Spring Season 2016 (League Game 2)
Pats 1-Falcons 2
In what's becoming a theme this season, Pats lose out after another tough battle in a game of 'pseudo-football.'
Hungry to gain our first victory of the year, Pats came out guns firing only to be dampened by the sudden deluge of rain, long balls, and tall foreigners. Before 5 minutes had even passed, play had to be postponed due to the absurd amounts of rain being dumped on by above. Play resumed a couple of minutes later but the trajectory of the game would not be the same. Still dealing with the pounding rain, Pats and the Falcons had to now contend with lake-sized puddles of the water dotting the pitch and not about to drain any time soon. No longer could we contentedly pass the ball to each other on the ground or dribble it a couple of paces. Adjusting to the elements and the new pitch took all-game and ended up being the difference in the end. Pats 0 - 1 Weather.
Pats came out ready to rumble in the torrential conditions but were soon thwarted by the rain. The first period was a wash, literally and figuratively, as both sides were learning how to walk all over again. It saw very sloppy and comical football as players would spring by each other only to leave the ball behind. Passes would come up short, stuck in puddles. Falcons ended up drawing first blood in the second period with a long ball over the top (which would quickly become and remain the focal point of the game) that found their striker in on our keeper. Despite the best efforts of our Mexican-Canadian keeper, Derek Corbin aka 'El Dot' aka 'Best Private Tutor in Korea' we found ourselves down by 1. We struck back in a fluke set of circumstances as an easy through ball destined for their keeper found itself trapped in a puddle in front of him. Our resident multi-lingual South African, Victor aka 'I want Ice Cream' aka 'Please, one more soda' aka 'Sprite, not Cola, I have homework tonight,' jumped on the pass and tied the game up.
The second period found us creating more and more chances but none that we were able to capitalize on. The third period brought a change of tactics for Falcons and heartbreak in the end as a goal in the last 5 minutes sealed the deal. By thumping ball after ball to their towering brutes up the line, Pats were held to just trying to clear the ball out. Throw-ins became set pieces, the bane of Pats.
Overall, it was a rough display but a very spirited performance. Chances were created, but not taken. The next game will be pivotal in getting back to the right path.
On the plus side, Carlos aka 'The Colombian Hammer' did not lose any balls!
Pats 1-Falcons 2
In what's becoming a theme this season, Pats lose out after another tough battle in a game of 'pseudo-football.'
Hungry to gain our first victory of the year, Pats came out guns firing only to be dampened by the sudden deluge of rain, long balls, and tall foreigners. Before 5 minutes had even passed, play had to be postponed due to the absurd amounts of rain being dumped on by above. Play resumed a couple of minutes later but the trajectory of the game would not be the same. Still dealing with the pounding rain, Pats and the Falcons had to now contend with lake-sized puddles of the water dotting the pitch and not about to drain any time soon. No longer could we contentedly pass the ball to each other on the ground or dribble it a couple of paces. Adjusting to the elements and the new pitch took all-game and ended up being the difference in the end. Pats 0 - 1 Weather.
Pats came out ready to rumble in the torrential conditions but were soon thwarted by the rain. The first period was a wash, literally and figuratively, as both sides were learning how to walk all over again. It saw very sloppy and comical football as players would spring by each other only to leave the ball behind. Passes would come up short, stuck in puddles. Falcons ended up drawing first blood in the second period with a long ball over the top (which would quickly become and remain the focal point of the game) that found their striker in on our keeper. Despite the best efforts of our Mexican-Canadian keeper, Derek Corbin aka 'El Dot' aka 'Best Private Tutor in Korea' we found ourselves down by 1. We struck back in a fluke set of circumstances as an easy through ball destined for their keeper found itself trapped in a puddle in front of him. Our resident multi-lingual South African, Victor aka 'I want Ice Cream' aka 'Please, one more soda' aka 'Sprite, not Cola, I have homework tonight,' jumped on the pass and tied the game up.
The second period found us creating more and more chances but none that we were able to capitalize on. The third period brought a change of tactics for Falcons and heartbreak in the end as a goal in the last 5 minutes sealed the deal. By thumping ball after ball to their towering brutes up the line, Pats were held to just trying to clear the ball out. Throw-ins became set pieces, the bane of Pats.
Overall, it was a rough display but a very spirited performance. Chances were created, but not taken. The next game will be pivotal in getting back to the right path.
On the plus side, Carlos aka 'The Colombian Hammer' did not lose any balls!
Spring Season 2016 (League Game 1)
Pats 0-2 Cosmos
Cosmos come out on top after tough battle
After a long 12 months in the waiting, Pats finally made our debut in SSSL Division 1 where opposition was provided by last season's runners up, Seoul Cosmos. In what was always going to be a tough test of our credentials Cosmos ran out deserving 2 goal winners with Pats old boy Stu Williams nabbing a brace. However there were a lot of positives to be taken from a gutsy Pats performance that saw us create a number of excellent scoring opportunities over the 90 minutes.
Pats lined up with Floutier in goals behind a back four of Askinas, Cummane, Salazar and Dennehy. Timmo and Woongchan provided a beauty and the beast combination in the middle of the park behind an attacking trio of Porn Hyeob, Chan and Seong tasked with providing ammunition for Bruce 'the rhino' Jheon up top. Over the course of the 90 minutes Jack, Jamba, Eslam, Son and Jang Ho also contributed handsomely to the performance.
The early stages were tight and competitive with both teams pressing high and time and space at a premium. The tempo of the game was certainly higher than anything the Pats had experienced in quite a while which resulted in a lot of hurried and frantic play when in possession. However defensively as a unit we were looking solid with Cosmos struggling to create any clear cut chances. Cosmos rattled the crossbar midway through the first period when Pats failed to clear our lines from a set piece. At the other end we created a couple of half chances before Eslam came agonizingly close to opening the deadlock just before the break but somehow the ball stayed out.
The second period got underway with Cosmos on top initially before we enjoyed our best period of the game. Ironically, it was during this period that we conceded our first goal. An incorrect decision by the referee to award Cosmos a corner instead of a throw in resulted in a scramble that ended with the ball bouncing around the six yard box before being bundled over the line; a scrappy goal, but they all count.
The third period (yes, there are 3!) saw Pats concede another soft goal early from a set piece that pretty much wrapped the game up for Cosmos. The dismissal of Dennehy for mistiming his tackle on the goalkeeper by 3 days and Salazar's insistence on booting every ball we had over the fence put paid to any chance we had of staging a comeback. However, we did finally begin to pass the ball a little better in the final period and were extremely unlucky not to grab a goal back on a couple of occasions. The game petered out with a deserved win for Cosmos who will be a difficult side to beat this season. For Pats, an encouraging start that should give the team confidence.
MVP: Neil 'the hatchet' Timmins was at his battling and antagonizing best on Saturday putting in a huge amount of work in midfield.
The John Smith No Nonsense Award: Carlos managed to lose a total of 4 footballs between the two teams which beats a club record set by himself back in 2014.
Most Fashionable Pat: Woongchan's delectable brown suede coat was the talk of Itaewon on Saturday night and turned the heads of all the local fashionistas.
Pats 0-2 Cosmos
Cosmos come out on top after tough battle
After a long 12 months in the waiting, Pats finally made our debut in SSSL Division 1 where opposition was provided by last season's runners up, Seoul Cosmos. In what was always going to be a tough test of our credentials Cosmos ran out deserving 2 goal winners with Pats old boy Stu Williams nabbing a brace. However there were a lot of positives to be taken from a gutsy Pats performance that saw us create a number of excellent scoring opportunities over the 90 minutes.
Pats lined up with Floutier in goals behind a back four of Askinas, Cummane, Salazar and Dennehy. Timmo and Woongchan provided a beauty and the beast combination in the middle of the park behind an attacking trio of Porn Hyeob, Chan and Seong tasked with providing ammunition for Bruce 'the rhino' Jheon up top. Over the course of the 90 minutes Jack, Jamba, Eslam, Son and Jang Ho also contributed handsomely to the performance.
The early stages were tight and competitive with both teams pressing high and time and space at a premium. The tempo of the game was certainly higher than anything the Pats had experienced in quite a while which resulted in a lot of hurried and frantic play when in possession. However defensively as a unit we were looking solid with Cosmos struggling to create any clear cut chances. Cosmos rattled the crossbar midway through the first period when Pats failed to clear our lines from a set piece. At the other end we created a couple of half chances before Eslam came agonizingly close to opening the deadlock just before the break but somehow the ball stayed out.
The second period got underway with Cosmos on top initially before we enjoyed our best period of the game. Ironically, it was during this period that we conceded our first goal. An incorrect decision by the referee to award Cosmos a corner instead of a throw in resulted in a scramble that ended with the ball bouncing around the six yard box before being bundled over the line; a scrappy goal, but they all count.
The third period (yes, there are 3!) saw Pats concede another soft goal early from a set piece that pretty much wrapped the game up for Cosmos. The dismissal of Dennehy for mistiming his tackle on the goalkeeper by 3 days and Salazar's insistence on booting every ball we had over the fence put paid to any chance we had of staging a comeback. However, we did finally begin to pass the ball a little better in the final period and were extremely unlucky not to grab a goal back on a couple of occasions. The game petered out with a deserved win for Cosmos who will be a difficult side to beat this season. For Pats, an encouraging start that should give the team confidence.
MVP: Neil 'the hatchet' Timmins was at his battling and antagonizing best on Saturday putting in a huge amount of work in midfield.
The John Smith No Nonsense Award: Carlos managed to lose a total of 4 footballs between the two teams which beats a club record set by himself back in 2014.
Most Fashionable Pat: Woongchan's delectable brown suede coat was the talk of Itaewon on Saturday night and turned the heads of all the local fashionistas.
Spring Season 2016 (Preseason Game 1 Vs HBC)
Pats 6-HBC 1
Pats had a good workout against an under-strength HBC side and got the 2016 preseason campaign off to a positive start. The Pats recruitment machine has been in hyperdrive over the winter with every bar, website and homeless shelter scoured for new talent to strengthen a squad weakened by the loss of several key performers from last season. The results of that recruitment drive were visible with 7 new players available on the day, all of whom contributed handsomely to the victory.
With newly married Derek Russell away on his honeymoon, Floutier took on goalkeeping duties. In keeping with traditional French sports values, he mixed the sublime with the ridiculous; pulling off 3 or 4 fantastic saves before being lobbed by a mis-hit free kick from about 40 meters. In defence, Cummane and Salazar renewed their center back partnership from last season and, despite missing 80% of their headers, didn't argue once, which made it a momentous occasion for Pats two grumpiest men.
The full back berths were manned at different stages by newcomers Askinas, Tek, Dennehy and Carlito; Nialler's tendency to shoot speculatively from anywhere up to 30 yards not going unnoticed. The lack of familiarity between our defenders was evident in the amount of chances that HBC created and on another day we could have conceded 3 or 4 goals... Something to work on before Feb 27
In midfield Timmins was his usual dominant self, hacking and slashing his way around the park and winning the physical battle hands down. He was joined in the engine room by new signings Zizu and Mwale and both can be happy with their efforts.
In attack, O Neill, Sung, Rafa, PornHyeob, Jamba, and Jeon all had their moments over the 90 minutes, with Porn Hyeob in particular reveling in a more central role. The little Korean's interplay with Valentine and Rafa was too sharp for HBC to handle and was the main difference between the sides. With some more potential signings on the way and the expected return of some of the more experienced Pats from their winter slumber, the squad should start to take shape quite nicely over the oncoming weeks.
Scorers: Bruce Jeon (2)
Rafael Ramos-Mayer (3)
Valentine Jamba (1)
Man of the match: Lee Eun Hyeob (3 assists in all round sexy display of footy)
Pats 6-HBC 1
Pats had a good workout against an under-strength HBC side and got the 2016 preseason campaign off to a positive start. The Pats recruitment machine has been in hyperdrive over the winter with every bar, website and homeless shelter scoured for new talent to strengthen a squad weakened by the loss of several key performers from last season. The results of that recruitment drive were visible with 7 new players available on the day, all of whom contributed handsomely to the victory.
With newly married Derek Russell away on his honeymoon, Floutier took on goalkeeping duties. In keeping with traditional French sports values, he mixed the sublime with the ridiculous; pulling off 3 or 4 fantastic saves before being lobbed by a mis-hit free kick from about 40 meters. In defence, Cummane and Salazar renewed their center back partnership from last season and, despite missing 80% of their headers, didn't argue once, which made it a momentous occasion for Pats two grumpiest men.
The full back berths were manned at different stages by newcomers Askinas, Tek, Dennehy and Carlito; Nialler's tendency to shoot speculatively from anywhere up to 30 yards not going unnoticed. The lack of familiarity between our defenders was evident in the amount of chances that HBC created and on another day we could have conceded 3 or 4 goals... Something to work on before Feb 27
In midfield Timmins was his usual dominant self, hacking and slashing his way around the park and winning the physical battle hands down. He was joined in the engine room by new signings Zizu and Mwale and both can be happy with their efforts.
In attack, O Neill, Sung, Rafa, PornHyeob, Jamba, and Jeon all had their moments over the 90 minutes, with Porn Hyeob in particular reveling in a more central role. The little Korean's interplay with Valentine and Rafa was too sharp for HBC to handle and was the main difference between the sides. With some more potential signings on the way and the expected return of some of the more experienced Pats from their winter slumber, the squad should start to take shape quite nicely over the oncoming weeks.
Scorers: Bruce Jeon (2)
Rafael Ramos-Mayer (3)
Valentine Jamba (1)
Man of the match: Lee Eun Hyeob (3 assists in all round sexy display of footy)
St Pats Division 2 Fall Season 2015 Review
The Fall season saw some major changes for the Pats with the retirement of defensive stalwarts Simpson and Machin. The twin towers had soldiered together at the heart of the Pats defensive unit for many years and the absence of their physical presence meant that a defenisve reshuffle was required.
Despite a promising pre-season campaign, the league started off with what was to be our only defeat with a 2-1 loss to HBC. This meant that the next game against AC Villans took on extra significance but a strong performance saw us run out 4-2 victors. Following this win, the return of captain and key attacking threat Rafa coincided with a succession of comfortable high-scoring victories.
As we approached the midway stage of the season it was clear that promotion was becoming a 3 horse race between Pats, HBC and INTS. Management pinpointed three crucial ties, fixed for consecutive weekends against INTS, HBC and Villans, as being the key to our promotion chances. Pats produced our best performance of the season to beat INTS and leapfrog our opponents to go top of the table, a position we never relinquished. A hard fought win against promotion rivals HBC followed which gave us some measure of revenge for our opening day defeat by the same opposition. One week later, Villans again provided stiff opposition on a bitterly cold day in Incheon, but a late flurry of goals saw Pats claim the three points.
Having gained maximum points from these 3 crucial fixtures,we felt that the hard work was done and unfortunately numbers seemed to drop for a few weeks. However, despite this, we proved to be too strong for all opposition. The season concluded with an excellent, hard fought game of football against INTS, Pats coming from behind to finish 2015 on a high with a deserved 2-1 victory.
The Fall season saw some major changes for the Pats with the retirement of defensive stalwarts Simpson and Machin. The twin towers had soldiered together at the heart of the Pats defensive unit for many years and the absence of their physical presence meant that a defenisve reshuffle was required.
Despite a promising pre-season campaign, the league started off with what was to be our only defeat with a 2-1 loss to HBC. This meant that the next game against AC Villans took on extra significance but a strong performance saw us run out 4-2 victors. Following this win, the return of captain and key attacking threat Rafa coincided with a succession of comfortable high-scoring victories.
As we approached the midway stage of the season it was clear that promotion was becoming a 3 horse race between Pats, HBC and INTS. Management pinpointed three crucial ties, fixed for consecutive weekends against INTS, HBC and Villans, as being the key to our promotion chances. Pats produced our best performance of the season to beat INTS and leapfrog our opponents to go top of the table, a position we never relinquished. A hard fought win against promotion rivals HBC followed which gave us some measure of revenge for our opening day defeat by the same opposition. One week later, Villans again provided stiff opposition on a bitterly cold day in Incheon, but a late flurry of goals saw Pats claim the three points.
Having gained maximum points from these 3 crucial fixtures,we felt that the hard work was done and unfortunately numbers seemed to drop for a few weeks. However, despite this, we proved to be too strong for all opposition. The season concluded with an excellent, hard fought game of football against INTS, Pats coming from behind to finish 2015 on a high with a deserved 2-1 victory.
Hosts grab victory with late winner
Incheon FC 3-2 St Pats
Few would have thought that this was the same team who, a week previous, had been disjointed and in disarray as they suffered their first defeat in over twenty hours of football. In the intervening period, many of the players had been dubbed as fat, unfit and uninspiring. Even the manager, previously untouchable, had come under fire for poor tactics and for not imposing strict enough curfews on players. Yet, against free scoring Incheon FC, Pats started brightly.
Seven days of soul searching had clearly provoked a response, and despite a reshuffle at the back, forced, in part, by injuries and absentees, Pats seemed to have regained the fluidity that had epitomised many of their championship winning performances from the season before. For their part, however, Incheon produced some tidy link up play and always looked capable of catching Pats on the counter. And they did just that; a superb diagonal ball from midfield putting their frontman in behind a backpedalling Pats defence to open the scoring for the hosts. Undeterred, Pats almost restored parity immediately. First, Dowdall blazed over from close range, and then, Melvin was dispossessed at the last moment, having found himself clear. A period of successive Pat’s corners followed but, aside from a dipping shot by Creegan and O’Ruadhain’s long range effort, the opposing keeper did not have whole lot to do. Indeed, Incheon were unfortunate not to go two goals up before the interval when a well struck shot, which had Griffin beaten, came back off the upright allowing the Pats’ keeper to gather.
Soon after half time the teams were back on level terms. Dowdall, released down the right flank, sent the ball across from the byline and it fell to the feet of impressive debutant Kieran Robinson. Showing excellent technique, the Mancunian hit the back of the net with a terrific half volley. Pats looked the team most likely to go on and get a second, after this, playing with confidence and vigour. However the game turned midway through the half when Griffindor was harshly adjudged to have handled the ball outside his area, as he released it, to be kicked upfield. The keeper could not keep out the resulting direct free kick, which, was hit low and hard, to put Incheon back in front again. After big Stu Williams missed a chance to bring Pat’s level , the usually unflappable Gryffin, perhaps, still fuming over the free kick and resulting goal had a ‘David James’ moment when, under no apparent pressure, he passed the ball straight to an opposing player. With the goal gaping open, the Incheon striker inexcusably went for power rather than placement and the ball crashed off the near post, sparing the keeper’s blushes. Pats continued to push forward and finally looked to have secured a point with a minute to go. A chipped pass by Phil Murphy bounced inside the area up and over the keeper, and Dowdall, with his selfish striker’s instinct, made sure by heading into an empty net from all of two yards out. The celebrations had barely died down when Pats players had their heads in their hands. Incheon had scored. A moment’s loss of concentration providing a bitter end to an enthralling game. Two defeats in as many weeks. Down but not disheartened. It was a much improved performance on the previous week and should give the team plenty to build on for the next game against defending champions Inter Suwon.
