Lisvane Panthers Under 9 2005/2006 season
Their second year in mini football.
The Panthers have three teams at Under 9 level - The U9's Black, U9's Orange and the newly formed U9's Orange Blues
Under 9 Black
Managers: Craig Turner, Cliff Carey, Carl Coupar
An end to what can only be described as a fantastic season for the team. The
boys have developed in all aspects of the game. They have grown in confidence
and stature, which has resulted in some excellent team performances during the
season.
We were once the whipping boys on Saturdays, but not anymore. Every team knows
that when they play us, they are in for a tough game.
We came very close in all the tournaments we played in and I am sure a win is
not far away. We had some great days and have some great memories too like when
Joe and Ben hit the score sheet for the first time at the Pentyrch tournament.
The goal celebrations we will never forget!
Ben "Keepers" Morris has now become one of the best goalkeepers about. He has
decided not to play out anymore and I am sure all the opposition players will be
happy about that (and their shins too). He has made some memorable saves
throughout the season and continues to improve every week.
Mathew "Bruised knees" Brooks, Joe "Chopper" Smith and Alex "Hacker" Jenkins are
now well-established players in our "Arsenal of old defence"! Their
understanding of the game, positional play and ability to use both feet is a
pleasure to watch. Their dog like determination to get the ball (and sometimes
the player) shows why we have conceded very little goals this season.
Sam "Non Stop" Williams and Adam " The Face" Carey will be remembered for their
running from start to finish, chasing the ball, putting in tackles and going on
length of the field runs. Both have contributed to our goals throughout the
season and also have played well in goals when they were needed.
Lewis "The Pass" Turner has scored a few goals himself this season but much
prefers to set up the goals for the strikers. His ability to use both feet and
to be quick with them on the ball helps him beat players with ease.
Will "Can I play up front" Thomas is another one of the players who has come on
leaps and bounds since last season. His work ethic, skill level, and desire to
play football stood out throughout the season.
Jack "Play Anywhere" Davies is a great utility player for the side. He can play
at the back, in midfield and also has had a few games up front. He is another
player who could be candidate for the "celebration of the season" award. A left
footed shot at Fairwater started his goal campaign, but I am sure it will not be
his last.
Michael "The Volley" Davies is now part of our strike force and has set up a
number of goals this season but has been unlucky not to get on the score sheet
himself. He has been tried in all positions this season but looks much more
comfortable up front. It is only a matter of time before he gets his first goal
for the team and hopefully it will be a volley like the one at the Radyr
tournament.
Joshua "Hot Shot" Coupar has scored quite a number of goals this season for us.
I must say that quite a few have been of the highest level. His dribbling down
the wing and crossing of the ball is something I always hope to see at Ninian
Park on a Saturday afternoon, but rarely do.
Ben "Sick note" Macomish had a great start to the season. He missed many games
due to his spell in hospital, which has prevented him playing for most of the
season. We wish him well and hope to see him back next season.
It only remains to say a big thank you to our sponsors HLN Architects, and in
particular Neil Macomish who started our team. He had to finish due to work
commitments and we all wish him well. We would like to thank all the parents for
their continued support throughout the season and their commitment to the team.
Like I said we have had a great year and look forward to an even greater one
next season.
Well done to all of you!
Under 9 Blue
Manager: Sue HallIt all began last December. I can hear it now, that small voice in my ear, but I want to play in a football team. To this day I can't quite understand that rapid turnaround from a boy who only last summer hated, and I mean hated football, with a passion. He had to be bribed with chocolate to go and watch his brother play. So there I was with a child who wanted to play, and all the teams full.
And the rest, as many will know, is history. I was given a waiting list and so started ringing. Our first training session was the Monday evening before Christmas. Seven boys turned out. We had Cardiff City, Man Utd, Chelsea, Celtic, Barcelona and Real Madrid – the prospects looked good. Sadly one of the most skillful players turned out to be too young to play as an under 9. Charlie Williams has been training each week with us though and is going to be a fantastic asset to any under 8 team next season. By the middle of January we had ten players. We could have decided not to play in the league until September but it didn't seem fair. Ten very enthusiastic boys and we even had two who didn't mind playing in goal!
So we joined the league. Soon to find out that the majority of u9 teams had been playing together for at least 18 months, some for even three years.
We haven't won any of our matches but we have improved tremendously. Several team managers, that we've met on our rounds, have commented on our progress. We've managed to score at least one goal on many Saturday's and out of the 9 pitch sides I've stood at we've drawn three games.
My thanks go to the boys, whose enthusiasm is infectious, and to the many parents who turn up to watch us on match days. I'd also like to thank the ever-present Arthur, for all his coaching tips, along with John, Mike and James who often help me in training.
