2010/11 Diary

2009/10 Diary

2008/09 Diary

2007/08 Diary

2006/07 Diary

2005/06 Diary

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace
Only a few days ago until the launch of the Mount Albert Summer League. Opening day fixtures see a battle of the Bay with the 4th team (aka AndyCapped) taking on the hot favourites for the title, the 3rds (aka Black Magic). 4:30pm sees the other fancied team of Olympic (or HHH United as they are known) taking on the golden oldies of The Originals - a selection of Peter Lye's chums. One of Pete's criteria for his team was that all the players must be older than him... he's nearly managed it! An intriguing opening week then. Everyone wants a good start and to get the first 3 points in the bag. Who will get them? We'll know at 6pm on Saturday.

Fighting Fit HHH United Line-up as Favourites for Summer League
By ESPN soccer correspondent Tommy Smith

The inaugural Mount Albert Summer League (M.A.S.L) is just days away, and while most teams have being using every last hour of the pre-season to finalise their squads, HHH United are up and ready to hit the ground running when the season kicks-off this Saturday.

HHH have pulled in the core of the Olympic Capital 4 winter squad, and while they only managed a disappointing 9th during the regular season, manager Petrie is confident that the summer league game will better suit his team. “Well, for starters, it's only eight-aside. With my best eight players on the pitch, injury free, I’m confident that we’ll be a match for anybody.”

The one addition to HHH’s squad is Jimmy “Hasselbaink” Jessep. The ‘tart’ of Wellington lower grade football, Jessep lines up for his fourth team in just three years. Manager Petrie explains. “He’s a good professional. He’s got experience and he’s scored goals at every level he’s played at. Besides, he only lives half-a-block from Mt Albert Park – so he better keep his fridge stocked!”

The one worry for young HHH manager is the appalling disciplinary record of his young side – both on and off the pitch. “The lads have been told. It’s a short, sharp season. Nobody wants to spend half of it serving out a suspension” claims Petrie. However, a recently published profile exposed a claim by midfielder Steve “The Dancer” Gadd that his greatest moment in football was “The all in brawl with Kung Fu (Wellington) Utd at Melrose in 2003”. This quote has drawn comparisons wit Roy Keane’s infamous admission of setting out to injury a rival Manchester City player. The M.A.S.L committee have confirmed no disrepute charge will be brought against the player.

Petrie is pleased that he can now put the unwelcome publicity behind him and concentrate on the opening match against The Originals. “They’ve got some class players, most of who would be old enough to be my dad. We won’t be underestimating them” says Petrie. “But we’ve had a good build-up. We have a right to be confident. But we don’t want to be over-confident”.

HHH’s biggest challenge is likely to come from Black Magic. Having signed a numbers of players from the Island Bay Capital 2 team, Mike Jesset’s men have the strength to take on all-comers in the new look summer league. But it’s been a difficult build-up for Black Magic. Jessett was forced to head off shore just weeks before the start of the season to try and secure the last couple of pieces for his jigsaw. But to no avail. Instead, some patchy last minute loan deals, most notably with Olympic for the services of Hadley Southall, has meant Jessett has had no time to put his final squad through any kind of pre-season programme. If the Magic can get up and running quickly, they should push HHH all the way for the title.

At the other end of the standings the battle to avoid the wooden spoon looks like being between Phil Jones' Andy Cappers and Pete Lye’s Originals. Island Bay 4ths winter team manager Lye – with the massive resources of Rodney “Abramovich” Lawson’s Cool Moves empire behind him – walked away from his winter squad, determined to build a team of “Galacticos” to grace the summer league.

But crippled by the cost of the new Mt Albert Stadium, the funds had well and truly dried up by the time Lye went looking for signatures. Instead, in what will surely go down as one of the shrewdest pieces of transfer market wheeling and dealing’s in the competitions short history, Capper’s manager Jones off-loaded his four oldest players to the by now desperate Lye. Jones states “Sure, maybe I’ve passed up a bit of experience. But summer league is a whole new ball game. With the small squad, I can’t afford to be carrying anyone, never mind guys who are so old you’re more worried about their tickers giving way than their hamstrings!”

If there’s a surprise package in the League, it could well be the Cappers. In Corb Tate they have a ‘keeper of unquestionable class. Add to that the outstanding Andy Pauli in the centre of defence and player manager Jones' goal-scoring pedigree and there is the nucleus of a competitive team. But the crucial factor in the Cappers' season is likely to be the form of the “Gallagher brothers”, Paul Mouncey and Ricky Boyd. Both have skill to burn, and with the sun on their backs (and the late kick-offs!) they may have finally found a stage that will see their undoubted footballing talents blossom!

Lye meanwhile has put the off-season wranglings behind him. “They’re a distraction I just don’t need” was his only comment on the matter at a recent press conference. Let’s make no mistake, the Originals have the ability to cause some upsets throughout the competition, but a sustained challenge for the title seems less likely. In Paul Muollo they may well have the competitions outstanding player. And in Robbie Romijn, Marty Romijn and Grant Dennehy they have players of proven quality. But beyond that the squad has a distinctly patched-up look about it. But Lye was having none of it “I knew the players I wanted to sign, and to a man, I’ve signed them. If things don’t go right for us it won’t be the personnel that are to blame”.

So, a fascinating first week’s action in store.

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

So the first round of matches has been played on a perfect day at Mt Albert Park. Nothing much in it so far. draws all round meaning that 1st week bragging rights go to AndyCapped who remain top of alphabetical order! Two well fought games yesterday. The first saw a well groomed AndyCapped side match Black Magic in an even contest with both the goals coming in the final 15 minutes. The second game was a fiery encounter with both sides looking for that prize top spot. Both goals coming from pinball in the penalty area. Evenly poised then after week 1. Will we see a victory next week as AndyCapped entertain The Originals in a battle of the Island Bay 4ths whilst Black Magic play HHH United with both sides looking to kick start their campaign.

On a sour note to the day the FA have launched an investigation into The Originals fielding of an ineligible player in its first game. Karl Romijn who did not appear on the team sheet took to the field and even scored to earn a 1-1 draw. Joseph S. Blatter from FIFA was disappointed with manager Peter Lye. He was heard mumbling "I expect better from Peter. To come up with a set of rules and break them yourself is merely asking for trouble from the rest of the teams involved. From now on I hope each team will follow the set guidelines and stop bugging me with these incidents."

Peter was unavailable for comment but a close friend, who will remain nameless, said "Wu dunni guz a flyin' fook wha tha sheet-hid Blatter says!".

Its like kissing your sister - there's nothing in it
By ESPN soccer correspondent Tommy Smith

Week one was all locked up and second round matches look sure to be contested just as closely.

Title favourites HHH Utd settled for a draw with The Originals, but manager Petrie was far from downcast "At this stage of the season it's the quality of the performance which counts most, and I was more than happy with the way we played".

