Match of the day sees league leaders Faithfold A travel to Rowley Lane to take on London Maccabi Lions A with striker Michael Pearson returning to his former club. Danny Caro looks ahead to all the big match action on Matchday 14 of the JC MSFL season.
----------------------------------
POLLOCK ANNOUNCES MACCABIAH SQUAD
----------------------------------
DANNY CARO'S MATCHDAY 13 OSCARS
GOAL OF THE WEEK - SHAI DAVIDI
QUOTE OF THE WEEK - RICHARD JAYE
JC SAVE OF THE WEEK
Max Shields (Lions A)
JC SUPER-SUB OF THE WEEK
Dan Orgel (Temple Fortune A)
JC REFEREE OF THE WEEK
Henry Raffe (North London Raiders B vs FC Team B)
----------------------------------
PETER MORRISON TROPHY ROUND 3 DRAW
JC CYRIL ANEKSTEIN CUP ROUND 3 DRAW
---------------------------------
YOUR WEEKEND PREVIEW STARTS HERE:
JC CYRIL ANEKSTEIN CUP ROUND THREE
CATFORD & BROMLEY MACCABI vs REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE A
I’ve heard rumours that Catford & Bromley manager Lester Jacobs will invite his troops round for pizza and a shandy on the eve of the game as he shares with them exclusive JC footage of the giants that are Redbridge Jewish Care A.
The Cats have nothing to lose as they go in search of what would be one of the biggest ever upsets in the history of Jewish football. Think Sutton United vs Coventry City, Wimbledon vs Liverpool, this would top the lot for me.
For sure, they will lay on the red carpet to the Redbridge boys before the game, but captain marvel Adam Luria told me they will go hell for leather once that first whistle blows.
“We’ve got a decent team available despite another host of absences (as usual). Jonny Lee, Yonni Bord and Ash Stokes are players who would get into most teams in the MSFL, so we've got players who will be looking to prove they can do it against the top teams.
“We’re looking forward to the game and I’m sure it’ll be tough and Redbridge will be a very strong team.
“We know that no one-will give us a chance, but when's all said and done, it's still just Sunday football so play it right, make it a battle and you never know...”
They don’t come much bigger than RJC – a team who are determined to win some silverware this season. Manager Eilon Kennet has his troops firing on all cylinders at present and they will surely have too much for their second division opposition.
Striker Adam Stolerman is looking forward to making hay in the, er, well mud, but the groundsman at Norseman FC has told me that he’s preparing a carpet. That will only play into the hands of a strong Redbridge team for whom confidence is sky high following wins over Hendon and Lions.
RJC boss Eilon Kennet told JC Sport: "It's a shame last week's game was cancelled, so we're looking forward to Sunday and the opportunity to carry on with our good run even more than usual.
"Also, we didn't acquit ourselves very well in this Cup last season, so it's a chance to redeem ourselves. Catford aren't going to make it easy for us, that's for sure.
"Everyone always get fired up for cup games and everyone wants a big scalp and Catford will be no exception, so we need to be focused and ready to match them physically.
"It would be nice to have a good cup run. Let's hope it starts on Sunday against Catford."
In terms of a prediction, romantics look away now as I can only see one winner.
Venue – Norseman FC, Ref – Martin De La Fuente
JC star man: Richie Caplin (RJC)
DC Prediction: Catford 0 Redbridge A 3
----------------------------
JC MSFL PREMIER DIVISION
TOP-SCORERS
11 - Lee Cash (LM Lions A - 10 for Neasden A)
9 - Adam Stolerman, (Redbridge JC A), Daryl Phillips (Faithfold A)
BRADY MACCABI A vs NORSTAR A
Sunday can’t come soon enough for a Brady team still reflecting on their classy comeback against Brixton last Sunday.
The signs looked ominous early doors as they went two goals down, but a hat-trick from Jonathan Green inspired them to a 5-2 victory. Manager Joel Nathan singled out midfield maestro for special praise and he’s the man Norstar will fear on Sunday.
It was also good to see summer signing Rob Lerner put in arguably his finest display since joining the club. The only thing missing from Lerner’s armoury at present is goals, but I believe chances will come his way this weekend.
Looking ahead to the game, Nathan told JC Sport: “Having put in a great second half performance last week, we will look to continue where we left off against a good Norstar team who for me have been unlucky this season, especially after watching the end of their game last week which they deserved to come away with something.
