The 2008 season... Here we go, here we go, here we go... The draw for the 2008 season is here, with Ravens resuming their quest for their first ever 1st division premier league premiership in the ten team GHFA Premier League. Stay tuned for regular updates and breaking news. If you've got a spare five hours, you can access our 2003 and 2002 and 2004 and 2005 and 2006 and 2007archives right here. The Gladesville Ravens Premier League 2008 fixture list
Check out www.ghfa.com.au and try negotiating their tricky results and tables feature..
Dave Brennan's screamer at Nth Epping Oval is the odds on favourite at this stage. An absolute cracker!! The Man of the Match awards, handed out by the captains after each game, is the most coveted of awards - a trophy at the presentation night awaits. Table up Pennant Hills (H).
Gladesville Ravens 10 A sweltering summers day greeted the two teams, despite it being March, as they marched out onto Gladesville Reserve for the official banner swapping and hand shakes. The Charity Shield was finally here!! The red and white Vs from Marrickville up against the mighty Gladesville Ravens…a fixture that excites even the most fickle footballing enthusiast. The Ravens took to the field with close to a full strength side, despite missing Courtenay, Stu Mac, John Cheyney and Anthony Vatalis. The supporters were to get their first glimpse of the new players, Chris and Rick Giometti, Navman and David Brennan and they weren't to be disappointed with all 4 getting on the scoresheet. With a 4-4-2 formation being incorporated for the 2008 season, Joel found himself in the unfamiliar position of right back, with Chris Gio and Dave Brennan at the heart of defence and Robbie at left back. Zorbie and Rick Gio manned the centre of the park, with Sprio on the left and Alec on the right. Navman started up front with Roidsy. The Ravens kicked off and kept possession for a couple of minutes, before disaster struck for Roidsy. Joel played a through ball to his feet. He controlled it superbly, turned and then tried to dink a gentle cross, but succeeded in only tearing his quad. He was replaced with James Koussas, son of former Ravens favourite Mark Koussas, and he took over from where his Dad left of immediately by banging in the Ravens first goal. The lead wasn't to last long and Marrickville equalised not long after when Robbie was adjudicated to have fouled the Marrickville number 9 in the box. Vatalis, who was refereeing, meekly pointed to the spot, but was having trouble working his whistle. The penalty was duely converted and the scores were level. Not for long though as Navid rounded the keeper and slotted home the Ravens second. After sending one out on the full and another into the crowd, Joel finally got one right as his ball from the right found Zorbie unmarked at the far post. His header however was well saved by the Marrickville keeper. It was soon 3-1 when Dave Brennan screamed onto a ball that Zorbie was trying to tee up for a shot. It was well left in the end by the Ravens number 8, as DB drilled the ball into the bottom corner from 20 yards. The Ravens struck again a couple of times before the break but I cannot remember who scored them. There was a classy finish from Joel though, doing his chances of being promoted to striker no harm. Chris, Robbie, Rick and Nav all banged in a few more goals, before some sloppy defending and poor goal keeping allowed the red and whites a couple of consolation goals. 10-3 was the final score, and although the weakened opposition were not able to provide the Ravens with a stern test, they were at least better for the hit out.
Gladesville Ravens 5 The Meadowbank Canal-side Stadium was to be the venue for the Ravens second pre-season friendly and they were up against the second division outfit Carlingford Redbacks, who already had 4 games under their belt against some quality opposition. With this in mind, the Ravens feared they may be slightly under done and expected a much tougher game than their first friendly. A changed side again, with Dave Brennan, Navman and Roidsy all missing from last week's game and Courtenay, Vatalis and Stu Mac all still absent. Nick Christou came in to replace DB and Josi came in to replace Navman. Alec was switched to left midfield, with Johan coming in at right midfield allowing Spiro to join Josi up front. Purcy was the goal keeping custodian. The Ravens fell behind early on, as Francis Awaritefe got the better of Nick Christou and slotted the ball past the advancing Purcelli. But the Ravens struck back not long after when Rick Gio slotted a through ball into the path of the overlapping right back Joel. He took one touch to control before curling the ball into the top left corner from just inside the edge of the 18 yard box. Almost immediately the Redbacks regained the lead after some more forgettable defending - so forgettable I can't actually remember what happened. The game then got a little heated as a few niggly challenges started to creep into the game, as the Ravens got a little frustrated with the scoreline and the over zealous challenges from one or two of the Redback players. Just before the break Spiro levelled the scores after a deflected ball fell to his feet with almost an empty net. His shot somehow nutmegged the defender on it's way into the back of the net. Alec then missed a golden opportunity to put the Ravens ahead, but somehow lifted his shot onto the cross bar from about 2 yards with an open goal staring him in the face. He later was to request his profile to be changed, so that his most embarrassing moment would reflect this miss. So 2-2 at half time and Coach Chris spoke of the need to be able to grind out a win, depsite not playing well or having our best team on the park. It would be these games during the season, where a win was achieved despite not playing at out best, that would decide our fate. The second half opened up a little and the Redbacks seemed to tire somewhat. Joel and Johan on the right were finding plenty of time and space and the Ravens began to dominate possession. Josi was to make it 3-2 to the Ravens with a nice left footed finish from just inside the 18 yard box, before Zorbie extended the lead to 4-2 from the penalty spot after the young referee spotted a foul somewhere. Rick Gio then rounded off a lovely Ravens move that started at the back, moved to Joel on the right who found Johan in the centre who then threaded a through ball to Rick. He controlled beautifully before rounding the keeper and rolling the ball into the back of the net. 5-2 to the Ravens, but they then took their foot off the pedal and allowed the Redbacks back into the game. Twice the Ravens were caught flat at the back and twice they were made to pay for their mistake. Despite this the Ravens were never in danger of losing the game and they kept possession for the final few minutes to ensure they recorded back to back victories. Ravens Thwarted By Refereeing Incompetence!!
