There's more action in the Morrison as Temple Fortune A head to South Manchester, plus some mouth-watering action in the JC MSFL, and from this week, JC Sports Editor Danny Caro will invite an MSFL manager to pit their wits against him prediction-wise. Week One sees North London Raiders A boss Rob Richman go head-to-head.
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LATEST: PETER MORRISON TROPHY QUARTER-FINAL DRAW
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REPUBLIC OF FLIXTON vs CHIGWELL ATHLETIC - MATCH PHOTOS
CAMDEN PARK vs HAROLDEANS - MATCH PHOTOS
CAMDEN PARK vs HAROLDEANS - VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
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TOP-SCORERS
28 - Jamie Kent (Shirley Park)
26 - Ben Zloof (AC Mill Hill)
18 - Lee Cash (LM Lions A - 10 for Neasden A), Adam Hersh (Los Blancos)
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DANNY CARO'S MATCHDAY 21 OSCARS
PLAYER OF THE WEEK - BEN JOSEPH (BRADY A) - CLICK FOR DETAILS
MANAGER OF THE WEEK - DARYL PHILLIPS (FAITHFOLD A) - CLICK FOR DETAILS
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GOAL OF THE WEEK - JONNY COHEN (NEASDEN B) - CLICK FOR DETAILS
SAVE OF THE WEEK - MATT KEMP (REDBRIDGE JC B) - CLICK FOR DETAILS
QUOTE OF THE WEEK - ANDY LANDESBERG (LM LIONS A) - CLICK FOR DETAILS
JC REFEREE OF THE WEEK
Martin Lavender (Athletic Bilbaum vs SPEC FC)
JC MISS OF THE WEEK
Jonathan Green (Brady Maccabi A)
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YOUR WEEKEND REVIEW STARTS HERE:
PETER MORRISON TROPHY NATIONAL ROUND LAST 16
SOUTH MANCHESTER SPORTS CLUB 1st vs TEMPLE FORTUNE A
I doubt any Temple Fortune players would’ve heard of South Manchester’s Adam Lavin, but on the flipside, I have absolutely no doubt they would’ve come 3.15pm on Sunday afternoon.
While some of the Fortune squad will leave north-west London on Friday, others are leaving the journey up the M6 until the morning of the game. Take note, Chigwell Athletic and Liverpool Haroldeans both travelled on matchday last weekend and came home empty-handed. It definitely makes a difference.
South Manchester have enjoyed an excellent couple of seasons. Under Darryl Lee, they won their league last season and with new management in place over the summer, they are flying high again, with top-scorer Lavin doing the business on a regular basis.
However, their hopes of silverware in the Handicup competition this season came to a grinding halt last weekend when they were knocked out, so no doubt Loz Newman will have his men focused on the task at hand as this is a competition they can, and really want to do well in. That said, should they progress, I doubt we’ll see any David Pleat-style celebrations from SMSC’s legendary chairman Jonny Davis.
Fortune warmed-up for the tie with a comfortable 3-1 win over Southgate Harmen. Brett Stead, Kane Gilbery and Dan Orgel.
The boys in the famous yellow and red colours start as underdogs, but South should definitely not under-estimate them. Orgel and Michael Goldberg are two potential match-winners that the hosts must look out for.
But when all is said and done, I think home advantage, together with a little magic from the boy Lavin, will help go through.
Venue – The Armitage, KO – 1.30pm,
Ref – Not sure of his name, but according to once SMSC source, his motto is “if you talk, you walk”
JC star man: Adam Lavin
DC Prediction: South Manchester SC 2 Temple Fortune A 1
RR Prediction: South Manchester SC 3 Temple Fortune A 0
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JC MSFL PREMIER DIVISION
TOP-SCORERS
18 - Lee Cash (LM Lions A - 10 for Neasden A)
14 - Adam Stolerman (Redbridge JC A)
11 - Daryl Phillips (Faithfold A), Josh Green (Norstar A)
DANNY CARO'S PREM DIV TEAM OF THE WEEK
OAKWOOD A vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB A
There won’t be an empty seat in Garston when leaders Hendon come to town to tackle on the mighty Oaks in what will be an absolute crackerjack of a match.
The teams finished honours even in September when Hendon old boy Josh Bentley and Alex Rosenthal exchanged goals and another tight affair looks on the cards. Hendon almost won it late on, but Ari Last missed a penalty.
While Hendon stayed warm last weekend and enjoyed an extra shluff, the Oakwood boys were hitting Norstar for six, with Brad Wine chief tormentor.
Oakwood start Sunday’s match a massive 11 points behind Hendon, but they also have four games in hand, so victory over the defending champions would really make things interesting …
Looking ahead to the big match, Oakwood joint-manager Ric Blank told JC Sport: “Sunday will be our third Premier game in three weeks. If we're not careful we're in danger of turning into a football club that actually plays football. It's not what some of the players signed up for. The look on Toby Levy's face when he got mud on his shorts last week was frightening. He looked appalled. But, needs must, needs must.
