Results & Reports 06/07

Alls Well That Ends Well

Saturday 5th May – SCFL Div 2 – Storrington 3 Midhurst 1

Relief all round at the Rec as Swans produced a display worthy of the top half position they occupied for much of the season, and banished any possibility of being sucked down the relegation plughole. Midhurst looked a class act when we went there in October, and topped the table in January, but their season has tailed off towards the end. And as is often the case, the side that really needs it finds a little bit extra for the big game.

It was a tight contest for most of the first period. Unchanged Swans were understandably cautious, and there were no chances to speak of until the game burst into life shortly before half time. Dean Leaver has really hit his straps now (which is excellent timing given that the season has now finished), and his deep cross was met by a fine Chris Watton header. The ball beat the keeper before being headed away, apparently from a good foot behind the line. Neither official spotted it though, and to make matters worse, ‘hurst immediately broke away to create a great chance of there own. Fortunately it was sliced wide. But Swans had the bit between their teeth now, and took the lead soon after. A visiting defender by his own corner flag had his clearance half blocked by Leaver. Rob Norris reacted first to nod the ball down to Ramin Jarvand, and the forward sidestepped his man before hammering (?) the ball into the bottom corner to send the home crowd bananas.

Half-time came and went without interrupting Swans’ momentum. Ten minutes into the restart Jarvand’s through ball caught ‘hurst square leaving Dan Griffin with a clear run on goal. Unfortunately he still had 60 odd yards to go, and five minutes later when the big fella finally reached the penalty area, he didn’t have the energy required to produce a telling finish. But even as he was recovering, another chance arrived more in keeping with his abilities. The industrious Norris made a nuisance of himself at Kris Bridle’s long throw, then Jarvand astutely hooked the ball across the box for his strike partner. Griffin controlled, held off his man and smacked it into the roof of the net for his 14th of the season. However, it wasn’t plain sailing thereafter as Swans began to tire. There were more than 20 minutes left when Adam Palmer, a tower of strength at the back, made his only slip, allowing Stephens to pull one back with an angled drive. But Swans dug in, defended in numbers, and made the points safe 10 minutes from time with the goal of the game. Sam Witherden’s imaginative free-kick, into Leaver’s path, initially looked to have gone wrong, but when the ball bobbled up out of a defender’s challenge, Deano sent a peach of a lob into the top corner from the edge of the box.

So an up-and-down season ended on a happy note, with a fine performance from all eleven. Gary Elliott was assured, and in front of him Tom, Longy, Palms and Chris were collectively excellent. The experienced midfield quartet were ideal for this occasion, and all had influential matches. Ramin worked his socks off up front, he and Griff ending with 26 goals between them, which although hardly pulling up any trees, is still a respectable effort when chances have often been at a premium. So while the campaign may not have lived up to early promise, we end it safely where we began, a point and a place worse off than last year. Rumours have been rife as to what might develop over the close season, but whatever happens, Swans will be having another crack at Division 2 in 2007/08.

TEAM : Elliott ; Bradshaw, Long, Palmer, Watton ; Gray (Witherden), Norris, K.Bridle (Blake), Leaver ; Griffin, Jarvand

Click here, have a cup of tea and read the report from the Midhurst website

A Long Forgotten Feeling

Saturday 28th April – SCFL Div 2 – Storrington 2 Saltdean Utd 1

Well, it wasn’t exactly convincing, but by ending their 10 game winless run Swans did what was required here to bring their Div 2 destiny back into their own hands. Saltdean looked every inch the already-relegated outfit that they are, but Swans are low on confidence, and must have feared the worst when a series of blunders saw them go a goal down straight after half-time. To their credit, they quickly turned the game round, and really should have been 4 or 5 goals ahead rather than having to endure a typically nervy last few minutes.

A quiet first half saw Swans largely in the ascendancy without really showing the desire one might have expected. The conditions, both overhead and underfoot, may have had something to do with this. Nevertheless, they could have taken the lead on a few occasions, most notably when Dan Griffin nicked the ball away from the Tigers keeper, but couldn’t catch up with it in time to do anything other than whack it tamely into the side netting. Griffin’s header from Dean Leaver’s cross was booted away from under the bar, Leaver’s shot was palmed away by the goalie, and all the while Jim Everett and the back four looked in command at the other end. But this seemingly solid base collapsed within 30 seconds of the restart, as from Swans own kick-off they gave the ball away, got it back, gave it away again and then saw a Tigers forward produce a first time chip over Everett from 25 yards, displaying either sublime skill or severe jamminess. I still haven’t made up my mind which.

Perhaps it was the alarm call Swans needed, because a little more than 10 minutes later, they were in front. First Griffin pounced on a poor clearance to feed Leaver, and the winger responded by sneaking it past the onrushing keeper for the equaliser. A deserved 3rd goal in 6 games for Deano, who had a good match, providing a steady stream of deliveries from the left flank. Then from sub Sam Witherden’s corner, the ball flicked off a defender’s head straight to Griffin, and he planted his header into the top corner for what proved to be the winner. Saltdean were then reduced to 10 men after an idiotic second booking, and Swans should have run away with it. Ramin Jarvand might have done better than shoot too high when Rob Norris teed him up, and Griffin blazed over an even easier one after Witherden’s approach play. But in the end it didn’t matter too much, the job was done, and we move on to the big one next weekend. A similar result will keep Swans senior status intact, but a big performance will be needed to get it.

TEAM : Everett ; Bradshaw (Witherden), Long, Palmer, Watton ; Gray, Norris, K.Bridle, Leaver ; Griffin (Blake), Jarvand

Stay Away From That Trap Door

Saturday 21st April – SCFL Div 2 – Storrington 1 Westfield 3

This ninth home defeat completed the crashing swan-dive into the div 2 drop zone. After topping the league in September, and sitting pretty in the top half as recently as the beginning of last month, Swans now have just two matches to save themselves. It now seems probable that they will need at least 3 points, possibly 4 (surely not all 6?), to haul themselves out of the self-dug hole.

Actually, this game began well. We have a very decent record against Westfield despite their proven status in the upper echelons of the division (it looks like only ground grading will stop them being promoted this season), and on a much-improved surface at the Rec Swans made the early running. In the first 10 minutes one of several good moves saw Kris Bridle and Dan Griffin combine down the right, and Bridle’s cut-back was driven into the bottom corner by Dean Leaver from around about the penalty spot. The lead didn’t last long though, as Westfield grabbed a feeble and horribly familiar equaliser – Swans marking went awry at a long free kick leaving an unchallenged first header, and when Gary Elliott missed his punch the second dropped into an empty net. Undeterred, the home side pressed forward again, largely prompted by Bridle. Griffin, Dave Cook and Leaver all went close, and Swans were perhaps a little disappointed to go in at 1-1.

Leaver volleyed over after the restart, but the visitors soon began to impose themselves, and it wasn’t entirely a surprise when they took the lead. And the manner of the goal really knocked the wind out of Swans sails. They took far too long to organise themselves after giving away a nothing free kick 25 yards out, and while Elliott was still positioning his wall, the kick was taken. He scrambled across, but couldn’t stop the ball trickling into the net. After that Westfield strolled home. They scored a third after a scramble, and would have had a fourth but for Elliott’s fine save from point blank range. Swans finished tired and well beaten.

Having said that, this was a respectable effort against a good team. Swans looked far more cohesive in attack with the return of the 4-5-1 formation. For an hour or so they gave as good as they got, and with Norris and Watton coming back to fitness, the mood remains optimistic that they can still play their way to safety.

TEAM : Elliott ; Blaydon, Long, Palmer (Wilby), Simpson (Witten) ; Cook, Bradshaw (Ayres), Gray, K.Bridle, Leaver ; Griffin

Swans Record Damaged By CD Players

Saturday 14th April – SCFL Div 2 – Crawley down 3 Storrington 2

A return to the catalogue of mishaps from March saw Swans go down in a crucial six-pointer, which now leaves them only 3 games to save their skins. They’ll have to win at least one of them, with all their relegation rivals gathering momentum, not to mention points. But there was precious little evidence here that some of the players even understand the gravity of their situation, let alone that they have the character to do anything about it.

Swans actually started ok, but when they lost Chris Watton with a hamstring problem ten minutes in, a team already shorn of the majority of its physical presence looked vulnerable. It was no surprise that the home side took charge, and the lead, when Swans simply didn’t have the height to cope with a simple corner. Martin Gray, pressed into service as an emergency centre-back despite struggling with some horrible blisters, then stumbled under a high ball, leaving a Down striker with a clear run. He made it 2-0, only 5 minutes into the second half. That seemed to be that, particularly as Swans played much of the rest with 10 men (explain later) when Gray was forced to retire. But ten minutes from time, a rare attack saw sub Steve Blake ram home a low shot following a corner. CD went straight down the other end to make it 3-1, but the collywobbles had taken root in the home defence, and a hobbling Rob Norris put Ramin Jarvand through to neatly reduce the arrears again. Sadly, Swans couldn’t carve out another opening in the 3 or 4 minutes injury time that remained.

We can’t really argue though. Crawley Down didn’t play especially well, but they were all pulling in the same direction, and clearly had the stomach for the relegation scrap. Their goalkeeper didn’t do anything other than fish the ball from the net twice, and they were comfortably worth the points. Swans, on the other hand, looked beaten the moment they went behind. Few did themselves justice, although Bradshaw, Simpson, Long and Bridle battled it out to the last. It didn’t help that we only had 12 players to begin with. When Watton limped off, Norris got himself changed despite having failed an earlier fitness test, so as not to leave us with the bare XI. Blakey managed to arrive at half 3, but with only flip-flops for footwear. It was with Mitten’s boot that he later poached his goal, after which Norris entered the fray, the risk deemed worthwhile with only a goal in it. If that doesn’t make much sense, it makes less when one points out the presence of messrs Blaydon, Witherden, Scott, Beaumont and Bridle (Matt) on the teamsheet for the comparatively inconsequential reserve game. I dunno.

TEAM : Elliott ; Bradshaw, Long, Watton (Wilby), Simpson ; Cook, Gray (Norris), K.Bridle, Leaver (Blake) ; Ayres, Jarvand

Easter Edge

Easter Weekend – SCFL Div 2

St Francis Rangers 1 Storrington 1
Storrington 0 Southwick 0

A pair of gutsy efforts over the holiday finally got the swans moving again, and not before time as their rivals at the bottom continue to pick up points. The two games were very similar; undeniably scrappy, but hard fought, tight, and with the draw the only likely and fair outcome. Indeed, I can only recall a single shot on target, at either end, over the whole weekend – a stinging Kris Bridle effort in the second half on Monday. If that sounds odd, then I should add that Saturday’s game was really another 0-0 too, disguised by one defensive disaster apiece.

Swans calamity came 20 minutes into the game at St Francis, when a harmless left wing cross took a nasty bounce on the bobbly surface, hit Gary Elliott on the shoulder and looped into the net for a comical o.g. Actually Saints were probably worth the lead at that stage, as their 4-3-3 line-up proved difficult to cope with. Swans dug in though, defended diligently, and either side of half time began to get on top. Before the break Dan Griffin sent a left footer just over, and after it Dean Leaver almost converted a Martin Gray corner. So it was no real surprise when these two combined again for the equaliser halfway through the second half. Gray skipped past a couple of challenges down the right and pulled the ball back into Leaver’s path. The recalled winger hit a first time shot that looked a trifle off-target, until a recovering defender stuck out a foot to divert the ball past his own keeper. It was a bit disappointing that Swans couldn’t push on for the win from there, but though they were largely on the back foot for the remainder, they held on to the point comfortably to extend their excellent record against one of Div 2’s top sides.

