match reports

29th April 2007

Opponents: Cold Ash

Venue: AWE Aldermaston

Kick-Off: 09:00 AM

Referee: Clive Coombe

Assistants: Greg Beckett, Steven Williams

Final Score: Barton Rovers 1 v 5 Cold Ash

Perfect conditions again, cool, a gentle breeze and hazy sunshine saw an excellent start for Rovers pushing forwards from the kick off. After a poor clearance Williams floated the ball back into the area and, after a attempts by several players to either clear or score, Gerrard won the ball and fired home to give Rovers an early lead.

The next ten minutes or so the game flowed backwards and forwards with little advantage gained or conceded until a great knock forwards, and over the top, saw a superb run and equaliser from Cold Ash. The game then had another period with hard work by both teams but no real advantage until another good break saw Cold Ash win a penalty. This was dispatched cleanly to give them the lead at 1 - 2.

The second half started and play was again evenly matched for a period until Cold Ash won a free kick. This came through the middle and was well picked up and struck such that the Rovers keeper couldn't hold it and put Cold Ash 1 - 3 up.

A few minutes later saw another ball come over the top and, after beating the defender and going around the keeper, Cold Ash went 1 - 4 up.

With only 5 minutes to go there was hope for Rovers when they were awarded a penalty for a push. Credit has to go to the goalkeeper who stopped a well struck shot to maintain their advantage.

With time running out Rovers found themselves well and truly beaten when, after another long ball, it was collected and lobbed over the keeper to make the final score 1 - 5 to Cold Ash.

The Barton Rovers man of the match award was, as always, not unanimous and the votes were spread around several contenders. But, having worked really hard this week - playing well pressing forwards as well as in defence - the winner was Jordan Williams. An excellent choice - well done Jordan!

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Gerrard (3)

Scorers for Cold Ash: Unknown (14, 21, 51,54, 60)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Brandon Sheldon

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

1st April 2007

1 st April 2007, Barton Rovers U11 A Team Report

Opponents: Twyford Comets

Venue: Stanlake Meadow

Kick-Off: 10:00 AM

Referee: Andy Brymer

Final Score: Barton Rovers . . . . 2 v 1Twyford Comets

Another cool Spring like morning with a little gusty breeze and sunshine saw provided excellent conditions for the match.

A lively start saw Bourke, for Rovers, collect from a throw in down the left and do well to get into the penalty area. Unfortunately the angle was tight and the side netting was the result. Some minutes later and Partridge made a great run through into the area for Rovers. The defender tried to force him wide but he was able to pull the ball back into the middle where Bourke was waiting, no side netting this time, 1 - 0 to Rovers.

Partridge himself, played through by a long ball from Rose, had another chance shortly afterwards but the Comets keeper got down quickly and saved well. With half time almost up Comets pressed Rovers back in an effort to level. A good break by them and a good shot saw and an equally good save by Sheldon (playing in goal for Rovers) - with his legs after dropping low.

With the half time whistle due, Comets continued to press. Failure to clear after a scramble in the Rovers six yard box saw a snap shot stopped by the hand of a defender. The penalty was awarded and well dispatched by Maltese, for the Comets, to level the scores for half time.

The second half started much as the first. Bourke received a long ball from Rose and a great strike was well stopped by the Comets keeper. The game went from end to end for a while and no advantage was gained. Half way through and Rovers win a corner. From it a minor scramble and several attempts to clear or score went begging until Clark, for Rovers, connected to put Rovers back in front.

And that was how the game finished. Rovers 2, Comets 1.

The Barton Rovers man of the match award was again really close between several players this week. Again, this is good because it means the team is playing well. So a huge well done to Brandon Sheldon. He spent the first half doing an excellent job in goal and, among many other contributions, took some great corners in the second half.

On a general note I thought it was another solid performance by the boys this week and they all deserve a pat on the back for their efforts - well done all of you.

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Bourke (13), Clark (44)

Scorers for Twyford Comets: Maltese (28)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Brandon Sheldon

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

25th March 2007

Opponents: Cold Ash

Venue: Turnhams Farm

Kick-Off: 10:30 AM

Referee: Simon Hinsley

Final Score: Barton Rovers . . . . 0 v 2 Cold Ash

Cold Ash started the game on a cold day and firm ground in what was a mirror match for the upcoming Chronicle Cup Final game next month.

