Manager: Paul Seedhouse - 024 7644 4313 or 07791 089212

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(1) Friendly (2)Cup

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14/03/10

Coundon Court 0-1 Mount Nod (A)

This eagerly anticipated showdown between the two top teams in the red league had arrived with the current champions visiting Mount Nod who sit top of the pile in the league. Anyone thats ever seen a game between these two sets of boys would know that they would be in for a treat, with records been set by Coundon Court over the past few season Mount Nod have come out from the pack and become their number one rivals, but its a good healthy rivalry with a tremendous amount of respect between the players, coaches and supporters which aways makes for a great morning of football.

You could feel the tension as the game kicked off and it was better than being at the Ricoh with both teams going toe to toe in every department. As the half went on it was the home side that took control and settled quicker taking the game to Coundon who at times looked really jaded. If not for some great defending by Thomas and wonderful goalkeeping from Jamie Mount Nod would have took the lead long before they did. After a number of well worked corners they got their goal a good header direct from a well taken corner 1-0.

At half time Coundon came in and were told that they were not playing their best but were still in this game but would have pick up the pace. The second half was real end to end stuff with the lions finally starting to play. They had the better of the play but couldn't find the goal they needed. Jordan went close from a Cain throw in and Matthew saw a shot go just wide. Cain who played really well in the second half, worked the keeper from close range but could not find the back of the net, and as the lions pushed forward looking to pull level Mount Nod hit them on the counter but again found out why Coundon have got such a good defensive record with Thomas again putting in some well timed challenges and Jamie making at least 3 out of this world saves.

1-0 was how the game finished, Mount Nod were the better team and deserved their win and are the first team to beat Coundon Court for 2 years a fantastic record. I am glad that if the run had to end it ended against a very good team and not a lesser team that just got lucky.

Mount Nod played well today but Coundon again proved that even when they are not at their very best they are still hard to beat and were always in this game and they will learn more from this game than any of the 50 that went before it.

Man of the Match - Jamie - An outstanding display of all round goalkeeping making some top saves to keep his team mates in this game.

14/03/10

Coundon Court 4-0 Cov Jag (H)

It was a special day at Coundon Court today as it was my 50th game as manager, would the boys make it 50 games undefeated against a Cov Jag side that have always given the Lions a good game over the past few seasons?

The weather didn't help as just before kick the wind really whipped up and made it difficult to play good football but the lions took control and played some good stuff Owen again was on fire and put in some great crosses which nearly put the lions ahead. Jordan was back today bossing the midfield showing all the leadership qualities that make him the player he is, and a goal did come after a great move that saw Cain play a perfect pass into Owen who held off 2 challenges and coolly slotted the ball past the keeper 1-0 and that's how it stayed until half time.

Sam, Matthew and Harry came on to give Cain, Owen and Ben a rest at the break. The boys continued to play some great passing football and got a second goal from a great strike from the skipper which hit the crossbar and the first to react was Matthew who tapped to ball home 2-0 and he soon got his second and Coundon's third 3-0. Sam went close twice and Cain who was now back on skimmed the post. Matthew went close to getting a hattrick showing blistering pace but just overran the ball.

Goal number 4 came from last weeks centre forward who couldn't score an open goal never mind a curling strike from outside the box into the top corner but he did this week, Daniel made it 4-0.

A good alround team performance to start off a mini 10 game season that the boys kicked off today, they have a busy April and so do their nearest rival so it should make for a wonderful climax to the season.

I would just like to say well done to the boys for making it 50 game undefeated a wonderful achievement by a great set of boys and thank you for winning on my 50th game in charge.

Man of the Match - Jordan - The skipper is back The skipper is back HELLO HELLO!!!!.....A true warrior.

7/03/10

Coundon Court 8-0 Christ the King Rovers (H)

With Jack Frost trying his hardest to call another game off the early morning sun came out and made it a lovely day to get the cup defence back on track and Coundon Court welcomed local rivals Christ The King Rovers to Northbrook Road for this last 16 cup tie, and as we all know anything can happen in the cup.

The defending champions took control of the game right from kick off passing the ball around well and making to most of the space they had been given from a very defensive Rovers formation with shots flying high and wide. A goal was needed to settle the Lions and it came from the "pocket rocket" Sam who smashed the boys one up. Christ The King battled well but Owen was in top form and running amok on the right and could have had a goal or two himself but played some unselfish passes to team mate and skied a few!

