Results

16th May 2010

BJFL U13 Cup Knockout Cup Final 2010

Rolleston Red 2 - 3 Marlborough Rovers

A very exciting day for everyone involved with Rolleston FC - a short journey to Church Gresley to the home of Gresley Rovers for the show piece final of 2010. The boys all turned up looking very smart wearing shirts and ties with the manager looking dapper in a three-piece suit. His daughter commenting that he has never looked so smart as she clicked away with her camera!

The pitch was very disappointing for this prestigious game with Marlborough playing down the hill in the first half. The record attendance for this year's final was anticipating a fine game against the two top teams in the First Division.

Both teams tried playing football along the ground but it was proving difficult on the uneven, patchy and rutted surface. Marlborough resorted to the long ball over the top after ten minutes, which wasn't surprising as the ball along the ground became unpredictable.

Rolleston's first chance of the game fell to Dan Wildman on fifteen minutes after a fine through ball from Joe Wilson. He raced at goal shrugging the defender off with his shoulder and as the 'keeper advanced he lobbed the ball over his head from eighteen yards and into the net. But the referee blew for a foul even though the assistant referee was very much closer to the incident and he clearly indicated to play on.

Marlborough pressed the Red's defence and a speculative shot from twenty-five yards opened the scoring as the ball looped over the 'keeper.

Rolleston rallied from the restart with the game settling into a fast tempo. Ryan Benfield won the ball off the toes of his opposite number and drove forward before playing in Joe Wilson, twenty-five yards from goal in a central position. Joe skinned his marker before racing into the area, a second defender forcing him towards the by-line. Joe nutmegged him and drilled the ball to the near post only for another defender to clear the danger.

The league champions came close on two occasions but some resolute defending from Lee Johnson, Dom Hickman, Liam Goode and Lewis Wright ensured the Rolleston 'keeper had little to do.

The midfield battle was hotting up after twenty minutes with Dan Featherstone, Mark Worth and Ryan Benfield all involved in a smooth move down the right but the uneven bounce meant the move came to nothing.

Ben Whitehouse was catching the ball well - giving his defence confidence - and his clearance from his hands was used well.

The Red's were stunned shortly before half-time when another long ball over the top was allowed to bounce and the striker made no mistake to make it two. This was a cruel blow to the Red's as they looked like they had played their way back into the game.

Rolleston showed character from the restart, spraying the ball around the park with Joe Wilson linking well with Dan Wildman and JJ Harris after a fine pass from Liam Goode down the left touchline. The resulting lob from Joe Wilson went floating agonisingly wide.

Half-time 0 - 2.

Rolleston were out of the blocks quickly in the second half, pressing the Marlborough defence immediately with the ball being cleared for a throw. Dan Wildman launched the ball into the heart of the area where Joe Wilson flicked it on towards the near post. The ball was only half cleared to the waiting Ryan Benfield fifteen yards from goal and he coolly side-footed the ball home, through a crowd of players, into the bottom right-hand corner to cut the deficit. He was immediately mobbed by his team-mates who realised how important the strike was.

Two minutes later Rolleston won the ball with JJ Harris pushing forward before laying the ball to Joe Wilson whose resulting low drive shaved the post.

Marlborough were clearly rattled as the Red's grew in confidence and on forty-one minutes a poor Marlborough clearance fell to Dan Wildman twenty-eight yards from goal. He took the ball on his chest before unleashing a fine effort that sailed over the stranded 'keeper and into the net. The celebrations that followed resulted in Dan disappearing under a sea of Red but I don't think he appreciated the two kisses he received from his team-mates!

The first blow of the game for the Red's saw Ryan Benfield, the engine room of the team, limp off with a calf injury on the hour. This meant a quick reshuffle with Reece Atton slotting into the centre alongside Dan Featherstone.

The game was stopped on a number of occasions in the ensuing minutes when players from both sides suffered further injury. The Red's suffered when Dom Hickman had to leave the field after a collision. His right eyebrow visibly swelling up as he left the pitch - this will no doubt upset his looks for a while but the girls of Rolleston needn't fear, as he will be back to his best within ten days!

The Red's captain was next to leave the pitch due to a knee injury after a brave tackle with the hard ground not helping as he twisted his right knee when clearing the danger.

Dan Featherstone slotted into the central position for the remaining minutes and cleared bravely with his head soon after.

The diminutive Lewis Wright put in maximum effort in the right-back position and played the ball down the line intelligently before pushing his defence up.

As both teams began to run low on energy after such an entertaining game the ball fell to the Marlborough captain just outside the Red's area and he released a shot that went over the 'keeper and into the net. Rolleston had no choice but to press from the restart with the seconds ticking away. The formation was changed to 4-3-3 but Marlborough countered by packing their midfield and defence for the remaining minutes. With no more changes available to the manager due to the injuries suffered earlier in the game the ball spent most of the time in the now congested midfield area.

The referee blew his whistle for full time with the Red's visibly drained, disconsolate and disappointed at the result.

This has been a very successful season for the Red's who, it has to be remembered, finished third from bottom in the previous season. So to climb to the runner's up spot this season, including a nineteen game unbeaten run, ten clean sheets and to compete in the Knockout Cup Final is testament to the journey the players have taken to improve.

The players need to remember that Marlborough are unbeaten this season and the Red's are the only team to take a point from them in the league.

The Red's ran them extremely close in this Under 13 Knockout Cup Final and who knows what the outcome might have been if the Red's had not suffered so many injuries to key players on a contributing and far from satisfactory pitch for such a show piece Final with so many quality players on show?

Scorers:

• Ryan Benfield - 1
• Dan Wildman - 1

28th April 2010

Winshill FC Gold 0 - 6 Rolleston Red

The final game of the season had the Red's travelling across the Trent to the home of Winshill FC for a six o'clock kick-off.

Rolleston required the three points to secure the runner's up spot in Division 1 and they started very brightly, winning all fifty-fifty challenges in the opening minutes.

The away team pressed the Winshill defence, forcing them to clear the ball to the Rolleston right-back position where Jordan Taylor advanced running into the heart of the Winshill midfield before crossing the ball to Dan Wildman who charged on goal from a central position before dispatching the ball with his left foot low to the 'keeper's right hand to open the scoring after five minutes.

The Red's settled into a rhythm camping themselves in the Winshill half, spraying the ball from wing to wing with the Winshill defence unable to cope with the quality that they found in front of them. On sixteen minutes a quickly taken Ryan Benfield corner fell to Reece Atton who played the ball to the advancing Dom Hickman's head. His effort was only parried by the 'keeper with the ball falling to Joe Wilson who anticipated the situation well to slot home from very close range to increase the lead.

Rolleston were dominating the play and closing down the Winshill players when they had possession to increase the pressure on the ball. Reece Atton passed to Joe Wilson in the centre of the field before playing in Ryan Benfield. He looked up to spot the run of Dan Wildman who in turn laid the ball to Dan Featherstone on the edge of the area but his shot sailed over the bar.

Applying pressure down the wings meant that the two Winshill full-backs were being worked extremely hard, especially when the tenacious Lewis Wright drilled the ball down the line, and they could only clear for a throw time and again. Dan Wildman took the throw with Dom Hickman venturing forward, timing his run to perfection on three occasions but his efforts either went wide, were saved well by the 'keeper or ricocheted off the bar.

Liam Goode took a knock to the head early on in the game and may well be sporting a shiner for the next few days but this didn't stop him linking well with Lewis McQuillan every time he received the ball.

Both Joe Wilson and Dan Wildman played the ball simply with their backs to goal before the midfield advanced to create more chances but the Winshill 'keeper was on his guard saving well on a number of occasions.

Ben Whitehouse in the Red's goal had a very quiet half due to the pressure being applied to the home team's goal, with his dead ball clearances making good distance each time.

Half-time 0 - 2.

The Red's had adapted well to the hard pitch, playing the ball around on the floor and even when the ball was in the air there was always a Red head available to challenge.

Winshill won their first corner of the game on forty minutes but a brave header by the skipper Lee Johnson cleared the potential danger. A change of 'keeper for Rolleston saw Matt Morgan enter the arena and he was called into action on forty-two minutes as he raced out of his area to clear a long ball from the Winshill half.

More Rolleston pressure resulted in JJ Harris getting his name on the score sheet - his twenty-fourth goal of the season - after he crossed the ball from the left wing twenty yards from goal. The ball ending in the net after uncertainty in the Winshill defence after fifty minutes.

Another venture forward for Dom Hickman a minute later saw him rise above the Gold of Winshill but his header went agonisingly wide of the post.

On sixty minutes the score was increased further when Ryan Benfield first won the ball in midfield and then played it short to Dan Featherstone. He then drilled it intelligently to Mark Worth in the right midfield position twenty-five yards from goal. After controlling the ball he unleashed a fine effort that sailed into the roof of the net. This was pleasing for Mark as he was playing against many of his school friends and I'm sure he will be reminding them of the goal next when he arrives at school in the morning.

The score was increased to five only one minute later after Dom Hickman won the ball in defence and played it along the ground to Dan Featherstone. He spotted the movement of Dan Wildman who had positioned himself between the two central defenders and once he shrugged off the attentions of his marker, raced at goal before dispatching the ball past the advancing 'keeper to make it five for Rolleston and fifty-eight for the season for Dan.

Winshill were weathering the incessant Rolleston pressure well and tried to play their way out of trouble but the visitor's were closing down well every time the home team tried to advance.

On sixty-five minutes Joe Wilson blasted the ball from thirty yards only for the 'keeper to pull off a fantastic save.

The sixth and final goal of the game arrived with two minutes remaining when Dan Featherstone won a header in central midfield and played in Dan Wildman who had his back to goal just inside the Winshill area. He laid the ball back to Joe Wilson who struck a first time rocket that hit the net before the 'keeper knew what was happening. This was Joe's forty-first goal of the season and one of his best.

A fitting end to the season with Rolleston Reds cementing runner's up spot in the league with fifty-nine points. This has been a fantastic season for the Red's who have scored one-hundred-and -sixty league goals and kept eleven clean sheets in all competitions with a positive goal difference of one-hundred-and -twenty-six. A record nineteen game unbeaten run earlier in the season with every outfield player scoring at least one goal during the season. The Red's have Dan Wildman, the top goal scorer in the division with fifty-eight goals. Joe Wilson on forty-one finds himself in the top three, with and JJ Harris in the top fifteen with twenty-four goals. This is testament to the amount of chances created throughout the Rolleston squad.

We have had scouts at a number of our games with one player now playing regularly with Burton Albion; two more who I am convinced will be playing for the Brewer's next season and not forgetting the players who have been invited up to Moor Farm, home of Derby County Academy as well as one further player who has had Aston Villa trials.

The next challenge for the squad is a Cup Final at the Moat Ground and I am sure everyone connected with the club will be relishing the challenge on May 16th.

Finally, a massive thank you to all parents who have ferried their boys in Red across numerous counties, through all kinds of weather, covering hundreds of miles in the process and all for the love of the beautiful game.

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman - 2
• Joe Wilson - 2
• JJ Harris - 1
• 'Dominator' Hickman - 1

24th April 2010

Newhall Lions 1 - 5 Rolleston Red

The first Saturday game of the season with a short trip up the A511 to South Derbyshire on a glorious summer's morning.

A big thank you to the Newhall management team for agreeing the date change, this will now allow Rolleston to complete the Sunday morning cricket fixture.

The small pitch looked very hard underfoot as no rain had fallen for a week as Newhall kicked off.

The visitors won the ball with a fine tackle from Lee Johnson who played the ball along the ground to Mark Worth in the right midfield position. He took on his marker before drifting the ball into Dan Wildman's head and his deft touch played in Joe Wilson who opened the scoring with an accomplished finish down to the 'keeper's right.

From a Lions goal-kick, Ryan Benfield won the ball with a header for Dan Wildman to run onto. He shrugged off his marker before lifting the ball over the advancing 'keeper only for the ball to loop over the bar.

Newhall found it difficult to develop the play as the Red's closed down their opponents at every opportunity. On twenty-two minutes Mark Worth won the ball in midfield and laid the ball to Dan Wildman who then rolled the ball to Joe Wilson. Ryan Benfield demanded the ball and he struck it with venom with the Lions 'keeper holding onto the ball well.

More Rolleston pressure resulted in a fine header from Ryan Benfield with some great play through the midfield after Dom Hickman pinched the ball off the toes of the Newhall striker.

Ben Whitehouse had little to do in the Rolleston goal as his defenders were performing very well in front of him. Lewis Wright had total control over his winger and developed the ball really well to Mark Worth. Over on the left, Liam Goode was linking well with Lewis McQuillan with Lewis cutting in on his right foot to cause problems for the home team. Meanwhile, Lee Johnson looked very comfortable alongside Dom Hickman with the pair winning the vast majority of the play before intelligently developing the ball.

Shortly before half time, Jordan Taylor won the ball out wide on the right and delivered a great ball over the top for Dan Wildman to run onto. He ran at goal, drawing the 'keeper off his line before calmly slotting home to double the lead.

The first half performance from the Red's was composed especially at the back with the home team not able to break down the Rolleston defence.

Half- time 0 - 2.

The visitors pressed from the start of the second half and won a corner almost immediately. Ryan Benfield swung the ball in with his right foot for Dom Hickman to rise in the centre of the goall but pressure from his marker was enough for the ball to rise above the bar. Two further corners applied more pressure to the home team with Newhall under increasing pressure.

Newhall only half cleared a ball that fell to Jordan Taylor after forty-two minutes. He drove in a fine cross that fell to Lewis McQuillan who first controlled and then struck the ball hard and low to the 'keeper's left hand side to make it three.

Only three minutes later Rolleston increased the score further when Dan Featherstone won the ball in the heart of midfield with a header. The ball fell to Lewis McQuillan who played the ball in between the two centre-backs for Dan Wildman to latch onto twenty-five yards from goal. After racing past his marker, Dan took a further touch before hitting home his second of the game with a low left-footed drive.

