2009/10 Season
Match Reports
8 August: Watford iFC 4-2 Donny R'sonists
I mentioned in the report on the R’sonists’ trip to Worldnet that their general ethos has always been playing for enjoyment whatever the result. A clear reflection of this was Saturday’s trip to face fans’ team Watford IFC. Nine R’sonists made the trip south, including two debutants Allan Riggall and Glyn Law, for this game to be brought up the full eleven on arrival by ‘Dave’ the cousin of a Watford player, and Claire Hendry, a Watford supporter and friend of mine who not only defected for the day but also became the R’sonists first ever female player in the process.
These far from ideal preparations were hindered further as the players arrived at Watford. Nine of the squad arrived on time, but two players, including player-manager Matt Smith, not to mention the kit, were undertaking an unscheduled mystery tour of Watford at the behest of a faltering sat-nav. Eventually they appeared, but by that time there was no time for a warm-up, team-talk or even introductions before the game kicked-off.
With that in mind its perhaps unsurprising that the Donny team were still learning each others names when Watford took the lead. The home side’s forward found space behind the R’sonists back-line; ‘keeper Dave Burkett did brilliantly to get a strong hand to the first shot, but unfortunately another home player was on hand to turn home the rebound.
One nil very quickly became 2-0 as Watford added a second goal in familiar circumstances. And then just over quarter of an hour in it was 3-0 as full-back Louis Bailey got his head to a left wing cross only to inadvertently divert it into the far corner of the R’sonists net. Bailey made amends minutes later with a timely goal-line block, but it was beginning to look like it could end in a very one-sided scoreline.
However, as the half wore on though Donny began to settle, get to grips with game and find their stride and thanks to some neat play in midfield and attack from Andy Sheldrake, Allan Riggall, Claire Hendry, Matt Smith and Glyn Law were beginning to force a few chances. Donny’s passing game was rewarded ten minutes before half-time as a ball over from the left was controlled excellently by our ringer ‘Dave’ and laid off to Allan Riggall who found the net with an excellent low drive.
Late in the half the R’sonists almost reduced the deficit further as Glyn Law was played in from an up-and-under ball into the box by Alan Cullingworth, but unfortunately the home keeper made an excellent stop and it remained 3-1 at the break.
With players tiring and the heat intensifying its perhaps unsurprising that the football in the second half was not as fluid as the first. And equally unsurprising was the fact that Watford with substitutes and familiarity on their side were creating the better chances. They were particularly strong when breaking down the right and added a fourth goal with a pull-back from this side. Dave Burkett had thwarted an initial attack, but Watford had men over when the ball came back across goal and one of these men made it 4-2.
The crossbar saved the R’sonists from falling further behind, but Donny themselves were starting to force a few chances particularly on the break. Manager Matt Smith almost capped a solid performance with a goal as he meandered into the area only to see his shot locked. However, the R’sonists hard work paid off as they pulled a second goal back as another of the R’sonists debutants, Glyn Law, found space in the Watford box to finish well.
All in all a very enjoyable game against one of the R’sonists’ favoured opposition and an impressive performance from the Donny side considering the make-up of the side and the less than ideal build up. The R’sonists look forward to their next fixture with Watford, and also return to action next Saturday to face Preston.
R‘sonists line up (4-4-2);Dave Burkett; Louis Bailey, Glen Wilson, Alan Cullingworth, Alan Brown (‘Stocksy’); ‘Dave’, Allan Riggall, Andy Sheldrake, Claire Hendry; Glyn Law, Matt Smith
These far from ideal preparations were hindered further as the players arrived at Watford. Nine of the squad arrived on time, but two players, including player-manager Matt Smith, not to mention the kit, were undertaking an unscheduled mystery tour of Watford at the behest of a faltering sat-nav. Eventually they appeared, but by that time there was no time for a warm-up, team-talk or even introductions before the game kicked-off.
With that in mind its perhaps unsurprising that the Donny team were still learning each others names when Watford took the lead. The home side’s forward found space behind the R’sonists back-line; ‘keeper Dave Burkett did brilliantly to get a strong hand to the first shot, but unfortunately another home player was on hand to turn home the rebound.
One nil very quickly became 2-0 as Watford added a second goal in familiar circumstances. And then just over quarter of an hour in it was 3-0 as full-back Louis Bailey got his head to a left wing cross only to inadvertently divert it into the far corner of the R’sonists net. Bailey made amends minutes later with a timely goal-line block, but it was beginning to look like it could end in a very one-sided scoreline.
However, as the half wore on though Donny began to settle, get to grips with game and find their stride and thanks to some neat play in midfield and attack from Andy Sheldrake, Allan Riggall, Claire Hendry, Matt Smith and Glyn Law were beginning to force a few chances. Donny’s passing game was rewarded ten minutes before half-time as a ball over from the left was controlled excellently by our ringer ‘Dave’ and laid off to Allan Riggall who found the net with an excellent low drive.
Late in the half the R’sonists almost reduced the deficit further as Glyn Law was played in from an up-and-under ball into the box by Alan Cullingworth, but unfortunately the home keeper made an excellent stop and it remained 3-1 at the break.
