The official online journal of Bromley Green FC

Sunday night snippets...

A weekend of mixed fortunes ended with the Under 15s winning 3-2 at home to Ashford Colts thanks to scores from George Wall (2) and Dan Churchley. In a match played in driving snow, the lads were 3-0 ahead and coasting but the visitors put up a brave show and forced a close finale (Steve Mailey's report is on the Youth link).  Earlier the firsts were like the weather, the ref and the pitch - poor! Bethersden seemed sharper and full of running off the ball as we let a 4-2 lead slip and finished 5-4 losers. Congratulations to the villagers on a well-earned win but for the Green this simply is not good enough. Craig Southen 2, Glenn Mackett and Marcus Hodges netted for the Green who can now, as they say, 'concentrate on the cups'.  First up are old rivals Kennington who visit us next Sunday in the semi final of the Bodkin Cup (10.30am). Up at The Ridge, Phil Wedge's charges are still eyeing up a promotion spot after a 5-1 defeat of The Albion. A solid all-round team performance with Richard Floyd and Jason Thomas impressing. Netting for the Green, who have no fixture next Sunday, were Ashley Webster 2, Matt Wedge 2, and Ricky Milton from the penalty spot.

SATURDAY NIGHT UPDATE...

Edgy Green take early lead but second half collapse is costly

Bromley Green 1 Crockenhill 3

A coolly taken goal by Craig Southen in the first half lured the Green into thinking next to bottom Crocks were there for the taking but it was to all go wrong after the turn round. Two fine stops by Joseph McQuillan kept the home team in front but one always felt the next goal was going to be decisive. And so it was with the visitors not only levelling but going on to enjoy large periods of possession that culminated with two more goals to seal an unexpected win.  Despite the setback, there were positives with the impromptu centre back pairing of Terry Perk and Ryan Smith doing enough to suggest that with regular games together a sound understanding could be formed. As always Mackett, Southen and Reed played with plenty of passion but with a pile of injuries and no help from above it proved to be yet another day to forget. Compounding the misery, Milton Athletic bagged three points with a 2-0 success against Coney Hall. Next week the side travels to meet Fleet Leisure.

Steve Wilson reports on the Reserves 2-0 win at Bearsted

Hi Dave
We won 2-0 today; goalscorers were anthony davies and luke stanley;
we started brightly and continued the same way throughout the game,
with Bearsted's keeper playing a blinder. The whole team played really well
and we should have won 4 or 5 nil but 2 was enough and 3 pts this time
of the season was crucial. Considering Bearsted played 3 or 4 first teamers
the performance was superb. Let's hope we play like that on Tuesday night
c u soon cheers

Steve

Midweek update

It’s crunch time for Green teams



The next month is packed with crucial fixtures as the Green’s senior sides battle for priceless points for differing reasons. At the Swan Ground on Saturday, the firsts need to rise above all their injury and suspension miseries against second from bottom Crockenhill and bag the three points that will virtually ensure safety. Hopefully there will be a good turn-out to give the lads a boost as we approach the finale of a trying campaign; and who knows, perhaps we will enjoy that little bit of luck that has eluded us all season. Kick off is at 2.45pm. Also searching a maximum are the seconds who have a difficult match at Bearsted as they aim to push towards the title. Tuesday night (6.30pm) could well be a defining time as our old friends from New Romney visit for another virtual six-pointer and, with the Uni boys having two vacant weeks, there is a real opportunity to close the gap at the top.

In the Premier Division, Dave Andrews knows his Sunday firsts will need to be at their best to thwart visiting Bethersden with the villagers buoyed by a crushing of title favourites Ashford Cavaliers in last week’s Premier Cup final at Reachfields. Meanwhile, the Sunday Reserves have an away local derby with The Albion. Both games kick off at 10.30am.

The Under 15s hope to return to action with a home tussle against Ashford Colts (2.00pm) as they endeavour to consolidate their more than respectable placing in the East Kent Youth League table.

Saturday night...

Bastard computer crashed again after spending ages compiling a round-up that included up to date tables... losing the will to live!  Can't redo it all again...