Scorers: Kieran Robinson Assist: Mark Dowdall
Scorers: Mark Dowdall Assist: Phillip Murphy
Fall Season 2012 Game 2 Seoul Celtic 2- 1 St Pats
Hamstrung Pats Wilt Under Derby Heat
The Seoul Celtic clash was an inopportune time for the Pats to produce their worst performance of the Browne era, but so it transpired on a wickedly hot afternoon in Soyosan. Despite leading by a goal at the break thanks to Meredith’s first competitive goal for the club, a combination of injuries and a lack of fitness led to a terrible second half showing from the lackluster Pats. It was a wake-up call of epic proportions with only the excellence of goalkeeper Griffin keeping the score respectable.
It hadn’t started particularly well either. Cummane set the tone early on when he almost gifted Celtic the opening goal with a wayward defensive pass before crying soon after with injury. The passing game adopted by the team in recent times was nowhere to be seen as we struggled to find any fluidity, more often than not knocking the ball long without any success. Celtic’s weekend recruitment drive had been a fruitful one as they gave six players a debut, some of whom were excellent footballers. In a scrappy hard fought battle we eventually managed to settle down with Meredith being involved in some decent build up play in the centre of the park. The big man put us ahead 25 minutes in when he got on the end of Melvin’s pass following good work from Browne and Taylor on the left. It was as good as it got for the Pats. Celtic dominated the rest of the half as we continued to make glaring individual errors in possession, gifting the ball back to our opponents time and time again. Our defense held firm however, and for the second week in a row the Pats took a 1 nil lead into the break.
The second half is best forgotten from a Pats perspective. Injuries robbed us of key players and with some of our subs only working their way back from injury or long periods of inactivity, we simply didn’t have the legs to compete with Celtic. Their new look team had forged ahead by the 65 minute mark following two clinical finishes. In keeping with the pattern of the day, we gifted them their two goals, losing possession needlessly in dangerous positions. As much as we huffed and puffed in a bid to draw level we couldn’t seem to create any kind of a decent chance against a superbly marshaled defense, although O Ruadhain pulled a decent save from Higgins in the Celtic goal. As we pushed forward we left holes at the back and only for Griffin’s heroics and a dodgy off-side call, the punishment could have been much worse.
This was a really bad day at the office for the Pats, but it’s not a true reflection of the ability of the side in any way. Fitness killed us, and fitness can be remedied with hard work. They don’t get any easier with a trip to Incheon on Sunday and vast improvement will be needed if we are to get a result. Best on the day for Pats was Griffin who is improving with each game. Also, Melvin brought some much needed energy to the pitch on his second half reintroduction and O Ruadhain had some fine moments before his legs gave up. For the rest it was an afternoon to forget.
It hadn’t started particularly well either. Cummane set the tone early on when he almost gifted Celtic the opening goal with a wayward defensive pass before crying soon after with injury. The passing game adopted by the team in recent times was nowhere to be seen as we struggled to find any fluidity, more often than not knocking the ball long without any success. Celtic’s weekend recruitment drive had been a fruitful one as they gave six players a debut, some of whom were excellent footballers. In a scrappy hard fought battle we eventually managed to settle down with Meredith being involved in some decent build up play in the centre of the park. The big man put us ahead 25 minutes in when he got on the end of Melvin’s pass following good work from Browne and Taylor on the left. It was as good as it got for the Pats. Celtic dominated the rest of the half as we continued to make glaring individual errors in possession, gifting the ball back to our opponents time and time again. Our defense held firm however, and for the second week in a row the Pats took a 1 nil lead into the break.
The second half is best forgotten from a Pats perspective. Injuries robbed us of key players and with some of our subs only working their way back from injury or long periods of inactivity, we simply didn’t have the legs to compete with Celtic. Their new look team had forged ahead by the 65 minute mark following two clinical finishes. In keeping with the pattern of the day, we gifted them their two goals, losing possession needlessly in dangerous positions. As much as we huffed and puffed in a bid to draw level we couldn’t seem to create any kind of a decent chance against a superbly marshaled defense, although O Ruadhain pulled a decent save from Higgins in the Celtic goal. As we pushed forward we left holes at the back and only for Griffin’s heroics and a dodgy off-side call, the punishment could have been much worse.
This was a really bad day at the office for the Pats, but it’s not a true reflection of the ability of the side in any way. Fitness killed us, and fitness can be remedied with hard work. They don’t get any easier with a trip to Incheon on Sunday and vast improvement will be needed if we are to get a result. Best on the day for Pats was Griffin who is improving with each game. Also, Melvin brought some much needed energy to the pitch on his second half reintroduction and O Ruadhain had some fine moments before his legs gave up. For the rest it was an afternoon to forget.
Division 1 Fall Season 2012. Game 1
Seoul Storm 1- 2 St Patricks FC 2
Storm clouds blown away as Pats open the season with a win
After a long absence from the top flight of Seoul Sunday league football the Pats are back in the first tier, toasting their reappearance with a fine win against old rivals Seoul Storm. In blisteringly hot conditions Eddy B’s black and white army held on against fierce late pressure to grab a wholly satisfying 2-1 win to get the new season off to a great start.
There were more questions than answers coming into this opening day fixture; would the Pats be able to step up to the level required to play division 1? Would Mark ‘Goldenballs’ Dowdall be capable of continuing his rich scoring form? How would Declan Griffin’s new nose cope with the rigors of D1 football? Could veteran Taidgh Simpson’s legs keep motoring for yet another season? The answer was a resounding “yes”.
We started very brightly, passing the ball well and building the play patiently from the back. We created the first chance of the game, Dowdall and Conor ‘Motorboat’ Melvin combining well to draw a fine save from the keeper. On the 15 minute mark (pardon the pun) the aforementioned duo was heavily involved in the creation and scoring of the Pats first goal in the top flight for 7 seasons. Dowdall used his strength to hold off his marker and then slipped Melvin through who broke the offside trap and shot home via a deflection off a Storm defender. It was a fully deserved 1-0 lead for the Pats who continued to dominate possession in the ensuing minutes, pressing Storm back into their half with some quality football.
However, as the legs grew weary in the baking sun and the previous night’s exertions began to catch up on some of the Pats, the pace and rhythm of our game dropped as Storm came back into the contest. We had to defend some dangerous set-pieces and were lucky on a couple of occasions that the ball didn’t drop kindly for waiting Storm attackers. The game became scrappy as mistakes became more frequent and there were stoppages aplenty as the home side moaned incessantly at the ref, who admittedly, was awful. With Storm on top and applying the pressure as the half wore on, it was a relieved Pats side that made it to the half time break one goal to the good.
The message at half time was simple; keep possession, increase the intensity and grab a second goal. It was even stevens for the most of the second half with both sides giving their all in a bid to claim the upper hand. While passing the ball reasonably well, there wasn’t enough pace or zip in our game to open up the Storm defense, who looked comfortable in dealing with our best efforts. At the other end the Pats backline, marshaled by the excellent Murphy, was also coping admirably with Storm’s advances, Griffin rarely being tested. In this tight arm wrestle it was going to take something special to unlock a defense and it was last year’s division 2 MVP and golden boot winner, GoldenBalls Dowdall who provided it. Flynn did the donkey work, dispossessing a Storm defender and releasing Dowdall down the right flank. The speedster still had a lot of work to do, taking on his man at pace before unleashing an unstoppable strike across the keeper and into the net. 2-0 and Pats in the driving seat with 20 minutes left on the clock.
The clever thing to do at this stage would have been to hold possession and run down the clock but a combination of fatigue and what seemed like a lack of confidence infected the Pats for the rest of the game. In a bid to play it safe and not get caught in possession we began to revert to the long ball game of seasons passed and in doing so handed the initiative back to the Storm. They took advantage of a huge slice of fortune on 80 minutes when Melvin was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box and a penalty was called. Despite Griffin’s best efforts the peno was converted and we were all set for a nervy finish. As Storm pushed high looking to salvage a point, we hit them on the break and really should have wrapped the tie up but some poor decision making at vital times let us down. Hearts were very much in mouths when, at the death, Griffin had to react wonderfully to keep out a close range header and finally win all three points for the Pats.
This was a very satisfying win from the Pats who are aware that there is lots of improvement to be made if we are to have a successful season. As opening day fixtures go however, everyone involved can be proud of their efforts. Next up are friends and rivals Seoul Celtic, in what should be another closely fought encounter.
Goalscorers: Melvin (Dowdall assist)
Dowdall (Flynn assist)
Weekly Awards
Goal of the game: Dowdall’s second half strike was a cracker.
Save of the game: Griffindor saved our bacon at the end with a terrific reaction save, capping off his most assured performance in a Pats shirt to date.
The ‘I Thought it was Saturday’ Award. Timmy Simpson seemed to have had a bad case of amnesia when he launched a Gaelic Football style shoulder charge at an unsuspecting Korean lad in the first half. The only thing more ridiculous then the challenge was his protestation of innocence.
Motorboating Mess Award: Conor Melvin
Bromance Award: Padraic ‘ I swear I didn’t do it’ Cummane and Brian ‘The Wolf’ Howley
Round 1 Big Boy Award: Conor Melvin (points total still not decided)
There were more questions than answers coming into this opening day fixture; would the Pats be able to step up to the level required to play division 1? Would Mark ‘Goldenballs’ Dowdall be capable of continuing his rich scoring form? How would Declan Griffin’s new nose cope with the rigors of D1 football? Could veteran Taidgh Simpson’s legs keep motoring for yet another season? The answer was a resounding “yes”.
We started very brightly, passing the ball well and building the play patiently from the back. We created the first chance of the game, Dowdall and Conor ‘Motorboat’ Melvin combining well to draw a fine save from the keeper. On the 15 minute mark (pardon the pun) the aforementioned duo was heavily involved in the creation and scoring of the Pats first goal in the top flight for 7 seasons. Dowdall used his strength to hold off his marker and then slipped Melvin through who broke the offside trap and shot home via a deflection off a Storm defender. It was a fully deserved 1-0 lead for the Pats who continued to dominate possession in the ensuing minutes, pressing Storm back into their half with some quality football.
However, as the legs grew weary in the baking sun and the previous night’s exertions began to catch up on some of the Pats, the pace and rhythm of our game dropped as Storm came back into the contest. We had to defend some dangerous set-pieces and were lucky on a couple of occasions that the ball didn’t drop kindly for waiting Storm attackers. The game became scrappy as mistakes became more frequent and there were stoppages aplenty as the home side moaned incessantly at the ref, who admittedly, was awful. With Storm on top and applying the pressure as the half wore on, it was a relieved Pats side that made it to the half time break one goal to the good.
The message at half time was simple; keep possession, increase the intensity and grab a second goal. It was even stevens for the most of the second half with both sides giving their all in a bid to claim the upper hand. While passing the ball reasonably well, there wasn’t enough pace or zip in our game to open up the Storm defense, who looked comfortable in dealing with our best efforts. At the other end the Pats backline, marshaled by the excellent Murphy, was also coping admirably with Storm’s advances, Griffin rarely being tested. In this tight arm wrestle it was going to take something special to unlock a defense and it was last year’s division 2 MVP and golden boot winner, GoldenBalls Dowdall who provided it. Flynn did the donkey work, dispossessing a Storm defender and releasing Dowdall down the right flank. The speedster still had a lot of work to do, taking on his man at pace before unleashing an unstoppable strike across the keeper and into the net. 2-0 and Pats in the driving seat with 20 minutes left on the clock.
The clever thing to do at this stage would have been to hold possession and run down the clock but a combination of fatigue and what seemed like a lack of confidence infected the Pats for the rest of the game. In a bid to play it safe and not get caught in possession we began to revert to the long ball game of seasons passed and in doing so handed the initiative back to the Storm. They took advantage of a huge slice of fortune on 80 minutes when Melvin was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box and a penalty was called. Despite Griffin’s best efforts the peno was converted and we were all set for a nervy finish. As Storm pushed high looking to salvage a point, we hit them on the break and really should have wrapped the tie up but some poor decision making at vital times let us down. Hearts were very much in mouths when, at the death, Griffin had to react wonderfully to keep out a close range header and finally win all three points for the Pats.
This was a very satisfying win from the Pats who are aware that there is lots of improvement to be made if we are to have a successful season. As opening day fixtures go however, everyone involved can be proud of their efforts. Next up are friends and rivals Seoul Celtic, in what should be another closely fought encounter.
Goalscorers: Melvin (Dowdall assist)
Dowdall (Flynn assist)
Weekly Awards
Goal of the game: Dowdall’s second half strike was a cracker.
Save of the game: Griffindor saved our bacon at the end with a terrific reaction save, capping off his most assured performance in a Pats shirt to date.
The ‘I Thought it was Saturday’ Award. Timmy Simpson seemed to have had a bad case of amnesia when he launched a Gaelic Football style shoulder charge at an unsuspecting Korean lad in the first half. The only thing more ridiculous then the challenge was his protestation of innocence.
Motorboating Mess Award: Conor Melvin
Bromance Award: Padraic ‘ I swear I didn’t do it’ Cummane and Brian ‘The Wolf’ Howley
Round 1 Big Boy Award: Conor Melvin (points total still not decided)
Spring Season Game 6
Cheongju 1-5 St Pats
Cheongju Crushed By Clinical Pats
Not many teams relish the trip to Cheongju. An arduous journey, a referee renowned for his home town bias, and a somewhat unpredictable opposition have made this a very challenging tie in the past, and the Pats were wary of a Cheongju ambush. As it turned out, the trip down was indeed arduous, and the referee was everything we feared he would be, but, the opposition was easily accounted for.
When in this form, there isn’t a team in the division that can come close to the Pats. Despite a bright opening few minutes when they dominated possession, the home side’s tendency to lose the ball in dangerous positions was brutally punished by the Pats, and in particular, Dowdall. Twice in the opening 10 minutes the league’s top scorer capitalized on defensive howlers, speeding away to coolly dispatch the ball to the net and give the Pats a somewhat fortunate two goal lead. With a two goal comfort blanket and the pressure off, the Pats played some fantastic possession football for the rest of the half, running the Cheongju players ragged. Melvin added number three when he volleyed home Cummane’s cross and Gilbey got the fourth just before half-time, his feeble effort being met with an even feebler attempt of a save by the Cheongju goalkeeper. 4 nil at the break and the Pats were in cruise control.
The start of the second half was scrappy as Cheongju picked up the pace and the Pats lost our way a little bit. The referee wasn’t helping matters by behaving somewhat parochially and it was from a dubious free kick that Cheongju pulled a goal back. At the other end, Shane ‘The Ginger Pele’ Kelly did superbly to ‘win’ a penalty that somehow wasn’t given and we missed a few chances to get our fifth. The reintroduction of Machin seemed to steady the ship and eventually we got back into our passing groove again, creating chances at will and moving the ball superbly across the park with Creegan and Scully running the show from the centre of the park. It was Dowdall who grabbed our fifth, and his hat-trick, with another sublime goal. We missed several opportunities to add to our total as the game petered out to its inevitable conclusion; another three points and a resounding victory on the road for the Pats.
Man of the match: A great all round team performance with special mention to Machin, Creegan, Scully, Gilbey, the Prof and of course, hat trick hero Dowdall.
When in this form, there isn’t a team in the division that can come close to the Pats. Despite a bright opening few minutes when they dominated possession, the home side’s tendency to lose the ball in dangerous positions was brutally punished by the Pats, and in particular, Dowdall. Twice in the opening 10 minutes the league’s top scorer capitalized on defensive howlers, speeding away to coolly dispatch the ball to the net and give the Pats a somewhat fortunate two goal lead. With a two goal comfort blanket and the pressure off, the Pats played some fantastic possession football for the rest of the half, running the Cheongju players ragged. Melvin added number three when he volleyed home Cummane’s cross and Gilbey got the fourth just before half-time, his feeble effort being met with an even feebler attempt of a save by the Cheongju goalkeeper. 4 nil at the break and the Pats were in cruise control.
The start of the second half was scrappy as Cheongju picked up the pace and the Pats lost our way a little bit. The referee wasn’t helping matters by behaving somewhat parochially and it was from a dubious free kick that Cheongju pulled a goal back. At the other end, Shane ‘The Ginger Pele’ Kelly did superbly to ‘win’ a penalty that somehow wasn’t given and we missed a few chances to get our fifth. The reintroduction of Machin seemed to steady the ship and eventually we got back into our passing groove again, creating chances at will and moving the ball superbly across the park with Creegan and Scully running the show from the centre of the park. It was Dowdall who grabbed our fifth, and his hat-trick, with another sublime goal. We missed several opportunities to add to our total as the game petered out to its inevitable conclusion; another three points and a resounding victory on the road for the Pats.
Man of the match: A great all round team performance with special mention to Machin, Creegan, Scully, Gilbey, the Prof and of course, hat trick hero Dowdall.
Spring Season game 5
St. Patrick's FC 4-0 Osan FC
Pats sparkle in the Sun
Division 2 newcomers Osan FC made the long trek north to Sahmyook for game 5 of the spring season, hoping to end the Pats unbeaten run and put themselves in a position for promotion. On a beautiful day for football they came up against a Pats side in no mood for compromise as the black and white army powered their way to an emphatic victory.
Our cause was helped no end by the return of O Ruadhain and Hamon to the line-up for the first time since the opening day of the season and with Machin anchoring the defense in place of the injured Simpson, the Pats side had a very solid look to it. We started superbly, passing the ball well and using the full width of the pristine Sahmyook playing surface. Cummane and Hamon on the right flank were benefitting most from Scully and O Ruadhain’s domination of the engine room and it was no surprise that many of our early chances were manufactured from this area.
The opening goal, when it came, had more than a slice of luck about it, deputy Osan goalkeeper Tom ‘The Catch’ Gaughaun fumbling a harmless looking header and goal poacher supreme Dowdall was on hand to tap the ball into an empty net. There was nothing lucky about the second goal which followed soon after, Hamon’s delightful cross volleyed to the net by the razor sharp Dowdall for his second. We lost our shape a little coming up to half-time and had to depend on a fine save from Artimus to keep our two goal lead intact.
We realized that the third goal of the game would be crucial and we started the second half far better than we finished the first, scoring from the kick-off. A great passing movement through the middle culminated in a nice turn and powerful left foot finish from our very own Korean Heskey, Bruce ‘Picasso’ Jhon. At 3 nil we were completely on top and began to play some very attractive football. Taylor got on the end of Cummane’s cross to make it 4-0, and Howley, Dowdall (twice) and Melvin all had opportunities to add to our tally near the end as Osan gave up the ghost completely.
A timely return to form for the Pats and there is now real daylight between ourselves and the chasing pack as we edge towards the second half of the season.
Our cause was helped no end by the return of O Ruadhain and Hamon to the line-up for the first time since the opening day of the season and with Machin anchoring the defense in place of the injured Simpson, the Pats side had a very solid look to it. We started superbly, passing the ball well and using the full width of the pristine Sahmyook playing surface. Cummane and Hamon on the right flank were benefitting most from Scully and O Ruadhain’s domination of the engine room and it was no surprise that many of our early chances were manufactured from this area.
