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Under 8' Tigers
LGE 23/09/07 11.00 GOSFORTH WALKER CENTRAL 0 4 - " 30/09/07 13.00 " NORTH SHIELDS COUGARS 2 1 CLARK(2) " 07/10/07 10.00 " BEDLINGTON JUN MILAN 2 5 CLARK(2) " 14/10/07 12.00 " GUIDE POST JUNIORS 1 3 CRAIG " 21/10/07 11.00 " CRAMLINGTON BLUE STAR 8 1 GORDON(6), CRAIG & NICHOLLS " 28/10/07 13.00 " NEWCASTLE CITY RANGERS 1 4 GORDON " 04/11/07 12.00 " WHITLEY BAY BC BLUES 0 9 - " 11/11/07 13.00 " CRAMLINGTON JUN CORINTHIANS 1 6 CRAIG " 18/11/07 10.00 " NORTH SHIELDS LIONS P P - " 25/11/07 10.00 " BLYTH RANGERS DEPORTIVO 1 0 GORDON " 02/12/07 10.00 " WHITLEY BAY JUN PORTO 1 3 CRAIG " 09/12/07 10.00 " WALLSEND BC GREENS 0 9 - " 16/12/07 13.00 " CRAMLINGTON JUN CELTA 4 6 CRAIG(4) " 23/12/07 09.00 " BLYTH TOWN WHITES 1 9 SWINNEY " 30/12/07 09.00 " TYNEMOUTH UNITED 5 0 CRAIG(2), SWINNEY, BARNES & NICHOLLS " 05/01/08 11.00 " NORTH SHIELDS JUN LIONS 2 7 HARVEY & GORDON " 06/01/08 13.00 " ASHINGTON AFC 3 1 GORDON(2) & CRAIG " 13/01/08 12.00 " CRAMLINGTON JUN PALMERAS 5 2 GORDON(3) & CRAIG(2) LGE 20/01/08 - GOSFORTH BLYTH RANGERS VALENCIA 4 1 SWINNEY(2), GORDON & CRAIG " 27/01/08 - " NEWSHAM JUNIORS 3 2 HARVEY, GORDON & NICHOLLS " 03/02/08 - " BLYTH TOWN GREENS 4 2 CRAIG(2) & GORDON(2) " 10/02/08 - " NEWCASTLE CITY RANGERS 1 1 CRAIG " 17/02/08 - " WHITLEY BAY PORTO 1 3 SWINNEY " 24/02/08 - " BLYTH RANGERS DEPORTIVO 2 4 SWINNEY & BARNES " 02/03/08 - " ELLINGTON JUNIORS 2 1 CLARK & WALTON-DAVIS " 09/03/08 - " ELLINGTON JUNIORS 1 0 GORDON " 16/03/08 - " BLYTH RANGERS VALENCIA - - - Match Reports
9/3/08 - North Shields Tigers 1 (Gordon) Ellington Juniors 0
We thought it was gonna be one of those days...
A strange start to the day. A student 5-a-side competition was on (shouldn't they be studying!!! In my day...) and the lads were squashed in warm up facilities without the usual freedom they require. Onto the match and the first few minutes pictured what the rest of the match would be - a break, a corner, a chance, a clearance. Lord knows how many times this happened, but the whole of the crowd (including the Ellington fans) were amazed at the good fortune of the Northumberland youngsters.
The forward line of Aaron and Tom C were a constant threat, with Tom's pace and Aaron's shots causing havoc and the battling of the midfielders Adam, William, Kieran and Josh not letting the Ellington boys near the ball. When the ball managed to get over the half way line, Tom S & Nathan easily dealt with it and, unlike at the start of the season where a hoof upfield would suffice, they cleverly played the ball through for another foray up field for more chances...
...and what chances - William lobbing the ball over the keeper but also over the bar, Aaron's cross shot just evading the far post, Tom C stealing the ball and knocking it past both keeper and post, Aaron again having a shot well saved by the keeper, Tom S with a blocked shot, Adam with a blocked shot...even Nicholas was having a go with his much improved kicks!
Half time came and went with entertainment - Phil Swinney slapping the ball wide with his 'weak' left foot, then falling on his backside after being tackled by a primary school child - you've still got it Phil!
It looked like 0-0, and Lee was getting agitated. The Ellington fans felt the need to inform the ref when Lee was almost on the centre circle giving advice. Then the final push, and the ref gave a free kick on the left hand side of the box. Up stepped Aaron and cracked it in - followed by cartwheel and cheers. We thought it was all over, but Ellington had other ideas. A break left the striker one on one with Nicholas, but he stood tall and wide and blocked the shot - great keeping.
1-0 and back on the up - keep it going lads.
Man of the Match - Kieran Barnes - hassled and hassled, but where was the trophy Lee???
2/3/08 North Shields Tigers 2 (Clark, Walton-Davis) Ellington Juniors 1
A proud day in the Walton-Davis household!!!
Now I don't know what happened in the first quarter - the Catholic Mafia had a get together and Tom S, Tom C and Harry had to drive manically from West Monkseaton to Gosforth to get there for the Second Quarter. It was 0-0 when we arrived.