West Pennant Hills
2 The new look Ravens were drawn to meet West Pennant Hills in the 1st round of the 2008 season, one of the powerhouses of the GHFA in recent years, and would need all the guile and cunning that the new coaching staff and playing roster could muster. A first up game at Campbell Park is one of the least preferred options for any side, but the one good thing is that you are guaranteed to get a little bit of grass at least and a cricket pitch that is still offering plenty of bounce. The Ravens took to the park missing Dave Brennan through suspension and Anthony Vatalis through injury, whilst Courtenay Randall and Stu McAllister were given a spot on the bench along with Spiro Courtis, Steve Zalalas and Stuey Jackson. Despite a few players missing, the team that took to the field was still strong, and the 4-4-2 formation looked formidable. Paul Purcell in goals was well supported by the back four of Joel, Chris Gio, John Cheyney and Robbie Volpato. Dan Lucas started on the left of midfield with Alec on the right and Nick Zorbas and Rick Gio manned the centre of the park. Pete Josi and the Navman were to start up front, in a bid to open the Ravens account for 2008. The first half will only ever be remembered for some farcical refereeing and plenty of theatrics from players on both sides, but it must be mentioned that the Ravens completely and utterly dominated their more fancied opponents. Possession weighed heavily in the Ravens favour and alot of that was maintained inside the West Penno half. Despite their territorial dominance and their more sublime football skills, the Ravens found themselves a goal down when a corner was floated in and found a West Penno midfielder unmarked, or at least unchallenged. Purcy had called for it, but he could do no more than flap at it as it sailed beyond him and onto the midfielder's head, who nodded the ball into the vacant net. Up the other end again went the Ravens, and first Navman and then Josi went close, the latter's spin and shot mis-hit before being flicked onto the cross bar and away to safety. Zorbie then went close with a long range pile driver and Chris tried his luck with a free kick that couldn't find its way through the wall. Rick Gio was tugged down by what appeared to be the last man, but the referee deemed otherwise. Not long after though he awarded the Ravens a penalty for blatant hand ball after good work down the left by Lucas and Navman. This was Ravens chance to get back in the game and back on the road to victory, but alas it wasn't to be. Zorbie pushed his shot wide of the post, and the keeper despite guessing the right way, did not have to lay a hand on the ball. The frustration levels increased for the Ravens, and moments later Navman was in the book for a rather innocuous challenge on the West Penno defender, before being shown a second yellow card for something that didn't even warrant a free kick. Navman couldn't believe it and trudged dejectedly from the field as the half time whistle sounded. The Ravens were livid that a premier league referee could brandish a yellow card for something so minor, and captain Joel had lengthy words with the referee before making his way into the dressing sheds. The Ravens were now up against it, but all believed they could still get a result. Being down a player made life difficult for the away side, and despite their positive play and enterprising forays forward, they were always susceptible to the counter attack, and but for some goal keeping heroics from Purcy and some desperation defending, West Penno's lead could have been extended. Coach Chris Gio had to make changes, and Courtenay, Spiro, Zedman and Stu McAllister all entered the fray, hoping to create or score the equaliser. Josi had been outstanding up front for the entire game but welcomed the injection of speed that Courts brought to the table. As the game wore on, West Penno finally got their second, after another fast break from the back. It was an unlucky goal as the ball just missed the out stretched boot of Stu Mac, but only by a whisker, which was enough to leave Purcy unsighted, allowing the ball to run past him, despite a late dive. Some more yellow cards were issued and some further verbal jousts were had, but the game petered out and the full time whistle sounded, leaving the Ravens to rue what might have been. A spirited effort nonetheless and a performance that showed promise for the remainder of the season.
Reserves Go Down At West Pennant Hills!!
