By, Danny Caro
32 min read
ByDanny Caro, Danny Caro
The Peter Morrison Trophy takes centre stage on Sunday with teams battling it out for a place in the first national round. Danny Caro looks ahead to all the action.
LATEST NEWS:
FC TEAM SNAP UP KEEPER BLOOM
MONTANA PART COMPANY WITH EMANUEL
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FAITHFOLD A vs REDBRIDGE JC A PHOTOS
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LAST WEEK’S ACTION ANALYSED
DANNY CARO'S PREMIER DIVISION TEAM OF THE WEEK
DANNY CARO'S DIVISION ONE TEAM OF THE WEEK
DANNY CARO'S DIVISION 2 TEAM OF THE WEEK
DANNY CARO'S DIVISION 4 TEAM OF THE WEEK
JC SAVE OF THE WEEK: THE CONTENDERS
JC MISS OF THE WEEK
Guy Belot (Athletico Finchley) - went past the keeper and faced an open goal, he blundered the chance after the ball bobbled. - Taxi for Belot!
JC QUOTE OF THE WEEK
Darren Yarlett (NW Neasden A) - "Warwick Blake today who showed why he is by far the best referee in the league"
JC GAFF OF THE WEEK
Peter Lavelle (Boca Jewniors vs Brixton B) - gave a "phantom penalty" which cost boca their first three points
REFEREE OF THE WEEK:
John Feenstra (LM Lions B vs Hendon Utd SC A)
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PETER MORRIONS TROPHY ROUND THREE
BRADY MACCABI A vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS A
There’s a mouth-watering affair in store in an early kick-off at Rowley Lane as Premier Division rivals Brady and Raiders get ready to rumble.
Brady showed great skill and character to come from behind twice against Chigwell in the Anekstein last Sunday, with Danny Cohen and Josh Hershman catching the eye in particular.
Ahead of their first meeting with Premier Division rivals Raiders, Brady boss Josh Rosenfeld had this to say.
"We have to look forward and push on from last week's good performance against Chigwell," he told JC Sport. "We know Raiders A have a lot of quality and this is going to be another tough one. But this is another competition we want to win
League form will go out of the window, with the Raiders going into the tie on the back of a 5-1 success against Catford in the JC League Cup.
Jamie Wolfson continues to show good form, with Danny Bloom not far behind. Adam Posner impressed last week but the camp know that only a near-perfect display from 1-11 will do on Sunday.
I can see this being an open and high-octane affair with plenty of chances at both ends. May the best team win.
JC team news: Brady are still struggling with injuries. Adam Littas, Nick Berman, Lee Platt and Jordan Grant are unavailable. Rosenfeld added: "TJ may be waiting another week to make his debut. It is highly unlikely we will see him on Sunday."
Raiders are also missing key personnel with Andrew McMaster ruled out for the season. Joe Tankel, Carl Peters, Anthony Shaw and James Fattal are still sidelined through injury. Nick Wiseman and Igal Yahya return to the squad. Dan Cohen has been given a week's rest to recover from playing outfield against Catford. It's been a busy week for joint-manager Danny Caro, but with Jonny Adelman away on business, he's vowed to come out of the delivery ward and take Raiders into the next round!
Venue – Rowley Lane, KO – 10am, Ref – Gary Silver
JC star man: Adam Posner (Raiders)
DC Prediction: Brady Maccabi A 2 NL Raiders A 3
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BRIXTON OLD BOYS A vs NORTH WEST NEASDEN A
Revenge is the name of the game for Neasden on Sunday as they take on Anekstein Cup conquerors Brixton for the second consecutive week.
Managers Lee Cash and Darren Yarlett are expected to welcome back defenders Scott Shindler and Kyle Bentwood in a match they really cannot afford to lose.
With Cash away, I think Yarlett won't need to say much in the dressing room before the game as his troops look to settle a score.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Yarlett told JC Sport: "As I said in my post-match comments after the Anekstein game, this was a match we dominated from start to finish, the only negative was our finishing.
"The boys know how annoyed myself and Lee were but they have this week to put things right.
"I have no issue about the football we played and am not worried about Brixton’s attacking players, as I stated previously the game should have been over at half time.
"However, what Brixton do offer is 110 per cent fight and spirit and a never-say-die attitude which I love from any side. This sometimes goes further than skill and technique as proved last week, but my boys know what they need to do and I’m confident they will win."
Last Sunday, James Kaye and Alon Hershkorn were the goal men in a memorable 2-0 victory, but manager John Nitka was keen to praise everyone who played their part in what can only be described as a tremendous result. No doubt, Neasden will not take them lightly second time around.
Nitka knows that his team could be under the cosh for long periods, but he is backing his boys to do the business again.
"Here we go again – the second half of an intriguing game," he told JC Sport. "I am sure Neasden will be out for revenge but again we will be up for it.