What's more, Petrie was uncharacteristically diplomatic about one or two controversial incidents that seemed to go against his team. Speaking about the penalty claim that was denied in the dying seconds of the game, Petrie lamented "Yeah, I think if the referee looks at the replay, he'll be honest and admit it was about three yards inside the box. But hey, he made plenty more good decisions than bad ones, and if we'd taken our chances it wouldn't have mattered anyway"

As for preparations for this Saturday's fixture, Petrie was non-committal "We don't know a lot about the Magic, so we'll be concentrating on our own game rather than worrying about theirs. We've got a couple of injuries to deal with, but that simply provides opportunities for other squad members to step-up"

Originals manager Lye was delighted with the point from the draw "We were excellent. Especially for the first 50 minutes. We played some good football, and in fact I think of the teams on show on Saturday, we got to grips with the playing conditions quicker than anyone"

Responding to questions of over-vigorous play by some of his seasoned defenders, Lye had this to say "I'm happy to leave it to the referee. Those who want to criticise should do the same. Besides, if I wanted my players to run around like a bunch of Nancys I'd have shipped them off to Europe with the All Blacks!"

And what about Saturday's local derby with the Cappers "Can't wait. It's been the game we've been looking forward to ever since the draw was announced. I've got a lot of respect for Phil, and I've got some great friends in the Cappers. But everyone knows that there were some issues in the off-season, there's no point pretending otherwise. I only hope things get resolved on the park with a good, clean game of football. But I certainly won't be wearing my best shirt down the tunnel after the game!"

Andy Cappers manager Phil Jones was equally coy about Saturday's big match "It's just another game as far as I'm concerned"

Asked whether he was also happy with a point in the opening fixture, Jones was similarly non-committal "A point's a point. It's better than none" However, he was much keener to talk about his team's performance "Fantastic. I was thrilled with the lads. They made me very proud. It was the first time half of them had got out of bed on a Saturday for about 6 weeks, so really, what more could I have asked for. Nothing. They were terrific, everyone one of them"

Was he looking for any improvement in any particular areas for Saturday's game "Just a little more composure in front of goal, that's all that was missing. And concentration. At this level, games can be won or lost in the blink of an eye. If the players want to blink, they can leave it 'til the sub-break!"

And finally, the Black Magic. For many pundits, The Magics likely performance was hardest to get a handle on prior to the season kicking off. Last Saturday will have answered few questions. Several key players were missing from the opening line-up and there is no word from the Magic's camp as to this week's line-up. Manager Jessett certainly wasn't giving anything away "I'll wait until Saturday. I've got a big squad, and one of the advantages that gives me is to be able to select a team that I think suits conditions on the day. I'm not throwing that advantage away by announcing my line-up 48 hours out"

With this in mind, what did Jessett make of HHH Utd's performance in game one "Pretty much as expected. They were well organised. Fit. They kept going for the full 70 minutes. They were probably unlucky not to win it in the end. But I don't think they have anything there that we should be losing sleep over. We just need to keep our shape, keep talking, and play football. We were a little ragged at times last week, but when we did get it right, we looked really good. We just need to up the intensity this week. Start the game when the whistle blows, and keep it going for the full 70. If we do that, we'll take some beating"

So, all teams get a second chance to make the early running. The neutrals among us will just be hoping for another beautiful day at Mt Albert Stadium and perhaps the sight of the ball smashing into the back of the 'auld onion bag just a little more often than it did in week 1.

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

The sun shone and the goals went flying in. That's the story of week 2 in the Mt Albert Summer League as the 4 goals from last week became 11 this week. The first encounter saw The Originals taking on their Island Bay 4th rivals AndyCapped in what was to be a goal fest for all spectators. AndyCapped came out firing and having missed several chances capitalised with a well worked move resulting in a cross field ball from Andy Pauli finding Darren Markham to fire home from close range. This spurred The Originals on who managed to create their only 2 chances of the half and scoring from both to lead 2-1 at the break. Afterwards legs began to fade as the sun beat down and it was the younger guys who found the going tougher with The Originals firing home another 3 goals to AndyCapped's 1 to finish up 5-2. Notable performance was Paul Muollo who fired home a hat trick even though number 2 should never be counted - any player who miss hits a shot, swears at the effort and then proceeds to celebrate after it bobbled in off the post should have the decency to accept the goal should never have been allowed and sub himself off (we might have had a chance then ;))

In the other game, HHH United took on Black Magic. Each side eager to take over at the top and to kick start their season into life. In a ding dong battle it finished up 2-2 which was probably a fair result after both side put together a string of chances but couldn't find the net.

All this leaves The Originals sitting pretty at the top of the table after week 2 and the rest scrapping for that all important second spot.

We have a win at last
By ESPN soccer correspondent Tommy Smith

Week 3 and the round kicks-off with The Originals against Black Magic, with The Originals riding high following their 5-2 drubbing over derby rivals the Andy Cappers. But something tells me they won't be having it all their own way this week. The word around Mt Albert is that the Magic, more than any other team has been keeping their powder dry, and it could be that they might come out firing a few more shots this week.

Manager Jessett, saying little as usual, didn't totally disagree with my assessment "Yeah, well the first two games have gone very much the same for us. We've played some good stuff, had our foot on the throat, but just haven't been able to keep it there" When pushed, it seemed that Jessett wasn't entirely happy with his troops last week "Look, not taking anything away from the HHH lads, but we should have had the three points last week. Some of my guys...well...they just need to worry a little less about what their team-mates are doing, what the referees doing and what the chicks on the side-line are doing. If everyone can concentrate one their own game for 70 minutes, I reckon we're gonna roll someone!"

An ominous message for The Originals who take on the Magic. But they are the one team who should go into this week with some confidence. Manager Lye said he was working hard to keep his players feet on the ground "I was rapt with the result but I'd be a mug to read too much into it. We were under the kosh for the first twenty, and if it hadn't been for a couple of super stops from Micky Wray and some pretty darn average finishing from the Cappers, we'd have been buried. They started chasing the game too early, and it opened up for us. That's not going to happen two weeks in a row. I'm expecting a game much like our opening week encounter with the Hs"

The late game sees the Andy Cappers taking on the HHHs. These two teams are well known to each other, having come head to head in a number of pre-season winter league encounters. The Hs shaded it then, and a betting man would be picking it to go the same way again this weekend, especially with the Hs back to something like full strength. H's player/coach Petrie said his team were desperate for a win to kick-start their season "Draws, they'll kill you if you start stacking them up. We battled hard last week and got a point which was maybe just a little more than we deserved. But then the week before, the Originals got one off us that they shouldn't have. Two games, two points. We'd have been better off with one win and one loss" Were there any particular areas that HHH had been working on during the week? "Maybe we haven't adapted to the 8 a-side quite as well as the other teams in the competition. Attack can turn to defence very quickly. We put our back two under a lot of pressure at times last week through losing the ball in bad spots. We need to get our shape sorted out so that when we go forward we're not left quite so exposed at the back. But apart from that, I'm pretty happy"

And finally, to the team propping up the table at this very early stage of the competition, The Cappers. Ironically, Phil Jones was probably the most buoyant of all the managers spoken to "If we can play for seventy minutes like we did for the first twenty last week, we've got absolutely nothing to worry about. And there's no reason why we shouldn't. Look 2-5, that's nothing to be proud of, but that Muollo lad banged in two goals that no one else can even dream of scoring in this competition. The first one near on ripped the blimmin' net off the posts. Corb Tate, he's played semi-pro has he, and he says he's never seen nought like. I said Corb, you didn't see it...full stop. That was the problem"

Oh well, fingers crossed for a third week of perfect weather and a couple of games half as entertaining as last weeks fair should see everyone going home happy!

