First Team Manager’s Overview 2005-2006

What a season!  The biggest challenge of my management career, and generally the biggest challenge off the field I could ever imagine.  It all started last Summer, when at one of the regular League meetings I attend, I found out the 1st XI were moving up to the Senior division and the reserves were staying put.  Not what we wanted as the Reserves deserved moving up when teams below them were promoted due to supplying the League with reserve teams, and the 1^st XI finished 4^th and weren’t quite ready to progress.  However we were promoted due to a massive number of teams dropping out of the League, and were therefore “victims” of a reshuffle.  I wasn’t the only one to think it was too soon, as the comments I received from players and outsiders were met with pessimism and cynicism in equal measures.  This wasn’t going to change matters though; we were in it and in it deep.

I realised that playing at this level was the highest the majority of the squad had played, and attitude, work rate and commitment were going to be our stable attributes.  Belief in ability would come with the successful application of the above, but I knew it could be a long, hard season…

Over the summer Daren and I realised that change was in order, I knew that Daren’s goals from midfield were important, but was sure him dropping to the back four, and myself creating an “engine room” in midfield with Willett, was the right decision.  Other than that I was convinced that competition for places was evident enough as long as a few new faces were introduced.

Dan Milton was promoted from the reserves, Jordan Goodchild was back and looked sharp in training, and Mike Fitzpatrick signed over the summer and had the ability to play in the First XI.  We had lost Nibs & Jase to a Part-time Basis, but they would have their parts to play.

As we all know, our season got off to the worst possible start.  Daren had a car accident and was suffering with whiplash, in the first game he convinced himself and myself that he was fit enough to play in goal.  This proved the worst decision, as after ten minutes we were 3-0 down, Daren could hardly bend down to pick the ball up, and Froomer had turned his ankle.  They swapped positions.  Daren lasted another 5 minutes, and a couple of goals before going off for Mike.  The damage was done, and we found ourselves 10 (Ten) – 0 down at half time.  A rollicking off later we returned, improved a bit, scored two great goals, Rich missed a penalty and conceded another eight.  Personally I learnt a lot that day, and the players had two ways to carry on their season; lie down or stand up and be counted.  They chose the latter…

After this game I knew targets had to be set, realistic targets.  We didn’t want to finish bottom, so that was target number one.  I wanted to win some games and decided to set the target of a double figures points tally in the league, not all that easy from 18 league games, but achievable.

From then on we improved every game or so it felt.  We all realised that hard work and a steep learning curve were the base elements to competing in each game.  We got our first point against St Bonaventurers a 2-2 draw, however they dropped out of the league later on and we went back to nil points.  Still the players didn’t give up and we responded straight away with a thrilling 4-3 away victory to The Billy, our last league game of the year.

We were learning fast, as well as hard work, we realised we can play football, in fact against some of the better “footballing” sides we rose up and matched them, sometimes even bettering them.  We started to understand tactics as a team, especially at the back; we were playing to people’s strengths and a real camaraderie developed.  Nobody looked out of place in the first team or the Division, and I could see the hunger in the players to learn and test themselves against good players week in, week out.

A draw at home to Bristol Athletic followed, then we put to bed THAT horror show with a 3-0 loss to the 18-2 opponents, The Anchor.  Lebeq Reserves was a highlight, we went 2-0 up but they fought back and scored the winner in the final 5 minutes.  Any Lebeq team has a reputation, but we gave them no quarter and to a man we fought for every ball, harassed every player and played them off the park.  I could see the desire in every player that game to beat the League leaders.  We just fell away in the last 10-15 minutes when two goals were conceded, and we missed some excellent chances.  Their next game they sealed the title up in mid-February!

The next game we finally beat a bogey team of ours, Jolly Boys, 4-0 at home.  A clean sheet as well, who’d have believed that at the start of the season?

In our last games we managed to pick up another point v. Bellcelona, 3-3.  Although we were 3-0 up at half-time, and I made some decisions which turned out to be a gamble, although our subs missed some chances and made some bad decisions themselves.  You know who you are!  We lost to the eventual Runners-Up, GE Sports 1-0 at home (a last minute strike).  Drew away to a resurgent Bristol Athletic 2-2, and finally beat Bellcelona 4-1 at home.  That performance gave us 12 points from 16 games, and we finished 2 off the bottom.  Targets achieved.  The final performance was commanding for the majority of the game, and it really should have been more.

