By Richard Hayward

The Old Ruts Reserves started their league campaign with what looked like a strong team on paper.  There was a scattering of experienced players with the majority being fresh out of nappies.  The average age was 21- very impressive bearing in mind last year it was nearer 40.

The Ruts started well, playing some crisp football and terrorizing the back four of Westside with our back four spectators for long periods.  The home side had a couple of breaks that lead to one good chance well saved by Kaminski, whilst the ORs had four or five good one-on-one attempts not capitalized on.

Half time followed with a sterling team talk, urging more football on the deck and chances to be taken.  Three more chances followed, Foster heading against the post most notably before Burke stabbed home a ball bobbling from a corner.  With the pressure lifted the ORs went in search of more with Swain finishing off a stunning sweeping move for a goal. 

A bit of laziness then slipped in with the home team breaking and forcing a corner which Hayward missed and Burke knocked in with his knees to claim an unlucky own goal and give him a brace!

Suddenly the game had changed and Westside sniffed an equalizer and forced a couple of saves from Kaminski.  Tired legs seemed to be the problem so Boo Boo brought on all three substitutes and was rewarded almost immediately as debutante Zoil put a well placed header over the goalie.

So a good start to the league campaign which would only have been sweetened by a clean sheet that all deserved, especially the keeper. Many of the younger players stepped up and were not bullied or intimidated which was good to see.

Kaminski, Cudmore, Burke, Hayward, Sc Hawley, Foster, Greenwood, Street, Swain, Hicks, Berry. Subs: (all  used) Larkin, Kelly, Zoil

Kaminski, Larkin, Sc Hawley, Burke, Hayward, Swain, Noonan, Greenwood, Foster, Hicks, R.Lines. Subs (all used) Stevens, Cudmore, Raggett.

By Richard Hayward

A short trip over Wandsworth Bridge was no real problem for the first of three away games on the bounce.  The only problem was getting change from the local shop keepers for the extortionate parking meters.

The game started poorly for the Ruts - passes were going astray and people's control and composure were not what they should have been.  Pressure and harrying from the home side contributed to these, but it was a very slow start by the whole side.

This led to the ORs going 1-0 down after ten minutes.  A sloppy goal turned in after a couple of defensive mistakes both in possession and trying to clear the ball.  Lifted by this, the home side started to pile on more pressure but did not really go that close.

The Ruts finally began to get the ball down and started passing, which led to instant success as after a couple of corners were forced, Scott Hawley swung one straight in at the near post.  A very fortunate equalizer but this eased the pressure and meant after a good passage of play Ollie Hicks was released on the right hand side of the box. He fired home in text book fashion hard and low across the goalkeeper.

Leading 2-1 at half time meant Boo Boo’s team talk was less harsh than it could have been and he urged the team to keep going at the frail defence.  In the first twenty minutes of the second half lots of good football was played and the ORs dominated.  This is when two own goals were scored, one from a long throw by Noonan and the other I can’t remember but I did get a bang on the head.

4-1 up and cruising, influential captain Hayward banged heads and had to come off with a gushing nose bleed.  The flowing football continued for another 10 minutes or so, then panic started to kick in with the home side scoring two times without reply meaning a slender one goal lead with ten minutes to go.

Although the team defended shakily for the last half hour they were still an attacking threat and a counter attack saw Lewis Kelly slot home for 5-3 and the match was over. A good win but lots to work on for the undoubted tougher tests ahead.

Kaminski, Larkin, Burke, Hayward, Cudmore, Hawley Sc, Greenwood, Noonan, Swain, Hicks, Berry. Subs (all used) L.Kelly, Toby, M.Hawley

By Richard Hayward

The ORs were going into this fixture full of confidence and second in the league.  They were up against Dynamo Pimlico, a team short on goals, points and as it turned out, players.  The game kicked off slightly late with Pimlico starting with nine men which went up to 10 then 11 players by half time.

The pitch wasn’t great and it is hard playing against less players especially if you don’t keep the ball and play things simple.  There was fifteen minutes of the ORs dominating but with no real cutting edge and no real quality if we are honest!

Things did improve though and after 20 mins Berry played a neat one two and continued his run into the box and finished powerfully past a static goalkeeper.  This settled a few nerves and the football got a bit better. Lewis Kelly, Dan Larkin (might have been the first goal but the shock was too much) and Tom Greenwood all fired past the less than mobile keeper.

4-0 at half time meant job done and a few changes.  The home side were up to 11 players and saw two shots rebound off the post.  This was down to complacency rather than any great play from  Dynamo.  Two further goals came courtesy of Swain and Finnis.  This could and should have been many more, it does however send the ORs top of the table.

A very tough game awaits this weekend against the strong AFC West End. They are near the top of the table and beat the top team in the Premier Division this weekend.  We will need to be on our toes as ‘they will be no mugs’ as Boo would say, and we need to start from the off!

Kaminski, Larkin, Burke, Hayward, Sc Hawley, Noonan, Greenwood, Stephens, Berry, Kelly, Finnis. Subs (all used) Street, Waul, Swain.

By Richard Hayward

The Reserves went into this tough away fixture top of the league - a good position to be, but also knowing that other teams were going to raise their game against us.  The opposition had been free scoring and had a good result against top of the Premier league the week before.  The build up was not helped with Noonan at home with his pants round his ankles and Dan Larkin missing in action (a McLusky’s night was mentioned in the dressing room!).

However the team was grateful to Scott Stoney for stepping in and helping out.  This did allow for Marc Hawley and Hayward to forge a solid centre back partnership which combined mobility and ability - you decide who brought what.

The game started unusually well for ORs who were playing some good football and using Leon’s wand-like left foot to put balls in the channel for the pace of Finnis and Waul, who were causing problems to the home team who had a distinct lack of pace at the back.  They had some lively attacking players but the midfield were breaking lots of play up and the defence held firm meaning the home keeper was far busier than Kaminski.