But what came next was a bit of a collectors item ,after a great passing move the only outfield player not to score this season hit the ball into the back of the net, Thomas put Coundon 2 up and like buses you wait for one all season and then 2 come in 5 minutes with Thomas again finishing off a great move by passing the ball past the keeper 3-0.

Cain soon made it 4 by thundering a shot which nearly took the Kings keeper into the back of the net with the ball and to round the half off Sam got his second to put the lion 5 up at the break.

With changes made at half time the boys continued to batter the Kings goal and with Ben trying to keep the score down by making 2 goal-line clearances for CTK (which were harder than scoring) the boys were camped in the kings half and went 6 up with Harry slotting the ball away after some good skill from the wing wizard, but once again the biggest cheer of the day went to a certain winger who did get on the score sheet ......at last much to the joy of his Grandad as Ben got his first and coundons 7th goal and up he popped again to make it 8-0.

By the end of the game we had a new attacking force Daniel and Jamie were now up front. Jamie tried to get on the scoresheet and did well when he came out but as for Dan who has won many awards over his short but successful career with the Lions, i have a feeling he will never win "top scorer".......hey Dan.

Man of the Match - Owen - His best allround performance for the club this season showing everyone his pace and tricks did everything but score today and I am sure this is the sign of things to come from this very talented young man, keep it up Os.

14/02/10

Coundon Court 1-1 Stratford Town Juniors (H)

After playing some good games against Stratford over the past year this was the first time they had travelled to Coundon Court.

We always knew it was going to be a hard game as Stratford are a very good footballing side. From the kick off the lions attached the Stratford goal and should have took the lead on more than one occasion but failed to do so. Against good sides like Stratford you need to take your chances and the visitors gave as good as they got and had chances themselves to score but didn't.

Towards the end of the half Coundon were under a little pressure and went one down to a strike from long range and for the second game running came in at half time 1-0l down.

The second half saw both sides playing good football and trying to win the game, but it was Coundon who hit back with a well taken goal from Owen after some good play from Harry on the right. 1-1 game on!!

Coundon had their chances to win this game but so did Stratford and a draw seemed a fair result as the full time whistle went.

Special mentions to Jamie and Daniel who were awarded their 100 appearance cap after the game, a fantastic achievement well done to you both.

Man of the Match - Ben - From start to finish never gave up and showed what a good and valuable player he is to the lions.

7/02/10

Coundon Court 1-1 Coventry Sphinx (A)

A last chance for Sphinx to try and beat the two time league champions at mini soccer after 5 previously failed attempts and the parents were clearly up for it.

It was the Champions who started the better playing some good football but with no end product in front of goal (a bit like Arsenal), but after dominating the play the score stayed 0-0 until Sphinx pumped the ball up the pitch and chased it down. The forward hit a shot which found its way past Jamie.

Jordan hit the post just before the break only for the ball to fall into the keepers hands and the boys came in at half time 1-0 down but wondering how.

The second half was the same as the first with Coundon having 95% of the ball but still being kept at bay by every Sphinx player getting behind the ball their only objective not to concede. The lions pulled level with a strike from CAIN and it remained 1-1 at full time.

Man of the Match - Daniel - Solid

24/01/10

Coundon Court 6-0 Pro Santos (H)

13/12/09

Coundon Court 2-2 Southam United (A)

A difficult game played in a disappointing atmosphere.

Coundon started well going on the attack straight from the off putting some good moves together and going close to taking the lead which they did with a strike from Sam that took a deflection along the way and past the keeper 0-1. From there the boys should have pushed on but they didn't and let Southam into the game and to their credit they played some good football and pulled level with a goal after a nice move which Coundon stood and watched instead of trying to stop the home side. The boys then found themselves 2-1 down before half time, this wasn't a bad day at the office ,"No one had even turned up for work".

The boys were fortunate that Southam seemed to overdo the physical side of the game rather than concentrating on their football because clearly the Lions were not playing well.

Half time the less said the better.

Almost straight from kick off Coundon got back on level terms with Sam scoring again and Coundon were then camped in Southam's half peppering the goal but couldn't find the winning goal.

At the final whistle a draw seemed fair as Southam played very well in the first half and Coundon dominated the second but with little reward.

This was the worse team performance since I have been the manager and we still should have won with the chances we created, the second half was a bit better than the first but it still wasn't good enough for coundon court, but what it showed was that even playing that poorly against opposition playing above themselves we are still very hard to beat. Well done to Southam finally taking a point from us after six successive defeats. They have clearly shown themselves to be the best side in Southam.

