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Tuesday 18th May - Sedbergh 0-1 Kirkoswald
Sedbergh went into the final game of a very long season, and their 16th in April and May, knowing that only a draw was needed to guarantee 3rd place. Missing for Sedbergh were Craig Gardner, Elliot Oxley and Andrew Burrow. Dean Raw and Bradley Dalzell stepped up from the reserves to cover on the bench.
Sedbergh began the game on the front foot and were dominating the play, even in the warm sunshine and with tired legs. It was Robert Moffat who nearly broke the deadlock when he hit the bar with a looping header. Chris Milburn then fizzed in a vicious volley which smacked a Kirkoswald defender in the face as it was destined for the back of the net. Graham Sowerby's throws were causing constant problems with Sedbergh creating chances for fun but a combination of bad luck, deflections, blocks and good goalkeeping kept the score at 0-0. Half time arrived and Sedbergh had played brilliantly but just couldn't buy a goal
Half Time - Sedbergh 0-0 Kirkoswald
The second half was a similar story with Sedbergh dominating play but, as with the first half, were becoming increasingly frustrated by the bad luck falling upon them up front with our own players unwittingly blocking a couple of goalbound shots. Nathan Close then rifled in a 30 yarder which hit the joint of bar and post. It looked as thought the game was destined to be goaless as Kirkoswald were offering little. However, after some hesitation in the defence, the ball fell to Kirkoswald's prolific striker Sean Elliot and he slotted the ball into the bottom corner. Ben Close was then called into action to make a one handed save as Sedbergh left gaps at the back as they pressed for the equaliser. However, it was just not Sedbergh's day as chance after chance went begging. The final whistle went and Sedbergh hadn't managed to gain the point they needed which, due to Kendal County's victory over Shap, meant the Wanderers dropped to 4th. A Disappointing end to the season but a 4th place finish and glory in the Morrison Cup meant Sedbergh could be extremely pleased and proud with the achievements this year.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 6, Farrell 7, Baines 6, Siemaszko 5, Milburn 6, Sowerby 6, Close N 6, Close R 5, Moffat 6, Gardner S 6, Packham 7*. SUBS - Dalzell 6, Raw 6.
Thursday 13th May - Shap 3-4 Sedbergh
Sedbergh faced Shap for the fourth time this season fresh off the back off a crushing victory on Tuesday. Still missing for Sedbergh were Andrew Burrow and Craig Gardner but Elliot Oxley and Tim Baines returned. With Robert Close struggling with a dead leg, the usual midfield trio was broken up as Rob could only make the bench. Luke Packham stepped into the middle of midfield and Chris Milburn kept his place on the left wing. Shap started the game on a pitch which was a lot softer than those that we have been used to playing on in recent times but it was still bobbly in places. It was Shap who started brighter with Martyn Coleman holding the ball up well and Ryan Veitch patrolling the midfield. The game took 10-15 minutes to really get going and it was all Shap but there was no real firepower as chances were few and far between. Against the run of play, it was Sedbergh who took the lead when the Shap defence failed to deal with a long ball and Luke Packham pounced to slot the ball home from close range. The lead was short lived however as Martyn Coleman reacted quickly to lob the ball over Sedbergh keeper Ben Close who had found himself in no mans land. Sedbergh were coming into the game more now and were looking more likely to make something happen. Graham Sowerby saw a shot cleared off the line and Elliot Oxley was causing constant problems with his running down the channels. The pressure paid off as Nathan Close found himself in acres of space and slammed the ball into the roof of the net for 2-1. Sedbergh were on top now and made it 3 after more poor Shap defending as Shaun Gardner got to the ball to calmly place it past the keeper. It was against the run of play for Shap this time as they were presented with a glorious chance to make it 3-2 when they were awarded a penalty. However, Martyn Coleman dragged the spot kick well wide, although Ben Close looked like he had it covered had it been on target.
Half Time - Shap 1-3 Sedbergh
The second half started in lethargic fashion with both sides struggling to create anything meaningful. Sedbergh were still looking the most likely to make something happen and Graham Sowerby fizzed a 30 yarder just over the bar. There wasn't much to write home about until Shap rattled the Sedbergh post from a header with Ben Close beaten. The last 15 minutes saw the game spark into life again as Shap were awarded a controversial looking penalty as Tim Baines was adjudged to have fouled Martyn Coleman. Having missed the first one, Coleman passed on the responsibility to Ryan Veitch who slotted it home, although Ben Close was agonizingly close to making the save. The 2 goal lead was restored almost immediately however as Graham Sowerby sent over a fantastic first time cross which Tim Baines volleyed home. Sedbergh took their foot off the gas with the game apparently won but faced a nervy final few moments after Michael Robinson hit an unstoppable volley into the top corner which left Ben Close stranded. The 2 then had a little 'cotton eye joe' style dance as limbs were flailing everywhere as Robinson tried to collect the ball to return it to the half way line. After that horseplay, there was little time for any more play as Sedbergh held on for a win which was only by the one goal but was deserved. Sedbergh now occupy third place in the table knowing a win in the final game against Kirkoswald will keep them there.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Baines 7, Farrell 8*, Siemaszko 7, Milburn 7, Packham 7, Close N 7, Moffat 7, Sowerby 7, Oxley 7, Gardner S 7. SUB - Close R 6.
Tuesday 11th May - Sedbergh 7-1 Penrith Rangers
Sedbergh were aiming to build on the Morrison cup win on Friday by beginning a run of the final three league games in 7 days against traditionally tough opposition in Penrith Rangers. Missing for Sedbergh were Andrew Burrow, Elliot Oxley, Tim Baines and Craig Gardner. On a bobbly but decent surface, both teams settled down well and were having a fair share of possesion. However, it was Penrith who were looking the most likely to make something happen and should have capitalised when Ben Close dropped a cross into a crowd of players but luckily Close pounced on it before anyone else reacted. Sedbergh had a few half chances with Shaun Gardner and Luke Packham both firing shots over the bar. These misses were soon forgotten when Shaun Gardner slammed the ball home after brilliant work from Luke Packham. Sedbergh were bouyed by this and soon made it 2 in bizarre fashion. Graham Sowerby hit a harmless looking shot from the edge of the area but the Penrith keeper misjudged his posts and let the ball go thinking it was going wide, only to turn and see the ball find the back of the net. This seemed to give Penrith the kick they needed as they started to come into the game and control possesion. This came to fruition when two Rangers players combined brilliantly to leave one of them clean through and he kept his nerve to dink the ball over the already comitted Ben Close. Penrith were now looking dangerous but the final ball was lacking and Sedbergh weren't troubled enough in the final third. This wastefulness was to prove vital as Sedbergh made it 3-1 before half time. Shaun Gardner scoring with an outrageous backheel after a fumble from the keeper.
Half Time - Sedbergh 3-1 Penrith Rangers
The second half was all about Sedbergh as Penrith struggled to get any foothold on the game. Sedbergh had a glorious chance to make it 4 after Robert Moffat dispossesed a Rangers midfielder and stormed down the wing and played a pinpoint ball across the box which took away the whole Rangers defence and goalkeeper. The ball landed at Shaun Gardner's feet at the back post 2 yards out but the ball took an agonizing bobble and ended up sailing over the bar. This was not to matter though as Luke Packham made it 4 when he volleyed in following some good control. The Rangers keeper was struggling with an injury and Sedbergh sensed this, peppering balls into the box and it was perhaps the keeper's immobility which enabled Shaun Gardner to complete his hat-trick when he got his toe to the ball at the back post and saw the it trickle into the opposite side netting. The Rangers keeper was forced off and was replaced by a sub who you would guess, judging by him not using his hands at all, usually plays outfield! Sedbergh took advantage of this and made it 6 when Luke Packham slotted home Shaun Gardner's pass under the advancing keeper. Penrith then rattled the Sedbergh bar from a free kick before great work from Dan Mason led to Sedbergh being awarded a penalty in the last minute which Paul Farrell stepped up to take and calmly put away for his first of the season and Sedbergh 7th of the game. A deserved victory against an injury ravaged Penrith team.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 6, Farrell 7, Siemaszko 7, Mason 7, Milburn 6, Sowerby 6, Close R 7, Close N 6, Moffat 8*, Gardner S 7, Packham 8. SUB - Gardner T 6.
Friday 7th May - Barnoldswick Town 2-4 Sedbergh - Morrison Cup Final
Sedbergh were able to put their recent poor form in the league behind them as they travelled to Settle for the Morrison cup final against tough opposition in Barnoldswick Town. With a full strength squad to choose from for the first time in many many games, manager Dan Mason had some tough decisions to make. Arriving an hour and a half before kick off, Sedbergh had time to have a kick about and a thorough warm up from Coach and Physio Dave Baines. Kick off approached and there was nervousness amongst the boys as to who would be in the starting line up and who would be the ones missing out. It was heartbreak for Elliot Oxley, Craig Gardner and Chris Milburn who were the three who found themselves on the bench. Decisions made, Sedbergh set out to bring the trophy home to the army of fans who had travelled down to lend their support.
Sedbergh looked nervy in the first 10 minutes with passes going astray and tackles being missed. Barnoldswick on the other hand were zipping it about nicely and were getting stuck in to Sedbergh. However, the 2 goalkeepers were untroubled for these opening exchanges as both teams tried to suss each other out and find their own feet. It was Barnoldswick who created the first meaningful chance as a striker was clean through on goal following a pinpoint pass, however Ben Close stayed large and spread himself to make the save with his legs to keep the score at 0-0. Shaun Gardner then fired in a left footed snapshot which had the Barnoldswick keeper scrambling at his near post before Nathan Close then sliced a shot wide with perhaps a little bit more time than he thought. A few half chances came and went and it looked as though we were going to reach half time goaless. However, with 2 minutes to go, Sedbergh were awarded a penalty following a handball from a Barnoldswick defender. Having scored against Wetheriggs from the spot, Aaron Siemaszko stepped up and following some horse play from the Barnoldswick keeper, slotted it home calmly to send the crowd wild and to give Sedbergh a 1-0 half time lead.
