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reserves finish it off in style

JETS RESERVES 3 HARPENDEN TOWN RESERVES 0
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division One
14th April 2009

With Jets needing a point to secure the Molten Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division One title, they had the chance to do it in front of their own supporters tonight against Harpenden Town Reserves.

Harpenden did not come just to make up the numbers and a strong Harpenden team put up a spirited performance to push Jets all the way. At Half Time it was still scoreless, and there was the risk of nerves kicking in. Finally, however, a fine solo effort from Gary Page, making his 499th club appearance, gave Jets the lead, and the win and the title was secured with two late goals from Man of the Match Anthony Shepherd. Full Match Report to follow.

Reserve Team Manager Bob Wyatt was delighted with the result, and with the attitude and spirit the Reserves squad have shown throughout the season. “At the start of the season we laid out some things that we wanted to do. Above all, I wanted an honest and open attitude from the players, and they have given that all season. We knew we needed to work as a squad. We wanted to give our younger players the opportunity to develop in the Reserves, but we also needed to call upon some of the strong, older players to provide the necessary experience and to bond the team together. Everyone also had to accept that we would rotate players for different games, and, I have to say, the attitude has been first class and the spirit amongst the players has been great”.

“Also, when we have needed it, we have had some great backing from some of the fringe players who have stepped in and done a good job for us. I have also got to give a big thanks to the support we have had from John Elliott and from First Team Manager Bennie Higham, who has helped us along through the season by leaving our squad in good shape as much as he was able to, despite injury problems for his own team”.

Jets General Manager John Elliott said “I’m really pleased for the Reserves, and for Bob and John. One of Bob’s aims was to lower the age of the side and rely on using some of the club’s experienced and loyal players to form the team with a promising group of teenage players. It is a brilliant achievement to take the league title at the first attempt. At the same time, several of the squad have moved up to the first team to cover for injuries when needed, and that is experience that is going to help the club in the future”.

jets squeeze past tring for vital win

Jets Reserves 2 Tring Athletic Reserves 1
4th April 2009

The race for the finishing line continues as the Jets play hosts to Tring Athletic on a blustery windy afternoon.

It was plain from the start that this was to be a telling, hard game, as Tring made the running immediately and gave the Jets defence a hard task to contain them, but contain them they did and with plenty of pace up front, it was the Jets name first on the score sheet, as in the 22nd minute Gary Page was to make a fine run into the Tring area and unselfishly made a cross to the right which was collected by Lee Armitt who worked his way past the Tring defence, and with what appeared to be an impossible angle fired the ball behind the keeper, into the net and gave the Jets the open score of 1-0.

The Tring response was fast as they pushed forward in numbers and it was in the 30th minute that they were to bring the score level. They were awarded a free kick on the left and just inside the Jets half. The ball was well struck and was seen to be assisted by the high blustery wind, which lifted it over the keepers head and brought the score level at 1-1.

With the score level both sides were striving for the lead, which made for some attacking football by them both, but no score was added to the break.

The second half started with the Jets now the more likely to score and it was in the 47th minute that a Jets run saw the ball enter the Tring six-yard box, and as total confusion descended a very obliging Tring player was to assist the ball into his own net, but the Jets gratefully accepted to bring the score in their favour to 2-1.

The remainder of the half found end to end football and only some fine keeping from both keepers was to see the score remain until the final whistle.

Substitutes used: Gary Dancy and Adam Lowton.

Man of the match: James Deamer in the Jets goal for a fine performance throughout, keeping the Jets on course.

jets scramble late winner

Jets Reserves 4 Harpenden Town Reserves 3
24th March 2009

With two disastrous and potentially humiliating defeats at the hands of Leverstock, second in the division and London Colney, the Jets returned to winning ways, but only by the seat of their pants and courtesy of an own goal by Harpenden rooted at the foot of the table.

This home game for the Jets started with them in fine form and looking more like the side that had, until lately taken the division by storm. They took command and dominated the play with run after run and attempt after attempt being met with little or no resistance by the Harpenden defence, but once again the finishing touch eluded the Jets strike force. It was in the 22nd minute that the first goal was to appear when Steve Noonan made a run on the right wing and in a position to send an inch perfect cross into the Harpenden box to be met by the head of Gary Page who took his chance and see the ball pass the flat footed keeper 1-0.

Little time was to pass when in the 25th minute the Jets were awarded a corner, which was to enter a crowded Harpenden box, and the man waiting this time to slot the ball past the keeper was Anthony Shepherd, the Jets looked back on form at 2-0.

The edge was to be taken away from the Jets as Harpenden now started a more aggressive style of play and in the 38th minute a ball entered the Jets box and what can only be described as confusion saw the score change now to 2-1. The Jets were now under pressure and held on to the narrow lead until the break.

The second half saw the Harpenden enter their best period as they displayed a game that belied their position in the table. Their determination was to pay in the 59th minute when they collected a loose ball in the centre circle and send a player on a run which cut through the centre of the Jets squad, unhindered he entered the Jets area and was able to have all the time to send a powerful shot into the Jets goal and level the score at 2-2.

The Jets response was immediate as in the 61st minute it was Gary Page who was to turn provider as he speared his way on the right and send a cross to the feet of Michael Bishop who was to gain his first goal for the side, and return the lead to the Jets at 3-2. The Harpenden side were no to be beaten as they once again pushed forward with alarming regularity which brought them level once more in the 76th minute 3-3.

The Jets side now looked deflated as a draw appear immanent, but a gift was presented to them when they were awarded a corner in the 80th minute, which entered a crowded Harpenden box and in the panic and confusion that followed an unfortunate Harpenden player was to fumble the ball across his own line, and victory was grasped with both hands by the Jets at 4-3.

The final whistle sounded and brought much relief to a Jets side who played first class football in the first half, but struggled to contain a Harpenden side full of fight and determination.

