By, Danny Caro
30 min read
ByDanny Caro, Danny Caro
FC Team A, FC Team B and Redbridge Jewish Care B will be out for revenge on Matchday 10 of the season which features some mouth-watering action in the Peter Morrison Trophy and MGBSFL. Danny Caro flavours the action.
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MATCH PHOTOS: HMH vs AFC FLIXTON
MATCH PHOTOS: NW NEASDEN vs AC WHETSTONE
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DANNY CARO'S PREM DIV TEAM OF THE WEEK
DANNY CARO'S DIV TWO TEAM OF THE WEEK
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DANNY CARO'S GOAL OF THE WEEK - DAN STANTON
DANNY CARO'S SAVE OF THE WEEK - MARK GLUCKSMAN
DANNY CARO'S QUOTE OF THE WEEK - DAVID GORDON
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CYRIL ANEKSTEIN CUP ROUND 3 DRAW
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PHOTOGALLERIES FROM THE SEASON
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SEASON
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YOUR WEEKEND PREVIEW STARTS HERE:
PETER MORRISON TROPHY ROUND TWO
PETER MORRISON TROPHY ROUND 2 DRAW
FC TEAM A vs MACCABI LONDON LIONS BLUE
Premier Division rivals FC Team A and Lions Blue for the second time in a week, with revenge the name of the game for Ben Gilbey’s boys.
Gilbey felt his team “controlled the majority” of last week’s game, when they went down 2-1 against Jamie Kyte’s troops.
The prolific David Joseph Cohen is nearing double figures after breaching the Lions defence – his ninth goal in eight starts, while Gilbey piled praise on centre half Ed Weisz, describing him as “an absolute rock”.
Gilbey remains upbeat that results will follow and he’ll be hoping Ed Bloom returns to the Green team following his heroics last Sunday.
Ahead of the game, Gilbey told JC Sport: "It is hard to predict what Lions team is going to come out, because it varies week to week, but we can be sure of another hard challenge and good game.
"After heavy disapointment last weekend, where I believe we deserved more out the game, we need to make sure we go and get that win this week."
Lions boss Kyte insists he will not rest any players for their clash. He told JC Sport: “It’s the same as last week for us and we’re hoping for a win to move into the next round of the PM.
JC team news: Team will have their regular full-strength side out this week, however, the long-term injuries of Adam Aminoff, Jez Julius, Oli Senchal and James Cooper remain sidelined.
Lions are without James Gold due to business commitments and Joel Reuben (suspension). Sam Lipton returns and they hope to unveil a new keeper on loan.
Venue – Old Camdenians, Ref – Andy Myerson
JC star man: Ed Weisz (Team)
DC Prediction: Team 2 Lions 1
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HEATON PARK ROVERS vs FAITHFOLD A
The Morrison could offer Faithfold most realistic hope of silverware, but they can take nothing for granted ahead of the trip to Manchester to take on MJSL high-flyers HPR.
With four defeats to their name in the league, the title already looks beyond Zuriel Solomon’s men and they have a tricky match at Oakwood A coming up in the Anekstein. So it’s fair to say they could put all their eggs into one basket.
Faithfold ultimately finished second best against Hendon last Sunday. They lacked creativity and, despite huffing and puffing, they came out second best in the physical battles too.
But in a one-off game, they can be awkward opponents and the cup competitions traditionally bring out the best in them.
HPR go into the tie on the back of a big win over Oakhill Lions, courtesy of a treble from Jonny Franks.
Harry Roach is another player looking to shoot Faithfold down, with Danny Lewis looking to register for the second week in a row.
Boss David Seligman was delighted with his team’s second-half performance last Sunday. “We showed our class despite the fact we were missing some of our players,” he told JC Sport.
“in the end we had too much quality. We are annoyed to have conceded a sloppy goal but are looking impressive in both defence and attack. Our next opponents will know they’re in for a tough test.”
Faithfold, you have been warned.
JC star man: Benji Dymant (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: HPR 1 Faithfold 2
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BLIZZARD STORM vs MACCABI MASTERS REPS
Simon Linden is predicting a tough test as his Division One promotion hopefuls look to book their place in round three when they welcome the MMFL Rep Team.
Dean Shaw was at his magical best last weekend when they put NLR C to the sword in the Anekstein and strong runs in both cup competitions will certainly put a big smile on the Blizzard chief.
Robbie Berwald will also be keen to impress after registering his first goal in the famous Blizzard colours, although he looks in for a stern test against MMFL’s Nigel Goldthorpe and Jon Yantin.
