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Bilbrook Juniors vs Silver Knights: 19/12/2020

A much-needed fixture after such a long break for the boys resulted in a switch of venues due to the winter rain. So, we headed to Oldbury to play on an all-weather surface. The Silvers turned out all smiles, looking fresh and ready to take on the Bilbrook crew who, at first sight, looked a strong, decent side.

The last game before the festive season got underway and from the off the Silvers looked in complete control with early control and passing from the centre and early attacks galore.

The shape of the Silvers was superb with everyone knowing their position on and off the ball. Archie’s and Theo’s determination to get the game under the Silvers’ control was fantastic, making Alfie’s job a pleasure to watch with space and time to cherry pick out Harley and Jasper who were outstanding on the wings. Will was buzzing up top with the ball getting into his path to rip the Bilbrook defence to shreds.

Don’t get me wrong: the Bilbrook boys had their fair share of attacks and at times played some decent football but, let’s be honest, who is going to get past our defence of Jack, Gabe andJosh, with Sam sitting in front? Not many, I can tell you!!!!! Our defence should be bottled up and sold – it’s that good. Jonty was on his toes today with confidence and awareness and was always in control in the nets. However, the first half elapsed with, unbelievably, no goals scored, albeit a great first half performance.

As the second half got under way, Mason stepped into the mix with good strength and simple passes to keep the Silvers in procession. Again, we had control at all angles and an early corner for the Silvers saw Harley takes bend the ball in close to the front post and, with a helping hand from the Bilbrook defender, the ball ended up stuck in the top of the goal for a rightly claimed goal by Harley who reckoned it was going in anyway! ( Ha-ha!)

The Bilbrook managers were far from silent night (more like Hark the Herald Angels Sing!), especially when corner number two approached and Jack made sure it hit the back of the net for a comfortable 2-0 lead.

The Silvers were playing top class football now - the movement on and off the ball was amazing! Reagan came on for his first blast after a long spell of problems with his twinkle toes and didn’t disappoint. Our defence was rock solid but as Josh went in to clear the ball with no fear, he pelted into the metal fence and came off second best with his knee split open and a quick dash to A & E (but we loved how his dad made him walk to the car! It’s only a scratch. Son! Hmmmmm… 9 stiches later!!!!!! The Gaffer nearly fainted (not sure if it was the sight of blood or his tackling machine being carted off!)

The pass of the game came from Archie out wide who launched a sublime long ball inch perfect into Will’s path and with our striker one on one with the Bilbrook keeper, he pulled a right Christmas cracker into the net for a Silvers 3-0 lead and a jingle bells win for the well-deserved Silvers.

After the match, the Silvers were rockin’ around the Christmas tree whilst the Bilbrook managers were giving their team the twelve days of Christmas!

Wishing you all a safe lockdown Christmas. Let’s hope in 2021 we can all get together and enjoy our Silvers get together again.

Up the Silvers!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Silver Knights vs Stratford Town: 31/10/2020

With Mrs Barlow being excused match report duties for the day, I of course forgot to ask anyone else to do it, so here’s the briefest of brief reports from a distance of 5 and a half weeks of our last game before Lockdown 2.

We didn’t play very well. We didn’t seem to have our usual fluency and every third pass seemed to be mislaid. That said, our defence looked reliable and Jonty was rarely troubled in goal. But it was pretty turgid going and it wasn’t obvious where a goal was going to come from. Then, out of the blue, a corner was whipped in to the danger area and first to leap after a scramble was Will to head us into a barely deserved lead. That didn’t seem to inspire us, however, and the rest of the first half reverted to type.

The half time team talk focussed on playing according to our style but we also struck a note of realism: we’d had plenty of games where the opposition had ground out a result against us and if we had to do that today, so be it! The aim was to secure the 3 points by doing whatever it took!

20 more Groundhog Day minutes passed before we suddenly sprang into life and, out of nowhere, notched three more goals in as many minutes! First the Stratford defender did a passing impression of LeBron James as he handled the ball out of Will’s path. The coaches commented that they’d never seen Jack miss a penalty but they have now (although Jack smashed the rebound, the keeper and three of their defenders into the roof of the net to make it 2-0!). Then. fresh from a proper rollicking off his Dad, Archie produced one of those “What do you know?” moments as he rose majestically to head a free kick home. The look he gave Rob was priceless! One minute later and another corner was met powerfully by Jack and there to pick up the pieces at the far post was Johnny-on-the-spot Jasper for his second goal in as many matches!

And then as quickly as it had arrived, the magic dust floated off again and the rest of the game petered out in somewhat drab fashion, no doubt leaving the Stratford coaches scratching their heads, wondering quite how they had lost 4-0!

The truth is that we are capable of playing much better than this but a commanding clean sheet for Jonty and 4 set piece goals shows what we can do when we turn our mind to getting the basics right! When we return after the lockdown, we want more of this resilience and determination. It would just be nice to ally it to some of our customary free-flowing football.

What is it Sharon says? Oh yes, Up The Silvers!!!

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Silver Knights vs AFC Gornal East: 17/10/2020

Today’s home fixture saw us take on AFC Gornal East.

After last week/s storm trooper against Wyrley, could we carry on where we left off? We had a full squad apart from Sam who was still nursing his knee injury.

 The game started and from the off the Gornal crew were showing the Silvers that they had come here to get a win -they certainly were the ones that came out the traps first. We struggled to get going and seemed a bit on the back burner but although the Gornal boys were taking control we managed not to concede a goal. We started to gather a bit of momentum and started to get the ball passing around our midfield, with Will and Chaz waiting for a break away but it was Alfie who spotted Jasper lingering wide on the wing and passed a beauty into his path as he strode forward past the Gornal defence to find himself one on one with the keeper before neatly finishing it into the back of the net. This must have been a shock to the Gornal side as this was the first goal that they had conceded all season!

