​So, after all the excitement of the last few weeks and really strong consistent performances since lockdown release it was a home game for the final game of the season and what would no doubt be the sternest of tests. Only beaten once and top of the league – it could only be Charlwood.
 
The Cobras had played Charlwood teams twice this season losing 2-4 and 2-5 - in one game where they were low on players however in both they had been outplayed. The boys were all excited by the challenge and although we had a couple of enforced changes enthusiasm remained high.
 
A good start was imperative, and could the Vipers catch Charlwood cold from the off? The question was answered in the 1st minute – an emphatic no!!!! My pencil was burning from the off as the blur of yellow shirts swarmed all over us from the start – George was into instant action and was valiant in his defiance. The cry from the Loxwood mass was that muscle, “getting your foot in” and “route 1” was likely the only way out of this – playing through the Charlwood midfield was not an option. The good news was that in Cam and Ben we had “men boys” on the pitch who with their stature could help stem the flow.
 
It was only the 5th minute though when Charlwood made the breakthrough – from a corner. Ben headed clear but Charlwood were on it and the ball was struck sweetly. Through the crowded box for 1-0. The restart and it continued. Charlwood immediately hit the bar and had a looping shot sail wide.
 
The Vipers held them out for another 9 minutes but it was once again a corner that saw an attacker left loose and capitalising with a stooping heading from a low whipped in corner on the near post. 0-2.
 
Although a win was a stretch could the lads rally and stem the flow? Well yes, sort of…… George went route 1 and it landed at William, he broke free and rounded the keeper – was it to be a repeat of that cup final goal? – not quite. With a touch a little heavy it bobbled past the post, but a chink had been shown. Cue the Rocky theme tune – was this the turning point? I could hear Rocky in the corner saying, “I can see of three of them Micky” and Micky screaming back “Just hit the one in the middle…”. Tackles were flying in – Cody was strong, Cam was strong, Fin was strong, Jenko playing sensible football all game and Sebby was showing why he is the most improved player in the 2nd half of the season. Charlwood scored. 18th minute. 0-3.
 
The half ended with this score line. Cam floated in a long range free-kick. Charlwood were tricky, the Vipers had chances on the break. Having Jody available would have been an interesting challenge for this defence (not withstanding Raff and Charlie also).

​The 2nd half wasn’t quite as one-way in terms of play. For the record Charlwood scored 2 really quick goals in the 45th and 47th minute that killed the tie. They had one right at the end to complete a 0-6 victory which while deserved may have been a little harsh on the Vipers who probably didn’t deserve to concede a 6th and on balance deserved one for themselves. They had troubled the Charlwood defence at times who I suspect don’t normnally have any defending to do :!
 
That said congratulations Charlwood. Worthy league winners and setting the standard. Whenever we play them, it is a fair, polite and respectful game. We wish them luck next season!
 
Notable in this half were Georges heroics including a fabulous double save – that coupled with the one in the final proving we really do have an Inspector Gadget in goal at times. Also notable was Jenko really taking no prisoners, Sebby bombing up the left from the left – have we found a new Gareth Bale? Cam very strong in midfield and having a clearance off the line. It was also very heartening to see Ben slip into midfield. He had already played his heart out for the Cobras this same morning but his desire to fight for the cause never wavered. William decided a Zindane step-over was the order of the day and executed beautifully and even Coach Paul got in on the act with a lovely mid-air take down from the sideline. And not to forget Sarah who on deciding to retrieve the ball from distance now realised it had to be passed back over some length in front of a very supportive crowd “oooooooooo, you’re good ahhhhhhhhh”
 
Although Sam did have a quieter game, he did win a penalty – it was just that “Collina the Enforcer” in the middle did not spot it – post match he insists that we were on the wrong side (of the pitch) and it was a great tackle. From where we were standing there was only one individual on the “wrong side” and that was Vinny J
 
The Vipers finished the season a more than respectable 3rd and an exciting foundation for next season – easily our best team performance of the year and nothing but positives for this well drilled and enthusiastic pool of players.

​It would amiss to finish this report without a mention of Harry Smith. Also shattered from the Cobra game he was out of energy but as we have known for years this wouldn’t put him down and he joined the game at the end for a cameo performance that would be his last ever at U12s before he steps down a year back to his own age group.
 
What to say? Harry Smith has been a pleasure to watch develop. Since age 5 he has played up with us and represented both teams. So many games where he has doggedly annoyed defences and players 3 times his size and nicked goals with his speed, guile and desire. This culminated in his hat-trick in the recent semi-final that put us on the path to glory.
 
