6

4.4.09 – PJAL League Cup Final

Eye United 0 v Deeping Rangers Blue 1

DEEPING RANGERS BLUE ARE U9 CUP KINGS!!!

Finally after what had seemed an eternity of waiting, the cup final day had arrived. Four weeks to the day of their magnificent semi final victory against Hampton, Deeping were travelling to the Focus centre, Chestnut Avenue, Peterborough to play in the showpiece U9 cup final against much fancied Eye United.

It was trousers, shirts and ties for all and the boys really looked smart as we met at the ground ready for the 10 o’clock kick off. We were escorted to our changing room, told where we could warm up and what time we were to return ready to walk out together with our opponents and the officials. How quick did that hour go? Before we knew it, we were walking out for the biggest game the boys had ever played in, most were nervous but so was everyone associated with this young Blues side.

A massive crowd had gathered for the match which kicked off in near perfect conditions, an honest assessment is that Deeping started brightly and more than matched their much fancied opponents. Then from nowhere a goal, Jack Baker played the ball into the Eye penalty area and the unmarked Joe Hussey turned and fired the ball home to put Deeping ahead 1 – 0. The goal sparked celebrations on and off the pitch and also seemed to galvanise Eye as they began to ‘force the pace’ to try to get back on terms.

But Deeping’s captain, Ryan Cotterell was again leading from the front and was battling non stop in midfield to break down Eye possession, when they did get through, Deepings rearguard of Jack Baker and Josh Smith were having superb games, blocking and clearing their lines on numerous occasions. But Eye still had chances and their final stumbling block was Blues keeper Olly Goode, who pulled off a couple of superb saves to keep Rangers in front as the half time whistle sounded.

After a well earned break, again Deeping had a ‘purple patch’ at the beginning of the second half. On two occasions Hussey again had chances but failed to strike the ball well when in a good position and Jamie Scott was clean through and decided to hit the ball early when he maybe could have carried it further. Deeping were also aided by some hurried wayward finishing from the Eye players, who as the game dragged on became desperate to score. Lady luck also smiled on the Blues as Eye struck the woodwork on two or three occasions as they rallied towards the end and put the Blues under immense pressure. Still Baker was superb, flinging himself in front of every Eye effort. Thomas Needham was now on replacing Hussey and his hard working, hard tackling was appreciated by the Deeping crowd and Adam Reeve replaced Josh Smith at the back and helped clear the defensive lines.

The end of the match saw Eye force a series of corners but Rangers held firm and when the whistle went had kept their proud record of not having conceded in the cup this season.

All from Deeping were ecstatic at the result, finishing as League runners up for two seasons was forgotten as the Blues were crowned U9 cup kings, every member of the team had played their part in a hard fought victory and hand Eye their first defeat of the season.

Deeping’s Jack Baker was named man of the match and it was well earned but he was pushed hard by the performances of several of his team mates who all played their part today and battled to the end.

So finally the Blues win a trophy and probably given the choice of league glory or the cup, you would take the cup. The whole day, the organisation and the celebrations afterwards were superb, a day that will be with the boys forever.

Then from me - massive thanks to all, the boys were fantastic as were the parents and the fans, it has been a brilliant achievement to win the cup and has rewarded the boys for the hard work and dedication that they and you all have shown this season. Now looking forward to our Presentation Evening at our clubhouse on Friday 17^th April.

Training commences again on Wednesday 22^nd April at DRFC, Outgang Road at 6 pm.

Tournaments – Deeping – Monday 4^th May, Bourne – Saturday 23^rd May.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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7.3.09 – PJAL League Cup Semi-final

Deeping Rangers Blue 4 v Hampton Reds 0

RAMPANT RANGERS REACH THE FINAL!!!!

Last weekend saw Deeping finish as runners up by one point in this seasons Red Zone. The team had finished second to Hampton Reds who they faced this week in the League cup semi-final.

Fortune favoured Deeping as they had been drawn at home in this crunch fixture and the motivation to succeed was a place in the final on the 4th April.

History showed one win each in the league this season, 0-1 to Hampton in the first meeting and the Blues winning the return fixture 2-1 at Langtoft and in doing so inflicting the only defeat in Hampton’s season.

Weather wise it was superb, the sun shone and a large crowd had gathered to watch the match, swelled by several Deeping Clarets followers who had come to give their support to the Blues.

This was the biggest game that the boys had played in and most were pretty nervous, but at the whistle you wouldn’t have thought so. From the start, the Blues were fast out of the blocks and pushed Hampton back without creating clear chances. To a man, Deeping tackled hard and marked tightly and Hampton struggled to create anything. The closest the Blues came was when Joe Hussey’s shot was pushed onto the post by the Reds keeper but most of the first half “action” was around the Hampton goalmouth.

For all Deepings attacking intent, half time came with the game deadlocked at 0-0.

The second period certainly started with a bang, direct from the kick off the ball was laid back to Jamie Scott and from inside his own half he unleashed a superb shot that flew over the startled Hampton keeper and crashed into the back of the net. What a strike, 1-0 Deeping, the boys and fans went mad!

So nearly a second, Hussey was found in the box and turned and just shot wide of the post. Hampton were flustered, Rangers rearguard of Josh Smith and Jack Baker were having superb matches and keeping Hampton at bay. In the middle, Rangers captain Ryan Cotterell and Jamie Scott were battling for everything and up front Joe Hussey was starting to cause problems for the Hampton defence.