In the end every player who has played for the First XI can hold his head high as they’ve all been good enough mentally and physically to play against some excellent players.  I personally wouldn’t swap anyone, you’ve all been excellent on and off the pitch, and everyone has the same desire to prove themselves, rare qualities.  This season has been my finest as manager, as I’ve enjoyed it more than any other, the challenge has been met and bettered, but there’s always next season…

First Team Captains Column

            This season has been a real up and down affair starting with the shambles that was the 18-2 defeat to the Anchor. If there was any realisation that we were in for our hardest season yet this was it. It would have to go down as one of the worst team performances certainly the worst defeat I have ever been a part of. However the character shown by the team to come back from such a disaster to end the season beating Bellcelona to stay up was a fantastic achievement.

I believe the key was an emergence of a great team spirit, what was most pleasing was that each player rather than arguing with each other decided to roll up their sleeves and just get on with it. The never say die attitude meant that we competed in games far more than most of the opposition thought we would, rattling a few of the top teams with our competitiveness was great to see, and looking back we were very close to pulling off some huge upsets only to be caught out in the last moments of games. Regardless of opposition we always looked to play the ball around and at times embarrassed opponents in the way we linked our play together notably Bellcelona in the last game when we played more like Barcelona (sorry Arsenal fans).

This season we have seen a number of new leaders on the pitch, no longer are we relying on the same players to put in the big performance, people were standing up to be counted and as a result our levels of consistency have been extremely high and players realised their part to play in the team as a whole. Ben Tuck has personified this, he has had a great season dominated his opposite number in most games and his contribution to the team by simply ‘doing his job’ was massive.

The strong backbone of the team helped the team stabilise and develop after our opening day defeat. The defence has come on leaps and bounds, with the welcome return of Darren Holmes near the end of season giving the team an added dimension at the back. The back four of Rich Davis, Tom Sparks, Ben Tuck and DH can really be proud of their performances (we wont mention penalties Rich) your endeavour released the rest of the team to go out and play. Andy Procter showed his effectiveness at being in the right place at the right time weighing in with some important goals - his screamer against Bellcelona in the last game probably saved our season (I’m still claiming goal of the season tho Curly!)

Tweedledee and Tweedledum – well what can I say – outstanding - your fearless approach to games really galvanised the team, always providing an outlet on the left of midfield and upfront meant we were able to take the game to teams (improvements for next season: Ryan stop turning up to games like your on Footballers Wives and Aaron – no shooting from the far touchline and both of you – Pass Pass PASS THE BALL!!!!!!!)

Other notable contributions must go to Dan Milton who was always willing and has improved immeasurably this season. He was one of the few plus points from the Anchor defeat and his versatility has seen him play most positions this season and he made sure that the number 8 shirt was in more than capable hands when I missed a few games through injury. Jordan Goodchild has made a welcome return to the fold and thanks to George Mullholland and Alan Froom for their stints in goal your efforts were much appreciated. Also thanks to the reserve team players such as Matt Scott who showed that they too could play at a higher level.

However the biggest thanks and praise must go to Rob Davis who I think as a player had one of his best seasons but as a manager I am sure he will agree that this season has been his most rewarding, it has been for me (that last win was for you gaffer).

             I wont be there next season I am off to Oz. I can safely say I have loved every minute as Club Captain and hope that I have performed my duties to the level that is expected. I know I have not been the most vocal but have tried to lead by example driving the team forward especially this season. Seeing the guys come through and develop into a team in every sense of the word has been extremely satisfying, I wish everyone involved in the club all the best for next season I will still be around for the start of the season (in a watching capacity) and will comeback to see you all after my travels.

 Thanks for the memories

 Skipper

First Team Players Info

Dave Willett

Skipper.  As always with Willett, a fine, consistent season.  Has ability, but as I’ve said before a great engine.  Always will be an influence, although we haven’t missed him as much as previous seasons…  It’s a shame he’ll be travelling next year, will miss his creativity and goals.

 

George Mullholland

Vice-Skipper.  An injury has stunted George’s season.  He was playing well up front however.  Always leads the line well, brave and strong, with a good touch.  The second half of the season he was playing in goal, and did very well.  Next season he’s travelling as well!  Will be missed too.

 

Aaron Clifford

Last season he was inconsistent, this season he has been one of our biggest influences.  Pace, strength and bravery have come on.  His decision-making is still as bad ever; if he ever got that sorted we’d have a top player.

 

Alan Froom

Froomer’s season has been erratic in performances and availability.  Obviously his having to work is a big factor, but Froomer never shirks a game, opponent or a moan.  I would like him more available next season.  Great character.

 

Alan Hodges

Alan came in at the end of the season and he impressed me straight away.  Next year he’ll be in the first XI, and I really think his obvious experience and footballing intelligence are a need for the team, rather than a want.