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

Stalemate again this week as all teams ended up drawing one-all. This leaves The Originals at the top still but with no teams out of contention after the first round of matches. In the first game of the day, an injury ravaged Originals team maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign by posting a 1-1 against Black Magic. Captain Peter Lye was away scouting a match between Berhampore rest home and Khandallah RSA over 60s, saying he needed some more young blood in the team.

The second match of the day saw an entertaining encounter between AndyCapped and HHH United. The wind doing nobody any favours as a stiff northerly swirled around the ground. HHH got off to the dream start after just 5 minutes. A well worked cross from the right and a terrific run into the area to toe poke past a wrong footed keeper. The equaliser came early in the second half with a clever back heel fooling 3 defenders to allow Paul Mouncey to hammer into the corner. Gritty defending and terrific goalkeeping at the death stopped HHH from taking all 3 points.

So round 1 complete and a rest week this coming Saturday. Peter Lye is trying to organise a kick around so get in contact with your team captains if you are keen for that one. Failing that, the second round kicks off on December 4th.

With regular columnist Tommy Smith still in Europe on Champions League duty, web editor Phil Jones caught up with Summer League's Director of Football, Hanz Offit, to get his views on what he's seen in the opening round of the competition.

Jones: Well Hanz, a new competition, nobody really knew what to expect, how do you think the teams have come to grips with the requirements of the league so far?

Offit: Generally, the football has been entertaining. This is good for the league and good for the spectators. But from a technical perspective I still think the teams have a long way to come...errr go.

Jones: And why's that Hanz?

Offit: Well, formation is the cornerstone of all good football teams. I think many of the teams have yet to decide on what formation is right for them. But this is not the most serious problem, no. When I was working with the Italian squad last year we were able to spend a lot of time working on left-sided defensive formations to counter the over-lapping runs of the wide Portuguese players. We worked on reducing the space, making sure we had the correct numbers in the centre of the pitch and making sure that the offensive players were in the correct position to break forward when we won possession. But when I go....errr come...to my first training session at the Summer League I find a Scotsman.

Jones: A Scotsman, well yes, there are a number of nationalities represented in the summer league. What is the issue with a Scotsman Hanz?

Offit: Well, I say to this Scotsman 'What side of the field you play, left or right?'. He look at me, he look at his feet and he smile "Aye Hanz, noo flies on ye' fella". This bloody Scotsman idiot had his boots on the wrong feet! So I think to myself no wonder these bloody Scotsman can't beat Moldova! Where the hell do I come...errr go...from here?

Jones: So yes, it's fair to say you had a few hiccups at your early sessions. I know you have spent a bit of time working with the AndyCappers who are currently bottom of the league, how's that been going Hanz?

Offit: Ha! Well. I see their game with the Originals team. They lose their formation, they lose the game. Simple. So, at the training session I say to the right-half "What is your formation" and he tells me he lines up two paces to the left of the singer and three paces in front of the drum kit! I say that this is a strange formation and I ask him what are you trying to play? He tells me late-60's retro. I tell him the game has changed a lot since the 60's. Maybe this is their problem? I need to see this team play again, make some more assessment. So, I speak to the manager and he tells me the next game is at Bodega 11.30pm on Saturday. These late kick-offs are really getting out of hand. I'm going to talk to Sepp about this.

Jones: Some critics have been a little disappointed at the number of goals scored in the league so far. What do you attribute this to Hanz?

Offit: Well, I have been impressed by the goal-keeping. Especially from the Originals and the AndyCappers. This man from the Originals, Wray, he has been very good. But this is the benefit of summer league. The goals are not so big. I'm thinking I can take him to Europe, get a contract for him. So, I make some inquiries. But this man is a convicted hooligan. He is banned from half the grounds in Europe. Now I understand why such a good player plays here in your summer league, he has now where else to come...errr...go.

Jones: And what about the play in the out-field Hanz, anyone impressed you there?

Offit: No.

Jones: Hmmm, that's a rather harsh assessment Hanz? Has anything else impressed you then.

Offit: Yes. I think the time-keeping has been good. But this man Reidy, I'm not sure why he needs a hooter?

Jones: OK. Well, thanks very much Hanz. We look forward to catching up with you again soon. Enjoy the games tomorrow.

Bottom of the league after 3 weeks. How have you seen your season thus far?
It's been tough going for us so far. We've had a few injuries to players, which have disrupted the formation of the team. Saying that though, we have showed that we can match anybody on our day with excellent draws against Black Magic and HHH United. Our team is starting to settle now and with the week off we will be looking at getting a full squad together for the start of the next game in a fortnight's time. The disappointment was of course the loss to The Originals in week 2. We will be targeting this game in the second round as one that we desperately want to win given that they are the leaders of the division and we have something to prove against these guys.

There has been talk of a replacement being brought in from Spain. Have you heard anything to that effect?
Rubbish. El Nino Paella Santiago has never been linked with this club. In fact only yesterday Andrew Anders Anderson, chairman of AndyCapped, gave me the vote of confidence which is a sure sign I'll be here till the end of the season. I have a contract here until then and a job to do. Given the current predicament we are in at present myself and the players do not need this kind of negative media hype that goes around when a team loses 1 game.

Have you got too many Andys in your team?
It's very much like the old state of affairs in Glasgow with Celtic and Rangers. In yonder years only Catholics could play for Celtic and Protestants for Rangers. Here it was envisaged that only Andys would be allowed to play for the club, but as time passes the pressures to get results means you've got to look outside the realm of Andys and move into other names. At first it was thought we could go with names that rhyme with Andy but Wellington does not boast high number of skilful footballers called Randy, Sandy or Bandy and so we have the eclectic mix of names we have today. The hardcore 3 Andys still remain however.

How do you rate the other teams in the division?
Having seen all the games so far I don't think there is much in this competition. It would only take a couple of wins to bounce a team right into contention or a couple of losses to send a team from the top to the bottom. I think wins are just around the corner in this league. Every team has been very cagey so far and just sussing out the opposition. The second round promises to be a bit more open I think.