Basically, Uni Res beat Borden Res 1-0 to go 13 points clear but we have 5 games in hand and have dropped less points than any of our main rivals in the Eastern Reserves Division

Further news as and when it arrives or the computer decides to oblige

Saturday 10am update

Reserves game at New Romney is OFF

Today's crucial Kent County League Reserves Division East fixture between New Romney Reserves and Bromley Green Reserves has been called off with the Blues pitch deemed too wet. Perhaps we are in for yet another classic evening 'decider' to mirror so many meetings in the past between the two clubs both at first and second team level.

(29 March 2008) Saturday morning 9am update

Bromley Green-v-Fleet Leisure is OFF

Pitch waterlogged

Other news as and when it arrives...

Friday night news...

From Steve Mailey

Under 15 game this Sunday is off

No further details, but the boys home clash with table-topping Thanet Colts has been called OFF

Sunday night snippets…

The Green’s home Bodkin semi final with Kennington was called off due to a waterlogged pitch but the reserves made the short trip to The Ridge to meet Churchills in what could prove to be a crucial league fixture.

Phil Wedge reports to The Green Lane

MATCH ABANDONED IN CONTROVERSY

In a game in which phil wedge’s boys went looking to avenge their semi final elimination, the green took the game by the horns from the start and were all over the opposition, with gary mickelborough looking livley up front and james major and lee gilbert looking solid at the back .We were in complete control till a mistake by ricky milto allowed churchills to sneak ahead via a deflected shot. The greens response was to up the tempo of the game which payed dividends 15minutes later with the ever threatening mickelborough slotting home, bouyed by this the lads moved up another gear and went close on several more occasions. But with only 5 minutes of the 1st half left the green were awarded a penalty after one of the churchills players wanted to swap shirts early with robbie bowyer. What resulted from that can only be described as A DISGRACE TO FOOTBALL. The home team manager confronting the referee as well as several of the home team players, the referee at the request of the home team manager abandoned the game. Team s,dadd ,r,milton ,j.major. t,poyner, l,gilbert, d,hagger , r,bowyer, j,dobbin, j,thomas, m,wedge, g,m,boro ,subs not used l, milton, r,floyd ,j,barling, j,coleman.

PHIL.

Green so near but season of woe continues

Staplehurst 3 Bromley Green 2

After trailing 1-0 at the interval and looking anything but organised during the first period, the Green proceeded to dominate for long spells with the wind in their favour and seemed set to lift the cup when taking a 2-1 lead with just nine minutes remaining.  However, these are not normal times for the club and somehow the villagers capitalised on their ball over top tactics to snatch a dramatic victory. With a host of players unavailable through ineligibility and injury, it was a strange line-up that took the field, but nevertheless each player did their best on a poor pitch. Stuart Daniel notched both the Green goals but I think we have all accepted the gods are against us at the moment.  It doesn’t seem a particularly ‘funny old game’; but that’s football and it will change.

I would like to thank all those who braved the bitterly cold elements to support the club on Good Friday. The final had a miserable ending but how pleasing to see so many present and past Bromley Green supporters there. Let’s hope next year we can return and put things right!

Dave Homewood (Patron)

Peter Intrieri reflects on another trying weekend

What was believed to be a crucial weekend for the Green, Both Ciaran and Peter felt very confident of a positive outcome of the 2 games. A very poor display on Friday in The Weald Of Kent was just not acceptable against a very ordinary basic opposition.

Both Managers were surprised to see many faces that had not been around the last few weeks through injury. This led us to believe that we had a strong squad which gave us many selection headaches as all players said they were fit. Hindsight is a very powerful thing to have in your locker, as quite clearly the squad was not fully fit so selection would have been different.

Not to be deterred the Green after a poor display found themselves leading 2-1 with only 7 minutes left but very basic errors let the lively P.West run rings round our defence with the Green going down 3-2.

A day to forget as Staplehurst And Monarchs sit at the bottom of Div 1 East.

The following day the Green travelled to Sheerness in horrendously cold windy conditions, which again left no place for football. To be let down by half of the final team from the previous day totally bemused Ciaran and I. 19 players at 9.00am to be left with just 10 at midday beggars belief but this is what has happened since November.

Playing against the wind in the first half and conceding early made it an uphill battle from the off, but the green should have gone in at least 3-1 up with Loyal club Captain Glenn Mackett doing his utmost for a victory . Nevertheless only down 1-0 the lads came in positive that the second half would reap us some reward.  How untrue as once again as basic errors and fatigue left us with nothing and losing 3-0.