An absolutely monster wind was causing havoc with any semblance of artistic play and the temptation to hoof it with the wind was far too easy. Both keepers were busy taking goal kicks from through balls that went through the midfield, attack and onto the next pitch.
The Tigers were battling hard, and everyone was doing their bit. A few chances were created, but Ellington were also confident, especially with the wind behind them. A quick punt up the field from the Ellington defender left the Tigers with only two in defence, a ricochet, a bit of pinball and the net was bulging. 1-0 down and we were worrying about heads going down.
The fact we had the gale behind us in the third quarter was a huge boost. Tom S made a great run that almost led to a goal but, as always, the ball didn't fall to anyone. Then Tom C ignored Lee's shouts of "Tom....defence" to take the ball upfield, knocked it to Harry who struck a sweet left footer into the corner. Harry's first goal for ages...even Newcastle have won since then! We were celebrating that when another 'Highlight of the Season' happened. The ball was getting knocked about in the box and bounced out to William. "Shoot" shouted his Dad, and William duly obliged...with an absolutely stunning shot into the top left corner. The effect of the goal had a strange effect on William - he stood there for a second thinking 'how do I celebrate', then ran to the other end of the pitch to be mobbed by his team mates. Goal of the Season for me by a country mile!
The final quarter was going to be tight, especially as Ellington had the wind. Lee brought out the cavalry in the form of Jaffa Cakes- the lads needed the energy for the battle! It worked, and the Tigers looked the more likely to score in the last 10 minutes. Tom C had a couple of chances, as did Aaron, and Adam almost connected with a fantastic whipped in cross by Nathan. Ellington hit the post later on with the Tigers backs against the wall and the ref blew just before Lee collapsed with anxiety - if I had a pound for every time he shouted "Tom...defence"!!!!!
A great effort that gives the lads the confidence to get back into the top two for the end of the season.Man of the Match - Tom Craig - box to box and some good heading
24/2/08 North Shields Tigers 2 (Swinney, Barnes) Blyth Rangers Deportivo 4
Now this match I remember!
The Mam's and Dad's, Aunties, Uncles, Grandad's, dogs, goldfish and budgies were excited for this one...we'd all put a pound on the time for the first goal!!! The Blyth coach had a great little money earner with £1 for a bet on the minute the first goal went in...my cash was on 2-3 minutes and was I confident!
Tom C almost cost me the money in the first seconds, taking the ball from his own half and with "Don't score yet son!" ringing in his ears, he ran the ball too far. However, the Blyth team hadn't listened and within 30 seconds were 1 up, I was £1 down and the Tigers heads went down.
Despite the ferocious tackling and constant harrying of Kieran, Blyth confidently took the game by the scruff of the neck. By the third quarter, the Tigers were 4 down and a drubbing looked on the cards. The bubble had burst, or so it seemed.If we could play a league that was based purely on the final quarter, there wouldn't be a team to touch us. Whether we are physically fitter than others or just like to slowly play our way into the game (can we change all kick off's to 12.00?) the Tigers are always a match for anyone in the last 10 minutes. A couple of well taken corners had almost led to goals, with Aaron fizzing a couple of cracking shots wide. An Aaron taken corner then had the Blyth defence observing as Tom S expertly volleyed the ball in. Then Kieran again got in on the act - a shot through a crowded box evading the keepers legs (through them actually) and it was 4-2. Then the whistle went!
Well done for battling again lads!
Man of the Match - Aaron Gordon - constant threat with corners and free kicks.
17/2/08 North Shields Tigers 1 (Swinney) Whitley Bay Porto 3
After spending far too much time in my other job, I haven't had time to write the reports for the last few weeks...and I've forgotten what happened in this match!!!!
I vaguely remember...
Some absolutely crunching (putting it mildly) tackles from Porto
Being 3-0 down
Losing an early goal again
Tom Swinney knocking in a cracker
And that's it....sorry!Man of the Match - Tom Swinney - for scoring!!!!!!
10/2/08 North Shields Tigers 1 (Craig) Newcastle City Rangers 1
Top of the table encounter!
After the 'La Manga' style get-together at Deep Blue, the Tigers came into this match with a new tactic - FACEPAINTS! Each player was adorned with a carefully decorated stripe (courtesy of the artistic qualities of Gary & Paul) and had an extra bounce in their step...
...unfortunately this bounce failed to materialise in the first quarter and the Tigers were well below par for the first 10 minutes. Rangers scored early on when the ball bounced off their players knee, over Nicholas and into the back of the net. It looked like the bonding session in the diving pool had had a negative effect, with the lads looking very heavy-legged and without the usual 'oomph'! The lackadaisical attitude even had Lee screaming at the boys from the sidelines - he must have had an extra shreddie or two in the morning! The Tigers were lucky to finish the quarter just the goal down, and it needed some stern words (and a few teacups thrown across the changing room) to turn this game around.
The second quarter was a different story. The boys threw themselves into every tackle, were jostling for positions, chasing every lost cause and putting the Rangers under pressure at all times. A good run from Adam led to Harry having a good chance - the ball just wouldn't go on his left peg, however, and the chance went. As has happened a lot this season, the ball seemed to always bounce to an opposition player at the wrong moment, and the Tigers were unable to make the possession count. A good shout for handball was also turned down. 1-0 down at half time, but all to play for.