 

Andy Procter

Terrible start in terms of goals, but came through as last season to pick up his Golden Boot.  I still feel he’s under-rated, his goals ratio speaks volumes, and this season he has learnt the value of holding the ball up.  Creative, strong and our best finisher, he also has a reputation for laziness.  Only he can change that…

 

Ben Tuck

A great season, I can say that I always believed in him, others can’t.  Committed, brave, very skilful and a great brain, the higher level he plays at will suit him.  Fitter than last year, and riding the crest of a wave.  I hope the last game of the season was a one-off; nobody’s got a right to play in the team…

 

Dan Milton

Mr. Milton.  He has been a great promotion to the 1^st XI.  Even after the 18-2 at the start, he wanted to play for the first XI and test himself, that attitude can be like gold dust at times.  A popular character, “Milts” has ability, courage, understanding and the ability to play almost anywhere.  Permanent fixture.

 

Daren Holmes

Daren’s biggest test has been this season.  With a long term injury and a shift of position, he probably felt that he was under pressure to get back in the side.  Good.  Well he’s passed all tests and is still a massive influence.  We still need a few seasons out of the seasoned warrior yet…

 

Dodo Milanov

Dodo has been refreshing for me.  After a disastrous debut, Dodo felt so ashamed he wouldn’t play until he felt he’d sharpened up enough at training.  That is unheard of, how many of you can say you’d do the same?  He has lots of ability, and can be creative, he also scores goals.  He scored 3 from 6, and still hasn’t played a full game!  Needs to toughen up.

 

Ian Clark

One game, one goal.  Has a future and I’ll be watching him…

 

Ian Davis

Helped us out against Lebeq.  Wish he’d get out of bed and play.

 

Jason Alderman

Although he’s struggled to play due to commitments, Jase has been an influence.  MOM in goal v. Lebeq, Centre Half in the cup, missed chances v. The Billy up front.  Where’s his best position?  Hopefully one day he’ll be back.

Jordan Goodchild

Came back from somewhere, and was put straight in the first XI squad at pre-season training.  Wonderful crosser, the best in the club.  He can also play at fullback, and is timing his tackling and heading better every game; I’ve noticed.  Is toughening up and has more than replaced the hole that Ryan left at Right Mid.

 

Keith Bromley

As every season Keith played a few games for us.  I must admit that this year he hasn’t played as well, but everyone has a dip in form.  Strong player, who’s great in the air, Keith is a great prospect, shame that we have so many defenders.  Maybe this season?

 

Mark Niblett

Only played a couple of games, but never, ever lets you down.  Nibs played for us in the 2-2 draw that was scrubbed off, would have played more but we always had a team!  Otherwise he’d have been my first ask every week.

 

Matt Scott

There will come a time when Scottie leaves the Reserves to it and (rightly) embraces the First XI.  He’s good enough.  Great tackler, getting better in the air, and can partner anyone in the middle.  This season I’ll be fair to him…

 

Mike Fitzpatrick

Mike has the ability, and the strength.  He just needs to know when to release the ball.  I have a lot of expectation for Mike and he will start to come through the ranks soon, he just needs to find his confidence in the reserves, and his identity.

 

Neil Gardiner

Neil, Neil, Neil.  The perennial headache, Neil can be strong, hard, dominating one week to downright absurd the next.  His “injuries” need to clear up and sometimes his attitude has to be less… “I know I was crap”.   A footballer first, Neil is brave and his anticipation can be wonderful.  Always tries to keep the ball.  Must learn position play.  What motivates this man?

 

Nick Jones

Nick has ability and strength, but more importantly he has presence.  You just know he isn’t going to back out of an argument, tackle, header, etc.  I just wish he didn’t back out of games so much…

 

Paul White

Paul had a ‘mare for us and in his only game this season he gave away a penalty.  I must admit I was pleased in his reaction; he was gutted, and made no attempt to hide it.  Paul, you played that day because you deserved to this season.

 

Rich Davis

Rich has recovered from a “sleepy” start to become a consistent, influential player.  His pace has become his back-up plan, and he relies on his strength in the air, in the tackle and he has learnt to play from the back, sensibly.  Much like his often partner Neil.  Still room for improvement though, especially tactically / positionally.

 

Rich Scott

Always there to help, and never lets us down.  True Argonaut.

