2003- 2004 Season - Match Reports

Southampton City 2 - 3 Onsites            31st August  2003

Opening Day Defeat BY Onsites

The opening match of the new season saw newly promoted Onsites visit Totton College, where City's new manager, Dan Stacey, gave new signing Dan D'Amiro his first start and the captain's armband in a familiar looking line up. City were without Mark Dando, Paul Belverstone, Brad Cron and Cliff Cron all due to injury but he was still able to name a 16 man squad.

City were given a rude awakening to the new season as Onsites found the net with their first real attack on 8 minutes when Brown outpaced the City defence and prodded past Ade Holman as he advanced from goal. Things got worse for City just 7 minutes later as Brown scored again, heading powerfully home from a left wing cross. Five minutes later, Dan Stacey had a major reshuffle to consider as keeper, Ade Holman was forced to retire with a wrist injury. This meant that Nathan Gathergood, another new signing was introduced to play up front with Stu Parsonage going in goal and Dave Cron moving into the back four. These changes paid instant dividends and Gathergood found Dan Foot in space and he drilled his shot across the keeper into the corner of the net. Gathergood then hit the bar with a 30 yard shot as City pressed for an equaliser before half time. Despite several half chances they were unable to get another goal before the break.

The second half continued as the first finished with City having more of the ball but having to be aware of the swift counter attacks from Onsites. Indeed, it was Onsites who scored next as Brown completed his hat-trick with a sharp shot from 18 yards  which Stu Parsonage would have been disappointed not to have kept out. City responded well and got back into the match on 70 minutes when Dan Foot was upended in the box as he was about to shot and the referee awarded a penalty. The Onsites keeper saved Dan D'Amiro's first weak penalty but, to the disgust of the Onsites players, the referee ordered it to be retaken due to encroachment. He made no mistake with his second kick, firing low into the corner. City had their tails up as they drove forward for an equaliser and had a second penalty claim turned down when Dan Foot was tripped again. As the match entered stoppage time, an Onsites defender was adjusted to have pulled down John Mouland on the edge of the penalty area. He launched a tirade of abuse at the referee and was promptly red carded for foul and abusive language. Dan Foot blasted the ball over the bar as the referee blew the final whistle.

Overall, the performance was not that bad from City apart from the first 15 minutes when they slipped to a 2 - 0 deficit. There were promising performances from Dave Cron, Dan D'Amiro and Nathan Gathergood and with key players still to return, there are high hopes of a better season than last year.

Southampton City 0 - 8 Whitenap            7th September  2003

Twelve Minutes Of Pure Hell

The harsh realities of managing a Sunday Football Team were brought home to new City boss Dan Stacey, in devastating fashion as City slumped to an unwanted record league defeat at the hands of Whitenap. Dan was left powerless to act as a combination of Injuries, Holidays, Work Commitments and unexpected late withdrawals left him without a keeper and only one recognised defender. It was always going to be a struggle against a powerful looking Whitenap side but what followed was staggering.

Ade Hargrave was forced to go in goal, with a back three of Owen Christie, Dave Cron and Ian Rendall playing together as a defensive unit for the first time. City were a shambles from the referee's first whistle and looked like a bunch of strangers who had only just met, not a team who had been training hard since mid June. Whitenap found the net an incredible FIVE times in the opening 12 minutes. Ade Hargrave was slow to react to a long through ball on 5 minutes and the striker had an easy finish. Further goals flew in on 7,8,10 and 12 minutes including an acrobatic overhead effort from 12 yards. City were in complete disarray but to their credit steadied the ship somewhat as Nathan Gathergood and Dan A'miro finally saw some of the ball. It was Whitenap who found the net again on 33 minutes after a goal mouth scramble, with the ball falling to a Whitenap player who drove home from 15 yards. There were no further goals in the first half.

With only pride to play for, City had hoped to pose Whitenap a few more problems at the back than they did in the first half but within 3 minutes they had conceded a seventh goal following another goalmouth scramble. Dan Stacey and Cliff Cron replaced the injured Dan A'miro and Peter Cron early in the second half and at least then City began to match their opponents in all areas of the field. There was to be just one further goal as Whitenap substitute and secretary Leroy Whitelock delighted and surprised the travelling supporters by scoring as Ade Hargrave deflected his shot onto Dan Stacey's foot and the ball flew into the roof of the net.

All in all, this was a day to forgot for Southampton City. The lads who turned up deserved credit for the way they refused to let their heads drop despite the early deluge of goals against them and many of the players were playing completely out of position.

Fountain Court 3 - 3 Southampton City             14th September  2003

Fountain Court Out By Early City Strikes

City put last week's shocking defeat firmly behind them as they battled well for a well-earned point at Gang Warily against Fountain Court. Manager, Dan Stacey made a number of changes with Stu Parsonage back in goal, Si Cook making his first start of the season, Dan Foot and John Mouland returning and Dean Floyd re-signing for the club after an 18 month absence.

The introduction of Dean Floyd paid instant dividends on 4 minutes as his long throw caused chaos in the Fountain Court defence leaving Dan Foot a simple header from 6 yards for his second goal of the season. City did not sit back on their lead and were soon on the attack again. On 14 minutes, Brad Cron intercepted a weak throw from the opponent's keeper and slid the ball into the net from 18 yards for his opening goal of the season. Fountain Court were struggling to get into the match and Stu Bridle unleashed a cracking half volley onto the crossbar on the half hour. City let Fountain Court back into the match on 35 minutes when poor defensive cover let an opponent run from the halfway line and finish well as Stu Parsonage tried to narrow the angle. Fountain Court clearly encouraged by that goal, got on top and it was no surprise when they equalised on the stroke of half time with an excellent header from a right wing corner.