The opening goal, when it came, had more than a slice of luck about it, deputy Osan goalkeeper Tom ‘The Catch’ Gaughaun fumbling a harmless looking header and goal poacher supreme Dowdall was on hand to tap the ball into an empty net. There was nothing lucky about the second goal which followed soon after, Hamon’s delightful cross volleyed to the net by the razor sharp Dowdall for his second. We lost our shape a little coming up to half-time and had to depend on a fine save from Artimus to keep our two goal lead intact.
We realized that the third goal of the game would be crucial and we started the second half far better than we finished the first, scoring from the kick-off. A great passing movement through the middle culminated in a nice turn and powerful left foot finish from our very own Korean Heskey, Bruce ‘Picasso’ Jhon. At 3 nil we were completely on top and began to play some very attractive football. Taylor got on the end of Cummane’s cross to make it 4-0, and Howley, Dowdall (twice) and Melvin all had opportunities to add to our tally near the end as Osan gave up the ghost completely.
A timely return to form for the Pats and there is now real daylight between ourselves and the chasing pack as we edge towards the second half of the season.
Spring Season Game 4
Bundang 1-St Pats 2
Scully can’t believe he’s such a lucky bitch as Creegan’s Pats steal three points at the Death
It was hardly vintage stuff from the Pats, and won’t be going down in anyone’s recollections as a classic, but the end result is all that matters and another three points keeps us sitting pretty at the top of the table, our 100% record fully intact. It wasn’t looking promising as time ticked away at the end of a scrappy second half but the Pats summoned one last effort to grab the win. A move which began deep in our own half culminated in the outstanding Scully firing home a dramatic winner with only 3 minutes left on the clock. It was tough luck on Bundang, who will feel that they did enough to merit a point, but football, just like Jon Machin’s treatment of Rich Taylor, can be cruel.
Kick-off was delayed in bizarre circumstances as the balls went missing following the warm-up. Thankfully, after much confusion and consternation, Pats assistant manager and all-round local hero, Darragh Creegan, located them and we were ready to begin. We started the brighter of the two sides and tried to play some decent football into what was a very strong wind. The opener was a well-worked team goal. Dowdall released Cummane down the right flank and the full back’s pin-point cross was steered home by the inrushing Peter Petrelli, scoring his first ever goal for the Pats. As the half wore on, it became clear that what Bundang were lacking in attacking guile they made up for in defensive strength and very few chances were created by either side. The closest we came was when Creegan stole in at the back post like a thief in the night to meet Browne’s corner and was very unlucky to see his effort cleared off the line.
There were buckets of sweat and effort on show in the second half but little in the way of clear-cut opportunities to enthuse the neutrals, had there been any present. Indeed the second half was more notable for Jhon’s tendency to fall over at every available opportunity, Jon ‘Mad Dog’ Machin’s spaz attack, Peter Petrelli’s hair, Creegan continuously robbing the opposition of possession (and their possessions). Amidst all this tedium, Bundang nabbed a scrappy equalizer from what was their only real chance of the game and Taylor and Jhon received a tongue-lashing from Machin for playing tiddlywinks on the athletic track. The stage was set for a boring score draw before Scully popped up to avail of Petrelli and Dowdall’s approach work and fire home a late, dramatic winner which keeps the Pats on course for a return to Division 1.
Next up is the top of the table clash with Osan City, let’s hope for more of the same.
Goal of the game: Late winning goals are always a thing of beauty and Scully’s was no different. Petrelli did all the hard work, gliding forcefully into the Bundang half before releasing Dowdall, who in turn teed up Scully. The rest, as they say, is history.
Pass of the game: Seeing as how this humble scribe usually only gets credited with own–goals and the concession of penalties, this week I’m giving the best pass prize to myself, for my deliciously appetizing cross to create Pat’s opener. Yes, the keeper should have caught it and maybe the defender should have cleared it but what’s seldom is beautiful. I’ll take it.
Big Boy Award: For coming to the game dressed like a wealthy Korean gangster, Bruce ‘Big Boy’ Jhon walks away with the award this week. It was suggested that if Jhon wore the suit while playing, it might encourage him to stay on his feet a little more often. Food for thought.
The OMG award: Melvin’s hair. “Make me look like a lanky 14 year old German soldier” is what he said and he got his wish.
Lost and Found: Pats number 2 Darragh Creegan has asked me to announce that he is now running a lost and found office from his apartment in Bomun. Anyone who has lost any valuables is free to visit the office where they can get their goods returned for a nominal fee.
Pensions for Jisan: Rich has also asked me to let you all know that he’s hard on the case booking a pension for the Jisan Music Festival. He wishes to reassure all of you who will be heart-broken, gutted and dismayed if he fails, that he is trying his very best not to let you all down, having promised over two months ago that he would sort it out. In Rich we trust.
Kick-off was delayed in bizarre circumstances as the balls went missing following the warm-up. Thankfully, after much confusion and consternation, Pats assistant manager and all-round local hero, Darragh Creegan, located them and we were ready to begin. We started the brighter of the two sides and tried to play some decent football into what was a very strong wind. The opener was a well-worked team goal. Dowdall released Cummane down the right flank and the full back’s pin-point cross was steered home by the inrushing Peter Petrelli, scoring his first ever goal for the Pats. As the half wore on, it became clear that what Bundang were lacking in attacking guile they made up for in defensive strength and very few chances were created by either side. The closest we came was when Creegan stole in at the back post like a thief in the night to meet Browne’s corner and was very unlucky to see his effort cleared off the line.
There were buckets of sweat and effort on show in the second half but little in the way of clear-cut opportunities to enthuse the neutrals, had there been any present. Indeed the second half was more notable for Jhon’s tendency to fall over at every available opportunity, Jon ‘Mad Dog’ Machin’s spaz attack, Peter Petrelli’s hair, Creegan continuously robbing the opposition of possession (and their possessions). Amidst all this tedium, Bundang nabbed a scrappy equalizer from what was their only real chance of the game and Taylor and Jhon received a tongue-lashing from Machin for playing tiddlywinks on the athletic track. The stage was set for a boring score draw before Scully popped up to avail of Petrelli and Dowdall’s approach work and fire home a late, dramatic winner which keeps the Pats on course for a return to Division 1.
Next up is the top of the table clash with Osan City, let’s hope for more of the same.
Goal of the game: Late winning goals are always a thing of beauty and Scully’s was no different. Petrelli did all the hard work, gliding forcefully into the Bundang half before releasing Dowdall, who in turn teed up Scully. The rest, as they say, is history.
Pass of the game: Seeing as how this humble scribe usually only gets credited with own–goals and the concession of penalties, this week I’m giving the best pass prize to myself, for my deliciously appetizing cross to create Pat’s opener. Yes, the keeper should have caught it and maybe the defender should have cleared it but what’s seldom is beautiful. I’ll take it.
Big Boy Award: For coming to the game dressed like a wealthy Korean gangster, Bruce ‘Big Boy’ Jhon walks away with the award this week. It was suggested that if Jhon wore the suit while playing, it might encourage him to stay on his feet a little more often. Food for thought.
The OMG award: Melvin’s hair. “Make me look like a lanky 14 year old German soldier” is what he said and he got his wish.
Lost and Found: Pats number 2 Darragh Creegan has asked me to announce that he is now running a lost and found office from his apartment in Bomun. Anyone who has lost any valuables is free to visit the office where they can get their goods returned for a nominal fee.
Pensions for Jisan: Rich has also asked me to let you all know that he’s hard on the case booking a pension for the Jisan Music Festival. He wishes to reassure all of you who will be heart-broken, gutted and dismayed if he fails, that he is trying his very best not to let you all down, having promised over two months ago that he would sort it out. In Rich we trust.
Spring Season Game 3
Anyang 3-4 St Pats
"Wolfman rescues nervy Pats"
As Mark Dowdall raced clear of the Anyang defense and blasted the ball into the roof of the net to make it 3-0 with hardly 35 minutes elapsed, one could have been forgiven for thinking that this was going to be another landslide victory for the free scoring Pats. One could certainly not have envisaged that a mere 40 minutes of game time later, the scores would be tied and the three points very much up for grabs. Luckily for the Pats, Brian ‘The Wolfman’ Howley popped up exactly on the 70 minute mark with the all important winner which sent us to the top of the table and kept our 100% record intact.
If truth be told, the early 3 nil lead was flattering to a Pats team which had failed to replicate the smooth, free flowing football of previous weeks. Despite bringing bundles of pace and energy to the contest, we were let down on too many occasions by a poor touch, bad decision making and misplaced passes. The pace of the game was frenetic and devoid of any rhythm or structure, with neither side keeping the ball for long enough to impose their will on proceedings. It was Anyang who almost broke the deadlock when they manufactured a one on one situation, but Griffin kept his cool and saved brilliantly at the foot of the striker. The home side were punished further just minutes later when Murphy was upended in the box and Browne coolly dispatched his second penalty in as many weeks. The second followed soon after when we robbed Anyang of possession at the back and Dowdall sped clear before applying a clinical finish.
The tie continued to be evenly matched as both teams went in search of the all important third goal, and it was that man Dowdall who displayed terrific pace, strength and finishing ability to latch onto Machin’s pass and score with aplomb. Game, set and match? That should have been the clincher, but a mix up between Scully and Machin on the edge of the box afforded Anyang a rare scoring opportunity and an excellent strike reduced the gap to 2, just before the break.
Ah, the life of a goalkeeper. Having been a virtual spectator in the previous games and having joyfully participated in 9 holes of pub golf on Saturday, it was fully understandable that Griffindor may have been a tad on the rusty side as it approached 10am on a chilly Sunday night at Sahmyook. The big Kerryman resembled an aging bachelor in the bog footing turf as he struggled in vain to bend his creaking back to pick up a harmless shot that was slowly drifting wide. The end result was a monumental fuck up of the Art ‘I’m so hungover’ Oogjen variety, as Griffin eventually took down the striker in the box, conceding the penalty which made it 3-2.
The Pats had strong penalty claims of our own turned down soon after in almost identical circumstances when Jhon’s persistence resulted in him gaining possession of a ball that he had no right to win. Big Boy Bruce did everything right, rounding the keeper and setting himself up to knock the ball into an empty net, only to mysteriously fall over at the vital stage, screaming for a penalty. The referee was having none of it, and Jhon was left to curse his diving technique; if only he had studied Murphy’s form more closely.
The game was still frantic and panicky, with the Pats having resorted to the kick and chase game of yesteryear and Anyang huffing and puffing without creating anything of note. It was fitting that the equalizer would come from a set-piece. A half cleared corner was met with a fine strike on the edge of the box, Griffin very unlucky to see the ball spin off the top of his gloves and into the net. 3-3 and it was anyone’s game.
Howley is one of those players who has the wonderful knack of getting himself into good scoring positions. Luckily, he had exhausted his entire season’s worth of misses the week previously against Bundang, and when the opportunity arose this time around, he made no mistake. The Pats breathed a collective sigh of relief when the Mayo dynamo again ghosted into the box undetected on the 70 minute mark, atoning for Machin’s ineptitude with a sweet half volley to open his account for the season at the most opportune of times. The initiative was back with the Pats and we had 20 minutes to hold on for victory.
Whether it was the fact that we relaxed a little more, or Anyang got tired, but we finally began to play some decent football again following the lead goal. We held possession well, controlled the pace of the game and should have wrapped it up before the end. Melvin showed some delightful footwork at times and Dick Taylor illuminated the night with a cross straight from the David Beckham book of right footed gems, but we failed to add to our tally before the referee blew the final whistle on what was another fine win for the Pats.
Top of the table with three played following a clash where we showed we had the bottle for a battle, and where we displayed the necessary work rate and desire to pull through even when not playing particularly well. Even tougher tests await, but for now, all is still rosy in Eddie’s garden.
Goal of the Game: Howley’s winner was timed to perfection, but for sheer dramatic effect, Dowdall’s second goal gets the gong this week. A perfectly weighted pass, strong, direct running and an emphatic finish all combined to make this goal one for the scrapbook.
Pass of the game: When Taylor received possession in space on the right flank, his footballing brain was in overdrive. He cleverly spotted a gap in the home side’s defense and called for his colleague Melvin to run through it. Just as his Pats teammates expected to see the ball slice past the corner flag or land over the terrace, Taylor delivered a splendid inviting cross to the inrushing Melvin who was very unlucky not to nab his first goal of the season. A moment of real quality from Taylor who hopefully can replicate this form as the season continues.
Man of the Match: Anyang simply couldn’t handle Dowdalls’s pace all afternoon as the lightning fast striker burned his marker time and time again. It was Dowdall who scored two all important goals and also sent in the cross for Howley’s winner. It must be said however, that it is baffling how a man who leaves defenders trailing in his wake every Sunday can’t seem to shake off the attentions of a certain burly Irish girl every Saturday night. Is she really that good of a man-marker?? Sign her up for the gaels…..
Special mention must also go to Simpson, who was outstanding at the back.
Glasses for the Gaffer?: Following on from Creegs’ blind spot and Murphy having a go at the wind, this week it was the gaffer’s turn to blame outside influences, as he lay the blame for several misplaced passes squarely on the lights. He didn’t specify if they were too bright, or perhaps not bright enough, but they were clearly at fault. Tune in next week, when Griffin blames a howler on the ozone layer and Gilbey blames an inanimate carbon rod for him behaving like a psycho for the second week running.
Well wishes: Bad news on the injury front as Murphy looks to have copped a season ending ankle injury, and Tiger struggles to overcome a knee problem. The two lads have been in outstanding form thus far this season and will be badly missed. Get well soon champs.
However, the most serious injury of all concerns Pats prodigal son, Jonny Machin, who has officially become the youngest person in living memory to contract gout, an infectious tissue-rotting disease of the foot, usually reserved for 70-something year old alcoholic bums. We would ask for your prayers at this time as John struggles to deal with this health issue, and hopefully we shall see him on the pitch again soon.
If truth be told, the early 3 nil lead was flattering to a Pats team which had failed to replicate the smooth, free flowing football of previous weeks. Despite bringing bundles of pace and energy to the contest, we were let down on too many occasions by a poor touch, bad decision making and misplaced passes. The pace of the game was frenetic and devoid of any rhythm or structure, with neither side keeping the ball for long enough to impose their will on proceedings. It was Anyang who almost broke the deadlock when they manufactured a one on one situation, but Griffin kept his cool and saved brilliantly at the foot of the striker. The home side were punished further just minutes later when Murphy was upended in the box and Browne coolly dispatched his second penalty in as many weeks. The second followed soon after when we robbed Anyang of possession at the back and Dowdall sped clear before applying a clinical finish.
The tie continued to be evenly matched as both teams went in search of the all important third goal, and it was that man Dowdall who displayed terrific pace, strength and finishing ability to latch onto Machin’s pass and score with aplomb. Game, set and match? That should have been the clincher, but a mix up between Scully and Machin on the edge of the box afforded Anyang a rare scoring opportunity and an excellent strike reduced the gap to 2, just before the break.
Ah, the life of a goalkeeper. Having been a virtual spectator in the previous games and having joyfully participated in 9 holes of pub golf on Saturday, it was fully understandable that Griffindor may have been a tad on the rusty side as it approached 10am on a chilly Sunday night at Sahmyook. The big Kerryman resembled an aging bachelor in the bog footing turf as he struggled in vain to bend his creaking back to pick up a harmless shot that was slowly drifting wide. The end result was a monumental fuck up of the Art ‘I’m so hungover’ Oogjen variety, as Griffin eventually took down the striker in the box, conceding the penalty which made it 3-2.
The Pats had strong penalty claims of our own turned down soon after in almost identical circumstances when Jhon’s persistence resulted in him gaining possession of a ball that he had no right to win. Big Boy Bruce did everything right, rounding the keeper and setting himself up to knock the ball into an empty net, only to mysteriously fall over at the vital stage, screaming for a penalty. The referee was having none of it, and Jhon was left to curse his diving technique; if only he had studied Murphy’s form more closely.
The game was still frantic and panicky, with the Pats having resorted to the kick and chase game of yesteryear and Anyang huffing and puffing without creating anything of note. It was fitting that the equalizer would come from a set-piece. A half cleared corner was met with a fine strike on the edge of the box, Griffin very unlucky to see the ball spin off the top of his gloves and into the net. 3-3 and it was anyone’s game.
Howley is one of those players who has the wonderful knack of getting himself into good scoring positions. Luckily, he had exhausted his entire season’s worth of misses the week previously against Bundang, and when the opportunity arose this time around, he made no mistake. The Pats breathed a collective sigh of relief when the Mayo dynamo again ghosted into the box undetected on the 70 minute mark, atoning for Machin’s ineptitude with a sweet half volley to open his account for the season at the most opportune of times. The initiative was back with the Pats and we had 20 minutes to hold on for victory.
Whether it was the fact that we relaxed a little more, or Anyang got tired, but we finally began to play some decent football again following the lead goal. We held possession well, controlled the pace of the game and should have wrapped it up before the end. Melvin showed some delightful footwork at times and Dick Taylor illuminated the night with a cross straight from the David Beckham book of right footed gems, but we failed to add to our tally before the referee blew the final whistle on what was another fine win for the Pats.
Top of the table with three played following a clash where we showed we had the bottle for a battle, and where we displayed the necessary work rate and desire to pull through even when not playing particularly well. Even tougher tests await, but for now, all is still rosy in Eddie’s garden.
Goal of the Game: Howley’s winner was timed to perfection, but for sheer dramatic effect, Dowdall’s second goal gets the gong this week. A perfectly weighted pass, strong, direct running and an emphatic finish all combined to make this goal one for the scrapbook.
Pass of the game: When Taylor received possession in space on the right flank, his footballing brain was in overdrive. He cleverly spotted a gap in the home side’s defense and called for his colleague Melvin to run through it. Just as his Pats teammates expected to see the ball slice past the corner flag or land over the terrace, Taylor delivered a splendid inviting cross to the inrushing Melvin who was very unlucky not to nab his first goal of the season. A moment of real quality from Taylor who hopefully can replicate this form as the season continues.
Man of the Match: Anyang simply couldn’t handle Dowdalls’s pace all afternoon as the lightning fast striker burned his marker time and time again. It was Dowdall who scored two all important goals and also sent in the cross for Howley’s winner. It must be said however, that it is baffling how a man who leaves defenders trailing in his wake every Sunday can’t seem to shake off the attentions of a certain burly Irish girl every Saturday night. Is she really that good of a man-marker?? Sign her up for the gaels…..
Special mention must also go to Simpson, who was outstanding at the back.
Glasses for the Gaffer?: Following on from Creegs’ blind spot and Murphy having a go at the wind, this week it was the gaffer’s turn to blame outside influences, as he lay the blame for several misplaced passes squarely on the lights. He didn’t specify if they were too bright, or perhaps not bright enough, but they were clearly at fault. Tune in next week, when Griffin blames a howler on the ozone layer and Gilbey blames an inanimate carbon rod for him behaving like a psycho for the second week running.
