Chingford
Athletic
Football
Club

Athetic got back to winning ways in style this week as they comfortably over-run bottom of the table Trelawny. It what was a potential banana-skin in their chase for 2nd spot in the league, and turning up for the game with no subs, there was rightly no complacency shown by Chingford. Dominating the game from the first whistle it always looked a question of 'how many' instead of if Chingford would actually win, but it took 20 minutes for them to find the opener. A fine ball from Abilio, the first of 4 assists from the midfielder, found striker Collins who cooly finished just inside the area. Once Chingford forced their way ahead they managed to control the game and kept possession a lot better with several good passing moves ending in near misses. The visitors did manage to extend their lead just after the half hour mark through Bowers' fine volley on the edge of the area, and the lead was made three when William ran onto another Abilio throughball and slotted it past the keeper.

The second half continued in much the same manner with Athletic dominating and creating chances for fun and it wasn't long before the scoreboard changed again. This time new boy Simmons got in on the act and swiftly collected his second goal, as did Collins throughout an eventful second half. Trelawny did manage a consolation goal just as they were trailing 4-0 but this didn't stop Chingford surging forward in search of more goals. The score was 6-1 and there was still enough time for Thompson to get his name on the scoresheet for the third game running, and Bowers headed the eighth with the final touch of the match to grab his second of the game.

Overall it was a very comfortbale but very accomplished performance from everyone of the Chingford players and it was just what they needed a few recent cup defeats.

Oh, and James Morley was in goal somewere and made 1 save which wasn't too shabby. Not man of the match stuff from Morley though, although to be honest it was such a team effort that no-one gets it this week.

Chingford's torrid 2010 continued in a mud-soaked league encounter against London & Essex. With the pitch resembling a mix between a mud bath and Southend beach, pretty passing football was never going to be easy and the contest was always going to come down to who could put their chances away. The visitors began much the stronger side with several effors going close and Morley having very little to do in the first 15 minutes. Left back Roberts and new left winger Luke were linking up well and makeshift forward Tharratt was working well with Connor, and it was these players that made the opening goal. Roberts and Luke worked the ball down the left wing and as the cross came into the box Tarratt beat his marker to slide in and stear the ball into the net. The problem with Athletic at the moment though is that they are unable to hold onto leads and this was the case once again as within ten minutes of taking the lead, the game was level again as a corner for the home side wasn't cleared at the first attempt and L&E had a striker on hand to tap home the loose ball. Chingford re-grouped and surged forward again forcing a number of corners and attacking free-kicks. It was from one of these corners that they regained the lead as Tharratt whipped in a good delivery and Thompson rose above his marker at the back post to head home his second goal in as many games. This should have been the incentive Athletic needed to wrap the game up but they again allowed their lead to slip as a loose high ball wasn't dealt with and as the ball was slid into the Chingford area everyone seemed to stop and look, all except for the attacker who toe-poked home from 6 yards.

The second half was complete one-way traffic as it seemed just a question of when Chingford would score, and not if. However, some rushed finishing and unimaginative build up play meant they were somehow denied the victory. Chingford seemed to think they had to score from outside the box as numerous 20 yard shots missed the target. Only Thompson with another header from a corner and Joseph cutting in from the right got close to scoring as the keeper tipped over from the former, and the post denying the later. There was absolutely nothing to trouble the Chingford defence adn Morley was just a spectator for much of the second half but frustratingly, the game ended 2-2 and the points were shared. 

Man of the match goes to the one player who looked a constant threat for Chingford and who seemed to be the one who would be able to unlock the tight London & Essex defence and that goes to new-boy Luke. It was an impressive debut and hopefully a sign of the good things to come from the left midfielder.