We now have squad of 12 and they are:
Daniel Boase, Harris Cole, Leo Greenway, Mathew Hall, Matthew Kinsey, Patrick Morris, Lewis Nelmes, James Plaut, Joe Williams, Sam Winterbourn, Zak Weaver and Sherman Wong.
Under 9 Orange
Managers: Ian Morgan and Clive Brown
They say the second season is always the hardest. By this stage the opposition
have found you out. The raw young striker, the unorthodox centre-half never
quite have the same panache in the second season when the opposition coach has
got out his magnetic tactics board and laid his cunning traps. How would they
cope with their second full season?
Further storm clouds were brewing in the form of the perennial manager's moan. A
thin squad and not even the excuse of a cash-strapped chairman to cower behind.
Two players down at the end of last season and no new blood coming in. The
auguries were not good for the team.
It was therefore a great tribute to the players that they rose to the challenge
with great team spirit.
In terms of league results it was an average kind of season. We won a few, we
lost a few and we drew quite a few too. But we ended the season in exactly the
same position as we had ended the previous, as runners up to the Radyr
super-elite in their back-yard tournament. Maybe the score-line this time, in
the final, was not as flattering but we qualified in exemplary fashion and we
played in the right spirit.
Most of the players continued to play where they left off the previous season.
Nye and Sam Abbandonato could be found up front more often than not. Connor,
Thomas, Greg and Luke had the defence stitched up whilst Harry and Toby ran the
midfield show. Sam Gough and Alex could play anywhere and frequently did.
We continued our philosophy of strict player rotation, usually worked out in
advance. The players took it in their stride as they learned the importance of
pulling together as a team and we learned the importance of children developing
at different rates and giving them equal opportunity to shine.
Gradually as the season developed it became clear which players would play in
which slots and the children began to learn and then specialise in their
position. Goalkeeping was an issue for most of the season but hopefully now we
have a solution. Next season development will continue with a little more
selective flavouring, but nonetheless the goal will remain to give everyone an
opportunity.
Three players were worthy of a trial for a higher standard. These were Sam Gough
who became known to the team as 'Duracell' due to his continuous non-stop
running, Nye Brown who was lethal in front of goal and broke all records this
term and Toby Thomas who invariably caught the covetous eye of the opposition
coach.
A big thankyou to all the parents who supported the boys so well. A special
mention to Sukie Smart and John Machon for dealing with the finances and to
Paula Abbandonato who in hail, sleet or snow could be seen alternating between
handing out the hot cross buns and making cryptic notes on pieces of paper to be
turned into works of literary genius on the computer a few hours later. These to
appear on the website as match reports listing every child and all their deeds
of valour. Without all the parents Clive and I would be just another two sad old
men on a Saturday morning. Come to think of it…
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Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Black
Game 1 URDD
The Blacks started promisingly launching wave upon wave of attacks but excellent defending from Urdd prevented them scoring. Adam came close with a superb shot which hit the woodwork. 0-0 H/T
It was end to end stuff at the start of the second half. Adam again came very close to opening the scoring. Urdd opened the scoring against the run of play with their first meaningful attack. Blacks responded with Josh coming close in a number of goalmouth scrambles. A frantic end saw the Blacks desperately looking for a deserved equaliser.
Blacks 0 Urdd 1.
Game 2 FAIRWATER
It was a thrilling start with Adam breaking up field with only the keeper to beat but his shot went narrowly wide. There were a number of efforts on goal in the 1st half, Sam had a superb effort saved but the score remained at 0-0 H/T
Fantastic start to the 2nd half with Lewis finding Josh down the wing a well timed inside pass to Sam who put it in the bottom corner to open the scoring. Fairwater tried to respond but were kept out by Alex and Joe who put in some crunching tackles and by Ben who made some magnificent saves. Well done boys.
Blacks 1 (Sam Williams) Fairwater 0
Game 3 PENTYRCH
Blacks defended well in the first half to keep a clean sheet against a very strong Pentyrch team. Lewis was unlucky with an early effort on goal and Jack’s close range effort went narrowly wide. Pentyrch took a well deserved lead early in the second half. Special mention must go to Michael and William for their efforts for keeping the score down. Pentyrch finally sealed the game with a second goal seconds from the end.
Blacks 0 Pentyrch 2
Well done to the Blacks and their opponents for providing excellent
entertainment on a Saturday morning.
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Orange
The frosty winter's morning gave way to some buoyant play at Court Field this Saturday. With only eight boys available for the Panthers side, it was always going to be a tough few hours. Here's how they faired.....
