There is a full programme of league action in store on Matchday 12 of the JC MSFL season, with top matches including Brady A against Neasden A, Hendon A taking on FC Team A and Brady B going head to head with SPEC FC. Danny Caro gives his expert analysis and insight into all the matches.
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MATCHDAY 11 ANALYSIS
REFEREE OF THE WEEK
Stephen Levy (UJIA vs Glenthorne Utd B)
HERO OF THE WEEK
John Nitka (Brixton Old Boys A) - see Friday's JC for full details
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PHOTOS & VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
JC PHOTOGALLERY: UJIA vs GLENTHORNE UTD A
JC VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: UJIA vs GLENTHORNE UTD A
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SUNDAY FA CUP
TREKKERS vs BRIXTON OLD BOYS A
John Nitka's Brixton travel to Ilford on Sunday to take on Trekkers in the Sunday FA Cup.
Having taken the scalp of Mass FC a couple of weeks ago, Nitka and co will be looking to build on the brilliant win over Chigwell Athletic last Sunday.
A wonder show from George Fierstone helped them along the way with two goals from Michael Posner the icing on the cake.
It will be a case of going into the unknown for the Brixton boys. Nitka told JC Sport: "We're hopeful of a win, however I do not know much about Tekkers or their form.
"Let us wait and see. It will be an excellent preparation for our game on Sunday week again Neasden A in the first of our two consecutive games - one the Peter Morrison and one in the Cyril Anekstein. I cannot wait."
Tekkers have reached round three with a 5-1 win at Arbour Athletic followed by a 3-2 success at home to North Action.
One thing looks sure. The Brixton boys will need to display unbelievable tekkers to put paid to Trekkers' cup hopes!
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JC MSFL PREMIER DIVISION
BRADY MACCABI A vs NW NEASDEN A
If you’re looking for a high-octane affair, then get down to Rowley Lane on Sunday where title-chasing Neasden take on Brady.
Josh Rosenfeld’s men go into the game on the back of a narrow defeat against the Lions in a game where James Steele was sent off for a professional foul.
They have had some classic battles against Neasden over the years and I do not expect the teams to disappoint here.
Scoring goals has been the biggest problem for Brady in their first season back in the Premier, and Rosenfeld will be asking his troops to up the ante.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Rosenfeld told JC Sport: "We're finding it tough at the moment and games don’t come much bigger than Neasden.
"We really need to be fighting on all fronts on Sunday if we are going to come away with anything.
"We know Neasden well. I can be certain they are looking forward to this one just as much as we are. I have a lot of history with Neasden - having won the double there - and have a lot of repsect for Cashy and Darren.
"They have become a strong force again and, in my opinion, are still the team to beat this year. We are looking forward to the game.
"They are a quality outfit with class all over the pitch and we are relishing the game. We know if we are not all up to our best we will lose the game."
Neasden are slowly building up a head of steam and they showed good character against Raiders last week in a game where they fell behind twice only to snatch a late winner.
The performance of Sammy Ross impressed joint-manager Darren Yarlett while Adam Klein and Paul Babai put in their usual solid displays.
Co-manager Lee Cash is predicting another tough battle. “We are now unbeaten in our last three games and feel that on Sunday we will make it four out of four,” he told JC Sport.
“Josh has done a fantastic job at Brady and they have already showed enough quality to retain their place in the premiership.
“We are expecting a tough game as we do every week but feel 3 points is vital to continue our push up the table.”
Sunday will mark an emotional return for defender Jonny Ellis who served Neasden so well for several years but will now be out to take them down a notch.
I think this game will be won and lost by how the teams defend set-pieces. My money is on a narrow Neasden win.
JC team news: Neasden are missing, Rob Lerner, Matt Sofier, Scott Shindler and Danny Daggers. Jake Gottlieb, Ben Goldberg and Max Shields return after missing the Raiders game. David Fox is expected to return to his slot at right-back after filling in admirably between the sticks. He’s definitely the best No. 2 in the league, with Cash and myself believing that he’s also not far off still being the No. 1! Elliot Stern faces a late fitness test.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – M. Lavender
JC star man: Jake Gottlieb (Neasden)
DC Prediction: Brady Maccabi A 1 NW Neasden A 2
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HENDON UTD SC A vs FC TEAM A
Table-topping Hendon will be looking to register their seventh league win of the season when they welcome FC Team A to Hadley FC.
David Garbacz’s men kept alive their quadruple hopes last Sunday when they came from 2-0 down to win in the LFA Sunday Intermediate Cup.
Another master-class from two-goal hero and JC Player of the Week Greg Corin inspired the comeback when Avidan Last popped up with another crucial goal.
Corin and Josh Bentley were on target when the sides met on the opening weekend of the season and it’s clear that Garbacz is looking for more of the same.
“As the old proverbial cliché goes we are taking each game as it comes,” he told JC Sport. “Sunday’s match is extremely important in that we have thre cup games after this week and it is essential to get the three points this week in the league and maintain a bit of a cushion at the top.
“Saying that we remember FC Team from match day one and they were very difficult to break down . They have since picked up some decent results and are more than holding their own in this division so we will definitely not be taking them lightly.
