Gladesville Ravens

GHFA Over 35 Division 2

Season Report 2013 World in motion as Ravens take command

Gladesville Ravens 3 West Pennant Hills 0 (13/04/2013 @ Westminster Park) Over 35 Div 2

Westminster Park was buzzing with the mighty Gladesville Ravens over 35s taking their bow in the 2013 competition after being handed a bye in round one, Lee claiming the three goals offered in the 3-0 scoreline, and they were up against a West Pennant Hills side fresh from a thrilling 3-3 draw the previous week. With a heavy presence of ex-Premier League stars in Joel, Zorby, Aman, Con, Brad and Tex being joined by an influx of Greco-British and local heroes in a heady mix of experience, flair and guile in this new-start team, there was much anticipation of a good showing for the boys in black and white.

A matter of minutes it took for Ravens to fire, and it was from the right where Al and Craig combined to set Con away into the area; the merest suggestion of a foul was enough to send the Ravens man tumbling spectacularly for an early penalty, much to the disgust of the travelling fans. Up stepped Con to dispatch a penalty to the keeper’s right, but he read it easily and palmed away the shot for a simple save. Ravens had to start from zero, but were looking lively, Paps looking cool and collected in the middle of the park, Brad full of running and Rob fizzing around down the left. It was Craig though that got Ravens off the mark, and with an absolute ripper. Brad’s industrious work in the middle of the park saw him guide the ball out to Craig in a wide position, and without a moment’s hesitation, he let rip from 25 yards for a screamer over the despairing keeper’s hand. Goal of the season so far for sure. Tex then almost foxed the keeper when running on to an arcing cross from Craig, the ball just not sitting down and the chance lost in the bright sunshine. Rob’s invention down the left then drew a crazy tackle from the keeper as he lunged into a two footed challenge, luckily he won the ball though, but the follow through may have seen a penalty in any other game. Defence looked solid with Zorb sweeping and Lee and Mark in command, although there was a comedy moment that left the referee reaching for his yellow card as Al sent the striker tumbling with a vicious brush of the hand, a thoroughly deserved booking for the unsteady West Penno striker for the theatrics. Joel had a snapshot to pluck out of the air as the call of ‘chip him’ rung around the ground, but it was Ravens who struck next, Rob sent galloping away down the left to cross for Stuey who turned in the cross expertly, accompanied with cries of offside. A splendid finish from the wily marksman, and he nearly did it again soon after, denied this time by the offside flag, the ball lifted over the keeper but just hitting the post. Ravens were looking good value at half time, and with the substitutions flowing, were maintaining a steady pace.

Into the second half, and Ravens took their foot off the gas far a spell, letting the visitors into the game. Even when the Penno central midfielder was dismissed for some unnecessary verbals at the ref, they piled forward, Joel having to be alert to keep his sheet clean. It was up to Ravens to take the game to their opponents, and so it was, with the black and whites exploiting the weakened midfield on the counter attack. Craig had time and space out wide when fed by the impressive Paps, his cross though too close to the keeper who crumpled in a heap, and the Ravens wide man repeated the feat soon after, almost finding Con with a swirling cross. Tex was looking busy in a more attacking role and charged down the last man’s clearance to set up a one- on-one with the keeper from an acute angle, his decision to cross weakly instead was rueful with the goal at his mercy. A free kick awarded centrally in a Beckham-friendly position was enough to see Paps line up one of his trademark thunderbolts, and after much anticipation and wall-jostling, the shot was scuffed along the floor and trickled well wide. Zorb then felt the full force of a nasty little challenge from behind and some searing slide tackles from the visiting team looked to spoil the spectacle. Joel was called into action soon after as the visitors threatened to take advantage of the profligacy, the keeper much to quick for the advancing striker aided by some expert shielding from Aman, and from another of his impressive long kicks, Ravens almost nicked another, Al flicking on for Tex who again opted for the cross when a lob was on, Stuey just unable to get himself into the right spot to head home. Craig fired in another ripping shot from distance that the keeper saved, Brad had a shot from distance that curled away from the goal, and Tex wriggled through the defence to cross low for Stu again who was thwarted by the keeper. The game had turned a little scrappy by this stage, some agricultural challenges from the visitors leaving their mark quite literally on the Ravens, but it was some friendly fire that would outdo West Pennant Hills with the clock ticking down, as Al slipped a delicious through ball to Rob, his pace allowed him a touch around the advancing keeper who hurtled into his own player sending him flying, Rob with the easiest task of tapping in unchallenged, which he passed up in favour of blazing the ball home from one yard for an emphatic third goal. The game was all but over, and after a lengthy spell while the defender was resuscitated and peeled off the floor, the referee brought proceedings to a halt and gave Ravens their first win in their inaugural game.

The post match vibe was positive; Ravens knew this was their first game together and accepted the failings they had displayed, but on another day, with some sharper finishing, this could have been a rout. Well done boys, back to the home of soccer, Peel Park for a thoroughly un-Australian Sunday 3pm Grand Final day clashing kick off against North Ryde.

Goals: Craig 1 Rob 1 Stuey 1

Sloppy Ravens denied in thriller

Beecroft 3 Gladesville Ravens 3 (27/04/2013 @ Meadowbank No 9) Over 35 Div 2

Denied a game by the weather the previous week, Ravens were back in action again against the bottom placed team Beecroft Wombats at Meadowbank Park. A first start for Matt and the appearance of Halley was a welcome boost for the Ravens, with Tex arriving on kick off to give Ravens a 13 man squad for the day. Aman was in goal with Joel away, Lee and Mark were in the back line with Zorby sweeping, and there was a spot for Marco, back from injury and Craig in the wide positions. Brad and Al took the reins in the centre of the park with Stuey and Roids up front. The hot conditions would be an interesting twist on this game, and the referee for the day would be an even bigger twist as the game wore on.

Ravens looked the part early on in a game that lacked direction, and it wasn’t long before they got their reward, a free kick on the left dinked across, evading the defence for the onrushing Bradley to swoop and head home confidently, and this looked to be a springboard for success, Roids shooting into the side netting soon after and Craig lining up one of his trademark missiles. It was to be Beecroft however ho would get themselves level, a throw in from the Ravens giving possession away cheaply and a sweeping move seeing the left winger cut inside and smash a lovely shot home for 1-1. It wasn’t long though before Ravens were back in the lead, Stuey finding time and space in the box to fend off Roids and stroke the ball home from close range after a melee on the edge of the box, and Ravens looked to add to their tally, Tex and Roids combining well, the dink to the far post just evading Marco. Drama as half time approached though, Craig adjudged to half brought his man down from a free kick on the left, and the penalty dispatched past Aman. The referee had endeared himself to the Ravens at that moment, Zorby giving him a mouthful and earning himself a yellow card. Half time then, and Ravens level when they should have been home and dry.

The second half was a torrid affair, Aman coming out of goal to be replaced by Lee, the referee spoiling what could have been an open flowing game by pulling up fouls instead of waving play on, and taking his time about every set piece to frustrate all the players. When Zorby was unceremoniously dumped to the floor in the centre of the park, twenty yards out, it was a matter of who would strike the free kick, Zorby giving Roids the chance to strike, and he didn’t waste the opportunity, smashing the shot over the wall and through the keeper’s hands for 3-2. Ravens though would have the referee to thank for bringing Beecroft back into the game, Lee missing the cross and the ball hitting Aman in the hand. So another penalty and Lee was close to keeping it out, the ball spinning into the net with a wicked bounce after he had got a hand to it. Roids whacked another free kick into the wall soon after, Stuey looked as though he would score when presented with the ball two yards out from an open goal, but the defender somehow toe poked the ball from behind him, sending the ball crashing against the bar and away to safety. With time running out, Tex and Roids played a one-two to set the former clear, reaching for the shot though, he skied his shot wastefully and the last chance had gone. There was time for a late shot from Craig that cleared the canal and found the adjacent field, and Halley was close to unlocking the defence, his ball through just too strong for Tex.

The whistle was a relief, Zorby had avoided a sending off after berating the referee for the duration of the second half, and Ravens had effectively dropped two points, but at least had come away with a point from their first away game of the season. Go the Ravens.

