Notes from an AGM------------- 11 June 2009

Season ends with a draw------------- 17 May 2009

Gary Pilkington and Gary Cunningham combined well on the left but a succession of good crosses were well dealt with by the California defence while several shots either went high or wide.

The second half saw Taverners get on top but, once again, the California back-four were equal to everything and they missed one or two chances themselves in breakaways.

One such counter-attack saw California take the lead with about 15 minutes to go. This looked likely to be decisive as the tireless Tom Brooks saw a shot well-saved, James Horsfall's towering header was blocked on the line and Jason Riley - back from injury - shot narrowly wide.

Then a somewhat needless handball by a California defender resulted in a penalty and Lee Riley fired into the corner from the spot to give Taverners a last-gasp equaliser. The final whistle sounded almost immediately after the re-start.

The match was played in good spirit throughout and was controlled in excellent fashion by referee Ollie Morris-Sanders.

The Tavs squad - joined by reserve team members - enjoyed end-of-season refreshments afterwards, courtesy of Messrs Elvin and Fleming; thank you gentlemen.

Team: Stevens, Beaney, Bullamore (Sub: Hollinsworth), Horsfall, Pilkington (Sub: T Vincent), Southgate, Brooks, L Riley, Cunningham (Sub: Farris), Jacobs, J Riley




That's it! Season's over. Don't forget, End of Season presentation night is Thursday 4th June @ The Ice Bar.

Reserves Finish Third!------------- 10 May 2009

The Tavs were well on top throughout the first half but, despite forcing several corners and threatening through sam Burrows' long throws, it was a long time before they made the breakthrough.However, it was a goal worth the wait. A superb move over three-quarters of the length of the pitch ended with Jamie Brittain's pass to player-manager Trevor Hollinsworth who drove the ball high into the corner.

Shortly afterwards Taverners made it 2-0. Andy Lambert's presistence saw him force his way into the box and, when his shot was blocked, Hollinsworth smashed in the rebound for his 18th goal of the season.

In dominant form, the Tavs made it three when Sam Burrows' cross was headed in by Henry Chard and then Hollinsworth sent Luke Farris through to score his first goal for the club.

The game seemed to be petering out when a Rushmere penalty was converted by Mark Warden and then Rene Swann scored a second for them to give a final score of 4-2 in Taverners favour.

A sporting match was well-refereed by Adrian Dawson.

This fifth win on the trot for the reserves ensured them 3rd place in RM Division Two; a tremendous achievement.

Two Taverners players recently won medals with their Saturday clubs - Andrew 'Panda' Jacobs was outstanding as Ransomes Sports beat Grundisburgh to win the Omnico Cup, while Marty Smith never put a foot wrong in Achilles' Junior Cup Final victory over Old Newton United. Congratulations to both of you!

Team: A Smith, Chard, Bullamore, Lambert, Spivey (Sub: Holmes), Burrows, Mongan, Farris (Sub: Pilkington), Strutt, Hollinsworth, Brittain (Sub: Gledhill).




Next Week
On Sunday, the Tavs 1st team play their last game of the season, against California at Greshams, kick-off 10.15.

Reserves' good form continues------------- 3 May 2009

Taverners' recent run of good results meant that the match was important as both teams stood a chance of finishing in third place in the league. A hard-fought, fairly physical match ensued, full of incident throughout and well controlled by referee Steve Smith.

The windy conditions were difficult but Taverners took the lead after fifteen minutes, Henry Chard making the initial break forward and Sam Burrows' low cross being slammed home by Jamie Brittain.

Taydal fought back well and equalised with a neatly taken shot after a good build-up.

The second half saw the Tavs press forward and they regained the lead in a controversial incident, Trevor Hollinsworth crashing the ball home.

Sam Burrows was causing Taydal problems with his long throws and one of them bounced up and hit the bar before being cleared. Paul Strutt also struck the bar with a free-kick before he and the busy Eamon Mongan combined to give player-manager Hollinsworth the chance to sweep in his second goal for a 3-1 lead.

The Tavs defence had stood firm throughout but they were relieved to see goalkeeper Alex Smith produce two superb saves in the dying minutes to ensure the three points.

Team: A Smith, Chard (Sub: Valentine), Bullamore, Lambert, Spivey, Burrows (Sub: Atabaky), Mongan, Strutt, Farris, Hollinsworth, Brittain (Sub: Pilkington).




Next Week
Next Sunday the Tavs 1st team are again without a match. The reserves entertain Rushmere & Rust at Greshams, kick-off 10.15.

Photos from the night can be found here

First Team Fall but Reserves Run Riot------------- 26 April 2009

This determination saw Taverners begin the stronger side with Tom Brooks leading by example in midfield and it was fitting that Brooks should give the Tavs the lead when he drilled the ball home after a good build-up.

Unfortunately, a mistake allowed Unicorn a soft equaliser and they built on this to take the lead with a header from close range.

Taverners regained the initiative in the second half and put on a lot of pressure but our approach was not incisive enough to bring an equaliser and Unicorn held on to keep on track for the MB Division One championship; well done to them and challengers AC Ascio.

A match which had its feisty moments was well refereed by Steve Bassingthwaighte.

Team: D. Stevens, A Beaney, J Bullamore, J. Horsfall, B. Burgess, D. Southgate, L Riley, T.Brooks, G. Cunningham, A. Jacobs, G. Pilkington

Reserves
Felixstowe Harpers 0 Taverners Res. 5

The reserves visited Felixstowe Harpers reserves at Eastward Ho and, after Harpers had enjoyed the early play, the Tavs took the lead when Trevor Hollinsworth's cross was headed home by Marcus Webb for his first goal of the season.

With Paul Strutt and Eamon Mongan dominating in midfield, the Tavs got on top and another header from Webb was pounced on by Hollinsworth to make the score 2-0.

Taverners goalkeeper Alex Smith did well in the first half but he had less to do after the break as the Tavs took control. A long throw by Sam Burrows enabled Hollinsworth to score his second and then Vaughn Gledhill rose above the Harpers defence to head in number four.

Paul Strutt rounded the scoring off at 5-0 with a fine solo effort, winning the ball on the halfway line and running through to score. Referee Mike Moohan had a good game.

Team: A Smith, Chard (Sub: Valentine), Gledhill, Webb, Holmes, Burrows, Mongan, Strutt, Brittain (Sub: Farris), Hollinsworth (Sub: Aldred).

Next Week
On Sunday, Taverners reserves play host to Taydal in a RM Division 2 fixture at greshams, kick-off 10.15. The first team have no match.

Another 6 point weekend------------- 19 April 2009

Thanks also to Louis Dawson (who went on to referee the first team game in his usual impeccable style) and to Pauls FC for providing a last-minute referee for their encounter with Taverners reserves in the absence of an appointed official.

The three-week break endured by the Tavs first team showed as we were slow starters against Franco's. Gradually we began to produce some good crosses but Gary Pilkington had no luck with his headed efforts while other chances were blocked.

Unfortunately, Tavs live-wire striker Jason Riley suffered a twisted knee just before the break which is likely to end his action for the season. The club's best wishes go to him for a speedy recovery.

'Panda' Jacobs came on and made an immediate impact, working an opening with neat footwork before firing home.

Taverners general dominance led to over-confidence and California looked dangerous on the break, eventually taking advantage of a slip to equalise through Issi Etti - ironically, Taverners' youngest-ever goalscorer when he played for us a few years back!

The Tavs grabbed the winner when a long throw from Adam Beaney was nodded on by Jacobs and Gary Cunningham forced the ball home.

Once again, Daren Stevens did well in goal despite the blustery conditions.

