End of season friendly Harlow 1sts 5 - 0 Harlow 2nds Nowakowski 3, Jones 2
With the scorching sun burning our barnets on a glorious May day the Harlow forces of the 1sts and 2nds met to settle the annual debate of who exactly reigns supreme. Both squads had had mixed fortunes through the season with many good and bad performances but both teams will feel they under achieved with another season seeing the Harlow cabinet bare of silverware.
Tony and Dave prepped their sides and sent them out to perform in mainly top strength formations and line ups, the key areas would be the forwards and how many goals could be scored at either end; so the 1sts preferred youth in attack with Marcus getting a debut up alongside the elderly Mr Pears leaving an experienced bench of Lowey, DC and Morph eager to sunbathe and pass time with lollies and lager. The 2nds left the youth of Burton and the guile and finishing prowess of Whitelaw on the bench choosing to start with Piglet and Pooh in attack!
From kick off the heat impacted on the sides and fitness was obviously going to be vital, strong challenges rained in as both teams tried to dominate, the 1sts defence looked secure and their midfield started to dominate.
Fran misfired the ball into touch; with it heading towards the bench where Sarah and Mally were perching they reacted late and both fell backwards onto their backs; embarrassment ignored Mally commented how it had been a while since a woman had contributed to put him on his back! Not sure if he meant Sarah or Fran?
Kowski scored the first goal of the game with a sublime finish from distance which Ant had no chance to stop. With a lead secured confidence flowed through the 1sts and passing moves began to sublimely shine stronger than the sun. With substitutions made Morph headed up top and after decisive movement to confuse the pedestrian 2nds defence he darted to the near post; Wilky squared a cross slightly behind him but in a flash with a flick of his boot he found the net through his own legs in a Christiano Ronaldo styley!!! Class. The 2nds responded and good chances were fashioned, Danny on target with a header from distance which didn’t trouble Big Bird and Piglet then spooned an effort high and right of the net. Scuba tried hard to get up and down the park sweating like Westie in court with a blankety blank cheque book and pen in his pocket but like so many of his colleagues his first touch and subsequent shooting were off the mark.
Another chance for the firsts came but quite frankly the ever greedy Danny H can’t shoot for toffee – get some new boots!
Half time came and players refreshed themselves with water over their heads and lollies which Sarah and Michelle had thankfully provided, most though fancied a lager and you could see players were hoping for an early substitution.
Second half started in the same vain as the first, Danny H and Sean combining with Meds and Kowski in midfield to move the tiring reserves across the park, again movement from Morph totally confused Fran and with the ball squared across the park he had a simple tap in at the back door. 3-0 and the game was up.
Chances continued at both ends though and more goals should have been scored especially with the lenient sorry non existent off side flagging from Mr Lowe. Tom had a good few chances; one of which after advancing towards the six yard box and with Big Bird going down earlier than an anticipating lady friend could ever hope for he only managed to fire it at the flailing keeper!
Kowski then struck home a fourth with a neat finish into the low left hand corner and with ever more tiring players and formations going to pot the same player secured a well deserved hat-trick to end the game with a dominant 5-0 scoreline.
The game was played with a fantastic spirit which considering the occasional challenges of the ever determined and battling hard whether it’s a friendly or a final against bitter rivals sliding tackles Andy Story was really pleasing! Lets hope all return to pre season training as determined to get fit.
Sean received the trophy from Mally in the club and astounded all around him with his eloquent and lengthy speech!! He has a lot to learn!
Game 33 Kirkby Malzeard 0 - 0 Harlow Hill - game not played 3 pts awarded
Game 32 League 01/05/08 Thackley 3 - 1 Harlow Hill Medley
For the final game of the League Harlow buckled down to some of the best football of their season, passing and moving, good communication and slowly organised built attacks and decisive break aways led to us dominating the 1st half. Chances came and Wilk volleyed them into kingdom come! Finally after good battling and strong team play down the right Pearsi crossed the ball for Meds to tap home at the far post. Thackley responded but an excellent defensive display from the experimental back four of Silvers, Brownie, Morph and DC ably supported by Big bird and Danny H as a crunching centre midfielder kept them at bay. We again broke away down the right and with Kowski bearing down on goal spoilt for choice to square the ball or shoot did the latter but unfortunately crashed the ball into the bar. This spurred Thackley and a cross field ball turned our defence, they crossed the ball with deflected off Brownie and their striker finished well. With the light failing, the flood lights came on; new problems for Harlow but again we battled well however continual pressure from Thackley led to corner after corner as we dropped deeper and deeper. Yellow cards were picked up as we tired and unfortunately we went behind in the last ten minutes. Formation changed to get the point back but a late third was conceded. With season over on reflection this was a good performance and good hope can be held for the start of the new season. Although we need to be a lot lot fitter and able to last 90 minutes!
