Match Reports 2005/06 - second team

League

Centralians III 0 Trinity II 3

John Hobbs, Dean Holloway and Greg Turner scored the goals as Trinity II finished their season with a comfortable win over bottom of the table Centralians III.  The 3-0 win capped off a fine debut season in the Yorkshire Old Boys' League.  To achieve promotion to Division Two at their first attempt is an excellent achievement.

Trinity opened the scoring in the first half.  A long diagonal ball by Kissane was brought down by Hobbs on the right side of the area.  Hobbs cut inside and smashed low past the keeper to make it 1-0.

The lead was doubled early in the second half.  Turner's shot was stopped near the line by the Centralians' centre back.  However his slow attempt to clear the ball allowed Mullowney time to throw in a challenge.  The ball then fell invitingly for Holloway who volleyed home from ten yards to make it 2-0.  Shortly afterwards Turner scored, racing through from the halfway line before running through the keeper and slotting the ball into the net to make it 3-0.   Further chances failed to be converted notably an excellent volley from Lumsden that just flew over the bar.  3-0 was the final score.

Team: Field, Buckle, O'Hanrahan, Jordan, Hobbs, Higgins, Martin, Holloway, Mullowney, Kissane, Turner

Subs: Lumsden (for Mullowney), Rogers (for Martin), Rich (for Kissane)

League

Batelians II 2 Trinity II 2

Rayon Maynard and Neil Higgins both scored but Trinity's title hopes were dealt a huge blow, as Batelians equalised twice to make the score 2-2.  A decent performance, particularly in the second half, failed to mask a disappointing result for Trinity. The draw now makes it very unlikely that they will now have a chance of the title and will have to settle for promotion this season.

Batelians dominated much of what was a scrappy first half, yet found themselves a goal down after Trinity manager scored what was either the biggest fluke of the season (majority verdict) or a deliberate mis-hit (manager’s view!). A quick throw and then excellent cross from Angus Martin gave Higgins his chance just a few yards out from goal to make it 1-0 to Trinity.

Not long after Batelians scored a deserved equaliser after a well-worked move carved open the Trinity defence to make it 1-1.

Trinity picked themselves up and despite playing into the wind in the second half put in a far stronger display, with an excellent performance from Rayon Maynard. Trinity took the lead mid way through the second half with Maynard eventually hitting home after another Martin cross, making the score 2-1 to Trinity.

Disappointingly though Batelians hit back immediately from the re-start, running through non-existent midfield challenges and firing home from the edge of the area before the defence had put a tackle in to make it 2-2.

Trinity had plenty of chances to win the game but failed to take any of them, the draw bringing to an end any realistic chances of the title.

Team: Field, Buckle, O'Hanrahan, Williams, Curran, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway, Maynard, Martin, Hobbs

Subs: Kissane (for Curran)

League

Wortley II 1 Trinity II 0

With an unbeaten league run stretching from the 1st game of the season, the Green Machine arrived at chief title rivals Wortley knowing that avoiding defeat would go a long way towards a league title in their first season. Trinity made a couple of changes with Buckle coming in for the injured Beattie at sweeper and Maynard returning to the side to replace the absent Martin at left wing back. John Thompson continued in goal as team mascot Lee Field was again injured.

Unlike most games this season, the importance of the match had drawn a decent crowd with most of one touchline strewn with home followers. Unfortunately not one of them was the groundsman which meant no changing room key and, for the second time this season, the general public were exposed to some horrific sights.

Trinity had heard much about the Wortley 'Hill' and Lambert was pleased to win the toss and play up the slope. Wortley certainly flew out of the box and it took the three guys at the back a few minutes to get used to the surface. The first clear chance came when the normally dependable Connelly over commited against their sharp number 9 who had a 40 yard clear run at goal, thankfully O'Hanrahan saw the danger and got a last ditch tackle in which almost certainly save a goal. Thompson was called to make 2 notable saves as the opposition continued to make the best of the early running. The quality of these saves did not go un noticed as he picked up 90% of the Man of the Match votes after the game.

However as the half wore on Trinity discovered that they could get the ball down and play, Hobbs and Turner were up against some young, fit defenders (maybe not what we are used to) and did well to force a number of corners which were not capitalised on. As the half drew on Trinity put together the best move of the game, Higgins won the ball in front of the back four, he released Lambert who in turn sprayed the ball to the overlapping Williams. His superb cross field through ball was met by Maynard on the edge of the box, however he could not keep his shot down as the keeper advanced out. This proved to be Williams last contribution, forced off with a hamstring, whilst having a very good game - Lumsden replaced him.

0-0 at half time Trinity thought the hard work was done, a point would be fine and the slope was in their favour, this was to be a mistake. Being used to their home patch it was clear early on that Wortley knew exactly how to defend up hill, they played very deep. Instead of the usual quality football the greens have played of late they resorted to some form of early 90's Wimbledon approach, lets just say that neither Holloway, Turner or Hobbs are quite John Fashanu in the air! Despite the lack of football the Trinity rearguard kept Wortley at arms length with Thomson being called on to deal with a few crosses and tame long range shots. All was going to plan and the three boys at the back were playing like rocks.

However, with just 8 minutes to go Wortley were awarded a free kick with Lumsden judged to have felled a Wortley player on the edge of the box. The resulting free kick was beaten out only for it to fall to the feat of a Wortley midfielder, his weak shot bounced in to the box, took a few deflections and fell at the feet of Chadwick who could not miss from 6 yards out. The Trinity players felt he was a good couple of yards off side, however their appeals fell on deaf ears as the Wortley team had some kind of orgy near the corner flag.

Trinity only really mustered one decent chance after that when Holloway had half a chance to finish when one on one with the keeper, something he has done so many times this season. When the final whistle went the boys were understandably gutted, not really at getting beat, more at their poor performance. Little blame can be pointed at the defense, we would probably have taken letting just one goal in against Wortley - surely we would create a load of chances ourselves. Unfortunately we did not have the confidence, were not brave enough or were too conscious that 0-0 was good enough to start bringing the ball down.

Wortley still have work to do to overhaul Trinity including games against Heckmondwike and Horbury, if they draw one it could go down to goal difference, if they lose the title could still be Trinity's. Either way the boys must make sure that wins at Batley and Centralians ensure that pressure is maintained on Wortley.

Team: Thompson, Buckle, O'Hanrahan, Connelly, Williams, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway, Maynard, Turner, Hobbs

Subs: Lumsden (for Williams), Curran (for Buckle) 

League

Roundhegians III 2 Trinity II 3

Dean Holloway grabbed a late winner in an exciting last ten minutes as Trinity recorded their twelfth consecutive league victory, with a 3-2 victory over bottom of the table Roundhegians III.  Holloway also scored in the first half along with captain Richard Lambert as Trinity continued with their excellent winning run.  

