Eagles Seniors - 09/10 Season
Letchworth Garden City Eagles F.C.
Roy and Jason
Manager Roy Boon and assistant manager Jason Valentine have set themselves the task of getting the Letchworth Eagles promotion to Herts Senior County League Premier division in their second season. Both are experienced coaches and are delighted with the progress made so far. They are still looking for new players with the right blend of skill and experience, particularly former Eagles boys, so contact Jason on 07976365594 for details of training nights.
First Team
Reserves
Match Reports
Saturday 27 February 2010 - Aubrey Cup Quarter-Final
Letchworth Garden City Eagles 1-0 Park Street Village (AET)
An extra-time own goal was enough to send Letchworth into the Aubrey Cup semi-final in a tight and tempestuous game against Premier HSCL side Park Street Village . It was without question Eagles finest hour in a very successful season so far.
Due to the heavy rain throughout the week the game was played on the all-weather surface at the Hitchin Arena, and this helped Eagles to pass the ball on the floor. Park Street did their best to make life difficult for the hosts though, by packing the midfield and attempting to impose themselves physically.
Despite having most of the first half possession, Eagles didn’t create too many chances. Plenty of crosses were helped into the box, but they were comfortably dealt with by Park Street’s burly centre halves and although Sam Gittings and Jay Drackford looked bright in the wide areas, goal scoring opportunities were limited.
Half time arrived with both teams goaless and neither keeper really tested. Eagles probably had the better of the play but could find little up front to trouble Park Street.
Eagles’ push for the breakthrough didn’t let up in the second period, and as legs began to tire, gaps started to appear in the Park Street backline. Rob Groves found himself unmarked at the far post but volleyed Drackford’s cross wide, and Joe Tyler shot narrowly over from inside the area.
Luke Garwood almost capped a terrific performance by snatching the winner with ten minutes remaining, but his looping header was cleared off the line. Jas Genesis’ header was then clawed back from underneath the bar, with some Eagles players claiming the ball had gone in. Both teams made substitutions to break the deadlock, but none succeeded.
The only goal came in the first period of extra-time. A good move down the left led to Lewis Mitchell driving in a cross which was headed into his own net by Park Street’s full back, leading to wild celebrations from the home side.
Park Street’s best chance of the game came in stoppage time, when their striker jinked inside and drilled a low shot from ten yards. Goalkeeper James Adide somehow stopped the ball with his feet, and Letchworth could breathe a sigh of relief. He pulled off a further great save to keep his goal intact and was the Eagles hero at the end of the game.
Eagles will now play local rivals Baldock Town Letchworth for a place in the final. A case of the ‘real’ Letchworth against the imposters from Baldock. Letchworth Eagles supporters are asked to turn out in force to cheer them on.HERTS SENIOR COUNTY LEAGUE DIVISION 1 -20 FEBRUARY 2010
Bushey Rangers 1-4 Letchworth Garden City Eagles
Letchworth Garden City Eagles’ trip to Bushey Rangers resulted in a comprehensive 4-1 victory for the away side, in a game totally dominated by the Eagles after the first quarter of an hour.
Although they fell behind in the opening fifteen minutes, Eagles strengthened their push for promotion by fighting back to record an important victory in truly dreadful playing conditions.
The rain the night before had turned the pitch into a bog, particularly in the central area, but this did not stop Eagles from attempting to pass the ball along the ground. Sam Gittings and David Locke were getting lots of joy down the left flank and created a chance that ended in Joe Tyler’s volley being turned over. Gittings was then denied what looked to be a blatant penalty as he turned in the box.
Bushey took the lead with their first meaningful attack of the first half. Luke Garwood slipped when trying to get back and make a challenge, and the home side’s striker fired an unstoppable shot past James Adide from ten yards.
Fears that it could be a frustrating afternoon began to set in for Eagles, especially when Gittings was denied by the post from five yards and Rob Groves long-ranger skidded wide. Eagles kept pushing down the flanks with energetic running from Sean Soards, and the equaliser eventually came on 35 minutes, when Gittings volleyed in Lewis Mitchell’s knock-down following a corner with a spectacular overhead kick from a couple of yards out..
It was to get better quickly for Eagles as they went in front a minute later. A flowing move down the left resulted in Locke crossing for Jas Genesis to powerfully head home from twelve yards. Sean Soards nearly made it 3-1, but his header came off the bar and Eagles had to be content with a one goal advantage at the break.
The second period picked up where the first had left off, and Eagles were soon out of Bushey’s sight. Rob Groves’ corner led to a scramble, and Joe Tyler pounced to stab in the third. Tyler came close soon after when his run through the centre was picked out by Gittings, only for the keeper to make a smothering save. But for an excellent performance by the home stopper Eagles would have been out of sight well before Soards made it four when he controlled Jamie Platt’s right-wing cross and lashed his shot into the roof of the net from a tight angle.
As Bushey tired Gittings volleyed a shot into the keeper’s midriff, Groves saw another effort go wide and sub Jason Drackford had a half chance, but the score stayed at a comfortable 4-1.
Eagles sit second in the league having played three games fewer than leaders Belstone, who have a three point lead. Next Saturday they take on Premier outfit Park Street Village in the Aubrey Cup at Pixmore, which will offer a real test of how the side has progressed this season.
Herts Senior County League division 1 Saturday 6 February 2010
Letchworth Garden City Eagles 2-1 Knebworth
Garwood double clinches derby victory
Letchworth Garden City Eagles fought back from a goal down to beat Knebworth by two goals to one in a lively local derby. Centre-back Luke Garwood was the hero with two vital goals that keep Eagles well in the hunt for automatic promotion.
