MANGROVE FOOTBALL CLUB

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey

MANGROVE V BUNTINGFORD COUGARS

SCORE - HT 0-1 FT 1-1 - Scorer:Stuart Smille 82 Mins

With a rushed preparation due to players turning up late, Mangrove kicked off the season with 9 new players in the squad, and, as expected they took a little time to gel. The Mangrove men got of the worst start possible, going a goal behind after just 6 minutes. The goal came about through a number of errors and the wrong positioning. The ball went though so a Cougars forward in a one-on-one situation with Sean Davies, the Mangrove keeper. Sean came out quickly and saved at his feet but Lady Luck did not favour Mangrove as the ball rebounded straight to another Cougars player who rolled it in to an empty net. For the next 15 minutes Mangrove struggled to find rhythm and feet. Thereafter, Mangrove’s three new Joe’s starting to settle in midfield, with Joe Whittaker’s pace giving Cougars problems on the right. The defence also started to settle, being marshalled well by skipper Chris Girdlestone, and then Jack Bruno coming more and more into the game on the left of midfield. The second part of the 1st half was very even with few chances at either end.

The second half saw a re-vitalised Mangrove, displaying a different attitude, full of purpose and intent, pushing forward at every opportunity. Joe Anderson started to impose himself on the game. Mangrove looked dangerous every time they went forward, and chances started to come. Joe Whittaker and Jack Bruno were denied by good Cougars goal keeping, and Alex Brown came close firing just wide. Joe Gough, who had a fine debut in midfield ran himself ragged, and was replaced by Martin Melia who carried on where Joe left off. The same can be said of debutant Joe Whittaker and his replacement, another new boy, Luke Kalarus. The fresh legs of Martin and Luke had a positive impact on the game. The chances continued to come but the ball did not find the back of the net. With 15 minutes remaining, a bold and positive management tactical change saw Mangrove use only three at the back, throwing sub Luke Morris on as an extra forward, with right back James Malin making way. The move paid dividends five minutes later when a brave challenge by Luke Morris on the Cougars keeper saw the ball break loose to Stuart Smillie who made sure of the equaliser. Mangrove pushed on seeking to win the game, with the best chance again falling to Stuart but this time he just failed to convert. In the closing minutes, where the Luck was against Mangrove for the goal conceded early on, it repaid the debt as Cougars, who had offered very little going forward in the second half, had a late attempt from outside the box hit the underside of the bar and bounce clear. Keeper Sean claimed, of course, he had it covered (ahem!). On the balance of play Mangrove deserved to win and the players were disappointed not to. That said, a draw in the first match with virtually a new squad is not to be sniffed at.

Man of the Match: Joe Anderson

(Joe played very well but so did everyone who got on the pitch in the second half – more of that please)

Match day squad: S Davis; P Zipfell; J Malin ( L Morris ); J Gough (M Melia); C Girdlestone; S Scott; J Whittaker ( L Kalarus); J Bruno; S Smillie; A Brown; J Anderson. Subs not used: C Warman; P Sharkey