Both teams looked sharp and determined and worked hard to forge openings and chances. Almost the whole first half passed with only a handful of half chances created by both teams and with half-time rapidly approaching, and some late pressure by Rovers, a penalty was awarded to Rovers after one of their players was tumbled in a goal mouth scramble.

Rose stepped up to take the kick and looked set to score but didn't strike the ball cleanly and the keeper saved the shot to run the game into the break with no goals.

The second half started pretty much as the first had been and for fifteen minutes or so everything was evenly matched. Then came the break that Cold Ash wanted. A good run to the right-hand side by Oakman seemed to be going out too wide but a great strike, which went high and to the far post, gave them the lead.

A few minutes later saw another good fast break by Cold Ash and in trying to stop the attempt on goal Rovers conceded a penalty themselves. Up stepped Humphries and, with a good penalty, he gave Cold Ash a two goal cushion.

Rovers fought hard to get back into the game but with the exception of a header from Robbins, which went just wide of the post, they didn't really trouble the Cold Ash keeper.

The Barton Rovers man of the match award went to Nick Dyer. He had a really strong game - as did the rest of the defence. To give credit where due it should be mentioned that Aaron was also a strong contender for the award - his clear calling and marshalling of the defence at the back has made a lot of progress this season and today he excelled.

Scorers for Barton Rovers:

Scorers for Cold Ash: Oakman (48), Humphries (51 Pen)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Harry Rose

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

18th March 2007

Cup Semi-Final

Opponents: Kennett Valley

Venue: Turnhams Farm

Kick-Off: 10:30 AM

Referee: Roy Maybanks

Final Score: Barton Rovers 3 v 2 Kennett Valley

The day looked like it could be difficult with a wind blowing steadily straight down the pitch but at least the sun was shining when the game began. Kennett kicked off, playing into the wind, and launched themselves headlong up-field - a fast start, which won them an early corner. Quickly taken it came into the Barton area but wasn't cleared. It fell to a Kennett player and he drilled it low into the back of the net to give them the early lead.

Barton strove hard from the restart and for the next quarter hour or so the game flowed backwards and forwards with half chances from both teams but no further scoring. After 17 minutes Barton had the ball in the net, from Bourke, but he was adjudged offside. Within a minute though Barton got the equaliser. After good work down the left, and an equally good cross, Wayman hammered the ball in to level at 1-1.

Both teams then continued to fight hard to gain the upper hand but as half-time approached it was Barton who got the advantage. A clearance from the back saw Wayman collect the ball in the centre and then he started one of his runs. Although the defender tracked him, and was forcing him wide, he could not prevent the powerful shot. The keeper managed to get two hands to the ball but he couldn't hold it and it carried over the line to close out the half at 2-1 in favour of Barton.

The second half started as expected - with Kennett out to level the match - and the spectators enjoyed plenty of end to end entertainment from both teams. Around 10 minutes into the half we had a minute or two of hail and rain but rather than slow things down it seemed to spur both teams on!

From a spell of pressure by Kennett a long clearance found Bourke, just inside his own half, collecting the ball and controlling it with a good first touch. He turned and made straight for goal. An excellent run was matched by an excellent finish, 3-1 to Barton.

Kennett stepped up their game and, while it was never one sided, kept plugging away to try and close the gap. With the end of the game fast approaching the constant pressing paid off. After some of the Barton players thought that an offside was called a mix-up saw the ball trickle over the line to close the gap to 3-2.

The final few minutes of the game kept all spectators glued to the game and there was plenty of encouragement for both teams. But, much to the relief of the Barton supporters, the final whistle went with the score in Rovers favour.

This weeks man of the match was one of the most hotly contested this season and understandably so. After a great set of performances by everyone involved it was fantastic to see the captain, Harry Rose, take the accolade this week. Once again, on behalf of everyone who was supporting the team, many congratulations on the award and, with the match win as well, an all round team congratulations in reaching the cup final.

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Wayman (18,30), Bourke (39)

Scorers for Kennett Valley: Unknown (1), Unknown (54)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Harry Rose

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

11th March 2007

Opponents: Thatcham

Venue: Henwick Worthy

Kick-Off: 10:30 AM

Referee: John Tate

Final Score: Thatcham 2 v 3 Barton Rovers

Another great day for a match, sunshine, a steady breeze and the pitch soft but not slippery. Barton won the toss and elected to go with the breeze behind them but slightly uphill in the first half.