Then 2-0, in a copy cat move Hussey was again in the box, this time he went round his marker and his left foot shot found the bottom corner for his 20^th goal of the season leading to delirious celebrations!

Rangers now had their “tails” up and were playing some great passing football and another flowing move saw the ball fall to Scott, whose fierce shot was parried by the keeper but still found the bottom of the net to put Rangers 3-0 up.

Home keeper, Olly Goode was then called into action as Hampton were awarded a free kick on the edge of the Deeping area, a superb shot being saved by the legs of the Rangers goalie.

Again the Blues attacked and were rewarded with a stunning 4^th and final goal, Jamie Scott hitting a screamer with the outside of his right boot which flew into the top corner and gave the keeper no chance, a hat-trick in a semi-final.

Adam Reeve and Thomas Needham joined the fray, Thomas full of running and crunching tackles and Adam slotting in at the back, keeping the Rangers goal intact.

At the final whistle, ecstasy, a 4-0 win against a side that had conceded only 6 goals in their 17 previous matches and the Blues were in the final.

So April 4^th at the Focus centre in Peterborough, where we will play Eye United who saw off Spalding United 1-0 in the other semi.

It’s difficult to sum up today, all the boys were superb, as was everyone who came and gave their support, the relevance and the manner of the result and performance may not sink in for some time but lets enjoy the moment and prepare for the final. Training continues at the Astro turf and I will see you all there on Wednesday at 6pm. I will also be arranging some friendlies before the final to keep the boys sharp and posting details of the final as and when I find out.

Finally, thanks to everyone today, you were ALL fantastic!!!!

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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28.2.09 - PJAL Red Zone

Deeping Rangers Blue 2 v Netherton Falcons 1

BAKER STRIKE SEALS SECOND PLACE!!

Deeping hosted Netherton Falcons at Langtoft on Saturday in their final Red Zone match of the season, knowing that a home win would secure the runners up spot in the league. In fact for a few moments the Blues would sit top of the division due to Hampton kicking off one hour later than Rangers, but all at Deeping knew that current league leaders Hampton would seal top spot by a point with an easy home victory over basement side SSI.

But back to the match, after the recent bad weather the pitch at Langtoft was surprisingly in superb condition. In the first half Deeping had the advantage of the wind and launched a series of attacks, their attacking play was soon rewarded when Joe Hussey fired home to put Rangers 1 – 0 up and the Blues looked in control. How wrong we were, Netherton won a free kick some 20 yards out and it was crashed home with a ‘Ronaldo like’ into the top corner of the Deeping goal giving the home keeper absolutely no chance.

The goal shook the Blues but they battled back and only a deflection stopped Ryan Cotterell from putting the home side back in front just before the interval, half time 1 – 1.

Netherton started the second half with the advantage of the wind and Deeping knew they were in for a battle, but to be fair Rangers took the game to their opponents and created several great second half chances but couldn’t find a second goal. Then with just six minutes left, Deeping finally got the breakthrough, defensive rock Jack Baker moved forward and picked the ball up, ran past a couple of Netherton players and let fly from the edge of the box, the ball nestled in the back of the net and Rangers were back in front 2 – 1. Up to that point you could sense the nerves from both the players and the fans on the touchline, but the boys held on and at the end had secured the runners up spot.

Later that evening, news came through as expected that Hampton had won their last game and clinched the title. As disappointing as it is to come second two years on the run, the boys have again had a fantastic season in the league and in the end have only lost out on top spot by a single point. Now our attention turns to the league cup, this Saturday sees us in the semi finals in our first season of cup football with a home tie against Hampton Reds at Langtoft 10:30 KO. It will be tough as are all semi finals but as you know we will be ready.

Congratulations to all the players, mums, dads and fans for their effort, support and understanding so far this season, you have all been superb. Thank You.

See you all at training at the astro turf on Wednesday at 6pm.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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31.1.09 - PJAL Red Zone

Deeping Rangers Blue 5 v Parkway Eagles 0

RANGERS RISE TO SECOND AFTER SCOTT HAT-TRICK.

The Red zone is now at the "business" end of the season. It was make or break time for the top three. Deeping had a comfortable looking home fixture against struggling Parkway Eagles at Langtoft and the top two, Hampton and Bourne were to clash at Hampton. Whatever the result in the latter mentioned match, a home win for Rangers would see them move up into second spot and at best they would have gone top if the leaders were to draw.

Although it had been a cold start to the day, the sun was now up at Langtoft and again was ideal for football.

Deeping dominated the early stages in the first half but seemed to have left their shooting boots at home; the Blues were attacking at will but couldn't hit the back of the net. At the back Rangers were untroubled as Parkway played a lone forward and what seemed a back five to protect their goal. The deadlock was finally broken when Deeping won a free kick on the edge of the Parkway area. Jamie Scott stepped up and cracked in an un-stoppable shot to give Rangers the lead 1-0.

After struggling to break down the Eagles back line it became 2-0 almost immediately, Scott again showing his power with a great strike from the edge of the area to get his second of the game. Joe Hussey then added a third for Deeping following up on Scott's parried effort to force the ball over the line, and at half time the Blues led 3-0.

With a comfortable lead, Rangers again controlled the second half with Jamie Scott completing his hat-trick with a superb long range effort it make it 4-0. Then Jack Baker scored a fine individual goal to make it 5-0 and in doing so hitting Deeping's 50th league goal this season.

