04/08/2007

GRANSDEN RESERVES 1

DUNTON FC 4

Attendance: 17

Having re-formed the club, manager Barry Morris was eager to arrange a number of friendly matches before the competitive games start at the end of August. This was a good opportunity for the players to get familiar with each other and prepare for the season ahead. The incredibly hot weather was always going to be a factor in the result but the lads did extremely well in creating chances for each other from the first whistle to the last.

Rather than play two 45 minutes halves, the referee decided that 4 periods would be a better idea so the players could get as much water on board as possible in the conditions that were reminiscent of USA 1994.

After a couple of half chances for the front pairing of Fediw and Pugh, Dunton took the lead on 32 minutes when McGhee played a ball over the Gransden defence which W. Morris latched on to and slotted past the keeper from 10 yards. This appeared to really settle the lads and they began to knock the ball around with real confidence. In the 40 th minute a throw-in in to the box was knocked back by Fediw to the left foot of W. Morris who controlled the ball and drove it in to the bottom corner giving the keeper no chance.

For the next half an hour Dunton continued to pressurize the tiring Gransden defence and only the cross bar and a number of goal line clearances stopped them extending the lead. However, when Ranson had the freedom of Cambridgeshire in the middle of the pitch, he played a glorious pass through the 2 centre backs and McGhee ran onto it and coolly passed it past the keeper to make it 3-0 with 15 minutes remaining. A mention for Dave Gill, who galloped a full 65 yards to try and tap it over the line and steal the goal, unfortunately he wasn't quite quick enough so McGhee had his name on the scoresheet. With Fediw coming back on for the last 10 he had time to score the goal of the game. A free kick into the box was weakly cleared by the defence and it fell to Fediw who hit a pearler into the top right-hand corner from 20 yards. This drew a round of applause from the packed-out crowd who were probably more surprised than impressed, especially if they witnessed his shooting in the warm up.

So, after an encouraging first outing for the re-formed Dunton, the season is looking bright for all the players who showed all the credentials for a successful campaign.

GOALS

W. Morris 2

T. McGhee 1

J. Fediw 1

07/08/2007

SANDY FC 4

DUNTON FC 0

Attendance : 57

A friendly game with Sandy so soon after forming the club was not something you would have expected. With a large number of Dunton players having played for Sandy last season, you could sense that this game would have a bit of a bite to it and those predictions were proved correct. In comparison with the weekend game against Gransden, this was a big step up in terms of quality and although it finished in a 4-0 defeat, the players can take some positives out of it and this match will certainly stand them in good stead for the league and cup campaign.

In the opening minute Dunton had a good opportunity when McGhee had a snap-shot from 20 yards. Unfortunately the chances were few and far between with the front pair of W. Morris and Fediw having to use most of their energy in closing down the Sandy back four. Sandy 's quick tempo and attacking options meant that Dunton found it difficult to get a good rhythm and found themselves a goal down after 15 minutes, 2-0 down on 25 minutes and the third followed after a spilt shot from the keeper just before half time.

A scoreline of 3-0 was possibly a harsh reflection of the game but the lads continued to battle hard and in the second half came close on a number of occasions with chances to reduce to 3 goal deficit. McGhee went off injured and was replaced by Underwood who did well in his first game for the club in the midfield battle alongside W. Morris who dropped back to midfield for the second period.

Sandy added to their tally when McCartney scored his second of the game with a long distance lob.

Dunton will certainly not play a side as good as this again this coming season and will use this as a benchmark for future games. An upcoming league fixture against Sandy Reserves could well prove the perfect antidote for last night, a chance for some of the ex-Sandy players to gain a little revenge.

GOALS

N/A

15/08/07

DUNTON FC 7

BEDFORD ROSE 0

Attendance : 18

Duntons first game at their home ground was almost in doubt when a torrential downpour an hour before kick off threatened to make this game unplayable. Luckily due to the desert-like weather of last week, this softened the pitch perfectly and made the conditions perfect for the match.

The visitors were Bedford Rose, a Sunday League side who came to Dunton looking for match practice ahead of their league campaign. Manager was Sam Lawes, an ex-Partizan player who has taken over this season.

As soon as the referee blew the first whistle, Dunton flew out of the blocks, chasing down their opponents and producing some wonderful football with the ball at their feet. The front two of Pugh and Fediw were busy as was the midfield four of Gibbs, McGhee, W. Morris and Jarman. With all 6 of these players looking hungry to score and create, it was really a case of when and not if, they would score. Of the defence, 3 debuts were made by Goalkeeper Matt Dring and defenders Dan Lloyd and Steve Monks. They all played excellently on their first outing and the signs are looking good for a solid defensive record for the season ahead.

Four goals were scored in the first half from approximately 12 attempts. The first was scored by McGhee when Pugh played a neat through ball that gave the tall midfielder time to drill it in from 15 yards out. The second arrived 5 minutes later when a shot from W. Morris was parried by the Rose keeper and it fell to Fediw who tapped in easily. McGhee added a third with a similar effort to the first after W. Morris crossed in from the left. The busy work from Pugh was paid off when he latched onto W. Morris's cross to score with a good header for number four.

Manager Baz Morris didn't really need to say much at the interval, just to carry on from the first half. Although they weren't quite as effective as in the first half, they still managed a further 3 goals. One from Jarman who volleyed in Underwoods cross. The other two were courtesy of Pugh, who firstly pounced on a keepers error for an easy tap-in then he played a fantastic 1-2 with Jarman in the box to finish the game on a well deserved hat-trick. The match ball stayed with Pugh until Baz Morris realised what was going on and took it from him saying a lack of funds meant he couldn't keep it this time.

GOALS

D. Pugh 3

T. McGhee 2

J. Fediw 1

T. Jarman 1

28/08/07

SANDY RESERVES 0

DUNTON FC 1

Attendance : 63

Dunton made the short trip to Bedford Road looking to get the season off to a good start. With the previous Saturday's game being called off, this meant that this local derby would be the seasons opener for both clubs. With a number of players representing Sandy reserves last season, you could feel this was going to be a cracking match for the sixty plus crowd. With some unsavoury comments coming from Sandy manager, Spider Wheatley, the Dunton boys didn't and shouldn't have needed a team talk to be up for this one.

The game kicked off at a frantic pace with both sides lacking in composure on the ball, no player lacked the desire to win and although it was a scrappy game, it was certainly entertaining viewing. The constant threat of the Sandy front two meant that the Dunton defence had to be on top of their game to nullify them. The obvious way for Dunton to get opportunities was clearly to get down the flanks and put crosses in the test the Sandy keeper. They did manage this a handful of times and only some last ditch defending from Seldon stopped Pugh from heading home from the back post.

A half time substitution saw Socca brought on to replace Pugh. Pugh had been suffering with illness and the half time vomiting was a sign that changes were needed.

The boys spent most of their time in the Sandy half pressing for a goal but Sandy resistance held out and Dunton were reduced to a handful of corners and some pot-shots from distance. A Sandy free kick out wide presented Ian Jakes with the chance to steal the points for the home side but luckily he hit it first time on the volley and although he struck it well, it flew wide of the upright.

With a draw now looking a certainty, a long ball down the line saw Sandy's Kev Fage attempt to pass the ball back to the keeper but with Wheatley also going for the ball it went past him and the sprightly Wayne Morris read it perfectly to tap the ball into the empty net to gratefully take three points back to Dunton. You could say this was daylight robbery but if you invite the burglar in your house, what do you expect?

GOALS

W. Morris 1

01/09/07

DUNTON 5

REDDINGS WOOD 2

Attendance : 19

With the weather perfect and the pitch looking great, you couldn't have pictured a better way for Dunton to start their first competitive game back at Boot Lane . Their opponents for the day were Reddings Wood who had recorded and impressive 5-0 victory in mid-week and they arrived in good confidence. This confidence was soon to be blasted away by a rampant home side. Dunton started superbly with a tempo higher than Joe Pasquale on helium! Reddings Wood simply couldn't live with the movement and pace of the attack.

Some stern pre-match words from manager Baz Morris clearly had the desired effect and it was only a surprise that it took 20 minutes for the first goal to go in. This came from the evergreen Wayne Morris who controlled Ranson's cross on the chest and coolly lobbed the keeper for 1-0. The lead was doubled 5 minutes later when W. Morris played in McGhee down the left, he squared the ball which was spilt by the keeper to the grateful feet of W. Morris to double his and Duntons tally.

Half time was welcomed by the away team and their travelling supporters but the home side wanted to get going again and carry on the good football. A ball over the top on 54 minutes saw Pugh get between the two centre backs and square it to Fediw who controlled and rifled it into the top corner to effectively end the tie. This was not the case though, as a minute of madness saw Reddings Wood score two goals and set panic amongst the home support. The boys didn't let it affect them too much and continued to press forward looking for a fourth. A cross into the box was headed back to the edge by Pugh and substitute Dave Gibbs hit an absolute missile into the top corner. The keeper had no chance, by the time it had nestled he was still thinking about diving for it! An early contender for goal of the season, indeed.

With the fourth goal putting to bed any hopes of a come back Dunton relaxed and added a fifth when the dynamic McGhee robbed the midfielder and played in Fediw who delightfully rounded a floundering keeper to tap in the net and add his own second of the game.

After two games the division 1 new boys are on maximum points. Baz commented afterwards: “After Wednesdays scrappy victory this game left me with a feeling of pure euphoria”. While one travelling supporter added “Some of the football they played, I cant even do on my Playstation”

GOALS

W. Morris 2

J. Fediw 2

D. Gibbs 1

05/09/07

ICKWELL RESERVES 2

DUNTON FC 6

Attendance : 31

This midweek fixture was for a place in the semi finals of the SA Butcher Cup against local rivals Sandy Reserves. A fantastic performance from the boys saw them dispatch of their rival with a four goal blitz in the second half. There were a handful of absentees for the game, W. Morris (rested), G. Underwood (holiday), D. Lloyd (injured), McGhee and B. Morris (ineligible). The loss of these players had no bearing on great 90 minutes.

The first half started well for the away side as they stroked the ball round with confidence. The midfield duo of Socca and Ranson were dominating and creating many opportunities for the front two and wingers. The first goal was thanks to Socca who hit a delightful free kick over the wall and dipped under the cross bar giving the keeper little chance. With the boys settled they were caught out when a teasing free kick into the box was met well by the Ickwell defender to level the score.