Possibly Chingford's best chance of silverware this season slipped through their grasp this week as they lost an entertaining match with league rivals Redbridge Elite. With the pre-match focus being on the location of the game the fact that there was a semi-final place up for grabs was almost lost on both sides until the first whistle blew. Chingford reverted back to a standard 4-4-2 formation with Peace being drafted in to support fellow striker Connor and they started much the stronger side as several long balls over the visitors backline forced numerous set-pieces from which Chingford threatened. Firstly a corner was headed just over the bar from skipper Thompson then from the next corner they forced, the ball was played short to Clarke who crossed for Thompson to beat his marker and volley in from 8 yards. It was a dream start for Athletic following a couple of recent disappointing results but just five minutes later the game was back in the balance as Redbridge attacked down the right and the ball was squared for the attacker to drill in at the back post. This was slightly against the run of play and Chingford soon restored their goal advantage when Pearce and Connor linked up well with the former playing a fine throughball and Connor struck across goal with the ball somewhat fortunately bouncing over the keepers outstretched arm into the corner. It was nothing less than the hosts deserved but they failed to learn from their previous mistake and again let Elite back into the game. A corner was swung over and a lack of communication allowed a free header at the back post and the scores were level again. Just before the break Pearce seemed to have added a third but was controversially adjudged to have been offside, but this didnt prevent Athletic taking the lead before the break. Another Chingford corner was cleared only as far as Thompson who knocked the ball straight back into the box and the hard-working clarke took a touch to control then passed the ball into the net as the defenders appealed for offside.

 The second half could not have been any different however as Elite absolutely dominated. The first goal of the second half was always going to be crucial and within ten minutes the scores were level as Redbridge managed to break forward with 4 against 4 and some good movement lead to Morley being beaten again. If it wasnt for Morley making at least four top class saves in the next 35 minutes the scores could have even more one-sided but as it was Redbridge continued to pile bodies forward and went infront for the first time in the match with half an hour remaining. Chingford's hard work and fighting ability seemed to have been drained out of them as they had no answer for the constant Redbridge attacks. The game was made safe as Redbridge added another two goals in the space of five minutes to make it 6-3 and it was quarter-final heartbreak for the second time in two weeks for Athletic.

Athletic faced up against a well-drilled and organised Newham side who were looking to continue their defence of the East Ham Memorial Cup in this quarter final tie. The pitch was just about classed as playable despite certain areas being pretty wet but the away side will be glad the game went ahead. In the early stages it was impossible to tell which side was from the Olympian League and which was from the Ilford & District as Chingford fought well and more than held their own against the team 1 league and 12 places above them. Set pieces looked like being the main route of an opener from the home side as several free-kicks and long throws were somehow cleared as well as the odd chance from Connor and Tharrett among others flashing just wide. However, despite the terrortorial advantage it was Newham that opened the scoring via route one with a long ball over the top which was cooly converted by their striker. The major turning point came after about 25 minutes when the Newham striker again raced clear and all centre back Nicholas could do was slide in but take man first and consequently saw red. This meant a formation change and left Connor as the lone striker, and he had a endless job of scrapping for any ball in order to try and carve out any chances for Chingford. A second goal from a corner meant Athletic went two down just before half time even though they had probably had double the amount of attempts at goal than the away team.

 The second half was always going to be about who got the first goal and despite a positive first ten minutes from Chingford it was Newham that scored again and effectively put the game beyond any doubt. The home side tried to battle bravely and still created a couple of half chances but by this time they were fighting a losing battle, and the extra man was now a major factor with several Athletic legs beginning to look heavy in the muddy conditions. Newham continued to soak up the pressure at the back without allowing any clear cut chances, again only set pieces looked to give Chingford any hope of scoring, and the visitors made the result look comfortable with two goals in the last ten minutes which meant the final winning margin was five, and despite a couple of superb saves from Chingford keeper Morley, it could have been more. However, had some early chances and a couple of big decisions gone Chingford's way, things could have been very different.

There were definitely some positives to take from the game, none more so than Clarke and Abilio's fine performances in the centre of midfield, but also highlighted the harsh facts that you have to take your chances when they are presented at the higher level. It was just a shame that the day ended with some in-house arguements which will get the team nowhere.

Athletic returned to action following a lengthy break over Christmas which was extended due to the bad weather and as a result this potentially fiery game never really got going. Both teams were looking for a vital win to continue their own push towards the top of the league and the first half showed that neither team wanted to lose the game. Chances were few and far between with Redbridge only threatening from distance but Morley was rarely troubled. At the other end Rowlatt and Connor were looking bright with limited quality service and the home keeper looked nervous but no-either team could find the breakthrough. The challenges were flying in especially in a crowded central area were Clarke and Abilio were working hard to control the Redbridge midfield. The pitch didnt really cater for slick passing and began to cut up early on but both sides continued to try and play ther passing games.

