Denton Town 7 Droylsden 2 L/cup U12's

The scoreline may appear emphatic and the supporters may have been delirious at the final whistle but the stakes are high now and the coaching staff are raising the standards they expect from the girls. This was indeed an eye-catching result and there were some tremendous individual contributions yet it was made clear to the players after the contest that there are still areas of their performance that they need to strive to improve upon in the forthcoming weeks in readiness for the challenge awaiting them in the cup final.

Perhaps Nigel, Pete, Amy and I are being slightly too harsh in directing any criticism towards the team, after all they have produced a quite breathtaking sequence of results in 2008, however we all have faith in the ability of this set of girls and hold aspirations for them to produce their best football on a consistent basis and compete for more and more silverware.

Whilst the irrepressible Lauren was an absentee this morning the squad was boosted by the return from injury of Grace, eased back into the fold from the substitutes bench. Kendall, proving her flexibility once again, filled the vacant left midfield spot with Georgia, buoyed by a
superb display in midweek training, moved into the central role.

Denton made a stunning start, breaking forward from the kick-off with Kay cutting in from the left and crossing for Kylie to divert the ball in at the far post. Kay continues to constantly menace opposition defences with her willingness to dribble and her desire to score goals. She was destined to add to her seasons tally with a 4 goal haul in this match and a further 2 assists; an accomplishment that is to be applauded and inevitably earned her player of the match from Droylsden. Denton maintained the fast pace to the opening minutes and found themselves further ahead through Kay and then Kendall, who ghosted in unmarked at the far post to finish from Kay's low cross.

Droylsden finished bottom of the league table and also prop up the final position in the cup competition but they have shown a definite improvement in their results in recent weeks and contained a few dangerous players in their line-up who displayed much quality. In the closing
stages of the first half and certainly for the opening 7 or 8 minutes of the second Denton lost concentration and allowed their opponents a glimmer of hope in their quest to fightback from the 3-0 deficit. This has become a common trait over the past few weeks and is something
Amy and I will need to address prior to the cup final. From what appeared to be an insurmountable lead the girls suddenly allowed Droylsden more space and time and within 5 minutes of the restart the lead had been cut to 3-2.

For several minutes Denton appeared to totally lose their confidence and only a sensational goal line clearance from Teah prevented an equaliser. Indeed Teah and Emily at the back continued their fantastic run of form and both were outstanding once again today. The goalkeeper, Hannah, also deserves praise for her performance, she could do little to stop the efforts she conceded and her goal-kicking was much better. It was captain marvel Kendall who took responsibility to drag her team out of the mire. She collected the ball close to the half-way line, drove at the defence and unleashed an unstoppable strike into the bottom corner for her second of the game.

From there on in it was the Kay show. She struck a post but scored from the rebound, raced clear from Emily's clearance to claim her hatrick and then added a fourth for good measure after being released by Kendall's through-pass. In between she so nearly provided another for Grace who was expecting Kay to shoot herself and was taken by surprise when the ball fell to her infront of goal and the opportunity was denied.

It is now vital that all the girls attend the training sessions in the build up to next months final. The team is becoming an exciting one to watch and the aim is for them to get better and better with a view to mounting a strong challenge on all trophies next season.
Thanks again to Pete and Chloe for their input this morning and to Nigel and Amy for allowing me to be part of this. Also to the families for their great support as usual, I look forward to seeing you all with your red and black face paints on cup final day !!! Ha! Ha!

DROYLSDEN'S VOTE FOR PLAYER OF GAME: Kay. Well done Kay you must be the most dangerous striker in the league on this form.

RICK'S PLAYER OF THE GAME: I think Teah didn't put a foot wrong all match - awesome!! But it has to be Kay - 4 goals and 2 assists!!

RICK WATCH: As many of the girls ask me how I got on playing for Denton Town 1st X1 thought I'd add this new feature. We won today 5-0 against
Newton and I scored 2.

RICK.

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The scoreline says a very comfortable victory, but you didn't half do it the hard way. Coasting at 3-0, you seemed to switch off, lose your shape, and let Droylsden back into it. I've got to say, at 3-2, the next goal was crucial, and had Droyslden equalised, they would have fancied their chances of going on to win the game.

Having said that, some of the link up play was tremendous at times, and the game should of been put beyond Droylsden's reach on several occassions, as some clear cut chances went begging.