The last twenty minutes of the first half saw the Ruts missing chance after chance and we hoped this would not prove costly.  At half time the Ruts were 100% on top and had caused serious problems for the home defence and a broken nose for the now shaky keeper.  Boo’s talk summed this up and encouraged us to go on and win the game.

Ten minutes after half time disaster struck. The home team got in down the left hand side and although the ball was partly cleared, Hawley M went down injured and in the confusion played the striker onside for a tap in.  An unfortunate and undeserved goal.

This really did spur the ORs on who literally went up the other end and scored from a good inswinging free kick, Waul challenged well and from this the ball deflected into the goal for a lucky equaliser. The dubious goals panel have decided it looked like an own goal by the increasingly shaky keeper, but for the unselfish running and challenge Waul deserved the credit.

This put the ORs on top again and a lead was quickly established. Swain received good service on the right hand side several times without making a real impact but this time he cut into the box, used a clever trick and slotted low past the keeper.  A cool and important finish.  This allowed the Ruts to settle and push for the important third, which did not come and meant there was a nervy last ten minutes. But resolute defending meant the home side were restricted to longer range efforts.

The best performance of the season and also making a good team look quite ordinary, with the only real negative being the spurned chances in front of goal which led to us conceding first again.  Composure and confidence is needed.

Kaminski, Hawley Sc, Hawley M, Hayward, Cole, Swain, Greenwood, Berry, Cousins, Waul, Finnis. Subs: (both used) Stoney, Zoil.

By Richard Hayward

The Ruts Res continued their endless run of away games with a Surrey Cup encounter on familiar turf - Shalford Park in Guilford.  The team they faced were mid-table of the league below where we were last year and with the leagues weakening on paper it should have been straightforward.

With unavailability the Ruts lined up with a slightly different midfield that included Berry and Cousins in the middle. 

The whole team started slowly and after ten minutes the game was pretty even with no real chances at either end.  On 20 minutes a great ball from Berry was headed home by Finnis to open the scoring.

The game remained scrappy till the break with no real fluent football on either side.  This changed after half time as the ORs turned up their level and scored five unanswered goals.  Great finishing from young Swain showed the rest of the team how to do it and a good lob/curler from Finnis put the game well out of reach before Zoil fired home after missing at least five reasonable chances - he did show good perseverance however.

Finnis and Berry also missed good chances so ten goals would have been about par if finishing had been better.  The ORs were helped when the home side lost two players with 30 mins to go and had to finish with ten players.  This obviously created more space but the Ruts certainly capitalised and played some neat but unopposed football.

The game finished as a stroll and more urgency will be needed against a strong Hersham RBL side when attention returns to the league this Saturday.  With players coming back Boo Boo has some tough but good dilemmas to solve.  However the most important one is who out of the young illiterates will be given match report duty as this author takes a well earned rest.

Kaminski, Creates, Larkin, Hayward, Burke, Berry, Cousins, Swain, Zoil, Waul, Finnis. Subs: (both used) Nicola, Larcombe.

By Darren Noonan

Gaffer Larcombe and his team travelled away to early title rivals Hersham RBL without their inspirational skipper and also tricky winger KM - one getting a deserved call up to the first team and one involved in a horrific sunbed injury! The Reserves still had a strong looking team on paper but knew from previous encounters that Hersham would be a tough place to go and get the three points needed.

Young Bernie got the nod to partner our Ginger Makalele, Bezza in central midfield with the returning Noonan partnering stand-in skipper Burkey at the back.

The soaking wet pitch and persisitent wind and rain tested the touch of both teams throughout the match and Hersham used the conditions to slide into any tackle that they could get near - constantly clattering Makalele and Bernie in the centre of the park - much to the watching Ma and Pa Winters' disgust!

The first half finished at 0-0 despite a few half chances at each end with Hersham looking the more likely to score. The Ruts were hitting the ball too long and too straight giving Billy Finnis and Andrew Zoil little to feed on against the strong centre back. Little Lukey was looking surprisingly dangerous down the right and Boo Boo's half time team talk urged the team to pass it wide or through the channels and match the strong Hersham tackling all over the pitch.

The second half began with the Ruts now against the strong wind but looking more threatening as the ball was passed about more confidently and a couple of half chances came and went as Billy and the newly arrived Mappy rushed their shots.

The centre midfielder from Hersham then decided to fly into another late tackle on Bernie and injured his own knee which seemed to throw Hersham a bit and as they re-jigged, Powderpuff and Billy combined well down the right to get a corner which Scott "Wild Bean" Hawley trundled over to take. A good near post corner resulted in a towering Powderpuff header hitting the underside of the bar and when the routine was repeated five minutes later Lukey found the top corner with a great header (I hope he don't/can't read this!!)

Hersham pushed a few more forward but the back line held firm with help from the tireless MoM (in my opinion) Danny Cousins. A good bit of skill and pass from Mappy put Finnis through on goal five minutes from time and he cooly slotted home to confirm a great win.

A very good three points for the Reserves who march on into a Teck Cup game next week with our fearless leader hopefully returning!

By Ollie Hicks

With Boo Boo away at the races, it fell to Richard 'Tiny' Hayward to take charge of the team this week. On paper the game was looking like a walkover. But as the Ruts knew, nothing is ever that easy. Dinamo lay bottom of the table with no points from their games so far this season. So the Ruts were full of confidence.

However the day didn't start too well when our starting right back Danny Larkin turned up 45 minutes late and as punishment was given match report duty. Which he has not done. So big fine coming his way!! He eventually turned up and the Ruts went into the game with Alex Kaminski returning after his sun bed accident, Danny Cousins moving into central midfield and Tiny and Bernie 'sand wedge' Winter on the bench.

