ASFORDBY AMATEURS   2
HINCKLEY COLTS            2

Despite this being a home fixture Asfordby were forced to travel to Hinckley as caravans and dogs took precedence at Hoby Road.

With Ben Challis’s shoulder still not fully fit, Charlie Harris again donned on the gloves for the first half. Asfordby pressured from the off, but despite getting two early corners they were unable to capitalise. Shamus O’Neil put a ball into the box but Asfordby didn’t capitalise and Harrison Challis also chipped a good ball in but again to no avail. William Monk shot across goal was just wide of the far post. Charlie Harris goal kick released Reece Wood who rounded the defender but had his shot saved by the keeper. William Monk and Jimmy Fuller put good crosses into the box but neither Craig Kearney nor Shamus O’Neil were able to finish, however Kearney shot over from a corner. Kieran Doody, Josh Leach, George Barker and Harrison Challis cut out the Hinckley runners and fed good balls to the forwards, William Monk again shot wide and Reece Wood had a shot saved.

Asfordby changed keeper at half time with Josh Leach taking on the job. Regular keeper Ben Challis was put on the pitch up front and it was his pass in the box that Charlie Harris tapped in to open the scoring. Hinckley replied despite Josh Leach’s attempt to kick the ball clear. William Monk put in a good cross that Kearney shot wide. A pass from Ben Challis released Craig Kearney to a one on one with the keeper, Kearney held his nerve and Asfordby went ahead again. Asfordby continued to press for another, with Ben Challis twice testing the keeper. But again it was Hinckley who levelled despite the effort of Josh Leach and George Barker. Asfordby pressed forward again William Monk tried to chip the keeper but the ball floated just over, William Monk continually put good balls into the box but neither Reece Wood, Ben Challis or Craig Kearney were able to net the winning goal.

Team: C Harris, B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), A Challis, J Leach, H Challis, K Doody, H Marchington, William Monk, C Kearney, S O’Neil.

Royce Rangers           7
Asfordby Amateurs   2

With keeper Ben Challis out through injury, Charlie Harris donned on the gloves and put in a creditable performance, being called upon early in the game to make his first save to settle any nerves.  Asfordby had to work hard against a well drilled team. Jimmy Fuller, Declan McAuley and Reece Wood pushed forward and despite Josh Leach putting a good ball into the box they were unable to finish. Harris made more saves, and despite getting his fingers to a shot, he was unable to force the ball round the post and Royce were one up.  McAuley and Wood linked well and pushed forward but Royce netted another before half time.

Royce netted within 30 seconds of kick off and then a penalty put them 4-0 up. Despite some solid defending from Kieran Doody, George Barker, Aidan Challis and Harrison Challis Royce netted their fifth of the game.  A poor goal kick intercepted by McAuley, saw some good football follow by Wood and Craig Kearney ending with Wood forcing a save. McAuley forced a couple more before Royce netted yet another. A quick thinking Harris rolled the ball to Doody who with a fine cross found McAuley his pass to Kearney saw him round a defender and score a rewarding and deserved goal for Asfordby. Despite continued pressure from Kearney it was Royce who scored again. William Monk was skilful on the ball and supplied good balls into the area but no one was able to put the ball away. Leach denied Royce another with a great clearing header off the line following a corner, before at the other end a Fuller cross enabled McAuley to net another for Asfordby.

Team: C Harris, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), A Challis, J Leach, H Challis, D McAuley, K Doody,   H Marchington, W Monk, C Kearney

Lutterworth Athletic    2
Asfordby Amateurs      3

Asfordby dominated this game and had many opportunities to score more. Declan McAuley opened the scoring within the first few minutes when he superbly rounded the advancing keeper. Kieran Doody fired a shot on target that the keeper blocked and McAuley fired the loose ball over. William Monk and McAuley played some good one touch football and pressured the keeper, before long McAuley fired home another.  Jimmy Fuller fired a shot over before Josh Leach set up McAuley who forced the keeper to make a finger tip save, to deny him his hat trick.  Lutterworth pressured on a break, but thanks to the advancing Ben Challis they fired their shot into the side netting.  A poor clearance by Lutterworth enabled Leach to put the ball back in the box but Monk fired wide. McAuley got his hat trick with a powerful shot into the far corner of the goal.  Charlie Harris had his shot saved but Lutterworth pulled one back due to poor clearances in the box.  Harris made a good run and showed his skill by defeating two defenders and put a great ball into the box for McAuley but his shot was saved.

Asfordby didn’t start the second half well and were punished early on when Lutterworth pulled another back.  This speared the Asfordby defence on George Barker, Aidan Challis and Harrison Challis with the support of Doody, Leach and Harris kept Lutterworth away from the goal area, and keeper Ben Challis.  Harris, McAuley and Fuller constantly pressed forward and played some good football, McAuley fired wide and over, Fuller fired over and hit the post with a superb strike, before Harris hit the side netting.

Team: B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller(c), A Challis, J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, D McAuley, K Doody, H Marchington, W Monk, C Kearney.

Asfordby Amateurs       0
Loughborough Youth    1

William Monk ran well on the wing and put a great ball in for Craig Kearney but he was unable to finish. Reece Wood’s shot was fumbled by the keeper and Kearney was unable to beat the keeper to the loose ball.  Charlie Harris worked hard in the middle and put a good ball into the box but nobody was able to connect with it. George Barker was solid in defence with strong support from Aidan and Harrison Challis. Josh Leach switched play in the centre and fed Kieran Doody a good ball but it just ran away from him. Ben Challis had to make a double save from a well taken corner to keep Loughborough out.  William Monk and Harris played well, but very little pressure was put on the keeper until Doody forced a save.

Leach, Harris and Monk linked well and played some good football. A solo run from Loughborough forced Ben Challis to come out from goal to narrow the angle, but the striker beat him and Barker cleared the ball from the line, but Loughborough fired the ball into the back of the net from a very narrow angle.  Asfordby battled go get the equaliser, Doody and Shamus O’Neil linked well enabling Wood to have a shot on target. Good play by Monk enabled Wood to have another shot, but again this was saved. Kearney fired over from a corner, before Loughborough hit the post.

Team:  B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, A Challis, J Leach (c), C Harris, H Challis, K Doody, W Monk, C Kearney, S O’Neil.

Asfordby Lions        1
Stanton United        2

Jimmy Fuller had a shot stopped early on in the game. Good passing play between Declan McAuley and Fuller enabled Kieran Doody to have a great shot at goal that was saved by a stretching keeper. Fuller took the resulting corner, and on his first match since breaking his leg in November, McAuley headed the ball into the back of the net. On a break, the defence were unable to track back, quickly enough, and Stanton levelled.

