Match of the day sees 2011 league champions Redbridge Jewish Care A take on defending champions Hendon United Sports Club A, while Brixton Old Boys will be looking to progress in the cup against managerless London Maccabi Lions A. Danny Caro looks ahead to all the action.
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PHOTOGALLERY: FC TEAM A vs HENDON UTD SC A
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JC REFEREE OF THE WEEK
Tony McEvoy (Brixton Old Boys vs Redbridge Jewish Care A)
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JC GOAL OF THE WEEK
Haki Elias (Shirley Park) - turned inside form the right and curled a left footer past Shirley keeper
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JC QUOTE OF THE WEEK
David Garbacz (Hendon A) - "The first word of congratulations should go to referee Martin Fox for making the correct yet brave decision to get the game on and then for keeping a good lid on things when they threatened to boil over"
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YOUR WEEKEND PREVIEW STARTS HERE:
JC CYRIL ANEKSTEIN CUP ROUND TWO
BRIXTON OLD BOYS vs LONDON MACCABI LIONS A
In-form Brixton welcome a Lions team in disarray following the shock sacking of managers Malcolm Newman and Josh Newman.
While John Nitka’s men were doing the business against Redbridge, the Newmans received the dreaded call from Lions HQ to tell them their time was up.
LANDESBURG STEPS IN AS LIONS INTERIM BOSS
In a statement, Josh Newman told JC Sport: “It is with big regret that we were not given the opportunity to finish off something we had started.
“The only reason appeared to be the exclusion of Maccabiah-bound Max Kyte from the squad, as the board confirmed they had been looking to get rid of us for a year now, since his departure from the team. I’m sure this will be rectified by whoever takes over.
“In light of this, it is extremely disappointing and mystifying as to why we were then asked to continue in charge this season and when posed this same question, they were unable to give any explanation.
“We would like to take the opportunity to thank all of the players that have been involved with us not only this year but also throughout last year for all the effort and commitment they have shown.”
It would be fair to say there has been discontent in the Lions ranks for quite a few weeks now, with Sam Castle, Alex Bowman, Mike Pearson, Elliot Stern and Lorian Madanes having departed, but they still have enough quality to give Brixton a game.
The home side are in red-hot form at the minute, with Danny Sherman, Mike Posner and Benji Weinberger on target in the 3-1 success over Redbridge last weekend.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Nitka told JC Sport: “Sunday’s game can go either way – once again I already have four players out from last Sunday’s win – no idea at this stage who is available so who knows.
“Whatever happens well give them a game, as I’m sure they will want revenge from our last match with them.”
Brixton have turned Clowes into a fortress when they have all their big guns out and they will certainly fancy themselves. The first 20 minutes will be crucial for Lions as if Brixton forge ahead, you can’t see them slipping up.
Venue – Clowes, Ref – Neil Cooper
JC star man: James Lee (Brixton)
DC Prediction: Brixton 2 Lions 1
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FAITHFOLD A vs FC TEAM C
Precisely 34 places separate MSFL league leaders Faithfold A and Division Three table-toppers FC Team C, but Zuriel Solomon will be taking nothing for granted ahead of Sunday’s tie.
The Superhoops were left frustrated by the weather when last week’s match against Brady fell victim to the weather. It was a case of déjà vu for FC Team – a team in red-hot form.
It’s been a real team effort from Faithfold thus far, and the experience of captain Alex Levack and striker Daryl Phillips is key to the outcome.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Faithfold boss Zuriel Solomon told JC Sport: "Sunday is a welcome break from the league, although last week’s game was called off we have been training so should be nice and fresh.
"We have a full squad so for me it is a massive plus. It gives me the opportunity to pick and choose and make sure my boys don’t get complacent because I have adequate replacements if they do.
"We are learning not to take any game lightly and that includes FC Team C. They have a young team and have nothing to lose so these are games that if you don’t put them to bed early it gives them renewed hope.
"We are not thinking about winning cups, leagues, etc, we are only in November! The next game is the most important."
FC Team must go into this game with no fear and with Rob Sanford and Dan Rothman in top form, they can’t wait for the first whistle.
It will be interesting to see how Faithfold cope with the physical presence of Sanford. I recall in his Raiders days, he bossed proceedings, but in Alex Kaye the Superhoops have the just the man to nullify his threat.
Faithfold have turned the Lodge into a fortress this season and as long as they show the right attitude and keep their heads, their natural ability and superior technique should ensure they go through without too many problems.
