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2007 information

 Here’s my last report of the season.

Game 21 Halswell United 0 Nomads United 1 (Played at Halswell Domain ‘The Nest’ 1/09/07)

 Report by Ron Griffiths.

  We have reached the end of an exciting ‘roller coaster’ season. And to be fair both Nomads and Western entertained hundreds of people for weeks with a thrilling battle for the title. Nomads triumphed in the end, after suffering theft from player’s cars mid season. They also lost 3 times to arch rivals Western along the way. But Keith Braithwaite and Kevin Calder somehow managed to keep the boys focused and competitive, despite the setbacks. This was crucial when the going got tough. In the end ‘fate’ took a hand in this our final game. A lucky or unlucky own goal (Depending on your view point) was enough to get the Blues home.  

A large crowd was in party mood right around the ground. It was warm, and there were plenty of beers to go around for the Blues faithful. The party really started when a ricochet shot hit Steve Neme and trickled past the hapless Halswell keeper for an own goal. (0-1). Nomads took control of the game from then on. It became a one sided encounter, right up to the final whistle. Dave Tregenza’s long range effort went just wide. Luke Petrie’s tireless running caused problems in the Halswell defence. Before half time approached, Gavin Jeffs hit the cross bar. DT‘s free kick went wide. Greg Feutz’s shot was cleared off the line.  

In the 2^nd half, Luke brought about a great save from the Halswell goal keeper. A midfield battle ensued for long periods of the game. Another Luke ‘screamer’ just went wide. Unlucky Greg Feutz saw his goal bound effort cleared off the line. 10 minutes remaining seemed like 2 hours for all of the Blues fans! But finally it was all over and the celebrations began. We enjoyed a roaring party at the club house that night. We were also sportingly congratulated by everyone at Halswell United.

Game 20 Nomads United 1 Western AFC 3 (Played at Tulett Park 25/08/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.

 Nomads can have no complaints as a determined Western, upset their hosts this afternoon. A cup final atmosphere, and big crowd and sunny warm weather defined the game. If only regular games around the Mainland League attracted such interest. The game would then go from strength to strength. Fortunately for the Blues, they have one more chance to win the league next week. A win against Halswell will see us home by one point. The defeat today has cost us the Hurley Shield. Western keeps it for the summer.

 The game opened competitively. But within 10 minutes the Blues were behind. Chris O’Neil buried his chance when he met a cross at the far post (0-1). Gareth Turnbull blasted his shot over the bar. Nomads seem to have ‘stage fright’. Nomads created a couple of half chances. A tense midfield battle was also waged. Late in the first half, a Western striker missed an easy tap in. The Western Keeper had no serious effort on goal to deal with. Just before the whistle Daniel Burns shot high and wide.

 Nomads started the second half in a lively fashion. The Blues applied pressure, but could not get the ball to their strikers. Jordon Buchanan made a point blank save from Gareth Turnbull. Jean Claude had a shot saved. This was the Blues best effort thus far. Dave Tregenza played well down the wing, creating a couple of half chances. Dave Mawhinney  scored from close range for Western (0-2). Andy Pitman pulled a goal back for the Blues (1-2). Luke Petrie’s shot is cleared off the line by Western defender Halem Gaor who somehow he got his head to the ball. As Nomads threw everything forward, they were caught on the break. Dave Mawhinney scored his second goal of the game to wrap it up (1-3).

Game 19 Woolston Technical 1 Nomads United 3 (Played at Garrick Park 18/08/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.  

The pressure was really on today. The Hurley Shield was up for grabs and also 3 vital title winning points. I sharp wind on a grey day defined this game. However a largish crowd managed to stay cheerful throughout. Even some ‘mouthy’ Tech fans added to the occasion.  

Stuart Kelly showed Tech’s intentions early on by firing the ‘Yellows’ into the lead. He wriggled and hustled his way through our defence and let fly (1-0). This was a bad start for the Blues, but we recovered well. Luke Petrie found plenty of space down the right wing. He began to cause trouble in the Tech defence. A cross, found Ryan Batty unmarked and he buried the ball (1-1). Nomad’s pressure begins to pay off. Andy Pitman played well in midfield. Blues then took control of the game. Andy Pitman tried his luck from 25 yards out. His shot ‘screamed ‘in (1-2). Before half time Jean Claude just shot wide.  