With players tiring and the heat intensifying its perhaps unsurprising that the football in the second half was not as fluid as the first. And equally unsurprising was the fact that Watford with substitutes and familiarity on their side were creating the better chances. They were particularly strong when breaking down the right and added a fourth goal with a pull-back from this side. Dave Burkett had thwarted an initial attack, but Watford had men over when the ball came back across goal and one of these men made it 4-2.
The crossbar saved the R’sonists from falling further behind, but Donny themselves were starting to force a few chances particularly on the break. Manager Matt Smith almost capped a solid performance with a goal as he meandered into the area only to see his shot locked. However, the R’sonists hard work paid off as they pulled a second goal back as another of the R’sonists debutants, Glyn Law, found space in the Watford box to finish well.
All in all a very enjoyable game against one of the R’sonists’ favoured opposition and an impressive performance from the Donny side considering the make-up of the side and the less than ideal build up. The R’sonists look forward to their next fixture with Watford, and also return to action next Saturday to face Preston.
R‘sonists line up (4-4-2);Dave Burkett; Louis Bailey, Glen Wilson, Alan Cullingworth, Alan Brown (‘Stocksy’); ‘Dave’, Allan Riggall, Andy Sheldrake, Claire Hendry; Glyn Law, Matt Smith
15 August: Donny R'sonists 2-2 Preston 'B'
Rovers supporters’ team the Donny R’sonists gave a foretaste of things to come on Saturday morning as they played out a draw with a Preston fans’ team. On the grass at Balby Carr the R’sonists and Preston played out an enthralling and very competitive match in exactly the right spirit with just two fouls in the entire 90 minutes.
With a few new faces in the R’sonists squad the home side took a while to settle and Preston had the most of the early possession, but struggled to create genuine chances. However, the visitors did eventually take the lead midway through the half as a Preston forward broke to the byline and his pull-back was unfortunately turned into his own net by defender Matt Harriman. Gradually though the R’sonists grew in confidence and competence and they struck a deserved equaliser before the break as Matty Findlay made space for himself with a great turn before finishing well into the corner of the goal.
In the second half the R’sonists continued where they left off and went ahead from a right wing corner as the ball reached Harriman on the far side of the area and he made amends for his earlier og, by volleying the ball into the far corner of the net. The R’sonists were enjoying their best spell and were only denied a further goal as Findlay was denied by a good save when one on one and Andy Sheldrake struck the crossbar from distance.
Understandably Preston pushed for the equaliser late on, and managed to get it with less than ten minutes remaining. A quickly taken short corner giving a Preston player room just inside the corner of the box and his low shot was again turned home by an R’sonists defender as birthday boy Alan Cullingworth got the unfortunate final touch to make the score 2-2. Stand in keeper Glen Wilson was forced to turn a header over the bar as Preston pushed for a winner, but a draw was a fair result in a game played in exactly the right spirit.
R’sonists line-up (4-4-2):Glen Wilson; Ian McKenzie, Matt Harriman, Rich Plusone, Louis Bailey (Joel Gills); Allan Riggall, Andy Sheldrake, Trevor Charlton, Alan Cullingworth; Matt Smith, Matty Findlay
With a few new faces in the R’sonists squad the home side took a while to settle and Preston had the most of the early possession, but struggled to create genuine chances. However, the visitors did eventually take the lead midway through the half as a Preston forward broke to the byline and his pull-back was unfortunately turned into his own net by defender Matt Harriman. Gradually though the R’sonists grew in confidence and competence and they struck a deserved equaliser before the break as Matty Findlay made space for himself with a great turn before finishing well into the corner of the goal.
In the second half the R’sonists continued where they left off and went ahead from a right wing corner as the ball reached Harriman on the far side of the area and he made amends for his earlier og, by volleying the ball into the far corner of the net. The R’sonists were enjoying their best spell and were only denied a further goal as Findlay was denied by a good save when one on one and Andy Sheldrake struck the crossbar from distance.
Understandably Preston pushed for the equaliser late on, and managed to get it with less than ten minutes remaining. A quickly taken short corner giving a Preston player room just inside the corner of the box and his low shot was again turned home by an R’sonists defender as birthday boy Alan Cullingworth got the unfortunate final touch to make the score 2-2. Stand in keeper Glen Wilson was forced to turn a header over the bar as Preston pushed for a winner, but a draw was a fair result in a game played in exactly the right spirit.
R’sonists line-up (4-4-2):Glen Wilson; Ian McKenzie, Matt Harriman, Rich Plusone, Louis Bailey (Joel Gills); Allan Riggall, Andy Sheldrake, Trevor Charlton, Alan Cullingworth; Matt Smith, Matty Findlay
29 August: Donny R'sonists 5-3 Inter Blades (Sheff United)
Not only an excuse for a cheap pun, but a cause for joy as well as the R’sonists finally notched their first win of the season at the third time of asking. Up against the Sheffield United supporters of the InterBlades at Balby Carr’s Football Centre the R’sonists did things the hard way as they came from behind to notch their first IFA League win of the season.