The game started and it was clear that Dinamo were a different side to the one that the Ruts had smashed 6-0 away from home earlier in the season, but in the early stages the Ruts were on top with Tom Greenwood and Dany Cousins getting stuck into the Pimlico central midfield and winning the vast majority of the tackles. The two wide men for Ruts in Luke Creates and John 'Mappy' were giving us some good width and we started to take even more control over the game. The first sight of goal came when Hicks stretched out a foot to poke through a ball into Billy Finnis who tried to round the goalkeeper but couldn't get his shot away in time and the ball was cleared.

At the back the centre pairing of Burkey and Noonan were controlling the Pimlico forwards (including their man mountain of a forward) and their long balls up to him were being dealt with easily. Then midway into the first half though some great link up play in the middle of the park saw the ball sent out wide left to Mappy, who cut back on to his favoured right foot and curled a wonderful cross in to the waiting Hicks, who in text book fashion headed back across the keeper to the score the first goal of the game. The Ruts were buoyed by the goal as it was what they had deserved from their bursts of good play. We then started to play more assured football with Luke Creates running their left back ragged.

The second goal soon followed when Billy Finnis collected the ball and ran at the hapless left back, beating him and putting in yet another superb ball for Hicks who claimed his second of the game by heading past the keeper. 2-0 and the Ruts were well in control. This unfortunately worked against the team as we sat back on this lead and stopped playing the sort of football we were playing earlier in the game.

Half time came and Tiny encouraged the team to pick up their game and keep it simple by making the ball do the work and using the two wide men to get more crosses into the box. Some changes were made with Bernie Winter replacing Dan 'no report' Larkin at left midfield with Luke Creates being pushed to right back despite his success in the first half and Mappy taking over in right midfield. Tiny brought himself on with the view to calm things down in midfield with the hard working Danny Cousins making way.

Unfortunately the second half was dire from the Ruts point of view with possession being giving away far too easily and no one being able to string together any sort of attack. To Pimlico's credit they did come out much stronger and this seemed to catch the Ruts on their heels. Maybe there was a thought of 'this is in the bag'. But it was not.

During the thoroughly frustrating second half Pimlico grabbed a goal with somehow the smallest player on the pitch out jumping one of the defenders at the back post to head past Kaminski (no naming and shaming as i dont know who it was).

So 2-1 and this was the time for the Ruts to take the game to Pimlico but it never happened. Hicks was then booked for a silly bit of 'retaliation' to being kicked in the back of the leg by one of the oppo. And was then shown a second yellow card for time wasting after he was put through on goal, rounded the keeper to polish off his hat trick but then turned to see the ref producing a second yellow for playing the ball after the whistle, which he later learned had been blown 2 or 3 times and that people on the touchlines were shouting at him to stop. But I honestly didnt hear it. So the Ruts were down to 10 men with five or so to go but managed to hold on (I can't comment on the last five minutes as I was letting out some frustration in the changing room).

Overall a good performance first half but we let ourselves down with our second half performance. Onwards and upwards though and we look forward to the Surrey Cup game next week and the return of the gaffer.

By Dan Larkin

Boo boo was back this week and with cup fever looming round the squad, the determination of the players was at a high to go forth in our cup campaign. Not too much was known about the opposition AFC Bedfont so everyone had to be turned on right from the start. The team looked strong and confident that if we performed the way we can and have done throughout the season we should be taking control. Also it helped that everyone was on time this week.

The game kicked off and it was a brilliant start for the Ruts who looked in control from the off. There was a string off passes along the back four playing the ball comfortably amongst themselves and through the midfield and also Burkey and Scott hitting the wings which was really stretching Bedfont. The game went on like this for about 15-20 minutes.

Bedfont were becoming more settled on the ball with their back four playing the ball amongst themselves, easily tiring out striker Hicks. But soon after, persistent pressure from the home side couldn’t be kept out for long as a low ball crossed from the right wing by Danny Cousins flew across the 6-yard box and was turned into the back of the net by one of the defenders, although there was heavy Ruts presence in the box which forced their left back to act.

With this goal it should have perhaps dampened the opposition's confidence, but that was not the case as they were becoming stronger yet frustrated by their play in the final third of the pitch. Soon after, all of their battling in the middle of the park started to become a problem as they pushed on and forced a corner. The corner was cleared but only as far as the edge of the box where the centre midfielder had a pop which was certainly heading into the corner of the net, but the saviour for the Ruts was left back Cousins who headed it clear off the line.

Our half time talk from Boo was to use the pitch and let the ball do the running round. Boo couldn’t stress enough it’s a big pitch, hit the wings and look for the channels to Billy and Ollie to run onto.

The second half was amongst us and it was clear that it wasn’t going to be a walk in the park. Bedfont's attacks were becoming more of substance in front of goal with the left winger tearing down the right causing the Ruts defense to be on their guard and the midfield to track back. The frustration of being 1-0 down was getting to the attitudes of the players, arguing amongst themselves and with the ref.

With about 20 minutes left of the match Bedfont made a break through the middle and Ruts keeper Kaminski came surging out of his goal, but the ball rebounded off several players like a game of pinball and fell to their striker in front of an empty net, where he shot home. But the ref pulls back play for a previous foul to Bedfont on the edge of the area! Bedfont were fuming at the ref arguing advantage should have been played, but the strong ref stuck by his decision (like he could go back on it!). This arguing led to one of Bedfont's players having an early bath (something Ollie can relate to).

All the subs were introduced in the second half as Larkin, Luke and Scott provided fresh legs in an attempt to hold onto the lead, which saw more control by Scott, and freshening up the right side with Luke running tirelessly up the wing and Larkin chasing after Bedfont's left winger. With the last chance of the game came a top draw tackle from Burkey who made a sliding tackle - one of many - this one from behind to stop Bedfont's striker from converting a last minute one on one chance.

