Posts by Danny Caro

DIV 1 REVIEW

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JC MSFL SEASON 2011/12 ROLL OF HONOUR:
Peter Morrison Trophy: Winners – Hendon Utd Sports Club A, Runners-up: Oakwood
JC Cyril Anekstein Cup: Winners - Hendon Utd Sports Club A, Runners-up: Brady Maccabi A
JC Barry Goldstein Trophy: Winners - UJIA, Runners-up: NW Neasden C
JC MSFL Premier Division: Champions: Hendon Utd Sports Club A, Runners-up: London Maccabi Lions A
Division One: Champions: Oakwood, Runners-up - Brixton Old Boys A
Division Two: Champions: Hendon Utd Sports Club B, Runners-up - Camden Park
Division Three: Champions: Glenthorne Utd B, Runners-up - Shirley Park
Division Four: Champions: Brady Maccabi B, Runners-up - Athletic Bilbaum

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JC MSFL GOLDEN BOOT WINNER
30 goals - Craig Sandford (Glenthorne United B)

Danny Caro's JC MSFL Division One review

Danny Caro — Thu, 24 May 2012 17:53:44 +0100

For many, Oakwood were the surprise package in Division One. But an impressive run over the second half of the season saw them win the race.

1. OAKWOOD
Record: Pl. 16, W. 13, D. 0, L. 3, F. 50, A. 23, Pts. 39
Best result: 3-1 vs Brixton
Biggest win: 6-0 vs Chigwell
Worst result: 5-2 vs Norstar
Clean sheets: 4
Games failed to score in: 0
Best signing: Brad Wine
Star men: Jonny Beilin, Adam Levine
Top-scorer: Jason Lindsay 9
DC Rating: Oakwood were the model of consistency in season 2011/12 and ultimately, this is what won them the title. Having flirted with promotion over the past couple of seasons, they got over the line in style, boasting the division’s meanest defence, as well as scoring in every game. They did not lose a league game after November 27. The Oaks also gave an excellent account of themselves in the cup final, taking Hendon the distance and I expect them to hit the ground running in the top-flight next season. 9/10

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2. BRIXTON OLD BOYS A
Record: Pl. 16, W. 10, D. 1, L. 5, F. 60, A. 27, Pts. 31
Best result: 3-1 vs Brixton
Biggest win: 9-1 vs Harmen
Worst result: 4-3 vs Woodford
Clean sheets: 5
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: George Fierstone
Star man: Jake Doffman, Ben Weinburg, James Kaye, Jamie Kent, Rob Hershkorn
Top-scorer: Jamie Kent 24 (includes goals scored for Brixton B)
DC Rating: One of the teams of the season. John Nitka’s men provided five-star entertainment on a regular basis, in what was a real team effort. Like Big Sam, he promised promotion and his troops delivered in style. They had leaders all across the pitch and did well to finish second in a gruelling campaign that featured four competitions. The Hershkorn brothers, along with the free-scoring Jamie Kent and so many others impressed week in, week out. Like Oakwood, they will be a credit to the Premier Division next season. 8/10

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3. NORSTAR A
Record: Pl. 16, W. 10, D. 1, L. 5, F. 38, A. 33, Pts. 31
Best result: 5-2 vs Oakwood
Biggest win: 5-2 vs Oakwood
Worst result: 2-1 vs Harmen
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: Josh Pistol
Star man: Josh Pistol, Jonny Kay, Jeremy Elster
Top-scorer: Josh Green 15
DC Rating: It was a case of close but no cigar for the Stars who were left dreaming of what might’ve been after missing out on automatic promotion on goal difference. They were the only team to complete a league double over the Oakwood which tells you what they were capable of. As has always been the case, they played the game the right way, with a smile on their face and made many friends along the way. 7/10

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4. CHIGWELL ATHLETIC
Record: Pl. 16, W. 8, D. 4, L. 4, F. 40, A. 33, Pts. 28
Best result: 5-4 vs Brixton
Biggest win: 5-0 vs Harmen
Worst result: 6-0 vs Oakwood
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 2
Best signing: Lee Hyams
Star man: Craig Pearl
Top-scorer: Glenn Michaels 12
DC Rating: Season 2011/12 promised so much for Chigwell Athletic. But in the end a fourth-place finish must be looked upon as a major disappointment. Chairman/manager Richard Slater recruited well last summer, with Lee Hyams and Alex Norman adding quality, experience and brawn, but a poor end to the season left them as also-rans. No doubt, Slater will bring in some new talent over the summer with Faithfold captain Alex Levack once again top of his hit-list. Failure isn’t an option next year. 7/10