On a rare attack, the Newhall player advanced after a loose ball from the Rolleston midfield, hitting a shot from twenty-five yards that sailed over the stranded Ben Whitehouse to give the home team a glimmer of hope after fifty-one minutes. Rolleston has other ideas and attacked from the restart. Joe Wilson ran at his marker before playing in JJ Harris. His cross was headed towards goal by Ryan Benfield and with the 'keeper beaten, the defender handled the ball on the line. Dom Hickman stepped up but the ball was saved with the 'keeper's feet.

The Red's continued to play the ball around even though the very hard ground and sweltering conditions made it difficult. The home 'keeper pulled off three fantastic saves to keep the score at four but on sixty-eight minutes he could do little to keep out a Dom Hickman very close range header after a quality outswinging Ryan Benfield corner. This made up for Dom's earlier miss and increased the score to five.

The Red's were now in total control of the remaining minutes with Jordan Taylor, Reece Atton and Mark Worth all linking well with the visitors seeing out the game as the referee blew for full time.

This was a thoroughly deserved win under hot conditions on a pitch that was difficult to play on with Rolleston needing three points from the final game to clinch the runners-up spot in the top division.

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman - 2
• Dom Hickman - 1
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Joe Wilson - 1

18th April 2010

Rolleston Red 5 - 0 Uttoxeter Juniors

What better way to finish the home schedule than on a glorious Sunday morning without a cloud in the sky and the sun beating down at Craythorne?

Most of the boys brought along an additional drink for today's game as the sweltering conditions would mean that hydration was paramount on such a hot day.

Rolleston started very brightly, applying pressure to the visitors defence from the first whistle. After two minutes the home team won their first corner of the game after Dan Wildman pressurised the Uttoxeter defender. The ball was floated in by Ryan Benfield for Dom Hickman to rise above the rest in the congested penalty area but the ball was finally cleared.

Less than one minute later the Red's won the ball again with Dan Wildman delivering a cross from the left for Lewis McQuillan and he headed home the opening goal into the bottom right-hand corner.

Dan Featherstone switched the play from left to right for Jordan Taylor to latch onto his fine pass with the play developing down the line resulting in another Rolleston corner. Dom Hickman powered a header towards the near post but the ball went agonisingly wide.

Uttoxeter were finding it increasingly difficult to get out of their own half resulting in the fifth corner of the game for the home side. Lewis McQuillan played the ball short to Dan Wildman who crossed it for Ryan Benfield to produce a shot that was followed up by JJ Harris.

On a rare excursion into the Rolleston half, the Uttoxeter attacking force were thwarted by Dom Hickman and the impressive Lee Johnson.

Rolleston won a penalty on their next sortie into the visitor's penalty area with Lewis Wright stepping up to fire home his second goal of the season to make it two.

Uttoxeter won their first corner of the game after fifteen minutes that was cleared by Dom Hickman to the edge of the box. The Uttoxeter player fired in a fine effort that Ben Whitehouse saved well.

From Ben's clearance, the ball was allowed to bounce in the Uttoxeter half with Dan Wildman latching onto the ball before taking on the defender. Once passed him he slotted the ball home to the right of the 'keeper.

The visitor's rose to the challenge and won a penalty after twenty-eight minutes after the ball hit a Red's player. Ben stood tall between the sticks with the penalty taker pushing the ball wide of the post.

Rolleston pressed once more with some fine interchanging play between Ryan Benfield, Reece Atton, Lewis McQuillan and Joe Wilson resulting in a fine save from the Uttoxeter 'keeper.

Lewis Wright was playing very well in the left-back position and pressed forward to link with the midfield at every opportunity.

From the Uttoxeter goal kicks, Jordan Taylor made an impressive number of headers to help apply more pressure to the Uttoxeter defence.

The manager was making frequent changes to allow the Red's a chance to rest and re-hydrate.

Joe Wilson received the ball in the right wing position before delivering a cross to Reece Atton, his first time volley brushing the top of the bar.

Rolleston continued to have chances but were denied by some fine goalkeeping.

Half-time 3 - 0.

The visitors started the second half well and contained Rolleston in the opening minutes. Joe Wilson won the ball after forty minutes and advanced with the assistance of Reece Atton, winning a throw that was quickly taken to Dan Featherstone. His shot went wide of the far post. More fine build-up play this time involving Dan Wildman, Jordan Taylor and Mark Worth resulted in another shot heading towards the Uttoxeter goal.

A change of 'keeper for the home side saw Matt Morgan enter the fray after fifty minutes.

More Rolleston pressure resulted in a throw that Reece Atton took quickly to Mark Worth whose volley was heading for the top corner, with Dan Featherstone following up, but the 'keeper managed to keep hold of the ball.

More changes for the Rolleston squad resulting in Dan Featherstone playing alongside the inspiring Lee Johnson in defence.

On the hour mark, Joe Wilson delivered a superb cross into the Uttoxeter box where Dan Wildman was waiting to hit home his second of the game and Rolleston's fourth without reply.

The visitors tried to play the ball forward but the impish Lewis Wright was very impressive in the right-back position and after winning the ball played it intelligently along the line.

The final goal of the game arrived in the last minute when JJ Harris played a great through ball to Jordan Taylor, who had advanced into the Uttoxeter box and he made no mistake to fire home the fifth goal of the game.

This was a fitting way to end the last home fixture of the season, with five goals and the ninth clean sheet of the season and takes Rolleston back to the top of the division. The Red's will continue to push for a top three finish with the added bonus of a Cup Final to look forward to.

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman - 2
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Jordan Taylor - 1
• Lewis Wright - 1

13th April 2010

Rolleston Red 1 - 2 Heather Junior Ravens

Earlier in the day the sun shone and the temperature rose steadily but shortly before this evening kick-off the temperature nosedived, the dark clouds appeared on the horizon and the rain began to fall, with umbrellas evident on the sidelines for the first time in weeks

Heather turned up at Craythorne without their mandatory player i.d. cards, which is an automatic forfeiture of the game under BJFL rules but the Red's decided to play the fixture as a lot of people had made the effort to turn out for the game.

The play was even in the opening minutes with the ball flowing from end to end. Heather had the wind at their backs for the first half and the 'keeper was taking full advantage with his kicking. The Dominator was, once again, leading by example, picking up the ball on numerous occasions as the midfield were finding it hard to get going.

Matt Morgan was called upon to sweep up the ball on twenty minutes as it was allowed to bounce causing havoc in the Rolleston defence. Lewis Wright demanded the ball and then played it down the line to the energetic Jordan Taylor who first controlled and then played it infield to Ryan Benfield. He advanced on goal before smashing the ball from twenty yards that beat the 'keeper but rebounded off the bar. Mark Worth anticipated the rebound but the ball was cleared.

Lee Johnson marshalled the tricky Heather striker and combined with Dom Hickman, grew in confidence as the game evolved. Unfortunately, the majority of the Red's were off the pace and second to the ball, giving Heather the opportunity to press forward, putting the home team under unnecessary pressure.

Once again the ball was delivered by Dom Hickman only for it to be too easily cleared, applying danger to the Rolleston defence as the striker advanced before beating the Red's 'keeper to open the scoring after thirty-two minutes.

Rolleston tried to respond from the restart but were too slow to pick up the pieces and any potential Red threat was cleared.

Liam Goode linked well with both Ryan Benfield and Dan Featherstone but once the ball was played forward no further pressure was applied and the Red threat was cleared.

Half-time 0 - 1.

After a stern half-time talk, Rolleston started the second half brightly with Lewis McQuillan and JJ Harris being introduced to inject more energy. Joe Wilson chased down a pass near the corner flag and skinned his marker before winning a free-kick. Ryan Benfield drilled the ball in hard and low, beating both the defenders and 'keeper with the ball hitting the back of the net for the equalizer after forty-five minutes.

This gave Rolleston renewed energy and they pressed once more with JJ Harris squaring the ball to Dan Wildman twenty yards from goal and his effort was well saved by the visitors 'keeper.

The midfield of Reece Atton and Dan Featherstone competed for the ball but seemed to be outnumbered with no further developments through the central position.

Injuries to Ryan Benfield and Dan Wildman meant a reshuffle in the Red's line up and this had a positive effect on Heather. As Rolleston pressed for the winner, the ball was lost in the Raven's left-back position with it then being moved quickly through midfield and then on to the strike force. This caught Rolleston on the back foot and with only two minutes remaining, Matt Morgan advanced to cut down the angle but the striker hit home.

Rolleston played with three at the back for the remaining minutes, pushing Heather deeper and deeper, with Lewis McQuillan having two efforts on goal before the referee blew the final whistle.

So, the Rolleston bubble that has been slowly inflated over the last nineteen games has burst. A total of five games in less than two weeks has taken its toll on the depleted Rolleston squad but it should be remembered that a nineteen game unbeaten run is an achievement that everyone at the club should be immensely proud of, together with a cup run that has resulted in a final to take place at the end on 16th May at the Moat Ground.

The Red's will have to bounce back on Sunday to continue their quest to finish as high up the table as possible with a maximum twelve points to play for.

Scorer:

• Ryan Benfield

11th April 2010

Rolleston Red 9 - 1 Chasetown

Shorts and flip-flops were the order of the day on a beautiful summer Sunday morning at Craythorne as the hosts entertained Chasetown in this top of the table clash.

The game started brightly with both sides wanting to play the ball on the ground.

Rolleston broke the deadlock after fourteen minutes when the combative Ryan Benfield forced the Chasetown played into a back pass that the 'keeper picked up for a Rolleston indirect free-kick eight yards from goal. The quick thinking Joe Wilson rolled the ball to Dan Wildman and he opened the scoring from close range.

Chasetown continued to play football and were rewarded seventeen minutes into the game when a through ball wrong footed the Red's defenders and the striker slotted the ball past the advancing Matt Morgan.

This galvanised the home team who pressed once more with Mark Worth playing the ball to Dan Featherstone on the edge of the area. His shot rattled the bar before being cleared.

Rolleston continued to apply the pressure and when Joe Wilson chased down what looked like a lost cause, he played the ball back to Dan Wildman whose shot beat the 'keeper at his near post - this was Dan's fiftieth goal of the season.

Both Liam Goode and Lewis Wright demanded the ball from Matt Morgan and developed the ball well down both flanks and from one of these sorties Ryan Benfield received the ball before delivering a great pass to Joe Wilson and he toe poked the ball home to make it three.

Rolleston were now playing with lots of confidence and after a string of passes that involved Liam Goode, Dan Wildman and Jordan Taylor, the ball was rolled to Dan Featherstone on the edge of the box and his deft chip beat the 'keeper to increase the lead.

Dom Hickman advanced with the ball after winning it cleanly in the central defensive position. He passed the ball to Joe Wilson who noticed that the 'keeper was off his line. His quality chip looked to be going in but hit the bar and Mark Worth was first to react and he squared the ball to Dan Wildman who hit home for his ninth hat-trick of the campaign after thirty-four minutes.

The home team won the ball from the restart and pressed once more. This time the ball was cleared for a corner. Ryan Benfield swung in a quality ball and it was Dom Hickman who headed home from very close range to increase the score to six.

Half- time 6 - 1.

The Red's started the second period with high energy levels and put the visitors on the back foot with Ryan Benfield driving with the ball through the centre of midfield and again the ball was cleared for yet another corner. Ryan drilled the ball to the near post that was half cleared to the waiting Dan Wildman and he scored his fourth of the game with a fine half volley after forty-one minutes.

More Rolleston pressure was being applied as the game wore on and JJ Harris unleashed a superb effort from distance that the 'keeper tipped over for another corner. The Chasetown 'keeper pulled off three more quality saves before being beaten once more from close range. This all started after Ben Whitehouse rolled the ball to Liam Goode in the left-back position. He advanced to beyond the half way line and delivered a fine cross to Mark Worth. He controlled the ball and then chipped it over the defenders. The 'keeper could only parry the ball to JJ Harris who headed home.

Chasetown were now totally demoralised and the Red's continued to play the ball out wide at every opportunity. Lewis Wright had his abrasive opponent well under control and when he won the ball played it infield to Lee Johnson. He played the ball across the park to Liam Goode who advanced before laying it infield to Dan Wildman. Dan took on two players and then rolled the ball to Mark Worth twenty yards from goal. Mark looked up and delivered a wonderful cross for the master sniffer JJ Harris to hit home to make it nine.

Rolleston continued to play football until the final whistle and should take great pride in their display today. The Red's remain top of the division with a marked increase in goal difference and remain unbeaten in nineteen games.

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman - 4
• Joe Wilson - 1
• Dan Featherstone - 1
• Dominic Hickman - 1
• JJ Harris - 2

09th April 2010

Rolleston Silver 1 - 10 Rolleston Red

The final derby game of the season at Craythorne on a wonderful evening to play the most popular game on the planet.

The anxieties of the manager's, the excitement for the spectators - including a cluster of volatile girls - and not forgetting the players as they entered the arena on the warmest day of the year so far.

To stop the clash of colours, the Reds had a change of shirt to dark blue, courtesy of Alan Featherstone, and once the sizing was sorted the boys settled down to concentrate on their warm up before the referee whistled for the captain's to toss the coin.

The Red's kicked-off on the small pitch and won a throw immediately on the right twenty-five yards from goal. Dan Wildman unleashed a quality delivery with Joe Wilson rising above the rest to head home in the second minute.

The Red's were playing some fantastic football in the opening minutes with the reward of a second goal on eight minutes when Dan Featherstone fed Dan Wildman inside the box. He lifted the ball over the advancing 'keeper to double the lead.

The pattern of play from the Silver's was the long ball from goal kicks but 'Dominator' Hickman was supreme with his reading of the game, heading the ball each time to clear to the waiting midfield.

After ten minutes Mark Worth picked up the ball from a Lewis Wright pass to advance on goal before playing in Joe Wilson who calmly lobbed the Silver's 'keeper to increase the lead further.

Joe completed his eleven-minute hat-trick after receiving the ball from JJ Harris out on the left. He took a touch before firing the ball home.

The Silver's pressed and were rewarded with their only goal of the game when, for once, the Red's failed to clear the ball.

From the restart, the Red's replied when Dan Wildman chased the ball down in the Silver's box. He then rolled the ball to Lewis McQuillan who crossed for Joe Wilson to once again head home to make it five.

The Red's pressure was rewarded with a total of ten corners and their play was supreme in the first half.