 

Ross Holbrook

Helps out, used to be in the first team squad.  Has the ability, not the work-rate.  Needs a good woman and he might just get back in…

 

Ryan Parsons

I know how to spot talent.  Ryan has been our fulcrum, our Pele from Escape to Victory, our Rooney.  He has come on again, and pushing him up front has worked.  Attacking-wise he’s our most influential player, and sometimes even I am amazed at his repertoire of skill.  Still, he must learn to pass at the right time, that was why Pele was Pele and Bestie was Bestie…

 

Tom Sparks

Felt he had a slow start, but he has come through with flying colours.  Has ability, brain and positional sense.  He needs confidence.  Well, Tom you are the best left back we’ve ever had, how about that?  Must stop his habit of kicking down the line in the second half, there’s always someone inside!  Easiest member of the squad to wind up, embarrassing (for him).

First Team Match Summaries

The Anchor (A) L 18-2

What can one say about that?  Without doubt the worst result in Argonauts history, although we scored two great goals and Rich nearly scored his first ever-competitive goal, (missed penalty).  Somehow positives were made.  I was worried at the time, but with hindsight, the kick up the backside we needed.  Welcome to the Senior Division…

Scorers: Ryan Parsons, George Mullholland

MOM: Ryan Parsons (5)

 

Lebeq Reserves (H) L 6-2

Guessed at the time that they would be the top team in the league, they finished first!  4-0 down at H-T, although Curly missed another Penalty which would have made it 1-0.  Second half 2-2, and we played great attacking football; defensively I felt we were learning very quickly.  More positives.

Scorer: Ryan Parsons (2)

MOM: Jason Alderman (6)

 

St. Bonaventurers (A) D 2-2

A gritty, battling 2-2 draw. It gave us a platform to build on, although a couple of months later our first point was scrubbed, due to St. Bons resigning from the league; typical!

Scorers: Aaron Clifford, Andy “Curly” Procter

MOM: Ryan Parsons (6)

 

Jolly Boys (A) L 4-2

We went there with optimism and a real belief didn’t really materialise into anything, as we lost without a great fight.  Always chasing the game.  One day we’ll beat them…

Scorers: Dave Willett, George Mullholland

MOM: Dave Willett (7)

 

GE Sports (A) L 5-2

I brought this game forward, as I wanted us to play as much, as quickly as possible.   A few faces missing, I remember having a heavy cold and played at the back.  We conceded in the first 10 seconds!  We carried the fight though, and were always competing.  I remember being at 3-2, but they scored two late goals, I felt at the time we could have got something, but was aware that late starting and early finishing in games doesn’t really help, and we’d get punished every time from now on.

Scorers: Dave Willett, O.G.

MOM: Dave Willett, Ben Tuck (3)

 

Patchway Sports (H) L 4-1

Hardly remember a thing although I’m sure Scottie scored with a header and we took the lead!  Very surprising.  These are a real bogey side, and I wonder if we’ll ever beat them as we always play badly against them.

Scorer: Matt Scott

MOM: Ben Tuck, Matt Scott (3)

 

Bristol Irish GFA Cup (A) L 1-0

We didn’t really perform, they weren’t up to much and we slumped to their level.  We defended well, but lacked the confidence to play attacking football.  I only remember one chance, and therefore the first game we hadn’t scored in.  Depressing.

Scorer:

MOM: Dave Willett (8)

 

The Billy (A) W 4-3

After losing our one point, we were a little down.  We responded though with a cracking performance, and we played great football to win.  So refreshing to see, for once we didn’t tense up and carried on attacking.  Now our season started…

Scorers: Ryan Parsons (2), Andy Procter, “Dodo” Milanov

MOM: Ryan Parsons (9)

 

Jolly Boys Gilbert Pullin Cup (H) L 2-0

I really wanted to beat another bogey team, and the cup would have been a great first time to do it.  I hate it when we don’t score, no chances created, because of our lacklustre display.  I really don’t remember much from this game.  Next year I would like a CUP RUN PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!

Scorer:

MOM: Dan Milton (4)

 

Bristol Athletic (H) D 1-1

At the time they were bottom, or close to it.  I really felt we should beat these, and after the game I felt we didn’t do ourselves justice.  As it happens they went on a great run, and narrowly missed out on the Runners-Up spot on the last day, so with hindsight I’m pleased with a point.

Scorer: O.G.

MOM: Rich Davis, Ben Tuck (4)

 

The Anchor (H) L 3-0

I don’t remember much about this game, I’ve just looked at the records and I was MOM!  Unlike me.  It was good to put to bed that 18-2 loss, we battled and 3-0 was probably a bit harsh on us.

