Under 12
The Glenavon Under 12 team was just formed this year and plays in the National League. It is coached by Tom Mathers and James Stinson.
League Table
Leading Scorers 2009/10
Nathan Weir 10, Eamonn Lavery 10, Joel Copes 9, Chris Burns 7, Curtis Stewart 4, Josh Mathers 3, Ziggy Gargasas 1, Luke Diamond 1, Stephen Wilson 1, Ryan McCrory 1
Total Goals 48
Results 2009/10
Saturday 24 April: Glenavon 3-2 Sion Swifts
Saturday 17 April: Glenavon 1-1 Bertie Peacock Youth
Saturday 10 April: Glenavon 0-2 Bertie Peacock Youth (National League Plate)
Saturday 20th March: Carniny 3-0 Glenavon
Saturday 27th March: Ballymoney 0-2 Glenavon
Saturday 13th March 2010: Glenavon 3-2 Ards
Saturday 27th February: Cairniny Youth 2-1 Glenavon (NL Cup)
Saturday 13th February: Maiden City 4-3 Glenavon
Saturday 6th February: Glenavon 5-2 Limavady
Saturday 23rd January: Glenavon 5-2 Carniny
Saturday 19th December: Bertie Peacock Youth 1 -2 Glenavon
Saturday 12th December: Glenavon 0-3 St Oliver Plunkett YC
Saturday 5th December: Oxford Stars 3-0 Glenavon
Saturday 28th November Glenavon 5-2 Culmore (1st Round NIBFA Cup)
Saturday 31st October: Limavady 4-1 Glenavon
Saturday 24th October: Glenavon 4-2 Maiden City
Saturday 17th October: Sion Swifts 4-1 Glenavon
Saturday 10th October: Glenavon 3-1 Ballymoney
Saturday 3rd October: Ards 0-6 Glenavon
Saturday 26th Sept: Glenavon 0-2 Balllinamallard
Saturday 19 Sept: Cliftonville 5-1 Glenavon (at Mallusk)
Saturday 12 Sept: Greenisland 6-0 Glenavon.
Tuesday 8th Sept: Glenavon 1-5 Linfield
Saturday 5th Sept: Glenavon 1-5 Larne
Wednesday 3rd Sept: Dungannon 2-0 Glenavon
Match Reports
Saturday 24 April: Glenavon 3-2 Sion Swifts
Joel Copes, Eamonn Lavery, Curtis Stewart
Glenavon went into this game in the knowledge that a win would virtually secure their place in the Premier section of the National League if the proposed split went ahead. This was going to be a difficult game against a good Sion Swifts team who had comfortably beaten Glenavon earlier in the season and who were above Glenavon in the league. It turned out to be a great competitive game of football soured only by the behaviour of both the Sion Swifts coaching staff and their supporters who disgracefully rounded on the referee at the final whistle and subjected him to an onslaught of verbal abuse in front of the young boys from both teams. Their behaviour was totally unacceptable and no referee should ever be subjected to such abuse. I personally tried to reason with the agitators and defuse the situation but was accused, at one time, of paying the referee. Can I go on record and say that I believe the referee had a fine game yet I did not agree with all his decisions. I realise that it is impossible for referees to get every decision right which is highlighted at even the highest level but behaviour such as that on show here today will only drive referees from the game.
Glenavon started on the front foot and put on a display of fine attacking football. The boys were dominating every area of the pitch and deservedly took the lead when Nathan was blatantly pushed to the ground by the SS goalie. Joel stepped up and calmly struck the ball into the bottom corner. SS were rattled and their line became more vociferous challenging every decision made by the ref. Glenavon were dominating at this point and the second came early in the second half when Eamonn scored with a good strike inside the box. At this point SS were shell shocked and Glenavon were on top with Curtis and Joel dominating the midfield and Brendan superb as sweeper. Scott and Aaron defended resolutely yet got forward at every opportunity. Both these boys have improved dramatically over the course of the season and at present are on top of their game.
Then a poor decision by the ref allowed SS back into the game. Two players standing at least three yards off side when the ball was played through and the result was inevitable. SS had been given a lifeline and it was game back on. SS upped their game and this match was more competitive. Having said that Glenavon were still the best team and had more of the ball. The SS line were badgering the ref at every opportunity and it appeared to me that they were trying to influence his decisions. Glenavon then got a free kick outside the box and Joel stepped up only to rattle the post, the ball bounced down across the line away from goal. As the ball came out it was met at the angle from the far post by Josh and volleyed back to goal only to smack the cross bar and bounce back out of play. Unbelievable bad luck. Then SS got an equaliser and it looked like it was going to be a case of deja vu for the boys with their bad luck in front of goal costing us dear. This match was a roller coaster of emotions. Glenavon pressed and pressed and then a great ball found Eamonn in the box. SS were all over the place and Eamonn cut inside the full back and moved to goal from the right hand side of the box, Josh and Nathan were both standing unmarked in front of an open goal but Eamonn decided to shoot and his weak effort was well held. What an opportunity and this decision making is something which will be addressed in pre season. Five minutes left on the clock and as the match looked to be heading to a stalemate up stepped Curtis to strike home well from a difficult bouncing ball. What a strike. What a result for the boys. They deserved that result.
This being the final league match of the season it’s an opportune time for me to thank all the boys for their effort and commitment throughout the season. It has been a steep learning curve but invaluable and I think all would agree it’s great to be playing in such a well organised competitive league of such a good standard. Next season will see Glenavon drive forward and hopefully the boys will continue to learn and improve as I believe they have done this season. New training facilities are again evidence of Glenavon’s continued drive to improve their academy and our director Alex Denver strives to bring excellence to the academy. Can I wish you all a great summer and hopefully will see you ALL back for pre season.
Thanks to all
Tom.