Charlie Harris fired a shot on target, but somehow the advancing keeper cleared it with is head. At the other end Ben Challis saved a scrappy ball on the line to keep the match level. Reece Wood and Fuller both tested the keeper, but it was Stanton that took the lead after the ball bobbled around in the area and the defence failed to clear it away.

Asfordby’s passing play at times was impressive Doody, Wood and Fuller worked well together, as did Aidan Challis and William Monk, but more often that not the ball was floating around in the air on this windy day, going no where. Despite this McAuley and Monk had further shots on target. A solo run by McAuley also went unrewarded when the keeper collected his shot.

Team: B Challis, A Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, D McAuley, K Doody, H Marchington, W Monk, C Kearney, S O’Neil.

Countersthopre Athletic     1
Asfordby Amateurs             3

Asfordbys Jimmy Fuller and Reece Wood pressed forward from the whistle and when Wood was fouled in the box, it was Fuller who struck home a superbly taken penalty. Kieran Doody fired one wide, before Josh Leach fed a ball to Fuller who with William Monk passed through the Countersthorpes defence enabling Doody to get a shot on target, which the keeper was only able to block the ball fell for Harry Marchington who netted his first of the season. Fuller worked well in the middle and with Aidian Challis and Monk working the left and Wood and Doody the right they continually pressed forward, but the ball ran away from Wood down the slope and he fired his shot over. Fuller and Monk linked up again and released Wood whose shot across goal kissed the post.  Leach was solid in the centre of defence and was committed to his challenges, along with George Barker and Harrison Challis. Fuller and Monk both tested the keeper before Wood shot went under the keeper to make it 3-0. An off the ball foul on Fuller saw Countersthorpe down to ten men, just before halftime.

The second half saw Countersthorpe force Ben Challis into making a fine save at the base of the post. Asfordby seemed to lose their first half passion and were let off when Countersthorpe netted from an offside position. Countersthorpe found new drive and lobbed Challis to pull one back. The speed of George Barker in defence enabled him to clear away dangerous balls and stop Countersthorpe getting their crosses into the box. A controversial penalty awarded to Countersthopre was superbly saved by Challis. Half way through this half Asfordby found their mojo again Fuller skimmed the post and Monk fired wide. A great steal from Fuller went unrewarded when with no support he was unable to finish on his own.  Leach fired a shot at the keeper, the heavy pitch saw a Wood shot loose pace as it headed goal ward, and was collected. Asfordby finished the game in the same way they started but they were unable to increase the lead despite some great effort.

Team: B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), A Challis, J Leach, H Challis, K Doody, H Marchington, W Monk, C Kearney.

Stoneygate Lions        4
Asfordby Lions            2

The teams had already met twice this season, due to a cup tie, and with one win each both had something to prove today.  This game was end to end, Kieran Doody pressed forward, while Josh Leach and George Barker had to cut out the attacking forwards. Reece Wood hit the side netting and Ben Challis had to make a fine save.  Harrison Challis forced Stoneygate wide, but they opened the scoring from a narrow angle. They added another, on the break, when the Asfordby defence were unable to stop the attacking striker. Doody, Aiden Challis and William Monk linked well enabling Jimmy Fuller to have a shot on goal, but he fired it just wide. Wood latched onto a poor goal kick and was unfortunate that his shot went wide.

The start of the second half saw Stoneygate add another within the first minute, but Fuller cancelled it out when his first shot was fumbled by the keeper and he fired the loose ball in at the far post. Charlie Harris battled away constantly in midfield, a great run on the wing by Wood saw a shot across the goal curl into the back of the net.  Barker released Fuller who pressed forward with Harris but to no avail. H Challis and Doody cleared away the danger put upon them by the ever attacking Stoneygate, but they added a forth on the break. Asfordby continued to pressure A Challis put a good ball through to Fuller who played in Monk, who in turn found Craig Kearney in the box, but his shot, on the turn, was collected. Fuller was unlucky not to limit the deficit when a narrow angled shot looked to be sailing in at the far post but it just curled the wrong way at the last minute to deny Asfordby.


TEAM: B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), A Challis, J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblet, K Doody, H Marchington, W Monk, C Kearney.
 

ASFORDBY LIONS    1
ANSTEY SWIFTS      5

Asfordby battled well today, William Monk attached early after being released with a good ball from Josh Leach.  The defence of George Barker, Harrison Challis and Josh Leach, with support from Charlie Harris, Kieran Doody and Jimmy Fuller frustrated Anstey. With keeper Ben Challis advancing to block and narrow the angles, Anstey just couldn’t find the net.  William Monk had two great chances late on, in the half, one was collected and the other was just wide.

Anstey came out the stronger at the restart and after a goal mouth scramble tapped one in to break the deadlock. Shortly afterwards a, questionable, free kick from just outside the area gifted them another. Despite some great saves by Ben Challis two more goals followed before Asfordby were able to pull one back, when Fuller lifted a ball over the defence and it floated into the back of the net. Despite continuous pressure from William Monk, Reece Wood and Craig Kearney, Asfordby could not pull any more back and it was Anstey who netted again before the final whistle.

Team; B Challis, G Roberts, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, K Doody, H Marchington, W Monk, C Kearney, S O’Neill. 

Stanton    1
Asfordby  Amateurs 0


In their first game since mid December, Asfordby played good football today, with the bare eleven.
William Monk and Charlie Harris attacked from the whistle with Monk testing the keeper.  Stanton responded and forced a save from Ben Challis.  Asfordby’s defence of George Barker, Harrison Challis and Josh Leach, with Ben Challis in goal, were solid and kept Stanton out.  Good passing play between Reece Wood, Harris and Monk saw Asfordby pushing forward, but they just couldn’t get the final pass to count. A scramble in the box and an uncleared ball allowed Stanton to chip one in over the top of Challis just before half time.

 Asfordby come out with more passion and determination, in the second half. Jimmy Fuller was unlucky not to level the score when his free kick was stopped by the keeper.  Asfordbys defence were impassable, with Barker pushing all runners wide and Challis and Leach making some great blocks.  Good linking play by Wood, Harris, Monk and Craig Kearney kept Asfordby going forward and they will all feel unlucky not to have been able to pull one back and steal a well deserved point.

Team: B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, K Doody, H Marchington, W Monk, C Kearney.

Asfordby Amateurs Lions   0 v Barrow Town  6

Asfordby cup run came to an end and Barrow, showed why they are a division one side. Barrow attacked from the whistle and without some solid defensive tackles from Harrison Challis and some great saves by Ben Challis the score line could have been greater.  Lions were three goals down before they started to apply any great pressure on the Barrow defence.  Jimmy Fuller fired a free kick just wide but Lions went in at half time, without scoring and four down.