 Josh Gabe and Jack had a lot of work to do this week as the Gornal boys were determined to attack at every given opportunity but it was our midfield of Archie, Theo and Alfie who had their work cut out to try and get the ball out wide to Ollie and Jasper who had their own battle on the wings.

A few quick changes were made and Harley and Mason came straight into battle but as the half time whistle blew, the Silvers had just got their nose in front.

 The second half could have gone either way as both the Silvers and the Gornal boys were trying to attack to change the score line but it was a Gornal long range shot that glided through and past the Silvers. straight into the back of the net. The Gornal boys’ celebration was like winning the World Cup but as the Ref blew for kick off all their team was still huddled around each other out of position and quick-thinking Jack took the kick off and launched the ball towards their goal where the keeper was nowhere to be seen!

But the Ref had a change of heart and made us take the kick off again. (Outraged to say the least).

 The battle was now on and a Gornal attack in the box saw Josh make a great tackle, winning the ball fair and square but the Ref blew for a penalty and Gornal become new leaders 2-1. Shortly afterwards, Will was hauled down when 2 yards from goal but the referee didn’t see that one…

 The game ended 2-1 and some may say we didn’t deserve to lose but we didn’t deserve to win either. A nice half term break now and we will pull our socks up, brush ourselves off and come back fresh as daisies for the next set of fixtures.

 Up The Silvers!!!!!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Wyrley Panthers vs Silver Knights: 10/10/2020

An away fixture this week against our local rivals Wyrley Panthers. A few Knights were wounded this week so a bit thin on the ground but we were still hoping to get back to winning ways.

The boys hadn’t let the last two weeks get under their skin and came to Wyrley to win, stepping into the game with confidence and moving the ball around well. We know that the Wyrley boys are a tough team to play against so an early goal would stand us in good stead but, unfortunately, we didn’t gamble on them opening the scoring with what can only be described as a freak goal that looked easily over the bar but slowed down in a gust of wind and dipped at the last minute over Jonty.

Discombobulated was our reply and we were all a bit sixes and sevens for a while until we started to settle into the game. Upfront this week were Will & Chaz who were testing the Wyrley defence to the max with plenty of action towards the box and before long a Theo corner searched out Archie’s head like a magnet, only to hit the bar! Never fear: poacher Chaz was in position to clip it neatly past the Wyrley keeper for a Silvers’ equaliser.

The work from Harley and Ollie on the wings was on point with some great defensive and attacking play which waskeeping the centre midfielders, Archie, Theo and Alfie ticking nicely to create moves up to our striking force. A great display from Jack, Gabe and Josh kept the Silvers calm and collected going into the second half.

Tom and Jasper made their mark early with lots of energy and a Jasper gallop down the wing spotted an unmarked Will who delightfully dinked one home for an early second half lead.Voices got louder from the Wyrley boys as the Silvers came into their own and started to take control. Another masterful display from our centre mid trio resulted in a cracking ball up to Will who tied the Wyrley defence into a Staffordshire Knot, creating himself the opportunity to shoot into an open goal but a Wyrley Marvel flew like a super hero across the nets and hand balled it out! A superman performance but understandably a red and a penalty given for his efforts. Jack hammered home for a 3-1 lead and the Silvers lookedcomfortable and in control.

The Wyrley boys had steam coming out of their ears and battled to get back into the game and a quick move forward gave them their second goal and it was game on again.However, we responded with a positive reaction and pressed high and with determination got the ball forward to Theo who glanced across to Chaz and Harley motoring forward. Chaz looked favourite to get the ball but Harley bellowed his name and shot at a right angle to get a Silvers’ 4-2 lead.

The Wyrley Panthers had run out of steam and the Silver Knights crossed the line well deserved winners.

Up the Silvers!!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Silver Knights vs Alvechurch Colts: 03/10/2020

Well in to Autumn and the change in the weather has arrived with a wet, blustery home game. We were looking forward to playing our first home game of the season, with a spectacular pitch awaiting.

Today’s match was going to be another test for the Silvers as we came face to face against Alvechurch: a very strong,cherry-picked side who again don’t lose many games.

The game began at a fast pace as expected but we had gambled on this happening so all the Silvers got straight to work to stop the heavy press from Alvechurch. The new formation played a big part in the game with a back four of Jack, Josh, Gabe and Mason a strong force to be reckoned with, holding out solidly to protect Jonty’s nets. The four across the middle comprised the Arch & Theo duet in centre and Chaz & Harley, switched on at either wing. Twinkle-toes Alfie was sitting in front and greyhound Will patrolled up top,waiting to sprint at the Alvechurch defence. However, throughout the first half we seemed to defend endlessly and, with some attractive football from Alvechurch, they got rewarded with 3 fancy goals.

The Silvers had to come out in the second half and try to remain positive and not give up on the game and that’s exactly what happened! We started to bring our game to them and before long, with a silky finish, Alfie got us on the score sheet.

The Silvers were then awarded a free kick 45 yards from goaland we packed ourselves tightly into the Alvechurch box but Jack had other ideas and with a monster of a kick catapulted a shooting star straight over the keeper into the back of the net!The uproar of joy bellowed from the Silvers’ supporters and the belief that we could go all the way and win this was lingering in the air.

Unfortunately, a crazy goal from Alvechurch took the score to 4-2 but with sheer determination to win the ball Harley gotsandwiched in the box and we were awarded a penalty - much to their manager’s disgust!! With Reagan only just back from injury, Jack stepped up and, with confidence, placed a beauty past the keeper. We were back in the mix!