Lisvane Panthers v Marlborough Reds (1-0)
The opening minutes saw some great defensive work by Panthers - in particular Sam Gough - which kept the scoreline at 0-0. Consistent pressure by the Lisvane team shortly resulted in a cracking goal by Toby Thomas just four minutes in. The Oranges kept their wits about them not allowing the other side to make any advances. Good midfield work helped enormously by Greg Jones and a save by Sam Abbandonato in goal kept the score in Panthers' favour at half time. The second half saw Alex Machon take the goalkeeper's role while Harry Solanot and Nye Brown battled away to contain a much pacier second half. Thanks to some good work by Luke Morgan in defence, the final whistle blew with a solid win for Panthers.
Lisvane Panthers v Capital Trucks (1-4)
Undoubtedly the fastest and toughest game of the morning, Lisvane Panthers and Capital Trucks entertained the spectators with some fabulous football . A good attempt at goal early on by Toby Thomas nearly saw Panthers on the scoreboard but it was not to be. Shortly after, despite some strong defence by Luke Morgan and Greg Jones, the blues sneaked past to get a ball in the back of the net. 1-0 down, Panthers responded with some impressive midfield skill by the two Sams. The visiting team's consistent pressure paid off however, and soon it was 2-0 down for Panthers. Not to be beaten without a fight, Nye Brown fired off the Orange's first goal. A great tackle by Alex Machon kept a further goal out. Despite the admirable defensive efforts by Harry Solanot and the rest of the team, the blues scored a further two worthy goals.
Lisvane Panthers v Rhymney (2-3)
A tiring Panthers team took to the pitch for their final game of the morning. With all eight boys on the field for a third time, it was always going to be a challenge. Rhymney came at Panthers early on, but the defensive skills of Greg Jones, a fantastic clearance by Luke Morgan, and some great saves by Nye Brown in goal kept the scoreboard at 0-0. Just seconds later, Sam Abbandonato knocked the ball into the back of the net, seeing Panthers a goal up. The blues responded with an equaliser and the pressure was on for Panthers. A great opportunity was taken by Toby Thomas and Panthers were ahead again. But the blues weren't hanging up their boots yet and came back with a second goal. The great work of Sam Gough, Alex Machon and Harry Solanot kept the pressure on the blues but just before the final whistle they sneaked through a third goal.
(Paula Abbandonato)
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Orange
The orange team and supporters made their way to Morganstown this winter's morning where our squad of eight battled away against three very tough teams....
Lisvane Orange v Radyr Rangers (1-4)
There's some history between these two sides - both finalists in the under 9s tournament this summer. While Radyr came out top that day, Panthers were certainly proud runners-up. Today they had another fierce game on the field....
Early advances by Radyr lead to a quick first goal by the home side. But fighting play by Toby Thomas brought the Oranges back into the game. Some formidable midfield work by Sam Abbandonato and Sam Gough with Luke Morgan and Greg Jones strong in defence kept the ball with the visitors. Just seconds later Toby whacked it into the back of the net making it 1-1. But the Rangers weren't backing down, and matched our equaliser with a second goal. No doubt there would have been another had it not been by some tough tackling by Harry Solanot.
The second half opened with a great shot at goal by Toby, but Radyr matched it with a more successful attempt. Despite valiant defensive work by Alex Machon and Luke Morgan with Nye Brown doing a great job as keeper, a fourth goal by the rangers sealed the game in their favour.
Lisvane Orange v Thornhill (0-1)
A cracking game of football opened with a great start by Panthers as Nye Brown and Sam Gough powered the ball up the field in the Oranges' favour. A well-timed pass by Panthers lead to a strike by Toby Thomas which nearly put our team on the scoreboard. But Thornhill saw their chance and took the ball back resulting in a quick goal. Panthers battled back immediately with Greg Jones heroically taking on a number of their attacking players. As the whistle for half time sounded, it was the excellent goal keeping skills of Sam Abbandonato that kept Panthers in the game. The second half saw some admirable efforts by the Oranges and a number of chances for both sides. Luke Morgan, Alex Machon and Harry Solanot made sure no more of Thornhill's attempts at goal found their way to the back of the net.
Lisvane Orange v St Albans (1-0)
With our team ready for action thanks to some encouraging talk by the coaches, Panthers sprinted on to the field ready for their first win of the morning. A strong looking St Albans side were always going to be tough opponents, but the Panthers (parent Panthers and grandparent Panthers) were hungry for goals....
Sam Gough showed his skills upfront with some cracking runs towards the St Albans' goal. Alex Machon worked equally hard in the Panthers net with a tremendous save early on. For Sam Abbandonato and Toby Thomas in midfield it was a tough game but they matched their opponents every step of the way. At half-time the 0-0 scoreboard was not an accurate reflection of a fabulously entertaining game.