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5. REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE B
Record: Pl. 16, W. 8, D. 2, L. 6, F. 38, A. 25, Pts. 26
Best result: 4-2 vs Brixton
Biggest win: 10-1 vs Neasden
Worst result: 6-1 vs Brixton
Clean sheets: 4
Games failed to score in: 3
Best signing: Ollie Brooks
Star men: Ollie Brooks, Harrison Grant, Dan Orgel
Top-scorer: Daniel Orgel 18
DC Rating: It was quite some season for Stirling Kay’s RJC. They set off like a train but injuries to key players left them with too much to do. Had Dan Orgel and Mark Zealander played every day, the season could’ve have a happy ending. Redbridge unearthed some excellent young talent and look to have a very bright future. 7/10

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6. NORTH WEST NEASDEN B
Record: Pl. 16, W. 5, D. 1, L. 10, F. 31, A. 50, Pts. 16
Best result: 5-2 vs Norstar
Biggest win: 5-2 vs Norstar
Worst result: 10-1 vs Redbridge
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 5
Best signings: Ricky Engleman, Rick Harris, Jonny Blain
Star men: Ricky Engleman, Jonny Blain
Top-scorer: Jonny Blain
DC Rating: It was a funny old season for Neasden B. A 5-2 win over Norstar was arguably the highlight of a frustrating season for manager Daniel Hodes who made some bold acquisitions in the transfer market, most notably Ricky Engleman, who lit up the division. Once striker Jonny Blain was back in the fold - after leaving Raiders – the found goals easier to come by. The experience of Rick Harris ensured they were never in real relegation danger. 4/10

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7. TEMPLE FORTUNE A
Record: Pl. 18, W. 3, D. 5, L. 8, F. 23, A. 40, Pts. 14
Best result: 2-0 vs Redbridge
Biggest win: 5-3 vs Woodford
Worst result: 7-0 vs Brixton
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 4
Best signing: Paul Rubenstein
Star men: Benji Mannheim, Matt Gilbery, Brett Stead, Josh Marks
Top-scorer: Michael Goldberg
DC Rating: Consolidation was the name of the game for Fortune and under Lee Fegan and Jack Morris, they achieved their goal, although they suffered from ‘squeaky bum syndrome’ at one point, mainly due to a lack of goals. They were the lowest scorers in the division. There was relief all-round when they beat Woodford in their penultimate game. With a season of Division One football under their belts, there’s no reason why they can’t push on next term, especially if striker Ben Isaacs returns from the treatment table. 4/10

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8. WOODFORD WANDERERS
Record: Pl. 16, W. 4, D. 1, L. 11, F. 29, A. 43, Pts. 13
Best result: 3-1 vs Oakwood
Biggest win: 4-3 vs Brixton
Worst result: 1-0 vs Harmen
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 4
Best signing: Ben Rosenthal
Star man: Mitch Hahn
Top-scorer: Jerome Marks
DC Rating: Great going forward, not so good at the back. That was the story of Woodford’s season. Once ‘corner flag-gate’ was behind them, they gave as good as they got, beating champions Oakwood and runners-up Brixton along the way. They failed to score in the first three matches and didn’t keep a clean sheet all season. Manager Aviram has plenty to think about over the summer … 3/10

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Bottom: SOUTHGATE HARMEN B
Record: Pl. 16, W. 2, D. 3, L. 11, F. 26, A. 61, Pts. 9
Best result: 2-1 vs Norstar
Biggest win: 2-1 vs Norstar
Worst result: 9-1 vs Brixton
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: N/A
Star man: Paul Stein
Top-scorer: Ben Rosenblatt 8
DC Rating: What next for Harmen? That is the million dollar question after both their A and B teams finished bottom of their respective divisions. They had the worst defensive record in the division although managed to score in all but one game. 2/10

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JC MSFL GOLDEN BOOT WINNER
30 goals - Craig Sandford (Glenthorne United B)

Danny Caro's JC MSFL Division Two review

Danny Caro — Thu, 24 May 2012 17:52:01 +0100

There was late drama in Division Two as the Hornets of Hendon upstaged long-time leaders Camden Park. Danny Caro gives a blow-by-blow accounts.

1. HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB B
Record: Pl. 18, W. 13, D. 1, L. 4, F. 62, A. 32, Pts. 40
Best result: 3-1 vs Camden
Biggest win: 7-2 vs Faithfold C
Worst result: 4-0 vs Lions B
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: Ari Nevies
Star men: Tali Nevies, Ari Nevies, RA Noe
Top-scorer: RA Noe 17
DC Rating: At the start of the season, Motty Korman, Hendon’s joint-manager told me that the aim was to “push for promotion”. I took that comment with a pinch of salt, but full credit to the Reds for talking the talk and walking the walk. A crucial victory over Camden Park in the run-in proved decisive as they won the title on goal difference. It was a real team effort, with the Noe brothers forming a rock-solid spine, and with momentum behind them, I expect them to feature strongly in the mix again next season. 9/10

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2. CAMDEN PARK
Record: Pl. 18, W. 12, D. 4, L. 2, F. 52, A. 31, Pts. 40
Best result: 3-2 vs Hendon
Biggest win: 6-1 vs Redbridge B
Worst result: 4-2 vs Lions B
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: Mike Khalastchi
Star men: Mike Khalastchi, Jake Saunders, Richard Silver
Top-scorer: Dan Baneth
DC Rating: With an emphasis on youth, Camden were desperately unlucky not to be crowned champions, having lost fewer games than Hendon B. In the end it wasn’t to be for a team that impressed on a regular basis. They made an excellent start, going 12 games unbeaten, and were the model of consistency from start to finish. With Khalastchi, Jake Saunders and wonder kid Richard Silver catching the eye on a regular basis, the return of Luke Brookner in the latter stages gave them another dimension and assuming they keep him, he will be a big player for them against next season. 9/10

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3. LONDON MACCABI LIONS B
Record: Pl. 18, W. 11, D. 1, L. 6, F. 52, A. 31, Pts. 34
Best result: 4-0 vs Hendon
Biggest win: 4-0 vs Hendon
Worst result: 5-1 vs Glenthorne A
Clean sheets: 4
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: Joel Ruben
Star men: James Gold, Joel Ruben, Max Kyte
Top-scorer: James Gold 21
DC Rating: It would be fair to say that if the Lions had 11 James Gold’s they would’ve won the title. Nicknamed ‘Jimmy Goals’ after a brilliant campaign, Jamie Kyte’s men clicked into gear in the second half of the season and never looked back. A 4-0 win over champions Hendon B was the perfect way to finish an excellent season. And with Raiders A folding, there’s a chance they could go up. Watch this space … 7/10

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4. GLENTHORNE UNITED A
Record: Pl. 18, W. 9, D. 3, L. 6, F. 45, A. 30, Pts. 30
Best result: 7-1 vs Faithfold C
Biggest win: 5-1 vs Lions B
Worst result: 5-1 vs Glenthorne A
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 3
Best signing: Craig Berg
Star men: Gary Tiller, Joe Grant, John Lessem
Top-scorer: Dan Lipman 9
DC Rating: The Thornes will come away from season 2011/12 with many regrets. What if? That will be the biggest question facing the board of directors. What if they’d have had a regular source of goals in the absence of talisman Dan Lipman. There was no disgrace finishing behind Hendon B, Camden and Lions B but the bottom line is they should and so easily could’ve done better. 7/10

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5. FAITHFOLD B
Record: Pl. 18, W. 9, D. 3, L. 6, F. 41, A. 27, Pts. 30
Best result: 2-1 vs Hendon
Biggest win: 6-1 vs L’Equipe
Worst result: 3-3 vs L’Equipe
Clean sheets: 4
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: N/A
Star men: David Grabiner, Leor Harel, Dan Edjelman, Daniel Stock
Top-scorer: Adam Grossman/Dan Hildebrand
DC Rating: It was a decent season for the Superhoops but deep down, manager Rob Shooman will know it could have been better. At the start of the season, assistant-manager Ben Lewis told me that they were gunning for the title, but try as they might, they didn’t have enough over the course of the season. But there were several plus points, including the emergence of Dan Stock as well as the reliable David Grabiner in goal. Leor Harel and Dan Edjelman also came in for praise, although things may have been different had the free-scoring Dan Hildebrand stayed. 7/10

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6. REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE C
Record: Pl. 18 W. 8, D. 2, L. 8, F. 40, A. 44, Pts. 26
Best result: 2-1 vs Glenthorne
Biggest win: 6-2 vs Faithfold C
Worst result: 2-1 vs L’Equipe
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: Hadley Silver
Star man: Doron Weinstein
Top-scorer: Doron Weinstein 21
DC Rating: What Robin Van Persie was to Arsenal, Doron Weinstein was to Redbridge C. Everything he hit turned to goals. The team went on an excellent run between late September and mid-November. However, they struggled for consistency and suffered with injuries to key players over the second half of the season. In the end, they were left dreaming of what might’ve been. 5/10

