Sport
Danny Caro's half-term report
HMH, North London Raiders and FC Team go into the winter break top of their respective MGBSFL divisions. Here, Danny Caro gives his mid-term report.
December 20, 2019 14:54
HMH, North London Raiders and FC Team go into the winter break top of their respective MGBSFL divisions. Here, Danny Caro gives his mid-term report.
December 20, 2019 14:54PREMIER DIVISION
1. HMH
Five wins from eight have put Avi Goldberg’s boys top going into the new year, but Hendon United crucially have two games in hand in their bid to retain the title. The defending champions beat HMH 3-0 on the opening weekend of the season, but HMH exacted revenge in November, running out 4-2 victors.
Most appearances: Oscar Wagner 9
Top-scorer: Oscar Wagner 8
Clean sheets: 5
Games failed to score in: 2
MVP: Thomas Prais
--------------------
2. HENDON UNITED SPORTS
Hendon’s Peter Morrison Trophy exit at the hands of first division Hertswood Vale came as a bitter blow. The Reds have one of the smallest squads in the league this season, but they continue to play like a well-oiled machine, with Chaim Korman stepping up a level this term. The destiny of the league title remains in their hands if they keep doing what they are doing, although the recent league defeat to HMH has kept things interesting.
Most appearances: Simon Peterman, Moses Seitler 8
Top-scorer: Chaim Korman 7
Clean sheets: 4
Games failed to score in: 0
MVP: Rocky Spitzer
--------------------
3. FAITHFOLD DOCMM WHITE
The Superhoops made their intentions clear with four points out of a possible six against Oakwood and MLFC Blue. A goalless draw against HMH showed there are not afraid to dig in when needed, with new goalkeeper Gideon Rabstein a welcome addition. He has produced some outstanding performances and rave reviews and is exactly what they needed. The have also addressed the need for more goals from one source in Akiva Solomon, who is proving to be one of the bargains of the season. A strong Faithfold is good for the league and a 3-1 win over Oakwood in their final game of the year was a real statement of intent.
Most appearances: Eli Davila, Jamie Davila, Martin Smulovitch, Akiva Solomon, Avi Markiewicz
Top-scorer: Akiva Solomon 9
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 3
MVP: Gideon Rabstein
--------------------
4. MLFC BLUE
MLFC have been solid if unspectacular up to now. Scoring in every game, they started slowly with defeats against Camden Park and Faithfold DocMM White, their best result to date was a 1-0 win over leaders HMH. A pair of draws against Oakwood proves they are well-equipped to push for honours, although highly-fancied Manchester Maccabi lie in wait for them in the Morrison. Bigger tests lie ahead in the new year.
Most appearances: Ben Kohler 8
Top-scorer: Benji Weinberger 5
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 0
MPV: Benji Weinberger
--------------------
5. OAKWOOD
Beefed up their squad recently by recruiting James and Richard Gold from MLFC, but their squad still seems a tad light. Have fallen just short against HMH and Hendon United and were given a scare in the cup against second division Hampstead Ducks. Have become a little too reliant on Josh Cuby and really need a regular supply of goals from a second source.
Most appearances: James Hiller 10
Top-scorer: Josh Cuby
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 0
MVP: Josh Cuby
--------------------
6. CAMDEN PARK
Started the season in style with victory over MLFC, but it’s been downhill from there, with no clean sheets telling you where their problems lie. When a full-strength squad is available, they can mix it with the best, but discipline remains an issue and has left them chasing games at times. What they could do with an Oli Sade right now …
Most appearances: David Khalatschi, Jake Saunders, Daniel Orgel
Top-scorer: Daniel Orgel 5
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 3
MVP: Johann Jordi
--------------------
7. FAIRLOP
No wins in six league games and dumped out of the Anekstein by Raiders, it’s been a tough start for Fairlop FC. Like Hendon United, they have a small squad that looks short in a couple of areas. They could really benefit from a top-notch goalkeeper for starters, as the efforts and brilliance of their best players are being frustrated.
Most appearances: Ryan Cole, Dean Ben Yosef, James Jaconelli
Top-scorer: James Jaconelli 3
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 3
MVP: Ryan Cole, Brad Gayer
--------------------
DIVISION ONE
1. NORTH LONDON RAIDERS
Have the look and feel of champions, as the most recent victory over Hertswood Vale will tell you … have set the bar sky-high with the most wins, most goals scored and fewest conceded (from games played). Aron Gale and Liron Mannie have destroyed defences across the division and also accounted for Premier Division Fairlop in the cup. Raiders is a great place to be right now and they look destined for a return to the top-flight
Most appearances: Liron Mannie 9
Top-scorer: Aron Gale 15
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 0
MVP: Aron Gale, Liron Mannie FC
--------------------
2. HERTSWOOD VALE
A cupset over Hendon United in the Jewish FA Cup has been Vale’s season highlight thus far. They gave an excellent account of themselves against table-toppers Raiders last time out, and the past 12 months have been all about progress, development and improvement, as individuals, a team and a club. If you’re looking for an example about how to run a Sunday morning football club, then look no further.