Barrow pressured from the restart, the Asfordby defence worked hard but Ben Challis still had to make some fine saves to keep the score line down. Barrow netted two in this half.

Team: B Challis, G Roberts, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, K Doody, H Marchington, W Monk, C Kearney.

Hinckley United Colts         1
Asfordby Amateurs Lions   9


Asfordby attacked from the whistle, Craig Kearney’s shot was tipped over by the keeper. Will Monk netted Asfordby’s first from a Jimmy Fuller corner. A scramble in the box saw Fuller net the second. A long shot from Fuller was dropped by the keeper enabling Kearney to tap in the loose ball, first three goals coming within five minutes. Fuller skimmed another one wide before Will Monk netted his second and Asfordby’s forth.  Ben Challis saved at the other end but an uncleared corner enabled Hinckley to pull one back. Josh Leach released Kieran Doody but this shot was collected, a pass across pitch by Doody enabled Fuller to net his brace before half time.

Doody had another chance but was denied by the keeper. Leach took a shot from midfield but had it blocked by a defender, Charlie Harris also had his shot saved. Challis had to make a block at the other end before a good run by Reece Woods enabled Doody to open his tally for the day. Woods continued to pressure and he was rewarded with a goal of his own after a solo run from half way. Leach released Doody for his second, Harris hit the post and Woods got his second soon after. Harris came away unrewarded when he fired over.

Team: B Challis, R Woods, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, K Doody, H Marchington, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney.

ASFORDBY LIONS 1 v RATBY  1

Asfordby started well with Kieran Doody putting a good ball into the box. Ben Challis made a save at the other end before Doody fired one wide. Asfordby’s defence were solid with Harrison Challis making some great blocks and last ditch tackles. William Monk and Reece Woods, with the support of Jimmy Fuller, Charlie Harris and Doody continually pressured the Ratby defence but they were unable to break through.  Ratby broke the deadlock when a floating ball was headed over the advancing keeper Challis.

The second half saw both teams battling well, the midfield of Josh Leach, Fuller and Harris were solid and constantly switched the play, Fullers free kick from just outside the area was fired over before Challis had to make a save at the other end. Charlie Harris netted the equaliser, after fooling the keeper to commit, one way, then just walking the ball around him.  Good play by Monk, Fuller and Harris enabled Craig Kearney to have a last ditch shot, but it went over.

Team: B Challis, R Woods, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, K Doody, H Marchington, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney, S O’Neill.

Anstey Swifts 9
Asfordby Lions 0
 
After the cup win last week Asfordby came down to earth with a bump against a very well drilled Anstey side. Asfordby found themselves down inside the first minute and despite pressure from Reece Woods and Charlie Harris, at the other end, Asfordby conceded two more in relatively quick succession, this could have been more but for some fine saves by Ben Challis. Anstey netted another, from a free kick before adding their fifth. Asfordby looked like breaking the rout when William Monk lobbed the keeper only to see the ball die and slowly roll towards the line, giving the keeper time to retreat and gather it up before the advancing Harry Marchington could reach it. Ethan Giblet cleared a ball from the line and Challis made more great saves. Lions settled and passed the ball well, enabling Josh Leach to have a long range shot but this was stopped by the keeper.
 
The second half saw Lions come out more competitive and Charlie Harris continued to battle and push forward with Reece Woods and William Monk. George Barker and Harrison Challis worked well in defence and with Jimmy Fuller they cut out many Anstey attacks. But lobs over keeper Challis saw them add two more. Lions continued to battle, the defence working well, supported by Kieran Doody, but they were forced to conceded deep throw ins and corners resulting in two more goals being added. William Monk shot across the goal mouth forced the keeper to make a finger tip save. Just out played today.
 
 
Team: B Challis, R Woods, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblet, K Doody, H Marchington, W Monk.

County Cup (Round Three)

Stoneygate lions   2                   Asfordby Lions  3     

In awful weather conditions both teams eventually started this match with the eventual  reward of progressing to round four of the county cup. The reward eventually fell to Asfordby and they had to work for it. Both teams were very well matched in the first half with Stoneygate taking the lead after some indecisive play in and around the box by Asfordby.
 
Asfordby soon equalised through McAuley but this was to be short lived as Stoneygate replied soon after and took the lead. Unfortunate miss-kick by the Stoneygate goalkeeper handed Reece Woods who reacted first to the ball to score a gift of a goal. half time 2-2
 
Asfordby started brightly and started to create a few more openings going forward. A good Fuller free kick swung into the box saw McAuley just stray off-side.
 
William Monk also found himself running clear on goal with defenders catching up,but his last touch failed him as he then ran the ball to the keeper.

Good work from the back and through the middle again presented McAuley with an opening which he ran through and buried his second for Asfordby to take the lead. Asfordby held out to the end but could have quite flattered themselves with a much higher score line as good clear goal scoring chances where wasted in the final third.
 
Unfortunate for Asfordby today as Declan McAuley picked up an injury to hs leg which was later to be discovered as an actual break. All at Asfordby F.C  wish him well and a speedy recovery.
 
Team: B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (C), J Leach, C Harris, E Giblett, D McAuley, K Doody,  S Dawe, W Monk, H.Challis

Asfordby Lions   1
Royce Rangers    4

Royce pressed forward from the start and caused the Asfordby defence problems all match. Good play by Reece Wood and Charlie Harris enabled Declan Mcauley to beat the keeper giving Asfordby the opener.  Royce attacked immediately and were denied by a disputed save on the line.  At the other end Jimmy Fuller had a chance to increase the lead, but his lob was just wide. Royce were gifted the equaliser when Lions failed to clear a loose ball, in the box.  They then took the lead a minute later from a well worked set piece.

Royce started the second half the stronger and Asfordby had very few chances. A penalty saw Royce increase the lead. The introduction of William Monk gave Royce problems, but Asfordby were unable to capitalise. Royce added another with a great curving ball. The score could have been greater but for some brilliant saves from Ben Challis.

Team: B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller, J Leach, C Harris, E Giblett, D McAuley, K Doody, H Marchington, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney

LOUGHBORO YOUTH  0
ASFORDBY LIONS        0

Ben Challis made an early save at one end and Jimmy Fuller pressured at the other. Good play by Josh Leach and Will Monk set up Reece Wood; who was fouled in the box, Fuller was denied the resulting penalty by the keeper. Leach released Charlie Harris who shot wide. Monk hit the cross bar and neither Fuller nor Harris could put the loose ball away. Harrison Challis and George Barker worked tirelessly in defence, Loughborough tried a long shot but it was collected by keeper Challis.  Lions had more chances to open the scoring, Kieran Doody had a one on one with the keeper but his shot was wide, and Harris put one in the side netting. A Declan McAuley header from a Fuller corner was also wide. A strong challenge on keeper Challis saw him leave the pitch with a head injury, Harris donned on the gloves for the remainder of the half.