Game 31 League 19/04/08 Harlow Hill 0 - 5 Kirk Deighton Rangers
I’m not sure this game deserved a write up, failings all around the park led to us being out played. Deighton fully deserved their win as the only Harlow player to perform anywhere near the required level was Sean. Morph was already on his sun-bed and Westi just didn’t want to play for the team, only responding when he had the chance to take a free kick. Marcus got to make an appearance and get some game time under his novice belt, next year could see him challenging for a starting berth????.......
Game 30 League 15/04/08 Harlow Hill 1 - 3 Sherwood Westbury
Game 29 Senior cup 12/04/08 Thackley 4 - 1 Harlow Hill Pears
Game 28 League 05/04/08 Harlow Hill 2 - 1 Spa Athletic Summers, Mallon
Game 27 League 29/03/08 Spa Athletic 5 - 1 Harlow Hill Pears
Game 26 League Challenge cup 01/03/08 Harlow Hill 2 - 5 Burley Trojans Smailes, Jones
The wind was strong contradictory to our performance which was weak, with the slope we had to take an early chance but only minor chances came and went. Burley got their opener from the spot after Wilk unnecessarily upended their striker and they were 2-0 up within minutes as from a soft free kick our wall disintegrated and Simon lamely helped the ball into the net. 2 really poor goals. We pulled 1 back before half time with debutant Simon Smailes confidently slotting home with a well crafted run and finish. Just before half time Burley were lucky to keep 11 men on the park as their lanky streak of piss striker left his boot in on the silver surfer – frustration and the on pitch challenges rose. They pulled further away in the second half; the fourth coming from a good cross from the left which was headed home powerfully. In vain we responded; Danny H delivering a pin point free kick for Morph to bullet header home into the top corner. We increased the pressure but after Meds was felled; confusion and a lack of organisation and professionalism led to Burley’s fifth, we took a throw in and they broke to score before the team had gained composure after a substitution which saw the perennial under used Marcus take to the field. Can’t blame him though’ as he did ok – maybe his bro’ though who at the time of the throw-in was for some reason wearing our keepers gloves!!!! All in all a thoroughly downbeat and poor showing all around.
Game 25 League 23/02/08 Eccleshill Utd 0 - 0 Harlow Hill
With resplendent new kit adorned in club colours of yellow, black and blue we travelled away to Eccleshill with a strong self belief as we were unbeaten in 2008. Absences meant a change to our formation as we kicked off with 4-5-1. The two teams really cancelled each other out with both defences being superior to what the opposition attacks could muster. The big mud tiring pitch didn’t contribute to dominant passing moves and this led to a stalemate. Few chances were created although Wilk did chance his arm or right foot at a long range effort which sailed over the bar and Meds created a break of his own to test the oooohhhs of the crowd! Nick Lowe did excellently to block the ball being diverted goal wards in a three way sandwich with Simon and their striker and all other Eccleshill opportunities were shots from range which didn’t test Simon. Second half came and passed with much the same; Sean went down with cramp and had to be substituted, from the resulting free kick Meds decided to ignore the rest of the team rushing past him in good defending formation and allowed four of their players to be on-side – Simon though’ kept them out!
In a well tempered match the best thing that happened on the day was the final whistle oh and the half time cuppa!