Substitutes used: Paul Turner and Ben Chandler.

Man of the match: Michael Bishop who never stopped running and showed great flare.

reserves shine brightly

Broxbourne Reserves 1 Jets Reserves 3
10th March 2009

On the same night that the first team played Chalfont, the Reserves had an important away fixture at Broxbourne and had to travel without some of their regulars because of first team injury cover needs, and needed to add players in from the 3rd team..

Jets found themselves a goal down in the 1st minute to a very strong Broxbourne line-up, but a goal from Dave Maynard levelled things up a minute later.

Jets then lost 'keeper Steve Duce to a straight red in the 8th minute for a foul outside the area, and young Tyler Connor went into goal. Despite the setback, Jets went in at half-time 2-1 up thanks to a 2nd goal from Dave Maynard.

Jets then added a 3rd from Lewis Putnam in the second half to secure a 3-1 and three valuable points. All credit to the Reserves and, in particular, to Man of the Match Michael Bishop, called up from the 3rd team for his reserve team debut. Full match report to follow.

busy week for the reserves ends well

Cockfosters Reserves 1 Jets Reserves 3
28th February 2009

Putting behind them the disastrous exit from the Floodlight Cup against what was thought to be a mainly first team Stotfold side the Jets turned their attention onto league matters with a home fixture against London Colney seeking a revenge for the first encounter result.

The first half was to see both sides well matched, but once again it was the action inside the London Colney area that was to see the Jets allow chances to go begging. It was due to some fine defending on both sides that the break was reached with no score on the sheet 0-0.

The second half saw London Colney enter their brightest period as they pushed into the Jets area from the start and were soon to see them open the scoring when in the 53 minute a long powerful shot from the edge of the Jets area was to see the ball enter the net and set the score-line at 0-1.

The Jets continued to defend well, but so did their failed chances continue and it was London Colney who appeared to be most likely to add to the score putting the Jets defence under pressure. The time passed without any further football action, but an unfortunate injury to a London Colney necessitated the services of an ambulance, as a broken leg was suspected. With time now entering the final five minutes, a last throw of the dice from the Jets in the 87th minute saw the Jets being awarded a corner which was well directed into the goal area where Gary Page was able to fire a shot into the London Colney net and deny them from their revenge, although very close.

Still on the league trail the Jets made the journey across the M25 to Cockfosters for the final leg of the three-fixture programme with honours even for the two previous meetings.

From the start of this fixture it was clear that the Jets were going to dominate as they produced some first class football, but one thing was to develop again, chances passed with more regularity than the road traffic just over the fence. It was just a matter of time before one of these chances was to count and in the 35th minute a run on the left by Lewis Putman, cutting in to the area and sending a low shot into the Cockfosters net and open the Jets account at 0-1.

The Jets continued to command the field through to the break with Cockfosters forages into the Jets area being halted or joining the near miss brigade.

The Jets squad in the second half were again on fine form as they continued to place the Cockfosters defence under pressure. Once more, as with the Jets previous fixture, the half was marred by two injuries to a Cockfosters player, and again the ambulance service was called upon. The Jets perseverance was to pay as once more it was Lewis Putman who was to find his brace in the 64th minute and advance the Jets score to 0-2.

From the start the Jets pushed forward and in just two minutes, the 66th it was the turn of David Maynard to break free and find the keeper advancing off his line, but he was not able to stop the Jets increasing their lead to 0-3. It was while trying to get to the ball that the keeper fell awkwardly and sustained an injury his shoulder. This was a blow for Cockfosters as they were to find a stand in keeper to finish the game, who produced some crucial saves to stop the Jets adding to their score-line.

Once again the Jets appeared to go into cruise control and Cockfosters were to obtain a consolation goal in the 85th minute with a well targeted cross which was directed into the Jets net and change the score – line to 1-3

Substitutes used were Ian Holdom, Neil Whiting and Liam Janusz while the man of the match was awarded to Lewis Putman for his determination throughout the game.

With Leverstock Green Reserves making a draw, Jets maintain their lead at the top of the Spartan Reserves Division 1 table

busy week for the reserves ends well

Cockfosters Reserves 1 Jets Reserves 3
28th February 2009

Still on the league trail the Jets made the journey across the M25 to Cockfosters for the final leg of the three-fixture programme with honours even for the two previous meetings.

The Jets continued to command the field through to the break with Cockfosters forages into the Jets area being halted or joining the near miss brigade.

Substitutes used were Ian Holdom, Neil Whiting and Liam Janusz while the man of the match was awarded to Lewis Putman for his determination throughout the game.

With Leverstock Green Reserves making a draw, Jets maintain their lead at the top of the Spartan Reserves Division 1 table.

frustrating trip for jets

Holmer Green reserves 1 Jets reserves 0
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division 1
31st January 2009

Away with a visit to Holmer Green on a freezing afternoon and very heavy pitch conditions that did not help the Jets cause to keep up their lead at the head of the division.

The Jets started well and were soon to launch some fine attacking runs into the Holmer Green area, but as in recent fixtures were to be found wanting when it came to the final finish, with shots going wide or over the Holmer Green goal. Time and time again the Jets attack were to see them ending in goalmouth scrambles with the ball failing to cross the line. Some fine saves by Simon Mines in the Holmer Green goal kept the Jets at bay and it certainly was a case of “DANGER, MINES IN THIS AREA”.

Both sides struggled on to the break with little to show, even though the Jets appeared the most likely to score.

The second half was a complete reversal in the sides, as Holmer Green entered their best period and it was soon to be seen that they were intent on showing this top of the division side that they were there to be beaten. The Jets were now finding it hard to contain Holmer Green and there were visible signs that players in the Jets side were not firing on all cylinders. It was in the 62nd minute that Holmer Green were to get their reward when an attacking run entered the Jets area giving time and space for the ball to be sent into the Jets net 1-0.

