Lisvane Panthers Under 16
2009/2010 season
Lisvane Panthers have 2 teams at Under 16 level - U16A and U16B
Lisvane Panthers Under 16A
Annual Reports
Under 16 A 2009/2010
Two words stand out for me this season, our last season together in junior football, ‘team’ and ‘proud’.
Team – I have had the pleasure for the last ten years to coach most of the boys with new additions coming from various clubs which has made up our side.
This season we became a ‘Team’. A team that trained together, played together, lost, drew and won together.
Everyone had their own place, knew it, worked for it, challenged for it but knew how to work with the man behind him, next to him, and in front of him, they worked as a team.
The side became a team and as a coach it is what we all strive for and it made my season and theirs and they all know it!
Proud – The boys (young men) should be proud of the first achievement, becoming a team.
They should be proud of their other achievements too. Putting on the Panthers jersey and playing for their club.
Their behaviour win, lose or draw. Their own individual commitment however big or small to the team.
Their attitude to the decisions as managers we have to make as to who plays and who doesn’t, who gets subbed and who gets left on the bench, not one complaint from anyone of them all season.
Their own conduct is something that they, their parents, the club and as their manager should all be proud of.
Their results speak for themselves finishing 3rd in the A league and being winners of the Under 16 Cardiff & District W Headon Cup something we should all be proud of.
I will write it here and say it to them as a team, and as individuals I am proud of what they have achieved and to have coached them this season and for the last 10 years I am proud of what they have done and they should be proud of themselves, well done team!
I have so many people to thank for the last ten years of coaching, the boys for putting up with me, the parents for their support, the club itself for the unrelenting support and commitment, Rob King for being our team referee and Jonathan Bould for being the teams assistant manager without who we wouldn’t have a managed side, thank you all.
The only way is up boys!!
Dave Williams and Jonathan Bould
Under 16 B 2009/2010
After a bit of wheeling and dealing in the late summer transfer market we managed to attract two new key players in Ryan “Delap” Leonard and Tom “The cat” Humphries (U15 keeper) and yet still managed to fend off overtures made to our other key players whom we agreed new and improved contracts with.
We reminded them once a Panther always a Panther!!! The striker “Big Joe” from Danescourt was nearly a done deal and the coup of the season but at the eleventh hour he unfortunately went to Cogan Corries.
Trials again took place for the Cardiff Schools and FAW Cardiff Academy squads and with fierce competition both Tom Humphries and Rhys Williams were selected from our squad. Well done!!!
Our Annual interclub Cup game against the Lisvane Panthers “A” side was a great prerequisite for our season to come as we showed that our previous 2-1 win was not a one off as we came back from 4-2 down to win 7-5.
A notable first goal for Joe Gooding gave him a Cheshire cat smile that lasted for the whole weekend.
This I am sure gave the “A” squad the desire to go on and have their best season to date winning the under 16’s Cup and finishing a very credible third in the “A” Division. Well done lads, all at Lisvane Panthers are proud of you!!!
With our 17 players in place we were ready to take on all comers and fancied our chances of winning the league.
With some morale boosting wins and good representation in pre-season tournaments these Panthers were ready to roll.
The hard and gruelling fitness work was soon to be paying off with a great start to the season winning five out of our first six games in the first month.
That one loss (7-5) was to the eventual Champions Canton Rangers in what was one of the best games of football you would ever wish to see.
During this time all of the Lisvane Panthers under 16’s were invited to be ball boys and flag bearers at the prestigious game of Wales V Russia held at the Millennium Stadium.
This proved to be great PR for Lisvane Panthers and was thoroughly enjoyed by all of us who attended.
With mixed fortunes in October we won two and lost two games but then quickly followed that blip up with a win in November and a little bit of a Cup run.
A break followed with constant cancellation of games until mid-January due to the poor weather.
We had however by then made a very important central midfield signing. Deelan King, from our local rivals Whitchurch, proved to be a great and inspirational signing for the second part of our season and our push for the title. His tenacity and skills were infectious and spurred us all on.
In mid-January we met a Trowbridge side in the Cup and after gaining a credible 1-1 draw we eventually lost to them in extra time.
The poor weather continued until early March, but then came our newly sponsored kit purchased by Andy and Jayne Hodge to give the whole squad a much-needed lift.
We went on a four game winning streak that put us in strong contention to win our League.
With the last week of the season upon us in April we needed to win our last two games to win the League but these were to be against our top four rivals.
The tension mounted as Chris HJ unfortunately had work commitments and some schools decided to have an all day rugby sevens competition on the very day of our allimportant title deciding game.
In the blistering heat Lisvane battled away but unfortunately lost to a good Ely Rangers side.