Game 24 League 09/02/08 Bedale Town 2 -2 Harlow Hill Pears, Westbury
A trip to the outer limits, changes in personnel and the fact that we hadn’t played for a couple of weeks meant that this chance to avenge our opening day defeat was never going to be easy even with potential season debutants Hindle and super Scuba on the bench! After a fairly even competitive start to the game Harlow began to dominate with free flowing passing but neither keeper was tested. Then a move which developed from the back built its way down the left with Wilk n Luke combining before Meds, Danny and Sean worked the ball out to an advancing Silverwood to deliver an inch perfect cross onto Pearsi’s head for him to nod a clever back across the keeper finish into the roof of the net. Half time came and the big pitch and clogging mud had definitely sapped the energy of the Harlow players. In the second half with substitutions made we criminally lost the ball from our corner, Bedale broke with speed and beat our off-side trap, Simon initially saved but Bedale followed up to equalise. Our heads dropped and our midfield disappeared; wave of attacks followed and the resolute defence of soon to be silver surfer Big Bird, Wilk, Silvers, Jones and Lowe held out until frustratingly Bedale took the lead. We bounced back with Hindle and Scuba taking to the park, Mallon and Harrison battled hard and the ball fell to Westie for him to superbly strike home and level at 2-2. There was only time left then for Wilk to get his head booted in – leaving the park with blood flowing from his mouth – his lip split and chin cut! Not a bad point but could have been more and less……………
Game 23 League Challenge cup Beckwithshaw 0 - 3 Harlow Hill Mallon 2, Medley
A combfortable 3 - 0 win against a poor Beckwithshaw side, who never looked like scoring as reflected in the point that Simon didn't make a single save all game. Surprisingly on such a small surface we played a lot of controlled football carrying on from the last 2 weeks, it was no surprise after 15 minutes when Sean Mallon scored with a 20 yard drive over the keeper. This was followed up with continious Harlow Hill pressure to lead to the second goal after 30 minutes When a low drilled corner from Mckenzie was met at the near post again by Mallon to prod home. Two more good chances before half time fell to Summers but both were squandered.No changes were made at half time as we were in total control, A hatfull of chances went begging before Westbury and Wilkinson were introduced at the expense of Summers and Mallon. Almost immediatley we scored with a fine move Nowakowski playing the ball to Pears to hold up in the penalty area and he rolled it back to Medley to smash home with his left peg. Before the final whistle Westbury was booked and was then given a straight red after the game due to a confrontation with the referee.
Game 22 Senior Cup 12/01/08 Kirkby Malzeard 1- 2 Harlow Hill Pears 2
Harlow Hill travelled away to Royston Vasey AKA Kirkby Malzeard in the 2nd round of the Senior Cup. The six toed and six finger family side were all out early, getting warmed up in preparation of the “The Outsider” coming to town for a game of fuseball. By all accounts the team were on a promise from their sister 'Barrie the babe' if they won against Harlow. Royston even laid out additional expense on a 12th player - the referee. Harlow Hill started brightly and a neat little side pass from Pears allowed Summers to tuck the ball beyond the reach of the keeper! However, the referee looked across the line to see the 'banjo playing' linesman with his flag in the air and disallowed the goal! Disappointed Harlow dug deep and kept creating chances, but every time they went forward the Banjo-boy's flag was in the air! And every time the referee blew!!! At the other end of the pitch the story was somewhat different, Harlow solid defensive line push out for a text book 'offside trap', the linesman flag went up, yet the referee allowed play to continue 'with an additional forward pass' resulting in Royston Vasey going 1-0 up. Harlow got distracted and their minds went off the game. Half time could not have come sooner for Harlow, the players looked at each other 'realising that if they lost today, they would not be allowed to leave the village'. Second half and every player worked their socks off, McKenzie, Summers, Wilks, Brown and Mallon to name a few were outstanding and it wasn't long until the hard work paid off. Wilks made a Sixty yard run with the ball and swung in a delightful ball for Pears to head home and put Harlow level. It was not long until this pair combined again. This time from a free kick which Wilks delivered in 'on a plate' for Pears to again head home. The work ethic continued and Harlow were not only delighted with their win but also to leave Royston Vasey with all players and supporters that they went there with!
Game 21 League 05/01/08 Harlow Hill 2 - 1 Thackley Pryor, Pears
From the off there was a different atmosphere and a desire to beat 2nd placed Thackley in our first game of 2008 thus banishing the memory of the previous week’s failings. The passing was crisp, fierce challenges made and bar from the odd Pryor mazy run and not releasing the ball the right passing options were taken. We had an early chance when after good hold up play from Pearsi and a sweet down the line ball by Kowk to set Pryor away; he brilliantly squared the ball to Sean who with expert precision managed to hit the post instead of the net! Sean had a chance to put things right from a corner but this time acrobatically volleyed onto the bar! Not his day? We did score first as Meds laid on a precision through ball for Pryor to calmly slot home but Thackley responded within 2 minutes when we poorly cleared a corner and Simon flapped at the ball put back in resulting in an easy goal. New determination from Harlow saw us respond again tho’ and within 5 mins after good battling from Kowk and Pryor; Pearsi rifled home with his left foot! The rest of the game was tight with good defending from Harlow and a particular flying stretching save from Simon really drew gasps of awe from the crowd.
