Saturday 28th July 2007

Playing in this friendly against newly promoted Premier side Hawksmill, Hodgie was duly pleased with some fine performances from both young and mature alike. Goals by Leigh Francis, Paul Davies and Trevor Knight, the latter being the winner with a brilliant individual effort, demonstrated the value of early training with the OBs coming on strong late into the game to snatch a well-earned victory. It was good to see McCarthy return to the fold along with newcomer Wetherall.

Saturday 1st September 2007

Coundon Court Resrves 4 Brinklow 6
Leading 3-0 and coasting, a flabby disorganised, second half collapse did not start the season as we all had hoped. But it was perhaps just the kick up the backside the club needed. However, the performance of young Kettle scoring a brace of goals along with a penalty from newly-wed Trevor Knight and Isherwood suggested there are more goals to come.

Coundon Court 0 Collycroft 1
Playing away in this Divisision One clash for the first time in many years against Collycroft was another disappointment. Against a well-organised Collycroft team, the OBs played with spirit but little finesse tending to panic rather than play studied football of which they are capable. Consequently, there were few chances created fior the two forwards who were starved of good ball and scoring opportunities. A diverted kick was the only score. Phil Knight came through the game with some credit inan undistinguished performance which frustrated both the players and managers.

Thursday 5th September 2007

CCOBFC 0 Alvis 5
Playing away again, the OBs hoped to erase the memory of an unfortunate defeat against Collycroft. But it was not to be. Early signs gave some optimism with good work by the team playing collectively and taking on individual responsibility. But from the first goal within ten minutes from a fast, and direct Alvis squad, the OBs conceded two further goals within a matter of minutes and the game was lost.Erratic,sloppy passing combined with slow responses increased the spexctators' disbelief that talented individuals should play so naively. Two slapstick goals iin the second half and a total of four bookings combined to make this a gloomy evening but the spirit is there and the heart and perhaps these qualities will serve to bring the victories which seemed online in the pre-season friendlies.

CCOBFC Reserves 1 Dunlop 1
A most encouraging display by the Reserves enabled this young squad to snatch a well-deserved draw at Burnaby Road. A well-taken goal by Danny Kettle in the second half
was only what the team warranted with their hard work and no little skill. This augurs well for the rest of the season.

Saturday 8th September

CCOBFC 0 Potters Green 2
Playing away again, the OBs put on a much better performance. With Weatherall in defence along with Casey and McGregor, all seemed more solid and confident. The midfield was more creative with Frankie Bennett revelling in his more suited role. Up front Francis welcomed Martin to partner him.
The game tuned out to be another steep learning curve showing that Division One of the Alliance is both competitive and quality highlighting so far that at least two of the teams played so far are better than many of the Premier sides played againsty last season.Potters Green are a big side, diect and skilful in a bnumber of areas.The OBs coped with their constant attacking and hefty pace. But two moments of indecision when the team was incomprehensibly caught off guard proved to be the OBs' downfall. The second goal within seconds of the restart was the killer blow and although the OBs pressed to get back i the game, it was to no avail. But there were highly promising performances especially from Weatherall at the back who moved into the centre of defence with captain Casey's injury; his goal-saving tackle to prevent a third goal was outstanding and a measure of his quality.
Kettle's display too for one so young provided considerable optimism along with Coleman's introduction - a quality player here.
In this division there is no time on the ball as in the Premier. It's direct , fast and often furious. We have the players to cope.

CCOBFC Reserves 1 Christ the King 4
In spite of Miles' heroics in goal and Nevis' fine goal the Obs were no match for a strong and young Kings' side who were in control for much of the game against a battling OBs.

Saturday 15th September

CCOBFC 2 Christ the King 3
With confidence low afrer three defeats and languishing in bottom spot, the OBs were badly in need of points. But again it was not to be. Without the injured caset, and with experienced players Cag and Bennett on the bench thjere seemed little leadership on the pitch and no vocal passion. A goal down in the first half it looked like last week's result fwould be repeated but Leigh Francis constant running was rewarded with a fine individual goal which he fully deserved. This impetus spurred the OBs on and Isherwood, playing in ther new position of left back scored a cracking goal with his trusty left foot to put the OBs 2-1 up. But immeidiately on the restart a hopeful lob by Kings deceived the OBs' keeper who fumbled the ball unbelievably into his own net. Confience was dashed and with the sending off of Knight after two booked tackles, the inevitable happened when Kings lashed home their third goal. The introduction of Bennett and Cag steadied the ship but hopes had already sunk. However, hope springs eternal. There were the OBs' first goals scored in a game of missed chances.

