Game 3 of the season was against East Anglia + Rick, one of the promoted teams from last year currently sitting at the bottom of the prem table.
In only what could be described as a dogged performance,Melee dug deep worked hard and pulled off a very tight 6-5 victory after coming from behind.
Chris O'Neill made his return to the Melee shirt after a long period out that some are saying was an 'emotional issue'. Mark Fenwick again joined the ranks becoming an ever more present regular, with Fab, Pils and Kev finishing the team
East A got off to a good start scoring early before two Mark goals gave Melee the lead, one of which was a fine strike from wide on the right side. Half time scores were 2-2
As the game started to open up tonnes of shots started to pepper both goals, with Fab on all time top form making a string off saves that Guianluca Buffon would be proud of.
Chris O got on the scoresheet after a well worked move before East A banged a couple in from the ginger kid up front who was by far their best player. Scores were 4-3 to them.
Kev then hit a left footed shot from distance to level it up. Mark rounded the last man before being bought down, which led to the sin bin for the East A defender. Surprisingly with 4 men East A scored to take a 5-4 lead going into the last few mins.
Melee didn't give up with legs running out, a well worked free kick saw Pils toe punt a beauty into the corner 5-5 with the teams now back at 5 a piece.
Fab pulled off a couple off majestic saves,one little touch prevented an easy tab in. Melee broke from their defence in a sweeping move leaving O'Neill through on goal. After rounding the keeper only a last ditch slide from the defender stopped the goal but the rules state that slides are not allowed and a penalty was given. Kev slotted it home, Melee win 6-5. Dogged.
Thursday, December 01, 2011
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Make Shift
This week an absentee crisis hit Melee for the rematch against Hoylake FC, with injuries, tennis, work and women all causing selection headaches that resulted in two ringers Tom Parker and Jamie bought in from Fozs work making his debut. Mark Fenwick joined the team making his 5th appearance for the club
With lots to play for early in the season the make shift team started with Foz in goal, although this didn't seem to affect Melee who got off to a great start with Jamie opening his account on debut. Hoylake came back into it with a sneaky goal of the inside post before Kev put Melee back up in front.
With Melee playing the better football more goals followed, Jamie again on the scoresheet after some neat play from Mark to set him up and Pils bagged his customary goal with a superb finish. Hoylake came back into the game towards the end of the half leaving Melee leading 4-2
With the team rotating Kev took over the goalie gloves after the break. The game started to become very tiring with Melee working hard to keep with the opposition. Getting pegged back deep into their own half Melee found themselves playing on the counter attack. This didn't seem to work as lots of shots started to come at the Melee end, resulting in two goals for Hoylake, despite good defending from Pils and Foz.
Quickly after the Hoylake goal a lovely bit of skill from Jamie took on two players to slot home giving Melee the upper hand with 5mins left to play. Even after the goal Melee struggled to get out their half, giving the ball away and legs started to tire. With all this Melee dug deep, putting in some last minute tackles and watching shots fly wide and over. It wasn't until the last kick of the game that some poor defending led to a Hoylake player nicking the ball and a week shot bounced into Kev who just didn't save the shot. Gutting end to a truly gusty performance with only a few regulars on show. Thanks to those who turned up last minute
The draw sets up the season nicely with some interesting games to be played out
With lots to play for early in the season the make shift team started with Foz in goal, although this didn't seem to affect Melee who got off to a great start with Jamie opening his account on debut. Hoylake came back into it with a sneaky goal of the inside post before Kev put Melee back up in front.
With Melee playing the better football more goals followed, Jamie again on the scoresheet after some neat play from Mark to set him up and Pils bagged his customary goal with a superb finish. Hoylake came back into the game towards the end of the half leaving Melee leading 4-2
With the team rotating Kev took over the goalie gloves after the break. The game started to become very tiring with Melee working hard to keep with the opposition. Getting pegged back deep into their own half Melee found themselves playing on the counter attack. This didn't seem to work as lots of shots started to come at the Melee end, resulting in two goals for Hoylake, despite good defending from Pils and Foz.
Quickly after the Hoylake goal a lovely bit of skill from Jamie took on two players to slot home giving Melee the upper hand with 5mins left to play. Even after the goal Melee struggled to get out their half, giving the ball away and legs started to tire. With all this Melee dug deep, putting in some last minute tackles and watching shots fly wide and over. It wasn't until the last kick of the game that some poor defending led to a Hoylake player nicking the ball and a week shot bounced into Kev who just didn't save the shot. Gutting end to a truly gusty performance with only a few regulars on show. Thanks to those who turned up last minute
The draw sets up the season nicely with some interesting games to be played out
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
'the greatest ever Melee team'?
There are certain moments in life that define who you are, conjure what you believe in and even alter the course of history. Last night became one of those moments - Melee London Westminster PitchInvasion Premier League Winners. There are suggestions from some that this side has now become 'the greatest Melee team of all time' and who could blame them with 2 back to back promotions followed by the premierships number 1 spot.
With Hoylake FC and Melee level on points at the top of the table with one game to play it felt like a cup final atmosphere on a mild novembers night. With the stakes at an all time high and the excitement of witnessing greatest the game drew in Melees biggest crowd of the season as friends and family gathered in anticipation of the winning that title trophy
Hoylake kicked off and started very physically whilst knocking the ball around, as did Melee with slightly more style and movement. However some quick closing down from both teams made it tricky to string many passes together. Melee once again began with their now traditional slow start and conceded by getting caught at the back. 1-0. Melee definitely knew they were in for a game.
A response followed after some nice play, Fabio rolling the ball out onto Kev who slotted home from the angle. 1-1. Melee now into the game started to create chances with a couple of near misses before Jack buried a lovely half volley with the keeper out of his goal. 2-1. Again some long balls from the opposition keeper were causing issues in the defence and one broke favourably to a Hoylake player who finished nicely before half time. 2-2.
Melee started the second half well and quickly got back after some lovely interchange in midfield leaving Pils to slot just pass the out rushing keeper. 3-2. Suddenly the game started to change and out of Melees control. Hoylake came back into it and started to get the upper hand,applying a great deal of pressure with Melee resigned to playing on the break. This didn't pay off and soon more of the long ball stuff started to work, Hoylake with two quick goals. Suddenly 4-3 up.
