• USL Man of the match - Dean Ashton
• USL Fair player - Peter Wilson
• Scorers - Dean Ashton 2, Will Gibb 2, Yasir Rashid, Daniel Owens, David Mitchell and Peter Wilson
• Cards - None
• Referee - Liam Murphy 8/10

CHILDS OUT FOR 3 WEEKS March 20th 2007

Winger James Childs has been ruled out for three weeks due to a dislocated shoulder. The injury was picked up during the match against Luton Warriors back in Feb 25th. He may need surgery in the next few days, depending if the situation worsens.

Photo - James Childs

THE LIONS, THE WIND AND THE 3 POINTS March 18th 2007

Dunstable Lions 2 United Sporting Luton 3

A GAME OF TWO HALVES March 11th 2007

United Sporting Luton 2 Purley Celtic 2

Celtic dominated the first half and deservedly took a 2-0 lead going into half time. USL had the earlier of the chances with Daniel Owens going the closest, narrowly missing the target in front of goal. Owens worked hard throughout the match but was unlucky on several occasions not to get on the scoresheet. Steve Blackhurst is every bit confident that his little gem will blossom as he gets older and wiser. Shamim Ali was once again inspirational down the right flank and played out of his skin. Azad Ali was delighted with the 17 year olds performance. He told USL Web "Shamim was told to make runs up the right and provide crosses for the two forwards. Simple as that. He did exactly what Steve and I asked for and that makes any manager proud." Captain Peter Wilson as always works hard to getting his men playing good football but today the midfielder reminded Celtic the importance of fair play. Club Secretary Shakayet Hussain told USL Web" Whether Peter realised it or not, he done a tremendous job in protesting as well as airing his views in such a way that prevented certain Celtic players from worsening the situation. Our Captain was calm, collective and affirmative in his communication. He defended his players throughout the game from few of the Celtic lads who were diabolical. One player actually challenged Mohbubh Hussain for a punch up. It was disgraceful and I shall be reporting it to the League Secretary."

The second half was dominated by USL and were unlucky not to have grabbed all three points. Steve Blackhurst made a superb tactical decision that saw Junaid Afzal drop to central defense and Kamran Tahir taking up his regular role in central midfield. Both players were impressive and brought a huge wave of self esteem back in the team. With Abdul Aziz off ill, the gloves were given to striker Ishtiaq Shahid who done a pretty good job as emergency cover. Mohbub Hussain scored his first goal of the season and Peter Wilson smashed the ball in to the net to level the match 2-2. Next week, USL are away to Dunstable Lions, who are equal to USL in almost every statistic. It should be a great match.

USL DESTROY HAWTHORN March 4th 2007

Hawthorn Athletic 1 United Sporting Luton 8

USL carried on from where they left off last week with another emphatic win. This time against Hawthorn Athletic, who only a fortnight ago lost 13-0 to USL in their away match. Today's match saw a far better Hawthorn outfit but USL were too strong for them to outplay. Yasir Rashid, Peter Wilson, Daniel Owens and Ishtiaq Shahid all scored two goals each. Shamim Ali may not have gotten in the scoresheet but the right midfielder was awesome throughout the 90 minutes. The 17 year old made several runs zigzagging past the Hawthorn defence and provided quality crosses. The muddy pitch made it hard for USL to play a passing game but in hindsight done ever so well to maintain most of the possession. Once again, the USL defence enjoyed another fine performance. Duhaj Uddin, David Mitchell, Mujahid Zaman and Mohbub Hussain have confirmed their status as the League's best defence as of now. Next week USL welcome Purley celtic to the Peter Newton Ground and a good win over the Marsh Farm team will go along way in enhancing their chances of finishing in the top three.

PASQUE VISIT March 3rd 2007

USL visited Pasque Hospice today and was given a tour by Head Fundraiser Mark Relf. Pasque is USL's offical charity organisation and for the next 3 months will be raising much needed money. Pasque is an independent organisation which has 20% government financial help with 80% coming from private donations. Visiting Pasque were Secretary Shakayet Hussain, Assistant Manager Azad Ali, USL Charities Officer Duhaj uddin and defender David Mitchell. Mitchell was good enough to donate ten pounds during the visit.

 

USL DESTROY WARRIORS February 25th 2007

Luton Warriors 1 United Sporting Luton 7

A superb display from a USL team out to prove a lot of critics wrong. Playing in the traditional 4-4-2 system they devastated a Warriors side high in confidence. Yasir Rashid played some of his best football to date and grabbed his eighth hat-trick of the season. Fellow striker Daniel Owens scored his second in two games and showed supporters just why he is called 'Speedy feet'. His galloping runs and sharp turns created mayhem for the Warriors defence. Owens's display was his best for USL and Manager Steve Blackhurst was first to praise the youngster. Single goals from Kamran Tahir, Peter Wilson and Will Gibb will send a clear message to the rest of the league. On their day USL can be very dangerous and highly punishable.

Photo - Yasir Rashid

The game would've been called off due to a water logged pitch but USL captain Peter Wilson wasn't having any of it. Along with fellow team mates, Wilson grabbed buckets and a broomstick to make the pitch playable. What was most annoying was the manner in which the home side conducted themselves. Warriors came to the game 20 minutes late and took a lengthy spell in putting up the nets. If it weren't for USL players lending assistance, the match would've been 45 minutes overdue.

FIRST USL CALENDARS OUT NOW February 18th 2007

It's around 2 months late but the 2007 USL calendar is out now. Around 10 000 have been printed and will be hand delivered throughout Luton. The scheme is part of the Promotion Team's aim to make the club into a household name by the turn of the next decade. USL have set new standards off the field and as a result have received the biggest sponsorship deal in the League's history as well as being the first amateur club to sponsor a league. Plans to offer five hundred pounds to next year's league winners are already under consultation. The incentive will hopefully attract superiors teams from within the Borough of Luton playing in the league. USL Web will keep you posted on further developments regarding this story.

WARRIORS MATCH OFF February 10th 2007

This Sunday's home tie against the Luton Warriors has been cancelled due to recent poor weather. The match will now be re-scheduled for another date.

WILSON BACKS MANAGER February 9th 2007

Photo - Steve Blackhurst

USL Captain Peter Wilson stands by his manager's decision in playing the 4-5-1 formation. He told USL Web "There is nothing wrong with Steve's formation. It's just that most of the players don't know how to play with the system." His opinion is shared by many in the USL dressing room. Majority of whom firmly believe that if the turn out is same each week, than players will grasp playing in the formation. Whether or not USL stick to the traditional 4-4-2 or return to the 4-5-1 is something we will know in the next match.

