There's another bumper programme in store for JC MSFL teams this weekend with action in the Peter Morrison Trophy, JC Barry Goldstein Cup and league. Danny Caro looks ahead to all the action.
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DANNY CARO'S MOST ELIGIBLE BATCHELOR XI
VALENTINE'S DAY DREAM TEAM IN PHOTOS
PHOTOGALLERY: TEMPLE FORTUNE A vs BRIXTON OLD BOYS A
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MACCABIAH UPDATES:
GB FOOTBALL MANAGEMENT APPOINTMENTS
GB FUTSAL MANAGEMENT APPOINTMENTS
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JC MSFL GOAL OF THE WEEK
James Kaye (Brixton A) - a stunning 20-yard half-volley
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PETER MORRISON TROPHY QUARTER-FINAL DRAW
South Manchester Sports 1st vs Manchester Maccabi 1st
Chigwell Athletic vs Oakwood
Rebridge Jewish Care A vs Hyde Park Rovers
Brady Maccabi A vs North West Neasden A
Ties to be played on February 19
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JC CYRIL ANEKSTEIN CUP SEMI-FINAL DRAW
Brady Maccabi A vs Brixton Old Boys A (March 14)
Hendon United Sports Club A vs North London Raiders A (February 26)
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YOUR WEEKEND REVIEW STARTS HERE:
PETER MORRISON TROPH QUARTER-FINALS
BRADY MACCABI A vs NORTH WEST NEASDEN A
Cup kings Brady go into Sunday’s clash of the titans with nothing to lose as they prepare to take on old foes Neasden at the Lane.
Josh Rosenfeld’s troops are keen to put one over the former treble double winners.
It promises to be another high-octane affair with the likes of Lee Platt, TJ Keterman and Jonny Ellis keen to impress against their former club.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Rosenfeld told JC Sport: “Sunday is a big game. I have a lot of respect for Neasden, having played for them and seen them this season and with them being one of the most successful clubs in Jewish football.
“They have quality all over and Darren and Lee have put an excellent side together.
“Last time out they taught us a bit of a footballing lesson and showed us what being in the top division is all about. I believe we are a much stronger side since our defeat and also know on our day if we perform to our top level we can beat anyone in the division.
“It’s a cup quarter-final, anyone can win in a one-off game depending on which side wants it more.
“We will be well prepared and well drilled and I look forward to the game and I am sure Neasden are feeling the same.”
Neasden will pull out all the big guns for a competition that is their most realistic chance for silverware. The names of Matt Davis, Craig Ellis and James Gershfield will strike fear into Brady fans.
It’s clear that the Morrison is a competition that Neasden want to win badly and messus Yarlett and Cash are fully focused on the task at hand.
“Sunday will be about getting the job done and booking a place in the semi-final,” Yarlett told JC Sport. “If the lads show the same attitude when we played London Lions then I do not expect many problems. Brady will be bang up for this as we beat them earlier in the season."
Neasden’s squad is like a who’s-who of Jewish football. I can’t see them failing on Sunday.
JC team news: Brady are expected to be close to full-strength with the exception of Nicky Smith.
For Neasden, keeper Max Shields is suspended so Matt Davis steps in. Jake Gottlieb, Matt Sofier, Rob Lerner Adam Klein are all unavailable.
Neasden squad: (from) Matt Davis, Sammy Ross, Scott Schindler, Kyle Bentwood, Brad Sharp, Craig Ellis, Paul Babai, Ben Joseph, Danny Daggers, Jonny Haik, Lee Cash, Ben Ellis, Marc Lazare, Elliot Stern, David Fox, James Gershfield
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – M. Lavender, Asst-refs – S. Russell, M. Cowan
JC star man:
DC Prediction: Brady A 1 NW Neasden A 3
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CHIGWELL ATHLETIC vs OAKWOOD
Chigwell and Oakwood caused upsets in the last round but it’s hard to call a favourite going into Sunday’s clash.
The Chigs were value for money in the 4-2 win over Premier Division FC Team A and now player-manager Richard Slater is hungry for more.
“The lads are buzzing for Sunday,” Slater told JC Sport. “We're all really looking forward to the game.
“Oakwood are a side in form like ourselves, but with home advantage, a near enough fully fit squad to choose from and the experience we have, I really hope we take this chance to reach the semis of the Morrison'.
The Oaks claimed a famous 1-0 victory over an in-form Leeds 1st. A pot-shot from Bradley Wine took them through, along with a big helping hands from keeper Mark Miller.
The visitors should not expect any similar favours from Chigwell no. 1 Rob Shepherdson, who is among the most reliable in the league.