Challis returned for the second half and was dominant having to make saves to keep Asfordby in the game. Leach hassled in midfield and with Craig Kearney they released Harris who was denied by the keeper. Shaun Dawes defended well and Lions fought hard against a very physical Loughborough side, but they could just not finish when the chances arose.

Team: B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, D McAuley, K Doody, H Marchington, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney.

ST JOSEPHS 95          2
ASFORDBY LIONS   7

St Josephs were first to attack, but their shot was fired over. A Jimmy Fuller free kick was returned by Charlie Harris and Fuller floated the ball into the back of the net.  William Monk and Fuller forced the keeper to make finger tip saves. St Josephs send long balls through to their forwards but Harrison Challis, Shaun Dawe, Ethan Giblett and George Barker dealt with them with confidence and the dominant keeping of Ben Challis kept St Josephs at bay. Wood and Monk both had chances to increase the lead before a bout of passing saw Kieran Doody net his first of the day. Asfordbys third came from an own goal deflected in from a Fuller corner. It was against the run of play that St Josephs pulled one back, just before half time.

Asfordby increased the lead early in the second half when, from a Fuller corner, Harris returned the ball and Fuller put a great cross into the box that Doody latched on to and netted his second. This speared Asfordby on with Craig Kearney and Reece Wood both adding goals each in quick succession. Harris had many shots on target but failed to beat the keeper. St Josephs continued to chases the game and pulled one back. Fuller, Harris and Wood all had chances to add more but it was Monk who netted the seventh.

Team: B Challis, G Roberts, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, K Doody, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney.

Asfordby Lions 1 v Lutterworth Athletic 1

At the start both teams looked evenly matched. Charlie Harris released Reece Wood whose shot was on target. At the other end Ben Challis had to make a save when Lutterworth broke through the back line. Wood and Harris both pressed forward and had chances, and defender Kieran Doody cleared a dangerous ball from the box. Good team work involving Craig Kearney, Harris and Wood saw the latter hit the crossbar.

Asfordby were dominant at the end of the first and start of the second half. Josh Leach released William Monk who put a great cross into the box but Wood shot just wide.  Wood created chances for Harris and Monk but eventually Wood broke the dead lock and netted his first for Asfordby. This speared the Lions on, a goal mouth scramble ensued after a Jimmy Fuller corner, where no one could find the back of the net, the ball eventually hitting the crossbar.  With time running out Lutterworth broke through and in a scramble in the box, secured the goal that stole 2 points from the unlucky Lions.

Team: B Challis, G Roberts, R Woods, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, E Giblett, K Doody, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney, S O’Neil, H Marchington.

Ratby    2 v Asfordby Lions 0

Lions Jimmy Fuller pressed forward and forced the Ratby keeper to make two early saves. Ratby settled and pressured the defence of George Barker, Harrison Challis, Ethan Giblet and Shaun Dawe. Ben Challis was forced to make a fine save when two players broke through the back line.  Ratby continued to pressure and before long they found the back of the net.  Asfordby’s Reece Wood, William Monk and Fuller had chances to level. A great goal kick from Challis released Charlie Harris, who was mighty unlucky not to score when his shot kissed the base of the post.

The second half saw great pressure by Wood, Monk and Harris but they could just not finish. Challis had to make a fingertip save to keep Asfordby in the game. Josh Leach tested the keeper with a long range shot, but Asfordby spent much of this half giving away and defending corners, Challis made some fine saves, but in the end a soft goal sealed the match on the final whistle.

Team: B Challis, R Wood, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett,
K Doody, H Marchington, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney.

Asfordby Lions 1
Stoneygate Lions 2

Better passing play enabled Kieran Doody, Declan McAuley, Jimmy Fuller and William Monk all to have scoring chances, but unfortunately none of them found the back of the net. A smart pass from Doody enabled McAuley to open this season’s campaign for the Lions.

At the start of the second half Stoneygate levelled, Lions battled well winning the majority of any 50/50 balls and looking the most likely to break the deadlock, with Doody, McAuley, Fuller and Charlie Harris all having chances. Against the run of play Stoneygate took the lead and, with time running out, despite all their efforts Lions could not find the deserved equaliser.

Team: B Challis, G Barker, J Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, D McAuley, K Doody, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney. Subs Not Used: S O’Neil, H Marchington.

Melton Foxes 5
Asfordby Lions 1

With new players, and little match practice, Asfordby struggled against a well drilled Foxes team.

Foxes opened the scoring early and continued to pressure soon adding a second. Lions were awarded a penalty which McAuley netted to put the Lions back in the match.

The Lions worked hard and held Foxes for the remainder of the half and well into the second, but a soft penalty to Foxes, gave them additional bounce and deflated the Lions, Foxes capitalised by added 2 more in quick succession.

Team: B Challis, G Barker, J Leach(c), C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, D McAuley,  K Doody, H Marchington, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney, S O’Neill

Harboro Town 8
Asfordby Lions 1

Goal: Charlie Harris
Man of the Match: Ben Challis

Team: B Challis, G Barker, Jimmy Fuller (c), J Leach, C Harris, E Giblett, H Marchington, S Dawe, W Monk, C Kearney, S O’Neil

Under 11s  Tyme & Day League Cup
Asfordby Amateurs  1 v Melton Foxes 3

Asfordby opened the start of the new season with a cup match against local rivals Melton Foxes, on a very blustery evening, and with only eleven players available for the game they knew they were going to have to work hard.  Liam Wright and Declan McAuley pressed forward early but McAuley had his shot collected.  Wright ran through the Foxes defence, from the half way line and slotted home the opener. Foxes equaliser came from an own goal during a goal mouth scramble following a corner. The game then became competitive end to end football, Lewis Hyde defending well and, Man of the Match, Ben Challis comfortably collecting Foxes shots. Despite this it was Foxes who increased the lead. At the other end Declan McCauley, after a solo unchallenged run only had the keeper to beat but sent it just wide.