HISTORICAL RECORD WIN February 8th 2007

United Sporting Luton 13 Hawthorn Athletic 0

Hawthorn may have fielded just nine but had a eight men wall for 80 minutes of the game. Playing in the traditional 4-4-2 formation USL dominated the whole match and was only troubled on the odd occasion. Peter Wilson began the thrashing with a well taken volley that blasted past the keeper and the midfielder went on to grab his third hat-trick of the season. The two central defenders, Mujahid Zaman and David Mitchell played exceptionally well and scored a goal each, their first of the season. But the most important goal came from new signing Daniel Owens who scored his first for USL. He neatly collected the ball from midfield, thrusted himself past the on looking defence and calmly lobbed the keeper. Against Marston last week, he was unlucky not to score but today's goal should boost the youngsters confidence in becoming a regular predator. Other notable performances came from Shamim Ali who provided a string of measured crosses from the right, Ishtiaq Shahid coming on with 25 minutes left to score the fastest hat-trick so far this season and new keeper Abdul Aziz, who made several breath taking saves. All in all, manager Steve Blackhurst who was absent due to a family gathering, will be delighted with the way his team performed today.

SHOCK CUP EXIT January 28th 2007

United Sporting Luton 1 Marston Reds 3

Photo - USL's Daniel Owens on the attack

Steve Blackhurst's 4-5-1 formation is clearly not working as USL endured their fourth defeat in a row and an exit from the Centenary Cup. They weren't outplayed but rather found themselves out of position on many occasions. At times the team shape was non existent and a lot of hard work was placed on grabbing the ball of the feet of Marston. Once again Shamim Ali was on the bench along with new signing Daniel Owens. USL supporter Humayuen Bari told USL Web "It is surprising that such an exceptional player (Shamim) is left on the bench. He is far better than most of the players on the field and today when he came on, the game livened up. We need speedy players on the wings as well as up front. Owens proved that he should have been playing from the beginning because after he came on, the Marston defence was in shambles." Dean Ashton and David Mitchell were once again in the thick of the action. The defensive duo produced their level best in a game that saw many simply throwing in the towel. There was no usage of the wingers and it wasn't too long before Marston worked out USL's formation and had a permanent man on striker Yasir Rashid. Just why USL left it so late in eradicating the 4-5-1 formation will go along way into asking why they lost.

MARS ATTACKS January 24th 2007

This Sunday USL square up to Marston Reds in the Bedfordshire Centenary Cup quarter final at the Peter Newton Ground. The Reds play in the Bedford and District Fifth Division and have so far won 3 matches out of eight. In the last round they won 3-2 against a weak AC Cadoza side that had half the team missing. Marston's top scorer is Marcus Cuffy who scored 18 goals so far this season and is a possible threat up front. Overall, they have scored 21 goal, leaked 25 and have already lost 6-2 to Gloucester Arms, whom USL defeated 7-3 in the third round of the cup in Bedford. USL Web prediction USL 4 Marston Reds 1.

THIRD DEFEAT IN A ROW January 21st 2007

Purley Celtic 2 United Sporting Luton 1

Photo - Purley Celtic v USL

Just what Steve Blackhurst has to do in order to get USL back to winning ways remain mind puzzling. It is now three defeats in a row for the men in purple and unless they find form quickly, the bleak run will long continue. With the absence of captain Peter Wilson, the midfield appeared dormant and motionless at times. Junaid Afzal did his best to stamp some authority but Celtic came in with tackles that should have seen up to three red cards popping out of referee Mick Stokes pocket. With cuts and bruises, Afzal came limping off with a quarter of an hour to go. The midfielder found himself in a constant onslaught of highly dangerous tackles, yet the German Stallion kept his calm and prevented himself from retaliating. Overall, the best team won and the scoreline could well have been much higher if it weren't for Duhaj Uddin's regular blocks and David Mitchell's timely clearances. They were never under any serious pressure and calmly cleared the ball away from danger on more than one occasion.

Photo - David Mitchell and Duhaj Uddin

Celtic's Mo Kabir was on top form as he played a crucial role in setting up and receiving key passes which led to some serious counter attacking play by the home side. Thomas gave Celtic the lead with a hard hit low shot which flew passed reserve keeper Abdul Aziz. USL equalised through a Yasir Rashid penalty and with ten minutes to go, Mo Kabir crouched up to score the winning goal. Celtic's win is their fifth in a row and look good in finishing in the top four. As for USL, next week's Centenary Cup quarter final match against Marston Reds could restart their season or tarnish it.

OWENS COMPLETES FIRST TRAINING SESSION January 15th 2007

New signing Daniel Owens completed his first training session today and lived up to his reputation as 'speedy feet'. Throughout the 120 minutes Owens showed just why he is so dangerous in counter attacking play. Defender Duhaj Uddin welcomed Owens decision to sign for USL and stated that the club will forget the last two games and look to the future on a positive note. Club Secretary Shakayet Hussain told USL Web "We have a player who can play both on the left of midfield and up front as well. I was very much impressed with his speedy movements with the ball and at times it was hard to predict just which way he will go. I am looking forward to seeing him play against Purley Celtic this coming Sunday."

COMMONERS DO THE TREBLE OVER USL January 14th 2007

Stopsley Common 5 United Sporting Luton 2

Photo - Stopsley Common v USL

Stopsley Common have done the treble over USL in impressive style. The Trapp brothers played a major role in inspiring their team into capturing their eighth win of the season and leap frog one place to second place. In hindsight, Stopsley were by far the better team and deservedly took all three points. Apart from the own goal, James Trapp, Matthew Trapp, Scott Ford and James Collins scored a goal each and literally killed off the game. For USL, it's back to the drawing board and a search for solutions to relight their declining season.

Photo - James and Matthew Trapp

Manager Steve Blackhurst had all but four players missing and will give serious thought in bringing new faces before the deadline. New signing Daniel Owens wasn't signed up in time for today's fixture but hopefully will play against Purley Celtic next week. Peter Wilson scored both USL goals and along with James Childs shall not be available for next week's vital clash. Wilson who appeared in every minute so far for his club will be greatly missed and Blackhurst is well aware the midfield will go through 90 minutes without his influential captain.

AVOIDING THE TRAPPS January 12th 2007

Stopsley Common will once again try to prove that they are USL's bogey team. Just when things appear to go USL's way, the Commoners arrive to ruin the party. "Enough is enough. We are going out this Sunday to prove something to ourselves. We are good enough to beat anyone on our day. We were all left disappointed after the Melson game but our spirit is high and we know how to bounce back and we will". Stated Suna Miah. If Miah's words are felt by the rest of his colleagues, than USL have a very good chance to topple Stopsley. However, if they go into the game without any clear objective or determination to do well, the Trapp brothers will surely punish them. With the addition of ex-Rams hitman Daniel Owens into the squad, Steve Blackhurst will know for sure if his team is worthy of the title. USL Web prediction: Stopsley Common 2 USL 2

OWENS WILL SIGN FOR USL January 11th 2007

After receiving permission from Ramblers Eleven, USL Secretary Shakayet Hussain spoke to Daniel Owens today with regards to signing for the club. The Rams hitman scored an impressive 18 goals in under a dozen matches and even scored a hat-trick past USL back in early December. Hussain told USL Web "Last week's match against Melson signalled that options up front was thin. That is why we made an approach for the Rams star and so far I am delighted with Owens's desire to play for us. I am hoping to get all paperwork wrapped up before the Stopsley game on Sunday."