West Pennant Hills
3 Football on a Saturday, the smell of the turf, deep heat in the sheds and all the ladies lining up to watch the games (maybe)... It's great to be back. The Ravens Reserves enter 2008 with a blend of past Ravens and fresh new faces and after a solid 3 month pre-season, there's plenty of optimism on how this season will shape up on the park. The 2008 campaign started away against West Penno @ Campbell Park, a place that hasn't been a happy hunting ground for the Ravens over the years, especially in Reserve Grade. On a pitch that is probably as wide as Peel Park is long, playing smart possession football with plenty of heart was the call from Stuey the gaffer in a stirring pre-match talk. The team to take the park was one of the strongest Reserve Grade sides fielded for years. Keeper Aman returned to the Ravens PL after a 1 season loan to the O/35s. Phil Mac & Argy lined up as centre-backs, continuing the solid defensive partnership of the 2007 team. Johan & Sheepy filled out the backline that knew it would have a long day at the office with a very youthful WPH team (most looked as though they had yet to start shaving), playing a flat back 4. Hard man Brad McIndoe slotted in front of the defence. A mixture of youth and experience across the middle of the park with new signing Moises, captain Zedman & young Koussas, son of a Ravens legend. Stuey put himself at striker, keen to make the most of the expansive pitch. Another new signing, Anthony Gallo joined Stuey up front, after he had the very foreign feeling of pulling on the black and white shirt in the away shed @ Campbell, after a long career with WPH, before taking the park. A very strong bench eager to get on the park included Simon H, Johnny Blundell (signed from Wolves) & Dave Hunt. The game got off to a good start for the Ravens, with the ball being passed around well from defence to midfield, and with the team looking sharp; West Penno did not get much of the ball for the first ten minutes. However, in what was most definitely against the run of play West Penno decided to resort to some pommie long ball tactics, smacked the ball up the pitch behind our defence, their attacker was quick to run onto the ball leaving himself one on one with Aman who was left with little chance as the ball was slotted past him. 1 – 0 West Penno. Despite the setback the Ravens heads did not drop and the same lively play continued, with the midfield dominant and some good long range efforts coming close to the mark, Johan’s curling effort very nearly finding the top corner. But, yet again shortly before the half hour mark, West Penno booted the ball long, got a favourable bounce on a pitch that had more bunkers than a golf course, with the striker then one on one with the keeper again and in. 2 – 0 West Penno. For the final fifteen of the half West Penno picked up a little bit and began to control a little more of the possession, boosted by the favourable score, yet the besides the scoreline the game was evenly matched. And then… bang, if it worked twice try again, boot the ball long, get the ball beoynd the defensive line and despite Phil’s best efforts to run down striker it was all done. Half Time: 3 – 0 to West Penno The second half began with Dave Hunt coming on for Argy in the centre of defence. As the match progressed the Ravens continued to dominate possession in the midfield, passing it around neatly, with Brad imperious in front of the defence and the Zedman running past players as if they weren’t there. However, too often the run of the ball and slant of the refs one eye went in West Penno’s favour. The yellows cards started to be shown in the second, Stuey got one for some innocuous pat on the keepers back as he went for a fifty-fifty ball, Sheepy and Johan also received cards for challenges that my grandmother would have laughed at (although she is quite a fearsome figure). There were few clear cut chances in the second half for either side, and whilst the two substitutions by Ravens of Simon and then John added some injection of pace to some tired midfield legs, only a couple more shots from the Ravens ensued. West Penno produced little of note in the second half after the Ravens defence had learnt well the harsh lessons of playing a flat back 4 from the first half. So a 3-0 loss highlights plenty of room for improvement, but a very solid 2nd half and some good passing movements shows promising signs ahead of the return to Fortress Peel Stadium next week to host Epping Eastwood. With Ladies Day @ Peel, there's sure to be a bumper crowd there in support of the boys.
Gladesville Ravens 4 After losing in a tight and controversial season opener, the Ravens returned home to Peel Park for their first home game of the season against the highly fancied Epping Eastwood, who had run out 3-0 victors the previous week. A bumper crowd was expected and the fact that it was Ladies Day only added to the gala atmosphere, as gorgeous girls turned up in droves hoping to get a glimpse of their favourite players. A few changes were made to the starting line up, as the Ravens looked to take all 3 points from their first home game. Courtenay started up front with Josi in place of the suspended Navman, whilst Dave Brennan joined Zorbie in the middle of the park, replacing Rick Gio who was given a spot on the bench for disciplinary reasons. The injured John Cheyney was replaced by Stu Mac and Zedman was given a starting spot in his favoured position behind the strikers. Joel won the toss and elected to run away from the fabled Canteen End, as tradition dictated, despite Purcy, who really should have known better, wanting to run the other way because of the sun. This meant the Ravens would be running towards their loyal fans in the second half, a supporter based described by some as the equal of that found in Anfield. Epping Eastwood kicked off, and it was to be one of their only touches of the first half, as the Ravens completely and utterly dominated possession, playing some delightful football in the process. Courtenay and Josi were on fire up front, turning the defenders inside out on numerous occasions, both unlucky not to bag a goal after solo efforts. Zorbie and Dave Brennan were dynamite in the middle of the park, winning the ball and distributing efficiently, and it was a beautiful through ball from DB that set up the first goal from Courts, as he raced onto it, outpacing his marker and then nutmegging the keeper. 