Goals: Brad 1 Stuey 1 Con 1

Gladesville win war of attrition

Gladesville Ravens 2 Thornleigh 1 (04/05/2013 @ Westminster Park) Over 35 Div 2

Coming into this top of the table clash after a meek draw with cellar dwellers Beecroft, the Ravens were looking to get their season back on track. With a host of players returning, but with no referee in tow, the Ravens had the numbers on what was a surprisingly windy day at the home of soccer, Westminster Park. Joel was in goal, Zorby, Lee and Mark played a back three, and in midfield, Al was joined by Tex, Brad and Craig, and up front, Stuey, Roidsy and Rob looked to unlock the Thornleigh defence, with Marco, Halley, Paps and Aman ready to come on for action, Aman manning the whistle for the first half in the absence of a referee.

The first half was a battle in all senses of the word, Aman having to calm down the players on more than one occasion as the encounter threatened to bubble over. Roids was the first to show with a good shot from the edge of the area after being fed up the right by Craig, and it was the right winger who was again to cause the majority of the problems, his looping crosses and tireless running giving Ravens the edge. Rob looked as though he had opened the scoring and was already wheeling away when connecting beautifully with a low shot from distance, the keeper majestically turning the ball away. Tex was then guilty of a glaring miss, linking well with Rob after winning the ball from a stranded defender – after an arcing run by Rob saw him hemmed to the byline, a neat ball was laid back into the path of Tex whose body shape was all wrong as he lifted the ball over under heavy pressure. The goal was to come though, and it was from a swirling corner from Craig, at the second attempt after a near post flick had been cleared for a second corner, this time the ball hanging in the air as Marco leapt to power home a header at the far post and set the bumper crowd alight. Rob was then sliced down as he burst through, Aman powerless to punish the Thunder player, before a spell of pressure saw the Thornleigh side threaten, Joel watching a shot sail over from the right, Al doing well to block a header at the far post and Paps lucky to escape without a yellow after an agricultural challenge on the feisty silver haired midfielder. Lee and Mark though were holding firm, and with Zorby playing some neat one touch football with those around him, Ravens held out and the half time whistle was a relief, if only to give the players some respite from the constant niggling of their opponents.

With Thornleigh forced to field a referee in the second half, this allowed Ravens to get Aman back into the fold in the centre of defence, and his leadership was to provide the basis of a spirited second half from the black and whites. The chances started coming, Al who was free from his position marking speedy Gonzalez on the left, feeding Craig who shot over from distance, then Tex intercepting a loose ball in the centre of the park to charge through on goal, laying the ball to Stu for a simple finish from seven yards, the ball though bobbling over the strikers foot and leaving the Ravens frustrated. Tex then again intercepted out wide and chose to cross for Roids instead of unleashing a shot, Paps rifled one just over after skipping past his man, and Halley did well to set Marco away, his cross headed wide at the far post by the defender with Craig closing in. The huge boot of Joel was keeping the ball well away from the Ravens goal, but he was called into action, athletically pouncing on a shot that could have gone anywhere, holding on to the ball as the striker closed in for the kill. The killer second goal came from a controversial moment, Roids and Marco linking well after being freed by Al, Roids sprinting through the middle only to be cynically chopped from behind for a stonewall free kick in a central position, just outside the area. Cue Roids, whose shot was deflected away, and in the melee that followed, who should pop up but Paps, after some scrapping from Matt, to smash a shot into the roof of the net in the blink of an eye for 2-0. Relieved, Ravens took their foot off the gas, and a header from a corner brought Thunder back into the game, Marco unable to clear before the ball crossed the line, and with barely five minutes to go, a nervy end to the game was possible. That should have been allayed when Roids crossed for Al late on, but he was unceremoniously battered by the defender when it looked as though he would score, a horrible challenge that saw the Ravens man hit the ground hard and spent some moments on the floor in obvious pain. Rob almost carved out a third late on latching on to a long ball from Lee, Brad then was forced off after a heavy challenge, but the game was won.

Ravens then in top spot after this one, hopefully the first and last game without a referee, as this one could have gone sour at any moment. All credit to the referees for keeping the game in check, Ravens will be looking to cement their spot with a tricky tie at All Saints Hunters Hill next week. Come on you Ravens.

Goals: Marco 1 Paps 1

Ravens leave it late as Halley seals victory

All Saints Hunters Hill 1 Gladesville Ravens 2 (11/05/2013 @ Riverglade No 1) Over 35 Div 2

A sunny Saturday afternoon down by the river for the Ravens as they looked to cement their place at the top of the table against a handy All Saints side, and with a few absentees, this was going to be a difficult one. Joel continued in goal, behind Zorby, Aman, Halley and Al, with Marco, Tex, Matt and Paps in the middle and Roids and Rob up front. A late running Lee joined the fray, ready to come off the bench. A tardy referee also caused the game to be held up for a few moments, and with the sun behind them, the Ravens set off in search of an early goal.

The boys in black and white started the game well, plenty of slick passing and triangles, especially down the right where Al and Roids linked well and tried to unlock the All Saints defence, although it was regular route one stuff that set the game alight, Zorby clipping the ball over the top for Roids who strode on to take aim and beat his man comfortably for one-nil. Rob was then sent away clean through after a neat interchange with Tex and Al opened up the defence, this time the ball squirming away as the striker closed in, the keeper saving easily, before Roids had a one-on-one and was again foiled as his chip shot was smartly saved. Joel had a nervy moment, pouncing on the ball after a quick move up the left had seen All Saints expose the defence, the ball in coming off Mark with Joel quickest to smother as the attackers closed in. Another break down the left this time saw Paps dink a ball to Rob, who chose to shoot with Roids well placed, and Rob again drilled a shot just over from distance as the Ravens threatened to turn the screw. Some wasteful football though saw the score remain at 1-0 at the break, and with the referee becoming increasingly agitated, it would not be long before the game descended into a familiar pattern.

The second half was only a few minutes old when All Saints won a penalty, Lee involved in a scramble with his man before play was cleared only for the ball to be played down the right hand side of the box where Lee again raced to cover, but his challenge was miscalculated and the Hunters Hill player took full advantage, tumbling gracefully to eke the penalty from the referee. Joel was given no chance, so it was back to square one for the Ravens, the scores now locked at 1-1. The man in black appeared to descend into madness thereafter, if his display wasn’t so annoying to all players it would have been funny; with players looking at each other for an indication of which way free kicks were given and play being stopped time and time again for the whistler to berate a player, this was quickly descending into farce. A heavy challenge on Roids caused a minor altercation between himself and his marker which suddenly escalated into handbags at ten paces, and Ravens did well to keep their heads with their opponents starting to lose theirs dramatically. Even Lee’s enforced substitution was a masterstroke, preventing himself from a certain red card for what he intended to do had he remained on the field. A smart piece of goalkeeping kept Ravens level, Joel leaving it to the last minute to nip the ball away from the striker, and there were further chances as a number of corners were lifted into the Ravens box. At the other end Zorby found himself with the ball at his feet inside the area after a mazy run had caused panic, the rebound falling his way which he expertly curled towards the corner only to see the keeper push it away superbly for a corner, Zorby already celebrating. Roids then found space up the left to cross to Rob who drilled a low shot just wide, Paps had a go from distance that flew past the post and Ravens looked as though they would have to be content with a point. That was until two corners in succession from Rob out on the right eventually saw the ball drop to Halley on the edge of the six yard box; his first attempt got lost under his feet, but the second attempt was a true hit, the ball flashing into the net for a late winner. Ravens didn’t have a great deal to do after that, although the referee continued his merry nonsense right til the end, a stuttering victory achieved, true championship form, but things will need to improve drastically for the next game.

Ravens now head to Glenhaven to take on Saints United in a 1pm Sunday kick off, and with a few players out or unavailable, this could be a tricky one. As we bring the first half of the season to a close, Gladesville lead the pack by a point, how important that point could be come the end of the season. Come on you Ravens.

Goals: Con 1 Halley 1

Sloppy Ravens snatch draw

Gladesville Ravens 2 Ryde Saints United 2 (19/05/2013 @ Holland Park) Over 35 Div 2

The mighty Gladesville Ravens Over 35s were lucky to escape with a point after doing their best to give the points to their opponents in a ragged display in outer Sydney today. A Sunday kick off meant some changes, Aman lining up in goal for this one, Al sweeping behind Mark and Lee, Paps joining Brad and Tex in the middle, Marco and Rob lining up in the wide positions, while Roids and Stuey took the attacking spots, with latecomer Craig to join the action after the kick off. Perfect conditions for soccer out in the rolling meadows of Glenhaven, although the field was not looking in the best of shape, with some sandpits, some ploughed sections and some huge holes ready to snap an ankle at a moment’s notice.

