the ball early and from distance to lob the keeper for an excellent finish and 3-0 Town. Town were now dominating possession and Connor Daniel capped some fine play by turning neatly in the box to knock a left foot shot into the top corner. 4-0 Town.
Joe Turfrey was working the defence and, eager to get on the scoresheet, had another shot saved. The half ended with Town on top after working hard to get their advantage and then pressing it home with some great finishes.
The second half saw Town continue their good work with another mazy run into the box from Connor Daniel who cleverly laid the ball off to Daniel Wright to side foot in for 5-0 Town. Joe Turfrey was still lining up his left foot and one powerful effort skidded off the bar causing havoc in the Albion box before being gathered by the keeper.
Billy Cundall was making his presence felt in central midfield alongside Connor Daniel’s probing play. Charlie Mountain and Ashley Young were constantly looking to be creative on the flanks, with Ashley being a regular menace on the right, always bringing team mates into play, which, along with his work rate and goal, clinched the player of the match award.
Albion were working hard and had not given up. Whenever keeper Dominic Sykes was required he confidently claimed possession and was helped out by some strong defensive play by Daniel Sheen. Louis Spurr was strong in the tackle whilst taking advantage of any chance to break forward. Joe Pygott was working hard on the left, tackling hard and linking up well with the midfield.
Albion were still pressing and Dominic Sykes did well to save a strong shot before Town old boy, James Furlong, was quick to pounce on the rebound to claim one back for Albion. This gave Albion a spring in their step and increased their possession. Town’s defence was increasingly involved and James Ruane and Daniel Sheen had to be alert to clear their lines. Town’s play had become scrappy at this stage until, after containing Albion, they were able to create some late chances. Connor Daniel’s run from deep took him past several defenders only to blast his shot high over the bar; nice play from Joe Turfrey fed Daniel Wright, who dragged his shot wide under pressure; and Billy Cundall showed nice control to set himself up, only for his shot to be saved.
The game finished with both teams having given a good account of themselves. Town’s great start gave them the leeway to overcome a more even second half, where Albion stepped up their play, but the quality of Town’s attacking play saw them through to the semi final.
CUP RUN CONTINUES AS TOWN TAKE ON THE HARROGATE LEAGUE
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
West Riding County Cup 2nd Round
WIGTON MOOR UNITED 2 v 3 OSSETT TOWN B
Scorer: Mo Sidat (3)
Man of the Match: Ryan White
8th November 2009
Report by Brian Hobson
After knocking out the team 2nd in Division 1 of the Harrogate League, Town went one better and beat the league leaders in a thrilling cup-tie thanks to a hat-trick from the excellent Mo Sidat.
With Liam and Martin Preston returning to the defence after a 3-week absence, Ossett started well and quickly took control, taking advantage of the slope. The midfield of Adam Horsfall, Ryan White, Jack Lonsdale and Alex Hall were fighting tigerishly, a feature of the whole game, and the front 2 of Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat were willing runners for the passes that came. It was no surprise when Town took the lead on 7 minutes; a terrific Adam Horsfall cross was headed up by a defender and Mo Sidat nodded it in.
Ossett continued to create the most chances, and the pace and strength of the front 2 caused the good home defence no end of headaches. Mo Sidat flashed a shot across goal after a fine run, then Sam Pashley rounded the keeper only to fire wide after a great Jack Lonsdale – Mo Sidat move.
It was far from being one-way traffic though, and it took wonderful tackles by Waqas Awad and Liam Preston to prevent clear chances for Wigton Moor (Nick has clearly taught Liam all he knows). Martin Preston’s cool presence coupled with strong tackling from Josh Hartshorne proved vital as Ossett steadied and re-asserted themselves on the game, Mo Sidat having 2 good chances only to be forced too wide by the excellent Wigton Moor keeper.
As half-time approached the hosts fired a warning sign when a shot clipped the outside of the post after an excellent move, and a minute before the break they equalised when a player was allowed to wriggle through and produce a fine finish.
Half time saw the introduction of Jamie Carney wide right and Tom Hobson at left back, and straight away a Liam Preston thunderbolt was well saved. Wigton Moor then pressed, producing a tame shot when clear then drawing a fine save from Tom Rogers. The game then turned on its head, though, as Jamie Carney produced a defence-splitting pass for Mo Sidat to nearly break the net with his finish.
With Will Dann now on the left of midfield, Town threatened to run away with it. Sam Pashley latched onto an Adam Horsfall header to be denied by a great save, but on 47 minutes they did make it 3-1. Mo Sidat completed his hat-trick with a superb individual goal, dancing past defenders as though they were invisible then slotting it home.
2 minutes later Wigton Moor were back in it through a penalty which Town’s players felt was outside the area, and the last 20 minutes were a classic example of a cup-tie, both teams giving it 100%. Town’s defence had to withstand periods of intense pressure, which they did manfully, while at the other end Sam Pashley, Will Dann, Adam Horsfall and Mo Sidat all had good chances to make it safe. In the end Town held on for a well-earned victory and a place in the 3rd round.
Credit must go to the whole team for this performance. Playing a top side which weren’t the tallest but played good football in the right spirit, the game ebbed and flowed but Ossett showed all their qualities to win. They never stopped running, passed it well and with more cool heads in front of goal could have finished the game off.
Man of the match went to Ryan White for a dominant midfield performance.
Sunday, 8 November
County Cup Round 2
Ossett Town Juniors A 6 Warley Rangers 3
Player of the Match – Luke Smith
Goalscorers – Joe Turfrey (3), Charlie Mountain, Luke Smith and Ross Peters
Blowin’ In The Wind
You could’ve heard a pin drop as the players, coaches and supporters of both sides immaculately observed a minute’s silence for Remembrance Sunday. This County Cup encounter proved to be an entertaining game that warmed up the crowd on a cold, still, autumnal afternoon.
A cagey start to the match saw both teams assessing their opponent’s strengths before settling down into an established pattern. Ossett gradually gained more possession, as shown by Dominic Sykes’ two shots, provided courtesy of two great balls by Joe Turfrey. Warley had a good shape to their play and were probing the Ossett defence, who were determined to keep them at bay.
Ashley Young was distributing the ball well in central midfield and Ossett were getting closer. Dominic Sykes used his strength to win the ball and knock it past the keeper, only for it to be cleared by the last man. From the resulting corner, Connor Daniel’s header was also cleared off the line. Warley were dangerous with high balls deep into the Ossett defence but both Daniel Sheen and Daniel Wright were reading them well and getting in some decisive headers. Aaron Potter was playing well from his unaccustomed left back berth and Louis Spurr was using the ball to support his midfield whenever he could.
Ossett kept up their attacks and Aaron Potter had a shot well held by the Warley keeper. Although the signs had been there, it was still a surprise when a long ball from the keeper was allowed to bounce near the Ossett box, causing confusion, and allowing the attacker to lob keeper Tom Padgett, giving him no chance: 1-0 Warley.
Connor Daniel and Joe Turfrey accepted this challenge and became more prominent in causing problems for Warley’s defence. Connor’s tackles were helping to drive Ossett forward and he was linking up well with Ashley Young, both players looking to spread the ball wide. Billy Cundall was probing down the right and had one rocket shot just wide. An Ossett break from a corner saw a good run by Joe Turfrey, followed by a nice interchange of passes with Dominic Sykes, with Joe’s low cross-shot beating the keeper, but also the wrong side of the far post. This proved to be a warm up as another excellent run from Joe Turfrey saw him lay it off to Dominic Sykes, who did great to set it up perfectly for Joe to fire a shot into the top corner, which the keeper couldn’t hold, for 1-1.
The game was well contested and both Charlie Mountain and Dominic Sykes were involved in brave challenges to gain possession for their team. The defence was still having to work hard and keeper Tom Padgett was handling the ball well, being vocal to ensure everyone knew when he was claiming the ball. A great Ossett move, involving several one touch passes, ended with a first time shot by advancing fullback Louis Spurr, which the keeper did well to hold. A deep free kick by Aaron Potter was won by Ashley Young and dropped to Joe Turfrey, whose right foot shot was just high and wide. Ossett’s pressure was building and, again, it was a surprise when a ball through the middle caused confusion in the defence and Warley lobbed the keeper for 2-1 Warley right on half time. How would Ossett react? The answer, my friend, was blowin’ in the wind.
The second half saw Ossett come fast out of the blocks and a great move involving Daniel Sheen, Louis Spurr and Luke Smith got the ball to Daniel Wright, now up front, who used his strength and pace to fire in a cross for Joe Turfrey to side foot in the equaliser: 2-2. Luke Smith was proving a handful out wide on the right, with Billy Cundall now helping to dictate the game in a central partnership with Connor Daniel. Ossett’s confidence was up and a lovely back heel from Joe Turfrey set Connor Daniel free to run at the defence and draw the keeper. Unfortunately, his low shot curled the wrong side of the post. Luke Smith was showing excellent skill and close control to probe away at Warley. One passage of play demonstrated how he earned this week’s player of the match award, when keeping the ball whilst under pressure from several defenders, the ball eventually ending up on the left hand side of the box for Charlie Mountain to chip the keeper for 3-2 Ossett.