JC team news: James Frener is still sidelined for Faithfold, but there was some good news as midfiled general Paul Babai returned to training last week and is nearing full fitness.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – Martin Fox
JC star man: Alex Kaye (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: Faithfold A 3 FC Team C 1
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WOODFORD WANDERERS vs FAITHFOLD B
Woodford manager Paul Hyams has informed me he has a fully fit squad to pick from in the team’s race to reach Wingate.
Yet to meet in the league this season, both teams have been struggling on the results front, although the Woodford boys feel that a win on Sunday would help them turn a corner.
Mitch Hahn continues to be a big player for the east Londoners and given they have home advantage, I can see him playing a lead role on Sunday.
Woodford’s Ben Rosenthal told JC Sport: “We hope to have a good cup run and are looking for a good win on home soil on Sunday.”
Faithfold have hit rock bottom and there was relief in some quarters when last week’s game fell victim to the weather.
There has been a lot of soul-searching in the Faithfold camp since that ultimately humiliating 11-2 battering at the hands of Shirley Park, and a confident Hahn is the last thing they need right now.
Manager Rob Shooman must be feeling the heat after a series of indifferent results. No doubt he'll be looking for big performances from his big players, none more so than Matty Kleinman.
Assistant-manager Ben Lewis has been working hard behind the scenes this week, putting together a squad, with several regulars injured or away.
Ahead of the game he told JC Sport: "To compete at this level, bearing in mind promotion last year by default, the players are relishing the challenge and when we get a little confidence back and with a bit of luck we will be back on track.
"We're looking forward to Sunday and it's worth keeping an eye out for the return of Josh Daniels to the squad this season.
"Ben Loftus returns injury. He is a key player for the future in the middle of the park and up front the combination of Grossman and Doron Hershkorn has looked good when they have played."
I think Sunday’s match will be won by the team that keeps 11 men on the park.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – Brandon Pieters
JC star man: Mitch Hahn (Woodford)
DC Prediction: Woodford 2 Faithfold B 0
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BRADY MACCABI B vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS B
Brady B and Raiders B ground out a goalless draw on October 7 and the neutrals in the crowd hope that the prize of a place in round three will lead to an exciting cup.
Josh Dagul’s Brady go into the game on the back of a nine-goal thriller against Neasden A. Midfield maestro Mike ‘Justin’ Beaber was their star man in a game where Dagul (2), James Joseph and Harry Davis registered for the Rowley Lane club.
With Morrison hopes over for another season, Dagul will be confident of coming away from Arkley with a win.
Form goes out of the window in the cup and Raiders boss Oli Shorts hopes that his team is able to show their true colours in a game they start as underdogs.
Ben Hart has made another good start this season, but Shorts and right-hand man Rich Abrahams are keen for the team to share the goals around, but I think they will have their work cut out trying to bomb forward from midfield on what is expected to be a slick surface.
Raiders boss Oli Shorts told JC Sport: "We're slowly getting our full squad back together with the return of Josh Graham and Nicky Woolf after a month out with exams.
"We know it'll be hard against Brady, but as long as we put in a good performance I'll be happy.
"Our results and performances have improved over the last month, but we're not getting that bit of luck that we deserve. We won't win the cup so all I want is a good performance to take into next week's game against Brady."
For me, Brady will hold all the aces on Sunday.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – John Feenstra
JC star man: Mike Beaber (Brady)
DC Prediction: Brady 3 Raiders B 1
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JC MSFL PREMIER DIVISION
TOP-SCORERS
7 - Lorian Madanes, Mike Pearson (both LML A)
6 - Daryl Phillips (Faithfold A)
5 - Alon Hershkorn (Brixton A), Adam Stolerman, (Redbridge JC A), Brad Wine,
FC TEAM A vs NORSTAR A
There will be a real fanfare atmosphere around Borehamwood on Sunday as Phil Peters and Jamie Slavin celebrate their 100th game in charge of Norstar A.
The dynamic duo have enjoyed some happy times together, especially on the touchline, but they should expect no favours from an FC Team side smarting from a cup defeat.
Beaten 4-2 by Raiders in the cup last weekend, Peters is confident his boys will put on a good show.
Ahead of kick-off, the Norstar boss told JC Sport: “We should have beaten FC Team last time - but for a missed penalty when down to 10-men who knows how things might have panned out...
“As it is, they've gone on and done fantastically well - somehow beating Faithfold and Hendon, who we've lost to.