The second half started in much the same fashion as 10 minutes wet by with neither side creating any clear chances but then came the turning point as the first goal in the game was always going to be crucial and it was the home side who grabbed it. A shot from the edge of the Chingford box was well saved by Morley but following up was a Redbridge attacker who tapped home the rebound. This goal spurred Chingford, and the game in general, into life and within 10 minutes Chingford had earned themselves a penalty when the lively Tharratt was chopped down in the box. Connnor stepped up but his strike was too close to the keeper and it was turned round for a corner. Chingford contined to press and earned several corners as the chances were all starting to come their way, Rowlatt could have had a couple on what proved to be his last game for the club, the post was struck, a shot was cleared off the line with the keeper beat, and other chances just didnt seem to fall for the blue of Chingford. Typically, just as Chingford were pushing for the equiliser, they were caught on the counter and Redbridge scored a second to make the game safe with just under ten minutes to go. Chingford should have still won another penalty when Rowlatt was knocked over when about to tap into an empty net but it wasn't Chingford's day and they will now be looking for revenge in next week's cup meeting.

Athletic continued their impressive league form with a thoroughly deserved victory over rivals Redbridge Elite this week. This game had all the makings of a classic and it didn't fail to live up to it's pre-match billing as both sides tried to play attractive football but still put in the physical tough-tackling duties as well. The home side reverted back to their favoured 4-4-2 formation and for the first 15 minutes it seemed like it was the right move with Rowlatt and Clarke twice going close to giving Chingford the lead. However, slightly against the run of play Elite took the lead in controversial style as the forward seemed to dribble the ball at least a yard off the pitch before cutting inside and firing a shot past Ulasan, who was on as an early sub for the injured Morley. Despite the appeals the goal stood but Chingford responded well with more pressure on the away goal. They continued to hustle the Elite back four into mistakes and this lead to the equiliser, with Rowlatt closing down well and the deflection falling into the path of strike partner Connor who slotted home from six yards. The talking points continued to mount up as Rowlatt surged into the Redbridge penalty area and past his marker, only to be clearly tripped before getting a shot on goal. However, the decision was a goal kick and play contined. To make matters worse just five minutes later a Redbridge attack down their left lead to their winger getting into the by-line and trying to cross. In the process Chingford right-back Reeves was less than a yard away and despite the ball striking his arm, it seemed like it was anything but intentional. However, the ref saw it differently and with the following penalty being successful, Chingford went into the break somehow trailing 2-1.

The second half saw Athletic come out firing in all departments and determined to make up for the first half. They kept the ball better and continued to pressurise Redbridge players until the mistake was made, which lead to several corners and attacking set-pieces for Chingford, probably their most likely way of scoring and this proved to be the case. After an hour a long Roberts throw came into the Redbridge box and skimmed off a defender's head forcing the keeper to save. The rebound came back to Thompson who flicked towards goal but the ball was tipped onto the bar and fell to the feet of Rowlatt to tap home on the goal line. Roberts was again the provider for the third with a fine free-kick from the left which O'Donovan leapt well to flick on towards the back post and into the net. There were scenes of jubilation as the Chingford players showed exactly what this game meant to them but had to be aware that there was still ten minutes remaining. However, the goal-scoring was complete when a long ball from Nichols looped over the Elite backline and Rowlatt beat a stuttering keeper to the ball and made the game safe. Overall it was a fully deserved win for Chingford, who gave the opposition absolutely no time to relax on the ball, and especially in the second half, showed that they have real potential to become a successful team. There were also some terrific personal performances from, among others, right back Reeves, the centre midfield pairing of Clarke and Ferdinand, and the hard working Connor upfront, but the star of the show was early sub Ulasan in the Chingford goal. He made three or four top-class saves as well as being reliable and holding everything that came his way all game.

Athletic suffered a surprise cup exit at the hands of Newtown Westley in an eventful 90 minutes of action at Elmbridge. Going into the game on the back of four wins out of four, confidence was high in the Chingford camp, even though they were upagainst a team they knew very little about. The home side lined up in a 4-5-1 formation with Rowlatt leading the line on his own with the main aim being to win the all-important midfield battle. Despite a fairly even first 15 minutes Chingford took the lead when a ball down the right was played straight across goal for the unmarked Tharrett to tap home at the back post. It was a dream start for Athletic and it was made better when five minutes later Newtown were reduced to ten men following a needless stamp off the ball by one of their defenders. It seemed like the game was already there for the taking for Chingford but the sending off if anything seemed to inspire greater determination from the away side. Following a few minutes of strong pressure they got their equiliser when a ball from out wide fell inbetween the Chingford keeper and back four, and the Westley striker was on hand to finish well. Athletic went close a couple more times before the break following a couple of long free-kicks into the box and a thunderous strike from Clarke was somehow clawed away by the visiting keeper.