Last time these 2 sides met Roundhegians stunned Trinity winning 3 - 2 in the Cup, this time Trinity were out for revenge.  Starting well they had the better of the early exchanges with several near misses.  However after 15 minutes Hobbs crossed for Holloway to slot pasty the keeper - Trinity 1-0.  Trinity continued to push forward and won a corner which was cleared to the edge of the box to Beattie, who attempted an overhead kick - unfortunately he missed the bass completely but managed to land on his ankle spraining it in the process.  As he limped off his girl like screams could be heard across Roundhay Park.  Trinity had to reorganise with Neil Higgins dropping to centre back and Lumsden coming onto play in centre Midfield.  Half time 1-0.

In the second half the Trinity performance changed dramatically they seemed second to every ball, maybe with one eye on next Saturday's big game against Wortley.  However with 20 minutes gone inspirational captain Lambert headed home a Williams cross to make it 2-0 - Trinity appeared to be coasting.  However Roundhegians are certainly a never say die team and continued to push forward.  With less than 5 minutes to go they scored what seemed a consolation but within a minute they pushed forward again and scored for a second time making the score 2-2 with a minute to go.  

All of the hard work of the season seemed to be going nowhere as the League would no longer be in Trinity's hands.  However they pushed forward hoping for a winner.  With seconds to go following a goal mouth scramble Holloway volleyed in making it 3-2 and secured the 3 points and promotion for a jubilant Trinity.  Trinity will need to play much better next week to stand a chance against Wortley.  

Team: Thompson, Connolly, Beattie, O’Hanrahan, Williams, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway, Martin, Turner, Hobbs

Subs: Lumsden (for Beattie), Jones (for Williams), Buckle (for Higgins)

League

Trinity II 2 Horbury Town 0

Richard Lambert and Adam Williams got the goals to see off Horbury for the 2nd time in a fortnight, and continuing their 100% record in 2006 scoring 28 and conceding only 2.

Trinity got off to a strong start with chances being wasted up front, with Holloway the guilty party missing probably the easiest chance of the season, an empty goal saw him drag his shot wide from 6 yards. Not long after, Trinity
broke the deadlock as Lambert put a loose ball from a scrap into the back of the net. After that, there wasn't much action from both teams and it ended at half time at 1-0.

The second half started a bit slow again with chances not happening as when it seemed to be an obvious corner or free kick, the referee decided to give the opposite.  But referee's decision in final. Horbury had one half chance in the second half as their striker broke through the defence making Field work for the first time resulting in Field coming off injured on his first game back from a shin injury.  Curran volunteered to stand in the sticks for the last 10 minutes, but still Horbury didn't manage to cause any trouble. 

In the last few seconds of the game, substitute Williams had the ball out wide
and probably the worst cross he has ever made resulted in it fooling the keeper and ending up in the back of the net. Game over, 2-0 and Trinity remain 10 points clear at the top.

Team: Field, Connolly, Beattie, O’Hanrahan, Rogers, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway, Curran, Turner, Hobbs

Subs: Williams (for Holloway), Martin (for Field)

League

Horbury Town 0 Trinity II 6

Richard Lambert scored two second half goals as Trinity II thrashed Horbury Town 6-0.  John Hobbs, Dean Holloway, Greg Turner and Angus Martin scored the other goals as Trinity extended their lead at the top of the Division Three table.

John Hobbs scored an early goal following a goalmouth scramble to put Trinity 1-0 up.  However they failed to add to that early goal in the first half despite breaching the Horbury offside trap on a few occasions.  Colin Buckle had a great chance following a crossfield ball, but he ran it too close to the goalkeeper and the chance went begging.  Horbury nearly equalised just before half-time.  A shot cannoned off the bar , and then off Trinity keeper John Thompson before running to safety.  Half-time 1-0 to Trinity.

Early in the second half Trinity doubled their lead.  A Lambert free-kick from twenty yards found the top corner of the net to make it 2-0.  Then came the goal of the game.  O'Hanrahan tackled a Horbury player in the Trinity penalty area and then passed it to Curran.  He jinked inside and then released Turner on the left wing.  Turner's cross was met on the volley by Holloway and beat the keeper, to make it 3-0.  Turner scored the fourth goal, racing through before clipping the ball over the keeper to make it 4-0.  Martin got the the next goal, firing low past the keeper from just inside the penalty area to make it 5-0.  Then Richard Lambert scored his second of the game.  His close range header following a corner made it 6-0 and wrapped up an excellent victory for Trinity.

Team: Thompson, Connolly, Beattie, O’Hanrahan, Williams, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway, Curran, Buckle, Hobbs

Subs: Turner (for Buckle), Martin (for Curran), Jones (for Higgins)

League

Trinity II 2 Heckmondwike II 0

This game didn’t start with the best pre match preparation as Heckmondwike turned up without their kit. Luckily a league official was at the game and managed to locate and supply a kit for the opposition.

After a 45 minute delay the game finally went ahead. Trinity for the last few games have been below par and started this game the same way but gradually improved as the game went on. The first 20 minutes saw Trinity having the better of the chances with Richard Lambert being guilty of not breaking the deadlock. It was finally broken when John Hobbs showed his pace on to a through ball. He rounded the keeper and a cool finish from an acute angle saw Trinity 1-0 up. Heckmondwike continued to threaten mainly down the Trinity left-hand side.  Their pace and skill in the Heckmondwike front line kept the Trinity defence well occupied for the afternoon.

The second half remained tight and Trinity had their keeper to thank with a fantastic save to deny Heckmondwike an equaliser. This seemed to move Trinity up a gear and 5 minutes later it was 2-0. A textbook corner from Curran was met by player/manager Higgins to scramble home in his first start for over a month. Trinity controlled the game from there on in with Turner and Holloway missing good chances.

Credit to Heckmondwike as they battled throughout and if Trinity can take the form they ended the game in to the start of next week’s tough game against Horbury they should come away with the 3 points.

Team: Thompson, Connolly, Beattie, O’Hanrahan, Williams, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway, Curran, Buckle, Hobbs

Subs: Turner (for Buckle), Lumsden (for Williams), Martin (for Lambert)

League

Trinity II 2 Modernians IV 1

John Hobbs and Colin Buckle scored the goals as Trinity II beat Modernians IV 2-1 to stay top of Division Three.   

Team: Thompson, Connolly, Beattie, O’Hanrahan, Williams, Lumsden, Lambert, Holloway, Curran, Buckle, Hobbs

Subs: Higgins (for Lumsden)

League

Trinity II 2 Batelians II 1

Midfielder Dean Holloway scored for the fourth consecutive game as Trinity defeated Batelians II 2-1 to cement their place at the top of Division Three.  Greg Turner scored the other goal in the 2-1 victory.  Full match report to follow. 

Team: Thompson, Connolly, Beattie, O’Hanrahan, Williams, Lumsden, Lambert, Holloway, Curran, Buckle, Turner

Subs: Hobbs (for Buckle), Martin (for Williams)

League

Trinity II 6 Moortown OB 0

Man of the match Dean Holloway bagged 4 goals, Colin Buckle and Gareth Curran also scored to easily beat a Moortown team who had only lost once in 7 games. 