This made our last game on the Saturday against Canton Rangers irrelevant and with a bit of a hangover from Wednesday’s disappointment we lost again, all be it to very worthy Champions.
With the season now over, we can look back with pride. We still attained a very credible fourth position in the league, had a good cup run, had our first brand new kit (thanks to the great generosity of Andy and Jayne), rubbed shoulders with the likes of Bellamy and Arshavin at the Millennium Stadium and were noted by our opponents for playing some very entertaining football during the course of this season.
Nearly forgot! We retained the Lisvane Interclub Cup.
Special thanks go to Pete Cartwright, Nick Hill and Steve Slocombe for their diligent refereeing over the years. Chris Hughes- Jones, Dave Farrell, Simon Williams and other parents who have helped with setting up our nets and pitches over our many years together, Marie and Peter O’Brien for their tireless efforts in running our U16B admin/finances and Panthers website and Andy and Jayne Hodge for their kind sponsorship of our recently purchased new kit.
Our time together from under 8’s minis through to under 16’s juniors has been memorable and with nine of the players still playing in the “B” side from Giles’s original under 8’s and three playing in the “A” side it is testament to Arthur’s ethos and proves that Lisvane Panthers is the best club in South Wales.
Under 16B Squad for 2009-2010:
Tom Humphries (GK): Has thrived this season playing a year up (U15). A Cardiff Schools goalkeeper who has fitted in well with his teammates and who has shown what a great shot stopper he is. Tom has pulled off some fine match-winning saves for us this Season and has performed well when called upon to do so.
Dan Jones (GK & CB): He has made some top saves during the season and plays in goals when Tom is out injured or is at a Cardiff Schools games. Equally brave, strong and tenacious at centre back as he is in goals Dan is also blessed with pace and rarely misses a tackle. He has pulled off some great last-ditch tackles this year and rarely gets beaten for pace.
Ryan Farrell (CB & GK): He worked very hard on his pre- Season fitness this year and it has paid off for him. This has been his best season to date and has led to him becoming captain. He always gives a 110%, shows leadership on the pitch and wants to win. His agility, strength and fitness have been key to him scoring a few match winning goals this season notably with his head from set plays and corners. He is one of our longserving players who originally played a year up for John Heard at minis before coming into our “B” side.
Ryan Pugsley (RB): A tenacious wing back who’s strong in the tackle yet links well going forward with his silky skills. He has created many assists this season yet he is still effective defensively. Ryan scored what must be one of the goals of the season. He hit a scorching 40-yard strike that curled away from the keeper and dipped into the angle of the posts. His smile said it all as it lasted all weekend!!!
Sam Williams (CB): He was a rock in defence as always. He rarely looses out aerially and shows great strength in the tackle. Sam has scored this season and also captains the side sometimes. He very rarely got a chance in central midfield this year but when he did he played really well. Sam can strike a ball with great velocity when he connects with it and links well with his fellow players. He is one of our long-serving original under 8’s players.
Shaun Dunphy (CB & FB): He has missed part of the season due to injury etc but when he plays he always gives his all. A strong defender who again is blessed with pace and is not afraid to get forward when the opportunity arises. He is tenacious and not afraid to put his foot in when it matters most.
James Cartwright (LB): A midfielder who now plays for us at left back. He is a good link player who gets forward to create opportunities for his teammates and yet still pops up with a couple of goals a season himself. James does the simple things and is always aware of space on the pitch. He is a player who doesn’t panic on the ball and is always available for his teammates. He is one of our long-serving players who originally played a year up for John Heard at minis before coming into our “B” side.
Dave Slocombe (RM & CM): He has been with us a couple of seasons now and has been a great acquisition for our side. He is a good crosser of the ball; he is creative and links well with his strikers. Dave is probably one of the most skilful players I’ve seen and what he lacks in size he more than makes up for in ability. He hasn’t had his growth spurt yet so no doubt he will become an even better player when he is bigger and stronger. His set plays and free kicks have got him a number of goals and rave reviews this year. He is also our cool penalty taker.
Josh Hughes Jones (CM & LM): He was our most improved player last season and has continued that this season with his clever play, skills and eye for a pass. Josh is the creative part of our midfield and makes everything tick. His set plays and free kicks have seen him score many a spectacular goal or put in an inch perfect ball for one of his teammates to score. He can go down a bit easily when shoved but he gets you lots of free kicks in dangerous positions when doing so. He is one of our long-serving original under 8’s players.
Ryan Leonard (CM): He has only been with us a couple of seasons but is a great asset to have. He is huge in stature and possesses a lethal thunderbolt of a shot. Ryan has scored a few goals this season which have been 40 yard strikes that have nearly broken the net and the goalkeeper (if he is dumb enough to try and stop it). Ryan can tackle, wins everything in the air and possesses a “Rory Delap” type throw in that easily makes the box every time he launches it. This is a nice surprise for teams who don’t know about his secret weapon.