Early in the game Donny were in danger of emulating the actual Rovers with some neat and impressive football failing to be rewarded with a goal and so despite having the better of the posession they somehow found themselves 2-0 down. The Blades took the lead about fifteen minutes in as a right wing corner was headed home from around eight yards out. And within five minutes they had doubled their lead as a Sheffield player found space on the edge of the box and his shot just eluded Dave Burkett to sneak inside the far post. The R’sonists eventually got the goal their play had deserved in a slightly more route one fashion; Andy Harriman getting on to a through ball to fire home with power from close range.
However, the Blades were not about to roll over and they re-established their two goal cushion with quarter of an hour of the half still to play, making the most of some hesitant defending to make it 3-1. Thankfully though Donny lessened their challenge for the second period as they brought the score to 3-2 with around five minutes of the half to go; Glen Wilson bringing the ball forward from the back and then Trevor Charlton and Matty Findaly combined neatly to work the ball in from the left before the latter found the net from close range.
The second half was to prove an equally close affair, but the R’sonists now had the momentum and they drew level within ten minutes of the restart; Findlay beating the Blades ‘keeper to a through ball and applying a calm finish too for 3-3. Back level the R’sonists continued to move the ball about the better of the two sides and went ahead for the first time in the match with around twenty minutes remaining as Andy Harriman again finished emphatically to make it 4-3. As the match wore on the Blades pushed for an equaliser and were far from out of it until the R’sonists eventually amde the game safe with five minutes to go as Andy Sheldrake picked out the top corner with a well taken goal from the edge of the box.
R’sonists line-up: Dave Burkett; Karl Smith (Jonathan Orridge); Paul Buckle, Matt Harriman, Louis Bailey (Glen Wilson); Ian McKenzie, Trevor Charlton, Andy Sheldrake, Allan Riggall; Andy Harriman, Matty Findlay
Early in the game Donny were in danger of emulating the actual Rovers with some neat and impressive football failing to be rewarded with a goal and so despite having the better of the posession they somehow found themselves 2-0 down. The Blades took the lead about fifteen minutes in as a right wing corner was headed home from around eight yards out. And within five minutes they had doubled their lead as a Sheffield player found space on the edge of the box and his shot just eluded Dave Burkett to sneak inside the far post. The R’sonists eventually got the goal their play had deserved in a slightly more route one fashion; Andy Harriman getting on to a through ball to fire home with power from close range.
However, the Blades were not about to roll over and they re-established their two goal cushion with quarter of an hour of the half still to play, making the most of some hesitant defending to make it 3-1. Thankfully though Donny lessened their challenge for the second period as they brought the score to 3-2 with around five minutes of the half to go; Glen Wilson bringing the ball forward from the back and then Trevor Charlton and Matty Findaly combined neatly to work the ball in from the left before the latter found the net from close range.
The second half was to prove an equally close affair, but the R’sonists now had the momentum and they drew level within ten minutes of the restart; Findlay beating the Blades ‘keeper to a through ball and applying a calm finish too for 3-3. Back level the R’sonists continued to move the ball about the better of the two sides and went ahead for the first time in the match with around twenty minutes remaining as Andy Harriman again finished emphatically to make it 4-3. As the match wore on the Blades pushed for an equaliser and were far from out of it until the R’sonists eventually amde the game safe with five minutes to go as Andy Sheldrake picked out the top corner with a well taken goal from the edge of the box.
R’sonists line-up: Dave Burkett; Karl Smith (Jonathan Orridge); Paul Buckle, Matt Harriman, Louis Bailey (Glen Wilson); Ian McKenzie, Trevor Charlton, Andy Sheldrake, Allan Riggall; Andy Harriman, Matty Findlay
3 October: Inter Blades (Sheff United) 3-4 Donny R'sonists
The R’sonists are blazing a trail at the moment in the world of IFA Supporters’ football after notching up a third straight win in this prequel to the main match at Bramall Lane. The team of Rovers supporters currently in its twelfth year of existence took on the Sheffield United fans team the InterBlades at Sheffield United Cricket Club this morning and triumphed over their local rivals for the second time this season. A 4-3 win following a 5-3 home victory a month ago to make it three wins on the bounce for Donny.
The R’sonists began the first half kicking down the considerable slope with the wind at their backs and they helped make this advantage pay, though they were indebted to ‘keeper Dave Burkett, saving well in a one-on-one, for preventing the home side taking the lead. The R’sonists did strike first though as original R’sonist Greg Sill, returning to the side after six years away, won the ball by the corner flag and pulled the ball back for Rob Newton who squared for Andy Harriman and the keeper come striker blasted the ball into the top corner. Donny made it 2-0 before the break, Newton had already missd one great chance but made ammends when he rounded off a neat move with a low finish past the home ‘keeper.
2-0 up at half-time the R’sonists now had to hold out against the three pronged attack of the Blades, the elements and gravity, and it didn’t start well as United pulled a goal back with a header from a corner. With Donny pegged back the Blades equalised midway through the half as a rare Burkett miskick rolled straight to a Blades midfielder and he chipped the ball into the empty net and with fifteen minutes remaining the Blades took the lead as they broke down the right adn the ball was pulled back to the edge of the box where it was met with some force by an excellent drive to give the Blades a 3-2 advantage and their midfielder his hat-trick.