Missing manager Higgins and Hobbs meant stand in manager Lambert had to take control, and he gave his captaincy up for Turner. It took a while for Trinity to wake up, and for the first 10 minutes you could see why Moortown were on a good run of form. It took time and a scrappy goal from Holloway to wake up the boys in green. The second goal came shortly after as Buckle managed to turn the defender in the box and slot it past the Moortown keeper to make it 2-0.  There was only 1 team in it from there, Moortown's heads were down and Trinity looked like they were going to run riot. Goal number 3 came again from Holloway as a 6 yard toe poke hit the unlucky keeper's leg and span over him into the goal. Minutes later, Holloway completed his hat trick, with a delightful chip from 30 yards and that summed up the way he was playing. Half time, 4-0 and everything was looking good. 

Half time 4-0. 

Lambert's half time talk was short and sweet and nothing but praise came out of his mouth, but Martin wasn't convinced with the performance. The second half started similar to the first. Trinity sat back as Moortown were trying to do what seems the impossible at the moment, scoring past Trinity. Everything was dealt with the back 3 and if it got through them, Field was there to collect everything that came his way. Half an hour into the second half, Holloway managed to round the keeper after some good football by Trinity and tapped the ball into an open goal, with Turner there wishing he passed to him to end his goal drought. Nobody can deny that Holloway deserved it though. Substitute Curran came on to cause problems and managed to make it 6-0 with a cool finish into the bottom right corner. That's how the game finished but Turner will think he should have made it 7 as he was 1 on 1 with the keeper, and to the delight of Greg "not", the man in black decided he'll after wait 1 more week and blew for full time. Overall, another convincing win, proving to be our biggest result to date. 

Subs:  Martin (for Jones), Curran (Buckle)

League

Colton 0 Trinity II 1

It was a beautiful sunny day in Leeds, the perfect setting for a monumental battle. Before kick off, Higgins gave praise to the way that this band of misfits, from across the country, had been able to form themselves into a solid team that was now battling for promotion, the league title, and for each other.

The first half was a tough fought battle. Both teams had multiple chances to open the scoring but failed. It was Colton that got into the game quickest and some early pressure from them almost resulted in an opening goal. Although some excellent runs from Curran did result in some good opportunities that Trinity were unable to take advantage of.

However, it was the referee’s insistence on gentlemanly language that was the highlight of the first half. His persistent battle against swearing resulted in multiple free kicks being awarded in some very dangerous positions for both sides. Fortunately for Trinity, Colton were not able to take advantage from these.

Half Time: 0-0

Higgins’ half time talk needed to be exactly what it was, open, honest, and harsh. Not one single Trinity player shied away from their own responsibilities and the second half saw every Trinity player stand up and fight. It was an almost instant reply. From the kick off Trinity stepped up the pressure and started to play like the team they are.

Injury forced Hobbs off early in the second half and he was replaced by Buckle. This didn’t change the flow of the game and Trinity continued to improve and take the fight to Colton. Excellent running up front by Turner and Buckle, and creative balls by the midfield saw gaps opening up in Colton. Holloway’s decisive positioning saw him exploiting the gaps left in the Colton defence and get into some fine shooting opportunities. Half way through the second half, after some more incisive passing by Trinity, the ball was played through to Holloway in the Colton box. His excellent first touch set himself up perfectly to drive the ball into the back of the net to put Trinity into the lead.

Trinity were able to continue to press forward on the attack with the knowing that the Trinity Wall of Beattie, Connolly, and O’Hanrahan were more than controlling anything Colton could throw at them. Any time Colton did manage to get a shot on goal, Field was more than a match for them. This included one excellent diving fingertip save to his left near the end of the game.

Further Trinity attacks saw good efforts on goal from Turner, Buckle, Holloway, and a deft lob by Williams, that would have not been undeserved had they flown in the back of the Colton net.

Final Score: 0-1

Subs:  Williams (for Jones), Buckle (Hobbs)

League

Trinity II 3 Thornesians II 0

Team manager Higgins often talks fondly of his days spent in the boy scouts (not literally) and still remembers many of the boy scout tips, none more so than the motto "always be prepared!".   With this is mind Higgins decided to bring the team meet forward by 6 hours, ensuring enough time for a vigorous military style warm up under the watchful eye of Beattie and a detailed player by player analysis by Captain Lambert.

As the two teams squared up it was obvious that Thornesians had 4 or 5 different faces than when Trinity had beaten them previously by 4 goals. The first 10 minutes of the game witnessed Thornesians' new faces making a difference to their play, particularly going forward with a couple of long diagonal balls played over the top for their speedy striker to latch on to. After some reshuffling at the back for Trinity and strong words by Beattie the defence got to grips with the Thornesian attack and looked mainly comfortable for the rest of the half.

Hobbs & Turner were causing a number of problems up front with their tireless pacy running, which enabled the Trinity midfield to push forward and take the ball dictating the pace of the game. Curran was looking particularly dangerous with a number of player beating runs, one resulting in a well saved shot from the keeper that Holloway pounced on to hit the back of the net and put Trinity 1-0 up before half time.

Half Time: Trinity II 1 Thornesians II 0

The second half started with birthday boy Paul Jones replacing the injured Higgins, Lumsden moved to the middle and Jones took position on the left of midfield. The Trinity defence started with a solid display that continued for the rest of the game and despite the fact that the Trinity team had been running for approximately 6 hours their higher fitness levels proved too much for the Thornesians side. Jones received an the ball on the left hand side and whipped an early cross into the danger area. Hobbs had lost his marker, producing a fine header that beat the keeper to make it 2-0 to Trinity.

With 30 minutes left to play Higgins introduced Buckle to the game, taking off Curran and moving Hobbs out to wide right. This gave Buckle the chance to put in a powerful performance up front and he quickly adapted to the pace of the game. Hobbs continued to play well down the right and provided a quality ball into the middle that was met by Jones who had drifted inside and hit a low shot into the bottom right hand corner. Lumsden played deep for the last 10 minutes.  Trinity remained strong as a unit and played out a deserved 3 - 0 win.

Team:  Field, Connolly, O'Hanrahan, Beattie, Curran, Lambert, Higgins, Holloway, Lumsden, Turner, Hobbs

Subs:  Jones (for Higgins), Buckle (for Curran), Martin (for Holloway)

League

Heckmondwike II 0 Trinity II 2

After the long Christmas break, Trinity faced one of their toughest challenges of the year in their first game back, against free scoring Heckmondwike II. The game could go a long way to deciding promotion places at the end of the year and with Heckmondwike 5 points ahead of Trinity, even with four games in hand, this was always going to be a real 6 pointer for Trinity. 

For the first twenty Heckmondwike showed why they are second in the table, with an energetic, attacking display. Trinity were sluggish after the Christmas break (apart from Field in goal who had incredibly lost weight over the festive period).  It was defence from the front from the boys in green, as Hobbs and Turner chased down every defender and the midfield closed down the gaps in the centre of the park. As the game progressed their were few real chances at either end. Field made a superb save from a shot by the speedy Heckmondwike right winger and Trinity were also fortunate to survive a header from one of the many dangerous long throws into the Trinity box. The opener came after half an hour of the first half. The ball was crossed in from the left hand side and Lumsden, with a deft flick, headed the ball into the net. 1-0 Trinity. That seemed to settle the Trinity team down, although at half time Heckmondwike could feel quite aggrieved that they were not level. 

