ITS TIME TO MAKE YOUR MIND UP !!!!!!!!

Tonight (Monday) all you players will be receiving a text off Daisy asking if your available for footy this Sunday. We (Daisy & Myself) have had our say, but sometimes it's hard to make out how far these things sink-in when we keep gobbing off in the dressing rooms. We keep trying to stress that players have got to either commit more, or sign new blood-on to help Daisy out in getting a team on the pitch each Sunday. I Know things have been against us this year, with our so called Senior players unavailable nearly all season. Plus we have had a really rough ride on injuries and call offs because of work commitments. This, I can understand whittles down the enthusiasm on the players who do want to play Sunday Football but it don't help matters at all when certain players call off pathetically late or not let us know they can't play until we actually contact them. THIS IS TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!!!!

The thing is nearly all the Sunday Div 1 sides have been having the same problems and two/ three have folded already! I also know we could get players from these sides to join us but I always maintain THEY have got to be THE RIGHT type of players as I've found in the past this don't always don't help matters when the sign anyone on! I've also got to say the League this year is a pretty poor standard and even without our senior players, if our attitude was right we still could beat any of them on our day!!!!!

So this is it, it's time for the nucleus of the team (that's if you want it ) to get your arse in gear and get things moving! The thing is, IF YOU DON'T, after Thursday WE WILL CALL-IT and the POT BLACK SUNDAY TEAM will be no more! This will be a real shame as Daisy has been the backbone for the Club out for umpteen years and has done a brilliant job so it's a pity we can't see the season out and let him finish on a high! HE CERTAINLY DESERVES IT!!!! Also I can safely say that THIS WILL BE the end of Sunday football down the club as far as I'm concerned!!

SO IT'S IN YOUR HANDS!!!!!

Pot Black v Harrods

League
15-10-09

LOST 1-6

Pot Black were forced to field a much changed side for another week with injuries and call-off’s being the main reasons.

Ethan was forced to play in goal, Lansy coming in at short notice, returning in the defence, Carl and Targer in mid-field.

Although much changed, PB still showed a lot of effort commitment in the early part of the game until 10mins in and Targer chasing back, pulled a hamstring forcing PB to bring on Ross who still hasn't had a full game after injuring himself 3 weeks ago..
PB took the lead with a good goal from Ollie, chasing along ball and sliding the ball past the keeper.
Harrods equalised soon after and the half finished fairly even.

The second half started and soon PB luck run out after an opposing forward chasing a long ball which Ethan dealt with comfortably only to be caught by the forwards leg in his chest., resulting in him going off and out for 6 weeks with 3 broken ribs and Will replacing him.
This finished the game for PB with Dale bravely volunteering to go in goal although obviously not a keeper.

So another defeat although in very unlucky circumstances and no doubt the game would have been very much closer without all the bad luck endured by PB.

MOM

Alex Ingles – very good display at full-back and never stopped trying.


Message from the Manager to the Player’s

This year has been one of disappointment for me after last year. It never was going to be the same but with a squad of 28 player’s signed on, I would never had thought we would be in this position of ringing players on a Sunday morning to get a side. Injuries I can fully understand but some of the reasons given this year for not showing up has been poor to say the least and show’s very little interest in Sunday Football.

This cannot and will not continue.

We have already called-off next Sunday’s game v Etc’s because of a shortage of players with some going away for the week-end. But unless we can get a commitment from yourselves for the week-end after and going forward, we will withdraw from the league.

Also with the injury to Ethan, and if we continue, we are in desperate need of a goalkeeper, so if anybody knows someone who would be interested, please contact me or Wally at the club.

Waveney Hearts v Pot Black

Dip Farm
18-10-09
Lost 4-2

Pot Black lost this top of the table clash 4-2 but gave a good account of themselves considering the many team changes again this week due to people working or unavailable.

Waveney were soon on top at the start of the match and missed good chances before taken the lead 1 -0. Pot Black were battling well in midfield without creating many chances of there own.
Just before half-time with the best chance of the half and clean through after a good ball from Max, he put the wide of the goal.

The second half started with the wind at PB backs and looking stronger until a long ball from defence caught the defence wanting resulting in a scrambled second goal for Waveney,
To their credit PB kept trying to play football and got back into the game with a goal from Ollie. This spurred PB on and the equaliser was soon coming with a good shot from Will. PB were now on top and looking the only side to win until another poor decision by the ref gave Waveney a free-kick on the edge of the box, resulting in another scrambled goal. PB went to 3 at the back to chase the equaliser but Waveney added a fourth just before the end with another long punt from defence.

All in all, PB can consider themselves unlucky after giving a good account of themselves against one of the stronger sides in the league.

Finally a good game of football was spoilt by a display of ‘schoolmaster’ referring when the rules of respect seem to work only one way with his performance.

MOM
A.Ingles –solid performance at full-back.

Oxford Arms v Pot Black

League
18/10/09
won 10-0

This was a game where PB had a chance to redeem after the very poor display last week.
PB looked a different side from last week, with the commitment and attitude showing through.
PB were playing good football and took an early lead after good inter passing enabled Max Wall to hit a thunderous left foot shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.
Straight from the kick-off, Oxford Arms got into a tangle and with a weak back pass enabled Ethan to shoot past the keeper and give PB a 2-0 lead. The next 20 mins was fairly even with both sides creating chances and PB should have increased their lead before half-time.

The second half started as the first with PB on top and another tremendous shot from Max Wall with a right foot shoot gave PB a 3-0 lead. This killed the game of as far as Oxford Arms were concerned and then proceeding to play the rest of the game with very little interest and content to just play the ball around their 18 yrd box. Ethan scored to give PB a 4-0 lead. Max Wall then got a penalty after a strong run into the box and was fouled. Richard Reeder then run up to take the penalty after bragging he has not missed one in 28 years playing football. After a confident run up, he majestically hit the ball high and mighty over the bar with a shot more suited to Twickenham and getting 3 points.

It took almost 10 mins to recover the ball after going so far behind the goal.
The rest of the game was a non-event with Oxford Arms not trying and PB scoring at will.
The game ended a 10-0 win for PB.
Scorers:
Coops – good hat-trick
Max - 2
Ethan - 2
Will - 1
Jordon –1
Cannot remember who scored 10th –that interested
Could have been Ros – no 3 near misses- 2 off line
Reedo - No missed penalty

Tell me next week to put records straight.

Next Week old enemy Waveney Hearts Dip Farm.

MOM

Max strong mid- field display and 2 excellent goals

Juggs v Pot Black

Suffolk Cup
11/10/09
Lost 5-1

PB bowed out of the Suffolk Senior Cup at Kessingland with a very poor display.
The game was always going to be a hard game after the close league game earlier in the season.

The game started with Juggs looking the hungrier and winning every 50-50 ball. After being on top at the beginning they luckily took the lead with a deflected goal. This appeared to put some spark in PB and it was not long before Will Denton went through and put the ball past the keeper to equalise.
Juggs again took control and after poor defending they hit PB with 2 quick goals to take a 3-1 lead at half-time.

The second half was no different with Juggs showing much more desire to win then PB. 2 more goals gave Juggs a comfortable win but has to be said against a very poor performance from PB.

Players need to take a good look at themselves after such a poor display with the attitude of many players in question.

MOM
NO ONE

SO KEZ... DID YOU MEAN IT?????

Pot Black v Juggs
25-09-09
Win 4-3

On another warm Sunday morning with the pitch’s getting even harder to play good football on, PB were playing one of the unbeaten teams in the league.

