The Word In The Wood

U9 boys vs Bushey Rangers

After a long summer of assembling a squad we finally got to see what the boys could do

in the white shirt of Borehamwood and they didn’t disappoint.

From the start the energy levels were through the roof against a good Bushey side who competed well in all areas of the pitch. Having just transitioned from 5v5 to 7v7 there was always a chance that the size of the pitch might get the better of their little legs but it never did.

After an even first quarter Borehamwood began to take control and did all but find the net with some great attacking play from the 3 prongs of Mehdi, Lennon and Archie and if it wasn’t for the outstanding performance from the Bushey number 1 they could have all got a goal.

With the game still even going into the 3rd quarter Lake was called into action to make a string of impressive saves to keep Bushey at bay and from then on Borehamwood started to press. it was a great 25yard pass from the ever solid Ronnie that found the feet of Archie who showed the rest of them how to finish.

Into the final quarter and the boys never looked back with some amazing footwork from Kacper in the middle and efforts from Arthur and Mehdi both hitting the woodwork the boys were on fire.

With the game still on a knife edge, some great play from Aiden and Arthur on the wing gave Arthur the space to swing in a cross only for Mehdi to be lurking at the back post for a tap in.

Special mention to Ronnie at the back who was outstanding from start to finish showing football intelligence beyond his years and receiving the coveted parents' player of the match.

Well played to both teams and best of luck to Bushey Rangers for the rest of the season

+

Having secured their first win last week in West Herts Div 1, our U18 boys turned their attentions to the Herts FA County Cup and a 1st round match against Baldock Town. With all 18 squad players permitted to attend this blue riband competition, competition for places was razor tight as it should be in every side seeking success; the boys sought an assured performance to reach the next round.

An early goal always helps to settle things down and Fan showed quality to release Makamian down the right wing, who jinked inside the box and fired home, the Baldock defence unable to keep his effort out. Captain Ifeacho was a constant issue for the away defenders and his marauding run and shot forced a corner that Makamian delivered perfectly on to the onrushing Fearon-Mcdonnell; his header was superbly bulleted into the top corner for 2-0.

Thereafter, the Wood backed off and took a long breather despite the game being only 15 minutes old. Baldock naturally enough created their own chances during this period and were unlucky not to score with keeper Elboukhari enjoying a solid game to keep them out, on his toes and commanding to smartly save a corner that was headed goal-bound. Despite losing concentration a couple of times during the match, Hones and Manning continued their outstanding form at centre back, joined by the equally impressive Carlow whose aerial prowess, tackling and ball quality add greatly to the team’s defensive capabilities.

It was only after the excellent Collier and Zefi grew into the game that the Wood were able to exert control in the midfield and the performances of these players in winning the ball and using it calmly and effectively were very encouraging and a refence for the team. Pop brought energy and running up front and his surge led to Crucefix opening his account at the back post. These two combined again shortly afterwards with Pop slipping a lovely ball to Crucefix, who buried home with his customary poise for his brace.

There was one more goal first half and it was a good one after nearly 10 passes from one side of the pitch to the other. At the end of this move, Carlow’s long pass picked out Crucefix wide, who slipped in Collier to direct a pinpoint cross to Fearon-Mcdonnell. For such a unit, this guy has a super touch and his control with right peg before dispatching into the top bag with his left was of great quality. The half ended 5-0 but, improvements were required and delivered second half as the boys upped their game. Fan re-joined the fray and linked up really well with Collier and Zefi to exert total control on the midfield, leading to the Wood’s best period.

Hones picked out a stunning cross field ball that was slipped into Fearon-Mcdonnell to curl home beautifully, while Makamian forced a penalty and then handed the ball to Collier to open his account for the Wood. Though his well struck effort was saved, that goal will come soon with more performances like today.

The ever dangerous Silva picked the ball up 25 yards out and ran at the Baldock defence, his balance outstanding as he evaded challenges and slotted home with his right foot; such a calm player in front of goal these days and already with 3 to his name in two games. After another excellent early pass from Fan, Silva warmed the keeper’s hands once more and when everyone else turned off, Makamian switched on and was both quick and brave to bundle home the rebound despite the keeper’s despairing lunge.

With the last play of the match, Makamian was felled 25 yards out. Montgomery took the resultant free kick and produced a mega bomb that power curled into the net. The competition’s mercy rule kicked in at 9-0 and the ref brought the match to an early conclusion.

Baldock’s players, staff and attitude were tremendous today, they worked their socks off and played to their best potential which is all anyone can ask. However, against less storied sides, it’s very important to play your football simply and this is even more relevant when the match is won to allow momentum to build, confidence to grow and avoid dragging your team back with selfish behaviour and decisions. It was excellent to see so many of the squad recognise this and execute the game plan with a growing maturity, with many using today’s performance to make a persuasive argument to make next week’s squad and start that game.

MoM was shared and went to Fearon-Mcdonnell and Makamian. The former for a perfect hatrick of header, left and then right foot finishes which sees him take an early lead in the goal-scoring charts while the latter was on the front foot from the off, scoring a brace, assisting others, winning a pen and tracking back; exemplifying what's required from a winger in this team.

+

Our U16 Boys finally succumbed to a strong Sun Sports side after holding out for 60 minutes, the game ending 5-1.

+

Bury Rangers 2-4 Borehamwood2000

The U16 girls were in cup action today, away to Division 2 Bury Rangers.   This was a good opportunity for us to bounce back from the opening day defeat, try a new formation and get valuable minutes on the clock for all of the squad.

The pitch was hard and bumpy and not the easiest to play on, and it took us a while to settle down and string the passes together. To their credit the girls stuck to the plan and the opening goal arrived on 25mins courtesy of well taken finish by our effervescent summer signing Martha, assisted by Milly.

In contrast to last week we had plenty of depth on the bench to call on today, so we were able to rotate and keep the team fresh. Twins Annie and Hollie and vice captain Amie came on looked after the ball well with great footwork.  Meanwhile captain Leni was marshalling the back four and getting on the ball regular so we were able to establish a bit more quality in possession.

The second half sprung into life with a goal self made goal from Abi on 45mins.   The hosts soon pulled one back directly from a corner but this only served to spur us into a response with 2 more goals in 2 minutes from Abi to put us 4-1 up which effectively ended the game as a contest.

The host were determined not to make life easy for us and a moment of hesitation at the back allowed Bury to pull a goal back but it was to no avail as the rest of the chances in the match fell to us, and were it not for a very bobbly pitch we would have scored several more.

This was not a vintage performance but it was a good win, and we march into the next round.  We learned a lot from the change in system and rotation of personnel and this will only benefit us as the season the progresses. 

We celebrated the win and two birthdays today with some well earned donuts.   We have a great week of training planned ahead of another very tough game in the league against Ruislip Rangers.   But we go into with confidence on the back of this win. 

Player of the Match goes to Leni for an excellent all round performance and for keeping us organised and focused throughout.  Abi with 3 well taken goals was a very close second.  Up the Wood!

+

U15 girls were at home again today in the 1st round of the League Cup vs Goffs oak. We played Goffs 3 times last season and came out on top but learnt what a tough outfit they are. We expected a tough morning’s work and we got it. The game started well with lots of possession and the girls creating chance after chance without getting the goal we deserved. Thoughts on the touchline were that could come back to haunt us?

The front 3 of Lonaldo, G9 & Maisaldinho thought differently and were beginning to look even more dangerous, G9 was in devastating form today and got her first with a sublime finish past the helpless Goffs GK.