Melee needed a response as the game could have run away from them and it came in the the unusual form of Nicky Foster who hit an absolute humdinger from distance,driven low under the corner with mesmerising velocity. What a time to pull your best goal for Melee out of the hat. 4-4.
However once again long ball proved difficult to deal with and a very scrapy goal led to another tap in for Hoylake. Melee down once again 5-4.
With time running short Melee knew they needed that one goal to draw level and take the title on goal difference. Some frantic play at either end left the crowd on the edge of their seat. Once more Foz gave the Melee fans something to cheer about as tensions rose, by being in the right place at the right time, finding himself out of position in the oppositions penalty box. After some short passes and some blocked tackles the ball fell at Foz's feat for him to cooly slot home into the corner in true Robbie Fowler style (the first and last time Foz will ever be referred to as skills like God!). 5-5
With more heart in the mouth stuff at either end, one goal either way would turn the game once again. Wave after wave came from Hoylake with Fabio pulling off a string of majestic saves taking his total to way into double figures for the game and picking up his man of the match performance for keeping Melee in the game. With the opposition keeper getting desperate and coming up in attack, the ball broke to Fabio whose long range effort only just drifted wide. The game could have gone either way but a quick counter attack saw a one two three between Jack, Kev and Pils, leaving Pils free on the left to shoot at goal. The ball deflected off the keeper straight back across goal where Kev followed up to smash the ball home and give Melee that all important cushion right before the final whistle. Melee 6 - 5 Hoylake. - Melee crowned Premiership champions to the sounds of the fans singing Champione, Champione, Ole, Ole, Ole. WHAT. A. GAME. what a season.
Special thanks has to go out to Justyn who came and didn't manage to get on, Dave S for his performances earlier in the season before injury, his Dad Vince for the support and the couple of Janes who made it along to cheer on Melee too.
The table reads so sweetly, with Melee sitting right at the top
With Hoylake FC and Melee level on points at the top of the table with one game to play it felt like a cup final atmosphere on a mild novembers night. With the stakes at an all time high and the excitement of witnessing greatest the game drew in Melees biggest crowd of the season as friends and family gathered in anticipation of the winning that title trophy
Hoylake kicked off and started very physically whilst knocking the ball around, as did Melee with slightly more style and movement. However some quick closing down from both teams made it tricky to string many passes together. Melee once again began with their now traditional slow start and conceded by getting caught at the back. 1-0. Melee definitely knew they were in for a game.
A response followed after some nice play, Fabio rolling the ball out onto Kev who slotted home from the angle. 1-1. Melee now into the game started to create chances with a couple of near misses before Jack buried a lovely half volley with the keeper out of his goal. 2-1. Again some long balls from the opposition keeper were causing issues in the defence and one broke favourably to a Hoylake player who finished nicely before half time. 2-2.
Melee started the second half well and quickly got back after some lovely interchange in midfield leaving Pils to slot just pass the out rushing keeper. 3-2. Suddenly the game started to change and out of Melees control. Hoylake came back into it and started to get the upper hand,applying a great deal of pressure with Melee resigned to playing on the break. This didn't pay off and soon more of the long ball stuff started to work, Hoylake with two quick goals. Suddenly 4-3 up.
Melee needed a response as the game could have run away from them and it came in the the unusual form of Nicky Foster who hit an absolute humdinger from distance,driven low under the corner with mesmerising velocity. What a time to pull your best goal for Melee out of the hat. 4-4.
However once again long ball proved difficult to deal with and a very scrapy goal led to another tap in for Hoylake. Melee down once again 5-4.
With time running short Melee knew they needed that one goal to draw level and take the title on goal difference. Some frantic play at either end left the crowd on the edge of their seat. Once more Foz gave the Melee fans something to cheer about as tensions rose, by being in the right place at the right time, finding himself out of position in the oppositions penalty box. After some short passes and some blocked tackles the ball fell at Foz's feat for him to cooly slot home into the corner in true Robbie Fowler style (the first and last time Foz will ever be referred to as skills like God!). 5-5
With more heart in the mouth stuff at either end, one goal either way would turn the game once again. Wave after wave came from Hoylake with Fabio pulling off a string of majestic saves taking his total to way into double figures for the game and picking up his man of the match performance for keeping Melee in the game. With the opposition keeper getting desperate and coming up in attack, the ball broke to Fabio whose long range effort only just drifted wide. The game could have gone either way but a quick counter attack saw a one two three between Jack, Kev and Pils, leaving Pils free on the left to shoot at goal. The ball deflected off the keeper straight back across goal where Kev followed up to smash the ball home and give Melee that all important cushion right before the final whistle. Melee 6 - 5 Hoylake. - Melee crowned Premiership champions to the sounds of the fans singing Champione, Champione, Ole, Ole, Ole. WHAT. A. GAME. what a season.
Special thanks has to go out to Justyn who came and didn't manage to get on, Dave S for his performances earlier in the season before injury, his Dad Vince for the support and the couple of Janes who made it along to cheer on Melee too.
The table reads so sweetly, with Melee sitting right at the top
Thursday, November 03, 2011
MELEE MELEE MELEE
Last nights 4-1 win against QP AUNT FC was a vital result in what has turned out to be the premiership turning week of the season.
Jack scored a brilliant hat-trick, including one off his back from a goalkick, a long range passing effort and a lovely finish after a superb team move. Pils scored the other goal with a sweeping finish in pure gareth bale style.
With Kev sick as a parrot the rest of the team carried him with Foz, Pils and Jack all putting in that extra 10%. Some good saves from Fabio were important as goal difference now plays a big part in the league title.
After an unexpected result last night Acapulco Tropical defeated Buckies Up which made them slide down the table to 3rd place. This leaves Melee and Hoylake FC level at the top of the table. What makes it even more exciting is that Melee take on Hoylake next week for the big premiership decider. MASSIVE GAME.
Bring all your fans next week to cheer on Melee in what will no doubt be a classic.
Jack scored a brilliant hat-trick, including one off his back from a goalkick, a long range passing effort and a lovely finish after a superb team move. Pils scored the other goal with a sweeping finish in pure gareth bale style.
With Kev sick as a parrot the rest of the team carried him with Foz, Pils and Jack all putting in that extra 10%. Some good saves from Fabio were important as goal difference now plays a big part in the league title.
After an unexpected result last night Acapulco Tropical defeated Buckies Up which made them slide down the table to 3rd place. This leaves Melee and Hoylake FC level at the top of the table. What makes it even more exciting is that Melee take on Hoylake next week for the big premiership decider. MASSIVE GAME.