However as the half had worn on the R’sonists had begun to adapt to the conditions and as they broke through a great run from midfielder James Murray they were handed a chance to equalise from the penalty spot as a United defender handled in the box. Newton took the spot-kick and made no mistake to level the match at 3-3. With just over five minutes to go the R’sonists earnt a corner and took their chance well with the home side unable to clear Matt Harriman pounced and fired home from close range for what would prove to be the winning goal.
R’sonists team (4-4-2): Dave Burkett; Glen Wilson, Paul Buckle, Matt Harriman, Alan Brown (Matt Smith); Greg Sill (Steve Cullingworth), Allan Riggall, James Murray, Alan Cullingworth; Rob Newton, Andy Harriman
The R’sonists began the first half kicking down the considerable slope with the wind at their backs and they helped make this advantage pay, though they were indebted to ‘keeper Dave Burkett, saving well in a one-on-one, for preventing the home side taking the lead. The R’sonists did strike first though as original R’sonist Greg Sill, returning to the side after six years away, won the ball by the corner flag and pulled the ball back for Rob Newton who squared for Andy Harriman and the keeper come striker blasted the ball into the top corner. Donny made it 2-0 before the break, Newton had already missd one great chance but made ammends when he rounded off a neat move with a low finish past the home ‘keeper.
2-0 up at half-time the R’sonists now had to hold out against the three pronged attack of the Blades, the elements and gravity, and it didn’t start well as United pulled a goal back with a header from a corner. With Donny pegged back the Blades equalised midway through the half as a rare Burkett miskick rolled straight to a Blades midfielder and he chipped the ball into the empty net and with fifteen minutes remaining the Blades took the lead as they broke down the right adn the ball was pulled back to the edge of the box where it was met with some force by an excellent drive to give the Blades a 3-2 advantage and their midfielder his hat-trick.
However as the half had worn on the R’sonists had begun to adapt to the conditions and as they broke through a great run from midfielder James Murray they were handed a chance to equalise from the penalty spot as a United defender handled in the box. Newton took the spot-kick and made no mistake to level the match at 3-3. With just over five minutes to go the R’sonists earnt a corner and took their chance well with the home side unable to clear Matt Harriman pounced and fired home from close range for what would prove to be the winning goal.
R’sonists team (4-4-2): Dave Burkett; Glen Wilson, Paul Buckle, Matt Harriman, Alan Brown (Matt Smith); Greg Sill (Steve Cullingworth), Allan Riggall, James Murray, Alan Cullingworth; Rob Newton, Andy Harriman
17 October: Donny R'sonists 2-4 Barnsley SFC
Disappointment for the Donny R’sonists as their recent run of form came to an abrupt hand at the hands of the contemporaries from Barnsley. The R’sonists have been putting in some great performances of late, but began with a distinctly lacklustre first half display on this, their return to Cantley Park. Indeed the R’sonists were two goals down inside the opening ten minutes and it failed to get much better for the Rovers’ supporters team.
Unable to get a grip of the game and becoming stretched in midfield the R’sonists conceded a further two goals before half-time to find themselves 4-0 down at the interval. This prompted a drastic change of tactics from manager Matt Smith with goalkeeper Andy Harriman moved up front, Glen Wilson moved from midfiel into goalkeeping duties and Paul Cuffling reappointed from full-back to central midfield. Early in the second half came an indication that Donny’s fortunes were changing as a Barnsley forward broke free and rounded Wilson only to shin the ball wide of an open goal from inside the six yard box.
Buoyed by this let-off Donny slowly edged their way back into the game and hit back with two goals of their own. The first as Greg Sill took advantage of a weak clearance from the Barnsley ‘keeper to hit a first-time shot into the unguarded net. The second as a long range effort from Andy Sheldrake which beat the visitors’ ‘keeper courtesy of a fortunate bounce. It was to proove too little too late though with the R’sonists unable to add any further goals and slumping to only a second defeat of the season.
R’sonists line-up (4-4-2): Andy Harriman; Paul Cuffling, Matt Harriman, Jonathan Orridge, Paul Buckle (Alan Brown); Graham Moss, Allan Riggall, Glen Wilson, Ian Gostling; Greg Sill (Matt Smith), Ian McKenzie (Andy Sheldrake)
Unable to get a grip of the game and becoming stretched in midfield the R’sonists conceded a further two goals before half-time to find themselves 4-0 down at the interval. This prompted a drastic change of tactics from manager Matt Smith with goalkeeper Andy Harriman moved up front, Glen Wilson moved from midfiel into goalkeeping duties and Paul Cuffling reappointed from full-back to central midfield. Early in the second half came an indication that Donny’s fortunes were changing as a Barnsley forward broke free and rounded Wilson only to shin the ball wide of an open goal from inside the six yard box.
