Horncastle Town Football Club Previous Reports 2010/2011

Lincoln United Reserves 2 Horncastle Town 1 

Challenge Cup Final

Sincil Bank

30-04-2011

By Paul Johnson

Despite a spirited effort at Lincoln City's Sincil Bank, Town were unable to lift the Challenge Cup as they succumbed to a goal midway through the second half. An Ollie Johnson penalty had given Town an early lead but they were unable to hang on and although they dominated possession in the second half were unable to make the vital break through.

Manager Paul Johnson had a full squad of players at his disposal but recent hamstring injuries to Matty Low and Craig Gordon meant a starting place for the former with Craig hoping to make an impact off the bench. Keeper Lewis Burchnall was protected by a back four of Steve Brown, Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby and skipper Chris Johnson and they all did well with Alec having a fine game at the heart of the defence. Tommy Chalk and Michael Harness were asked to provide width outside of Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson with Matty Low partnering top scorer Tony Edwards up front.

The game started scrappily with both sides looking nervous but when Michael Harness found space down the right his low cross just failed to find Tony Edwards. Town were not to be denied for long and took the lead on fifteen minutes. Tony Edwards looked to be running clear on goal when he was brought down from behind but the referee deemed a yellow card to be sufficient punishment. However, from the resulting free-kick Town were awarded a penalty when Chris Johnson had his shirt pulled when attempting to meet Ollie Johnson's cross. Ollie kept his nerve to score his thirteenth goal of the season and give Town the lead.

Lincoln United were putting a lot of balls forward but Town's defence held firm. Keeper Lewis Burchnall gathered in a well struck shot from a free-kick as the opposition pressed but it was Town who came closest to adding a second when Michael Harness and Matty Low combined well but Michael was unable to get in a shot. Tommy Chalk was finding space wide and he put a couple of decent crosses into the box but Town were finding it difficult to find any real rhythm.

Lincoln United threatened again when their striker lifted the ball over Lewis Burchnall but the ball drifted wide. A quickly taken free-kick then caught Town out down their right but the ensuing cross was fired just over the bar. However, Town were defending resiliently and as half-time approached they seemed certain to take an advantage into the break but Lincoln United equalised on the stroke of half-time after an unfortunate injury to Town's Steve Brown. Steve suffered a clash of heads when challenging for a ball in the air and suffered a serious head injury which necessitated a change of personnel with Dave Marshall coming on at right back. Town had barely had time to regroup when a long ball forward caused confusion at the back. Lewis Burchnall came rushing off his line to clear but his attempted clearance hit Gareth Melia and looped into the penalty area before being bundled in at the far post.

Despite this setback, Town started the second half well having reverted to a 4-5-1 formation with Tommy Chalk tucking infield and Matty Low operating down the left. They were certainly able to get on the ball more in midfield and forced a couple of early corners. From the second of these Gareth Melia headed Richard Jackson's cross just wide. Dave Marshall was finding a lot of space wide on the right as Town looked to get forward but despite their possession they were unable to break down a determined Lincoln United defence.

With fifteen minutes of the second half played, Lincoln United took the lead when a long throw was flicked on twice before being headed past Lewis Burchnall at the far post. This goal came against the run of play and Town did their best to respond with Tommy Chalk firing just wide from distance. Michael Harness then fired across goal after Ollie Johnson had won the ball just outside the area. Craig Gordon replaced Matty Low as Town looked to force their way back into the game and he fired over from long range after dropping deep to collect the ball.

Lincoln United were always a threat on the break but with Chris Johnson and Alec Enderby defending well they were restricted to few clear opportunities. A low shot from outside the area tested Lewis Burchnall but he reacted well to push the ball away. Town thought they had equalised when Chris Johnson fired the ball into the net after Tony Edwards had challenged for Dave Marshall's cross but he was adjudged to have fouled the keeper. Carl Smith replaced Tommy Chalk for the final minutes and when Chris Johnson fired a long ball over to the left Carl looked to have a free run on goal but the referee pulled the game back for a foul on Chris much to Town's frustration.

They battled on gamely until the end but were unable to make the break through and it was Lincoln United who stepped forward to collect the Challenge Cup. Man of the Match was awarded to Town's Richard Jackson which was some consolation but Town will know that they weren't able to reproduce their football of recent weeks and despite enjoying a lot of possession were unable to create enough clear opportunities throughout the ninety minutes.

The support from the crowd was fantastic on the day and the players got a tremendous reception at the end of the game which was much appreciated. Despite the result I'm sure that everyone connected with the club had a good day and hopefully this will be the springboard to further success.

Town side: Lewis Burchnall, Steve Brown (Dave Marshall), Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Matty Low (Craig Gordon), Tommy Chalk (Carl Smith). Subs: Ben Johnson, Andy Money

Lincolnshire League Final Table

2010/2011

Humbertherm 3 Horncastle Town 9 Lincolnshire League

25-04-2011

By Paul Johnson  

Town ended their league campaign in spectacular fashion with a resounding victory against a decent looking Humbertherm side. However, the home side could not handle Town's movement in the final third and goals came at regular intervals throughout the ninety minutes.

Craig Gordon, Matty Low, Lewis Burchnall and Steve Brown were all unavailable due to injury and Manager Paul Johnson will be hoping that they have recovered in time for Saturday's Challenge Cup Final at Sincil Bank. Nevertheless, it was still a useful looking Town side that took to the pitch and with Tony Edwards and Michael Harness in fine form up front, Town soon gained the ascendancy. Richard Jackson and Ollie Johnson were being allowed far too much space in the centre of midfield and they were able to pick out passes at will as Town pushed forward at every opportunity. They duly took the lead after ten minutes when a Michael Harness shot was spilled by the keeper and although Tony Edwards follow-up effort was blocked, Carl Smith reacted quickly to fire the ball across the keeper into the far corner.

Town should have extended their lead almost immediately when Tony Edwards turned superbly before crossing to Michael Harness who put the ball over with the goal gaping. Town continued to press and Michael was again unlucky when his low came hit the outside of the post. It seemed that Town were destined not to get a second goal despite their dominance as both Ollie Johnson and Tony Edwards hit the woodwork but they finally got their just reward on the half hour when Chris Johnson hammered the ball into the roof of the net after Gareth Mela had headed the ball back across goal.

Little was seen of Humbertherm as an attacking threat in the first half but they did reduce the arrears almost immediately after Ollie Johnson's misplaced header fell to their striker and he fired the ball past Andy Money in Town's goal. Any hopes Humbertherm had of getting back into the game were quickly dashed as Town added two more goals before the break. Firstly, Tommy Chalk played in Michael Harness down the left and his pinpoint cross was headed in at the far post by Tony Edwards. Moments later, another fine Town move instigated by Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson ended with Tony Edwards turning his marker before firing into the corner to give Town a commanding lead at the interval.

Town could have been forgiven for slacking off at the start of the second half but they continued to press and Tony Edwards thought he had completed his hat-trick when he turned in a Michael Harness cross but he was adjudged to be offside. However, his third goal soon arrived when he raced clear onto a Carl Smith pass before rounding the keeper and rolling the ball into the empty net. Minutes later Tony added his fourth and Town's sixth when he ran onto a fine ball from Chris Johnson before lifting the ball over the Humbertherm keeper.

Youngster Kieran Hotchin replaced Tommy Chalk and he made an immediate impact as he slid in to convert from close range after superb work from Michael Harness. Town seemed able to create chances at will and when Alec Enderby was pushed over in the box, Ollie Johnson stepped forward to convert the penalty for his twelfth goal of the season. Ben Johnson and Jack Marshall had both been introduced as Town used their full quota of players but it was Humbertherm who threatened to reduce the deficit after Andy Money was harshly adjudged to have fould their striker as he cleared the ball. However, Andy more than made amends with a superb diving save.

Town were now seeing out time and Humbertherm pulled a goal back when Town failed to deal with a short corner and a low cross was turned in from short range. There was still time for Town to add a ninth goal when Tony Edwards ran forward onto Carl Smith's quickly taken throw before firing into the far corner for his fifth goal of the game. Humbertherm added a consolation goal just before the end but they were a well beaten side on the day as Town turned in one of their best performances of the season.

Town side: Andy Money, Dave Marshall, Gareth Melia (Ben Johnson), Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Carl Smith, Richard Jackson (Jack Marshall), Tony Edwards, Michael Harness, Tommy Chalk (Kieran Hotchin).

Heckington 0 Horncastle Town 2 Lincolnshire League

23-04-2011

By Paul Johnson  

A second successive clean sheet proved the foundation for another solid Town performance with a goal either side of half-time from top scorer Tony Edwards securing a valuable three points which lifts Town above their hosts in the table. In truth, the victory was well merited as Town were the dominant side throughout and they could easily have added to their two goals as Heckington pushed forward in the second half.

Town began brightly and Tony Edwards gave an early indication of his intent with a header from a Carl Smith cross that was well held by the home keeper. Kieran Hotchin on his full debut then tested the keeper after he was played in by Tommy Chalk and Tommy himself headed wide following another good cross from Carl Smith who played well throughout. Town continued to dominate although they did survive an early scare when Steve Brown missed his clearance but he did well to get back and make it difficult for the Heckington striker who put the ball over. In fairness to Steve this was virtually his only mistake as he kept top scorer Michael Musson very quiet throughout the game.

Town were enjoying the majority of possession with Richard Jackson and Ollie Johnson seeing a lot of the ball but it was Michael Harness who was posing the greatest threat to the home side and with ten minutes of the first half remaining he was instrumental in Town's opening goal. Having received the ball wide on the right Michael drifted inside before playing a clever ball into Tony Edwards who took his time before firing a fierce shot beyond keeper Neil Terry in the Heckington goal.

Town's keeper Lewis Burchnall was rarely tested in the first half but he did pull off an excellent save from a quickly taken free-kick to deny Andrew Collins. Heckington changed to a 3-4-3 system at the start of the second half and this almost paid dividends as they had two great chances to equalise inside the first five minutes of the half. Firstly a low shot was fired just wide of the far post after Chris Johnson failed to get any distance on his clearance and moments later Lewis Burchnall was left exposed but again, the shot was dragged wide of the far post. Heckington were to rue those misses moments later when Town added a second goal. Tommy Chalk switched the play to Michael Harness who cut in towards goal before drawing the keeper and unselfishly squaring the ball for Tony Edwards to sidefoot into the unguarded net.

Town were now in control of proceedings and Michael Harness almost got the goal he deserved but his fierce drive hit the post with the keeper beaten. Town were soon to be thwarted by the woodwork again when Carl Smith's cross was met by a diving Gareth Melia but his header struck the bar. Town substitutes Matt Simmons and Ben Johnson replaced Tommy Chalk and Kieran Hotchin as Town looked to see out the game and both did well having come on. Ben almost added a third when he seemed certain to reach Richard Jackson's far post cross but the ball eluded him and the chance went begging.

Heckington continued to search for a goal to give them some hope and keeper Lewis Burchnall pulled off an excellent double save to deny them with fifteen minutes remaining. However, it was Town who always looked the more likely scorers and Tony Edwards just failed to complete his hat-trick when Neil Terry tipped his lob just over the bar. Tony then broke clear down the right and beat the keeper to the ball but despite Town protestations that the foul was inside the area the assistant indicated it was a free-kick just outside the area. Ollie Johnson then combined well with Richard Jackson who broke clear before lifting the ball over the keeper but he was adjudged to be offside and the goal was denied.

There was still time for Lewis Burchnall to pull off another good save at the end of the game to ensure Town kept their two goal advantage and secured all three points. Whilst Town were not at their very best, there were a lot of positives for Manager Paul Johnson to take from the game. The back four was solid throughout with Chris Johnson and Steve Brown in commanding form at the heart. Carl Smith had another good game and Tony Edwards reached twenty goals for the season which is an excellent return. Debutant Kieran Hotchin did well at senior level and Michael Harness proved a threat throughout down Town's right. The only concern will be the injury to Craig Gordon which kept him out of the game and he will hope to be fit for next Saturday's cup final at Sincil Bank.

Town's final league game is on Easter Monday at Humbertherm but Manager Paul Johnson will probably elect to rest some of his players in readiness for next Saturday. Kick-off at Humbertherm is at 3.00pm.

Town side;

Lewis Burchnall, Carl Smith, Gareth Melia, Steve Brown, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Kieran Hothcin (Matt Simmons), Tommy Chalk (Ben Johnson).

Lincolnshire League

19-04-2011

Rustons 0 Horncastle Town 3 Lincolnshire League

19-04-2011

By Paul Johnson

Town bounced back from their disappointment at Swineshead on Saturday. The result was rarely in doubt once Ollie Johnson had fired Town in front midway through the first half and a brace of goals from Craig Gordon either side of the break brought Town a deserved victory.

Town started positively with both Tommy Chalk and Michael Harness seeing a lot of the ball in wide areas and when Michael delivered a fine ball into the box Tony Edwards headed just wide. Tony and Craig Gordon were a threat to the home defence throughout and Craig just failed to lift a through ball beyond the advancing keeper. Tommy Chalk's low cross caused confusion in the Rustons back four as Town continued to press and midway through the half they made the breakthrough. Carl Smith played a fine ball forward into Tony Edwards and his lay off was hammered into the roof of the net from twenty yards by Ollie Johnson.

Ollie almost added a second minutes later with another fierce drive but the ball just cleared the crossbar. Rustons front two were proving a handful but Steve Brown and Chris Johnson were in commanding form with Carl Smith and Gareth Melia looking solid at full-back. However, Town did survive a scare when a far post header was pushed onto the post by keeper Andy Money. This save proved crucial as just before half-time Craig Gordon added a neat second goal after good approach play from Richard Jackson and Michael Harness.