That was all to report on proceedings, the cup run goes on! In my opinion MOM was Burkey (Webmaster's note - Boo actually gave it to Dan Cousins).

HOMEWORK DONE!

By Alex Kaminski

Boo Boo’s barmy army went back into league action on Saturday on a bitterly cold November afternoon.  With the team on a seven match winning streak, expectations were high ahead of the upcoming match against Esher United. With virtually a fully fit squad heading down to Poplar Road, confidence was soaring with an eighth straight victory on the cards.

The game kicked off and it was a shaky start for the Ruts who looked a bit sloppy right from the off. Esher had a couple of early free kicks which Kaminski had to be alert for to keep the score at 0-0. After this slightly wobbly start, the Ruts started to play the sort of football that had brought them to the top of the league. Lee Poulter had a couple of efforts from long range, one of which only just flew past the keeper’s far post.

After a fairly scrappy period, the Ruts opened the scoring with about five minutes remaining of the first half. A free kick delivered by Daragh Corrigan on the right hand side was nodded on by Darren Noonan and the ball fell to Steve Nicola who hit a well timed right foot shot across the keeper and in at the far post.

Half time came with the Ruts holding a narrow lead against an opposition whose performance we thought fared better than their league position showed. Boo Boo in the team talk reminded us not to relax on our slender lead as in previous games we had nearly been caught out due to spirited second half displays from the opposition.

The second half began fairly evenly between the two sides. But just 10 minutes into the half, Esher opened their account for the day. A ball over the top from their central midfielder wasn’t properly dealt with by Kaminski and the opposition striker tapped the ball into an empty net. Game on.

However, almost immediately Billy Finnis put the Ruts 2-1 up. A cross from Luke Creates on the right hand side fell to Billy, who less than convincingly put the ball in the far corner of the net.

After this, the Ruts spurned lots of chances in front of goal. Ollie Hicks went close with a header, Billy had a couple of one on ones and Alfonso had a couple of surging runs at goal which could have resulted in the game being put to bed.

But with virtually the last kick of the game, an Esher United free kick on the left hand side resulted in a goal. The ball was swung in and Kaminski failed to catch it properly and consequently the ball fell to an Esher player who fired into an empty net.

So it finished as a 2-2 draw which was bitterly disappointing. If it were for better finishing and more decisive goalkeeping, then for sure the Ruts would have claimed all three points. Claygate Royals in the next round of the cup are next for the Reserves, which will be another tough test for Boo’s barmy army.

By Graham Winter

The Ruts of Division One faced a tough game against Premier side Claygate Royals in the first round of the Teck Cup. Everyone was in buoyant mood having seen Rhys' glasses (with no lenses???) I'm sure Dame Edna or Timmy Mallet would have been proud.

Preparations weren't up to the standards expected as Pop Larkin strolled into the club late as always. Make sure a watch is on your Christmas list Larkin.

The Ruts found the heavy boggy pitch tough going early on. The oppo played a very direct approach which caused the Ruts no end of problems. Tiny gave away a dubious handball just outside the box and the free kick managed to find the bottom corner.

Fonz got injured on 20 minutes and was replaced by Larkin. Boo called for some flair so with no one else available Bernie was put on the wing and Larkin slotted in at left back.

Soon 1-0 became 2-0. A long ball from the back seem to roll straight under Tiny's normally trusty left peg allowing the striker a clear run in on goal, who finished emphatically giving Kaminski in goal no chance. By now Tiny was wishing he had gone shopping instead!!

The Ruts had some good spells but failed to put the oppo under a great deal of pressure and create any real chances. Tom Greenwood had the Ruts best chance of the half but his shot was well blocked by a defender. The half ended 2-0.

The Ruts had a real go from the outset of the second half, enjoying plenty of possession in the final third but without ever managing to get behind Claygate's rearguard. They had Claygate penned back but the home side were looking dangerous on the break, playing the ball quickly up to their excellent strike pairing who were combining well and giveng the Ruts defence a torrid time.

The next goal was decisive - had the Ruts got it their tails would've been up and it would've been game on. But on 60 minutes Claygate scored on the break after the Ruts gave it away cheaply and the contest was over.

With 25 minutes remaining manager Boo had to go for it and went three up top with the injured Noonan being replaced by Wacaday's favourite Rhys.

Another breakaway forced Kaminski to upend the striker and give away a pen. At 3-0 the ref was kind and gave the keeper a yellow rather than a red for being last man. Had it been a closer game Kaminski would've seen red. The pen was duly converted for 4-0.

On 70 mins four became five. Kaminski was unlucky when he saved a one-on-one well (about the fourth excellent save he'd made thus far) but the rebound fell kindly to the striker's feet and he slotted in.

Boo finally put Tiny out of his misery on 85 minutes when he opted for a bit more pace and brought himself on and give Tiny some time to reflect. I hope he's got Oggy's number for this weekend's fixtures!

The Ruts got one back late on when some neat build up play allowed Dean Riordan to finish from the angle.

In patches the Ruts played some good stuff in very difficult conditions. I'm not sure Boo will want his team to get promoted to the Prem though if these facilities are anything to go by!

All in all not a great day at the office, but the team will have to pick themselves up for the big league game next week again AFC Molesey.

Kaminski, Nicola, Burke, Hayward, Winter, Greenwood, Riordan, Noonan, Bennett, D'Rozario, Finnis. Subs (all used) Larkin, Waul, Larcombe.

By Richard Hayward

The Reserves were eagerly looking forward to running off some Christmas turkey and all were pleased when the game was ok to go ahead even though the ground was a little frosty. Boo had an embarrassment of riches up front so decided to go 4-3-3 to cater for Hicks, Finnis and Trigger.