Prior to this, Eagles had not played a league game since the first week of December and this showed during the opening exchanges. Knebworth made the livelier and more forceful start and forced Dan Eely into a few routine saves, while Eagles looked sluggish and uninspired.
The visitors were frustrating the home side with some firm challenges and good possession, using their extra man in midfield to good effect. It was no surprise when captain Bennett capitalised on hesitancy from David Locke and Dan Eely to stab in the opening goal.
Letchworth’s best moment of the first half came soon after when Sam Gittings struck the underside of the bar from six yards. It was the wingers’ final contribution however, as he then limped off with a hamstring injury. His effort was the best Eagles’ could muster in a frustrating first half, and Knebworth thoroughly deserved their lead at the break.
Eagles needed to start the second half on the front foot and soon got back in the game when Luke Garwood stabbed home from close range following Rob Groves free-kick. The linesman had raised his flag in the build up to the goal but the referee overruled his assistant and Letchworth were level.
With their early rustiness shaken off, Eagles were beginning gain a foothold in the game. They were soon ahead, and it was Garwood who struck again. Knebworth’s ‘keeper spilt Jamie Platt’s corner and Lewis Mitchell squared for his fellow defensive partner to tap in from a yard.
The remainder of the game was spent in the Knebworth half as Eagles pushed for a clincher. Joe Tyler hit the foot of the post with a bouncing volley, and then had an overhead kick cleared off the line. Rob Groves and Jamie Platt both forced the ‘keeper into superb saves with long range efforts, and Jason Drackford was denied when through on goal.
Letchworth remained untroubled despite Knebworth’s efforts, and held on for three points. They are level on points with leaders Harpenden, but have a game in hand.
This coming Saturday they play Premier division outfit Park Street Village at Letchworth in the Aubrey Cup, weather permitting.
SAT 23 JANUARY 2010 - Herts Intermediate Cup Quarter Final
Letchworth Garden City Eagles 0-0 Hemel Hempstead Reserves (AET, Hemel Hempstead Reserves won 5-4 on penalties).
In a game that had an abundance of red and yellow cards and everything but a goal, Letchworth bowed out of the Herts Intermediate Cup against a young and talented Hemel Hempstead Reserves side, but will count themselves unfortunate not to be going through to the semi-finals.
Playing their first game since mid-December was never going to be easy for Eagles, especially given the heavy playing surface, and this was reflected by the lack of clear goal scoring opportunities in the first half. Eagles thought they should have had a penalty as the half came to a close though, when Jas Genesis was tripped by the oncoming Hemel goalkeeper. However, the referee took a different view of the incident and booked the forward for diving.
Lewis Mitchell and Luke Garwood marshalled the Eagles backline superbly, restricted their supposedly superior opponents to one close range effort on goal, which was stopped by the reactions of Dan Eely in goal. Paul McGinnety then embarked on a lengthy burst forward and found Sean Soards, but the returning cross went just behind the right-back.
The second half started with a scare for Eagles as Eely let a weak shot slip through his fingers, only to see the ball bounce just past the post. Joe Tyler then tricked his way through at the other end, but his lobbed effort dipped just over the bar.
Wingers Sam Gittings and Marcus Brown began to find more space as the game opened up and the lively Soards was causing problems with his link up play. Eagles’ chances were increased on 75 minutes when a Hemel midfielder was sent off for violent conduct in a mid field confrontation with Jay Drackford who received a yellow card.
With minutes of normal time remaining, captain Lewis Mitchell had a golden chance to win the game but he turned a left footed shot over from six yards.
During extra-time Letchworth’s lack of match fitness began to show. They were able to carve out one last opportunity when Gittings’ deep left-wing cross found substitute Jamie Platt unmarked at the far post, but his side footed volley went over. Platt did not let his head drop though, and his endeavours drew a foul from a Hemel defender who was then given his second yellow card and marching orders.
Despite Eagles’ two man advantage, it was Hemel that had the best chance to win the game. With virtually the last kick of extra-time, a winger broke through but Dan Eely got a foot on his low shot, and the ball trickled just wide with the Hemel bench already celebrating.
The winners were to be decided on penalties. Joe Tyler, Rob Groves, Luke Garwood and Sean Soards all slotted their spot-kicks away, as did their opposite numbers from Hemel. Jay Drackford then saw his kick saved to the ‘keepers left, and Hemel converted their last effort to clinch a last four place.
Eagles’ attentions now turn back to the league, where they will be looking to regain top spot against Allenburyson away on Saturday.
Saturday 12 December -
Herts Intermediate Cup Round 3
Letchworth Garden City Eagles 4-1 Bishops Stortford Swifts
It has often been said that the form book goes out the window for cup games, but Letchworth didn’t take notice of this old adage as they knocked out the holders Bishops Stortford Swifts out of the Herts Intermediate Cup, and progressed to the quarter finals.
The tricky playing surface at Pixmore meant Eagles found it more difficult than usual to pass the ball, but they still managed to create a number of goalscoring opportunities in the first half. Sam Gittings twice found himself in good positions early on, but produced tame efforts that failed to test the goalkeeper.
It was Gittings however, that was at the heart of the first goal. He combined with David Locke down the left and crossed for Sean Soards. His shot was blocked, but it fell nicely for Jas Genesis who tapped the ball home.
It was 2-0 soon after: Soards headed a Marcus Brown cross back across goal, and Joe Tyler was there to slide the ball into the net. Soards then got in on the act himself, striking a low 20-yard shot through a crowd of players and in off the post.
