Welcome To Ventnor FC
Schools FA Tournament
Ventnor Football Club are proud to announce they are hosting two games from next weeks Under 14's National Schools Tournament.
First up on the "Hallowed Turf" at Watcombe Bottom is East Cornwall v Vale Of Wight Horse which kicks-off at 10.15am on Monday.
VFC add that Schools FA representative Ms Dawn Howard will also be in attendance on Monday. Everyone is welcome. Entrance is FREE and hot drinks & food will be available from the clubhouse from 9.00am.
Its a shame all factions of the FA do not present themselves as honest and open as the Schools FA !! Ventnor FC look forward to welcoming everyone to Watcombe Bottom on Monday.
Note - The second game to be hosted at Watcombe Bottom is on Tuesday, 10.15am Kick-Off with Bridgewater taking on East Riding. Be sure to join us........
Double Delight
Ventnor tasted double delight Saturday as they AGAIN beat local rivals Shanklin FC. Scoreline ended 3-1 but should have been far more !!
Goals from Stuart Barbrook, Carl Jones and top island striker Ross Lacey sealed all the points in a one-sided affair. Match official Mr Ron Groves proved again why he is the best referee on the island bar NONE. Faultless from start to finish and "our sources inform us" he was rewarded with 100/100 ...... a thorough credit to the game of football, welcome at Watcombe Bottom anytime. A relief after recent games !!
Shanklin had the opening 20 minutes but back-to-form keeper Tim Douglas changed everything with his second penalty save in as many weeks. From then on the writing was on the wall. Congratulations to everyone involved ...... much deserved. Bring on Ryde Saints !!
Results Round-Up
A quick look at this weekends results round-up ...... Shanklin heap more misery on relegation contenders Niton humping them 4-0 on the "cows-field" ...... Binstead muster only their fourth win of the 2011/12 season punishing already relegated Newchurch 4-0 ...... West Wight saunter to a 3-0 win over travellers Ryde Saints ...... Steve Lawton and his Brading Town (Res) side send GKN into the drop-zone courtesy of a fine 2-1 win !!
In Div 2 normal service is resumed at East Cowes Vics who shipped eleven without reply at home to Rob Kirbys impressive St Helens BS side ...... "Newport 3rd Team" clumped 4-1 on the council pitch by Pan Sports head nearer and nearer the rightful drop down a division !!
For more news from around the grounds be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com ...... an un-affiliated, un-adulterated and un-restricted view of island football !!
Back With A Bang !!
Ventnor first team came back to form with a bang yesterday turning-over title contenders Oakfield by three goals to two.
Taking the lead 1-0 kind courtesy of a dynamic strike from in-form Kenny Cuthbert we soon found ourselves 2-1 down and under the cosh. Harry Mulholland levelled the scores up at two a-piece with a sreamer but it was Ventnor top goalscorer Stewart Barbrook that netted a sensational bicycle-kick for the crucial third goal and all three points.
Sad thing to report was the consistency of the match referee Mr A Doncaster, poor last year at Brighstone and even worse yesterday. A certain contender for being dropped a level !! Consistently poor in many an opinion.
Website Now Un-Official
This website is now the "Un-Official" website of Ventnor Football Club.
From today any content contained on this site does not come with the permission of the club. The club will not be held responsible for its reports and content forthwith.
Be sure to check back for our first un-affilliated, un-restricted report. www.ventnorfc.com the "Un-Official" website for Ventnor Football Club !!
Hard Fought Point
Ventnor first team show great heart on Saturday coming from 3-1 down to grab a point with a three all draw at home to in-form Ryde Saints. Goals from Dave Sampson, Charlie Urry and one from sub Carl Jones helped seal what may be a crucial point.
Match official Mr Rob Harris was in attendance and showed why he is an ex-premiership referee. In full control he kept mistakes to a minimum and was awarded 75/100 for his troubles. Thankfully a FAR better standard ref than we have had for the past few games !!
Dramatic Cup Upset
Ventnor suffered a dramatic cup upset on Saturday losing 4-1 in the quarter final of the Isle Of Wight Challenge Cup.
With the wind behind in the first half Ventnor couldnt put any distance between themselves and local rivals Niton who ran amok in the second fourty-five running out comfortable 4-1 winners !!
**** Paragraph removed by Hampshire FA ****
With Brading Town first team in the Gold Cup on Tuesday evening be sure to check back for team news !!
Double Blank !!
Ventnor drew a double blank this weekend with the 1st team losing a tight game 1-0 at Westwood Park after a dubious last minute penalty courtesy of Mr Brunt ...... and the reserves lost a scrappy game in the mud 3-1 with Danny Wendes getting the only VFC goal of the weekend.
Next up is the re-arranged Challenge Cup game at Niton, sad bit is that Mr Brunt has replaced Mr Sainsbury as the match official ...... Whats the betting on Niton getting a penalty or Ventnor getting a player sent off ??? Watch this space..........time will tell !!