“Yes we have played them this season, but the guys will be taking nothing for granted because we know they will give us as stern test, but I do feel we are now starting to find our feet and feel we are ready to take on anyone.”
Of course, Nathan was referring to Norstar’s 3-2 defeat against Lions A at the Lane. Manager Phil Peters was proud of his troops after they gave a strong Lions team a real scare and he’ll be hoping for a change of fortune on Sunday.
It’s now no wins in nine for the Stars, but it was great to heart referee Richard Jaye offer some words of comfort and encouragement post-match.
With Peters at the helm, you can be sure Norstar will always try to play the game the right way, and with a smile on their faces, whatever the outcome.
But Brady have the bit between their teeth right now and I can see them registering a second consecutive win on Sunday.
JC team news: Brady are still without Jordan Nathan and Nicky Smith, while Joel Lassman is a major doubt, but they welcomed back Josh Gordon last week along with new signings Dan Green and this week they have added Zach White to their ranks.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – Martin Lavender
JC star man: Rob Lerner (Brady)
DC Prediction: Brady A 2 Norstar A 0
----------------------------
BRIXTON OLD BOYS A vs FC TEAM A
It’s hold on to your hats time in Barrowell Green on Sunday as Brixton look to bounce back from last week’s 5-2 defeat against Brady when they host FC Team.
It was all going so well for John Nitka’s men until captain Ed Weisz was sent off. Goals from Nick Kenton and Weicz had put them in the box seat until a rush of blood from the captain.
I’m predicting a high-octane affair against an FC Team side who will be sure to give as good as they get in the all-important midfield engine room.
Ben Weinberger was the star man in the previous meeting when Brixton claimed an impressive 4-2 victory in what Nitka described as a “top-class performance” and given their record at home this season, FC Team will need to be on top of their game.
Mitch Young’s men have failed to string back-to-back league wins together this season, but they have a real opportunity on Sunday against a Brixton side who are leaking goals.
There will be big battles all over the park and it could all boil down to survival of the fittest.
Venue – Clowes, Ref – Steve Levy
JC star man: Jake Doffman (Brixton)
DC Prediction: Brixton 2 FC Team A 2
----------------------------
HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB A vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS A
Hendon hit Raiders for six earlier this season when summer signing Jacob Gold came back to haunt his old club. And the bad news for L’Orange is that their former pace ace is back to face them again.
Having already beaten the division’s other team who play in orange, David Garbacz’s men go in search of what would be their second league double, and the signs look encouraging according to the manager.
Gaffer Garbacz told JC Sport: “Sunday is the type of bread and butter league match which we simply must come away from with three points. With all due respect to Raiders who on their day can be a fine team capable of beating anyone. We had the measure of them early on in the season and we know what we have to do to keep within range of the top.
“With the weather forcing last week’s clash against Faithfold to be postponed, it is vital we go into the game fresh and full of vigour and with the right attitude.
“It will be a blow to be without Josh Lipman this week, but apart from him the squad is looking quite strong now and we should be well equipped to start upping the ante a bit come the second half of the season.
Raiders have blown hot and cold this season, but manager Rob Richman is confident they have a big performance up their sleeves.
Thumped 7-1 by Faithfold last time out, he will expect a big reaction from his troops.
“The last few weeks have been a little bit stop-start and we are just hoping that the weather eases off and the game is played on Sunday,” Richman told JC Sport.
“Hendon are quite obviously a very talented side and when we played them earlier this season we weren’t really at the races and as such got punished. We will be looking for a much-improved display this weekend.”
I can see Gold and Greg Corin stealing the show on Sunday.
JC team news: Hendon are missing MSFL Player of the Year Josh Lipman, who is away for a week, while Alex Gilbert is still two weeks away from full fitness . The champions are otherwise back to full-strength with Jacob Gold returning.
Raiders have announced a fully fit squad.
Venue – Hadley FC, Ref – Aaron Djanogly
JC star man: Ben Kon (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Hendon 3 Raiders 0
----------------------------
LONDON MACCABI LIONS A vs FAITHFOLD A
Few people could’ve predicted the flying start made by Faithfold pre-season - not even the most devout Superhoops fan, if they are being honest – but they are where they are and it appears nobody can stop them. They have done everything asked of them and show no signs of slipping up.
