Profiling potentially Melee's best ever signing Fabio Zucchelli is not a simple job. Fab signed in the lower legues of the Westminster championships after being picked up for an absolute bargain, proving an instant hit with both fans and players. This super keeper often referred to as 'the cat' set the bar high he delivered consistenly ever since helping Melee to 4 title winning seasons, proving the platform of security that Melee lacked for so many seasons in past eras. The shot to goal ration from the opposition is always low thanks to his cultered keeping ability and desire to pull off that champagne saving moment. Hopefully the future will continue to be bright and he will sign that life time term contract that is on the table.
Name: Fabio Zucchelli
Nickname: The Cat, Fab
Position: Keeper
Age: 26
Height: 6"2
Foot: Hands
Favourite Team: Man United
Seasons: 6
Games: 40
Melee Goals: 1
Shots Saved: 8,743
Skills: Shot Stopping, Diving (in a good way), Positioning, Chat, Flair, Italianess
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Player Profile : Fabio
Profiling potentially Melee's best ever signing Fabio Zucchelli is not a simple job. Fab signed in the lower legues of the Westminster championships after being picked up for an absolute bargain, proving an instant hit with both fans and players. This super keeper often referred to as 'the cat' set the bar high he delivered consistenly ever since helping Melee to 4 title winning seasons, proving the platform of security that Melee lacked for so many seasons in past eras. The shot to goal ration from the opposition is always low thanks to his cultered keeping ability and desire to pull off that champagne saving moment. Hopefully the future will continue to be bright and he will sign that life time term contract that is on the table.
Name: Fabio Zucchelli
Nickname: The Cat, Fab
Position: Keeper
Age: 26
Height: 6"2
Foot: Hands
Favourite Team: Man United
Seasons: 6
Games: 40
Melee Goals: 1
Shots Saved: 8,743
Skills: Shot Stopping, Diving (in a good way), Positioning, Chat, Flair, Italianess
Melee emphatically smash Cervix, lose interest after penetrating for 15 minutes and leave unsatisfied with premature performance
The last game of the season dawned on the mighty Melee with the opportunity to claim automatic Champions League qualification up for grabs. The pre-game pub training camp revealed the opposition’s preparatory tactics, which took its inspiration from professional athletes: drinking lager. Yep, Andy Fordham was a professional athlete. Fact.
Once all members of Melee had reluctantly dragged themselves away from the Germany Holland match and things kicked off, the team started pretty well, zipping the ball around with assurance. Dave returned to action at the last minute due to Adam’s work operating in a US time zone. The all-action Melee maestro had been missed and was welcomed back after an ankle injury, particularly after guaranteeing a goal scoring return to play. Melee continued to dominate Her Majesty in a way only Prince Phillip could claim to have acheived, and soon Jack slotted in a neat close range finish after excellent build up play. One became two shortly afterwards, Jack firing a cleanly struck shot from the right into the far post after good work from Pils, Dave and Foz (I’m not going to lie, I can’t remember who passed to who, but I’m sure you all played a vital role). A third followed, Jack bagging a hat trick after intricate build up play from, um, Pils, Dave and Foz.
By this point Her Majesty’s Cervix were so exposed her uterus was practically showing, but they did test Melee’s defence from time to time, and Fabio The Cat Zucchelli (as all his team mates call him, although he doesn’t like to bring it up) was forced into some typically unorthodox saves. One save, palming the ball away after a deflected shot, has been described as ‘world-class’ by some, and replays do indeed prove it may have been one of the best saves of all time. Despite the omnipotent shot-stopper, OHMC did break through, their striker turning neatly a-la Mario Gomez and slotting in the top corner. Luckily, Jack was not done scoring for the half so he brought his personal and team’s tally to 4 before the break, slotting his finish through the keeper’s legs. Melee were unable to convert further chances, with Dave smashing a shot against the bar and firing a shot wide, and Foz and Pils forcing good saves from the keeper.
