Manager’s Overview to season 2004-2005

2003-2004 ended with Kevin Downes scoring the winner against Downend, keeping the 1st XI up and claiming the Top Scorer trophy for the first time.  How things changed as Kev decided to join AC Sports in Division 3 leaving the team behind pondering a new formation.  That particular season had seen player after player leave, leaving an unsettled 1st XI game after game, resorting in inconsistencies that led to close defeats.

            The new season 2004-2005, however, started with a win with a new look 4-5-1 formation, this compact formation helped the team defensively but reduced chances and goals became hard to come by.  The notable exception being the 8-1 win over Stapleton Cricketers.  The wide men Aaron and Ryan that day clicked and supported the lone striker perfectly, unfortunately this 4-5-1 to 4-3-3 notion was difficult for the young lads to adopt and Jason was soon coming out of goal to boost the goal getting aims in a 4-4-2 format.

            This again failed to work as Jase had commitments that meant he couldn’t play regularly, and George was played up front to partner Curly.  Although Jase signed off with two goals in a 4-1 away success to Stapleton.  Rob went to the back and formed the previous season’s partnership with Rich, as Froomer played in goal.  2005 began with a 4-3 cup loss to Enterprise Security, but three goals and the fact that we outplayed them proved the formation was starting to work.  City Darts were then beaten, Breakaways and Sportsman’s followed, and all of a sudden the 1st XI were clicking and had one of the best defensive records in the division.  A loss to Jolly Boys was hard to take as again we outplayed them, but absences and a key injury to myself upset the shape that day.  We bounced back however beating Good Intent, where Curly scored two great goals and Daren became only the second player to score 50 Argonaut goals.  This had been happening without a recognised ‘keeper, a skipper and even some would say an out and out striker.

            The season carried on, losing as often as winning, an evening draw v. Tildenet, and a great personal highlight as I scored a 20 yarder left foot shot v. Enterprise in a double fixture.  Bloomfield Sports were the penultimate match.  After they’d already won a cup, were in the final of another and were top of the league, we knew we had a game on.  After losing the first fixture of a double, 3-0, we rallied and put on probably the greatest performance in the Argonauts history, coming back from 2-0 to win 4-2, with “Curly” scoring all four to equal Daren’s leading tally.  The performance was missing Willett and Daren, two very influential players.  Although we lost to Brizil our “Auld” enemies the next week, the season finished on a high.  The character, tenacity, confidence and will to win we showed against Bloomfield was exactly how we achieved the 4th position we finished in the division.

            Next season we should push on from this, win some silverware, and we must have a cup run.  Finals are there to be played in not watched.

            The reserve team had their greatest season, a lofty 5th place.  Virtually unbeatable from the turn of the year, if it wasn’t for a few games at the start of the season, (one was played with 9 men, the other with 10), the reserves could, and in hindsight, should have finished in the top 2.

            Pete Meadows and Tom Clark had been recruited to manage but Scottie still stayed on as main contact, Cookie became a focal point for the players and he was soon bringing his own ideas across.  This worked well for the reserves; consistency on the pitch as well as playing staff soon became apparent.  Results improved as Pete was raving about certain players, but was particularly chuffed with the defence.  This was because they weren’t new players but old who, with Pete and Tom’s guidance, gelled into an important unit.  Keith was called up a few times to the first XI, Matt, Rich, Jason and others were always mentioned as well as the goal scorers.

            Lockie came in with an engine, finishing and ability.  He finished the season with loads of goals.  Ross Terry came in scored great goals, but spread the ball around.  Cookie brought his goals to the frame, these can gain points throughout the season in themselves, but the vital factor with the reserves was the fact that they were gelling as a team, were settled and have great team spirit.  The tackle Stu put in v. Quayside was met with a great cheer from the players and spectators, a sign that the spirit was flowing, and the team were simmering away and aren’t scared anymore of any opposition.

            Next season must begin the way it has ended; a top 2 finish should be expected.  The squad now can handle players being selected for the 1st XI and I’m sure they will do more than cope…

Rob Davis
1st June 2005

Below, Rob's player write up

 
Dave Willett (Skipper):  Dave was having a good season up until January, weighing in with 3 goals.  His first season as Captain provided the ambition Dave had for the side to do well this season.  A good engine, desire and a fearless approach to the game provide an excellent basis for Dave’s midfield game.  Passing, crossing and shooting are always accurate, and assists are always ticked in Dave’s column.
Unfortunately a knee injury, which got progressively worse, ruined Dave’s season, and I’m sure frustration was there for Dave as the side seemed to improve and settle.  Next season I am sure the skipper will be hungrier than ever…
 
George Mull Holland (Vice Skipper):  George had the reverse of Dave; at the start Rob wanted George to form a formidable partnership with Rich Davis.  However it soon became apparent that George had his own ideas of his best position!  Right Back, Right Mid, Centre Mid, the positions were never ending.  George’s season finally settled as he filled the berth left up front by Jason.  Being Curly’s partner seemed to come naturally for George as goals started to flow, particularly for Curly.  This isn’t a coincidence as George leads from the front.
            Great in the air, (great header v. Breakaways), hard tackler, decent skill  & unquenchable spirit make George a player, but also a Captain who leads by example.  Although a little quiet!
 