Monday would clearly be equally tricky against a fit, young Southwick side who had enjoyed the substantial advantage of a day off 2 days previously. But an unchanged Swans had the better of the first half, mainly threatening at set-pieces. From Leaver’s corner the ball dropped to Chris Watton, but he lifted his shot over the bar from 12 yards. Then when Leaver flicked on Gray’s rapid inswinger, Griffin was the merest fraction from making the contact that would have brought a goal. As it was the ball brushed his fringe and flew past the far post. The home side understandably tired in the second half, and were indebted to a staunch back four that repelled everything Wickers had to offer. Swans did almost grab the winner after a flowing move ended with that shot from Bridle, but the veteran Cheal in the visitors goal got in the way.

Though Gray and Bridle must be commended for their tireless endeavours in central midfield, the main plaudits from the weekend have to be for Bradshaw, Long, Watton and Simpson. They have knuckled down after a horrible March to produce some commanding form, which should give Swans the confidence they need down the home straight. Longy in particular was huge at St Francis, while Simmo defied his aching, newly-32-year –old joints to turn in a super defensive display on the Monday. We go to Crawley Down in good heart.

TEAM v St Francis : Elliott ; Bradshaw, Long, Watton, Simpson ; Cook, Gray, K.Bridle, Leaver; Griffin, Jarvand

v Southwick : same, except Ayres (sub for Griffin), Blaydon (sub for Cook) and Kanter (nearly sub for Leaver)

A Bit More Like It

Tuesday 3rd April – SCFL Div 2 – Lingfield 1 Storrington 0

No points, but hopefully light at the end of the tunnel. This game, unlike recent ones, was at least recognisable as a tight, closely contested, senior match. There wasn’t a great deal of football played on a cold night, and while the hosts were probably worth the win, Swans had chances of their own at 0-0, and performed capably enough to have banished their March demons.

A scrappy first half was pretty much what the doctor ordered here, and there wasn’t really a sniff of a goal until the visitors had their best moments either side of half-time. Just before the break Martin Gray’s long ball sent Sam Witherden through, but the onrushing Lingfield keeper saved with his feet. Straight after the restart Richard Ayres found himself in a similar situation, only for the home no.1 to produce a carbon copy of his earlier save. Dave Cook hit the side netting in another decent opening, but thereafter it was mainly the home side that threatened, twice striking the woodwork from fine volleys, and, in between times, grabbing the only goal. This time a Lingfield long ball caught Swans napping, and Gillard, the game’s outstanding player, rounded Jim Everett to score. Everett later made a fine diving save from the same man, while Swans struggled to sustain their attacking efforts. The final 20 minutes passed with little further incident.

In the main, Swans defended well, particularly Jon Simpson at left-back and Chris Watton in the centre, and confidence in our ability to grind out a result should be restored to some extent. More bad news came though, when Rob Norris limped out of the game with a hamstring problem towards the end. The captain has returned to form in these last two matches, and we will need him back for what is now, unmistakeably, a relegation dogfight.

TEAM : Everett ; Blaydon, Gray, Watton, Simpson ; Cook, Norris (Long), K.Bridle, Bradshaw (Leaver) ; Ayres, Witherden

Headline Writers Go On Strike

Saturday 31st March - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 1 Sidlesham 4

Not much to add different to the last couple of games here. Swans conceded an unlucky, deflected, early opener which snapped their fragile resolve, and lost 2 more very soft goals by the half hour mark. To their credit, they had the better of the second half with a blustery wind in their favour, and Sam Witherden netted a deserved consolation soon after Sidlesham had made it 4-0.

Witherden did well as a lone striker in the absence of Griffin (injured) and Jarvand (unavailable), while Rob Norris had a much better game in central midfield. On the whole though, no sign of the corner being turned here.

TEAM : R.Leaver ; Blaydon, Long, Watton, Simpson ; Cook, Wilby (Gray), Norris, Ayres, Bradshaw ; Witherden

Dickens Uses Metaphor And Symbolism To Illustrate Pip's Elevation In The Social Hierachy In Great Expectations. Discuss.

Sat 24th March - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0-4 Mile Oak

A fourth consecutive defeat, a second 4-0 home drubbing on the bounce and the goals against tally up to 19 in the last four matches ensured a new low point for the season and confirmed March 2007 as the nadir of Russell Penticosts reign. A distinctly average Mile Oak side matched the recent achievements of fellow bottom half sides Steyning and Broadbridge Heath in hammering the hapless Swans who now look completely devoid of any confidence at all. It had been assumed for several months now that the two relegated teams this season will come from Saltdean, Crawley Down and Lancing but with eight matches still to play, the away fixtures at fellow strugglers Lingfield and Crawley Down and the home clash with Saltdean have taken on huge significance. The concern for Penticost will be that by the time those fixtures come round his team will be so stuck in a rut that they won't be able to lift themselves for must win matches. For this is currently a team seemingly resigned to defeat from the moment that they step onto the pitch. They look like a side just waiting for the oppostion to score the first goal and when that first goal duly arrives, there is an inevitability that it will be followed by at least another couple. The players in blue resemble boxers going into the ring against Ali or Tyson in their prime, initially looking timid and afraid of what awaits them as they cross the white line, before taking a hammering and eventually looking relieved as the final whistle sounds and they head for the sanctuary of the dressing room.

Mile Oak are perennial Division 2 also rans and yet here they enjoyed the freedom of The Recreation Ground as Storrington players went missing all over the pitch. The Swans went behind 20 minutes in, to the type of goal that has haunted them of late. The visitors' lanky central midfielder stole a march onto the edge of the 6 yard box in anticipation of a long throw and the hosts were still trying to sort out their marking as he flicked on and his fellow midfielder ran onto the second ball to head home. When was the last time Storrington had two midfielders in the opposition penalty area creating chances for each other? The heads went down, blank faces looked around at each other, desperately looking for someone to inspire them and it was almost a case of when, not if the second goal would came. That it was still 1-0 at half time should have given Storrington some hope of a second half come back but it was 2-0 shortly after the break when the defence failed again to deal with the obvious threat of the big number 4 and his header down from a corner was rammed home by the gleeful Mile Oak centre forward. He added a second shortly after but the back four were unlucky on this occassion, seemingly timing their step up to perfection to leave the striker off side but the referees assistant had other ideas. 3-0. For the fourth goal, normal service was resumed as a Storrington corner was cleared and less than 10 seconds later the ball was in the back of their own net. The hosts created nothing of note for themselves at the other end before departing, heads bowed in shame to reflect on another shocking performance.

So, is there a way out of this malaise? Penticost will hope that the return from university of Chris Watton will be the solution to one of his problems, at least for the next four matches. The side has not had a out an out centre half to play alongside Andy Long since Watton left for Bristol in the autumn and whilst many have been tried in that role - Rob Norris was the latest to turn his hand to it on Saturday - with varying degrees of success, the back four has lacked a dominant figure and the consistency of selection that is vital for a solid defence. Other than that, its the same personnel who will need to aquire the points needed to guarantee another crack at Division 2 next season so they need to stop feeling sorry for themselves and get some spirit back into their performances and that needs to start on Saturday at home to Sidlesham.

Team: Everett, Blaydon, Norris, Long, Simpson (Wilby), Bradshaw (Blake), Gray, Ayres, Scott (Witherden), Griffin, Jarvand

London Bus Found On The Moon

Wednesday 21st March – SCFL Div 2 – Steyning 6 Storrington 2

You’ll have to forgive me for a match report that is less comprehensive than usual. Swans could find no enthusiasm for a game at a freezing Shootingfield, and I’m having the same problem in finding a few paragraphs to describe it. The visitors were second best in all departments all night, and have now shipped 15 goals in 3 games, this after only conceding twice that number in the previous 22 league outings. Most of Steyning’s half dozen were pretty pathetic, but then I suppose most goals are, from a defensive point of view. Ramin Jarvand did well to grab a brace in reply, but the fact that each time the home side replied within a couple of minutes tells you everything you need to know about this match.

Steyning never lack for motivation and fight, but on this evidence they are a decent team too, who have perhaps under-achieved this season. Swans, on the other hand, need to wake up pretty sharpish or face a nervous run-in, as 06/07 continues to uncannily mirror the previous campaign.

TEAM : Everett ; Wilby (Cook), Long, Blaydon, Tucker (Scott) ; Ayres, Gray, Norris, Blake ; Griffin (Witherden), Jarvand

Freddie Starr Ate My Hamster

Saturday 17th March – SCFL Div 2 – Wealden 5 Storrington 3

Where to start, where to start? After a season of largely close, tight matches, with goals at a premium, eight of them suddenly arrived in under an hour at The Oaks as Swans narrowly failed to derail another promotion train. On a see-saw afternoon, the depleted visitors somehow overcame a series of misfortunes to lead with 20 minutes left, only to cave in to a late Wealden revival.

There was no sign of the fireworks to come during a quiet opening half-hour, which followed the pattern of the recent away-day successes. Wealden dominated possession, but couldn’t make any inroads past an organised Swans back four. The only incident of note came 10 minutes in, when Gary Elliott landed awkwardly after punching a corner clear. The ankle injury he sustained severely restricted his mobility and kicking for the remainder. The game didn’t really come to life though, until Swans were dealt another blow after 32 minutes. Martin Gray and a home attacker ran across each other on the edge of the penalty area, and the Wealden man went down in a tangle of legs. You couldn’t blame the ref for awarding the spot kick, but it was undoubtedly a pretty soft penalty, which was duly put away. It didn’t take long for Gray to atone though – his understanding with Dan Griffin at set-pieces is becoming a pleasingly familiar feature of Swans attacking play, and this time his pinpoint left wing corner was met with a thumping header that thudded in off the underside of the crossbar. But there followed yet more bad luck right on the stroke of half-time. Tom Bradshaw seemed to have a Wealden raid under control, but when he collapsed to the turf having wrenched his knee, the home side suddenly had a two-on-one break, and they needed no second invitation to make it 2-1 at the interval.

Tom couldn’t come out for the second half, and two minutes into it Richard Ayres fell painfully on his shoulder. Since we only had 12 to begin with, Swans number was now reduced to 9 fit, 2 walking wounded. However, from this position of adversity, they enjoyed their best spell of the game. After 55 minutes Gray and Ayres combined to free Griff on the right, and Ramin Jarvand met his cross with an excellent downward header. 2-2. A quarter of an hour later another attack down the right wing gave Swans the lead for the first time. Several players were involved before Walshey, who looked very lively after coming on, skidded a low ball across goal for Griff to sidefoot home at the far post. But having shown such commendable fortitude for so long, Swans good work was all undone within the next 10 minutes. Three times Swans otherwise excellent defenders had opportunities to clear their lines, but on each occasion something went wrong, and the ball ended up in the net, despite some valiant goalkeeping. And that was the end of that.

Swans have shown several times lately that they are at their best when up against it, and so it proved again here. All 12 turned in worthy performances in difficult circumstances, and probably deserved some reward for their efforts. You have to hand it to Wealden though; their battery of quality forwards ensures that they are never beaten until the last whistle, and they showed the perseverance in this game of a team likely to be in the promotion frame come May.

TEAM : Elliott ; Blaydon, Long, Bradshaw (Walshe), Simpson ; Ayres, Wilby, Gray, Blake ; Griffin, Jarvand

90% Of Accidents Take Place At Home

Saturday 10th March - SCFL Div 2 – Storrington 0 Broadbridge Heath 4

After brilliant and unlikely victories on the road against two of the leading teams in the division, Swans welcomed relegation strugglers Heath to the Rec, a team with the worst goalscoring record in the league and without an away win all season. The most annoying thing about the thrashing that followed was that it was utterly predictable.

After managing to keep an unchanged XI last week, this week an overhaul of both personnel and formation proved counter-productive. The midfield fulcrum of those two wins was disbanded, with Mit moved out to the left and Wilbs discarded altogether. The result was a gaping hole in front of the back four, and the decline of Richard Ayres influence as he was forced to concentrate on his defensive responsibilities. And after a couple of vibrant performances as a lone striker, Griff managed to find it harder to get involved now that he had Walshey to help him.