"I have once again injury concerns over three of my players, but again, we will do our best and hopefully come away with a win."
When you look at the wealth of talent Neasden have at their disposal, it's hard to see Brixton coming out on top again. Daggers, Babai, Sofier, Joseph and Lazare will be looking to make their mark and take the former cup winners into the next round.
I can see the visitors flying out of the blocks, going for the jugular and coming out on top by a couple of goals.
JC team news: Neasden welcome back Scott Schindler and Kyle Bentwood, but Lee Cash, Jamie Shaw, Ben Goldberg and Jake Gottlieb miss out.
NWN squad (from): Max Shields, Dave Fox, Kyle Bentwood , Scott Schindler, Elliot Stern, Brad Sharp, Danny Daggers, Sammy Ross, Paul Babai, Ben Joseph, Matt Sofier, Rob Lerner, Jonny Haik, Mark Lazare
Venue – Clowes, Ref – C. Stupack
JC star man: Jonny Haik (Neasden)
DC Prediction: Brixton OB A 1 NW Neasden A 3
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HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB A vs MONTANA BOCA UNITED
The quadruple is still on for Hendon, but only just. Last week they were 60 seconds from crashing out of the Anekstein until Greg Corin popped up in the supersub role to keep them alive and kicking against Lions B.
On Sunday they will come up against a Montana team under new management following the departure of Vivian Emanuel. So the players will be extra keen to impress under the watchful eye of Nick Goodmaker and Marc Ziedman.
It's clear that manager David Garbacz will take nothing for granted. Speaking to JC Sport ahead of the game, he said: "We had a right old shock last week when we under-estimated a team from the lower leagues and never quite got started.
"As a result we were but a whisker of going out of a top cup competition. I am hoping that we will have learned valuable lessons from last week and, despite rumblings from the Montana camp that they have an injury crisis, we will need to put up a far more professional performance.
"If we get through on Sunday we will be well placed for a very exciting 2012 in all competitions. After that we just have to hope we don’t do an “Arsenal!”
Damage limitation could be the name of the game for Montana, who were thumped 5-1 by lower league Faithfold C in the JC League Cup last weekend.
Montana need some root canal treatment right now and I think Goodmaker and Ziedman are the right men to turn things around. But they couldn't have asked for a tougher start and I think Hendon will show them the way on Sunday.
On paper this isn't a contest and I can see the Hammers, with a full-strength squad, easing over the line at a canter.
Venue – Hadley FC, Ref – H. Raffe
JC star man: Danny Kon (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Hendon Utd SC A 3 Montana Boca Utd 0
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HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB B vs REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE A
"We have nothing to lose." That is the war-cry from Hendon joint-manager Motty Korman ahead of Sunday's tie against the giants of Redbridge.
A high-scoring encounter is on the cards in a clash for which RJC have sold their full allocation in the away end.
The Hornets going into the game in fine form with Gav Noe and Pinty Baddiel registering in the hard fought 2-1 win over Glenthorne B last Sunday.
Joint-manager Chaim Gothold was quick to praise the efforts of keeper Arthur Caplan and midfielder Motty Korman after a performance in which they were forced to dig deep in.
The scalp of RJC would be the biggest in Hendon B's history, but Korman believes that anything is possible.
"We have nothing to lose this week in a cup game against the double winners of last season," he told JC Sport.
"Redbridge are one of the best teams in the MSFL and had an excellent result last week against Faithfold, but we are really looking forward to testing ourselves against them."
Is Josh Kennet playing? That is what Hendon fans will be asking before kick-off. If he does, they might need to put two or even three players on the man who destroyed Faithfold almost single-handedly. In fact it could be a case of look away now.
He stole the show against Faithfold last week, registering a hat-trick with three stunning strikes. He instantly won over the fans and eased the pain of the loss of MSFL Player of the Year Daran Bern. But manager Eilon Kennet was keen to stress the importance of every team member, in what was a faultless display.
I expect Redbridge to put out a very strong team in the Morrison. The thought of Dean Nyman, Bern and Kennet would certainly put bums on seats and it would scare the Hustlers.
But whoever lines up for Redbridge, I expect them to have too much class for Hendon on the day.
JC team news: Chaim Gothold and Alon Blitz are suspended for Hendon, while keeper Arthur Caplin will be missing due to a family barmitzvah.
Venue – West Hendon, Ref – W. Blake
JC star man: Lee Bibring (RJC)
DC Prediction: Hendon Utd SC B 1 Redbridge JC A 4
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NORTH LONDON RAIDERS B vs FAITHFOLD A
Bouncebackability is the name of the game for both Raiders B and Faithfold A.
It will also give the Superhoops the chance to avenge the recent 2-1 defeat against L'Orange at the very same venue.
David Dinkin and Dan Grossman were the goal men in a match that Raiders got spot on tactically.