The second half saw the Dunton players fitness begin to be a factor as tiredness set in amongst the home players. When Jarman swung in a corner it was weakly palmed away by the keeper and Pugh was alert to bury it from 6 yards. 10 minutes later Fediw found himself one on one from Pugh's flick on and he cheekily put it through the keepers legs to make it 3-1. This soon became 4-1 when Jarman played Pugh down the right and he squared it back for Jarman who volleyed well from 10 yards out. A fifth was inevitable as Ransons through ball was dummied by Fediw for Gibbs who ran with the ball for 30 yards, went round the keeper and passed it into goal. Fediw, who impressed throughout with his forward play, got his name on the scoresheet again after the industrious Ranson played him in and he hit it early from the edge of the box into the corner giving the keeper no hope of saving it.

A mention for Ranson who has been in centre midfield for a number of games and has proved to be an excellent find. His all round display drew applause from the delirious away fans who sang his name throughout. Also, a mention for Dave Gibbs who hobbled round until the ball was within 5 yards of him, he then appeared to forget he has a chocolate ankle.

GOALS

J. Fediw 2

M. Socca 1

D. Pugh 1

D. Gibbs 1

T. Jarman 1

08/09/07

ROYAL OAK KEMPSTON 2

DUNTON FC 9

Attendance : 16

With a 100% record still in tact, Dunton made the trip to Kempston with confidence having B. Morris, W. Morris, McGhee and Lloyd all available for a return to the squad. The added incentive for the match was the sight of a Biggleswade Chronicle reporter in the crowd looking eager to see what all the fuss was about. Credit to the Dunton lads, they didn't disappoint and left Mr Francis with an epic report plus a scramble to the local shop for a pack of biro's.

The first attack went to the home side when they forced an early corner but this to act as a wake up alarm for the sleepy away side who woke up and blitzed their opponents. A stunning 9 minute hattrick from Tim “Agbonlahor” Jarman sorted out the 3 points as he pounced with the stealth of a hitman to score three super goals assisted by McGhee, W. Morris and Pugh respectively. They constantly created chances and McGhee added the fourth with, believe it or not, his right foot from 10 yards out.

A four-nil half time score was just what they deserved and they did not let up at all in the second half, in fact they stepped it up a notch to add a further five goals. The fifth was thanks to Pugh as he gratefully tapped in following some good footwork from Jarman. Royal Oak then hit back with what appeared to be a mere consolation goal. Manager B. Morris subbed himself off for the machine that goes by the name of Churms. He has taken a year off from fighting wild bears to play football and it was his sheer determination that allowed him to bulldoze through a petrified home defence, then commit a mild assault on the keeper to find an empty net to stroke in to make it 6-1. McGhee added a 7 th after rounding the keeper thanks to a good ball through from Ranson. Jarman then popped up to score his fifth and the goal of the game when chipping the keeper from a full 30 yards. Gibbs assisted that and also was the provider for the final goal when he crossed in for W. Morris to volley home and silence the boo-boys on the sideline. The home side did manage to score again between goal number 8 and 9.

Another good performance and a glutton of goals sent the travelling 6 away fans home with smiles on their faces and excited anticipation for next Saturdays home game with Elstow. Manager B. Morris commented “Im pleased with the start we've made, and I strongly believe that if we win our remaining 27 games, we could well be champions”!

GOALS

T. Jarman 4

T. McGhee 2

D. Pugh 1

W. Morris 1

S. Churms 1

15/09/2007

DUNTON FC 4

ELSTOW 1

Attendance 22

Dunton welcomed their rivals Elstow knowing a win was vital to keep on the tails of the early pace setters, Bed SA. Elstow have started the season inconsistently but did have 2 debutants in their ranks and were hoping to give the home side a stern test of their ability. Dunton's early season form has bred confidence in every player and they have gelled brilliantly for a group of lads who barley knew each other a few months ago.

Dunton started the game at a typically high tempo and began to ask questions of the Elstow back line from the off. McGhee and Ranson were bossing the midfield while the pace of Jarman gave the Elstow left back the look of a man on death row, that boy really could catch pigeons! It was the jet heeled winger who opened the days scoring on 15 minutes when he pounced on a poor clearance to coolly pass it past the advancing keeper. “Kev” then became the provider for the second when a neat one-two with Pugh saw the “self-confident” striker head into the corner with just 25 minutes on the clock.

On a hot day like this, wasting energy is not something the club doctor, Gary Lewis, would advise so with this in mind the lads got the ball down and passed with real efficiency meaning their opponents were left to just run after the ball but not actually touch it very often. The inevitable third was chalked up on 65 minutes and was thanks to a superb, dipping free kick form the ever green W. Morris. This was to be his last action for the afternoon as he was replaced by Fediw with 20 minutes remaining.

The home sides hungry supporters were chanting for more goals and Dunton obliged on 75 minutes when McGhee's quick free kick to Jarman gave the youngster enough time pick his spot and rifle it home thanks to a deflection off the Elstow centre back.

A 4-0 score line was definitely a fair result but a corner floated over in the dying minutes went beyond the goalkeeper's reach and into the net untouched making a final score of 4-1. Dunton's next league game is away to Caldecote Reserves then its time for the first title clash with top dogs, Bed SA. With both sides scoring for fun at present this promises to be an epic encounter and can be watched live by subscribing to “Dunton TV” at cost of 8 pence per month.

GOALS

T. Jarman 2

D. Pugh 1

W. Morris 1

22/09/2007

CALDECOTE RESERVES 1

DUNTON FC 4

Attendance : 51

“We have to take each game as it comes and not get carried away” these were the words manager Barry Morris drummed into his players prior to the game against local rivals Caldecote. The home sides form so far has been indifferent and with Dunton winning 4 out of 4, the feeling amongst the supporters was that the boys in green would be leaving with three points. On a perfect playing surface, Dunton were able to pass the ball on the floor and produced some nice football in patches. The first goal of the day came when Jarman fired in a free kick from the right which McGhee flicked on and Gill was unmarked at the back post to volley in from 6 yards out. The goal appeared to deflate the home side and Dunton pushed on for a second. Wing wizard Dave Gibbs then produced a moment of magic when he skipped past three players to then place a defence-splitting pass to the right foot of Pugh who struck it early giving the keeper no hope. The unfortunate Dring was then stretchered off with was appeared to be a serious hernia injury. He was replaced by Campbell who immediately pulled off an excellent point blank save denying the home from side halving the deficit. A scoreline of 2-0 looked certain until the referee inexplicably gave the home side a penalty when B. Morris was adjudged to have pushed the Caldecote striker while contesting a corner. The penalty was well finished and was to be the last action of the opening 45 minutes.

The injustice of that penalty appeared to anger the Dunton players into doubling their efforts in the second half and they deservedly scored another 2 goals. McGhee made the score 3-1 with a fantastic half-volley from the corner of the 18 yard box. This drew applause from both sets of fans and rightly so. Probably the most amazing part of the game was the fact that W. Morris scored with his head. After Jarman had beaten his marker and shot, the keeper could only parry it up into the and there was W. Morris to nod it in from on the line.

A 4-1 win was well deserved but could well have been more had the cross bar and post not saved Caldecote on four occasions. Jarman doing so twice from free kick, McGhee from 30 yards out and Pugh who attempted an audacious header from 18 yards.

GOALS

D. Gill 1

D. Pugh 1

T. McGhee 1

W. Morris 1

29/09/2007

MARABESE CERAMICS 2

DUNTON FC 3

Attendance : 26

A break from the league this week, Dunton travelled to Russell Park in Bedford to take on Division 3 high-flyers, Marabese Cremaics, in the 1 st round of the County Cup . The similarities were there between the two teams, both second in their respective leagues and boasting a high goal scoring record. Over the 90 minutes the supporters would see 5 goals, thankfully three of them for Dunton who were pushed right to the end by the confident home side.

Dunton were a goal up within 3 minutes when McGhee played a ball over the home defence which W. Morris galloped onto and executed a lob over the stranded keeper and into the net. You could understand if Marabese' confidence took a knock from this but they continued to play good football and created a few half chances at Campbell 's goal. It was actually a half chance that produced the equaliser when the McGhee and Lloyd were caught in the middle, the ball was played up field and before you knew it the home striker had hit a first time rocket leaving the away side stunned. W. Morris was played through soon after and rounded the keeper but ran out of pitch and was unable to convert to restore the advantage. Marabese nearly scored again just before the break but some lapse finishing meant the scoreline at half time was 1-1.

Manager B. Morris used the interval to hammer the lads and point out that they had no divine right to win the contest. This had the desired effect as Dunton started the second half well on the forward foot. They were camped in the Marabese half for so long, they were considering pitching a few tents! But football is a funny old game and this was evident when a clearance by the home side found the busy striker who again showed his good instincts to put his side in the lead and on their way to the next round. It was a shock for Dunton who were enjoying all the pressure and when Jarman was brought down in the area it appeared the score would be level again. B. Morris stepped up and rifled his shot against the crossbar, it bounced down and away to safety. Marabese were now sensing this could be their day as they were enjoying the luck you need in knockout competitions. However, wing wizard D. Gibbs produced the moment of the game when he controlled and looked to cross, instead he hit an incredible half volley in at the keepers near post to level the contest and start off the crazy “DJ Sparky” goal celebration. A definite rival to the “Crouch Robot”. The relief of the equalizer turned to sheer joy when McGhee's through ball was collected by W. Morris and he rounded the keeper and scored what proved to be the winning goal of a thoroughly enjoyable cup tie.

GOALS

W. Morris 2

D. Gibbs 1

06/10/2007

BEDFORD S.A 1

DUNTON FC 1

Attendance : 20

Title decider? This was the question that Sky Sports Jeff Stelling put to his panel on Soccer Saturday as Dunton made their way to Cople playing fields to take on the team who are 3 points ahead in the league, Bedford SA. While both sets of players prepared for this epic, Charlie Nicholas, Matt Le Tissier and co debated for a good 20 minutes as to whether this match would give a realistic view of who could win this years league title. The verdict was that it is far too early in the league to be a decider but would have a psychological effect if one team was victorious.

