Match report coming soon

• Man of the match -
• Fair play winner -
• Scorers -
• Assists -
• Cards -
• Referee -
• Attendance -
  

Having started the season strongly in the league, USL were determined to begin a successful cup run in the Junior Challenge Cup-one of Bedfordshire FA’s county cup competitions. A home tie to north Bedfordshire side Sandy FC ‘A’ provided an unknown challenge to Wilson’s men but one they were determined to rise to. Despite missing key players such as Fear, Butler and Jefcoate were still able to name a strong line up with Simpson and Mitchell coming in for their first starts of the season. In the glorious sunshine Galacticos were put through their warm up routine but were then forced to wait for kick off by a Sandy team that arrived at 2.25.

The past two weeks USL have come out flying straight from kick off but this week they were slow to start and were punished as Sandy took the lead with a superb strike around five minutes in; having been given far to much room the Sandy midfielder strode into the box before hammering into the top right corner - stand in ‘keeper Mitchell left stranded. This appeared to be the wake up call Galacticos needed and it was no surprise that Brunton and Howe took the game by the scruff of the neck and started dictating play from the centre of the park. On 13 minutes the boys in purple were back on level terms; a pinpoint cross field ball from Brunton picked out Wilson who controlled the ball sublimely but failed to beat the on rushing ‘keeper, however Malone was close at hand to fire in the rebound. USL continued to create chances but took a further 20 minutes before finally taking the lead. Having collided with strike partner Smith just outside the box, Wilson smashed home the bouncing ball past the ‘keeper left. Smith then produced two moments of top quality finishing to put the Luton side three goals ahead. His first was a delightful lob before holding off a last ditch challenge to curl into the far corner. With USL unwavering in their desire to play attractive passing football Sandy began to loose their cool and were lucky to finish the first half with 11 men. Some disgraceful play from Sandy’s captain, Grahame Ward, saw him get away with kicking out twice after the ball had gone and a horrendous challenge on Brunton; with the USL number 7 jumping for a header the Sandy number 6 didn’t even look for the ball as he plough in leading with his elbow and studs raised into Bruntons back. Sandy’s number 8, Adam Jones, was also fortunate to get away with a number of cynical late challenges. Half-time: USL Galacticos 4 v 1 Sandy FC ‘A’

The second half began as the first ended as USL continued to have too much skill and speed for their opposition and did not take long to extend their lead. Iskra grabbed his first of the afternoon slotting home from close range. Wilson latched onto an Iskra through ball, held off two defenders to beat the ‘keeper at the second time of asking. Wilson was involved in the next goal as skinned the Sandy captain inside the box only for the defender to crudely push over the attacker; how he even tried to claim his innocence was beyond everyone. Nevertheless captain Howe stepped up to slot away the penalty for his fourth of the season and USL’s seventh. Dan Taylor and Chris Malone caused problems all day down the USL right and a cross from the right back ended in Iskra poking home his second. Excellent interchange between Brunton and Wilson put in Smith who somehow scooped the ball over the keeper from seven yards out to complete his hat-trick. With the game won USL were able to give Trinder and Royle a run out and a debut for Whittamore, the latter unfortunate not to put his name on the score sheet as his header was cleared off the line. A few moments of complacency at the back were cleared up by Fay and Pazik who were magnificent all day. With the referee failing to get on top of Sandy’s late challenges all afternoon it was no surprise that a USL player ended up getting injured and carried off. Having allowed so many bad challenges to go unpunished it came as little surprise that a horrendous, late and high challenge that forced Wilson to be carried off only received a yellow card when most would have expected red. USL continued to play their football and the outstanding Brunton, having waltzed through the black and white defence, cut back for Iskra to fire in for his second hat-trick in as many games. Full-time: USL Galacticos 10 v 1 Sandy FC ‘A’

Despite being pleased with the score line, Manager Wilson was understandably furious with the display of the referee and some of the Sandy players. “Those who know me know I do not get wound up easily but some of the challenges that went unpunished today were beyond belief. No-one wants to see lots of bookings but if the ref had clamped down on some of the challenges in the first half, as he had warned he would, then I do not see how they would have continued to fly in. It surprises me that Sandy think their captain, Grahame Ward, is fit to lead that team; I think he was everything bad about football today. To be fair they had some decent players in that team and the majority of them were decent lads but a few spoiled it for everyone.” The ref did not aid his reputation amongst USL supporters when he also thought the game had finished 9-1, failing to have recorded one. Thankfully USL’s assistant manager Childs records all scorers and times and the referee accepted his mistake to correct the score line.

On a more positive note Wilson was full of praise for the way his team stood up to the challenge of going behind early on. “That’s the first time we’ve been losing all season and it was good to see we responded in the right way by continuing to play our football with the confidence that we’ve got the ability to come through. I can’t say a bad word about anyone today; Matt was outstanding in centre mid along side Ricky who did an excellent job of keeping peoples heads on the game. Gavin classed showed today with his impressive hat-trick and link play and despite a shaky first ten the defence found their feet and made it look easy from then on - I’m not sure Dave really had anything to do.”

An emotional afternoon and the USL train continues to build up steam, next week see’s them back in league action against new boys AFC Slip End. With a talented squad at their disposal many are surprised with the villages slow start to the season but Galacticos hope it will continue at least for another two weeks as they play them again the week after in the William Pease Cup. Kick off next Saturday is at 2.30 at USL’s home ground at Luton Road Rec.

A date for your diaries: in the next round of the Junior Challenge Cup USL Galacticos are away to Wilshamstead F.C. Reserves on Saturday 8th November with a 1.30 K.O.