The Alvechurch boys’ chins were dragging on the floor,especially when Sam was niggling away at them to force their errors and with a few heated moments we got back to playing football but a black cloud was following us and a penalty was awarded to the Alvechurch boys. We all stood in silence as a rainbow appeared over Jonty and he made the save of the century. This really upset Alvechurch and we went hell for leather to try and get the draw, but sadly the clock ticked down and the final whistle blew at 4-3.

I think the Gaffer summed it up in his text earlier in the week:the sheer determination and hard work was outstanding from the Silvers and this will make us a stronger and more difficult squad to play against.

Up the Silvers!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Aylestone Park vs Silver Knights: 26/08/2020

A chilly Saturday morning took us up the A5 to Leicester to play arguably one of the toughest teams in the league.

When the Aylestone boys turned out to the 3G pitch, it was clear to see why they don’t lose many matches: it was more like playing an under 21s team.

We started the first half after a slight delay as James was trying to butter up the ref for 10 minutes with his dulcet charm and from the first kick, we were attacked like a tidal wave!With an overload of Aylestone players, we were pursued at every given opportunity. The Silvers had certainly got their work cut out and were straight into defending to close down any attacks. Chaz and Harley had to block their lines to stop the wings being used which forced the play into the midfield where Archie, Theo and Alfie had to work as a team and cover the ground at a fast and furious pace.

We began to settle and test their defence but our striker Will was surrounded by a pack of dogs who made it near impossible to escape.

Jack, Gabe and Josh had their work cut out to protect our goal and keep Jonty safe in his nets, whilst Sam had to nip at theirankles and act as a general nuisance around the Aylestoneattackers. The Aylestone Keeper was so vocal and controlled his team from the off, it was like having the manager in goal giving out commands.

We were hanging in there with 25 minutes of sheer hard graft when an Aylestone corner gave them a 1-0 lead with a flying header. All we could do was dust ourselves off and go again.Jasper, Ollie and Mason came into the mix and had to work hard to keep the game under control. Our best chance was an Alfie corner and a Jack header that hit the crossbar and a long-range dig from Gabe to try and get one of his wonder goals.

The Aylestone boys kept up the pressure and scored another goal going into half time at 2-0. However, we didn’t give in as we’ve come back from games like this before and came out winners. The Silvers continued the uphill battle and kept the score at 2-0 but with another overload attack the Aylestone boys got their third goal and a 3-0 win. So much for James’buttering up tactics as we should have had at least one penalty but the ref was having none of it.

I think Harley hit the nail on the head on the way home as hesaid it was as if they had three extra players on the pitch and so many options to pass the ball but all we could do was defend for 80 minutes.

Onwards and upwards Silvers!!!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Shifnal Harriers vs Silver Knights: 19/09/2020

The Re-match!

Two weeks prior to today’s game we came and played a friendly against the Shifnal boys and it was certainly a clash of the Titans. We put up a good battle but, with tempers flaring and frustration in the camp, we came away with a loss.Today we came with a different approach and heads clear for the battle to commence.

The boys started the game with the high intensity that the Shifnal boys brought to us last time.  Archie had been given his orders from the off and didn’t disappoint with his strength and charisma as he battled in midfield to keep the number 11 closed in. Theo was his usual menace, niggling away at the Shifnal boys, giving them an absolute nightmare. The Silvers came with a game plan and were sticking to the drill. Sam was sitting in front of the defence and was tracking and heading every ball that came in his path, whilst the Super 3 in defence- Jack, Gabe and Josh - were as tight as Rob’s wallet: nothing was escaping that grip.

The wingers, Harley and Ollie, were building the wall and carrying strength in their actions by battling in the air and on the floor to get the ball up to the firing power of Will and Alfie. Jonty was taking control in goal and looked confident in his net. 20 minutes flew by and the Silvers were getting the ball through channels to Will who had his own battle with the big Shifnal defence but managed to get a few shots on target to test the keeper. Then a moment of pure magic when Theo and Alfie took a glide through the midfield and with some fantastic movement, Alfie twinkle-toed his way forward and struck high and landed the Silvers one into the back of the net with a fine finish. The Silvers happily went into half time with a well-deserved 1-0 lead.

In the second half we had to stick to the plan and maintain our heads in front. Charlie and Jasper got into the mix and stepped up to the challenge to battle with the Shifnal boys and werecontrolling the wings. Meanwhile the clash of the Titans was still going on in midfield with Archie and Theo on the front line giving the Shifnal boys an absolute headache.

Alfie and Will were still on the pounce and looking eager to get another goal. Jack, Josh and Gabe’s strength was outstanding and Sam battled like his life depended on it. The boys had stepped up to the mark but their number 11 managed to escape through a small gap and run his way through for an equaliser - much to his delight.

The best thing was that this enticed the Silvers to go in stronger and harder and bring the battle to its maximum intensity to get us a win. Will made a fantastic dash forward past their defence and, with intent, the Shifnal boy took Will’s legs clean away, allowing us a free kick outside the box. Alfie stepped up to take the free kick and reached Archie’s head like a catapult as he exploded the ball into the back of the net to put the Silvers ahead once more.

The Silvers’ game plan had worked a treat and the intensity of the game was outstanding – even if it wasn’t the prettiest game of football to watch - but don’t you just love it when a plan comes to fruition and the Silver Knights win the overall battle?