Saturday 2nd September 2007

CCOBFC 8 Copsewood 1
We always believed that we had the players to cope with Alliance Division One. It was therefore all the more gruelling to witness three consecutive opening defeats. But this stunning victory over Copsewood (Marconi) on their notoriously slopping pitch was therefore long overdue and restored the manager's and indeed the players' confidence.
With Miles promoted into goal after disappointing displays by Evans, and Weatherall, McCarthy and Verg McGregor in defence along with new left wing back Isherwood, the team sensed a new strength especially with the return of captain Matt Casey. Playing in an unaccustomed position of midfield Casey teamed up with Steve Coleman ,Knight and Danny Kettle to form a tough tackling, fast and creative midfield. With experienced danger man Martin upfront partnered by gazelle Francis this looked a balanced side. And so it was to prove. 2-1 up at half-time after a superb series of saves by Mutley in goal, the OBs began to go into full throttle. Fine goals from Coleman - his first for the club- and Bluey - to his relief-
were followed by a devastating hat-trick by Leigh Francis fully deserving his accolade as the black panther . But up stepped evergreen Frankie Bennett, veteran of many a battle,
experienced in the art of defence and the many subtleties of attack,Frankie's unique hat-trick coming off the bench proved the old adage that there is no head like an old head.Each goal is worthy of comment: A chip of delicate direction, a glancing header with deadly precision, a flighted volley that curved with Beckham-like spontaneity. Modestly after the game he commented," I did it for the lads. I might be edging towards the early thirties
but there is no substitute for my sort of experience. I have never felt fitter, more motivated or enjoyed my football more. let's hope we keep it up....".

CCOBFC Reserves 1 Jag Daimler 5
Manager Hemmings felt he had selected a strong side and on paper they were. It was a good first half performance with Penny scoring to make it 2-1 but in spite of all Paul Jones could do in goal Daimler proved to be by far the better side deserving their comprehensive victory.

Saturday 29th September 2007

CCOBFC 2 Triumph 10
After last week's result this sudden and dramatic slump came as a surprise. Without Martin for this CET Challenge Cup-tie the ten goals conceded are something that is beyond credibility. How can a team which has good players and a team spirit lie down and let in 10 goals? There has never been a result of such proportions in twenty-seven seasons. And the reason? A mystery. A one- off. Let's hope so. Francis and Settle scored.

CCOBFC Reserves 3 MS Sports 4
With young Knox in goal making his debut and 1-1 at half time the team was looking good to take at least a point. With fine golas from Jones, Dennis and a superb free kick from Craig Coleman this was the least the team desrved but it was not to be. Manager Hemmings however saw the positives in the performance and looks forward to better things.

6th 0ctober 2007

CCOBFC Reserves 8 Woodlands
A magnificent display of quality passing and scoring saw the OBs annihilate a formidable Woodlands squad with trevor Knights nettting FIVE (yes FIVE)times to create a CCOBFC scoring record. With twin Phil getting a brace and newcomer Dennis McGinley maintaing his scoring sequence, manager Mick Hemmings was delighted commenting that all the hard work had been worth it.


