Category: Club News

Mickleover Reds Go Down In Table Topping Duel

by Peter Scherer

Mickleover Reds, the second year Academy team, arrived at Stafford Rangers, undefeated without having conceded a goal.

In this table topping encounter the opening 15 minutes gave an indication of the task ahead.

There had been no early attempts on goal from either side, but after 14 minutes Stafford won a free kick, which was fired well over the bar.

Only a minute later there was another attack from Stafford, after they collected a poor kick from Mickleover goalkeeper Tom Smith.

Mickleover’s first real attack soon followed, when Josh Satchwell, playing at the back, combined well with Brodie Carter to win a corner.

Stafford’s leading scorer Jayden Hunter had already been a tough opponent and kept Satchwell and Cameron Anthony on their toes in the centre of the Mickleover defence, earning a corner which went to waste, after 19 minutes.

Much of Mickleover’s play seemed to stem from Satchwell, but after Stafford made a break on goal, Smith came hurtling out and fouled the home striker, earning himself a yellow card.

Ben Lewin and Will Robinson both worked hard on the overlap, but the final ball continued to fall short of the Mickleover strikers, amidst a flurry of hard tackling from both sides.

Hunter had a shot across the face of the goal after 34 minutes, before Carter responded with a shot just wide, earning a corner, but the closest yet for Mickleover.

It could easily have been 1-0 for Mickleover three minutes later, when George Atwal crossed and Kai Moore just failed to connect.

Although Louis Pennington and Ted Stevenson continued to push forward, Stafford were threatening still too. 

Hunter collected the ball off the back of Satchwell’s head, before Smith safely collected it.

In the closing minutes of the first half, Pennington was fouled , but Atwal’s shot cannoned into the wall and away. Stevenson then had a good clean shot, forcing the Stafford keeper into a diving save.

There had been few clear cut chances for either side in the first 45 minutes, but unusually there was a lack of precision and ideas from the Mickleover side, earning them a stern talking too from coach Pablo Mills.

The second half started with promise, when after 49 minutes Robinson shot down the wing, whipped passed the approaching Stafford keeper and put a challenging ball into the box at Moore’s feet. But unfortunately he failed to connect.

Jacob Edge-Lucas came into the game more and some of his creativity seemed to help Mickleover push forward. He led a break after a Stafford free kick, which gave Carter a half chance.

Five minutes later Mickleover rued their missed chances, when after holding off Pennington’s challenge, Hunter fired a missile of a shot into Smith’s top left hand corner 0-1.

Hunter was set on goal again on the hour, but his weak shot was easily blocked by Smith. There seemed far too many free kicks given by the Mickleover team, but after Kyran Ward had come on, he combined with Edge-Lucas with a sniff of an equaliser.

Any hopes of pulling the game back were dashed however, when in the 75th minute Hunter rounded Anthony to turn the ball into the area, before a fellow Stafford striker hit the ball home from close range, 0-2.

Fin Barker came on for Mickleover, just before Ward had a clash of heads with a home defender. Both players required treatment before the game continued.

Barker pushed hard to create space, but was fouled three times in one run. Edge-Lucas then had a shot blocked by the keepers feet and then in the closing minutes, Pennington layed the ball back just falling short of Brodie’s run.

With the whistle already being raised, Edge-Lucas was fouled on the edge of the box, but Pennington’s free kick sailed high and wide and it was game over.

Mickleover First Years Do The Double Over Belper

by Peter Scherer

The Mickleover First Year Academy took their second win in four days, when they visited Belper Town yesterday.

Having beaten Belper in the first game of the season, hopes were high for a repeat.

The home side previously failed  to pick up a point in their previous six games, so it was no real surprise that Mickleover’s fire power overcame the Nailers Academy, returning home as 5-1 victors.

They are now level on points with the Second Year Red squad, having played three games more.

Both of Mickleover’s sides are due to play each other at Borrowash next Monday, the first of two meetings for the sides during April.

Player Insight: Will Monteiro

by Peter Scherer

Young striker Will Monteiro joined Mickleover last July and has been part of the first team squad throughout last season.

Did he always want to be a footballer?

From a very young age, football was a massive part of my life, from playing at school with friends, to playing competitively on a Sunday.Ever since then, I have strived to keep to keep on improving as a footballer, to give myself the best opportunity to get to the highest levels possible.

He started at Rotherham Utd but then won sports scholarship.

I was at Rotherham from 12 to 16 before being released. My former coach Tom Newey spoke to me about an opportunity at a school who were offering sports scholarships to high level sports people, and after seeing the facilities and the standard of sports there, I decided it was the best place for me to go and develop my football.

