The Word In The Wood

Our U15 Boys produced a vintage performance last week as they returned to action against Berkhamsted Green in the league. The lads smashed in 6 goals and kept a clean sheet in a pitch perfect performance.

This setup two tough games against a tasty Evergreen side, the first off which was played today away. In a very tight and evenly managed match, Evergreen sneaked home with a 2-0 win, however, our boys were really good value throughout and will be looking to even the score next week when they host them at home in the quarter final of the Intermediate Cup!

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U16 Boys faced AC Finchley South from the White division in the 3rd round of the Challenge Cup, but, regardless of the competition, the match was an opportunity to restore some pride after a sobering defeat last week.

The boys have been trained ceaselessly to get to the ball first in all situations in a football match and also know that movement off the ball is crucial for any footballer hoping to perform highly. Of course, knowing this and executing it are two different things and, sadly, the start of this game saw too many boys on their heels, with poor touches and many players only moving when they were in possession of the ball, invisible without it and no help to their team-mates in these moments. The inevitable happened and the Wood conceded first: possession gifted cheaply, a foul conceded when favourite to win the ball, the wall showing a lack of courage to break with a tame free-kick deflecting into the net off a Wood back.

The Wood fought back with a very high quality goal as Captain Crucefix drilled a forward pass that the impressive Fan plucked out of the sky to beat his man before producing a finish of the highest order to level the game. Still the tempo and approach was not right though and another goal found the Wood net, the opposition drifting in unopposed from the Wood’s right and then profiting from gaps on the Wood’s left flank to score. The boys came in 1-2 at half time against a game but, limited opposition. Nothing less was to be expected when training and instructions are discarded and a majority of players don’t pull their weight.

However, today’s match served as a perfect example of not only what can be lost through bad habits but, what can also be achieved when players’ approach and execution matches or exceeds the levels expected. A fantastic half of football followed with the Wood displaying all their very best attributes: front foot football, pressing in groups, first to the ball, tough in the tackle, passing simply and unselfishly, quality finishing and everyone playing for each other and doing their bit.

Elboukhari bossed it between the sticks, not putting a foot or hand wrong and barking out instructions like a parade ground sergeant. MoM Pop gave everything at centre half and produced a tremendous defensive display. Zefi worked tirelessly in the middle and oozed class on the ball, allowing the team to start controlling the match through possession of the ball. McGuinness not letting up as he produced a massive shift on the wing. Just as inevitably as before, but, this time as a positive, the Wood grabbed the game by the scruff of its neck, crushed the opposition and dominated the match.

The match was levelled after Collier picked up the ball in midfield after good work from Carlow and Green. He slalomed forward to smash a venomous shot on target with Green doing really well to continue his run and arrive perfectly to rifle home the keeper’s parried save. Da Silva was then razor sharp as beat down a Finchley clearance and hammered the ball home to put the Wood in front.

Da Silva now worked a chance to Silva, whose shot was parried by the away keeper; this time it was Makamian sniffing the opportunity and he slotted home nicely for 4-2. Makamian then hunted down the ball with Da Silva, who slipped in Silva to dance around the Finchley defence before sliding home a composed finish for 5-2.

Crucefix regained possession in the next play, freeing Zefi and Fan to pass the ball beautifully and present Silva with another chance that he gobbled up after rounding the keeper and then Fan produced a massive challenge, the ball rebounding to Silva who fired home another excellent low shot for his hatrick.

One final goal was produced and it was top quality coming on the counter from a Finchley corner. Zefi won the first clearance, Pop the subsequent header, Makamian pounced thereafter to slip in Silva. His pass to Da Silva, his cute lay-off allowing another simple Silva pass, bamboozling the away defence and presenting Fan with a chance he expertly took, completing his brace and an excellent individual performance as the ball smashed home off the right hand post. A super goal created in 15 seconds and 7 passes from one end to the other.

The half finished 7-0, the game finished 8-2 and the Wood could have scored many more besides. How then was the second half so different to the first? Nothing more than a change in mindset from talented players that decided to dig deep and follow their training. We continue to work on that mindset going forward but, can look forward to a big quarter final in February. Well done to the lads.

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The Wood’s U15 girls continued their fine run of form with a well deserved and extremely valuable win against current league leaders Brook House.

Having lost the reverse fixture back in September we knew what to expect from Brook House and, with eyes on the top of the table, we knew we would have to play well and be up for a physical battle.

We started the game brightly and you got the sense immediately that the game was there to be won. That became even more apparent when we took the lead on 5 minutes. A sweeping cross field ball by Abi found Amie on the right wing. She cut inside with neat football and slipped a ball through to Milly who then shrugged off two defenders before unleashing a superb strike into the very top corner. 1-0 and game on!

The game then fell into a pattern of the Wood playing neat football and pushing for a second goal, whilst also dominating in midfield and at the back to prevent the visitors getting back into the game. Brook House generated some pressure towards the end of the second half but keeper Nisa was rarely called into action, with the back four of Lenj, Amy, Abi and Lily completely in control. 

A spate of injuries for the visitors and stoppages to the game disrupted our flow at times but we continued to dominate into the second half and we knew that a second goal would be too much for the visitors to come back from. We got the perfect opportunity to do that on 60mins when we were awarded a penalty after Scarlett was fouled by the onrushing keeper. Abi stepped up to take the kick but saw it saved and the score remained 1-0.

With a strong squad available we were able to rotate players and keep the energy and momentum going. The visitors were at times hanging on and a desperate last minute foul on Milly on the edge of the box summed up how the game was going. The visitors were stubborn in defence, to their credit, and after playing a direct style of football on the “counter attack” the game remained in the balance. Thankfully our back four dealt with absolutely everything and were completely flawless all game so we were able to see out  the match without the visitors registering a meaningful shot on target. This is great testament to how well we played and also how far we have come since we lost to Brook House in September.  We lost that game 1-0 but it could easily have been more and we were bullied out of the game. This week it was the complete opposite and for that we are so so proud of the girls.

Player of the match this week goes to Milly who was excellent all game and scored a goal of the season contender to win the game for us. All of the girls were amazing, just like last week, and we have become a hard team to beat…which is just as well as we have some massive games coming up!

The league table now looks favourable and we are still in the county cup so all to play for!

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U14 girls had a tough quarter final in the Junior League cup today against a good Ware side.

Hoping that league standings would count for something the girls came out of the blocks like Olympic sprinters with the front 3 of G9, Lonaldo and Elsinho causing mayhem in the Ware defence. It wouldn’t be long before G9 broke free and showed her class and growing maturity in front of goal; steadying herself and passing the ball into the net with a sublime finish past the keeper for 1-0 Wood!

As the girls worked hard for goal number two there were glimpses of a new midfield powerhouse emerging in front of our eyes! Poppy N is learning a new position as the Borehamwood Busquets, holding and promoting play as a deep ball playing CDM. In only her second outing in this position she won POM in an excellent display of skill and composure under pressure, always in the right place at the right time and able to find a white shirt. This in turn freed skipper Annie, Kara or Aanya to dictate the play further forward.

We had a debut today from Jet, a very silkily skilled ball playing midfielder who will add a lot of class to our engine room. The back 5 consisted of Emily in goal with RB Yvie  and LB Theaya and our two CBs of Yvie & Poppy S; add in the excellent Isabella (who was her tenacious, all guns blazing self) and this proved a very formidable unit. These girls gave Ware no quarter and stopped them from breaking our lines with some excellent defensive displays.

Theaya, with an excellent front foot forward attack won the ball high off the Ware right midfielder and was able to find teammate Lonaldo, who beat her marker and smashed an unstoppable effort in the top bins!

Heading towards half time with the game in our palms, the girls over-elaborated playing out and got caught, giving Ware a free pass pack Into the game. The half ended 2-1 and the team talk was heavy on how we should react to any situations we find ourselves in so the girls where prepped and ready. We decided to change our shape second half to get both our two No 9s - Gabby & Sophie - on the pitch, to try to force the all important next goal. This 3-5-2 formation paid dividends pretty quickly as the double threat up front pushed Ware back deeper and helped our midfield keep them penned in.

Some fine one-two passing released Sophie who timed and angled her run to perfection, then looped the ball over the Ware GK for the important third, opening her Wood account and giving us daylight between the sides: 3-1.

The girls started to dominate the game more readily now with Aanya and Poppy seeming to be on the ball every second. Karadonna was finding lots of good positions as was Elsinho &  Hazzie but the ball just didn’t seem to fall for them today.

The Wood’s 4th was to come from an excellent long drive into the bottom corner from schemer Aanya; that’s two in two for this exciting young lady with tricks for days she is an absolute pleasure to watch! The girls’ 5th goal was to come with 5 mins to go from G9 who found space in the area after good work from Hazel and she buried the ball into the Ware goal with a powerful close range effort.

All in all it was a really good run out for the team and securing a semi final place is a big achievement; the girls are now on the verge of greatness and will be going all out to make that final!

After weeks of frozen ground, the Wood's juniors finally returned to action this weekend.

The Wood's U15 girls were back in action in the Herts FA County Cup quarter final this weekend after a prolonged winter break from matches.

No games for 5 weeks but the girls have been training well, in all weathers, and came into this game in good shape. Our hosts are currently going well at the top of Division 1 in the Bedfordshire Girls League so we knew this would be a very tough game for our newly formed team.

It was clear from the start that the condition of the pitch was not going to permit either team to play perfect football but to their credit both teams kept trying to get the ball down and play football the right way, in amongst a host of well contested individual battles all across the park.

Berko caused as a few early problems from well worked corners, but other than that Nisa in goal was very well protected by the formidable back four of Lenj, Abi, Amy and Lily. The midfield shield of Missy and the ever exuberant Scarlet also made us very difficult to break down.

You got a sense that the first goal was going to be key to this game and we got our noses in front on 30 minutes when a long free kick from Abi somehow managed to evade the Berko keeper and loop into the net. This was perhaps a fortunate way to score but you can’t say it wasn’t deserved.

Our defence provided a platform that allowed our attacking players confidence to keep playing and keep driving forward. Hollie in particular in the first half showed great composure on the ball and linked the play nicely. Driving runs down the left by Lily, Milly and Yasmin kept forcing us up the pitch but we couldn’t get the 2nd goal we deserved before the break. The message at half time was to keep doing exactly what we were doing, keep the energy and work rate up and keep pushing for the next goal. In the second half we stepped up another gear.