Fountain Court began the second half as they finished the first half and put City under pressure. Indeed, they were to find the net again on 58 minutes from another right wing corner although poor marking was a major factor in this goal rather than a good header. City responded well and were a little fortunate to be awarded a penalty on 65 minutes when Dan Foot's cross cannoned off a defender's arm from close range. Dean Floyd calmly dispatched the penalty as the Fountain Court Centre Back was booked for dissent. As thick smoke from a nearby gorse fire spread across the pitch, the action became red hot as Dean Floyd was fouled in the centre circle by the defender who moments before had been booked and a second yellow meant he was sent off. City survived a close call with 10 minutes remaining as Fountain Court found the net again but the Centre Forward had punched the ball into the net rather than heading it and the goal was disallowed.  Despite a number of half chances in the last few minutes, the match ended in a draw.

This performance was a vast improvement on the previous week and City deserved at least a point. There were strong performances from all over the park but special credit should go to Si Cook, Dean Floyd, John Mouland, Dan Foot and Brad Cron. Moan of the Match was the performance of the referee who managed to book 7 players and send one off in a match without a bad foul. Our club disciplinary record has been superb for the last four seasons but to receive bookings for the keeper handling out of the area (which he didn't), a foul (which wasn't) and kicking the ball away (some five yards only and in the general direction of the opponents free kick) certainly left a bit of a sour taste after a great performance.

Southampton City 3 - 9 Lapstone           21st September  2003

City Crushed By A LAPSTONE

Southampton City's poor start to the season sank to new depths of despair as all of their good work in the first hour was throw away in a crazy final 25 minutes in this Southampton Junior A First Round Cup Tie. With Si Cook unavailable, Cliff Cron was given his first start of the season along Gary Taylor in the centre of defence. The rest of the team was unchanged from the previous week.

There was little early goalmouth action as the Junior One rivals battled against the long grass on the Totton College pitch. City were first to find the net on 28 minutes when Stu Bridle's left wing cross found Dan Foot in space and he controlled well and finished beyond the dive of the Lapstone keeper. The lead lasted just 3 minutes as Lapstone rallied well and Stu Parsonage was just beaten by a 20 yard drive which crept inside the post. Both sides looked to take the initiative but there was no further score as the half time whistle went.

No-one could of forecast what was to follow in a remarkable second half. City were disrupted as Gary Taylor was forced off with a reoccurrence of his knee injury. It took Lapstone just 3 minutes of the second half to take the lead for the first time as they had a man over in a swift raid down the right and the squared ball across the area meant an easy finish. It was City's turn to respond well and they score a superb equaliser as Brad Cron volleyed in Dan Foot's cross to bring the teams level again. Two minutes later Lapstone scored again to make it 3-2 to the visitors. Again City responded well and looked for another equaliser but they were caught on the break again on 65 minutes and this goal knocked the stuffing out of them. It was plain to see the heads drop but it was unforgivable to concede a further 5 goals in a 11 minute spell. City were 9 -2 down with 10 minutes still remaining. Lapstone probably took their foot of the pedal somewhat as City came back into the match and Dan Foot sprang the offside trap and round the Lapstone keeper to score their 3rd of the match. There was still time for Dan Foot to come close to his hat-trick as a late effort was scrambled clear.

So City find themselves dumped out of the Southampton FA Cup again in embarrassing fashion. The manager and the player's know that the second half performance was just not good effort and all must pick themselves up for next week's league match against AFC Millbrook.

AFC Millbrook  2 - 1 Southampton City          28th September  2003

City Battle Well But Still No Win

Southampton City once again responded well to last week crushing defeat but found Junior One new boys, AFC Millbrook a tough nut to crack. In order to stem the flow of goals against us, Manager Dan Stacey signed on James Robinson to play in goal allowing Stu Parsonage to partner fit again Dave Cron in the centre of the City defence. Pete Cron replaced Ade Hargrave at right back and Dan D'Amiro returned to the bench after his injury.

City started well on the small, rock hard Sports Centre pitch against their young opponents looking to continue their 100% record. Good work from Brad Cron on the right saw him find Dan Foot in space but he failed to control the ball after a difficult bounce and the chance was gone. James Robinson in the City goal made several good saves as City continued to match their opponents in all areas of the pitch. In fact there was very little to choose between the clubs, at opposite ends of the table, as the match moved towards half time. In 1st half injury time, Millbrook got their noses in front with a fortunate goal as Robinson saved superbly from a header after a left wing corner. The ball squirmed free and as he caught it again, it was kicked from his hands and bundled in. The referee had little chance of the offence through the tangle of legs and bodies and allowed the goal to stand. 

City responded well at the beginning of the second half as Dan D'Amiro replaced Owen Christie on the right. City were the ones playing neat football as Millbrook often resorted to the long ball which was well dealt with by Dave Cron and Stu Parsonage. Millbrook's frustration grew as they began to be put under great pressure and things looked as they were getting out of control as Stu Parsonage was knocked to the ground by a Millbrook forward as the ball and the referee were at the other end of the pitch. With City pushing forward so much, it always left spaces at the back and this was exploited dramatically when Millbrook scored a second with 6 minutes remaining, with a strong run from the half way line and a cool finish. Unlike the previous week City did not let their heads drop and scored a consolation goal 2 minutes from time after excellent work from Stu Parsonage on the right who got to the bye line and squared the ball to Stu Bridle for an easy finish from 4 yards. There was not enough time for City to get the equaliser their performance deserved.