The 2^nd half opened frantically as the Blues looked for a third goal. Luke Petrie saw his shot well saved by the Tech Keeper. Ryan Batty’s shot bounced into the goal, in what seemed like slow motion (1-3). A tight midfield battle then ensued. Gavin Jeffs shot high and wide towards the end. The final whistle blew. Then the celebrations started as the Blues take charge of the Hurley Shield for the very first time.  

English Cup Semi Final: Nomads United 1 Ferrymead Bays 2 (Played at English Park 14/08/07) Report by Ron Griffiths

Nomad’s hopes of winning three Cups this year were dashed tonight. However, this was an entertaining and exciting game despite the result. The Blues had the Lions share of possession and chances in the first half. Greg Feutz crashed a shot off the post. Jean Claude and Andy Pitman missed half chances. Against the run of play, Ramzy opened the scoring for Bays (0-1). Ben Archer scored from the penalty spot.Jordan Buchanan was adjudged to have fouled a Bays player in the box (0-2).

 In the 2^nd half Feutzy grabbed a goal early on by turning away from his marker (2-1). Nomads then went off ‘the boil’ a little. Feutzy had another ‘goal’ disallowed late on. Blues tried frantically to get an equaliser towards the end of the game but to no avail. And so we say farewell to our biggest prize from last year.

Game 18 Nomads United 1 Richmond City 0 (Played at Tulett Park 11/08/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.

 Nomads took a giant stride towards winning the league this afternoon. Meanwhile our rival Western went down 2-1 at Nelson. That means that we are top by one point with a game in hand. I witnessed a very tense game. I had one or two more grey hairs at the end of the game, than when it started!  

From the beginning it was ‘one way traffic’. As the game wore on, it was clear that Richmond had come to defend. They could have set up tents in their penalty area and made camp!  Jean Claude had a shot well saved. The Blues were clearly playing with confidence. Apart from the City defence, Nomads players seemed to get in the way of each other when in attacking positions! The Blues created some half chances, while Richmond did not fire a single shot in anger. At the ‘death’ Greg Feutz hit the City cross bar with a header.  

Feutzy turned in the penalty area and just shot wide to open the second half. Gavin Jeffs had the agony of seeing his shot blocked on the line. Soon after, Richmond did manage to get past half way but failed to take their chances. Meanwhile at the other end Luke Petrie hit the bar with a 20 yard cracker. Frustration seems to sink in both on the pitch and around the ground. City, continue to defend like their lives depended on it. And as time ticked away, I got the feeling it was going to be one of those days. The word went around that Western was losing. That made for a frantic last ten minutes. Luke Petrie blasted the ball over the bar from 10 yards out. Dave Tregenza’s free kick went the same way! Then a cross finds Greg Feutz unmarked and he headed the ball home with a couple of minutes remaining! (1-0). The crowd roared and it was all over. What an exciting end of season for all concerned.  

Game 17 Nomads United 6 Ferrymead Bays 0 (Played at Tulett Park 4/08/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.  

After an easy demolition of Avon United, in the English Cup (5-0) midweek, it was time to again concentrate on the league. The rain drizzled down throughout. But spirits were not dampened, as the Blues roared into life. This was in my opinion their best display this season. And quite honestly was worthy of a title winning side. Even Bay’s Coach, Fred Simpson said that he would be the first to come to club rooms at the end of the season, to congratulate us. And buy Keith Braithwaite a drink if we win the league!

In the first half, Jean Claude showed our early attacking intention by blasting the ball over the Bays bar from close range. An in swinging corner found Andy Pitman. He headed over the same crossbar. Nomads play with passion and confidence. Greg Feutz scored the first of a hat trick, with a well struck header from close range (1-0). JC turned in the area, struck a post, and the ball went spinning into the net (2-0). Glen Squire then scored a stunning ‘goal of the season’ as he saw his 30 yard effort ‘scream’ into the net (3-0). JC saw another of his headed shots go wide. Bays rally a bit by playing down the wing. The Blues defence proves equal to this however.

In the 2^nd half JC missed an early long range effort. Blues show no sign of ‘resting on their laurels’. In a rare attack Bays saw a free kick cannon off our defensive wall, and go wide. Feutzy had a ‘goal’ disallowed. But he made amends by charging down field and burying his next effort (4-0).  He lets fly again two minutes later (5-0). Blues are in complete control, and seem to queue up to score! Feutzy again bounced his header onto the ground and into the net (6-0). Luke Petrie brought a good save from the Bays keeper. Bays hit the side netting at our end, but all is in vain. But for 3 offside decisions we could have had more goals! The supporters all agreed we had witnessed the best game of the season and enjoyed some of the best goals too.