“We are on a good run though and our comeback last week proved that we have got that refuse to lose mentality back. As good a team as our opponents are, if we show anything like the kind of form we have showed in recent weeks then I would fully expect us to pick up the points but not after what I expect to be a tough, tight game.”
FC Team’s walking wounded gave a great account of themselves against Raiders B last week. Richard Salmon put them ahead but they were unable to keep L’Orange out with two strikes from David Dinkin defeating them.
Manager Mitch Young was delighted with the performances of Ed Alexson, Adam Rones and Josh Sugarbread in particular.
Young expects another tough 90 minutes on Sunday. "Hendon have been the most consistent side so far this season,” he told JC Sport. “We were very unlucky in our first game of the season but now Hendon have clicked into gear and I’m expecting a very hard game.
“This is our last league game of the year so although we have an injury crisis, we will be giving it our all to get something from the game."
Hendon have kept four clean sheets in the league this year and their defence should deal with the threat of Salmon. With this in mind, midfield will be a key area and I can see the visitors going in with a 4-5-1 formation in a bid to stifle Hendon’s big-hitters. That could work for 60 minutes or so but I can see Hendon eventually breaking them down.
JC team news: For Hendon,: Josh Lipman is away and Dovid Korman is injured. Paul Bentley is back from New York. Manager David Garbacz has an otherwise full-fit squad.
FC Team are without the injured Gideon Moss, Ollie Segal, Jake Weiner, Danny Moss, Jules Noti and Matt Drage.
Venue – Hadley FC, Ref – W. Blake
JC star man: Avidan Last (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Hendon Utd SC A 3 FC Team A 1
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LONDON MACCABI LIONS A vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS B
North London Raiders B have really taken the top-flight by storming and they will need no motivation going into Sunday’s trip to Rowley Lane.
Rob Richman’s men are bang in form and they go into the game on the back of a hard fought victory over FC Team A when a David Dinkin double helped them come from behind and staying within touching distance of leaders Hendon. No doubt the boy Dinkin will be keen to impress against his former club.
L’Orange came through the game unscathed injury-wise and Richman is hoping to start with the same XI against a side they thumped 4-1 by a fortress Brunel in September.
Alex Bowman (2),Yoav Lebens and Pete Lazard were the goal men that day.
With another intense training session planned this week, Richman told JC Sport: “We are looking to give Lions a much tougher test than our earlier encounter this season.
“On that day we really weren’t at the races, particularly so in the first half, and we were punished as a result.
“Since that game we have managed to find some form, winning our last four games and we aim to go to Rowley Lane and put in a much better performance.”
The Lions registered their fourth win of the season last week, edging past Brady courtesy of a strike from Yoav Lebens. Aviel Schwarz blotted his copybook with a rare red card after hauling down Josh Hershman as the last man but I have no doubt he’ll be looking to make the headlines for the right reasons this week!
With Schwarz, Lebens, Bowman, Lazard and Dominic Cheniart on the scene, the Lions are on course for a top half of the table finish and they will go all out to do the double over a talented Raiders B.
But for me, the key contest on Sunday will be between Lions’ Jacob Lew and Raiders pace ace Mike Hershman, who could be a late contender for the sprint events at the 2012 Olympics.
This has all the ingredients of a classic and it will be a sign of how far Raiders have come in a very short space of time.
JC team news: Raiders have no injuries to report, with Jonny Hesselberg still the only player out.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – S. Levy
JC star man:
DC Prediction: LM Lions A 1 NL Raiders B 1
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NORTH LONDON RAIDERS A vs FAITHFOLD A
Relegation-haunted Raiders will be looking to avoid their third straight defeat when they take on title-chasing Faithfold in Uxbridge.
L’Orange put in a vastly improved display against Neasden last Sunday but eventually came unstuck after another late defensive error.
The performances of recent signing Mayer Schultz and Jonny Shapiro were two of several positives on the day, with Shapiro putting in a contender for Raiders goal of the season with a real howitzer.
Joint-manager Jonathan Adelman said: “Our performance against Neasden was excellent. We missed some chances in the first half and conceded a couple of poor goals again but overall its a performance we can and should take plenty of positives from.”
Faithfold won the first meeting between the sides this season when Mike Pearson tore the Raiders defence to shreds. His head-to-head with Raiders Jamie Wolfson will feature two of the top-scorers in the division, although Wolfson is due a goal.
We go into the game with a massive injury list but won’t use this as an excuse. We had the same squad against Lions in the cup and won 3 -0 so we will be up for it.
With four wins in five in the league, it’s no surprise that Faithfold start as favourites.
7-1 winners when the teams last met, Faithfold boss Zuriel Solomon is expecting a much tighter affair. “Playing at Brunel is always difficult it’s not the best pitch in the league but that’s football,” he told JC Sport.
“Raiders haven’t had the start they wished for but we will not under-estimate them. Every game is tough and you have to turn up with the right attitude.”
As Solomons says, Sunday will be about the team that turns up with the right attitude with players from both teams looking to tick all the boxes.
JC team news: Raiders hope to welcome back captain David Rhodes who missed last week’s match against Neasden with a virus. Nick Wiseman also returns to the squad.
Venue – Brunel Uni, Ref – A. Myerson
JC star man: Mike Pearson (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: NL Raiders A 2 Faithfold A 3
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REDBRIDGE JC A vs SOUTHGATE HARMEN A
Defending champions Redbridge will be looking to complete an early season double over Harmen in Gants Hill on Sunday morning.