Town continued to dominate proceedings after the interval and Michael Harness saw his effort saved at the near post. Ollie Johnson tested the keeper again from distance before Town made the game safe after fifteen minutes of the second half. Michael Harness played the ball back to Carl Smith who's cross was headed back across goal by Tony Edwards for Craig Gordon to finish superbly on the volley.

Manager Paul Johnson took the opportunity to introduce all three substitutes with Ben Johnson, Kieran Hotchin and Matt Simmons replacing Craig Gordon, Richard Jackson and Carl Smith. Kieran almost made an immediate impact when his clever flick released Tony Edwards but the keeper reacted well. A Matt Simmons corner was then met by the head of Chris Johnson but the keeper again reacted well to save the ball on the line. However, in the ensuing melee Tony Edwards was shown a red card following an altercation with a Rustons defender who was also dismissed.

This was the only sour note of the evening and Town will have been pleased to consolidate their position in the table with three valuable points. All of the players contributed on the night and the performance of the young players who went on offered a lot of encouragement for the future.

This coming Saturday Town face a tough test when they travel to play Heckington Utd who are only just below Town in the table - kick-off 3pm.

Town side:

Andy Money, Carl Smith (Ben Johnson), Gareth Melia, Steve Brown, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson (Matt Simmons), Tony Edwards, Craig Gordon (Kieran Hotchin), Tommy Chalk  

Swineshead 5 Horncastle Town 3 Lincolnshire League

16-04-2011

By Paul Johnson

A glorious afternoon, three goals to the good with twenty-five minutes remaining and no hint of what was to follow. The concession of five goals in the final quarter of the game had players shaking their heads in disbelief and a Manager apoplectic with rage - thank God that City beat United later in the day.

Quite how Town conspired to lose this game from a seemingly unassailable position was a complete mystery to Town and their supporters. When Matty Low added to first half goals from Tony Edwards and Craig Gordon looked to have ended the game as a contest but when Swineshead pulled a goal back midway through the second half Town completely capitulated and looked a mere shadow of the side that had performed so well for an hour.

Town started the game well with Tommy Chalk and Matty Low prominent down the left. Craig Gordon and Tony Edwards were frustrated in the early stages as they were caught offside by Swineshead defence that played high up the pitch but once Town started to play the ball forward a little earlier they began to create chances.

Tony Edwards thought he had given Town the lead when he bravely headed in Tommy Chalk's cross at the far post but he was adjudged to be offside. However, Town were not to be denied and when Tommy played a great ball into Craig Gordon he volleyed the ball over the Swineshead keeper for a fine goal. Town's defence was rarely threatened in the opening period with keeper Liam Smith looking in confident mood and when Matty Low worked hard at full-back to win the ball back he squared the ball to Alec Endeby who played a great ball forward into the path of Tony Edwards who finished superbly to double Town's advantage. Craig Gordon almost added a third after good work from Matty Low and Michael Harness and when the whistle blew for half-time Swineshead would have been relieved to be heading to the sanctuary of the dressing room.

Town struggled to pick up the pace at the beginning of the second half but when Matty Low picked up a loose ball in the centre of midfield he advanced between two defenders before calmly firing the ball beyond the keeper into the far corner. Unfortunately, this was to be Matty's last action of the game as he suffered a recurrence of his hamstring injury just before scoring. Carl Smith took his place on the left with Tommy Chalk reverting to full-back and Town continued to look comfortable until midway through the half. However, they were not playing with the same pace or fluency as in the first half and the introduction of Swineshead's substitute certainly improved things for the home side.

Town thought they had added a fourth goal when Michael Harness fired the ball in off the near post after Gareth Melia had headed the ball back across goal but assistant Rob Bee had already raised his flag against Tony Edwards. Rob was honest enough to acknowledge that he had flagged too early but with less than twenty five minutes remaining it seemed of no consequence. However, when Alec Enderby was adjudged to have brought down their substitute inside the box, the resulting penalty was confidently despatched into the bottom corner.

Despite conceding a goal, Town should still have been good enough to shut up shop and see the game out but they appeared to have lost all momentum and when Swineshead's sub lashed the ball beyond Liam Smith with just over ten minutes remaining Town were suddenly under pressure. The situation was made worse minutes later when Town failed to clear a corner and the loose ball was fired into the net to bring the teams level.

All the momentum was now with the home side as Town struggled to get any meaningful possession but the award of a second penalty for the home side mystified everyone except the referee. Despite Town's protests the subsequent penalty kick was again despatched with confidence to give Swineshead the lead with less than five minutes to go.

Town then seemed to find a response and when Michael Harness broke through the middle he seemed certain to score after rounding the keeper but somehow he fired wide with the goal gaping. Moments later Alec Enderby played another great ball over the top for Tony Edwards but this time the ball drifted wide after Tony had lifted it over the advancing keeper.

Toiwn's frustrations were compounded when keeper Liam Smith spilled a through ball in the final moments and their striker was left with a simple finish. It was a dejected group of Town players who left the pitch seconds later because they knew that three points had been needlessly squandered after they had played so well for an hour. Hopefully this will provide the motivation they need to get a positive result at Rustons this coming Tuesday - kick-off 6.45pm.

Town side:

Liam Smith, Steve Brown, Matty Low (Carl Smith), Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Gareth Melia, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Craig Gordon, Tommy Chalk. Subs: Dave Marshall, Ben Johnson.

Horncastle Town 8 Louth Town Res 0 Lincolnshire League

09-04-2011

By Paul Johnson

This was a comprehensive victory for Town who scored eight goals at home for the second time this season. The Louth side bore no resemblance to the one that defeated Town at Park Avenue less than three weeks ago and recent changes within the club meant that they fielded an unfamiliar line-up. However, the margin of victory was possibly a little harsh on the visitors who competed well throughout but Town played some decent football, particularly in the first half, and the result of the game was never really in doubt.

Town started brightly and were playing some neat football on a difficult surface. Richard Jackson and Ollie Johnson were seeing a lot of the ball in midfield as Town dominated the opening exchanges and it was no surprise when they took the lead on twenty minutes. Michael Harness did well down the left and when he played the ball into Tommy Chalk he turned cleverly before being brought down for a penalty that was duly converted by Ollie Johnson. Town quickly consolidated their position when Ollie's free-kick caused confusion in the Louth penalty area and Tony Edwards reacted quickly to head beyond the keeper.

Town continued to press with Carl Smith and Tommy Chalk getting down the flanks at every opportunity but a combination of good goalkeeping and poor finishing kept the scoreline the same. Richard Jackson, Gareth Melia and Michael Harness all had opportunities to extend Town's lead before they did add a third goal before the interval. Michael Harness again did well to find Tony Edwards and when he was bundled over in the box, Ollie Johnson stepped up to score his second and Town's third in a convincing first half showing.

Any hopes Louth may have had of getting back into the game were dashed when Tony Edwards capitalised on a weak back-pass to score his seventeenth goal of the season from a narrow angle. He almost completed his hat-trick moments later when he controlled a long clearance from keeper Luke Robinson superbly but his lobbed volley was just held by the keeper. Manager Paul Johnson then took the opportunity to rest some of his players with Chris Johnson, Richard Jackson and Tony Edwards making way for Steve Brown, Matty Low and Craig Gordon who were all returning from injury.

Town continued to push forward and their defence was rarely troubled but keeper Luke Robinson was tested by a free-kick from just outside the area. Town duly added a fifth goal when Tommy Chalk and Craig Gordon combined to release Matty Low who ran clear before sliding the ball beyond the Louth keeper. A sixth goal soon followed when Carl Smith drove the ball unerringly into the far corner after his first effort had been blocked. With less than five minutes remaining there was still time for Craig Gordon to score a brace of goals with two clinical finishes after he found himself clear with just the keeper to beat.

This was a very satisfying way for Town to end their league campaign at home but they still have a further four away fixtures to complete over the next fortnight beginning with a trip to Swineshead this coming Saturday - kick-off 3pm.

Town side:

Luke Robinson, Dave Marshall, Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson (Steve Brown), Ollie Johnson, Carl Smith, Richard Jackson (Matty Low), Tony Edwards (Craig Gordon), Michael Harness, Tommy Chalk. 

Skegness Town 2 Horncastle Town 4 Lincolnshire League

02-04-2011

By Paul Johnson

This game was far from being a classic but Town did more than enough to take all three points against a strangely lacklustre Skegness side. Despite going a goal behind midway through the first half, Town rallied well either side of half-time and goals from Michael Harness, Tony Edwards, Richard Jackson and an own goal proved decisive.

Town had early chances to take the lead through Tony Edwards and Michael Harness but both failed to hit the target when well placed. Skegness then spurned two great opportunities following defensive mix-ups but poor finishing and an outstanding clearance from Gareth Melia kept the scoresheet blank. However, the hosts took the lead on twenty five minutes when a well struck shot rom outside the box beat debutant Luke Robinson in the Town goal.

This seemed to galvanise Town who went on to dominate the remainder of the half and they got their rewards when Carl Smith played in Michael Harness who finished well with a well struck shot into the far corner. Town continued to dominate after the break and when Richard Jackson and Tommy Chalk worked a short corner, Richard's pinpoint cross was headed in at the far post by Tony Edwards. Two goals quickly became three when Tony Edwards caused confusion in the Town defence and Richard Jackson sidefooted the ball just inside the far post.

Town were now dominating proceedings with Skegness offering little in attack. When they did get forward Chris Johnson and Alec Enderby were very solid with Chris having a fine game. Keeper Luke Robinson did well to save low to his left as Skegness looked to get back into the game and they should have reduced the arrears when a cross was headed wide from close range. Town took full advantage to add a fourth goal moments later following their best move of the game. Good football down the left resulted in Gareth Melia playing a clever one-two before driving in a low cross that was turned into the net by a Skegness defender.

Manager Paul Johnson introduced all three substitutes with the game all but won and they all did well with youngster Harry Hinkley making his first team debut after some good performances for the reserves. Skegness did pull a goal back when Town were outnumbered down the left but they never really looked like getting back into the game as Town saw out the final minutes comfortably to record a deserved win.

This coming Saturday Town play their final home game against Louth Town Reserves on The Wong. Kick-off 3pm.

Town side:

Luke Robinson, Dave Marshall (Harry Hinkley), Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson (Tom Phillips), Carl Smith (Dave Anderson), Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Michael Harness, Tommy Chalk.  

Boston United Res 0 Horncastle Town 1 Challenge Cup Semi-final

26-03-2011

By Paul Johnson

Town progressed through to the Challenge Cup Final on 30th April courtesy of a Gareth Melia goal in extra-time. This was no more than Town deserved following a spirited performance and they could perhaps have won by a greater margin if they had taken the late chances that came their way as the ten-man Boston team pushed forward in search of an equaliser.

The absence of Matty Low, Andrew Cotton and Craig Gordon through injury plus the unavailability of Ollie Kisby was a blow prior to kick-off but Tommy Chalk made a welcome return on the left following a three-week absence. Steve Brown, Chris Johnson and Alec Enderby were all nursing injuries but were able to start and they performed admirably in the back four with Alec outstanding on the day.

Town started confidently and were seeing a lot of the ball with Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson prominent in midfield. Carl Smith and Tommy Chalk were working hard in the wide areas to get forward at every opportunity but clear scoring chances were at a premium at either end. Both defences were looking solid but it was Town who began to create opportunities towards the end of the half. Richard Jackson played in Tony Edwards who lifted the ball over the keeper but the ball was cleared away from the goal line. A Jackson corner was then met at the near post by Ollie Johnson and his shot appeared to hit the defenders arm on the post but appeals for a penalty were waved away. Carl Smith's cross field pass almost found Michael Harness but the keeper came off his line quickly to head clear as Town continued to press.

With two minutes of the half remaining the home side were reduced to ten men when Tony Edwards was brought down just outside the area as he ran clear on goal but the ensuing free-kick was driven into the defensive wall by Chris Johnson.

Town started the second half brightly as they looked to take advantage of the extra man and both Michael Harness as Tony Edwards had chances in the opening minutes. However, it was the home side who went on to dominate after that and Town were indebted to keeper Lewis Burchnall for two superb saves. Firstly he got across his goal superbly to tip a free-kick over the bar and minutes later he again reacted well to push a stinging drive over the bar. The home side continued to press but Town's back four defended resiliently. Dave Marshall replaced the injured Steve Brown on the hour and Will Carter was introduced in place of the tiring Tommy Chalk and towards the end of the half Town began to get on the ball again with Richard Jackson outstanding in the midfield. His late effort almost squirmed in at the near post but with deadlock on ninety minutes the game went into an extra thirty minutes.

Town had the momentum going into extra-time and they soon got their just rewards despite missing a penalty midway through the first period. Tony Edwards was brought down by the keeper as he burst into the penalty area but the keeper made amends with a fine diving save to deny Ollie Johnson. However, the home sides reprieve was short-lived because when Michael Harness was fouled down the right, Ollie johnson's far post cross fell to Gareth Melia and he hit a superb volley into the top corner to give Town a deserved lead.

Boston had made all their substitutions to try and get back into the game but it was Town who looked more likely to add to their lead with both Will Carter and Ollie Johnson seeing goal bound efforts blocked. As the game drew to a close Boston pushed forward at every opportunity and when Alec Enderby got turned just outside the area the resulting chance was volleyed just wide of the near post with keeper Lewis Burchnall a spectator. Nevertheless, it would have been harsh on Town if they had not hung on because this was a superb team effort with everyone of Town's players performing well. The back four were solid throughout with Alec Enderby and Chris Johnson competing for every ball. When the defensive line was broken Lewis Burchnall responded superbly and his vital saves midway through the second half provided Town with the platform to go on and win the game. The midfield worked tirelessly with Richard Jackson outstanding and with Tony Edwards working incredibly hard up front alongside Michael Harness and Will Carter Town were well worth their victory.