Next Games:

 League v Richmond City Tulett Park 11/08/07 245pm

English Cup Semi Final V Ferrymead Bays 14/08/07 7pm English Park

Game 16 Nomads United 2 Rangers AFC 0 (Played at Tulett Park 28/07/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.

 After two road trips it was good to welcome the lads back home this afternoon. For the record we were beaten away at Caversham in the Chatham Cup 0-1. But a Greg Feutz goal secured a win in Nelson to keep our title hopes alive. Put simply, if we win all of our remaining games then we will win the league. Every game therefore can be regarded as a ‘cup final’. This game was not pretty, but Rangers have improved this season. And as they say, ’a win is a win’.

Much travelled Michael Sands was in the line up for Rangers. Apparently, coaxed out of retirement by Alan Stroud, who again played in goal for Rangers. Somehow you have to admire his commitment to football whoever you support. Early Blues pressure was coped with well by the visitors defence. Chris Williams broke through the Nomads defence and had a ‘one on one’ with Jordon Buchanan. Jordon saved well with his feet. Nomads failed to stamp their authority on the game in the first ¼ . Rangers meanwhile sprung the offside trap on many occasions. Jean Claude looked to have scored but the ball was adjudged to not have crossed the line fully. Gareth Rowe then ‘stepped up to the mark’. His first headed effort went over the bar. His second, a minute later flew in (1-0). Nomads seem to loose some composure, as Chris Williams for Rangers blasted wide. Nomads ended the half on the ‘back foot’  

Blues came out firing in the second half. Several half chances were created. Gareth Rowe again brought a great save from Alan Stroud. At the other end Jordon made some fine saves to deny the visitors. Rangers did not live up to their lowly League status. Then ‘all hell breaks loose’. Ryan Batty clearly had his shirt pulled in the area. The Rangers defender only receives a yellow card and is lucky to stay on the pitch! JC makes no mistake with his penalty (2-0). More Blues pressure created some half chances before the end. Luke Petrie missed the best of these, blasting his shot over the bar.  

The crowd was low today. We have a real chance of winning this league. Make sure you are there to cheer them on!.

(game 14) Western AFC 3 Nomads United 1(Played at Hillmorton Hospital Ground 7/7/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.

 This was a late ground change when the council cancelled all public grounds the day before. The weather however turned out to be cold but fine! These Hospital grounds have played host to a number of Chatham Cup games, all in the ‘mists of time’. (This game was also played on my Birthday, and it did not follow my script for the day at all!)

 The game opened very competitively but Western were the first team to take control. And the luck was with them as a Western shot pinged off Daniel Burns leg and we gifted them the lead (1-0). Western Hit the post soon after. This should have served as a wake up call, but it did not. Greg Feutz blasted the ball wide. Again in a crazy 10 seconds Western hit the Blue’s post, the ball ricochets back to their striker, and he shot wide!. Nomads seem to lack confidence and cannot stamp their authority on the game. Western had a ‘goal’ ruled offside, before Gareth Turnbull scores (2-0). The blues defence seemed to be nowhere. Western hit the post again as the half comes to a close! 

In the 2^nd half, Nomads came out firing. Andy Pitman led the charge. A free kick and a corner came to nothing however. Feutzy turned in the penalty area, and shot just wide. Jean Claude found some space, and buried his shot (2-1). Western half chances go high and wide. Then Gareth Turnbull scores with a ‘bullet” header to seal the game (3-1).

Chatham Cup: Nomads United 3 Western AFC 0 (Played at Tulett Park 30/06/07) Report By Ron Griffiths.

 It was good to see a sizable crowd at the ground today. The atmosphere was good through out. Please keep coming to support the boys!

The game opened at a frantic pace. Jordon Buchanan again played well in goal as he was put under early pressure.  There was soon panic in the Western penalty area and Jean Claude pounced on a loose ball and put the Blues in front (1-0). Andy Pitman got in a good position but blasted his shot wide. At the other end Jordon makes another crucial save to keep Nomads lead. It was easy to see why these two sides are top of the league at the moment. The rest of the half was a tight midfield battle.

In the 2^nd half Jordon again made a great one handed save to again keep Nomads lead in tact. Both sides then settle into a comfortable rhythm. JC wriggled through the Western defence and shot at goal. The ball ricocheted into the path of Greg Feutz who smashed the ball home (2-0). It is great to see Greg back on the score sheet again. To reply, Western won a free kick, but the shot went over the bar. The Blues played confidently as Western heads begin to drop. An in swinging corner finds its way to Ryan Batty, who scores from close range. (3-0). The Blues held out comfortably to the end. Every one had a drink out of the Macfarlane cup at the club party that night!.