Who have been your stand out performers so far?
I don't like to single out names for outstanding performers. We win as a team, we lose as a team. There have been moments of fantastic football and there have been moments we'd wish to forget but we are a team of skilled individuals who with a bit of luck could serve up a few upsets in this competition yet.

Can you win the title?
Too early to say at this stage. The seasons focus is to finish in the top 2 and make the grand final. From there, anything can happen. The goal for the second round of matches is to stay in touch with the top 2 and ensure that come the final round we know what we have to do to get into the final.

3 games into the season and unbeaten so far. How do you see your team's progress to date?
I'm a little frustrated we haven't picked up anything more than a draw so far. We had plenty of opportunities in our games against the Originals and AndyCapped to take all three points, but poor finishing and disjointed lead up play has let us down. Conversely we were probably lucky to get a draw from the Black Magic fixture, as we went off the boil in the second half and only some sublime keeping salvaged us a draw.

How do you answer your critics who have nick named you the Leonardo De Vinci of the division - good at drawing?
We're not worried by what the critics say, it's obvious we are seen as an Olympic team - automatically making us the outsiders in this competition. Every team has raised their game when they've played us. It's only a matter of time before we get our break through win.

Why do you think the draws have not been turned into victories?
Again, lack of finishing - opposition goal keepers have been outstanding against us, but we also need to look at converting the chances that are available to us.

How do you rate the other teams in the division?
The level of football in the grade is fairly high, and all 4 teams appear to be evenly matched - as the 5 draws have shown.

Who have been your stand out performers so far?
I couldn't pin point anyone in particular, we play as a team, and each week different guys have put their hands up with their performances.

Can you win the title?
The title is decided in a one off final game. If we can string a few wins together and make the final, then anything is possible.

3 games into the season and unbeaten so far. How do you see your team's progress to date?
Consistent. We just need to convert a few more of our chances and we'll be sweet.

The T.A.B. are no longer accepting bets on draws for your games. Why do you think victories aren't forthcoming?
I'm no football expert, but I'd say it's because we seem to score the same amount of goals during the match as the opposition... One of these games we are going to score with most of our shots on target; when that happens I'm sure we will walk off winners.

How does the lack of a static goalie affect your games?
Good question. I think it has made a difference, in the respect that all the teams we play seem to have a top 'keeper between the sticks! I'm happy with my team members that have stepped up to fill the role though, they are not specialised 'keepers, and have pulled off some quality saves.

How do you rate the other teams in the division?
Well having drawn every game, I'd have to say we're all pretty even.

Who have been your stand out performers so far?
I've been very pleased with my team so far. Players that have come in from outside of the Island Bay 3rd team, Martin, Mike T and Paul have all been very solid and composed in defence, protecting our stand-in 'keeper well, and Jason has done well with his accurate finishing and smart wing play. Some of the more experienced players in the squad have been putting in some invaluable performances also, players like Dave working hard/winning ball in midfield as usual, Antony holding the ball and linking play, and George with his direct running and stand-in goalkeeping ability. There have also been some superb performances from some of the younger guys in the team, namely Carlo and Matt, who are full of running and you can see are consistently improving as they gain experience with each match. Wade is only just coming back from a knee injury and is already on the goal trail and looking sharp.

Can you win the title?
Yes.

3 games into the season and sitting at the top of the table. Did you imagine that at the start of the season?
To be honest Phil, I didn't give it a second thought. It was a new league. I knew how good my team was, but I had no idea what to expect from the opposition.

What do you think has been the key to your success so far?
Well, it might sound like a bit of a micky take, but it's the experience. The games have been tight - all of them - and at times we've been under a lot of pressure. But we've helped ourselves by playing smart. And that's the experience coming through.

How do you rate the other teams in the division?
It's as close as the results suggest but I think the Magic are the team with the most improvement in them, and if they do improve, I think they should be able to get themselves on to the top of the pile at the end of the round robin. But that's not to say whoever's in the final won't have a great chance of taking out the title.

Who have been your stand out performers so far?
Muollo, Robbie Romijn and Wray in goals. No doubt about that. Not just in my team, but I think they've been the stand-out performers in the competition.

Can you win the title?
Anybody can. Everyone has a chance of making the top two, everyone has a chance of winning it on the day. But you could say the same for the wooden spoon. I think the pundits had it right at the start of the season though. The Magic and HHH are still the two teams to beat for my money.

Did you enjoy beating your fellow Island Bay 4th team, AndyCapped?
It was just great to play in such an enjoyable game of football. The goals, the action, the camaraderie between the teams. That was what the competition was meant to be all about. Winning was a bonus. I'm sure everyone would agree that was the most exciting game of the season so far.

Did you believe there would only be 1 victory in the league after the first round of matches?
That's quite bizarre really. Even when teams are as close as they are, more often than not someone manages to sneak a winner. So yeah, I am surprised by that and I don't expect to see it repeated in the second round.

As president of the league how do you feel the overall structure is going and what what you look to change next season?
The motivation for summer league came from three places. First, we spent a lot of time pre-season kicking a ball about at Mt Albert and everyone enjoyed it, so I thought we could build on that with the league. Second, I managed a big squad during the winter. That meant I wasn't able to give all the guys as much football as I would have liked. I thought the summer league was a chance to pay-back some of my loyal squad members from the winter league. Finally, Rod and I know that the only thing the wives won't stand in the way of is our football. If I could organise something to do with football, I could get a visa - no problem. So, that's why we have Summer League. But I guess I envisaged something that would be a little more laid back. Almost all the games have been played very competitively. If that's the way the players want it, then I guess that's fine. But me personally, I'd like to see the heat come off a little bit and guys just enjoying the games win, lose or draw. I want to see people playing the game with smiles on their faces, not scowls because the ref awarded a goal-kick not a corner.

Arrest of time keeper reveals seedy side of Summer League
The inaugural Mt Albert Summer league was rocked this morning by news that non-playing executive and time keeper Colin Reidy was arrested in the early hours of yesterday morning. Police will only reveal that the arrest was for a "motor vehicle infringement" but rumours are already amok as to events leading to Reidy's custodial detainment. Reidy was released on bail shortly before midday and has now barricaded himself inside his inner-city luxury apartment. Besieged by press, Reidy made a brief a appearance on the penthouse apartment's balcony. Puffing on one of his trade-mark Havanas he made no comment but offered the assembled press what one witness described as a "victory salute".

Details are sketchy but bystanders who witnessed Reidy's arrest said the police were called after Reidy became embroiled in a heated debate with a woman outside a club in Vivian street. The witness said the argument seemed to stem from the woman's refusal to allow Reidy to enter the premise with what looked like a "football corner flag". "He'd clearly been drinking" claimed the witness "and he seemed adamant he knew exactly what he wanted to do with flag." It seems that the argument grew more and more heated as the woman was heard trying to explain to Reidy that it was "not one of the services offered, no matter how much you're prepared to pay!". Summer League officials have yet to comment on the incident. Reidy is next due to appear for time-keeping duties at this Saturday's fourth-round fixtures.