Warley responded to going behind for the first time and were desperate to get back on level terms. Ashley Young, now in centre of defence, was calm when dealing with any attacks and worked well alongside the dependable Daniel Sheen. Aiden Midgley was on at left back and proved to be strong in the tackle and helped keep Ossett’s shape. Ossett weren’t prepared to leave it at that and Joe Turfrey put Luke Smith through, who finished clinically for 4-2 Ossett.
Ross Peters was now on at left midfield and was linking well with Aiden Midgley on the flank as well as Joe Turfrey. Ossett were now full of confidence and producing some cracking play. Daniel Wright was buzzing up front and Ossett created further chances for Joe Turfrey and Billy Cundall. A quick throw by Daniel Wright fell to Ross Peters who was able to slide the ball under the keeper for 5-2 Ossett. Joe Turfrey and Connor Daniel also had shots before Warley took advantage from a wide free kick to dent Ossett’s forward momentum and claw back a goal for 5-3. This provided Warley with another spring to their step but Ossett were still battling for every ball.
Ossett kept going forward and Joe Turfrey claimed a deserved hat trick with a slice of luck his hard work earned when a clearance hit him and flew in for 6-3 Ossett. There was still time for Ossett to hit the bar through a Joe Turfrey free kick and Billy Cundall did well to create himself room for a shot. Full time saw both teams receive a generous round of applause for a cracking game.
How many games can Ossett play through, before they are injury free? Yes, ‘n’ how many rounds can one team win, to conquer the County Cup? The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind. Well done Ossett for beating a good team and all the players for adapting to difficult circumstances.
Sunday, 25 October
OSSETT GOAL-RUSH AS ROTHWELL BLOWN AWAY
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
OSSETT TOWN 18 v 0 ROTHWELL
Scorers: Sam Pashley (6), Mo Sidat (6), Jack Lonsdale (2), Tom Rogers (2), Ryan White, Chris Scott
Man of the Match: Will Dann
Report by Brian Hobson
Town produced another scintillating performance of quality football to cruise to an emphatic victory and maintain their 100% league record.
With several players absent, Town only had 1 substitute, but they started well in the sunny, blustery conditions and took a grip of the game with 3 goals in the first 5 minutes. First Jack Lonsdale’s shot crept in after Mo Sidat had flicked on Ryan White’s throw, then a terrific Waqas Awad header fell to White who put Sidat away to finish well. White was creator again for the 3rd, this time sending Sam Pashley clear to slot it home.
The Ossett midfield of Adam Horsfall, Ryan White, Jack Lonsdale and Jaz Ahmed were well in control of the centre of the park and as well as supplying forwards Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley with chances, all took opportunities to get forward themselves, with Lonsdale and Horsfall both firing over after 2 great moves.
Midway through the half it was 4-0, Mo Sidat’s shot deflecting in off a defender after a great run, and a minute later Sam Pashley got his 2nd after the move of the match down the right involving Adam Horsfall, Jack Lonsdale and Mo Sidat.
A Rothwell defender was injured during the 5th goal, and with no substitutes they had to carry on with 10 men. Keeper Tom Rogers and the back 4 of Will Dann, Josh Hartshorne, Waqas Awad and Chris Scott had very little defending to do, such was Ossett’s dominance, and 5 more goals in 11 minutes before the break gave an emphatic scoreline. Adam Horsfall fed Ryan White to slot home for his goal, then Horsfall twice set up Mo Sidat with perfect crosses to complete his hat-trick. The first came from a wonderful Jack Lonsdale pass, the second a carbon copy after Sam Pashley found Horsfall with a great ball.
It was 10-0 by half-time, Sam Pashley heading home a Ryan White corner then firing in another White cross, and during the break Ossett were able to bring on substitute Tom Hobson on his return from injury, to slot in at left-back as they rotated the team during the 2nd half.
It took 8 minutes before Town added to the score, Mo Sidat heading in Sam Pashley’s cross, and 2 minutes later Sidat knocked in the rebound after Ryan White’s shot was saved. A harshly-awarded penalty then gave Tom Hobson the chance to score his first goal for 6 years, only for his spot-kick to come crashing back off the bar. Town soon made it unlucky 13, however, when Sam Pashley fired home after a great Mo Sidat pass, and Town now took the chance to give keeper Tom Rogers a run-out up front. Adam Horsfall gave up the chance to get the goal his ‘electric’ performance deserved by going in goal.
On 56 minutes Chris Scott made it 14-0 firing it in from a tight angle, and 3 minutes later Sam Pashley scored a fine individual goal. A minute later Tom Rogers made his mark, an excellent finish from a perfect Pashley ball.
To their credit, Rothwell kept their heads up and came very close to getting a consolation goal, only to be denied by a double Waqas Awad goal-line clearance, and Town rounded off a fine win with a scrambled Tom Rogers goal and a Jack Lonsdale header from Ryan White’s cross.
This was as close to a perfect performance as Town are likely to get. Solid at the back, winning nearly every 50/50 challenge in the middle and playing some exceptional football to score some wonderful goals. The most pleasing thing was that they didn’t just hoof long balls down the middle to chase, they passed the opposition to death and played the game the way it’s meant to be played, always looking for a pass to a team-mate.
Man of the match went to Will Dann, now fit and back to his best with a fine display, but this was a game with 12 men-of-the-match. Well done everyone!
Ossett Town A - Sunday 25 October 2009
Brighouse Town 3 Ossett Town Juniors A 2
Player of the Match – Charlie Mountain
Goalscorers – Daniel Wright and Connor Daniel
Ossett walk the line
Ossett walked the line between success and failure at Brighouse Town in an excellent game of football, with real quality on both sides. This cracking encounter provided plenty for all the spectators, huddled in the stand away from the rain, to remember.
Ossett kicked off and looked confident, with keeper Dominic Sykes getting an early touch, as they passed the ball around from back to front and Ossett’s midfield taking early control of the game. This superiority paid off when Joe Turfrey played a ball in for Daniel Wright to challenge for. There was still a lot to do but, showing tremendous strength and pace, Daniel Wright slid the ball past the advancing keeper for 1-0 Ossett.
Connor Daniel was making powerful tackles in the middle to keep Ossett in control and his partnership with Ashley Young, who was always looking dangerous advancing forward with the ball, was keeping Ossett on top. Brighouse responded with some good possession but Ossett’s defence was playing well as a unit and were able to protect their goal. When called upon Dominic Sykes was in excellent form and collected the ball bravely on the edge of his box. His distribution and clearances were helping Ossett stay in control. Brighouse were pushing forward and winning corners but Ossett were defending any danger well. Ashley Young led Ossett’s response with a good run, Connor Daniel kept it going with a crunching challenge before Daniel Wright’s shot kept Brighouse on their toes.
A brilliant run down the right by Daniel Wright, again showing fantastic strength and pace, led him into the box, where his cross shot caused havoc and eventually fell to Connor Daniel who made sure for 2-0 Ossett. This buoyed Ossett and saw them confidently passing the ball through midfield but Brighouse showed their character with some good play of their own. Daniel Sheen and James Ruane were strong in the tackle at the back and Ben Fox and Louis Spurr were covering Brighouse’s runs down the wing whilst always keeping on the lookout to get forward. Dominic Sykes was confident when called upon, Brighouse being mainly restricted to long range efforts, by gathering anything dangerous. Brighouse gave a warning of things to come near the end of the half when a low shot slid wide off Ossett’s post.
The rain had relented by the time the second half began and again Ossett showed their attacking intent straightaway. They were challenging Brighouse and looking to stretch their lead as Connor Daniel made another strong run. Brighouse showed their character again by increasing their pressure and gaining more possession. Ossett were disrupted when Daniel Sheen took a knock and the formation had to be shuffled around, although Ossett continued working hard for each other to stay on top. Every player was putting in a big shift, typified by player of the match Charlie Mountain winning a crunching 50/50 tackle to gain possession for Ossett. Non-stop running and covering as well as some nice creative touches earned him the award this week.
The tough conditions were making this an all round test, one which Ossett were up to. Both Aaron Potter and Joe Pygott were involved out wide on either flank, trying to move forward but having to work back and help their defensive colleagues. The change in formation saw a period of adjustment and Ossett were more on the back foot as Brighouse continued to press to get back into the game. Ossett’s passing was now becoming more long range and possession becoming harder to retain. They were still providing a threat as a great run and shot by Connor Daniel was well saved and Joe Turfrey had a low shot gathered by the keeper.
Brighouse won a series of dangerous free kicks and Ossett’s strength of character was getting the ball cleared, with Dominic Sykes again saving well when required to. From one free kick, the ball was bouncing about their box and Ossett conceded a penalty. The excellent Dominic Sykes was beaten by a well struck effort and it was now 2-1.
This was inside the last 15 minutes and Ossett were defending in numbers but were visibly tiring – having two players unavailable from the squad was starting to show. They always kept looking to attack to make the game safe but two sucker punches were in store. Tired legs weren’t clearing the ball as far and two late goals from close range allowed Brighouse to take the game from Ossett at the death.
Disappointment for Ossett when maybe a draw would have been a fairer result. The lads can take heart from their endeavour and passion in a great performance against a top side – as well as lessons to be learnt that will only improve their game. Plenty of incidents to remember in a smashing game where Ossett just fell the wrong side of the line.