At the end of the day, "a win is a win" as they say, and I don't think in all the years I've been involved in girls football, have I ever seen a team turn their fortunes around so quickly.

The Final's on Sat 17th May at Oldham, time to be advised. You're playing Heyside Clarets, a strong team, who were lucky to beat us last week. The WHOLE LEAGUE will be cheering us on as Heyside the club, have so far, won every league, and every cup at ALL age levels this season, so its down to Denton and Oldham in another age group, to stop Heyside completing a very impressive whitewash.

WE ALL BELIEVE IN YOU! This is your moment. Seize the opportunity, and turn in a display your parents will be proud off, and come home with the trophy.

NIGEL.

Urmston Meadowside 2 Denton Town 3 a.e.t (U14's L/Cup Semi-final)

So girls, you're in another final, and still up for winning the treble. But OMG, all the energy I was trying to save for my bike journey home was used up in the last couple of mins of normal time, and extra time. Took forever to get home afterwards, but I consoled myself in the fact that I had seen a tremendous game of football in which you turned out victorious, plus the fact that the 12's had virtually sealed their place in a final, by the same scoreline, early in the day. I'm very very happy, and like I said at the end of the game, we don't need the Premiership, you give us all the excitement we need (especially at my age lol).

Big blow conceding after just 4 mins, and for the first 15 mins or so, we weren't at our best, and Urmston seeked to capitalise upon that. But, you stood firm, and gradually started to take command of the game. We had several chances to level, and although Urmston could of doubled their lead, by half-time I thought we were on top, but that elusive equaliser just wouldn't come.

Second half, and I think Samantha hit the post twice as we pushed on to get back on levels terms, but it was Yoyo on 48 min that restored parity. Still chances went begging, mostly for us, but a couple for Urmston as well, and then what an end to normal time. We were in the 2nd minute of injury time when Urmston regained the lead through a soft goal, which should of been cleared, and I'm sure all our hearts sank, and surely Urmston must of thought they had won it. Straight from kick off we went on the offensive, and much to our delight, Yoyo floated the ball across the face of the goal, hitting the top inside of the post, and neatly dropping into the net. I didn't know this, until I approached the ref about the duration of extra time, and he said "there was 2 seconds (yes 2 seconds), left on his watch" when Yoyo scored our very very very late equaliser. The Denton fans were screaming with delight, as we snatched a lifeline from the jaws of defeat.

Credit to both teams in extra time, as it was clear some were starting to feel fatigued, but all the players on the park, kept going for their respective teams, which contributed to one of the most exciting matches I've ever witnessed. Shame that one team had to lose, but, thankfully, it was Urmston and not us that went home disappointed, as Yoyo completed her hat-trick in the 1st minute of the 2nd period. That left 9 very nervous minutes, with Denton going close to making it safe a couple of times, and Urmston, fighting to the very end, pushing on in an desperate attempt to save the game.

So all smiles in the Denton camp, and every girl today, played like their lives depended upon it, and when you're in that frame of mind, you will give anybody in the country a game. Dave from Urmston, gave Ruby the Player of the Match award. For me, Ruby has come on so much in the last few months, she uses all her strength and determination to rob the opposition of the ball, going in strong, and making some absolutely perfectly timed tackles, just when it was needed most. Keep it coming Ruby, you really are maturing into an excellent player.

Charlotte Dudiey (no. 3) was their player of the match, though Chloe (no. 4), as usual, wasn't far offer getting the award herself. Urmston are a very very good side, and come 17th May, they will be more determined than ever to put one over on us.

Sorry I've not mentioned everyone, as you all deserve a pat on the back.

Finally, before letting you read Alan's report, here is an extract from Urmston's website, posted on 5th April, after they had secured their position in the Challenge Cup Final:-

Next week we have yet another Semi Final this time against our good friends Denton, who we must Congratulate on becoming the Newly Crowned 07-08 League Champions - Lets go get them girls !!! Dave - Dave, many thanks, not forgotten the special tribute you paid to us last season, before our final league game of the season. Total RESPECT to you and all the girls at Urmston Meadowside - Nigel.

NIGEL.