Frustration set in and the referee was soon to prove that he had brought his cards as he produced the yellow variety on more than one occasion. The game dwindled into one of little consequence as neither side looked capable of adding to the score-line, and so the 1-0 remained as a testament to a very poor day for the Jets.

Substitutes used were Lewis Putman and Arron Dunne, while man of the match was awarded to Liam Janusz purely for his work rate and enthusiasm.

jets 2nd half surge

Jets reserves 3 Colney Heath reserves 1
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division 1
17th January 2009

A return to business after the Christmas and New Year break playing hosts to Colney Heath for the second of the season’s triangle of games.

The first period of this fixture appeared to find the Jets still suffering from the festive blues as they struggled to come to terms with a greatly improved Colney Heath squad who were clearly seeking revenge for the 1-5 defeat at their first meeting. It was they who pushed forward and looked the most likely to score, but as the half progressed, the Jets settled in to some positive play, but some fine goal keeping kept the Jets at bay. The first to break the deadlock was Gary Page who, in the 28th minute made a determined run on the right, taking on several players and working his way to the right edge of the area. His shot came from the narrowest of angles, across the face of the goal before entering the net close to the far post, 1-0

The Colney Heath answer was swift, when in the 31st minute they quickly broke free on the left and a cross, which looked to be travelling in slow motion trundled across the Jets goal area, just inviting someone to push it into the net, which was obligingly done to level the score at 1-1.

The time remaining in the first half was Colney Heat’s best period, when they worked hard to produce a lead before the break, but it was not too be as the Jets managed to hold out to the whistle.

The second half found a Jets side, which had no resemblance to the first half squad, as they dominated from the start and it was Colney Heath who found things hard containing a Jets side playing some fine football for the first time in the afternoon. It took just five minutes for them to double their score, when in the 51st minute no other than Gary Page was to find his brace when the ball fell to him outside the Colney Heath area and before anyone could think of a tackle a screamer of a shot was sent in, through all players of both sides and into the back of the net 2-1

An earlier injury to the Colney Heath keeper was to re appear and a change was made, but this was not to be help, as he matched the first choice and more. The Jets continued to stay on top as they found space in the centre to push forward and it was just a matter of time before the net could be found again, which happened in the 66th minute when they were awarded a free kick on the edge of the Colney Heath area, which was to be collected by Anthony Shepherd who made no mistake, and drove a hard shot into the net 3-1.

The play developed into end-to-end football, but no further score was added and the Jets made it a good day at the office.

Substitutes made in the second half were Ian Holdom, David Maynard and Jamie Prouton, which ensured that pace was maintained throughout.

Man of the match was awarded to Anthony Shepherd for his work rate throughout the game.

cockfosters close the gap

Cockfosters reserves 2 Jets reserves 1
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division 1
20th December 2008

The last fixture of 2008 and an opportunity to go into the Christmas period with a healthy eleven point buffer as the Jets travelled to Cockfosters for this top of the table clash.

With a depleted squad the Jets made heavy weather of the game to match the pitch as they struggled to contain a Cockfosters squad, which comprised of five emergency signings. It appeared that it was they who looked most likely to open the scoring as they continued to make inroads into the Jets area time and time again, but it was a run on the right by the Jets that was to make their mark in the 18th minute as Chris Killer worked his way near the Cockfosters left corner flag and send in a thunder bolt of a shot, through the narrow angle and into the top of the net to send the Jets into the lead 0-1.

Throughout the remainder of the half it was still Cockfosters who appeared in command, but they could not capitalise on their efforts and level the score and some fine saves by Steve Duce in the Jets goal kept the lead through to the break.

The second half hopes of additional goals or holding on to the slender lead the Jets had little to offer, and those hopes were dashed when in the 55th minute a Cockfosters attack was to see them crash the ball into the Jets net in what was a clear off side position, but an error by the Jets stand in linesman, failing to flag the incident gave Cockfosters the dubious leveller 1-1.

From then on it was all Cockfosters as they pressed for the winner, which came in the 68th minute 2-1. Both sides became frustrated with tempers flaring, which gave the referee the opportunity to prove that he had brought his cards and they were not the type to put on your mantelshelf this Christmas. The game dragged on and the final whistle came with some relief as the Jets now look forward to the break still six points clear and two games in hand of Cockfosters with the return of some players in the New Year.

Substitutes used in the second half were Jeremiah Anson and Jamie Prouton , both doing well. The man of the match was split between Anthony Shepherd and Neil Whiting for their work rate all through this not too pretty fixture.

reserves bounce back after cup exits

Jets reserves 4 Hoddesdon Town reserves 2
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division 1
29th November 2008

Home at last, after two disastrous cup fixtures it was back to the league campaign with visiting Hoddesdon rooted at the base of the table.

The Jets were soon to make their mark on this bitter cold afternoon, when in the 3rd minute they were awarded a corner on the left which was cleared for second corner, which was cleared for yet a third corner. As the ball entered the Hoddesdon box and into a mass of players, it was Lewis Putman who was able to guide the ball into the net 1-0.

The Jets took control of the game, but the resistance from the Hoddesdon squad belied their league position as the Jets were made to work very hard for their control. It was in the 26th minute that the score was to change when the Jets were awarded nothing less but another corner. This was taken short with a pass to Lewis Putman who had time to send a curling ball over the heads of a full Hoddesdon box and into the net for his brace and double the Jets lead to 2-0.

Nothing changed as the Jets continued to push forward with Hoddesdon play contained in the middle third. In the 30th minute an attack from the Jets was to see a welcome goal from Neil Whiting as he found the net from just outside the box, give the keeper no chance to save and send the Jets into the changing room with a healthy 3-0 lead.

The second half was to see a much changed Hoddesdon squad, as from the start it was they who turned up the heat, as they appeared to put the brakes on the Jets run and it was in the 48th minute that this was to show when it was they who were to prosper from a short corner kick. A low grub hunting shot was to find it’s way through a crowded Jets box and enter the Jets net to give Hoddesdon hope and change the score to 3-1.