Well wishes: Bad news on the injury front as Murphy looks to have copped a season ending ankle injury, and Tiger struggles to overcome a knee problem. The two lads have been in outstanding form thus far this season and will be badly missed. Get well soon champs.
However, the most serious injury of all concerns Pats prodigal son, Jonny Machin, who has officially become the youngest person in living memory to contract gout, an infectious tissue-rotting disease of the foot, usually reserved for 70-something year old alcoholic bums. We would ask for your prayers at this time as John struggles to deal with this health issue, and hopefully we shall see him on the pitch again soon.
Spring Season 2012 Game 2
St Pats 5-0 Bundang
This had all the hallmarks of a potential banana skin. A three week lay-off during which the most frenetic physical activity that occurred was Howley Balboa taking on bouncers and Taylor falling on every pavement in Itaewon, meant that many of the Pats were wary of being caught cold by an unpredictable Bundang side. As it turned out, one need not have worried.
It transpired that some of the Bundang lads hadn’t fancied the long and arduous trip to the remote northern outpost of Soyosan on a Sunday afternoon, and the game began with 11 V 9. To make matters worse for Bundang, Pats were ready and hungry and determined to quickly finish the game as a contest, pushing hard from the first minute to make our numerical advantage count. Bundang were pushed back into their own box for the entirety of the first half, as the Pats passed the ball around with pace and purpose. We should have taken the lead after less than a minute but Taylor was denied by a fine save and the rebound was somehow scrambled to safety. It was to become a recurring theme for the half. Time after time we opened the away side’s defense up with some attractive approach play, only for the final pass to go astray and the chance to go abegging.
One couldn’t fault the work rate or the desire of the Pats side in the first half, as we totally over ran our undermanned opposition (playing with 10 men since the 20 minute mark), but just couldn’t put the ball in the back of the net. Scully and Murphy were completely dominant in the engine room, with Taylor and Browne and both full backs providing lots of support in attack. Howley was showing well in attack, while there was an encouraging first appearance of the season for Melvin, (on for the injured Dowdall, who had disappeared off the pitch just as quickly as he vanishes from Hollywoods when it’s his round) Alas, there was to be no first half goal, and one couldn’t shake the feeling that it may just be ‘one of those days’.
Football is a funny old game. Within 10 minutes of the restart we were three to the good and cruising. As is often the case in games like these, a scrappy scrambled goal is the catalyst needed for the floodgates to open, and Tiger’s opener certainly falls into the aforementioned category. Browne’s cross should have been punched away by the keeper, but Jhon used every inch of his muscular Mongolian frame to break the ball from the keeper. In the ensuing scramble, Tiger prodded the ball towards the goal, but the defender standing on the line was in a prime position to clear. Somehow, he seemed to trip himself up and the ball trickled into the net, much to the delight of the relieved Pats. Almost immediately after, Murphy was upended in the box (he didn’t half make a meal of it) and the gaffer slotted away the resulting penalty. Things were well and truly wrapped up a few minutes later when Murphy strode through and released Tiger who finished under the goalkeeper for number three. Done and dusted.
As Batman is to Gotham and Josh Militz is to woman-kind, Shaun McSherry is a Pat’s hero. The big Norn Iron man took a break from smashing rocks with his bare hands on the nearby mountain to set up the fourth, and best, goal of the game. His defense splitting pass released the now miraculously recovered Dowdall, and the in-form Pats striker showed a clean pair of heels, a deft touch and terrific composure to go around the keeper and slot the ball into an empty net. Big Mac went one better before the end, cutting inside on his right foot and unleashing a fine strike that slipped under the keeper for number 5.
2 played, 13 for, 0 against so far for the Pats, and another positive performance from all involved. While a comfortable win was the minimum requirement against depleted opposition, the work rate and desire shown by everyone was commendable. As for Bundang, they will have better days, and will be a different proposition in 2 weeks time at Sahmyook University.
Man of the Match: Another tough call this week, with Murphy getting the official gong in Hollywoods afterwards, as talk of world domination was flowing following a few pints. Scully was again outstanding as Murphy’s midfield partner, with Tiger deserving of an honorable mention for his two goals, albeit none of which will feature on his ‘best of’ collection when he hangs up his boots.
Goal of the game: Dowdall is looking sharp, hungry and focused, and these attributes were clearly in evidence when he latched onto Shezza’s through ball to grab the Pat’s fourth.
Pantomine Villian of the week: Darragh Creegan has never starred in the Christmas panto, but he had his very own “He’s Behind You”. “ Oh, no he’s not!” “Oh, YES he is” moment on Sunday when he failed to spot the 5’10” striker standing next to him as he dallied in possession on the edge of his own box, almost costing the Pats their perfect defensive record. He rightly admonished Cummane for having the audacity to presume his central defensive colleague wasn’t blind, and then had a pop at Murphy for his suspect communication skills. Murphy took the novel approach of blaming the wind for Creegs not hearing the call, which was slightly ironic seeing as how it had failed to drown out his moaning for the 70 minutes previously. Big boy problems, that’s all.
The Swan Lake Award: He would look shit in a tutu, but Murphy’s elegant and graceful leap over a defender’s leg to win the penalty would have brought the house down in a theatre in Paris. Great technique, superb posture, and just the right amount of femininity would have earned his performance a standing ovation in front of the appropriate audience. Bravo chap, bravo.
Photographers
Special thanks to Sean and Tiger for all the wonderful snaps on Sunday. It was long overdue. Good job lads
It transpired that some of the Bundang lads hadn’t fancied the long and arduous trip to the remote northern outpost of Soyosan on a Sunday afternoon, and the game began with 11 V 9. To make matters worse for Bundang, Pats were ready and hungry and determined to quickly finish the game as a contest, pushing hard from the first minute to make our numerical advantage count. Bundang were pushed back into their own box for the entirety of the first half, as the Pats passed the ball around with pace and purpose. We should have taken the lead after less than a minute but Taylor was denied by a fine save and the rebound was somehow scrambled to safety. It was to become a recurring theme for the half. Time after time we opened the away side’s defense up with some attractive approach play, only for the final pass to go astray and the chance to go abegging.
One couldn’t fault the work rate or the desire of the Pats side in the first half, as we totally over ran our undermanned opposition (playing with 10 men since the 20 minute mark), but just couldn’t put the ball in the back of the net. Scully and Murphy were completely dominant in the engine room, with Taylor and Browne and both full backs providing lots of support in attack. Howley was showing well in attack, while there was an encouraging first appearance of the season for Melvin, (on for the injured Dowdall, who had disappeared off the pitch just as quickly as he vanishes from Hollywoods when it’s his round) Alas, there was to be no first half goal, and one couldn’t shake the feeling that it may just be ‘one of those days’.
Football is a funny old game. Within 10 minutes of the restart we were three to the good and cruising. As is often the case in games like these, a scrappy scrambled goal is the catalyst needed for the floodgates to open, and Tiger’s opener certainly falls into the aforementioned category. Browne’s cross should have been punched away by the keeper, but Jhon used every inch of his muscular Mongolian frame to break the ball from the keeper. In the ensuing scramble, Tiger prodded the ball towards the goal, but the defender standing on the line was in a prime position to clear. Somehow, he seemed to trip himself up and the ball trickled into the net, much to the delight of the relieved Pats. Almost immediately after, Murphy was upended in the box (he didn’t half make a meal of it) and the gaffer slotted away the resulting penalty. Things were well and truly wrapped up a few minutes later when Murphy strode through and released Tiger who finished under the goalkeeper for number three. Done and dusted.
As Batman is to Gotham and Josh Militz is to woman-kind, Shaun McSherry is a Pat’s hero. The big Norn Iron man took a break from smashing rocks with his bare hands on the nearby mountain to set up the fourth, and best, goal of the game. His defense splitting pass released the now miraculously recovered Dowdall, and the in-form Pats striker showed a clean pair of heels, a deft touch and terrific composure to go around the keeper and slot the ball into an empty net. Big Mac went one better before the end, cutting inside on his right foot and unleashing a fine strike that slipped under the keeper for number 5.
2 played, 13 for, 0 against so far for the Pats, and another positive performance from all involved. While a comfortable win was the minimum requirement against depleted opposition, the work rate and desire shown by everyone was commendable. As for Bundang, they will have better days, and will be a different proposition in 2 weeks time at Sahmyook University.
Man of the Match: Another tough call this week, with Murphy getting the official gong in Hollywoods afterwards, as talk of world domination was flowing following a few pints. Scully was again outstanding as Murphy’s midfield partner, with Tiger deserving of an honorable mention for his two goals, albeit none of which will feature on his ‘best of’ collection when he hangs up his boots.
Goal of the game: Dowdall is looking sharp, hungry and focused, and these attributes were clearly in evidence when he latched onto Shezza’s through ball to grab the Pat’s fourth.
Pantomine Villian of the week: Darragh Creegan has never starred in the Christmas panto, but he had his very own “He’s Behind You”. “ Oh, no he’s not!” “Oh, YES he is” moment on Sunday when he failed to spot the 5’10” striker standing next to him as he dallied in possession on the edge of his own box, almost costing the Pats their perfect defensive record. He rightly admonished Cummane for having the audacity to presume his central defensive colleague wasn’t blind, and then had a pop at Murphy for his suspect communication skills. Murphy took the novel approach of blaming the wind for Creegs not hearing the call, which was slightly ironic seeing as how it had failed to drown out his moaning for the 70 minutes previously. Big boy problems, that’s all.
The Swan Lake Award: He would look shit in a tutu, but Murphy’s elegant and graceful leap over a defender’s leg to win the penalty would have brought the house down in a theatre in Paris. Great technique, superb posture, and just the right amount of femininity would have earned his performance a standing ovation in front of the appropriate audience. Bravo chap, bravo.
Photographers
Special thanks to Sean and Tiger for all the wonderful snaps on Sunday. It was long overdue. Good job lads
Spring Season 2012 Game 1
Gr-eight-ful Pats smash Da Rok to pieces
Heady times indeed in Pat land. Following an impressive pre-season which claimed two wins and a draw,
including a comfortable 5-1 victory over rivals Seoul Celtic, the Pats were looking to continue their fine
form into the opening tie of the season. The opposition were DA ROK, the location was Yongsan Army
Base, and the result, from around 25 minutes in, was a formality.
In perfect conditions we started very brightly and it soon became apparent that the home side couldn’t
live with the Pats once we started to move the ball quickly and with purpose. Using the width of the
pitch to great effect, we created numerous chances early on, the gaffer coming close with a left footed
strike that just whistled past the post. He went one better soon after when we took a deserved lead.
Dowdall caused consternation in the home
defense and his cheeky back heel set up Browne who unerringly placed the ball in the bottom corner,
thus kick-starting the new regime in fine fashion. James who?
Dowdall’s pre season form has been spectacular but there still remained a cynical element amongst the
Pats who, having witnessed the handsome young Waterford star hit practically everything bar the net
last season (and I mean, everything, photographic evidence provided), still harbored doubts as to his big
game temperament. He answered the critics in resounding style, taking advantage of a ridiculously high
defensive line to break the offside trap and brilliantly bang home his first goal of the season.
With the cat in the sack, to quote the mighty Trap, the Pats continued to play all the football, the game
being completely dictated at this stage by the outstanding Scully and Murphy in the middle of the park.
The good times are certainly rolling for Scully, who has seemingly abandoned his Saturday night virtual
golf/basketball/tennis exhibitions in Hollywoods to concentrate fully on his football duties. Murphy had
an assured debut next to him in the engine room, and with total domination in this area of the park, the
Pats continued to create chances. Another fine move yielded number four, a Da ROK defender knocking
the ball into his own net, under pressure from Taylor.
4-0 at the break.
King Richard. Tricky Dick. Dick Taylor. Call him what you want but the second half belonged to the
Sheffield Sleazer as he nabbed a rare Pats hat-trick. Despite a slow start, when his excellent movement
was let down by a poor first touch, Taylor grew more and more into the game,
providing a valuable outlet for attacks. His first goal was a real striker’s effort, bundling the ball home
from close range after the keeper had spilled Howley’s strike. The second followed soon after when
he broke the home side’s hapless offside trap and finished superbly from outside the box. The Dick
Taylor show was interrupted, only momentarily, by the introduction of the ghost from season’s past,
former manager and Pats pin-up, James Gilbey. The veteran looked every day of his 40 or so years as he
trundled after a through ball in a race with the outrushing goalkeeper, but somehow got there first and
used his trusty left boot to sweep home number 7. He hasn’t gone away you know.
It was fitting that the hat trick hero would round off the day’s scoring, winning and then converting his
own penalty, celebrating with a trademark high pitched giggle, brilliantly recreated by the gaffer later on
over a few beers in Hollywoods. The Pats are top of the pile after week 1 but now face a three week lay-
off at the worst possible time. Stiffer tests will surely await, but for now, the new regime can bask in the
glow of a very satisfying win.
Man of the match
Special mention to Scully and Taylor in what was a great team performance, but for me this week’s man
of the match is Mark Dowdall.
Villian of the week
Taidgh Simpson has again been expressing his suppressed homosexual tendencies, taking them out on
an innocent young soldier in the first half of Sunday’s game. Yes, he was well built, yes, he was rugged,
but trying to take his top off to have a sneaky twist on his nipples was completely out of order.
Goal of the week
Browne, Dowdall and Taylor’s second were all great goals and worthy of the goal of the week award. For
the imagination in the build up, the gong goes to Browne for his strike which opened the scoring.
Lookalike
Many Pats players were bemused before kick off to notice the striking similarity between Pats legend
James Gilbey, and young newcomer, Professor Kieran Gardiner. It was evidently noticeable before the
game, and even more so during it with the players both displaying very similar mannerisms and physical
features. The question remains, has Gilbey ever been to Ireland, and if so, did he visit rural Mayo around
25 years ago??? The awful, disturbing truth, is out there.
Paddy Power
Mark Dowdall to not score again this season 7/1
Sean Cummane to not be seen again until next May
4.5/1
James Gilbey to be Kieran Gardiners biological father
11/2
Heady times indeed in Pat land. Following an impressive pre-season which claimed two wins and a draw,
including a comfortable 5-1 victory over rivals Seoul Celtic, the Pats were looking to continue their fine
form into the opening tie of the season. The opposition were DA ROK, the location was Yongsan Army
Base, and the result, from around 25 minutes in, was a formality.
In perfect conditions we started very brightly and it soon became apparent that the home side couldn’t
live with the Pats once we started to move the ball quickly and with purpose. Using the width of the
pitch to great effect, we created numerous chances early on, the gaffer coming close with a left footed
strike that just whistled past the post. He went one better soon after when we took a deserved lead.
Dowdall caused consternation in the home
defense and his cheeky back heel set up Browne who unerringly placed the ball in the bottom corner,
thus kick-starting the new regime in fine fashion. James who?
Dowdall’s pre season form has been spectacular but there still remained a cynical element amongst the
Pats who, having witnessed the handsome young Waterford star hit practically everything bar the net
last season (and I mean, everything, photographic evidence provided), still harbored doubts as to his big
game temperament. He answered the critics in resounding style, taking advantage of a ridiculously high
defensive line to break the offside trap and brilliantly bang home his first goal of the season.
With the cat in the sack, to quote the mighty Trap, the Pats continued to play all the football, the game
being completely dictated at this stage by the outstanding Scully and Murphy in the middle of the park.
The good times are certainly rolling for Scully, who has seemingly abandoned his Saturday night virtual
golf/basketball/tennis exhibitions in Hollywoods to concentrate fully on his football duties. Murphy had
an assured debut next to him in the engine room, and with total domination in this area of the park, the
Pats continued to create chances. Another fine move yielded number four, a Da ROK defender knocking
the ball into his own net, under pressure from Taylor.
4-0 at the break.
King Richard. Tricky Dick. Dick Taylor. Call him what you want but the second half belonged to the
Sheffield Sleazer as he nabbed a rare Pats hat-trick. Despite a slow start, when his excellent movement
was let down by a poor first touch, Taylor grew more and more into the game,
providing a valuable outlet for attacks. His first goal was a real striker’s effort, bundling the ball home
from close range after the keeper had spilled Howley’s strike. The second followed soon after when
he broke the home side’s hapless offside trap and finished superbly from outside the box. The Dick
Taylor show was interrupted, only momentarily, by the introduction of the ghost from season’s past,
former manager and Pats pin-up, James Gilbey. The veteran looked every day of his 40 or so years as he
trundled after a through ball in a race with the outrushing goalkeeper, but somehow got there first and
used his trusty left boot to sweep home number 7. He hasn’t gone away you know.
It was fitting that the hat trick hero would round off the day’s scoring, winning and then converting his
own penalty, celebrating with a trademark high pitched giggle, brilliantly recreated by the gaffer later on
over a few beers in Hollywoods. The Pats are top of the pile after week 1 but now face a three week lay-
off at the worst possible time. Stiffer tests will surely await, but for now, the new regime can bask in the
glow of a very satisfying win.
Man of the match
Special mention to Scully and Taylor in what was a great team performance, but for me this week’s man
of the match is Mark Dowdall.
Villian of the week
Taidgh Simpson has again been expressing his suppressed homosexual tendencies, taking them out on
an innocent young soldier in the first half of Sunday’s game. Yes, he was well built, yes, he was rugged,
but trying to take his top off to have a sneaky twist on his nipples was completely out of order.
Goal of the week
Browne, Dowdall and Taylor’s second were all great goals and worthy of the goal of the week award. For
the imagination in the build up, the gong goes to Browne for his strike which opened the scoring.
Lookalike
Many Pats players were bemused before kick off to notice the striking similarity between Pats legend
James Gilbey, and young newcomer, Professor Kieran Gardiner. It was evidently noticeable before the
game, and even more so during it with the players both displaying very similar mannerisms and physical
features. The question remains, has Gilbey ever been to Ireland, and if so, did he visit rural Mayo around
25 years ago??? The awful, disturbing truth, is out there.
Paddy Power
Mark Dowdall to not score again this season 7/1
Sean Cummane to not be seen again until next May
4.5/1
James Gilbey to be Kieran Gardiners biological father
11/2
Game 5 Fall Season 2011 - Seoul Storm 4 -3 St. Pat's
Brave fightback not enough for Pats as losing streak continues
The tight confines of Singu Elementary School was the location for game 5 of the Fall season, Pats looking to break a two game losing run against a new look Seoul United. James Gilbey displayed no signs of stress in the warm up despite recent media speculation linking Declan Flynn with his managerial position and it was a strong Pats eleven that took the field, despite the absence of midfield general Hamon and impact sub Jon Machin.