HALF TIME - Barnoldswick Town 0-1 Sedbergh
Following a rousing half time team talk, Sedbergh emerged fired up and showed a huge difference in their performance in the second half. However, it was Barnoldswick who almost immediately equalised as Tim Baines overan the ball and was dispossesed and a Barnoldswick striker found himself clean through. Ben Close came for it, but after a moments hesitation, couldnt get there in time but luckily turned around to see this same striker unbelievably put the ball wide with the goal gaping. A let off for Sedbergh. This spurred on the boys and Sedbergh started to dominate and take control of the game, Shaun Gardner and Andrew Burrow were working hard and causing the defence problems and the midfield trio of Robert Close, Nathan Close and Robert Moffat were stamping their authority and were giving nothing away. Sedbergh took a deserved 2-0 lead when a long throw was flicked on by Andrew Burrow and Tim Baines rose highest to fire a header into the back of the net which allowed Sedbergh to believe that perhaps this trophy was theirs. The 2 goal lead only lasted 5 minutes as a striker, who looked offside, managed to get a foot to the ball and volley it past Ben Close. A Sedbergh team of the past year or 2 may have let this get to them, but not these boys. Following a great ball down the line from Graham Sowerby and after great pressure from Shaun Gardner, the Barnoldswick keeper and a defender got in a horrible mix up which ended up with the defender sending his attempted back pass beyond the onrushing keeper and into the net for 3-1. Hold on now boys and its ours. Ben Close had to be on guard to make an instinctive save with his foot from close range after a ball across the box eluded the defence and found itself at the feet of a striker. In true Sedbergh style, we made it nervy and difficult for ourselves when Barnoldswick scored a second with 15 minutes to go. A ball across the box was flicked on and Ben Close came to claim, however, a Barnoldswick man got there first and powered the header home, although it did look like it should have been a Sedbergh free kick for a foul on the keeper
SUBS - Oxley, Gardner C and Milburn on for Burrow, Packham and Moffat.
Sedbergh were holding on well and the defence was coping admirably. A 3-2 victory would have been fantastic, especially considering Barnoldswick had 4 players in the team from their semi-pro first team. However, the boys went one better when Shaun Gardner found himself in acres of space at the edge of the box. He fired a cross-cum-shot from the angle and Elliot Oxley got his foot to it to send the lads and the fans mental. Sedbergh had to call on Ben Close one more time as he raced out to make a one on one save in the final moments. The boys held on, the final whistle came and Sedbergh were jubilant. The crowd went wild and Sedbergh could celebrate bringing home the Morrison cup. A magnificent achievement which just shows how much this team has come on in the last 2 years.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 8, Siemaszko 8, Farrell 8, Baines 9, Sowerby 7, Moffat 7, Close N 7, Close R 9*, Packham 7, Gardner S 8, Burrow 8 - SUBS Milburn 7, Gardner C 7, Oxley 8.
Tuesday 4th May - Sedbergh 0-1 Shap
Sedbergh were aiming to get back to winning ways after coming unstuck on Saturday against Keswick when Shap visited. However, with the cup final in mind, manager Dan Mason made the decision to rest 6 first team players in the shape of Shaun Gardner, Aaron Siemaszko, Paul Farrell, Elliot Oxley, Nathan Close and Andrew Burrow. Starting for only the third time this season was Thomas Gardner and Dean Raw also got a rare start. However, in a tale of 2 squads, Shap arrived with only 10 men due to injuries and suspensions.
The game started in scruffy fashion with Shap having the better of the early exchanges, Martyn Coleman draggin a shot wide in the first 10 minutes. Sedbergh had a chance to take the lead when Robert Close found himself clear in acres of room but he rushed and screwed his shot wide. However, considering their 1 man disadvantage, Shap were battling well and were winning the ball in the key areas. Martyn Coleman then forced Ben Close into a good save when through before Robert Moffat brought Graham Sowerby's pinpoint cross down beautifly but couldnt get a shot off before being tackled at the last. The first half stuttered to a close with both teams battling but struggling on the bobbly surface
HALF TIME - Sedbergh 0-0 Shap
The second half was a similar story with Shap playing on adrenalin and battling hard. Sedbergh's makeshift team struggled to get any foothold in the game in the first 20 minutes but had a great opportunity when the ball fell to Robert Moffat 6 yards out. Unfortunately for Sedbergh, the Shap keeper was equal to it and pulled off a great save. Martyn Coleman was giving Thomas Gardner alot to think about at the back, but to be fair to Tom, he coped well considering he hasn't played much this year. Sedbergh were now creating the better chances and Craig Gardner put a free header wide from 6 yards.
SUBS - Siemaszko and Gardner S on for Milburn and Packham
Shaun Gardner then made an almost immediate impact when he rose majestically to hammer a bullet header past the keeper only to see the ball crash off the crossbar. The game looked destined to end goaless until Shap's prolific striker Martyn Coleman found the ball at his feet and smashed the ball past Ben Close with 10 miunutes to go.
SUB - Close N on for Raw
Shap could have then made it 2 as Coleman, again, found himself clear but blazed his shot over the bar when it looked easier to score. All in all, disappointment for Sedbergh considering the missed chances but fair play to Shap who battled for their lives with only 10 men and came away with a priceless victory which moves them above Sedbergh for the time being.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 6, Gardner T 6, Baines 6*, Mason 5, Raw 6, Moffat 6, Close R 6, Sowerby 6, Milburn 6, Packham 6, Gardner C 6. SUBS - Gardner S 6, Close N 6, Siemaszko 6.
Saturday 1st May - Keswick 2-0 Sedbergh
Sedbergh made the long trip up to Keswick in confident mood after some good recent results. Almost at full strength, Sedbergh were only missing Paul Farrell and Chris Milburn, although Craig Gardner didnt arrive until 15 minutes into the second half due to work comitments.
After all the recent dry weather, the game began in pouring rain which lasted for most of the game meaning the ball was zipping about off the surface. Sedbergh began slugishly and keswick were on the offensive from the off, playing some neat football as Sedbergh struggled to get hold of the ball. Ben Close had to make a good low save after 10 minutes to keep Keswick at bay but the pressure showed as a ball across the box wasn't dealt with and a striker managed to slot it through Ben's legs. Sedbergh never really settled, although Shaun Gardner did have a great chance to equalise but put his shot over the bar from the edge of the box. Keswick were on top and Ben Close was called upon again to beat away a header from a corner. Half time came with Sedbergh still in the game but struggling to create anything.
HALF TIME - Keswick 1-0 Sedbergh
Unfortunately for Sedbergh, the second half was a similar story. Tiredness is perhaps beginning to creep up on everybody after playing so many games in such a short space of time. Keswick were constantly causing problems but did not really create many clear cut chances until they earned a corner after 60 minutes. The ball was wipped in and a midfielder got in at the front post, unmarked, to flick the ball home to make it 2.
SUBS - Packham and Gardner C on for Mason and Burrow.
Sedbergh seemed to get into the game a bit more in the final 10 minutes, with Luke Packham looking dangerous down the wing. Sedbergh forced 3 or 4 corners and were unlucky when a brilliant ball in from Craig Gardner evaded everybody by inches as it flew across the six yard box. All in all, Sedbergh were not at the races and it was a well deserved victory for Keswick
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 6, Siemaszko 7, Baines 7*, Mason 5, Sowerby 5, Burrow 5, Close N 5, Close R 5, Moffat 5, Oxley 6, Gardner S 6. SUBS - Gardner C 6, Packham 7.
Thursday 29th April - Penrith Rangers 1-2 Sedbergh
Sedbergh travelled up the M6 to Penrith for the second time in 3 days, this time to face High Sheriffs Cup winners Penrith Rangers on Frenchfields. Missing for the Wanderers were Aaron Siemaszko, Paul Farrel, Chris Milburn, Andrew Burrow, Dan Mason and Bradley Dalzell so Sedbergh had to make a few changes. Bryan Beagan-Taylor and David Wilson stepped up from the reserves to take their places on the bench and Dean Raw and Elliot Beagan made the starting line up. With Dan Mason missing, Ben Close took on the role of temporary gaffer.
With Ben Close, Graham Sowerby, Craig Gardner, Elliot Beagan and Elliot Oxley all struggling with niggling injuries, Sedbergh knew a tough game lay ahead. Sedbergh started the game with 10 men as Tim Baines was running late so Elliot Oxley stepped into the breach at centre half. This had little effect as Sedbergh got into their stride almost immediately and were playing some good stuff - as Shap's Michael Robinson may say, a little bit like Real Madrid perhaps? Sedbergh settled well and Tim Baines saw a long range effort creep agonizingly wide. Shaun Gardner then stung the palms of the Rangers keeper with a low drive from the edge of the area, a great save from the keeper to be fair. Sedbergh didn't let these misses put them off and took the lead on 20 minutes when Shaun Gardner played a pinpoint cross into the area and Graham Sowerby kept his concentration to volley home after a misjudgement from the Rangers keeper. Tim Baines then saw his header saved brilliantly and Elliot Oxley and Graham Sowerby both then missed one on ones in quick succession. The Sedbergh defence and goalkeeper were commanding and were coping well with the threat posed from Rangers. In all fairness though, Rangers were playing some great stuff on the ground but the exertions of Tuesday night were perhaps beginning to show.
Half Time - Penrith Rangers 0-1 Sedbergh
Sedbergh were given encouragement at half time by stand in gaffer Close and continued to control the game in the second half. Robert Moffat fired a brilliant volley from 30 yards which the Rangers keeper, who was having a great game, tipped over. Shaun Gardner then saw a brilliantly directed header superbly tipped wide by the Rangers keeper. Not to be outdone, Ben Close then made a good low save and then saved smartly with his legs at the near post to keep the clean sheet intact.
SUB - Packham on for Beagan
Sedbergh made it 2 when a Graham Sowerby long throw was flicked on by Tim Baines. Elliot Oxley reacted well and got his head to it to loop it over the keeper and into the net. Sedbergh looked to play out the final stages and were looking like keeping a clean sheet until Ben Close let a shot squirm under his body with a minute remaining to make it nervous for the Sedbergh boys. However, the whistle came and, thanks to Carvetii's superb victory over Shap, Sedbergh could celebrate moving up to third in the table.
RATINGS - Close B 7, Raw 8, Baines 7, Gardner C 9*, Moffat 8, Close N 8, Close R 8, Beagan 7, Sowerby 7, Oxley 7, Gardner S 7. SUB - Packham 6
Tuesday 27th April - Wetheriggs 1-3 Sedbergh
Striding headlong into the fixture congestion, Sedbergh travelled to Wetheriggs, who had beaten them 12 days earlier at Fortress Havera. Missing through injury were Paul Farrell and Elliot Oxley. Bradley Dalzell kept his place in the team after his impressive cameo on Saturday against Carvetii.
Sedbergh were slow out of the traps with Wetheriggs playing some brilliant one touch passing football. The midfield were struggling to get hold of the ball and Wetheriggs were enjoying the lions share of possession, although they weren't creating too many goalscoring chances with only one of note in this spell when a striker was clean through and went for the lob but fortunately the ball went high and wide. Sedbergh began to get a foot on the ball and scored the games opening goal. Robert Moffat charged down a clearance and suddenly found himself clean through on goal. With all the Sedbergh team ready for the ball to end up on the road, Bully suprised us all by calmly wrong footing the keeper and slotting the ball into the bottom corner. This obviously upset Wetheriggs as they then battered Sedbergh in every sense for the next 20 minutes and grabbed a deserved equaliser when a stiker beat Ben Close at his near post with a powerful strike.
SUB - Siemaszko on for Mason
Sedbergh settled slighty towards the end of the first half and saw a Tim Baines long range effort tipped round the post and a Shaun Gardner volley sail agonizingly over the bar. A tough 45 minutes which had everyone battling saw the game level at half time.
