Games Review
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This Seasons
Goal Scorers
06- 12 - 2008
League
1st XI
Smith 20
Mason 7
Kendrick 7
Williams 4 Fieldhouse 1
2nd XI
M. Fieldhouse 7
A, Hall 3
J. Evans 2
A. Baker 2
Z. Cole 1
M. Clements 1
Moseley 1
Hockey in the Pink. Games on Saturday 25th of October was played
"in the Pink" for Cancer Research. Please give generously.
Last Seasons
Goal Scorers
2007/08
League
Smith 45
Mason 26
Lewis 8
Williams 7
Kendrick 6
Fieldhouse 4
Cole 2
Clements 2
I. Baker 2
Wheeler 1
P. Baker 1
06 12 2008 Abergaveny 5 Carew 3
Down 2 - 0 within 10 mins and it looked like this was going to be another banana skin in Abergaveny for the Rooks having slipped up on the away game last season. Smith got one back with a diving strike on goal but Aber sneaked another to make it 3 - 1 at the interval.
The Abergavenny young strikers capitalised on mistakes made by Carew whilst the Rooks missed their chances in the opposition circle. This was a day when things simply did not go for Carew. Mason hit the post from a short corner, Wheeler hit the post twice from open play and a short corner, Smith and Mason on several occasions were in on the keeper only to find advantage was not played and the play was brought back, Evans swept the ball past the post on an open goal attempt, Kendrick was frustrated with several runs down the middle and interplay with Williams coming to nothing.
Smith brought Carew back to within a goal with a fine strike just after the interval but again Aber replied to make it 4 -2 and then increased the lead to 5 with another goal hitting the Rooks on the break. Smith got his hattrick with 10 mins to go after sustained pressure on the Aber goalmouth but from the restart was immediately sent off for an infringement which bemused the whole pitch. Shortly afterwards Mason, not for the first time, was hacked from behind and Head was tripped as he set up an attack but this went unpunished. A wholly frustrating day which the Rooks hope to put behind them when they are away to Swansea next week.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), S. Kendrick (C), J. Smith, O, Johnson, M. Clements, T. Pritchard, D. Head, B. Wheeler, J. Mason, E. Williams, J. Evans.
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Carew 2nd XI 1 – 3 Brecon - report by Pattrick Baker.
On a bright and sunny, yet cold and frosty, afternoon Carew 2nd XI played host to a visiting Brecon side which included certain young players of a similar age to that of Carew's youth contingent. At the beginning of the match, Carew felt confident of achieving a score in stark contrast of the 7-0 rout they suffered at the away fixture earlier in the season. And with a team comprising players usually at home in the firsts, returners who missed that away fixture, and a promising group of youngsters who are improving and developing week-in week-out, it appeared as if this may be the case. The first half was played in a firm but fair manner, with plenty of spirited attacks, strong tackling and composed passing from Carew and Brecon alike. Dai Woods made plenty of surging runs throughout this half, Fieldhouse and A. Baker were present in the D on occasion, and opportunities were created but unfortunately at the last gasp of a half played with little fan-fair and few mistakes from either side it was Brecon who took the lead from a well placed short-corner scarcely a minute before the whistle, leaving Carew to trail at half-time.
Following words of feedback, wisdom and encouragement at half-time from acting Capt. Martin Fieldhouse, acting vice-Capt. Ian Baker and veteran Dave Ferguson, Carew 2nd XI approached the second-half with the same vigour and up-for-it attitude as they did the first. Unfortunately, it was in this second-half that weather and experience began to play their respective roles. Playing into the sun, Carew were hampered by impaired vision which led to missed shots and loose passes. It was also at this stage that the experience and nurtured ability of Brecon's youngsters came to the floor. Near the beginning of the second-half following another lost ball in midfield – which unfortunately proved to be Carew's area of downfall – Brecon set upon the counter, putting the ball in the D which resulted in their second goal, following a cheeky shot only narrowly missed by Shane Lewis, a promising young goal-keeper with consistent solid performances in previous weeks which translated to the Brecon return fixture; although Carew may have lost, his was one of the key-note performances with some fantastic saves in both halves.
This goal appeared to galvanise Carew to return to their previous work ethic and after long passages of constant pressure a ball into the D was seized upon by Moseley to make the score 1- 2 and something appearing a come back. Sadly, this was too little too late and another ball given away cheaply in midfield left Carew on the back foot and again gave Brecon a goal; their final of the game, final score-line Carew 1 – Brecon 3. However, although this was a loss Carew kept their promise to develop an improved score-line and performance compared to that of which the end result was 7-0. They did emphatically, and having picked up a win already this season Carew look towards their first fixture after the Christmas break with eyes seeking goals, passion and victory.
Team: S.Lewis (GK), P.Baker, D.Ferguson, I.Baker, D.Woods, Z.Cole, S.Moseley, J.Meredith, M.Fieldhouse (Capt.), A.Baker
28 - 11 - 2008 Carew 1st XI 5 - Whitchurch 0
Carew A 7 - Lampeter Uni 1
Carew went ahead in the 8th minute with a goal converted by Mason from a long ball by Mosely from deep in the Rooks defence which found Smith to put Mason in on goal. Carew continued to press Whitchurch and it was just 4 mins later that Smith converted his first of the game from a run down the wing by Williams. Smith added his second when interplay between Wheeler and Colley saw Colley's well placed cross guided into the goal. Whitchurch played well putting the defence of Moseley, Head, Pritchard and Bowles under pressure from time to time but were unable to break through with Bowles and Moseley putting in particularly good performances and Head doing a marking job on the centre forward Pritchard was able to press forward down the right.
The teams turned around with the Rooks comfortably 3 - 0 up however some complacency crept in and this led to several attacks from Whitchurch who now pressed Carew into making unnecessary errors, however Thomas was never troubled in goal. A wake up call was called for and with Williams in fine form he was able to feed Kendrick who put away his shot with precision and set Carew back into action. Smith almost immeditely put the Rooks into a 5 - 0 lead when he picked up a shot from Colley to tap in at the near post. More chances were presented to the attacking duo of Mason and Smith with Kendrick making some fine runs but unfortunately they were snuffed out by the Whitchurch keeper or the shots went just wide.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), S. Kendrick (C), S. Moseley, M. Bowles, T. Pritchard. D. Head, B. Wheeler, J. Smith, J. Mason, E. Wlliams, T. Colley.
Umpires: J. Wheeler. S. Lunn.
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Carew A 7 - Lampeter Uni 1
Keen to emulate the 1st team victory, Carew 2nds applied pressure on Lampeter Uni from the start. This was rewarded within a few minutes when the ball was pushed through to Fieldhouse, who wrong footed the defender and slotted the ball past the keeper. Minutes later Evans made a fine individual run past the defenders to hammer the ball in from what looked like an impossible angle. Now 2 down Lampeter didn't give up and when Carew lost the ball from one of their attacks, swift Lampeter passing rewarded them with a goal. Despite Carew conceeding the goal the rolling midfield of G. Cole, Evans, Hall, Woods, Meredith and Z. Cole continued their hard work to control and apply pressure, which was soon rewarded with a series of short corners from which Fieldhouse got his second. Good by interplay the Rooks then lead to a scramble in front of the Lampeter goal which was picked up by A. Baker to make it 4-1 at half time.