Their opponents at Sincil Bank on 30th April will be Lincoln Utd Reserves who are something of a bogey side for Town but prior to the final there are still a number of league games to be played starting with this coming Saturdays trip to Skegness Town - kick-off 3pm.

Town side:

Lewis Burchnall, Steve Brown (Dave Marshall), Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Carl Smith, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Michael Harness, Tommy Chal (Will Carter). Sub: Ben Johnson

Louth Town Res 3 Horncastle Town 0 Lincolnshire League

23-03-2011

By Paul Johnson

Despite competing well for an hour, Town's injury problems again conspired against them with Craig Gordon the latest casualty in his first game back for six weeks. Chris Johnson and Matty Low both suffered a recurrence of their recent injuries as Town limped through the final third of the game.

The home side started brightly and fired wide on a couple of occasions before Town really settled to their task but for the majority of the first half Town played some decent football and were enjoying their fair share of possession. Richard Jackson and Ollie Johnson were competing well in midfield and with Gareth Melia getting forward at every opportunity they began to ask questions of the home defence.

Craig Gordon's dipping volley dropped just over after good work from Tony Edwards and he almost profited from Carl Smith's low cross midway through the half. Ollie Johnson's first time effort from a Richard Jackson corner flashed just wide and Tony Edwards was unlucky from long range after spotting the keeper off his line.

Town were defending well with Alec Enderby in commanding form alongside Chris Johnson at the heart of the defence but Town were dealt a double blow in the final minutes of the half. Firstly, Craig Gordon was injured in a collision with the keeper after challenging for a Michael Harness cross and then with five minutes of the half remaining Town conceded the opening goal. Poor defensive work at a corner enabled the Louth player to run across the penalty area before being fouled by Ollie Johnson's poor challenge. The resulting spot kick gave keeper Andy Money no chance.

Ollie Kisby replaced the unlucky Craig Gordon at half-time with Town forced to revert to a 4-5-1 formation but they started the half well and when Tony Edwards was fouled outside the area, Ollie Johnson chose to pass instead of going for goal. Great work from Carl Smith then saw him ghost past two defenders before firing in a low cross that was turned just wide by the defender at the near post.

The second goal of the game was always going to prove pivotal and Louth doubled their advantage when Alec Enderby was dispossessed in midfield and Louth's striker chested the ball down outside the area before finishing well. This effectively ended the game as a contest and both Chris Johnson and Michael Harness were withdrawn and replaced by Matty Low and Ben Johnson.

A close range header from a corner brought Louth their third goal but to their credit Town kept battling away and they should have reduced the arrears when Richard Jackson played Tony Edwards through on goal but as he attempted to round the keeper the chance went begging.

The worsening injury situation will be a real concern to Manager Paul Johnson ahead of this Saturday's cup semi-final at Boston Utd with Craig Gordon, Jamie Lamming, Matty Low, Andrew Cotton, Lewis Burchnall and Will Carter all doubtful. Kick off at York Street is 2.30pm.

Town side:

Andy Money, Dave Marshall, Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson (Ben Johnson), Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness (Matty Low), Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Craig Gordon (Ollie Kisby), Carl Smith.

Sleaford Town Res 0 Horncastle Town 4 Lincolnshire League

19-03-2011

By Paul Johnson

Town returned to winning ways with a comprehensive win against bottom of the table Sleaford Town. Whilst Town would have been hoping to secure a much needed three points, the absence of no less than ten regular first team players meant that the result was far from being a foregone conclusion.

Danny Laughton, Ben Johnson and Carl Smith all came in for their first starts of the season as Manager Paul Johnson had to reshuffle the starting line-up but they all did well with Carl Smith having a fine game down Town's left. He was instrumental in most of Town's early attacks with fine delivery from the left and midway through the half he created Town's opening goal. Carl created space cleverly before putting over a fine cross for the incoming Gareth Melia who seemed certain to score until he was pushed off the ball - the resulting penalty kick being despatched unerringly into the corner by top scorer Tony Edwards.

Town dominated possession throughout the first half but survived an early scare when Chris Johnson's back header almost eluded Danny Laughton in Town's goal but he dived to his left to smother the ball. This was probably the hardest save Danny had to make all afternoon but he played confidently throughout.

Tony Edwards headed over after Michael Harness had driven the ball across the area and Carl Smith curled a fine effort against the bar from twenty yards as Town pressed for a second goal. Richard Jackson and Ollie Kisby were controlling midfield as Town pushed forward and they should have doubled their lead right on half-time when Carl Smith again delivered an excellent cross from wide but Tony Edwards headed just wide at the far post.

Both Chris Johnson and Steve Brown were struggling with injuries sustained early in the game and Town knew it was important to get a second goal early in the second half. Tony Edwards saw his shot well saved after good work from Richard Jackson and Gareth Melia fired over from close range after more good work from Carl Smith. It looked as though it could be a frustrating time for Town when Tony Edwards headed straight at the keeper from close range but just before the hour they added the second goal that their play deserved.

Tony Edwards was the provider as he picked out Michael Harness who turned cleverly before wrong footing the keeper with a fine strike from just outside the area. A third followed shortly afterwards and was the pick of the afternoon as Michael Harness clipped a fine ball across to Carl smith who finished superbly for a goal his performance deserved. Town were able to bring on Tom Phillips, Scott Spooner and Matt Simmons in place of Ben Johnson, Chris Johnson and Steve Brown and they continued to dominate proceedings with Sleaford offering little by way of attacking threat.

Town continued to search for more goals and when Michael Harness received the ball outside the area he adjusted his feet before curling the ball into the corner with the outside of his right foot. This brought to an end a very satisfactory afternoon for Town but Manager Paul Johnson will be worried about further injuries that could impact further upon a heavily depleted squad. Town travel to Park Avenue to play Louth Town on Wednesday and will be hoping that some of the absentees will be available to strengthen the squad.

Town side:

Danny Laughton, Ben Johnson (Matt Simmons), Dave Marshall, Steve Brown (Tom Phillips), Chris Johnson (Scott Spooner), Ollie Kisby, Gareth Melia, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Michael Harness, Carl Smith.  

Horncastle Town 1 Swineshead 4 Lincolnshire League

16-03-2011

By Paul Johnson

Town turned in arguably their worst performance of the season against a Swineshead side who had to do very little to win the game. Town were two goals in arrears at the break and despite an improved second half showing they never really looked like getting back into the game.

Manager Paul Johnson had several players unavailable and so opted for a 4-5-1 formation but the system proved relatively ineffective on the night as Swineshead dominated proceedings in the opening twenty minutes. They were sharper in every department and despite having three players in the middle of the park Town struggled to get any meaningful possession. The visitors were asking questions of the Town defence and duly took the lead midway through the half when confusion between Luke Shelbourn and keeper Andy Money presented a simple chance to the away side.

It took an excellent block by Luke Shelbourn to deny Swineshead a second goal as the away side continued to press but Town looked to have got on level terms when a Will Carter header seemed goalbound but the ball was cleared off the line before Tony Edwards could capitalise. This was compounded minutes later when Swineshead added a second goal when a cross was only half cleared and when the ball was returned into the penalty area a deflected effort just eluded Andy Money.

Luke Shelbourn had to be replaced at half-time by Steve Brown who was returning from injury but despite seeing a lot more of the ball in the second period Town struggled to break down a determined Swineshead defence. When Town did get forward with purpose they frequently strayed into offside positions and opportunities went begging. Carl Smith and Ben Johnson replaced Ollie Kisby and Dave Marshall as Town pushed to get back into the game but with ten minutes remaining a cross from the left was headed past a helpless Andy Money from close range.

Town responded almost immediately with the best goal of the game when Michael Harness volleyed the ball across the keeper after good work from Tony Edwards. However, within minutes they conceded a fourth goal when a low shot was fired into the corner to complete a comfortable victory for the away side.

Town can point to the fact that they had several key players out injured but in truth, the performance on the night was very disappointing with no-one really doing themselves justice. The comeback of Steve Brown was a bonus and Carl Smith did well when he went on but otherwise there was little else that was positive on the night.

This coming Saturday Town travel to bottom club Sleaford Res but with nine players unavailable this could be a much more difficult game than would otherwise have been anticipated. Kick-off at Eslaforde Park is at 3pm.

Town side:

Andy Money, Dave Marshall (Ben Johnson), Gareth Melia, Luke Shelbourn (Steve Brown), Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Will Carter, Ollie Kisby (Carl Smith)

Lincoln Utd Res 4 Horncastle Town 4 Lincolnshire League

11-03-2011

By Paul Johnson  

This was a superb effort from Town who looked to be dead and buried after conceding two goals in the opening twenty minutes. However, a tremendous second half showing looked as though it had given Town all three points when Richard Jackson scored with three minutes to go but a late equaliser from the hosts meant that the points were shared.

The home side began strongly and Town were struggling to get a foothold in the game. Lincoln Utd were quicker to the ball in all departments with the movement of their front two causing the Town defence all sorts of problems in the early stages. Only two minutes had been played when a ball over the defence eluded Chris Johnson and despite Lewis Burchnall getting both hands to the ball, the pace of the shot carried the ball over the line. Town were looking very ragged and they were indebted to Town's keeper for keeping them in the game but there was nothing Burchnall could do when a free header from a corner brought Lincoln Utd their second goal with barely twenty minutes played.

The situation should have been worse when the home side broke clear down the right but the resulting cross was somehow turned wide at the far post from less than two yards out. This seemed to galvanise Town and they began to get back into the game. Matty Low was a constant threat down the left and he just failed to reach an Ollie Johnson through ball ahead of the keeper. Matty's cross from the left then found Will Carter but he was unable to get his shot away and when Will headed down another Matty cross moments later Richard Jackson saw his goal bound effort blocked.

Town should have reduced the deficit when a defensive mix up left Will Carter with an open goal to aim at but his under hit shot was cleared off the line at the expense of a corner. Tony Edwards then drove the ball into the side netting after more good work from Matty Low but with five minutes of the half remaining, the same two players combined to even better effect. Gareth Melia played the ball inside the full-back for Matty to run on and deliver the perfect ball to the far post which was met by the head of Tony Edwards and despatched into the top corner of the net.

This was just the boost Town needed and they came out after the break with renewed confidence. They still had to be alert at the back and Lewis Burchnall pulled off another outstanding save but Town were beginning to dominant proceedings with Ollie Kisby and Richard Jackson prominent in midfield. Town had gone close on a couple of occasions before they duly equalised on the hour with another fine goal. Richard Jackson's superb cross field pass released Matty Low and he lifted the ball over the advancing keeper to bring the sides level.

Town had barely had chance to celebrate being level when they went behind again barely two minutes later. A long ball over the defence eluded everyone and as Lewis Burchnall rushed off his line he brought down the Lincoln Utd centre forward with the resulting yellow card and penalty an inevitability. Lewis was unlucky not to keep out the resulting penalty kick but the home side regained the lead with twenty minutes remaining.

The influential Matty Low then had to be replaced by Michael Harness and he made an immediate impact when he ran forward to meet Chris Johnson's cross before heading the ball beyond the keeper into the roof of the net to restore parity again. Town were now in the ascendancy and Will Carter saw his header tipped over by the keeper. The Lincoln Utd front two were being well marshalled by Chris Johnson and Luke Shelbourn although Town did survive a scare when their substitute broke clear but he failed to get his shot away and the ball was cleared.

With time running out Will Carter did well to hold the ball just outside the penalty area and despite being fouled he played the ball to Richard Jackson who fired the ball beyond the keeper to give Town the lead for the first time in the game. Substitute Jamie Lamming had to be replaced by Ben Johnson after a heavy challenge but Town were looking to see out the final moments when the home side were awarded a free-kick just inside their half. A long ball to the far post was headed back across goal and turned in from close range to bring the sides level again with barely a minute left to be played.

A draw was probably a fair result given the home sides dominance in the early stages but Town should take great heart from a superb second half showing that had the noisy travelling contingent on their feet throughout. The only concern for Town was the injuries sustained by Matty Low, Jamie Lamming, Lewis Burchnall and Ollie Johnson which make them all doubtful for this Wednesday's home fixture against Swineshead on The Wong - kick-off 7.45pm.

Town side:

Lewis Burchnall, Dave Marshall (Jamie Lamming (Ben Johnson)), Gareth Melia, Luke Shelbourn, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Tony Edwards, Richard Jackson, Will Carter, Ollie Kisby, Matty Low (Michael Harness).

Horncastle Town 0 Hykeham 2 Lincolnshire League

09-03-2011

By Paul Johnson

This was a disappointing result for Town in a game which lacked any real fluency throughout. Hykeham worked hard to stop Town playing their usual passing game and as a consequence it was a game of few clear scoring opportunities at either end. There was little to choose between the two sides on the night but slack defending from Town just before the break was ultimately to prove their undoing.

Town started brightly and when Tony Edwards worked a short corner, Richard Jackson's far post cross was headed just over by Alec Enderby. Richard then played a great ball inside the fullback for Matty Low but his under hit cross failed to find Tony Edwards in the box. Matty was a constant threat with his pace down the left but Town were finding it difficult to feed both him and Michael Harness in wide areas as Hykeham closed them down at every opportunity.

The visitors almost opened the scoring when the ball broke to their centre forward inside the penalty area but keeper Lewis Burchnall pulled off a fine save with the loose ball being fired over. Town were coping well defensively with Alec Enderby and Gareth Melia having fine games but they were still finding it difficult to break down a resilient Hykeham defence. Will Carter and Tony Edwards combined well but the keeper came off his line to smother and when Matty Low delivered a fine cross from the left Richard Jackson saw his effort blocked. Ollie Johnson then fired wide after good work from Michael Harness and it seemed certain that the teams would go in level at the break but when Town failed to clear a loose ball in the final minute of the half they were severely punished with a well placed shot beyond Burchnall.