Dan Eely was then called into action for the only time in the half when he tipped over a long range effort that was destined for the top corner.
In the second period, Eagles managed to keep up their tempo and continued to forge chances. Rob Groves – trying to pick up from where he left last week – looped a 30 yard effort into the keepers arms, and sub Jay Drackford turned in the box but sliced his shot wide.
Eagles were caught out with around 15 minutes remaining when David Locke’s pass was intercepted, and the Swifts’ striker attacked the near post to squeeze in an effort.
This acted as a wake up call for Eagles and moments later, Soards headed home Gittings’ cross to round off a magnificent flowing move from the halfway line, for his second and Letchworth’s fourth. Eagles continued to press but neither side created opportunities in the last 10 minutes as the game petered out, with Eagles down to 10 men after Paul McGinnity limped off with all the subs on the field.
Eagles return to league action at home next week when they look to inflict revenge on Old Parmentarians, who handed them one of their two league defeats earlier this season at their ground.
Herts Senior County League division 1
Sarratt 0 Letchworth Garden City Eagles 4
Letchworth produced one of their best performances of the season to dispatch of mid-table Sarratt, and return to the top of the Herts Senior Counties League first division and avenge a 1-0 home defeat earlier in the season..
The excellent playing surface helped Eagles to play their usual passing game, which meant they were able to create chances from the outset of the game. Rob Groves shot narrowly wide from 30 yards and Joe Tyler failed to make significant contact with Sam Gittings low cross after a well-worked counter attack.
The hold-up play and movement of strikers Jas Genesis and Sean Soards was proving to be a real handful for the Sarratt back line, and it was good pressure from Soards that led to the opening goal. He forced the home keeper into a weak clearance which fell to Marcus Brown who returned a firm shot from well out to make it 1-0.
Soards then headed wide from a corner, while Tyler had a long range effort tipped wide. The high defensive line Eagles were forcing meant keeper Dan Eely was largely untroubled by the home attack for the entirety of the first half, but despite their dominance, they had to be content with a one goal lead at the break.
Letchworth were able to pick up from where they left off in the second half, and Soards should have made it two when he arrived late at the back post, but he couldn’t apply the finishing touch to Gittings’ cross.
The second goal was somewhat eluding Letchworth, but when it eventually did arrive it was worth the wait. Rob Groves picked the ball up 30 yards from goal, took a touch to steady himself and drove a firm shot over the head of the Sarratt ‘keeper.
If the second goal dampened Sarratt spirits, the third wrapped the game up. Soards broke down the right hand side and cut back for Tyler. The cross was slightly behind the midfielder, but he brought it under control and turned, then lashed a firm shot into the top corner from 10 yards.
A terrific counter attacking move led to the fourth goal: Dan Eely distributed to David Locke from a corner, he passed to Gittings who in turn found Groves. Once again, he shifted the ball to his favoured left side, and curled another beauty into the top corner.
It could have been worse for Sarratt had the referee spotted a blatant handball on the line, but Letchworth were happy to settle for a four goal victory.
Next week, Letchworth host Bishop Stortford Swifts in the Herts Intermediate Cup quarter final at Pixmore.Herts Senior County League division 1 - 21 November 2009
Hatfield Town 2-3 Letchworth Garden City Eagles
Eagles’ short trip to Hatfield pitted the league leaders against a young and resilient side who played decent football in spells, but never had the cutting edge to regularly get beyond the league leaders’ back four.
Injuries took their toll again for Eagles, with five absentees from regular first team duty. However, the men in the starting eleven didn’t let manager Jason Valentine down, and could easily have found themselves several goals up within the opening period of the game.
Jay Drackford had three good opportunities to score before he opened the scoring in the first half. When it came, it was in unlikely style: his corner kick deceived the goalkeeper and went straight in. Eagles were unlucky not to ad to their score before the break as Mitch Crook’s pace caused Hatfield’s inexperienced backline problems, and Sam Gittings and Jamie Platt produced lively performances on the wings.
However, Eagles had to wait until midway through the second half before doubling their advantage. Crook, Drackford and Sean Soards had all missed simple chances before Sam Gittings headed in Rob Groves’ cross to make it 2-0.
Gittings then levelled himself with Drackford in the scoring charts for the season after he sprung the offside trap and side footed the ball in from close range to make it three nil, though he owed thanks to his teammate for the pass.
Hatfield looked down and out, but were given a lifeline when a well worked passing move caught out Eagles’ defence and they pulled a goal back from close range. Then, in the first minute of stoppage time, a freakish deflection saw the ball sail over Dan Eely’s head to reduce the deficit to one goal.
Despite the late scare, Eagles only had to endure one more minute, and held on to secure another win. Despite the victory, they dropped a place to second in the league, due to Bushey’s one superior goal difference, though Eagles have a game in hand.
Next week they host bottom side Walkern, who are without a win all season, but Eagles can take no team for granted and will need to continue their recent good form.Herts Intermediate Cup
Baldock Town Letchworth Reserves 0-3 Letchworth Garden City Eagles
Despite the terrible playing conditions in pouring rain and the absence of key players ,Letchworth Garden City Eagles produced some good football and convincingly brushed aside the challenge of Baldock Town Letchworth Reserves to progress to the Herts Intermediate Cup third round, winning by three goals to nil
There was speculation the game would be postponed due to the heavy rain and swirling winds, but both teams put this to the back of their minds and tried to play the ball on the floor, while there was also an element of physicality about the game, with some heavy challenges flying in at times.