1-0 to the Ravens and a lead that was thoroughly deserved, but they refused to rest on their laurels and went about trying to score a second. A cross was flashed across the face of goal which somehow evaded Josi's right boot, Chris Gio rattled the bar with a curling free kick, and Joel skipped away down the right flank before crossing for Courtenay only to see the ball narrowly cleared over the cross bar by a desperate defender. With 10 to go before the break, a dubious free kick was awarded outside the Ravens box wide on the right. It was taken quickly, and poor marking allowed the big blonde striker to get his head to the ball before sweeper Joely and loop it over the stranded Purcy. A great header, but a goal completely against the run of play, and one that led to Zorbie earning a yellow card for continual questioning of the referee. Half time came and the boys jogged off at 1-1 knowing that had played some good football and could go on and win the game in the second half. No changes were made 10 minutes into the second half and the Ravens found themselves 2-1 up, after Alec was fouled in the box allowing Pete Josi to convert from the penalty spot. It was finger nail biting stuff though, as the slightly miss-hit penalty just scraped inside the post with the keeper closing in. More glorious Ravens play ensued, with the defence dominant and the midfield creative, but Epping Eastwood were again given a life line when Chris Gio was adjudged to have handballed inside the 18 yard box, and despite Purcy getting a hand to the penalty, he couldn't keep it out. 2-2 soon became 3-2 to the Tigers, as Joel could do more than get a touch on the ball with his head, deflecting it into the path of the EEW striker, who calmly slotted the ball beyond Purcy. Stu Mac perhaps could have won the header, being in a slightly better position than Joel, but a small communication break down prevented this from happening. The only blight so far, on what had been an otherwise stellar performance from Joel, Stu and Chris at the back. The Ravens of old may have thrown in the towel at this point, but these days the Ravens are made of sterner stuff, and they continued to play positively. Zed, who had played with skill and flair throughout the game, was replaced by Rick Gio and Zorbie was substituted in favour of Simon Hutchings, with the Ravens needing fresh legs to get them over the line. Roidsy was also brought on and with his very first touch he won a penalty after he was sandwiched just inside the penalty spot. And it was with his second touch of the game that he scored, converting the penalty to bring the scores level. His penalty also had the home supporters on the edge of their seats though. He he opted for power and just managed to keep it under the cross bar after the keeper had got a hand to it. Not long after, some neat work on the right by Rick Gio saw the ball crossed into Dave Brennan who who headed home from 8 yards. The players and fans went wild, sensing they had their first win of the season. Epping Eastwood didn't really threaten in the final 5 minutes, but Roidsy had two great chances to kill off the game. The first saw him dally too long on the edge of the 18 yard box before being dispossessed and the other was a one on one with the keeper, but he launched the ball over the canteen with the goal at his mercy. Not to worry though as the full time whistle sounded, giving the Ravens 3 well earned points and the chance to test the tonsils with a stirring rendition of the team song, not heard since relegation was avoided last season. Next up the Ravens travel to Nth Epping which as always will be a tough encounter. Come on the mighty Ravens!!
Reserves Go Down To Epping Eastwood!!
Gladesville Ravens 0 A beautiful, clear Saturday afternoon greeted the Ravens Reserves for their hotly anticipated first home game of the season at fortress Peel Stadium. It was also Ladies Day at Peel, with the champagne flowing and all the women glowing, it was almost like being at the Melbourne Cup. Phil Mac even brought his suit along, dusted off from his last court appearance for drunk and disorderly no doubt (he said it was for a wedding), to do his best to impress those present. The team to take the park saw a few changes from the previous week. Aman maintained his position between the sticks, with Phil Mac and Dave Hunt lining up as centre-backs. Daniel Lucas and Sheepy made up the rest of the back four who were under instructions from the gaffer to hold a flat back line in attack and then revert to a sweeper, with Dave Hunt cleaning up the back, whenever EEW were attacking. The Ravens could not call upon the services of Brad or the Zedman this week and so looked to use a untried central midfield partnership of Anthony Gallo and Johan to bring the ball out from defence. On either flank speed was the order of the day with Spiro “faster than a speeding bullet” Courtis on the right and Sheepy’s brother Adam (aka Da Lamb!!) bounding down the left. To round out the team, up front saw a good mix of experience and youthful exuberance with the gaffer Stuey lining up alongside Koussas. It looked to be a strong and quick line up from the Ravens to take on the Epping Eastwood mob. The bench saw Johnny Blundell, Argy, Simon and Moises all ready and raring to go. The game got off to a distinctly shaky start for the Ravens. The first ten minutes saw EEW come out hard and fast, attacking hard and managing to hit the wood work on a few occasions within that first ten minutes, but for some resolute defending from the boys at the back, and some inspired marshalling from Aman, the visitors could have been 1 or 2 up quite early on. However, the Ravens weathered the storm and settled into the same stride as last week, with some solid passing movements, holding the ball well, and building the play from the back. Unfortunately, just as the Ravens looked to be getting in to their stride after 15-20 minutes had gone in the game some Ravens players began to fall by the wayside. Sheepy was the first to take a knock on his ankle and spent some time looking decidedly uncomfortable, however, he was able to run it out and pick himself up for the time being. The substitutes were soon warming up, and thanks to the ref had to do so without shirts on to avoid confusion with those on the pitch, fair enough I guess, and the ladies were certainly getting hot under the collar ogling the taught bodies (man-boobs?) preparing themselves up and down the line. Lucas, in a brave attempt to get the ball pulled his groin and was unable to continue. Simon came on to replace Lucas in the back line. Shortly afterwards it was Koussas’ turn to leave the field, a head cold proving to be too much to cope with on the field for the youngster. Johnny came on for Koussas to partner Stuey up front. The forced substitutions did not disrupt the momentum that the Ravens had built up, passing smoothly and getting the ball into the final third well, although the run of the ball was not in our favour and few clear-cut chances on goal ensued. Whilst EEW may have started off strongly it was definitely the Ravens that controlled the last fifteen of the half and were looking good for the start of the second. Half Time: 0-0 The second half began with an unchanged