Without the reserve game being called off it would have been interesting as both Managers would of had to play.

Team: Craig Smith, Dan Cheeseman, Ryan Smith, Anthony Davies, Terry Perk, Shaun Gibbs, Glenn Mackett, Lee Milton, Kevin Barret, Gary Mickelbrough, Ashley Webster. Subs all used Joe Mcquillan Gary Gibbs 

Our thanks to Gary Gibbs Senior for his support for this game and future games. 

P Intrieri (Co-Manager)

Meanwhile Cookie and Kingers are doing well at Hythe who recorded a win at Croydon to keep in the Kent League title race while Marcus Hodges, who opened the scoring against Tunbridge Wells in a 3-1 victory, is making a huge impact at Faversham.

Next Saturday the Green welcome Fleet Leisure to the Swan Ground while the seconds have a top of the table clash with old friends New Romney Reserves down the Avenue.

Saturday 1pm update

ALL HOME GAMES OFF THIS WEEKEND

Saturday 6am update

Overnight rain causes fixtures doubt

The overnight rain means the home games with Kennington this Saturday and Sunday are doubtful. An inspection is being made this morning by Dave Andrews and if and when The Green Lane has any information, we will publish details. Supporters planning to watch at the Swan Ground or travel to Sheerness East to watch the first team are advised to check with the respective team manager before setting out. The Reserves game at The Ridge scheduled for Sunday must also be rated very doubtful. Again contact Phil Wedge the manager or if we have any news we will publish it.

Weald Final reflection to follow...

Good Friday update...

Good luck Green

The Green make the short trip to Tenterden this afternoon for the Weald of Kent Charity Final where the opposition are Staplehurst. No team details are available for either side but let's hope the game is entertaining and we come out on top. Kick off is at 3.15pm.  Supporters wanting a lift should be at The Albert pub at the top of the town by 1.30pm.

Tomorrow the firsts are at Sheerness East while the seconds entertain Kennington Reserves

There are no Under 15 fixtures over the Easter period

(16 March 2008) Sunday night update...

Dave Homewood reports from a muddy Pound Lees after a great weekend for the Green

Green safely through to Charity last four

McQuillan and Mickelborough steal the show

Hamstreet 0 Bromley Green 3

After an unconvincing opening twenty minutes, during which the Street should have scored on at least three occasions, the Green gradually assumed control of this Ashford Charity tie played on a quagmire of a pitch. Although striker Tommy Lockett rapped a post, the Green were rarely a threat during the opening exchanges while at the other end dangerous ex-Green forward Tom Wilmshurst failed to take advantage of gilt-edged chances. With little to enthuse over for the visitors and the Street sensing a major upset, the match suddenly turned on a moment of extravagant brilliance by the in-form Gary Mickelborough, whose thunderbolt from outside the box left both sides stunned. It was indeed the performances of Mickelborough and keeper Joseph McQuillan, who pulled off two terrific saves in the mud, that illustrated why the Green camp remains positive over the rebuilding that has been forced upon them.  The slender lead at half time was perhaps more than the Green deserved but when Mickelborough broke through again to slot home early in the second period the contest was effectively over. Plenty of endeavour from both sides, with Valler and Poyner putting in useful displays at the back for the Green and Pettit and Ketley steady for the home side, made for an entertaining game despite the conditions and, after two further superb saves by McQuillan, there was time for one more moment of sublime skill.  Picking the ball up wide on the left, substitute Terry Perk cut in and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner. The three-goal margin was harsh on the Street but the Green, with Ealham and Mackett as ever committed to the cause, issued a lesson on taking chances whilst showing great resilience in keeping a blank sheet.  The win sets up a mouthwatering home tie with locals Albion in the semi finals.  Next Sunday Dave Andrews hopes to have Marcus Hodges, absent today through family illness, leading the line against Kennington in the Bodkin Cup semi final at the Swan Ground.

Green: Joseph McQuillan; Chris Petts, Sean Skillett, Danny Valler, Tom Poyner, Gary Mickelborough, Glen Mackett, Lee Ealham, Lee Milton, Tommy Lockett, Kevin Barrett. Subs: Matt Wedge, Ryan Holloway, Terry Perk

Today’s home reserve game with Albion was called off after an 8am pitch inspection. Meanwhile Market won 2-1 against Brewmaster while Cavaliers game with Bethersden fell foul to the overnight rain.