Bring all your fans next week to cheer on Melee in what will no doubt be a classic.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Melee punish The Punishers once again
On the night of Weds 26th Oct Melee took to the field in what some where saying pre match was already a guaranteed victory against the team who followed Melee up to the premiership ‘The Punishers’. With such an aggressive name you would have though the Melee team might be slightly worried but another convincing 9-3 win took Melees total vs The Punishers to 24-7 from three games.
So it’s been a few weeks since the blog was updated. There has been holidays, injuries and gigs preventing a regular team from playing together, however two excellent wins over Steaua Needarest and Acapulco Tropical were preceded by Melee’s only defeat in 17 to current league leaders Buckies Up. A shock result last night saw Hoylake FC beat Buckies Up 6-5 to leave three teams all joint at the top of the league, leaving all to play for in the remaining two fixtures including a massive game for Melee vs. Hoylake to end the season.
Although last nights game had a little bit of a testimonial atmosphere Melee played some nice football at times whilst not getting into top gear. One first half goal from each of the outfield team took the score to 4-2, which could have been many more – Foster scoring a cracker from wide right into the corner which kept up his pre match warm up screamers. Chris P also deserves mention for his cultured finish with the outside of his foot into the far corner.
Second half saw the goals start to flow although sloppy mistakes by the opposition defence did help the fact. Jack and Kev completed their hat tricks with some nice interchanges and link play. Foz grabbed a second to his delight. The scores could have been less favourable if their shooting was any good and Fab didn’t make quite a few decent saves, one special with his back! Final score 9-3
So as this season draws to a close goal difference could be the difference between 1st and 3rd. Two massive games to come – exciting times for Melee.
Xmas team curry is also on the cards – details to follow!
So it’s been a few weeks since the blog was updated. There has been holidays, injuries and gigs preventing a regular team from playing together, however two excellent wins over Steaua Needarest and Acapulco Tropical were preceded by Melee’s only defeat in 17 to current league leaders Buckies Up. A shock result last night saw Hoylake FC beat Buckies Up 6-5 to leave three teams all joint at the top of the league, leaving all to play for in the remaining two fixtures including a massive game for Melee vs. Hoylake to end the season.
Although last nights game had a little bit of a testimonial atmosphere Melee played some nice football at times whilst not getting into top gear. One first half goal from each of the outfield team took the score to 4-2, which could have been many more – Foster scoring a cracker from wide right into the corner which kept up his pre match warm up screamers. Chris P also deserves mention for his cultured finish with the outside of his foot into the far corner.
Second half saw the goals start to flow although sloppy mistakes by the opposition defence did help the fact. Jack and Kev completed their hat tricks with some nice interchanges and link play. Foz grabbed a second to his delight. The scores could have been less favourable if their shooting was any good and Fab didn’t make quite a few decent saves, one special with his back! Final score 9-3
So as this season draws to a close goal difference could be the difference between 1st and 3rd. Two massive games to come – exciting times for Melee.
Xmas team curry is also on the cards – details to follow!
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Welcome to the big league
After securing promotion last year Melee took to the field in the first ever Premiership game in the London Westminster league. With no prior experience at this level no-one knew how Melee would fair against top rate opposition called “Did Jamie Redknapp Smash It” – an ode to the infamous Richard Keys quote.
The game started tightly with chances at either end. Fabio making quite a few brilliant saves that seemed to all hit off the outside off the post. However it wasn’t all one way traffic and an early Kev shot hit the inside of the post. After some tense play and the possesion going back and forth the deadlock was finally broken by a long range effort from Kev and as soon as that happened the flood gates seemed to open in Melee’s favour. High pressing from the midfield of Chris and Mark (making his return to Melee after 3months out with that all to familiar ‘too much football now I’m in nearly 30 injury) meant that the opposition started to give the ball away for the first time. Melee capitalised on that and 4 more goals followed before half time, Kev picking up 3 and Chris Pils with a cultured finish. Half time 5-0. Roll on the premier league!
Organisation through out was key and Nick and Fabio shouted orders from the back which set out a solid formation and made it very hard for Melee to be broken down – leaving Jamie Redknapps to have only pop shots from range that Fabio eats up for breakfast. Some of the passing in the second half was sublime, interchange between Mark and Pils was great and some lovely one touch goals saw the total quickly rack up to 10-0, with Pils picking up a few more, Mark with a classy curler into the far corner and Kev tapping one in after the keeper fell over in a comical moment.
With no subs the pace started to slow as legs got tired and the away team got a couple back after what was some lovely skill in fairness. The game ended up 11-2 with all players on cloud 9 after their debut prem performance. With Melee’s rating at ‘dangerous’ the scouting sharks are floating round the team, with ‘big money offers’ on the cards from other teams and coaches ‘wanting to take on a winning side’ there could be a view that some of the team might be tempted to move on. But with a strong squad a team morale at an all time high surely even Man City can’t afford to bring in any of this Melee team (even Foz on his huge basic salary)
With Foz and Kev out next week there is a huge game pending against the team that won the Premiership the last 3 seasons and have not lost in 19 games. Can Melee continue their own 14 game wining streak? Some stats on the teams are below: looks like a massive one!
MELEE STATS
RECENT GAMES
Average Goals scored in last 3 games: 11.33 (way above average)
Average Goals conceded in last 3 games: 2.33 (around the same as average)
Overall recent form: 9 / 10
RECENT RESULTS
2011-09-28 won 11-2 vs Did Jamie Rednapp Smash It
2011-09-21 won 11-3 vs Inter Tavolato
2011-09-14 won 12-2 vs On Her Majesty's Cervix
LEAGUE TITLES
Season ending 2011-08-03 LDN Westminster Division 1
Season ending 2011-09-21 LDN Westminster Championship
THIS SEASON'S STATS
Total won: 1
Total drawn: 0
Total lost: 0
Total points: 3
Total goals for: 11
Total goals against: 2
Goal difference: 9
STREAKS
Longest winning streak 14 wins from 29-06-2011 to 28-09-2011
Longest losing streak 3 losses from 11-05-2011 to 25-05-2011
GOALS
Goals scored ever: 135
Average goals per game: 6.14
Goals conceded ever: 59
Overall goal difference: 76
Greatest thrashing ever given: vs On Her Majesty's Cervix 14-09-2011 (won 12-2)
Greatest thrashing ever taken: vs Steaua Needarest 11-05-2011 (lost 11-3)
Most goals in single game: vs On Her Majesty's Cervix 14-09-2011 (won 12-2)
NEXT WEEKS GAME
“Battle of the big hitters! Both Melee and Buckies Up are looking unstoppable this season, and both these teams have been scoring goal after blistering goal in the past few weeks. Buckies Up, we reckon, are the underdogs and Melee could win this game, but could our prediction be accurate? Lets wait and see!”