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Another great game today, we played a very very strong Urmston side, 3-2 extra time says it all. What a game and I know that the Urmston girls and their manager Dave will be dissapointed, we know how it feels (Deans last year, last 5 mins, own goal). I like the Urmston team, always pleasant, no chatting off the ball, and Dave is always kind in his words for Denton. Well I told him after the game I think it was the best game so far for us, a real hummdinger for which both teams made it happen. I think Urmston will certainly be challenging for all honours next year. A very good team and we have to play in the final in 3 weeks time so, it will be another cracker I'm sure of that. We will be without Yoyo for that final but, at least because of this win, she will be able to play in the League Cup Final. As I said, the league is the most important one to win, the cups are like icing on an already great year for us but, like I say each game, we have 2 games to play 2 finals, and believe me they, will be very hard to win because, the oppositon are all capable of winning it too so, girls, its only a semi we have won not the final, the work is only half done but, what ever happens I think we have had an amazing season already. Again, the word I keep saying to you all is PROUD because, we are just seeing your parents on Sat morning against the Meds cheering , willing you on, and you girls responding each time we asked you too, it was just fantastic. I'm not mentioning all players, I'll save it for the end of the season post, but Yoyo was outstanding today, also Ruby, who got player of the match and listened (for once lol), to my instructions. And well Rubes, it worked didn't it? ha ha. I'll see you all next Tues girls as I'm away for this Tues. Have fun, stay safe and, behave.

ALAN.

p.s. just to add too I'd like to say well done to the 11s for Allen, who also have had a fantastic season. Unbeaten in the league which takes some doing and, are also in two finals. So well done to all the 11s girls and also, to the 12s who have got into the final in there respective league too. Well done to them and the coaching team of Amy and Rick; everything Denton is looking great go denton wooo.

Curzon Ashton 2 Denton Town 3 (L/cup)

Fantastic girls, I'm so happy today with your result and the 14's. Sorry couldn't be there, but a while ago, I took the decision to cycle to the 14's Urmston match with an old work mate. Anyway, you were in the capable hands of Amy and Rick, and didn't need me, as the likes of Kylie, Teah and few others keep pointing out to me. Anyway, if you're happy, I'm happy, so keep it up next week vs. Droylsden. You're not quite in the final yet, so no slacking, let's get the job done, and gone and win the cup.

Just for the record, Grace did make it to the match, but due to injury received the day before, she was in severe discomfort with her foot, and was distraught at not being able to take part in the game.

Rick's report to follow.

Nigel.
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3-2 has been a favorable scoreline for me this weekend. Denton Town mens team won by that scoreline yesterday afternoon and then my Sunday League side won by the same margin in a cup semi final this morning (plus 14's won 3-2 as well - amazing - Nigel). The 3-2 that gave me the most satisfaction, however, and played the most havoc with my nerves was the girls "smash and grab" victory over Curzon Ashton to all but book their berth in the cup final.

The girls have enjoyed a quite remarkable sequence of results in recent weeks and must take full credit themselves for the dramatic turnaround in fortunes.

It is vital now that they enjoy the training session next Thursday night and focus on completing the task by defeating Droylsden next week. I have every confidence that the team will then match Heyside stride for stride in the cup final as they proved their worth against them during last weeks encounter.

Lauren scored twice and Kay, almost inevitably, struck the other in this vital win against impressive opposition. It was, as the old cliché goes, a game of two halves. Denton looked formidable in the first half, aided by the wind, and can count themselves unlucky not to have gone into the interval with a more comfortable lead than the 1-0 advantage handed to them when Kendall's cross from the right wing was dispatched expertly by Lauren despite being under pressure from the Curzon defender. Lauren, Kay and Kylie each came close to extending the lead as Denton totally dominated proceedings. The trio were each able to play with relative attacking freedom thanks to another majestic performance from Kendall in the centre of the pitch as she time and time again dispossessed her opponents and fed the ball to her team mates.

Whilst the first half proved to be a stroll the girls failed to heed the warnings of Pete during the half time team talk. Curzon came racing out of the blocks encouraged by having the wind in their favour and it was only thanks to the breath taking defensive work of Teah and Emily that Denton were able to retain their slender advantage. Nevertheless an equaliser looked inevitable and our hearts were in our mouths when it finally happened as a low shot from the left hand side whistled into the far corner of Hannah's net. As this juncture we feared the worst as the girls seemed to be tiring and Curzon were clearly rejuvinated.