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

Another week of Summer League action and another win in the competition. This time going to Black Magic who managed to turn around early first half pressure into a comfortable 3-0 victory over AndyCapped. An entertaining game saw Black Magic call in a new trialist into the team. Football Kingz, HJK Helsinki and current All White, Raf De Gregorio, is currently searching for a club over the Christmas break and got invited for a run. Although he impressed during the game, manager Mike Jessett is not said to be keen to sign the international quoting "A very good player indeed but he isn't the player we are looking for right now." Last we heard Peter Lye was straight on the phone to Raf's agent to discuss personal terms...

The game itself saw a very attractive game with a lot of good football played. AndyCapped started brightly and had a few chances early on whilst Black Magic always look effective on the counter attack. 0-0 at half time and whatever was in the half time coffee for Black Magic (or it could have been the half time Cocoa for AndyCapped) saw a superb second half from the Magic. The broke the AndyCapped back line 3 times during a breathtaking display of how to pass the ball on a bobbly pitch. Have Black Magic kick started their campaign?

The first game of the day saw an entertaining encounter between The Originals and HHH United. 2 goals on 21 and 22 minutes made it 1-1 before The Originals took the lead going into half time 2-1 up. HHH fought back with a wicked cross come shot which missed everyone and nestled safely in the back of the net to continue their 100% record of draws. Who's betting against a draw between them and Black Magic next week?

So the Originals stay top on goals scored now with Black Magic drawing level with them on points this week.

Cool blast for officials turns up the heat on crucial 5th round
By ESPN soccer correspondent Tommy Smith

The Summer League reaches its halfway point on Saturday and while all teams still have their destiny in their own hands, it could start to slip depending on Saturday's results.

Three points for cellar-dwellers the AndyCappers against local rivals The Originals will toss them right back into finals contention but a third defeat will leave them with a lot of ground to make up post-Christmas. But the big match for the weekend is the HHH United v Black Magic showdown. A fiery encounter first up saw things finish all square. Ironically, following four consecutive draws another draw this weekend wouldn't be the worst result for the Hs. It would stop the Magic pulling further away, and leaves the Hs rounding off round two with a less formidable game against the AndyCappers.

However, H's manager Robbie "Allardyce-Wenger" Petrie was still lamenting events against The Os last weekend. "We just need a fair crack of the whip from the officials, that's all" claims Petrie. "Look at Saturday's game! I don't want to say anything that's going to land me in trouble with the Committee, but I just wonder what it is that always leaves us on the wrong side of the marginal decisions? I saw the coin toss. The coin wasn't sitting flat in his hand when he (referee Jones) tossed it. Then there was the ball, it wasn't at regulation air pressure. The kick-off! One of their guys was standing over half-way at the kick-off. Where was the linesman then? He always seems to be there when there's an offside to rule on! At least twice their 'keeper took a goal-kick when the ball wasn't stationary. The last sub's break! That went ten seconds over time! I know the time-keeper's had some personal issues to deal with lately, but that's no excuse! You add all that up and you can see why I'm not happy! Now we're left with a real pressure match this Saturday when really, the officials cost us three points last week. It's not fair. We haven't got the millions that the Originals have, or the Magic for that matter. We train hard, we play hard, we do our best to patch up the squad when we have an injury or two - but I really wonder if we're playing on a level pitch at times! In fact I looked at it on Saturday and it does slope slightly towards the hockey stadium. That's not fair either coz we were never told about that!"

O's manager Lye struggled to see what all the fuss was about. "What's he on about. My three best players were unavailable on Saturday. I had another withdrawal an hour before kick-off! We just got on with the job" Perhaps the neutral observer would have some sympathy for Petrie. The Os have a production line of first-class replacements to call on, as was demonstrated by the Karori triumvirate that donned the famous grey shirt so skilfully on Saturday afternoon.

And it seems that quality replacements were the order of the day. Spectators and opposition players alike received a real treat when current All White and former European professional Raf De Gregorio appeared for the Magic in the late game against the AndyCappers. Magic manager Jessett explains "We were always looking to strengthen our squad over the busy Christmas and New Year period. We had Paul Gascoigne out for a trial, but when TV beat him in a sprint at training I really wondered whether he had the match fitness. So when Raf became available we snapped him up. He's on a weekly contract at the moment so there's no guarantee we'll be playing him again" Turning to the upcoming match against the Hs, Jessett was playing down talk of it being a make or break encounter "Three points last Saturday has taken a bit of the pressure off us. We're where we want to be at this stage of the season and whatever happens on Saturday isn't going to change that too dramatically one way or another"

AndyCappers player/manager Jones was keen for his players to take some positives out of the experience of playing against one of the country's leading players "I really think Raf's performance on Saturday was a copy-book lesson for my lads. He made the game look simple. Forget about the skills for a minute, my lads have got plenty of those as well. But it was his awareness, his decision making. That's what he did for the Magic on Saturday and that's exactly what we're struggling with week-in, week-out" Jones also acknowledged there was no escaping the significance of Saturday's fixture for his team "A loss and we'll really be climbing a mountain to make it to the final. But hey, it's in our hands. We played some really good stuff for forty minutes on Saturday, as we inevitably do every week. We're not missing goal-scorers or defenders or a decent 'keeper. We're missing an eighty minute performance, that's all"

So, finally. After four weeks of shadow boxing matchday 5 should finally see some fighters coming off the ropes. The League table should make fascinating reading by next Monday morning.

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

Week 5 would make defenders and keepers cringe as 15 goals banged the back of the net over the weekend. The first game had it all, a 5-4 thriller where the lead changed hands on several occasions with Black Magic eventually edging it. This sees Black Magic take the coveted number 1 spot from the Originals and the first team to gain 2 victories in the competition. The game also saw Robbie Petrie sin binned for "an over zealous challenge". Petrie thought it had all been blown out of proportion and praised referee Peter Lye for his handling of the event.

In the second game of the day a rampant AndyCapped side gave their best performance of the season to earn a 3-3 draw with the mornings leaders, The Originals. They could and should have won it as well with some breath taking moves only let down by the average finishing in front of goal. They calved up the table toppers at ease and deserved better from the game. It took a second hat trick from Paul Muollo (both against AndyCapped!!) including the equaliser 1 minute from time to save The Originals' blushes and keep them well in the hunt for a final berth. Questioned after the game about whether AndyCapped had bottled it, manager Phil Jones said "It's a crap game anyway, we're not gonna play any more! We're off to take up lawn bowls."

The first postponement of the new campaign sees AndyCapped and HHH United playing sometime in the new year. This is due to player shortages in both camps. This means that the other match between Black Magic and The Originals has been brought forward to a 3pm kick off.