Reminder: Weald of Kent Charity Final at Tenterden on Good Friday (2.45)

STAPLEHURST-v- BROMLEY GREEN

Dave Homewood reports from the Swan Ground

Pickard continues his scoring spree

 

Bromley Green Reserves 6 Oakwood Reserves 0

 

An opening long-range shot by captain Jim Pickard, who has hit a rich vein of scoring, set the Green on their way to maximum points at the Swan Ground on Saturday and kept the four-horse race for the title well and truly bubbling. Pickard, making his 14th league appearance of the campaign, is thankfully steering clear of the injury blight that has hampered his career at the club in recent seasons.  Oakwood in all honestly were unconvincing and the game was effectively finished as a contest when the ever-lively Gary Mickelborough notched a typical hat trick; demonstrating once again that he represents the difference between winning leagues and being also-rans. With Micky Davies yet again nominating himself as man of the match, and the experienced Steve Wilson comfortably controlling the back line, the result was never in doubt and further scores from Stuart Prior and substitute Tom Poyner rounded off the scoring. A sporting affair very well officiated by Mr G Hoare.

Green: D Noden; G Gibbs, S Wilson, A Bond, M Davies, J Pickard, S Gibbs, C Southen, H Hrehorow, G Mickelborough, S Prior. Subs: K Barrett, T Poyner, R Brand

Next week the seconds are hosts to local rivals Kennington in another vital league match (2.45pm).

Ciaran McQuillan talks exclusively to The Green Lane

We played at home for the first time in a month against a very useful Norton team and were duly put to the sword from the first minute. It certainly appears to go against you when things aren't going your way because a blatant penalty was waved away when Stuart Daniel was put clean through which might have resulted in a different outcome on the game if awarded. However, the referee obviously didn't fancy sending off the guilty Norton defender (as should have been the case as per rules) so ignored all claims for a penalty and booked a Green player for having the audacity for questioning the decision. Even the Norton defender concerned apologised for the challenge. Norton scored after a minute and with the Green rarely making any inroads into the visitors half, you felt it was only a matter of time before the league leaders scored again. The much over-used main pitch was to be our undoing on the second Norton goal when Joseph McQuillan received a back pass from Ryan Smith only for the ball to hit a divot, strike the hapless keeper on the left knee and deflect into the path of a grateful opponent. We then lost Buster Beaney through a recurring injury and with that all hopes of a comeback diminished. More worryingly, Buster may not be available for the Weald of Kent Cup Final on Good Friday. The second half produced some excellent football from both sides but with Norton having pace and guile to burn it was always going to be an uphill battle. Craig Southen was struggling with a back injury and Stuart Daniel was also carrying a knock but both played on despite been restricted. Norton were 4 up when James Barham produced a stunning strike from 30 yards to bring some cheer to the beleaguered Green camp. Norton then equalled that feat with a move that was both stunning and lethal in its execution. Craig Smith then had a goal disallowed for offside after Tommy Lockett had struck the bar from the edge of the box. Norton then made it six to complete the sequence. James Barham was sent off for his second bookable offence, although his first for a two-footed lunge was enough to warrant a straight red. Tommy Lockett was lucky to stay on the pitch when he was involved in an unsavoury incident which was a shame because his attitude has been second to none of late. All the players have to be commended for their attitude when, quite frankly their backs are against a wall.


Bodkin Cup hopes still alive

Wye 2 Bromley Green 7

In the most testing season the Green’s Sunday seniors have endured for many a year, there is still hope of silverware after this comprehensive victory over the brave villagers. With the line-up changing drastically every week, it is difficult for the side to gain any continuity but there was enough experience in the side to set up a semi-final with Kennington. Glenn Mackett, with two spot kicks, Gary Mickelborough 2, Tommy Lockett, Danny Valler and Marcus Hodges were the marksmen; while there was an encouraging run-out for substitute Jamie Dobbin. Talking to The Green Line, assistant manager Mark Day said there are still real problems with the stability of the defence. “In my day we had to do what the manager said, players just don’t seem to listen these days and apply basics; but credit to the lads that are there every week. It is going to be hard but we have not given up on the league yet”. Next Sunday the boys travel to meet Hamstreet in the Ashford Charity Trophy and will be hoping for the return of Leon Reed, Craig Southen, John Lockett and Kevin Barrett. Green: J McQuillan; D Valler, C Petts, S Skillett, L Gilbert, T Poyner, G Mickelborough, G Mackett, L Ealham, M Hodges, T Lockett. Sub: J Dobbin Jimmy Pickard netted the Saturday Reserves consolation goal in the 2-1 defeat at Bly Spartan Reserves. This Saturday the side face Oakwood Reserves at the Swan Ground with a 2.45pm kick off whilst the firsts have no fixture at the time of writing.