Half-time 1-5.

The second half started with the Red's in the ascendancy. Reece Atton linked with Ryan Benfield who in turn played in Dan Wildman. He laid the ball to Lewis McQuillan on the edge of the box whose first time shot rattled the bar.

Dom Hickman, time and time again read the long ball very well, clearing any potential danger to set up another attack. The sixth goal emanated from Dom when he first won the ball and played it to Joe Wilson. He advanced before crossing the ball to Dan Wildman who controlled the ball before rolling it to Ryan Benfield whose shot was unstoppable after fifty-five minutes.

The away team pressed once more and were again rewarded when Ryan Benfield won a tackle in the middle of the park. Joe Wilson demanded the ball on the edge of the area to poke home the seventh goal of the game.

From the restart the Red's won the ball with Jordan Taylor advancing down the right wing before delivering a fine cross to the waiting Lewis McQuillan who struck the ball into the roof of the net.

More Red pressure resulted in another corner. Lewis McQuillan drilled the ball to the near post were the defenders missed the chance to clear and the king-poacher, JJ Harris, was on hand to head home from close range.

The home team continued to try but the Red's were too strong, especially in defence with Lee Johnson winning the vast majority of the ball. Liam Goode linked very well with both Lewis McQuillan and JJ Harris. Lewis Wright battled extremely well, winning the ball before developing the play down the right-hand side and Dom Hickman marshalled everyone expertly. He played out of his skin, giving a lift to the team whenever he had the ball.

There was time for one more goal with JJ Harris taking on his marker before delivering a cross that was cleared to the waiting Mark Worth. He danced past two players before striking the ball towards goal. The 'keeper could only parry the ball and it was Joe Wilson who headed home from very close range for his second hat-trick of the game.

Joe Wilson's double hat-trick deserves a mention and this takes him shooting up the goal scoring chart. The Red's have three players in the top fifteen and this is testament to the amount of chances created throughout the season, with a total of one-hundred-and -thirty-four goals scored to date with six league games remaining.

This was a great win for the Red's who, once again, head the league table. The players of both squads should take pride in their performance but it was the supremacy of the Red's that shone through with Dom Hickman in awesome form in defence.

Scorers:

• Joe Wilson - 6
• Ryan Benfield - 1
• JJ Harris - 1
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Dan Wildman - 1

06th April 2010

Rolleston Red 14 - 0 Repton Casuals Blue

The first evening fixture of the season saw the Reds entertain Repton Casuals Blue at Craythorne on a fine spring evening.

The visitors were low on numbers but the Reds could only play what is put in front of them.

Rolleston opened the scoring after only two minutes when Ryan Benfield played a fine pass to Dan Wildman inside the Casual's penalty box. He controlled the ball before dispatching it low to the 'keeper's left.

Two minutes later the score was doubled when Mark Worth's fine effort beat the 'keeper down to his right.

Repton huffed and puffed but once the Reds realised that the ball should be doing all the work and spreading it out to the wings at every opportunity was the way to play then the score was increased further when Ryan Benfield drilled in a quality shot from the edge of the eighteen yard box.

After seventeen minutes Jordan Taylor drove in a corner that was only half cleared to Dan Wildman and he made no mistake, driving the ball into the back of the net.

Jordan Taylor's energy levels were impressive and when he received the ball from a Dan Wildman throw, he delivered a great cross to the back post were Mark Worth was waiting to notch his second of the game and Rolleston's fifth.

On twenty-nine minutes the score was increased further when Jordan Taylor crossed the ball to Reece Atton. He in turn laid the ball to Mark Worth who took on his marker before playing in Dan Wildman who dispatched the ball into the net for his seventh hat-trick of the season.

The Red's defence were rarely troubled but Dom Hickman and Lee Johnson were switched on to the potential danger and played their way out of defence to either Liam Goode or Lewis Wright. They in turn developed the play down the wings.

Half-time 6 - 0.

The manager was making numerous changes to allow players the opportunity to impress in different positions and once everyone settled the goals began to flow.

Liam Goode put in a superb cross from the left-wing that Joe Wilson headed home from close range.

Joe was on hand again two minutes later after JJ Harris played the ball between the two central defenders. He calmly lifted the ball over the advancing 'keeper to make it eight.

Ryan Benfield ran at the defence when he received the ball out on the right wing from Reece Atton. He then delivered a fine pass to JJ Harris who drove the ball home.
Matt Morgan rolled the ball out to Dom Hickman who in turn drilled the ball to the advancing Liam Goode. He skinned his marker before crossing the ball into the box, where Joe Wilson headed home his third goal of the game - this was Joe's fifth hat-trick of this season.

Mark Worth floated in the eleventh corner of the game after fifty-eight minutes, only to be half cleared to Dom Hickman, who was lurking on the left edge of the area. Dom controlled the ball before serenely curling it into the top right hand corner. This was the most superior goal of the game with the spectators showing their appreciation.

Liam Goode was enjoying the freedom of playing out wide left and when he received the ball from Reece Atton advanced before drifting a ball under the bar that deceived everyone and ended up in the back of the net.

Rolleston continued to spray the ball around and with the Casual's tiring after showing maximum effort the score was increased further. Fine interplay from Mark Worth and Ryan Benfield ended with Lewis Wright receiving the ball at the far post. He feigned a shot to commit the 'keeper before slotting the ball home for his first ever goal. The remaining squad mobbed him as he has been nagging the manager for months to get the chance to score. He had earlier hit the bar and had the ball in the back of the net only for it to be called offside so this was a relief for everyone when he finally got on the score sheet!

There was time for one more goal and it arrived in the final minute. Dan Wildman picked up the ball in defence and advanced into the Repton half before drilling the ball to Joe Wilson. He smashed the ball home from inside the area for his fourth and Rolleston's fourteenth goal of the game.

Yet another clean sheet for the Red's today and when the boys settled into the game after twenty minutes realising that the only way to play the opposition was to pass the ball around them then the goals began to flow.

The Casual's should take maximum credit for their efforts tonight and I'm sure they will all sleep soundly after their efforts. The Rolleston manager made many changes throughout the game, with most of the boys playing in alien positions for a large portion of the game to compensate for the lack of opposition. No matter where the home team squad played, they put on a fine show and should be extremely pleased with the outcome. This takes the Red's back up to second position in the league, applying pressure to the leaders with Rolleston now unbeaten in seventeen games.

Scorers:

• Joe Wilson - 4
• Dan Wildman - 3
• Mark Worth - 2
• Ryan Benfield - 1
• Liam Goode - 1
• JJ Harris - 1
• Dom Hickman - 1
• Lewis Wright - 1

28th March 2010

BJFL U13's Knockout Cup Semi-Final

Rolleston Red 6 - 0 Repton Casuals Blue

A festival of football at the home of Willington FC in Derbyshire today. Three semi-finals took place either side of twelve o'clock with the pitches having been rolled and roped off the night before. Willington proved to be fine hosts today with both drinks and hot fresh food available on this fine spring day.

Only one parent forgot to advance their clocks one hour but he took full advantage of the barbeque on offer as he waited for the rest of the squad to appear at the appointed time.

A Match of the Day commentator quoted 'The joy of six' earlier in the day and that is how this game turned out for the Reds.

Rolleston pressed from the start, pushing Repton back to their eighteen-yard line in the opening minutes. When the Casuals finally cleared the ball it fell to Liam Goode in the left-back position. He drilled the ball down the touchline to the waiting Joe Wilson who advanced with the ball to the edge of the area. The defender committed himself too early allowing Joe to lob the advancing 'keeper to open the scoring after only four minutes.

The game was all Rolleston with Lee Johnson, once again, leading like a true captain and Dom Hickman reading the game very well.

After eleven minutes the score was doubled when JJ Harris played Dan Wildman through. He advanced quickly from thirty yards out and when the 'keeper closed down the angle he coolly rounded him before slotting home with his left foot.

The Derby scouts were out in force for this game and were suitably impressed with what they were witnessing from the Red's squad.

The first change of the game saw Mark Worth enter the fray in the wide right position. He received a square ball pass from Dan Wildman on twenty-nine minutes and advanced directly towards goal. He then unleashed a stunning shot from twenty-five yards that hit the back of the net with the Casual's 'keeper stranded.

The spring wind seemed to increase as it blew across the pitch but with Rolleston playing so much of their football on the ground it had little affect on their play. Ryan Benfield and Dan Featherstone were linking the play between the defence and attack very efficiently and Ben Whitehouse was using the ball intelligently when he had the chance of a touch in goal.

The Reds were now in full control of this semi-final with Repton unable to do much but chase shadows.

Half-time 3- 0.

Rolleston started the second half with bags of energy and creativity, spraying the ball out to the wide players who advanced down the wing to put Repton under increasing pressure. Lewis McQuillan linked well with Lewis Wright down the right wing with the Casual's left-back not knowing whether he was coming or going.

The fourth goal of the game arrived on forty-seven minutes when Dan Wildman, Lewis Wright and Joe Wilson linked extremely well down the right. The impressive Joe Wilson received a short throw from Dan Wildman near the corner flag before delivering a great cross that was only half cleared to the waiting Lewis Wright. He drilled the ball towards goal which was deflected to Dan Wildman who slotted home from fifteen yards low to the diving 'keeper's right.

More changes meant that the game became scrappy but Rolleston continued to press and were rewarded once more after sixty-two minutes after Joe Wilson and JJ Harris linked very well before laying the ball to Mark Worth. He notched his second of the game to make it five without reply.

Ryan Benfield's energy levels were supreme today and his enthusiasm spread to the rest of his team mates right to the final whistle. Rolleston were relentless with the Casual's sitting deeper and deeper as the game entered the final few minutes.

Simon Billings kept close tabs on the tricky left-winger and Reece Atton was brave in the centre of midfield as Repton found it increasingly difficult to find a way through. The skipper mopped the blood from his nose after taking an elbow that the referee missed but played on regardless, winning a number of headers and playing the ball out along the ground to the front runners.

A change of 'keeper saw Matt Morgan take his chance between the sticks and he had to be alert when the ball was played over the top with the aid of the increasing wind. He then cleared the ball wide to the waiting Simon Billings. After controlling the ball it was played down the line to Mark Worth who skinned his marker before delivering a great cross to the back post where Dan Wildman was waiting to hit home his hat-trick from close range after sixty-eight minutes.

The Derby scouts witnessed a lot of potential from the Red's squad today and have taken details of a number of players who impressed throughout the game.

This was a well-deserved win for the Reds who now face Marlborough Rovers in the final after they scraped a single goal victory over Rocester in the afternoon semi-final. The final will be played at the Moat Ground, the home of Gresley Rovers FC on May 16th.

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman - 3
• Mark Worth - 2
• Joe Wilson - 1
  

21st March 2010

Rolleston Red 11 - 0 Rocester

Spring was definitely in the air as all of the Rolleston squad arrived well ahead of the prearranged time set by the manager. This truly was a wonderful day for the beautiful game.

Rocester kicked off but lost the ball immediately as the Reds pressed the visitors from the first minute. Dan Wildman won the ball with a fine tackle before laying it back to Dan Featherstone who took a touch and then played a quality pass to Joe Wilson on the edge of the Rocester area. Joe unleashed a fine low drive that beat the 'keeper down to his right.

The early strike unsettled Rocester and after more Rolleston pressure the score was doubled when Lewis McQuillan opened his account from close range.

Rocester struggled to string any passes together as the Rolleston team were firing on all cylinders. Time and again the Reds flooded forward, playing some fine football down the sidelines that Rocester could not cope with. This relentless pressure paid dividends on twenty-one minutes from Rolleston's fifth corner of the game. The ball was only half cleared to Ryan Benfield on the edge of the area. He controlled the ball before driving a wonder shot into the roof of the net to make it three.

More pressure from Rolleston saw their lead increase further when the impressive Jordan Taylor drove in the ball. Dan Wildman reacted first to head home his fortieth goal of the season from ten yards.

The Rocester defence were sitting deeper and deeper as the Reds flooded forward at every given opportunity. This continuous pressure was converted to another goal when Jordan Taylor whipped in the tenth corner of the half. JJ Harris was sniffing at the back post and made no mistake from very close range to make it five without reply.

The manager started to swap positions and players around and for once the Rolleston rhythm continued to flow resulting in a further goal after Dan Wildman crossed the ball from out wide left. Reece Atton lifted the ball over the advancing defender to Dan Featherstone whose shot was only parried by the 'keeper with JJ Harris picking up the pieces to slot home his second goal of the game - this was a great early birthday present for JJ who is making a habit of scoring from close range.

The Rolleston defence - Lee Johnson, Dom Hickman, Lewis Wright and Liam Goode - where rarely troubled and they provided great cover for the 'keeper who had very little to do. When Ben Whitehouse cleared the ball from his hands he used the ball well, punting it out to the wings were the game was then developed resulting in continuous pressure on the Rocester defence.

Half-time 6 - 0.

The second half began where the first finished with Henry Parker taking advantage of some fine Rolleston play, striking home from close range to make it seven.

The manager took the opportunity to change players around with Dan Wildman moving to right midfield and JJ Harris out on the left. The eighth goal arrived on forty-two minutes when Dan Wildman advanced with the ball from a central position before striking it low to the 'keeper's right to increase the score even further.

Rolleston's pressure was telling when a short corner from Ryan Benfield was played to Liam Goode. He drilled the ball to the back post where Joe Wilson headed home his second of the day.

Lewis McQuillan was on the score sheet for a second time after a fine Ryan Benfield corner, slotting home from close range.

The final goal of the game arrived after sixty-five minutes. Lewis McQuillan played a fine pass to Joe Wilson who had advanced into the Rocester area. As the 'keeper advanced, Joe cheekily used his knee to lift the ball over the stranded 'keeper into the net. This was a great way for Joe to achieve his hat-trick and was well deserved.

Rocester were totally demoralised and their mood wasn't helped by some fine Rolleston defending. Simon Billings clearing the ball with his head on two occasions, Dom Hickman was reading the game very well, Lee Johnson winning every fifty-fifty ball, Lewis Wright developing the ball well down the flanks and Matt Morgan clearing the ball well when required.