Deelan King (CM): He only joined us just before Christmas after leaving Whitchurch in the “A” League. He is as strong as an ox and takes no prisoners with his tenacious and tough tackling. He is a winner and this spreads amongst the team when he plays, He does the simple holding job in midfield and allows the others to spring the attacks forward from his break up play. He has given us a bit of bite in midfield that we previously lacked. He is a great addition to our Squad.
James Trott (CM): Unfortunately he has missed quite a lot of games this season but when he has played he has done a great job for us. He has a nice touch and an eye for a pass. He can tackle and holds the ball up well. His link play is good and has had a few assists this season.
Rhys Williams (LM & LB): He has developed into a cultured and skilful player over the seasons. He broke into Cardiff Schools as well as FAW as a left wing back recently and plays in the same side as Tom the goalkeeper. He is a good crosser of the ball; he is creative and links well with his strikers. Rhys is probably one of the most skilful players I’ve seen and what he lacks in height he more than makes up for in ability. Rhys scores you many goals and is a real handful to mark. He can go down a bit easily when shoved but he gets you lots of free kicks in dangerous positions when doing so. He is one of our longserving original under 8’s players.
Nicky Jackson (Striker): He can play as an out-and-out striker or as a winger. He is skilful, has a great burst of pace and is not afraid to take people on. Nicky has scored many goals this season but isn’t a typically greedy striker so has also had many assists. He takes a great corner and has scored a few goals directly from them. He has good awareness and is a team player that can use both feet when required to do so. He is one of our long-serving original under 8’s players.
Sean O’Brien (Striker): He is a good striker that scores many goals each season. He usually ends up our top goal scorer. His goals are very varied and he will take people on. He is quite strong and skilful but tends to be very direct if he can see the chance of an opening to score a goal. He links well with his fellow players and can hold the ball up when needed to do so. He is one of our long-serving original under 8’s players.
James Hodge (Utility striker): He has many attributes to his game and can play equally as well as a full back using his strength and pace as he can as a winger. He can play the strikers role and doesn’t fear anybody however big and loud that they are. James has scored many goals this season coming off the bench and even scored a notable hat trick in the one game he played. He is a team player who links well going forward. He is one of our long-serving original under 8’s players.
Joe Gooding (Utility): Joe is our super-sub who has progressed well in our team. He will play anywhere you ask him to and as long as you communicate with him he will do you a job. He trains hard and very rarely misses the sessions or the games. His best moment was in the Cup against our “A” team when he scored. His smile was like a Cheshire cat and it lasted the whole weekend.
Zach Hill (Utility): He started the season well but then was injured for a while so did not end up playing a lot for us this year. He is another defender but he can also play in midfield. He will always give you a 100% when he plays and will always do a job for you and the team. He can tackle, is strong and does the simple no nonsense things when put under pressure. He is one of our long-serving original under 8’s players.
For those of you who are carrying on into youth football we look forward to seeing you in the late summer for preseason training. Thank you for your loyal service and support over the years. I hope you have enjoyed your time with the best club in South Wales.
Have a great summer and enjoy the World Cup!!!
Chris Hughes-Jones, Chris Jackson and Peter Cartwright
| 2009 | 2010 | |
| September | January | |
| October | February | |
| November | March | |
| December | April | |
| May | ||
It seemed as though everyone had taken later hols this year as numbers for pre-season were well down.
But on 24 August, those who were available dusted off the boots and the dreaded 300m interval running commenced.
Hats off to the Drury M and Fenton A pairing, who recorded the fastest lap of 54 seconds, closely followed at 55' by Brown B and Harris D, and Jenkins R and Lawson W at 56'.
In the end only one pre-season friendly was possible against the 'B's, who performed well to win 6-5 during an absolute downpour. Hinchly C being the pick for us with a hat trick.
Final training being spent on the 5 a-side astroturf of the PowerLeague complex.
And so preparations were complete as they could be, as the gang embarked on their 10th and final adventure that is Saturday morning junior football (or are we really just a branch of the West Ham supporters appreciation society!).
Just 20 league matches plus (hopefully 5) cup games to go before the GCSEs and then...
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 4 - AFC Whitchurch Blues: 1
Venue: Gliderfield
HT (1 - 0)
Firstly, all our best wishes for a speedy recovery to Williams H - Harry having being hospitalised with a very nasty virus, which means he'll be out until November.
In the meantime, Moore J (when not on Blues rugby duty) and Brown B will have plenty of opportunity to keep their hands warm between the sticks.