The opening exchanges were cagey as both sides sussed each other out without wanting to concede an early goal. Apart from some long range efforts from Beds SA striker M Kelly, Campbell was rarely troubled as Dunton looked the more capable of scoring when going forward. They had a number of good chances when the early ball, which they use so effectively, got the home defence turning and gave Pugh and Morris and the pacey Jarman opportunities to test the goalkeeper. Dunton so nearly opened the scoring after 25 minutes when Jarman hit a missile of a shot from 35 yards which whistled over the startled keeper and cannoned off the crossbar to safety. This certainly lifted the men in green and their efforts were rewarded when McGhee swung in a teasing free kick, Pugh jumped above everyone and got the vital flick as the ball landed in the top corner. The goal sparked huge celebration amongst the travelling hardcore supporters, D-Elite. The chants of “D.F.C” could be heard for miles.

The half time break probably came at the wrong time as Dunton were buzzing and looking to add to the tally. As the second half wore on Dunton began to go further back in a bid to defend their fragile lead and take all the points. However, they were always capable of creating on the break and seemed to do this every time they broke up another Beds SA attack. Credit to the away defence who were superbly marshalled by the vocal B. Morris and considering he is still recovering from having a rib removed, he was outstanding. Beds SA were by no means ready to surrender their spot at the league summit and continually pressed for an equaliser, having countless corners and long throw-ins. Their efforts finally paid dividends in what was the final kick off a frantic ninety minutes. The long throw was flicked on and as the substitute hit a volley, Campbell saw it late but still managed to parry it, he saved again when the rebound came back in but couldn't keep out the third attempt which nestled into the net and at the same time, broke the Dunton hearts.

Over the ninety you could say that a draw was the fair result, but when the equalizer was the last kick off the game, it really did feel like taking a kick somewhere else a lot more fragile!

Manager B. Morris sobbed as he said “this was a fantastic game to be involved in, I'm gutted we conceded so late in the game but have to give credit to the home side, they are not unbeaten for nothing.”

GOALS

D. Pugh 1

13/10/2007

DUNTON FC 1

HENLOW 3

Attendance : 26

Due to the England international kicking off at 3:00pm , Duntons league game against Henlow was brought forward so the many fans could enjoy both matches. Henlow have dropped a division from the Premier and this was due to ground regulations, not because they finished in last seasons bottom two. They arrived at Boot Lane with a number of experienced players in their ranks, notably a couple who had played at a higher level when playing at their peak.

The game kicked off and immediately it became apparent that this would not be a friendly 90 minutes. With a number of late and clumsy challenges happening in the opening 10 minutes, you could see that this was going to be a scrappy affair.

Henlow took a deserved lead on 20 minutes as the home defence were caught knapping as the Henlow striker turned Gill and fired in off the post. This was the first time this season the home side had gone behind and they were given a double blow when captain, Baz Morris, was stretchered off minutes after the goal with what appeared to be broken ribs. The ball spent most of the 1 st half up in the air than it did on the ground and this clearly suited Henlow's game plan with their obvious aerial advantage. A tactical change was needed and with the left back, Gaylor replacing Morris, it was Dave “Quagmire” Gill who moved inside to central defence to play alongside Lloyd. Quagmire being Gilly's adopted name by the 6 ball-boys who attend every home game.

With the margin being so slight, the next goal was vital and when Dunton were given a free kick on the edge of the 18 yard box, you sensed a goal was on the way. So much so that Gill made an audacious £100 bet with the ball boys that he would score and he happily obliged with a bullet header from the cross by Jarman. Unfortunately for the home side, their equaliser caused them to switch off and they found themselves behind again when the young pest up front for Henlow latched on to a nothing ball over the top to give his side the 2-1 lead. By this time the home side seemed to prefer to argue amongst each other in a way that was reminiscent to a day time chat show. Where is Jeremy Kyle when you need him to diffuse the situation?

Henlow effectively put the game to bed when the ever dangerous Pete Saunders showed his ability when he coolly lobbed Campbell after some misunderstanding among the home defence. Second half substitute Matt Wall was deservedly awarded the Star Man award for his energetic and determined showing, which included a delightful “nuts” on a bewildered Henlow winger.

As Baz Morris was unable to speak afterwards, it was stand in skipper W. Morris who said “you just cant give their players the time we did out there. We were punished for showing too much respect and will learn from this, I will teach them!!”

GOALS

D. Gill 1

20/10/2007

DUNTON FC 4

FLITWICK TOWN 1

Attendance : 18

After the disappointment of last Saturday, some players were wondering whether changes would be made.

Flitwick probably started the better side and on a number of occasions they got in behind the home defence only for the excellent duo of Lloyd and Churms to avert any danger. With McGhee playing behind the striker in the absence of W. Morris (sniffles), he was instructed to get on the ball as much as possible to create openings for the front 3 of Didier Puggba, Arjen Gibben and Tim Wright-Phillips.

The first goal was courtesy of Garth Underwood after he executed an excellent header back across the keepers dive giving him no chance of saving it. The assist was for Jarman after a superb dribble and cross gave the Flitwick defender an idea of what he was to be up against for the afternoon.

A comfortable opening half meant that B. Morris wouldn't be needing to give the hairdryer treatment like the week before and the Greens went out for the second period looking confident. They were to double their lead when Jarman again robbed his marker and sent in a low drive that the away defender could only direct into his own net. A great finish, none the less. Flitwick then pulled one back and sent a timely reminder that a two goal lead is a very small margin at this level and shouldn't be taken for granted. The boys reacted brilliantly to restore their advantage 5 minutes later when Pugh held the ball up and then played in Jarman who rifled his shot past the despairing dive of the Flitwick keeper.

Man of the match Jarman then turned provider for the third time when his pass inside to McGhee was driven in from 20 yards. It was what you'd call a text book “daisy cutter”.

Bar Manager Dave Gill said afterwards “I'm so glad we won today, I lost a lot of takings after the defeat last week and I'm skint! I'm still waiting for my £100 from the ballboys”

GOALS

T. Jarman 1

T. McGhee 1

G. Underwood 1

Own Goal 1

27/10/2007

KEMPSTON TOWN 1

DUNTON FC 4

Attendance : 11

After last weeks confidence boosting 4-1 victory over Flitwick, the Green Army travelled over to Kempston looking to build some momentum to get their league title challenge back on track. Their opponents were lying fifth in the table before kick off with a form guide that showed they don't like to draw games. There were no casualties from the previous week, although Dunton are still without captain Baz Morris (broken ribs) and Jon Fediw who is currently nursing a club foot. There was a welcome return for Wayne Morris whose experience as a striker would prove vital in the away sides second half turnaround.

The compact midfield meant that the midfield trio of Underwood, Ranson and McGhee struggled to get time on the ball and thus reduced the times they could get the wing wizards that are Jarman and Arjen Gibben, into real attacking situations. Dunton were up for the battle though, and it was against the run of play when the Kempston striker ran onto a through and hit a brilliant first time effort into the top right hand corner giving Dring absolutely no chance. The goal appeared to galvanise the away team and they upped their efforts creating a number of half chances but not quite the golden chance they had been grafting for.

Manager Baz Morris told his players at half time they were playing well and to keep at it, surely a goal would come. Eight minutes into the second half, Ranson had to come off injured and he was replaced by Wayne Morris who went up front to form a pairing with Pugh. It was undoubtedly his introduction that put extra pressure on a tiring Kempston back four and it was now a matter of when and not if the equaliser would come. A cross into the box by McGhee was flicked on by Underwood into the path of Pugh who swivelled and buried for the overdue leveller. With the Kempston heads beginning to drop, the second quickly followed as Morris controlled on the half way line and played in Pugh who coolly lobbed the out rushing keeper to spark wild celebrations for the away fans, Garths bird and their pet dog. This was clearly the killer for the spirited home side, and when Gibbs played a dangerous cross from wide left, McGhee lost his marker to send a free header into the corner to make the game safe.

Dunton showed their quickness on the break when they defended a corner and sent Jarman on his was as he breezed past two players and was one on one with the keeper, he checked back and played it to W. Morris who scored the goal to cap an influential 40 minutes on the field.

After the game Garths bird said “I was really worried we wouldn't get win the match but they never give up and im so glad I support a team who are really really good at kicking the ball and that”.

GOALS

D. Pugh 2

W. Morris 1

T. McGhee 1

03/11/2007

DUNTON FC 6

MARSTON SOCIAL 3

Attendance : 31

A tactical re-think was required today as Dunton were left with just one available striker in W. Morris. D. Pugh was away on business and Fediw is still waiting for a foot replacement. It was decided that a 4-4-2 would still be the best option and McGhee was pushed forward into a “Van Persie type” striking role. Other changes included a first league start for Matt “megs” Wall at right back. Martson Social came to Dunton after an unimpressive start to their campaign but with a number of recent additions to their side, they will soon climb the table.

It was Tom McVan Persie who opened the days scoring when he was played through by Arjen Gibben to have acres of space to pick his spot and nutmeg the keeper for 1-0. The lead was doubled 5 minutes later when Ranson was fouled 25 yards out, Jarman showed his expertise at free kicks when he fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner. With the home side relaxing they were caught out twice in quick succession by the lively Marston forward who made two half chances for himself and scored excellently on both occasions to level the scores and send the away section into raptures.

Manager Baz Morris was absolutely furious, his pre match team talk had warned against complacency and the home side were showing this clearly. However, 5 minutes after the equalizer Underwood played a pass to McGhee on the half way line and he burst through to round the keeper and score with his trusted right foot. The “Right-foot scoring” bet with Gibben was now all square at 2-2. On the stroke of half time Dunton increased their two goal margin as Gibben pounced on a keeping error to tap in to the empty net.

In a second period that was spent mainly in the Martson half, Dunton managed just two more goals and conceded one. The fifth was converted by W. Morris, he appeared to be going nowhere with three players around him but wriggled free to then hit a 20 yard net-buster that the goalkeeper could only stand and admire! Marston's final goal of the game reduced the arrears to 2 with ten minutes left but the introduction of Carl Merser saw him score with his first touch, a glancing header from a Gibben cross in the dying minutes to make the final score and entertaining 6-3.