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7. FC TEAM B
Record: Pl. 18, W. 5, D. 3, L. 10, F. 39, A. 55, Pts. 18
Best result: 2-2 vs Hendon
Biggest win: 6-1 vs L’Equipe
Worst result: 7-1 vs Lions
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 2
Best signing: Adam Goldsmith
Star man: Freddie Marks
Top-scorer: Freddie Marks 8
DC Rating: Ben Simon’s troops made an encouraging start and finish, it’s just the bit on the middle they need to work on! Much like Liverpool, they excelled against the top teams but failed to hit the heights against the others. Entertainment was the name of the game and I expect them to bridge the gap a bit more next season. 4/10

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8. NORSTAR B
Record: Pl. 18, W. 4, D. 3, L. 11, F. 41, A. 58 Pts. 15
Best result: 6-1 vs FC Team B
Biggest win: 6-1 vs FC Team B
Worst result: 5-0 vs Faithfold B
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 2
Best signing: Jono Gaon
Star men: Jono Gaon, Rafi Addlestone, Ian Weinstein
Top-scorer: Jono Gaon 7
DC Rating: The goals against column doesn’t look pretty for Norstar, despite the best effort of keeper Ian Weinstein. A strong end to the season kept them alive and they did well to avoid relegation after a slow start. The emergence of Jono Gaon and development of Rafi Addlestone leads to believe they can look forward to next season with confidence. 4/10

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9. FAITHFOLD C
Record: Pl. 18, W. 3, D. 4, L. 11, F. 31, A. 61, Pts. 13
Best result: 3-2 vs Hendon
Biggest win: 3-2 vs Hendon
Worst result: 7-1 vs Glenthorne
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: David Sherman
Star men: Ben Simons, David Sherman
Top-scorer: Ben Simons 15
DC Rating: It was a tough old season for David Garson and his merry men. On paper they had the players to avoid relegation but despite the best efforts of old war horse Ben Simons, they failed to score enough goals to keep their heads above water. The good news for Faithfold fans is that Garson is determined to get the team back into Division Two at the first time of asking. The gaffer also played his part with some excellent displays in goal. 3/10

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Bottom: L’EQUIPE
Record: Pl. 18, W. 2, D. 4, L. 12, F. 30, A. 70, Pts. 10
Best result: 2-1 vs Redbridge
Biggest win: 4-2 vs Faithfold C
Worst result: 7-1 vs Hendon
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 3
Best signing:
Star man: Andy Burke
Top-scorer: Andy Burke
DC Rating: Least goals scored, most conceded. The table doesn’t lie. Promotion was the target. Relegation was unavoidable in the end. They missed the goals of Jason Miller and the quality of Paul Rubenstein and struggled to replace them like for like. But credit to David Prager and his troops for battling until the very end. 3/10

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>DIV 1 REVIEW

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JC MSFL GOLDEN BOOT WINNER
30 goals - Craig Sandford (Glenthorne United B)

Danny Caro's JC MSFL Division Three review

Danny Caro — Thu, 24 May 2012 17:50:25 +0100

Glenthorne United B were the only team in the JC MSFL to finish with a 100 per cent record this season. Danny Caro reveals how they did it.

1. GLENTHORNE UNITED B
Record: Pl. 16, W. 16, D. 0, L. 0, F. 60, A. 10, Pts. 48
Best result: 4-3 vs Shirley Park
Biggest win: 10-1 vs Hendon
Clean sheets: 8
Games failed to score in: 1
Best signing: Fabio Revieccio
Star men: Jordan Davidson, Adam Shafron, Dan Lassman, Craig Sandford
Top-scorer: Craig Sandford 30
DC Rating: A 100 per cent record. It just doesn’t get better than that. Clean sheets in half their games, they oozed quality from front to back and I expect them to take Division Two by storm next season. If I could give 11/10 I would! Les Invincibles.10/10

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2. SHIRLEY PARK
Record: Pl. 16, W. 12, D. 0, L. 4, F. 84, A. 22, Pts. 36
Best result: 3-0 vs Neasden
Biggest win: 18-0 vs JLGB
Worst result: 3-1 vs UJIA
Clean sheets: 4
Games failed to score in: 0
Best signing: Nicky Plotnek
Star men: Nicky Plotnek, Stefan Benfredj
Top-scorer: Saul Conway 28
DC Rating: Shirley Park had an excellent season to finish runners-up and it’s hard to believe they finished 12 points behind the champions. They will be proud of the fact they finished the season as top-scorers, with Conway and Benfredj filling their boots, while Nicky Plotnek wooed the crowds on a regular basis. They also managed to hit double figures in two matches. I expect them to feature in the Division Two promotion mix next season, but keep Plotnek is key to their plans. 8/10