I think in the time I have watched this group he is the one player that I have heard opposing supporters/parents say multiple times “who the hell is that kid?” … “he plays everywhere” ….”where does he get the energy?” …… “and how do you stop him”.  And always with a smile… in the rain, snow and sun. He lives for football. Our own Messi. Good luck Harry S in the U12s next year – they are lucky to have you and you will smash it....

His last match and and an early one below.....

After a run of good performances, but disappointing results, the Cobras of Loxwood arrived at the hallowed turf of Great Common, keen to secure the victory they so deserved. Since it all came down to this game; both the last of the season, and the last under the tutelage of coach Andy Leete (after more than 4 years of involvement at the club), the brave boys in white were particularly motivated - and it showed, from the moment the first whistle blew.

The game began with Angus in goal, a back line of Luc, Kelsey and Willem; a midfield of Sylvester, Dan, Ben and Harry, with Oscar playing up front. Instructions from the manager were to press the opposition into their half, and to communicate positively with each other - and boy did they listen!

The Griffins were up against it, as the Cobras kept much of the football out of their defensive third with a commitment to win the ball and make challenges with conviction. The Cobras worked well in midfield; Sylvester making some great runs up the wing and Harry and Ben linking up well in the centre, both getting forward into goal scoring positions. However, it took a perfect through ball from Luc to impact the scoreboard. Ben, running onto the pass, slotted the ball into the corner of the net. 1-0 Cobras. 

Further opportunities then came, with Albury visibly rattled. An unfortunate miss-hit from an Albury defender finding its way over their keeper and into the back of the net, 2-0 Cobras, and the half time whistle went.

​In the second half, with Marco now on, securing things at the back, Albury began to force their way back into the game, a flurry of brilliant stops from new keeper Willem kept the sheet clean. The Cobras continued to play positively; Angus, now in the outfield made some great runs up the wing and serviced the forward players with perfect crosses and corners. Albury attacking efforts began to dry up, thanks to strength at the back from Kelsey and some better engagement from Dan. Oscar continued to provide a constant threat on the counter attack and Luc tracking the Albury forwards like a heat-seeking missile. 

Altogether the most assured performance of the season, and a well-deserved 2-0 victory.

Parents player award went the excellent Kelsey for another outstanding defensive display (just needs to be more gentle with his crosses when he's pressing higher up the pitch!), and coaches award went jointly to two clean-sheet-keepers, Angus and Willem, who both combined confident shot-stopping with clear calling and positive leadership from the back.

Great heart from the boys to work so hard as a team, making coach Andy proud-as-punch in the process.

A big thank you from everyone connected to the U12s who have been honoured to have Andy and Angus with us over the years..... our teams would never have developed without your unselfish commitment, dedication and expertise!
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Unfazed by their opponents previous week's Cup exploits, the Cobras set about Ewhurst with amazing energy and enthusiasm. Harry S and Ben taking the game by the scruff of the neck and pulling the midfield strings.

Lovely movement off the ball and neat confident passing early on enabled the Cobras to create the best of the chances with Ben striking the crossbar with a rising rasping shot and Sam being denied by some brave keeping. Ewhurst only rarely threatening the Cobras goal due to defensive heroics from Kelsey, Fin, Marco and an ever alert Barney.

The Cobras continued to press in the 2nd half with chances created from well rehearsed corner set pieces thanks to excellent distribution from Angus, Kelsey, Willem and Sam but a resolute Ewhurst stood firm. Further Cobras chances came and went without being converted,  with time nearly up a rare defensive lapse in dealing with a loose ball enabled Ewhurst to sneak in at the back post to slide in a winner to the despair of the home crowd.
​
A harsh result for the Cobras based on effort and determination, not to get something for their much improved display, which was probably their best performance since returning from the lock down break.

I wasn't on time to see the first game so cannot comment although both sets of supporters reported that the Cobras had dominated the game and were unlucky to lose to Ewhurst who took their chance. 

Watching game 2 I thought the effort was excellent and the organisation good. Players in their positions and holding them well. Ben extremely strong in midfield, Harry danger wherever and whoever he plays for and Slyvester very assured were the highlights noted. Sam was a constant danger and may have had more success if he released the ball earlier towards goal just to give teammates the opportunity to gamble on the rebound as well as giving their keeper something to think about. 