The game was to continue in this vein with Goffs only threat a long ball over the top or a breakaway from their excellent No10 Ria. It was at times a frustrating 1st half where our dominance felt unrewarded.

An Injury to our defensive colossus Skippy affected her day, in clearing one attack she was taken out whilst off balance and landed awkwardly on her shoulder which caused her neck and shoulder pain all day. Yvie came into the game and was faultless in her work with Ava. Pops is made of the right stuff and after a short rest was back to her dominate self with partner Ava, who again was having a sterling game! The first half finished 1-0.

Manager Dave and coach Pete rallied the troops at half time, and asked for a more ruthless display. The midfield 3 of Poppy, Aanya and skipper Annie where running the show but we wanted more from each player to take the game away from Goffs.

Poppy N had her best half in a white shirt as she completely dominated midfield picking the ball up and feeding Aanya, G9 and Maisaldinho! Maisie was frightening today causing problems whenever she got on the ball, her electric pace is remarkable and an issue for defenders, she also possesses a very keen eye for goal scoring her first after great work from Poppy & Aanya: 2-0.

A defensive mistake with both CBs going for the same ball let Goffs back into the game for 2-1, and a nervy 10 mins before G9 extended the lead with her 2nd of the day: 3-1.

The girls could relax a little now and express themselves, Aanya was dancing round flailing tacklers leaving them in a heap as they tried to shackle her Gazzaesque runs! Our 4th goal today was a net breaker from Maisaldinho that gave the Goffs GK no chance.

FBs TJ and Elsinho were both now getting more involved offensively with Theaya producing one thunderous challenge on the Goffs No10 and then playing forward to her teammate. Elsinho was moved forward in a shuffle that saw Yvie drop into her more familiar RB position. Elsinho’s darting runs where soon giving the Goffs LB nightmare’s as was Aanya on the opposite flank, one such run saw Aanya cut back in on her magic right foot and unleash the Kraaken as the ball flew into the night past the keeper ! 5-1

The game was now all but over but Goffs didn’t give in and got another consolation goal again from mistakes from ourselves which we need to cut out in D1. A very threadbare squad atm with only 12 players today, with Riss ill and Isabella injured but the 12 stood up to be counted.

FT 5-2, Scorers: Gabby 2, Maisie 2, Aanya 1.

+

Hitchin Belles vs Borehamwood 2000 U11's

The sun shone brightly over Hitchin on Saturday morning, though a crisp chill reminded everyone that autumn football was well underway. The mighty Borehamwood 2000 travelled to face an in-form Hitchin Belles side, and under the leadership of captain Tippi, the visitors marched out with belief and determination.

The game began at lightning speed, with Hitchin using their downhill advantage to notch up a handful of early goals. Borehamwood were momentarily rattled, but like true professionals, they dusted themselves off, gritted their teeth, and prepared for battle.

In attack, Elsie quickly found her rhythm as centre forward, making darting runs and narrowly missing the target, while Daisy tirelessly delivered crosses from the right. On the opposite wing, Juniper showed her versatility, sprinting back to clear a certain goal off the line - a moment that epitomised Borehamwood’s fighting spirit.

Defensively, Sienna and Polly stood strong. Sienna’s decisive tackles broke down Hitchin’s pressure, while Polly’s crunching challenges and no-nonsense clearances gave the team fresh energy. Olivia was outstanding in goal, pulling off a magnificent save before setting Maisie free in midfield, who battled her way through to feed Elsie. A clever pass found Juniper, who finished with style nutmegging the Hitchin keeper for Borehamwood’s first goal.

That strike injected confidence throughout the side. Gracie dazzled fans with her quick feet and flair, Tippi bossed the midfield with crunching tackles, and new signing Xyla impressed on debut with her tireless tracking back and intelligent positioning.

The second half saw Borehamwood take full advantage of the slope. Daisy’s trademark right-footed cross picked out Elsie, who calmly slotted home their second goal of the match, showing the composure of a seasoned pro. From there, Borehamwood dominated possession. Anisia shone with fearless defensive challenges, while Emily, now between the posts, produced a string of sensational saves, her sharp reading of the game forcing Hitchin to shoot wide time and again.

Late in the match, Borehamwood pushed for an equaliser. Juniper caused problems on the wing, earning a dangerous free-kick, and as time ticked away, captain Tippi’s corner skimmed past the goalmouth, agonisingly close to securing a dramatic finish.

The final whistle blew with Borehamwood narrowly missing out, but this was no defeat in spirit. Their teamwork, grit, and relentless fight made the Wood Army proud, proving that the team is growing stronger with every game.

Special mentions went to debutant Xyla, who showed fantastic promise, while Juniper’s dazzling display earned her opposition Player of the Match. From the coaches, tireless midfield warrior Polly was named Borehamwood’s Player of the Match.

Borehamwood 2000 may not have secured the result, but if determination, unity, and heart decided football matches, they would have left Hitchin triumphant.

Onwards and upwards, Borehamwood!

The 25/26 season finally kicked off and the Wood's juniors were playing the beautiful game once again!

Bwood2000 1-3 Bengeo Tigers

Football is back, and no tougher way for the U16 girls to kick off the new campaign than an opening day fixture against reigning league and county cup champions Bengeo Tigers.

The visitors were the quicker team to settle, getting to grips with the hard pitch, and with pace on both flanks testing our defence early on.

Decent chances game and went at both ends before Bengeo took the lead on 11mins. A smart through ball and close range finish doing the damage.

The rest of the first half was fairly even, with Bengeo enjoying better possession, but few clear chances. One very clear chance fell to a Bengeo player 8 yards out which was met with an incredible save up onto the bar by Nisa.

The first half ended 1-0 to the visitors which was deserved, but the Wood were certainly not out of the contest. We needed an early goal in the second half and sadly for us it went the other way, with another clinical strike from Bengeo making it 2-0. As we were still recovering from that Bengeo made it 3-0 with a superb long distance strike finding the top corner.

With a lack of options on the bench, and minimal pre-season training in some of our legs, it would have been easy for the Wood to write this game off but that is not our way. We fought back to gain a foothold in the game, and pulled a goal back on 75mins with a great strike of our own from Scarlett. At the other end, Abi made two incredible recovery challenges to prevent two certain goals. A few more half chances came and went, but no further goals and the match ended 1-3 to the visitors.

Despite the loss there were many positives to take from this performance. Minutes in the legs for all of the girls, brilliant attitude and work rate throughout and some glimpses of the football we know we are capable of playing. New signing Martha was a constant threat in attack, and Jess and Gabriela both stepped up superbly in midfield.

With some players back next week, and more training and matches together this group will be back up to speed and winning games in no time at all.

Player of the Match was Jess. She ran her socks off and showed calmness and class on the ball when we needed it most.

+

Our U15 girls were tasked with a very tough start to life back in D1. We faced St Albans City who have been the standout team in the county for the last 5 years. On a beautiful day at Pursley with the sun beating down the Wood girls were ready to rock & roll!

The match started at a frenetic pace with both teams trying to gain dominance, St Albans pegged us back a little territorially but we looked the most dangerous going forward.

Star striker G9 supported by flying wingers Lonaldo & new signing Maisie. Together these three caused panic and chaos in the oppo defensive line whenever we attacked.