• Man of the match - Matt Brunton
• Fair play winner - Kieran Fay
• Scorers - Paul Iskra 3, Gavin Smith 3, Peter Wilson 2, Ricky Howe 1 and Chris Malone 1
• Assists - Peter Wilson (3), Gavin Smith (2), Dan Taylor (2), Matt Brunton, Pavel Iskra, Tony Simpson
• Cards - None
• Referee - Tony Dolphin 70/100
• Attendance - 14
  

With the sun shining brightly, USL could not have asked for better conditions for their first home game at their new ground of Luton Road Rec. The opposition, Stopsley Park, were out to avenge their 5-0 preseason friendly defeat and also try to get the first points of their Luton District and South Beds Football League campaign. After last week’s demolition of Crown Sundon, Wilson was able to name an almost unchanged line up with only ‘keeper Fear away. Striker Smith enthusiastically volunteered to take his place and show his self proclaimed ‘cat like’ skills between the sticks. Last year’s player of the season slotted into midfield to make his first start of the season.

Despite having to cut their regular warm up routine short, USL still came out fighting hardest and were rewarded with an early goal when Jefcoate met a Brunton corner with a superb volley that left the Park ‘keeper helpless. Galacticos built from the back time and time again but were let down by poor passing and finishing in the final third. Park defended hard but were forced into two early substitutions due to injuries and were forced to rearrange their line up. USL took full advantage of this as they found their shooting boots, banging in five goals in 12 minutes; a ten minute hat-trick for player manager Wilson, a second for Jefcoate and one for Iskra. Wilson’s first came from a delightful through ball from Butler that Brunton skillfully stepped over to fool the defence as Wilson sneaked in to curl home. His second a minute later came from a perfectly weight ball from Brunton which he coolly slotted past the on rushing ‘keeper. Brunton then picked out winger Iskra who cut inside and rifled home. Wilson completed his hat-trick with a neat turn and powerful shot from close range before Jefcoate met another Brunton corner, this time with his head, to fire USL into a commanding half time lead. Half-time: USL Galacticos 6 - 0 Stopsley Park 2nd XI

Galacticos will impress teams this season with their ability to pass the ball around and create chances through well worked team moves, however it was route one football that gave the a goal straight from centre at the start of the second half; Jefcoate to Wilson, Wilson to Brunton, Jefcoate run as fast as you can to meet the ball over the top and slot home before bundling into the ‘keeper. There was slightly more skill involved in the next goal as Maloney, who ran himself into the ground throughout, played through Brunton who scored with such ease that left many supporters wandering why he doesn’t score more often. Maloney then got the goal his performance deserved as he headed inform close range after some excellent centre forward play from Jefcoate. Brunton claimed another assist with an enchanting through ball that Wilson finished superbly, hammering across the ‘keeper into the far corner. With an unassailable lead Galacticos appeared to switch off as Park began to get more involved in the game. Stand in ‘keeper Smith, who was largely unchallenged first half, was called into action and pulled off a couple of good saves. After their 15 minute lull USL began to pick up again and it was more excellent work from Maloney that lead to their eleventh. A neat one-two with manager Wilson and ‘Ginge’ was unlucky to see his shot rebound off the post, but Iskra was close at hand to fire home. Iskra then got his hat-trick much to his manager’s delight; dispossessing a Stopsley midfielder, Iskra appeared to glide through the defensive challenges before sending the ‘keeper the wrong way with an outstanding finish. A pleasing moment to USL fans occurred with ten minutes to go as Mitchell made his return to the team following his pre-season hamstring injury. With a competitive season ahead, manager Wilson will hope to ease Mitchell back in gently to ensure the injury does not become recurrent. There was still time for one last moment of magic from the boys in purple as Jefcoate pulled off an audacious backheeled volley out to Wilson who nut-megged his defender, faked to shoot but laid the ball back to Jefcoate who hammered in his fourth of the afternoon and prompted chants of “it’s just like watching brazil” from the side lines. Full-time: USL Galacticos 13 - 0 Stopsley Park 2nd XI and a new big win record.

Following the game Wilson spoke of his pleasure at USL’s fantastic start to the season but warned about over confidence. “I could not have asked for a better start to the season, played three, won three and a goal difference of +27 but lets be honest there’s along way to go in this season and we are not going to turn teams over like this every week. I have managed to build a squad here that is capable of winning this league and pushing for silverware in the cup competitions but the only way we’ll achieve these goals is through hard work and determination. Jefcoate showed again today why he will be one of the top goal scorers in the league this season, Brunton put in another master-class in passing in midfield and not to forgetting Taylor, Pazik, Fay and Butler who have been solid all season at the back. But the player who pleased me today the most was Ginge (Maloney); he typified everything I want to see from my players this season, he ran himself into the ground and although he made a few mistakes with his final balls and finishing he kept working hard and came away with a goal, two assists and the man of the match award. Next week we are at home to Sandy in the county cup and they will be an unknown entity really so I will be preparing my players for a tough encounter and looking at results elsewhere today its clear to see that we will be looking at some closer fought games through October as we meet Slip End and Christians in Sport for the first times this season.”

After bagging four goals for the second time in as many games, Striker Ben Jefcoate told USL Web “I’m just pleased to be enjoying my football and I look forward to turning up each week. There’s a good bunch of lads here and we really believe we can win things this year. I just can’t believe I’ve scored so many headers recently!” Reports from the training ground indicate that Wilson has worked with Jefcoate to improve the striker’s finishing from set plays and the results seem to be paying dividends.