Aaron Clifford:  Aaron has had a difficult season; a noticeable dip in confidence has hampered him.  However Aaron is the perfect example of loyalty & commitment, only missing 1 game in two seasons!
            Pace, strength, a nice left foot and a growing ability in the air are Aaron’s raw skills.  Although he’s learnt more defensively and vocally, Aaron has got to step up to the next level in three main areas; confidence on the ball, timing of his crosses & positioning.  These will make him more of a threat.  Too many times has Aaron pelted the ball up field, instead of bringing the ball down and creating more options.  Still young, Rob has confidence in Aaron, and he is aware that Aaron’s best position could be Left Back…
 
Alan Froom:  “Froomer” has had a strange season, starting off at right back, he has played central defence before offering his services as ‘Keeper!  A change in formation necessitated Jason coming out from Goal, and Froomer offered his services.  Although not as vocal in Goal as out, Froomer’s natural bravery has pulled off some solid performances.
            An influence vocally on the pitch, Froom is good in the air, strong in the tackle and, probably his most valuable asset, consistently performs to a good standard.  These attributes he needs to bring to the position of ‘Keeper, but I think that confidence will come and so will consistency.  Froomer deserved a great end to the season, and got it with a M.O.M. display v. Brizil.
 
Andy “Curly” Procter:  Curly’s season has been much improved again.  Last year’s Most Improved player has come on leaps and bounds again this year.  Always up front, (but can play in Midfield) getting kicked around, getting lambasted by team-mates for not running and often subbed due to a tactical change, Curly lets it all wash over him as he keeps scoring!
            Curly’s season started off slowly where goals were concerned, as he was the solitary front man.  However Post-Xmas a new confident, fitter Curly emerged, and the goals soon followed.  A fearless competitor, with a decent touch does not a good player make, but Curly’s decision-making, finishing and anticipation have brought goals and assists in abundance.  He will quite often score a rebound and other “scrappy” goals, but a gorgeous half-volley v. Good Intent, finally proved to others if not himself that he has great ability.  Finished the season on 13 goals, after 4 v. Bloomfield, later division champions.  The good thing is, I believe there is still room for improvement…
 
Ben Tuck: Promoted at the end of last season, “Tuckie” has established himself as a regular first XI squad member.  He initially struggled to hold down a place, but has found a regular place at right back.
            A player with quick feet, a clever footballing brain and a confidence to always want the ball are fine attributes.  However Tuckie needed more to his game.  True, he often comes out of tackles with the ball (somehow), and wins his fair amount of headers for his height, but there is still something missing from his game.  I believe this to be fitness, especially over the ninety minutes.  The good thing being that this is something that Tuckie can sort out.  Lastly it should be said that Tuckie is vital in the dressing room, his dry humour almost rivals Rob’s…
 
Daren Holmes: Daren always sets high standards for himself, mainly due to his footballing exploits in the past.  Reaching his mid-30s, Daren has had to work hard at his fitness, and quite often will be happy to let someone else do the running.  This season Daren has scored 13 goals, mainly from midfield, and also open play.  In the past a fair number of Penalties have bumped his figures up.
            Strong in the tackle, imperious in the air and probably the hardest shot in The Argonauts make up Daren’s raw characteristics.  However it is hard to find a weakness technically as passing, positioning and timing are all exemplary.  However his engine needs a tune up, and his choice of passes can sometimes be hurried rather than measured.  Easily sorted with time and a degree of focus.  Daren also scored his 50th this year; in fact he is still stuck on it…
 
Jason Alderman: Last year’s Players’ Player & Manager’s Player, Jase had a lot to live up to.  Starting off in goal, and then used as a forward, Jase then had other commitments, which hampered his Argonauts career.
            In goal he is quick, brave and decisive, shot stopping being his forte.  Out of goal he is quick, with a good touch, decisive (bordering on selfishness) and has the knack of making well-timed runs when he is on his game.  He plays off the shoulder and is often in a 1 v 1 situation.  Better finishing would grab him easier goals, but he scores as many as he misses.  (Often 25 yarders!)  Technically very good, Jase can often go past players as if they are not there and it should be said how many crosses he actually gets into the box.  Probably the only player in Argonauts history to score twice after coming out of goal (v. The Castle).  Next year Jase cannot guarantee his availability, which is a shame to the club as a whole.
 