Normal Service Resumed !!
Ventnor Football Club put on a dominant display on Saturday digging-in to turn over GKN by seven goals without reply !!
A third goal in as many games for Billy Thompson, one from top island striker Ross Lacey a fine strike for Callum Trueman and four from Stuart Barbrook sealed all three points in boggy conditions.
Referee Mr Phillips was sadly very card-happy clocking-up more than six yellow cards as well as sending off the GKN keeper with just seconds to go. Manager Mark Mullholland rewarded him with 68/100 for his services.
Over in combination one a depleted Ventnor reserve side were firmly put in their places by local rivals Shanklin. Score finally ended 5-0. Official Mr Coward was below par and was rewarded 65/100 for his efforts.
News From The Dugout
Brading Town (Res) put seven days on unsettled youngster Jack Hayward who will sign island forms for them today ...... Pan Sports seven day ex-reserve team keeper James Green who has sadly played his last game for Ventnor ...... Oakfield also in the seven-day mix putting a week on in-form Kenny Cuthbert with desires of his services !!
Defender Billy Thompson celebrates a second goal in as many weeks after a three year barren spell and is "Assured" a mention in the forthcoming edition of the IWCP ...... freshly-signed Robert "Afroman" Williamson out for the next week or two with a niggling back injury ...... Graham Parsons hit with another injury set-back and looks out till next season with knee ligament issues ...... Reece Mitchell sidelined for a fortnight, another with knee damage ...... Blaise Franklin out for at least a month with a "Ruptured Something" in his leg !!
News of the Challenge Cup debacle will appear here later with a run-down of the cup draws that took place last night. Be sure to check back later !!
Reserves Hit Top Form
The Ventnor reserves hit top form Saturday stuffing a pittiful GKN (Res) side by five goals to one. A hatrick for Harry Mulholland one from "Mini Gee" and a first goal in 3 years for Billy Thompson wrapped-up all three points without breaking sweat !!
The first team game at Brading Town (Res) which was postponed due to pitch availabillity will be re-fixtured for a date soon to be announced.
Matches this Saturday see the reserves at home to Oakfield and the first team travel to Niton for another league fixture. News of the Challenge Cup game that Niton foolishly called-off on December 17th will feature here this week. We have requested details from the island FA but as of yet have been ignored other than being told to wait for their decision. Hampshire FA are aware of the situation. We again await "Delayed" news from the island FA !!
Weekend Results Round-Up
Taking a look around the grounds ......
Oakfield turn up the heat in the Challenge Cup 1/4 final knocking out Brading Town (Res) 2-1 at "The Lane" ...... division one saw Ryde Saints & GKN bore each other to death in a 1-1 draw ...... Niton travel to Shanklin FC and get whopped 3-0 a scoreline that flattered our local rivals somewhat by all accounts !!
In divison two Osourne Coburg spank Newport "A" by ten goals to three ...... St Helens trounced pitiful Brighstone 5-1 ...... and East Cowes Vics "A" calm down the goals conceeded losing 4-0 at W&B Sports !!
Over in div 3 neighbours Wroxall put six past Shanklin "A" match ended 6-2 after a couple of blunders from Mad Cow keeper "Max" ...... In combi 1 Ryde Saints lay claim to the title beating Oakfield (Res) 8-4 away whilst Newchurch slip nearer the drop courtesy of a 3-0 loss at Binstead & COB (Res).
For more news from around the grounds be sure to check back...........www.ventnorfc.com the home of island football online !!
Good New Year Start
Ventnor first team started the new year in decent nick turning over a very poor looking Newchurch side 6-0 before the game was conceeded by Newchurch management following a nasty leg injury to one of their players.
Two goals from top island striker Ross Lacey, a pair from back-to-form "Spence" one from Stu Barbs and an own goal sealed the fate of the home side.
Our thoughts go out to Ben Radcliffe who left the park with a suspected broken ankle/leg.
Over at Watcombe Bottom Gary Gee, Mark Black and their reserve side put on a dominant display to take a 1-0 lead over the usually awesome West Wight (Res). Knocking the ball about well they kept the lead until two minutes of madness late on saw WW score two goals to take all three points !!
Biggest news of all from the weekend was the return of both Jake Balantyne after a six month ban along with newly signed Robert "Afro-Man" Williamson. The latter looking as good as ever after his absent spell on Spanish shores. Both are warmly welcomed back to VFC. The home of island football.....
Officials for the weekend put on a decent display too. Mr Coward at Newchurch picked up 75/100 for his efforts while Mr Woolley scored an impressive 90/100 from assistant manager Mark Black at Watcombe Bottom.
Challenge Cup Farce
With Niton declaring their own pitch unfit for the December 17th Challenge Cup match they broke a fundamental rule of Island Football. You cannot call-off your own games without the official confirmation of a referee.
An official complaint has now been logged with the Island FA, we await their response which will be made public as soon as it arrives through our door !! Should the resulting punishment be a £10 fine we will take the matter to a higher level !!