SUNDAY 18th OCTOBER 2009
SECKER CUP SECOND ROUND
‘OSSETT BEATEN IN CUP BUT WITH PRIDE INTACT’ OSSETT TOWN UNDER 14’S ‘B’ TEAM v WYKE WANDERERS
OSSETT TOWN (1) 3 v WYKE WANDERERS (1) 5
SCORERS: MO SIDAT 3
MEN OF THE MATCH: ADAM HORSFALL, JACK LONSDALE
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town traveled away to the one of the form teams in division two and full of confidence after the teams recent run of great results.
From the whistle Ossett took the game to Wyke.
The forward line of Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat were soon causing the Wyke defense all kinds of problems.
Midfield saw Adam Horsfall, Captain Ryan White, Jack Lonsdale and Jaz Ahmed. They knew they were in for a battle but with every tackle were relishing the challenge.
The defensive line up of Chris Scott, Waqas Awad, Josh Hartshorne and Alex Hall were looking solid as Wyke tried to make an impression.
On the odd occasion they managed a shot, goalkeeper Tom Rogers was on hand to mop up the pressure and set the midfield away on the counter attack.
Adam Horsfall was soon in the thick of it, as he was to be all the game, looking to play the ball out of midfield and covering back when needed.
Against the run of play Wyke found the net, only to have the goal disallowed for off side.
This spurred Ossett on, and after a great ball through from Adam Horsfall, Mo Sidat somehow found some space to score into the bottom corner.
Wyke now started to pressurize the Town back line and Tom Rogers had to be at his best to prevent an equalizer.
The game was now starting to become physical with Town giving as much as they were receiving, Jack Lonsdale and Ryan White were throwing everything they had to prevent a well-organized Wyke from playing.
Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley were finding it difficult to find room up front as the home teams defense were very well organized.
On 30 minutes Wyke found themselves level after a great individual goal leaving Tom Rogers with no chance.
The half continued with end-to-end football and as the whistle blew Wyke must have considered themselves lucky to be drawing.
The second half saw Ossett make a change with Will Dann now on for Jazz Ahmed.
Straight away Ossett took the game to Wyke and within two minutes Jack Lonsdale saw Mo Sidat in space to make it 2-1 to Ossett.
Again Ossett Town were coming out on top of a very bruising encounter, Mo Sidat found himself in space only to be brought down in the penalty area. The resulting spot kick saw Mo score his hat trick and Ossett go 3-1 up.
Wyke seemed to have no answer to the relentless tackling of Jack Lonsdale and Adam Horsfall.
Wyke now started to show why they are one of the top sides in division two, first a great individual goal and the second goal, from a free kick which should never have been awarded, saw the home team now draw level.
As the final whistle approached both sides went looking for the win but were unable to do so.
Extra time continued as the second half had ended, with every Ossett player putting everything into trying to win the game.
As the first half of extra time approached Wyke found themselves 4-3 to the good after an unstoppable free kick.
The second half was again muck like the first with Ossett pressing but unable to find they’re way through a very good defensive line.
As Ossett tired, as they had only one substitute, Wyke scored there fifth and that is how the game ended.
What a great game of football to watch and a fantastic advertisement to junior football.
Both sides should feel immensely proud of there commitment.
Ossett Town despite having a reduced squad managed to take control of a large portion of the match only to find themselves on the loosing end of a fantastic game.
Adam Horsfall and Jack Londale found themselves joint men of the match for a superb and physical encounter.
Mo Sidat scored a memorable hat trick and could have scored a couple more. Ryan White again had a great captains performance, and Waqas Awad in defensive was excellent.
But this was all about the team performance, which was superb. All the players involved should be proud of there own contributions.
If we could play this game again with a full squad and be on the right side of some dubious decisions then maybe the result could have been different.
Next week we get back to league duties with Rothwell and on today’s form I think they may be in for a hard game.
Well done Ossett Town for competing in one of the best games I have watched for a long time.
Sunday, 18 October
Heavy Woollen FA Secker Cup Round 2
Heckmondwike Town 1 Ossett Town Juniors A 8
Player of the Match – Aaron Potter
Goalscorers – Aaron Potter (2), Connor Daniel (2), Ben Fox, Joe Turfrey, Daniel Wright and James Ruane
Ossett GET ON WITH IT
Ossett were back in Cup action and looking for a no nonsense performance to progress against their lower division opponents.
Ossett were out of the blocks quickly when Connor Daniel showed he was in the mood by taking control of the ball in the centre of the park and firing a screamer high over the keeper for 1-0 Ossett. Heckmondwike gave signs they weren’t going to roll over when they picked the ball up after a mix up in clearing Ossett’s lines and tested stand in keeper Charlie Mountain, who did well in keeping his eye on the ball to make a good save.
After the opening skirmishes Ossett were having plenty of play without creating too many clear cut chances. Dominic Sykes was leading the line well and showed good close control in the box to set up Billy Cundall, who side-footed the chance wide. Dominic was then unfortunate to see his close range shot scooped along the line by the keeper before being cleared off it by a defender. Ossett’s increased pressure paid off when Connor Daniel took charge on the edge of the box and put a left foot shot low into the far corner for 2-0 Ossett. Joe Turfrey was working hard and getting into the action but having no luck as he saw shots go into the side netting, just wide and then over the bar. Aaron Potter was playing some great stuff on the left and a lovely side foot volleyed pass started a cross field move which finished with a strong drive by Ben Fox to make it 3-0 Ossett.
Ossett had settled and were playing some neat football on the ground with Ashley Young, Aaron Potter and Billy Cundall always looking to be positive and put team mates through on goal. Connor Daniel was running the midfield whenever he gained possession. If Heckmondwike asked any questions the defence was on hand to deal with it. Joe Pygott made several interceptions on the left and was using the ball to good effect; Ben Fox being strong in the tackle and neat and tidy on the right. Charlie Mountain showed assured handling when called upon and Daniel Sheen was driving forward whenever he could, with James Ruane clearing his lines whenever called on. Ossett finished the half in control at 3-0.
Aaron Potter was soon showing why he was awarded the player of the match with plenty of great link up play, lovely use of the ball, all complemented by plenty of tackles. This was rewarded early in the second half when excellent chest control allowed him to knock the ball into the far corner for 4-0 Ossett. Daniel Wright was by now causing problems for Heckmondwike when trying to force shooting opportunities. Louis Spurr was on the right of midfield and having some success charging forward and putting in some dangerous crosses. Joe Turfrey was still using the ball tidily but couldn’t make it pay, being unlucky to have a shot deflected over and the keeper turning one shot round the post.
An Ossett corner led to a scramble in the Heckmondwike box which Ossett couldn’t finish off until it ended up at the feet of Aaron Potter, whose low drive across the box flew into the corner to make it 5-0. Heckmondwike were trying to change things around and deserve credit for constantly looking to break forward. Charlie Mountain had to be alert to save well on one occasion. Daniel Wright then put a precision ball through for Joe Turfrey, only for the keeper to save bravely at his feet.
Ossett were now having plenty of chances, without taking them, and Heckmondwike pulled one back with a shot high into the top corner. This stung Ossett back into action and Daniel Wright’s low drive gave the keeper no chance to make it 6-1 Ossett. Joe Turfrey finally got himself on the score sheet when he took a nice ball from Dominic Sykes to make it 7-1. Aaron Potter nearly benefitted from a Joe Turfrey corner but put his header, and chance of a hat-trick, the wrong side of the post. James Ruane was up from the back for the next corner and was able to nod one in for 8-1 to complete the scoring for the day. There was still time for both Connor Daniel and Joe Turfrey to go close before time was up.
A hardworking Ossett performance earned a deserved victory to put them through to the last eight. Ossett certainly got on with it and asserted their authority to good effect.
Sunday, 11 October
Hepworth United 0 Ossett Town Juniors A 5
Player of the Match – Daniel Sheen
Goalscorers – Joe Turfrey (2), Connor Daniel (2) and Ashley Young
Winning down Wembley Way
Ossett put on their best performance of the season so far, playing excellent football worthy of a big stage, or even little Wembley. Conditions underfoot were slippery but once Ossett got the feel of the pitch they were able to knock the ball about with confidence and showed some great touches and powerful play.
Early on it was more of a midfield tussle, with Ossett able to get on top and confirm their dominance when Joe Turfrey picked up a Daniel Wright head-on to poke in the opening goal. 1-0 Ossett. Connor Daniel was linking well with Billy Cundall out wide, who received the ball after a great move and tested the keeper with a hard and low shot. Ashley Young was winning plenty of possession in midfield to enable Ossett to build their attacks. Hepworth, though, were always looking to get forward, and Dominic Sykes had to be alert when tested from long range to get down well and save. A couple of dangerous corners were well cleared by the Ossett defence and Dominic Sykes showed his increasing confidence when punching the ball clear.
Both Daniel Wright and Joe Turfrey showed an excellent work rate up front and, after a nice move involving Aaron Potter, Daniel Wright drew the keeper out but his shot from outside the box went across the goal and just wide. Ossett’s play was becoming more assured with some great football down the left which started with Ben Fox and involved Charlie Mountain, Aaron Potter and Daniel Wright. Connor Daniel improved the scoreline with a low drive from the edge of the box, with 2-0 Ossett a better reflection on the play.