He’s played in a few different positions, but how did he settle as a striker?

Playing different positions helped me understand the game from many different aspects and also allowed me to improve my own game. It was the decision of Tom Newey that I went to Queen Ethelburgas, and he decided he wanted me to lead the line for the team, and this was the best decision he could have made for me. It massively improved me as a footballer.

So how did he come from a private school in Yorkshire to sign for Mickleover?

The gaffer saw me playing for Queen Ethelburgas and approached me about coming to play for Mickleover. Once I had spoken to him about his plans with me and I had seen the standard of the players there and the teams we play against, it was a no brainer that it would be the best place for to develop my football.

Having scored on his debut at Clipstone, that must have helped him settle in?

It was a really nice moment for me and yes it did help me settle in massively. The support and the buzz of the lads when it happened, really made me feel welcome and part of the team.

As a striker does he prefer playing as a holding target man or running at defenders?

I think it’s important to have an all round game, so I’m unpredictable to play against. I think I need to be able to hold the ball up so the team can build attacks off me, but also run the channels and stretch the pitch.

Is he hoping to progress in his career or is he happy playing at his current level?

I’m always striving to improve to try and get to the next level. I think if you don’t have the hunger to try and get to the best level you can, then your performances and attitude will drop, which will affect the team.

He’s been doing the zoom sessions with the rest of the players during Lockdown, so has it helped team spirit?

Even though they are really tough, they are really good for the team spirit and keeping us engaged with each other. It’s also allowed us as a team to come back as fit as possible and maintain the high standards we set before Lockdown.

But what does he do away from football?

Not a lot to be honest, if I am not playing I’m watching. I do like a bit of gaming and I try and make time to be with family and friends.

What would he normally do before a match?

The day before is when I really start to prepare for a game. I like to eat pasta the night before and I also do a little foam rolling and stretching. I’ll always make sure I’m in bed at a reasonable time too.

We know it was a short season, but was he surprised how well it went?

I wasn’t really surprised because training with the lads you see the quality of the team and standards that are set from the Gaffer and senior lads. Once the train started, I don’t think there was any stopping it as a team, we didn’t fear anyone.

So when you heard the season was declared null and void, what was your first reaction?

I was really gutted to be honest. Being top of the league, we were flying and it felt like the hard work we had put in had gone to waste. However with the group of players we have, I know we will go into next season with as much drive and determination as we had this season.

What is his personal aim for next season?

To keep on improving and hopefully become a regular starter for the team.

What has been his fondest footballing memory so far?

I have got many memories, but one of the fondest was scoring in a semi-final for Queen Ethelburgas, sending my team to the final at MK Dons.

Victory For Mickleover Academy First Years

by Peter Scherer

Having their match switched from home to away, Mickleover Academy first years came away from title challenging Rushall Olympic as 3-2 winners.

The opening goal came after six minutes, when Devon Smith put the ball in from the left for Emilio De Abreu to slot it home 1-0.

Only a minute later there was another chance from a free kick, but although Smith connected there was no power in his effort.

Mickleover began threaten more and more, with De Abreu having another shot saved after 11 minutes and five minutes later he was on the end of a break but his shot was saved.

Shots were reigning in thick and fast and after 18 minutes if was 2-0. A lovely through ball from central midfield split the Rushall defence and Smith was there to put t home.

After Smith had another effort land on top for the net, Rushall had their first real attempt on goal after 24 minutes, only to shoot straight at Fin Bowen in the Mickleover goal.

Just before the half hour De Abreu earned a corner after going close again, but from the break Bowen was called into action again, diving at a Rushall strikers feet.

Rushall started to open up in the last third of the first half, but after De Abreu went close once more, Lennon Higgins tried his luck, but shot straight at the keeper.

With one minute left on the clock, Rushall pulled one back after Bowen had come out to narrow the angle, so they went in it half time with a 2-1 scoreline.

They had barely kicked off the second half and it was 2-2, after Haider Amin unfortunately had the last touch, before the ball found itself in Bowen’s net.

Mickleover’s first half domination had gone, and it was Rushall piling the pressure on.

After 53 minutes Bowen was forced into another save, before Smith was on the attack again, with de Abreu just failing to connect.

Smith continued to threaten and had a couple of attempts on goal.

But after 56 minutes Rushall had a chance straight in front of goal, but failed to capitalise.

Rushall’s strong start to the second half then began to fade and with Joe Nzeyimana beginning to threaten more, he was able to provide telling through balls on a couple of occasions.