“Ilan The King Scorah has had his winter haircut (short at the back) and captain Adam Levine is enjoying his football so much he tackled a cone at training last night. The cone's drop of the shoulder was truly something to behold. Usually players run round the cones....this was the other way round.
“We're up for Sunday in a massively huge way. Hendon were extremely fortunate to beat us in the PM final in May followed by a hard fought draw at Bricket Wood earlier this year. We are a team with a cause and we truly believe we can beat the best. And Hendon are without doubt the best side we have played. They are strong, fit and determined with some talented players. We can match them - and we'll have to to get anything out of the game. But we are Oakwood, super Oakwood and spirit is good, competition for places is fierce so we'll give it a go.”
Hendon manager David Garbacz will remind his troops just how close Oakwood have run them in the last two meetings. They will need to show great resilience and determination to come away from Parmiters with anything.
Garbacz told JC Sport: “Having gone out of the Anekstein in such heart-breaking fashion last time out we are more determined than ever to maintain a strong challenge for the league.
“We have six massive cup finals to play and I’m not sure any of them will be more challenging than Oakwood away. They are an exceptionally well-organised outfit who are incredibly hard to beat . They themselves I’m sure will still harbour title hopes as they have numerous games in hand and will see this fixture as pivotal.
“For us, I will be telling the boys to remain patient and to keep our shape and to take our chances. A draw will not do – we will be going for the three points and I predict a reasonably tight first half but with the game opening up a lot more after half time.
“Danny Kon has looked as sharp as I’ve ever seen him in recent weeks and put in a sensational shift in training in midweek – I’m hoping he will transform that form to the big stage on Sunday and if he does he could well be the difference. This will be a high quality technical affair and it is vital we come out on top.”
Once again, I don’t think there will be anything to separate the teams and that could play right into the hands of Faithfold.
JC team news: Davide Braude is a major doubt for Oakwood, while Bobbie Cousins is unavailable, but other than that the hosts are “OK”.
Gaffer Garbacz reports “Hendon are missing Yoav Kestenbaum (university), Alex Nadler (work commitments), Martin Smulovitch (romantic weekend away with wife- his not mine) and Alex Gilbert (Darren Andertonitis).”
Venue – Parmiters, Ref – Warwick Blake
JC star man: Danny Kon (Hendon)
DC Prediction: Oakwood 1 Hendon 1
RR Prediction: Oakwood 2 Hendon 2
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FC TEAM A vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS A
Raiders are one of the form teams in the league at the moment although they will be looking to make history and beat FC Team A for the first time on grass in 90 minutes in the MSFL on Sunday.
L’Orange came through a cup epic in the Morrison last Sunday when keeper Dave Simnock stole the headlines with an heroic display in a match that went to penalties. He made one brave, top-class save to deny Team danger man Richard Salmon in open play and followed that up with three stunning saves in the shootout in a game Raiders led twice through goals from striker David Dinkin - one a penalty, the other a sensational free-kick,
Looking ahead to the game, Raiders boss Rob Richman told JC Sport: “Sunday sees our third and final game of the season vs. FC Team. We have played Team at least twice a season for the last four seasons and having played them just last week we will be fully prepared for what they will throw at us on Sunday.
“As Johnny Pearl pointed out to me after last week’s game, whatever the result between us you always get a fiercely competitive game between our two sides.
“The fact that we have never beaten them in 90 minutes on grass still pains me slightly and I know we will be going full out to get a victory Sunday morning.’
Although neither team is challenging for honours at the top of the table, both will be determined to finish the season as high as possible.
No doubt, FC Team believe they owe Raiders one after last weekend. Manager Mitch Young wanted his players to progress in the cups this year but results haven’t gone their way.
Team have lost just once in five home league games this season and will pull out all the stops in a bid to exact revenge.
I can see this ending in another entertaining draw after 90 minutes.
JC team news: Raiders captain and current stand-out performer this season Rik Sherman is away, but they are otherwise at full strength.
Venue – Meadow Park, Ref – Laurie Benson
JC star man: Dan Grossman (Raiders)
DC Prediction: FC Team A 2 NL Raiders A 2
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BRADY MACCABI A vs LONDON MACCABI LIONS A
“Can we play you every week, can we play you every week.” That was the cry from the Brady fans after they hammered the Lions 8-1 in the Morrison last Sunday.
It was a day the Lions will want to forget, and forget very quickly indeed. Come Sunday, the seven-day gap between the matches would’ve felt like a very long time, especially for keeper Max Shields who had a morning he will want to forget.
A quick look at the team news section will tell you Landesberg has acted hastily to ensure there isn’t a repeat performance, although Lions fans can’t wait for Dec Green to return in nets some time soon.
But knowing manager Andy Landesberg as I do, he will be delighted that they have a chance to set the record straight almost immediately. However, he won’t be happy to hear who Brady have just signed, yes, none other than Paul Hakim. I’m sure you’ve heard of him.