Next week USL begin their County Cup campaign with a home tie to Bedfordshire Football League side Sandy FC ‘A’. The north Bedfordshire team also won today, 3-2 at home to Kempston Athletic, and will be hoping to continue their winning form by condemning Galacticos to there first defeat of the season. All at USL hope that players will bring friends and family along to cheer the Luton team into the next round and fans are reminded that game has a kick off time of 2:30pm. (Home ground: Luton Road Rec, Kingsbury Avenue, Dunstable - near the Ewe and Lamb Pub).

• Man of the match - Chris Maloney
• Fair play winner - Jonathan Butler
• Scorers - Ben Jefcoate (4), Peter Wilson (4), Pavel Iskra (3), Matt Brunton, Chris Maloney
• Assists - Matt Brunton (7), Chris Maloney (2), Peter Wilson, Ben Jefcoate, Jonathon Butler, Pavel Iskra
• Cards - None
• Referee - Andy Ducat 90/100
• Attendance - 7
  

After last week’s impressive display Galacticos were determined to put in another strong performance to establish themselves as real league contenders, and they certainly didn’t disappoint. Both Crown and Galacticos had new faces compared to last seasons close affairs but USL’s new boys appeared to have gelled quicker than Crown’s young side.

Galacticos showed their intentions straight from the off; two minutes in Wilson rounded the ‘keeper only to drag his shot wide from an awkward angle. USL had wave after wave of attacks but took 16 minutes to eventually break the deadlock when the front two of Smith and Jefcoate combined for the latter to fire in the first. His and USL’s second closely followed before Smith got his own name on the scoresheet with USL’s third. Despite appearing to have found their shooting boots Galacticos had to wait another 20 minutes before their next goal. Brunton, instrumental in midfield throughout, ran onto a ball from Maloney and sublimely lifted the ball over the Sundon ‘keeper and into the net. With half time approaching captain Howe fired in from just outside the box to give USL a commanding 5-0 lead. Half-time: Crown Sundon 0-5 USL Galacticos

The second half started as the first half finished with two quick goals from USL. Player manager Wilson waltzed his way through the Sundon defence but saw his shot well saved as he controlled the rebound he was fouled from behind and captain Howe coolly converted the resulting penalty. A few minutes later and Jefcoate sealed his hat-trick with a neat finish from close range. With an unassailable lead secured Wilson rang the changes with Trinder, Simpson and Iskra all getting an opportunity to show the manager what they could do. USL took a while to adjust to the new shape but soon picked up as Brunton firstly set up Jefcoate for his fourth before slipping through Smith for his second. Last season’s player of the season, Iskra, staked his claim for a starting spot next week with an impressive performance capped with a neat finish on 79 minutes. Full-time: Crown Sundon 0-10 USL Galacticos

An understandably pleased Wilson spoke to USL Web after the game and was full of praise for his team. “Everyone worked their socks off today and that’s all I can ask for from the players. If you look at the amount of chances we created it should really have been 20 or 30 but I’l let players off a bit this week. Although I think its fair to say that Dan’s only chance of being top scorer is if we go bowling again! Crown should get stronger as the season continues but I felt we dominated today and I was impressed with how we managed to maintain the tempo for most of the game where previously we may have switched off and conceded. Brunton showed his quality throughout today and I was impressed by his temperament; he had far too much skill for the Crown players to handle and was caught with late challenges on numerous occasions but kept his head and let his football do the talking. All three subs played well when they came on and it’s encouraging to see we have a great strength in depth as we aim to challenge in all four competitions this season.”

Club co-founder (, secretary, linesman and physio) Shakayet Hussain was thrilled with the performance of his team and feels there is plenty of promise for the coming season, “We finally have a team that's gonna do very well. My first trophy will be worth everything!”

Next week USL Galacticos have their first home game of the season at their new ground of Luton Road Rec, off Kingsbury Avenue, Dunstable. The game kicks off at 2.30 against Stopsley Park 2nd XI, who will be looking for their first points of the season.

• Man of the match - Matt Brunton
• Fair play winner - Matt Brunton
• Scorers - Ben Jefcoate 4, Matt Brunton 1, Ricky Howe 2, Gavin Smith 2 and Pavel Iskra 1
• Assists - Matt Brunton (3), Peter Wilson (2), Ben Jefcoate (2), Gavin Smith, Chris Maloney, Crown Defender
• Cards - None
• Referee - Mark Benson 92/100
• Attendance - 7
  

On a wet and windy September afternoon Galacticos were finally able to get their season underway. Their opponents, Farley Boys, an unknown quantity who themselves were set for their debut game in the Luton District and South Bedfordshire Saturday League. Both teams started cautiously but began to build however the first 20 mins lacked clear cut chances, it was therefore no surprise that the opening goal came through a slice of luck. Brunton was proving to have too much skill for the Farley midfielders and was brought down just outside the box. Player Manager Peter Wilson stepped up and delivered an in-swinging ball which was caught in the wind, evaded everyone and nestled in the top corner.

Farley battled back and got their own slice of luck as a ball bobbling around in the USL box deflected off the Farley strikers leg and nestled in the bottom corner; 'keeper Fear left stranded. A Fear save kept things on level terms as he expertly turned over a close range effort. The game continued to flow forwards and backwards and a overlapping run from right back Taylor saw him pass his opposing full back only for a Farley defender to dive in and take him out from behind. Arguments that the player had won the ball were in vein as captain Howe stepped up and coolly slotted home for USL. Farley picked themselves up and began to push for a second equaliser Farley's number 16 was enjoying a great deal of success with his speed and slick footwork but he was often let down by his final ball. No such problem when he forced Farleys equaliser; picking the ball up at halfway he beat three players down the right before delivering a pacy ball into the six yard box where, under pressure from a Farley attacker, Kieran Fay could do nothing but watch the ball hit him and end up in his own net. Half-time: Farley Boys 2 - 2 USL Galacticos.