13th October 2007

CCOBFC Reserves 0 Witherley 1
Christening the new pitch at the Covents and facing the runaway leaders of the division was a fitting reward for this young and spirited side. It was impressive to hear Mick Hemmings' pre-match dressing room talk. Encouraging and detailed, Mick stressed the responsibility of each player supporting the other and highlighted each indiovidual player's role. The team listened attentively aware that Mick was both experienced and could certainly play a bit himself. This was followed by a warm-up which Mick led and which the players carried out with considerable enthusiasm. Clearly the players respect Mick. There is a structutre in their play, there is little moaning and there is considerable encouragement.
David Knox is still at school but clearly the Knox genes have been passed on to him. He throws as well as his illustrious father and kicks equally well too. His safe pair of hands and command of the area give confidence to the team. With Casey a powerhouse of running and no little skill suported by a hard-working defence and a creative midfield in which Finn worked tirelessly, the OBs easily held the league leaders. It was unfortunate therefore that Paul Jones missed two open goals misdirecting his headers and lightning fast Dennis McGinley was not rewarded for his all-action enthusiasm. One error proved costly which Witherley seized upon to go one up - and gain a victory they did not deserve. However, the signs are very positive . Hemmings is an experienced player and clearly a manager of considerable potential who has the respect of the players. The team reflects his attitude - enthusiastic and sporting. This augurs well for the future of CCOBFC.

CCOBFC 2 Peugeot 5 CUP
With a number of players missing, the OBs were however 2-1 up in the first twenty minutes with goals from Trevor Knight and Sean Kettle. But defensive frailties in the second half proved costly on the notoriously sloping pitch to prove the OBs' downfall.

Wednesday 24th October 2007

CCOBFC 7 Fillongley 1
Without key players again, the OBs nevertheless scored a fined victory in this Foleshill Cup match with another fine performance by Trevor Knight with a well taken hat-trick and further goals from 1st. team debut boy Dennis McGinley (2) and Sean Kettle.

CCOBFC Reserves 2 Whitnash 3

Saturday 28th October 2007

CCOBFC 1 Brooklands 2
CCOBFC Reserves 1 AEI Rugby1
With so many players unavailable, the managers were facing an almost impossible task to field two teams of quality. With full sides there is no doubt that both side would have claimed points, but with uncommitted,experienced players going awol, such lack of responsibility is both reprehensible and inevitably lets the club and its members down.
With the 1st. team playing their first home game of the season on the new pitch and with the attendance of the league's ground committee it was important to put on a good show. But it was not to be.In spite of all their efforts, two appallling goalkeeping errors was the difference between the sides.
The Reserves put on a brave show with a depleted team against the bottom club in the division.

3rd November 2007

CCOBFC Reserves 2 Collycroft 1 CET JUNIOR CUP
Playing against a strong Collycroft squad that are two divisions higher and in the same division as the 1st. team, the OBs put on a great display. With Hemmings and Stansfield solid in defence along with a lively Phil Knight and a tenacious Mike Gillen, the midfield led by wily Mick Bhara created a series of chances which belied their underdog status. Two goals one from man of the match Bhara running from half way to beat a retreating defence and score with a riffling shot and another from nippy Ian Gayton enabled the OBs to maintain momentum thoughout this tense game. The visitors however pulled one back at the beginning of the second half and consistently attacked an OBs' defence which showed signs of tiring, but key substitutions held the day with veteran Tom King typifying the spirit of this ever improving team which did the club proud.

Saturday 10th November 2007

CCOBFC 3 Coventry University 2
Under new manager and old boy Steve Taggart, the OBs discovered a rare winning formula which could be the foundation of a successful season. Playing for only the second time on the new Coventrians' pitch and against a youthful, fit Coventry Uni side, the Obs fielded an interesting and promising team. Miles kept his place in goal, Casey and Weatherall team up in the centre of defence with Steve Haymes makinig a welcome return to left back. They wre more of match for the fast Uni forwards and with the tough tackling midfield of Knight, Bhara and Kettle the OBs caused persistent problems asking all the questions. Most impressive was the form of the Sean kettle and rookie Green in attack. The latter is your traditional centre-forward. Physically strong, full of running, a good header of the ball and possessing excellent control. His partnership with the fast-running and skilful kettle was thje key to this victory. The OBs winning goal came from |kettle who weaved his way through the defence
with consummate ease to fire home a superb goal. In between, a debut goal from green and another from Bhara after a fine corner from Trevor Knight made up for conceding from two free kicks which easil;y beat Mutley in goal.
Therewere excellent performances all round with captain Casey again outstanding along with dave Weatherall and of course the evergreen Rosie.
Wel ldone Steve Taggart on your first managerial game for the OBs!!

