Chairman
Paul Fuller
Secretary
Chris Pragnell
Managers
Dan Clarke
Tom Thurman
Club Captain
Ray Walsh
Treasurer
Chris Pragnell

Shirts - Royal Blue & Red Stripes
Shorts – Royal Blue with White Trim
Socks -  Royal Blue with White Trim

Barnes Albion v Venceremos
Venceremos v Draytonians
Shire Horse v Venceremos
Rectory TR v Venceremos
Venceremos v Hayes End Wand's Chiswick Albion V Venceremos Hayes End Wand's V Venceremos
Venceremos v Shire Horse
Bedfont Green v Venceremos
Venceremos v Beechwood
Venceremos v Chiswick Albion
Beechwood v Venceremos

Highway Utd v Venceremos Venceremos v Sporting Litten Venceremos v The Stag Draytonians v Venceremos

Barnes Albion 6 - 2 Venceremos WMSFL Premier Division (19th September 2004)

V's faced their opening game of the season missing both centre backs and right back, so started the game with a make shift defence that took Rob Wilmott from leading the line upfront, to the middle of the defence. The first half was a competitive affair with both teams trying to get a grip on the match. V's hit first with a great diving header from Micky P off of a Cuell set piece. Damo then went close shaving the inside of the post with a shot when one on one with the keeper folowing a Barnes Albion defesive error. The Albion then struck back with an equaliser after Butcher went with feet rather than hands and saw the ball richoshade over his head only to be passed in by the advancing striker.

Minutes after the equaliser saw and Barnes took a 2-1 lead. A cross from the right hand side floated over Butcher and into the empty net. However the V's, renowned for their bouncebackability soon equalised with an identical effort from the other end from a shot / cross from Damo. The half ended with two a piece.

The second half was more a dream than a reality for the V's. A slow start to the half saw third and fourth goals scored in quick succession. A lack of fitness combined with the Albions accurate pass and move game saw the V's struggle to contain their opposition. Fith and six goals were scored and the game was put well out of reach.

This game will hopefully prove a wake up call to the step the V's now face with life in the premier division.

Final Score
Barnes Albion 6-2 V's (HT 2-2)
V's scorers - Micky P, Damo
V's - Alex, Jeff, Jimbo, Rob W, Micky P, Sprags, Tom, Matt, Dan, Damo.
MOM
Damo

Final Score
Twickers 0-2 V's (HT 0-0)
V's scorers - Matt, Big Rob
V's - Alex, Dave (Big Rob), Nobby (PJ), Pecky, Ray, Sprags, Tom (Andy
G), Jimbo, Matt, Micky P, Dan.
MOM
Matt Bray

Highway Utd 1 - 2 Venceremos County Intermediate Cup (19th September 2004)

This was the 1st round of the county cup for both teams and also the 1st time both teams had met. Venceremos started well dominating the early exchanges, passing crisply, looking dangerous going forward and solid in defence. However, as the game continued Highway grew in confidence and began challenging the V's
s in every department. The V's defence handled the two highway strikers well, leaving Bat's little to do. Debutant 'Gazza' on the right wing started brightly, testing the keeper several times with two stinging shots. The V's had several chances early on , however, several players wasted them until a break down the left followed by some quick feet and a sharp finish from Mickey P put the V's in front. Half time was a welcome break for the V's with a score at 1-0.

The second half was completely dominated by Highway as the V's began to tire, but held solid offering little sight of goal. Frustration grew for both teams leading to some 'interesting' tackles with several yellow cards being issued. A rash tackle by Pecky down the left, led to a free kick which curled dangerously towards the V's goal. A slight misjudgement and sheer number of bodies, led to the Highway equalising from this set piece. Once more Highway bombed forward with little reward. Then with most of the game gone, Rob Wilmot cleverly collected the ball on the Highway byeline before running along the goal line and slotting home from an acute angle. Overall, the V's should have finished the game early on. They didn't play to the best of their ability, however with several key players missing they withstood consistent pressure from Highway and gave them few chances. As the saying goes 'The best teams are those that play badly but still win!'

Final Score
Highway Utd 1-2 V's (HT 0-1)
V's scorers - Micky P, Rob W
V's - Bats, Dave, Nobby, Jimbo, Pecky, Sprags, Dan, Gazza, PJ (Sean), Micky P, Big Rob
MOM
Jimbo

Venceremos 1 - 0 Draytonians WMSFL Premier Division (10th October 2004)

With both teams yet a register a point this season, this was a must win encounter to kick-start the campaign. Unlike V’s opener against Barnes, we had a full squad, which proved significant in an injury-hit game. The V’s were clearly the better side, but struggled early on to play quality football in the windy conditions. Draytonions are a big physical side and strong in the air, but when the V’s played it on the deck, both Rob and Dan clearly had the better of their sluggish defence. Andy and Macca were bossing the midfield, and it was unfortunate when Andy pulled up with an injury. Micky P came on to the right of midfield, while Jimbo slotted into the middle.