The second 10 minutes saw Panthers take the lead with an inspiring shot at goal from Nye Brown. The nail-biting next minutes saw some determined defensive action by Harry Solanot, Luke Morgan and Greg Jones who stopped every one of the St Albans attacks with gusto.
Well played Panthers, a beautiful game!!
(Paula Abbandonato)
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Blacks
Hope’s were high that today’s set of fixtures would result in high quality exciting spectacles. The Blacks played all 3 opponents before in the season and have won against each side in close games.
Game 1 – Lisvane Blacks v Fairwater Colts
Lisvane made an excellent start with Josh making a run down the flank giving a perfect inside pass to Joe bursting through from midfield but his shot was blocked well. There was good interplay between the midfield trio of the Blacks to keep them on the front foot. Fairwater’s first attack was thwarted by Alex’s superb last ditch tackle. Mike controlled the right side of defence in the first half making it a no go area for the Colts attack.
H/T 0-0
Lisvane had an inspiring start to the 2nd half. Jack gave a quality pass down the line to Sam who skillfully took the ball around the defender passed to Josh whose shot was well saved by the Colt’s keeper. Fairwater made their first attack of the 2nd half almost perfect. They attacked the length of the field and it was only the brilliance of Ben in goal that stopped the Colt’s from scoring. Lisvane responded immediately. Josh threaded the perfect pass to Adam who duly dispatched the ball with a ferocious shot into the net. Well played by both teams.
Lisvane 1 Fairwater Colts O
Game 2 - Lisvane Blacks v Thornhill Athletic
William set up the first chance straight from the kick off. He made a searing break down the left gave an inside pass to Adam who passed back to Will but his shot was well saved. Again Lisvane attacked, a goal mouth scramble ended when Will shot wide. Time and again Thornhill’s attacks were thwarted by the outstanding play of the defensive duo of Joe and Matthew. Lewis consistently tracked back from midfield to help out the defence. Sam and Lewis combined well at a corner; the resulting cross was almost flicked in spectacularly by Jack. On the whistle for the end of the half Thornhill attacked and took the lead.
H/T 0 – 1
Time and again in the second half Josh made superb breaks down the right showing his dribbling skills but the Thornhill defence held firm. Mike intercepted well on ½ half way and gave a superb through ball to Josh but again Thornhill defended well. Credit must be given to Thornhill for holding onto their slender lead. This was an excellent game of football. Lisvane were very unlucky not to get anything out of it.
Lisvane 1 Thornhill 0
Game 3 Lisvane v Rhiwbina Dragons
We were looking forward to this game as the boys usually have close games against the Dragons.
The Dragons dominated the early exchanges and had chance after chance. Eventually Lisvane made their first foray into the Dragons half but Josh’s run out of defence came to nothing. Once again Dragons went on the attack. Sam made a superb save from a shot but could do nothing about the follow up. Rhiwbina took a deserved lead. Matthew made an outstanding tackle to stop a certain goal. Towards the end of the half Lisvane came back into it with Josh again coming close.
H/T 0-0
Lisvane started promisingly. Sam created a great chance with fantastic break and cutting pass but the shot was well saved. Rhiwbina responded well with their first attack of the half resulting in their second goal. Rhiwbina continued to attack and their 3rd soon followed. Lisvane were tiring now but Will came close with a shot that went narrowly wide. The Dragons rounded off a comprehensive win with their 4th to end the game. Full credit must go to Rhiwbina. Well done.
Lisvane 0 Rhiwbina Dragons 4
(Ian Davies)
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Orange
Invigorated by the Christmas break, Lisvane Panthers Orange returned to the football pitch in 2006 rearing to go. Here’s how they got on at Splott...
Lisvane Orange v Splott (3-0)
The first fixture of the morning saw the Oranges up against the home side. The initial 15 minutes flew by swiftly with some creative play resulting in a 2-0 scoreline in Panthers’ favour. It would have been 2-1 had it not been for a brave save by Sam Abbandonato wearing the goalie’s vest.
Back on the field for the second fifteen minutes, Panthers still had plenty to offer. Some great attacking play saw Alex Machon dribble around two of his opponents towards the Splott goal. This was quickly followed by some impressive defensive action by Connor Martin, which lead to a cracking shot at goal by Toby Thomas. Just when Splott thought they were back in the game, some skilful defensive work by Greg Jones allowed Toby the chance he needed to make it 3-0. Fighting play by Sam Gough, backed up by the solid defensive actions of Harry Solanot and Luke Morgan kept the ball with the visitors allowing Nye Brown several more attempts at goal.
Lisvane Panthers v Marlborough Reds (1-3)
The second game of the morning saw Panthers up against the skilful outfit of Marlborough Reds. Panthers took the initiative early on with Nye Brown and Sam Gough putting the pressure on the opposing team. A nice save by Alex Machon kept it at 0-0 but the Reds took their chance and soon put the ball in the back of our net. Panthers battled on with some great teamwork between the two Sams, Nye and Toby, which lead to our equaliser, courtesy of Sam Gough.