Lampeter semed to re-organise themselves for the second half with stronger defence and midfield, which made the Carew attack more difficult. The Carew defence of I. Baker, Ferguson and Johnson had to be alert for counter attacks and indeed the Rookes young keeper ShaneLewis had to pull off 2 fine saves after having an otherwise quiet and uneventful game. Carew continued to attack with some fine runs from Woods down the right hand side leading to the Students conceeding a series of further short corners from which Hall got his hat-trick. Being the first season for the Carew 2nd XI many of the players new to the game or returning from not playing for a while were delighted to notch up their first win at 7-1.
Team:
S. Lewis (GK), M. Fieldhouse (C), O. Johnson, D. Ferguson, I. Baker, A. Baker, Z. Cole, G. Cole, J. Meredith, A. Hall, D. Woods, J. Evans.
Umpires: T. Pritchard, B. Wheeler.
22 - 11 - 08 Cardiff Uni 1 - Carew 4
Whitchurch 2 - Carew 2nd XI 0
The students started the game with some really fast moving hockey making the Carew back four of Johnson, Head, Pritchard and Cole work hard and brining Goalkeeper Thomas into action from the start.
The Rooks were simply still on the motorway as they struggled to get their game together. The Students took advantage of the situation and with 15 mins on the clock scored with a tap in having penetrated the Rooks defence. Mason and Smith had few chances to put shots on goal with the Students defending well and holding the ball in midfield making it difficult for the Rooks to get their game together. From one of the few attacking runs Williams was able to make down the right Mason latched on to the ball and swept it into the goal for the teams to turn around 1 - 1 at half time.
A change of formation in defence saw Carew come out for the second half with the Midfield duo of Kendrick and Wheeler starting to press up the pitch releasing Smith and Mason for them to put pressure on the Students goal and Clements able to push forward down the left and get crosses into the circle.
It did not take long for a through ball from Wheeler to Williams to find Smith in position to lob the keeper and Kendrick to pick up on another Williams run and strike the ball home to make it 3 -1. The students continued to play their possession hockey but it rarely came to fruition. Thomas was rarely called into action but cleared any attempts on his goal. Head marked the centre forward out of the game, Pritchard, Cole and Clements were on top of their game on the wide defensive areas and Johnson was making some impressive interceptions and clearance as Sweeper.
As the game entered the final quarter Wheeler picked Williams' run from wide for him to "roof " the pass into the net for a superb finish to an entertaining game.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), S. Kendrick (C), J. Smith, J. Mason, B. Wheeler, E. Williams, O. Johnson, T. Pritchard, M. Clements, G. Cole, D. Head.
Whitchurch 2 - Carew 2nd XI 0
Authors M. Clements, M. Fieldhouse.
Carew 2nd XI travelled up to Cardiff to play Whitchurch and started the game with 8 players as one car was delayed however within 5 mins they were up to full strength. Carew dominated the possession during the first half with Andrew Baker making a particular nuisance of himself alongside M. Fieldhouse in attack. The Rooks attacked strongly from the off and earned a penalty corner within the first couple of minutes but unfortunately could not capitalise on it. Despite repeated attacks and with good runs down the wings from Jon Evans the Whitchurch defence held firm. It was from two of the Carew attacks that Whitchurch recovered the ball and from fast counter-attacks found the back of the Carew goal, making the score 2-0 at half time.
Whitchurch took the game to Carew at the beginning of the second half but with D. Ferguson leaving to go to the rugby Carew were down to ten men. Carew from this point struggled to make any attacking movements although Zac Cole provided a constant threat on the counter. However excellent defensive performances from the Rooks back three with P. Baker making several saves off the line and stand in keeper Ollie Johnson making a series of excellent saves Carew held out until the end of the game rounding off an gritty second half performance keeping the scoreline at a respectable 2-0.
Team:
O. Johnson(GK), M. Feildhouse, I. Baker, P. Baker, A. Baker, J. Evans, Z. Cole, J. Moore, R. Fieldhouse, D. Ferguson, D. Wood.
Carew 1st XI 4 - Cwmbran 3.
Abergavenny 3 - Carew 2nd XI 1.
The Umpires abandoned this game after 66 minutes after continuous abusive comments and aggressive actions towards the officials.
Carew started well with Smith sweeping in a goal after 8 minutes. Smith put Carew two up from a penalty stroke awarded when a Cwmbran defender illegally stopped a certain goal. The game was well contested in all areas of the pitch and Cwmbran came back well and scored two well taken goals within a 10 minute purple patch for the teams to turn around 2 - 2 at half time.
The second half started much like the first with Carew getting on top for a period of time and from a short corner were awarded a 2nd Penalty stroke as a Smith Shot at goal was stopped on the line by a foot. Smith converted the stoke with a fine flick into the top corner which the Cwmbran keeper, who had been outstanding all afternoon, was close to saving. Carew went further ahead when Colley put Mason into position to put away a well placed shot only to see Cwmbran come back with a equally fine goal.
The game had turned into a "Dog fight" from the first penalty stroke and unfortunately deteriorated as the game went on to be abandoned just before the end.
Team: L. Thomas (GK), S. Kendrick ( C), S. Moseley, M. Bowles, T. Colley, E. Williams, J. Smith, J. Mason, D. Head, B. Wheeler, O. Johnson.
Umpires: S. Lunn. J. Wheeler.
Abergavenny 3 - Carew 2nd XI 1.
With only 9 players Carew A travelled to Abergavenny and won the first half 1 - 0 from quick free hit by I Baker Captain Matt Clements made a mazy run through the middle of the park to score his first goal of the season. Unfortunately even with young Shane Lewis having a magnificent game in Goal the young Rooks side could not stem the flow of attacks that came at them during the start of the second half. Abergavenny were soon on level terms when Sanchez, their experienced striker, netted the first followed by a Penalty stroke. As the game came to an end Carew pushed for the equalizer which left them spread too thinly and allowed Abergavenny to sneak a third just before the final whistle.
Carew Team:
M.Clements Capt, S.Lweis GLK, I.Baker, D.Ferguson, C.Doona, J.Meredith, Z.Cole, J.Evans, A.Baker.
Carew 1st XI 4 Pembroke County 1st XI 2
Carew A 3 - Bridgend 4
This local derby has not taken place for three seasons since Carew reformed and worked their way back up the divisions to meet County who have been a first division team for many years.
With Tom Colley suffering from food poisoning, James Mason starting the game with a training ground injury and Carew only having a bare eleven players the Rooks had to adapt their game to suit with Captain Steve Kendrick taking on a more defensive role than he would normally play.
Pembroke County instantly showed their class and pace with Brimcombe opening the scoring for County within the first 7 minutes putting Carew on the backfoot. However the Rooks came back with a well worked move that saw Mason's reverse stick sweep bring the teams level. County's brisk passing and pacey midfield duo of Tough and S. Cole were always going to prove a threat to the Carew midfield duo of Kendrick and the veteran Wheeler but it was the Rooks direct approach that put them in the lead as Colley's shot was well saved by County's Keeper Andy Major only to see Smith pounce on the rebound. Carew went further into the lead as Wheeler picked out Williams' run, coming from wide behind the defence, with a peach of a pass to see Williams deflect his pass into the goal for Carew to turn around at half time 3 - 1 up.
This derby game was very open with high skill levels and much passion and showed why both these local teams are flying high at the top of South Wales Division 1. Both the County defence of Brawn, Brooks, Jewel and Cole and Carew's defensive line up of Johnson, Bowles, Moseley and Head kept many of the attacks from their opposition at bay with Andy Major pulling off some great saves in the County Goal and Leigh Thomas in the Carew goal commanding his area.