The impressive Alec Enderby suffered a recurrence of his hamstring injury and had to be replaced by returning skipper Chris Johnson at the start of the second half but Town made a positive start to the half and should have equalised within five minutes. Tony Edwards played the ball forward to Will Carter whose first touch was excellent but he fired wide of the near post when a goal seemed certain. Town were enjoying their best spell of the game with Richard Jackson and Ollie Johnson seeing more of the ball but chances were still at a premium and Town had to remain alert at the back as Hykeham always posed a threat on the break. Town thought they had drawn level midway through the half when Richard Jackson's corner was volleyed goal wards by Ollie Johnson but the ball came back off the underside of the bar with Gareth Melia's follow up effort being cleared off the line. Gareth then cut inside to fire just wide of the far post as Town pressed and Tony Edwards elected to cross to the far post when a shot on goal would have been a better option.

Luke Shelbourn and Ollie Kisby were both introduced as Town pressed to get on level terms but with two minutes remaining Hykeham killed off their hopes with a second goal. A corner was only half cleared and when it was headed back across the penalty area; Ellis was unmarked and scored his second of the game to secure all three points.

On another night Town could easily have got at least a point from the game but Hykeham worked hard to frustrate them at every opportunity and were deserving winners, even though a two goal margin was tough on Town.

Town side:

Lewis Burchnall, Jamie Lamming (Ollie Kisby), Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby (Chris Johnson), Dave Marshall, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness (Luke Shelbourn), Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Will Carter, Matty Low. Subs: Ben Johnson

Boston United Reserves P Horncastle Town P Challenge Cup Semi-Final

26-02-2011

By Paul Johnson  

Town's visit to Boston Utd in the semi-final of the Challenge Cup was postponed on Saturday owing to the hosts pitch being waterlogged. At the present time the fixture has not been re-arranged.

This coming Saturday, Town were due to travel to Eslaforde Park to play Sleaford Town in a league fixture but this has also had to be postponed until April 23rd because Sleaford First Team have a re-arranged home fixture to fulfil.

Cleethorpes 4 Horncastle Town 3 Lincolnshire League

19-02-2011

By Paul Johnson

Town suffered their first league defeat since mid-November despite leading for long periods but in truth the game should never have gone ahead on a pitch that was an absolute quagmire. Town were again without the suspended Craig Gordon and Chris Johnson along with Matty Low who was working. However, the biggest blow was the lack of a recognised goalkeeper which resulted in Dave Marshall standing in between the sticks.

Alec Enderby made a welcome return alongside Steve Brown at the heart of the defence and despite missing key personnel, Town made a really positive start to the game. Tommy Chalk was prominent throughout the first half and with Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson combining well in midfield the early signs were encouraging. Town took the game to the home side and were far sharper in the opening half hour but they did survive a scare when a defensive mix up allowed their striker a free run on goal but his low shot was saved well by Dave Marshall.

Minutes later Town took a deserved lead when Ollie Johnson's forward ball found Tony Edwards who held off the defender well before firing a great shot beyond the keeper into the far corner. Better was to follow two minutes later when Gareth Melia and Tony Edwards combined to release Tommy Chalk who ran between two defenders before rifling a low shot past the keeper. At this stage Town were well in control but with conditions deteriorating Town found it increasingly difficult to pass the ball and the home side almost reduced the arrears when a fierce shot came back off the underside of the bar before being cleared by Jamie Lamming.

Town were being forced to defend much deeper but were still seeing a lot of the ball but when a pass to Scott Spooner stuck in the mud Cleethorpes took advantage to force a corner and the resulting cross was headed past Dave Marshall with five minutes of the first half remaining. Town continued to look threatening and Tony Edwards shot into the side netting after good work from Ollie Johnson. Then on the stroke of half-time came a crucial decision when Tony Edwards was brought down from behind in the penalty area but to the amazement of Town's players the referee penalised Tommy Chalk for a push prior to the challenge.

This decision seemed even more important when Cleethorpes equalised two minutes into the second half when a low shot just eluded the off-balance Dave Marshall in Town's goal. The momentum was now with the home side but Town responded immediately and when Richard Jackson played the ball through Tony Edwards was caught by the defender as he broke into the penalty area. Despite the protestations of the home side Ollie Johnson stepped up to score his eight goal of the season with an unerring finish.

Alec Enderby had to retire immediately with a recurrence of his hamstring injury which meant Gareth Melia moving to centre half with Ben Johnson coming on down the left. Town continued to work hard but they were unable to retain possession or get forward with any real purpose as Cleethorpes poured forward. Town's hopes of hanging on were dealt a further blow when Michael Harness had to come off with twenty minutes remaining with debutant Ryan Hinson taking his place on the right.

With fifteen minutes remaining Town still had the advantage but when a ball was played forward into the penalty area their striker struck the ball past Dave Marshall to restore parity. With conditions now almost laughable, all the momentum was with the home side and when a ball looped up towards the far post it was scrambled in despite the best efforts of keeper Marshall. Town were unable to really mount a meaningful challenge having gone behind but they almost grabbed an equaliser in the final seconds. The willing Tony Edwards caused confusion amongst the Cleethorpes defence and when the keepers clearance hit the centre half the ball fell to Ben Johnson but he fired wide with virtually the last kick of the game.

Although Town were under pressure for most of the second period they were worth a point given their dominance early in the game. When it was possible to pass the ball, Town played some decent stuff but as the pitch got heavier tired legs took over as Cleethorpes pressed but why the game went ahead under the conditions remains a mystery.

This coming Saturday Town are away against Boston Utd Reserves in the semi-final of the Challenge Cup - kick-off 1.30pm at York Street.

Town side:

Dave Marshall, Jamie Lamming, Scott Spooner, Alec Enderby (Ben Johnson), Steve Brown, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness (Ryan Hinson), Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Tommy Chalk, Gareth Melia.

Horncastle Town 1 Boston United Reserves 0 Lincolnshire League

12-02-2011

By Paul Johnson

Town turned in arguably there best performance of the season to defeat the current league leaders despite being without several key players. Andrew Cotton's injury meant another appearance in goal for Lewis Burchnall and he had an excellent game between the sticks. The usual centre-back pairing of Alec Enderby and Chris Johnson were both absent, as were strikers Craig Gordon and Will Carter but the players on the field showed great character and determination throughout and a fine goal from Tony Edwards on the hour proved to be the defining moment of an absorbing contest on The Wong.

The visitors started brightly and dominated the opening fifteen minutes as Town struggled to get any meaningful possession of the ball but Boston were restricted to few scoring opportunities and Town's 4-5-1 formation proved effective in nullifying any real threat. Keeper Lewis Burchnall did well to save a Nathan Rawdon free-kick low to his right after Jamie Lamming had been penalised but after a shaky start Town began to see more of the ball. Michael Harness and Matty Low provided much needed width and when Matty outstripped the defenders down the left his cross was headed wide by Tony Edwards. Tommy Chalk and Ollie Johnson were unable to get their shots away as Town pressed and Richard Jackson fired an effort just wide of the upright.

Town's makeshift back four of Jamie Lamming, Dave Marshall, Steve Brown and Gareth Melia performed creditably throughout with Dave Marshall outstanding at the heart of the defence. However, they were indebted to keeper Lewis Burchnall who denied Andrew Shinn with his legs as e broke clear down the left.

There were few chances at either end in the opening half and Town will have been satisfied to go into the break on level terms. The midfield trio of Ollie Johnson, Richard Jackson and Tommy Chalk were beginning to see more of the ball and with Matty Low's pace a constant threat they knew that the opportunity was there to take all three points if they could find enough quality in the final third.

The start of the second half was again evenly contested with both defence looking strong but when Pedro Sevilha found himself in space a goal seemed certain but once again Lewis Burchnall came off his line quickly to deny him. Ollie Johnson then saw his free-kick comfortably saved by Ricky Drury as Town pushed forward but the decisive moment came on the hour as Town constructed the best move of the game. Dave Marshall intercepted the ball before playing a great ball inside the full-back for Matty Low. Matty evaded two challenges before cutting the ball back for Tony Edwards to fire into the roof of the net from ten yards out.

Town knew they would have to withstand a lot of pressure in the closing thirty minutes and their cause was not helped when Steve Brown was forced to leave the field with a head injury midway through the half. Gareth Melia dropped in at centre half with Matty Low reverting to fullback and Dave Anderson coming on down the left. But despite this setback Town continued to look solid at the back whilst continuing to look for a second goal. Michael Harness picked out Tony Edwards but his looping header was saved by Ricky Drury in the Boston goal. Ollie Johnson saw his shot blocked and Andrew Shinn did well to get back and deny Michael Harness a scoring opportunity after more good work from Matty Low.

Boston used all three substitutes to try and salvage something from the game but they were reduced to ten men for the final ten minutes after Tom Sargeant was sent off for a second yellow card. The visitors put several balls into Town's penalty area to try and create an opportunity in front of goal and it looked to have paid dividends when a scrambled effort appeared to be drifting just inside the far post but Lewis Burchnall threw himself to his left and somehow managed to deflect the ball away with a quite outstanding save.

The referee played an additional five minutes added time because of the injury to Steve Brown but Town continued to work incredibly hard and the final whistle brought them a well deserved three points. There is little doubt that Boston will go on to win the league as they are a very strong side but Town matched them in every department on the day and got their just rewards for a fine team effort.

This coming Saturday Town face another tough game against in-form Cleethorpes who have been unbeaten for quite some time and are virtually level with Town in the table. Kick-off at Cleethorpes is at 2.00pm.

Town side:

Lewis Burchnall, Jamie Lamming, Gareth Melia, Dave Marshall, Steve Brown (Dave Anderson), Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Tommy Chalk, Matty Low. Sub: Daniel Bodily  

Lincolnshire League

05-02-2011

Plough Skellingthorpe 0 Horncastle Town 3 Lincolnshire League

05-02-2011

Town were frustrated three weeks ago when Plough snatched a late equaliser on The Wong but Town exacted full revenge in the return fixture with a comprehensive victory. Despite a bright start from the home side, two goals in quick succession from Craig Gordon and Tony Edwards put Town firmly in control and the only surprise was that Town did not win by a larger margin after completing dominating the second half.

With Matty Low and Chris Johnson unavailable Gareth Melia and Steve Brown returned to the side with Lewis Burchnall deputising in goal for the absent Lee Edwards. However, it was the home side that started the better and Town were soon on the backfoot. Determined defending from Town's back four frustrated the home side that found it difficult to create any clear scoring opportunities and Town took advantage to open the scoring with their first meaningful attack. Town worked the ball out to Tommy Chalk down the left and although his cross was blocked, the ball fell to Craig Gordon who calmly side footed the ball beyond the keeper into the far corner.

Plough had barely recovered from that setback when Town doubled their lead two minutes later. Another sweeping Town move ended with Michael Harness driving the ball across goal for Tony Edwards to cleverly guide the ball inside the far post. Plough were a threat from set pieces with their aerial advantage but Town coped well with keeper Lewis Burchnall handling confidently. He did well to turn away a well struck free-kick to maintain Town's advantage but in truth it was Town who always looked the more likely side to add further goals and Craig Gordon should have hit the target after good approach play from Tommy Chalk and Michael Harness.

Town had to settle for a two-goal cushion at the break but should have secured all three points early in the second half when Craig Gordon broke clear but his close range effort hit the keeper’s legs. Tony Edwards headed just wide after Michael Harness had headed back across goal. Richard Jackson fired narrowly wide on two occasions before he should have scored Town's third but he delayed and his shot was blocked.

Craig Gordon chipped the ball just over after cutting inside two defenders and he then played a clever one-two with Richard Jackson but when he seemed certain to score the Plough centre half put in a telling challenge. Ben Johnson replaced Dave Marshall as Town looked to consolidate their position but they finally got  third goal with ten minutes remaining. Ollie Johnson's long-range effort was well struck but the keeper should have done better as the shot eluded him to give Ollie his fourth goal in three games. Promising youngster Kieran Hotchin was introduced for the final minutes in place of the hard working Tony Edwards as Town saw the game out comfortably. Lewis Burchnall made a scrambling save early in the half but apart from that he was a virtual spectator as Town's defensive line contained the home sides strikers with Steve Brown and Alec Enderby outstanding. However, they will face a much sterner test this coming Saturday when they entertain the league leaders Boston Utd. Kick-off 3pm on The Wong.

Town side:

Lewis Burchnall, Dave Marshall (Ben Johnson), Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby, Steve Brown, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards (Kieran Hotchin), Craig Gordon, Tommy Chalk

Horncastle Town 3 Cleethorpes 3 Lincolnshire League

29-01-2011

Town will possibly feel that they did enough to have taken all three points following a fine second half showing but a draw was a fair result overall given the away sides dominance in the first half. Manager Paul Johnson will have been delighted by Town's resilience given that they were behind on three occasions but he will have been concerned by their lacklustre start to the game.

The team showed just one change from last week with Tommy Chalk coming in for the injured Gareth Melia. This meant that Matty Low and Tommy were paired down the left and their pace caused the Cleethorpes back four problems all game with Tommy having an excellent game throughout. Despite last weeks performance Town started sluggishly with too many passes going astray. Cleethorpes were far sharper in the opening twenty minutes and it was no surprise when they took a deserved lead inside ten minutes. Town failed to deal with a ball down the right and when it was crossed into the area their centre forward swivelled sharply to fire past a helpless Lee Edwards in Town's goal.