The first half was fairly tight and even contested, with both sides having one good chance to score. Eagles’ best opportunity came when they worked into a good position down the left flank, and Sam Gittings laid off for Sean Soards to shoot, but his close range effort was cleared off the line. Dan Eely then saved Eagles at the other end, spectacularly tipping a header round the post after a corner.
The first half finished goal-less but Eagles coach Roy Boon’s half-time words sprung his troops into life. In the opening period of the second half, Rob Groves hit the crossbar, while a sweeping move saw Jay Drackford’s effort saved. The deadlock was soon broken however, when Drackford finished from inside the area.
The lead was soon doubled by Sam Gittings. Rob Groves cross-field pass was latched onto by the left-winger and he calmly slotted under the ‘keeper.
The goal seemed to knock the life out of Baldock, as the remainder of the game was played inside their half. Luke Garwood, who was captain for the day in place of injured Lewis Mitchell, slid in at the far post to make it three, after Soards had headed down Groves free kick.
Letchworth return to league action next week, with a trip to mid-table AFC Hatfield.
Herts Senior County League division 1
Letchworth Eagles go top Letchworth Garden City Eagles 5-0 Kimpton Rovers
Letchworth climbed to the summit of the Herts Senior Counties league Division One, after a comprehensive victory over lower-mid-table Kimpton Rovers. The win puts them above Bushey Rangers on goal difference.
Eagles made easy work of an unadventurous Kimpton side, and started on the front foot. Joe Tyler twice headed over after breaking into the box from midfield, while Luke Garwood had a similar effort cleared off the line from a corner.
As ever, Eagles looked dangerous from set-pieces, and it was this method that brought them the opener. Paul McGennity, playing in his more favoured centre half role rather than at full back, volleyed in Sean Soards’ corner to open his account for the season.
Jas Genesis and Den Crook both had good efforts saved by the ‘keeper, but Eagles had to be content with a single goal advantage at the break.
They second half continued in much the same vein, and it always seemed likely that Eagles were going to add to their advantage sooner rather than later. The goal eventually came from Rob Groves, who lashed in emphatically after good build up play from Tyler and Mitch Crook.
A double substitution saw Lewis Mitchell and Sam Gittings introduced, and they combined well to set up Den Crook for the third. The seventeen year old midfielder headed home for his first of the season. An overdue goal, but thoroughly deserved.
Gittings himself then got in on the act by stooping to nod in a right-wing cross and Sean Soards completed the scoring by going round the ‘keeper to make it five.
Letchworth’s defence were untroubled for the entire game, with ‘keeper Dan Eely a virtual spectator. It was as convincing a victory as any likely to be achieved this season and could have been even more emphatic with better finishing in the first half.
On Saturday 14 November the Eagles play local rivals Baldock Letchworth FC reserves in the Herts Intermediate Cup at the Grange Recreation Ground Letchworth, which should be a great local derby and a good test of what has been achieved over the short period the Eagles have been playing in senior football..
Herts Senior County League 31 October 2009
Buntingford Town 2-3 Letchworth Garden City Eagles
Letchworth produced a superb comeback against a resilient Buntingford Town – coming from 2-0 down to snatch a late but deserved victory.
Eagles had been expected to brush aside their lowly opponents with far more conviction that they did. Buntingford have not won in the league this season, and despite Eagles’ confidence being high after last week’s win over Bedmond, they started sluggishly, finding themselves two down inside fifteen minutes.
They first conceded when a long ball caught out the defence, and a Buntingford advanced on keeper Dan Eeley to finish. Moments later Rob Groves miss-controlled deep inside his own half and another confident finish led to the second.
Eagles did start to create chances in the attacking third of the pitch, but found Buntingford’s goal living a charmed life. Twice the ball was cleared off the line after efforts from Jay Drackford and Joe Tyler, and the post also saved the home side when Sam Gittings flicked on a long ball.
Just before the half-time whistle, Gittings did find the net, heading in Mitch Crook’s cross after a flowing move, to bring Eagles back into the game.
Letchworth forced over 20 corners throughout the 90 minutes, but efforts from centre back pairing Lewis Mitchell and Luke Garwood were repelled one way or another. The lively Jas Genesis then volleyed wide from outside the box, as Eagles began the second half how they finished the first.
When the equaliser a eventually arrived, it came with a good dose of luck: a Gittings cross was headed into his own net by a Buntingford midfielder, and Eagles had ten minutes to find a winner.
Letchworth thought they were awarded a penalty when the referee pointed to the spot after Drackford was felled, but the linesman had spotted an earlier offside. It did not matter, however, as Eagles eventually found the winner their efforts deserved. Tyler set Gittings free down the left and his shot took a wicked deflection, to trickle over the line and grab the three points for Letchworth.
Herts Senior County League 24 October 2009
Letchworth Garden City Eagles 5-1 Bedmond S & S
After losing their last league game, Letchworth needed to pick up three points in this top-of-the-table clash against Bedmond S & S, and they did so in some style.
Letchworth sat just one point above their opponents at the start of play, but they looked leagues apart for most of the game. Eagles created several early chances, two of which were spurned by Sam Gittings. Sean Soards and Jas Genesis also had efforts off target.
The breakthrough came when Joe Tyler volleyed in from close range after Lewis Mitchell had headed down a corner. It stayed at 1-0 until the break but should have been more.
It didn’t take long for Eagles to extend their lead however. Sean Soards cleverly chipped the ball over the oncoming ‘keeper to double the advantage. Soards then turned provider as he crossed for Tyler to head in his second of the game and make it 3-0.
Bedmond were offered a lifeline when Eagles ‘keeper Dan Eeley brought down their striker in the area with the resulting penalty being smashed home. However Jay Drackford soon restored the three goal advantage by finishing off from close range after good work from Gittings.