The first ten minutes seemed to fly by with only a couple of forays goalwards by each team and no substantial chances made to talk of. Barton then started to work up a nice spell of pressure with good crosses into the area from Gerrard and Dyer respectively but the Thatcham keeper collected well to stifle any scoring chances.

Exactly half way through the half Barton were awarded a free kick which was taken by Gerrard. His long ball in was stopped, but not held, by the keeper and Bourke latched on quickly to stab the ball home for the lead.

As you would expect the home side fought back and started a spell of pressure of their own as the game moved towards half time. A long clearance through the middle slipped between the Barton keeper and a defender where it was picked up and drilled home by Futcher to level the scores.

The second half started with another strong spell for Thatcham. One of their chances saw the ball roll along the Barton goal line and just trickle out of play for a goal kick. Thatcham kept pressing and were rewarded when a long ball in from the right hand side bounced up over the keeper to give them the lead.

It was around this point that Barton started to play their best football. Moving the ball around well and players making space to help each other out. After some great skill in the centre to get the ball and beat his marker Gerrard sent a lovely ball out to the right where it was collected by Wayman. He ran around his marker in turn and fired in a hard driven shot which was deflected slightly but still went flying in for the equalizer.

Barton pressed again after the restart. Winning the ball and again running down the right hand side Wayman beat his man and chipped in a well weighted cross. It was equally well met by Gerrard who angled his header beautifully into the back of the net to give Barton the lead back again.

With time running out Thatcham worked hard to get something out of the game and with only a couple of minutes to go it looked like they had. From a corner which was not properly cleared they had the ball in the back of the net only to see it disallowed for offside. While they continued to try up until the final whistle Thatcham were unable to get past the Barton defence. Final score Thatcham 2, Barton 3.

This weeks man of the match went to Daniel Wayman. It was, as always, hotly contested and very well deserved - congratulations Daniel, keep up the good work! I have to add a general well done to the whole team for keeping the choice difficult to make. Lets see if you can all keep up the good work for next weeks game.

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Bourke (15), Wayman (51), Gerrard (53)

Scorers for Thatcham: Futcher (24), Patton (35)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Daniel Wayman

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

11th February 2007

Opponents: Burghfield

Venue: Mortimer West End Cricket Club

Kick-Off: 10:30 AM

Referee: Ian Meachem

Final Score: Barton Rovers 2 v 2 Burghfield

A great day for the game, sunny spells, not too cold and a gentle breeze. After all of the wet weather it was amazing that the pitch was in such great condition.

As usual both teams came out looking to get the upper hand and after several minutes of fairly even play it was Burghfield who got the early break. A good through ball got behind the Rovers defence and Raines latched onto it quickly to slide his shot home for the lead.

More good football followed from both sides with no easy advantage being gained. A promising move by Rovers saw Bourke make a good run down the left and he put over a strong cross which was not well managed by the defence. After a couple of failed attempts to clear the ball Wayman made his presence felt for Rovers, getting his foot in, to score and level the match.

As half time approached Rovers were coming out quickly from defence and pushed through a weak effort and it looked to be well cleared by Burghfield. Wilkins collected in the middle of the park and, from long range, fired a powerful effort which the keeper got his hands onto but he couldn't prevent it going over the line. Rovers two, Burghfield one.

It seemed that the game had hardly restarted when a long clearance by Burghfield saw Kelly, for Burghfield, latch onto the ball and slip it into the Rovers net to level at two-two. Almost from the restart the whistle went for half time.

The second half saw similar battles to the first with each team having brief spells of dominance but neither able to convert their respective efforts into goals.

This weeks man of the match went to Jack Wilkins. It was not uncontested as several players all had claims for well played games but Jack got the nod and the award was very well deserved. Well done to the whole team for making the choice difficult, lets see if you can all keep up the good work.

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Wayman (13), Wilkins (28)

Scorers for Burghfield: Raines (5), Kelly (30)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Daniel Wayman

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

10th December 2006

10 th December 2006, Barton Rovers U11 A Team Report - Chronicle Cup Match

Opponents: Cold Ash

Venue: Turnhams Farm

Kick-Off: 10:00 AM

Referee: Simon Hinsley

Final Score: Barton Rovers . . . . 4 v 1 Cold Ash

Very cold to start the day, still a little bit of frost lying when people started arriving pitch side. The sun was shining though and the pitch was soft enough so, after several weeks worth of cancellations, the match got the green light!