The second half resulted in an early goal by the reds but strong play by Connor Martin and Greg Jones kept Panthers in the game. A free kick by Sam G and heroic defence by Harry Solanot and Luke Morgan gave Panthers a few more opportunities but it was not to be as the reds managed a third goal to seal the game in their favour.
Lisvane Orange v Lisvane Blue (6-0)
The last game of the morning saw Oranges up against the brand new Lisvane Blue. Oranges dominated the game against the young blues team, which showed lots of potential. Our veteran players pulled out all the stops for this match and saw Connor Martin, Toby Thomas and Alex Machon notch up five goals between them.
It was a special game for Luke Morgan too, who enjoyed his first goal in an orange jersey.
Thanks to a solid performance by Sam Abbandonato, Greg Jones and Harry Solanot, the new team didn’t manage to get the ball past a determined Nye Brown in goal.
But make the most of it Oranges, that Blues team is one to watch…..!
(Paula Abbandonato)
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Blacks
On a bitterly cold day the boys were up against some quality opposition. We were all eagerly anticipating how they would respond to the tough games that lay in store.
Lisvane Black 1 (Josh) v Thornhill 2
This was a test against a ‘very serious and professional outfit’. Thornhill were the first to attack but Matthew did well to prevent it amounting to anything. The opening half was a balanced affair with most of the action around the half way line. The Blacks first attack was straight off the training field. Sam made a strong run up field where Jack took over and gave a superb through ball to Josh who set up Lewis for the first strike on goal which was well saved. Thornhill took the lead with a fluke own goal but this was probably a deserved lead. The Blacks responded really well. Josh with his back to goal narrowly shot wide. Adam worked tirelessly in midfield they chased and tackled everything. Thornhill hit the post at the end of the half but the Blacks managed to clear.
The second half started well. Josh had a run down the right but the ball just wouldn’t sit right and the attack came to nothing. Defensively the boys were superb. Time and again Joe made the all important tackles. Sam kept their most dangerous player quiet throughout the second period. Thornhill scored again. The Blacks did not lose heart. To their credit they responded immediately with Josh cracking a shot in the bottom corner.
Both teams played really well.
Lisvane Black 0 v Radyr Rangers 2
This was always going to be a difficult game against probably the best side at this level. The Blacks took the game to Radyr in the opening minutes. Josh slotted the ball through to Lewis whose shot was brilliantly saved. Radyr opened the scoring with one of the best goals of the season leaving Ben with no chance. Soon after Ben made a sharp save at the near post. Just before the end of the half Radyr scored again.
The second half opened with the Blacks on the attack again. An excellent shot from Sam went narrowly wide – this would have given the boys a much deserved goal. The second half was far more competitive. Well done the Blacks. This was one of the best performances of the season.
Lisvane Black 0 Rhiwbina Dragons 0
The panthers made a great start. Jack and Sam chased and harried the ball and made their defence really nervous. Excellent corner resulted in a goal mouth scramble but the Dragons keeper did well to hold on. It was then Josh’s turn to worry their defence. He made a great run down the right and his shot produced a superb save. Time after time the Blacks attacked, surely a goal would come soon. Joe was superb in defence and dealt with everything the Dragons threw at him. Right at the death Rhiwbina had their first chance but Adam made a superb save to deny them what looked like a certain goal.
The boys have to be congratulated on their effort in all 3 games today. The weather was bitterly cold but they all remained focused and tried hard. I am sure there will be some big wins next week.
Lisvane Panthers Orange Under 9s
This Saturday saw Panthers at home in Court Field against their three opponents:
Fairwater Red, Fairwater Blue and Heol Hir. A couple of men short, there was no room for subs so it was always going to be a tough test for the boys in orange...
Lisvane Orange v Fairwater Red (0-2)Panthers were in a buoyant mood as they took to the field, which resulted in some great team play, particularly the midfield passing between Sam Gough and Greg Jones. The Reds matched them though, and notched up the first goal of the morning, Panthers retaliated with a good defensive display by Luke Morgan and Harry Solanot which moved the ball back up the field to give Connor Martin a shot at goal. Sadly the goal didn’t come but Alex Machon impressed the crowd with some skilful footwork. The Reds weren’t backing down though and soon it was 2-0 to Fairwater.
The second half saw some snappy play by Panthers as they fought to get back in the game. With Sam Abbandonato strong in defence and Nye Brown pacy up front, the Reds couldn’t keep the ball for long. A good strike at goal by Sam Gough narrowly missed and shortly after the final whistle blew.