As the saying goes, football is a game of two halves. This is also literally true, so the teams took a quick break and changed ends, as is tradition. Melee started the second half poorly, conceding early on, as is also tradition. The little guy who had spent the first half in goal found himself with room to shoot and slotted it in the near post Fabio had kindly left gaping wide open for him. At 4-2 Melee’s heads noticeably dropped, resulting in less movement (including backwards towards our goal to defend) and Her Majesty’s Tail was up (insert crude comment here). Melee were regularly outnumbered at the back and, were it not for wasteful dallying on the ball, they could have scored more freely. Fabio then inexplicably decided to roll the ball out to a OHMC player, who then created a goal scoring opportunity which was dispatched through the keeper’ legs. Melee were still creating chances, but were resorting to shots from range in the main, and the fluid interplay of the first half dissipated somewhat as confidence gradually sapped. OHMC equalised with a deflected shot in the bottom corner, and Melee realised positive action was now required. The tempo picked up as urgency ensued, but a very unlucky goal involving a massive deflection from Dave spoiled the party and OHMC went up 5-4. A late poked close range effort by Jack was well saved and at 10pm the switching off of the floodlights brought a symbolic damp squib end to a compelling and ultimately impressive season of highs, lows and no-shows.
Friday, June 08, 2012
Melee get it right as caretaker manager makes his mark
Melee produced a resolute performance in a season of adversity to finally beat their arch rivals Buckies Up 4-3.
Buckies dominated possession as well as creating a succession of chances - but it was Melee who came out on top to give interim manager Chris Pils’ side their first victory against their opponents in eight times of asking. Melee’s victory tasting ever so sweet for Pils and Dell, as the last game against Buckies earlier in the season, they were Melee’s only first team players available for selection and were on the end of a 13-2 drubbing.
It wasn’t all plain sailing, Melee were forced to mount a resilient rearguard action in the face of Buckies famous passing "carousel", but Moss (2) and Dell (1) converted their chances in addition to a slice of good fortune with a Buckies own goal, to reward the outstanding defensive work of Pils, Foz and Fabio in keeping key players short, blonde haired guy and short, dark haired guy at bay.
A tight first opening, Melee were playing deep and deploying the usual half court press, the brain child of Kevin Webb, that works so well against the formidable opposition. It was Buckies who got an early breakthrough though, taking the lead. Melee, knowing they had to score, got a slice of luck when a high ball went up on the edge of the box. Dell, leapt up to head the ball over the oncoming keeper, but before he could make contact, a horrible barge from behind by the Buckies defender meant he was floored. However, this seemed to work in Melee’s favour – in the process the ball coming off the defender and looping into the exposed net to level the match 1-1 going into half time.
Fabio in goal was peppered with efforts from distance, but the Melee No. 1 was more than equal, even with one glove – all that could be resourced before the game.
Second half, and the strong tackles became more frequent as Melee started to exert some physical strength. Pils and Foz were disciplined, letting Dell commit all the fouls. Buckies, emotionless, carried on regardless and took the lead once more, the tall black haired striker working some space to prod home from distance into the bottom left of the Melee goal.
However, Melee, who have had a tough season by their own standards, refused to lie down and they hit back instantly from kick off, as Moss took things into his own hands with a fantastic running barge and dribble – ending up with him slotting home to make the score 2-2. A great Melee debut for the lad, and an inspirational transfer by Pils.
Again Melee caught Buckies cold, Foz playing in Pils who punted from distance, his effort coming off the post and rebounding kindly at the feet of Moss who converted again. Buckies began to pour forward relentlessly, searching for another goal. Melee legs were tired, and Dells incapability to tackle was becoming more and more apparent as Buckies were awarded with free kick after free kick. No one knows how the lad didn’t get himself booked. Fabio was making smart stops from shots raining in from all angles (including a huge ‘one for the cameras’ dive, tuck and roll), although left with little options for distribution the ball was returning far too quick.
For all their incessant attacking, Buckies left spaces at the back, and these were exposed when Pils took a throw in quickly, rolling the ball through to Dell, who side footed the ball on the bounce past the keeper to give Melee a dream two goal lead.
Melee were pushed right back into their own territory as Buckies probed and passed for an opening, it was backs to the walls stuff, Foz throwing his body on the line to defend with some heroic last ditch blocks on more than one occasion. Dell spurned two great openings, and was fortunate not to pay the ultimate price.