Ravens started very brightly, the chances started to come, Tex firing one in from the edge of the area which was saved, Roids linking up well with Rob to have his shot saved at the near post, and Stuey almost latching on to Rob’s through ball to open the scoring. Alas, as Ravens looked as though they were going to break the deadlock early on, it was Saints who got on the mark with their first move of the game, a wayward clearance helped into the centre of the park, evading the last header, and a rocket of a shot from the tidy striker nestling in the top right hand corner of the goal before Aman could even blink, a typical goal from a team under pressure. Rocked by this, and with Rob suffering a chop in the middle of the park, Ravens then descended into a self-loathing mire, players barking at each other, angry exchanges up front and some terse words in the middle of the park. This didn’t stop Ravens having the lion’s share of the attacking play though, Craig crossing magnificently for Stu to leap like a gazelle, his header tipped over, then Mark found himself in unfamiliar territory, almost connecting with a corner as Ravens threw the big men forward. Paps whistled a shot just over, Tex fluffed his lines when well placed, Marco delivered a delicious ball for Stuey that bounced away on the tricky surface and Con was upturned in the box with no reward. The half time whistle sounded, and Ravens left the field to conduct a thorough self- examination and try to get back into a game that they should have already wrapped up. The defence was in total control other than the breakaway goal, so all focus would be on the middle of the park and the front men who would go in search of goals.

The second half wasn’t too old before Ryde almost snatched a second goal, Lee very quick to snuff out the danger as the striker ghosted through. This woke up the Ravens, and they started to play some football, Craig finding space down the right and Marco making a nuisance of himself down the left. Stuey managed to remove a large wedge of the field when spraying the ball into the middle, his boot getting caught in the uneven turf and ripping the grass out, before Ravens finally got their goal, Craig whipping in a cross, Roids battling to win the ball and Paps smashing in a rocket into the top corner to make it look oh so easy. It wasn’t long though before a moment of madness, as the black and whites pressed self-destruct. There was little danger as the Saints man held possession just outside the box, however his quick turn and swallow dive into the area past the outstretched boot of Lee was enough to con the referee and amazingly a penalty was awarded, Aman given no chance. Shock and amazement suddenly turn to joy for the Ravens as Roids burst through and under heavy pressure was unceremoniously sliced to the floor, the referee quick to make the penalty count even. Stuey was quickest to the ball and confidently strode up, only to see his impressive shot hit the bar and go over, disaster for the Ravens. Time for another chance as Stuey played in Tex but his shot was weak, Craig lifted in a great free kick for Marco to head over when well placed, and Ravens got the feeling that it wasn’t going to be their day. That was until Roids blasted a shot into his defender, the referee quick to award a second penalty, which Craig took away from Roids leaving Paps to drill home a lovely shot for 2-2. A moment of mirth on the sideline then came as Craig let rip at the referee for a borderline touchline decision, the referee being some 50 yards away, Craig though hadn’t seen the linesman and held his hands up when he saw him standing right next to him with his flag raised. A completely senseless sending off for back chat then saw Saints reduced to ten for the last three minutes, and with the watch ticking down there was precious little time for any more action and the game was over.

The boys shook their heads in disbelief at how the game had gone today, a missed penalty, a hatful of missed chances and some unbelievable bad luck made for a hard day at the office. With a bye giving the Ravens a week to lick their wounds, they’ll be back in full swing in two weeks with a game against West Penno at the home of bad soccer, Bill Mitchell.

Goals: Paps 2

Ravens deny Penno with late leveller

West Pennant Hills 1 Gladesville Ravens 1 (01/06/2013 @ Bill Mitchell) Over 35 Div 2

Into round two for the Ravens in their inaugural season, and with the bye having gifted them three points, it was back to the top of the table for the home away from home visit to Bill Mitchell. Joel was back in goal for this one, Lee and Mark were stoppers with Zorb sitting deep, with Halley and Al out wide. In midfield, Tex was joined by Paps and Rob with Brad still out, while up front the dynamic paring of Stuey and Roids looked to get their partnership moving after a shaky first half of the season. Ravens were boosted by the first appearance of Daniel, and Aman and Craig were on hand to make up a very strong bench. Groans all round when the Mr Bean-a-like referee was spotted, and his horrible manner was evident from the off, delaying the kick off by 5 minutes to count and check and check and count and get his exact position on the field.

Ravens were out of the blocks like a shot, a clever bit of play by Al down the left saw Tex stride on to get the first shot away, straight at the keeper though, and Paps then drilled one just over the bar from distance. Roids was being shackled heavily, but his link up play with Rob was impressive without any end product as the West Penno defence kept things tight. Up the other end and a free kick out by the corner flag was well defended by Ravens, Tex heading clear when under pressure, but apart from that, with Zorb and Lee confident in their touches and Mark providing an outlet out right, there was little danger. Rob and Stuey then got in each other’s way when well placed, Roids having sprayed the ball out wide, and the feeling was that it was going to be one of those days again. A rare corner for Penno then resulted in a disastrous defensive error from the Ravens, all players looked to be heavily marked until the number 4 appeared unmarked to head home unchallenged at the far post, Ravens looking at each other to find out who had left their man. It was a surprising twist with Ravens having controlled the game up to that point, and Penno seized on the moment by carving out another great chance, this time Joel coming to the rescue with a very controlled pick up with the attacker advancing at full speed. A good passage of play down the left involving Daniel and Rob then saw the former lift a ball to the far post for the on-rushing Craig to control, but his shot from an acute angle went harmlessly wide. Half time came with the score at 1-0 and Ravens not in the right frame of mind, but still not beaten.

A re-shuffle at half time gave the Ravens a platform to build from, and they started to look the part, knocking the ball around nicely up front. With Zorb moved forward to an advance midfield role, there was more creativity, and it was his invention that saw him race on to a chip from Al and play a first time ball across the face of the goal, only for the well placed Stuey to fluff his lines from five yards, the ball getting trapped under his feet and the chance going begging. Ravens started to throw everything forward, and Paps was lucky to have his head intact after encountering some friendly fire from Stuey, firing a ball square in the chops of the silky midfielder, before Paps was upended by a shocking tackle that left him nursing a sore ankle, the free kick coming to nothing, Ravens were then let off in the most dramatic fashion, as a quick break saw Lee unable to cut out a bouncing ball up against two attackers, and the square ball saw the central striker totally unmarked, only to blaze the ball over an unguarded net for a terrible miss. Would that come back to haunt him? Another moment of madness soon after saw Aman tackle strongly only for the ball to squirm the Penno player’s way and his ball to the feet of his strike partner was lifted past Joel towards the goal – luckily Aman had continued his run and cleared the ball off the line with the West Pennant players already celebrating. That was the moment that Ravens turned on, and they should have equalized when Rob took a glorious through ball from Paps into his stride, drew the keeper, but the ball rolled agonizingly wide of the goal. The goal though wasn’t far away, and it was rudimentary route one stuff, Mark’s quick throw in to Daniel who launched a bomb into the area where the keeper flapped at the ball, the bounce took the ball high over the defender and first to react was Stuey, rising to head over the last man and into the net for a deserved leveler. Relief all round, and Stuey almost made it two in two minutes, shooting just past the left hand post from distance, before a moment of madness from Craig denied Al a goal, choosing to race ahead of him on his wrong foot when Al had a glorious shooting chance, the ball ending up high and wide. A draw was the right result today, and with the referee up to his usual no good, the game was played in a surprisingly good spirit.

Well done Penno for giving it to the Ravens, but championship form from the black and whites, with a ground-out draw. Next up is the big match against in-form table-toppers North Ryde at Magdala, and with Ravens struggling for numbers, this could be a tricky encounter. Come on yeee Ravens!!!!

Goals: Stuey 1

Patched up Ravens give Norths a rough Ryde

North Ryde 1 Gladesville Ravens 1 (08/06/2013 @ Magdala Oval) Over 35 Div 2

This was the game that everyone had been waiting for, the top of the table clash pitting a stuttering Ravens against the league’s top team North Ryde. Gladesville were badly affected by injuries, with a number of key players out, but still managed to field the necessary eleven players that would take them through this tough challenge. Joel was in goal looking to continue his good run of form, at the back was Lee and Mark partnered by the deep lying Aman, with Marco and Daniel out in the wide positions. In the middle Tex was joined by the returning Brad and the mercurial Georgie V, while up front Rob looked to do all the running with Roids only coming to make up the numbers, nursing a leg injury. So a host of stars out for this one, but plenty of quality on the field, and North Ryde would have to battle to get something from this one.