Ahead of the game, Linden told JC Sport: “I'm looking forward to this one - they will be an experienced team full of good players so I'm expecting a very tough game.
“We want be in the last 16 of both cups and I want to see us push ourselves in every competition.”
Having reached round two after a penalty shoot-out win, the Masters boys will have no fear, in a squad made up predominantly of players from Raiders, Brady and Scrabble Harmen, especially with Faithfold and Chigwell Athletic wrapped up in league action.
Managers Elan Ovits and Jon Yantin will have their team set up to be organised and hard to break down, with Adam Gishen looking to pull the strings in midfield and, possibly, Braham Hochenberger keen to ensure the visitors keep pace with the likes of Ben Ellis and Shaw.
This is clearly a game they feel they can win. Ovits told JC Sport: “We’re looking forward to the cup game against Blizzard on the back of a hard fought victory against Kings Crown.
“With a combined 40 years of playing Maccabi football, Jon and I know that Blizzard Storm will be very tough opponents and should be favourites to win the game. Perhaps they could go easy on us old foggies!”
Yantin added: “Players stepping up to Maccabi Masters are always surprised at the on-going standard and agility of teams averaging 40 years of age.
"We kept going neck and neck for 120 minutes in the last round and hope to show again that there is football life past 35 years old!"
Elliot ‘Vern’ Gordon could be in for a busy morning in a game that will be won and lost in midfield.
JC team news: Oliver Henry is ruled out with injury, the good news for Blizzard fans is that Conor Brand is back in the squad.
Ref – Mark Jacob
JC star man: Robbie Berwald (Blizzard)
DC Prediction: Blizzard 3 MMFL 2
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FC TEAM B vs FC TEAM C
Revenge is the name for FC Team B following last week’s heart-breaking derby defeat, when a last-gasp strike from Dan Stanton earned the C’s a memorable win in the league.
Having dreamt about reaching a Jewish cup final over the years, Young will challenge his squad to rise to the occasion and show the C’s who is top dog. The C’s may have the big names, but Sunday will all boil down to which side wants it most.
David Grossman and Shuey Mirwis breached the C-team defence last Sunday, but David Gordon’s star-studded line-up struck back through Aron Barnes and goal machine Adam Stolerman.
Gordon knows that Sunday’s opponents will be desperate to progress, and his boys have nothing to lose in my eyes.
He told JC Sport: “We are expecting another tough game this weekend against the B team and we will be taking this match just as seriously as the league, although I will be giving a chance to some of the players who didn’t feature last weekend.
“We know what to expect now from the B-team now and it is important that we pick up where we left off on Sunday, when we finished the match very strongly.”
I expect this to be another barnstorming contest and don’t be surprised if it goes all the way.
Venue – Old Camdenians, Ref – Barry David
JC star man: Shuey Mirwis (Team)
DC Prediction: Team B 1 Team C 1 (Bs to win on penalties)
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HMH WILDCATS vs NORSTAR LONDON RAIDERS C
Zack Gothelf is refusing to hit the panic button following NLR C’s poor start to the season.
Their league form has been below part and last week they went tumbling out of the cup at the hands of those boys from Blizzard.
But a solid training session in midweek saw them address one or two issues and it’s important they put in a strong team performance ahead of a testing few weeks in the run-up to Chanukah.
Assistant-boss David Domb told JC Sport: “We had a tough game last week, and it will be an even bigger test of character this time around.
“It's the same as any other game though, it's one we just have to win. We don't know too much about the team were up against, but no doubt they'll be a decent side, and they'll be looking to impress in this competition.
“We have some difficult league games coming up before the end of the month, and we've just got to pick up a win before that. We still have players missing but we can't use that as an excuse. A good win Sunday could kickstart our season.”
The HMH club, run by Nick Sonenfield, is one of the great success stories of Jewish football. The club features 36 teams from under-7’s through to Masters, and last week their U18 team pushed Morrison hopefuls AFC Flixton all the way. Now all eyes are on the wildcats.
Having come through the HMH derby, the hosts will have their tails up as they look to claim a big scalp.
Boss Nir Wegrzyn told JC Sport: "We are an U18 side, but the boys are all U17 and we're all very excited about our first time in the Morrison. We have been together as s team for 10 years now, and this is the first time we are playing against 'men'.