Man of the Match - None - But credit goes to Cain for taking the managers decision whith great maturity and showing outstanding character a lesson to us all, well done Cain.

29/11/09

Coundon Court 4-0 Whitley Juniors (H)

After an early morning pitch inspection by Andy Cook the game was on.....so thank you Andy, and as the players arrived and warmed up there was a good feeling in the home camp and that feeling was backed up as the game kicked off and the champions hit top gear.

The boys were playing some wonderful football all over the pitch looking supremely confident and looking every inch the defending champions and not for the first time this season the away keeper kept his team in the game making some good saves.

Whitley did mount the odd attack but Daniel and Thomas are proving a tough nut to crack and with Jamie in fine form the lions looked like making it 5 cleansheets in a row. Whitley nearly did score from a free kick out on the left wing which was taken and the crossshot was brilliantly tipped onto the bar by Jamie to keep the scores level.

As the game went on the lions battered away at the Whitley goal and went 1 up from their inspirational skipper Jordan who let rip from mid way inside the whitley half and found the bottom cornerthe shot also passed the honest Cain who didn't get a touch?

Attack after attack saw some great passing football with Cain and Harry linking up really well, Harry was having his best game of the season showing his true ability on the ball and a new found workrate and Sam went close more than once.

How the boys came off at half time only 1 up was a surprise to everyone. With Matthew on up front for the impressive Cain the lions went out for the second half and were in full control of the game and went 2-0 ahead with a well taken goal from Matthew who was now playing with Ben and Owen on the wings and both were playing their best games of the season for the lions and Owen got on the scoresheet showing his pace and coolly slotting home Coundon's 3rd goal of the game.

Ben was battling well down the left and set Matthew up for his second of the match with some good wing play beating his man and playing an inch perfect pass for thunder boots to hit the back of the net 4-0. Now "what happened next" could be on a certain sports game show on the BBC as Matthew shot and hit the cross bar the ball came back, with his keen eye for goal he reacted the quickest and headed the rebound in, only for the ref to "Blow the whistle" while the ball was in mid air going over the line stopping Matthew from completing a second half hattrick.

This was a complete performance from Coundon with every player playing really well and adding something to the game so keep up the good work boys and the rewards will come your way.

Man of the Match - Harry showed today what he is all about and was back to his best, long may it continue, and Daniel who did what he does best in the middle of the pitch well done to you both.

22/11/09

Coundon Court 2-0 Coventry Copsewood (H)

With the bad weather all week both managers decided to switch this fixture to Coundon Court School and it seemed a good idea until about 10.45am and the rain clouds opened! But with everything ready and both sets of players there it was game on.

Coundon kicked off and put Copsewood under pressure and to be fair dominated the game, but Copsewood showed why they have had a good start to the season and held strong at the back.

The lions knew it was going to be a tough game as their opponents always give them a run for their money and Coundon knew they would have to keep going at a very well organised side who went close to taking the lead on a rare venture into the Champions half and if not for some scrappy defending and good keeping by Jamie who was looking for 4 cleansheets on the bounce the lions could have found themselves 1 down.

There was one change made in the first half "The ref" who arrived .......late so thanks Leigh for standing in sorry I had to bring you off you were having a good game but I just had to make the change.

As the half went on the boy were creating some good chances but needed to put one of them away, then up steps "Captain marvel" to put Coundon 1 up with a clinical finish and continue his great run of form this season(new boots as well 1 in 1).

At half time the boys were in full control but only being 1 up the game is never over. The second half was even more one way traffic as Copsewood were finding it hard to mount any sort of attack but they were still holding on at the back and frustrating Coundon at times.

The second goal did come and it was a good finish from Cain who also broke his new boots in with a goal on the day.

It wasn't a vintage performance by the "Champions" but they did what they had to do as teams this season seem to get players behind the ball and try to frustrate the lions.

Special mention to Jamie who did make it 4 in a row well done young man.

Men of The Match - The skipper put in another all action display showing he is the real heartbeat of this great team and capped it off with a goal well done Jordan, and "The Midfield General" did what he does best winning every challenge on the ground or in the air making all look so easy well played Daniel.

15/11/09

Coundon Court 0-0 Mount Nod Juniors(H)

The 15th November had been etched on everyones mind as "Judgement Day" and Don King couldn't have done a better job of creating a pre-match atmosphere for the two heavyweights of the red league to come head to head. Would the teams cancel each other out or would they produce the game of the season like last year 5-4 thriller?