After the final whistle, sweeper Dan Lloyd said “I am pleased to be leaving the country on a winning note. I am off to the promised land on Wednesday for a trial with the L.A Galaxy. Ill miss you all so much”

GOALS

T. McGhee 2

W. Morris 1

C. Merser 1

T. Jarman 1

D. Gibbs 1

10/11/2007

THE 61 FC ‘A' 0

DUNTON FC 1

Attendance : 5

A break from the intense league campaign gave the Green Machine a date with 61 FC ‘A' in the county cup. The long journey to Luton included several u-turns thanks to the inept driving of chief navigator Tom McGhee. They still arrived in more than enough time to prepare and acclimatise to the cold and windy conditions that they are simply not used to in deep mid-Bedfordshire! With their opponent currently in mid table, the away side were the favourites before kick off but as you always get with cup competitions, there is always a shock lurking around every corner. Although Dunton left Luton with the victory they were made to work very hard and didn't score until the 118 th minute of a long-winded affair.

There were a few absentees for today's game, Baz Morris (ribs), Adi Dunn (toe nail), Dan Lloyd (on holiday in the USA ), Tim Jarman (packing for his holiday in the USA ). There was also a debut in waiting for Dave Baker who was on the bench for the first time in Dunton colours.

From the first whistle it appeared that Dunton were the superior outfit technically but in such windy conditions the game was unable to flow and produce any really telling football. Jarmans replacement on the right wing was Ranson who was always industrious and had a couple of good chances in the first 15 minutes that failed to really test the home keeper. Dunton used their wingers well and persistently got the ball to Ranson and Gibben who were putting in cross after cross to try and break the home sides resistance. The stand out chance in the opening period was when Wayne Morris was given space 25 yards out, he struck a howitzer of an effort that beat the keeper but not the cross bar.

Baz Morris was pleased with the first half and asked for more of the same. They did just that. For the second half they spent 80% of the time in 61's half but while they enjoyed so much of the possession they just couldn't find the killer pass to get in on goal. When they did manage to have some long range efforts, the home keeper was assured in keeping the scores level.

With 90 minutes not being enough time to settle matters, extra time kicked off with the home side almost scoring but for an excellent challenge by the veteran, Dave “Quagmire” Gill. Wayne Morris was played in by McGhee but his powerful effort from 10 yards was parried away by the 61 keeper whose reflexes would provide a huge test should it go to penalties. In the final period and darkness approaching, Dunton were given a corner on the right. Full back D.Gaylor played a short one to McGhee who whipped in a teasing cross that evaded everybody including the flummoxed keeper to land in the far corner and book Dunton a 3 rd round date with Ickwell & Old Warden Reserves.

After the match, Baz Morris commented “If this had been a boxing match, we would have won on points. You could say we got them with a lucky knock out punch at the death. Thankyou Tommy, it was a great cross”

GOALS

T. McGhee 1

17/11/2007

STEVINGTON 1

DUNTON FC 4

Attendance : 16

The green machine made the long trip to Stevington knowing that a win this week was absolutely vital with a view the next weeks huge game at home to Beds S.A.

On a small pitch, the home side played a back line that was so high, they were within touching distance of Dring! With acres of space in behind them, the Dunton continually tried to play the ball into the space but with a crazy goalkeeper and a brilliant “sweeper-like” performance from the home linesman, the score remained 0-0 for the first period. In a slight adjustment to the formation, left winger Arjen Gibben became “Gibbaldinho” as he was moved into the floating role behind the front two. Due to the defensive formation adopted by the home side, Duntons formation changed numerous times over the 90 minutes which meant that S. Monks managed more positions in an hour and a half than Jenna Jameson does in one of her “art films”. Dunton almost went in at half time a goal down had it not been for a stunning reflex save at the near post from the dependable M. Dring.

Due to the intense fitness regime manager Baz Morris has his players under, they continued to hassle their opponents and not give them a moments peace when they had possession. It was to be a great day for the mecurial Jon Fediw as he celebrated his first league start for three months with a predatory strike to give his side the lead. When a deflected shot spun in the air, Fediw took it down brilliantly and rifled a half-volley into the far corner from 10 yards out. This sparked huge celebration for the green boys as their efforts had finally paid off. At 1-0 the game was on a knife edge and with the lively D. King always capable of finding a goal from nothing, a second goal was badly needed. This arrived with half an hour to go when the keepers weak clearance fell to McGhee from 35 yards out, he controlled and hit a screamer over the keeper and into the top corner. This deflated the home side and with tiredness kicking in, Dunton began to dominate all over the park and after a superb cross from the Playboy Dan Gaylor, Pugh was highest to leap and flick the header past a despairing keeper to make it 3 goals, and surely 3 points. With a clean sheet now the main objective, Stevington managed to score straight from the kick off to reduce the arrears. 3-1 became 4-1 in the dying minutes when the man of the match Jon Ranson played a defence splitting ball down the left to Pugh, he ran on and unselfishly squared the ball for Carl Merser to score his second goal in as many games and show that with such quality on the bench, this squad could well be in the hunt for a bit of silverware come May 2008.

GOALS

J. Fediw 1

T. McGhee 1

D. Pugh 1

C. Merser 1

24/11/2007

DUNTON FC 0

BEDS SA 4

Attendance : 29

Beds SA travelled to Dunton knowing a draw would keep them an advantage over their nearest rivals in what is now appearing to be a 4 horse race with Westoning and Henlow not giving up the chase by any means. Dunton were to be without Dave Gill who after suffering a leg injury during the Stevington game, he slipped over when in the shower at home after refusing to wait for his day nurse to arrive for his monthly bed bath. That defensive gap was filled by the returning Dan Lloyd who turned down a lucrative deal with the L.A Galaxy saying he didn't want to be involved in the media circus and take the limelight away from Mr Beckham.

The game started at a frantic pace with both sides ripping into the tackles in an attempt to gain the psychological advantage. The opening 20 minutes was the best period for the Green Machine as they dominated the midfield and although they failed to get W. Morris involved enough, they almost snatched the early lead when a pull back from Pugh was met by Morris and his first time effort was saved at the near post. Beds SA main threat was clearly going to be aerial with a number of players towering over six foot, they resembled a basketball team when stood together waiting for a corner or free kick. As the crowd poured towards the tea stand expecting a half time stalemate, Beds SA took the lead when midfielder M. Taylor hit a curling shot from 25 yards that swerved away from Drings reach and in off the post to take his side in at the break a goal to the good.

The home side were clearly down beat at half time and it took a reminder from manager B. Morris that it was only a wonder goal that separated the two teams. A change in formation saw Lloyd replaced by new signing Lee Threadgold who went out to the right wing. His ability was clear and he will certainly prove worthy of his hefty, record breaking £22.65 price tag!

As mentioned earlier, Beds SA's main threat was aerially and they proved this with two goals from wide free kicks. Firstly, the lofty striker beat his marker to head home in the left corner. Then the killer third was struck when the long centre-half volleyed in after free kick from the right. With the goals deficit looking unlikely to be made up with only 10 minutes remaining, the Green Boys pushed forward in search of a consolation strike. They were to be caught out on the break with a demoralizing fourth after a mix up between Dring and Churms let in the striker to pass it into an empty net and round off a great day for the visitors while adding insult to injury for the home side and their die hard supporter, the D- Elite.

Understandably, no player wanted to face the post match interview afterwards but we did manage a quick chat with new boy Lee Threadgold who said “I is a bit gutted, er, but I aint that bovvered yet cos I is playing for a wicked team who is quality, like, er, well good an all that. Er, I hope we is gonna win next week or I is gonna smoke Monksy for getting me over ere! Peace, SG19 for life!” Our apologies for the difficulty in translating what Lee said, this was the best we could do.

15/12/2007

WESTONING RES 2

DUNTON FC 6

Attendance : 16

With no fixture last week due to the poor weather, Dunton were given a week off to reflect on two disappointing results. The 4-0 defeat to Bed SA left a sour taste but to be knocked out of a cup and not really look like winning the game was jut too much to bear for manager Baz Morris who gave his team a stern team talk prior to kick off that also included a ban on any “Beaning” until the final whistle had blown. The were a number of changes made by the boss as Churms moved to right back with B. Morris returning to his centre back role. Dave Gibbs was also selected having been on the bench for the previous two matches and we saw a new strike pairing in W. Morris and young Lee Threadgold. Perhaps the most welcome return was that of the jet-setting winger T. Jarman, who returned from the U.S.A after a month long pilgrimage.

From the first minute there was a clear determination from every player in a green shirt to win this game. It was a joy to watch as their vocal and encouraging start gave them the confidence to pass in a way that had been lacking for a few weeks. The return of Jarman had a huge effect on Duntons attacking options as Ranson and McGhee attempted to get him on the ball at every opportunity. Dunton were dominating all over the park and took a deserved lead when W. Morris was played one on one, he beat the keeper but watched as his shot came back of the post to the feet of Jarman who tapped in from six yards. Although the football was by now excellent, it needed another slice of fortune for the second when McGhee's cross was spilled by the home keeper only for Jarman to again be on hand to grab his second of the day. Westoning were clearly rattled by now but managed to redeem themselves when they scored a fortuitous goal to halve the deficit in the 40 th minute.

Within five minutes of the re-start, any hopes of a home equalizer were banished when Jarman swung in a corner and there was Lee “ West Side ” Threadgold to header home unchallenged. Midfield maestro T. McGhee got his name on the scoresheet when he buried from close range thanks to another Jarman cross with half an hour still on the clock. Steve Monks would have been shaking had he seen the performance Churms put in at right back as he not only kept the Westoning winger in his pocket, he also carried him along for the ride every time he went on a mazy run, which was quite often. The ridiculously aggressive Churms was creator of the fifth goal when he barged his way in on goal only to hit the post. W. Morris was there to hit the rebound into the roof of the net. At 5-1 the home side were demoralised and it didn't help when McGhee volleyed in from a corner to collect his third brace of the season. McGhee was unlucky not to bag a hat-trick when he finished coolly from Pugh's pass only for the linesman to flag for another player being offside. Westoning hit back in the dying minutes with a well excecuted free kick but it was too little too late. A great result that will hopefully revive the Green Machines title aspirations.