The third quarter was again a close affair, with the Rangers unlucky with a goalmouth scramble, as well as hitting the post. A good piece of keeping from Nicholas also kept the score down - he rushed out to the oncoming striker, diverting the shot for a corner. The Tigers were still battling hard, with Tom S in particular putting himself about, and Harry showing his boots could be used for kicking things apart from balls!!! A couple of chances fell the way of the Tigers - Tom C unable to divert a great pass from Nathan into the goal, and a goalmouth scramble AGAIN not falling to a Tiger. Phil was getting hot under the collar, but luckily there were no Mothers from Blyth to have a go at!
The fighting qualities continued to show the Tigers at their best, and more chances - a good run from Harry, cross shot from Tom C and shot from Aaron - failed to deliver the goal they deserved. A free kick near the half way line was well taken by Harry, and as the Rangers player wouldn't move back, Lee instructed Harry that "he's not gonna get out of the way - kick it at him!" But then came the magic - a lovely little one-two between the Tom's put Tom C through with two defenders on him. he was strong enough to barge through the defenders and the keeper, the ball popped out of the melee with Tom able to calmly side foot it into the net - cue eruptions from the sidelines and shirt over the head! But the match was not over yet - a speculative punt from the Rangers midfielder hit Harry's head and was going in the bottom corner. The cat-like reflexes of Nicholas stopped it creeping in, and the ref called it a day with a deserved 1-1 draw.
We are STILL top of the league!
Man of the Match - Tom Craig - a constant threat
3/2/08 - North Shields Tigers 4 (Craig 2, Gordon 2) Blyth Town Greens 2
As Middlesbrough are used to in the North East press, a very short report for the Tigers this week as the reporter was on babysitting duties!
As the reporter was sat feeding mushed up pasta to a hungry one-year old, the first report came through - Harry Clark, the birthday boy, arriving on the pitch in resplendent yellow boots, determined to make this a birthday to remember. Immediately...another beep and the message was read...1-0 up after less than a minute, the kick off leading to a clinical tap in from Tom C. No sooner had the phone gone down, a spoonful of mush in the babies mouth and a banana peeled for the four year old...another beep...a free kick pile driver (yet again) from Aaron! 2-0 up and I hadn't even got onto the yoghurts!
There then seemed an eternity before the next sound from the phone. In fact, we were halfway through 'In the Night Garden' when the news of the third (again from the 'fox in the box' Tom C) and fourth (Aaron again) came through.
Then...nothing.....................................
No more news till the knock came on the door. 4-2, followed by hot chocolate and coffees and lots of singing of 'We are top of the league'!!!
3 out of 3 and a winning run of 5 matches....woo-hoo!!!!
Man of the Match - Tom Swinney - fed the baby well and knew how to work the remote control...as well as dominating the midfield!
27/1/08 North Shields Tigers 3 (Harvey, Gordon, Nicholls) Newsham Juniors 2
11 o'clock. Gosforth Park. Wind. Gales.
Leaves blustering along the corrugated tracks of cars long gone. The Tigers forced their ways onto the field of dreams with fire in the belly and sights on another victory.
What could be expected of the Tigers today? Would it be the forcefulness, the desire, the grit and determination of the last few weeks? Or would the absence of Tom Swinney - grommets putting paid to his fine form of late - leave the Tigers without the bite in midfield. The waiting public were about to find out! Puffer jackets were out in force, gloves and scarves pulled tight and the till in the bar ringing to the tune of 'cockle-warming' coffees. Standing upright was difficult - how were the Tigers supposed to control the ball?"Keep it on the ground" was the shout coming from the by-line, and the Tigers started off with this in mind. The well practiced kick off set the boys up, and the Tigers fans were confident of an easy win. The wind, however, had other ideas, and a war of attrition commenced.
Two minutes in, one of many crunching tackles from both teams left a Tiger growling on the floor. Aaron stepped up to fizz the ball across, a touch from Adam, another touch from a Newsham defender and the lead was there. 1-0 and the coffee was still warm. Tackles were biting, and the ref (who had one of his better days!!!! Only joking mate!) Both teams had obviously had their three and a half shredded wheat, as the competition was absolutely fierce.
The Juniors soon equalised - a hopeful ball through the middle caught in the wind, left Nathan and Nicholas on the back foot, and the Newsham winger placed the ball extremely well in the back of the Tigers net.
The game was being dominated by the wind, and the lads were finding it impossible to play some of the attractive football they had played during the previous weeks. They also missed the spark of creativity and nifty feet of little Tom.
A touch of genius put the Tigers back in front. A free kick was given away by the dangerous Newsham little ginger lad (who was politely asked by the ref to leave the field - bless!). His indiscretion was harshly punished - Aaron stepped up to the ball and hammered it past the keeper's right hand, a stunning shot made all the better by it cracking off the post in!
The ref had a busy time - giving Tom C and Josh lectures for poorly judged tackles (remember, it's football not rugby Josh!). Josh, however, was dominating the midfield with his tackles, runs and good ball control. This led to the third (and decisive) goal. Josh received the ball through the middle, and with the crowd screaming at him to shoot, he calmly took his time and knocked it past the keeper. Talk about an old head on young shoulders.