The Jets response was swift when in the 53rd minute a run on the left was to be crossed to Chris Killer who found the Hoddesdon keeper stranded to increase the Jets score to 4-1.

The Hoddesdon squad were now fighting hard for an advancement on the score-line and their defiant play was to pay off, when in the 75th minute they were awarded a penalty which was converted by the number ten with ease. This was to change the score to 4-2. The last fifteen minutes was a testing time for the Jets defence as they were put under consistent pressure from a determind Hoddesdon strike force, but once again the Jets resilience and determination was evident.

The second half was to see the two Jets substitutes Liam Janusz and Owen Deamer sent into the fray, both soon settling into the squad. Man of the match – Tyler Connor for his work rate throughout the game.

jets crash out of the cup - again

Cuffley 5 Jets reserves 1
Herts Intermediate Cup - Round 2
22nd November 2008

Another away fixture, another early kick off, another cup and another disaster on the pitch. Away to Cuffley first team in the second round of the Herts Intermediate Cup

The day was doomed from the start, without excuses. Most of the squad were absent for one reason or another and the early kick off always sends out the signal of a club without adequate provisions, and this was no different, with a changing room like a broom cupboard. No dugouts, just three chairs on pitch side. The referee not turning up until fifteen minutes before kick off, so much for the respect programme.

After last Saturday’s nightmare at the hands of Crawley Green, nothing could get worse “WRONG”. Last week the Jets were short of strikers and this game saw two first class strikers up front, but a defence that appeared to melt away whenever they were put to the test.

From the start the Jets struggled and the strike force were not able to make any in roads into the Cuffley area. It was soon to see, when in the 26th minute the number ten found room to slot in the first of the afternoon and to set alarm bells ringing in the Jets camp 1-0

Just five minutes later the score was to double, when in the 31st minute a break on the right by Cuffley found a low ground hugging shot enter the Jets net 2-0. In the 44th minute the Jets were awarded a free kick on the edge of the Cuffley area, the shot was dealt with by the wall, who sent the ball out over the heads of the Jets defence and a one to one situation was set up with Chris Walker in the Jets goal, giving him little chance as the score progressed to 3-0.

Could the half time talk change the Jets luck and attitude? NO.

Hopes were raised when in the 58th minute an incident was to see what was thought to be an extraordinary decision by the referee. Gary Page was to see his shot heading for the top right corner of the Cuffley net, when a player standing on the line made a dive that any keeper would be proud of and pushed the ball away. So, a red card and a penalty!!! No not one bit. The card was yellow and the goal allowed, well at least the Jets had scored one 3-1, but Cuffley still had their eleven men on the pitch.

The Jets continued to struggle on and further goals by Cuffley in the 72nd minute 4-1 and in the 80th minute 5-1 was to see the Jets once again in seven days experience the bitter taste of defeat.

The introduction of the Jets two substitutes in the second half Owen Deamer and newcomer Jeremiah Anson on his debut appearance, could not change the outlook of this bad day at the office which saw the office destroyed by fire from the Cuffley squad.

lifeless reserves crash out of trophy

Crawley Green reserves 1 Jets reserves 0
Reserves Challenge trophy - Round 2
15th November 2008

Second round of the Reserve Challenge Trophy, away to Crawley Green, a team languishing in the lower regions of the Reserve Division two East.

This was a fixture that must go down as the worst display by the Jets during this campaign. A third rate performance against a team of no repute was to see them exit this trophy with a whimper.

The first half was to see most of the play by both sides in the centre third and with any trespass into the Crawley Green half and any shot of note, was to see the Crawley Green keeper ensure that his save looked good and spectacular.

The least said about the man in the middle the better as time and time again play was stopped for little chats, (very cosy). The half dragged on and at last the whistle sounded to give this game!!! a respite.

The second half brought a little sense of urgency from the Jets, but still it would appear that the game was advancing to an extra time situation, but NO in the 74th minute someone who must not be mentioned, but he was wearing black decided that things would change.

A break in the centre by Crawley Green advanced towards the Jets area and was met by a defender. The referee was still in the Crawley Green half and in line with the attacking player, who decided to pull off the Jets defender by us of his shirt. The upward move to get free caused the ball to strike the defenders hand. The unsighted referee gave a penalty although a foul was committed first by the attacking player, but without consultation with the linesman the penalty was taken and converted.

With the score at 1-0 the half plodded on and the Jets bench could not have been more pleased with the sound of the whistle to bring this farce of a game to an end.

With not one single striker on the field the Jets struggled throughout and thankful that poor finishing by their opponents was to keep the score down.

The Jets one and only substitute was used in the second half, which gave Rupert Brown his debut for the Jets reserves. The man of the match was to be Chris Killer for his work rate throughout.

jets late penalty decides top of table encounter

Jets reserves 2 Cockfosters reserves 1
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division 1
8th November 2008

A home top of the table clash with second placed Cockfosters with four points and two games in hand.

The afternoon started with a minute’s silence in recognition of remembrance weekend

The first half was to see a rather dismal performance by the Jets squad as Cockfosters took the game to them in every department and but for some inspirational goal keeping from Chris Walker in the Jets goal the score would have been out of reach by the break. Time after time Cockfosters entered the Jets half and it remained a small miracle that they did not produce the goals. The break was reached with great relief for the Jets at 0-0.

The second half got underway with heavy rain once again making conditions difficult and Cockfosters made a good start when only in the 47th minute they progressed on the left and a cross entered the Jets six yard box followed by a goal mouth scuffle and Cockfosters smuggling the ball over the line to give them a 0-1 lead.

The Jets came alive, and their response was almost immediate as is the 50th minute Adam Lowton was to make one of his now customary runs on the right, send a inch perfect cross in the path of an advancing Ian Holdom who was to send the ball past the keeper and open the Jets account and level the score at 1-1.