Brady boss Joel Nathan, who can be excused for being a little broiges for not winning the JC Manager of the Week award, was delighted to sign the Team GB hotshot. Hakim is as good as they come in Jewish footballing terms and will be licking his lips at the prospect at adding to Lions’ woes.
I bumped into Lions kitman Dave Snellman in Paddy Power this week and even he must’ve been tempted by the odds of 100-1 on a repeat Brady performance.
Nathan knows that Sunday will be much tougher although, with a strengthened forward line, they will be disappointed not to finish the season with silverware. But they have ground to make up in the league and maximum points are essential this weekend.
“Last week counts for nothing if we can’t take three points on Sunday,” Nathan told JC Sport. “I am sure the Lions management as well as the players they pick will be out for revenge as no one like to be beaten by a big score line, but rest assured the 14 boys we pick will be ready and waiting for them.
“The League table is so tight from third down ninth, so we really cannot afford to lose on Sunday and I am sure it will be a cracking game. It is great that we know have 16/17 players available for selection each week which means there is great competition for starting places.”
It would be safe to say that Landesberg will be looking for a very bid reaction from his men and it’s important they don’t concede early doors.
He told JC Sport: “After Sundays mauling, there is not much to say, except we will never roll over like that again.
“This will be a real test to show what we are made of, and I am sure that this will be a different Lions who turn up on Sunday morning.”
The Lions are a proud bunch and there’s no way they’ll roll over like they did last Sunday. They came unstuck against the brilliance of Ben Joseph last time and may well stick a man-marker on him, but even that may not be enough to silence their noisy neighbours.
JC team news: Brady are still missing Joel Lassman due to injury, but they welcome back Nicky Smith as well as Zack White who was cup tied last week.
For Lions, Lee Cash and Danny Daggers return and new signing Goalkeeper Jake Doffman will start.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – Steve Levy
JC star man: Alex Hershman (Brady)
DC Prediction: Brady 3 Lions A 1
RR Prediction: Brady 3 Lions A 3
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BRIXTON OLD BOYS vs FAITHFOLD A
Paul Babai and Alex Kaye. I can’t think of a better midfield pairing in the league than that right now. It would certainly give Steven Gerrard and Jack Wilshere a run for their money.
Faithfold marched into the semi-finals of the London FA Sunday Intermediate Cup last weekend when they came from behind in a Mike Pearson-inspired performance. The former Aldershot striker cracked home a hat-trick in an impressive 4-1 win over E.Y International, with Dan Stock scoring the other.
The Superhoops return to league action on Sunday and they will go to Barrowell Green looking to enhance their quadruple credentials, and manager Zuriel Solomons hopes they can finish the weekend in top spot.
After the pre-match press conference, I managed to grab a few minutes with Solomons. He told JC Sport: “We return to league action where we haven't played for a while and we’re looking forward to Sunday.
“We are playing a Brixton team who have had some decent results and are strong at home and these are the sort of games you have to turn up to if not you can come away with the wrong result.
“They have some good players if you let dictate can hurt you so we will have to be on our game.
John Nitka’s men were battered 5-1 on the opening weekend of the season, when Yoni Raeburn went home with the matchball following a top-notch hat-trick.
At the time, Brixton cited a lack of match fitness and concentration and Nitka knows they will have to start well on Sunday, against a Faithfold team playing with bags of confidence.
The departure of Jake Doffman to Lions this week has left a big gap to fill in nets. Nitka has been searching frantically for a new keeper and I’ve heard reports he’s considering playing in goal himself.
With Raiders picking up and Lions reinforcing in recent weeks, Brixton are favourites to join Norstar as far as the final relegation places go. It’s up to them to prove everyone wrong, starting on Sunday.
JC team news: Faithfold are missing captain Alex levack and Dan Stock, but are otherwise a full-strength.
Venue – Clowes, Ref – Adam Lewis
JC star man: Paul Babai (Faithfold)
DC Prediction: Brixton 1 Faithfold A 3
RR Prediction: Brixton 0 Faithfold A 3
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DIVISION ONE
TOP-SCORERS
28 - Jamie Kent (Shirley Park)
14 - Yishai Last (Hendon B)
10 - Chaim Gothold (Hendon B), Stefan Benfredj, Gideon Gold (both Shirley Park)
DANNY CARO'S DIV ONE TEAM OF THE WEEK
FAITHFOLD B vs SOUTHGATE HARMEN
There’s still plenty of tickets available for Sunday’s meeting between Faithfold B and Harmen at the Lodge.
Harmen went down 3-1 at Fortune last week and they last won a league game on November 11.
Scoring goals remains a problem for Dan Uzan’s men and they will need to take their chances against a Faithfold team fighting for survival.
The teams shared the points after a 1-1 stalemate on the opening weekend of the season and another war of attrition is on the cards.