Despite this setback Town were on level terms almost immediately. Richard Jackson's through ball looked to be drifting through to the Cleethorpes keeper but Tony Edwards did well to get to the ball first and a penalty was the only outcome as he was brought down. Ollie Johnson stepped up to score confidently and restore parity but Cleethorpes continued to dominate and regained the initiative on twenty minutes. A poor clearance from Lee Edwards led to a corner which the away side capitalised upon when their centre half was left unmarked to power in a header from six yards out.  

Despite being well below their best Town had a great chance to equalise almost immediately when Alec Enderby played a great ball through for Tony Edwards who ran clear but having rounded the keeper he was crowded out and the chance went begging. However, the reprieve for the visitors was short-lived and when Ollie Johnson's cross was knocked down by Chris Johnson into the path of Craig Gordon he fired unerringly into the bottom corner.

The final fifteen minutes of the half were more even as Town played their way into the game but the half-time whistle still came as something of a relief with Town grateful to be on level terms. However, their performance in the second half was much improved as Town played with far greater purpose and conviction. The back four looked far more confident and when they won possession were played much more intelligent balls forward. Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson were seeing far more of the ball in central areas and as a consequence Michael Harness and Matty Low were getting better service out wide.

Town enjoyed a lot of possession and mounted a series of attacks as they looked to get their noses in front.

Craig Gordon fired wide after good work from Tony Edwards and then saw his header comfortably saved by the keeper. Tony Edwards and Matty Low both got headers on target after good work from Michael Harness as Town continued to press. A Richard Jackson corner fell to Chris Johnson and he fired just over as Town continued to dominate. Matty Low broke clear on the left but his low cross failed to pick out a teammate but with Matty and Tommy Chalk breaking down the left at every opportunity it seemed to be a matter of when, not if Town scored but with fifteen minutes remaining Cleethorpes took the lead for the third time with a fine goal. There was a suspicion of handball in the build up, but when the ball was crossed to the far post it was cushioned into the path of the centre forward who finished emphatically for his second goal of the game.

Town could have been forgiven for becoming despondent having dominated proceedings but with ten minutes to go they levelled again. Dave Marshall advanced from full-back before sliding a great ball into the path of Michael Harness who fired past the keeper at his near post. Town sensed that a win was there for the taking and they piled forward in search of a winner. Ollie Johnson's volley was saved by the keeper and both Richard Jackson and Michael Harness had shots blocked but Town had a great chance to seal all three points in the final moments. Tommy Chalk played a great ball over the top to Craig Gordon who cut inside before finding Tony Edwards but he was unable to hit the target and the chance went begging.

However, it would have been harsh on the visitors if they had not taken something from the game because they really tested Town in the early stages and their front players were a constant threat throughout the game. Town were fortunate to still be in the game at half-time but their football in the second half will have pleased manager Paul Johnson in addition to maintaining their recent unbeaten run in the league.

This coming Saturday Town are away against Plough Skellingthorpe - kick-off 2pm.

Town side:

Lee Edwards, Dave Marshall, Matty Low, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Craig Gordon, Tommy Chalk. Subs: Ben Johnson, Alessandro Agorini  

Horncastle Town 8 Rustons 1 Lincolnshire League

22-01-2011

This was a thoroughly convincing performance from Town who dominated proceedings throughout. Town stamped their authority on the game from the first whistle with Rustons struggling to cope with Town's quick and incisive football. While this would have been a game Town would have hoped to win given Rustons lowly position in the table, the margin of their victory was impressive and will have pleased manager Paul Johnson.

Town started the game brightly with Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson dominating midfield. Michael Harness and Matty Low were always available in wide areas as Town moved the ball quickly and with Tony Edwards and Craig Gordon looking threatening up front Town soon began to test the Rustons keeper.

Richard Jackson and Craig Gordon both saw shots saved and Craig headed wide from a Matty Low cross. Ollie Johnson fired wide after good approach play and Tony Edwards just failed to convert Michael Harness's excellent cross. Rustons were camped in their half for the opening half hour as Town poured forward but they did pose a threat up front and Town were given a warning when a long ball forward caught them out of position but the striker fired wide.

Town continued to press with Craig Gordon again going close but he should have opened the scoring following a fine Town move. Ollie Johnson threaded a great ball wide to Matty Low who outpaced his marker before putting over a low cross to Craig whose effort was blocked from close range. However, just before the half hour Town took a deserved lead when Ollie Johnson cleverly controlled the ball inside the penalty area before volleying the ball into the bottom corner.

This should have been the platform for Town to push on and get more goals but moments later Rustons were level. Dave Marshall appeared to have cleared the danger but when the ball was played forward Town were caught out pushing forward and Rustons centre forward ran clear before rolling the ball wide of keeper Lee Edwards. Despite this setback Town soon regained the initiative and five minutes later Craig Gordon curled a fine shot beyond the keeper after good approach play from Ollie Johnson.

Craig and Michael Harness both went close to increasing Town's lead but the third goal duly arrived right on half-time. Ollie Johnson turned cleverly inside the penalty area before being brought down and he fired the resulting penalty kick past the keeper to give Town a two-goal cushion at the break.

Any hopes Rustons may have harboured of getting back into the game were effectively ended when they were reduced to ten men early in the second half when their midfield player lashed out at Richard Jackson. Within minutes Town had pressed home their advantage when Chris Johnson glanced in a header from Ollie Johnson's free-kick after Matty Low had been fouled. Michael Harness and Tony Edwards both went close as Town looked for more goals and number five duly arrived courtesy of an excellent curling shot from the impressive Gareth Melia.

Town's defence was rarely tested with keeper Lee Edwards a virtual spectator throughout the second half. Steve Brown and Tommy Chalk replaced Dave Marshall and Matty Low on the hour and youngster Alex Agorini came on for Tony Edwards to gain valuable experience at senior level. Town continued to play with real confidence and when Craig Gordon worked a short corner with Richard Jackson goal number six resulted from Richard's thumping shot into the top corner from a narrow angle.

Michael Harness then struck a tremendous volley into the side netting before Craig Gordon fired just wide. Tommy Chalk was giving the full-back a torrid time down the left as Town used the width to good effect and with ten minutes remaining they got a seventh goal. Michael Harness clipped a great ball over the Ruston's defence and although it just eluded Craig Gordon, Alex Agorini reacted smartly to fire the ball under the Rustons keeper for his first senior goal. Craig Gordon duly added his second and Town's eighth after a fine ball from Ollie Johnson and there was still time for Tommy Chalk to hit the post following another flowing Town move.

Whilst there will certainly be sterner tests ahead for Town, this was a really solid performance and much improved from last week. Town were positive throughout and played some good football that proved too much for a Ruston's side who are in the process of re-building following the loss of several senior players.

This coming Saturday Town are at home again when Cleethorpes are the visitors to The Wong. Kick-off 3pm.

Town side: Lee Edwards, Dave Marshall (Steve Brown), Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards (Alex Agorini), Craig Gordon, Matty Low (Tommy Chalk).

Horncastle Town 1 Plough Skellingthorpe 1 Lincolnshire League

15-01-2011

This was a disappointing result for Town who looked to have secured all three points until a last gasp equaliser from the away side earned them a share of the spoils. In truth it was never a classic with the windy conditions proving very difficult but a much improved second half display from Town should have brought them a much needed win.

The first half was instantly forgettable with Town struggling to cope with a strong wind at their backs. Too frequently the ball forward was over hit and passes misplaced and there were few chances at either end. Alec Enderby headed an Ollie Johnson free-kick wide and Tony Edwards failed to hit the target after a Richard Jackson corner was half cleared. Gareth Melia saw a long-range effort go just over and Tony Edwards couldn't quite get on the end of an excellent cross from the impressive Michael Harness.

Town were rarely troubled at the back but keeper Andrew Cotton reacted well to beat out an in swinging corner midway through the half. The second half was much better as Town played with more intelligence into the wind but they had to survive a couple of early scares. Plough's big centre forward turned Alec Enderby before bearing down on goal but Andrew Cotton saved well with his legs. Moments later a long ball forward fell kindly for their right winger but his weak effort was easily saved.

After the opening minutes of the half it was Town who went on to dominate and Michael Harness fired wide after more good work from Gareth Melia. Then on the hour Town took a deserved lead with Michael turning provider. He collected a throw from Andrew Cotton and beat the full-back before running down the right wing and firing in a low cross that was turned in by Craig Gordon.

Town had to defend resiliently with the back four of Dave Marshall, Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby and Chris Johnson looking solid and it was Town who continued to look the more likely scorers. Tony Edwards had a great chance to double Town's lead after being played in by Will Carter but having rounded the keeper he saw his shot blocked on the line. From the resulting corner Tony headed just wide at the near post. Gareth Melia then combined well with Tony Edwards to set up Richard Jackson but his low shot went just wide of the upright.

Ollie Johnson fired a free-kick over after Will Carter had been fouled but despite only being a goal in front Town looked comfortable. However, with ten minutes remaining they were reduced to ten men as Craig Gordon was dismissed for comments directed at the referees assistant. Matty Low replaced Will Carter with Tony Edwards operating as a lone striker and Town looked to have seen things through until the final minute of added time when a low cross fell kindly in the box and was hammered past a helpless Andrew Cotton in Town's goal. With seconds remaining Tony Edwards almost had the chance to restore Town's lead but the Plough keeper came off his line to smother the ball.

Seconds later the whistle signalled the end of a frustrating ninety minutes for Town. The players will have felt they did enough to take all three points but their disappointment was compounded by an injury to keeper Andrew Cotton.

This coming Saturday Town are at home to Rustons whose results have improved recently. Kick-off on The Wong at 3pm.

Town side: Andrew Cotton, Dave Marshall, Gareth Melia, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Will Carter (Matty Low), Craig Gordon, Tony Edwards. Subs: Ben Johnson, Luke Shelbourn, Matt Simmons

Swineshead 1 Horncastle Town 1 (Swineshead win 4-1 on pens) 

County Cup

08-01-2011

Town will feel desperately disappointed to have been knocked out of the County Cup following a determined showing at in-form Swineshead. In a somewhat scrappy game not helped by the referee, Town created the clearer scoring opportunities and will feel that they did enough over the ninety minutes to be deserving of a place in the quarter-final next week.

Despite being without regulars Tommy Chalk, Matty Low, Craig Gordon, Alec Enderby and Ollie Kisby, Town showed real resilience throughout and particularly after being reduced to ten men with barely thirty minutes played when Chris Johnson was adjudged to have attempted to elbow an opponent. Despite this setback Town's ten players acquitted themselves well and created enough chances in the second half to have avoided the need for penalties at the end.

Town began with the wind at their backs and they quickly took the game to the home side. An Ollie Johnson free-kick fell to Michael Harness but he mis-cued the ball wide and minutes later another Johnson Free-kick found Tony Edwards whose low shot came back off the keeper with Tony unable to convert the rebound. In difficult conditions Town were trying to get the ball down and play and Gareth Melia and Michael Harness were both doing well in wide areas. Town suffered their first setback inside twenty minutes when Jamie Lamming had to come off injured. This meant a reshuffle at the back with Dave Marshall switching to left-back and Luke Shelbourn taking his place on the left.

A Richard Jackson corner was fired goal wards by Ollie Johnson but again the keeper saved well as Town continued to press and they finally got their reward after twenty-five minutes. A long clearance from keeper Andrew Cotton eluded the Swineshhead defence and Tony Edwards ran clear before unselfishly squaring the ball to Michael Harness who had a simple finish.

This was no more than Town deserved and they were looking to build on their lead when skipper Chris Johnson received his marching orders for what seemed an innocuous incident off the ball. Town had to reshuffle again with Luke Shelbourn going in alongside Steve Brown at centre half and Gareth Melia dropping to left-back with Will Carter asked to play as a lone striker.

Despite being a man down Town looked to have got to half-time with their lead intact but with seconds of the half remaining a loose ball fell kindly for Houghton who fired a low shot past Andrew Cotton in Town's goal. This was the only attempt on goal that the home side had in the first half and Town could feel very aggrieved to only be on level terms at the break.

The second half was always going to be difficult with Swineshead having a man advantage and the wind behind them but in fairness to Town they battled superbly and continued to create the clearer scoring opportunities. Town's back four was superb with Steve Brown outstanding and Swineshead only had one shot of note which Andrew Cotton smothered well.

Tony Edwards almost restored Town's lead when he cut in from the left but again the keeper saved well with his legs. Michael Harness fired over from distance before he created the best chance of the game on the hour. He did superbly to turn the Swineshead left-back before advancing into the penalty area and crossing for Ollie Johnson whose close range effort was blocked on the line by the keeper.

Town continued to get forward at every opportunity with Will Carter working hard up front on his own but during the final twenty minutes there were no real chances at either end and the game had to be decided by penalties. Swineshead's early advantage was cancelled out by Ollie Johnson but with Swineshead continuing to find the corner of the net, misses from Tony Edwards and Luke Shelbourn proved costly and Town were left to reflect upon what could have been. Nevertheless, the players are fully deserving of praise for their efforts on the day and to more than match the home side throughout despite being at a disadvantage was a creditable achievement.

This coming Saturday Town resume their league program with a home game against Plough FC from Skellingthorpe - kick-off 3pm on The Wong.

Town side: Andrew Cotton, Jamie Lamming (Luke Shelbourn), Dave Marshall, Steve Brown, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Will Carter, Gareth Melia. Subs: Ben Johnson, Matt Simmons

Horncastle Town 1 Louth Town 0 friendly

03-01-2011

Cancelled due to bad weather

News Flash:- Swineshead v Horncastle Town due to be played on 04-12-2010 is called off due to adverse weather conditions

Lincolnshire League

20-11-2010

Horncastle Town 1 Skegness Town 0 Lincolnshire League

20-11-2010

Town bounced back from last weeks disappointment at Boston Utd with a hard earned victory against a strong Skegness side. Both sides deserve credit for providing the sizable crowd with an entertaining game but it was Town who emerged victorious courtesy of a superb second half strike from the impressive Matty Low.