Yasmin was setting the tone with some surging runs and good use of the ball, and Annie and then Amie on the opposite flank were giving her opponent no time to breath either. Jess was by now adding a nice sense of calm to the midfield and keeping the ball moving as space started to open up.

On 52 minutes a surging run by Milly followed by a nice through ball allowed Louella to calmly slot home our second goal of the game. It was no more than we deserved and from then on it was a case of staying resolute at the back and seeing if we could close the game off as a contest.

To their credit the hosts kept on going. A change of shape for them pushed another player forward but our defensive unit worked tirelessly to restrict them to few clear chances. Going the other way we kept three players high so we were always a threat on the break and should really have closed the game out with a third. We didn’t manage another goal but it didn’t matter. We had done enough and march on to the semi-final with a fantastic 2-0 win!

This was a true team performance in every way. All 14 players were immense and we are all so proud of the attitude, the desire and commitment shown to win us this game.

Player of the match could genuinely have gone to any of them to be honest but, was rather controversially shared between two players! Abi, Amy and Yasmin were all superb and particularly unlucky not to get it this week. Lily B was the pick of the bunch of the defenders, and also fantastic going forward so she got the nod this week. The other POM was Missy, who was quite simply everywhere and won tackle after tackle which was key to everything we wanted to do today.

This was a super performance against a very good side, on a very difficult pitch, so the girls should all be really proud of themselves for this win, but also for how they have grown together into a formidable team in such a short space of time.

We face Division 1 Hitchin away (again) in the semi-final which we know will be a very tough game but these girls are certainly up the challenge and we look forward to that fixture in February. In the meantime it’s back to league action against top of the table Brook House next week for another tough game.

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The U16 Boys started 2025 away to AEK in the league, looking for a fresh start and really needing the points to move away from the relegation places and breathe some momentum into a campaign that has promised much but, yielded little as yet.

On a difficult surface far away in Enfield, the boys played a really good first half. Of the starting line-up, keeper El-Boukhari was vocal and efficient; Manning, Boshjaku & new team captain Crucefix, were solid in defence; Makamian and Song were diligent on the wings; Carlow, Green and Fan were industrious in the midfield, while Ifeacho and Da Silva looked a threat up-front. They were joined through the half by Silva, Collier, Hones, Marshall and Zefi, who all entered the fray with purpose, all making excellent cameos.

AEK scored a quality individual effort when their midfielder was given too much time unchallenged but, he had loads to do before letting fly from distance, his shot rocketing into the top corner. In return the Wood had several chances and after good work from Song and Ifeacho, Makamian saw his shot saved when the goal loomed large, while Silva and Da Silva had efforts on target too but, these lacked the pace to beat the assured home keeper. However, the match was very balanced and the Wood took to the field second half feeling good and confident that they could go on and win.

The Wood started fast with Hones picking out a lovely crossfield pass for Da Silva to fire narrowly wide. Fan then hit a fierce strike that was pushed smartly to the side by the home keeper, sufficiently wide to make the rebound difficult for Silva who was unable to fire home. The same guy then displayed very good handling when managing to hold a swerving Collier free kick and these inteventions were crucial in thwarting the Wood whilst providing a platform for AEK to win a corner on their first attack of the half. This was poorly taken but, somehow still got bundled into the net, the boys seemingly stunned and unrecovered when another rank effort somehow squeezed home very shortly after.

At 3-0 down, the Wood needed a goal badly but, Silva’s excellent cross sailed through the AEK box unchallenged to safety while Da Silva shot high when put through by Makamian's reverse pass. AEK then proceeded to run riot, scoring three more abject goals as the Wood totally capitulated as a defensive unit; the match ended 6-0, becoming easily the worst half of football this side has ever played. There were positives though and the biggest was Carlow’s outstanding debut performance in the holding midfield role, winning countless headers and challenges whilst showing real quality on the ball.

The boys face AC Finchley South next in the Challenge Cup which is now the only hope of silverware remaining to them this season. It will be interesting to see their reaction to today’s performance in that game and the remaining league matches? Today’s disappointments and shortcomings could drive the squad forward to train harder, to compete more and play with greater desire, and certainly, this path forward offers a chance of future success that could see today’s result become a blip and distant memory in the not to distant future. Alternatively, the boys could choose to go through the motions again, become statues when off the ball, shirk responsibility, hide and continue to come second best to other boys just like themselves. Unfortunately, this path offers nothing constructive or worthwhile and the future of this team must be in doubt if that path is chosen?

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Our U14 girls had a tough away day vs Goffs Oak after an enforced 7 week lay off this afternoon. The Wood started quickly and tried to stamp their authority on the game especially after a recent tight 3-1 home win against Goffs, not so long ago. Goffs are a decent side with some very skilful attacking players and some uncompromising defenders.

The Goffs GK won POM today as she was outstanding in keeping a myriad of Wood attempts from crossing her line. The wood were to take the lead from a beautifully composed finish after some great work by ‘Il Phenomenon’, our G9 Gabby with an assist from Karadonna.

This was a deserved lead but Goffs were looking dangerous and it wasn’t long before their own star striker launched a 25yd screamer into the top corner for 1-1. Territorially, Goffs just had the advantage in the first half, with the lion’s share of attempts on goal created by the Wood, so 1-1 at HT would have been a fair score. However, we know football is never fair and with super skipper Annie doing some sterling work cleaning up in front of the defence of Emily in goal then Yvie, Ava , Poppy S and Theaya the back four, the ball somehow broke loose and was between two white shirts; neither took command of the situation this time and it gave Goffs the sniff at goal and the 2-1 HT lead with a neat finish.

At HT we talked about the importance of the next goal on the game and also how we would react if Goffs scored it. The girls’ positivity, commitment and desire shone through in this moment and they knew their task. The second half started and Lola was tormenting the Goffs RB and new signing Sophie K making her long awaited debut looked a real threat in front of goal.

Poppy N playing in a new holding midfield role looked like prime Busquets at times today spraying the ball around the pitch with aplomb! Today was a day where we talked about overplaying and causing ourselves issues. We did this at times today and in the wrong central areas which in turn coughed up chances on our goal. Goffs were to go 3-1 up with one such effort that crept into our net.

Could we now hold our heads up and refuse to buckle, stay in the fight and get ourselves a foothold in the game? Yes we could!! Aanya one of the most naturally gifted players in the league picked the ball up 30 yds out, beat one player, shimmied and dropped a shoulder to get half a yard before unleashing a drive into the corner of the net: 3-2 and game on! This goal dented Goffs who thought they had won at 3-1; they hadn’t and were not prepared for the storm coming their way. We had prepared for this at HT so we all knew what to do and how we’d do it.

The girls were now fighting like banshees for every ball, thunderous tackles to the left and to the right! Yvie in one such challenge limped off with blood dripping from her ankle as she shook her fist in determination 👊🤬 to get the next goal. Poppy N was having more say as the game wore on driving at the Goffs’ defence numerous times and on one occasion she fed Lonaldo who danced to a samba beat, left right left, half a yard, bang 3-3!!

We had 8 minutes now to stick or bust and both teams tried to win the game but a draw on a horrible pitch was a fair result. We are so, so pleased with the girls application today because at 3-1 down with 20 minutes to go, 95% of teams would’ve throw in the towel. However, not these girls who fought and fought and got what they deserved; a great football and life lesson for this exciting young team today.

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What a spectacular showdown it was on a chilly Saturday morning as the mighty Borehamwood 2000 U10 girls stormed into Bedwell Rangers' territory, led by the ever-inspiring Captain Daisy. After a lengthy winter break, the girls were back with a vengeance, their energy palpable from the get-go.

Quarter 1: Explosive Start 

The first quarter kicked off with a bang as Elsie narrowly missed a long shot, signalling Borehamwood's intent. Polly, taking on goalkeeping duties, made some crucial clearances, ensuring the team stayed on top. Tippi dominated midfield with powerful tackles, and it was Daisy who finally broke the deadlock, weaving through defenders with ease before netting a sublime goal. Not long after, Daisy doubled the lead with a thunderous shot from distance. Amber, cool and composed in defence, thwarted Bedwell’s attempts with her signature tackles. The highlight was Sienna's brilliant backline play, linking up with Tippi and Ruby, culminating in Daisy completing her hat-trick with a clinical finish.

Quarter 2: Building Momentum 

Confidence soaring, Borehamwood entered the second quarter with Sienna stepping into goalkeeping duties and Anisia fortifying the defence. Daisy’s perfect cross found Juniper, whose effort was brilliantly saved by Bedwell’s keeper. Maisie took control of midfield, and her quick reflexes saw her convert Elsie’s corner into Borehamwood’s fourth goal. The team’s synergy was undeniable, with Elsie showcasing her dribbling prowess to score a stunning fifth goal. Juniper added another with a well-placed shot from outside the box, taking the tally to six. Elsie came tantalizingly close to adding another but was denied by the woodwork.

Quarter 3: Unrelenting Pressure 

Buzzing with energy, the Wood Army surged forward in the third quarter. Juniper quickly added her second goal, striking with venom. Tippi, back in midfield, orchestrated the play, delivering a perfect pass to Elsie, who was once again was denied by the post. Sienna's remarkable save kept Bedwell at bay, while Polly’s dominance in midfield and pin point passing led to another well taken goal by Daisy. Amber remained vigilant, cutting out any Bedwell advances. Daisy continued her offensive onslaught, narrowly missing another long-range effort. Tippi and Elsie’s corner routines were a joy to watch, making life for a Bedwell defender very difficult. Ever vigilant, Daisy capitalizing on a goal kick error to blast home another goal with a her first touch to make it eight goals for Borehamwood.

Quarter 4: Closing with Style 

The final quarter saw Ruby dazzling down the left wing, her dribbling skills reminiscent of Ryan Giggs. Sienna, now in central defense, provided stability, while Anisia took on goalkeeping duties pulling off a series of important saves and clearances. Daisy, now switching her attention to creating opportunities, delivered a pinpoint cross to Tippi, who calmly slotted home her first goal. Moments later, Daisy added her fifth with her trademark right foot, whilst Ruby and Juniper were both unlucky not to score despite their impressive efforts. Maisie and Polly’s tireless work in midfield ensured Borehamwood maintained control. Tippi’s second goal was a sublime long range shot, which came from another of Daisy’s accurate passes. Not ready to call it a day, Daisy capped off her remarkable performance with a blistering shot from wide on the right, securing Borehamwood’s twelfth goal. Bedwell Rangers made a last minute surge, which had Borehamwood holding their breath, however Amber’s timely tackle preserved their clean sheet.