After half time, the V’s still struggled to break down a stubborn defence. Tackles started to fly and Ray was a victim of a nasty challenge, which allowed PJ into the fray, while the versatile Jimbo took up the centre half position. Matt Bray’s industrious work down the left resulted in several inviting crosses, while mounting pressure from the V’s resulted in some dangerous looking corners, but no goals!! With the game fading away, it took a moment of inspiration from Big Rob to bring that illusive goal. Persistence down the left saw Rob with the ball on the by-line, with very little options. But a cheeky couple of keep ups, and a bit of head tennis with the ball got Rob to the 6-yard box, where an advancing goalkeeper was helpless to stop a final header force its way into the net! Out of nowhere the V’s had scored, and comfortably hung on to win.

Still not firing on all cylinders, but that is 3 wins in a row including the cups. Once they start to click, someone is going to get a hiding. Bring on Chiswick!!!

Final Score
V's 1-0 Draytonians (HT 0-0)
V's scorers - Big Rob
V's - Alex, Dave Pecky R, Ray (PJ), Nobby, Matt, Andy G (Micky P), Macca, Jimbo, Big Rob, Dan, sub not used Pecky G
MOM
Nobby

Chiswick Albion 3 - 0 Venceremos WMSFL Open Cup R2 (17th October 2004)

This game took place at the wind swept grounds of Warren Farm. The V's though missing several key players were still able field a decent side thanks to the versality of the squad which included moving Jim to centre back (not a reflection on the fact he missed three sitters the week before) and were able to give Gareth Jones, another of the Brunel youngsters, his debut.

Chiswick were the better side in the opening quarter and gave V's the runaround and were rewarded with an early goal, not as a result of their passing gane, but by way of a long punt which fell between Jim and Macca and was cooly touched past Alex by an Albion player. V's clearly up against it did well not to let their heads go down and battled well for the remainder of the half and the score remained 1-0 in the Albions favour at the break. A change of fortune in the second half saw the V's dominate and at times it seemed like a training session practising one-on-ones with Al. However chances which Micky P would have buried on a Tuesday night went begging thanks to some excellent goal keeping and poor finishing. Big Rob couldn't even cash in on some gilt edge chances as the Albion's back four stood firm defending desperately at times. V's thought they had levelled after Big Rob got on the end of a cross resulting from a rebound off the bar only for it to be controversially ruled out for offside. As V's pressed for the equaliser Chiswick still remained a threat on the counter attack and with 20 mins remaining a mistake by Pecky who played the best throughball of his life straight to a grateful striker who slotted it past Al to make it 2-0. V's still had chances to get back in the game and had two further efforts ruled out, one for an allegedged hand ball and the other after the referee was too keen on stopping play rather than playing advantage as Big Rob got in the way of the keepers clearance and deflected the ball in the back of the net. With time running out Chiswick snatched a third and the game finished 3-0, a very flattering score line in a game the V's should have won.

Final Score
Chiswick Albion 3-0 V's (HT 1-0)
V's - Alex, Dave (Gareth), Pecky R, Jimbo, Macca, Matt, Sprags, Dan, PJ (Dave G), Big Rob, Micky P
MOM
Fancy Dan

Shire Horse 0 - 5 Venceremos WMSFL Premier Division (31st October 2004)

Once again the quality of the ShireHorse pitch ensured a premiership quality surface. That’s premiership rugby not football. ShireHorse started in usual fashion, more concerned with arguing with themselves and each other than winning the game. ‘you mug’ being the buzzword of the day.