Photo - Daniel Owens

MELSON WHIP UNDERSTRENGTH USL January 7th 2007

Melson Arms 4 United Sporting Luton 1

Photo - Abdel Razak down injured

For what it's worth, USL's weak line up were punished by a full strength Melson team who on this performance look good to finish in the top three. Man of the match Andre Samson was superb as he helped Melson maintain composure and balance in the midfield. USL's man of the match Dean Ashton had to be extra cautious as he blocked several Melson counter attacks, something they are renowned for in displaying. At times only Ashton's voice could be heard on the pitch as the 22 year old was overcome with passion. Before the match he emphasised to team mates the importance of grabbing all 3 points and that a defeat will make it harder to stay in the title race. Several key USL players were out of the game and notably Samuel Shinkaiye's absence led to James Childs putting on the keeper gloves. A lot was asked from the left midfielder but in hindsight Childs did a good job in keeping the scoreline low. Suna Miah and Ishtiaq Shahid started the match in midfield as Kamran Tahir and Junaid Afzal were absent. Afzal's stallion-like runs with the ball were missed as well as Tahir's vision to find the attacking line. In fairness, the muddy pitch prevented USL from playing the passing game which they are so good at. Instead it was a scrappy affair with dangerous tackles coming in from all angles. Referee Declan McCabe was busy blowing the whistle and constantly warning players for dangerous tackles. Abdel Razak had to be taken off after receiving a knock in his right foot, whilst Melson's Jamie Jochery was carried off to hospital in an ambulance after a horrific leg injury. Saliem McClennan (2) and Michael McDonald scored for Melson with an own goal from Duhaj Uddin to cap it off. For USL Yasir Rashid grabbed his 33rd goal of the season with a header. Next week it's Stopsley Common at the Luton Regional and Manager Steve Blackhurst will be hoping that a better turnout will offer him better options. The news of Mujahid Zaman coming back to first team duties should raise USL's confidence against the Commoners.

CHRISTMAS PARTY AT TOFF'S PLACE December 18th 2006

USL held it's Christmas party at Toff's place on Wellington Street today. Up to 27 club officials and supporters attended the party. Club Secretary Shakayet Hussain told USL Web "It was a great night out for all involved with the club. The food was superb and the atmosphere loved by all who attended. Our sponsors gave each player an alarm clock as a Christmas present and I am sure they will become useful to a few of the lads". The evening ended with a pub style quiz and partying till the early hours at the Liquid night club.

Photo - The winning quiz team

BIG WIN SATISFIES BLACKHURST December 17th 2006

United Sporting Luton 8 Somerset Tavern 3

Photo - Somerset on the attack

With the inclusion of new players from Borough Old Boys, Somerset Tavern are still a struggling team. The opening ten minutes saw new look Tavern dominating much of the play. Within 30 seconds from the start they were a goal ahead, much to the disappointment of keeper Ben Swiercz who in all fairness played with a shoulder injury. Up to six first team players were out from today's fixture. Some are out with serious injuries and others having early Christmas celebrations. In the end a very weak USL team found themselves two nil down and against the run of play. With top striker Yasir Rashid away in Germany, it was up to the rest to prove Steve blackhurst that they too can score. Abdel Razak and Peter Wilson held the ball well and fed Suna Miah to grab his second goal of the season. Miah ran down the left flank and calmly lobbed the ball over the keeper. The Taverners had their moments and a mix up in defence allowed them to fire in their third. If it weren't for the shoulder injury, Swiercz would've easily cleared the ball and with no one available as replacement, the brave 22 year old continued in pain throughout the whole match. In the second half and with the sun behind them, USL were enjoying every moment of play. The midfield was solid and had more possession than everyone else on the pitch. As such all of them found the back of the net. A hatrick from Peter Wilson, a double from Razak and single goals from Junaid Afzal and Shamim Ali destroyed the Taverners. What's more, the men in orange and black were lacking the penetration and creativity in the final third to split the USL defence. Mitchell and Uddin were at the top of their game and broke down the majority of their attacks. The visitors were under pressure to produce a positive result following last week's 9-5 hammering from Luton Leagrave but were growing increasingly frustrated as the game wore on. If drastic improvements are not made soon, they can find themselves getting destroyed every week. USL however, go into the Christmas break with the season still to play for. By winning their games in hand, they will top the league by three points with a huge goal difference. The double is still a possibility after USL overcame Leagrave Wanderers to go through to the quarter finals of the Centenary Cup. They will be at home to Bedford team Marston Reds at the end of January. If USL are to win any silverware this season, than players must play for the team and not aim for personal glory. With the Melson game three weeks away, the injury list should become thin and provide Steve Blackhurst with a wider choice for selection.

ISLAM LEAVES FOR FC MOAT December 16th 2006

The last remaining player from the first ever USL team has today confirmed that he shall be finishing the season with FC Moat who are in the North Home Counties Premier Division. Tajul Islam returned from an eight month ankle injury a fortnight ago and Steve Blackhurst was planning to slowly get the midfielder playing again. Islam however feels that the chance to play in the NHC Premier is too good to turn down. USL Secretary Shakayet Hussain told USL Web that he was deeply upset and has offered the player the chance to return. Meanwhile, there is speculation that Ramblers hotshot Daniel Owens may consider a move to USL. Owens scored a hatrick against USL a fortnight ago and manages 3 goals per game.

Photo - Islam departs and Owens may arrive

NEW LOOK SOMERSET December 15th 2006

Only five players remain in a Somerset team that sacked the rest for poor attendance and failing to pay subs on time. The team was heading for ruin only to be saved by players from the Borough Old Boys. Up to around twenty fresh new legs will hopefully lead the Taverners into finishing the season. Last week the new look outfit took on struggling Luton Leagrave and came away with a 9-5 defeat. This Sunday they are at the Peter Newton Ground taking on USL, a team brimming with confidence after last week's win over Leagrave Wanderers in the Centenary Cup. Manager Steve Blackhurst will be without his wonderboy Yasir Rashid who is away in Germany. This leaves room for Suna Miah and Ishtiaq Shahid to impress and confirm their position as the second striker in line. Mujahid Zaman is still out injured, whilst Shamim Ali is once again in contention as William Gibb is unavailable. USL Web prediction - USL 4 Somerset Tavern 1

COLD MORNING, HOT GAME December 10th 2006

Leagrave Wanderers 1 United Sporting Luton 5 (Centenary Cup Round 4 )