Most appearances: Jordan Harris, James Millet 10
Top-scorer: James Millet 16 (all comps)
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 0
MVP: James Millet
--------------------
3. NORTH LONDON GALAXY
Galaxy remain unbeaten and have hardly put a foot wrong, but it’s been a tough act trying to keep up with north London rivals Raiders. They guarantee five-star entertainment but consistency is key is they are to take that second promotion slot they so dearly want.
Most appearances: Zac Rose 9
Top-scorers: Luke Lewis, Nick Barnett, Jake Moss, James Belchack, Jordan Aspis, Harrison Baum, Jordan Grundman (all on 3)
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 0
MVP: Josh Shack
--------------------
4. JEWDINESE
The arrival of Reiss Mogilner lifted ‘Nese fans at the start of the season, and he has not disappointed. Defensively sound, with Adam Gold and Grant Reingold lycnhpins in a well-drilled unit, they must pull a couple of big results out of the bag if they are to muscle into the top two come the business end of the season.
Most appearances: Brad Dryer, Grant Reingold, Joe Meisel, Billy Lee 7
Top-scorer: Reiss Mogilner 10
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 0
MVP: Reiss Mogilner
--------------------
5. SPEC FC
To be honest, I expected more from an experienced SPEC FC team. Have lost more than they have won, which is surprising when you consider their rock-solid spine and squad depth. One of the division’s great entertainers but mid-term reports could’ve done better.
Most appearances: Jeff Gotch, Jamie Smaje 10
Top-scorer: Zack Neiman 7
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 1
MVP: Zack Neiman
--------------------
6. BROOK FARM ROVERS
Having jumped straight into Division One, Rovers got off to a bad start against Jewdinese, but they have bounced back well, drawing with high-flying Hertswood Vale and Galaxy in recent weeks. They were the hardest hit team after losing six points following the withdrawal of Bayern Mincha. They have been a strong addition to the league and the future looks bright.
Most appearances: Nathan Steuer 9
Top-scorer: Dan Cohen 6
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 1
MVP: Dan Cohen
--------------------
7. MLFC RED
A famous pundit once said: “You’ll win nothing with kids.” MLFC Red will say ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’ … the team remains a work in progress. The fact they have 46 players registered tells a story in itself. Watch this space!
Most appearances: Joel Freedman 6
Top-scorer: Scott Gordon 3
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 1
MVP: Joel Freedman
--------------------
8. REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE
RJC have struggled so far this season, and unless they find another source of goals – Niv Gur has been their stand-out performer in that department, it’s hard to see them finishing outside of the bottom two. Perhaps boss Daniel Jacobs can persuade one or two of their old boys to help out.
Most appearances: Matt Kemp, Jimmy Castle, Daniel Wexler, Niv Gur 8
Top-scorer: Niv Gur 9
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 4
MVP: Niv Gur
--------------------
9. MILL HILL DONS
I’ve been surprised that the Dons have fallen short in every game they have played this season. Granted the jump from Division Two to One isn’t easy, but they have the players to finish mid-table. Most games have been tight, apart from the two matches against table-toppers Raiders. Manager Jamie Nagioff will be looking to pick up a couple of free transfers in the Chanukah window, especially at the back, where they have leaked goals too freely. Shout out to striker Zach Cohen for ten goals in seven starts.
Most appearances: Adam Isaacs, Zach Cohen 8
Top-scorer: Zach Cohen 10
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 1
MVP: Zach Cohen
--------------------
DIVISION TWO
1. FC TEAM
A number of clever summer signings was the blueprint for an exceptional first half of the season for FC Team. Craig Sandford, Ben Sollosi and Adam Shafron would walk into any team in the MGBSFL. Throw Steve Summers and Jonny Haik into the mix and you are talking champions. The only unbeaten side in the division, Mitch Young doesn’t have the biggest squad in the world, but it’s packed with quality and match-winners. Young and co know the job isn’t done yet, especially with Borussia Barnet breathing down their necks. But only a brave man would bet against them.