V’s started well and with help from the ShireHorse defence scored within 10 minutes of play. A direct ball through the centre of the defence saw no ShireHorse interception and was latched onto by Thurman – returning from a four week layoff through injury – who slid the ball past the advancing ShireHorse keeper. 1-0 V’s. The second goal of the game followed minutes later with a masterful flick from Clarke to Wilmott , Wilmott proceeding to round the keeper and finish coolly. 2-0 V’s. The third goal of the game came once again within quick succession of the last, a long ball in from Macca appeared likely to roll into the Shire Horse keepers hands, however a bazaar piece of handling from the keeper saw the ball fumbled, leaving a tap in finish for Clarke upfront. 3-0 V’s. With ShireHorse rocked the game looked to be slipping rapidly from their grasp. ShireHorse carved out a couple of guilt edge opportunities but were unable to capitalise. V’s continued to control the remainder of the half but proved unable to extend the advantage. The half ending at 3-0 to the V’s

The second half saw a rejuvenated ShireHorse, who threw all they could at the V’s defence. Some resolute defending was not helped by a referee obsessed with advantage, no matter what fouls the person with the ball actually committed. This interpretation of the rules saw a penalty awarded to the ShireHorse, but Butcher in goal saved well to keep the pressure off of the V’s. ShireHorse bombed on in search of a goal and the V’s more through necessity than choice opted to play on the counter attack. This approach paid dividends midway through the second half when Thurman exchanged passes with Clarke down the right to slot home V’s fourth of the day and put the game out of ShireHorse’s reach. The game was rounded off with a final goal from the V’s. A breakaway run from substitute J Peck on the right ended with a pinpoint cross. Clarke met the advancing ball with a left foot volley that the keeper could only parry, the interception from the keeper not being enough to prevent the ball from crossing the line. 5-0 V’s

Final Score
Shire Horse 0-5 V's (HT 0-3)
V's - Alex, Dave, Pecky R, Nobby, Macca, Micky P (Dave), Sprags, Tom, PJ (Jeff), Big Rob, Dan
MOM
Tom

Venceremos 2 - 2 Sporting Litten (5-4 Penalties) County Intermediate Cup (7th November 2004)

Bouncebackability was the name of the game in this County Cup encounter as the V's clung on to force extra time and go on and win the shoot out.

V's began brightly enough and with Fancy Dan and Big Rob out stand-in strikers Micky P and Geoff Peck carved out some good opportunites but were unable to convert into goals. Mid way through the first half and against the run of play Litten took the lead after V's were hit on the break after losing possesion in their opponents half. Noberto Stocker making his 100th appearance for the V's couldn't get to the pacy forward who finished clinically past Butcher in the V's goal. The first developed into a more evemn encounter and Sprags had his hands full dealing the giant in midfield whose influence on the game was growing. However V's got back on terms as Matt Bray cut in from the left and found the bottom right hand corner of the net with a sweet drive. The second half continued fairly evenly with V's enjoying the majority of the possesion and Litten always looking dangerous on the break and it was V's who came closest to edging in front as Matt Bray struck the post with a venomous shot and Dave Gibbons blasting a volley at their keeper. It was the Litten though who went in front with about 70minutes on the clock. A corner from the right wasn't cleared and Alex's attempted scoop over the bar ended in the back of the net. With time running out V's pressed for the equaliser, a bulldozing run by Stocker ended with a weak shot and Matt saw another effort hit the post after a goal mouth scramble. It looked all over for the V's until Dave Gibbons lashed the ball into the roof of the net deep into injury time. A V's player hasn't celebrated a goal like that for a long time! (since Sprags last scored) off he went down the pitch removing his shirt in the process. Thankfully he had his vest on and the referee who had begun to spoil things in the second half with some poor decisions kept his note book in his pocket. There was barely time for the restart. Phewwww.

The first half of extra time was a non-event but opportunities opended up in the second period for both sides and Dave Gibbons perhaps had the best chance firring wide of goal.

With no further score it was time time for the dreaded pens. With Litten going first, Alex made amends saving their second spot kick. With all remaining kicks being dispatched clinically it was down to old timer Jimbo to win the game for the V's, and he did. Other penalty takers were Matt, Nobby, Tom & Micky P.
V's face the Stag in round three (the last sixteen).

Final Score
V's 5-4 (pens) Sporting Litten AET 2-2 (HT 1-1)
V's - Alex, Jimbo, Nobby, Pecky R, Macca, PJ (Dave G), Sprags (Dan S), Tom, Matt, Pecky G (Gareth), Micky P
MOM
Matt Bray

Rectory Teddington Rangers 3 - 2 Venceremos WMSFL Premier Division (14th November 2004)

The filthy behind of a dirty west London pub in the early hours of a Sunday morning – normally the setting for Dave Gibbons to have his sordid way with a cheap hooker, but on this occasion it was where the players would change prior to the game.

After playing ‘wait for the manager’ for half an hour, it became clear that The Bald-headed One was not going to make it to the game and so it was up to one of the more senior players to deliver the pre-match words of wisdom. Well, they don’t come much more senior than Jim Cuell, and after telling all the youngsters how much fun he used to have kicking pigs bladders from village to village with 500 of his closest friends, he managed to give an inspiring team talk. Compared to Bats.