Harsh words from Higgins and Lambert at half time were necessary as Trinity had not played to the standard they expect and were in danger of throwing the game away. The words were clearly heeded as the second half was a much improved performance from the Mook boys. Connolly, O'Hanrahan and Beattie were solid at the back and ensured precious few shots on goal. Lambert, Higgins and Holloway were splitting the Heckmondwike defence, with some lovely through balls. Lumsden and Williams were doing an excellent job not just going forward but also defensively tracking the useful Heckmondwike wingers, whilst Turner and Hobbs, were as usual getting themselves into space and crating plenty of chances. It was from one of these chances that Turner scored his 14th of the season, to make it 2-0 to Trinity. In truth Trinity were well on top now and were unlucky not to score more goals, with plenty of chances missed, when the hard work had been done. Trinity will be delighted that they have beaten one of their promotion rivals and kept a clean sheet against a high scoring team. With just the league to focus on it's crucial that every one stays focused next week and defends our unbeaten home record against Thornesians. 

Team:  Field, Connolly, O'Hanrahan, Beattie; Lumsden, Williams, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway; Hobbs, Turner 

Subs: Buckle (for Connolly) Jones (for Lumsden) 

Leeds & District Cup

Roundhegians III 3 Trinity II 2

After victory the week previous against higher quality opposition Trinity II went to their follow Division 3 opposition Roundhegians hopeful of making it in to the last 8 of the Leeds and District Cup. Having already beaten them comfortably in the league and seeing Roundhegians on a terrible run of form, this should have been an easy victory for Neil Higgins’ side. The team turned up at Soldiers field to learn that there was no changing facilities and the other games on the park had been called off.

Trinity, eager to play, were not disappointed when the referee gave the green light and got changed in the cold. The pitch was much harder than it looked with frozen patches all round and coupled with a black and white 1970's "casey" football there was going to be little quality football played today. Trinity made a couple of enforced changes with Lumsden replacing the injured Kyne at left wingback whilst Martin came in for the prolific Turner who decided to go to Sri Lanka. The omens looked good for Trinity early on as Lambert's lob put Holloway through, he held the defenders off but only managed to smack the bar from 6 yards out with Lumsden and Hobbs just failing to capitalise on the rebound and subsequent melee. Trinity continue to press and Higgins will feel he should have done better from a Holloway corner. At the other end O'Hanrahan and Connolly continued their excellent form man marking the home team's strikers with ease. Trinity dominated for the first 25 minutes before Roundhegians dug in and it was 0-0 at half time.

As the sides turned round Roundhegians scored with their first attack of the half.  The ball was given away allowing a low cross to be delivered and Roundhegians’ striker Seb Weekes got between O'Hanrahan and Field to clumsily make it 1-0.  Field was not at all happy with the challenge put in. It did not take too long for Trinity to equalise when Lambert's deflected through ball found Martin who could not really miss from 7 yards out and finished in to the bottom corner, to make it 1-1. Surely one winner from here??? - NO! Roundhegians came to terms with the conditions much better than the Trinity boys and found themselves 2-1 up when a half clearance fell to midfielder Craig Davey in too much space on the edge of the box and his looping shot swerved away from Field and in to the top of the net. Again Trinity hit back with an excellently timed through ball from Martin taken first time by Holloway in to the bottom corner of the net for 2-2.

Surely now Trinity's ability would shine through, again no. Curran replaced Williams as Trinity pushed very hard for the winner however a series of wayward shots and poor final balls failed to deliver any decent chances. Then Roundhegians scored again ten minutes from time. A corner from the right was met by Davey whose header gave Field no chance to make it 3-2.  This time Trinity were unable to equlalise.

Trinity were despondent at the final whistle.  After the excellent display last week perhaps everyone turned up expecting to win. Having said that no-one had a bad game, they were not under too much pressure and they battled to the end when things were not going to plan. The conditions were a major factor but take nothing away from Roundhegians, they maintained discipline, battled for everything and took the few chances that came their way. No matter what the conditions, the greens must learn to compete all over the pitch before they can start to play the attractive football that has seen them go eight games unbeaten in the league.

Best of luck to Roundhegians in the next round.  Trinity can now concentrate on the league

Team:  Field, Connolly, O'Hanrahan, Beattie; Lumsden, Williams, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway; Hobbs, Martin

Subs: Curran (for Williams)

Leeds & District Cup

Agnes Stewart 0 Trinity II 5

Greg Turner scored two as Trinity thrashed Division One side Agnes Stewart 5-0  to progress to the next round of the Leeds & District Cup.  John Hobbs, Dean Holloway and an own goal produced the other goals.  

After the postponement a few weeks ago due to frost, the East End Park pitch was in a bad way so this game was switched to St Theresa's as Trinity looked to maintain their unbeaten home record as well as cause an upset in the Leeds & District Cup. The game was highly anticipated by the boys in green, anxious to prove that they could hold their own against a team two divisions higher.

From the start the game looked to be a tight affair, highly competitive in midfield with both defences looking firm. Trinity in particular with Connolly marking a ‘Peter Crouch’ look-alike, O'Hanrahan his nippy partner and Beattie sweeping looked strong at the back. Both teams were mainly restricted to long range efforts until Hobbs was denied a one-on-one shooting straight at the keeper, this was followed almost immediately at the other end with similar guilt edged chance. However Field did excellently to rush from his line to prevent a shot on goal. With 30 seconds left and no chance of a counter attack Lambert decided to send a long throw in to the box, this caused confusion in the Agnes box and the ball fell to Turner who buried the ball in the bottom corner from 8 yards out, to make it 1-0 to Trinity. The perfect time to score.

An up-beat Trinity came out for the second half knowing the next goal would be vital and it did not take long to come. Good work by Kyne sent Hobbs through and he finished superbly from the angle, looping his shot over the keeper to make it 2-0. Soon after it was 3-0 and a similar finish by Turner (again), laid on by Williams, which left the keeper stranded. The visitors looked like beaten men when great hassling by Higgins sent Holloway clear who beat the keeper from just inside the box to make it 4-0.  Trinity introduced Martin, Buckle and Lumsden which added some energy for the closing stages. Some neat play involving Martin and Turner left Lambert in the box, his quick turn and low cross was bundled in at the back post by the defender to make it 5-0.  Lumsden, Hobbs and Holloway were all on hand to finish if the unlucky Agnes player had not got there first.

Trinity were denied a couple of very good penalty shouts as the game ebbed away, perhaps these would have been given in a tighter game. The Agnes frustration showed late on as their midfielder launched in to a terrible knee-high tackle on Kyne.  The offender refused to apologise and was lucky to stay on the field. Despite trudging off without a handshake to anyone the player did post an apology on the league website. There were muted handshakes almost all round as the game came to a close with the Trinity boys respectful in victory, other than Field who had been chanting "EASY, EASY" for the last 5 minutes of the game at full voice.