Crushed 5-0 at home to Redbridge in the Anekstein, Faithfold fans will be looking for a big reaction from their heroes.
Faithfold manager Zuriel Solomon told JC Sport: "We have got over Sunday's performance and can only look to your next game. Raiders have had some good results and we know the threat they pose as they have beaten us before.
"But we will be a different outfit Sunday, we know we are a very good team and will be on it on Sunday."
The Raiders were edged out by Harmen in the JC League Cup last weekend in a game of missed chances for the Brunel boys. And what made it even more painful is that they failed to breach the Harmen backline missing a recognised keeper.
Home fans will arrive knowing that their team must start converting their chances again, in what could be a backs-to-the-wall job.
Raiders boss Rob Richman told JC Sport: "The cup draw really hasn’t been kind to us this year, having lost to Harmen A last week we now have the tough ask of facing Faithfold at Brunel in the Morrison.
"Though we beat them earlier this season we know they are a top side with a very talented squad. Last week was not up the high standards we set ourselves and we will be looking for a much improved performance this week.”
JC team news: Faithfold will give a late fitness test to Alex Levack, who hobbled off 15 minutes into the Redbridge game last week. Alex Kaye is another fitness doubt.
JC team news: For Raiders, captain Rik Sherman and Dan Polak return while Mike Hershman awaits a late fitness test. Shim Bensoor and Jonny Hesselberg are definitely out. Nicky Woolf is still troubled by his long-standing back problem.
Venue – Brunel Uni, Ref – A. Djanogly
JC star man: Daryl Phillips (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: NL Raiders B 1 Faithfold A 2
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SOUTHGATE HARMEN A vs SHIRLEY PARK
Dan Uzan, the Harmen manager, will not be taking Division Three title hopefuls Shirley Park lightly on Sunday.
With an array of household MSFL names including Harmen old boy Stefan Benfredj and Sacha Benfredj plotting Harmen's downfall, it's clear that the first goal is crucial on Sunday.
"Shirley Park next week won't be easy," Uzan told JC Sport. "We know one or two of their players so know what to expect.
"But the win over Raiders B has lifted our spirits and I know the boys are determined to win every game from now on."
Craig Ellis was the goal hero again Raiders last Sunday, but it was the heroics of makeshift keeper, captain Jon Morris that earned the plaudits.
He put life and limb on the line in the name of victory and came out smelling of roses.
Strikes from Plotnik and Gold put Shirley top of Division Three last week. They have hardly put a foot wrong this season and will be relishing the prospect of taking another big name scalp.
Park boss Dave Lusman told JC Sport: "It's a big day out for the Park faithful this Sunday against Harmen at the home of the brave.
"We go into this fixture representing Division Three. We're not expecting miracles but aim to give a good account of ourselves.
"We have a few key players out this Sunday including Nicky Plotnek, Gideon Gold and Saul Conway, who have other commitments, so our fringe players are going to have to step up and fill the boots of Park's best.
"Nevertheless, we have a stronger squad this season, with players battling across the field to hold their position in the team and we should be able to give Harmen a run for their money. We'll go down fighting. Park life."
It's a shame Park will have some of their big guns missing and I expect Harmen to have too much about them on the day.
Venue – Gladstone Park, Ref – J. Feenstra
JC star man: Alex Bourne (Harmen)
DC Prediction: Southgate Harmen A 3 Shirley Park 2
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WOODFORD WANDERERS vs LONDON MACCABI LIONS A
Victory for Woodford would register on the richter scale as they get ready to welcome the giants from Rowley Lane.
The east Londoners have had some trials and tribulations this season but a win against the former cup winners could put their name on the backpage of the JC, in lights.
Alex Aviram knows that his big guns must fire if they are to live with a Lions team blessed with the perfect mix of youth and experience.
A bumper crowd is expect at Redbridge Sports Centre with Aviram asking home fans to crank up the volume.
"The team is in good sprits after recording our first league win." Aviram told JC Sport. "We are going into every game as if its our cup final. Progression up the table is key.
"On our day we can beat anyone of the teams in this league but consistency has been our problem this season so I am not under-estimating anyone."
The Lions go into the tie on the back of a 3-0 defeat in the London FA Trophy. But they could have a very different look and feel about them, with speculation that London Lions boss Tony Gold could be involved in some capacity. He remained locked in contract negotiations ahead of the tie.
The visitors are expected to line up with a combination of Sunday A-team players and a couple of players from the Under 18 squad.
The bottom line is that whoever plays for Lions will be a class act. The Morrison is high on the list of priorities for the club this season and they will put out a team they believe can come away from east London victorious.
JC team news: Woodford remain depleted by injuries across the park. Darryl Green and Craig Mervish are sidelined with hamstring injuries, keeper Ben Rosenthal misses out due to back problems, while Harrison Midda and Aviram faces late fitness tests. Nuriel Avhram is away until after the new year.