9-Goal Thriller is Summer League's first "Classic"
By ESPN soccer correspondent Tommy Smith

It's hard to start previewing week-6 action when everyone is still talking about what happened in week 5. Black Magic's thrilling 5-4 victory over the Hs had it all. Fast developing a reputation as Summer League's equivalent of United v Arsenal, the round two clash made the feisty first round encounter look like a lazy Sunday afternoon kick-about by comparison.

Much of the talk during the week has been over the incident mid-way through the first half that threatened to see things get completely out of hand. Reacting to a strong challenge from a Magic player, H's player/manager Petrie hauled down his opposite with a reckless lung from behind. Referee Lye was left with no option but to banish the H's talisman to the stands for the requisite stand-down period. Referee Lye explained after that the punishment could have been worse "I've been around for a while, and I've seen some rash challenges, and I'll tell ya', that was right up there. But credit to the Magic lad, he didn't make a meal of it. And credit to Petrie, he knew immediately he'd over-stepped the mark and he went straight to the sideline. Plenty of times when you get an incident like that the handbags come out. But it was the culmination of what had been a hectic and competitive opening period. Things settled down after that, and that's a credit to both teams. It would be a shame if this incident over-shadows what went on to be a great game of football"

As if straight from a Hollywood script, Petrie marked his re-entry to the fray with a stunning equaliser just moments after returning to the pitch for the second half. But not to be outdone, the competitive and equally combustible Aranyi bagged two super goals for the Magic. A late rally from the never-say-die Hs pulled a goal back, but the Magic hung on for a deserved three points. However, few neutrals would argue that it was hard on the Hs to come away pointless, such was their contribution to the afternoons entertainment.

Petrie was clearly struggling to keep a brave face in defeat "We played well. Really, really well. I just don't know what more we could have done. We were committed, we played good football, we played for eighty minutes - and what have we got to show for it?"

Words of praise for the victors were almost choked out "They're a funny team. They barely seem to get a sweat up at times. You feel as though you've got them on the ropes, but somehow they keep riding the punches and then bang - they're up the other end and ya' picking the ball out of the net"

Slim consolation for the Hs perhaps but theirs wasn't the only hard-luck story of the round. Bottom of the table AndyCappers were cruising to victory at 3-1 against the undefeated Originals but conceded two late goals, the second with almost the last kick of the match.

"Kick. He didn't nought kick it, it came off his knee! If he'd a kicked it our Corbet might have stopped it" bemoaned manager Jones. "3-3 and I'll tell ya' now, that hurt a lot more than the pasting we got in the first round" Jones now heads to that hotbed of continental football - Carlisle! - on a scouting mission in an attempt to strengthen his squad. ("League 2, ya having a laugh!"...)

The O's manager Lye was happy to admit his team had rode their luck "Look, we got a point more than we deserved out there today. But I'm more worried about next week. If we play like that against The Magic we'll be Christmas turkey!"

With a congested list of Christmas and New Year "sponsors functions", the AndyCappers and Hs have agreed to postpone Saturday's fixture. However, league leaders The Magic will line-up against second placed Originals. The Magic are now clear leaders in the competition, with one hand on a place in February's final. Manager Jesset remained typically unexcited about his teams progress "Last Saturday was a tough game. I'm pleased to have come out with the three points. But I'm still looking for my team to lift their game to the level I know they're capable of" What then were the areas that needed improvement? "It still - as it has all season - comes down to playing for eighty minutes. I always felt we had the winning of the game last week, but I'm not happy we had to come from behind to do it. We went to sleep for the middle period of the match, there's no excuses for that"

So, a top-of-the-table clash between The Magic and The Os has the potential to be another great spectacle. But on form the Os will have to lift their game considerably if they are going to threaten the league leaders' unbeaten run.

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

THE CROWDS DEMAND THEIR MONEY BACK. Not a great footballing spectacle yesterday as the crowds occupied themselves in the scorching sun with games of lose the t-shirts and shoes. We have a winner for the lost shoes competition but still looking at this stage for the winner of the lost T-shirt competition. Any entries email to me.

On the footballing front the Christmas cake was catching up with everyone as the number of goals was comparable to the number of surviving turkeys on Boxing Day. Were all the teams playing like turkeys or was it a case of everyone receiving the beginners guide to defending book for Christmas?

The first game saw league leaders and title favourites Black Magic entertain bottom of the table AndyCapped. A win for the Magic would see them become the first team to make the final. Sadly for them the champagne remains on ice as a gutsy performance from AndyCapped nearly saw them take all three points away from the game. Just after half time AndyCapped struck with a goal poacher's goal from Paul Atkins on debut after a great build up involving about 12 passes. This stirred the sleeping giants but their only efforts were limited to long range shots which regularly flew over the bar. Frustration crept into the side and it took a bizarre goal 15 minutes from time from Dale Smith to rescue a point and takes them to within 1 point of a final berth.

The second game of the day gave The Originals a chance to cement their place as the hot favourites for the 2nd final place as they entertained HHH United. A dire affair saw nearly all the viewing gallery depart before half time. After the break The Originals took the lead through a well taken header from Matt Whiteman. HHH tried to fight back into the game but some superb keeping from Michael Wray including a Gordon Banks vs Pele tip over the bar meant they couldn't break through.

All this means that Black Magic are all but assured of a final berth with the The Originals looking odds on to take them on in the shoe case event. For this to be any different HHH must down Black Magic next week and AndyCapped but defeat The Originals.....

Make or break time for The Hs & Cappers
By ESPN soccer correspondent Tommy Smith

Six points adrift at the foot of the table, a loss in their respective fixtures this week will condemn both The Hs and the AndyCappers to February's wooden spoon playoff. However, in what has been a very tight competition not reflected in the lopsided look of the points table, victories for either will throw them back into contention for a final's birth.

AndyCapper's player/manager Phil Jones was upbeat as usual "It's cup time - and we're already in the 5th round. You can tell me we're one loss away from going out, but as far as I'm concerned we're three wins away from Wembley, and four away from lifting the cup. That's what I'll be telling my lads"

The reality is four wins on the trot for a team that have gone six matches without a single victory is a massive ask but Jones was keen to put another perspective on things "Look. We may have lost a few games on the scoreboard, but no one's really beaten us out on the park. Our luck's gotta turn at some stage and I think that time is now. Besides, it's possible two wins out of three will even be enough to get us through to the final, so even at this stage one more slip up won't necessarily be fatal"

For the Hs it's been a traumatic week. The announcement by manager Petrie that he wouldn't be renewing his contract has thrown the camp into disarray. What's more, Petrie won't be available for this week's must-win fixture against The Magic, fuelling rumours that he is already in Europe finalising details of his next post. It seems the only way the Hs will get to see their inspirational coach next season is if they can win Summer League and grab a spot in next season's Champions League. Assistant manager Lester seemed happy to join in the speculation "Yeah, a few names have been bandied about. West Brom, Southampton, Fulham. But I can't see the Coach wanting to sign-up with a struggling club, he's done his hard yards here over the last few seasons, the lads think there's something big on the horizon" Rumours continue that struggling Newcastle may even cut their losses with Souness at the end of the season but Lester was not convinced that this was a likely post for Petrie "Why would you sack Souness and appoint Robbie? They're two of the same kind - nah, I can't see him at Newcastle. We'll just have to wait and see"