Player of the Match

Daisy's performance was nothing short of extraordinary, notching up multiple goals and providing key assists. Her leadership and skill on the field were instrumental in Borehamwood's dominant display.

This match was a testament to Borehamwood 2000’s resilience, skill, and teamwork. The girls controlled the pace from the outset, delivering some of the best football we’ve seen this season. A special shoutout to Sienna, Polly, and Anisia for stepping up in goal. 2025 looks incredibly bright for this talented squad!

The Wood's juniors wrapped up 2024 this weekend with some sparkling football that big Santa appreciated very much before setting out on his important journeys!

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As the year comes to a close, Borehamwood 2000 U10 Girls has truly captured hearts and made waves in the world of U10 football. This remarkable group of young players has not only transitioned seamlessly from 5-a-side to 7-a-side football but has also set a shining example of teamwork, skill, and determination.

At the start of the season, moving to a larger squad and adapting to a more complex game could have been a daunting challenge. Yet, Borehamwood 2000 embraced it with open arms, proving that their talent and passion are unmatched. The leap to 7-a-side football has not just been smooth, it’s been spectacular. This team has evolved, becoming more tactically aware with every match. Their passing game, once promising, has blossomed into a true spectacle of precision and collaboration, showcasing the incredible bond that ties these players together.

Playing Your Part: Strength in Every Position

Defensively, Borehamwood 2000 has been a fortress. Opponents have often found themselves frustrated, unable to crack the wall of strength that stands tall and resolute. The backline is a testament to the girls’ grit, discipline, and unwavering focus.

In midfield, the team has shown what it takes to dominate the heart of the pitch. Their relentless energy and fine-tuned “engines” ensure that they control the game’s tempo, linking defense to attack with seamless precision. These midfield maestros embody the perfect balance of work rate and creativity, proving that success in football often begins in the center of the field.

Upfront, Borehamwood 2000’s strike-force has been nothing short of sensational. Scoring an astonishing 55 goals in just 12 games, these forwards have a hunger for the back of the net that rivals some of the best teams. Their ability to convert chances into goals has left fans in awe and opposition defenders in disarray.

Meanwhile, between the posts, the team’s brave goalkeepers have been nothing less than heroic. The courage it takes to stand as the last line of defense, knowing the weight of the game can rest on your shoulders, is immense. Borehamwood 2000’s keepers have risen to the occasion time and again, embodying resilience and composure.

More Than Just Football

While the accolades and victories are worth celebrating, what truly sets Borehamwood 2000 apart is the spirit of camaraderie that defines this team. The friendships built on and off the pitch are as strong as their defensive line, and their infectious love for the game is evident in the huge smiles they wear during every match. The joy and passion these girls bring to football are a reminder of why we all love this team. 

A crucial part of this journey has been the unwavering support from parents, grandparents, and friends—the ever-enthusiastic ‘Wood Army.’ Your cheers from the sidelines and belief in these girls have been a huge factor in their success, driving them to give their all in every game.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look to 2025, the momentum of Borehamwood 2000 shows no signs of slowing. This team is on a path to succeed both as individuals and as a team. With their determination, skill, and unity, there’s no doubt that even greater achievements lie ahead.

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And it’s a wrap! Before heading off for our Winter break and the wrapping and unwrapping of Christmas presents and Ferrero Rochers, the Wood’s U15 Girls had one last fixture in the County Cup to get through.

On paper it was a fixture we were always likely to win, against a Goffs Oak side two divisions below us, so it was a great opportunity for us to play with confidence and get into some good habits for tougher games that lie ahead.  

The team were warned about being complacent and respecting the opposition and the competition, but also urged to go out and enjoy and express themselves and they duly delivered on both fronts.

Goffs could not cope with our attacking play and we raced into a 3-0 lead inside 15 mins with goals from Louella, Lilly VT and Scarlett. Gabriella notched her second goal of the season on 20 mins and a barnstorming run and calm finish from centre back Amy on the stroke of half time made it 5-0. It could have been plenty more as well.

A few changes were made at half time to freshen up the attack and the result was plenty more of the same attacking threat. A nice solo goal from Milly, a second of the match for Scarlett and a second half hatrick from Louella (making it 4 for the game) made it 11-0.  There was still time for Louella to turn provider and assist Yasmin with a nice goal to finish the game. 

Across the whole match Nisa in goal was rarely troubled but was always available for the defence to play back to and trust her with the ball.   The back four of Leni, Amy, Lily and Annie were dominant throughout and denied Goffs any early Christmas joy from an attacking threat, and all of them managed to get forward and support our own attacks at times as well. 

In the middle of the park, Jess and Lilly VT were excellent along with POM Hollie who was pulling the strings and moving the ball around brilliantly. Our attacking play was excellent with Milly, Yas, Louella, Scarlett and Gabs all getting goals and wing wizard Amie chipped in with 5 assists. A special mention to Louella who has now reached 20 goals for the season and we are only half way through!

At the midway point of our first ever season, the girls have performed superbly.   We currently sit joint top in the league with the title and promotion very much up for grabs. We are also now into the quarter final of the county game and will fancy our chances against a strong Berkhamsted Raiders side in the new year. 

We have competed well against everybody we have played so far, including a few division 1 sides, but perhaps more importantly we are receiving great credit from opposition coaches and referees alike  for the style and quality of football that we play.  If we continue to work hard and continue to gel well as a group then the future is very bright for this squad.

A very big thank you and well done to the team’s staff – Manager Joe and assistants Kristi and David – who have taken to juniors’ management so naturally and efficiently. They, the girls and a keen and wonderfully supportive parent base have fitted into the club like the pieces in a jigsaw and we can’t wait to see what they can all achieve in 2025!

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U16 Boys faced Omonia White in the league knowing another hard test was coming. The Omonia team were gunning to go second in the league and arrived at Pursley with many of their guys looking like they were wearing stilts such was their prodigious height! However, the Wood were ready all the same and are slowly gaining a confidence in their ability to play the game on the deck, controlling matches and opponents in this manner regardless of their physical profile.

Though it’s not easy at an advanced level where all teams possess excellent individual players, the boys have conceded far too many soft goals this season, averaging two a game at present. Today’s game saw more of the same with the Wood falling behind quickly after its left side failed to deal with a long ball, and its right side failed to make any challenge on the Omonia attacker, his long shot finding the net when a slightly deeper position may have resulted in a quite routine save?

However, the Wood don’t lack for character and, undaunted, began knocking the ball around beautifully, putting Omonia to the sword and dominating the half with football of the highest order. The first action came when Makamian, enjoying a strong end to the year and a very good match on the left wing, was hacked down centrally. Manning, another who exudes total calm and class on the ball, strolled up to fire the resultant free kick narrowly over the bar.

Between the sticks, keeper Elboukhari was brilliantly barking out orders like a parade ground sergeant, showing so much leadership and character, and his quick thinking fed Makamian, who did the same with a slide rule pass for Da Silva, a player who is a constant threat to defences everywhere and had just missed the target after a mesmerising mazy dribble. This time, he produced a sublime through ball to release top scorer Silva, his shot perfect but, for the height which allowed the keeper to save. Three passes from one end to the other in less than 10 seconds, proving the Wood’s quality and chosen style of play.

MoM Green has been getting back to his very best and was dominating at the point of the Wood’s midfield triangle, given a freedom created by consistently excellent performances from Crucefix and Zefi in the holding roles. Da Silva fed Green who picked out Silva with a sharp early pass, his super low shot just failing to find the far post.

Makamian and Da Silva combined again shortly after to feed Green whose long curling effort flew inches past the right hand post. Thereafter, a quality Makamian corner seemed destined to be dispatched into the net as it dropped into the 6 yard box, but, static players saw the chance squandered and Omonia break full length at pace. Proving what it takes to perform as a Wood winger, Song, another player ending the year very strongly, sprinted fully 80 yards to make an incredible last ditch sliding tackle, denying a certain goal!

The Wood piled on, Zefi crashing a header from midfield into Silva, who showed a lovely touch to control and then hit a fierce volley that was parried by the away keeper for a corner. Makamian stroked it in again and this time the Wood actually moved, with Hones, playing a very solid half, stooping bravely to win a key header and find Silva, slamming home the ball for his 12^th of the season!

After the re-start, Da Silva curled in another tremendous ball that just evaded Silva, while Elboukhari used all his frame to dive full length to brilliantly keep out an Omonia strike. Then the goal of the game, Zefi again winning the ball in midfield and simply but, crucially finding Song on the right. He strode forward and exchanged delightful passes with Silva, before curling a stunner that fell for Green to power forward totally in position, dispatching a perfectly struck low pass into the bottom left corner, the away keeper absolutely helpless to stop it.

Fan now entered the fray and set about harassing the away defence effectively, while Crucefix became more and more influential, winning the ball and playing it so intelligently into the areas that most benefited the Wood and most hurt the opposition. Da Silva sent away Green with another great pass and his snap shot was parried for yet another corner. This time, however, Omonia cleared and a series of basic Wood mistakes – failing to stay marked, a block missed and a deflected shot that might have been palmed away – saw a one-man Omonia counter end with the ball in the home net.

The Wood ringed the changes - bringing on Collier, McGuinness, Pop and Marshall – and the team continued its good play, testament to how well these boys adapted to the speed of the game. The half ended 2-2 and re-started soon after with Pop soaring like a condor to send a powerful header goalwards that was blocked on the line. McGuinness was menacing the Omonia defence, getting the ball out of his feet and sprinting hard and with purpose. Collier was continuing his recent excellent form, hard in the tackle and calm in possession, while Marshall decided attack was the best defence and threw himself into the action, totally committed and almost firing home his first Wood goal!

Crucefix sent a ball over the top to Fan, whose effort beat the keeper but, just failed to find the net. Boshjaku and Manning were calmness personified at the back and stroking the ball around beautifully, the foundation for so much of the Wood’s good play further forward. From this, Green struck yet another goal bound shot, palmed wide for a corner. Fan’s excellent delivery was cleared to McGuinness who flashed a fierce shot from distance just wide.