Steve Blackhurst is in a joyous mood today after his players handed him an early Christmas present. USL are through to the quarter finals of the Bedfordshire Centenary Cup after a comfortable 5-1 win over Leagrave Wanderers. They will be home to Bedford team Marston Reds who beat fellow league opposition AC Cadoza 3-2. On a cold December morning with temperatures low as 3 degrees celsius, a hot game was needed to keep the 25 or so supporters warm. Both teams respectfully delivered and apart from one fan coming to the game with a t- shirt, the rest remained all the way to the final whistle. After the match Steve Blackhurst told USL Web that he was delighted with his team's overall performance, especially with the two central defenders, David Mitchell and Dean Ashton. The duo were given strict orders on how to defend and both responded very well. Blackhurst was also pleased with his central midfielders Junaid Afzal and Abdel Razak, both of whom were solid, committed and highly creative. It was Razor Razak's first full game this season and signs of total match fitness were clearly evident. Afzal, known as the German Stallion, was awesome in midfield, cutting through the opposition, he made several passes which confused the Wanderers back four. Afzal and Razak's dominancy were rewarded in fairy tale style as both scored from open play with well taken goals. Yasir Rashid was on the score sheet again putting the ball away twice and gaining his 32nd of the season. Will Gibb came on to replace Duhaj Uddin and played with such belief that the youngster netted his second goal in as many games. If he maintains his playing rhythm, Gibb will surely grab the right winger role. All in all, a terrific performance by USL and one that will be remembered for the match and not the freezing temperature.

USL WANDERING ABOUT LEAGRAVE December 8th 2006

This Sunday USL are away to North Home Counties side Leagrave Wanderers in the last 16 of the Centenary Cup. Playing in Division Four, the Wanderers have played eight games so far this season, winning five and losing three. Lying fourth in the table, they are averaging two goals per game and conceding the same number. As the LSL is regarded the same level as NHC Division 2 and 3, and with USL flying high in their respective league, a win is more of a surety than a defeat. Than again this is a cup match and both clubs will be determined to field their strongest eleven. The prospect of playing in the quarter finals is mouth watering for any given player. On the day, who ever is victorious, show a greater determination than their losing counterpart. Manager Steve Blackhurst will once again face the dilemma of a long injury list but if recent results are anything to go by, USL have enough talent to pull through. USL Web prediction - Leagrave Wanderers 2 USL 4.

USL IN THE NEWS AGAIN December 6th 2006

Luton's local newspaper, the Luton News have today printed a photo of USL and reported on their narrow 5-4 win over Ramblers Eleven. So take a bow lads!

WILSON RELIGHTS USL's FIRE December 3rd 2006

United Sporting Luton 5 Ramblers Eleven 4

Photo - USL celebrate goal

Peter Wilson was on tremendous form today as the captain helped secure his team's sixth league win of the season. From the very start the twenty year old showed all the qualities of a commanding captain. He so much wanted a win that he must have ran 10 km in total. Playing with passion, hunger, determination and self belief, Wilson raised his voice and urged his team mates not to surrender until the final whistle's blown. By half time, USL were 2-1 down with both sides evenly balanced but the second half saw USL with better possession and an improvement on passing of the ball. The interval saw Abdel Razak and Ishtiaq Shahid give way to Kamran Tahir and William Gibb. Both played an important part in the the revival and deservedly Gibb got his first goal in front of a dozen USL supporters. Gibbs runs down the left flank played havoc for the Rams left back whilst Tahir directed the ball on many occasions towards Yasir Rashid up front. Rashid scored four goals today which takes his scoring spree to 30 in 11 matches. Crucially, the winner came from Rashid in the dying seconds of normal playing time. From outside the box Rashid fired home with a beautifully taken free kick. In all honesty, the Rams at times played like league leaders, especially new sensation Daniel Owens, who himself scored a hat trick.

Photo - Rams striker Daniel Owens

Always calm and composed, Owens scored probably the best goal of the game. Collecting the ball from the middle of the USL half and racing towards goal, swerving past keeper Ben Swiercz and blasting it in to the net. It's Owens seventeenth of the season and one that he'll cherish for a long time. Overall, both teams had chances to kill the game off but lady luck favoured none. If Ramblers can maintain and improve their current squad, than they are looking good to becoming an elite LSL side. USL on the other hand, will provide manager Steve Blackhurst plenty to think about before next week's Centenary Cup tie against Leagrave Wanderers. Tajul Islam and Kevin Garbett are back in contention but Mujahid Zaman is sidelined until the new year.

USL V RAMBLERS November 30th 2006

Last season the Rams gave USL the fright of their lives. The first meeting saw USL winning 10-0 away but in the home match at Stockwood Park they were beaten 2-1. It was THE shock result of the season and one that makes this Sunday's match just a tiny bit interesting. Both teams have added new players into their squad and looking at the league table, are far better than last season. Kamrul Haque, manager of the Rams, was adamant to get things right this season. His best signing is the capture of Daniel Owens who is a regular scorer. Astonishingly, Ramblers have amassed more points and scored more goals than they had achieved all of last season. If ever there was a game where Steve Blackhurst must make the right choices, both tactically and the shape of the team, than this is it. Last week the Rams lost 3-2 to Melson Arms, which goes to show they are no pushovers. For USL to win, the midfield has to play in the manner they did in the opening three games. Full of flare and passing of the ball far better than most clubs in the LSL. Yasir Rashid may be the lone striker up front but the wingers must take their chances. Kamran Tahir doesn't seem to be a left winger but more of a central midfielder. Tahir may not be the fastest player on the field but his vision of play is second to none. USL Web prediction - USL 2 Ramblers Eleven 3

MATCH CALLED OFF November 25th 2006

Dunstable Council has canceled all matches being played on their pitches. According to the Pitches Office the recent lashing down of rain has damaged the playing surface.

USL V WHEELWRIGHTS November 25th 2006

Having lost to Stopsley Common last week, USL must get back to winning ways if they are to remain in the hunt for the league title. All the top four teams have lost one match and as things stand USL are not out of it by any means. Wheelwrights are this week's visitors to the Peter Newton Ground and looking at the table, they aren't doing that well. They have played eight, won and drew just once as well as losing on six occasions. Their goal scoring record is the worst in the league with only 16 goals and defensively they conceded 34. It's their first season and like so many new teams, will need time before they make any improvements. USL will go into the game without Mujahid Zaman, Shamim Ali, Tajul Islam, Christian Baxter, Mohbub Hussain, Akthar Miah and Duhaj Uddin. Shamim Ali picked up an injury whilst playing for his College team and Duhaj Uddin is on vacation. With so many players out, Steve Blackhurst will call upon the reserves for Sunday's clash. Even with a weakened line up, USL should pick up maximum points. USL Web prediction - USL 4 Wheelwrights 0.

MANAGEMENT MEETING CONFIRMS NEW AMBITIONS November 21st 2006

USL held it's Autumn General Meeting yesterday and set out plans for the next four months. The charity organisation Pasque Hospice will be approached to reach a consensus on how best the club can raise funds to help implement their good cause. The renowned institution was chosen as the club's official charity back in June 2006. Mark Relf, Head of fund raising for Pasque told USL Web back than that he was extremely delighted and looking forward to working with the club. Financing Pasque is a significant factor in ensuring their good work continues and assistance from the local community is always welcomed.