Zuriel Solomons’ side are rightly getting a lot of plaudits. They play nice football and use a system that works, have flair players who create chances and are good defensively. And the return of Mike Pearson can only help them.
The Greens have been the model of consistency so far, with just one defeat in eight league matches. They have found a winning formula and Pearson will only make them a better team. But their title credentials face a massive test at the Lane on Sunday.
Looking ahead to the match of the day, Solomons told JC Sport: “Sunday will be a tough match against a reformed Lions team who have made some good signings, so it should be an interesting game, with the added spicy ingredient of Mike Pearson returning.
“I am sure they are out to seek a bit of revenge from our last outing and we will respect a good Lions team. We should have a full squad this week so places are up for grabs.
“We will be up for it and as I have said before if the boys are focused and on it then we will come away with the right result.”
Lions were made to sweat by Norstar last Sunday, especially after Cameron Most was sent off. In the end it needed a goal from Lee Cash plus two from star man Nick Landesberg to steer them home.
The big names continue to come into the Lions squad with interim manager Andy Landesberg making another quality signing.
I managed to get a few minutes with him after his midweek press conference and he had this to say to JC Sport. “Weather permitting, we will welcome the League leaders to Rowley Lane.
“The squad continues to grow and strengthen with the signing of Danny Daggers from NW Neasden. Danny will be a great addition to our squad, helping to find the right balance between youth and experience.
“This will be another big test for us, and hopefully we can give a good account of ourselves. TJ Ketterman should be back from injury and will partner Lee Cash up front. I will announce the squad on Friday morning following training.
“Whilst it’s great to have the players to choose from, it is always difficult to have to leave a couple of the guys out. The commitment that the University boys are making to this squad is phenomenal, with seven of them making themselves available.
“My feeling is that there will be two or three of our players who will have a big point to prove on Sunday. James (Gershfield) and I are really starting to enjoy this and hopefully we can deliver the goods on Sunday.
Faithfold ran out 5-2 victors in the first meeting. I have a feeling things will be much closer on Sunday.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – Gary Silver
JC star man: Danny Daggers (Lions)
DC Prediction: Lions 1 Faithfold 1
----------------------------
DIVISION ONE
TOP-SCORERS
24 - Jamie Kent (Shirley Park)
14 - Yishai Last (Hendon B)
10 - Lee Cash (Neasden A), Chaim Gothold (Hendon B)
CHIGWELL ATHLETIC vs UJIA
If you’re looking for a safe bet this weekend, stick your savings on Chigwell beating UJIA.
Although Chigwell’s home league form has been far from spectacular to date, I think player-manager Richard Slater will hold all the aces on Sunday.
His men were rewarded for a big cup win with an extra weekend in bed, something Paul Lenchner really enjoyed. The same cannot be said about Lee Hyams and Daniel Castle – competitive beasts who need their Sunday morning release. Needless to say, both are looking forward to getting their hands on UJIA.
It’s been a while since I saw Russell Yershon’s name in lights. I firmly believe he has more to offer and hope Slater encourages him to get forward at every opportunity. Feed the Yersh and he will score, as the old saying goes!
Looking ahead to the game, Slater told JC Sport: “We're in good shape this weekend. Three points are a must for us and I believe we have enough quality to get the win.”
Goals have been scarce for UJIA this season and manager Ben Radstone has been looking to boost his forward line with a big name signing in the build-up to the game.
It’s been a tough slog for them thus far, and the 10-1 price on an away win tells you all you need to know.
It’s a home banker for me.
JC team news: Chigwell are missing keeper Rob Shepherdson and Simon Felstein.
Venue – Peter May, Ref - Adam Lewis
JC star man: Russell Yershon (Chigwell)
DC Prediction: Chigwell Athletic 3 UJIA 1
----------------------------
CAMDEN PARK vs LONDON MACCABI LIONS B
The top game in Division One sees third travel to fourth as Jamie Kyte’s Lions look to wrap up a league double over Camden.
“As always, this is one of the games we look forward to all season,” Kyte told JC Sport.
“With Camden moving to a new ground and signing up a new keeper, although they may see this as a step forward, all I see is them patching up existing frailties that have long gone unaddressed.”
The Lions progressed to the last 16 of the LFA Sunday Junior Cup last weekend when Joey Lazare was their star man in a thrilling 4-3 win. There were also goals from Dan Green and Dec Spiro in an excellent performance.