Lightning fast Maisie was making her competitive 11 aside debut for the Wood, she has electric pace, a very keen eye for goal and an ability to see what’s best for the team; add a high energy work rate that’s infectious and you can see why big things are predicted for this girl. The back four of Elsinho, Ava, Poppy S and Theaya kept St Albans at bay with Ave in particularly feisty form, fighting the St Albans No9 for every blade of grass and winning every battle. The back four were ably helped by Yvie, Isabella & Riss.

The first goal was to come quite early, the dominant Poppy S won the ball on the edge of our area, she played a ball out to Lonaldo who controlled looked up saw G9 and then released a ball over the defence for G9 to chase. Gabby beat 3 defenders to the ball drove into the box and tried to slide one to the keeper's left. The St Albans keeper made an excellent diving save but as good players do Maisie was backing up G9 and was in the right place to tap home and open her account proper for the Wood: 1-0.

The rest of the 1st half was an arm wrestle with our midfield of Skipper Annie, Poppy N and schemer Aanya having a ding dong battle with their opponents trying to wrest control of the game, with chances for both sides coming and going and both keepers - Emily for us - making great saves.

St Albans equalised fortuitously just before half time with the girls struggling to clear our lines; when we eventually did with some very tidy midfield play the ball came straight back at us with interest. A long hoofed clearance from St Albans looped over everyone and was misjudged by Emily as it just went over her head. HT 1-1.

The second half was much of the same, Skipper Annie covering every blade of grass.

Sophie came on to try and add her excellent eye for goal, as did Yvie to try and tighten up our defence and to use her excellent passing range with Isabella & Riss adding their speed and tenacity.

St Albans were to score next with a cute ball played inside our FB and a calmly slotted finish by the winger. They then got a quick fire third which was almost a carbon copy of the first, aided by the defensive maelstrom of 3-4 players being out of position; a simple cross back across our goal and a tap in for an unmarked St Albans player.

The girls then forgot what they are made of and dropped off for a few mins, but we were not done. A change of system to 4-4-2 to try and put more pressure on the oppo’s defence seemed to work. Maisie and Aanya combined and got the ball to G9 and she beat her marker for fun, out paced the defence and slotted past the excellent St Albans keeper 2-3 and game on!! 

20 mins to go, more changes from the Wood bench to bring more attacking threat as we may as well have lost 4-2 going for it at that point. The girls tried and ran their hearts out but the St Albans GK was to pull off another goal bound save and keep her team the 3 points; 2-3 the final score.

A disappointing result as we didn’t feel outplayed or out fought but that is D1 football and you have to take your chances; on the bright side we created plenty of those and now on to next week and Goffs in the cup. 💪💪

+

Meanwhile, our U11 Girls moved from quarters to halves and the larger size 4 ball as they took on a handy and physically advanced Welwyn United side. For them, the new season kicked off bright and early on a sunny Saturday morning, and the girls were buzzing with excitement. The girls knew their stamina and persistence would be tested by the longer periods and reduced rest periods —but from the very first whistle, they showed no fear.

Led out by captain Juniper, Borehamwood hit the ground running. Their organisation was a joy to watch, with the ball confidently played out from the back. Juniper was quick to test the Welwyn keeper with a long-range effort, before Daisy delivered one of her trademark right-foot crosses that almost found the net.

Gracie stamped her authority in midfield with blistering runs and precise passes, while Maisie and Amber held firm in defence. Amber, tasked with marking a tough opponent, was fearless in the tackle and rock-solid at the back.

The breakthrough came when Daisy’s fierce strike was spilled by the keeper, leaving our number 9, Elsie, perfectly placed to slot home the opener. Soon after, Juniper saw another shot saved, and Gracie took a knock that gave Tippi the chance to enter the fray. Tippi instantly made her presence felt, linking play beautifully.

Elsie almost doubled her tally before Juniper, showing dazzling footwork down the left, hammered in a shot that was palmed away only for her to calmly tuck away the rebound. Maisie’s strength and determination in defence drew huge cheers, while Olivia in goal showed nerves of steel with some fearless stops to deny Welwyn’s attacks.

Borehamwood’s third goal was a moment of magic. Elsie produced a clever flick, spun her marker, and fired home from a tight angle - pure brilliance. Gracie, dusting herself off, returned to the pitch with renewed energy and pace down the wing.

The second half began with the same intensity. Gracie’s quick feet set up Elsie, who coolly slotted home for her hat-trick and Borehamwood’s fourth. Juniper then dropped into central midfield, orchestrating play with maturity beyond her years.

Emily took over in goal and immediately showed her class, pulling off back-to-back saves that wouldn’t have looked out of place in the WSL. Daisy’s dangerous crosses continued to cause havoc, one of which almost gave Elsie another goal with a volley that whistled just over.

As the game wore on, Borehamwood somehow found another gear. Amber stepped forward into an attacking role with confidence, driving down the wing and linking brilliantly with teammates. Elsie was unstoppable, adding two more goals in quick succession. The first was all about being in the right place at the right time, while the second was one for the highlight reels: a sharp turn, a driving run, and a sensational finish from the tightest of angles. Daisy wasn’t about to be left out of the scoring. After rattling the post earlier, she coolly finished off a flowing move sparked by Tippi’s run through midfield, taking our tally to 7.

The final whistle blew, and these magnificent girls had left everything on the pitch. Every single player contributed to a superb team performance full of energy, skill, and spirit. Their stamina and togetherness were the difference, and their never-say-die attitude was truly inspirational. A perfect start to the season—well done, girls!

+

Our U9 Boys are chomping at the bit but, have to wait a little longer with their season starting next weekend, while our U16 Boys put an early marker down with a super 5-2 home win against Wheathampstead Sharks sending them to the top of their division.

+

Our U18 Boys also faced Wheathampstead, this time away, playing 90 minutes for the first time competitively against a team a year older than them. No easy task and Wheathampstead started strongly launching long balls into the Wood's box which were attacked well by the centre back trio of Captain Ifeacho, Manning and Hones. In return, the Wood looked lively up front and it was Fearon-McDonnell who slalomed into the home box before curling a sumptuous effort past the despairing keeper's hand and into the far right corner.

Last season's top scorer Silva was looking lively and raced through to beat the keeper to the ball and slide home his first, before a period of Wood indecision and fatigue saw the concession of a cheap goal from a failed attempt to clear a corner. Unbowed, the boys responded brilliantly with Fan surging forward before picking out Silva, burying home unerringly for a 1-3 half time lead. The half closed out with Carlow making an unbelievable tackle to regain possession before sending a cruise missile whistling narrowly past the right hand stanchion. 

The action recommenced and Carlow showed an admirable team ethic to drop back into defence as the team required. However, the lack of a proper pre-season was showing in many of the performances now and it was a sluggish Wood period that saw another horrible goal conceded, with countless attempted challenges and clearances missed. It seemed Wheathampstead were building up a head of steam to draw level but, the Wood players rolled up their sleeves and got down to work.

Makamian detonated a tackle bomb, which seemed to free him to play a superb closing period with perceptive passing, turnovers and what appeared a stone wall penalty appeal that the ref chose to turn down. Green and McGuinness were equally energetic, ratting around the opposition players to force errors and regain control, while Montgomery enjoyed an excellent closing spell in the holding role, winning multiple challenges and headers as well as looking after his passing. Marshall enjoyed another steady game in goal but, was helpless as the opposition striker licked his chops just two yards out with the goal at his mercy. Collier, enjoying a solid match, thought otherwise and moved like the Flash to somehow block his shot and send it away from harm; a contribution every bit as valuable as scoring one.