Lisvane Orange v Fairwater Blue (3-1)
Spurred on by the earlier result, Panthers weren’t allowing Fairwater a second win of the morning. Some tight defensive action between Luke Morgan and Harry Solanot made mince-meat of the Blues first attempts at goal. Nye Brown matched the pace upfront and thanks to Connor Martin’s quick thinking the ball stayed with the home side. A well-timed pass from Sam Abbandonato to Nye set up Panthers’ first goal of the morning. Just minutes later Harry Solanot saw his chance and with a cracking shot made it 2-0.
The second half saw Panthers at their best with some brilliant play by Sam Gough, Connor Martin and Greg Jones which gave Sam Abbandonato the pass he needed to boot the ball to the back of the net. 3-0 up Panthers were in good form which was only momentarily lost when the Blues managed their only goal.
Lisvane Orange v Heol Hir (1-2)
The last game of the morning saw a now freezing Panthers side draw on their last reserves of energy to battle it out against Heol Hir. Supported by Harry Solanot and Luke Morgan in defense, Sam Abbandonato did a brave job in goal but the Reds were too quick and were soon on the scoreboard a couple of goals ahead.
In the second half it was over to Sam Gough to get a goal for Panthers. Backed up by Greg, Alex, Connor and Nye his determined play gave him the chance to score a cracking goal. Heol Hir responded but thanks to Alex Machon in the goalie’s vest for the last 10 minutes nothing more came of their attacking play.
(Paula Abbandonato)
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Blacks
Today was the opportunity for the Blacks to turn their great performances from last week into good wins this week. It was to be an eventful and very entertaining morning against 3 very evenly matched teams.
Lisvane Blacks v Heol Hir Glas (2 – 0)
The Blacks went straight onto the attack. Josh came incredibly close to scoring as he got on the end of a speculative shot from Adam but the keeper made a good save with his feet. Blacks dealt comfortably with Heol Hirs 1st attack. Joe as ever was very solid at the back. It was great to see Jack working hard in midfield and constantly looking to pass the ball to the front men. Adam had a great run down the right showing off his silky skills but the attack came to nothing. Joe had a long range shot which went narrowly wide. Heol Hir attacked up field and looked destined to score but Ben somehow managed to make 4 saves in quick succession – it was probably the best save anyone has ever witnessed. Adam almost scored at the end of the half but just couldn’t get onto the end of Josh’s pass with the goalie beaten. Surely the second half couldn’t be as good.
Again at the start of the half it was the Blacks that came closest to scoring but Josh’s effort hit the side netting. Perseverance paid off for Josh a minute later as he put the ball away after having his 1st 3 efforts saved. This was a thoroughly well deserved lead. Heol Hir attacked late on but the defence held firm. Josh came close again. Sam turned sharply and shot from distance but the ball went narrowly over the bar. Right at the end Josh managed to slip the ball in at the near post from an incredibly tight angle. The final whistle went to end a fantastic game which the Blacks deservedly won 2- 0.
Lisvane Blacks v Thornhill Blue (1 – 1)
We always have a close game against Thornhill and this proved to be no different. Right from the kick off William and Josh linked well weaving their way through the Thornhill defence. Josh’s shot was really well saved. Matthew controlled the left side – he not only tackled well but also looked to pass at every opportunity. This performance was really turning into a whole team effort. Midway through the half Jack came close to scoring but his shot went narrowly wide. Towards the end of the half Thornhill came close to scoring with a couple of efforts on goal. Nevertheless, the Blacks were certainly on top. Sam was strong on the ball and put a shot from distance wide. Confidence was building. Unfortunately, Thornhill attacked up field Ben magnificently saved a shot but the rebound was put away to give Thornhill an undeserved lead. The panthers responded, Sam made an excellent run and passed the ball through to Josh who calmly rounded the keeper and dispatched the ball in bottom corner. Lisvane continued to attack – Josh’s stinging shot was superbly tipped over. Jack teed the ball up well for Adam whose shot was well saved. Jack came close after a great through ball from Matthew. This was one of the most entertaining games of the season. Well done boys.
Lisvane Blacks v Heol Hir Wyn (1 – 4)
It was end to end stuff at the start of the game. Michael was strong on the right in defence as was Matthew on the left. The blacks had the first clear cut chance when Josh ran through the defence but his shot was well saved by the keeper. Jack did well to control the ball on half way, he had an attempt on goal which Josh managed to put in the net from a rebound. Heol Hir scored from their first attack and soon after scored again. On their 3rd venture into the Blacks half they scored again when the boys failed to clear the ball. They were very unlucky to go in at the break 3 – 1 down. Pressure came almost exclusively from the Blacks in the second half. Time after time they attacked but failed to score. Heol Hir finished strongly Adam made a fantastic save but again they put away the rebound to complete a 4 – 1 win.