“That said, we know what their game's about and if we can deal with the long-balls then we should be OK.
“We’re missing lots of players, as is usual, but will be going all out for our first three points of the season.”
Before looking at FC Team, I’d like to say that although Peters and other managers have pointed out their physical attributes and, at times, direct tactics, they are also a very good footballing team with high levels of fitness.
The boys in blue and yellow were unable to beat Hendon for a second time this season last week, but I expect that manager Mitch Young would’ve worked his troops hard ahead of a game where nothing less than three points will keep the gaffer happy.
“We have been hit by a number of injuries and suspensions so now I’ll see how strong the squad is,” Young told JC Sport at his midweek press conference.
“We are on the back of two disappointing results so we will do everything we can to get back on track on Sunday against a hard-working Norstar side.
I fear Norstar’s party could fall flat on Sunday as the Team gets back to doing what it does best. As Raiders showed last weekend, if you stop Jonny Kaye you're halfway to stopping Norstar and in Matt Drage and Simon Peterman they have just the men for the job.
JC team news: Gideon Moss, Jon Toby, James Korn are all unavailable for FC Team.
Venue – Meadow Park, Ref – Stuart Ansher
JC star man: Oli Segal (Team)
DC Prediction: FC Team A 2 Norstar A 0
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REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE A vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB A
2011 league winners Redbridge are relishing their first meeting of the season with the defending champions in a match that has been sold out since Simchat Torah.
The Redbridge boys suffered their second league defeat when they went down 3-1 against Brixton last Sunday. Defender Brad Frankel popped up with yet another goal in a game where they had lots of possession but break Brixton down again.
But manager Eilon Kennet won’t need to say much to motivate his troops for the challenge of Hendon. After all, they have an excellent record against the north Londoners.
Looking ahead to kick-off, RJC skipper Adam Hakimi told JC Sport: “It's always a tight game with Hendon who are tremendous competitors and fight until the very end.
“We haven't lost in six games in all competitions against them and look forward to the battle ahead.”
Hendon got back to winning ways with a hard-fought win over FC Team last Sunday. Manager David Garbacz singled out Ari Nevies and Avidan Last for praise in a match where Dovid Korman and Last found a way past Ed Bloom.
Similar effort levels will be needed for a match against talented opposition – in what has become a must-win for the home side.
“There are few harder places to go to than Fairlop for an away match against Redbridge,” Hendon boss David Garbacz told JC Sport. “Once again we have a fair selection of un-availabilities and the depth of the squad will be tested to the full.
“This is a vital league game for both teams and I’m sure three points will give either team the belief that they can start to claw back the early lead that Faithfold have established.
“We have enormous respect for Redbridge but know that on our day we should be able to beat them and will be going all out for the win.
“Last week’s cup win against a very tough FC Team has restored our belief that we will not be letting slip or grip on any of our trophies too easily, but we are also well aware of the importance of a win this week and also how difficult it will be especially with a limited squad.
“Expect a humdinger of a game with lots of goals as both teams place emphasis on attack and the all-important three points.”
With Hendon looking back to their best, the emphasis will be on RJC taking the game to them in a game that will be won and lost in midfield.
Fans are advised to arrive early for a match that guarantees five-star entertainment.
JC team news: Hendon still have injury and unavailability problems. Definitely out are Alex Gilbert and Jacob Gold with long-term injuries. Yoav Kestenbaum is away at University and Ari Last and Ben Lauffer are both doubtful. On the plus side, Greg ‘Lino’ Corin will be available.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – Adam Lewis
JC star man: Adam Hakimi (RJC)
DC Prediction: Redbridge A 2 Hendon A 2
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DIVISION ONE
TOP-SCORERS
21 - Jamie Kent (Shirley Park)
11 - Yishai Last (Hendon B)
CAMDEN PARK vs CHIGWELL ATHLETIC
Revenge is the name of the game for Chigwell Athletic as they go in search of their second league win of the season.
Manager Richard Slater knows that they need a good run between now and Chanukah as they look to close the gap at the top. With that in mind, Sunday will be like a cup final for the east Londoners.
Starting the match six points behind Camden, Slater told JC Sport: 'We're looking forward to the game on Sunday, especially after our previous meeting with Camden where we had so many players out, no keeper, no subs and an injury after 10 minutes.
“The lads gave a brilliant account of themselves in those circumstances. They moved the ball very well and are a decent side, but this weekend we're focused on coming back to Essex with three points.”