This performance was so much better than that of last week and City can count themselves a little unlucky not to pick up a point from this tough fixtures. The first win of the season may not be too far away.

Southampton City  2 - 4 Red Lion          5th October  2003

City Hit Rock Bottom After Another Defeat

Southampton City sunk to the bottom of the Junior One table after their fourth league defeat of the season despite another positive performance against the Red Lion. Lapstone turned the table upside down by smashing Whitenap's 100 % record gaining their first points of the season. Dan Stacey was without influential midfielder Dean Floyd as well as Pete Cron and Stu Parsonage.

The match kicked off in beautiful autumn sunshine as City had good early possession but without really threatening the Red Lion goal. The Red Lion Centre Forward saw plenty of the ball and was giving the new Centre Back pairing of Si Cook and Dave Cron plenty of problems but the City defence held on well. Red Lion did have the ball in the net just before half time but the referee disallowed the attempt as the half finished goal less.

City's rearguard action was  finally breached on 55 and 61 minutes with two "soft" goals. City got themselves back in the game with 15 minutes remaining after a good passing move down the left flank. John Mouland did well to meet the far post cross to head in his first of the season.  After chance of an equaliser were soon dispelled as Red Lion scored twice more within 10 minutes. Their fourth goal was a bit of nightmare for Ian Rendall as his weak goal kick went straight to the Red Lion centre-forward for an easy finish. For the second week running, Stu Bridle scored a late consolation for City with a controlled volley after picking up the ball on the edge of the area. Once again, City had played pretty well but were punished for a couple of mistakes at the back.

My thanks go to our multi-talented Manager, Dan Stacey who not managed the team and refereed the match, he also compiled the match report in my absence !!...Cheers Mate !!

Southampton City  9 - 1 Condor          12th October  2003

Brad Nets 7 As City Win At Last

Southampton City at last registered their first win of the season in bizarre circumstances in the DR Ryder Trophy 1st Round Tie at Totton College. Their opponents Condor, from the PM Section, had failed to show by 10.15am and the referee was just about to abandon the match when they turned up with 9 men after travelling to Totton from Brighton after a night out. The referee agreed to play the match at a reduced length of 30 minutes each way. With a number of players missing through injury, Dan Stacey named himself in an attacking looking line up.

City went straight on the attack and took the lead after 6 minutes when Dan Stacey played Matty Cron in wide on the right and it took in on and finished neatly into the far corner. City struggled somewhat to increase their lead after some wasteful finishing by did get a second on 15 minutes as Brad Cron found some space in the Condor penalty area, sidestepping a challenge before finishing well.  Just 3 minutes later, an excellent cross by Matty Cron was met by an equally good header by Brad Cron for City's third.  Brad completed his hat-trick with his third goal in 7 minutes as he sprung the Condor off side trap to finish easily in a one on one with the keeper. Just before half time City scored a fifth with Brad Cron again heading in his brother, Matty's cross. Despite a 5 - 0 half time lead, the City players were still disappointed with the first half performance.

Within 3 minutes of the restart, Brad Cron grabbed his 5th of the match after a great move down the right and a superb cross shot into the net. On 41 minutes, centre-back Stu Parsonage made a probing run into the Condor area, drawing the keeper and then squaring for Brad Cron to net his double hat-trick with his easiest goal of the match. More good work on the flanks, this time from Stu Bridle led to City's 8th goal, Brad Cron again being in the right place to score his 7th goal.  City were piling forward with everyone wanting to get on the score sheet and they paid the price when 9 man Condor scored a consolation goal with 5 minutes remaining as Dave Cron failed to clear and a shot flew in from 18 yards. This just spurred City forward again and John Mouland set up Ade Holman for a collector's piece goal with moments remaining.

It is hard to judge how well City really played in this match as Condor, although they should be  commended for actually playing the match, really didn't take things too seriously. It was good to find the net on nine occasions and hopefully give the players confidence for the matches ahead.

Sexton's South City  1 - 1 Southampton City          26th October  2003

Who Needs Beckham ? We've Got Ian Rendall !!

Ian Rendall's stunning 30 yard volley, 10 minutes from time gave Southampton City a point that they more than deserved with a battling performance as Sexton's South City. With City's injury list not improving despite the two week break and the late withdrawal of two key player's, Dan Stacey was left with just 10 fit player's to face high flying Sexton's.

It was another beautiful autumn morning as the game kicked off at Bursledon's Long Lane venue. City despite being a man down competed superbly in the first half and were more than a match for their opponents. Sexton's often resorted to the long ball over the top whilst City, at last, began to play the passing game that Dan Stacey had been wanting for weeks. City's best opportunity in the first half fell to Dean Floyd after half an hour when he shot narrowly wide after a fine run. Moments later, Dan Stacey latched onto a loose ball on the edge of the area but drove his shot just over. City keeper, James Robinson was dealing comfortably with the occasional attempts on goal that Sexton's had but he had to be very alert on the stroke of half time to rush from his goal to get a touch just before the on rushing forward. Sexton's appeals for a penalty were waved away as the striker crashed to the ground over the keeper's body.