After 71 minutes Rushall hit the post with Bowen beaten, before Smith had a crack from outside the box.

Both Higgins and Tom Griffiths began to overlap more as the scent of a possible victory returned.

De Abreu had a shot tipped over in the 84th minute, before Bowen had another attempt to save.

But two minutes later De Abreu pulled out a shot in scrambled goal mouth and it was 3-2.

Rushall had one last chance with a direct free kick just outside the box in the final minute, but with the shot well off target, it was Mickleover returning home with three points.

They are back in action again on Thursday away to Belper Town.

Player Insight: Elliot Murray

by Peter Scherer

Elliot Murray is one of the younger members of the first team squad having graduated from the Academy.

Did he always hope to become a footballer though?

Yes my aspirations from a very early age were to be a footballer. My Mum always believed I would play at a higher level when I was older and here I am enjoying my football at Mickleover.

So where did his footballing start?

I played local grassroots matches from the age of five and was then scouted by Aston Villa for a short spell, until I was offered an opportunity with Derby County.

I was at Derby for five years and then at 16 I came to Mickleover in the NPL Academy.

Has he always played a defender?

No, at an early age I played right midfield and striker. It was during my time at Derby I played in defence and this is where I have grown and developed my defensive skills and experience.

Is he still hoping to progress up the footballing ladder career wise, or happy to play at his current level?

My passion for football will always be with me, whether playing or participating in some other form, like coaching, but I will always strive to do my best.

He had nasty injury after a few games, so did that make the seasons disruption even more frustrating?

Because we were in Lockdown I didn’t feel I missed out as much as I would if times had been normal. To some degree this helped me keep the correct state of mind.

Have you have been doing zoom sessions with the rest of the players during Lockdown. Does it help with team spirit?

I wasn’t able to join in the zoom sessions due to my injury, but I think it was a great way to keep the players motivated, and helped on a social level as well.

So what does he do away from football?

I enjoy socialising with my friends, gaming, spending time outdoors and at the golfing range.

What would he normally on the day before a match?

I’d attend the gym and work on strengthening and conditioning exercises. Then in the evening chill and relax in readiness for the match.

We know it’s been a short season again, but were you surprised how well it went?

Disappointing the season was cut short, but no I wasn’t surprised as the team had worked extra hard day in day out to put themselves in the fully deserved position they were in.

When you heard it confirmed that the season was null and void, what was your first reaction?

Personally as I was injured and the football being cancelled, I just focused on my recovery and rehabilitation in anticipation of returning to football.

What is his personal aim for next season?

To make a full recovery, which allows me to return to playing at full strength and back to a high standard.

What has been your fondest footballing memory?

Travelling abroad with Derby County Academy and winning the overseas tournament as captain.

Player Insight: Louis Pennington

by Peter Scherer

Another one of our home grown talents, midfielder Louis made his first team debut this season, after coming  through the Mickleover  Youth scheme.

Local lad Louis had always wanted to be a footballer, but how did he get spotted to sign up?

I entered a two day trial put on by the first team and a few weeks later I was involved in a pre season game against Borrowash Victoria with the first team, where I performed well. Then I signed with the first team and have been part of the squad all season.

He’s normally played as a midfielder, but is that his favourite position?

Yes I’m usually in midfield, whether attacking or defending. However I also enjoyed playing both full backs on occasions. But my favourite position would be central midfield.

Have you had any schoolboy favourites from football, who you either feel inspired by or wish to emulate?

I’ve always had an association with Paul Scholes wherever I’ve played, and have recently been influenced by him after watching many videos, but my favourite player is David Silva as I’m a city fan.

Away from football what does he like doing?

I usually play footie with my mates and recently I’ve been getting massive into the gym routine.

You have been doing zoom sessions with the rest of the players during Lockdown, does that help keep the team spirit going?

Yes I’ve had so much fun doing all the squats and burpees put on by Watty, but it’s been good keeping the squad together through lockdown.

What would you normally before a match?

Early wake up to eat a good meal, then stretch and listen to music mostly.

We know it’s been a short season again, but are you surprised how well it went?

Yeah the team played really well in the season and ended top of the league, so it was a good season to be part of.

What have you missed most during these Lockdown’s?

Mostly playing games every weekend and not being able to socialise with mates.

What was your first reaction when you heard the season had been declared null and void?

I was quite disappointed, as we had a good chance of being promoted this season, but I’m confident we’ll repeat ourselves next season.

What has been your fondest footballing memory?

I played in a very successful youth team at Mickleover winning the MJPL three years in a row along with many cups and competitions around the country, including the Barcelona Cup. One of my fondest memories in football would be representing Coerver UK in Madrid for an international tournament playing against other countries from all around the world.