Up the Silvers !!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Going to the game with a hand wash and mask Swapping the Bovril for hot tea in a flask Co-vid volunteers with precision they zoom The clubhouse is spotless, elbow grease and broom Aye it feels different but we’re back at the match And its still flippin football and for that we give thanks Digital programmes and cashless ticket sale We all live in a socially distanced bubble this is how the fans will remain. The Silvers’ season has begun and all together we will make it fun. Track and Trace at every game so we can all enjoy football again. Good luck to our boys for 2020: a year we will remember when face masks became trendy. Welcome back Silvers: it’s been a tough year for everyone but we are back and ready to impress and with a fantastic pre-season friendly display we have put ourselves in a good position for the season ahead. So today’s game was away against Redditch United on a superb 3G pitch. The September sun was with us as we kicked off at the later time of 12:30. 30 seconds in and the Silvers were looking sharp: a fantastic run from Archie through the Redditch defence took the ball to the bye line and he cut it back for the perfectly positioned Will to bury home for an early 1-0 lead. The football being played was just where we had left off pre-season - confident in every position. Gabe, Jack and Josh bossed the backline, leaving no cracks opened to make Jonty’s job nice and easy. Theo and Alfie were running rings around the midfield with Alfie’s quick fancy feet making easy work to pass the ball into space where Archie connected to whack the ball 100 mile and hour straight across the floor into the back of the Redditch net: 2-0. The Silvers were in the driving seat and looking comfortable to attack and create from all angles. Harley was next to make a move up the wing and as he spotted Will on a run, he fired a great long cross onto Will’s head which flashed just over the crossbar. Sam was on heading duty and never failed to connect with composure and precision, making sure the ball reached an awaiting Silver every time. Another magical moment followed as the Silvers drifted through the midfield like a knife through butter and Alfie tip-toed his way into the box to be brought to the ground by the Redditch defence. With Reagan not available, Jack stepped up and banged it straight in for a Silvers 3-0 lead. The boys had really settled into the game and made the gaffer and back room staff redundant. Chaz and Jasper were battling well on the wing, creating passes and finding Alfie’s feet who was taken down again for a Silvers’ free kick. Rightly so, Alfie found top bins with a lovely free kick to put the Silvers into a 4-0 lead at half time. I can only imagine that the Redditch coaches were stunned at our performance as the Gaffer’s grin was beaming from ear to ear. The second half was just as good but an unfortunate tackle in the box caused the Redditch forward to go down for a penalty. Jonty looked super cool in goal and only just missed it with his foot and was unlucky not to save it, so the Redditch boys had pulled a goal back, which in hindsight lifted the Silvers’ game. Ollie and Tom were menacing with their tackles and work rate and looked comfortable in possession. Theo was like a spirograph all over the page, putting himself into every mix. The game was flowing into the Silvers’ lap and a long goal kick saw Archie rise high and back header the ball and with Will’s pace he soon pounced on the ball with a cracking composed finish to make the score 5-1. Jasper was making some great runs and creating chances for the boys and with another Silvers’ attack Will found Harley in space who struck the ball low and skimming across the 3G into the bottom corner: 6-1. Redditch were looking deflated and Jack, Gabe and Josh were letting nothing through with a fine display, getting the ball back to the midfield and with all the effort of Theo’s runs he got his just desserts with a well struck goal and a fantastic 7-1 win for the Silver Knights. Wow! What a performance for the Silvers: a comfortable and conf

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Silver Knights vs AFC Hilton: 14/03/2020

Proudly sponsored by Pocket Rocket Marketing; The Laurels Motor Company; BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. This week we had a home fixture against AFC Hilton who always play a good game so we needed to start out of the blocks quickly to get the game going to our advantage. The Silvers had a shortage of knights this week with Reagan, Gabe, Ollie and Jasper all out, so our reliable super sub Reece stepped in. James declined the opportunity of running the line this week as the festivities at Cheltenham the previous day had taken their toll; he was happy just to spectate. The game kicked off at 11am and both teams got off to a good start but the Silvers seemed to be a bit more in control and were working well to keep the ball moving. Jack was joined by Mason and Josh in the back line and they all worked well together to keep the Hilton boys quiet. Both Silvers and Hilton were testing each other’s strengths and weaknesses and it was clear to see that the Hilton keeper was a bit light fingered when catching the ball, so the Silvers kept this in the memory bank. Archie, Theo and Alfie were strong in centre midfield, with some fantastic challenges which the Hilton boys didn’t like so from the off the referee got himself involved and let the boys know who was in charge of this game. Harley and Archie were working well together, not letting the Hilton boys get by, as they proved by doing a Harley-Archie sandwich on the Hilton winger and bringing him to the ground. Sam was in control, heading everything back up the field and Charlie was working hard to get the ball through to Will who had already tested their defence and the keeper. The score line remained 0-0 and both teams were creating chances but the Hilton lead came first with a superb goal that Jonty had no chance of getting to. This gave the Hilton boys a huge lift but the Silvers weren’t giving in that easily and with a free kick given to us at some distance, Jack stepped up to fire the ball straight at the keeper who dropped it into the back of the net for the equaliser. With the Silvers back in the game, the ref had a few more words with a few hot-headed players… he was doing well to control 22 teenage boys and was taking no lip from them! Unfortunately, just before half time an unlucky own goal that couldn’t be avoided put the Hilton boys 2-1 up going into the second half. The Silvers came out strong and were gunning to get back into the game, with some great attacks allowing Will to find his feet with some lightning attacks. Alfie, Theo and Archie were pinging balls forward left, right and centre and Will set off on a great dash through the Hilton defence to set a chance up for Alfie who slotted home for a 2-2 equaliser. Reece, Josh and Mason were making some important tackles and containing the Hilton boys’ shots at Jonty and Sam was on guard to sweep up loose balls to maintain possession. Harley and Charlie kept their blocks on the line, not letting the ball through their path and making it hard work for the Hilton boys to attack. The Hilton boys were beginning to get frustrated, albeit they were playing some great football but the frustration mounted and they gave away a penalty. As our normal penalty taker Reagan wasn’t on the pitch, Jack stepped up to take it and made sure it hit the back of the net: 3-2. A poor clearance then fell to Charlie who immediately set up Will for a calm finish and a 4-2 lead. The Silvers had put the game to bed but there was still time for one last break away by Will who picked out Chaz who struck his goal past the keeper as sweet as a nut, taking the Silvers’ lead to 5-2. A great win for the Silvers: a superb 5-2 victory, coming from behind from 2-1 showed great team determination to win. Well done silvers!!!