Team:  Field, Connolly, O'Hanrahan, Beattie; Williams, Kyne, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway; Hobbs, Turner

Subs: Lumsden (for Higgins), Martin (for Williams) Buckle (for O'Hanrahan)

League

Trinity II 5 Leeds Medics IV 1

It was business as usual for Trinity at the weekend after a very disappointing 2-2 draw the previous weekend. A very strong and almost unchanged Trinity set about the task right from the off against the only team to have taken 3 points from the home side throughout this seasons campaign.

Trinity looked very comfortable in the opening stages creating a number of chances with very little response from the visitors. Any threats were easily dealt with by the solid Trinity defence and with Williams now in his preferred wide right position, and Kyne wide left things were looking good going forward. The midfield battle was being well orchestrated as usual by Captain Lambert, with Higgins and Holloway taking up their usual role as playmakers and providers.

The early pressure seemed to pay off as Lambert with a quickly taken free kick curled the ball into the corner of the goal much to the surprise of the Medics keeper who was still trying to organise his defensive wall.  A perfectly legitimate goal which was then ruled out by the referee much to the disgust of the home team, and rampant supporters on the touch line.

Play continued with Trinity now more determined than ever to break the deadlock. Excellent movement by the up front pairing of Turner and Hobbs was running the Medics defence ragged. It was this movement that allowed a darting run from Lambert to carve through the defence and coolly slot home a much deserved opening goal, to make it 1-0 to Trinity.

The restart brought with it a far more determined Medics side with the conceded goal looking to be just the wake up call they needed. Medics began to push forward and with Trinity conceding a number of free kicks in dangerous positions it was only a matter of time before someone latched onto one of the excellent in swinging crosses from the fullback. After slack marking Trinity were punished as two of the Medics players were allowed to run free beating the defence to the cross. One of the attacking Medics managed to latch onto the cross and steer the ball home to level the score, 1-1.

The closing stages of the half were fairly evenly matched with chances falling to both teams. Trinity were probably the more unfortunate of the two sides after yet another goal was disallowed, this time Hobbs the scorer had his effort cancelled out after the referee judged a foul had been committed earlier in the move.

Half Time 1-1.

The second half began in much the same way as the first had ended with both sides fairly evenly matched. Trinity continued to create chances and if not for some fine saves from the Medics keeper could have taken the lead once or twice early in the second half. An injury to Lambert paved the way for Curran to enter the field of play to bring fresh legs down the left hand side. Slowly the momentum started to go Trinity’s way and a whipping free kick from Holloway was excellently tipped onto the bar with another outstanding save from the Medics number one. It was starting to look as though it was going to be another one of those days where nothing would hit the back of the net for the Trinity.  Just as the doubts began to creep in Beattie rose to head home from an excellently taken corner from Curran, much to the relief of the home side to make it 2-1.

The Trinity side now with the one goal advantage brought on the more defensive midfielder Lumsden to replace the attacking Holloway. The next twenty minutes brought another spell of pressure for the visitors and some slack defending almost gifted Medics another equaliser.  Some excellent defensive work by Connolly helped Trinity weather the storm and the tables began to turn again. This time the pressure paid off as Higgins rose like a salmon to head home from another well taken corner by Curran, to make it 3-1.  Surely now the three points would be in the bag.

A final substitution saw Jones on for Williams, to add another pair of fresh legs for the visitors to deal with. Trinity now with a comfortable lead began to play a more composed game and the chances began to mount. Just rewards for the outstanding pairing of strike force Hobbs and Turner as both netted in the closing stages. First was Hobbs after persevering all day, reacting quickest to a saved Turner shot and coolly slotting home to make it 4-1.  Then a long ball over the top was met by the head of Turner.  His header looped over the back tracking Medics keeper and into the net to make it 5-1, a worthy score for an outstanding performance by the growing Trinity outfit in less than perfect conditions.

Team:  Field; Connolly, Beattie, O'Hanrahan; Williams, Holloway, Lambert, Higgins, Kyne; Hobbs, Turner

Subs: Curran (for Lambert), Lumsden (for Holloway), Jones (for Williams)

League

Trinity II 2 Colton II 2

Trinity II played a team they would normally have expected to beat on Saturday with what was a very strong squad which included 3 subs.  Despite words of caution from both Manager Higgins and Captain Lambert about being complacent against their opponents who are struggling near the foot of the table Trinity still started slowly - in direct contrast to recent performances where they have started excellently.  Trinity nearly took the lead when a Williams through ball was collected by Hobbs but the keeper saved well at the edge of the box.  The defence was holding strong well marshalled by Beattie and although playing against the wind Trinity rarely looked like conceding.  Towards the end of the 1st half Trinity took the lead when Holloway’s run beat the offside trap to walk the ball round the keeper before taking about five minutes to control the ball and shoot into an empty net.  The half time whistle went with Trinity maybe a little surprisingly 1-0 up. 

Harsh words at half time from both Captain and Manager and Trinity seemed to start the second half much brighter.  Trinity were creating more chances and won a succession of corners.  Colton's keeper however was performing well and Trinity couldn't extend their lead.  However about 20 minutes into the half Williams picked up the ball approximately 40 yards from goal wide on the right.  Spotting the keeper off his line his amazing cross/shot managed to fly over the keepers head and into the back of the net in the biggest fluke seen at Trinity since Beattie scored a few weeks back , making it 2-0 to Trinity.  Trinity were now in control.  Turner hit the post and Hobbs laid the rebound off to Kyne who narrowly missed.  However it was Colton who scored next when the ball dropped on the edge of the box and left back Terry Wilson rifled the ball back in to the top corner.  With about fifteen minutes remaining Higgins introduced Curran and Lumsden to hopefully see out the remaining time and secure the win.  Lumsden was immediately called into action clearing off the line.  Trinity were defending well and looked likely to hold out.  However with seconds left the ball was knocked across the box and the ball was knocked in from Tony Parker two yards from goal.  Trinity 2 Colton 2.  As Lambert knocked the ball forward the referee blew the whistle and a disappointing result for Trinity who will hope to return to winning ways next week.

Team:  Field; Williams, Beattie, O'Hanrahan; A.Martin, Holloway, Lambert, Higgins, Kyne; Hobbs, Turner

Subs: Lumsden (for Holloway), Curran (for Martin)

League

Thornesians 0 Trinity II 4

Another convincing win keeps Trinity II third in the league, just 3 points behind leaders Heckmondwike but with 2 games in hand. The 5th consecutive win began when a speculative looping shot from Holloway managed to find its way past a Thornesians’ keeper, who has surely had better days between the posts, to make it 1-0. Holloway was again involved in the second goal, laying the ball off to Kyne.  His wondrous goal bound strike from the edge of the box was deflected by John “goal thief” Hobbs past a stranded keeper, to make it 2-0. The sharpness of Hobbs and Turner was causing the Thornesians’ back line all sorts of problems and it wasn’t long before Hobbs made it 3-0 with a calm finish from close range. Hobbs was unlucky not to complete a first half hat-trick when his firmly struck shot was kept out by the crossbar. It was not nice day to be the Trinity goal keeper. Field had very little to do with his back three keeping Thornesians penned in their own half. Buckle, O'Hanrahan and Lumsden were winning everything in the air. All this pressure was becoming too much for the Thornesians’ rear guard and it was only a matter of time before goal machine Turner completed the first half rout by adding Trinity’s fourth and his 10th goal in only 9 games. Trinity entered the half-time break 4-0 in front.