It was now the Jets who commanded, as the equaliser had appeared to take the steam out of the Cockfosters squad. Despite more fine crosses from Adam Lowton the Jets finishing eluded them and time was running out, but in the 87th minute there reward was to come in the form of a penalty which was converted by Ian Holdom to give him his brace and the Jets three points to extend their lead at the head of the table.

The fine display given by both Chris Walker and Ian Holdom gave them a joint man of the match.

another good win for the reserves

Tring Athletic reserves 2 Jets reserves 6
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division 1
1st November 2008

Adam Lowton: No goal line River Dance this week

The Reserves achieved one of their best results of the season, and keep themselves top of the Reserves league table with an emphatic 6-2 win away at Tring Athletic Reserves.

Having gone a goal down, Jets quickly bounced back with goals from Lee Armitt, Ian Holdom and Adam Lowton.

Tring then pulled it back to 3-2 from what Jets felt was a dubious penalty award, but Lee Armitt restored the 2-goal lead just before Half Time.

Armitt completed his hat-trick in the 2nd half and it was his attempt that led to the Tring own goal that completed the scoring. 6-2 to Jets.

solid jets performance against police

Met Police Bushey 0 Jets reserves 2
herts FA - Intermediate Cup
25th October 2008

Hello, hello, hello. The Jets made the short journey to The Met Police at Bushey for the first round of the Herts Intermediate Cup on a wind swept day, which promised to spoil this fixture.

From the start it was plain to see that it was not going to be a pretty game as both sides struggled to control the ball, but The Mets were obtaining most of the play as they pushed forward and increased the pressure on the Jets defence with several chances failing to make an impact. As the half reached the 21st minute the ball was to reach the Jets attack force in the centre and a display of short ball passing between Adam Lowton, Owen Beamer was to end in Lee Armitt’s control, who sent the ball well out of reach of the Met keeper and open the score at 0-1

The remainder of the half was to see chances being wasted by both sides and once again the Jets were cursed with the over zealous linesman making most of his appearance, at times it appeared that his flag was, in some way connected to Lee Armitt as every break was flagged as off side, most but not all were acceptable.

The second half was to see the Jets now take control and in the 52nd minute a run on the right by Lee Armitt was to find time and space to send a cross along the face of the Mets goal and met by an advancing Adam Lowton who was given the chance of a simple touch over the Mets line, but decided to give a display of what appeared to be river dance before falling over with the ball still not over the line, but time was kind to him and he jumped to his feet and prodded the ball over to extend the score to 0-2. When the Mets did make their chances reach the Jets goal a fine display by Chris Walker making his first appearance for many moons kept the score in the Jets favour.

Substitutes were made in the second half in the form of Carl Wigg returning from first team duties, Gary Page on loan from Brent Cross shopping centre and Andrew Lomas on weekend leave (or did he escape?) from university.

express ride for jets; train wreck for colney

London Colney reserves 0 Jets reserves 11
Spartan South MidlandsReseves Division 1
18th October 2008

Reserve goalscorers against London Colney

Away again, but not too far as the Jets made a short trip to face London Colney in a league fixture. This was expected to be a tough game as all opponents near the foot of the table can prove. The closing result was one not anticipated by any of the Jets squad and more so as the London Colney keeper was none other than Herve Soulard ex Jets.

To try and write a fully detailed report on this game would only produce enough chapters to fill a book, so I intend to look on this fixture as a train journey, so lets take a look at the timetable of events.

The Jets express had hardly left the station when in the 3rd minute it was Chris Killer who made a superb run on the right and opened the scoring at 0-1.

In the 31st minute it was again Chris Killer who found his brace and extend the Jets lead to 0-2.

In the 37th minute the London Colney woes were added to when a Jets attack entered the six-yard box and a shot from Owen Deamer took a cruel deflection and entered their own net 0-3

The Jets express was just reaching speed when in the 41st minute the driver of the afternoon Lee Armitt was to produce his first with a low volley into the Colney net and the Jets saw a half time score of 0-4.

The second half was to find the Jets train now unstoppable as it raced on through the Colney defence. In the 50th minute Adam Lowton was to make his mark on the game as a cross from Lee Armitt was collected and driven into the Colney net
0-5.

The next thirteen minutes was to find the driver Lee Armitt in total control and in devastating form as in the 54th minute he found a run on the right end with a strong low shot entering the Colney net 0-6.

62nd minute a repeat run by Lee Armitt with the same result as he reached his hat trick and the score advanced to 0-7

66th minute, again the master at work with little answers by the Colney defence as Lee Armitt his fourth goal of the afternoon enter the net 0-8.

No time to settle for a completely demoralized Colney squad as in the 67th minute Lee Armitt was to produce his amazing tally of five and the Jets express rolled on at 0-9.

The driver had not finished his work with the last goal. In the 74th minute the Jets were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area, which fell to no other than the man himself, Lee Armitt as he completed his work for the day with his sixth and extending the Jets total to 0-10.

The express had still not reached it’s destination because in the 84th minute Adam Lowton was to get his brace of the day with a lone run on the right taking on several players before sending the ball out of reach of the keeper and completing the Jets run away total of 0-11.

This train not only had a driver in the form of Lee Armitt, but a great crew in the form of the whole team including the two substitutes and a first class performance by the guard Steve Duce in goal who made some great saves to keep the train rolling.

right place, right time for jets

Hoddesdon Town reserves 1 Jets reserves 4
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Floodlit Cup - Round 1
14th October 2008

Yet another trip to Hoddesdon, the Jets second in two weeks, this time for a Floodlight Cup fixture against what was expected to be a reserve side.