Scorer:

MOM: Rob Davis (6)

 

Lebeq Reserves (A) L 3-2

A wonderful team performance, we outplayed and outfought Lebeq. We went 2-0 up and took the fight to them.  For once we probably intimidated them more than they us, and to a man we were fantastic.  They scored the last two with 10-15 mins to go; we must learn to close off a game…

Scorers: Aaron Clifford, Rob Davis

MOM: Aaron Clifford, Rob Davis (3)

 

Jolly Boys (H) W 4-0

At last!  We finally beat a bogey team, and did it with our first clean sheet.  We were so buoyant after the previous game, and there was only going to be one winner.  Could have been 10-0.

Scorers: Andy Procter, Aaron Clifford (2), Dodo Milanov

MOM: Aaron Clifford (4)

 

Patchway Sports (A) L 3-2

Our bogey, bogey team.  They went 3-0 up, and we were embarrassing.  At least we didn’t give up, and fought back to 3-2.  I’m glad that we realised we started awfully, and tried to do something about it.  Must beat these one day, they annoy me.

Scorers: Dave Willett, Andy Procter

MOM: Ryan Parsons (8)

 

Bellcelona (A) D 3-3

We were 3-0 up at half time against bottom.  Surely making some tactical changes couldn’t go wrong?  Wrong.  We drew 3-3 after we gave away a late penalty.  Although chances missed, and worse, wrong team decisions when in their defensive third cost us.  Must finish off games…

Scorers: Ian Clark, Dan Milton, Andy Procter

MOM: Alan Froom

 

GE Sports (H) L 1-0

We conceded in the last minute.  A draw would have been good as they were flying, and we were outplayed for long periods.  Players were dejected, but we’d come a long way, loads of positives still to take out of games including this one.  Must close off a game…

Scorer:

MOM: Aaron Clifford (3)

 

Bristol Athletic (A) D 2-2

We knew we were in for a tough game as they were doing well.  We scored twice early on and then proceeded to let them put pressure on us!  They fought back and put us under siege in the second half, we had chances but so did they and George pulled off a great save in the dying minutes.  I was pleased with the players’ attitudes though.  Tom wasn’t happy about coming off; excellent to see, I’ll always give a player a reason for his substitution.  Just not in front of the others.

Scorer: Andy Procter (2)

MOM: Daren Holmes (4)

 

The Billy (H) L 3-0

Night game, half a squad, players let me down on the day, what else did I want?  We were awful 1^st half, but somehow held it at 0-0.  Second half we played much better, created chances and should have taken the lead.  1-0 down though and Froomer decided to have a couple of “moments” in goal = 3-0 loss.

Scorer:

MOM: Ben Tuck (6)

 

Bellcelona (H) W 4-1

A perfect way to end our season.  We bossed them off the park, and how it was only 1-0 at H-T I’ll never know.  For once we didn’t tense up and carried on playing, even when Neil allowed them to equalise by getting politely out of the goalscorer's way, we always knew we’d win.  They tried the usual kicking routine, but we rose above it and them with style.  With that win we secured 7^th, two places off the bottom, amazing when you think back to our first result.

Scorers: Ryan Parsons (2), Andy Procter, Dodo Milanov

MOM: Aaron Clifford (5)

Res Team Overview 2005-2006

I Have Three Words For You,

“Playing As A Team”

Mr Matt Scott,

 5^th Feb 06 ~ Armstrong Security Res

 

The season started all so well, it looked like we were going to continue the form we showed at the end of last season.  With a win and clean sheet over The Castle Reserves in our first game.  But that didn’t last and the whole completion of the team changed.

Pete, Tom, Matt, Jordan, Stu.

2 league wins given to us, 2 games given away, one of them a cup game, emergency committee meeting arranged to decide the future of the reserves and we used 60 different players.

 

Thankfully this isn’t a typical season.

Just the strangest.

 

It’s been a hard season, for everyone. Rob’s mentioned how the first team had to pull themselves together after their first game shock result of 18-2.

I’ve missed the whole season bar two games.

 

After having to give the points to The Railway on 2^nd Oct because we couldn’t raise a side, Rob wasn’t sure if the Reserves could/should go on, Matt Scott wanted to continue with the reserves, we all helped out, Jordan offered to help out, he dropped down from the first team, brought some players in, but the game we won convincingly we got the points taken away from us, as Team Bristol left the league. 

The defeat we suffered from SBJ Rovers in the last reserve game of 2005 saw Jordan move back to the first team, and his players leave the club.

 

2006 saw more changes; we’d already used 42 players for the first half of the season.  Thankfully for the team, the 3^rd ‘batch’ of players were stayers, yes in the remaining 12 games of the season, we’d go on to concede 41 goals, but some games were close. 