Be sure to check back tomorrow for a look ahead to the weekend games as well as all the latest player and club news.
Strong Run Continues
Ventnor's strong league run continued on Saturday when completely dominating a very poor looking Binstead side by four goals to nothing. A brace from Stuart Barbrook, one from Carl Jones and "Another" from super-signing Ross Lacey sealed all three points in boggy conditions. Ex-Premiership referee Mr Ron Groves showed why he should be regarded as the finest official on the island earning himself an astounding 99 out of 100. Professionally faultless from start to finish and the nicest guy anyone could wish welcome to their ground. Top class......
Over with the rezzies and Gary Gee & Mark Black took their young side to W&B and after going 1-0 down within the first few minutes did well to peg the hosts back earning a galant 2-2 draw at the final whistle. Goals "Kind" courtesy of Jake Clifton and Reece Mitchell. Ref Mr Brunt had an eventless game and earned an above average 80/100.
A special mention must go out to first team manager Mark Mulholland who is taking a break due to personal reasons. Everyone at Ventnor Football Club sends him their regards and look forward to having him back at the helm after the festive period. On another note congratulations must go out to first team assistant Paul Atkinson who did an exceptional job as caretaker to "Mank" on Saturday. Well done all........
For team news ahead of Saturdays Challenge Cup match against Niton on the Cows-Field be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com ...... the islands number one footall website !!
Exceptional Performance
Ventnor FC put on an exceptional performance against FC Bournemouth on Saturday. Twice we took the lead only to be pulled back by a resurgent Bournemouth eleven.
Danny Wendes (Apologies) got our first with Ross Lacey getting the second. The game was finely balanced at 2-2 going into extra time but it was Bournemouth that found that vital edge to win the game 5-2.
Match official Mr Paul Phillips was exceptional having complete control in an open and sporting tie. Only "Milkers" managed to find his way into the notebook, but you have to look a long way back to find his last one !!
Island FA president Mr Ken Morris kindly attended and was noted to have said the pitch was in the best condition he had ever seen. A compliment to Hillcroft Turf and the groundstaff at Wyevale.
Following the match Mr Morris presented Ventnor "Man Of The Match" Liam Mulholland with a trophy and a voucher for a meal for two kindly sponsored by The White Hart Inn in Havenstreet.
Next up is Binstead & COB at Watcombe Bottom next Saturday.......weather permitting !!
Welcome To Watcombe
Ventnor Football Club plays host to a number of notable spectators at todays all-important game. President of the Isle Of Wight Divisional FA Mr Ken Morris will be joined by league seceratary Mr Andy Justice for kick-off, both of whom will be choosing the Ventnor FC "Man Of The Match" award.
Others of note today include "Mr Edwards" who travels from Hamilton, Lanarkshire (Scotland) and "Jim" who travels with a group of 25 friends from Fareham, Hampshire for his 60th birthday. Sure to be a decent crowd we look forward to welcoming all-comers !!
All Systems Go !!
All systems are go today as the match has been offcially called-on by assistant official Mr John Hopkinson.
A massive thanks must go out to goalkeeper coach Jez Urry who donated his time and effort this morning forking the soggy patches, you efforts are very much appreciated by all concerned.
We now look forward to welcoming FC Bournemouth to Watcombe Bottom for the first time. Bring it on ..........!!
Match Still On !!
Following an afternoon pitch inspection today the Hampshire Intermediate Cup 3rd round match at Watcombe tomorrow against FC Bournemouth is still on !!
With loads of rain and cloud covering Ventnor for most of the week the game looked in doubt until today. To make 100% certain we have island official Mr John Hopkinson assessing the surface at 9am in the morning.
Be sure to check back in the morning to make sure the match gets the all-important official nod. This site will be updated by 9.30am.
A Look Ahead !!
Ventnor Football Club will attempt to reach the fourth round of the Hampshire Intermediate Cup for the first time in recent history this Saturday when we welcome FC Bournemouth to Watcombe Bottom.
We nearly have a full strength squad to choose from with the exception of Jake Balantyne who returns to mainstream action later in December, and the recently red-carded Harry Mulholland who returns to action in the Challenge Cup second round match at Niton on December 17th.
Match officials covering play are thankfully Mr P Phillips (Freshwater) in the centre with John Hopkinson (Ventnor) on one line with Mr D Thistlewood (Newport) on the other. The game kicks-off at 1.45pm and the clubhouse kitchen and bar will be open from mid-day till everyone leaves !! A free buffet will be available for both teams after the game.
The match has been kindly sponsored by The White Hart Inn in Havenstreet. Ventnor Football Club are kindly sponsored by PEAK Engineering IOW.
The match will be attended by Island Divisional FA boss Mr Ken Morris. A "Man-Of-The-Match" award will be chosen by Mr Morris and a trophy and voucher of a meal for two at the White Hart Inn will be presented to the winner by "El-Presidente" at the end of the game.