At the top end of the table the managers, somewhat surprisingly, were in a far from relaxed mood. Magic's brooding Jessett - fast developing a reputation as the summer league's answer to Joes Mourinho - was less than happy with last week's performance "The break wasn't good for us. We had set a standard by Christmas time but now it seems we have to start again. I wasn't happy with my players last week. Sometimes you don't win the game, you don't get the result you want. But, when this happens, I don't expect it to be because the opposition played with more heart than us. Last week the Cappers played with more heart than us. We were lucky to get the point"

The Magic are all but mathematically assured of a place in the final, would Jessett been taking the opportunity to rotate his squad? "First we must guarantee our place in the final. Tomorrow I expect to see a lot more commitment from my players. If I don't get that, then there will no question of rotation. Players will be changed but it will be the axe falling - not rotation!"

Although six points clear of third place, The Originals position in the final is far from secure. A loss to the Cappers tomorrow could will see them needing a win in their final group game against the Magic to make it to the final. Manager Lye was keen to play-down the significance of tomorrow's game "Look, I was rapt with the result last week. The Hs always give you a tough game, they always give 110%. Last week we gave 110% back, and I think that's what got us through in the end. I just want the lads to do the same again tomorrow. That's all I ever expect - total commitment, the results will look after themselves"

So it's great to see that late in the group phase of the competition, everyone still has plenty to play for. While the fans would love to see a little more finesse out on the pitch than they witnessed last week, the signs are that two more fiercely competitive fixtures will unfold and that goals will again be at a premium.

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

Bucket loads of goals then this weekend as 15 goals hit the back of the net. The goal keepers have retreated back after their low scoring week last week and have been replaced by the bold and beautiful strikers... and Peter Lye... who can hold their heads high this week. This week also saw the grand final teams sorted out as Black Magic got the point they needed against HHH whilst The Originals did the job over AndyCapped to book their place.

The first game saw a spirited HHH look to hold Black Magic to a draw only to fall away at the last with 3 late goals. There are calls for Robbie Petrie to be reinstated after this heavy defeat and if the latest gossip is true then he could well be making a triumphant return to the team for Sunday's encounter.

The second game saw another high scoring thriller as The Originals twice came from behind to earn a 6-4 victory in a carnival of football. A few highlights included the competition's first penalty, which was tucked away by Phil Jones, a goal of the season contender from Joe White as he smashed a volley in from a cross from the right wing - sadly into his own net, a goal by Peter Lye - a rare occurrence and a well taken beat the last defender and finish by Phil Jones as he collected a brace on the day.

All this washes up to a double header between Black Magic and The Originals while HHH play AndyCapped 3 times in a row. Of course the last of both of these games will be the grand final weekend....

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

In the only game of the weekend, HHH United entertained AndyCapped in their Week 6 catch up game. It saw the two sides who are competing to avoid the wooden spoon have a preliminary final as to who was to take the first win of the season between them. Honours on the day went to HHH who won with a comfortable 2-0 score line after goals from Brendan Gage & Robbie Petrie's 5th of the season.

There is talk on the town of next weeks games being changed to accommodate the fact that the games next week are exactly the same as the for the GRAND FINAL weekend the following week. Watch this space as to the final plans...

Also word of drinks and prize giving straight after the the GRAND FINAL. Again it's just the early stages of planning but pencil it in your diaries anyhow. And finally, there's has been rumours of 1 final match of the season the week after the finals which would see the overall winners play against the best of the rest team.

Given the final set of fixtures in the round robin were set to see the same match up as the finals, it's been decided to swap then around a bit to add a spot of variety to the final few games. So.. here's this weeks new fixtures:-

Time	Team 1		Team 2	Ref
3:00pm	The Originals	vs	HHH United	Phil Jones
4:30pm	AndyCapped	vs	Black Magic	Peter Lye

These games will count towards the league & stats so all to play for as well as a bit of pride. The refs for the finals have also been announced. They are Peter Lye for the minor final and Robbie Petrie for the grand final.

Make or break time for The Hs & Cappers
By ESPN soccer correspondent Tommy Smith

The climax of the inaugural Mt Albert Summer League is just a day away, and I'm looking forward to a couple of matches that will be a fitting finale to a great season.

Many people's pre-season favourites The Magic have been unbeaten in group play but those who have seen their last couple of matches might consider the aura of invincibility to be a little deceiving. Flattered by their 4-1 winning margin over The Hs two weeks ago, they were down right lucky to grab a late equaliser against cellar dwellers The Cappers last week. The Magic will need to be back to something like their best if they are to over-turn an Originals side brimming with confidence following their scintillating second half display last week.

But as he has all season, the phlegmatic Jessett was as unconcerned about the apparent dip in his own sides form as he was the burgeoning confidence shown by The O's "Look. We'd qualified for the final weeks ago. Those last two games for us were dead rubbers" claimed Jessett. He added "There was no way we were going to be up for those games, no way! What's more, I experimented with a couple of formations, gave a run to a couple of guys who were coming back from lay-offs. If you - or The O's - want to think we're off our game. Go ahead. That suits us fine"

Jessett confirmed he had a full squad to pick from for Saturday's final, but beyond that was giving nothing away. Not surprisingly, as the mind games ahead of Saturday's final set in, The O's manager Lye was keen to talk-down his sides chances, clearly trying to claim the underdogs tag "We are just rapt to be in the final. We've exceeded our own expectations getting this far"

What about the team for the big game? "Well, as you know, we managed to secure a couple of top-class loan signings to get us through what was something of an injury crisis. But under the Summer League regulations we've been forced to release those players now that we have a full compliment of squad regulars back on deck. But what we lose in flair, we'll more than make up for in team work, so I'll have confidence in my line-up, whatever it is in the end"

The play-off for 3rd and 4th spot is certain to be anything but an end of tournament wind-down for the teams involved. Both The Hs and the AndyCappers consider themselves hard-done by the final standings from the regular season, and both are determined not to be labelled wooden-spooners. H's manager Petrie is still seething over last week's second half capitulation to The Os "It's not bloody good enough! It may have been the last week of the regular season and there might not have been anything riding on the outcome but the players were still getting paid. If I'd had known they were going to roll-over like that then I'd have been putting a stop on the cheques. It was a disgrace. An insult to the shirt. I'm just thankful we've got a chance to make amends on Saturday. Nobody wanted to sign-off with a performance like that!"