Saturday 17 April 2010: Glenavon 1-1 Bertie Peacock Youth
Joel Copes
BP again were the visitors in this league match and it proved an entertaining yet slightly disappointing result.
Glenavon again started well with plenty of possession, some nice football but lacking that cutting edge. I know you’ve heard it all before but as I’m sure most of our regular supporters would agree if the boys had been more prolific in front of goal Glenavon would have been playing in the top half following the break. However their commitment and effort cannot be questioned. BP got a rare corner half way through the first half and the Glenavon boys switched off. BP took a quick short corner with their player advancing unchallenged to strike the ball into the roof of the net. It was a great strike but I counted four Glenavon players with their back to the ball as the BP attacker struck the ball. I could understand if this area of defending had never been covered but the need to keep switched on at corners and free kicks has been covered on numerous occasions.
Glenavon continued to play with purpose with both Curtis and Brendan on top of their game. Defensively Glenavon were comfortable with Scott and Aaron also excellent throughout. Joel continued to give his all and ably supported Curtis in the middle of the park. Special mention also to Luke who was great at centre half alongside Brendan.
Glenavon earned a deserved equaliser when Eamonn was chopped down in the box when clean through. Joel smashed home the resulting penalty with his usual consistency. In the final minutes Curtis was brought down outside the box and again Joel stepped up but his effort was well held.
Saturday 10 April 2010: Glenavon 0-2 Bertie Peacock Youth, National League Plate
Again the scoreline suggests Glenavon were comfortably beaten but that was far from the story. Glenavon dominated possession for the first 20 minutes of this match but never really troubled the opposing keeper. Glenavon were comfortable in possession and played some good passing football but lacked a cutting edge in the final third. The first time BP threatened the Glenavon goal they punished Glenavon for their inability to find the net. BP attacked down the left wing and their striker cut in towards goal around the edge of the 18 yard line, Glenavon had two opportunities to clear the ball but failed to do so the BP striker shot from the edge of the box and his effort, which lacked any real power, bobbled under Ziggy in goal and rolled into the corner of the net. This was a cruel blow for the young Blues as they did not deserve such bad luck. Glenavon continued to play some good football and both Ryan and Chris had good opportunities to score but their efforts lacked real conviction. Scott and Chris were working well together down the left and were cutting the BP defence open on numerous occasions. Some great deliveries from Chris and Scott into the box were never rewarded as the Glenavon attack failed to connect with any.
The second half began with Glenavon on the attack and a great cross from Aaron found Nathan unmarked at the back post but he miscued his shot and the opportunity was lost. BP were very physical and some of their tackling bordered on unacceptable however the referee failed miserably to control the game and appeared to have succumbed to the verbal abuse and badgering from the BP line. Glenavon players were not receiving the protection needed from the ref who now losing control of the game. Glenavon pressed and pressed but failed to really test the keeper, Joel hit the woodwork with a free kick and that about summed up our day. BP scored a second late on to progress to the next round.
Saturday 27th March: Ballymoney 0-2 Glenavon
Joel Copes, Nathan Weir
Having given the previous weeks defeat some thought, especially the manner of the defeat, I felt a change in formation may help to strengthen the midfield and give the team the edge in centre of the park. With this in mind Luke Diamond was switched to centre half and Joel Copes pushed into the centre along with Curtis and Josh.
A bright start with Glenavon enjoying plenty of possession seemed to justify the changes and as the half went on Glenavon played some good football with excellent passing and movement throughout the team. Following good work from Curtis Nathan picked up the ball and burst into the box only to be upended by a Ballymoney defender, as blatant a penalty as you would see however the ref ignored the appeals for a penalty indicating Nathan had dived. This was a disgraceful decision however not unexpected as the ref was consistently biased throughout the match.
The second half began in the same mould with Glenavon totally on top, bossing the midfield, and creating plenty of chances. Curtis, who was playing very well, picked up the ball inside the Ballymoney half and beat a number of players before being taken down on the edge of the box. Joel, as reliable as ever, stepped up and smashed the ball into the back of the net. Glenavon continued to dominate with Ziggy a virtual spectator in goal. The second goal came following some good work down the left wing. Scott Megaw won possession in his own half and found Chris Burns who worked the ball to Curtis who purposefully drove down the left before crossing to Luke. Luke side stepped the Ballymoney defender before shooting only to see the keeper parry the ball into the path of Nathan who slotted home from close range.
A good team performance with everyone putting in a good shift made this a great result from my perspective. A clean sheet was particularly pleasing with the back four defending resolutely. Aaron and Scott were excellent with Luke putting in a composed and faultless performance as centre half and Brendan was a class act as sweeper. The midfield worked tirelessly with Joel and Josh doing a great job alongside the impressive Curtis. Nathan, playing as the lone striker, was excellent. He used the ball well holding it up when necessary and continually troubled the Ballymoney defence with his tireless running.
This attitutude, energy and determination to win must be taken into the remainder of the season.
Saturday 20th March: Carniny 3-0 Glenavon
This was the most disappointing performance of the season against a team Glenavon had comprehensively defeated only a few weeks ago. The match started and it was obvious from the opening minutes that there was a real lack of determination about a number of players. Glenavon were second to every ball and and there was a real lack of energy and urgency from the team. Carniny were constantly committing niggly fouls and a number of Glenavon players got involved in a war of words which played directly into the hands of Carniny. This coupled was a number of poor individual performances resulted in a comprehensive defeat. It was stressed to the boys that the most disappointing aspect of the defeat was the lack of effort and the will to win against a team lacking any real quality. It was emphasised that a change of attitude was expected for the remainder of the season.