HALF TIME - Wetheriggs 1-1 Sedbergh
The second half was a different story with Sedbergh playing some good stuff. Robert Close, Nathan Close and Robert Moffat were bossing the midfield and were playing the ball well. Andrew Burrow had a couple of half chances and Robert Close put one wide from long range. The Sedbergh defence were coping admirably with everything Wetheriggs threw at them, which was just as well as Ben Close is hopelessly out of form at the moment.
SUB - Sowerby on for Gardner C
The turning point came in the 75th minute when Sedbergh were awarded a soft penalty following a nudge on Shaun Gardner. After missing his last 2, Shaun handed the responsibility to Aaron Siemaszko who calmly slotted it home to give Sedbergh a deserved 2-1 lead. Sedbergh held on well and made sure of the points after a short backpass let Shaun Gardner steal in to take it round the keeper and send it into the empty net. Another great performance from Sedbergh which, coupled with Keswick's draw at Carvetii, now means Sedbergh could finish the season in 2nd place.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 5, Mason 5, Gardner C 7, Baines 7, Milburn 8, Dalzell 7, Moffat 7, Close R 7, Close N 7, Gardner S 7, Burrow 7. SUBS - Siemaszko 8*, Sowerby 6.
Saturday 24th April - Sedbergh 4-1 Carvetii Utd
Sedbergh faced local rivals Carvetii on a hot afternoon with both teams fielding depleted squads. Missing for Sedbergh were Aaron Siemaszko, Craig Gardner, Robert Moffat, Luke Packham, Elliot Oxley and Andrew Burrow. Chris Milburn returned after 3 games out and Elliot Beagan, Dean Raw and Bradley Dalzell stepped up from the reserves.
In a frenetic opening, Sedbergh were quickest out of the traps and were enjoying alot of the early possession. On a difficult pitch, the Wanderers were playing some good stuff and were 1-0 up after 10 minutes when a great looking cross was headed home at the back post by Shaun Gardner, it was a good finish under pressure, although it may have been a penalty for Sedbergh if the ball hadn't found the back of the net as Shaun appeared to have been pushed when jumping for the header. This gave Sedbergh the impetus and they continued attacking and Robert Close was unlucky not to make it 2 as he was put clean through on goal, only to see stand in Carvetii keeper Martin Cairns pull of the save. Sedbergh were camped in the Carvetii half and soon made it 2 following great work from Shaun Gardner who pulled the ball back for Nathan Close to slam home from 10 yards with aplomb. Shaun Gardner then saw 2 chances go amiss as Martin Cairns made a great reaction save from a header but was then helpless to stop a rasping Gardner volley fly past him, however he was happy to turn and see it thunder off the crossbar. Another Sedbergh chance came as Graham Sowerby was put through following a neat flick from Shaun Gardner but fired his shot wide. Dale Metcalfe then had Carvetii's first chance as he stormed through from midfield but ended up taking the ball too wide and could only hit the post with Ben Close beaten. Sedbergh took advatage of this scare and made it 3 with Nathan Close ghosting in at the near post to prod home a Graham Sowerby long throw.
Sub - Dalzell on for Farell
Carvetii then had the chance to pull one back when they were awarded a penalty following a Nathan Close handball. Scott Allinson stepped up to fire home, Ben Close guessing right but the accuracy and power on the shot meant it was only ever ending up in the back of the net. Carvetii could have made it tense before half time as Ben Close fumbled a straight forward shot through his legs but luckily managed to get back to the ball before a Carvetii striker to avoid the embarassment.
HALF TIME - Sedbergh 3-1 Carvetii Utd
Carvetii made changes in the second half with Eddie Winbow taking his place in goals to allow Martin Cairns to return to his familiar midfield role in place of the injured Ollie Park. This gave the men from Parrot park a bit more freedom and creativity and this showed as they enjoyed more of the ball and created a few more chances. Bradley Dalzell was causing problems down the wing with some hard work and probing runs and this helped towards Sedbergh getting the games killer goal when Tim Baines headed home another Graham Sowerby long throw. It was a controversial goal as Tim appeared to have commited a clear foul on Simon Parkin but the ref saw nothing wrong and allowed the goal to stand. Carvetii then had a few half chances, including a Martin Cairns header before the same player had a great opportunity to pull one back when presented with an open goal following Ben Close's misjudgement. However, Cairns screwed the ball over the bar to let the Wanderers off the hook. The game petered out in the last 10 minutes as the hot weather and pitch took its toll on both sets of players and Sedbergh held on for the victory.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 5, Farrell 6, Baines 8*, Mason 7, Milburn 7, Sowerby 7, Close R 6, Raw 7, Close N 8, Beagan 7, Gardner S 8. SUB - Dalzell 7.
Thursday 22nd April - Kendal Celtic 2-3 Sedbergh
Sedbergh faced their second game in Kendal in 3 days hoping to build on the last gasp victory over County. Missing Aaron Siemaszko, Elliot Oxley and Chris Milburn through injury, Sedbergh had to make a couple of changes with Dean Raw, Elliot Beagan and George Close stepping up to help out.
After arriving at Jubilee on the team bus, Sedbergh got straight into a quick warm up and team talk before getting the game underway. Keeping the ball on the deck, Sedbergh enjoyed the early possession but the pitch was dry and bobbly so it was difficult to put any meaningful passages of play together. The enjoyment of this early possession was short lived however as a long ball eluded the whole Sedbergh defence allowing a Celtic striker to nip in and put the ball through Ben Close's legs to make it 1-0. Sedbergh rallied and were soon level after the ball fell to Luke Packham at the back post who was completely unmarked. Luke had all the time in the world to prepare himself and put a pinpoint ball to the back post for Andrew Burrow to stab home. Dean Wicks then made 2 or 3 great saves and Robert Moffatt fired a rasping volley just over the bar as Sedbergh pressed. However, another long ball and some hesitation in the defence let Celtic in at the back post to make it 2-1. Again though, the lead was short lived as Sedbergh equalised through Robert Close who controlled Craig Gardner's free kick before firing a left foot volley in at the near post. Sedbergh were dominant now and were playing some good football but the luck in the final third was just deserting us. It did not matter though as Andrew Burrow scored his second of the game, taking down Shaun Gardner's pass and firing past the keeper with his left peg into the bottom corner.
HALF TIME - Kendal Celtic 2-3 Sedbergh
The second half was a story of total domination by Sedbergh but again, a combination of bad luck, solid defending and good goalkeeping kept the Wanderers at bay.
SUBS - Beagan and Raw on for Burrow and Packham.
The best chances of the second half fell to Shaun Gardner and Dean Raw. Shaun saw Dean Wicks pull off a great one on one save and Dean saw his lob drift just wide. The Sedbergh defence was largely untroubled as the Wanderers held on for a nervy but deserved victory.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Farrell 7, Gardner C 7, Baines 8*, Sowerby 6, Packham 7, Close N 7, Moffatt 7, Close R 6, Burrow 7, Gardner S 6. SUBS Beagan 6, Raw 6.
Tuesday 20th April - Kendal County 2-3 Sedbergh
After the jubilation of reaching the Morrison cup at the weekend, Sedbergh returned to league action at fierce rivals Kendal County. Having not beaten County for a bloody long time, the omens weren't good. Missing through injury was Chris Milburn and also missing was Elliot Oxley who was on fire service training.
Sedbergh began slowly and it was all one way traffic as County dominated possession, peppering the Sedbergh box with balls but the Sedbergh defence held firm and managed to repel any attack that County were throwing at them. Sedbergh began to get into the game more and were beginning to see alot of the ball and were using it nicely. This paid as Sedbergh took the lead after 15 minutes when the ball dropped to Graham Sowerby who took a touch before hammering it home from 25 yards with his left foot. Sedbergh built on this and soon made it 2. Tim Baines flicked on a loose ball and Craig Gardner was in the right place at the right time to divert it home past the keeper. Ben Close then made a good save with his foot from Daniel Ferguson from a tight angle before Robert Moffat then cleared off the line. It was turning into end to end football with both teams playing some nice stuff but also showing fierce commitment and getting stuck into the job at hand. The half time whistle arrived with the Wanderers in a great position.
HALF TIME - Kendal County 0-2 Sedbergh
The second half was much of the same with County coming into it a bit more but the Sedbergh defence was holding firm. Robert Close was bossing the midfield and Shaun Gardner was holding the ball up well as County became increasingly frustrated at their lack of goals and were beginning to lose their shape, more often than not, taking things out on the referee. However, County gave themselves hope when Jimmy Ellwood rose unmarked to send a powerful header into the top corner from 6 yards.
Subs - Burrow on for Gardner C and Mason on for Packham
No sooner had the subs been made, Sedbergh lost Aaron Siemaszko to injury and with no one else left on the bench, had to ride out the last 20 minutes with only 10 men. Almost immediately after he had he left the pitch, County equalised following more sloppiness from Sedbergh, allowing a midfielder to ghost into the box and get a toe end on a ball across the box. Ben Close then made a fantastic low save from a header to keep it at 2-2 which was probably just as well as he was flapping at just about everything else to be honest. Sedbergh seemed to be hanging on for a point until Nathan Close rose at the back post following a Tim Baines flick to divert the ball expertly into the far corner off the post to spark jubilant celebration amongst the Sedbergh boys. The final whistle soon followed and Sedbergh had claimed their historic win.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 6, Farrell 7, Siemaszko 7, Baines 8, Sowerby 7, Packham 7, Moffat 7, Close N 7, Close R 8*, Gardner S 7, Gardner C 7. SUBS - Burrow 6, Mason 4.
Saturday 17th April - Sedbergh 6-1 Gargrave - Morrison Cup Semi Final
Sedbergh had the chance to forget about the rigours of the league for one weekend and concentrate on trying to claim a place in the Morrison cup final. Only Gargrave, a totally unknown quantity, stood in the way of the Wanderers. Welcoming back Andrew Burrow and Elliot Oxley to the squad, Sedbergh were almost at full strength with only Chris Milburn missing.
The game began in warm, bright sunshine on a much improved pitch after we managed to get it watered and rolled. Sedbergh began the game on the front foot and were having most of the play with Robert Moffat coming close when firing in from the edge of the area, the Gargrave keeper making a smart save. It was all one way traffic and Sedbergh were peppering balls into the Gargrave box but were just lacking that final touch or bit of luck. Sedbergh were playing some great football and it paid after 15 minutes as Robert Close rose like a salmon at the back post to nod home Aaron Siemaszko's perfect cross. Gargrave were offering little and the play was all Sedbergh's who then had a great opportunity to make it 2-0 when they were awarded a penalty following a push on Andrew Burrow. However, Shaun Gardner didn't get a clean connection on the ball and the Gargrave keeper made an easy save. The disappointment was short lived though as a long Luke Packham throw was diverted into his own net by an unlucky Gargrave defender. Against the run of play, Gargrave pulled one back with the winger firing a neat finish into the bottom corner following slack marking from a set play. Sedbergh didn't let this affect them though and went almost straight up the other end to restore their 2 goal cushion. Aaron Siemaszko fired a long ball forward and Shaun Gardner was onto it in a flash to fire a sweet left foot drive into the bottom corner. It was soon 4 as Sedbergh began to run riot after some great play between Rob Close, Shaun Gardner and LukePackham led to Andrew Burrow hammering a brilliant finish into the top corner.