line up for the Ravens as they looked to continue the half where they had left the first. However, after the first five minutes displaying some good play, the Ravens went behind to a goal which, let’s be fair, was a fluke. Whilst admittedly the run up to the goal began with some lacklustre defending of a throw in near the box by the Ravens, the finish by the EEW scorer was the sort leaping karate kid snap at the ball you see eight year olds try on the field, the fact that he connected cleanly with the ball and then it managed to loop into the far corner of the net over Aman showed that the gods were not on the Ravens side today. It is unquestionable that the EEW player has not scored a goal like that before, will never again and there is also no doubt he has been bending his poor old grannies ear off about the goal he scored on the weekend ever since. On any other day the guy should have fallen flat on his arse after skying the ball wide, pure luck. 1-0 to EEW. The bad run of play did not stop there. This ten minute period at the start of the second saw EEW score another quick fire goal to make it 2-0 before the Ravens even had chance to stop checking out the fine group of females that were amassing on the side lines. Phil Mac’s effort in blocking said striker’s next shot resulted in screams of pain for a stuffed toe before he came off for Argy, with Stuey having already made way for Moises. Soon after, the Ravens fell asleep and again paid the price, harsh lessons to learn but ones best done at the start of the season and then never to be repeated. 3-0 to EEW. The rest of the half held much hope for the future of the Ravens reserves. The Ravens moved to three at the back with Argy as a holding midfielder as the Ravens pushed forward. Despite the score line heads remained high and the Ravens controlled much of the half. Johan and Gallo were in total control of the midfield, whilst Da Lamb and Spiro made some piercing runs down the flanks. Moises had the best chance of the game for the Ravens after taking the ball into the box past a defender placed a shot to the right of the EEW keeper who was unfortunately equal to it. The Ravens were in total control for the final fifteen with the strikers making numerous runs, dragging the defence out of position and making space for the midfield to attack the box. However, once again the gods were on EEW side, the run of the ball did not go Ravens way and the ball just couldn’t find its way in to the back of the net. So another 3-0 loss, but a very solid 1st half and some good passing movements and attacking play in the second provides a lot of hope going into round 3. The goals will come for the Ravens reserves, and when they do there will be many. Out of darkness cometh light! Bring on Nth Epping.
Discipline, Style & 3 Points!!
Nth Epping
1 In the previous two seasons, the Ravens had traveled to Nth Epping late in the season where their hopes of 1st division survival were hanging in the balance, but this season was different. The round 3 fixture saw the Ravens brimming with confidence after an early win, whilst the Rangers, having lost a few players from the year before, were yet to register their first win. Chris Gio had again wielded the discipline axe during the week, dropping Zorbie to the bench for his yellow card against the Tigers, allowing Rick Gio back into the run on side. Navid also returned to starting line up, in place of the impressive Josi, to partner livewire Courts up front. The rest of the side remained unchanged, although Zed was to play a more central midfield role as opposed to last week where he played in behind the strikers. The Ravens settled quickly and for the first 30 minutes played some extraordinary football. They kept possession for long periods and when they did lose the ball they were very quick to win it back, as both Rick Gio and Dave Brennan worked tirelessly in the middle of the park, making life easy for the defenders behind them. Paul Purcell did not have to make a save the whole first half, and Joel, Chris and Stu Mac were able to play the ball out from the back comfortably. Up front the Ravens were looking sharp and many chances were created. Dave Brennan had a header miraculously cleared off the line, Alec went close from distance, Navid blazed over and Courtenay sprayed the ball wide from a tight angle. The relentless pressure finally saw the Nth Epping rear guard crack after Stu Mac played a beautiful ball across to Navid, who controlled well before drilling the ball into the back of the net. A deserved lead, but one the Ravens could not add to before the break. Despite playing well, the job was only half done and the Ravens spoke about the need to start the second half as they had the first if they were to get all 3 points. That they did, and again they knocked the ball around well, probing wide and down the channels as they looked to catch the Nth Epping defence napping. With 15 minutes gone, Dave Brennan scored what could well be the goal of the season. A corner was only partially cleared and the ball fell to DB just outside the 18 yard box on the right hand side. He had plenty of work to do though as the ball had bounced just beyond him at about waist height. With his back to goal he swiveled sharply, swinging his left boot into ball, hooking the ball goalwards at breakneck speed. It swerved and dipped before flying in off the under side of the cross bar in the top left corner. An absolute screamer, and one that dropped the heads of the Rangers whilst lifting the spirits of the Ravens. Changes were made. Alec was replaced by Zorbie after succumbing to a bruised foot and Courtenay made way for Josi after he run himself into the ground. Chris Gio also came off having been unable to shake the flu and was replaced by Anthony Gallo. The Ravens had further chances to finish off the game. Nav had two great scoring opportunities but drilled one shot wide and the other saw him attempt to round the keeper but get forced too wide in the process. Josi also went close after 2 Sterlo-esque chip and chases put him in on goal but he could not hit the target. As the clock ticked away the Ravens slackened off somewhat and invited the opposition back into the game with 15 minutes to go. Nth Epping by this stage had pushed 3 people up front and were starting to cause problems for the Ravens defence, and Purcy was required to make two good saves in quick succession. With under 60 seconds to go the Ravens finally cracked and conceded a soft goal on the far post. The referee blew full time before the game could be re-started, but the Ravens were gutted that they had conceded. Not a bad thing and something to be worked on at training. Despite the late goal, the Ravens performance had been impressive and they looked ahead to their clash with St Andrews with renewed optimism. Come on the mighty Ravens!!
