Half-time deficit overturned by brilliant second half

A brilliant second half performance gives Club Thorne another win and increases their chances of promotion after beating East Riding Rangers 4-2. 

It was a poor start to the game for Thorne as they conceded only five minutes in. A mix up at the back gifted the East Riding striker an easy finish past Dixon-Brown. 

The home side doubled their lead through a long throw meeting the head of their striker who then flicked it in and off the post. 

Thorne were definitely second best in the first half, failing to get a shot on target up until the 40th minute when Chris Spinks had a well-driven volley saved by the East Riding keeper. 

Down at the break, O’Neil knew his team had to step up in the second half, and they did just that. Three minutes into the half, Ethan Harrison pulled one back for Colliery after flicking the ball in from a low cross. 

Thorne continued to attack the Rangers’ defence and the hard work paid off. Just 15 minutes after the first goal, Jordan Hall converted Colliery’s second, after Spinks delivered a corner perfectly onto his head giving the keeper no chance in stopping it. 

The goals didn’t stop there. A composed Ethan Harrison put Thorne into the lead after slotting it past the keeper in the 73rd minute. 

Not even a minute later, Harry Brown stole the ball from the East Riding midfielder and fired a shot on target, the keeper got a strong hand to it, however, the ball curled back and into the net, making it 4-2 to Thorne completing the comeback. 

Another win for Thorne, four goals scored again in one game and it’s looking very likely for them to be promoted. They sit at the top of the table, twelve points clear with only six games to go, promotion is likely, but they will not celebrate too soon. 

Psychology in Football

Football is not only a physical challenge but also a mental one as well. The psychological aspects of the game play a significant role in shaping individual and team performances. Most clubs use sports psychologists to support players and staff in performing to the best of their ability. These psychologists help the players maintain motivation, resilience, emotional control, and well-being while playing at such a high level. 

Sports psychologists are also used for players going through injuries. When a player gets injured, it has a huge effect on their mental health. This is due to the fear of not making it back into the team or, in the most tough stages, not being able to do anything due to mobility issues. The psychologists work alongside the physios in order to bring the players back into the game in the correct way, both mentally and physically. 

Sport psychology helps footballers train with more focus, keep consistency, play with more confidence, and reflect more effectively after a match.

One of the most important psychological aspects of football is self-belief. Self-belief shapes a player's confidence in their abilities and judgements on the field. A player with high self-belief is more likely to trust their instincts and make better decisions on the pitch, even in high-pressure situations. If a player or a coach doesn't believe in their own abilities, they will most likely perform at a lower standard due to them second-guessing their decisions or missing certain opportunities. Strikers are prime examples of players who need to adopt self-belief. If they miss 10 shots in a row, they need to keep going and believing in themselves. Once that goal is scored, they pick themselves up and go for more. 

Psychology plays a pivotal role in understanding the various motivational factors that drive football players. By identifying individual and team goals, psychologists and coaches can help players stay motivated and focused on achieving peak performance. The ability to set challenging yet attainable goals, combined with effective motivation strategies, can have a significant impact on a player's commitment, perseverance, and overall drive to succeed.

Andrea Pirlo once said, 'Football is played with your head; your feet are just tools'. This proves that to be a successful footballer, you have to have the right mindset, and this is where the psychology side of football becomes a major aspect of the game. A good mentality eliminates weaknesses in a player's game and keeps them playing well consistently. 

Psychology helps in fostering team cohesion and effective communication among players. Understanding each player's personality, motivation, and communication style is crucial for building a cohesive team. By employing psychological principles, coaches and team leaders can create an environment that encourages open communication, fosters teamwork, and builds a strong sense of unity among players, leading to good team performances. 

Football is generally hard to deal with mentally. This can be due to decisions not going your way, lowered confidence, bad performances, or even opposition players getting into your head. Plus, injuries, suspensions, and the media pressuring players—there are many things in the game that affect players mentally. This is why sports psychologists are used to cope with them and toughen the brain. The hard times in football can be used to make you stronger, to motivate you, and to get you back to your good performances. They are also there to humble you and stay grounded, which is important for young players so they do not get too carried away with themselves.

Being a professional football player is not only physically draining, but it is also mentally draining. The number of hours the players work, the amount of time they are away from their families and friends, and a lot more work that goes on behind the scenes drains the players’ minds. Sports psychologists come into the clubs to help the players deal with all the pressures that they deal with on a day-to-day basis and continue performing at the highest standards they can. 