Until we manage to get a roller across the pitch, we have to accept that games at the Rec are going to be ugly. With the ball often bobbling up above knee height, flowing football is all but impossible and the game is often reduced to walking pace. Heath adapted far better to the conditions, winning every loose ball and whacking it long into the corners at every opportunity. From this, they obtained the attacking positions required for the set-pieces that brought three of the four goals – from a Swans point of view each was more feeble than the last, as the defence had a collective off day. The third BBH goal that killed off the game with ten minutes to go was the exception, with a neat move well finished by the onrushing left winger at the far post. In burly no.8 Nick Weekes Heath had the games outstanding player, as his muscular style dominated the midfield from the word go.

As is always the way on days like this, fortune didn’t favour Swans either. A blatant shove on returning skipper Rob Norris was missed in the build up to the opening goal, and Norris himself sustained an early injury to his thigh that eventually forced him out of the action at half-time. And in Swans only decent spell of the game as the break approached, Ayresy found the bottom corner with a strike from 18 yards, only for it to be ruled out because of a striker in an offside position. In these days of the passive/active argument, the goal would have stood 9 times out of 10, and at 2-1 the second half might have followed a different pattern. I’d have my doubts though – Heath were well worth the points, and a four goal margin is a perfectly accurate reflection of events.

I think we were all aware that this was about to happen, but everyone was powerless to do anything about it; such is life on the Swan roller coaster. We were absolute rubbish, but there isn’t much point dwelling on it, just keep your fingers crossed that we’re due another up next week.

TEAM : Elliott ; Bridle (Blaydon), Long, Bradshaw, Simpson ; Cook, Norris(Wilby), Ayres, Gray ; Griffin, Walshe (Beaumont)

Dancing Queens

Saturday 3rd March – SCFL Div 2 – Westfield 0 Storrington 1

After last week’s invigorating victory, Swans were in high spirits as they embarked upon the longest and, as the league table indicates, hardest trip of the season. But while 2nd placed Westfield had won 8 and drawn one of their 9 home league games to date, there was optimism aplenty on two counts – firstly, the memory of the thrilling 4-2 victory at the Parish Field last February, arguably the highlight of last season. And more pertinently, Russell was able to name an unchanged eleven, for the first time since September. He and Trevor were unavailble for comment afterwards though, as they hurried away for an Abba tribute evening. Really.

So the visitors kicked off hoping for proceedings to unfold in a similar manner to last week. And they did, up to a point. Westfield play a much more direct game than East Grinstead – in Jones and Clarke they have perhaps the best front pair in the league, and they get the ball to them as often and as early as possible, before supporting in numbers. Swans 4-5-1 formation withstood the pressure though, Simpson and Bridle making their tackles down the flanks, Long and Bradshaw dealing with anything delivered towards the penalty area. Despite their territorial dominance, the home side couldn’t test Gary Elliott, and whilst it must be said that Swans attacking efforts were negligible, they were happy enough with a goalless first half.

The second period began in much the same vein, until Penticost ambitiously made two attacking changes and switched to 4-4-2. It certainly gave Swans an edge going forward, but holes immediately began to appear at the other end in the absence of ‘Makalele’ Wilby. Twice in quick succession home forwards found themselves clean through, but one bad miss and one good block from Elliott maintained the status quo. Then, out of the blue, Swans took the lead with twenty minutes left. Subs Norris and Jarvand were the architects, and from the latter’s neat lay-off, the Westfield defence parted like the Red Sea to allow Griffin to gallop clear and slot neatly past the advancing goalkeeper. A couple of further counter-attacks nearly made the game safe, notably when Martin Gray, who had another super game, exchanged passes with Griffin down the left, only to see his finish blocked by the keeper. His cheeky follow up from an acute angle bounced agonisingly along the goal-line and away. But mostly it was all hands to the defensive pump as the Parishioners aimed ball after ball into the mixer, and only a combination of brave defending and good luck kept them at bay - it just wasn’t the home side’s day. This was confirmed in injury time, when a howitzer of a volley from 20 yards was expertly tipped over by Elliott. When the resulting corner went the way of its 20 or more predecessors and came to nothing, the final whistle blew.

Another splendid away victory then. Performance wise, Swans weren’t nearly as good as last week, and they rode their luck at times, but if anything this one is an even more impressive result. The likes of Ayres, Walshe and Wilby didn’t quite hit the heights of last week, but made valuable contributions nonetheless. The back four were all outstanding, Dave Cook put in another tireless performance down the right, Jarvand and Norris made big impressions from the bench, Griff’s back in the goals, Gary is saving everything and Mitten looks as good as new. Roll on next Saturday!

TEAM : Elliott ; Bridle, Long, Bradshaw, Simpson ; Cook, Wilby (Norris), Gray, Ayres, Walshe (Jarvand) ; Griffin

Click here to visit The Parishioners excellent website for their match report

Grins Instead

Saturday 24th February – SCFL Div 2 – East Grinstead 1 Storrington 2

Swans finally got their 2007 moving with this classic smash & grab raid on promotion chasing EG. Having been marooned on 24 points since Xmas, an overdue win seemed unlikely as another depleted squad took on a Wasps outfit, who themselves had scored 5 in the first half hour of last weeks home win. But they reckoned without a truly determined Swans performance that, despite a late barrage from the home side, deserved the valuable victory.

Swans weren’t sorry to see the extent of the East Court mud, but actually the sticky surface was flat and true and made for an entertaining game. Without suspended skipper Rob Norris, and after a plethora of other withdrawals, Swans set up in a 4-5-1 formation, resolving to be difficult to break down. And so it proved, as despite dominating the early possession EG were unable to make any inroads. The defenders were all winning their personal battles, and in front of them Andrew Wilby broke up play and used the ball very astutely. Growing in confidence, Swans began to create chances on the break. Dave Cook put Dan Griffin clean through down the left only for the keeper to block with his feet, and when Griff returned the compliment Cooky’s first time strike produced another decent save. Fears that these misses might prove crucial were alleviated on the half hour though. Right-back Matt Bridle arrowed a long free kick towards the penalty spot. The home no1 advanced to claim it, but Griff rose in front of him to flick the ball into the empty net. It was nearly two straight away, as Cooky’s delicate cross after a flowing move was only a fraction too high for the onrushing Richard Ayres. Just before half-time Gary Elliott had to parry a stinging 25-yarder, but on the whole the lead was justified at the break.

A 2nd half Wasps onslaught didn’t quite materialise yet, and it remained the visitors who carried the greater goal threat. They doubled the lead halfway through. Paul Walshe gave a really gutsy display, his best for the club, and he was fouled as he jinked past two defenders on the left flank. After a nudge and a wink from Martin Gray, Griffin made a break across the six yard box. Mit’s delivery had to be inch perfect, and Griff’s near post header header flew in via a deflection off his marker. A simple set piece executed by two players who know each others game. The bad news was that this finally stirred EG into life, and they scrambled a reply five minutes later. With still 20 odd minutes remaining, Swans resolution would be severely tested. Bridle, Simpson, Long and Bradshaw remained steadfast though, and got something in the way of everything. Almost. There were two major alarms – first, a low cross from the left arrived at the feet of a striker 3 yards out, but Elliott somehow diverted the shot wide with his foot. An incredible save to deny what seemed a certain goal. Soon after Gary was just a spectator as a long range rocket thudded against his crossbar – Longy as ever reacted first to the rebound. Any lingering doubts were put to bed five minutes from time, when Wasps giant centre half lost his rag and hurled the ball at Sam Witherden's head, before launching a four-letter tirade at the ref. Either would have probably produced a red card on its own, together it was guaranteed. From there Swans got home in comfort.

Difficult to single anybody out here as all eleven put everything into this. The two young wingers got through some serious work, the two old full backs never gave an inch. Long and Wilby were so composed under pressure, as was Gray, who must surely now stay in central midfield having been shunted around the park every week up to now. Ayres was excellent in the first half, if he can gain the fitness to match his instincts he has a lot to offer. Gary made THAT save. But arguably pick of the lot was Tom Bradshaw. For a 17 year old centre back to mark a proven Div 1 no.9 was some ask, but he barely gave him a kick. Finally, perhaps the boss is due a rare pat on the back - the tactics and approach were spot on, and carried out to a tee. Well done all. Same commitment and character next week please.

Sorry its turned into such a long report. But I suppose we didn’t finish until 5 past 5, so clearly it was a long game.

TEAM : Elliott ; Bridle, Long, Bradshaw, Simpson ; Cook, Gray, Wilby, Ayres (Witherden), Walshe (Beaumont) ; Griffin

click here to read the EG website's version of events

Tye'd Up

Saturday 17th February – SCFL Div 2 – Storrington 2 Peacehaven 3

A funny old game this one, but ultimately the same result as Swans crashed to a fourth consecutive odd-goal league defeat. This time the home side came out firing for quarter of an hour, and finished the game piling on the pressure, but for an hour or so in between the visitors could have (and almost did) run away with it. They probably did enough to merit the three points in this period, although I don’t think anybody would have argued if Swans had grabbed an equaliser at the death. Particularly given the circumstances surrounding the Tye’s second goal, right on the half-time whistle.

Jim Everett had a solid game covering for the absent Gary Elliott, and he parried a header towards his left hand upright, where it was prodded home, somewhat sheepishly, by a striker who was in an offside position by some 5 yards or so. Alarmingly, no flag came, enraging the Swans players. To the referees credit, he consulted his assistant, giving him the chance to rectify a clear error, but he was having none of it, so it was 2-1 at half time. A minute into the restart things went from bad to worse when a patched up defence allowed the simplest of free-headers from a free kick on the half way line. And after that Swans were indebted to a couple of fine saves from Everett, and some poor finishing, to keep them from caving in completely. But when Martin Gray’s deflected free-kick was turned in by the returning Ramin Jarvand on 75 minutes, Swans were rejuvenated and pushed hard for an equaliser. But despite several scrambles in front of the Peacehaven goal, they couldn’t get one.

Things had looked so promising earlier when a simple move brought Swans a fine goal only five minutes in. Andrew Wilby, who has slotted back into the front side seamlessly after a long absence, sent Steve Tasker clear down the right, and the wing man’s cross was inch perfect for Dan Griffin to head home from 6 yards. Swans briefly threatened more, Jarvand and Tasker both going close, until they were pegged back on 24 minutes. They were a little unfortunate here as well, as Gray got back well to make a last ditch tackle, only to see his half-block send the shot looping around the advancing Everett. By the time Swans got back on track, the game was pretty much gone.

After looking solid at the back and blunt up front in recent weeks the opposite was true here. But if Swans can get both elements of their play functioning at the same time, a turnaround in results will soon follow.

TEAM : Everett ; Bridle (Bradshaw), Long, Gray, Simpson (Cook) ; Tasker, Wilby (Ayres), Norris, Matthews ; Griffin, Jarvand

Lyons-Maid To Work

Tuesday 6th Feb - SCFL Div 2 - Pagham 2 - 1 Storrington

Storringtons first midweek run out of the year saw them travelling to the west of the county with a trip to league leaders Pagham, not the most considerate planning from the County League's fixtures department. A nice looking home match in front of a decent crowd for Pagham but for some Storrington players it made for a 16 hour day from leaving for work in the morning to getting home after the match. Despite this, The Swans gave a very good account of themselves and if they had come away with a point, there would have been little for their hosts to complain about. The SFC statistician reports that this was the twentieth different back four permutation in twenty four matches this season as Matt Bridle came in at right back, Jon Simpson returned at left back and Martin Gray moved inside to replace Andy Long alongside James Blaydon in the centre of defence.