Buoyed by this let-off Donny slowly edged their way back into the game and hit back with two goals of their own. The first as Greg Sill took advantage of a weak clearance from the Barnsley ‘keeper to hit a first-time shot into the unguarded net. The second as a long range effort from Andy Sheldrake which beat the visitors’ ‘keeper courtesy of a fortunate bounce. It was to proove too little too late though with the R’sonists unable to add any further goals and slumping to only a second defeat of the season.
R’sonists line-up (4-4-2): Andy Harriman; Paul Cuffling, Matt Harriman, Jonathan Orridge, Paul Buckle (Alan Brown); Graham Moss, Allan Riggall, Glen Wilson, Ian Gostling; Greg Sill (Matt Smith), Ian McKenzie (Andy Sheldrake)
13 March: Donny R'sonists 4-3 Grimsby Internet Mariners Old Skool
Though Saturday ended triumphantly enough for Rovers supporters, one group of Doncaster fans didn’t enjoy the best of starts to the weekend’s football. Long running supporters team the Donny R’sonists hosted the Grimsby fans of the Internet Mariners Old Skool on Cantley Park on Saturday morning, well, I say hosted. Unfortunately no-one from Doncaster Council turned up to open the changing rooms, leaving the two teams changing in and outside cars in the open field, well, I say changing. Owing to an oversight by the R’sonists, their kit was en route to Whitby.
Thankfully enough shirts, shorts and socks were found for the game to begin though things were not getting any better for the R’sonists as playing into the wind, they trailed by two goals to nil at half-time. Donny had forced chances but they were struggling to get past Grimsby’s excellent veteran keeper. Eventually they did find a way through and goals in quick succession for Lee Drobac, and Andy Sheldrake drew Donny level before Christian McKenzie edged the R’sonists ahead. Grimsby equalised with fifteen minutes to go and looked to have done enough for a draw until debutant Christian cut in from the left and struck a fantastic winning goal.
As ever with these matches, it was a very enjoyable morning’s football played out in the best possible spirit. Viva Rovers’ own Glen Wilson had refereed the game and rarely needed his whistle let alone his cards as both teams played the game the way it should be played. The R’sonists are in action next week with a friendly against Sheffield United’s InterBlades
Donny R’sonists line-up (4-4-2); Andy Harriman; Ian McKenzie, Paul Buckle, Matt Harriman, Alan Brown (Louis Bailey); Allan Riggall, Andy Sheldrake (James Murray), Trevor Charlton, Christian McKenzie; Glyn Law, Lee Drobac
Thankfully enough shirts, shorts and socks were found for the game to begin though things were not getting any better for the R’sonists as playing into the wind, they trailed by two goals to nil at half-time. Donny had forced chances but they were struggling to get past Grimsby’s excellent veteran keeper. Eventually they did find a way through and goals in quick succession for Lee Drobac, and Andy Sheldrake drew Donny level before Christian McKenzie edged the R’sonists ahead. Grimsby equalised with fifteen minutes to go and looked to have done enough for a draw until debutant Christian cut in from the left and struck a fantastic winning goal.
As ever with these matches, it was a very enjoyable morning’s football played out in the best possible spirit. Viva Rovers’ own Glen Wilson had refereed the game and rarely needed his whistle let alone his cards as both teams played the game the way it should be played. The R’sonists are in action next week with a friendly against Sheffield United’s InterBlades
Donny R’sonists line-up (4-4-2); Andy Harriman; Ian McKenzie, Paul Buckle, Matt Harriman, Alan Brown (Louis Bailey); Allan Riggall, Andy Sheldrake (James Murray), Trevor Charlton, Christian McKenzie; Glyn Law, Lee Drobac
May: 'R'sonists in Blaze of Glory' (Cass McLaughlin Shield Report)
Congratulations and a predictable headline for the Donny R’sonists who surprised many, including themselves, to lift the Cass McLaughlin Shield at the weekend. The long running Doncaster Rovers Supporters’ team participated in the six team 11-a-side charity tournament held at Worksop Town’s Sandy Lane ground on Sunday and after a long hard slog across four thirty minute matches the R’sonists triumphed to return to Doncaster with the trophy.
The Cass McLaughin Shield was a charity football tournament held to raise money for the charity Rainbows, which looks after children and families who have been affected by severe illness and also help families come together in the more serious cases of such illnesses. Unfortunately the tournament’s founder himself passed away in the past year, but an ex-member of Sheffield United Supporters’ team the InterBlades took over the organisation of the event and extended an invite to the Donny R’sonists to participate. The invite alone is testament to the high regard which the R’sonists are held for their sporting conduct and approach amongst their fellow supporters’ teams.
The six participating teams were permitted squads of up to 16 players, but injury, and unavailability meant that the R’sonists bowled into Worksop with just a squad of 13 to play their two group games. The first match pitched the R’sonists against McLaughlin United and though the Donny lads dominated they struggled to find a way past the impressive United ‘keeper until late in the game when Marc Cartlidge popped up with a well taken goal for a 1-0 win. The pleasure did not come without some pain though as defender Paul Buckle suffered a hamstring injury leaving the R’sonists with just 12 men for the rest of the tournament.