The day did not start well with PB having to make several changes because of players unavailability and players not turning up on the morning of the match without giving notice to anyone. So my thanks go to Ross and Lansy who showed what commitment is by turning up to support the team knowing they did not have much chance to play but without them we would not have had 11 players which is totally unacceptable with the squad we have.

PB team started with Ethan in goal, Kez starting at right back, Ross making a welcome return in the middle of the park and Coops up front.

The game started with both sides struggling to play football on the surface but Juggs appeared to be handling the conditions the better and should have taken an early lead but blazed the ball over the bar.

The game turned PB’s way when Quinn making a good run in from the left hit a shot into the bottom corner of the net. This was the confidence booster PB wanted and took control of the game. The back four of PB looking strong against a very good Juggs forward line with Kez at right back, looking as if he had played there for years.

PB took control of the game after 2 penalty decisions in quick succession, both converted by Quinn to give him his hat-trick to give PB a 3-0 lead at half-time.

The second half was totally different after Juggs converted a penalty soon into the half and bombarded the PB goal with PB struggling to get a foot on the ball.

It was no surprise that a second goal came and the third giving the game a total different aspect with PB hanging on for a point. Ross came off after putting in a strong display in midfield but his first game for a long time was taking its toll and he was replaced by Lansy. PB were having more of the play with Lansy’s physical nature upfront giving the Juggs defence something different to think about.

With the game seemingly heading for a draw, the ball was played from the left into the path of Kez some 35 yrds out and he hit a screamer into the roof of the net much to the delight of players and the watching fans. This has to be a contender for goal of the season already. Still Juggs missed another couple of chances to equalise but PB run out winners, although rather luckily but considering the conditions and the changes requires to the team at short notice, the win is still very satisfying.

MOM

Kez - looked very solid at full-back and scored a tremendous goal to win the match.

BACK TO WINNING WAYS

Pot Black v AFC Star
13-09-09
Result won 3-1

This week was going to be a crunch game for PB following the defeat by Lake Lothing last week. This was not going to be easy against another of the ‘so called’ top teams who had surprisingly lost their first game also.

It was a much changed team this week with player’s either unavailable or injured meant the welcome return of Targer into the centre of mid-field, Reedo in goal and a new strike force of Ethan and Carl making their debuts.

The game kicked off on a bone hard pitch for the second week but both teams were trying to keep the ball on the ground to their credit. Not many chances were created at either end but PB were having the majority of the play with Targer and Max winning the important battle in the centre of the park and not giving the opposition any time on the ball.

Reedo kept PB in the game with a superb one handed save, pushing the ball round the post. Not long after the all important first goal came after neat work on the right hand side between Targer and Danny resulting in a good cross to the far post enabling Quin to score with a good header into the bottom corner of the net.

The second goal was not long coming with Carl chasing onto a through ball and cleverly clipping it past the keeper.
Half-time came with PB leading 2-0 and with a much improved display from last week.

The second half was played in the same vein as the first with both sides looking for a goal but neither team creating chances and the PB back four looking strong in every position.
PB nearly got the important goal but Targer brought an excellent save from the keeper, tipping his goal bound shot over the bar. Kieron came on the right side to replace Danny who had a good game. The next change saw Ollie replacing Ethan upfront who had linked well with Carl considering this was their first outing together.

The 3 points looked to be heading PB's way until a controversial penalty gave AFC the chance to get back into the game with 15mins to go. Carl then got injured and was replaced by Lansy upfront. Still PB looked to finish the game off and did so in the last minute after good work by Quin on the left, sending over a cross which just eluded Lansy but he retrieved the ball and sent an inch perfect cross into the path of Targer to smash the ball into the roof of the net and deservedly get the 3 points.

This was a greatly improved performance on the previous week and this is what PB need to produce every week if we are to emulate last seasons success.

MOM
Simon Durrant (Targer). Superb game considering a long time out injured.
No game next week

FALSE START...

Lake Lothing v Pot Black FC
06-09-09
Result lost 4-0

The start of a new season started with a game against Lake Lothing at Normanston Park.

For the start of a new season, let’s start with a gripe regarding the facilities the council playing grounds have.
With the actual disgusting state of the playing surface and changing facilities, it must be time for the league committee to challenge the prices charged by the local council.
The pitch although hard because of the weather which the council could have no responsibility for, they must be accountable for the playing surface, which had various amounts of sand over it to fill in the holes on the pitch rather than repair.
This is not an excuse on why we lost because it was the same for both teams but I think it is about time these issues were raised to the local council.

Now for the game, the game was over within the first 5 minutes after the opposing manager flagged for off-side and was challenged by Hogde using foul and abusive language in the eyes of the referee, sent him off. Although completely in the wrong, this seemed a bit harsh so early in the game.

Playing with 10 men still PB were the only team trying to play football and gave a good account of themselves with Max Wall in mid-field covering every inch of the ground. The first half came to an end with neither side looking likely to score but still PB had battled well to come in level at the break.

Second half continued in the same vein although Lake Lothing came out looking more likely to score than in the first half especially from set plays with PB defensive marking leaving a lot to be desired.
Tom Miles should have scored when put through but the keeper made a good save.
With the heat and 10 men taking its toll, Lake scored with 10 mins to go from a corner with more poor marking in the defence.
3 more goals came when PB left themselves exposed by going 3 at the back looking for a draw.

So a poor result but PB must take some positives from a game against one of the title challengers which could have gone either way if played with 11 players on each side.

MOM
MAX WALL – never stopped running all game.

Next Week
Normanston Park (bring your bucket & spades for the beach!!!!)

JIGSAW

Here's something for our lovely bloggers to pass some time away
Just click on the link below!

SUNDAY TEAM Jigsaw Puzzle

NOW FOR THE END OF SEASON PRESENTATION

The last ball has been kicked in anger for another season and what a season its been.

The Saturday L'Oranges have grown in stature and football capability to now be deservedly known as the second best side in the Lowestoft & District League. Not a small feat when only 18 months ago we were struggling to stop ourselves sliding back down to the second division. Danny Mc. has done a splendid job (no , I'm not forgetting all the others which make a club tick as you much needed and appreciated), he's brought in a few new faces, a lot of experience and with our OWN players coming on leaps and bounds it has been an unbelievable improvement! My only advice I can give is maybe, NOW YOU SHOULD BELIEVE MORE IN YOURSELVES as the League never Lies!!!! Anyway , well done, its been great, look out the Hearts!

The Sunday Mob have had an incredible season, THE BEST EVER! If anyone would have offered us the three awards we have won this year at the beginning of the season we would have snapped their hand off! As it was, we were a victim of our own success and in the end, Sunday's game was one match to far! After the exertions of Friday night there's was no fuel in the tank and the spark we would have needed to go that extra mile, was missing! And rightly so!! On reflection, no one in their right minds could expect amateur footballers play two massive games within 36 hours but we put ourselves in that position so that's the way it is! There's no good saying what if? Because no decent side would throw games to make the future easier! I've got to thank everyone, Daisy , Max and all the players, for the time and attitude but the most incredible thing is what about all those loyal supporters who turned out to cheer us on. It was like an old get-together, old players, girlfriends, thousands of new babies, parents and people from other teams all willing us on! This in itself shows that people respect us as a football club and we must be doing things right!

So all we've got left is the small matter of presentation night!!!! Saturday May 30th. It should be a great night! I have got to remind you that Pot Black have got a fishing match next day so I will want to be home at a reasonable time!!! Yea alright!!!