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Abbey Hulton Utd vs Silver Knights: 07/03/2020

Proudly sponsored by Pocket Rocket Marketing, The Laurels Motor Company, BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. No storms to report this week so this week’s game up Stoke was ON. A lot smaller pitch than the one we had played on last week meant that this would be a good test for the Silver Knights. However, what had started off as a full squad was bamboozled when Ollie “The Acrobat” Thomas showed off his gymnastic / footballing skills by planting himself on the floor in the warm up, resulting in a quick trip to Stoke University Hospital! The game got underway and within a blink of an eye, crash, bang, wallop: the ball was in the back of our net and the Abbey boys had a one nil lead after just 20 seconds. Mouths opened wide and a question formed in our minds: “How did that happen?” Deep breaths and start again but then the exact same thing happened again! An Abbey long ball sailed over the top and within two minutes the Silvers was trailing 2-0. The Silvers were shell shocked and needed to notch up the pace as it was clear to see that the smaller pitch was playing right into the Abbey boys’ hands. The Silvers needed to stop them playing the long ball as this seemed to be their plan. Archie, Theo and Alfie had to be on guard to stop this happening by moving the ball quickly to find Harley and Jasper out wide to counter attack forwards to get Will into his comfort zone up front. Jack, Gabe and Reagan had to be as sharp as a knife to cut off any gaps that the Abbey boys could get through, whilst protecting Jonty from any further Abbey bombardments. The Silvers pulled together and got a goal back as Will made sure the ball hit the back of the net. At 2-1 we could pull this game around and try and impose the Silvers’ style of play. The first half game settled and with Josh and Sam putting in some great tackles and Charlie and Mason working hard to get the ball forwards for Silvers’ attacks, it seemed it wouldn’t be long before we got the equaliser we needed but unfortunately the first half ended 2-1. The smaller pitch continued to make life difficult for us in the second half and we were getting more and more frustrated as we couldn’t settle into our game. Some questionable offside descions were given seemingly every time Will and Harley were on the attack and this just poured further fuel into the Silver Knights’ fire. Testosterone and tempers were flaring as the ref’s actions of not given us anything became the focal point of the game and with this firmly planted in the Silvers’ minds’, the Abbey boys took advantage and went on to score a further two goals ending the game 4-1. What a difference a week makes, but at least Ollie “The Acrobat” Thomas made it back in time for the sausage and chip butties! Heads up, Silvers: we go again next week with lots of positivity and, we hope, back to the Silver Knights team we know and love. Up the Silvers!!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Silver Knights vs Edgbaston Eagles: 29/02/2019

Proudly sponsored by Pocket Rocket Marketing, The Laurels Motor Company, BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. Storm Jorge resulted in all home fixtures being cancelled but thankfully the Edgbaston manager offered the Gaffer the reverse fixture, so off to Bearwood we went. On arrival it was clear to see how they could reverse the fixture as their set up was fantastic, with underground drainage and a beautiful surface to play on. The boys were all eager to play as the last few weeks have been a washout with all the storms stopping play and this certainly showed in their play from when the first half whistle blew. The Silvers settled straight in and commanded straight away with the back line of Jack, Reagan and Gabe not leaving anything to chance by getting the ball back into our centre midfielders. Some early chances put pressure on the Eagles and their mistakes began to appear allowing magician Theo to send an early cross along the face of the goal for Will to slide with his leg stretched afar to meet the ball for a 10-minute lead. The Silvers’ confidence was high and kept the pressure and pressing to a tee. Josh and Charlie were in the mix on the wings and although the majority of the play was been played over on one side, they kept their positions, waiting for the breaks to come. Archie and Sam were on their toes, up for headers and nicking balls to win back possession, allowing Alfie to create space to attack. And that’s exactly what he did from 35 yards as he spotted the keeper off his line and launched the ball right into the centre of the net for a 2-0 lead. Two minutes later came goal number 3 with Will putting his pace to use and slotting home his second goal of the match. The Eagles looked shaken but responded well with some attacks of their own but Jonty was making some important saves and Jack, Reagan and Gabe were making important defensive decisions to keep us a clean sheet. Another Eagles attack into the box was cleared to Harley who set off on a dash with Archie and Will in tow with some great link play resulting into a cross into the box for another chance at goal. Sam and Mason were keeping the pressure on which resulted in goal number 4 as the ball was moved into the path of Jasper who dropped his shoulder to beat the Eagles defender and cross the ball across the goal line to find Harley rushing in to tap it home. A 4-0 first half performance set us up nicely for the second half and Ollie Thomas came out like a raging bull! He got his paws into everything, putting the Eagle boys firmly in their place. The Silvers’ second half drought of goals soon come to an end when Theo got fouled in the box and a penalty was awarded. Our penalty king Reagan stepped up looking to add another goal to his list and he didn’t disappoint with another superb goal. The Silvers were in the driving seat again and looked comfortable in all positions. Chaz was looking for that sixth goal as he worked his way forward to put the game to bed but to no avail. We were into the final few seconds when a free kick given to the Eagles in a perfect position for a shot and they notched their only goal of the match as the whistle blew for an impressive 5-1 win. A great Win for the Silvers today with every Knight working hard and coming out on top, with 5 great goals putting the team spirit on a high going forward into next week’s match. Up the Silvers!!!!!!!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Oadby Owls vs Silver Knights: 08/02/2020