GOALS

T. Jarman 2

T. McGhee 2

W. Morris 1

L. Threadgold 1

22/12/2007

CAMPTON RESRVES 0

DUNTON FC 5

Attendance : 23

After a brilliant 90 minutes against Westoning the previous week, Baz Morris asked for more of the same against another of their title rivals, Campton Reserves. Campton are a strong side with talented and experienced players in their ranks. It was to be the home side which started the brighter forcing a number of early corners which Dunton had to be on their guard to avoid conceding an early goal. Having weathered the storm, it was to be a blitz of goals that secured the victory for the travelling side as they smashed in 3 goals in a period of seven minutes. Firstly, McGhee fired in a half volley from 16 yards out. It was McGhee again who skipped through the defence to go round the floundering keeper and slot home for 2-0. With the home side shell shocked, a weak back pass saw the jet heeled Jarman sprint to close down the keeper whose attempted clearance cannoned off the right winger and into the net for a bizarre third. This was superb to watch when you think back to the Marston debacle of weeks before.

In the second half you could see a real air of confidence from the Green Machine as they stroked the ball around with confidence and showed real belief on each others ability. W. Morris was replaced for the last half an hour by Pugh and his first action of the day was to feed Jarman out wide and he went through onto the keeper and dispatched the ball for 4-0 and his second of the game. A scoreline of 4-0 was to be the perfect present for the army of Dunton supporters but before they started thinking of the post match pints, Santa had another surprise in store which nobody would have guessed……………….

With five minutes left on the clock, Dunton were awarded a free kick 25 yards from goal. McGhee and Jarman were both discussing who should take it as they were both chasing hat-tricks. Then out of nowhere, Jon Ranson suggested he should have a crack at goal. The two players were clearly aghast at his suggestion but thought about the banter it would generate afterwards having seen his recent, woeful attempts at goal. As the Gattusso-esque midfielder ran up in slow motion like fashion, you could hear a pin drop. The defensive wall, which looked like it had been built by Stevie Wonder, looked nervous. They needn't have worried as the ball flew round the wall, curled back in and landed flush into the top corner. This sparked wild celebration and no one looked more surprised than Ranson himself!

There's only one Jonny Ranson - one Jonny Ranson - theres only one Jonny Ranson!

GOALS

T. Jarman 2

T. McGhee 2

J. Ranson 1

05/01/2008

DUNTON FC 7

WESTONING RES 1

Attendance: 14

Dunton entered the New Year sitting in second place and if they can win their game in hand, they will go top of the table. Also, after two high-scoring victories against title rivals, they have now reduced the goal difference that Bed S.A had to their advantage for most of the season. There were two enforced changes made by B. Morris due to W. Morris and D. Gaylor having work commitments. In came S. Monks at left back and D. Pugh was back in the starting line up after two games on the bench. Having played Westoning only 3 weeks ago they knew that the best way to play was at the high tempo they adopted the last time that enabled them to win 6-2. In fact the Green Machine bettered that by scoring 7 and conceding 1 which was a re-taken penalty after Dring had saved the first one brilliantly. The opening goal came from the right boot of young L. Threadgold who collected McGhee's pass and hit an early effort from 18 yards into the bottom corner after 16 minutes. The lead was doubled soon after when a weak clearance from the Westoning centre back fell to McGhee and he went past two players before finishing with his right foot. At 2-0 the boys were enjoying all the possession but similarly to last time they were caught out on the break and conceded a penalty which the Westoning striker converted at the second attempt. Right on the stroke of half time Dunton were given a life line when the Westoning striker cleared the cross bar from all of 6 yards when it was harder to miss.

The second half was all about Dunton and the home side got their third of the day when a cross from Sam Churam was met on the volley by D. Pugh for his ninth of the season. Duntons swift attacking was apparent for the fourth when a ball from Jarman found Ranson who miss controlled but regained possession to skin the right back and square for L. Threadgold to score his second. The away side were now looking at damage limitation and took off their two biggest attacking threats and replaced them with defenders. There was no stopping a rampant home side though and when Pugh cleverly layed the ball back to McGhee on the edge of the area, he rifled a first time effort past the keeper for his second of the day. With both Threadgold and McGhee chasing hat tricks, they were both eager to get that third goal to earn a free pint from bar man, Dave Gill. It was to be the youngster who did it though when Churms long through ball saw him one on one, he dribbled round the keeper and slotted home to show a bigger grin on his face than Cherie Blair's! The final action of the day came from wing wizard Arjen Gibben who ran onto McGhee's flick-on to hit an unstoppable shot in off the post and to spark off his now famous “Zoltan” celebration. Keep an eye out for it on soccer am, it's a classic!

After the game, we managed to get past the body guards to ask Lee Threadgold what he thought of the match. His response was “Er, yeah, it was quality!” We were then ejected from his dressing room as the autograph hunters surrounded him like vultures!

GOALS

L. Threadgold 3

T. McGhee 2

D. Pugh 1

D. Gibbs 1

26/01/2008

ICKWELL RES 2

DUNTON FC 1

Attendance : 29

Finally, this tie in the last 16 of the county cup was played after it was postponed due to bad weather the previous two weeks. The two teams met at the beginning of the season when Dunton ran out 6-2 winners in the Butcher Cup. This was to be a different story today with the home side progressing to the quarter finals and Dunton having to now set their sights on the league title and Butcher Cup.

With both sets of players knowing each other well, this had the feeling of a tense local derby. The two teams were fully committed to the cause but only once did the referee have to calm matters when W. Morris and Blair Woodward were told off for “handbags” when Wayne smudged Blair's mascara as he gave him a cheeky slap! They have now made up and are seeking guidance counselling.

If you only saw the opening 15 minutes you would not be blamed for thinking Dunton ran out easy winners as they had most of the play around the park and created a number of good chances to Ickwells one chance. They took the lead after 8 minutes when McGhee played a through ball to W. Morris who hit the shot so early the home keeper had no time to set himself and had to watch as the ball nestled into the bottom corner. This lifted the visiting support of Churms and his crutches as well as it disheartened the vocal home support of Trundley and his pet guinea pig. The scores were to be levelled on 25 minutes in the most bizarre of circumstances. A Lloyd back pass was controlled by Dring and as he took a second touch he fell to allow the grateful striker to bury into an empty net. Although this was devastating for Dring, he will earn a fee of £65.00 when he appears on “Dean Kiely's Goalkeeping Nightmares” which will be available from November this year for £3.99.

Ickwell then took the lead when a corner was swung in on 35 minutes which landed on the head of the dangerous P. Reid whose header into the top corner gave Lloyd no chance on the post.

With 45 minutes still to be played, the lads felt that they had more than enough time to get themselves back into the contest but they were well aware that they would have to earn that right and up their efforts from the first half. Ickwell seemed content to hold on to the 2-1 scoreline and retreated into their own half as Dunton huffed and puffed but just couldn't blow the house down. The most disappointing thing was that the home side were playing with a makeshift goalkeeper but in the second half, they couldnt manage genuine effort on goal apart from a T. Jarman snap-shot that thundered against the foot of the post with five minutes remaining.

Chasing the game, B. Morris pushed Gill up in an attempt to salvage the tie which left the Greens very vulnerable to the counter attack. This actually happened no fewer than three times, but it was the Star Man D. Lloyd who was exceptional in keeping the two lively strikers quiet single-handedly. In the end it just wasn't meant to be, and while a draw was a probably the fair result, you have to give credit to the home side and wish them all the best in the next round and beyond.

GOALS

W. Morris 1

02/02/2008

REDDINGS WOOD 3

DUNTON FC 4

Attendance 14

A disappointing cup defeat to local rivals, Ickwell Reserves, meant that the Green Machine's only chance of silverware lay with the league title and the Butcher Cup. With a minute left in this duel you would start to think that it would be just the butcher cup to aim for as the boys surrendered a 3-2 lead in the final minutes only to score a dramatic winner with the last kick thanks to a cross-shot from T. Jarman. The goal sparked manic celebrations amongst the players and the D-Elite on the sidelines who were vocal throughout mainly thanks to their leader, Ben “Mad Dog” Bryan.

Dunton took an early lead when Jarmans in-swinging corner was converted brilliantly by the home defender. His team mates would have forgiven him, until he ran to the corner flag and produced a “Roger Milla” celebration with his shirt over his head! Fortune was to play a part in the equaliser as the Reddings Wood striker shot straight at Dring, it cruelly deflected off Ransons shin to go in the opposite corner giving the keeper no chance and make it 1-1 at half time.

The second half saw no changes (only ends) as the away side battled for supremacy. They were caught out on the break with 30 minutes left when another weak shot from the striker eluded Drings dive and found its way into the net for a 2-1 lead to the home side. This was the time for the boys to show their mettle and when Jarman skinned the left back and squared for the hungry strikers, it deflected and hit the post only to fall to young Lee Threadgold who couldn't miss from 3 yards. Threadgolds reward was to be replaced with Carl Merser and it was the “vertically unchallenged” front man who made the third goal with some terrific battling to win the ball on the half way line and play a great ball to Jarman who then crossed for Pugh to head in from 8 yards and surely give the boys the three points.

With just two minutes on the clock, S. Monks was adjudged to have fouled the striker and although the ref played advantage, he called back play after they had missed and awarded a penalty to the Green boys dismay. The penalty was converted and at 3-3 and two points dropped, you could see the title slipping away before them. Right at the death a W. Morris corner was sent in perfectly for McGhee who somehow headed well wide. A change in contact lenses is strongly recommended for the power- house midfielder. However, the resultant goal kick was intercepted by B. Morris who played in Jarman and the “rapido” winger fired in thanks to a deflection to not only steal all the points, but maintain a title challenge which is gathering momentum nicely into the business end of the season.

GOALS

L. Threadgold 1

D. Pugh 1

T. Jarman 1

Own Goal 1

09/02/2008

DUNTON FC 7

ROYAL OAK 0

Attendance : 22

After last weeks incredible late winner, the home fans were hoping for entertainment but without the hearts stopping drama of seven days earlier. As it happened, there were to be 7 goals in the ninety minutes again but this time all of them went the way of the Green Machine as the boys got the stamp of approval in the post match news conference with Ben “Mad Dog” Brian and Sam “Nuckles” Mason.