Kyte has his Lions just where he wants them right now and he believes this game will come at a good time for his boys.
“We have near to everyone available and competition for spots in the team is going to be fierce,” he said. “ When Camden came to the Den earlier in the season they played the better football and I'd say a win for us was flattering.
“Since then, we've gained momentum, started scoring more goals and tightened up at the back. This will be a fantastic game for the neutral and we expect a large travelling contingent to support the Lions at the Arc.”
Camden have won three out of four at home and scored goals aplenty, but they know the Lions well and will need to be on top of their game.
Camden player-manager Josh Marks told JC Sport: "We're looking forward to Sunday's game. I think Lions are in for a real shocker.
"If our last few performances are anything to go by - the second half will bring our fans to sing the familiar theme tune of “we are Camden, we do what we waaant.”
The battle between James Gold and Richard Silver will be worth the admission fee alone. It’s also a journalist dream headline-wise!
I think Sunday’s match will come down to small details, namely which team remembers their shooting boots.
I'm going to stick my neck on the Lions and tip Lions to nick it.
Venue – Ark Academy, Ref – Warwick Blake
JC star man: Jonny Cutter (Lions)
DC Prediction: Camden Park 1 Lions B 2
----------------------------
FAITHFOLD B vs SOUTHGATE HARMEN
Sam Lewis has given Faithfold B a new lease of life and he is the man Harmen will need to stop if they are to have any joy on Sunday.
Lewis gave another sparkling display in last weekend’s entertaining draw against Temple Fortune and he will be looking to make inroads into what has been a mean Harmen defence.
Harmen have kept clean sheets in their last two league games and manager Dan Uzan is determined to get back to winning ways after slipping up in the cup last time out.
He told JC Sport: “I’m looking for a big improvement on last week’s performance. We changed formation last week as it was a cup game and I wanted to try out something different. It didn’t work, but that is no excuse and I expect a reaction from the players on Sunday.
“Faithfold are a good team and in Matt Kleinman have a real leader in the middle of the park. We will look to play a high tempo game and keep a clean sheet.”
I don’t think there will be much to separate the teams and can see both sets of fans going home content.
JC team news: Harmen welcome back Ben Forman and James Stanley.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – Neal Cohen
JC star man: Ben Forman (Harmen)
DC Prediction: Faithfold 1 Harmen 1
----------------------------
GLENTHORNE UNITED A vs TEMPLE FORTUNE A
There’s a tasty affair in store in east London where leaders Glenthorne will be looking to make it seven wins in eight against Temple Fortune A.
The table-toppers were washed out last weekend but manager Sam Rosenthal kept a close eye on the JC.com to monitor Fortune’s progress against Faithfold B.
Rosenthal told JC Sport: "After a few weeks with no games, we're looking forward to getting back onto the pitch and to continue our good run."
Shai Davidi was the star man, netting the JC Goal of the Week in a sublime performance.
Manager Lee Fegan also sang the praises of new boy Scott Kay, who no doubt will have a big part to play on Sunday.
On their day, Fortune are hard to beat but they should expect no early Chanukah presents against a Glenthorne team on the verge of something special.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I know it’s only November but I think anyone that finishes above Glenthorne will win the title. Simple as that.
JC team news: Glenthorne should have a relatively fully fit squad.
Fortune could be tempted to put B-team player-manager and top-scorer Terry Jeffries on the bench after his match fell victim to the weather.
Venue – Ford Sports & Social, Ref – Laurie Benson
JC star man: Steve Murad (Fortune)
DC Prediction: Glenthorne A 2 Temple Fortune A 0
----------------------------
NORTH WEST NEASDEN A vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB B
Neasden boss Daniel Hodes could be in for a frosty reception for the visit of Hendon B on Sunday.
We’ve seen Rafa the Red cop some flak in quick succession at Stamford Bridge, but the NWN manager is in the spotlight after a whole host of big names walked out on the club.
Cash out, Shindler out, Blain out and this week saw Danny Daggers leave with the bright lights of Premier Division football proving too much.
But it’s all systems go for the Hendon boys who, rumour has it, are preparing some special Chanukah-style goal celebrations.
Joint-manager Motty Korman is confident they can cope with a “depleted squad” and they look to close in on the top four.
“We hope Barnet don’t call game off though as we desperately need match fitness before next week’s cup game,” a determined Motty told JC Sport.