Match one proved to be a sporting and and evenly contested game against last year's 'B' division winners, who were a solid outfit.
The first half was very tight until Lawson W lept off the bench and crossed for Joyce J to score after 30 minutes.
Will then struck on the hour to secure control. However, we wilted a little and were in danger of throwing it away when Whitchurch scored and had a strong penalty appeal turned down.
Fortunately, further excellent work by Will enabled Calliva A and Gurney R to seal things.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Trowbridge: 4 - Lisvane Panthers A: 4
Venue: St Mellons
HT (2 - 1)
To have played as poorly as this, be 2-4 down with ten minutes to go against an average team, but pull out a draw leads to confused conclusion!
Perhaps, we're doing Trowbridge a disservice, as they got stuck in, won the majority of the tackles and were feisty.
In fact everything we weren't, apart from Cox C - although even Chris doesn't appreciate being punched by a spectator whilst the game is in progress!. Yes, it was an edgy atmosphere as the locals became excitable in this picturesque part of town.
All that said, injuries have certainly disrupted the team's pattern - Hinchly C, Brown B and Jenkins R all suffering from muscle strains.
Meanwhile, we did actually score 4 goals; two from Bould A including a classic freekick and the equalising penalty; plus quality finishes from Joyce J and Calliva A.
The confusion was then complete when deep into injury time, Alessandro 'scored', the goal was given, only for the linesman to flag for a handball and the referee to strike it off.
Yes, it was one of those evenings.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Fairwater Juniors: 5 - Lisvane Panthers A: 0
Venue: Poplar Park
HT (0 - 0)
With an injury and illness plague, it was just a bare Williams' Eleven who were available. To add to the woes, that even included Payne D, who had fallen down the stairs at school and couldn't run.
Talk about groundhog day! So a big well done to Dan, who volunteered to play in goal and then proceeded to put in a great performance. Even so, we really want to see him back on those flying full-back overlaps.
Apart from one fine Lawson W run and shot, we weren't able to muster up much of a goal threat, but everyone put in a commendable effort, particularly in the first half.
This included a very committed performance at right back from Hinchly C.
Apart from seeing off Prentice M by half time, he then had to mark a Cardiff City Academy player in the second half, who also got no change from him. Keep it up Chris!
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Urdd: 1 - Lisvane Panthers A: 3
Venue: Pontcanna Fields
HT (1 - 1)
At least we had 14 players available today after last week's despair of being unable to field a team for the only time in 10 seasons.
And it was like old times too against our competitive rivals from mini days... Return of the Urdd to the galaxy known as Pontcanna - the long awaited restoration of which was looking good following the inter-planetary Eisteddfod of 2008.
Fortunately, the startroopers known as Jenkins R, Cox C and Hinchly C, in particular, followed Emporer Williams' orders well with their defensive forcefield.
In truth though, it wasn't a classic, as once again in the first half we lacked the 'get stuck in mentality' of our opponents - despite what could be our quickest ever goal from Calliva A on about 70 seconds.
After half time though, we eventually rediscovered some zest and for about 15 minutes played enough cohesive football to pull away.
In that period Lawson W was to the fore and Joyce J and Gurney R grabbed the winning goals.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Llanedeyrn Bulldogs: 2 - Lisvane Panthers A: 3
Venue: Llanedeyrn High School
HT (0 - 2)
A return to another of those 'not been there for five years' venues of mini footy yore. A newly relaid pitch, albeit on quite a slope provided a decent game and a great effort to win against the top of the table and previously unbeaten Bulldogs, which pushed us upto third place.
It was also good to see the club Chairman, Dave North, spectating in case his 'intermediary services' were needed!
Pleasingly they weren't, but he would have been impressed by the first half performance particularly, where Davies S played his best game for some time at left back - well done Steve - to support goals from Joyce J and Bould A.
The second half was back to the wall stuff at times, but there was an alround show of resilience, exemplified by some authoritative 'keeping from Moore J. Squad availability never seems to be without its dramas these days either - only 13 there today after the pre match injury curse struck again.
Meanwhile, Gurney R even broke down on the motorway (something about a 1998 Fiesta, named after punk Icon, Siouxsie Sioux...) and had to be relayed by Harris N!
However, Rowan eventually arrived for the second half and provided the assist for Alex B to score again - 'uphill'..
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 7 - Pentyrch Rangers: 1
Venue: Gliderfield
HT (2 - 0)
The lovely autumn weather continued and at risk of eulogising too much, the boys matched it with some equally fine play.
That said, the game was very competitive for the first 55 minutes, as Pentyrch were their normal awkward selves and pulled it back to 2-1, and one wondered.
However, the reaction was impressive, as we rattled in a further five goals.