 

The Quayside Res game in Henbury, 2 nil down, we got back to 2-2 with goal’s from golden boot winner Rob Handoll, once we equalized looked like only one out come, but the sub I made wasn’t the most sussesfull, Neil managed to take matt out of the game and gave a pen away, we lost 3-2

The less said about the Castle Res game the better, 4-1 loss, Mark Purnell ill and Spins

 

For me the hi-light of the reserves season are the next three games, Armstrong Securities, The Railway and SBJ Rovers.

 

Armstrong Securities Res, we only had 4 players playing today who played in fixture earlier in the season, MOM from that game decided to Ref today.

Both teams had the bare 11, and we scored two great goals to take the first points Armstrong had dropped all season with a 2-2 draw, our goal’s from Steve Handoll and Rich Scott, both were outside the 18yard box.  Steve’s shot went in off the cross bar while Rich’s goal was just like Matt’s half time team talk, inspired.

 

The Railway we lost this game but the stand out moment was Spins, who decided to play today and scored through a 30 yard free kick, which he won.  Spins wrote the match report and said of himself:

Usual mixed bag.  Brilliant one moment, uninterested the next.

 

SBJ Rovers, the 3^rd home game in a row and yet again we had the bare 11, goals from the front two of Rob and Vesey secured the win and a good run of 3 games.

 

Night games never turn out well and this evenings game against Fusion City was no different, think we were 3 nil up and managed to lose 5-3, goals from Spins, Rich and Vesey.

 

In our last 5 games we played two double headers, the first against Mangotsfield.  In the first 5 minutes I think we were 3 nil down, and it didn’t get any better.  In the seconded game we woke up and showed some fight, but we lost 2-0.

 

In the middle of double headers we played Real Bristol, it looked so good, we went ahead through Jay.  But the game ended up a 4-1 defeat.

 

We took 100’s of players to the 3 Lions double header, we took the lead through Rob, but that was to be our only goal, we lost both games.

 

Even thought we’d lost more that we hoped to, the team’s togetherness and team spirit since the turn of the year has kept us going.  Like on the last game of the season, we drove all the way out to Redfield Ranges ground, they couldn’t raise a side, so we all went and had breakfast together and reminisced over the season.

 

The Gaffer wanted the reserves to do well this season, but with all the problems we’ve had, I think we’ve done well to just keep going.

 

If we keep the players who ended this season, next season will be the reserves best.

 

Stu

 

Below: inspirational half time team talk

This is the key, Playing as a team, playing as a team

For the first time for a long long time, we’re out there playing as a team

We all want the ball, we’re all committed

 

Daz, that was ******* brilliant, you don’t even play for us and you put your neck on the line. That’s brilliant, right, that’s what I want to see out there boys.

 

Commitment

Res Players Info

Alan Hodges:-  Defence:  Alan joined The Argonauts late in the season.  However after some impressive displays at full back for the res he earned himself a call up to the first team.  Where he also impressed.  Good strong defender settled in quickly, with a very good footballing brain.  Going to be a good battle for the right-back spot next season.
Played 3 Games

Andy Heaven:- Defence:  Played a handful of games at the start of the season.  Does the simple things right.  Always a joker in the changing room.  Shame the jokes just were not funny!  Reliable but could do with some pace.
Played 6 Games

Ashley Lock:- Midfield:  Lockey was a member of The Argonauts team but failed to turn up for an important league match.  Shame ‘cause it cost him his shirt.  One of the players of the season last year, kicked out this season.
Played 3 Games 1 Goal
           
Ben Tuck:- Defence:  First Team regular (why????????) played a handful of games for the res when we have been short (like tucky).  Good talker who brings confidence to the back four. Hierro like defender.  First player in the close season to be linked to another club.
Played 3 Games

Darren Sims:- Defence:  Daz as he is known to the team was a late find in the season.  Signed on deadline day from White Hart Rangers for a bag of pork strachings. Excellent centre back with good strength always puts body on the line.  Good talker even if most of the time it’s got nothing to do with the game.  Contract being drawn up for next season let’s all hope he signs it.
Played 6 Games

Dobrin Milanov:- Midfield:  Another first team player to play handful of games for res.  Tricky little Bulgarian winger.  With a bit of training could be an exciting prospect.
Played 4 Games

Ian Clarke:- Midfield:  Signed mid way through the season on a free transfer cause he did not have job and had nothing better to do on a Sunday morning but what a great signing.  Can play anywhere in the midfield and up front.  Determined player who has a great future ahead of him for The Argonauts.  Impressive res performances saw him earn a few first team call-ups.  Apparently now works for a brewery so the beers are on Ian.
Played 10 Games 1 Goal

Ian Jay:- Midfield:  The little man was sorely missed when he left to seek employment for JJB sports on a Sunday.  Hopefully will one day return.  Has quality in every department (you should see the size of it) Was the midfield playmaker.
Played 5 Games 2 goals

Jay Balton:- Striker:  Another player to sign late. Jay is the Theo Walcott of The Argonauts at 16 years of age has a great future ahead of him.  Quick and skilful always going to score goals.
Played 3 Games 1Goal

Jon Vesey:- Striker:  Rugby player turned football Jessie.  Has had a great 2^nd half of the season.  Has a good touch and pace. Forming a good partnership with Rob. The pair had a good battle for top scorer missed out by 1 goal.  Should get double figures next season if he plays all season.  Is spending the summer homing his skills by watching England win the World Cup in Germany.  This is a bit odd as Jon hails from the 3^rd world nation of Wales. Sheep sheep sheep sha**er.
Played 8 Games 3 Goals

John Wood:- Midfield:  Struggled for fitness in early season.  Once a great gifted Midfield now a Fat C**t.  Bombed out of the club for not turning up.  Missed throughout the club for his heavy presences and changing room banter.
Played 3 Games

Jordan Goodchild:- Midfield:  First team player who mid way through the season had an un-successful stint as player manager.  Brought in some good players but it never really worked out.  First Manager to try and make a team of piss heads warm up before a game. Tricky little winger.  Back in the first team where he belongs.

Played 4 Games

Keith Bromley:- Defence:  AKA the Doc.  The doc is the heart of the defence and team captain.  Solid as a rock and quality going forward. Always willing to blame others for his mistakes.  Was sorely missed at the end of the season when he chipped off to the USA. A trip paid for by you and I, the taxpayer.  Bloody students. 
Played 10 Games 1 Goal

Luke Fitzpatrick:- Goalkeeper:  Signed at the same time as Daz on loan from White Hart Rangers till the end of the season.  Brilliant shot stopper  who could go a long way with this club.  Started the season with The Argonauts but due to poor fitness got lost on a training run and was never seen again ‘til March.  Argonauts management team will be talking to Luke’s team of agents over the summer to try and sign Luke up for the forthcoming season.
Played 8 Games

Mark Purnell:- Defence:  Spotted on a scouting mission by the Scott brothers after being released by Fishponds Town.  The old head of the team brings experience and reliability to the back four.  Injury prone but that could be put down to age.  Got a few seasons left in him yet.  Solid defender always looking to push forward. 
Played 10 Games

Matt Judson:- Defence:  One of the players signed under the Goodchild regime.  Quality full back would have been player of the season if he did not up and leave for London.  Also quite handy with a badminton racquet.
Played 3 Games 1 Goal

Matt Palmer:- Defence:  Matt is a superb defender who oozes quality on the ball. It’s a shame that due to the fact he enjoys running around a wood looking for white post with letters on he does not play often enough for us. Sometimes wasted in defence. Currently dossing in Sheffield.  Hopefully will be back in time for the start of the new campaign.
Played 7 Games
 

Matt Scott:- Midfield:  Star of the team, immense in everyway.  The midfield enforcer who controls the game.  Great talker and has the respect of the whole team.  Quality on the ground and in the air.  Is a better looking version of  England world cup star Peter Crouch.  Formed a great partnership with Mike Fitzy. Showed touches of his quality for the first team with, probably goal of the season against Patchway Town. Yes I did write this myself.  If you lot don’t believe this all I have to say is truth hurts.  Happy to confirm will be running the res again next season.  Subject to pay rise.
Played 17 Games

Mike Fitzpatrick:- Midfield:  Started season in first team but lost his place due to long term injury.  Made his comeback early in 2006 for the res and has been quality for the res every since.  Formed a formidable partnership with Matt Scott.  Mike being the attacking part of the duo.  Sometimes thinks he is David Beckham with his 40-yard balls.  Will be a great asset to the target men next season.
Played 8 Games

Neil Daley:- Goalkeeper:  Goodchild signed Neil for his 2nd stint at the club.  Reliable Goalkeeper who communicated well to his defence. 
Played 3 Games

Neil Gardiner:- Defence:  Neil is another first teamer always willing to help the res out when without a game.  We just wish he wouldn’t!  Good defaender always reliable. Sometimes fancies himself between the sticks.  Lost more hair though this season than we lost games.  Clubs top appearance maker.  I would like to thank him for a great stag do in the early part of the season.
Played 5 Games

Paul Ashford:- Striker:  Played a handful of games under the Goodchild dictatorship.  Good goals to game ratio.
Played 3 Games 1 Goal

Paul Gonzo White:- Defence/Striker:  Paul fancies himself as a striker, shame he could not finish his dinner.  Lacks confidence in front of goal, would not know what the back of the net was if it smacked him in the face.  After given a chance up front early on Paul moved back to defence.  Where he played some of his best football.  Has good strength on the ball and is always willing to throw a few tricks, turns and step overs into his game.  Also played a few games on the right where his electric pace has caused problems.  Important part of the team who needs to learn to talk and finish. 

Played for first team as well.
Played 19 Games

Pete Fowler:- Defence:  Quality defender with County League experience.  Got back with his bird so stopped playing Sunday football.
Played 3 Games 1 Goal

Richard Scott:- Defence/Striker:  Good versatile player with good vision.  If he played more games probably would have won an award but he has been too busy building mud huts in Africa.  Should win an award for most memorable part of the season, 2-2 to top of the table who had won every game they had played in.  Rich won the ball just outside his half did a couple of players and with 40 yards from goal let one fly. BANG!  Get in what a goal.  Some might say a fluke but they all count.  Can play anywhere across the back four with confidence or up front.
Played 13 Games 2 Goals

Rich Williams:- Midfield:  Energetic winger always looking for a game.  Only played a few games this season. Will surely play more games next season
Played 4 Games

Rob Davis:- Midfield:  The Gaffer has helped the res out a few times this season when his beloved first team pounces have not had a game.  Brings nothing to the team.  Complete loser.  On a serious note  Top drawer defender has great distribution.  Sometimes talks a good game.  Club would be nothing without him.  Life and soul of the club we all owe a lot to him.  Cheers, now time to retire and become a ref.
Played 4 Games

Rob Handoll:- Striker:  Top scorer in the team this season.  Settled into team really quickly.  Been quality up front, formed a great partnership with the Welsh wizard Jon.  Is always looking to score.  With a full season next year should be hitting the 20 goal mark.  Went missing near the end of the season to Asia.  Did he come back with a Thai bride?
Played 7 Games 4 Goals
 
Ross Holbrook:- Winger/Striker:  One Minute best player on the pitch next the worst sometimes we don’t even know if he is on the pitch.  This has earned Spins the nickname of Laurent Robert.  So gifted but so lazy.  Was rumoured if Redfield game snowed off in Feb had of gone ahead, Spins would have been dropped for a snowman.  Important part of the team turns up for every night out just forgets to turn up the next morning.  Complete joker of the changing room if he puts shampoo in my hair once more I swear I am going to kill him.  Has a great left peg and on his day is a quality player.  Scored a superb Free-Kick against the hated SBJ Rovers.  Thanks for the match reports.
Played 16 Games 2 Goals

Ross Terry:- Midfield:  Left the club during the trouble times at the start of the season.  Quality player with a great footballing brain.  Out of all the players to leave during that spell,  Ross is the most sorely missed.  Door is always open for a return.
Played  3 Games

Simon Preen:- Goalkeeper/ anywhere:  Played at least one game in every season for the res.  This though probably his last.  Bombed out at start of season.  Always a joker and his character is missed around the team.  Rumoured to be setting up own team.  Needs to lose a few pounds.
Played 3 Games

Steve :- Striker:  The Man with no surname.  Signed at the end of the season looks as if he could be useful for next season. Has pace and power.
Played 3 Games

Steve Handoll:- Defender/Midfield:  Signed at the same time as brother Rob mid way through the season. Played at left back and left wing. Great player who has gone from strength to strength, settled in well to the team.  Always looking to push forward.  Reliable defender with a great future ahead of him at the club.  Sure we will see a lot more from him next season.
Played 10 Games 1 Goal

Steve Richardson:- Defender:  Another of Goodchilds signings.  Great full back always looked quality on the ball.  Left when Jordan resigned as Manager.
Played 3 Games

Tanvwyer Hussan:- Defence/Goalkeeper:  Somebody that Paul White found in Tesco’s car park.  Showed good early promise as a defender early on in his career.  Switched to Gk but found chances limited due to loan signing Luke dominance in Goal.
Played 5 Games

Van:- Defence/Midfield/Striker:  Makes great sandwiches so I have been told.  Left club under a cloud after a run in with our former tyrant boss Jordan. 
Played 3 Games

Stu Gardiner:- Striker:  Chances have been limited this season due to a serious knee injury.  Great ambassador for the club has turned up every week to cheer us on from the touchline.  Without this man there would be no web site and no stats to talk about.  Keep up the good work Stu.  Looks a bit gay at the moment due to his long flowing locks!  Now Asst Manager working in partnership with Matt Scott.
Played 2 Games