Sure to be a thriller either way be sure to get your backsides up to Watcombe on Saturday to cheer on your local team. A free match programme will be available on the day (Thanks To Mr # For His Time & Efforts Making The Match Day Programme Possible, You Know Who You Are. Cheers).
For team news ahead of Saturdays big game be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com ...... the home of island football !!
Results Take Backseat
Saturday results take a backseat this Sunday morning as the footballing world mourns the sudden and tragic death of Wales manager Gary Speed.
The 42 year-old died suddenly this morning (Sunday) at his home in Huntington, Cheshire, the Football Association of Wales stated on their website this morning.
Ventnor Football Club would like to send our condolences out to his family and friends at this very sad time. A devastating loss to the footballing world.
A player of the highest calibre, Speed leaves behind a wife and two children. A minutes silence in his memory will take place before the Bournemouth game next Saturday at Watcombe Bottom.
Gary Speed (1969-2011) - RIP
Ventnor first team lost 5-0 at Northwood SJ and the reserves battered Newchurch rezzies 5-0 at Watcombe Bottom !!
Double Bubble Success
Ventnor Football Club tasted double-bubble success again this week. The first team ripped the heart out of Niton with a dominant 4-0 success. Goals from Ross Lacey, Carl Jones, Callum Trueman & Kenny Cuthbert resigned Niton to having nothing left to play for the rest of this season (except Challenge Cup and a relegation battle).
Sad news from the game was the 21/100 score given to match official Mr Fothergill. A report of his conduct during the game will be drafted and handed in with the scorecards.
A similar fate befell the reserves whom put on a very dominant display to beat a pitiful Binstead (Res) side 2-1. Both goals coming courtesy of top island striker & todays "Man Of The Match" Bill Creighton.
Match official in this one Mr Knight, with a score of 20/100 will also find a report winging its way to the FA for his efforts here. A player down due to a blatant elbow in the eye from ex-Ventnor player Si Crates, saw the official book the Ventnor (Res) captain Blaise Franklin for allowing the concussed player (Scott Lawrence) to leave the field of play for urgent treatment to his head-injury !!
With two other registered match officials in the crowd today our verdict regarding the performance of Mr Knight can be checked and verified by those in officialdom.
Latest Squad News
Top island striker Ross Lacey is struggling with a long-running back problem but soliders on and declares himself fit for tomorrows Gold Cup first round game on the cows-field in Niton ...... Hold-up maestro Stuart Barbrook struggling with fitness after a recent knock in training and star-golfer come football player Conner Knight fails a late fitness test after getting his first call-up to the first team. Suffering from damaged bones in the top of his foot he has been advised to take the next two weeks off !!
Jack Groundsall who was on the wrong end of a studs-up challenge at Binstead recently is expected to be back at training in the next two weeks after suffering from an over-lapped muscle ...... rezzie keeper James Green out "long-term" with knee ligament damage. Projecting a February return for our talented young shot-stopper ...... Scott Lawrence gets the all clear to start playing again after suffering knee damage in training two months back. Rezzies sure to be far stronger with "Poker Ace" Scott in their ranks !!
Only one (Harry Mulholland) missing from tomorrows side travelling to Niton so a nigh-on full strength side searching for second round glory. To find out what happens be sure to check back ......
Striker Transfer Complete
Ventnor Football Club are proud to officially announce the transfer of Charlie Urry from divisional rivals Brading Town. The papers and payment went in last night and the youngster will be available for the rezzies this week at home to Binstead & COB (Res).
For more player news ahead of this weekends Gold Cup match at Niton be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com the islands most popular football website !!
Double Delight !!
Ventnor Football Club tasted double delight this afternoon as both side won crunch ties against tough teams.
The first team travelled to Shanklin and thoroughly deserved to leave with all three points courtesy of a cosy 2-1 win. Goals from star-striker Ross Lacey and work-horse Danny Wendes sunk the hearts of our local rival, who can count themselves very lucky not to have conceeded far more. Star defender Bill Thompson must get a mention as he "again" showed Shanklin what they intend putting seven days on, this time marking top island striker Dan Hatcher out of the game !!
Gary Gee & Mark Black guided the reserves to a shock win turning over Brading "A" by one goal to nil. The crucial goal came courtesy of Reece Mitchell, who could of had plenty more. Martin Barrow must get a mention for a stand-out performance in the reserve team ranks. A player destined for better things ??
A Look Ahead ......
Taking a look at this weekends matches ...... Binstead host GKN in what must be the bore of the day ...... Cowes Sports (Res) will struggle to hold current form when they host league leaders Northwood SJ ...... Newchurch travel to Niton and will do well to leave the cow-field with anything !!
Match of the day is definately the Oakfield/West Wight encounter, Taylor v Bridges. Luv it. JT by a distance ...... Ryde Saints host Brading Town (Res). Anyones guess in this one as Brading, with Stevie Lawton back at the helm may struggle again with players ...... We travel to Shanklin. Always a tough one !!