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3. NORTH WEST NEASDEN C
Record: Pl. 16, W. 9, D. 2, L. 5, F. 49, A. 24, Pts. 29
Best result: 2-1 vs Shirley Park
Biggest win: 12-0 vs JLGB
Worst result: 2-1 vs JLGB
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 5
Best signing: Adam Levene
Star man: Adam Levene
Top-scorer: Louis Taylor 15
DC Rating: Neasden did well to take third place and there was also the added bonus of reaching the JC Barry Goldstein Trophy final, where they lost on penalties. The highlight in the league was beating runners-up Shirley, while the low point was being the only team to succumb to JLGB. The addition of Adam Levine took the team to a new level, while the goals of player-boss Louis Taylor played a big part. Elliot Setyon also chipped in with some crucial goals in what was a solid campaign. 7/10

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4. UJIA
Record: Pl. 16, W. 10, D. 1, L. 5, F. 49, A. 40, Pts. 31
Best result: 3-1 vs Shirley Park
Biggest win: 8-2 vs Blizzard Storm
Worst result: 4-1 vs Neasden
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 0
Best signing: Nick Russell
Star men: Assi Avital, Gavin Sherman, Tony Plaskow
Top-scorer: Assi Avital 20
DC Rating: Started the season with a pair of defeats against Neasden, but finished it on the front foot. But their excellent run to Wingate, for a second consecutive season, finished with a well-deserved pot of gold. Manager Darren Rolfe was rewarded for putting together a strong and experienced squad that took no prisoners. They played football and mixed it when needed, with winners all across the park, with Avital and Sherman excelling at both ends of the pitch, along with the evergreen Plaskow playing his part in the middle of the pitch. 8/10

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5. LOS BLANCOS
Record: Pl. 16, W. 6, D. 3, L. 7, F. 38, A. 40, Pts. 21
Best result: 4-3 vs Blizzard
Biggest win: 6-2 vs Catford
Worst result: 5-1 vs UJIA
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 2
Best signing: Joel Kutner
Star men: Julian Gertner, Josh Cohen, Adam Hersh
Top-scorer: Joel Kutner 15
DC Rating: Los Blancos did OK in their first season in Division Three but deep down I’m sure there will be an under-lying feeling that they could’ve done better. Having lost star man Danny Kon to Hendon, new signing Joel Kutner had an excellent first season but he lacked support in front of goal. Keeper Josh Cohen impressed once more and if they can bolster in defence and midfield, I can see them doing even better next season. 5/10

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6. BLIZZARD STORM
Record: Pl. 16, W. 6, D. 2, L. 8, F. 29, A. 36, Pts. 20
Best result: 2-1 vs Los Blancos
Biggest win: 2-0 vs Neasden
Worst result: 8-2 vs UJIA
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 2
Best signing: Stefan Simons
Star men: Joe Stolerman, Dean Shaw, Adam Speck
Top-scorer: Joe Stolerman
DC Rating: Manager Simon Linden will be haunted by the cup semi-final in what was otherwise a frustrating season. It took them seven attempts to win a game If they can keep the squad together I can see them pushing for promotion next year. 5/10

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7. CATFORD & BROMLEY MACCABI
Record: Pl. 16, W. 4, D. 1, L. 11, F. 34, A. 61, Pts. 13
Best result: 3-2 vs Blizzard
Biggest win: 7-1 vs Hendon
Worst result: 8-0 vs Glenthorne
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 3
Best signing: Jamie Sinai
Star men: Jamie Sinai, Guy Ben Aroya
Top-scorer: Jamie Sinai
DC Rating: It was another testing campaign for the Cats but the rebuilding project continues with a three-pronged management team keeping the team above the danger zone. Enjoyment is the name of the game and I’m predicting an even better return in 2012/13. 4/10

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8. HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB C
Record: Pl. 16, W. 3, D. 1, L. 12, F. 18, A. 62, Pts. 10
Best result: 1-0 vs Catford
Biggest win: 4-3 vs JLGB
Worst result: 10-1 vs Glenthorne
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 6
Best signing: That was the problem
Star man: Mikey Mendelsohn
Best player played against: Nicky Plotnek (Shirley Park)
Top-scorer: N/A
DC Rating: The C’s were unable to replicate the efforts of the club’s respective A and B teams in a forgettable campaign. Eighteen goals in 16 games tells me they struggled to fill the void left by Adam Hersh and if they are to improve next season the hard work starts now. 3/10