Under 15s comfortable win at The Stadium

Steve Mailey reports to The Green Lane

Dynamo United 0 2 Bromley Green

For reasons unknown to me, we travelled to Folkestone with just 11 players. Those present put in a great team display as we looked to avenge the heavy defeat handed to us the last time we met. Murrell took centre stage at the heart of defence again, dealing with every single ball! That stability is passed through the side, as Neil put in a top central showing against some bigger lads. Seeing certain players grow in confidence is very pleasing, with Blowers and Cahalane again threatening from wide. We went in front through Neil, who reacted first from a corner. The lead was extended thanks to another delivery from Blowers. Other chances came and our effort possibly deserved a bigger margin. At the other end, we restricted Dynamo to just a few chances - but keeper Martyn Dalby dealt with them well, including a superb save which actually looked impossible! Dalby's display earned him Man of the Match. I can't ask for more than what the boys are giving (except a sub or two!), so well done to all. Dalby / Bugden / Hurst / Murrell / Barton / Cahalane / Neil / Wojtowicz / Blowers / Churchley / Pierzchala Goals: Neil / Blowers No Subs

This week the boys are at home to Highfield United (16 March 2008)


Saturday evening (8.3.08) update

Not a good day for the Green with the firsts losing 6-1 at home to champions-elect Norton Sports and the seconds going down 2-1 at close rivals Bly Spartans Reserves. Congratulations to Marcus Hodges who hit a hat trick for Faversham in their 6-1 win at Sevenoaks. David Cook also found the net but Hythe slipped up 2-1 at home to Beckenham. For tomorrow's Bodkin Cup tie at Wye, Dave Andrews has Lee Gilham, Craig Southen, Leon Reed and Kevin Barrett all missing. The seconds have no game while the Under 15s are meeting 12.45 at the ground for the trip to Cheriton.

Wednesday night update...

Gilham Shock: Key defender is back in plaster

Saturday night update

Long-serving central defender Lee Gilham is back in plaster, effectively meaning he has little chance of registering any meaningful contribution throughout the whole of the 2007-08 season. This is terrible news for the player and the Green as a club and Vice President Ciaran McQuillan summed up the mood at the moment when he lamented "Just when you thought things couldn't get any worse!"  Patron Dave Homewood said "We all feel for Lee  who is much loved at this club; quite what he has done to deserve this lousy deal is beyond me.  Lee is one of those like the Miltons and the Macketts of this world, that when the going gets tough he wants to be in there wearing his Green shirt with pride.  We have missed him sorely both Saturdays and Sundays and I know he will be angry at missing out on trying to help his mates rescue something from a frustrating season. All we can do is wish him a full recovery however long it finally takes".

Senior games this coming weekend:

Home Norton Sports

Away Bly Spartan Reserves

Away Wye (Bodkin)

Sun Res no game

A defiant Peter Intrieri talks to The Green Lane

Dave report as follows:

On a very sunny blustery day the much-changed Green firsts battled out a 4-2 defeat at the hands of Rusthall. Early signs showed that this game was not going to be easy as Rusthall dominated from the off and only an array of errors allowed the home side to take the lead with a well taken goal. Not to be deterred the green came very close through Stu Daniel, who broke clear just putting the ball wide. The green then lost their centre half, Lee Gilham on his return back from a lengthy injury. Left back Ryan Holloway was then drafted into the middle and was an inspiration to others as the green broke clear for Tommy Lockett to equalise. A thunderous 25 yarder gave Joe McQuillan no chance 2-1 Rusthall. With the wind playing its part Craig Southen looked up and swung in a cross that landed in the top right hand corner. 2-2. With minutes remaining in the first half a blatant offside goal was scored by Rusthall 3-2. With an encouraging half time talk, the lads were ready for the challenge and went out very upbeat and confident of getting something from the game. This never happened and 15 minutes from time it was 4-2 to Rusthall after another basic error. Pick of Rusthall were the two front men with new signing Ross Cable dominating the game. With the possibility of only 9 players on Friday evening and the debuts of numerous youngsters were a plus. There are not many teams that leave here with many points.

