Club Notes 10 September 2019

The two squads high-scoring starts to the season continued last Saturday with the Seniors sharing eight goals in an entertaining draw with visitors Bourne Vale Utd while the Reserves away at Claydon shared no fewer than 15 goals, the only problem being our hosts took eight of those in a "once in a moon" situation.

Another excellent crowd was at Salmet Close to enjoy an excellent 90 minutes shared with our near neighbours. Overall there is little doubt that Achilles had more clear-cut chances than Bourne Vale but, at the end of the day, its goals that count and it would be wrong to deny our visitors a share of the spoils.In addition to the sparkling football, the three officials combined so well so that, in particular, those in the gathered throng, who were not connected to either Club, nevertheless, were treated to a fine afternoon's football. Achilles' marksmen were Ryan Wragg, Ivan Buxton, Sean Hanley, and Liam Hillyard, the latter making a triumphant return to his favourite Club.

Meanwhile, over at Claydon, it might have been fairer if the points also could have been shared between the two combatants but it wasn't to be in a situation where increasingly, in the second period, our lads appeared to be on the wrong end of some perplexing decisions. Marksmen were David Grimwood, Lee Grimwood, Jamie Steel (each notching two), and Joe Hanley.

This coming Saturday the Seniors travel across town to the Ipswich Wanderers complex where Coplestonians, unbeaten this term thus far, now perform. The Reserves have a vacant date. The following Saturday Eastern Counties Leaguers, Lakenheath FC will be our visitors at Salmet Close for a !st round tie in the Suffolk Senior Cup - a trophy Achilles are so proud to mention that, over the past three seasons, has been held aloft twice as winners at Portman Road by delighted Achillians.

Finally, a mention of the sad death of John Gilkes who was a fine cricketer with Achilles for several seasons going way back. The Club was well represented at a crowded funeral service and our condolences go out to John's widow and extended family.