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9. TEAM JLGB
Record: Pl. 16, W. 1, D. 0, L. 15, F.15 , A. 91, Pts. 3
Best result: 2-1 vs Neasden
Biggest win: 2-1 vs Neasden
Worst result: 18-0 vs Shirley Park
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 7
Best signing: David Mitchell
Star man: Nick Levene
Top-scorer: N/A
DC Rating: Lest we forget JLGB’s season started with an 18-0 mauling at the hands of Shirley so credit to Rob Silverman and the boys for completing the season, as many other could have shut the blinds and said goodnight several months ago. It was 10/10 for effort and they can come away from a demanding, and at times demoralising campaign, with heads held high. 3/10

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>DIV 1 REVIEW

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JC MSFL GOLDEN BOOT WINNER
30 goals - Craig Sandford (Glenthorne United B)

Danny Caro's JC MSFL Division Four review

Danny Caro — Thu, 24 May 2012 17:48:10 +0100

Brady Maccabi B were one of several new teams in the bottom tier of the JC MSFL. Danny Caro gives his assessment of the champions, along with the best of the rest.

1. BRADY MACCABI B
Record: Pl. 18, W. 15, D. 1, L. 2, F. 77, A. 27, Pts. 46
Best result: 3-1 win vs Bilbaum
Biggest win: 11-0 vs Brixton B
Worst result: 3-1 loss vs Bilbaum
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 0
Best signing: Daniel Harrod, Dan Hildebrand
Star men: James Joseph, Reiss Mogilner
Top-scorer: Daniel Hildebrand 25 (includes 7 for Faithfold)

DC Rating: The most goals scored and the highest number of wins, you will do well to find a manager in Division Four who doesn’t agree that Brady were worthy winners of the title. Josh Dagul’s men were like a breath of fresh air, with captain James Joseph leading by example week after week. Flying winger Reiss Mogilner was another star of the show in what was a real team effort. The mid-season signings of Dan Harrod and Dan Hildebrand ensured they got the job done. As and when cool and experienced heads were needed, they came in the shape of Jerome Colmans and Jonny Meltzer. And already, many people are tipping them next season. 10/10

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2. ATHLETIC BILBAUM
Record: Pl. 18, W. 13, D. 3, L. 2, F. 61, A. 25, Pts. 42
Best result: 3-1 vs Brady
Biggest win: 9-2 vs Boca
Worst result: 4-2 vs Raiders C
Clean sheets: 5
Games failed to score in: 0
Best signing: Jake Gilbert
Star men: Simon ‘the Monk’ Roth, Adam Landes, Ed Green
Top-scorer: Ed Green 18
DC Rating: One of the most improved teams this season, the Baums did exceedingly well to stay in the top two virtually all season and pip SPEC FC to second place. Managed by Mark Pasha and Ed Green, they found a level of consistency that had their fans on the edge of their seats week in, week out. Green and Jake Gilbert popped up with vital goals on a regular basis. They finished 15 points better off than last season and made themselves hard to beat, losing 13 games less than the previous campaign. Hats off to all involved on a memorable campaign, where they scored 9, 8 and 7. 9/10

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3. SPEC FC
Record: Pl. 18, W. 12, D. 3, L. 3, F. 44, A. 18, Pts. 39
Best result: 2-1 vs Brady
Biggest win: 5-0 vs Jewventus
Worst result: 1-1 vs Athletico
Clean sheets: 6
Games failed to score in: 3
Best signing: Ashley Burns
Star men: Ashley Burns, Doug Berlin, Nick Wallis
Top-scorer: Ashley Burns 12
DC Rating: Injury problems hampered the best-laid plans of manager Laurence Conway whose team were a breath of fresh air to the MSFL, their match reports in particular. They used a ridiculous number of keepers but remained in pursuit of a top two finish until the very end. Ashley Burns, Doug Berlin and Nick Wallis were the standout performers in an excellent first season back in the MSFL. 8/10

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4. NORTH LONDON RAIDERS C
Record: Pl. 18, W. 10, D. 4, L. 4, F. 53, A. 25, Pts. 34
Best result: 4-2 vs Bilbaum
Biggest win: 7-1 vs Boca
Worst result: 3-0 vs Athletico
Clean sheets: 5
Games failed to score in: 2
Best signing: Michael Israel
Star men: Matt Keston, Marc Fineman, Ben Hart
Top-scorer: Ben Hart 16
DC Rating: Oli Shorts’ Raiders made an incredible start - winning their first eight games – but they were unable to sustain their momentum and eventually had to finish for a credible fourth place finish in a strong division. Up top, Ben Hart and Toby Katz terrorised defences while Michael Israel added quality in midfield. The team can be proud of an excellent season that arguably didn’t get the prize their form merited. 7/10