The game itself began brightly for Vs, with some slick passing in midfield – new signing Dan Strong pulling the strings. The defence also looked solid, with Dave ‘safety first’ Leslie, putting in a fine display. (When he was smashing the ball in to touch, it almost always went in front of him!). A host of opportunities were created against the lacklustre home side and it was no surprise when the deadlock was broken by Clarke - firing through the (dodgy) keeper’s legs from inside the box.

Gradually though, Teddington began to find a foothold in the game and created chances of their own. Although they had increased their work rate, their equaliser had more than a hint of good fortune about it as an attempted shot turned into a through-ball and the striker finished easily from close range. Before too long, things got even worse for the Vs as a floated free-kick from Teddington found their big mute centre back and the ball deflected off one of his chins and into the net.

In the second half, Vs rallied and a number of long goal kicks somehow found their way to Clarke clear on goal, but he must have had some mud on his Predators because he just couldn’t find the sweet spot. With limited numbers, there were not a great deal of options for the make-shift management of Cuell, and things looked bleak for the away side. Then, out of nothing, they suddenly found themselves with a penalty. After the previous week’s 100% shoot-out success, the list of candidates was long, but the task fell to regular taker Clarke, who slotted home easily to make it 2-2.

It now looked like only one side would go on to take all 3 points but in the last 5 minutes, against the run of play, Teddington were awarded a corner. Again, the ball was flighted cleverly towards the centre-half who rose like one of grandma’s Yorkshire Puddings to ‘power’ a header at goal. After the third bounce it reached Butcher’s hands but it was just too hot to handle and the ensuing scramble resulted in a sickening Teddington winner.

A disaster like this has not been witnessed since Rob Wilmott took his air guitar to McSlutsky’s, but that’s football – you win some, you lose some.

Final Score
Teddignton 3 - 2 V's (HT 2 -1)
V's - Alex, Dave L, Macca, Pecky, Tom, Dan S, Dave G, Jim, Dan C, Rob W
MOM
Dan Strong

Venceremos 4 - 6 Hayes End Wanderers WMSFL Premier Division (21st November 2004)

The new management took control for there first official match in control of the hot seat.

Bat's the recently departed gaffer, alegidly has taken up a xmas job at the Post Office, We all would like to thank him for his service to the Club.

Dan selected a poor team from a strong squad, after a weak team talk the v's locked horns with Hayes End Wanderers. New boy Gareth was clearly intimidated by the Emile Heskey look alike playing up front for the opponents.

The away defence gifted player manager Dan Clarke with a string of chances which he slotted away with german efficiency, followed by new boy Dave Gibbo celebrating a poachers goals like he is on acid, surely a drugs test is required, Jim also slotted home from close range after good attacking play from Dan Strong, playing in centre mid, after a solid team display the V's entered the break 3- 1 in front. Macca had to leave the field after a Stuart Pearce type challenge, hard as nail's but ended up in Hillingdon Hospital, get well soon.

Self Destruct Button

The v's went 4-2 up after a penetrating move from the v's then disaster struck, stalwart Sprags got subbed in a poor managerial decsion, the ship was drifting into the eye of the storm. Dan started a fight with the long haired gypo from the Wanderer's, this was the turning point, Matt Bray ballooned the resulting free kick into Uxbridge!!, it was obvious no body wanted to back dan up as this guy looked mental!!! lead by example my son. Long balls caught out the defence on numerous occasions, 4-3, 4-4, 4-5, 4-6, a gutless second half ended with a result the team deserved, lack of leadership and positive communication an obvious factor. The only way is up.........three words Control, Dominate, Win.

Final Score
V's 4 - 6 Hayes End Wanderers (HT 3 -1)
V's - Alex, Jimbo, Nobby, Pecky R, Macca (Gareth), Dan S, Sprags (Costas), Fat Matt Bray, Dave L, Dan C, Dave G
MOM
Dave Leslie

Chiswock Albion 2 - 5 Venceremos WMSFL Premier Division (28th November 2004)

V’s entered the game with a new look defence that saw Micky P installed at its heart. Drafted in at left back for the absent Nobby was Gareth, and Dave Leslie and Pecky maintained their positions at right back and centre back respectively.

A windy day and a poor pitch aided in bringing the game down to who wanted victory the most. Both sides registered early attacks but failed to make a mark on the game. Then, with the clock hitting the 20 minute mark – Wilmott joined in. A run just left of centre saw Wilmott pass the two opposing defenders and bought him 5 yards from the Chiswick goal. A faked shot saw the keeper hit the deck and allowed Wilmott to spank his shot into the open net. 0 –1 to the V’s.