It was evident early on however that collectively we weren’t at the races and we paid for this laissez faire attitude by going two goals down with hardly five minutes of the game elapsed, both goals coming from defensive errors. Simpson was the culprit for the first, losing possession on the edge of his own box to the most dangerous player on the pitch, and the United striker thanked the Pats defender by blasting the ball into the top corner. A few minutes later it was his central defensive partner Cummane who gifted the opposition possession, and again we were ruthlessly punished with another screaming strike from all of 30 yards that left Art clutching at air in the Pats goal. For a team comprised mostly of teachers, the Pats are not the quickest bunch to learn a lesson and twice more we gave the ball away while trying to be too clever in defence, but luckily on both occasions United couldn’t finish.
The back page hacks and conspiracy theorists were having a field day as Declan Flynn rode into Apbujeong on his white steed and proceeded to organize and direct the Pats from the sideline, his assertive manner and positive attitude galvanizing the Pats. It was evident that United were extremely uncomfortable under the direct ball and with Hansen using his long throw to good effect, we began to exert some serious pressure on the United defence. Bruce Jhon was now in the action and playing like a man possessed, eager to repay the faith that Flynn had showed in him. However as we began to get on top we were hit with a sucker punch, Cummane deflecting a long range shot past a wrong footed Art. 3-0 and apparently it was game over but nobody told the Pats who stuck manfully to their task and continued to dictate the pace of the game. We forced numerous corners and had the home side pinned back in their box, grabbing a lifeline when Seung Jin showed a great strikers instinct to turn smartly in the box and guide his strike past the custodian. If this gave us a glimmer of hope, we were right back in it soon after when Jhon did superbly to set up Howley whose shot somehow evaded the keeper and rolled into the net. 3-2 at half time and all to play for.
With former Big Boy Dick Taylor now on the pitch dazzling the United defense with his freshly manicured face and the soft scented aroma of cucumber, we started brightly and had United in all kinds of difficulty, especially from set-pieces. An equalizer seemed inevitable but when it arrived there was a definite sense of good fortune about it, the United defenders getting in a muddle and scoring a comical own goal. We were well on top at this stage, and had a number of chances to go ahead. Hansen blazed over from 12 yards and then Browne was unlucky to see his free kick whistle past the left hand post. The downside of our dominance was that as we pushed up we left space in behind for the very dangerous United attack to exploit, and it took a desperate goal line clearance from Robinson and excellent goal keeping from Art to keep the scores tied. It was anyone’s game to win at this stage, but unfortunately for the Pats, the all decisive seventh goal was scored by the men in the yellow, a thumping header leaving Art with no chance. There was no time for a reply and despite a valiant effort, the Pats had lost a third game on the trot, the first time this has happened to the club since relegation from the top flight four seasons ago. These are worrying times indeed for the Pats who on this form could well be sucked into a relegation dogfight.
Man of the match: Bruce Jhon was the undoubted man of the match for the Pats, putting in one of his best ever performances in an all action display.
Goal of the Game: Three of United’s goals were finishes of the highest quality, the pick of the bunch probably being the second.
Save of the game: Late on with the game tied at 3-3, Art spread his bulky frame admirably to deny United danger man Cisse the winning goal.
Is Gilbey a Goner??
The Pats Board have come out unanimously to offer their full support to beleaguered manager James Gilbey, whose position has come under intense scrutiny following his sides worst run of form in over four seasons. Recent media speculation has linked current player and former manager, Declan Flynn, with a return to the hot seat as the Pats board desperately try to avoid being dragged into an unforeseen relegation battle. The manager’s precarious position wasn’t helped by Flynn’s strange absence and then miraculous late appearance last Sunday, the Kerryman helping to inspire the pats comeback from the sideline. Neither Gilbey nor Flynn were available for comment last night but club sources have revealed that despite their public backing of the current incumbent, the Pats Board are seriously debating whether or not the iconic white feather has what it takes to arrest this alarming slide in form.
The tight confines of Singu Elementary School was the location for game 5 of the Fall season, Pats looking to break a two game losing run against a new look Seoul United. James Gilbey displayed no signs of stress in the warm up despite recent media speculation linking Declan Flynn with his managerial position and it was a strong Pats eleven that took the field, despite the absence of midfield general Hamon and impact sub Jon Machin.
It was evident early on however that collectively we weren’t at the races and we paid for this laissez faire attitude by going two goals down with hardly five minutes of the game elapsed, both goals coming from defensive errors. Simpson was the culprit for the first, losing possession on the edge of his own box to the most dangerous player on the pitch, and the United striker thanked the Pats defender by blasting the ball into the top corner. A few minutes later it was his central defensive partner Cummane who gifted the opposition possession, and again we were ruthlessly punished with another screaming strike from all of 30 yards that left Art clutching at air in the Pats goal. For a team comprised mostly of teachers, the Pats are not the quickest bunch to learn a lesson and twice more we gave the ball away while trying to be too clever in defence, but luckily on both occasions United couldn’t finish.
The back page hacks and conspiracy theorists were having a field day as Declan Flynn rode into Apbujeong on his white steed and proceeded to organize and direct the Pats from the sideline, his assertive manner and positive attitude galvanizing the Pats. It was evident that United were extremely uncomfortable under the direct ball and with Hansen using his long throw to good effect, we began to exert some serious pressure on the United defence. Bruce Jhon was now in the action and playing like a man possessed, eager to repay the faith that Flynn had showed in him. However as we began to get on top we were hit with a sucker punch, Cummane deflecting a long range shot past a wrong footed Art. 3-0 and apparently it was game over but nobody told the Pats who stuck manfully to their task and continued to dictate the pace of the game. We forced numerous corners and had the home side pinned back in their box, grabbing a lifeline when Seung Jin showed a great strikers instinct to turn smartly in the box and guide his strike past the custodian. If this gave us a glimmer of hope, we were right back in it soon after when Jhon did superbly to set up Howley whose shot somehow evaded the keeper and rolled into the net. 3-2 at half time and all to play for.
With former Big Boy Dick Taylor now on the pitch dazzling the United defense with his freshly manicured face and the soft scented aroma of cucumber, we started brightly and had United in all kinds of difficulty, especially from set-pieces. An equalizer seemed inevitable but when it arrived there was a definite sense of good fortune about it, the United defenders getting in a muddle and scoring a comical own goal. We were well on top at this stage, and had a number of chances to go ahead. Hansen blazed over from 12 yards and then Browne was unlucky to see his free kick whistle past the left hand post. The downside of our dominance was that as we pushed up we left space in behind for the very dangerous United attack to exploit, and it took a desperate goal line clearance from Robinson and excellent goal keeping from Art to keep the scores tied. It was anyone’s game to win at this stage, but unfortunately for the Pats, the all decisive seventh goal was scored by the men in the yellow, a thumping header leaving Art with no chance. There was no time for a reply and despite a valiant effort, the Pats had lost a third game on the trot, the first time this has happened to the club since relegation from the top flight four seasons ago. These are worrying times indeed for the Pats who on this form could well be sucked into a relegation dogfight.
Man of the match: Bruce Jhon was the undoubted man of the match for the Pats, putting in one of his best ever performances in an all action display.
Goal of the Game: Three of United’s goals were finishes of the highest quality, the pick of the bunch probably being the second.
Save of the game: Late on with the game tied at 3-3, Art spread his bulky frame admirably to deny United danger man Cisse the winning goal.
Is Gilbey a Goner??
The Pats Board have come out unanimously to offer their full support to beleaguered manager James Gilbey, whose position has come under intense scrutiny following his sides worst run of form in over four seasons. Recent media speculation has linked current player and former manager, Declan Flynn, with a return to the hot seat as the Pats board desperately try to avoid being dragged into an unforeseen relegation battle. The manager’s precarious position wasn’t helped by Flynn’s strange absence and then miraculous late appearance last Sunday, the Kerryman helping to inspire the pats comeback from the sideline. Neither Gilbey nor Flynn were available for comment last night but club sources have revealed that despite their public backing of the current incumbent, the Pats Board are seriously debating whether or not the iconic white feather has what it takes to arrest this alarming slide in form.
Game 4 Fall Season 2011 - Seocho Crew 3 -2 St. Pat's
A Gilbey belly flop and a Hamon free kick looked to have nabbed 10 man Pats a share of the spoils, but a last minute strike saw an impressive Seocho side grab a deserved win.
Game 3 Fall Season 2011 - St. Pat's 0 - 3 Seoul Storm
Not much to say here.
Game 2 Fall Season 2011 - Da-ROK 1-4 St Pats
Gilbey breaks his duck in comfortable Pats win
The Pats made the short trip to Yongsan Army Base on Sunday last aiming to build on an impressive opening day victory against Cheongu. Our opposition, Da-Rok, have proven to be a tricky opponent over the past few seasons and we knew we would have to perform well to take all three points.
To both sides dismay, the game was played on the small pitch, its miniature dimensions and rock hard surface meaning that passing football was always going to difficult. Despite this, we started well and were the better side in the opening quarter. We took an early lead when Hamon curled a beautiful free kick over the wall and into the net, although he was undoubtedly helped by some less than impressive goal keeping from the home custodian. We doubled our advantage soon after when Seung Jin flicked on Robinson’s throw and McSherry took advantage of some more hesitant defending to head the ball past the stranded keeper. Having found ourselves 2 to the good without extending ourselves whatsoever, some sloppiness crept into our play, and we gifted Da-Rok a couple of opportunities which Art bravely smothered, diving at the feet of the opposing strikers on two occasions to thwart the danger. At the other end we had numerous chances to wrap the game up, Howley drawing a fine save from the keeper in a one-on-one situation and Creegan drawing a good stop from the side netting in a one-on- empty net situation. Another notable feature of the first half was the poor mental and physical condition of Pats veteran Jon Machin, who appears to be struggling to cope with his new four day college schedule.
We started the second half in determined fashion and again missed a few chances to finish the game as a contest. As is often the case in these situations, we were meant to pay for our profligacy in front of goals when Da-Rok equalized with a goal out of nothing. A long ball forward should have been meat and veg for centre half Cummane, but his aerial woes continued as he directed a defensive header backwards into the path of the Da-Rok striker, who coolly lobbed Art to bring the home side back into the game. With the game back in the melting pot Da-Rok grew in confidence, taking advantage of a fatigued Machin to get on top around the middle third. They almost equalized from a corner, but Cummane was on hand to clear off the line and atone for his earlier mishap. We continued to miss chance after chance in attack, Cregan was very unlucky to see his shot scream past the post after great approach work, while McSherry almost nabbed his third in two games, but saw his effort heroically cleared off the line by a Da-Rok defender.
As the Pats became more and more nervous, our savior came in the unlikely form of player-coach James Gilbey, who took advantage of a very generous offside call from the referee to bundle home what will probably go down as the scrappiest goal in Pats history. The goal may have been of questionable standard but the celebration was anything but, the Pat’s very own white feather combining the patented Gilbey tumble roll with some Wild West pistol action in an impressive performance that didn’t go unnoticed by his adoring fans. With the pressure off we began to play the ball around the park with ease once more, being helped no end by Machin’s demotion to the bench. We hammered the final nail in our opponents coffin when Seung Jin finished expertly, beating the keeper at his near post with a sweet strike. 4-1 at the long whistle as the Pats maintained a 100% record.
Man of the Match: A number of Pats players were in the frame for man of the match but Robinson gets the gong for a great shift at right full back.
Goal of the game: The goalkeeping may not have been of the highest standard, but Hamon still gets the nod this week for his free kick which opened the scoring for the Pats.
Save of the game: Art saved us on two occasions in the first half, quickly prancing off his line like the premier show pony that he is to deny Da-Rok a scoring opportunity.
Miss of the Game: Cregan worked hard to earn this award, with any one of a number of misses being in contention. However his side footed effort into the side net when an open goal beckoned was the pick of the bunch.
Week 1 Fall Season 2001 - St. Pat's 2 -1 Cheongju
Return of the Mac sees Pats off to a Flyer - St. Pat's 2 -1 Cheongju
The fall 2011 season kicked off in impressive fashion for the Pats at Sahmyook University with a hard earned victory over a strong Cheongu side. Having tied twice last season against the same opposition we knew that it was going to be a tight affair and thus it proved to be, Pats coming from behind to take the spoils by the odd goal in three.
With several established players unavailable for various reasons, the strength of the Pats panel was going to be tested in the searing heat, and full credit must go to all concerned for grabbing the whole three points. In the absence of Art, Gilbey started himself in goals with Robinson, Cummane, Mumford and Kelly lining up across the back. The highly anticipated return of Pats legend McSherry saw the big Norn Iron man handed a starting berth on the right wing, with Hansen and Scully in the centre and Creegan providing width on the left. Dowdall made his Pats debut up front, partnering Hamon in a dangerous looking attacking unit.
Both sides started well and were determined to play passing football. As expected, there were signs of rustiness from both sides in the early stages but the standard improved considerably as the game went on. Both defenses were on top in the opening quarter and it was somewhat out of nothing that the visitors took the lead when the Cheongu midfielder sprung the Pats offside trap and finished calmly past Gilbey. We recovered quickly from this setback and with the fresh legs of Flynn, Williams, Bruce, Seung Jin and the new look Rich Taylor on the pitch we began to play some good football. We got our just rewards when a lightning quick counter attack resulted in Dowdall having a strike from 20 yards, his screamer taking a slight deflection off a defender on route to rattling the net, giving the keeper no chance. The scores remained deadlocked at the short whistle and it was all to play for in the second 45.
Gilbey couldn’t wake up from his half-time nap in time to take his place between the sticks, Robinson being handed the gloves for the second period. Both sides had half chances to take the lead but it was left to Pats talismanic hero, the mercurial McSherry, to break the deadlock. There didn’t appear to be any danger when Hansen prepared to take a long throw into the Cheongu box, but a lung bursting run from the lanky legend created an opportunity, Shezza using every inch of his telescopic legs to get on the end of Hansen’s pin-point throw and direct the ball past the bemused custodian. After an underwhelming pre-season during which some of the less experienced Pats players had called into question his greatness, this was the perfect riposte from the Catholic Casanova. Cheongu upped the ante in a bid to get back in the game and Robinson was relieved to see the striker drag the ball across the goal mouth when played through one on one. We were a little stretched at this stage with several players feeling the effects of the burning sun but being unable to sub off because Gilbey had gone for ice-cream. Bruce Jhon was reveling in being the second coolest Korean for the day due to the absence of Tiger, YD, Kwan Su, Dan and Ben Min, and some aggressive and direct play from him created opportunities for Dowdall and Hamon, who came agonizingly close to wrapping it up with a third goal. We were almost made to pay the ultimate price when a poor offside call from the referee allowed Cheongu a scoring opportunity, however Robinson made a fantastic save and the magical McSherry cleared the resulting rebound off the line to further cement his place in Pats folklore, and win all three points for Pats in the process.
Weekly Awards
Man of the Match: Having performed so well as a unit it’s difficult to pick a man of the match award but special mention must go the outstanding Kelly at full back, Scully in the engine room and Dowdall up front, who terrorized the Cheongu defense with his pace all afternoon.
Absolute Legend Award: Shaun McSherry’s return to competitive action was as dramatic as all the hype had suggested it would be. Despite shipping a little criticism for his pre-season performances, McSherry was unperturbed and went about his business in his usual calm and classy manner, nabbing the winning goal and saving the Pats with a goal line clearance near the end. When quizzed about his pre-season performances, the bashful hero simply shrugged his shoulders and said, “Shaun McSherry doesn’t do friendlies.” Indeed.
Goal of the Game: Dowdall’s first goal for the Pats was a special strike coming at the end of a rapier like counter-attack. A great way to kick-start the season and with Melvin to return in a couple of weeks, perhaps this season we won’t be relying on Bamboo to make our goals scored column look acceptable.
The fall 2011 season kicked off in impressive fashion for the Pats at Sahmyook University with a hard earned victory over a strong Cheongu side. Having tied twice last season against the same opposition we knew that it was going to be a tight affair and thus it proved to be, Pats coming from behind to take the spoils by the odd goal in three.
With several established players unavailable for various reasons, the strength of the Pats panel was going to be tested in the searing heat, and full credit must go to all concerned for grabbing the whole three points. In the absence of Art, Gilbey started himself in goals with Robinson, Cummane, Mumford and Kelly lining up across the back. The highly anticipated return of Pats legend McSherry saw the big Norn Iron man handed a starting berth on the right wing, with Hansen and Scully in the centre and Creegan providing width on the left. Dowdall made his Pats debut up front, partnering Hamon in a dangerous looking attacking unit.
Both sides started well and were determined to play passing football. As expected, there were signs of rustiness from both sides in the early stages but the standard improved considerably as the game went on. Both defenses were on top in the opening quarter and it was somewhat out of nothing that the visitors took the lead when the Cheongu midfielder sprung the Pats offside trap and finished calmly past Gilbey. We recovered quickly from this setback and with the fresh legs of Flynn, Williams, Bruce, Seung Jin and the new look Rich Taylor on the pitch we began to play some good football. We got our just rewards when a lightning quick counter attack resulted in Dowdall having a strike from 20 yards, his screamer taking a slight deflection off a defender on route to rattling the net, giving the keeper no chance. The scores remained deadlocked at the short whistle and it was all to play for in the second 45.
Gilbey couldn’t wake up from his half-time nap in time to take his place between the sticks, Robinson being handed the gloves for the second period. Both sides had half chances to take the lead but it was left to Pats talismanic hero, the mercurial McSherry, to break the deadlock. There didn’t appear to be any danger when Hansen prepared to take a long throw into the Cheongu box, but a lung bursting run from the lanky legend created an opportunity, Shezza using every inch of his telescopic legs to get on the end of Hansen’s pin-point throw and direct the ball past the bemused custodian. After an underwhelming pre-season during which some of the less experienced Pats players had called into question his greatness, this was the perfect riposte from the Catholic Casanova. Cheongu upped the ante in a bid to get back in the game and Robinson was relieved to see the striker drag the ball across the goal mouth when played through one on one. We were a little stretched at this stage with several players feeling the effects of the burning sun but being unable to sub off because Gilbey had gone for ice-cream. Bruce Jhon was reveling in being the second coolest Korean for the day due to the absence of Tiger, YD, Kwan Su, Dan and Ben Min, and some aggressive and direct play from him created opportunities for Dowdall and Hamon, who came agonizingly close to wrapping it up with a third goal. We were almost made to pay the ultimate price when a poor offside call from the referee allowed Cheongu a scoring opportunity, however Robinson made a fantastic save and the magical McSherry cleared the resulting rebound off the line to further cement his place in Pats folklore, and win all three points for Pats in the process.
Weekly Awards
Man of the Match: Having performed so well as a unit it’s difficult to pick a man of the match award but special mention must go the outstanding Kelly at full back, Scully in the engine room and Dowdall up front, who terrorized the Cheongu defense with his pace all afternoon.
Absolute Legend Award: Shaun McSherry’s return to competitive action was as dramatic as all the hype had suggested it would be. Despite shipping a little criticism for his pre-season performances, McSherry was unperturbed and went about his business in his usual calm and classy manner, nabbing the winning goal and saving the Pats with a goal line clearance near the end. When quizzed about his pre-season performances, the bashful hero simply shrugged his shoulders and said, “Shaun McSherry doesn’t do friendlies.” Indeed.