Summer signings Lee Bibring (2) and Fabio Revieccio joined Steve Summers on the scoresheet in a 4-2 victory. It will be interesting to see what RJC have in store in terms for a replacement for Revieccio who recently returned to Glenthorne United B.
The season has been very stop-start for Redbridge and Eilon Kennet’s men will be looking to string a run of results together, starting with Harmen at the weekend.
Looking ahead to the match, RJC coach Danny Berg told JC Sport: "We're looking forward to getting back on track and need to pick up a good three points."
Dan Uzan's Harmen start the weekend bottom of the pile but they know that three points here could help them leapfrog Raiders A – to date the only team they’ve beaten in the league.
Despite the best efforts of Zack White and Alex Bourne, they are still struggling to score on a regular basis and they will find the going tough against an in-form Summers.
I don’t think this will be a classic by any stretch of the imagine but expect the Redbridge boys to get back on track.
JC team news: RJC have got a full squad to choose from bar the injured Steve Summers.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – A. Lewis
JC star man: Mitch Lassman (RJC)
DC Prediction: Redbridge JC A 2 Southgate Harmen A 0
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DIVISION ONE
NORTH WEST NEASDEN B vs NORSTAR A
Phil Peters’ Norstar will be looking to make it seven out of seven when they take on improving Neasden B.
Last week they won a seven-goal thriller against Harmen B with the red-hot Adam Jason banging in another two goals. The boy is in the form of his life right now and it would be fair to say that everything he touches turns to goals.
The Norstar boys have built up a nice head of steam and they will be looking to go for the jugular from the very first whistle.
But Peters is taking nothing for granted as he knows that nothing is won before Chanukah.
He told JC Sport: “We’re looking forward to another challenging game which you always get when playing a Neasden side. Plus we're now the side to beat and that added incentive will give our opponents even more reason to try and get one over on us.
“We know they've got players capable of doing some serious damage, as they proved last week against Woodford, but there's a reason we've won six in a row and with so many players returning I'm confident we'll have too much for them."
Neasden registered their second win with recent signing Ricky Engleman pulling the strings in an excellent display against Woodford.
Jonny Blain also paid another chunk of his huge transfer fee off with a goal, with Matt Sofier, Mark Lazare and Adam Paris finishing the job.
If Engleman and Sofier line-up on Sunday, it could be closer than expected but winning has become a habit for the Stars and I expect them to do the business once more.
JC team news: For Norstar, Sammy Kalms and Josh Pistol remain the only long-term absentees, the latter with a knee injury that kept him out of last week's victory over Southgate Harmen. Adam Graham is off to New York. They will be welcoming back striker Josh Green, Adam Kaldor, Robin Scher and Daniel Gilbert, meaning manager Peters certainly has some tough decisions to make. Sam Isaacs made it through 60 minutes last Sunday and will be aiming to make it 90 this week.
Venue – G. Silver
JC star man: Sam Isaacs (Norstar)
DC Prediction: NW Neasden B 1 Norstar A 3
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REDBRIDGE JC B vs SOUTHGATE HARMEN B
Redbridge B remain well-placed to make a title push in the new year.
They looked back to their best last Sunday when Dan Orgel was the star man with a hat-trick in the 5-1 routing of Montana. Harrison Grant and new boy Adam Goldman completed the rout.
Manager Stirling Kay will be looking for his troops to make another fast start as they look to extend their unbeaten league run to six games.
Ever the perfectionists, Kay is demanding a 90-minute display from his men this week as after flying into a 4-0 lead, he felt they took their foot off the gas somewhat last week.
Orgel and Mark Zealander (2) were the goal men when RJC beat Harmen in a game where both managers were in full agreement that the best team had won.
Harmen have provided some great entertainment in recent week. Their fans have certainly got value for money with some high-scoring encounters, but I have no doubt that manager Marc Cohen would settle for an ugly 1-0 victory if offered before the game.
They put leaders Norstar all the way last week in a 4-3 thriller lit up by a wonder goal from Darren Gale. Paul Stein and Daniel Amram were also on target.
Cohen came away from the game saying: “It tremendous display from my boys today who are gutted at not getting more out of the game.
"We gave Norstar a big scare and on another day the points could have gone the other way.
I can see Harmen huffing and puffing on Sunday but ultimately, Redbridge will have too much quality and will blow them away.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – B. Pieters
JC star man: Adam Goldman (RJC)
DC Prediction: Redbridge JC B 4 Southgate Harmen B 1
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TEMPLE FORTUNE A vs CHIGWELL ATHLETIC
“We can't slip up again. Simple as that.” That is what Chigwell boss Richard Slater told JC Sport after his team went down to a 3-2 defeat against promotion rivals Brixton last weekend.
A third league defeat means they have it all to do if they are to realise Slater’s Premier Division dream. It’s clear they have the players, squad and resources to go up but it’s only results that matter now.
Jamie Fox and Paul Lenchner netted in the 3-2 defeat against Brixton but their frustrations ultimately got the better of them as Anthony Mendel and Slater were dismissed. They finished with eight men after top-scorer Glenn Michaels went off injured after they had used both substitutes.