Team: D. Stevens, A Beaney, J Bullamore, J. Horsfall, B. Burgess, D. Southgate, L Riley, T.Brooks, G. Cunningham, J. Riley (A. Jacobs), G. Pilkington (M. Pearson)

Reserves
Taverners Res. 3 Paul's 2

A long throw also brought Taverners reserves their first goal against Pauls - Sam Burrows' providing the chance for Andy Lambert to score at the near post.

Pauls equalised almost straight away and then went ahead just before half-time with the Tavs defenders left appealing for 'offside' to no avail.

The second half saw Taverners produce a much better performance with Andy Spivey and Eamon Mongan prominent in midfield. Paul Strutt provided the pass from which Trevor Hollinsworth equalised with a chip over the keeper from 18 yards.

With 15 minutes left, Andy Spivey's shot was too hot for the Pauls goalkeeper to hold and team-manager Hollinsworth netted the rebound to record a 3-2 win which staved off the threat of relegation.

Team: A Smith, H. Chard, A. Lambert, V. Gledhill, J. Holmes (sub: J. Valentine), S. Burrows, A. Spivey, A. Mongan, P. Strutt, J. Brittain (P. Bowman), T. Hollinsworth (T. Atabaky).

Next Week
This Sunday the first team entertain The Unicorn at Greshams in a fixture that could help decide the Championship, while Tavs reserves visit Felixstowe Harpers reserves at Dellwood Avenue and attempt to continue their climb up the table. Both matches kick-off at 10.15

Reserves shine in spotlight------------- 15 March 2009

Taverners scored first, Daren Stevens' persistence gaining possession and his well-placed cross from the left was met perfectly by Sam Burrows for his first goal of the season.

Gradually Kirby Street came into the game and they equalised on the half-hour with a near post header from a free-kick. Somewhat against the run of play, the Tavs regained the lead when Sam Burrows' pace enabled him to nick the ball past the onrushing keeper and fire home.

The first five minutes of the second half were extraordinary as Taverners blitzed Kirby Street with three goals to build up a 5-1 lead.

After only ten seconds of the re-start, Trevor Hollinsworth's chip saw Sam Burrows dart through and beat the keeper with a header to register his hat-trick. Then a Hollinsworth header across goal was blasted home by Gary Pilkington before Henry Chard kept his head to fire home. Chard had hit the post with a powerful 25-yarder in the first half.

All credit to Kirby Street for continuing to play football after this series of shocks and eventually they pulled one goal back only for Taverners to round things off with a left-footer from Paul Strutt for a 6-2 final scoreline.

The game was played in excellent spirit throughout with hardly a bad tackle or dispute.

This was a fine Taverners team performance in which everyone played their part, particularly Marcus Webb and Andy Lambert at the heart of the defence. The 'redundant' first team added good support and encouragement from the touchline.

Frustratingly, neither Tavs team has a match on Easter Sunday.

Team: A. Smith, H. Chard, M. Webb, A, Lambert, V. Gledhill (J. Holmes), S. Burrows (J. Brittain), T. Hollinsworth, K. Dawson (M. Aldred), D. Stevens, G. Pilkington.

Mixed Results------------- 15 March 2009

An energetic first half display by everyone on the Tavs side meant that we enjoyed much possession but too often our final ball went astray.

The nearest we came to a goal was a break by Tom Vincent which produced strong appeals for a penalty as he went down under a challenge with only the keeper to beat; we survived shouts for a spot-kick which were equally as loud later in the game so perhaps the incidents cancelled each other out!

Murray Rangers came into the game in the early stages of the second half but we contunued to fight for everything while James Horsfall shrugged off a knock to marshall the defence in style, doing well to block one dangerous effort.

We regained the initiative and, after Tom Vincent had hit the top of the bar with a chip over the keeper, Gary Cunningham produced a tremendous cross-field pass which put Duncan Southgate clear on the right. Duncan coolly rounded the keeper before beating a covering defender to score what turned out to be a deserved winning goal.

Team: D. Stevens, A Beaney, J Bullamore, J. Horsfall, B. Burgess, D. Southgate, L Riley, T.Brooks, G. Cunningham, T. Vincent, G. Pilkington (L. Farris)

Reserves
Paul's 3 Taverners Res. 1

A great day for football at a ground with excellent facilities and two sides in similar positions in the league. A perfect set up for a good game of football. Unfortunately for Taverners they had not got out of the dressing room in the first five minutes and in that time found themselves two nil down.

It was a blow which proves too hard to recover from. Tav's took stock and started to hold the game but were not really pressing.Pauls still looked the most dangerous. The most effective attacks were coming from the long throw ins from Sam Burrows. Marcus Webb caused some problems for Pauls by getting onto each throw.

It was one such attack which brought Tav's the first step to getting back into the game. Marcus Webb again got his head to the throw in and his flick was met by Trevor Hollinsworth at the front post to flick into the open net.

For a time it looked positive and Tav's began to press. But luck was just not going to go their way. From a corner Eamon Mongan met the cross with a glancing header which should have been the equaliser but Pauls keeper collected the ball and cleared which caught the whole Taverners defence asleep and left the Pauls forward with a one on one to beat Michael Parsley at the near post.

The second half although well contested went by without too much incident from either side. It is true to say that a number of Tav's team had a bad day. This needs to be addressed if the team is to improve. It was disappointing with such a strong side on the field.

Team: M. Parsley, H. Chard, M. Webb, V. Gledhill, J. Holmes, S. Burrows, E. Mongan, A. Lambert, T. Hollinsworth, K. Dawson. J. Brittain.
Subs A. Smith, M. Aldred, D. Marsh. All used

Next Week
No games next week.

500th Appearance presentation game------------- 15 March 2009

Baby Joy for the Spiveys--------------------- 16 March 2009

A Sunny 6 point Sunday--------------------- 15 March 2009

Another clear foul - this time Duncan Southgate being felled - brought a second spot-kick which Bullamore dispatched to give the Tavs a 2-1 interval lead.

Southgate produced a superb free-kick which was firmly headed home by James Horsfall for Taverners' third and then a handling offence gave James Bullamore the chance for his third which he netted in style from the spot.

Club statisticians confirmed afterwards that this was a 'first' for the Club although Gary Pilkington will be quick to point out that he did likewise in a Taverners reserves game a few years ago only to see the opposition withdraw and the result expunged!

Taverners seemed to be on course for an easy win until Cherrytree scored a second goal in a controversial incident where 'goalline technology' might have helped all concerned! With the Tavs completely distracted, a third goal was immediately conceded but Taverners held on for a 4-3 win.

Team: G. Cunningham, A Beaney, J Bullamore, J. Horsfall, B. Burgess, P. Strutt, L Riley, T.Brooks, D. Southgate, T. Vincent, G. Pilkington (J. Brittain)

Reserves - Trev' reaches 300!
Taverners Res 3 Eastern Elec 0

A perfect morning for football began with a presentation to Trevor Hollinsworth to mark his 300th game for the club.

With the pitch in excellent condition, for once, the game started well enough for Taverners but the final pass was just not good enough to get through the Eastern's defence. The game although well contested never really sparked into life. It was always going to be something out of the ordinary that was going to break the dead lock. Julian Holmes made progress on the left. His cross into the six yard box deceived the keeper and went straight into the top corner. Taverners pretty much controlled the game from here on in but it still did not really get going. Notable performances from Michael Parsley in goal and new signing Luke Farris.