Right from the kick off, Ravens were fizzing around all over the park, the dynamic off the ball running causing panic in the North Ryde defence. It was clear that Georgie V was going to be the pivotal performer in the middle of the park, and his deft touches and sublime passing started to get things moving. It was from the boot of Roids that the first chance came, turning in the centre to unleash, the ball palmed over, and soon after it was Rob doing the same, the ball dipping just over the bar from a 20 yarder, the keeper having no chance. Tex played Brad in with a slide rule pass soon after which was cleared for a corner, which was lifted right on to the head of Rob, but the keeper again turned the ball aside. Up the other end and Aman had to be off the blocks quickly to usher his man out wide, Ryde using their bulky forward as a target man to good effect, but when the ball was played in, Joel was in the right spot to push the ball away from a good shot from ten yards out. A flicked header from a corner then caused some consternation, Lee leaping to head the ball clear, and Daniel completed the clearance with some clever trickery down the right corner. A booming shot from Georgie then saw the North Ryde keeper tested, his hand strong enough to turn the ball round the post, before the Ravens took advantage of their midfield superiority to take the lead – Tex fed Marco up the left and continued his run inside, Marco’s pinpoint pass saw the midfield man beat his man, reach the by line and advance towards goal before threading a cross beyond the advancing Roids and Rob, but Daniel was there at the far post to rifle the ball against the bar and into the net for an outstanding opening goal. Good timing too, as half time was almost up, and Ravens were looking forward to the break to get some much needed rest. There was though time for Joel to pounce on a swift through ball to smother the attack before the referee blew for half time.

With ten minutes to take on fluids on what was a perfect day for football, on a very tidy playing surface to boot, Ravens took the time to work out how they were going to build on the lead. The second half started much in the same way as the first though, Ravens taking the game to their opponents, but with Marco finding it difficult to attract the ball his way and Roids unable to use his surprising pace to good effect, the attacks often broke down. That’s where North Ryde came in, and got their goal, Ravens losing the ball in midfield, Tex tracking back to help out the defence but unable to get his foot to the ball as it popped out to the edge of the box, where the blue and yellow midfielder toe poked a shot which curled majestically into the very top right hand corner of the goal for a freakish equalizer, Ravens on their knees in disbelief, especially as there were still 35 minutes to go. Credit to the boys though, they took the game by the scruff of the neck and took it to their opponents, Rob was played through by Roids, but delayed a shot with his left foot allowing the defender to get back, then Tex raced down the right on to Daniel’s ball and poked a ball in to Rob, who took the ball round his man and shot, only for the keeper to save magnificently. Brad was then fed by Roids to unleash a bullet shot which whistled over, and Daniel got a shot in from distance which went just over. At the other end, North Ryde had two good chances when the ball found itself over on the left corner of the penalty area, the shot on each occasion though undoing all the good approach play. Marco was upended when clean through, only for the referee to wave play on, and Roids had a late chance when Daniel fed the ball to him, his shot rising just over the corner of post and bar. The game was heading for stalemate, but one last chance saw Rob bulldoze through a challenge, the ball just squirming away at the last minute to deny him, and that was the final act of a tremendous 90 minutes of soccer.

Ravens could have been forgiven for being disappointed at not picking up three points today, and they were definitely good value for it, but with their understrength patched up side, it was a good point against the league leaders. Ravens now have a tricky match at Beecroft to continue their run of away games, the cellar dwellers not having picked up much since the teams shared the spoils earlier in the season. A big test, bring it on!

Goals: Daniel 1

Ravens click to destroy Thunder

Thornleigh Thunder 1 Gladesville Ravens 4 (22/06/2013 @ Les Shore) Over 35 Div 2

A sunny oasis on a rainy Sydney Saturday afternoon, Les Shore oval in faraway Glenorie was the scene for a rip-roaring game of football between second and third in the table, both teams looking to bridge the increasing gap between themselves and table toppers North Ryde. With only nine players showing, there were worries that this might be a bad day for the Ravens, but the weekend traffic had simply delayed the arriving players, and by kick off time, there were eleven players, and by five past there were three subs, Ravens therefore in the unusual position of having a large rotation of subs on what was an unusually warm and dry day.

The first half started with Ravens on the back foot, Joel tested with his first touch of the game, coming out to confront the busy striker, a heavy hand enough to take the pace off the ball, and new stopping sensation Marco was there to hook the ball off the line. Ravens were to have a tough start to the game, with the attacking verve of the Thunder strike force causing problems, and the midfield tussle in their favour. A free kick was poorly executed in a glorious position, and Joel watched another attempt sail over as Thunder tried to convert their pressure into goals. Finally Ravens got their act together, and with Roids ploughing on up front despite being clearly under the weather, the chances started to come. First Roids was played in marvelously by Al, the shot pulled wide, then Stuey latched on to a pass from Rob to flash a shot again just wide. Paps was looking dangerous whenever he got the ball, and it was from one of his through balls that Ravens had a good chance, Craig denied by the agile keeper as he raced through. A near miss where Thunder thudded a shot against the right hand post from distance then woke up the black and whites, and it was that man Paps, racing on to a through ball from Dan, who took the ball on and fired an unstoppable shot into the bottom right hand corner for 1-0, a spectacular strike giving the keeper no chance. All that hard work though was to be undone soon after as Paps was flattened by a Thornleigh player and reacted non-too-pleasantly, the linesman calling the referee over who subsequently brandished a red to Paps and a yellow to the Thunder man. Ravens then down to ten, and shell-shocked by the loss of the one player who looked like being the thorn in Thornleigh’s side. Soon after Ravens got a chance when Craig crossed a little long for Rob, whose quick thinking saw a dinked cross right on to the head of the onrushing Tex, the header though coming off the defender and the chance was gone. The lively Thornleigh right-sided attacker was causing problems, and it was from one of his runs into the corner that they looked as though they would equalise, a last ditch tackle from Matty though saw Joel able to pounce on the ball, Matt forced off the field with a knee injury to play no further part in the game. It was a case of riding out the remaining minutes of the half, and with Georgie V on the field, possession was easy to maintain. A late breakaway saw Dan released by Rob through the middle, twenty years have passed though since the Ravens midfielder could open his stride to such an extent, and the chance was closed down. Half time then, no complaints from the Ravens about the manner of the sending off, simply a determination to do something about it in the second half.

The first few minutes of the second half were torrid for the Ravens, as they were stretched by the Thunder midfield, and despite the best attempts of Stuey up front and Georgie V in midfield, they were powerless to prevent an equalizing goal. Rob, who was effectively playing two roles down the left, was left exposed and couldn’t quite make yet another tackle, the winger crossing deep into the box, where Joel elected to stay on his line, Roidsy took a push in the back and the Thunder man skewed a header in from five yards for the simplest of goals, Ravens now with a mountain to climb. Following the goal however, a purple patch for the black and whites, and it was a well won corner that almost paid dividends, Rob lifting the ball in, a clearance falling to Georgie, who steadied himself to let rip from twenty five yards, the ball taking a deflection and flying for the top corner, Georgie himself already turning to salute the goal, before the keeper made an astonishing save, full stretch to turn the ball around the post. Rob then turned a glorious shot onto the post from a quick break, and perhaps this was destined to be a day of frustration. That was until a triple substitution from master tactician Aman, which freed up Roids up front and changed the game completely. First up was Rob, fresh from hitting the post, and when he sprung the offside trap with Roids challenging well for the header, there was only one thought in his mind, and that was a snapshot straight into the bottom corner. Ravens in the lead, playing with ten men, and things were suddenly starting to go their way, as the Ravens players patiently lay in wait and ambushed in numbers. Next up, Tex pressured the attacker into a mistake, Roids collected and dinked the perfect ball back to Tex, whose headed control was true, and he advanced, past the last man, onto the left foot, but the shot came off the defender when a goal looked the most likely outcome. Soon after, Roids and Tex again combined, this time Roids pulled up for a foul, but moments later, Roids goaded his defender into a rash tackle on the edge of the area, and Ravens had a good chance. With Tex hovering, Roids had already called Stu to warm up and come on for him, before turning and lashing the ball around the wall and into the net for three, Ravens now looking very good for the three points. Some clever defending from Aman got his defence out of trouble, Mark and Daniel completing the clearance when he looked to be overwhelmed by attackers, and led to more sublime skill in midfield, top notch tiki taka as Rob and Stu combined, the latter turning on a sixpence to deliver a sweet through ball for Craig, who boomed forward to smash a low shot into the corner of the goal for a remarkable fourth goal. Thunder were now in total disarray, and the game ground to the end with Ravens still on the offensive and looking for another goal to dent Thunder’s championship hopes. The final whistle was greeted with cheers from the Ravens fans, a superb victory in the most unlikely of circumstances.