BUCKIES UP (19 games undefeated)
RECENT GAMES
Average Goals scored in last 3 games: 6.33 (way above average)
Average Goals conceded in last 3 games: 2.67 (way below average)
Overall recent form: 10 / 10
RECENT RESULTS
2011-09-28 won 8-3 vs QP Aunt FC
2011-09-21 drew 3-3 vs QP Aunt FC
2011-09-14 won 8-2 vs Acapulco Tropical
LEAGUE TITLES
Season ending 2011-04-27 LDN Westminster Championship
Season ending 2011-06-15 LDN Westminster Premiership
Season ending 2011-08-03 LDN Westminster Premiership
Season ending 2011-09-21 LDN Westminster Premiership
THIS SEASON'S STATS
Total won: 1
Total drawn: 0
Total lost: 0
Total points: 3
Total goals for: 8
Total goals against: 3
Goal difference: 5
STREAKS
Longest winning streak 17 wins from 25-05-2011 to 14-09-2011
Longest losing streak 5 losses from 17-03-2010 to 14-04-2010
GOALS
Goals scored ever: 613
Average goals per game: 5.42
Goals conceded ever: 444
Overall goal difference: 169
Greatest thrashing ever given: vs On Her Majesty's Cervix 04-05-2011 (won 13-0)
Greatest thrashing ever taken: vs QPR B Team 20-01-2010 (lost 11-0)
Most goals in single game: vs Becrypt FC Allstars 22-12-2010 (won 15-6)
The game started tightly with chances at either end. Fabio making quite a few brilliant saves that seemed to all hit off the outside off the post. However it wasn’t all one way traffic and an early Kev shot hit the inside of the post. After some tense play and the possesion going back and forth the deadlock was finally broken by a long range effort from Kev and as soon as that happened the flood gates seemed to open in Melee’s favour. High pressing from the midfield of Chris and Mark (making his return to Melee after 3months out with that all to familiar ‘too much football now I’m in nearly 30 injury) meant that the opposition started to give the ball away for the first time. Melee capitalised on that and 4 more goals followed before half time, Kev picking up 3 and Chris Pils with a cultured finish. Half time 5-0. Roll on the premier league!
Organisation through out was key and Nick and Fabio shouted orders from the back which set out a solid formation and made it very hard for Melee to be broken down – leaving Jamie Redknapps to have only pop shots from range that Fabio eats up for breakfast. Some of the passing in the second half was sublime, interchange between Mark and Pils was great and some lovely one touch goals saw the total quickly rack up to 10-0, with Pils picking up a few more, Mark with a classy curler into the far corner and Kev tapping one in after the keeper fell over in a comical moment.
With no subs the pace started to slow as legs got tired and the away team got a couple back after what was some lovely skill in fairness. The game ended up 11-2 with all players on cloud 9 after their debut prem performance. With Melee’s rating at ‘dangerous’ the scouting sharks are floating round the team, with ‘big money offers’ on the cards from other teams and coaches ‘wanting to take on a winning side’ there could be a view that some of the team might be tempted to move on. But with a strong squad a team morale at an all time high surely even Man City can’t afford to bring in any of this Melee team (even Foz on his huge basic salary)
With Foz and Kev out next week there is a huge game pending against the team that won the Premiership the last 3 seasons and have not lost in 19 games. Can Melee continue their own 14 game wining streak? Some stats on the teams are below: looks like a massive one!
MELEE STATS
RECENT GAMES
Average Goals scored in last 3 games: 11.33 (way above average)
Average Goals conceded in last 3 games: 2.33 (around the same as average)
Overall recent form: 9 / 10
RECENT RESULTS
2011-09-28 won 11-2 vs Did Jamie Rednapp Smash It
2011-09-21 won 11-3 vs Inter Tavolato
2011-09-14 won 12-2 vs On Her Majesty's Cervix
LEAGUE TITLES
Season ending 2011-08-03 LDN Westminster Division 1
Season ending 2011-09-21 LDN Westminster Championship
THIS SEASON'S STATS
Total won: 1
Total drawn: 0
Total lost: 0
Total points: 3
Total goals for: 11
Total goals against: 2
Goal difference: 9
STREAKS
Longest winning streak 14 wins from 29-06-2011 to 28-09-2011
Longest losing streak 3 losses from 11-05-2011 to 25-05-2011
GOALS
Goals scored ever: 135
Average goals per game: 6.14
Goals conceded ever: 59
Overall goal difference: 76
Greatest thrashing ever given: vs On Her Majesty's Cervix 14-09-2011 (won 12-2)
Greatest thrashing ever taken: vs Steaua Needarest 11-05-2011 (lost 11-3)
Most goals in single game: vs On Her Majesty's Cervix 14-09-2011 (won 12-2)
NEXT WEEKS GAME
“Battle of the big hitters! Both Melee and Buckies Up are looking unstoppable this season, and both these teams have been scoring goal after blistering goal in the past few weeks. Buckies Up, we reckon, are the underdogs and Melee could win this game, but could our prediction be accurate? Lets wait and see!”