Despite all this good play and more, the next goal went to Omonia with a ball that should have been simply cleared, staying in play to the delight of the opposition and being buried shortly after. Somehow 2-3 down, the boys had to dig deep again so they got on with it, continuing to play in triangles and use possession effectively.

As the game wound up, Zefi, oozing class with every touch, produced a world class cross for Da Silva, always the live wire, to wriggle free. The away defender could only bring him down and a penalty was awarded. After missing countless, consecutive spot kicks previously, the Wood broke this run recently and this time, Silva stepped up to take on the responsibility and fire home, making the final score 3-3 and giving the Wood a well deserved point. After a pre-season spent in hospital, it seemed fitting that this Wood stalwart should end the action in 2024 so successfully and provide the inspiration for two of the Wood’s founding brothers - Montgomery and Ifeacho - to battle back from their own recent setbacks, which we know they will do, tough and determined as they are.

As the calendar year closes out, we thank coaches Manning, Montgomery and Silva for all their hard work and support, without which the team could not function. Likewise, we are so grateful for the support of Mary, a woman of incredible organisation and talent, and genuinely, a one in a million.

2024 is almost done and we’ve learnt much. Today’s performance exemplifies where we have improved with fluid, effective passing and movement, and also where we need to improve, with better decision making and execution in our defensive duties across the board. However, every one of the boys is on the up, getting better fast and their old manager thanks them for putting up with his hissy fits and reminds them that he is really very proud of them all indeed.

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Our U15 Boys have enjoyed a great year and today took the long trek over to Bishops Stortford for the last 16 game in the prestigious County Cup. BSFC were decent opponents, sitting 3rd, 3 divisions above Borehamwood in the Mid Herts Prem.

The Wood started brightly and went close with long range efforts firstly from McGregor and then from Lennard, the latter forcing the Stortford keeper to just tip the ball around the post.

Down the other end Torshakani pulled off a run of saves that wouldn’t have looked out of place in any stadium across the land. Stortford pushed forward and started to take control of the game in midfield, scoring a couple of well-worked efforts to head in at half time 2-0.

The Wood were still in the game though and knew they had to start the half well to put the opposition under pressure. The Wood didn’t quite manage this and just 10 seconds into the half went 3-0 down. The players though battled to the end and although the game ended 6-0, every player did the team proud and worked hard to the end with special mentions to Torshakani, Smith, Murphy and Sheppard who really impressed today. Overall, not the result we were looking for but the Wood have bigger fish to fry in the coming new year.

The team this season has gone from strength to strength and are sitting well placed moving into the second half of the season, 2nd in the league and still in both league cups. With the right amount of effort, the boys have the ability to go on and make the second half of the season their most successful yet.

Massive thanks go to Craig and Matt who are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to train and improve the boys. The results are obvious and impressive and the hard work of these guys is both very well noted and greatly appreciated! With the incomparable Rita doing the business in the tea hut every week, we have a great team on and off the pitch!!

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Unfortunately, our U14 Girls' match in the Junior League Cup against Bury was postponed due to reasons outside their control, while their opposition were unable to field a side last weekend in the County Cup, the Wood progressing into the next round via a walkover. This was a great shame as the players and staff just want to play football matches but, these hiccups haven't diminished what has been a tremendous campaign thus far, with the girls amassing an impressive 11 wins and just 2 losses in all competitons.

From the onset, the staff knew this was always going to be a bit of a transitional season with some tough days to be expected. With only 10 signed up pre-season due to one reason or another, we needed to add new players quickly and did so from a wealth of strong applicants, with 7 tremendous new signings adding to what was already a very richly talented and welcoming squad. The new girls integrated fantastically well and in double quick time all adding their personalities and skills to the pot, even helping to reinvigorate their vastly experienced manager after 6 long seasons of football!

These new arrivals: Poppy S, Yvie D, Pheidi F, Aanya R, Lola P, Poppy N & Isabella C, arrived with fire in their bellies, with a point to prove and their hearts and minds open wide. The girls and their parents all threw themselves fully behind the Wood’s cause, falling in love with this amazing little team and club, and in return we all love them back just as dearly!

We worked very hard as a squad over the summer, helping the new girls understand and get to grips with how we like to play as a team, with the ball on the ground and everyone expected to want and to cherish possession of the ball. The hard work from the existing squad and our new signings has been paying off and is making not only good footballers but fantastic individuals and young people to be proud of.

The team is now challenging on three fronts for the League, the Junior League Cup and the blue riband County Cup too. The future looks very bright and is even more so as we have made a further new signing, with a very exciting new player - Sophie K – joining our ranks. Sophie is a top class striker with a fearsome shot and eye for goal, and will hopefully be the cherry on the cake for this excellent young side.

However, this team would be nothing without the Wood stalwarts of old and the girls who have fought with us for the last 6 years! These heroines: Annie J, Kara E, Hazel C, Emily H, Theaya P, Lucy W, Elsie J, Ava S, Riss E-B and Gabby U – continue to improve rapidly and together we’re building something special; the players can feel it, as can the coaches and parents, with a bond and togetherness that we haven’t felt in a while. Captain fantastic - Annie J - said she has never been more excited for a season with the Wood as she has this year and that says it all! A huge thank you from the staff to all of our amazing girls; you make our weekends so much more fun and here’s to an excellent 2025!

Finally, a massive thank you to the team’s staff – Manager Dave and coaches Richard and Pete. It’s so easy to forget these guys are volunteers giving up huge amounts of their precious time for the benefit of the next generation. In this team, they are also hugely generous sponsors allowing the club to provide value for money and ensure all our children can play regardless of their financial background. Take a bow, gents, and truly, thank you for everything that you do.

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The Wood's fixtures were decimated by the weather but, our U16 Boys Herts FA County Trophy match against Berkhamsted did go ahead; the conditions were wet n' wild and with everyone soaked through and chilled to the bone, the losers on the day would feel it extra hard.

The Wood's prep for the biggest game of the season was hampered by circumstances meaning only 12 were able to make training mid-week. However, the boys started well with keeper Marshall and Hones distributing the ball well to feed MoM Song on the right wing; enjoying an outstanding match, he won the ball constantly and sent in a barrage of high quality crosses. However, the Wood's other offensive players were unable to take advantage of this bounty and were frustratingly offside when they were able to find the net twice later in the half.

Half time was swung round in record time as the cold and rain bit deep; against this backdrop, the first goal would be very important. It seemed destined to go to the Wood after a number of corners dropped into the Berko 6 yard box. However, too many of the lads were on their heels and unable to convert any of the many glorious opportunities presented to ram the ball home. It's a dangerous game to play and the inevitable happened: Berko first to the ball in midfield, the striker unmarked receiving the pass, the shot lacking pace but, still finding the net.

The Wood tried hard to equalise with Crucefix driving the team on and again enjoying a brilliant match combining steel in the tackle and silk on the ball. Da Silva's long shot was saved low, the home keeper doing the same again when Silva streaked clean through, while Collier, enjoying an excellent match, struck a missile from the edge of the box that cannoned off the bar. That was the story one way, while the other end saw an unfortunate mix up and the referee ignoring a blatant push on Zefi (again playing some lovely football) to allow a second Berko goal to stand, effectively sealing the tie.

The boys tried hard today in horrible conditions, but those conditions were shared with Berko and they managed to find a way; their dream of County glory continues. The Wood's is over and with this being the 4th consecutive game the boys have drawn or led at half time only to lose the second half, the area of improvement is obvious. Preparing oneself both physically and mentally is really important to turning that around as is a great desire to succeed, really wanting to make big finals and win important trophies, and doing whatever it takes to make that happen.

The boys are in a tough league and have hard games ahead. No one is going to help us out so we roll up our sleeves, graft, think a little more deeply about what we're doing and what we're trying to achieve. Then, as sure as anything in this world, we change our fortunes and receive the rich rewards our good football deserves.

U15 Boys produced a stunning display in the league to bag all the points away at Hemel Aces after a 2-5 victory. Now up to third in their table and pushing to go higher!

Most importantly though, is that centre half Lucas is beginning his recovery from a really bad injury today. This boy is tough as teak and brave as a lion and will be back soon, better than ever; everyone at our club wishes him a very speedy return.   

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After their match against Berkhamsted last weekend was rained off, the U16 Boys trained extremely well mid-week and confidence was high heading into today’s league match against Whetstone Wanderers Tigers. Last season, the Wood faced this side three times and despite dominating for long periods, came out second best on all occasions.

It was, therefore, important to set a quick tempo and start the game fast; the boys did just that and were out the gates like whippets, first to the ball, pressing in packs and forcing Whetstone back to their goal. Makamian & Silva got off decent early shots that signalled the team’s intent and then combined to snatch the lead: Silva’s cross being handled in the box and Makamian efficiently dispatching the resultant penalty.

Whetstone had barely mounted an attack in the half but, drew level with a shot from outside the box that bounced several times and should have been closed down or stopped. Nevertheless, the boys fought back and after Manning’s free kick and Boshjaku’s shot were parried, the lively Green had the sharp anticipation to follow up and ram the ball home for 1-2. Shortly after, Ifeacho thought quickly too, taking a prodigious long throw when Whetstone were off guard; the hard-working Song predicted the bounce and flashed an excellent effort just wide.

The Wood were really purring now and came back out for the second half in top form. The team weathered an early storm of long balls which in the past would have seen them launch high balls back in return. Instead, they got it down and played some sublime football, particularly down the left flank with Manning, Zefi and Makamian linking up and wriggling out of tight areas to retain possession or win free kicks. Crucefix was enjoying another excellent match in midfield while Hones and Boshjaku were like titans in central defence.

Da Silva cleverly followed up a Silva shot but, saw his effort well parried by the home keeper. However, he then closed down the home defence fast, the ball deflecting to Silva who beautifully controlled his shot to score. The Wood were now 1-3 up, playing down a considerable slope with the wind and rain to their backs and you really couldn’t get a more favourable set of circumstances to drive on to a famous win.

Unfortunately, just when they should have been mercilessly tearing apart their opponents, the boys dropped off noticeably and Whetstone fought back with more long balls. These should have been simply cleared or caught but, were missed or spilt, Whetstone grabbing two back from scrambles and finishing the match on the front foot, the Wood perhaps fortunate to get anything out of the game by time the whistle blew?