Saturday 13th March 2010: Glenavon 3-2 Ards
Curtis Stewart, Chris Burns, Nathan Weir
Glenavon started brightly passing the ball well but lacking a cutting edge up front. The opening 15 minutes was evenly contested however the deadlock was broken when Glenavon opened the scoring. A well delivered corner from Luke Diamond was met with a powerful header from Curtis Stewart giving the Ards keeper absolutely no chance. Gleanavon were now dominating proceedings with some great passing moves and were bossing the midfield. Aaron Withers and Ryan McCrory were working well together on the right flank creating some good chances which were not taken. The second goal came courtesy of Chris Burns and it looked like it was going to be a case of how many goals Glenavon could rack up.
The second half began as the first ended with Glenavon creating numerous opportunities but failing to capitalise on any. Then against the run of play Ards pulled a goal back. Glenavon won a throw in at the half way line but inexplicably the ref awarded it to Ards. The Glenavon defence was caught cold and Ards took advantage. The 2 goal advantage was restored shortly after when Nathan Weir broke clear and finished in good style. A goalkeeping error gave Ards some hope but it would have been extremely unjust for Glenavon to lose this one. Scott Megaw then picked up the ball in his own half and ran the length of the pitch leaving two Ards players in his wake before delivering a great cross right onto the head of Luke Diamond. Luke was in acres of space but lacked a little composure and directed his header well wide.
It has to be said that this was a good performance from the boys with no exceptions. Good passing football mixed with a winning mentality was the recipe for success on this occasion. However Glenavon need about 10 chances before scoring and this needs remedied as it has cost us dearly this season.
Saturday 27th February 2010: Carniny 2-1 Glenavon (NL Cup)
A few weeks ago Glenavon played Carniny in a league match at Mallusk and comfortably won the fixture 5-2. To be honest it could have been 10 so Glenavon travelled to Ballymena confident of securing a result. How disappointed were the coaching staff at the final whistle.
Glenavon completely dominated the match yet were inept in the final third. Carniny opened the scoring with their first attack on goal totally against the run of play. Without highlighting individuals involved it is suffice to say that Glenavon failed to score despite having three one on ones with the Carniny goalkeeper, an open goal yet putting wide from 5 yards and failing to score despite complete dominance. Carniny added a second following a goalkeeping error and Joel Copes scored with a free kick from 25 yards for a consolation.The final 15 minutes Glenavon were encamped in the Carniny half but failed to find the net, a familiar occurrence this season.
Saturday 13 Feb 2010: Maiden City 4-3 Glenavon
Nathan Weir, 2, Ryan McCrory
Glenavon travelled to Londonderry having already beaten Maiden City earlier in the season and after a string of good results confidence was high. Pitch conditions were atrocious with the playing surface nothing more than a field and changing facilities unacceptable.
The game started evenly with both teams pushing forward at every opportunity but Glenavon began to assert mid way through the first half. Despite this Glenavon found themselves two down following an individual error in defence. Nothing more needs said as the player in question realised his mistakes and will only learn from the experience. Joel Copes struck a free kick from 30 yards which thundered off the crossbar only for Stephen Wilson to miss from close range. The first half ended with Glenavon two down.
The second half began with constant pressure from the young Blues and they were rewarded when Nathan Weir pulled one back from close range. Soon after Ryan McCrory equalised with a deft finish from just inside the box. Against the run of play Maiden City won a corner and despite three attempts to clear the danger Glenavon failed to do so and Maiden City scored from inside the box. Good play from Curtis Stewart in midfield and a beautiful pass found Nathan Weir who was clear on goal and finished stylishly to draw the scores level again. Glenavon were dominant in the latter stages and Curtis struck the post with a powerful header from a Glenavon corner, the Blues pressed and pressed but the winner wouldn’t come and in the final minutes Glenavon were caught on the break and paid a harsh price.
Special mention to Brendan Litter who was outstanding at the back but unfortunately a few players failed to turn up on the day and Glenavon paid the penalty.
Saturday 6 Feb 2010 Glenavon 5-2 Limavady (Mallusk)
Goals: Stephen Wilson, Curtis Stewart, Nathan Weir, Joel Copes, Own Goal
Limavady had beaten Glenavon 4-1 earlier in the season and this was an opportunity for the boys to show that that result was unjust. Glenavon again started well dominating in midfield and creating numerous early chances. Josh Mathers was put through following a fine ball from Aaron Withers but took the ball too wide and screwed his shot the wrong side of the upright. Pitch conditions were poor with the goal mouths cut up badly and these conditions contributed to some poor finishing at times. Stephen Wilson shot from close range however the ball was held up right on the line by the mud and Limavady cleared. Glenavon won a corner on the right and Luke Diamond drove the ball with pace and power across the goalmouth resulting in a Limavady defender steering the ball into his own net. Limavady equalised shortly after when Glenavon failed to properly clear a corner and the Limavady striker poked home from close range.
Glenavon continued to play well with Curtis and Luke dominating in midfield. Glenavon were creating several chances down the right wing and again Josh was put through by Curtis but his shot was well held by the Limavady keeper. Great play from Eamon down the left and his cross evaded everyone in the box but was retrieved from going out at the back post by Josh who laid it back to Curtis who found Stephen unmarked a few yards out who poked home unchallenged. Curtis went on a run and had driven into the box before being upended by a Limavady defender. The ref pointed to the spot but the keeper pushed the resulting kick from Curtis over the crossbar. Justice was done when Curtis scored from the resulting corner.
Joel Copes struck a sublime free kick from all of 25 yards and to be honest as soon as it left his foot I knew it was in. Captain Marvel, can that boy strike a ball !!!!. Limavady pulled one back from a free kick which Ziggy couldn’t hold however Nathan Weir struck a low drive into the corner from outside the box, a terrific strike. Glenavon played some great passing football in the second half which was great to watch, the Limavady coach complimenting our play at the final whistle.