Cov Uni 2 CCOB Res 1
Playing a Cov Uni side that were on a roll we knew we were in for a battle. Both teams had chances early on but the break through finally came for the University side approx 10 mins before the break. After a grilling at half time by assistant manager Steven Gately CCOB's resumed putting pressure on the University side. 10 minutes in and a long free kick into the box by player manager Hemmings found the head of Daz Mohan who played in Dennis McGinley to score a well taken and deserved goal.
McGinley again came close with a great effort that hit the post, luck evading us yet again.
Cov Uni finally got the winner after approx 80 minutes.
We felt a draw would have been a fair result.

17th November 2007

CCOBFC 2 Hartshill 6
Rushing to the match and with the added problem of missing players was no preparation for this second round tie against Hartshill. With manager Taggart as the only sub , problems increased when keeper Mutley was carried off with severely damaged ribs and latter internal bleeding confirmed at the George Eliot hospital where he was kept overnight. Up until then the OBs competed well with Davis and Kettle scoring but from then on it went downhill.

CCOBFC Reserves 1 Highway 5
It was owing to the tremendous work of substitute manager Gillen that the game went ahead. His entrhusiasm and hard work getting a team together, opting to keep goal and generally showing a positive example, was the sort of character that was sadly lacking in those members who failed to show. Without Manager Hemmings and Coach McGranaghan it was always going to be an uphill task and so it proved with King scoring the only goal. However it was good to see the return of Rushton and a fine penalty save from the sub goalie/manager/ coach and inspiration Gillen!!!

24th November 2007

CCOBFC 2 Folly Lane 2
Coming away with a point from Folly Lane is always an achievement but two nil down and with Casey unavailable along with long-term absentees Coleman and Danny Kettle, it was a measure of the team's character to fight their way way back. It was also a 1st. team debut for young David Knox in goal who had a fine game between the sticks bringing off some outstanding saves and displaying exemplary confidence in one so young.He kept the OBs in the game and along with man of the match Phil Knight put a smile on manager Taggart's face. It was equally a welcome return for Rushton back after a long lay-off who was promoted to the 1sts,. and did himself no harm with an encouraging performance. After Knight had hit the post Rushton lashed the ball into the net and Bhara sealed the point with a subtle lob over the keeper.

CCOBFC Reserves 3 Fillongley 1 Boyd Carpenter Cup
The Reserves had a welcome victory over higher league opponents to move into the last eight of this prestigious cup competition. The Obs started slowly but after 15 minutes began to impose themselves against a strong Fillongley 1st. team two leagues above.Missed chances by both teams took the game into the second half and with the wind behind them the OBs took the lead with the lively McGinley taking his chance with a fine individual goal. But with tow minutes to go Fillongley took advantage of slack marking to score an undeserved equaliser. Into extra time and almost on the restart veteran Tom King put the OBs 2-1 up with a superbly acrobatic shot which rocketed intio the net. Minutes later after continual OBs pressure McGinley raced into the box to be brought down. His cool penalty made it 3-1.The COUNDON spirit and superb defending throughout especially be the OBs keeper carried Coundon forward to a well deserved victory.

1st December 2007

CCOBFC 5 Mount Nod Highway 4
Forced into this fixture the OBs werre again without Casey, Coleman and Danny Kettle but nevertheless Trevor Knight returned to prove to be a fine replacement as sweeper with Williams also having a promising game at right back. Playing three at the back did not have the impact desired so changing to 4-4-2 gave the PBs more balance aganist a young,mobile squad. An exciting game was made all the more tension packedwhen young Knox proved his potential yet again with a penalty save at 4-3. Rushton2, Crean 2 and Stewart were the scorers.


CCOBFC Reserves 0 Kenilworth Town 5 CET Cup
Playing against Combination side Kenilworth Town proved to be too much for this young squad up encouintering this Birmingham collection. Only 1-0 down at the change and with Phil Knight in goal, thje OBs were devstated in the second half conceding goals in quick succession and letting their heads drop alarmingly.

15th December 2007

CCOBFC 1 Booklands Jag 0
In spite of further absentees namely Casey, Weatherall, and Coleman, this was an encouraging team effort and the OBs fully deserved their hard won victory and indeed could have won by far more had chances been converted. With Rushton doing well and newboy Dean Falconer returning to the fold, the OBs could have been three up at least at half time. But a fine goal by crean was enough to secure a vital victory and hopefully take taggy's team optimistically into the new year.