Wilson's half-time team talk appeared to have the desired effect as USL picked up their play in the second half. After creating a number of half chances, a well worked corner from Brunton to Smith saw the later fire the ball in at goal and it was Wilson again that managed to get a head onto it and direct it into the far corner. The delight was obvious amongst the USL players and they used this to up their game another level and were soon rewarded. Jefcoate, who had worked hard all afternoon, evaded the offside trap and went through on goal, his shot was well saved but Smith was on hand to tuck away the rebound. USL changed things around and Chris Maloney was brought on but the winger was off again within a minute as his first challenge resulted in him picking up a nasty nose bleed. Down to ten men USL continued to push and an electrifying run from Wilson down the right allowed him to square for Jefcoate to direct home at the back post and get the goal his performance deserved. There was still time for Smith to add his second of the day; a delightful 'round the corner' ball from Jefcoate put Smith through and the former Offley striker tucked it away expertly. Fortunately Maloney was able to return and Michael Trinder also got to come on for his debut and help USL hold out for a battling win. Full-time: Farley Boys 2 - 6 USL Galacticos.

Speaking after the game, manager Wilson told USL Web "I could not have asked for a better first game of the season. Farley Boys proved to be a decent team and will definitely be there or thereabouts come next April. Our first half performance was not as slick as I would have liked but we have to realise that we are going to have games where we have to battle as well as play our passing game. The score-line was a bit unfair on Farley who had battled well but missed their main central midfielder when he had to go off injured, he'd been central to the majority of their attacking moves and without him they failed to carve out any real chances once we were 4-2 up. However, one of the main reasons for that was the outstanding performance of Pazik at centre back - having brought him in mainly as a full back he has adapted superbly to being asked to play more centrally. I was also pleased that both our strikers are off the mark for the season; Smith took his two well and could have had a couple more, Jefcoate put in a tremendous amount of work today and although I know he got frustrated with not getting passed to at times it is often the work he does that allows others to play. Hopefully getting a goal and two assists will have cheered him up slightly! We will take both the positives and negatives from today's game and use them to be stronger next week - there is more to come from this team."

Before the game Wilson announced that Ricky Howe will captain USL Galacticos this season. The battling centre midfielder who joined midway through last season is looking forward to what he describes as 'a big season' for USL as he hopes to forge a devastating midfield partnership with Matt Brunton.

Galacticos' next challenge comes against Crown Sundon next Saturday at Leagrave Park. Crown were defeated 5-2 by AFC Slip End this weekend so will be hoping to record their first points of the season against USL's finest.

• Man of the match - Michael Pazik
• Fair play winner - Daniel Taylor
• Scorers - Gavin Smith 2, Peter Wilson 2, Ben Jefcoate and Ricky Howe
• Assists - Ben Jefcoate 2, Peter Wilson, Gavin Smith, Daniel Taylor, Matt Brunton
• Cards - None
• Referee - Alan Blackburn 85/100
• Attendance - 8
  

After Wednesday night's display of free flowing attacking football Galacticos were brought back to earth with a rather boring no-score draw. Due to work commitments and injuries, Wilson was unable to field a full strength side which comes as quite a worry with the season starting next Saturday. Brache also had quite an experimental line up on show as they prepare for the coming season. USL fans would have recongnised a familiar face in the shape of George Bembridge, last seasons' top goalscorer, who was in the Brache line-up.
In a rather scrappy first half Brache played the better football but were their passing build up often became their own downfall as the moves eventually broke down with no end product. Galacticos, on the other hand, were struggling to get their passing football going and resorted to a number of long balls and set pieces to create their best efforts. Brache should have done better from a couple of well positioned free-kicks and if Galacticos had been more accurate with some of their first time efforts then they may have been rewarded. The best chance of the half came from a neat set play by USL; Howe rose highest and seemed certain to score but for a reflex save by the Sparta 'keeper. With halft-time looming Wilson lost another player as Fay had to go off injured. Half-time Brache Sparta Reserves 0 v 0 USL Galacticos
The second half played out much the same as the first. Both teams tried to up their game sensing the opposition was there to be beaten but neither managed to break down a game where defences were coming out on top. A late challenge by the 'keeper on Jefcoate had USL questioning for a penalty but the referee failed to see anything wrong with the challenge and USL were forced into another sub as Jefcoate was unable to continue-fortunately for Galacticos the injury turned out to be bruised ribs and nothing worse. The late kick off seemed to have affected everyone as the game was played out relatively lethargically apart from a few half chances, late challenges and controversial refereeing decisions. Neither team would have been happy with the result but neither team can really complain as no-one deserved to win. Full-time Brache Sparta Reserves 0 v 0 USL Galacticos

Wilson declined to comment on the match straight away but sent USL Web the following. "When the game finished I was caught up in my emotions and did not want to say something I would later regret. On reflection a draw is not too bad a result. Brache provided stiffer opposition than many of the teams we have played in pre-season and the fact that we didn't lose is a positive. I was pleased with the way the defence played on Saturday, even though we played poorly as a team I was confident in our defenders and they got the clean sheet they deserved. Other positives included a debut for Nathan who looked promising when he came on; unfortunately I think he is off to university this year so his availability will be limited. With the season starting next week USL still have everything to look forward to and after Saturdays' performance I can't wait for the next game to put it right!"

USL Galacticos start the season with Farley Boys away at Stockwood Park, 2.30pm kick off, next Saturday 6th September.

• Man of the match - Michael Pazik
• Fair play winner - Ben Jefcoate
• Scorers - None
• Cards - None
• Referee - David Fields 81/100
• Attendance - 9
  

With a near full strength squad, Galacticos arrived at Vauxhall Rec for the first ever Sporting Shield determined to be the first USL team to have their name engraved on it. With the arrival of their new rain jackets, Galacticos really looked the part going into this battle with the Sunday team. Unfortunately the same could not be said of Rams who arrived rather last minute with a number of key players missing.

Galacticos got off to the best possible start as they took the lead after only a couple of minutes. The ball was worked to Wilson inside the box, having held the ball up well he skipped past the flat footed defender to fire the ball across the box for the on rushing Howe to head home. Despite dominating most of the play Galacticos failed to capitalise on their possession and missed a number of chances before player manager Wilson weighed in with a 15 minute hatrick to put the game out of reach. With Howe, Smith and Brunton playing through some delightful balls from midfield and captain Jefcoate working well to hold the ball up, Wilson was allowed too much space and made Rams pay. The first a one-on-one coolly slotted home, the second a straight forward tap in from 6 yards after 'keeper Ebanks had parried and the third a wonderful strike from the edge of the box curling into the left hand corner. The only downsides to an otherwise perfect first half were the recurrence of Mitchell's hamstring injury and the amount of wasted chances. B. Fay was also fortunate to not join Mitchell on the treatment table following a horrendous over the ball challenge from Walsh, thankfully the talented youngster was able to get up and carry on. Half-time USL Galacticos 4-0 USL Rams
Galacticos came out after the break determined to keep their grasp on the game as Rams began to apply more pressure. Unfortunately for Rams they were often let down by final balls and a lack of understanding between players. They were also coming up against a Galacticos back five that appears to be getting stronger with each game even with the players in it varying. Galacticos goalkeeper Fear put in a brave performance with badly bruised fingers and manager Wilson can be thankful that the defenders limited the amount of saves he was required to make. The stand out performance from defence came from Butler who was not beaten all game and added to his impressive defensive performance with a number of striding runs forward enabling Galacticos to move from defence to attack almost effortlessly. Matt Brunton, who worked tirelessly as also, brought about the fifth goal; a teasing run into the box past Rams' defence before he was clattered into by Zaman for a penalty. Howe stepped up and sent the keeper to add his second of the evening. With a comfortable lead Galacticos were able to start ringing the changes with Pazik, Maloney, Ali, Ashton and Royal all coming on to play a part. Two of the youngsters gave their push for a first team place no harm as they added to the goal tally. Chris Maloney managed to loose his marker from a set piece and as the ball rebounded out he was on hand to head home Galacticos sixth. Ali then added goals number seven and eight for the Saturday team; the first a corner that floated straight in before a neat finish when he was found unmarked at the back post. Rams pulled a consolation goal back in the dying minutes through a L. Ebanks penalty but on the night belonged to Wilson and his Saturday side. Full-time USL Galacticos 8-1 USL Rams

Next up for Galacticos are Brache Sparta Reserves on Saturday as their last preseason friendly. With the season starting next week Wilson has one last week to get things spot on to ensure they start well. Rams have slightly longer before their season begins and manager Haque will hope his team can improve vastly from the inept performance put in this evening.

• Man of the match - Johnny Butler
• Fair play winner - Brendan Fay
• Scorers - Peter Wilson (3), Ricky Howe (2), Fokrull Ali (2) and Chris Maloney
• Cards - Dean Ashton and Matt Brunton (Yellow)
• Referee - David Fields 82/100
• Attendance - 21
  

As the host team, Galacticos were under pressure to deliver today and prove to the rest of Luton that they are serious title contenders for the coming season. Manager Wilson’s job was not helped by a number of first team absentees leaving him with a squad of only 13.

Group Game 1: Galacticos first game came against USL’s Sunday team, Rams. Fielding nine men meant Rams were always going to be up against it and so it proved. Wilson partnered captain Jefcoate upfront and they grabbed a brace a piece. Some lack luster defending in midfield allowed Rams’ Junaid Afzal to fire home from 25 yards but this was only a consolation goal. A good win to start the tournament was offset by key defender Mitchell pulling up with a hamstring strain that ruled him out of the rest of the tournament.

USL Galacticos 4 - 1 USL Rams

Group Game 2: Galacticos second game came straight after the first and proved to be a much sterner test. In a hard fought contest USL were fortunate to come out with a win against a solid Stopsley Common team. The only goal of the game came from great play on the left from Jefcoate who used all his strength and speed to hold of the challenging defenders before crossing for Wilson, who’s finish back across goal was enough to deceive the ‘keeper and covering defenders. Wilson then had a great chance to wrap the game up when he was put through one-on –one but the ball would not come down for him and his attempted lob held up nicely in the wind for the keeper to make a comfortable save. In the USL goal Ashton then became the hero with a fantastic diving save to deny Stopsley an equaliser. Tempers began to raise as Stopsley became frustrated and young Maloney of USL ended up being punch in the face by one of Stopsley’s more senior players however this went unnoticed by the referee. This act of petulance showing that by playing neat passing football, USL are going to get the better of a lot of teams this season and will need to be prepared for opposing players resorting to dirty tactics to try and disrupt their play.

Stopsley Common 0 - 1 USL Galacticos

Group Game 3: Galacticos next game saw them up against One Nation and many familiar faces to the USL family; at least five of the One Nation squad had previously worn the USL purple with pride. With both teams having a good understanding of each others play a tight game was inevitable and with neither team able to capitalise on their chances the game ended with a rather unspectacular draw.