The difference in the end was that the Ewhurst players gave more passing options with their movement off the ball to whoever had possession. The boys didn't tire, didn't give in and really were unlucky to not get a goal that their endevours deserved.
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Well done lads! Its a while since I have seen a Cobras game and there is tons of progress!

​A day at a neutral ground, rosettes in hand, flags at the ready, sleepless nights, a bundle of nerves… it meant one thing…..It’s a Cup Final.
 
We (if you are are as old as me) remember this. The only game live on TV, a town dressed in the team colours, a Saint & Greavsie early morning start and Bob Wilson interviewing the players on a sun filled bus as it made its way through the throng of fans making their way to the twin towers.
 
And it was these memories in the background that we made our way in various vehicles to the hallowed turf of Horsley FC. Charlie stepped out of the car full of a pre-match special diet (an Aero supersize Peppermint chocolate bar) and with the Rocky IV theme tune ringing in his ears – perfect preparation…
 
“Two worlds collide
Rival nations
It's a primitive clash
Venting years of frustrations
Bravely we hope
Against all hope
There is so much at stake
Seems our freedom's up
Against the ropes
Does the crowd understand?”
 
Nervous tension as the supporting crowd gathered and nervous excitement as the boys got themselves together.
 
A move pitch side unveiled excited parents, sisters, brothers, and grandparents as a supporting cast. The famous Loxwood roar was on tour and it would be felt.
 
Conditions were windy, very windy. The rain from earlier in the day had abated but threatened. A big factor in the clouds overhead.

​A well-managed warm-up, directions and encouragement was served, and Captain Cam was called to the centre for the toss of the coin. Coin toss lost and the Sea Lions elected to play the first half towards downhill and with the wind behind them on pitch 4. An interesting decision, and probably right turned around the other way – would a strong advantage in the 1st half serve them well?
 
The last game between these two was only 3 weeks ago. A 2-0 win to the team from Goldsworth who had defended brilliantly, kept out the Viper attack and taken their chances well!
For once I won’t detail everything… if I miss anyone I apologise….. (I also lost my 1st half notes!)
 
The game started with Loxwood strong. Against the wind and causing danger. William in particular was dangerous. It was only five minutes though before Goldsworth were taking advantage of that swirling wind and the conditions. Wave after wave……
 
Harry J his normal dependable and reliable self, Fin playing smart at left back but maybe our new signing “New” Sebby at right-back really showing his newfound talent – where has this defending Cafu/Neville/Phil Neal (you take your pick) come from since lockdown return?
 
There really was no pattern in midfield and both teams struggled to get their foot on the ball. When Loxwood did break Jody was dangerous with his blistering speed but in the conditions, it was tough to keep momentum.
 
I won’t go through the rotation of subs throughout but noted that the coach played this well. Resting who needed to be rested at the right time and trying to mix it up to create variety.
 
Goldsworth had a number of corners and even from the far end it was obvious that we these were troublesome. Finally, one from the bottom right was whipped in at speed in the 14th minute, it bent wickedly and brave George got his hands to it – unfortunately he pushed the ball into his own net. (sorry George). 1-0 Goldsworth which on the balance of play at this time was deserved.
 
“Come on Loxwood!!!”, “Heads-up lads” were the various cries. And how they responded. Straight from kick-off the adrenalin was pumping, and spirits had not died. It finally came together. Charlie held the ball in midfield and looked up. A beautifully played through ball cut the defence apart but all the work was still to be done. William ran onto it as the opposing keeper advanced, but William was around him. He was pushed wide with an open goal but kept his head to slot it home. Only 4 minutes from going down it was now 1-1.
​

​An incredible moment followed. Although the author could potentially be accused of bias, the video below says everything. Goldsworth on the back foot, the keeper off his line and following intense pressure from Jody and William it landed at Charlies feet who it from a long way out…. “just look at his face, look at his face….”… Wasn’t to be, although Charlie is crowned “World Crossbar challenge champion” without any question.
​

The Smiths and were on. Slotting into their positions with aplomb. Harry in particular being a menace. However, it was Cody as the substitution in defence that probably assisted the most. Goldsworth were dangerous throughout this period but brilliant tracking by Sam and Cam to support the back three kept them out.
 
All they had to do was get to half-time at 1-1. A first half draw and the conditions would favour the Vipers. Could they make it? Yes! They did! 1-1 at half-time and both teams happy with how they had played in that first half.
 
Half-time came, an encouraging team talk from Coach Paul and Enforcer Vinny but most importantly a whole bag of wine gums administered by Tess.