POT BLACK V WAVENEY 10 TH. MAY2009

Pot Black v Waveney Hearts
Dip Farm
10-05-09
Result 0-1

This was to be the match that would decide the league champions with nothing less than a victory needed for Pot Black to win the league.

The match was played on a warm sunny day together with a bone hard pitch after weeks without any significant rain. This did not help PB to play their attacking minded flowing football and suited the long ball tactics of Waveney.

The game started with Waveney looking the more determined and winning most fifty/fifty balls and PB looking tired after winning the cup in a very hard fought game on Friday night. The effects of this game had more of an effect on players than most would have expected. Still a couple of chances went begging before Waveney took the lead with a shot which was going wide only to hit a bump and divert into the corner of the net. This was just the start Waveney started and proceeding to defend their 18 yd box in numbers which they did well on a very narrow pitch, restricted PB to half-chances and very little space to play in.

Half-time came with Waveney leading 1-0 and a super effort needed by PB in the second half to win the league.

The second half was very much one sided with all the play in the Waveney half and PB trying their best to find that elusive equaliser. Good chances went begging and the time wasting tactics of Waveney throughout the second half was beginning to annoy players and supporters alike. Still PB could not find that goal which would put Waveney under a lot more pressure defending a draw rather than a lead.
The game ended with Waveney victorious and crowned League champions and PB finishing runners-up.

In summary, PB players should be proud of themselves for having such a tremendous season, winning the league cup, finishing second in the league and also reaching the final of the major Suffolk County Cup Competition which other clubs dream off.
This record makes PB the number 1 club in Lowestoft Sunday Football which is something we would have dreamed off at the start of the season.

Just to sign-off in what has been a very long hard season for all but my thanks to all the players especially, supporters and staff of PB, who have all played their part in the most successful season ever for Pot Black FC Club.
MOM
Max Blowers

Finally my congratulations to Danny and his Saturday team for achieving runners up spot in the League and having a great season also.

Daisy

League Cup Final
Crown Meadow
Pot Black FC v Lings
8-05-09
won 3-1

Pot Black won their first trophy this season by beating Lings Honda in a hard fought game which PB eventually won 3-1. All the players deserve credit by playing their hearts out and running themselves into the ground. Now they need to recover quickly for the last game of the season which PB must win to take the league title also and complete the double.

The cup final started with both sides battling for every ball looking for that early lead and it came after 1 min of play with Liam cutting in from the left and hitting a right foot shot into the top corner of the net much to the delight of the players and supporters.
PB carried the excellent start on and were playing some good football which deserved another goal.
Lings were playing some neat football in midfield but with the never ending running and hustling of PB’s midfield, they could not get the ball forward enough to create any chances. PB were unlucky not to increase their lead on several occasions but good goalkeeping and bad luck prevented this.
Lings eventually got an equaliser form a corner which was not dealt with by the PB defence allowing a Lings player to knock the ball into the net. This could have upset PB players but in the very next attack from the kick-off, the referee played a good advantage following a bad tackle, allowing Coops to play a defence splitting ball for Rory to chase and beat the advancing keeper with a superb finish to give PB the lead again. PB continued in the ascendancy and went looking for a third which came after excellent work on the wing by Max Blowers and hitting a superb cross for Rory to send a header into the top corner and send the players and supporters in raptures again.
Half-time was approaching when Lings had a good chance to get back into the game but missed a golden opportunity by blazing wide of the goal.

The half-time whistle blew with PB having a 3-1 lead and one hand on the cup.

The second half stated with Lings coming out with all guns blazing to get an early goal to get back into the match but PB players responded by running and chasing every ball giving Lings very few chances to score. Lings were having much more of the play and PB’s back four stood their ground and defended to a man to prevent Lings scoring. PB were playing on the break and still looked dangerous when ever they got into Lings half.
Lings looked as if they had scored and were starting to celebrate following a header which look destined for the top corner until Kev got a hand to the ball to deflect over the bar and make a miraculous save. Several PB players ere going down with cramp with the amount of running and chasing they had done, no more than Liam and Birdy who both had to be substituted allowing Kieron and Jordon to come on. The game carried on in the same vein with Lings chasing a goal and PB defending everything. As the game wore on Lings were forced to push men forward and this enabled PB to break at pace and create chances to kill the game off. Kieron should have done better when clean through with only the keeper to beat. Max Blowers was the next player to be forced off with cramp allowing Rob to replace him at fullback. With time running out, Max Wall nearly killed the game off with a superb 25yrd that beat the keeper all ends up only to hit the inside of the post and bounce along the goal line.
The final whistle went much to the delight of the players and supporters and the celebrations started as Liam lifted the trophy.
Finally hard luck on Lings but credit to them in the way they took defeat and playing their part in a very good game of football.

So on we go to Dip Farm on Sunday for another crucial game in what has been a very long and hard but enjoyable season.

MOM
Max Wall who covered every inch of Crown Meadow and so nearly got the goal he deserved

Suffolk Sunday Cup Final

(NOT EVEN HEAD MASCOT PAULINE COULD DISTRACT AN EXCELLENT WORTHAM SIDE)

Wortham Dolphin United v Pot Black
Lost 6-0

Pot Blacks quest for the treble came to a halt at Bungay Towns pitch after a 6-0 defeat against a very good, strong and physical Wortham Dolphin United who fully deserved their victory.
The game was played on a very hard and bumpy pitch which suited the long ball tactics of the opposition and difficult for PB to get their passing game going.

For the first 10 mins PB gave a good account of themselves and could have taken the lead. But the next 20 mins was all Wortham when defensive errors gave the opposition a 3-0 lead and gave PB a mountain to climb. To their credit heads did not drop and tried hard to get back into the game with several chances going begging but on the stroke of half-time and against the run of play, Wortham scored a fourth and virtually killed the game off.

PB started the stronger team in the second half with the midfield getting a foot on the ball and nearly scoring on several occasions. But Wortham then hit PB with 2 scorching goals worthy of winning any final to give them a 6-0 lead and the cup.
PB still went searching for a consolation goal to give their supporters something to cheer about but it was not to be.

Although beaten PB players should be proud of themselves in reaching the final of the major cup competition in Suffolk with very young side which bears well for the future of the club.

With the league Cup Final at Crown Meadow on the 8TH May and the 2 league games to play there is still plenty for PB to play for.

Finally, thanks to all the supporters who were there to cheer the team on.

CAN WE DO IT? YES ** ***

Not long now! All the season has been slowly building up for the next few matches and what a cracker to start off with! It can't get any bigger than the final of the Suffolk Senior Cup. The woman are getting hold of anything orange to wear on the day, Daisy & myself are getting a pre match breakfast at the red Herring and Rob has somehow roped in Martell to do leg massages in the dressing room before the game. The coach is all but full and Bungay are waiting on tender hooks for the La-Orange Army!! Pot Black's chairman after serving his one match ban can't wait for it to start and Baxter has been warned he might have to get his wallet out of his pocket..(anyone gotta shoehorn!)

Congratulations to the whole team on another fine win against Harrods last week so what do that mean? Oh Yea, another final and this time at the Crown Meadow on Friday 8TH. May( if everything works out right with other fixtures). Right back to the more immediate future and the massive game this Sunday. Wortham are apparently in three finals also and if they are considered favourites all the better for US!!!!!! Right lads, the thing we all need to do is not too get as worked up as we were in the semi final, as it actually hampered our game. We know we can play damn good football, we know we've got players who can score goals, so lets give it everything, MAKE SURE WE ENJOY THE GAME and on whatever result have a BLOODY GREAT DAY!!!!