After the coaches had given their last set of instruction to their teams the start of the game was met by an almighty roar from both set of supporters who over the game played their part in this fantastic game. It was Coundon who started the stronger playing some great football and I am sure this was the first real test for the Mount Nod backline this season and they held up very well as most side would have found themselves out of the game after an explosive opening period from the champions. If it wasn't for one outstanding  one handed save from Brooklyn the visitors would have been one down after Jordan had hit a great strike from outside the area.

Matthew went close from a corner with a header which clipped the bar but Coundon didn't have it all their own way and they were aware that this Mount Nod side were dangerous and they played some good counter attacking football but found Jamie was in inspired form for the lions and that Thomas was in an unforgiving mood at the back making a number of great tackles and his partner Daniel never put a foot wrong all game.

Harry and Sam were both working hard and putting in some great crosses and Matthew as ever was working so hard for the team up front. 0-0 at half time andIi think everyone, players, coaches and supporters needed the break after a wonder half of football.

I bet the half time team talks were about word for word the same "Go out there because you have got this game" and both sides came out for the second half "ready to rumble" And it was Mount Nod who came out the stronger of the two sides pushing forward trying to get the all important first goal in this already "classic" game and it was only going to take one goal to settle this game. Coundon stood strong and matched the Mount Nod attacks.

Coundon now had Owen"The Flash" on the right and he showed his pace down the wing and put in some great crosses but again good defending and goalkeeping by the visitors kept the scores level, Cain"Delap" was now playing up front and was doing a great job and went so close to scoring but his shot just brushed the post. He also showed some wonderful skill and footwork to put Jordan in on goal who was a football boot stud away from scoring and if any player deserved to score today it was the Coundon captain as he was with out doubt the Coundon man of the match.

Mount Nod finished the match with a run of corners but couldn't find the final touch in front of goal and at that late stage it would have been hard for either side to lose this game as every young man had played their part in a fantastic game of junior football played by the best under 10s player around.

This game did live up to all the pre match hype and the return game will be a certain  "sell out" I am sure as you could sell tickets for the "REMATCH".

Academy Football.... you wouldn't live with these boys as they showed today that they have the desire the heart and the will to win that only a few possess and they can play a bit as well.

Man of the Match - Jordan"captain marvel" what a game this young man had never lost a challenge went close to scoring and has the heart of a "lion king" and showed today why he is so highly regarded by amongst all the teams and coaches in this league.

8/11/09

Coundon Court 1-0 Coventry Sphinx (H)

What is it with the weather on Sunday mornings at the moment? cold wet and windy which is how the champions started the latest game in the defence of there title, well cold and wet anyway.

Sphinx looked really good and had come to Coundon Court with one thing in mind to "Win" and were unlucky not to take the lead in the first 15 minutes, Jamie made one great save to keep the scores level but for all there good play the visitors lacked a cutting edge in the final third.

As the game went on the lions decided to turn up and they started to get into their stride and press forward forcing a run of 3 corners. The third was a well taken one from Owen which was met by a wonderful header from "captain marvel" who thundered the ball into the back of the net 1-0 ....half time.

The boys came in one up but were told that the performance just wasn't good enough. From then on Coundon took control of the game and dominated the second half playing a bit better than the first.

Harry was now running at the Sphinx backline and putting in some good crosses and went close with a fantastic strike only for it to hit the bar, Thomas brushed the post with a shot and Jordan went close a number of times but it finished 1-0 to Coundon and they had the 3 points...just about.

It's always the sign of a "great team" to come away with a win after a less than convincing performance and to handle the sometimes hostile away support. But then this bunch of boys have nothing to prove to anyone.

Man of the Match - Jamie - Has shown this season what an outstanding keeper he is and again today when called upon he his the best around and another cleansheet for Coundons number 1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1/11/09

Coundon Court 5-0 Weddington Thistle (H)

The rain was lashing down, the wind was blowing a gale, it was cold and the sky was dark and grey, as the the champions took their next step along the way to defending "The Cup". They entertained Weddington Thistle for the second time this season, different weather,different pitch but the lions put on a display of "total football" at times.

The Champions went out and blitzed the Weddington goal and if not for some outstanding goalkeeping from their keeper (again) they would have found themselves behind before they did and it was "goal machine" MATTHEW that slotted home the first with some good following up at the far post 1-0 and the Lions were on their way, it was soon 2 and yet again it was MATTHEW who scored his and Coundon's second 2-0.