Goalless draws are a rare commodity in the JC MSFL but I think that’s how it will pan out in a game dominated by defences on Sunday.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – Robert Benardout
JC star man: Alex Bull (Harmen)
DC Prediction: Faithfold B 0 Southgate Harmen 0
RR Prediction: Faithfold B 1 Southgate Harmen 3
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HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB B vs WOODFORD WANDERERS
Woodford have now taken over the mantle as the team that has played the least matches in the JC MSFL this season.
Oakwood held it for a while, but have since caught up and now the east Londoners who are playing catch-up. Paul Hyams’ men have played a paltry six games in the league and it’s vital they start picking up points, starting on Sunday.
Woodford keeper Ben Rosenthal told JC Sport: “After weeks of bad weather and the London FA Cup, wereturn to league action with a tough trip away to Hendon B. Manager Paul Hyams is set to ring the changes after a heavy defeat in the cup last week.
“The gaffer has said how important it is to crack on in the league now. We have games in hand and need to start winning.”
With their A-team in the Premier, Hendon know they can’t go up but they will be looking to finish as high up the table as possible. They came away from last week’s clash against promotion-chasing Glenthorne with a well-earned point courtesy of another goal from the prolific RA Noe.
Centre halves Tali Nevies and Alon Blitz put in eye-catching displays as the Hornets kept the Glenthorne machine in check and they will feel a similar level of performance will be enough to earn them three points on Sunday.
However, there is hope for Woodford as Hendon haven’t won any of their last four home league games, so if the east Londoners play their cards right I can see them heading back down the A406 with something to show for their efforts.
JC team news: Ell Gold, Joe Sumray, Dave Cohen and Daryl Kay all return for Woodford but keeper Ben Rosenthal could be out after a late phone call to travel to Milan.
Venue – West Hendon, Ref – John Feenstra
JC star man: Dave Cohen (Woodford)
DC Prediction: Hendon B 2 Woodford 2
RR Prediction: Hendon B 2 Woodford 3
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UJIA vs CHIGWELL ATHLETIC
Chigwell came away from Manchester heads held high after bowing out of the Morrison last Sunday.
Manager Richard Slater was proud of his players after an almighty battle and he believes that a similar effort will be rewarded with their third league win when they make the long trip to Mill Hill on Sunday.
Slater singled out defenders Jon Raven, Paul Lenchner and new signing Greg Lautman after what he described as “an excellent team performance”.
The long-standing supremo has challenged his team to gather as many points as they can from their remaining fixtures and he’s got this one marked down for three points in what should be a good, old-fashioned contest, with neither team holding back.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Slater told JC Sport: “Despite the defeat last weekend in Manchester, the squad are in good spirits. We were unlucky but the performance was really positive.
“Again this weekend we're missing a few players, but nothing less than three points again an improving UJIA will do.”
JC team news: Chigwell keeper James Swead is back in between the sticks after last weeks Maccabiah outing, along with defender Jonathan Swead who also featured for Maccabiah Masters. Lee Hyams also returns.
UJIA have shown signs of improvement in recent weeks, but it could be too little, too late. Manager Ben Radstone is determined to get every ounce of energy and effort out of his players in their remaining games, but he knows the table never lies.
U's boss Ben Radstone told JC Sport: "We have no injuries but I think we will be in for a tough game."
I don’t think there will be much between the teams on Sunday but am tipping Chigwell to edge home.
Venue – Chase Lodge, Ref – Neil Cooper
JC star man: Craig Pearl (Chigwell)
DC Prediction: UJIA 1 Chigwell 2
RR Prediction: UJIA 1 Chigwell 3
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LONDON MACCABI LIONS B vs SHIRLEY PARK
There’s another good game in store at the Lane when leaders Shirley take on third place Lions B.
Seven points currently separate the teams, although Jamie Kyte’s troops have five games in hand.
The Lions suffered a rare defeat last weekend, but it came in the cup so they didn’t lose any ground on the top two. However, their fans were hoping for a good run in the Morrison and weren’t best pleased their heroes came undone against a bunch of over 35-year-olds.
Speaking to JC Sport ahead of the game, Lions boss Jamie Kyte said: "We've got a full squad this week and we're looking to do the double over Shirley. Once again we need to keep Kent quiet as we know what a nuisance he is if he has his way.
"This week and hopefully for the rest of the season we've got Lorian Madanes to ply his trade for the Bs and he will no doubt be a great asset to the team."
Shirley, who are once again the top-scorers in the league this season, also beat a team who, give or take a player, were no spring chickens in North West Neasden. Jamie Kent (2), Stefan Benfredj, Daniel Oade and Dave Lusman ran in the goals in a 5-2 victory.
Kent’s double saw him once again pull clear of Ben Zloof at the top of the JC MSFL goal charts and he’s desperate to win the Golden Boot this term after going so close last year.
Looking ahead to the game, Shirley player-manager Dave Lusman told JC Sport: "I'm expecting a tough fixture, especially as we're missing a few key players, but we have a capable squad to give Lions a run for their money. It will be an interesting one."