Town began the game positively with both Matty Low and Gareth Melia seeing a lot of the ball in wide areas. Michael Harness and Tony Edwards combined well up front as Town looked to gain the initiative and Michael saw his volleyed effort go just wide. Chris Johnson's well struck free-kick tested the Skegness keeper and Tommy Chalk saw his fierce strike come back off the defensive wall as Town pushed forward. Michael Harness saw another strike go narrowly wide and after good work from Matty Low, Gareth Melia saw his shot blocked by the keepers legs.

Skegness were playing some good football of their own but despite their neat approach play they failed to create many clear cut chances. Alec Enderby and Chris Johnson performed well at the heart of the defence with Steve Brown and Tommy Chalk very solid at full-back. They dealt well with the balls that Skegness put into the penalty area but Town did survive a scare when a ball was whipped across to the far post and with keeper Andrew Cotton stranded the ball was headed across goal and just wide.

Town looked the more likely to score and when Gareth Melia laid the ball back to Tony Edwards he should have done better but his shot lacked power. Town then thought they should have had a penalty when Tony was brought down but the referee adjudged the challenge to be a fair one to the surprise of both camps.

With the teams going in level at the break, the second half was always likely to be a tight affair but Richard Jackson and Michael Harness both went close as Town looked to seize the initiative. Keeper Andy Cotton had to make a couple of routine saves as Skegness began to threaten but it was Town who got what proved to be the decisive goal just after the hour. Chris Johnson's crossfield pass found Matty Low wide on the left and as the ball sat up he hit a superb volley beyond the keeper into the far corner of the net.

At this stage Town were looking in control of proceedings with Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson prominent in the centre of midfield but with just under twenty minutes remaining Town were reduced to ten men for the second week running. Tony Edwards was already on a yellow card when the referee adjudged that he had fouled an opponent and the showing of a second yellow card led to Tony's dismissal. Skegness changed their front players in a bid to put more pressure on Town's back four but to their credit Town defended well for the final fifteen minutes and rarely looked like conceding. Michael Harness held the ball up intelligently despite having no support and when he played a ball inside the full-back Matty Low's driven shot forced the keeper to make a fine save at his near post.

Skegness continued to press right up until the final whistle but Town held firm to secure a much needed three points. They will be hoping to build on that this coming Saturday when they visit Humbertherm who have had some much improved results recently. Kick-off 2pm.

Town side:

Andrew Cotton, Steve Brown, Matty Low, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Gareth Melia, Richard Jackson, Michael Harness, Tony Edwards, Tommy Chalk. Subs: Dave Marshall, Jamie Lamming, Ben Johnson

Boston United Reserves 5 Horncastle Town 1 Lincolnshire League

13-11-2010

This was a desperately disappointing result for Town although the margin of victory for the home side wasn't a true reflection of the game with Town giving a good account of themselves until they were reduced to ten men just after the hour. There was no denying that Boston were well worth their win but the final twenty five minutes could have been interesting if Town still had eleven men on the pitch when Ollie Johnson curled in a free-kick to make the score 2-1.

Town started the game well and there was little to choose between the sides in the early stages. Boston are a very good side at home as their record suggests but Town were competing well and began to create opportunities of their own. When Chris Johnson's free-kick came back off the defensive wall it was returned into the penalty area for Richard Jackson to test the keeper with a dipping volley. Craig Gordon and Michael Harness were combining well up front and Craig saw his low cross blocked after a good move down the right. Chris Johnson's cross was then headed just over by Craig Gordon and the same player saw his effort cleared off the line after Richard Jackson and Ollie Johnson had combined at a corner.

Boston were always a threat but Town were defending resiliently but the home side made the breakthrough ten minutes before the break. Matty Low got turned inside the penalty area and when the ball was squared across the edge of the box their incoming midfielder fired the ball past helpless Andrew Cotton in Town's goal. Town did their best to respond and Richard Jackson fired a low shot wide before Michael Harness volleyed the ball straight to the keeper after good work from Ollie Johnson.

Town would have felt aggrieved to be behind at half-time having played well and they started the second half positively. Gaz Melia and Jamie Lamming were working hard to get forward down the wings as Town looked to get on level terms. However, it was the home side who doubled their lead in controversial fashion. Alec Enderby did well to win the ball in a challenge with Mickey Stones but as he tried to get up to clear the loose ball Mickey appeared to impede him but the referee ignored Town's protests and their striker fired the ball wide of Andrew Cotton into the far corner.

Moments later any hopes Town had of getting back into the game effectively disappeared. Craig Gordon reacted badly to a foul by Nathan Rawdon and pushed the Boston player in the chest giving the referee little option but to produce a red card. Town's frustration was compounded by the fact that Ollie Johnson fired the resulting free-kick over the wall into the top corner of the Boston net from thirty yards but being a man in arrears was to prove decisive. Within five minutes Boston extended their lead when Town failed to clear a cross from the right and Steve Lovett fired the ball home.

It was now simply a matter of damage limitation and Town conceded a further two goals late in the game. This seemed very harsh given that Town had acquitted themselves well for an hour but their lack of discipline was to prove costly as Boston took full advantage of their man advantage.

This coming Saturday Town will be hoping to get back to winning ways but they face another stiff test at home to Skegness Town. Kick-off 3pm on The Wong.

Town side: Andrew Cotton, Steve Brown, Matty Low, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Jamie Lamming (Tom Sewell), Richard Jackson (Ollie Kisby), Michael Harness, Craig Gordon, Gareth Melia (Dave Marshall). Sub: Ben Johnson

Ivy Tavern 0 Horncastle Town 5 (County Cup)

06-11-2010 

This had the makings of a very difficult cup tie for Town as they faced a very strong looking Ivy side but goals from Craig "Flash" Gordon (3) and Tony Edwards (2) they progressed without any real problem into the last sixteen of the competition.

Town began the game really sharply and could have scored inside ten seconds. Richard Jackson played the ball forward from the kick-off to Tommy Chalk who found the overlapping Matty Low on the left. He advanced to the byline before pulling the ball back for Craig Gordon to fire just over. The home side looked rattled in the early stages and they still hadn't settled when Town took the lead on five minutes. The impressive Steve Brown won the ball before finding Craig Gordon wide on the right and his far post cross was headed firmly into the corner by the diving Tony Edwards.

Town continued to press and Michael Harness saw a low shot well saved moments before Craig Gordon volleyed just past the upright from a Richard Jackson corner. Matty Low and Tommy Chalk were causing the Ivy defence problems down the left and when Tommy broke clear he crossed for Craig Gordon to volley wide.

At the other end Town were defending resiliently with Alec Enderby and Chris Johnson in commanding form at the heart of the defence. Keeper Andrew Cotton was rarely troubled but when he was tested his handling and positioning were excellent. As half time approached Richard Jackson saw his fine shot come back off the post with the keeper well beaten and so despite their dominance Town had to settle for a solitary goal advantage at the break.

Ivy Tavern tried to force their way back into the game at the start of the second half and their front four were causing problems with their determined approach. Appeals for a penalty were turned down ten minutes into the half but by then Craig Gordon and Tony Edwards had both missed opportunities to double Town's lead. When Craig then failed to hit the target following a long clearance from Andrew Cotton Town could have been made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal but when Tony Edwards got his head to a Matty Low cross the ball dropped to Craig Gordon who finished expertly with a well placed low drive.

This effectively ended the game as a contest and with Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson dominating in midfield it was no surprise when Town added a third goal just after the hour when Tony Edwards found Craig Gordon and he poked the ball beyond the keeper. Manager Paul Johnson then introduced Dave Marshall, Jamie Lamming and Gareth Melia and they all made telling contributions as Town continued to press. When Gareth Melia cleared a corner to Tony Edwards he hooked the ball on to Craig Gordon who returned the favour with a first time cross which Tony controlled before hammering in his second of the game. There was still time for Craig Gordon to complete his hat-trick with Tony Edwards again the provider after Jamie Lamming's forward run had taken defenders away.

Town can be well satisfied with their showing over ninety minutes as they never allowed the home side to get a foothold in the game and they were well worth their final winning margin. However, they will be in for a much sterner test in the next round when they have been drawn away again against Swineshead Institute who are currently second in the Lincolnshire League.

Town side: Andrew Cotton, Steve Brown (Dave Marshall), Matty Low, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson (Jamie Lamming), Michael Harness, Tony Edwards, Craig Gordon, Tommy Chalk (Gareth Melia).

Hykeham Town 1 Horncastle Town 0 Lincolnshire League

30-10-2010

Town have had little success at Hykeham in recent seasons but on this occasion they will have felt very aggrieved to come away with nothing to show for their efforts. After a very nervy first fifteen minutes Town went on to dominate proceedings but they could not make the breakthrough they deserved despite creating a number of good scoring opportunities.

Hykeham started the game strongly and an early shot came back off the upright with keeper Lewis Burchnall beaten. Moments later Hykeham hit the upright again but keeper Burchnall did superbly well to get his fingertips to a free-kick and turn it onto the post. Town's cause was not being helped by some curious refereeing decisions and when Alec Enderby was adjudged to have pushed an opposing player at a corner the resulting penalty award was greeted with amazement. However, Burchnall was again the saviour as he dived to his right to turn the ball away with the rebound being put wide.

Town looked to be getting into the game with Matty Low and Tommy Chalk prominent down the left and Craig Gordon saw his close-range effort saved by the Hykeham keeper who had a fine game throughout. However, Hykeham's early pressure eventually paid off when a Lewis Burchnall throw was intercepted before it reached Tommy Chalk and the ball was returned with interest over his head into the unguarded net.

Despite this setback Town began to get into the game with Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson seeing an increasing amount of the ball in midfield. The impressive Tony Edwards saw his free-kick go just over and Tommy Chalk fired in a superb effort which was just too high. Craig Gordon and Tony Edwards caused the home defence problems all afternoon and Craig forced the keeper to make a save low down as Town pressed. Hykeham's direct style put Town's defence under pressure but Chris Johnson and Alec Enderby coped very well at the heart of the defence. However, when they were caught out of position Steve Brown covered superbly to block the ball on the goal line and keep Town in the game.

Town almost equalised when Tony Edwards set up Ollie Johnson but his long range drive struck the crossbar with the keeper well beaten. Town continued to press and the Hykeham keeper pulled off a superb diving save to deny Craig Gordon. As half time approached Town were totally dominating proceedings but a header from a Hykeham midfielder clipped the top of the bar to remind Town that they still posed an attacking threat.

Town started the second half strongly and Craig Gordon again went close. Gareth Melia then forced the keeper to make another fine save from his far post header and moments later Craig Gordon broke through but after rounding the keeper the angle was too tight for him to get a shot on goal. The same player then had another opportunity from a fine Chris Johnson cross but he steered his volley just wide of the far post.

Hykeham were on the defensive for virtually the whole of the second half but their long ball approach still posed a threat but with Steve Brown and Alec Enderby outstanding at the back for Town they rarely threatened and it was Town who always looked the more likely scorers. Michael Harness replaced the hard working Gareth Melia as Town looked to get on level terms and a great half volley from Tommy Chalk flashed just wide. Town forced a number of corners in the final minutes but despite some great deliveries from Richard Jackson they could not find the vital touch and were ultimately disappointed despite a fine team performance.

This coming Saturday Town are away to the Ivy Tavern in the County Cup - kick-off 1.45pm.

Town side: Lewis Burchnall, Steve Brown, Matty Low, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Olli Johnson, Gareth Melia (Michael Harness), Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Craig Gordon, Tommy Chalk. Subs: Tom Sewell, Ben Johnson, Andrew Cotton. 

Lincolnshire League

16-10-2010

Grimsby Borough Reserves 2 Horncastle Town 4 Lincolnshire League 

16-10-2010

Town will be satisfied with the three points gained away from home but will know that the winning margin should have been far greater as they missed a host of chances throughout the ninety minutes. They totally dominated proceedings but had to endure a nervy last ten minutes as they somehow allowed the home side to get within a single goal deficit with two minutes remaining. Fortunately a late goal from Craig Gordon gave a more realistic look to the final score.

Town were without regulars Dave Marshall, Tommy Chalk and Tom Sewell but manager Paul Johnson still put out a strong squad and they quickly gained the initiative with Richard Jackson and Ollie Johnson dominating the midfield. Town soon started to create opportunities and when Craig Gordon pulled the ball back to Tony Edwards he saw his effort blocked on the line. Chris Johnson then fired a superb volley just over after controlling a Richard Jackson corner and Craig Gordon dragged a shot wide after good work from Michael Harness. Another Craig Gordon effort came back off the keeper before the same player fired a left foot shot just wide. Gareth Melia and Matty Low were combining well down the left as Town continued to press and when Michael Harness picked out Craig Gordon inside the penalty area his header came back off the bar with the keeper beaten.

Town's back four were looking solid with Alec Enderby and Chris Johnson forming a strong partnership at the heart of the defence along with full-backs Steve Brown and Matty Low who both had fine games. Keeper Lewis Burchnall was a virtual spectator but he had to come off his line to clear the danger after a long ball deceived his defenders. Despite creating numerous opportunities Town looked as though they would go into the break goalless but right on half-time Craig Gordon spotted the run of Tony Edwards who ran clear before finishing with ease.

Town began the second half in similar fashion and Craig Gordon fired against the keepers legs after good work from Tony Edwards. Gareth Melia then fired wide before Tony Edwards spurned another opportunity. However, Town were not to be denied and when Matty Low challenged the keeper as he came off his line the ball fell to Craig Gordon who fired unerringly into the unguarded net.