The second half saw much of the same with neither side really causing any major problems. It was again a touch of luck which gave Tav's the second goal. A through ball was intercepted and passed back to the goalkeeper who somehow let the ball run under his foot into his own goal. With just ten minutes to go Taverners introduced a double substitution Mark Aldred And Nathan Sherman. It was these two who combined to score the third goal. Sherman latched onto a loose ball inside the 18yrd box. His shot was blocked and rebounded for Mark Aldred to head home.

Team: Parsley, Chard, Webb, Gledhill, Holmes, Burrows, Farris, Mongan, Lambert, Hollinsworth, Marsh (Subs:N Sherman, Aldred, Pearson)

Early promise, late disappointment--------------------- 8 March 2009

Taverners got their reward when a cross from Jason Riley was headed into the net superbly by raiding midfielder Gary Pilkington. Jason himself found the net minutes later after a good run and cross by Tom Vincent but the effort was ruled 'offside' and this probably proved the turning-point in the game.

In a niggly and physical battle, Unicorn had rarely troubled the Tavs defence up till then but suddenly an incisive move saw them break through to score a well-taken equaliser.

As the second-half wore on it became more and more likely that the next goal would clinch the points and so it proved, Unicorn again catching Taverners out with a swift attack to score. We had been pressed back on the defensive too often but the goal came from a breakaway.

Taverners found it difficult to raise their game until a late flurry of attacks but they were too little, too late. Earlier, Unicorn had earlier hit a post while Daren Stevens had saved well with his feet.

Team: D.Stevens, A Beaney, J Bullamore, J. Horsfall, B. Burgess, D. Southgate, L Riley, G Pilkington (T.Brooks), G. Cunningham, T. Vincent (A. Mongan), J. Riley

A Team photo and action shots from this match can be found here , courtesy of Trevor's snap happy fingers.

Next Week
On Sunday 15 March, Taverners 1st team are at home to Cherry Tree whilst the reserve team have a rearranged game away to Eastern Elec. OB.

A mixed bag--------------------- 1 March 2009

Taverners shrugged this off and the pace of Jason Riley and Tom Vincent caused the Trojans defence a few problems as they chased everything up front. Eventually the Tavs equalised when a well-directed free-kick from the influential and busy Lee Riley was headed home by James Horsfall for his first goal of the season.

Then a long ball by Adam Beaney was mis-handled by the Trojans keeper, Jason Riley was quick to react and gain possession and his cross-shot was forced home by Gary Cunningham to give the Tavs a 2-1 lead.

A good through ball by Lee Riley was deftly headed past the keeper by Jason for 3-1 but Trojans were far from finished and they took advantage of hesitancy in the Taverners defence to reduce the arrears.

More good work by Adam Beaney provided Jason Riley the opportunity to break through and fire home his second goal to make the score 4-2 at half-time.

Any hopes - or fears - of a continued goal-feast after the break died in a dour second half, with both defences tightening up their games and generally on top.

Referee Adrian Dawson had a good game, always in control of the proceedings.

Team: D.Stevens, A Beaney, J Bullamore, J. Horsfall, B. Burgess, D. Southgate, L Riley, G Pilkington, G. Cunningham, T. Vincent (D Marsh), J. Riley

Reserves
After a heavy defeat earlier in the season Taverners knew they had to be on their game. The weather was excellent but the pitch was to put it mildly more like a cow field. Even so Taverners did start well and took control early on with some of the best football seen from them this season.

Taverners took the lead after just 5 minutes when Mark Aldred made good ground on the right to deliver a good cross for Jamie Brittain to meet with a fine header which beat the keeper well. Taverners increased their grip on the game and Hadleigh were limited to very few chances.

After 30 mins a wayward cross by Hadleigh went completely over the 18yrd box. Somehow, during it's flight the referee judged that Andy Lambert had impeded one of their players from getting to the ball and awarded a penalty which was duly dispatched. It was a major gift to the floundering Hadleigh team and gave them the lift they did not deserve.

The second half saw the contest start to be more 50/50 but Hadleigh took the lead after keeper Alex Smith came for a ball which he did not claim. The ball deflected off Andy Lambert. Taverners were deflated and needed to pick up the game again. A few players in key area's were not involved enough in the game. But with the drive of Eamon Mongan Taverners started to recover.

Another blow when a blatant offside decision was not given everyone stopped including the Hadleigh forward but he tapped the ball into the goal anyway. The referee awarded the goal to the amazement of everyone. Rather than finish the game off this put Taverners firmly in the driving seat and they pressed for a way back. With just five minutes to go Eamon Mongan hit a superb half volley from 20yrds which easily beat the keeper.

With just minutes to go Taverners dominated. Trevor Hollinsworth hit the bar, Henry Chard headed against the post but somehow Hadleigh survived to win the points.

Team: A Smith, H Chard, A Lambert, M Webb, J Holmes, J Brittain, E Mongan, V Gledhill, P Strutt, M Aldred, T Hollinsworth (Subs: M Pearson, J Valentine).

Next Week
On Sunday, Taverners 1st team are away to Unicorn. There is no reserve team game.

Score Draw--------------------- 15th February 2009

The Tavs had produced a fine performance when the teams met early in the season but neither side could get on top in the early stages on Sunday.

Gradually Taverners forced the pace and a tremendous header back across the goal by Gary Cunningham gave Tom Brooks a chance. Gary Pilkington then hit the post from an angle and saw a later chance - from a difficult angle - go narrowly wide.

The second half saw Harpers start strongly and a header flashed wide. It was looking very likely that a single goal would secure all three points and Taverners thought they had clinched the win when an opportunist chip by Tom Vincent opened the scoring only minutes from time.

However, as so often happens, straight from the kick-off Harpers swept through and a neat move led to a well-struck equaliser.

Incredibly, both teams had chances to win in the closing moments of a hard-fought but generally sporting game.

Team: D.Stevens, A Beaney, J Bullamore, J. Horsfall, B. Burgess, D. Southgate (B. Cresswell), L Riley, T Brooks, G. Cunningham, G. Pilkington (T. Vincent), J. Riley

Reserves
The reserves travelled to Eastward Ho to play their return match against Felixstowe Harpers reserves but a 'mix-up' over pitches meant that the game was called-off. It was encouraging to see so many of the squad return to Greshams to support the first team.

Next Week
On Sunday, Taverners 1st team entertain Trojans at Greshams while the reserves visit Hadleigh Goldstar Athletic. Both games kick-off at 10.15 am.

Late spree earns Reserves win--------------------- 15th February 2009

The pitch at Greshams was playable although it naturally cut up and both teams put together an excellent encounter which was generally played in good spirits. Any over-enthusiastic challenges were quickly dealt with by referee Louis Dawson who, as usual, had a good game.

The early stages were even but gradually Taverners got on top and should really have led at half-time although Harpers will point to a moment at the other end when Alex Smith had to tip the ball onto the bar.

Harpers began the second half strongly and took the lead with 10 minutes gone when a neat move left the Tavs' defence spreadeagled and Alex Smith helpless. Harpers had a good spell and Smith was forced into another fine save while, on another occasion, he and Andy Spivey managed to scramble the ball away via a post!

Sam Burrows had been producing a succession of superb centres but it was beginning to look as if it would be 'one of those days' until, late in the game, a mis-punch by the Harpers' keeper was seized upon by Tom Vincent and he chipped the ball back into the net.

Almost immediately, Taverners took the lead when a Paul Strutt free-kick flew in and then a fine pass by Tom Vincent enabled Eamon Mongan to break through and score. Mongan then played in Daren Stevens for a coolly-taken fourth goal to round off a 4-1 Tavs' win.

All credit to both sides for a hard-fought game. The reverse fixture will be played this Sunday (at Eastward Ho) while Taverners' first team return to action with a home match against Felixstowe Harpers firsts at Greshams. Both games kick-off at 10.15 am.