Alarm bells sounded for the Jets, as from the start it was Hoddesdon who took the game in hand with some fiery play. The Jets defence although under pressure so early weathered the storm and it was they who were to put the brakes on the Hoddesdon band wagon, when in the 16th minute Lee Armitt took on players on the right and working his way to the goal line drew the keeper from his line leaving a tight angle which he was able to drive the ball between keeper and post and the Jets account was open at 0-1.

It was just three minutes when in the 19th it was Lee Armitt again who was to provide a arrow like pass to Adam Lowton, who broke free in the centre and inside the Hoddesdon area slotted home his first of the evening and extend the Jets lead to 0-2.

In the 26th minute Jets hearts were to race, when the Jets keeper appeared to handle outside his area, but after several minutes of deliverance by the referee, a yellow card was produced and a free kick awarded, which was sent well over the Jets bar. This was to be the first of many Hoddesdon free kicks from that distance, all of which were either over or wide of their target.

Play became a more settled affair with both teams playing some determined football, but it was the Jets who were to make their work rate count, when in the 44th minute they were awarded a corner which was to me met by the head of Neil Whiting who directed the ball back into the goal area and to the feet of Adam Lowton who grabbed his brace with a touch into the net and giving the Jets the score at the break of 0-3.

The second half saw a defiant Hoddesdon squad, who once again, as with the first ten minutes of the game were to put the Jets defence under pressure. They were to provide their brightest period of the game which was to gain them their consolation goal in the 78th minute when a good cross into the Jets area was to be converted into a goal with a fine strike, the score now standing at 1-3.

Substitutes were made, but this time without the Jelly Babies, so no goals by them on this occasion, but there was another to be added. In the 83rd minute some good build up play by Adam Lowton was to provide a hard working Lee Armitt with his brace as he drove home a powerful shot and finish off yet another fine display by the Jets and a score of 1-4

After his surprise appearance as a substitute for the Reserves earlier this season, Paul Lomas came on again for the last 10 minutes and played his part seeing out the result. Jets GM John Elliott was impressed: "Paul did well, at least he didn't go down with cramp like Stevie Brown did!".

A good team performance, and special mention to Adam Lowton for his outstanding work rate during the game.

Man of the Match goes to Dave Fuller (above) who made sure Jets were in the right place at the right time.

the shrimp becomes a salmon

Jets reserves 5 Broxbourne reserves 0
Spartan South MidlandsReseves Division 1
1th October 2008

Owen "3-0 thanks!" Deamer

A top of the league clash as the Jets took on Broxbourne Borough for the first time, in what was to decide who would take pole position over the weekend.

The Jets set out their table from the start and immediately took control forcing the Broxbourne defence onto the back foot with some fine attacking football. There was little time to wait, as in the 7th minute Lee Armitt was on the hunt and a fine volley was only to be palmed out by the keeper, to be met by an advancing Adam Lowton who returned the ball with interest into the Broxbourne net and open the scoring in favour of the Jets at 1-0.

It was not until the 30th minute that Broxbourne were to up their tempo when an attack led by their number seven was to find him on a one to one with the Jets keeper Steve Duce. A strong low shot was sent to the keeper’s right, but he was able to dive low and clear the ball away to deny the Broxbourne equalizer entering the net. The following fifteen minutes to the break was to find the Jets defence under some pressure and their opponents enjoying their best period of the first half, but no further goals were to be found as the mid way whistle sounded.

As in the first half, the second was to find the Jets stamping their authority on the game as from the whistle they pushed forward in numbers. In the 53rd minute a high ball was sent into the Broxbourne area, the keeper advanced to collected, but faced with a stampeding Lee Armitt was beaten by the bounce, which gave Lee the opportunity to drive a shot into the unprotected goal and increase the score line to 2-0.

The Jets were now in near total command of the game, when in the 62nd minute they were awarded a corner on the right. The outcome of the well struck ball was that a Jets shrimp (As described in the site news flash) in the form of young Owen Deamer was positioned on the near post and showed great form to send a flicked header into the Broxbourne net and add yet another to the total 3-0.

The Jets were now in full flight and with just two minutes passing it was Adam Lowton who, in the 64th minute was to obtain his brace as he took on several players with skill and strength to give the keeper little chance and the Jets score was extended once more to 4-0.

The 71st minute was to see a bad site for the Jets, when their captain John Danslow saw red twice in a short time, once when the red mist descended on him and red when the referee produced the card, his second booking of the day and found the squad reduced to ten men.

With nineteen minutes left and ten men, the Jets dug in and in the 82nd minute Lee Armitt was replaced by Scott Simmonds who was very reluctant to leave the bench and the store of jelly babies he had spent some time in attacking, but needs must. We still are not sure if it was the strength gained by the sugar level of the jelly babies or if he thought he could get the game over and return to them, but it took him just one minute to make his mark on the game, in the 83rd minute Scott Simmonds was to collect the ball inside the Broxbourne area and send a low powerful shot into the net and round off a good day at the office for the Jets at 5-0

Manager Bob Wyatt was very happy with the result and said "The lads gave there all today, and the team have a great attitude, We could have reacted today many times but didn't. With many changes needed today because of 1st team requirements we were a little worried before kick off, but the lads all did there job"

Wyatt added the quote of the day. Just before our third goal a Broxbourne player pulled a defender off from marking half pint striker Owen Deamer saying " What the **** is that shrimp going to do from a corner, mark someone else”. The cross came over and “shrimp” Deamer rose like a salmon and headed home. He informed the defender " That's what I’m going to do - 3-0 thanks !!!!!

reserves progress in the cup

Tottenhoe reserves 0 Jets reserves 3
Reserves Cup
4th October 2008

The Jets started their cup campaign with a far-flung trip to Tottenhoe in the first round of the Reserves Challenge Trophy.

With their opponents from the Reserve Division West, the Jets were considered favourites for a win, but with a gusting high wind blowing across the pitch things were not going to be easy for neither of the squads, and no advantage to be gained.