Never mind, the performance of the squad was very good at times today and the boys worked so well to reach a point where the match was nearly theirs. However, to use a boxing analogy, instead of knocking their opponent into the stands when he was on the ropes, they backed off, let him recover, stuck their chins out to be punched hard and were almost totally knocked out by the end. We’ll try and remember that going forward and next time we have an opportunity to put a team to the sword, we’ll give that a go instead.

MoM went to Zefi who produced the best performance from any of the squad this season so far, showing such composure on the ball whilst making countless interceptions and covering challenges.

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After enjoying two strong performances against this opponent earlier in the season, our U15 Girls were all ready to storm into league action away against Hitchin Belles today. However, the Belles were sadly unable to field a side thus the Wood received the points and now sit proudly atop of their division! There's a long way to go but, this is already a considerable achievement for the girls and staff and they'll all be working doubly hard to maintain their position going forward in what promises to be a ding dong battle with Harefield, Brook House and Aylesbury!

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U14 Girls are also vying for the top of their league and played a blinder at home in the league against Bury. The girls bombarded the away team goal but, luck was against them as the ball refused to find the net. Bury remained a threat and scored late in the game to secure the points. No matter; the Wood remain very close to the top and will go again soon.

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Our U10 Girls were safely inside after their game was cancelled due to the horrid weather, but, there was no stopping our big girls as they sprinted undaunted into action and the eye of Hurricane Bert!

First up were our U14s, hosting their old friends - Kings Langley - in the League Cup at Pursley. Despite still being Autumn, conditions were like the Artic in winter with the wind and rain coming in sideways it wasn’t going to be a game for the faint hearted!

The Wood's girls started quickly as is there MO, putting pressure on the Langley defence with Elsinho and Lonaldo terrorising their opponents. G9 was was linking play and causing havoc also, like a top striker should; the Langley goal was bewitched today as it led a charmed life and should have seen double figures.

Our first goal was to come from G9 who raced clear of the defence to latch onto Elsinho’s pass and score emphatically into the bottom corner. Skipper Annie and schemer Aanya were tasked with loading the gun for the Wood’s frightening front 3 with Yvie being the pivot in front of the back four, tidying up and playing forward to her teammates. These 3 took the game by the scruff of the neck and drove the team forward. Today's back four was Poppy N at RB, with Ava & Poppy S our dominant central defenders and Theaya locking down our left flank. Pheidi & Hazel were on the bench as both are coming back from injury this week.

The charmed life of the Langley goal had us all scratching our heads as to how we didn’t score more in the first half and keep the scoreboard moving. HT: 1-0 Wood.

Playing down the slope with the wind at our backs we knew Langley would need a miracle to score against us. Try as they might, Langley could not break through the midfield cover of Pheidi or Yvie and then our defensive line. Elsinho was dancing around the Langley

defence like a ballerina in Swan Lake! She could do no wrong today in an imperious performance from our POM.

Our second was to come from another virtuoso effort from Lonaldo on the left, with a timely finish for a well deserved goal: 2-0 Wood. The third was another fine finish from G9 to take the game away from Langley. The match was now one way traffic with our dancing wingers unstoppable even with 2 or 3 defenders around them. G9 rattled the bar at least twice with thunderous strikes and Yvie also trying to add to her worldly from last week as she cannoned the bar.

The pressure was telling and the Langley defence just couldn’t hold back the tide; Lonaldo picked the ball up in the area and placed a perfect shot in the far corner with her weaker right foot: 4-0 Wood. However there was something missing from this dazzling display and it was a goal from Elsinho who was unplayable at times. She was moved centrally to play as the No9 and it wasn’t long before she poached a predator’s finish and side footed a low cross into the net like an old pro in this new position to her!

5-0 to the Wood and another great performance from a team/squad growing together and getting stronger week on week.

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Next up were our U15s, stealthily moving up their league table and perched very handily in 2nd place prior to today's game. Last weekend saw the girls come back from 2-0 down away at Harefield to draw 2-2, courtesy of a lovely goal from inform striker Louella and a penalty from Abi.

This weekend saw us return to Stevenage for our 3rd game against this opposition this season. The previous two encounters brought plenty of goals and today was no different, with an added helping of strong wind, rain and near freezing temperatures courtesy of big, bad Bert!

In very difficult conditions, and on a heavy pitch, the pre-game message was to keep organised and disciplined at the back, be competitive not complacent, and to get the ball down and play it and bring our attacking players into the game quickly.

We started well, quickly establishing ourselves as the better side and enjoying the bulk of possession, but without hugely troubling the Stevenage keeper for the first quarter of the game. At the other end our defence was well in control and we never really looked like conceding so it was only a matter of time before we scored; great individual work in the box by Louella on 22mins that broke the deadline.

At half time we talked about going out and getting the second goal, and knowing that if we did we would probably score 4 or 5 and so it was. Missy made it 0-2 on 49 minutes with a cracking strike from the edge of the box after strongly winning a loose ball from a corner.

Not to be outdone by her old mate, Milly did exactly the same thing on 52 minutes with another strike finding the top corner, and from then on we could relax a bit. The fourth goal was a lovely strike into the bottom corner by Amie following a darting run into the box after good work by Hollie.

The final goal of the game was arguably the pick of the bunch, starting with a roll out from Nisa to Abi who found Yasmin on the left wing; her inviting early ball into the box was met by Louella, scoring her second of the game by rounding the keeper!

With plenty of subs, and cold weather, we kept the substitutions flowing with all girls slotting in well and our rhythm was never really disrupted which is testament to the team's hard work and ability across the park. We played some great football despite the conditions, scored some lovely goals and we were excellent at the back.

Lots of very good performances today but Player of the Match this week goes to birthday girl Abi who was faultless at the back, defensively solid and passed the ball really well today.

Our U15 Boys hosted the unbeaten Cuffley Knights today in the prestigious Herts County Trophy. Keeper Torshakani was missing due to illness and stand in keeper Smith took one for the team and played in goal.

The Wood team knew they had to start the game well and not give their opponents an inch early on. They couldn’t have started any better when Lennard found Staszewksi down the left but, there seemed nowhere for him to go. However, this lad is different class; Staszewski mesmerised the full back, cut back in onto his right foot and curled his shot across the keeper into the far corner, a great goal at any level.

Borehamwood grew after this goal and the whole team were on it, winning all first and second balls. Fernando and Adom had the Knights’ striker in their pockets early on, with over 20 goals already this season he clearly hadn’t played against a pairing as formidable as these two. Backed up by Sutherland and Mill as full backs the boys looked solid.

McGregor, Joyce and Gilsenan had the midfield sewn up and were playing some great football. One piece in particular found Staszewski who released the Wood’s top scorer Lennard who finished with a great left footed strike across the keeper to make it 2 0. This would have been accepted by most but this team smelt blood and wanted more. Sheppard linked up with Staszewksi well with the latter letting a shot go from 30 yards, the keeper saved it but spilt it to the on-rushing Lennard who finished from close range to make it 3 0 and bag his 16th of the season.

Half time came and in the changing room there wasn’t a single thing the Wood needed to improve as they had played so well. The talk was more of not having anything won by playing well for half a game. This decent Cuffley team could get back in the game if the Wood didn’t keep up the hard work.

Into the second half Evans came on for Mill who had picked up a knock, fitting into the back 4 well and doing his bit for the team. The Wood naturally sat back a bit and invited Cuffley on to them but this wasn’t the best idea. Cuffley got one back and all of a sudden the game changed. The class Borehamwood had shown in the first half had to be replaced with grit and determination. Chen and Maranzana came on for Lennard and Sheppard and worked hard to get in the game as best they could.

Cuffley had the wind in their sails and got a second when they kept pumping the ball into the Bwood box, a scramble saw the ball fall to the winger at the back post who finished to make it 3 2. It was backs to the wall in the last ten minutes but with all the defenders and midfielders putting in the hard work it seemed like the Wood boys would hang on. With minutes to go the Cuffley top scorer raced clear a couple of times, both times denied by Smith the second time by an amazing save at full stretch.

The final whistle went from the ref and the Wood were into the last 16 of the blue riband County Trophy with a well deserved win. Played the opponents off the park in the first half and then matched them for grit and determination in the second half. So many top performances today but a special mention has to go out to Smith who played in goal when his team needed him and didn’t disappoint. It’s 7 wins from 8 now with the local derby next week vs Belstone to come!

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U16 Boys faced top opposition in the 2^nd round of the League Cup, facing Colney Heath for the second time this season already, a team that were perfect coming into the match, thrashing nearly all their opponents this term. After a run of poor games, the boys would need to find a level of performance that had alluded them recently but, they came to Pursley in determined and focused mood and it was obvious from the off that they would be fierce opponents today.

This transpired immediately as the boys were absolutely magnificent from the first whistle, tearing into the opposition with energy and drive, regardless of their exalted reputation. Elboukhari bolstered the midfield with tough tackling and was constantly talking and encouraging his team-mates, something that had been sorely missed previously. Next to him, Cruecfix was piling in as was Fan, enjoying his best game to date. On the wings, birthday boy Green and Makamian were working very hard and effectively against physically powerful opponents, while the Wood’s defence was strong and committed with Manning enjoying another fine outing.

Marshall in goal played a very effective game making several outstanding saves when Colney seemed sure to find the net but, after a quality delivery, Colney scored with a header that slipped inside the near post just a little too easily. However, the Wood roared back and Fan produced sublime technique to turn a difficult bouncing ball into a controlled shot that alluded the away keeper to level the match!

The Wood poured forward and outplayed their opponents for long periods, but, Colney still carried a great threat at all times. Song and Collier came on to continue the team’s excellent wing work while another birthday boy - Zefi - produced his best performance of the season also, running ceaselessly to ensure the midfield stayed strong and competitive. Silva up front weaved his magic and was a constant menace to the away side.

With the clock running down for pens, Colney broke quickly and the Wood’s defensive positioning was slightly lacking as Colney found the net. Elboukhari seemed certain to equalise moments after but, shot narrowly wide and the game ended 1-2.

After recent matches where they considerably under-performed, the boys showed what they’re really about today, taking what is effectively an EJA side and putting them to the sword for long periods. The match was decided on just one or two moments and both teams traded blows throughout, with no quarter given or expected; just how it should be with young, committed men seeking to advance in the game.