Town were very much in the ascendancy and Grimsby Boro's impressive keeper did superbly to turn a Chris Johnson volley onto the bar. Gareth Melia headed a superb crossfield pass from Michael Harness back across the penalty area but Tony Edwards headed wide. Moments later Town scored their third when Richard Jackson crossed for the unmarked Matty Low who finished comfortably to give Town what seemed an unassailable lead.

Ollie Kisby and Jamie Lamming replaced Ollie Johnson and Michael Harness for the final quarter of the game and Town continued to create further chances. A Matty Low cross was hammered against the bar by Tony Edwards and minutes later the same two players combined again as Tony headed just over. Craig Gordon and Tony Edwards both forced the keeper into further saves before Town had to make an enforced substitution when Chris Johnson took a knock. Steve Brown moved to centre-half and Ben Johnson came on at right-back as Town looked to see out the final minutes but with five minutes remaining Grimsby Boro's left winger cut inside before firing a fine shot wide of Lewis Burchnall and in off the far post. This seemed little more than a consolation but two minutes later Town conceded possession in midfield and as they backed off the player with the ball he took full advantage to thunder a shot in off the underside of the bar. Town were suddenly looking ragged and a corner in the final minute was headed wide at the near post as Town breathed a collective sigh of relief. Moments later Richard Jackson played the ball through to Craig Gordon who scored at the second attempt after the keeper had initially denied him.

The loss of skipper Chris Johnson may have been a factor but Town should have been able to see out the game comfortably enough and to concede two goals after completing dominating proceedings was disappointing. However, an away win is always pleasing and this result lifts Town to a very respectable third in the table.

Town have no game next Saturday but resume their league program away to Hykeham Town in a fortnight - kick-off 3pm at the Memorial Ground.

Town side: Lewis Burchnall, Steve Brown, Matty Low, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson (Ben Johnson), Ollie Johnson (Ollie Kisby), Michael Harness (Jamie Lamming), Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Craig Gordon, Gareth Melia.  

Fulbeck United 0 Horncastle Town 4 (County Cup) 

09-10-2010

Town had a relatively comfortable passage through to the next round of the County Cup, scoring four goals without reply against their Lincoln league opponents. The home side started brightly and moved the ball well but once Town began to dominate possession the result was never really in doubt and two goals early in the second half effectively ended the game as a contest.

Manager Paul Johnson made a couple of changes from last week with Tom Sewell and Steve Brown starting ahead of Richard Jackson and Jamie Lamming but it was still a strong looking line-up and once Town started to get hold of the ball in midfield little was seen of Fulbeck as an attacking threat. Steve Brown was shown a yellow card early in the game for a badly judged challenge as Town looked to assert some authority on the game but with Michael Harness and Gareth Melia both seeing a lot of the ball in wide areas, Town soon took control. Town forced a series of corners inside the opening twenty minutes but the closest they came to opening the scoring was a fine strike from Tom Sewell that hit the far post from twenty five yards. Tony Edwards went close as he bravely challenged the keeper and Tom Sewell screwed a shot wide after a great run and cross from Tommy Chalk.

However, despite some determined defending from Fulbeck, Town finally made the breakthrough ten minutes before half-time when Steve Brown stabbed the ball home from close range after an Ollie Johnson cross had caused confusion in the penalty area. Town's defence looked solid throughout although keeper Lewis Burchnall had to come off his line to clear right on the stroke of half-time.

Town continued to dominate early in the second half and they quickly added a second goal courtesy of a superb volley from Gareth Melia that dipped just under the bar. Within five minutes Town had added a third goal when the hard working Tony Edwards was brought down in the penalty area with the resulting spot kick being converted by Ollie Johnson. Jamie Lamming, Richard Jackson and Ollie Kisby were all introduced as Town continued to boss the game but keeper Lewis Burchnall reacted well to tip over a looping shot with twenty minutes remaining.

Richard Jackson thundered a terrific shot against the bar after fine build up play involving Gareth Melia and Michael Harness and Michael should have scored after he created space for himself inside the penalty area. However, Town were not to be denied and in the final minutes Jamie Lamming scored with a neat finish after Tom Sewell had created the opportunity for him.

This coming Saturday Town are due to play Grimsby Boro away from home on their newly laid artificial pitch.

Town side:

Lewis Burchnall, Dave Marshall, Tommy Chalk, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson (Ollie Kisby), Michael Harness, Steve Brown (Richard Jackson), Tony Edwards (Jamie Lamming), Tom Sewell, Gareth Melia.  

Ruston Sports 0  Horncastle Town 2 (aet)  

02-10-2010  

This Challenge Cup quarter final was finally settled in the second period of extra time courtesy of goals from Tony Edwards and Richard Jackson but such was Town's dominance throughout, the result should have been well beyond doubt within the ninety minutes. Town dominated proceedings but were guilty of missing a host of chances before the late brace of goals avoided the need for a nervous penalty shoot out.

Manager Paul Johnson was forced into one change owing to the unavailability of Matty Low so Gareth Melia switched to the left with Ollie Johnson brought in on the right. Despite not being in his favoured position Ollie almost gave Town the perfect start but his curling shot went agonisingly close. Town continued to press and when Ollie Johnson miscontrolled Gareth Melia's fine cross the ball fell to Tony Edwards but he shot just wide.

The chances continued to come and when the impressive Tommy Chalk released Tony Edwards he seemed certain to score but his chipped effort was scrambled away by the Rustons keeper.

Town defended well throughout with Alec Enderby and Chris Johnson looking solid at the heart of Town's defence but on the one occasion Rustons did break clear their centre forward failed to hit the target. Keeper Andy Cotton was a virtual spectator apart from having to punch away a fiercely driven shot and it was Town who continued to create chances. When Tony Edwards broke clear again he attempted to round the keeper who again did well but Tony reacted quickly to retrieve the ball and curl a left footed shot on target but the ball was headed off the line as the Rustons goal led a charmed life.

The second half saw much of the same as Town quickly regained the initiative. A clipped ball from Richard Jackson found Tony Edwards but his volley went just wide of the upright. Tony then turned provider for Michael Harness but his low shot was deflected wide off the keepers legs. Tom Sewell and Steve Brown replaced Jamie Lamming and Dave Marshall who had both played well and Town pressed forward relentlessly. Richard Jackson fired over from long range and when a corner dropped to Ollie Johnson he fired a fierce shot inches over the bar with the keeper beaten. Tom Sewell then turned well in the box before firing just wide of the near post and as Town continued to dominate a Gareth Melia shot was scrambled off the line following confusion at a corner.

Despite controlling the game, Town were forced to go into extra time with Luke Shelbourn replacing Gareth Melia and Tommy Chalk pushing further forward. An early cross from Michael Harness just eluded Tony Edwards at the far post and moments later Tony played in Michael on the right but his indecision allowed the keeper to come out quickly and smother the ball. Tommy Chalk fired a left footed shot wide as Town pushed forward but as the game entered the second period of extra time Town must have been starting to think about the possibility of penalties but with ten minutes remaining they finally took the lead. Luke Shelbourn showed great awareness to pick out Michael Harness with a diagonal ball and when the ball was played into Tony Edwards he turned sharply before hammering a fine shot past the keeper at his near post. Rustons didn't have chance to respond before Town added a second goal within two minutes. A short corner between Tommy Chalk and Richard Jackson ended with Richards low cross sneaking in at the near post following the slightest of deflections.

There was still time for Town to threaten a third goal when Chris Johnson played in Tony Edwards but the keeper again did well to beat away Tony's shot. Shortly afterwards the referee ended a satisfactory afternoon for Town but they will know only too well that they will need to convert more of the chances they create in future games if they are to build on what is a reasonable start to the season.

This coming Saturday Town travel to play Fulbeck in the County Cup - kick-off 2.15pm.

Town side: Andrew Cotton, Dave Marshall (Steve Brown), Tommy Chalk, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Jamie Lamming (Tom Sewell), Ollie Johnson, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Michael Harness, Gareth Melia (Luke Shelbourn).

Horncastle Town 3 Heckington United 1 

25-09-2010

This was a much improved Town performance from recent weeks and the only surprise was that they did not win by a bigger margin given their dominance throughout. Manager Paul Johnson reverted to a 4-4-2 formation given the unavailability of regulars Ollie Johnson, Olle Kisby and Steve Brown and Jamie Lamming partnered Richard Jackson in the centre of midfield. Michael Harness moved further forward to play alongside Tony Edwards and with both Matty Low and Tommy Chalk available the side had a better balance than in recent games.

Town started strongly and were soon posing a lot of problems for the Heckington defence. The pace of Matty Low down the left was a major factor as Town quickly gained the initiative and Tony Edwards saw a low shot well saved by the keeper. Tommy Chalk and Matty Low then combined superbly to set up Tony again but he volleyed the ball just wide as the keeper advanced from his goal. Town continued to press and Tony Edwards had another chance to open the scoring when he created space for himself inside the penalty area but his shot was again saved by the keeper.

Town were playing some attractive football but it was a more direct approach that brought them the opening goal midway through the half. Andrew Cotton's long clearance was flicked on by Tony Edwards and although Matty Low looked to have been blocked out, he turned quickly before firing a low shot inside the near post to give Town a deserved lead. Michael Harness and Jamie Lamming both went close as Town continued to press and ten minutes before the break they added a second goal. Andrew Cotton again launched a long clearance towards Tony Edwards and as the Heckington keeper hesitated, Tony diverted the ball past him and into the empty net for a well deserved goal.

Heckington reminded Town that they were still very much in the game when a misplaced header from Chris Johnson fell invitingly for their striker but he steered the ball wide with Andrew Cotton beaten. Town should have taken full advantage of this to add a third goal right on half-time when Richard Jackson fed the ball through for Tony Edwards but he chipped the ball wide of the far post with the goal at his mercy.

To their credit, at the start of the second half Town continued where they had left off and Heckington were not allowed to get back into the game. The back four of Dave Marshall, Tommy Chalk, Alec Enderby and Chris Johnson were solid throughout with Tommy having an excellent game at full-back. The game was effectively over as a contest on the hour when Chris Johnson drove a free-kick beyond the defensive wall and in off the far post after Matty Low had been fouled. Town should have added a fourth shortly afterwards when Gareth Melia headed the ball inside to Tony Edwards who advanced into the penalty area before unselfishly squaring the ball to Matty Low who fired wide.

Alex Agorini, Tom Sewell and Ben Johnson were all introduced for the final twenty minutes as Town looked to consolidate their position but it was the away side who reduced the deficit when Town were caught out of position down their left and the Heckington substitute fired a low shot in off the near post despite the efforts of Andrew Cotton in the Town goal. Despite this setback Town saw out the game comfortably with all of the substitutes doing well when they went on. Tom Sewell was unlucky not to open his account for the season when he linked well before firing in a low shot, which came back off the keepers legs.

Nevertheless, this was a very satisfying performance from Town and one they will be hoping to build on in the forthcoming weeks.

This coming Saturday Town travel to play Rustons in the Challenge Cup - kick-off 2.30pm.

Town side:

Andrew Cotton, Dave Marshall, Tommy Chalk, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Jamie Lamming, Gareth Melia (Alex Agorinin), Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Michael Harness (Tom Sewell), Matty Low (Ben Johnson

Lincolnshire League

25-09-2010

Horncastle Town 1 Grimsby Borough Reserves 1 

18-09-2010

Despite remaining unbeaten for the third successive game, Town will still feel this was two points lost rather than one gained. A second half header from Alec Enderby ensured that Town emerged with something to show from the game but their play lacked its usual fluency or cohesion in what was another lacklustre performance on The Wong.

Ollie Kisby had not recovered from the hip injury he sustained at Long Sutton so Steve Brown continued in midfield alongside Ollie Johnson and Richard Jackson. Gareth Melia was restored to the left side with Matty Low and Tommy Chalk part of a strong looking bench.

Town started reasonably well and were soon dominating possession but they lacked a real cutting edge and failed to turn their dominance into many clear scoring opportunities. Richard Jackson saw a low shot go just wide and Tony Edwards did well to meet a cross from Dave Marshall but was unable to direct his header on target. Dave then had the best chance of the half after playing a neat one-two with Richard Jackson inside the penalty area but he sliced his shot across the face of goal. Tony Edwards then turned sharply before playing a clever ball into Richard Jackson but his shot was smothered by the visitors keeper. Steve Brown was then unlucky when his curling effort was well saved by the Grimsby Boro keeper who performed well throughout.

Grimsby Boro offered little in attack but their left winger proved a handful when they got forward. Lewis Burchnall was confident throughout in Town's goal but he could do nothing about the visitors goal ten minutes before the break. A set piece was half cleared by Dave Marshall but Town failed to react when the ball was returned into the box and a shot on the turn gave the away side a surprise lead at the interval.

Town responded well at the start of the second half and Michael Harness fired a low shot just wide of the far post after good work from Richard Jackson. A Chris Johnson free-kick stung the keepers hands as Town pressed and they got their deserved reward ten minutes into the half when Tony Edwards did well to deliver a great cross to the far post which was met by Alec Enderby who buried his header into the net.

Matty Low and Tommy Chalk were introduced shortly afterwards as Town looked to push for a winner and they should have taken the lead with fifteen minutes remaining. A superb crossfield ball from Tommy Chalk found Michael Harness who advanced towards goal before unselfishly suaring the ball to Tony Edwards but Tony took a touch before shooting and his effort was blocked on the line. A fine far post header from Gareth Melia went straight into the keepers midriff as Town continued to press and Matty Low fired a great shot just wide of the far post.