Ravens turned on the style in the second half here, a patient display of stout defending and very clever ambushing tactics saw them turn a difficult situation into a comfortable victory. With the weather likely to claim the next week’s game, all eyes will be on the double header the following week, two games in 22 hours to test the title challenge of any team. Bring it on say the Ravens, bring it on.

Goals: Craig 1 Rob 1 Roids 1 Paps 1

Horror show as Ravens snatch unlikely point

Ryde Saints United 3 Gladesville Ravens 3 (06/07/2013 @ Magdala Oval) Over 35 Div 2

The first game of the double header weekend, Ravens came into this one on the back of a comprehensive victory over Thornleigh, but that was a long time ago, plenty of water under the bridge since then and with Paps serving a suspension, and numbers low right until kick off, Ravens were not looking the most confident team, with a prayer session at the Park End being conducted by some wayward religious types adding to the tension. An influx of players arriving at the kick off made this one a little tricky for manager Aman, and by half time, Ravens were almost at full strength, with Rob the only casualty, as they looked to wipe away the memory of a difficult reverse fixture against the Saints earlier in the season.

With Tex joining Roids up front in an untested partnership, Ravens employed their now customary formation, with Zorby sweeping at the back behind a central defensive pairing and five midfielders, Joel looking for a quiet day between the posts; early signs were true to form as Ravens did all the running, but a combination of poor passing and ill-judged decision-making brought little reward for their endeavour. Indeed, once Tex had attempted and failed the fifth through ball to Craig on the overlap, it was clearly time to change ideas, Ravens coy to use the left hand side of the field, but they could not have expected what was to come next. A simple ball was gifted to Ryde in the middle of the park, and the through ball saw the defence split wide open, the striker having an easy time sending Joel the wrong way for the first goal, a comfortable finish inside the near post. Rocked on their heels, Ravens surged forward, Georgie V coming into his own with some trickery to delight the crowd, shooting just around the post with a curling effort, then pinging a shot from thirty yards onto the bar with the keeper beaten. With half an hour played, Ravens then hit self-destruct, a simple cross into the area saw some under 8s style ball watching and the Ryde striker was afforded as much time as he liked to drill the ball into the net for 2-0, things going quickly down the tubes for the unbeaten black and whites. And so it was down to some good old fashioned route one football to get Ravens back on track, a long ball lofted in to Roids, who took the ball down at the second attempt and unleashed a rocket that sailed into the net for 2-1. Could Ravens turn this around before half time… the answer was a definite no, with a corner swirled into the box and not a single head went up, leaving a totally unmarked United midfielder to bury the ball into the net with Joel again totally exposed. Half time was now upon us, Ravens were looking like a beaten side, but with signs that a recovery was possible, and some impressive fight backs to their name already, they knew there was a lot to play for in the second half.

Stuey’s appearance at half time was welcome, a touch of silk and some creativity to assist the cause, and it wasn’t long before he found himself in the action, just unable to reach a through ball from Zorb, but this was going to be a half of missed chances, and Roids showed the way, a ball from Tex to Dan, flicked into Roids’ path, but he hit it straight at the keeper. Then Roids again found himself in the clear, opened his body only to fire straight at the keeper again. The next one fell to Dan, ten yards out, unmarked, yet again straight at the keeper, before Stuey showed everyone how it’s done, finding space down the left to advance, drawing the keeper, and slotting home a goal to set up a grand stand finale. Up the other end, the breakaways were the only weapon, and a three on two ensued as Ryde went in search of the killer goal, Lee and his defence holding firm though, and yet more chances came Ravens way, Zorby drawing the whole of the defence towards him to chip to the far post where Tex was foiled by the last defender’s toe, diverting the ball away at the last minute, then a simple move, Tex to Brad, clean through, again straight at the keeper, who must have thought it all his Christmases had come at once. Ravens really did think their number was up when Georgie V latched onto a glorious ball from Roids to rasp a shot against the post, but the best was yet to come, Brad sweeping the ball wide to Craig, who drilled the ball into the centre where Georgie V, booked moments before for an angry push, leapt and connected with an incredible header that arrowed into the top left hand corner of the goal for an immaculate equalizer. Could Ravens complete the turnaround? Three goals a-piece and the most unlikely comeback had been completed, but could they go on and win it. Halley thought so, as he danced into the area and unleashed a stinging shot that the keeper could only push out to Craig, but the follow up was wide, then Mark had to be quick to intercept a promising move from the Saints, slipping the ball through to Zorb for a thumping shot that whistled over. And so into the last minute, and a bomb into the Ravens box saw Mark stretch for the ball and upend his man, who went down a la Roids, United awarded a penalty in the very last move of the game, Ravens shaking their heads in dismay. Up stepped the left back to steer the ball goalwards, but Aman’s words of wisdom to Joel allowed the goal tender the upper hand, waiting until the shot was dispatched before pushing the ball out. As the rebound bounced down and the players all raced to claim the ball, the referee blew for full time, much to the relief of the Ravens, and the great escape had been completed.

Ravens knew that they had been very fortunate today, in a game where nothing seemed to go right in the first half, and where one way traffic in the second half was enough to snatch a point that looked very unlikely at half time. Well done boys, this was a test of mettle.

Goals: Roids 1 Stu 1 Georgie V 1

Ravens at a canter as Beecroft offer little resistance

Beecroft Wombats 0 Gladesville Ravens 4 (07/07/2013 @ View Street) Over 35 Div 2

A full twenty one hours after a difficult game with Ryde Saint United had concluded with a miracle penalty save to gain a point, Ravens were back in action minus two of their heroes, goal scorer supreme Georgie V and penalty king Joel, but numbers were boosted by the return of George and Rob to the side, Zorby slipping on the gloves for this one. Aman, Lee and Al made a formidable back line, Craig and Rob out wide provided the width while Dan, Tex and Brad toiled in midfield with Roids and Stuey up front, George waiting patiently on the sideline while Halley made his way late to the stadium.

A burst of activity early in the game saw Beecroft match their opponents, the Scottish striker looking particularly adept, and it was Zorby who was tested first, stooping to push a ball around the right hand post for a corner after being exposed by a neat through ball. Moments later it was Zorby again to the rescue, this time a low shot across his goal touched wide for a corner as Ravens looked to find their feet. Roids was then sent clear through the middle, a glorious ball from George allowing him the time to compose, open the body and drill the ball straight at the keeper who caught at the second attempt, but Roids was not to be denied. Some enterprise from Tex and Rob won a corner down the left, Rob lifted in a searing ball that just cleared the near post markers and there was Roids to connect and bundle the ball home for one nil, and Ravens were finally allowed to relax. An injury to Lee meant Tex pushing back into a stopper role, and this gave George plenty of time to work some magic, and he was unlucky to see a long range effort go just over the bar. Craig was having a busy time down the right, a long cross just too far for Roids, although Rob gathered the ball and popped it back in where Brad was unlucky not to connect. Ravens by now had settled, and were looking very composed and it was a matter of time before they struck again. This time it was George to Rob, down in the corner to Roids, who took the ball inside and was looking for a penalty when the ball squirmed out to Brad on the edge of the box who thundered an unstoppable shot into the net for two. Fabulous stuff. The half time whistle came, not until Ravens had gone close again, Rob and Dan combining, and other than some awkward bouncing balls, there was little to trouble the Ravens at the back.

A well-earned ten minute break for the weary Ravens at half time, and they knew that 2-0 would be a dangerous scoreline, with legs getting heavier, and they set about the second half in much the same manner as the first, extremely patient build up, plenty of creativity and water-tight defence. A move down the right saw Craig get into space, his cross though was behind as he chose again to pass up the first touch, then Rob found himself bearing down on the penalty area only to be held up for what seemed like half a minute while he awaited the support, the short ball to Stu not enough and Beecroft survived. This was looking good, Beecroft had only a stray pass from Al to contend with, and Zorby watched the resulting shot go harmlessly wide, before Ravens finally struck the third, George taking his time to pick his spot after good work from Stu had created the opening, and the ball thundered into the net. The keeper then produced a wonderful save to tip over from Roids, before the striker had to leave the field with his hamstring in pieces, and Ravens continued to bombard the Beecroft goal until a calm piece of striking from Dan finally killed off the game, taking the ball from a clearance, tiptoeing onto his right foot and blasting the ball home with the keeper totally beaten. The final whistle was greeted with relief from the Ravens, a fine victory on what could easily have been a tricky second half of a double header.