Melee fans had a nail biting final few minutes as Buckies managed to pull a goal back, 4-3, but it was too little too late, as Melee did all they could to wrap the game up by booting the ball away from goal in every direction.
In the end, Melee’s organisation and discipline was rewarded but Pils knows they will have to produce the same - and more besides - in the last two games of the campaign to salvage their difficult season.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Melee vs. On Her Majesty Cervix
Pre game thoughts are positive, everyone in good shape, team morale high after quiz night.
Kick off - high tempo game, fast passing, good moving from Melee. Melee ontop.
Melee have ample opportunity to go ahead, but either shoot wide or keeper makes saves to deny. Dell has at least 3 good chances. Starting to look like it might be one of those nights.
Dave wins a penalty again (second one in a week won) – but misses it, sending it over. Nerves creep in.
Goal 1 – Finally Melee break through, Pils and Dell nice one two from a Melee throw in splits defence, tight angle Dell slots past oncoming keeper into bottom right.
Fabio pulls off great save across his body going top corner. The Melee keeper only has to make a few saves in comparison to other nights between the sticks but it’s good to see his concentration is still sharp with little to do.
Goal 2 – Just before half time, Pils out wide to Dell who slips but manages to slide and cross a sweet pass across to oncoming Pils who has an easy tap in into an open net. Massive psychological boost for Melee.
Goal 3 – Dave bundles ball into the net after Fabio plays a smart chip ball to Dave up front. Dave barges past 2 players and into the keeper, ball bobbles in.
Dave gets injured, knee goes.
Defending gets hard with one man less, Dave still battles hard but it’s hard to keep it tight as before. Foz, Pils and Dell deputise at the back. Dave is struggling to keep up with marking men, melee have to improvise.
On her majesty score – easy one two cuts open Melee back line, Fabio stranded - no chance.
Instant response from Melee
Goal 4 – Dave battles through finds himself on a one on one and blasts a shot through the legs of the keeper
Melee working hard, Foz and Pils defend strong, all Melee players press together, suffocate any opposition attacks.
Goal 5 – Dave plays a ball out wide to Dell, who dummys it past keeper. Everyone thinks he has gone too wide. In line with goal posts, he manages to hit the ball with back spin, it goes round the post into the net just in time before the defenders get back on the line. Defies physics, applause from opposition players and keeper. Dave is stunned, there was talk pre game that Dell only scores from tightest on angles.
Goal 6 – in a rare burst forward, Foz does well to beat one man, and find himself with his back to keeper, hearing Dells wild shouts for the ball, he plays a delicate pass to Dell who smashes in his third to wrap up victory for Melee. Great awareness from the big man (Foz).
Post game – good victory, good performance, great team goals. Confidence high, Buckies beat Barnes.
Mathematically still possible to win title….
Kick off - high tempo game, fast passing, good moving from Melee. Melee ontop.
Melee have ample opportunity to go ahead, but either shoot wide or keeper makes saves to deny. Dell has at least 3 good chances. Starting to look like it might be one of those nights.
Dave wins a penalty again (second one in a week won) – but misses it, sending it over. Nerves creep in.
Goal 1 – Finally Melee break through, Pils and Dell nice one two from a Melee throw in splits defence, tight angle Dell slots past oncoming keeper into bottom right.
Fabio pulls off great save across his body going top corner. The Melee keeper only has to make a few saves in comparison to other nights between the sticks but it’s good to see his concentration is still sharp with little to do.
Goal 2 – Just before half time, Pils out wide to Dell who slips but manages to slide and cross a sweet pass across to oncoming Pils who has an easy tap in into an open net. Massive psychological boost for Melee.
Goal 3 – Dave bundles ball into the net after Fabio plays a smart chip ball to Dave up front. Dave barges past 2 players and into the keeper, ball bobbles in.
Dave gets injured, knee goes.
Defending gets hard with one man less, Dave still battles hard but it’s hard to keep it tight as before. Foz, Pils and Dell deputise at the back. Dave is struggling to keep up with marking men, melee have to improvise.
On her majesty score – easy one two cuts open Melee back line, Fabio stranded - no chance.