Of course, Slater is referring to the 3-1 defeat in September when Richard Silver grabbed the headlines with a brilliant brace.
Fair play to Camden, they’ve beaten Chigwell and won three other games, but they’ve lost when it really matters, to Lions B and Glenthorne.
With Glenthorne having set off at such a relentless pace, it already looks as though they are playing for second place.
Player-manager Josh Marks knows that they must get something from the game and will instruct his team to defend properly from set-pieces, an area where Chigwell are particularly threatening.
An action-packed and high-octane affair is on the cards in a game I expect Camden to try and fly out of the blocks.
JC team news: Chigwell’s Russell Brill, Jonathan and James Swead miss out due to a Maccabiah training day, while Simon Felstein is working and keeper Rob Shepherdson is. But they’re otherwise “in good shape”.
Chigwell squad: Marc Jacobs, Pierce Prince, Paul Lenchner, Lee Hyams, Alex Norman, Brad Gayer, Glenn Davis, Daniel Castle (capt), Richard Baum, Craig Pearl, Richard Slater, Anthony Mendel, Russell Yershon, Jamie Fox, Neil Tilley, Dean Ben-Yosef
Venue – Ark Academy, Ref - , KO – 10.15am
JC star man: Marc Jacobs (Camden)
DC Prediction: Camden Park 2 Chigwell Athletic 1
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HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB B vs SHIRLEY PARK
Goals are guaranteed when Hendon entertain Shirley Park in the Division One game of the day.
Both teams are locked on 14 points, although Hendon have a game in hand.
No doubt, Motty Korman and Chaim Gothold have been locked in meetings with Craig Miller, the club’s C-team boss, who last week masterminded a memorable 6-4 win over Shirley in the cup.
“Last weeks game being called off was a bit of a blessing in disguise as a few of the boys were struggling with a few niggles although extra training will be in place to make up for the lack of playing time last week,” Korman told JC Sport.
“We have been conceding goals too easily and this week will need to be alert to prevent the threat of ex-Hendon boy Saul Conway and Jamie Kent who has been banging them in for years.
“We have been prolific in front of goal with the likes of RA Noe, Yishai Last and Chaim Gothold - I predict several goals this week and hope it won’t be another 6-6 draw!
“We will be speaking to our C team who beat Shirley 6-4 and are considering drafting in their first 11 to play the game for us!”
Things went a bit Pete Tong for Shirley and there were no excuses as they lined-up with the likes of household names including Conway, Kent and Benfredj.
You see, it’s all about attitude with Shirley. If they’ve had a heavy Saturday night and think it’s just about turning up, they can think again – what’s known as a wake-up call. But it could be just what the doctor ordered as manager Dave Lusman let rip with his hairdryer after the game.
There has been a sense of calm and focus in the Shirley camp ahead of the trip to Walthamstow, as Lusman explains. “After last week’s shock result against Hendon, we need to sharpen up and set the record straight against the B's.
“We have a few absentees though suspension and injury, but we hope to have Gideon Gold back and fit to start after four weeks out on the sidelines and welcome back Becks (that’s Dan Beckwith to you and me) and Nicky Plotnek back in the frame.”
As Korman mentioned, it finished 6-6 the last time the teams met. You can get 100-1 on a repeat performance in what has become the MSFL’s answer to Liverpool vs Newcastle.
With Chaim Gothold, RA Noe and Gav Noe lining up on one side, and Kent, Conway and Plotnek on the other, take my word for it, this match will not finish goalless.
JC team news: James Joseph is still injured for Hendon, while Danny Steel is unavailable due to work commitments.
Venue – West Hendon, Ref – Martin Lavender
JC star man: Gav Noe (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Hendon B 3 Shirley Park 2
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LONDON MACCABI LIONS B vs NORTH WEST NEASDEN A
There will be lots of talent on show when Lions B take on Neasden A down the Lane on Sunday morning.
Both teams are gunning for promotion, but with Glenthorne, Camden and Hendon have set off at a rate of knots, three points are crucial to their hopes this weekend.
Lions have won both their league games at home this season, and quite comfortably too.
It’s the first in a series of three tough league games for Jamie Kyte’s men, with Shirley Park and Camden to follow, with a cup game against Hendon B sandwiched in between.
There are virtually no weaknesses in the Lions squad these days, with a rock-solid spine in David Kosky, Henry Ziff, Max Kyte and James Gold. The manager will feel his team has the measure of Neasden in the first meeting between the teams this season.
