Diss Town FC - Tangerines Can Play (FM 2010)

[MacroGuru]

In our pre-match meeting Phil feels like we are at a major disadvantage against this team.

Height
Determination
Aggression
Technique
Touch

I might as well mail this game in right? HELL NO! We are going to continue our streak and I expect us to. Robbie Harris was a little cocky last match and I hope he changes his attitude or I will sub his ass faster than anything.

Keith Coyle is our ref and has yet to cover a EC1 game. He has only called 1 PK and avgs 3.4 yellow cards per game...time to use that Aggression of Thetford to our advantage and again come in cautious with this game.

I also have to be aware as we have the Norfolk County Senior Cup match coming up in 3 days after this match. It's also time to welcome in our newest transfer on the Defense Kieran Drummond..

Honors even at The Recreation Ground
Thetford Town 1 - 1 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town were held to a draw by Thetford Town in a close-fought Eastern Counties D1 match played at The Recreation Ground.

Centre-back James Cairns gave Thetford the lead with a header in the 13th minute. Diss' equalizer came through Matty Hemsley as he seized on Paul Talbot's mistake to score a penalty. Better late than never for Diss and the fans were clearly delighted with Hemsley's impact.

Attendance: 157

We missed far to many chances Reeves bounced several shots off the top bar and had a few blocked by their keeper.We were lucky to come away with 1 point and the draw on this one though, the fortunate tackle from behind in the box is what drew the PK.

Keith called this game a little more loose at the beginning and then tightened down at the end. Botley was set as a sub because I would have needed him in the next match and I knew he was 1 yellow away from being suspended but Paddy's injury forced him to come on.

Tom Botley has picked up an automatic one match suspension after collecting 5 yellow cards.

The suspension will apply for all English domestic competitions.

It's my fault I didn't realize he racked up 5 yellows in the last 5 matches and I should have been aware, but now I will definitely let him know how this affects the team.

As for Paddy's injury..

Gary Lewin has reported that central midfielder Paddy Mumbley has suffered a torn hamstring after pulling up short while chasing the ball during the match against Thetford.

Lewin advises you that unfortunately the only course of action for a torn hamstring is for the player to see a specialist. It is likely that Mumbley will be out for between 2 months and 3 months while he is treated.

This injury definitely sucks. Since we acquired Paddy on the transfer he has been a rock for us in the MF...now I am going to be without him for the next 3 months minimum and on top of that Botley is suspended for our next game.

I think our Cup chances just got knocked down some more.

[MacroGuru]

We are picked as favorites to stomp this team into the ground and we Glenn Turner as our ref for this match and he definitely is a disciplinarian.

We introduce our newest defender in this game Kieran Drummond and continue our 3-4-3 play.

Tangerines unimpressive
Horsford United 0 - 1 Diss Town (Norfolk Senior Cup 4th Rnd)

Diss Town were almost embarrassed by Horsford United in the Norfolk County FA Senior Cup Fourth Round match at Horsford Utd Stadium.

Things turned sour for Horsford Utd when player Steve Wordsworth earned himself an early shower for persistent fouling on 36 minutes. Centre-back Kieran Drummond gave Diss the lead with a header in the 37th minute.

Diss covered a lot of ground but also gave up far too many fouls, meaning their effort was often for nothing.

Attendance: 71

As the headlines state, we really were...with a man down we should have scored consistently and it shows just how young and inexperienced we are up front, but I am happy with what we have there.

Kieran Drummond was the best player on the park during Diss' 1 - 0 Norfolk County FA Senior Cup Fourth Round victory over Horsford Utd this afternoon and the margin of victory should have been even greater.

The Diss central defender enjoyed a good game for his team and more than deserved his goal.

The new Diss signing has already made it known in recent days that he is pleased to be part of the setup at Brewers Green Lane.

Kieran had an amazing strike for the goal but he also shut down this team on any chances they had at moving forward.

Another week long break as we move to play at home against Downham.

In other news..Anthony Roberts and Joe Barwick both selected the clubs they wanted to play on and we wish them well.

Our 37 year old Left Winger Chris Allen who I brought in on a free transfer, was just offered by Herne Bay up in Division 9..I can't fault him if he takes it it is a step up..

[MacroGuru]

We are picked as favorites in this match again which the way we have been playing I feel it is right. We should be able to beat any team right now...I need to get the 3 teams ahead of us to lose so we can catch up.

Wayne McIntosh is calling our game and it is his first EC1 match, he has been brutal with the yellow card in all of his matches, another cautious approach on our end.

Diss in control as Town are brushed aside
Diss Town 1 - 0 Downham Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town battled to a deserved 1 - 0 victory over Downham Town on a fine autumn afternoon in their English Eastern Counties League Division One game at Brewers Green Lane.

Downham got off to the worst possible start as Ryan Lescott was sent off in the 23rd minute. Diss finally took the lead when young midfielder Daniel Smith scored a real poacher's effort in the 56th minute.

Diss covered a lot of ground but also gave up far too many fouls, meaning their effort was often for nothing.

Attendance: 161

So twenty three minutes into the match they lose a player to his second yellow card and we can only score one goal. Reeves hit the top bar, the side bar, the keeper....he hit everything else but the back of the damn net, the kid has to get his aim on or the other forwards have to be prepared for the rebound.

The win was nice.

Diss Town have extended their unbeaten record in the Eastern Counties D1 to nine games following their 1 - 0 result against Downham Town.

With much of the season gone The Tangerines find themselves sitting comfortably in the top half of the league - a position the bookmakers firmly expected them to claim back in preseason.