Instant response from Melee
Goal 4 – Dave battles through finds himself on a one on one and blasts a shot through the legs of the keeper
Melee working hard, Foz and Pils defend strong, all Melee players press together, suffocate any opposition attacks.
Goal 5 – Dave plays a ball out wide to Dell, who dummys it past keeper. Everyone thinks he has gone too wide. In line with goal posts, he manages to hit the ball with back spin, it goes round the post into the net just in time before the defenders get back on the line. Defies physics, applause from opposition players and keeper. Dave is stunned, there was talk pre game that Dell only scores from tightest on angles.
Goal 6 – in a rare burst forward, Foz does well to beat one man, and find himself with his back to keeper, hearing Dells wild shouts for the ball, he plays a delicate pass to Dell who smashes in his third to wrap up victory for Melee. Great awareness from the big man (Foz).
Post game – good victory, good performance, great team goals. Confidence high, Buckies beat Barnes.
Mathematically still possible to win title….
Friday, February 24, 2012
Close but no Cigar
Anyone who knows Melee recognises their long standing rivalry with Buckies Up. After two consecutive premiership wins, but only losses against this formidable opponent, the team were keen as ever to prove their worth. With anticipation and trepidation weighing heavily on the player’s minds during the pre-match warm up, they discussed their approach. Talking over tactics they were too familiar with, yet had never managed to deploy successfully in game.
Melee started strong as ever, shifting the ball effortlessly around the pitch with precision and confidence. But with a strong challenge early on, Kev took a knock to the knee, rendering him injured for the rest of the first half. Regardless, Melee’s smooth playing style enabled two goals, both from Jack. The opener being a swift first time shot on the turn from a deep ball. The second, a class run down the line leaving one player standing, allowing Dell space to stroke the ball into the top far corner, from a near impossible angle.
During the second half, Melee continued to focus on the deep, safe game, allowing Buckies Up to push forward. A tactic which could seem dangerous yet Melee’s organised, communicative strategy, successfully denied their opposition that all important space they required in Melees half to score. With only long shots peppering Melee’s goal, Fabio made easy work of stopping any that were on target.
Even with this defensive playing style, Melee were still able to continue to create chances, pinging balls through to players on the break, some even going over the top from Fabio. With Kev coming back on the pitch a renewed sense of energy prompted a near miss from Dell, who perhaps had got cocky after his two early goals, as he arguably spent too much time “dilly dallying” in front of an open goal, allowing the defence time to recover and make the all important goal line save. However, Dell soon recovered his form, hitting the post with yet another shot, almost enabling Pilsbury to score from the rebound, if it weren’t for a wall of Buckies Up players. Another notable effort was the disallowed goal from Dave who slotted one past the keeper after receiving from a throw deemed “too high” by the referee.
However, with time running out, and play being so tight, Melee were allowed little opportunity for error. Throwing their clean sheet away with a goal from a corner, where good movement and a brief lapse in marking was punished. A second goal was conceded, after a treacherous pass back from “Dodgy” Dave, left everyone scrambling across the goal line to block the shot. Sadly, a composed finish meant the player found the one gap in the defence bringing the final score line to a draw.
With Buckies Up only having two clear cut chances throughout the entire game and with Melee leading right up until the end, it was inevitably a bitter blow to the team. However, after reflecting on what was a superb, disciplined and focussed team performance, the realisation set in that it was a performance to be proud of, even if they didn’t take the full three points. Preventing Buckies Up from dictating the pace of play it seems had left them static in comparison, regardless of their darting runs and tricky movement. Now all that remains is for the team to take this new, improved team ethic forwards, to our third premiership title.
You stay classy Melee, thanks for dropping by
Dave 'legs' Stothard
Melee started strong as ever, shifting the ball effortlessly around the pitch with precision and confidence. But with a strong challenge early on, Kev took a knock to the knee, rendering him injured for the rest of the first half. Regardless, Melee’s smooth playing style enabled two goals, both from Jack. The opener being a swift first time shot on the turn from a deep ball. The second, a class run down the line leaving one player standing, allowing Dell space to stroke the ball into the top far corner, from a near impossible angle.
