Club Notes 11 September 2017

With Seniors' manager, Luke Hillyard's, departure to Eastern Counties Leaguers, Ipswich Wanderers, still a shock to the system, there was understandable concern in Achilles' ranks about Saturday's home clash against 2016/17 SIL Senior League champs', Henley FC.

Hasty arrangements had been made to promote assistant manager, Andy Coote, to the top position and with an extended management team in the Club, including main sponsor, Trevor Childs, as coach/trainer, Jamie King, assistant manager, and Chris Crick and Reece Nunn, Inter As' managers, the scene was set for the visit of the "Champs" against Achilles the runners-up.

Before a sizeable crowd a "no holds barred" battle commenced although, despite scares at both ends, the half-time break arrived with no goals registered but a "mighty" contest witnessed. The second period followed a similar pattern until Lee Grimwood was tripped in the area and although, for the second match in succession, Liam Hillyard's powerfully hit shot was brilliantly parried by the 'keeper, only for Gav' Van Oene to header in the rebound superbly from an acute angle. This brought about severe pressure from the Henley outfit and Achilles were indebted to Shaun Chaplin for some superb stops under the "sticks". Suddently, the outcome of the match was beyond doubt when within minutes of one another Lee and Sean Hanley slotted in similar rebound efforts after, in both situations, some silky Achilles' play.

With the 1st round of the SFA Senior Cup due next Saturday, when Eastern Counties Leaguers, Framlingham Town, will be welcomed to Salmet Close, this result was a real moral booster for everyone at Achilles - the objective being, of course, the retention of the trophy Achilles won at Portman Road at the end of last season.

Clearly, the win was a real team effort, maintaining our 100% record in both pre-season friendlies and the SIL Senior League but particular mention must be made of 'keeper Shaun Chaplin who was simply outstanding between the "sticks".

Meanwhile, the Inter As were over at Henley meeting their counterparts and the "miracle" continues. By that it's meant that, from a fear that Achilles would not be able to field a "second string" this season, the hard work of, in particular, Jamie King, in "rounding up" prematurely retired Achilles' stars of yesteryear continues its success, this time with a 5-0 drubbing of their hosts. Following his hat tricks in the earlier home successes against the Inter As of Sporting 87 and East Bergholt, Matt McCarthy had to be content with just a brace, also registered by "Polar" Deller, with the fifth coming from new signing, Karl Grant.

Finally, one thing is clearly certain for this level of competition - who needs Veterans' football on Sundays when those "old guys" can enjoy success on a Saturday afternoon. I would be concerned about trying both in the same week-end!