Football players face immense pressure both on and off the pitch, navigating the expectations of fans, coaches, teammates, and themselves. To cope with this pressure, players employ a variety of strategies, including mental preparation, visualisation techniques, and maintaining a positive mindset. They focus on their training regimen, honing their skills to ensure they perform at their peak when it matters most. Additionally, players often rely on the support of their teammates and coaching staff, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collective responsibility. 

Beyond the physical aspects of the game, footballers also prioritise mental resilience, staying composed under pressure, and learning from setbacks to continually improve. Ultimately, the ability to thrive under pressure is a hallmark of elite footballers, as they embrace the challenge and channel their energy into delivering standout performances when it counts.

All in all, psychology is a huge aspect of football. It is the driving force behind how players play and act in games, training, and just their day-to-day lives. The amount that goes on behind the scenes in football is dealt with through psychologists and a huge team of people looking after the players and getting them through injuries, pressures of the game, winning and losing, and dips in performance. Football is not only a physical game; it is also a very mental game, with so many different things to think about and train your brain to deal with.

Club Thorne Victorious Again

A clean sheet, three points and four goals on the road for Colliery as they continue their title charge in the Humber Premier league. 

Thorne dominated the first ten minutes of the game, pinning the Hedon defence in and refusing them to step foot into the Colliery half. 

Verhees had the first shot of the game, after a brilliant high press he aimed for the near post, but the Hedon goalkeeper denied him the opener.  

Not long after, Verhees was at it again, this time his effort beat the keeper, but was kept out by the underside of the crossbar. 

Thorne were unfortunate not to be ahead at half time, but they would be proud of the first half performance, the opposition didn’t get a second to breathe. 

Just a few minutes in the half, Thorne lost Dom Mellor due to an ankle injury that came through a good challenge from the Hedon defender. 

Almost seventy minutes into the game, captain Harry Brown opened the scoring after the ball fell into his path, he volleyed it straight into the bottom corner. 

It was then two goals on ten minutes from Thorne, Ethan Harrison doubled the lead on his return from injury, then, substitute, Toby Marriott hit a third past the keeper after some good build up play from Colliery. 

Lewis Walker then put the icing on the cake after he made it four for Thorne, he was fed through and finished calmly. 

Thorne sit top of the league still with a mighty seven point gap between them and second place South Cave United. They will be looking to keep building on this in order to move up the English football pyramid. 

Club Thorne 4-1 Beverley Town Reserves

Club Thorne’s stylish second half performance puts them 7 points clear at the top of the Humber Premier League with a third straight home win against Beverley Town Reserves. 

Thorne didn’t have the best of starts to the game, after failing to clear their lines in just the fourteenth minute of the game, Beverley took advantage and went in front. 

This didn’t stop Thorne though, they responded to this mistake with chances up the other end of the pitch, leading to the in form Joe Pugh firing home from the penalty spot.

It wasn’t the best first half from Thorne, but Jimmy O’Neil had a lot to say to his side in order for them to turn the result around. 

The second half kicked off and it only took Thorne ten minutes to respond, Tom Hinton’s corner was whipped in to perfection and then fired home by debutant, Jamie Green. 

After this, Colliery were relentless to the Beverley defence, forced two brilliant saves from the away sides’ keeper, one clipping the crossbar. 

It wasn’t long until Thorne got their third, Henry Parr received the ball down the left wing, his cross was then fired goal-wards and the keeper catches but fails to stay outside of the goal.

Almost instantly, Thorne found their fourth, Henry Parr again crossed the ball in to perfection, finding Tom Hinton who hit it first time past the keeper. 

It’s another three points on the board for Thorne, three home wins in a row and top of the table with just nine games to go, can they go on to win it? 

Football and Community: How Local Clubs and Organizations Foster Unity and Inclusivity

Many local communities are brought together by football. There are examples in almost every town in the country of how football can bring together communities of kids, adults, and even elderly people. Most local football teams have age groups from 4/5 up to adults playing football. This creates opportunities for kids to develop skills, have fun, make friends, and be competitive. When you get older, it becomes more serious but still, it is about friendship and togetherness and discipline, it teaches you valuable life lessons in endless ways, it proves who the true lovers of football are and it keeps you a part of that community. 

Not only does it provide a platform for the kids to grow up learning skills and developing a football career, but it also develops a career in coaching for those taking part. It’s the start of a career that is usually funded by the local teams to collect the coaching badges and gain the valuable experience needed in coaching. 

Local teams also provide safe spaces for people to exercise, learn, and have fun. Usually, they keep kids in certain areas off of the streets mixing with crime and on the pitch keeping fit and learning important life skills. The clubs provide funding to the local councils and community as they generate their income from local ticket sales, player fees, and in some cases, merchandise. 