Weddington did try and get at Coundon but just found the lions too strong in every department, the third goal came after some good work from the "captain" for the day Sam who was playing his 100th game for the lions, He and Daniel linked well and MATTHEW got on the end of a great cross to complete his hattrick 3-0 and the tie was over before the break.

With a reshuffled pack the boys went out and carried on where they had left off in the first half pounding the Thistle goal the fourth came from a well worked move, Cain "Delap" let rip and OWEN was there again for the second game running to smash the ball home to get a goal on his birthday and put Coundon 4-0 up.

The fifth goal was a special goal on a special day for a very special young man who was making his 100th appearance for the club, Sam played in the first game these boys ever played (in an unfamiliar green kit and is the first of the all conquering under 8s and 9s to reach this milestone. Captain for the day and he finished it off with a well taken goal to make the day 5-0 and the champions are in the last 16 and still on course for the double-double.

Man of the Match - Sam - Great display on "His" day, Sam is in the form of his life at the moment and long may it continue. 

11/10/09

Coundon Court 4-1 Pro Santos (A)

The Lions travelled to newly promoted Pro Santos and their now legendary pitch which you have to see to believe. I did hear that Philip Schofield is thinking of using it for one of the challenges on The Cube.

The Lions set about their business well straight from the off, although they were having to adjust to the conditions they put the Santos backline under pressure, and the first goal came from the inform striker MATTHEW who put Coundon ahead with a well taken goal from a Harry corner 0-1 and the boys were cruising.

Jordan was in fantastic form running the show making some superb passes and went close to scoring with a few long range efforts. The boys went 2 up with a move straight from the training ground which I enjoyed as we had been working on it over the last few weeks. The move involved Daniel and Sam linking up and MATTHEW headed home his and Coundon's second of the day 0-2.

With a move around at half time the Lions went out and carried on from where they had finished the first half, in control and went 3 up early on from a Cain "Delap" throw in, which OWEN met at the far post to get on the scoresheet 0-3.

Santos did try and get at Coundon as the game went on and the lions seemed to take theire foot off the gas and were giving away easy chances but with Jamie playing so well its got to be some shot to beat him or a "silly goal mouth scramble" that isn't cleared.......... .

The fourth goal came after some good battling from Harry who then looked up and picked OWEN out who got his second of the game and put the Lions 0-4 up, game over.

But yet again this season Jamie was denied another cleansheet that he so deserved when Pro Santos scored a goal after Coundon had failed to clear the ball on more than one occasion.

Another win and another 3 points which is what we came for today "The Hat-trick is on".

Man of the Match - Jordan - Back to his very very best showing everyone what a talented footballer he is, an outstanding alround display of midfield play, he can talk the talk but backs it up as he can walk the walk, well done skipper just let your boots do the talking from now on.

11/10/09

Coundon Court 5-1 Weddington Thistle (H)

As i arrived at Coundon Court School this morning it wasn't the best day, damp and miserable and I thought to myself who would want to be me?..... a  36 year old grey haired overweight coach,Then at 10.30am i realised why some one would want to be me, as 11 great reasons  arrived in Coundon Court tracksuits.

"The Champions" were ready for action and ready to put last week's performance behind them and put a dampner on an "A League mystery Guests"  weekend. The lions took complete control of the game from the very first whistle and were playing some wonderful football with Jordan at the centre of everything passing the ball superbly, and it was the skipper who tested the keeper early in the half with a right foot screamer heading for the top corner but was denied a certain goal by the keeper who made an outstanding save to keep the scores level, but with all the pressure from Coundon he could not keep them at bay on his own and the lions took the lead with some good inter play between Matthew and Harry on the right, Harry played a inch perfect pass to MATTHEW who beat the keeper at the near post 1-0. It was soon 2 as MATTHEW got his second with a well taken header

2-0 and at times the lions were over playing around the Weddington goal area and should have worked the keeper a lot more, the third goal came from a free kick which captain marvel hit from outside the area and as it made it way towards goal MATTHEW got a flick on it......or did he?  action replays...goalline technology its one for Andy and the boys in the studio to debate but it went in and thats good enough for me 3-0.

With 4 changes made at half time Ben, Owen, Kane and Cain T all coming on Sam, Thomas, Jordan and Matthew all took a well deserved rest. As the half went on Weddington did try and make a game of it and did mount the odd attack but Jamie showed yet again what a great keeper he is with some good keeping.