We ought to learn not to doubt the fighting spirit of this group!! Against the run of play Kendall hit a long clearance and when the ball broke it was Kay whose eyes bulged wide sensing the opportunity and she did not disappoint as she raced clear of the defence and finished with her usual conviction.

Within minutes it was 3-1 as Kay turned provider, fending off numerous challenges before sliding a pass in for Lauren to dart into the area and claim her second of the game with another cool finish. There was still no time to celebrate though as Curzon again reduced the arrears with another quality effort and the final minutes were almost unbearable especially when the opposition broke clear on a counter-attack and sent a thunderous strike on target which Hannah saved heroically diving low to her left to beat away.

When the referee blew the final whistle it sparked great scenes of euphoria amongst the players, supporters and coaches alike - a tremendous achievement!!!

A quick word to Kylie and Georgia. Neither had their most productive of games though it was especially difficult for Georgia in the second half when she came on as we were tiring and the wind was causing us problems. I have complete 100% faith in both of your abilities and you have both proven your importance in recent weeks.

I spoke to Georgia before the match and the same applies to Kylie in that neither of you really appreciate just how good you are capable of being. Prepare well in the training sessions and we will start to see your true potential!!

Curzon's selection for Player of the Match: Kendall - I find it hard to argue with this choice as she is so influential on the team. Well done another superb display.

Rick's Player of the Match: Teah - absolutely brilliant at the back and then in midfield for the final minutes!! Teah is really starting to show an understanding for the game
and her partnership with Emily is improving week upon week. It shows the importance of working hard in training as Teah took the confidence from an impressive
session on Thursday into the match.

WELL DONE TO ALL OF YOU ! ! ! !

RICK.
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Well Girls another brilliant performance from you all did what we asked you to do play the ball on the ground with it being windy. In the second half you could tell the wind was getting to use as you all started to tire, we also seem to switch of at the in the second half to let Curzon come back and equalizer, its something myself and Rick need to work on with you in training to help you all progress. Curzon came back in the second half, but to your credit you battled right to the very end of the game. Kendall was Curzon woman of the match, another great performance from the skipper. Emily and Teah have a great partnership at the back, all you need to do now girls is to communicate with each other. Lauren was outstanding some brilliant footwork to split the defence apart rewarding her 2 goals for her efforts. Lauren also got back to defended when Curzon attacked at pace. Kay was also on the score sheet, but was unlucky to have a few more to her name. Kay made some brilliant runs and some good link up play with Lauren, let keep this up don't try and do to much on your own as we all keep telling you. Georgia and Kylie battle well and made important tackles when it mattered, it wasn't your best games girls, but I like your spirit by battling throughout the game. Hannah made some superb save keeping use in the game, You all played as a team on saturday which was encouraging to see,but will keep work on this in training. My woman of the match goes to Teah, her work rate on Saturday was brilliant you made tackles when it matter, made clearance whilst under pressure and you even played in the centre of midfield with the same work rate and confidence like you would at the back, there was also some good link up play with Lauren and Georgia which encouraging to see,it's a credit to yourself for all the hard work you put in at training. One other thing i'd like to mention i've said this on a number of occasions in training and in team talks, if your on the bench don't take it to heart your all talented players and you will all go on to play, when i was on the bench for the senior ladies team i was determined to show the manager how good i was by putting the effort in on the pitch as well as in training. hope your soon better Grace, we all missed you on saturday, we all wishing you a speedy recovery. Thanks to all the parents for your support of the last few week, even when the weather hasn't been great, you have all spur the girls on a drive them throughout this campaign we couldn't do it without you. That about it See you all at training it important you all turn up as you will be fighting for your starting places.

AMY
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Denton Town 3 Heyside Clarets 4 (L/Cup)

Girls, you were so unlucky today. Clarets are the champs, so we knew it would be tough, but you matched them tackle for tackle. I don't want to take anything away from our opponents today, they are a great team from a terrific club, who like us, do a fab job promoting girls football, but for me, two decisions swung it their way.

Firstly, their 2nd goal, which brought them level at 2-2, was clearly a foul on keeper Hannah. Hannah had the ball in both hands, only for the forward to kick it from her, then planting the ball into an empty net.

Secondly, Kylie handled the ball in our penalty area, and from where I was standing, she was protecting her face. Difficult one for the ref, as no doubt Heyside would of complained had she waved on, but I feel that would of been the correct decision.