COME ON YOU ORANGE!!!!

PT BLACK V HARRODS 19/4/09 SEMI- FINAL CUP

Pot Black v Harrods
League Cup Semi-Final
19-04-09
won 3-2

Pot Black continued their march in quest of 3 trophies with a hard earned victory against a good and well organised Harrod’s team.
The match was played on a very dry hard and bumpy pitch. Pot Black struggled to get their passing game going and it was the long ball of Harrods that seemed to be paying dividends in the opening exchanges. PB still wasting some useful chances to take the lead. It was Harrods who drew first blood from a corner an opposing player was left with a free header which rebounded from the cross-bar into the path of an Harrods player to header the ball into the top of the goal..
To PB’s credit, heads did not drop and in effect the goal sprung PB into action, Liam cracked a 20yrd free-kick past the wall and only the post saved Harrods. PB were well worth the equaliser when it came, from a clearance from a corner, Hodg hit a perfect cross enabling his central defensive partner,
Darren to plant the ball past the keeper.

Half-time came with the scores at 1-1.

The second half started like the finish of the first with PB in total control and looking for that decisive second goal which came from Rory getting to a cross before the keeper and heading the ball into the net. PB were now looking to kill the game with a third and should have wrapped the Game up after Rory clean though on to goal unselfishly tried to pass to Liam to score but unfortunately strayed off-side. Harrods came back into the game when Tom appeared to push an opposing forward to the ground and resulting in a penalty which gave Harrods the equaliser. Again PB responded in a positive manner and took the game straight back to Harrods to gain the upper hand again. Kev in goal was nearly the scorer of the all important third goal when from a long clearance the ball bounced high over the keeper and rebounded from the cross-bar, with Liam nearly knocking in the rebound.
As the game was nearing extra –time, Liam chasing a knock on from Rory beat the opposing keeper to the ball and eventually heading the ball into the net to give PB a great victory.
After last weeks dismal performance, this was a victory which showed PB’s commitment and desire as a team to continue the dream of a historic treble season.
This will need to be continued in the next couple weeks beginning with the Suffolk County Final at Bungay this week..

MOM
Centre back pairing of Hodg and Daaaaaaaaarren

THE MANAGERS (LATE) RPORT

"A TYPICAL SUNDAY MORNING LOOK!"

Carlton v Pot Black 12/4/09
League Cup
Won 4-3 after extra time.

This report has been along while coming because it has taken me this while to calm down and decide to try to write something that is best forgotten.

The good points were, getting a team together with so many call-offs and injuries. Winning with a depleted side but still should have been strong enough to see of the opposition more easily.
Danny opening the scoring and keeping his record of scoring in every round.
Kev’s goal which was worthy of winning any ‘goal of the month’ competition and after watching Man Utd was very similar to Ronaldo’s last night.
Birdy’s energy and commitment during the whole game.
Liam’s attitude incoming on as a sub when he should not have been involved at all and gaining, scoring the penalty which won us the game.
Banksy and Woody for turning out and after not wanting to play.

Players keeping on the pitch when injured.
That’s about the good now the bad.
Myself and supporters alike getting soaked on a wet and dismal Sunday morning.
The attitude and commitment of some players in thinking the game was won before we started because we were playing a team from a lower league.
Wally getting so annoyed at the display resulting in a 1 match touchline ban and going fishing instead.

We won and the treble is still on but with the semi final this week against Harrods at Normanston before the big one next week, players need to realise that they have to perform each week if they are to retain their place in the starting line up.

Daisy



MOM THE BIRD

CHAIRMAN SERVES A SUSPENSION.

After ranting and raving on the line last sunday during the carlton red house game, club Chairman Mick Wall will serve a ONE MATCH TOUCHLINE SUSPENSION!!!! He went home on Sunday afternoon still hyperventilating and unable to enjoy his Sunday dinner of Ham, Salad and Jacket potato( crap dinner, but his missus, Glyn, was out on the piss again). Thinking he was slowly turning into the Lake Lothing manager he is now taking lessons in Pilate's and Yoga.

I Know the inconsiderate tosser didn't take into account that it was Easter weekend and the players were all carrying mega hangovers and we were playing a side from two leagues lower, so he should have cut them a bit of SLACK! BUT.... We all know what he's like!! He think he knows everything about football and must be one of those frustrated fathers who was useless on the pitch and is still pretending he's out there thinking he would make it all look SO EASY...

Anyway, on his personal heart monitor, which is compulsory for old men his age watching Sunday morning footy teams, stated bleeping so fast it was more like a high pitched whistle and his face got so red it looked like a smacked arse! Diasy who was not much better (but we put that down to the SMALL MAN syndrome) put the ban in place and told him to go fishing next week!!!! Another point on the players defence is we know you are not meaningfully trying to play like a group of NUMPTY'S but I didn't see many happy faces when things are going down the drain!

On the supporters front, injured Hodge turned up trying to cement his place for Bungay and wanted to slit his wrists, Ready got so worked up he used 3 days of insulin by half time and Dale Andrew's mum was so desperate to go, that she promised dale's dad his fathers day present on corton cliffs as long they left straight away!

So this sunday when you take Harrods to the cleaners yet again, my thoughts will be with you but I just hope the attitudes right and you don't keep TRYING TO DRIBBLE IN THE WRONG AREAS, play simple passes and work your nuts off AS A TEAM and I 'll see you all next Sunday for the BIGGEST game in Pot Black's Footballing Life!

P.S. A quiet word in your shell like. You are playing for another trophy this week as the final is at the meadow and Daisy is basing his last few selections on this weeks game! So no excuses...

Luv Mick (gobby) Wall.

POT BLACK V LAKE LOTHING 5 APRIL 2009

Pot Black v Lake Lothing
05-04-09
Win 5-2

Pot Black faced their biggest test so far if they were continue in their quest to win the league playing a Lake Lothing side that had beaten them previously.

The match was played on a lovely Sunday morning ideal for good football apart from the pitch being on the firm side. There was a large crowd to watch this game especially from Waveney Hearts who were hoping for a different outcome of the match.
The match started with PB having the upper hand and playing all the football and Lake relying on the long ball approach, which was being easily dealt with by PB’s back four. PB should have taken an early lead from a cross, which left Birdy with a chance, but his shot was not strong enough and left the keeper with an easy save. Still PB was having the majority of the game with Max and Hodg in the centre of midfield controlling everything. The first goal was not long coming after excellent work by Liam on the wing left Rory in the middle unmarked to hit a shot into the corner of the net. This was no more then PB deserved and soon after number 2 come, after good work by Rob at full back, enabled Birdy to bravely jump and beat the keeper to the ball and header it into the net. PB was now in total control, the only problem being as it was for both teams, the poor decision making of the referee on numerous occasions.
PB nearly put the game beyond Lake with Liam left with a clear run on to goal only for the keeper to make an excellent save. But as games go, Lake got back into the it after a bad mistake by Reedo allowed Lake to pull a goal back. Half-time came with PB leading 2-1 and deserving more after a tremendous first half by the team.