Lisvane Panthers Orange Under 9s
Lisvane Oranges v Lisvane BluesThe first half was a tale of all-out attack by the Oranges and some stout defending by the recently formed Blues. Sam Gough, Sam Abbandanato, Toby, Nye and Harry passed the ball about with some neat skill and despite being rewarded with corners and a few shots at goal the Blues held out well. The break came with a pass by Toby and some clinical finishing by Nye. Soon after we had some excellent passing between Sam G and Harry with Nye getting the ball into the net. Greg swapped goalie position with Sam A and got straight into the action with a shot just over the crossbar. A fine pass by Toby saw Harry crash the ball against the crossbar with Greg being on-hand to scramble the ball into the net. The Blues then came on strong with a number of forays into the Orange’s half where Luke and Thomas did some sterling defending and we saw some good keeping by Sam A to keep the Oranges with a clean sheet.
FINAL SCORE 3-0
Lisvane Oranges v Rhymney
A bright start by the Oranges with much midfield passing and tackling. The two teams are well-matched and there’s plenty of end-to-end play and shots at goal. Then a lay-off from Sam A let Toby score a scorcher of a shot. Some more good play sees shots form Nye, Sam A and Sam G but with no goal. Rhymney come back strong and a powerful shot sees them level. There’s more attacking play from Rhumney but no further score at half time.
The second half sees some great end-to-end play with Harry, Sam G, Sam A, Toby and Nye having shots at goal with good supporting play from Greg in midfield. The defenders also have a lot to do with some brave work by Thomas, Luke and Greg and excellent keeping by Harry. A nail-biting end but a well-fought draw.
FINAL SCORE 1-1
Lisvane Oranges v Rhiwbina Dragons
Some tired legs on the Oranges saw the Dragons take a 2-0 lead by half-time with some clever play and passing by the Dragon’s forwards.
A bright start to the second half but Dragons score on the break-away. Some tight defending by Thomas and Harry is followed up by great passing between Toby, Nye, Greg, Sam A and finally to Sam G who nets. Some good midfield work by Greg lets Sam G have a shot, but it goes wide. Then a pass from Toby lets Nye in to score a well-worked goal. A few more attacks by the Oranges but unfortunately time is not on their side.
FINAL SCORE 2-3
(Pete Jones)
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Orange
Lisvane Orange Under 9 went down the road to Cefn Onn School this weekend and found themselves up against Fairwater, Radyr and Heol Hir.
Lisvane Orange v Fairwater (0-1)
The first game of the morning saw Harry Solanot do a worthy job in goal backed up by Connor Martin, Luke Morgan and Thomas Smart in defence. The first half kept them very busy as Fairwater’s sustained attacks saw much of the play in the Panthers’ half. Despite a couple of strikes at goal by Nye Brown, then Sam Gough with the help of Toby Thomas, the first half ended with an empty scoreboard.
The last 10 minutes was much faster with all the players on the field fighting for the ball. Panthers’ opponents saw their chance though and went a goal up. Despite the good midfield work of Sam Abbandonato, there was little Panthers could do to get back in the game.
Lisvane Orange v Radyr (2-0)
Spurred on by the earlier score, a much more determined Panthers side stood up against Radyr. The team started strong with a great run by Toby Thomas. Just seconds later the dynamic duo of Nye Brown and Sam Abbandonato moved Panthers towards their opponents’ goal. Here Harry Solanot saw his chance and moved in for Panthers’ allowing Toby to get Orange’s first goal of the morning. Luke Morgan and Thomas Smart defended our lead admirably while none of Radyr’s attempts at goal made it passed Connor Martin.
Going into the second half one nil up, Sam Gough took on the goalie’s role, but it was the sustained attacking of the boys in orange that gave Nye the opportunity he needed to made it 2-0. A great win Panthers!
Lisvane Orange v Heol Hir (2-3)
One of the most passionate games of the season saw Lisvane Orange up against Heol Hir. A good opening by the boys in red saw them go two goals up against Panthers within minutes, but our U9s weren’t backing down. With Luke Morgan and Thomas Smart to back him up, Connor Martin kept his head and drove the ball back towards the Heol Hir goal.
The second half saw Panthers bounce back with a real desire to win. Quick thinking by Sam Abbandonato in midfield gave way to a clever pass to Toby Thomas. Toby quickly passed it to Sam Gough whose swift action allowed Nye Brown to score Panthers’ first goal of the game. Now back in the match, the Panthers’ side moved up a gear. With fire in their bellies, it wasn’t long before Toby booted the ball into the back of the Reds’ net to make it 2-2. Harry continued to defend well, and it would have been a draw had the Reds not managed to slip the ball passed Panthers for a final time.
