Tigers salvage a point against strong Spa side

Hykeham Tigers provided a strong and spirited display after going a goal down early, to draw 1-1 with Woodhall Spa United. Another goal for James Coffey earned them the point.

The Tigers lined up with a unfamiliar formation to that of recent weeks with a 4-5-1 formation preferred to try and limit the threat of the Woodhall Spa midfield. Kris Nelson started in goal again after a fantastic display against Waddington. Newton, Sturton, McCusker and Wilson made up the back four. A Midfield of Coffey, Robertson, Marshall, Sievwright and Steadman, and Pete Dickinson up front completed the line up. Ash Murphy and an unfortunate James O’Callaghan were on the bench.

The Tigers started the game very slowly and were lucky not to be a goal down within a few minutes when a strike for the Woodhall striker narrowly missed the post. However, a few minutes they were in front. Too much time for the Woodhall centre midfielder allowed him to clip a ball over the head of Left Back Matt Wilson, and then the Woodhall Spa midfielder hit a superb volley which not many keepers in most leagues would have saved and Kris Nelsons efforts were in vain. Woodhall continued to press and forced the Tigers on the back foot, with lots of pressure on the back four. However, trouble for Tigers ensued after 20 minutes when Pete Dickinson went up for a header and suffered a nasty gash on his nose, stopping him from being able to see and therefore had to be substituted with James O’Callaghan moving on to the left wing and Coffey moving up front.

This changed the Tigers immediately and they began to look dangerous. James was taking on the full back of Spa with relative ease and getting in his head in the process. With fifteen minutes left of the first half, Cam Robertson played a delightful through ball through to an onrushing Coffey who slid the ball past the keeper to make it 1-1 before half time. Tigers came close again with Sam Newton having a header saved off the line by the Woodhall Defender. Finally , more drama at the end of the half with Matt Wilson receiving a cowardly elbow to the face which resulted in a yellow card for the Woodhall winger and for Matt Wilson’s retaliation, a yellow card too. Half time 1-1.        

The second half was a very even affair with both teams creating little chances and not much action occurring. During the second half, Matt Wilson and Rob McCusker had to come off with Injuries and hopefully this won’t see them out for too long.  Tigers came close several times to taking the lead, and so did Woodhall, however the game petered out into a 1-1 draw, which was a good draw considering the circumstances.

Man of the Match- Paul Sturton

Dick of The Day- Rob McCusker

Next Game: FVA Jerusalem Reserves (Away) 30^th September 2012 10.45AM

Anyone For Coffey?

Hykeham Tigers extended their unbeaten start to the season with a fine 2-0 win over Waddington in Tough conditions. A brace from James Coffey saw the Tigers seal a comfortable win, and make it 2 wins out of 2 in the League.

Hykeham Tigers started with several new and returning faces with Green, and Coffey starting their first league games for the club after their summer moves to the club. The Tigers lined up in their typical 3-5-2 formation, with Kris Nelson filling in for Number one keeper James Pickering in Goal. Matt Wilson, Ian Sievwright, Rob McCusker,Sam Newton and James O'Callaghan making up the back 5. Cameron Robertson, Daniel Daubney and James Coffey made up the midfield and Pete Dickinson and Greeny Started up front.

After a poor first half where neither team could get the crucial breakthrough, Tigers came closest hitting the bar three times, twice from James O'Callaghan who was causing the Waddington side a real problem, constantly marauding down the left wing. At half time the score was 0-0.

Second half was a much different affair, but the game could have much different if Matt Wilson hadnt made two vital interceptions to stop the Waddington left back slotting in from 6 yards. Five minutes later the Tigers took the lead and after some poor Waddington Defending, Coffey slammed the ball past the keeper to make it 1-0.

The Tigers then were under pressure for long periods, and defended well. On the break, a free kick from Cam Robertson was flicked on by Coffey into the bottom corner, and 2-0 to the Tigers. This is how the game finished.

Man Of The Match- Matt Wilson (5 Votes)
Dick of The Day- Ian Sievwright (5 Votes)
Next Game: Woodhall Spa Utd (Home)

Tigers Tame The Eagle

Hykeham Tigers pulled off a shocked result last night with a well fought 3-3 draw against Premier League title contenders CW Golden Eagle. 2 goals from Kenco and one from Cam Robertson saw the Tigers gain a memorable point.

Manager Chris Elliott had plenty to choose from with as many as 19 players available for the game including a few new faces and the return to pre season of Craig Froggatt, Daniel Daubney and James Pickering after a period of extended leave. Chris Elliott named a changed side with the following players starting; Reid, Plaskett, McCusker, Sturton, Noel, Nelson, Sievwright, Kenco, Froggatt, Murphy and ...  . On the bench was Wilson, Daubney, Robertson, Pickering, Fatchett, O’Callaghan, Duncan and Myers.

Hykeham Started the game well, but struggled to keep possession of the ball, and were quite wasteful when going forward. Eagle started the brighter in the opening exchanges and Reid was called into action early on, tipping over an Eagle free kick. But it was Tigers that opened the scoring, with Kenco hitting a shot low into the bottom corner from the edge of the area, giving keeper Andy Smallcombe no chance of saving it.

Things looked good for the Tigers until 10 minutes later, when a brilliant run from the Eagle winger and a wonderfully clipped ball, created a simple header into an empty net for the Eagle Striker. 1-1 after 30 minutes. However, Hykeham hit straight back again, and after a corner was flicked on at the front post, Kenco was on hand again to turn the ball in low past the keeper to make it 2-1 to the Tigers. The Tigers should have closed the half out, but after Kris Nelson hobbled off, the Tigers conceded on the stroke of half time. Another cross, and a good finish made it 2-2 at the break.

Wholesale changes at the start of the second half with Myers, Duncan, Wilson, Robertson, Pickering, Daubney, O’ Callaghan, and Fatchett all introduced. The Tigers bossed the first twenty minutes of the second half with Wilson, Robertson and Duncan controlling the game. The Tigers were more productive in possession of the ball, and were keeping the ball for long periods. With 60 minutes gone, Cam Robertson picked up the ball on the edge of the area, and fired a strike off the right hand post and into the net leaving the keeper again with no chance. 3-2 to the Tigers.  