This game saw Rangers make full use of their squad as everyone played a fine part in another win, the final result of 5-0 saw the Blues record their 11th clean sheet of the season, and as already mentioned their ‘50th league goal’.

Results elsewhere did not go in Rangers favour but the boys now have the destiny of the runners up spot in their own hands and the cup semi-final to look forward to.

We now take a break from action for a couple of weeks but training continues and hopefully news of the cup draw!! See you at the Astro on Wednesday!!

Deeping Rangers Blue – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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24.1.09 - PJAL Red Zone

Bourne Clarets 0 v Deeping Rangers Blue 0

STILL ALL TO PLAY FOR AFTER GOALLESS DRAW.

Rangers travelled up the A15 on Saturday to take on local rivals and current league leaders Bourne Clarets. Only one point separated the top three in the Red zone and Deeping were desperate to claim the three points at Bourne to keep the pressure on second placed Hampton, who had a far from easy home fixture against Yaxley Blues.

Deeping are the only side to have beaten Bourne in the league this season and a win today and any slip by Hampton would see the Blues go top and have the title in their own hands.

After an overnight frost the pitch at Bourne was softening up nicely and other than it being a little “chilly”, conditions were near perfect for January.

Rangers started the first half with purpose, some great early passing and movement had Bourne stretched but Deeping couldn’t find an early goal. As the half wore on the game became more even and both sides looked well matched. Chances though were limited, Rangers keeper Olly Goode reacted smartly to keep out an in swinging corner and Bourne cleared one goalmouth scramble just as Joe Hussey was about to strike.
The midfield was a real “battle ground” and the Deeping players had to work tirelessly on a rapidly deteriorating pitch, half time came but no breakthrough 0-0.

After a well earned break both sets of players returned to the pitch, the pattern of the game remained as in the first half with both sides evenly matched. At the back for Deeping Jack Baker and Josh Smith were having superb games and only a deflected shot caused concern as it looped onto the Rangers crossbar before being cleared. As the half wore on, Deeping began to find more space and were breaking into the Bourne half with intent, the home players appeared to tire and Rangers took the upper hand and great passing and running gave Deepings Joe Hussey two great chances but on both occasions the home keeper pulled off fantastic saves to keep the game goalless and deny Rangers all three points.
The final whistle sounded and the match had ended goalless, both sides had given their all and the players from both sides looked exhausted but all were a credit in a cracking game and a quality example for U9 football.

Getting the boys together after the match, all were disappointed that they had not won, probably the feeling also that a Hampton win would all but end our title hopes.
It was probably fortunate that the Hampton match kick off was an hour later than our own as when the result came through (2-2), there was disappointment of what might have been. A win would have seen us top the league and have the destiny of the title in our own hands but we still have a chance, this weekend sees us at home to Parkway Eagles and the top two clash at Hampton where all at Rangers will hope for a draw.

Two league games left and still all to play for!! See you all at the Astro turf on Wed at 6 for training.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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17.01.09 - PJAL League Cup Quarter-final

Netherton 0 v Deeping Rangers Blue 1

BLUES BATTLE INTO SEMI – THANKS TO SCOTT STRIKE.

Rangers took a break from league action this week as the U9 quarter final clash at Netherton Falcons appeared on the fixture list. Rangers were buoyed by last weeks superb result against Hampton Reds which had seen the Blues emerge 2-1 winners over their previously unbeaten rivals. Netherton had not played a competitive fixture since December the 6^th, but had been training hard in preparation for this match.

In previous rounds Netherton had defeated the Blues club counterparts the Clarets 4-2 and in the last round had seen off the Blue Zone leaders Blackstones 2-1, proof that this was going to be no easy tie.

History between the two sides has favoured Deeping but every match has always been close, today was to be no exception!

The Blues had the advantage of the wind in the first half and knew that they needed to make that pay and score the goals that would make “life” easier in the second period. Netherton though had other thoughts and initially sat quite deep and were difficult to break down, the importance of the match appeared evident to both sets of players and neither side was stretching the other as defences dominated and risk taking was minimal.

The wind and heavy conditions were also making good football difficult and in the first half neither keeper had a notable save to make as it ended 0-0.

As the second period began maybe Netherton were slight favourites they had the wind at their backs and in the early stages were more of a force going forward than in the first half. Fortunately for the second week running Deeping’s Jack Baker was having a “rock solid” match at the heart of Rangers defence and was keeping Nethertons threat to a minimum.

The game was very evenly matched when from nowhere Rangers grabbed the lead, the ball broke loose on the edge of the Netherton area and last weeks goal hero Jamie Scott drove into the area before lashing the ball home, to give the Blues the lead.

Deeping now had to survive 10 mins and keep the lead intact and a semi-final place was theirs, Netherton raised their game during this period and forced several corners but Rangers defence stood strong and at the final whistle celebrated booking a semi-final place.

The game today could never be described as a spectacle but more of a battle, in fairness it could have gone either way but it is Rangers who can now look forward to a cup semi on March 3^rd. Again no one let the team down today, every player battled in difficult conditions and as was said before kick off the only thing that mattered today was the result. Some players were not at their best but all kept going to the end, and I know some were affected by the importance of the match and as a team we didn’t play our normal passing game.

So its all to play for, currently 3^rd in the league and in the semis of the cup, on the horizon (next week) we have a tough looking fixture at current red zone leaders Bourne clarets, but we are third and only one point behind both Bourne and Hampton who still have to play each other anything could yet happen!

Hopefully see you all at training Wednesday at 6pm!!!!!!!