Venue – Redbridge Sports Centre, Ref – J. Burchell
JC star man: Ollie Leslie (Lions)
DC Prediction: Woodford Wanderers 1 LM Lions A 3
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OAKWOOD vs NORSTAR A
I haven’t quite yet worked Norstar out this season. I tip them to lose and they win. I tip them to win and they lose. Either I’ve become a bad pundit or they can’t take the pressure!
Having done the double over Oakwood this season in the league, confidence is high in the Norstar camp although when the sides met in the cup last season it was Oakwood who triumphed with a 3-1 victory.
The big question is whether manager Phil Peters will decide to put out his strongest side, or rotate his players as the team have two big league games coming up before the end of the year.
Norstar have an almost full squad to choose from for the first time this season. Jonny Kay returns from three weeks in Australia and it's no surprise that the team's recent dip in form has coincided with the absence of their most influential player.
Rumour has it Scott Parker had been watching Kay throughout August as he prepared for his deadline day move for Spurs and both players are unbeaten in their respective colours, with their teams only losing in their absence.
Having beaten the Oaks 3-2 at Parmiters, Peters is confident his men can book their place in the next round, but he knows it will be tough.
"We sense the Oakwood boys might be quite up for this one having been comprehensively beaten by us last time out," he told JC Sport. "Plus there's the added bonus of a trip to Manchester to see mummy and daddy if they get the right draw in the last 16 (although Mrs Slavin is currently in Cheadle with everything crossed and is rumoured to have already started baking).
"That said, we're due a good cup run and on our day have shown we're capable of beating anyone so let's see if we can go all the way this year."
The mighty Oaks were back to their best last Sunday, putting Neasden B to the sword 4-0. Matt Geey (2), Rob Davidson and Dan Ash found the net in a one-sided contest.
Joint-manager Ric Blank told JC Sport: "It was a much-improved performance. We dominated the entire game and, but for some poor finishing, we'd have been out of sight at half time.
"The second half was all us and despite some more profilgate finishing.
"Next up Norstar in the cup, and we are very much looking forward to welcoming them once again to Parmiters."
Having under-achieved in the competition, Oakwood will be looking to set the record straight. They have ammunition to go a long way and I think their appetite will prove the difference on Sunday.
JC team news: For Norstar, Sammy Kalms is out, still recovering from a back injury and isn't willing to take any chances ahead of his wedding in a fortnight's time. Daniel Gilbert is in Madrid.
Venue – Parmiters, Ref – L. Benson
JC star man: Rob Davidson (Oakwood)
DC Prediction: Oakwood 2 Norstar A 1
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CHIGWELL ATHLETIC vs L’EQUIPE
If you’re looking for a home banker, then look no further than Chigwell.
Having missed a great opportunity in the Anekstein last Sunday, Richard Slater's men will be looking to put on a good show in front of their own fans. A cricket score could be order of the day.
They went ahead twice against Brady last weekend, but strikes from Lloyd Becker and Jamie Fox were not enough to take them through in a match they went on to lose 4-2.
Becker has hit a rich vein of form and if he and Glenn Michaels can click, it could be a torrid morning for the L'Equipe backline.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Slater told JC Sport: "I’m pleased November is out the way. It was a bad month for us as we have been hit hard with injuries to vital players, but finally we’re starting to get players back just in time for two big league games coming up against Norstar A and RJC B."
A little piece of history will be created on Sunday. Slater went on to say: "Chigwell Athletic have never played L’Equipe, so they’re totally unknown to us. Being the underdogs they have nothing to lose and I’m sure will come to the May and give it a crack. But we’ll just focus on a professional job to get though to the last 16."
I advise L'Equipe to adopt cautious tactics on Sunday, or else they will be left chasing shadows. They should look to get numbers behind the ball and try to frustrate, but if they concede early, I can see the east Londoners drumming up a big score.
Venue – Peter May, KO – 10.15am, Ref – A. Myerson
JC star man: Paul Lenchner (Chigwell)
DC Prediction: Chigwell Athletic 5 L'Equipe 0
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LONDON MACCABI LIONS B vs FC TEAM C
Having taken Hendon A to extra time last weekend, you have to fancy the Lions here.
James Gold continued his imperious run of form, running a normally tight Hendon defence ragged. But his teammates were ultimately unable to hold on and were left to reflect on what might have been.
Centre half Nick Astaire also did not deserve to be on the losing side. He was an absolute rock at the heart of defence and if the pair click again on Sunday, it should be a stroll in the park for the Lions.
Lions boss Jamie Kyte was rightly proud of his troops and he hopes that the exertions of 120 minutes of football doesn't take its toll. I expect him to shuffle his pack a bit, but with like for like quality-wise.