The Jets started off at a slow pace and struggled make any inroads into the Totternhoe half and when they did chances were thwarted by some fine saves by the keeper and a over zealous referee who found every excuse to stop play over and over again.
As the half progressed doubts were creeping into the minds of the Jets bench and the break was looming, but a devastating last five minutes was to be heaped onto the Tottenhoe side, when in the 40th minute the Jets were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area, which was struck by Neil Whiting with tremendous power. The ball struck the underside of the bar and rebounded into the path of a waiting Lee Armitt who volleyed the ball into the net and put the Jets in the lead at 0-1.

Before the Tottenhoe side had even composed themselves, it was Lee Armitt on the attack again in the 42nd minute, this time making a run on the right and making a superb cross to be collected by Lewis Putman with just the keeper to beat made no mistake as he rounded him and drove the ball into the net for the second time in two minutes. Directly from the kick off it was Steve Duce who was to be tested as the Tottenhoe attack entered the Jets area and a shot deemed goal bound was pushed around the right post by the keeper and the resulting corner being dealt with and giving no further problem to the Jets defence.

The second half found a much improved performance by the Tottenhoe side as they increased the pressure on the Jets defence, but it was only some further fine saves by the Tottenhoe keeper that kept the score static and it was felt that it would change at some time soon. It was in the 70th minute that none other than Lee Armitt was to enter the Tottenhoe area and take on several players, who thought that strength in numbers was the only way to contain him found out how wrong they were as he fought his way through and slotted the ball past the keeper to give the Jets the winning score of 0-3.

Substitutes were made in the second half, which saw a first time appearance of
Jamie Prouton who gave a full account of his presence on the pitch and shows great potential for future appearances.

Photos-below: (Left) Lee Armitt turned in a man of the match performance and got another 2 goals for the Reserves; (centre) Lewis Puttnam added the 3rd goal for Jets; (right) Jamie Prouten made his Reserves debut.

reserves 2nd half fight back

Hoddesdon Town reserves 2 Jets reserves 3
Spartan South Midlands Reserves Division 1
30th September 2008

Jets reserves made a great 2nd half comeback to turn round a 2-0 half time deficit and record a useful 3-2 away win against a strong Hoddesdon Reserves side who outperformed their current low league position.

Gary Page started the comeback, latching onto a superb through ball from Adam Lowton.

Lee Armitt, who came on as a substitute for Gary Page, headed home the equaliser.

Then, with 6 mins left, Adam Lowton was first to a superb ball that skimmed across the Hoddesdon penalty area to get the touch to put the ball into the net. 3-2 to Jets.

Both Leverstock Green and Broxbourne Borough had good away wins as well, so these 3 points were needed to keep Jets top of the table.

Match report to follow.

reserves stay top

Leverstock Green reserves 1 Jets reserves 1
Spartan Reserves Div 1
20th September 2008

Jets Reserves got a hard earned point away at Leverstock Green in this Spartan Reserves Division 1 top of the table game.

Jets took the lead in the first half with a stunning goal from Lee Armitt.

Green came storming back in the 2nd half and Jets found themselves hanging on to the lead. Steve Duce made some good saves to keep Jets in the game. Jets were also forced into making all 3 substitutions, with Armitt, Danslow and Brown coming off. This meant that the 'only to be used in an emergency' substitute Paul Lomas was brought onto the field, much to the disgust of his teenage son Andrew who was already on the pitch. It's not everyday you see your 47 year old dad come and join you in the team.

Green forced an equaliser to make the game 1-1 and it was debatable whether the goal would be given to the Green forward or as an own goal by Andrew Lomas who was the last to touch it as it bounced off him from the woodwork and into the goal.

Jets then held on for what is an excellent point against a strong Leverstock side, which keeps Jets on top of the league.

After the match the main talking point was the father and son appearance together on the pitch. "I was shocked to see him come on the pitch" said Andrew about his dad. "At his age you expect him to be at home in his slippers watching the results come in on the teleprinter".

Paul's reply was fairly succinct. "I don't know what he's worried about. I played a lot better than he did anyway!"

Below: From left - Steve Duce had an excellent game in goal for the Reserves; Paul Lomas made an unexpected appearance as a substitute; Andrew Lomas was more surprised than anyone to see his dad take the field.

reserves stay top

Jets reserves 3 Holmer Green reserves 1
Spartan Reserves Div 1
17th September 2008

Another mid week fixture for the Jets, playing hosts to mid table Holmer Green.

Another bright start from the Jets making it clear that they meant business once again, but it was the Jets who were to be stunned, when in the 10th minute Holmer Green broke on the left and a fine cross into the Jets goal area was edged past the keeper into the net to give Holmer Green the early lead of 0-1.

The Jets responded immediately with attacks on both flanks stretching the Homer Green defence each time. The lead for Homer was short lived when in the 15th minute the Jets were awarded a corner on the left. As the ball entered the goal area the keeper managed to get a fist to it and punch clear, but only as far as the waiting head of John Danslow who kindly returned the ball into the net to bring the Jets level at 1-1.

Once again the Jets refused to take any pressure from the game and pushed forward with short direct football which soon brought dividends when with only a further four minutes gone yet another run on the flank, this time switching to the right it was Steve Brown who crossed the ball into the Holmer Green goal area where Lee Armitt was able to send a strong shot into the net to give Jets a 2-1 lead.

Still the Jets pressed forward at every available opportunity but Holmer Green defended strongly to keep Jets at bay. It was not until the 35th minute that the score was to change, when once again the Jets were awarded a corner, once again on the From the corner Steve Brown produced a superb header that beat the outstretched keeper and went in just under the bar. 3-1 to Jets.

This score was not only to remain to the break, but for the remaining 55 minutes. The second half was played at a game of end-to-end football, but nothing forthcoming to change the score for either squad.

Four goals, two corners, two headers, all scored from inside the goal area and all in the first 35 minutes.