Saturday 23 January 2010: Glenavon 5-2 Carniny, at Mallusk
Chris Burns, Eamonn Lavery (2), Curtis Stewart, Joel Copes
Glenavon started brightly and were dominating the play with Ryan McCrory starting well on the right wing well supported by Curtis in midfield. Stephen Wilson missed an early opportunity when put clear on goal. It was a case of deja vu with Glenavon unable to convert the many chances they created. Totally against the run of play Carniny opened the scoring when the Glenavon defence failed to clear despite having many chances to do so. Within minutes Glenavon were two down when a long ball had the defence at sixes and sevens. It was hard to accept how the young blues were trailing despite being the superior team however this is a trend evident throughout the season. However Glenavon reduced the deficit when Chris Burns converted at the back post following good work from Ryan. Eamon equalised before the break with a well struck volley.
The second half it was all Glenavon, Eamon added a third shortly after the break and Curtis struck a fine effort cutting in from the left before unleashing a wicked drive into the top corner. Joel Copes struck a superb free kick from 20 yards to seal the points for Glenavon. This was a fine display and credit to all the boys who played with composure and fluency throughout.
Saturday 12 December 2009: Glenavon 0-3 St Oliver Plunkett YC
Glenavon’s opponents shared joint second in the National League and had only 3 defeats all season so this was always going to prove a difficult fixture. SOPYC were physically much bigger than the Glenavon boys and this was to prove decisive in the final result. Nonetheless Glenavon started brightly and the opening 5 minutes were very even with Glenavon proving strong in midfield and comfortable in defence. SOPYC probably enjoyed more of the possession as the first half unfolded but still managed very few clear efforts on goal. After 13 minutes Glenavon conceded a needless free kick in the final third and the resulting free kick was met by the tallest player on the pitch to head home unchallenged. Despite this Glenavon were playing well with Curtis Stewart dominant in midfield capably assisted by Luke Diamond. A good through ball from midfield found Ryan McCrory running in on goal but he seemed to hesitate as the SOPYC defender challenged and the chance was lost. The second goal conceded by Glenavon was poor with SOPYC pumping a long ball forward which Ziggy came to collect at the edge of the 18 yard box. Ziggy had the ball in both hands but somehow it fell from his grasp and the SOPYC forward steered it into an empty net. The scoreline was unfair on the boys but such basic errors need to be cut out. Glenavon continued to play good football creating chances but unable to finish. The third goal came from a quickly taken short corner with Glenavon sleeping and the height of the SOPYC forwards again allowed them to steer an unchallenged header past Ziggy.
The second half Glenavon played some great flowing football and arguably were the best team with SOPYC creating very little. A shot cleared off the line with the keeper beaten and a Joel Copes free kick which thundered off the crossbar was typical of Glenavon’s season so far. A Chris Burns cross was blatantly pushed away from goal by a SOPYC defender, everyone seeing it except the ref of course and a sense of injustice was felt by the Glenavon contingent. Glenavon pressed and when Curtis played a great ball through to Nathan Weir he controlled it beautifully but dragged his shot wide with just the keeper to beat. The second half remained goal less.
Despite this defeat I would like to put on record the effort and quality shown by the Glenavon boys and to thank everyone of them for their effort and commitment.
Saturday 19 December 2009: Bertie Peacock Youth 1-2 Glenavon
(Eamonn Lavery, Nathan Weir)
Glenavon started in top gear and dominated this match from start to finish. Although the scoreline suggests a close match it was anything but and Glenavon could easily have scored 6 or 7 goals. The boys continued were they left off the previous week and played some wonderful fluid passing football which repeatedly ripped open their opponent’s defence. The major concern for the coaching staff is this inability to convert their dominance into goals. Chris Burns had the ball in the back of the net after persistent attacking but it was ruled out for offside and a short time later Nathan Weir had a goal bound effort cleared off the line. Bertie Peacock offered little in attack but inexplicably their first foray into the Glenavon half resulted in a goal. This was frustrating as Glenavon had opportunities to clear the ball but failed to do so. From the resulting kick off some slick passing saw the ball guided into BP’s box and although momentarily possession was lost a good tackle from Josh Mathers regained the initiative, Josh passed to Luke who into turn slid it into Eamonn Lavery who calmly steered it into the bottom corner. This was a great goal by Glenavon with the passing in the build up great to watch and a controlled execution from Eamonn. Glenavon continued to press but the first half finished all square.
The second half was the most one sided half I’ve seen in a long time with Ziggy a virtual spectator. Curtis was bossing the midfield ably assisted by the wide men and both fullbacks who were pushing forward at every opportunity. Joel Copes was pushing into midfield playing some great passes and through balls but each time they were thwarted by good defending or wrong choice of final pass. Eamonn then looked to be put through on goal inside the box and was clearly taken down however the ref waved play on. Glenavon pressed and pressed with some great passing moves carving open BP’s defence but the goal wouldn’t come. Then Chris broke clear on the left skipped past the full back and took the ball to the bye line, Curtis was standing unmarked six yards out screaming for the ball and Eamonn was clear at the back post but Chris decided to shoot from an impossible angle and the opportunity was lost. I asked the ref how long was left and he said less than ten and at this point I felt that it wasn’t going to be our day. However the boys battled away and with less than 5 mins left a super through ball from Curtis was met by Nathan who strode clear on goal with just the keeper to beat. It felt an eternity but Nathan kept his cool and steered the ball home.This was nothing more than the boys deserved and I was particularly pleased for them as they cheered the final whistle.