Royal Oak arrived at Boot Lane hoping to improve on the last meeting between the two sides when Dunton trashed them by 9 goals to 2. With a half time scoreline of 5-0, the outlook wasn't good and this appeared to encourage the Oak goalkeeper to start taking on the forwards in an attempt to spark an unlikely comeback. It took 10 minutes for the opening goal as W. Morris closed in from the left hand side, he squared the ball for T. Jarman who took it in his stride and side footed to the keepers left with ease. 1-0 became 2-0 soon after when D.Pugh timed his run well to nod home from Jarmans free kick to take his tally to 11 for the season. Ten minutes later a goal kick was headed back into the Kempston half by McGhee and W. Morris galloped clear to go round the keeper and calmly make it 3-0. With the home sides back four rarely troubled and with Dring actually reading the paper at one stage, the attacking of Dunton produced another when Pugh turned provider for Jarman with a pull back for the winger to dispatch from 10 yards out. At 4-0 the travelling support had began to wane and they weren't helped when Pugh got his second of the game from the penalty spot after D. Baker had been scythed down in the area.

It was to be a day of mixed emotions for Baker who was enjoying his first start in Dunton colours after some impressive outings as a sub. He performed very well for the hour he was on the pitch and only a sickening late challenge would end his day and leave his ankle looking like one of his balls had slipped all the way down his leg to situate just above his foot. This theory could well have been true after he was smashed in the nether regions on two occasions in the first half that left him with a severe case of “scrambled eggs”. And they say lighting doesn't strike twice in the same place!

Goals number 6 and 7 were courtesy of McGhee and Jarman respectively. McGhee's being a fortunate right footed volley from the edge of the area. Jarman completing his hat-trick with minutes remaining as he buried from inside the area from a W. Morris pull back.

The best news of the day followed when Dunton TV's roving reporter, Frank MacSilvertale Jnr, announced that Flitwick had beaten Henlow by a goal to nil which meant the Green Boys were now sitting at the summit of the Division with a better goal difference and having a game in hand.

That's fine!

GOALS

T. Jarman 3

D. Pugh 2

T. McGhee 1

W. Morris 1

16/02/2008

ELSTOW 1

DUNTON FC 3

Attendance : 18

Now sitting proudly at the Division 1 summit, Dunton made the journey over to Elstow knowing that victory would no doubt keep them at the top due to their superior goal difference, regardless of Henlow result against Kempston. Their preparations were almost hindered when a number of players got lost on route after taking a Baz Morris “shortcut”.

The boys had a look of determination in their eyes as they warmed up and with the sight of their trusted following, the D-Elite, they would certainly have a twelfth man on the sideline that included a new member, Ash “Oxygen” King. The boys flew out of the blocks winning all the aerial battles and testing the home keeper constantly. They carved out no fewer than 5 one-on-one chances during the first 15 minutes and it was only some unbelievable goalkeeping that kept the scores at 0-0. The Green Machine were hitting their opponents down both flanks and when W. Morris controlled a pass and played it to D. Pugh, he took one touch and hit an unstoppable drive from 18 yards out giving the keeper no chance. It would have to be something special to beat this man mountain between the sticks and that's exactly what it was. Dunton continued to attack in numbers searching for a second when they were hit on the break by a swift counter from the home side that resulted in their striker making it 1-1 with ten minutes of the half remaining. The boys would have gone in at the interval 2-1 down had it not been for a superb save by Dring and some great improvisation from him to scoop the rebound away for a corner.

Manager B. Morris drummed into his players that they had to keep going full throttle to get the victory as any points dropped would have a major effect on where the league title ends up come May time. They were enjoying the lions share of the possession but it would be a set piece that would enable them the restore their advantage. An in-swinger from W. Morris was met perfectly by D. Gill and his bullet header flew into the top corner. We must thank him for shaving his head as if he hadn't, I am sure the ball would still be sitting in his “fro” right now! W. Morris had a good penalty shout turned down by the ref soon after but things were evened out when Lloyd wasn't punished for his flying save in the penalty box. Dunton could have and should have won by a larger margin but for the defiant home goalkeeping, they did manage to seal the points with 5 minutes left when D. Gaylor overlapped Pugh to control and pull the ball back for McGhee who finished from 8 yards.

Afterwards Ash “Oxygen” King said: I thought it was a great game and really enjoyed watching. I definitely will be applying for a season ticket as long as it doesn't interfere with me going to Oxygen, my home, where everybody knows my name.”

GOALS

D. Pugh 1

D. Gill 1

T. McGhee 1

23/02/2008

DUNTON FC 0

CALDECOTE RES 2

Attendance : 33

After a 4-1 thrashing earlier in the season, Caldecote arrived at Boot Lane looking for revenge for a humiliation on their own turf. After 90 minutes of cut and thrust football, they left with 3 points in the bag, a smile on their faces, and the knowledge they had left a huge dent in the Green Machines title hopes. It was a scrappy game but in a good way, as both sets of players played football when possible but also showed their own supporters that this was a derby game as the tackles flew in from all angles. Mostly from B. Morris on the tricky, Leeroy Odd.

Caldecote lined up with a midfield three which meant Underwood and McGhee would be outnumbered at times but they knew if they could get the ball out wide for Gibbs and Jarman, they could exploit the away sides' full backs and create opportunities for the front two of W. Morris and Pugh. The Green Machine started off the better side and were enjoying most of the possession. With 15 minutes on the clock, Jarman received the ball out wide and attacked his marker forcing him into a reckless challenge in the area which earned the home side a penalty. Pugh stepped up to the plate, his spot kick went wide of the left post to give the away supporters a sigh of relief. Of the Caldecote attack, Odd was presented with a few half chances which either went wide or were blocked by some last ditch defending from B. Morris and Lloyd.

In a disappointing second half the boys efforts were always visible but they just lacked that cutting edge to get in behind the resilient Caldecote back line that were well marshalled through out. Caldecotes first goal came when a break saw the ball land to Odd out on the right wing, his cross was met on the volley by the central midfielder and his effort drove in to the corner giving Dring little chance. As the home side attempted to get back on level terms, they threw everything at their opponents including the club tea – urn! Hence why Baz had to purchase another one last week from the local store, Urns ‘R' Us. They were caught out in the final minutes when Odd played in his strike partner from the half way line and he made no mistake in slotting it past Dring and cementing a well earned 3 points to take back to Caldecote village.

Post match, Steve Monks said: “Obviously I am gutted we lost the chance to stay top of the league and when the season ends I hope we don't regret it. Im off to Budgens now to sit outside with my crew, peace out”

With a massive tie against Henlow next week, the boys must re-focus and forget about this disappointing afternoon. Next week could be make or break.

GOALS

N/A

01/03/2008

HENLOW 3

DUNTON FC 0

Attendance : 12

This game was billed in the local press as your proverbial “six pointer” but with a poor showing of just 12 spectators, maybe the majority of fans decided to stay in and wait for the highlights later that evening. Dunton made a few changes that included Baker coming in at left wing-back and Jarman switching roles to go in behind the front two in a free-role. It was pleasing to see Baker return after having his third testicle re-attached after it was knocked off its string three weeks before in the game against Kempston.

With W. Morris unavailable due to Centre Parcs commitments, L. Threadgold partnered Pugh in the attack and they did well when they were presented with the ball. Unfortunately, this did not happen any where near enough as the Henlow midfield and forwards kept the Green Machine busy for a majority of the 90 minutes.

At half time, a 0-0 scoreline would have been fair, but a lucky deflection from a free kick left Dring with no chance as his dive to the right meant he had to watch the ball agonisingly land in his net. Henlow were unlucky not to have scored earlier when a corner was cleared off the line brilliantly. Henlow appealed furiously with the ref, but his view was that it didn't cross the line.

Within 10 minutes of the re start, a flowing move involving Monks and Jarman presented Threadgold with a 1 on 1 chance that was well saved by the home goalkeeper. The chances were few and far between for the Green Machine and their task was made worse when a wide free kick from the Henlow midfielder deceived everyone, including himself, to go straight in the goal to double the advantage for the home side and give them the cushion they needed to see out the remaining 20 minutes for a valuable win. Dunton almost reduced the arrears when Threadgold danced through the bewildered home defence only to drag his shot wide of the far upright.

With minutes left on the clock, Saunders pounced on a defensive error to gallop through on goal and coolly slot past Dring to claim the third goal and absolutely guarantee the three points.

The advantage is now with Henlow who have a three point lead on the Green Machine. Dunton do have a game in hand so the ball is in their court. This title race promises to go right down the wire and with Beds SA still lurking in third this is a three-horse-race with a photo finish more than likely.

GOALS

n/a

08/03/2008

DUNTON FC 5

SANDY RESERVES 2

Attendance : 53

After two hugely disappointing results against Caldecote and Henlow, a home derby with bitter rival, Sandy, could be seen as a blessing as the boys knew they were in for a real test against a side who were maybe not as talented in attacking terms but they still had some quality players who are capable of winning matched on their own, i.e. The two Ian's, Jakes and Hammett.

In reality this match was completely over by half time as the rampant home side looked to erase the pain of the previous fortnight and put a smile back on the faces of their paying fans, the D-Elite. They were a goal to the good after ten minutes when Monks passed to Jarman who turn and hit a fantastic left footed drive from 25 yards out that the goalkeeper could only stand and admire. The lead was double when Jarmans free kick was met by Pugh who headed in to the far corner on 25 minutes. Jarman played a part in the third when he was hacked down after “nutmegging” the defender to earn his side an 28 th minute penalty. Pugh showed bottle by stepping up and placing the ball to the keepers' left for 3-0. Unluckily for Pugh, the ref spotted and encroachment and ordered a re-take. Pugh's second kick was dispatched with the same ease and the memory of his miss a fortnight before was banished in a way similar to Stuart Pearces' spot kick at Euro 96.