The second half saw Asfordby down to ten men and after an early bought of pressure from McAuley, Wright and Jimmy Fuller they started to tire and found themselves having to defend hard. McAuley now found himself clearing balls of the line and only the quick reactions of Challis kept the score down. However a free kick enabled Foxes to add to the tally. New signing Shaun Dawe blocked a long range shot and Liam Wright was unlucky not to reduce the deficit when his shot hit the underside of the bar.  Despite the loss Asfordby played well in this opening game and should take away nothing but encouragement for the forthcoming league matches.


Team: B Challis, G Roberts, G Barker, J Fuller (c), L Wright, J Leach, L Hyde, D McAuley, C Robson, S Dawe, W Monk.
 

Asfordby Amateurs   1 v Ratby Sports 5


Ratby pressured from the off, but the defence of Gwilym Roberts, Eathen Giblet and Kieran Doody held solid. Lewis Hyde released Liam Wright with a lovely ball but his shot was just wide. Asfordby were defending hard and keeper Ben Challis had no chance when a shot ricocheted off an Asfordby player to gift Ratby the advantage. Ratby continued to pile on the pressure and had soon added a second.  Asfordby’s only goal came after a Jimmy Fuller corner was cleared back to him, enabling him to hook it in the back of the net.

The second half saw Asfordby have a chance to level, William Monk broke through but the keeper beat him to the ball. Ratby increased the lead from a corner and shortly after they had added another, and to add to the misery they added a fifth. Asfordby showed grit and still continued to battle on. Josh Leach released Liam Wright who fired just wide, as did Charlie Harris. Despite the continued pressure of Harris and Wright Asfordby could not reduce the deficit.


Team: B Challis, G Roberts, G Barker, J Fuller (c), L Wright, J Leach, E Giblett, L Hyde, C Harris, K Doody, C Robson, W Monk.
 

Groby Juniors  9             Asfordby Lions 2
 
This match saw  Asforby involved in a game of two completely different half's. Asfordby in the first half were completely dominant and took the game to Groby. Good run and shot by Jimmy  Fuller early on forced Groby keeper to make a save.

Lions continued to to compete and created more chances with Liam wright being a menace all match to the Groby defence. A long kick by Ben Challis enabeled Wright to latch on to the ball and run at their defence and score. Groby responded immediately with some good wing play and levelled the score to make it 1-1.

Groby started to pressure a little more after their goal and tested the lions defence of Shaun Dawe and Kieran Doody  Gwliym Roberts at left back, picked up an injury  and had to go off.

This saw the introduction of William Monk who came on and caused Groby a problem with his superb running ability which put Wright in for another chance on goal.
 
Lions were unfortunate to concede again and found themselves 2-1 down. Lions started to win the mid field battle with Josh leach and Lewis Hyde delivering some well thought out passes and George Barker putting in a good half by closing play down early. Lions continued pressure paid off after Charlie Robson had a shot deflected but came back for Declan McAuley to open his goal scoring account.

Half time 2-2 and Asfordby finish the half on top.
 
Second Half saw Groby totally dominate from start to finish. Groby took all their chances and continued to keep the Lions in their own half. Lions could not get out of their half to really create anything going forward.Grobys number two punished the Lions on the right wing all half with crosses into the danger area and scoring goals as well.

Some poor desicions by the ref did not help the end result, but Asfordby must remain positive and be pleased how they competed as a team in the first half.
 
Team-Ben Challis (GK), Gwliym Roberts, George Barker, Jimmy Fuller ( Cpt), Liam Wright, Josh Leach, Lewis Hyde, Declan McAuley, Kieran Doody, Charlie Robson, Shaun Dawe, William Monk.

Asfordby Lions 1  v   Quorn 3
 
Despite the scoreline, Asfordby put in a much better all round team performance today. First chance on goal fell to Liam Wright whos shot skimmed just wide of the post. Lions battled well in mid-field to win possesion and cancel out any early Quorn attacks. Jimmy Fuller was strong as was Declan McAuley in the middle who had to match Quorns big physical players. First clear chance of the match though  fell to Quorn who scored from the edge of the area. 0-1
 
Asfordby continued to press on with Charlie Harris running at the Quorn defence and carve out a chance for danger man Wright who put the ball in the back of the net only to have it ruled off-side. Quorn responded with a good strike on goal just going over the bar.
 
Lions continued to fight their way back into this game with Josh Leach now on for Charlie Robson. Defenders  Gwilyn  Roberts , Kieran Doody and Shaun Dawe had to remain focused towards the end of the first half as Quorn pressed on for another goal.A well taken corner forced Lions keeper Ben Challis to make a fine finger tip save. Half time 0-1 Lions well in the game.
 
Second half saw Quorn pressure from the start.Quorn won a corner and tricked Lions by playing the ball out to the edge of the area only to see the shot just go over the bar.  Quorn soon made their pressure pay and added a second goal. 0.2 Immediate response from lions with a Josh Leach through ball to Mcauley who shot just wide. William Monk came on and whipped in a fine cross after Harris had made another great run into the area.This found McAuley who had his shot saved by the keeper.Lions were getting closer to their reward and it came after good pressure around the box saw another Mcauley shot deflected for a corner. Upsteps captain Fuller and delivers a quality corner with the  ball going staight onto McAuleys head.Great finish 1-2.
 
Lions continued to work hard for their equaliser with George Barker and Lewis Hyde keeping the play moving forward. Great Mid field performance today by lions but  were unfortunate to conceed a free kick close to the end. Well taken free kick into the danger area saw Quorn score their third. 1-3 Asfordby wanted this game and kept Quorn in their half for the remainder of the game. Great chance fell to Leach on the edge of the area who saw his effort hit the woodwork. Harris who troubled Quorn with his running had chance on goal which came back and found McAuley who painfully had his shot cleared off the goal line.All Asfordby towards the end but unfortunatly ran out of time.

Much improved team performance today and Lions can look forward to the next match and build again.
             Well Done Lads.........
 
Team-Ben Challis (GK), Gwliym Roberts, George Barker, Jimmy Fuller ( Cpt), Liam Wright, Josh Leach, Lewis Hyde, Declan McAuley, Kieran Doody, Charlie Robson, Shaun Dawe, William Monk, Ethan Giblet, Charlie Harris.
 

Asfordby Lions U11's    1             Beaumont Town U11's   2
 
Asfordby tightened up for this game and their formation proved to be very effective.  Lions put in their best performance of the campaign so far with an impressive all round team performance.  As expected Beaumont Town started strong and forced corners early on which Lions dealt with confidently. Lions Defended strongly all match and pushed play forward allowing Jimmy Fuller to have a crack at goal, just going wide.  Liam Wright and William Monk also had good opportunities to open the scoring in this half, but again were unfortunate with their efforts. 