All this served to motivate the entire team and everyone finished strongly with the Wood close to extending its lead many times through Ifeacho, Green, Makamian and Fearon-McDonnell. The final whistle blew and a valuable three points were secured by a Wood team that will play better but, were prepared to graft and scrap to get what we hope will be a title run up and running. MoM went to Manning, who in common with his defensive partners, put himself on the line countless times to keep the ball out, whilst also demonstrating genuine top quality on the ball.

Sunday was cup final day for the mighty Borehamwood 2000 U15 Boys vs Evergreen Tigers, the Champions from the league above. 

The Borehamwood management knew it would be a great test but also had every confidence in the squad to deliver the trophy having already beaten the teams in 2nd and 4th from the league above in previous rounds.

The talk before the game was to take it as just another game and to make sure the boys left everything on the pitch and had no regrets come Sunday evening. The talk of becoming Bwood 2000 legends hung high in the air. The heroic way they had fought back the week before to gain promotion filled the squad with a hunger and inner belief that it was in their own hands.

The Wood started slowly and it was Evergreen who pushed for the opening goal with 2000 looking slightly nervous. And it was these nerves that cost the Wood, when inside 10 minutes a stray pass found the Evergreen striker who was fantastically denied by Torshakani only for the ball to fall to the winger of Evergreen who slotted home from a tight angle. Advantage Evergreen. Evergreen then seemed to kick on and had a few half chances. The Wood needed to get a hold of the midfield and play their own game. Joyce, Gilsenan and McGregor did just this. Playing great angled passes to the ever impressive Staszewski and Sheppard. Full backs Hebblethwaite and Sutherland had started to come to terms of man marking the Evergreem danger-men on either wing and this gave the whole team a confidence to push on. 

Lennard up top started to put the centre backs under pressure and put his body on the line. It was after some courageous work down the left where he took a whack, the ball fell to Sheppard who twisted his man inside out and found the ever present Gilsenan in the middle of the park. Gilsenan after some great quick feet had a dig from 20 yards and it was too hot to handle for the Evergreen keeper to make it 1 1 and give the Wood a huge boost just when they needed it. 

The solid partnership of Adom and Fernando seemed to be becoming more and more confident as the game went on. And the Wood were purring, following a well worked goal kick, Hebblethwaite found McGregor who hit a pass that wouldn’t have looked out of place in the upper echelons of the footballing world. The threaded ball found Staszewski who dipped inside and crossed a great ball into the box, Lennard let the ball run and everyone seemed to switch off. All except one, Sheppard made a great run to the back post and tapped home to give the mighty Wood a now deserved 2 1.

Half time came and the Wood had a 2 1 lead and knew they were just 40 minutes away from legendary status and into the Bwood 2000 record books. The talk at half time bred more confidence that this game was there for the taking and another good half would see them crowned Champions. 

The 2nd half started in the same fashion. Fernando and Adom with Torshakani behind them were as solid as ever and with Hebblethwaite and Sutherland giving the Evergreen danger men nothing but aggro. The next goal would be crucial. Lennard took a few more knocks from the big centre half’s but this only seemed to rile him up, Staszewski found Lennard just inside the Evergreen half and off he went, running at pace, the defender carried on backing up, Lennard cut inside onto his right foot and drilled the ball low and hard back across the keeper to make it 3 1 and score his 30th goal of the season. The Wood team, management and fans went mad.

Smith replaced Lennard who had run himself into the ground for the team. Smith came on and was straight into the mix causing problems for both centre halfs. 

The talk from the Evergreen management was that another goal would make it squeaky bum time for the Wood. Evergreen had a chance from a corner where the centre back hit the bar. Minutes later the Wood clearly hadn’t learned their lesson and the centre half scored from a great corner into the box. This rallied the Evergreen team and management to believe that Borehamwood would now be in panic mode. 

The Wood had other ideas, Just 18 seconds from kick off the Wood went back to 2 goals up. The kick off was laid back to McGregor who played the ball deep into the Evergreen half, after some great work from Staszewski to win the ball back he pulled the ball to the edge of the box to the on rushing McGregor, the ball bounced up but McGregor wasn’t to be denied, hitting the volley across the keeper in off the post. If it was squeaky bum time that goal was the wd40 equivalent! 

Parratt came on to bring some Samba flair to the occasion for the impressive Sheppard on the right. His calm and laid back approach was just what was needed.

Somethings happen in games and it just tells you that today is your day and it can also put the final nail in another teams chances. This wasn’t from a goal or even a red card. A corner was put in from The Wood and it went deep, Parratt did well to keep the ball in. The big Evergreen centre half who was starting to get confident running the ball up the pitch latched onto the ball, Adom who had been forward for a corner sensed the danger and came across with nothing but sheer determination and power and put in a challenge that was as good as anything seen all season, drawing whoops amd cheers from all the squad, no malice, with both boys going for the ball. But my friend you have been Adomed 💣 And from this moment the game was over. 

There was still more to come from the Wood though. A deep free kick was whipped into the box and from just inside the box Gilsenan guided a header into the top corner to make it 5 2. Job done.

Mill, Chen and Murphy replaced Sutherland Staszewski and Gilsenan with 10 minutes to go to tie the game up. All 3 carried on where the other players left off with determination and quality in their performances. 

The Wood saw the game out with a solid performance that in the end was as good as it can get. The final whistle went and they had done it. League Cup champions. 

The whole squad had contributed to the cup win, four games against top opposition in every round. A special shout out to Evans who didn’t get on the pitch but is as much a part of the squad as any member.

The Wood had completed the mission, from heroes the week before gaining promotion in the last minute to becoming Wood legends winning their first Cup. What a day, what a team, what great parents and what a club.

Heroes are remembered but Legends never die 🏆⚽️😉

Borehamwood 2000 U15 Boys hosted Evergreen Hawks in the last league game of the season knowing a win or draw would be enough for them to gain promotion. A loss though would hand promotion to their opponents. The Wood were in fine form and looking forward to the game. Both teams had beaten each other 2-0 before in games this season so this was going to be a good test.

The game started at a frantic pace with the Wood going close on a couple of occasions. Evergreen looked to hit Bwood with the long ball, something they did well in the first encounter of the season.

The Wood couldn’t get into their groove and Evergreen all over the pitch just seemed to want it a bit more. Evergreen scored the first goal when a shot was charged down but deflected to the Evergreen forward who finished well to give them the lead. 0-1.

This should have woken up 2000 but they started feeling sorry for themselves and in a game like this, this wouldn’t work. Adom and Fernando defended the long ball well with the help from Hebblethwaite and Mill sweeping round well. Torshakani was called into action a couple of times and did the job. Going forward the threat of Lennard, Staszewski and Parratt weren’t having much luck and when they did get through the Evergreen keeper was equal to them.

Staszewski struck the bar from a free kick, this should have pushed the Wood forward but they were dealt a bitter blow when a cross was only half cleared and Evergreen made it 0-2. Half time followed and the Wood were shell shocked.

In the half time team talk a few home truths had to be told. Borehamwood player for player are a better footballing team but sometimes that isn’t how games are won. The Wood had to show their grit and determination and let Evergreen know that they could match them man for man with determination. With the character in the team and previous performances the Wood management and supporters knew that they were still very much in this game.