The City player's were buoyant at half time and began the half in the same positive manner as the first half had ended.  Sexton's began to come into the game more as the second half wore on but City still created good chances with perhaps the best falling to Owen Christie who shot straight at the keeper when in space. Despite all of City's fine defensive work, they fell behind on 74 minutes after a corner was needlessly conceded. The City defence failed to pick up the late run of the Sexton's striker Vetere, and he powered a header into the net. City responded brilliantly and six minutes later were back on terms. A long throw from Dean Floyd was headed clear but the ball fell to Ian Rendall who unleashed a magnificent volley from 30 yards out which flew into the net of a post. This was surely one of the best goals in the history of the club. Ian Robinson was forced into a superb diving save as Sexton's piled forward again. Dean Floyd came close on two occasions to snatching the winning goal but City had to be satisfied with a point.

This was the best performance of the season by far. Every player played their part but special mentions should go to James Robinson, Ian Rendall who defended well and scored a cracking goal, Owen Christie who battled well despite an ankle injury and John Mouland who did a great job up front.

Boscombe Celtic  5 - 1 Southampton City          3rd November  2003

No Fun At The Seaside For City

Southampton City crashed out of the Hampshire Junior A Cup in disappointing fashion in a second round clash against Boscombe Celtic from Bournemouth. The match seemed in doubt as heavy overnight rain continued well into morning but a phone call to opponents confirmed the match would go ahead. City set off in a minibus with just 12 players for a drive through a flooded New Forest.

The pitch in Bournemouth was in first class condition but the game was to be spoilt by a strong gusty wind. City kicked off against the wind and comfortably coped with their opponents early pressure. In fact City took the lead on 20 minutes when Brad Cron's fine work on the right led to a dangerous near post cross being headed into his own net by the Boscombe Celtic left back. The wind was causing both sides difficulties particularly the City defence as Boscombe Celtic often played long balls forward from the back. Boscombe Celtic got back on terms on 30 minutes when City, not for the first time this season, failed to defend a corner properly. This time, Dan Stacey misjudged the corner as the ball caught in the wind and the oncoming attacker headed home. City responded immediately and Dan Foot was foiled by a fine save. This was a pivotal moment in the match as the resulting corner was cleared and City were a man short at the back and Celtic made there advantage count with a second goal. There were no further goals in the first half.

City, whilst disappointed being a goal down at half time, were quite pleased with the first half performance and were hopeful of getting back into the match playing with the wind in the second half. However, Boscombe Celtic scored an excellent 3rd goal just 4 minutes into the second half  with a 25 yard shot flying in off the crossbar giving James Robinson in the City goal no chance. The match was effectively over as a contest at this point. Boscombe Celtic scored a couple of more goals on 70 and 81 minutes as City players tired as the hosts ran out easy 5 - 1 winners.

This was a match where City performed pretty well for 45 minutes but as the match wore on a number of their more influential players drifted out of the game. The exception to this was once again was Captain Dean Floyd who had an excellent match in midfield. All in all, it was a good day out and everyone had a laugh on the journey back to Totton. Apologies to the residents of Christchurch who might of seen more of Dean Floyd's backside than they should of !!!

Southampton City  4 - 5 Itchen Manor          10th November  2003

City Edged Out In Nine Goal Thriller

Southampton City bowed out of the DR Ryder Trophy at the 2^nd Round stage after a cracking cup-tie with Junior One rivals, Itchen Manor. Dan Stacey was able to name a full strength 16 man squad for the match played at Totton College on a damp, drizzly morning.

The match started at a whirlwind pace and City found themselves a goal down after just 90 seconds as a long punt forward took a horrendous bounce just in front of keeper, James Robinson. The ball looped over him, thumped against the crossbar and rebound to a Manor striker who reacted quickly to head home. Worse was to follow as just four minutes later, Ade Holman was very harshly adjudged to have fouled his opponent in the penalty area. In fact, Ade had no chance of getting out of the way of the on-rushing attacker, who simply run into him and crashed to the ground. If anything, it was a case of obstruction but the referee’s decision, as always, was final. The penalty was thumped home with glee.  City piled forward to get back in the match and kept the visitor’s keeper busy. They got their break through on 15 minutes when Stu Bridle fired home a superb half volley as Dean Floyd’s long throw was only cleared to the edge of the area. City continued to have to the major possession but were caught out with a sucker punch as Itchen Manor cleared a City corner quickly and the two covering defenders were outpaced by the Manor forward who finished calmly.  After so much pressure on the Itchen Manor goal, City were a little shell shocked to go in at half time 3-1 down. 

City began the second half in positive fashion, and soon scored their second of the match with Dan Foot heading in Dean Floyds pinpoint left wing corner on 52 minutes. City drew level on 60 minutes with a another Floyd / Foot combination, this time with a little help of the Manor keeper who dropped Dean Floyds swirling cross at the feet of Dan Foot who hooked in from 4 yards. The stage was set for City to go on a win the match but they were next to concede a trademark goal as once again poor marking from a right wing corner so them fall 4-3 behind.   Itchen Manor scored the decisive goal  on 80 minutes as the tiring City defence allowed a Manor midfielder to go on a mazy run and shoot from 20 yards. Robinson got a hand on the shot which clipped the underside of the bar and drop down just beyond the goal line. The action swung back in favour of City as they scored a 4th goal on 83 minutes with Brad Cron’s flying header from another Dean Floyd cross. There was still time for John Mouland to fire just wide with moments remaining as Itchen Manor hung on grimly for their victory. 

Southampton City  0 - 2 AFC Millbrook         17th November  2003

Battling City Make It Difficult For Leaders

Southampton City made it difficult for League leaders, AFC Millbrook at Totton College but were unable to recover from two first half strikes by the visitors. Dan Stacey was once able to name a strong line up, the only change being Pete Cron replacing Dan Foot who had were commitments. 