Managers Alex Schock and Ric Blank know their troops will have to put in another solid performance to book their place in the last four.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Blank told JC Sport: “We can't wait to get back playing on Sunday after two weeks off.
“The boys are champing at the bit to play and we're lucky to have such a big game ahead of us to welcome us back.
“Chigwell are a good side who've improved as the season has gone on and will fancy themselves at home. But we back ourselves against anyone and are just delighted to be in the cup at this stage.
“It’s a real bonus for us and we’re really enjoying being in the competition at this relatively late stage.
“We’ve got a big squad to choose from with no real injury concerns. This is the start of a huge few weeks for the club as we play Chigwell twice and Redbridge in between - so we'll have a good idea of how our season will shape up after these three games. We're very excited and we're up for whatever comes our way.”
I think Sunday will come down to small details. Jonny Beilin, Eddie Manson and Brad Wine helped the Oaks beat Chigs 3-1 on the opening day of the season and they will be looking to heap more misery on the east Londoners. There will be big battles all over the pitch and I can see it going the distance.
JC team news: For Chigwell, Richard Klein is suspended and Adam Goodman has work commitments. Slater is waiting on a few knocks to clear up and hopes to be almost full strength this week.
Chigwell: Rob Shepherdson, Lee Hyams, Alex Norman, Paul Lenchner, Jonathan Swead, Glenn Davis, Russell Brill, Daniel Castle (capt), Richard Slater, Craig Pearl, Anthony Mendel, Russell Yershon, Glenn Michaels, Neil Tilley, Jamie Fox, Lloyd Becker
Venue – Peter May, Ref – A. Lewis, KO – 10.15am
JC star man: Anthony Kintish (Oakwood)
DC Prediction: Chigwell Athletic 1 Oakwood 2 AET
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JC MSFL PREMIER DIVISION
TOP-SCORER
13 - Mike Pearson (Faithfold A)
12 - Danny Kon (Hendon A)
FAITHFOLD A vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB A
Faithfold will be looking to close the gap at the top when they welcome Hendon to the Hive.
It’s hard to believe that Sunday will be the first meeting between the teams and the Superhoops know that three points would put them firmly in the mix.
Faithfold boss Zuriel Solomon has had a big smile on his face so far this week following the arrival of a new baby boy and a hearty mazal tov goes to the Solomon family from everyone at the JC.
With the gaffer tied up in nappies and blue presents, I managed to get a few words from his assistant, Daryl Phillips.
“We look forward to our first meeting with Hendon this season,” he told JC Sport. “It’s always a hard game but if we perform we will win the game.
“They are a good team but so are we. I’m full of confidence and look forward to three points on Sunday.”
David Garbacz’s Hendon go into the game with a four-point lead and his troops can do the business and pull clear at the top.
The league is what Garbacz wants most but as soon as the final whistle blows, his focus will be on next week’s JC Cyril Anekstein Cup semi-final against North London Raiders A.
The Hendon gaffer sounded in determined mood in his midweek press conference. He told JC Sport: “We enter a very crucial part of our season with our next three fixtures Faithfold and Redbridge away in the league sandwiched in between with a CA cup semi final against NL Raiders.
“We are under no illusions how difficult that run of games will be and we will need to show character strength and skill to come through unscathed .
“Amazingly we are still only halfway through our league fixtures and despite being in pole position there is an awful lot of football still to be played.
“On Sunday we face one of our toughest rivals who still have title aspirations of their own, especially since they are out of both cups as well.
“We will expect a very close game and we will need to train hard this week to ensure that everyone is match fit after the recent weather break.
“We are a bit short at the back and they have some quality forwards. Defence might well be the best form of attack and anyone coming to the Hive on Sunday could well see an entertaining goal fest.
“It is games like this which determine title winners and we will be raring to go.”
The last couple of months of the season features a hectic schedule of big games for both these teams. All eyes will be on Faithfold striker Mike Pearson who will be out to prove a point against a Hendon team he had a short spell at. His battle against Danny Kon will be worth the admission fee alone.
There will also be a big focus on the keepers with Faithfold’s Ben Law looking to up the ante in the battle for the Safe Hands award against Russell Corin.
And there’s also the mouth-watering battle between Faithfold skipper Alex Levack and Ben Lauffer in the middle of the park. This could be key.
I can see Hendon’s height advantage being a key factor on Sunday. No doubt, Garbacz will be looking for good delivery as he knows that Law commands his box and comes out for most things. If Hendon can get this aspect of their game right, I think they will come away with the points in a game where the winning goal may come late on.