After a half-time pep-talk which consisted of more of the same, the second half started with Liam braking down the right wing beaten several players and hitting a shot under the advancing keeper and into net for an excellent PB’s third goal. This was just the start we needed and PB continued to pass the ball through midfield to give Lake problems, rather than rely on the long ball tactics of Lake, which PB’s defence were now handling well. The only concern was coming from set pieces and from one, Lakes second goal come. After clearing the corner, a shot from the edge of the box ending up in PB corner of the net, much to the delight of Lake’s players and the watching Waveney following. Birdy had to be replaced by Kieron soon after having a good game on the right side of midfield but getting a re-occurrence of sore shins.
PB responded excellently and continued to cause Lake issues with Liam outstanding every time he got the ball and on a couple of occasions when penned into the corner only to drop a shoulder and quick feet leaving numerous defenders in his wake was worth getting up on Sunday mornings to watch. The only thing missing was the elusive fourth goal and several misses which could have come back to haunt PB but after good work by Rory and hitting powerful shot which the keeper saved well but only managing to palm the ball into the path of Coops to put the ball into the net and this time it was the players and supporters of PB to celebrate. The game was now almost won but PB looked for a fifth which their football deserved today and that was not long coming after excellent work by Kieron beating several players and getting to the by-line to hit a perfect cross for Rory to header into the net to give the final result a tremendous 5-2 win for PB.

This was an excellent performance by the team who responded to some criticism lately with a display of fluent football together with the right commitment, which they will need to show in the coming weeks with the treble still on.

MOM:
Liam Harvey-Cooper – superb all-round effort and his skills on the ball was something to see.

Next Week
Carlton Red House – Normo, League Cup.

BACK TO THE LEAGUE(THE FINAL RUN-IN)

It's here! This Sunday the match which can decide our season. Lake Lothing, the only team to beat us this season and this is our chance to get even. If we win, runners-up position is practically ours and also keeping the real dream alive of beating Waveney Farts on the last game of the season to secure the league title!!! If anyone needs slapping around the chops to get them up for this one they shouldn't be playing FOOTBALL! The attitude has got to be right from the beginning with everyone putting the work in! If we play like we did against the hearts (when we got ROBBED)I've got no worries at all! One thing we will have got to do is to play for the full 90 minutes as Lake has won a lot of important games in the last few seconds.We all know we can play, were on pitch 1 on Normo, which is a good omen so lets show Lake what this club is all about and we are not just the league pretenders!

Also, I hope our Saturday side all the British for this coming week, as they have what can only be described as their biggest match of the season. Everyone would have loved to play Hearts in the final but this wasn't to be, so beating them in the semi will be just as good . I haven't watched any of the PB/Hearts matches before so I'm looking forward to it no end! It's been a terrific season for both our teams and I haven't been so up for local football in years. The longer this can carry on the better but one thing I am worried about is......... the fishing season starts in 3 weeks and I haven't even looked at my GEAR YET!!! It's ALL YOUR BLOODY FAULT!!

Juggs V Pot Black (League Cup)

M.O.M. REEDO (The only photo I can find of him)

Juggs v Pot Black
Cup 29-03-09
Win 6-2

PB were drawn against Juggs from Div 2 who have won their league already this year and will be playing Div 1 football next year. So this was potentially going to be a hard game for PB and although the final score of 6-2 appeared comfortable, the game itself was never and Juggs deserve a lot of credit for the way they played and on that form should have no problems next year.

The game started with PB having to make changes again with Danny starting up front and Liam taking a central midfield role. Juggs started with 10 men but it was the home side that were showing a lot more commitment for the game and had the lion’s share of the opening exchanges. They could have taken a deserved lead on several occasions but for poor finishing and superb goal keeping by Reedo. One save in particular, where he stopped the original shot but got up to block the rebound was one from the top drawer.
PB were struggling to put 2 passes together and seemed intent on trying to hit a difficult pass or hit a long ball when simple 10 yrd pass would have better. Kieron had to be replaced after a1/2 hr with an injury allowing Rob to replace him. Just before half-time PB took the lead when a defender clearing the ball passed the ball straight to Rory allowing him a clear ran in to goal before passing to Birdy to put the ball into the net. The half-time whistle blew with PB somewhat fortunately winning 1-0.

The second started again with Juggs on the front foot and soon equalised when a forward got through onto goal onto goal only for Reedo to make a good save but the rebound fell kindly and the ball ended up in the PB net.
Birdy then got inured after a heavy tackle, which resulted in Lansy coming on and PB reshuffling again. Liam then showed his class with a fee-kick from 30yrds, which he took quickly and planted the ball into the top left corner of the net. Juggs soon equalised after another good save from Reedo resulting in the ball clearing to the edge of the box where a Juggs player hooked the ball over his head and into the top of the PB net.
The game was evenly balances now and with both sides looking for that 3rd goal and importantly it went to PB when after a goalmouth scramble, Danny blasted the ball into the roof of the net. PB’s fourth was not long coming when Liam took the ball round the keeper only for him to bring him down and a penalty being given. After a long delay which resulted in the keeper having to leave the game through injury, Reedo stepped up to take the penalty and duly planted the into the top left hand corner of the net.
The game was now all but over and further goals from Liam and Rory gave the final score of 6-2 for PB.
Although PB advance into the next round and the triple is still on, they will have to play a lot better to achieve this.
MOM
Reedo: excellent saves and showed a how a penalty should be taken
Next Week: Lake Lothing Normanston Park , pitch 1

POT BLACK V ETC'S

Pot Black v Etcs
22-03-09
Result 4-3

This game had all the potential to be a banana skin for PB with some players out celebrating Daaaaareeerens birthday and several call-offs on Saturday evening due to injury.
But to the player’s credit, Pot Black kept their league title hopes alive with a 4-3 victory to upset the watching supporters of Waveney Hearts and dent their claim they had already won the league in the Journal this week. This was on top of the fact that several of our SENIOR PLAYERS unavailable there was nothing else for them to do but to settle back and watch two teams play A game of football!!!!!!!!!!!

The game started with PB struggling to put 2 passes together on a hard bumpy pitch.
and playing into a strong wind.
The first 10 mins was even with both sides not getting the upper hand although Rory French did look dangerous every time he got the ball. The versatile Kev Sherwood playing at the centre of defence also shone in defence for PB.
After 25 mins PB took the lead and it was that man Rory running on to a through ball leaving the last defender in his wake before a hitting a powerful shot into the corner of the net.
This was hopefully the spur that PB needed but unfortunately the equaliser was not long coming when a mistake by Reedo in goal enabled a soft equaliser.

This was against the run of play but PB soon had the opportunity to go ahead when a long ball was cleverly controlled by Rory in the box only to be brought to the ground by the opposing keeper who made up for his mistake with a good save from Rory’s penalty. The half-time whistle came with the game evenly balanced and PB needing to put in a greatly improved second half performance.

After a half-time rollicking and Liam coming on to replace the injured Birdy and partner Rory upfront.
PB came out with the wind advantage, PB starting to get on top of their game and had chances to increase their lead. The pressure was telling with several corners in quick succession but credit to the Etcs keeper who managed to get a fist on the ball every time. But the vital goal came in the most unlikely way. From a long clearance from the keeper, Kev Sherwood spotting him off his line, lobbed the keeper from 40yrds in typical Beckham style which would have made the back pages of the daily tabloids.
The third was soon coming after excellent defensive work by Coop’s wining the ball on the edge of the area and passing a good ball for Rory to use his pace and blast the ball through the keeper’s legs. Etcs came back into the game with a 20yrd fee-kick which was excellently taken, bending the ball over the wall and into the top corner.
The game could have gone either way but after more good work by Rory on the left wing and crossing into the box left Max Wall with a chance which he blasted into the net. Still Etcs to their credit did not die and scored again to give the game an edgey last 10 minutes but PB held out to win.
3 games to go, 3 wins and the title is ours despite Waveney’s claims.