So Long Champ !!
The world of sport is in mourning today following the loss of ones of boxings all time legends. "Smokin" Joe Frazier. The first man to ever beat the greatest Muhammad Ali lost his long hard battle against liver cancer early yesterday.
RIP - Smokin Joe Frazier
Forever remembered for the fight know as "The Thriller In Manilla", Smoking Joe ranks right up there with the very best fighters the world has ever seen. His final record (W32-L4-D1) confirms his legendary status in boxing history.
VFC pays hommage to the great man and send our condolences out to his family & friends at this tragic time. Boxing has lost one of its sons.
"Smokin" Joe Frazier - RIP
Another Home Draw
Ventnor Football Club have been handed another home tie in the Hampshire Cup. Visitors on December 3rd will be FC Bournemouth with the winners getting a slot in the fourth round.
Other island sides involved Northwood SJ host Nursling FC, West Wight host either Yateley Green AFC or Hayling Utd and East Cowes Vics (Res) should they overcome Lyndhurst this Saturday will travel to Tadley Cavella.
In the Hampshire Junior "A" Cup third round Northwood SJ are at home to Heathpark FC, Pan Sports travel to Andover New Street Swifts and Sandown host Hedge End Rangers.
Be sure to check back later this week where we will have news regarding our opponents in the next round FC Bournemouth. Only at www.ventnorfc.com the home of island football !!
Hampshire Cup Draws
The draw for the 3rd round of the 2011/12 Hampshire Intermediate Cup is being made as this article goes live, results of when,where and "who got who" will be published here later today.
News of the Hampshire Junior "A" Cup draw involving island teams will also be published here later today, so be sure to check back !!
Results Round-Up
Northwood SJ & WW join Ventnor in the Hampshire Intermediate Cup 3rd round courtesy of 3-2 and 1-0 wins respectively ...... Neighbours Wroxall get stuffed out of sight by travelling Headley Utd in the 2nd round of the Hampshire Junior "B" Cup, final score in that one 1-7 ...... Brading Town "A" put up a spirited performance considering recent problems losing a 5-3 thriller at mainland side Broughton !!
Over in division one bottom sides Binstead and Newchurch share the spoils in a 0-0 bore draw ...... Oakfield do the talking on the park and not the pub, destroying "Over-Rated" Niton 8-2. A suprise considering what some from Niton said what they were going to do at Oakfield today (LMFAO) ...... Shanklin surge back to form obliterating Ryde Saints 7-1 ...... division three saw newly formed Holmwood Athetic turn-over a dire Wakes side 10-0 !!
In combination football Niton (Res) add insult to injury to Wakes beating their reserve side 11-0 ...... Sandown (Res) turn back the clock knocking seven past Carisbrooke Utd (Res) without reply ...... no other worthwhile results to report on !!
A Class Above !!
Ventnor Football Club made short work of Fair Oak FC in the Hampshire Cup second round this afternoon. Two up at half time and cruising we let a stupid goal in just after half time to bring the game to 2-1, but that was as close as they got. Ventnor showed sheer class by upping the tempo smashing in a further five goals in the second half making the final scoreline 7-1 !!
A brace from Ross Lacey, two from "Super Sub" Stuart Barbrook a classic corner-goal from Liam Mulholland a solitary goal from "Spence" and a "goal & dance" by Harry Mulholland sent the lads into the third round draw, and boy did they deserve it !!
Referee Brian Haywood was in full control for the ninety minutes during which he didnt find the need to reach for his cards once. First team manager Mark Mulholland scored him 76/100 for his efforts in this one.
Be sure to check back during the week to find out who we get in the third round draw. www.ventnorfc.com the islands most popular football website !!!
Game On !!
After a virtually dry night, todays Hampshire Intermediate Cup game at Watcombe Bottom against Fair Oak FC gets the all-important go ahead.
With morning dew covering the hallowed turf the surface is very wet, but with no apparent danger to players the game gets the nod for the 2pm kick-off.
Match referee Mr Haywood has been informed as have our opponents who we will welcome to Watcombe later this morning.
Be sure to check back for a full match report with photos. Good luck the lads............and the pitch !!
Latest Player News !!
Ventnor Football Club will announce the imminent transfer of another top island striker in the next few days. Following up the scoop in VFC picking up Ross Lacey in recent weeks we will this week add to the ranks with another goal-machine hungry for division one glory.
On the negative side Ventnor FC this week signed away reserve teamer Reece Burtenshaw to Binstead (Res) after a personal request from the amiable young character to switch clubs. We wish him well with his move as we do Jamie Treadwell who has signed for local rivals Niton, sure to serve them well the talented young star will be severely missed at Watcombe Bottom.
With regards to players coming back from injury Scott Lawrence looked to be coming to the boil at training Tuesday night at Ventnor Middle School. Other of note who look to be coming back to top-form are Ex-Cowes Sports first teamer Graham Parsons and defender Blaise Franklin who both continue to impress in training.