Nth Epping 1 A spirited end to their last match and a solid training run provided a great lead in to the game away at North Epping. With a surprising amount of grass on the pitch and a centre wicket area that looked much better than it's usual unforgiving concrete feel, the scene was set for the Ravens to chase their first win of the season. A first grade call up (Anthony Gallo), wedding (Stuey the gaffer) and a wisdom tooth removal (John Blundell) again brought about changes to the starting line up. Aman commanded his usual position between the sticks. Adam 'Young Man Lamb', Phil Mac, Johnny Cheyney & Simon lined up accross the backline with Brad the enforcer in front of them. Moises, Nick Christou, Johan & Spiro accross the middle of the park offering plenty of control and pace, with Roids playing the Viduka-style target man up front. It was a frenetic opening 20 minutes or so with plenty of movement up and down the park from both sides with a couple of half chances missed by both teams. This settled with the Ravens controlling the ball and finding plenty of space through Simon & Adam to play the ball from the back and hold possession. But it was playing from the back that brought about the first goal from the NERds after Brad mis-kicked trying to move it wide. Their boy-ish striker (is he 16 or 17?) hit it wide of an outstretched Aman from outside the box and Ravens were 1-0 down. The mighty Ravens weren't going to lie down though, with the game opening up and some fantastic play through the midfield. On one such attack, the ball fell to the feet of Roids who buried it through plenty of traffic to draw the scores level. A screamer of an outside shot from Brad that met a wall of defence soon followed, but it was 1-1 at the half. A very composed chat at the half from captain Nick and the part-time gaffer Lucas where the Ravens knew the game was there for the taking. Not long after play resumed and the Ravens were at it again with Spiro and Moises providing plenty of pace to keep the NERds defence on their toes. Dave Hunt came on for Roids, with Spiro moving up front and Dave out wide with plenty of time for the game to go either way. It was the Ravens that were the ones to take control... A beautiful ball out wide to Dave, perfect cross in, and some fine finishing from Johan and the Ravens took a 2-1 lead. After a settled period where neither team really took the ascendancy, the game opened up again with NERds pushing an extra man or 2 up front to try and snatch one. This gave super trainer Dave Gallo who'd come on for Moises plenty of space, giving their defence a real headache every time the Ravens had the ball in their half. The Ravens defence was under the pump for the last 10 or so with 3 or 4 strikers on the attack, but the Ravens weren't going to let them take points away and held on strong. 2-1 it finished to the Ravens, a gutsy finish and a satisfying win to the black & white. A very loud and proud sing ensued, the first for ressies in the shed at North Epping for a few years. EVERYWHERE WE GO...