Next Game; Premier League Away V Western@ Walter Park 7/7/07 245pm

(Game 13)Nomads United 2 Woolston Technical 1 (Played at Tulett Park 23/06/07) Report By Ron Griffiths.

 Despite Tech’s lowly position, they played with grit and determination through out. And gave us a good game of football. Tech looked like Brazil in their Yellow and blue strip. Their fans played drums through out to add to the atmosphere. Stuart Kelly opened the scoring with a well taken free kick. (0-1). Andy Pitman’s well taken free kick could not find a way through soon after. Luke Petrie hit a twenty yard thunder bolt to level the scoring (1-1). This was an opportunity out of nothing. Tech go on the attack and miss two chances of their own. Jean Claude is brought down in the box, but can’t convert his own penalty as his shot hit a post. Tech counter attack but their striker shot over the bar. J.C tucks an angled shot away (2-1). Jordon Buchanan is in fine form as the Blues end the half on top.

Gavin Jeffs opens the 2^nd half by blazing his shot over the bar. There were half chances for both sides as the game unfolded. Stuart Kelly’s fine long range effort beat Jordon and the post. Greg Feutz long range shot hit the bar for us. The game was very evenly matched. J.C again blasted a shot wide when clean through. Just before the end of full time, the referee spotted some handling in the Blues area. He pointed to the spot and the Nomads faithful held their breath. And how we cheered, when the ball was blasted into the sky. A great win and the Blues are top by one point

Chatham Cup Round 3: Nomads United 0 Nelson Suburbs 0 after extra time. Nomads win 3-0 on penalties. (Played at Tulett Park 16/06/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.

 This match attracted the attention of not only Nomads Supporters but also Canterbury United coaches and management. So there was plenty to play for. To be honest, the Blues rode their luck through out. But as the saying goes,’ it’s a funny old game’.  

As the game opened, Luke Petrie and Greg Feutz both had half chances to score. Tempers got heated in the dug outs between the coaches and officials. The game at this stage became one of midfield ‘aerial ping pong’. Both sides created half chances, but both defences held firm through out the half.  

In the 2^nd half, Jean Claude went down under a sliding tackle from a suburbs defender. Shouts for a penalty were waved away however. Both sides played more competitively. An in swinging corner from the Blues was perfect but no one could find the finishing touch. The ball was played up field only for the Nelson striker to shoot wide. At least the game seemed to be coming alive at this point. Then J Nawo decided that this game was worth winning. He got clean through our defence but Jordon Buchanan managed to hang onto his shot. Even though, he was scrambling on his knees, to do so. Then Nawo saw his shot blaze over the bar. Then another shot from him beat Jordon and the far post. The Blues defence seemed to be asleep at this stage.  

In the 1^st spell of extra time, Jordan again saved well from Nawo at point blank range. Jordan made two other great saves as Nomads buckled under pressure. (He deserved his Man of the Match today). Gavin Jeffs long shot was beaten away, in a rare Blues attack.

In the 2^nd spell, Ben Cameron’s shot brought a finger tip save from the Nelson Keeper. J.C’s headed effort was saved. While at the other end, Nawo missed an open goal.

Penalties.  

G Kwanae missed: 0

J.C scores             1

S Parks hit the bar 0

Steve Hill Scores    2

P Dirou  Missed     0

Ryan Batty Scores 3

(Game 12) Nomads United 5 Richmond City 0 (Played at Tulett Park 9/06/07) Report By Ron Griffiths.

 It’s easy to feel sorry for Richmond and the disastrous twist that has befallen them this season. I think they have done enough to stay up, but their long term future seems unclear. Richmond certainly needs to rebuild sooner rather than later. Another ‘Sugar Daddy’ business man may prove hard to find.

 Take a bow Jean Claude as he completely stole the show today! He scored the first of FOUR goals from close range early on.(1-0) This followed sustained Blues pressure. J.C again found himself unmarked as he drilled the ball home from close range soon after.(2-0). It’s all one way traffic in the first quarter of the game. Greg Feutz is improving in confidence. He thumped a shot just wide and again saw another shot go just over the bar. J.C wriggled clear of his marker to score a ‘hat trick’ (3-0). As half time approached, Richmond still had not had a meaningful attempt on goal. Andy Pitman had a couple of half chances at the ‘death.