It was Town though who opened the scoring with a throw across goal taking a lucky deflection, 0-1.  Lions continued to soak up any Town pressure towards the end of the half and managed to keep the score down with some commanding goalkeeping from Ben challis and heroic goal line clearance from Kieran Doody. Half time 0-1.  Unlike Previous games Lions started the second half strongly and didn’t allow Town to force their game .Good wing play saw Wright with the chance to cross a good ball in only to see Charlie Harris have his attempt saved.  

Lions continued to battle in midfield and Declan McAuley had chances saved Town won a corner from which they scored, 0-2.  Lions picked up the tempo and put Town on the back foot for the remainder of the game. Josh leach held up play well and Lions pushed up winning a corner.  Up steps Captain Fuller again with a trade mark corner straight on to McAuleys head.  Great goal, 1-2.  Lions were very unfortunate not to equalize and take a point. A well balanced display from Lions today ...WELL DONE EVERYBODY.

Team:Ben Challis, Gwilym Roberts, Jimmy Fuller ©, Liam Wright, Josh Leach, Charlie Harris, Ethan Giblett, Declan McAuley, Kieran Doody, Charlie Robson, William Monk, Shaun Dawe
 

Mowbray Rangers    6 v Asfordby Amateurs  2

In a passionate local derby Asfordby pressured hard in the first half. Liam Wright had an early shot saved and Ben Challis saved a beak away attack from Mowbrays Luke Jane. Asfordbys constant pressure in the box was rewarded with numerous corners but they struggled to convert any, until a superb corner from Jimmy Fuller was headed on to the bar by Declan McAuley who slotted home the rebound. McAuley, Fuller, Wright and Ethan Giblett had chances to increase the lead but it was Luke Jane for Rangers who levelled the score. Asfordby still pressured hard with William Monk and Charlie Harris both having great opportunities going unrewarded.

The second half was a different story, it was Mowbray who came out dominant and floated the ball into the corner of the net, giving Challis no chance. Mowbray started to attack and before long had increased the lead. George Barker and Shaun Dawe assisted Challis by making goal line clearances but Mowbray added two more before a solo run by Fuller and a great shot pulled one back.  But it was too little to late and while Asfordby pushed forward Mowbray added another.

Team: B Challis, G Barker, J Fuller (c), L Wright, J Leach, C Harris, E Giblett, D McAuley, K Doody, S Dawe, W Monk.
 

Asfordby Amateurs        0
Loughborough Dynamo  0

Asfordby attacked hard from the start of this match. Jimmy Fuller and Josh Leach worked well in the midfield feeding good balls to Liam Wright, Charlie Harris and Declan McAuley. Wright was the first to test the keeper followed closely by Harris, after a lovely run from the half way line, but the keeper collected.  Harris, McAuley and Fuller all saw shots go wide.  The back line of Kieran Doody, Charlie Robson, Gwilym Roberts and George Barker were solid closing Loughborough down well.  Doody fed some great balls up field and with a pass on from Leach, McAuleys shot was blocked by the keeper.  Ben Challis made an impressive finger tip save to keep Loughborough out.  Just before half time Asfordby were awarded a free kick just outside the area, a great trade mark free kick from Fuller hit the cross bar.

The second half saw some good defending from Robson, Roberts and Doody. With McAuley pushing up front, Asfordby looked strong. A good ball from Eathen Giblett saw McAuley beat the advancing keeper only for the shot to hit the post, his desperate rebounding shot also found the woodwork.  Asfordby continued to press forward with Fuller, McAuley and Harris going close and Wright hitting the post.  At the other end Challis had to make a great last minute save to hold on to a draw in a game were the ball would just not go in the net.

Team: B Challis, G Roberts, G Barker, J Fuller (c), L Wright, J Leach, C Harris, E Giblett, D McAuley, K Doody, C Robson, W Monk.

Loughborough Dynamo 2                  Asfordby Lions 2
 
This return leg was billed to be another classic encounter between these two sides and it did not fail to deliver.  Great football by both sides again made it a very exciting game to watch.   First half dynamo tried hard to keep Lions squeezed in their own half but Lions worked well closing down and clearing any early threats.  First clear chance on goal fell to Lions Declan McAulay who painfully struck his shot wide.  Dynamo continued to press forward and test the Lions rear guard who again were on form and dealt with any danger.  Lions Jimmy Fuller sent Charlie Harris through on goal but good Dynamo defending prevented a clear shot on goal.  Dynamo probably just edged the first half with possession and got their reward with play around the box resulting in a goal.  Towards the end of this half a good interception by George Barker prevented Dynamo going Two up before the break.  Half time 1-0.
 
Good Half time talk saw Lions come out roaring and went straight on the attack.  It was Lions turn to squeeze Dynamo in their half and they got their reward with some great all round play leading to a goal from Harris. Everyone had raised their game and Lions looked like scoring again.  The old partnership of Kieran Doody and Liam Wright on the right wing was very effective and caused Dynamo a lot of problems.  It was a ball in from the right side of play which went across goal ,and after a few attempts on goal found William Monk who slotted home, well taken goal  1-2. Lions battled hard as ever to keep their lead and Josh leach worked well feeding balls up field to Fuller. Good end to end play made an exciting finish.  With time running out, Dynamo pressed for the equaliser and were lucky to get it against the run of play in the second half.  Dynamo tried for the winner but Ben Challis was at hand to comfortably collect a shot towards the end.  Final score 2-2    Great game!
 
Team- B.Challis, G.Roberts, G.Barker, J.Fuller (c), L.Wright, J.Leach, C.Harris, E.Giblett, D.McAuley, K.Doody, C.Robson, W.Monk

Asfordby U11s Lions 2 v Friar Lane & Epworth 8

Sunday saw the return fixture with top of the table Friar lane and Epworth, and although the teams were currently at either end of the table, the u11 lions were hoping for a change of fortune, following on from two encouraging draws with Loughborough Dynamo.

But a short way into the game the two week “lay off” for water logged pitches saw a ring rusty u11 lions struggling to get a foothold midfield and coming under increasing pressure in defence with only keeper Challis holding honours even.

At only 8 minutes friar lane had their first clean effort on goal, a well drilled midfield got the ball out wide only to see the firmly struck shot go over the bar, this was a warning of what was come!

A collision between Barker and Challis saw the ball go narrowly wide and resulted in another corner, the shot was saved again by an inform Challis.

After considerable pressure another corner was won by friar lane, the end result of the lion’s failure to clear their lines was a scrambled goal against them.

This seemed to spur the lions on a little, good work from Doody Harris, Fuller and McAuley resulted in nothing but frustration for the home team.

A substitution late in the half saw Dawe come into defence as a tactical shuffle of the back line.