Team: A Smith, H Chard, A Spivey, J Bullamore, J Holmes (Sub: M Pearson), S Burrows (Sub: J Valentine), E Mongan, P Strutt, J Brittain (Sub: D Marsh), D Stevens, T Vincent.

A Gallant Effort---------------------8th February 2009

The early play favoured Old Newton but the Tavs defended well, with Marcus Webb and Andy Lambert always in the thick of the action and Paul Strutt battling hard. We began to counter-attack and Mike Cura and Marcus both had snap-shots well saved.

Old Newton made the breakthrough with a good header but Taverners got on with the job and equalised just before half time. Sam Burrows' run in from the right ended with him rounded the goalkeeper but his shot was turned away by a defender. Sam's first corner was tipped round by the keeper but his second - this time from the right - was nodded on by Marcus webb and then headed firmly into the net by Andy Lambert at the far post.

The early part of the second half saw Old Newton come forward and Alex Smith made one flying save. Unfortunately, poor marking from a corner enabled Old Newton to score for a 2-1 lead.

We rarely made any real chances until the dying moments when Daren Stevens saw a close-range shot well blocked and the rebound from Andy Lambert - from the edge of the box - went just wide.

Despite the defeat, the Tavs gave a good showing against promotion-seeking opposition and were a little unlucky not to grab a point from the game.

Team: A Smith, H Chard, A Lambert, M Webb, J Holmes (Sub: M Aldred), S Burrows (Sub: M Pearson), K Dawson, P Strutt, J Brittain, D Stevens, M Cura.

Thriller in the Chiller---------------------1st February 2009

With the return of James Horsfall to the heart of our defence giving confidence, we showed great determination from the start and Jason Riley twice went close before Ascio took the lead with an untidy goal. Undeterred, the Tavs battled on but a second goal - scored just before the break - meant that we had a mountain to climb in the second half.

We pressed forward after half-time and stretched the Ascio defence with some good runs but at the half way stage we were still two goals adrift.

Suddenly it all changed. Jason Riley took advantage of some hesitant defending to chip home and then great persistence saw us regain possession and Jason spotted the keeper off his line and arrowed his shot into the far corner from some distance.

With Ascio rocked, another Tavs attack saw Bevan Burgess surge into the penalty area and then unleash a tremendous shot over the keeper and in off the bar for a winner which was celebrated in style!

We were grateful to Marty Smith for one superb save and safe hands all morning while a special vote of thanks must go to Paul Strutt for stepping in at the last moment as referee. Strutty showed great calmness and authority in a highly competitive match.

Thanks also to referee Les King for the loan of flags and whistle.

Team: M.Smith, A. Beaney, J. Bullamore, J. Horsfall, B. Burgess, D. Southgate, L. Riley, G. Pilkington, G. Cunningham, D.Stevens, J. Riley

Reserves

Watch this space!
Reserve team:

Next Week

Next week the 1st team entertain Unicorn, whilst the reserves are away against Old Newton.

Another blank week---------------------25th January 2009

Next week's PLANNED fixtures are:

1st v Ascio (h)

Res. v Holbrook Swann (a)

A weekend to forget---------------------20th January 2009

Ascio opened the scoring with a superbly taken goal which rounded off a swift counter-attack and this set the standard of their finishing as they swept into a 3-0 lead by half-time and ended one short of a completely embarrassing double-figure total.

Everyone in the Taverners camp will be relieved not to have too much detail of the play but, in fact, we enjoyed a fair amount of possession and might well have scored more than our one goal, put away with a cracking shot by Adam Beaney in the dying minutes for his first goal for the club.

Thanks must go to David Vincent for running the Tavs line - a particularly disheartening miserable job when things are going so badly wrong. Even more miserable was Bob's discovery that he had left his football boots at Rendlesham, which meant a return trip in the afternoon to collect them!

Team: A.Smith, A. Beaney, J. Bullamore, D. Southgate, B. Burgess, M. Cura, L. Riley, T. Brooks, G. Cunningham, G. Pilkington, J. Riley

Reserves

It is very hard to give a report on this game. We had not played for three weeks and needed a game. Perhaps our need for a game out weighed the fact that the pitch was very heavy and close to being unplayable.

Unfortunately, as has been reported in other match reports, players have other commitments at times which force changes to the team. Normally you would only see a couple of these in any one week, but this week we lost 7 players from the starting line up. The worst part was that this game was important in that it was the last chance of winning something this year for the reserves.

Although we were beaten 8-0 I can honestly say if we had the team we wanted to field we could have won through to the next round. We never really got going in the game and were under pressure from the start. Two insane own goals and a dropped cross later and we were 3-0 down.

The game never improved even though we changed things. The only glimmer of light was the last ten minutes when the visitors were relaxing and we started to find a few openings but to no avail.

Lets just hope we never have to face this many changes in one week again.

Reserve team: M Parsley, H Chard, V Gledhill, A Lambert, J Holmes, S Burrows, T Hollinsworth, P Bowman, M Aldred, M Pearson, J Brittain (Sub: J Valentine).

Next Week

No first team game again next week. However, the reserves are at home to Pauls, weather and pitch permitting!

New Year's Freeze 2---------------------11th January 2009

New Week's planned fixtures are:

1st Team away to Ascio in the Senior Cup

Reserves Home to GB Glasswells in the Junior Cup

New Year's Freeze---------------------4th January 2009

However, with the weather experts predicting a continuation of the cold snap, who knows when the first football of the New Year will be played.

A bit of Xmas Cheer---------------------28th December 2008

The Club's playing resources were stetched to the limit last Sunday with a number of members away, unavailable or injured but both teams saw action on a frosty but sunny morning.

Taverners' first team visited California and settled down to play some open football on a good Gainsborough Sports Centre surface. Several chances were created by good use of the wings but they were wasted. Gary Pilkington did find the net but the effort was ruled out for a foul on the keeper.

The Tavs found little fluency after the break but managed to take the lead after an hour's play, Gary pilkington being brought down when clean through and James Bullamore netting the spot-kick.

California enjoyed a good deal of possession in the search for an equaliser and forced Daren Stevens into one finger-tip save. However, Taverners defended well while Tom Brooks and Lee Riley continued their tireless work in midfield and the one goal proved enough to secure all three points.

The game was generally played in good spirit and was handled well by referee Dave Barber.

Team: Stevens, Beaney, Southgate, Bullamore, Burgess, T. Vincent, L. Riley, Brooks, Cunningham, Pilkington, J. Riley

Reserves

Taverners reserves entertained Kirby Street Conservative Club at Greshams and, with the team showing six changes from the previous Sunday and three players having to battle on through injuries, it was always going to be hard going.

Very few chances went to either team in the first half and the second period started in the same way until Andy Spivey conceded a penalty which was struck well. Kirby Street took control and the Tavs only threatened in short spells.

Two more Kirby Street goals made the score 3-0 but pride seemed to drive Taverners forward and, after Paul Strutt scored when he found himself clear in the box, the Tavs gave it a 'good go' for the last 10 minutes.

We were grateful to Dave Vincent (1st team) and Club Chairman Pat Elvin (reserves) for acting as Tavs club assistants to the referees on a bitterly cold morning.

Reserve Team: M Parsley, M Pearson, A Spivey, A Lambert, J Holmes, P Strutt, E Mongan, P Bowman, K Dawson, T Hollinsworth, T Griggs

On Sunday 4 January Taverners first team entertain Franco's at Greshams while the reserves visit Eastern Electricity Old Boys at Whitton Sports Centre. Both matches kick-off at 10.15 am.