BUCKIES UP (19 games undefeated)
RECENT GAMES
Average Goals scored in last 3 games: 6.33 (way above average)
Average Goals conceded in last 3 games: 2.67 (way below average)
Overall recent form: 10 / 10
RECENT RESULTS
2011-09-28 won 8-3 vs QP Aunt FC
2011-09-21 drew 3-3 vs QP Aunt FC
2011-09-14 won 8-2 vs Acapulco Tropical
LEAGUE TITLES
Season ending 2011-04-27 LDN Westminster Championship
Season ending 2011-06-15 LDN Westminster Premiership
Season ending 2011-08-03 LDN Westminster Premiership
Season ending 2011-09-21 LDN Westminster Premiership
THIS SEASON'S STATS
Total won: 1
Total drawn: 0
Total lost: 0
Total points: 3
Total goals for: 8
Total goals against: 3
Goal difference: 5
STREAKS
Longest winning streak 17 wins from 25-05-2011 to 14-09-2011
Longest losing streak 5 losses from 17-03-2010 to 14-04-2010
GOALS
Goals scored ever: 613
Average goals per game: 5.42
Goals conceded ever: 444
Overall goal difference: 169
Greatest thrashing ever given: vs On Her Majesty's Cervix 04-05-2011 (won 13-0)
Greatest thrashing ever taken: vs QPR B Team 20-01-2010 (lost 11-0)
Most goals in single game: vs Becrypt FC Allstars 22-12-2010 (won 15-6)
Thursday, September 22, 2011
The Table Never Lies
In football they say the table never lies:
Played 7, Won 7, Goal For 56, Goals Against 16 - An unbeaten goal fest of a season
Melee rounded off the championship season last night with an emphatic win over Inter Travaloto. In what some would describe as a non-event, testimonial or 'pointless' game Melee proved they were still up for it and put in a worthy champions performance with a 13-3 victory.
The team consisting of Josh ‘the cat’ Featherby in goal, Spike and Jack on their second games, old man Kev, young whipper snapper Dave and that silky lefty Chrissy P who filled in at the back for an absent nikky f. The team did what was required with a flurry of goals in the second half sealing the result. The game started very tight and was fairly even up to half time. Melee led 2-1 and it was expected to be a low scoring game. However this turned out not to be the case and as soon as Melee got a couple clear the floodgates opened and goals came freely as the opposition heads went down and their enthusiasm drained.
A lovely finish to the season saw all outfield players get on the scoresheet:
Spike 2, Jack 1, Kev 4, Dave 3 and Chris P 2
This adds up to 12 as no one can remember the other goal!
So the real test starts next week when the team moves up to the Prem. With team absences over the next few weeks it is going to be a real test to see if Melee can continue this 13 match winning streak. But for right now it is chance for Melee to be crowned double Champions.
Well done everyone in the squad for a unbelieveable season
Played 7, Won 7, Goal For 56, Goals Against 16 - An unbeaten goal fest of a season
Melee rounded off the championship season last night with an emphatic win over Inter Travaloto. In what some would describe as a non-event, testimonial or 'pointless' game Melee proved they were still up for it and put in a worthy champions performance with a 13-3 victory.
The team consisting of Josh ‘the cat’ Featherby in goal, Spike and Jack on their second games, old man Kev, young whipper snapper Dave and that silky lefty Chrissy P who filled in at the back for an absent nikky f. The team did what was required with a flurry of goals in the second half sealing the result. The game started very tight and was fairly even up to half time. Melee led 2-1 and it was expected to be a low scoring game. However this turned out not to be the case and as soon as Melee got a couple clear the floodgates opened and goals came freely as the opposition heads went down and their enthusiasm drained.
A lovely finish to the season saw all outfield players get on the scoresheet:
Spike 2, Jack 1, Kev 4, Dave 3 and Chris P 2
This adds up to 12 as no one can remember the other goal!
So the real test starts next week when the team moves up to the Prem. With team absences over the next few weeks it is going to be a real test to see if Melee can continue this 13 match winning streak. But for right now it is chance for Melee to be crowned double Champions.
Well done everyone in the squad for a unbelieveable season
Thursday, September 15, 2011
The Glory Days are Back.............
Wednesday the fourteenth of September two thousand and eleven was a glorious late summers evening. The majority of the footballing world was focused on the return of the champions league, however few could have failed to notice the statement of intent melee sent out to their rivals and indeed the world.
This weeks game saw Melee tackle their closed rival in the league in the form of On Her Majesty’s Cervix. A win for melee would secure the title with a game to go, and loss would take the league to its final week.
The match started in Melee's usual style, as they arrogantly knocked the ball about, sizing up their opponents. Melee’s early pressing effectively killed their opponents attacking endeavors. Sensing blood, melee pounced, sweeping the ball from one side of the pitch to the other, resulting in a neat one-two on the edge of the box releasing Kev through for a neat finish passed the keeper.
Alex Ferguson would later say that evening “It was a fantastic finish by the young lad”, huge praise indeed for the Melee talisman.
From this moment on the flood gates opened, and melee made it 4.0 by half time, with Kev completing his hat trick and Dave powering home from close range.
After this the heavens opened, it stated raining goals!! Not to be out down by this striking partner Dave hit a brace of goals with one a particularly stunning move involving an inspired one-two with Chris P.
Roberto Mancini would later say “Those two have a great understanding of each other and the game”.
Melee were all over their opponents like a fat kid eating cake and by this time were not only playing against the opponents, they were also playing against the referee. This led to the melee boys pushing on for more, unfortunately, they were caught! (Caught by a throw in that the ref got wrong). A three on one brake was too much even for the heroics of Fabio. Although this did little for the score, (10-1 at this stage). it did bring an end to the longest period without conceding a goal in melee 5-aside history of 58 minutes.
The game ended 12-2 with every outfield player finding their way onto the scoresheet. The result secured back-to-back promotions and Melee now find themselves in the (London Westminster) Premier League.
The win also extends Melee’s winning run to 12 games which spans back to the 29th of June. Pitch-invasion has now labeled Melee’s form with a Treat level of 10/10 which is the highest praise the website will give.
The win has also prompted the melee fan base to swell as a promise of a fan to cheer on the team when they lift the title next week. Melee hasn’t seen this type of fan base since the North London Powerleague tournament last May, in which 3 Fans made the journey. Our treasured fans though know how to keep their teams feet on the ground as on that occasion they let half way through to go shoe shopping. One fan was quoted as saying “the pitches smelled too much so we thought we’d nip to the shops”.
In melee we trust.
Goal Scorers 14.09.11
Kev 5
Dave 5
Chris P 1
Nick 1
Records:
Personal
Longest period without conceding a goal in 5-aside – Fabio – 58 mins
Most balls kicked over the fence in one game – Small guy for OHMC – 3 times
Team
Longest winning streak – 12 games
Thursday, September 08, 2011
One touch little triangles
The fifth game of the Championship season was critical as Melee took on joint second in the league in what can only be described as a 6 pointer. The opposition this week The Punishers were promoted along with Melee last season and again were despatched for the second consecutive season after previously losing 6-1 and 9-0 last night.