Ossett were steadily building up more pressure, with the whole team contributing to the football. Daniel Sheen put a header narrowly wide from a corner and displayed excellent composure on the ball throughout the game, as part of a strong defensive unit, which saw him pick up the player of the match award. Any pressure Hepworth were able to put on was swept clear by Dominic Sykes, alert to any through balls. Ossett capped an excellent half with some brilliant football across the pitch which led to a thunderbolt from Connor Daniel grazing across the bar. The ball wasn’t cleared and Ashley Young was on hand to bundle the ball in from close range for 3-0.
The second half started with Ossett picking up their quality football straight away. They weren’t even put off by the increased number of tightly fitted yellow bibs on the sidelines. Connor Daniel was constantly looking to drive forward with the ball and providing chances for team mates. Ashley Young knocked a first time shot wide and Charlie Mountain did well with a side-foot volley which the keeper saved. Two fantastic goals in quick succession cut down any hopes of a Hepworth fight back. Connor Daniel sent an unstoppable left foot drive high into the top corner for 4-0 and Joe Turfrey put one over the keeper from the edge of the box with his right foot. 5-0 Ossett.
Ossett’s football was great to watch: Joe Turfrey’s hardworking performance was nearly rewarded with another goal but he had shots deflected wide and turned wide by the keeper; Joe Pygott was putting some lovely balls down the left channel and Billy Cundall was playing some neat football; Charlie Mountain showed great skill to beat his man several times and put some testing crosses in and had a strong shot well saved; Daniel Wright showed great control to turn sharply but his shot was the wrong side of the post.
Ossett’s football was complemented by some strong defensive play, Daniel Sheen confident on the ball and James Ruane and Louis Spurr winning some great tackles. Playing the ball on the floor and with everyone showing a confident touch meant Ossett never stopped moving forward. Several dangerous crosses were causing Hepworth problems but Ossett weren’t able to get on the end of any. The clock was running down, some people were on the pitch, they thought it was all over. It was now.
A fine all round team performance from Ossett, getting back to their own high standards – a pleasure to watch for all Ossett followers. Keeping to this level is the challenge.
SUNDAY 11th OCTOBER 2009
‘OSSETT BLOW AWAY DALTON IN GREAT DISPLAY’
OSSETT TOWN UNDER 14’S ‘B’ TEAM v DALTON DYNAMOS
OSSETT TOWN (7) 12 v DALTON DYNAMOS (2) 2
SCORERS: RYAN WHITE, SAM PASHLEY 6, MO SIDAT 3, ADAM HORSFALL, and JACK LONSDALE
MAN OF THE MATCH: JOSH HARTSHORNE
MATCH REPORTER: BOB DANN
Ossett Town came into the match on the back of some very good recent results, but as we know from the pre season friendly Dalton are a very good side.
The starting line up was Tom Rogers in goal, with Josh Hartshorne, Waqas Awad, Chris Scott and Alex Hall in defense. The midfield saw Jazz Ahmed, Jack Lonsdale, Adam Horsfall, and captain Ryan White team up, leaving Mo Sidat and Sam Pashley up front.
The game kicked off and Town took the game straight to Dalton, with Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat passing well and causing the Dynamos defense all kinds of problems.
The early minutes saw Sam Pashley shoot just wide, and then saw him fall foul of a couple of off side decisions.
Both sets of players were finding it difficult to settle due to the very blustery conditions.
Dalton were now pressing but Jack Lonsdale in midfield was proving a real obstacle, on the rare occasions they managed to get through Waqas Awad and Josh Hartshorne took control and converted Defense into attack.
After only three minutes Tom Rogers saw Mo Sidat in space delivered a pin point kick to him, Mo then ran half of the pitch to score Ossett’s first.
Dalton again pressed but found Adam Horsfall and Jazz Ahmed in great form, and quickly snubbing out any attack.
The Ossett Town captain Ryan White was also in superb form linking well with his attackers and a great through ball from Adam Horsfall saw Ryan slot the ball into the corner to make it 2-0.
Ossett still continued to pile on the pressure forcing some good saves from the Dalton keeper.
On 17 minutes Sam Pashley picked up a pass from Chris Scott on the half way line, run the rest of the pitch and scored his first of the afternoon and Ossett’s third.
As we know from pre season Dalton are a good side and they again started to press and Jack Londale was in the thick of it putting in some great tackles to thwart the Dalton attack.
Jack now turned defense into attack and hit a shot from 30 yards (or was it 35 yards) to beat the keeper and make it 4-0.
Again the wind was proving to be a difficult for both teams, and from the kick off Dalton floated a high ball into the wind and for once the Town defense mis-judged the flight and allowed Dalton to score.
As the first half drew to the end the spectators were treated to a fantastic last few minutes. First Mo Sidat after a great run squared the ball to Sam Pashley the make it 5-1. Mo then took the responsibility himself to make the score Ossett 6 Dalton 1.
Ossett then substituted Alex Hall for Will Dann at right back.
Another high ball into the wind saw Dalton manage to score there second.
From the kick off Adam Horsfall (who gets better with every match) took control of the ball to score a great goal to make the half time score Ossett 7 Dalton 2.
The second half now with the wind behind them saw Ossett take total control of the game, as the opposition could not get into the home teams half.
Ossett had shot after shot go close or come off the bar and also found the Dynamos keeper in great form.
It was only a matter of time before Ossett made it 8. Sam Pashley picked up a great ball from Adam Horsfall and slotted the ball into the corner of the net.
Five minutes later Mo Sidat scored a great goal to make it 9.
Ossett’s tenth was a mirror of the eighth as Adam Horsfall won the ball with a crunching tackle played it into the Sam Pashley who lifted the ball over the keeper.
As the game came to an end there was time for Ossett to score another two goals.
The first came from a great ball from Jack Lonsdale (who had been superb all afternoon) finding Sam Pashley to score.
The second saw Will Dann provide a great ball to Sam Pashley who scored his sixth goal of the game.
The final score was Ossett Town 12 Dalton Dynamos 2.
Dalton Dynamos came to Highfield today expecting to win, but they came up against an Ossett Town team with every single player being on top form and playing as complete unit despite the blustery conditions.
It is difficult to pick out individual players but Waqas Awad in defense was Superb, Chris Scott playing in the unfamiliar left back position was very good, Jack Lonsdale in midfield stopped most Dalton attacks from reaching the Town defense.
Captain Ryan White was as usual, excellent and as for Mo Sidat and the 6 goal Sam Pashley well they were magnificent. Tom Rogers in goal dealt with the windy conditions well.
The man of the match went to Josh Hartshone for an excellent defensive display.
Well-done Ossett Town for a great game of football.
Sunday, 4 October
County Cup Round 1
Pannal Sports 1 Ossett Town Juniors A 2
Player of the Match – Daniel Wright
Goalscorer – Joe Turfrey (2)
Pride of Yorkshire
The streets of Ossett were empty on Sunday as the U14s took on Harrogate and, following the B team’s morning game with Pannal Ash, the A team were in first round County Cup action against Pannal Sports. This appetising fixture was unexpectedly accompanied by some scrambled eggs but the main course was enough to satisfy Ossett in a hard fought encounter.
The early stages of the game were spent with both teams conceding possession to each other in midfield. Daniel Wright was the first Ossett player to show attacking intent with some nice play on the right of the box to win a corner. Pannal responded with some pressure of their own and forced some corners which Ossett were able to deal with. From one, Daniel Wright made a superb break which carried him the length of the pitch and forced a save from the keeper, which was only parried, and Joe Turfrey showed his striking instincts to poach a goal for 1-0 to Ossett. Further Ossett pressure saw Daniel Wright set Aaron Potter up but his low shot went wide and the best chance from a series of corners was Ben Fox’s header wide. Pannal were picking up on some scrappy Ossett play and equalised when a corner crept in high up at the near post. 1-1 and game on as Ossett’s defence was having to work hard to repel Pannal’s threat. Stand in keeper Dominic Sykes was handling the ball well and looking to distribute early to set Ossett going forward.
Joe Pygott and Ben Fox were linking up down the left trying to start Ossett moving. Pannal’s defence was proving a tough nut to crack and the midfield was having to battle to win the ball back. Charlie Mountain was working hard as usual and looking to move the ball forward whenever he could. Half time arrived with the scores level and without Ossett ever really hitting their stride.
The half time team talk seemed to have the desired effect as Ossett’s play was more considered and managed to find their men more regularly. Connor Daniel, Joe Turfrey and Daniel Wright were linking well trying to break down the Pannal defence. Joe Turfrey found some space on the left wing and floated in a great cross for Daniel Wright to meet at an awkward angle right underneath the crossbar. Unfortunately for Ossett, the ball looped the wrong side of the bar. Ossett were building momentum and this paid off when Connor Daniel made a strong interception in the middle of the park, laid it off to Joe Turfrey, whose control and early shot was spectacular, as the ball flew into the top corner for 2-1 Ossett. Ashley Young was continuing his good form this season with driving play in midfield, winning possession and helping set Ossett on the attack. This contributed to Ossett’s second half improvement with more chances coming their way. Joe Turfrey and Daniel Wright both had long range shots saved; whilst Joe Turfrey did well to round the keeper only for some great last ditch defending to clear his goal bound shot. The Ossett defence were handling Pannal’s attacks more comfortably, with Ben Fox making some great headers as the ball was finding its way down the left channel; James Ruane and Daniel Sheen working well together in the middle and Louis Spurr always looking to be positive in possession. Dominic Sykes was reading the play well and commanding his penalty box, with one excellent save when he palmed away a dangerous Pannal shot.