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5. FC TEAM C
Record: Pl. 18, W. 9, D. 2, L. 7, F. 48, A. 32, Pts. 29
Best result: 2-1 vs Fortune
Biggest win: 10-1 vs Boca
Worst result: 2-1 vs Jewventus
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 3
Best signing: Ron Sanford
Star men: David Cohen, Dan Rothman, Jamie Breslaw
Top-scorer: David Cohen 11
DC Rating: Hit 19 goals in two games against Boca and proved a real handful in what was a solid first season. Player-manager Michael Myers brought in two top talents in Raiders old boys Rob Sanford and Matt Sheldon, while David Cohen found his feet, reaching double figures in the goal charts. If they don’t go up this summer, I expect them to challenge strongly next year. 6/10

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6. TEMPLE FORTUNE B
Record: Pl. 18, W. 7, D. 2, L. 9, F. 46, A. 43, Pts. 23
Best result: 3-0 vs FC Team
Biggest win: 11-2 vs Brixton
Worst result: 6-2 vs Athletico
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 2
Best signing: Joey Glynne
Star man: Terry Jeffries
Top-scorer: Terry Jeffries 19
DC Rating: Jeffries and Glynne tore up defences on a number of occasions and at one point it looked as though they had the qualities for a top two finish. Failed to win any of their last six games which resulted in an ultimately disappointing mid-table finish. 5/10

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7. JEWVENTUS
Record: Pl. 18, W. 6, D. 2, L. 10, F. 37, A. 48, Pts. 20
Best result: 2-1 vs FC Team
Biggest win: 6-1 vs Brixton
Worst result: 5-1 vs FC Team
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 4
Best signings: Ami Wynbourne, Mike Gill
Star man: Nigel Someck
Top-scorer: Nigel Someck
DC Rating: Player-manager Gabriel John was one of the busiest in the transfer market but his team failed to meet his ambitions on the pitch. They punched well below their weight and that is something the gaffer must address over the summer months. 4/10

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8. ATHLETICO FINCHLEY
Record: Pl. 18, W. 5, D. 1, L. 12, F. 40, A. 52, Pts. 16
Best result: 3-0 vs Raiders
Biggest win: 6-2 vs Temple Fortune
Worst result: 8-5 vs Brixton
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 2
Best signing: Ben Mandell
Star man: Ben Mandell
Top-scorer: Ben Mandell
DC Rating: There was a dramatic improvement at Athletico during the second half of the season which leaves spectators and pundits alike with plenty of food for thought. Athletico fans had value for money with the silky skills of Ben Mandell keeping them on the edge of their seats. It’s onwards and upwards from here. 4/10

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9. BRIXTON OLD BOYS B
Record: Pl. 18, W. 3, D. 1, L. 14, F. 31, A. 86, Pts. 10
Best result: 4-3 vs Jewventus
Biggest win: 8-5 vs Athletico
Worst result: 11-2 vs Fortune
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 6
Best signing: Danny Sherman
Star man: Danny Sherman
Top-scorer: Danny Sherman
DC Rating: Much was expected of Brixton B but ultimately, they failed to deliver. A change of manager failed to have the desired affect and given the success of their illustrious first team, it will be interesting to see what happens next season. 3/10

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10. BOCA JEWNIORS
Record: Pl. 18, W. 0, D. 1, L. 17, F. 21, A. 102, Pts. 1
Best result: 2-2 vs Brixton
Worst result: 10-1 vs FC Team
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 4
Best signing: Jamie Weinrich
Star man: Ryan Monk
Top-scorer: Jamie Weinrich
DC Rating: The only team in the league not to win a game and the only side to concede more than 100 goals. It’s back to the drawing board for Sefton Monk and co. 1/10

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DIV 1 REVIEW

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JC MSFL GOLDEN BOOT WINNER
30 goals - Craig Sandford (Glenthorne United B)

Again, Yossi is last man standing

Danny Caro — Thu, 24 May 2012 13:09:18 +0100

Footballers come and go. Especially Israeli ones, as far as the Premier League is concerned. Following the news that Premier League champions Manchester City released Gai Assulin, national captain Yossi Benayoun is once again the last man standing as the only Israeli in the division. But even his future remains unclear, with Chelsea demanding an answer from Arsenal over the coming days.