Home fans will be looking for big performances from captain Charlie Grossman, their stalwart midfield lynchpin. Wegrzyn added: "We look to him to hold the team together, and protect the back four. Up front we have Anthony Meir, our very own ginger Pele! We look to him to run behind, hold the ball and score the goals.
Wegrzyn will tell his team they have nothing to lose and if they believe in themselves and get that important first goal, things will be interesting …
JC team news: Raiders welcome back Marc Woolfe after missing the last two months through injury. Jonny Blain, Jonny Samuel and Liam Stein are among those that are unavailable.
Ref – Martin Fox
JC star man: Anthony Meir (HMH)
DC Prediction: HMH 3 NLR 2
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HARMEN vs CAMDEN PARK
Winning the league is a big ask for Harmen this season, but there’s absolutely no reason why the table-toppers cannot go all the way in the Jewish FA Cup.
Last Sunday’s win at leaders NLR has given everyone in the Harmen squad a massive lift, as will the fact that, I can reveal, hotshot James Gershfield is my October Player of the Month.
Gersh has given Harmen another dimension this season. They look a vastly improved model from the team that finished third in Division One last season, and the acquisition of Max Shields is another excellent piece of business.
With George Fierstone and Marc Foster bang in form, I see few weaknesses in this Harmen team right now, although that’s not to say that Camden will ask questions of them.
Harmen joint-manager Joel Alterman told JC Sport: "We will be looking to maintain our momentum after last week's win, but we will be wary of the problems that Camden will present to us.
"Having played alongside Rob Hershkorn nearly 10 years ago, I know how quickly he can change a game, creating chances out of nowhere and he will definitely be one that we keep our eye on although Camden do have strong players in all positions.
Our major team news this week comes in the form of a new signing and one that has got all the Harmen boys buzzing. Mike Pearson. In the words of Oli Leslie: 'the most prolific goalscorer in MSFL history has signed for Harmen'. This signing of massive intent gives us a huge boost and will further enhance our chances of competing with the strongest teams in the league and perhaps win a trophy."
Having climbed to the top of Division One, some may see the cup as a distraction for the Camden boys. But the big games are coming thick and fast, and given they want to be a Premier Division team next season, this will provide them of a good test to see exactly where they are.
Rob Hershkorn was their match-winner against Brixton last week. Boss Nick Kagan told me ‘'Bobby H’ is in “the form of his life” at the minute and his head-to-head with the boy Gershfield will be worth the admission fee alone.
Camden boss Nick Kagan is relishing Sunday's test. He told JC Sport: "Last season in the Premier was a difficult season for us, for a number of reasons we feel we really let ourselves down.
"Talent-wise we are confident we can match anyone in Jewish football, and some of our performances last year proved that. However, we were our own worst enemy, losing concentration for short periods in each game, which ultimately cost us our place in the top tier.
"For this reason we feel as if we have a point to prove and we are very much looking forward to this game and have been since it was announced.
"We know a lot of the boys who play for Harmen, they’re a very strong team with some great players, but we're confident that if we play to our potential we can end the game with a win. Either way I’m sure it will be a fantastic game with two very talented and competitive sides battling it out for a place in the next round."
There will be no pressure on Camden on Sunday. A big crowd is expected to turn up and watch the leaders of the top two divisions. The likelihood is that Harmen’s big-game players will rise to the occasion and take them through.
JC team news: Other than long-term absentees Ben Harris and Sam Bennett, Camden will be missing Michael Khalastchi and David Khalastchi this weekend as they are abroad for a family wedding. Gaffer Kagan described it as a "big blow as they are two integral members of the squad, but our squad is strong and deep enough to cope".
Venue – Rowley Lane 3G, Ref – Richard Jaye
JC star man: Marc Foster (Harmen)
DC Prediction: Harmen 2 Camden 1
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REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE B vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB A
It’s the game we’ve all been waiting for ... mate! There won’t be an empty seat in the house as RJC fans have capitalised on a special ‘mate’s rates’ incentive, as the holders come to town.
Having squeezed home in the recent Anekstein meeting, the holders go in search of a cup double against an RJC side who will be waiting for them.
RJC boss Jon Jacobs was backpage news after his rant about Hendon boss David Garbacz and his merry men. He was miffed about the pitch, the changing room and virtually everything else about his north-west London experience. And he’s promising the Hammers “a proper welcome” ahead of the long journey east.
Ahead of the game, Garbacz told JC Sport: “There is no doubt that Redbridge gave us some problems when we played them a couple of weeks ago. They possessed good pace up front and we found ourselves in a scrap which our 10 men did very well to come out of with the win.