After the humiliating home defeat to Wealden less than two weeks ago, Russell Penticost's side had shown a considerable improvement against Seaford on Saturday only to lose to the only goal of the match. They showed further improvement at Nyetimber Lane and from the outset were competing for every first and second ball with Pagham. The league leaders play very good attacking football with strikers and midfielders all playing flowing pass and move football. Storrington had their work cut out to counter this but were getting a foothold in the game when Pagham opened the scoring. Just a minute or so after the ball had appeared to strike a Pagham defenders ourstretched hand as he challenged Dan Griffin in the home side's penalty area, Storrington conceded a penalty at the other end. A raid down the right flank from the hosts saw Frangou surge into the penalty area and as Simpson tracked him back and prepared to make his challenge he was unfortunate that his foot inadvertently clipped the strikers ankle and brought him down. The penalty was expertly dispatched giving Gary Elliott no chance in the Swans goal. The home supporters expected the flood gates to open but to their credit, Storrington stayed in the match with Gray and Blaydon repelling most of what was thrown at them and Andy Wilby getting through some good protective work in front of the back four. They couldn't prevent the second goal though when a swift Pagham break made it 2-0. Slightly typically of Storringtons form of late it was another mistake that lead to the second goal with possession given away on the half way line as Griffin dropped deep, looking to create something going forward. With men already committed to the attack, The Swans were exposed as a midfield runner was put clean through. Elliott did well to push the shot away to the right but Wimble was first to the rebound and made it 2-0. Surely now the visitors would buckle and Pagham would have a stroll for the remaining hour. Not so. The third goal of the match came from the side in blue as they pulled themselves back into the match just before half time. Rob Norris was fouled just inside his own half and quickly got up to roll the free kick short to Dan Griffin who in turn spread play to Matt Bridle. Bridles probing pass down the right flank picked out Sam Matthews. The youngster has made a positive impact since coming into the side for the Wealden embarrassment and has played a key part in creating both of Storringtons last two goals. Having played centre midfield and left midfield in the last two matches, he played just off Griffin on this occassion and looks suited to the role. Picking up the ball in the inside right channel he held off the attentions of his marker before driving a low ball across the six yard box. Steve Tasker made up the ground to score at the back post. It was the sort of goal that was Taskers trademark during the Division 3 title winning season but he has suffered as much as the rest of the attacking players at the club from the fact that Storrington have struggled all season to put opposition defences under consistent pressure. There was enough time for the referee to turn down another convincing shout for handball in the penalty area before half time and Penticosts men turned round still very much in the match.

The second half followed the pattern of the second half of the first half as Pagham played the more attactive, fast paced, flowing football but Storrington refused to lay down. Elliott was rarely troubled apart from one late looping header onto the top of the cross bar but equally, The Swans failed to call the Pagham keeper into action on a regular basis. Several good spells of pressure lead to three free kicks in very dangerous areas around the Pagham area and with Bridle and Gray in the side, Storrington probably had the two best strikers of a football in the club available to call on. Bridle smashed one effort into the wall whilst Grey was unable to keep his two efforts down. Pagham survived the scares to pick up three more points as they march towards Division 1. Storrington were left to reflect on a credible performance but ultimately one that didn't bring any points in their quest to move into the top half of the table. Surely the same effort and application at home to Mile Oak on Saturday would see a return to winning ways. It is hoped that Penticost might have the luxury of being able to name an unchanged line up but that will depend on how Dave Cook recovers from a badly gashed shin having been on the receiving end of an over zealous challenge from the Pagham left back.

TEAM: Elliott, Bridle, Gray, Blaydon, Simpson (Johnson), Cook, Norris, Wilby, S Tasker (J Tasker), Matthews, Griffin

Where Have All The Players Gone?

Saturday 3rd Feb - SCFL Div 2 – Storrington 0 Seaford 1

A scrappy, crappy mid-table clash saw Swans dwindling new year form continue, with this messy defeat.

TEAM : Everett ; Simpson, Tucker, Watton, Bradshaw ; Tasker, McMichael, Ayres, Scott ; Jarvand, Taylor

Actually that wasn’t the side at all, but one made up of players unavailable through injury, illness or other commitments this week. The half-dozen changes that are forced on the Swans each week are making progress very difficult. That, coupled with a desperately (and, I should add, unavoidably) bumpy pitch ensured that there wasn’t much in the way of attractive football on show. Seaford sensibly adopted a route one approach, and had the better of the first half; Swans battled away and were on top in the second, but it did appear to have 0-0 written all over it.

Until the hour mark, when the visitors found a suitably scruffy winner. No surprise in that it came from a corner, as Seaford were strong on set-pieces. This one was whipped in to the near post, half cleared, returned with interest, parried on to the top of the crossbar by Gary, before dropping for a bevy of red shirts to bundle home from a yard. Swans did respond – Martin Gray’s long ball found Dan Griffin who shot wide from a tight angle, the same two combined only for Griff’s looping header to drift just wide from Gray’s cross, and Cooky put Sam Matthews clear only for his first time effort to float inches over. Then Seaford should have wrapped it up, when a free kick travelled directly to an unmarked forward in the six-yard box, only for him to boot it into the housing estate instead of the net.

Swans threadbare side never gave up, and those drafted in at short notice should be commended. James Blaydon had a good game on his Swans debut at centre half. Down the left Andy Beaumont and Sam Matthews toiled hard, each starting only his second senior match. And Andy Wilby was his dependable self in midfield despite not having started a first team game since April 2005. All of them have earned another crack – that it will probably come on Tuesday night away at league leaders Pagham is their own daft fault :O)

TEAM (really this time) : Elliott ; Gray, Beaumont, Long, Blaydon ; Cook, Wilby (Nolan), Norris, Matthews ; Griffin, Walshe (King)

Ten Out Of Ten

Saturday 27th January – Division Two Cup – Storrington 1 Wealden 5

Swans have reserved some of their feeblest efforts for this opposition in the last 18 months or so, and the omens weren’t great again here as a threadbare and rusty squad took on one of the best equipped outfits in the division. To be fair, Wealden have been equally as inactive as the Swans recently – both sides were playing only their second game since Boxing Day – but one suspects that attitudes to training and preparation at The Oaks are somewhat different to those at the Rec. In the event, Swans did their best to compete in the first half, but surrendered meekly in the second. The result also extends their run of cup defeats into double figures, covering two full seasons.

An unfamiliar line-up saw Simmo drafted into central defence with Mitten filling in at right-back. 17 year-old Sam Matthews made his debut alongside the skipper, while lucky old Walshey was pressed into service on the left-wing. Despite all this, the home side went at it gamely, and were rewarded with a good goal after 20 minutes. Matthews wriggled past two challenges to release Walshe, whose cross found Dan Griffin at the far post, and the fit-again forward checked back inside his man before drilling home a left-foot shot from 10 yards. Cracks were already appearing at the other end though, and a quarter of an hour later the lead had become a deficit. Gary Elliott will have nightmares about the equaliser, but in all honesty there wasn’t a lot he could do about it – a wayward cross appeared to present no danger, but bounced up over his shoulder like a rugby ball as he stooped to collect it, leaving the lurking Wes Tate with an unchallenged tap-in. Then a direct free-kick 20 yards out took a wicked deflection and spun into the corner giving the young keeper no chance.

Though they were two pretty flukey goals, Swans could scarcely argue that Wealden didn’t merit the lead at the break. To recover from such a double blow of misfortune would take serious character, grit and determination, and to be honest the home side never looked as though they had the wherewithal to do so. Wealden were 5-1 up by the 70 minute mark, the outstanding Tate completing a hat-trick, and the ease with which a succession of chances were created was an embarrassment to the Swans. It seemed as though the entire team had forgotten their most fundamental defensive duties as orange shirts appeared unmarked all over the pitch. To their credit, they stemmed the tide towards the end, and even had one or two opportunities of their own, but the game was long gone, and it must be hoped that lessons are learned in time for the return to league action next weekend.

The game was marred somewhat at the end by a nasty ankle injury to substitute Gil Taylor, on his Swans debut. Russell had understandably been delighted to sign the strong-running striker, but early indications are that his season may be over before it has even started. Hopefully we can get him back sooner than we think. It was a poor, unnecessary tackle, and the perpetrators giggly reaction to the yellow card it brought was immature and regrettable.

TEAM : Elliott ; Gray, Bradshaw(Tucker), Long, Simpson ; Cook(Taylor), Norris, Matthews(Nolan), Walshe ; Griffin, Jarvand

No Sweet Charity

Saturday 13th January – Brighton Charity Cup – Southwick 2 Storrington 1 aet

A tough work-out in this low key competition was just what the doctor ordered to shake off 3 weeks of inactivity. Southwick are much improved after their early season woes, and had also been fortunate enough to keep playing (not to mention training) regularly during the recent wet weather, and their superior fitness certainly told during the second hour of this encounter. Though a win would have been nice, the main thing here was to prepare for next week’s return to league action, and there is no doubt that Swans will be all the better for this game.

Actually, it was the weather itself that was the principal influence on the match. With a strong wind at their backs in the first half, Swans were the better side, and perhaps should have turned round with more to show for it than Chris Watton’s first senior goal, bundled in from one of a series of vicious Martin Gray corners. After the break the boot was on the other foot as the home side dominated, and they too should probably have scored more than the one goal. But extra-time it was, and when the winner came in the 105th minute, Swans were a spent force, and couldn’t make the most of their final turn with the conditions in their favour. They weren’t helped by a real ‘home’ ref – he gave the visitors nothing all afternoon, and both Wickers’ goals were a bit dodgy (a probable offside and a definite handball) – but Southwick were worthy winners, and missed a couple of sitters at the death to make it 3-1.

Gary Elliott was very good in goal again, and in front of him Tucker and Simpson defended whole-heartedly. The loss of both wide men was unfortunate, and left Swans with the odd combination of Bradshaw and Griffin in the wing positions, but both Tasker and Gray should be back next week. Griffin himself came through unscathed after a 7 week injury lay off, and Norris did likewise after what was hopefully a rather more pleasant 5 week break.

Team : Elliott ; Watton, Simpson, Long, Tucker ; Tasker (Bradshaw), Norris, Ayres, Gray (Walshe) ; Griffin, Jarvand

Santa's Mixed Bag

Xmas Holiday 2006 – SCFL Div 2

Storrington 2 Lancing 1
Storrington 0 Steyning 1

Much better than the seasonal debacle of last year, but Swans missed an opportunity on Boxing Day to move into 5th place. With the 3rd Xmas fixture a victim of the weather, we are now without a league game until 20th January, so that chance is gone for the time being. In actual fact, a draw may have been the fair result in both of these games, so a win and a loss leaves us a point better off than we might have been.

We played some neat football in the first half against Lancing. Walshey and Ramin combined very well up top, and Richard Ayres looked dangerous just behind as Swans adopted a 3-5-2 formation. Walshey twice forced good saves with first time strikes, and the outstanding Steve Tasker was also denied by the keeper. The goal came just before the break, Jarvand holding up well and laying off to Ayres who drove low into the net. It was 2-0 straight after the restart, Walshey’s jinking run curtailed by a fairly dopey hack, Mitten calmly rolling home the penalty. After that it was mostly Lancing. They got one back on the hour, but the defence held firm thereafter, and Gary in goal defied an injury to keep the visitors at bay. We were even treated to the bizarre sight of a returning Griff in a holding midfield role for the last ten minutes as the storm was ridden out.

So to Boxing Day, and the roles were very much reversed. Steyning were far more up for the game from the off. They scored after 10 minutes, inevitably through one of their ex-Swans, James Davis, after Swans fell asleep at a free kick. Cook, Ayres and Tasker, so effective 3 days earlier, couldn’t get involved, and only Yids, who worked tirelessly, really did himself justice. It was largely down to him that Swans reached the interval without further damage. The turning point came on the hour, when Tucks blotted an otherwise clean copybook with an unnecessary foul, adjudged inside the box by the similarly otherwise excellent ref. Gary dived to his left to superbly save Davis’ spot-kick, and from there Swans took the initiative. Ramin had three clear chances to equalise but it just wasn’t his day in front of goal. From one rebound Watton’s drive was brilliantly saved, from another Griff’s chip grazed the bar. The substitute then managed to head Ayres' cross stright back to him when unmarked beyond the far post. Swans really should have got something, but it wasn’t to be.