A 3-0 scoreline left the home supporters satisfied and sparked ugly scenes between the away fans and their players as cries of “your not fit to wear the shirt” could be heard for miles. This appeared to galvanise the deflated Sandy players and their early efforts in the second half forced a few corners and set pieces in Duntons danger area. On 65 minutes a Sandy corner was headed out but only as far as Jennings, he controlled and fired in from 18 yards to give his side hope of a come back. The 3 goal margin was restored minutes later when McGhee robbed the Sandy midfielder and ran 25 yards before unleashing a 25 yard shot that looped over the 7 foot reach of the home keeper to make it 4-1. The boys appeared to relax again and were forced into fouling Jakes on the edge of the box. Up stepped Raggett who hit a missile of a free kick that almost broke the net.

The game was end to end and Sandy 's confidence meant they were attacking in numbers searching for a third. As a move broke down McGhee swung a ball over the Sandy defence that released Carl Mercer and the big striker took his time to coolly round the keeper and score to make the final score 5-2 and send both sets of supporter home knowing their respective teams had given their all.

GOALS

D. Pugh 2

T. Jarman 1

T. McGhee 1

C. Merser 1

15/03/2008

FLITWICK 1

DUNTON FC 0

Attendance 7

After a morale boosting victory over their local rivals, Sandy Reserves, the Green Machine made the journey over to Flitwick knowing a win was vital against a side who had sailed up the Division 1 table following an impressive win streak that has seem them undefeated at home this season.

Due to the unavailability of some key strikers, manager Baz Morris went with D. Pugh as the “spearhead” striker with Jarman and Gibbs in support with a midfield three of McGhee, Underwood and Ranson. A tense start to the game saw the home side enjoy the better chances as many of Duntons attacks were foiled by a goalkeeper who spent more time outside of his 18 yard box than in it!

The home side had a number of set pieces and they finally broke the deadlock on 35 minutes when a corner from the right was well met by the leaping centre back to give his side a 1 goal lead. It did appear that he had impeded the seven foot giant that is Garth Underwood but the referee didn't agree and gave the goal. As the boys had been warned previously, going a goal down to this team on their own pitch was not a good idea as they have won many league games this season by that margin. In the opening half the boys found it hard to get at their opponents goal on a pitch that had an incredible slant on it, it was very uneven and would go as far to say that Dale Whinton is straighter!

In the second half the boys hammered at their counter parts and as the game went on it became clear that if an equalizer was to be scored, it would be from a set piece. They had no fewer than 6 corners in the second half but could not find the net. There was one golden opportunity for D. Lloyd late on, but the usually composed finisher somehow headed over from half a yard out. With the boys committing themselves forward, there was always the possibility of conceding a second on the break and they probably would have had it not been for some commanding goalkeeping from the boy Dring. The Flitwick goalkeeper showed his credentials late on when Jarman faced him one on one as he reacted brilliantly to tip Jarmans shot on to the near post.

With another three points lost, it now appears that the title will be heading to either Beds S.A or Henlow. Only a minor miracle could see the boys from Boot Lane getting another shot at the title but you never know. Post match Baz Morris said “We tried hard but they are a hard team to break down once they get in front and with only one recognised striker, it was always gonna be a big ask, their keeper was alert to everything!”

GOALS

n/a

22/03/2008

DUNTON FC 4

KEMPSTON RES 2

Attendance : 14

Easter weekend is upon us and before the boys got their chocolate eggs, there was the small matter of a league game at home to Kempston Town Reserves. The away side were buoyed by the inclusion of three first team players after their premier league fixture was postponed due to the poor weather. This was going to be a test for the Green Machine but as Baz Morris rightly pointed out before kick off, if we are to go up this year we will be playing against people like this every week.

On a very wet and boggy pitch, Dunton played some really good football and all four midfielders and the front two were using the ball brilliantly with one touch passing and good movement that left the away defence chasing shadows at times. The games opening goals game courtesy of that lad Jarman. The right winger has weighed in with 21 goals now for the season after his hat trick today. His first of the day was the best one of the lot. He picked up the ball 30 yards out and hit a swerving effort that ended up in the top corner giving the goalkeeper no chance. W. Morris doubled the lead soon after when he was first to react to the keepers parry, he slotted home from 10 yards out with his trusted right boot. The lead was then cut to 2-1 when a corner was poorly defended allowing the Kempston striker to finish from 15 yards out. This didn't panic the home side who appeared to be more than confident in their ability to create chances and, indeed, take them. They were soon 3-1 up as Jarman scored his second to restore to two goal advantage with a great long range free kick.. Again, some poor marking from another corner gave the Kempston midfielder the chance to score and he did just that from the edge of the area. The score after an eventful first half, 3-2.

After such an entertaining first 45 minutes, the 14 strong crowd were eagerly waiting for the second half while they sipped on their Bovril. In truth, the second half did see a number of chances but the tempo was lower than the first period and maybe the ‘Good Friday drinking' finally took its toll as there was only one further goal that came courtesy of Jarman. He completed his hat-trick when L. Threadgold found space in the box, he unselfishly squared the ball to the wing wizard who took another match ball. He'll soon be opening his own shop on Potton market square next to Camerons, ‘Jarmans White Balls Ltd' will be its name.

With 20 minutes left on the clock, Kempston were dealt with a huge injury blow as D. Gill was carried off for Dunton with a suspected dislocated shoulder. They had been trying to get him on the ball as much as possible to create chances for their front 2 and when he left the field of play, the chances evaporated immediately.

After the final whistle blew, manager Morris commented ‘I am immensely proud of todays performance. Bearing in mind we were missing some key players coupled with the inclusion of some first team players for them, I think it was one our best games of the season, certainly since the turn of the year.

GOALS

T. Jarman 3

W. Morris 1

05/04/2008

MARSTON SOCIAL 0

DUNTON FC 1

Attendance : 19

Marston Social are unrecognisable from the side that kicked off their league campaign in August with a series of embarrassing double figure defeats. They are now a solid team with an experienced back line and a goal threat from most of their attacking positions. For the Green Boys to leave the ground with three points and a clean sheet shows how far the boys have come since their disappointing cup defeat to the same team back in November. Marston had beaten the other two teams battling it out for the league title in previous weeks so Dunton knew that they would have to be on top of their game to gain the pints required to keep themselves in the hunt for silverware.

For the opening 45 minutes there really was only one team in it as Dunton created some really good openings and won all of their battles all over the park. The forward play and movement of Threadgold and W. Morris had the experienced centre backs at sixes and sevens at times and it was only some unlucky finishing that kept the scores at 0-0. Lloyd was having a masterful game at the back reading every thing that their lively striker was throwing at him while B. Morris was getting the better of a blood and guts tussle with their other striker. Dunton almost took the lead on 20 minutes when Threadgold was sent clear one on one by D. Gibbs and as he rounded the keeper you really could see only one outcome. Unfortunately for the young striker, he dragged his shot past the far post and Marston breathed a sigh of relief. The goal looked to be on its way with a number of wide set pieces from Jarman and McGhee causing the home defence all sorts of problems. In the 35 th minute Duinton got their reward for the hard work when Threadgold skinned three players with one move on the halfway line, he played in W. Morris who was one on one with the keeper. He struck it well but the keeper parried it only to the outstretched feet of Jarman who used his “go-go gadget” leg to score and send the away section of the crowd into complete delirium! It took two youngsters on the nearby “see-saw” to calm them down.

After such an impressive and uplifting half, the Greens went out for the second period knowing Marston would be throwing everything at them. That is exactly what did happen and for the entire second 45 the boys were reduced to counter attacks that were few and far between. The fact that they held on will stick long in the memory of the D-Elite fans who chanted continuously, willing their team on to the finish line. Every single player dug to the very deepest to ensure they didn't concede. They almost put the tie to bed with 5 minutes left when substitute D. Pugh was given a half chance which did beat the keeper but just whistled past the upright.

As the referee blew his final whistle you could see the delight in everyones faces and the knowledge that maybe they could win their remaining fixtures and pick up the league title in the first season since their reformation.

GOALS

T. Jarman 1

09/04/2008

DUNTON 2

SANDY RES 1

Attendance : 72

After their fantastic league win over Marston, the boys could put aside their title aspirations and focus on the opportunity of getting to a cup final against either Gamlingay or Campton Reserves. Their semi-final opponents were Sandy Reserves whom they'd beaten just a month before by 5 goals to 2. There was a strong crowd as this was not only a local derby, it also saw a number of Dunton players facing their team mates from last season.

The game started at a frantic pace and it took 4 minutes for the first clear opportunity. A throw in to the Dunton box saw Ranson trip Hartwell and the referee didn't hesitate in giving the spot kick. Sandy striker Hammet stepped up to take it but he met his match in Campbell who saved well to his right to keep the scores level. This was a blessing for the Green Machine and they would thank Campbell a number of times throughout the game for some outstanding goalkeeping. A chance at the other end when Jarman was set free down the right he squared to the un-marked McGhee but he somehow cleared the cross bar from 8 yards out much to the delight of the intimidating Sandy support. There would be no mistake from W. Morris 5 minutes later though as he was sent through by the energetic Ranson. He side stepped the defender to his left and clipped the ball “Raul” style over the dive of Wheatley and into the net. This definitely settled the nerves of the Green Boys and they began to get the ball down and pass with more confidence. Carl Mercer was given his first Dunton start and he took his chance with an impressive 45 minutes before he was swapped with Dave “dull boots” Pugh. It was Mercer who created the second for Dunton in the 40 th minutes when he sent the ball out wide to Jarman who ran at his marker beating him with ease before unleashing a top corner effort from the edge of the box to double his sides advantage.

As said, Mercer was replaced by Pugh for the second half and although the boys failed to further their scoring tally, they did create the chances that maybe they would have taken on another day. Sandys desire didn't drop at any time and their non-stop running was working as it didnt allow their opponents any time to settle on the ball. They pulled a goal back with 15 minutes left when the wriggly otter, Ian Jakes, scored a deflected goal that gave Campbell no chances as he'd already started diving in the other direction. With the tie now on a knife-edge, Dunton were give the chance to book their place at Langford when Wheatley took out Jarman in the box as he headed towards goal. The penalty was given and Wheatley stayed on the pitch after getting a yellow card. His presence counted as he saved from W. Morris' spot kick. However, an incroachment was spotted that meant a re-take. Up stepped Morris again and incredibly Wheatley saved again. This was fantastic drama and the fans were certainly getting value for money at just £1.00 per ticket. Right at the death Sandy almost took the match to penalties when Dan Threadgold pounced on a loose ball to fire at goal. However, Campbell was there to pull off a tremendous save and guarantee that the Green Machine would march on to Langford for the 25 th April showpiece finale.