NWN boss Dan Hodes summed up his team well after last weekend’s nail-biter against Brady B. “Flashes of excellence interspersed with moments of naivety,” he told me shortly after the final whistle.
It needed club record goal-scorer Lee Cash to save their blushes against second division opposition.
Hodes went on to say: “The positives are clear to see; the ability to score lots and come back from behind, but on the negative we are still leaking goals to easily and don't seem to get a full 90-minute performance.”
NWN must play for 90 minutes, or else I can see them limping away from Arkley with tails between their legs.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – Laurie Benson
JC star man: Joey Lazare (LML)
DC Prediction: Lions B 2 Neasden A 1
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SOUTHGATE HARMEN vs UJIA
UJIA are in dire straits at the minute, with new boss Ben Radstone desperate for some new faces to bolster the squad ahead of the trip to Southgate.
When he took over from Darren Rolfe, some would say he was left with something of a sinking ship, with an aging team and playing in a division higher making life very difficult.
There has been a major turn-around of personnel over the past few seasons and they are short of numbers, especially in midfield and up front.
Radstone this week made a plea for players to join. He told JC Sport: "If we don’t recruit any players I am not sure how long will be able to survive." So if there are any players out there keen to help the club survive, please step forward now.
Harmen won the first meeting between the sides with a double from Conor Perlmutter and one from Israeli sensation Ori Kobi.
But manager Dan Uzan is taking nothing for granted ahead of the return. He told JC Sport: “UJIA have struggled recently, but we have to be professional and cannot take anything for granted.
"We need to build on our cup win and start moving up the league starting this weekend."
JC team news: Harmen are missing the Castle brothers and Alex Bowman who are all travelling to watch Spurs on Sunday. But they welcome back Conor Perlmutter who is “itching to get back involved against UJIA. With James Castle away, Ziggy Lichman will make a one-off return to the club in goal.
Venue – Ashmole School, Ref – Robert Benardout
JC star man: Conor Perlmutter (Harmen)
DC Prediction: Southgate Harmen 3 UJIA 0
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TEMPLE FORTUNE A vs GLENTHORNE UNITED A
The bigger they come, the harder they fall. That has always been Temple Fortune’s motto.
Sunday’s visit of league leaders Glenthorne will certainly not scare them. If anything, it might just inspire them. Think Celtic Barcelona.
The great thing about Lee Fegan’s team is that they never give up and work for one another. In Shai Davidi, Craig Edwards and Michael Goldberg, they have players capable of producing moments of magic, and they just need the rest to concentrate a bit more and keep things simple at the back.
Fortune must produce the perfect display to get something from this game and adopt a no-nonsense approach. When Glenthorne threaten, finding row Z will be order of the day. If they allow Glenthorne time and space in the final third, they will get punished.
Anyone who thinks the 3G surface at the Hive will favour favourite can think again as the Thornes beat Camden on a similar surface in Wembley a fortnight ago. And they kept a clean sheet, their third of the season.
In Dan Lassman, Craig Sandford, Dan Lipman and Fabio Reviccio, they have arguably the league’s most potent array of attacking options, plus a top keeper to boot.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Thornes boss Sam Rosenthal, who has named a full-strength squad, told JC Sport: “After a week off we're raring to go."
The first 20 minutes will be crucial for Fortune on Sunday. If they give Glenthorne any signs of encouragement or focus for a split second, they will come out second best.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – Keith Goodman
JC star man: Dan Lipman (Glenthorne)
DC Prediction: Temple Fortune A 1 Glenthorne Utd A 3
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DIVISION TWO
TOP-SCORERS
11 - Adam Hersh (Los Blancos)
7 - Adam Goldman (Glenthorne Utd B), Dan Hildebrand (Brady B)
ATHLETIC BILBAUM vs BLIZZARD STORM
"Baums will be to Blizzard Storm as Sandy was to New York City." Those were the words of Baums boss Athletic Bilbaum. Make of that what you will.
Some will say I haven't given the Athletic boys the credit they deserve, so here goes. They have been the model of consistency, not only this season, but for the last year or so. How am I doing so far??
In Jake Gilbert, they have one of the hottest properties around in the league. Word has it that some of the big boys are interested, and another wonder show will only hike his price up.
Under Mark Pasha and Ed Green, the team have become resolute and hard to beat. And as they have shown, they can match Premier Division opposition over 90 minutes.
But messus Pasha, Green and co will expect a tough game on Sunday against a Blizzard team they came from 2-0 down to draw against in mid-September. Ben Bell and Ed Green found the net in a well-contested match.