The taste of a goal proved the adrenaline that Wilmott needed, and another three jinking runs resulted in similar goals and a 0 - 4 scoreline to the V’s. At this point, the internal bickering began and the Chiswick machine began to fall apart. Half time proved a decisive point in the game, allowing Chiswick to regain their compsure, shape, and to devise a contingency to prevent further punishment from Wilmott. This renewed approach appeared to pay dividends as Chiswick began to make their mark on the game. But for the efforts of Butcher in goal, the scoreline would not have remained so flattering. With around 70 minutes on the clock the Albion were given a sniff of hope through a dubious penalty given by the referee. (who incidentally was stood on the half way line at the time) The penalty was despatched just off centre, but despite fingertips, Butcher could not prevent the goal.

However, the Albion revival was quickly crushed with a fifth goal from the V’s. A low corner from Cuell met by the advancing Clarke at the near post was brushed past the Albion keeper. This put the match well out of the Albions reach and allowed the V’s to coast home to victory.

Some final observations:

1: Why would Wilmott want to join a team that had just been spanked 5-2 by the team that he currently plays for, and that was lying second from bottom in the league.

2: In the wonderful shared accommodation that comprises the communal broom cupboards that are called changing rooms – did anyone see the keeper for that other team? Was it the guy in the wheel chair from Little Britain?

Final Score
V's 5 - 2 Chiswick (HT 4 -0)
V's - Alex, Dave L, Micky Py, Pecky R, Gareth, Dan S (Jeff P), Sprags, Fat Matt Bray (Dave G), Jim (Costas), Dan C, Rob W
MOM
Rob Willmott

Venceremos 2 - 2 The Stag WMSFL County Intermediate Cup Round Three (5 - 2 AET) 5th December 2004

This cup tie drew the biggest attendance of the season so far as ex V's, friends and family came down to pay their respects to former player Andy Fuller whose untimely death six years ago to the day was marked by one minute silence prior to kick off.

V's in confident mood following the win over Chiswick Albion stuck with the new look back four marshalled by Micky P. The in-form pairing of Big Rob and Fancy Dan lead the attack and the only change to the starting line up was Macca for Matt who was off supporting the Bees in the FA Cup, although this meant some shuffling of personnel across the middle four.

From kick off it soon became apparent that the attitude of the young opposition wasn't going to make this game a pleasant one to play in or watch. The quality of football suffered as the football was suffocated by constant stoppages brought about in the main by The Stags petulance.
In some rare action V's could have taken an early lead as Jimbo found space on the left but with the goal at his mercy his tame shot was saved.

V's always find it difficult against team like the Stag and as the half progressed lost what composure they had as confidence seemed to drain away. To make make matters worse The Stag registered two late goals to leave the V's moral in tatters at half time. This was clearly too much to bear for some of the V's followers who trudged off. However a calming team talk from TT steadied the ship and V's were level within 5 minutes of a particularly jittery restart. The first was from a Dan Clarke volley dispatched in the bottom left hand corner from a central position on the edge of the area, the second from a Stag defender whose clearance under pressure found his own net. V's should have couldn't keep the momentum going and the second half although more free flowing than the first pettered out and extra time was required.

Just before the end of the first period V's took the lead after a well worked move down the left resulted in Costas debut goal dispatching a Gibbons low cross at the near post. In the second period V's dominated with Willmott nodding in the fourth and Clarkey netting no. 5 with a defected free-kick.

V's 5-2 AET The Stag (HT 0-2) (FT 2-2)
V's - Alex, Dave L (Dave G), Gareth (PJ), Pecky, Micky P, Sprags (Costas), Macca, Jimbo, Dan S, Fancy Dan, BIg Rob.
Scorers
Fancy Dan 2, Costas, Big Rob, OG
MOM
Pecky

Hayes End Wanderers 2 - 3 Venceremos WMSFL Premier Division 09th January 2005

This was a game in which the V’s were seeking retribution – following a capitulation earlier in the season from a 4 – 1 winning position to a 4 – 6 defeat.

On return from a long Christmas break both sides struggled to gain any kind of grip on the game. Poor defending resulted in an early goal for Hayes, but V’s struck back quickly with a long-range effort from Clarke nestling into the top left hand corner. V’s not learning from their earlier poor defending then conceded another. This time a set piece. V’s concentrated on forming the wall but did not react to the already taken free kick. Some quick passing left the striker with an easy pass into the net – leaving Butcher with no chance in goal.