The boy went 4 up with a goal from KANE A who pounced on a loose ball in the box showing a good forwards instinct around the goal.

4-0 and coundon battered the Weddington goal Cain went close and so did the rejuvenated Harry who did everything but score in todays game, a 5th goal did come and it was OWEN who got his first league goal for Coundon with a looping shoot from the right wing which dropped over the keeper into the net 5-0.

With less than 30 seconds to go Weddington pushed forward and pulled a goal back with a scrappy goalmouth scramble and Coundon gave away a silly goal for the second week running much to the anger of a happy coach up until that point 5-1 and the final whistle went straight after the restart.

It wasn't vintage Coundon Court but we are getting there so keep it up boys. It was good to get this game played after all of this week off field activity although it is nice to think that The Champions don't just entertain some people on the pitch but off it as well.

Would the real Paul Seedhouse please stand up please stand up.

Men of the match.....Matthew and Harry....Matthew for a great first half hattrick??? but wonderful workrate and desire to win and Harry showed us all what he can do when he is on form, terrorising defenders. Let's hope he can keep it up... wing wizard. 

4/10/09

Coundon Court 1-1 Christ the King (A)

A wonderful October morning greeted everyone as Coundon Court went to their local rivals CTK for their fourth league game of the season, with local pride as well as 3 poins at stake.

Coundon seemed in good spirits as kick off approached. The game kicked off and it was Coundon who went on the attack but never really gave the Kings keeper anything to worry about and found themselves having to defend more and more as the half went on and if not for some good tackling from Thomas and great handling from Jamie the boys could have gone behind more than once.

Sam was putting in yet another top performance but not even the pocket rocket could ignite his team mates into action, things weren't looking right and there was a sense of complacency with the Lions which is never a good thing for any team never mind one striving to win three league titles in a row, and it was Coundon holding on and half time couldn't come quick enough for a certain coach.

The second half was wave after wave of Coundon pressure but to their credit CTK stood strong and defended gallantly and in numbers, they did mount the odd attack but nothing to worry the coundon backline, but with all the play things just wouldn't go right in the final third of the pitch.

With the game looking like a goalless draw the deadlock was broken as a well taken corner from Owen was met with a thumping header into the back of the Kings net from Cain T getting his second goal of the season and putting Coundon 1-0 up.

Coundon should have seen the game out and had chances to do so Jordan hit the bar and then watched a screaming piledriver tipped onto the post by the kings keeper.

CTK pushed on looking to get a point which their performance deserved and had 2 or 3 corners in a row and it was from the last one that they drew level after a goalmouth scramble the ball was stabbed home .

1-1 and Coundon were seeing their 100% record go before them and as the final whistle went the Kings players jumped for joy at holding the champions to a draw and fair play to Stuart and his team.

This is a stark reminder for the champions that they will have to work hard for their third title, which I have no doubt they will win.

The season is a long one and unfortunately for some people they don't give out cups for being top in October they do that in May as we all know.

To play like this and not lose shows what a great mental attitude this group of boys have. They were never going to lose today but they always looked like they would struggle to win.

Man of the Match - Sam - little man big heart, he is in the form of his live and must be sleeping well on sunday nights after all the work he puts into his game, keep it up young man.

27/9/09

Coundon Court 7-1 Stratford Town (A)

The Champions travelled to Stratford for the second week running but this time it was in the league and 3 valuable points were at stake to continue their 100% start to the season. The boys were fully aware that Stratford would not roll over after last week but would come at Coundon to try and gain revenge for last week and last season's cup final defeats.

The Lions kicked off and went straight on the attack working the Stratford keeper at every opportunity but they didn't have it all their own way as Thomas and Daniel continued in theire rich vein of form at the back reducing Stratford to shooting from long range and with Jamie in the form of his life in goal showing all to see what a great keeper he is the Stratford attack was getting frustrated.

Jordon was pulling all the strings in the middle of the park and Ben and Sam were working so hard out on the wings feeding Matthew whose link play is second to nonw and as Coundon pressed on a goal was inevitable and what a goal the ball found its way out to SAM on the left wing who beat his man cut inside and hit an unstoppable rocket into the top corner past a static keeper who could only watch the ball going past him into the back of the net 0-1 and the boys went close again with Ben just shooting high and wide.

Jordon brushed the crossbar with a great effort but the second goal did come and it was from another corner from Ben which was met by MATTHEW who headed into the Stratford goal 0-2. The boys were playing some wonderful football all over the pitch with every player showing confidence on the ball.  