Lawson W led the charge with a hat-trick, with support from Joyce J (2) and Calliva A; plus the champagne moment, which brought about the biggest cheer of the day, as Davies S's cross-shot from 20 yards sailed over the keeper.
The real question though for Steve is this. All of your favourite teams - Panthers, Spurs and Cardiff - were in third place after Saturday's matches.
But which one will maintain that position through the season, if any? Not quite fantasy football but worthy of opening a book?
In the meantime, its two free Saturdays over half term, as most of the LHS gang hit New York for the trip of a lifetime.
With a couple of matches against Rough Riders and Cosmo, they'll hopefully come back match fit despite the burgers and bagels!
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 5 - Celts FC: 2
Venue: Gliderfield
HT (1 - 0)
Back to the fray for the intrepid LHS travellers after New York, which was memorable for many reasons; not least representing the school and Cardiff with pride in a 0-0 draw against the NY state champions.
So in summary, a satisfactory win, although an up and down performance with a mixture of excellent build up play intermingled with some sloppiness.
Also, some firsts - and nearly a first - to report.
The former included one of our Panthers playing for the first time with an alleged hangover from the night before! and Jenkins R's first competitive goal for the team; the latter being Harris D, just inches away from scoring his first ever goal.
In the end, David had to settle for an assist as his challenge on the 'keeper ensured a Bould A corner went straight in.
Other goals coming from Joyce J, Calliva A - fine left foot finish after the best move of the game - and Lawson W.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 4 - Urdd: 1
Venue: Gliderfield
HT (3 - 1)
A welcome if not surprising return to action considering the week's heavy rainfall.
It was a game that kept King R (snr) busy; Rob even having to brandish a rare yellow card to 'a good lad but a bit mad on the football pitch', as reported by King R (jnr) of his Plasmawr schoolmate!
Urdd having overdone the physical stuff throughout the first half, but not preventing the boys sweeping into a three goal lead thanks to Calliva A (2) and a top class finish from Hinchly C.
The second half was a competitive stalemate until Payne D slotted home with ten minutes to go - Dan having had a good lie in before joining us at 11.15 a.m.
Meanwhile, the squad has been looking a bit thin including Rhyd on unpaid leave, and Williams H out until the new year.
So, when approached by Cowan J from Celts, Big Dave was able to do a deal.
Jake happy to join his LHS mates, only to get poleaxed on debut by the friendly Urdd fullback for his troubles!
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Splott Albion: 1 - Lisvane Panthers A: 3
Venue: Splott Park
HT (1 - 2)
So the road to 'Royal' Taffs Wells started at Splow Spa - another old hunting ground not seen for many years.
Simultaneously, there were some mini games going on, which brought some memories back - don't know what they would have made of Big Dave's half time team talk though - somewhat fruity!
Yes, it was one of those days when football can be a bit of a struggle.
We sort of meandered our way to a two goal lead from Calliva A and Bould A, without being totally convincing before Splott replied just before the break.
The second half was hard work too and you wondered if Splott could sneak an equaliser.
However, a mid half swop around put Jenkins R into midfield, which galvanised affairs and Alessandro got his reward for a tireless performance by snaffling a second.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Celts: 0 - Lisvane Panthers A: 1
Venue: Llanishen Park
HT (0 - 1)
Llanishen Park - the best kept secret in North Cardiff Certainly for some of us, as we needed the A-Z even though its so local!
Not only that but we found ourselves on both the largest pitch we have played on and one in the best condition, which protected it from the frost when the majority of games were postponed.
Anyway enough of the horticulture. This was a well contested, good spirited encounter, which was decided after only five minutes from a neat, first time Hinchly C finish.
After the break, we wasted several very good opportunities; Bould A coming closest in striking a post from 20 yards.
However, you always need that second goal and we nearly paid the price, as Celts missed a great opportunity in the dying minutes.
So not only good just to be on the grass again, but we're not threatened by any Winding Up orders from HMRC and we've paid the players (their pocket money) on time, so we're better off than some.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 2 - Thornhill Athletic: 0
Venue: Gliderfield
HT (0 - 0)
The 13 available today all worked hard and they had to as Thornhill put in a gutsy effort in the mainly LHS family affair.
However, its also fair to say that the first half was pretty dire and a goal looked as likely as a ...Tony Blair apology... (what, satire?).
Fortunately, the Big Dave half-time chat worked, and it was Lawson W who livened things up. After having a 'goal' disallowed, he made the breakthrough around the hour mark.
Will was then denied by keeper, Weston J, but Cowan J gleefully followed up to score his first goal for the team.
After that, there was some much better football, whilst two consecutive clean sheets is probably unique!
So half term report, so far so good.