Slater let rip with the hairdryer during training this week and it’s clear that he will settle for nothing less than three points on Sunday.
He told JC Sport: “On the back of our worst run this season, losing our last two, it makes this Sunday a must-win game. Anything less simply isn’t an option if we want to stay in the title race.”
Meeting Chigwell for the first time this season, Fortune could be a little leg-weary after their penalty shoot-out win over Camden Park in the Morrison last week.
Player-manager Lee Fegan was the unlikely hero. The fourth-choice keeper saved two penalties in a memorable morning. The lift of a shootout win may well lift them for the challenge of Chigwell but it will count for nothing unless they perform from 1-11.
Fortune know that only their best will do on Sunday. Jack Morris, Fortune's assistant-manager, told JC Sport: "We still have a few players with knocks, but we’re hoping to welcome back some of them for this weekend.
"We're also pleased to welcome back at least one of our keepers into the squad, although Lee may just have done enough last week to keep his place!
"Captain Paul Walker is once again missing as me and him are both on a stag do.
"We anticipate a really tough game against what seem to be one of the league’s strongest teams, but if we can show the type of fight and character we did last week then we have a chance."
The Chigs have had a mixed run of results on their travels this season but with most of their big guns back, you have to fancy them.
JC team news: For Chigwell, Russell Brill and Jon Swead are away. Dan Castle and Anthony Mendel miss out injured. Striker Glenn Michaels faces a late fitness test on a rib injury. Alex Norman, Lee Hyams, Rob Shepherdson, Dean Michaels and Glenn Davis return to the squad as does centre half Jonathan Raven, not to be confused with the former Newsround presenter John Craven, is down from Liverpool and goes straight into the squad.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – M. Cohen
JC star man: Jon Raven (Chigwell)
DC Prediction: Temple Fortune A 1 Chigwell Athletic 3
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WOODFORD WANDERERS vs OAKWOOD
It could be shinpads at the ready as the big-hitters of Woodford and Oakwood go head-to-head with Oakwood at Redbridge Sports Centre.
Basement battlers Woodford will do well to take points off the promotion-chasing Oaks with Alex Aviram’s men still awaiting that elusive first league win.
Having beaten promotion rivals Brixton last time out, Oakwood, co-managed by Ric Blank and Alex Schock will arrive in confident mood and if they score first I can only see the morning getting better for them.
Bradley Wine was the star man against Brixton and messus Blank and Schock will be urging the team to get the ball out wide at every opportunity. Daniel Abrams, Antony Kintish and James Abrams were also in fine form so more of the same if the message from travelling fans.
Woodford boss Alex Aviram hopes that it’s a case of seventh time lucky. They have endured a nightmare start to the season for one reason or another and attack could be the best form of defence here.
The next few weeks could be really critical for Woodford who will pull out all the stops to ensure that the teams above them do not pull away even further.
Ahead of the game, he had this to say: "Survival is now the goal for Woodford having endured our worst start to a season since they forming three years ago.
"Events on and off the field have led to Woodford not registering a point since our opening game against Redbridge. To add more woe, I have a string of injuries in the squad longer than my bar bill at Faces on a Saturday night."
The clever money is on Oakwood.
JC team news: For Woodford, keeper Ben Rosenthal is injured following a recurrence of a back injury which kept him out of football all of last season. Elliot Gold, Jerome Marks and Adam Poole are injury doubts for Sunday. They will have late fitness tests. Darryl Green is out for two weeks with a baggy toenail. Woodford regulars Darren Ezekiel, Harrison Midda, Jerome Marks and Martin Sales are all OK for Sunday.
Venue – Redbridge Sports Centre, Ref – D. Lazarus
JC star man: Anthony Kintish (Oakwood)
DC Prediction: Woodford Wanderers 1 Oakwood 3
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DIVISION TWO
CAMDEN PARK vs REDBRIDGE JC C
Sunday sees the Redbridge boys go back to The Hive to take on promotion rivals Camden Park.
Turn back the clock a few days and it was arguably Dan Gordon’s the best day in MSFL management as his team recorded an impressive 2-1 victory over high-flying rivals Faithfold B.
The result did not go unnoticed as I awarded Gordon the JC Manager of the Week accolade. He’s been avoiding walking under ladders all week in a bid to ensure the famous Caro curse doesn’t strike here!
The RJC boys go into the match two points in front of Camden, but they have played two games more.
Looking ahead to the big match, Gordon told JC Sport: “Camden are currently the only undefeated side left in the division and this is something we hope will change come lunchtime on Sunday.
“I have been very impressed with Camden this season as I know they have a much-changed side to what they have recently had and to stay unbeaten so far. I give full credit to the management team.
“My boys are going into this clash in full confidence after winning six games on the spin and we genuinely have the belief that we can beat anyone in the division if we play like we did last Sunday.
“The result against Faithfold was our best performance of the season and I am absolutely delighted with how the team are playing.
“The back four of Rob Gevertz, Ronnie Firman, Josh Barnett and Steve Clements have been fantastic and are protecting goal keeper Paul Sanders excellently.
“We have one or two players missing this week but I know what ever side I put out they will try the absolute best and the boys that do come in will do the club proud.”