During the second half, Melee continued to focus on the deep, safe game, allowing Buckies Up to push forward. A tactic which could seem dangerous yet Melee’s organised, communicative strategy, successfully denied their opposition that all important space they required in Melees half to score. With only long shots peppering Melee’s goal, Fabio made easy work of stopping any that were on target.
Even with this defensive playing style, Melee were still able to continue to create chances, pinging balls through to players on the break, some even going over the top from Fabio. With Kev coming back on the pitch a renewed sense of energy prompted a near miss from Dell, who perhaps had got cocky after his two early goals, as he arguably spent too much time “dilly dallying” in front of an open goal, allowing the defence time to recover and make the all important goal line save. However, Dell soon recovered his form, hitting the post with yet another shot, almost enabling Pilsbury to score from the rebound, if it weren’t for a wall of Buckies Up players. Another notable effort was the disallowed goal from Dave who slotted one past the keeper after receiving from a throw deemed “too high” by the referee.
However, with time running out, and play being so tight, Melee were allowed little opportunity for error. Throwing their clean sheet away with a goal from a corner, where good movement and a brief lapse in marking was punished. A second goal was conceded, after a treacherous pass back from “Dodgy” Dave, left everyone scrambling across the goal line to block the shot. Sadly, a composed finish meant the player found the one gap in the defence bringing the final score line to a draw.
With Buckies Up only having two clear cut chances throughout the entire game and with Melee leading right up until the end, it was inevitably a bitter blow to the team. However, after reflecting on what was a superb, disciplined and focussed team performance, the realisation set in that it was a performance to be proud of, even if they didn’t take the full three points. Preventing Buckies Up from dictating the pace of play it seems had left them static in comparison, regardless of their darting runs and tricky movement. Now all that remains is for the team to take this new, improved team ethic forwards, to our third premiership title.
You stay classy Melee, thanks for dropping by
Dave 'legs' Stothard
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Melee looking to bounce back in Premier League
Melee will try to put Wednesday's shock Premier league loss to On Her Majesty’s Cervix behind them when they continue their league defence tomorrow.
They travel to face QP Aunt FC in the next fixture, a week after the loss.
However, QP Aunt FC have played down their own chances, sporting director Rudi Voeller saying: "We're not dreamers but realists."
In Wednesday's other title challenge game, Melee rivals Buckies Up lost 8-5 to newly kids on the block Barnes Ballers. The result throwing the title chase wide open especially following Melee's 6-4 defeat by OHMC, a first defeat of the season, so early on, which further harmed the defence of their Pitch Invasion title. It leaves Melee 3 points behind Barnes Ballers, and behind Buckies Up on goal difference.
Melee’s manager and captain Kevin Webb has insisted the squad are focused.
"We'll fight to the end in all our games, whoever thinks the opposite is wrong,'' he warned. "We have to give everything in every game, and we'll do this until the end of the season.''
With next Wednesday's trip to Buckies Up in mind, Webb knows the team need a victory over a performance. “We know we have been struggling for a cohesive performance in the last few months. We have grinded results out, but last week exposed our mental state. The week before, we went 3-1 down to Acapulco then won 6-3, last week we went 4-0 up and lost 6-4. I’m no Freud but it’s clear to see that there is an issue with our mental focus during the game. To be honest, at this stage, I’m more interested in getting the points than playing well and not getting a result.”
Creative midfielder Jack Dell, who scored a brace and set up one last week, will miss the game against QP Aunt FC after girlfriend duties call. However, Webb himself returns to play after missing last week’s crazy game on girlfriend duty.
QP Aunt FC have started the season in the same capacity as Melee, one win against Acapulco 3-2 but a heavy loss to Buckies Up 10-4. The club is also at odds with their captain after managing director Wolfgang Holzhaeuser described his transfer back to the club as a "failure".
Deputy Captain Chris Pilsbury gave a brief account of last week’s loss outside Melees training ground at the weekend. “It was hard to take. After going 4-0 up, and dominating the first half so easily, it was a shock to walk away from the game with nothing. Our playing style was so ruthless, then after half time we switched off and let them walk all over us. We need to address this with a positive outlook on games, and not let our foot off the gas.”