The ref was Kirsty Doherty, who used to play for us a few seasons ago. Not one of her best games, but knowing Kirsty as I do, she is a lovely girl who always trys to give a fair decision, but on this occassion, she didn't do us any favours - not that I was asking for any. 7/10.

Their numbers 4 and 9 were outstanding, but in the end I opted for number 9.

Over to you Rick.

NIGEL

p.s. Rick has volunteered to sing Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler with Teah at our presentation night on 24th May. Can't wait. I'm going to film it and put it on YouTube as well.
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Although I'm not really one for harping on about referees sometimes their decisions can leave you feeling frustrated and this morning Denton were on the receiving end of two woeful decisions which ultimately proved costly.
The opposition, Heyside Angels, are deservedly champions-elect. They have a very impressive record at this level which has been established by their good organisation defensively and a technically astute attack. If our own ability is to be measured at their standard, however, then we are not at all too far apart. The Heyside coaches announced at the final whistle that we had provided their toughest battle this season and that if the girls are to progress to the final of this competition then it would make a worthy spectacle.

If the girls are to reach their potential then it is vital that they fully appreciate the "team" ethic. This is a point Amy has drilled into them through-out this campaign and during Thursdays training session she introduced some team-building exercises. Whilst it was unclear in midweek whether the players had taken this seriously my feeling is that, based on this performance, there certainly appeared to be more of a togetherness about the girls. I urge them to continue in this vain as the driving force behind any successful team is a healthy respect for one another and a desire to help your team mates.

This was always likely to be a fixture to challenge Denton's unbeaten run. Amy had the thankless task of naming a starting 7 from a group of 9 talented girls; eventually deciding to start with Hannah, Teah, Emily, Kendal, Lauren, Georgia and Kay. This meant the in-form Kylie dropping to the bench alongside Grace but to their credit both took the disappointment respectfully realising that this is indeed a strong squad. In recognition of Heyside's attacking strengths Kendall was asked to fulfill a holding role in the centre of midfield yet this didn't prevent the skipper from opening the scoring inside the first 5 minutes. Lauren swung in a tantalising corner from the left and Kendall lost her marker at the far post to somehow beat the keeper with a delightful flick of her boot. Denton were certainly holding their own. Kendall was sweeping up perfectly in the centre with Emily and Teah also in terrific form behind her. Nevertheless the champions showed their credentials when equalising with a low drive to Hannah's left. The majority of teams would have been likely to succumbed to Heyside's renewed optimism but not this group of fighters!! Within minutes they were back ahead. Teah made a crucial tackle and the ball found its way to Lauren who raced clear of the defender and weighted another perfect pass for leading scorer Kay to scamper behind the last player and slot home with great composure to make it 2-1.

With just minutes remaining of the first half, and with the next goal likely to be vastly important to the outcome, the referee made her first conspicuous decision. Hannah dropped to her knees to collect a long-ranged effort and with both hands on the ball the Heyside forward bundled it away from her and into the empty net!!

Georgia had earned a rest at the beginning of the second half and was replaced by Grace. Prior to kick-off I had spoken to Georgia about influencing the game and she produced an energetic, classy display combining her natural attacking talents with combative defensive duties. Kylie had also been introduced late in the first period after Kay sustained a minor injury to her foot and she was also to add her usual feisty cameo in an unfamiliar centre forward role.

Unfortunately for a very short while Denton appeared to switch-off from their full concentration and were punished by a quick-fire Heyside double. Firstly the technically-gifted number 4 found herself free to strike with a venemous volley which was absolutely unstoppable and then the referee made her second blunder in awarding a penalty-kick for alleged handball against Kylie who had clearly just been protecting her face from being struck at point blank range. It was a harsh decision to say the very least!!!

Full credit to the girls once again who refused to lie down and be beaten. Teah and Emily continued to dominate at the back granting their team-mates licence to push forward and with 5 minutes remaining there was fresh hope as Emily's deadly long throw-ins caused havoc in the Heyside penalty area and resulted in an own goal to reduce the arrears. Denton continued to search for the equaliser and came mighty close as Grace's attempt was deflected over the crossbar but Heyside held their nerve to earn the points.

Player of the Match as voted by Heyside: Kay - always a threat when running at the defence and took her goal well.