Sheppard, Sutherland and Chen came on to try to get the ball down and put the Evergreen back line under some pressure. Borehamwood started to play their passing game and started to get on top of Evergreen.

With the long ball, Evergreen were always a threat with their pace in behind. The midfield of McGregor, Joyce and Gilsenan started to play and surely it was only a matter of time till the Wood were back in the game. With 20 minutes to go in the heat, a water break was needed, the message was to give it one big push to get back in the game; a goal for Borehamwood and it would be squeaky bum time! A rousing speech from the usually quiet McGregor had the team ready to go out and give it their all. Murphy and Evans came on to push the team forward.

After some great skill in the middle of the pitch by McGregor, he released a super 30 yard ball for Lennard who went through 1 on 1 with the defender; after turning him inside out the defender lunged in and gave away a penalty. Up stepped the ever reliable Staszewski who dispatched the penalty to make it 2 1 and his 28th goal of the season. Game on.

This had the exact effect the Wood knew it would have. Evergreen, who in the first half seemed so composed were now panicking to clear everything. All over the pitch the Wood were matching Evergreen and the pressure was starting to show. With minutes to go the ball fell for Sheppard in the area who whipped the ball across the far post, this was surely the last chance for Borehamwood.

But… following a great ball into Lennard’s feet the defender was too keen to get the ball and committed a foul. 30 yards out and Staszewski stood over the ball. When most were expecting a shot, Staszewski floated a ball to the back post for Lennard to shoot across the goal from a cute angle to make it 2 2 and send the players, management and parents into delirium. 29th of the season for Lennard.

A minute later after some nervy moments, the final whistle went and the Wood had done it. Promotion secured!

These boys can play the beautiful game but also get stuck in and dig deep, they are never beaten and will give everything for each other to get a result. These strengths will hold them in good stead for their Cup final next week. Wood army ⚽️👍🏼

U16 boys went into their penultimate league game full of confidence after their win last week and were hoping to start the game against Colney Heath - the league leaders and double cup finalists - with great intent and desire.

The Wood started very well playing the ball nicely in the opposition’s half, with Crucifix, Manning and Green feeding balls to the front pair of Silva and Da Silva; unfortunately, the ball just wouldn’t go in the net.

15 mins had passed and you wouldn’t have thought we were playing the top team in the division, but, like all good teams they came back. With overwhelming power and size, Colney started to gain possession and play.

The boys struggled with the physicality of the away midfield who earned the lead after a free run of 30 yards was not closed down. With this sucker punch, the boys lost momentum and conceded two more before half time, with a lack of man-marking allowing easy shots that really should have been prevented. We spoke at half time about players having a responsibility to mark and close down shots.

With the start of the second half underway we conceded a free kick in which positioning at the back had to be questioned, disappointing after everything that had been said at half time. Therefore, we found ourselves 4 down which was then followed by a 5th goal.

Defending as a team is crucial in the modern game and centre backs Pop, Ifeacho and Hones had solid matches, not to blame for any of the goals. Hones in particular had a solid game, secured MOM and will gain much confidence from his performance but, across the board, the boys have to learn their defensive responsibilities before we can move forward as a team.

The Wood grabbed a late goal after a great bit of play from Carlow, who threaded a pass for Da Silva to slot home for his 19^th goal of what has been an excellent season personally.

On a glorious sunny day, Borehamwood 2000 Under 10 Girls travelled to face Berkhamsted Raiders for the final game of an incredible season, and what a performance they gave us!

With a small but mighty squad of just eight players, every girl knew they had to dig deep. Led out proudly by Captain and goalkeeper Gracie, the team were raring to go the moment the referee blew his whistle, and in true Borehamwood fashion, they were off like rockets!

Centre forward Elsie immediately took control, spraying clever passes out to the wings where Daisy proved to be a real danger down the left, whipping in crosses with ease. One early cross found Elsie who came agonisingly close to opening the scoring. In midfield, Maisie and Tippi were absolute warriors, winning tackle after tackle and showing incredible heart.

Borehamwood were playing some stunning football, stringing together silky passes and dominating possession, but Berkhamsted were never far from danger. Gracie kept her cool, pulling off an important series of saves, including a brilliant goalmouth clearance that kept the scores level.

It wasn’t long before Borehamwood struck. Daisy, full of pace and skill, pulled off a dazzling turn and found Elsie in the box with a pin-point pass. Elsie made no mistake, firing Borehamwood into the lead! Fuelled by confidence, Elsie almost doubled the score with a clever backwards overhead kick nearly lobbing the keeper that had everyone holding their breath.

As the second quarter began, the introduction of Polly gave Borehamwood fresh energy. Polly went on a ferocious run through the centre before being brought down, winning a free kick. Daisy, with her mighty right foot, smashed a goal bound kick, only to be denied by a Berkhamsted handball resulting in Borehamwood being awarded a penalty.

With nerves of steel, Daisy stepped up. The crowd held its breath, some unable to watch as they peered through their fingers. Calm as you like, Daisy fired it low into the bottom right corner. The Wood Army erupted in celebration!

Borehamwood weren’t finished there. Daisy turned provider again, this time finding Juniper on the right. Juniper, full of confidence, smashed home Borehamwood’s third goal with a superb strike. Juniper and Elsie linked up brilliantly, testing the Berkhamsted defence time and again.

At the back, Sienna and Maisie were rock solid. Sienna’s well-timed tackles frustrated the Berkhamsted strikers, while Maisie used her strength to shield the ball and dominate the defensive line.

In the third quarter, Sienna bravely stepped into goalkeeping duties and looked like a natural! She pulled off vital saves, none bigger than a sprawling stop to deny Berkhamsted a certain goal.

Meanwhile, Maisie moved up front and wasn’t shy to have a pop at goal, showing her versatility. Borehamwood kept pushing, with Daisy unleashing a rocket just over the bar and Elsie rattling the crossbar with a thunderous shot.

Gracie switched to defence and showed off her blistering speed to track back and protect the lead.

Entering the final quarter, the girls showed unbelievable heart. Tippi continued to dominate midfield with clever passing and tireless running, Daisy worked back selflessly to help defend, Polly dazzled with her fast-footed runs, and Gracie back in goal stayed sharp under pressure.

As the clock ticked down, Berkhamsted launched one final attack. It was striker versus goalkeeper. The shot came in hard and fast, destined for the back of the net, but Gracie stretched out a leg to pull off a sensational save! Moments later, the final whistle blew, and Borehamwood celebrated a well-deserved and hard-fought performance.

The Wood's U16 Boys had a rare Easter Sunday outing away in the league against St. Albans City today, the final match in their trilogy this season. Both teams had a win apiece and with both sides also containing free-scoring attackers, it was certainly a game to entertain.

St. Albans started fast and had several early opportunities as the Wood struggled to contain their attackers. Fortunately, these efforts flew wide or were saved by the commanding Elboukhari, exhorting his defensive players to snap into action; Carlow was taking notice and one of those heavily involved from the off.

As sometimes happens, the Wood weathered the storm and took the lead against the run of play; Silva streaking through to nutmeg the keeper and reach a quarter century of goals with 3 games still to go. McGuinness was putting in a mighty shift on the left wing and after good work from him, Da Silva, in typically tricky and outstanding form throughout, grabbed two quick goals himself, firing low each time to take his season’s tally to 18.