In playing so well, the boys breathed pride into themselves, their team and their club and today’s performance when repeated will yield great success long term, both individually and collectively. Finding this level of performance against lesser teams is the team’s next challenge and is a mental one at that; they’ll get there sure as night turns to day and the staff must recognise the inconsistencies of youth as that process unfolds, which they will.

Several boys played levels above their baseline today with Fan and Zefi particularly good, however, MoM went to Hones this week for a truly massive defensive display that should fill him with confidence for the rest of this season and beyond.

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What a game our U10 Girls enjoyed today! The atmosphere at Borehamwood's home ground crackled with anticipation as Captain Gracie led the mighty Borehamwood 2000 onto the pitch to face a formidable Berkhamsted Raiders. Tensions were high and the fans were ready for a show; and, oh boy, did the girls deliver!

Quarter 1 got off to a fiery start. Berkhamsted came out swinging, taking the game to Borehamwood. The Wood's backline, with Amber and Sienna putting in crunching tackles, worked overtime to hold the Raiders at bay. Goalie Gracie nearly pulled off a heroic save, but a thunderous Berkhamsted shot found the back of the net.

Polly was a whirlwind in midfield, making blistering runs and showing grit after being clipped. Daisy came agonizingly close with a long-range effort, while Juniper’s near-miss kept the fans on edge. The opening quarter ended with Borehamwood full of fight.

Entering Quarter 2. It was now time for the comeback to begin. With Sienna now guarding the goal with hawk-like vigilance, the Wood went on the attack. Ruby’s electrifying solo run set up Daisy, who somehow squeezed a goal in from an impossibly tight angle. The crowd roared!

The momentum shifted completely. Elsie dazzled with her quick feet and clever turns, leaving the Berkhamsted defence spinning. Ruby turned provider again, delivering a perfect cross to Juniper, who teed up Daisy for her second of the day. Borehamwood surged and the Wood Army was in full voice!

The third quarter was an absolute barn burner and a real battle of wills. End to end action kept the fans on the edge of their seats. Polly’s tireless energy in midfield was a sight to behold, and Amber’s fearless tackling had everyone in awe. Elsie came close to curling in a beauty straight from a corner kick, while Juniper’s long-range effort narrowly missed the mark. Berkhamsted, to their credit, wouldn’t go quietly and scored with a well-taken goal, but Borehamwood didn’t flinch. The belief in the team was palpable.

The final quarter was a test of nerves, and Borehamwood passed with flying colours. Juniper, now in goal, made sprawling saves to keep the Raiders out. Captain Gracie showcased her blistering pace, skinning defenders down the wing and lifting the crowd with her relentless drive. The pressure mounted, and finally, the breakthrough came. A loose ball in the six-yard box fell to Tippi, who pounced with a clinical strike; the crowd erupted in jubilation!

Daisy’s corners were inch-perfect, keeping Berkhamsted on the back foot, while Elsie’s dazzling footwork had shades of Ronaldo. In the dying moments, Sienna showed her composure, calmly clearing the danger and ensuring the Wood were not breached.

When the whistle blew, Borehamwood had put on a thrilling display of grit, skill, and teamwork. From fearless defending to precision passing, this was a masterclass. The players left it all on the pitch, playing for each other and thrilling the crowd.

A special shoutout to Polly, whose boundless energy and commanding midfield performance earned her the well-deserved Player of the Match award. Take a bow, Borehamwood 2000—you were simply unstoppable! Well done, girls! The Wood Army marches on! Lastly, a big thank you to Dave R for officiating today’s game. Brilliant job.

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U14 girls had a tough home game today vs our friends at Goffs Oak. On a sticky Pursley pitch the free flowing football this exciting young Wood side are becoming renowned for would be hard to replicate; today’s opponents Goffs also had a plan to stifle this. A shout out to our Hazel who is under the weather this week after her POM performance last week.

The game started with the Wood attacking up the Pursley slope with a menacing front 3 of Gabby  our G9, Lo’naldo  and Elsinho. Karadonna was in the hole behind the front 3 and was aiming to put in a second great performance after her heroics vs Hertford last week. The midfield was completed by monster Lucy and Captain marvel Annie who again this week covered more grass than a golf course lawnmower!

Early chances were created by this dynamic bunch with Lonaldo standing out as she tormented her fullback time and time again, dropping precision balls over the retreating Goffs’ defence for G9 to attack. The opening goal was to come from here with G9 beating the defence for pace before smashing an unstoppable drive past the flailing Goffs’ keeper: 1-0 Wood.

At the other end of the pitch the Wood’s tight as two coats of paint defence were at their formidable best with Yvie, Ava, Poppy S, Theaya  & GK Emily all doing their best to shut out the dangerous & pacy Goffs front 3. HT we went in 1-0.

We made changes to the team as Goffs’ pace down the flanks was causing real issues so Poppy N and todays POM Isabella came on to block up these avenues of attack. Pheidi came in to shore up the midfield in another fine display in what is largely a season of transition for this midfield warrior. Midfield schemer Aanya was back and causing issues in a new position of right midfield backed up by Isabella; they proved to be a fearsome double act launching attack after attack.

Riss came in to goal for Emily and an early mix up in the Wood’s machine let the excellent Goffs No10 equalise: 1-1. More changes were made with Yvie moving into midfield where we felt her tough tackling and never say die attitude were needed. We didn’t expect her to score a contender for goal of the season as she let fly from just inside the penalty area after great wing play by Lola who fed Yvie, whose shot flew into the top corner of the net for 2-1 Wood and order was restored.

You could see the girls relax a little now with the coming of the goal and more chances were to come and go with Kara, Lola, Elsie & Aanya creating for G9 and themselves, Skipper Annie stung the Goffs’ keeper’s hands with a long range effort that she just held onto! Poppy S & Poppy N both had long range free kicks saved by the Goffs’ GK.

Our third and final goal of the day was sublimely finished by G9 with the deftest of touches with the outside of her left foot to poke the ball past the onrushing Goffs’ keeper from a fantastic low cross from Aanya’s wand of a right foot! Job done and the girls march on now, joint top of the league and primed to compete on 3 fronts going forward this season!!

Our U15 Boys enjoyed a superb 1-4 away win in the Cup against Harpenden Town Cowboys, playing a division higher than our lads. This win continues the boys' fine form and they go into a massive Herts FA County Trophy 2nd round match against Cuffley Youth Knights, with confidence surging!  

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U16 Boys faced bottom of the table HMH Hawks on a pristine Pursley pitch knowing three points would propel them to 3^rd in their league; everything was prepared for the club’s senior side to showcase all its best attributes and push themselves forward to potential title honours in April.

Unfortunately, the occasion proved too big for the boys, with nearly the whole squad flat and unable to perform even close to the levels they can. A snail like start gradually improved and chances started to come, but, were missed again and again, when it seemed harder to avoid the target than hit it.

Defensively, the boys were poor, the recent lessons on shape seemingly in one ear and out the other, while quality on the ball was not forthcoming, frustrating many attempts to get the team playing. Midfield was often over-run as good players decided to over-play and suffered, bemusingly continuing to choose this style of play despite brilliant recent attacks all stemming from moving the ball early. Up front, chances came and chances went.

Plus points saw Green return a solid performance in midfield and MoM went to keeper Marshall who deserved a clean sheet, but, had that taken from him by a ludicrous challenge in the box that saw HMH awarded a penalty which they dispatched for a win they thoroughly deserved. This can be said as they worked really hard for each other and showed desire, heart and endeavour to turn around their fortunes.

With five points dropped at home against the bottom two in the league and only just scraping past a Division 3 side last week, the Wood’s boys have proved they are just not ready to compete for honours this season. The door was wide open but, as a collective they just couldn’t walk through it to setup a title charge. That’s a pity and we move on but, certainly, expectations are much reduced as the boys are now more likely to face a relegation battle being just 4 points ahead of their victorious opponents today. C’est la vie but, when that really matters to the lads, their fortunes will change.

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The U15 Girls took on another Division 1 side in Harpenden Colts in the quarter final of the league cup today. Although we ended up losing the tie on penalties we proved once again that we are able to compete with the top teams in the league.

It was a game of few clear chances with both defences excelling, and in the first half, keeper Nisa didn’t have to make a save. At the other end, the Wood looked threatening on the break and with some more decisive finishing and final passes we could easily have taken a first half lead. 

It wasn’t to be and the second half was much the same. As the game wore on it was the hosts who probably had the better chances and carried the more attacking threat. Nisa’s handling was good when called upon but most of the limited chances created sailed over the crossbar thankfully.

With the match all square at full time it was straight to penalties and Harpenden got the job done scoring all of theirs. It was a very well contested game and played in a fantastic spirit. Probably one of those days when having 5 subs didn’t help us as we had to make lots of changes and perhaps lost a bit of our usual fluidity, but also, this was largely down to the quality of the opposition who were very good, very strong, and never let us play our usual game.

A fantastic experience for the girls to play against teams of this level and we proved once again that we are no push overs. Our defensive unit is getting stronger every week and with the energy in midfield of Jess, Scarlett and Lilly we know that no teams will find it easy to play against us. Going forward we found it harder today, against a very good and well organised team, so we need to work on moving the ball that little bit quicker and running off the ball to create opportunities. We had glimpses of that today, with Yasmin in particular looking bright on the left, but overall the draw was fair and penalties is a lottery.  

We cannot be too disheartened with the result or the performance.  We now turn our attention back to the league and we wish Harpenden well in the next round of the cup. Player of the match was Lily B who was excellent at left back.

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The U14 girls had a tough away trip today to face the very powerful Hertford town Belo again. After deservedly beating this same Hertford team 4-2 on pens in the County Cup last weekend there was a lot riding on this game. Hertford definitely wanting revenge and the Wood were desperate for 3 points in a game that will have a bearing on the eventual title winners this season.

The first half was to be another tense affair with the Wood’s new look defence becoming more and more of an impregnable fortress. Yvie, Ava, Poppy S, Theaya and GK Emily  are almost as stingy with goals as coach Dave is when he’s got a bag of sweets! The midfield five of Lonaldo & Elsinho out wide with a central 3 of skipper Annie, Monster Lucy and Karadonna pulling the strings for the best striker since R9, our own G9: Gabby.