Easy win now we all thought, but Newsham immediately got one back, and with the wind at their backs, the Juniors pushed forward. The Tigers defended resoultely, and even had a couple of chances for Nathan and Tom C, but a final score of 3-2 was a just score.
2 wins out of 2 in the Winter league, top of the table and confidence oozing through the side...if only the same could be said of that team up the road eh?
Man of the Match - Josh Nicholls - dominated midfield and scored a great goal
20/1/08 - North Shields Tigers 4 (Craig, Gordon, Swinney 2) Blyth Rangers Valencia 1
First match for the Tigers in La Liga and a great start.
Assistant Ian was once again in charge, and continued his good form in charge. The lads started with a Christmas Tree formation of 3-2-1, and looked very solid from the off. Tom S was in full control in a defensive midfielder position, and Kieran had a new lease of life in a more attacking role. As usual, Adam gave every ounce of energy leading the line. There were few chances in the first quarter, and the Tigers fans felt the game was there for the taking, especially now we were kicking downhill (!) The Tigers were again dominant throughout the second quarter, and had a few great chances, notably to Aaron and Tom C, but the keeper made some great saves. A series of corners were dealt with easily by the Valencia keeper (who was only 6!).
The third quarter started disastrously for the Tigers - the first Valencia shot of the match squirming into the right side of the goal. 1-0 down. The lads heads went down for a bit and this was Blyth's stongest part of the match and defensively, the Tigers played well, with Tom S again battling for every ball and Harry & William getting in the way of shots. The Tigers got a deserved equaliser when Nicholas played a clever ball to Tom C, who took the ball down the left and placed a great shot past the keepers left hand. 1-1 and all to play for in the final quarter.
The Tigers started tremendously with an immediate goal - good interplay from the two Tom's putting the ball on a plate for Aaron. Valencia came back strongly, and Nicholas was forced to make a great save from a strong left footed shot. Tom S had previously had a couple of good, jinky runs that came to nothing - and he seemed to be going up a blind alley when, with a swivel of the hips, he was past two defenders and placing the ball inside the near post - great goal and 3-1. It was soon four when good battling from Nathan led to Tom S blasting it in. 4-1 and a great win.
An excellent start to the league boys - keep it up!Man of the Match - Tom Swinney - 2 great goals and dogged defending
13/1/08 - North Shields Tigers 5 (Gordon 3, Craig 2) CJ Palmeras 2
The Tigers needed to win this match if they were to finish above Palmeras and in the higher Winter league.
Assistant Coach Ian had a full squad to pick from, and started with the usual 2-3-1 formation. The Tigers began on the front foot, with the well rehearsed kick off putting Palmeras under pressure immediately. The Tigers were 2-0 up in quick time - two goals from Aaron which were well set up by Tom S and Tom C - both goals were very well taken by Aaron. Nathan put in a couple of tremendous tackles and made a couple of good runs.
The second quarter started with Palmeras showing a lot more grit and Nicholas needed to make a couple of good saves, using his feet well. The Tigers went 3-0 up after a goalmouth scramble led to Tom C volleying the ball home. Harry was battling hard in the middle, while Adam was putting in a lot of effort leading the line. The Tigers went 4 up soon after when Tom C robbed the Palmeras midfielder, took the ball up the right past a couple of defenders and placed the ball past the keeper. Palmeras then showed a lot of determination and got themselves back in the game. First, a defensive mistake let the Palmeras player through and he calmly placed it past Nicholas. A second came from the penalty spot after Josh was unfortunate to upend the Palmeras striker. 4-2 at half time and a great game.
The second half was a much quieter affair, with William having some very good runs - one from the halfway line almost resulted in his first goal of the season. The Tigers went 3 up when Aaron put the ball away after good inter play between the boys. Aaron almost got his fourth with a great free kick - the crowd were cheering as they thought it had gone in.
5-2 to the Tigers and a place in the higher league - well done lads, you were outstanding towards the end of the season (3 wins out of 4 matches) and I have every confidence in you winning the Winter League!Man of the Match - Aaron Gordon - hat trick hero! Well done William who came a close second.
06/01/08 - North Shields Tigers 3 (Gordon 2, Craig) Ashington 1
An entertaining match played by two evenly matched teams.
The reporter was unable to concentrate fully on this match due to the need to entertain the centre back's 4 year old sister - sorry -there's only so much a can of pop and packet of crisps can do! The Tigers knew this was a must-win match if they wanted to get into the higher section of the league. Lee's new kick off routine almost worked immediately, and Ashington were then blown away with two wonder free kick's from Aaron - watch out Beckham.
Ashington responded well and had a few goalmouth scrambles that had the Tigers fans hearts in their mouths. They got one back with another cracking free kick drive - The Match of the Day Goal of the Month team would have had a field day!
The match continued to go from end to end - tremendous tackling from Tom S prevented many a shot from the Ashington boys, while William continues to improve on a weekly basis.
The Tigers made the game safe after Tom C took the ball down the wing and knocked it in with his left from an acute angle - cue Ravanelli celebration!
So it's down to the last match - beat CJ Palmeras and we finish in the higher league!