This was an excellent display from Rolleston today. The squad played great football and defended as a team. The sixth clean sheet of the season is testament to that fact. Rolleston have now scored a total of one hundred and ten league goals this season, with the goals being scored from virtually every position.

Scorers:

• Joe Wilson - 3
• Lewis McQuillan - 2
• Ryan Benfield - 1
• Dan Wildman - 2
• JJ Harris - 2
• Henry Parker - 1

07th March 2010

Rolleston Red 6 - 1 Newhall Lions

A semi-frozen pitch after a cold night were temperatures dropped to minus three meant a fifteen minute delay due to a thawing pitch on a beautiful morning. This allowed the players to admire the circling buzzard and the sound of a nearby woodpecker before the game got under way with Rolleston kicking into the rising sun.

The Reds started very brightly, attacking from the off and putting the visitors on the back foot.

Jordan Taylor was first to react in the right-back position, playing a great through ball to the advancing Joe Wilson. He took on his marker before delivering a fine drive down to the 'keeper's left to open the scoring after four minutes.

Newhall were under the cosh due to the competitive nature of the Rolleston team and the Reds had three chances to increase their lead before the Lions had a shot at Ben Whitehouse in the home teams goal.

After all the pressure, Rolleston had their third corner of the morning on twenty-five minutes. Jordan Taylor was involved once more, flicking on the ball to Dan Featherstone who timed his run to perfection to rifle home a header that the 'keeper had no chance of saving.

Ben Whitehouse was communicating very well with his defenders as the visitors settled for the long ball over the top. He advanced on three occasions to collect the ball at the edge of his area before clearing intelligently down the sidelines.

Newhall tried to play the ball out of defence but the tenacious Rolleston players closed down time and again. It was from this pressure that the impressive Ryan Benfield received the ball before delivering a quality pass to Joe Wilson twenty-five yards from goal in a central position. He took a touch before Dan Wildman demanded the ball, advancing past the central defender, rounding the 'keeper before slotting home to make it three without reply.

The Rolleston central defensive pairing of Dom Hickman and Lee Johnson was supreme, giving confidence to the remaining defenders. Liam Goode played some fine deliveries down the left wing and Jordan Taylor's energy levels were evident for all to see.

Half-time 3- 0.

Rolleston carried on the second half in the same positive manner as the first, winning all fifty-fifty balls and playing some great football that was a joy to watch.

When Liam Goode won the ball on the left, he played a great ball to Henry Parker who took a touch before passing the ball to Dan Featherstone in midfield. Spanner spotted the run of Jordan Taylor - who had been moved up to midfield - playing a pass between the two defenders for Jordan to run onto. Jordan advanced to the edge of the area before calmly lobbing the advancing stranded 'keeper to make it four after forty-one minutes. Jordan deserved his goal after showing such commitment throughout the game.

Lewis Wright was as combative as ever, winning the ball on three separate occasions before developing the play down the right wing.

Wave after wave of Rolleston pressure pushed the visitor's further back and the Red's won a penalty after fifty minutes. The skipper, Lee Johnson, stepped up and confidently dispatched the ball into the top right-hand corner. This was Lee's first goal for a very long time and he clearly enjoyed it as his teammates mobbed him in celebration. His Dad was also elated to see the ball hit the back of the net as he was convinced that the skipper's role was to help stop goals going in at the other end of the pitch!

Newhall tried to play their way up the field and were rewarded with a goal from distance when the midfield didn't close down the advancing player quick enough.

This spurred Rolleston to advance once more and their tenacity reaped rewards after sixty-five minutes from a Dan Wildman throw that was flicked on by the ubiquitous Ryan Benfield. Reece Atton was first to react and slotted home from close range to make it six.

The manager was pleased with the outcome and his life was made a little easier when a third player made himself unavailable shortly before kick-off. This meant the rotation of players was less frequent, allowing the Reds to play some fantastic linkup football without the disruption of too many changes.

This takes the Reds back to the top of the division - for a short period - as the remaining fixtures all take place in the afternoon.

It was great to see six different names on the score sheet today, especially the skipper. His goal celebration needs some work but being mobbed by his peers was celebration enough!

Scorers:

• Reece Atton - 1
• Ryan Benfield - 1
• Dan Featherstone - 1
• Jordan Taylor - 1
• Dan Wildman - 1
• Joe Wilson - 1

14th February 2010

Repton Casuals White 1 - 13 Rolleston Red

A wonderful spring-like morning greeted both players and spectators alike at Broomhills Lane for this early kick-off.

The Reds had a positive preparation for the game with a thorough warm-up session and this showed from the start as Rolleston flew forward down the right wing with Mark Worth playing in a great cross for Dan Wildman to latch on to. His first time shot could only be parried by the 'keeper with the ball falling at the feet of Henry Parker who slotted home from close range.

The visitors were playing some fine football with good interlinking play down both channels reaping rewards on six minutes from a Lewis McQuillan throw twenty-five yards from goal on the left. Dan Wildman received the ball before flicking it over the central defender. He advanced to the edge of the area and unleashed a great effort that smashed into the roof of the net to double the lead.

Three minutes later Mark Worth raced down the right wing once more, skinning his marker before delivering a fine cross to the back post for Lewis McQuillan to hit home.

Repton tried to play their way out of trouble but Rolleston were up to the challenge pressing at every opportunity. This pressure told on the White's after thirteen minutes when the impressive Mark Worth crossed a ball that the 'keeper could only parry. The ball fell to Henry Parker eight yards from goal and when Dan Featherstone demanded the ball from the edge of the area he opened his account with a rocket that almost burst the net.

The Rolleston midfield were dominating the game and when Repton tried to break it was Lee Johnson, Dom Hickman, Jordan Taylor and Lewis Wright who stopped the potential threat before developing the play.

Dan Featherstone was on the score sheet once more after seventeen minutes following some great interplay between Jordan Taylor, Ryan Benfield, Mark Worth and culminating in a cross from Dan Wildman to the far post where Feather was waiting to slot home with his left foot to increase the lead to five without reply.

The manager was holding back the changes after the experience of Uttoxeter the previous week and this showed as the eleven players on the pitch were passing the ball around well with some pleasing football that was a pleasure to watch from the sidelines.

Lewis Wright was desperate to get his name on the score sheet and when he received the ball twenty-five yards from goal he controlled the ball before hitting a rocket of a shot that was heading for the top corner but at the very last second the ball dipped and hit the crossbar.

Shortly before half-time the score was increased further from a quick Dan Wildman throw to Tom Dune. He raced to the near post before slotting the ball under the advancing 'keeper.

Half-time 0 - 6.

The sun was still shining for the start of the second half when Rolleston pressed from the off. The Repton defence were on their heels once more after forty-one minutes when Reece Atton played the ball along the ground to Dan Wildman thirty yards from goal in a central position. He ran at the defence to hit home a low drive from the edge of the area.

Rolleston won their ninth corner of the game after forty-five minutes. Dan Wildman took it quickly spotting Ryan Benfield lurking on the edge of the area. He controlled the ball before unleashing a fine low drive that ricocheted off the post before hitting the back of the net.

Less than one minute later another Dan Wildman throw fell to JJ Harris at the near post and he hit home with a half volley, showing good technique.

On a rare break, Repton won a penalty that the player dispatched with style but this only galvanised Rolleston who scored from the restart after Joe Wilson crossed the ball to the back post where JJ Harris was gambling to slot home his second of the game and Rolleston's tenth goal.

The very impressive Jordan Taylor won the ball in the right-back position and played it to Ryan Benfield in midfield. He advanced quickly before rolling the ball to Tom Dunne who skipped past his marker and then delivered a cross to the waiting Joe Wilson on the six yard box. Joe hit the ball first time to make it eleven.

Yet another Rolleston corner was drilled in by Ryan Benfield after fifty-three minutes with Dom Hickman making an appearance in the box to hit home with a bullet header from ten yards.

The league leaders were playing with supreme confidence, knocking the ball around making it hard for Repton and when they tried to develop the play it was both Dom Hickman and Lee Johnson who anticipated the ball well to cut out any potential threat.

The final goal of the game arrived on sixty-four minutes after the ball was played down the Rolleston right. Simon Billings played the ball to Reece Atton who in turn passed to Mark Worth on the right wing. He raced past his marker, cutting into the area and played an unselfish pass to the waiting Dan Featherstone on the edge of the area whose resulting shot hit the underside of the bar before crossing the line. This was a well deserved hat-trick for Spanner and he was clearly elated but his request for the match ball fell on deaf ears!

Whilst the manager was disappointed to have conceded a goal - again after making changes to ensure all the players had some time on the pitch - he was extremely happy to see nine different names on the score sheet as well as witnessing some fine football.

A special mention to Mark Worth, Jordan Taylor and Lee Johnson who all shone throughout the game today. This increases the Red's unbeaten run and cements their place at the top of the table with a number of teams hanging on to their coat tails.

It is the Red of Rolleston that shines through and not the red of St Valentine's Day on this, the most romantic day of the year!

Scorers:

• Dan Featherstone - 3
• JJ Harris - 2
• Dan Wildman - 2
• Ryan Benfield - 1
• Tom Dunne - 1
• Dom Hickman - 1
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Henry Parker - 1
• Joe Wilson - 1

07th February 2010

Uttoxeter Juniors 0 - 7 Rolleston Red

A mid-afternoon kick-off for the Reds today with the short trip to the home of Uttoxeter Juniors on a calm yet very cold day.

This was the second game of the day to be played on the heavy pitch but the Reds continued playing their football and this reaped rewards on six minutes when stand-in captain Ryan Benfield passed the ball along the ground to Dan Wildman twenty-five yards from goal. He took a touch before threading a pass through to the advancing Joe Wilson whose low driven shot beat the 'keeper from the edge of the box.

Uttoxeter found it hard to string any passes together due to the pressure being applied across the Rolleston team and it was from this pressure that Liam Goode picked up the ball in the left-back position. He raced forward with the ball before laying it off to Ryan Benfield who in turn flicked the ball onto Joe Wilson. He controlled the ball and then played in Dan Wildman twenty yards from goal in a central position. The defender committed himself allowing Dan to push the ball past him before unleashing a fierce effort that hit the roof of the net with the 'keeper well beaten to double the lead after ten minutes.

Wave after wave of pressure was beginning to tell on the Uttoxeter defence as Ryan Benfield drove in the fifth Rolleston corner of the opening thirteen minutes to the near post. Lewis McQuillan flicked on the ball for Dan Featherstone who guided it in to the net from close range with his head.

From the restart Rolleston won the ball and pressed forward. Dan Featherstone swept the ball out wide left to Mark Worth who skinned his marker and then played in Dan Wildman who laid the ball to Lewis McQuillan as the defender closed him down. Lewis looked up from his position on the edge of the box and then rifled the ball into the roof of the net to make it four.

Uttoxeter were looking deflated as they restarted the game and when the terrier Ryan Benfield won the ball he played it between the two central defenders for Joe Wilson to latch onto. He advanced to the eighteen-yard area before striking the ball into the net.

The Rolleston 'keeper, Ben Whitehouse, had very little to do but when he was called upon collected the ball comfortably and cleared well.

Simon Billings slotted into the centre-half position very well, winning the ball time and again before developing the play through the midfield. Jordan Taylor, Dominic Hickman, Liam Goode and Lewis Wright closed down the play whenever called upon and they all looked confident advancing with the ball.

Half-time 0 - 5.

Uttoxeter started the game but lost the ball immediately on their right wing to Liam Goode who played it to Mark Worth. He advanced and then released the ball to Dan Wildman. He cut in onto his right foot and drilled the ball towards goal that deceived everyone before ending up in the net.

The manager was making multiple changes to get all the squad onto the pitch but this upset the rhythm of the Reds whose passing game disappeared and the game became scrappy.

The Reds were still making chances with JJ Harris, Henry Parker and Joe Wilson all going close but to no avail.

After fifty minutes the ball was out on the Rolleston left wing. Some smart interplay between Liam Goode, Reece Atton, Joe Wilson and culminating in a fine cross from Lewis McQuillan saw JJ Harris arrive at the back post to head the ball against the bar.

Matt Morgan had little to do in the Reds goal other than dive bravely at the feet of the advancing Uttoxeter striker and developed the ball well.

The final goal of the game came after fifty-five minutes. Lewis McQuillan crossed the ball for JJ Harris to head the ball home from eight yards.

The manager continued to ring the changes and Rolleston continued to create chances but the game petered out to a flat finish. However, this was a game that had to be won well by the Reds and they remain top of the table with an unbeaten run of thirteen games.

Scorers:

• Dan Featherstone - 1
• JJ Harris - 1
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Dan Wildman - 2
• Joe Wilson - 2

24th January 2010

Rocester FC 2 - 2 Rolleston Red

The Reds were on their travels again with a short trip to Uttoxeter for an early kick-off against Rocester on a cold and damp morning. Both teams were pleased the game was going ahead after so many weeks of cancellations over the festive period.

Rolleston pressed from the very start and should have opened the scoring after only forty seconds when JJ Harris arrived at the far post after a Dan Wildman cross but the ball went agonisingly wide.

The Reds midfield dominated in the opening fifteen minutes on the narrow boggy pitch with Ryan Benfield and Dan Featherstone taking full control.

When Dominic Hickman won the ball after seven minutes in a central defensive position, he played the ball along the ground to JJ Harris who took a quick touch before passing the ball between the two defenders for Dan Wildman to run onto. He advanced with the ball to the edge of the area before unleashing a powerful low drive that hit the back of the net.

The captain Lee Johnson marshalled the attacking Rocester players well with Lewis Wright and Simon Billings also up to the challenge. When Simon advanced after winning the ball he struck it sweetly from forty yards with the ball bouncing in front of the Rocester 'keeper before skimming the bar.

Rolleston doubled their lead after fifteen minutes when Ryan Benfield played the ball through to Dan Wildman who raced towards goal before drilling a fine effort low and hard past the stranded 'keeper from twenty yards.

Mark Worth was on song in the opening thirty minutes and could have scored on twenty-two minutes after taking on three players before shooting but a deflection ensured the ball flew out for a corner.