From the off this really unsettled Thornton Heath as they had three pacy strikers running onto balls played into the channels by the midfield three of Fonz, Swain and Hayward.  The defense was also looking solid and untroubled.  In the fifth minute Hayward flicked on a long throw from Noonan which fell to Trigger’s head three yards out. 0-1.

This should have settled the Ruts but although chances kept coming a further five excellent opportunities were missed before half time with the main culprits being Hayward, Hicks and Trigger. I mean these were gooooood one on one chances that players of this quality should have been despatching.

Boo’s half time talk echoed this - he was happy with the football and the work rate, but just wanted the finishing to be more clinical.  This however did not improve and further unbelievable chances were missed.  Thornton Heath even mounted a couple of breakaway chances that were excellently saved by Kaminski when called into action. 

Rather than sit back, the Ruts pushed on and the introduction of Street saw him play a clever through ball for Hicks who finished expertly left footed hard and low across the keeper.

This finally killed the game as a contest, although the Ruts continued to miss a hatful of chances when well placed, the culprits being Poulter, Hayward and Finnis.  Hayward swung over a collection of dangerous corners that Noonan attacked and headed in lots of different directions.  Trigger finally added a third with a neat turn and finish.  

A comprehensive win that without exaggeration should have been 0-10.  Still, concerns about quality of finishing that will have to be improved if the Ruts are going to advance in next week's Surrey Cup tie.  Cup fever!

Note to manager: I enjoyed playing further forward and am hitting the gym to further improve my newfound fitness!  Especially if it keeps Noonan away from the creative stuff.

Webmaster's note: the Reserves are so efficient that they've managed to send me two match reports this week! Shame on the Firsts and Thirds. So here's Burkey's effort...

By Richard Burke

After the Christmas festivities it was a welcome return back to league action for Boo Boo's Barmy Army for the short trip to South Wimbledon where Thornton Heath provided the opposition. The Reserves were further strengthened by the return from the 1st Team squad of KM and £4 Mil Larkin and young Joe back from taxpayers school.

Thornton Heath have had a mixed bag of results so far this season and Boo's positive frame of mind resulted in an attacking 4-3-3 formation with Tiny relieved of his usual centre half duties and pushed forward into midfield, with the attacking trio consisting of Hicks, Finnis and Trigger.

Even after the night's cold frost, the pitch was firm but playable and after winning the toss Tiny changed ends with the sun behind the Ruts backs. Within five minutes Boo's master plan had come to fruition as a long throw from Noonan was flicked on by the little left winger Tiny, giving Trigger an easy back post header which he duly converted.

The next 40 minutes was spent camped in the opposition's half as the Ruts contrived to miss chance after chance - some of which will appear on Ricky Hatton's 2009 Football Bloopers Christmas DVD cash-in as they bossed the game. Boo was metaphorically pulling his hair out as the chances went begging and a relieved Thornton went into the break somehow still in the game.

Boo's half time talk was to keep our concentration and continue playing the football. And as per usual the Ruts completely ignored this advice and started the second half slowly. Thornton - sensing their chance - caught the Ruts on the break and Kaminski pulled off a great one-on-one save, which was even more commendable after spending the first 45 minutes trying to keep warm.

The Ruts then carried on from where they left off by missing more simple chances until Hicks swept a left foot shot into the back of the net and the Ruts could breathe a sigh of relief. Trigger added a well taken third with probably his hardest chance.

The Ruts then fell back into further comical finishing that would have made the Chuckle Brothers proud including a magnificent to me-to-you moment where Tiny and Noonan played a 1-2 from a corner to the far post and back to Tiny at the corner flag. The only exclusions from the Hall of Shooting Shame were probably Kaminski, Creates and Burke, although the latter entered the spirit by performing an air-shot when wandering too far into midfield from his centre-half berth.

In the end a comfortable three points, which increased the gap to Molesey who were frosted off. Their gaffer came down to scout the Ruts and probably went home a little confused as to which Ruts team they will face in the coming weeks. If nothing else Saturday carried on the good league form but it looks like plenty of shooting practice on Tuesday prior to next week's Surrey Cup 4th Round fixture.

Kaminski, Cousins, Noonan, Burke, Creates, Hayward, Bennett, Swain, Hicks, Finnis, L.Poulter. Subs: (both used) Street, Larkin

By Lee Poulter

After the disappointment of having the match switched from a home game to an away game, there was further disappointment with the changing rooms being unfit for dogs.

Once the game got underway it was Ruts who were dominating and they duly took the lead through a super finish from Lines.

Ruts had chances to increase the lead but it was Merstham who got an equaliser leaving goalkeeper Kaminski stranded via a deflection.

In the second half, with the wind increasing to Merstham's favour, the game turned with the Ruts struggling to cope with the long ball. They soon scored and I'm told, as the rest was all a blur to me, that although Lines netted a second for the Ruts, Merstham ran away 5-2 winners and left the Ruts to concentrate on league success!

By Richard Hayward

The Reserves bowed out of the final cup competition of the year, again to Premier league opposition. This time however it was not the limp, spineless effort seen against Claygate Royals. The ORs absolutely dominated all areas of the game.

Keeper Wellstead communicated well and was swift off his line, the defence marshalled by CJ Hawley kept the tricky forward players quiet, and the midfield won their battles and provided good delivery to Hicks and KM who caused problems up front, especially in the first half.

Out of the blocks much faster than normal, the ORs created huge problems for the opposing centre back pairing which seemed especially immobile.  Balls diagonally from the fullbacks and clever link up play through midfield really put the pressure on.

Excellent chances were spurned by Hicks, Riordan and Creates.  One of the chances that fell to Hicks was created by the move of the match.  Hayward played a firm pass to Creates who came in off the right wing, Creates flicked the ball first time for Hicks to run onto but his shot screwed wide.