Phtoto - USL's Board of Directors

2007 will be seen as the year in which the club will be actively promoting itself to the wider Luton community. The first ever USL calendar will be received by 70% of the Luton population and this year's theme is 'Reflecting Luton. The delivery date for the calendars will be the second week of January 2007. With regards to bringing in extra revenue and help the club broaden it's horizon, a loyalty card will be introduced. With it players, club officials, family members as well as people from the general public can receive discount prices on everyday products and services. The final details will be clarified in the next few days. Watch this space.

STOPSLEY TRAPP ON November 19th 2006

United Sporting Luton 1 Stopsley Common 2

Today's game at the Peter Newton Ground paired together the league's best attacking line against the best defence. The result was a game filled with an abundance of chances and plenty of missed opportunities. Yasir Rashid, the league's top scorer found it difficult to breakdown a solid Stopsley defence. Alone up front, Rashid found himself constantly being tracked by two players instead of the usual one. With injury to several key defenders plaguing Steve Blackhurst's choice of selection, Stopsley's leading scorer James Trapp had sufficient openings to kill the game off. In the end a well taken solo goal by Trapp and a debatable penalty gave the Commoners all three points and still within a chance for capturing their first league title. Although Shamim Ali equalised at the end of the first half and James Childs hit the post with a thunderous shot, USL went into half time believing that with the sun behind them and playing downhill, a win wasn't impossible to achieve. However, Stopsley came out fighting and had more of the possession. They looked hungrier and deservedly went 2-1 up by scoring from a debatable penalty.

Photo - Dean Ashton

With USL's Dean Ashton playing to his best, Stopsley were getting frustrated with missed opportunities. Ashton was one of few USL players to show true passion and vast determination in getting something out of the game. In the dying minutes new signing Ishtiaq Shahid nearly equalised, only to find the side netting. Overall, the best team won and where Stopsley couldn't wait to carry on, USL spent more time arguing with the referee. Conversely, If Blackhurst's men have any chance of winning the title, than these embarrassing incidents must be crossed out. Players with a fair play mentality must maintain their rhythm and above all their composure. Another defeat to teams in the top six will dampen chances of winning the league.

USL v STOPSLEY COMMON November 17th 2006

USL have lost one game in nineteen league and cup outings. A record second only to that of Chalk Hill who lost only once in 22 matches. This Sunday USL are home to the team that beat them and that's Stopsley Common. The East Luton representatives finished third in the league last season with 16 wins and 6 losses. This season they are carrying on from pretty much where they had left off. In total they have played six games, won 4, drew 1 and lost 1. So far they have scored 22 goals and conceded only 9. With plenty of goals making the scoresheet and the defence holding their line, the Commoners are proving to be a difficult team to beat. However, at times they struggle to compete with their strongest squad and don't have enough substitutes to replace injured players. In all honesty, in the game against USL, a league cup game back in early October, Stopsley didn't take advantage of a weak line up. Defenders Akthar Miah, Mohbub Hussain, Kevin Garbett and midfielders Tajul Islam and Suna Miah were all out from playing. Only Suna Miah is back for this coming match along with new signings Ishtiaq Shahid, Abdel Razak, William Gibb, Yasin Mohammed and Kamran Tahir. Most of these players were on superb form against Gloucester Arms last Sunday and should be playing against Stopsley. USL should be better than their last meeting with the Commoners and when you have the likes of Tahir, Razak and Wilson producing top notch passes, gifting Yasir Rashid to become the league's top scorer, USL may well get all three points. USL Web prediction USL 3 Stopsley Common 1.

A TIME TO REFLECT November 14th 2006

The season is now one third of the way completed and already we are seeing USL make the best start to a season in their short history. In came new manager Steve Blackhurst, who with bags of managerial experience have transformed a mid table team to that of a title challenging mean machine. Young boys who fantasised playing professional football have become young men out to capture realistic dreams. The ultimate objective is to win the club's first league title and as things stand USL are on track to fulfilling it. The boys in purple are now unbeaten in thirteen league matches, 17 if we consider the Centenary Cup, only after 90 minutes of normal time. Who can forget those dreaded 30 minutes of extra time played against Chalk Hill in the final.

Photo - Team huddle before playing Bedford Pad

USL's dominance began way back in March when they were at home to Bedford Pad in the Centenary Cup semi final. The Bedford team had to pick the ball out of their own net five times and only managed to score one goal. Apart from the result what left most USL supporters in sheer disbelief was the manner in which USL played. Full of passion, hunger and a never say die mentality. From than on USL never looked back and as each game past into history, the club's future looked brighter than ever. USL finished the season in high spirits and went into pre season filled with an extra cutting edge to their game. The arrival of Steve Blackhurst as manager was a master stroke. The likes of Blackhurst are quite rare, especially in the Three Counties. He made an immediate impact on the team and unlocked the talents which many felt they never had. Yasir Rashid is scoring goals for fun and have become the league's deadliest striker. An average of 3 goals per match is enough to scare the pants out of any team. What's more Rashid is only 19 years old and a smart man for that matter. Currently his an undergraduate, studying at Queen Mary University in London and so far this season, the USL hitman has scored 26 goals in 9 games. Club Secretary Shakayet Hussain told USL Web "If this guy continues in this style I won't have any choice but to write letters to semi pro clubs. If I am honest, I won't be sad to see him go. I will be very proud if I can help him better his game by releasing to a club from a higher league."

Photo - USL legend Yasir Rashid with Manager Steve Blackhurst

USL's defence is probably the best in the league as well as across South Beds. They have conceded a mere 10 goals in 6 games. That's 1.6 per game and in Sunday league football, a pretty good record. Mujahid Zaman, aka The Rock, has been sensational along with Mohbub Hussain, Dean Ashton, Akthar Miah, David Mitchell and Duhaj Uddin. Their playing style has been compared to that of the old Arsenal guard which had Tony Adams at the helm. The USL defence put on a super show against Luton Leagrave back in October, where the visitors were rarely given a chance to shoot on goal.

The midfield under the leadership of Captain Peter Wilson has maintained a rhythm of play resembling the samba dance. Some of the passing is simply magical and very deceptive. One onlooker described them as football's answer to the Harlem Globetrotters, who were geniuses in deceiving their opponents in Basketball. With Abdel Razak back in contention, the midfield can only get better. As winter is fast approaching, along with icing temperatures and unsavory conditions, USL will have to dig deep into their mental and physical strengths if they are to overcome this giant of an obstacle. Until the next report make Luton proud...support USL.

AKTHAR JOINS INJURY LIST November 13th 2006

Photo - Akthar Miah

News just coming in that defender Akthar Miah is ruled out with a ligament injury for a month. The right back picked it up from yesterday's clash with Gloucester Arms. The news will come as bitter blow for Manager Blackhurst who already has upto 7 players out with injury.