CCOBFC Reserves 2 Christ the King 6
The OBs performance looked fairly promising in the first half with goals by Davis and the evergreen King but a younger, fitter side overran the team in the second half with Jones gallant in goal against such an onslaught.

28th December 2007

CCOBFC RESERVES 0 The Hub 3 Boyd Carpenter quarter final
In spite of determined pressure especially in the second half, the OBs' performance
was reflected in the weather - chilly, windy and without passion. Hoofing the ball rather than passing to feet and hopeful punts up the field created nothing and made it easy for the Hub midfield to create good ball and win the ball nine times out of ten.So it was an opportuntiy missed.

5th January 2008

CCOBFC Reserves 3 Jag/Daimler 7
With goals by Trevor Knight (2) and veteran Tom King the OBs were however suffering from a bout on New year blues and were easily and embarrassingly defeated by a keener, brighter squad with manager Mick Hemmings looking on bemused.



2nd February 2008

CCOBFC 4 Coventry Colliery 1
This was a welcome result with the OBs moving up one place in the Alliance Dvision One.
Of particular note was the return to goalscoring form of Dean Falconer with a well-taken brace from a headed goal and using his speed rounding the keeper to fire home. Celebrating his return to the team with a goal was Mark Bhara who has been missed in recent weeks. It was pleasing too for Trevor Knight to score from the penalty spot and manager Taggart must be pleased with the continued goalkeeping prowess of of Dave Knox who brilliantly saved a penalty.


CCOBFC Reserves 2 Dunlop 10
This was a superb Dunlop team with quality players throughout who could play at a much higher level. Essentially it was felt time to blood youth and as it turned out it was a dramatic baptism... literally men against boys whose inexperience was exposed but whose attitude and never-say-die spirit was admirable thoughout.

9h February 2008

CCOBFC 3 Ambleside 0
In spite of an under par performance this was nevertheless an outstanding victory against top of the league side Ambleside. So with two good recent wins against high-riding squads, the team has started to assume quite a reputation for playing attractive football complemented by a gritty defence. Indeed the defence in the shape of Haymes, Craig and Gareth Coleman were outstanding, the latter saving a certain goal with a miraculous clearance. With Knox increasingly influential in goal for his safe handling and good positional sense, the Obs were two up in the first ten minutes with fine goals by Gareth Mince Coleman and midfield general Phil Kinght. There was an expected onslaught in the first twenty minutes of the second half but the OBs weathered the storm and another goal by Phil Knight finally settled this important contest and yet again gave Manager Taggart
cause for increasing optimism and consolidation in Division One.

CCOBFC Reserves 2 AEI Rugby 2
Compared with last week's abject performance, this good draw demonstrated that there is certainly potential in the team.With three youngsters continuing to play, the OBs started to take on some shape with Henry up front showing fine touches along with Kenny and Curtis in defence displaying amazingly mature talent.A fit again Miles was drafted into goal with Kettle and Casey returning to the fold. And it was kettle whose superb, jinking run was climaxed with the first goal.But in the second half the visitors took advantage of erratic keeping to take the lead only for Henry to score a deserved equaliser.

16th February 2008

CCOBFC Reserves 2 Ambleside 1 Internal Cup
With manager Hemmings returning to the defence and with youngsters Curtis and Kenny in sparkling form, this was indeed a much better performance. In particular the fluent running and trickery of star player Sean Kettle was the difference between the two sides in the first half with a superb individual goal to grace any Premier stage! With good substitutions in the last ten minutes a powerful strike by the sub enabled veteran King to score with a fierce shot and put the OBs into the next round.

CCOBFC 0 Fillongley 5
Fillongley prove yet again to be our bogey side. From a fine win the previous week the OBs displayed none of theit usual encouraging drive and it must be a still remain a mystery for manager Taggart to explain such a resounding defeat.

23rd February 2008

1st March 2008

CCOBFC 0 Folly Lane 3
In spite of creating a hatful of chances, missed opportunities and lack of accuracy cost the OBs the game. Again without the missing Gareth Coleman and Matt Casey the OBs lacked defensive grit and without seeming direction or leadership on the pitch this result plunges the OBs into the dangerous relegation area.