JC team news: Faithfold have a full-strength squad other than Alex Kaye, who is working in Africa.
The weather has actually done Hendon a small favour recently. Garbacz added: “It has given time for injuries to recover. For Sunday we are still without Paul Bentley and Josh Lipman but everyone else should now be available for selection.”
Venue – The Hive, Ref – A. Myerson
JC star man: Russell Corin (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Faithfold A 1 Hendon Utd SC A 2
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FC TEAM A vs REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE A
A rescheduled fixture sees two teams in the wrong half of the table go head-to-head at Meadow Park.
FC Team boss Mitch Young has been caught off guard and is doing his best to juggle things around in the build-up to what is another big game in the club’s history.
Young told JC Sport: “Due to the fixtures changing, we were not expecting a game this weekend so it is very annoying as a few of our players have arranged to go away. Nonetheless we will battle on against an extremely talented Redbridge side.
“Their league position is false and they are packed with quality. Anything we get from the game will be a bonus, but we are confident on our day we can cause damage to any side and if we defend well we could cause an upset.”
Redbridge are still playing catch-up. Eilon Kennet’s men have 10 games left as they look to close the gap at the top.
With Adam Hakimi and Daran Bern back for the rest of the season, I expect them to string together a series of results between now and the end of the season.
With striker Steve Summers returning to full fitness and Adam Bolle showing just what a class act he is, I can see the champions coming away from Borehamwood victorious.
JC team news: FC Team are missing Jake Weiner, Gideon Moss, Dave Ossack, Jules Noti and Jon Breger.
Venue – Meadow Park, Ref – K. Goodman
JC star man: Adam Bolle (RJC)
DC Prediction: FC Team A 1 Redbridge JC A 3
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NORTH LONDON RAIDERS A vs LONDON MACCABI LIONS A
Raiders are expected to return from their warm weather training camp just in time for Sunday’s big match against the Lions.
After the recent clashes against Brady and FC Team fell victim to the weather, chairman Jonny Adelman took the troops to La Manga where the team were put through their paces by coach Jose Andjoseb and they will come back fully focused on taking another step in their bid for survival.
Going into their first meeting of the season against Lions, the Raiders management know that they will need to nullify the threat posed by Lions top-scorer Alex Bowman, who has an excellent record against NLR from his Neasden days.
The Lions will arrive in Uxbridge knowing that three points could take them to the top of the table. Seven wins out of 11 tells you everything you need to know about them – they are certainly heading in the right direction under Josh Newman and Malcolm Newman.
With the quality and experience of keeper James Castle, Pete Lazard, Jacob Lew, Aviel Schwarz and Yoav Lebens, the team have given an excellent account of their season and will start the match as favourites.
Raiders have five games left and it’s vital they pick up maximum points, especially from their home games, if they are to avoid the drop. But they will need to pull out all the stops and get some luck if they are to stop the Lions.
Venue – Brunel Uni, Ref – S. Levy
JC star man: Yoav Lebens (Lions)
DC Prediction: NL Raiders A 1 LM Lions A 2
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SOUTHGATE HARMEN A vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS B
As if the season hasn’t been bad enough for Harmen results-wise, the loss of big-hitters Matt Davis and Craig Ellis is a blow I cannot see them recovering from.
With Luke Brookner also having jumped ship in recent weeks, Dan Uzan has a thankless task trying to replace these quality performers. The lure of the big lights at Neasden A proved irresistible for his Team GB stars.
Harmen’s only win came at their Enfield home against Raiders’ first string, but I expect Rob Richman’s boys to hold all the aces on Sunday.
Richman expects to have a near full-strength team for Sunday’s trip.
Ahead of the game, he had this to say. “The weather has meant 2012 hasn’t really got started yet so my first hope for Sunday is that we actually get the game on.
“We have played Harmen A twice this season already, once in the league and once in the cup, with each side coming away with one win.
“Harmen have had a tough season to date but they are a brilliantly run club with a top manager in Dan and I have no doubt Sunday will be a great game.”
Raiders still have 18 points to play for and with the likes of David Dinkin, Mike Hershman, Nicky Woolf and Gilad Kestenbaum in top form, I can see them running out worthy winners.
Venue – Southbury Leisure Centre, Ref – G. Silver
JC star man: Gilad Kestenbaum (Raiders)
DC Prediction: Southgate Harmen B 1 NL Raiders B 3
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DIVISION ONE
TOP-SCORERS
21 - Jamie Kent (Brixton)
16 – Dan Orgel (Redbridge JC B)
13 - Josh Green (Norstar A)
SOUTHGATE HARMEN B vs BRIXTON OLD BOYS A
Man-marking Jamie Kent. That’s the only way I can see Harmen getting something from this game on Sunday.