The girls created lots of half chances for each other but the ball just wouldn’t sit right for the clear shot on goal we wanted. Hazel and Poppy N came on to try and add energy and running power which they both did battling away for the cause, but the half was to finish 0-0. Hertford would go in the happier for stifling this hugely promising Wood side.

Half time was a bit of a rocket for the girls from coach Dave as he felt the team had played into Hertford’s hands and came away from playing their own free flowing football to get caught up in a wrestling match! The girls took on board the info and understood the task at hand: get the ball down and get it moving.

Hazel today’s POM was wreaking havoc down Hertford’s left in what is her standout performance of this year so far. Hazel was combining with her big pal - Karadonna - who was also having her best game this year pulling the strings in the hole behind G9. Karadonna  picked the Hertford lock with a little toe poke through to Hazel who had noticed the home keeper off her line; so Hazel dinked one over the keeper’s head for 0-1 to the Wood!

Now one up, the girls visibly relaxed and G9 was starting to give the Hertford girls’ nightmares for life! Gabby’s first of a brace was of her making as she pounced on a mistake in the Hertford defence, as a back header fell in no-man’s land; G9 was first to the ball she slowed then accelerated past the defence and buried a low drive into the far corner for 0-2 Wood!

The game was tense for a minute, 0-2 being an iffy scoreline as you need that third goal to be able to relax a little. Up stepped R9 again to pounce on the home defence, robbing them of the ball driving into the box and burying another low drive past the keeper into the same corner as her first.

Hertford now had nothing to lose so they threw the kitchen sink at the Wood defence who held firm with Poppy and Ava forming a brick wall with Yvie and Theaya. Lonaldo playing in the unfamiliar central midfield was mopping up with skipper Annie in front of the back four.

Karadonna was finding acres of room to play in, as was a particularly dazzling Elsinho who stung the keeper’s hands, had an assist and was turning the Hertford fullback inside out! Poppy S took a long free kick searching for Elsinho, the defender just beat Else to the ball but her twin Annie was now on hand to release her sister with a fine ball in behind the defence. Elsinho left 2 defenders in her wake and delivered a perfect low cross where Karadonna was gladly waiting to finish with aplomb: 0-4 Wood!

More gaps appeared as Hertford looked for a goal to save their blushes. Again Elsinho was to get a good ball from this with Yvie intercepting and playing her in quickly; the cross found Karadonna in the box with 2 defenders around her but by sheer will she forced the ball over the line for her second and the Wood’s fifth: 0-5!

The game was coming to an end and was over as a spectacle when Hertford were to get their consolation from some poor Wood defending at a corner. No matter, all in all it was a great day at the office from the girls in a thumping 1-5 away win.

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On a crisp autumn morning, Borehamwood 2000 Under-10 Girls arrived ready for action, shaking off the cobwebs after a week’s break. The young squad was led out by captain Juniper, their energy palpable as they faced the formidable Evergreen Youth.

The first quarter set the tone, with a thrilling back-and-forth that saw Borehamwood under early pressure. A crucial clearance from captain Juniper kept them in the game. Moments later, Maisie orchestrated a counterattack, spotting Ruby on the wing. With perfect timing, Ruby found Juniper, who coolly slotted in the opener for Borehamwood. The crowd erupted and the Wood Army was off to a flying start!

The early lead fired up Borehamwood. Elsie came agonizingly close with a powerful strike that just missed the mark. Then, Maisie turned playmaker once again, setting up Elsie, who blasted home Borehamwood's second. Borehamwood were in command and Juniper added her second of the game shortly after with a precise shot. Daisy had the crowd gasping with a long-range rocket that narrowly missed adding to the tally.

As the teams entered the second quarter, Amber took charge in defence, making well-timed challenges and crunching tackles that kept Evergreen at bay. The link-up play between Elsie and Daisy was brilliant, showing off their near-telepathic connection. Polly’s relentless runs up and down the pitch were mesmerizing, while Tippi controlled the centre with finesse, passing and pushing forward whenever possible. Daisy whipped in a corner, Elsie made a clever pass to Ruby, and Ruby didn’t hesitate, smashing home Borehamwood’s fourth.

In the third quarter, Evergreen added an extra player under the power play rule, making it 8 versus 7. This levelled the playing field, but the Wood Army stayed composed. Evergreen pressed more, but goalie Emily pulled off a fantastic one-on-one save to keep them out. Elsie’s well-taken free kick was blocked, but Tippi and Juniper tirelessly tracked back to support the defence. Polly’s speed and confidence helped keep Evergreen at arm’s length, whilst Sienna proved that she is not just there for her unbeatable defensive duties, but also her sublime dribbling skills with runs down the wing. 

The final quarter saw Gracie join the attack, bringing fresh energy and dazzling footwork that had Evergreen on their heels. Emily continued to be a fortress in goal, making critical diving saves, while Amber’s crucial clearance late in the quarter solidified Borehamwood’s defensive stand. As Evergreen tried to mount a comeback, Elsie’s composure allowed her to keep possession and set up Juniper, who dribbled her way through the centre and completed her hat trick with a powerful strike. Even so, Borehamwood didn’t let up, pushing forward to the final whistle.

As the whistle blew, Borehamwood celebrated a brilliant performance, showing resilience, teamwork, and adaptability that were unmatched. Captain Juniper led the three cheers for their worthy opponents, Evergreen Youth, ending the game in true sporting spirit. The Wood Army left the field triumphant, proud, and ready for whatever comes next!

The U16 Boys looked to extend their recent unbeaten run to five games in a Challenge Cup match against London Lions at Pursley. The Lions took our boys to penalties last year in the same competition and were not to be under-estimated despite currently playing in a lower division. The Wood also had a strong sense of purpose heightened by the absence of Montgomery, their mucker and team-mate continuing his battle back from illness.

The boys started well with good energy levels and accurate passing and this continued throughout the match. However, the many chances created were not converted, leaving the door open to the opposition to profit from defensive play that was not as solid as recent outings. The Wood were somewhat bemused to be 0-2 down in a half they’d dominated but, the score never lies and it was only a parried shot from Fan, crossed by Silva and dispatched confidently by Da Silva that saw the Wood close this gap, to go in 1-2 down at half time. The team talk then focused on what was some very good attacking football and continuing that, finishing with more accuracy and less power, while tightening up at the back.

The boys delivered and scored one of their best team goals to date, with Crucefix, Song, Zefi, and Makamian all playing effective, slick passes to release Silva who played another top quality match and scored his 10^th goal in five games to draw level. The Lions were not done yet though and produced the strike of the match that flew like an arrow, pure and straight into the top corner.

No matter, it was back down to business and the Wood equalised again, the gutsy Fan winning the ball and releasing Ifeacho, who enjoyed a much improved, simpler game and buried home in style. With the clock running down, the boys trusted each other and worked more opportunities with good, unselfish play and Da Silva, playing another very strong match, latched on to a Boshjaku free kick to slam home the ball, sealing a place for the team in the next round of this competition.

Sometimes things don’t go to plan and you suffer setbacks despite doing lots of things well. In all such cases, players that stay calm, trust their training and dig deep can overcome adversity. The boys did that really well today and can be proud of their efforts. Crucefix secured MoM with easily the most solid and aggressive tackling in the squad, while other performances of note came from Song and Makamian, who were effective due to their willingness to play the early ball. Marshall was assured between the sticks while Zefi improved his match day preparation, with a much improved performance naturally following on the pitch.

The boys face HMH Hawks in the League next week knowing three points will move them up to 3^rd in a very competitive division. Not easy but, achievable and training mid-week will be focused and driven in the search for success.

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Our U15 Boys were in fine form, dominating Bushey and Oxhey in a comprehensive 8-0 victory to push up the table ahead of a big Cup match against Harpenden next week.

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Our U14 girls had a rare home game today in the County Cup vs Hertford Town Belo. We expected a tough game and we certainly got it today, with Hertford employing all the tricks of the trade to try and ruffle our girls’ feathers!

Our now usual fast start shocked Hertford with the speed and ease our girls moved the ball around their powerful and physical runners. The girls put on a show for the first 20 mins and we needed goals to show for our early dominance, unfortunately they just didn’t come today no matter how hard No9 Gabby knocked with Lola & Elsinho providing assists and back up to our marauding 9.

The front 3 were creating lots of half chances only due to the stellar work of our midfield trio of skipper Annie, our ball playing maestro Aanya and our midfield monster Lucy. These 3 were at the heart of all that was good in the first half. The back 5 of GK Emily, CB pairing Ava & Poppy S and fullbacks Yvie and Theaya were also moving the ball around like prime Brazilian defenders, closing any gaps and avenues of attack for Hertford, then playing calmly into midfield to start our attacks.

Karadonna, Hazel, Poppy N and midfield enforcer Pheidi came into the fray and tried to help turn our dominance into goals; try as they might they couldn’t and at half time we went in at 0-0 but the moral victors.

The second half started with Riss in goal for Emily. Hertford came out and put a real shift in and started to push us back and play more in our half. Continued fouling and slowing down of attacks was now being punished by the ref and we started to wrest back some control and apply more pressure on Hertford’s defence again with tormentor in chief Gabby now joined up front by Light Speed Lucy in a change of system to 4-4-2 to try and break the deadlock.

The game was end to end with Hertford making the game a battle which they wanted as they couldn’t compete with our football. Constant probing and some long shots from Aanya, Poppy S & Theaya couldn’t get the goal out football deserved. We changed system again to a back 3 to get more goal threat on the pitch with Hazel, Karadonna and Poppy N; we were now a fluid 3-5-2 and Lucy was able to feed Gabby and also play off her which began to work a treat. Both teams huffed and puffed and the whistle went for full time and it was still 0-0.

So, straight to the dreaded pens! Skipper Annie who put in another skipper’s performance today chose to go second. We asked the girls who wanted to take a pen and 5 stepped forward. Ava, Yvie, Poppy S, Kara & Poppy N; we subbed Emily back on with 2 mins to go as she has bags of penalty shoot out experience.

Up stepped the first Hertford player and Emily did her best Grobbelaar impression dancing on the line pointing out where to shoot and generally being a nuisance. Miss. Advantage Wood. Up stepped Ava who calmly slotted home: 0-1 Wood. Pen 2, the Hertford player scored, up steps Yvie; bang, bottom corner: 1-2 Wood. Pen 3, the Hertford girl puts it over the bar and up steps Poppy S, bang, dispatched high and left of the static keeper: 1-3 Wood. Up steps the Hertford player and she scores for 2-3 now, all the pressure is on Karadonna our 4th taker who can win the tie if she scores. No doubt as Kara roles it into the bottom corner for a 4-2 win and wild celebrations as the Wood surge into the next round of the County Cup!