Proudly sponsored by Pocket Rocket Marketing; The Laurels Motor Company; BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. An away day today took us all the way to Leicester to play against Oadby Owls. With storm Ciara looming and threatening to disrupt everything, it was a wrap up warm kind of day and fingers crossed the match was played before the storm hit. The boys were eager to get started and kick off was on time. After playing the Oadby boys a few times before, it wasn’t going to be a walk in the park so we had to work hard to try and get the right result. The Silvers started off well and put pressure on the Oadby boys from the off. Archie and Alfie were making their presence felt in centre midfield with some great battles and attacks forward to get the ball up to Will. The pitch wasn’t the best: it was a bit like treading water with heavy muddy boots playing havoc underfoot. Jasper and Harley were both working well on the wide line, getting balls across into the box at every given opportunity. We were certainly having most of the play with shots coming thick and fast from Will, Alfie, Harley, Reagan and Archie but the Oadby keeper was keeping a clean sheet. Mason and Sam were working well together and finding fantastic passes back and forth to ensure that the Silvers kept possession. There was a real buzz in our midfield and it was a joy to watch and our strong back force of Jack, Josh and Reagan was, as ever, on form. The boys had really read the Oadby centre forward and stopped him in his tracks at every given opportunity. Jonty was commanding well in goal and clearing the ball back upfield so the Silvers could carry on the rampage of attacks. Will had a hard job up top and was mainly surrounded by the Oadby defence but he still fought hard to get through the cracks. A goal was needed by the Silvers and I believe if we had got one in the first half, we would have got a hatful, as the football at times was outstanding, but true to form one slip and an attack at goal saw the Oadby boys go 1-0 ahead. As the second half began, the sky was still blue and with no sign of Ciara yet, the Silvers settled in to the half and Ollie and Gabe came into the mix and worked hard to get us back into winning ways. Some great football from Archie took him on a forward surge and he shifted the ball on to his left foot and struck hard at goal. He wheeled away in delight as the ball smashed into the back of the net for a 1-1 equaliser. This gave the Silvers a real lift and they continued to progress forward but the pitch was getting heavier as the mud was churning up, with players slipping over and the ball bobbling about. However, Josh came into his own with a great little battle all by himself and then he popped up to shoot at goal for a lovely finish and a 2-1 lead. Unfortunately, Alfie had to depart the field of play injured after being sandwiched by three Oadby boys and a few tempers started to flare but the referee managed to get the game back under control. The Oadby boys came at us fast in surges but Jack made a superb tackle inside the box and then continued to clear one off the line with his head. We were a bit taken back by the pressure put on us and in no time at all we were back to 2-2. The Silvers reacted well and we had some great chances to score but the Oadby keeper was playing too well to let any more goals in. A last attempt at goal saw Will taken down late in the box but the ref was having none of it as everyone screamed for a penalty. The game ended in a 2-2 draw and we weren’t really sure how to react but like Rob said at least we didn’t lose! A win would have been nice and I think the Oadby boys got away lightly. Up the Silvers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Silver Knights vs Solihull Moors DS: 01/02/2020

Sponsored by Pocket Rocket Marketing; The Laurels Motor Company; BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. We awoke to beautiful sunshine and blue skies but by the time we had got to our home fixture it was like we’d stepped into a Tardis and stepped out the other side into the Antarctic. The wind was fierce, it was bitterly cold and the poor parents were freezing. Brrrrrrrrrrrr! Anyway, on to the boys who were having a warm up in their smart Bella Italia windproof jackets, looking fresh and ready to try and secure a home win. As the first half got underway, it was plain to see that the wind was going to play a big part in this fixture: the lads’ football shirts were billowing out like parachutes! As the Silvers faced the wind head on it was going to be tough for the defence of Gabe, Jack and Harley to judge the speed at which the ball would be coming at them, but with Sam and Josh sitting in front, they all had it covered. Will and Archie were our starting wing men, with some fantastic attacks being made by them both. Archie was making some superb sprints up to the bye line to get the ball into the 6-yard box for Charlie to have some early pops at goal. The Moors boys had their fair share of attacks downwind but Alfie and Theo were solid in the centre to minimise balls getting loose to our defence. Jonty at this point wasn’t being threatened but had to be on his toes as the wind was playing havoc with the ball. A few subs were made and Ollie took up position on the wing with Reagan stepping into defence and Mason slotted into holding midfield. Archie had another dash up the wing and crossed the ball right in front of goal where Ollie was waiting with the biggest grin on his face as he could see the opportunity to blast it home for a Silvers’ goal but, would you believe, it the ball bobbled underneath his studs and was smashed away by the keeper! As Ollie turned round you could lipread some expletives coming from under his breath “@*$^!%@*”. As the last few minutes of the first half arrived, all the football was being played by the mighty Silvers and finally, with a phenomenal training ground manoeuvre from Alfie to Theo, our midfielder’s snapshot was parried straight into Will’s path for our striker to bury it home for a delightful Silvers 1-0 first half lead. The wind was still howling at the start of the second half but we now had the downhill play. Jasper started with some great moves and was battling hard to stay in control. I think it’s fair to say that the Silvers had the percentage of the game in their pocket but it was hard to increase the score with the wind spoiling the play. We had some great attempts at goal: Alfie, Archie and Will all getting into the mix before Harley struck the cross bar with a vicious long range left foot volley. Frustrating as it was, both teams battled against the wind. Sam, Josh and Mason kept the Moors boys at bay and Reagan Jack and Gabe were calm and on point at the back, making Jonty's job easy. The coaches were getting nervous with score still at 1-0 with only minutes to go but a cleared ball carried on the wind over the centre midfielders’ heads and neatly into Will’s path. As he was galloping downhill, the Moors’ keeper hesitated and Will took the opportunity to lob him and put the Silvers 2-0 in front. So, the game ended with a Silvers’ home win and a happy bunch of wind-swept lads. It wasn’t the prettiest game to watch, but a win’s a win! The Gaffer celebrated with a well-earned Guinness after doing dry January and a smile on his face that said it all. Up the Silvers!!!!!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Belvedere Park vs Silver Knights: 25/01/2020