Many thanks to Rusthall FC for their hospitality and friendly welcome.

The club now needs to stick together on all fronts to help the first team avoid the drop as they are now in a relegation battle. 

Preview from Sunday Reserves Manager

In what can only be described as a must win game, the Sunday Reserves look forward to the visit to the swan centre of Egerton. Manager Phil Wedge is boosted by the return of Ryan Holloway, Matty Wedge & James Major; but Ash Webster will still be missing with Tom Poyner being drafted back into first team action these are testing times for both Sunday teams. All support welcome, come and cheer your boys to win, kick off 10-30. Phil.

This weekend's league fixtures

Saturday first away to Rusthall

Sunday first away to Aldington

Sunday Reserves home to Egerton

Under 15s home to Deal

Weekend Review: Two wins, two defeats

Saturday

Norton Sports 8 Bromley Green 2

Bromley Green Reserves 2 Larkfield & New Hythe Reserves 0

Sunday

Kennington 1 Bromley Green 2

Bromley Green Reserves 0 Shadoxhurst 1

Leaders: Market 11-23, Green 9-18, Cavaliers 8-17, Ken 11-16, Brew 9-13

The managers have their say...

Phil Wedge writes exclusively for The Green Lane

Manager Phil Wedge had nothing but praise for 9 men Green as they lost 1-0 to Shadoxhurst in the Sheber Cup.  Shadoxhurst fielding a team of glory hunters were put under pressure from the kick off, with Chris Burden going close on several occasions.

Greens pressure paid dividends when we were awarded a penalty, only for the usually dependable Ricky Milton to put wide. With scores level at 0-0 at the interval Green went into the second half with confidence, but with 60 minutes one single lapse in concentration proved to be our undoing.

With extra time possible Wedge went for broke and pushed extra men forward but alas it wasn’t to be.  Final result Bromley Green 0 Glory hunters 1. Man of the match Sean Dadd. Regards Phil.

Ciaran McQuillan writes exclusively for The Green Lane

It was never going to be easy at Norton on Saturday & so it proved to be as the hosts eventually ran out convincing 8-2 winners. For the first 40 minutes we held our own & actually took the lead via a fine strike from the superb Mark Bond, but you always had this horrible feeling that Norton had the pace & firepower to react to this setback. Losing Ashley Webster early on to a terrible lunge from the Norton skipper didn't help but it was basic schoolboy errors that led to the equaliser. Time & again we gave the ball away too cheaply & we were punished at the back post after a ball was cut across the six-yard box. Tommy Lockett, who was on for the injured Webster then picked up an injury which meant he had to lumber through the game because Mark Mason was taken off following a collision in the oppositions penalty area. It was during Mason's period of treatment that Norton took the lead, once again, pace being our undoing.
A third goal on the stroke of half time was cruel & visibly knocked the stuffing out of a lot of the players & it curtains as far as the game was concerned.
With Joseph McQuillan on for Mark Mason the second half was a gutsy display but with Glenn Mackett, Buster Beaney & Lockett carrying injuries it was a bit like lambs to the slaughter as the Faversham side pounced on their wounded prey. Lee Milton scored from the edge of the box to make it 5-2, but 3 late strikes sealed our fate.
Another no show meant we only had 2 subs & some players quite frankly don't even have the courtesy to answer messages but will probably expect to be picked for the Cup final.
Next week we have another tough trip away to Rusthall.
Peter & I would like to thank the four senior players who have remained with the squad through these difficult times & all those who have had to come in & try & bail us out of the shit.
 
Team: Craig Smith, Dan Cheeseman, Mark Bond, Buster Beaney, Sean Skillett, Lee Milton, Leon Reed, Craig Southen, Mark Mason, Glenn Mackett, Ashley Webster. Subs: Tommy Lockett, Joseph McQuillan

Prior and Poyner secure the points but Gibbs unhappy with standards

A goal apiece from Stuart Prior and Tom Poyner against mediocre Larkfield & New Hythe Reserves kept the Green well on target to recapture the Eastern Reserves Division title but manager Gary Gibbs told the The Green Lane that this was far from a good performance.