The boys came in at half time 2 up but were in complete control, with changes made at the break Cain came on to give Jordon a well deserved rest and Owen was now on the right wing for the hard working Ben. Goal number 3 was a fantastic goal Daniel gave the ball out to SAM who looked up and found Cain who just flicked the ball with the outside of his boot back into the path of the on fire winger who then coolly placed his shoot hard and low into the back of the net 0-3 and it was soon 4 when MATTHEW got his second of the goal from close range again reward for such a hardworking display from the front man.

The Lions had a new name on the score sheet for the 5th goal as CAIN T opened his account for the lions with a great strike from the edge of the area and again the keeper could only watch as the ball went sailing past him. With more changes made in the second half the boy still pushed forward with Ben now slotting in to give Thomas a break and Jordan back on for Daniel and with HARRY now working the left side was making some of his trademark runs past the defender and got his goal by showing a new found desire as he kept going and scored with "a header" 0-6.

The Stratford players never gave up and will play worse this season and win games but they came up against a team who are starting to click but still have a long way to go before they hit top form.The 7th goal was met by a great cheer from the away supporters as KANE A opened his goal account in the league for the lions. After some good skills from Harry, Kane latched onto a well weighted pass and shot past the advancing keeper into the goal to round of the scoring.

Today Stratford became the first team to score past Jamie this season who is in fine form but he could do nothing about the shot that came from a crowd of players, even when the boys go out and hit 7 goals Jamie still plays a massive part in the game with his quick delivery from the goal area and a new found handing from shots with ball sticking to him. Every great team team is built from the back and what a foundation we have with Jamie.

The boys again showed today what a great team spirit we have and what a versatile squad we have and with every game we are getting better and better so well done and keep it up. Remember getting to the top is the easy bit staying there is the challenge and i know this group of boy are well up to it.

Man of the Match - Sam "The pocket rocket" back to his very best out on the left, 100%workrate and showed a touch of class with a certain contender for goal of the season even at this early stage. Hard in the tackle showed true lion spirit and it was great to see that smile at close hand for the second goal (96) not out.

20/9/09

Coundon Court 3-0 Stratford Town (A)

Another wonderful sunny day for the boys to start the defence of the Challenge Cup that they won against todays opponents Stratford Town in May.

After watching the U9s put on a good display the boy took to the pitch in good spirits. From the first whistle the lions were up for this game and went straight on the attack and went close to taking the lead with Matthew a constant threat as Stratford know only to well, after his hattrick in the final last season. Owen was working hard on the right wing and always looking to get the ball into the danger area but even with all the pressure Coundon were putting on they still had some defending to do and Thomas was in fine form reading the game so well, and Jamie seemed to be back to his best dominating his area and his handing was excellent today.

As the half went on Coundon were playing some great football and took a deserved lead with a wonder strike from Captain Marvel JORDON who hit a looping shot from midway inside the Stratford half past the keeper 0-1. The lead was soon doubled when "Goal machine" yes i know folks the midfield general hit another long range shot from the right side that beat the keeper 0-2 and 2 in 2 games for DANIEL.

At half time some changes were made with Cain T and Sam being introduced to the action and as the second half got under way it was all Coundon pushing forward for more goals and 6 minutes in came the 3rd and what a goa,l Ben put in the perfect corner witch was met sweetly with a glancing header from JORDON. It left the keeper no chance 0-3 game over, as the game went on the lions still pushed on and went close with Cain T nearly opening his Coundon Court account after some cheeky play from the pocket rocket who showed he is growing into his new role this season working really hard for the team.

This was the best display by the new squad and they are starting to play together well and I know there were still a couple gears to go up today if needed. Tthe one thing that proved to me today what a great group of boy I have the pleasure of working with was the attitude that the boys showed at being subs and then being subbed during the game, with all the boys coming off with a smile and a high five. The fact that as the game finished I had Daniel, Matthew Harry and Owen all off resting...Happy days and well done boys.

Man of the match - Thomas - A master class in defending, never out of position and always playing the ball out from the back an absolute "Rock".

13/9/09

Coundon Court 3-0 Leamington Lions (H)

With the good weather came a bumper crowd at Coundon Court to see the Champions play their first home game of the season against Leamington Hibs. Over all the years of mini soccer this has been a fixture that everyone looks forward to as these are two teams that play the game the right way and there has been some fantastic games in the past so today had a lot to live up to and neither side disappointed.