“Neasden have been in the papers lately but as always, they will field a strong team and with our depleted team we expect it to be a tough game but it’s one we need to win if we want to keep up with the front runners.”
JC team news: Gav Noe as he continues with his medical course, James Joseph's preparing for marathon, Danny Steel work commitments, Alon blitz wife gave birth this week, Tali Nevies still recovering from his stag and keeper Joseph Corin has revision for exams, but they welcome back Arthur Caplin.
Ref – Andy Myerson
JC star man: Gav Noe (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Neasden 1 Hendon 3
----------------------------
DIVISION TWO
TOP-SCORERS
14 - Adam Hersh (Los Blancos)
8 - Dan Hildebrand (Brady B)
Promotion-chasing Blancos will be well aware of the 3G factor ahead of the long trip to Brunel on Sunday.
Jonny Blain and Ethan Zone fired Raiders to their first league win of the season last weekend, when they beat FC Team B 2-0. But they will need to up the ante against a Blancos team who have made a good start.
Blancos gaffer Adam Hersh is delighted with the options available on Sunday, with several regulars opting for some early Chanukah shopping at Brent Cross.
Hersh told JC Sport "It’s full steam ahead to Sunday where we will look to improve on our last trip to a 3G pitch and do the double of NL Raiders.
“It’s very tight at the top and we want to end the year in a good position to kick on after the break and mount a real challenge.”
Blancos have won just once of the road in the league this season. They will need to produce a near-perfect performance against an improving Raiders team if they are to achieve their goal of maximum points.
I expect keeper Josh Cohen to take centre stage in a hard-earned win.
JC team news: Blancos are missing a number of defensive players due to injuries and commitments, including Julian Gertner, Eddy Nathan and Elliot Kennard. Adam Waters returns to the side after an ankle injury.
Striker Jonny Blain is unavailable for Raiders.
Venue - Brunel, Ref – Martin Fox
JC star man: Josh Cohen (Blancos)
DC Prediction: Raiders B 1 Blancos 2
----------------------------
BLIZZARD STORM vs BRADY MACCABI B
With the new iPhone5 flying out of the Fonehouse shop in Borehamwood, Blizzard boss Simon Linden was forced to cancel his scheduled midweek press conference ahead of the crunch clash against Brady.
“They’ve been going like hot cakes,” he told me through his car window at the club’s training ground.
The Blizzard boys start Sunday’s game as underdogs; well, what do you expect when you see Brady’s star-studded line-up. I can see the Rowley Lane climbing through the league at a rate of knots given the top, young players they have at their disposal.
This Brady bunch are well-run and ambitious as they come at this level. In captain James Joseph they have a real Rolls Royce of a footballer, with Reiss Mogilner reminding me of a young Ryan Giggs. Josh Newman, Dan Hildebrand and Sam Singer give them a solid spine and I think their extra quality will shine through on Sunday.
Venue – Hampstead Heath Extension, Ref – Robert Benardout
JC star man: Reiss Mogilner (Brady)
DC Prediction: Blizzard Storm 1 Brady B 3
----------------------------
NORSTAR B vs ATHLETIC BILBAUM
The odds are stacked against lowly Norstar B when Bilbaum come to town on Sunday.
With a game in hand on the leaders, the Baums’ destiny lies in their own hands and manager Mark Pasha will be confident of steering his troops to what would be their seventh league success.
The boys in green and white have really looked the part this season and they go into this match on the back of an unbeaten six-match run.
It has been a real team effort from the Baums, although Jake Gilbert and Ben Bell have shown star quality time and again.
Norstar have yet to taste success this season and I think they’ll have to wait a little while longer.
Venue – John Lyons School, Ref – Laurence Thorne
JC star man: Seb Silverman (Bilbaum)
DC Prediction: Norstar B 0 Bilbaum 4
----------------------------
REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE B vs FC TEAM B
Although it’s relatively early days to talk about relegation six-pointers, the league table doesn’t lie and victory on Sunday could be priceless for the players of RJC and FC Team B on Sunday.
Jon Jacobs’ kids have been in freefall since hitting Norstar B for six in mid-October with 19 goals flying past keeper Matt Kemp in the last four league matches.
The goals have also dried up in that time and they have failed to register in more than 270 minutes in the league.
Ahead of their first meeting with the Team, Jacobs is determined to put out the strongest possible XI and he knows that a back-to-basics policy could be order of the day.