Saturday 5th December: Oxford Stars 3-0 Glenavon
Although the scoreline suggests otherwise those at this match can confirm that Glenavon dominated possession, played the better football and were the best team on the day. Glenavon continued where they left off last week and played some excellent passing, flowing football but it was the same old story, an inability to punish teams when the opportunity arises. Prior to the match I made a conscious decision to compare stats with Oxford, it read like follows:-
- Shots on target Glenavon 4 Oxford 4
- Shots off target Glenavon 9 Oxford 3
This was a frustrating match against a team in the higher echelons of the league. We proved today that we can compete against the top teams but in the absence of a proven goal scorer we are finding it difficult. Two of the three goals conceeded were the result of individual errors and the boys will learn from these mistakes. The third goal was some what of a comedy of errors as Glenavon attempted a pass out of defence it struck the ref, fell kindly to an Oxford player who rifled it into the net.
I was disappointed for the boys today as they performed well and the scoreline was very harsh. Special mention has to go to Curtis Stewart who was outstanding in midfield continuing from where he left off against Culmore.
Saturday 28th November: 1st Round NIBFA Cup - Glenavon 5-2 Culmore
Glenavon started well, playing some excellent flowing football, yet Culmore opened the scoring from their first foray into the Glenavon half. A cross from the right found a Culmore striker who shot from the edge of the box forcing Ziggy to produce what initially appeared to be a good save. However Ziggy somehow allowed the ball to slip from his grasp allowing Culmore to pass the ball into an open net. Glenavon responded well and a short time later were on equal terms. Good work down the right from Stephen Wilson allowed the opening for a good cross which Chris Burns steered in at the second attempt. Glenavon were well on top with Curtis Stewart dominating the proceedings from midfield well supported by Aaron Withers. Glenavon were moving the ball well and playing some good football. The second goal came following good work from Curtis who played an excellent ball into Josh Mathers who was supporting the attack from full back. The ball was inch perfect and Josh took the ball in his stride before rifling it into the roof of the net.
Glenavon continued to play some flowing football and everyone deserves mention for their effort and commitment. Chris added his second and Glenavon’s third before the break.
The second half was a case of more of the same with Glenavon dominating proceedings and Chris was having a superb game. His third goal came from a corner which Joel Copes thundered against the crossbar with a powerful header as the ball careered back off the bar Chris steered it in for a well deserved hat trick.
Chris however was not finished and kept his best for last. He picked up the ball wide on the left flank and curled the ball in at the far post. A super goal and thoroughly deserved for his outstanding individual performance. Culmore added a second before before the final whistle.
This was a team performance and everyone deserves mention for their effort and commitment. Curtis made a valuable contribution from midfield and when in this form is an invaluable asset to the team.
Saturday 31st October: Limavady 4-1 Glenavon
This was the most disappointing performance to date against a team at the bottom of the table who prior to this had recorded only one win. Things started positively with Glenavon dominating the first period yet only scoring one goal and missing numerous gilt edged chances. This inability to score is costing Glenavon dearly. Joel Copes, a defender, scored the only goal. The second half performance was very poor with a lack of fight and determination throughout the majority of the team. Glenavon have players of quality throughout the team but need to add some mettle to their performances if results are to improve.
Saturday 24th October: Glenavon 4-2 Maiden City
Glenavon went into this match hoping to get back to winning ways following the disappointment of last week’s reverse to Sion Swifts. Glenavon started poorly with poor passing and hesitancy in defence allowing Maiden City to make the brighter start. Glenavon had lost their shape in the early stages with midfield and defence at sixes and sevens. Eventually the boys began to settle down and started to press the Maiden City defence. Glenavon by this time had started to assert some authority on the game and were creating some good chances which again they failed to convert.
The opening goal came from a free kick from Joel Copes who played a great ball into Maiden City’s defence with Chris Burns rising well to head home the opener. This was a great goal from Chris as he rose under pressure to head home with some authority. This should have been the catalyst for Glenavon to press home their superiority but inexplicably they allowed Maiden City back into the game. A Glenavon attack broke down and the City forward broke away to run half the length of the pitch unopposed to score well giving Ziggy no chance in goal. A short time later a deflected shot off Brendan again gave Ziggy no chance allowing Maiden City to take the lead. This was a poor passage of play from the Glenavon boys with the midfield, Luke Diamond aside, very poor. A failure to close down, tackle and track back allowed Maiden City to take hold of the midfield and boss the game. Glenavon equalised before half time with Joel Copes again instrumental. A free kick from Joel came back off the post giving Eamonn an easy tap in.
The second half began with Glenavon starting brightly and a great through ball from Luke put Stephen Wilson clear on goal but he failed to find the net. Glenavon continued to press and Eamonn got his second of the day with a shot from just inside the box following good play down the left wing from Ryan McCrory and Scott Megaw. Glenavon, although on top, still allowed Maiden City to create some chances and this can be attributed to the Glenavon midfield going awol and allowing Maiden City to run unchallenged through on the Glenavon defence. This was not a great performance from Glenavon however they sealed the points and Eamonn got a deserved hat trick late in the game.
Saturday 17th October: Sion Mills 4-1 Glenavon
Glenavon are pleased to announce the addition of two new players to the squad. Ryan McCrory from Bloomfield and Stephen Wilson from Linfield who both players made their debuts in this match. The two lads are very welcome and I am sure they will prove to be useful additions to the squad.
First viewing of the result would suggest this was a comfortable victory for Sion Mills however this is far from the truth. The opening 20 minutes Glenavon dominated possession and some flowing football created several chances which were all wasted. Ryan McCrory started brightly on the left wing and linked well with the Glenavon forwards but on each occasion the forwards failed to punish Sion Mills. Sion Mills created nothing during this period and it seemed only a matter of time before Glenavon opened their account. This inability to score has been evident throughout the season and has cost Glenavon dearly in several matches which, had they put away their chances, would surely have gone on to win. In their first attack Sion Mills scored and a combination of poor defending and poor goalkeeping were directly responsible. A second goal quickly followed which again should have been prevented.