Positives included the solid understanding developing between Long, Tucker and Elliott, the contributions, albeit in patches, of youngsters like Bradshaw, Cook, Ayres and Walshe, and Mitten getting through 90 minutes twice in 4 days; he will be a growing influence in the new year. At the halfway point, the success of Swans season is in the balance. They sit in mid table, won seven, drawn three, lost seven. If they can consistently find their best form, a top half position should be within reach, and hopefully they can start by launching a cup run or two to boot.

TEAM : v Lancing : Elliott ; Watton, Long, Tucker ; Cook, McMichael, Gray, Ayres (Griffin), Tasker ; Jarvand, Walshe

v Steyning : Elliott ; Bradshaw (Griffin), Watton (J.Tasker), Long, Tucker ; Cook (Beaumont), Gray, McMichael, Ayres, Tasker ; Jarvand

Hot Ayres

Saturday 16th December – SCFL Div 2 – Sidlesham 1 Storrington 1

A draw at Sidlesham is never a bad result, and to come from behind to secure a share of the spoils represents a respectable afternoon’s work for a depleted Swans line-up. We took a bit of a battering in the first half-hour, but Richard Ayres’ first senior goal hauled us off the ropes early in the second half, and towards the end there were a couple of chances to pinch all three points. It has to be said that this would have been harsh on the hosts after their initial dominance.

With the skipper busy with his brown-suited nuptials, Andy Long led the side out for the first time, and with Griff still recovering from an ankle injury Walshey continued up front after his fine display last week. Wingers Tasker and Cook were both waylaid by work on Saturday morning, so Martin Gray and Neil Scott stepped into the breach. The former was making his for start for almost 3 years, the latter raced to the ground with 10 minutes to spare before kick off to make his Swans debut. So with all this upheaval, it was no real surprise that Swans began on the back foot. Sidlesham made & missed a series of chances, and Gary Elliott made one or two crucial saves as none of the ten in front of him could get started. The home side also had two decent penalty claims waved away, and Swans appeared to have just about weathered the storm when they finally fell behind on 28 minutes. A scruffy old goal too, as a couple of opportunities to clear a left wing free kick were missed before it was emphatically swept home. Despite this, Swans continued to ease their way into the match, and their best moment of the half came when Scott beat his man and clipped an inviting cross to the far post. Gray seemed poised to head home until he was palpably flattened from behind, but, perhaps mindful of his leniency at the other end, the referee turned a blind eye. Still, Swans weren’t unduly upset to go in just a single goal behind.

After a quiet opening to the restart, the game turned on its head with the equaliser on the hour. A free kick just left of centre 40 yards out didn’t look especially promising, but Gray whipped in a wicked ball, and Ayres helped it into the corner with a deft glancing header. Sidlesham looked stunned to have been pegged back, and suddenly the blues were in charge. The back four started to overpower the tricky home front men, and Yids, quiet until now, began to run the midfield. Both wingers saw a great deal more of the ball, and from Gray’s super run and cross came Swans chance to win it. Jamie Tasker’s first touch after replacing Walshey gave him the opportunity, but he delayed a fraction too long before applying his second, and the keeper smothered his goal-bound effort. A couple more attacks looked threatening but fizzled out, and Swans had to settle for a point. They were pretty happy with that, and I think it was one that the second-half improvement probably merited.

TEAM : Elliott ; Bradshaw, Simpson, Long, Tucker ; Gray, McMichael, Ayres, Scott (Beaumont) ; Jarvand, Walshe (J.Tasker)

Cookie & Cream

Saturday 9th December – SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 2 St Francis Rangers 1

The upturn in Swans fortunes continued with the notable scalp of our old friends from the Hospital. Notable not only because the Saints would be a Div 1 side but for a ground grading technicality, having finished third last year, but also because of the way in which a clutch of Swans youngsters stamped their mark on proceedings. Half a dozen of this XI are under 23, and the vitality of the performance was both encouraging and exciting.

After a lively opening it was the visitors who took the early initiative, looking particularly dangerous down their right flank. It looked for all the world as though they had taken the lead ten minutes in, as a looping header arched towards the top corner, but Gary Elliott made an outstanding save to claw the ball away. And the significance of this was doubled soon after as Swans went in front. Steve Tasker burst down the inside left channel, and his cut back was adroitly turned in from 10 yards by Paul Walshe at the near post. An excellent goal, but one unfortunately copied by Saints not 2 minutes later to restore parity. Penticost astutely switched full-backs Simpson and Bradshaw – Simmo started to stem the flow of attacks down the visitors right, while Tom had a sound game at right-back, and Swans began to get on top. Tasker had an immediate chance to re-establish the lead but couldn’t get his shot away in the muddy goalmouth. Walshe again was on the end of a flowing move involving Ramin Jarvand and Richard Ayres, but saw his left-footer flash just over. Five minutes before half time, a similar passing movement saw Dave Cook release Ayres down the right, and when the low cross arrived Cook was there to volley neatly into the far corner for a terrific first senior goal.

A decent crowd anticipated a Saints onslaught after the break, but initially it was the home side who continued in the ascendancy. The link up play between four of those Cygnets - Cook, Ayres, Walshe and Jarvand – saw Swans regularly carve out presentable openings. Tasker may be the grand-daddy of this side at 33, but he had a cracking game too, and when he got on the end of Cook’s exquisite through ball, he was unlucky to see his well executed half-volley come back off the post. Inevitably though, Swans began to drop deeper to defend their lead, and the experienced quintet of Simpson, Tucker, Long, Gray and especially skipper Norris came to the fore in a rearguard action for the last quarter. Generally, Saints were kept at arms length, but when cracks appeared Elliott was in no mood to be beaten, with another terrific tip over. He also had to dive bravely amongst the boots several times, including once after a heart-stopping goalmouth scramble that seemed to last about 5 minutes. On the break, buoyed by an energetic cameo on debut from Jamie Tasker, Swans should have wrapped it up – Steve Tasker’s shot was well saved, Jarvand’s follow up somehow blocked on the line – but it was immaterial in the end.

Plenty to be optimistic about then, as we approach the busy festive period. For the first time, Walshe and Ayres looked right at home at this level, and Griffin (ankle) and McMichael (ill) won’t get their shirts back without a fight. Elliott has found his feet, and is looking more and more like the fine goalkeeper he undoubtedly is. Cook, Tasker, Simpson and Tucker have all found their form as well, so although we stand in a very similar position to last December, we should be confident that the current curious blend of youth and experience will make a better fist of the second half of the season than we did last time round.

TEAM : Elliott ; Simpson, Bradshaw (Gray), Long, Tucker ; Cook, Norris, Ayres, S. Tasker ; Jarvand, Walshe (J.Tasker)

click here to read the Saints website's version of events

Heath Relief

Saturday 25th November – SCFL Div 2 – Broadbridge Heath 0 Storrington 2

Phew. After suffering a two-month stretch during which you wondered where the next point was coming from, Swans finally got back to winning ways by overcoming local rivals Broadbridge Heath. When Dan Griffin netted the clincher at the death, also bringing to an end a personal 9-game lean spell, the outpouring of relief was tangible as he was buried under a sea of screaming white-shirted nutters. An equally delighted Gill narrowly resisted the temptation to join the bundles.

It was a goal worthy of such celebration too, as Swans produced a breakaway from a corner to rival a couple of similar ones that have gone in at the wrong end lately. A resurgent Jon Simpson stabbed a loose ball away from his own 6-yard box to find Griffin, back helping out. He in turn saw Dave Cook making strides to his left. Cookie raced forward, then sent Ramin Jarvand clear down the right. When Jarvand fizzed a low ball across goal, Griff had arrived at the far post, and dived inches from the turf to bury his header from an acute angle. Quite where the 80 yards of pitch went following his previous contribution to the move I can’t begin to imagine. Perhaps there was a strong gust of wind.

It all came after a second half that had seen Swans mostly sitting deep, defending in numbers and attacking on the break (how many of our better results in the last year or two follow this pattern? Something to think about). Simmo and Tucker looked their old selves, alert to danger and strong in the tackle, while youngster Tom Bradshaw overcame a slightly nervous start to have a storming game at left back. Hopefully here is the solution to a position that has caused concern for as long as I can remember. Gary Elliott’s handling and kicking was first rate, and though Heath threatened sporadically from set-pieces, they never gave him a shot to save. He can be very satisfied with a first clean sheet since re-signing from Horsham.

Earlier, Swans had been the more dominant side in the first half. Griffin appeared to have put them in front from McMichael’s pass only to be ruled offside. When the lead duly arrived 25 minutes in, however, it was due in no small part to luck of a sort that has been conspicuously absent recently. A neat move ended with Jarvand laying a ball off to Rob Norris on the edge of the area. The skipper, who gave a stirring display in midfield, struck a decent left foot shot, but home keeper James McGrath looked to have it covered as he dived to his right. Yet somehow it squirmed under his body and rolled into the net. It was almost two soon after, when a speculative long range lob from Cookie (it looked for all the world like a cross, he claims otherwise, so we’ll give him the b.o.t.d – either way, he had an excellent game on his return to the first team fold) came back off the crossbar, and Griff’s follow-up from the narrowest of angles rolled along the goal-line and clipped the post.

So a change of style brought a change of luck. The old fashioned virtues of hard work, effort and team spirit were more in evidence here than the attractive football that has not always brought results this season, and this may be no bad thing as a muddy winter descends upon us. What also helped, without a doubt, was a noisy and enthusiastic band of supporters, as the II’s and III’s were rained off. Much appreciated by all the players, I can assure you.

TEAM : Elliott ; Simpson, Long, Tucker, Bradshaw ; Cook, Norris, McMichael(Gray), Tasker(Walshe) ; Griffin, Jarvand

Saturday 11th November - SCFL Div 2 - Saltdean 3 - 1 Storrington

In all honestly, the less said about this performance the better but in the interests of trying to shame Storringtons underperforming players into some sort of improvement, here follows an account of a new low point in what is turning into a massively disappointing campaign. Without a win since the 23rd of September and having exhausted all of the excuses - tricky fixtures, bad luck, bad refereeing - the trip to Saltdean, rock bottom and with just one win all season appeared to be the ideal fixture to rediscover some form and confidence and start the ascent back up the table. The early season thoughts of challenging for promotion after starting the season with a run of five matches unbeaten had disappeared as The Swans slipped down the table and out of three cup competitions. For the second consecutive weekend, Russell Penticost took his side to the East Sussex coast and for the second week running he went with his young wingers, Paul Walshe and Richard Ayres. Rob Norris returned in midfield meaning a return to left back for Paul McMichael. Jon Simpson switched back to right back with Steve Tasker unavailable. The hosts started the game as the better side, seemingly buoyed by having picked up four of their 5 point total in their previous three matches. The early pressure was all from Saltdean as they dominated in central midfield and attacked menacingly down both flanks with none of the visitors midfield or back four able to get any sort of grip on the match. It was something of a surprise then when The Swans took the lead. In a performance lacking any imagination or creativity at all, it was perhaps no surprise that the goal came from a long throw into the box. Norris flicked on and Dan Griffin then helped the ball on further. As Ramin Jarvand ran in to put the ball into the empty net he was blatantly shoved from behind and the penalty was awarded. It could be argued that the referee could have shown a red card but to pick fault with the officials would waste critical words better spent on the Storrington players. Paul McMichael stepped up and continued the Storrington spot kick curse with a feeble attempt to the keepers right. The Saltdean stopper could only parry the ball though and at least McMichael had the awareness to follow the ball in and ram home the rebound. Surely this was the lucky break that the struggling Swans needed, surely now their confidence would return, their spirits would be lifted and the passing game would return. Unfortunately not. The plucky hosts took the set back in their stride, stuck to their guns and continued to get the better of opponents who became increasingly clueless in possession and increasingly spineless when not in possession. Time after time, blue shirts were hassled out of possession, out fought and forced into errors. There is no doubt that Saltdean are a poor side. They were lucky not to be relegated last season and have been rooted to the bottom of the table since the start of this season. However, anyone watching this match would have instantly picked out Storrington as the side in danger of dropping into Intermediate football.