 In the second half, Richmond started brightly by passing the ball around well. But Nomads midfield let by Dave Tregenza , started to take control. Gareth Rowe tried a shot, but only proved that he is better in defence!. Luke Petrie led a charge down the wing, and crossed to J.C who fired home.(4-0). Richmond looked completely beaten at this stage of the game. Mark Currie made a great save from Luke Petrie. At the other end Jordan Buchanan saves a point blank effort just by being in the way!. Feutzy missed another great chance. He seems to be as unlucky as J.C is lucky. J.C again brought about a finger tip save from Mark Currie. Then Steve Hill had two attempts on goal. The first is deflected away, the second is steered home. (5-0). All in all,a morale boosting win.

Game 11) Ferrymead Bays 2 Nomads United 2 (Played at Barnett Park 2/06/07 Includes Hurley Shield Challenge)  Report by Ron Griffiths.

When Keith Braithwaite and Fred Simpson “lock horns” as coaches, you know that the game will be full of passion. This game was no exception. Glen Squire’s early long range free kick brought an early save from Dominic Beight in the Bays Goal. This game was played at a very fast pace through out. Nomads defence was at full stretch in the opening period. Then Jean Claude found himself unmarked and drilled his shot home (0-1). Frantic half chances fell to both teams. Jordon Buchanan played confidently in the Blues goal. Luke Petrie again played well down the wing creating chances for others. Nomads finished the half having enjoyed most of the play.  

In the second half, Jordon is left scrambling on the ground as Greg Draper steered his shot home to make it (1-1). Soon after Eli Doornenbal bounced a shot into the ground ,and into the goal (2-1). Nomads seem to fall apart at this stage. They recover quickly however, as J.C scored a header to level the scores (2-2). Then Nomads threw everything, at Bays. Gavin Jeffs shot went just wide of the far post. Luke Petrie’s volley was well saved. Beight saved a header from Greg Feutz . Then a wondrous double save from Glen Squires and Feutzy again. Bays then cling on to the final whistle and retain the Hurley Shield.

Chatham Cup Round 2 Nomads 2  Ferrymead Bays 1 (Played at Tulett Park 4/06/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.

The excitement continued from two days ago in the league, as these two old foes clashed again. The opening spell opened at a fast pace again. Glen Squires long range shot is fumbled by the Bays keeper and Steve Hill bundles the ball home to open the scoring (1-0). Luke Petrie brings a good save from Dominic Beight again soon after. Luke does better soon after smashing a shot home (2-0) as Blues pile on the pressure. A tight midfield battle ensues as Bays try to ‘stop the rot’. Andy Pitman plated well and seems to be back to his best. There are scares before half time as Bays hit the Blues post. 

In the second half, Callum Fraser scored for Bays early on (2-1). Bays really ‘let Nomads have it’, at this point in the game. Another shot goes just wide of the Blues goal. Nomads are visibly buckling under pressure. Then nomads fought back. Jean Claude cannot quite latch onto a poor back pass from a Bays defender. Brendan Snelling blocked a certain goal  on the line. Ferrymead again attacked hard, but somehow Blues hung on and go forward to the next round of the cup.

(Game 10) Rangers A.F.C 0 Nomads United 5 (Played at Eric Adam Park 26/05/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.

 All the pre-match talk was about Fifi , a Solomon Islander signed by Rangers to give them a bit more ‘metal’. However he made little impact, as Rangers still have not won at home in the league this Season. Nomads however have made it 10 goals in two games and seem much more like their old selves.

The first half started in a lively enough fashion. Daniel Burns played well in defence to soak up early pressure. Luke Petrie then decided to get Nomads moving. He was easily the man of the match today and seemed instrumental in Nomads best attacking moves. Jean Claude charged down the right wing and crossed for Luke to open the scoring with an angled shot (0-1).One minute later Gavin Jeffs scored a good goal from 10 yards out (0-2). Luke then hit a volley just wide. Luke is the right player in the right position at the right time. He scored from close range, after an altercation and mix up in the Rangers penalty area (0-3). Then a Rangers player gets free of his marker. Jordon Buchanan is called into action to make a great save. It is Rangers first real shot in anger.

 In the second half, Luke sprinted down the left wing and crossed for J.C to finish (0-4). This was like the first goal. Both taking turns at scorer, and provider. Luke then watched his curling shot go just wide. Rangers have a thundering shot crash off the Blues cross bar. Jordan gratefully gathers shot in his arms. Gavin Jeffs scored a well taken volley soon after (0-5). Rangers then look like they ‘have thrown in the towel’ not only on this match but also the season! A couple of half chances eventuated before the end of the game for both teams.