LUCKY NUMBER SEVEN November 12th 2006

Gloucester Arms 3 United Sporting Luton 7 (Centenary Cup Round 3)

Photo - USL's Duhaj Uddin

USL go into the fourth round of the Centenary Cup after ending Gloucester Arms's cup hopes with a 7-3 victory at Moor Lane, Bedford. Gloucester went into the game with six continuous wins under their belt but had two key players missing. USL had up to 4 players out with injury and from what it seems will have to wait until Christmas in order to field their strongest eleven. The match however, was a lively encounter that gave supporters immense pleasure throughout the whole of the 90 minutes. Notably, if it weren't for the brilliance of Gloucester's keeper, the defeat may well have been in double figures. Man of the match Christopher Barton made a string of wonderful saves that kept his side in the game and at times inspired the Bedford team to battle on to earn a respectable result. Overall, USL started brightly and apart from a few moments of lacking in concentration, weren't under any serious threat of losing the match. Yasir Rashid got his sixth hat trick of the season. Peter Wilson as always looked sharp and formidable in his midfield role. In the Gloucester penalty area, Wilson broke free on many occasions but the Gloucester centre backs did ever so well to keep him frustrated. He scored the opener and could have had a second but was knocked down to the ground by the home defence. It left USL supporters fuming at the match official but Kamran Tahir's quick thinking saw the ball fall in front of him and his goal reconciled Wilson's bleeding lip.

Photo - Peter Wilson receiving a lip cut

Abdel Razak made his first full start of the season and put on a performance that came as a sigh of relief for manager Steve Blackhurst. With Junaid Afzal missing from first team action, Razak kept the midfield boat steady. The Algerian's timely passes and wonderful vision were of the highest caliber and his brilliance was polished off with a superb solo goal as well as getting the nod for USL's man of the match salute. In hindsight, USL have a terrific chance of lifting the cup this season but it can all go pear shape if their moments of lacking in concentration continue. There are players in the squad who on their day can play gallantly and Manager Blackhurst has so far done a good job in bringing the best out of them. Having said that, as winter approaches and the injury list gets longer, one inevitable question arises. Do USL posses enough depth and hunger to keep their season alive? Next week they are at home to the only team to have beaten them in 19 games, Stopsley Common. A win will go along way to say "yes they do".

UP NORTH TO GLOUCESTER ARMS November 8th 2006

USL are still unsure if defender Mujahid Zaman and midfielder Azmol Ali will be available for the trip up to Bedford against newly formed club Gloucester Arms in the Beds Centenary Cup. Manager Steve Blackhurst will leave his selection decision until Sunday morning and the way things are at the moment, Dean Ashton may have to drop to centre back and Abdel Razak come on to make his first full start in midfield this season. Mohbub Hussain is still injured, along with Tajul Islam who has been out since last March.

Photo - Last season's final

It's a game of full importance for USL as they will try to emulate last year's cup run that ended in a disappointing defeat to AFC Chalk Hill in the final. Gloucester Arms play in the Bedford and District Football League Fifth Division and have played seven games so far. Apart from losing their opening two games, Gloucester are five games unbeaten. In hindsight, the match will be tough for the visitors but with recent good individual performances, USL should go through. The match kick's off at 10:30am and will be played at Moor Lane, Bedford. Supporters are urged by the club to be at Denbigh High School before 9 am, when the entire team departs for the half an hour drive up north. USL Web prediction Gloucester Arms 2 USL 3.

THE REVOLUTIONISED KID November 5th 2006

Houghton Revolution 1 United Sporting Luton 4

Shamim Ali aka The Kid, put on fantastic performance that earned USL all three points against Houghton Revolution. From the very start he rarely put a foot wrong and went close to scoring on a few occasions. With James Childs stuck on the M1 Motorway, manager Steve Blackhurst was delighted that his decision to give Shamim the nod paid off. Along with Azmol Ali, he was instrumental in some neat clever passing and movement of the ball. Houghton played better as a team than when they last played USL. In all honesty their performance didn't reflect the scoreline and could well have scored two but were denied by the woodwork. Almost immidiately USL counter attacked and Yasir Rashid thumped the ball home. Kamran Tahir scored his third goal in three games and his performance appear to better each game. Sadly, in a game filled with long balls and scrappy play, two USL players were taken off injured. Mujahid Zaman will be out for a lengthy spell by picking up a foot injury whilst Azmol Ali was carried off for a ligament problem. Worrying times ahead for Blackhurst, whose team have some very important games coming up, both in the league and Centenary Cup. Next week's visit to Bedford to play Gloucester Arms in the Cup will have up to five key players out with injury. The question now is, are USL well equipped to cover the injured players. If not, it maybe all downhill for a club which set high expectations at the start of the season.

HOUGHT FOR HONOUR November 4th 2006

The last time these two teams met back in early September, USL were runaway winners thrashing Houghton Revolution 8-0. Since than, the Revolution got better and picked up points along the way to show for it. Their biggest win came in the League Cup against Luton Warriors at home and lost only 3 games out of six in the league. Not bad for a team that finished bottom of the league last year having lost 18 games and having conceded 130 goals. With a track record bad as Jose Mourinho's ego, Houghton have somewhat come along way and signs of improvement have already begun to shine. The 4-3 drubbing of Luton Warriors is a clear example of Houghton's hunger to get some honour and self belief back in their club. USL may well be flying high at the top but if there is a bogey team out there, than this Sunday may see USL hitting the brakes hard. However, If Manager Steve Blackhurst's midweek roasting of the players is anything to go by, USL may well get all three points but it won't be easy as it was first time round. USL Web prediction Houghton Revolution 2 USL 4.

DRAWBACK October 29th 2006

United Sporting Luton 3 Melson Arms 3

USL gave away a 3-1 lead with ten minutes remaining on the clock. It left Manager Steve Blackhurst literally sick and supporters in sheer disbelief. They were all up beat with the scoreline as well as witnessing USL playing some of their best football so far in to the season.

Photo - USL supporters in disbelief with Melson comeback

James Childs deservedly gave USL the lead with a speedy run from the right, smacking it past Melson keeper Andrew Ward. Throughout the first half USL were not looking under any real pressure and midfielder Kamran Tahir put them 2-0 up. Melson came close twice in making the score level, only for the woodwork stopping them. The second half started with both teams in attacking mode. Again Melson failed to score by hitting the woodwork and as a result their determination in getting something out of the game appeared to fade away. Than midway through the half Yasir Rashid was judged to have been brought down by keeper Andrew Ward and referee Mick Stokes was quick to blow for a penalty. His decision angered the Melson players who felt Rashid intentionally took a dive but that didn't stop him taking the penalty with calm and absolute precise. With a quarter of an hour to go Melson was given a free kick outside USL's box and Nicky Collins scored a superb goal that received applause from all at the game. He swerved the ball past USL's defence and past a shocked Shinkaiye in goal.