Great game!
(Paula Abbandonato)
Saturday 18th March 2006
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Blacks
Marlborough
All the play came from the Panthers in the opening few minutes. Sam knocked the ball on to Josh who came close with the first effort on goal. From the resulting corner Josh hit the post. The Panthers took a deserved lead when Ben used the wind to his advantage with a great goal kick upfield through to Josh who put the ball away in the bottom corner. Chance after chance followed with Adam coming really close to doubling the lead. The Blacks defence was outstanding. As usual Joe was excellent in defence. Unfortunately the strong wind scored an equalizer early in the second half for Marlborough.
Using the wind to their advantage in the second half Marlborough attacked - a long shot was well tipped over by Ben. Josh showed his silky skills to set up a great chance for Michael but his shot was saved. Ben managed to keep the score level as he made a superb save from a long shot. With the last move of the game the ball was threaded through to Josh who had the keeper to beat. In fairness the keeper made an outstanding save but Josh put the rebound in the net. A well deserved win.
Blacks 2 – 1 Marlborough
Pentyrch Rangers
This was a very balanced opening half with the wind getting the better of both teams. Towards the end of the first half Adam and Lewis worked well and Lewis’ shot squirted under the keeper to open the scoring. Jack then intercepted the ball in defence and gave an inch perfect long ball through to Adam who put the ball neatly in the bottom corner.
In the second half it was all out attack from the Panthers. Josh took on two defenders and shot from distance. The ball beat the keeper – a must for goal of the season!! The team continued to work well. Matthew tackled well and his through ball found Lewis who calmly passed the ball to Josh who scored again. Pentyrch responded well with a well taken consolation goal
Blacks 4 – 1 Pentyrch
Maindy Corries
This was a real clash of the titans. Maindy began on the attack with a series of corners that amounted to nothing. The Blacks responded with Adam coming really close with a shot that went narrowly wide. Josh and Adam were working really well upfront but their efforts came to nothing.
With Sam in goal his goal kick split their defence but Adam’s shot went narrowly wide. The Maindy Corries kept the rampant Blacks at bay time and again. Neither side could score in an entertaining game between two committed sides.
Blacks 0 – 0 Maindy Corries
The boys played really well today. They continue to improve week by week. Bring on the Oranges next week!!!!!
Lisvane Panthers Under 9 Orange
Lisvane Orange v Heol Hir (0-1)
With Luke Morgan trying out a new role in goal, the Panthers team fought a very tough first half against the Reds of Heol Hir. It was an equally matched 10 minutes with a busy performance from both sides. Despite a great shot from Nye Brown (in his luminous hat) and some super passing between Sam Gough and Toby Thomas, the Panthers couldn’t muster a goal. Thanks to Greg Jones in the centre, along with Thomas and Harry in defence, it looked like their opponents would not find themselves on the scoreboard either. It was 0-0 when the half time whistle blew.
The second half saw Luke rising to the goalie’s role with some good saves. Sam Abbandonato and Alex Machon played well too and the crowd were impressed with Harry Solanot’s charge towards the Heol Hir goal. Just when we thought it was going our way, the Reds managed to find the back of our net. Just minutes later, our ref called time and it was too late for Panthers to make amends.
Lisvane Orange v Llanederyn Bulldogs (1-3)
With temperatures dropping close to freezing (or so it seemed) and the wind high, Panthers returned to the pitch for their toughest game of the morning.
With Sam Gough now in goal and Harry Solanot supporting him well in defence, the boys soldiered on to keep up with an impressive Llanederyn side who were very soon 1-0 ahead. Not to be beaten down, the midfield determination of Toby Thomas coupled with Greg Jones and Sam Abbandonato, lead to a cracking shot at goal by Nye (still in the luminous hat) and it was level pegging at half time.
The start of the second half caught Panthers unaware and very shortly the greens had notched up another two goals. Determined not to allow their opponents any more celebrations, Alex Machon, Luke Morgan and Thomas Smart rose to the occasion and defended admirably for the remainder of the game.
Lisvane Orange v Thornhill (1-0)
With the weather really beginning to take its toll on all the players (and parents!), the final game of the morning led to Panthers’ first win of the day.
The first half saw our Oranges attack, attack, attack. A number of shots at goal (particularly one by Harry Solanot which hit the bar) could have lead to a cracking score line in Panthers’ favour – but it was only Nye Brown (still in the luminous hat) who managed to find the back of the net.
Their brave performance took no hostages, and try as they might, the Thornhill team couldn’t get past a cold but determined Panthers side.
Well played to all – Sam A, Sam G, Luke, Toby, Alex, Harry, Thomas, Greg and Nye The Hat!
(Paula Abbandonato)