Proudly sponsored by Pocket Rocket Marketing; The Laurels Motor Company; BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. An away day up the A38 to Burton on Trent with our new formation in mind. The boys looked fresh as they stepped out to warm up and looked ready to take on the Belvedere squad. The Ref had words with the linesmen and insisted that he was old school and did it the old way, hence the linesmen were back to front: running the line next to our right back rather than left back, a bit like used to happen in the 1970s! It was such a breath of fresh air to see the boys in a new formation and testing different positions. We half expected Jack to be in goal and Jonty to step into centre back but they were rightly left in their normal roles: ha-ha! So, today’s formation starting team was: back three Harley, Jack and Gabe; Sam and Mason in the holding positions with a midfield consisting of Ollie, Archie, Alfie and Will. Today’s striker was Chaz, with Jonty in goals. The Silvers settled straight into the game and moved the ball quickly up top to Chaz who started to test the Belvedere defence. Archie came into his own and had an early shot at goal to test the keeper as did Will. Harley, Jack and Gabe were in control at the back, playing with confidence and keeping the line tight whilst Sam and Mason were solid in their holding positions. A long throw-in from Archie reached Chaz who rose to flick it over his head to land straight into Will’s path for him to strike home for a deserved 1-0 lead to the Silvers. The Silvers looked like they were enjoying this system and didn’t disappoint the Gaffer with some excellent football from everyone and the confidence showed in bundles. A few subs were made and Theo got right into the midfield battle, working hard and chasing the ball down as did Jasper on the right wing, working the line and finding space. Josh took up a holding position and was tackling anything that stepped across his path. The Silvers first half performance had been superb and going into second half in the lead was the boost we needed. However, the Belvedere boys came out all guns blazing and took early control of the game putting pressure on us straight away. We were all absolutely gobsmacked when Jack passed the ball back to Jonty off his knee and the old school ref blew for a pass back! Thankfully they didn’t score from the resultant free kick, or I’m not sure what would have kicked off on the sidelines!! To be honest, we lost our way a bit in the second half and were tending to invite them into our own half as we were playing too deep and unfortunately this resulted in a Belvedere equaliser. However, we continued to try to get back to our formation and as we pushed forward Theo made a dash towards the area and was taken clean out just inside the box but the ref only gave us a free kick just outside the area! Yet again, we were flabbergasted at another terrible decision! At this point in the game we had to make more attacks and move the ball to our advantage which we had a good few chances to do but couldn’t hold on to the draw as the Belvedere boys tipped their noses in front with a late goal. The final score was a frustrating 2-1 loss (again!) but more frustrating for the boys, the coaches and the spectators is the curse of the referees we continue to get week in week out. A great first half performance with a lot of positives moving forward to next week’s game. Up the Silvers!!!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Silver Knights vs White Knights: 18/01/2020

Sponsored by Pocket Rocket Marketing; The Laurels Motor Company; BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. DERBY DAY!!!!!!!!! After a week of downpours and the pitch sodden on Friday night, it was a shock as the What’sapp pinged out: GAME ON. The overnight clear skies and slight frost had done their job to ensure the battle of the Lichfield Round Table as the two teams went head to head. You could feel the nerves as the boys kicked off but a long, precise ball from Jack to found Will straight away on the attack. Will spotted Chaz and provided him with an early gift as he sliced it past the keeper for a 20 second lead of 1-0. The Whites were absolutely stunned as the Silvers’ nerves settled and progressed with some superb moments of football. Jack was joined by Gabe and Josh at the back this week as Reagan is still carrying a groin injury and the back three was certainly in control and Jonty was making some great saves and was confident with his voice. The Silvers were definitely playing the better football with some great tackles and attacks from Alfie, Archie and Theo, whilst Mason was rock solid, sitting just behind the midfield. However, the referee’s whistle was being overworked as he seemed to blow for everything and anything which in turn wasn’t allowing the boys to get into the flow of the game. We had some great chances from a handful of free kicks but the Whites’ stand-in keeper was keeping them in the game. Jasper and Chaz were keeping the wings moving to attack and get Will into play with some great speed, attacking the Whites’ defence. As the ref’s whistle was blowing more and more, the Whites get a free kick from nothing but with both Silvers and Whites competing for the ball, elbows and arms were waving around everywhere and a penalty was given for a push!!!! But who pushed who, when and where we don’t know: only the ref saw it. The Whites equalised at 1-1 from the penalty and the first half whistle blew. Second half and both teams were ready for the win, ready to compete and ready to put the game to bed: end to end football with Ollie Thomas showing them not to mess with the small guy, tackling everything in sight. Harley and Sam were making great passes through to the engines, Archie and Theo, who in turn were getting Alfie and Will on the attack. As the whistle happy ref continued his quest to wear out his pea, he blew for yet another free kick and with a tussle in the box a Whites player launched himself into Jonty and pushed him and the ball over the line. With Jonty lying injured, the ref gave the goal to the Whites. 2-1 but still time to get it back, the Silvers were working hard to get back into the game but, yes you guessed it, the whistle blew again for an innocuous free kick and out of nowhere, the Whites striker managed to find the back of our net. So, Derby day finished with the Whites a nose in front. The Silvers played the football and the ref’s gone to buy a new whistle…preferably one that’s silent. Up the Silvers!!!!!