For more news from Watcombe Bottom be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com ...... the islands number one soccer website !!
Pitch Inspection !!
After the recent deluge of rain tomorrows game at Watcombe Bottom against mainland side Fair Oak FC will have to pass a morning pitch inspection.
Fine for training on Tuesday evening the game was first put in doubt this afternoon when one of the groundsmen at Watcombe indicated the pitch was waterlogged through centre section.
Following a pitch inspection by referee Mr Hopkinson at 2pm it was decided that a final pitch inspection will have to take place in the morning to pass the pitch fit to play on.
An announcement will be made on www.VentnorFC.com in the morning with the very latest news. Be sure to check back !!
Weekend Results Round-Up !!
Steve Lawton and his Brading Town troops struggling with injuries & cup-tied players fell foul of an ordinary looking Moneyfields side 3-0 in their second round Hampshire Intermediate Cup tie ...... Congratulations to Rob Kirby as St Helens BS turned-up the heat stuffing Newport "A" 7-1 in the Memorial Cup first round !!
In the island leagues divsion 1 leaders Northwood SJ hit four past struggling Newchurch, game ending 4-1 ...... Binstead & COB get even more glued to the foot of the table as they get hit for six by Cowes Sports (Res) 6-2 the final result ...... pre-season favourites West Wight struggle to overcome Shanklin 3-2 but still got the job done !!
Over in combination football Brading Town "A" struggle with the fallout from the 1st team and the reserves player problems and get beat 3-0 at home to Osbourne Coburg ...... Ryde Saints (Res) hit eleven without reply past a struggling GKN (Res) side ...... Binstead (Res) show why they should all replace their first team as they dominate in their 3-0 win at Oakfield.
Very Expensive Paperbacks !!
The rule (as written in the official handbook !!) states that as an affiliate partner of the Isle Of Wight FA we (the clubs) "MUST" buy FOUR copies of the annual divisonal FA handbook !! Total cost £50 plus £12 affiliation fee !!
It is simply ridiculous that the £50 is invoiced as "Stationary Re-Charge". Do they think we have gone mad ??
When pressured about the outragous price we were firstly given a "Postage Charge Increase" excuse, and then when realising we had actually collected the bloody things we were then waffled to regarding the cost of the post cards for match results and pads of team sheets.
For real ............ ??
Can someone in the heirachy please justify the prices we are charged for these needless items and clarify exactly what the £50 from each club is spent on as we find it impossible to believe the four paperback handbooks (with paid for advertising inside), two teamsheet pads and a handfull of postcards we "Supposedly" got this year cost anywhere near £50.00. Please also explain why clubs MUST have four of the damn things !!
Suspensions & Fines !!
A note for all players. Fines for cards "Must" be paid within 7 days of being issued. Fines that are unpaid after 7 days are automatically doubled by the FA !
Player suspensions and fines to note ...... Jake Balantyne banned untill 13/12/2011 for violence conduct against an official and then 14/12/2011 till 21/12/2011 for two yellows and a red in the fateful match that got him banned ...... Harry Mulholland banned for three matches from 12th November for Violent Conduct. Fine unpaid & due to double on Wednseday !!
Striker Carl Jones fine for yellow card (Unpaid), due to double on Wednesday. Jack Hayward outstanding fine for yellow card due to be paid before Saturday. Defender Blaise Franklin due for club suspension Friday, unpaid club debt the cause of this one !!
To a void your fines increasing all players that owe are advised to bring their payment to training on Tuesday at Watcombe Bottom. You have been warned !!
Next Up Fair Oak !!
Next up for the Ventnor first eleven is Saturdays second round Hamshire Intermediate Cup match against Magnata Care Hampshire League 2004 side Fair Oak FC.
With no new suspensions for either club to worry about both should field full strength sides. Both side come off the back of decent wins but with home advantage it will be VFC that will be looking for the third round slot with eager eyes !!
Other games featuring island sides see Northwood SJ host Cutbush Athletic, West Wight have got Fleet Town at home and East Cowes Vics (Res) face Shanklin conquerors Lyndhurst away !!
For more news on Saturdays game be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com. The islands most popular football website !!
Non-League Traveller !!
Ventnor Football Club had the priviledge of welcoming a rather special guest to Watcombe Bottom at the weekend. Pensioner Les, a Wealdstone Utd steward made the lengthy treck from Watford on Saturday to attend the Ventnor/Niton game and was treated to a match of the most watchable kind.
Having previously visited 993 non-league football clubs before Saturdays game, Les told VFC his efforts to reach the 1000 club milestone will be achieved this week when he travels to Truro in cornwall for their mid-week game in the southern league.
Everyone at Ventnor Football Club wishes him well in his epic challenge. It was an honour to have you in attendance & we hope your jouney home was a safe one.