Ossett had further chances to stretch their lead with Daniel Wright heading onto the bar from a corner, Connor Daniel chipping wide and Joe Turfrey putting a lob over the bar. Daniel Wright was a menace to Pannal throughout the game, earning himself a deserved player of the match award – he fashioned himself another chance by showing his juggling skills in the box, unfortunately, his shot flew over. Pannal were still working hard and Ossett could never settle. Aaron Potter made several brave headers to repel Pannal attacks; Billy Cundall was battling away and closing down in the middle to deny any space. One break that did get through saw James Ruane in position to clear the ball off the line and out for a corner.
Another game that saw Ossett put under pressure as Pannal didn’t make it easy but Ossett had the clearest chances and could have made it more comfortable for themselves. Ossett are still searching for their top form but progressed into the next round with a deserved victory.
Sunday 4 October 2009
County Cup - Round 1
Pannal Ash 1 v 4 Ossett Town B
Scorers: Ryan White, Adam Horsfall, Mo Sidat and Jaz Ahmed
Man of the Match: Tom Rogers
"Ash to Ashes"
Ossett Town's U14s second string had a daunting first round draw away at Harrogate Division 1 leaders Pannal Ash. It was an early morning start for Town, that early one player was actually still been in bed when the game kicked off! Another player, lost on route, seemed to suggest that today was not going to go to plan.
However, Town's B team, who have grown into a very solid outfit in the last year had other ideas. With strength in depth, and an air of confidence that was tangible as soon as the game kicked off, Town took this game to the division one leaders and never looked back.
From the off Town attacked the Pannal defence and Ash seemed to be overwhelmed by the strength of the Ossett attack ably led by Ryan White and Sam Pashley up front and assisted by the dominance of Jack Lonsdale and Adam Horsfall who were controlling the midfield.
Both Pashley and White had chances in the first ten minutes but were thwarted by the giant of Pannal's keeper, who stood an incredible 6ft 2inch high in the opposition goal.
Whilst Pannal did like to play football and pass the ball about, they had to beat the resilient back four of Waqas Awad, Liam Preston, Josh Hartshorne and Martin Preston and this they found difficult with Town's back four mopping up any pressure. Even when they didn't, the commanding presence of goal keeper Tom Rogers, seemingly a mere dwarf compared to the keeper opposite, was on excellent form to soak up the pressure and confidently get to the ball whenever any pressure was close.
On 16 minutes White was put through following an excellent ball from midfield and with the 50:50 ball there to challenge against the keeper, challenge White did and the keeper brought him down - penalty......
Up stepped White and hit the penalty into the bottom corner to give Town a well deserved lead.
Town's tails were now up and forced further pressure on the Pannal defence. Within five minutes Horsfall was on the left of midfield and with an excellent piece of individual skill and precision he hit a quality angled shot into the net - 2 nil.
On 30 minutes Pashley was through on another one-to-one with the keeper and the two of them came clashing together, the clash of the keepers studs could clearly be heard on Pashley's shin pads as they both got to the ball. Fair and strong challenge, but things did not look good for Pashley and so it was with a severe cut on his shin which saw him retire for the rest of the game.
In the half-time team talk, Town were congratulated for their commanding first half performance but warned that Pannal were likely to come back fighting. The instruction was to go out and win this game early on to take the heat out of any Pannal come back.
This Town did - straight from the off they attacked and within nine minutes had killed this game. First, on 42 minutes, a superb solo run by Mo Sidat, beating at least five Pannal players, saw him put an unstoppable shot past the keeper from another tight angle - the best individual goal of the game.
Two minutes later, the superb and skilful Horsfall was clear in some space on the left. He looked up and whilst a year ago he would have had a shot at goal which would always have been a 1-10 chance, he instead skilfully picked out Jaz Ahmed at the far post who controlled the ball first time and again blasted in into the net - the best team goal of the game.
Town could now relax been four goals up against the division one leaders who looked shell-shocked. Town continued to play good football with Alex Hall, in the right midfield berth, coming more into this game.
Pannal did threaten, but continued to be thwarted by the Town defence, particularly with Liam Preston and Awad making some crucial tackles. Again, when it did break through Rogers was on hand to soak up the pressure.
Sidat was strong and composed and had a couple of one-on-one chances with the keeper, but the height and strength of the keeper thwarted him, and indeed on one occasion Town thought they had another serious injury when Sidat was felled - but with a little treatment he was soon back on his feet causing havoc amongst the Pannal ranks - they just didn't not what to do with him.
Town continued to press for more goals and Chris Scott, now upfront with Sidat, had a couple of chances but the giant of a keeper was on hand to stop Scott also getting on the score sheet.
With two minutes to go, Pannal did get a goal and whilst the head-on was clearly to a player off-side, the referee thought he was on-side and let the goal stand. Whilst a little disappointing to concede in such a way after a great performance, Town weren't at all bothered having taken a well deserved victory in the first round of the County Cup.
Rogers was man of the match for an excellent all-round performance and even had the manager, coaches and substitutes laughing when he was taunting the Pannal attack in the last ten minutes by refusing to pick the ball up until they made a move - a blatant, but legal, time-taking tactic to help the last few minutes tick away.
Well done guys - we could not have asked for more.
Sunday, 27 September
Meltham 2 Ossett Town Juniors A 3
Player of the Match – James Ruane
Goalscorers – Daniel Wright, Dominic Sykes and Connor Daniel
Photo Finish
Ossett travelled away to Meltham hoping to get their league campaign back on track. Add the wind to the sloping, hard pitch and Ossett had a tricky fixture to navigate.
Ossett made a bright start with Dominic Sykes having a shot deflected over from an early corner. Soon after Daniel Wright took a neat pass from Connor Daniel and shot hard and low into the corner for 1-0 Ossett. There was plenty of midfield possession for Ossett to enjoy at this stage with Billy Cundall winning plenty of ball. Meltham showed they would have a say when breaking and forcing Alex Campbell into a good save, with the ball bouncing up awkwardly off the hard surface. This was the cue for a period of Meltham pressure with Alex Campbell having to take several dangerous bouncing balls. The Ossett defence had to work hard to contain an energetic Meltham team and Daniel Sheen was prominent early with some decisive clearances. Good Ossett play in the Meltham box, led to Dominic Sykes making himself some space and thumping the ball home for 2-0. This provided the impetus for some further chances with Joe Turfrey firing over with a first time shot. Daniel Wright was working hard up front and providing a good target for team mates to link with by leading the line. Clever work on the right side of the box led to him being upended and a penalty awarded. After dusting himself down, Daniel stepped up to take the spot kick but slid it wide.
The reprieve inspired Meltham to step up their play and Alex Campbell was forced to save smartly from a long range drive. Sustained pressure culminated in a goalmouth scramble which Ossett did well to survive, Louis Spurr clearing the ball off the line to Ossett’s relief. Half time saw Ossett deservedly in the lead but wondering if they could have converted their dominance into more goals.
The second half proved to be a stern challenge for Ossett, as the wind and the pitch were used to their advantage by the home side. Daniel Sheen and James Ruane were tremendous in winning their aerial battles with their Meltham counterparts, ably assisted by Louis Spurr and Ben Fox, who were having to sweep up a lot of long balls which had drifted wide and then try to use the ball constructively when going forward. Ossett were looking to keep possession and Aaron Potter, now on the left, linked up well with Joe Turfrey down the channel. Daniel Wright laid off a good ball to Charlie Mountain on the right who advanced with purpose and fired in a cross shot which was narrowly wide.
The wind was driving Meltham’s long balls deep into Ossett territory and James Ruane won a number of important headers and strong physical challenges which saw him earn the player of the match award, just pipping his defensive colleagues. Another Meltham long ball flew over the defence and brought Alex Campbell into action again – a brave save and clearance where both the ball and Alex seemed to ricochet off the post. Ossett responded and a goalmouth scramble from a corner was eventually cleared by the home side. Meltham continued to press and won a penalty – successfully converting to pull a goal back. This had Meltham’s tails up and Ashley Young was leading the Ossett resistance in midfield, with Connor Daniel now working hard up front. Meltham pressure saw Louis Spurr clear another one from the line. Joe Pygott was working hard down the left and was involved in a good move which led to a dangerous Aaron Potter cross. Meltham were still looking for an equaliser and one duly came from a corner – the ball wasn’t cleared and bounced up awkwardly before being knocked over the line to make it 2-2. Alex Campbell had to make another save from a long range shot to keep Ossett level. Ossett were getting frustrated at this stage and had to gather themselves for one last effort. Inside the final couple of minutes, a sweeping move from left to right saw Connor Daniel in possession on the right hand side of the box. He found himself the space to fire in across the keeper for 3-2 Ossett. Ossett managed to see out the time for a hard-fought victory.
This wasn’t the prettiest of games, although the excitement had the spectators on edge until the very end, but a vital win for Ossett to kick start their campaign. The defensive solidity gave them a platform to edge it.
"SEVEN-UP FOR SAM IN RECORD-BREAKING WIN"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Huddersfield League Division 3
OSSETT TOWN 17 v 0 WEST END LIONS
Scorers: Sam Pashley(7), Mo Sidat (6), Adam Horsfall (2), Jamie Carney, Liam Preston
Man of the Match: Mo Sidat
27th September 2009
Report by Brian Hobson
Town’s B Team achieved their biggest-ever victory as they cruised to a win against an under-strength West End side.