In the meantime, best wishes for the New Year are extended to Tavs club members and supporters, opposing teams and to the refereeing fraternity.

Fourth time lucky---------------------21st December 2008

The first team at last managed to play their much-postponed League Senior Cup tie against Margaret Catchpole at Greshams on Sunday.

A half-clearance gave the Catchpole the chance to take an early lead but Taverners pressed forward and some tenacious work from Tom Vincent created space for Jason Riley who finished powerfully to level the scores.

A crossfield ball from the dominant Adam Beaney released Jason Riley who was brought down for a penalty which James Bullamore converted.

The next goal was going to be vitally important and Taverners scored it immediately after half-time, Gary Pilkington finding Jason Riley who chipped the keeper to give Taverners a 3-1 lead. Bevan Burgess was then the provider with a deep cross and Jason Riley bravely beat the keeper to the ball to head home for his hat-trick.

Gary Cunningham then made a tremendous run and played in Tom Brooks for number five. With the Catchpole struggling, Jason Riley burst through and unselfishly squared to Gary Pilkington who fired home to round off a 6-1 win.

Those not directly involved in the Taverners goals also played their parts in a fine team performance - Duncan Southgate alert at the back and Lee Riley influential and tireless in midfield - while skipper Daren Stevens, a late goalkeeping choice, produced a string of fine saves including one sequence of blocks which had to be seen to be believed; superb, Daren!

Thanks also to David Vincent for his efforts in running the Taverners line.

Team: Stevens, Beaney, Southgate, Bullamore, Burgess, T. Vincent, L. Riley, Brooks, Cunningham (S. Vincent), Pilkington, J. Riley

Reserves

Taverners reserves made the long haul to Worlingworth with the bare eleven but the team contained real quality and a great result was secured.

Although Worlingworth took the lead early on, the Tavs fought back and equalised when Eamon Mongan - strong and dominating in midfield - found Trevor Hollinsworth and the player-manager rounded the keeper before scoring.

Hollinsworth then put Taverners ahead at the second attempt following a long through-ball from Henry Chard.

The goal-of-the-game followed. An indirect free-kick was blocked and fell to Henry Chard 25 yards out and he struck a fine volley into the top corner to give Taverners a 3-1 win.

Team: A Smith, H Chard, A Lambert, A Spivey, J Holmes, M Cura, P Bowman, E Mongan, J Brittain, T Hollinsworth, M Aldred.

Experienced referees Julian Gibbons (1st team) and Peter Taylor (reserves) both had good games.

Next Sunday (28 December), the first team visit California (at Gainsborough) while the reserves entertain Kirby Street Conservative Club at Greshams. Both matches kick-off at 10.15.

Rain Stops play (again!)---------------------14th December 2008

I don't won't to type "I told you so" but.....please see my notes from Sunday 23rd November!

An attempt will be made to play this fixture for the 4th time this Sunday, 21st December, whilst the reserves are due to be away at Worlingworth.

Reserves progress in Cup, 1st team stutter in league --------------------- 7th December 2008

Playford 1 - 0 Taverners

After two blank Sundays - one caused by snow and the second by rain leading to waterlogged pitches - both Taverners teams were in action on Sunday, but with mixed results.

The first team visited Playford at Farlingaye School and their promotion hopes suffered a blow with a 1-0 defeat which was so frustrating, given the large amount of possession Taverners enjoyed.

From the first minute, when Gary Cunningham's strong run nearly brought a goal, to the final whistle, when they forced the last of many corners, Taverners pressed forward but lacked the final pass or shot against a resolute Playford defence who were supported by a superb goalkeeping display.

Daren Stevens hit the top of the bar with a header, Lee Riley saw a fine shot tipped over and Mike Cura hit a post but these were the Tavs' best efforts and Playford won the game with a well taken goal midway through the second half.

Adam Beaney had a strong game for Taverners and was most unlucky to suffer a knee injury late in the game.

Team: M Smith, Beaney (Bowman), Bullamore, Southgate, Burgess, Vincent, Brooks, Riley, Cunningham (Cura), Stevens, Pilkington.

RESERVES

Bramford Angel 3 - 4 Taverners Reserves

With the Greshams pitches unplayable, Taverners reserves switched their League Junior Cup tie to Whitton Sports Centre, the home of opponents Bramford Angel. Despite giving up home advantage, Taverners began well and it was a shock when Bramford scored first.

To their credit, the Tavs kept pressing and they were rewarded when Eamon Mongan sent a precise pass through for player manager Trevor Hollinsworth to score with a powerful shot.

Both teams had their moments before more bad defending by Taverners enabled Bramford to regain the lead at 2-1 but the Tavs got on top during the second half and they levelled the scores again when Marcus Webb headed down a corner and Eamon Mongan gathered the ball with his back to goal and spun to fire home from close range.

A through ball from Marcus Webb enabled to Trevor Hollinsworth to score from 20 yards for 3-2 lead but this time it was Bramford's turn to fight back with a well-hit shot from 25 yards to make the score 3-3.

New Tavs signing Tim Griggs (substituting early-on for the injured Andy Lambert) was causing the Bramford defence major problems as were Jamie Brittain and Eamon Mongan but it was Trevor Hollinsworth who completed the scoring and his own hat-trick with the winning goal after excellent work by Brittain and Mongan's lay-off left Hoolinsworth with a 20 yard volley to take the win and a place in the next round and to reach his 180 goals for the club!

Another sporting game, well handled by referee Graham Apperley.

Team: A Smith, J Holmes, A Spivey, A Lambert (Sub: T Griggs), M Pearson, J Brittain, E Mongan, P Strutt, M Aldred (Sub: J Valentine), T Hollinsworth, M Webb.

This coming Sunday, Taverners first team will try to entertain Margaret Catchpole at Greshams in their twice-postponed League Senior Cup tie, kick-off 10.15 am. The reserves have no game.

Rain stops play-------- 30th November 2008

Snow chance of playing-------- 23rd November 2008

Gary joins 500+ Club.-------- 17th November 2008

4 point haul for Club.-------- 17th November 2008

Taverners 1st team game against Murray Rangers at Greshams was preceded by a presentation to Gary Cunningham to celebrate his 500th game for the Club.

A marvellous achievement and Cunningham went on to play his part to the full in a solid Taverners performance.

Settling down to play some good football depite the heavy conditions, Taverners took the lead midway through the half when Jason Riley crossed well and a defender headed into his own net.

Within two minutes it was 2-0, Lee Riley's free-kick being forced home by Tom Brooks at the far post. A third goal would have settled it before half-time but Jason Riley was unlucky to hit the bar in a frantic goalmouth scramble.

Murray Rangers came back in the second half and reduced the arrears when a free-kick was touched in. However, Taverners defended well with Adam Beaney making one superb clearance close to his own goal and they made the score 3-1 through a Andrew 'Panda' Jacobs penalty after Jason Riley had been upended.

The tireless Tom Brooks rounded things off at 4-1, blasting the ball in from Lee Riley's free-kick.

The game was played in sporting spirit and well handled by referee Alan Knock.

Team: 1st: A Smith, A Beaney, A Jacobs, D Southgate, B Burgess, T Vincent, T Brooks, L Riley, G Cunningham (J Brittain), G Pilkington, J Riley

RESERVES

Taverners reserves visited Rushmere & Rust with a line-up subject to first team calls. This can be frustrating when you are facing one of the better teams in the division but it is rewarding when the players brought in do the job and all perform well.

Before the game, the Tavs would have taken a draw but, by the end of the game, this almost felt like 2 points lost.