So it was no more than Saltdean deserved when they drew level and then went ahead shortly before the break. Firstly, another chapter in the defensive shambles that has haunted Storrington this season. A corner was delivered into the 6 yard box and neither the keeper or any of the eight blue shirts in the box made any real effort to put anything on the ball. A brief scramble resulted before the ball was fired home. 1-1. Just before half time, lowly Saltdean gave The Swans a lesson in how to attack down the flanks. Playing a 3-5-2 formation, they constantly got both of their fit, young wing backs into the opposition third as well as getting them back in their own third on the few occasions that Storrington threatened. For the second goal, a ball was chipped in behind The Swans right back position, the Saltdean wide man raced onto it and fired a great ball into the back of the box. As the ball dropped, the right wing back ran onto it with not a blue shirt in sight and headed into the empty net. Only a brilliant save from Elliott prevented the visitors going further behind in the first half. As the Storrington players made their way into the changing room for the break, the body language said it all. Shoulders hunched, heads down, they new they were turning in a shameful performance but not one of them seemed capable of showing the will and desire to turn it around. Dean Leaver replaced Paul Walshe for the second half as Penticost tried to counter the hosts attacking prowess down the flanks but before a blue shirt had made a meaningful touch on the ball it was 3-1. There was more questionable defending as the Saltdean centre forward dinked the ball over a couple of half hearted challenges before finishing brilliantly to leave Elliott with no chance. Having not scored more than one goal in a league match since the start of September a Storrington come back seemed unlikely but a couple of half chances came their way as they huffed and puffed without every producing any quality. All the while, Saltdean looked just as likely to add to their own tally as The Swans looked more and more like they just wanted to hear the final whistle and get out of there. Norris and McMichael were booked when their frustration boiled over in rash challenges and Griffin was also shown a yellow card as he took his frustration out by way of a verbal assault on the referee. The hapless Swans finally had a clear cut opportunity with about 15 minutes remaining. Norris dispossesed the Saltdean centre half and fed Griffin in the box. Swans followers have seen Griffin tuck away this sort of chance for fun over the past four or five years but theres nothing like a goal drought to eat away at a strikers confidence and he hit his shot straight at the keeper who parried the ball into the path of the onrushing Norris. His header was bound for the back of the net before a Saltdean defender back pedalled and flicked it over the bar with his head. That was the last time that Storrington looked like getting back into the match and at the final whistle they couldn't get off the pitch quick enough, seemingly feeling suitably embarrassed with their efforts.

So where now for Penticosts side. They are on a terrible run and theres no doubt about it, this is relegation form. The management, the players and the spectators can speculate on the reasons for as long as they like, the reality appears to be that there is just not enough quality in the side to overcome even the weaker Division 2 sides. Penticost and Trevor Paske have either got to turn this bunch of players around and get them playing with more quality and comittment or bring in some fresh faces to replace some of the current squad.

TEAM: Elliott, Simpson (Beaumont), Tucker, Long, McMichael, Ayres (Bradshaw), Norris, K Bridle, Walshe (Leaver), Jarvand, Griffin

No Fireworks For Swans

Saturday 4th November – SCFL Div 2 – Peacehaven 3 Storrington 1

Russell Penticost rang the changes here in an attempt to break the losing sequence that has plunged Swans into the bottom half. Steve Tasker dropped back to right back to give Paul Walshe an overdue start on the wing, which also meant a switch to the left for Simmo. In front of him, Richard Ayres came in for a senior debut after impressing in the reserves last week. Rob Norris’ absence meant a chance for Yids in his favoured central midfield berth, while Ben Reilly took the captain’s armband on his farewell appearance. But while all this produced a decent enough performance, in the end it was the same old story.

The Swans had slightly the better of a goalless first half. The two young wingers showed some nice touches, while McMichael and Bridle began to stamp their authority on the midfield. The latter fired in two or three efforts from range, and Walshe was only just too high when he followed suit. Griffin made a strong run once each down either flank, but both times Jarvand couldn’t quite convert the cut-back. Then Ayres was foiled by a last ditch tackle. At the other end Long and Reilly looked commanding against a sharp front pair, although Swans were a bit lucky to get away with a free header at a corner, which sailed wide. Gary Elliott parried a nasty effort which bounced right in front of him, but was otherwise untroubled. Swans may have been a little miffed only to go in at 0-0.

The second half began in similar vein. Yids near post volley from a corner was booted off the line, while Griff should have at least hit the target when he headed Longy’s free kick over the bar. And Swans were made to pay on the hour, annoyingly straight from another attacking corner. Within 10 seconds of the kick the ball was in the visitors net after a swift breakaway and powerful finish from Smith. An immediate change to 3-5-2 didn’t really work, and perhaps heads dropped a little, as suddenly it was all Peacehaven. The second soon arrived as Smith again poked home a goal that it seemed half a dozen of his team mates were queuing up for, and Swans were suddenly staring at a heavy defeat. But there was another twist, as with ten minutes left Swans grabbed what had seemed an unlikely lifeline. Impressive sub Tom Bradshaw played a neat one-two with Griff before firing across the six yard box. Ramin was in the right place at the right time and tapped in his 6th of the season at the far post. The final few minutes saw a series of near things at either end as Swans threw men forward, but they couldn’t force an equaliser, and the outcome was put beyond doubt by a third Peacehaven goal in injury time, as once again Elliott was left exposed and the home side had several men over.

So that’s four successive defeats, but again, the blues played some decent stuff here. A change of luck in either penalty area is all that’s required. Next week they visit basement boys Saltdean, where they must make sure there are no such excuses.

TEAM : Elliott ; Tasker (Leaver), Long, Reilly, Simpson ; Walshe (Tucker), McMichael, Bridle, Ayres (Bradshaw) ; Griffin, Jarvand

Lucky Lancing?

Saturday 21st October – SCFL Div 2 – Lancing 2 Storrington 1

For the first time in a sequence that has seen only one win in eight matches, Swans could claim that they really deserved better. Having largely bossed the proceedings throughout, they were undone both by bad luck, and by the lack of confidence that often creeps in after a losing run. This manifested itself in a missing killer instinct at one end, and some shaky defending at the other.

After a lethargic opening from both teams, the visitors began to make use of the perfect Culver Road pitch. Kris Bridle started to pull the strings on his return to the midfield, several times releasing Steve Tasker on the right. Dan Griffin twice went close with headers after crosses from this source. The front two linked up appreciably better than of late, and from Griffin’s flick Ramin Jarvand did will to hold off the last defender only to volley straight at the keeper. Then Paul McMichael sent a curler just wide on a raid forward from left back. So all was looking promising as half time approached, until Swans first dose of misfortune. Andy Long, on the occasion of his 100th Swans appearance, was forced to retire with a hamstring injury, and in hindsight, this was the turning point of the match. A defence that had been watertight to that point suddenly looked vulnerable, and in injury time it was breached. The offside trap had been in slick working order all afternoon, but suddenly two Lancing strikers had half the pitch to themselves as Swans pushed up too far. Annis made no mistake and there wasn’t even time for the blues to kick-off.

The visitors were soon on terms though, when Griffin dispossessed a defender and drew the goalie, before slipping it to Jarvand to pop into the empty net. Swans pressed forward, anticipating more, but no sooner were they level than they were behind again. A Lancing counter-attack found Swans undermanned at the back, and a pinpoint right-wing cross found Leete unmarked at the far-post. His header hit the post, but Lady Luck gave Swans another kick in the gonads as the ball rebounded into the net off the back of the diving Gary Elliott. With the best part of half an hour to go it wasn’t terminal yet though, and Swans attacked again. On 70 minutes they seemed to have equalised, Tasker’s cross nodded down by Griffin for the onrushing Jarvand to convert from 3 yards. The offside flag that chalked this one off was dubious at best. Then sub Dean Leaver cracked a tremendous twenty yard volley that thudded back off the inside of the upright. Jarvand was first to the rebound, but the ball was blocked on the line. That was the last of the visitors clear-cut chances, and in the last 10 minutes Swans were indebted to Elliott for one-on-one saves on more than one occasion as they threw men forward. In fact, both sides could easily have had 5 by the end, but 2-1 it stayed.

While Swans have been beaten by some decent teams in recent weeks, they really should have won this one against a pretty average outfit. But, to borrow a footballers favourite cliché, at the end of the day it just wasn’t meant to be.

TEAM ; Elliott ; Simpson, Long (Palmer), Reilly, McMichael ; Tasker (Walshe), Norris, K.Bridle, Bradshaw (Leaver) ; Griffin, Jarvand

Lions Tame Swans

Saturday 14th October – SCFL Div 2 – Storrington 0 Pagham 2

Swans slipped further into mid-table after this tame defeat to a youthful Pagham side, which returned to the top of the league after a seventh win out of eight. While the Lions were never entirely dominant, their neat passing and movement always looked threatening, and merited the victory. When Storrington managed to apply some pressure, they couldn’t fashion a clear opportunity, and rather worryingly never really looked like scoring.

Except once, a minute after going behind, when Swans could legitimately claim that they were robbed of a route back into the game. Dan Griffin latched on to a misplaced pass in the visitors defence, only to be scythed down when clean through on goal. That the foul produced just a yellow card was inexplicable, and wasting the free-kick hardly improved the home side’s mood. Other than this, a couple of well flighted Dean Leaver free kicks, and a couple of goalmouth scrambles were Swans best moments, but a finishing touch eluded them. Ramin Jarvand was very quiet, while Griffin now has just a single goal in his last 10 games.

Things aren’t quite right at the other end either, and two similarly scruffy goals, one halfway through each half, decided the outcome. Twice Gary Elliott, who played very well, made decent parries, only for the sharp Pagham forwards to react more quickly to the rebounds. The powerful Forden scored the first and made the second, and was an aerial menace all afternoon to a Swans back four which was notably short in stature. Perhaps more pertinent is the fact that in the 12th game of the season, Swans began with their 11th different combination of defenders. This time youth-teamer James Underwood came in for his full senior debut, and gave a battling performance.

So it seems all a bit doom & gloom at present, but it needn’t be. Swans still lie ninth, and have already had to play all of the top seven – nobody else can have had a tougher fixture list to begin their campaign. They have won 2, drawn 2 and lost 3 of these matches, which is not brilliant, but is by no means disastrous. On the evidence of what we’ve seen, there is very little to separate any of those seven, and on Swans good days they can certainly rank alongside them. The trick now is having those good days more often.

TEAM: Elliott ; Underwood(Witherden), Long, Reilly, Simpson ; Tasker, Norris, McMichael, Leaver ; Griffin, Jarvand

Bother At The Rotherfield

Saturday 7th October - SCFL Division 2 - Midhurst 3 - 0 Storrington

The Swans good start to the season continued to fall away with this comprehensive defeat at Midhurst. After a run of 5 matches without defeat put them in the top 3 by early September, its now just one win in the last six for Russell Penticosts side including exits from three cup competitions. Defeats against Selsey and Hailsham in cup action are no disgrace, especially as the latter required a late extra time winner but this capitulation to Midhurst was the low point of the season so far. With Midhurst never an easy place to visit with the hosts always up for a battle, vociferous local support and the Rotherfield slope to contend with, this was never going to be a walk in the park. It was clear that The Swans were going to have to start the match better than they have done on most occassions this season where they have made a habit of going a goal behind - or two goals behind in the case of the visit of Westfield last week - before starting to play. The hosts chose to kick down the slope first and started as the sharper side. Norgate was a handful for the new look Swans back four from the outset and Midhurst were also quick and tricky down both flanks. With Brian Glover and Adam Palmer both unavailable from the previous weeks line up, Jon Simpson returned at right back with Ben Reilly coming in at centre half. Former Arundel man Norgate has a good all round game with strength, height, pace and good feet and after the visitors had absorbed a good deal of pressure it was the powerful number 9 who opened the scoring on the half hour mark. Controlling a throw into the penalty area he showed excellent close control and strength but was assisted by some half hearted defending as he jinked his way through before firing past Gary Elliott from a slight angle.