With pleasant early-Autumn weather still producing the usual wind across Highfields, West End started with just 9 players, and Ossett wasted no time capitalising on it with 4 goals in the first 7 minutes. First Sam Pashley broke away down the right and finished well, then Mo Sidat latched onto a good Jaz Ahmed header to round the keeper and knock it in.
Mo Sidat got his second when he blasted in an excellent Adam Horsfall cross, then he turned provider after being released by Liam Preston’s pass when he unselfishly passed to Sam Pashley to score.
On 13 minutes it was 5, Sam Pashley breaking down the right and squaring to Mo Sidat who took an age before tapping it in, and although West End now had 10 players the goals kept coming. The back 4 of Tom Hobson, Waqas Awad and Martin & Liam Preston stood firm whenever West End threatened, and despite not having many saves to make keeper Tom Rogers kept his concentration and was out smartly several times to dispel any danger.
Adam Horsfall capped a fine display with probably the pick of the goals, chipping the keeper superbly from out on the left before the Sidat-Pashley double act took over again. First Sidat broke through the middle before passing to Pashley to score, then Pashley latched onto a fine Jaz Ahmed pass to get his 4th with a great finish to make it 8-0.
A triple substitution saw Josh Hartshorne, Alex Hall and Jamie Carney enter the fray, and Town reached double figures before half-time. Chris Scott made a good run down the left, and when his shot was well saved Mo Sidat was on hand to knock in the rebound, then Chris Scott played an excellent pass to Adam Horsfall who chipped the keeper again.
With injured skipper Ryan White wishing he was out there to add to his goal tally (but doing a good job as ball boy) Town started the 2nd half slowly as West End showed their fighting spirit, and took 15 minutes before adding to the scoresheet with a great Sam Pashley chip. 3 minutes later Jamie Carney at last got his goal, having hit the bar moments earlier, latching onto the ball and finishing well, and now that Town had the momentum back the goals flooded in again. Mo Sidat picked up a loose ball and rounded the keeper before finishing well to make it 13-0, then Liam Preston forced in an excellent Jamie Carney corner.
Sam Pashley hit the post before completing his double hat-trick, showing good strength in latching onto a good Jack Lonsdale pass and holding off the challenge. He then got his 7th, tapping in after a fine run down the left by Mo Sidat, and Sidat completed the rout in the last minute with a terrific individual goal.
Although there would have been more satisfaction beating a full-strength opposition, it wasn’t Ossett’s fault their opponents were a player short and all the Town players did their jobs perfectly. Good tackling, strong running and unselfishness in the final third were a feature of this performance – at times too unselfish as Town’s players seemed too embarrassed to score! There will undoubtedly be tougher challenges ahead, but as long as the players keep taking the lessons on board from every game and listening to the manager they have nothing to fear.
There were 14 contenders for man of the match, but Mo Sidat got the nod for a strong performance with 6 goals and just as importantly several assists.
Thursday, 24 September
Heavy Woollen FA Secker Cup Round 1
Ossett Town Juniors A 13 (thirteen) Dewsbury Rangers 2
Player of the Match – Connor Daniel
Goalscorers – Dominic Sykes (2), Daniel Wright (3), Joe Turfrey (2), Aaron Potter, Billy Cundall, James Ruane, Connor Daniel, Ben Fox and og
Total Secker
This first round cup tie at Ingfield provided the stage for an excellent overall performance from Ossett. Just like the lights, once the red button was pressed, they switched on and played some scintillating secker to move through to the next round.
The warning signs were there for Dewsbury after a couple of good Ossett moves, first down the left involving Ben Fox and Billy Cundall, then down the right with Louis Spurr, Charlie Mountain and Daniel Wright. Chances and near misses from Ashley Young and Dominic Sykes were the end results. Daniel Wright was proving dangerous and from his side-footed cross Dominic Sykes was able to slot in for 1-0. Ossett stepped it up and further chances for Connor Daniel, Daniel Wright, Daniel Sheen and Louis Spurr piled on the pressure. Another Ossett move led to Dewsbury conceding an own goal for 2-0. Dewsbury showed they still had an interest with a long range effort with a move straight from the restart. Goalkeeper Campbell had no chance due to the quality of the shot.
Joe Turfrey was on to make his first Ossett appearance of the season after injury and was soon getting his left foot into gear. Hitting the post from range showed he meant business. Dewsbury had been buoyed by their goal and were coming more into the game, although the defence of Louis Spurr, James Ruane, Daniel Sheen and Ben Fox were dealing well with any threats. Ossett’s dominance was confirmed in a purple patch before half time, with Connor Daniel prominent in a buzzing Ossett midfield. He and Ashley Young were winning the ball and using Charlie Mountain and Billy Cundall, out wide, to keep the ball moving and drag the Dewsbury defence out of position. Connor Daniel was able to nick the ball off Dewsbury and put Daniel Wright in who slid the ball past the advancing keeper for 3-1. He then nodded in a close range header for 4-1, before Joe Turfrey capped his comeback with a long range pearler for 5-1. Then it was time for Joe to show his subtlety for a chip to make it 6-1. That was half time.
The second half started as the first ended with Ossett on the attack. Joe Turfrey had a nice turn and shot to keep the Dewsbury keeper alert. Aaron Potter was putting in some hard graft on the left flank and stepped into corner taking duty with another master class. This was the one marked ‘tight run up on a big pitch’. Confounding the aficionados in the crowd it crept in at the near post for 7-1. Daniel Wright then crowned his hat trick with a low effort into the corner from the edge of the box, 8-1. Ossett were piling on the pressure again and the Dewsbury defence and keeper were involved in some close range saves and clearances. Connor Daniel showed why he was given the player of the match with a mazy run through the defence which only some last ditch defending could stop.
At the other end, birthday boy Alex Campbell was alert when needed to gather well under pressure. Joe Pygott was on for his Ossett debut and made some strong interceptions and clearances, a good debut, especially as it was against his former team. Dewsbury were able to break when an Ossett attack broke down and their striker ran clear to lift the ball above the advancing keeper for another well taken goal – 8-2. Ossett responded well with Billy Cundall, now in the middle, controlling the ball on the edge of the box to smash the ball high into the net – 9-2. It was soon 10 with James Ruane nodding in a close range header from a corner. Connor Daniel capped his player of the match with another good run which finished off with a well taken goal for number 11. Dominic Sykes showed his striking instincts with number 12 before Ben Fox, playing wide right, followed up to slot in a rebound for 13-2.
That was it. Some shecsy secker. Ossett will take a lot of confidence from the style of their play as well as the result. This should stand them in good stead for their league campaign.
Sunday 20 September 2009
"Hat Trick Treble as Town Run Riot"
Norristhorpe 2 v 13 Ossett Town B
Scorers: Mo Sidat (4), Ryan White (4), Sam Pashley (3), Jaz Ahmed, Own Goal
Man of the Match: Ryan White
Report by Brian Hobson
3 players helped themselves to hat-tricks as Town overpowered Norristhorpe for an outstanding win.
Ossett started kicking downhill into the warm sun, and wasted no time capitalising on the slope, taking a 2nd minute lead when Jack Lonsdale won the ball in midfield and released Ryan White who kept his composure to slot it home.
5 minutes later it was all square when Ossett failed to attack the ball from a good corner, but on 10 minutes Town regained the lead from a corner of their own, Sam Pashley nodding in the rebound after Waqas Awad’s header was saved. 7 minutes later another Pashley header made it 3-1, back-heading in from Jack Lonsdale’s cross, and Town then settled down to control the game. With Mo Sidat and Jack Lonsdale winning most of the tackles in the middle, Town were breaking with purpose and Sam Pashley, Ryan White and Mo Sidat all had shots well saved.
At the back Josh Hartshorne, Waqas Awad, Martin Preston and Liam Preston all put strong tackles in to repel any threat, and Town’s defensive solidity continued when their only substitute Tom Hobson come on. It was no surprise when Ossett extended their lead before the break through a brilliant individual goal from Mo Sidat, dancing past 3 challenges and beating the keeper with a stepover before eventually putting it away.
With the slope in their favour Norristhorpe started the 2nd half well, and keeper Tom Rogers was called on to make a couple of important saves. It was good to see him commanding his penalty area so well today, regularly calling out instructions to his team-mates. Ossett weathered the early storm and made it 5-1 on 44 minutes; Sam Pashley crossed from the right and although Ryan White’s shot was well saved Jaz Ahmed knocked in the rebound.
Norristhorpe reduced the deficit 2 minutes later with a hotly disputed penalty, but that only served to spur Town on and they went on to dominate the remainder of the match with Mo Sidat prominent. First he won the ball and released Ryan White to finish well, then the pair linked up well again when White slotted home after a great Sidat run and cross to make it 7-2.
Sidat scored again himself when he won a strong tackle and powered in a shot, and then the move of the match between Alex Hall and Sidat led to Ryan White having a shot cleared off the line after a wonderful ball in from Hall.