​

The rain started as the 2nd half kicked off – blowing sideways. A lot of concern that the expected advantage of playing behind the wind would be negated. Thankfully though it didn’t last.
 
The 2nd was being played in a similar fashion to how the whole of the game had been played so far. Both teams working diligently but the conditions working against them. This resulted in a pattern where the game had no pattern. It also meant that any ball played forward to Jody was giving him too much to do. He played well throughout, with a few 1:1s but was denied by the wind, good goalkeeping or the linesmans offside flag (right decisions from what I witnessed at that end).
 
A feature of the second half was “Captain Cam”’s commandment in midfield. He asserted his physical presence on the game and was mopping up back to front. His partnership in midfield with Charlie playing in a more attacking role has worked well. He is also a commander on the pitch. At times of little communication, it isn’t left to George on his own anymore and Cam gees them up but also has an intelligent side word with players who have missed an attempt or heads are dropping. Great leadership that William Wallace would even raise his axe to!
 
The author found the 2nd half a blur but looking through my notes I can confirm that Harry Smith continued to cause trouble, providing chances more often than not for others. Cam had a number of multiple attempts and Sebby remained unflappable.
 
The ref had blown for multiple free-kicks in the game. The boys were playing smart, floating them high towards the keeper and following in to create trouble. A resulting corner created mayhem in the 6-yard box and in the 44th minute and Jody had the vital touch – the boys back the in lead at 2-1.

​

Although it was felt that this was the point of the game that had made the difference it wasn’t. George had previously dealt with a lot of danger in the first half quite comfortably, but it was a Goldsworth corner that bought the game changer (in my mind). A dangerous corner bobbled out of the area and was well struck by our opposition. George dived to his left outstretched and pushed it away – made to look effortless. Goldsworth pushed on, Sebby cleared off the line. Cam picked it up to bring it out. Goldsworth shot, impeded by an Oscar challenge – it went wide. It was now starting to feel like it wasn’t to be their day. Gordon Banks save vs the Pele header in 1970? Forget it! This is the save that I will remember to my grave.

A brilliant piece of video editing by Mrs.Ramsay follows (sound on required).....

The game remained patchy but it didn’t feel like anyone was going to take control. The risk was that with no extra-time that Goldsworth would nick one as the Loxwood fans nerves stretched onto the pitch. It was all put to bed before that though. With just over 2 minutes left a looping free-kick from Charlie on the half-way line span high, hit the keeper and rolled up over him backwards towards to the goal. Did it go over line? It didn’t really matter as William watched it come down and he knocked it into the back of the net to make sure, he did however award it to Charlie stating it was over the line. 3-1 and into the last minute. The final whistle was a very sweet sound.
 
As I said, a hard report to write. No poor performance, every player played their part in a team performance as they have done in the lead up to this final in what has been a difficult season. The Vipers performances post-lockdown have without doubt been something we have never witnessed before from this group.
 
Credit to Goldsworth who never gave up, played fairly and were gracious. Whenever we have played them it has been the best of grassroots football. The referee also played his part in being clear in his decisions and instruction. He also made it clear that “throw-in” lessons are certainly required for the Vipers.
​

This has been a long-time coming. 6 years. Today was a team effort, but not just any team effort – an extended team effort. Coaches Paul and Andy Leete who have nutured and developed these players. Vinny, Simon Gwilliam, Marco (I probably missed someone) taking coaching. Lines being marked out early, ground set-up by Steve Smith, linesman volunteers, even people referring when required. Everyone involved for the past 6 years should be proud. The first of many we hope!!!!

The cup is picked up......
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​Last word to “lad mountain Captain Cam” and his victorious team mates….. brilliant lads, just brilliant........

​Vipers vs Goldsworth Park Rangers Stags
 
After the excitement of last week’s excellent semi-final display it was back to regular business as the Vipers made the now familiar journey to Goldsworth Park to face the Stags in a double header league game.
 
A cunning ploy was foiled right at the start as it discovered at the line-up for kick-off that Coach Paul had sneaked a 10th player onto the field of play and Marco was swiftly removed – nice try Coach Paul!
 
The game had a steady start although this author proved why he is better at reporting than coaching when he screamed at George to use his hands and pick the ball up from a Jenko back pass – luckily George “The Cat” knows the rules of football better and proved that he has studied Law 12, Section 2 which states “The back-pass rule states that a goalkeeper is forbidden to handle the ball when passed to them by a team-mate”. Phew! Good for George.
 