The Wood were in a 0-3 lead and their defensive capabilities clicked in to guard against the inevitable St. Albans response with Manning, Boshjaku and Ifeacho now much more effective, focused and tight to their opponents; one ultra committed last ditch slide tackle from Ifeacho to deny a certain goal was worth the entry fee alone! Zefi joined the action displaying very high quality play and grit in his challenges after completing a Superman like outfit change in a local phone box after arriving on-site with the wrong colour top!

Marshall tore around the pitch and seemed determine to make an impact up front, coming close to opening his account a couple of times, while Hones & Collier bolstered the midfield nicely when it started to flag, allowing the boys to take that 3 goal lead into half time.

The second half saw the game see-saw but, the Wood were making good chances and really should have scored a 4^th to seal the game. Though they didn’t, Fan was becoming influential and his left footed strike from distance was a technical effort of the highest order that the home keeper did very well to tip over the crossbar.

It is hard to bottle up an attack like St. Albans for the duration of the match and they did pull one back but, the Wood’s response was out the top drawer. Green instigated much of it and he drove into the box to fire home for his 4^th of the season and the Wood’s 4^th of the game. Many more very good chances were created and the Wood’s goal tally should have climbed but, with a healthy lead, Captain Crucefix buttressed the midfield, allowing the team to see out the match rather comfortably.

MoM went to Song, who returned after a nearly two month absence from a fractured wrist after a skiing mishap. His inherent intelligence and years of drilling saw him slip straight back into wing position and meant he was on the spot to clear danger time and again when needed. A first class effort from a brave, low maintenance and uncomplaining stalwart of our side.

This ended up a really solid performance from the squad with a big majority of the players playing near or to their full potential, though a sluggish start could have seen the game turn out differently and that needs addressing going forward. However, with their 43 goals in the top division now leading the league, the Wood are a devastating attacking unit and some of their play today on a very tricky pitch was off the highest order.

As reigning County and League champions and once again competing the County and Challenge cup finals this season, St. Albans have been a highly successful team these last few years and the Wood can take much pride in an aggregate scoreline in their favour of 11-6 against such a top side in the three games played this season. However, St. Albans are experienced in playing crucial matches and got their strongest side out when it mattered most during our recent semi-final, progressing as a result. With a view to next season, and with the expectation that big, season defining games will be played around Easter, the Wood can make a big jump just by having our players available at this crucial stage of the season, with the same being true of pre-season also, another key period for any footballer hoping to perform highly.

U16 Boys today played the semi-final of the WFL Challenge Cup at Pursley, hoping to make this prestigious final for the first time in the club’s history, having progressed this far with wins over Maccabi, AC Finchley and Whetstone. Standing in their way were reigning County Champions, St. Albans City, a side that has dominated for some years but, one the Wood had bested 5-2 recently. As such, the boys knew they could come out on top with a good performance even if several influential players were missing or impacted by Easter holidays.

The team started fast and were quickly into a 2-0 lead, with Fan once again delivering the goods; controlling brilliantly with his left and then sending a stunning strike into the goal off the left-hand post. Soon after, the excellent Manning showed his undoubted quality with instant control on his right thigh before a sweetly struck volley with his left found the net after Silva had delivered an excellent set play. Two goals of the very highest quality.

St. Albans were reeling and the match was there for the taking but, the Wood’s defensive qualities were tested and, on this occasion, despite getting to the ball first each time, the boys shipped three goals that you just can’t concede at this level and expect to progress. The second half saw the Wood stabilise defensively but, the side’s offensive opportunities were limited and the match ended 2-3.

It wasn’t to be today, but, the boys showed character and can be proud of their cup run. The team has struggled defensively all season but, contains defenders with genuine potential that can and will perform consistently in the future; they’ve loads of time to hone their skills and improve.

MoM went again to Elbouhkari who enjoyed another outstanding match between the sticks and was totally blameless for the goals conceded. He has showed the perfect example of what can be achieved quickly with the right mindset, raising his performance levels with hard work and determination whilst also displaying formidable and natural leadership qualities. Without doubt he is making the transition from boy to man and as his team-mates do the same, they will all go forward together and achieve great things in the game.

-

Our U10 Girls played Evergreen Dragons at Pursley today on a wonderfully sunny morning.

Two big stories dominated proceedings with Manager Gareth thankfully recovering very nicely after an op and Wood legend Ruby playing what would be her last match for the club before departing for pastures new. Without doubt, the girls were highly motivated to put on a great performance and the Wood’s fan base nodded approvingly as their daughters’ smeared woad across their faces and uttered mysterious runic chants before heading into the fray!

Evergreen is a first class and formidable side, with quality players across the park. A very consistent keeper, powerful defenders that clear the lines well, midfielders with an eye for a pass and very rapid and tricky attackers. The Wood knew a fast start was vital to compete against them and despite the searing heat ran hard from the off.

In goal, Olivia and Emily dovetailed superbly and supported each other so beautifully on and off the pitch. Olivia was brave as a lioness, handling really well and launching herself fearlessly into the mix when studs were flying, while Emily transformed herself into Zebedee, springing about to make not one, but, two point blank saves as well as launching huge kicks down the field.

Ahead of them Maisie & Captain Polly were like the Great Wall of China, making an insurmountable defensive barrier to stop the dangerous Evergreen attackers from getting too near the Wood goal. In this, they were aided superbly by Amber, who also played an exciting cameo up-front, showing she has the ability to play with her back to goal as well as when the play is in front of her.

In midfield, Gracie and Ruby, were wearing down the studs on their boots, so much ground were they covering, driving forward with real intent, while on the wings Daisy and Juniper were oozing quality and displaying inexhaustible endurance as they did the hard yards, running back and forth, up and down the pitch. With Elsie twinkling gracefully up front with the ball, a constant attacking menace to the opposition, the Wood were looking so good.

The match was tight as two coats of paint as these two sets of formidable girls went back and forth. Chances came and went but, the Wood grabbed their first goal after Ruby was first to the ball and surged forward to find Daisy. She switched play brilliantly to pressure the Evergreen right flank and after several throws and corners from this side were cleared, Elsie whizzed a super cross into Juniper, who, sharp as a tack, buried the ball home. She then sprinted approximately two thousand yards before an exultant punch into the air!

The Wood were buzzing now and Ruby, again reacting quickest, drove the ball forward to Elsie. She controlled the ball expertly and then swivelling her head like an owl, picked out a sublime and visionary reverse pass for Daisy, who galloped through into space to smash the ball home; a goal of the very highest order!

There was yet more as Amber and Polly both put in big defensive challenges to send the ball forward. Then we saw such clever football from girls that were really switched on. Daisy’s fast throw after the ball had gone out, Ruby’s rapid ball winning and quality snap shot, Elsie staying in the game to force the ball home faster than anyone else. It was really first class stuff.

After another outstanding officiating display, Dave the Ref blew the whistle on a fantastic game of football. Juniper deservedly picked up OPoM while who else but, Ruby secured PoM after a typically brilliant and thoroughly exciting display. The girls had delivered just the performance they wanted for both Gareth and Ruby; a job very well done.

Courtesy of the latest satellite link technology, Manager Gareth conducted a post-match interview with The Borehamwood and Shenley Argus immediately after the game and said “This group of girls keeps improving and their drive and passion today was incredible; I am so proud of them and can’t wait to meet up again at our next training session; I’ve missed them so much. A glorious day is tinged with a little sadness as one of our beloved stalwarts is moving on. I’d just like to say that Ruby has been a true asset to Borehamwood 2000. Her dazzling footwork has played a huge part in the team’s rapid success, and from a personal perspective, she’s always been an absolute joy to coach. Her infectious smile and brilliant personality have made her a firm favourite among teammates and parents alike. She will be truly missed. I also want to thank mum Kelly for her unwavering support; come rain or shine, she’s been there at every training session and match. Thank you for everything and we wish you both all the very best of luck!”