Mark Niblett: “Nibs” has had a good season; reluctant to come back up to the 1st XI at first, I’m sure he has enjoyed himself more than ever.  A midfielder by trade, he is often played wherever and whenever.
            A tough tackler, fierce competitor and fearless in any confrontation Nibs bases his game around these attributes.  Although raw skills like these are desirable, Nibs has realised the need to use the ball wisely.  He can and will “ping” a 40-yard pass, but he will also understand the wisdom of the short ball game.  Something that Nibs has worked at is his fitness, a good engine has surfaced and although sometimes burnt out from Saturdays a little, he uses this to good effect.  More goals needed though…
 
Neil Gardiner: Neil’s season didn’t really get going until he changed his job.  Committed more to Saturday football, as he’s the manager, Neil worked most Sundays and even when he was available the weather denied him his football!  This was in contrast to last season when he became the first Argonaut to reach 100 appearances.
            A good last minute tackler, becoming better in the air, and confident with the ball at his feet, Neil’s defensive game can only be improved with better positioning and a bit more raw strength.  Talking is not Neil’s speciality along with many of the team, but he does recognise the short ball game as the way forward.  He’s often playing square passes sensibly, and will always use his first touch to its advantages, creating space and time.  This football brain needs honing into something more, positioning and communication being the core abilities required.
 
Rich Davis: Rich wasn’t sure at the beginning of the season if he was going to play Sundays this season.  After the first few games however, he had been required to help out, and with pressure from Rob and the players Rich decided to commit fully to The Argonauts.  This season Rich has passed the 100 game mark, and has become a permanent fixture at the heart of the defence.
            Some might say that he is only really getting his game back together after the broken leg he suffered in January 2002.  The process has been slow but in a strange way Rich’s game has transformed into something more than a brave, (some would say reckless) tackler, who got himself out of trouble with his pace.  For example his positioning has got better, his heading is now full of conviction and timing, he understands more the need for preventing space and touch, instead of a 50/50, 40/60 tackle.  He also still has his pace and his tackling is strong, almost arrogant at times.  Only when Rich meets someone with likeable pace do you see the chinks, this must be eradicated.  A reliance on others to talk and organise is slowly wearing off, Rich’s voice can now be heard organising not just encouraging.  Rich plays with his brother Rob and both can be heard arguing who carries whom, but a partnership has formed…
 
Ryan Parsons: Ryan scored the 300th Argonaut goal last season and has gone from strength to strength ever since.  Bigger this year as he is only just turning 18.  Ryan can only get better, 5 goals, loads of memorable tricks, a great half volley which pinged off the post v. jolly Boys, and a wonderful strike v. breakaways have lit up the First teams season.
            Confidence, wonderful ability, balance, pace, aerial ability, for his size a brave tackler, great engine, vision and always, always ready to “skin” again and again his marker show Ryan’s abilities to the full.  There are weaknesses however, a desire to shoot far too often when better options are available, his shots often off target, shots often weak.  His end game needs improving and it’s all down to Ryan’s choices.  Decisions can turn a player from individual to team player, and being a team is The Argonauts greatest asset.  Next year Rob would like to see more of the same but awareness of better options would benefit the team, we’d score more goals, something we were weak on this season…
 
Tom Sparks: Tom came into the first from January, although he appeared in a friendly and as a sub for the first game.  A great performance at left back cemented him firmly into the 1st Team squad; he has gone from strength to strength.  He’s played Centre Midfield, Left Midfield, at the back, but is anything but a utility player.
            Tom has great touch, a sweet left foot, movement off the ball and a great football brain.  From the first game it wasn’t tackles, headers or passing that shone, but a remarkable intelligence.  Talking, organising, encouraging are all attributes but Tom talks to every player all of the time, whether the ball is in play or not.  Timing has also shone through and Tom will win 50/50s, headers and can easily create space for himself.  This is particularly evident in midfield, and he’s always supporting, giving angles or creating runs.  Next season tom will find the pressure is on, and players will look to him for guidance.
 
Other players who’ve played:
 
Blue O’Connor: A player to sign for next year.  Forward with pace, touch and vision.
 
Dan Milton: Only 1 appearance, has promise.  Spent a lot of season in goal for reserves, Forward/Midfield.
 
Ian Jay: A youngster with lots of promise.  Forward or midfield can get up and down and has vision.  3 appearances, 3 assists!
 
John Mullholland:  Became “Emergency” player through own choice, talented full back or midfielder, with excellent football brain.
 
Keith Bromley: On the verge of the first team.  Strong, powerful defender who can talk as well.  Scored first goal for 1st XI.
 
Liam Farmer: Left midfielder, scored beauty on debut.  Hope to sign him next season as competition for Aaron.
 
Matt Palmer: Orienteering clashes with football.  A good, technical defender, again on the verge of the first team.
 
Matt Scott: Always reliable, tigerish midfielder.  He can also play anywhere, except in goal, as he is far too tall.
 
Paul Asensio: Always happy to make the step up.  Getting on a bit now, and is still finding his fitness after years in football-barren Czech rep./Poland.  Forward.
 
Paul Sealey: Classy player who promises every pre-season that he will come back and never does!  1 appearance, 1 MOM performance.  Still got it.
 
Paul White: Quiet, but reliable.  Has played all over for the first team and has never let us down, on the verge of permanent residence in the squad.
 
Shane Webber: “Titch” played once, made Derrick seem serene, sensible and even normal.  Rich invited him to come along.
 
Stu Gardiner: Doesn’t care where he plays as long as he has something to moan about.  Seriously though he has the perfect attitude.