The second half saw Newtown make a change and bring on a new striker and the fresh legs paid off within the opening 10 minutes as he stretched the Chingford defence, squared to a team mate who shot past Ulasan via a wicked deflection.As if that wasn't bad enough the visitors extended their lead just minutes later with another smart finish. At 3-1 down it seemed that the game was all but gone from Chingford and you could sense the desperation in their play as some of their earlier passing football ended up going to a more route one tactic with little time remaining. It was from a long Thompson ball upfield that fellow centre-back Arnold did well to beat the defender to, and he somehow managed to toe-poke the ball past the Newtown keeper to bring the score to 3-2. However, with only a couple of minutes remaining, and a decent penalty shout being turned down, Athletic were unable to create anymore chances and the visitors held on for a narrow victory.

Overall it wasn't the desired result but there are still other cups and the league to concentrate on so Chingford must not dwell this result for too long, especially with the tricky league game against Redbridge this week.

Despite all the wind and rain during the week, as well as a venue change, this league match still went ahead, albeit in terrible conditions. Chingford were a few of players short of full strength with Joseph, Nicholas and Tharratt missing against one of the strongest teams in the league, but still come into the game full of confidence after winning their previous three games. However, the visitors got off to the worst possible start as a long goal kick somehow flew into the wind and over the Chingford backline for the St Francis forward to cooly finish with a smart lob over keeper Morley. Despite this early setback Chingford pushed forward and forced a few half chances, mainly from wind-assisted set pieces. The St Francis keeper was also in inspired form as he somehow made three saves within 10 seconds in a goalmouth scramble following a long Roberts throw. The equiliser came after 15 minutes when Connor followed in a cross shot and was on hand to knock the ball home from close range, and it was exactly what they deserved. The pressure continued as Ferdinand and Alderman also went close to putting Chingford ahead but despite the pressure, the score remained 1-1 at half time, and it could have been worse if it wasn't for a fantastic one on one save from Morley on the stroke of half time. Chingford were thinking if they were going to be made to pay for the missed chances now that they faced 45 minutes attacking into the strong wind. With the weather being the main factor, St Francis enjoyed a large spell of possession at the start of the second half as they were camped in the Chingford half, but despite this, the backline were holding firm and Morley was rarely tested. Chingford however, still threatened on the counter attack and it was one of their free-flowing moves that lead to their second goal with Abilio winning the ball back on the edge of their own box, who played it to O'Donovan in the centre circle and his ball over the top meant Rowlatt raced onto it who finished typically well. Despite going ahead against the run of play, Chingford were battling hard and showed their resilience. However, with just 15 minutes remaining St Francis finally broke the Chingford backline to get into a great goalscoring position as their winger crossed the ball from the byline straight across goal and the forward was there to finish, or so he should have done. Somehow, the defence got back and blocked the first shot, and the second, then the ball broke to another home player who smashed his shot against the post from 8 yards. It was exactly the warning Chingford needed that the game wasn't over just yet but no more than five minutes later substitute Pearce had put the game beyond any doubt as a long ball caught the wind and curled round the St Francis backline nicely for Pearce to slide past the keeper into the corner of the net, and the three points were safe.

Overall, it was probably one of Chingford's best performances this season. Not neccessarily pleasing on the eye but fully effective considering the conditions.