Rick's Player of the Match: Very tough to call, I could say the whole team again but I will try not to sit on the fence. Defensively thought we were very sound with Emily and Teah and I
was also very proud of the performance of Georgia but my vote again goes to captain marvel Kendall for the second week in succession. She sacrificed her attacking exploits for the good of the team and still managed to score! She was essential in breaking up Heyside counter-attacks.

P.s. Nigel - I don't recall ever agreeing to sing a duet with Teah and if I did it wouldn't be a Bonnie Tyler song that's for sure!!! Besides it would be a sensitive issue to duet with Teah
after she announced I was no longer her "bird" !! Ha! Ha!

RICK.

DENTON TOWN 6 SALE 4 (11's)

WELL YOU EVENTUALLY DID IT YOU WERE ALREADY CHAMPIONS GOING INTO THE MATCH BUT THIS WIN WAS SPECIAL THIS WIN MADE YOU THE TRUE CHAMPIONS NOBODY HAS BEATEN YOU ALL SEASON IT DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER THAN THAT CONGRATULATIONS ONCE AGAIN AND LETS SEE IF WE CAN BRING THE CUPS BACK TO DENTON

WELL DONE

NIKEA,EMILY,BECKS,SALLY,GEORGIA,KENDEL,GABBY,REBBECCA,SARAH.MOLLY

I WILL TRY AND GET THE PICTURES PUT ON AS SOON AS I GET THEM

I HOPE WE'VE GOT THE ONE WITH MOLLY DRINKING THE CHAMPERS DIDN'T ANY BODY TELL HER SHE WAS SUPPOSE TO SPRAY IT?

AND A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THE PARENTS FOR ALL THERE SUPPORT REMEMBER

GIRLS WITHOUT THERE SUPPORT THERES NO TEAM

AND LAST BUT NOT LEASE THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR THE CHAMPAGNE I AM ON MY FIRST GLASS I WAS GOING TO SAVE IT FOR A SPECIAL EVENT BUT THEN I REMEMBER HAVING THIS TEAM IS A SPECIAL EVENT

SEE YOU ALL THURSDAY

ALLEN

CONGATULATIONS

WELL DONE THE UNDER 14s LEAGUE CHAMPIONS AGAIN

AND GOOD LUCK IN THE CUPS

FROM ALL THE U11s GIRLS

Deans 1 Denton Town 5 (u14's)

C*H*A*M*P*I*O*N*S - AGAIN!

On paper you would of thought, Denton, full squad, champions elect, vs. Deans, only 3 wins all season, only playing with 10, no brainer surely, Denton should walk it. Don't you kid yourself, Deans had other plans, and we were lucky to be level at half time. Deans took an early lead after 9 minutes, and to be honest, could of netted another couple before we levelled.

Samantha's goal perhaps had a bit luck to it, after their keeper spilled the ball, and had it not been for Sam's team mates shouting "it's behind you", we may well of gone in at half-time a goal down. Sometimes you need a little bit of luck to get going, and that certainly did it for us, as 2nd half, it was virtually one way traffic. Not all luck of course, because the stern half-time team talk by Alan, trying to demonstrate Football - Ballet style, was certainly a little amusing, but he got the message across to you all brilliantly.

It took 18 mins for Yoyo to bag our 2nd, and what a relief it was. From half-time to that moment, we peppered Dean's goal, and I know Tim and myself weren't on our own thinking "one of those days", and Deans are going to "snatch a 2nd at the death", to really poo poo the party. Got to say though, one parent was full of confidence and predicted we would win 5-1. Well done Paul (Nic's dad), should of had a tenner on it lol.

Three minutes later and a power shot from Keely made it three, and I let out a huge sigh, and said "thank God for that", could relax a little at last. Yoyo scored two more, one on 61 mins, but saved the best till last 3 minutes later with a powerful header from the edge of the 6yd area, any premiership played would of been proud of.

On reflection, 5-1 was deserved for our 2nd half dominance, but if you take the 1st half into account, maybe it flattered us a bit, and lets give full credit to Deans, playing with just 10 girls, against a team that was going for the title, they must of thought the worst at kick-off, but they rolled their sleeves up and got stuck in. You could hear their manager Anthony, just before half time shouting, "this is winnable girls", and you know what, he was right, if we hadn't of changed our game in the 2nd, then Deans could well of gone on to win this game. I really hope Anthony can keep them going next season, as they certainly have some talent in the team, especially their player of the match No.7 on the left wing, who had a great game. Ref did ok, gave him 8.