USL Galacticos 0 - 0 One Nation

Group Game 4: Taking the frustration of the missed opportunity against One Nation, Galacticos moved straight onto the other pitch to face Wheelwrights - Cue midfield master class from Matt Brunton. Galacticos number seven was at the centre of everything for the full twenty minutes of this game. With some delightful through balls Wilson was able to add his fourth and fifth goals of the tournament and a pinpoint corner met the on rushing Powell who volleyed home through the goalkeepers’ legs. In all honesty it should have been more as USL wasted a number of good opportunities but the result ensured they continued with their promising start to the tournament.

Wheelwrights 0 - 3 USL Galacticos

Group Game 5: As the stop start nature of tournament football began to take it toll, the next challenge came in the shape of Luton Leagrave who finished 2nd in Galacticos LDSB football league. Another tight game was only separated by a superb goal by Jefcoate. A Brunton corner was headed clear by a Leagrave defender only to fall to Jefcoate on the edge of the box, taking a touch to control the ball he then unleashed a vicious shot into the top right corner. Unfortunately for Jefcoate the touch to control the ball was with his face and he had to leave the pitch as his nose started streaming blood. USL stayed strong and held on for their fourth win of the day and guaranteed place in the semi-finals.

USL Galacticos 1 - 0 Luton Leagrave

Group Game 6: Coming into the last game of the group stage Wilson knew his team only required a draw to finish top of the league, however this was never going to be straight forward against a strong Arndale team who needed victory themselves to top the league. Both defences were proving difficult to break down but Arndale drew first blood; a ball into the near post and Declan McConville beat his marker to flick a header in at the near post. For the first time in the day USL found themselves losing and with games only lasting 20 minutes they knew they had to react quickly if they were to earn the precious point they required. Everyone upped their game and pushed on, riding their luck at times, and were rewarded when another Brunton corner was met by Powell who prodded home to make it 1-1. Right at the death Galacticos could even have stolen all three points had it not been for some fantastic last ditch defending from Arndale. The result proved enough for Galacticos who could now look forward to a semi-final against Luton Leagrave.

Luton Arndale 1 - 1 USL Galacticos

Semi-Final: Having already fought out a battling 1-0 win over Leagrave in the group stage Galacticos knew they would be in for a tough game but having finished top of the group stage table they felt confident they could push on and reach the final. Galacticos had the majority of possession but failed to make it count. The back four of Taylor, Powell, Fay and Simpson continued to look solid and Howe and Brunton dominated much of the midfield play feeding the ball for the USL forwards. The strain of over 120 minutes of on/off football was beginning to take its toll on both sets of players but even so Galacticos should have done better in the final third. Player manager Wilson was guilty of missing three great chances and as is often the case in football he was made to pay for it when Leagrave grabbed the only goal of the game. The ball fell to Legrave’s prolific striker Elms who smashed the ball home from out side the box leaving the Ashton with no chance. USL pushed for an equaliser but it was not to be.

USL Galacticos 0 - 1 Luton Leagrave

On reflection Galacticos can be proud of their performances today as they stepped up to the challenge and proved to themselves and the manager that they can be a strong team this season. They created numerous chances and as the season draws closer they should become more clinical as their true match fitness arrives. They also showed they can pull together and battle against the more physical teams; special credit to the younger lads in the squad who could still be playing youth football but have stepped up to the challenge of mens football. Considering key players such as Fear, Butler, Ramos, Iskra and Smith were absent today and Miah, Ali and Santana were representing other teams the squad looks to have real strength in depth. The only worry for Wilson coming from the tournament is the injury to Mitchell who will now be battling to be fit for the start of the season in only a few weeks time.

• Tournament Stats
• Scorers: Peter Wilson (5), Ben Jefcoate (3) Adam Powell (2)
• Assists: Matt Brunton (4), Chris Maloney (2), Ben Jefcoate (2), Brendan Fay, Ricky Howe
• Cards: None
• USL Man of the Tournament: Adam Powell
• USL Fair Play Award: Ben Jefcoate
  

After this 9-1 drubbing Slip End were left ruing the decision to accept this last minute friendly. With the squad they have available for next season many expect them to be challenging for the title but with a weakened eleven on show today this could well prove to be the worst defeat they suffer. Galacticos matched their greatest ever winning margin and were very thankful to Slip End for managing to get a team together at such short notice. Galacticos’ proposed opposition, Wing FC, informed USL late Friday evening that they could not field a team; leaving USL with a pitch and referee already booked but no-one to play. Fortunately Manager Wilson was able to call in a favour as Slip End accepted a friendly proposal and pulled together a mixture of first team regulars and some friends to make up the numbers. Galacticos, on the other hand, were only missing a few main players and put out their strongest squad of preseason to date.

USL made the better start to the game and were rewarded with an early goal; Maloney picking out Wilson unmarked at the back post, who headed home from 6 yards. USL continued to push and a delightful chipped through ball from Wilson put in Jefcoate who was brought down as he rounded the last defender. Captain for the day, Jefcoate picked himself up and coolly slotted home from the penalty spot. Slip End began to find their feet and started knocking the ball around but were caught on the counter as Jefcoate raced onto a defensive clearance and kept his composure as he placed the ball past the onrushing keeper. USL’s fourth came soon after; taking down a cross field ball, Wilson beat two defenders before shooting from just outside the area, the ball traveled through a group of players leaving the ‘keeper with little chance as the ball curled inside the near post. Slip End managed to pull one back when Wright broke through the offside trap and slotted past Fear but the final goal of the first half went to Galacticos. Howe was found in space on the edge of the box and rifled home to give USL back their four goal lead. Half-time: USL Galacticos 5 v 1 AFC Slip End XI