Game 20 League 29/12/07 Bramham 6 - 1 Harlow Hill Whitelaw
It was a dismal display on a dismal day for Harlow Hill as they failed to make any impression against a side where all 3 points should have been won. Harlow Hill traveled to Bramham with a squad of just 12 players. On paper, the team was strong, but in truth it lacked something, perhaps bite, some grit, some determination. In spells Harlow showed some excellences, passes were completed, good build up of play, stylish attacking football, good passing and movement . . . but, like 'Nick Lowe' on a dance floor there was no finishing move! Duncan, being one of many, guilty of not putting away golden chances. It was going to be a bad day at the office! Harlow, can shine bright, but lack consistency. Far too often, Harlow would misplace passes, lose tackles and not work hard enough to win play back. Before long, the score was 2 – 0 and only a poor back pass allowed Whitelaw to put Harlow back into the game. Yet, before half time Harlow poorly conceded once again! At half time with Harlow being 3-1 down, heads were down and questions were being asked by Manager Dave Lowe. However no words could help Harlow, and second half got even worse! Harlow conceded early, then again. With only 5 minutes to go, Harlow Keeper Michael Recchia decided to start playing his own game and kept trying to out-skill the Bramham strikers. Once, twice it worked, but then, one striker outwitted him ('not hard, you may be saying') and another goal goes in, making it 6 – 1. Recchia, even had the cheek to try to blame it on a poor back pass, oh dear! Manager Dave Lowe commented after the game 'That was one of the worse games I have witnessed in my life, certain players would have got a better rating if they didn't turn up!' Harlow will need to roll up their socks if they want to make 2008 a good year! I think it’s safe to say there will be some changes to the starting line up for this week’s home encounter against Thackley.
Game 19 League 01/12/07 Harlow Hill 2 - 1 Bramhope Nowakowski, Mallon
There was drama at Hookstone Park as Harlow Hill left it late to ensure all 3 points from this vital encounter. Confidence was high, bordering on arrogance in the changing room prior to the game amongst the Harlow's Players. Manager Dave Lowe saw this game as a great opportunity to grab all 3 points from their visitors, Bramhope - who sit bottom of the Premier league table. Bramhope have only 6 points to show for their efforts this season (three of which came from a win over Harlow). Perhaps one day Harlow will realise not to count their chickens until they have hatched! Harlow started brightly and looked comfortable knocking the ball around the pitch with some excellent passing and moving. The central midfield trio of Harrison, Medley and Mallon worked well winning most balls and confidently spreading the ball wide to the wing-backs of Nowakowski and McKenzie whom did what was required, taking on their opposing defenders and creating multiple chances for the striking partnership of Pears and Summers. It wasn't long until Harlow took the lead with some delightful interplay, Nowakowski sweetly striking the ball from 30 yards, smashing into the back of the Bramhope net.
It was round about here, when Harlow were in control that they decided to change the style of their football, from Passing and Moving to 'long wasteful balls'. This poor wasteful style allowed Bramhope back into the game, which was soon levelled when Bramhope winger carefully placed the ball in at the far post making it 1 – 1. The defence of Brown, Silverwood and N Lowe were required at their best to keep Bramhope efforts limited to long range, which Big Fairburn Bird pluck from the air with ease.
The supporters on the side line were getting agitated and began having a skill session, which kindly led to the new 'feature' on Harlow's website, which has been named Harlow Hill's Skill School! This week Luke Duncan takes on Lee Wilkinson – who wins you decide!?! Half time came and the frustration was starting to show with Pears' commenting “Get the ball on the deck, we're not F@#king Brazil”, With second half underway, Dave Lowe wanted to freshen things up and brought on Wilks shortly followed by Duncan. The substitutes had their desired affect and the game began to come back into life. Duncan could have made a hero of himself when he was clean through, yet paused, hesitated and poorly shot for the keeper to make a comfortable save. With about 5 minutes to go, Duncan earnt a corner which was sweetly swung in by Wilks for Mallon to leap like a Salmon and header the ball beyond the reach of the keeper making the score 2 – 1. Mallon celebration was a mixture of happiness and anger shouting “get in there you bar steward, get in there you f@#king bar steward” he looks up to see Brown and Nick Lowe smiling and said “Don't Smile”. Bramhope who felt they had done enough to earn a point, pushed hard and Harlow absorbed the pressure well with some fine tackles. Unfortunately Wilks ended up a mere 'flesh wound' after a last minute tackle, which required St Silverwood to bandage up the wound until the Ambulance arrived! Dave Lowe after the match said he was pleased with the result and felt Luke Duncan impact on the match will result in a starting position for him in next weeks trip away to Kirby Malzeard. - Only the fool then made himself unavailable!!! plonker
Game 18 League 24/11/07 Harlow Hill 1 - 3 Thirsk Falcons Summers
Winning the fair play league is now way out of reach for us after picking up another 3 yellow cards but all were awarded for verbals against a frustrating referee and not dangerous play. Thirsk scored first after a clever ball was fed into Les’s feet, he held off Brownie before sweetly turning and firing home. They scored a second with more good play and this only added to our frustration against a very poor referee who was more concerned with having his say….telling Pearsi to ‘shut his trap’ and then telling Danny that if he swore again he himself would carry him off the pitch!!! Second half and a change in shape to 3 at the back to try and get back into the game but unfortunately we conceded a third from the right back area to kill the game at 3-0. From a Pryor free kick Tom Summers confidently slotted home to gain some pride but in reality this game could have been a lot worse if not for some outstanding saves from Simon between the sticks. One in particular was utterly breathtaking when he flung himself full length to tip the ball over the bar. For the cameras?????