Athletic continued to show that they are the team to fear in cup competitions this year with another comprehensive victory, this week over league one side Glendale. Since both sides have started the season in good form this was expected to be a tough game to call and a potential cup upset was on the cards. However, all worries of an upset were eased from a Chingford perspective within the opening 10 minutes of the match. Glendale were caught cold as Chingford nocked the ball around right from the first whistle and scored with both of their first two attacks, the first finished with a drilled shot from O'Donovan and the second finished by Rowlatt for his first of four goals for the day. Perhaps as a result of these two early goals the game went a bit scrappy with lots of tackles being made by both sides but not many efforts on goal at either end. Chingford always looked the dangerous from open play, especially from O'Donovan and Ferdinand out wide on either wing, and Glendale's only threat was from set-pieces using the height advantage. However, the chingford defence shackled 'Dale's attackers and Morley only had one shot on goal to save in the first half. The only set-back from the first hal for Chingford was Abilio going off early on with a slight knock but with Clarke being his replacement the quality in the side didn't drop. Things didn't change much for the first 15 minutes of the second half as again, the home team's long ball game was suiting Chingford and it was the visitors who struck the crucial third goal of the game to put the result beyond any doubt, Rowlatt again finishing well. The floodgates began to open from then as the Glendale heads dropped and Chingford were spurred on by the extra time and space being allowed to them. Rowlatt grabbed his hat-trick shortly after and O'Donovan got his second of the tie with a tap in after another Rowlatt assist. The only panic for anyone at the back for Chingford in the second half was Morley realising that the sun is bright and not thinking that he might need a cap for the second half. However, after much shouting and screaming the panic was over and there was just time for Rowlatt to get one more despite being clattered from behind just as he passed the ball past the oncoming keeper which meant Chingford followed up last week's 9-0 thumping with a 6-0 drubbing this week. With confidence sky high at the moment it's fair to say no team in the league will fancy travelling to Elmbridge in the next round but that is exactly what awaits East Londoners.

Like last week it was a real team effort again so the man of the match award is tough to call but it would be have to be some performance to beat someone who scored 4 out of the team's 6 goals, so for that record it goes to striker Chris Rowlatt, although O'Donovan and Morley (not really James!) weren't too far behind!

Chingford eased into the next round of the Essex County Cup with a 9-0 thumping of Collier Row, and the scoreline was nothing less than what Chingford deserved. From start to finish the home side dominated the match and in the end it was a question of how many as the result was never in doubt. Chingford lined up in a new formation employing Rowlatt as the lone striker and O'Donovan deploying a deeper role in midfield. This allowed the wingers to push forward at will with the help of the attacking full-backs. Athletic began passing the ball around throughout the team with ease right from the first whistle and soon took the lead as O'Donovan smashed home from 8 yards out after being played through by Rowlatt. The second and third goals soon followed from Rowlatt and Clarke and the game was as good as over as a contest. Row seemed to have no answer to Athletic's passing and moving and the midfield trio of Abilio, Clarke and O'Donovan were particularly impressive in setting the tempo for Chingford's attacking play, as well as closing down the opposition at every possible opportunity. The lead was increased to six by half time with another Rowlatt strike as well as a smart finish to a good passing move from Tharratt and an own goal after a Joseph cross. The second half was much of the same for Chingford who were comfortable passing the ball from back to front and flank to flank stretching the visitors. Left back Roberts got his well-deserved goal, as did opposite full-back Marvin after two flowing moves down either wing. Clarke also got his second of the match as the oppositions head's went down. There were several pleasing parts of the performance and it was certainly noted how the team morale seemed much better than previous weeks with the team helping each other out and this also lead to much harder work in closing down the opposition when we didn't have the ball, and good support and movement when we did have possession.  

 Man of the match could have been anybody this week but it was all about the two youngest team members. Any other week Vee's performance would have got him the prize but this week he was pipped by a fine performance, and a deserved goal, from Matt Roberts.

London & Essex got their revenge on league rivals Chingford this week following their cup game at the start of the season in which Chingford won 2-1. The game was just as even this time round but it was the finishing of both teams that proved to be the difference. Whereas Chingford were wasteful infront of goal with several chances going begging and their general play in the attacking third of the pitch somewhat rushed, at the other end the away team had two chances at goal and were rewarded with two goals. The game started with both teams pushing players forward in search of the opening goal and it came after about 20 minutes courtesy of a long throw from London & Essex, which was flicked on at the near post deceiving everyone and looping in the far corner. This spurred Chingford forward and they looked threatening everytime they tried to pass their way to goal. Long balls were not working against a tall and physical away team but once the ball was played on the floor in the opposition half, chances began to be created but unfortunately none were taken. It was clear that the home side were the better footballing team and proved so with some neat passing moves, especially once the ball was spread wide. However, L&E always seemed to win any loose balls and looked like they wanted to win the ball a bit more than Chingford. The second half continued in much the same manor with the Chingford defenders comfortably clearing up the long balls continually played by the away team, but at the other end Athletic continued to miss the target with their efforts at goal as the nerves began to show. With 25 minutes remaining L&E doubled their lead thanks to another looping header from their forward and it seemed to kill off the game slightly. Chingford continued to plug away and had numerous attempts at goal right up until the final whistle but were unable to breach the away defence who, credit to them, were all very solid but had things a little bit too easy. Hopefully next week CAFC can recover some form and have a chance to concentrate on the cup competition for a week.