With that, he popped another grape in his mouth, sunk a glug of Lucozade, and wondered how he could sneak out for a jog without the nurses seeing!

_

U14 Girls completed their season today with a tough last game at home vs champions elect and cup finalists Bedwell Dragons. The teams had already played twice this season with Bedwell winning both games by the odd goal: 3-2 and 4-3.

Bedwell has a very good squad with a very talented core to their team: with an excellent CB, a very good midfielder in No 15, and probably the most complete striker in the league in their No9. However, Bedwell’s No9 was our main issue as she alone has scored 10 goals against us this season; collectively we couldn’t find a way of stopping her rare mix of skill, pace and fantastic finishing ability. We had tried 4-3-3 overloading the Bedwell defence and that game we probably should have won but lost 3-2. We then tried 3-5-2 with an extra man up front but we lost 4-3. So today we tried something new with our normal 4-5-1 formation but going man for man against the excellent No9. A tough job for a very particular player and the the only player in our ranks with the correct physical attributes of pace, tenacity, strength and defensive awareness was Isabella.

‘Today we must get something’ was the message around the group! We started very well as per usual and looked a yard quicker across the park than Bedwell. The game was going our way but could we keep the Reds out? Well, if G9 and Aandinho were to have anything to do with it, it was going to be a ‘yes’! Aanya, our silly skilled schemer who splits defences with precision passes like De Bruyne found G9 who raced onto the through ball to score a fantastic low finish into the corner for 1-0 Wood.

No sooner done and the same two players were at it again; 2-0 the Wood, and complete domination of a very, very good Bedwell side at this point. Wave after wave of attacks and we should have been out of site: Karadonna shot and should have scored from inside the box, Lolnaldo had the chance of a snap shop on her favourite left but came back to her right and the chance fizzled out.

Skipper Annie was patrolling the 18 yd box looking for any half chances to let a long range effort fly. Elsinho was dancing down her wing and the back 5 looked as solid as the Great Wall of China today! Yvie , Theaya and Skippy were superb and had loads of time to play and fill in because of Isabella taking the Bedwell danger woman out of the picture. It can’t be highlighted enough what a sterling job Isabella did for the team today, limiting the No9 to maybe one shot at goal all day. With their best player subdued, Bedwell couldn’t find another way to unlock our back door.

Hazel and Poppy came into the fray and both brought energy and drive. Pops got a couple of shots on goal and Hazel brought her superb power running and energy to the team, turning provider for G9’s hat trick with a great first time pass behind the back four and releasing Gabby to wreak havoc in the away defence. 3-0 the Wood and only 32 mins gone.

With half time fast approaching the girls switched off and gave up the only chance Bedwell had in the first half and this very good side didn’t need asking twice and slotted home to make it a different game at HT: 3-1.

The second half should have been a formality down the hill but we conspired to make it hard for ourselves. Granted, the wind seemed to change and pen us in a little at 3-1 but the girls held out and kept the danger player quiet!

We didn’t have to wait to long for our fourth of the day made and finished by Hazel’s hustle; chasing down and harrying the defence, she stole the ball in the box and was tripped from behind. Hazel stepped up and smashed the pen into the corner of the net for 4-1 Wood.

The crowd was going wild now as we’d been hurt in the previous two games vs Bedwell, with such close games going their way, today felt like justice. Bedwell were able to nick a second on 68 mins when we had just switched off again and stopped playing football. Today’s POM was the magnificent Aanya and a special mention to Isabella who’s destructive work set the platform for the team to play.

The U15 Boys Wood army headed over to a strong Kings Langley side today, currently sitting top of the league above, for their hotly anticipated semi final.

The 3G pitch was in perfect condition for the occasion and Borehamwood 2000 were looking to emulate the recent success of the other Borehamwood sides. The Wood knew they were a match for their opponents but knew it would take a good performance to come out on top.

2000 started with a few nerves and found it hard to get into their rhythm. The first goal came for the hosts when a long ball was flicked on behind the Wood defence, The Kings Langley forward finished well to make it 1-0. This Wood side were not going to be beaten that easily though and rolled their sleeves up, starting to fight back into the game with Captain Adom pushing the team forward.

Wingers Sheppard and Staszewski where always a threat. Lennard, the woods top scorer always looked dangerous. The Wood had turned the tide and went close to an equaliser when McGregor received a pass from Sutherland only to be denied by the post and then by a great save from the keeper.

The screw was being tightened and minutes later the equaliser came. Following some good work in the middle of the park from Joyce and Gilsenan, the ball fell to the classy Staszewski who after passing his man had his shot turned onto the bar and into the path of Sheppard who scored the header from a yard out.

Kings Langley continued with the long ball behind the back 4 but this was defended well by Hebblethwaite and Torshakani on a couple of occasions, with Torshakani making a fine save from close range to deny Kings Langley the lead just before half time.

The Wood knew at half time that the game was there for the taking if they could just get a firm grip on the game. The second half started and the Wood centre back pairing of Adom and Fernando had seemingly worked out how best to stop the Kings' attack with the help of Sutherland and the fresh legs of Mill. But it was Kings Langley who again took the lead, again a long ball and flick on found the forward through on goal and despite the best efforts of Torshakani it went 2-1 to the hosts.

With the spirit the boys have and ability they posses this was by far no means over. Gilsenan, Joyce and McGregor started to get on the ball and switch play to the wingers. The strong and powerful Smith had replaced the ever willing Sheppard on one wing and the Rolls Royce better know as Staszewski was really starting to purr. It was the latter who forced the equaliser. Following a great ball from Gilsenan, Staszewski cut inside the full back only to be pulled to the ground in the area to be awarded a penalty. Staszewski dusted himself off to dispatch the keeper the wrong way and make it 2-2!

The game had 10 minutes to go and there would be chances at either end. With a minute to go Torshakani kept his team in the game with a great save. The game was heading to penalties. After 5 years, it would be the first time this side faced a penalty shootout, but the confidence the boys showed in the pre-penalty huddle had the management team convinced they could do the job!

Kings Langley scored, 1 0

Staszewski stepped up, 1 1

Kings Langley scored (but Torshakani was getting close)

Lennard stepped up, 2 2

Kings Langley… Save by Torshakani to his left.

Joyce stepped up, 3 2. Advantage Wood army.

Kings Langley…. Saved again, Torshakani was on fire!

Gilsenan to win it……. Never in doubt, 4 2, cue pandemonium. The Wood had done it and made their first cup final!!

The game was very nervy and both teams competed well but this Wood side has no quit in them. To be behind twice and still push for the win shows what they are made of. Parratt and Evans may not have got on today but the support they showed on the side, sums the team up, they are all in it together and have each others' backs through thick and thin.

Roll on the cup final in May and a big push for promotion in the next few games. Two very proud coaches and parents after the game today.