John Nitka’s goal machine was in red-hot form against Temple Fortune last Sunday and he’ll be looking to fill his boots again at the Mole.
While Kent took the plaudits, Nitka was keen to recognise the outstanding performance of Alon Hershkorn. He filled in admirably at the back in place of Ed Weisz and chipped in with a goal for good measure.
It’s fair to say that some of Brixton’s players will have one and a half eyes on next week’s big cup semi-final at Brady, but Nitka is far too experienced to let his team’s imagination wonder.
Nitka is keen to keep taking it one game at a time, but it’s fair to say that if this game was played on paper, Brixton would win 99 times out of 100.
These are incredibly tough times for Harmen right now. With the club’s A team bottom of the Premier and the B’s similarly placed in Division One, manager Marc Cohen will be asking for big hearts and a big performance on Sunday.
Doron Hershkorn and Paul Stein have done their best to give them a goal-scoring threat in recent outings but having conceded nine goals in the last two games, the signs don’t look good.
But it’s now or never for Cohen and co, with the fixtures getting no easier with Woodford to follow next weekend.
Damage limitation could be Harmen’s best bet on Sunday.
Venue – Ashmole School, Ref – A. Djanogly
JC star man: Rob Hershkorn (Brixton)
DC Prediction: Southgate Harmen B 1 Brixton Old Boys A 5
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TEMPLE FORTUNE A vs NORTH WEST NEASDEN B
The Temple Fortune players felt the full force of the Lee Fegan hairdryer after last weekend’s 7-0 demolition against Brixton. And if that wasn’t bad enough, they were forced to dodge several tea-cups thrown by Jack Morris.
The management team had more than their pride hurt last time out and both are keen to right the wrongs of last week and show Neasden just how good they are.
It couldn’t have been easy for the Fortune players see their fans leave long before the final whistle so I expect them to try and give value for money on Sunday.
Fortune’s Jack Morris told JC Sport: “I’m sure you can imagine, the atmosphere in the dressing room on Sunday afternoon was not too pleasant. However, some strong words have been said and our players know now is the time to step up and be counted.
“We’ve all agreed that last Sunday needs to be put out of our mind, and now we need to concentrate for our upcoming match against NWN B.
“We’ve had some bad luck over the past few weeks with players missing and Montana folding, but we need to forget that and fight for our right to stay in Division One.
“We have the squad capable of beating anyone in the division, as proved with our results against Chigwell and Redbridge.
“Again we are missing men on Sunday, but myself and Lee have every faith in the players who are available to go out there and get three points.”
Mathematically speaking, Neasden are still not out of the woods and manager Dan Hodes will be looking to register a fifth league victory.
The feel-good-factor is back in the Neasden camp, after a decidedly dodgy first couple of months.
There are some experienced and talented players in the Neasden camp and if they show the right attitude, I can see them making it another tough morning for Fegan, Morris and co.
Ref – L. Benson
JC star man: Andy Emden (Neasden)
DC Prediction: Temple Fortune A 1 NW Neasden B 2
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NORSTAR A vs WOODFORD WANDERERS
Norstar will be looking to close the gap on the top three when they welcome Woodford to the Ark Academy on Sunday.
Manager Phil Peters and his no. 2 Jamie Slavin have been running their eye over some of the MSFL’s top talent this week in their role as managers of the Team GB EMFT squad.
But it’s back to the bread and butter of the league as they look to finish the season strongly.
Adam Jason and Josh Green have been in prolific form for the Stars this season and they will be keen to impress against a Woodford team that boasts Mitch Hahn, Elliot Gold and Jerome Marks.
The Wanderers have taken some big scalps this season, but they are still in danger and manager Alex Aviram must go flat out to get as many points as possible on the board.
Norstar’s home record won’t scare Woodford. In fact it will fill them with belief that if they play their cards right, they could get something for their efforts. Especially with Marks keen to impress the GB management!
Venue – Ark Academy, Ref – R. Benardout
JC star man: Jerome Marks (Woodford)
DC Prediction: Norstar A 2 Woodford Wanderers 2
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DIVISION TWO
TOP-SCORERS
19 - Doron Weinstein (Redbridge Jewish Care C)
14 - Ben Simons (Faithfold C), Raph Noe (Hendon B)
CAMDEN PARK vs GLENTHORNE UNITED A
Match of the day in Division Two sees leaders Camden looking to extend their lead against fellow high-flyers Glenthorne at the Hive.