The opening exchanges were even, Michael Parsley in the Taverners goal making three outstanding saves to keep the scores level. Rushmere eventually took the lead when Rene Swann had a hit-and-hope shot from 30 yards which bounced awkwardly in front of the luckless Michael Parsley and hit him in the face, deflecting into goal.

Apart from this unfortunate incident, Parsley did very well.

To their credit, Taverners kept pressing and, with just minutes to go to half-time, Henry Chard fired goalwards and Mark Aldred finished it off with a superb back-flick for 1-1 at the break.

The second half saw Taverners take more control and it was a shock when Rushmere regained the lead, a corner being flicked on at the front post and somehow going over the head of the post defender.

Undeterred, the Tavs continued to press and they were rewarded when a corner was flicked on and Paul Strutt headed strongly into the roof of the net.

Further chances fell to both sides but Taverners were unlecky not to take all three points.

Team: M Parsley, H Chard, A Lambert, A Spivey, M Pearson, M Aldred, P Bowman, E Mongan, P Strutt, S Swann, T Hollinsworth.

Next Sunday, both Taverners' teams have Cup games, the 1st team facing Margaret Catchpole (in the League Senior Cup) and the reserves playing Bramford Angel (in the Junior Cup). The games will be played at Greshams, kick-off 10.15.

A Sunday to forget! -------- 9th November 2008

After a week when both Taverners teams were idle, Sunday saw the first team visit AC Ascio at Rendlesham in a top-of-the-table clash.

Ascio drew first blood with a superb goal, struck from 35 yards which gave Marty Smith no chance. The rest of the half saw Ascio play some good football and look dangerous going forward, forcing Taverners to defend and rely on counter-attacks.

Taverners had a good spell early in the second half and a strong appeal for hand-ball on the goalline was turned down while one or two chances for an equaliser were wasted.

Ascio went two goals up from a corner and then scored a third with another excellent strike. However, Taverners never gave up and a great run and cross from Tom Brooks gave Daren Stevens the chance to force the ball in at the far post for a consolation goal.

Taverners were still attacking at the final whistle but acknowledged a good performance by Ascio in a generally sporting match.

Team: 1st: M Smith, J Bullamore (J. Holmes), A Jacobs, D Southgate, B Burgess, T Vincent, T Brooks, G Pilkington, G Cunningham, D Stevens, J Riley

RESERVES

Taverners reserves entertained Holbrook Swan - new to the Flare League from the LTL - and managed by ex-Tavs stalwart of many years, Martyn O'Leary.

The knowledge that Holbrook were unbeaten left no doubt that a hard game was ahead and a change in formation to five across the middle enabled Taverners to hold their own until half-time at 0-0. Andy Lambert was outstanding in the Tavs defence while Eamon Mongan showed fine touches in midfield.

However, with the wind at their backs and certain decisions going against the Tavs, Holbrook took control in the second half and were rarely troubled as they ran out 3-0 winners.

Reserves: A Smith, H Chard, A Spivey, A Lambert, R Fisk, P Strutt, P Bowman, A Beaney, E Mongan, T Hollinsworth, M Pearson Subs: M Aldred, M Parsley, T Atabaky.

This Sunday, Taverners first team play host to Murray Rangers at Greshams in a MB Div. 1 game while the reserves visit Rushmere and Rust. Both games kick-off at 10.15.

Wedding Bells! -------- 4th November 2008

Mixed Fortunes -------- 26th October 2008

The first team visited Trojans at Rushmere Sports Centre and a tremendous match ensued - a credit to Sunday League football and well refereed by Louis Dawson.

Playing some fine football at times in the driving rain, Taverners made the breakthrough when Lee Riley found Tom Vincent with a superb pass and, with the goalkeeper challenging, the ball broke loose for Gary Pilkington to score.

Daren Stevens then beat the offside trap, following good build play from Pilkington and Brooks, to net Taverners' second but Trojans came back to score from a corner just before half-time.

The early stages of the second half saw Trojans press forward but Duncan Southgate, in defence, and Tom Brooks, tireless and influential in midfield, caught the eye as Taverners weathered the storm.

Taverners finished the stronger side and rounded off their win with a clinical shot from Gary Pilkington from a Daren Stevens head-on.

There was still time for Marty Smith to distinguish himself with a superb save which maintained Taverners' 3-1 advantage.

Thanks go to Matt Pearson for 'running' the line for 90 mins. in difficult conditions from both the weather and home support!

Team: 1st: M Smith, J Bullamore, A Jacobs, D Southgate, B Burgess, T Vincent, T Brooks, L Riley, G Cunningham, D Stevens, G Pilkington

RESERVES

Taverners reserves began well at home to Hadleigh Goldstar and, after Philip Bowman had twice gone close, Trevor Hollinsworth gave them the lead - rounding the keeper in style - after a neat build-up.

A disputed free-kick led to Hadleigh equalising and then some good fortune in the box saw a mis-kicked shot reach a supporting Hadleigh forward who made it 2-1.

Despite Hadleigh being reduced to 10 men in the second half, Taverners never really looked like catching them. A very well-taken goal from Philip Bowman was the only second half highlight for Taverners as defensive errors let Goldstar build a 5-2 lead.

Referee Sharon Burman had a good game.

Reserves: A Smith, H Chard, A Spivey, M webb, J Valentine, R Fisk, A Lambert, M Cura, P Strutt, T Hollinsworth, A Bowman (Subs: S Swann, M Parsley).

Both Taverners teams are idle next Sunday (2 November). The first team's scheduled opponents, Coddenham, have withdrawn from the league while Pauls are in Sunday Shield action.

And to finish, congratulations to Adam & Lisa on the arrival of Nola Ruth Beaney, born on 26 October, weighing 7lbs 13 oz.

First Team 'Even Stevens' whilst reserves progress in cup-------- 19th October 2008

The first team showing several changes - mainly positional - visited Cherrytree at Holywells High School and settled down well, taking the lead when Duncan Southgate's corner was firmly headed in by Tom Brooks. Another Southgate corner gave Daren Stevens the opportunity to force home the second Taverners goal.

The side seemed to consider the job was done and a penalty, awarded for a handling offence, brought Cherrytree back into the game. Dead-ball situations were causing both sides problems on the narrow pitch and Cherrytree took advantage of hesitancy to score an equaliser.

The second half saw Taverners gradually get on top and another Duncan Southgate corner was bundled in by Daren Stevens to put Taverners 3-2 up. Stevens then completed his hat-trick - his first for the Club - with a header from Southgate's free-kick.

Cherrytree continued to chase everything and a fierce shot was tipped onto the bar by the debut-making Michael parsley. In a final few minutes which were extremely disappointing from Taverners' viewpoint, Cherrytree came back to grab a point with two goals which made the final score 4-4.

Team: M Parsley, H Chard, J Bullamore, A Jacobs, G Pilkington, D Southgate, T Brooks, K Dawson (Sub: J Valentine), G cunningham, D Stevens, T Vincent.

RESERVES

Taverners reserves entertained Great Blakenham in the League Junior Cup on a perfect Greshams pitch and both teams showed up well early on. Taverners looked dangerous going forward and were rewarded when an exchange of passes between Andy Lambert, Trevor Hollinsworth and Mike Cura left Cura clean through and he made no mistake.

Although both teams had opportunities during the remainder of the game, in the Taverners defence Marcus Webb and Andy Spivey were a solid combination, and, with no further score, Taverners went through to the next round.

Team: A Smith, R Fisk, A Spivey, M webb, C Banyard, Ja Brittain, M cura, A Lambert, A Beaney, T hollinsworth, P Bowman (Sub: M Pearson).