Although my most fondest memory in football was making my debut for Mickleover at home in the FA Cup this year.

Ready For The Restart?

by Peter Scherer

April 17th is the date when the Don Amott Spring Cup and the Central Midlands League Chairmans  Cup both kick off for a few weeks of frenetic action to conclude this interrupted season.

With the majority of the first team unavailable, the teams will made up of reserves and academy players.

In the Spring Cup we start with an away tie at Borrowash Victoria on the 17th, followed by another match at Borrowash against FC Ingles.

On May 5th we visit Gresley Rovers and conclude on May 8th at Ashby Ivanhoe.

In the Chairman’s Cup we start with Holbrook St Michaels away on the 17th, before playing Hilton Harriers on the 24th at a venue to be decided.

May 5th it’s away at Hilton and on the 11th it’s the return match against Holbrook. The quarter finals are due on 15th, semi’s the 22nd and the final on Saturday 29th.

“We are still trying to sort a venue for the home legs, but neither Holbrook or Hilton are a bogey side, so we are confident of reaching the knock out stages,” said reserves manager David Mackenzie.

The two Academy sides are also due to restart, with the first years at home to Rushall on April 12th, before visiting Belper three days later, while the unbeaten second years start with Stafford away on the 15th.

WHERE WAS DAVE MAC?

Maybe he was having “tee” but reserves team manager David Mackenzie gives us some clues on why he missed most of the first half of their friendly match last Friday.

Our game against FC Sez was played at Eastwood, which is a “fairway” from either club, but the facilities were not “rough”.

It was great to see the players again though and that their families are well too.

I missed the first 37 minutes as I was playing at Chevin. What I did see was that we were in total control and only some quality saves prevented a goal before half time.

In the second half we added goals to the already quality passing and creation of space. Will Monteiro netted three and Bobby Battisson scored too, while an excellent save from Final Bowen kept a clean sheer for us.

Some of the play was “ace” and most pleasing was the fitness levels and the speed the ball was passed. Plus we had the chance to bring in Emilio De Abreu and George Atwalto the squad, with a “stint” in the second half.

It was so one-sided that it may have been fair to have given us a “handicap”.

For those that still haven’t guessed what I was doing, I won “4 and 3” while in the football we won 4-0.

D.Mac
Mickleover FC Reserve Team Manager

Player Insight: Bobby Battisson

by Peter Scherer

Bobby Battisson is a midfielder who began his football in Spain, before coming to the Mickleover FC Academy at the beginning of last season.

Has he always wanted to be a footballer though?

Since I was about four or five I always knew I wanted to be a footballer. It was a dream and when I moved to England from Spain it was a different experience though, with the style and tempo of the game.

So how did he come to be at Mickleover?

I played for Malaga in Spain, so when I came to England I had quite a lot of interest from English clubs, Wolves, Derby County and a few others.

He then signed for Burton Albion and played in their Academy.

They were quick to offer me a contract. I was 12 years old and played there for three years, until I was 15 and got released. Then I started to play for Mickleover under 18’s.

He is best down for his darting runs as an attacking midfielder, but is that he favoured position?

My preferred position is definitely central attacking midfielder. I had always played in the centre until the last couple of years, from where I have gone more attacking to rack up the goals.

Has he got a role model, or someone he wished to emulate?

Growing up I have always been a fan of Messi and sometimes love jumping onto YouTube and watching clips of him and his movement, because there’s so much to learn from him.

What does he do when he’s not playing football?

I like to spend some time with mates and go down to the local park for kick about.

He’s been doing zoom training session with the rest of the squad during Lockdown. Has that helped?

Yes it helps maintain our fitness and keep the spirit going within the team.

So what does he like doing before a game?

I tend to listen to music, this helps me focus and prepare for the game. I also try to eat a good amount of carbs, so that I have energy to get around the pitch and put in a shift.

Was he surprised how well the team had done last season?

I had been a short season, however we technically finished top on an unstoppable streak of winning and I believe 100% that if the league wasn’t declared null and void, we would would have secured promotion.

Charlie and Dave Are Our Latest Lottery Winners

One of our Supporter’s Lottery winners, Charlie Divers, was presented with his winning prize this week – £60 for Premier Western Food Stores!

Dave Chambers also received his £50 worth of Body Shop products – will keep him clean and smelling fresh!

For just £2 per week you can help Mickleover FC by signing up for this great cause with great prizes!

You can now sign up online

Download and fill in the online PDF form using the button below. Once completed just email it to lesloring@gmail.com