MOM
Kev Sherwood: tower of strength at the back and a goal to savour.

Next week: Juggs Kessingland League Cup

TIME FOR THOUGHT!!!!!!!

12 games gone, over 1000 minutes of football played, buckets of sweat been shed but do you really want to crown Waveney 'Cheats' league CHAMPIONS because your incapable of beating etcs this Sunday!!!! Wouldn't they really love it when we beat them last game of the season and they will still ram it down our throats that it doesn't matter as POT BLACK threw it away two weeks previous, when they lost to etcs, because they were too PISSED! I know its Daaaaarrrrrennnnn's birthday and 21 of the lads are going to have plenty of drink, have a great time. So have a good night, don't do nothing really silly,(like getting arrested)but keep a thought somewhere in that addled brain of yours that there's still an important game of footy in the morning! The thing is when the seasons disappeared down the plughole that THUMPING HEAD will feel 1000 times worse with me shouting down your LUGHOLE!!!

Lastly, I know you've all noticed those whooping great lugs on the side of my head and the animal which it is associated with? Well, I don't forget ANYTHING either, so at the presentation night or on a the bike ride in the summer, when anyone tries to bring up "WHAT A BRILLIANT SEASON WE HAD!" Don't expect sentimental crap if we throw it away ourselves!!!

WALLY & DAISY

POT BLACK V HARRODS 15 MARCH 2009

Pot Black v Harrods
15-03-08
Result win 5-1

As the season draws to a close, PB need to win all 4 remaining league games if they are to be champions. Having drawn once in the league already this season with Harrods this was always going to be a tough match.
PB had a changed side with the formidable pairing of Danny and Lansy on the bench to put the fear of god up the front men should they not perform.

Today’s game kicked off in near perfect conditions although the pitch was slightly on the hard side. The early stages were fairly even with neither side bothering the opposing keeper. PB was struggling to put 2 passes together and was continually being outfought by a Harrods midfield, which meant they kept relying on the long ball too much. After 25 mins Harrods took the lead after good work put their forward through with a run on to goal and gave Kev Sherwood no chance. Still PB struggled to put 2 passes together but still managed to create and waste some good chances to equalise. Half-time approached and it looked as If PB would go in 1-0 down but with the best move of the match switching the ball from one wing to another resulting in a good cross for Liam to convert.
There was still time from a throw near Harrods 18yrd line, Liam controlled the ball and twisted in one movement to plant the ball in the bottom corner to give PB a 2-1 lead at half-time.

The next goal was crucial to the outcome of the game and with only 1 minute gone in the second half, Harrods keeper done well to parry a shot, but unluckily saw it bounce up to Rory who nodded the rebound in to give PB a 3-1 lead. This gave the PB the confidence they needed and were now playing some neat football. With Harrods heads dropping it was all one way traffic and several good chances went begging before more good work from one wing to the other, left COOPS with a run onto goal and neatly put the ball into the net. Rob was subbed to let Danny have a much waited come back up front with Liam going wide. With his first touch, a delightful swivel and superb through ball to Harvey should have brought another goal but the surprise of it must have put Liam off! Coops then had to be replaced with Lansy to partner Danny with Rory returning to a wide position. There was still time for a fifth when a superb free-kick from Max on the left let Rory show his great heading ability by out jumping the defence to plant the ball in the roof of the net to give PB a 5-1 lead.

Overall a pleasing result and a superb second half showing that will need to be repeated in the last 3 games of the season to give PB a chance of winning the league.

MOM
Dale Andrews – never gave their danger man Quin a chance.

Pot Black 3 Lake Lothing 5

When the manager (daisy-wenger-edmunds) and the chairman (mick -abramovich-wall) had to go for a scouting visit at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid this weekend the players sadly went to rack and ruin!! Apparently, the story from vice-captain Max Wall was that the display was woeful! Finding his opinion somewhat distorted and taken into account he wasn't playing as he was being sick two hours before,( because of a couple of shandies) I decided to ring a few other players up and get their match report. Having spoke to Liam, Daaaaarrrren, Woody, my sister milly, the groundsman, a woman walking her dog, the dog, it was unanimous we were utter CRAP! I could say never mind! Forget it, There's plenty of more games left! But the point is if we don't get it right this week you can kiss goodbye to the entire season right now! The thing I don't understand is the comment that the players didn't look up for it! If a team can't get motivated when trying to win and cup and league double there's something seriously wrong with our playing personnel ! I hope the players are not getting to big for their boots because if you look at the games we've scrapped through by the skin of our teeth, if we don't play at least 90% capacity we won't win another game this season!!!! Our next game is Harrods, which we know will be another close match, so if anyone can't get themselves UP FOR IT please let us know as we can try someone else and will also save you an ear bashing of US!!!!!

So come -on lets get that PB spirit back and prove Lake Lothing and the others wrong and we

are a decent side........

Pot Black FC reach final of Sunday Senior Cup

Pot Black completed a great 2-1 win over a strong Whitton Maypole side at Leiston to reach the final of the Sunday Senior Cup and join a select group of sides from the Lowestoft Sunday League who have achieved this prestigious feat.

The pitch at Leiston was sandy and very bumpy which did not help Pot Blacks passing game. The game started evenly with both sides looking for the first goal of the game. Whitton were relying on playing a long ball from defence, which they did very effectively and were causing Pot Blacks defence some anxious moments. After 25 minutes they took the lead after a good shot from the edge of the box flew over the keepers head and into the lead, much to the delight of players and supporters. Pot Black then had the lion’s share of the game without creating too many chances and good defending by the Whitton defence. Liam Harvey had the best chance just before half-time to equalise but the keeper made a good save blocking his shot and the ball rebounding to safety.

So half time came with Pot Black losing 1-0 and a strong half-time pep talk needed. The second half started with Pot Black looking for that elusive goal and were pushing too many players forward which resulted in them getting caught on the break far too easily. Indeed at this time of the match Richard Reeder in goal kept Pot Black in the match with a string of fine saves. Pot Black fought there way back into the game but still did not threaten the Whitton goal with any purpose. But they should have equalised when the ball rebounded of the keeper to the edge of the box where Michael Hodgson bravely dived to header the ball only to see it go past the post. With time ticking away, Adam Sivell came on to steady the midfield and show composure on the ball, which had been missing before. Pot Black were now looking for that goal and put Kev Sherwood on, enabling Max Blowers to move upfront. The last change came with Anthony Ogogo coming on to use his pace down the flanks. With Pot Black pressing for that equaliser, it was one way traffic now and with 15 minutes to go with the ball bouncing about in the penalty area and eventually coming out to Kieron who placed the ball into the top corner of the net. It was now the turn of PB players and supporters to celebrate. Pot Black was now looking to finish the game before the dreaded extra-time and perhaps penalties. From a corner of the left Adam Sivell rose to meet the ball only to see it fly over the bar. But with 5 minutes to go the goal come after good work by Anthony Ogogo on the left and putting a good ball into the box which Rory French meet before the oncoming keeper to lob the ball over his head and into the goal which sent the players and supporters delirious. The next 5 minutes seemed like the longest ever but eventually the referee blew for full time and then the celebrations started.

Not a vintage display by PB but one full of commitment to get the result that mattered and all players and supporters can now look forward to the final on April 26 against Wortham Dolphin United at a neutral ground.