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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10.01.09 - PJAL Red Zone

Deeping Rangers Blue 2 v Hampton Red 1

SCOTT’S SECOND HALF BRACE SEES RANGERS HOME!

Saturday was a huge moment in Deeping’s season, unbeaten Hampton Reds were the visitors to Langtoft in this Red Zone fixture and defeat for Deeping would see them out of this year’s title race, but a victory and Rangers “were back in the hunt”.

It was a credit to all parties that the match was played, Langtoft was bitterly cold and the match was in doubt right up to kick off. The pitch was inspected at 0800 in the morning and every half hour after and with both teams and managers keen to play, the decision was made to go ahead with the game.

At kick off you could sense the tension, a good crowd braved the cold conditions and both teams gave their all, the game flowed end to end in the first half and chances were few and far between. Ranger’s keeper Olly Goode doing well to punch clear under pressure and Hampton’s net minder making a fine save from an angled Joe Hussey effort. Both sides were defending superbly and it came as a surprise when Hampton took the lead. Hampton took a short corner and for once Deeping were caught asleep as a Hampton player dribbled into the box and fired into the Deeping goal. The whistle sounded and at half time Rangers were trailing 0-1.

Within 15 seconds of the re-start Deeping were level, a great passing move ended with Hussey releasing Jamie Scott who rifled home the ball from the edge of the area to put Rangers level. The goal gave the boys belief and the game continued as in the first half and flowed from end to end. Five minutes into the second half and Rangers took the lead, again a fine passing move saw Hussey again release Scott and the Blues midfielder ran on and crashed home his and Rangers second goal of the game to put Deeping 2-1 ahead. The Blues though didn’t sit on their lead and continued to match their opponent’s chance for chance for the rest of the match. The second half seemed an eternity but finally the referee blew for full time the Deeping players were ecstatic at the result and all had played their part in a superb encounter between two quality sides.

A big pat on the back to everybody today not just the boys but to all the Mums and Dads as well, the support was fantastic. The win today puts us back in the title hunt and every game now becomes a “cup final.” Next Saturday sees us travel to the Grange in Peterborough to take on Netherton Falcons in the quarter finals of the league cup and we need today’s performance from the lads in the remaining matches this season.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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6.12.08 - PJAL Red Zone

Thorney Colts 1 v Deeping Rangers Blue 5

RANGERS BOUNCE BACK TO WINNING WAYS!

Following last weeks surprise defeat at the hands of Yaxley, the Blues knew they had to win on Saturday at Thorney to stay in the red zone title race. The team are all aware that they now need to win all their remaining league fixtures and hope that leaders Hampton drop points against “top four” sides Bourne and Yaxley.

This weekend, Deeping entered a new era as the Blues had a new manager with Nigel Smith taking over from Tim Barnes as he prepares for a life overseas, all at Deeping wish him well.

So to Thorney, a side that has struggled to win games this season in the red zone but a team that always battles and never gives up, the boys knew they were in for a match.

Conditions for the time of year were near perfect, the pitch had plenty of grass, the sun was shinning and hardly a breath of wind meant it was ideal for football.

Rangers lost the toss and in the first half kicked up the “slope”, this didn’t seem to upset the balance of play and the first half was fairly even. Deeping took the lead in familiar style midway through the first period when once again Ryan Cotterell followed in a shot that the home keeper parried and fired home the loose ball to put Rangers one up.

The home side then had their best spell of the match and Blues keeper Olly Goode had to be alert on several occasions aided with some backs to the wall defending to keep Deeping in front, the whistle sounded and at half time Rangers led 1-0.

The second half saw Deeping have the advantage of the “slope” and they soon added to their slender lead. Jamie Scott won the ball and fed Joe Hussey on the left and his superb cross to the back post was crashed home by Cotterell to put the Blues 2-0 up with his second goal of the game and 20^thof the season.

Slack marking then saw Thorney pull a goal back but almost immediately a super strike from distance from Jamie Scott saw Deeping lead 3-1, Scott then increased Rangers lead again finishing off at the back post after another fine Hussey cross.

The final goal of the game saw a rare right foot finish from Hussey make the score 5-1 in Deepings favour.

So the Blues return to winning ways in what is always a tricky fixture but more of the same will be required this week when Netherton visit Langtoft in the last match before the Christmas break.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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29.11.08 - PJAL Red Zone

Deeping Rangers Blue 1 v Yaxley Blue 3

DEEPING ‘DISAPPOINTED’ AFTER FIRST HOME DEFEAT!

Saturday saw a huge setback in Rangers U9s hopes for the season when they were beaten at home in a competitive fixture for the first time in their PJAL history. The visitors to Langtoft were Yaxley Blues, a well organised resolute side with a history this season of not scoring or conceding many goals.

Rangers were on a run of five straight wins but the last three games had been against what is best described as “comfortable” opponents. Yaxley, as the boys had been warned would be a much sterner test.

To make matters worse on Saturday Rangers had to use the small pitch at Langtoft, a surface and size last used in the league on the 20^th September when Deeping struggled to defeat Thorney 1 – 0, this size of pitch certainly doesn’t suit Rangers passing game and so it was to prove.

The early stages of the match were quite even and both teams were battling for the upper hand in heavy conditions. The first chance of the match fell to Deeping who worked the ball well down the left and when the ball was played into the area it found an unmarked Rangers player who blazed high and wide from an excellent opportunity.