The league leaders should have increased their goal tally on numerous occasions in the remaining minutes of the first half with efforts from JJ Harris, Dan Wildman, Lewis McQuillan, Ryan Benfield and Jordan Taylor but all these chances went begging.

Half-time 0 - 2.

Rocester were playing down the slope in the second half and from the kick-off played the ball long and this was the way they played when they were given the chance.

The manager continued to make changes as some of the Rolleston players seemed to run out of energy only ten minutes in to the second half.

Ben Whitehouse pulled off a number of good saves from midfield as Rocester pressed with the Rolleston midfield tiring. Ben cleared the ball out wide intelligently which enabled the wing players to advance into dangerous positions.

When the ball was not cleared properly on the Rocester right wing, it bounced out for a corner with the movement from the Rocester players causing some confusion in the Reolleston defence before the striker hit a fine effort into the roof of the net to cut the deficit. This gave Rocester confidence to push forward in the remaining minutes.

Rolleston should have wrapped the game up in the following minutes with no fewer then six quality chances but to no avail.

In the left-back position, Reece Atton battled against the tricky winger, clearing the ball well along the line to Lewis McQuillan and Mark Worth.

Lewis Wright linked well with Mark Worth and Jordan Taylor down the right wing but the 'keeper rose to the challenge and cleared the ball.

Tom Dunne raced at goal after skinning his marker but the cross was not met by any of the advancing players.

The game became very scrappy in the final ten minutes with the Rocester central defender hoofing the ball clear in all directions at every opportunity. Rolleston tried to play the ball around but the packed Rocester midfield and the worsening pitch made it very difficult to achieve.

A freak equaliser arrived with five minutes remaining on the clock when the ball ended up in the back of the net from a weak midfield shot. The Rocester players and spectators were elated but even though Rolleston pressed and applied pressure until the final whistle they could not score a winning goal.

This was a very disappointing result for the Reds who clearly suffered from the long break since the last game. They produced enough chances to win the game easily. However, a combination of poor finishing, low energy levels and a very boggy pitch ensured that Rocester took a point.

Scorer:

• Dan Wildman - 2

13th December 2009

Rolleston Red 3 - 3 Marlborough Rovers

The frost settled overnight on the Craythorne pitch but after an early inspection the positive decision to play the game was given.

This was a top of the table clash with last years Champions the visitors for the 10.30 kick-off.

Rolleston started brightly, attacking from the first whistle and when the ball was played out wide to JJ Harris he drilled a low cross into the Marlborough box that was only half cleared to Ryan Benfield on the edge of the box. He took a touch before driving the ball into the net after two minutes.

This early goal seemed to unsettle the Champions with Rolleston pressing forward at every opportunity. Dan Wildman was being marshalled by two defenders whenever he received the ball and Joe Wilson was also closed down quickly when he had the ball at his feet.

Every time the Reds pushed forward they looked dangerous and should have increased their lead but for some frantic defensive play by Marlborough.

The visitors found it difficult to play their way out of trouble with Ryan Benfield, Dan Featherstone and JJ Harris closing down their opposing player whenever the need arose.

The game ebbed and flowed until the twenty-minute mark when Marlborough pulled a goal back when the ball fell to the midfield player in a central position on the edge of the box. He calmly chipped the ball over the 'keeper to equalise.

This galvanised Rolleston who attacked from the restart and the pressure finally reaped rewards after twenty-five minutes when the impressive Lee Johnson won the ball in defence before delivering a fine pass out wide to JJ Harris. He skinned his marker before crossing the ball to the near post that was, again, only half cleared and Ryan Benfield was on hand to play the ball along the ground to Joe Wilson who slotted home low to the stranded 'keepers left to retake the lead.

Marlborough tried to advance but where thwarted by the central defensive pair of Lee Johnson and Dom Hickman. The fullbacks, Liam Goode and Lewis Wright, were also impressing the watching crowd when they closed down the advancing wingers.

With only one minute to the break Marlborough equalised for the second time. This was a cruel blow for the Reds who deserved to go into the break with a lead.

Half-time 2 - 2.

The excitement levels began to rise again shortly after the second half began with this very exciting game flowing from end-to-end but it was Marlborough who took the lead for the first time when they won an unnecessary free-kick twenty-two yards from goal. The player struck the ball cleanly and it sailed into the roof of the net.

The manager was rotating the squad to give players a rest and when Tom Dunne entered the fray, he skinned his marker out on the right wing and floated in a fine cross that Dan Wildman rose to head towards goal before it was partially cleared to Dan Featherstone whose shot had power but needed more accuracy.

More changes saw Matt Morgan take a turn in goal and Simon Billings slotting into the right-back position. It was Simon who was brought into the game immediately to stop the forward from advancing before laying the ball off to Ryan Benfield who developed the play to Dan Wildman. He advanced on goal before playing in Joe Wilson who fired a shot on goal that that the 'keeper took comfortably.

It was all Rolleston for the next ten minutes with Marlborough dropping deeper and deeper as the minutes ticked away but the Reds could not convert the pressure into goals.

When the ball was cleared quickly by the visiting 'keeper, the ball fell to the Marlborough left-winger who struck the ball with venom but Matt Morgan pulled off a fantastic double save to deny the striker. This was truly a stunning double save!

From his quick clearance the ball was played to Mark Worth who quickly played in Dan Wildman twenty-five yards from goal in a central position. He controlled the ball before unleashing an exocet of a strike that hit the underside of the bar before hitting the back of the net to equalise with five minutes remaining.

Rolleston pressed from the restart, with Ryan Benfield winning the ball. He played the ball to JJ Harris on the left-wing, who in turn released the ball to Joe Wilson eighteen yards from goal. As the 'keeper advanced Joe drilled the ball across his body with the crowd thinking the ball was heading into the net but it hit the far post before rebounding out to the advancing Mark Worth. He tried to slot the ball home but the 'keeper had other ideas and saved well.

When the impressive referee blew for full time, the crowd gave a huge cheer as they were privileged to see such an exciting end-to-end top of the table clash and it definitely warmed them up on such a clear, cold and wintry morning.

This was undoubtedly the best game of the Reds season so far with Marlborough the happier to head home to Leicestershire with a point. Rolleston remain top of the division and are now ten games unbeaten - their best ever run and long may it continue.

Scorers:

• Ryan Benfield -1
• Dan Wildman -1
• Joe Wilson - 1

06th December 2009

Barton Rovers 1 - 2 Rolleston Red

This was the only game to survive the weather, with a last minute venue change thrown in on a very wet, windy and cold Sunday afternoon as the Reds headed for Walton-on-Trent.

Lee Johnson won the toss and decided to kick with the wind. Rolleston made a very bright start knowing that a win would take them to the top of the league for the first time.

Lewis Wright played the ball along the line from the right back position to Jordan Taylor - playing against his former club for the first time. He delivered a fine pass to Dan Wildman who took on his marker before turning inside and as the 'keeper advanced he slotted home low to the 'keepers right to open the scoring after only two minutes.

The Reds took full advantage of the wind with Ben Whitehouse having little to do for the first ten minutes of the game. When Ryan Benfield won the ball out on the right after thirteen minutes he drilled a fine low pass to Dan Wildman who skinned his marker before delivering a pass to the back post where Lewis McQuillan connected well but the ball hit the underside of the bar before being cleared.

Rolleston continued to press and had three gilt-edged opportunities to increase their lead with Joe Wilson, Dan Wildman and Lewis McQuillan all going close but the Barton 'keeper was up to the challenge with fine saves from all three efforts.

The Reds were swarming all over Barton but the home team were saved from a pounding by good fortune and excellent goalkeeping.

When Barton tried to press forward it was the captain Lee Johnson who led by example. Time and again he showed his class in reading the game to nip in front of the Barton striker before developing the play.

On the half hour Liam Goode played a great defence splitting pass through to Dan Wildman who was through one-on-one with the 'keeper and as he tried to flick the ball into the net, the 'keeper made another excellent save.

The central midfield of Dan Featherstone and Ryan Benfield were dominating and developing the play each time they won the ball.

Lewis Wright stuck to his difficult task of marshalling the tricky left winger with the assistance of Lewis McQuillan and, when he was replaced, the busy JJ Harris who in turn made the Barton left-back work extremely hard as he advanced with the ball.

As the half-time whistle approached, the manager knew that if the score stayed at only one - nil then the second half would be difficult especially playing against the increasing wind and cold.

Rolleston pressed once more but again the 'keeper was on song to deny another goal opportunity.

Half-time 0 - 1.

The Reds were up for the difficult second half challenge directly from the kick-off, with Reece Atton and Dan Featherstone closing down the advancing Barton midfield.

The one player who was head and shoulders above the rest was the captain Lee Johnson who was brave when winning the ball with his head and using his awareness as he developed the play when he won the ball time and again from the Barton striker.

Dominic Hickman was also impressing with his reading of the game and no nonsense clearances under pressure.

Barton started to use the wind advantage with long clearances from the 'keeper but Ben Whitehouse was aware of the potential danger to scoop up the ball and use it well when clearing.

JJ Harris won the ball with a great tackle in the heart of midfield before laying it to Ryan Benfield who rolled the ball between two defenders for Dan Wildman to run onto. He shrugged off his marker before unleashing a shot from eighteen yards that shook the bar.

Rolleston were on top for the next fifteen minutes and were rewarded with a second goal after some industrious play from Dan Featherstone. After winning the ball he played it back to Lee Johnson who delivered a pass for Dan Wildman to run onto and this time he made no mistake to hit home his second goal of the game with a low left-footed drive after fifty minutes.

The home team tried to press but Rolleston stood strong. Lee Johnson and Dominic Hickman were immense and Liam Goode pressed forward with intelligence whenever he received the ball in the left-back position.

Henry Parker was introduced into the fray and held the ball up well when he received it from the midfield before laying it off to the advancing Rolleston players.

The one time the Barton strike force broke through resulted in an excellent save from Matt Morgan that any premier league 'keeper would have been proud of after the striker hit a ferocious drive from twenty yards.

With only four minutes remaining Barton won a penalty after a handball when the ball was swung in from a disputed corner. Matt Morgan got his hand to the ball but it was a well-taken penalty. This was a blow for Rolleston who deserved a clean sheet after their admirable work ethic up to this point.

Barton had the bit between their teeth in the remaining minutes but the visitors were up to the challenge and showed tremendous character to suppress the threat.

On the final whistle the players knew this was a fine win and should enjoy the fact that the win takes them to the top of the first division.

There were many fine performances throughout the squad today but the one player who deserves special praise is Lee Johnson who led by example, showing skill, bravery and intelligence for the full seventy minutes.

Well done to the Reds for showing great character, creating endless chances and especially for rising to the top of the chasing pack for the first time.

Scorer:

• Dan Wildman - 2

29th November 2009

CUP: Rolleston Red 14 - 3 Repton Casuals White

The pitch was holding up well at eight o'clock this morning as the manager checked the goalmouths after the torrential rain throughout the previous night.

The Cup competition is a big bonus for all the teams still involved as the visitors arrived early for this quarter-final clash.

Rolleston started brightly and opened the scoring after only two minutes when Dominic Hickman spotted the run of Dan Wildman through the middle. He ran onto the quality pass and rifled home a low drive.

The Reds pressed at every opportunity, applying immense pressure on the Repton defence but when the Whites won a free-kick on the edge of the area, the Repton player struck the ball cleanly with matt Morgan beaten to equalise after ten minutes.

From the restart Rolleston drove forward with Tom Dunne playing the ball intelligently to Dan Wildman out on the left. He in turn laid the ball to the advancing Ryan Benfield whose strike flew just wide of the far post.

Ryan Benfield was impressing as he dominated the central midfield position and when he picked the ball up thirty yards from goal advanced before playing it out wide left for Mark Worth. After taking on his marker, he crossed the ball where Dan Wildman reacted first to score from eighteen yards.

The Reds won the ball from the restart with Dan Featherstone playing in Henry Parker who took a touch before drilling the ball low and to the right of the Repton 'keeper to increase the lead on eighteen minutes.

The impressive captain Lee Johnson marshalled the attacking force of the Whites superbly and won the ball yet again before developing the play to Tom Dunne on the right wing. He delivered a fine cross for Dan Wildman who drilled the ball into the net for his hat-trick.

The visitors continued to play football and scored a fine goal after twenty-five minutes as the midfield failed to shut down the advancing midfield player to make the score 4 -2.
The goal woke up the Reds who advanced from the restart with Dan Featherstone drilling the ball out to JJ Harris on the left wing. He delivered a great cross to Dan Wildman who controlled the ball before driving home his fourth of the game to make it five.

Rolleston wasted a number of chances to increase their score before the Whites pulled a goal back with a fine effort that shook the net from twenty-five yards.

Simon Billings played the ball from the right-back position along the line to the ubiquitous Ryan Benfield who looked up and delivered a great pass to the advancing Dan Featherstone. He took a touch before unleashing a powerful shot that hit the post and Joe Wilson was on hand to slot home to make it 6 - 3.

Half- time 6 - 3.

The manager was not happy with the three goals conceded in the first half so the players knew exactly what he required as the Reds kicked off the second half.

Out on the right wing the ball was passed by Reece Atton to Lewis McQuillan who delivered a quick low cross that deceived everyone before hitting the back of the net to make it seven after thirty-eight minutes.

The fitness levels of the Reds started to show on the energy sapping heavy pitch as they continued to develop the play from the back as every opportunity.

Liam Goode won a number of headers in the opening minutes of the second half and it was from one of these headers that he played in Joe Wilson who ran at goal before rounding the advancing 'keeper to slot home the eighth Rolleston goal of the game.

Only a minute later the score was increased further when Dominic Hickman won the ball and played it along the ground to Ryan Benfield. He drilled the ball between two defenders for Dan Wildman to run on to and he made no mistake to slot home the ninth goal of the game after forty-eight minutes.

Rolleston were becoming stronger as the game progressed and after fifty-two minutes Joe Wilson hit home a rocket of a goal for his hat-trick following some fine play by Tom Dunne on the right wing.

Reece Atton played a great pass down the right wing for Lewis McQuillan who was fouled as he tried to advance on goal. Joe Wilson placed the ball before sweetly striking a wonderful effort that beat the 'keeper for pace as it shook the net to make it eleven for the Reds and four goals for Joe.