Game 17 League 17/11/07 Pannal Sports 0 - 3 Harlow Hill Mallon, Harrison, Mckenzie
Three points were a must in this eagerly anticipated match against recent league whipping boys Pannal and from the first whistle we set out to gain the initiative. The defence was strong and the centre midfield dominant but no early goal came our way when again we spurned our chances. Late in the half though the deadline was broken when following good hold up play from Andi Pears, Sean Mallon thumped home a thunderous drive to the top corner. Relief spread through the team and an excellent move and good inter passing led to Kowski crossing from deep, Danny Harrison profited when from the edge of the area he swung his non standing leg and connected with a stunning volley to leave their keeper flapping helplessly. Even Brownie then advanced from deep and unleashed a shock shot on target. In the second half another good move and a long cross field ball from Meds found Mckenzie in space and after controlling via his nose he slotted home comfortably. The game was over as a contest but an excellent point blank save from Simon ensured Harlow kept only their second clean sheet of the campaign. Good signs for the battle with Thirsk next week?
Game 16 League 10/11/07 Harlow Hill 2 - 1 Otley Town Res Pryor, Pears
A quick return fixture following our 3-0 defeat just a fortnight ago had to lead to a different result. We started strongly with another much changed starting line up but an early re shuffle was required after Sean took a knock to his soft head, after being substituted he repeatedly asked how did I play? What am I doing tonight? and did I take a knock? Much to the frustration of our supporters bench who had to keep giving the same answers. – by the way how was you house party in York that night at Whitey’s! Danny took the field and dominated the park, then after a good run through the middle from Luke who fed Pryor to skip past a defender and slot home we were one up. Continued pressure and chance after chance but no cushion for victory was secured and then Otley struck a deserved equaliser after there own continued stint of pressure. The game was destined for a draw until with seconds remaining Silvers whipped in a perfect cross and Andi rose to powerfully head home – such a relief and a very welcome 3 points.
Game 15 League 03/11/07 Burley Trojans 2 - 2 Harlow Hill Nowakowski, Pears
In an evenly fought game Burley took the lead from an offside position, a driven cross leading to a well finished diving header at the back post. Our equalizer came from a long ball when Tom flicked on and Kowski fiercely drove home. Burley piled on the pressure and it was left to Silvers to clear three attempts off the line; one in particular racing back to head the ball over when a goal looked a certainty. Simon also made some impressive saves but eventually we conceded a second where from another offside position Burley attacked which led to the ball ballooning up in the six yard box and they reacted first to nod home. Both teams then went three up top as the game flowed freely from end to end. We equalised again when Andi neatly trapped the ball and turned on a six pence on the edge of the area and with the help of a deflection found the corner of the Burley net. Both teams pressed for a winner but to no avail.
Game 14 League 27/10/07 Otley Town Res 3 - 0 Harlow Hill
Changes to the team again as players were rested and part timers returned. Same result early on though as after a defensive disaster when the ball was allowed to bounce by Brownie the Otley striker ghosted through to confidently slot home. Summers then had a good chance to equalise but the keeper plucked the ball from the air. Wilk then had to retire early after injuring himself sliding through a tackle. Lowey entered the fray but could do nothing to shore up the Harlow defence. Otley scored a second early in second half as unopposed a player strode into our area, Simon saved and the post was hit before Otley converted. Brownie departed the scene with mild concussion and reorganisation was needed. We never really looked like scoring at all, Otley scored a third when their striker was allowed hours of time to flick up the ball in the area and shoot past the helpless Mr Fairburn. Really poor performance this week and things have to improve.