It was not until the final quarter that a move down the County right wing was crossed well into the Carew Circle to see Pike put away a neat move and bring County within one goal. After a series of short corners Carew responded with another Smith Goal sweeping Wheeler's pass into the 'D' onto the backboard to seal the game at 4 - 2.
Teams:
Carew- L. Thomas (GK), S. Kendrick (C), S. Moseley, D. Head, M. Bowles, O. Johsnon, B. Wheeler, J. Mason, T. Colley, J. Smith, E. Williams.
Pembroke County - A. Major (GK), B. Brauns, N. Brooks (C), P. Jewell, D. Cole, P. Tough, M. Webb, M. Brimcombe, D. Pike, S. Cristofaro, S. Cole, S. Kirkhouse, S. Bates, Sammy.
Umpires: J. Wheeler (FIH), S. Lunn.
Carew A 3 - Bridgend 4
Both teams held there own during the first quarter with Shane Lewis having very little to do in goal. It was a long ball through to Andrew Baker that saw him round the keeper and slot away Carew's first. Bridgend came back at Carew to equalise with a penalty stroke which brought about a yellow card for P. Baker just before the interval. With one defender down Keeper Lewis was now brought more and more into play with I. Baker, Ferguson and Dooner working hard to keep the score level until half time. Fieldhouse came on for the 2nd half and made an instant impact with a goal within minutes of the restart. Zac Cole and Meredith drove Carew forward down the wings whilst Clements, G.Cole, Hall and Pritchard held the middle together well. The Bridgend pressure however was relentless and from two short corners Bridgend went 2 - 3 up with strikes from their veteran midfielder Steve Macintosh. Zac Cole brought the Rooks back level slotting in a fine shot but it was Bridgend who had the last say with yet another strike from Macintosh late in the game.
Team: S. Lewis (GK), M. Clements (C), I. Baker, D. Ferguson, P. Baker, A. Baker, M. Fieldhouse, C. Dooner, Z. Cole, J. Meredith, G. Cole, T. Pritchard, A. Hall.
Umpires: K. Hunter. M. Fieldhouse.
1 - 10 - 2008 Swansea Bay 3 - Carew 1st XI 5
Whitchurch 3 - Carew 2nd XI 1
Despite Club record goal scored Jamie Smith back from injury with a strapped up hand Carew found themselves a goal down within 5 minutes but equalising with a Smith jink over the keeper within a further 2 mins. Carew then took control of the game with Smith putting in a further 2 goals, the first from a well worked passage of play where Mason opened up the defence to put Smith in and the 2nd from a short corner routine to give the Rooks a 3 - 1 lead at half time.
With Tom Colley back in the side after a couple of years out the midfield was at full strength. Mason played his fluid role with Kendrick holding the centre well. Williams again was flying down the right and Swansea had no answer to his pace.
Two further goals early in the 2nd half sealed the game for the Rooks. Colley's shot at goal was purposefully deflected over the keeper by Smith and a beautifully lifted ball over the keeper gave Smith 5 goals on the day. It could well have been more as Smith hit the cross bar, a penalty stroke was denied as the umpire played advantage, Mason scooped the ball past the post and further attempts by Williams and Kendrick were just off target.
Bowles, Moseley, Head and Johnson were rarely troubled in defence however two short corners late in the 2nd half saw Swansea put two past keeper Leigh Thomas who had come into the game with a back injury.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), S. Kendrick (C), M. Bowles, S. Moseley, D. Head, O. Johnson, B. Wheeler, T. Colley, E. Williams, J. Mason, J. Smith.
Whitchurch 3 - Carew 2nd XI 1
Young Shane Lewis making his debut in goal performed admirably in his new role making some fine saves throughout this hard fought game between the newly formed Carew 2nd XI and high flying League Leaders Whitchurch.
With Andrew Baker having his strike saved on the goal line and despite several other chances from Zac Cole, Grant Cole and Mat Clements the Rooks went a goal down near the end of the 1st half when Whichurch took the only opportunity they had during the half catching Carew on the break.
Shortly after half time supported by Joel Meredith a Clement's run and strike at goal saw Evans put the ball in the net to put Carew level. Carew continued to put pressure on the Whitchurch goal but could not capitalise. The Defence of P. Baker, I. Baker, D. Ferguson and R. Fieldhouse worked well as a defensive unit giving Whitchurch little hope of scoring however again it was two counter attacks from Whitchurch that gave them the two goals near the end of the game to seal the game.
Team:
S. Lewis (GK), M. Clements (C), R. Fieldhouse, D. Ferguson, I. Baker, P. Baker, J. Evans, J. Meredith, G. Cole, A. Baker, Z. Cole.
25th October 2008 Carew 1st XI 1 - Swansea Uni 1
Carew 2nd XI 3 Cardiff & Uwic 6
Carew playing hosts to Swansea Students soon found they were 1 up from a short corner strike by Mason with Williams putting the rebound away. With the midfield of Wheeler, Mason, Williams and Woods controlling the play for much of the half the Rooks should have converted several of their chances but with an inform keeper the Students kept Carew at bay. Turning around 1 - 0 up at halftime the Students were fast out of the blocks and put Carew under pressure for the first part of the half bringing out some fine saves from the Rooks keeper Leigh Thomas with the defence of Johnson, Ferguson, Mosely, Hall and Cole standing up well to the onslaught. However a chink in the Carew armoury saw the Students Centre Forward one on one with Carew's Keeper Thomas to put the Students level at one a piece.
Carew Rallied and had several chances to win the game with Kendrick coming close after two solo runs, Willliams flying down the wing and creating havoc in the final quarter and Mason attacking the visitors circle on several occasions. Numerous short corners were awarded but Carew could not make the most of their possession and chances.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), S. Kendrick (C), E. Williams, D. Woods, B. Wheeler, J. Mason, G. Cole, O. Johnson, A. Hall, D. Ferguson, S. Moseley, M. Bowles.
Umpires: D. Miller, J. Wheeler.
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Carew 2nd XI 3 - Cardiff & UWIC 6
Value for money for a neutral spectator saw Cardiff & UWIC come out on top in this goal feast.
Fieldhouse scored his first Career hat trick with three goals in the first half with his last goal gifted him from a Joel Meridith strike at goal. Patrick Baker had an excellent game in goal with Ian Baker holding the defensive lineup of Doona, Bowles, Meredith and Evans together well. Jon Moore, Zac Cole and Captain Mat Clements gelled well in the Midfield with youngsters Shane Lewis and Andrew Baker making some fine runs and chances further up the pitch.The Carew newly formed 2nd XI played really well in all areas of the pitch holding Cardiff to a 3 - 3 draw up to half time. The second half saw the more experienced Cardiff team take control and despite some heroic defending 3 fine goals were scored during the second half.
Team:
P. Baker (GK), M. Clements(C), C. Doona, I. Baker, Bowles, J. Meredith, J. Moore, J. Evans, A. Baker, M. Fieldhouse, S. Lewis.
Umpires: S. Lunn, G. Passmore.
18 - 10 - 2008 Newport 6 - Carew 2
Carew travelled to "the Old Seven Bridge" to play Newport with half of their first XI missing through injury and work commitments, drafting in 2nd XI players of youth and experience who performed admirably.
With Mason barged off the ball early in the game Carew were awarded a penalty corner which went close to opening the scoring. Carew did take the lead with a goal from Captain Steve Kendrick after 15 mins but immediately lost the lead to a quick break by the Newport forwards. It was James Mason who put Carew back in front from a quick free hit taken outside the circle by Wheeler but again Newport hit back with a somewhat controversial goal. Newport went ahead as the half time whistle blew to turn around 3 - 2 up.