36 Goals to date in 11 league and cup matches - Calliva A (9); Joyce J (7); Bould A (6); Lawson W (6); Gurney R (2); Hinchly C (2); Cowan J (1); Davies S (1); Jenkins R (1); and Payne D (1).
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Grangetown Boys Club: 2 Lisvane Panthers A: 2
Venue: Sevenoaks
HT (0 - 0)
A draw against the league champions is never shabby of course, but having established a 2-0 lead the boys were disappointed not to win.
The match followed a similar pattern to recent clashes with Grangetown, where we have gained the initial ascendancy, but they have finished the stronger.
We defended well throughout as Cox C and Jenkins R showed firm resolve, whilst Drury M was as industrious as ever in a goalless first half.
After the break, there was a burst of activity, prompted by Bould A. First, with a quality free-kick delivery, which Calliva A instinctively headed home - good stuff guys; Alex was then fouled in the box, converted the penalty before he also struck the bar, as we pushed for a third.
However, the BC took a grip in midfield for the last quarter and deserved their point.
It could have been worse, but for a great Moore J block at the end.
(Jonathan Bould)
Divisional Cup Round Three
Lisvane Panthers A: 4 - Trowbridge FC: 2
Venue: Gliderfield
HT (2 - 1)
The boys merited their passage into the semi-finals for the second year running after a good alround effort.
The last four of the FA Cup was also decided this weekend, and there are clear favourites in both competitions (Fairwater / Chelsea), but the other teams still in the local version, Bulldogs, Marlboro and Pentyrch, are quite capable of a strong challenge. Can Spurs or Villa stop The Blues?
Meanwhile, back at a rather grassless Gliderfield, the Panthers first half performance was as good as any they have produced this season, which meant we were well worth our lead thanks to Gurney R and a cracking Rooneyesque header from Joyce J.
Unfortunately, the referee contrived to somehow award Trowbridge a penalty just before half-time, which didn't go down well with the Lisvaneites on the touchline. Nor were they happy with his handling of one or two late tackles, which prompted a gentle word in his shell-like from the Happy Hammer.
The second half remained pretty competitive and it took good finishes from Calliva A and the 'ambidextrous' Hinchly C, switching from left-back to right wing, to secure the win.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
AFC Whitchurch YC Blues: 0 - Lisvane Panthers A: 2
Venue: Gliderfield
HT (0 - 0)
The team ground out the win with another good defensive performance from the back-four. Although, this did include Cox C and the referee exchanging niceities via a yellow card. But the ref. was pleased with you in the second half Chris!
In terms of the details, we were unable to make the most of a number of opportunities in the first half.
Eventually, on the hour mark, a good short corner routine broke the deadlock, as Brown B put in a super ball for Calliva A to force the ball over the line.
Payne D then scored from close range with his left-foot, which capped a good effort by Dan as he was probably our most dangerous player today.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Thornhill Athletic: 0 - Lisvane Panthers A: 11
Venue: Llanishen Park
HT (0 - 8)
Although not quite matching the team's record result from U12 days, the boys' recent performances have indicated that a thrashing was on for someone - and it was their LHS school-mates who copped it.
Despite the goal glut, today's champagne moments probably involved Thornhill goalie, Weston J.
Firstly, he made an amazing triple save amidst the first half mayhem; and then he spoilt the moment we had all been waiting ten years for - a Harris D goal.
David was up for a corner, connected with a left foot shot, which looked to have sneaked into the corner, only for Jack to turn the ball around the post - gutted!
Meanwhile, the hit parade was led by a well-taken Joyce J hat-trick, with support from Bould A (2), Lawson W, Jenkins R, Cowan J, and Payne D, plus season's openers for Cox C and Drury M.
It all means that with a third of the season still to go that it could get interesting, very interesting as Barry Davies said on MoTD in about 1985.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Pentyrch Rangers: 1 - Lisvane Panthers A: 4
Venue: Parc y Dwrlyn
HT (0 - 2)
A change in itinery meant today was a league match instead of the scheduled semi-final. This would now be a couple of days later to allow Pentrych's rugby players to be available for the 'bigger' game.
Whether it was down to this, but the performance lacked a bit of focus. Even so, there were first half goals from Payne D and Lawson W, and there should have been a few more after a host of chances were spurned; whilst Calliva A saw enough of their linesman's flag to last him a lifetime!
The second half was harder work than it should have been after Rangers were gifted a goal straight from the restart.
However, normal service was eventually resumed as Bould A converted a penalty, after cleverly inviting a foul tackle, and Joyce J scored the fourth.
(Jonathan Bould)
Divisional Cup Semi-Final
Lisvane Panthers A: 3 - Pentyrch Rangers: 2
Venue: Caedelyn
HT (1 - 1)
Set your satnav for Taffs Wells!