Results elsewhere saw North Ryde beaten to set up a fabulous six pointer next Sunday at North Ryde Oval, Ravens looking to nudge North Ryde off the top at just the right time. Well done to the players who doubled up this weekend, and well done GHFA for supplying two quality referees for both games. Can the Ravens do it? Will they tactically finish second to avoid promotion? Are they destined for a double? Find out next week, come on the Ravens!!!

Goals: Roids 1 Daniel 1 Brad 1 George 1

The title is sealed as Ravens finally succumb

North Ryde 1 Gladesville Ravens 0 (14/07/2013 @ North Ryde Oval) Over 35 Div 2

Somewhat of a bogey ground this one for the Ravens, but the ultimate six pointer was on offer here, the equation was simple – lose and North Ryde win the premiership, win and the Ravens have half a hand on the Premiership themselves going into the final day. This was going to be a blockbuster. Late withdrawals for the game were Al, suffering an achilles problem, Matt and Lee, but with the promise of the prodigal son Roids appearing to bolster numbers at half time, there were still plenty of numbers to give the Ravens a solid looking side. Joely returned to his goalkeeping spot, pushing Zorb up to sweeper, Aman and Mark played at the back. Marco and Craig took the wing back roles with George, Tex and Brad in midfield and Rob and Stuey up front. The late appearance of Georgie V swelled the ranks, with Halley and Dan ready to come on in midfield.

The game kicked off in blazing sunshine, Ravens downhill and with North Ryde staring into the sun, and it was Ravens who looked the most likely early on, a snapshot from George whistling past the post and Rob getting on the end of a cross from Tex which he laid back for Dan to fire over. At the other end, Marco was having a busy time tracking his man, and Mark was solid as Ravens looked to keep their goal intact. The one shot that North Ryde did get in almost went out for a throw in, but soon after it was a corner that almost undid the Ravens, a thumping header just clearing the bar from the lanky centre forward. A free kick also caused much consternation in the Ravens back line, but with Joel in command and Zorby cool as ice under pressure, the scraps were mopped up and the game remained goalless. A tremendous run by Craig saw the ball swung in and controlled sweetly by Stuey, who turned and shot well, the ball just wide, and Ravens just couldn’t get the clear chance they craved. An intricate move down the right involving Georgie V and Dan then saw Craig lift in a cross that eventually reached Marco, his shot though high and wide. There was also a half chance for Rob who turned in the area to poke the ball wide as Ravens sought the magical opening goal, while George found himself in the book for a totally unprovoked assault on his man, a cynical chop from behind that was rightly flagged as a foul. The link up play down the right was very impressive approaching the break, and looked like being the source of a goal if one was to come, Georgie V teeing himself up for a shot but the ball just rolling away from him at the last minute. And so at the break, 0-0, and a classic top of the table clash with everything to lose for both sides.

With Al having taken the Mourinho role on the sideline, the team was shuffled around at half time, and despite players dropping out with injuries, and half time vomits on the agenda, the team that came out for the second half still looked full of verve and determination. Shooting uphill but with the sun disappearing sporadically behind the clouds, the scene was set for a cracking second 45 of top notch football. The opening moments were nervy for Ravens, Joel giving Tex a stretch as he played the ball out from the back, and Marco having to be quick to race back and foil his man as North Ryde threatened to turn the game. George was starting to get a grip on the game, and his calmness on the ball began to infect the team, and the game opened up. Firstly, Con who had appeared at half time to boost the attack, strode into the area to tee up the inrushing Brad who launched an effort wide of the post, then George let rip from twenty yards, the ball dipping but not enough to trouble the keeper. Back at the other end and Joel had to be swift of mind if not body to clear up a tricky backpass, and his quick thinking set Zorby away for a gallop that took him deep into the North Ryde half, but the chance wouldn’t come. Zorby was victim of a heavy tackle soon after, a Robbie-esque tumble to the ground and a minute of groaning enough to steal a moment’s breath in a busy game. And so, with the game locked at 0-0, and with Ravens taking more and more gambles, it was no surprise when North Ryde almost snatched a goal, a corner was arced in to the far post, the header found Joel, but the ball was kicked out of his hands, and an ensuing melee on the line saw Zorby and Marco battle to keep the ball from going over the line, Joel pouncing to finally smother and Ravens had escaped. A quick break from Tex down the left saw Georgie V make the dynamic decoy run to the left, the ball though heading straight to the feet of Robbie, whose deft flick found George and a rasping shot was plucked out of the air by the keeper. Time was ticking away, Ravens were pushing, but nothing could have prepared them for what was to happen next, the North Ryde striker totally overrunning the ball giving Joel a chance to nip in and pick up the ball towards the edge of the area – the Ravens custodian’s brain however was a step ahead of his gloves as he anticipated the edge of the area and a possible handball, and the ball rolled through his gloves and straight into the path of the striker, who calmly rolled the ball into the net for 1-0. Oh how cruel this wonderful game can be sometimes. Five minutes remaining then, and Ravens had to find an equalizer, and a flurry of throw ins down the left led to a corner, which Con swept in, Dan unable to convert on the far post, before the moment of the match saw Zorby stay forward and play in Robbie, who touched the ball to Craig in acres of space with only the keeper to beat, and with a strike of the right boot he found the keeper’s left hand, and the chance was gone, along with it the Premiership, as the ball was cleared and the referee blew for full time.

The North Ryde players treated the fans to a rendition of Achy Breaky Heart and the Hokey Pokey after the game, and they had good right to celebrate – they had inflicted the first defeat of the season on the Ravens, stolen the Premiership crown but presented the Ravens with the opportunity of division 2 next season, there’s your silver lining then. Well done Ravens on a fabulous performance on the day, but not enough to roll over the league leaders, and the boys will look back on some of the previous games and the flurry of needless draws and there lies the reason why top spot is not with the black and whites. One more game to go in the regular season, and it will be a practice game for the semi-finals with top four placed All Saints Hunters Hill coming to Peel for the long awaited, one and only Peel Park showdown this season. Come on yeee Ravens!!!

Goals: none

Tempers fray as Ravens grind out win

Gladesville Ravens 1 All Saints Hunters Hill 0 (27/07/2013 @ Peel Park) Over 35 Div 2

Peel Park, home of the Gladesville Ravens, was graced by the O35/2 team for the first time this season in a rearranged game, with All Saints coming to town to avenge a slender reverse in the first round. This time, numbers would be the enemy of Ravens, only able to name a two man bench, but the quality was still there, Aman in goal behind a defensive trio of Mark, Al and Zorby, wide men Halley and Craig with a three man midfield of Tex, Paps and Robbie, with Stu and Roidsy up front. Matt and the forever young Georgie V were primed and ready for action on the sideline as Ravens started this game at 100 miles an hour.

Ravens were on the attack in this one from the first touch, and were using the wide men to great effect, Halley and Craig seeing a lot of the ball in the first half, while Zorby had a surprisingly offensive game, breaking forward when the time was right. Roids was the first to find space in the box, the ball just getting away from him at the vital moment, before Stuey showed why he is revered up front with a smart turn outside his man to fire just wide. Tex was full of running, and from one of his forays on to a through ball from Al, a thumping cross just evaded Robbie as Ravens continued to dominate. That domination was broken as Saints raced up field, Craig thankful to see his man pull up with hamstring trouble when almost clean through, while a flurry of corners for the visitors didn’t bring any joy, Ravens strong in defence, Tex using his sizeable bulk to good effect, stretching to deflect a shot away. Paps was pulling the strings in midfield, Zorby was providing some clever moves from the back, while Mark was finding a lot of space and possession down the right. It was a corner though from Halley that almost brought reward, the ball cleared to Zorby who found himself space in the box, but his uncharacteristically rushed shot was high and wide. A smart tip over from Aman was the only trouble Ravens had in the rest of the half, but with numbers dropping as the game wore on, there was still a lot of twisting and turning to take place in this one.