HALF TIME - Sedbergh 4-1 Gargrave
The second half was more of the same with Gargrave barely getting into the Sedbergh half. The whole team was working their socks off and were totally dominant in every area. Chances came and went with the Gargrave keeper being kept very busy. It took until the 65th minute for Sedbergh to make it 5. The ball was bobbling around from a corner and fell to Tim Baines on the edge of the area who fired it towards goal. It was looking easy for the keeper until Shaun Gardner stuck out a toe end to divert it past the already comitted goalkeeper. The final goal came moments later and it completed a hat-trick for Shaun Gardner who picked up the ball on the edge of the area before placing a precise side footed shot into the bottom corner. Ben Close then had to make a one on one save late on for one of his only touches of the ball in the whole game. A great day for the Wanderers which is going to give us a real chance of some silverware.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Siemaszko 7, Farrell 7, Baines 7, Sowerby 7, Packham 7, Close N 7, Moffatt 8, Close R 8*, Burrow 8, Gardner S 8. SUBS - Gardner C 7, Oxley 6, Mason 5.
Thursday 15th April - Sedbergh 0-2 Kendal County
After a good win on Tuesday night, Sedbergh faced local rivals Kendal County high on confidence. Well into the huge run of games coming up, Sedbergh had a few injury concerns with Elliot Oxley and Andrew Burrow missing. Craig Gardner returned on the bench but there were also fitness concerns over Shaun Gardner and Aaron Siemaszko.
After getting the pitch rolled on Wednesday morning, it was in slightly better condition but was still far from ideal. This took its toll as Shaun Gardner, suffering from a slight hamstring strain before the game, was forced off after no more than 10 minutes.
SUB - Raw on for Gardner S
By this time Sedbergh were already 1-0 down after some poor marking let Daniel Ferguson in at the back post to slot home. It was all Kendal County after this but the pitch ensured that no further clear cut chances could be created as it was difficult to play good football. However, County were then awarded a penalty as Paul Farrell was adjudged to have fouled a county striker in the area. Ollie Wilson stepped up and fired a powerful spot kick to Ben Close's right. Close guessed correctly and nearly pulled off a great save but the power in the shot ultimately led to it ending up in the back of the net for 2-0. This was to be the final action of note in the first half.
HALF TIME - Sedbergh 0-2 Kendal County - SUB - Mason on for Milburn
The second half was poor with Sedbergh coming into the game a bit more but with no real goal threat. Ben Close made 1 good save towards the end but there really isn't much more to say. The pitch is playing havoc with our football at the moment but with only 3 home games left, there is still chance of picking up a decent amount of points in our away games on decent pitches.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 6, Milburn 5, Farrell 6, Siemaszko 6, Baines 7*, Sowerby 5, Close N 5, Moffat 5, Close R 6, Packham 6, Gardner S 6. SUBS - Raw 5, Mason 6.
Tuesday 13th April - Sedbergh 3-0 Burneside
After an awful performance on Saturday, Sedbergh knew they had to pull their fingers out against a vastly improved Burneside team. Still missing through injury were Craig Gardner and Andrew Burrow but Sedbergh welcomed back defender Tim Baines following his jaunt to Bristol.
On a pretty awful pitch, Sedbergh started brightly for once and were having all the early possession and perhaps should have taken the lead when Shaun Gardner headed wide from close range. However, Burneside nearly took the lead following a mix up between Aaron Siemaszko and Ben Close which lead to a striker getting a toe in but fortunately the ball hit the post.
SUB - Packham on for Oxley
Sedbergh then came mightily close to taking the lead when Shaun Gardner curled a brilliant shot from 30 yards which the keeper superbly tipped over the bar. Ben Close then had to get down at a strikers feet twice in 5 minutes to keep the score at 0-0. The 0-0 scoreline was short lived after this however as Sedbergh took the lead with Luke Packham firing in a brilliant low drive from the corner of the box which beat the keeper at his near post. Sedbergh could have added to their lead when Shaun Gardner had a free header in the box but the Burneside keeper made a good low save to keep the ball out.
Half Time - Sedbergh 1-0 Burneside
Sedbergh continued where they left off in the first half and were quick out the traps, keeping control of the ball well on the bobbly surface and playing some great football. Milly, Az, Baino and Faz at the back were defending brilliantly and Ben Close was solid in nets as Sedbergh clicked into gear. It was to tell as it was 2-0 10 minutes into the second half. Following a trip on Chris Milburn, everyone stopped expecting the whistle but Robert Close was alert (for once) and latched onto the ball meaning the ref played an excellent advantage. Sedbergh made it count with Rob Close firing over a brilliant left foot cross which landed right on the foot of Shaun Gardner who made no mistake, volleying in off the post from 10 yards. Sedbergh were rarely troubled and capitalised by making it 3 from a most unlikely source. Graham Sowerby finally bagging his first goal in a Sedbergh shirt, sidefooting home cooly from 10 yards following good work from Luke Packham. Sedbergh held out for the clean sheet and thoroughly deserved the win. A marvelous performance on an awful pitch which was made better following the dross that was witnessed on Saturday.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Milburn 7, Siemaszko 7, Baines 8, Farrell 7, Close R 7, Moffat 7, Close N 8, Oxley 6, Sowerby 7, Gardner S 7. SUB - Packham 8*
Saturday 10th April - Sedbergh 4-3 Coniston
After the disappointment on Thursday night, Sedbergh faced second bottom of the league Coniston hoping to get back on track. Getting the players down an hour before kick off to flatten the pitch, the mood was relaxed in the sunshine. Missing through injury still were Andrew Burrow and Craig Gardner and Tim Baines was still away. Sedbergh welcomed back Aaron Siemaszko to the squad from that which faced Wetheriggs.
Sedbergh started the game in typical lethergic fashion and struggled to get any foothold on the game with Coniston having all the early possession but without causing any problems to the Sedbergh defence. Elliot Oxley and Shaun Gardner were holding the ball up well up front but, much like Coniston, were not really causing any problems. However, this changed after 15 minutes when a great ball across the box was turned in at the back post by Robert Moffat for his first of the season........or was it? The thief that is Shaun Gardner cruelly snatching this away from Moffat when he sent it over the line from 0 yards with his knee, when not even looking at the ball! It was harsh on Moffat and even harsher in the changing rooms after when Gardner claimed the goal as his own and refused to even entertain the idea of letting Moffat have the glory! Coniston then had a great chance to equalise when the Luke Chadwick lookalike up front when through on goal but couldn't beat Ben Close who made the one on one save. Moffat's despair was short lived as he rammed home Sedbergh's second after great work from Elliot Oxley who beat his man superbly before firing across the box for Moffat to steer home, unmarked, from 10 yards.
Half Time - Sedbergh 2-0 Coniston
After being totally in control in the first half, the second could not have been more different as Sedbergh lost their shape and discipline. Within 30 seconds of the restart, Coniston had pulled it back to 2-1 following poor defending and bad goalkeeping, allowing the Coniston winger to drive into the box unchallenged before passing across for a forward to slot into the empty net. Coniston were on top now and were playing far better than their league position suggests. However, against the run of play, Sedbergh made it 3-1 with Rob Close sending in a shot which deflected off a defender and looped into the net. Sedbergh couldn't build on this and it was Coniston who scored the next goal with a midfielder latching onto a headed clearance and firing an unstoppable volley past Ben Close from 25 yards.
SUBS - Packham and Raw on for Sowerby and Mason
The game's talking point came moments later when Coniston made it 3-3 following a mix up in the defence. Tempers boiled over with Ben 'Bruno' Close and Paul 'Tyson' Farrell arguing about who was to blame for the goal which ended with the pair coming to blows and wreslting in the penalty area. The pair having to be seperated by team mates and receiving a stern word from the referee. An embarrasing moment for the Wanderers. However this was not to matter as Shaun Gardner scored a superb winner, beating his man with ease before bursting into the box and finishing brilliantly with the outside of his right foot.
SUB - Beagan on for Oxley
Sedbergh held on against a resolute Coniston team for a barely deserved win.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 6, Milburn 6, Farrell 6, Mason 6, Siemaszko 7, Sowerby 5, Close N 6, Close R 6, Moffat 8*, Oxley 7, Gardner S 7. SUBS - Raw 5, Packham 7, Beagan 5.
Thursday 8th April - Sedbergh 1-2 Wetheriggs Utd
Sedbergh hosted fallen giants Wetheriggs Utd knowing that a tough game lay ahead. Missing Craig Gardner and Andrew Burrow through injury and with Tim Baines and Aaron Siemaszko also missing, Sedbergh had to make a few changes.
The game began on a less than perfect pitch after recent heavy rain and the reserves game the night before. The pitch played a huge part in contributing towards a very scrappy game with few clear cut chances. The early exchanges were all low on quality as both teams struggled to keep control of the ball but it was Wetheriggs who took the lead after 15 minutes when a fizzed ball across the box was turned home by a midfielder from 8 yards. Sedbergh had a glorious opportunity to equalise moments later when great work from Shaun Gardner saw him whip a brilliant cross to the back post but unfortunately stand in centre half Elliot Oxley put his header wide. Ben Close then had to get down to make a good reaction save at the near post to keep it at 1-0. That was all the action in a tepid first half with both teams looking out of sorts.
Half Time - Sedbergh 0-1 Wetheriggs
Sedbergh began the second half strongly and were on top from the off. Getting the ball under control well and playing some good football, it seemed only a matter of time before the equaliser came. Half chances came and went with no luck but after a Graham Sowerby long throw was met by the head of Shaun Gardner who saw it loop over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net. Sedbergh were now well on top and should have been able to push for another but a combination of resolute defending and solid goalkeeping kept them at bay, with Robert Moffat having the best chance after bursting through on goal from midfield but putting his shot just wide under pressure from a Wetheriggs defender. After all Sedbergh's pressure, it was Wetheriggs who took the lead against the run of play with a striker nipping in to get a toe to a cross which crept in at the far post. Sedbergh pushed for an equaliser but were unable to find one and it was Wetheriggs who claimed the victory which moved them above Sedbergh in the league
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Milburn 6, Farrell 6, Oxley 6, Mason 7, Close N 6, Moffat 7, Close R 6, Sowerby 6, Raw 6, Gardner S 8*. SUB - Packham 6.
