This season just seems to be whizzing by and we are now at the ‘business end of the season' with the promoted teams emerging.
I have now seen all bar one of our Premier Division teams and can confirm that we really have a high standard at the top end of the league. All the games I have seen have been great, especially the semi-final of the JCCyril Anekstein Cup that broke the hearts of North London Raiders A. But two wonder strikes from Greg Corin of Hendon United Sports A was real value for money. Greg is such a talented and skilful footballer.
It is a great shame that we lost Montana Boca United from Division One. They have been great stalwarts for the league over many years but, like everything else in life, nothing is forever and I would like to place on record my thanks for their great contribution. Leaders Oakwood appear to be heading for the Premier Davison and I am sure we all wish them every luck in their Peter Morrison Trophy semi-final with South Manchester.
Congratulations to Camden Park on their promotion from Division Two. Another excellent unit who should make it all the way to the Premier Division. Hendon United Sports B are the dark horses in this division and are the other team most likely to be promoted.
Division Three has been led all the way by Glenthorne United B and I look forward to paying them a visit in two weeks time. Shirley Park looks the most likely team to join them for promotion.
Division Four has really been a great contest. New teams are always unknown quantities but Brady Maccabi B, SPEC FC and Athletic Bilbaum will be there or thereabouts at the final curtain. I really enjoyed my visits to matches in this division.
We also have a very exciting end of season programme. On Monday May 7 a one-day London Inter-League Cup competition is due to be staged and we have entered a team. We are awaiting details of the tournament and will appoint our own Management team shortly.
Also, Maccabi GB are sending a team to Marseilles for the European Maccabi Football Trophy. It is expected that most of the players will come from the JCM(S)FL. If anyone is interested they should let me know and I will give them contact details.
Things are looking real good down at the Boleyn and I hope we don’t blow it ... but you can never tell with West Ham. Top (or thereabouts) of the league maybe, but sadly the performances are not of the best. Many of the games have been dire and most boring. Far too defensive and not enough flair which in truth is the ‘West Ham Way’ To play THREE games with 10 men for most of them is not something I would recommend ... no good for the blood pressure ... but at least we have come out mainly on the right side of the result. We will need a massive overhaul if we get promotion. Anyhow, moaning over, I am pleased that the Hammers are at the right end of the league. Long may it last!
Wishing you all well over the remainder of the season.
David Wolff
Chairman
JCMaccabi (Southern) Football League