Athletic gained another three points thanks to a clinical display from striker Chris Rowlatt this week. The pitch was nothing short of shocking but Chingford still tried to get the ball down with their neat passing game and when they did, they were a major attacking threat. The first passing move that was put together created the opening goal as the ball was won at the back by Thompson who headed on to Bowers to play Tharratt in down the left and he crossed for Rowlatt to finish a fine move. A second was added just moments later after a cross from the right fell to Tharratt at the back post who volleyed home emphatically. The home side were let back into the game after a slip at the back allowed the Barolle striker in on goal and he finshed well. The second half was all Chingford as attack after attack brought the Barolle keeper into action and Rowlatt soon made the game safe with a couple of cool finishes and a well taken penalty after good work from Abilio. Rowlatt ended the game with five goals to his name and there was some fine displays from the Chingford team to assist him. The only down side was that once the result was beyond any doubt with Chingford 6-1 ahead, Athletic allowed the home side a couple of consolation goals to take the gloss off the result. Overall though, it was a very pleasing peformance and after the hard work and strong tackles, it was a well deserved victory.

Chingford chalked up their first three points of the season against new-boys East London Elite this week, just what was needed to get their season back on track after last week's disappointment. Straight from the first whistle Chingford managed to stamp their authority on the game with some crisp passing moves opening up the visitors defence and they didn't have to wait long to break the deadlock. Just 15 minutes had been played when the ball was played in from the left and Kierans was waiting at the back post to fire home low into the corner. The second came just moments later as a result of good pressure from Rowlatt down the Chingford right led to a shot on goal which he scuffed but the ball fell kindly into the path of strike-partner Connor who made no mistake from six yards. Chingford then took their foot off the pedal and allowed the away team back into the game as they twice got caught out on the counter attack. It looked like the scores would be level going into the break but just a minute before the whistle Chingford forced a corner, which resulted in a penalty as Thompson was fouled just as the ball arrived to him in the box. Rowlatt did the rest from the spot and Chingford once more had the lead. The second half was one of few clear chances as firstly East London had the majority of possession before Chingford began to pass the ball better and threaten the away goal again. The fourth came as a result of another corner, this time from the boot of O'Donovan, who smashed the ball home after the original cross had been cleared to the edge of the area. That sealed the win and the game fizzled out for the final few minutes as Chingford comfortbaly held on for all three points. 

Chingford's league season got off to a disappointing start againt local rivals Castle United this week. There was plenty of rivalry and tension before the game, which was spiced up further by the pre-season departures of O'Donovan and Rowlett from Castle to Chingford. The game started exactly as expected, both teams battling for every loose ball, strong tackles flying in, and as a result a lack of clear cut chances infront of goal. Castle had the first half-chance from a corner and had a free bac-post header which flew just wide. At the other end new boys Rowlatt and O'Donovan both had chances to score against their former club but it wasn't to be and the half time whistle came with the scores still level. Castle began the second half fired up and took the lead within 5 minutes of the restart with a tap-in after the ball was bouncing around in the Chingford penalty area. Disaster struck for Chingord when Castle doubled their lead shortly after and it seemed like the game was flowing away from the team in blue. Athletic managed to regroup slightly after the second goal and forced a couple of corners and efforts on goal but nothing that seriously threatend the Castle keeper. At the other end the home side were looking dangerous on the break and this proved decisive with 10 minutes remaining as a long ball over the top caught out the Athletic defence and the Castle striker calmly slotted home. It was certainly not the start Chingford had hoped for to the league season but you'd have to feel Castle are going to be challenging for the title this year so provided possibly the toughest test all season, one which unfortunately Chingford fell short of. However, the season is only one game old and there are still plenty of points to play for.