Lacey Opens His Account
A Ross Lacey goal on sixteen minutes earned Ventnor all three points Saturday against a tough Niton side. Fast out the blocks we were quick to dominate the opening half an hour. Harry Mulholland smashed one against the bar from 25 yards before new signing Lacey knocked in a lovely cross from close range for a deserved 1-0 lead.
To their credit Niton fought straight back but lacked a finishing touch. Pushing us all the way to the final whistle our closest neighbours looked a pretty decent side.
Noteworthy Ventnor players from the game were Billy Thompson who seems to get better with age and is playing some of the best football of his life right now. Dave Sampson was another that looked in fine fettle as well as keeper Tim Douglas who pulled off a spectacular save to keep all three points at Watcombe
Match official Mr Sainsbury had a suprisingly straight forward game without the need to reach for a card of any colour. First team manager Mark Mulholland scored him 81/100.
Player News !!
News from the players bench ...... Defender Si Crates signs for his uncle at Binstead (Res) ...... Jamie Treadwell asks for a transfer to Niton in hope of some 1st team action ...... reserve team keeper James Green out of action for at least four months with nasty knee injury !!
Ex-Wroxall manager Jez Urry signs 2011/12 season forms to secure up the problem in the reserve team net ...... Scott Lawrence out of action for at least another six weeks with another knee injury ...... Jack Groundsell sidelined for a further two weeks due to a dangerous studs-up incident at Binstead recently !!
On a brighter note new star signing Ross Lacey looked sensational in his first start for Ventnor at West Wight hitting the bar with a screamer from long-range. Watch this space as Lacey looks nailed-on for a hatrick some game soon !!
More Injuries At WW !!
Ventnor first eleven were unlucky to walk away on the wrong end of a 2-0 defeat at West Wight on Saturday. Rampant from twenty minute in it didnt take long for West Wight to cause "More" shocking injuries to a Ventnor player, this time wrecking the season of Nathan Mursell who now sports a plaster cast from the middle of his thigh to the middle of his foot !!
It was clear we had the "Odd-Bods" from half the island in panic mode. The usual top-class Adam Miller was snubbed out by a dominant Callum Trueman, Bridges probably noticed a certain Ventnor player was on the park and didnt fancy his chances against someone tougher and their "Usually Cool" manager was shouting abuse at his players for much of the second half !!
It is now blatantly obvious to all that things are not quite right at WW. They looked a shadow of the side we faced this time last year. Watch this space for the reverse fixture at Watcombe, sure to be another hard-fought classic !!
Star Signing Completed !!
Ventnor Football Club have finally completed the signing of top island striker Ross Lacey from GKN. Having agreed terms the talented young star put pen to paper last night and his forms submitted immediately, making himself immediately available to face West Wight this Saturday.
VFC have also completed the signing of Oakfield toughie Grant Watt, who also puts himself in line for a start this weekend in the reserve game at home to Shanklin.
For more player news be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com ...... the most popular football website on the island bar none !!
On The Brink
Ventnor Football Club are on the brink of signing unsettled top island striker Ross Lacey from GKN. The formal seven day approach has been sent to GKN allowing VFC to make an approach next Tuesday evening.
After putting us firmly in our places in the second round of the 2011 Challenge Cup, Lacey has been unsettled at both GKN and Northwood SJ since that dynamic display and made contact with Ventnor FC this week asking for us to sign him and end his current situation.
Confirmation of the signing will appear hear next Tuesday night. For more news be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com the home of island football !!
Weekend Results Round-Up
Niton thump league leaders Northwood SJ 3-1 at home ...... Brading Town (Res) surge back to form stuffing Binstead & COB 6-0 at "The Lane" ...... title favourites West Wight destroy GKN 6-1 out in the sticks !!
Ryde Saints continue their fine running walking away from Newchurch with all three points courtesy of a 6-0 drubbing ...... Our first team lose ground on the title losing 4-1 at Watcombe ...... Shanklin pick up all the points via a tidy 4-0 win over Cowes Sports (Res) !!
In div one Seaview continued misery at East Cowes Vics "A" smashing in "Sixteen goals without reply ...... Pan slump 3-2 at Sandown ...... Wroxall turn the screw on Rookley pulling off a shock 6-0 victory !!
For more news from around the grounds be sure to check back soon.
Hampshire Cup Draw
With only five island side remaining in the Hampshire Intermediate Cup after Saturdays set of first round fixtures Ventnor FC have been handed a tough-looking home tie against Southampton based side Fair Oak FC !!
Of the other island sides Brading Town (Res) were handed the toughest draw of all island sides having to travel to high-profile Moneyfields. West Wight got Fleet Town at home. Northwood SJ play Cutbush Athletic while East Cowes Vics (Res) have to travel to Shanklin conquerers Lyndhurst.
All the island cup matches will be played on Satuday 5th November. Kick-Off set for 2.00pm. Check back soon for more news on this weekends matches.