Camden have been reflecting on an opportunity missed against first division Temple Fortune A in the Morrison last Sunday. They had plenty of chances to pull off a shock but left their shooting boots at home.
However, manager Josh Marks would have come away from the match with plenty of positives.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Camden's Nick Kagan told JC Sport: "After a couple of disappointing results in the cup competitions, and a game we somehow only managed to draw against FC Team B means, we've got a point to prove this weekend.
"Redbridge are in a good run of form and we've got a couple of injuries.
"Hopefully it will be a good flowing match with lots of goals, if everyone turns up sober and performs then hopefully we can edge it!"
As well as Camden have started this season, they have not been as free-flowing in recent weeks and as Redbridge have the bit between their teeth, I can see them coming up trumps here.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – K. Goodman
JC star man: Rob Gevertz (RJC)
DC Prediction: Camden Park 1 Redbridge JC C 2
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FAITHFOLD B vs L’EQUIPE
The JC Manager of the Week curse hit the Faithfold camp last Sunday and manager Rob Shooman will be looking for a big reaction from his players here.
They slipped down two places in the table after going down 2-1 against promotion rivals Redbridge B, but the message is clear. L’Equipe beware, as I’m predicting a Faithfold backlash.
Assistant-manager Ben Lewis rolled back the years with a predatory strike but it was not enough to stop the Superhoops from going down to only their second defeat of the season.
Defeats at home to Camden and Redbridge means that they can ill-afford any slip-ups on Sunday. Dan Hildebrand smashed four goals in the first meeting with L’Equipe but he has since moved to pastures new so Shooman will be looking to Dan Stock - a two-goal hero from the October 18 clash - to work his magic again.
L’Equipe are one of five MSFL teams not to have won a game this season. Seven straight defeats means that it could be a long, dark winter for them. They were well beaten by FC Team B last Sunday and I can’t see things getting any better here.
Mark this one down as a home banker.
Venue – The Hive, Ref – H. Raffe
JC star man: Dan Stock (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: Faithfold B 4 L’Equipe 0
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FC TEAM B vs HENDON UTD SC B
Hello. Hello. Good to be back. It’s good to be back. That was the song that greeted the Hendon players at full-time last week as they returned to the top of the table with an impressive 4-2 win over Lions B.
It was a good performance all-round as the team bounced back from their first league defeat of the season at the hands of Faithfold the previous week.
Stand-in keeper Gav Noe was superb by all accountants, with joint-manager Chaim Gothold believing that he has finally “found his true position, having decided a while back he wasn't a striker!”
Strikers Motty Korman and Rafi Noe ran themselves into the ground with Gothold (2), Pinty Baddiel and Alon Blitz hitting the onion bag.
Midfield maestros Tali Nevies and James Joseph impressed once more with Nevies upping the ante in the Division Two Player of the Season stakes. He has been a real powerhouse up to now.
Korman told JC Sport that the Hornets “may be low on numbers” for the trip to Team. He said: “Chaim Gothold has been in fine goal-scoring form and is looking to add to his tally before his suspension kicks in.
“RA Noe will be pleased that Gothold will be missing for a few games as the two of them are competing for the teams golden boot!”
“We bounced back well last week after our defeat and were superb for 75 minutes against Lions but conceded three late goals, so important we concentrate for 90 minutes.
“FC Team have had a few good results in the last few weeks and we expect another tough game.”
There was a big smile on the face of FC Team boss Ben Simon following the near-perfect performance that saw them sweep aside L’Equipe 4-0.
Freddie Marks and Adam Goldsmith maintained their free-scoring ways with Darren Freed and Emile Ben-Atar completing the rout.
Hendon won the first match against Team 2-1 when strikes from Gav Noe and Korman saw them home. I think it will be a case of déjà vu in another close contest.
JC team news: Hendon will be missing Chanania Engelsman who is still injured while Ari Nevies and Eyan Storfer are away. Gav Noe excelled in goal last week and may keep his place ahead of regular No. 1 Arthur Caplan. Danny Steel is a doubt due to work.
Venue – Meadow Park, Ref – N. Bloom
JC star man: Alon Blitz (Hendon)
DC Prediction: FC Team B 1 Hendon Utd SC B 2
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GLENTHORNE UTD A vs LM LIONS B
Anyone wondering through the London Marathon Playing Fields will be treated to a high-quality affair between title-seeking Glenthorne and Lions B.
Thornes player-manager Dan Lipman believes his team are back on track after a minor blip with 11 goals in their last two games, but they will take nothing for granted here.
Looking ahead to the game, Lipman told JC Sport: “It’s going to be a lot tougher than our last two games and considering they knocked us out of the cup we owe them.
“We’re going into the game at full strength for the first game in a long time.”
The Lions are advised to batten down the hatches as the Thornes are out for revenge.
After an encouraging start, the Lions have lost their way in the league with four straight defeats leaving fans feeling somewhat downbeat.
I expect the Rowley Lane boys to finish mid-table but it’s important they start picking up points to avoid being dragged into a relegation dog-fight.
Lions boss Jamie Kyte knows exactly what lies in store on Sunday. “When we played Glenthorne in the cup, maybe the scoreline was flattering. They're an organised team with some good players and as you can see from their league form, they are a good side.”
I can see it being tight for an hour, but then expect the Thornes to step up a gear.