It didn’t take long for Yaxley to make Deeping pay, from a corner Deeping’s attempted clearance went straight to a Yaxley player, who from just outside the box lashed home a superb shot into the top corner to give the away side the lead.

There were few chances in the remainder of the first half, the most notable when Yaxley’s keeper made a fine save from a one on one situation. So at half time Deeping trailed 0 – 1.

Into the second period and like the first half, Rangers were really struggling with their passing; countless times Deeping would win the ball only to pass it straight back to their opponents who were tireless in their efforts. Rangers had further chances to score but a combination of good keeping, wayward finishing and stout defending from Yaxley kept them goalless. From nowhere, it was suddenly 0 – 2, a Yaxley player launched what is best described as an “up and under” into the Deeping area which caused chaos and resulted in a simple tap in for the away team to increase their lead. Worse was to follow when a Yaxley player stole in and volleyed unchallenged from a corner to make it 0 – 3.

Rangers did however score a late consolation goal; Tom Needham went on a fine run and saw his shot come back of the post, Ryan Cotterell again on hand to fire home the re-bound to make the final score 1 – 3.

So Rangers tasted home defeat for the first time, hopefully this will be part of a learning process. All at Deeping had and still have high hopes for this season now we will see how everyone reacts. The defeat was a bit of a shock, we knew Yaxley would be tough but we did miss several decent chances and they certainly took theirs. But there is still a lot of football to be played this season and possibly some twists and turns in the red zone. The boys still sit third in the league and have the top two to play and are in the Quarter finals of the league cup.

We will train and talk on Wednesday and prepare for next week when we travel to Thorney for another tough encounter in the PJAL red zone.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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22.11.08 - PJAL Red Zone

SSI FC 0 v Deeping Rangers Blue 7

COTTERELL’S TREBLE KEEPS RANGERS ON TRACK

Saturday saw the “return” fixtures start in the PJAL red zone meaning we had reached the half way point in the league season. In the season opener, Deeping had entertained newcomers SSI and had run out 11-0 winners at Langtoft, but as was said at the time, this young SSI outfit would only get better as the season progressed.

So Rangers travelled to Stanground College in fine form hoping to continue on their recent winning run against basement side SSI.

Again the weather was poor, low temperatures and a strong icy wind met both teams as they lined up for the match.

An honest early assessment was that SSI have improved, it appeared that they had set up to deny Deeping space and time and in the opening stages they stopped Rangers from taking an early lead.

But a goal had to come and it duly arrived after six minutes, Jack Baker’s shot was saved and once again Rangers captain Ryan Cotterell was on hand to sweep home the opener.

Seconds later and the same combination again increased Deepings lead, this time Baker’s pass in the box finding Cotterell who finished with ease.

Jamie Scott then added a fine individual third goal, finally scoring from what looked an impossible angle.

It was left to Blues skipper Cotterell to finish off the first half scoring, again from close range, following in to complete his hat-trick and leave Rangers 4-0 ahead at the break.

The second half again saw SSI continue in their attempt to contain Rangers but as in the first half the goals eventually came. First half provider Baker finally getting his name on the score sheet with a neat left foot finish before having a hand in the goal of the game. Deeping worked the ball down the right side and Baker sent over a fine cross, Blues striker Joe Hussey met the cross with a looping header that found the back of the net to open his account for the day.

Hussey was again on hand to finish the scoring with a cool finish after being put through on the edge of the box, his second and Rangers seventh goal of the day.

So a good start to the second half of the season and the conditions were always going to be tough but a clean sheet and seven goals in the plus column is a decent return on days like today.

Another clean sheet for Rangers “back five” of Goode, Smith, Reeve, Barnes and Needham, their collective eighth of the season with keeper Goode a bystander for the last three matches.

Blues captain Ryan Cotterell now takes over as leading scorer, his hat-trick today sees him score eight in the last three games and 17 for the season, one behind is Joe Hussey whose brace against SSI were his 15^th and 16^th of the campaign.

A run of tough matches now begin and the boys will need to re-focus after three comfortable victories, Saturday sees Yaxley Blues visit Langtoft in the red zone in what is always a tough encounter and nothing but 100% will be needed to secure a vital win.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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15.11.08 - PJAL League Cup 2^nd Round

Deeping Rangers Blue 8 v Glinton Utd 0

RANGERS CRUISE INTO THE LAST EIGHT.

Cup football returned to Langtoft on Saturday with a second round clash between Deeping Rangers Blue and Glinton Utd.

A quick glance at the form showed Deeping sitting in second place in the Red Zone and visitors Glinton struggling near the foot of the blue zone, but this was the cup and league positions meant nothing on the day.

Again the weather was a feature, the wind was again blowing from end to end and Glinton won the toss and played with the wind in the first half. With the wind, Glinton played high up the pitch trying to make the most of their first half advantage but this left space behind their defence and Rangers soon used this to their benefit.

Deeping opened the scoring when defender Thomas Needham played the ball through to leading scorer Joe Hussey who finished clinically giving Rangers the lead. Ranger’s captain Ryan Cotterell then grabbed a quick fire hat-trick to effectively seal the match. Jack Baker then added Blues fifth goal of the day with a neat finish before Hussey grabbed his second to leave the half time score at 6-0.