Next up for the remaining dirty dozen were a decent E.M.U.S. team who raced into a two goal lead, thanks in part to a couple of wayward challenges, full-back Louis Bailey rumoured to have been distracted by the burger van at a crucial moment. However the R’sonists hit back as Cartlidge struck again, curling a glorious finish on the turn to bring Donny back into it, but alas an equaliser eluded them. Still the earlier win was enough to put the R’sonists into the semi-finals.
With legs tiring the semi-final against Netherton United was an evenly matched contest with neither side able to make the breakthrough in half an hour sending the game straight to penalties, with just three kicks each before sudden death. The R’sonists showed a cool nerve with Matt Harriman, Marc Cartlidge and Alan Brown all tucking their spot-kicks away and the accuracy continued into sudden death with Andy Sheldrake, Rob Newton and Paul Cuffling all scoring before Pete the keeper saved, to ensure the R’sonists progressed 6-5 on spot-kicks.
Onto the unexpected final then and the remaining shell of the R’sonists took on Gainsborough Town. With tired legs amongst a small squad Donny spent the majority of the game fending off attacks with occasional attacks on the break. Despite a virtual seige in the final five minutes the R’sonists held out until the final whistle to send the game into extra-time. Still goalless in the final minute of extra-time and the R’sonists were gettings et for another shoot-out when they broke away and a sublime chip from Christian Barker won the game and the tournament for the R’sonists.
After some very moving speeches on the motivation for the tournament and the causes it supported the R’sonists were presented the trophy, providing a very enjoyable end to what has been quite an active season for the supporters’ side. Congratulations and thanks to Matt Smith for steering the side to victory and providing me with the tournament details. Next up for the Donny R’sonists is the annual WorldNET tournament at Leeds University in July.
Man of the Tournament: Matt Harriman, great defending and inspirational leadership
Goal of the Tournament: Marc Cartlidge vs E.M.U.S.
R’sonists Squad: Pete the keeper, Louis Bailey, Alan Brown, Paul Buckle, Matt Harriman, Andy Sheldrake, Paul Cuffling, Ian McKenzie, Christian Barker, Rob Newman, Marc Cartlidge, Matt Smith, Callum Reed
The Cass McLaughin Shield was a charity football tournament held to raise money for the charity Rainbows, which looks after children and families who have been affected by severe illness and also help families come together in the more serious cases of such illnesses. Unfortunately the tournament’s founder himself passed away in the past year, but an ex-member of Sheffield United Supporters’ team the InterBlades took over the organisation of the event and extended an invite to the Donny R’sonists to participate. The invite alone is testament to the high regard which the R’sonists are held for their sporting conduct and approach amongst their fellow supporters’ teams.
The six participating teams were permitted squads of up to 16 players, but injury, and unavailability meant that the R’sonists bowled into Worksop with just a squad of 13 to play their two group games. The first match pitched the R’sonists against McLaughlin United and though the Donny lads dominated they struggled to find a way past the impressive United ‘keeper until late in the game when Marc Cartlidge popped up with a well taken goal for a 1-0 win. The pleasure did not come without some pain though as defender Paul Buckle suffered a hamstring injury leaving the R’sonists with just 12 men for the rest of the tournament.
Next up for the remaining dirty dozen were a decent E.M.U.S. team who raced into a two goal lead, thanks in part to a couple of wayward challenges, full-back Louis Bailey rumoured to have been distracted by the burger van at a crucial moment. However the R’sonists hit back as Cartlidge struck again, curling a glorious finish on the turn to bring Donny back into it, but alas an equaliser eluded them. Still the earlier win was enough to put the R’sonists into the semi-finals.
With legs tiring the semi-final against Netherton United was an evenly matched contest with neither side able to make the breakthrough in half an hour sending the game straight to penalties, with just three kicks each before sudden death. The R’sonists showed a cool nerve with Matt Harriman, Marc Cartlidge and Alan Brown all tucking their spot-kicks away and the accuracy continued into sudden death with Andy Sheldrake, Rob Newton and Paul Cuffling all scoring before Pete the keeper saved, to ensure the R’sonists progressed 6-5 on spot-kicks.
Onto the unexpected final then and the remaining shell of the R’sonists took on Gainsborough Town. With tired legs amongst a small squad Donny spent the majority of the game fending off attacks with occasional attacks on the break. Despite a virtual seige in the final five minutes the R’sonists held out until the final whistle to send the game into extra-time. Still goalless in the final minute of extra-time and the R’sonists were gettings et for another shoot-out when they broke away and a sublime chip from Christian Barker won the game and the tournament for the R’sonists.
After some very moving speeches on the motivation for the tournament and the causes it supported the R’sonists were presented the trophy, providing a very enjoyable end to what has been quite an active season for the supporters’ side. Congratulations and thanks to Matt Smith for steering the side to victory and providing me with the tournament details. Next up for the Donny R’sonists is the annual WorldNET tournament at Leeds University in July.
Man of the Tournament: Matt Harriman, great defending and inspirational leadership
Goal of the Tournament: Marc Cartlidge vs E.M.U.S.