At the other end Lewis Burchnall pulled off an outstanding fingertip save to deny the visitors a second goal shortly after Town had equalised but in truth it would have been very harsh on Town had they failed to take anything from the game. Whilst not being at their best, Town's attitude and commitment could not be faulted and if they continue to work hard they should soon rediscover their early season form.

This coming Saturday Town entertain Heckington United on The Wong - kick-off 3.00pm.

Town side:

Lewis Burchnall, Jamie Lamming (Matty Low), Dave Marshall, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson (Tommy Chalk), Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Steve Brown, Gareth Melia. Subs: Tom Sewell, Ben Johnson, Alessandro Agorini

Problem?

There is some doubt as to whether or not the result against Long Sutton will stand. We were notified during extra time that the tie should have gone straight to penalties after ninety minutes. The referee was made aware of this midway through extra time (he should have known anyway!) but both sides wanted to play out the remaining fifteen minutes to try and get a result. However, the Lincs FA may decide that the game needs to be replayed this coming Saturday because we should not have gone into extra time.  Paul Podge Johnson 

Long Sutton 1 Horncastle Town 2 (AET)  Lincs Junior Cup 

11-09-2010

Town finally secured victory with a Michael Harness goal two minutes from the end of extra time but they made hard work of proceedings and were well below their best. Town should have wrapped the game up in ninety minutes but a mixture of poor finishing and sloppy play allowed the home side to extend the game when poor defending at a corner resulted in the ball being lifted beyond Andrew Cotton.

Manager Paul Johnson had problems prior to kick-off with all of his usual left sided options being unavailable but Dave Marshall and Jamie Lamming deputised well throughout. Alec Enderby returned to partner Chris Johnson at the heart of the defence and the back four looked solid with the home side restricted to few scoring opportunities.

Town began brightly and Tony Edwards saw his strike well saved after good work from Michael Harness. Tony then turned provider as his cross was volleyed on the turn by Michael but the keeper pulled off a fine save. Town continued to dominate possession but were not playing with their usual fluency and too often passes were misplaced. Richard Jackson fired a low shot wide as Town pressed and a fine cross from Michael Harness eluded everyone but Town almost presented Long Sutton with a goal when they were caught in possession at the back but keeper Andrew Cotton pulled off a fine fingertip save.

Ollie Kisby was forced to retire due to injury with Tom Sewell taking his place before half-time and Tom had a great chance to break the deadlock right on half-time but he headed the ball over from close range after good work from Tony Edwards.

Town were disappointed to still be on level terms at the break but after a promising start to the second half they got their reward fifteen minutes in when a Tony Edwards cross was volleyed back across goal by Michael Harness for Ollie Johnson to fire into the roof of the net. Town should have doubled their lead within two minutes when Ollie played a fine ball to Michael who advanced to the by-line before squaring the ball to Tom Sewell but he delayed his shot and the defender got back to block the ball on the line.

Town had further opportunities to extend their lead but it was the home side who drew level with fifteen minutes remaining when Town failed to clear a corner. Despite this setback Town should have regained the lead almost immediately when Tony Edwards broke clear down the left before setting up Michael Harness but he got the ball stuck between his feet and the chance went begging. Town could not find enough quality to settle the tie inside ninety minutes and the game went into extra time. Steve Brown was competing tenaciously in midfield as Town looked to regain the initiative and Ollie Johnson saw his low shot blocked on the line after a neat interchange with Richard Jackson. Tony Edwards then saw his effort blocked as Town pushed forward. Michael Harness put over a number of fine crosses from the right but the home defence coped reasonably well and as the game drew to a close Andrew Cotton reacted superbly to beat away a fiercely struck shot. With penalties looming, Town finally made the breakthrough with two minutes remaining. Tow Sewell did well to win a free-kick on the left and although his fine ball in looked to have eluded everyone, Michael Harness fired the ball into the far corner from the narrowest of angles to seal a deserved but unconvincing win for Town.

Town side:

Andrew Cotton, Steve Brown, Dave Marshall, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Ollie Kisby (Tom Sewell), Jamie Lamming. Subs: Tom Phillips, Ben Johnson.

Horncastle Town 0 Sleaford Town Reserves 0 

04-09-2010

This was a desperately frustrating afternoon for Town who enjoyed the vast majority of possession were unable to break down a well-disciplined Sleaford back line. Manager Paul Johnson was denied the services of Tony Edwards, Tommy Chalk, Alec Enderby, Andrew Cotton and Luke Shelbourn but that was no excuse given the territorial advantage Town enjoyed against a young but hard working Sleaford side. Town created enough chances to have won the game but the visitors hung on to claim a well deserved point and leave Town feeling disappointed that this was two points dropped rather than one gained.

Despite their dominance Town lacked a cutting edge in the final third and too often the final ball forward was misjudged or misplaced. Gareth Melia looked the most likely player to break the deadlock and when he lobbed the keeper from distance he was unlucky to see the ball bounce over the bar. The same player then saw a curling effort well saved as Town pressed and they could have taken the lead midway through the half when Chris Johnson's downward header was scrambled behind by the keeper. Town's skipper then fired a free kick over the bar after Ollie Johnson had been fouled but Town were struggling to create many clear scoring opportunities.

Town's best chance of the half fell to Tom Sewell after good work from Michael Harness but the keeper reacted well to turn the ball away. Sleaford's keeper performed well throughout but too often his job was made too easy by the lack of quality in front of goal. Town continued to press throughout the second half but needed to remain alert at the back with Dave Marshall having a fine game at the back. Keeper Andy Money dived low to his left to smother a low shot and that was the only time he was really tested all game. A Richard Jackson corner was headed straight at the keeper by Ollie Kisby as Town continued to press and Gareth Melia cut inside before curling a shot to the far post which the keeper dealt with well.

Jamie Lamming replaced Tom Sewell as Town pushed more players forward and both Ollie Johnson and Michael Harness went close. Steve Brown and Matty Low both pushed forward from fullback to join the attack but Town still found it hard to find space further forward. Richard Jackson broke into the box but his effort was blocked and Gareth Melia just failed to get on the end of a great ball from Jamie Lamming. Further strikes from Gareth Melia and Michael Harness forced good saves from the keeper but Town's best opportunity fell to Jamie Lamming in the final minute. A fine strike from Michael Harness was parried by the keeper but Jamie's follow-up was scrambled off the line and away for a corner. This proved to be the last chance of a really frustrating ninety minutes for Town's players but they will be pleased to have kept a clean sheet prior to next weeks County Cup tie away at Long Sutton.

Town side:

Andy Money, Steve Brown, Matty Low, Dave Marshall, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Michael Harness, Richard Jackson, Tom Sewell (Jamie Lamming), Ollie Kisby, Gareth Melia Subs: Harry Maszyr, Ben Johnson

Lincolnshire League

04-09-2010

Horncastle Town 1 Lincoln Utd Reserves 2

Town were hoping to follow up their impressive victory against Humbertherm with a further three points against Lincoln Utd but a brace of goals from Chris Funnell in the second half cancelled out Tony Edwards opener for Town.

The game was played at a frantic pace throughout but Town coped reasonably well in the first half. It was difficult for either side to get a foot on the ball and slow proceedings down but Town looked the better side and Ollie Johnson fired over early in the half. Tommy Chalk was a constant threat down the left and his low cross was hurriedly cleared ahead of the incoming Tony Edwards.

Keeper Andy Money held a couple of long range efforts comfortably as the visitors looked to gain the initiative but Town continued to offer a threat going forward and Richard Jackson drove a low shot wide of the far post. However, Town took the lead on the half hour when Tony Edwards pulled down a high ball superbly before volleying the ball into the roof of the net for his fourth goal in two games.

The visitors almost responded immediately when a low cross from the right was side footed just wide but Town came closest to adding further goals when a fine ball from Ollie Johnson just eluded Steve Brown at the far post.

Town began to see more of the ball at the start of the second half and looked to be playing with greater composure but a quick break from the visitors brought them level just before the hour. Tommy Chalk was adjudged to be offside from a free-kick but with Town getting back into position a long ball forward allowed their right winger to cut in unopposed and although keeper Money reacted well to save, the rebound was fired in by Funnell to bring the sides level.

The game continued to be played at a frantic pace but it was the visitors who posed a greater threat despite the excellent form of Alec Enderby at the back for Town and when Town allowed Funnell time to shoot from the edge of the box his shot proved too good for Andy Money. Town worked hard to get back on level terms and a great ball from Tommy Chalk just failed to pick out Richard Jackson at the far post. Richard then turned provider as his through ball released Steve Brown but the Lincoln Utd keeper got down well to smother his effort.

Tom Sewell and Tom Phillips were both introduced as Town looked to get back on level terms but despite their best efforts Town could not make the breakthrough and the visitors hung on to take a deserved three points.

This coming Saturday Town are again at home when they entertain Sleaford Town Reserves on The Wong - kick-off 3.00pm.

Town Side:

Andy Money, Dave Marshall (Tom Sewell), Luke Shelbourn, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson, Steve Brown, Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Ollie Kisby (Tom Phillips), Tommy Chalk. Subs: Scott Spooner, Ben Johnson, Andrew Cotton  

Horncastle Town 6 Humbertherm 1 

21-08-2010

Horncastle Town's league season got off to an encouraging start with a comprehensive victory against a useful Humbertherm side. Despite being on level terms at the break Town went on to dominate proceedings in the second half with Tony Edwards completing a well deserved hat-trick.

Manager Paul Johnson opted for a 4-5-1 formation with Tony Edwards asked to operate as a lone striker but with Gareth Melia and Michael Harness adding much needed width Town began positively and Ollie Johnson fired over after good work from Tony Edwards in the penalty area. Richard Jackson went close as Town pressed in the early stages and they got their reward midway through the half when a Michael Harness volley proved too good for the keeper to hold and Tony Edwards reacted quickly to fire in the loose ball.

Town then appeared to sit back and allowed Humbertherm into the game with keeper Andy Money pulling off a couple of fine saves. However, he could do nothing to prevent the away side equalising on the half hour when a cross to the far post was volleyed acrobatically into the net to bring the sides level. To their credit Town responded positively with Tony Edwards, Michael Harness and Ollie Johnson all having chances to restore Town's lead but the teams remained level at half-time but within fifteen minutes of the restart Town had established a clear lead.

Town began the second half with renewed purpose and Tony Edwards headed a Dave Marshall cross just wide. Town were not to be denied and when Ollie Kisby delivered a great ball to the far post debutant Gareth Melia rose highest to head beyond the keeper and restore Town's lead. A minute later and Town added a third when Tommy Chalk's cross was only half cleared and Ollie Johnson rolled the ball to Ollie Kisby who fired unerringly into the bottom corner.

Humbertherm rarely threatened in the second half with Alec Enderby in commanding form at the back for Town and the home side duly added a fourth goal when Chris Johnson fired a free-kick past the defensive wall and into the corner to effectively end the game as a contest. Substitutes Jack Baxter, Jamie Lamming and Steve Brown were all introduced as Town looked to press home their advantage and when Jack Baxter delivered a low cross from the right, Tony Edwards did well to turn in the penalty area before firing into the net. With time running out Tony completed a hat-trick when Gareth Melia's header hit him on the shoulder and deceived the keeper who failed to stop the ball crossing the line.

This completed a very satisfying afternoon for Town but the players will be only too well aware that there will be much stiffer tests to come as the season progresses.

Town side:

Andy Money, Dave Marshall (Jamie Lamming), Tommy Chalk, Alec Enderby, Chris Johnson, Ollie Johnson (Steve Brown), Michael Harness (Jack Baxter), Richard Jackson, Tony Edwards, Ollie Kisby, Gareth Melia. Subs: Carl Smith, Andrew Cotton  

RAF Coningsby 1 Horncastle Town 3

Town's first team concluded their pre-season program with a comprehensive victory against RAF Coningsby on Tuesday evening. Town dominated proceedings from the off and were three goals to the good at the break courtesy of a brace of goals for Richard Jackson either side of a Tony Edwards strike. Both players have been in fine goal scoring form in pre-season and will hope that this continues when the serious stuff begins this coming Saturday.

RAF Coningsby were much improved after the break and did pull a goal back midway through the half to give the score line a more respectable look but Town were worthy winners and should have added to their goals tally in the second period but profligacy in front of goal was to prove costly. Nevertheless, Manager Paul Johnson will have been reasonably satisfied with his sides showing to date but will know only too well that much sterner tasks lie ahead as the season progresses.

This coming Saturday Town open their league campaign with a home fixture against Humbertherm FC on The Wong - kick-off 3.00pm.

Horncastle Town 7 Fishtoft 1

Town's pre-season continued with a comprehensive victory against Boston League Fishtoft. Town began brightly and Ollie Johnson should have opened the scoring after good work from Tony Edwards and Gareth Melia. However Town soon took the lead when a Jamie Lamming cross was headed into the net by Fishtoft's left-back. Midway through the half Richard Jackson added a second with a well placed shot as Town continued to dominate. Tommy Chalk and Tony Edwards went close before Richard Jackson scored his second and Town's third on the stroke of half time.

Fishtoft reduced the deficit early in the second half as Town went to sleep at the back but Tony Edwards restored Town's three-goal advantage with an angled shot. Michael Harness added a fifth with a neat finish before he turned provider for Gareth Melia to add a sixth goal ten minutes from time. There was still time for Town to score a seventh goal when quick thinking from the impressive Ollie Kisby and Gareth Melia played in Tony Edwards for a neat finish.

Recent Horncastle Town Match Reports

Previous A Wongers View Reports 2011/2012

Previous Horncastle Town Match Reports 2011/2012

Previous Horncastle Town Match Reports 2010/2011

Previous Horncastle Town Match Reports 2009/2010

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.                                                     

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.

Help support Horncastle Town Football Club and advertise your business here for as little as £1 per month? email info@htfc.eu for further information.