Carew were on top for much of the second half as they pushed for the equaliser but this proved to be Carew's downfall as they were hit twice on the break and saw the Newport centre forward bag a brace of goals in as many minutes. More fouls on both Mason who was having a torrid time as he broke through the Newport defence and Kendrick as they were taken out on more than one occasion only to find the offences going unpunished. To finish off a frustrating day Newport were awarded a goal with a minute to go from a hit that was clearly outside the circle.
Team: L. Thomas (GK), S. Kendrick (Cpt), D. Ferguson, D. Head, R. Fieldhouse, O. Johnson, T. Pritchard, B. Wheeler, J. Mason, A. Hall, M. Fieldhouse, J. Evans.
11 - 10 - 08 Carew 1st XI 3 - Whitchurch D 1
Without Smith as a target man up front Kendrick moved up and soon found himself on the score sheet picking up a ball on the halfway line from an Whitchurch error and skipping past the Whitchurch sweeper to round the Whitchurch Keeper and put the Rooks 1 - 0 up. Carew seemed to camp in the Whitchurch half for long periods with Williams being electric down the right wing but despite several short corners and shots on goal it was just before half time that Kendrick got his second to put the Rooks 2 - 0 up at the interval.
Bowles, Head, Johnson and Ferguson came under pressure right from the start of the second half as Whitchurch pressed to get back in the game but indiscipline from the travelling side saw several green cards shown and two off on yellow cards. Carew could not take advantage of their numerical superiority and infact Whtichurch seemed to play better with only 9 men! With Moseley, Mason, Pritchard and Cole starting to get back on top in the midfield and with a devastating run Mason put the Rooks into a 3 - 0 lead with an individual goal. Head was yellow carded and Mason dropped further back to cover the centre back position but a lack of concentration in the circle brought the Rooks keeper Thomas into the game for almost the first time but he was unable to stop a deflection to give Whitchurch the goal they had been pressing for.
Team: S. Kendrick (C), L. Thomas (GK), D. Ferguson, O. Johnson, D. Head, M. Bowles, G. Cole, E. Williams, J. Mason, T. Pritchard, S. Moseley.
Umpires: J. Wheeler. B. Wheeler.
11 - 10 - 08 Carew 2nds 1 - Llan & Caerphilly 2
Carew 2nds found themselves with more than 80% of the ball in their first home game of the season but were unable to penetrate the experienced Llan & Caer defence. "Age and trechary overcame Youth and enthusisum!"
Fine performances from Ian Baker at Sweeper, P. Baker at right back and Chris Doona at left back set the standards. Zac Cole, Dale Pearson and Joel Meredith, all under 15's, had particularly good games in the midfield with youngster Andrew Baker supporting the veteran Martin Fieldhouse up front.
With Hall and Clements controlling the midfield the ball was spread around the pitch to cut the Llan & Caer defence apart. Several short corners were stopped or deflected from goal as Carew pressed for the opener, but it was Llan & Caerphilly who were to win the first half. Despite being staved of ball it took only two break aways by the visitors forwards to see Llan & Caer take a 2 - 0 lead into halftime.
Carew turned around determined to get on the scoreboard. Clements picked up the ball on his own 22 metre line running the full length of the pitch through the entire Llan & Caerphilly team only to see his shot on goal just go wide. More short corners, more free hits outside the circle but still the goals did not come the Rooks way until Fieldhouse latched on to a rebound off the keeper. Carew now pressed for the equaliser and were almost caught out as the visitors took advantage of hitting on the counter attack. Ian Baker made some crucial interceptions and tackles with Goalkeeper Ferguson who had been rarely troubled in the second half pulling off vital saves.
Team: M. Clements (C), D. Ferguson (GK), I. Baker, P. Baker, A. Baker, M. Fieldhouse, A. Hall, C. Doona, J. Meredith, Z. Cole, D. Pearson, B. Wheeler.
Umpires: S. Lunn, D. Miller.
4 - 10 - 08 Brecon 7 Carew A 0
With two teams away on the same day and several players unable to travel due to work commitments Captain Matt Clements scraped together 11 players at the last minute for this the first match of the Carew A side. For Andrew Fieldhouse, Andrew Baker, Chris "MacD", Joel Meridith and Zac Cole this was their first outing after only one training session and for John Evans a return after 6 years in the wilderness with Rob Fieldhouse making the journey up from Cardiff after two years out of the game. This meant there were only 4 hockey players on the pitch of which three, Martin Fieldhouse, Ian Baker and Matt Clements, only have two years experience. Given that Brecon were a team of experience and youth the Rooks A team gave a remarkable display of grit and determination which brought them through a "baptism of fire" with flying colours! The first half was a bit of a "mish mash" but the second half was far mor controlled with both the Rooks wing backs and wing halves taking the game to Brecon and releasing the forwards to get some shots on goal and create several attacking short corners.
As no goalkeeper was available Martin Fieldhouse bit the bullet and kitted up as keeper doing a great job for his first game in goal.
With training and more game time this side will only get better!
M. Clements (C), I. Baker, M. Fieldhouse (GK), A. Fieldhouse, R. Fieldhouse, B. Wheeler, J. Meridith, J. Evans, C. MacD, A. Baker, Z. Cole
4 - 10 - 08 Penarth 1 - Carew 1st XI 3
Jamie Smith suffered a broken finger in the first five minutes which of this game which will put him out for 6 weeks but bravely carried on to score the first goal and put Carew on their way to their second win in the league and keeping them at the top of the league.
Captain Steve Kendrick added to the scoreline and James Mason put in the 3rd to make it 3 - 0 at the interval. Leigh Thomas pulled off some really good saves during a spell of pressure in the second half but a slip up in midfield gave Penarth the opportunity to get one back near the end.
Team: S. Kendrick (C), L. Thomas (GK), J. Smith, J. Mason, M. Mann, T. Pritchard, D. Ferguson, D. Head, G. Cole, O. Johnson, E. Williams.
28 - 09 - 2008 Carew 4 - Swansea 1
Carew started the season off with a bang as James Mason put his first goal away within 15 seconds of the start of the game having “walked” through the whole of the Swansea team from the push back. This set the standard for the first half with goals coming from a fine move down the left wing utilising the speed of Clemence who crossed for Smith to put his first away. Williams got on the score sheet with a fine run down the right placing the ball past the Swansea keeper and Smith got his second from a well worked short corner routine. Further goals should have resulted from the amount of procession the “Rooks” had but the finishing touches simply were not there.
The Carew defence of Moseley, Bowles, Johnson and Ferguson were seldom troubled with central defender Head marking the Swansea captain and centre forward out of the game and Goalkeeper Thomas, who was only called on once, making a terrific save from the only short corner that Swansea had in the first half.
4 – 0 at half time saw Carew make some changes of personnel and Swansecome out with far more sense of urgency taking the game to the “Rooks”. With Wheeler out with a head injury Captain Steve Kendrick and Mason ran and dominated the midfield creating several scoring chances with moves through the middle and down the flanks but it was Swansea who got the only goal of the second half from a short corner strike. Thomas made an important save from a Penalty Stroke to give the “Rooks” their first league win of the season.
Team: L. Thomas (GK), D. Head, S. Moseley, O. Johnson, D. Ferguson, M. Bowles, M. Clements, S. Kendrick [C], J. Smith, J. Mason, E. Williams, M. Fieldhouse.
Umpires: D. Miller. B. Wheeler.