Bedmond were down and out by now, and Rob Groves curled in a free kick to make it five, and rub salt into their wounds. Mitch Crook was unlucky not to get on the score sheet after having a goal disallowed, but the 5-1 scoreline was a fair enough reflection on Letchworth’s performance.
Herts Intermediate Cup Round 1
Letchworth Garden City Eagles 4-0 Lemsford Reserves
Letchworth returned to winning ways with a comprehensive four goal victory over an unambitious Lemsford Reserves side.
The game was one way traffic from the kick off, with the returning Sean Soards twice going close with close range efforts. This was before Sam Gittings opened the scoring with a bouncing volley after Joe Tyler’s lay off. Tyler then had a header cleared off the line.
Eagles continued to create chances, and it wasn’t long before number two arrived. Rob Groves, who’s passing was excellent all afternoon, set Gittings free down the left, his low cross was finished by centre half Luke Garwood who had stayed forward after a set piece.
Soards then got in on the act himself when he followed up Jay Drackford’s saved effort to fire home. Then Gittings got his second by sweeping in with his weaker right foot. It was 4-0 at the break.
Letchworth were camped in Lemsford half for the entire second half, but could not add to the scoreline. Tyler, Gittings and Soards were guilty of wasting chances before Jas Genesis’ header was disallowed.
Mitch Crook came on to replace Drackford with 20 minutes remaining and livened up proceedings with an eye-catching display on the right wing, but result stayed at 4-0. Eagles are due to play local rivals Baldock Town Letchworth in the next round.
HERTS SENIOR COUNTY LEAGUE
Old Parmiterians 3-0 Letchworth Garden City Eagles
Letchworth’s good recent form came to an abrupt end after a surprising 3-0 defeat to lowly Old Parmiterians.
Despite dominating the match for long periods, Eagles could not find the breakthrough due to the outstanding form of the Parmiterians ‘keeper, and some poor finishing of their own.
From the whistle, Eagles peppered their opponents with shots on goal. Sam Gittings pulled a shot wide before Joe Tyler’s header was blocked by the keeper. Rob Groves had a chance when he got on the end of Drackford’s cut back but his shot was saved.
A series of corners still couldn’t lead to the breakthrough as Den Crook headed wide. Groves then had an effort cleared off the line and then saw another crash off the bar, and Jas Genesis blazed a half-chance over.
Parmiterians then took the lead with their first real attack. A free-kick was not cleared by Eagles, and a shot was deflected in after Dan Eeley had saved an initial effort.
The second half started in the same vein as the first had finished – more Eagles pressure. Den Crook’s diving header went over, Drackford had a goal disallowed for a foul on the ‘keeper and Tyler’s free-kick was tipped round the post.
Parmiterians’ goal was living a charmed life, never more so than when top scorer Drackford saw his close range volley somehow tipped over.
With twenty minutes remaining, Eagles changed to 3-4-3, but this only helped Parmiterians. Gaps at the back led to the second and third goals. First, a mix-up led to Eeley being chipped, then a far post volley wrapped things up.
Letchworth GCE Reserves 1 Cuffley 0
First divison Cuffley visited Pixmore in the 1st round of the league cup. This weeks report is going to remain short and sweet to save getting into trouble. The winning goal was scored by Kyle Davidson with 20 minutes to go after a good eagles move starting with Jimmy the keeper and with a Webb cross to Kyle to who finished well. There was still time for Jimmy to make a match winning save to keep Letchworth in front.
Aubrey Cup Round Two - Debden Sports 1-5 Eagles
Letchworth continued their good form with a convincing 5-1 Aubrey Cup victory over Debden Sports on Saturday 3 October.
Eagles started the game at a thrilling pace, and were 3-0 up inside the first ten minutes. Mitch Crook hit the first after latching onto a wind-assisted goal kick and lobbing over the goalkeeper. Sean Soards scored the second, arriving in the box to finish Jay Drackford’s cut back via the post.
Drackford then got in on the act himself, capitalising on some hesitant defending to roll into an empty net.
Several more chances came Eagles way in the first half, with Jamie Platt shooting narrowly off target.
Eagles were given a scare at the start of the second half when a defensive mix up led to Debden being given a route back into the game via a penalty. Dan Eeley was sent the wrong way from the spot and it was 3-1.
Soon after another spot kick was awarded Debden, when some shirt tugging was spotted by the referee. Fortunately for Eagles, the Debden player blazed his second spot kick over the bar.
It proved to be a costly miss and act as a wakeup call for Eagles. Crook’s back heel set up Drackford for his second moments later, and Eagles three goal advantage was restored.
Eagles coasted through the remainder of the game, and there was even time for Drackford to notch his hat trick with the goal of the game. Sub Luke Garwood’s ball over the top was emphatically volleyed in to put a gloss on the final score.Letchworth GCE 1 Standon and Puckeridge 2
The Joys and Pains of the beautiful game. Standon turned up at 2.50 for a 2.30 kick off. At least they turned up the same cannot be said of a number of the Eagles players. Letchworth took the lead after 5 minutes thorough Webb who is continuing his fluke of the season campaign. From here on in the Standon team dominated the game and levelled in the 18th minute.
With 15 minutes to go Standon got there deserved winner and it was a relief when the ref blew the whistle for full time.
I suppose everybody is allowed a bad day. Saturday sees a 2pm ko v Cuffley in the league cup. Thanks to those who came up and supported the team.
Letchworth Eagles FC V Hinton FC
Eagles continue winning ways with a 3-2 win against Hinton.