The Whites deserve a lot of credit for continuing to play their way out of trouble but Liam Goode had other ideas as he advanced down the left wing before laying the ball to Ryan Benfield who shot low to the 'keepers left. The shot had a lot of venom and the 'keeper fumbled the ball to JJ Harris who anticipated the chance to side foot home his first goal of the game.

The next goal had a similar tone as the 'keeper failed to collect another Ryan Benfield shot and JJ was on hand yet again to hit home after sixty minutes.

The replacement Rolleston 'keeper, Ben Whitehouse, had very little to do but his dead ball kicks were impressive and when one of these kicks fell to Ryan Benfield in the centre of the park, he played a one-two with Joe Wilson before delivering a fine cross where JJ Harris was once again sniffing to head home his hat-trick and Rolleston's fourteenth and final goal of this cup game.

The Reds defence were supreme today, especially in the second half, with the midfield dominant throughout and the strikers clinical in front of goal as the Reds go marching on to the semi-final after a fine display. This was a great squad effort with the manager making numerous changes to give all the squad a chance to impress.

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman - 5
• Joe Wilson - 4
• JJ Harris - 3
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Henry Parker - 1

22nd November 2009

Rolleston Red 12 - 0 Rolleston Silver

The first Rolleston derby of the season arrived on a very wet, cold and dreadful Sunday November morning as the teams prepared for the game.

The Reds opened the scoring after three minutes of sustained pressure when JJ Harris on the left wing played the ball to Ryan Benfield on the edge of the area. His low powerful drive was too much for the 'keeper as it hit the back of the net.

The Silver team battled well and tried to play some link-up football but the Reds were up to the challenge; the Reds defence cutting out any potential danger and then playing the ball through midfield.

The Reds were awarded a free-kick after fourteen minutes on the edge of the area. Mark Worth placed the ball before striking a powerful shot that the 'keeper was well positioned to take but the ball went through his wet hands and ended up in the net to double the lead.

Both teams were up for this derby encounter and in the remaining minutes of the half it was the Silver's 'keeper who was by far the busier - Jake Fearn thwarted efforts from Joe Wilson, Mark Worth, Dan Wildman and JJ Harris. Other chances went begging due to poor finishing as the Reds ploughed through the Silver defence time and again.

Rolleston Red were supreme in defence with Liam Goode and Lewis Wright developing the play down the wings at every opportunity. Jordan Taylor ran at his defender every time he had the ball and was well supported by both Mark Worth and Ryan Benfield. Lee Johnson and Dominic Hickman both looked composed in the heart of defence and Matt Morgan had very little to do but his concentration levels remained high throughout the first period.

Half-time 2 - 0.

The sun showed itself fleetingly as the second period got under way but soon disappeared as the heavens opened and the temperature dropped.

Rolleston Red applied more pressure to the Silver defence and from a goal-kick Dan Wildman reacted first to control the ball before drilling it into the net from eighteen yards after forty minutes.

Mark Worth ran at the defence on forty-four minutes before unleashing a rocket that the 'keeper saved well.

Only a minute later Dan Wildman received the ball twenty yards from goal after some fine interplay between Dan Featherstone and Ryan Benfield. He took a touch and then rifled the ball hard and low into the back of the net to make it four.

The Reds won the ball from the restart and pressed once more. The Silver defence stood strong and tried to play the ball out of defence but the midfield of Dan Featherstone, Lewis McQuillan, Ryan Benfield and Jordan Taylor were now winning the ball time and again before pressing forward.

It was from a fine passage of play that Mark Worth received the ball before taking on three Silver defenders. The movement of his teammates opened a gap in the heart of the Silver defence that he exploited before lobbing the 'keeper from sixteen yards.

When the Reds won the ball from the restart it was Liam Goode who raced with the ball from the left-back position before cutting inside and laying the ball to Dan Wildman. He took on his marker and drove the ball towards goal were it was intercepted before ending up in the back of the net to make it six without reply.

The Silver team pressed from the restart but when the attack broke down, the quick thinking Matt Morgan delivered a fine pass to Lewis McQuillan out on the left wing. He advanced before cutting inside onto his right foot and striking the ball into the bottom corner to increase the lead even further.

The Reds manager continued to ring the changes with Simon Billings slotting into the right-back position before winning the ball from a potentially dangerous attack. He looked up and played the ball down the wing to Jordan Taylor who skinned the defender and crossed a low drive that the 'keeper could only parry. JJ Harris reacted quickest, sniffing out the chance to slot home.

Liam Goode's confidence was growing by the minute and after receiving the ball from the replacement 'keeper Ben Whitehouse, pressed forward taking on two defenders. The goal opened up in front of him as he struck a fine effort that stung the 'keepers hands before falling to Jordan Taylor who knocked home a simple goal.

The Reds continued to play football and this reaped more rewards when Henry Parker received the ball from Simon Billings. Henry spun round before playing the ball out to Joe Wilson on the left edge of the area. Joe then unleashed a stinging shot that the 'keeper could do little about to score a well-deserved goal.

The Silver team continued to try and play but time and again their efforts came to little. Lewis Wright winning the ball this time in the right-back position before driving forward and playing a great pass to Jordan Taylor. He surged forward taking on two defenders before lobbing the advancing 'keeper.

The final goal arrived in the final minute of the game when Dan Wildman developed the ball from the left-back position and then played it infield to the advancing Mark Worth. He spotted the run of Joe Wilson who calmly lifted the ball over the 'keeper to score his second of the game.

The bragging rights go to the Reds this time around as the majority of both teams attend De Ferrers College. But the Silver squad should take heart, especially from their first half display when they competed across the park but it was the squad strength of Rolleston Red that proved too strong.

Scorers

• Dan Wildman - 3
• Jordan Taylor - 2
• Joe Wilson - 2
• Mark Worth - 2
• Ryan Benfield - 1
• JJ Harris - 1
• Lewis McQuillan - 1

08th November 2009

Rolleston Red 14 - 0 Repton Casuals White

The one-minute silence was observed by one and all before today's early kick-off as the Red's welcomed Repton White who were promoted at the end of last season.

Rolleston were in control from the start as they swooped forward at every opportunity. Joe Wilson opened the scoring after only two minutes from eighteen yards with a fine effort that flew in to the back of the net.

With the captain missing today due to illness, Simon Billings took his chance to start in the heart of defence and had the measure of the Repton attacker from their first attack through to the end of the game. Dom Hickman, Lewis Wright and Liam Goode were supreme in the opening half as they worked hard to snuff out any threat.

From a Repton goal-kick, Dan Featherstone won the header and it was Dan Wildman who reacted first to hit home with his left foot after three minutes.

Rolleston were dominant across the pitch and when Lewis Wright played the ball along the line in the right-back position, the ball fell to JJ Harris who crossed from out wide with the ball deceiving everyone, ending up in the back of the net to make it three.

Repton tried pressing from the restart but when Simon Billings won the ball in the centre half position, he played a fine pass to Joe Wilson to run onto and he made no mistake as he slotted home past the stranded 'keeper.

Ryan Benfield looked mature in the centre of midfield - rising to the challenge of wearing the captain's armband - and after he won yet another tackle played the ball to Dan Wildman on the edge of the Repton area. He looked up before unleashing a rocket that hit the roof of the net to increase the score to five without reply.

When the Repton 'keeper cleared the ball from his hands it was Liam Goode who won the header and this was the pattern throughout the game as he won more than ten headers up until the final whistle.

The midfield duo of Dan Featherstone and Ryan Benfield were in total control of the game and it was Ryan who flicked on the ball for Dan Wildman to run onto after eighteen minutes to slot home his hat-trick.

Dom Hickman won the ball after twenty-one minutes before playing it out wide left were Dan Wildman chased after it as the 'keeper advanced. He won the ball before rounding the 'keeper. The defender was there to cut out the chance but Dan skinned him before driving home his fourth goal of the game.

Once again Ryan Benfield won the ball before spreading it out wide to Tom Dunne who put in a great cross for Joe Wilson to hit home for his hat-trick.

Ben Whitehouse had little to do during the game but when he did receive the ball he used it well and his kicking was supreme.

The manager made a few changes as half-time approached and this reaped the reward of another goal as Reece Atton played the ball down the left for Mark Worth. His shot could only be parried to the advancing Dan Wildman who rolled the ball into the net.

After Rolleston won their fifth corner of the game, Mark Worth drove the ball in where Ryan Benfield caused mayhem in the Repton area before the ball fell to Dan Featherstone who back heeled the ball into the net from less than a yard out. His resulting euphoria - courtesy of Soccer AM and the 'ten pound goal celebration' in honour of the new world heavyweight boxing champion, David Haye - ended in injury and he had to be rested shortly after.

Half-time 10 - 0.

The sun emerged from behind the clouds as Repton kicked off the second half. As they advanced it was the impressive Simon Billings who won the ball and played a fine pass to Tom Dunne who's pace undone the defender. He then rounded the 'keeper to slot home.

The new recruit Jordan Taylor played the ball from the right-back position to Lewis McQuillan who passed the ball between two defenders twenty-five yards from goal. Dan Wildman advanced to meet the pass before racing past his defender to strike the ball home low and to the right of the 'keepers outstretched hand.

More changes for Rolleston seemed to upset their rhythm as Repton advanced, playing the ball round. Jordan Taylor's debut was very impressive as he moved into the right-midfield position, playing the ball simply to the forwards.

The game became disjointed for the first time but it was the Rolleston stand-in skipper who led by example as he advanced down the left wing. The gambling Dan Wildman, who won't score an easier goal all season, met his low left foot cross.

Repton continued to try and play the ball around but the Reds were too strong across the park.

The final goal arrived in the last minute of the game when Jordan Taylor advanced down the right wing before delivering a great pass to Dan Wildman. He shook of the unwanted advances of his marker before striking the ball from fifteen yards into the roof of the net.

The manager was very pleased with the goals scored but equally pleased with a clean sheet. Simon Billings deputised extremely well for the missing captain, Dominic Hickman communicated well with his defenders, Ben Whitehouse used the ball intelligently, Liam Goode must have a headache due to all the headers he won and both Lewis Wright and Jordan Taylor were superb when playing right-back.

The Repton players deserve praise for playing the ball around but Rolleston were too strong and committed throughout the seventy minutes. There has never been more competition for places and this is now being realised by the players as they compete for their place each week.

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman - 7
• Joe Wilson - 3
• JJ Harris - 2
• Tom Dunne - 1
• Dan Featherstone -1

25th October 2009

CUP: Rolleston Red 8 - 4 Whittington FC Lions

The clocks retreated one hour as autumn approaches but it was more like a winters day with the wind howling down the length of the pitch as the two teams readied themselves for this second round cup tie.

Lee Johnson won the toss and decided to play with the wind in the first half as Rolleston took control of the game in the opening minutes, even though the Reds were low on numbers due to illness and other commitments.

After five minutes Rolleston won a throw on the left adjacent to the eighteen-yard line. Liam Goode took a quick throw that Joe Wilson flicked on to Dan Wildman who took a touch before striking the ball into the roof of the net to open the scoring.

The game ebbed and flowed with Rolleston still having the upper hand as the wind was making it very difficult for the players to settle and play the ball around.

The manager made an inspired substitution on twenty-seven minutes as he introduced JJ Harris down the right. He anticipated the flick on by Lewis McQuillan from a Dan Wildman throw and headed home to double the lead with his first touch.

The midfield battle was developing in the Reds favour as Dan Featherstone drilled a fine effort from thirty yards that flew over the bar.

From the resulting goal kick, Reece Atton - who was playing his first game of the season - won the header that landed between the two central defenders. Dan Wildman was onto it like a flash, taking a touch before drilling a great shot into the bottom left-hand corner to make it three.

Rolleston continued to work hard and when Dan Wildman linked with Reece Atton after thirty-four minutes the ball fell to JJ Harris on the edge of the box and he fired a rocket into the top corner for his second of the game.

The Reds defence were comfortable throughout the first half with Lee Johnson supreme in central defence along with Lewis Wright who battled and played the balls that he won along the ground to help develop the play, with Liam Goode playing a similar role on the left.

Half-time 4 - 0.

Whittington made the most of the wind at the start of the second half when they pulled back two quick goals from distance making the most of the severe wind conditions.

Rolleston tried playing the ball along the floor as requested by their manager during the half-time break but as soon as they lost the ball the Lions pounced and shot at every opportunity.

Whittington clawed a third goal back after forty-nine minutes, again from distance, when the midfield could have closed down the play.

Rolleston rallied and scored a fifth goal when JJ Harris won the ball before playing in Reece Atton. His shot from eighteen yards flew in to the top left-hand corner to make it 5 - 3.

A change of 'keeper meant Matt Morgan taking a turn between the sticks, with Ben Whitehouse having had an accomplished fifty minutes in goal, but his first touch was to retrieve the ball from the net after the Lions midfield player shot from forty yards to score.

The Rolleston fitness levels began to show as Joe Wilson picked the ball up from a Mark Worth pass after Dom Hickman won the ball in defence. He unleashed a fine effort that was destined for the top corner but for a superb save from the Lions 'keeper.

The Reds won a corner that was delivered to the front post. The ball was only half cleared to Dan Featherstone who was patrolling the eighteen-yard area. He controlled the ball and drilled a fantastic shot that flew into the back of the net.

More fine play from the Reds when Reece Atton played the ball to Tom Dunne on the wing. He took on his marker before passing the ball to Dan Wildman whose instant shot could only be parried by the 'keeper with Joe Wilson reacting first to score Rolleston's seventh of the game.

The Lions 'keeper was now busier than ever pulling off a number of saves that kept the score down. With only a couple of minutes remaining another Rolleston corner was delivered into the box where Tom Dunne reacted first to head home the final goal of the game.

The Reds go marching on to the next round of the cup but this game was spoilt by the fierce wind. Neither team really coped well with the conditions. I am sure we will see the Lions in the top division next season.