Game 13 Whitworth Cup 20/10/07 Harlow Hill 1 - 4 Boroughbridge
With several players away sinking putts on Kowski’s 21st birthday a strong start was needed and after early exchanges we received some much needed luck; Oggy lashed a back pass into Pooley’s backside and the ball rebounded into the net. We switched off, relaxed, lost concentration and B’Bridge pounced after Brownie let the ball bounce at the back. We quickly conceded a second after Silvers lost the plot and tried to show some dribbling skills in his own six yard box…he failed and after the ball was pinched from him we were 2-1 behind. Early into the 2nd half we dominated and should of drawn level but we couldn’t convert. Big bird then had a half hour to forget as firstly he fumbled the ball to gift the opposition a 3rd, then went on a mazy run up the field before engaging in his own royal rumble with 2 of the B’Bridge players; once again he took on the opposition, got skinned and pulled back their player for a certain penalty which somehow wasn’t awarded. Bridge scored a late 4th after Eagling danced through our defence to slot home his second and we were out of another cup at the hands of Boroughbridge!
Game 12 - 13/10/07 - League Thirsk 3 - 0 Harlow Hill
We journeyed away to an unbeaten Thirsk team who soon demonstrated why they are top of the league and so difficult to beat, they pressured us with wave after wave of attacks but our defence was resolute and Simon was on top form to repel all. Lowey even spilt blood for the cause by putting his head into a challenge near the line but with the ball still heading for the goal Morph hooked it clear from under the bar. Then after a speculative and fairly lame shot was driven towards goal and Simon’s grasp Lowey deflected it home for his usual OG! We then had some good chances but Chubbs passed to their keeper instead of shooting and seconds before half time the same player was deemed to have felled their elusive but diving number 11 by the referee who was obviously unsighted by his fly away mop hair and Thirsk eased into a 2-0 lead. Same pattern for the 2nd half with awesome team defending bar Westie who turned his back on the ball at a corner and then wouldn’t tackle the nettles to retrieve the ball! Only a fortunate penalty area scramble with seconds left saw Thirsk striker Les drill home a third.
Game 11 - 06/10/07 - League Harlow Hill 2 - 2 Pannal Sports Pears 2
The signs looked good as recent lucky mascot Dan H arrived to spectate minus crutches but Harlow couldn’t take all 3 points in a wasteful display. Early pressure led to a certain penalty for Pannal as from a deep corner Westi could only keep the ball out with a quick reflex save. With penalty dispatched we looked to respond and Westi swung across a pin point ball after Morph had won the ball back in Midfield and Pearsi precisely drove home the equalizer. More pressure and a rare Wilki header and a not so rare Wilki clattering the player at the same time challenge followed. Pryor should of ensured we took a half time lead but shot wide when it would have been easier to score! We went behind again from a central defensive blunder; a Pannal long ball led to indecision and the Pannal striker lofted the ball over Simon. Meds then surged through their defence and Pearsi profited with his second after smashing the ball and their keeper! More chances followed but we couldn’t convert a winner….wasteful.
Game 10 - 29/09/07 - Cup Masham 2 - 8 Harlow Hill Silverwood, Mallon, Pryor 3, Pears, Jones, Medley
In search of a good cup run Harlow travelled deep into the country fending off the sheep on the way. Tactical changes saw us revert to a 4-4-2 and after an early advance down the right Silvers volleyed home from outside the area, the ball kindly deflecting off a Masham players back and looping into the top corner. It could easily have been 1-1 after slack early defending but Simon saved us with another full length fling of his body to push the ball round the post. We then dominated with even Lowey surging into the opposition half and unleashing an effort that would have troubled the net if it had been on target! Sean got a tap in and Adam notched his first from Andi’s cushioned header. Pryor netted his second from a bend it Beckham like cross from Morph for a half time 4-0 lead. Andi scored the fifth from a good team move and Pryor declined the chance for his hatrick from a self won penalty so Morph stroked it home. (Note to Tom!) Masham netted 2 replies as we switched off before Pryor deservedly got the match ball after rounding the keeper and Meds confidently drove home the 8th from Westi’s cross.
Game 9 - 22/09/07 League Kirk Deighton Res 2 - 0 Harlow Hill
Harlow failed to score for the first time this season but it certainly wasn't due to no chances being created. Against our bogey side we started comfortably and distributed the ball well but both sides cancelled each other out. Deighton took the lead towards the end of the first half when a speculative 30 yard strike from their left back cruelly and viciously swerved past Simon. We responded with extra pressure and were awarded a penalty after a clear handball, after player indiscretion against the captain's decision Tom (never missed a spot kick in his life) Whitelaw confidently stepped up to place it within their keepers dive. Second half saw more chances with Andi Pears blazing over the bar for us and Simon making some good saves to keep us in touch. Meds and Simon collided whilst the latter punched a cross clear and from the immediately returned shot Simon could only parry the ball into the net from being dazed on the floor. We tried to get back into the game by putting 3 up front but their big gay centre half ( Kowski quote) defended well and disppointingly the game ended in defeat. Even throwing on our secret weapon at the death couldn't save us as he didn't get a touch!!!