Next Sunday, the first team visit old rivals Trojans (at Rushmere Sports Centre) while the reserves play host to Hadleigh Gold Star - another team with whom Taverners have enjoyed many great 'battles' over the years.

Fog on the line! -------- 12th October 2008

On Sunday, the first team visited Franco's at a fog-shrouded Gainsborough Sports Centre. The playing surface was excellent and suited Taverners' football as they gradually gained control of the first half with some speedy attacking.

A pacy move led to Taverners taking the lead, Jason Riley bursting through and providing the opportunity for Gary Cunningham to score. A similar pattern brought Taverners a second goal, this time Tom Vincent crossing for Daren Stevens to score. Stevens made it 3-0 with a header into the corner from Gary Pilkington's cross.

Although three goals behind, Franco's never gave up and pressed forward after the break. They had forced Marty Smith into one superb save in the first half and Smith had to finger-tip another effort onto the bar late in the game.

Franco's were rewarded by a headed consolation but, if their finishing had been better, Taverners could have been in trouble.

TEAM:M Smith, J Bullamore, A Jacobs, D Southgate, G Pilkington, T Vincent, L Riley, T Brooks, G Cunningham, D Stevens, J Riley.

RESERVES

The reserves entertained Eastern Electricity Old Boys at Greshams and fell behind through an error which presented the visitors with an easy chance.

Taverners came back and opportunities were plentiful, Eamon Mongan, Paul Strutt and Trevor Hollinsworth all going close.

The whole of the second half saw Taverners pressing for an equaliser but somehow they couldn't score. However, with 15 minutes to go, a free-kick from Andy Lambert was met by Paul Strutt who played through for Trevor Hollinsworth to score.

Some disputed decisions played their part in enabling Eastern Electricity to hold on for a point.

Team: M Parsley, H Chard, A Lambert, P Bowman, C Banyard, P Strutt, K dawson, E Mongan, B Burgess, T Hollinsworth, M Cura. Sub: M Pearson.

Next Sunday the Taverners first team visit Cherrytree (in a League game)while the reserves entertain Great Blakenham in the League Junior Cup.

No Training Thursday 16th October -------- 8th October 2008

Let's concentrate on the Leagues! -------- 6th October 2008

For the third year running, Taverners first team travelled to Chantry Park to meet Belstead Arms in a Sunday Cup tie and the result was a typically hard-fought game between two committed sides.

Tom Brooks was unlucky to hit a post for Taverners but they made the breakthrough after 15 minutes when Daren stevens saw his first effort blocked but managed to head home the rebound. Belstead put on great pressure and hit a post while Marty Smith made another flying save. Belstead grabbed an equaliser but Taverners regained the lead through a thunderbolt from James Bullamore, who was at least 45 yards out.

Belstead were being kept at bay by some tigerish play - particularly from Tom Brooks - but, with 18 minutes left, their pressure paid off with a superb shot which made the score 2-2.

Taverners were rocked when a penalty put Belstead ahead for the first time and, as they chased the game in the dying minutes, they were caught out again for a 5-2 final score which does scant justice to the hard work the whole Taverners team put in.

Team: Smith, Bullamore, Southgate, Jacobs, Burgess, Riley, Pilkington, Brooks, Cunningham (Strutt), Stevens, Vincent. (Unused Sub: Chard)

RESERVES

The reserves entertained Kesgrave Exiles in the Sunday Shield at Greshams. A defensive slip allowed Kesgrave in to open the scoring but - in a game of very few chances - Eamon Mongan was unlucky to see a well-struck shot blocked by the keeper at the other end. A goalmouth scramble led to Mongan equalising for Taverners 10 minutes into the second half and more penetration might have seen the home side ahead.

As it was, Kesgrave won the match when a speculative ball into the box was deflected home. Once again, Marcus Webb caught the eye, initially defending and then as a striker as Taverners pursued an equaliser.

Both Belstead Arms and Kesgrave Exiles go forward to the next stages of the respective County competitions with Taverners' best wishes. Team: A smith, M Pearson, A Lambert, M Webb, A Beaney, M Cura, K dawson, E Mongan, M aldred, T Hollinsworth, J Brittain (Subs: P Bowman, R Fisk).

Reserves off the Mark -------- 28th September 2008

Taverners played some good football on the superb Greshams surface but too often the final pass or cross was hurried. On other occasions, Worlingworth defended well and their goalkeeper's handling was safe. Suddenly, a Taverners defensive slip was punished and Worlingworth - backed by a good number of supporters - took the lead.

The second half saw Taverners continue to press forward and, after a few narrow misses, player-manager Trevor Hollinsworth had the vital final touch during a frantic goalmouth scramble to equalise. Adam Beaney was enjoying an impressive first full game for Taverners and his long throw was headed in by Daren Stevens to put his side 2-1 up.

A great move led to Paul Strutt crossing and Trevor Hollinsworth finishing clinically and then Hollinsworth played Stevens in for Taverners fourth, a low shot past the keeper. There was still time for Alex Smith to make a fine save to prevent a Worlingworth consolation.

Once again this season, two Flare League teams produced a sporting encounter, well handled by referee Steve Bassingthwaite.

Next Sunday sees both Taverners teams on County Cup duty. The first team visit Belstead Arms in the Sunday Cup while the reserves play host to Kesgrave Exiles in the Sunday Shield.

Team: A Smith, H Chard, M Webb, A Lambert, A Beaney, M Cura, E Mongan, K Dawson, P Strutt, D Stevens, T Hollinsworth (Subs: M Aldred, G Pilkington, J Brittain)

First Team continue good start -------- 22nd September 2008

The team were boosted by an early goal, Jason Riley's persistence regaining possession and Daren Stevens latching onto his cross to score.

Harpers produced a fine move to equalise just before half time but there was still time for Taverners to regain the lead, Gary Cunningham powering a header home from Lee Riley's corner.

Tom Brooks produced a precise through ball for Jason Riley to make the score 3-1 and then Brooks flicked a back-header past the Harpers keeper for Taverners' fourth.

Harpers had enjoyed a good amount of possession and they pulled a goal back but good work by Daren Stevens led to Jason Riley making it 5-2. Riley then hit an unstoppable shot from distance to complete his hat-trick and round off a 6-2 win for Taverners.

This was a solid team performance with everyone playing their part - even after James Horsfall's injury forced a re-shuffle. Referee Rod Doctor also had an excellent game.

Season starts with mixed results -------- 16th September 2008

Playford took the lead from a corner immediately after half-time but Taverners came back straight away and equalised through a cracking shot from Jason Riley following good work by Tom Brooks. A shot from Brooks was then handled on the line and James Bullamore confidently fired home the resulting penalty before Gary Cunningham scored number three. Jason Riley rounded off a solid start to the season with his second goal which made the score 4-1.

The game was played in good spirit throughout, well controlled by referee Paul Jenkins.

Taverners Reserves visited Taydal - new to the Flare League - at Bourne Vale in RM Division Two and were very much second-best early on, conceding three goals, mainly through defensive errors.

The team was more of a unit in the second half with Mike Cura in good form in midfield and Marcus Webb showing up well both at the back and later in the game up front following a re-shuffle. Cura and Matt Pearson pulled goals back for Taverners in a final 2-4 scoreline.

2008/09 Season Fixtures -------- 3rd September 2008

The fixtures for the 2008/09 Season have been announced!