Saturday 27th March - Sedbergh 6-1 Kendal Celtic
After some initial doubts about the pitch following heavy rain on Thursday and Friday, the game went ahead after some good groundskeeping from Ben Close and Shaun Gardner on Saturday morning. Missing through injury was Andrew Burrow and missing through humiliation was Danny Flynn who turned out for the reserves. Robert Moffat also missing as he was away at Wolves.
Kendal Celtic came into the game full of confidence and apparently expecting a victory and it was them who started brightest in the opening exchanges and created a good chance when a striker was put clean through and, with Ben Close on the edge of his area, went for the chip but fortunately it sailed wide. Sedbergh got more into the game with Graham Sowerby looking bright down the wings, creating a couple of chances with some great runs. Dean Wicks was saving everything that was being thrown at him, including a brilliant reaction save from Tim Baines' header. However, in the 35th minute he was helpless to stop a Robert Close piledriver from the edge of the box which took a nick off a Celtic defender before finding the back of the net. It kicked Sedbergh into life and a second soon followed, again from Robert Close, slotting home after Shaun Gardner's initial effort was well saved following more good work from Graham Sowerby. Sedbergh came off at half time having put in a very good performance with some great football being played
Half Time - Sedbergh 2-0 Kendal Celtic
Sedbergh came out full of confidence in the second half and thoroughly dominated the first 20 minutes, adding another 2 goals in the process. The first of these, and Sedbergh's third, came from the right foot of central defender Tim Baines who slotted home following a scramble from a Sedbergh corner. The 4th wasn't far behind and it came from Shaun Gardner, although a mention must go to Craig 'Usain Bolt' Gardner who beat 2 men before hammering a rasping 30 yard drive with his left foot which rattled the underside of the bar before falling to Shaun who turned and threaded the ball through the eye of a needle to find the net. Sedbergh then lost concentration at the back as a looped ball over the top caught the defence on the back foot to let a Celtic striker half volley the ball past Ben Close. This gave Celtic a kick up the backside as they came into the game a little more with a striker curling a free kick in which Ben Close had to get down to and push round the post.
SUBS - Mason and Packham on for Milburn and Oxley.
Sedbergh put any hopes of a Celtic comeback on hold though as 2 more goals followed. Shaun Gardner getting his second sliding in at the back post following a great ball from Graham Sowerby. The 6th came shortly after with Graham Sowerby, yet again, wipping in a great ball which Craig Gardner converted with a near post diving header. Celtic created one final chance but Ben Close saved smartly at the near post to keep it at 6-1. A great performance, possibly the best of the season so far, which gives us the confidence going into the tough Carvetii game on Tuesday.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS. Close B 7, Milburn 7, Siemaszko 7, Farrell 7, Baines 9*, Sowerby 8, Close N 7, Gardner C 7, Close R 8, Oxley 7, Gardner S 8. SUBS Mason 6, Packham 6.
Saturday 20th March - Sedbergh 9-1 Dent - Morrison Cup Quarter Final
Sedbergh played local rivals Dent in the quarter final of the Morrison cup knowing that they would face a tough battle as both teams would be desperate to prove a point. The game went ahead despite the pitch containing alot of water as the ball was rolling ok and the ref was satisfied with the conditions. With only Andrew Burrow and Danny Flynn missing, Sedbergh were almost at full strength.
It was a tentative opening to the game with neither team being able to get the ball under control, although it was Dent who were looking the more likely team to make something happen. After a couple of half chances at either end, the games opening goal came after 10 minutes through Robert Close who controlled Aaron Siemaszko's pass and fired into the bottom corner past Ian Mitchell who is still on his way down to it now. However, the lead was short lived as Steve Hoggarth went through and caught Ben Close in no mans land and chipped in from 12 yards to make it 1-1. It could have got worse for Sedbergh as Steve Hoggarth was again given free reign and it took a save from Ben Close to keep it at 1-1. Sedbergh were struggling to break down a resolute Dent team and it took until 40 minutes for the second to come, Shaun Gardner turning well and firing home from 10 yards. The third soon followed as a cross from Nathan Close eluded everybody and hit the back of the net.
Half Time - Sedbergh 3-1 Dent
The second half was a different story with the game being played almost exclusively in Dent's half and it wasn't long before it became 4-1. Shaun Gardner again, tapping in at the far post from Aaron Siemaszko's low driven cross. Shaun was perhaps offside but the ref didn't give it which led to some tempers fraying in the Dent camp. The fifth came from the head of Tim Baines who bulleted the ball past Ian Mitchell from Aaron Siemaszko's brilliantly wipped corner. Sedbergh were strolling now and it was soon 6 as Robert Close grabbed his second of the day firing in from close range following a bit of penalty area pinball. The Sedbergh defence were coping easily with the limited threat being offered but Ryan 'Carlos' Mason almost caused an upset when he toe poked an overhead kick wide from 12 yards.
SUB - Packham on for Close N
Luke Packham then made it 7 shortly after coming on and what an absolute beauty it was as Packham danced through the Dent defence as if it wasn't there beating 5 men before slotting past the keeper. Robert Close then made it 8 and also completed his hat-trick with another neat finish from inside the area
SUBS - Milburn and Mason on for Siemaszko and Moffat.
The 9th and final goal came with 5 minutes to spare as Elliot Oxley got the goal his performance deserved, heading in Graham Sowerby's pinpoint cross at the back post. After a difficult first half, the difference in class and fitness showed as Sedbergh let loose in the second half and if not for some good goalkeeping from Ian Mitchell and some wastefulness from the Sedbergh lads, it could have been alot more. A Semi-final against Gargrave now awaits us on 17th April for a place at Wembley.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Moffat 7, Siemaszko 7, Farrell 7, Baines 7, Close N 7, Gardner C 7, Close R 7*, Sowerby 7, Oxley 7, Gardner S 7. SUBS - Packham 7, Milburn 6, Mason 6.
Saturday 13th March - Lunesdale Utd 0-4 Sedbergh
Sedbergh travelled to a ground where they traditionally walk away with nothing to face a much depleted Lunesdale side compared to previous seasons. Missing through injury were Danny Flynn and Luke Packham and through illness the white Usain Bolt (Craig Gardner). Although Chris Milburn was making his 947th comeback from retirement so it wasn't all bad news.
The game struggled to get going in the windy conditions on the bobbly pitch with both sides struggling to get hold of the ball and do anything meaningful. However it was Lunesdale who were gifted the chance to take the lead on 20 minutes after a clumsy foul from Robert Close gave Lunesdale a penalty. However it was big cousin to the rescue as Ben Close saved the penalty to keep the score at 0-0. It was the only chance of note in an awful first half which saw the teams trudge off with the scores goaless.
Half Time - Lunesdale 0-0 Sedbergh
It was a different story in the second half however as Sedbergh roared into a 4-0 lead within 25 minutes of the restart. The first coming in the opening moments as Shaun Gardner controlled Ben Close's long punt upfield before turning on a sixpence and firing into the top corner. This relieved some Sedbergh nerves and it told as it was soon 2-0. Shaun Gardner yet agin with the goal, and what an absolute peach it was. Graham Sowerby launched a trademark throw-in into the box and Shaun controlled it on his chest before hammering an overhead kick past the helpless Lunesdale keeper. 10 minutes later Shaun completed his hat-trick, diverting Aaron Siemaszko's wayward shot into the net. The Lunesdale keeper was making some great saves to keep the score down, most notably a brilliant double save from Tim Baines and Andrew Burrow. He was helpless to stop the 4th as Shaun completed his great day by controlling and firing into the bottom corner. Paul Farrell was having a great game at the back and topped it off with a crunching tackle which sent Lunesdale's best player off injured. A well deserved booking though Faz and no, we are not paying your fine for you!
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Siemaszko 7, Moffat 7, Baines 7, Farrell 8, Sowerby 7, Close N 7, Burrow 7, Close R 7, Oxley 7, Gardner S 9* - SUB Milburn 6
Saturday 27th February - Sedbergh 2-3 Keswick
Sedbergh faced top of the table and the leagues current form side Keswick knowing they faced a battle on the boggy pitch. Missing were Andrew Burrow, Luke Packham, Elliot Oxley and Danny Flynn through injury but Ben Close returned in goals.
The game started in bright sunshine with Sedbergh creating the first meaningful chance with Shaun Gardner firing in a rasping 30 yard drive which the keeper tipped over the bar. It was the only chance in a scrappy first 15 minutes with both teams struggling with the bobbly pitch. Keswick almost took the lead as Ben Close fumbled a straight forward shot but made amends to block the shot from the rebound. It was the story of the day for Ben unfortunately as he would have struggled to catch a cold, let alone a ball. Keswick did take the lead 25 minutes in with a striker lashing the ball into the bottom corner which gave Ben Close no chance. Keswick should have made it 2 when they had a striker clean through on goal with only Paul Farrell to beat as Ben Close was in no mans land. Luckily Faz's face put him off and he blazed over from 4 yards. Sedbergh roared back into it through Tim Baines' first of the season, slamming in a volley from Aaron Siemaszko's superbly whipped corner. It was then end to end with both keepers being forced into making saves to keep the score at 1-1. Half time came and Sedbergh could be pleased in what was a frustrating afternoon with the referee giving us absoultely nothing.
Half Time - Sedbergh 1-1 Keswick
SUB - Mason on for Moffatt
Sedbergh stormed out of the traps and were 2-1 up in no time after the ball fell kindly to Nathan Close who hammered the ball home from 10 yards. Sedbergh were defending superbly and the whole team was performing fantasticaly to keep Keswick at bay. The referee was still acting like a 12th man for Keswick but Sedbergh were holding on. With 5 minutes to go, Sedbergh were still 2-1 up but had their dreams of victory shattered when a midfielder rose unmarked to head home, although if Ben Close hadnt slipped when coming to catch the ball, it may not have gone in. Sedbergh would have been pleased with the draw but with the last kick of the game, a Keswick striker slotted home following a goalmouth scramble. The final whistle went and Sedbergh's disappointment boiled over with Shaun Gardner and Ben Close both booked after the final whistle for showing dissent towards the shocking referee. All in all, a huge disappointment but a fantastic performance following average to poor performances in our 4 games previous since christmas.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Siemaszko 8, Farrell 8, Baines 9*, Moffatt 7, Milburn 7, Gardner C 8, Close R 9, Sowerby 8, Close N 8, Gardner S 8. SUB Mason 7.
Saturday 20th February - Sedbergh 3-1 Earby Town - Morrison Cup 1st round
Sedbergh played their first game of the season in the Morrison cup since exiting the Craven cup at the first round stage. Missing Ben Close, Luke Packham and Andrew Burrow through injury, Sedbergh had to make changes with Danny Flynn also missing. The game went ahead after some stirling work from Shaun Gardner and Dan Mason to get the pitch playable in the morning, with the boys using old oils drums to start a fire and create heat to defrost the main frozen areas.