You only have to ask Rednapp H how difficult semis are (sorry Steve), so getting through to any final is a worthy achievement.
It was a right old battle though against typically committed opposition, so a big well done to the squad.
It was a difficult first quarter, as Pentrych, already revved up, were further bouyed by an early goal.
We eventually got going with Brown B striking the cross-bar from distance. And then just before half-time, shall we say a 'technical penalty decision' went in our favour, converted well by Bould A.
The second half was much of the same. Not a classic by any means, but when Lawson W pounced to put Panthers ahead, we looked as though we'd finish the job.
However, Rangers equalised and with the tension building, extra-time was looking odds on.
However, with less than five minutes to go, Drury M pulled a ball back from the by-line and Cowan J nabbed the winner.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 2 - Grangetown Boys Club: 4
Venue: Gliderfield
HT (0 - 1)
These games have been a bit of a roller-coaster over the years and this was no exception, as the 16 game unbeaten league and cup run came to an end.
Panthers were lucky to be only one down at the break, as Grangetown completely dominated the play.
Fortunately, the cavalry appeared at half-time in the form of Lawson W. First, Will crossed for Fenton A to equalise before he scored a cracker himself.
And with Jenkins R playing a real captain's innings, the B.C. looked as though they were going to implode.
But as has so often happened before, we couldn't quite find the knock-out punch and they rallied to draw level.
And then literally in the last minute, from halfway, Mr Ghani danced past defender after defender, to score another of his dream goals.
The disappointment was reinforced with the last kick of the game.
There were a few aches and bruises after two tough games in three days.
It was time for the ice packs before warming those muscles up thoroughly on Sunday morning.
It won't be any easier against Fairwater.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 Division Cup Final
Fairwater Juniors: 1 - Lisvane Panthers A: 1
Venue: Taffs Well
HT (0 - 1)
(after extra time Panthers win 2-0 on penalties)
Alex Bould heads Panthers into the lead from a Will Lawson corner
A truly memorable performance brought its reward against top class opposition - winners in the previous 4 years.
The afternoon seemed to go on and on, but more importantly so did the boys.
They stepped up to the physical challenge, and just played with real bottle including Cox C and Jenkins R doing their best Ferdinand and Vidic impressions.
Of course, the match played havoc with the tv schedules as we entered the dreaded penalty shoot out zone.
Captain Ryan Jenkins receives the cup
That part of the drama saw Moore J make two saves; the first of which was not only superb, but seemed to visibly deflate Fairwater.
And to seal the deal, there was coolness personified as Davies S and Chris C both slotted home their spot-kicks.
At the end of 100 minutes, chances had been few and far between. We started off well and after 15 minutes, a Lawson W corner was headed home by Bould A.
Fairwater got on top before half-time and scored soon after the break. But, we knuckled down and from then on, it was pretty even.
Panthers U16A team with the cup (and some old geezers)
Jacob had to make an outstanding block just before the end; our old boy, Prentice M, fleetingly escaped his Brown B afternoon restraining order and just fired wide; Alex B was just inches away from turning in another of Will's inswinging exocets; and finally Payne D was only denied in the box by a last ditch tackle.
The other source of satisfaction for everybody was that all the subs had their part to play too.
Most of all on this occasion, Stephen; consistently the best penalty taker during practice on those windswept Monday nights at Llanrumney.
So there was only one choice for Big Dave to turn to... and as they say in Taffs Wells and Lisvane the rest is history!
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 2 - AFC Whitchurch YC: 1
Venue: Caedelyn
HT (1 - 0)
Very much a case of after the Lord Mayor's Show, which was inevitable following on from Sunday's herculean labours.
But there was just enough energy left to dig out the win with goals from Payne D and Fenton A. Alex also livening up proceedings with a good example of a Greco-Roman grapple and argy bargy with the Whitchurch centre-half.
Other than that, the team is starting to resemble emergency ward ten with pulled muscles, soreness and grazes.
So another well done to the guys - a number of whom literally played through the pain barrier, which meant there was a sigh of relief that the fixture due two days later was postponed.
Meanwhile, reinforcements for Saturday were due from Spain in the form of Calliva A - finally escaping the volcanic dust cloud!
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
AFC Whitchurch YC: 1 - Lisvane Panthers A: 0
Venue: Hailey Park
HT (0 - 0)
If the cup win was one end of the football spectrum, then this is the opposite.
Not only an inability to beat a team with only ten men for most of the game, but having a player sent off after another large bust up.
The bottom line is that we've let our discipline slip, and need to regain focus for the last three games.
There is probably a reasonable plea for some mitigation, as there was persistent niggle from Whitchurch, which wasn't addressed by the referee; frustration built up before the fuse blew.