Man of the Match - Aaron Gordon - free kicks to be proud of!
05/01/08 - North Shields Tigers 2 (Harvey, Gordon) North Shields Lions 7
A very entertaining match played by two highly competitive teams.
The Tigers started the match in confident mood, especially as they had the lucky red kits on as opposed to the black and white stripes!!! It was obvious from the start that the Lions possessed some extremely talented footballers and the Tigers were on the back foot immediately. Solid defensive displays kept the Lions at bay for long periods - Nicholas was proving difficult to pass and Nathan was putting in some tremendous tackles! The Tigers were looking dangerous on the break, and Adam was tremendous holding the ball up. However, the Lions scored their first after good wing play. The second quarter resulted in a lot more possession from the Tigers, but defensive lapses left the score at 0-3 after two well organised goals. The Tigers were still battling hard, with some good displays by Josh and Tom down the left hand side.
The Lions looked very strong after the break, and were soon 6-0 down after three quick goals. At the start of the season, the Tigers heads would have immediately gone down and this would have resulted in a glut of more goals. These Tigers roar back!! Smooth inter passing between Tom and Adam led to the latter smacking the ball past the Lions keeper to the roars of the fans (and John Harvey in particular), and the Lions looked rattled when Aaron's corner was diverted into the net by a defender. 6-2 and the Tigers fans were shouting for four more! The Lions showed their mettle, however, and dominated the final few minutes, a goalmouth scramble resulting in their seventh.
A great advert for football!
Man of the Match - Aaron Gordon - dangerous corners and a kick off to be proud of
30/12/07 North Shields Tigers 5 (Craig 2, Swinney, Barnes, Nicholls) Tynemouth United 0
A great team effort with all playing their part!
The Tigers started the game with a squad of 8, meaning some of the lads had to play a full match without a rest. Josh began the game up front as captain, with a midfield of Kieran, Aaron and Tom S, and William and Tom C holding the defence together. Lee had obviously been practicing the kick offs as the lads set Aaron up for a great knock up field from the off. The Tigers were ahead within the first 5 minutes, Tom C running through the defence from a deep position and knocking the ball over the advancing keeper. A good run from Tom S ended with both Tom S and Aaron having chances that were blocked. The first quarter ended 1-0.
The second quarter began with Nathan taking Aaron's place and immediately showing his tenacity with a couple of fierce tackles - true grit! Tynemouth were playing very deep, hoping to catch the Tigers on the break, and almost did but Nicholas made a good stop with his feet. The Tigers went 2-0 up shortly after - Kieran's Dad shouting that someone needed to put their foot through the ball - Tom S duly obliged with a cracking left footer into the left corner! 2-0 at half time.
William was rested for the third quarter which began with the Tigers battling for every ball. This forcefulness led to Tom C robbing the defender and keeper and knocking it into an empty net - 3-0! Kieran was playing for a fiver a goal and almost increased his pocket money, but his shot was well blocked. Nathan also almost got his first of the season but his shot lacked pace and was easily saved. Tynemouth were still trying hard and only a tremendous save by Nicholas, a diving right hander onto the post, kept the clean sheet. Aaron's corners were proving a real handful with Tom C getting his head to three of them, one being well saved by the keeper. Josh showed his constant combative self throughout the match, and it was this never give up attitude that led to the fourth goal. Josh had three defenders and a goalie trying to push and force him off the ball - he kept on going and placed the ball in from a tight angle - great goal! 4-0! Ian still wasn't impressed - he though Josh should have passed!!
Tom C was rested for the final quarter and this proved to be one of the highlights of the season! Kieran managed to get the ball onto his right foot and knocked it past the keeper! 5-0 and five pounds up!!! He almost doubled his pot with another great shot which was well saved! Tom S was going for his hat trick after his Dad said he'd give a fiver for the goals! Some great attempts were thwarted by the Tynemouth team. The game ended in a bit of light humour with the ref failing to notice the Tynemouth team taking a corner from the edge of the box! We know it was an early kick off but...
A good all round performance lads - keep it up!
Man of the Match - Josh Nicholls - tremendous front play, a real captain's performance!
23/12/07 North Shields Tigers 1 (Swinney) Blyth Town Whites 9
Unfortunately, the reporter was away on international duty (actually visiting parents in Middlesbrough), so no report for this match, apart from mentioning the first goal of the season for Tom S and that the lads were done by corners!
16/12/07 - North Shields Tigers 4 (Craig 4) CJ Celta 6
A cracking match showing the full commitment of the Tigers team.
The icy wind on this 1 o'clock kick off left the Tigers fans hoping for an entertaining match to warm the cockles, and they weren't disappointed. The Tigers started positively and showed the same combative qualities of last week. Kieran had a great run that almost led to him knocking it in. However, the lads were 2-0 down by the end of the first quarter, with two outstanding goals from Celta.
The lads were a lot more confident at the beginning of the second quarter, with the appearance of super sub debutant Tom Swinney. Tom S (to distinguish between the two Tom's) showed excellent battling qualities and a great dribbling technique - a cracking signing Lee! Good play resulted in the first of Tom C's 4 goals - a good free kick from Aaron leading to Kieran's shot hitting the post, with Tom C there in true Bernie Slaven fashion to tap it in! Celta then hit the lads on the break, with the Tigers focusing on an attacking style of play (what you would call a 1-0-5 formation - only Nathan defending Nicholas' goal!). Just before the ref blew the half time whistle, Tom C set off on a run down the left, took it past the full back and slotted it past the keepers left hand - a great goal all on his left foot.