Again, the Tigers couldn’t hold out and after some sustained pressure they conceded the final goal of the game. James Pickering had a fantastic second half display after his extended break, and looked solid in goal. The game petered out and both teams missed chances to win it. Overall, a good display from the Tigers against a very strong team which should stand us in good stead for the season upcoming.

Ratings

Reid- 7/10- Comfortable display, made a few good saves, and talked well.

Plaskett- 7/10- Typical Robust game, good with the ball, and good in the tackle

McCusker- 8/10- Strong in the air, comfortable with taking the ball from the back, developing a good partnership with Paul Sturton.

Sturton- 8/10- Similar to Rob, Strong in the air, assured and committed as always. A real captains performance.

Noel- 7/10- Steady Eddie. Looked comfortable in possession, got caught a few times around the outside, but dealt well with the threat of Eagles best player.

Nelson- 9/10- Joint MOM- Superb performance in the Defensive midfield role. Won lots of headers, and looked calm and assured in possession

Sievwright- 7/10- Full blooded committed display, wasteful in possession at times but when lost worked extremely hard to win it back.

Kenco- 8/10- Two good goals, looked productive but could have kept the ball better at times instead of rushing the final ball.

Froggatt- 7/10- Struggled to get in to the game, didn’t have a lot of the ball first half, but still worked hard to try and get it and distributed it well.

Murphy- 7/10- Steady performance, looked laboured at times, but made some good runs giving an option to always clip over the left full back.

Smithy- 7/10- Worked hard, could have ran the channels a bit more, but gave everything to the cause.

Substitutes

Pickering- 8/10- Superb second half display, made some crucial saves and was commanding in the box.

Wilson- 8/10- Kept the ball well in tight areas, and worked well with Cam and Ally in Centre Midfield, Linked well with Daubs as well.

Daubney- 8/10- Solid performance when called upon, talked well and lead the front line superbly. Offered a different outball.

Robertson- 9/10-  Joint MOM- Only played second half, but was extremely efficient with and without the ball. Looked assured in possession and created chance after chance.

Myers- 8/10- A strong performance on the wing, looked dangerous and was extremely committed to the cause.

Duncan- 8/10- Good on the ball, kept things simple and worked hard off the ball, a good display.

Fatchett- 8/10- Strong, Quick and Productive. Listened well as well.

O’Callaghan- 8/10- Looked quick, and exciting when all the ball. Going forward looked good, but looked uncomfortable defending. Possibly needed moving to left wing.

Next Game- Versus AFC West End- Sunday Morning 10.45 Kick Off 9.45 Meet. NK School.

Tigers Appoint Elliott

Hykeham Tigers Football Club will appoint Chris Elliott to be their next manager. The 29-year-old, who led Plough Skellingthorpe to the title several seasons ago with a passing game that made the club many friends, has signed a three-year deal at Hykeham, the BBC reports.

The Hykeham club will pay up to £5 million to Plough in compensation for Elliott, who has emerged over the last couple of days as the club's favoured manager from a pack that included one-time boss Johnno, Saxilbys Ryan Beaumont, the sacked Crows manager Kris Nelson and former Trinidad and Tobago Captain Daniel Daubney.

Elliott had initially turned down the opportunity to speak to Hykeham about the opportunity, which opened up after the Fen Laner's released club legend Darren Giovannetti – who was in his second season at Hykeham as manager – on May 16 following a season deemed inadequate by the club's Polish owners, Sturtonzi Sports Group.

Elliott dismissed Hykeham's initial approach by SSG maintained their interest in the Englishman, despite some claims - notably from Inter Milan chairman  - that Giovannetti had been re-offered the job. Prior to his success at Plough, Elliott had managed Jerusalem and led them to league glory too.

Hykeham Tigers fans will be keen to see an end to the managerial merry-go-round at their club, as Elliott becomes the fourth manager in the last three years.

Tigers Maul The Eagle

Hykeham Tigers won their first pre-season friendly with a resounding 7-3 win against AFC Golden Eagle in their annual Mid-June Exhibition Game.

The game was a chance for the Tigers to look at some prospective signings and give some players interested in joining the club a chance to see what the Tigers could offer them. Matt Wilson picked the side for the game, and went for a 4-3-3 formation with the following players picked;

GK- Sam Clucas

LB- Mark Plaskett

CB- Matt Wilson

CB- Daniel Daubney

RB- Sam Newton

DM- Kris Nelson

CM- Ally Duncan

CM- Josh Raby

RW- Andy Myers

LW- Craig Froggatt

ST- Paul Sturton

SUB- Mark Newton

SUB- Switch

SUB- Aaron Starbuck
SUB- Ashley Murphy
SUB- Nick Steadman
SUB- Callum Fatchett

Paul Sturton was put up front in his natural position after spending most of the last season at Centre Back. He has swapped positions with Daniel Daubney who moved back into Centre back to partner Matt Wilson at the heart of the defence.  Trialist Josh Raby started in Centre Midfield, with stand in goalkeeper Sam Clucas helping the club out in Goal.

Tigers started the match well, and were controlling possession whilst also dealing with some fair pressure from Eagle. The back four had started well, and after 15 minutes the Tigers opened the lead. With a cutting through ball, Sturton broke one on one with ex Tigers keeper Chris Bennett and confidently looped the ball passed him to open the Tigers Season.

5 Minutes later, it was 2-0 , this time after a Corner and some head tennis in the area, Centre back Matt Wilson hit the ball on the turn and volley, and left Bennett rooted to his spot as the ball sailed into the far corner of the net. 2-0 and the Tigers looked very comfortable.

Goals followed in the first half from the head of a despairing Eagle centre back and Aaron Starbuck scoring with his first touch after coming on. The Tigers had raced into a 4-0 lead after 40 minutes, and looked good value for their lead. Kris Nelson had a superb first half, winning lots of headers in the centre of midfield. However, on the stroke of half time, Eagle striker span off Daubney and smashed a shot into the top corner and left Clucas stranded with no chance of saving it.  4-1 at Half time.

The second half was a much different affair, but still saw Tigers score three more. Changes kept happening, and the Tigers lost their flow in the game. However two goals from Callum Fatchett, and another Paul Sturton goal saw the Tigers hit Seven, but Two Goals more for the same Eagle striker saw him complete his hat trick and see a final score of 7-3 to the Tigers.