The game started to have a look of familiarity with the ORs playing well but not converting chances.  The second half was more even with no-one looking like making a breakthrough.  A free kick 25 yards out was delivered well and converted by a strong header giving Robin Hood a surprise lead with their first good chance.

Two minutes later Creates was harshly red carded for a clumsy challenge and this unfortunately was the final nail in the coffin. 

This result harshly highlighted the fact that the ORs need to finish better to compete at a higher level.  With the next two league games vital for our campaign let’s hope we can find the back of the net.

And just to prove that communication is one of the Reserves strong points, two of them have sent me a report again this week...

By The Swains

The Old Ruts Reserves faced strong opposition this week in the form of Robin Hood. It was a League Cup game, played at Ham in Richmond.

 As soon as the game began, Old Ruts started off very strong, taking control of the game almost immediately. A shot from Ollie Hicks in the first three minutes after a cross from KM Swain raised determination. The balls kept coming our way as KM Swain crossed the ball to Ollie Hicks. A quick manoeuvre from Ollie allowed a super pass to Luke Creates who swept forward and took a quick shot, sending it slightly too wide.

With Robin Hood gaining control of the ball and having one of their few chances of going for goal, a fantastic save was made by Ruts goalie Craig Wellstead with a super dive. As the ball passed between the lads, Dean Riordan received it from outside the box and struck it with determination. Once again luck was against us as the ball went high over the crossbar.

Then a cross from KM Swain to Tiny, and a knock on to Luke Creates, gave us yet another chance as he took an excellent shot which skimmed the right hand side of the net.

As Robin Hood surged forward, some excellent defending took place as Richard Burke was fouled. The referee stopped the game as the players became involved in a verbal dispute.

With the referee having had words with the Ruts manager Boo and the opposition about their behaviour, the game was allowed to continue. This lasted all of two minutes as both teams continued to argue. Robin Hood tried their best to cause a punch up and finally received a warning from the ref who asked their players to either shut up or he would start flashing his yellow and red cards about.

With a super free kick taken by Marc Hawley after a foul, the ball sailed into the box but was saved by their goalie. As the game moved back and forth, our goalie Craig gave lots of support as he took verbal control over the game.

With it having run smoothly for a few minutes, Robin Hood attacked the ball and sent it sailing into our box. With a swift jump from Tiny, he headed it out of the box, stopping the ball from hitting the back of the net. A great long shot was taken by the opposition, however it was knocked over the bar just before the whistle was blown for half time. During the first half of the game, the Old Ruts had majority possession of the ball.

With strong talks at half time, the players came out ready to fight. The second half started off well, with us receiving a free kick which was taken by Tiny, followed by another free kick after a foul was made on Riordan. He took the shot which was saved by the goalie.

As we pushed forward a great ball was sent by Tom Greenwood, but unfortunately we were unable to get a goal. Luck was definitely not on our side!

Our defence worked hard at keeping possession of the ball and sending it into the oppositions half at every opportunity. With a swift corner from KM, Tom jumped with all his might in an attempt to score a header, but with it being a tough challenge, the ball cleared slightly over the bar.  

A throw in by Robin Hood in our half caused a bit of a stir, however Ruts had them covered and with another throw in taken, we were able to win a goal kick. Once again as the lads surged forwards, Riordan made a cross to Marc Hawley who took a shot, going slightly above the bar.

Suddenly Danny Cousins was all over the place, giving Robin Hood a run for their money. Danny sent a great ball forward but it was intercepted by the opposition who passed frantically to get it to our end. They showed some skilful footwork as they tackled the Ruts, however once again the game was called to a halt by the referee as their number 2 required a talking to for his verbal manner on the pitch.

Suddenly the opposition surged forward and took a shot, hitting the right post, on rebound they shot again but this time the ball went wide, giving us a goal kick. Danny Larkin took pressure off of us as he kicked the ball out of the area. Some good foot work from Tom Greenwood sent the ball forward but unfortunately a late tackle from Dean Riordan resulted in a booking. As the opposition jeered at us, the ref decided to give their number 2 a treat and booked him as well!

The game turned around for a few minutes with Robin Hood having control of the game. A fantastic save was made once again by Craig who was well on form today. As we slowly moved forward by gaining continuous throw ins, we began to gain control once more. A shot from Dean over the goal changed the direction of the ball once again. Then a shot over the bar from the opposition gave Ruts a chance to reshape themselves with only 20 minutes to go. With another shot against Ruts, we needed to regain control.

The game died down a bit - players were tired on both sides but we still had the majority of the ball. With 15 minutes to go, Rhys Waul was brought on as sub in place of Ollie Hicks. With a pass from KM Swain to Luke Creates a free kick just outside the box was won and as Luke sent the ball flying, it was saved by the goalie. As the ball was sent down the pitch by the opposition, they took a lucky shot and scored a goal with a free header!

As the game started from the centre, Luke Creates challenged a player with a two footed tackle which was unfortunately slightly late. Although he did have contact with the ball, the referee felt that it was a dangerous tackle and with a red card shown, Luke was sent off and was sadly missed on the pitch.

Sending Luke off was not enough for some players and although a few of Robin Hood agreed that it should have been a yellow card, others were still not satisfied. Their goalie decided to throw verbal abuse at the Ruts Manager Boo - and for all those that heard, he is not a f****** bald c***!

With only 10 players the team battled hard and worked well together. There were times when the ball went backwards and forwards between the players in their area but we just couldn’t get it in the back of the net. There was an excellent tackle from Waul and consistent perseverance from Danny Cousins which lead to a lovely cross which unfortunately went out of play.