The first few minutes started with both teams working hard to get possession and forge openings. They both had early efforts but none were on target and goal kicks made for easy clearances. With around five minutes gone Rovers broke quickly down the right and, seeing that the Cold Ash defence was looking stretched, Wayman made straight for goal. He beat his man well and slipped the ball past the keeper to give Rovers an early lead.

Cold Ash responded well and had a very long period where they looked to have the edge but, although they fashioned a number of chances, they were unable to convert them into goals due to some solid work by Rovers defence.

It was in the run up to half time before Rovers really threatened again with a great effort from Bourke rebounding off the crossbar. A couple of minutes later saw Sheldon receive the ball from a throw-in, make an overhead kick, which found Bourke in the box and he made no mistake to put Rovers two goals up at half time.

The second half started with good pressure from Cold Ash and they were awarded a penalty after one of their players was fouled in the area. The penalty was cleanly struck but Watkins made a great dive to his right and managed a fingertip save to maintain Rovers advantage.

Almost immediately the ball, having been quickly cleared, was in the Cold Ash penalty area where a trip saw a penalty awarded to Rovers. Bourke, nominated to take it, made a run at the ball but didn't strike it cleanly allowing the keeper to save and keep the scores the same.

Cold Ash again bossed the game for a while but were unable to convert their possession into goals. As the game moved towards it's close a fast break by Rovers saw good interplay between Wayman and Bourke. As the ball came into the area Bourke struck a solid shot but had to watch as it rebounded off the crossbar. The rebound fell to Wayman and he slammed the ball home to put Rovers three in front.

A few minutes later Rovers again found themselves breaking out from the back. This time Hinsley made a good run down the left and his great cross found Wayman who coolly slotted home for his hat-trick.

Cold Ash came back kept their heads up and worked hard knowing that there wasn't much time left. Their efforts finally found a reward when a good ball played through the middle found Oakman. He in turn beat his markers to slot home a good goal but it proved to be only a consolation.

This weeks man of the match was once again a difficult decision, with a penalty save by Aaron and several outfield players making their mark it made it really tough to choose. I guess that the balance was tipped firmly in one direction when he netted his third goal of the day though - so this weeks winner is Daniel Wayman. Cracking game today Daniel, very well done. And of course a big pat on the back to the rest of the team for a good win today - keep it up lads!

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Wayman (5,50,52), Bourke(28)

Scorers for Cold Ash: Oakman (56)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Daniel Wayman

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

19th November 2006

19 th November 2006, Barton Rovers U11 A Team Report

Opponents: Twyford

Venue: Swanlake Meadow

Kick-Off: 10:00 AM

Referee: Tom Brymer

Final Score: Twyford . . . . 0 v 5 Barton Rovers

A perfect morning for the match, sunny and bright but cool with the early frost all gone. After a couple of weeks since the last competitive game everyone was looking forward to this morning to see if the lads could continue their much improved performance.

Twyford started the game and both teams set about winning the ball and worked hard to play a passing game. After an evenly balanced opening period it was the home side who created the first chance. A move down their left hand side saw the ball worked into the penalty area and a strong shot went right across the face of the Rovers goal only to go wide for a goal kick.

Rovers responded well to this and went on to create several chances themselves. Ellis, after a strong run down the left, had a powerful shot go just over the bar. A good pullback pass from Wilkins saw Bourke's effort go too close to the keeper who collected easily in the end.

With half-time approaching a break through the centre again saw Bourke have another good effort stopped, the clearance was not good though and Robbins looped a shot back which saw Rovers head in at half time with a one goal advantage.

The second half started much as the first with both teams working hard to gain an advantage. But the game relly opened up for Rovers when, after a good long clearance by Watkins and a super run and cross by Ellis, Clark knocked the ball in at the far post to put them two goals up.

Rovers now looked a little more confident and started to move the ball about better and it wasn't long before they won a corner to keep the pressure up. Bourke took the kick and his snappy cross went through several players to be picked up, and knocked in, again at the far post by Clark.

A short while later and another corner for Rovers, again taken by Bourke. The ball got into the 6 yard area and was not cleared by Twyford. After a brief scramble Hinsley put a solid shot in which found the back of the net and put Rovers four goals up.

With not long left to go it looked like the game would finish up with this score but. Rovers won a free kick down the left. It was taken quickly and Bourke continued down the left and launched a fantastic long ball towards the far post. The keeper tried to take the ball from the air but the power took it through his hands and into the net to put Bourke on the score sheet.