Venue – London Marathon Playing Fields
JC star man: Scott Jay (Glenthorne)
DC Prediction: Glenthorne Utd A 3 LM Lions A 1
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NORSTAR B vs FAITHFOLD C
Early days I know but it would be fair to describe this as a relegation six-pointer as Norstar B lock horns with Faithfold C.
It’s hard to believe that Faithfold have yet to claim a league victory this season, with star striker Ben Simons on 13 goals. But clearly, the goal machine cannot do it all by himself.
The teams have recorded just one league win between them but you have to fancy Norstar given the number of goals Faithfold have conceded.
David Garson’s men will be glad to see the back of Glenthorne A. They conceded 11 goals in two games against the east Londoners and now it’s just a case of shutting up shop and trying to get points on the board.
After a Franco Baresi-esque performance at centre back last week, Garson returns to goal. Strangely nearly everyone is available this week after so many had to miss last week's trip to Essex. Scott Ackerman is in contention to make his full debut and Dan Lowen plays his last game before a self imposed suspension of sorts as he goes on holiday for two weeks with his wife.
Ben Portnoi is given a further break from carrying shopping bags and allowed to play. Rumours that Jerry Asher is to come out of retirement to shore up the defence have been dismissed.
A 6-1 win over win over FC Team B has been the only highlight for Norstar to date. But they came crashing down to earth in the 4-1 defeat against Redbridge last week and manager Jonny Bunt expects a big reaction in a game that neither side will need a teamtalk for.
It should be a good one for the neutrals as on the face of things, goals look guaranteed.
Venue – Ark Academy, Ref – S. Russell
JC star man: David Garson (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: Norstar B 3 Faithfold C 3
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DIVISION THREE
BLIZZARD STORM vs SHIRLEY PARK
Shirley Park remain well-placed to challenge for the title and I expect them to have too much for a Blizzard team who claimed their first league victory last week.
Dave Lusman’s troops got back to winning ways after two tough games against Glenthorne B with a 3-0 success over Neasden keeping them six points behind the Thornes with a game in hand.
Stefan Benfredj added another goal to his already impressive tally with Lee Bushell and Gideon Gold also on target.
Lusman hailed the brilliance of keeper Dan Oade after one stunning save, describing him as the Rene Higuita of the MSFL.
The waited and waited and waited, and finally Blizzard Storm won a league game. Oli Simons (2), Dan Vandermolen and Brett Freeman were the marksmen against Hendon but it could be a long 90 minutes for them on Sunday.
I’m not saying it’ll be men against boys but the words ‘let’s be avin ya’ could be bellowing out of the home dressing room at half time.
If you’re looking for match-winners, there are definitely more on the Shirley side.
It finished 4-2 last time and I can see it see the Park life running out winners by the same scoreline again.
Venue – Mill Hill Park, Ref – L. Thorne
JC star man: Lee Bushell (Shirley)
DC Prediction: Blizzard Storm 2 Shirley Park 4
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CATFORD & BROMLEY MACCABI vs TEAM JLGB
We’ll go in all guns blazing. That was the war-cry of Cats joint-manager Adam Lewis ahead of Sunday’s meeting against relegation rivals JLGB.
The Cats were involved in an eight-goal thriller against Los Blancos last Sunday when goals from Jonny Lee, Joel Isaacs and Jamie Sinai (2) earned them a deserved point.
Isaacs was the matchwinner when the teams met in September and he could be the man to look out for again.
Looking ahead to the crunch clash, Lewis told JC Sport: “We’ve got a strong team available this week, with plenty of players coming back from injury and absence.
“It's still unclear whether Oli Hitman will make his comeback anything more than a one-off but after his performance last Sunday we're working on persuading him to ignore the aches and pains and play regularly.
“Having Jonny Lee back last week for the first time this season was a reminder of just what a difference a quality player like him can make. We're also hoping he can keep himself fit and available as he gives us genuine quality.
“We know that JLGB are better than their record suggests. We had a tough game against them last time out and they've given a few other teams a scare as well.
“We'll have to make sure we're at our best and give them respect because they've got players who can do damage if you give them too much space.
“It would also be great to go into our cup game against North London Raiders A next week off the back of a win, so we'll be going all out to get a result and go into the cup clash on a high.
It’s been a testing start for the JLGB brigade so credit to manager Rob Silverman for keeping his team focused and committed.
JLGB gave Blancos a scare last time out and Silverman knows that if his boys do the basics then they have a chance. But it will need big performances from 1-11 against a Catford team packed with pace.
Silverman told JC Sport: “We’re expecting a close game on Sunday and are able to put out a fairly strong side.”
I think the Cats will get the cream on Sunday, but only just.
JC team news: JLGB welcome back Adam Conway, Rob Freedman and David Mitchell. Ian Levy, James Lester and Paul Black are unavailable and will be missed.
Venue – Norsemen FC
JC star man: Jamie Sinai (Catford)
DC Prediction: Catford & Bromley 3 Team JLGB 2
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HENDON UTD SC C vs UJIA
It’s a sign of how far UJIA have come that they gave a star-studded Glenthorne B a run for their money last week.
Darren Rolfe’s men came away with heads held high after his men gave it a good go in a 4-2 defeat against a team that has already look like champions, although I’m sure Shirley Park will have something to say about that!