The second period began with Glenavon again on the attack and Stephen Wilson was creating problems for Sion Mills down the right flank. Stephen put in a great cross which only needed a touch to convert however Luke Diamond inexplicably failed to convert from a few feet out. Another cross from the right found Curtis Stewart in space again a few feet out but somehow he managed to put the ball over the crossbar. Glenavon were totally on top but a quick break away and Sion Mills added a third. This time a nothing ball into the box bounced and went in at the near post. Joel Copes pulled one back from the penalty spot before Stephen Wilson and Eamonn Lavery each failed to convert with only the keeper to beat. Had Glenavon taken their chances this would have been a comfortable victory however a combination of very poor finishing and poor goalkeeping cost Glenavon dearly.
Glenavon’s attacking players need to show more clinical finishing in the box and this is something which will have to be worked at on the training ground. A disappointing result for all but lessons need to be learnt.
Saturday 10th October: Glenavon 3-1 Ballymoney, Gordon PF, Lurgan
Glenavon continued their recent good form with a comprehensive victory over their opponents. From kick off Glenavon started brightly and forced Ballymoney on to the back foot. Glenavon were very impressive and some of their attacking play was of the highest standard. Both Nathan Weir and particularly Chris Burns were causing the Ballymoney defence lots of problems with their direct running and intelligent passing. Chance after chance was created with some excellent passing but on too many occasions poor finishing let Ballymoney off the hook. It was only a matter of time before Glenavon opened the scoring and the build up to the goal was the most pleasing aspect of this move. Josh Mathers at right back found Nathan Weir who ran with the ball before passing to Eamonn Lavery. Eamonn cut in from the right and his shot beat the keeper who probably should have done better. Glenavon were now parked in the Ballymoney half cutting the Ballymoney defence open time and again narrowly missing on numerous occasions. Ballymoney created very little but on the few occasions they managed to break into the Glenavon half Joel Copes and Brendan Litter comfortably brought their attack to an abrupt end. The second goal came from a throw in with Joel receiving the ball a few yards into the Ballymoney half. The big man took a few strides and shot at goal, truthfully Joel can strike a ball much cleaner than he did on this occasion however it beat the keeper and ended up in the back of the net. This was some reward for Joel who has consistently been a top player for Glenavon this season.
The second half began in the same vein with Glenavon pressing the Ballymoney defence but failing to find the net. Chris Burns then picked up the ball wide right before playing a beautiful through ball to Eamonn who found himself clear and through on goal. The referee blew for offside however I can assure readers the ref got this one wrong as James was watching the line and Eamonn was onside.
Ballymoney, to be fair, did come into the game some what in the second half without really threatening. The third goal for Glenavon came from Chris, who was having a great game. Chris who was turning the Ballymoney defender inside out all day again found Eamonn with a great ball and he finished in good style.
Mention also to Luke Diamond and Aaron Withers who both worked tirelessly and gave 100% committment throughout the match.
Ballymoney pulled one back from the penalty spot after a clumsy challenge from Brendan but this was little more than a consolation for Ballymoney.
Saturday 3rd October: Ards 0-6 Glenavon
Glenavon went into this match in need of a result and the boys did not disappoint. Glenavon started brightly and from the off they started to assert their authority. Enjoying the majority of possession but failing to convert was the story of the opening 15 minutes. The picture changed shortly after. Good work down the left and subsequent cross which evaded the Ards defence ran across the outside of the eighteen yard box into the path of Josh Mathers, the Glenavon right back, who struck his shot sweetly giving the Ards keeper no chance. Five minutes later and it was a case of deja vu. Brendan Litter played a great ball again into Josh Mathers who was pushing forward at every opportunity. The ball appeared to run too far wide for a shot but Josh met it in his stride and again thumped it into the roof of the net. Glenavon were totally ontop at this point and the third followed just before the break. Luke Diamond took a corner from the right which he curled in ontop of the keeper who was unable to keep the ball from crossing the line.
The second half began in the same fashion with Glenavon dominating possession but wasting too many opportunities. Ards threatened rarely but on the few occasions they did Joel Copes and Brendan Litter were faultless in defence alongside Scott Megaw and Josh. Special mention to Brendan who was playing in the unaccustomed position of sweeper but had a great game alongside Joel. 10 minutes into the second half Eamonn Lavery openend his account for the club with a simple tap in from close range, Nathan Weir added a fifth shortly after and this was deserved as Nathan had a good game and has been consistent in the opening matches of the season. Josh Coleman and Ziggy replaced Eamonn and Nathan with 20 minutes remaining and 5 minutes later Conor McCann and Ross Woolsey came on for Scott Megaw and Luke Diamond. Ross found himself through on goal with just the keeper to beat a short time later but shot tamely straight at the keeper. Ziggy however showed that his 18 goals last season was no fluke and opened his account following good work from Chris Burns.
This was a good result for the boys but sterner tests lie ahead. It is essential that the midfield learn to dominate possession and win the ball something that was not always evident in this match. Games will be won or lost in midfield and this area is a concern for the coaching staff.
Saturday 26th Sept 2009: Glenavon 0-2 Ballinamallard
It was a case of same old story as Glenavon dominated the first half but failing to take numerous openings. Chris Burns was again excellent down the left wing and was well supported by Scott Megaw at left back. Eamon Lavery was superb in the opening period playing some beautiful balls with his fellow attackers. Nathan Weir started well and had some shots which went narrowly wide. It was a good performance overall from everyone with Brendan Litter playing well in the unfamiliar role of centre half. Joel Copes offered great support as sweeper and was again faultless in this role. Glenavon were enjoying the lions share of possession but do look a little toothless up front. A good break from Ballinamallard saw their attacker through on goal and he proceeded to put the ball through Ben Rogers legs only for Josh Mathers to clear off the line.