David Stothard played down rumours of an in team rift with oldest pal Jack Dell after the two were seen squabbling after the game, Dell not travelling home with the team after being furious with the loss. Stothard said there was “nothing wrong” between the pair, and that the anger had stemmed from a poor refereeing decision that cost Melee a controversial goal. “Me and Dell are fine, we got home separately and had a cooling off period. A couple of days later we are happy as Larry sharing a camembert. I think he was the most disappointed out of all of us as he had a cracker.”
Dell was in fact so angry at the Melee performance, he was silent after the game – a real shock. When someone shouted from another team they needed another player, he jumped at the chance, donning a Colonel Getafe shirt helping the team to a 7-2 win, where he scored 3 and set up 4. It was a controversial move and may have isolated him with some Melee players, but helped the playmaker be philosophical about things. “When I played for Getafe, I realised the gulf in class. It so clear. We (Melee) must not forget that we are playing at the top of all the leagues. We have battled hard to get here, so when we lose, it stings. I can’t wait to get back against Buckies Up and show the lads I’m full of juice.”
Defensive rock Nick ‘Fozter’ and flamboyant keeper Fabio Zucchelli also mentioned motivation. Foz said post match that “It’s hard to know how to get motivated when we have won the league so many times. We know we can do well again this season, it just means taking points off Buckies and Barnes, something I and the lads all know we are capable of.” Melee keeper Fabio said that last week’s loss threw his Masters studying in sports psychology out the window. “The match last week was ridiculous. After a cracking team night out where we performed well in the pub quiz, we then showed signs of the old Melee from two seasons ago on the pitch. However the second half of the game was nowhere near good enough, and we need to be positive against QP Aunt FC tomorrow night.”
Melee know they need to be positive tomorrow night, as a starting block before big games against Buckies and Barnes. Could this be the most hard fought season yet?
Jack Dell
They travel to face QP Aunt FC in the next fixture, a week after the loss.
However, QP Aunt FC have played down their own chances, sporting director Rudi Voeller saying: "We're not dreamers but realists."
In Wednesday's other title challenge game, Melee rivals Buckies Up lost 8-5 to newly kids on the block Barnes Ballers. The result throwing the title chase wide open especially following Melee's 6-4 defeat by OHMC, a first defeat of the season, so early on, which further harmed the defence of their Pitch Invasion title. It leaves Melee 3 points behind Barnes Ballers, and behind Buckies Up on goal difference.
Melee’s manager and captain Kevin Webb has insisted the squad are focused.
"We'll fight to the end in all our games, whoever thinks the opposite is wrong,'' he warned. "We have to give everything in every game, and we'll do this until the end of the season.''
With next Wednesday's trip to Buckies Up in mind, Webb knows the team need a victory over a performance. “We know we have been struggling for a cohesive performance in the last few months. We have grinded results out, but last week exposed our mental state. The week before, we went 3-1 down to Acapulco then won 6-3, last week we went 4-0 up and lost 6-4. I’m no Freud but it’s clear to see that there is an issue with our mental focus during the game. To be honest, at this stage, I’m more interested in getting the points than playing well and not getting a result.”
Creative midfielder Jack Dell, who scored a brace and set up one last week, will miss the game against QP Aunt FC after girlfriend duties call. However, Webb himself returns to play after missing last week’s crazy game on girlfriend duty.
QP Aunt FC have started the season in the same capacity as Melee, one win against Acapulco 3-2 but a heavy loss to Buckies Up 10-4. The club is also at odds with their captain after managing director Wolfgang Holzhaeuser described his transfer back to the club as a "failure".
Deputy Captain Chris Pilsbury gave a brief account of last week’s loss outside Melees training ground at the weekend. “It was hard to take. After going 4-0 up, and dominating the first half so easily, it was a shock to walk away from the game with nothing. Our playing style was so ruthless, then after half time we switched off and let them walk all over us. We need to address this with a positive outlook on games, and not let our foot off the gas.”
David Stothard played down rumours of an in team rift with oldest pal Jack Dell after the two were seen squabbling after the game, Dell not travelling home with the team after being furious with the loss. Stothard said there was “nothing wrong” between the pair, and that the anger had stemmed from a poor refereeing decision that cost Melee a controversial goal. “Me and Dell are fine, we got home separately and had a cooling off period. A couple of days later we are happy as Larry sharing a camembert. I think he was the most disappointed out of all of us as he had a cracker.”