Final league game of the season, and it seemed appropriate to me that Captain Nicole should be nominated as our player of the match by the opposition. This was backed up by Billy and Mike from the ladies team who mentioned to me on a couple of occasions, that Nicole was a superb player, who held her position well, and was confident in giving out instructions and encouragement to her team mates. Nicole is an unsung hero, who just gets on with the job of motivating the team, and holding the defence together, pity she can't quite hack it up front; it was quite amusing seeing her giving it a go though. Soz, Nic, you're never going to live that down you know. Poynton tournament in June, if Tim/Alan's not there, I'll put you up front and Yoyo in goal, that should make life interesting don't you think? lol.

Thanks to Billy and Mike for coming down to support again, and to Mike for taking the pics., though bit of camera shake was in evidence, perhaps you girls made him nervous lmho. That champagne (alcohol free) wasn't cheap, and I don't think much of it was drunk. Never mind, it was fun, and at the end of the day, that's what we do it for.

Special word for Georgia, who was the only girl that didn't make it yesterday. Though she is injured, she really wanted to come, but her Great Gran is seriously ill in Stepping Hill, and obviously at times like these, its important to be with one's family. Can I just say on behalf of us all, "we're thinking of you and wish you and your family well during this difficult period for you all".

Congratulations to all of you: -

Chloe Williams

Nicole Worthington (capt)

Sally Tattersall

Keely Oates

Rebecca Collins

Samantha Smith

Ruby Sullivan

Yolanda Edwards

Georgia Curley

Chloe Brewer

Megan Brocklehurst

Lauren Heard

Kaysha Judge

Kayleigh Crompton

Chelsea Hill

Sophie Burke

You are all truly worthy of the title CHAMPIONS - Back to Back as well, real sign of a

GREAT TEAM!

Lets not forget, the greatest partnership in girls football the world has ever seen - Tim Sullivan and Alan Brewer.

S*I*M*P*L*Y T*H*E* B*E*S*T!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who needs City when I've got you!

NIGEL.
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CLICK ON YOUTUBE LINK ON RIGHT OF BLOG TO SEE LITTLE MOVIE MIKE TOOK OF THE CELEBRATIONS - QUALITY NOT COME ACROSS VERY WELL ON YOUTUBE THOUGH.

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WOW! CHAMPIONS AGAIN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What a great accomplishment that is, we have struggled so bad this year with players being injured, I just said to Tim and Nige that "what will be will be this season", we will just go out and play our games. each game at a time.

Well look where its got us lol; We are league champions again Whoooopeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can't tell you enough how proud we are of you all, what a team and like I said, next year we will have 3 more players, great players too; Chloe B, Rebbecca and Georgia who have had a miserable time with injuries, I know how gutted they must of been because I know how much they love their football, and want to play every game, so I cant wait to see them kicking a ball again in the colours of Denton (more like Brazil lol - Nigel), what I can say though, next year will be more difficult but, we will rise to that challenge again and, we will be even better I'm sure of that. Yesterday's game 5-1 looks convincing and if I just spoke about the second half I would say well deserved, because we played some great football, passing movement, tackling we played great, and I thought we controlled the game but, when i talk about the first half as well then I'm sorry, we was poor, Deans played great the first half, they were first to everything. They played the ball about and deserved their lead because of the simple fact, they were better than us, we were lucky, very lucky to be level at half time and, I was happy to get you off so we could basically give you blasting and remind you that you don't just turn up at games and expect to win them. I believe too many of you thought oh, we are champions, Deans are struggling we will obviously win this easy, its going to be easy. Well at half time I reminded you that Deans won this league and last year they were in the league cup final and, they got there by knocking us out in the semi. They have struggled a little this year not because of ability but, because of lack of numbers and think they deserve a lot of credit for turning up to play their games and like yesterday, play to win. 5-1 overall was flattering to us, we did deserve to win ladies but, only because of us deciding to play second half and credit to Deans, they never stopped trying. I went over to them and congratulated them for their effort and told them I hope they can get a few extra players in their team, because they will be a force to reckoned with next year so good luck Deans, we will see you next year. I'd just like to mention Lauren, yesterday apparently she had been sick all night and was constantly going to the toilet being sick but, she still managed to turn up, wanting to play and, in her words "just to be there in case we were struggling" well Lauren, a great attitude and one we should all take on board in the future because, when you play for and think for each other like we do, you can achieve anything in football anything. Once again girls, well done you are the best team in the league, the table never lies and we have beaten some truly great teams this year to achieve it.