Rangers made changes at half time and had the advantage of the wind in the second period but the goal glut didn’t continue. Glinton sat much deeper in their own half and for long periods Rangers keeper Olly Goode was the only player in the Deeping half. With so many players in one half of the pitch, the match started to resemble pin-ball with the ball rebounding in and around the Glinton half but Rangers still managed to increase their goal tally with Cotterell claiming his fourth and Jamie Scott finding the net to complete the scoring at 8-0 and put the Blues into the last eight!

So it was job done and Deepings great start to the season continues, Glinton praising the boys on how they played and their superb pass and move game. The cup is now “shelved” until the New Year, the draw being made in early Dec and the last eight ties to be played on the 17^th Jan.

So it’s back to league action again on Saturday and an away fixture at SSI. For the record it’s now nine competitive matches this season - eight wins, one defeat, 41 goals scored and only four conceded (at home 5 matches, 5 wins, 24 scored and none conceded), lets try to keep the run going in both the league and cup and see how far we can go!!

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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8.11.08 - PJAL Red Zone

Parkway Eagles 0 v Deeping Rangers Blue 10

RANGERS BACK IN THE TITLE HUNT AFTER 10 GOAL BLAST!

Will we ever play at Itter Park in good weather, if that was the question; the answer on Saturday was a resounding no!! Rangers returned from the league break to face Parkway Eagles, a team who are struggling near the foot of the red zone, but a side that Deeping have always struggled to beat convincingly as results from last seasons meetings at U8 level show.

With the red zones other two form teams meeting (Bourne v Hampton) Rangers knew that a good result at Parkway could open up the race for the title.

Wet and windy sums it up (ok very windy) and today looked like it could be a battle, and after a pre-match talk every Rangers player knew what was expected of them.

The match started and Deeping had the advantage of the wind in the first half, both sides looked a little rusty after the two week layoff and Deeping were struggling to put together their normal passing game. Even so the Deeping defence was largely untroubled and the match was being played in the Parkway half.

After 5 minutes, Rangers finally got the breakthrough and once again it was Blues captain Ryan Cotterell who forced the ball home following the home keepers save. The goal settled Rangers and suddenly the passing football appeared, leading scorer Joe Hussey quickly netted Deepings second, Cotterell then grabbed his second of the game to make it 3-0 before

Jamie Scott scored probably the goal of the game with a cracking long range effort from just over the halfway line which flew over the home keepers head.

Just before half time Cotterell completed his hat-trick to make it 5-0, the Rangers captain again outstanding, his non stop running resulting in three goals from close range always following in shots "just in case."

The Blues made changes at half time and the second half began in similar style to the first, the play was scrappy and even against the wind the ball was in the Parkway half most of the time.

Rangers finally got their sixth goal and what a sublime effort it was. Deeping won a corner and Cotterell went to receive a short one, he then ran towards goal and Baker found him with a superb chip which he clipped in with the outside of his right foot, a stunning goal, Cotterell’s fourth of the match and full marks to Jack Baker who took the corner. Rangers then steadily ran in the goals, Hussey notched his second of the day and number twelve for the season to make it 7-0, and further strikes from Scott, Baker and Scott again, which completed his hat-trick, led to a final score of 10 - 0.

So a resounding win for the Blues and the news that Bourne and Hampton had fought out a 1-1 draw sees us move up into second place in the league just a point behind leaders Hampton.

Most off the plaudits today have gone to Rangers goal scorers but lets not forget that the team this season is built on a solid defence, 8 matches so far and 6 clean sheets, only 4 goals conceded this season is a superb effort.

Next Saturday the Blues turn their attention to the league cup and a second home tie against Glinton Utd from the U9 Blue zone KO 10:30 at Langtoft.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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18.10.08 - PJAL Red Zone

Deeping Rangers Blue 1 v Bourne Town Claret 0

DEEPING’S ‘DERBY’ DELIGHT

Saturday saw as close to a ‘derby’ match as Deeping will face in the Red Zone U9s this season.

The visitors were Bourne Town Clarets who were one place higher than Rangers in the league table, sitting in second place and going into this game held a 100% record, only goal difference keeping them off the top.

Rangers were starting the game missing keeper Olly Goode who has so far had a superb season between the posts, but was away on holiday. Defender Thomas Needham was to take his place between the ‘sticks.’

Lets be honest, Langtoft sports field, home ground of the Blues was not the place to be on Saturday, a strong cold wind was blowing from end to end, this really was going to be a game of two halves.

Deeping played with the advantage of the wind in the first half and pretty much dominated play as you would expect with the conditions. But as much as they tried they could not find an opening in the Bourne rearguard, Rangers played some great passing football but Bourne are not unbeaten this season for nothing and were set up well to withstand Deepings pressure. Bourne did force a couple of first half corners and one well struck free kick that Needham had to be alert to deal with. The half time whistle sounded with the score at 0 - 0 and Bourne were probably the happier of the two camps.

Rangers had a long half-time team talk and knew that they faced a massive battle in the second half, Bourne now having the advantage of the wind held the upper hand but as in the first half every Rangers player battled their hearts out denying Bourne space and fighting for every ball. Rangers also made forays into the Bourne half with strong running from Jamie Scott and Joe Hussey forcing corners and throw ins deep in the Bourne half to relieve the pressure.

Finally a surge by the Deeping front runners saw Joe Hussey put through, he challenged the out rushing keeper and the ball fell for Ranger’s leading marksman Hussey to coolly slot the ball into the empty net and put Deeping ahead.

Bourne spent the remainder of the match desperately trying to get on level terms but the goal seemed to give Rangers extra belief and they defended their lead superbly and could with a better final ball have forced a second goal.