The game kicked off and as expected the tempo was 100mph with both sides playing good football and the lions weren't having it all their own way as it was Hibs who settled down first and looked the more likely to score mounting some good attacks and if not for some good defending from the solid back line of Thomas and Daniel and some good handiwork from Jamie between the posts the lions could have found themselves behind.

Sam work his socks off on the left showing a wonderful work ethic for his team mates, Cain was working well in the middle and Owen was a pain for hibs on the right side with his speed. When coundon did break forward they didn't work the Hibs keeper enough though. 15 minutes in the deadlock was broken against the run of play as DANIEL picked the ball up outside of the area and lofted in a shot to the back post, (proving it wasn't a fluke against Brinklow last season) only for the keeper to fumble the ball and it fell over the line 1-0. The lions were ahead but only just.

At half time I am sure there were two very different team talks going on. From the away side it would probaly have been "keep going and you can win this". The home side meanwhile were told in no uncertain terms that for defending champions that type of performance was not acceptable and to go out and put it right.

A game of two half's?..........you bet!! Coundon went out and straight from the kick off nearly went 2 up and it was one way traffic for 25 minutes with Hibs hardly getting out of their half, Harry was doing what Harry does best, torment the defenders and me at times but he looked good setting up a number of chances. Jordon was now running the show in the middle winning every tackle and making some wonderful passes and it was only a matter of when and not if we would score again.

The second came from MATTHEW scoring his first of the season, reward for a wonderful personal performance 2-0 and the lions were in complete control. Wave after wave of Coundon pressure was met by some fantastic goalkeeping by the Hibs keeper stopping Matthew getting a hattrick and Harry certain goals. The third goal came and what a goal from what a player, a great all round move was finished off at the far post by BEN. The smile said it all and the response from the home fans showed the affection and high regard Ben is held in, and George did his Irish jig to celebrate, 3-0.

Chance after chance came Coundon's way and Kane A was unlucky not to open his goal account going close twice. In the last couple of minutes Hibs gave it a go and hit the underside of the bar with the ball bouncing to safety.

On the final whistle both teams and supporters knew they had played in and watched a great game of junior football, but then it always is between these two sides.

Man of the Match - Jordon - "captain marvel". A vintage display from the heartbeat of the team at the centre of everything, showing why he is feared by so many teams.

6/9/09

Coundon Court 1-0 Whitley Juniors (A)

With the preseason out of the way, finally it was down to the business of defending the Red league Championship and a tricky away game first up against a good Whitley team was always going to be a good test for the new squad.

The boys started well and were in control of the game but failure to take their chances in front of goal meant that at 0-0 the game was still anyones.

Wwith a changes made to the formation and Cain moving into the middle and Thomas dropping into his normal postion the Lion looked more at ease and really started to dominate. Cain bossed the midfield feeding the wingers who in turn gave the Whitley backline a torrid time with shots peppering the Whitley goal. The goal did come midway into the half from one of the old guard, the ball came free at the back post and HARRY slotted it past the keeper to get the Lions season under way.

At half time some changes were made and it showed what a strong squad we have this season; with Ben now on the left spraying some great passes around and Owen on the right driving forward with real purpose the game was one way traffic. Cain went close on a number of occasions and deserved a goal to cap off a great performance but the second goal wouldn't come though the boys were making some wonderful chances.

Whitley mounted some late pressure but were met by a brick wall by the name of Thomas who had an outstanding game at the back.

A job well done and win under our belts to start the new season there will be tougher tests ahead this year but the boys showed today that there is a great togetherness amongst the new squad and that is key to our success. On another day we might have scored double figures but we all know that Whitely have a very good keeper indeed. One game, one win, 3 points, good start boys.

Man of the Match - Cain T- Wonderful display from someone playing their first league game for the team. He ran the midfield and went close to scoring, showed good discipline to help out at the back when needed. The dream start to what I hope will be a long career with the Lions.

23/8/09 - Midland Championship Tournament - Aylestone Park

The double winning squad from last season travelled to Leicester to take part in the high quality and prestigious Midland Championship. The boys had a terrific day finishing runners up after losing 1-0 to Greenhill in a fantastic final played by two good footballing sides. The game looked as though it was going to penalties but a late strike settled the game. Ironically Greenhill lost only one game during the day... that was to Coundon Court 1-0 in the group stages!

Scorers on the day were Kane, Harry, Jordon, Owen and Matthew and the star players today were Jamie and Daniel.

For more info see the league website: http://www.coventryminorleague.com/