Nomads United 5 Christchurch Boys High School 0 (Played at Tullet Park 19/05/07) Report by Ron Griffiths.

 The score line may belong to Nomads but the occasion certainly belonged to Boys High. They played their hearts out, and never gave up. It is also endearing to play a school who clearly value their soccer, in a city where School Rugby is famous.

Startlingly Boys High nearly took the lead as the Blues were too casual but Jordan Buchanan smothered the shot. The rest of the game was one way traffic and a ‘Stroll in the Park’ for Blues. Jean Claude grabbed a hat trick. Greg Feutz scored for the first time in a long while. And Gavin Jeffs completed the scoring to make the Blues 5-0 winners. The cross bar prevented even more goals.

I wish the School Boys all the best for their sporting careers. Hopefully the experience at playing at this level will help them on their way.

(Game 9) Nomads United 1 Nelson Suburbs 1   (Played at Tulett Park 12/05/07) Match report by Ron Griffiths.

Players held a one minutes silence before the game to honour Tony who lost his life here last Saturday. Players and coaches also wore black arm bands. On a lighter note, Keith Braithwaite turned 50 last week. Our congratulations go out to him.

Every one seemed to have an opinion about this match in the club house after the game. The media commented that this was an ‘upset’ result. The fact is that we did not lose, so let’s hope that we can build on this result and challenge for the top position again soon.

The game started very competitively but disaster struck after 6 minutes when J Nawo turned in our box, and beat our defence and scores. (0-1) Ben Cameron shot over the bar from a good position in the Nelson area. Nelson missed a good heading opportunity soon after. Then Dave Tregenza hit a bullet of a shot, which even the Nelson keeper seemed to stand and admire as it whistled into the net. (1-1).This goal was greeted with some relief around the ground. The Blues now demonstrate that they are playing with more purpose. There were half chances as at both ends at the midway point. A Nelson player saw his shot ping off the corner of the goal with Jordon Buchanan well beaten .Gavin Jeffs long Range shot went just wide at the other end.

Nomads start the 2^nd half confidently and appear more organised. Nelson won a free kick just out side the Blues area. The shot curled past our defensive wall and thundered off our post. It seems amazing to everyone that the game is still 1-1!. Nelson’s Mitchell runs what seems the length of the pitch, passing Nomads players as he went. Fortunately his final shot just went wide. Steve Hill got into a good scoring position in the Nelson area, but could not quite keep his shot down and it flew over the bar. The game then settled into a long mid field battle. Andy Pitman made a welcome return from injury late in the game. Rami Dawas shot hit the Nelson cross bar in the dying moments of the game.

( Game 8)Nomads United 0 Halswell United 3 (Played at Tulett Park 5/05/07) Match Report By Ron Griffiths.

There were early chances at both ends in the first half, in a competitive early spell.  Jean Claude found himself clean through on goal but lost his composure at the vital moment and his shot went wide. J C had another great opportunity to score but shot straight at the keeper a minute later. Nomad’s pressure in the first quarter of the game came to nothing. Then Halswell came alive hitting the Blues post and crossbar in quick succession. Luke Petrie scored, but celebrations are cut short when his goal is ruled off side. Keith Braithwaite registers his disgust at the decision. Jordon Buchanan is beaten as Luke James puts Halswell ahead with a header (0-1). A mid field battle ensues between both teams. Nomads composure begins to fall apart. Greg Fuetz missed a great header opportunity just before half time.

The 2^nd half started in a lacklustre way for both sides. Then a Halswell player broke down the right flank, and his shot/pass pinged off our own Gareth Rowe. (0-2). The misery seemed to continue. Halswell fans could not contain their glee. Nomads lack of confidence, is evident now in every department. Jonathan Deaker got wide of his marker and hit an angled shot which beat Jordan and crept in at the far post. (0-3). Nomads now looked well beaten. Dave Treganza thundered a free kick over the bar. Gavin Jeffs hit the cross bar as blues tried to rally. It was all to little, to late minutes before the final whistle.

(After the Match in the club house a moments silence was observed for a Nomads Player, who had collapsed and died on a pitch adjacent to ours during the game)

(Game 7)Nomads United 0 Western AFC 1   (Played at Tulett Park 29/04/07)    Report by Ron Griffiths.