Waveney Tarts V Pot Black F.C.

Waveney Hearts v Pot Black
Dip Farm
22-02-09
Result 3-3

Both clubs came into the top of the table clash defending an unbeaten record.
PB for the first time in a long time had a full squad to pick from. Richard Reeder returned in goal after returning from his work commitments, David Shade continued at the after his impressive debut last week and Rory French returned upfront to partner Liam.

The game started with both sides trying to play football on a difficult bumpy surface.
PB were having the lions share of possession and could have taken the lead on several occasions. Hearts were content to play on PB mistakes and hit long balls out of defence which were easily dealt with by the defence.
Hodge and Max in the centre were commanding in midfield winning all the challenger’s and creating a lot of problems for Hearts.

After 20 mins the deserved goal came, following a corner from the right Rory rose majestically to plant a header into the top corner. Still PB pressed and could have got a second before a diabolical decision by the referee to give Hearts a penalty following a handball decision which clearly hit the defenders face and was seen by all players and supporters alike apart from the referee. After the customary bookings and the fines, this explains why clubs are struggling to keep going. I do not condone dissent but after such a poor decision I can understand players frustration with the officials.
The penalty was converted to make the score 1-1 which was totally unjustified at this stage of the match.
This spurred Hearts on and deflated PB and for the next 10mins, Hearts were in control and should have been given a legitimate penalty when Darren Laws completely wiped out an attacker from behind when clean through, only this time the referee the only person not to see it.(2 wrongs do not make a right though springs to mind).It is this inconsistency with referees that infuriate clubs and players alike.
The first half finished 1-1.

The second half started with both sides looking for the get the all important second goal but PB were dealt another blow 5 mins into the second half when David Shade went for tackle which the ref saw enough to warrant a second yellow card and duly sent him off to make PB play almost the entire second half with 10men. Considering the good spirit the game had been played in with no bad tackles and the consequence of the first booking, a more experienced referee would have taken a different stance.
This seemed to spur PB on and a reshuffle of the pack meant that Jordon had to be replaced to enable Kev Sherwood to return at centre-half.
Still Hearts were showing very little as an attacking force and PB were controlling the game. It was no surprise that PB took the lead after good interpassing, left Liam with a clear ran on to goal, the keeper made good save but it rebounded into the path of Rory to slide into the empty net much to the delight of players and supporters alike.




PB continued to press forward to their credit and scored a good goal after Max Wall made a break down the left wing and crossed to the edge of the box where Rory showed his class by controlling the ball and hitting a screamer into the top corner before the keeper moved to give PB a 3-1 lead.
PB were now in complete control and it took another mysterious decision by the referee when Liam got away on the left wing and pushed the ball past the on-coming defender only for the defender to carry on with his tackle and professionally wipe him out. PB were given a free-kick and almost unbelievably no action taken by the referee.
Adam Sivell took over from Liam in mid-field for a fresh par of legs. Hearts were still not offering much but it took another huge slice of luck to get them back into the game. Following a harmless cross from the right, Reeder went down to collect the ball only for the ball to hit a divot and shoot off over his head enabling an opposing forward to put the ball into the net.
Hearts must have thought all their luck had come in one game and went looking for a thoroughly underserved equaliser which they got from a 30yrd shot which flew into the top corner of the net.
Still PB looked for winner but the game ended 3-3 and with Hearts thankful to hang onto their unbeaten record.
PB can take a lot of credit from this game considering the circumstances during the game and playing with 10 men for the second half but still being the better footballing team throughout the game.
This bodes well for next week when we play our Suffolk Cup semi-final at Leiston.
Last but not least a word for the referee who controlled the game well but got some big decisions wrong for both sides.

MOM
THE TEAM GOES WITHOUT SAYING.

But I would like to mention a couple of people Rory with an excellent hat-trick and endless running up front alone for most of the second half and Max Blowers playing at centre-half who played with an assurance well beyond his age.


HOT NEWS(BAD)
Hearts have lodged an appeal on the fact that we played 4 senior players instead of the allowed 3. It appears that we should have only had 3 in the team and not as your secretary thought, 3 senior players on the field at the same time, which we abided by.
It appears the appeal will be upheld by the committee and we will lose the point despite all the hard work put in by the players.
We are in the process of getting a case to appeal should the committee uphold the appeal.
So for Waveney Hearts who appear to be content on winning the league by any means either by not playing and getting the points or appealing to the committee, I wish them luck as I would rather win the game on the pitch which we did on Sunday albeit the result.

David

Kessingland Queens Head v Pot Black

(DAISY - RUNG THE CHANGES TO SNEAK A WIN)

Kessingland
15-02-09
Result
2-3

Pot Black continued in winning ways and kept their unbeaten run going in the league against a very good team considering their league position. In the end PB run out 3-2 winners.

The game started with David Shade making his debut at the centre of defence after transferring from Harrods and with Ben ‘the cat’ Strachan showing his versatility by starting up front in place of the unavailable Rory French.
PB were soon into their stride and creating several good chances which went begging either by poor shooting or the opposing keeper making a good save. The game should have been over at this stage if some of those had been taken. David Shade was showing his strength in the air by winning several headers of the ball when the ball was pumped clear by the opposing defence.
But like all games of football when chances go begging, the opposition come more into the game and after 25mins took the lead when a break down the left and a good cross into the box resulted in David Shade scoring an own goal when trying to clear the ball. This clearly gave Kessingland an uplift and deflated PB who then struggled to put 2 passes together.
It was Kessingland’s turn then to miss several chances which could have killed the game, poor finishing and good saves from Kev Sherwoood enabled the score to stay at 1-0 and the match finely balanced.

The second half started as the first with PB having the lion’s share of possession but very few clear cut chances to equalise.
Kessingland Queens Head were battling well and winning most of the 50-50 battles and giving PB as difficult game as any opposing side this year. After another break away they increased their lead after poor marking left the player in front of goal to slide the ball past Kev Sherwood.
It was now backs to the wall and PB were going to have show what it takes to be a winning side by coming from a 2-0 deficit for the first time this year,
Changes were immediately with Jordon Wardrope replacing Max Wall and Darren Laws coming on at the back enabling Max Blowers to move up front. This had an immediate impact on the game with his running off the ball and heading ability giving the home defence plenty of problems. PB pulled a goal back with 20mins to go through Liam who confidently slid the ball past the keeper when put through. This was the spur PB needed and were now looking for an equaliser which was not long coming after good work in midfield by Coop’s who then feed the ball through for Max Blowers to finish with a good shot into the bottom corner giving the keeper no chance.
A point would have been a bonus after being 2-0 down but to their credit PB still went looking for a winner and again good chances went begging to win the game. With the game looking as if the draw would be the result. Liam got away on the right and rifled in a cross which the keeper made his only mistake of the game, fumbling the ball and leaving Max Blowers to tap in the winner to the delight of the players and supporters.
So 3 points from a game which appeared to be lost with 20mins to go is a great result.
But PB will have to play much better in the next 2 weeks with a top of the table clash against unbeaten Waveney Hearts next week at Dip Farm and the big one the following week –
Suffolk Cup Semi-final at Leiston.

MOM
Max Blowers –commanding at the back and changed the game by moving up front, scoring 2 goals.

David
PB MANAGER.