“Hopefully we will be keeping 11 men on the pitch this time around and assuming that is the case, at the risk of hugely offending my opposite number once again, I will make the hugely controversial statement of suggesting that, on paper, we should be able to come away with the win again.
“We played very well last week in the league against Faithfold and we are starting to display signs of last year’s form.
“ More than anything, I am looking forward to the “proper East End’s welcome” that we have been promised, which I presume means that our dressing room will be decked out in bunting and balloons and we will be welcomed onto the Fairlop lawns with a fine rendition of “knees up mother Brown” ably led by my old mate Jon. “
RJC have had plenty of time to get over their heartbreak against Hendon. Jacobs told me Sam Sollosi was the best player on the pitch, but I doubt Garbacz will have any special plans to man-mark or try to neutralise the talented youngster.
The manner of last weekend’s win at Faithfold has given Hendon the belief that they can add to their haul of silverware in May as it’s clear to me they are still a team for the big occasion.
JC team news: Goalkeeper Russ Corin is away for Hendon, so veteran Jeremy Reuben will deputise in goal. Avidan Last is suspended after being sent off two weeks ago. Avi Korman is doubtful with a bruised toe.
Venue - Fairlop, Ref – Adam Lewis, KO – 10am
JC star man: Danny Kon (Hendon)
DC Prediction: RJC 1 Hendon 2
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WOODFORD WANDERERS vs REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE A
Tony Charles has played down the importance of Sunday’s meeting with east London rivals Redbridge, and there’s talk that he could rest some big names ahead of the second derby of the season.
A 4-1 defeat at Oakwood has left them wobbling towards the foot of the Premier Division table and with games against FC Team A and Harmen to follow in the next few weeks, a cautious approach may be key on Sunday.
No doubt Mitch Hahn, Harrison Midda and Alex Aviram crave a big cup-final experience, but, speaking this week, it’s clear the Morrison doesn’t rank high on Charles’s agenda.
He told JC Sport: “It is a flawed competition that holds no interest or relevance to us. It gives below average 'footballers' a chance to play at a very ordinary non-league ground.
“We struggle to get 11 players on a Sunday and Redbridge have a multitude of teams in their set-up. They have a lot of good individual players in their A-team, while we are just a group of friends who have progressed up the leagues in a short space of time.
“Whilst Woodford cannot compete with Redbridge’s resources, our unity and team spirit is unrivalled.”
RJC have made a solid start to the season. The Morrison is a competition they know well. They are one of the teams equipped to win it and boss Sam Rosenthal will be disappointed if they don’t reach the latter stages.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – David Lazarus
JC star man: Danny Hakimi (RJC)
DC Prediction: Woodford 0 RJC 2
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MGBSFL PREMIER DIVISION
DANNY CARO'S PREM DIV TEAM OF THE WEEK
OAKWOOD A vs NORSTAR LONDON RAIDERS A
Ric Blank has described Sunday’s meeting against NLR as “a cup final”.
A 4-1 win over Woodford was the perfect preparation for an Oakwood team thumped 5-2 by NLR in September. Jonny Beilin was the star man for the Oaks last week and he’ll be key to their plans as the hosts look to make a statement of intent against the former leaders.
Joint-boss Ric Blank told JC Sport: “We absolutely have to win this game to put ourselves back in the race.
“We know Raiders inside out and they know us equally well. There won't be any surprises. They know we press and like three at the back, but we know they love to push men forward and get Matt Stock or Ben Joseph on the ball in dangerous areas. They've got a fine squad and one defeat won't phase them.
“We didn't do ourselves justice in our previous encounter. We were reeling then from the long-term loss of Adam Levine and Sam Jacobson. But Eddie Manson has stepped into the breach though is himself a major doubt for Sunday. As ever we're really looking forward to the game. 'Buzzing' as we say up north.
“Winter's coming and we're ready."
Rob Richman offered no excuses after NLR’s winning run came to a halt at Harmen last Sunday. “The best team won,” he told me. Sunday will be all about character for L’Orange as they know that a home win would take Oakwood level on points with them. For that reason and that reason alone, a point may not be the worst result in the world.
JC team news: Dave Cohen is also doubtful for Oakwood and Lee Warner is away. “Having Guy Helman back will make a big difference,” according to Blank.