The game started in scruffy fashion with neither team able to put many meaningful passages of play together on the bobbly pitch. However that changed after about 20 minutes as Earby took the lead through a brilliantly worked goal. With the midfield being by-passed by some neat passing, the ball was fed out wide where the winger put a brilliant first time cross in which was turned home by the striker on the volley. However, the same striker then turned from hero to villain as he was sent off for kicking out at Craig Gardner. This should have given Sedbergh the impetus to push on but they were struggling to cope with the difficult pitch conditions and were not creating much. Shaun Gardner had a great chance from an inch perfect cross from Nathan Close but he headed against the bar from 6 yards. Shaun made amends minutes later though when he turned his defender and hammered a brilliant left foot shot pas the goalkeeper to make it 1-1. Sedbergh had struggled though and the half time whistle went, leaving the Wanderers to trudge into the dressing room to receive a Rafa style rant from the gaffer.
Half Time - Sedbergh 1-1 Earby Town
The second half started in similar fashion with Sedbergh dominating possession but the final ball was lacking on more than one occasion. The Sedbergh defence didnt have much to do, such was the domination of possession in the midfield and forward areas.
Sub - Raw on for Oxley
The domination paid off on 60 minutes as Shaun claimed his second of the afternoon with a neat finish at the back post after Graham Sowerby's long throw was flicked on by Dean Raw. Paul Farrell was making some barnstorming runs down the wing and found himself in the area with a great chance but his shot was deflected wide for a corner. It was from this corner that Sedbergh made it 3 after the ball fell to Robert Close who had all the time in the world to find the back of the net for his first of the season.
Sub - Milburn on for Sowerby
Sedbergh pressed for more but, again, the final ball always seemed to let us down and no further goals were added. Sedbergh no face Dent at home in the quarter finals on Saturday 20th March.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS: A.N Other 6, Siemaszko 7, Baines 7, Farrell 7, Sowerby 6, Close R 6, Gardner C 6, Moffatt 8, Close N 7, Oxley 6, Gardner S 8*. SUBS Raw 6, Milburn 6.
Saturday 13th February - Carvetii 6-0 Sedbergh - High Sheriffs Cup 1st Round
After some great recent performances, Sedbergh travelled to Carvetii for this cup tie full of confidence. Sedbergh were missing Robert Moffat, Chris Milburn and Ben Close with Nathan Close returning after 2 weeks out to cover for Ben Close in goals. Danny Flynn was making his full debut at right full back.
The game started in typical barnstorming fashion with Elliot Oxley creating the first meaningful chance but he overan the ball and Matt Parkin claimed at his feet. Sedbergh were looking sloppy and were struggling to get the ball under control and keep possession. Carvetii took advantage of this and were playing some good football in the final third with Scott Allison, Craig Barnes and Martin Cairns dominating play. This pressure was to be telling as Scott Allison fired into the bottom corner under no pressure from the Sedbergh defence to give Carvetii an early lead.
SUB - Sowerby on for Packham
It was soon 2-0 as Andy Wilkinson fired in from 18 yards, again under no pressure from the Sedbergh back line. Carvetii were absolutely dominant and weren't giving Sedbergh a sniff. Martin Cairns made it 3 with a delicatly placed shot from 25 yards which evaded Nathan Close and ended up in the onion bag for a 3-0 lead. Nathan Close then brought down Scott Allison in the area to hand Carvetii a penalty with Nathan being booked and Scott Allison then slotting the penalty home to make it 4-0
Half time - Carvetii 4-0 Sedbergh
Sedbergh received a well deserved bollocking at half time and came out in the second half alot brighter and created numerous chances but Matt Parkin in the Carvetii goal was in superb form and was equal to everything being thrown at him. Sedbergh were then awarded their first penalty in over 2 years as Matt Parkin fouled Elliot Oxley and the ref, Stevie Wonder, pointed to the spot. Matt Parkin then made the save of the game to claw Shaun Gardner's powerful spot kick round the post. Sedbergh reject Simon Parkin then made it 5 with a deft header over the oncoming Nathan Close.
SUB - Mason on for Flynn
Andy Wilkinson then made it 6 with a great run and finish. The scoreline was maybe slightly harsh on Sedbergh but the result certainly was not. Sedbegrh had the better of the second half but, in a tale of 2 goalkeepers, Matt Parkin was superb and kept Sedberghs second half onslaught at bay. In all honesty though, this was men against boys as Carvetii thoroughly dominated the play and played some great football in the final third. Sedbergh on the other hand struggled with the basics. We need to put this behind us and get back on track next week in the Morrison cup.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close N 7*, Flynn 4, Siemaszko 4, Farrell 4, Baines 4, Gardner C 4, Close R 4, Burrow 4, Packham 4, Oxley 4, Gardner S 4. SUBS - Mason 4, Sowerby 4.
Saturday 6th February - Appleby 2-5 Sedbergh
Sedbergh travelled up to their traditiaonl bogey ground of Appleby in confident mood. Arriving an hour early due to the gaffer's incompetent timekeeping, Sedbergh had time to relax and have a kickabout before the game. Missing Nathan Close, Danny Flynn and Robert 'Crag rat' Moffatt, Sedbergh were almost at full strength with Chris Milburn returning.
The game got underway with both teams enjoying the fair share of possession but without really creating anything. Appleby were gifted the chance to take the lead when Ben Close scuffed his clearance straight to the centre forward who returned it back towards the empty net but luckily Ben Close's lightning pace saw him get back and claw it round the post. Sedbergh took the lead after 20 minutes with Andrew Burrow slamming the ball home from 10 yards after a scramble in the area. Sedbergh made it 2 shortly after with Elliot Oxley firing a bullet header into the roof of the net after a superb whipped corner from Andrew Burrow. Appleby pulled one back after Robert Close gave away a cheap free kick on the edge of the area. The ball ending up in the net rather fortuatously after pinballing about in the area before falling to an Appleby player to slot it home. However, this comeback was short lived as Sedbergh made it 3 through Aaron Siemaszko's first goal of the season, slamming it home from 6 yards after great work, yet again, from Andrew Burrow - Aaron celebrating like he had just won the Craven cup for the boys.
Half Time - Appleby 1-3 Sedbergh
Sedbergh began the second half brightly and were 4-1 up in no time with a Graham Sowerby long throw being flicked on by Andrew Burrow against a hapless Appleby defender who steered the ball into his own net. Shaun Gardner was having a frustrating afternoon with shots coming off the bar, post and keeper but his perseverance paid off as he was clean through on goal and slotted one home under the onrushing keeper to make it 5-1. Ben Close then made 3 great saves to keep the score down (Although Dan Mason must not have seen these judging by his match ratings!!!!) before he was forced off with a back injury.
SUBS - Mason and Packham on for Close B and Gardner S
Craig Gardner stepped up to the plate to go in nets for the last minute and was helpless (or is that hapless?!) as Appleby pulled a consolation back. A good performance from the boys on a traditionally difficult pitch which has seen us move further up the league
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 6, Milburn 7, Baines 7, Siemaszko 7, Farrell 7, Sowerby 7, Gardner C 7, Close R 8*, Burrow 7, Gardner S 6, Oxley 6. SUBS - Mason 5, Packham 5.
Saturday 23rd January 2010 - Coniston 0-8 Sedbergh
Sedbergh made the long trip up to Coniston for their first game since 7th November 2009 full of excitement that we were about to actually play a game of football. Missing Nathan Close and Chris Milburn, Sedbergh were nearly at full strength. New to the squad was Danny Flynn, having just moved to Sedbergh from the Wirrall.
The game started in weak sunshine with some of the lads sporting various forms of gloves to keep their delicate hands warm, no names mentioned. Sedbergh were immediately on the attack with Luke Packham and Andrew Burrow combining well to create a few chances, the best being a deft Shaun Gardner header which just went over the crossbar. The first goal arrived after 15 minutes with Andrew Burrow scrambling the ball over the line in scruffy fashion. Elliot Oxley was in good form, beating defenders for fun and creating chances galore and it was a foul on him that led to the second, Craig Gardner stepping up to hammer the free kick past the Coniston keeper to make it 2-0 after 20 minutes. The third came after a brilliantly worked set piece with Craig Gardner whipping in a wicked free kick which Robert Moffatt superbly flicked on for Elliot Oxley to head into the empty net. It was soon 4 as Andrew Burrow reacted quickest to stab the ball home from 6 yards. Coniston were presented with a glorious opportunity to equalise before half time after an horrendous mis-kick from goalkeeper Ben Close who sliced the ball into the path of the striker. Fortunately the striker kicked it towards goal in a similar manner and Sedbergh were off the hook.
Half Time - Coniston 0-4 Sedbergh
The second half started in barnstorming fashion with Shaun Gardner finally getting on the scoresheet with a back post header following great work from Andrew Burrow. It was at this point that Sedbergh started to get complacent and sloppy and wasted 6 or 7 glorious chances to increase the score. It was another 20 minutes before the 6th with Shaun Gardner flicking home Luke Packham's low cross.
SUBS - Flynn and Close R on for Sowerby and Gardner C
Elliot Oxley then made it 7 after being put clean through on goal and slotting it through the keeper's legs before Shaun Gardner completed his hat-trick with a great left footed finish into the top corner after a great ball from Elliot Oxley. This completed a 'perfect' hat-trick for Shaun with his first two coming from his head and his right foot.
SUB - Mason on for Siemaszko
The games comedy moment then arrived in the form of Andrew Burrow who, after a Coniston defender lashed out at him, stood over the poor chap and launched into a verbal tirade which ended up with Buzz getting booked for threatening behaviour!
Coniston then had a perfect opportunity to pull one back after Dan Mason's push on their striker earned them a penalty with 5 minutes to go. Fortunately Ben Close guessed right and pulled off the save to preserve Sedbergh's clean sheet, the first of the season. A good performance considering it was the first game since 7th November but sloppy in parts. Another +8 on the goal difference though is great news.
MANAGERS MATCH RATINGS - Close B 7, Siemaszko 7, Farrell 7, Baines 7, Sowerby 7, Gardner C 7, Moffatt 8, Packham 8, Gardner S 7, Oxley 8, Burrow 8*. SUBS - Close R 6, Flynn 6, Mason 5.
Saturday 7th November - Shap 3-2 Sedbergh - Senior Cup
Sedbergh travelled upto the neutral venue of frenchfields in the torrential rain for this senior cup 2nd round tie against Shap, which had been rearranged from last week and played in Penrith due to Shap's waterlogged pitch. Sedbergh made one or two changes, with Tim Baines returning to the starting line up and Nathan Close dropping to the bench after his no shows at training. Yet again, Andrew Burrow was entering a horse.