Weekend Results Round-Up
Far from a "Cows Field", Niton produced a pitch and a performance to rival many island sides. Battling from the off Niton swiftly went 3-0 up only to be dragged back by Steve Lawtons depleted Brading Town (Res) side in the closing stages. Penalties going the way of Brading 6-5 ...... West Wight struggled to overcome Horndean (Res) 2-1 in extra time ...... Lyndhurst shook-off Shanklin two goals to one at the county ground while Northwood SJ continued to impress traveling to the mainland turning-over Portsmouth RN 1-0 !!
Kyngs Town walked into the second round of the Hampshire Junior "B" Cup courtesy of Southsea FC folding ...... Newly formed island side Vectis Nomads done a job on DCP United running out 14-0 winners while West Wight (Res) went down 3-2 at Redhill Rangers in the Junior "A" Cup ...... Wroxall turned on the style winning 4-2 at Hamble Utd though Cowes Sports (Res) were not as lucky getting stuffed 5-1 at Hampshire Premier League side QK Southampton !!
In the island leagues Pan Sports heaped more misery on East Cowes Vics walking away with a 13-0 success ...... while in the same division (2) Rob Kirby and his St Helens BS squad also continued their rich vein of form hammering Shanklin VYCC 4-0 at home !!
Weekend Cup Predictions
Taking a glance at the other Hampshire Intermediate Cup fixtures this weekend ...... Niton should be taught a "Higher Division" lesson on the "Cows Field" by Steve Lawton and his high-flying Brading Town (Reserves) ...... Oakfield face tougher opposition than of late when hosting Hampshire Premier League side Fleetlands FC, tough call but Oaklands may be strong enough by the odd goal (not seventeen!!) ...... Shanklin will struggle to beat Lyndhurst even at the county ground. Maybe a suprise 1st round exit for the island side ?!
Both GKN & Cowes Sports (Res) have to travel to Southampton facing BTC Southampton & QK Southampton respectively. Neither may be strong enough to grab a second round slot ...... With the defeat of WW by Northwood last week, West Wight may again struggle for a result. Horndean (Res) may just nick into round two at the Island League Champions expense ...... Most interesting match may be the Bournemouth Sports versus Ryde Saints game. Bournemouth may be hot favourites but "The Saints" look a very strong fancy from our angle !!
More news from around the grounds tomorrow. Be sure to check back !!
Prospect Withdraw !!
At the very last minute Prospect FC have withdrawn from this weeks 1st round of the Hampshire Intermediate Cup. Having confirmed the match by txt earlier in the week they have now withdrawn their side from the tournament !!
Through to the second round but not in the fashion we would have liked. Obviously they didnt fancy their chances with a weakend side !!
So no match at all for Ventnor FC this weekend. Be sure to check back for our verdict on the weekends other games.
Bright Propects !!
Prospects of a Ventnor victory this weekend look bright as six Prospect FC players are sidelined due to suspensions. With no injury worries or suspensions for us we head into the game with a full strength side.
Due to lack of management the reserve team game this weekend at Tron FC has been conceeded. Apologies to all the players involved in this one. We cannot walk into a competitive match such as that with a depleted team and no management appointed. Apologies go out to Tron FC, we wish you well in the second round.
For more news on the Prospect FC game be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com.
Club Policy Reminder
In light of recent issues at the club all players are reminded that it is club policy that those who go training will be selected ahead of those that dont.
Everyone should note this policy is in place at all top island sides. It is a pure and simple case of fairness to all, not just a select few !!
A copy of all club policies will now be on display on the notice board from the Prospect FC game, as will a copy of the club constitution.
Weekend Results Round-Up
Result of the weekend has to be the seventeen goals Oakfield put past a poor looking Binstead side. Final score 17-0 !! ...... Northwood & SJ show the mighty West Wight they aim to take their crown winning 2-1 against the current league champions ...... Ryde Saints continue to dominate their games pulling off a stunning 5-2 win over local rivals Niton !!
Steve Lawton and his Brading Town (Res) side keep tabs on the top of the table beating Shanklin 4-2 at "the lane" ...... Over in div 2 Rob Kirby and his ressurgent St Helens side stick thirteen past East Cowes Vics "A" without reply ...... Div three saw both new sides register impressive wins with Holmwood Athletic winning 6-0 at Shanklin "A" & Vectis Nomads smashing Wayne Sheath lead Rookley 9-1 !!
First Team Class
Ventnor first team showed their true class yesterday afternoon when coming back from 2-0 down to finally edge GKN by four goals to three !!
A brace from "Back To Form" striker Carl "Spence" Jones and a pair from sub Stuart Barbrook earned all three points and put Ventnor right back up the table.
After being left firmly in the lurch by the management in mid-week the reserves were taught a lesson at the hands of Ryde Saints. Not much to say on this one ...... but please remember this side was put together by those that are now not at the club. Until the reserves are reformulated the results will not be going our way !!
For more news on next weeks visit of Portsmouth side Prospect FC be sure to check back to www.ventnorfc.com ...... the islands most popular football website !!