Venue – Nicholas Breakspear, Ref – Martin Lavender
JC star man: Guy Helman (NLR)
DC Prediction: Oakwood 1 NLR 1
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DIVISION ONE
BRADY MACACBI vs SPEC FC
Josh Dagul has cancelled all interviews this week as Brady finalise their plans for the meeting with SPEC FC.
The recent defeat against Camden hit them hard and with two wins, two draws and two defeats to their name on the league, it’s important they find consistency between now and the winter break. Starting on Sunday.
SPEC are back on the back-foot following last week’s defeat against Blancos and they will have their work cut out against a Brady team they know well.
Dan Harrod was the star man when the teams met at the beginning of the season. His fired a deadly double, with Josh Newman and Reiss Mogilner cementing a 4-0 win.
Ricky Lawrence knows SPEC have a score to settle and it could be back to basics for his men on Sunday.
“We are hoping for a much improved performance following last Sunday's disappointing display,” he told JC Sport.
“Brady beat us rather convincingly last time out so we'll be hoping to put that right too."
Don’t be overly surprised if SPEC try to park the bus.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – Tony McEvoy, KO – 10am
JC star man: Nathan Harrod (Brady)
DC Prediction: Brady 1 SPEC 0
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BRIXTON OLD BOYS vs ATHLETIC BILBAUM
Brixton gave an excellent account of themselves against Camden last week. They came within seconds of earning a prized point snatched away from them by Rob Hershkorn. But the signs look promising.
Boss Paul Shamplina has done well since taking charge. It’s never easy getting so many new signings to gel, but he’s got them all working hard and playing for each other.
Dave Lusman went from hero to zero after inadvertently deflecting in Camden’s winner last week in a game where Michael Paterson was the star man.
Bilbaum were simply blown away by a rampant Raiders team last Sunday. The form of keeper Simon Roth and another goal from joint-player-manager Julius Judah were among the few positives from a 6-1 defeat.
With Shamps demanding continued improvement from his troops and the Baums needing maximum points to stay in the promotion race, this has all the makings of a real classic.
Venue - Clowes, Ref – Robert Caplin
JC star man: Sam Roth (Bilbaum)
DC Prediction: Brixton 2 Bilbaum 3
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NORSTAR LONDON RAIDERS B vs LOS BLANCOS
Both teams registered big wins on Matchday 9, and a high-scoring contest looks on the cards here.
Jake Gilbert is on an incredible run of form in front of goal at the minute and he’ll be licking his lips at the prospect of taking on a Blancos team yet to keep a clean sheet this season.
Indeed Gilbert is one of the hottest properties around in the league right now and if Jacob Gold can find his best form, that would be one frightening prospect for the Blancos backline.
With Camden Park wrapped up in Morrison action this weekend, NLR boss Jonathan Adelman knows that three points would see his team finish the weekend top of the table. But he’s taking nothing for granted on Sunday.
Adelman told JC Sport: “Despite the convincing win against Blancos a few weeks ago, no-one in Orange will be complacent.
“We know Moses poses a real threat up top and former Raider Nick Grosse is a class keeper so no game against them is going to be easy.”
Blancos boss Jon Ison is “really looking forward to this week's game after a convincing win last week over SPEC FC”.
Simon Moses was their star performer and, having told me it was only a matter of time until he started firing, Ison was delighted to see talisman Adam Hersh bag a brace. But he knows tougher tests lie ahead.
Ison told JC Sport: “Our front players worked very well together and I am hoping for more of the same this week.
“We are a far better team than the results have shown so far this season and hopefully we'll start creeping up the league.
“More selection headaches for me this week, with virtually our whole squad available, which is great to see - but hard for me!”
But NLR on 3G is a totally different proposition.
JC team news: NLR striker Nick Woolf is troubled by a bad back and faces a late fitness test, Danny Bloom and Lewis Blitz are away, but other than their long-term injuries, which now includes Matt Sheldon, L’Orange have a full-strength group to choose from.
Venue – Ark Academy, Ref – Neal Cohen, KO – 10am
JC star man: Adam Posner (NLR)
DC Prediction: NLR 3 Blancos 1
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DIVISION TWO
DANNY CARO'S DIV TWO TEAM OF THE WEEK
AC MILL HILL vs L’EQUIPE
Dan Beresford’s Mill Hill can move to within two points of top spot when they host L’Equipe at the Lodge.
Unbeaten in four in the league, the Mill Hill boys are handily placed to kick on, and with two matches against NLR C and one against Catford & Bromley on the horizon, they will be looking to enter the busy Chanukah programme in the promotion places.