So the benefits that local teams have on the community are huge, they provide opportunities in and out of football, they teach people valuable lessons, and provide jobs and money needed in certain areas that need it to develop schools, local social centres, and the overall community. 

Hackney Wick FC is a prime example of a football club that works with the community, to give people opportunities and to even save lives. Made up of a group of volunteers, the club describes themselves as not being 'your regular football club' and they share that their 'ethos is based on community engagement, uniting the local diverse groups as well as battling peer pressure and tackling gang influences' which showcases the clubs' goal to better the community through a shared love of the game. 

Hackney Wick doesn't just give people the opportunity on the football pitch, they also offer educational workshops, sporting opportunities, mentoring, and access to work opportunities which gets people off the streets, out of the gangs, and into a good place with lots of positive opportunities. Moreover, they offer training, employment, and community projects that promote health and well-being alongside community safety.

One prominent example of a big team helping the local community would be Liverpool. They actively engage with the local community through the Liverpool FC Foundation, which focuses on creating life-changing opportunities for children and young people. The foundation's initiatives cover a wide range of areas, including health and well-being, sports participation, and educational support. The club's players and staff actively participate in community outreach programs, visiting schools, hospitals, and community centers to inspire and support residents. The impact of Liverpool FC's involvement in the community has been substantial, emphasizing the profound influence that a football team can have beyond the stadium.

Another example of a community-based team is my local club. Club Thorne. A club built for the community. The emphasis of Club Thorne is to be a football club at the heart of the community. As a non-profit organisation, the club works with schools and communities to deliver projects that make a difference to the local community. The club offers many opportunities for young people to play football and enjoy themselves and then when getting older and progressing through the ages, the cub offers huge opportunities to play football at a fairly high level. The club also offers many different opportunities outside of playing the game, they offer ways into coaching such as funding the course, they offer to fund referee courses and they offer roles inside the football club such as groundsmen, media jobs, and bar work. 

Fans. The most important part of football. Lots of different people come together to support a team and help build the team to become a rock for the community and togetherness. Fans don't only motivate players on the pitch, but they also give the club the funds to function and grow and keep playing the game. Fans are hugely important to smaller teams as they are the main income to run the club. However, their importance isn't just money related, it is about the togetherness, people coming together from all different genders, nationalities, races, and all different backgrounds to watch a team play for 90 minutes a week and all of them loving each other, backing each other and focusing on this one team. 

It's safe to say that community in football is so highly important, it ranges from keeping people safe to funding coaching badges or helping local charities. I think football is a huge platform to promote safety in communities as it brings so many different people together and gives people a passion to keep them busy and away from danger. Football offers so many different opportunities and so many positives can be taken from the game. How can you not love the beautiful game? 

By Cian Stringer 

Club Thorne Increase Chances of Winning the Humber Premier League

Club Thorne extend their lead at the top of the Humber Premier League to 9 points after their 3-1 home win over Recketts AFC. 

From the start, Thorne were clearly the more dominant side, with chances from Joe Pugh and Callum Verhees inches away from giving them a lead within 10 minutes. 

However, Colliery led within the first half an hour, as Joe Pugh put them ahead following a rebound off the post from Verhees’ shot. 

Then, only seven minutes after, Tommy Waud brilliantly placed a 25 yard shot into the left corner following a run which started on the halfway line. 

Despite having a few good chances, Colliery finished the half two goals to the good and looked comfortable in the game. 

Thorne controlled the second half, having many chances early on and they continued to bully the Recketts side throughout the half. Then, in the 73rd minute, Jordan Hall put Thorne three goals up following a game of pinball in the Recketts area. 

Recketts pulled one back in the 89th minute following a slight mix up in the Thorne defence, but it was not enough as that would be the only chance of the game for them.  

Thorne continue their spectacular form and sit top of the table, 9 points clear with just 10 games to go. After the game, we interviewed Joe Pugh, he went on to say the lads are now “on a stream train” and that they have to just “keep going” . 

The Importance of Darwin Nunez

Darwin Nunez. A player who receives the most attention in the Premier League. A mix of good and bad attention. But he definitely does not receive enough good attention. 

A vital player to the Liverpool team. The Reds have four losses all season, all four have come when Nunez hasn’t started the game. Plus, his impact as a substitute is one of his main attributes as a player that goes unnoticed by rival fans. 

Nunez creates so many chances in every game he plays in, he has so many shots, makes brilliant passes and his speed is a big advantage to his game. Yes, he has missed some questionable chances, but he positions himself so well to get into these chances. This then puts Liverpool into more attacking situations which they can capitalise and convert from, taking them to the results they need. 