Eagles faced a tough physical Hintons side, 5th in the league after a good start to their campaign.
An early chance went to Letchworth as the Hinton keeper tipped Sam Gittings attempt over the bar, but play swung from end to end. After Lewis Mitchell made a descent clearance from a dangerous Hinton attack, goalie Dan Eeley was called into action pushing the ball onto the cross bar. Hinton then went close to getting the first goal from the resulting corner.
From the next corner Eagles conceded a poor goal when an unmarked Hinton player was able to turn with the ball and smash it into the net from inside the penalty area.
Eagles then responded with a spell of pressure, and from Sam Gitting's cross, Lewis Mitchell headed the equalizer. Soon after, a free kick was chipped in finding Luke Garwood's head to put the Eagles 2-1 up, and for the rest of the half Eagles defended their lead and managed to hold on to their 2-1 advantage despite Hinton hitting the post just before the break.
In the second half Eagles were soon on the offensive and Sam Gittings almost succeeded in finding the net with an early attempt, but the game became tight and a bit scrappy as Hinton levelled the score at 2-2 from a free kick 12 yards out, which was hit hard and low and was deflected into the net.
Hinton then enjoyed a good spell forcing Eagles to defend well, but after letting a few chances go begging, Eagles finally broke the deadlock when Jay Drackford smashed the ball into the net to put the Eagles 3-2 up.
Eagles controlled the last 10 minutes to see time out and another well earned 3 points enabled them to rise to second place in division 1.
Date of next home fixture 17 October v Lemsford Reserves in the Herts Intermediate Cup.
Herts County Cup Round 1
Potten End 1 Letchworth Garden City Eagles Res 4
The Reserves travelled to Hemel Hempstead down to the bare bones. Due to injury and work. The changing rooms where cerainly not inviting and something I have not witnessed before in over 2000 games a goal with 3 nets joined together!
It looked like it was going to be one of those days a strong physical team trying to out muscle a footballing team. But the football team finally made the breakthough with Tony Webb adding another contender for fluke of the season scoring direct from a corner in the 30th minute.
Letchworth where fully in control of the game with chances being created and missed but Scott Platt mishit cross ended up in the net after 56 minutes 2-0. Eagles took their foot of the gas and with 20 minutes to go let Potten back in. Less then 60 seconds later Kyle made it 3-1and with 4 minutes to go the same player made it 4-1 and the Eagles progress to round 2.
This Saturday sees a big game at Pixmore when top of the table Standon and Puckeridge visit. So if your free at 3pm this Saturday come along and support the team as we aim to keep up our bright start to the season.
19 SEPTEMBER - BELSTONE v LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY EAGLES
HERTS SENIOR COUNTY LEAGUE DIV 1 - Eagles beat high flying Belstone 3-2
League newcomers Belstone have made a great start to the season but were no match for a resurgent Eagles side in a very closely fought game at Belstone.
Within a minute of the start Eagles had the ball in the net from a Joe Tyler header, but it was disallowed by the referee for an infringement unseen by players or spectators alike.
Belstone soon hit back forcing Eagles goalie Jimmy Adide to a smart save, and play swung from end to end with chances to both sides. Belstone pressed hard, and although Paul McGennity defended well with some critical clearances, they took the lead after some slack work at the back of the Eagles defence.
Eagles fought back with a Sam Gittings shot that flew into the side netting before the score was levelled by Sean Soards after the keeper spilled a shot from Jason Drackford. Eagles then took the lead when a free kick was headed back out to Jason Drackford who skilfully turned a defender and smacked the ball into the net from 18 yards.
In the last minute of the first half Belstone drew level again after another defensive error and the half finished all square at 2-2 and spectators and player alike needing a rest.
The second half started with play from end to end with some good crosses from Jamie Platt before Sam Gittings eventually headed one home. The game continued at a great pace with both sides having chances. Jan Genesis almost successfully lobbed the ball over the Belstone keeper before Paul Mc Gennity had to clear the ball off the Eagles line in the last 5 minutes.
Eagles managed to hang on to their lead to win 3-2 with probably their best performance of the season so far.
LGCE Reserves 5 Lemsford Res 2
Letchworth went into this game without their regular goalkeeper who was on first time duty and after 3 minutes found themselves 1-0 down as the team had not got started. Two minutes later and the Eagles day got worse when captain Watson went off injured. Without another centre back available a reshuffle was needed with Raj and Platt making debuts in central defence.
In the 18th minute A blistering run down the wing by G and a pinpoint cross was kindly put away by the lemsford defender.
The match then went into a major lull with nothing happening of any note until the 72nd minute. A great ball from Mitchell Cox who was making his first start of the season found Ollie Manning on the edge of the box who turned and buried the ball in back of the net. 2-1 Eagles
Five minutes from time Manning burst free down the wing and pulled the ball back to the edge of the box to Wilkinson whose tireless hard work in the four games was finally rewarded with a goal and it was worth the wait. Letchworth thought the job was done but Lemsford had other ideas and quickly made it 3-2 in the 89th minute.
The Eagles where rattled and added two more goals thanks to Isaac David who teased the Lemsford defence and calmly made it 4-2. There was still time for Ollie Manning to whip in another cross for Davidson to head home.
Despite the good scoreline there is still plenty more to come from this young Eagles side.Letchworth Eagles Home to Sarratt 12th Sept 2009
Eagles lose their unbeaten record in Herts Senior County League
Letchworth Eagles were unlucky to lose their unbeaten record against a solid Sarratt team after spurning a number of good chances to score, particularly in the first half of the game.