We’ve yet to see the best of the Zloof/Kent partnership, so it’s important the midfielders start to chip in with goals on a more regular basis.
L’Equipe have been left with something of a depleted squad as they look to bounce back from the defeat against Oakwood.
Having worked so hard to get into the division, managers Josh Lewis and Dan Cordell know they must start turning good performances into points, or else they may be dragged into the relegation dog-fight. Sunday could be a character-building experience as I can see them needing to defend doggedly and for long periods.
Ahead of kick-off, Josh Lewis told JC Sport: “We know AC Mill Hill well, having played in some feisty games over the last two years, and the squad available are keen to get a win over them.
“We’ve had an inconsistent start to the season for a few different reasons, but we are confident of getting a result this weekend with the strength in depth we have in the squad.”
It’s clear to me the L’Equipe squad are enjoying the challenge of Division Two football and, whatever the outcome, they will be all the better for their experience over the next 90 minutes in a game where winning individual and collective battles are key.
JC team news: L’Equipe have James Mandell, Rob Simons, JJ Marrache and Dave Prager on the injury table, while Nick Stern, Adam Graham and Adam Wilson are away at a wedding. But they welcome back captain Mark Singer and my co-manager Dan Cordell.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – Stuart Ansher, KO – 10am
JC star man: Loz Bloom (Mill Hill)
DC Prediction: Mill Hill 3 L’Equipe 1
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CATFORD & BROMLEY MACCABI vs AC WHETSTONE
Nick Goodmaker rolled back the years with a vintage performance that Cats boss Lester Jacobs hopes to use as a template for Sunday’s tussle with Whetstone.
The former Montana star reminded Catford fans what a strong engine he still has, getting up and down the flank superbly, providing a couple of assists, as well as one of the finest tackles seen in the MGBSFL this season.
Catford fans were buoyed by last week’s important win over Jewdinese and the challenge now is to replicate the level of performance and effort.
Andrew Charles put in a real shift up top, while Dan Green and Jamie Sinai were their goal-scoring heroes.
“We've got 15 players available already this week with a very strong squad to choose from,” Cats captain Adam Luria told JC Sport.
“AC Whetstone are a good footballing team. with some really competitive young players in their ranks. Last time we played it was a close game, as the 2-2 scoreline would suggest and I'm sure it will be a hard fought game again this time.
“It was good to finally get a win last week after losing a few games where we really deserved more, but now that's behind us and we have to show the same mentality going into every game from now until the end of the season.
“If we can put together last week's spirit with the quality we've until now only shown in brief flashes, then we'll be looking to kick on and rescue our season.”
Whetstone are still reflecting on the terrific performance in the cup against Premier Division Neasden. They showed great character to come from 0-3 down, with joint-manager Clive Nathan showing the youngsters how it should be done. With him on the pitch, they didn’t look like conceding.
Anthony Cohen and Nathan took many positives away from the game. 120 of football will have no adverse affect on the youngsters for whom Sunday cannot come soon enough.
Another cracker is on the cards.
JC team news: Catford’s Zak McLeod is hoping to be back after missing last week with a bruised toe, Jeff Gotch returns from holiday in Israel and Josh Krewne and Darren Hill are also both pushing for a place in the squad.
Venue – Norseman FC, Ref – Alex Smith, KO – 10am
JC star man: Dan Brennan (Whetstone)
DC Prediction: Catford 2 Whetstone 2
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OAKWOOD B vs JEWDINESE
Of the teams currently outside of the top three, Oakwood have the quality to push for promotion. Manager Jason Stein demands it and he will settle for nothing less than three points against Jewdinese on Sunday.
Buoyed by the impressive win at L’Equipe last week, Stein is hoping for another eye-catching performance from his men as they look to break into double figures in the points department.
Stein told JC Sport: “Like the Republican Party, the Oakwood B camp is in a happy place this week. That's what two wins in a row will do and it has given the lads a real boost to see us higher up the table and the results reflecting our good performances.
"But those games are gone now and the focus is on Jewdinese. We played them recently, but all that counts for is a guarantee of how tough a game it will be again on Sunday. I have a feeling they'll be bang up for this one after the aggro in our last encounter. Jess Alexander is a good player. He has a touch of Di Matteo in the 96/97 season about him.