Photo - Nicky Collins scores for Melson Arms

Collins's goal inspired his team to fight back into the game and with ten minutes to go Steve Tyler thought he scored, only for the linesman to raise his flag up for offside. It was all Melson after that and goals from Declan McConville and Marc Fonseca levelled the match 3-3. It ended a game that was full of excitement and non-stop action. Duhaj Uddin came off injured and referee Stokes sent off Michael McDonald for what he believed was a dangerous tackle. Luck may have favoured Melson to a draw but when you hit the woodwork three tiimes, just who had lady luck up their sleeve today?

UNPREDICTABLE October 27th 2006

USL's record against Melson Arms is grim reading but this season the club are seeing a reversal in fortune. Winning four games out of four is the best start to any season and as things presently stand, USL look good in challenging for the title. Melson Arms have been together for a long time and always look menacing as a unit. They may have lost 4-1 against Luton Warriors in the league but many see it as a bleep. Only last week the Melson Army won against tough opposition Stopsley Common 2-1. USL were well beaten by the Commoners 4-1 in the League Cup. However, in the Centenary Cup USL saw luck help them win 6-5 against Warriors. The results indicate that this season's matches are unpredictable and could go in any way on the day. Both USL and Melson Arms have come close friends over pre-season but on Sunday morning both will go out hungry for all three points. Anything less will add that extra pressure in fighting for top spot. USL Web prediction USL 2 Melson Arms 2.

RAZOR IS BACK October 23rd 2006

Abdel Razak is on his way back to USL this week after a lengthy spell out. The striker fondly called 'Razor Razak' by his team mates will add an extra dimension in midfield. With Junaid Afzal and Mohbub Hussain out until the new year, Razak's return is very good timing. USL are witnessing their best start to a season since forming the club. The aim now is to make sure it doesn't collapse and Razak is just the man to keep the good vibes glowing.

Photo - Abdel Razak and wife

DESTINY BY PERFORMANCE 0ctober 19th 2006

Manager Steve Blackhurst has warned his players that scoring ten goals against weaker opposition is not going to gurantee the league title. He told USL Web "If we are to do well this season in the league then our destiny will be determined not by ten goal victories against weaker teams but by the performances we put in and results we get from the games like Melson Arms on 29 October". Blackhurst further emphasised the need for players to be made available for both training sessions and matchdays. In the Managers opinion fail to prepare, prepare to fail!

Photo - USL in training

GRAVED OFF THE PARK October 15th 2006

Luton Leagrave 3 United Sporting Luton 12

USL go back to the top of the table today with a thumping win over Luton Leagrave. The last time these two teams met was three weeks ago, which USL won comfortably 8-1. Today was no different, though there were some early pressure piled by Leagrave. As the game continued so did Leagrave's decline in pressure. After last weeks league cup defeat against Stopsley Common, USL worked hard to get back to playing the passing football which they are renowned for. Against the Commoners several key USL players were absent and today saw the return of a few and the start of a promising new midfielder. Shamim Ali and Dean Ashton returned from injury and were superb throughout the game.

Photo - Shamim Ali aka The Kid

Ali aka The Kid scored two goals since coming on as a second half substitute and Ashton strengthened the defence which was so badly missed last week. Kamran Tahir who has signed for the club this week looked sharp and picked out players with some magical passes. He also scored on his debut, something of a good start and hopefully of more bright things to come. As ever Yasir Rashid and Peter Wilson played with passion and hunger that earned them four goals each. Azmol Ali was never really under any serious pressure and the midfielder even got on the score sheet, his first for the season. Overall, Steve Blackhurst should be happy with his side maintaining their hundred percent record in the league. The only thought for concern is what will he do if or when the injury list gets longer. Both goalkeeper Samuel Shinkaiye and defender Mujahid Zaman were playing with injuries. With Mohbub Hussain and Tajul Islam out until Christmas, Blackhurst's team may face trouble ahead.

STOP BEING SILLY October 8th 2006

Stopsley Common 4 United Sporting Luton 1 (League Cup Round 1)

Club Secretary Shakayet Hussain has openly criticised some of the USL players for playing what he called "silly football". He told USL Web "We had a few key players out through injury but those who wore the purple shirt today played some silly football. At times it was so dismal that I had to look the other way in utter frustration. Too many times we were second for the ball and found it difficult to pass it around the field. We also got lost in communication as on various occasions Peter Wilson and Duhaj Uddin were the only players dictating play. Steve (boss) worked tremendously hard to enhance our passing game and on today's showing the players have a lot of explaining to do. The boss will be outraged if this type of play continue." Hussain's anger must not take anything away from the Commoners. The Stopsley boys were in control of the game right from the very onset. Hero of the match was Steven Doyle, who carried on playing, even after receiving a cut above his left eye. After being bandaged Doyle resembled Terry Butcher's face during the 1990 World Cup in Italy.

Photo - USL and Stopsley battling it out in midfield

Funnily enough, the two man of the matches were the two captains. Peter Wilson (USL) and Steve Neale (Stopsley) were both fantastic as leaders of their teams. Throughout the 90 minutes both players urged their players on and always gave it 110 percent. James Trapp looked every part the deadly striker he is reputed as. Trapp broke free on several occasions and found the net twice with fellow team mate Scott Ford scoring the other two goals. Last week Trapp scored seven goals in the Centenary Cup against Wheelwrights whom Stopsley went on to destroyed 14-0. Duhaj Uddin scored for USL and his team must now concentrate on the league. Stopsley have clearly shown just how good you have to reach in order to stand any chance of lifting the title.

BRAVE WARRIORS OUT October 1st 2006

United Sporting Luton 6 Luton Warriors 5 - (Centenary Cup Round 2)

Luton Warriors were unlucky not to have gone through to the next round of the Centenary Cup. They found themselves 4-1 down and any hopes of a revival unimaginable. However, with all great teams comes determination, belief and above all hunger not to accept defeat. Taurai Matereke's men fought back to level the result 5-5 and with three minutes left conceded to a Jakub Wiatrowski goal, much to the relief of USL players and supporters alike. USL took the lead from Yasir Rashid who went on to score four in total. The inform striker has now bagged a total of 16 goals in four games, making him the league's most deadlier of the strikers. Defender Duhaj Uddin scored his second goal of the season with Wiatrowski getting his first. Warriors had several long spells of dominant possession. In one instance, they put together 17 passes and always looked in scoring. The defence maintained their composure but were at times outplayed by the Warriors frontline. The most spectacular Warriors goal was finished by a bicycle kick which received applause from both set of supporters.

Samuel Shinkaiye probably had his worst game in a USL shirt and the same could be said about a half a dozen more players. Manager Steve Blackhurst was dismayed with some of the play. He told USL Web "Whilst I was relieved to win the game and pleased with the goals scored and opportunities created, overall I was desperately disappointed with our worst performance of the season where for the first time we failed to impose ourselves and the team as a whole failed to do basic defensive work with too many players feeling that defending was someone else's responsibility." Blackhurst is looking forward to playing the Warriors again as he feels they offered a real challenge in the best footballing sense of the word. Next in the Centenary Cup is an away fixture against Bedford outfit Gloucester Arms.