Watching Darwin can be so stressful at times, but also so mesmerising. He has all the right ideas and everything that a striker needs apart from a consistent goal conversion rate. Obviously he has a lot to improve on, but his potential is so brilliant and he could potentially be one of the best strikers the premier league has ever seen. 

A bit of confidence will take Nunez to where he needs to be, consistent scoring and good results from him will bring him to his full potential, it might go a bit down hill when Klopp leaves but if the right manager comes in and gives him his chance in the team, that’s where he will thrive. 

Trent Alexander-Arnold: The Scouser in our Team

Trent Alexander-Arnold is a professional footballer known for his outstanding skills as a right-back and his impressive career with Liverpool FC. Born on October 7, 1998, in Liverpool, England, Alexander-Arnold began his journey in football at a young age, showing promise and determination that would set the stage for an incredible career.

Alexander-Arnold joined Liverpool's academy at the age of six and quickly caught the attention of coaches and scouts with his natural talent and passion for the game. His dedication to his craft and exceptional performance in the youth ranks earned him a place in the first team, making his senior debut for Liverpool in 2016 at the age of 18.

One of the defining moments of Alexander-Arnold's career came during the 2018-2019 season when he played a pivotal role in Liverpool's success, including their remarkable journey to win the UEFA Champions League and that night at Anfield in the build up to it. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, his defensive prowess, and his composure on the ball propelled him to the forefront of the footballing world.

Internationally, Alexander-Arnold has represented England at various youth levels and made his senior international debut in 2018. His inclusion in the England national team showcased his remarkable progress and further solidified his reputation as a rising star in the world of football.

Known for his exceptional athleticism, vision, and technical ability, Alexander-Arnold continues to impress fans and critics alike with his performances on the field. His contributions to Liverpool's success and his remarkable journey from academy prospect to first-team regular serve as an inspiration to young footballers around the world.

Off the pitch, Alexander-Arnold is recognized for his philanthropic efforts and community involvement. He has used his platform to support charitable causes and inspire the next generation of athletes, demonstrating the values of humility and giving back to the community.

As he continues to hone his skills and make significant contributions to both club and country, Trent Alexander-Arnold remains a shining example of talent, dedication, and sportsmanship in the world of football. His journey serves as a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance in achieving success at the highest level of the sport.

A couple of seasons where he was doubted by rival fans, called bad at defending, times where he was not included in the England squad due to his performances. But he silenced them. He built his way back up into the national team. He showed that form is temporary, but class is permanent. Now, he is the vice captain of Liverpool and has won everything he can do in English football. 

With each match, he continues to make his mark on the footballing world, leaving a lasting impression that cements his status as a rising star and a role model for aspiring footballers everywhere. The future holds boundless opportunities for this talent, and the world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in his illustrious career.

Trent Alexander-Arnold's journey is one of inspiration, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence, and his impact on the world of football is destined to endure for years to come. 

🎶 The scouser in our team…

Jurgen Klopp's Departure: A New Era for Liverpool

He’s more than just a manager, his presence brings love and togetherness. He changed a team from doubters to believers, he got the whole Liverpool fan base to love him within a season of him being there. What a man, what a manager! 

After six successful years at the helm of Liverpool FC, Jurgen Klopp has announced his departure from the club, marking the end of an era for the Reds. Klopp, whose passionate touchline presence and tactical acumen won the hearts of Liverpool fans around the world, leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

The German manager took charge of Liverpool in October 2015 and led the team to unprecedented success, including the historic Premier League title in the 2019-2020 season, ending the club's 30-year wait for the top-flight domestic championship. Under Klopp's guidance, Liverpool also captured the UEFA Champions League title, showcasing their dominance in European football.

Klopp's departure comes at a pivotal moment for Liverpool, as the club looks to navigate through a transitional period. His impact on the team's playing style, player development, and community engagement has been profound, and his departure leaves big shoes to fill for the next manager.

As the football world absorbs the news of Klopp's departure, Liverpool fans and pundits alike are left to ponder the legacy he leaves behind and the future direction of the club. The search for Klopp's successor will undoubtedly be a matter of intense speculation and scrutiny, as the new manager will be tasked with upholding the high standards set by his predecessor.

Moreover, Klopp's departure signals a turning point for Liverpool both on and off the pitch. The club faces the challenge of rebuilding and reshaping its squad while maintaining a competitive edge in domestic and international competitions. The transition to a new managerial era will require strategic decision-making and a clear vision for Liverpool's future.

Despite the emotions surrounding Klopp's departure, there is also an air of optimism and gratitude among Liverpool supporters. Klopp's unwavering passion and commitment to the club have left an indelible mark on the Anfield faithful, and his influence extends beyond the realm of football. His charitable work, charismatic leadership, and genuine connection with the fans have endeared him to Liverpool supporters worldwide.