The healthy lead allowed Galacticos to experiment with different systems and players. Despite being asked to change between formations of 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 4-5-1 and 3-4-2 they continued to show some impressive play. Captain Jefcoate completed his hat-trick to make it 6-1 when he coolly rounded the stranded ‘keeper to tap into an empty net. Ramos made it seven; dispossessing a Slip End midfielder before lobbing the ‘keeper from 20 yards. Howe converted his second and USL’s second penalty of the afternoon to make it 8-1. Smith, who unfortunately Galacticos will be without for the next couple of weeks of preseason, made sure he said goodbye in style with a neat finish following some determined build up play from Ashton. Full-time: USL Galacticos 9 v 1 AFC Slip End XI

Speaking after the game manager Wilson was pleased with the result and performance but warned against complacency. “At times today some of the football was lovely to watch, I thought Matt and Ricky bossed it today in centre midfield with the support they got from the back four and wingers. We seemed a new team today compared to last week. Make no mistake, AFC Slip End will be a strong team this season - you could see the quality in a number of their players but its always going to be difficult when you throw a team together last minute and I’m very grateful to Wayne and his players for providing us with a game. Next week we have the slightly different challenge of a number of shorter games but hopefully we will continue to play in the same way as today - if any of the players start thinking we are going to walk it this season just because we can win a few friendlies then they’re setting us all up for a downfall. I’m confident I have a squad here that can compete on all fronts this season but success will only come if we can use that quality as a team.”

Next week Galacticos take part in the USL Open, USL’s own 11-a-side tournament, taking place at Wigmore Valley Park. With a number of successful Luton teams such as Stopsley Common and Luton Arndale also competing, Wilson’s men will have another opportunity to test their progression.

• USL Man of the match - Chris Maloney
• USL Fair player - Matt Brunton
• Scorers - Ben Jefcoate 3, Ricky Howe 2, Peter Wilson 2, Renan Ramos and Gavin Smith
• Assists: Peter Wilson (2), Gavin Smith, Dean Ashton, Matt Brunton, Chris Maloney, Ben Jefcoate, Brendan Fay, Renan Ramos
• Cards - None
• Referee - David Fields 88/100
• Attendance - 5

Following on from last weeks poor performance against L.A.R, USL again under performed and left manager Wilson with a lot to think about. Despite missing first choice goalkeeper Fear, who was in goal for Lions, USL fielded a strong team. Ricky Howe in his first game returning from injury took the captaincy and teamed up in midfield with Brunton to form a partnership that USL hope will propel them to a successful 08/09 campaign. For Lions this was their first pre-season game but you could not tell as they used their pace all over the pitch to snuff out USL attacks and break on the counter. USL were knocking the ball around nicely at times but lacked composure with many clearances and final balls leaving the attackers with little to work from. A goal-line clearance from Taylor kept the scores at 0-0 but it was not long before Lions took the lead; Jamie Howe, playing in goal in the absence of Fear, pulled off a magnificent save diving low to his right to save a header, unfortunately he could do nothing as the ball fell to a Lions attacker who smashed the ball into the roof of the net at the second attempt. Galacticos pushed to force an equaliser but a straight forward long ball and a defensive mix up allowed Lions in to make it two. Unfortunately for Lions their left midfielder had to go off injured so in good spirit USL allowed Chris Maloney to play the remainder of the game for the Dunstable team. Half-time: Lions 2-0 USL.

USL came out all guns blazing after half time and had soon pulled a goal back; forward Smith held the ball up superbly before threading through captain Howe who’s ball across the box was finished at the back post by Shamin Ali. Galacticos continued to push and could have drawn level had it not been for two fantastic saves by Lions ‘keeper Fear; firstly getting a foot to a Jefcoate shot before saving bravely at the feet of Smith. This invigorated Lions again who pushed on and took advantage of some lack-luster team defending to take a 4-1 lead. Wilson tried to reenergise his team by coming on himself but when he created a lovely chance for himself he failed where those before him had also failed, hitting the ball straight at Fear. USL did manage to pull one more goal back; following a deliberate handball on the edge of the box, Brunton swung the ball in to the back post where Smith was arriving to power a head against the bar which rebounded onto the ‘keeper and back into the net.. Full-time: Lions 4-2USL.

Following the first defeat of their pre-season campaign, manager Wilson was less concerned about the performance and more concerned about the attitude of some of the players. “A lot of players underperformed today, some were returning from injuries, others I know had been out on a heavy one the night before whilst others seemed to just not really get fired up enough for the game. When things don’t quite go to plan, players will get frustrated with one another but at the end of the day the blame should rest with me. I would prefer frustrated players to voice their concerns to me and focus their communication with their team mates on encouragement and constructive feedback.”

“After a loss you just want the next game to come as soon as possible to get winning again. We will have a chat at training on Thursday and work on a few things and hopefully we can get a friendly arrange for next week and put things back on track”.

• USL Man of the match - Matt brunton
• USL Fair player - Chris Maloney
• Scorers - Shamim Ali, O.G.
• Cards - None
• Referee - Mark Benson 90/100
• Attendance - 7

Saturday’s game provided a stark warning to USL’s players that no team is to be underestimated. Following Rovers’ unsuccessful debut season in the Barket Super League, many Galacticos players were expecting an easy game with goals hitting double figures. This lack of respect and laid-back approach resulted in a far closer game than many expected.