Game 8 - 15/09/07 League Harlow Hill 4 - 0 Kirby Malzeard Westbury 2, Medley, Mallon
Harlow were cheered on by an amazing turn out of dedicated supporters in their drive for back to back wins, 3 – 5 – 2 again led to early dominance and Zippy profited when his left foot shot jumped over their keeper to give us the lead. Zippy scored a second shortly after, this time connecting with a fierce left foot strike which bulged the net. Smiles all round. The defence were commanding and playing the ball out from the back to launch wave after wave of attack until seconds before half time Kirby unleashed a top corner swerver which Simon sublimely flew to his left to tip onto the post and wide. Kirby were better at the start of the second half with their Italian head banded white booted grease ball lacking the skill to score before Harlow helped their goal difference with Meds skipping through the defence and blasting home. Sean added a fourth from a long throw, guiding his header cleverly into the net. Sean then saw a bit of red mist and was subbed for the calming influence of Wilk!!!!!
Game 7 - 08/09/07 League Harlow 2 - 0 Eccleshill Utd Pears, Aspey
Well what a difference a week makes!, a beautiful sunny day, fresh optimism, character, strength, passion, bit of luck and a strength of belief led to a really commanding team victory. 3-5-2 led to the centre midfield trio of Meds, Kev and Sean dominating the early exchanges with the latter striking a mis-hit shot / cross which fell into Pearsie’s perfectly timed run, he danced round the keeper and shinned the ball into the corner – a Harlow lead! Strong performances were needed as some of the Eccleshill challenges were fierce, Meds hit the turf hard n saw silver flashes n stars….as I came on! Simon nearly felled their golden toothed striker as he followed through and later the same player told Westi he was gonna go to his car, get his gun n put a cap in his ass! – Westi bent over as he thought his luck was in!. Defence kept a clean sheet for the 1st time in ages with Simon pulling off a couple of super stops at 1-0 before Meds slotted in Olly for him to confidently drive home the decisive 2nd.
Game 6 - 01/09/07 League Sherwood 6 - 1 Harlow Pears
Where has the Harlow spirit gone? There seems to be little effort, no desire, no enthusiasm and no passion at the moment; things have to change or we are looking at relegation. Barely a fit 11 players and a weakened bench kicked off against Sherwood and defeat was in the offing from the start. The pace and finishing showed by Sherwood combined with strength around the park led to a one sided game and a humiliating score line. Again though a weak referee did contribute as he should have sent off Ben Lazenby for a reckless challenge on Chris Silverwood. Andi Pears did score a consolation goal with a sweet strike from the edge of the area but from the look of the lowered heads that trudged off the park defeated and injured we need a real injection of luck and skill to lift us for next weekend.
Game 5 - 28/08/07 League Harlow 1 - 2 Bramham Wilkinson
Another game another poor ref. Bramham started strongly and were physically stronger than us for the majority of the game, newly promoted and eager for the three points they won every challenge and were first to every ball. They deservedly took the lead proving the theory hat Harlow can’t score first! We did equalise before half time after good work down the right led to Luke crossing the ball and Wilkie sweeped home a sublimely struck shot to give us hope. Then in the second half the referee failed to see a blatant hand ball and from the resultant cross Bramham took the lead. We didn’t recover and Bramham had chance after chance to seal the game; only resilient defending, good goalkeeping and the metalwork kept them at bay. Second half did see some improved battling performances especially from Chris Silverwood and Sean Mallon but overall we are lacking something this season……………
Game 4 - 25/08/07 League Harlow 4 - 3 Burley Nowakowski, Whitelaw, Aspey 2
Again Harlow conceded the first goal in an ever worrying season trend, Burley gathering the ball easily in midfield and drifting a slow shot into the bottom corner agonisingly out of Simon’s reach. David should of equalised with a diving header from a perfectly delivered Wilkie corner but didn’t! Kowkski then did equalise with a mis hit lob which dropped just into the corner of the net after a super breakaway. Burley scored a second before a controversial equaliser from debutant Olly Aspey, With a Burley player injured David played on as it wasn’t a head injury and via Tom, Olly scored much to Burley’s objections. Second half and we dominated, Lowey got a volleyed shot on target! And Tom turned on a six-pence to supply a Yeboah like finish, Olly netted a fourth. Burley put us under some late pressure and did obtain a third but some excellent keeping kept the 3pts.