So 2-3 at half time, and end to end all the way with Celta also hitting the post.
The bombardment on both goals didn't let up - Celta coming close with a cross that unbelievably eluded everyone, and Kieran unfortunately stopping Aaron's free kick going straight in! The Tigers grabbed a deserved equaliser though when Aaron's cracking corner was kneed in by Tom C to the delight of the Tigers fans (and for Tom C's hat-trick). The boys were getting ready for the final team talk from Ian, when they were caught on the hop and Celta got their fourth.
Celta then turned on the magic in a fantastic show of quality for 5 minutes, with two goals scored and the No.10 smashing a wonderful shot onto the bar. The Tigers got one back when Tom S played a delightful through ball for Tom C to chip the oncoming keeper.Another tremendous match to watch - who needs season tickets for these overpaid professionals when you can watch lads starting in their careers showing true grit and passion!
Man of the Match - Aaron Gordon - great dead ball ability and always a threat (a mention to Tom S for an excellent debut)
09/12/07 - North Shields Tigers 0 Wallsend Boys Club Greens 9
A tough game for the Tigers who lost it all in the third quarter.
The Tigers were resplendent in their new tracksuits (courtesy of G.E.Clark Ltd - cheers Gary!) and trained with a new enthusiasm. Tigers fans hoped this 'freshness' transferred itself to the pitch.
The Tigers did come out a lot more determined than in previous 10 o'clock kick offs, but were hit straight away with a tremendous left footer from the Greens winger. 1-0 down after less than a minute. Credit to the boys, however, who didn't let their heads go down and battled through the quarter.
The second quarter was a different matter. The Greens goal was bombarded with Tigers pressure and although the keeper was only tested the once, with a goalmouth scramble resulting in the keeper falling on the ball, the crowd lost count of the number of fizzing Aaron corners and gargantuan Tom throw-in's. Again, a sucker punch - the Tigers were caught on the back foot and the Greens made it 2-0.
The third quarter was a disaster - the Greens scored 6 goals in 15 minutes - Lee, you're going to have to get those kick off's sorted! The Greens jumped on every Tiger mistake and the boys were 8-0 down!
The final quarter saw the Tigers back gnashing at ankles and rolling their sleeves up. A cracking quarter from Harry, along with some slick passing from Adam and Tom, saw the Tigers go close with a couple of efforts. The Greens got one more goal, but again, the Tigers showed determination and great effort.
Man of the Match - Tom Craig - but a deserved mention to Harry Clark, especially in the final quarter.
02/12/07 - North Shields Tigers 1 (Craig) Whitley Bay Jun Porto 3
A very evenly matched game was decided by the clinical finishing of the Porto team.
The Tigers started well, and attacked the Porto goal with gusto. However, there were few chances in the first quarter, with the defences dominating procedures. The match was being played in a friendly spirit, and the camaraderie spread to the 'terraces' with good banter going on between the fans. The second quarter started badly for the Tigers with Porto scoring immediately - a setback that led to the Tigers letting their heads go down a little. William was still battling hard in a defensive midfield position, and Josh was his usual rock-solid self.
The third quarter led to another goal for Porto, and some tremendous saves by Nicholas kept the score down. The Tigers almost got a goal back near the end of the third quarter when Harry tried to lob the keeper - a great effort well saved by the diminutive Porto keeper. Again, Porto scored at the beginning of a quarter ("lads, we need to concentrate" shouted Ian), but the Tigers got the goal there perseverance deserved when Tom and Kieran combined well on the left and Tom slotted the ball past the goalies right hand - the birthday boy celebrated by blowing out candles in front of the Tigers parents!
Well done to the boys who continue to get better week on week.Man of the Match - Tom Craig - Happy Birthday!
25/11/07 - North Shields Tigers 1 (Gordon) Blyth Rangers Deportivo 0After last week's postponement, the Tigers were eager to follow up their fine performance against Cramlington.
All the lads were available today, but unfortunately the absent coach meant a debut for the 'boss' Ian - using his vocal cords to good effect through the match, Ian kept the lads in a tight formation and focused on their role.
The match was a very close affair, with chances few and far between - credit must go to the defensive capabilities of Nathan, Josh, Adam and Kieran who gave the Blyth team only one or two openings, both of which were well saved by Nicholas. The only real moment of crisis for the Tigers defence came in the final quarter when a corner hit the post.
The Tigers had a lot more possession throughout the match, almost scoring in the first moments of the match when Tom took the ball off their defender and just failed in putting Aaron through on goal. Harry took a nasty knock to his knee early in the match - to his credit, he battled through the pain barrier. Some tremendous pin point passing from William almost gave the Tigers some chances on goal - however, the only real chance in the whole of the first half came from William threading a ball through to Aaron, who was unlucky that his goalbound shot was well saved by the Blyth keeper.