The game started at a frenetic pace with both sides creating early half chances, Graham Sowerby screwing a great opportunity wide after 5 minutes and Martyn Coleman squandering a couple of opportunities at the other end, Ben Close making a couple of routine saves. The games opening goal came after 10 minutes, and it was an absolute beauty. Sedbergh ripping Shap to shreds with intricate one touch passing between Shaun Gardner, Craig Gardner, Robert Close and Luke Packham which ended with the latter putting a peach of a first time ball across the box for Elliot Oxley to slot home. Shap responded instantly with Martyn Coleman again missing a few chances. The games first talking point came after 20 minutes when Aaron Siemaszko was adjudged to have brought down Martyn Coleman in the box. The penalty was dispatched with ease to make it 1-1. The second talking point came moments later when good work from Graham Sowerby saw him tear into the box only to be brought down. No penalty. This represented Sedbergh's 5th penalty conceded this season and probably the 5th blatant shout for one of our own turned down. When will we ever get a spot kick?
All this was insignificent though after 35 minutes as a peach of a ball from Graham Sowerby set Sedbergh's talisman Shaun Gardner away and he made no mistake as he calmy slotted the ball home under the onrushing keeper.
Half Time - Shap 1-2 Sedbergh
The second half started in the midst of a huge downpour and players were beginning to lose their footing as the grass turned increasingly to mud. Shap were in the ascendency and were creating chances for fun, but a combination of solid defending, good goalkeeping and poor finishing kept the score at 2-1. This was soon to change though as a long punt upfield (which, seemed to be Shap's gameplan all day) wasn't dealt with by the defence and left a striker with a clean run on goal. It was 50/50 between the Shap striker and Ben Close in the Sedbergh goal and both came together with an almighty thud but the Shap striker came off best and the ball ended up in the net for 2-2.
Sub - N Close on for Sowerby
Sedbergh were beginning to struggle and Shap created more chances, Ben Close making another couple of straight forward saves and Shap's strikers missing others. The winner came 10 minutes from time after a Shap midfielder wasn't tracked and sent a bullet header past the despairing Ben Close.
Sub - Moffatt on for C Gardner
Sedbergh then seemed to up their game and created a few chances of their own in the final 5 minutes, the best coming when Aaron Siemaszko wipped a wicked ball to the back post with Robert Moffatt, Shaun Gardner and Luke Packham inches away from connecting. Sedbergh won a corner in the last minute and in a last ditch effort for the winner sent Ben Close forward to throw his weight about in the box. Elliot Oxley getting his head to it but not quite connecting properly. The final whistle went and Shap celebrated loudly, which shows their relief at getting the victory over a rugged Sedbergh team. The game was a battle and Sedbergh unfortunately came out as the losers but another indication of the vast improvement from last season has been given today.
Ratings - Close B 7, Farrell 7, Siemaszko 8, Baines 8, Milburn 7, Sowerby 7, Gardner C 8*, Close R 8, Packham 7, Gardner S 7, Oxley 7. SUBS - Close N 6, Moffatt 5.
Saturday 24th October - Sedbergh 7-1 Lunesdale Utd
After a great performance up at Ambleside a week earlier, Dan Mason decided to stick with the same starting 11 who started that game. This meant Buzz, Azza and Bully started the game on the bench. Fortunately, everyone took this well and respected Dan's decision and there were no tantrums whatsoever.........
Sedbergh's pitch faced its first big test since the drainage work was completed as heavy rain on Friday night and Saturday morning meant the bottom end would be boggy. To be fair, the pitch held up well and there was no doubt about the game going ahead.
Sedbergh started the game on the front foot against a much changed Lunesdale side from previous seasons and were unlucky not to be 1-0 up in no time when Elliot Beagan was harshly given offside when clean through. This disappointment was to be short lived however as Sedbergh took a 1-0 lead through Shaun Gardner's 11th league goal of the season, slotting home on the rebound after great work from Robert Close and Elliot Beagan. The favour was then returned 5 minutes later as Shaun slid an inch perfect pass for Elliot Beagan to slot home to make it 2-0. Robert Close was starting to pull the strings in midfield as his match fitness and sharpness begins to return and the defence was coping easily with the limited amount of work they had to do. The third Sedbergh goal followed shortly after as Shaun reacted quickest to a penalty area scramble to slot home. Shaun's third and Sedbergh's 4th soon followed, and what a goal it was. Bringing the ball down instantly, Shaun turned on a sixpence and hammered the ball home off the underside of the bar.
Half time brought welcome relief for Lunesdale as Sedbergh should have been out of sight but Lunesdale's stand in keeper had made some great saves.
The second half began with Lunesdale storming out the traps and earning 4 quick corners and basically camping in Sedbergh's half. However, in what seems to be the story of Lunesdale's season so far, they couldn't turn the pressure into any kind of meaningful attack.
SUB - Siemaszko on for Milburn
Sedbergh then made Lunesdale pay for the lack of goal threat and added a 5th, Elliot OxleyElliot Beagan somehow managing to screw the ball off the outside of his foot from 3 yards and lobbing the keeper. Sedbergh were creating, and missing, chances for fun, the worst being who unbelievably managed to hammer a shot wide from 2 yards. Sedbergh's 6th came from Shaun Gardner yet again, who guided Aaron's driven cross past the keeper.
SUB - Burrow on for Sowerby
Sedbergh were now toying with their opponents with Packham and Siemaszko having the free regin of the left wing and this domination showed as a 7th went in. Again, this was an absolute screamer and it came from Elliot Beagan. Picking up the ball 30 yards out, Elliot unleashed a thunderbolt which flew in to the roof of the net.
SUB - Moffatt on for Beagan
The final say of the game came from Lunesdale who prevented Sedbergh from keeping their first clean sheet of the season, Paul Farrell diverting a wayward shot past Ben Close in goals.
It was an efficient performance from Sedbergh but in all honesty, it wasn't the greatest. 3 more points and another +6 onto the goal difference is the most important thing though. A tough trip to Shap next week in the Senior cup will provide Sedbergh with a sterner test.
Ratings - Close B 5, Milburn 6, Oxley 6, Farrell 6, Gardner C 6, Beagan 8, Close N 7, Close R 8, Packham 7, Sowerby 6, Gardner S 8*. Subs - Burrow 6, Siemaszko 6, Moffatt 5.
Saturday 17th October - Ambleside 1-0 Sedbergh
Sedbergh headed up to Ambleside for the first game in 3 weeks hoping to get back to winning ways after 2 straight defeats. With Aaron Siemaszko and Tim Baines missing from the defence, Sedbergh needed to make a few changes with Faz and Oxley at centre half with Milly and Diddy at full backs. Dan Mason's massive gut was causing him pain so he also had to miss out. The final absentee being Andrew Burrow who was apparently entering a horse, things must get lonely up Dent.........
The first 10 minutes saw Ambleside camped in the Sedbergh half but with no real chances created. Ben Close was then forced into action, tipping over a rasping Jamie Parkinson drive. It was all one way traffic and the pressure told as Ambleside took a 1-0 lead after 15 minutes, a forward flicking the ball home from 6 yards. Paul Farrell and Elliot Oxley were having a great game in defence, as was Ben Close in nets who made a great double save before acrobatically tipping a 35 yard drive over the bar which had been destined for the top corner. Elliot Oxley and Luke Packham both went close before half time, Bushy being forced into making 2 good saves. Robert Close and Shaun Gardner also carving out half chances as Sedbergh came into the game more and should have had a clear penalty when Elliot Beagan was brought down. Half time came with Sedbergh still very much in the game.
Half Time
The second half was a different story with Sedbergh on top for large periods. Shaun Gardner forcing Bushy into another couple of saves before Sedbergh had the ball in the net, only to see it ruled out after the Ambleside linesman inexplicably decided the ball had gone out for a goal kick before it was crossed in even though the ball wasn't even near touching the line, let alone going over it.
Subs; Bully on for Nathan, George on for Packham
Robert Close then had 2 great chances from Graham Sowerby long throws, heading one straight at the keeper and getting the other caught between his feet. Ben Close then made another 2 good saves to keep it at 1-0, one with his feet at the near post and the other an instinctive knee from a close range header. Paul Farrell then made the goal line clearance of the season, racing back to toe the ball away after Jamie Parkinson had rounded Ben Close.
The final whistle came as much as a relief to Ambleside as Sedbergh were the better team in the 2nd half and could easily have knicked a goal and earned a point. Everyone could come off the pitch having put in a great performance and knowing that we deserved at least a draw. Keep this effort up and the workrate will turn to goals against the weaker teams.
Ratings - Close B 9*, Gardner C 8, Oxley 8, Farrell 9, Milburn 8, Sowerby 7, Close N 8, Close R 6, Packham 7, Gardner S 7, Beagan 7. SUBS - Moffatt 6, Close G 5.
Saturday 26th September - Burneside 2 - 1 Sedbergh
Sedbergh welcoming Tim Baines back to the squad had big changes to the team line up with Ben, Shaun and Buzz being away. Woofy replacing Ben, an all left footed back 4, Milly, Azz, Baino and Tommy G. In the midfield Beagan, R Close, Bully and Grayers. Up front Diddy and N Close.
The game set off with Sedbergh having most of the chances in the first half, Grayers putting a shot wide from the 18 yard box after a well directed header from Diddy. Shortly afterwards a somewhat standard tackle saw Bully Moffat off to Hospital to check for ankle damage, he was walking on it so nothing serious I hope.
Sub: Deano replacing Bully
The game resumed under a similar standard. Sedbergh had chances to test the Burneside keeper but failed to let one fly instead being intercepted.
With the pitch being rock solid half of the struggle was keeping the ball on the floor.
Half Time - Burneside 0-0 Sedbergh
Sub: Dan Mason replacing Tommy G
Second half started and after only a few minutes Burnside were gifted a penalty after Baino apparently pulled a player down in the box. 1-0.
Sedbergh had about 5 free kicks chance at striking distance from the Burnside goal but managed not to make anything from them. Burnside took advantage of a counter attack and after azz took his eye off the ball to point out to the ref that there was a player down burnside slotted another past Woofy. 2-0
Sub: Luke Packham replacing Grayers
Last 10 minutes sedbergh had a good spell of posession and with good work from N Close and Luke Packham Sedbergh managed to presure Burnside into a deflected own goal. 2-1
Full Time
Ratings - Woofy 7. Azz 6, Baino 6, C Milburn 7, Gardner T 6. Close R 7*. Moffat 5. Sowerby 6. Beagan 6. Gardner C 7, N Close 7. SUBS Raw 7. Mason 6. Packham 6
Saturday 19th September - Craven Cup - Skipton LMS 7-2 Sedbergh
Sedbergh were raring to go in this year's Craven cup, full of confidence after the season's great start and with a great sense that we could claim the trophy and bring it home to Sedbergh's army of fans. Meeting at 11.45am, Sedbergh had a long journey ahead of them. Arriving at the ground at about 1.20pm, the lads were in relaxed mood and the warm up suffered, with everyone laughing and joking. This was to show as the relaxed mood continued into the game. With Aaron Siemaszko, Chris Milburn, Dan Macandlish, Tim Baines, Robert Close, Luke Packham and Craig Gardner missing and Paul Farrell not at full fitness, Sedbergh fielded a make-shift defence. The game kicked off at 2pm and that was about as good as it got......