FC Team were involved in a titanic tussle of their own last Sunday - drawing 2-2 against Raiders C. The first team to take points off L'Orange, manager Mike Myers was left to reflect on what might've been in a game they led 2-0.
Max Worth, Dave Cohen, Dave Wexler and Rob Sandford have all played their part this season but nothing less than 110 per cent from each and every player will be enough to keep them neck and neck with the men from Rowley Lane.
Myers will encourage his troops to play with no fear. They certainly have nothing to lose and I can see them gaining plenty of fans, if not the result.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – M. Cohen
JC star man: Adam Kosky (LML)
DC Prediction: London Maccabi Lions B 4 FC Team C 2
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JC MSFL DIVISION ONE
TOP-SCORER
13 - Jamie Kent (Brixton)
REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE B vs NORTH WEST NEASDEN B
New leaders Redbridge B will be looking to go four points clear when they take on Neasden B for the first time this season.
Stirling Kay’s men boast the only unbeaten record in the division and they go into the game in buoyant mood following an impressive 3-1 victory at former leaders Norstar last week.
Dan Orgel and Jamie Cooper have been among the star men in recent outings. Both registered in Wembley last Sunday, with Cooper 40-yard thunderbolt the pick of the bunch.
Looking ahead to Sunday, RJC boss Stirling Kay told JC Sport: "We go into this game very aware how Neasden can be very dangerous, as Norstar found out two weeks ago where they suffered there first defeat. They have had mixed results, so they will be very dangerous. We will give them total respect that we give every team we play.
"We will prepare for the game in our normal manner. We expect a very hard game.we will go out and match them physically and mentally and try to pass them off the pitch.
"We do have a number of injuries, so once again our squad we be pushed to the limit."
Neasden were well beaten by Oakwood last week and manager Daniel Hodes hopes that it was no more than a bad day at the office.
As they showed against Norstar, NWN can beat anyone on their day but much depends on who they have out.
Ricky Engleman has been the talk of the town since joining the MSFL and Hodes is keeping his fingers crossed that his star man plays here.
Otherwise, it could be a long morning for Neasden.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – B. Pieters
JC star man: Scot Kay (Redbridge)
DC Prediction: Redbridge JC B 3 NW Neasden B 1
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DIVISION TWO
TOP-SCORER
15 - Doron Weinstein (Redbridge C)
13 - Ben Simons (Faithfold C)
FAITHFOLD B vs GLENTHORNE UNITED A
Meeting for the first time in the league this season, both Faithfold B and Glenthorne A know defeat isn't an option.
Both sides have recorded some excellent results and played some great football, but as yet, consistency has been a major issue.
One of the things I like about Glenthorne boss Dan Lipman is his honesty. After the 2-0 defeat at home to promotion rivals Camden Park, he told JC Sport: "The better team won. We just didn't turn up at the races.
"Two horrendous mistakes gifted them two very soft goals, but overall they performed and we didn't."
It's clear that Lipman won't settle for second best on Sunday. He wants a big reaction from his boys and knows the three points could be crucial come the end of the season.
He said: "We'll pick ourselves up after Sunday and head into the Faithfold game focused on getting back to winning ways."
A goal from Adam Newman was the highlight for Faithfold in the hard fought 1-1 draw against Redbridge last week.
The Superhoops have yet to beat a team from east London in the league this season and manager Rob Shooman knows what to expect on Sunday.
I can see this game being won and lost in midfield and given Faithfold's dodgy recent home form, I'm tipping Glenthorne to nick it.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – S. Levy
JC star man: Ashley Stanton (Glenthorne)
DC Prediction: Faithfold B 1 Glenthorne Utd A 2
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FAITHFOLD C vs CAMDEN PARK
Giant-killers Faithfold C know they must start to transfer their cup form into league points as they prepare to take on table-topping Camden.
David Garson’s men produced one of the shocks of the round last Sunday when they stuck five past first division Montana. Quite incredibly, they have failed to win any of their eight league games and they will start as underdogs here.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Garson told JC Sport: "We have been very reliant on Ben 'Boris' Simons to score so last week it was good to see all of the midfield get on the scoresheet.
"Indeed there was such shock in the Portnoi house at him scoring for the first time this decade. News of him scoring was met with disbelief especially as it was also rumoured that he kept his eyes open and won a header."
Camden have the bit between their teeth right now and I can see them giving Faithfold a torrid time on Sunday.
Last weekend they ran out worthy winners against Glenthorne A - a team that have completed the double over Faithfold.
Two quality finishes from Josh Toff saw them home as Josh Marks' men kept their first clean sheet in the league this season.
4-1 winners over Faithfold in September, it's no surprise to see Camden start the game as strong favourites.
"There's a really positive mood in the squad at the moment after two good wins," Camden's Nick Kagan told JC Sport. "But we really need to guard against complacency and casualness setting in.