Goal of the Game: Dowdall’s first goal for the Pats was a special strike coming at the end of a rapier like counter-attack. A great way to kick-start the season and with Melvin to return in a couple of weeks, perhaps this season we won’t be relying on Bamboo to make our goals scored column look acceptable.
Pre-season friendly 14-8-2011
St. Pat's 4 Korean team 3
A bedraggled Pat's XI too the pitch at am Sunday in Hoengi, Gangwondo in their last pre-season match before it starts for real next week. Pat's headed off on the trip with ideas of a handy warmup bud ended up in the midst of a 7 goal thriller. Maybe it was the 5 hour bus ride the night before, or the 20-odd pitcher bottles and 60 cans of beer consumed the night before, but this Pat's XI side was lethargic stepping onto the pitch, a condition which continued on throughout the 90 minutes. Before long, Pat's found themselves down 1-0 thanks to a host of chances missed by Shaun McSherry and opportunistic finishing by the opposing team. Pat's weren't aided by an almost laughable attempt at a save by stand-in goalkeeper, Brant Robinson. Pat's recovered quickly however. Apparently unaware of the fast-approaching collective hangover that the previous night's festivities demanded, Declan Flynn made a superb mazy solo run and finsihed with aplomb to level the match at 1-1. Declan and the words "mazy", and indeed "run" don't often appear together, but long-serving Pat's player did a lot to lift the spirits of the team, most beginning to wilt from the burgeoning heat. Especially following a few glaring McSherry misses, Pat's were perhaps slightly unfortunate to walk in for the first break level at 1-1.
Unfortunately the brief respite did nothing to lift Pats' energy levels, and the men in white quickly found themselves 2-1. Centerback Taidgh Simpson seemed to be particularly skilled in cleverly playing in the opposing strikers, whether by direct passes or just simple defensive errors. Indeed, as the rest of the team looked on incredulously, Simpson managed to miss a tackle and make a clumsy attempt at a two footed lunge that surely would have left the player crumpled on the ground for some time. Luckily, true to form, Simpson missed that challenge as well and the tricky Korean winger slotted coolly past stranded debutant Hyun seok. It was only the alert work of Hyun-seok and Shane Kelly that kept Pat's sinking further under the weight of Simpson's errors. Midfield dynamo Jon Machin, looking perhaps older than most on the pitch, had had enough and demanded Pat's defended narrower and tighter, and this together with great work from forwards Seung jin Lee and Mark Dowdall allowed Pat's to look a bit more defensively solid, if deprived of ball possession. Even not-as-young-as-he-once-was Rich Taylor was tracking back, perhaps driven by the realization that he was incapable of kicking the ball on the day. Exactly how bad Taylor was was quite staggering, but perhaps that's a story for another day. Peep, peep, peep went the whistle and though under severe pressure the entire half, the deficit was only one.
After guzzling down any remaining water, Pat's seemed a bit more refreshed. Pat's came out playing the same tactics that had served them so well the last 10 minutes of the previous period, and were quickly rewarded, with Jon hounding the opposing midfielder into passing into Seungj in's path and the aging forward showed he still has a bit of pace in those old legs to push into the penalty box and finish low to the keeper's right. Level at 2-2 Pat's seeming to be growing in confidence, while the opposing team seemed a bit deflated, perhaps due to the by-now oppressive sun. CB Simpson then helped atone for his previous mistakes, stepping in front of the opposing forward to cut out a pass, strode forward, evaded a challenge, played a 1-2 with Seung jin and finally rolled the ball into the net. It truly was a rolling back the years moment for the grizzled veteran, and Pat's were delighted to be up a goal. Manager James Gilbey, playing this 30 minutes in goal, rectified that small problem with a head-scratching roll out to Robinson who, perhaps not expecting the quick restart was pick pocketed near his own penalty area, and just like that it was 3 all. The drama wasn't over, as Robinson then made a marauding run down the left side, took a pass neatly and finished over the keeper to put Pat's ahead once again. There was still time for Shane to put in a horror challenge on an unsuspecting Korean player but the match ended soon after with Pat's relieved to walk away victorious.
Who won the weekend?
There was only ever going to be one winner this weekend, and true to his legend, James Gilbey put in a powerful performance. It all started a bit inauspiciously with the manager, in clear neglect of duties failed to reserve tickets for those players not fortunate enough to be able to take the free van to the pension. It only got worse from there, when having arrived into the pension, James sanctioned beginning the barbecue without the entire team there. When the still-travelling members (two sat on the floor of the bus) mildly protested, Gilbey proceeded to throw what can only be described as the biggest strop ever by someone over the age on 10. Gilbey almost took himself, his son AND his ball home. He was, however, saved further blushes by Brant and it was all smiles and handshakes onces our late arriving heroes finally did arrive at the pension. As the night progressed, Gilbey's star shone brighter and brighter. Perhaps buoyed by his uncharacteristic success at Names of Types of, Gilbey's bubbly self was soon engaged in a series of sweaty topless Greco-Roman style wrestling bouts. It was here Gilbey really came into his own, besting all comers and crowning himself St. Pat's Wresting Champion 2001.
Weeks 9-13 Spring Season 2011
Game 9 Spring Season
2011
Pats 3-Da Rok 1
Excellent performance on base saw the Pats record a comfortable victory over a Da Rok selection on a beautiful evening for football. Hammond made a scoring return, notching all 3 goals in a man of the match performance.
Game 10 Spring Season 2011
Pats 3- Storm 0
A highly enjoyable game of football saw the Pats record a flattering win against a strong Storm side. Despite being under pressure for the opening 45 we went in at the short whistle with the tie still deadlocked, and a much better second half performance saw Seung Jin, Melvin and Bruce get the all important goals to land the Pats all three points.
Game 11
Pats 2- Cheongu 2
An under-strength and rather bedraggled Pats side took to the field with the bare 11 against Cheongu, and were more than a bit fortunate to come away with the point. A combination of desperate defending and a woeful miss right at the death kept Pats in the game. Highlights included Chucks first Pats goal and another Hammond penalty.
Game 12
Seocho 2 Pats 2
An out of sorts Pats side conceded a late equalizer to an impressive Seocho team, who fully deserved to get a point out of the fixture. Melvin opened the scoring for Pats with a great finish, only for Seocho to equalize against the run of play. Eddie Browne blasted home a free kick to put us back in the lead, but the second half performance from the Pats was poor and Seocho threatened on a few occasions before finally drawing level with time almost up.
Game 13
Goal Fest By The Han
The Pats made the short journey to Guil to take on Bamboo on what was a scorching hot Sunday afternoon. We started with a strong side and it became evident from the beginning that we would be far too strong for what was a very under-strength Bamboo side. Starting with 9 players, it took them almost 15 minutes to acquire the full contingent, but at stage it was 3-0 to the pats and the game was over as a contest. With Hamond dictating the game in the centre of the pitch, it was a stroll in the Park for the Pats as we created chances with ease and ended up knocking 15 goals past our hapless opposition.
The highlight of the game was certainly Warren Franklin’s performance when playing in a more advanced role. Caretaker manager Jon Machin, showing the confidence that comes with being a youthful manager, decided to take a gamble and pushed Franklin forward, a move that coach James Gilbey had refused to sanction all season. The results were spectacular. Franklin’s first goal came when he ran onto Jhon’s through ball, his first touch was magnificent as he displayed a neat turn of pace to race away from the defenders before cooly slotting the ball past the helpless keeper. The second goal showed Franklin’s poaching instinct at its very best. Working beside Melvin in a little and large partnership that would surely have seen Pats promoted if it had been implemented sooner, Franklin pounced like a tiger onto Melvin’s flick on, unleashing a stinging left footed half volley that almost tore the net from its riggings. The Canadian Casanova, fresh from his recent marriage proposal, notched his hat trick just moments later, taking advantage of a goalkeeping mistake to roll the ball into an empty net. Breathtaking stuff.
Goal of the week: Any one of Franklin’s screamers could win the goal of the week award, it’s impossible to decide which one.
Miss of the week: No miss of the week award for this game due to James Gilbey’s absence.
Interesting Stat of the week:
Minutes spent on the pitch in attacking positions to goals scored ratio (Spring season 2011)
Gilbey 350 minutes…. 0 goals
Franklin 15 minutes…3 goals
Excellent performance on base saw the Pats record a comfortable victory over a Da Rok selection on a beautiful evening for football. Hammond made a scoring return, notching all 3 goals in a man of the match performance.
Game 10 Spring Season 2011
Pats 3- Storm 0
A highly enjoyable game of football saw the Pats record a flattering win against a strong Storm side. Despite being under pressure for the opening 45 we went in at the short whistle with the tie still deadlocked, and a much better second half performance saw Seung Jin, Melvin and Bruce get the all important goals to land the Pats all three points.
Game 11
Pats 2- Cheongu 2
An under-strength and rather bedraggled Pats side took to the field with the bare 11 against Cheongu, and were more than a bit fortunate to come away with the point. A combination of desperate defending and a woeful miss right at the death kept Pats in the game. Highlights included Chucks first Pats goal and another Hammond penalty.
Game 12
Seocho 2 Pats 2
An out of sorts Pats side conceded a late equalizer to an impressive Seocho team, who fully deserved to get a point out of the fixture. Melvin opened the scoring for Pats with a great finish, only for Seocho to equalize against the run of play. Eddie Browne blasted home a free kick to put us back in the lead, but the second half performance from the Pats was poor and Seocho threatened on a few occasions before finally drawing level with time almost up.
Game 13
Goal Fest By The Han
The Pats made the short journey to Guil to take on Bamboo on what was a scorching hot Sunday afternoon. We started with a strong side and it became evident from the beginning that we would be far too strong for what was a very under-strength Bamboo side. Starting with 9 players, it took them almost 15 minutes to acquire the full contingent, but at stage it was 3-0 to the pats and the game was over as a contest. With Hamond dictating the game in the centre of the pitch, it was a stroll in the Park for the Pats as we created chances with ease and ended up knocking 15 goals past our hapless opposition.
The highlight of the game was certainly Warren Franklin’s performance when playing in a more advanced role. Caretaker manager Jon Machin, showing the confidence that comes with being a youthful manager, decided to take a gamble and pushed Franklin forward, a move that coach James Gilbey had refused to sanction all season. The results were spectacular. Franklin’s first goal came when he ran onto Jhon’s through ball, his first touch was magnificent as he displayed a neat turn of pace to race away from the defenders before cooly slotting the ball past the helpless keeper. The second goal showed Franklin’s poaching instinct at its very best. Working beside Melvin in a little and large partnership that would surely have seen Pats promoted if it had been implemented sooner, Franklin pounced like a tiger onto Melvin’s flick on, unleashing a stinging left footed half volley that almost tore the net from its riggings. The Canadian Casanova, fresh from his recent marriage proposal, notched his hat trick just moments later, taking advantage of a goalkeeping mistake to roll the ball into an empty net. Breathtaking stuff.
Goal of the week: Any one of Franklin’s screamers could win the goal of the week award, it’s impossible to decide which one.
Miss of the week: No miss of the week award for this game due to James Gilbey’s absence.
Interesting Stat of the week:
Minutes spent on the pitch in attacking positions to goals scored ratio (Spring season 2011)
Gilbey 350 minutes…. 0 goals
Franklin 15 minutes…3 goals
Game 8 Spring Season 2011
Pats brought back down to earth by Harriers
After basking in the warm fuzzy glow of the Celtic game for 7 days, the Pats returned to league duty against a Harriers side who were enjoying life near the top of table. There is never much in the difference whenever Harriers and Pats clash, and this occasion was no different. With Machin and Hammond on the treatment table, Simpson arriving late, Taylor AWOL and Brian ‘Supergrass’ Howley in the Witness Protection Program, manager James Gilbey reshuffled the line-up as we aimed to win the 3 points that would keep the pressure on the teams above us.
It was apparent from an early stage however that the collective jager-bombing in Seoul Pub until the early hours was having an effect psychologically as we failed to settle for most of the first half. Unlike the previous week when we were first to every ball, on this occasion it was more often than not a Harriers player who won the 50-50 challenge and we were on the back foot from the off. Although Mumford was impressing at centre-half, collectively our defense was all at sea from set pieces and Harriers could have scored twice from set-plays before they actually managed to break the deadlock, the goal scored by none other than Pats centre-half Padraic Cummane who is fast becoming the Richard Dunne of the SSFl, with 4 own goals in less than 2 years to his credit. To our credit we did get better as the half progressed and we dominated the last 20 minutes of the half, creating some good chances against a porous Harriers defense, the best of which fell to Melvin who headed just over after some terrific build up play by O Ruadhain.
Unfortunately we didn’t start the second half with the same purpose as we finished the first and continued to make basic, unforced errors which killed any chance we had of putting the opposition defense under pressure. Harriers weren’t looking overly threatening at this stage either, but they doubled their lead with a quality goal, the striker finishing a precise move with a crisp strike past Art, although again question marks must be asked of the Pats defense. As is often the case in these situations, Harriers begin to sit back on their lead, handing the initiative back to the Pats. Finally we began to play to our potential, and with the impressive Browne, O Ruadhain and Melvin to the fore, we began to finally put the Harriers defense under some sustained pressure. The breakthrough when Melvin got on the end of Cummane’s long pass and knocked the ball past the advancing keeper to put us right back in the game with 20 left on the clock. It was all Pats at this stage, Simpson had a glorious opportunity to grab the equalizer but headed over with the goal at his mercy, a number of Pats players just failed to get on the end of Flynn’s beautifully weighted free-kick, while Bruce ‘Itaewon Freedom’ Jhon was unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when he was bundled over in the box. Right at the death, Mumford made a nuisance of himself in the Harriers box but Creegan just couldn’t stretch far enough to get a solid connection on the veteran’s flick on and with that, our last chance for parity was gone.
This was a very disappointing performance from the Pats who paid the price for a lacklustre attitude in the first half. By the time we got the finger out we were two goals in arrears and against a quality side like the Harriers it was always going to be difficult to pull it back. Next week we play DA-ROK in what is sure to be another tough game.
Goal of the week: A tie this week between Melvin’s strike and the Harriers second goal. The Pats Cyclops displayed great pace, awareness and most surprisingly, vision, to get in behind the defense and lob the stranded custodian.
After basking in the warm fuzzy glow of the Celtic game for 7 days, the Pats returned to league duty against a Harriers side who were enjoying life near the top of table. There is never much in the difference whenever Harriers and Pats clash, and this occasion was no different. With Machin and Hammond on the treatment table, Simpson arriving late, Taylor AWOL and Brian ‘Supergrass’ Howley in the Witness Protection Program, manager James Gilbey reshuffled the line-up as we aimed to win the 3 points that would keep the pressure on the teams above us.
It was apparent from an early stage however that the collective jager-bombing in Seoul Pub until the early hours was having an effect psychologically as we failed to settle for most of the first half. Unlike the previous week when we were first to every ball, on this occasion it was more often than not a Harriers player who won the 50-50 challenge and we were on the back foot from the off. Although Mumford was impressing at centre-half, collectively our defense was all at sea from set pieces and Harriers could have scored twice from set-plays before they actually managed to break the deadlock, the goal scored by none other than Pats centre-half Padraic Cummane who is fast becoming the Richard Dunne of the SSFl, with 4 own goals in less than 2 years to his credit. To our credit we did get better as the half progressed and we dominated the last 20 minutes of the half, creating some good chances against a porous Harriers defense, the best of which fell to Melvin who headed just over after some terrific build up play by O Ruadhain.
Unfortunately we didn’t start the second half with the same purpose as we finished the first and continued to make basic, unforced errors which killed any chance we had of putting the opposition defense under pressure. Harriers weren’t looking overly threatening at this stage either, but they doubled their lead with a quality goal, the striker finishing a precise move with a crisp strike past Art, although again question marks must be asked of the Pats defense. As is often the case in these situations, Harriers begin to sit back on their lead, handing the initiative back to the Pats. Finally we began to play to our potential, and with the impressive Browne, O Ruadhain and Melvin to the fore, we began to finally put the Harriers defense under some sustained pressure. The breakthrough when Melvin got on the end of Cummane’s long pass and knocked the ball past the advancing keeper to put us right back in the game with 20 left on the clock. It was all Pats at this stage, Simpson had a glorious opportunity to grab the equalizer but headed over with the goal at his mercy, a number of Pats players just failed to get on the end of Flynn’s beautifully weighted free-kick, while Bruce ‘Itaewon Freedom’ Jhon was unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when he was bundled over in the box. Right at the death, Mumford made a nuisance of himself in the Harriers box but Creegan just couldn’t stretch far enough to get a solid connection on the veteran’s flick on and with that, our last chance for parity was gone.
This was a very disappointing performance from the Pats who paid the price for a lacklustre attitude in the first half. By the time we got the finger out we were two goals in arrears and against a quality side like the Harriers it was always going to be difficult to pull it back. Next week we play DA-ROK in what is sure to be another tough game.
Goal of the week: A tie this week between Melvin’s strike and the Harriers second goal. The Pats Cyclops displayed great pace, awareness and most surprisingly, vision, to get in behind the defense and lob the stranded custodian.
Spring Season 2011 Game 7
Tiger roars the loudest as Celtic bite the dust
A windswept and dusty Osan High School was the location for the eagerly anticipated re-match between the Pats and old foes Seoul Celtic. With the general consensus among the Pats being that we hadn’t done ourselves justice in this tie earlier in the year, everyone was determined to put the record straight and inflict a first defeat of the season on the table topping Celts. We started the game very well, dominating the opening twenty minutes and playing some decent passing football on a tricky surface. Flynn and Tiger were bossing the midfield battle early on while Hammond was proving to be a real handful playing in a more advanced position than he is usually accustomed to. We managed to get some decent deliveries into the Celtic box but struggled to create anything meaningful against a physical opposition defense. We were almost punished for our lack of cutting edge when Celtic won a penalty against the run of play, Padraic Cummane unlucky to be penalized for an unintentional handball. However, in a moment that changed the course of the game, Art got down brilliantly to save the spot kick, displaying tremendous agility to palm the ball around the post. It was a save that even the great Kevin Tobin would have been proud of, although many of those watching felt that Tobin may have even managed to avoid the concession of a corner.
It was from a corner that we took the lead. Browne’s floating delivery was flapped at by the Celtic keeper, and, there doing his very best Tony Cascarino impression was Melvin, who stooped low to head the ball into the empty net. This seemed to spark Celtic into life and they upped the ante considerably at this stage. With our tiring legs affording their tricky midfielders a little more space than before, Celtic began to string some passes together and took control of the game. However they found it very difficult to break down a well organized Pats defense where Simpson was outstanding. With Celtic reduced to pot shots from distance, Art was only troubled once, when he beat away a stinging drive just before the half time break.