		 1st team - Div. 1 (MB)		Result|	2nd team - Div. 2 (RM)			Result	
						      |	
Sept	14th	 Playford	h	 	4-1   |	Taydal				a	4-2
	21st	 Felixstowe Harpers	 a	2-6   |
	28th			 		      |	Worlingworth			h       4-1
					              |
Oct	 5th	 Belstead Arms - S/Cup 2 a	5-2   |	Kesgrave Exiles - S/Shield 2	h	1-2
	12th	 Franco's	         a	3-1   |	Eastern Electricity OB		h       1-1
	19th	 Cherry Tree		 a	4-4   |	Great Blakenham - Jun. Cup	h	1-0
	26th	 Trojans	         a	1-3   |	Hadleigh Goldstar Athletic	h       2-5
					              |
Nov	2nd	 		          *	      |					 *
	9th	 Ascio	                 a	3-1   |	Holbrook Swan			h	0-3
	16th	 Murray Rangers 	 h	4-1   |	Rushmere & Rust			a       2-2
	23rd	 Mgt Catchpole (S. Cup)  h	P-P   |	Bramford Angel (Junior Cup)     h       P-P
	30th	 Mgt Catchpole (S. Cup)  h	P-P   |	Bramford Angel (Junior Cup)     h       P-P
					              |
Dec	7th	 Playford	         a *	1-0   |	Bramford Angel (Junior Cup)     a       3-4
	14th	 Mgt Catchpole (S. Cup)  h	P-P   |	
	21st	 Mgt Catchpole (S. Cup)  h	6-1   |	Worlingworth			a       1-3
	28th	 California		 a	0-1   |	Kirby Street Con Club		h       1-3
					              |
Jan	4th	 Franco's		 h	P-P   |	Eastern Electricity OB		a       P-P
	11th	 Cherry Tree		 h	P-P   |	Felixstowe Harpers reserves	h       P-P
	18th	 Ascio (S. Cup)		 h	9-1   |	GB Glasswells (Jnr Cup)         h       0-8
	25th	 			 	      |	Pauls				h	p-p
					              |
Feb	1st	 Ascio			 h	3-2   |	Holbrook swan			a       0-7
	8th	 Unicorn		 h	P-P   |	Old Newton S & S		a       2-1
	15th	 	      			      |	Felixstowe Harpers res.		h       4-1
	22nd	 Felixstowe Harpers	 h	1-1   | Felixstowe Harpers res.		a       P-P
					              |
Mar	1st	 Trojans		 h	4-2   | Hadleigh Gold star              a       3-2
	8th	 Unicorn	         a      2-1   |
	15th	 Cherry Tree		 h      4-3   | Eastern Electric OB		a       0-3
	22nd	 Murray Rangers		 a      0-1   | Pauls				a       3-1
	29th				              |
					              |
Apr	5th				              | Kirby Street Con Club		a       2-6
	12th	 Easter		 		      |	Easter
	19th	 Franco's		 h	2-1   | Paul's				h	3-2
	26th	 Unicorn                 h      1-2   | Felixstowe Harpers Res.		a       0-5
	30th     ****************************500 Appearance presentation game**********************
						Ipswich Wanderers 7:30 KO

May     3rd					      | Taydal    			h       3-1
	10th     				      | Rushmere & Rust                 h       4-2
	17th     California		 h      1-1   |
		 				      	

											

Belgium 2008 Video ------------ 22nd July 2008

2008/09 Cup Draws ------------ 14th July 2008

Sunday Shield draw: 5 October - 2nd round: reserves v. Kesgrave Exiles (home)

2008/09 Pre-Season Friendlies --------- 14th July 2008

2007/08 AGM Report ---------------- 10th July 2008

The Club's annual general meeting took place at Greshams on 2 July.

The existing Club Committee was duly elected, as follows:

Pat Elvin (Chairman), Frank Fleming (Secretary), Bob Bullamore (Treasurer/1st team manager), Trevor Hollinsworth (2nd team manager), Tom Brooks, James Bullamore, Bevan Burgess, Julien Holmes and Daren Stevens.

The 1st team will wear all-maroon next season while the reserves will play in sky shirts and navy blue shorts and socks.

The team managers gave playing reports.

This was a season which promised much but ended in the team being ‘so near and yet so far’ from success – but this was judging us by high standards because we had two good cup runs (one to the semi final stage) and finished our league season in third place which – in the past – would have been enough for promotion.

From the start, we felt that the team had been strengthened enough to challenge for the title but, while some of our results were outstanding, too often a ‘rogue result’ crept in. These draws and defeats – sometimes against unfancied sides – finally cost us promotion.

Often when you are looking for ‘high points’ in a season, only one or two come to mind but this year there were quite a number….league wins over Bramford United OB and Coddenham (both home and away) and cup wins over Belstead Arms, The Rosary, Woodbridge Athletic and Kirton United to put us through to the League Senior Cup semi final for the first time. There were also some big wins to look back on.

Out of 30 games, Daren Stevens only missed one while James Horsfall, Panda and David Rice each missed two.

And the stability of the team – despite injuries and suspensions – was illustrated by the fact that 14 players made 21 appearances or more.

Jason Riley hit the headlines with 27 goals (from 26 games); a tremendous record – the best first team total for over 30 years. He was followed by Daren Stevens on 9 goals.

During the season, Bevan Burgess and Daren Stevens each made their 500th appearance for the Club while Daren scored his 100th Taverners goal. Fine achievements.

We must build on this stability this season and make sure we add that vital extra bit of consistency.

Reserve Team Report - Trevor Hollinsworth

The season started a little confused. Management and player changes meant the first part of the season was spent getting used to the changes.

In fact it was not until late in the season that things actually started to take shape.The team gained a stability and was competing at the correct level. It is true to say that had we started the season the way we ended it we would have been in the top four.

The stability I speak of came from the experienced players who thankfully have all agreed to play again this season. Special mention should be made of both Andy Spivey and Andy Lambert who will be at the heart of our defence this year. In midfield, player of the year Karl Dawson with the experienced Paul Strutt and Mike Cura either side of him. Along with this we have a very good crop of young players who we are very keen to develop. Henry Chard and Jamie Brittain impressed through the season.

Competition for places last year was at times intense and players who would normally feature heavily were having to step back. With the playing strengths of the club at present I can only see this increasing this year. The competition will be hard.

It is important for all those who want to be part of the Taverners set up to be patient at times. We all know with injuries, holidays and other reasons everyone will get a chance to prove they deserve a place.

I look at last season with only one regret and that is the Semi-Final. With our normal team we would have won the game and probably the Final.

This is increased with the announcement that the reserves cup has been stopped. Instead we will compete in the Junior Cup.

The league was a learning process for myself and a lot of the players. I fully expect to be competing for the league this year and we will have a damn good go at the cups as well.We worked hard last season on the team moral and trying to make everyone part of it. I believe that was a major success. We will work hard to keep that atmosphere.

2008/09 Season Leagues ---------------- 26th June 2008

The Leagues for the 2008/09 Season have been announced!

Presentation Night Report ---------------- 3rd June 2008

We were grateful to Trevor Hollinsworth for the use of The Ice Bar last week for the Club’s Presentation Night and a well-attended evening went with a swing. The company was great, the food good and the Tavs’ annual draw was well-supported – with Sam Burrows nabbing the top prize – while the highlight was Trev’s DVD of our Belgian tour at Easter. The awards themselves were increased by two, Hollywood Leisure generously contributing ‘Golden Boot’ trophies for the leading goalscorers of both our teams.

Pat Elvin, Club Chairman, presented the awards to the following:

And a few final snippets.....

• Training is taking place on Wednesday evenings at Greshams, start 7pm. Cost £1 per head.

• Details of the Club’s forthcoming AGM will be circulated shortly.

• And it’s never to early to start planning (and paying) for next Easter’s Club trip to Belgium. This will be the Tavs’ 20th European jaunt and it would be good to have a full coach. See Bob or a Committee member for details.