CCOBFC reserves 2 Hub 7
Against the division high flyers the OBs put up a brave show with Paul Jones scoring twice.

Saturday 8th March 2008

CCOBFC 3 Christ the King 1
With Matt Casey and Gareth Coleman returning to defence there was a more balanced looking side that took the field on this windy afternoon in March. Playing with the wind at their backs the OBs began to play with a new found confidence with effective running and a driving energy which exploited the conditions. Two goals were just reward for theOBs' dominance in the first half when the Knight twins combined friom a corner with Phil floating a fine cross for brother Trevor to nod in with aplomb. A fine ball from midfield followed and Tom Henry using his speed lobbed the keeper to score a fine goal which he celebrated with joy.
It was more difficult in the second half playing against the wind but in many ways the OBs' character was displayed in fine defensive work in which Casey and in particular man of the match Coleman were outstanding with keeper Knox producing a magnificent save against his old club. This brought its rewards with the hardworking Liam Barr scoring his first for the club after fine work on the right.

Saturday 15th March 2008

CCOBFC 1 Copsewood 3
It was difficult to believe that the OBs who had beaten the division leaders the previous week could be beaten by the bottom of the division. Admittedly the windy weather did not help creating erratic moments but too many were seemingly not fit to play (the Cheltenham effect ?) and without Matt Casey in defence the OBs were vulnerable to the opposition who were clearly fast and up for the game. However, young Henry scored a good goal to make it 1-1 but that was about it.

Saturday 22nd March 2008

CCOBFC Reserves 2 Bulkington 1
In this important fixture the OBs persevered to show a depth of character which put a smile on manager Hemmings' face and lifted the side up from its lowly league position. With Knox once again outstanding in goal and young Henry alert, fast and inventive up front there was always gouing to be luck on our side. And so it proved. Strong midfield play and no nonsense tackling eventually won the day and provided the forward opportunities that lead to the goals. Winning the ball on the right Henry evaded two tackles, was tackled himself but won the ball back beat another two defenders before squaring the ball beautifully for Jones to score to make it 2-1. This was preceded by a fine headed goal by Phil Knight.This was then followed in the second half by a brilliant penalty save by Knox who produced another fine save near the end to cap a great display by the OBs.


Saturday 29th March 2008

CCOBFC 2 Nuneaton Griff & Coton 0
Playing with the wind in the first half proved an advantage as the OBs ,again short of three players in Casey, Coleman and Phil Knight, turned in a most encouraging performance with Rosie Haymes, Barr and Knox outstanding . Two fine goals by Curtis and kettle respectively put the OBs in the ascendancy in the first half. Playing strong attacking football the Obs could have been more goals in the lead had it not been for the acrobatics of the Griff keeper . In the second half the Griif turned up the pressure attacking in waves with the wind in their favour but Knox was resolute and with Haymes inspiring his defence, the OBs weathered the wind Knox capping a backs to the wall display by bringing off his third penalty save in as many weeks. Stand-in manager Dave Jones was at his most eloquent after the game almost weeping at this important victory. One more point will now secure the OBs place in this division.

CCOBFC Reserves 1 Bermuda 4
With resources stretched the OBs managed to just field a team but in spite of Jones' goalthe opposition were just too good for them on the day.

Saturday 5th April 2008

CCOBFC 2 Alvis 2
After the early season 5-0 defeat against this team of league leaders, this draw showed the improvement that both the team and the club have made since.With Casey returning to partner Beerdmore in the centre of defence and Mince Coleman sportingly offering to go sub, the side had a more balanced look holding its own in the opening exchanges. But luck was against the OBs when the ref mistakenly judged a hand ball giving Alvis a free kick from which they scored. This spurred the league leaders on and they were soon two up with a fine defence splitting pass. However with Beermore's throws creating havoc in the Alvis defence the Obs thought they had scored in the first few minutes of the second half when Falconer met a cross with aplomb only to be given offside when clearly in an onside position. The Obs brought on Mince Coleman whose positional play, bite and good running gave an added impetus to the Obs' play. With man of the match Haymes urging the side on, the Obs had three minutes left and deservedly pulled one back through top scorer Trevor Knight taking advantage of a slip-up and with seconds to go hard-working Tom Henry scored to pull level as the final whistle blew.