R’sonists Squad: Pete the keeper, Louis Bailey, Alan Brown, Paul Buckle, Matt Harriman, Andy Sheldrake, Paul Cuffling, Ian McKenzie, Christian Barker, Rob Newman, Marc Cartlidge, Matt Smith, Callum Reed
July: WorldNET 2010 Report
Forget South Africa 2010, as I’m sure the England supporters amongst you have tried your best to do, the big global summer football tournament took place in Leeds over the weekend just passed and featured our own Donny R’sonists. The team of Rovers supporters were one of 80 sides in action at Boddington Hall in the annual football fan spectacular, WorldNET.
The R’sonists had been handed a tough group for day one of the tournament on Saturday as they came up against some of the IFA’s top sides; those representing Bury, Castlerock and West Brom. First up against Donny were the Lancastrians of Bury ‘B’ and in first of their half an hour, 11-a-side matches, the R’sonists were caught on the back-foot. A fine long-range strike and a well taken one-on-one goal putting Bury 2-0 up at half-time. Undeterred the R’sonists went for broke in the second half and pulled a goal back as Joe Stevens headed home a near-post corner from Callum Smith on the left. However, that was to be as good as it got as Donny began with a 2-1 loss.
Next up for Donny was the Irish side Castlerock and a frustrating game of few chances ultimately ended goalless though the R’sonists were unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty when Stevens was spent sprawling in the area. One last chance to make it into the premier Cup competition (and earn a lie-in) for the R’sonists then as they came up against group favourites West Brom for their final match with the Bury ‘B’ lads on the sideline cheering and singing in support of the Donny side.
In a tough game both teams had chances in the first half with Stevens and Greg Sill both unlucky not to profit from decent opportunities as Donny looked good on the break. West Brom were having the better of possession though, but were held at bay by some fine defending from captain Matt Harriman and veteran full-back Alan Brown (to quote the watching Bury lads; “The silver-fox is bossing it”). When the Baggies did get beyond the defence they were first denied by the alertness of ‘keeper Dave Burkett, who came off his line to make a fine save, and secondly, when they did get the ball in the net, by the offside flag.
In the second half West Brom continued to press and eventually took the lead with five minutes remaining as a deep cross from the left was met by a well taken header at the far-post. The Albion fans, needing a win, now had one foot in Sunday’s Cup competition, but the R’sonists were not ready to roll-over as one West Brom player discovered as he caught a hefty Harriman clearance full in ‘the Baggies’ from close range. With time running out the R’sonists made one last push. Harriman and Glen Wilson exchanged passes in the centre of the field with the former spreading it to Alan Cullingworth on the left, he in turn fed Smith and cutting in from the left the young forward curled a glorious effort just under the bar to send the crowd wild (well, it got a cheer from the Bury lads at least). The full-time whistle sounded soon after with a draw sending both teams into Sunday’s knock-out Plate competition where Donny were drawn against AFC Wimbledon.
And so a rum-soaked and/or sleep-deprived R’sonists squad trudged out in the West Yorkshire morning sunshine for a 9am date with the Dons on pitch 4. A well contested and even game ended goalless and went to extra-time, but without a golden goal to speak of it went on to a penalty shoot-out. Though Marc Cartlidge was to put his effort over the bar, a save from Burkett and a miss from AFC Wimbledon was enough to ensure progression for the R’sonists. The 6-5 victory setting up a second round fixture against Dunfermline.
The Scots had the benefit of an opening round bye and so as the R’sonists were taking first round spot-kicks their opponents had been enjoying a casual breakfast and looked much the fresher for it. However, though the R’sonists’ problems in front of goal continued the Scottish side failed to take advantage of their rest and this game too ended goalless and went on to a penalty shoot-out. Sadly this time luck favoured the R’sonists opponents and after sixteen spot-kicks it was Dunfermline who progressed with a 6-5 win. The Scottish side had played the game in the right spirit and shared a joke throughout, and on the balance of play deserved their win. If Donny’s competition was to end at the hands of any opponent I think we were all quite happy for it to be theirs.
The R’sonists summer football was not quite over as they played out a friendly game with Dundee United, which the Scots won 1-0. The tournament continued though with three further rounds played in both the Cup and the Plate as well as the latter stages of the Veterans Bowl. In the end the Cup tournament was won by Bradford City, who defeated Racing Club Lens in the Final. The Jonny Bramley Plate Final was won by ASB Queens Park Rangers who defeated Leicester City, with AFC Halifax lifting the Big Tam Veterans Bowl with victory over Arsenal Nigeria.
As one half of the R’sonists management/organisation duo may I take this opportunity to not only thank those who turned out for the Donny team over the weekend, but also our opponents and the match officials over the course of the weekend. The majority of those we faced played the game in the right spirit and were a joy to play against. The WorldNET tournament remains a high-point of our calendar, and huge credit is due to the organisers Roger Goodair and John ‘Betty’ Boocock and friends for their continuing hard work.