Ben Simon’s troops have also lost their last four, but the manager isn’t hitting the panic button just yet. He has confidence in his players and believes it’s only a matter of time until they pull a big result out of the bag.
There are fewer harder places to go than Fairlop Waters on a cold, Sunday morning, but I’m tipping the north Londoners to come away with the points on the back of a resolute performance.
Venue - Fairlop, Ref – Adam Yuchetel
JC star man: David Gordon (Team)
DC Prediction: Redbridge B 0 FC Team B 1
----------------------------
SPEC FC vs GLENTHORNE UNITED B
There’s a top-quality affair in store in Hatfield promotion rivals SPEC FC and Glenthorne B go head to head.
The Thornes start the match one point ahead of their north London rivals, with two games in hand.
Thornes joint-player-manager Jordan Sapler is looking forward to the match for a variety of reasons. He told JC Sport: "SPEC are a team that's familiar to a few of our boys having grown up together and been at Uni with them so they'll be looking to get one over them.
"A 3G pitch should mean the game is played no matter the weather, but it has the ability to become a heavy surface which won't suit either teams flowing game.
"But we can only play on what we're given and if we perform as I know we can then we'll be looking to get the three points, in a game which even this early could be between two of the teams challenging for promotion come the end of the season."
Meeting for the first time this season, it’s a must-win for Laurence Conway’s men, especially with it being a home game.
Looking ahead to the big game, SPEC FC’s Ricky Lawrence told JC Sport: "We know this Sunday is a massive game for both teams, but we feel dropping points is much less of an option for us than it is for them.
"It's our last league game of the year before two massive cup games and we've got to make sure we stay focused on this Sunday and not let our minds wander to Oakwood A in the Cyril Anekstein Cup next week.
"People will playing for their places in that huge game so hopefully that will show in people's performances."
Conway and co have been doing their homework on the Thornes and the JC archives will tell them that they have one of the best goalkeepers in town.
Unlike Liverpool, SPEC have won quite a few penalties this season which has allowed Lawrence to fill his boots on the goal front and I’ve heard rumours that he’s been nagging Conway for a pay rise if he reaches double figures.
Conway is aware that the Thornes have won at promotion rivals Brady B as well as several other away games so it’s clear they must be on their guard.
I have a feeling that lady luck will play its part in what will be an entertaining contest.
JC team news: Glenthorne were dealt a blow on the eve of the big match after star keeper Brad Grant injured his ankle in the morning rushhour. Neil Sapler will deputise in goal. They are otherwise near enough full strength.
Venue – Hatfield Uni, Ref – Keith Goodman
JC star man: Ashley Burns (SPEC FC)
DC Prediction: SPEC FC 2 Glenthorne B 1
----------------------------
L’EQUIPE vs LOUGHTON ORIENT
L’Equipe and Loughton Orient go in search of three points as they look to put daylight between themselves and wooden spoon favourites Boca.
L’Equipe’s fitness levels will be put to the test on Sunday as they attempt to turn things around.
Manager David Prager told JC Sport: “After not playing for three weeks, the team are chomping at the bit for Sunday, so fingers crossed the weather holds out!
“We have a full squad to pick from and we are desperate to get our season back on track, especially after the joke that was our last game which should never gone ahead due to the fact that the pitch was for under-18s and basically a mud bath due to the weather.”
Conditions at Copthall may prove something of a leveller, but the Loughton team is packed with experience players who love the rough and tumble of Maccabi football.
Manager Dan Curtis is keen to put on a good show in front of what is expected to be a decent crowd.
“We have a strong squad to pick from this weekend as nearly everyone is fit and available,” Curtis told JC Sport. “We expect a tough game this Sunday and we will need to be on top of our game if we are to take three points.”
If you’re looking for five-star entertainment on Sunday, get down to Copthall where goals are guaranteed.
JC team news: Loughton are missing Jaimie Sinclair (ankle) who will be sidelined for a few weeks.
Venue - Copthall, Ref – Paul Dobkin
JC star man: Andy Burke (L’Equipe)
DC Prediction: L’Equipe 3 Loughton Orient 3
----------------------------
JEWVENTUS vs FAITHFOLD C
Gaffer John’s squad is as changeable as the British weather, and with that comes a lack of consistency both in results and performance.