Until last Sunday, the U’s had won five league games on the spin and I expect them to get back on track against Hendon.
Rolfe was proud of his troops last Sunday and is confident of coming away from West Hendon with maximum points.
He told JC Sport: “We’re still licking our wounds from last week’s defeat. We now need to get back to winning ways against Hendon.”
It looks like Glenthorne plus one will go up in May and Rolfe is confident his team will be in the mix. He added: “The league table doesn't lie!. You don't get anything for coming third, and maybe promotion.
“With another 24 points available, I’m sure there will be more twists and turns. We will be there in the shake up but we must beat the teams around us.”
Consistency has been a problem for Hendon this year. They won’t go up but manager Avi Gelley must ensure they continue to pick up the necessary number of points to ensure they don’t get dragged into the relegation dogfight.
But with Blizzard improving, Cats dangerous and JLGB fighting for their lives, it could be easier said than done.
JC team news: UJIA welcome back Assi Avital in attack while Paul Shamplina comes in for Ben Radstone, who is away on his own stag. Otherwise, they are unchanged.
Venue – West Hendon, Ref – Q. Fox
JC star man: Gavin Rhodes (UJIA)
DC Prediction: Hendon Utd SC C 1 UJIA 3
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NW NEASDEN C vs LOS BLANCOS
Los Blancos’ last-gasp equaliser against Catford last Sunday could be crucial come the end of the season.
Ariel Weinstein (2), Julian Gertner and Joel Kutner were the scorers in a thrilling 4-4 draw.
I expect them to find things even tough against a Neasden team smarting from the defeat against Shirley on Sunday though.
Neasden boss Louis Taylor offered no excuses after the 3-0 loss. In his midweek press conference, he told JC Sport: “As a club we were really disappointed with our performance last week, not just with how we played but our attitude as well.
“I have some big decisions to make regarding the squad for this week, with over 20 players available and 14 places up for grabs.
“There will be a lot of disappointed squad members but the people I pick will be expected to give 100 per cent commitment, both to playing football the way it should be played and in terms of effort on the pitch. This really is a pivotal match in our season.”
With Glenthorne and Shirley well placed to kick on in the new year, Blancos and Neasden cannot afford to drop many more points if they are to maintain automatic promotion hopes.
I think only one goal will separate the teams on Sunday.
JC team news: For Neasden, Tony Chadwick is struggling with a groin strain. New signing Alistair Marks may come straight into the squad. Phil Benson and Joel Kanutin are back from uni and hoping for a starting place.
Venue – Copthall, Ref – R. Benardout
JC star man: Julian Gertner (Blancos)
DC Prediction: NW Neasden C 1 Los Blancos 2
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DIVISION FOUR
BOCA JEWNIORS vs NL RAIDERS C
Can anyone stop Raiders C. That is the question being asked across changing rooms, delis, butchers and pubs in north west London. Well, maybe not pubs then!
Oli Shorts’ men will be looking to make it eight out of eight when they travel to Boca.
The prolific Ben Hart filled his boots in the 6-0 demolition of Brixton B last week, with Rob Samuelson (2) and one from James Sandrove completing the rout.
Shorts and his No. 2 Rich Abrahams will be asking for more of the same on Sunday.
Looking ahead to the match, Shorts took time out of his busy schedule to speak to JC Sport. “The old saying when you play against teams such as Boca Jewniors is not to be complacent. When times are tough things don’t go for you and we had the same problems last season.
“Boca have some good individuals and it’s important to win those key battles. If we do so then I expect a comfortable victory.
“We know that we should be getting three points from these type of games and with SPEC and Brady playing each other, we hope SPEC can do the business and that we can extend our lead at the top.”
Boca were on the receiving end of an 8-1 bashing against Brady B last Sunday and you have to fear for them here.
They made a nightmare start, trailing 6-0 at the break but improved in the second half with the talented Jamie Weinrich on target again.
Manager Sefton Monk is under no illusions as to how tough things will be on Sunday.
He said: “Up against the top team in the league, It will be an uphill struggle for sure.
“However, just looking at Boca, from the first game there have been improvements all over.
“We can show in large parts of matches that we are a team that can compete. It’s just keeping it going for the entire game.
“The management team are starting to form a settled starting XI and the players are getting used to each other.
“The spirit in the camp is still high and is matched by the commitment.
“Hopefully we can reward the die hard fans on Sunday morning, by fans, I mean my pet dogs!”
This one could be over by half time.
JC team news: For Raiders, Matt Greene is still on the long-term injury list however they welcome back the Fineman brothers and Jonny Skolnick. The other loss is Ben Stetson who is out for three weeks and Bob Vickers is still on holiday.
Venue – South Oxhey, Ref – D. Nathan
JC star man: Rob Samuelson (Raiders)
DC Prediction: Boca Jewniors 1 NL Raiders C 5
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BRIXTON OLD BOYS B vs ATHLETIC BILBAUM
With all eyes on Raiders C and Brady at the moment, the Bilbaum boys are in a handy position to claim a top four finish. But it’s clear that manager Mark Pasha and his merry men want more. Much more indeed.
The team has made a clear improvement this season and Pasha will challenge his troops to finish 2011 strongly and kick on in the new year.