The final whistle sounded and Deeping had secured an impressive victory over their local rivals. Deeping’s players, management, family and fans were ecstatic at the result and the performance of every player in achieving it.

Rangers now head into the two week league break in good heart and good form and return to action on Saturday 8th November away to Parkway Eagles in the under 9 red zone.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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11.10.08 - PJAL League Cup 1^st Round

Deeping Rangers Blue 3 v Hampton White 0

RANGERS RETURN TO WINNING WAYS ON CUP DEBUT

Rangers left league football behind them for this weekend and played in their first ever cup fixture. The draw had been kind to the Blues and they had been given home advantage against Hampton Whites from the PJAL White zone.

Conditions were superb at Langtoft, beautiful sunshine with little wind and a great playing surface greeted both teams. The game started and Deeping immediately gained the upper hand. As early as the first minute the ball broke to Jamie Scott who saw his thunderous shot beat the keeper but crash back off the post. Joe Hussey then went close twice, but on both occasions his efforts beat the keeper but were blocked by covering defenders.

Rangers finally broke the deadlock when Ryan Cotterell was alert in the box and turned in Hussey’s corner to make it 1-0 to Deeping. The Blues though didn’t have it all their own way, even with defensive pairing Thomas Needham and Adam Reeve having fine games, Hampton twice came close to levelling the scores but on both occasions fired efforts over the bar. The final action of the first half saw a fine run and shot from Jack Baker again cannon back off the Hampton post.

The second half saw Deeping have the advantage of what little breeze there was and for a long period the game remained in the balance, Rangers were unable to find a second “killer” goal and stout defending from second half pairing Tom Barnes and Josh Smith gave Blues keeper Olly Goode little to do. Eventually, Rangers second goal arrived and it came as little surprise that it was Blues captain Ryan Cotterell who followed up his initial shot to force home Deepings second. This goal saw Rangers take a firm grip on the game and a goal direct from a corner for this seasons leading scorer Joe Hussey made the final score 3-0.

This was a great all round team performance from front to back and all the boys should be proud of the effort they put in. They can also look forward to the draw for the next round and hopefully another home tie, but next week it’s back to league action with a tough fixture against unbeaten neighbours Bourne Clarets at Langtoft.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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4.10.08 – PJAL Red Zone

Hampton Red 1 v Deeping Rangers Blue 0

DEEPINGS’ HOPES DENTED IN TOP OF TABLE TUSSLE

Something had to give in the U9 Red zone this week with 3 teams boasting 100% records so far this season. Bourne, Hampton and Deeping had won all of their matches, and this week Blues travelled to Hampton in a ‘top of the table clash’.

A howling westerly wind greeted Deeping on their arrival at Beaumont Ave, home of Hampton Reds, luckily the wind was blowing across the pitch, which was rock hard and short of grass, and a tough day was in prospect.

The game started with both sides attempting to master the windy conditions but good football was difficult and the opening stages were evenly contested. As the first half wore on, Hampton became the stronger force in the game testing Deepings back line, but both resolute defending and good luck was keeping the match goalless.

This changed however, as the first half was drawing to a close when a Hampton midfielder broke through and unchallenged made his way into the Deeping area and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the Rangers goal. The half time whistle sounded and the home side held a slender one goal advantage.

The second half saw Rangers slightly more effective in the final area of the field but strong defending from Hampton and poor link up play from Deeping’s forward players couldn’t see them breach Hampton’s rearguard. At the other end, Thomas Needham battled his heart out and keeper Olly Goode pulled off some fine saves to deny Hampton from extending their lead. The final whistle sounded and Deepings winning start to the season was over, Hampton Reds had triumphed 1-0 to keep their excellent start to the season on track.

This match had seen Rangers out battled on a difficult day; the Hampton players seemed ‘more up for the match’ than Deeping and had earned their hard fought victory. But it is still early days in the Red zone and there are many matches to go, 5 games 4 wins and a narrow 1-0 defeat is still a great start to the season at U9 level.

Next week sees Rangers attentions turned to their first ever league cup match having been drawn at home to Hampton’s other side the White’s in the opening round at Langtoft.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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27.9.08 – PJAL Red Zone

Netherton Falcons 3 v Deeping Rangers Blue 4

SCOTT STRIKE SEALS IT AFTER RANGERS DIG DEEP!

Rangers travelled to The Grange to face Netherton Falcons hoping to continue on their winning start in this seasons PJAL Red Zone. After last weeks Indian summer, the Grange was covered with a thick fog and the playing surface moist and slippery, not ideal for good football. Deeping started the brighter of the two sides and looked to have returned to the form shown at Yaxley. Opponents Netherton were struggling to get out of their own half and Deeping were attacking at will however were missing some glorious chances. After ten minutes, a rare Netherton breakaway, led to a corner which was turned by a Deeping defender into their own net, giving Netherton a surprise one nil lead. The goal stunned the Deeping players and led to Netherton’s best period of the game. Just before half-time a long ball into the Deeping area was fired into the unguarded net with keeper Olly Goode grounded on the edge of his area after a fair fifty-fifty challenge. Half-time came with Netherton leading 2 – 0 and Rangers had a mountain to climb to get back in the game.