[lrtsilverknights]

Hednesford Town Youth Development vs Silver Knights: 11/01/20

Sponsored by Pocket Rocket Marketing, The Laurels Motor Company, BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. A local away game today up to our neighbours in Hednesford with a full-strength squad of 15. The wind was blowing a gale over the 4G astro, so the lads needed to take that into consideration. The game got underway with a later kick off and the Silvers got straight to work putting balls forward to our striker Will with an early shot being saved. Theo, Archie and Alfie were kept on their toes in the middle with a majority of passes being deployed through centre midfield. Harley and Chaz, the wing men, were looking to make runs forward to create chances for striker Will. The Town boys looked strong and in turn had a handful of surges forward to attack our defence of Sam, Jack, Reagan and Josh. Jonty wasn’t really threatened at this stage but was on guard just in case. The wind was playing its part of whipping the ball out of play for what seemed about 100 throw ins and goal kicks. Some superb balls were coming from the back line through to Alfie, Archie and Theo who fed the ball up to Will but still there were no goals from either the Silvers or Town boys. Out of nowhere, we were awarded a free kick: could our rocket foot Reagan bag us a first half goal? A perfect strike was heading into top bins but the wind just whipped underneath it to take it just over the cross bar. The game continued but not without injuries as Archie had to hobble off struggling with his calves and Chaz suffered a clash of knees and had to come off with an ice pack. Ollie, Gabe and Jasper made their mark on the game, slotting straight into play. A lovely ball from Jasper put Will on the run only for another save by the Town keeper. The last chance of the first half saw a lovely ball from Alfie find Harley in space who took it to the bye line and delivered a great strike into the box to two waiting Silvers but they just couldn’t get their heads on it. Going into the second half at evens gave the Town boys a bit of a lift after previous results had gone against them, but with an early Town mix up of keeper verses his own defender, the Silvers were gifted an open goal for Will to net us a 1-0 lead. The game was still a battle from both sides and from a Town corner and header came their equaliser. The Town boys were absolutely ecstatic at the equaliser and came at us with renewed force. Another injury blow for the Silvers as Reagan suffered a groin injury and hobbled off in pain. The game continued and despite the urgency to get another goal, it wasn’t to be as the Town boys managed to hit the winning goal and as their confidence was sky high and ours had hit rock bottom. Final score was 1-2 as our neighbours came out on top.

[lrtsilverknights]

Sutton Coldfield Town Juniors vs Silver Knights: 04/01/20

Sponsored by: Pocket Rocket Marketing; The Laurels Motor Company; BWT (Best Water Treatment) and Bella Italia. Wishing you all a very happy and healthy New Year. Welcome back to you all in this new year of 2020 and time to get back to the football season. Today we looked forward to a cup match against our local rivals Sutton Town, so a quick run up the A38 delivered us to their home ground in Erdington. Everyone wrapped up warm and was looking forward to a game that could possibly go either way. The first half got under way and it was an even start with both teams looking to snatch an early lead. With Gabe on his last match ban, Harley stood alongside Jack and Reagan in the back line to defend our goal, whilst Alfie, Archie and Theo controlled the centre and Chaz and Ollie worked hard on the wings. Josh was sitting pretty in front of the back three and Will was waiting to pounce up front. Jonty was keeping a close eye on the Sutton attacks as they were coming thick and fast as, indeed, were the Silvers’ attacks. A great early left foot strike from Archie sailed just wide of goal but showed the Sutton keeper that he would have to be on his guard. Many a chance was created by both teams but it was Sutton who just nipped in front after 17 minutes to make the Silvers work hard to try and equalise. Some lovely football was on display and some great team effort ensued to try and get Will in front of goal but we went into half time trailing 0-1. With everything to play for the Silvers came out at the start of the second half on the attack and dominated the game with battles being won left right and centre. Sam stepped back into his holding position after his little break but it was like he’d never been away. Jasper and Ollie were winning their own battles out wide as were Archie, Theo and Alfie. However, out of nowhere a seemingly straightforward pass bit us on the backside and Sutton got their 2nd goal and a 2-o lead. With about ten minutes to go, a nice free kick was awarded to us after Theo was manhandled to the floor and with the long-range distance there was only one man for the job! Reagan stood tall and walloped us a beauty into the back of the net! Well done, Reagan – we were back in the game at 1-2. The game was now definitely going our way and the Silvers kept up the pressure with some great attacks at goal. We were battling hard with Chaz and Harley tackling strongly and feeding balls up front. At this stage we were all over Sutton with chances coming like London buses and with minutes to go we scored our 2nd goal from Will who was then questionably given offside by the Sutton Town linesman. The boys were furious as they all thought the goal should stand. This wouldn’t be the first game where we had been robbed in the final minutes, but what can you do?! The game ended 2-1 which was disappointing for the Silvers but it was good to have a game before our league games continue. Next week we will be turkey and Christmas pudding free and, more importantly, back to full strength. Up The Silvers !!!!!!!!!