16th February 2008
UW Swansea 1 - Carew 5
The question was could Carew continue the run of form they are in away against a strong student team.
The answer was a resounding Yes.
Carew were unable to take full advantage of the amount of ball that they had from the start of the game bringing several saves from the Student keeper. It took 10 mins for Carew to take the lead with a strike from the top of the 'D' by Williams who down the right was to give the Swansea defence more than enough trouble though out the game and found himself continually fouled as he left them in his tracks. Pritchard gave a really good account of himself at right back taking the ball back up the pitch with strong runs down the wing while on the left Cole and Lewis linked well to give the Students trouble on both flanks. However Carew's second goal came from a drive through the middle by Kendrick to set up Williams for a shot which Lewis tucked away.
Central defenders Ferguson and Head were rarely troubled in the first quarter of the game but some sloppy passing gifted the students possession and from a quick brake Carew Goalie Leigh Thomas made a great save to keep the visitors goal intact. But from a spell of indiscipline Carew conceded a short corner which the students put away from a well worked routine.
Both forwards Smith and Mason had found themselves crowded out on several occasions and despite some superb inter play when they did manage to get into the 'D' they could only hit the post and the crossbar! However it was Smith who brought the scoreline to 3 - 1 at half time when his shot from a short corner rebounded off the keeper for him to hammer into the net.
The second half saw Carew get on top of the game and rarely put a foot wrong. However more shots hitting the post and going just wide and several short corners that would simply not go in kept the scoreline down for most of the second half until from a set piece Wheeler placed the ball for Mason to direct into the goal at the near post to make it 4 - 1.
Substitutions with P. Baker, I. Baker and Clements coming on saw a reshuffle in positions. Clements got onto the ball and from a sniping run found Smith who put the game beyond doubt and making the final score 5 - 1.
Next week Carew face a strong Cardiff team who Carew just managed to beat in Cardiff in a gruelling game that ended 6 - 5. Carew will need to be on top of their game if they are to maintain their 100% home record.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), D. Ferguson, G. Cole, S. Kendrick (Capt), E. Williams, N. Lewis, J. Smith, B. Wheeler,
D. Head, J. Mason, T. Pritchard, M. Clements, I. Baker, P. Baker.
23rd February 2008
Carew 7 - Cardiff & UWIC 2
Despite controlling the game from the start It took 20 mins for Carew to get infront with a goal from Kendrick. The defence of Ferguson, Moseley, Head and Cole were rarely troubled up to this point with Goalkeeper Thomas a mere spectator. How things changed after the first goal went in. Mason got Carew's second but Cardiff replied almost straight away catching Carew out with a soft goal. Smith got on the scoreboard with a deft touch chipped over the Cardiff keeper that was presented to him after some intelligent play from Williams and Pritchard down the right wing, shortly followed by Carew's 4th when Lewis intercepted a hit out and put Smith in on goal for his second. Cardiff again hit back with another soft reply to make it 4 - 2 at the interval.
Stong words from a half time team talk and Carew came out taking the initiative. Wheeler's distribution options had been cut down as Cardiff had seen the danger of Williams coming down the right but this only opened up gaps for Wheeler to exploit down the middle. However Kendrick got his second from the ball being worked out of defence down the left flank and this was shortly followed by Kendrick's third to put the game out of Cardiff's grasp. Cardiff hit Carew with some decisive runs down the wings bringing several saves out of Carew's Goalkeeper Leigh Thomas who gave a spectacular second half performance.
Lewis came close to scoring on several occasions but could only be the provider in this game having set up several goal scoring chances for Mason and Smith. With 10 mins to the end Clements came on for Lewis and found himself in acres of space feeding the ball into the Cardiff 'D' for Mason to put the icing on the cake scoring Carew's 7th goal before being substituted for Baker.
A win next week away against the Aberystwyth Students will Crown Carew as League Champions for the season.
Team: L. Thomas, S. Kendrick (Cpt), D. Ferguson, S. Moseley, J. Smith, D. Head, G. Cole, B. Wheeler, E. Williams, T. Pritchard, N. Lewis, M. Clements, I. Baker.
Umpires: Dave Miller. Jane Wheeler.
19th January 2008. Carew 7 Newport 0 Carew started back after the Christmas break with a win against a travelling Newport team to put them on top of South Wales Division 1. Carew had 90% of the possession and kept Newport camped in their own half for most of the game. Despite attempts on goal raining in from Fieldhouse, Williams and Smith it took Carew 20 mins to break down the Newport defence and for Lewis to start the ball rolling with a diving strike at goal from a Smith cross. Further attempts at goal were produced by the Carew forwards but were thwarted by the Newport Goalkeeper and captain who again was man of the match simply for keeping the score line to single figures. Williams was dominant down the right and with two devastating runs brought the home team up to 3 - 0 at half time. Clements and Baker worked well down the flanks penetrating the Newport midfield and supplying ball to the forwards who were showing "Seasonal rustiness" with their attempts at goal. Thomas in Goal and Ferguson at sweeper was rarely tested and centre back Cole cleared up any balls that came through the Midfield. It was only 5 mins into the second half that Captain Steve Kendrick put Carew 4 up and then got his second shortly afterwards when a short corner attempt from Smith hit the crossbar and Kendrick sniped in to put the rebound past the Newport keeper. Smith has scored on each occasion this season so it was only fitting that his work up front in creating many chances was awarded with a goal from a fine individual run. The final goal came from Williams who saw his shot which would give him his hattrick parried in by Ian Baker in front of goal. Carew were without several players and will need to be on top form next week when they entertain Abergavenny in the top of the table clash. Team: L. Thomas (GK), P. Baker, M. Clements, D. Ferguson, G. Cole, S. Kendrick (Capt), E. Williams, N. Lewis, J. Smith, M. Fieldhouse, I. Baker.
17th November 2007
Carew 4 - UW Aberystwyth 2
A fast and pulsating game saw Carew take the lead after 10 mins with Smith hammering home a screamer past ex-player and UW Aber Goalie Martin Thomas. Carew were on song with the centre midfield pairing of Kendrick, Wheeler, controlling the game and the pace of Williams on the right and Lewis left flanks causing the students trouble with their pace. Carew could not capitalise on the amount of pressure they put on the Aber goal with the Aber Keeper Thomas proving to be man of the match with his constant saves from shots on goal. Carew's second came after 20 mins when Mason found himself in space from one of Williams runs down the wing to put Carew 2 - 0 up. Clements came on at right half and was immediately in the action feeding Mason for a shot on goal but Carew could not capitalise and turned around 2 - 0.
At the start of the second half the defence of Ferguson, Cole, Head, Johnson and Mosely were called upon frequently as Aber hit on the break with Patrick Baker deputising in goal for Lee Thomas pulling off some good saves throughout the game. However Aber were looking more dangerous as the game progressed with some penetrating balls being placed behind the Carew defence. It was only time before Aber got a goal back from one such run which saw the ball being struck into the goal from the top of the circle to make it 2-1. Carew got their 3rd when Lewis put pressure on the Aber defence and pushed the ball through to Smith to strike into the goal and it was not long before Smith put his third away from a direct pass into the 'D' from Wheeler. to make it 4 - 1. Mason had to retire with a hamstring injury which saw Fieldhouse enter the field to partner Smith who hit the crossbar and had several other shots on goal which on any other day could have given Carew a far higher score line. As the game came to an end Aber got their 2nd when their centre forward found himself at the top of the circle.