Ossett were now completely on top and relishing the uphill challenge, and added 5 more in the last 9 minutes. The first was an own goal from a corner, then Ryan White chased and retrieved a lost cause and crossed for Sam Pashley to complete his hat-trick. White then got his 4th with a fine 20 metre shot, before Mo Sidat secured his hat-trick with a great low shot into the corner. There was still time for Sidat to get a 4th when he charged down a clearance, rounded the keeper and tucked it in.
This was an excellent performance from Town against a team who took 4 points off them last season. There were times when the defence had to fight really hard to keep Norristhorpe at bay, and they did that manfully. The midfield all worked hard and supplied the ammunition for the goalscorers, who were simply too strong for their opponents. As long as they keep this form going, playing for each other and not always going for personal glory, results will continue to be positive.
The whole team were contenders for man of the match, but Ryan White took the honours for a powerful display up front.
Sunday, 13 September – Match Report
Dalton Dynamos 4 Ossett Town Juniors A 3
Player of the Match – Dominic Sykes
Goalscorers – Charlie Mountain, Dominic Sykes and Aaron Potter
Birdhouse in Your Soul
Not to put too fine a point on it, the u14s A team started the new season with a tough away trip to Dalton. The blue canary in the outlet by the light switch, who watches over you, noticed the sky was a bit grey and the breeze was making the bee in your bonnet rattle around a bit.
Ossett started brightly with Daniel Wright causing some early problems for the Dalton defence, linking up well with Dominic Sykes. Aaron Potter, in an unfamiliar left midfield position, worked well down the flank with Ben Fox, although Dalton were able to snuff out any threats. Dalton started to generate more energy and Daniel Sheen had to be decisive with some important headers.
Dalton began to dominate with their strength and speed leaving Ossett flat, a good move ended with a free header in the six yard box giving keeper Alex Campbell no chance. One nil Dalton. Ossett’s response was led by Dominic Sykes, who showed some excellent strength and control, to probe the Dalton defence. Aaron Potter fired in a dangerous corner but Dalton were able to clear. Ossett’s defence was matching up to the physical challenge of the Dalton attackers, with Louis Spurr and James Ruane prominent. Dalton had the edge and scored two more – an unchallenged shot in the box and a far post header – though Ossett will have been disappointed with this spell of play. They responded with some pressure and from a wide free kick by Daniel Wright the keeper parried, and Ossett were quicker to react, Charlie Mountain slotting just before half time to pull one back. Half time 3-1 to Dalton.
This was to prove a catalyst for an improved second half performance from Ossett. The team seemed more settled, as if needing the first 35 minutes to get used to playing together again. The midfield matched up their opponents better, with Billy Cundall moved back in the centre making some strong interceptions. Connor Daniel and Ashley Young featured prominently as Ossett tried to turn the game. By now Daniel Wright was plowing a lone furrow up front – doing well and keeping going all game. Ben Fox’s thigh strain meant he didn’t appear for the second half and Aaron Potter had to drop into left back – and didn’t shrink from the task.
Dalton were still dangerous and free kicks were an important element of the match. An excellent save by Alex Campbell kept out a direct shot to Ossett’s relief. Dominic Sykes gave Ossett hope with a well taken cross shot to pull Ossett back to 3-2. This helped clinch the player of the match and rounded off an all round strong game for Dominic.
Dalton confirmed their superiority with a great control and shot to bury their fourth into the bottom corner. 4-2 Dalton. Ossett heads didn’t go down as they were still determined to get something from this game. Some excellent corners from Aaron Potter were a likely source; from one James Ruane had a shot saved by the keeper. With time running out, Ossett were awarded a free kick some 30-35 yards out. Aaron Potter had been looking good taking pot-shots in training on Friday and he took a long iron out the bag to ping one in the top corner! Ossett were back to one goal down. There was only enough time for the kick off to take place, so it finished 4-3 to Dalton.
A deserved victory for the Dynamos. But, I have a secret to tell, from my electrical well, it’s a simple message and I’m leaving out the whistles and bells, so the room must listen to me filibuster vigilantly. Ossett will improve for this game and know the challenge that awaits this season. A tough start, no available subs second half reduced options, but the whole team battled through and deserve praise for not letting their heads drop.
Sunday 13th September 2009
‘Ossett Tame Lions In Thriller’
Ossett Town Under 14’s ‘B’ Team V Yorkshire Lions
Scorers: Ryan White, Sam Pashley 2, Mo Sidat
Man Of The Match: Sam Pashley
Match Reporter: Bob Dann
Ossett Town kicked off the new season at home against Yorkshire Lions, who they knew from last season, could be very difficult opponents.
Ossett started with a very strong line up. Captain Ryan White partnering up front with the new signing Sam Pashley. Chris Scott and Adam Horsfall were playing on either wing. The midfield saw Jack Lonsdale alongside the other new signing, Mo Sidat. The defensive lineup saw Liam Preston, Waqas Awad, Josh Hartshorne and Martin Preston with Tom Rogers in goal.
From the whistle Ossett took the game to the Lions, Ryan White going close on a couple of occasions.
The two wingers were proving to be a real handful with Chris Scott showing some nice touches.
As we know from last season the Lions have a strong side and on the rare occasions that they got into the Town box Waqas Awad proved too strong.
This was to be the pattern for most of the half with Ossett having the bulk of the possession and creating all the chances but unable to score the first goal. The Lions would counter attack and force some great tackles from Jack Lonsdale and Mo Sidat in midfield and some excellent defending from the back line.
It was surely only a matter of time before Ossett scored and sure enough on 22 minutes Ryan White popped up from a rebound off a Lions player to slot the ball home.
The Lions counter attacked again only to find Waqas Awad and Josh Hartshorne in superb form.
Again Chris Scott on the left wing produced another superb run only this time to put Sam Pashley through to score a fine goal.
As the half time whistle approached there was time for Ossett to make it three with a great corner from the superb Chris Scott finding Mo Sidat to make the half time score
3-0.
That was it, job done! Or so it would appear, but the visitors had other ideas.
From the kick off the Lions took the game to Ossett and within ten minutes had pulled two goals back with the home team looking to be in real trouble of conceding an equalizer.
But this is not the Ossett Town way!
Captain Ryan White now partnering Jamie Carney up front was able to find room and Ryan saw a shot rebound off the bar and Jamie had two chances go just wide.
The game was now going from end-to-end and both teams were having chances. Both sets of fans were spellbound, as Jaz Ahmed went close and all the Town players were putting their bodies on the line to prevent the equalizer.
With ten minutes to go the newly substituted Sam Pashley took matters into his own hands, and ran most of the pitch to score Town’s fourth.
The game ended with both teams still looking to score but the whistle blew with Ossett Town finishing the worthy winners 4-2.
This was a great start to the season as the Lions finished one place above Ossett in last season’s league table.
It showed to everybody watching that the side can not only score goals but can also defend well and will not give in even under tremendous pressure.
The man of the match went to Sam Pashley for a superb performance and two excellent goals.
The whole team played well especially Ryan White for a great captains performance, Chris Scott on the left wing, Mo Sidat and Jack Lonsdale in midfield for a very strong and bruising encounters, Waqas Awad in defense who was excellent and finally Tom Rogers in goal who pulled off some great saves especially in the second half when it could have gone either way.
A great team performance and a fantastic advertisement for junior football.
Well-done Ossett Town.
Thursday 10th September 2009
"CRUISE IN CROFTON FOR CLASSY TOWN"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Friendly Match
CROFTON 2 OSSETT TOWN B 9
Scorers: Sam Pashley (4), Mo Sidat (2), Ryan White, Jamie Carney, Alex Hall
Man of the Match: Josh Hartshorne
Report by Brian Hobson
Ossett cruised to an emphatic victory, playing some excellent football against a Crofton side who never gave up.
Town were quickly on top, and took a 2nd minute lead when Ryan White broke down the right. His shot was well saved, but Sam Pashley fired in the rebound. 2 minutes later it was déjà vu as Pashley again forced it in, this time after Adam Horsfall’s shot was saved following a good Ryan White pass.
Crofton pulled one back when a right wing cross went in off the unfortunate Alex Hall, but Ossett stepped up a gear and 2 quick goals put them in control. First Ryan White latched onto a Sam Pashley header to slot home, then Pashley headed down a Jack Lonsdale pass before completing his hat-trick.
With Town looking solid at the back and winning most of the midfield battles, the outcome of the game was secured by 2 more goals just before half-time. Mo Sidat intercepted a goal kick to score, then he chested a pass into the path of Jamie Carney who got on the scoresheet as well.
Town continued to play some glorious one-touch passing football in the 2nd half, despite several substitutions and players in unfamiliar positions as the whole squad was given a good workout. They extended their lead on 40 minutes with a brilliant individual Sam Pashley goal, winning a tackle well inside his own half and evading several tackles down the right wing before scoring. 7 minutes later Alex Hall fed Mo Sidat who finished well to make it 8-1, then Hall himself got a rare goal, firing home after a great move involving Will Dann, Mo Sidat and Jamie Carney.
Crofton kept going, and got what turned out to be the final goal when keeper Tom Rogers could only help a difficult cross into his own net. Ossett resisted the temptation to go all out for more goals, concentrating instead on passing the ball around and playing good free-flowing stuff. They even tried to get an even rarer goal for Tom Hobson, but he fired just wide and was denied a last-kick opening by an untimely final whistle.
This was good preparation for the real stuff which starts on Sunday. Everybody played for the team rather than for themselves, and there are real grounds for optimism if that can be maintained all year. Man of the match went to Josh Hartshorne for some good defending and some marauding runs down the right.