Celtic started the second half like they had finished the first, pinning us back in our own half and asking serious questions of our defense. However they never looked like scoring, and the longer the game went on the more comfortable we looked. By the 65 minute mark we had weathered the storm and began to create some chances for ourselves. Hammond was very unlucky to see his lob drop just wide off the post, while O Ruadhain and Melvin were looking very dangerous on the break. The all important second goal came from absolutely nothing. There didn’t appear to be much on for Tiger when he was surrounded by Celtic defenders on the edge of the square, but the classy midfielder displayed some terrific skill to work a shooting position and volley to the net past the despairing dive of the Celtic net-minder. The rest of the game saw Celtic pushing lots of men forward but despite a lot of huffing and puffing they couldn’t break down the extremely disciplined Pats side. We had several chances to extend our lead, the best of which fell to Gilbey who somehow managed to hit the crossbar from all of around 8 inches out, following some terrific build up play by O Ruadhain.
Goal of the Week: Tiger’s wonderful individual effort is a contender for goal of the season and one that catapults him into St Pats folklore. It also reinforced his status as the coolest Korean in the club, as even leaving football matters aside, who can compete with that hair?? Watch out in the coming weeks as Bruce Jhon starts experimenting with various styles and fashions in a bid to reclaim the top spot.
Turning Point: To go a goal down having started so well would have been a huge blow to the Pats. Full credits to Art for his outstanding penalty save.
Miss of the week: James Gilbey enters the Pats Hall of Shame with a comical miss that goes in straight in at number 1 on the ‘miss of the season’ chart. It’s an understatement to say that it was easier to score.
Mystery of the week: While Peter Tuohy is the most famous marathon man to come out of Castlebar, the talk in the bars of Itaewon after the game on Sunday was of the Pats very own pocket rocket, Brian ‘The Wolf’ Howley. Howley has continuously been one of the hardest workers on the Pats team, routinely covering every blade of turf on the pitch. This is a source of great amusement for Pats crock Jon Machin who said, “How does Howley keep running when he has existed on a diet of Lotteria and whiskey for the past 10 years? I can’t understand it”. Nobody can.
Interesting Hobby of the Week: Rumors abound around the Pats camp that Gilbey has recently joined a bakery class. The Pats veteran was seen on Sunday last in possession of several bags of cooking flour. It is inevitable when one gets to a certain age that relaxing, less stressful past times are pursued such as croquet, bingo and baking. We look forward to tasting Grandpa Gilbey’s Feshly Baked Scones. You can be sure he’ll always butter the muffins.
Gratitude Award: Many of the Pats players were wondering as to the whereabouts of former Pat’s supremo Joe Trolan on Sunday last. We became quite concerned as the game progressed and there was still no sign of the toothless warrior. We were relieved to discover afterwards that another ex Pats manager had taken it upon himself to protect Joe from the harsh elements and had safely kept him tucked away in his pocket for the duration of the 90 minutes. All of Joe’s teammates and friends would like to present a gratitude award to Declan Flynn for his caring and humanitarian actions. It would appear there are still some good guys left in this cruel, harsh world.
A windswept and dusty Osan High School was the location for the eagerly anticipated re-match between the Pats and old foes Seoul Celtic. With the general consensus among the Pats being that we hadn’t done ourselves justice in this tie earlier in the year, everyone was determined to put the record straight and inflict a first defeat of the season on the table topping Celts. We started the game very well, dominating the opening twenty minutes and playing some decent passing football on a tricky surface. Flynn and Tiger were bossing the midfield battle early on while Hammond was proving to be a real handful playing in a more advanced position than he is usually accustomed to. We managed to get some decent deliveries into the Celtic box but struggled to create anything meaningful against a physical opposition defense. We were almost punished for our lack of cutting edge when Celtic won a penalty against the run of play, Padraic Cummane unlucky to be penalized for an unintentional handball. However, in a moment that changed the course of the game, Art got down brilliantly to save the spot kick, displaying tremendous agility to palm the ball around the post. It was a save that even the great Kevin Tobin would have been proud of, although many of those watching felt that Tobin may have even managed to avoid the concession of a corner.
It was from a corner that we took the lead. Browne’s floating delivery was flapped at by the Celtic keeper, and, there doing his very best Tony Cascarino impression was Melvin, who stooped low to head the ball into the empty net. This seemed to spark Celtic into life and they upped the ante considerably at this stage. With our tiring legs affording their tricky midfielders a little more space than before, Celtic began to string some passes together and took control of the game. However they found it very difficult to break down a well organized Pats defense where Simpson was outstanding. With Celtic reduced to pot shots from distance, Art was only troubled once, when he beat away a stinging drive just before the half time break.
Celtic started the second half like they had finished the first, pinning us back in our own half and asking serious questions of our defense. However they never looked like scoring, and the longer the game went on the more comfortable we looked. By the 65 minute mark we had weathered the storm and began to create some chances for ourselves. Hammond was very unlucky to see his lob drop just wide off the post, while O Ruadhain and Melvin were looking very dangerous on the break. The all important second goal came from absolutely nothing. There didn’t appear to be much on for Tiger when he was surrounded by Celtic defenders on the edge of the square, but the classy midfielder displayed some terrific skill to work a shooting position and volley to the net past the despairing dive of the Celtic net-minder. The rest of the game saw Celtic pushing lots of men forward but despite a lot of huffing and puffing they couldn’t break down the extremely disciplined Pats side. We had several chances to extend our lead, the best of which fell to Gilbey who somehow managed to hit the crossbar from all of around 8 inches out, following some terrific build up play by O Ruadhain.
Goal of the Week: Tiger’s wonderful individual effort is a contender for goal of the season and one that catapults him into St Pats folklore. It also reinforced his status as the coolest Korean in the club, as even leaving football matters aside, who can compete with that hair?? Watch out in the coming weeks as Bruce Jhon starts experimenting with various styles and fashions in a bid to reclaim the top spot.
Turning Point: To go a goal down having started so well would have been a huge blow to the Pats. Full credits to Art for his outstanding penalty save.
Miss of the week: James Gilbey enters the Pats Hall of Shame with a comical miss that goes in straight in at number 1 on the ‘miss of the season’ chart. It’s an understatement to say that it was easier to score.
Mystery of the week: While Peter Tuohy is the most famous marathon man to come out of Castlebar, the talk in the bars of Itaewon after the game on Sunday was of the Pats very own pocket rocket, Brian ‘The Wolf’ Howley. Howley has continuously been one of the hardest workers on the Pats team, routinely covering every blade of turf on the pitch. This is a source of great amusement for Pats crock Jon Machin who said, “How does Howley keep running when he has existed on a diet of Lotteria and whiskey for the past 10 years? I can’t understand it”. Nobody can.
Interesting Hobby of the Week: Rumors abound around the Pats camp that Gilbey has recently joined a bakery class. The Pats veteran was seen on Sunday last in possession of several bags of cooking flour. It is inevitable when one gets to a certain age that relaxing, less stressful past times are pursued such as croquet, bingo and baking. We look forward to tasting Grandpa Gilbey’s Feshly Baked Scones. You can be sure he’ll always butter the muffins.
Gratitude Award: Many of the Pats players were wondering as to the whereabouts of former Pat’s supremo Joe Trolan on Sunday last. We became quite concerned as the game progressed and there was still no sign of the toothless warrior. We were relieved to discover afterwards that another ex Pats manager had taken it upon himself to protect Joe from the harsh elements and had safely kept him tucked away in his pocket for the duration of the 90 minutes. All of Joe’s teammates and friends would like to present a gratitude award to Declan Flynn for his caring and humanitarian actions. It would appear there are still some good guys left in this cruel, harsh world.
Spring Season 2011 Game 5
Pats Leave It Late
Basement dwellers Bamboo FC were the opposition in round 5 as the Pats aimed to continue their recent surge up the table on what was a beautiful day for football. With Simpson suspended and Machin out for a month with ligament damage, there was a start for Mumford in the centre of a re-jigged defense. It was a game which we were hoping to win comfortably, but unsurprisingly we made life very difficult for ourselves from the start.
Whether it was the effects of a big Saturday night, complacency or a lack of respect for the opposition, the Pats started the game in extremely sloppy fashion. Despite having a distinct height and strength advantage over our Vietnamese opponents, we were coming off worse in most of the 50/50 challenges, giving away possession cheaply, and generally playing like a side that wasn’t overly bothered about the result. This carelessness was evident in the opening goal when Padraic Cummane played a nothing ball across his own box which was intercepted by the Bamboo midfielder and slotted past a helpless Art. In spite of this, it was clearly evident that we were a better side than Bamboo, as despite the poor quality of our play, we still managed to create a few decent opportunities. However we went in at half-time deservedly trailing by one.
Manager James Gilbey spoke some harsh words at the break, his rallying call imploring the Pats to play with more heart and determination. He also rang the changes, bringing in Tiger, who was making his Pats debut, and also springing Sean Cummane from the bench. From the outset it looked like a completely different Pats side as we began to move the ball well around the park, creating numerous chances to draw level. With substitute Cummane raiding down the flank and delivering some great crosses, we began to place the Bamboo defense under huge pressure. Howley was reveling in the novelty of not being the smallest man on the pitch for once, and ‘The Wolf’ rose superbly in the box to get his head on another excellent delivery, but the keeper was alert and up to the task. Taylor, Hammond and Melvin all came close before we made the breakthrough when O Ruadhain used his pace to win a penalty, which Hammond expertly converted.
From here it appeared that there would only be one winner, but in what was literally their only attack of the half, Bamboo broke our offside trap, and the little striker showed a neat touch and no little class to give his side the lead once more. We lost our way for a short period after this, the most notable chance falling to Hammond, who somehow, somehow, missed the open goal from all of around 8cm away. The situation wasn’t looking very promising at this stage, but we finally managed to take advantage of a set piece with 8 minutes left on the clock. Ed Big Boy Browne delivered a terrific corner into the danger area and Melvin was on hand to scramble it home. From here on in it was all Pats as we pushed hard for the winner. It was deep in stoppage time when it came. Gilbey managed to find some space on the left wing and with his trusty left peg, he delivered a cross for the unmarked Melvin. The Mayo man showed a lot more composure than his fellow county men have shown in Croke Park over the years to control the ball brilliantly and calmly slot it home past the stranded custodian.
This was a vital win for the Pats against a side who battled hard but who in reality will struggle to get a win this season. It was a warning sign to us also that our attitude has to be right for each encounter, regardless of the opposition. The second half was promising and we will need a repeat of that next week against a confident Seoul Storm.
Best on the day were Browne, Tiger, Sean Cummane and Melvin.
Weekly Awards
Goal of the Week: A close goal between the Vietnamese striker making a total bollocks out of Sean for Bamboo’s second and Melvin’s late winner, but for sheer drama and unbeatable timing, Melvin’s cool, calm and collected finish gets the gong.
Miss of the Week: Hamond somehow managed to overtake both Bruce and Brant in the ‘How the fuck did he miss that’ awards…no mean feat it must be said.
Blooper of the Week : The younger Cummane won’t want to remember the part he played in the game’s opening goal, but luckily it would appear that the memory is quite hazy already.
Celebration of the Week: James Gilbey turned back the clock, with not one, but TWO back-flip somersaults to celebrate Pats late late winner. Kim Yu Na eat your heart out.
Scandal of the Week: As all high profile football teams know, fame and success has a price, and this has become all too evident in the Pats dressing room. With striker Bruce Jhon reportedly in big money talks to make a sequel music video for his massive hit ‘Itaewon Freedom’, another of Pats high profile young members was involved in a nasty spat at a well know Itaewon celebrity hang out after the game. The player, who has recently been seen on tv advertising gaelic games and Johnson Shampoo products, became embroiled in a nasty altercation with a group of women sometime in the early hours of Monday morning. Pat’s manager James Gilbey has refused to comment on the matter, but sources within the club tell us that the head coach has already severely warned his wayward young star as to his future conduct, reportedly advising him to “lay off the back action.”
Basement dwellers Bamboo FC were the opposition in round 5 as the Pats aimed to continue their recent surge up the table on what was a beautiful day for football. With Simpson suspended and Machin out for a month with ligament damage, there was a start for Mumford in the centre of a re-jigged defense. It was a game which we were hoping to win comfortably, but unsurprisingly we made life very difficult for ourselves from the start.
Whether it was the effects of a big Saturday night, complacency or a lack of respect for the opposition, the Pats started the game in extremely sloppy fashion. Despite having a distinct height and strength advantage over our Vietnamese opponents, we were coming off worse in most of the 50/50 challenges, giving away possession cheaply, and generally playing like a side that wasn’t overly bothered about the result. This carelessness was evident in the opening goal when Padraic Cummane played a nothing ball across his own box which was intercepted by the Bamboo midfielder and slotted past a helpless Art. In spite of this, it was clearly evident that we were a better side than Bamboo, as despite the poor quality of our play, we still managed to create a few decent opportunities. However we went in at half-time deservedly trailing by one.
Manager James Gilbey spoke some harsh words at the break, his rallying call imploring the Pats to play with more heart and determination. He also rang the changes, bringing in Tiger, who was making his Pats debut, and also springing Sean Cummane from the bench. From the outset it looked like a completely different Pats side as we began to move the ball well around the park, creating numerous chances to draw level. With substitute Cummane raiding down the flank and delivering some great crosses, we began to place the Bamboo defense under huge pressure. Howley was reveling in the novelty of not being the smallest man on the pitch for once, and ‘The Wolf’ rose superbly in the box to get his head on another excellent delivery, but the keeper was alert and up to the task. Taylor, Hammond and Melvin all came close before we made the breakthrough when O Ruadhain used his pace to win a penalty, which Hammond expertly converted.
From here it appeared that there would only be one winner, but in what was literally their only attack of the half, Bamboo broke our offside trap, and the little striker showed a neat touch and no little class to give his side the lead once more. We lost our way for a short period after this, the most notable chance falling to Hammond, who somehow, somehow, missed the open goal from all of around 8cm away. The situation wasn’t looking very promising at this stage, but we finally managed to take advantage of a set piece with 8 minutes left on the clock. Ed Big Boy Browne delivered a terrific corner into the danger area and Melvin was on hand to scramble it home. From here on in it was all Pats as we pushed hard for the winner. It was deep in stoppage time when it came. Gilbey managed to find some space on the left wing and with his trusty left peg, he delivered a cross for the unmarked Melvin. The Mayo man showed a lot more composure than his fellow county men have shown in Croke Park over the years to control the ball brilliantly and calmly slot it home past the stranded custodian.
This was a vital win for the Pats against a side who battled hard but who in reality will struggle to get a win this season. It was a warning sign to us also that our attitude has to be right for each encounter, regardless of the opposition. The second half was promising and we will need a repeat of that next week against a confident Seoul Storm.
Best on the day were Browne, Tiger, Sean Cummane and Melvin.
Weekly Awards
Goal of the Week: A close goal between the Vietnamese striker making a total bollocks out of Sean for Bamboo’s second and Melvin’s late winner, but for sheer drama and unbeatable timing, Melvin’s cool, calm and collected finish gets the gong.
Miss of the Week: Hamond somehow managed to overtake both Bruce and Brant in the ‘How the fuck did he miss that’ awards…no mean feat it must be said.
Blooper of the Week : The younger Cummane won’t want to remember the part he played in the game’s opening goal, but luckily it would appear that the memory is quite hazy already.
Celebration of the Week: James Gilbey turned back the clock, with not one, but TWO back-flip somersaults to celebrate Pats late late winner. Kim Yu Na eat your heart out.
Scandal of the Week: As all high profile football teams know, fame and success has a price, and this has become all too evident in the Pats dressing room. With striker Bruce Jhon reportedly in big money talks to make a sequel music video for his massive hit ‘Itaewon Freedom’, another of Pats high profile young members was involved in a nasty spat at a well know Itaewon celebrity hang out after the game. The player, who has recently been seen on tv advertising gaelic games and Johnson Shampoo products, became embroiled in a nasty altercation with a group of women sometime in the early hours of Monday morning. Pat’s manager James Gilbey has refused to comment on the matter, but sources within the club tell us that the head coach has already severely warned his wayward young star as to his future conduct, reportedly advising him to “lay off the back action.”
Spring Season 2011 Game 4
Pats Off
The Mark
After a weekend break due to the St Patrick’s day festivities, the Pats resumed league duties away to Seocho in what was a vital clash. We started with a strong starting eleven, Artimus reclaimed his place in goals behind an experienced back four of Franklin, Cummane, Simpson and Williams. Hammond returned from suspension to partner Machin in the engine room, with the width being provided by Taylor and Howley, while we were hoping for goals from the in-form Melvin and his latest strike partner, Creegan.
We started strongly in the search for our first league win of the season, and it was evident from an early stage that we were capable of creating chances against this Seocho defence. We were combining the short and long game to good effect, getting the ball into the danger areas much earlier and with more accuracy than in previous games. We should have taken the lead when from a set piece, Taylor ran onto Hammond’s flick on, but the former’s finish didn’t match his control and he blazed over the crossbar. At the other end, Seocho were looking dangerous, and with midfielders regularly running from deep, they beat the Pats offside trap on a number of occasions. We were let off the hook when a defensive mix-up allowed the Seocho attacker a free strike at goal from close range, but luckily for us he drilled his shot just past the post. This miss was to prove even more costly soon after as the Pats took the lead with a superbly worked goal. A sublime one-two between Melvin and Bruce allowed our Korean Tom Selleck to get in behind a marooned Seocho defence, and when he crossed into the centre, a combination of Melvin and Edward Big Boy Browne managed to steer the ball into the net, for what was quite simply, a true champion’s goal. Having lost Machin to injury, we lost our way a little from here until half-time, and were quite happy to take a breather and regroup at the short whistle.
The second half started positively for the Pats and we doubled our advantage with another excellent goal. Again Melvin was involved; his perfectly weighted pass playing Hammond through. The midfielder still had a lot to do, but held his nerve to smash a low left footed strike past the helpless custodian. Two nil to the Pats and we were in a comfortable position. This all changed soon after however when Simpson received two quick fire yellow cards, and all of a sudden, the game was back in the melting pot again. Manager James Gilbey moved quickly to ring the changes, with Creegan moving back to centre-half and Melvin slotting into midfield. Arguably this was the most impressive part of the game for the Pats, as we displayed a fantastic work ethic and great discipline to keep our goal intact, reducing Seocho to hopeful shots from distance which never troubled Art. We managed to put the result beyond all doubt near the end, when Melvin pounced on the breaking ball, after the keeper could only parry Creegan’s rasping effort.
This was an excellent performance from the Pats as slowly but surely we seem to be developing more cohesion and combinations in our play. We played some terrific football at times and refused to panic when reduced to ten men, with every member of the panel putting in the hard yards to close the opposition players down. All in all, a good day at the office.
Best on the day for the Pats were Creegan, Melvin and of course Browne, who availed of Seocho’s bewildering refusal to position any of their players within 10 metres of him.
Weekly Awards
Goal of the week: Quality goals for the Pats are like buses, you wait a lifetime for one to come along and then you get two at once. The award this week goes to Belvin’s Big Boy Champion Combo strike which opened the scoring for the Pats.
Turning Point: Hammond’s strike gave us the breathing space which became especially vital due to Simpson’s dismissal.