Team: P. Baker (GK). S. Kendrick (Capt), D. Ferguson, S. Moseley, D. Head, G. Cole, N. Lewis, B. Wheeler, E. Williams, J. Smith, J. Mason, O. Johnson, M. Clements, M. Fieldhouse, I. Baker.
Umpires: Jane Wheeler. Dave Miller. Sarah Lunn.
26th January 2008.
Carew 4 Abergavenny 1
Carew welcomed back Tom Pritchard who made an immediate impact in midfield partnering the veteran Wheeler as he had done at the end of last season. Several players had been suffering with heavy colds and Leigh Thomas was uncertain of playing in goal until the last minute leaving Ollie Johnson thinking he might make his first appearance in goal for the club.
Carew put Abergavenny under pressure from the start and were unlucky not to take an early lead with both Smith and Wheeler hitting the post. From the pressure put on the Aber defence it was just 10 mins into the game when a move down the right saw Williams feed Kendrick to put Smith in space for his first. It took Carew another 15 mins of constant pressure before Smith flicked the ball into the net from a short corner to make it 2 - 0 at half time.
The second half started with Carew losing concentration and unable to clear the ball. Passes were inaccurate and the ball was given away too easily. Three short corners and Abergavenny had got a goal back. This was the wake up call Carew needed. With Moseley having a strong game at right back it allowed Williams to keep on top of the Aber defence. Head and Cole had been given specific marking roles and kept their men out of the game leaving the Carew left half Lewis to have a field day down the left.
Carew's 3rd came from a free hit on the edge of the 'D' where Wheeler's hit was deflected over the keeper by Smith's deft touch. Carew had numerous short corners but were unable to capitalise until late in the game when a switched injection to Williams saw the cross put into the net by Lewis.
This win over Abergavenny who at the start of the game were on the same points at the top of the division puts Carew clearly out in front in the run towards the league championship. Next weekend Carew travel to Swansea who will be a more difficult proposition at their home ground than they were at Carew.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), D. Ferguson, G. Cole, S. Kendrick (Capt), E. Williams, N. Lewis, J. Smith, B. Wheeler,
S. Moseley, D. Head, T. Pritchard, M. Fieldhouse, M. Clements, I. Baker, O. Johnson, P. Baker.
Umpires: J. Wheeler. D. Miller.
2nd February 2008
Swansea Bay 4 - Carew 5
A team that Carew put 13 goals past at home were strengthened considerably for their own home fixture and took the lead after 5 mins of play. Carew have not had such a tough game all season but with promotion looking on the cards it was a good test to see how they would fair against the higher opposition they will meet next year.
With Captain Steve Kendrick having a wrist injury he was only able to participate in short spells however Smith was on fire and Swansea had no answer to the speed and ability of the wide halfbacks Lewis and Williams.
Carew got the equaliser from a mazey run by Lewis which Smith tucked away only to find themselves behind once more as Swansea hit on the break. Fieldhouse and Ian Baker partnered Smith up front for several periods of the game and both came close to getting the equaliser but again it was Smith who got Carew back on track with a well placed flick into the top of the net to make it 2 - 2 at half time.
Swansea were first on the scoreboard at the start of the second half but a long ball out of defence found Kendrick who put Smith in for his 3rd to equalise. Leigh Thomas in goal pulled off some excellent saves to keep Carew in the game with the Carew defence of Moseley, Ferguson, Cole and Head withstanding the pressure from an experienced Swansea front line.
Wheeler and Pritchard had their work cut out in the middle with the Swansea centre half Lez Malinovski influencing the game for much of the time. Halfway through the second half Carew had a spell when they put the Swansea goal under intense pressure. Smith hit the post, Wheeler hit the side netting, Lewis and Kendrick struck the keeper who was made to make saves to keep Swansea in the game. It was Williams however who followed up a short corner strike with a bullet of a flick that almost broke the net to put Carew in the lead. But Swansea were not down and out and came back to equalise again catching Carew on the break.
With Williams taking a knock Patrick Baker came on and sent a cross in to Smith for the winner. What could have been the icing on the cake nearly came when a diving shot from Smith saw the ball head for goal but the spin take it past the post as all were celebrating!
Carew still remain on top but with 3rd placed Bridgend at home next week it is a must win game to keep Carew on the road to promotion.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), D. Ferguson, G. Cole, S. Kendrick (Capt), E. Williams, N. Lewis, J. Smith, B. Wheeler,
S. Moseley, D. Head, T. Pritchard, M. Fieldhouse, I. Baker, P. Baker.
24th November 2007
Whitchurch 2 - Carew 10
Carew were slow to start having been kept out in the wind and rain waiting 30 mins for the Whitchurch goalie to turn up, but Whitchurch started well and put the Carew stand in goalie Matt Clements under pressure. It was 5 mins into the game and Carew got their first with Wheeler flicking the ball into the net.
Further first half goals came from Smith (3), Fieldhouse and Lewis to make it 6 - 0 at the interval. The Carew defence of Ferguson, Head, P. Baker and Cole had little to do all game after the initial Whitchurch pressure but although Carew started the second half on top with goals from Smith and Lewis Whitchurch caught Carew on the break and pulled two goals back from two short corners. It was a wake up call which saw Smith put his 5th in, Kendrick hit the post, Smith hit the cross bar, Baker see his shot just go wide, Lewis and Cole both came close but it was Williams who was flying down the wing all game and giving the Whitchurch defence no chance with his devastating runs who got the last goal of the game.
Team - M. Clements (GK) D. Ferguson, D. Head, G. Cole, B. Wheeler, E. WIlliams, N. Lewis, S. Kendrick (Cpt), J. Smith, M. Fieldhouse, P. Baker, I. Baker.
25th November 2007
Carew 9 - UW Lampeter 0
Carew were on top of the game throughout with the first goal coming from Captain Matthew Clements within a minute of the start. Further first half goals from Ferguson, I. Baker and Lewis with some excellent saves from Goalkeeper Mwnci Kendrick saw Carew turn around 5 - 0 up. Lampeter's defence was in disarray for much of the game with the experienced forward pairing of Ferguson and Wheeler pulling them apart. The Midfield of Head, Clements, I. Baker and Fieldhouse were strong going forward with Moseley, Lewis, Pritchard and P. Baker thwarting the Lampeter attacks. Second half goals came from Wheeler (2), Hunter and Ferguson
Team: M. Kendrick (GK), M. Clements (Cpt), I. Baker, P. Baker, M. Fieldhouse, N. Lewis, T. Pritchard, C. Hunter, S. Moseley, B. Wheeler, D. Ferguson, D. Head.
Umpires: S. Lunn, C. Hunter, T. Pritchard.
10th November 2007
Cardiff & Uwic 5 - Carew 6.
The delay to the start of the game had not helped the travelling team and Carew found themselves under pressure with Cardiff taking the initiative from the start. Carew absorbed several attacks with good defensive work carried out by Ferguson,Cole, P. Baker and Head. Despite being under the cosh for the first 20 mins it was Carew who hit home two goals from breaks down the right by Williams who's electrifying pace Cardiff found difficult to cope with. The first was a well placed goal from Mason from a Williams pass and the second saw Williams hit a screamer from the top of the circle. Cardiff hit back with a fine strike only to see Lewis at the other end dart in and hit a diving strike into the Cardiff Goal. Fieldhouse, Kendrick and I. Baker all had chances at the Cardiff end with the Cardiff keeper making excellent saves whilst the Carew defence continued to hold out with some fine goalkeeping from Thomas. Cardiff however came back to make it 3 - 2 just before the interval.