The match kicked off on a bright autumn morning with the pitch is excellent condition. Unfortunately, once again, City fell behind to a very early goal as the Millbrook forward, Harbor, just beat the City off-side trap to run on to a ball over the top and chip in over Robinson as he advanced from his goal. Millbrook were obviously geed up by their early goal as they continually attacked the City goal. The woodwork saved City twice in the opening quarter as the City defence were struggling to contain the pace of the Millbrook forwards. However, Millbrook were not to be denied on 29 minutes as Harbor once again ran onto a long ball and finished calmly. The City defence were looking for an offside decision but the goal stood.  City rallied reasonably well after this but were unable to make any real inroads towards the Millbrook goal. 

City kicked off the second half and began playing some nice passing football. They had several half chances early in the second half. Millbrook were being frustrated by the offside flag on a number of occasions as their forwards tried to expose the lack of pace in the City defence. Dan Stacey brought on Owen Christie and debutant Chris Mills as City continued to press for a goal. Ade Holman just failed to connect properly with an overhead kick, Stu Parsonage directed a couple of headers wide and John Mouland’s free kick was scrambled clear by the Millbrook keeper and full back. Despite all their efforts, City could not get that vital breakthrough as Millbrook ran out 2 – 0 winners to extend their lead at the top of the table. 

The City player’s can be pleased with their performances particularly in the second half when they were more than a match for the team at the top of the table. More battling performances like one will surely see that first elusive league win of the season.  

Southampton City  2 - 1 Sexton's South City         14th December  2003

Dean Plays Santa As He Gives City The Points 

A goal 9 minutes from time from skipper Dean Floyd gave City their first league win of the season and boosted their hopes for Junior One survival. The three points lifted them of the bottom for the first time in months. 

Things looked bleak for City as three no-shows left them with only 11 players and no goalkeeper for the important league clash with Sexton’s South City. Manager Dan Stacey was left with no option but to play in goal but fortunately the 10 outfield players slotted into their natural positions in a solid looking 4-4-2 formation. 

On a beautiful winter’s morning and a slightly heavy pitch, City settled well with Brad Cron and John Mouland seeing plenty of the ball up front. Dan Stacey made a fine save on 8 minutes as the Sexton’s forward, Vetere, burst through. Sexton’s were not to be denied on 13 minutes though as a long throw from the left was flicked on in the area and Channel thumped the ball into the top corner. City didn’t let their heads drop and kept attacking well. They had to be aware of the Sexton’s ploy of a long ball over the top for their pacy forward to chase. The defence was being superbly marshalled by Cliff Cron and was coping well with this threat. City scored the equaliser they deserved on 35 minutes after excellent work by Stu Bridle. He shrugged off the attempts of his opponent who was trying to exchange shirts to feed Dan D’Amico in centre field. He strode forward and fired in superb shot from 20 yards into the roof of the net.  City were playing some neat football and fully deserved to be level at half time. 

Sexton’s had a very positive start to the second half and threatened the City goal on a number of occasions. Dan Stacey mad a couple of fine saves and Dave and Cliff Cron at the half of the defence held firm. Dean Floyd continued to control matters in the centre of the pitch and Stu Bridle, Dan Foot and Dan D’Amico began to see plenty of the ball on the flanks. Both John Mouland and Brad Cron were tireless in their running as City looked more likely to score the decisive goal. The vital breakthrough came on 81 minutes as John Mouland put Dean Floyd through one on one with the Sexton’s keeper. Although the keeper made a fine stop from the initial shot, the ball ricocheted off of Floyd’s chested and rolled over the line to the delight of the City players. Sexton’s never looked like responding and City looked to extend their lead in the final minutes but the match finished in a morale boosting 2 –1 victory. 

City should be able to push on after this vital win and more performances like this should see them climb the table. Special credit to Dan Stacey who was brilliant in goal, Cliff and Dave Cron, Dean Floyd and Dan D’Amico for their goals and all round performance in midfield.

Southampton City  11 - 2 Lapstone         18th January  2004

City Make Under Strength Lapstone Pay   

City's first match of 2004 saw them show little mercy on Lapstone who started the match with only 8 players as they put 11 goals past them. Dan Stacey, with 18 players to choose from, gave Chris Mills his first start up front and welcomed back Gary Taylor from long term injury. Club Captain, Dean Floyd was out with injury.

The match kicked off in beautiful winter sunshine on a slightly frosty pitch. City were shaken as Lapstone remarkably took a 5th minute lead after a neat passing move through the middle of the City defence resulted in a tidy chipped finish. City struggled to find their feet and although they had plenty of the ball had to wait until 17 minutes for their equaliser as Dan Foot thrashed home his 7th goal of the season after cutting in from the left wing. Lapstone continued to battle well and kept City at bay. The City pressure finally told on 32 minutes when Chris Mills jinxed his way into the six yard box and seem to take an age before blasting home his first competitive goal for the club. The third City goal came just 2 minutes later. Pete Cron played a fine ball down the right channel to Chris Mills who battled to get to the bye line and his low cross was touched home by leading scorer Brad Cron. There was no further score in the first half as City lead 3-1 at the break.