Sunday 6th September 2007
“DALTON TOO STRONG FOR BRAVE OSSETT”
Ossett Town under 14’S B team
Friendly match
DALTON DYNAMOS 7 (5) v OSSETT TOWN B 2 (1)
Scorers: Jack Lonsdale, Mo Sidat
Players of the match; Adam Horsfall, Liam Preston
Reporter Bob Dann
An early Sunday morning kick off saw Ossett Town take on division one side Dalton Dynamos in what was to prove to be a very challenging game.
Straight from the kick off Dalton took the game to Ossett and Tom Rogers in goal was having to pull off some great saves to stop the home team from scoring.
Town’s midfield of Sam Pashley, Chris Scott, Jaz Ahmed and Adam Horsfall were having to battle hard to try and make ground against some “classy” Dalton players.
But soon Dalton took the lead and this was to be the pattern for the first half, with Town putting together some great play only for the Dalton defence to turn these moves into a counter attacks and their “pacey” left winger to find space and to score.
As is the Ossett Town way they did not let their heads drop, and some great play particularly from Adam Horsfall lead to some very good attacks and forced some great saves from there keeper.
One such attack saw Town awarded a free kick, from the kick taken by captain Ryan White a spilled ball saw Jack Lonsdale react the quickest to make the half time score 5-1 in favour of the home team.
The second half saw a rejuvenated Town take the game to Dalton. Mo Sidat and Liam Preston were proving to be a real handful for the home sides defence. Against the run of play Dalton scored the next two goals to make it 7-1.
Again Ossett kept their composure and kept playing. The excellent Mo Sidat was awarded a penalty when he was brought down in the box and scored the ensuing spot kick to make the final score 7-2.
This was a very good division one side and the 3 class players they had took their chances well to make it a flattering score line.
Ossett Town had plenty of chances but were foiled by a well-organized and strong defence. There were some great performances by Adam Horsfall and Liam Preston who were awarded the joint players of the match.
Tom Rogers had a good game in goal and Chris Scott had a great game on the left.
The new signings of Sam Pashley and Mo Sidat have settled in well and will give the division 3 opponents plenty of problems.
All the team battled hard for the entirety of the match and deserve credit for never giving in as it could have turned into a bigger score line for the home team.
You have to play as a team for the entire match, as at times this was missing, especially in attack when some thoughtful passing could have given better opportunities for your teammates.
You also have to be first to the ball rather than allowing the opposition to get the ball and then deciding what to do, which against first division opposition proved costly.
Bring on Yorkshire Lions we will show them just how much Ossett Town have improved since last season.
2nd September 2009
"PLENTY OF POSITIVES IN DEFEAT FOR TOWN"
Ossett Town Under 14’s B Team
Friendly Match
OSSETT TOWN B 3 HARTSHEAD A 7
Scorers: Mo Sidat (2), Sam Pashley
Player of the Match: Martin Preston
Report by Brian Hobson
Town produced an excellent display against a team 2 divisions higher than them, but the visitors’ extra bit a quality resulted in a scoreline which did not do justice to the performance.
On a rainy, cold & gloomy evening Town started well and took the game to Hartshead, creating several chances only to be thwarted by a combination of good goalkeeping, bad luck and below-par finishing. The pattern of the game was established, however, on 7 minutes when, from their first attack, Hartshead scored a great long range goal which keeper Tom Rogers had no chance of reaching in the full-sized goals.
The next 15 minutes was all Ossett, excellent passing and good movement creating several chances only to find the opposing keeper in inspired form. Hartshead showed their quality by soaking up the pressure and then scoring 3 goals in 5 minutes. Ossett got a goal back 6 minutes before the break, Mo Sidat playing a 1-2 with Liam Preston before firing under the keeper, but Hartshead were allowed to restore their 4 goal lead before half-time despite what appeared to be a clear foul on a Town defender.
With the team constantly changing in the second half as all the squad was utilised, Town struggled to impose themselves on the game. 10 minutes after the break it was 1-6, before a great individual goal by Mo Sidat made it 2-6 on 58 minutes. Hartshead went straight down the other end to make it 2-7 with another long-range effort, but Ossett restored more pride 2 minutes from time with a terrific run down the right and shot by Sam Pashley.
The scoreline doesn’t do Town’s performance justice, and if they can carry this form into the league season they will do well. They won’t come up against many players with the ability some of Hartshead’s had, and they showed strength, guts and a desire to pass the ball around that provided plenty of encouragement for the coming season.
Sunday 23rd August 2009:
Ossett Town A/B 2 v 5 Stocksbridge Steels
Scorer: Ryan White (2)
Player of the Match: Alex Campbell "Town show real Steel to tame Stocksbridge"
Match Reporter: James Rogers
This pre-season game at Ingfield was a real thriller with Town utilising its full available squad of 23 players in a ninety minute game consisting of three periods of 30 minutes.
The B team had played Stocksbridge in a similar pre-season game last year and were on the wrong end of a 16 v 0 defeat. Stocksbridge went on to win division 1 of the Sheffield junior league last year, so another testing pre-season friendly was in prospect, and it didn't disappoint.
First Period - 0 to 30 minutes
Team: Campbell, Awad, M Preston, Hall, Carney, Scott, Horsfall, L Preston, Pashley, Sidat, White
The first eleven to take the pitch were principally B team players with the support of A team goal keeper Alex Campbell standing in for the injured Tom Rogers.
Stocksbridge started the game the stronger of the two teams but with the back two of Waqas Awad and Martin Preston in superb form, supported by the reliable Campbell, Stocksbridge couldn't quite get that elusive first goal. Town did get a couple of breaks in the first ten minutes through the excellent work of Liam Preston and Sam Pashley in central midfield who created some fantastic through balls for Ryan White and new signing Mo Sidat to chase. It was from two of these clinical passes that put White through and Town looked certain to score, although the keeper saved well with one shot and the other was a little too weak to trouble the Steels keeper.
At the other end Stocksbridge were once again attacking and from a long range shot Campbell pulled off a world class save to tip the ball over the bar - this was not to be the last time that Campbell would pull something out of the top drawer.
Stocksbridge pressure was such that it was inevitable that they were going to score and this they did on 12 minutes following good work from their big on-trial striker who burst through the Town defence to create the opening.
Town continued to battle and with Carney making some good tackles and Pashley and Horsfall tracking back to help out the defence, Town were frustrating the Stocksbridge attack.
Town couldn't hold out much longer though with the strength of the Stocksbridge attack and two more goals were scored in relatively quick succession to make the score in this period 0 v 3 to Stocksbridge.
Martin Preston was awesome at the back, and with the running of Horsfall and Pashley in particular, and the strong physical presence of White and Sidat, Town put in a very commendable first 30 minutes performance.
The second period saw a complete change in the Town line-up, except of course for keeper Campbell, and in the Stocksbridge line-up similar changes were made with four substitutions, including their big attacker who had caused all sorts of problems in the first period.
The Town team, principally made of A team players started off really strong, although a quick substitution had to be made in the first minute after James Ruane took a bad knock to the knee. Ashley Young was moved to cover the centre back position vacated by Ruane and Dominic Sykes was brought on and occupied the striker position alongside Danny Wright.
This proved to be a very effective substitution as Young was outstanding at the back mopping up most serious threats with ease and Sykes was a revelation upfront, working well with Danny Wright and causing the Stocksbridge defence all sorts of problems.
Although Wright had a couple of chances, he just couldn't find the right angle to shoot and put the keeper under pressure.
Despite Town been the better team for the most part of this period, Stocksbridge did get a further goal to win this period 1 v 0.
Third Period - 60 to 75 minutes
Team: Campbell, Sheen, Young, Wright, Sykes, Awad, M Preston, L Preston, Pashley, Sidat, White
The next 15 minutes saw what was arguably the strongest Town eleven of the day. They took the game to Stocksbridge and the defence of Awad, Young, Sheen and M Preston completely snuffed out the Stocksbridge attack, so much so that in this period Campbell hardly touched the ball.
At the other end it was the complete opposite. The striking duo of White and Wright were simply awesome and between them had a good six chances at goal. Two of these went in. The first was a clinical pass from Wright to White who calmly knocked the ball past the keeper. The second came from midfield - Liam Preston to Sidat, Sidat to White, ball in the back of the net.
A great fifteen minutes which saw Town win this period 2 v 0.
Fourth Period - 75 to 90 minutes
Team: Campbell, Spurr, Hobson, Cundall, Ahmed, Potter, Mountain, Horsfall, Scott, Carney, Hall Sub: Young
The last fifteen minutes saw a complete change again with 10 substitutions. Despite the disruption and changes, the players taking to the pitch did not disappoint and carried on the excellent form of the preceding 15 minutes.
Stocksbridge did pressurise but two unbelieveable (world class!) saves from Campbell (again!) kept the scoreline as it was.
Town though they couldn’t get any more goals, and Stocksbridge got another goal following a bit of luck when the ball rolled of a Town defender, Town finished the game the stronger of the two teams.
Period score Stocksbridge 1 v 0 Ossett Town
End of game score - Ossett Town 2 v 5 Stocksbridge Steels
Well done today guys - a great game for a pre-season friendly and thanks to all of the parents for the food they brought for after the game.