All in all, a impressive first performance against a side with some good young players in it who I feel will do well in Division Three next season.

Pre-Season training starts a week on Sunday, details on the site soon

Giovannetti Leaves Tigers

Today it emerged that Darren Giovannetti, has left Hykeham Tigers by mutual consent.

Darren Giovannetti,38, has managed the Hykeham outfit for two years but sources at the club today confirmed that Giovannetti would be leaving the club with immediate effect, leaving the Tigers managerless in the build up to the 2012/2013 Pre-Season. The reason's for Giovannetti's departure are still unknown however it is rumoured that he has taken a job in a lower division with Shakespeare BBH.

No-one was the club was available for comment regarding this issue, but it looks like the managerial merry go round will be hitting Hykeham this summer. There are several names in the frame to take over from Giovannetti, with caretaker manager from last season Daniel Daubney in the frame, along with ex Louth Town manager Carl Wall, and ex Plough Skellingthorpe manager Chris Elliott. Elliott seems the favourite amongst the bookies for the job, after already previously winning Division Two with his previous club. The bookmakers have the following odd's:

Chris Elliott- 3/1
Carl Wall- 5/1
Johnno- 11/2
Daniel Daubney- 6/1
Kenny Dalglish- 7/1
Kris Nelson- 100/1
Craig Froggatt-250/1

Leagues Announced

At 9pm last night, the news broke live on Sky Sports News that Hykeham Tigers have been placed in Division 2 for the 2012/2013 Season.

After a successful season last term, in which the Tigers reached the last 8 of the Cup, and Finished Joint 3rd in the league, they have risen a league into Divsion 2. The league is jammed full of familiar teams with 7 of the 11 other teams in the league, the Tigers have faced in either cup or league competition over the last two years.

The league format also see's Hykeham Tigers reunited with old foe, Saxilby Athletic. The last time the two sides met it ended in a 30 man supporter and player melee which neither team will want to see repeated when the two sides meet. The league also see's Hykeham Plough move up several divisions, and they could really be a side to watch in the upcoming season.

These are the teams the Tigers will face;
AFC Rustons
FVA Jerusalem Res
Green Barrel
Hykeham Plough
Hykeham Tigers
Plough Sturton
RM Imps
Saxilby Athletic
The George Mkt Rasen
The Turks Head
Waddington Utd
Woodhall Spa Utd

Tigers Chairman Andy Farrer commented on the league's decison. "It is a real credit to the Players, Management and Staff of the club that we started from scratch 2 season's ago, and have been promoted 3 leagues in two season. The lads have done extremely well, but now is time to push on further, and we need to grab the bull by the horns and really sieze the opportunity"

Tigers Announce Lucrative Sponsorship Deal

Hykeham Tigers today announced a bumber 4 Figure Sponsorship deal with Online Kit Supplier, Discountfootballkits.com. The deal is said to be worth in excess of £4,500 to the club and will see the sponsor become Home, Away and Training Kit Sponsor for the 2012/2013 Season

Discountfootballkits.com released a prototype of the potential kit that Hykeham Tigers will be playing in this season.

Season 2012/2013 Kits?

More to follow on this story....

Steadman Left Out By Hodgson

Today, Roy Hodgson shook the football world, and left Hykeham Tiger talisman Nick Steadman out of his 25 man squad for the European Championships this summer in the Ukraine.

Hodgson named his 25 man squad this afternoon, and there were some surprise inclusions and exclusions for the squad. Rio Ferdinand was omitted from the side for what Hodgson described as football reasons but refused to comment when asked why “obvious choice” Steadman was left out. This has fuelled rumours further than Steadman has had a fall out with boss Hodgson, potentially over his involvement with ex Lincoln City professional Dean Walling and Hodgson’s refusal to let Steadman leave training early to attend Walling’s football training with close friend Big Dave.

Steadman has so far refused to comment on the issue, but this is undoubtedly the last we will see regarding this controversial exclusion, and is set to bubble on throughout the summer. Steadman is seen as a bit of a bad boy within the Tigers camp, and has been labelled the “Joey Barton” of the Tigers team, for having a temper shorter than his height, which isn’t very tall! What will fuel Steadman’s fire even more is that Tiger’s team mate and close friend Ian Sievwright earned a place in Hodgson’s squad for the Championships. When asked about Sievwright’s involvement, Hodgson said the following

“Ian (Sievwright) is a model professional, never late, and not the sort to lose his head after 5 minutes of a game. His excellent passing range, and his ability to get forward and score goals and create goals from nothing was a key reason for this decision”

There was two other inclusions in National teams for this months up and coming Internationals with Paul Sturton being selected as captain for the Poland national team after a number of impressive performances this season. Secondly, Daniel Daubney has been selected to play for the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African Cup Qualifiers this summer.

Squad For Sunday Vs Newton United

Giova-spaghetti has announced his 15 man squad of Sunday's Crunch Game versus Newton United FC. The team is as follows;

James Pickering
Craig Froggatt
Matt Wilson
Paul Sturton
Andy Myers
Nick Steadman
Chris Bennett
Sam Newton
Michael Cruickshank
Ashley Murphy
Ian Sievwright
Daniel Daubney
Kris Nelson
Callum Fatchett
Mark Plaskett

Meet at 9.30am, at Carholme Road Grandstand. No Latecomers please, as we are having to record our crossbar challenge again.

See you Sunday Lads
Matt

Giovannetti Dips Into Coffers in January Transfer Window

Hykeham Tigers have today completed the signing of  Nick Steadman after the Midfielder accepted their offer of a transfer from Division Two Outfit, Ruston Eagles. 

The 21-year-old, who left  Ruston Eagles after a falling out with the heirarchy at the Eagle and at the end of the Veikkausliiga season, had successful trial spells at Fen Lane.

Steadman told Tiger's website that he had a couple of other options.

"But as soon as I knew Hykeham Tigers were interested then it was always going to be my number one choice," he said.

"I am now going to do my best to challenge for a place in the first team and I'll see where it goes from there. I have only been training for a short time, but I really like the place, the manager is great and it's a cracking group of players."

The figure attached to the deal is said to be undisclosed however rumours of a £4.50 fee, and also a lesson on kicking with Chris Bennett was said to be the deciding factor on Steadman's move. However, there has been talk of some strange personal terms including never to hear Kris Nelson sing, and also everyone must chip in a £1 a week to get Aaron Starbuck some weight loss pills. Steadman is after an extended contract in the new year with the Hykeham Outfit

"If something could materialise in the next few months, or at the end of the season, that would be great," said Steadman. "But first I need to prove myself and I am hoping to do that."

Giovannetti was keen to comment on the signing;

"Nick is a strong, battling and grafting midfielder, he's exactly what we need in the run in to the end of the season. I've got a few more deals up my sleeve but we'll see how things go up until then"

First, though, he will be pushing for a place in the squad to face Newton United in a crunch Divison Three game on Sunday

Don't Wear Orange Scarfs in Rasen- Tigers Chiefs Warn Fans

Hykeham Tigers bosses have taken the dramatic step of writing to all fans travelling to Market Rasen for Sundays Vital Division Three match to urge them to take safety measures.

The Tigers take on Rasen in Market Rasen – where visiting supporters have previously been subjected to vicious cauliflower attacks along with other acts of a six fingered nature.

In a letter to the 800 fans who bought tickets for the match, club officials have urged them:

• Not to wear club shirts or scarves
• To avoid no-go areas – including the train station and the city centre
• To stay in large groups 
• And to use special shuttle buses being laid on from 10am to take them to the stadium for Sunday’s match

It is the first time Tigers have issued such advice. The move comes after four Newton United supporters were slashed with carrots and poked with Garden Forks outside Rasen Park stadium before a Division Three match last month.

There were numerous reports of carrot-weilding thugs on tractors carrying out vicious assaults and two more Newton fans were stabbed with Carrots in the village centre. Last year three Sturton fans were knifed - with two hospitalised - when they visited Market Rasen to take on Rasen in the Fred Quibbell Cup

Worried Hykeham Tigers officials drew up the advice after meeting officials from police at home and in Rasen. The Hykeham Tigers Official Site also understands the club has also taken advice from the Lincoln consulate in Rasen as well as Newton, Sturton and Welton Sport And Social - who sent out similar written guidelines before the Blues travelled to Rasen in 2007.

Tiger's letter – signed by operations manager Andy Farrer – says fans should 'take care and use common sense' and 'travel in groups where possible'. It includes consulate advice to stay away from the 'no-go' areas and adds: “We would also advise you to not wear club colours away from the game, particularly when taking public transport.” 

Tensions around the televised encounter are set to be high as defeat could see Rasen's chances of achieving anything this season completely dashed. No alcohol will be served inside the ground and Tigers supporters will be locked in after the final whistle for 45 minutes. Buses will again be waiting again to take them back to Varsity. Photographic ID will be needed to gain entry along with a valid ticket.

We've got Plough

The draw for the Domestic Cups were made on Sunday, with The Tigers drawing Plough Bracebridge of Division Six. 

Division Three Hykeham Tigers face Plough Bracebridge on the 18th of December hoping for a comfortable progression into the next round of the Fred Quibbell Cup. Things look promising for the Tigers with the Plough languishing second to bottom in the leagues Basement Division. After 8 games, Plough have only scored 6 goals and have conceded 24, an average of 3 a game, something that the Tigers defence has only shipped once this season in the County Cup.

The Tigers have drawn Welton AFC in the Ron Eaglen Cup and this looks to pose the biggest threat to Hykeham's Sincil Bank dreams with Welton riding high in Division Two. Scoring Goals for fun and winning games like second nature. Things couldn't have got much harder in that cup for the Tigers but you have to beat the best to progress. Welton will travel to Fen Lane on the 11th December. 

Giovannetti- "No Room For Complacency"

Hykeham Tigers manager Darren Giovannetti spoke out today about the season so far and his thoughts on it. Giovannetti stressed the importance to kick on from their current position and not rest on their laurels.


Giovannetti was speaking after a weekend were Hykeham Tigers had a rest and a team-bonding trip to Amsterdam and in preparation for a huge game against rivals Market Rasen on Sunday. Giovannetti said

"We have started the season superbly, only loosing two games out of the 11 we have played including cup games. We are slightly dissapointed at drawing to Burton's twice, because they are points we should have really taken with both hands."


"We're currently third with the chance to move into second, with a good performance on Sunday. Complacency is something that we need to eradicate and quickly, no-one's position is safe in the team and we have a lot of strength in depth within the team."


"There is no such thing as coulda, should or would. If you shoulda and coulda, you woulda done it. At the end of the day, Excellence is a gradual result of always striving to do better"


It is widely thought that Chris Bennett will return to goalkeeping duties for this Sunday's clash with Market Rasen. James Pickering played the last cup game against AFC Rustons and saved a crucial penalty which led to Ian Sievwright sending the Tigers through to the next round of the cup.

"I'll have to have a good think about the goalkeeper situation, we are in a strong position in terms of keeping. Alot of teams at our level struggle for one brilliant keeper, let alone two like we have. Its a good problem I have"

Hykeham Tigers Draw an Old Foe

Hykeham Tigers have drawn at Home to Welton Sports AFC in the next round of the Ron Eaglen Challenge  Cup after their penalty shoot out win in the Preliminary Round against AFC Rustons

The Tigers are facing an old foe in Welton Sports after facing them twice in the last two pre-seasons with two tasty affairs, featuring plenty of goals, two sending's offs and plenty of controversy.

It couldn't have got much tougher for the Tigers who face currently one of the toughest defences in the leagues, having won 9 out of 9 games, and only conceding 5 goals.  

Tigers Beaten In County Cup

After an indifferent start the season, a lack of form and a lack of a little bit of luck, Hykeham Tigers went into their first foray in the County Cup against Grimsby Side AFC Bradley.

After the midweek game against Burton's FCW, there were a few changes to the side that won a last minute point. Matt Wilson was still sidelined with his fractured foot, and Andy Myers was also sidelined with a freak ankle injury. Paul Sturton started Centre back, after a hugely impressive stand in performance against Burtons, and Tom Dickinson also returned to the side after a period of absense. The line up chosen by Giovannetti was:

GK- Chris Bennett
LB- Tom Dickinson
CB- Paul Sturton
CB- Sam Newton
RB- Aaron Starbuck
LM- Ashley Murphy
CM- Christopher Quinn
CM- Ian Seivwright
RM- Callum Fatchett
CF- Daniel Daubney
ST- Kris Nelson

SUB- James Pickering
SUB- Craig Froggatt
SUB- Gavin Brown
SUB- Nick Billington
SUB- Tom Skelton

Hykeham had a bright start to the game, and looked the more likely out of the two sides to get the first goal. Some good work by Ian Seivwright and Callum Fatchett fashioned first real chance for Tigers with Kris Nelson coming close. Afc Bradley then started to show some of the form that won them their respective league last season. A neat move down their right hand side saw them slide the ball across the path of Chris Bennett and the Bradley striker managed to hit the bar from a yard out and really let the Hykeham outfit off.


However, they were so lucky soon after. Moments after Chris Bennett had hauled down the Bradley striker, and was lucky to get away with not giving away a penalty, Hykeham conceded. A route one kick from the goalkeeper was not dealt with by the centre backs, or by Keeper Bennett which left the smallest man on the pitch to challenge Bennett in the air, and the ball fell kindly to his feet leaving him an open goal to make it 1-0 to the Grimsby Side.

Hykeham had a few more good chances in the half, and came close on several occasions. From a Tom Dickinson corner, Chris Quinn forced a good save from the keeper from a glancing header that really looked goal bound. However, Hykeham went into half time, a goal down.

Giovannetti made no changes at half time, and chose to keep the side the same. The second half started similar to the first, Tigers were on top. Then game the pivotal moment of the game. Some poor defending by Bradley, saw them try to step up incorrectly and left Kris Nelson one on one with the keeper. Kris believed himself to be offside and slowed down, then tried to pass Ash Murphy in who was in an offside position. A goal here really would have changed the game for the Tigers but it was not to be.

Moments later, Tom Dickinson in an inocuous challenge broke his nose, and had to be subsistuted for Gavin Brown. Then to make things worse for the Tigers, a lapse in concentration saw the Bradley striker who'd previously hit the bar from a yard, see Chris Bennett off his line and he delicately lifted it over him into the left hand side of the goal. 2-0 to AFC Bradley.

This knocked the wind out of the Tigers sails, and this was clearly visible as heads went down instinctively throughout the side. Giovannetti changed the side and went to a 3-5-2 to go for broke. Craig Froggatt and Nick Billington came on for Aaron Starbuck and Callum Fatchett.

Hykeham came close again when Chris Quinn fired a free kick from 35 yards which moved all over the place, and struck the bar. This finally took the wind out of the sails of the Tigers. Paul Sturton who was the arguably the best Tigers player till that point, tried to run the ball out of the back, and gave the ball straight to the Bradley striker who ran half of the pitch and slotted the ball past Chris Bennett, 3-0 Bradley and game over.

Hykeham in credit to them, didn't give up the fight and continued to press, creating several chances. However, going for goals, Hykeham were left exposed at the back and another mix up at the back let Bradley in, and the substitute striker scored his second goal of the game, neatly tucking the ball away after another 40 yard run. 4-0 Bradley and this was the end of the game.

Hykeham hadn't really deserved a 4-0 loss, and this flattered Bradley slightly. Some positives to take out of the game, and plenty of time to recover and focus on the league.

Player Ratings & Synopsis

Chris Bennett- 7/10
Steady game, still adamant he didn't foul Bradley's striker but was a clear penalty

Tom Dickinson- 7/10
Was one of the better performers for the Tigers before he broke his nose and had to be withdrawn early in the second half

Paul Sturton- 9/10 Joint MOTM
Adapted superbly to a new position in the last two games, and didn't look out of place. Shame he made the mistake for the 3rd goal, as he was faultless up till then

Sam Newton- 8/10
Another solid performance from the young centre back. Looks like he could build a solid partnership with Paul Sturton

Aaron Starbuck- 7/10
Steady performance from the right back, dealt with most things thrown at him well.

Ashley Murphy- 7/10
Good going forward and provided some good service into the strikers. Could have provided more support for his full back at times.

Christopher Quinn- 7/10
Hard working and industrious. Had a superb free kick strike the bar from 35 yards.

Ian Seivwright- 9/10 Joint MOTM
Superb display from the new signing, industrious and good on the ball. Lot of passion and showed alot of fight and guile.

Callum Fatchett- 7/10
Quiet morning from the usually lively Fatchett. Worked as hard as ever, but didn't have the easiest time against a very strong left back.

Daniel Daubney- 7/10
Worked hard, and tried to create chances however was just not just day. Off day, but sure they'll be plenty of good one's to follow.

Kris Nelson- 7/10
Again like most, worked extremely hard and seemed isolated at times. Should have equalised when through on goal early in second half.

SUB- James Pickering-
 Not Used

SUB- Craig Froggatt- 7/10-
No time to make much difference

SUB- Gavin Brown- 7/10-
Steady and Competant

SUB- Nick Billington- 7/10-
Hard working, and played some nice passes

SUB- Tom Skelton-
Not Used

Dick Of The Day- Ash Murphy

Next Game- FVA Jerusalem Reserves- Wednesday Night (Away)

Nelson Signs on the Dotted Line

Hykeham Tigers have today secured the signing of promising teenager Kris Nelson. Nelson signs on a 2 year deal after a very impressive pre-season with the Tigers.

After a battle with Kris Nelson’s agent, and the struggle to secure personal terms, Kris Nelson has finally signed on the dotted line for the Hykeham Outfit. This means he will be eligible to play in this weekend’s opener against De Wint.

Nelson has impressed during pre-season scoring in virtually every game he has played, including a brace In the final pre-season game against AFC Red Lion including a fantastic 25 yard finish over two defenders and the keeper.

Hykeham manager Giovannetti, was ecstatic at the signing

“Kris has really impressed me during pre-season; he’s quick, strong and has a real eye for goal. This could be a big season for Kris, and if he continues the same level of performance s that he has been showing pre-season, then he will be a real asset for the club”

Nelson has scored 6 goals in 5 games during the pre-season and has been highly impressive. Nelson has signed from Ruston Eagles FC and played in this division last season. Nelson scored 19 goals last season in Division Three, and this impressive goal tally is something that manager Darren Giovannetti took into account when deciding whether to sign Nelson or not.

Nelson had the following to say on his move

“I’ve come to the club because I genuinely think with the lads we have in the squad we can win trophies. I’m very excited at the prospect of playing upfront alongside the likes of Daubs, Big Mike (Bohan) and Chris Quinn and hopefully I can score some important goals that could guide us to winning the league”

Wilson To Miss Season Opener

Hykeham Tigers Centre Midfielder Matt Wilson, yesterday was confirmed to definitely miss the opening game of the season versus De Wint FC

A spokesperson for Matt Wilson yesterday revealed that Tigers player Matt Wilson will miss the next 4 weeks of football with a Hairline Fracture in his left foot.

Wilson sustained the injury in Hykeham's solid 4-1 win against Arch Rivals Saxilby Athletic. Wilson was seen by doctors at Lincoln County Hospital on Monday, and originally they thought that the foot was broken and Wilson would have been lucky to play this side of Christmas. However, after seeing a specialist on Wednesday, Wilson was fortunate to find out he had only fractured the Navicular bone in his left foot and this should heal within 2-3 weeks, leaving Wilson a week or so to rehabilitate and then get back into playing.

This a huge blow for the Tiger's as Wilson and Dickinson had started to make what looked a solid partnership in the middle of the Midfield and manager Giovannetti was keen to keep the players together for this weekend's trip to AFC Red Lion

"Its a big blow for us. He (Wilson) is not just an asset on the pitch but off it as well, for all he has done for this team the lads have a huge amount of respect for him, and value his opinion."

Wilson however will not be too far away from the pitch Sunday, as he takes charge of the team while manager Giovannetti is on holiday.

One Win and One Loss in Week Of Friendlies

Hykeham Tigers this week had mixed fortunes after winning 3-0 against Metheringham Reserves last Tuesday, however loosing 2-0 to AFC Welton this Sunday, ending a mixed week for the Tigers.

Thursday Night saw Hykeham Tigers face off in a game against Division Four side Metheringham Reserves. The Tigers fielded some inexperienced trialists for this game including newcomers Toddy, Michael Cruickshank, Chris Bennett, Kris Nelson and Mike Bohan.

The Tigers battled well throughout the game, and after Kris Nelson's brilliant volley set them on their way, Man of the Match Callum Fatchett scored two well taken goals, with a disallowed goal from Paul Sturton sandwiched in between Fatchett's goals. The game was marred by an ugly Melee at the end which Metheringhams fan's and players alike should be disgraced about.

Sunday saw a much changed Tigers team take on Division Two side AFC Welton who were a much better side than the one the faced the previous game. Hykeham struggled in large parts to find the form that served them well in the last few friendlies. Callum Fatchett, Sam Newton and Michael Cruickshank impressed heavily throughout this friendly which saw AFC Welton eventually run out 2-0 winners.

However, When ask to comment AFC Welton striker Jason Barratt had this to say about Hykeham Tigers chances this season

"They've (Hykeham Tigers) got a real chance of success this season, they have a strong squad and if they are lucky with injuries and a bit of luck it could see them go all the way this year"

Hykeham's next game's are Sunday against Bridon Athletic and next Thursday night against AFC West End

Pre-Season Friendlies

Please all take note of the below pre-season friendlies, I have text you all. Can you let Matt know your availability for each one of the below games, before Training which we have scheduled for Tuesday Night at 7.30 pm at the Cowpaddle

28/07/11---- METHERINGHAM RESERVES (A)----
31/07/11---- WELTON AFC (A)----
02/08/11---- AFC WEST END (N)----
07/08/11---- BRIDON AFC (H) ----
14/08/11---- RUSTONS S&SC (A)-----
21/08/11---- AFC RED LION (A)-----

Pre-Season Heptathlon Next Sunday

Matt Wilson today announced the annual Heptathlon event will take place after the game against AFC Welton on the 31st of July.

No, not Denise Lewis Hepathlon but the Inagrual Hykeham Tigers Heptathlon will be taking place next Sunday. For those of you who don't know what it is, we did something very similar last year for Varsity City FC.

After, the game against AFC Welton next week. We shall stay out after the game and conduct 7 different challenges in pairs. The winning pair will receive a special prize at the end of the day. This will involve coming back to the pub after, so all those who are usually allergic please make an appearance.

Once the game is over you will be split into pairs, this will be decided at the draw of a hat. You will work in these pairs for the rest of the day. The following will be the Seven Challenges throughout the day:

Challenge 1: Penalty Shoot Out
Challenge 2: Crossbar Challenge

Challenge 3: Kick up Challenge
Challenge 4: Mystery Challenge
Challenge 5:Pool Tournament
Challenge 6:Darts Tournament

Challenge 7:Football General Knowledge Quiz

The points scoring systems for the day will be the same as last year and will be explained on the day. The day will finish around 6-7pm, so no excuse to not stay out. If you have work at 6 or later, just bring ur work clothes with you. THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR NOT COMING, IF YOU ARE SIGNING ON FOR US!!

This day was a huge success last season, and everyone who didn't know each other that well got to know each other and we generated our team spirit and togetherness from this day. So lets all have a good a laugh, and a few beers together.

See you there

Tigers Chasing Adelaide Star?

Newspaper reports today have linked Adelaide Player Josh Raby with a summer switch to Hykeham Tigers. Raby, who is currently a free agent, is considering offers for several clubs, one believed to be the Tigers.

Raby, 19, played for Premier League outfit Adelaide FC last season but in the summer but has severed his links with Adelaide after a sensational twist of events last week.

Chris Elliott was appointed manager of Adelaide FC after the end of last season, but however last week he sensationally quit the team after time constraints and work commitments proved to much for the manager. Raby, was set to sign a new deal at the club on the premise that Elliott would be managing the club in the following season.

Now that Elliott has left Adelaide this leaves Raby as a free agent and is not keen to continue playing with the club, and Tigers midfielder Matt Wilson is keen on getting his good friend Raby in to play for the Tigers.

"Josh is a fantastic player and would be a massive coup for the club. He's the sort of player we need in our team"

Raby, is seen to be keen on joining the Fen Lane Outfit and has been seen writing on twitter about his keenness to join the club. Raby describes himself as having the best "Sat Nav" in Lincoln, and has been likened to Paul Scholes in the past for his ability to pick a pass

No-one from the club was available for comment

Newton Committed To The Club

Hykeham Tigers potential Captain Sam Newton has reacted badly to newspaper reports linking him with a big money move away from Fen Lane, and will show his commitment to the club by signing a one year deal tomorrow night.

Newton, 22, won Varsity City's Player of the season last year, as voted for by both Manager and team-mates alike. However, in today's Sky Sports News Paper Talk for Iphone, reports from The Premier League were saying Sam Newton was involved in a high profile switch to Victory Fsc.

Newton, however moved quickly to quash the rumours, and denied any interest from Premier League clubs and declared his passion for the Tigers.

The 22 year old said he is raring to go for the season ahead, and cannot wait to get more games and training underneath his belt

"I have no idea where this rumour came from, I've got a few friends who play for teams in higher leagues, but my hearts in it here at Tigers"

"We've got a cracking bunch of lads together, and we've got a real shot of winning things this season. If Jonno and Daz, bring in the right players and get rid of the players who don't wanna fight for the cause then we can do big things this season."

"It is an honour to play for this club, and I can't wait to get going for the new season"

Dickinson The Real Deal?

Hykeham Tigers look to be close to the coup signing of towering left footer, Tom Dickinson. The 30 Year old would be Hykeham's third official summer signing if he suceeds in his current trial.

Dickinson pictured above in the middle, is very keen on signing from Hykeham Tigers after impressing in the Exhibition match against Dunraven FC a few weeks ago. Tom was said to be very happy at the way the game went and enjoyed playing with all the lads in the side.

"The guys welcomed me and Sambo fantastically well. We played some brilliant football, and I really enjoyed playing and I think i'll more than likely sign on for the season."

Dickinson also talked briefly about footballing matters saying that he is really looking forward to next season in Division 3 and getting to have a crack at the big Cup competitions.

“It’s going to be a great season for us, Im really looking forward to playing in the big tournaments this Year and hopefully we can do ourselves proud.”

Tigers To Challenge In Division Three

It is been announced that the Hykeham Tigers will play their inaugral season in the Sunday Football League in Division Three. It was widely speculated that they would remain in Division Five but officials in the Sunday League have noticed increased in playing ability and decided to move them up to Division Three where they will face the following teams

AFC Rustons

Burtons FCW

City Vaults FC

De Wint FC

FVA Jerusalem Reserves

Heighington FC

Newton United

Plough Sturton FC

Rustons Sports FC

The George Market Rasen

Dunraven Undone By Tigers

Hykeham Tigers 12 Dunraven FC 4

Hykeham Tigers played their first pre-season friendly yesterday against a team from Essex, Dunraven FC. The Tigers had a mixture of some of the squad from last year, and some trialists for this season in the lineup. Manager Darren Giovannetti Named His Side for the first game as the following

Chris Bennett

Kallum Smith

Tom Dickinson

Matt Wilson

Callum Fatchett

Tom Cowan

Daniel Daubney

Ash Murphy

Craig Froggatt

Paul Sturton

Chris Funnell

Subs

Tom Skelton

Mike Bohan

Sam Bo

Overall this was a fairly comfortable but none the less impressive performance from the Tigers who's constant retention of the football wore down the Dunraven Side who could not handle the quick movement, and thinking of a youthful Tigers side. 3 Goals from Chris Funnell helped the Tigers onto the victory, with a brace from Callum Fatchett and Daniel Daubney, and single goals from Craig Froggatt, Ash Murphy, Sambo, Kallum Smith and Mike Bohan wrapped up the game for the Tigers.

Giovannetti had this to say following the victory

"Fantastic from the first whistle to the last. Full backs were immense today, especially Kallum who gave their left midfielder and full back an absolute nightmare and was by a mile the best player on the park. Chris showed what a talisman he will be for us this season and also Tom Dickinson and Sambo impressed in their trial game and we'll be looking to get both signed on the dotted line asap"

Funnell Becomes Hykeham's Second Signing

Yesterday, saw the signing of Chris Funnell on a year long deal from recently folded Hunters Leap FC. Chris Funnell was very keen to sign for the club, and has immediately taken up the Head of the Fines Committee role within the football club.

Funnell, who is also signed for Lincoln United Reserves on Saturdays, was last years leading reserve team goalscorer in the Lincolnshire league, and enjoyed his rise and step up into the first team. His only appearances in the first team last season came from the bench, but the Ashby Avenue outfit have high hopes on the striker for the future.

Funnell looked sharp in his first training session, and had appeared to settle in fantastically, with his new team-mates. Jon Page had this to say about his new signing

"Chris is a fantastic young striker. Strong, quick, good on the ball and is a massive asset to our football club. He will work fantastically well with Wilson, Daubney, Sturton, Fatchett and Froggatt. I can see Chris flourishing in this team."

Varsity Boys Re-Sign For New Season

(James Pickering signing one-year extension with Club Secretary Andrew Farrer)

As widely expected, at the first training session of the season, several of last years Varsity City players signed again for the Hykeham Tigers FC 2011/2012 Season. The training sessions saw a few new faces, and with a few faces missing because of holiday and work saw new manager's Giovannetti and Page put the players through their paces with only 8 weeks to go till the start of the new season.

Giovannetti and Page Now have the following players re-signed on so far for the New season;

Matt Wilson

Daniel Daubney

James Pickering

Gavin Brown

Aaron Starbuck

Ashley Murphy

Nathan Daubney

Paul Sturton

It is widely expected over the next few days that Hykeham will resign on Sam Newton, last years player's player of the season, and Craig Froggatt, the 2nd Top Goal scorer from last season.

Hykeham Tigers Make First Summer Signing

Hykeham Tigers have made the first step towards the challenge for 5 trophies in the forthcoming season, by Capturing there first signing of the season. Callum Fatchett, has signed on a one year rolling contract from Division Six Side Shakespeare BBH.

Callum is a 22 year old, Striker/Midfielder, who comes into the club fresh off the back of finishing runner up top goalscorer in the basement league of Lincoln Sunday Football League. Manager Darren Giovannetti commented on the signing of Callum

"Callum is a fantastic young player with a massive amount of will, passion and desire to succeed. I know how much it has taken for Callum to leave BBH and I'm very glad he's taken the decision to come and better himself, and challenge himself at a higher level. This season is very make or break for him, and I really hope the step up pays off for him"

Fatchett has an impeccable record for BBH, scoring 127 goals, in 92 games for the Division Six Outfit. Callum has been with BBH since he was 17, and has been top scorer for the club every year since 2007. Also, Fatchett won Manager's player of the season in 2009. Fatchett has been in high demand this summer, with Conningsby and other higher division clubs chasing the services of the Charlton Athletic Fan.We caught up with Fatchett for a brief interview, after he signed his contract with the club

You have been at BBH Since you were 17 Callum, How hard was it for you to leave the club?

"To be fair it was a big decision but I've been at bbh for almost 6 years and i just dont feel I could go any further in that team, I'll always be grateful i got my chance there and grew as a player but its just feels the right time to move on and push with the team for big and great things"

What are your goals for the Future?

"Well for starters I'm hoping to be able to nail down a starting position in the team but the main goal joining this team is to help push up the footballing ladder into the top division and hopefully win a few cups on the way!"

How excited are you for the new season?

"Absolutely buzzing can not wait for season to begin with the players we have and some we are bringing in its going to be a very strong and talented squad, so everyone will have to work hard for their position and with that only good things can come of it!"

Stay Tuned To The tigers Website, As Hykeham Tigers make more signings!

Wilson "Transfers Are Going To Come"

Last Night, Club Captain Matt Wilson was out to calm the nerves of the Tigers faithful about the lack of movement so far since the end of the 2010/2011 season and promised the Tigers fans that there would be new signings for the club

"It's not about signing players for the sake of signing them. We've made that mistake before and it didn't get us anywhere." Said Wilson

"We don't need to rush into rash decisions, and get the wrong deal for the club out of it. The window opens tomorrow so you might start to see more activity from us as more and more players sign on for the season."

" One person who I can tell you for certain now who won't be signing on is Adelaide's Josh Raby (Pictured Above on Right) who a few weeks ago signed a pre-contract agreement with Adelaide FC. This involved acts of a inappropriate nature and several Jaegerbombs dealt out by Adelaide Manager Christopher Elliott (Picture Above on Left)"

The transfer window opens tomorrow, and all clubs for the Lincoln Sunday League will be eligible to sign players on for the forthcoming season. Stay Tuned to the website for the update news, views and reaction to the Movers and Shakers in the Sunday league

Hykeham Tigers To Sign Young Midfielder?

Cowan Set To Sign??

The rumour has been buzzing in the last few days with vicous speculation that Hykeham Tigers are set to land experienced young midfielder Tom Cowan, to their ever growing talent.

Tom Cowan is close friends with Tiger's Matt Wilson and Craig Froggatt, and is said to be extremely keen to join the expanding club. Cowan is a Defensive Midfielder with a box to box mentality. Strong in the tackle, and great with the ball at his feet, one thing you can guarantee from Cowan is a shift, and this is something managers Page and Giovannetti are keen to get this season, and this was seen lacking from last year.

Cowan, has played in this years F.A Cup from Cobham FC, and reached one of the final preliminary stages scoring on route to that stage. Cowan was voted players player of the season at Cobham, due to his hard work rate and his overall ability. Tom is currently a student at Loughborugh Uni and working on placement at Chelsea FC.

Tom would be seen as a massive coop for the club after coming from Premier League side Anglers FC. Matt Wilson commented on this rumour

"Tom is a great friend and a superb player, Division three would be a breeze from Tommy C and hopefully we can come to an agreement to get him in a Tiger's shirt next season"

Player In The Spotlight: Matt Wilson

Player In The Spotlight

Each week leading up to the Kick-off of the 2011 season, we will have a player in the spotlight and learn a little bit more about each of the team. First up, is Matt Wilson, Varsity City founder, manager and Runners Up Players Player Of The Season for 2010/2011 Season is first to be quizzed

Name: Matt Wilson
Age: 22
Position: Anywhere!
Team Supported: Man Utd, Lincoln City
Teams Currently Playing For: Hykeham Tigers FC, Louth Town FC

Who in your opinion is the greatest player in your lifetime?
Zinedine Zidane. The man is football, I don't think our generation really appreciates how good Zidane was, and only really remembers him for his infamous headbutt. Zidane's touch, technique, and influence upon games was outstanding and I don't think they'll be many players in the future who'll match that. Beckham, Messi, and Ronaldinho are also some of the most inspirational players throughout the Last 15 Years.

What is your greatest achievement in Football so far?
Well I think winning trophies is all well and good, but I've never had such a sense of achievement until last season when I founded Varsity City. The amount of time and effort that was spent, I don't think anyone could actually quantify! But to get 15-20 lads who hadn't even met each other before, and turn them into a group of good mates who played some cracking football together and at one point looked unbeatable was a real success.

Who was your player of the season for Varsity last year?
Well obviously Sammy Newton would player's and manager's player at the Awards evening last week, and I think it was really deserved and Sam got my vote. However, there was one or two other lads who deserved a real mention. Bowler came from nowhere and being sick on Skelly Road field in Pre-Season, and if you'd have said to me at the start of the season Bowler will end being one of your best players then I wouldn't have believed it, he's come on leaps and bounds.

How excited are you for the upcoming Season?
Massively, It's a fresh start and less pressure on me to do all the admin, and managing side of things. This season I can concentrate on being player, and club captain. The off the field captaincy is left down to whoever the gaffer's feel right, but it'll be nice to have a season where I can concetrate on my game, and hopefully guide us to a few cup finals and a league title.

Quickfire Round
Titch Or Beaumont? Titch! ;)
Daddy Or Chips? Chips!
Tevez Or Taibi? Taibi!! Tevez, is Judas!
Winning A Cup or Winning The League? Winning The League
Scoring the Winning Goal or The Three Points? Team Player, All about the Three Points!