Josh Marks' men have been the model of consistency this season but they know they will have to be in top form if they are to see off a determined Glenthorne team.
Josh Toff was the two-goal hero when the teams met earlier in the season and if Camden can complete a league double, it would move them a big step closer to the coveted title.
"We're raring to get back to some football," Camden's Nick Kagan told JC Sport. "The spirit in the squad is such that no-one is even remotely enjoying their lie-ins.
"Glenthorne are an impressive outfit and play football in the right way, so it should be a great game with lots of attacking intent from both sides.
"We need to keep focused after the recent cancellations, and to that end the gaffer wants to make it clear that the team will be picked based primarily on performances at training on Thursday.
"I'm no weatherman, but apparently things are looking good for Sunday. We want to make it rain goals!"
Glenthorne player-manager Dan Lipman knows his boys didn't do themselves justice in the previous meeting, but he's determined to set the record straight on Sunday.
The east Londoners need to string together a series of results to keep the pressure on Camden, Faithfold B and Hendon B, but they have a couple of tricky games coming up, with a match against Lions B to following.
The Thornes didn't get out of first gear against Camden last time out so I'm expect a big reaction and some big performances from the boys in blue and white stripes.
"It's a very big game," Lipman told JC Sport. "Win and we're back in the title race. Lose and promotion will be the target."
Goals-wise, both teams have similar records but Camden appear to have more of a cutting edge and if they can find space behind the Glenthorne backline, I can see them edging home in a game that could go to the wire.
JC team news: Camden report "everyone fit" except for the long-term injured. Luke Brookner and Ben Harris still await their first start.
Venue – The Hive
JC star man: Dan Baneth (Camden)
DC Prediction: Camden Park 2 Glenthorne Utd A 1
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L’EQUIPE vs REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE C
"Nothing else than three points will be acceptable." That is the view of RJC player-manager Dan Gordon going into Sunday's meeting with basement battlers L'Equipe.
The RJC gaffer knows full well that his team can ill-afford any more slip-ups as they look to finish as high up the table as possible.
I bumped into Flash earlier this week and he appeared to deflect the subject of promotion. Mind games or more? You decide.
Gordon sounded particularly upbeat and it's clear that he cannot wait to see his team in action.
He told JC Sport: "This Sunday sees us at full strength for the first time in three months when we take on league strugglers L’Equipe.
"With the bad weather that’s been in place we actually haven’t played for nearly a month so I'm hoping fitness in the squad isn’t to bad.
"Leading scorer Doron Weinstein is back from a hamstring strain and I'll be making my first appearance in three months following a back injury.
"With three games left, including two against the bottom teams, I would like to see us finish the season on a high.
"I will be taking a squad of 14 to north London and am expecting to come back with three points. Nothing else is acceptable."
The Redbridge attack will be licking their lips as they look to heap more misery on a L'Equipe defence that has conceded 17 goals in the last three games.
They appear to have suffered the mother of all new year's hangovers and rumour has it that manager David Prager has been scouring the market in a bid to bring in a proven defender to help them bolster up at the back.
Some of L'Equipe's best performances have been at home. But then again, so have some of their worst. If the visitors break the deadlock early on, L'Equipe fans can expect the worst.
Venue – Copthall, Ref – L. Thorne
JC star man: Adam Goldman (RJC)
DC Prediction: L'Equipe 1 Redbridge JC C 3
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LONDON MACCABI LIONS B vs NORSTAR B
With Lions eyeing a top five finish, lowly Norstar can expect no favours when they travel to Rowley Lane on Sunday.
Jonny Bunt's men are keen to avoid rustiness setting in after recent cancellations and they looked sharp in a behind-closed-doors friendly.
Bunt will be the first to admit that his team hasn't performed well enough and consistently enough but deep down he's hoping that a visit to the home of Jewish sport can bring out the best in his troops.
This is the beginning of a crucial spell for the Stars who take on fellow strugglers Faithfold C next Sunday. You never know, a point could be priceless come the end of the season.
I've heard enough of Lions this season to realise that on their day they can beat anyone in the division.
Manager Jamie Kyte knows how to get the best out of his players and with striker James Gold in red-hot form, that could be bad news for travelling fans.
Green and co know that Norstar have conceded five times in each of their last three games, so they will be looking score an early goal in the knowledge that it could lead to the floodgates opening.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – N. Burns
JC star man: Joey Lazare (LML)
DC Prediction: LM Lions B 4 Norstar B 1
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DIVISION THREE
TOP-SCORERS
22 - Craig Sandford (Glenthorne B)
20 - Saul Conway (Shirley Park)
15 - Stefan Benfredj (Shirley Park)
HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB C vs CATFORD & BROMLEY MACCABI
Having survived the dreaded drop, players from both Hendon and Catford can relax and treat their supporters to an open and entertaining game of football.