As Liverpool bids farewell to Jurgen Klopp, the club finds itself at a crossroads, poised to embrace change and embrace the dawn of a new chapter. The impact of Klopp's departure will be felt across the footballing landscape, with Liverpool's next steps garnering significant attention and anticipation.

In the wake of this momentous announcement, the football world stands witness to the departure of a managerial icon and the beginning of a new era for Liverpool FC. Klopp's legacy will forever be intertwined with the history of the club, and his departure marks the closing of one chapter and the opening of another in Liverpool's storied journey.

As the Reds prepare to embark on a new chapter in their illustrious history, the enduring spirit and legacy of Jurgen Klopp will serve as a guiding light, inspiring the club and its supporters to move forward with hope, determination, and an unwavering belief in the future that lies ahead.

Gainsborough v Morpeth Match Report

Gainsborough v Morpeth 

The first defeat of 2024 for Russ Wilcox’s Holy Blues after a 90 minutes of football packed with drama and controversy saw the home side narrowly miss out on any points from the fixture. 

A dominant start to the game by Trinity, they were treated with the first shot on target of the game as Fraser Preston tried to cut it on the right and curl one in with his left, however he couldn’t generate enough power to beat Lowson in the Morpeth goal. 

Morpeth reacted quickly as Bollado was set free down the right hand side, he couldn’t create a goal though, as the captain, Dylan Cogill, got over to divert the shot wide. 

The biggest chance of the first half saw Howe beating the keeper after a well-timed through ball from Preston found him, he shot from a tight angle and the shot was blocked by Chris Reid which injured him, forcing him to be replaced early on. 

Trinity beautifully played the ball around the midfield, creating some great chances and dominating the ball for most of the first half. Howe had a notable chance again after a George Hornshaw cross planted at his feet, his shot Wales’s saved well by Lowson, just before the offside flag was put up against him. 

The main action of the first half was very late. Morpeth’s counter attack was stopped twice as Bobby Johnson made two fouls in the build up, the first was him pulling back Bollado, then the second was a tactical foul on the same player. The referee then pulled out two yellow for both of the challenges and Johnson was dismissed. 

The score at half time, 0-0. 

Morpeth had a dream start to the second half. 2 minutes in, Nic Bollado opens the scoring after he converted a low cross into the area, beating Dylan Wharton, who went 227 minutes without conceding a goal. 

Some more great attacking play by Trinity, moving the ball about quickly and convincingly. More controversy as Daniel Barlow brought down Daniel Devine, play continued and Howe was through on goal, however, the referee then called it back for the foul, denying Trinity an equaliser, stopping a potential goal. 

Morpeth then doubled their lead through Jack Foalle in the 57th minute. He was sent through and beat Ashley Jackson down the left hand side, then beating Wharton as his shot went across the face of goal. 

Trinity then found a way to break the Morpeth offside trap as Dayle Southwell put a great ball over the defence to find Declan Howe, Howe took it past the keeper and tried again from a tight angle, this time his shot went across the face of goal and out for a goal kick. 

Wharton made an incredible save as Donaldson had a chance to triple their lead, he was played into the 6 yard box and his shot wasn’t bad, but a strong right hand from Wharton denied the goal. 

The Blues kept attacking and trying to finish a chance, there was a tremendous ball from Bailey Conway which met Southwell for a volley, the volley comes into Howe but Lowson does enough to get there first and deny Gainsborough a way of coming back. 

A few minutes later, Lewis went so so close to bringing Trinity back into the game, another great ball from Hornshaw found  in the centre but his effort was just sent over the bar, Trinity were putting so much pressure on the Morpeth defence and came close to a goal. 

Tavonga Kuleya came on for the final 10 minutes and showed off a promising cameo, he created a few chances and made some impressive runs with and without the ball down the right hand side. A player to look out for in the coming weeks. 

The final drama in the match came in the 94th minute of the game as Chris Lynn was dismissed for a dangerously late and high challenge on the loanee Kuleya. 

The final whisky blew out minutes later and Gainsborough had fallen short of a point in dramatic fashion. Russ Wilcox had his say on the game after the match where he suggested that if the home side had stayed with 11 players on the pitch, they would have won the game comfortably. Daniel Devine had a positive say on the first half saying that Trinity “played some of the best football he’s seen since he’s been at the club”. 

A dominant first half was overturned due to the unfortunate red card and it completely changed the game. The Blues will look past the loss and take the positives out of it to focus on the next match, Matlock away.