But chances could be at a premium against a resolute Lions back line, but that said, his head-to-head with Lions hotshot James Gold could be worth the admission fee alone.
Venue – Rowley Lane, Ref – Martin Lavender
JC star man: Dave Lusman (Shirley)
DC Prediction: Lions B 2 Shirley Park 2
RR Prediction: Lions B 4 Shirley Park 2
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NORTH WEST NEASDEN B vs CAMDEN PARK
This is now turning into a very good season indeed for anyone connected to Camden Park.
Last weekend they booked their place in the hat for the quarter-finals of the Peter Morrison Trophy following a terrific win over Liverpool Haroldeans.
They left it late though, with goals in the last 10 minutes from Mike Khalastchi and Guy Marks taking them through. And if they can get a home draw, they will fancy themselves against most teams.
The thing about Camden this season is that they are sharing the goals around. Richard Silver is a regular goal-getter but manager Josh Marks knowing his players are capable of springing up from all positions.
Having claimed six wins from their first nine games in Division One this season, Marks knows they have plenty to do if they are to gatecrash the promotion party.
Currently lying in fourth spot, they make the trip to an experienced Neasden team who were on the receiving end of a 5-2 defeat against leaders Shirley last Sunday.
If there were two positives to take out of the game, the first was the performance of Adam Klein who looked right at home in the middle of the park. “I bossed it,” Kleiny was heard telling Hodes after the game. Yeah, you keep believing that Kleiny!
The other thing that struck me was a goal scored by Jonathan ‘JC’ Cohen. It also found the top corner/top bins, postage stamp. JC certainly hasn’t hit many better than that and now that he has the bit between his teeth, Camden beware. That is the message.
But Camden will fancy getting behind a NWN defence featuring Phil Smith, Jon Kaye, Adam ‘Shaggy’ Leveson and Daniel Lack.
As long as they get their shape and their attitude is spot on, my money would be on another Camden win.
Venue – Hadley FC, Ref – Tony McEvoy
JC star man: Guy Marks (Camden)
DC Prediction: Neasden A 1 Camden 3
RR Prediction: Neasden A 0 Camden 3
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DIVISION TWO
TOP-SCORERS
17 - Adam Hersh (Los Blancos)
11 - Reiss Mogilner, Dan Hildebrand (both Brady B)
DANNY CARO'S DIV TWO TEAM OF THE WEEK
NORSTAR B vs LOS BLANCOS
Norstar boss David Lubczanski hopes that it’s a case of ninth time lucky as lowly Norstar B entertain high-flying Blancos in Harrow.
Lubczanski will need no reminding what happened the last time the teams met – there were fireworks on Guy Fawkes night as they were thumped 8-0.
Blancos player-manager Adam Hersh (3) filled his boots, while Mikey Mendelsohn, Aryeh Marks, Sami Birnbaum, Adam Waters and Joel Kutner joined the party.
However, Lubczanski his troops will give a better account of themselves second time around. He told JC Sport: “We have found it tough so far this season, but we have looked to strengthen and enhance our squad. We haven't scored many goals and conceded too easily, and this week we will turn it around.
“Los Blancos battered us in our last game against them, conceding in the first minute or so, but we have 14 games to go and a season to turn around ...”
Hersh fired his 18th league goal of the season as his team got back on the winning trail against the Cats last Sunday. They did it the hard way, though, coming from two goals down, with Josh Caplin and Josh Gaon also finding the net.
Hersh told JC Sport: “Last week’s performance was poor despite the win. We're looking to improve and win convincingly this week.”
Blancos’ form on the road has been inconsistent but I think they will have too much for Norstar on the day.
JC team news: Norstar welcome Phil Peters into the squad, hoping he can bring a bit of magic and goals, but are still missing Sam Levin, Adam Graham and Eli Houri due to long-term injuries. The trio have all been ruled out for the rest of the season. Rafi Addlestone is away.
Blancos are missing their rock of a centre half - Aryeh Marks - along with a few more absentees, but they still have a very strong squad available for Sunday.
Venue – John Lyons School, Ref – Neal Cohen
JC star man: Josh Caplin (Blancos)
DC Prediction: Norstar 1 Blancos 3
RR Prediction: Norstar 4 Blancos 4
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BLIZZARD STORM vs SPEC FC
I expect there to be plenty more twists and turns in the Division Two promotion race, but on Sunday SPEC FC will look to extend their unbeaten league run to five matches when they make the trip to Blizzard in Hampstead.
The only real thing missing from Laurence Conway’s team is a real fox-in-the-box, a player you can rely on to score 20-odd goals a season, like Hildebrand at Brady, Gilbert at Bilbaum and Hersh at Blancos.
On the flipside, however, they have been scoring goals from all over the park this season and more of the same will be the order of the day.
In last weekend’s draw against the Baums, Dan Amram, Elliott Wallis and James Lesner found the net and Conway will be pleased to know he has two reliable penalty-takers in Ricky Lawrence and Lesner as spot-kicks could play a part in the business end of the season.