Even the staunchest Israeli football fan would admit that breaking into a star-studded City team for whom David Silva, Yaya Toure, Samir Nasri and Gareth Barry played key roles was an unrealistic prospect.

The Championship, as Pini Zahavi says, is a viable option but it would not surprise me if Assulin joins a team in the Bundesliga. The majority of the latest Israel squad plies its trade in Europe, with success stories including Maor Melikson in Poland, and this can only benefit the national team in the long-term.

* The race is on to sign MJSL Player of the Year Bobby Abrams. There’s a strong possibility the striker could feature in both the Manchester League and JC MSFL next season, with Division One champions Oakwood favourites to sign him due to family connections.

Faithfold signed a real gem when they added Alex Kaye, the 2010/12 MJSL winner, from Oakhill Lions and with the club looking to bring in fresh talent this summer, I expect them to put in a bid.

* Jonathan Kurrant is in action for the England national futsal team this weekend.

The Maccabiah star will earn his third and fourth caps in the international friendlies against Denmark at the Mayesbrook Sports Arena in Barking.

Haroldeans vs Broughton

Danny Caro — Mon, 21 May 2012 17:28:30 +0100

Three goals from Bobby Abrams helped MJSL champions Haroldeans hit Broughton for six. Here is the pick of the action. Photos: Chris Tofalos

Tony Cohen Cup final - Crumpsall vs Republic 1st

Danny Caro — Mon, 21 May 2012 17:19:24 +0100

Benjy Silverman and Frenchie Freedman were the marksmen as Crumpsall stunned Republic of Mancunia 1st into submission to lift the Tony Cohen Memorial Cup. Here is the pick of the action. Photos: Chris Tofalos

16th Ladies National Golf Tournament

Danny Caro — Mon, 21 May 2012 16:52:31 +0100

Ninety-one female golfers from 13 teams took part at the 16th Ladies National Golf Tournament at Abridge Golf & Country Club. Here is the pick of the action. Photos: Marc Morris

Cricket scoreboard: May 20

Danny Caro — Mon, 21 May 2012 15:24:02 +0100

Here are the latest results, individual highlights and reports focusing on Jewish cricket teams around the UK.

MIDDLESEX SUNDAY CRICKET LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
North London Muslims 204-5 Neil Lederman 3-28
London Maccabi Vale 1st 205-7 Jeremy Harris 41, Neil Lederman 37 not out, Alex Haffner 35
LMV won by 3 wickets

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SKLP 137 (39.2 overs) Kalpesh 37, Traub 3-15
MAL 83 (33.3 overs)
SKLP won by 54 runs
SEE MATCH REPORT

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GREATER MANCHESTER AMATEUR LEAGUE
Forresters 124
South Manchester Sports 106 all-out
South lost by 18 runs
SEE MATCH REPORT

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Olympic 185 Ray Tammam 46
Manchester Maccabi 120-8
Maccabi lost by 65 runs
SEE MATCH REPORT

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CARDIFF MIDWEEK CRICKET LEAGUE DIVISION THREE
Old Atradians 118-9 (18 overs) Stefan Rollnick (4 wickets)
Cardiff Maccabi 114-7 (18 overs) Neil Schwartz 34, Joe Jacobson 30
Cardiff lost by four runs
SEE MATCH REPORT

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FRIENDLY

Old Parkonian’s Sunday ‘B’ 136-8 (30 overs) Danny Myers 3-18
Chigwell & Hainault Synagogue CC 104 (26 overs)
Chigwell lost by 32 runs
SEE MATCH REPORT

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Godalming 188-6 (40 overs)
Downsiders 190-4 (31 overs) Mikey Tilles 59
Downsiders beat Godalming by 6 wickets

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COLTS
Cockfosters Under 13s 66-5
London Maccabi Vale Cricket Club Under 13s 69-4
LMV won by 6 wickets
SEE MATCH REPORT

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London Maccabi Vale Cricket Club Under 13s 114-2 Gidon Katten 31
Southgate Adelaide Under 13s 96-6
LMV won by 18 runs
SEE MATCH REPORT

Hendon A finish season in style

Danny Caro — Mon, 21 May 2012 10:01:42 +0100

Hendon star Ari Last scored in both games as the Reds finished the season in style. Danny Caro looks back on the final weekend on the JC MSFL season.

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JC MSFL GOLDEN BOOT WINNER
30 goals - Craig Sandford (Glenthorne United B)

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JC MSFL PREMIER DIVISION