"In terms of personnel, we are at a good level this week and the competition for places is strong. Charlie "Champers" Cohen will turn out for us again this week as will forward Joshy Rubes. The likes of Josh Berkley, Richard Angel, Dave Eden and Matt Geey are all in great form and full of confidence and JRK is working hard up top. The goals aren't forthcoming for him at the moment, but that's going to change very soon.
"The team is coming together nicely now. There was always going to be a period of adjustment under new management and with so many new faces coming into the set up, but I feel we are over that and ready to push on - starting with Jewdinese on Sunday.
"Their record means very little to me because at this level the margins are slim. No-one is taking anything for granted. I'm looking forward to the game."
For one reason or another, things just haven’t clicked for ‘Nese so far. But there’s no doubting their ability. It’s only a matter of time, surely.
Defeat at Catford was hard to take. But they cannot feel sorry for themselves. Boss Darren Lawrence believes they deserve a lucky break and he will encourage his players to go for it on Sunday.
Venue – Brunel, Ref – Gary Silver
JC star man: Charlie Cohen
DC Prediction: Oakwood 2 Jewdinese 0
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DIVISION THREE
TEMPLE FORTUNE vs BOCA JEWNIORS
Sunday is truly make or break for Boca gaffer Gabe John.
Having played five games, he’s still without a win. "It’s starting to play on my mind a bit,” John told JC Sport in a candid interview.
“I know these lads are good enough but we're not showing it. This week really is a game we have to win and I cannot stress enough how much we will be up for this game"
“One wildcard John has got is the new inclusion of former FC Team man Adam Rosenfeld.
"I've known Adam for a long, long time and his signing is huge for us. Hopefully he can make us gel Sunday - no pressure!"
Richard Cooper makes a welcome return from Fortune and boss Jonathan Cohen was also delighted to have talisman Dave Sawyer back from injury last week, scoring in the draw at Lions.
“We have a good squad to choose from ahead of the game,” Cohen told jC Sport. “However we have amassed some ankle injuries to a number of players from Sunday due to the 3G pitch at Rowley Lane.
“The team has looked much better in recent weeks and we head into the game knowing a win to either side will be huge.
“We will have to be totally focussed and not let a narrow victory in pre-season cloud our attitude going into the game.”
It promises to be a great one for the neutral.
Venue – Roger Bannister, Ref – Henry Raffe
JC star man: Adam Rosenfeld (Boca)
DC Prediction: Fortune 2 Boca 3
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LONDON ROVERS vs REAL SOSOBAD
There’s a top-quality affair in store in west Hendon as promotion hopefuls London Rovers and Sosobad lock horns for the second time.
Although Rovers start the game with a two-point advantage, there’s no escaping the fact they were played off the park by a rampant Real team in September. James Rubin (2), John Lessem, Barry Green, James Law and Elliott Coulton fired the east Londoners to a famous win that is the headline act on the club’s Chanukah DVD.
But Rovers have responded magnificently since then, hitting the target 14 times in three games since. And last week’s big win over Boca has set them up nicely for the clash of the titans.
Rovers chairman Viv Emanuel told JC Sport: “We were glad to get a result from last week’s game as it meant so much to so many players to win against Boca. Every player put there all in for 90 minutes and we couldn’t have asked for more.
As I said last time, this win was vital so that we can go into this week’s game with confidence. We want to erase the performance from last time we played Sosobad and make sure that we all put in 100 per cent from minute one.
“Winning this game will help us push towards winning Division Three as Sosobad are one of our top rivals for the title. Every game is a must-win game, but this week is vital.
“Well done to Avi [Markiewicz] on his first goals for the club last week - a hat-trick is a good way to start, setting the bar nice and high. Joshua Bharier is back scoring again which is good, adding another to his seven goals this season. Dovi Vogel is still scoring, it must be down to Eli's Pizza - all that extra tomato is giving him a push in the right direction!
“Here’s to another winning week.”
Three wins on the spin is music to the ears of Rovers boss Jeremy Brown who is targeting another three-point haul at the weekend.
He told JC Sport: “Sunday’s game has huge importance for so many reasons. Not only will it make a massive impact on the title race, it is also a game where we as a team have the opportunity to put things that went so horribly wrong the last time we met, right.
“After our 6-0 defeat last time round, I accused my players of not making an effort and not having any backbone. Since then the response has been fantastic, but the feeling of that loss is still so raw and as I said after that game, that kind of result can only be forgiven if we show consistent improvement and results.
“So far we have done that but with respect to the other teams we have played in our division, Sosobad are a level above. I was so disappointed and angry after that game and focused only on how badly my team performed, I actually didn't give Sosobad the credit they deserved.