As for the AndyCappers, their hard-luck stories are threatening to become folklore in summer league. For the second time in the competition a seemingly unassailable two-goal cushion was thrown away in the dying minutes, denying The Cappers their only win of the regular season. For the first time all season manager Jones was struggling to raise a smile "Look. There's no use pretending otherwise. It was a kick in the guts! To beat The Magic would have been a huge consolation prize for the lads. And we came so bloody close! The lads are down, and I know, I've got to get 'em up for Saturday. But I think we'll come right. I've heard there'll be some free beer floating about, that's normally enough to get two or three of them very interested"

So. Fine weather and a bumper crowd should mean a fitting end to what has been an enjoyable start-up season for Summer League. As has been the case nearly all the season, a couple of very tight games seems like the only outcome that can be guaranteed!

P

By Wallace & Gromit guest columnist - Wallace

Build Up

All week the excitement had been building towards the finals weekend with all 4 teams believing they could win their relevant final match. In the battle to avoid the wooden spoon there was HHH United who wanted to bounce back from a heavy 6-1 defeat last weekend but who saw off their opponents 2-0 the previous week. There was also AndyCapped who were gutted at letting slip a 4-2 lead to only draw 4-4 against table topping Black Magic. In the main event The Originals were looking to cause an upset by beating favourites Black Magic to the prize. The Originals looking very impressive after their 6-1 win last week whilst Black Magic stuttering against lowly AndyCapped. There was talk of rain for the big day but in true Summer League tradition the rain poured down overnight leaving a beautiful sunny day in its wake. The rain had even improved the pitch quality getting rid of the unwanted dust.

Wooden Spoon

Onto the first match then and a tense opening period with only Phil Jones really going close with a left footed curling shot which just went wide. From a fairly quiet opening period the game then opened up with a period full of controversy.

First up was the HHH United goal on 20 minutes. A free kick was won just outside the box. As Robbie Petrie came in to smash it goalwards the HHH United guy in the wall was seen to push the wall out of the way allowing the ball to sail through to Joss Opie to finish past the keeper.

Further controversy was to follow a couple of minutes later as Robbie Petrie and Sam Hyde tussled for the ball on the left side line. Robbie broke away with the ball whilst Sam was left lying on the ground claiming the ball was out. Petrie pulled a lovely ball across the goal for HHH to score only for Peter Lye to question the goal asking Sam whether the ball was out of play. Sam held firm that the ball was out and the goal was disallowed.

From this moment AndyCapped started to build and 3 minutes after the 3rd period restarted they were level after lovely build up play through the middle and the right wing sent Ricky Boyd clear in the area with Joe White also free to his left. Ricky didn't need him as he placed a shot past the keeper. Spurred on by this it was HHH turn to come close with an excellent corner from the die hard Petrie, making his final appearance for the club. The ball curled in with the wind and was heading for the far top corner before Corb energetically turned it over the bar.

Back came AndyCapped as a through ball found Joe White in the area on the left hand side. He smashed the ball past keeper to give AndyCapped a half time lead.

After the break things started turning AndyCapped's way as they continued to create good chances and looking tight at the back. They were rewarded after 64 minutes when Joe White picked up a bouncing ball on the right wing and smashed a shot on the volley from 25 metres out catching the keeper out at his near post as it screamed into the net. 3-1 to the Cappers.

One period left. AndyCapped were here last week with a lead of 2 goals and only managed a draw. Would it be repeated? It looked like it could when Peter Lye gave HHH a lifeline with a penalty when Sam Hyde was adjudged to have pushed the forward. Robbie Petrie stepped up confidently and smashed the ball to Corb's left. Corb managed to pull off a magnificent reflex action to stick a hand out and push the ball onto the bar and away to safety. With screams from Corb, the manager and Andrew Jessett on the sideline that this was the wake up call they required, AndyCapped regained composure and managed to hold out for the rest of the period to gain their first win of the season and avoid the wooden spoon.

Grand Final

Both teams looked edgy as they took to the field in what was always going to be a tough encounter.  Team news saw The Originals welcome back a few injuries with the return of Johnny De Gregorio & Robbie Romijn. Black Magic decided to bring the whole squad along as they tried to counter the heat with a squad of 13. The game kicked off but certainly not into life as neither team wanted to concede the first goal. Not many chances were forthcoming as all the play was in the middle with neither team breaking down the opposition's defence.

Something had to give and it took until the 32nd minute for Anton De Gregorio to fire Black Magic into the lead. This was exactly what the game needed as The Originals came out of their shells a bit more. Although still 1-0 at half time it didn't take long for The Originals to get back on level terms as a cross from the left eluded everyone apart from Peter Lye at the back post who smashed the ball past Gareth Knight for his second goal of the campaign on 51 minutes.

It wasn't level for long as Black Magic hit back with a goal on 55 minutes. A long punt up the pitch saw the ball bouncing just outside the area. Goal keeper Michael Wray came rushing out, took his hat off to head it, thought he was in his area and went to catch it and then realised he wasn't. In the confusion Wade De Graaff sneaked in to toe poke the ball past the helpless keeper and pass it into the empty net.

Once again though it only took 2 minutes for The Originals to get on level terms. A well worked move on the left found Paul Muollo in the middle on the 6 yard line. He slipped his marker and buried for his 8th of the season and level the match for the second time.

As the crowd were willing the game to finish to go to penalties, a penalty was awarded on 60 minutes against The Originals for a handball in the box. Antony Volpicelli stepped up to take the kick and slotted in the corner only for it to be retaken after some tom foolery by Johnny De Gregorio on the edge of the box. Unphased TV stepped up again, put it in the same spot and put Black Magic 3-2 ahead.

As time ticked on, The Originals became more desperate and nearly had an equaliser as Paul Muollo got clear on the left to send a fizzing ball across the box which just eluded everyone.

A couple more chances came The O's way as Johnny De Gregorio came close. Even Michael Wray entertained the crowd by running up into Black Magic's half with the last corner of the game but it wasn't to be and Black Magic were crowned champions.

Player

Team

Goals

After the game had finished the players were entertained by Andrew 'The Chef' Jessett and his amazing sausage trick. A fine sausage sizzle along with beers a plenty was laid on by the management team which everyone stayed back and enjoyed. There was then the small matter of the prize giving with Peter Lye doing the honours.

First up was the player of the season awards per team. Each player was awarded a crate of beer for their efforts

Corb Tate for AndyCapped:

Andy Middlemiss for HHH United:

Michael Wray for The Originals:

 

Martin Baker for Black Magic:

Onto the overall prizes now. First up was the top goal scorer which went to Paul Muollo of The Originals for his 8 strikes including 2 hat tricks.

Next was the Player of The Season award as voted for by the referees and each player. This season saw HHH United player Steve Gadd or Dancer as he's better known take out the award.

Last but by no means least was the presentation of the overall winners trophy. Island Bay United club chairman Craig Thompson was on hand to present the Mike Jessett Snr trophy named after Michael & Andrew's father who was a great servant of Island Bay Football Club.