ALAN.

Go on YouTube for the little video as mentioned above, and enjoy some of the photos shown below.

Denton Town 3 Mostyn Valley 3 (U11's) L/cup

If ever there was evidence of the rapid progress the under 12s have made it was at the full-time whistle of this tense 3-3 draw with Mostyn Villa.
Despite suffering 9-0 and 5-0 defeats at the hands of their opponents earlier this season the Denton girls were actually disappointed not to extend their winning sequence of late.
They ought not to be too hard on themselves. Looking at the wider picture they remain unbeaten in joint top of the League Cup table and have now lost just one of their last 7 games.
Mostyn Valley are anything but an easy team to play. Their long ball tactic seeking out two strikers left upfield make it very difficult to defend against especially for an attack minded,
true footballing outfit such as Denton Town. Perhaps on reflection Amy and I could have introduced a more suppressive formation in the latter stages whilst leading 2-0 and 3-1 to counter-act Mostyn's tactics but in doing so we would have had to abandon our own footballing principles. As it turned out we maintained our own attacking beliefs; consequently the opposition broke away twice to grab a share of the spoils much to the girls' frustration.
Success attracts problems of its own for a management team. Last week, without a recognized keeper, we thrashed Heyside Navys 7-1 but with Hannah available for selection again
Georgia was relegated to the substitutes bench. This was absolutely no reflection on her performance the previous week when she was outstanding but we can only field 7 players at any one time and each girl is going to have to accept that this is a TEAM game. To her credit she took this on board and entered the fray at half-time to make it 3-1 with a dynamic burst into the Mostyn box. This is the kind of attitude that we are going to require from everyone as we look to build upon recent successes!! Grace, too, returned from illness to stake her claim with a solid display having also appeared for the second half.
The opening exchanges of the match were franetic with both teams looking threatening. Denton came the closest when the Mostyn Valley keeper pulled off a stunning double save to deny first Lauren and then Kendall who was following in on the edge of the area. Nevertheless it was Denton who opened up a 2-0 lead thanks to a brace from the in-form Kylie, wearing her new Cristiano Ronaldo-esque yellow Nike boots! (Nigel - please keep winding her up before kick-off it is working a treat!). Emily launched another of her trademark long throw-ins and the ball found
Kylie racing in at the far post to score via her thigh. Just minutes later she doubled her tally following one of the greatest pieces of football I have witnessed at this level. Kay and Lauren opened up the defence with a series of one-touch passes to one another. Lauren's effort was blocked but the ball fell kindly for Kylie to force in past the keeper.
Mostyn hadn't really created any clear-cut opportunities but were awarded a life-line in the closing moments of the half when a hopeful long-range effort eluded Teah and crept beyond Hannah into the bottom corner. Until this point the tactics we had employed were working a treat but the girls in midfield were being asked to cover the length of the pitch in an attempt to quell Valley's long-ball game and it was inevitably taking its toll.
The introduction of Georgia and Grace gave renewed freshness to their work and Georgia danced through the static defence to slam in a third at the near post 5 minutes into the second period.
With the influential captain, Kendall, taking a well-earned breather, however, Mostyn utilised their route one plan to devastating effect and struck twice in quick succession to level proceedings.
Even then the outcome could have swung in either direction. Teah, Emily and Kendall each made vital interceptions to prevent golden opportunities and Denton also came close when Kay hit the crossbar direct from a corner-kick and then she came within inches of meeting Kendall's free-kick at the far post.
Don't be too disheartened girls this was a decent result against awkward opponents!!
Rick's Player of the Match - Kendall; was fantastic in training on Thursday and took her form into todays game. We asked a lot from her in the first half and she delivered. A major asset to the team and a true captain.
May I add my congratulations to Nigel and his Under 14 girls on their continued success in winning the league.

Rick
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Delighted with your continued improvement girls, 1 defeat in 7 is championship form, and you now have a real chance of winning this competition, but you need to continue to work hard in matches and at training to do it.

Nigel.