In what is pretty unheard of in this league Melee managed to keep a clean sheet with Fabio picking a rare bonus (he didn’t have too much to do through out the 36 minutes apart from a few smart saves and some great distribution). In a fairly tight start the game stayed 0-0 for a long period of time but the signs started to appear as Melee hit the post twice and had shots saved by their keeper. It took a beautifully worked goal for Pils to finish off before an even more cheeky finish from a free kick with his left while Kev was standing over the ball. A hilarious own goal gifted Melee a 3-0 well deserved half time lead.
The second half was all about team play. One touch passing, little triangles, high pressing and a superior understand of the game tormented the opposition. A superbly worked goal from the kick-off saw all Melee members get involved and finished by another own goal. After that Jack began to run riot finishing off 4 goals all passing moves from which the rest of the team played their part including Pils completing his hat-trick. Any chance the opposition had was sniffed out by Foz at the back including some superb last ditch tackles. (We won't mention the two awful shots, one of which went on to the tracks and nearly hit a passing train!)
The game got a bit heated at the end but who could the blame the portuguese punishers, as they were completed outclassed, given a footballing education and left completed demoralised at the final whistle.
A win next week against the team now chasing in second will secure the title with a week to spare. You can just taste that victory beer around the corner.
Goals
Jack 4
Pils 3
O.g. 2
In what is pretty unheard of in this league Melee managed to keep a clean sheet with Fabio picking a rare bonus (he didn’t have too much to do through out the 36 minutes apart from a few smart saves and some great distribution). In a fairly tight start the game stayed 0-0 for a long period of time but the signs started to appear as Melee hit the post twice and had shots saved by their keeper. It took a beautifully worked goal for Pils to finish off before an even more cheeky finish from a free kick with his left while Kev was standing over the ball. A hilarious own goal gifted Melee a 3-0 well deserved half time lead.
The second half was all about team play. One touch passing, little triangles, high pressing and a superior understand of the game tormented the opposition. A superbly worked goal from the kick-off saw all Melee members get involved and finished by another own goal. After that Jack began to run riot finishing off 4 goals all passing moves from which the rest of the team played their part including Pils completing his hat-trick. Any chance the opposition had was sniffed out by Foz at the back including some superb last ditch tackles. (We won't mention the two awful shots, one of which went on to the tracks and nearly hit a passing train!)
The game got a bit heated at the end but who could the blame the portuguese punishers, as they were completed outclassed, given a footballing education and left completed demoralised at the final whistle.
A win next week against the team now chasing in second will secure the title with a week to spare. You can just taste that victory beer around the corner.
Goals
Jack 4
Pils 3
O.g. 2
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Unbeaten Run Continues
Melee extended their unbeatean run to 10 games to leave them firmly routed at the top of the Championship division:
Beating Red Square Belgrade 6-3 was one of the harder games over recent weeks. A great team effort was backed up with at times some beautiful triangular passing play. It could have easily been more but for some easy chances going astray. A rewarding, yet physical game that was played in good spirit by both teams. With only 3 games left in the league Melee look in a great spot to take back to back championships.
Goals
Dave 3
Chris O 1
Chris P 1
Kev 1
Fabio -3!
Beating Red Square Belgrade 6-3 was one of the harder games over recent weeks. A great team effort was backed up with at times some beautiful triangular passing play. It could have easily been more but for some easy chances going astray. A rewarding, yet physical game that was played in good spirit by both teams. With only 3 games left in the league Melee look in a great spot to take back to back championships.
Goals
Dave 3
Chris O 1
Chris P 1
Kev 1
Fabio -3!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
EBOG 6-a-side tournament, Sunday 28th August, High Barnet
In the first tournament of 2011 Melee took to the field sporting their new decentinary kit (10-year), reverting back to the original blue strip worn on the first ever game. With a decent squad of 8 for the 6-a-side grass tourney including two Melee debutants, hopes were high of a good days play.
Drawn in a group of 3, the opposition looked professional in their 11-a-side Saturday league kits which could have put the Melee boys off. However the pre warm up antics of one team left Chris Pils disillusioned ‘I forgot these kind of people exist’. The format was to play each team twice, 10min matches. Melee watched the first game and anticipated a difficult match against the opposition when it was their turn to play. However when Melee eventually did run onto the field things started to fall nicely into place, the team passed the ball fluidly and confidence was starting to build. Melee smashed the first game 5-1, roll on.
The rest of the games in the group followed with Melee taking on one of the home EBOG teams (twats) beating them twice, one time convincingly. Melee topped the group, played 4 won 4:
Melee 5-1 Team in Red/Black
Melee 1-0 EBOG A
Melee 3-0 Team in Red/Black
Melee 3-0 EBOG A
After the lunch time break Melee were drawn into the Cup competition into another group of three with top two teams going through to the semi-final. The lunch break didn’t seem to be a problem and Melee stormed to another 5-1 thrashing, passing the ball into the net, finishing off the second EBOG team. Confidence seemed to be high at this stage but legs seemed to be starting to tire and Melee lost their first game of the day to a well organised (much younger) team. After the first round Melee realised they needed only 1 point from the remaining two games to qualify for the semi’s but that one point ended up being one point too many as Melee lost 2-1 to the EBOG team after taking a 1 goal lead and looking in control. Melee lost composure along with their legs in the final game to be beaten by the yellow kitted side and unfortunately leave the competition yet still with heads held high.
Melee 5-1 EBOG
Melee 0-2 Team in Yellow
Melee 1-2 EBOG
Melee 0-2 Team in Yellow
Overall Melee played some sublime footy at times, a real team effort but unfortunately it just wasn’t enough to take home a medal. Everyone enjoyed what was a fun day.
Player of tournament has to go to the super keeper Fabio who kept Melee in many of the games, making some wonderful saves and providing confidence to the back two. Goal difference of positive 10 proves how valuable he was. Special mention goes to Dave for his 5 goals and ridiculous two footed sliding challenge on the opposition keeper (although I think we all agreed the keeper deserved it).