"Although Faithfold aren't having the best season in the league, they've had a couple of big cup results which haven't gone unnoticed and we're looking for an open, attacking game with another solid performance at the back.
"There's fierce competition for places as everyone is available for this weekend. Myself and gaffer Josh Marks know we've got a job on our hands to win back our positions in the 14 for Sunday as other players have flourished whilst we've been injured.
"As a result, the intensity at training this week should be very high, and we'll be looking to carry that through to Sunday."
Intensity will be the key word on Sunday and once that first whistle blows, I think Camden will be calling all the shots.
JC team news: Faithfold welcome back James Stanton, Charlie Resnick, Jamie Taylor and Adam Newman from his highly successful loan to the club's A-team as he is cup-tied. And despite a wonderful performance at centre back, David 'the flying potato' Garson returns to goal, while free-kick specialist Simon Beresford will rest himself until the next round, or come on if Faithfold have a free kick in their own half.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – M. Lavender
JC star man: Max Saunders (Camden)
DC Prediction: Faithfold C 1 Camden Park 3
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FC TEAM B vs REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE C
Dan Gordon, the Redbridge player-manager, breathed a sigh of relief this week when what looked like a serious back injury was diagnosed as nothing more than back spasms.
Nicknamed Flash, by me, the Liverpool fans, went off in the early stages of last week's 1-1 draw against Faithfold B. He missed another goal from striker partner Doron Weinstein in a game where defender Ranaan Firmin impressed.
Indeed, Weinstein and Gordon were on the mark in the corresponding fixture, when RJC ran out 4-2 winners. Having taken only one point out of a possible six in their last two games, Gordon will encourage his troops to hit the ground running on Sunday.
He told JC Sport: "Following a tough draw against Faithfold last week, we travel to face FC Team B which we know will be a tough game.
"This week we are going to be taking an under-strength team as we have a number of injuries. I will be out of action for around four weeks with a back injury and James Ryan is in New York this weekend, so we will really be rallying the troops.
"FC Team will be a very difficult game for us and I hope we have signed our new striker in time for this week."
Gordon went on to say: "Our back five has been solid the past few weeks and are going to be tested once again to the max this week, but I have every faith we will get the points on the board.
"Elliot Castle and Hadley Silver have been excellent forming a great partnership in the centre of midfield and Doron Weinstein has been outstanding up top.
"We have full respect for every team we face but if we don’t get three points on Sunday that is our hopes of the title over. The boys know what they have to do.”
FC Team led Norstar B twice last Sunday, but they were unable to finish the job. Having played the most games in the division they are by no means safe, but it appears that they have it all to do here.
Freddie Marks and Adam Goldsmith have been in terrific form this season but much depends on how they defend and contest the all-important midfield areas.
If Redbridge score early, I can only see one winner. The battle between Adam Goldsmith and Firmin is key.
Venue – Meadow Park, Ref – S. Russell
JC star man: Ranaan Firmin
DC Prediction: FC Team B 1 Redbridge JC C 3
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DIVISION THREE
TOP-SCORER
16 - Saul Conway (Shirley Park)
14 - Stefan Benfredj (Shirley Park)
GLENTHORNE UNITED B vs LOS BLANCOS
Glenthorne and Blancos lock horns for the second time this season with the Thornes looking to complete a pre-Chanukah double.
Joint-player-manager Craig Sandford and Simon Bagel were the marksmen in a 2-0 win in September tainted in controversy.
Blancos were unhappy with a challenge on their keeper but they must keep their focus on Sunday, and not let the occasion get to them.
The Thornes have been the model of consistency with seven consecutive wins putting them in a strong position. And with JLGB to follow, managers Sam Rosenthal and Sandford hope to take their boys clear at the top by the turn of the year.
The have also kept four clean sheets in that time and will be looking to shut Blancos out for a second time.
Joel Minsky's men thought they had done enough to earn a point against promotion rivals Shirley last week, only to come unstuck by an injury time winner.
Joel Kutner and Sami Birnbaum were their scorers in a thrilling encounter and another action-packed morning is on the cards here.
Sandford has turned into the one of the most prolific strikers in the lower leagues and Blancos will need to cut the supply to the Glenthorne sharp-shooter. But with players such as Dan Lassman and the Rubin brothers on top of their game, I can't see them getting anything on Sunday.
Venue – London Marathon Playing Fields, Ref – M. Vandermolen
JC star man: Ashley Rubin (Glenthorne)
DC Prediction: Glenthorne Utd B 2 Los Blancos 1
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NORTH WEST NEASDEN C vs CATFORD & BROMLEY MACCABI
Neasden have cracked home 10 goals in their last two games and they will be looking to cash in against the Cats on Sunday.
Player-manager Louis Taylor was one of six players on the scoresheet in the demolition of Hendon C last Sunday, and the gaffer will be looking for more of the same here.