Miss of the Match: Taylor looked all set to open his account for the season when he burst onto a flick in the box, controlled the ball terrifically at pace, picked his spot, looked the keeper in the eye, but then fired over the crossbar with the goal at his mercy
Pussy of the week: Machin’s flimsy challenge on a tiny Korean midfielder should not have seen the big Stoke man cry off injured, but it would appear that BNP members are not as tough as they seem.
News of the Week: With rumours spreading like wildfire around the playing fields, campuses, bars and brothels of North East Asia, it was finally confirmed that Pats talisman and hero, and all round BIG BOY Shaun McSherry will be returning to don the famed black and white in the coming months. The bookies have slashed the odds on Pats for the upcoming fall season, while reports that Seoul Celtic, Bamboo FC and Loco have all withdrawn from next season’s championship have not been confirmed.
After a weekend break due to the St Patrick’s day festivities, the Pats resumed league duties away to Seocho in what was a vital clash. We started with a strong starting eleven, Artimus reclaimed his place in goals behind an experienced back four of Franklin, Cummane, Simpson and Williams. Hammond returned from suspension to partner Machin in the engine room, with the width being provided by Taylor and Howley, while we were hoping for goals from the in-form Melvin and his latest strike partner, Creegan.
We started strongly in the search for our first league win of the season, and it was evident from an early stage that we were capable of creating chances against this Seocho defence. We were combining the short and long game to good effect, getting the ball into the danger areas much earlier and with more accuracy than in previous games. We should have taken the lead when from a set piece, Taylor ran onto Hammond’s flick on, but the former’s finish didn’t match his control and he blazed over the crossbar. At the other end, Seocho were looking dangerous, and with midfielders regularly running from deep, they beat the Pats offside trap on a number of occasions. We were let off the hook when a defensive mix-up allowed the Seocho attacker a free strike at goal from close range, but luckily for us he drilled his shot just past the post. This miss was to prove even more costly soon after as the Pats took the lead with a superbly worked goal. A sublime one-two between Melvin and Bruce allowed our Korean Tom Selleck to get in behind a marooned Seocho defence, and when he crossed into the centre, a combination of Melvin and Edward Big Boy Browne managed to steer the ball into the net, for what was quite simply, a true champion’s goal. Having lost Machin to injury, we lost our way a little from here until half-time, and were quite happy to take a breather and regroup at the short whistle.
The second half started positively for the Pats and we doubled our advantage with another excellent goal. Again Melvin was involved; his perfectly weighted pass playing Hammond through. The midfielder still had a lot to do, but held his nerve to smash a low left footed strike past the helpless custodian. Two nil to the Pats and we were in a comfortable position. This all changed soon after however when Simpson received two quick fire yellow cards, and all of a sudden, the game was back in the melting pot again. Manager James Gilbey moved quickly to ring the changes, with Creegan moving back to centre-half and Melvin slotting into midfield. Arguably this was the most impressive part of the game for the Pats, as we displayed a fantastic work ethic and great discipline to keep our goal intact, reducing Seocho to hopeful shots from distance which never troubled Art. We managed to put the result beyond all doubt near the end, when Melvin pounced on the breaking ball, after the keeper could only parry Creegan’s rasping effort.
This was an excellent performance from the Pats as slowly but surely we seem to be developing more cohesion and combinations in our play. We played some terrific football at times and refused to panic when reduced to ten men, with every member of the panel putting in the hard yards to close the opposition players down. All in all, a good day at the office.
Best on the day for the Pats were Creegan, Melvin and of course Browne, who availed of Seocho’s bewildering refusal to position any of their players within 10 metres of him.
Weekly Awards
Goal of the week: Quality goals for the Pats are like buses, you wait a lifetime for one to come along and then you get two at once. The award this week goes to Belvin’s Big Boy Champion Combo strike which opened the scoring for the Pats.
Turning Point: Hammond’s strike gave us the breathing space which became especially vital due to Simpson’s dismissal.
Miss of the Match: Taylor looked all set to open his account for the season when he burst onto a flick in the box, controlled the ball terrifically at pace, picked his spot, looked the keeper in the eye, but then fired over the crossbar with the goal at his mercy
Pussy of the week: Machin’s flimsy challenge on a tiny Korean midfielder should not have seen the big Stoke man cry off injured, but it would appear that BNP members are not as tough as they seem.
News of the Week: With rumours spreading like wildfire around the playing fields, campuses, bars and brothels of North East Asia, it was finally confirmed that Pats talisman and hero, and all round BIG BOY Shaun McSherry will be returning to don the famed black and white in the coming months. The bookies have slashed the odds on Pats for the upcoming fall season, while reports that Seoul Celtic, Bamboo FC and Loco have all withdrawn from next season’s championship have not been confirmed.
Spring Season 2011 Game 3
Melvin rescues Pats in Dour Draw
A 75th minute goal from striker Conor Melvin saw a lethargic Pats side grab a share of the spoils against DA-ROK on the Yongsan Army Base. Melvin struck from close range after the home side failed to clear from a corner following a sustained period of Pats pressure. It was a point that we deserved having had the lion share of possession over the duration of the 90 minutes, although our first touch and passing seemed to let us down time and time again.
We started with a solid 4-4-2 formation with Flynn getting a surprise start in the middle of the park in place of the suspended Hammond. The large pitch and ideal weather conditions meant that it was a beautiful day for football, but unfortunately the football didn’t match the conditions. Despite a lot of huffing and puffing and a large percentage of possession, too often our final pass, crosses and decision making let us down. We did manage to put together some decent passing movements during the first half, but struggled to get in behind the opposition defence. At the other end the Pats defence was also comfortable, while Seung Jin was confident and commanding between the sticks. I’m sure there were some chances for both sides in the first half but it’s Thursday now and I can’t remember....
We tried to up the tempo in the second period, with Machin trying his best to inject some pace and direction into our play. It worked at times, with O Ruadhain, Browne and especially Melvin looking more threatening. We began to push forward and put pressure on the home defence, but like in the first half, we let DA-ROK off the hook with some awful passing at vital stages. We were punished for our wastefulness when we conceded on ROK counter-attack, the striker nutmegging Simpson before beautifully chipping the ball over a stranded Seung Jin. We were in a precarious situation but dragged ourselves back into the game thanks to the famous Pats grit and work ethic. With Flynn and Machin dominating the midfield battle, we forced a number of corners, almost scoring when Machin saw a half volley cleared off the line. We looked to be fighting a losing battle until Melvin popped up to get his first of the season, a goal that he well and truly deserved after a very industrious performance.
This wasn’t a classic performance by any means, but the work ethic in this Pats side has to be commended yet again. We will no doubt perform much better as the season goes on and hopefully we can start to pick up some points as soon as possible. Best on the day were Seung Jin, Machin and goal-scorer Melvin.
Goal of the Week: This week’s goal could well be a contender for goal of the season, the ROK striker sublimely chipping the ball over a helpless Seung Jin to open the scoring.
Pass of the week: A joint award this week, with any of the beautifully floating crosses that we guided straight into the giant goalkeeper’s hands worthy of the prize.
A 75th minute goal from striker Conor Melvin saw a lethargic Pats side grab a share of the spoils against DA-ROK on the Yongsan Army Base. Melvin struck from close range after the home side failed to clear from a corner following a sustained period of Pats pressure. It was a point that we deserved having had the lion share of possession over the duration of the 90 minutes, although our first touch and passing seemed to let us down time and time again.
We started with a solid 4-4-2 formation with Flynn getting a surprise start in the middle of the park in place of the suspended Hammond. The large pitch and ideal weather conditions meant that it was a beautiful day for football, but unfortunately the football didn’t match the conditions. Despite a lot of huffing and puffing and a large percentage of possession, too often our final pass, crosses and decision making let us down. We did manage to put together some decent passing movements during the first half, but struggled to get in behind the opposition defence. At the other end the Pats defence was also comfortable, while Seung Jin was confident and commanding between the sticks. I’m sure there were some chances for both sides in the first half but it’s Thursday now and I can’t remember....
We tried to up the tempo in the second period, with Machin trying his best to inject some pace and direction into our play. It worked at times, with O Ruadhain, Browne and especially Melvin looking more threatening. We began to push forward and put pressure on the home defence, but like in the first half, we let DA-ROK off the hook with some awful passing at vital stages. We were punished for our wastefulness when we conceded on ROK counter-attack, the striker nutmegging Simpson before beautifully chipping the ball over a stranded Seung Jin. We were in a precarious situation but dragged ourselves back into the game thanks to the famous Pats grit and work ethic. With Flynn and Machin dominating the midfield battle, we forced a number of corners, almost scoring when Machin saw a half volley cleared off the line. We looked to be fighting a losing battle until Melvin popped up to get his first of the season, a goal that he well and truly deserved after a very industrious performance.
This wasn’t a classic performance by any means, but the work ethic in this Pats side has to be commended yet again. We will no doubt perform much better as the season goes on and hopefully we can start to pick up some points as soon as possible. Best on the day were Seung Jin, Machin and goal-scorer Melvin.
Goal of the Week: This week’s goal could well be a contender for goal of the season, the ROK striker sublimely chipping the ball over a helpless Seung Jin to open the scoring.
Pass of the week: A joint award this week, with any of the beautifully floating crosses that we guided straight into the giant goalkeeper’s hands worthy of the prize.
Spring Saeason 2011 Game 2
Celts strike late to deny dogged Pats
After weeks of anticipation and barstool bullshitting around the bars of Itaewon, the
eagerly anticipated derby clash between Pats and Celtic took place in the wide surrounds
of Gwacheon on Sunday last. The Celts, as expected, were hot favourites going into the
game but the Pats were quietly confident of causing a seismic upset against the fallen kings
of Seoul football. Wary of Celtic’s passing ability in the centre of the park we lined up with
Machin, Hammond and Taylor in the middle of midfield, hoping to stifle Celtic’s attacking
ambition and catch them on the break using our pacey wingers.
The game started at a frenetic pace with Celtic doing most of the pressing without ever
really threatening Oogjen in the Pats goal. At this stage our game plan was working
perfectly, but we wasted some good breakaway opportunities due to poor execution and
decision making. In the heart of the defence we were solid with Cummane and Simpson
communicating well to snuff out any danger, while out wide Franklin had a very irate
Northern Irishman firmly stuffed in his pocket. On the couple of occasions that Celtic got
in behind us, Oogjen did well to close the angles and make life difficult for the opposition
attackers. O-0 at the short whistle and it was all to play for.
The second half game plan was to try and play more attacking football and threaten the
Celtic goal, but in fairness to the hoops, they seemed to marginally up the ante after the
break. We struggled to get our foot on the ball and create anything meaningful, while
defensively tired legs were beginning to afford the Celtic players that extra second of time
to pick out a pass. As Celtic slowly turned the screw we defended manfully with everyone
putting their shoulder to the wheel in a brave bid to keep the Celts at bay. Oogjen continued
his fantastic start to the season with some great saves, but with 15 minutes left on the clock
Celtic’s pressure finally paid off. A cross to the back post eluded everyone but the central
midfielder, who slotted the ball past a helpless Oogjen. Soon after, any slight chance we had
of recovery was lost when Hammond saw red for a reckless challenge near the sideline, and
with time almost up, Judas curled home from the edge of the box to give Celtic a deserved
2-0 victory.
This was a very disappointing loss for the Pats who displayed a terrific work rate and
attitude throughout the 90 minutes. However, we didn’t display enough attacking intent
to get anything out of the game, and perhaps could be guilty of affording Celtic a little
too much respect. Next week’s clash against DA-ROK is of vital importance, but if we can
combine the work ethic of this game with some flair and innovation in attack, there’s no
reason why we can’t comfortably take all three points.
Weekly AwardsTurning Point: Celtic looked anxious and frustrated before the opening goal, but the
situation changed rapidly thereafter.
Tackle of the Week: Only one contender this week and its Jay ‘BJ Penn’ Hammond for his
waist high kung fu scissors kick take-down that left MMA enthusiast Brian Howley nodding
his head in approval.
Save of the Week: Artimus had another outstanding outing between the posts making
several one-on-one stops to keep us in the game.
Silly gay boy celebration of the week: Not since the heyday of Lee Sharpe has any player
made his team mates and opponents cringe alike due to a goal celebration, but Judas did all
that and more as he shrieked and skipped his way past a number of bemused and disgusted players before finally falling in a heap and taking a well deserved nap.
After weeks of anticipation and barstool bullshitting around the bars of Itaewon, the
eagerly anticipated derby clash between Pats and Celtic took place in the wide surrounds
of Gwacheon on Sunday last. The Celts, as expected, were hot favourites going into the
game but the Pats were quietly confident of causing a seismic upset against the fallen kings
of Seoul football. Wary of Celtic’s passing ability in the centre of the park we lined up with
Machin, Hammond and Taylor in the middle of midfield, hoping to stifle Celtic’s attacking
ambition and catch them on the break using our pacey wingers.
The game started at a frenetic pace with Celtic doing most of the pressing without ever
really threatening Oogjen in the Pats goal. At this stage our game plan was working
perfectly, but we wasted some good breakaway opportunities due to poor execution and
decision making. In the heart of the defence we were solid with Cummane and Simpson
communicating well to snuff out any danger, while out wide Franklin had a very irate
Northern Irishman firmly stuffed in his pocket. On the couple of occasions that Celtic got
in behind us, Oogjen did well to close the angles and make life difficult for the opposition
attackers. O-0 at the short whistle and it was all to play for.
The second half game plan was to try and play more attacking football and threaten the
Celtic goal, but in fairness to the hoops, they seemed to marginally up the ante after the
break. We struggled to get our foot on the ball and create anything meaningful, while
defensively tired legs were beginning to afford the Celtic players that extra second of time
to pick out a pass. As Celtic slowly turned the screw we defended manfully with everyone
putting their shoulder to the wheel in a brave bid to keep the Celts at bay. Oogjen continued
his fantastic start to the season with some great saves, but with 15 minutes left on the clock
Celtic’s pressure finally paid off. A cross to the back post eluded everyone but the central
midfielder, who slotted the ball past a helpless Oogjen. Soon after, any slight chance we had
of recovery was lost when Hammond saw red for a reckless challenge near the sideline, and
with time almost up, Judas curled home from the edge of the box to give Celtic a deserved
2-0 victory.
This was a very disappointing loss for the Pats who displayed a terrific work rate and
attitude throughout the 90 minutes. However, we didn’t display enough attacking intent
to get anything out of the game, and perhaps could be guilty of affording Celtic a little
too much respect. Next week’s clash against DA-ROK is of vital importance, but if we can
combine the work ethic of this game with some flair and innovation in attack, there’s no
reason why we can’t comfortably take all three points.
Weekly AwardsTurning Point: Celtic looked anxious and frustrated before the opening goal, but the
situation changed rapidly thereafter.
Tackle of the Week: Only one contender this week and its Jay ‘BJ Penn’ Hammond for his
waist high kung fu scissors kick take-down that left MMA enthusiast Brian Howley nodding
his head in approval.
Save of the Week: Artimus had another outstanding outing between the posts making
several one-on-one stops to keep us in the game.
Silly gay boy celebration of the week: Not since the heyday of Lee Sharpe has any player
made his team mates and opponents cringe alike due to a goal celebration, but Judas did all
that and more as he shrieked and skipped his way past a number of bemused and disgusted players before finally falling in a heap and taking a well deserved nap.
Spring Season 2011 Game 1
Pats splash their way to a deserved point
The eagerly anticipated spring 2011 season kicked off on Sunday 27th with the Pats welcoming Han River Harriers to Jamjun Elementary School, on what was a terrible day for football. With overnight torrential rain meaning the pitch was under a couple of inches of water in places, a number of Pats players, led by Jay ‘The Southern Fairy’ Hammond, strongly voiced their disapproval towards playing in such conditions. However their protests fell on deaf ears and the game went ahead, much to the delight of player-manager James Gilbey, who was trembling with excitement under the cover of the school porch.
The game itself consisted mostly of splashing, kicking and chasing with conditions making passing football impossible. As such there was no pattern or structure to the match whatsoever, although the attitude and work-rate displayed by the Pats was to be commended. Harriers came closest to breaking the deadlock in a fractured first half but luckily for us the referee was unsighted when a deflected strike beat Art and rebounded back into play off the back stanchion.
Pats were the better side in the second half and we were unlucky not to grab a winner during several goal mouth scrambles. At the other end we were indebted to Artimus who pulled off a simply magnificent save from another deflected effort. Eventually, much to everyone’s delight, a nonsensical game ended in an entirely predictable no score draw.
Here’s hoping for similiar conditions next week when we take on the huns.
Weekly Awards
Turning Point: Luckily for Pats the ref doesn’t go to specsavers...Harriers can count themselves unlucky to have had a perfectly good goal not allowed.
Save of the week: Art’s flying save 20 minutes from time saved the Pats from what would have been a depressing defeat
Bitch of the week: A lot of competition for this with Paudie, Rich and Gilbey coming close. However Hammond wins the prize for what must surely be the most abusive pre-game rant directed at a referee in footballing history.
Blooper of the Week: James Gilbey’s choice of pitch raised some eyebrows in the Pats camp, with some of the older members remarking that previous managers such as Simpson, Flynn and Trolan had never booked a pitch with such glaring drainage issues.
The eagerly anticipated spring 2011 season kicked off on Sunday 27th with the Pats welcoming Han River Harriers to Jamjun Elementary School, on what was a terrible day for football. With overnight torrential rain meaning the pitch was under a couple of inches of water in places, a number of Pats players, led by Jay ‘The Southern Fairy’ Hammond, strongly voiced their disapproval towards playing in such conditions. However their protests fell on deaf ears and the game went ahead, much to the delight of player-manager James Gilbey, who was trembling with excitement under the cover of the school porch.
The game itself consisted mostly of splashing, kicking and chasing with conditions making passing football impossible. As such there was no pattern or structure to the match whatsoever, although the attitude and work-rate displayed by the Pats was to be commended. Harriers came closest to breaking the deadlock in a fractured first half but luckily for us the referee was unsighted when a deflected strike beat Art and rebounded back into play off the back stanchion.
Pats were the better side in the second half and we were unlucky not to grab a winner during several goal mouth scrambles. At the other end we were indebted to Artimus who pulled off a simply magnificent save from another deflected effort. Eventually, much to everyone’s delight, a nonsensical game ended in an entirely predictable no score draw.
Here’s hoping for similiar conditions next week when we take on the huns.
Weekly Awards
Turning Point: Luckily for Pats the ref doesn’t go to specsavers...Harriers can count themselves unlucky to have had a perfectly good goal not allowed.
Save of the week: Art’s flying save 20 minutes from time saved the Pats from what would have been a depressing defeat
Bitch of the week: A lot of competition for this with Paudie, Rich and Gilbey coming close. However Hammond wins the prize for what must surely be the most abusive pre-game rant directed at a referee in footballing history.
Blooper of the Week: James Gilbey’s choice of pitch raised some eyebrows in the Pats camp, with some of the older members remarking that previous managers such as Simpson, Flynn and Trolan had never booked a pitch with such glaring drainage issues.