From the start of the second half Cardiff got on top and Carew were rocked back with two quick goals putting Cardiff in the lead for the first time. The speed of the game was intense with the young Cardiff Welsh youth internationals starting to dominate in several areas. However Carew are a team with Character and from some inspirational words of encouragement from Captain Steve Kendrick they dug deep to get the equaliser with Clements feeding Mason at the top of the circle. 4 - 4 was not on the cards for this game with the both teams looking for the win. Cardiff came back to make it 5 - 4 only to see Carew hit back with another well worked team goal seeing Mason strike home his 3rd. The winning goal came from Carew's only short corner of the game with Mason hitting a first time strike.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), D. Head, P. Baker, G. Cole. D. Ferguson, B. Wheeler, S. Kendrick (Capt), J. Mason, M. Clememts, I. Baker, M. Fieldhouse, N. Lewis, E. Williams.
Carew are home to UW Aberystwyth next week with a 1.30 start at Pembroke Leisure Centre. and look forward to gettin Smith back from his travels watching "Grease" in London.
3rd November 2007
Carew 8 - UW Swansea 0
Carew started with the attitude that was going to set the pace for the game. It was 4 mins into the game when Smith put his first goal in from a well worked team move with Lewis and Cole providing the ball down the left for Mason to slip the ball to Smith. The second came from a Penalty stroke when Williams' run came to an abrupt stop when he was deliberately taken out in the circle, the third was another Penalty Stroke when the goalkeeper deliberatley rolled on to the ball and the 4th from a well struck shot from Mason from a pass from Fieldhouse at the top of the circle. 4 - 0 at half time did not reflect the true shape of the game. Swansea Uni were quick with counter attacks but the Carew defence with Ferguson, Head, Mosely and Johnson and Goalkeeper Lee Thomas did well when called upon.
The second half was much the same as the first. Clements got in on the act latching on to a ball from right back P. Baker and putting the ball into the net with a reverse sweep. Kendrick go his first of the season from a midfield move and Mason got his second from another fine team move. I. Baker put one away with with 5 mins to go to make the final score 8 - 0.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), D. Ferguson, D. Head, S. Mosely, G. Cole, O. Johnson, P. Baker, E. Williams, N. Lewis, S. Kendrick (Capt), B. Wheeler, J. Smith, J. Mason, M. Fieldhouse, I. Baker, M. Clements.
Umpires: J. Wheeler. D. Miller.
Saturday 20th October 2007
Carew 13 Swansea Bay 2
Swansea turned up late with only 9 players, but at least they turned up, some clubs in the past have simply called off so thank you Swansea!
Carew controlled the game from the start and were in total dominance with 2 goals from Smith and a hattrick from Mason with a breakaway goal from Swansea to see the score 5 - 1 at half time.
Carew turned around at half time to see Smith adding a further 2 goals, Mason 4, Lewis 1 and Fieldhouse 1. Swansea were awarded a Penalty stroke for a foot stop on the line in the Carew Circle.
Thankfully it was a beautiful sunny day or the Carew Defence would have been cold standing around for most of the game! The Swansea Veteran international goalie Alun Morgan was man of the match in saving more goals than Carew put in.
Team:
L. Smith, D. Ferguson, S. Moseley, O. Johnson. P. Baker, M Clements, N. Lewis, S. Kendrick (Captain), B. Wheeler, E. Williams, M. Fieldhouse, I Baker, J. Mason, J. Smith.
Umpires: Jane Wheeler, Sarah Lunn.
Feb 9th
Carew 5 - Bridgend 0
Author D.Head.
On a fine spring morning with the sun shining, Carew took on a Bridgend side determined to make amends for their early season 6-3 home defeat. The home ground for Carew had become known as a ‘fortress’ with an impeccable home record in the league this season. The Rooks in no mood for letting the fans down.
The battle of wills inevitably led to a first half stalemate with both ‘keepers rarely troubled by counter-attacks. Right half Emlyn Williams made some headway down the flank, with the midfield pairing of captain Kendrick and the veteran Wheeler showing promise but no end results. Carew welcomed back centre-forward James Mason for this game after an extended Christmas break in the hope that his partnership with strike partner Jamie Smith would reignite a goal bonanza.
Left half Ned Lewis made a slow start to the game compared with the high standards he set the previous week, but his confidence grew as the game wore on. There was a new look Carew defence this week which took some time to settle into their pre-match game-plan. However, ever-present sweeper Dave Ferguson marshalled the defence well, with Dwayne Head slotting into an unfamiliar left back role for the absent Grant Cole, and Simon ‘Smokey’ Moseley reverting to centre-back given specific man marking roles. Tom Pritchard found himself at right back for this game having previously made his mark in the centre of the field.
At half time captain Mwnci Kendrick was able to air his now infamous “Ok, its 0-0 at half time” speech not used for a long time. Frustrations were high due to a lack of the goals which usually mark Carew’s games. Sub Martin Fieldhouse gave an insight from the sideline and Wheeler gave some much needed guidance.
The second half began much as the first ended with the defence rolling up their sleeves and setting about their tasks with grit. The Smokey/Ferguson partnership began to control the opposition well, with the occasions they did get into the defensive ‘D’ being dealt with quickly and effectively by Carew goalkeeper Leigh Thomas and his cat-like reflexes. Right back Pritchard settled and began to supply Williams with some good passes.
With the defence now functioning well, the half backs Lewis and Williams began to enjoy the freedom of both flanks, Lewis now settling in and providing pace and agility down the left, Williams with his trademark one-handed marauding runs setting the right on fire.
A miss-hit up front led to centre-forward Smith continuing his phenomenal strike rate this season, followed soon after by Mason with a goal on his return and then another for a quick fire brace. Mwnci left the pitch at this point to get some fresh legs on in the form of Fieldhouse who was eager to impress.
The Bridgend side did not roll, over with attacks still coming down both flanks. Left back Head provided cover across the back of the pitch with some determined running and well timed challenges to allow Carew to regroup.
Further substitutions ensued with Ian Baker taking to the field to replace Smith, and Matt Clements replacing Pritchard at right back. Williams’ neat work resulted in an excellent pass to Fieldhouse in front of goal for a simple tap in to make it four.
The Bridgend defence simply could not handle the pacey Williams as he swept into the D and took a deserved goal for the fifth.
A mazy run left half Lewis, facilitated by Baker’s neat pass almost generated a sixth but the job was done. With at least third place in the bag, Carew march on to face the Swansea students away.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), D. Ferguson, S. Kendrick (Capt), E. Williams, N. Lewis, J. Smith, B. Wheeler,
S. Moseley, D. Head, T. Pritchard, M. Fieldhouse, I. Baker, J. Mason, M. Clements.
Umpires: Jane Wheeler. Dave Miller.
9th December
Cardiff Medics 3 - Carew 3
Cardiff started strong and brought the Carew Keeper Leigh Thomas straight into the game taking two of his own players and the opposition centre forward out as he kicked the ball up the field. The Carew back four of Ferguson, Head, Moseley and Pritchard were under pressure for some time but with Smith on form it was Carew who took the lead with a goal after 15 mins followed by a Smith second just 5 mins later. Just before the half time whistle the Medics got a goal back to make it 1 - 2 at half time.
The Medics started the second half determined to get the equaliser which came just 5 mins into the restart.
There was some argument as to if there had been an infringement before the goal was scored but the decision was for the Medics to draw even. Care hit back almost straight away with Smith getting his hattrick.