Looking ahead to Sunday’s match against Blizzard, Lawrence told JC Sport: “It’s simple. Only a win will do. We know nothing about Blizzard Storm so we have no idea what to expect. With James Segal in the squad though, could this be the week he breaks his competitive duck?”
Blizzard boss Simon Linden will be glad to be back on grass after last week’s 5-0 mauling at Raiders B. His team lies just outside of the relegation zone and must start scrapping as though their lives depend on it in a bid to pick up some points.
Even though they have home advantage, it’s hard to see Blizzard picking up anything against an in-form SPEC team.
Venue - Hampstead Heath, Ref - Andy Myerson
JC star man: James Segal (SPEC FC)
DC Prediction: Blizzard 1 SPEC FC 2
RR Prediction: Blizzard 0 SPEC FC 2
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CATFORD & BROMLEY MACCABI vs FC TEAM B
The Cats missed a big opportunity last weekend when they allowed a two goal lead to slip against Los Blancos.
The were still leading (2-1) with 10 minutes to go but a missed penalty and two Blancos goals saw them come away empty-handed.
There was disappointment all round in the Catford camp and manager Lester Jacobs and captain Adam Luria have been trying to lift chins off the ground this week.
The Cats were a bit unlucky last week but they must start making their own luck, starting on Sunday when they entertain FC Team B.
Ben Simon’s troops were involved in a five-goal thriller last weekend. They did well to come back from two goals down, but ultimately fell short. Freddie Marks continued his good goal-scoring form, while it was good to see Adam Newsome pop up with a goal.
Indeed, it was Marks who scored four times in the recent 6-2 demolition of the Cats and the home side will give him all the respect he deserves. But they continue to leak goals at an alarming rate and that will play right into the hands of the boys in yellow and blue.
Venue – Norsemen FC, Ref – Barry David
JC star man: Adam Newsome (Team)
DC Prediction: Catford & Bromley 2 FC Team B 3
RR Prediction: Catford & Bromley 2 FC Team B 2
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GLENTHORNE UNITED B vs BRADY MACCABI B
Glenthorne are one of just two teams to have beaten Division Two table-toppers Brady B this season but you can get 5-1 on them completing a league double over the Rowley Lane outfit on Sunday.
Adam Goldman, Jay Lawrence and Ryan Cole were the goal men for the Thornes in that famous win which now looks like a distant memory.
The match was settled by a top-notch free-kick from Lawrence and his managers, Liam Stein and Jordan Sapler, would love him to pull something similar out of the hat on Sunday.
Sapler told JC Sport: “It’s a tough, tough game this week against easily the best team in the division. We could have done with a couple of our games being on over the last two months but we will have to make do.
“We won last time against them so we know on our day we're more than capable of winning this fixture.”
There’s just no stopping Brady at the minute. They moved three points clear following a brilliant 3-2 win over long-time leaders Neasden B, with Reiss Mogilner steering them home with another double.
But it was Jason Davis who was named man-of-the-match following his outstanding performance in the middle of the park.
Many teams have slipped up on a freezing cold morning in east London, but I don’t think Brady will make that mistake.
JC team news: Simon Bagel and Jay Lawrence are still out for Glenthorne who are hopeful that aside from those absentees, they will have a full team to choose from.
Venue – Ford Sports & Social, Ref – Alan Russell
JC star man: Jason Davis (Brady)
DC Prediction: Glenthorne B 2 Brady B 4
RR Prediction: Glenthorne B 2 Brady B 5
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NORTH WEST NEASDEN B vs NORTH LONDON RAIDERS B
Bouncebackability is the name of the game for Neasden B on Sunday as they look to get their title bid back on track.
They came away empty-handed from last week’s top-of-the-table clash against Brady B, when they were undone by a late winner. That’s four defeats they have suffered now and it’s vital they pick up maximum points in front of their own fans on Sunday.
NWN boss Adam Levene felt his team deserved a point last week, but he made no excuses at the final whistle. Defeats in their last two home games has opened the way for Blancos, Bilbaum and SPEC and that is why a win is so important here.
But things may not get any easier for Levene and co when they host an in-form Raiders B. Oli Shorts’ men have won their last three and look as though they finally mean business.
Simon Buchler (2), Ben Hart, Nicky Woolf and Ethan Zone found the net in last week’s 5-0 success over Blizzard and all of a sudden look a different proposition. A front three of Hart, Woolf and Zone would frighten the life out of most defences at this level and Shorts is determined to turn around their fortunes on the road.
He told JC Sport: “The players don't need reminding of their poor away form going into Sunday’s game.
“We've come full circle since the start of the season and results are clear for everyone to see. Rich and I have always said that we weren't getting the results our performances deserve, but this has changed.
“It's a massive two weeks for the club and everyone at Raiders knows that two big wins will propel us into a chance for promotion.