Gladesville Ravens 1 After recording back to back wins against Epping Eastwood and then Nth Epping, the Ravens were full of confidence, but two weeks of rain had slowed their momentum, and made the tough fixture against Thornleigh even tougher. Thornleigh had been touted as one of the teams to make the top 4, and results in the first couple of games had done nothing to indicate otherwise. The Ravens were only missing Robbie, who was away wine tasting in the Hunter Valley. Dave Brennan was the one asked to move out to left back, meaning Zorbie would partner Rick Gio in the middle of the park. The rest of the side was the same that started at Nth Epping. The game kicked off with Thunder putting immediate pressure on the Ravens ball players, giving them little time to get settled, a tactic that seemed to work as the Ravens appeared rusty and slow. Chances were kept to a minimum early on as both sides tried to get the upper hand - Ravens trying to keep possession and play out from the back, whilst Thornleigh adopted the more direct route, sending long balls from the back and the flanks. A free kick was awarded to the Thunder about 5 metres outside the box. This was struck directly into the wall, but the referee strangely ruled that one of the Ravens players had encroached when no-one in the wall had moved, so Thornleigh got to take the free kick again. This time the ball beat the wall but appeared to be covered by Purcy who had to move only a step to his left. Seeming to misjugde the pace of the ball, Pucy could only parry it into the path of the Thunder midfielder who was left with a simple tap in. Not long after the Ravens made things worse for themselves. A scramble in the 18 yard box meant Chris Gio had to put his body on the line to clear the ball, but the Thornleigh player advancing at speed crashed straight into him, his shoulder hitting his and head and knocking him to the ground. The referee had no hesitation in brandishing the yellow card for the challenge, but an incensed Rick Gio could not keep his emotions in check, and some irate words directed towards the referee earned him his second yellow card and an early shower. This left a hole in the Ravens midfield, and meant Zed had to drop back into the middle of the park after starting in the hole behind the strikers. The Ravens battled bravely, but nearly went 2-0 down when Purcy tried to square a ball to Chris Gio, only to hit it straight to the Thunder striker. Somehow he managed to skew his shot wide of the goals from 16 yards when it would have been easier to score. A massive let off for the Ravens which led to their luck getting even better, as a great ball from Dave Brennan released Navid in on goal. His defender tried to stay with him but was adjudged to have used his shoulder illegally to do so, giving Navid the opportunity to send the Ravens level from the penalty spot. He duely obliged and the Ravens ran into the sheds at 1-1 but a man down. Chris Gio's half time speech was a groggy one and he was visibly off with the fairies, but the side rallied around him as they endeavoured to get something out of this game. The game opened up in the second half and it freely flowed from end to end, both sides having some half chances, with Thornleigh probably getting the better of these as Purcy was forced to make a handful of excellent saves. The Thunder continued to press with their numerical advantage and the Ravens started to tire, eventually getting caught on the break. The striker hit his shot sweetly but Purcy was able to get a hand on it, deflecting up and over him but towards the goal. It seemed to be going to drop under the bar and Joel chased desparately to get in position to clear it, but it landed on top of the cross bar, and rolled agonisingly back down into the field of play. With Joel's momentum taking him the other way into the back of the goals, he could not get into reverse quick enough to beat the advancing Thunder player to the ball, who had another simple tap in to execute. Hard luck for the Ravens, but they didn't give up. Changes were made with Chris Gio making way for Gallo, Roidsy coming on for Alec and the injured Zorb was replaced by Nick Christou. With about 15 minutes to go, a Thunder player was giving his marching orders for a second yellow card challenge, and the Ravens found a third wind knowing they were now back on an even keel. Try as they might, the ball refused to find its way into the back of the net, and the Ravens knew it was not going to be their day when a nice shot from Roidsy on the turn beat the keeper but bounced back off the post and somehow bounced in between Courts and Navid who would have had a tap in to equalise. So 2-1 was the final score. Probably a fair enough result, although the Ravens were unlucky not to jag an equaliser at the end. A tough two weeks follow, with games at Pennant Hills and then home against Normo certainly set to test the Ravens meddle. Thornleigh will get to continue their impressive start to the season against Roselea next week followed by a trip to St Andrews the week after.
Ravens Take The Points At Peel!!
Gladesville Ravens 2 After 2 weeks off, the Ravens were itching to get back on the park and where better to return than Peel Stadium. With the smell of souvlakia in the air and the pitch in beautiful condition, it was one of the strongest reserve grade line-ups to take the park in many years to face a Thornleigh Chunder team yet to take a point in 2008. A few call-ups to first grade, with Chris rotating his bench, resulted in the following team to take the field... Back to a 3-5-2 this week: Aman in goals, Phil Mac & John Cheyney again as centre backs with Georgie V to call the shots from behind them and ever reliable Brad McIndoe in front. Adam and Simon Payet out wide with Simon Hutcho & Dave Hunt in the middle of the park. Father-to-be Pete Josi & Roids were paired up front, keen to put a few in the back of the net. Spiro, Stu Jacko, Greg Sheepy & Argie filled out the reserves. The game started with plenty of pace but was barely 2 minutes old when drama first struck... A free kick to Ravens in their own half and Georgie V lined up to take it. The sniper was back to haunt him, with Georgie V hitting the deck without even getting to the ball. Early change with Spiro coming on out wide and Dave Hunt into the defence, a torn calf muscle the early diagnosis. The next 1/2 hour or so saw the 2 teams playing very different styles of football... Thornleigh playing countless balls down the Ravens left side before whipping in plenty of long balls and half-decent crosses, Aman doing plenty of work in marshalling the troops and making a few easy saves. The referee did his best to ensure the card count was high, handing them out to both teams for just about anything. The Ravens were moving more through the centre of the park and provided plenty of chances for the target men up front. Josi was without luck though and Roids the first to trouble the keeper, nailing a shot in close that somehow the keeper got a trailing foot or something to, denying what appeared a certain goal. Not long though and after some great lead up play down the left side, Brad smashed an outside shot, taking a lucky deflection at pace and beat the keeper. A bit of a scare when the linesman had his flag up to throw in his few cents worth... the result though a yellow card to the keeper and Ravens were up 1-0 and the half-time whistle soon followed. A composed a calm half-time talk with everyone clear in their minds that this game was far from done. The defence had been rock-solid in the 1st half and needed to continue. Thornleigh probably had the better of the first 10 after the break, and on the attack with plenty of numbers coming straight through the midfield to score, 1-1. The attendant barely had time to change the scoreboard though and the Ravens were on the attack as the game quickly opened up. Soon after, Pete Josi put his hand up from well outside the box, a flat hard shot that beat the keeper's near side.... Ravens back in front at 2-1. Stuey came on for Roids and Argie soon followed joining the Ravens backline for a high-speed finish, with Thornleigh throwing extra numbers up front to try and steal one. A very similar last 15 or so to the North Epping game a couple of weeks ago and the boys needed to show plenty of heart to tough this one out. A moment of controversy with the ref keen to get involved (not happy enough with the 8 or 9 yellows he'd dished out in what was a very clean game). The keeper had the ball in one hand shouting directions when Josi headed the ball out of his hand. Josi got a yellow card with great confusion over the rules on this one. His the decision deemed controversial enough for the young, fairly card happy ref (who otherwise had a pretty good game... in case he reads this and we get him again), to seek clarification on the GHFA Referees forum (what an exciting read that must be!) http://www.ghsra.com.au/hgforum.cl?PT=rd&age=30&TID=551 Not long after this and Josi was again 1:1 with the keeper and had him well beaten until the keeper took the law into his own hands outside the box, grabbing Josi on his run through... a send-off the only possible result. 10mins or so to go and Sheepy entered the fray, coming straight in as an extra defender. Phil Mac & Johnny Cheyney spent the last few minutes chasing, screaming and marshalling the defence to ensure the boys took all 3 points in a gutsy win at Peel Stadium. 2-1 it finished, another loud sing in the sheds and the lads all looking forward to next week to do it all over again at Penno.