Wood Army 👊🏼⚽️

+

Our U16 Boys played the quarter final of the Challenge Cup against Whetstone Tigers on a fine day at Pursley. The boys have faced this opponent many times over the last couple of seasons and despite leading comfortably on many occasions, had yet to record a victory over what is a streamed side from a massive grassroots club with no less than four teams at this age group. However, this tells only half the story as Whetstone have profited as much as anyone from the Wood’s self-inflicted defensive mistakes and the away team’s tactics from the start was to continue launching long balls forward in an effort to continue this bounty.

The Wood had other ideas though and started so fast, as expected from a team topping the league’s goal-scoring charts. Silva was in magnificent form up front, clearly highly motivated, and he grabbed an early goal with his swinger, slotting home right footed from Fan’s tremendous early through ball after excellent work from Crucefix, which followed Boshjaku’s smart throw.

Like lions on the scent of a wounded bison, the Wood surged forward, the excellent Carlow, dominating in the air and on the deck, winning the ball centrally. Captain Crucifix was on it in a flash and sent a tremendous long pass forward for Silva to gather up. He rounded his defender like he didn’t exist and then played the perfect cross for Da Silva to finish with class; a goal of the very highest quality.

Next Collier forced a mistake to secure a Wood throw. Boshjaku, switched on like the West End’s Christmas lights, took a super long throw that Whetstone could only flick towards Silva. Despite having 40 yards to run, that was the end of that as he strode forward, calmly slotting low and home with his left foot this time; a brace of great quality from a hugely talented player.

Whetstone were reeling now as so many teams are when feeling the power of the Wood’s offensive play, and their only response was to kick long. This consistent tactic once again yielded a goal, a free kick far out wide just floated straight into the goal after catching a gust of wind.

The second half saw a bit of a stalemate as the Wood dealt with the many long balls sent their way; with the superb Boshjaku, Ifeacho and Carlow particularly effective at sending them away to safety. The Wood were still dangerous though and no more so than MoM Green, who was buzzing up and down the right wing, making important defensive interventions whilst still testing the away keeper the other end. Makamian on the other side, was winning his team important free kicks to disrupt Whetstone’s momentum and firing in good crosses of his own; the balance of the team was good.

Everything was under control until a silly shove in the back saw Whetstone awarded another free kick, just exactly what they were looking and the proliferation of such free kicks could only hurt the Wood and was really the only way Whetstone could get back into the game. Sure enough, take two followed, as the ball curled in from the side, caught the wind and sailed straight into the Wood net. It had the feel of conversions in a rugby match but, the Wood dusted themselves down and didn’t panic.

The clock was running down and chances for Green and Da Silva were saved by the away keeper before yet another Whetstone free kick was brilliantly cleared at the last gasp by the impressive Manning, staying wide awake and totally focused as several Whetstone players descended on him. This proved a crucial intervention and the Wood didn’t look back. Fan won the ball, raced up the pitch to receive Silva’s return. His cross bounced wickedly and after Green had cleverly blocked the keeper, Da Silva did what he does best; reacting in a flash to bury the ball home, seal the match and send the Wood’s into the Challenge Cup semi final! He then did a peculiar thing; morphing into a large chicken before swan-diving to the ground. How bizarre!!

All boys in attendance did a great job today. Superior to their opponents technically, things were made so much harder by the constant stream of free kicks conceded naively and unnecessarily and we need to cut them out and deal with the resulting long balls far better than we managed today, albeit with the wind making this harder than usual. Even so though, the boys are purring in attack, improving quickly in midfield and looking much more solid defensively and they deserve their place in the semis of this blue riband Cup competition.

Their opponents in the semi finals are St. Albans City, current Red Division holders, current County Champions and once again finalists this term. Most teams would be quaking at this draw, but, not the Wood, not at all. We enjoy ourselves now, take pride in what we’ve achieved and then train hard to remain unbeaten from now until the season’s end.

+

On a glorious sunny day, Borehamwood 2000 U10 Girls hosted LGDA Fire Girls in what turned out to be a fantastic display of skill, determination, and teamwork. The improvements this team has made in such a short time were evident from the very first whistle, as they took to the pitch with confidence and a growing understanding of the game.

Captain Gracie led the team out in high spirits, setting the tone for a high-energy start. It didn’t take long for Borehamwood to show their attacking intent, as Elsie made a dazzling run down the wing, threading a beautiful pass to Gracie, whose shot went just wide. Elsie, continuing to cause trouble for the LGDA defence, unleashed a powerful long-range effort that was brilliantly saved by the opposition goalkeeper.

LGDA responded with attacking pressure of their own, but Borehamwood’s defence was up to the challenge. Maisie was immense, making crunching tackles to halt the opposition, while Polly was ever-present at the back, making vital clearances to keep LGDA at bay. Elsie continued her fine form with a pinpoint cross to Gracie, only to be denied once again by an outstanding LGDA keeper. The breakthrough seemed imminent.

Daisy added a fresh spark on the right wing, showcasing her pace and skill with an inch-perfect cross, keeping the LGDA defenders on their toes. As the game entered the second quarter, Borehamwood introduced Anisia and Sienna in defence. Anisia wasted no time clearing her lines efficiently, while Sienna took command at the back, making a spectacular headed clearance right on the goal line.

In midfield, Tippi was composed under pressure, finding clever passes to feed the strikeforce, while Ruby dazzled with her footwork and dribbling skills, weaving through defenders with ease. As Borehamwood settled into their rhythm in the third quarter, their attacking play flourished. The defenders pressed higher up the pitch, creating even more opportunities for the forwards.

Daisy came agonisingly close to scoring, her powerful strike rattling the post. Undeterred, she picked herself up and delivered a perfect pass to Elsie, who blasted home Borehamwood’s first goal of the game. The crowd erupted!

The Wood's attacks were flowing now and the strikers were relishing the moment. Daisy continued to dominate the right flank, providing assist after assist. Elsie battled hard to win possession and set up Juniper, who coolly slotted in Borehamwood’s second goal, celebrating in style with the home fans.

Moments later, Elsie turned provider once again, sending a brilliant long pass to Juniper, whose strike, unfortunately, struck the post. The woodwork had now denied Borehamwood twice, but their confidence remained unshaken. At the other end, Amber’s relentless work ethic and bravery ensured LGDA were kept at bay, preventing them from breaking through.

As the match entered its final quarter, Borehamwood knew they had to be rock solid in defence to protect their lead. Sienna and Anisia worked tirelessly at the back, with a clear plan to shut down LGDA’s attacks. The visitors pressed forward, causing a scramble in the Borehamwood box, but Olivia stood tall, producing a string of outstanding saves, including a crucial one-on-one stop. The tension was palpable.

Maisie put on a midfield masterclass, tracking back to support the defence while also bursting forward to trouble the LGDA defenders with her speed. Ruby won a free kick after a tough challenge, and Tippi stepped up, sending a long ball towards the forwards, only for the LGDA defence to intercept just in time. Sienna displayed true grit with fearless tackles, and Anisia’s intelligent clearances proved crucial in maintaining Borehamwood’s advantage. Daisy continued to mesmerize with her solo runs, while Ruby’s quick turn and pass found Juniper, whose shot hit the side netting.

As the final whistle blew, an exhausted but jubilant Borehamwood 2000 celebrated a great match, beaming with pride, while plaudits went also to the LGDA players and staff who showed so much quality and class all match long. This performance was a testament to how far our girls have come in such a short time - a true showcase of the rewards of hard work, dedication, and teamwork.

Player of the Match: Ruby – for her wizardry on the ball and unselfish passing, making a huge impact throughout the game.