At half time the lions were 0-4 to a well organised, physical friar lane. The two goals of note were; a 20 yard “wonder goal” struck hard from an acute angle and a penalty for a miss-timed tackle.

The change of ends saw Asfordby come out fighting, some good interlinked play between Leach, Harris, Wright and Fuller bore no fruit.

Friar lane replied to this early pressure by scoring three more goals including a volley from the edge of the area and a well worked short corner.

It could have been more had it there not been timely interceptions by Shaun Dawe and some stunning stops by Ben Challis.

A nasty collision between Josh Leach and a friar lane player brought about a debut for Harrison Challis and a swap around in midfield.

Shortly after that friar lane scored again, this spurred the lions to try and salvage something, a fierce right foot shot from McAuley found the net. Followed by another, courtesy of a quality pass from Wright to complete his brace.

All in all, a lesson in how to play football from the league heading side.

1 Ben Challis, 4 George Barker, 5 Jimmy Fuller ©, 6 Liam Wright, 7 Josh Leach, 8 Charlie Harris, 9 Harrison Challis, 10 Ethan Giblett, 11 Declan McAuley, 12 Kieran Doody, 14 Charlie Robson, 15 Shaun Dawe, 16 William Monk.

Friendly

Whetstone 1 v Asfordby Lions 0

Although it was only a friendly, Asfordby Lions attacked from the whistle and continued to compete vigorously throughout the 60 minutes.  It was end-to-end play where at one end Ben Challis pulls off a great save and Declan McAuley shoots wide at the other.  As the game settled, Asfordby midfield passed the ball well with Josh Leach, Jimmy Fuller and Kieran Doody holding firm.

Whetstone did, however, put the Lions under sustained pressure during the first half but the defence held well with Shawn Dawe, Ethan Giblet and Gwilym Roberts covering for each other whilst George Baker cleared twice off the goal line and made a heroic tackle just inside the box.  Charlie Harris, with his usual non stop energy, had some good runs down the wing but the Lions just couldn’t get the ball in the box.  Liam Wright on the other wing was causing problems for the Whetstone defence and some great passing play between him and McAuley almost paid dividends.  When Jordan Spencer came on he immediately made two strong tackles.  Asfordby Lions were playing in a new 4:4:2 formation that gave them a more solid look and they played with confidence.  Challis pulled off another fine save just at half time and the sides went in 0 – 0.

Asfordby started the second half with more pressure on Whetstone.  The forwards linked well and McAuley fed a great ball through to Liam Wright who brought Harris into play and just narrowly missed the goal.  Wright went off on a good run playing a one-two with McAuley and hit his shot just off target.  Harris went on another mazy run into the box but had his shot saved.  This sustained pressure should have brought a goal instead it was Challis who pulled of yet another great save at the other end to stop the Lions going behind.  Doody was solid in his new position and added support to a tireless Fuller and hard tackling Leach.

However, Whetstone had a great breakaway and scored an impressive goal against the run of play.  The Lions continued to fight back and be competitive and all played for each other showing great team spirit.  They played good football throughout the game lacking only in getting the ball into the goal area, which stopped them from scoring.

With a minute to go Ben Challis pulled off a third excellent save to keep it at 1 – 0 which flattered Whetstone but the Lions are on the march!


Team: Ben Challis, Gwilym Roberts, George Barker, Jimmy Fuller (c), Liam Wright, Josh Leach, Charlie Harris, Harrison Challis, Eathan Giblett, Declan McAuley, Kieran Doody, Shaun Dawe, Jordan Spencer. 
 

ASFORDBY LIONS GET THEIR FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON OVER LOCAL RIVALS RANGERS AND MOVE OFF THE BOTTOM OF THE TABLE.

Asfordby Amateurs         1
Mowbray Rangers           0

Asfordby took on local rivals Rangers with only the bare eleven players, available.  But they were not fazed by this and the midfield of Jimmy Fuller, Josh Leach and Kieran Doody were solid. An early foul on Leach gave Lions a free kick, Fullers shot was on target but Mowbray’s Woods collected.  Mowbray’s attacks were spoiled by the Lions defence, Harrison Challis and Charlie Robson clearing away any long balls and keeper Ben Challis was on top form stopping a shot from Tommy Harris. 

Harrison Challis fed a long ball up to McAuley and when he was brought down in the box, Fuller stepped up to take the resulting penalty, and fired it home. With the wind in their favour Lions were continually able to play long balls up front to Liam Wright, Charlie Harris and McAuley. A perfect pass from Leach to McAuley sent him on a run towards the advancing keeper but they collided, McAuley regained his footing and slotted home the ball only to have it disallowed. Rangers pressured but they were unable to find the back of the net, it was Lions who won all the scrappy balls in the box, thanks to strong play from George Baker, Ethan Giblet., Harrison Challis and Robson. Good play in the middle by Leach enabled Harris, Wright and McAuley to have shots but nothing over stretched the keeper.  Wright was unlucky not to increase the lead when he broke free and ran half the pitch only to shoot just wide.  Ben Challis made a great save from a Luke Jane shot just before half time to keep the advantage.

The second half Mowbray had the wind in their favour and came out strong, but Lions dug in and played deep, defending hard and strong. Fuller, Leach and Doody kept the ball in midfield and would not give Mowbray room to play. Doody put some great crosses into the box but today Asfordby’s McAuley, Wright and Harris could not capitalise on them.  Mowbray attacked hard but Asfordby defended harder, despite numerous corners, Mowbray could not get the ball past keeper Challis. At the other end McAuley fired a shot just wide as did Mowbray’s Harris in the dieing minutes.

A GREAT TEAM DISPLAY TODAY AND WHAT A GREAT FEELING TO WIN A GAME. (Especially this one)

 WELL DONE TO YOU ALL

Team: B Challis, G Barker, J Fuller (c), L Wright, J Leach, C Harris, H Challis, E Giblett, D McAuley, K Doody, C Robson.

Allexton New Park 4              Asfordby Amateurs Lions 2
 
Lions looked to build on their recent success at Allexton today and indeed started very brightly.  Good work all round saw Lions contain second from top Allexton in the early stages.  Lions were winning the battle in midfield and looked the most likely team to score at this stage.  Allexton pressed forward and started to threaten the Lions goal only to have keeper Ben challis at hand to make some comfortable saves.    Allexton poured forward with another attack only this time after a few attempts, opened the scoring 1-0.  An immediate response from Lions with some good build up play from Fuller, Wright and McAuley who then went on to bury the ball from distance in the back of the net, great goal 1-1. Lions looked liked getting another and with the back line holding firm, it allowed Lions to build again.  Josh Leach held up well allowing Harris, Wright and Doody to move forward giving McAuley another run at goal.  McAuley had it all to do with support coming up from behind he took his chance and scored another great goal from distance 1-2 game on.....