The second half was a similar affair, with the Tigers fans being frustrated by the ball just not falling to the feet of a Tigers striker. The breakthrough came in the final minutes of the match - a corner from Aaron being cruelly deflected into his own net by the Blyth captain. In the final seconds, a good run and through ball by Tom again left Aaron one on one with the keeper, who again pulled off a great save. To the Tigers fans relief, the ref then blew the whistle to signal the lads third win of the season.
Another great performance - these kids are getting better and better, especially William today, with more awareness of their positions and better ball control and eagerness.
Man of the Match - Tom Craig - box to box play, strong engine and some great passing
11/11/07 North Shields Tigers 1-6 Cramlington Juniors Corinthians
An absolutely tremendous performance by the boys against the runaway leaders in Division A. Corinthians have been beating teams by double figures this season, and it was easy to see why with them playing a smooth passing game. However, the Tigers matched them throughout the match and it was only clinical finishing and a touch of bad luck that seperated the two.
The first quarter was very tight and the teams were only divided by a single Corinthians goal. The second quarter started very well for the Tigers and they had the majority of possession and kept the ball tight around the Corinthians box. The opposition still looked dangerous and some tremendous goalkeeping from Nicholas Atkin and hard-hitting tackles from William Walton Davis kept them at bay. The Corinthians took a 2 goal lead late in the half when the Tigers were unfortunate to divert a cross into their own net.
The third quarter was a difficult one for the Tigers as the Corinthians played extremely well and scored three goals, including another own goal, in the process. Aaron Gordon had a couple of good free kicks, one that just eluded Tom Craig's glancing header. Again, tremendous keeping, as well as good defensive work from Josh Nichols, kept the score down.
The fourth quarter showed the Tigers at their finest - all heart and a never say die attitude. Harry Clark, Nathan Thewlis and Kieran Barnes battled and battled away and, despite conceding another goal, the Tigers got their reward - Tom's great run through the defence led to a free kick, Adam worked a great little bit of skill, took a cross goal shot which the keeper did well to parry, but Tom was there to left foot the ball into net, much to the delight of the Tiger's fans. The Tigers then had the Corinthians on the rack and were the dominant team when the ref blew the whistle.
The best performance of the season by the Tigers despite the scoreline - they played with a commitment and team spirit that will bring about some great results in the future. Well played lads.Man of the Match - Tom Craig - good defensive work followed by strong runs and a goal
04/11/07 - North Shields Tigers 0 Whitley Bay Boys Club Blues 9
The Tigers were beaten by a very well organised and physically strong team this week. A fairly even start led to few goal chances and it looked as though the first quarter was to finish goalless. After Aaron Gordon was fouled, the referee played on, the Tigers were confused by the decision and the Blues capitalised with a great strike from the No. 8 for the first goal of the game. This goal was the tale of the match with the Blues No. 8 running the show. A dissapointing second qaurter led to the Blues scoring a further 5 goals and despite the best defensive efforts of Kieran Barnes, Josh Nichols and Tom Craig, the Blues overran the Tigers this half, with most goals coming from free kicks conceded in midfield. Despite concerns from parents that the Tigers might cave in in the second half, the boys pulled their socks up and fought tooth and nail to get something out of the match. Some great saves from Nicholas Atkin and strong challenges from William Walton Davis led to only one goal being scored in the third quarter, with the Tigers then roaring back even further in the final quarter with some good chances and runs from all the team. The Blues scored two more on the break, but the Tigers deserve a great pat on the back for not giving up and fighting all the way.
Man of the Match: Tom Craig - crunching tackles, strong headers and a few mazy runs.
28/10/07 - North Shields Tigers 1 - 4 Newcastle City Rangers
(Scorer: Aaron Gordon)After last week's great result, the Tigers started confidently, with all the players clear about their positions and working hard for each other. The first quarter was an evenly matched game, with Aaron Gordon coming close to scoring. Newcastle were strong, however, and it needed good defensive work from Kieran and a good save from Nicholas Atkin to keep them at bay. The second quarter was again end to end, with exciting play from both teams. Dangerous corners were raining in on the Rangers goal, while tremendous defensive work from Josh Nicholls and Nicholas kept the score at 0-0 at half time. The third quarter started fantastically for the Tigers with a quick goal for Aaron Gordon, straight from a corner. The game continued at breakneck speed, but Newcastle were getting stronger as the Tigers tired. The extra substitutes the Rangers had were telling, and they equalised during the third quarter. Some very nasty tackles on Josh led to promising free kicks for the Tigers, but these came to nothing. By the fourth quarter, the Tigers were still trying to attack, but with some lucky breaks, Rangers took full advantage and scored three goals. A goal for Kieren was cruelly disallowed as the ref had already blown his whistle.