Squad
Fabio, Jonny Jonny, Sho Nair, Chris Pils, Dave S, Jack Dell, Jonny Away, Kev
Goals
Justyn 1
Pils 1
Dave 5
Jack 3
Al 1
Kev 5
O.G 2
Team photo to follow
Drawn in a group of 3, the opposition looked professional in their 11-a-side Saturday league kits which could have put the Melee boys off. However the pre warm up antics of one team left Chris Pils disillusioned ‘I forgot these kind of people exist’. The format was to play each team twice, 10min matches. Melee watched the first game and anticipated a difficult match against the opposition when it was their turn to play. However when Melee eventually did run onto the field things started to fall nicely into place, the team passed the ball fluidly and confidence was starting to build. Melee smashed the first game 5-1, roll on.
The rest of the games in the group followed with Melee taking on one of the home EBOG teams (twats) beating them twice, one time convincingly. Melee topped the group, played 4 won 4:
Melee 5-1 Team in Red/Black
Melee 1-0 EBOG A
Melee 3-0 Team in Red/Black
Melee 3-0 EBOG A
After the lunch time break Melee were drawn into the Cup competition into another group of three with top two teams going through to the semi-final. The lunch break didn’t seem to be a problem and Melee stormed to another 5-1 thrashing, passing the ball into the net, finishing off the second EBOG team. Confidence seemed to be high at this stage but legs seemed to be starting to tire and Melee lost their first game of the day to a well organised (much younger) team. After the first round Melee realised they needed only 1 point from the remaining two games to qualify for the semi’s but that one point ended up being one point too many as Melee lost 2-1 to the EBOG team after taking a 1 goal lead and looking in control. Melee lost composure along with their legs in the final game to be beaten by the yellow kitted side and unfortunately leave the competition yet still with heads held high.
Melee 5-1 EBOG
Melee 0-2 Team in Yellow
Melee 1-2 EBOG
Melee 0-2 Team in Yellow
Overall Melee played some sublime footy at times, a real team effort but unfortunately it just wasn’t enough to take home a medal. Everyone enjoyed what was a fun day.
Player of tournament has to go to the super keeper Fabio who kept Melee in many of the games, making some wonderful saves and providing confidence to the back two. Goal difference of positive 10 proves how valuable he was. Special mention goes to Dave for his 5 goals and ridiculous two footed sliding challenge on the opposition keeper (although I think we all agreed the keeper deserved it).
Squad
Fabio, Jonny Jonny, Sho Nair, Chris Pils, Dave S, Jack Dell, Jonny Away, Kev
Goals
Justyn 1
Pils 1
Dave 5
Jack 3
Al 1
Kev 5
O.G 2
Team photo to follow
Thursday, August 25, 2011
New Season, Same Result
There was a celebratory atmosphere in the air last night after Melee paraded last seasons division 1 winners trophy aloft. That kind of morale boost served well on this average summers night seeing Melee take a 12-6 victory against Becrypt Allstars.
After two weeks of no shows Melee could have potentially been rusty and some early worry signs were there leading to an early goal gifted to the opposition. But heads didn't go down and Melee started to press and pass cleverly to take a demanding advantage into half time leading 4-1.
After the break debutant goal keeper Fabio got lobbed by the opposition goalie in what only can be described as a rare event in 5-a-side. However his general play may have already secured him a place in Melee folklore.
After the traditional taking the foot off the gas the scores stood at 5-4 in a game that could have turned around. Bizarre tactics never seen in 5-a-side of booting the ball up to the big man seemed odd,although Foz had him in his pocket for most of the game. Strong performances from Pils and Dave in the midfield changed the game back into Melees favour forcing the opposition into numerous errors. Quick goals followed with Dave and Kev taking advantage of some poor defending to rack up a tally of 5 goals a piece,leaving the opposition bamboozled and heavily deflated.
Melee now sit top again of the Championship division,with some huge games to come in the following weeks,long may this run continue (now 9 games undefeated).
Goals
Dave 5
Kev 5
Pils 2
Thursday, August 04, 2011
Champione Champione, Ole Ole Ole
So we are the champions my friends!!
In only their second season the new Melee won promotion to the Championship division after winning 6 of their 7 games with a positive goal difference of 17.
The last game of the season saw Melee needing only a draw to get promoted, however it was a final win that the team really wanted. The game started quickly and Melee were straight on the scoresheet from another new recruit Dave S scoring with practically his first ever touch for Melee.
Beautiful passing followed and some chances went begging before a flowing move end with Foz playing an outrageous flick off the inside of heal to play in O'Neill to finish clinically. Another lovely O'Neill goal followed before the opposition pulled one back from the keeper running way out of position. Half time 3-1
The team talk at half time made it clear the next goal was key and Melee quickly scored after the break from another one two move classily finished by O'Neill. more goals followed all great team moves with Dave S and Justyn setting them up. O'Neill bagged his hat trick and then his 4th with a simple tap in at the back post from a throw in, before Kev finished it with a majestic clip over the keeper in true Samuel esc style.
Some late goals from the opposition left the final score 8-4 when it could have easily been 10-2. An all round great team performance capped off the season with all the glory to come next week in picking up the league trophy.
Goals
O'Neill 4
Kev 3
Dave S 1
http://www.pitch-invasion.com/players/results-and-fixtures/league-table
In only their second season the new Melee won promotion to the Championship division after winning 6 of their 7 games with a positive goal difference of 17.
The last game of the season saw Melee needing only a draw to get promoted, however it was a final win that the team really wanted. The game started quickly and Melee were straight on the scoresheet from another new recruit Dave S scoring with practically his first ever touch for Melee.
Beautiful passing followed and some chances went begging before a flowing move end with Foz playing an outrageous flick off the inside of heal to play in O'Neill to finish clinically. Another lovely O'Neill goal followed before the opposition pulled one back from the keeper running way out of position. Half time 3-1
The team talk at half time made it clear the next goal was key and Melee quickly scored after the break from another one two move classily finished by O'Neill. more goals followed all great team moves with Dave S and Justyn setting them up. O'Neill bagged his hat trick and then his 4th with a simple tap in at the back post from a throw in, before Kev finished it with a majestic clip over the keeper in true Samuel esc style.
Some late goals from the opposition left the final score 8-4 when it could have easily been 10-2. An all round great team performance capped off the season with all the glory to come next week in picking up the league trophy.
Goals
O'Neill 4
Kev 3
Dave S 1
http://www.pitch-invasion.com/players/results-and-fixtures/league-table
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Melee 5 – 3 The Reducers
Is this the Championship winning match?!