This weeks man of the match was strongly contested by the whole team! In the end it became too close to call and it was jointly awarded to both Ben Partridge and Harry Rose. Very well done to you both. The rest of the team deserve congratulations too for a good all round performance - keep it up lads!

[There is another MOTM picture attached and that is for Charlie Robbins. This is from the friendly a couple of weeks ago when I was unable to get a picture. A well done to you for that Charlie, it's a little late but the award was well deserved]

Finally: I doubt if it makes too much difference to anyone now but did anybody else notice that we only played about 28 minutes in each half - or did I miss something?

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Robbins (26), Clark (39,44), Hinsley (50), Bourke (58)

Scorers for Twyford:

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Ben Partridge/Harry Rose (shared)

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

29th October 2006

Opponents: Caversham

Venue: Turnhams Farm

Kick-Off: 10:30 PM

Referee: Simon Hinsley

Final Score: Barton Rovers 1 v 2 Caversham

Another nice day for a match, sunny but cool - with a gentle breeze blowing across the pitch. Everyone was looking forward to this game after last weeks much improved performance.

Throughout the first half the competition was fierce. Early Rovers efforts came from Ellis and Rose but the keeper collected well while another effort from Wayman was wide of the mark. Caversham were kept well away from the Rovers goal for most of the half but did have a great effort cleared off the line. Rovers fashioned several more chances with Gerrard firing high and over while Ellis and Wayman both hit shots wide.

The second half saw the better early efforts come from Caversham. Watkins did well on a number of occasions to keep the scores level until it seemed that the defence was beaten by a corner and the ball ended up in the back of the net but, to Rovers relief, the ball was judged to have left play before it came back into the box.

Rovers now picked up the pace a little and worked a couple of half chances, the first saw Bourke - after some good play through the centre - stretching to get a shot in but it didn't have the power it needed. The second saw Wilkins in a similar situation where he couldn't just make the extra distance up to make the shot count.

Caversham countered well and from a throw down the right Newman found himself through on goal and he slotted past the keeper to put the visitors a goal up. The lead lasted less than three minutes though, a great cross from Wayman on the right was met by Bourke who made no mistake as he volleyed home a superb equaliser for Rovers

It looked like the game would finish a draw when, with only, a couple of minutes left, Caversham won a free kick. The ball was played into the Rovers area with good height and a simple touch with the head saw the ball in the back of the net to see Caversham run out 2-1 winners.

This weeks man of the match was, as seems usual, very well contested. The winner though, with a tremendous contribution throughout the match, was Finbar Bourke. A huge well done to you - and keep knocking 'em in like you did today!

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Bourke (55)

Scorers for Caversham: Newman (52,59)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Finbar Bourke

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

22nd October 2006

Opponents: Kennet Valley

Venue: Turnhams Farm

Kick-Off: 10:30 PM

Referee: Simon Hinsley

Final Score: Barton Rovers 2 v 3 Kennet Valley

Not fantastic weather to start the game but at least the rain was light and the ground was soft. Kennet Valley kicked off and got an early break from a corner which was headed in over the keeper. Rovers fought hard throughout the remainder of the half but it was Kennet Valley who made the better chances. A second coming from them just before half-time.

The second half saw Rovers come out looking stronger. Good early pressure forced a corner but the keeper collected easily. Continued hard work saw a Rovers break through the right-hand side of the midfield with Wayman (on his debut) slipping the ball past the keeper to peg the score back to 1-2.

The middle of the half saw some fantastic tussles through the midfield area with no team able to gain a lasting advantage. With the game moving into the last ten minutes or so Kennet Valley fashioned a good break which got through the Rovers defence to put them two goals clear again.

Rovers kept plugging away though and after some great approach work a penalty was awarded after Gerrard was brought down just inside the area. He stepped up and netted a good goal to set up a really tense finish to the game. Excellent pressure up until the final whistle kept everyone sharp but although Rovers did hit the side netting they ran out valiant losers in what was probably the best all round game this season.

This weeks man of the match was again tied and with so many good performances the decision was passed to the manager. He elected to award it to Jonathon Davies. Well done Jonathon, if the team continue to play as well as you supported then we can all look forward to some good results.