With a corner from the opposition that went sailing passed the box, it gave us a chance to step it up. However with our goalie Craig receiving a stamp on his knee during another one of his great saves, once again the men had a chance to exchange one of their many verbal expressions. And once again the referee intervened before the final whistle was blown.

It was a hard game and the team should be very proud of their performance. They stood their own and had about 80% control of the game. Well done Old Ruts!

Wellstead, Larkin, Burke, M. Hawley, Hayward, Creates, Greenwood, Riordan, Cousins, Hicks, Swain. Subs: Waul and Stoney (used), Larcombe (not used)

By Dan Cousins

This week was the big one, and the defining moment of our season. Coming off the back of two defeats in the cup games and struggling to create goals in the final third, we needed every player to raise his standards and remain switched on for a tough 90 minutes against Molesey. Second in the league and with a game in hand, Molesey were breathing down our necks and we needed a morale boosting display and result to put some distance between us.

Molesey started brightly and were causing some concern with their centre forward being the key player and their right winger breaking quickly through their midfield. The game picked up a quick pace from the start and both teams were looking to catch each other on the breaks with quick balls forward.

We defended well for the first 20 minutes and came close ourselves catching Molesey out at the back with Ollie coming close but unfortunately he dragged his shot wide.

Bezza and Ollie were always looking dangerous, as the first half progressed we looked more and more comfortable containing Molesey, limiting their chances and causing them problems every time we moved into their final third.

The first goal came from Molesey and to be fair it felt undeserved. Molesey broke into our final third, with the right winger holding the ball up at the left corner. Cousins was a bit hasty in trying to win the ball and conceded a dangerous free kick which resulted in their centre forward scoring the opener.

Despite the setback we reacted superbly and applied some much needed pressure on to their back four, moving the ball quickly into the channels in their final third. Ollie found himself in a great position in the box as he turned the defender but was caught and sent tumbling with the referee giving the penalty. Tiny stepped up and levelled the score, although it was a hairy moment as the keeper almost got something.
 
Going in at half time 1-1 we felt we had produced a good strong display and felt we could take the game if we continued to play as we were. We tightened things up at the back and got more comfortable with dealing with Molesey's attacks, the midfield of Dean, Tom, Noonan and Bernie all tucked in to help cut the midfield out and limit the supply to the wings and centre forward.

Things continued as in the first half with our midfield getting the ball up into the final third behind their full backs with Bezza and Ollie beating them for pace every time. Soon our second goal came with great pressure and hard work from our centre forwards who forced the mistake and left Dean - who was constantly getting from box to box - to assertively finish the ball into the back of the net.

The goal lifted us and we all felt we could win this game. Molesey continued to pressure us coming close to equalising only to have two goals disallowed. We soaked up a lot of pressure but held firm and soon came a third goal, once again pressuring the back line into a mistake between the their centre back and keeper to leave Bezza to slot the ball home.

At 3-1 we felt we had the game won, but Molesey took advantage of some rare hesitant defending and reduced our lead to one goal which made the last 20 minutes very tough!

But we dug deep with two key substitutions in the second half of Bernie for Billy Finnis at left wing and Dan Larkin for Noonan in the centre of midfield in front of the back line to firm things up. We managed to hold out for the final twenty and the result was confirmed.

The Man of the Match would be hard to pick as everyone produced a solid display winning key battles in certain areas. Hats off to the Molesey who can produce great football at times and were always a threat, but Boo always knew what to expect as he had came into the game fully prepared and sent out a line up to contain Molesey and cut out the supply from the midfield.

A great win and a big message to the rest of the league. If we play like that every week we simply won’t lose a game.

By Boo Boo

Having beaten Thornton Heat 3-0 away earlier in the season, this fixture looked as if it should go to form with us unbeaten in the league and them mid table.  HOW WRONG WAS I!!!!!!

We started the game with good attacking football resulting in few chances that were not converted into goals.  Thornton Heath looked dangerous on the break so the warning signs were there but not heeded. 

With Billy Finnis doing some good work down the right crossing the ball for Steve Berry to tap in we went one nil up, but yet again we did not build on this and we stopped playing so letting Thornton Heath into the game which resulted in them equalising.  They should have gone 2-1 up only for their player missing an open goal from one yard out.  We went in at half time with the score 1-1. We now knew we had a game on our hands, with Thornton Heath fired up and playing well. Changing the line up from 433 to 442 at half time with the hopes that this would tighten things up and us to get the ball down and start using it better.  Only one change at half time was John Mapp coming on for Dan Larkin.

Second half was dreadful, with us missing more chances and getting more frustrated with each other. Pushing on for the second goal we got hit on the break.  With us going 2-1 down I decided to make a change with 20 mins to go, I put Rhys on for Tom.  More chances were not converted at both ends resulting in us losing our unbeaten record in the league. On that performance we got what we deserved and Thornton Heath were worthy winners.

This game just showed the importance of taking our chances, if we don’t we will not win games. The faster we learn this, the better and I hope that this was the kick up the backside we needed to get us back to our winning ways. We have to realise that teams are not just going to roll over and we have to earn the win.

This result has now allowed Molesey and Kingston Albion back into contention.!!!!!!!!!

From the NOT so happy gaffer.

By Steve Berry

Old Ruts Reserves had the short distance to travel for their game against Wandsworth Corinthians. Abbey Rec was the venue to hopefully see the Reserves getting back to winning ways. The previous encounter back in early October saw the Ruts winning 5-3 in a game that could have easily ended four all or even 4-5 down due to panic. But 5-3 it ended and another five goals would not go amiss.

With the Ruts lining up in a familiar 4-4-2 everyone knew what they needed to do. Craig in goal would hopefully help the team settle with his words of encouragement from the back but turning up half hour late and then participating in the warm up consisting of laying out in the sun the side knew best to keep the goalie quiet and let him enjoy the sunshine. Due to player unavailability Dave Murphy was ushered into the line up to partner Steve Berry upfront for the first time.