Jon Benjamin, Richie Braham, Rafi Cohen, Adam Levene and Oli Joseph also found the net as the Neasden boys recorded their fifth league win.
But it could be all change on Snday. Taylor told JC Sport: "We have another large squad available and I may give a game to some of those who haven't had many chances recently.
"That being said, we will still have a very strong core. With Adam Levene at the back, I'm confident we can go and win the game and keep pushing the teams at the top."
We saw the best and worst of Catford in the cup last Sunday, and it would be safe to say that joint-manager Adam Lewis hopes to see a repeat of the second half performance against Raiders A last week.
The tie was over before the Cats got started as they trailed 4-0 at the break. But they were much-improved in the second half with Ashley Stokes grabbing a deserved goal.
League points will be the goal in Sunday in their first meeting of the season with Neasden.
Battling it out at the bottom with Hendon, Blizzard and JLGB, Lewis believes that victory is a realistic target at Copthall.
"We'll be looking to get back on track on Sunday," Lewis told JC Sport. "We learnt a few lessons against Raiders A on Sunday and will be looking to put them into practice this weekend.
"Now we've just the league to concentrate on, we feel that every game from here on in is winnable, providing we play to the required standard, which we failed to do in the first half last Sunday.
"We've experimented a fair amount with people in different positions recently, but will be looking to revert to our most solid team from here on in."
The beauty of Neasden this season is that they can score goals from anywhere across the park. They are ticking all the boxes at the moment and I think they will have the edge against the Cats in a high-scoring affair.
JC team news: Elliot Setyon comes back from injury for Neasden, but Jamie Isenwater is away.
Venue – Copthall, Ref – N. Burns
JC star man: Oli Joseph (Neasden)
DC Prediction: NW Neasden C 3 Catford & Bromley 2
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UJIA vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB C
Having crushed Hendon 4-0 a fortnight ago, a UJIA win looks a safe bet here.
Ben Nassim (2), Assi Avital and Ashley Freeman fired the bullets to destroy Hendon last month and the free-scoring Avital will be the man to stop again here.
Nassim, Avital and Jeremy Leigh have maintained a high level through the season, but manager Darren Rolfe will remind his troops they must play for 90 minutes on Sunday.
The alarm bells are ringing long and clear for Hendon C this season. Without a win since early October, they have leaked 18 goals in their last four games and Avital and co will be licking their lips.
There is talk that Hendon will attempt to double park the bus in front of their goal, but the difference is that UJIA have a plan B and C this season and as long as they play to their strengths, they should go on to register an eighth league success.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – L. Thorne
JC star man: Matt Radstone (UJIA)
DC Prediction: UJIA 4 Hendon Utd SC C 1
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DIVISION FOUR
TOP-SCORER
15 - Terry Jeffries (Temple Fortune B)
BRIXTON OLD BOYS B vs BOCA JEWNIORS
Boca go into the rematch with Brixton reflecting on their first-ever point in the MSFL. But ever the perfectionist, manager Sefton Monk believes that it should and could have been three.
Monk is still haunted by the infamous 'phantom' penalty but his men will arrive full of optimism, believing that elusive first win is only 90 minutes away.
He was clearly trying to spice things up in his midweek press conference. Looking ahead to Sunday, Monk told JC Sport: "All we need to do is stay composed and deal with whatever the Stoke of the MSFL throw at us. We will be waiting for the perfect opportunity to play through their defence like the footballing team Boca are."
And in a move straight out of the Sir Alex Ferguson book of mind games, Monk is calling for match referee Neal Cooper to adjust to the "physicality of the Division Four clash". Monk went on to say: "The game ended with a clash between players last weekend but this was all insignificant as to what news came out to the footballing world after that game.
"Lets hope both teams can put their differences behind them and play this week's game as gentleman in respect to the late Gary Speed."
For Boca, 16-year-old Chandler Monk will be continuing his spell at left-back. The gaffer believes that the promising youngster "gets better and better every week".
Likewise, Anton Nyman will be aiming to play in the centre after impressing last time out. Jamie Weinrich will be looking to add to his goal tally to recreate his form of the past as the fearless striker. Monk believes the marksman is "finally back to full fitness and is menace to teams up and down the MSFL".
Boca fans will also keep a watchful eye on pint-sized centre back Farrell 'Cannavaro' Monk, who will be looking to adding to his tally after claiming his first ever goal last week.
With six possible regulars out this week, Boca assistant Farrell Monk says: "Our team is more than capable at Brixton B as last week showed. Over the course of the season, squad experience is important, so having a few first choice players unavailable will allow us to test our strength in depth.
"We have already released two players this season due to the strength of our squad, but we are always looking to improve."