Dell was in fact so angry at the Melee performance, he was silent after the game – a real shock. When someone shouted from another team they needed another player, he jumped at the chance, donning a Colonel Getafe shirt helping the team to a 7-2 win, where he scored 3 and set up 4. It was a controversial move and may have isolated him with some Melee players, but helped the playmaker be philosophical about things. “When I played for Getafe, I realised the gulf in class. It so clear. We (Melee) must not forget that we are playing at the top of all the leagues. We have battled hard to get here, so when we lose, it stings. I can’t wait to get back against Buckies Up and show the lads I’m full of juice.”
Defensive rock Nick ‘Fozter’ and flamboyant keeper Fabio Zucchelli also mentioned motivation. Foz said post match that “It’s hard to know how to get motivated when we have won the league so many times. We know we can do well again this season, it just means taking points off Buckies and Barnes, something I and the lads all know we are capable of.” Melee keeper Fabio said that last week’s loss threw his Masters studying in sports psychology out the window. “The match last week was ridiculous. After a cracking team night out where we performed well in the pub quiz, we then showed signs of the old Melee from two seasons ago on the pitch. However the second half of the game was nowhere near good enough, and we need to be positive against QP Aunt FC tomorrow night.”
Melee know they need to be positive tomorrow night, as a starting block before big games against Buckies and Barnes. Could this be the most hard fought season yet?
Jack Dell
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Premiership Champions Once More
So it's been a long time since the blog was updated and catching up on 6 weeks needs a pretty decent memory but one thing I know for certain, Melee are champions once again of the LDN Westminster Premier league.
So let's start with a quick recap:
Our old nemesis beats us again with a less than perfect result, with the game tied at 3-3, late Buckies goals cost Melee once again.
Melee 3 - 6 Buckies Up
Melee returned with a must win game, easily dominating their opposition. Jack on fire scoring 4, one lovely volley from miles out
On Her Majesty's Cervix 3 - 8 Melee
The game that never was. Jamie redknapps turned up with 2 men and proceeded to get Buckies Up ringers in for the match. Melee lost 7-5 but the game was re-arranged due to league regulation rules. Huge decision by the FA
Did Jamie Rednapp Smash It P P Melee
A new team replacing Hoylake turned up for their first game and got taught a lesson in how to play 5-a-side. An obvious 11-a-side team with lots of talent are ones to watch out for next season. Team performance was high and the return of Dave S was a massive boost.
Barnes Ballers 2-6 Melee
Another must win game againt East A+Rick was vintage Melee. Marking their star striker out of the game Foz and Pils did an awesome job. Goals were shared around and could have been many more
Melee 8-4 East Anglia + Rick
Again another defeat to Buckies Up left the title in the balance. A woeful Melee got torn apart by great passing. A lack of team togetherness and perhaps naive tactics led to another loss against them. However Melee did win the last 3 mins 2-0 with a beuaty from Jack and Kev at the end.
Melee 3-9 Buckies Up
And so to last night. With two games in one night to end the season Melee needed at least 4 points to take the title. First up was the rematch of the match that never was against Jamie Redknapps. Melee started knowing they were the better side even with 4 players as Fabio turned up fashionably late for kick off. Melee quickly got off to a good start scoring early. The game didn't seem to flow nicely and was a bit gritty but Melee always showed their class scoring when they needed to. Scores finished 6-1 with only a pen getting past super Fab. Every outfield on the team sheet got a goal - jack Dave with a screamer Chris P and kev 3
With only a half hour break until the final game of the season it was clear what was required from the team. With no subs everyone had to dig deep and pull together to grind out the result and that was exactly what Melee did. The game again was on a knife edge,swinging backwards and forwards.1-0(shocking og from kev),1-1,2-1,2-2,3-2,3-3 with such a tight game nerves were on the edge as we went into the last 5 mins. With everyone working hard it seemed destined that Melee might throw the game away but with Pils already scoring an absolute driven beauty you thought Melee just had something more up their sleeves. with Fab making a save a long range effort hitting the bar you could say lady luck was on Melees side as a free kick was given for dubious hand ball on the edge of the box and was taken quickly rolled to jack who slotted home. With time running low Her Majesty's cervix pushed forward and the ball broke to Kev who just rounded the keeper to secure the victory and championship title. Once again everyone was on the score sheet as this time around Pils gets to take home the massive trophy for his mantelpiece!