Lions continued to press towards the end of the first half  but were unfortunately caught out with some quick running and movement from Allexton which led to a cheap goal towards the end of half time, 2-2.  Allexton truly rattled at half time.  Second half saw Allexton come out just a little sharper than in the first and put Lions straight on the back foot. Ben challis was called into action early on and stood his ground well with some fine saves.  It was a couple of balls over the top which enabled Allexton to get in behind Lions and go on to score two quick goals. Lions as ever continued to play and build again.  Only real attempt for Lions on goal in this half came from danger man McAuley who this time shot  over the bar.  Another good performance today from Lions who might be a little disheartened from a game where they deserved to take a point.

Team B.Challis(G.K) , H.Challis , C.Robson , G.Barker , S,Dawe, J.Leach , K.Doody , D.McAuley , J.Fuller (C) , L.Wright, C.Harris , J.Spencer , W.Monk , G.Roberts.

Ratby   3 v Asfordby Amateurs 3


Liam Wright and Declan McAuley pressed forward early but it was Ratby who had the first clear shot on goal but sent it wide.  With Wright, McAuley and Charlie Harris pushing forward Kieran Doody fired a shot at goal, with the keeper tracking back Liam Wright covered the ball ensuring it crossed the line. A long free kick from Ratby sailed over the Lions standing defence and fortunately keeper Ben Challis saved the shot from the unmarked striker.  A solid tackle by Gwilym Roberts saw him have to leave the field injured and George Barker & Charlie Robson had to work extra hard to keep Ratby out, despite their hard work Ratby levelled with a great shot from outside the box.  Charlie Harris was releasing good balls for McAuley and Wright and he got his rewards when he slotted home from a Jimmy Fuller corner.  Lions continued to push forward but Ratby were quick on the break, thankfully Barker was able to match their speed and force them wide, but Challis had to make some great saves to keep the Lions advantage.  McAuley sent Wright on a run but he was crowded out and nobody was able to connect with a good cross by Fuller.

The second half was end to end football, Wright pressed forward and Doody fed a ball to McAuley, but it was Ratby who scored first to equalise.  Asfordby pushed forward to regain the advantage but got caught out and again Ratby scored to take the lead.  Asfordby battled on with Josh Leach slowing the play in midfield and Shaun Dawe clearing away dangerous balls on the wing. Doody released McAuley who ran round the defenders and netted the equaliser.  Lions continued to push forward, Fuller had a shot collected and McAuley and Wright kept the keeper busy but Lions were unable to find the winning goal.

Team: Ben Challis, Gwilym Roberts, George Barker, Jimmy Fuller (c), Liam Wright, Josh Leach, Charlie Harris, Ethan Giblett, Declan McAuley, Kieran Doody, Charlie Robson, Shaun Dawe, William Monk.

McAULEY NETS ALL FIVE FOR LIONS

Beaumont Town    4 v Asfordby Lions     5

In the penultimate game of the session Declan McAuley pressured both of Beaumont’s keepers all match. George Baker was solid in defence and cleared away the danger from an early corner. A well drilled Beaumont were quick and passed fluently thus resulting in a great long range shot sailing in over keeper Ben Challis. Jimmy Fuller had a shot parried over the bar. Kieran Doody fought well in central defence and supplied a great ball to Liam Wright, whose shot was fumbled by the keeper but Lions were not on hand to finish.  Despite a solid tackle by Shaun Dawe and an advancing Challis, Beaumont added their second.  From the restart Declan McAuley saw an opening and pulled one back.  Lions continued to pressure, William Monk had chances, Fullers shot went wide and Josh Leach’s was collected by the keeper, but McAuley found the net again, to level the game. Asfordby piled on the pressure with Liam Wright passing to McAuley who sent it just wide.

The second half saw Lions come out stronger and continued to pressure.  A Fuller cross put McAuley on a one to one with the keeper, who got a hand to it, Liam Wright collected the loose ball but fired it into the side netting.  Asfordby conceded corners but the defenders of George Barker, Shaun Dawe, Ethan Giblet and Kieran Doody were able to clear them with support for keeper Challis. A good ball fed from Leach allowed McAuley to score his hat trick, another shot was fumbled and McAuley was on hand to finish and bag his forth. Beaumont changed keeper and he was called upon to make a great save from a powerful McAuley shot, but it wasn’t long before McAuley fired home his fifth. Liam Wright was unlucky not to snatch one when his shot went just wide. A poor defensive decisions allowed Beaumont to pull one back, this speared then on and Challis had to make a great save, but Lions cur came again when a mazy run through the field went unchallenged and Challis could not stop it.  Beaumont were pressing hard, but thankfully they could not find the back of the net, before the final whistle.

Well played Lions, great determination shown to go from 2-0 down to 5-2 up, before allowing Beaumont to score twice to make it a very nervy finish.


Team: Ben Challis, George Barker, Jimmy Fuller (C), Liam Wright, Josh Leach, Charlie Harris, Ethan Giblet, Declan McAuley, Kieran Doody, Shaun Dawes, William Monk.

Asfordby Amateurs 1       Groby Juniors 3
 
The Lions played out their final game of the season today and were looking to finish on a high note. The match started at a high tempo with both sides competing well early on.  As the first half progressed, Groby found their stride and started to pressure the Lions and win the ball in the centre of the park.  Lions struggled to get hold of the ball in order to create any build up play of their own and were forced into playing a more defensive game.  Groby gave a warning with a thunder strike from the right wing, just going over the bar.  Groby's continued pressure and balls into the area paid off as they went on to score two goals before half time.

Second half saw Lions compete a little better but they still struggled to create any clear cut chances going forward.  Groby took further advantage and soon found themselves three goals up.  Goal keeper Challis was kept busy in this half and did very well to keep the scoreline respectable. .Later on in the half, Jordan Spencer was fouled and a free kick was awarded .Jimmy Fuller got a chance to hit one from just out side the box. Fuller struck the ball well forcing the goal keeper to make a finger tip save.  Lions pressed on towards the end and when the ball found Kieran Doody on the right, he managed to thump the ball back in at height and lobbed the keeper for a late consolation goal. Good marshalling by Fuller made sure the ball had crossed the line.
 
Final score 1-3.

Team:  B.Challis, E.Giblett, S.Dawe, G.Barker, H.Challis, J.Leach, J.Fuller ©, L.Wright, C.Harris, K.Doody, W.Monk, J.Spencer