The Vipers had a steady start and the opening exchanges were notable for Williams strong corners, a looping effort from Charlie, a great run from Jody, and dependable Jenko displaying his normal self-assurance in the centre of defence. It was clear from the start though Sebby was on it and in what was to be a feature throughout both games he played a lot of sensible balls with the masses within the traveling fan contingent in agreement that this was his best performance ever.
 
The Stags were in this and a very dangerous corner that was whipped was headed by Jenko who nearly score own goal of the year. The lads looked strong though. Fin was letting little past him, William was ferreting around creating a nuisance of himself and Cameron was dominating in midfield winning every 50/50 ball in his normal fearless manner that has become a feature of his game. Charlie was throwing his weight around also and was likened to a “bumper car” by some!
 
Marco and Cody came on and the momentum continued. Cody was playing in a more advanced position that normal and put Jody through who narrowly missed.
 
Notable in this part of the game was the tippy tappy football on the field and also off it – as the ball was played onto the left wing and Marco demonstrated all his Italian finesse with some lovely one touch ball control. Could we squeeze him into an under-12 shirt and get him on? Maybe not!
 
As the half (1st game) drew to a close George released the ball quickly in a route 1 attempt. Their keeper cleared but from midfield Charlie met it strongly with his head and it fell into the path of an advancing Jody. A beautiful cross field ball from Jody landed at the feet of Sam who buried it with aplomb leaving the Stags keeper no chance. A beautiful move, one to savor. A great team goal.
 
The half wasn’t completed, and Coach Paul asked the Vipers to see this out this however it was the Stags who finished the the stronger and it took a great reaction save from George to keep the score at 0-1. The ref blew for half-time and game one was concluded at 0-1 to the Vipers.

​A tactical team talk by Coach Paul and Vinny the Enforcer took place at half-time and the boys were back on the pitch for the 2nd half (2nd game). Could they continue where they left off? Well they weren’t going to get away with anything else as just 30 seconds into the half Coach Paul was heard to scream…”DO NOT JOG!!!!!”. In case there is any doubt in this readership I believe he was asking them not to jog.
 
And then a rare event. Was it to be on the pitch? What possibly could be happening? It was Steve Smith. He offered a round of teas and coffees threatening a plague of mothballs as he went to pay :-) - only joking! Much appreciated Steve and Jeremy!
 
Back to the game. The half started strong. A rare corner delivered by Jody was beautifully placed and flashed across Charlies head and just wide. Charlie then went on a surging run, thundered a shot, off the underside of the crossbar, back down (did it cross the line?) bounced off the inside of the path but no goal line technology needed as Cody charged in a buried it into the back of the net. 0-1
 
Three minutes later Charlie was at it again, a speculative long shot, an unfortunate keeper mistake and it was 0-2. Muted celebration from the lads as they were respectful of the unfortunate keeper.
 
Two minutes later – a Charlie rocket. No doubt about that one - 0-3. Again, muted celebration. Discussion on the sidelines on whether he needed to get back on his X-Box, play FIFA 21 and re-learn some moves!
 
And then just three minutes later the debate on the first goal no longer mattered as Charlie score again to make it. 0-4 and complete his hat-trick. At this point he was taken off for a well- earned rest (and probably a rest for the terrorised Stags defence at this point).
 
It made little difference to be honest. Jody picked up again and provided another assist (he had had a few at this point) and delivered a beautiful cross to Cody who scored his second of the day in his new advanced position. 0-5
 
With the Vipers now completely in control every single player on the field were showing their confidence. Sam had been dependable throughout and delivered an excellent corner (every player seems to be able to take them today!), Cameron continued to dominate and Jenko had a lovely well-timed challenge.
 
The last word was left to Charlie though who right at the death and having returned to the field of play and thundered in his 4th to finish the second game 0-6.

​It would be wrong to think this was all one-way traffic. The Stags had played their part and to be fair the score line didn’t reflect the balance of play and it was case of the Vipers simply nailing most of their chances in the 2nd half.
 
Another clean sheet! Thirteen goals scored since we last conceded and most pleasing that every player on the pitch remained disciplined, stuck to the task in hand and played with the right temperament. Brilliant preparation for the final next week and a great confidence builder.
 
Wrap them in cotton wool folks – and try to get some sleep between now and next Saturday.
 
Player of the day went to Sebby – as previously noted he had had his best performance ever in that left back role – great work Sebby!
 
Final word goes to the goalscorers Charlie, Cody, Coach Paul and George “Poncherello”…..