Scorers

• JJ Harris - 2
• Dan Wildman - 2
• Reece Atton - 1
• Tom Dunne - 1
• Dan Featherstone - 1
• Joe Wilson -1

18th October 2009

Heather Junior Ravens 5 - 6 Rolleston Red

The Reds headed into 'the heart of rural England' for the beautiful game in the quaint village of Heather in Leicestershire. This was a fine autumnal afternoon for football as the teams lined up for the two o'clock kick-off.

Rolleston's first attempt on goal came after two minutes when Dan Featherstone struck a fine effort that flew just wide. It was Rolleston who took the game to their hosts, being rewarded on nine minutes when the ubiquitous Dan Featherstone won the ball in midfield before laying it off to Dan Wildman. He took a touch before playing it to Joe Wilson whose low drive beat the 'keeper to his left.

From the restart Rolleston pressed once more, winning the ball this time was Ryan Benfield. He drilled the ball out wide to JJ Harris who skinned his marker before delivering a superb cross to the near post where Joe Wilson was waiting but his shot was well saved by the 'keeper.

It was all Rolleston now as they pressed at every opportunity and from a Dan Wildman throw the ball was met by Dan Featherstone who headed home to double the lead at the near post after twelve minutes.

On seventeen minutes the Reds increased their lead to three when Ryan Benfield won the ball in the heart of midfield before passing to Joe Wilson twenty-five yards from goal on the left. He cut inside before unleashing a pile driver that was still rising as it flew past the stranded 'keeper to hit the back of the net.

The three goal lead was truly a team effort as the Rolleston defence snuffed out any danger from the lively Heather attack.

Lewis McQuillan was playing out of his skin in the left midfield position and after some industrious work played the ball to Joe Wilson down the wing. He crossed the ball to the far post where JJ Harris was waiting but his effort was blocked by the defender.

Up to this point in the game the accomplished Rolleston defence of Simon Billings, Lee Johnson, Dom Hickman and Liam Goode were coping admirably with their tricky front runners but on twenty-two minutes the ball was not cleared properly for the first time and this allowed the left-winger to sneak in and drive home a goal that should never have been allowed to happen. This galvanised Heather and only three minutes later they clawed back another goal from a great effort twenty-five yards from goal that Ben Whitehouse could do little about.

Rolleston pressed from the restart, playing some fine football but when the play broke down in midfield the ball was played between the two Rolleston central defenders for the quick striker to run onto and he made no mistake to draw the score level.

Dan Featherstone, Ryan Benfield and Lewis McQuillan were all leading by example and from their link up play Rolleston should have scored but for some fine goalkeeping.

Half-time 3 - 3.

Rolleston started the second half well but found themselves behind for the first time in the game after the ball was crossed form the right with the striker slotting home.

Rolleston drove forward once more winning a corner. Mark Worth - who was nursing an injury - drove the ball in but it was only half cleared to Lewis McQuillan fifteen yards out. He controlled the ball before striking a vicious blow into the top corner to equalise after forty-five minutes. This was a well deserved goal for Lewis who was having his best game of the season.

Lee Johnson and Dominic Hickman were communicating well in the second half with Lee winning numerous headers and Dom sweeping up when required. Liam Goode also got in on the act when he bravely got his head to the ball to clear the developing danger.

When Tom Dunne received the ball form Dan Featherstone out on the right wing, he raced at his marker before putting in a low cross that should have been converted but was cleared.

A change in goal saw Matt Morgan enter the fray and he saved a fine effort from distance before clearing the ball out wide to JJ Harris. The play was developed well as Joe Wilson took a shot on goal only for the ball to clearly hit the defenders arm in the area as the referee blew for a penalty. Ryan Benfield stepped up and confidently planted the ball to the 'keeper's right to make it 4 - 5, whilst his Mum was looking very anxious on the sidelines.

Only two minutes later Heather equalised from a strike on the edge on the eighteen yard box that should have been closed down.

This was beyond doubt a rollercoaster game with the excitement levels rising by the minute.

With only four minutes remaining Rolleston pressed once more and the move that sealed the game involved five Rolleston players. Lewis Wright won the ball in the right-back position before playing it up the line to Mark Worth. He cut inside on the half way line before laying the ball to Ryan Benfield. He looked up and played a great pass to JJ Harris who took a quick touch before rolling the ball between the two central defenders for Dan Wildman to run on to. He shrugged off his marker and advanced on goal from the eighteen yard box and with the 'keeper advancing drove the ball low to the left. As the ball hit the back of the net the cheers from both players and supporters alike was immense, as they knew that the eleventh goal of this scintillating game would be the last. The Rolleston captain, Lee Johnson, ran the length of the field to congratulate the scorer as he was mobbed by his team mates!

A special mention for Dan Featherstone, Lewis McQuillan and Ryan Benfield for their efforts today. Whatever their parents fed them before the game needs to be bottled and passed around the rest of the squad as they showed true grit, character and skill throughout the game.

This was a fantastic game to watch with both teams giving their all. Rolleston should have been out of sight after taking a three goal lead but full credit should go to Heather for pulling the game back before the Reds showed true character to finally put the game to bed.

Scorers:

• Joe Wilson - 2
• Ryan Benfield - 1
• Dan 'Spanner' Featherstone - 1
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Dan Wildman - 1

11th October 2009

Rolleston Red 15 - 0 Hatton Sports

A big thank you to the people who helped prepare the pitch for the first local derby of the season as Hatton Sports travelled the short distance to Craythorne for this early kick-off.

Rolleston pressed from the start applying pressure across the field and this reaped dividends after only three minutes when JJ Harris won the ball on the left wing before playing in Joe Wilson who chipped the 'keeper from the edge of the area.

The visitors found it difficult to string any passes together as the Reds were fired up for the game and on six minutes Dan Wildman picked the ball up, played a one-two with Joe Wilson before delivering a fine cross for Mark Worth to slot home from close range.

The Reds defence were supreme and in total control as the ball was played through to the midfield before being moved quickly to the front-runners. It was from this passage of play that JJ Harris played the ball between the two defenders on the left for Dan Wildman to run on to. He shrugged off the final defender before advancing, rounding the 'keeper and striking home to make it three - nil.

From the restart Rolleston won the ball and Dom Hickman spotted the advancing of Dan Wildman who ran at the 'keeper, lifted the ball over him from twelve yards out and slotted home with his left foot.

Dan Wildman's three minute hat-trick came when he was once again ran on to a fine through pass from Ryan Benfield before rounding the advancing 'keeper to score.

After thirteen minutes the score was increased further when Dan Featherstone laid the ball to Ryan Benfield in the heart of midfield. He unleashed a fine effort that the Hatton 'keeper could only parry and Dan Wildman was on hand to score his fourth of the game.

Ben Whitehouse in the Rolleston goal had very little to do but when he cleared the ball from his hands the ball was allowed to bounce by the Hatton defence. Dan Wildman was alert to the chance as he pinched the ball and advanced one-on-one with the 'keeper. He dropped his shoulder to commit the 'keeper before once again rounding him to increase his goal tally to five.
Hatton Sports huffed and puffed but were no match for the totally supreme Rolleston Reds. Simon Billings - playing left back from the start - won the ball from the advancing Hatton striker before laying it to Lee Johnson. He played the ball to JJ Harris who took on the right back before playing the ball laterally to Dan Featherstone who immediately saw the run of Mark Worth down the right wing. Mark skinned his marker and delivered a fine low, powerful cross that Joe Wilson wrapped his foot around to score his second of the game.

Simon Billings was winning every ball and closed down his player at every opportunity along with Dom Hickman, Lee Johnson and Lewis Wright in the heart of the Rolleston defence. This made it easier for the midfield to develop the play and after twenty-four minutes Ryan Benfield and Mark Worth put together a fine passage of play before Mark Worth delivered another fine cross that found Lewis Mc Quillan at the back post. He slotted home into the roof of the net.

The score reached double digits after thirty-two minutes when a Mark Worth corner was met at the near post by Henry Parker as he slipped the ball between the 'keeper and the near post.

JJ Harris scored a well-deserved goal after some very industrious work throughout the first half. Henry Parker received the ball at his feet before turning to play in JJ on the edge of the box. He advanced with the ball before shooting low with his left foot into the net.

Half-time 11 - 0.

Rolleston kicked off the second half after making a few changes. Tom Dunne received the ball from Lewis Wright and skinned his marker before cutting inside to drill the ball home.

After winning the ball from the restart, Rolleston pressed forward with Ryan Benfield playing the ball to Mark Worth. He took a touch before releasing a great effort that the 'keeper spilled in to the path of the advancing JJ Harris who lifted the ball into the net from close range.

A change of 'keeper for Rolleston saw Matt Morgan press for his place with Ben Whitehouse having a break having had a quiet but confident game - with his dead ball kicking and his distribution impressing the manager.
Rolleston won a free-kick thirty yards from goal that Ryan Benfield struck. The ball was heading for the bottom left-hand corner but the Hatton 'keeper pulled off another fine save.

The best goal of the game arrived after fifty-five minutes when a Rolleston corner was only half cleared to Simon Billings. He controlled the ball twenty-five yards form goal before striking a rocket of a shot that stung the hands of the 'keeper before hitting the back of the net. Simon deserved his goal after some great defending throughout the game.

The Reds fitness levels started to impress after an hour as they chased down every ball. Liam Goode played the ball to Henry Parker outside the box; his resulting shot flew towards the goal. The 'keeper saved but spilled the ball to the advancing JJ Harris who netted his well-deserved hat-trick.

The Reds played the game out with ease as the Hatton Sports players looked drained. When the referee - who had officiated the game very well - blew for full time the manager was elated with the result.

This was another fine squad effort from the Rolleston boys who have the bragging rights for the next week over their Hatton Sports friends in both John Port and de Ferrers!

Scorers:

• Daniel Wildman - 5
• Joshua Harris - 3
• Joe Wilson - 2
• Simon Billings - 1
• Mark Worth - 1
• Tom Dunne - 1
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Henry Parker - 1

04th October 2009

Repton Casuals Blue 5 - 6 Rolleston Red

A glorious afternoon to play the most popular game on the planet, with the sun shining in the heart of Derbyshire.

Rolleston started brightly but found themselves a goal down from a long ball over the top that caught the defence flat footed.

Within a minute the Reds scored their first goal of the game when a Dan Wildman throw was flicked on by Ryan Benfield for JJ Harris to run onto and he arrived at the near post ahead of his marker to slot home.

The game settled down with Rolleston playing some fine football and spreading the ball out wide at every opportunity.

On nine minutes Repton took the lead for the second time with a fine effort from eighteen yards that should have been closed down.

From the restart Rolleston pushed forward and pressurised the Repton defence into clearing the ball for a throw level with their eighteen-yard box. Dan Wildman picked out JJ Harris whose deft flick flew across the Repton goal where Lewis McQuillan was waiting to drive the ball home low and to the left of the stranded 'keeper.

Rolleston won the ball once more on thirteen minutes out wide right with JJ Harris rolling the ball to Lewis Wright. He drove the ball in for it to be half cleared where Joe Wilson controlled the ball before unleashing a rocket that could only be parried by the 'keeper and Joe Wilson was on hand to make it 2 - 3 to Rolleston.

Repton pushed on nineteen minutes and from a well-taken corner Ben Whitehouse was called upon to make a great save from a stinging shot that was heading for the top corner.

The Repton 'keeper cleared the ball long at every opportunity which caused Rolleston some problems as the midfield were being bypassed and the defence were allowing the ball to bounce. However, Simon Billings stepped up to the plate to win the ball bravely before passing it twenty yards for Joe Wilson to run on to. He intelligently played the ball between the two defenders for Dan Wildman to pounce on and once he was free of his marker he increased the lead with a low shot across the body of the advancing 'keeper.

The Rolleston central midfield of Ryan Benfield and Dan Featherstone - who was recovering from a virus - were competing admirably in the middle of the park and it was Dan Featherstone who won the ball once more before playing in Joe Wilson. He in turn played the ball inside to Mark Worth who ran at his marker before committing a second defender before striking the ball. Again the 'keeper could only parry this fine effort and Dan Wildman was in like a flash to pick up the pieces to slot home with his left foot to increase the lead even further.

Rolleston were playing with increasing confidence and when Ryan Benfield drove in a fine corner it was Dom Hickman whose powerful header flew just over the bar.
More chances went begging and Rolleston should have increased their lead further.

There was some fine interplay between Joe Wilson, Mark Worth, Dan Wildman and finally Tom Dunne whose shot sailed wide. The crowd showed their appreciation for that particular passage of play.

Half-time 2 - 5.

Rolleston were in the ascendancy from the kick-off with Dan Wildman hitting his second hat-trick of the season when Ryan Benfield played the ball down the left hand side. His low powerful effort across the goal beat the 'keeper to make the score 2 - 6.

The Rolleston manager was having to make many changes to give his squad a chance to impress but this seemed to upset the Rolleston tempo but he has to give the substitutes a chance to cement a place in this very competitive squad. There were changes in goal, across the defence and up front within a matter of minutes.

Repton scored a goal from out of the blue when the right midfield player struck a great effort from thirty yards that flew in to the net.

A mistake from the Reds defence resulted in another goal but the defence were not receiving any support from their midfield, as Repton had no choice but to push players up to try and salvage something from the game.

Lee Johnson cut out the developing danger at the back and played the ball to Simon Billings who in turn played a great pass to JJ Harris. He was through on goal but a lack of composure saw his shot fly wide.

The best move of the game arrived after twenty-six minutes of the second period when Joe Wilson linked with Dan Wildman. He played the ball inside to Ryan Benfield who quickly passed to Dan Featherstone. He took a touch and played the ball to the advancing Lewis McQuillan whose powerful shot flew wide of the upright.

With only two minutes remaining Repton won a needless penalty when the Rolleston player handled the ball. Matt Morgan could do very little as the ball was drilled down the middle.

The Reds saw the game out but the final score of 5 - 6 flattered Repton as a combination of missed opportunities by Rolleston and the need for the manager to give everybody in the squad a game upset the Rolleston rhythm. It begs the question…would you be a manager?

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman - 3
• Joshua Harris - 1
• Lewis McQuillan - 1
• Joe Wilson - 1

27th September 2009

Rolleston Red 7 - 0 Winshill Gold

Rolleston were almost up to full strength for the visit of Winshill Gold for this early kick-off.