Simon Linden’s boys had flown out of the blocks, with Zak Presky and a stunner from Stuart Muller putting them in pole position, but they were unable to keep the Baums out.
The recent 3-0 win over Glenthorne B has clearly galvanised the Baums. Blizzard have blown hot and cold so far, but Michael Woolf’s hat-trick earned them a morale-boosting victory last time out.
And with Andrey Grayson and Oli Simons keen to impress, this has all the makings of another epic.
Venue – Copthall, Ref – Steve Levy
JC star man: Ben Bell (Bilbaum)
DC Prediction: Bilbaum 2 Blizzard 1
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CATFORD & BROMLEY MACCABI vs SPEC FC
Although this is an away game for SPEC FC, I can see them having a field day on the excellent surface at Norseman FC on Sunday.
Lawrence Conway’s warriors go into the match on the back of a fantastic win over UJIA – a tie which they had wrapped up within the first 15 minutes.
Dan Cohen and Craig Cohen made hay. Both fired hat-tricks in a one-sided contest. Although this will be tougher, I still expect them to walk away with three points.
“Sunday is another 'must-win' for us,” SPEC FC’s Ricky Lawrence told JC Sport. “We did well against Catford a few weeks ago and we know nothing but three points will do.
“They are a decent team though and the 4-0 scoreline last time around probably flattered us somewhat.
“We've been doing well in front of goal though recently which is a pleasant change for us so if we can keep it tight at the back which is what we're used to, hopefully the goals will keep coming.
“We've never won four in a row before so we're hoping to change that on Sunday."
The Cats have been leaking goals left, right and centre this season. Seven, six, five and four have flown in in recent weeks and the signs look ominous on Sunday.
A 4-5-1 formation seems something of a no-brainer as gaffer Lester Jacobs must ensure his back four are protected. It will be left to Jamie Sinai to feed off scraps against a well-drilled SPEC defence that has kept three clean sheets in the league.
I can only see one winner on Sunday.
Venue – Norseman FC, Ref – Andy Myerson
JC star man: Craig Cohen (SPEC FC)
DC Prediction: Catford & Bromley 0 SPEC FC 3
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GLENTHORNE UNITED B vs REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE B
There’s a winter warmer in store as east London rivals Glenthorne B and Redbridge B get ready to rumble for the first time this season.
There’s been talk of the losers taking the winners out for a night at Faces. The only problem with this is that several members of Jon Jacobs’ squad are too young!
Glenthorne have had plenty of time to reflect on and right the wrongs of their last outing – a 3-0 defeat against Bilbaum.
Joint-player-manager Jordan Sapler told JC Sport: Sunday will be a strange one for Liam and I - playing against Jon Jacobs’ team - as he was the one who brought us into the MSFL nearly five years ago, and there will definitely be handshakes before and after the game regardless of the result.
“Saying that, we will leave that behind once the first whistle blows and aim to get the three points we know we're capable of. I've played alongside and coached a few of the Redbridge boys so will be interesting to see if they've learnt anything from me!
“If we play to the top of our ability, I think we'll be a bit too strong for them all over the pitch and with it being a derby I'll make sure all our players will be up for it.”
Asked for a potential danger man from RJC, Sapler added: “We have to watch out for Daniel Jacobs. I worked with him during the October half-term and he spent five days trying to secure himself a transfer over to us, so he'll try to impress!"
RJC go into Sunday’s derby on the back of two heavy defeats. Jacobs have co have been working hard on the training ground and no doubt, they’ll be ready for Glenthorne.
The battle of the strikers will be key for me, with RJC hotshot Dan Gordon up against Adam Goldman, who will be looking to add to his tally in front of a bumper crowd.
JC team news: The Glenthorne team for Sunday has been affected massively by the Spurs against Man City game. They have Sam Rank, the Goldman brothers, Ross Segal going to the game and Ashley Stanton and James Berkley are still injured. Callum Stein returns from holiday and Brad Grant is also back.
Venue – Ford Sports & Social, Ref – David Lazarus
JC star man: Dan Gordon (RJC)
DC Prediction: Glenthorne Utd B 2 Redbridge JC B 2
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NORTH WEST NEASDEN B vs FC TEAM B
The phrase home banker is written all over this one as Division Two table-toppers go in search of goals against FC Team B.
Adam Levene's men have been the model of consistency this season, with goal threats all over the park.