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Our U15 Girls took to the road for the first of a run of six consecutive scheduled away games. Today was a county cup tie away to fellow HGPFL Division 2 side Stevenage Starlets.

With a squad reduced to just 12 players it was important that we started strongly and took hold of the game, and that we certainly did. Abi set the ball rolling on 5 mins with a 20-Yard strike after robbing the opposition centre mid in the middle of the park. We were soon 2-0 up on 10 mins with Missy’s own 20-yard strike and first goal for the club. Not to be outdone, Milly crashed in the third goal of the game on 25 mins.  

We were dominating all of the pitch and some of the football really was a joy to watch.    More goals were certain to come and a brace from Amie Adams, including one in the top corner saw us go 5-0 up.

The only blemish on an otherwise perfect first half was conceding just before half time when we had re-shuffled the back line to allow Abi some time off for treatment of a dead leg. 5-1 the score at half time.

We talked at half time about not getting complacent and not gifting the host a route back into the game.  We started the second half well enough but the hosts definitely improved and pressed us higher and more physically.  This pressure brought them a goal on 55mins which they probably deserved at the time.  

Abi returned to the field to give us some more energy in midfield and we soon established ourselves back in the game. Our sixth goal arrived courtesy of some great link up play between Louella and Lilly VT with Louella then calmly finishing.  Another assist from Lilly set Louella away to score a late seventh goal (her 12th of the season) and close the game out as a contest. 

Apart from brief moments in the game our goalkeeper Nisa and back four were in complete control.   Led by skipper and player of the match Leni, and with a dominant performance from Lily B, Amy and Abi, we were very solid. In midfield Lilly VT was superb yet again and in the first half in particular the midfield trio of Lilly, Missy and Jess were totally dominant and played some great football. Missy stepping into midfield for the first time this season was first class. Jess won all her duals and worked tirelessly throughout. The attacking quartet of Milly, Amie, Louella and Hailey were a constant threat throughout and the Stevenage defence will be pleased to see the back of them for sure.

The first half was arguably the best we have played than season. The second half was more a battle which is no surprise as the heavy pitch sapped the energy from our girls, but they kept going and going and should all be very proud of that performance, particularly as a spot in the blue riband County Cup was secured!

Next up for the Wood is a league cup tie away to Division 1 side Harpenden Colts. It will be a tough game and we will need to be at our best to progress but we go into the tie in good form and with confidence.

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Our U10 Girls have been going like the clappers and had a fixture free week so jetted off to Dubai for some warm weather training. They'll be back next week straining at the leash!

It was a big day for our U16 Boys as they faced Hitchin in the premier Herts FA County Trophy. Hitchin went unbeaten in their league last season and had enjoyed another five straight wins this season in Div 1 of the Mid Herts league; they turned up exuding the confidence such excellent runs engender. However, the Wood were in determined mood themselves and having played a who’s who of top opponents in recent times, were able to forgot about their opponents and just concentrate on the job at hand and what they needed to do individually and collectively, with everything else falling nicely into place if this was achieved.

Thereafter, the boys were very good indeed, with the midfield in particular raising levels to swamp Hitchin almost immediately. Central to this was MoM Da Silva, playing deeper and involved fully from the off, releasing Silva who served notice of what was to come with a sharp shot parried by the away keeper. Soon after, the lively Wood wingers combined with McGuinness sending in an excellent cross that was cooly dispatched back post by Makamian, only for the away linesmen to flag for a highly debatable offside.

Undeterred, the boys piled forward and Da Silva was upended in the box for a penalty he was to take; the keeper guessed correctly but, Silva was on hand to bury the rebound home with his usual standing foot! Shortly after, Da Silva won a header centrally that released McGuinness; he raided forward before feeding Silva, spinning his man then finishing in style.

Fan, enjoying another excellent game, won the ball in midfield before linking up with Silva and then dispatching the purest left foot shot into the right hand stanchion of the goal and it was 4-0 at half time when Silva curled home from a cleverly flighted free kick he had won himself. A brilliant half of football which effectively broke the back of the contest.

The second half saw Green take up the cudgels from Da Silva and he played in the same vein; popping up all over the midfield, winning the ball and displaying a wide range of accurate passing, while Pop was industrious and competitive in defence. Nevertheless, Hitchin pulled one back from the penalty spot despite an incredible save from Elboukhari and what looked like an outstanding saving tackle from Captain Boshjaku. However, Ifeacho scampered down the wing soon after before delivering a superb cross for McGuinness to arrive back post like all good wingers, slamming home for 5-1. Boshjaku and McGuinness then combined to send Silva away, his jinking run ending in a spectacular 4^th goal of the game for him.

The Wood had time for one more very good goal; technical combination play from the midfield of Fan, Crucefix and Green fed Silva who dummied for Da Silva to slide home for number 7. A late consolation goal from Hitchin left a slightly bitter taste as five Wood players failed to stop the surging winger but, all in all it was a very solid performance and the boys move forward to face Berkhamsted Raiders Red away in the 2^nd round of this prestigious trophy.

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After coming out 3-2 winners against Hemel Athletic last week, our U15 Boys played another tight match against this opponent, the match ending 3-2 to Hemel this time around. The boys continue to make good progress and look forward to a home match against Bushey and Oxhey Kestrels next.

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The indomitable U14 girls had no game again this week after our opponents pulled out. This would have been our 3rd week stood down but we managed to arrange another friendly this time against our new friends at Luton Town Ladies. We played this very talented U13 side today in a very tight affair at our new surrogate home ground in Potters Bar.

The game got off to a frenetic start with both teams fighting to gain control and to win the battle for control of the ball, this ended up being about 50/50 in the end. Today’s POM Lucy was in imperious form, the kind that makes her a joy to behold on the pitch; at times unstoppable & unplayable. Aided by the drive and skill of skipper Annie and schemer Aanya this midfield 3 is a tough ask for most teams but Luton where up to it today with their fantastic No6 a real standout performer.

The back four of Yvie, Ava, Poppy S & Theaya had their hands full with the pacy and direct Luton Town forwards and we witnessed some great 1v1 battles. Luton tended to attack for the most part down their right hand side and Isabella came on to add her pace and tenacity there, competing well and blocking this avenue to Luton in what was her best performance to date.

Elsie, Lola and No9 Poppy N had a battle on their hands against a quick and tough Luton back 4. Hazel, Kara and Pheidi came on to try and change the game a bit which their constant running did.

Emily one of our 2 magnificent GK’s had an excellent first half and her speed off her line helped the defence out on numerous occasions. Emily mopped up the danger in her own standout performance of the season so far. We went in playing on the hill 0-0 and fancied our chances of getting the win in the second half. Luton Town also had the same idea and came out on fire in the second half, the game was becoming an arm wrestle again with neither side giving quarter.

It looked like it would be a mistake from someone that would cause the winner of this game with the 2 evenly matched sides slugging it out and that was to be the case and the mistake was from the Wood management team as we made our subs with 18 to go and we only sent 10 girls back out onto the pitch; Luton took full advantage and scored when we only had 3 defenders on!!

We decided we needed to add some missing pace to our front line, so we switched Lucy up front and it wasn’t long before she was stretching Luton and pulling a great save out of the Luton keeper. Lucy beat two markers for skill, pace and strength and then fingertips denied the deserved equaliser. Aanya stung the GK’s hands with a late free kick and in the resulting melee we hit the bar and couldn’t convert.

The final whistle came and it was a 1-0 loss to a fantastic Luton side but football really was the winner today in what was an excellent match between two good sides. We hope to get a return game with Mark and his great bunch of girls in the not too distant future as we both benefited from the action today.

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Our U10 Girls were back in action at Pursley, this time against a handy Hitchin Belles, who were also a very tall and powerful looking side. It was captain Daisy who took the lead this week. Walking Borehamwood out to a very confident start to the game, with power plays and an early shot from Elsie to keep Hitchin on their toes.

Leah and Sienna were human shields at the back, deflecting Hitchin’s strong attackers and keeping the balls flying off to the sides. Tippi’s passing was something to be amazed at and with a swift ball through to Daisy, Borehamwood was on the score sheet! Polly kept the pace going with her typically buccaneering and brilliant runs.

In the second quarter we saw Amber and Anisia in defence with their determination to keep out Hitchin’s flying attack. Another few goal chances came from Elsie and Daisy, and Ruby was so close to scoring another one for the Wood too. Ruby’s incredible runs were great to watch throughout; she just never gives up. While between the sticks, keeper Emily made many great saves on a slick, slippery surface where ball handling was a real challenge. Wood warrior!

Maisie took her up front duties very seriously and kept attacking the Hitchin defenders with determination throughout. She definitely did her 10k steps! With grit and determination, the third quarter saw Elsie have another strong strike only to miss the post by an inch! It was captain Daisy who came flying in from the right to score a whopping goal just inside the box - the crowd went wild!

However, the defenders didn’t have time to waste and it was straight back to business with Sienna and Leah clearing balls every which way, Anisia launching big clearances down the field and Emily on high alert, all meaning Hitchin were going to have to work very hard to breach this formidable rear-guard action! At the other end, Tippi had two strong attempts at goal that only just got caught by the Hitchin stopper.

The final quarter saw Ruby rocketing up the wing desperately trying to find Tippi, Elsie and Maisie up front. Amber worked hard as always as one of our prominent defenders. She never shies away from a tackle that girl! And with continued great clearances from Leah and Sienna we were able to defend all chances in the final quarter. Anisia kept the pressure on throughout and Emily made multiple confident saves.

The girls learnt so much today, showing great strength and determination as a team to never give up. Defending against some physically bigger opponents was nothing for Sienna who won our player of the match with her continued and vital clearances, while it was Daisy’s determination and great finishes that earned her a well deserved player of the match from Hitchin.

We are all so immensely proud of how they have progressed with amazing runs, passes and finding that space. The crowd were electric which always helps and coach Emma absolutely smashed her very first game. Thank you to everyone for their support but thank you girls for inspiring us every week and showing us what true team work and spirit really is. WOOD ARMY!