Former player Johnny Harries was Yellow carded for playing the player and not the ball and Jamie Smith was sent off on a yellow to what was said to be to calm him down when he had come to the aid of the Carew youngster.
The game was further marred by an off the ball incident when the Medics Centre Forward hit Keeper Thomas on the head with his stick which went unpunished. Rattled by these incidents and with no centre forward Carew were unable to stretch their lead and with 2 mins from the end of the game conceded a soft goal.
Despite being awarded a short corner right at the end of the game Carew were not allowed to take it and the game ended in a draw.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK), E. Williams, D. Ferguson, D. Head, S. Moseley, B. Wheeler, N. Lewis, T. Pritchard, J. Smith, M. Fieldhouse, S. Kendrick (Captain), B. Minney.
====================
2nd December 2007
Neath 4 - Carew 4
This 2nd XI friendly game at Neath was played in the true spirit of the game. In the cold, wet and windy conditions Carew could not get it together despite some early short corner attempts and it was Neath who opened the scoring with a fine goal being placed passed the Carew Keeper Ned Lewis some 25 mins into the game. Carew went further behind when Neath scored their second just before half time.
Carew got one back from Kendrick only to see Neath go 3 -1 ahead from a short corner. Neath stretched their lead to 4 -1 before Kendrick put in another shortly followed by a goal from Simon Moseley with Kendrick getting the equaliser just before the end.
Team: N. Lewis (GK), M. Kendrick, M. Clements, P. Baker, M. Fieldhouse, D. Ferguson, J. Mason, S. Moseley, D. Head, I. Baker, G. Cole.
Saturday 6th October
Newport 1 - Carew 9.
Following on from last weeks fine win 5 - 3 against the Cardiff Medics, Carew went top of the table with this weeks win against newly promoted Newport who are at present finding it hard to settle into the higher standard.
From the start of the game Ned Lewis got in on goal to bag the first of 9.
The defensive trio of Dave Ferguson, Patrick Baker and Brian Minney were kept busy with Newport trying to hit Carew on the break and Carew Goalie Lee Thomas when called upon made some great saves. Nick Richards again provided pace with Ned Lewis down the right flank with Matthew Clements and Grant Cole solid on the left. Captain Stevio Kendrick and Bernie Wheeler were rarely troubled in the middle of the park and Dwayne Head swept behind the midfield with confidence. First half goals came from Smith with a first half hattrick and Grant Cole sneaking one in before his rolling substitution with "Clem" Clements to make it 5 - 0 at half time.
The second half started in the same manner as the first half ended with "The Rooks" in complete control in all departments. With only 15 minutes into the second half Martin Fieldhouse slotted in a square ball to make it 6. Ian Baker came close on several occasions and Kendrick peppered the home team's goal but it was Smith who put another two away to make it 8 . Newport however did not roll over and Carew were made to fight for every goal they scored with the Newport Goalie being voted man of the match for the numerous saves he made throughout the game.
From a short corner near the end of the game Newport's Thong Bowey pulled one back for the home side before Smith got his double hattrick from a hard hit cross from Wheeler which Smith delicately looped over the keeper.
Next Saturday Carew are Away to second place Abergavenny.
Team:
L.Thomas (GK), D. Ferguson, P. Baker, M. Clements, G. Cole, B. Minney, D. Head, N. Richards, N. Lewis,
S. Kendrick (C), J. Smith, M. Fieldhouse, I. Baker, B. Wheeler....
Saturday 13th of October
Abergavenny 4 - Carew 3
Carew started well pushing Aber for the first 20 mins but unable to capitalise on the amount af ball and pressure that they put on the Aber defence. Several shots on goal were saved by a busy Abergavenny Keeper. A break from deep within the Aber half resulted in the first goal for the home team. The defence of Cole, Head, Baker and Ferguson saw the Aber centre forward get behind them and slip the ball past Carew goalie Lee Thomas.
Carew got one back through Mason from a goal mouth scramble but unfortunately went 2 - 1 down when the midfield were caught out of position and again a break from deep within the Aber half resulted in the ball just scraping into the Carew goal off the post.
With half time minutes away a long ball through from the Aber sweeper put the home centre forward through for his 2nd to see the half close 3 -1 to Abergavenny.
From the start of the 2nd half as Carew pressed for a goal Aber again from a quick counter attack got their 4th. Carew had so much ball and created several chances with many short corners awarded but found it hard to break down the Aber defence. A well worked move from Williams driving down the right linking with Kendrick who crossed the ball over to the left half Lewis for him to find Mason in the 'D' and put him in for his second.
From a short corner Mason again scooped the ball into the net however the goal was dissallowed as not having gone outside the 'D' but the decision when questioned was then changed by the umpire to not controlled. The Carew team were completely bemused.
Soon after Jamie Smith stepped up to convert a Penalty stroke. The last 15 mins of the game was all Carew's but Aber managed to hold out to the final whistle.
Team:
Lee Smith (GK), Dave Ferguson, Patrick Baker, Martin Fieldhouse, Dwayne Head, Grant Cole, Bernie Wheeler, Emlyn Williams, Stevo Kendrick (C), Matthew Clements, Ned Lewis, James Mason, Jamie Smith, Ian Baker.
Saturday 29th September.
Carew Hockey Club 5 - Cardiff Medics 3.
Cardiff Medics travelled to Carew on Saturday for the first League game of the season.
Carew welcomed back Jamie Smith, Simon Moseley and Leigh Smith who had all been out of the scene for a couple of years with newcomers Matthew Clements and James Mason making their first appearance.
Mason almost opened the scoring within 20 seconds with a mazey run straight from the off only to see his shot at goal saved from the Medics keeper Dan Butcher who was going to have a busy day. Carew kept the pressure on the Medics but from a quick break the visitors took the lead with a well struck goal from their centre forward James Ward.
It did not take long for Carew to get back on even terms. James Mason got his first goal from a well worked short corner with Jamie Smith and then his second from another attack soon afterwards. Captain Mwnci Kendrick and veteran Bernie Wheeler controlled the Midfield for Carew but the Medics Centre half, former club player and Haverfordwest born Jonny Harris was himself having a good game and made sure that Carew did not have all their own way. Matthew Clements worked hard on the left attack and substitute Patrick Baker continued to hassle the Medics defence. Nick Richards and Ned Lewis were tireless down the Carew right sending the ball into the Medics circle and from one attack Mason got his hattrick to see Carew turn around 3 - 1 up.
From the restart Ian Baker found himself infront of goal with a tap in which the Medics keeper somehow managed to keep out. Martin Fieldhouse substituting for Baker also came close but the 4th came from Grant Cole who sneaked in on the far post to put in a Kendrick cross.
Was it Carew's complacency, lack of match fitness or simply the Medics youth and enthusiasm which brought them back into the game? A deflection from a cross saw the ball go past Thomas who had been solid in goal to make the score 4 - 2 then that man Mason got his 4th to restore the 3 goal gap. Simon Moseley and Ollie Johnson in defence with Dave Ferguson at sweeper were now under siege as the Medics tried to get something in the last 10 mins. From a series of short corners the Medics had the last say with a hard strike into the bottom corner for the match to finish 5 - 3.
Carew travel to newly promoted Newport next week for the second game of the season.
Team:
L. Thomas (GK). D. Ferguson. S. Moseley, D. Head, N. Richards, N. Lewis. M. Kendrick (C), B. Wheeler. J. Smith. M. Clements. I Baker, P. Baker, M. Fieldhouse, O. Johnson, J. Mason, G. Cole.
Umpires: D. Miller. G. Passmore.