Very unPanthers like. However, if we had taken one of a busload of chances then the irritations wouldn't have mattered.
Joyce J came closest, hitting the woodwork twice, and Drury M worked his socks off as ever.
But we committed defensive hari-kari midway through the second half and from then on it was just one of those days. You could say that's football!
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 2 - Trowbridge FC: 0
Venue: Caedelyn
HT (1 - 0)
Another match not to live long in the memory, in which the Trowbridge players decided, for some reason, to have a running feud with King R (snr) from the first minute.
Fortunately, there was no particular animosity between the teams, so it was poor old Rob who had to take all the ire. Amazingly, he's agreed to come back and do it for a final time tomorrow against another of his favourite Cardiff suburbs.
In between, Joyce J took his early goal well and a Bould A shot put the game to bed in the last quarter.
With the budding linguists revising for their French orals, there were only eleven available tonight. So credit to the makeshift back four of Cowan J, Fenton A, Harris D, and all well marshalled by Cox C.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 4 - Llanedeyrn Bulldogs: 3
Venue: Caedelyn
HT (1 - 1)
'Let the boys work it out for themselves' instructed Big Dave in what was effectively a play-off for third place; and so they did in one of their best ever results.
Just 24 hours after the Trowbridge game, once again it was just a merry band of eleven with a few diehards on the touchline who convened at the same time at the same venue.
They were treated to a very good, see-saw game. It was a ropey start as Bulldogs scored first and dominated, as another makeshift back four struggled to come to terms with their lively front two.
However, everyone settled down and Calliva A grabbed the equaliser.
After the break, the match really hotted up as first Buckley H scored a first time beauty from 18 yards - Harry leaving it late to get off the mark this season, but he always notches one!
Bulldogs then struck back to go 3-2 up before two super goals from Payne D and Alessandro again turned it around.
It was King R's (snr) last match as referee for the team too, so obviously a big thank you to Rob for your sterling service and at times having a thick skin; which surprise, surprise was needed again tonight as the Llanedeyrn support had a few things to say! It just added to the satisfaction!
So, just one more to go and probably fitting it's against Fairwater.
(Jonathan Bould)
Under 16 A Division
Lisvane Panthers A: 4 - Fairwater Juniors: 2
Venue: Thornhill
HT (3 - 0)
The management has officially run out of superlatives.
Played in ideal conditions, we witnessed a top quality game, which was the perfect culmination of a decade of Saturday morning football.
Even Alan Hansen would have had to concede the first half was sensational.
Once Fairwater's attacks were rebuffed, we were fast on the break, as their manager encouragingly shouted from the touchline!
Calliva A and Joyce J's movement all game was first class and they both took their chances expertly, whilst Payne D's recent goal rush continued.
Juniors, as expected, came out all guns blazing after the break, and pulled back to 3-2.
Resolution was required, so final mentions in despatches for Moore J and Fenton A; Alex stepping into the centre half position again with real assurity.
The storm was weathered before a couple of the long service stalwarts fashioned and scored the decisive fourth; Lawson W's inswinging freekick came off the crossbar and Bould A was there to slot home.
So, certainly a case of the best being saved until last. And whatever else this gang achieve in the field of sport, they can remember their Panthers' journey with pride.
Finally, with the annual friendly against the 'B's to come, we still have a few things to tick off; namely one last outing for each of Williams H and King R, and a goal for Harris D!
And then, 'that's it, the end' to coin a phrase.
(Jonathan Bould)
| P | W | L | D | F | A | Position | Scorers | |
| League | 20 | 15 | 2 | 3 | 66 | 31 | 3rd | Joyce J (14); Calliva A (12); Bould A (11); Lawson W (9); Payne D (6); Cowan J (2); Fenton A (2); Gurney R (2); Hinchly C (2); Jenkins R (2); Buckley H (1); Cox C (1); Davies S (1); Drury M (1) |
| Cup | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 11 | 6 | WINNERS! | Bould A (3); Calliva A (3); Cowan J (1); Gurney R (1); Hinchly C (1); Joyce J (1); Lawson W (1) |
Notes
1.
Congratulations to Alessandro and Josh for being joint 'Golden Boot' winners, while fourteen out of an effective squad of sixteen outfield players each contributed to the team's goal tally.
2.
Alessandro has been top scorer singuarly in three out of the five seasons of junior football, and also once jointly with Rowan, who claimed the honour on the other occasion.
3.
The five year junior football scoring summary includes:
Calliva A (96);
Lawson W (70);
Bould A (67);
Gurney R (66);
Joyce J (28);
Prentice M (21) and
Buckley H (18).
4.
Five shut outs in 2009/10:
Moore J (4);
Brown B (1)
Best in five seasons of junior football.