Stu Parsonage replaced Gary Taylor for the second half and City scored within 15 seconds of the restart as Brad Cron stole the ball in midfield and fed Chris Mills who finished coolly. City continued to push forward, perhaps remembering the 9-2 Cup defeat to Lapstone earlier in the season, and their 5th goal came on 50 minutes as Dan Foot's long free kick found Brad Cron in space on the edge of the area and he volleyed in the net. Pete Cron then netted his first goal for almost two years on 56 minutes as Dan D'Amico set him through one on one with the keeper and he made no mistake. Just 3 minutes later, Chris Mills completed his hat-trick with another controlled finished. City were now running riot as Lapstone were visibly tiring. Ade Holman headed home Dan Foot's corner on the hour mark to make it 8 - 1. Brad Cron completed his hat-trick two minutes later as he robbed a Lapstone defender on the edge of his own area and scored past the stranded keeper. Lapstone made one of their rare attacks and Cliff Cron was harshly adjudged to have fouled an attacker on the edge of the area. The resulting free kick was superbly executed into the top corner to bring the score to 9 - 2. The scoring was not finished there however as Dan D'Amico fired home from 14 yards on 74 minutes and the same player broke from the half way line to score City's eleventh goal on 85 minutes to secure the handsome victory.

It is difficult to read too much into this match but you can only play what is put in front of you. City played some fine football in some periods of the match but were also guilty of some sloppy moments and some glaring misses (Brad and Stu P take note) however it is another 3 points and we did our goal difference plenty of good. Lapstone deserve much credit for their battling performance and team spirit despite being up against it from the start.

Southampton City  0 - 4 Itchen Manor         25th January  2004

City Lose Out Again In A Disappointing Manor

It was back to the same old story for Southampton  City after back to back victories, loads of huff and puff, few clear goal scoring chances and the odd defensive slip up saw them slide to a 4 – 0 defeat to an ordinary Itchen Manor side. 

Dan Stacey was without the midfield trio of Dean Floyd, Dan Foot and Stu Bridle with John Mouland, Matty Cron and Owen Christie being the only changes from the previous week. Once again, it was a beautiful sunny winters morning as the match kicked off on a frosty pitch. City were soon under pressure as Itchen Manor saw plenty of the ball early on. James Robinson in the City was having problem with the low, bright sun which caused him to drop two early crosses. He did however make a fine save from point blank range on 16 minutes. The City goal was leading something of a charmed life though as the game approached half time scoreless. Indeed, City at last became a bit of a threat to the Manor defence in the last quarter of the half. Despite the late City pressure, they fell behind on 43 minutes when a loose Cliff Cron pass flew out for a Manor throw in. This was taken quickly and the ball flicked off of Owen Christie’s head into the path of the Itchen Manor forward who burst between the two Centre-Backs and slide the ball calmly past the out rushing keeper. The half time lead was no more than Itchen Manor deserved. 

City began the second half brightly and perhaps had their best opening when Pete Cron was put through on the left but he drilled his shot into the side netting. Itchen Manor were to find the net though on 61 minutes as the ball was given away cheaply on their right and after the ball pinged around in the box, it was driven home from 15 yards into the corner of the net. Itchen Manor made the game safe on 75 minutes with another goal started on the Itchen Manor left. The attacking winger got to the bye line and squared the ball for an easy third Manor goal. City were to concede a further goal with 5 minutes remaining. Dan D’Amico was fortunate to receive no more than a telling off for a nasty looking tackle, 25 yards from goal. Itchen Manor exacted ample revenge though as the free kick was floated into the area where it was headed home as the City defence stood and watched. In the end, Itchen Manor were pretty good value for their 4 – 0 win. 

Whilst City could point out the loss of the major part of their midfield, this in truth was a poor performance with little creativity and no real leadership on the pitch. With two tricky away matches in the next fortnight, City will have to perform better to get points that they desperately need.

Red Lion  3 - 1 Southampton City             1st February  2004

City Fail To Stop The Lion's Roar

City slipped to a disappointing defeat at high flying Red Lion at a damp Eling Rec where they had good chances to come away with some points. 

Ade Holman made a rare start in goal and instantly made a fine save to prevent an early Red Lion goal. Moments later, the action swung to the other end as Chris Mills had a shot bundled off the line in a frantic opening two minutes. Red Lion were first to score on 11 minutes when Ade Holman made a horrendous mistake (his words not mine !!) when he failed to deal with a cross and the ball bounced off him straight to the Red Lion striker who finished easily from 12 yards. City responded brilliantly and got a well-deserved equaliser on 21 minutes with a well worked goal. Brad Cron won a midfield tackle and found Dan Foot. He swept a fine ball out to the right wing where Matty Cron swung in a fine cross which was met on the run by Brad Cron and his diving header found the corner of the net. City defended well for the remainder of the half as the teams went in level at the break. 

Dave Cron replaced Gary Taylor at the heart of the City defence for the second half and was soon in the action as Red Lion piled forward. Resolute defending was beginning to frustrate the Red Lion and a couple of counter attacks saw Chris Mills foiled by the Red Lion keeper. Red Lion finally got their noses in front on 65 minutes when a long throw was launched in the City box. The Red lion forward controlled on his chest and flicked the ball over his shoulder into the roof of the net. Within seconds, it was 3 –1 as the pacy forward ran onto a ball over the top and gave Ade Holman no chance with a cool finish. To City’s credit they did not let their heads drop and spent the rest of the match camped in the Red Lion half. Dan Foot and Chris Mills came close but it just wasn’t going to be City’s day. 

Onsites  3 - 1 Southampton City             15th February  2004

City's Second Half Horror Show

City visited Onsites at Southampton Sports Centre in a game that they knew they couldn't lose if they wanted to stay in Junior One. Dan Stacey was able to name a pretty much full strength side with just the notable exception of skipper Dean Floyd who is recovering from a serious injury. The match kicked off on a bright but cold morning on a heavy pitch.