Yet again no game last Sunday, it wasn't because of the weather or the team building seminar at Prague, this time it was the because the opposition Oak Tavern didn't turn up, didn't bother to let us now and to cap it all we had a really strong squad of players on duty. This has been a really frustrating time because of the lack of football but remember lads all the big games are just round the corner! The weather forecast is getting warmer (Geoge Michaelish)for the weekend so there's a good chance that the Queens Head game at Kessingland will be on. This is'nt a game to take lightly as they have been playing well at late and only lost by the odd goal against the Hearts. With the hearts game the week after and the Suffolk County semi-final the week after that everyones playing for form and a starting place! By the way the Poster for the coach to go to Leiston is on the board, so everyone get your names down as it will be a pity if some of the players has to DRIVE!!! We've decided that everyone on the coach will pay a fiver and they'll be no subs on the day!! We MIGHT be stopping for a few bevy's afterwards with the idea of getting back to the Club about 7pm. we have got 24 passes into the ground and the rest will have to pay a £3( paying money to watch you lot play, now that's a first, last year everyone would have payed money to get out!!!!)

For the ones who didn't go to Prague, the trip was right up there with the best we've had and I got to say personally it was the funniest one I've ever been on! Thanks to the organiser Rob Sterry and his understudy Danny for putting together all the ways we had to show ourselves up, the army one was brilliant. No one at Stanstead could forget the Morris Dancers and there stupid dance they had to do every time Commander Bird ordered us to do it. Which was really FREQUENT! Everything else was top secret and is buried deep in PB'S holidays archives(it's like a secure library for you dumbshites). Thanks also to the youngsters who entertained us codgers but still upheld the clubs standards! There was a shed load of piss-slinging and everyone got there fair share of it. If you pressed me one the people who got the most the order would be!!

3rd place :- Danny (the prudish transvestite) Andrews

2nd place :- Jason (lady hater) Russell

1st place :- Daaaaarrren Laws

Pot Black v Lings Honda

25-01-09
Result 7-3

Pot Black eventually got back to playing the league since beginning of Dec due to County Cup games.

The weather was atrocious and it took a pitch inspection before the game could go on.
PB kicked off with the strong wind and rain on their backs and soon the pitch was turning into a bog. To their credit both teams were trying to play football and PB were in the ascendancy from the beginning of the match.
From a corner by Coops, Rory headed into the net to give PB an early lead. PB were completely in control and Rory scored a second with a neat finish into the bottom corner. PB continued to push forward although Lings were playing some neat football in mid-field and were catching PB on the break without causing and undue worries,
After more good work on the right hand side by Kieron and Rory, Coops backheeled the ball and Liam was left to show his skills as he rounded the keeper to put the ball into the empty net and give PB a 3-0 lead. After 30 mins, Rory completed his hat-trick and give a 4-0 lead and the game looked over. To their credit Lings' heads never dropped and with PB looking for a fifth and several players forgetting their defenceless duties, Lings added 2 quick goals and missed other chances that could have made the match closer.
Half-time came with the match finely balanced at 4-2 instead of what should have been game over.
Ben Strachan came on to replace Tom Miles at half-time. Tom needed to come off due to a very nasty 'limp' although many of his unsympathetic team mates thought he just wanted to go back to his hot water bottle!

The second half started with PB playing into the elements and with the rain and wind getting stronger the next goal was crucial and thankfully for PB it was their again with Liam’s speed causing havoc, he went through on goal and was brought down to gain a penalty. He got up to take it himself, only to hit a poor shot which the keeper saved but rebounded to Liam to hit into the net. This gave the impetus to PB and they continued to push forward and had several chances to kill the game off. With Ben changing position with Coop’s to play a holding role in mid-field to give a more holding role, Lings chances of catching PB on the break were of a rarity.
After more good work from Liam and Coop’s converted to kill the game off and give PB a 6-2 lead. With the wind and rain still hammering down, several players were longing for the final whistle. With 15 mins to go, Rory hit a low shot into the corner to give PB a lead of 7-2 and his fourth of the match.
There was still time for Lings to get a corner and with all the players in the box including their keeper, it was him who planted a header into the corner of the net.
Overall a satisfactory result in difficult conditions but PB will have to play better with all of their title challengers to play.

MOM
Dale Andrews, several goal stopping tackles in the first half and covering every inch of the pitch in the second half

Next Week, No game, team bonding session in Prague.

P.S a special mention must go to the vast number of supporters who battled the conditions to support their side. Chris 'Barman' possibly chose the worst match to watch his first Sunday game of the season and would like us to buy some gloves, balaclava's and thermal underwear out of the subs for the next match!!!

Suffolk Senior Cup

Pot Black Club FC reach new heights.

After waiting 2 weeks to play Sportsguard Suffolk Sunday in a Senior Cup Quarter Final match against Brantham Athletic, the outcome was finally decided last Sunday.

Pot Black progressed to the semi-finals as Brantham cancelled the match late on Saturday evening (10.30.pm) due to lack of players availability. Although not the ideal way to progress, we are delighted to be playing in the semi-final of the most prestigious Sunday Cup competition in Suffolk. All players and officials of the club should be proud of such an achievement.

Also, with Pot Black unbeaten so far in the league and lying second with games in hand on our rivals and now a county semi-final to play, the season has gone way beyond expectations so far.

With the bad weather experienced before xmas and after, we are well behind schedule on our league games with only 6 out of 16 completed and are still involved in Cup games locally, also. This will mean a very busy time ahead to get all the games finished before the end of the season.. This will definitely test the strength of the squad but will give all the players an opportunity to shine and complete for a place in the team to play in the semi-final.

The draw has already been done and we will be playing Whitton Maypole 88 from the Ipswich League on March 1st..The venue which will be decided in the next couple of weeks by the Suffolk Cups committee and will be somewhere between Ipswich and Lowestoft but I have been told it will be a 2:15pm kick-off. Mind you, this does not give the players an excuse to get pissed up on the Saturday night before. SO BE WARNED!!!!!

As this is going to be a special day for the club, all supporters will be greatly appreciated.

Anyone wanting to go Wally is putting a sheet up at the Club !!!!

David
PB MANAGER.

Next League Game
25Th Jan, Lings Honda Normanston Park.




POT BLACK FOOTBALL TEAMS FLYING HIGH

First of all is........ How good does it feel that for the first time in umpteen years there's a great feeling coming from both of our football teams!! It's not before time...

All the years we've struggled for players, some have been the wrong types of players donning the Pot Black Shirts and whatever the other reasons, it made it hard for the poor sods called Management and committee who give their time and energy for the PB cause! So hats off for all of you its the combined effort of everyone who has helped to make us one of the best run clubs in the area! The web sites (Sat particularly) are the envy of everyone (You can tell by the hits) and the social atmosphere around the club is fantastic! We're all going to Prague on Friday 30Th. Jan for further team building and fitness training to prepare us for the final run in of the season.

So, whatever happens, even if the wheels fall off completely, it would still have been a great season. As it is, the Sat side have got some huge games coming up and are lying an unbelievable 3RD place, while the Sun mob are unbeaten and has the biggest game in Pot Blacks history on March 1st. We have won Suffolk Sunday cups before but these were all at a Junior level. To get to one game away from being one of the two best sides in Suffolk is a testimonial to everyone in the Club!!!! So I repeat, WELL DONE EVERYONE and see if we can keep it going for as long as humanly possible!!!!!

POT BLACK ARMY... POT BLACK ARMY.... POT BLACK ARMY....

YOUR CHAIRMAN WALLY

I'll be pricing up for a team/supporters coach for March 1ST so check the notice boards and get your names down!