Home fans will arrive in confident mood, expecting to see their heroes pick the Team off at will and avenge the recent defeat against the boys in yellow and blue.
With Oli Simons and Sam Foster in top form, I can see them romping home without needing to get out of first gear.
We've already seen the best and worst of FC Team this season. They looked the business against Neasden in September, but were well-beaten against SPEC FC last time out in the league and by Glenthorne before that.
They boast genuine goal-scoring threats, but I'm not sure if they'll get the service they need on Sunday.
I can see NWN looking to kick on between now and Chanukah. With Redbridge B, Blizzard and Catford, a minimum of nine points out of a possible 12 is a very realistic target.
Venue – Copthall, Ref – Richard Jaye
JC star man: Elliot Setyon (NWN)
DC Prediction: Neasden B 2 FC Team B 0
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LOS BLANCOS vs NORSTAR B
Blancos look good for three points for me on Sunday as they welcome FC Team B to West Hendon.
And if the first meeting is anything to go by, then it should be an absolute cracker.
Player-manager Adam Hersh led Blancos to a thrilling 5-4 victory in a game where Ben Annis put in a contender for goal of the season. There were also goals for Joel Kutner and Sami Birnbaum.
Blancos have smashed home nine goals in their last two games and look set for a concerted promotion push.
FC Team B, on the other hand, remain a work in progress. Victories over Neasden and SPEC tells you they can be dangerous opponents, but I think home advantage will play a part on Sunday as Blancos maintain their perfect home league record.
Venue – West Hendon, Ref – Henry Raffe
JC star man: Sami Birnbaum (Blancos)
DC Prediction: Blancos 2 Norstar B 0
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DIVISION THREE
TOP-SCORERS
14 - Jono Gaon (Tottenham Chutspah)
12 - Terry Jeffries (Temple Fortune B)
LOUGHTON ORIENT vs NORSTAR C
There’s a good basement battle in store in E17 when Dan Curtis’ Loughton Orient targets a third league win in a battle of the new boys.
Curtis has been busy flashing the cash this week after announcing the record signing of Redbridge Jewish Care stalwart Marc Silver. Having returned to full fitness, Silver is expected to be involved from the start, as long as he doesn’t over-do it at my party the night before.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Curtis told JC Sport: “We are buzzing after our win against Temple Fortune in the league and can’t wait to get out there and pick up from where we left off.
“The spirit in our squad is phenomenal and we will be gunning for all three points on Sunday to help our push up the table.
“We’re looking strong for Sunday with pretty much a full squad to pick from apart from Barry Green who is making good progress and should be back in training very soon.”
Norstar boss Zack Gothelf will be looking to build on from their last league outing – when earned their first points of the season and a clean sheet.
Manager Zack Gothelf couldn’t hide his excitement when he spoke to JC Sport on the eve of the game.
“We've now got all but one player back and fully fit after losing several key players at the beginning of the season, and it's gives me that pleasing but difficult challenge as a manager to pick the best side,” he said.
“We've played Loughton before and should have won. With that in mind, and with a team functioning much better than that defeat, we know it's a game we can win and start to play the winning football that we know we've got.”
It will be all to play for in Walthamstow on Sunday, but it will be interesting to see just which Silver brother grabs the headlines.
Venue – Peter May, Ref – Rob Caplin
JC star man: Marc Silver (Loughton)
DC Prediction: Loughton Orient 2 Norstar C 1
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OAKWOOD B vs TEMPLE FORTUNE B
What a difficult week it's been for Oakwood EDRS B. Manager Ian Tussie told me he knew they had financial problems when he got the job, but he never expected things to be this bad.
Gripped by administration, they’ve been forced to sell back-up forward Jason Lindsey to Norstar and their old away kit just to have enough money to pay for the pitch for Sunday. Rumours that the kit sold for more money are as yet unconfirmed!
But Tussie is trying to keep chins up, and told JC Sport: “What’s important is the lads have came in every day to training and have worked hard.
“Sunday is a tough game and a very important one. It’s not quite a six-pointer, but it’s certainly a four-pointer. Either way we have to win.
“I can't wait DC; it's getting cold, it's raining, it's the weather that sorts the rabonim from the barmitzvah boys. Huge.” Don’t you just love this man?
Fortune go into the game knowing that a victory could lift them above the Oaks in what is expected to be their toughest test yet.
Manager Terry Jeffries is keeping his cards close to his chest for what is expected to be a physical affair.