City had an excellent first half and thoroughly deserved their 1 - 0 half time lead as Stu Parsonage fired home his first goal of the season. At half time, the City players were in a determined mood to push on and get a vital 3 points.

Things certainly didn't go to plan as City's good work in the first half was wrecked by an appalling second half showing which saw them concede five goals and barely threaten the opponents goal. Yet another unexplainable collapse after a good performance early on.

Southampton City  2 - 4 Holbury                  22nd February  2004

First Half Lapses Let City Down

City showed their Jackell and Hyde characteristics again as they put in a dreadful 1st half performance in their match against Waterside neighbours Holbury. The second half showing was much better but couldn't prevent a disappointing 4 - 2 defeat. 

Steve Cox made his first appearance in the City goal, but Holbury based Chris Mill's missed out due to injury. City started the match brightly with Dan Foot and Bead Cron seeing plenty of the ball up front. Holbury however took the lead on 16 minutes somewhat against the run of play as City were caught out by a ball over the top leaving the centre-forward one on one with the keeper. City's defensive problem were exposed again 8 minutes later as they failed to clear a left wing cross and an unmarked opponent slotted home from 12 yards. Poor marking was to blame for Holbury's 3rd goal on 34 minutes as a Holbury attacker was left unmarked at the far post and he was able to nod home a right wing cross. City looked a shambles as the half time whistle went.

Things went from bad to worse in the second half as a Holbury forward outpaced the City defence and slid home another goal for the opponents on 59 minutes. Another big defeat looked on the cards at this point. Instead of letting their heads drop, the City players at last played with some spirit and began to peg Holbury in their own half. City were award penalty on 80 minutes from a trip in the area and Brad Cron confidently fired home his 15th goal of the season. Just a minute later, City were awarded a free kick dome 40 yards out. Dan Foot fired in the free kick, which the Holbury keeper misjudged under pressure from a couple of City forwards and the ball sailed into the net. Within a minute, Holbury were awarded a penalty of their own as Cliff Cron fouled his opponent on the edge of the area. Obviously, the (no-so) daunting figure of Steve Cox in the City goal put off the penalty taker as his spot hit the foot of both posts before being scrambled clear. City had a few half chances in the remaining 6 minutes but were unable to get another goal.

If City had shown the same application for the first 60 minutes as they did for the last half hour the result may have been different but this defeats leave City still struggling in the bottom two of the table.  

Lapstone  3 - 3 Southampton City                      7th March  2004

Basement Dwellers Share The Points

The two bottom side in Junior One met a windy Bishopstoke Rec. With one big victory each so far this season, it was no surprise that they shared the points in a very entertaining match.

City began the match well, with fit-again Chris Mills causing the Lapstone defence some early problems. In fact, he opened the scoring on 8 minutes after he outpaced the opposing centre-back and finished easily as the Lapstone keeper remained rooted to his line. The lead lasted just five minutes though as it was City's turn for it's defence to be outpaced with a quick counter attack down the left saw a low cross calmly dispatched from 10 yards. Within a minute, Chris Mills did it again with a carbon copy of his first goal. City were playing with assurance and almost hit a third as Mills hit a post as half time approached. Manager, Dan Stacey, who was making a rare appearance in midfield, was able to give an upbeat half time talk.

City began the 2nd half in the same fashion as they finished the first half, with Chris Mills hit the woodwork on 49 minutes. It was no surprise when they scored a third goal on 60 minutes. Brad Cron strode forward in the midfield and found Chris Mills unmarked on the edge of the box. His first time shot flew into the roof of the net for a superb hat-trick.  This time it was Lapstone who responded well to conceding a goal as they scored just two minutes later with a scrambled effort. This obviously fired them up as the City goal came under a lot of pressure. On 68 minutes, the City crossbar was rattled by a tremendous drive. There was no escape a minute later, when Stand In keeper Steve Cox was given no chance by an angled shot from 20 yards that brought the teams level. Chris Mill's eventful match was to be cut short as he was harshly sent off on 83 minutes for what the referee considered to be Foul and Abusive Language. It was backs to the wall stuff for the last 15 minutes or so but City held on gamely for the point they thoroughly deserved.

The point each probably did neither team much good in their respective struggles to avoid relegation but both clubs deserved much credit for a much played in good spirit despite difficult conditions and some "interesting" refereeing. 

Southampton City  4 - 4 Fountain Court              14th March  2004

Magnificent Fight back As City Grab A Point

Report to Follow

Itchen Manor  2 - 1 Southampton City                      21st March  2004

Unlucky City Made To Pay The Penalty

Southampton City were undone by two  dubious penalty decisions and an injury time strike as they slipped to an undeserved 2 - 1 defeat at the hands of  Itchen Manor. Already relegated City put in a great performance in sometime atrocious conditions.

City made just two changes from the previous week with Dan Foot and Owen Christie replacing Dave Cron and Stu Bridle. City began the match well and were unlucky with two break away with Dan Foot and then Chris Mills both being thwarted by the Itchen Manor keeper. A howling wind and heavy rain was turning the pitch into a swamp and both sides found it difficult going. City had a lucky escape on 32 minutes when Itchen Manor hit the crossbar from a 25 yard strike. In fact, this was the closest to a goal in a very tight first half.