Elliot had to be at his best to prevent his team from going further behind just minutes later when he saved at point blank range to divert the ball behind. Midhurst continued to have the best of the remainder of the half as Storrington struggled to get into the game. When the Storrington midfield did manage to get the better of their opponents they were consistently frustrated by the sight of the linesmans flag, seemingly erroneously on at least one occasion. When the Swans chose to go with a more direct approach down the middle they were thwarted by the excellent Stuart Day who turned in the kind of performance that he'd hinted he was capable of in a Swans shirt last season. Even so, the match could have been all square at half time as Penticosts men finally threatened the goal in the final minutes of the half. Dan Griffin went on a trademark run into the box but was thwarted by a last ditch tackle and after a succession of corners, an inswinging Dean Leaver delivery was headed against his own post by a 'Hurst defender. The equaliser didn't come though and Storrington went in at half time knowing they were going to have to repeat the second half improvements that had won them matches against Seaford, Southwick, Mile Oak and Crawley Down. The immediate signs in the second period were that they would do just this as straight away they piled on the pressure down the hill. Day put a foot wrong for the only time all afternoon and was dispossessed in the centre of the pitch. Kristian Bridle pounced onto the loose ball and put Ramin Jarvand through in the inside left channel. As he closed in on goal, Jarvand looked for his strike partner on the back post but his pass was just slightly overweighted and if a full length Griffin couldn't reach it with his outstretched leg, nobody was going to. Then Kris Bridles header was tipped over the bar by the diving keeper as Penticosts half time team talk appeared to have done the trick. The one sided battering of the oppositions goal that had been the trademark of recent second half Swans performances looked on the cards again but in reality, this was as close as they came to getting back into the match. Midhurst rode the storm and although Storrington had much more of the game than in the first half, they were always vulnerable on the break as they went in search of the equaliser. It appeared to be one of those days where they would never score and the wind was finally knocked out of The Swans sails when Gary Elliott couldn't hold onto a cross and the loose ball was easily tucked away. Penticost made three changes, introducing the youth of Paul Walshe and the impressive James Underwood on his first team debut, and the experience of Martin Gray but it was all to no avail and Norgate fittingly had the final say. By this stage Andy Long was one on one with the Midhurst striker and when a hopeful long ball cleared his head, Norgate was left to power down on Elliotts goal and fire the ball into the bottom corner to cap a fine individual display.

This was the first match since the opening fixture of the season at Seaford where Storrington had failed to put together any sustained spells of pressure or good football and that will be of concern to Penticost. He is still hampered by having to reshuffle the back four on an almost weekly basis but there has been continuity to the selection in midfield and up front and he will hope that this lifeless performance and heavy defeat will provide the spur that his players need for the visit of early pace setters Pagham next Saturday. Pagham went down 6-1 at Tunbridge Wells in the FA Vase on Saturday but prior to that they had strung together three consecutive 4-0 away victories so a similar performance from Storrington as they turned in at Midhurst will be asking for trouble.

TEAM: Elliott, Simpson (Underwood), Long, Reilly, McMichael, Tasker (Gray), Norris, Bridle, Leaver (Walshe), Griffin, Jarvand

Concentrating On The League Again

Saturday 30th September – RUR Cup 2nd Round – Storrington 2 Westfield 2 (Westfield win 5-4 on penalties)

Well, Swans won’t get much further in a cup than this without winning a match – a first round bye and a second round shoot out – but the result extends their recent cup record to nine consecutive defeats. While I think we would all swap this sort of game for 3 points next week, it would still be nice to have a bit of a run in something, but it wasn’t to be. After an exciting game that could have gone either way, Dan Griffin and Paul Walshe were the unlucky men in the penalty competition, meaning that expertly taken kicks from Brian Glover, Paul McMichael, Kris Bridle and Steve Tasker counted for nothing.

An explosive first ten minutes saw action at both ends. Gary Elliott came out bravely to deny the dangerous Jones, then Bridle’s super through ball put Ramin Jarvand clear only for his finish to come back off the post. But as the game settled down it was the visitors who took control, and by the half hour mark they had deservedly built a two-goal advantage. Swans were guilty of some slack defending on both occasions and were punished by neat finishes from Clarke and Smith. The blues just couldn’t get going, until 5 minutes before half time, when a 30 yard pearler from Dean Leaver thudded against the crossbar. This had the effect of an alarm call, and by the break the Swans were level. A super move down the right ended with Jarvand’s ball into Griffin on the edge of the area. The striker neatly backheeled into the path of the onrushing McMichael, and Yids responded with a delightful first-time chip that went in off the underside of the bar. Within a minute it was 2-2, this time Tasker the provider, as his pull back was met by Jarvand twelve yards out. Ramin didn’t quite catch it right, but the shot bounced awkwardly in front of the diving Bourne, and sneaked over the keeper’s hand to find the corner.

The momentum was now with the home side, and for 20 minutes into the restart they looked strong favourites to wrap the game up, but a combination of bad luck and dogged defending kept them at bay. Bridle had a shot beaten away by Bourne while Glover, who was influential raiding upfield from right-back, also saw a stinging effort saved. When he got forward again, his low cross seemed perfect for Leaver to finish at the far post, only for the left-winger to be denied by an incredible sliding block on the line from Clarke, the Westfield centre-forward! It was that kind of game. Gradually the visitors clawed their way back, and for the final quarter the pressure was all on the Swans goal. Elliott twice saved well, and Tasker made a brilliant goal-line block of his own. So into an extra half hour we went, and the game swung back in the Swans favour. McMichael was denied by the woodwork, Jarvand by the keeper and Griffin by a last ditch tackle. And right at the death Adam Palmer had to make two similar interventions to prevent a last gasp Westfield winner. So to those penalties, which saw Westfield prevail, and good luck to them in the next round. Swans needn’t be too upset – aside from the first half-hour they played pretty well, although perhaps it could be said that everybody was in better form going forward than they were going backwards. This could equally be said of Westfield as well though – as I said, it was that kind of game.

TEAM : Elliott ; Glover, Long, Palmer, McMichael ; Tasker, Norris, K.Bridle, Leaver(Walshe) ; Griffin, Jarvand

click here to read the Westfield view of this game

Home Time

Saturday 23rd September – SCFL Div 2 – Storrington 3 Crawley Down 1

Swans came from behind once again on Saturday to record an overdue first home win of the campaign against winless, managerless Crawley Down. Unchanged for the first time, the home side were slow out of the blocks, and it took a change of formation at the break to get them to what was ultimately a comfortable victory.

Yet another sweltering afternoon was hardly what the doctor ordered, and Swans looked suitably sluggish in the heat during the opening exchanges. Down were the more menacing team, and took the lead in contentious circumstances. Gary Elliott couldn’t cling on to an up and under, and after a bit of a scramble, a visiting striker shunted the ball goalwards. Longy safely got his midriff in the way, and although there were inevitable appeals for handball, the referee was well positioned and correctly waved play on. However on seeing a distant linesman’s flag, the man in black pointed to the spot. The fact that their was no card for Longy enhanced the suspicion that he knew he’d made a ricket. Saunders confidently dispatched the kick. Swans should have been on terms within a minute, but after Rob Norris combined well with Ramin Jarvand, the skipper couldn't find a fitting finish. After that the ref further angered the home side by missing a clear trip on Dan Griffin, as he ran on to Jarvand’s flick. The centre-forward tried to keep going, but could only shin his shot well wide as he fell. After that, the visitors twice spurned decent opportunities to double the hosts half-time woes.

A limping Simmo gave way to Chris Watton at the interval, with Paul McMichael pushing into midfield as Swans went to 3-5-2. The improvement was instantaneous as the home side began to pile the pressure on the Down goal. Dean Leaver cracked a volley just wide, Jarvand fired over, and the only surprise was that it was ten minutes before Swans were level. From one of what must have been a dozen second half corners, Watton returned the ball into the danger area, Jarvand had a swing and a miss, but Norris was there to find the bottom corner from twelve yards to open his season’s account. The next twenty minutes were one-way traffic, but the crucial second goal was a while in coming. In fact there was concern that Swans storm was blowing itself out, until with a quarter of an hour to go Kris Bridle jinked into penalty area and chipped an inviting ball to the far post, where Jarvand arrived on cue to net with a powerful downward header. That was pretty much game, set and match, as Long, Palmer and Watton were in complete control at the back, but the icing on the cake arrived 5 minutes from time. Jarvand, invigorated by his goal, pounced on a poor clearance, surged into the box and found McMichael with a neat inside pass. Yids drove his finish precisely under the advancing keeper, satisfying Penticost’s pre-match request for goals from midfield, and sending Swans back up to 3rd in the table.

TEAM : Elliott ; Simpson(Watton), Long, Palmer, McMichael ; Tasker, Norris, K.Bridle(Joiner), Leaver(Walshe) ; Griffin, Jarvand

Piper Calls The Tune

Saturday 16th September - Sussex County League Div 2 - Storrington 0 - 2 Wealden

The Swans were beaten for the first time in the league this season as in form Wealden came to The Recreation Ground. The fixtures hadn't been that kind to Storrington at the start of the season but they had come through it well so far, moving to third in the league and turning in two good performances, despite losing on both occassions, in cup competitions. This was another tough fixture and another keenly fought contest but the hosts were ultimately left to reflect on some wasteful finishing and two moments of class from Wealdens two outstanding players.

With Chris Watton away watching a heavily tattooed, former boyband, ego maniac in Milton Keynes, Paul McMichael slotted back into the back four. He might have chosen to stay in Lanzarote for another week if he'd known that he would have been coming up against surely the fastest player in the County League. McMichael coped admirably throughout most of the match but Wealden played to their strengths and got the ball out to Piper as often as they could. Dan Griffin had already struck a post from close range and there had already been a couple of near misses at the other end with balls fired across the face of the Storrington goal when Wealden drew first blood. Their jet heeled wide man set off in pursuit of a ball into the inside right channel. McMichael is one of the quicker players in the Storrington side but on this occasion came out second best as Piper moved through the gears. There were desperate appeals for offside as the ball was played into the six yard box to present Wealdens young centre forward with an easy tap in but the officials didn't come to the Swans rescue.

The goal seemed to jolt the Storrington back four back into the reliable form that has been their trademark this season and despite spells of pressure from the visitors, the Swans goal was rarely threatened throughout the remainder of the first half and most of the second. Penticosts men went in search of the equaliser and had a spell of sustained pressure of their own prior to the interval and into the second half. A number of good chances came their way with Dean Leaver somehow heading the ball back across the face of the goal when it was easier to nod it into the empty net at the back post. Griffin also got on the end of three inviting crosses and would normally have expected to tuck at least one away whilst Rob Norris couldn't keep his header down from another brilliant Leaver set piece. Having squandered several opportunities to draw level, Storrington then experienced one of those moments where you just have to acknowledge a near perfect strike. Perhaps Norris could have closed Wes Tate down quicker when the Wealden midfielder received a clearance from a corner 25 yards out and well to the left of goal but the execution of the shot that followed was so deadly that Gary Elliot in the Storrington goal had no chance as the ball curled perfectly into the top right corner of the goal. Penticost threw Martin Gray and Paul Walshe into the action to try and add some fresh impetus and Gray had Storringtons final chance of the match when the ball came through to him at the back post. Taking the ball first time, he tried to bend a shot back past the keeper but the Wealden stopper was equal to it, leaving Storrington to ponder what might have been had they been more clinical in front of goal.