Chingford got their competitive season off to a winning start in the East Ham Memorial Cup thanks to a last minute winner against Premier League rivals London & Essex. The home side were put under pressure from the first whistle as they struggled to get a grip on the game and the visitors were dominating possession. As the game continued Chingford became an attacking force and they began looking dangerous with every attack as Rowlatt and O'Donovan both had chances to open the scoring. Midway through the first half Athletic managed to find the net as O'Donovan slipped a ball through to strike-partner Rowlatt who lobbed the onrushing keeper with a cool finish. Further half chances were wasted by Chingford, as well as having a goal disallowed, and the half time whistle blew. The second half started with a bang as Lonodn & Essex almost immediately got back on level terms as a ball over the top allowed their forward to race through and strike low past Morely. The game at this point was quite even but the turning point came with 20 minutes remaining when the visitors were reduced to 10 men, which meant Chingford dominiated possession from then on and there looked like only would team would win. Athletic did everything but score with several chances missing the target from O'Donovan, Clarke and Arnold. With just a minute remaining and extra time looking the most likely outcome a cross was played in from the chingford right, O'Donovan beat his marker in the air and headed past a stranded keeper to put Chingford into the next round of the cup.

A tight, fiercly-fought contest was in store for both teams this week as last years league rivals met for an end of pre-season friendly. This was meant to be an even battle, with tough tackles flying in but with just 10 minutes played Clockwork's main threat was injured and left the field. With no subs the visitors were down to 10 men and effectively ended this game as a level contest. However, take nothing away from Chingford as they kept the ball and controlled the tempo of the game for the remaining 80 minutes. Some neat passing and good movement off the ball Clockwork had no answer as their shaky defence was tested time after time. Tharrett was enjoying the freedom of the Chingford right midfield and within the opening half an houe he had 3 goals to his name as well as a further two assists. Bowers and Rowlatt (2) were also on the scoresheet by this time and the score was 6-0 at half time. The second half conitnued in the same pattern of Chingford looking like scoring every time they attacked as all but James Morley in the Chingford goal were camped in the Clockwork half. The scoring continued with Kierans, Thompson, and a stunning strike from Abilio, as well as an OG taking the score to double figures. O'Donovan and another two from Rowlatt completed the scoring for Athletic who conceed a consolation goal for Clockwork with just minutes remaining. Surely this emphatic win will mean spirits and confidence is sky-high for the competitive season which gets underway next week.

Chingford's first team faced a commited Debden side this week in a fiercly contested 'friendly' which proved a good test of their credentials for the upcoming season. Athletic started the game well and created a number of chances with some neat passing moves, as well as looking dangerous from set-pieces. For all the attractive football played, it was a long ball over the top from Thompson which fell into the path of Rowlatt and he hit a stunning first-time shot from the edge of the area past the keeper. More chances were created by Chingford with O'Donovan hitting the post when clean through and Rowlatt putting a free-kick inches over with the keeper beat. At the other end Debden had few chances and Athletic grew in confidence as the match progressed. Rowlatt doubled the lead and his own goal tally with another smart finish just before half time. The second half saw the intensity highten and challenges began to fly in. Just when Debden had a dangerous five minute spell Chingford managed to break and Rowlatt was sent tumbling in the box to win a dubious penalty. He picked himself up and completed his hat-trick much to the annoyance of the Debden defence. O'Donovan finally got on the score sheet after picking the ball up on the break following a Debden attack and Ferdinand also found the net with a well-taken finish midway through the second half. Overall it was a well-deserved win for Athletic who come through their latest pre-season test in emphatic style.

Chingford fielded a mixed team this week for their game against Epping Reserves and this showed early in the game as both sides were wasteful in possession and neither side could get any momentum. With so many defenders in the squad Athletic opted for a wing back system but fell behind after 20 minutes to a fine finish. Chingford equilised through Rowlatt just before half time and it was probably a fair score going into the break. The second half started in the same fasion, Epping having the share of possession but the Chingford defence was keeping things tight. However, Epping restored their lead after 60 minutes and minutes later doubled their lead, somewhat harshly on Athletic. A few injuries in the second half also meant that Ahletci struggled to find shape and consistency and as a result, they were unable to find a way back into the match.