An excellent effort against a very strong team - the Tigers are looking better week on week
Man of the Match - Josh Nicholls - some great tackles and he never gave up despite receiving some nasty fouls
21/10/07 - North Shields Tigers 8 (Gordon 6, Craig, Nicholls) Cramlington Blue Star 1
A fantastic performance by the Tigers, especially considering they played the whole match with one player less than Cramlington due to holiday commitments from three of the squad. The match started with the Tigers in a 2-2-1 formation and they started well with a few good chances, but the first quarter finished goalless. An unlucky handball (ball to hand?) resulted in a Cramlington penalty, but the Blue Star striker blazed the ball over the bar. The Tigers then took advantage of this mistake with two quick goals from Tom Craig and the first of many for Aaron Gordon. The team were performing at full belt - Nathan Thewlis and Adam Harvey up and down the pitch, tackling hard and helping set up great chances. A crunching tackle by Josh Nichols spoilt a good Blue Star chance and the half finished 2-0 to the Tigers. Three goals followed for the Tigers in the third quarter - two for Aaron and one for Josh - and the second of Aaron's was a contender for goal of the season - a free kick from the half way line placed perfectly in the top corner - magnificent. Blue Star then got another penalty, but again this was missed, Nicholas Atkin not needing to dive. Blue Star did get a deserved goal back, but three more goals for Aaron, all set up by Tom, left the Tigers fans cheering, and a fantastic one-handed save from Nicholas kept the Blue Star score to 1. A great TEAM performance - every player put in 100% and were determined not to let the man advantage count. A great effort - keep it up boys.
Man of the Match - Aaron Gordon - 6 great goals and a constant threat.
14-10-07 - North Shields 1-3 Guidepost Juniors
The Tigers came into this game confident after receiving their new kits (and Elliott Clark was the new 'tiger' mascot) but were unable to get anything out of the match after totally dominating the first half. The team could have had three or four goals, and Aaron Gordon particularly shone with some good movement, ably supplied by Adam Harvey down the wing. A good run by Tom Craig almost ended with Aaron popping it in, and Kieran Barnes had a good run and shot. The Tigers took the lead though in the second quarter, Tom Craig pouncing and smashing the ball past the impressive Guidepost keeper. The Tigers fell to a sucker punch a few minutes later though when the keepers huge kick bounced over the defence and the Guidepost striker knocked it past Nicholas Atkin. The Tigers almost scored again in the third quarter, good play between William Walton-Davis and Josh Nichols leading to a great strike from Aaron, but this went wide. Guidepost won the match with two goals in the final quarter - Tom Craig could have got a goal back at the end but lifted it over the bar and Harry Clark also had a good chance well saved. An undeserved defeat for the Tigers after they showed great play throughout the match.
Man of the match - Aaron Gordon - lots of good team play and a powerful shot
7-10-07 - North Shields 2-5 Bedlington Juniors Milan
The Tigers met their match against a very well organised Bedlington team. A 5-2 defeat doesn't tell the full story of the way the team fought back magnificently in this match. Bedlington took the lead within a minute and dominated the first quarter, but stout keeping and defending kept the score to 2-0. The Tigers kept on knocking on the Bedlington door and Tom Craig and Nathan Thewlis both hit the woodwork. However, Bedlington were very strong and by the start of the final quarter had bagged another 3 goals to be 5-up. The Tigers then showed what a strong bunch they are and fought back tremendously. A scramble in the box led to Harry Clark whacking it in the back of the net, and Clarky followed it up with a piledriver from outside the box. The boys showed tremendous courage and would have gone on to get at least a draw if the ref had played an extra 10 minutes!
Man of the Match - Harry Clark - two goals and energy galore
30-9-07 North Shields Tigers 2-1 North Shields Cougars
A hard fought game ended with a just-deserved 2-1 win for the Tigers. An end to end first quarter saw both keepers tested, and Nicholas Atkin and Kieran Barnes solidly blocking the way. The Cougars took the lead in the second quarter when they broke through the middle and the ball was cleverly placed past Nicholas. The Tigers responded magnificently and a strong passing move ended with the ball being blasted in from half a meter by Harry Clark - his (and the Tigers) first of the season. A couple of smart runs by Tom Craig paved the way for Aaron Gordon to cut through the Cougars defence, only to be upended in the box. Aaron took the penalty, but was unfortunate to knock it wide. The match went to the final minute before it was decided. A speculative shot by Harry Clark was spilled by the keeper and rolled over the line, Harry delighted with his two goal haul. There was still time for Josh to make a great block before the whistle blew for the Tigers first points of the season.
Man of the Match - Tom Craig - non stop, end-to-end running Tom!23/09/07 - Walker Central 4 – 0 North Shields Juniors Tigers
The first match of the season saw the Tigers face Walker Central. Walker proved to be tough competition when they scored 2 early in the first quarter but the Tigers kept their heads held high and battled on. With some great defending the Tigers kept the Walker attack at bay and the next two quarters remained goalless. The final quarter saw Walker scoring 2 more but the Tigers had played a great match.
The Tigers defence was outstanding Nathan Thewlis and Kieran Barnes were solid at the back, blocking and clearing shots well and Nicholas Atkin our goalie gave a super star performance. Aaron Gordon, William Walton-Davis, Adam Harvey and Josh Nichols made up our mid-field they proved to be a great support for the team’s defence, they tackled well and got the ball forward when the opportunity arose. Harry Clark our lone striker didn’t have much action up front but he helped out the defence, made some great runs and tackled well, a very promising debut match.Nicholas Atkin received this week’s Man of the Match, well done Nic think you could give Shay Given a run for his money with performances like that.
Well done Tigers your team sprit and determination was clear to see throughout the match, what a great start to the season.