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Rose (Wayman), Gerrard (56 Pen)

Scorers for Kennet Valley: Guest (3), Howell (27), Wynt (51)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Jonathon Davies

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

15th October 2006

Opponents: Coldash

Venue: Brockhurst School

Kick-Off: 10:30 PM

Referee: Steve Laurence

Final Score: Coldash 2 v 1 Barton Rovers

At the end of the first half the scores were still nil-nil. The game played out well with both sides looking to get the upper hand but neither able to find the back of the net.

The second half saw Coldash start the stronger - drawing some good saves out of Watkins. Rovers responded well and had a great move, with Wilkins and Hinsley combining well down the left, to cross to the far post where Bourke just couldn't connect. Coldash broke the deadlock shortly after with a quick break through the centre.

Rovers changed things around and worked hard in an effort to get back into the game. Bourke fired in a corner which was only half cleared and Gerrard played the ball back into the far post where it was put in by Rose to level the match.

Both teams again worked very hard looking for an opening and with only minutes of normal time remaining Coldash scored after a bit of a scramble in front of goal. Both sides, continuing to work hard, fashioned more chances before the whistle but there were to be no more goals.

Many good performances in this game and I believe that once again the voting was close. This week it's a very big well done going to Ben Partridge who gets the award. I hope that the competition remains as fierce as this in the coming weeks!

Finally, welcome to Daniel Wayman who (when his paperwork is sorted out) will be joining the squad.

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Rose (50)

Scorers for Coldash: Unknown (38), Unknown (57)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Harry Rose

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17 Daniel Wayman

8th October 2006

Opponents: Caversham

Venue: Turnhams Farm

Kick-Off: 10:30 PM

Referee: Simon Hinsley

Final Score: Barton Rovers . . . . 0 _ _ _ _ Caversham . . . . 6

The first half was a well fought contest and while Caversham certainly had the better chances, hitting the bar twice within a minute at one point, Rovers worked really hard and kept themselves in the game. Rovers fashioned a number of good attempts, the best two by Ellis and Gerrard, but neither managed to find the back of the net.

It was after a good spell of pressure by Caversham, and several successive blocks by Rovers, that Caversham finally got the breakthrough in the run-up to half time.

The second half started with Rovers pushing forward, looking for an equaliser. A great effort from Sheldon saw his header flash wide from a corner. But it was Caversham who once again found the net after a break down the left and another goalmouth scramble.

Rovers continued working hard in an effort to get back into the game. A super run by Bourke forced a good stop from their keeper. Clarke fired wide from distance after another well worked move. Much as they tried though they were unable to break through and in pushing forward Caversham exploited the gaps left at the back to run out comfortable winners.

This week's man of the match was close again with three players receiving the same number of votes. In the end the casting vote went to the manager and Harry Rose got the nod. Very well earned this week Harry and congratulations on your progress through into district.

Scorers for Barton Rovers:

Scorers for Caversham: Wychard (23), Bellamy-Rosser (35,39,54), Thomas (45), Andrews (55)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Harry Rose

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

24th September 2006

Opponents: Thatcham Tornadoes

Venue: Turnhams Farm

Kick-Off: 11:00 PM

Referee: Simon Hinsley

Final Score: Barton Rovers . . . . 7 v 2 Thatcham Tornadoes

A fantastic morning for football, sunny - but not too hot, ground soft - but not muddy and a very gentle breeze to keep the parents cool. The Tornadoes started the game and while Rovers quickly got the ball and Rose had an early effort go wide it was Tornadoes who got the early breakthrough. A good corner went through to the back post where it was tucked crisply into the back of the net. Rovers immediately set about levelling and Wilkins almost managed a couple of minutes later but his shot sailed wide of the post.

In what proved to be an exciting game it was a run forward by Bourke which triggered the equaliser. He played a good ball out to Ellis and although his shot was blocked it was not cleared and Gerrard stepped in to slot it past the Tornadoes keeper to set the scores at one apiece. A few minutes later Ellis made a good run down the left and, from his cross, Partridge put Rovers ahead.

The game was not all one way though and plenty of defending was required on a number of occasions. Good headed clearances by Williams, some great awareness shown by Dyer to prevent danger and the wider players, Clarke and Robbins, covering a lot of ground and making some excellent tackles. Of course Watkins played his part when called upon in goal with several very loud shouts of 'Keepers' being heard by everyone as he rushed out to collect the ball.