“We're aware of the threat of Neasden and it's a shame that we see a host of players injured for the fixture. Jonny Blain missed out against his old side due to injury, but we've heard some good news regarding his damaged knee as he hopes to be back by the of Feb. Other injuries include Sammy, Shamash and Israel whilst Ethan Zone is away watching men chase an egg- shaped ball.”
Neasden have experience on their side and they might just need that on Sunday.
Ref – Gary Silver
JC star man: Tony Chadwyck (Neasden)
DC Prediction: Neasden B 2 Raiders B 2
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REDBRIDGE JEWISH CARE B vs ATHLETIC BILBAUM
Redbridge B claimed a much-needed win last weekend, but Jon Jacobs’ men will find things much tougher on Sunday when promotion-chasing Bilbaum come to town.
Keeper Matt Kemp and Richard Gold were the stars of the show in the thrilling victory at FC Team B. Indeed, Gold’s winning strike got the RJC crowd off their seats in more ways than one. Dan Gordon and Scott Oldstein were their other scorers on the day.
Meeting Bilbaum for the first time this season, Jacobs is preparing his troops for what could be their toughest test this season. He told JC Sport: “We have major problems in the midfield this week so it will be a makeshift in the middle of the park.
“So we are down to the bare bones, but my hope is that we are able to do ourselves justice against a very strong Athletico Bilbaum team.”
The Baums were involved in a real thriller against SPEC FC last Sunday. Sam Roth picked up a serious looking injury but I’ve been told he’s been having round-the-clock treatment in a bid to make the squad for the long trek east.
Jake Gilbert was the star man against for the Baums, leading the SPEC backline a merry dance. Ed Green also proved a real handful and with Ben Bell also contributing goals on a regular basis, I envisage a game that sees RJC on the back-foot for long spells, and, this time, not even the heroics of Kemp will be able to save them.
JC team news: Elliot Castle still unavailable for RJC, and Josh Taylor and Matt Berkley are out injured. Also missing are Top goal-scorer Dan Gordon and “sidekick” Saul Green.
Venue – Fairlop, Ref – Adam Yuchetel
JC star man: Ed Green (Bilbaum)
DC Prediction: Redbridge B 0 Athletic Bilbaum 3
RR Prediction: Redbridge B 0 Athletic Bilbaum 3
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DIVISION THREE
TOP-SCORERS
26 - Ben Zloof (AC Mill Hill)
16 - Jono Gaon (Tottenham Chutspah), Alex Elf (Hendon Utd SC C), Ben Polak (Oakwood B)
13 - Richard Fogelman (Jewventus)
12 - Terry Jeffries (Temple Fortune B)
11 - David Joseph Cohen (FC Team C)
DANNY CARO'S DIV THREE TEAM OF THE WEEK
FC TEAM C vs JEWVENTUS
I can see Jewve keeper Dan Cohen being a very busy man on Sunday morning, and his manager, Gabriel John, must hope the young stopper doesn’t get lucky on Saturday night as he’ll need a clear head and full focus on the task at hand.
This FC Team C side are the real deal and have been scoring goals for fun this season. They have turned in a colossus, a juggernaut if you like.
Looking ahead to the game, John told JC Sport: "It will be a really tough game against good opposition.
With a number of regulars away it will be a tough battle for us, but as with any Jewventus side we'll give it our all and look to cause an upset."
With games in hand on the top two, they are the favourites to take the title and not even the heroics of Cohen will stop them completing a league double over Jewve on Sunday.
Adam Aminoff (2), Eitan Ben-Zion and David James Cohen (2) were the goal men for Team in October’s 5-2 victory. Last weekend it was the other Cohen, David Joseph who took centre stage with a fab four-goal salvo in the 10-1 demolition of Loughton Orient. Indeed, it’s hard to spot a weakness anywhere in the squad run by Ben Gilbey and Michael Myers.
And, as they go in search of win no. 10, Myers told JC Sport: “We’re hoping for a continuation of last week, I hope. The attack were in fine form and this shall continue. We posses the strength in depth we lacked last year, and it is definitely one of the reasons we are still unbeaten in the league.”
Jewve have some good players, but they haven’t been playing to a high level as a unit as manager Gabriel John believes they can and I think their shortcomings will be there for everyone to see on Sunday.
Venue – Aycliffe Road, Ref – Laurence Thorne
JC star man: David Joseph Cohen
DC Prediction: FC Team C 4 Jewventus 1
RR Prediction: FC Team C 6 Jewventus 3
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AC MILL HILL vs FAITHFOLD C
Joe Levy this week began the long road to recovery following his unfortunate leg break.
The Mill Hill player-manager snapped his fibula and tibia in a challenge that forced last Sunday’s match against L’Equipe to be abandoned.
The Mill Hill boys will start match no. 14 against Faithfold C top of the table on goal difference. With Oakwood B joining them on 32 points, and FC Team C showing real championship qualities, it’s vital they don’t slip up here.