Moving away from the match temporarily, Sefton Monk noted his "shock" of the news of his former gaffer Viv Emanuel parting with Montana". Monk paid tribute, saying: "I learnt my trade off Viv and I gained many valuable lessons from him. I wish him the best in his future endeavours."
Brixton boss Daniel Selt branded last week's result as unacceptable. He told JC Sport: "The performance was atrocious and we would like to improve and win this week.
"The aim is to score a lot of goals this week and we will be changing a few things to try and make that happen.
"The urgency will be there and I know if we perform how we can do then three points are there for the taking."
It sounds like Selt has a trick or two up his sleeve, so instinct would tell be to back Brixton to take maximum points.
JC team news: Boca come into the game missing key men as the Sassoon brothers, James Edelman and Alex Sherr are all away for this fixture. Player-manager Sefton Monk is a doubt as he has come down with an illness along with a hip injury sustained last time out.
Venue – Clowes, Ref – N. Cooper
JC star man: Danny Sherman (Brixton)
DC Prediction: Brixton OB B 3 Boca Jewniors 1
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NORTH LONDON RAIDERS C vs ATHLETIC BILBAUM
Oli Shorts, the Raiders boss, was proud of his team despite their 100 per cent record grinding to a halt against FC Team C last Sunday.
L'Orange showed great fighting spirit to come from two goals down to earn a point, thanks to two strikes from top-scorer Ben Hart.
But he believes that things could get even tougher on Sunday.
"It's probably not the greatest time to play Bilbaum," Shorts told JC Sport. "They're a team at the top of their game and it's a credit to the management team that we're the only side so far that have managed to get maximum points from them this season.
"We're looking at a very similar to squad to last week, however joining our absentee list is Matt Keston and Matt Benett.
"It's a huge game and my players need to understand the importance of this fixture. Last weekend's comeback really showed the character of the team and if we can replicate that for 90 minutes this Sunday then I'm confident we can keep our unbeaten record going."
Having ended Brady's perfect record, the Baums will be determined to end Raiders' unbeaten run.
A sensational treble by Jake Gilbert saw them run out deserved winners against Brady.
Described as "clinical and well-organised" by Brady boss Josh Dagul, Baums joint-boss Mark Pasha, who runs the team alongside Ed Green, reflected on a good morning's work.
"This is up there in the Baums' greatest hits," Pasha told JC Sport. "Each and every player can be proud of his performance. It was a gritty yet accomplished team effort.
"Brady played some excellent football at times, went 1-0 up and had their chances, but as has been the case throughout the season the Baums displayed great character and determination to get back into the game and notch up a thoroughly deserved three points, despite the underdog status.
"Whilst everyone in green and white deserves high praise, particular mention this week to Jake Gilbert for his first goals at the Bernebaum, Eli Lew for a storming central midfield performance and Joe Bekhor and Adam Landes for their Sunday morning defensive master class." High praise indeed.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Pasha went on to say: "Everyone involved knows the magnitude of this week's game, especially given last week's results. Confidence is high in camp Baum, but there is absolutely no underestimating Sunday's opponents.
"It will be a tough game against a quality side, which will require the most Baumest of performances to come out with all three points.
"There's no room for complacency and only a massive team effort will give us a chance of victory. We will need the focus of an elephant trying to squeeze into the back seat of a Mini ... and given how the preparations have gone this week (plently of egg nog and plently of star jumps), I have no doubt that this will be the mind set come Sunday. COYB!"
Sunday will come down to two key battles - Lew and Toby Katz in the centre of the park and Bekhor and Landes trying to silence Hart. It could come down to survival of the fittest.
Venue – Hatfield Uni, Ref – M. De La Fuente
JC star man: Joe Bekhor (Bilbaum)
DC Prediction: NL Raiders C 2 Athletic Bilbaum 2
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TEMPLE FORTUNE B vs JEWVENTUS
Jewve boss Gabriel John felt his men let themselves down when they played Temple Fortune B a fortnight ago and he'll be looking to settle some scores on Sunday.
It finished 4-1 to the Fortune boys with Dean Ingram (2), Terry Jefferies and Joey Glynne on target.
John is well aware of the threat posed by Jeffries and Glynne - arguably the most potent strike-force in the division.
But John has a pair of decent strikers of his own and with Nigel Someck and James Alexander keen to steal the show, this has all the makings of a real thriller.
However, Sunday isn't all about the strikers. There is plenty of talent on show with the Fortune midfield looking to make their mark again.
John has special plans to ensure his troops don't get out-muscled again. The 5-1 success over Athletico was arguably the perfect preparation, but the Jewve gaffer knows that it will be much tougher on Sunday.
Attack could be the best form of defence for Jewve. Anything else could spell disaster.
Venue – Gosling Park, Ref – Q. Fox
JC star man: Dave Sawyer (Fortune)
DC Prediction: Temple Fortune B 3 Jewventus 3