Ravens Run Down In The 2nd Half!!
Pennant Hills 3 Pennant Hills have been the benchmark in recent seasons, and the Ravens traveled along the M2 knowing they would have to bring their A game if they were to get any reward for their effort. After a first round defeat to Normanhurst, the green and golds had moved quietly into the top four and one point ahead of the Ravens. The Ravens were able to take a positive out of the game even before it had kicked off, and that was to play on Pennant Hills Park early in the season and before it turned into a mud pit lined with clay. With Rick Gio serving a one match suspension and Zorbie injured, changes had to be made. John Cheyney slotted in at stopper allowing Chris Gio to move into the middle of the park, where he was joined by Alec and Dave Brennan. Stevie Zed reverted to right midfield, with Robbie returning at left midfield. Roidsy was given a starting opportunity up front alongside Nav, whilst Courtenay started on the bench with fellow splinter pickers AG, Simon Hutchings and Johan. Ravens kicked off and the first half began with both sides looking good, keeping possession and creating chances. Dave Brennan was everywhere, winning balls, making runs, taking players on and creating chances, whilst his midfield compatriot Alec, was playing just as well as he kept a close eye on Kurt as well as making his own mark on the game with the ball. It was Penno who probably should have gone ahead first though, after Joel was dispossessed by Boz just inside the Ravens half. He honed in on goal, but Purcy did well to spread his big frame and Boz forced the ball wide. Some neat play down the right by the Ravens opened up the Penno defence as Zed got in behind only to see his cross avoid everyone. But not long after the Ravens took the lead as Alec was given too much time on the edge of the 18 yard box.. His venomous curling and dipping shot would have been the goal of the season...if it was anything like I had described it, but his somewhat under hit angled drive seemed to catch the keeper napping and snuck inside the near post. Alec stood there a little bemused and shrugged his shoulders and threw his hands in the air to suggest he'll take any goal he can get. Stu Mac and John Cheney had been solid at the back and had both made some timely challenges, whilst Joel managed to snuff out one or two threatening raids himself, despite having a below average game. Roidsy then had a chance to make it 2-0 after finding space inside the 18 yard box, but he could only find the side netting from about 10 yards. Dave Brennan also had a good opportunity, as a quick one two gave him just enough time to drag a shot agonisingly wide of the far post. So 1-0 at half time and the Ravens took to the field in the second half knowing if they didn't concede then they would win the game, but this is easier said than done against a Penno side full of attacking options. So this proved as Penno scored two close range goals before the second half was even 15 minutes old, both a result of poor marking and too much ball watching. Penno would have been excused for playing a more cautious game from this point, but they kept pressing forward and the Ravens defence was under seige, repelling wave after wave of attack, and shot stopper Purcy was at the heart of it, making several fine saves to keep the Ravens in the game. Chris Gio, who was still feeling the side effects of concussion, was replaced by Simon, and Courtenay came on for the injured Navid hoping to jag an equaliser. Alec too was given a rest, as was Zed, allowing Johan and AG to enter the fray. With these forced changes the Ravens had lost a lot of their attacking impetus and too often balls were played long, more in hope really, which gave Penno all the possession and allowed them to continue to pepper the Ravens goal. Alby finally put the final nail in the coffin as he raced onto a through ball, and not even Purcy could prevent him from sending the ball into the bottom left corner. The Ravens were beaten and on the strength of the second half deservedly so, but they will need to take heart from the first half where they matched and led the competition favourites, especially if they are to take all three points at home to Normo next Saturday. A special mention to Dave Brennan, Alec Robertson and Paul Purcell. Outstanding games!!
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