This result rounds off a week of misery for Nomads. The players cars were broken into on Tuesday training night (Any information to the Police please) and our 22 match unbeaten run came to a shuddering halt on Saturday. Keith and Kevin have seven days to lift moral before we play Halswell or I fear that our season may ‘come off the rails’

This Match also marked the last game for Joe Murray. Word is he is heading back to the U.K. Jordan Buchanan was back in goal. There was heavy Western pressure early on .They were roared on by a large crowd of travelling fans. Nomads seemed to struggle to get organised from the start, on a heavy pitch. The game was a stale mate for the first quarter. Then disaster as battling Daniel burns is carried off, and later needed hospital treatment. Greg Feutz is brought down near the edge of the area. Ryan Batty is unable to convert his free kick as it strikes the Western wall and goes wide. Discipline in both teams breaks down as tackles and bodies seem to fly every where. Feutzy gets the ball to Jean Claude in the area, unbelievably J.C falls over and the ball goes wide. Howls of laughter greeted this from Western Fans. While in the Blues camp you got the impression that it was just going to be one of those days. Colin McDermott rises in the area to head home a free kick to make it (0-1). Dave Treganza shoots from about 15 yards bringing a one handed save from the Western Keeper. This is really the Blues only shot in anger in the first half.

Glen Squire hit the post after the restart, and Feutzy’s effort went over the bar from close range. Nomads try and play with more purpose. Feutzy hit the side netting with a header soon after. Western regroups and start to get back into the match after this spell. Half chances go begging at both ends. Gareth Rowe just misses from long range at the end of the game.

Let’s hope the Lads have a better week, next week.

(Game 6) Woolston Technical FC 2  Nomads United 2  (Played at  Garrick Park   21/04/07)

This was a venue I was looking forward to visiting for some while. There seems a sense of excitement also from supporters of Tech and Woolston as they embark on a new chapter in their club’s histories. I was not disappointed either. The pitch was excellent; we were given match day programmes, and the new club rooms are well worth a visit. The atmosphere in these rooms at the after match function was like being in an old illegal boxing den, that you see in movies. Even the M.C said that this part of Woolston Club has been described as the Lamb and Hayward Funeral Parlour waiting room! But all of this simply added to the occasion.

The other occasion of note was of course Keith Braithwaite’s 100^th game in charge of the first team. He deserved the reception for him at Tulett Park after the game.

 The game was a lively entertaining affair right from the kick off. Jean Claude missed a header opportunity early on. Steve hill’s in swinging free kick came to nothing. Nomads back four held firm for the first quarter of the game. Then the dead lock was broken. Tech won a free kick just out side our area. And old campaigner Chris Morris scores from close range. (Possibly with his arm!) (1-0) I felt that this was against the run of play. J.C and Gavin Jeffs both missed half chances soon after. Then a Tech striker got clear of his marker, and thundered a shot off of the Blues cross bar. Then a minute later and just before half time J.C found himself on side, and chipped his shot into the Tech goal. (1-1).

In the second half reserve goal keeper Jason Stutheridge, made a fine fingertip save to deny a Tech 15 yard scorcher. Ben Cameron again worked hard on the wing. J.C brings another good save from Tech goalie Jason Ashton. Tech are awarded a penalty, Nomads management are incensed. Jamie Smith made no mistake from the spot to make it (2-1). Nomads press forward. But a miss taken free kick allows Tech to break in numbers the attack ends when a shot beats Jason and fortunately the far post too. J.C received a pass in the area and his shot ‘bobbles’ across the ground but finds the target (2-2). Relief for Blues Fans. Daniel Burns played a good ball out of defence Greg Feutz but Feutzie shot wide. Luke Petrie and JC both miss further chances before the final whistle.

A fair result and a draw away from home is acceptable. Let’s hope the other teams do not reduce our lead at the top.

(Game 5)  Nelson teams go down By Daniel Nielsen - The Nelson Mail | Monday, 16 April 2007

(Game 4) Nomads United 2 Ferrymead Bays 0 (Played at Tulett Park 9/04/07)  

The news for Nomads was mixed prior to kick off; Greg Feutz was out with a groin strain. Jean Claude was back however after a trip to Auckland . This game did attract the biggest crowd of the season, (100) let’s hope that this remains the trend

Early pressure from Nomads resulted in two corners which came to nothing. A Bays striker’s header went narrowly wide for them at the other end. This game displayed a good standard of football from both sides throughout. The Bays goalkeeper made a good save from a Gavin Jeffs header. Ben Cameron hit the side netting following a good cross from Rami Dawss, as the Blues made a battle of it. Then just before half time Gavin Jeffs got clear of Bays defence and scored from close range. (1-0), big cheers from the crowd!