CCOBFC Reserves 0 Witherley 2
With a big squad and both Valanve and Woodruff returning, here was a chance to grab a point or three. But it was not to be and in spite of good goalkeeping from Jamie Bramwellthe Obs are still searching for wins to put them in the safety zone.

Saturday 12th April 2008

CCOBFC 1 Ambleside 1
Without the services of Coleman, Kettle and Bhara, the OBs nevertheless gave a good performance against the top side. With Casey and in particular Haymes outstanding in defence and Beerdmore yet again powerful in his presence and long throw-ins, the OBs were more than a match for the fast passing opposition who clearly had victory in their sights. Both sides were frustrated by the weak refereeing whose body language was statuesque in its hesitation but nevertheless both sides battled hard and there was little between them. Relentless defensive tackling repelled everything that Ambleside were able to mount and it was therefore just reward when the OBs were awarded a penalty at the start of the second half which Trevor Knight took with aplomb. There were seconds left when a flighted ball from the left was headed in by Ambleside which they celebrated as if winning the FA Cup final. Perhaps a draw was a fair result but even more important the OBs were now guaranteed safety with just two games to play.

Tuesday 15th April 2008

COBFC1 Potters Green 4
The OBs battled throughout the match against probably the best footballing side in the division. A predominantly young side with some older heads, the Potters were fluent in their passing, direct, inventive and full of hunger. In contract the OBs only matched them in spells and in consequence in spite of Crean's chip at the end the opponents were that much bertter in nearly every position. One was reminded of the OBs' squad nine years ago who took the Alliance 1 title to gain promotion to the Premier. Much has happened since, the OBs are building again....there is much optimism, no little skill and certainly enthusiasm.

Saturday 19th April 2008

CCOBFC 1 Coventry Colliery 0
The OBs completed their season with a deserved victory over local rivals Colliery who are still in with a chance of a high finish. The match was even throughout the first half with both sides battling for both fluency and possession but with Coleman unavailable manager Taggart donned the famous kit for a first half midfield cameo revealing he had lost none of his skill and only a little speed. it took a moment of inspired insight from falconer to break the deadlock. Anticipating a throw-in he sprinted uinmto space and with the goalkeeper tearing towards him he lobbed the keeper in spectacular manner to remind us all of what a talented player he could be with some consistency.With the defence generally solid and again with youing David Know outstanding in goal the final whistle went on a decent season with the OBs finishing safely in upper mid-table;a season saved by dint of the both the hard work of the team ,the managers and the backroom boys.Well done.

Saturday 26th April 2008

CCOBFC Reserves 4 Hub 2
This was a vital victory over the top side in the division who clearly wanted to make certain of their status by winning as champions. But ultimately character showed in a disciplined, yet passionate performance where the team played out of their skins in a game where the underdogs became the top dogs with a convincing 4-2 victory. With Knox yet again brilliant in goal with one finger tip save in particular when it was 2-2, and Miles and Haymes brave in defence, Barr, Knight and Falconer started to assert themselves in the second half with powerful tackling and surging runs . This proved decisive and still carrying an injury Jones too was outstanding scoring a fine penalty. This was complented by veteran King scoring his unique opportunist brace and Liam Barr scoring with a twenty yard grass cutter.

Saturday 3rd May 2008

CCOBFC Reserves 2 Coventry University 1
So the season ends on a positive victory over a quality University side. This was a game that had to be won and with the Uni playing AEI Rugby there is hope that all will be well and the OBs will stay up in Division 111. AEI would have to win by an enormous score to beat the OBs' goal tally. We wait and hope.One nil down to fast running, fit and youthful side the OBs dug deep in the second half.Every player turned in a strong performance with Haymes yet again inspirational in defence and Trevor Knight outstanding in his running, tackling and, as it proved, goal scoring prowess. His brace of well taken goals, one with minutes to spare, were the stuff of boyhood dreams. His beating of defenders, his shrugging off of tackles, his all-round passion to win, was exemplary and deserved his man of the match accolade.