Chingford played hosts to Hale End as their preparation for the new season continued. They named a strong line up against a respectable opposition and were quickly in the ascendency with Rowlatt, Thompson and O'Donovan all having early chances to open the scoring. After 15 minutes of action Danny Alderman scrambled the ball home at the third time of asking at the back post after a deep cross from Joseph on the left wing. Athletic continued to dominate with the midfield pressing the visitiors well and the defence looking increasingly comfortable. O'Donovan finally found the target after an excellent passing move involving almost every Chingford player to go two up before half time and it was no more than what they deserved. Chingford looked relaxed on the ball and were making Hale End work hard. The second half was a different stroy though with the game becoming increasing open and Chingford losing their shape, and the ball, all too often. Their lead was halved only a few minutes into the second half and had to cling onto their lead as Hale End kept getting nearer to the equiliser. However, the fourth and decisive goal of the contest was from the penalty spot after Joseph was upended just inside the area. Bowers stepped up and cooly slotted it away and the game fizzled out as Chingford ran out 3-1 winners. A victory for Athletic was well deserved with some great football being played in the first half. However, there is still room for improvement after viewing the second half performance.

Chingford face their toughest friendly to date with a match against Olympian side Faces FC. Despite being a few leagues lower, Chingford began the game brightly and caused the Faces backline problems from the first whistle and could have easily taken the lead but couldn't convert any of their early chances. The Chingford defence were withstanding the odd attack from the home side and James Morley in the Chingford goal was a spectator for most of the first half. Athletic got their deserved lead after 30 minutes when Kierans did well to steal the ball from a Faces defender, squared for Rowlatt, who shifted the ball onto Connor and he smashed the ball home from 8 yards out. Athletic saw out the first half but just ten minutes into the second half the scores were level when a long ball caught the Athletic defence nappng. Possession was a lot more even in the second half with Faces being assisted by the strong wind as well. Chingford managed to regain the lead on the hour mark as O'Donovan put a home defender under pressure and forced an own goal. An unfortunate own goal at the other end brought the scores level again with 20 minutes remaining as Faces began to exert plenty of pressure on the Chingford goal and they made the pressure count minutes later with a fine 20 yard free-kick which Morley had no chance with. The game was made safe soon after with a smart finish as Chingford began to tire and lose shape chasing the game. The game finished 4-2 to the home side but Athletic certainly have plenty of positives to take from the game after more than matching their opposition for 70 minutes of the game.

        Athletic fielded a strong side for the friendly against fellow Ilford & District side AAH Romford this week as their pre-season preparations continued. Those that took to the field for Chingford performed very well for the first 45 minutes as they stormed into a 6-0 lead by half time. Goals flowed pretty much from the first whistle with Bradley O'Donovan and Chris Rowlatt showing signs of a promising forward pairing and both getting on the scoresheet within the first 20 minutes. Chingford continued to dominate possession and kept the ball with confidence all over the pitch. Vee Abilio, Craig Joseph and Jody also all got on the scoresheet, as well as O'Donovan grabbing his second, to make the lead six at the break. Following words from their manager at the break, Romford charged at Athletic in the second half and didn't allow them time to play and earned a consolation goal with a long throw into the box creating confusion and a simple tap-in for their striker. However, Athletic's six-goal lead was restored ten minutes later with Rowlatt bagging his second of the contest as the game fizzled out to it's end. Overall it was a very pleasing and promising display from all in the blue shirt of Chingford and the other members of the squad will be working hard to replicate this performance next week.

      Athletic continued their pre-season with a confidence boosting victory over Cavendish at Larkswood Park. Chingford continued to blood new players into the team which showed from the outset as they struggled to find any rhythm in their play. However, they soon stamped their authority onto the match as they took the lead thanks to a cool finish from striker Chris Rowlatt. The first half saw the home side create chance after chance and with Rowlatt adding to his goal tally and Jim Reeves also getting on the scoresheet, Athletic raced into a five goal lead by half time. The second half saw a few more changes to both sides which resulted in the game turning a bit scrappy and Cavendish were allowed to get a goal back with a deflected shot which looped over home keeper James Morely to leave him stranded. Athletic almost immediately restored their five goal lead as Rowlatt turned provider and Jim Reeves doubled his goal tally with a smart lofted finish over the on-rushing keeper. Overall it was a comfortable victory but a good work out and valuable match practice for all involved.

Click on the link to read a pervious match report

Chingford Athletic 5-2 London & Essex (Friendly) 2008/09                                                                                                  Chingford Athletic 1-2 Walthamstow Parish (Friendly) 2008/09                                                                Chingford Athletic 4-2 Castle United Res (Friendly) 2008/09                                                                      Ryan FC 8-a-side Pre season Tournament 2008/09                                                                                                                    Chingford Athletic 3-2 Ryan FC (Friendly)  2007/08