The start of the game saw both sides trying to contend with a pitch that has seen better days. Even with many uneven areas the pitch was nice and wide with plenty of space to exploit for the wide men. KM and John would have plenty to say in this encounter and it was evident from the start. Good play down both flanks saw the Ruts gain the momentum but both wide men were found guilty of holding onto the ball to long and not getting the ball across.

Even with most possession being down the wing the deadlock was broken around the 25 min mark straight down the middle. Noonan playing the ball to Bezza’s feet with his back to goal and marker tight on him saw the first of many kicks to the shin and a free kick awarded. Noonan moving forward to give the aerial threat found the ball fall to him from the free kick and with his first touch off the chest, quick look up he had picked his spot -1-0.

From the restart the Ruts again used the flanks well and with Luke pushing on overlapping with KM you would have thought it was the right hand side where the lead would have doubled. But it was young John who previously had been guilty of not getting the ball over, swung a peach across only for the goalie to jump and claim. Well he should have claimed it. Instead it went straight through his hands and fell to the very grateful Murphy to tap home from five yards. 2-0 and half time.

Boo Boo's halftime team talk was one of more positive play. The game looked beyond Wandsworth and more of the same was asked for. The manager could not have been more right. Ball played down the middle, Bezza kicked from behind, free kick. Free kick played forward, Noonan controlled, found his spot 3-0. Ball played down the middle, Bezza kicked from behind, free kick. Free kick played forward, Noonan controlled, found his spot 4-0. Yes, if you have been paying attention that’s three for Noonan. Given far too much space but still done well to slop all three home.

The fifth came from Dan who two minutes earlier managed to hit the crossbar from a yard out with the ball on the deck. How this was achieved is a mystery but he made up for it with five mins left on the clock. Good play down the left once again saw the ball move into the middle. The forward with his back to goal looked up and saw both Noonan and Dan pushing on to support. Laying off into Dan’s path saw his first time strike loop over the keeper to make it five. You're reading 'strike' but to be honest the guy shinned it and somehow it ended up in the back of the net. But the young man was willing to push on and support and if you don’t shoot you don’t score.

Man of the Match was awarded to Noonan for his three goals and all round game. Credit must be given to the back four who helped Craig enjoy his afternoon in the sun without being bothered too much. Also Noonan’s partner in the middle Dean who worked his socks off and showed what work rate is needed to make it into the first team. The Reserves will be keen to keep him for the run in until the end of the season.

By Richard Burke

On a bright but breezy sunny day the Ressies were looking to cement their return back to the top of the league against 4th placed AFC West End. The match had been brought forward to 1pm in order that Boo could head down the M3 to Southampton for Bonky’s 40th. The earlier encounter in the league ended in a closely fought 2-1 win and Boo was expecting a similarly tough challenge.

The line-up was unchanged from the previous week's comfortable win over Wandsworth and the same 4-4-2 formation with the youngsters of Mappy and KM instructed to give width and stretch the play. Boo also made the point in the pre-match talk to ensure we target the goal machine that is Noonan and his deadly belly-trap and volley.

Tiny lost the toss so the Ruts kicked off with the wind slightly behind their backs and a tight game developed as both sides were playing tidy football. After 10 mins Ruts were awarded a corner and from it scored a goal straight from Boo Boo’s master plan. Tiny and Burkey caused distraction for Noonan to quietly inform Bezza that it was his back post header and he nodded in from 6 yards with a text book effort that bounced on the goal line before the defender could stop it. Murphy made sure but Noonan was already away and celebrating, followed by Tiny thinking of his FF points total.

After this set-back West End came back into the game and had a couple of chances to equalise after some sloppy play by Ruts but we survived and should have increased the lead after a neat dummy by Murphy put in Bezza. Bezza pulled a save out of the keeper but couldn’t force in the rebound and after a bit of pinball they managed to clear.

Mappy pulled up with a strained hamstring and was replaced by Tom Greenwood with KM left to provide the width. The rest of the half continued to be tight with Ruts slightly on top as Noonan won nearly every header from their goal kicks. The West End youngsters continued to play neat football without really getting a sight of goal so it was 1-0 at the half.

Second half began like the first with both sides probing for an opening and as clichéd as it may be the next goal would be vital. After 10 mins it was Ruts who got it as a right wing free kick was slung in, the keeper fumbled it and just like last week Murphy was prowling and tucked it away. Just proves the old adage, no substitute for class and Ollie Hicks must be getting nervous about getting his shirt back when his foot heals.

The second goal settled Ruts down who controlled the game as the wind had gone from the West End sails and Tiny repeated Noonan’s first half effort by winning all the headers even though their goalie was now assisted by the wind.

With Ruts playing the football this enabled Boo to bring Fonzie on who covered nearly every blade of grass in just a few minutes before unleashing a rocket into the top left hand corner from 25 yards. Keeper didn’t move and was merely a spectator as it whistled into the back of the net. He was then treated to Fonzie’s 'Strictly Come Dancing' goal celebration which wouldn’t have looked out of place on MOTD2's 2 Good/2 Bad section. 10/10 for the strike and a slinky routine.

Boo’s final act was to bring on £4Mil Larkin to see if he could repeat last week's cheeky lob with his left peg as Ruts comfortably saw out the rest of the game and kept another clean sheet.

Although Boo was supposed to be on his way to Southampton he still managed a good hour in the bar afterwards and was in a very contented mood as the whole team had put a performance in which will make his MOM choice very difficult. Credit also to a young West End team who played football the right way and will no doubt continue to improve as they are definitely the best footballing team we’ve played this season.

Three more to go and it will be a lot more interesting than the Prem.