Another good performance from the Melee boys in the humid weather last night was just what was required to keep up hopes of taking the Division 1 Championship in only the second season. With one game to go only goal difference can now cost Melee the title.
http://www.pitch-invasion.com/players/results-and-fixtures/league-table
With a squad crisis due to absentees and sickness a last minute ringer was pulled in called Spike who works with my mrs, which was good enough for me. Having not seen him play this was a big gamble for the game but proved to be critical as he stole the show with a hat-trick on debut.
The game started well for Melee with numerous shots peppering the goal. It should have been 1 or 2 but for the bar and post denying shots for Pils and Spike. Then against the run of play a breakaway goal and a miscommunication caused the visitors to take an early lead. Melee then raised their game and first half goals from Spike and Kev took a 2-1 advantage into the break.
After half time Melee had a short spell of domination, crisp passing in the midfield between Pils and Selwan lead to goals being set up for Spike and Kev, to take a 4-1 lead. Upon taken the three goal advantage Melee took the foot right of the gas and let the opposition right back into the game. Two goals from the opposition led to some panicking defending and if wasn’t for ‘The Cat’ Josh Featherby in goal the scores would have been even worse after making some great saves to keep us in the lead.
With 1min 30 to go it was getting nerve racking at 4-3 but after a long clearance Spike ran through to slot home a lovely finish which rounded of the game with his debut hat-trick and a win for Melee.
The final scores could have been much more but as they say in footy, ‘it’s the result that counts’. With three points clear and one game to play, only goal difference can stop the new Melee taking home that Championship medal.
Goals
Spike 3
Kev 2
Another good performance from the Melee boys in the humid weather last night was just what was required to keep up hopes of taking the Division 1 Championship in only the second season. With one game to go only goal difference can now cost Melee the title.
http://www.pitch-invasion.com/players/results-and-fixtures/league-table
With a squad crisis due to absentees and sickness a last minute ringer was pulled in called Spike who works with my mrs, which was good enough for me. Having not seen him play this was a big gamble for the game but proved to be critical as he stole the show with a hat-trick on debut.
The game started well for Melee with numerous shots peppering the goal. It should have been 1 or 2 but for the bar and post denying shots for Pils and Spike. Then against the run of play a breakaway goal and a miscommunication caused the visitors to take an early lead. Melee then raised their game and first half goals from Spike and Kev took a 2-1 advantage into the break.
After half time Melee had a short spell of domination, crisp passing in the midfield between Pils and Selwan lead to goals being set up for Spike and Kev, to take a 4-1 lead. Upon taken the three goal advantage Melee took the foot right of the gas and let the opposition right back into the game. Two goals from the opposition led to some panicking defending and if wasn’t for ‘The Cat’ Josh Featherby in goal the scores would have been even worse after making some great saves to keep us in the lead.
With 1min 30 to go it was getting nerve racking at 4-3 but after a long clearance Spike ran through to slot home a lovely finish which rounded of the game with his debut hat-trick and a win for Melee.
The final scores could have been much more but as they say in footy, ‘it’s the result that counts’. With three points clear and one game to play, only goal difference can stop the new Melee taking home that Championship medal.
Goals
Spike 3
Kev 2
Sunday, July 17, 2011
New Player Profile
Melee's newest recruit made the big money signing at the end of last season and has already secured a spot in the first team. Netting 5 goals in 6 games and many more assists from that sweet left foot and Chris' unselfish contributions in the midfield have proved to be crucial. His entry into the team has been the catalyst that has seen Melee win four of the last six games. Hopefully the future will continue to be bright and he will sign that long term contract that is on the table.
Nickname: Pils
Position: Midfield/Defence
Age: 27
Height: 6"2
Foot: Cultured Left
Other Teams: Cleveland Steamers
Favourite Team: Man United
Seasons: 2
Games: 6
Melee Goals: 5
Skills: Creativity, Positioning, Passing, Technique
Wednesday, July 06, 2011
The New Melee
Well well well, it has been such a long time since I posted anything on here - 4 years to be exact!
For all of those interested the next generation of the Melee team have gone back to where it all it began and signed up to a Pitch Invasion league in London. Melee are currently sitting 4th in Division 1 - link http://www.pitch-invasion.com/players/results-and-fixtures/league-table
Tonight's game saw the start of a new Melee with a team line up containing some old members - Kev, Justyn and Chris O'Neill and some new Chris Pilsbury and Selwan Al-Amin (player profiles to follow in posts at some point soon). The game was probably the best performance in the Portuguese strip which resulted in a 6-1 demolishon of The Punishers.
The game started very tightly with some quick passing from both sides but Melee broke the deadlock with some little one-two triangles. The opposition hit back with numerous chances but all kept out by the super keeper Justyn on the night. Another goal followed in the first half and Melee took a 2-0 lead into the second half.
in the second half Melee started to bully the opposition with superior strength and guile. More beautiful passing from Chris P, one two's and some lovely finishing made the score jump to 5-0 and Justyn finished it off with a lovely sweeping move with Chris O providing the clinical final pass.
Superb team effort and high work rate especially from Selwan proved to make this the best performance in 10 games. only a late consolation goal was the only negative even though the game ended really heated as the opposition couldn't handle the majestic performance that Melee put on them.
A great start with the new team, with other players to come back in and some new players to start, Melee are definitely heading in the right direction.
Goals (I think) :
Kev 2
O'Neill 2
Pils 1
Justyn 1
Thursday, June 09, 2011
A resurrection and an anniversary.
A long time ago, in a small, crowded, public house, sat three young men.
Stapled on the wall next to them was a rather ordinary looking, brown poster.
But this was no ordinary poster.
This poster had been given powers.
Not only that, but this poster spoke.
It was said in the town that everyone saw something different when staring at the poster.
And that if you leaned close enough to hear it, it would quote from the future.
On that day, one of the boys leant in to listen and heard what sounded like a strange conversation
"these milkshakes taste like banana"
"if your gonna be sarcastic about it, you can just f**k off"
"how do they know we're students?"
"1-0"
"if you do that again, I'll cut your face"
"we were predominantly playing football"
"come back in the cage and say that"
Once the poster had finished speaking, the boys looked up and watched as it began to transform. Text started to appear where there was none, and the boys stared as it formed the words "melee de la harpenden".
That was 10 years ago, on August 26 2001.
Melee has been through 3 world cups, 2 european championships, 5 weddings and more girlfriends than you can count.
And apparently, its back. In London.
What are people's thoughts on a 10 year anniversary get together?
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