Although there were no goals in the second half, Trinity’s dominance was clear. Maynard’s pace and trickery was continuing to cause the Thornesians’ right back all sorts of problems and he was probably the most relieved person on the pitch when a recurring groin injury forced the impressive Maynard to be replaced. Jones and Connolly were quickly on the pace of the game and were unlucky not to add to the goals after a couple of nice link up plays, one of which ended in a thunderous Connolly shot being denied by the crossbar. This came straight from the training ground, Jonesy takes out the keeper to clear the way for Connolly. Unfortunately this time Connolly may have been put off by a screaming keeper and shouts of 'put the ball out!'

Once again Higgins, the player manager, sacrificed his place in the starting line-up to keep faith with a winning team. However, in the last ten minutes he showed his class with a quality through ball to Turner who was unfortunate not to finish. All in all it was another encouraging display from an ever-improving Trinity side, against a Thornesians side who other teams will find hard to get a result against (as it’s very difficult to find the ground!)

Team:  Field; Lumsden, Buckle, O'Hanrahan; A.Martin, Holloway, Lambert, Kyne, Maynard; Hobbs, Turner

Subs: Jones (for Maynard), Higgins (for Holloway), Connolly (for Buckle) 

League

Moortown OB 2 Trinity II 5

Greg Turner grabbed two goals as Trinity II recorded their fourth win on the trot.  Angus Martin, Dean Holloway and Mark Lumsden scored the other goals as they climbed to third place in the table with a 5-2 victory over Moortown OB.

An average at best display by Trinity II led to a convincing win over a Moortown team who had in the week preceding the match publicly boasted about the comprehensive beating that would be coming Trinity’s way.

Two goals from the unstoppable goal machine that is Greg Turner along with strikes by Lumsden, Martin and a Beckham-esque free kick by Holloway gave all three points to the visiting Trinity team. Selfless management by Nelly Higgins meant that he once again left himself on the bench along with Paul ‘Jonesy’ Jones and Colin Buckle to preserve the winning formation that had started the previous two matches. 

A pitch that could also be used as an outdoor ski slope in winter months saw the Trinity side having to attack up hill in the first half and the strikers in particular found the going tough. Moortown were first to score but a resilient and battling Trinity team equalised soon after. Following that a 4-1 lead was built and with the introduction of Buckle, Jonesy and Higgins in the second half the team looked comfortable and attacking before a lapse in concentration saw Moortown pull one back. A deft flick by substitute Buckle allowed Lumsden to register his first of the season and bury the game late on.

Team:  Smith; Williams, Beattie, O'Hanrahan; Lumsden, Holloway, Lambert, Kyne, Maynard; A.Martin, Turner

Subs: Buckle (for Maynard), Higgins (for Kyne), Jones (for Holloway) 

League

Trinity II 4 Roundhegians III 0

Greg Turner and Richard Lambert both got two goals apiece in an impressive Trinity display, as they beat Roundhegians III 4-0 to make it three wins in a row.

Trinity took control of the game early on and never really looked in any danger.  An excellent first half performance should have resulted in a far better scoreline than 1-0.

Both Trinity strikers were guilty of missing good chances before Greg Turner slotted home (just!) after rounding the keeper following good build-up play, to make it 1-0.  The goal was deserved and really there should have been a few more. The Trinity midfield were in good form, with Adrian Kyne making a strong impression. At the back, aside from an excellent tackle by Adam Beattie there were no real problems, with O’Hanrahan doing a fine man marking job on the main Roundhegians goal threat.

Keeper for the day, Gareth Curran, did everything that was asked off him although in truth he did not have to make any saves of note.

Into the second half and Trinity continued to dominate although perhaps not playing with the same fluidity as was shown in the opening 45 minutes. Hobbs came on for Martin up front with around half an hour to go and quickly got involved.  Trinity soon scored their second goal.  Turner's corner was side footed in at the far post by Lambert to make it 2-0.  

Higgins and Jones then came on for Holloway and Lumsden to add more energy (perhaps not in Jones’s case) to the midfield against fading opposition. Further goals soon followed.  Turner scored his second of the game with fifteen minutes to go.  Receiving a pass from Higgins he shot low into the corner of the net from the edge of the area to make it 3-0.  The scoring wasn't over yet.  Turner skillfully beat a defender before crossing low into the area.  It was partially cleared but only into the path of Lambert who drove the ball into the back of the net from just inside the area, to make it 4-0.  This sealed an excellent display from the fast improving Trinity side.  

Roundhegians comments after the game indicated that they felt Trinity were by far the best team they had faced so far this season.

Team:  Curran; Williams, Beattie, O'Hanrahan; Lumsden, Holloway, Lambert, Kyne, Maynard; A.Martin, Turner

Subs: Hobbs (for A.Martin), Higgins (for Kyne), Jones (for Lumsden) 

Leeds & District Cup

Amaranth 2 Trinity II 3

Trinity made hard work of beating off an Amaranth side that never really looked up for the challenge.  They started brightly enough with some nice passing moves down both wings, but the final ball in was often lacking.  Rayon Maynard’s pace in particular was worrying Amaranth’s back four and the early signs were promising.  The breakthrough eventually came 25 minutes into the game when a low corner was swung into the near post and Angus Martin got his foot on it to direct it past a stranded keeper.  This should have been the cue for Trinity to turn on the pressure and kill off a weak Amaranth side, however, Amaranth fought back and their confidence was boosted with a couple of half chances before the break.

Trinity began the second half with their best move of the match.  A sweeping move along the right hand side gave Adrian Kyne a shooting opportunity from the edge of the error which went agonisingly wide.  Two minutes later though Amaranth were back in the game.  Slack marking on the left hand side allowed Amaranth’s number 9 in to slot home a good finish.  Trinity restored their lead 15 minutes later.  Dean Holloway played a good ball through to Greg Turner whose shot was parried by the keeper.  Maynard followed up the rebound and hit a shot that was certain for the back of the net until an Amaranth defender’s arm went up and blocked it.  Holloway converted the penalty with a cool finish into the bottom right hand corner to make it 2 -1.  Trinity were then put under sustained pressure, which eventually paid off with Amaranth’s second equaliser of the match.  Amaranth certainly felt that the game was there for the taking and continued to attack.  However with two minutes to go a good break from Trinity put Gareth Curran in on goal.  He hit a low shot that the keeper could only block.  The ball bobbled around the area until being hit into the net by Turner.  Amaranth will probably feel that they should have got more from this game whereas Trinity have to be happy with the result, particularly as the performance was well below par.  Howevewr they progressed through to the next round.