GOALS

W. Morris 1

T. Jarman 1

12/04/2008

DUNTON 0

CAMPTON RES 2

Attendance : 28

Dunton entertained Campton Reserves at boot lane knowing a win was the only option if they were to keep up their challenge for league honours. After 45 minutes the home fans were scratching their heads at how their beloved Green Machine were not leading this tie. At the end of the game they were visibly shaken at the fact they had just witnessed the Greens dominate a game throughout and somehow lose 2-0.

The first half saw the boys creating chance after chance but a combination of poor finishing and good goalkeeping kept the scores level at the interval. They continuously carved open their opponents but the end product just wasn't there when needed. You got the feeling that a goal would open up the floodgates but it just didn't come. The most notable opportunity came to the feet of the cultures sweeper, Dan Lloyd. He played a neat one-two with McGhee on the halfway line and cantered through on goal like an excited puppy only for a breakdown in communication between himself and Dave “dull boots” Pugh saw the striker take the shot instead which was well saved by the goalkeeper. This could have been a blessing as had Lloyd converted, we may never have heard the end of it. With Ranson only just getting tired of telling us about his Christmas free kick, another goal of this nature could have proved catastrophic.

The second half was much the same as the first with the home team threatening at goal while Campton seemed happy to attack on the break. It was in this way that their first goal came when a clearance was missed by the home defence and although Lloyd did well to make up the ground on the pacey striker he could only foul him on what appeared to be the edge of the area. Unfortunately, the referee saw it differently and awarded a penalty much to the annoyance of Lloyd who let the man in black know in no uncertain terms that he disagreed with the decision. The penalty was taken and converted. With the Green Machine carrying on their assault on goal they had a good penalty shout themselves when Mercer wriggled his way through a crowded area only to be nearly decapitated by the travelling goalkeeper. This time the ref didn't award anything other than a goal kick which drew an angry reaction from the home crowd. This resulted on the referee needing a police escort out of horseshoe close due to the fear of the D-Elite getting hold of him and giving him there version of a “penalty”. It was actually this goal kick which led to the killer second goal when a header was flicked on to the striker who, from the left hand side, played a cross into his partner who did the rest with a swerving shot into the left corner.

The title chase is now a distant memory and with only the cup final to now look forward to, the boys will need to be on top form when they meet Gamlingay at Forde Park , Langford, a week on Friday.

GOALS

n/a

19/04/2008

DUNTON FC 3

STEVINGTON 0

Attendance : 15

It was a lovely day for football as normal on a playing surface that has lasted the whole season with only one game being called off due to heavy rain. That day was not a total loss when the locals erected a diving board and enjoyed a day out at Dunton Swimming Baths. The boys kicked off and the game had a feeling of an end of season encounter with both sides with not much to play for, a bit like West Ham every season. You could perhaps forgive the Greens for holding back a little due to their big cup game the following Friday against Gamlingay.

Stevington had a lively front pairing of Higgins and King that would keep the back four on their toes throughout. It was to be Duntons attacking line up that would come off the pitch at full time with the biggest smiles as the forward pairing of Pugh and Threadgold pulled the Stevington back four all over the park and thus opened up huge areas for the midfield quartet of McGhee, Jarman, Underwood and Gibben. After an opening first twenty minutes that saw the Stevington goalkeeper spend more time outside his area than in it, Dunton finally opened the scoring when Underwood flicked on a loose ball and Jarman darted through to pass it past the keeper with ease. Stevington were still enjoying a fair share of opportunities but Higgins couldn't hit the target when given his chances around the penalty box. The boys came off at half time looking forward to their over priced Lucozade and a chat with the gaffer.

The second half saw a slight drop in tempo due to the heat but this meant the boys were passing rather than running with the ball which actually worked for the Green Machine. Although the boys should maybe have scored more, the final score of 3-0 seemed a fair reflection on the game. The main reason they should have notched more was maybe due to the absence of their goalkeeper for the last 15 minutes. McGhee sent a ball over the top and Pugh was clean through on the keeper. He knocked it past the onrushing number 1 only to be clothes-lined in a fashion that Hulk Hogan would have been proud of. He may have got away with just a yellow if he hadn't then ran into some imaginary ropes, leg-dropped Pugh then pinned him for a pin count of 3. However, he drew applause from both sets of fans as he left the field with his imaginary World Title Belt held above head. The resulting free kick was dispatched by Jarman as he curled a superb low effort round the 5 man wall. After McGhee had been sensationally substituted, Underwood stepped into the attacking role and rounded off his Star Man display with a third goal of the day and put the icing on the well baked cake.

GOALS

T. Jarman 2

G. Underwood 1

25/04/2008

DUNTON FC 0

GAMLINGAY 4

Attendance : 218

Have you ever had a game of Pro Evo or Fifa Soccer and found yourself a few goals down within twelve minutes? Well I have and its bloody hard to come back from. The reality in this game was that Gamlingay started this game much better than the Green Machine and fully deserved to lift the trophy at the end of ninety minutes. Their first goal came after just 4 minutes when a corner was swung in from the left and was well met by the left winger. This would hopefully wake the Dunton boys up but there was worse to follow as the Gamlingay full back hit a long range effort that gave Campbell no chance. Some teams can come back from two down but from three? I haven't seen that since Istanbul 2005. That third was a carbon copy of the first as the left hand corner was met by a midfelder and the striker flicked it in to spark huge celebration amongst the Gamlingay fans even though there was a good 85 minutes left on the clock. The remainder of the first half was a very even affair that saw McGhee have a volleyed shot go just over the bar as did Pugh's when a defensive lapse game him a chance with a snap shot that went just over.

To have any chance of getting back into the game or at least making it interesting, an early goal was an absolute must and the sooner the better. Unfortunately for Dunton, the fourth goal of the game was again for Gamlingay and it was a fortuitous one at that. A weak shot from just inside the box took a wicked deflection which gave Campbell no chance. Without even luck on their side, it was blatantly clear that this would not be their night. The boys only had pride to play for and to their credit they continued to battle to the end and enjoyed a number of set pieces that they should have done better with. A number of players ran themselves into the ground even with the game lost but it would be Pugh who would be awarded with the Star Man award for his non-stop effort and running that at one stage saw him the last man back as a Gamlingay player ran in on goal,. He did just enough to put him off and came out of it with a broken finger after colliding with Campbell .

No denying, this a hugely disappointing end to a cup run that promised so much. You could say that the boys didn't turn up for the first 15 minutes, which proved to be just enough time for their opponents to end the game before it had really begun. Congratulations to Gamlingay, a deserved victory and scoreline.

GOALS

N/A

26/04/2008

KEMPSTON RES 4

DUNTON FC 1

Attendance : 7

Just 18 hours after their crushing cup final defeat, Dunton travelled over to Kempston on a day that was far more suitable for getting a sun tan. The pitch was unbelievable, it resembled that of a Ghanaian pitch or something you may see on comic relief. The boys had their autograph pads ready should Madonna or Angelina Jolie turn up looking for a new baby to adopt!

With a low attendance and an even lower showing of quality, this game was not an enjoyable one to play in or no doubt to watch. It was made even worse when Campbell was given a red card outside the area which saw Jarman have to go in goal as the only outfield player with experience of such a fine art. The boys were already 2-0 down at this stage so any hope of a comeback was slimmer than Gilly's wallet. They were given brief hope just before half time when a McGhee corner found its way into the net when the defender had an opportunity to clear. God knows why he left it but McGhee wasn't complaining as he notched his 19 th goal of the season.

Kemspton hit another two in the second half that summed up a miserable weekend for the Dunton army and one that they will want to forget. They now have just one game remaining and that is at home to the rude boys of Kempston. Kissing their teeth, stone in their shoe, Craig David beard and ¾ length shorts. Cant wait. Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrap !!!

GOALS

T. McGhee 1

03/05/2008

DUNTON FC 2

KEMPSTON 2

Attendance : 22

The boys entered into their final game of the season having enjoyed a respectable third place that may see them win promotion to the top flight at the first time of asking. This is actually a grand achievement for Baz Morris who has built a good footballing team with both youth and experience. There is also a great team spirit that will be vital for the step up next season should it happen.

The opponents for the day were Kempston, who the boys had beaten 4-1 earlier in the season after going 1-0 down. Many of Duntons players were to be taking part in a Sunday Cup Final the following day and this had an effect on the managers team selection. McGhee, Pugh and Churms were on the bench with a clear eye on the came the next day and Underwood was played in at centre back to try him out for the final. This actually was a brilliant find as Garth settled to his task effortlessly and will surely play more games in that role in the coming seasons.

With such a change around in positions, the boys took a bit of time to get into gear. They did create some chances and were mainly relying on the pace of Jarman to unlock the Kempston defence. The rude boys from Bedford opened the scoring when they forced a corner. The in-swinger was not cleared properly and the Kempston midfielder fired in from close range. This sparked the Dunton midfield into life and it was Ranson who created the equaliser when he played a great ball into Threadgold who controlled well and slid it past the keepers dive.

The half time interval saw D. Gibben and L. Threadgold replaced with D. Pugh and D. Baker. It was still a very end to end game with both teams enjoying a number of chances. Kempston restored their lead when the striker found his way into the box only to be brought down by Lloyd. It appeared that the sweeper got a toe on the ball but the referee saw it differently and pointed to the spot. The converted penalty restored the away side's advantage. Dunton made their final substitution as McGhee was brought into the action. They started to push their opponents back and a goal seemed to be coming. While they created a handful of good chances, the equalizer that came was one you don't see every day as McGhee swung a corner straight into the net for the second week on the trot.

The game ended level and both teams went home happy. No injuries sustained before the big game on Sunday and a point on the final day. A third place finish may be deemed as a disappointment after such a promising start but if the manager was offered a promotion spot back in August there is no doubt he would have taken it. The boys can now look forward to next season in the knowledge that if everyone stays together, they have to ability to compete at the top level and have the team spirit and camaraderie for a thoroughly enjoyable 08/09 campaign.

GOALS

L. Threadgold 1

T. McGhee 1