With Team JLGB filling the division's relegation slot, players and fans alike from both these teams breathed a huge sigh of relief as I'm not sure that either club would've handled it well.
Onwards and upwards. That has to be the motto from here on in.
Scoring goals has been the biggest issue for both teams although they don't appear to have the same problem in terms of keeping them out.
Motivation levels remain high in the Catford camp despite the shock departure of goal-getter Eli Baraty.
Joint-manager Adam Lewis had this to say ahead of the game. "After yet another blank week we should have everyone ready and raring to go.
"It was a hard fought game against Hendon last time and one which we should have had wrapped up comfortably by half time.
"But we didn't put away one of our many chances and Hendon got a scrappy own goal and probably could have had one or two more.
"We're looking for revenge this week and should have almost a full strength squad out to get the points."
Highlights have been few and far between for Hendon. Either side of the Catford game they've conceded 18 goals and it would be fair to say that the end of the season cannot come soon enough for manager Avi Gelley.
The Hustlers have failed to register in six league games this season while the goals of Jamie Sinai have given Catford fans reason to be cheerful.
I don't expect this to be a classic by any stretch of the imagination but it wouldn't surprise me if a few goals fly in.
Venue – West Hendon, Ref – Q. Fox
JC star man: David Powell (Catford)
DC Prediction: Hendon Utd SC C 2 Catford & Bromley 3
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DIVISION FOUR
TOP-SCORERS
20 - Dan Hildebrand (Brady B - includes 7 for Faithfold)
17 - Terry Jeffries (Temple Fortune B)
16 - Ben Hart, (NL Raiders C), Edward Green (Bilbaum)
BRADY MACCABI B vs ATHLETIC BILBAUM
There won't be an empty seat in the house as title rivals Brady B and Bilbaum get ready to rumble.
Both teams have been going great guns this season and on the surface, it appears that there will be very little to separate the teams.
Bilbaum have been something of a surprise package, although with the likes of Edward Green and Jake Gilbert scoring for fun, it's not hard to see just why they've done so well.
But joint-manager Mark Pasha knows that nothing will be won and lost in February in Division Four.
Indeed, Gilbert went home with the match ball when the team's met in late November as the Baums recorded a famous win over the title favourites.
Pasha was beaming at the final whistle. "This is up there in the Baums' greatest hits," he told JC Sport. "Each and every player can be proud of his performance this morning. It was a gritty yet accomplished team effort.
"Brady played some excellent football at times, went 1-0 up and had their chances, but as has been the case throughout the season the Baums displayed great character and determination to get back into the game and notch up a thoroughly deserved three points, despite the underdog status."
Gilbert, Eli Lew, Joe Bekhor and Adam Landes were in inspirational form and more of the same will be order of the day from Pasha and Green.
Revenge is the name of the game for a Brady team with games in hand. Player-manager Josh Dagul wants nothing less than the title. Promotion will be mere consolation.
Looking ahead to kick-off, Dagul told JC Sport: "We will need to be up for the game because Bilbaum are a good side who beat us earlier on in the season.
"However, we didn't turn up that day and I am expecting a much better performance on Sunday."
Brady have won five out of six at the Lane and have really turned on the champagne football in front of their fans, with captain marvel James Joseph and Reiss Mogilner particularly impressive. The recent signings of Daniel Hildebrand and Dan Harrod could turn them into an irresistible force, bearing in mind they have an abundance of experience in Jonny Meltzer and Jerome Colmans. The spine of the team is rock solid.
But I've also learnt not to write Bilbaum off. They too are hard to beat which leads me to believe that a very even contest is about to unfold.
It should be a cracker, so may the best team win.
JC team news: Brad are close to full strength with the exception of Jason Davis (ankle ligaments). However, Daniel Harrod should finally make his debut after his big money move from Faithfold.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – S. Feiger
JC star man: Dan Harrod (Brady)
DC Prediction: Brady B 2 Athletic Bilbaum 2
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BRIXTON OLD BOYS B vs FC TEAM C
I was expecting much more from Brixton B this season but they have failed to deliver.
In the battle of the new teams, I expect FC Team C to win hands down.
Player-manager Michael Myers has put together a very capable squad and they never go down without a fight.
In Matt Sheldon and Rob Sanford, they have two talented players with experience from the top divisions and this has helped them along the way in what has been a real team effort.
David Wexler, Adam Aminoff, Avi Nejad and Sheldon were the scorers on Matchday Two of the season when Team ran out worthy winners by a 4-1 scoreline. I think Sunday will be a case of deja vu against an out-of-sorts Brixton B.
Team are unbeaten in three and they're playing with confidence. Brixton can't stop conceding at the minute and their fans may want to look away before I make a prediction.
Venue – Clowes, Ref – B. Pieters
JC star man: Adam Aminoff (FC Team)
DC Prediction: Brixton OB B 0 FC Team C 4
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JEWVENTUS vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS C
It's been a big week for Jewve boss Gabriel John, whose Tyger Paw company received nationwide acclaim in a well-known magazine.
John hopes to see his team's name up in lights on Sunday as they look to place a dent in Raiders' promotion ambitions.
It would be fair to say that if Jewve had started the season with the team that is finishing it, they would've been in the mix.
The team are playing some scintillating football with smiles on their faces and the fear factor has disappeared.
Raiders won the corresponding fixture but the boys in black and white will be looking to even things up in their own back-yard.
Darren Russell, Toby Katz, Ben Hart supersub Jonny Sandrove and Matt Keston were the scorers for Raiders that day, but it's clear that only three points will do in their pursuit of Bilbaum, SPEC FC and Brady B.
But the L'Orange has claimed only one win since the turn of the year and manager Oli Shorts is considering one last splurge on the transfer market to ensure there are no more slip-ups.
This game will be one for the neutrals as Jewve's star men Mike Gill and Ami Wynbourne look to get one over Raiders' top-scorer Ben Hart and Toby Katz.
But as we've seen, both sides have quality all over the park and Sunday could be the day when one of the unsung heroes stands and delivers.
A draw would be small consolation to the Raiders. Shorts will call for something special in a game that could boil down to which team wants it most.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – S. Ansher
JC star man: Ami Wynbourne (Jewve)
DC Prediction: Jewventus 2 NL Raiders C 2
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JC BARRY GOLDSTEIN CUP
GROUP A
Table
FC Team B Pl, 0. Pts. 0
NL Raiders C Pl, 0. Pts. 0
Shirley Park Pl, 0. Pts. 0
SPEC FC Pl, 0. Pts. 0
FC TEAM B vs SHIRLEY PARK
Division Three promotion hopefuls Shirley Park will be looking to hit the ground running with an upset on the cards against second division FC Team B.
Although Ben Simon's men are the top-ranked side in the group, it would not surprise if they finished bottom.
The Team has huffed and puffed in the league, but Shirley have strength in depth and I can see them blowing home side away.
Player-manager Dave Lusman was bitterly disappointed when his men tumbled out of the Morrison and he believes they are good enough to go all the way to Wingate & Finchley.
With Saul Conway, Gideon Gold, Stefan Benfredj and Ilan Shaki, I think they have the perfect ingredients in place to do very well in the competition.
It's Shirley for me.
Ref – N. Cohen
JC star man: Sacha Benfredj (Shirley)
DC Prediction: FC Team B 1 Shirley Park 3
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GROUP B
Table
Athletico Finchley Pl, 0. Pts. 0
Glenthorne Utd B Pl, 0. Pts. 0
Los Blancos Pl, 0. Pts. 0
UJIA Pl, 0. Pts. 0
GLENTHORNE UNITED B vs LOS BLANCOS
On Sunday, Los Blancos will try to do what they failed to do twice in the league against Glenthorne B this season. Score a goal.
The east Londoners claimed respective 2-0 and 3-0 victories over Joel Minsky's men and they will be looking to complete a hat-trick of wins when the teams meet.
Joint-manager and top-scorer Craig Sanford and Simon Bagel found the net in match one, with Fabio Revieccio, Daniel Lassman and Sandford again doing the damage in the follow-up.
I've heard reports that Sandford has already been for his suit fitting. That is how confident he is about the Thornes reaching the final. Few could argue with him given their league form and one can say that the draw hasn't been unkind to them.
But Blancos are a proud bunch and they will be looking to put one over the Division Three champions-elect. How they go about it is another question.
Glenthorne have shown that they have very few weaknesses. Sandford and Sam Rosenthal worked long and hard last summer, putting together a top-class squad. Thirteen consecutive league victories tells me that this is about a strong a team you could wish to see playing in Division Three.
Josh Cohen has a habit of putting in stunning displays in big matches for Blancos but not even his heroics will be enough to stop the lean, mean Glenthorne machine on Sunday.
Venue – London Marathon Playing Fields, Ref – D. Lazarus
JC star man: Daryl Rubin (Glenthorne)
DC Prediction: Glenthorne Utd B 3 Los Blancos 1
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UJIA vs ATHLETICO FINCHLEY
UJIA, last season's runners-up, are in for a tough test against ambitious Division Four outfit Athletico Finchley on Sunday.
Darren Rolfe's troops came oh so close to silverware last season, and he's turned down the opportunity to rotate his squad as it's clear a return trip cannot come soon enough.
Seeded two in the group, the U's boast one of the most experienced squads in the competition with Jeremy Leigh, Assi Avital and Gavin Sherman showing no sign of winding down their illustrious careers.
Indeed, Rolfe was keen to play down any talk of the Radstone brothers leaving the club in the summer, with SPEC FC believed to be the top targets to seal their signatures.
However, it won't be all about UJIA on Sunday. I can assure you of that. As Athletico have told me about a joker in their pack who is able to reveal some of UJIA's hidden secrets.
Club chairman Zach Margolin has held a series of meetings with midfield engine Charlie Hollis, who is excited to start against his former club.
Athletico famously snatched Hollis from UJIA back in November and now he cannot wait to face them.
Hollis told JC Sport: "It's a game I've been looking forward to since the draw was made and I can't wait show UJIA what they have been missing."
Margolin was quick to pull Hollis away from the JC microphones in case he said something to stoke the fires.
Margolin went on to say: "We hope that having Hollis on Sunday will work to our advantage as he knows how UJIA play, and with organisation and discipline we hope to get a result.
"We hope to have Jake Barnett back after a while out and welcome back all the guys who were away for last Sunday.
"It will be a tough game as they are a division above and doing well there. However, anything can happen in the cup."
Although UJIA start as favourites on Sunday, I think Athletico have been keeping something in their locker in recent weeks. Margolin has made some astute signings this season and he hopes that Hollis' inside knowledge helps them record a famous win.
Tickets for the away sold out several weeks ago. I can see the visitors pushing UJIA all the way, but in the end I think experience will win the day.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – P. Dobkin
JC star man: Charlie Hollis (Athletico)
DC Prediction: UJIA 3 Athletico Finchley 2
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GROUP C
Table
Catford & Bromley Maccabi Pl, 0. Pts. 0
Faithfold B Pl, 0. Pts. 0
Jewventus Pl, 0. Pts. 0
Temple Fortune B Pl, 0. Pts. 0
FAITHFOLD B vs TEMPLE FORTUNE B
Group C favourites Faithfold B are odds-on making a winning start at home to fourth division Temple Fortune B.
Rob Shooman's men are bang in form with Dan Stock, Adam Grossman, Richard Winton and the experienced Matty Kleinman in red-hot form in front of goal and I can see the Superhoops leading an experienced Fortune a merry dance.
Fortune excelled in the competition last season but the draw has not been kind to them this time and I can't see them getting out of the group.
Faithfold have won their last three, haven't conceded in two and I think this will be done and dusted inside an hour.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – N. Cooper
JC star man: Richard Winton (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: Faithfold B 4 Temple Fortune B 0
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GROUP D
Team JLGB Pl. 0, Pts. 0
Athletic Bilbaum Pl. 0, Pts. 0
NW Neasden C Pl. 0, Pts. 0
Blizzard Storm Pl. 0, Pts. 0
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NORTH WEST NEASDEN C vs TEAM JLGB
Revenge is a dish best served cold. I expect that to be the opening line in Louis Taylor's teamtalk on Sunday.
Taylor and co were left with egg on their faces not too long ago when they became the first team to lose to JLGB this season. Taylor won't stand for anything less second time around.
Strikes from Dan Curtis and James Lester sealed a famous win for JLGB last time out. The sense of relief was huge and for some, it felt like winning a cup final.
But I fear they will be brought down to earth by a Neasden team with a point to prove. Deep down, Taylor believes his squad has what it takes to reach Wingate.
In keeper Mike Perkin, Oli Joseph and Adam Levene, Taylor has three wily customers who will ensure the team stays grounded and do what is needed to get out of the group. Neasden have yet to see the best of Elliot Setyon this season but he could be the man to grab the headlines if Taylor gives him a start.
Automatic promotion is out of Neasden's hands in the league, but reaching Wingate is firmly in their sights. I think normal service will be resumed on Sunday.
Venue – Copthall, Ref – A. Yuchetel
JC star man: Elliot Setyon (Neasden)
DC Prediction: NW Neasden C 3 Team JLGB 1
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