Faithfold gave Oakwood a good game, without really testing keeper Oren Hury. Player-manager David Garson hopes his players can push on for a top four finish, with the gaffer hoping his players don’t draw a blank for the fifth time this season.
Comfortably beaten by Mill Hill over Chanukah, Garson has been watching DVDs of the match in which Ben Zloof scored one of his incredible six hat-tricks this season. He is as important to Mill Hill as RVP is to Man Utd.
But Zloof won’t be the only quality striker on show. Ben Simons is ready to produce something special against a Mill Hill team littered with Faithfold old boys.
The bottom line is that Mill Hill are averaging more than four goals a game and I think they’ll have too much about them for Faithfold on Sunday.
Ref – Martin De La Fuente
JC star man: Adam Lenz (Mill Hill)
DC Prediction: AC Mill Hill 3 Faithfold C 1
RR Prediction: AC Mill Hill 4 Faithfold C 2
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L’EQUIPE vs HENDON UNITED SPORTS CLUB C
L’Equipe and Hendon C have similar records going into what will be their first meeting of the season on Sunday.
David Prager’s men were 15 minutes away from defeat when their match, against Mill Hill, was abandoned last Sunday and they know they will to be on their guard against a Hendon team who go into the game on the back of a big win.
Ben Slukis was the hat-trick hero as Craig Miller’s men destroyed Tottenham Chutspah. That result just goes to show what the Reds are capable of when things click into gear.
But Miller predicts that things will be a lot closer on Sunday. Craig Phillips, our stalwart of a captain, will be playing through the pain of ankle injury he picked up last week, but we are missing Alex Elf which is a big blow.
“We have got Ariel Weinstein coming in to replace him and with Sluckis scoring his hat-trick last week he is buoyant of a repeat performance.
As a further blow, David Elf may not pass his 11th hour fitness test to play on Sunday, but his cousin Adam Jacobs will add any steel that we miss from the brothers.
“L’Equipe will be a tough, tough game - they are doing really well of recent to have held AC Mill Hill to 2-1 with 15 minutes left means they are competing with the big guns in the league even with a slow start to the campaign.
“Hendon United SC would like to send their best to Joe Levy and we wish him a speedy recovery.”
So with key men missing for the Hustlers, I’m tipping L’Equipe to keep their good run going.
Venue - Copthall, Ref – Nigel Burns
JC star man: Daniel Finegold (L'Equipe)
DC Prediction: L’Equipe 2 Hendon C 1
RR Prediction: L’Equipe 2 Hendon C 2
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LOUGHTON ORIENT vs OAKWOOD B
How do you recover from a 10-1 defeat. That is the question I posed to Loughton Orient boss Dan Curtis this week. I’ve yet to hear back.
Hopefully the hefty loss at the hands of FC Team C will be the low point of their season, although Oakwood B may have a thing or two to say about that.
The mighty Oaks moved joint-top thanks to Ben Polak’s goal in the hard fought win over Faithfold C.
Now manager Ian Tussie is targeting an 11th win of the season. Tussie told JC Sport: “We are up for it this Sunday and know it's another vital game that we must-win to keep up the pressure on Mill Hill and FC Team.
“I hate clichés but we take it one game at a time and know each game is a game of two halves.”
Oakwood have won six games on the road in the league this season and I think they’ll finish in seventh heaven on Sunday.
JC team news: Injuries to Mark Abrams and Dave Epstein haven't helped Oakwood, but Marc Conway and Dan Broman return.
JC star man: Dan Broman (Oakwood)
DC Prediction: Loughton Orient 0 Oakwood B 5
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NORSTAR C vs BOCA JEWNIORS
Norstar C have lost their last two games 7-2, but I expect them to get back on track on Sunday when they host the only team below them – Boca.
You cannot judge Zack Gothelf’s team on their last two performances and I expect them to rise to the occasion against the Boca boys.
Gothelf told JC Sport: “We're looking forward to get a game in on Sunday after a frustrating period of cancellations.
“On paper we should beat Boca, but as we've proven this year, if the favourite doesn't take their chances, the underdog can pounce.
“We've got a pretty strong squad going into Sunday, and with competition for places as tough as it's ever been, everyone knows they need to make the most of their opportunities on the pitch.
“After losing heavily last time out, we're looking to consolidate at the back and take the chances we create and make the most of the space at the Ark.”
Boca have conceded a 43 goals in 11 games, and it would’ve been a lot worse we it not for the heroics of keeper Ryan Monk.
But the stats don’t lie. Boca have only won once this season and only scored seven times.
Yes Norstar have conceded more from the same number of games played but I think they will hold all the aces on Sunday.
Venue – Ark Academy, Ref – Robert Caplin
JC star man: Dan Tannenbaum (Norstar)
DC Prediction: Norstar C 3 Boca Jewniors 1
RR Prediction: Norstar C 4 Boca Jewniors 3
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TEMPLE FORTUNE B P TOTTENHAM CHUTSPAH P
Match postponed