City made a superb start to the second half with a goal within two minutes as Dan Foot found Chris Mills in space in the Manor area and he finished coolly lifted the ball over the keeper and into the corner of the net.  City continued to press and both Brad Cron and Chris Mills were unlucky to see goal bound shots become stuck in puddles in the six yard box. City should have had a second goal on 65 minutes as Chris Mills was crudely brought down from behind as he was about to shot in the penalty area. Remarkably the referee waved play on from his position in the centre circle. He did manage to award a penalty to Itchen Manor some 30 seconds later though as Steve Cox attempted to clear a low cross into the City area and the ball spun up an brushed his arm. This was very harsh to say the least. The penalty was calmly dispatched. City heads seemed to drop a little but resolute defending saw the game enter injury time level at 1-1. With seconds remaining, Itchen Manor snatched an unlikely winner as a right wing cross caught in the wind and drifted over the City keeper and in the net.

A disappointing result for such a positive showing, but the current settled side shows a lot of promise. City now need to aim to not finish bottom of the division despite their certain relegation.

Holbury  1 - 3 Southampton City                      28th March  2004

City Stroll To First Away Win

Southampton City at last put in a performance to be proud of, as Chris Mill's fired in his third hat-trick in four games to guide City to a surprisingly easy win. With little more than pride to play for, it was clear that all the City players were playing for enjoyment and it really showed.

City welcomed back Jamie Oliver who survived his Fratton experience last week as Steve Cox stepped in to replace James Robinson in goal. City started well and soon put Holbury under pressure. City took the lead on 11 minutes when the Holbury keeper attempted a clearance which hit Brad Cron and bounced into the path of Chris Mills. He had plenty to do to score but showed a good touch and a calm head to round the keeper and slide home. The lead lasted only a couple of minutes though as the stand in keeper let a weak 20 yard shot slip from his grasp and trickle over the line. City responded well and regained their lead on 20 minutes as Dan Foot played a wonderful through ball to Chris Mills who used his strength to shrug off the Centre back and fire home from 18 yards. City were looking excellent value for their lead with Dan Foot and Stu Parsonage snuffing out the few Holbury counter attacks. City two wingers, Cliff Cron and Stu Bridle were giving the Holbury defence plenty to think about as the match reached half time.

City were expecting a second half onslaught from Holbury but it never really materialised as it was the visitors who looked more likely to score. Indeed, Chris Mills hit the woodwork twice in the second half. Cliff Cron was unfortunate to be booked for not retreating 10 yards from a free kick although his opponent deliberately kicked to ball at him. His brother Peter followed him into the referee's notebook moments later for apparent retaliation. Steve Cox was barely troubled in the second half and City got the goal their second half performance warranted with Chris Mills bundling the ball home on 88 minutes as the Holbury keeper fumbled sub Matty Cron's low cross.

City's recent good form continued with an excellent victory and with one game left thoughts are already turning to the end of season event. With Brad Cron on 15 goals and Chris Mills on 13 goals, the final match at Whitenap will be interesting to see who will finish our leading goalscorer.

Whitenap  1 - 2 Southampton City                      18th April  2004

City Make Whitenap Feel All Washed Out

James Oliver, with his first goal for the club, cooked up a late winner as City grabbed a well-deserved win over our long time rivals Whitenap. With our opponents still harbouring thoughts of the Runners Up spot in Junior One and no doubt remembering the 8-0 thrashing they handed us on the opening day of the season, City knew this could be a tough match. Dan Stacey, in his last match in charge, had the luxury of having a full squad to choose from. Dean Floyd and Dave Cron both had recovered from bad injuries and John Mouland made a surprise return to squad but had to be content with a place on the bench. Ade Holman also returned in goal for City. 

City, playing away at Totton College due to a late change of venue, kicked off on a pitch that hadn’t seen a lawn mower for weeks and that was quite heavy from over night rain. Both sides took time to find their feet as the match started at a sedate pace. James Oliver, took an early blow to the face which resulted in a severe nose bleed which required treatment and the dangerous Whitenap forward Tony Taylor limped off with a knee injury. In a half of few chances, Ade Holman was forced into making two saves and City came closest to breaking the deadlock with a shot that hit the post. The steady rain that started just before kick off started to get heavier as the half wore on and puddles began to form all over the pitch. Incredibly, there was no score at half time despite conditions that would normally result in a goal avalanche. 

It was a similar story in the second half, with City playing some good football but not really testing the Whitenap keeper. They had to remain alert for the occasional Whitenap counter attack. On the hour mark, Chris Mills was replaced by John Mouland. The deadlock was broken on 64 minutes, when Whitenap scored with a crisp drive from 18 yards and a short scramble in the City penalty area. It was a lead they barely deserved. City piled forward in search of an equaliser and were almost level on 68 minutes in bizarre circumstances as a Whitenap defender made a horrible mess of a clearance and the ball soared high into the air and dropped against the base of the post with John Mouland unable to scramble the ball home. City did get back on terms on 72 minutes, with perhaps their goal of the season. The ball was played to Brad Cron just inside the Whitenap area and his close control made himself just enough room to curl a superb shot into the top far corner. This goal confirmed Brad as the club’s leading scorer for the second season running. From this point, it seemed there would only be one winner and this turned out to be the case as City scored the decisive goal with six minutes remaining. The Whitenap player’s stopped expecting the referee’s whistle when Stu Bridle clashed with a counterpart in the middle of the field. The referee waved play on as Dean Floyd found John Mouland in space on the right with a delightful pass.  Mouland strode forward and drew the keeper off of his line and squared the ball across the six yard box for James Oliver to tap home his first for the club. City comfortably held on to the three points in the remaining minutes for an excellent victory. 

The end of the season was as good as the beginning was poor. In the last 5 matches, we have shown promotion form but it did not save us from relegation. But it we keep the player’s who performed so well in the last 5 matches, next season will no doubt be a lot better.