Most appearances: David Gordon, Josh Morris, Adam Shafron, Richard Salmon 9
Top-scorer: Richard Salmon 8
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 0
MVPs: Adam Shafron, Richard Salmon
--------------------
2. BORUSSIA BARNET
Seven wins out of nine is an excellent start for Borussia Barnet. The showed great ambition and intent last summer, welcoming former Cyril Anekstein Cup match-winner Joe Botchin, along with Adam Lipman, Jack Mattey and Michael Kenley from MLFC. And they have done the business on the pitch too. The squad knows they will be judged over the second half of the season, starting with a clash of the titans against joint-leaders FC Team on January 5.
Most appearances: Joe Botchin, Joe Eskenazy, Scott Greenfield 9
Top-scorer: Oron Sheldon 8
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 1
MVP: Joe Botchin, Michael Kenley
--------------------
3. TEMPLE FORTUNE
Finalists in the pre-season eight-a-side tournament, Fortune are enjoying a season of resurgence. They go into 2020 in a promising position, knowing there is room for improvement. They have secured wins in matches one would expect, but the fixture list will get tougher at the turn of the year. And that’s essentially where they will be judged. But an experienced backbone will no doubt relish the matches ahead, with gaffer Simon Linden barking out the instructions ‘let’s be ‘avin ya!’
Most appearances: Simon Cohen, Benji Gourgey, Liam Stein, Danny Sherman 12
Top-scorer: Danny Sherman 12
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 1
MVP: Danny Sherman
--------------------
4. CLUB de CHIGWELL
CdC started the season with a bang, sticking seven past Borussia. In Daniel Garfinkle and Saul Green they have a front two to die for. But like Temple Fortune, they will be judged on what they do against the top teams. When they click they are more than capable of beating the best in the division, but four defeats out of ten have held them back slightly. Realistically third place looks their most likely finish, although Temple Fortune will have something to say about that.
Most appearances: Josh Dobias, Daniel Simons, Daniel Garfinkle 12
Top-scorer: Daniel Garfinkle 13
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 2
MVP: Daniel Garfinkle, Saul Green
--------------------
5. PARIS SAINT-JEWMAIN
Won five, lost five in the league and gave a very good account of themselves in the cup against first division giants North London Galaxy. Will do well to push on and clinch a top four finish. The recent arrival of Israeli hot-shot Amit Shabtai certainly spiced things up and the longer they can keep him the better.
Most appearances: Michael Elia 11
Top-scorer: Josh Cohen 6
Clean sheets: 2
Games failed to score in: 3
MVP: Josh Cohen, Amit Shabtai
--------------------
6. SCRABBLE FC
After a solid enough start, the golden oldies suffered a terrible October, which filtered into November, and to make matters worse, they lost talisman Serge Cowan to injury for the rest of the season. A win over third-placed Temple Fortune has been the highlight so far.
Most appearances: Jonny Summerfield, Alex Bourne 11
Top-scorer: Alex Bourne 8
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 1
MVPs: Nigel Goldthorpe, Serge Cowan, Lloyd Becker, Alex Bourne
--------------------
7. HAMPSTEAD DUCKS
Where would Hampstead Ducks be without the goals of Jono Gaon?To find the team featuring the league’s top-scorer in seventh position is a little odd, I’m sure you’d agree, but his manager would say that Gaon has scored his goals due to the excellent service he receives. The Ducks took Premier Division Oakwood to extra-time in the cup. Imagine where they would be if they played every match with the same focus and application …
Most appearances: Joseph Kenley 11
Top-scorer: Jono Gaon 17
Clean sheets: 0
Games failed to score in: 0
MVP: Jono Gaon
--------------------
8. FAITHFOLD DOCMM GREEN
The Superhoops have produced strong results from time to time, but in between they have slipped below the standard expected from manager Ben Kfir. But with games in hand on the teams above them, there’s no reason why they can’t be pushing for a top-six finish come the end of the season.
Most appearances: Hezzie Raymond 9
Top-scorer: Motty Herzog 5
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 0
MVP: Anthony Plaskow, Motty Herzog
--------------------
9. NORTH WEST LONDON BEARS
A striker is top of the Bears’ Chanukah wish-list following a first-half of under-achievement. They have the best goalkeeper in the division but have been left hamstrung by a lack of goals – a run of four games without scoring really hurt them. On the flipside, Rome wasn’t built in a day – although it needed three golden oldies to mastermind their one and only win to date, against West Hamdillah.
Most appearances: James Harpin, Simon Lousky 11
Top-scorer: Zacki Doumou, George Hagen Levy 2
Clean sheets: 1
Games failed to score in: 5
MVP: James Harpin
--------------------
10. WEST HAMDILLAH
Signing a decent press officer would probably be a good place to start! Ten defeats out of ten. The only way is up!
Most appearances: Saul Amdur, Zach Amdur, Sammy Assil 11
Top-scorer: Josh Levy 3
Clean sheets: 3
Games failed to score in: 0
ALSO SEE: