MATCH REPORTS 2001/02

2002/03

Redmires 6 Noah's Ark 0      (League, 24th April 2005)

Redmires did not get out of the traps very fast and Noah's Ark made an early chance which was well saved by Karl Taylor. After 20 minutes, stand in striker Andy Birks dribbled through to score a great opener for the Reds and 10 minutes later the same player scored again as he ran on to a great through ball from Tom Lawrence. HT 2-0.

Noah's started the second half a more determined outfit and started to play some better football but Redmires were chasing and hassling for every ball. Ten minutes into the second half, Redmires added a third when Andy Birks completed his hat trick with another great piece of individual skill. The Reds were now well on top and before long the lively James O'Connell was on hand to score from close range. Noah's were not offering much up front but the one time they did get through Karl Taylor made a great one handed save to deny them. Redmires looked strong all over the pitch with midfielders Des Pike and Jamie Milnes in particular having great games. The Reds were soon on the attack again and a great dribble saw Lee Rodgers add a fifth. More skill by Andy Birks made it easy for the effervescent James O'Connell to score number six. A second yellow card reduced Noah's to ten men. Toward the finish, Redmires were awarded a penalty after a foul on James O'Connell and he sportingly let keeper Karl Taylor take it as Karl had said he has never missed from the spot. Unfortunately, the Noah's keeper made a great save. We'll forgive you Karl ! A good win against a team in a place above us in the League, giving us the runners up spot. TEAM PERFORMANCE 84/110.

Redmires 3 Royal Oak 0      (League, 21st April 2005)

Redmires were soon on the attack against a Royal Oak side who had done quite well in their recent matches against the divisions top teams and went close on several occasions. The Reds had several players out due to slight injuries and illness and struggled a little bit to find their cohesion. Royal Oak did not come to lay down and made the game competitive. Both Lee Rodgers and Luke Siggs perhaps should have scored when clear on goal but it was not to be. HT 0-0

After a good discussion at half time, the Reds settled down a bit and started to find their men better and Lee Rodgers fastened on to a loose ball to slot home. 10 minutes later stand in right back Craig Gambling gathered the ball midway into the Royal Oak half and finding himself in space hit a rasping shot which flew off a defender into the back of the net. The Reds continued to press and went close on a number of occasions. Their task was made easier when a Royal Oak defender raised his hands on a Redmires player and left the referee with no option but to send him off. Royal Oak stuck grimly to their task but an excellent free kick into the corner from Luke Siggs finished the game off. TEAM PERFORMANCE 86/110. A disappointing first half, but the team came good in the 2nd half.

Redmires 0 Swinton WMC 2      (Junior Cup - Final, 17th April 2005)

Redmires struggled to make an early impact on the game and found the Swinton defence very strong, particularly in the air. The game was fairly even throughout the first half with both sides not able to create any clear-cut chances. The Reds best chance came after half an hour when James O'Connell had a close range volley turned over by the keeper. Swinton's attack were proving dangerous with their combination of a big strong center forward and a small quick player, however,  most attacks were broken up well by the Reds defence. The game was very tight and so this remained up to half time. HT 0-0.

Swinton started the 2nd half sharper and went 1-0 up when Swinton's tall center forward hit a great volley past Karl Taylor from the edge of the box. Before the Reds had time to recover they fell further behind when Jamie Minchin was adjudged to have fouled the Swinton forward on the edge of the penalty area. Unfortunately for the reds, the referee and linesman deemed that the foul was committed in the penalty area and gave a spot-kick which was duly converted. Redmires were visibly rocked by this and found it hard to get back into the game. They could not seem to make any headway against the midfield of Swinton and consequently the strikers were starved of good service. Changes were made, but by this time Redmires were a beaten side and Swinton were worthy winners. A great effort to get to the final but disappointing not to have been at our best in this particular game. TEAM PERFORMANCE 77/110

Redmires 1 Woodhouse W.E. 1      (League, 12th April 2005)

A very competitive match between the top two teams in the division with WWE trying to protect a run of 14 league wins. The Reds were giving as good as they got in the opening stages and played the more constructive football whilst West End were always dangerous using their more direct route one football. Luckily, Redmires back four and goalkeeper Karl Taylor remained firm under this pressure and West End did not create any clear cut chances. Jamie Milnes standing in for the injured Des Pike in midfield was having a great game and it was from him that Redmires scored the first goal after 30 minutes. The Reds were awarded a free kick near the halfway line on the right and most of the players congregated to the left of the West End penalty area. However, Craig Gambling who took the kick had other ideas and placed a beautiful pass to Jamie Milnes on the the right of the area and Milnes flicked the ball over to the left where Luke Siggs ran in to head the ball over the keeper to put the Reds in the lead. Woodhouse were stung by this and tended to take their frustration out on the referee earning themselves a couple of bookings. HT 1-0.

The second half started with West End very much fired up, with the Reds showing great discipline. The pattern of play stayed much the same as the first half with Redmires playing the football and West End relying still on their tackling strength and hustle to try to make openings. Just when it looked like West End were not going to get through they finally did when a mix up between Craig Gambling and keeper Karl Taylor resulted in Gambling putting through his own goal. The play continued as before but neither team could make any further chances. The 2nd best performance of the season for Redmires in the face of a very determined opposition. TEAM PERFORMANCE 95/110.  Photograph donated by Keith Firminger (BSD League President)

Redmires 1 Niagara 0      (League, 10th April 2005)

Redmires started briskly against a Niagara side that were second to bottom in the league and what looked on paper an easy match turned into a real battle. Redmires had nearly all the play and although the shooting was an improvement on Thursdays match the Reds still found it difficult to score. The pitch had dried out quite spectacularly and made the bouncing ball hard to control. The Niagara defence and goalkeeper were proving very resilient and despite several chances, the Reds could not break through. HT 0-0.

The second half went much the same as the first with Niagara defending doggedly and when they did break Nick Milnes was in control at center back. Karl Taylor in the Redmires goal did not have a shot to save whilst at the other end Andy Birks nearly made the breakthrough with a 25 yard strike which thundered against the post. About 20 minutes from the end, Redmires brought on 2 strike players and piled the pressure on even more. With just two minutes to go, the move paid off when Pete Walton managed to get his head on a deep cross to steer the ball back into the box where Lee Rodgers was on hand to score from close range. A nervy performance from Redmires, but 3 points all the same. Niagara belied their lowly position and it makes you wonder how they have got themselves into this position. TEAM PERFORMANCE 86/110

Redmires 1 Telecom Sports 1      (League, 7th April 2005)

Redmires dropped two vital points in their quest for promotion when they paid for poor finishing. The Reds set off well and soon had the Telecoms defence under pressure creating several excellent chances that were all squandered. Redmires started getting anxious and frustrated when the ball would not go in and found the Telecoms keeper in good form. Telecoms were also mounting some good attacks and Karl Taylor made a few good saves. Just before half time, Redmires took the lead when a Luke Siggs corner was headed home by skipper Des Pike. HT 1-0.

The second half went much the same as the opening half with Redmires creating good chances that went begging. Telecoms, encouraged by the Reds inability to take advantage, began to creep back into the match and had several chances themselves which went close and a couple of brilliant saves by keeper Taylor maintained the Reds lead. However, Nick Milnes, who had kept a close watch on Telecoms Dean Grayson, slipped near the halfway line and this left the speedy Grayson to run on and score with a fine shot in the corner leaving Taylor stranded. This sparked Redmires to try harder and following a lovely through ball, Andy Birks rounded the keeper but because of the acute angle, decided to pass the ball to Lee Rodgers who could not quite finish. Credit to Telecoms who had a real go, but really Redmires should have won this game comfortably. TEAM PERFORMANCE 74/ 110

Oxspring Utd. 2 Redmires 6      (League, 3rd April 2005)

Redmires made the early running on a very bumpy pitch which was boggy in places. After 20 minutes the Reds took the lead when a beautiful cross from Ian Gambling was volleyed first time into the net by Pete Walton. Five minutes later Redmires went two up when Simon Bradbury rose to head home another pin point cross from Ian Gambling. Top scorer Lee Rodgers then added another just before half time to make it 3-0. HT 3-0

Shortly after the break, Andy Birks did one of his customary dribbles through the opposition defence before slotting home the fourth. Oxspring came back and following some poor defending, they scored to give themselves some hope. Lee Rodgers scored again almost instantly for Redmires to notch up his 21st goal of the season. With twenty minutes to go, Oxspring pulled another goal back through pacy winger Alan Crofts. Redmires continued to press and added a sixth through Simon Bradbury who scored from close range following a good move. TEAM PERFORMANCE 86/110 - not one of our best performances but good enough on a shocking pitch.

Redmires 7 Oughtibridge Village 0      (League, 31st March 2005)

Redmires started off fast in their evening kick off with an Oughtibridge team that had shown improvement of late. Redmires took the lead when a beautifully flighted corner from Ian Gambling saw Andy Birks place a perfect header into the corner after just 7 minutes. 15 minutes later after more pressure, it was Jamie Milnes who timed his run to perfection to head home another great corner from Ian Gambling. Redmires continued to apply the pressure and following further attacks, Lee Rodgers squeezed a goal into the far corner. Oughtibridge tried hard to keep in the game but were finding the Reds defence in fine form and it was no surprise when Redmires increased their lead to four when Luke Siggs scored a welcome goal. HT 4-0

The Reds were playing some excellent football and Oughtibridge were struggling to not concede further goals. After 10 minutes, with the game seemingly won, the Reds made some substitutions and Simon Bradbury, Luke Rodgers and Dan Peckett all came on. Redmires applied more pressure and James O'Connell added a fifth for the Reds. The standard of football was very good from Redmires and a Luke Siggs goalward (so he says) shot was turned into his own goal by the Oughtibridge center back. A fine reverse pass from Dan Peckett out to Luke Rodgers on the left caused the O's defender to bring him down and from the resultant free kick which Luke Siggs took, Craig Gambling soared like an eagle to head the ball home to round off an excellent squad performance from the Redmires team. TEAM PERFORMANCE 94/110

Redmires 2 Woodhouse W.E.  1       (Junior Cup - Semi Final, 20th March 2005)

Redmires faced a difficult task against their Division 1 Blades Superdraw league opponents who, to date, had won every match they had played this season, only conceding 7 goals in all their league matches. Woodhouse started the brightest and bossed the early exchanges. Redmires knew they would have to compete for the whole 90 minutes and following a good move down the right flank were rewarded when Lee Rodgers followed up a Simon Bradbury header that came back off the post to put Redmires one up after 20 minutes. This gave the Reds the confidence to keep on and Woodhouse found little joy out of the Redmires back four. The more creative football was being played by Redmires but Woodhouse were using the route one counter attack to good effect and Karl Taylor made a great save to keep the lead intact and when he was beaten, Dan Peckett made a fantastic headed clearance off the line. The normally solid Woodhouse defence looked decidedly shaky against the pace of Lee Rodgers and Simon Bradbury and with the midfield of James O'Connell, Andy Birks, Pete Walton and Jamie Milnes working very hard, Redmires finished the half with the advantage. HT 1-0.

Redmires came out for the 2nd half determined to hang on to the lead, and with the game becoming more stretched, the Reds better passing meant they created more than their opponents and really should have made the game safe. The second half became end to end stuff with both sides battling for every ball. Despite having quite a few corners, Woodhouse could not break down the Reds strong defence with Nick Milnes having a storming game. As often happens when a team only has a one goal lead it concedes near the finish and just 4 minutes from the end, Luke Siggs was adjudged to have brought down a Woodhouse player and they duly converted the penalty. With 2 minutes to go, and extra time beckoning, Jamie Minchin who had been outstanding at right back for the Reds, controlled the ball outside the penalty area and lashed in a volley which skimmed along the ground into the far corner leaving Woodhouse's tall keeper standing. A great win for the Reds to get through to the Junior Cup Final at Stocksbridge Park Steels Ground on 17th April. TEAM PERFORMANCE 93/110. Photograph donated by Keith Firminger (BSD League President).

Civil Service 0 Redmires 1 (League, 13th March 2005)

Redmires tried a new formation in the opening half of this match against a team languishing at the bottom of the division, but despite having most of the attacks they could not find the net and became frustrated as the match went on. The Reds had a lot of corners in the match but seemed to lack that vital edge in their finishing. All players were finding the bouncy ground conditions difficult to play, with the exception of Jamie Milnes who took over from Des Pike in midfield. HT 0-0.

The second half took the same pattern as the first with loads of Redmires pressure, but weak finishing. The Reds were relieved when at long last Andy Birks managed to get one in the Civil Service net from a header, and it was the same player who hit the crossbar with a drive a few minutes later. As it sometimes happens in these games, when one team has all the play, Service nearly equalised towards the end, but a fine intervention by Dan Peckett saved the day. The worst we have played this season, but we still won! Credit to Civil Service for a battling performance and some great defending. TEAM PERFORMANCE 71/110.

Redmires 6 Oxspring Utd. 0      (League, 6th March 2005)

Redmires started brightly and made the early running but it took 25 minutes before they scored. Luke Siggs's inswinging corner had the Oxspring keeper in disarray and his failed attempt at a punch allowed James O'Connell to bundle the ball over the line. A clever dribble by Lee Rodgers made it easy for Luke Siggs to get the ball home for the second. As an attacking force Oxspring were not causing any problems to the home defence and Jamie Minchin was finding loads of space to get down the right hand side and assist the front players. With 10 minutes to go to half time, Lee Rodgers performed one of his customary mazy dribbles which took him past 3 players and the goalkeeper to score a great goal. H.T. 3-0.

After the break, Redmires kept the pressure on and an Ian Gambling corner was turned into his own goal by the Oxspring defender. The Reds had several more chances to score but the Oxspring keeper made some good saves. New signing Andy Fitzmaurice came on as sub and marked his debut with a great shot from the edge of the box which flew in the top corner. In the last minute Simon Bradbury crashed home a well deserved goal from close range to make it six as Redmires coasted home. The match was well refereed by Mr S.Wilman who complimented both teams on their sportsmanship. A sticky pitch meant we didn't 'flow' as we can do but, nevertheless, a satisfactory performance. TEAM PERFORMANCE 81/110.

Royal Oak 0 Redmires  5       (League, 6th February 2005)

Redmires started off well with Luke Siggs replacing the unavailable Karl Taylor in goal. The Reds pressed hard from the kick off and were rewarded with a goal on fifteen minutes when Andy Birks ran through to slot the ball home after some good interpassing. Oak tried to get back into the game but were finding the Reds defence in good form with Jamie Milnes back in the team after injury problems and Jamie Minchin starting a match for the first time this season. The Reds increased their lead after another ten minutes when a rejuvenated Pete Walton outpaced the Oak defence and sent the keeper the wrong way. Oak seemed to fall apart after this and began arguing amongst themselves for a while. A well flighted free kick by Ian Gambling from the left hand side of the Oak penalty area saw James O'Connell force the ball over the line to put Redmires three up at half time. HT 3-0.

With skipper Des Pike (Redmires equivalent of Roy Keane) driving the team on to some excellent passing movements, it was no surprise that they went further ahead when ace goalscorer Lee Rodgers pounced to rasp the ball past the keeper to stretch Redmires lead. Within the last 30 minutes the three Redmires subs were brought on and it was good to see one of them, Simon Bradbury, score with a fine chip over the keeper to give Redmires a fairly comfortable win against the team immediately above them in the League. TEAM PERFORMANCE 84/110.

Redmires 0 Woodhouse W.E.  2       (League Cup Round 3, 30th January 2005)

Redmires started off ok against their division one rivals and two tight defences were giving little away. West End had the better of the early play and were winning most of the early tackles. They went ahead after 15 minutes when a rash challenge by Dan Peckett in the area led to a penalty decision which was duly converted. The reds were giving as good as they got and should have scored 15 minutes later when a good move involving Lee Rodgers, Andy Birks and Simon Bradbury ended with the ball hitting the the Woodhouse goalies legs when goalbound. Redmires were finding it hard to get through the tight West End defence. Equally West were not creating too much in front of goal and Redmires Keeper Carl Taylor dealt with most things comfortably. HT 0-1.

At half time, Redmires were forced into an early change as Andy Birks feeling the effects of a heavy cold had to come off and Pete Walton took his place in center midfield. Redmires continued to play attractive football in front of the West End back four but could not find that final ball to trouble their keeper. Play continued to be end to end and it was beginning to look like the score was going to remain the same, but fifteen minutes from the end, West End scored a fortunate goal. A shot from the edge of the area was badly miscued, but luckily for them, the ball fell to a West End player who was on his way out with the defence and could not believe his luck at having a clear shot on goal. Redmires made further changes as Richard Furness came on for Simon Bradbury and Jamie Milnes made a welcome return to action in place of Dan Peckett. The second goal for Woodhouse proved to be the killer for Redmires who kept trying until the end but just couldn't find a way through. TEAM PERFORMANCE 79/110.

Niagara 2 Redmires  3       (League, 23rd January 2005)

The fixture was one of the only games that survived the weather. Redmires started off brightly on a bumpy pitch against Niagara forcing two early corners and played well in the opening 15 minutes. Andy Birks was prominent in the attacks and scored when a Richard Furness shot rebounded to him and he made no mistake. Ian Gambling hit a post and Craig Gambling had a header cleared off the line but Redmires were making hard work of the game. HT 1-0.

10 Minutes after the break, Niagara equalised when a deflection deceived Karl Taylor. However the Reds took the lead again when Des Pike (YES, DES PIKE !!) soared like an eagle to head a great goal from a corner. Niagara came back and equalised to set up a grandstand finish. Redmires pressed hard for the winner and had a few opportunities to make the game safe. 5 minutes from time Ian Gambling floated a ball to the far post from a cleared free kick and Andy Birks dived in to head the ball home. TEAM PERFORMANCE 82/110. Not our best performance but a bumpy pitch did not help our style, but a win nevertheless with rivals Crookes Club losing against Oxspring Utd.

Redmires 3 St. Albans  1       (Junior Cup - Round 6, 16th January 2005)

Redmires lacked cohesion in the first half of this Junior Cup match with their Mexborough Sunday League rivals and struggled to get their passing game going with too many misplaced passes. St. Albans who looked fairly limited took advantage of some slack defending to take the lead after 30 minutes and although Andy Birks and Craig Gambling went close with headers, Redmires did not look very impressive. HT 0-1

A tactical change at halftime improved things early in the second half and the team began to find their men much better. A free kick hit at pace by Luke Siggs was superbly volleyed into the net by Lee Rodgers and the Reds confidence flooded back. With Lee Rodgers moving up front, his pace and running caused the St Albans defence several moments of panic and it was from one of these runs that he gained a penalty after a foul tackle when he was clear on goal. Luke Siggs keen to score his first goal on return from injury stepped up to put the ball in the net. Redmires were now in control of the game and with the back four playing very mean, the Reds had plenty of opportunity to get forward and create chances. After several close efforts, Andy Birks clinically finished off a good move to put the game beyond St Albans. The Reds continued to dominate the game and Lee Rodgers nearly scored with a back heel before the final whistle. TEAM PERFORMANCE 85/110. - A poor first half but much better 2nd half.

Crookes Club 3 Redmires  2       (League, 9th January 2005)

Late withdrawals meant Redmires had to make changes with Des Pike, Jamie Milnes, and Ian Gambling unable to play. The Reds were under the cosh for the first 25 minutes of the match with Crookes making the early chances and they made it pay when a shot from the edge of the penalty area went under keeper Karl Taylor's body. Crookes went two up after 25 minutes and Redmires were struggling to contain them. However, Redmires started to settle down against their aggressive opponents and sustained spells of pressure saw several chances go begging from close in. Just before half time and against the run of play, Crookes went further ahead when a free kick was only partially cleared, the ball fell to a Crookes player who scored with an excellent overhead kick. HT 0-3

Redmires came out for the 2^nd half determined to get back into the game and after a couple of close calls around their own area, put the Crookes defence under sustained pressure. After 70 minutes Simon Bradbury squeezed a goal from close in and the Reds gained much heart from this. Ten minutes later Pete Walton scored when he sent an inswinging corner to the near post and the Crookes goalkeeper failed to gather it giving Redmires hope of getting an equaliser. Redmires left themselves a bit open at the back and Karl Taylor pulled off one or two good saves. Redmires tried in vain to get the equaliser and proved rather wasteful with some of their set pieces which could have provided openings. It appeared that it was not going to be Redmires day in front of goal. We were made to rue the goal chances we missed in the first half.  TEAM PERFORMANCE  65/110

Redmires 4 Oak Tree Inn  0       (Junior Cup - Round 5, 19th December 2004)

Redmires started off brightly against their Junior Cup opponents from Mexborough and were soon causing their defence to panic with swift attacking movements with Lee Rodgers and Andy Birks both going close. After 20 minutes, the Reds went ahead when Andy Birks ran through the defence after some good interpassing to coolly slot the ball home. Lee Rodgers then had a shot cleared off the line after showing good pace. Oak Tree were not causing Redmires strong back four too many problems and keeper Karl Taylor was only called into action to take goal kicks. The Reds continued to press and a long flighted lob by Ian Gambling deceived the Oak Tree keeper to put Redmires two up. Oak Tree were proving very enthusiastic opponents, but were a bit short on the necessary class and some of their tackling was incurring the wrath of the referee Mr.Williams. HT 2- 0.

Shortly after half time, skipper Des Pike who had been very influential in midfield had to go off with an ankle injury and Pete Walton came on at right midfield with Nick Milnes taking over in center midfield. Pete Walton looked lively on the right and after a good attack, he was on hand to strike home a good shot from the edge of the penalty area. Redmires continued to dominate the match and when the Oak Tree left back brought down Nick Milnes just inside the box, Pete Walton stepped up to take a no nonsense penalty to give the keeper no chance. A match in which the Redmires defence were dominant and going forward we always looked likely to score. Another excellent performance by Andy Birks, but we should have found the target more often. TEAM PERFORMANCE 91/110.

Redmires 4 Woodhouse George  1       (League Cup Round 2, 5th December 2004)

Redmires started off quickly against the current Premier league leaders and although Woodhouse had the better of the early play the Reds took an early lead after 10 minutes when Andy Birks used some nifty footwork to make the opening for himself as he coolly slotted the ball home. Woodhouse were putting the pressure on but the Redmires defence looked strong and up front Lee Rodgers pace and Andy Birks clever ball play were making good openings. The Reds could have gone further ahead with Andy Birks, James O'Connell and Lee Rodgers all going close with the Woodhouse defence in disarray. However, Woodhouse equalised from a dubious well taken free kick given on the edge of the Redmires box. But far from lying down, this spurred Redmires on to the attack and the 'Woodys' defence was again looking very shaky. Just before half time, Ian Gambling's made it 2-1 to the reds when his deflected free kick carried to much power and found the back of the net. HT 2-1.

Redmires made a change at half time with Pete Walton coming on to replace the injured Richard Jones. Redmires again put more pressure on Woodhouse and some beautiful skill and a cool finish by Lee Rodgers after 5 minutes gave Redmires the edge they needed. Woodhouse kept coming forward and only superb defending by Craig Gambling and excellent goalkeeping by Karl Taylor prevented the 'Woodys' from scoring. Redmires always looked capable of scoring more goals and sub Simon Bradbury went close on two occasions. With about 20 minutes to go, an excellent dribble by Andy Birks caused the opposing goalkeeper to pull him down and it was surprising that the ref didn't send him off as he was the 'last' man. This is the situation that Pete Walton relishes and he had no difficulty converting the penalty. This win epitomises what Redmires have achieved so far this season and there were so many good performances it will surely go down in the annals of the club. As the Woodhouse manager sportingly said at the end "Well done, you played us off the park". TEAM PERFORMANCE 9/10.

Redmires 5 Civil Service  1       (League, 28th November 2004)

On a cold November morning Redmires set off fast against the team at the bottom of the table and scored in the first minute when Lee Rodgers outpaced his full back down the left hand side. Redmires continued to dominate matters and Civil Service

were relying on big punts from their goalkeeper to put pressure on the Reds defence which did not look entirely happy with the swirling ball. From one such attack, Civil Service equalized through a somewhat lucky deflection off Tom Lawrence which left keeper Karl Taylor stranded. Redmires continued to press but were lacking with their final ball and it took a surging run by Andy Birks to cause the goalkeeper to bring him down in the box. Chris Bethell strode up to put the ball in as the goalkeeper dived to his right. The Reds continued to press and Ian Gambling scored a great goal when he hit a full bloodied drive in off the up-right from the left hand side of the penalty area. HT 3-1.

This goal gave Redmires the buffer that they needed and in the second half they played better with the midfield players combining well with the strikers. Civil Service were, however,  battling well and Redmires could not take their eyes off the ball. Halfway through the second half, Redmires won a penalty when an Andy Birks dribble caused more chaos in the opposition box which led to a handball  - Chris Bethell stepped up to drive home the subsequent penalty. Substitutions were then made for the Reds and but for an outstanding performance by the Civil Service keeper, Redmires could have scored several more. However, the service keeper had no chance when Lee Rodgers coolly took a chance to put the match beyond doubt 10 minutes from the end. TEAM PERFORMANCE 6/10. Final ball needs to be better and again chances were wasted.

Oughtibridge Village 1 Redmires 4       (Junior Cup - Round 4, 21st November 2004)

After an excellent warm up session Redmires were really up for this 4th Round tie and started in positive mood. They pressed the Oughtibridge defence straight from the off and took the lead when Lee Rodgers used his pace to get onto a through ball to slide the ball home. Redmires continued to play good football and Nick Milnes took advantage of some sloppy defending to put Redmires further ahead. The Reds defence, well marshalled by Craig Gambling and Tom Lawrence, were able to deal with most that the O's could muster and big Tom found time to go up for a corner to put the Reds further ahead with a "well directed" header. With the whole team playing well the Reds finished the half very strongly. HT 0-3

After the break things got better as the Reds stepped up a gear and some of the inter-passing was the best seen so far this season. Many openings were made as the Reds were urged on from midfield by Des Pike and Andy Birks.  However, the ever dangerous Lee Rodgers was gifted a goal following excellent perserverance by Pete Walton who unselfishly passed to Rodgers who was in a better position to score. The Os managed to get one back after a quick attack caught the defence a bit stretched and Tom Lawrence put through his own net in trying to clear a difficult ball. A well done to all the players for a superb performance that was only let down by a killer instinct in front of goal. TEAM PERFORMANCE 8/10.

Redmires 2 Crookes Club  2       (League, 14th November 2004)

A much depleted Redmires (8 squad members short) had their sequence of  7 straight wins broken when they were held to a draw by a strong Crookes side .The first half  was fairly even with both teams having the odd chance. In midfield, Redmires found themselves stretched at times but when they attacked the Crookes defence looked vulnerable. HT 0-0. 

After the break the Reds looked the more likely to score. After 15 minutes, injured striker Luke Siggs managed to lob the keeper after good work down the left by Dan Peckett. Redmires continued to press and Andy Birks went close after dribbling through the Crookes defence. Redmires were playing better now but got caught with a sucker punch when a corner was hit across at pace and headed in by Crooks striker Dave Rowe. The Reds came back and holes appeared in the Crookes defence. Pete Walton made it 2-1 when he got on the wrong side of their full back and drew the keeper before slotting the ball home. Dan Peckett had to go off with an ankle injury and Mick Gleeson came on for his Redmires debut .The Redmires defence was playing well and looked as if they would contain the Crookes attack until a very poor decision by the referee allowed Crookes to equalise. The ref allowed play to carry on despite the ball being clearly out for a throw in to Redmires, (agreed by the Crookes supporters ). Redmires have been taught a valuable lesson - never take for granted a referees decision by stopping play. We got punished big time. It felt to most players as if we had lost, but under the injury circumstances this was a gutsy performance against a solid and well organised team. We look forward to playing them when we are at full strength. TEAM PERFORMANCE 6/10

Redmires 4 Stocksbridge Park Steels 'A'  1       (League Cup Round 1, 7th November 2004)

Redmires made a poor start to this League Cup Round 1 match falling behind direct from a corner after just 5 minutes However, they soon recovered to equalise when Lee Rodgers scored with a header following good work on the right by Richard Furness. Redmires continued to dominate matters and went close on a few occasions but their play a was a bit patchy. HT 1-1.

The appearance of Redmires injured players on the side seemed to inspire the team. Richard Furness had to go off at half time and he was replaced by the ultra fit Pete Walton fresh from a triumph in the British Masters (school ) triathlon. He was soon in the action and contributed to Craig Gambling's first goal for the club. Craig had replaced 'Pancho' Bradbury who had been dragged off to London for a weekends shopping. Gambling led the line well and was providing good link up play. A good through ball led to Lee Rodgers nipping in front of the keeper to put the Reds further ahead. The Reds were playing with added confidence now and although their final ball let them down they were far too good for their Premier opponents . Luke Rodgers came on to replace Ian Gambling (click here to see Ian Gambling comments) for the last 20 minutes and it was his brother Lee who completed his hat trick (click here to see video of goal) 10 minutes from the end with a well taken goal. A good performance with a solid defence who gave very little away. TEAM PERFORMANCE 6/10.

Post Match comments: Luke Rogers, Tom Lawrence, Lee Rodgers, Luke Siggs, Dan Peckitt, Karl Taylor, Richard Jones, Des Pike & Pete Walton

Other Footage - Craig Gambling, Del, Match Action 1 (just like watching Brazil), Match Action 2/Del offside rant, Luke Siggs warm-up. James O'Connell penalty claim.

Note: Milnes-Vision Media Corp. make no apologies for the crap quality porno style sideways filming.

The Brian Woolnough Report

Redmires 4 Stocksbridge Park Steels "A" 1

They call it the cup of cheers and Redmires are certainly doing that after claiming their second Premier League scalp of the season in this Sunday Sports League Cup first round win against Stocksbridge Park Steels.

Striker of the moment Lee Rodgers struck a second hatrick in as many weeks to fire Redmires to a seventh win in a row and Redmires into a next round tie at Woodhouse George.

Rodgers simply can't stop scoring at the moment but puts his success down to his team mates, "its hard not to score in this side at the moment" he stated, "its not about all me, its about the quality of the players around me. They create the chances and fortunately i'm getting on the end of them".

Three changes to the Reds injury ravaged side saw Karl Taylor, Dan Peckett and Craig Gambling replace Luke Siggs, Jon Dale and Simon Bradbury, missing with an acute embarrassment picked up during last weeks win at Oughtibridge.

Redmires made hard work of beating struggling Steels who took an early lead when a corner somehow sneaked inside Karl Taylor's near post. However an equaliser from Rodgers saw the game all square at the interval.

Pete Walton's introduction at half time transformed Redmires though and on the hour makeshift striker Craig Gambling put the Reds ahead with a vicious strike from Walton's cross that bobbled, bounced and sneaked under Steels' 'keepers body from around 12 yards.

Rodgers finished two excellent team moves to complete his hatrick and keep their cup dreams alive.

Regarding Walton, assistant boss Luke Siggs, said, "Pete was great this morning, he won the Fulwood over forties unisex triathalon last week and its a testament to his levels of recovery that he was able to give us 45 minutes like that today".

However he was critical of the team's performance. "We were sloppy today, too many players had off days and we should have put the game to bed far earlier. We have set high standards recently and although we have won we haven't hit those heights this morning".

Redmires, though, can take heart at being in the next round and keeping up their fine winning run although they will surely face tougher tests if they are to get to Bramall Lane in May .

Redmires (4-4-2) : Taylor, Jones, O'Connell, Peckett, Lawrence, Furness (Walton 45), I Gambling (Lk Rodgers 75), Birks, Pike, C Gambling, L Rodgers.

Star Man : Pete Walton, olden but golden.

Oughtibridge Village 1 Redmires 6       (League, 31st October 2004)

Redmires had no less than 8 players out for various reasons. Injured striker Luke Siggs deputised in goal for Karl Taylor. Redmires started brightly against the team currently lying second in the table and took an early lead when Richard Furness steered in a shot from close in. Oughtibridge also had a few attacks but these were dealt with very well by the Redmires defence. The Reds went further ahead when Simon Brabury seized on to a chance to slot the ball home. The Reds continued to impress with their team play with all players contributing. HT 0-2.

The Reds started the second half in the same vain with Lee Rodgers adding a third for Redmires with a fine goal. Redmires went 4-0 up after a good passing movement lead to Lee Rodgers scoring his 2nd. Oughtibridge then started a mini revival and managed a somewhat fortuitous goal when a lob from the left caught keeper Siggs off his line. Richard Furness then injured his groin and was replaced by Luke Rodgers. Following a run down the right, Luke Rodgers found his brother Lee who coolly completed his hat trick. Redmires looked very dangerous going forward and stroked the ball around well in midfield. Midway through the second half, Redmires hit a sixth when Ian Gambling latched onto a defence splitting pass from Andy Birks - instead of shooting from an acute angle, Gambling hit a lovely ball across the box which found Simon Bradbury to slide in from close range. This was an excellent performance by the squad particularly the defence and up front. Luke Rodgers was outstanding. TEAM PERFORMANCE 7/10

Sunnyside WMC 2 Redmires 3 aet      (Junior Cup - Round 3, 24th October 2004)

Redmires lost the toss and kicked off against a steep slope and with a blazing sun in their eyes.  Redmires created quite a few chances in the first half with Andy Birks and Lee Rodgers causing Sunnyside trouble with some excellent runs. Luke Rodgers was unlucky with a header which was well saved by the keeper. Sunnyside were having a few attacks of their own and Karl Taylor in the Reds goal made several good stops before being caught out by a lob which he possibly lost in the sun. Sunnyside scored again from a penalty shortly afterwards and Redmires were struggling with the slope and sun.  Redmires suffered a big blow when Craig Gambling had to go off with a dead leg and Jamie Milnes switched into the centre back position. and John Dale came on .Although the Reds were two down they were still causing the Sunnyside defence plenty of problems but could not get that vital breakthrough. HT 0-2. 

Redmires made all the early running in the second half and it was only a matter of time before they pulled one back when a speculative lob from Ian Gambling caught the Sunnyside keeper off his line. The manager then brought Richard Furness on to replace Luke Rodgers who had done well and it was Richard who was fouled in the box to allow Simon Bradbury to blast home the penalty "Andy Johnson" style. The Reds did all the attacking for the remainder of the half except for the occasional counter attack and these were dealt with by a resolute defence and an outstanding keeper. FT 2-2 

In the first period of extra time against the slope, Redmires were under the cosh and suffered a further injury blow when the other center back Jamie Milnes had to come off with a badly bruised ankle (replaced by Luke Siggs ). Thanks to some brilliant saves by Karl Taylor Redmires kept Sunnyside at bay kicking up the slope and turned round with the score still 2-2. The Reds saw this as a signal to attack Sunnyside and the play became stretched. Following good work by Simon Bradbury, Richard Furness provided the match winner to give the Reds a good win under difficult circumstances. Credit to Sunnyside who never gave up and for showing good sportsmanship at the end. TEAM PERFORMANCE (EFFORT 10/10 , ACTUAL PLAY 5/10)

St Cecelias 1 Redmires 5       (League, 17th October 2004)

With four players away, Redmires had to make a few changes with young Luke Rodgers coming in up front and Jamie Milnes returning to centre back after paternity leave. The match kicked off late as some St. Cecelias players had arrived late. Redmires started brightly and laid early siege to the Saints goal with Lee Rodgers going close on a couple of occasions. After 15 mins James O'Connell put Redmires one up and ten minutes later they went further ahead through Andy Birks who squeezed one in from inside the box. Redmires were playing the more constructive football with some very good passing movement .Midfield and strikers were moving around finding good space in which to launch good attacks and had Saints at full stretch. However,  Reds were unable to capitalize on all this pressure. Saints were in the main using route one which made things comfortable for Jamie Milnes and co at the back. After an excellent string of passes,  Pete Walton slotted the ball home to give Reds a good lead at half time. HT 0-3

After the break, Andy Birks scored a very good goal when he ghosted through a few tackles, dummied the keeper following some good team interplay.  Redmires had a few more good chances but could not add to their total until Lee Rodgers scored a great individual goal to round it off. Saints managed to get a consolation goal 10 minutes from time when Dan Peckett handled the ball and gave away a penalty. TEAM PERFORMANCE 6/10. (We need to take our chances better).

Redmires 5 Laycocks Sports 2       (Junior Cup - Round 2, 10th October 2004)

Laycocks surprised Redmires in their first attack when slack marking allowed an unopposed header to put Laycocks one up. With the official referee delayed in Nottingham, manager Del had to take the whistle for the 2^nd match in succession, but this did not stop Redmires equalising after 10 minutes. James O’Connell's cross from the right and pressure from Simon Bradbury, caused the Laycocks defender to deflect the ball past his own keeper. Redmires were now putting the Laycocks defence under more pressure and Luke Siggs went close ,hitting the crossbar with a volley. Redmires took the lead shortly afterwards when Simon Bradbury latched on to a through ball to smash the ball past a helpless Adam Green. The official referee turned up after 18 minutes (thank God) and Laycocks inspired by this equalised. Nick Milnes was doing a great job marking Laycocks danger man Sam Sequerra who had scored four in their previous match. HT 2-2

The 2^nd half  started with Redmires on the attack. Laycocks were proving very resilient in defence and dangerous on the breakaways. Redmires went ahead after 15 minutes when a very long clearance by goalkeeper Karl Taylor went over the square Laycock defenders and speedy Gonzalez Simon Bradbury ran on to give the keeper no chance. Redmires scored another classic goal when Des Pike got into the Laycocks area for the first time in the match and fooled everyone who thought he was going to shoot but instead slid the ball to the cool Lee Rodgers who slotted the ball home in great style. Laycocks seemed to lose heart at this point and became ragged. The Redmires manager decided that this was the time to replace the injured Siggs with Pete (Pierre) Walton, a former player for Laycocks who thoroughly enjoyed finishing off another Redmires move. Ian Gambling and big Tom Lawrence came on towards the end of the match which somehow had already slipped away from Laycocks. TEAM PERFORMANCE  7/10. 

Noah's Ark 0 v Redmires 0      (League, 26th September 2004) - Match abandoned after 40 minutes.

There was no registered referee for this match as the official appointed cried off in midweek. Despite the efforts of both sides
another ref could not be found and although both teams would rather not have played the game, the league rules left no room for other options. The clubs mutually agreed a lay referee from Redmires would take charge of the game and the match kicked off. It was a hard competitive affair with both teams creating chances. However, three of the Noah’s Ark players could not hold their discipline and the referee booked the right back on the 35th minute. Five minutes later the same player was involved in another fracas and this resulted in other players becoming embroiled. The referee then abandoned the match. The match is now in the hands of the Sheffield and Hallamshire F.A. 

There are questions to ask of the authorities. These type of things are often likely to happen when unofficial referees are used.

Redmires 4 Rising Sun 2       (Junior Cup - Round 1, 19th September 2004)

Redmires started sharply against their Imperial League rivals in the Junior Cup first round and early pressure paid off when Andy Birks volleyed in a fine goal after a good cross from James O’Connell. After 10 minutes Luke Siggs put Redmires further ahead with an excellent strike from outside the box.  Redmires continued to press should have scored more goals. However, Rising Sun managed to scrape a goal back following a mix up in the Redmires defence.  Redmires still continued to press and just before half time were awarded a penalty following a handball on the line. Unfortunately Luke Siggs hit his shot straight at the keeper and Redmires went in at half time 2-1 up. H.T. 2-1.

After the break Redmires were soon on the attack but never looked that certain in defence. Keeper Taylor however always looked in command of his area. Nick Milnes was now making some excellent runs down the left and from one of these he was brought down in the box. Siggs stepped up again and slotted the shot into the corner. Lee Rodgers came on for his brother Luke and Richard Jones came on for Tom  Lawrence. In one of Rising Sun’s few meaningful attacks they were awarded a penalty but thankfully Karl Taylor kept up his 100% record in penalties this season with a great save. Rising Sun did manage to pull one back, but Lee Rodgers scored his first goal for the club to make the game safe for Redmires. A workmanlike, rather than spectacular performance against a moderate team. TEAM PERFORMANCE  6/10.

Telecom Sports 1 Redmires 3       (League, 12th September 2004)

Redmires set off smartly at the windy Telecoms ground and kicking with wind put the Telecoms defence under early pressure . The pressure paid off when Jamie Milnes lashed the ball in from close range  after a melee in the Telecoms area following a Luke Siggs corner. Redmires continued to press but didn’t look that comfortable at the back. Keeper Karl Taylor again looked very safe and made one or two good stops. After thirty minutes Redmires were awarded a direct free kick on the edge of the Telecoms box and having consulted the referee Luke Siggs took an early shot past the beleaguered Telecoms keeper - excellent quick thinking by the striker. Soon after Telecoms pulled one back when Craig Gambling misjudged a bounce and their striker ran through to shoot past Taylor. Redmires were still dominating matters and with 5 minutes to go before half time O’Connell took a free kick on the right which was headed home with aplomb by Simon Bradbury. H.T. 1-3.

The second half was disappointing from Redmires as they never added to their superiority and credit must be given to Telecoms for staging a fight back without really threatening the Redmires goal. TEAM PERFORMANCE  6/10.

Redmires travelled to Woodhouse for their first league game of the new season and on a poor pitch struggled to find any cohesion in their play. The referee looked to be having his first match and made several poor decisions. Consequently the game was a bad tempered scrappy affair. Redmires best moves came down the right where Richard Furness made several threatening runs. Meanwhile Woodhouse were causing plenty of problems for the Redmires back four and new keeper Karl Taylor was the busier of the two keepers. Woodhouse scored their goal direct from a corner to give them a Half time lead. H.T. 1-0.

In the 2nd half the refereeing got gradually worse and Woodhouse were given two penalties one of which saw a Woodhouse player tripped over by one of his teammates. Tayler in the Redmires goal made a great save from the first penalty, then with the 2nd one he dived to parry the first attempt and then made a magnificent save from the follow up shot. Redmires players were also disappointed when the referee appeared to give a penalty for a blatant foul on a Redmires player but after strong protest by the Woodhouse players gave a free kick to Woodhouse. Redmires finished the game feeling somewhat robbed and angry with the poor standard of refereeing. It was agreed that Woodhouse were going to be very hard to beat on their own ground !. TEAM PERFORMANCE  5/10.

Handsworth OB 0 Redmires 2       (Friendly, 26th August 2004)

Redmires played their last pre-season friendly against  premier league side Handsworth OB.

At half time, Redmires defender Jamie Milnes took over in goal and Luke Siggs went back to his preferred position up front. The second half was a different affair with Redmires bossing the midfield. New signing Andy Birks looked particularly impressive. Handsworth faded rapidly and looked tired. Redmires started to create a host of chances. Half way through the second half Redmires made it 2-0 when Simon Bradbury scored a screamer into the roof of the net from a tight angle. As the second half drew to a close, Redmires continued to dominate proceedings and could have added further goals.

Redmires 2 Stannington Village 8       (Friendly, 19th August 2004)

Redmires entertained current premier league champions and cup winners Stannington Village.

Redmires were emphatically defeated 8-2 in a rather one sided game. In the first half ,a lethargic Redmires seemed unable to keep possession of the ball and defended very deep. Redmires rarely threatened the Stannington defence and were one down after 15 minutes when Stannginton were awarded a dubious penalty. The rest of the half continued in the same vigor with the opposition dominating and Redmires looking jaded. Redmires looked to change things with rolling substitutions. Stannington added a further two goals before the interval. H.T. 0-3

The second half was again similar to the first with Stannington swarming all over the Redmires defence.  Redmires continued to concede goals at an alarming rate. With the score at 7-0, Redmires pulled one back when Jamie Milnes headed in a Luke Siggs corner for the second game in a row. Stannington then made it 8-1 from the penalty spot. Just before the final whistle Richard Furness 'dinked' the ball over the opposition keeper to finish the score 8-2.

Redmires 3 Sacred Heart 2       (Friendly, 12th August 2004)

Redmires started their first friendly game against Meadowhall 1st division opposition Sacred Heart.

With regular keeper Paul Oxley missing. Injured new signing Simon Bradbury deputised between the sticks. Redmires quickly took the lead on two minutes when Jamie Milnes headed past a static defence from a corner. Sacred heart passes the ball around neatly and looked a threat going forward with their pacey strikers. Redmires made it 2-0 on twenty minutes when Luke Siggs's deflected free-kick looped over the goalkeeper. Just before the break Sacred pulled one back H.T. 2-1

In the second half Redmires were pushed deep into their own half and were forced into some desperate defending. Redmires, however, always looked dangerous on the break and made it 3-1 when new signing "Andy Birks" weaved around several players to finish neatly. Sacred poured forward and made it 3-2 just before the final whistle.

Permission has been given to publish official league photographs on this website by Keith Firminger (BSD League President).