Skipton tore Sedbergh to shreds at the back, as Faz's injury flared up again quickly. Thomas, Dan and Elliot were struggling to cope with the pace and power of Skipton's front 2 and it all helped Skipton roar into a 4-0 lead after 30 minutes with poor defending contributing to all the goals, Ben Close also struggling in nets, letting 2 of the 4 in very cheaply. The whole team was being run ragged but a glimmer of hope was given through Nathan Close's good run and finish on the stroke of half time. Tails between legs, Sedbergh trudged to the side of the pitch for a well deserved half time bollocking.
Unfortunately this was not to have any affect as Sedbergh's lethargic performance continued which saw Skipton score another 3, all of these again after poor passages of play from Sedbergh. Shaun pulled a consolation back with a well placed finish before the game ended on a sour note with a Skipton defender sent off for needlesly punching Shaun in the face. Shaun was forced to go off shortly after suffering from dizziness and was replaced by Luke Packham, which was perhaps the one positive of the match that Luke was back out on the pitch following his ankle injury.
It isn't too harsh to go all out and say that Sedbergh player's were an embarassment on Saturday and need to seriously buck their idea's up in readiness for next Saturday's tricky away game at Burneside. However, let's put this behind us and concentrate on going forward in the same form we have shown in the league. We can compete in the Morrison cup now with the chance to put some things right and perhaps go on a good run in that. Come on guys, we are better than that.
Ratings - Close B 6. Mason 6. Gardner T 4. Oxley 5. Farrell 5. Close N 6*. Moffat 5. Sowerby 5. Beagan 5. Gardner S 6. Burrow 5. SUBS Close G 5. Packham 5
Saturday 12th September - Kirkoswald 2-4 Sedbergh
Sedbergh made the long treck up to Kirkoswald on one of the hottest days of the summer knowing they were facing a team in great form. Missing Luke Packham, Robert Moffatt, Craig Gardner, Paul Farrell, Tim Baines, Graham Sowerby and Dan Mason, Sedbergh were depleted. Aaron 'Rafa the gaffer' Siemaszko stepped into the breach, replacing Dan as Manager, although from the amount of texts the squad were receving off Dan, he may as well have been there. Thomas Gardner returned for his first game of the season and Robert Close made his first start since his wrist operation, confirming on Thursday night that 'as he was able to wank again, he could play football again'
Having got up there early, Sedbergh had a quick kickaround and penalty shoot out to help warm us up, Shaun Gardner taking his place in nets for the shoot out. Steve Roberts got the game underway and Sedbergh were straight on the offensive with Shaun, Buzz and Beags all missing early chances. Azza and Oxley were coping well at the back and Nathan was bossing the midfield as Kirkoswald struggled to create anything meaningful. Sedbergh took the lead after about 20 minutes after great work from Beags and Buzz, the latter crossing the ball in for Shaun to slot home with aplomb. Almost immediately it was 2 as Shaun pounced on a goalkeeping error to volley the ball home. The inevitable hat-trick was complete 5 minutes later when Shaun tapped home after Buzz had rattled the crossbar from 25 yards. Sedbergh were coasting. Kirkoswald then created 3 chances in quick succession towards the end of the first half, but Ben Close was in top form and was equal to everything being thrown at him.
The second half started as the first ended, with Kirkoswald on top, however, nothing was getting past Ben Close as he made 2 more great saves to keep the home side at bay. Nathan Close was stamping his authority on the game again, and it was his pressure which won Sedbergh the ball back and saw Shaun feed Buzz who hammered home to make it 4-0. Azza was desperate for the clean sheet and was rallying the troops and it looked for all the world that Sedbergh would get it until Jamie Thompson, fresh from his latest radiotherapy treatment, gave away a penalty. It was the 3rd penalty against Sedbergh in 4 games, and all were harsh. Azza let the ref know his thoughts on the decision and received his customary yellow card. Ben Close was given no chance as he was sent the wrong way. 4-1. Sedbergh then got sloppy and gave away a poor goal, with a Kirkoswald striker heading home, completely unmarked, from the 6 yard box. The Wanderers held on though for another victory which moves them up to 6th in the table.
Ratings - Close B 9. Madishclan 8. Siemaszko 9. Oxley 8. Milburn 8. Close R 7. Close N 9*. Beagan 8. Gardner T 8. Garnder S 9. Burrow 9. SUBS - Thompson 7. Raw 6. Close G 6.
Tuesday 8th September - Carvetii 3-3 Sedbergh
After a couple of postponments, Sedbergh were raring to go again. Still missing were Luke Packham, Robert Close, Thomas Gardner and Tim Baines. Robert Moffat and Graham Sowerby both sunning themselves on holiday also missing.
The Game was played at Kirkby's excellent Parrot park as Sedbergh's pitch was waterlogged. The game began in typically competitive fashion with Martin Cairns launching strongly into a couple of challenges. Shaun Gardner had an early chance but put his header wide under pressure from Simon Parkin. The other Parky then made a great save from Elliot Beagan to keep Sedbergh at bay. However, this was short lived as Shaun put Sedbergh one up with a clinical finish after good work from Elliot Beagan, who went past Graham Gardner like he wasn't there and put a great ball across the box
Sedbergh looked to push on and were causing Carvetii a few problems but couldn't create any more clear cut chances before the first talking point of the game. Carvetii were awarded a penalty after Paul Farrell was adjudged to have held onto a Carvetii striker. Scott Allison stepped up to take it and Ben Close almost saved it, with the ball squirming through and into the net. Sedbergh's reply was spectacular. Having been awarded a free kick 30 yards out, Craig Gardner stepped up to hammer the ball into the top corner to give Sedbergh a deserved half time 2-1 lead
The second half began with the biggest talking point of the game, with Carvetii full back Graham Gardner being shown a straight red card after a clumsy challenge on Elliot Beagan. In all honesty it was an extremely harsh decision, a challenge which warranted a yellow, but almost certainly not a red. This should have given Sedbergh the impetus to kick on, but it was Carvetii who began taking control of the game with Craig Barnes being given almost the free run of the park. Sedbergh player's also beginning to look like the extras from platoon with Paul Farrell, Craig Gardner and Andrew Burrow all struggling. Carvetii used their momentum to good effect and equalised after a deft header from Michael Robinson.
Sedbergh then went on the offensive and, after some dodgy refereeing from Steve Roberts, who took no notice of the Carvetii linesman, took the lead for a third time. Shaun Gardner with his second goal of the game, this time a fantastic finish with his left foot into the bottom corner which gave Matt Parkin no chance. Carvetii didn't let this effect them and were level again within minutes. Simon Parkin broke up a Sedbergh attack and played the ball to Damon McNaughton who played a great looking through ball to Craig Barnes who lifted the ball over the onrushing Ben Close to make it 3-3. This proved to be the last goal of the game, with Ben Close making 2 or 3 saves in the difficult conditions late on to keep it that way. All in all, probably a fair result, although both teams had opportunities to win it.
Ratings - Close B 8. Madishclan 7. Oxley 7. Farrell 7. Milburn 6. Beagan 7. Gardner C 7. Burrow 6. Close N 6. Siemaszko 7. Gardner S 8*.
Tuesday 25th August - Sedbergh 8-2 Appleby
Sedbergh went into the second game of the season full of confidence after Saturday's performance against Ambleside.
Welcoming back Shaun Gardner after his week long shagathon in France, Sedbergh were looking strong. Still missing were Robert Close, Luke Packham, Tim Baines, Thomas Gardner and Elliot Oxley so the only change to the starting line up was Shaun replacing Deano.
Sedbergh stormed out of the traps and were 1-0 up in no time. Graham Sowerby pinged one of his trademark throw ins into the Appleby box and Shaun Gardner was on it quicker than Ben Close to a buffet table to lash the ball into the top corner.
Appleby pulled one back from the spot after Paul Farrell was harshly adjudged to have pushed Appleby's Ben Jackson. Jackson himself stepping up to send Ben Close the wrong way. This proved only a minor setback to Sedbergh who then stormed into an 8-1 lead with Shaun claiming another 4, Buzz grabbing 2 and Beagan scoring the pick of the goals with an outrageous chip over the keeper from 35 yards after a great through ball from Buzz. Shaun's 5th and Buzz's 2nd also worth a mention, both great finishes into the bottom corner. The Sedbergh keeper and defence could have sat down and had a tea party at the back, such was the low level of activity in the Sedbergh half.
The Wanderers were coasting so Mase brought himself on for the last 5 minutes.......5 seconds later, Appleby scored - a forward beating Ben Close at his near post. The final whistle was music to Appleby's ears as Sedbergh absolutely tore them to pieces, leaving the Appleby lot shellshocked and probably suicidal. A thoroughly deserved win for Sedbergh which put them, albeit temporarily, third in the league. Keep on performing like this and Sedbergh could be top 5 this season, no problem.
Ratings - Close B 6. Madishclan 7. Farrell 7. Siemaszko 7. Milburn 7. Sowerby 8. Moffatt 8. Burrow 8. Gardner C 8. Close N 8. Gardner S 10* SUBS Mason 5. Beagan 7
Saturday 22nd August - Sedbergh 2-3 Ambleside
Sedbergh Started their 2009/2010 league campaign with a tricky home tie against the champions from the last 2 years, Ambleside.
Sedbergh welcomed back Nathan Close from his one year self exile and also handed a debut to Andrew Burrow. Missing Luke Packham, Tim Baines, Thomas Gardner, Robert Close, Shaun Gardner and Elliot Oxley, Sedbergh faced a tough game.
The game started in bright sunshine with Ambleside pressing for the opening goal but AaronFaz and marshalled the defense superbly to keep the away team at bay.
The games opening goal came in the 30th minute through an own goal from Faz, who inadvertantly diverted the ball past Ben Close from close range. Ben Close then made 2 great saves to keep the score down before Buzz smashed in his first ever goal for Sedbergh after good work from Graham Sowerby. Ambleside then took a 2-1 lead straight after with Dan Madishclan diverting the ball into his own net after a save from Ben Close.
Dan Mason gave Sedbergh an inspired team talk at half time and Sedbergh came out all guns blazing and were unlucky not to equalise when Graham Sowerby dragged his shot wide. Against the run of play, Ambleside went 3-1 up with the 3rd Sedbergh own goal of the day, Aaron Siemaszko the unlucky one this time. Sedbergh pulled back a late goal through good pressure from Nathan Close who closed the keeper down and slid the ball into the empty net.
A great performance from Sedbergh who made an encouraging start to the season.
Ratings - Close B 7. Milburn 9. Madishclan 8. Farrell 9*. Siemaszko 8. Sowerby 7. Burrow 8. Moffat 8. Raw 6. Close N 7. Gardner C 8. SUBS Mason 6. Beagan 7