With key players such as Brunton, Jefcoate and Howe missing USL were able to experiment with different partnerships and give some players their first game of pre-season. Playing in a less familiar role, Harris made a strong impression on the game with a battling central midfield performance in the first half. With Powell sitting in front of the defence, USL coped well with Rovers’ attacking play but were guilty of a lack of composure in their own attacking play. Credit must also go to the restructured Rovers team - an injection of pace at the back saw many last ditch tackles coming in from their centre back and left back where previously teams would have been left free to beat the ‘keeper. The Rovers defence also kept them in the game with three goal line finishes in the first half. However USL did go into the break with a one goal lead thanks to a clinical finish from left winger Iskra on 20 mins. Half-time: USL 1 v 0 L.A.R

The second half saw changes for both teams and Galacticos began to put the game out of reach with two goals from Smith and one from Wilson. USL were denied a blatant penalty when Chris Maloney was fouled in the box and Rob Newman was unfortunate not to get his name on the score sheet; having two goals ruled out for offside. Full-time: USL 4 v 0 L.A.R

The 4 -0 win continued Galacticos winning start to pre-season but provided manager Wilson with much to think about if USL wish to truly challenge for silverware this season. “At the end of the day we got the win and it could have been by more had we been more decisive with runs, passes and shots in the final third. Some of the attitude before the game today disappointed me as some players believed the game was already won - no team should be underestimated and I will be enforcing that over the coming weeks as we continue pre-season training.” Wilson though had encouraging words for Rovers fans, “having played against Rovers last season they have made some improvement, when they kept their shape they could be quite resilient and with pace at the back you can get away with a few mistakes. Hopefully they will continue to build and I wish them well for the coming season”.

Disappointing news for USL followers is that the star man of the past few weeks, Rob Newman, has announced he cannot commit to Galacticos. Youngster Newman already plays Saturday and Sunday mornings and Sunday afternoons and following discussions with manager Wilson it was felt that adding further games would not be beneficial for the player. Hopefully Newman will stay in contact with USL and offer his services when they’re available throughout the season.

• USL Man of the match - Rob Newman
• USL Fair player - Gavin Smith
• Scorers - Gavin Smith 2, Peter Wilson and Paul Iskra
• Cards - None
• Referee - David Fields 86/100
• Attendance - 15

First and foremost thanks must go to Stopsley Park for providing USL opposition at short notice after USL’s planned opposition dropped out. Further thanks go to their official who refereed the match when the proposed referee became unavailable.

USL went into their first official pre-season friendly with a host of first choice players unavailable; however this allowed a number of trialists and new signings to play their first games for the club. The first half started cagily as both teams tried to get to grip with the wind and figure out how best to play against the opposition. Playing into the wind, Galacticos were at their most effective when passing the ball around on the floor and a good phase of interplay ended in Smith squaring the ball across the area for Harris to steal in at the back post and slot past the ‘keeper. Galacticos created a number of chances down either flank but too often lacked decisiveness or accuracy with the final ball and long balls over the top were dealt with comfortably by the Stopsley defence. At the other end Stopsley were getting some success with their strong centre forward winning headers or for their supporting players to run onto. Unfortunately for them the wind did not help as many balls ended up running to far through. Park’s best chance of the half came when a weak kick by USL’s stand in ‘keeper fell straight to a Stopsley forward who picked his spot and appear to have the goalie beaten only for Ashton to pull of a magnificent save that Iker Casillas would have been proud of. Stopsley’s only other real chance in the half saw them lob the keeper only for the ball to rebound of the upright and cleared by the recovering USL defenders. Half-time: USL Galacticos 1 - 0 Stopsley Park.

Park came out fighting second half and appeared to be having the better of the opening exchanges however they failed to capitalise on it and found themselves 2-0 down to a fluke goal from USL’s player manager Wilson. Despite attempting to head a cross-field ball from Brunton down to the onrushing Newman he managed to send it goalwards; an awkward bounce and some unfortunate goalkeeping resulted in the ball bouncing into the net. Park never seemed to recover from this and USL pushed on with promising new signing Rob Newman constantly pushing through from midfield and interchanging nicely with Smith, Brunton and Iskra. At the back Powell was winning everything in the air and Butler always appeared on hand when required, providing a solid pairing as USL experimented with different fullbacks. As Stopsley began to tire and change things about USL pushed on and extended their lead further. First a sweet strike from Iskra made it 3-0 then a penalty from Smith and a brilliant individual goal from star man Newman sealed a convincing victory. Full-time: USL Galacticos 5 v 0 Stopsley Park.

Speaking after the game Manager Wilson was understandably pleased with the results but felt there was plenty to learn from the game. “It is nice to get pre-season started with win, especially against a strong Stopsley team. There were a few players out there today who will need to work hard over the coming weeks to get their fitness levels up but generally speaking everyone tried to play as I asked them to”. Speaking about the man-of-the match performance of Newman, Wilson commented “He impressed me today, especially being asked to play slightly out of position. He played with great confidence and strength especially for someone of such a young age. Hopefully he will be a strong signing for us, especially with the news that Ricky Howe is still struggling with his knee injury and it appears that potential signing Dave Hill appears to be finding it hard to get out of Saturday working.”

“We appear to be building a good squad for next season with a number of strong players capable of filling each position; hopefully the competition for places will push everyone’s game up a level. I feel I have the squad I need for next season but obviously if someone turns up who is good enough and fits in with USL’s way of thinking then the door is always open”.

USL’s pre-season training takes place on the astro at Vauxhall Recreation Club on Thursday nights from 7.30. Anyone interested in playing next season can email utdspl@hotmail.com to obtain further contact details.

• USL Man of the match - Rob Newman
• USL Fair player - Matt Brunton
• Scorers - Steve Harris, Peter Wilson, Paul Iskra, Gavin Smith and Rob Newman
• Cards - None
• Referee - Stopsley Official 86/100
• Attendance - 17