The second half began at an almost subdued pace as Ravens slowed the game right down and tried to open up the Saints defence with their wing play. An early chance though for the Saints saw a snapshot bounce awkwardly in front of Aman, the goalkeeper having strayed from his goal, but he palmed the ball away, grasping the ball on the second attempt but not before a ridiculous shove from behind that he didn’t appreciate, choosing to settle for the goal kick by pinging the ball off the back of the offender’s head and giving him a serve. The referee, who had been a little behind play and prone to some unusual decisions then incensed Craig after he was upended by a stray tackle on the sideline, nothing given when it was a clear foul and a bookable offence to boot. That theme continued when Tex raced in to foil his man with a full blooded challenge only to be pulled up for the free kick and Ravens sensed that they were having to work very hard against the man in black. To their credit though, the boys began to make in-roads into the Saints defence, and their continued persistence down the flanks with Halley and Craig in full flight was destined to lead to something. Craig had a go when set free by Paps, drilling a ball in which Robbie controlled and lashed at goal, only for the keeper to push the ball away, then Zorby skied a free kick, and Paps saw a shot foiled by the last man who flung himself in the way of a rocket shot. At the back, Ravens had abandoned their formation in search of a winner, Al and Matty manning the middle of defence and Mark finding lots of space down the right. It was a headed clearance from Mark that led to the move of the match, Robbie laying off to Paps who fed Craig and his first time cross was inch perfect for the looming Stuey, who bundled the ball into the net with a trademark poachers finish at the far post. One nil! Stuey in fact could have had two, another superb turn on the edge of the box saw his shot well saved, and Tex had a shot sail over with Halley perhaps better placed. The game was won though, and aside from some comedy from Craig, drilling a free kick within inches of the referees head, it was as comfortable as it could have been, and Ravens had picked up another three points.

So a tough encounter today at Fortress Peel, Ravens cementing a 100% record at Peel Park, and this will be a taster of things to come, these teams destined to meet in the semi-finals. Congratulations to the Ravens for making the semi-finals in what is effectively a debut season, and stand by for some fireworks as they go in search of a maiden championship. Up the Ravens!

Goals: Stuey

Ravens triumph as Thunder lose their cool

Thornleigh Thunder 2 Gladesville Ravens 3 (03/08/2013 @ Epping Boys High School) Over 35 Div 2 SF

Controversial is a word that aptly describes Gladesville Ravens Sports Club, and following a week of turmoil that saw Paps and Aman both banned for this one after a clerical error the previous week, Ravens had to pick themselves up and let their football do the talking. Lee was back in action after a couple of weeks out, and took the goalkeeper’s jersey, with Al, Mark and Marco at the back. Tex, Brad, Robbie and Craig would man the midfield, while Roids would plough a lone furrow up front as Ravens started with only nine players. With Halley entering the fray soon after the start, Stuey arriving after ten minutes and Georgie V tentatively making an entrance well after the start, Ravens would be content to play a holding game and let Thornleigh keep possession in their own half.

Lee was the first keeper to be tested, and early effort bouncing harmlessly wide, before he confidently plucked a ball out of the air to give himself and his team a confidence booster. With the sun beaming into Ravens faces going forward, a promising move from Stuey saw the ball looped into space where Tex raced onto it, but lost it in the rays of sun and the chance was gone. Halley and Stu were having a great time down the left, and when Roids joined the triangles, a good opportunity arose, Tex cutting back for Stuey, but the chance was cleared. Up the other end there was always going to be plenty of danger, and Mark had to be swift to prevent a breakaway, the ball bouncing awkwardly in the penalty area before an acrobatic clearance from Al. Craig looked the likely source of a goal, and it duly came in unusual circumstances. A free kick was awarded centrally for the Ravens, and with Roids, or Conaldinho as we’ll call him, lining up to shoot from way out, the Thunder defence was totally caught out by a slide rule ball out wide, which Craig took in his stride and lashed into the centre, totally bamboozling the goalkeeper at the near post who could only dive low and push the ball into his own net for 1-0. Ravens felt somewhat fortunate to have the lead and set about keeping that lead until half time with a renewed vigour, relying on some clever defending and making sure the head was first to the ball as a series of corners from the left was flung into the area. Georgie V almost got himself through just before the break, Brad just beaten to the ball as the pass came into the centre, and the half time whistle was welcome for the Ravens who had run themselves ragged in the first half to contain the Thornleigh onslaught.

The second half saw Ravens shooting downhill on the heavy field, and they looked to capitalize, Tex dinking in a cross that Georgie V couldn’t read and Robbie unable to turn his man when well positioned. The sucker punch came as Thunder looked to be easing off the gas, and it was a poor piece of defending, the clearance given away and with Lee caught slightly out of goal, the shot from the midfielder floated over him and into the corner of the net for an equalizer. Robbie then found himself clean through but chose to pass when a shot looked obvious, Stuey surprised to find the ball coming his way and it was cleared, before a moment to define Ravens season, Robbie falling in a heap in the box only to get to his feet after the challenge and be barged into by the pale faced midfielder, who sent him sprawling. Three minutes of arguing ensued, with Ravens doing their best to keep out of it, before a straight red was shown, and a penalty awarded, much to the amusement of the Ravens contingent. Roids went against form and scored from the spot with a messy kick that rolled inside the post, but a goal’s a goal and Ravens had the lead again. Unfortunately it wasn’t for long though, and a free kick came in from a dangerous angle, the six foot four striker rising unmarked to guide a header over Lee and into the net. With ten men, Thunder set about doing to Ravens what they had done to them four weeks previously, and another header whistled past the post after Lee had committed to the claim, and then an absolute blinder of a save from the Ravens shot stopper – stranded out of his goal, the ball was played into the centre and the forward connected to send the ball goalwards to the cheers of the Thornleigh players only for Lee to pop up from nowehere to stick out a hand and divert the ball away, setting up a counter attack as he did. Tex then played Robbie in with a pinpoint through ball, unmarked ten yards out, but his deft finish was saved by the outstretched hand of the keeper and Ravens were frustrated. When Roids, who had run the gauntlet of the referee all second half and enjoyed more lives than the average lucky cat, was upended wide on the right, he picked himself up and swept in a free kick that Robbie lunged for, but was relieved to see Tex racing from a deep position to apply the finish to wrong foot the keeper and give Ravens the lead. This time there would be no mistakes, and with Thornleigh becoming ever more frustrated and unpleasant, Ravens did well to control the remaining few minutes of the game and grind out the win.

Congratulations to the Ravens for a thoroughly deserved victory in a bad tempered game, and we wish Thunder all the luck in the world next week against All Saints, not because we love and respect them, but it would be good to see All Saints get knocked out after their antics the previous week. Come on the Ravens, do or die this weekend at Peel against North Ryde, fire up!

Goals: Craig Roids Tex

Five star Ravens thump premiers to reach Grand Final

Gladesville Ravens 5 North Ryde 0 (10/08/2013 @ Peel Park) Over 35 Div 2 SF

The scene was set for a rip-roaring afternoon of quality soccer, Ravens back to their spiritual home of Peel Park, the sun shining and promise of some quality souvlakia after the action was complete. Ravens welcomed back a number of faces following the previous week’s raid on Thornleigh, Aman back in goal after his suspension, Matt returning with Zorby and Daniel declaring himself fit after injury. The mood was buoyant, with the knowledge that North Ryde had struggled in their last two games, while Ravens had stepped up the intensity after the disappointing result against the visitors had cost them the league title. The never ending suspension of Paps meant that he was the man to miss out for this one, but was set to play a starring role on the barbecue as the day took an incredible turn for the better.

Ravens had been notoriously slow starters during the season, taking the time to suss out their opponents and keeping things tight until superior fitness prevailed, but this time Ravens were out of the blocks like a whippet, an early free kick curved majestically over the wall but just over the bar by Roids, before the Ravens striker prised open the North Ryde defence with a glorious move, Craig playing the ball in to the hitman’s feet and he delayed his through ball perfectly for Rob, who got in front of his man, drew the keeper and slotted home a beautiful finish for 1-0. The precision and efficiency of that move was repeated soon after as Ravens took advantage of a corner, taken by Halley from the left, the ball falling for Brad in front of goal who side footed into the goal via a defender for two, and the Ravens were firing on all cylinders. With Tex and Al linking up in midfield and Zorby giving an extra dimension to the attack, it was no surprise when a third goal in ten minutes came, Roids and Craig combining to lift the ball into the area for Robbie who controlled, took his time to settle onto his right foot to wrongfoot his defender before lashing a shot high past the keeper for three. This was simply breathtaking play, and when the referee was asked how long til half time it was a surprise to hear that there was still half an hour to the break and Ravens were in utter command. Halley was having a solid game down the left, and it was from his run that Ravens almost profited again, the ball in for Robbie this time lashed away from under the posts. Up at the other end, a Grobelaar moment from Aman almost gifted North Ryde a simple goal, trying to take on his man in front of goal when the simple pass to Mark was on, Aman though cool as ice as he shimmied and left the attacker for dead. A corner from North Ryde provided some worries too as the Ravens looked to keep their commanding lead until half time, Lee able to lift the ball away from close to the line when the dangerous cross came in. Stuey then lit up Peel with a bit of attacking flair, racing on to a Roids through ball, taking the time to steady, but lashing the ball high and handsome over the bar, and Al had a glorious chance from a right wing cross when he rose unmarked to head just over the bar, cursing his luck as soon as he had connected. Ravens then in command, and half time brought a sensational 45 minutes to a close.