With Leverstock Green 3 points behind in 2nd place in the table, but with a game in hand, this sets up an important early season top of the table clash on Saturday when Jets reserves play away at Leverstock.

The Molten Spartan South Midlands Football League
Reserve Division One 2008-2009 Season-Reserves Division 1
To 18th September 2008	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
Oxhey Jets Reserves	6	5	0	1	18	5	13	15
Leverstock Green Reserves	5	4	0	1	15	10	5	12
Broxbourne Borough Reserves	7	4	0	3	21	17	4	12
Cockfosters Reserves	6	3	1	2	12	9	3	10
St Margaretsbury Reserves	5	3	0	2	11	7	4	9
Colney Heath Reserves	7	3	0	4	12	14	-2	9
Tring Athletic Reserves	7	2	2	3	8	14	-6	8
Holmer Green Reserves	7	2	1	4	12	15	-3	7
London Colney Reserves	6	2	1	3	11	16	-5	7
Harpenden Town Reserves	7	1	2	4	11	22	-11	5
Hoddesdon Town Reserves	5	1	1	3	6	8	-2	4

(below) Steve Brown's header beats the Holmer goalkeeper; Gary Page surrounded by Holmer defenders; Holdom and Wyatt - the puppy and the maestro; Lee Armitt disappointed not to have got a 2nd goal on the night.

ARMITT SCORES HAT TRICK ON first start for reserves

Jets reserves 5 Colney Heath reserves 1
Spartan Reserves
9th September 2008

Jets Reserves fielded a young team and had a comprehensive win over Colney Heath Reserves on Tuesday night, winning 5-1, with a Man of the Match and hat trick performance by Lee Armitt.

Jets took the lead in the 1st minute from Andrew Lomas and by Half time had made it 4-0 with two goals from Lee Armitt (pictured left) and one from Steve Brown.

Lee completed his hat-trick 5 minutes into the 2nd half, and the reserves then played out the rest of the game, but did concede a consolation goal to Colney (which manager Bob Wyatt was fuming about), to be comfortable 5-1 winners.

This makes it 4 wins from 5 league games for the Reserves.

weekend round up

A good weekend for both the Reserves and the "B' team. The Reserves followed up their midweek win over St Margaretsbury with a comprehensive 4-1 win over Tring Athletic. Ian Holdom got on the scoresheet again with 2 goals, and there were also goals from Owen Deamer and Lee Armitt. Chris Killer was the Man of the Match.

The 'B' team made a winning start under new manager Alan Carter with a 1-0 win over Potten End. Bishop got the goal.

The 'A' team opened up their season at home to Hemel Aces, but went down narrowly 2-1. Jamie Prouten got the goal.

(Below) Chris Killer (left), reserves MOM and Ian Holdom (centre) scored two for the Reserves on Saturday. Jamie Prouten (right) got the 'A' team goal against Hemel Aces.

RESERVES Get back to winning ways

Jets reserves 2 St Margaretsbury reserves 0
Spartan Reserves
3rd September 2008

A mid week game with St Margaretsbury as the visitors for the Jets. A tough fixture was envisaged, but this event turned out to be a scrappy affair with both sides failing to score on many visits into the opponent’s area.

The Jets were mainly on top, but did not play to their potential and it was in the 22nd minute that found one attack entering the St Margaretsbury six yard box to find, no other than Ian Holdom waiting to add yet one more goal to his tally and open the Jets account at 1-0. This score line was to hold until the break.

The second half found the none productive play continuing as the chances made were squandered by both sides. Substitutes were introduced into the game by the Jets and for a good spell the Jets were looking the most likely to change the score. The time was running out for any further goals when in the 80th minute the Jets made their final substitution with Owen Deamer, who wasted no time in making his mark when in the 86th minute he saw a well struck shot enter the St Margaretsbury net and close the evening’s score 2-0 to the Jets.

no joy for jets

Jets reserves 1 Leverstock Green reserves 2
20th August 2008

This home game against Leverstock Green was always going to be a tough one, but once over the Jets felt a little aggrieved by some dubious off side decisions given against them.

It was early in the game that a Jets attack found a long ball from the centre lifted over a group of players with a Jets player breaking from that group, but once clear and in a goal scoring position, up went the flag and into the net went the ball, so it was back to the drawing board.

Against the run of play in the 38th minute Leverstock made a run on the left and a long high lob was to find the Jets keeper off his line and unable to cope with the incoming high ball over his head and the score of 0-1 was to stand through to the break despite both sides making chances that were to come to nothing.

The second half was to start with Leverstock seeking to increase their advantage with some attacking football which was to put the Jets on the back foot for a while, but they responded and it was they who soon took the game to Leverstock. Against the run of play once again in the 57th minute a Leverstock got inside the Jets six yard box and a simple touch was to find the ball squeeze into the corner of the Jets net and Leverstock’s lead was extended to 0-2.

The 68th minute saw a red card shown to a Leverstock player when a Jets player was grounded on the left as he broke loose into the edge of the area. With Leverstock now reduced in numbers the Jets made use of this and were able to make increased runs into the Leverstock half. In the 80th minute a cross from the left was collected by Adam Lowton who obtained the Jets consolation goal and changed the score to 1-2.

The Jets now made attack after attack, but it proved to be too little too late as the watch was against them and the final whistle sounded with the Jets feeling a little disappointed that they did not bring a point from this meeting.

from ball boy to goal net

Harpenden Town reserves 0 Jets reserves 3
16th August 2008

Young Owen Deamer, Jets former ball boy, who was more used to collecting the match balls in after the game, scored on his reserve team debut to help Jets reserves to a 3-0 away win at Harpenden Town. Goals from Jets most prolific ever goal scorer IAN HOLDOM and an OG forced by fellow Deamer "puppy" Lewis Putman, completed the scoring on Jets opening league fixture of the season.