Team:  Field; O'Hanrahan, Buckle, Beattie, Lumsden; Maynard, Lambert, Holloway, Kyne; A.Martin, Turner

Subs: Curran (for Martin), Jones (for Kyne)

League

Trinity II 3 Wortley II 1

Top of the league and with a 100% record Wortley were the visitors this weekend for Trinity. After the pre season game which saw Wortley hammer Trinity 6-0 or something like that, they must have thought it would be a walkover. In the dressing room, the boys were looking focused and determined after last week's humiliating performance. 

From minute 1, Trinity had the better of the play, had more determination and more chances. It took about 15 minutes for the first breakthrough when captain marvel Lambert's 25 yard strike swerved and skidded through the keeper to make it 1-0. Wortley looked like they were getting into the game, but didn't really trouble Beattie and Buckle at centre half, making Wortley shoot from distance, which Field was never going to be threatened. Just before half time, it was 2-0. An Angus Martin corner was sent in low and somehow went into the back of the net following a back heel from Turner. 

The second half saw Wortley in the game more. They had a couple of chances, a low drive to the near post which wasn't too difficult for Field, and a free kick, which was tipped onto the bar. Still Trinity looked the better side having chances of our own. Wortley managed to pull one back midway through the second half when their striker beat Field to the ball and put them back in the game. The game was sealed with 15 minutes to go, when again from a corner, out of nowhere came the shiny head of player manager Neil Higgins to finish with a header into the bottom corner. That goal we could safely say was game over, which it turned out to be. 3-1 to Trinity and by far the best performance of the season so far.

Team:  Field; O'Hanrahan, Buckle, Beattie, McAulay; Lumsden, Higgins, Lambert, Kyne; A.Martin, Turner

Sub: Holloway (for Kyne) 

Hancock Cup

Batelians II 3Trinity II 0

Trinity fell at the first hurdle in this season's Hancock Cup as Batelians II triumphed 3-0.

Batelians took the lead after fifteen minutes.  Trinity defender Eamonn O'Hanrahan tried to head clear a long throw that came into the box.  Unfortunately he diverted it over the head of Lee Field in the Trinity goal and into the back of the net. 1-0 Batelians.  Trinity applied a lot of pressure on the Batelians defence but couldn't really create any goal scoring chances.  Then Batelians doubled their lead before half-time.  A Field goal-kick was headed back over the Trinity defence for the Batelians' forward to run onto.  He neatly lobbed Field to make it 2-0.

Trinity had a lot of possession in the second half but couldn't turn it into attempts on goal.  Fifteen minutes from the end Batelians got a third.  A long ball was played forward by the Batelians defender.  O'Hanrahan and Beattie collided in their attempt to head the ball, resulting in O'Hanrahan flicking the ball into the path of the Batelians' forward.  He neatly rounded Field before slotting the ball into the back of the net to make it 3-0, which is how the game finished. 

Team:  Field; O'Hanrahan, Rogers, Beattie; P.Jones, Lumsden, Higgins, Lambert, Kyne; A.Martin, Turner

Subs: Bicheno (for P.Jones), Stringer (for Kyne), T.Martin (for Lumsden)

League

Modernians IV 3Trinity II 5

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSHHHHHHH!

Trinity started the match like a rocket last Saturday to record their first win of the season.

The Mods defence were put under some significant pressure from the start with a series of rapier like attacks and several corners. However against the run of play, a quick clearance from Mods, didn’t look like troubling the Trinity defence until Tim Martin was bundled over leaving Mods young striker with a clear run on goal. Whilst, Lee (potty mouth) Field rushed out to narrow down the angle, the ball was calmly tucked away. Despite significant protests that Martin had been fouled, Mod’s 12th man wearing all black and masquerading as the referee, ignored the protests. Field (swearing like a docker) attempted to rationalise the situation and express his feelings of dismay in respect of the decision. The referee clearly sympathised with the arguments Field put forward.  However, Field was given a brisk verbal dressing down by the Mods number 12 in regard to his tone in articulating his point of view.

Not deterred by the travesty of events which had led to the 1-0 deficit, the player manager Neil (Sommerville) Higgins, gripped the proverbial bull by the horns and encouraged the dismayed Trinity players to redouble their efforts.

After another succession of attacks a well struck shot by Angus (I’ll claim it) Martin was cleared off the Mods goal line only to be catapulted like a proverbial pinball against an unfortunate Mod defender – the ball found the gap which had eluded Trinity and flew into the net. Technically most would say an own goal – but not in the eyes of A.Martin who has added this Wimbledon style goal to his tally for the season.

Football was eventually the winner as Lambert (man of the match) slotted a pass through the defence which was promptly pounced upon by Greg Turner, who dinked the ball over the keeper and gave Trinity the lead they so justly deserved.

Trinity continued to attacked and with the wind of confidence in their sails they continued to pummel the Mods defence into submission. Trinity were then again caught by a sucker punch when a quick clearance was latched upon by the Mods left winger, the ball into the path of Mods young striker who levelled the score – 2-2.

After a Sommerville reshuffle of the pack at half time and the introduction of Eamonn Kissane to add more fire power upfront, Trinity got the early break through they were looking for.

Turner added Trinity’s third goal early in the second half and explained to the Mods manager using the medium of sign language the significance of the goal.

From then on only luck kept Mods in the game as Beattie and Dave Rogers remain resolute at the back and provided the platform for the attack biased wingers to express themselves. The best passage of play in the game involved several of the Trinity players in an excellent series of passing exchanges and culminated in an exquisite shot from Maynard which hit the cross bar.

Mods again levelled the score with some significant assistance from the referee who failed to see the striker was clearly offside.

This was the time which really tested the mental strength of the Trinity players to a man the players ‘manned’ up and showed great character to again increase their effort. The break through came from Adam Beattie – after receiving the ball on the left hand side – Adam stepped forward, 35 yards out an not far from the side lines many defenders would have been content with picking out a big man in the box, not young Beats. Having spotted the keeper out of position and slightly off his line – he took aim for the top corner and fired, the trajectory of the ball, combined with the whip and spin of it’s delivery were reminiscent of Ronaldinho’s goal against England in Japan. The Mods keeper, like Seaman, was left floundering in no mans land as the ball flew over his head and into the top corner of the goal. A goal should live as long in Beattie’s memory as the tales from his time in the navy.

Trinity kept playing the football and were rewarded with a fifth goal – John Hobbs tireless running eventually paid dividends to put the game beyond doubt.   5-3 Job done.

Team:  Field; T.Martin, Rogers, Beattie; A.Martin, Lumsden, Higgins, Lambert, Maynard; Hobbs, Turner

Subs: Kissane (for T.Martin), Holmes (for Maynard)

League

Trinity II 0 Centralians III 0

On Saturday, the first home game of the season saw Trinity II take on Centralians III. Confidence was high in the Trinity camp, (although the word camp is one the team is trying to distance itself from, after recent revelations concerning their sponsors Mook!)  After the disappointment of lasts week late defeat, the Trinity boys were determined to put their first points on the board, against a team who had also lost their first game.