Donny R’sonists WorldNET 2010 squad; Dave Burkett, Alan Brown, Paul Buckle, Ian McKenzie, Jonathan Orridge, Richard Dillon, Matt Harriman, Glen Wilson, Alan Cullingworth, Paul Cuffling, Marc Cartlidge, Martin Robson, Greg Sill, Joe Stevens, Christian Baker, Callum Smith, Andy Harriman, Matt Smith
The R’sonists had been handed a tough group for day one of the tournament on Saturday as they came up against some of the IFA’s top sides; those representing Bury, Castlerock and West Brom. First up against Donny were the Lancastrians of Bury ‘B’ and in first of their half an hour, 11-a-side matches, the R’sonists were caught on the back-foot. A fine long-range strike and a well taken one-on-one goal putting Bury 2-0 up at half-time. Undeterred the R’sonists went for broke in the second half and pulled a goal back as Joe Stevens headed home a near-post corner from Callum Smith on the left. However, that was to be as good as it got as Donny began with a 2-1 loss.
Next up for Donny was the Irish side Castlerock and a frustrating game of few chances ultimately ended goalless though the R’sonists were unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty when Stevens was spent sprawling in the area. One last chance to make it into the premier Cup competition (and earn a lie-in) for the R’sonists then as they came up against group favourites West Brom for their final match with the Bury ‘B’ lads on the sideline cheering and singing in support of the Donny side.
In a tough game both teams had chances in the first half with Stevens and Greg Sill both unlucky not to profit from decent opportunities as Donny looked good on the break. West Brom were having the better of possession though, but were held at bay by some fine defending from captain Matt Harriman and veteran full-back Alan Brown (to quote the watching Bury lads; “The silver-fox is bossing it”). When the Baggies did get beyond the defence they were first denied by the alertness of ‘keeper Dave Burkett, who came off his line to make a fine save, and secondly, when they did get the ball in the net, by the offside flag.
In the second half West Brom continued to press and eventually took the lead with five minutes remaining as a deep cross from the left was met by a well taken header at the far-post. The Albion fans, needing a win, now had one foot in Sunday’s Cup competition, but the R’sonists were not ready to roll-over as one West Brom player discovered as he caught a hefty Harriman clearance full in ‘the Baggies’ from close range. With time running out the R’sonists made one last push. Harriman and Glen Wilson exchanged passes in the centre of the field with the former spreading it to Alan Cullingworth on the left, he in turn fed Smith and cutting in from the left the young forward curled a glorious effort just under the bar to send the crowd wild (well, it got a cheer from the Bury lads at least). The full-time whistle sounded soon after with a draw sending both teams into Sunday’s knock-out Plate competition where Donny were drawn against AFC Wimbledon.
And so a rum-soaked and/or sleep-deprived R’sonists squad trudged out in the West Yorkshire morning sunshine for a 9am date with the Dons on pitch 4. A well contested and even game ended goalless and went to extra-time, but without a golden goal to speak of it went on to a penalty shoot-out. Though Marc Cartlidge was to put his effort over the bar, a save from Burkett and a miss from AFC Wimbledon was enough to ensure progression for the R’sonists. The 6-5 victory setting up a second round fixture against Dunfermline.
The Scots had the benefit of an opening round bye and so as the R’sonists were taking first round spot-kicks their opponents had been enjoying a casual breakfast and looked much the fresher for it. However, though the R’sonists’ problems in front of goal continued the Scottish side failed to take advantage of their rest and this game too ended goalless and went on to a penalty shoot-out. Sadly this time luck favoured the R’sonists opponents and after sixteen spot-kicks it was Dunfermline who progressed with a 6-5 win. The Scottish side had played the game in the right spirit and shared a joke throughout, and on the balance of play deserved their win. If Donny’s competition was to end at the hands of any opponent I think we were all quite happy for it to be theirs.
The R’sonists summer football was not quite over as they played out a friendly game with Dundee United, which the Scots won 1-0. The tournament continued though with three further rounds played in both the Cup and the Plate as well as the latter stages of the Veterans Bowl. In the end the Cup tournament was won by Bradford City, who defeated Racing Club Lens in the Final. The Jonny Bramley Plate Final was won by ASB Queens Park Rangers who defeated Leicester City, with AFC Halifax lifting the Big Tam Veterans Bowl with victory over Arsenal Nigeria.
As one half of the R’sonists management/organisation duo may I take this opportunity to not only thank those who turned out for the Donny team over the weekend, but also our opponents and the match officials over the course of the weekend. The majority of those we faced played the game in the right spirit and were a joy to play against. The WorldNET tournament remains a high-point of our calendar, and huge credit is due to the organisers Roger Goodair and John ‘Betty’ Boocock and friends for their continuing hard work.
Donny R’sonists WorldNET 2010 squad; Dave Burkett, Alan Brown, Paul Buckle, Ian McKenzie, Jonathan Orridge, Richard Dillon, Matt Harriman, Glen Wilson, Alan Cullingworth, Paul Cuffling, Marc Cartlidge, Martin Robson, Greg Sill, Joe Stevens, Christian Baker, Callum Smith, Andy Harriman, Matt Smith