WARRIORS SHOUT A CHALLENGE September 28th 2006

Warriors boss Taurai Matereke has warned USL not to get their hopes up high in knocking them out of the Centenary Cup this coming Sunday. In an interview with USL Web Matereke stated "Are your (USL) boys ready for a hiding. We certainly are up for it and we will show you what we are made of."

Photo - Taurai Matereke

Games against the Warriors has on all occasions provided exciting high scoring matches. It's the first time the two clubs will meet in the Centenary Cup and both are determined to have a long cup run. Matereke's squad hasn't changed much from last season but USL on the other hands has slightly improved. Striker Yasir Rashid is back to his playing best whilst the defence are conceding far less than previous. The talisman in the USL team has to be Peter Wilson, who is improving as a captain with each game played. Nicknamed "The Pitbull" Wilson will have to lead his team cautiously if USL are to get anything out of the game. In the league, both teams are performing reasonably well, with USL looking the sharpest in the hunt for the title. USL Web prediction 3-2 to USL.

GAME OF MISSED CHANCES 24th September 2006

United Sporting Luton 8 Luton Leagrave 1

Steve Blackhurst's men are playing some of the best football in the league yet chances are not being put away. In a competition where goal difference can play a significant part in deciding outcomes, USL find themselves at crossroads. They have scored nineteen goals in three matches but if all the chances wasted were put away, the total would be in double figures. USL Treasurer Nazmul Uddin told USL Web "We should be happy with nineteen goals scored but it is frustrating seeing chances going to waste. Some of them my grandmother can tuck away (laughing). Of course I am delighted with the start that we made. We played much better than Leagrave today but it should have finished 14-1 to us." Uddin's frustration is easy to comprehend, as on so many occasions we have seen Blackhurst's men put together some great passes, only for the final ball finished off poorly. The best move of the match involved ten passes with Duhaj Uddin just missing the target. Peter Wilson scored his second goal in three games and could easily have had his third. The USL Captain found himself unmarked and no goalkeeper in sight. With only the goal staring at him, Wilson miskicked and the ball found itself getting ready for a goal kick.

Above - David Mitchell

David Mitchell was sensational in midfield feeding the front-line with some clever passes. It was Mitchell's first full game which received instant applause from both players and the big man himself, Steve Blackhurst. Yasir Rashid has confirmed himself as the league's top marksman. He scored five goals today, which takes his tally to 12 in 3 games, a record par with any great striker. Also, Dean Ashton and Suna Miah got their first goals of the season.

HOUGH'S THAT 10th September 2006

United Sporting Luton 8 Houghton Revolution 0

United Sporting Luton's great start to the season continued with a crushing win against Houghton Revolution. Yasir Rashid scored four goals, making the nineteen year old the league's leading goalscorer with seven. Rashid was highly impressive in a one sided match that may well have gone disastrously wrong for the away side. USL wasted a succession of chances but always looked potent in front of goal. Duhaj Uddin got on the scoresheet with probably the best team goal so far in USL's four year history. The defender was also on tremendous form alongside Mohbub Hussain in defence, blocking whatever the opposition could foster. Junaid Afzal was dominant in midfield setting up diagonal passes that created havoc for the Houghton back line.

Photo - USL showing dominancy in defence

Steve Blackhurst was delighted with his side's impressive start to the season and was quick to praise his players. He told USL Web " I was particularly pleased with our forward play which was high quality. The passing and movement was exceptional and the quantity of the goals was outstanding. Still a lot to work on, particularly in the areas of cutting down opposition chances but overall, another good days work and it's worth remembering that Houghton are not going to get beaten 8-0 every week." With the League Cup game against Stopsley Common rescheduled for the 8th October, Blackhurst's men go into day 3 of the competition sitting comfortably on top of the league.

WHAT A COINCIDENCE 9th September 2006

USL's first home game in their new ground is against former occupiers of the Peter Newton Ground, Houghton Revolution. Assistant Manager Azad Ali spoke to USL Web this morning "What a coincidence. It could have been any team from the 13 available but it had to be the Revolution. I am sure they were angered upon hearing that we have taken over. It's a lovely playing venue with fantastic facilities and I hope we can keep hold of it for years to come. We shouldn't have much difficulty in picking up all three points because Houghton havn't changed much from last season. Having said that you can never predict outcomes in football, which is why I have told the players not to get carried away and just play to their best." USL deservedly beat title favourites Dunstable Town last week and if they continue playing in that manner, they too may end up being the season's dark horse. USL Web prediction 7-1 to USL.

RASHID INSPIRES USL TO VICTORY 3rd September 2006

Dunstable Town 2 United Sporting Luton 3

Striker Yasir Rashid scored a hat trick to give Steve Blackhurst a winning start as USL's first team boss. The nineteen year could have had six under his belt as one hit the crossbar and the others narrowly missed their target. The opening twenty five minutes were dominated by the USL midfield, especially Azmol Ali who rarely gave the ball away. Playing against a strong wind, Ali made several accurate passes to the forward line, as well as linking well with fellow midfielder Junaid Afzal. Yasir Rashid's opener was canceled out when referee Godfrey Fredrick awarded Town a penalty for Akthar Miah's slide tackle inside the box. The decision shocked those watching the game because from where they were watching, it looked like a perfectly timed tackle. Take nothing away from Fredrick though, who once again proved that he is the best in the business. His control of the game prevented the two teams from exchanging heated arguments.

PhotoPhoto - Steve Blackhurst with hat trick hero Yasir Rashid

Dunstable Town, under Dean Brennan had a few good spells but couldn't match up to USL's playing style. With the wind behind them, Town rarely took the advantage. At times it felt as if they were facing the wind. Though Adam Garden and Marlon Jones scored for Town, the limelight shun on Rashid, whose impressive record of scoring hat tricks continue. With his first win achieved, Steve Blackhurst told USL Web "We were the better side overall and deserved the win. However, the percentage of poor passes continue to worry me and over the next few training sessions I am hoping to rectify that." Club Secretary Shakayet Hussain also feels the win was rightly deserved. He commented by saying "The wind was behind us in the second half. In a way it is an extra player. Like Dunstable Town we did not use it to our best advantage. There were moments when players had the chance to shoot from outside the box. Had they done so, the scoreline may well have been different. If it wasn't for the brilliance of keeper Samuel Shinkaiye, Town may well have won it today."

USL Line-up: Samuel Shinkaiye, Akthar Miah, Duhaj Uddin, Mujahid Zaman, Mohbub Hussain, James Childs, Azmol Ali, Peter Wilson, Jakub Wiatrowski (Evouna 70), Junaid Afzal and Yasir Rashid.