The second half couldn’t have started much worse, with Rangers conceding a sloppy third goal, poor defending saw a Netherton player fire an unstoppable shot into the top corner of the Deeping goal from the edge of the area. Although 3 – 0 down, Rangers continued to play football and were rewarded with ten minutes left, a fine individual goal from leading scorer Joe Hussey. Seconds after their opening goal Rangers players were stunned to see the Netherton keeper turn over a superb strike from Jack Baker. However, only minutes later, Ryan Cotterell curled in Deepings second with the aid of a slight deflection and it was game on! Netherton were now looking nervous and ninety seconds after his first goal, Cotterell slammed home Deepings equaliser after the home keeper fumbled. On the touchline Rangers supporters were ecstatic at the fight back from 3 – 0 down to 3 – 3, but more was still to come. With three minutes left, Rangers midfielder Jamie Scott fired home from the edge of the area to give Deeping the lead. Four goals in seven minutes had seen Rangers come back from the dead. Netherton’s players were crushed and Rangers could have added to their tally in the closing minutes. The final whistle sounded and the looks on the faces of everyone associated with the Under 9 Blues ‘said it all.’

An unbelievable comeback from the boys who didn’t let their heads drop and battled to the end to extend their winning run. Well done to all the boys, an outstanding performance from everybody in achieving this win.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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20.9.08 – PJAL Red Zone

Deeping Rangers Blue 1 v Thorney Colts 0

RANGERS SCRAPE HOME AND MAINTAIN WINNING START

After last weeks superb all round performance at Yaxley, Rangers had high hopes of a victory against visitors Thorney Colts who have started life at Under 9 level with two defeats and are yet to score a goal in this seasons Red Zone.

Players and supporters were treated to a much appreciated Indian summer on Saturday at Langtoft and everyone hoped that the football would shine like the weather. Sadly this was not to be the case for the Deeping camp, as good as Rangers were last weekend, this week they were the total opposite. This was not aided by a resolute Thorney side that played some great football and battled for the full 30 minutes. Deeping did create several good first half chances but wayward and hurried finishing saw them unable to find the target. The closest effort was from Thorney who were unlucky to see a long range effort crash back off the crossbar which saw the first half finish goalless.

It came as a great relief to Rangers when five minutes into the second half, Ryan Cotterell managed to steer the ball home from just inside the Thorney area. The goal still didn’t settle Deeping and whichever players or formations were tried they were unable to take total control of the game. Both sides hustled and bustled up to the final whistle but no further goals were scored and Deeping were the happier team to hear the final whistle.

Results matter and the facts are that Rangers have played three, won three, fifteen goals for and none against – a great start to the season and something that everyone in the team can build on.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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13.9.08 – PJAL Red Zone

Yaxley Blues 0 v Deeping Rangers Blue 3

HAT-TRICK HERO HUSSEY

Blues travelled to Queens Park in Yaxley to take on the unbeaten home side Yaxley Blues in this Red Zone under 9 fixture. Both teams had finished runners up in their under 8 leagues and a tough match was in prospect. Conditions were ideal for football and a large crowd had gathered to watch the match that was being used by Northants FA as a demonstration for their ‘Respect’ initiative.

Yaxley kicked off the first half and both teams started brightly, both playing some excellent passing football. An example of which led to Deeping’s opening goal with Ryan Cotterell picking up keeper Olly Goode’s goal kick and flicking the ball through to Joe Hussey who beat Yaxley’s keeper at his near post to open the scoring and put Deeping 1 – 0 up. Two minutes later, Jamie Scott crossed and Hussey converted at the back post for his and Deeping’s second goal. Deepings goal had been rarely troubled due to some diligent defending by Josh Smith and Thomas Needham but twice towards the end of the first half Yaxley came close, a long range effort clipping the top of the crossbar and another shot from distance being turned behind by Goode. Half time came and Deeping were pleased to hear the whistle holding a 2 – 0 lead.

Rangers kicked off the second half hoping to continue their passing game, which had stretched their opponents and could result in further goals. A flowing second half move again saw Hussey released and he crashed in his hat-trick and Deeping’s third goal of the morning. Jack Baker and Cotterell’s efforts were dominating midfield and any Yaxley breakaways were comfortably dealt with by Smith and Needham making Rangers keeper Goode a virtual bystander during the second half. The full time whistle sounded and Deeping had triumphed 3 – 0 against quality opponents, the match had been played in a good spirit throughout, a great example for the ‘Respect’ campaign. The entire Deeping team had put in an outstanding display. Well done lads.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott

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6.9.08 – PJAL Red Zone

Deeping Rangers Blue 11 v SSI FC 0

Saturday saw Blues start their under 9 season against league newcomers SSI. This year Blues will play their home games at Langtoft Sports Field and will look to build on a superb opening day result.

From kick off Deeping dominated proceedings and it came as no surprise when Jack Baker opened the scoring, Joe Hussey then added two quick goals and new signing Jamie Scott added the fourth. Ryan Cotterell then opened his account for the season and further goals for Hussey, which completed his hat-trick and Scott saw a one-sided first half finish 7 – 0 to Deeping.

The second half saw Deeping continue to add to their tally with two more from Baker, which completed his hat-trick and further strikes from Adam Reeve and a fourth for Hussey. This made the final score 11-0 against opponents playing their first competitive match, but who never stopped running and tackling. SSI’s goalkeeper deserves a special mention for some superb saves during both halves.

A great start to the season for Deeping Blues Under 9’s but tougher matches lie ahead.

Deeping Rangers Blues – Olly Goode, Thomas Needham, Josh Smith, Tom Barnes, Adam Reeve, Ryan Cotterell, Joe Hussey, Jack Baker and Jamie Scott