Game 3 - 21/08/07 League Bramhope 3 - 2 Harlow Nowakowski, Westbury
Harlow travelled the distance to Bramhope, struggling to get a full side out for this midweek clash.
Manager Dave Lowe made the unpopular decision to start the game with only ten men whilst leaving Fran Wilson on the bench in the hope that regular first choice defender Simon Brown arrived not long in to the game. It was a gamble that failed to pay off though as Harlow went behind within the first five minutes.
Harlow were soon up to full strength but only a few minutes later Bramham hit them on the break and made it 2-0 when a wayward cross from Glynn Utting slipped through keeper Ant Lazzari’s hands and into the net. Harlow should have had at least 1 goal back before half time after missing a host of chances, including Andi Pears blazing over the bar from close range after the Bramhope Keeper fumbled a week shot and Dan Harrison connecting well with a header from a corner only to see the ball crash back off the bar. An immediate change saw Kowkski terrorise the Bramham defence and he pulled a goal back calmly slotting home from the edge of the area via Andy Story's heel???. More pressure followed as the fog and darkness decended before Westie with the aid of a deflection from the Bramham wall equalised. Game looked set for 2-2 but in the dying seconds another Harlow defensive debacle let Bramham steal the victory....gutted
Game 2 - 18/08/07 League Harlow 2 - 4 Bedale Jones, Pears
Welcome to the premier league Bedale, here’s 2 goals as a present! Within 3 minutes we were 2-0 down– lack of concentration and poor reactions led to a dreadful start to the season, the second being a howler from Simon as a lucky cross floated over his head into the net. We galvanised and steadily improved through the half, good passing and strong inter play led to mounting pressure. From a pre planned corner Wilkie delivered a pin point ball which Jonesy stooped to firmly head past the keeper to score Harlow’s first league goal of the campaign – major relief that now a haircut can be had! Wilk then delivered another good free kick for Pearsi to rise above the opposition and glance into the net. Half time 2-2 with the promise of further goals to come…unfortunately they ended up being for Bedale as their luck held with a deflected third off Lowey and a scandalous refereeing decision against Fran’s well timed challenge for a decisive pen. Disappointing 4-2 defeat.
Game 1- 07/08/07 Charity cup Boroughbridge 6 - 1 Harlow Mallon
The first game of the season was a tough away encounter against Boroughbridge, new faces and playing positions for some players combined with a poor pre season led to a slow start. B’Bridge dominated the first half winning the majority of challenges and finding space across all areas of the park. We struggled to find accurate passes to feet and surrended the ball too easily. Bridge led 4 – 0 at half time with below par defending and concentration helping them secure a comfortable lead. Second half saw changes and some better football was played in parts, debutant Sean Mallon netting from Wilkie’s pin point corner to stop us from being nilled and a last minute clearance off the line stopped Dave Jones from adding some respectability. Final score was a 6 – 1 defeat with only positives being debut performances from Chris Silverwood and Sean Mallon and a 90 minute run out!
Friendly Game - Harlow 2 - 4 Harlod Styans Pears, Sunley
Last pre season game where players should of been performing for their starting places but 90 minutes of thoroughly disappointing performances see us start the season in hope that things can only get better! Poor passing, no positional play, poor finishing, poor defending and no communication bar the utterly disgraceful barrackings from the subs and supporters. We have to play as a team, support and encourage and respect manager's decisions as to where you are playing instead of being so thoroughly dis-jointed and disappointing. Only the encouraging return to the team from Mr Brown, a strong goalkeeping performance from Simon and Kowkski's and Westie's contributions can be taken as positives. We have a lot to improve.
Friendly Game - Harlow 1sts 2 - 0 Harlow 2nds Jones, Westbury
Full on training game ended in a 2-0 win for the firsts. Morph stroked home with a good finish from the edge of the box and in the second half Westie fired home the decisive strike. All in all a good run out with some promising debuts.
Friendly Game - Eccleshill 3 - 3 Harlow Hill Harrison, Jones, Pears
The friendly kicked off and within 15 seconds we were a goal down! Great start to the season! Lowey avoided the ball and their striker to allow him a free shot on goal - too hammered. We recovered slowly and played some good football - Danny Harrison broke from the midfield to lob the keeper with an excellent finish and then Morph slapped home from the keepers spilled save after Fran's freekick. Eccleshill equalised with a super diving header as we tired. Recki though was in great form making save after save. We took a 3-2 lead into half time with a superb flowing move involving Wilkie and Kowkski down the right ending with Andi Pears firing home. The second half was predominantly uneventful bar a further equaliser for Eccleshill