In Eagles first attack great cross resulted in Lewis Mitchell almost getting on a header at the far post, and play swung from end to end. After about 10 minutes Sarratt managed to get the ball into the net from a corner only for the goal to be cancelled out for hand ball.
A Sam Gittings volleyed through ball found Mitchell Crook who needed an extra touch, and lost the chance, and soon after Lewis Mitchell's excellent long ball found Sean Soards in space but again he failed to get the final killer touch. Chances continued to come Eagles’ way with a Sam Gittings cross and Den Crook strike going well over, a long range effort from Mitchell Crook went close, and a Sean Soards back heel put Den Crook clear on goal, but he failed to strike the ball cleanly and the chance was lost. A Jazz Genesis close range shot was hit straight at the keeper, and against the run of play, from Sarratt's second corner, an un-marked player headed into the back of the net, to put Sarratt 0-1 up.
Eagles failed to take any of their many chances and half time were left 0-1 down and wondering why they were not 4 or 5 goals ahead.
Sarratt started the 2nd half the better side, although most of the play was in the centre of the field, before Lewis Mitchell conceded a penalty with a mistimed tackle. Dan Eeley made an excellent save, but Sarratt continued to press for the second goal with a series of corners.
Eagles did have their chances in the last quarter of the game with Den Crook's header going just wide from a Danny Large free kick and a Jazz Genesis 's strike straight at the keeper. Eagles upped the tempo winning 3 consecutive corners, but Sarratt survived goal attempts from sub Jason Drackford, Sam Gittings and sub Jamie Platt.
Final Score 0 - 1
Eagles had lost their first game, because of not taking any of their many chances throughout the game.
Reserves return to winning ways.
Knebworth Reserves 0 Letchworth GCE Reserves 3
After last weeks disappointment the reserves made the short trip up the A1M to Knebworth. This time coming home with all the points. Things did not start well with two players pulling up in the warm up. So the management had to change the team.
The game started and their where no real chances in the opening 20 minutes. In the 23rd minute Surinder set Tony Webb free down the left wing. Webby then crossed the ball into the box from the corner flag and somehow the ball sailed in at the far post for an early contention for fluke of the season. Frankly who cares.
7 minutes later a huge punt up field sailed over the Knebworth keepers head and the hard working Tom Wilkinson was about to pull the trigger before being taken down by the keeper. Penalty was given and Kyle converted.
The Letchworth players where reminded at half time that we had the lead last week and threw the points away. Letchworth dominated the 2nd half but only converted one more chance a cross from Kyle was TAPPED in by Conor Finan. Or in his words to me on facebook "a cool, calm and collected finish".
6 September Eagles face a stiff test but win at home 2-0
Eagles hosted top of the table Bushey Rangers who had previously won 5 out of 5, so with the Eagles and them being the only un-beaten sides in the League it was bound to be a hard fought contest. The game was tight, and Bushey had the first chance, hitting the bar from a corner kick. After that early shock Eagles livened up and Marcus Brown played a lovely through ball to Sean Soards who found Mitch Crook whose his effort hit the cross bar. Eventually a J. Genesis low strike was spilled by the keeper and there was Sean Soards tapping in to go 1 - 0 up. He nearly made it two after getting on the end of a Sam Gittings corner, before a Mitch Crook low cross was put out for a corner. His header from a Gitting’s cross was then well saved by the Bushey keeper.
Eagles had managed to keep Bushey Rangers out of the game, and limited to just a couple of attacks, but they were a strong physical side, and the contest remained open at half time. Eagles passing football gave them the upper hand, and the second half again saw plenty of chances for the Eagles, with a Gittings header saved, and Mitch Crook should have scored with a one on one with the keeper. Finally Lewis Mitchell's free kick, hit hard and low, beat the Bushey keeper to make it 2-0 and gave some breathing space. Bushey did go close from a corner, with Paul McGennity clearing, but at the other end Mitch Crook had a great strike brilliantly saved, and following Platty's neat touch Sean Soards hit the post.
A well deserved victory and Eagles are now the only side un-beaten in division 1 .
M O M Sean Soards
Harpenden Reserves 3 Letchworth GCE reserves 2
Both teams went into this game having won their opening game on the opening weekend of the season. Unfortunately the home team maintained there 100% record. Harpenden where are strong physical side who bullied their way to victory (in a fair manner). A number of Letchworth players did not fancy it.
Harpenden dominated the early part of the game but it was the Eagles who took the lead thanks to the man in black. A Harpenden clearance deflected off the ref to an Eagles player who fed Conor Finan who made it two goals in two.
In the 23rd minute Eagles got a free kick 30 yards out and Tony Webb hit a thunderbolt freekick that put the visitors 2-0 up - thankfully nobody got in the way of the ball as they would have been knocked out.
In the 35th minute Conor Finan had a goal ruled out for offside which looked tight but I could not see from my angle but with my Blue and Black glasses on he was clearly onside lol.
Letchworth had to take off the captain just before half time with a slight injury and this probably cost us the game.
On the stroke of half-time Harpenden made it 2-1. It looked like a foul on the keeper but the Ref gave the goal.
Harpenden pulled level early in the 2nd half. Some fine saves and some brave goalkeeping from Jimmy kept the scores level. Letchworth made their final change with 20 minutes to go with Manning replacing the hard working Wilkinson.
With the game looking like ending in a draw a lapse in concentration at the back in the 97th minute Harpenden took all 3 points.
Eagles continue winning ways Sat 29th August away to Walkern Rangers.