The score remained the same until half time – and a dejected V’s needed lifting. Thurman, sidelined through injury spent the first half preparing this speech of inspiration, which on delivery proved nothing short of soul destroying.

Never a team to give up – V’s went into the second half prepared to battle – and a goal from Wilmott proved the V’s reward mid way through the second half. A breakdown in communication between defender and goalkeeper saw a collision on the edge of the area – leaving Wilmott to pass the ball into the empty net to level the scores.

With the game in the balance, substitute Gibbons was denied several times by good saves from the keeper following some positive approach play on the left. Hayes then increased the pressure but this time the V’s defence stood strong. As did Butcher, following a wild lash at his own goal from Leslie, in an attempt to walk away with the goal of the season honours.

As the game approached the final ten minutes the likelihood of a draw looked all the more probable – with neither team looking like having that cutting edge. This was before the 12th man stepped up for the V’s. The man in black stood up to be counted, deflecting a wayward ball back in to the area from what would have been a goal kick. Quickest to react was Bray, quickest to dive in was the Hayes defender. Penalty kick, and an opportunity for the V’s to walk away with three points having twice trailed. Clarke stepped up and slotted home, and the V’s retribution was complete.

Venceremos 0 - 1 Beechwood WMSFL Premier Cup R2 16th January 2004

This was just what V's needed a week before their County Cup quarter final - a kick up the arse!
The expected improvement form last weeks performance in the narrow win over Hayes End never materialised as the youngsters of Beechwood gave V's the runaround. However for all their possesion Alex remained a spectator for the majority of the first half. V's struggled to compete for whatever reason and too many times conceded possession cheaply. Beechwood came closest to breaking the deadlock midway through the first half as a long range effort clattered the upright. V's best chance came soon after from a free kick which the keeper saved at full stretch. With Sprags making way for Andy G at the break the second half began more brightly for the V's and they should have taken the lead as Andy G, making his first appearance since October, burst his way through the middle but lifted his shot onto the bar under a challenge from the keeper. From a spell of sustained pressure V's won a series of corners and Tom T was unlucky to see a goal bound header cleared off the line. With nothing to show V's lost the initiative and allowed Beechwood to boss the game again. The goal that broke the deadlock and won the game came from a left sided cross that wasn't dealt with and found it's way past Butcher after a scramble in the area. Beechwood could have added a second soon after but Butcher was on hand to make an excellent save. Beechwood then contrived to produce the miss of the season as with the goal at his mercy and all the time in the world the youngster somehow missed. Good luck to Beechwood in the next round. Let's hope the V's can turn up for the big one v Draytonians next week.

Draytonians 2 - 1 Venceremos MCFA Sunday Intermediate Cup QF

Martin Bakers Sports ground should have provided an appropriate setting for this County Cup Quarter final encounter being a private ground with a large pitch, fencing, dugouts, technical area etc however the occasion was spoilt by the very late arrival of the bloke with the key to get in and a surface more akin to the Conquest Club.

V’s previous encounters against the oppo (more Dray than Ytonian!) have been close affairs all won by the odd goal and with V’s finishing on top in the last two encounters had nowt to fear apart from maybe themselves!
And it was themselves that gifted the Drays ably assisted by a dodgy lino the lead after about 10 mins. V’s gave the ball away in the middle of the park and the Drays got the better of an unintentionally flat footed back line to break through and score, the worse thing was no one appealed for the off-side, well apart from Big Robs old man standing behind the fence.

V’s then had a stroke of fortune themselves as Big Rob chasing an over hit pass from Fancy Dan and going nowhere was felled by the Dray keeper although a pen, credit should be given to the ref for making such a decision.

However that’s where the niceties about him end. Anyway Fancy Dan made no mistake from the spot to level the score. The quality of football on offer was however poor not helped by the heavy pitch, the heavy oppo and a V’s side still playing no where near it’s capability. Drays soon took the lead again although V’s had more than one chance to prevent the resulting scrambled effort. This did however rally V’s into ascendancy in the remainder of the first half but chances were of the 50% variety and never really troubled the keeper.

V’s maintained the upper hand in second half and Macca and Fat Matt enjoyed particular success down the left side however they didn’t get much beyond Drays 18 yard line. The wise old heads of Drays knowing they were struggling became effective in breaking the game up and the referee began to flash the cards raising a grand total of £48 for the MCFA! As much as V’s huffed and puffed they couldn’t blow the house down and it was the Drays who had the better of the closing stages of the game. In the shrill of the referees whistle went the last chance of any silverware for the despondent V’s. Shirehorse next week will test the character of the team.