The second half started in the same vein but as the match went on you just couldn’t see where a Glenavon goal was coming from. Glenavon started to lie a little deep and Ballinamallard were coming into the game more. The Glenavon defence was caught again and only a great tackle from Josh Mathers prevented the Ballinamallard striker a clear run on goal. Glenavon continued to press but were caught on the break and a shot from distance hit the post and crossed the line with Ben Rogers rooted to the spot. This was a cruel blow but the lesson must be learnt that chances must be put away. Glenavon were playing well with Chris Burns, Scott Megaw working well down the left and Josh Mathers pushing forward down the right. Good play from Josh Mathers and Ross Woolsey saw Glenavon win a corner on the right however it was cleared well and a ball over the top saw the Glenavon back line caught square and lacking in pace. The result was a second goal to Ballinamallard. With 10 minutes left Josh Coleman replaced Ross Woolsey and Ziggy replaced Eamon Lavery up front. Almost immediately good work from Josh Coleman saw him drive into the box only to be tripped. Instead of going to ground Josh picked himself up and crossed into the box but nothing came of it. After the match the ref stated he was ready to blow for a penalty if Josh had of stayed down.
Glenavon pressed but to no avail. The match finished in a 2 nil deficit.
Saturday 19 Sept 2009: Cliftonville 5-1 Glenavon (at Mallusk)
Stern words prior to the match and a rallying call to the boys seemed to have the desired effect.
Glenavon started really well and had Cliftonville pinned in their own half for the opening minutes. Good work down the left from Chris Burns had the Cliftonville defence in disarray and on 5 minutes Nathan Weir opened the scoring from close range. Nothing more than was deserved following a passage of excellent football from the boys. From the restart Glenavon again gained possession and were pressing Cliftonville deep into their half. Good work from Curtis Stewart found Brendan Litter who burst into the Cliftonville penalty area only to be scythed down right in front of the ‘referee’. Nothing was given and this was an unforgivable decision. As blatant a penalty and reckless foul will not be seen this season in an under 12 football match and the ‘referee’ should hang his head in shame. Despite this injustice the Glenavon boys continued to press and on eight minutes won a free kick outside the box. A crisp shot from Joel Copes and although the keeper saved he was unable to hold onto the ball. The ball spilt and a Glenavon player quite rightly went for the ball. The referee’s decision was to administer a red card to the Glenavon player. This decision was a disgrace and speaks volumes for the standard of referee forced upon us this day. A lot of questions could be asked of this referee but I will save them for any future appeal which may be open to me. I would like to ascertain what exactly the Glenavon player was sent off for? The Cliftonville goalkeeper neither asked for nor received treatment and I can only assume by this that he was unhurt. The sense of injustice felt by all spoilt what should have been an enjoyable morning for all irrespective of the scoreline. The match continued and Glenavon continued to play with great commitment and energy and continued to dominate the match. Cliftonville were restricted to some long range shots for the remainder of the half.
The second half began and it was 10 minutes into the half when the turning point arrived. The referee’s earlier attempts to derail Glenavon had failed so more direct measures were taken. A through ball saw a Cliftonville player at least 3 yards offside however something as trivial as this was not going to prevent an undeserved equaliser. Just to add insult to injury 10 minutes later and it was case of deja vu this time the distance being a meagre 2 yards. Cliftonville led 2-1. What more needs to be said. With less than 10 minutes to go the best of all was still to come. A shot from a Cliftonville player nestled in the hedge behind the goal, from where I was standing it was a clear case of ‘the ball had gone wide’. The Glenavon keeper proceeded to retrieve the ball and was making his way to take the resulting goal kick. Oh No! ‘Goal’ said the ref. When I queried this decision he said the ball had gone through a hole in the net. When I asked had he checked the nets prior to the match he did not answer. When I asked could he show me the hole he refused to do so. This is totally unacceptable from the National League and I can honestly say I have seen better organised primary school football.
However in a futile attempt to get something from the match I withdrew a full back and brought on Ziggy. However, now exposed at the back and the boys realising everything was being given to Cliftonville, they lost heart and Cliftonville added a further two goals in the final minutes. An incident just before full time on a Glenavon player saw the boy holding his ribs. This would have been a red card had the ref seen it. Surprisingly he didn’t see this one.
After the match the ref came over to the Glenavon side of the pitch and said ‘Sorry’. This speaks volumes.
This is not sour grapes as those involved with the Under 12′s are well aware of our results this season and I have no issues with any of the referee’s in charge of our games. In fact in our recent matches with Linfield and Ballinamallard the standard of refereeing has been beyond reproach.
I have not mentioned the name of the player sent off as I still await official clarification from the referee’s report and do not wish to arm my opponents.
Saturday 12 Sept 2009: Greenisland 6-0 Glenavon.
The less said about this match the better. Although up against a very good Greenisland side the disappointing aspect of this match was the inept performance of the team.
Glenavon were dominated from start to finish and there was a lack of ambition from the boys as they appeared to accept defeat from the moment the first goal was conceded.
Pinned in our own half for most of the match it was a case of keeping the score as low as possible . Although a few boys battled and tried their best there were those who portrayed an attitude of ‘who cares’ which is unacceptable. These individuals have been noted by the coaching staff and their position within the squad is precarious. Better is expected.
Tuesday 8th Sept: Glenavon 1- 5 Linfield (at Tannaghmore)
Things got off to a bad start when Captain Curtis Stewart declared himself unfit seconds before kick off. An injury which apparently manifested itself following the warm up. The subsequent re shuffle saw Josh Mathers going into midfield with Luke Diamond and Conor McCann promoted from the bench into the right back position.