After two minutes Rolleston won the first throw and this was flicked on by JJ Harris to Tom Dunne who got in front of his marker inside the six yard box but the resulting header flew up and over the bar.

The game became scrappy for the next ten minutes but once Rolleston settled they played some fine passing football. It was from this passage of play that the opening goal came when Dan Featherstone played the ball to Mark Worth twenty-five yards from goal. He controlled the ball before chipping it over the stranded 'keeper.

The Reds won the ball from the restart and pressed forward with Ryan Benfield passing a fine ball between the two central defenders for JJ Harris to run onto and he made no mistake from eighteen yards but the linesman once again raised his flag for offside.

It was all Rolleston for the remaining minutes of the first half with Mark Worth playing in Dan Wildman for a half chance, JJ Harris shooting wide and Ryan Benfield rifling a fine effort just over the bar. The pressure finally paid dividends when Joe Wilson was played through by Ryan Benfield. He ran at the 'keeper and slotted home to double the score.

Half-time 2 - 0.

Winshill started the second half brightly when the ball was played over the top of the Rolleston defence. Ben Whitehouse in goal rushed out but handled just outside the area. The resulting free-kick went wide.

On thirty-seven minutes Joe Wilson was played in by Dan Featherstone and slotted his second of the game.

The score was increased further only a minute later when Liam Goode won the ball in the left-back position before playing it through to Mark Worth who made a great run and drove the ball low and hard for his second of the game. The referee ignored the flag-happy linesman who needs to understand the difference between players who are interfering with play and those who are not.

The Reds defence were in full control of the game with Dom Hickman marshalling the back four with confidence.

Matt Morgan rolled the ball out to Liam Goode on the left who played a great pass down the line for Joe Wilson. He raced at goal before trying to lob the 'keeper but he was up to the challenge and saved well.

On forty-six minutes Lewis Wright played the ball through to Henry Parker. He battled well for the ball and dropped it to Joe Wilson who made no mistake for his hat-trick.

The manager continued to ring the changes with Simon Billings slotting in to the central defence and he was called upon immediately to clear the Winshill danger with a fine header.

Rolleston were spreading the ball around well with some great interplay between Lewis McQuillan and Tom Dunne resulting in a corner. Mark Worth drilled the ball to the far post were Joe Wilson rose above the defenders to head it just over.

The Reds midfield were now in total control and won the ball time and again to apply pressure to the Winshill defence. JJ Harris latched onto a fine Ryan Benfield through ball to score the sixth goal as he shot low into the net.

Winshill have to be given credit for pressing at every available opportunity but the central defence of Lee Johnson and Dom Hickman were reading the game so well that little got through.

With only minutes remaining Mark Worth also netted his hat-trick with a clinical finish that the 'keeper could do little about to make it seven.

This was a fine display across the park for the Reds who played some great football and keeping a clean sheet will give the defence more confidence for the upcoming games.

Scorers:

• Joe Wilson - 3
• Mark Worth - 3
• JJ Harris - 1

20th September 2009

Chasetown FC 3 - 1 Rolleston Red

One of the longest away journeys saw the Reds face the new boys of this division who had obliterated all before them in their local league in previous years.

A fine Sunday morning with the temperature reaching twenty degrees as the game got under way.

The game was open in the first few minutes with the midfield of Ryan Benfield, Dan Featherstone, Lewis McQuillan and Mark Worth having to work hard to win the ball.

On nine minutes Dan Feathersotne won the ball and played it to Ryan Benfield. He ran to the right before laying it to Mark Worth who took on his defender before cutting inside to play in Dan Wildman. He took a touch before unleashing a shot that rifled into the top of the net but the linesman had his flag up for offside.

Rolleston pressed once more on sixteen minutes when Dan Featherstone played a fine pass inside the right back for Dan Wildman to run on to. As the 'keeper advanced he took it round him before playing it out to Lewis McQuillan whose shot was charged down. The ball fell to Dan Featherstone who laid it off to Ryan Benfield. He struck the ball extremely well but just wide right.

Chasetown were playing some fine football and almost broke through but for a fine tackle by the ubiquitous Liam Goode who then cleared the ball to Mark Worth. He rolled the ball to JJ Harris on the edge of the Chasetown eighteen yard with the resulting shot flying just wide.

When Lee Johnson won the ball in the heart of defence he ran ten yards with it before playing in Ryan Benfield. He in turn ran with the ball before releasing JJ Harris. The defender was caught flat-footed as JJ flew past him and rifled a great effort that the 'keeper swallowed before clearing.

The Rolleston defence was being marshalled well by Dom Hickman who pushed his defenders up at every opportunity as Rolleston pressed at every opportunity. Ben Whitehouse in goal had little to do for most of the first half but when called upon was supreme between the sticks.

The Chasetown left-winger knew he was in a game as the terrier-like Lewis Wright gave him a torrid time at every opportunity but at times needed more support from the player in front of him.

Half-time 0 - 0.

The manager made a few changes at half-time with Matt Morgan having his turn in goal. The Reds took on liquid during the break as they had worked so hard in the first half hour and had to stay hydrated.

Simon Billings was showing his presence in the right- midfield area, winning the ball before laying it off simply to the front-runner. Simon was responsible for some fine tackling in this half that lifted his teammates.

Rolleston kicked off the second half and pressed forward from the start. When the ball fell to the Chasetown left back, Tom Dunne showed his pace to close him down before delivering a pass to Ryan Benfield on the eighteen-yard box. He controlled the ball then let loose with a rocket that flew past the 'keeper to hit the back of the net.

On thirty-six minutes Chasetown equalised from a free kick wide right. The wall of three didn't appear to be set up right and this allowed the free-kick taker to drive the ball into the near post area with the 'keeper choosing to defend his left side.

Rolleston rallied from the restart with Henry Parker flicking on the ball to JJ Harris. He took on his man before playing the ball to Tom Dunne who rolled it out to Mark Worth. His shot was parried by the 'keeper but no Rolleston striker was at hand to mop up.

Chasetown took the lead from a speculative shot that took a deflection and looped over the 'keeper. This was a bitter blow for the Reds as they looked to be in control up to this point.

With the minutes ticking away, three players were pushed up front for Rolleston to apply pressure to the Chasetown defence. However, the ball was being passed around well by Chasetown and even the very impressive Liam Goode - who won every header for the duration of the game - could do little as the ball was driven in from out wide and seemed to deceive the 'keeper ending up in the back of the net.

On the final whistle the Rolleston players were visibly drained having given 100% effort but they were up against a talented Chasetown team who will do very well in this division.

A special mention for Ryan Benfield, Dan Featherstone and Liam Goode who were ever present during the game giving everything they had for the full duration of the game.

Scorer: Ryan Benfield - 1

13th September 2009

Rolleston Red 5 - 4 Barton Rovers

The first home game of the season saw the visit of last year's runner's up to Craythorne.

Rolleston were only two players short in their squad this week due to injury or holiday commitments.

The Reds started brightly but found themselves a goal down from a long ball that caught the defence flatfooted.

From the restart Rolleston pressed forward with Ryan Benfield playing the ball out wide to Lewis McQuillan. He rolled it to Dan Wildman down the left wing who took a touch before looking up to see JJ Harrison the middle between the two central defenders. The crowd thought he had scored with a delicate lob but it went agonisingly wide.

More pressure from the Reds resulted in a corner that Liam Goode took quickly and short to Mark Worth. He skinned the defender before unleashing a great shot on the edge of the box that flew in to the net to cut the deficit to one.

Rolleston were spraying the ball around confidently after a shaky start and equalised after sixteen minutes when the Rovers defence failed to clear and Dan Wildman opened his account from close range.

Only a minute later Rolleston should have taken the lead when Dan Featherstone flicked the ball on to Dan Wildman who ran at the defender before shooting hard and low. The Rovers 'keeper was up to the challenge and pulled off a fine save.

The game ebbed and flowed for the next ten minutes with Matt Morgan pulling off two saves to keep the score even. At the other end Ryan Benfield played in Dan Wildman who in turn passed the ball out wide between the two defenders for Lewis McQuillan at the back post. He took a touch and blasted the ball towards goal but the ball was rising all the time and the chance went begging.

On thirty minutes Rovers regained the lead from a speculative shot from twenty-five yards that looped over the advancing Rolleston 'keeper.

Shortly before half-time Tom Dunne ran with the ball from deep and released Mark Worth. He took on his marker and then played the ball to Dan Wildman who met it at speed before shooting low and just wide.

The Rolleston defence of Liam Goode, the impressive Lewis Wright, Dominic Hickman and the captain Lee Johnson were called upon to snuff out one last Rovers chance before the referee blew for half-time.

Half-time 2 - 3.

Rolleston started very brightly in the second half. There was a 'keeper change for Rolleston with Ben Whitehouse having a turn between the sticks.

With only seven minutes gone Rolleston equalised when Lewis Wright won the ball near the half way line. He played it infield to Dan Featherstone who took a touch before laying the ball to Ryan Benfield. He spotted Dan Wildman making a run across the two defenders and played a delightful ball for him to run on to. It was a straight race between the 'keeper and the striker that the striker won with a header before slotting home with his left foot.

The manager made more changes with Simon Billings entering the fray and put in a fine header almost immediately to clear the danger.

Lee Johnson won the ball well in the centre of the park before playing it wide to Mark Worth. He skinned his defender before delivering a fine cross that the strikers should have got a touch to but the ball flew across the goal for a goal kick.

Rolleston finally got their noses in front for the first time when Ryan Benfield linked with Simon Billings in the middle of the park. He played it back to Ryan who floated the ball over the Rovers defence for Dan Wildman to run on to thirty yards from goal. As the 'keeper advanced Dan calmly lobbed the ball over him for his hat-trick.

Rolleston won the ball from the restart and pressed forward once more. JJ Harris had a fine effort from outside the box that looked to be heading towards the top corner but instead went agonisingly wide.

On the hour Henry Parker won the ball up front, shielding it well before laying it to Lewis McQuillan. He took a touch before playing it to Ryan Benfield whose resulting shot caught the 'keeper flatfooted but again the ball went wide.

The defence stood strong but when Barton did break through Ben Whitehouse in goal pulled off some fine saves from distance.

Liam Goode won a 50-50 ball in the centre of the park before the Rovers player fouled him. He drove in a fine free-kick that Dan Featherstone deftly flicked on to JJ Harris who lobbed the 'keeper for a well deserved goal after all his industrious work throughout the game.

Dominic Hickman and Lee Johnson were leading by example, winning ball after ball with brave headers that applied pressure to the Rovers defence time and again.

Rovers scored with the last kick of the game but this was a fine and deserved win against a strong Barton side especially having been two goals down. The whole squad played with conviction, commitment and character and should be very proud of their performance.

Scorers:

• Dan Wildman (3)
• JJ Harris (1)
• Mark Worth (1)
  

06th September 2009

Marlborough Rovers 4 - 0 Rolleston Red

Here we go again for the start of another exciting football season.

The Reds were away in Leicestershire today at the home of last years Champions. A tough opening game at the best of times but with the manager only having eleven players available to him due to holidays and other commitments as well as injuries, it was going to be a hard test for the players.

Some of the players had to adapt to new positions for the game and this was brought home in the opening minutes when the Champions opened the scoring after some fine play.

The second goal arrived on twenty minutes when the player made a run from deep and slotted home without being picked up.

Rolleston rallied and played some fine linkup football but could not convert the pressure in to goals.

Matt Morgan pulled off two fine saves from long range and Simon Billings cleared off the line to show the commitment needed when the chips were down.

On twenty-six minutes the ball landed in the Rolleston area were there was a lot of pushing going on and the referee blew for a foul. The Reds believed it was a defensive free-kick but the ref pointed to the spot to give Marlborough a penalty. The player made no mistake to increase the lead.

It was time for Rolleston to attack once more and Dan Wildman picked up the ball from his own half and ran through the midfield before unleashing a shot that flew wide.

A long clearance from the Marlborough 'keeper caught the defence on the back foot. The Marlborough attacker went through one-on-one with the Rolleston 'keeper and he increased the lead by converting the chance.

Rolleston have more resilience than last season and this showed in the remaining minutes of the half when they strung together some fine passes and put Marlborough on the defensive.

Half-time 4 - 0.

Rolleston attacked from the start of the second half and won a free-kick almost immediately on the edge of the Marlborough box. Spanner Featherstone placed the ball before striking it just wide left.

Matt Morgan was called upon again to pull off another fine save after a Marlborough attack.

Rolleston were defending well with their limited resources and when the ball was cleared it fell to Dan Wildman who released Tom Dunne. He raced at the defender to relieve the pressure allowing the defence to regroup.

JJ was played in on the right before taking on his defender. His resulting cross was saved by the 'keeper who was alert to the danger. Henry Parker was linking well with the other forwards throughout, battling for the ball when necessary.

Rolleston applied pressure resulting in a corner. The ball was swung in and cleared to Lewis McQuillan whose shot was parried away for another corner. This time the delivery was met by a Rolleston head but the ball was cleared. Marlborough broke away with the ball but it was Dan Wildman who tracked back the full length of the field to assist the defence.

A fine ball was spread to Tom Dunne out wide right but as he raced to it the Marlborough 'keeper was alert to the danger and cleared the danger.

Marlborough had the luxury of making frequent substitutes but the tiring Reds battled on with the midfielder Spanner Featherstone battling and leading by example. Dom Hickman read the game well and cleared any potential danger at every opportunity but missed his usual partner in the heart of the defense.

The Champions pressed once more but Matt Morgan was again up for the challenge and saved well with only minutes remaining.

Lewis Wright stayed on task throughout the game and when he won the ball on the right he played it to JJ who ran at his defender before shooting low but the 'keeper was on his toes saving well.

On the left it was Liam Goode who won the ball before laying it off to Lewis McQuillan but the defender was too strong and cleared the threat.

Rolleston played out the game passing the ball around and should take heart from the performance, especially keeping a second half clean sheet when Marlborough pressed at every opportunity. The players should be proud of their individual performances - principally those who were asked to play in positions that were alien to them against a very strong Marlborough outfit.