Walkern Rangers, formerly known as Bedwell Rangers, were hoping for a bright beginning under their new name and colours but met an Eagles team bang in form and hungry for more goals. Within two minutes Platty placed a through pass to Mitch Crook who beat the keeper to put the Eagles 1 - 0 up. It was chance after chance, and not long before Marcus Brown picked up the ball from the half way line, one two with Mitch Crook and Brown netted the second 0-2. It got even better when Gurdip Kandola made an excellent cross, which the keeper spilled, and Soards had an easy tap in to make it 3-0. Soards then went close with a header, and Mitch Crooks managed to hit over the bar from 6 yards, G again the supplier. Large's ball over the top found M. Crooks one on one with the keeper, he chipped the ball over the keeper only to hit the cross bar, and put the rebound over from 2 yards out.
Half time 3-0 up but it should have been more. Still, early in the second half Eagles were soon 4-0 up following a lovely one touch flowing move from the back involving Large, Platty, Soards, and Mitch Crook with his 2nd goal of the game.
As in previous games Eagles then seemed to lose their concentration and Walkern managed to pull one Back 1-4. Marcus Brown's free kick was passed square for Platty to slice wide, a chance to Soards went wide, who then put the ball over the bar from a Jay Duguid chest down. As Eagles missed their chances Walkern took advantage and rounded off the scoring to make it 2-4.
Not the best of games, but an important 3 points to put the Eagles 3rd in the table, with 3 wins and a draw.
Letchworth GCE Reserves 4 Buntingford Cougars 2
The reserves season started at Pixmore with a fixture vs near neighbours Buntingford. Letchworth started brightly creating chances without really making the keeper work and Buntingford doing the same at the other end. It took 27 minutes before Letchworth finally scored a superb defence splitting pass from Surinder Raj set up Conor Finan who passed the ball into the goal. Four minutes later Kyle Davidson crossed a great ball into Tony Webb who had the simple job of putting ball into empty net.
Half time 2-0 to Letchworth
Two minutes into second half and Buntingford's half time talk had woken them up it was 2-1. This goal woke the Eagles up and Tom Wilkinson was fouled in the box and a clear penalty was awarded. Gary Watson the team captain converted. In the 55 minute the game was back on as the Cougars made it 3-2.
Some great saves from Jimmy kept the eagles in front before a counter attack from the Eagles and the blistering pace of Ollie Manning making it 4-2.
Another pleasing thing about today's result was the fact that 6 of the starting 11 had all played for the youth set up at some stage in their younger days and four of the subs likewise.
26 Aug - EAGLES HIT FIVE AGAINST WHITWELL
Wed 26th August and our 2nd Home game of the season V Whitwell AFC, who are new to Herts County League this season, the Eagles expecting nothing less than 3 points with the bad start to Whitwell's campaign so far.
It didn't take long for Letchworth to settle, an excellent through ball for DenCrook, Gittings getting hold, twisting his marker, and firing low into the back of the net, 1 - 0 up with 6 minutes gone. After 10 mins Eagles were awarded a penalty when J. Genesis was brought down. Jason Drackford stepped up to score, only for the penalty having to be retaken because Platty had wandered into the penalty area. Lucky for him that although Whitwell's keeper saved the 2nd penalty, Drackford managed to get on the rebound to make it 2 - 0.
Drackford made it 3 - 0 after 18 minutes, and it looked as if double figures might be possible as Eagles continued to press, and after some nice link up one touch play Platty, Brown and Gittings almost scored.
Whitwell were limited in their attacks and the half finished 3 - 0.
The second half started slowly for the Eagles but they had the first attacks, a J. Genesis low cross almost met with Platty sliding in at the far post. David Locke also had a chance go close. Eagles seemed to have switched off when Whitwell's No.11 left the back four standing to slot home 3 – 1, and minutes later an excellent through ball and it was 3-2.
After words from the touchline it wasn't long before Eagles restored their advantage, Soards scoring from a cross from Danny Large making it 4-2, Although Whitwell did get another chance, Dan Eeley making an excellent save one on one, palming the ball out, and managing to get back to stop a second attempt, Eagles could have had a few more with Mikel Parkash going close, and a Mitch Crook strike just tipped over the bar. Finally Danny Large had the last say finishing to make it 5-2.
M.O.M. David Locke.
Eagles get first win of the new season
Eagles first Home fixture of the new season, hosting St.Peter's from Lemsford was an opportunity to get poits after a poor league start by the visitors...
Various chances went Eagles way from the off, Gittings hitting the post, Mitch Crook,s header failed to find the net and then Eagles took the lead with Sam Gittings getting a suburb cross from the left, and Jason Drackford heading in from 6 yards.
Centre Backs McGennity and Brown were comfortable dealing with the odd attack form St. Peters. Holt was booked for a late tackle, and from the resulting free kick, st Peter's fired well wide, just after their best chance when with a nice through ball clear on goal, McGennity managed to clear our lines.
A half chance from D. Crook was well saved, who also put a great ball through for Drackford to strike straight at the keeper. So 1-0 up at half time, again we should have been 3 or 4 up.
The 2nd half was a scrappy affair, and no real chances until later on when Soards shot well over from 18 yards, couple of crosses from Platty failed to find a target, and finally the best chance fell to Jazz Genesis whose placed shot was cleared off the line.
It got very tense with 10 to go and St Peter's putting on the pressure, with Eagles giving away a couple of free kicks. McGennity had to defend well to keep out a St Peter's forward. And the final whistle was a great relief.
Man of the Match; Paul McGennity for excellent defending through out the game.
Thanks to our Sponsors
"We are pleased to see senior football return
to the Garden City after a number of years and
wish the Eagles all the very best for the forthcoming season."
Stuart Kenny
Director General,
Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation