It's part two of clash of the titans on Sunday with title hopefuls Hendon A and Neasden A locking horns for the second consecutive week. There is also a full league programme scheduled on Matchday 8 of the JC MSFL season. Danny Caro looks ahead to all the action.
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JC CYRIL ANEKSTEIN CUP ROUND 2 DRAW
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WEEK 7 MATCH REPORTS:
Glenthorne Utd A vs LM Lions B
Southgate Harmen B 13 Boca Jewniors 2
Maccabi Masters 1 Brady Maccabi B 4
Redbridge JC B 0 Shirley Park 4
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YOUR WEEKEND PREVIEW STARTS HERE:
JC MSFL PREMIER DIVISION
NORTH WEST NEASDEN A vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB A
Revenge is the name of the game for Neasden who were edged out 2-1 by Hendon last week.
Darren Yarlett’s, Neasden’s joint-manager, felt that his troops were the better team although they were unable to fully recover after the Hammers flew out of the blocks with goals from Greg Corin and Danny Kon.
SEE PHOTOS FROM LAST WEEK'S MATCH
Neasden will arrive with a full-strength squad with central defender Scott Shindler returning, along with midfield dynamo Paul Babai.
Speaking after last week’s game, Yarlett told JC Sport: “I thought we were superb and were by far the better side; at times we passed the ball so well and were in total control of the game but you have to give Hendon credit who had two chances and scored both.
"The last half hour we were camped in their half and we were knocking on the door, when it went 2-1 I thought we would go on and win the game.
"I'm disappointed with the result but very happy with the way we played. My lads now go into next week's rematch knowing we can win and I have no doubt about that if we play the same way we will get three points.
Hendon boss David Garbacz singled out defender Motti Colman and Corin for special praise after last week’s hard fought victory.
He expects another tough battle and knows that last weekend’s efforts will count for little if they go down here.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Garbacz told JC Sport: “It is only half time in this mini-battle and anything but a win again on Sunday and we will be disappointed.
“Last week was a totally committed match between two closely matched teams but I always felt we were comfortable when leading and could have upped another gear if we really needed to.
“It is a blow to be without Ben Lauffer this week but hopefully we have the squad to cope.
“Neasden will be confident of reversing matters this week but as long as we play to our capabilities and defend well as a unit - like we have been doing so far this season - then we should be able to edge another potential classic.”
Hendon landed a psychological blow in round one. I think Sunday’s reunion will be won and lost in midfield.
JC team news: Hendon are missing Ben Lauffer and Ben Kon, who are both away, and Dovid Korman is doubtful with bruised ribs.
Venue – Hadley FC, Ref – N. Burns
JC star man: Russell Corin (Hendon)
DC Prediction: NW Neasden A 1 Hendon Utd SC A 1
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NORTH LONDON RAIDERS B vs FAITHFOLD A
Faithfold’s brilliant start to the season continued last weekend when they claimed an impressive victory in the London FA Sunday Intermediate Cup.
Striker Michael Pearson bagged a brace with talisman Alex Levack finding the net once more in a 4-2 victory.
The Superhoops have won every game this season and they look the real deal once more. They have strength in depth this year and competition for places across the park.
Home fans will arrive in confident mood and expect their heroes to record a comfortable victory on Sunday.
Looking ahead to kick-off, Faithfold boss Zuriel Solomon told JC Sport: "We welcome NL Raiders to the Hive and will show them as much respect as any team coming to the Hive. They have had some good results and will not underestimate them.
"We come of the back of a good win last week so we will take that confidence into the game on Sunday."
"We have a full squad. We're just waiting on Alex Kaye who is just coming back from an injury. But apart from that we have a full squad."
Raiders B are riding the crest of a wave after completing an early season double over their crest-fallen A team.
Striker David Dinkin won my award for JC Player of the Week after bossing the show. He scored one, set up another and did not stop working for his team. Dan Polak and Shim Bensoor wrapped up a 3-1 victory.
Defenders Dan Grossman and Stuart Haring also impressed, while Gilad Kestenbaum put in a monster display in a midfield that his father would’ve been proud of.
But manager Rob Richman knows that his team will have to step up a notch or two to live with a Faithfold team that recently stuck seven past Raiders A.
Richman told JC Sport: “We have the utmost respect for Faithfold. They are packed full of talent and they have had a wonderful start to the season. It should be a really good test for us and one that everyone is really excited about.
“We come straight off a morale boosting win versus our A team and a couple of decent performances against Neasden and Hendon, and our hope is we can replicate those last three displays again to try and get something from the game”
This will be a great one for the neutrals and promises to be a great advert for the MSFL.
JC team news: Raiders are missing Nicky Woolf, Jonny Hesselberg and Rik Sherman. Elliot Espinoza should return after a few weeks out as should David Esterkin. Josh Aziz faces a late fitness test.”
Venue – The Hive, Ref – A. Lewis
JC star man: Dan Howard (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: NL Raiders B 1 Faithfold A 3
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FC TEAM A vs LONDON MACCABI LIONS A
FC Team boss Mitch Young is happy as Larry right now. Three wins from their first six league games see them sitting in a healthy position in the table with 10 points on the board. It has certainly been a good start to the year for him.
Last weekend they registered their first clean sheet of the season in the win over Brady – a result that had Young purring at the final whistle.
Goals from Simon Peterman and Richard Salmon set up a 2-0 win. Young told JC Sport: “"I am delighted with the win. We knew it would be a battle against Brady as it always is and my players were up for it and fought hard for 90 minutes.
"Both teams were missing players and there was a lack of quality on the ball at times but nonetheless, we created a few chances and scored at important times of the match.
"I am very happy with our first clean sheet, we are unbeaten in now and we move onto 10 points which is huge at this early start of the season.
"I am very proud of how hard my players worked today. Overall job done, another three points and we move on to the next game where we hope to welcome back at least three players to the squad."
It was a very different Lions A team that lined-up in the Sunday FA Cup last weekend to the one that plays in the MSFL. Only four first-team regulars, including the evergreen Aviel ‘Peter Pan’ Schwarz took part in a tie that also featured young keeper Dan Lipman, Nick Landesberg, Daniel Green, Charlie Rubin, Matt Green, Josh Morris, Max Kyte and Rob Blackman. With Josh and Malcolm Newman unavailable, Jon Green and David Kyte took charge of the team but they were blown away 12-2 by top-class opposition.
But Lions fans need not fear as some familiar faces will return on Sunday for the short trip to Meadow Park.
It’s hard to believe that this is FC Team’s first season in the top-flight. It certainly doesn’t look like it I can see them edging it on Sunday.
Venue – Meadow Park, Ref – R. Benardout
JC star man: Jake Weiner (FC Team A)
DC Prediction: FC Team A 2 LM Lions A 1
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REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE A vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS A
How these team’s fortunes have contrasted since that famous 5-5 draw on the opening weekend of the season.
If you remember, defending champions Redbridge flew out of the traps and stormed into a 3-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes. The Raiders then turned the game on its head with goals either side of half-time. They led the game 4-3 and 5-4 but a last-minute equaliser from Fabio Revieccio earned the east Londoners a point.
Eilon Kennet’s men have won every game since. Raiders have lost all their matches but are determined to put things right on Sunday.
Redbridge came back from 2-0 down against Harmen A last Sunday with goals from summer signings Lee Bibring (2), Revieccio and the JC Goal of the Week from Steve Summers.
The form book says that Raiders should be shaking in their boots ahead of the long trip to Fairlop for a 10am KO.
L’Orange were humbled for the second time this season by their B team last weekend. In the end, Danny Bloom’s strike offered little more than scant consolation in a game where they must have had more than a dozen good chances. On the plus side, they offered much more creativity looked menacing up front compared to the display against FC Team the previous week.
The harsh reality is that the table doesn’t lie. They haven’t been good enough so far this season. Six defeats out of seven means that it is a long way back and although they have been hit hard with injuries to Danny Berliner, Adam Joselyn, Joe Tankel and one or two others, while the loss of Alex Olcot, their star man last season, has really hit them hard. But the bottom line is that there is no time for hard luck stories.
But when all is said and done, I can only see one winner.
Venue – Fairlop
JC star man: Brad Frankel (Redbridge)
DC Prediction: Redbridge JC A 3 NL Raiders A 1
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DIVISION ONE
NORSTAR A vs OAKWOOD
A mouth-watering battle awaits the fans as promotion rivals Norstar take on the Oaks in Wembley.
But teams came through unscathed in the cup last weekend with the Stars beating their B team 4-1, while the Oakwood boys were made to work by fourth division Athletic Bilbaum.
Phil Peters’ men know that victory on Sunday would see them leapfrog their opponents and the mind games are already under way.
Peters told JC Sport: “We’re missing a few players this week but are hoping that most of the Oakwood lot will be going home for the Manchester derby!
“We beat them last time and will be aiming to beat them again although we picked up a couple of injuries last week against the B’s and Jeff Gotch is waiting to find out whether his nephew’s jaundice will clear in time for a Sunday morning brith.
“Hopefully it will be another good game between two quality teams playing top quality football.”
Norstar go into the game with a 100 per cent record in the league. Their record includes a 3-2 victory over the Oaks in which Jeremy Elster (2) and Josh Green found the net.
It is clear that management team of Ric Blank and Alex Schock will have their troops ready for what could turn into a royal rumble.
Blank told JC Sport: “It’s a big game on Sunday and we can’t wait. We like playing on 3G and are looking forward to getting the ball down and trying to play.
“We learnt a lot about Norstar a few weeks ago and are looking forward to another crack at them.
“We are without captain Adam Levine, Dan and Matt Geey and Rob Davidson but are up for it nonetheless.”
Let battle commence.
Venue – Ark Academy, Ref – B. David
JC star man: Eddie Manson (Oakwood)
DC Prediction: Norstar A 2 Oakwood 2
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NORTH WEST NEASDEN B vs CHIGWELL ATHLETIC
Leaders Chigwell will be looking to strengthen their grip at the top when they entertain struggling Neasden B.
Richard Slater’s troops came from behind to beat local rivals Glenthorne B in the Morrison last Sunday. Star man Glenn Michaels is smack bang in the middle of a purple patch and his hat-trick helped steady the ship. Summer signing Anthony Mendel popped up with another to complete a 4-1 win.
Michaels is hot property right now, clearly one of the top strikers in the league and if Neasden are to have any chance, it’s clear they must keep him quiet.
It’s clear that Slater won’t be counting his eggs before kick-off. “Neasden gave us a tough test a few weeks back, so we’re expecting the same again on Sunday,” he told JC Sport. “Even this early on, it’s a game we must win.”
Neasden’s season went from bad to worse last week as they were bounced out of the Peter Morrison Trophy by a Blizzard Storm team that had yet to win a game.
Added to that, striker Jonny Cutter was recently sold to London Maccabi Lions B although they have replaced him with experienced marksman Jonny Blain.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Neasden player-manager Daniel Hodes told JC Sport: "After being short of players and being forced to finish last week's game with nine, we are hoping with players back available, and with new signing Ricky Engleman, we can give a better account of ourselves and find some of the form we did against Fortune."
The Chigs have the bit between their teeth right now and I can’t see Neasden posing too many problems.
JC team news: For Chigwell, Simon Felstein and Jon Swead miss out through work commitments, while striker Lloyd Becker and Rob Shepherdson are out injured. But they welcome back Lee Hyams and Jamie Fox from injury. Both have missed the last three games.
Chigwell squad: Marc Jacobs, Dean Michaels, Glenn Davis, Lee Hyams, Alex Norman, Paul Lenchner, Daniel Castle, Richard Slater, Craig Pearl, Antony Mendel, Adam Goodman, Russell Yershon, Glenn Michaels, Jamie Fox
Ref – H. Raffe
JC star man: Lee Hyams (Chigwell)
DC Prediction: Chigwell Athletic 4 NW Neasden B 1
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REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE B vs TEMPLE FORTUNE A
Redbridge were brought down to earth in the cup last week but manager Stirling Kay will be asking his team to put that result behind them as they have been first-class in the league so far this season.
Under Kay, the Redbridge boys have won three out of three and conceded just once in 270 minutes.
They were ripped apart by third division Shirley Park last Sunday, with Kay admitting that his boys struggled to adapt to the state of the pitch.
Fortune will be interested to know that RJC struggled to cope with Shirley’s long throws last Sunday and I’m sure Matt Gilberry will be looking to stick one or two under the nose of young RJC keeper Oli Franks.
Fortune came away from a tricky looking tie against a good SPEC FC team 3-0 with strikes from Paul Walker, John Fisher and summer signing Jason Miller. According to one Fortune fan, Fisher’s goal was worth the admission fee. Keeper Roni Stone produced one of his best displays in a Fortune jersey as the boys in yellow and red kept a rare clean sheet.
Going in search of what would be a second league victory, Fortune boss Lee Fegan told JC Sport: “Last Sunday we showed good character and we expect our team to show the same again on Sunday.
“The boys are looking forward to a game which we know will be very physical but the boys are up the challenge.”
Jack Morris, Fortune’s assistant-manager, added: “It will be a tough game but we hope to put on a good show and we know on our day we can beat anyone.”
JC team news: For Fortune, Dan Natoff and Ben Isaacs. Michael Goldberg face late fitness tests. Striker Ben Isaacs is among their long-term casualties.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – L. Thorne
JC star man: Mark Zealander (Redbridge)
DC Prediction: Redbridge JC B 2 Temple Fortune A 1
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SOUTHGATE HARMEN B vs MONTANA BOCA UNITED
Marc Cohen’s Harmen smashed 13 in the cup last Sunday but they shouldn’t expect any early Chanukah presents against a well-drilled Montana team.
Ben Rosenblatt and Doron Hershkorn fired hat-tricks in a one-sided affair against Boca Jewniors. There were also goals for Daniel Amram (2), llan Ben-Zion, Richard Starr, Nick Kershberg and Daniel Sinai.
Sunday will be a good test as Harmen try to cancel out a week one defeat at Montana.
Viv Emanuel’s troops also progressed in the Morrison last Sunday, with Darren Cohen (2) and Dan Jacobs on target in a 2-1 win.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Emanuel told JC Sport: “We have a good squad available for the return of Southgate Harmen.
“Last time around Harmen accused us of playing a "smash and grab" game. I hope we can put in a similar performance this week and run out winners!”
It’s clear that Harmen are improving and I think they will come away with something to show for their efforts.
Venue – Ashmole School, Ref – L. Benson
JC star man: Richard Starr (Montana)
DC Prediction: Southgate Harmen B 2 Montana Boca United 2
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DIVISION TWO
FAITHFOLD B vs CAMDEN PARK
Table-toppers Camden will be looking to make it five out of five in the league when they take on Faithfold B in the Hive derby.
Player-manager Josh Marks popped up with the winner in last week’s Morrison clash at Neasden and he will be hoping for a more open affair on Sunday.
One of the surprise packages of the season, Sunday promises to provide a real test of Camden’s title credentials.
Looking ahead to the game, Camden’s Nick Kagan told JC Sport: “We had to grind out a win in the cup last week against a very defensive Neasden C.
“It’s a big game this week against Faithold B who have made a very good start. The lads have been working on their fitness and are even considering a quiet night in with the X-Factor to make sure we're fully prepared to give us every chance of performing to the best of our abilities on Sunday.
“Oh and it’s a miracle. We have no injuries!”
Faithfold came a cropper in the cup last weekend, humbled in a seven-goal thriller against Division Four new boys FC Team C.
There’s every chance that complacency set in as there were very few names that manager Rob Shooman recognised on the teamsheet.
I don’t expect that to be a problem on Sunday as everyone loves to test themselves against the team at the top.
I can see this leading to an opening and entertaining affair, with Camden coming out on top again, but only just.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – M. Fox
JC star man: Leo Feldman (Camden)
DC Prediction: Faithfold B 2 Camden Park 3
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GLENTHORNE UNITED A vs NORSTAR B
Both Glenthorne and Norstar were on the wrong end of 4-1 scorelines in the cup last week so I’m sure that the lure of the bread and butter of the league will have everyone playing out of their skins on Sunday.
The Thornes were humbled by Lions B and manager Dan Lipman hopes that his boys can put on a special performance in front of their own fans.
After an excellent season last year, it’s clear the Thornes must step things up if they are to stay within touching distance of the top teams.
Norstar’s defeat in the inter-club derby would have been even more emphatic had it not been for the heroics of keeper Ian Weinstein. Not many stoppers make my team of the week after conceding four times but Weinstein’s efforts just could not be ignored. Raffi Addlestone also came in for special praise.
It would be fair to say that the season has not start as manager Jonny Bunt and co would’ve liked. But Bunt loves a challenge and he will have his troops ready for what could turn into a real battle.
An away win would put Bunt in contention for the Manager of the Week away but I can’t see the Thornes losing two on the spin.
Venue – London Marathon Playing Fields, Ref – B. Pieters
JC star man: David Blitz (Glenthorne)
DC Prediction: Glenthorne Utd A 2 Norstar B 1
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HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB B vs L’EQUIPE
Improving L’Equipe were back on the map last weekend when they put in a super-human performance against Redbridge C in the cup.
Strikes from man-of-the-match Richard Mail and Michael Silverberg helped them claim a famous win. Now they are keen to pull one of the big boys out of the hat.
The efforts of manager David Prager have not gone unnoticed in recent weeks. He is performing a miraculous job after the departure of some big names over the summer.
Victory would not have been possible without the heroics of Harry Tyndall in goal. One of his stops was out of the top-drawer, as he put life and limb on the line, displaying just the type of character and bravery that the team needs right now.
The final outcome did not come as a surprise to Prager. Speaking minutes after the final whistle, he told JC Sport: “We’ve been playing well over the last few weeks but have had nothing to show for our efforts, so Sunday’s result really wasn’t a surprise for any of us connected with the club.
“Our defence was fantastic with us only conceding a very questionable penalty. We need to build on this win next week and start climbing the table.”
Hendon have been on an upward curve since the start of the season. Four straight wins in the league were followed by a 4-2 victory over Faithfold C last Sunday, with goals coming from Lolu Hibbert, Simmy Hibbert, Chaim Gothold and Pinty Baddiel.
Hibbert was in top form last week, described by joint-manager Motti Korman as “head and shoulders the best player on the pitch”.
But Hendon fans should wait with baited breath before reading on … “We hope that our new signing Lolu Hibbert will be available this week before returning to Israel,” Korman told JC Sport. “He produced a man of the match performance last week and we are trying all we can to persuade him to move back to London and play out the rest of the season but I don’t think the club can afford his wage demands.
“L'Equipe had a good result last week in the cup and we are expecting a difficult game against them but hope to keep up with Camden at the top of the table.”
Momentum and confidence are important factors in football. It’s something both teams have in abundance and I can see it resulting in an absolute cracker.
JC team news: Hendon welcome back Parys Hammonds from suspension but will be missing a few regulars that are in Israel for Succot.
Venue – West Hendon Playing Fields, Ref – D. Nathan
JC star man: Lolu Hibbert (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Hendon Utd SC B 3 L’Equipe 2
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LONDON MACCABI LIONS B vs FC TEAM B
The Lions were back to their best last week when they thumped Division Two rivals Glenthorne A in the cup.
New signing Jonny Cutter looked the part with an inspirational display capped by a wonder goal.
The former Neasden marksmen hit the ground running in a performance capped by further strikes from Danny Alexander and the ever-dangerous Joey Lazare.
After falling a goal behind, Alexander and Adam Kosky bossed the midfield exchanges to leave manager Jamie Kyte foaming at the mouth with sheer excitement.
He told JC Sport said “This is the performance we’ve been missing for the last two games, when each player gives their all and everyone works for each other.
“I was particularly impressed with our two new lads. Khalili’s hold up play was perfect and once Cutter got into the swing of things he was unstoppable.”
FC Team B were edged out of the cup by first division Woodford. The efforts of Freddie Marks proved in vain as he scored yet another goal in a 3-2 defeat.
The sides go into the game locked on six points, with FC Team placed higher on goal difference.
I can see that changing come 12.15pm on Sunday.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – Q. Fox
JC star man: Adam Kosky (Lions)
DC Prediction: LM Lions B 3 FC Team B 1
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REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE C vs FAITHFOLD C
Daniel Gordon will be looking for a big reaction from his Redbridge boys after they were sent tumbling out of the Morrison against L’Equipe last Sunday.
The team has been on something of a run in the league but they must not take Faithfold lightly.
Gordon told JC Sport: “After an unexpected defeat last week, it is back to league action when we take on Faithfold C.
“Last week was disappointing to say the least. The boys on show did not look interested, and if they thought we had the game won beforehand then they were very much mistaken.
“I rested a number of players last week but all these players are now back in to the squad for this Sunday as we look to make it four league wins on the spin.
“We know a lot about Faithfold as they gave us two hard games last season. I think they have a very strong team and they should certainly be higher in the league this time around.
“Another Jewish holiday this week has stopped us training again, which could be a blessing in disguise for the players after the hairdryer treatment they received last week. We now know that we an not take our foot of the gas at anytime as were not good enough.”
JC team news: Faithfold welcome back Matty Kleinman, Joe Levy and Ricky Stoltzman who all missed last week’s cup game.
David Garson’s Faithfold gave a good account of themselves in the 4-2 defeat against Hendon B last Sunday.
Free-scoring striker Ben Simons hit the target again, as did Adam Newman.
The team has yet to win a game this season and it’s clear that they must rally round in a bid to change their fortunes.
Gordon knows that Fairlop must become a fortress this season. RJC are clearly good enough to go up again this season but on Sunday they must ensure that Simons does not get the service to ruin his best-laid plans.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – K. Gold
JC star man: Doron Weinstein (Redbridge)
DC Prediction: Redbridge JC C 4 Faithfold C 2
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DIVISION THREE
NORTH WEST NEASDEN C vs GLENTHORNE UNITED B
Two teams boasting 100 per cent league records go head-to-head in what could be one of the games of the day.
Leaders Glenthorne were sent tumbling out of the cup last weekend, going down 4-1 to neighbours Chigwell. Player-manager Craig Sandford put them ahead but they were put in their place in the second half.
I’m expecting a big reaction from the Thornes who have conceded just twice in four league games. Having put promotion rivals Los Blancos to the sword recently, it’s clear Sandford will have his men focused on the job ahead.
“I have highlighted four teams that will be challenging for the title and Neasden are one of them,” Sandford told JC Sport.
“We have beaten two other challengers and we need to carry our recent performances through to Sunday. Every week is a big game when you're trying to win the league and Division Three has been a real surprise with the amount of quality it has. No game is easy and in Neasden, we will be against a strong team.”
“Although we lost in the end against Chigwell, we were excellent for 45 minutes and deserved our lead. If we play to the same level then this team can really go places.”
Neasden also bowed out of the cup last weekend, edged out 1-0 by Division Two leaders Camden Park.
Player-manager Louis Taylor is relishing the prospect of welcoming the Division Three table-toppers.
He told JC Sport: “We have almost a full squad to choose from this weekend. There is lots of competition for places and we are confident of putting in a great performance.
“We know it will be tough, but we're ready. Ed Bloom and Adam Levene are available and I have a dilemma with four strikers vying for a starting place.”
I expect this to be a high-octane affair and fans are encouraged to arrive early for what should be a ding-dong affair.
JC team news: For Neasden, Tony Chadwick and Jamie Isenwater come in at the back.
Glenthorne welcome back Dan Lassman and James Rubin, who both missed out last week, but Adam Shafron is out injured
Venue – Copthall, Ref – M. Cudner
JC star man: Craig Sandford (Glenthorne)
DC Prediction: NW Neasden C 1 Glenthorne Utd B 2
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BLIZZARD STORM vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB C
Clearly broiges about not getting manager of the week, Simon Linden has been looking to beef up his squad following the memorable win over Neasden B.
Shai Revivo and Michael Gaventa will go down as the men that shot down the almighty Division One team in a thrilling 3-1 victory, but Linden was over the moon with all-round the effort levels shown by his troops.
Stuart Muller earned a place in my Team of the Week after running the show from start to finish. Full-back Brett Freeman and striker Joe Stolerman also caught the eye.
Now Linden and co are going in search of their first league win of the season. They start the match second from bottom but look set to have a top-notch squad available.
Linden told JC Sport: “We are trying to get Oli Simons snapped up in a quick deal before the window shuts. He could go straight into the squad as a striker.
“We have to build on last week’s success. This is a huge game for us and we have to get a result. I'm confident we get three points.”
The Hustlers were crushed 5-0 by Los Blancos last Sunday. They have now failed to register in three matches this season and the warning signs are there for all to see.
Manager Avi Gelley knows that striker Benny Goldberg had his head turned by a big offer over the summer. Several big name clubs are still after his signature and only the lure of free-flowing fantasy football will persuade him to stay.
With the feel-good-factor back in the Blizzard camp, I’m banking on a home win.
JC team news: Blizzard hope to welcome back key men Sean Ladier and Adam Speck. I've received reports that Ladier mysteriously injured his thumb shaking a lulav earlier this week but he is expected to pass a late fitness test.
Venue – Mill Hill Park, Ref – A. Yuchetel
JC star man: Sean Ladier (Blizzard)
DC Prediction: Blizzard Storm 4 Hendon Utd SC C 2
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LOS BLANCOS vs UJIA
Joint-leaders Los Blancos will be looking to finish the weekend clear at the top when they host UJIA in South Oxhey.
With nearest rivals Glenthorne B facing a tough encounter against Neasden C, Joel Minsky troops go in search of their fifth league win of the season.
There were high fives all round when they thumped Hendon C for the second time this season. Benjy Englesman (2), Daniel Sher, Ariel Weinstein and Dovid Greenberg were the goal men in the team’s most emphatic victory of the season.
“If we carry forward the momentum from last Sunday’s game hopefully we’ll have another three points in the bag come Sunday afternoon,” a happy Minsky told JC reporters.
“I know very little about UJIA, but I view them as the strongest of the teams still in the division from last year, and accordingly we know we'll have to work hard for the win.
“We have a handful of players out, but we have strength in depth this year, so I don’t envisage that to be a problem.
UJIA’s big two – Ben Nassim and Assi Avital – fired them to a hard fought 3-2 win over JLGB. The pair were at the heart of everything good for Darren Rolfe’s boys.
But it will be a big ask for them to replicate their efforts on Sunday against a team that traditionally gives little away at the back.
The experience of Gavin Sherman and Jeremy Leigh at the back will be key, especially with some of Los Blancos’ big-hitters missing.
I can see fans being treated to a high-scoring spectacle and it will be all white on the night.
Venue – South Oxhey, Ref – P. Dobkin
JC star man: Daniel Sher (Los Blancos)
DC Prediction: Los Blancos 4 UJIA 2
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TEAM JLGB vs SHIRLEY PARK
Team JLGB will attempt to double-park the team bus in front of their goal but not even that will help them stop a Shirley Park team that will stop at nothing less than the title.
Dave Lusman has put together a team that would not look out of place in the Premier Division. Last week they destroyed Division One high-flyers Redbridge B and another big victory is on the cards.
The outstanding Nicky Plotnek led the way with a double, with the other goals coming through Gideon Gold and Stefan Benfredj in a 4-0 success.
As good as they have been so far, it’s clear Lusman is trying to keep his troops focused and their feet on the ground.
Looking ahead to Sunday, he told JC Sport: “We’re in for a tough test this week against JLGB. We’re fully prepared for a backlash after are previous meeting with them and Im sure there be looking for revenge.
“JLGB will by no means be underestimated coming into this fixture. They’ve been extremely unlucky with their last few results and in the league its only a matter of time for them until the tide turns in their favour.”
Rob Silverman’s men came out second best in a five-goal thriller against UJIA last Sunday. Keeper Rob Levene, Mike Marks, Barry Green and Silverman gave a good account of themselves, but they will need a real team effort on Sunday.
Silverman needs no reminding how it finished the last time the teams met.
Speaking at his midweek press conference, he told JC Sport: “JLGB go into this fixture off the back of a battling and strong performance against UJIA.
“Confidence is higher in the club, however Sunday's match against Shirley Park is certainly going to be a toughy.
“18-0 last time out, JLGB will be looking to restore some pride.”
If Shirley Park scores early, I can see the floodgates opening once more but you can gets odds of 10,000 on it finishing 18-0 second time around.
JC team news: JLGB's squad is depleted through injury and absence. Key players Paul Black and Barry Green are not available. Silverman hopes that Adam Conway and Byron Watkins will make their debuts.
Venue – Peter May Sports Centre, Ref – W. Blake
JC star man: Stefan Benfredj (Shirley)
DC Prediction: Team JLGB 1 Shirley Park 5
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DIVISION FOUR
ATHLETIC BILBAUM vs FC TEAM C
Michael Myers hopes that the JC Manager of the Week curse doesn’t strike when he takes his troops to the Bernebaum on Sunday.
He led his boys to a memorable 4-3 victory over Division Two high-flyers Faithfold B in the Jewish FA Cup. Now they are looking to pull a big name out of the hat in a bid to swell the club’s coffers even further.
If Myers could’ve had his way, every one of his players would’ve made my Team of the Week. But instead, it was defender Eitan Ben-Zion who got the nod after bagging a brace including the winner.
David Cohen added the other two with dynamic duo Rob Sanford and Dan Rothman also receiving rave reviews.
The good news did not stop there, however, as they were also awarded three points after it was revealed that Temple Fortune B had fielded an ineligible player in their match on the first week of the season.
That means that FC Team have now won four out of five and confidence, going into Sunday’s match, could not be higher.
“FC Team C are still buzzing from the cup win last weekend,” Myers told JC Sport. “We welcome back Max Worth, who is home from uni but may say good bye to Rob Sanford, who might be staying up at uni this weekend.
“The players are in great form and with a fit David Cohen, who has scored in every game he has played in, we look great in attack. Dave and our other striker, Jamie Cooper, are establishing a strong relationship, with both players being extremely quick and clinical they are a force to be reckoned with.
“In midfield, we have the likes of Matt Sheldon and Max Worth - who bring plenty of flair to the team - and not to forget the unsung hero of the team, Dan Rothman. He may not get on the scoresheet but he is essential in breaking up the play and starting the attacks.
“At the back we will be solid as ever with Eitan Ben-Zion trying to add to his two goals from last week and our captain Jamie Breslaw, in fine form.”
Bilbaum have come on in leaps and bounds this season. Manager Mark Pasha was delighted with the performance against Division One title hopefuls Oakwood in the Morrison last weekend.
Although they lost 2-0, they were not intimidated by their illustrious opponents with Benjy Aarons-Richardson and Adam Landes having monster games in centre defence.
Looking back on the game, Pasha told JC Sport: “It was only a couple of momentary lapses in concentration that led to Oakwood's goals, but the Bilbaum boys continued to believe that there was something in the game for them all the way until the death.”
This will be the first ever meeting between the teams and I can see fans being treated to a real spectacle.
Venue – J. Feenstra
JC star man: Adam Landes (Bilbaum)
DC Prediction: Athletic Bilbaum 2 FC Team C 2
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JEWVENTUS vs BOCA JEWNIORS
October is far too early for wooden spoon six points so Sunday’s gives both Jewve and Boca the chance to make a statement of intent – The only way is up!
Both teams have lost five out of five and it’s clear that something must change. Otherwise, they might just get the rotten fruit treatment from their fans.
With Halloween just around the corner, Jewve boss Gabriel John hopes that his men supply more treats than tricks.
Last Sunday, they were on the wrong end of a seven-goal thriller with Richard Cohen, Guy Orr and Jay Ilsen on target for the Old Lady.
The season went from bad to worse for the Boca boys last weekend. They were hit for an unlucky 13 by Southgate Harmen B in the cup in a game where Jamie Weinrich had given them the lead.
The match also featured a goal from Chandler Monk, who at just 16 had manager Sefton Monk looking at the record books to see if he was the youngest ever scorer in men’s football.
The teams are also scheduled to meet again in the league next week so Sunday is the chance for one set of players to put down a psychological marker.
One thing looks certain. This one won’t finish goalless.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – N. Cohen
JC star man: Chandler Monk (Boca)
DC Prediction: Jewventus 4 Boca Jewniors 3
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NORTH LONDON RAIDERS C vs ATHLETICO FINCHLEY
Can anyone stop Raiders C. That is the question that managers up and down the land are asking right now.
L’Orange look unstoppable right now with manager Oli Shorts one of the most envied men in Jewish football.
Last week they put Temple Fortune to the sword with goals from Ben Hart (2) and Joe Newton. They are odds-on making it six out of six when they welcome lowly Athletico to Hatfield but the gaffer is taking nothing for granted.
“I'm always a little wary playing against teams we've never played before, and especially against a team that has a point to prove,” Shorts told JC Sport.
“When you're top of the table, everyone will want to beat you. It’s a luxury being top but the challenge is to stay there. We must be focused and do a professional job and if we play the way we've done over the last few weeks I’m confident of a win.”
Dovid Kurzer, the Athletico boss, came away with plenty of positives after last week’s 3-1 cup defeat against established first division side Montana.
Kurzer look on with great pride as his men held their own for more than an hour. In the end, a goal from Amit Dinowitz was all they had to show for their efforts.
Raiders have conceded just once in 270 minutes in front of their home fans and I can’t see Finchley living with them.
So, mark this one down as home banker.
JC team news: Raiders are “missing a few players as Marc Fineman and James Franks are away”. But they hope to welcome back Matt Greene from injury.
Venue – Hatfield Uni, Ref – S. Ansher
JC star man: Matt Greene (Raiders)
DC Prediction: NL Raiders C 3 Athletico Finchley 1
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TEMPLE FORTUNE B vs BRIXTON OLD BOYS B
It’s been a bad few days for Temple Fortune B. First they go down 3-1 against Raiders C, then they are docked three points for fielding an ineligible player on the opening weekend of the season.
The team struggled to get to get with the 3G surface and will be relieved to get back to good, old grass-roots football.
Pretty much the only positive was the fact that player-manager Terry Jeffries moved to top of the JC MSFL Goal Charts after grabbing a consolation.
Brixton been working hard to turn things around since that fateful 11-2 battering against Fortune, but player-boss Daniel Selt knows that his boys must beware of a Fortune backlash on Sunday.
Stefan Owide (2), Matt Tahan and Selt were on the mark in the 4-3 win at Jewventus last week, but the manager knows that his team must tighten up at the back.
Selt told JC Sport: “We want to get a result on Sunday and for us it is a great chance to see where we are in comparison to last time we played Fortune a few weeks ago.
“We need to keep composed and certainly not give away any silly goals like we did last week.”
Venue – Gosling Park Sports Centre, Ref – R. Caplin
JC star man: Stefan Owide (Brixton)
DC Prediction: Temple Fortune B 2 Brixton OB B 2
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