TEAM: Elliot, Simpson, Palmer, Long, McMichael, Tasker (Walshe), K Bridle, Norris, Leaver (Gray), Jarvand, Griffin.

Leach Delivers Sucker Punch

Saturday 9th September – John O’Hara League Cup 1st Round – Storrington 0 Hailsham Town 1 aet

Here was a second chance in five days for the Swans to gauge their progress against unbeaten Div 1 opposition, and this time they began with a more balanced, if much changed (again) line-up. The re-signed Gary Elliott became the 5th goalkeeper already this season, while Adam Palmer replaced the injured Longy. The absence of McMichael and Matt Bridle meant a switch of flanks for Simmo, while Steve Tasker returned to the side at right back. They would have to deal with a certain Dan Leach, the teenage forward only released by Brighton & Hove Albion 3 months ago.

From the off it was clear that this would be a decent game - Hailsham are a young, vibrant team who look to play a neat passing style. Swans were undaunted though, and through an excellent work-rate, and plenty of skill of their own, they got into the game. Indeed, they could easily have taken the lead on two occasions midway through the half. First, from Dean Leaver’s right wing corner, Rob Norris won a header and Palmer poked the ball goalwards. Swans appeals that it had crossed the line were cut short by a whistle for the ubiquitous nothing foul on the goalkeeper. Then when Tasker hoisted a cross to the far post, Dan Griffin nodded back across goal for Ramin Jarvand to head home. This time a most unlikely offside flag saved the visitors. At the other end, Palmer and Chris Watton were in top form and there were few alarms – Elliott grabbed a low shot at the second attempt, and his handling from a number of corners was exemplary. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Hailsham having marginally the upper hand, but being frustrated by the home defence. In midfield Swans were excellent as well, with Kris Bridle outstanding, always available, never wasting a ball. Norris had his best game yet, finding the energy to break forward several times, seeing one promising effort blocked and heading a corner just wide. Defenders Watton and Simpson also had attempts on the Stringers goal. But a clearcut chance never came for either side, and after Swans heroically defended a series of late corners, it was extra-time.

That chance seemed to have arrived early in the first period, when the home offside-trap failed for once, leaving Leach with half the pitch to himself. But Elliott came to the rescue with an outstanding save as the forward tried to go round him. Swans lost Bridle at the break, and Simmo was also rested, having given a fine display despite suffering with illness. It seemed that the home side would overcome this to secure a well-earned replay until 5 minutes from the end. A tired looking defence made the fatal mistake of standing off too far, allowing Leach time to find the bottom corner from 15 yards.

A disappointing outcome maybe, but all 14 Swans should be pretty chuffed with their performance here. This was the best game of football at the Rec for a long time.

TEAM : Elliott ; Tasker, Watton, Palmer, Simpson(Bradshaw) ; Walshe(Beaumont), Norris, K.Bridle(Baker), Leaver ; Griffin, Jarvand

Anybody Know A Goalie?

Tuesday 5th September - Sussex FA Senior CUP - Selsey 4 - 1 Storrington

The Swans first cup outing of the season was an opportunity to improve on last seasons record of five cups entered, five first round exits. The opposition was Selsey away, hardly an ideal trip for a Tuesday night and one that meant that key men Steve Tasker and Ramin Jarvand were both unavailable. Neil Gledhill was also unavailable and with Gary Elliot somehow still not signed on by the club, a goalkeeping crisis meant that Andy Long was asked to try to repeat the heroics he produced as an emergency keeper at the same ground on the last day of last season. All of this meant that Penticost and Paske were able to give run outs to a few members of the squad who have warmed the bench so far. 18 year old Paul Walshe came in up front for Jarvand, Jon Simpson returned at right back with Matt Bridle in front of him and Gavin Bridle, Chris Johnson and Sam Witherden came onto the bench.

The match started in much the same way as most of the Swans matches so far this season as they initially looked to get behind the ball, working hard to close down the opposition and then gradually get their own game going. Selsey had the better of the opening exchanges but Storringon competed well in all the key areas and moved the ball about well themselves. Long had not really been troubled in goal when a suspiciously offside looking Brown tried to get onto a through ball. The ball appeared to have got away from him but as he went in to challenge the Swans keeper, the ball broke loose and the Selsey front man was able to walk the ball into an empty net. It was slightly harsh on the Swans who were handling everything that Selsey through at them although the diminutive but sharp Ridley was a constant threat. Walshe nearly got in a couple of times for Storrington and Dan Griffin had a sharp header saved when Paul McMichael picked him out with a teasing cross from the left. Dean Leaver also got in behind but chose to take the shot first time and fired it wide. It was whilst the visitors were having their best spell of the first half that Selsey scored again just before half time. Again it was a speculative through ball from deep that did the damage. By this point, the back four who were already missing Long had also lost Ben Riley to injury and were possibly still getting re-organised as Brown ran onto the pass and lifted a perfect lob over the onrushing Long.

Storrington needed a good start to the second period to have any chance of getting back into the match and sure enough, they were the better side immediately after the restart. When Rob Norris exchanged passes first with Griffin and then with Walshe before moving into the box, his shot lacked power but was perfectly placed towards the bottom corner until it was pushed around the post by the diving keeper. From the resulting corner, Griffin lost his man and powered a bullet header into the top corner. Game on. The Swans continued to push and the hosts were looking rattled. Another Leaver corner was met at the back post, this time by Norris but he couldn't quite direct his header and the danger was cleared. It would have taken a brave man to bet against a come back at this point but the wind was finally knocked out of the Storrington sails with another soft goal conceded to give Brown his hat-trick. There was no coming back this time and Ridley added a fourth to give Selsey a very flattering scoreline.

There was still time for controversy though as a Selsey defender somehow stayed on the pitch having deliberately rammed his elbow into the side of Norris's head in full view of the referee five yards away. The official somehow deemed the offence worthy of just a yellow card and further angered Storrington by denying Sam Witherden a penalty when he darted into the box late in the match before being clattered by two Selsey defenders. There were still plenty of positives to take from this match though. Paul McMichael turned in another good performance at left back and Paul Walshe was impressive on his first competitive start. Without the goalkeeper crisis and with a little more luck, Storrington would have run Selsey a lot closer. Its another tough cup assignment on Saturday as Division 1 Hailsham visit the Recreation ground. Penticost will be looking for another good performance to give his side a boost before they return to league business.

TEAM: Long, Simpson, Riley (G Bridle (Johnson))), Watton, McMichael, M Bridle, K Bridle, Norris, Leaver, Walshe, Griffin (Witherden)

Safe As Housey

Saturday 2nd September – SCFL Div 2 – Mile Oak 0 Storrington 2

The division’s match of the day saw early leaders Mile Oak provide surely the biggest threat thus far to Swans unbeaten record. A bit of tinkering was needed again in defence for the blues as Paul McMichael made his first start of the campaign at left back, while there was a debut between the sticks for veteran keeper Paul House. The next 90 minutes proved his to be a very astute signing.

Skipper Norris made the curious but, as it turned out, inspired decision to kick into the gale, and Swans spent the greater part of the first half on the back foot as the rain drove into their faces. House had to be off his line sharply in the opening minute to deny the prolific Paul Eaton, but after that Oak were largely limited to pot-shots from distance - one clipped the top of the bar, most flew harmlessly over. The new stopper also assuredly dealt with a series of corners and long throws, and the confidence spreading through the defence was clear to see. Swans attacked only fitfully, and would have been delighted to go in to the break on level terms, but were handed a big fillip late in the half. Dean Leaver found some space down the left and whipped a diagonal ball across the face of the box. It was met sweetly on the volley from twenty yards out, and sailed into the top corner – a lovely strike? Well yes, but one should probably note that it was backtracking Oak midfielder Jason Fleming who provided the exquisite finish, for one of the most spectacular oggys you could wish to see.

Defending a lead and attacking on the break has been a style that has suited Swans for some time, and so it proved again in the second half. With Ben Reilly doing an outstanding job on Eaton, and Andy Long continuing his fine form alongside, the home team had very little in the way of chances to add to their territorial advantage. Swans, in contrast, cut through regularly, and should have wrapped things up before an excellent move did the trick 15 minutes from time. McMichael, who looked very much at home in his new role, found Norris, who in turn played a through ball into Griffin’s path down the inside left channel. The striker sent a first time ball skidding across the 6 yard area for the onrushing Ramin Jarvand to power it home. It could have been the middle one of a quick-fire hat trick – having charged down a clearance 5 minutes earlier, Jarvand could only hit the post with the goal gaping, and soon after he lobbed wide when put through by Leaver. The diminutive forward is growing more and more threatening with each game. Griffin, Tasker and the excellent Kris Bridle might all have added to the tally as well. But fittingly the last word was Housey’s, as he defied a sore back (sustained when apparently trying to knock over the goalposts rather than let one in) to make a superb tip around the post in injury time, to preserve a richly deserved clean sheet.

TEAM : House ; Watton(M.Bridle), Reilly, Long, McMichael ; Tasker, Norris, K.Bridle, Leaver ; Griffin, Jarvand

Nothing In It

Saturday 26th August - SCFL Div 2 - Storrington 0 - 0 Lingfield

The scoreline at The Recreation Ground would suggest that the spectators were subjected to a dour bore draw but anyone who saw this game would confirm that not to be the case. With two of the early season front runners in action - Swans went into the match unbeaten in three and Lingfield with two wins out of two - it perhaps shouldn't come as a surprise that there was actually some entertaining football played in this encounter. Most of the visitors threatening moves went through front man Dan Gillard whilst Storrington carried a more varied threat with their wide men looking to create something for the front two and Kris Bridle continuing to impress in the centre of midfield. With every match that Bridle plays since his return to the front side, the loss of Shaun Hourigan back to Steyning looks more and more like a blessing in disguise. Whilst there can be no disputing the quality on the ball of last seasons player of the year, Hourigans critics would claim with some justification, that Bridle causes more damage to the opposition with his use of the ball and gets himself into positions where he can have more influence on the match. With captain Rob Norris emerging from a less than impressive first couple of weeks to the season, the midfield is starting to look capable of dominating and with Andy Long arguably the stand out player of the four matches so far at centre half, the spine of the team is looking strong.

The opening exchanges were fairly even but there was little in the way of openings at either end. Dean Leaver delivered an inviting cross into the box, Dan Griffin met it at the front post and had his header turned over the bar. Lingfield also went close as an effort narrowly cleared the cross bar and Gillards strength combined with his abilty to twist and turn away from his marker kept Chris Watton and Long on their toes. Storrington left the pitch at half time looking slightly dejected but emerged in the second half to have the better of the third quarter of the match. They still struggled to create any clear opportunities though and the visitors gradually came back into the match. As both sides went all out for the win and a few legs began to tire, the match became more and more open in the last fifteen minutes. Ramin Jarvand and Griffin linked up brilliantly to create an opening for the latter who took the ball first time on the volley and put it just over the angle of post and crossbar. Griffins best chance was yet to come though. A Norris short ballooned into the air of a defenders leg and the skipper reacted first to head the ball back into the danger area. Jarvand was first to the ball in the box but was denied by the onrushing keeper. The ball bounced up to Griffin at a slight angle but with the keeper on the floor and defenders scrambling for the line and The Swans supporters prepared to celebrate. Somehow, the normally clinical front man side footed the chance over the cross bar and the best chance for either side to steal the points was gone. There was still time for Lingfield to pile forward and force a couple of smart saves from Neil Gledhill and in the dying minutes they could have grabbed a win for themselves. Left back Paul McMichael cleared off the line to spark a goal mouth scramble with the Storrington defence eventually clearing their lines.

A draw was probably a fair result in the end with both sides having had changes to snatch a win but perhaps neither side doing quite enough to fully merit three points. There were also plenty of signs to suggest that both sides will remain in the right half of the table as the season progresses.

TEAM: Gledhill, M Bridle (Walshe), Watton (McMichael), Long, Riley, Tasker, Norris, Bridle, Leaver (Witherden),