A quick glance down the table tells me a close affair is on the cards. Given the Oaks are unbeaten at home, Fortune will need to pull something special out of the bag in what could be a war of attrition.
JC team news: Oakwood are missing player-manager Ian Tussie (knee), Tim Glass (knee), Jamie Beale (away) and they are also without Marc Hymanson who has a broken bone somewhere in his foot, although its exact location is unknown. Vic Librae remains suspended following his unprovoked attack on a ball boy.
Venue – Parmiters, Ref – Adam Yuchetel
JC star man: Matt Geey (Oakwood)
DC Prediction: Oakwood B 2 Temple Fortune B 1
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JEWVENTUS vs TOTTENHAM CHUTSPAH
Jewventus have a strong squad to pick from Sunday and are going in search of revenge after their shocking loss to a good Chutspah side earlier in the season.
Having gone ahead twice and then pulling back to an incredible 5-5, Jewve thought they'd escaped with a point. Not the case. The young legs of TC carried on to get the a superb MSFL maiden win.
Jewve have sinced strengthened their squad and the Harry Redknapp of Jewish Football, 'I'm no wheeler dealer', Gabe John has made what many see as a world-class signing in keeper Daniel Cohen. Steady on G!
Somewhat injury-prone Cohen has dropped some divisions to prove even when he's super busy on a Sunday morning, he's still one the best around.
Speaking about his decision to join Jewve, Cohen, who this week found out he's been selected for the GB Open Cricket squad at next year's Maccabiah, told JC Sport: “I am delighted to have signed for Jewventus. There were a number of teams interested in signing me, including a couple of Premier Division sides, but I decided to join Gabriel, and Jewve, as I think it will be extremely enjoyable.
“I look forward to the remaining league games and hopefully, if it goes ahead, the Barry Goldstein Trophy.
Just to add, I was approached by UJS Norstar A's manager Phil Peters to join them. However, as a man who never forgets and always bares(sp) a grudge, I'd like to remind Phil Peters of the way he messed me around for the EMFT a couple of years ago (and lied to me)."
Sunday is an important day for the Chutspah boys. They are well-placed to kick on in the promotion race, but manager Ariel Tamman knows they must pick up points consistently on their travels.
Jono Gaon has been a revelation for them in their first season and he will be looking to give the new Jewve keeper a torrid morning.
There will be some great battles all over the park in a game that could go either way.
Big Match Odds
Fogey to score - Evens
Fogey to pass - 1000-1
Ezra to score a header – 1-2
Bobsie to play - 2500-1
Gary Conway to complain of something hurting - book closed
Ami Wynbourne to keep up with their RB - Evens
Gab Saul to score - 3-1
James Alexander to have a "huge event" to go on to - 11-7
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – Barry David
JC star man: Gabe John (Jewventus)
DC Prediction: Jewventus 2 Tottenham Chutspah 2
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AC MILL HILL vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB C
Cup kings Hendon C make the short journey to Mill Hill still reveling in the heroic victory over Division One giants Shirley Park.
Manager Craig Miller has been the man with the midas touch over the past couple of weeks, masterminding two big cup shocks and earning back-to-back JC Manager
of the Week accolades. Anyone interested can get 20-1 on him completing a hat-trick on Sunday.
Clearly, the Elf brothers - Alex and David - have taken the team to another level. Alex just can't stop scoring, while David has been putting chances on a plate.
Miller will send out his troops to attack, attack, attack as they look to climb the table.
He told JC Sport: "We're buoyant after two giant-killing wins and we're hoping we can take the game to AC Mill Hill at their ground.
"Although one or two regulars are missing this week, there is still enough depth to avenge the 8-3 defeat to Ben Zloof earlier this season.
"We know their game and style and if we can continue in our recent form we should have enough in the locker.
Mill Hill know three points could see them finish the weekend top of the pile, and with Zloof due a goal, Hendon must be on their guard.
Having put L'Equipe to the sword 5-0 last Sunday, manager Joe Levy reports "no injury concerns ahead of Sunday's game". He told JC Sport: "We're looking to put a run of wins together after a great team effort last week."
One thing is for sure on Sunday, this should be a great advert for the JC MSFL.
JC team news: Hendon have jury concerns over Ben Glekin and Alex Elf, whilst Daniel Major and Dean Miller are serving their last match of suspensions.
Venue – Copthall, Ref – Quentin Fox
JC star man: David Elf (Hendon)
DC Prediction: AC Mill Hill 2 Hendon C 3