What made the victory even sweeter is the Buckies Up our old enemies think they won the league but will wake to find themselves second. As Jack put it there couldn't be a better feeling to get one over them - if only we could see their faces!
Roll on next season where Melee defend there title once again, in what looks to be the toughtest season yet!
Special mention to Foz who missed the final game through illness but deserves praise for his seasons performance. Thanks also to Mark Fenwick, Fab's mate from south america, Jamie from Nicks work and Chris O who all made appearances this season.
So let's start with a quick recap:
Our old nemesis beats us again with a less than perfect result, with the game tied at 3-3, late Buckies goals cost Melee once again.
Melee 3 - 6 Buckies Up
Melee returned with a must win game, easily dominating their opposition. Jack on fire scoring 4, one lovely volley from miles out
On Her Majesty's Cervix 3 - 8 Melee
The game that never was. Jamie redknapps turned up with 2 men and proceeded to get Buckies Up ringers in for the match. Melee lost 7-5 but the game was re-arranged due to league regulation rules. Huge decision by the FA
Did Jamie Rednapp Smash It P P Melee
A new team replacing Hoylake turned up for their first game and got taught a lesson in how to play 5-a-side. An obvious 11-a-side team with lots of talent are ones to watch out for next season. Team performance was high and the return of Dave S was a massive boost.
Barnes Ballers 2-6 Melee
Another must win game againt East A+Rick was vintage Melee. Marking their star striker out of the game Foz and Pils did an awesome job. Goals were shared around and could have been many more
Melee 8-4 East Anglia + Rick
Again another defeat to Buckies Up left the title in the balance. A woeful Melee got torn apart by great passing. A lack of team togetherness and perhaps naive tactics led to another loss against them. However Melee did win the last 3 mins 2-0 with a beuaty from Jack and Kev at the end.
Melee 3-9 Buckies Up
And so to last night. With two games in one night to end the season Melee needed at least 4 points to take the title. First up was the rematch of the match that never was against Jamie Redknapps. Melee started knowing they were the better side even with 4 players as Fabio turned up fashionably late for kick off. Melee quickly got off to a good start scoring early. The game didn't seem to flow nicely and was a bit gritty but Melee always showed their class scoring when they needed to. Scores finished 6-1 with only a pen getting past super Fab. Every outfield on the team sheet got a goal - jack Dave with a screamer Chris P and kev 3
With only a half hour break until the final game of the season it was clear what was required from the team. With no subs everyone had to dig deep and pull together to grind out the result and that was exactly what Melee did. The game again was on a knife edge,swinging backwards and forwards.1-0(shocking og from kev),1-1,2-1,2-2,3-2,3-3 with such a tight game nerves were on the edge as we went into the last 5 mins. With everyone working hard it seemed destined that Melee might throw the game away but with Pils already scoring an absolute driven beauty you thought Melee just had something more up their sleeves. with Fab making a save a long range effort hitting the bar you could say lady luck was on Melees side as a free kick was given for dubious hand ball on the edge of the box and was taken quickly rolled to jack who slotted home. With time running low Her Majesty's cervix pushed forward and the ball broke to Kev who just rounded the keeper to secure the victory and championship title. Once again everyone was on the score sheet as this time around Pils gets to take home the massive trophy for his mantelpiece!
What made the victory even sweeter is the Buckies Up our old enemies think they won the league but will wake to find themselves second. As Jack put it there couldn't be a better feeling to get one over them - if only we could see their faces!
Roll on next season where Melee defend there title once again, in what looks to be the toughtest season yet!
Special mention to Foz who missed the final game through illness but deserves praise for his seasons performance. Thanks also to Mark Fenwick, Fab's mate from south america, Jamie from Nicks work and Chris O who all made appearances this season.
Thursday, December 01, 2011
In the Dogs House
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.
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, 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
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