Unbeaten in four, they are playing with great confidence and are really enjoying their football this year.
Up against a team that was hit for six, you have to fancy their chances.
It looked as though Brixton had turned the corner, but old habits die hard. They will have their work cut out trying to stop the Bilbaum boys on Sunday.
Venue – Clowes, Ref - N. Cohen
JC star man: Ben Bell (Bilbaum)
DC Prediction: Brixton OB B 0 Athletic Bilbaum 3
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SPEC FC vs BRADY MACCABI B
There’s a mouth-watering clash in store in Hatfield when high-flying Brady B put their 100 per cent league record on the line against ambitious SPEC FC.
If you recall, the teams met earlier in the season in a match that was abandoned after Elliot Wallis suffered a serious injury with Brady leading 1-0.
SPEC FC’s injury problem have been among the worst in the entire league this season so it’s credit to Laurence Conway and the boys for losing just one in seven games.
And there was good news coming out of the camp this week. Ricky Lawrence told JC Sport: “This week marks a bit of history for the reformed SPEC FC. It will be the first time this season where we have been able to name the same goalkeeper for the second week in a row.
“Nick Green will don the gloves once again for us, marking a record which I can't imagine many other teams could 'boast'.
“We know that Sunday is a big game. We are playing against a team who have won every game this season so we know we will have to be at our best.
“Brady have strengths in every position but we are hoping to be able to put in a performance that will boost our promotion hopes.
“We've done well this season at keeping things relatively tight at the back but we must start to add more goals to our play.
“If we are able to do that against Brady then we will definitely be heading in the right direction.”
As Lawrence says, the Brady bunch have hardly put a foot wrong this season. They go into the game on the back of six straight wins in the league and they’ve really look the part.
Top Cat Green will need to be on his toes as Brady have hit eight goals in their last two games and 29 in the last four.
They raced out of the blocks last Sunday, storming into a 6-0 lead at half time against Boca. James Joseph (2), Daniel Hildebrand (2), Josh Dagul, Jerome Colmans and Jason Davis completed the rout.
Player-manager Dagul, Joseph and Reiss Mogilner are bang in form on the goal front and this will lead to a thrilling clash.
Mark this down as one to keep an eye on.
Venue – Hatfield Uni, Ref – A. Djanogly
JC star man: Nick Green (SPEC FC)
DC Prediction: SPEC FC 2 Brady Maccabi B 2
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JEWVENTUS vs TEMPLE FORTUNE B
Promotion-chasing Temple Fortune B will need to be on their guard when they take on an in-form Jewventus at the Lodge.
Gabriel John’s men are bang in form having just completed a hat-trick of victories.
It was a case of the G-force last Sunday with Gary Conway and Guy Orr on target in the 2-1 win over FC Team C.
So the Jewve boys will go into the game in buoyant mood. “We’re still delighted after coming through a tough test last week, against a good FC Team side.
“I hope we can maintain the battling spirit and look to notch up our fourth consecutive win.
“I have all players available and two potential MONSTER signings in the wings.
“Things look good at Jewve again after a very tricky start.
“We would love three points but I know we'll be in for a huge battle Sunday, against some really experienced players.”
The signing of Joey Glynne is really paying dividends for Fortune this season. While player-manager Terry Jeffries has scored goals for fun, they are far more than a one-man team, even if Glynne isn’t as quick as he used to be.
A home win on Sunday would be a massive lift for the boys in black and white and would close the gap between the teams to four points with a game in hand.
This match won’t disappoint.
JC team news: Jewventus manager Gabriel John confirmed on Friday the signings of former Premier Division players Ami Wynbourne and Mike Gill. A delighted John told JC Sport: "These are two superb footballers who will add class and quality to an already strong squad."
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – N. Burns
JC star man: Gary Conway (Jewventus)
DC Prediction: Jewventus 2 Temple Fortune B 2
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FC TEAM C vs ATHLETIC FINCHLEY
Michael Myers’ men go into this game with the psychological edge having beaten Finchley at the end of September.
Max Worth and David Cohen were the marksmen in a 2-1 win. I can see things being just as tight again on Sunday.
Edged out by Jewventus last weekend, Myers is targeting three points.
“We are looking to bounce-back from last week and we have some big games coming up so hoping to get out of this losing streak and get back to winning ways,” he told JC Sport.
“We have beaten this team twice already so we know what to expect. I am still missing a lot of players from injuries and being at uni, but my team is still strong enough to get the win. I’m expecting a very close, hard-fought game.”
Finchley were edged out by the same scoreline last Sunday but they will go into the game believing they can win.
Chairman Zach Margolin told JC Sport: “We are looking for a victory. We have had two very close encounters with FC Team C already, with them snatching late victories on both occasions. We have moved on from last Sunday and ready to win.
“With new signings and an improved team spirit, we look forward to a tough match up, with Athletico hopefully coming out on top.”
2-1 seems to be a pattern at the moment and with home advantage, I’m tipping Team to edge it.
JC team news: Finchley expect Jack Wagner and Mikey Salem to return to the squad. Dovid Kurzer is out after a recurring ankle injury.
Ref – M. Cowan
JC star man: Mikey Salem (Finchley)
DC Prediction: FC Team C Athletic Finchley 1