Mickelborough again the key with timely double

Gary Mickelborough is hitting his best form just at the right time as the Green have stormed back into hot contention for the Sunday League title after looking somewhat disheveled until just a few weeks ago. The current Player of the Season notched the two goals that not only sunk local rivals Kennington but also now see the Green right in the mix as the race for the finishing line begins in earnest. Dave Andrews told The Green Lane he is determined to keep the championship at the club despite the docking of three points by the league. "Every week is a cup final for us now, the spirit in the camp is terrific. Win every game and we win the league...we've done it before, so why not?  In reality I think it is going to go to the wire this year. But don't back against us!"  Only injuries to key players seems likely to prevent the Green from hitting their usual end of season high notes but with some very useful reserves waiting to grab their chance, the management team of Andrews, Jamie Allan and Mark Day are quietly confident. This week the boys have another tough test at Aldington.

Green answer their critics as Hodges hits four

Bromley Green 7 Market 0

Title holders Green made a mockery of those who have written them off for this season's crown by strolling to this win on Sunday that opens the race wide open again with a cluster of sides all in with a shout. A great squad effort with Marcus Hodges claiming a personal tally of four and the others coming from Lee Milton and substitute pair Kevin Barrett and Tom Poyner. Next Sunday the boys are at Kennington and there will be fitness tests for Glenn Mackett, Lee Gilham and John Lockett.

U15s go down 4-0 at Betteshanger...details to follow

Saturday night update

Bearsted 3 Bromley Green 1

Peter Intrieri talks exclusively to The Green Lane...

 

A bitterly cold day at Bearsted saw the Green's 1st XI as unlucky losers. A slow start by the Green who really never got out of first gear in the first half were bemused by the lack of consistency by the man in black who booked our players for petty offences yet seem to miss three horrendous tackles by the Bearsted number seven. Losing Glenn Mackett after only 20 minutes did not deter the spirit of the Green, but it was a basic error that let Bearsted in with only minutes left in the first half.

After only 10 minutes of the restart Bearsted go in front 2 - 0 through very impressive use of the wings for a simple tap in. Then out of nowhere the green show true character and completely dominate the game with some slick football and an array of sitters missed. It was left to the consistent Buster Beaney to notch a powerful Ronaldo like strike of 25 yards to set alarm bells ringing in the home camp. The man in black then strikes again to reduce the Green to 10 players, sending off Charlie Clarke, however not to be deterred chances by the Green should have salvaged a point, until the last 2 minutes when a penalty was awarded leaving the result 3 - 1.

The Green were missing Steve Harris and Stu Daniels while a player saying he would turn up just did not. We stay positive in our quest for survival and do not worry about what is going on elsewhere.

Craig Smith, Barry Beaney, Shaun Skillet, Dan Cheeseman, Charlie Clarke, Lee Milton, Ashley Webster, Leon Reed, Craig Southen, Glenn Mackett, Joe Mifsud.

Subs All Used: Tommy Lockett, Joe Mcquillan, Lee Gilham

Great to see Club Stalwart Lee Gilham playing in a Green shirt again 

Bromley Green Reserves 5 Otford United Reserves 0

(Scorers Prior 3, Poyner, Pickard)

Stephen Wilson talks exclusively to The Green Lane
After last weeks disappointment against Lenham
we really had to pick ourselves up to keep
ourselves in the title shout, and the boys responded superbly with a 5 nil drubbing against an aggressive Otford side.
Stuart prior grabbing a superb hatrick also Jim Pickard being pushed into midfield getting on the scoresheet and Kevin Barrett also scoring.
The whole team performed well, in particular vice president Lee Lurch Williams who had an absolute storming game in the midfield.
Considering key players have been taken by the
first team recently the spirit and depth of the squad has been superb.

The Eastern Reserves Division table after Saturday's games (16 February 2008)

13 Teams

Games
Played

Games
Won

Games
Drawn

Games
Lost

Goals
For

Goals
Against

Goal
Difference

Points

New Romney Reserves

15

10

1

4

36

21

+15

31

University of Kent Reserves

13

9

2

2

44

18

+26

29

Bromley Green Reserves

12

8

3

1

39

18

+21

27

Bly Spartans Reserves

14

8

3

3

42