Despite this set back Glenavon started brightly and enjoyed the lions share of possession in the early stages. Eamon Lavery found himself clean through on goal but sliced his shot wide from a good position. The midfield were battling well and were equal to Linfield during the opening period. Good work down the right from Nathan Weir saw Brendan Litter through on goal but he shot narrowly wide. Glenavon were restricting Linfield to few chances and the young blues were equal in every department.
On 20 minutes the good work was undone by some sloppy defending and Linfield opened their account. A few minutes later Ben Rogers hesitated in goal and allowed the Linfield striker any easy chance which he put away. Glenavon later saw themselves 3 nil down before the break. The wheels had came off by this stage and the Glenavon boys were at 6′s and 7′s. Half time was a welcome respite.
The second half began with Glenavon again starting well but failing to put away their chances. Nathan Weir, Chris Burns and Eamon Lavery were playing well and causing Linfield some problems but were receiving little support form those around them. Linfield added a fourth before Nathan Weir replied for Glenavon and Linfield scored a fifth just before the final whistle.
Overall Glenavon played well in periods but the late withdrawal of Curtis Stewart was a blow to the team forcing others to play in positions they were uncomfortable with. The Glenavon boys can take alot from the game in that they equalled Linfield in every department during long periods of the game. Poor finishing and sloppy defending undone Glenavon when up against a quality team. The standard of football in the National League is far superior than any other league in the country and it will take some time and further experience to be in a position to compete with the best at this level.
Saturday 5th Sept: Glenavon 1-5 Larne
What a difference a few days make. This was a very poor performance from the young blues. The game began quite evenly with neither team dominating proceedings. Glenavon won a corner after 10 minutes and the set piece was cleared comfortably by the Larne defence but dropped kindly to Scott Megaw who drove in a fierce shot which was well saved by the opposing keeper. Glenavon were passing the ball poorly and there was no composure whilst in possession resulting in losing possession easily. The Glenavon midfield could not keep their shape allowing Larne to take a foothold on the game. Despite this Glenavon were battling away and restricting Larne to only shots from distance.
The inevitable occurred after 15 minutes when Larne won a corner which should have been prevented and from the resulting kick Aaron Withers headed into his own goal. Shortly after the re-start, with Glenavon all over the place, Larne broke again to go 2 up.
At this point the Glenavon heads had visibly gone down and they were in disarray. Larne added a third shortly before the break.
The second half began and Glenavon improved with Chris Burns and Nathan Weir taking the game to Larne. Despite their efforts the Glenavon forwards were off the pace and offered no support. Curtis Stewart then appeared to be carrying an injury and only contested midfield on occasions. Larne added a fourth from a corner which Ben Rogers in goal really should have prevented. Glenavon pulled one back through Nathan Weir following good work from Chris Burns down the left flank. Glenavon finished the game on the attack and were unlucky not to add a second when Curtis Stewart struck the crossbar.
Overall this was a poor performance from Glenavon where they lost their shape in midfield allowing the back four to be overrun. The second goal against seemed to be the catalyst for a collapse in confidence allowing cracks to appear throughout.
This was disappointing for the management team as they know the boys are capable of alot better than what was on show today.
Wednesday 3rd Sept: Dungannon 2 : 0 Glenavon
The Glenavon squad boasted several new faces from that which represented the club last season in the Mid Ulster League. Towards the latter end of last season and during the summer all those involved with the Under 12’s worked tirelessly to bring in players capable of performing in this premier league and their efforts were rewarded with the addition of 10 new players to the squad. However I would like to put on record my thanks to all those who played for the club last season and wish them every success with their new clubs. I would like also to thank Guy McDowell (Glenavon Scout) for his herculean efforts in securing the signatures of numerous players from Banbridge which have been central to the building of this new squad. It had been suggested that those in question had been worn into submission and I must agree my resilience would have been broken much sooner. Mr Johnston must be a tough nut to crack……………..
This was a difficult start for Glenavon against a top quality team who are unbeaten in over a year. The boys were well prepared and up for the challenge and confidence was high in the dressing room.
Glenavon strarted brightly and the opening period was evenly contested. The midfield partnership of Curtis Stewart (Capt) and Luke Diamond looked solid with both boys competing well and giving their all. Chris Burns and Nathan Weir,working the left and right sides of midfield respectively, were seeing plenty of the ball and worked both flanks well. Aaron Withers started a little nervously in central defence but grew as the game progressed and was excellent throughout. Joel Copes, playing as a sweeper, was his usual calm and collected self and was virtually faultless throughout. The full backs Scott Megaw and Josh Mathers were also excellent and their distribution of the ball was good. Midway through the first half and a good ball from midfield saw Ziggy Gargasas clear on goal however he appeared to trip on the ball and the chance was gone. As the first half came to an end, with only seconds left, an innocuous looking shot from distance rolled towards Ben Rogers in goal and somehow managed to trickle through his legs and over the line. A cruel blow to Glenavon and undeserved after such a good first half.
The second period began in the same fashion as the first with the game evenly contested. Although seeing plenty of the ball Glenavon did not look like opening their account and I decided to replace Ziggy with Eamonn Lavery shortly after the break. Dungannon were creating some chances but the back four and midfield defended well and Dungannon were forced to shoot from distance on most occasions. Brendan Litter was put through following a fine ball from Nathan Weir however the Dungannon centre back came across to make a great tackle and the opening was lost.
On 50 minutes a Dunganonn player picked up the ball in midfield and the Glenavon defence failed to close him down, he closed on goal and was allowed to shoot without a challenge, the ball nestling in the bottom corner. A poor goal to concede but a harsh lesson for the young Glenavon boys. Ross Woolsey, Conor McCann and Josh Coleman made late appearances. The game ended without further openings to either team.