In the second half, Joe Murray gets a start, and his class and experience begin to make a huge difference to Nomads as they look to increase their lead. Its end to end stuff at this stage, again Ben Cameron plays well down the wing. This causes Bays big defensive problems. Jean Claude finds himself one on one with the Bays keeper but he can’t find a way past him. At the other end, a Bays free kick thunders against the Blues crossbar. JC puts his shot over the bar from close range. Nomads dominate the second half at this stage. Gavin Jeffs could not get any power to his shot with the goal at his mercy. Then Joe Murray gets reward for his hard work by scoring from close range to finish the game, (2-0)

 The boys are now 3 points clear at the top of the table!  See you on the side line Ron Griffiths.

(Game 3) Nomads United 5 Rangers AFC 0 (Played at Tulett Park 7/04/07)

After last years wet dreary winter of playing lots of games at Nunweek Park and English Park two weeks ago, this seemed like a happy home coming for the Blues.

Two shocks for the day, 1, by half time Rangers had let in 15 goals in two and a half games! And secondly Alan Stroud played in goal for Rangers who is either 45 or 145 I can’t decide!

Rangers began the game in good heart, but Nomads began to turn the ‘screw ‘very quickly. Greg Feutz left his marker for ‘dead’ and drilled a shot past Stroudy  (1-0) Luke Petrie got clear of the Rangers defence shooting into an empty net (2-0). Rangers won a free kick; the shot was well saved by Jordan Buchanan (who was Stroudy’s understudy at Rangers). Luke Petrie shot straight at the keeper. Then Feutzy got clear of his marker again and scored from close range, (3-0). Dave Treganza unleashes a 20 yard thunderbolt to make it (4-0). The game was now a rout for the Blues. Rami Dawss joins the queue of Nomads players who wanted to score before half time, and slots the ball home (5-0).

In the second half, unlucky Luke Petrie had his ‘goal’ disallowed for off side. The rest of the game remained dead locked. Rangers target man Michael Berry went close, and Gavin Jeffs shot wide twice, but it ended in utter defeat for Rangers, while Nomads go top of the league on goal difference.

Game 2 Two Team Remain Unbeaten in Matson’s Premier Football League

By Gavin Searle

Nomads traveled to Nelson to hold out Suburbs 3 -1.

Ferrymead Bays and Nomads United are the only sides with a perfect record after two rounds. Nomads traveled to Nelson to hold out Suburbs 3 -1. Nomads picked up there first win over Suburbs, in Nelson with Greg Feutz giving his side the ideal start when scoring after three minutes. Gavin Jeffs then doubled the lead on the half hour with Ryan Batty adding a third immediately after the break. Suburbs Joses Nawo pulled a goal back with twenty minutes remaining but the Nomads win was never in doubt.

Game 1 23/03/07) Halswell United 1 Nomads United 2 (Played at English Park) .

A very hot day for a game of Footy! Halswell although swept aside at the Rangers tournament 3-0 by the Blues were not to be underestimated today. Indeed they proved that even with the loss of so many key players, Halswell can still play well.

The early stages were a stale mate. Nomad’s fans yelled their disapproval. The Blues were just unable to stamp their authority on the match. Halswell created a couple of half chances. A header failed to connect, and Jordan Buchanan made a reflex save from another striker. Then Nomads began to play. Greg Feutz saw aphis shot well saved. Then Jean Claude De Joux found himself one on one with the Halswell Keeper. Then calmly he slotted the ball home to make it (0-1). Feutzy again had a shot well saved. At last nomads are looking like last years team! An in form Jordan makes another good save, while at the other end Daniel Burns shot is saved well by the Halswell keeper.

 After the break, Nomads began to play with purpose. Feutzy had two half chances, before the game started to go flat. Halswell over ran our defence down the right flank. A good cross beat our defence and Dan Martin found an open net to shoot into. (1-1). The Blues rallied but Halswell’s defence held firm.  The heat seemed to wilt the players. Every one stopped for drinks. The ball ‘pinballed ‘in the Halswell’s area after the break, and somehow J C jumped out of his socks to nod home his second of the game! (1-2).

Great to start the new season with a win. See you on the side line. Ron Griffiths.  

Season Draw as at 15th March