Drays 2-1 V’s (HT 2-1)
Scorer Fancy Dan (pen)
Bookings
Pecky – nice tackle!
Gareth – for being Welsh
Sprags – for calling the cheat a cheat.

V’s
Butch, Jonesy G, Macca, Micky P, Pecky G, Andy G, Fancy Dan, Fat Matt, Strong Dan (Tommy T), Big Rob, Gibbo (Sprags). Not used : Jimbo
MOM
Macca

Venceremos 3 - 0 Shire Horse WMSFL Premier Division 31st January 2005

This was on paper a very tricky game for the V’s as after two successive Cup exits a visit from the Divisions bottom side was sure to be a test of the V’s resolve.
The return of Nobby (excuses now exhausted) softened the blow of Peckys absence through new work commitments and new signing Olly B completed the complement of yet another full squad.
It was Shirehorse who showed the early promise as Butch was called into early action on two occasions saving one effort at full stretch and another on the line saving his own embarrassment just about hanging onto the ball between his legs. Ooh err. V’s were however more than a match for an improved Shirehorse and Big Rob making his 100th appearance in V’s colours made it 1-0 after a customary solo run down the left and close range shot. He could have made it two soon after but the Shire keeper turned over a wicked volley. Gibbo having a stormer on the left also had a chance to put the V’s two up but snatched at a shot when in acres at the back post.
In the second half Shirehorse continued to pose a threat to the V’s, their pacey forwards putting V’s defensive capabilities to the test but failing with any final product. With the move of the game V’s went further ahead after some champagne football down the right from Dan S set up Jonesy G who crossed to Fancy Dan who layed it off to Rob who found the net for his twelfth of the season. With twenty to go Rob now turned provider and found Andy G unmarked at the far post who volleyed home from close range. V’s thought they were home and dry but Shirehorse to their credit never gave up and made the last fifteen minutes uncomfortable for the V’s but were unable to really test Butch in the V’s goal. A welcome three points puts V’s into third place in the table.

V’s 3-0 Shirehorse (HT 1-0)
Scorers
Big Rob 2, Andy G

V’s
Butch, Jonesy G, Macca, Micky P, Nobby (Sprags), Andy G, Fluffy, Gibbo (Olly B), Dan S, (Costas) Fancy Dan, Big Rob

MOM
Gibbo

Bedfont Green Sunday v Venceremos - WMSFL Premier Division - 6th February 2005

V's were yet again forced to make changes in the back four, Sprags & Macca being the 8th centre back partnership used this season,
not ideal against a Bedfont Green side who now boast players from last seasons Premier Champs Domine Athletic. Erring on the side of caution V's began with five in midfield in attempt to stifle the oppostion and rely on a big performance from Big Rob on his own up front.
However it was soon back to the drawing board as V's were caught cold by two early goals from Bedfont to put pay to V's game plan.
The first was from a ball through the centre, which saw the poney tailed forward get the better of Macca to toe poke the ball past the advancing Butcher. The second was iffy to say the least, a corner ws cleared upwards rather than outwards and the leading the stampede on the goaline the big lump of a forward bundled the ball over the line taking Butcher out in the process, foul? apparantly not!
Going foward V's were looking fluent, enjoying the space Bedfont allowed and some promising moves were created. The first could have levelled the score at 1-1 as Dan Strong cut into the box on the right but shot stright at the keeper. A quick free kick caught Green on the back foot and Big Rob should have scored after rounding the keeper but blazed over form a tight angle. A couple of long range efforts went close from Matt & Andy G but the defecit remained 2-0 at half time.
V's continued to try and find a way back into the game in the second half but Bedfont were creating the better chances however some fine goalkeeping and resolute defending from the battling V's kept Green at bay. A late flurry from the V's saw a Dave Gibbons free kick well saved and a breakaway from Clarkey could have produced a consolation if he had squared to the unmarked Big Rob on the edge of the area.

Final Score
Bedfont Green 2-0 V's (HT 2-0)
V's - Alex, Gareth (Dave L), Matt, Sprags, Macca, Tom, Dan C, Andy G, Dave G, Dan S, Big Rob.
MOM
Alex

Venceremos v Beechwood - WMSFL Premier Division - 13th February 2005

V's out for revenge against their Premier Cup conquerors welcomed back Ray Walsh not seen in a V's shirt since October.
The first half was just edged by the oppostion who with the wind in their favour crafted some good moves but were as always
let down by their forwards. Beechwood did take the lead after some charitable V's defending and they didn't miss this time form close range
as V's failed to clear their lines. V's had chances themselves mainly falling to Clarkey who unfortunatley appeared to have left his shooting boots behind. With the wind now in V's favour they began to get a grip on the game and drew level after a move down the right flank, Olly B played in Clarkey who this time made no mistake lashing the ball home. V's soon took a deserved lead as Ray Walsh headed home a Matt Bray corner and never looked back.