Ravens were shooting towards the revered canteen end in the second half, the souvlaki was cranking, Paps cooking up a storm as if he was a DJ on the decks, and to his sweet music Ravens continued the onslaught as the second half wore on. After weathering an inevitable period of resistance from the premiers, where Aman had to smartly touch over a lob from the wily midfielder and touch a stinging shot just past the post for a corner, Ravens again took command. The three goal lead, the perfect playing surface at Peel and the verve and guile of the players made up a devastating formula for some sweet football, tiki taka at its best and some devilish wing play. First up was Tex, thrashing in a cross that just cleared the head of Robbie, by now on a hat-trick, then a deft touch from Al on the edge of the box teed up Zorby for a strike that whistle wide. Zorby dinked in a dangerous free kick soon after, before the goal that effectively sealed the game, Roids racing down the right from a swift counter attack, taking on his man to set up the shooting opportunity, but instead he held the ball, clipped it over to Robbie at the far post, who headed back across the keeper and into the net for the hat-trick goal, wheeling away in amazement to lap up the cheers from the home end. A superb move soon after saw Tex and Brad interchange passes leading to a back heel that set up Brad for a rocket shot that the keeper saved, then Georgie V appeared for a cameo, Roids earning a yellow card for not leaving the field of play at the half way line. Georgie gave the Ravens a new dimension, and his willingness to hold the ball up and let the midfield come through allowed Ravens to go close again, Stuey and Matty combining up the left to set Marco away, and it took a good save from Stuey’s shot to keep the score to four. With the game now entering the closing stages, and Aman having pulled off a good save from a breakaway, it was time for one last piece of magic. A clearance by the North Ryde keeper was helped on by Tex to Robbie who glanced the header and swiveled to beat his man to run on to his own flick, his first touch was then sublime as he strode on a finished low into the corner, a fifth goal and a four goal haul for Robbie with another wonderful finish. There were half chances thereafter for Al and Marco, but the main focus was on possession, and Ravens managed to keep it by the bucketload, running out time with a superb display of defensive strength and precise passing. The final whistle sounded, Ravens had made it to the Grand Final.

Well done to the boys in Black and White, this was a truly world class performance, the premiers and the only team to beat the Ravens this term proving no match for a polished performance punctuated with some quality finishing. With Thornleigh rolling over in the other game, All Saints Hunters Hill now provide the opposition for the big game at Morrison Bay on Saturday. Bring. It. On.

Goals: Brad Robbie 4

Ravens blown away in Grand Final

Gladesville Ravens 0 All Saints Hunters Hill 2 (17/08/2013 @ Morrison 4) Over 35 Div 2 GF

The day had arrived, the match programme was printed, the fans were out in force including a host of Premier League stars, and so was the mid-winter gale – this was going to be a big game for the Ravens and they were looking for a fourth win on the bounce after a devastating display against North Ryde the previous week. The players were out in force, but with news that Roids was suspended, the Ravens were somewhat destabilized, and only a late plea to the referee of his previous game to rescind a yellow card that would see him suspended, saw him grab a shirt and join the subs on the bulging Ravens bench. Ravens lined up with Aman in goal, Zorby sweeping behind Al and Marco, with Tex and Craig in the wide roles. In midfield Brad and Al were joined by Paps, back from a lengthy ban, and up front Stuey and Rob would start the game with a host of quality faces on the bench waiting to come on.

The conditions were tricky, Ravens playing into the fierce wind in the first half, goalkicks from All Saints were finding touch at the other end, and this was no way going to be a walk in the park for the boys in Black and White. Some possession up front from the Ravens disguised the fact that the ball was not there to be stroked around in the tiki taka manner the fans are used to. A half chance fell to Rob when presented with the ball from Roids, his turn in the box saw him dragged to the floor with a penalty a definite possibility, the referee waving play on as the ball danced around in the box and the chance was eventually gone. All composure that Ravens normally had in midfield was lost as the players struggled to get more than one touch on the ball, leaving the door open for some breaks from the All Saints players, but the defence stood firm, Tex leaping to clear a corner, before a ridiculous opening goal for All Saints changed the game. A corner from the right was looped in, Ravens had all the players marked up, but the solid central defender found himself completely unmarked to position himself for the header, which he nodded back across Aman and into the goal. No sooner had that happened, Ravens had a glorious chance to equalise, the ball slipped majestically into the path of Robbie, who got in front of his man, but the shot was touched wide by the keeper, Ravens settling for the corner. A terrific free kick from Roids then just cleared the bar with the keeper completely beaten, and Ravens sensed that they were coming back into the game, Craig rampant down the right and only a linesman’s flag denied another chance for Robbie. With the wind making communication difficult on the field, and with Craig taking two minutes to come off as sub, momentum was lost coming into half time, and it was All Saints who put the pressure back on, Lee having to trick his way out of trouble before an altercation with an All Saints defender saw calls for a red card, Lee left on the deck after a forearm to the face. The referee, after heavy consultation with his linesman, signaled instead for half time.

Ravens were a ragged looking team, bereft of rhythm and slow on the attack, but they were only a goal behind, and were easily in the game. With the swirling breeze now at their backs, this was make-or-break and Ravens began to get some passing going in midfield, Georgie V enjoying good possession and link up with Zorby. A first chance of the half fell awkwardly to Dan, after a good run by Robbie out wide saw the ball spill his way, the silky midfielder blasting a shot that hit a defender and went harmlessly out for a throw. A frustrating day for Craig saw him caught offside when Zorby played him through, and a free kick from Zorby caused panic in defence, Roids able to get to the ball, but unable to find a man from a very acute angle on the byline. A moment to lift the Ravens came when Tex ventured infield from his unfamiliar wide role and latched on to a loose ball, striding forward to strike from fully thirty yards, the ball sailing through the air to dip onto the bar with the keeper unable to reach it. Could this be the moment to change the game? The answer came three minutes later as a swift break was cleverly thwarted by a sliding tackle by Al, the ball though lost in midfield and played down the left where a precise cross fell invitingly at the far post where a volley was smashed into the ground and spun past the outstretched arm of Aman for 2-0. Ravens had an air of a beaten team at this point, Paps and George unable to produce the bit of magic required to prise open the stubborn All Saints defence, and with only two at the back and a midfield that was getting more and more congested, there would be little to cheer for the Ravens. Tex was the closest, after Mark had ventured gamely into the area, the ball popping out on the edge of the box, but the shot was sliced, then a corner from Craig was dangerously helped into the six yard box, but Hunters Hill held firm. With All Saints looking dangerous on the counter, the last five minutes served up the most exciting football of the game, as Ravens threw caution to the wind, but despite some enterprise from Paps, the final ball was a consistent let-down, and the final whistle blew on possibly the least pulsating game of the season from the Ravens.

All Saints Hunters Hill deserved their victory in this one, they were the ones who mastered the conditions, and showed Ravens how to finish on the day. Well done though to the Ravens in their inaugural season together, and they have shown a great deal of promise for next season when they will be back fitter and stronger for a crack at the title and a second straight Grand Final berth. Up the Ravens!

Goals: none

A final position of 3rd in the table after the three points from the home victory over All Saints were chalked off, a grand final appearance and a goalscoring record to be proud of, the mighty Gladesville Ravens Over 35 Division 2 squad will be back in division 2 next year looking to go one better and win the Premiership and the Grand Final. Well done guys, tremendous season full of the usual Ravens controversy and antics, see you all next year.

Goal scorers Rob and Con shared the golden boot with six goals between them, Rob leaving it late to bring himself into the running with his four goal haul against North Ryde. Stuey and Paps tied for third place with five goals a-piece, Paps ruing the sending off which curtailed his season and Stuey cursing a penalty miss. Craig and Brad weighed in with three goals, Dan scored two crackers, while there were one each for Marco, Halley, Georgie V and Tex, all of them very important goals.

And finally, meet some of the players…