This week they’re up against a good Faithfold side and as per usual, John is taking nothing for granted.
“With Bobsie Cohen making a long-awaited comeback Jewve hope they can close the door on the sloppy defending and build from the back.”
I was with Jewve top-scorer Richard Fogelman at White Hart Lane on Wednesday night and he was mesmerised by Luis Suarez’s movement, so expect something special from the striker on Sunday.
But Faithfold have an influential striker of their own in Ben ‘Boris’ Simons. His battle with Bobsie is key to the outcome on Sunday.
Sunday’s match will come down to which team wins their individual and collective battles.
JC Big Match Odds
Fogey to score - Evens
Ami to score - 1-2
John to score - 100-1 (Ed. I’ll have some of that!)
Kay to score left-footed - 1000-1
Bobsie to head the ball - book closed
Rook to get wound up - 4-1
Someone to moan at Gabe - ALL BETS OFF.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – David Nathan
JC star man: Gab Saul (Jewve)
DC Prediction: Jewventus 3 Faithfold C 2
----------------------------
HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB C vs NORSTAR C
Onwards and upwards. That has been Norstar’s motto in recent weeks and they go into this game in buoyant mood following the 4-2 win over Tottenham Chutspah last Sunday.
Nick Haringman impressed once again for the Oranges, bagging a brace in another eye-catching display, with Oli Nathan and Joel Levitt completing the job.
Levitt hopes his cameo has given manager Zack Gothelf a remember of his qualities and he’s hoping for a place in the starting XI this weekend.
Looking ahead to the game, Norstar no. 2 David Domb told JC Sport: “It seems like we’re finally finding our feet after a slow start.
“Last Sunday we claimed our third victory of the season, playing some really good football in the process.
“Last time we met Hendon, it didn't exactly go according to plan, but we're a different team now. We're confident following three straight wins, and there's a really good spirit amongst the boys at the moment.
“It would be great if we could keep the run going against an improving Hendon United side.”
As Domb mentioned, Norstar were well beaten in the previous meeting with Hendon C. Alex Elf (4), Daniel Major, Adam Glekin, Craig Phillips, Benny Goldberg and
Gideon Caller were the marksmen in a 9-1 demolition.
Hendon have had a mixed batch of results in recent weeks, but they are clearly a very different team with Elf up top.
Revenge will be the name of the game on Sunday and with the momentum with Norstar, I can see them taking the points in what should be an entertaining affair.
JC team news: Assistant-boss David Domb is set to return following a knee injury. Alex Goodman will be back after being unavailable last weekend.
Venue – West Hendon, Ref – Quentin Fox
JC star man: Joel Levitt (Norstar)
DC Prediction: Hendon C 2 Norstar C 3
----------------------------
TOTTENHAM CHUTSPAH vs AC MILL HILL
Sunday is a must-win for the Chutspah boys as they look to get back in the promotion mix.
Defeated 4-2 at Norstar last weekend, Ariel Tamman is confident his defence will be able to cope with the threat of Mill Hill star man Ben Zloof.
It’s really vital they don’t give him an inch as he’s bang on form at the minute and everything he is touching is turning into goals.
Tamman will be concerned with the number of goals already conceded, an area no doubt he would’ve focused on in training this week.
The Mill Hill boys are looking forward to their first-ever meeting with Chutspah in the battle of the new boys. Joe Levy’s troops have not conceded for more than 270 minutes of league football, and they are clearly living up to the pre-season hype.
Sunday’s game can’t come soon enough for Levy and co. The Mill Hill boss told JC Sport: “We are at near full-strength and competition for places is now hotting up.
“We hope to announce a big, marquee signing within the next few days. We are awaiting transfer confirmation and do not want to jinx anything.
“We hope to continue our fine form and make it a fourth consecutive win and clean sheet. We know that to win the league we need a slip-up or a favour from another team. However, all we can do is keep winning and putting the points on the board.”
If Mill Hill play their cards right, they could indeed finish the weekend top of the table.
Venue - Regents Park, Ref – Rob Caplin
JC star man: Scott Ackerman (Mill Hill)
DC Prediction: Tottenham Chutspah 1 AC Mill Hill 3
----------------------------
TEMPLE FORTUNE B P BOCA JEWNIORS P
Match postponed – waterlogged pitch
----------------------------
OAKWOOD B vs FC TEAM C
Match postponed - waterlogged pitch