Final Score
V's 2-1 Beechwood (HT 0-1)
V's - Alex, Dave L, Nobby, Ray, Macca, Tom, Sprags, Matt, Olly B (Gareth), Dan C, Big Rob.
MOM
Macca

Venceremos v Chiswick Albion - WMSFL Premier Division - 27th February 2005

This was an important game with a valuable three points at stake in the race for third place, a Cup final it certainly wasn't! In windy conditions it was difficult for both teams to get a grip on the game but with the wind in their favour Chiswick enjoyed more of the possesion and were particularly danergous down the right hand side. The best chance fell to Chiswick but the goal bound effort was cleared off the line. Olly B impressed for the V's playing in his favoured position on the left side of midfield and caused Albion many problems. Now with all the talk of video technology being introduced to the beautiful game a good place for the FA to try it out would have been in this game where a number of incidents warranted a second look. The first incident being the disallowed goal from Big Rob, who was played in by Dan Clarke beat a defender and netted only for
it to be ruled out by the flag happy lino.

With the score goaless at half time, the V's buoyed by a strong finish to the first half, were keen to get out for the second and take advantage of the wind. Now whether V's expected the wind to do their work for them or Chiswick upped their performance the expected V's onslaught never materialised. With the game even and with 0-0 written all over it the deadlock was suddenly broken midway through the half as Micky P's free-kick was diverted into his own net by an Albion defender. Surely V's could defend this precious lead. Unfortunately they couldn't and lost it within five minutes after a cross from the right was poorly defended and the ball dropped to an Albion player who poked it home. Rather than peter out however the game got a bit lively in the closing stages. Olly B had an effort disallowed for offside and Chiswick had a big shout for a penalty turned down, two more incidents for the fourth official! Who would have definitely proved the latter incident was outside the box and saved all argy bargy on the full time whistle.

Final Score
V's 1-1 Chiswick (HT 0-0)
V's - Alex, Gareth, Nobby, Pecky (Dan S), Micky P, Macca, Tom, Olly B, Dave G (Sprags), Dan C, Big Rob.
MOM
Olly B

Beechwood v Venceremos - WMSFL Premier Division - 13th March 2005

And so to Feltham Arena which must rate as one of the worst venues in the WMSFL Premier, still better to play on the adjacent field than the astro pitch looking like a badly laid carpet. On second thoughts maybe the astro would have been better as Big Rob especially found the surface difficult to work with. Before the game had developed any pattern Dave G had to leave the pitch after injuring his foot under a heavy challenge. V's were able to adjust and began to impose themselves on the game with chances a plenty as the woodwork and a body on the line saved the yellows. A wicked inswinging corner fron Fancy Dan was turned onto his own bar by a Beechwood
defender and Dan's sweetly struck free kick rebounded off the frame with the keeper well beaten.

V's keeper Alex Butcher has been in fine form since a few early season bloopers, unfortunately the gremlins returned today and a routine catch was dropped leaving the simplist of tap-ins for the lucky Beechwood player, who didn't even thank Alex for the gift, I dunno the yoof of today!

Undetered the V's carried on as if nothing had happended still pretty much in control but unable to score.
This pattern continued in the second half, if anything Beechwood sensing frustration in the V's ranks got their tails up. But V's eventually got a deserved equaliser, Olly B notching his first for the club from about 12 yards out assisted by a slight deflection. Then with a couple of minutes to go Big Rog was bundled over when through on goal. The ref pointed to the spot and V's were on for all three points. However what followed was scandalous, with Beechwood players hounding the referee he decides to go and consult with Mr Beechwood on the line. The conclusion being the offence occured out side the box and furthermore the defender stays on the pitch!?
V's were given two chances with the free kick but unfortunately the wall did it's job. The final whistle went a few minutes later and V's were left bewildered.

Funny how Mr Beechwood didn't come into the V's changing room for his usual post-match chat.

Final Score
Beechwood 1-1 V's (HT 1-0)
V's - Alex, Gareth, Dave L, Sprags, Macca, Tom, Matt, Olly B, Dave G, Dan C, Big Rob.
MOM
Olly B