“They are a decent side and they have got together to try and play football the right way and represent everything the league should be about, which is exactly what we at London Rovers are trying to do as well so I respect that and I respect them.
“My players know that they will need to be at their very best on Sunday if we want to get something out of this game, but at the very least, I expect us to give a proper account of ourselves and make this game a competitive one."
Sosobad have found a winning formula in the league and it will take a good team to beat them right now. They certainly didn’t look out of place when defeated in the cup against higher league opposition, and it’s vital they bring another big performance to the table against a team with a point to prove.
Boss Dan Shafron told JC Sport: “This game will not be anywhere near as easy as it was when we last met. Our 6-0 win was a fake situation. Normally for us to score goals we need a lot of chances. But everything that day went in our direction.
“We were very good and really exploited their weaknesses. They struggled to deal with our pace and intensity all over the pitch. We dropped off for the last 10 minutes which was frustrating when we knew the game was won and my players know this is not acceptable regardless of the score.
“This time out I expect a completely different match. I expect Rovers to perform far better than they did last time and we must be ready their desire to beat us.
“They showed glimpses of quality and Jeremy Brown has his team playing the right brand of football. I know they are a good team. I analysed them against Hendon and Boca. Since losing to us, they have won three out of three against the bottom teams scoring plenty of goals and have overtaken us in second place.
“I think for us, a win would be nice but for them, they will feel a lot of pressure knowing that they can open up a gap before they play big games soon against King Crown and Faithfold.
“There is no pressure on my team, but maybe the opposition will feel it as they are the home team and will try to make sure they don’t leave themselves too exposed. I just need to convince the players that the game at home was one of those matches where everything went in our direction.”
I think Sunday’s game will come down to small details, though it’s hard to call a winner.
Venue – West Hendon, Ref – Robert Benardout, KO – 10am
JC star man: Matthew Geppert (Sosobad)
DC Prediction: Rovers 1 Real 2
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KS REUNITED vs KING CROWN
Jacob Kadoch, my October Manager of the Month for Division Three, will be aiming to finish the weekend in seventh heaven as King Crown look to extend their perfect league record.
Dom Cheniart was their match-winner in the thriller against Hendon last week and the signs are that the KS defence will be in for a busy morning.
Kadoch told me he has “a full team to choose from”. He told JC Sport: “We are getting better and I look forward to seeing us improving every week.
“There is a lot of competition in the squad, which is very healthy and rewarding for the team. Every game is a must-win and this Sunday is no different.”
KS’s best way forward could be to treat this like an away game. In James Ryan, they have an experienced marksman capable of hurting teams on the counter, but it will be down to the home midfielders to ensure he sees enough of the ball.
KS’s first few results give me no indication that they have what it takes to stop a rampant Crown team, who will be looking to play between the lines and get behind them at every opportunity.
Venue – London Playing Fields, Ref – Laurie Benson
JC star man: James Korn (King Crown)
DC Prediction: KS 1 Crown 3
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SHACHARIT DONETSK vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB B
Hendon will be looking to get their season back on track as they host Shacharit on Sunday.
Having been excellent during pre-season, manager Adam Glekin had high hopes for this season, but his team have found it hard going. However, he feels a win on Sunday could be just what they need to kickstart their season.
He told JC Sport: "I don't think we're a million miles away, but we can't keep saying that and then losing games.
“With games against Shacharit and Boca in the next two weeks, I am targeting six points which would put us back in the mix. Having played Shacharit two weeks ago, we know they're a decent side with a few very talented individuals so we'll need to be at our best.”
Glekin will be boosted by the return of his big brother Ben, who is in line to make his first start of the season and add strength and height to his side. Gab Saul is also back in the squad, and club stalwart Chaim Strom is eager to play despite the chance of his wife going into labour during the game. That’s the type of commitment the Reds need right now, even though Mrs S is likely to disagree!
Shacharit have had a mixed start, despite the best efforts of Adam Ellis, who might just be on the radar of Faithfold A following the shock departure of Mike Pearson.
Sam Kanter, Yoram Goodman and Daniel Reece joined Ellis on the scoresheet in the recent win over KS, but they will be hard-pressed to follow that up against a Hendon team who owe their manager.
Venue – Montrose Playing Fields, Ref – Laurence Thorne, KO – 10am
JC star man: Chaim Strom (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Shacharit 2 Hendon 3