Starting with the favoured 3-5-2 formation, Trinity started at a very high tempo. Centralians were unable to get out of their half for the first twenty minutes and the midfield of Higgins, Lambert and Holloway were totally dominating the game. Ironically the control Trinity had on the game was proving to be counter productive, as Centralians were putting everyone behind the ball in a desperate attempt to keep the score line level. Chance after chance came and went. The best falling to Holloway and Higgins, where as a header from Clubbs went agonisingly wide from a well taken corner.

The remainder of the half went much the same way as, Lumsden and Maynard weaved past opponents on the wings, and Centralians struggled to live with their pace and trickery. However just before the break Centralians had two golden opportunities to open the scoring. First the Centralians number 10 got to the ball before the defence to flash a cross/shot across the Trinity goal. Which was soon followed by a shot that was headed over, although Lee Field claimed he had it covered. Apart from that scare Centralians went into half time relieved to be level and the Trinity team were left scratching their heads as to how they were not in front.

The second half started in much the same fashion as the first. The ball was smashed the ball against the bar twice and there was a sense amongst the Trinity team that this going to be one of those days. Trinity began relying on shots from distance as frustrations grew and a terrible offside decision, from possibly the oldest referee in the country, robbed Trinity of a clear one on one with the keeper.

For the last twenty minutes the back three of O'Hanrahan, Clubbs and Beattie, who had had little to do, suddenly came under increasing pressure, as Centralians realised the possibility of a 1-0 smash and grab job. Field in goal had a solid game making all his catches and making an important punch from a dangerous cross. Man of the match Beattie was particularly impressive as he broke up the Centralians attacks, winning all his headers and tackles. Clubby covered any balls over the top, whilst O'Hanrahan easily dealt with  the small 12 year old who came on as sub for Centralians.

It was not to be though. The final whistle left a very relieved Centralians team and a very frustrated Trinity team with a point each. On the bright side, if Trinity can keep up this level of performance the wins are sure to come!!!

Team:  Field; O'Hanrahan, Clubbs, Beattie; Lumsden, Higgins, Lambert, Holloway, Maynard; Hobbs, Turner

Sub: Hansen (for Maynard)

League

Leeds Medics IV 3 Trinity II 2

History was made on Saturday when The Yorkshire Old Boys League saw its first ever clash of brand new Bright Yellow and Bright Green strips, and with the Trinity boys parading 'MOOK' across their chests, many thousand supporters left before the first whistle shaking their heads. It was also the first ever match for the newly formed Trinity second team and they had a strong line up to face a Medics team, apparently strengthened by the lack of games for their 1st and 3rd eleven.

On a very poor pitch, Trinity lined up with their favoured formation of 3-5-2 and found themselves chasing shadows in the very early stages of the game, as they tried to settle down in new surroundings. Medics took the lead with a well worked goal.  On the break the right winger sent an early cross which found Matt Armstrong unmarked at the back stick.  He side-footed home giving Lee Field in the Trinity goal no chance and starting a mini debate amongst the Trinity boys. It could have been 2-0 soon after when a long ball fell to their large ginger midfielder. However his finishing left him with a matching hair/face complexion and the boys in Green had been let off.

This sprung Trinity in to action and Higgins, Kyne and Lambert soon took notable charge of the midfiled.  Beattie, O'Hanrahan and Lumsden shored up at the back. For the remainder of the half Trinity seemed to win every header, every tackle and every second ball.  This gave Maynard and Turner much more ball on the wings and in turn Angus Martin and Holloway started to get chances. First of all Turner whipped in a great ball to the near post after some good build up play.  Holloway got a glancing header in which caused problems and eventually the hurried defense cleared to safety. Soon after their keeper could not hold a well hit volley from outside the box by Lambert.  The ball fell to Angus Martin six yards out but unfortunately it fell to his weaker left foot and the ball ended up over the bar. Trinity were also denied a clear looking penalty when Turner was unceremoniously 'dumbed' in the box by the Medics large, camp looking, centre half.  Plenty of positives at half time to spur Trinity on for the remaining forty-five minutes.

Trinity started as they had finished with Maynard in particular causing the home team problems with his close dribbling and again they were denied a pretty good penalty shout when he was hauled down from behind in the box. Trinity equalised soon in to the half when good pressing by Angus Martin and Holloway up front forced an error and presented Turner with a clear run at goal.  From a narrow angle he put the ball in the back of the net to make it 1-1. Soon after Trinity's dominance showed again as a well place Neil Higgins free kick was headed back across goal from the back post area by Lambert which fell at the feet of Holloway.  He managed to control the ball, spin and put the ball in to the roof of the net despite being held back to make it 2-1.

If the Trinity boys need to learn one thing from the game it is how to kill a game. Angus Martin was very unfortunate not to have a couple of goals with shots blocked on the line and there was another good penalty shout with Maynard again being manhandled in the box. Trinity made two changes bringing on Morris for goalscorer Turner and Tim Martin for Maynard.  These perhaps (no detriment to those coming on) unsettled the teams pattern of play. As the clock ran down it seemed like a winning start was to be had, but with three minutes to go all that changed. Medics won a corner on the left and when the ball was swung over Field appeared to be impeded as he came to claim the ball in his own six yard box.  This was not given and a Medics player headed towards goal, only to be blocked on the line by a great one -handed pounce from Tim Martin. Given the state of the game the referee was extremely lenient and kept Martin on. However the team was punished when Medics forward Tim Leslie mis-hit his penalty and it ended up going in off the cross bar. The spurred the Medics on and they got an unlikely winner in injury time. Lambert conceded a free kick a good thirty-five yards from goal.  Leslie struck it low and hard but straight at Field in the goal and it managed to squeeze through his forward dive and trickled in to the back of the net Massimo Taibi style. It was obviously a mistake he held his hands up for.  However Trinity boys should take note that had he spilled it they had not tracked the two Medics boys who had followed up un-checked.

Plenty of positives to take from the game and several players yet to return which will boost the Trinity squad. No one had a bad game and for long periods Trinity dominated at the back, across the middle of the park and worked hard up front. 

Team:  Field; Lumsden, Beattie, O'Hanrahan; Turner, Higgins, Lambert, Kyne, Maynard; Holloway, A.Martin

Subs:  Morris (for Turner), T.Martin (for Maynard)

Pre-season Friendlies

Wortley II 6 Trinity II 0
Centralians II 1 Trinity II 0
Trinity II 5 Cross Flatts 1 
Griffordians 7 Trinity II 0
Trinity 3 Trinity II 2

A mixed set of results for Trinity II as they tried to gel as a team before their first league campaign.  As a result of injuries and holidays many players weren't available.  However they showed against Cross Flatts, a team Trinity's first team had played a few days earlier, that they were a team to be reckoned with notching an impressive 5-1 victory

The last pre-season game saw an excellently fought game with the first team.  Greg Turner and Richard Lambert scored the goals in a close game, which suggested there'd be a lot of competition for places this season.