It was after a good spell of play, by Rovers, that they won a free kick just outside the area. The ball was set up by Bourke, he made his run up, struck the ball with plenty of power and, although the keeper got his hands to it, set the scores up to 3 - 1 in Rovers favour. As the game moved towards half time more pressure by Rovers saw Partridge playing in a ball from the by-line looking to pick out another Rovers player in the box but, while it was intercepted by a defender, it was diverted into the net for an own-goal.

The start of the second half saw substitutions with Davies and Sheldon replacing Robbins and Wilkins. Tornadoes started the half the stronger and good approach work by them fashioned an effort which brought out a great save by Watkins. Rovers fought back though and after a good fast break through midfield Ellis slotted home Rovers fifth. Tornadoes returned the compliment a few minutes later with a similar quick break through the centre to narrow the lead to 5 - 2.

But as the game drew towards the final whistle Rovers continued to press forwards. Another quick break saw Gerrard net his second. In the dying minute of the game Rovers pressed again and won another corner. After what could best be described as 'pinball' it was Sheldon who had the last kick as he slammed the ball home to make the final score 7 -2.

This week's man of the match was close with several players having good games. In the end the decision was to share the award between Sam Clarke and Finbar Bourke, well done to each of you and everyone else who made the choices so difficult this week.

Scorers for Barton Rovers: Gerrard(5,58);Partridge(10);Bourke(17);OG(23);Ellis(47);Sheldon(60)

Scorers for Thatcham Tornadoes: Blackman (2), Fletcher (52)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Sam Clarke / Finbar Bourke

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

17th September 2006

Opponents: Burghfield

Venue: Mortimer West End Cricket Club

Kick-Off: 10:30 PM

Referee: James Rowe

Final Score: Burghfield . . . . 2 _ _ _ _ Barton Rovers . . . . 1

A bright start by Rovers saw an early effort by Ellis end up in the side netting before the game settled into a steady tussle with both teams working hard. Good teamwork from Rovers saw them fashion a number of efforts on goal but the Burghfield defence held firm. Towards the end of the half, after some good pressure by Rovers, a Burghfield defender looked to clear but sliced the kick and it looped over their keeper and ended in the back of their own net. A solid first half for Rovers saw them go in with a one goal lead.

The second half continued as the first had ended with strong challenges up and down the field and everybody trying to win everything. With two thirds of the second half gone Burghfield struck twice in two minutes to take back the lead. As the game entered the final ten minutes Rovers worked hard to get an equaliser but unfortunately it didn't happen. This week the man of the match went to Jordan Williams, he covered a lot of ground and was up for anything that came near him - well earned Jordan!

Scorers for Burghfield: Unknown (48), Unknown (49)

Scorers for Barton Rovers: OG (24)

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Jordan Williams

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri

10 th September 2006

Opponents: Kennet Valley A

Venue: The Elvian School

Kick-Off: 12:30 PM

Referee: Rod Howell

Final Score: Kennet Valley A 4 v 0 Barton Rovers

First game of a new season and the boys put in an good performance. The opposition were very strong and the game went backwards and forwards with some interesting tussles across the park. A possible turning point in the game came after 15 minutes when, at a goal down, Sam Clark struck an excellent looping shot which cleared the keeper then struck the far post, bounced across the face of the goal to hit the near post and was then cleared. If the ball had gone in then it would've levelled the game and maybe the result could have been different and the first half finished with Kennet Valley two goals up.

The second half saw a number of changes in positions as Rovers tried to switch things around to get back into the game. There was good evidence that communication between the team on the pitch has continued to improve with the captain, Harry Rose, marshalling well but, try as they might, the boys were unable to fashion a goal. As the game drew to a close some late efforts by Rovers almost gained a consolation but it wasn't to be. This week the man of the match went to Nick Dyer - well done - you earned it this week.

Scorers for Kennet Valley A: James Barker (13,26), Marcus Guest (37), Kieran Cox (55)

Scorers for Barton Rovers:

Barton Rovers Man of the Match: Nick Dyer

Squad Details:

1 Aaron Watkins (Goalkeeper)

2 Jack Wilkins

3 Sam Ellis

4 Harry Rose (Captain)

5 Jordan Williams

6 Nick Dyer

7 Finbar Bourke

8 Ben Partridge

9 Robert Gerrard

10 Brandon Sheldon

11 Sam Clark

12 Jonathon Davies

14 Benjamin Hinsley

15 Charlie Robbins

16 Martin Shakeri