Having put in some excellent displays in recent matches, the team and its fans still hold out hope of being involved further up the table.

I actually came out and said in a press release earlier in the week that we can take promotion if we keep on form..the fan base and a couple of the players did not like that, but I will always choose that response especially when I only sit 4 points back from 1st.

Herne Bay made the offer to Allen who had called to notify me he was going to take it when he asked me to hold on....he popped back onto the phone and Great Yarmouth has made an 11th hour offer to him and he is debating...he asked my advice and I told him I would feel better with him at Herne Bay than Yarmouth...But I honestly told him I would love it if he stuck around and if he did, I would ink him for another year.

Our next match we travel to play Brantham Ath, a week out.

[MacroGuru]

December dates to remember...

Assistant coach Phil Walker has reminded you of some important dates in the month ahead:

5.12.2009 - Diss Under 18s v Mildenhall Under 18s
5.12.2009 - Brantham Ath v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)
12.12.2009 - Diss v Team Bury (Eastern Counties D1)
19.12.2009 - Diss Under 18s v Thetford Under 18s
26.12.2009 - Wisbech Under 18s v Diss Under 18s
26.12.2009 - Diss v Clacton (Eastern Counties D1)

Looks like we have a 14 day break in there, I might have to schedule a friendly or rest the boys...they have rightfully earned it so far.

Gorleston's striker Jamie Lambert has wowed the fans at Emerald Park this month with his impressive performances and has duly won the Eastern Counties D1 Player of the Month.

The 27 year old striker has been excellent, scoring an impressive three goals in four appearances.

Diss' Jason Houghton came in just behind Lambert in second place with Ed Williams of Cornard Utd rounding off the top three.

If Houghton would have played more in the last couple of matches I think he would have taken the player of the month award but bringing Drummond in put Houghton to the bench, which he is fine with...I hope so, knowing he was close to this award might piss him off some.

Again I am overlooked for the Manager of the Month award...I don't know what I am going to have to do in order to earn it, but as long as we keep winning I will keep smiling.

[MacroGuru]

We are picked to win the match and easily. based upon the pre-match report from Phil we should dominate the game...to me all the formula to drop this one on the road.

Andy Matthews is our ref and he hasn't called an EC1 game yet.

The 3-4-3 is what we will play and French will be in between the posts for us.

Tangerines made to rue missed chances
Brantham Athletic 1 - 0 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

After appearing to just have the edge in this hard-fought battle, Diss Town's players and fans will be very disappointed to have lost 1 - 0 to a Brantham Athletic team they consider to be their equal.

Brantham Ath finally took the lead when striker Darren Hope scored a real poacher's effort in the 54th minute. Striker Carl Thompson's red card for ungentlemanly conduct in the 75th minute put Brantham Ath's position under question.

Diss may well look back on the number of shots they took from long range and rue their decisions, as they often proved wasteful.

Attendance: 78

That is right, they lost a man in the 75th minute and we couldn't score...it's not that they shut us down, we just couldn't get a shot.

I can't say much, just that I am disgusted by this loss and snapping our streak.

The one piece of good news was given to me after the match, when Chris Allen pulled me aside and informed me if I was serious about him staying he will, and he called and let everyone know that he is sticking with Diss.

Next up, Team Bury a week out.

[MacroGuru]

When I took over the assistant Johnny Dormer was decent but I let him go, had to put my touch on this team. Well he just accepted the head spot at Bacup Borough which is a division ahead of us.

We are still sitting at 4th, my goal is to at least hit the 2 spot and get the playoff chance to promote, because I feel we can win.

[MacroGuru]

Another game where we are picked and our injuries and illnesses are mounting on key players

Defender Matty Hemsley is out with a cold
Tom Botley is recovering from a rib injury
Paddy Mumbley is still out from his Torn Hammy

Thats a starting Defender and 2 starting MF's out...the new guys signed have yet to mesh with the team.

Team Bury win battle of Brewers Green Lane
Diss Town 0 - 1 Team Bury FC (Eastern Counties D1)

Team Bury FC battled their way to a 1 - 0 victory in this evenly-matched contest between two hard-working teams.

Team Bury finally took the lead when midfielder James Sheridan scored an effort from the edge of the area in the 56th minute.

Diss were often prevented from playing as they wanted to due to the number of fouls committed by their enthusiastic opponents

Attendance: 183

Yeah, that's right we lose again. Our forwards can not hit the broadside of a barn. I tell them I am dissappointed, they did not play like I think they could.

That settles it...I am now going to spend the next 14 days off trying to find us a forward or two that is willing to put the ball into the net.

[MacroGuru]

I have two offers out to a few forwards that have expiring contracts and are on the transfer list. They are both being paid weekly but are in reserve roles I am hoping me promising them key player roles will help them choose us.

The other thing, Allen is continuing to be courted by other teams...they keep calling to the point I think it is a distraction for him, but I see why in a couple of days as he calls me and tells me he is heading to Stansted a team that is fighting for promotion out of Division 9.

My being depressed did not last long as we were able to get both of our signings with our strikers the most important was bringing Jason Lee down to us, he was playing in the reserves for Corby a team in the Blue Square North. He is an old fart at 38, as is the other signing Leo Fortunate-West.

I think they will help us out immediately and if we can get scores from them in the 1st half and bring in the youth to rest them in the 2nd, I think we will do well.

[MacroGuru]

We will be debuting our two new forwards Leo and Jason, and because of the injuries and illnesses to the mid, I am going to run a 3-4-3 diamond for this match. It allows me to play a deep attacking group as well as a deep defending group. I know I am chancing giving up possession but if I can get control of the defense and the attack here we should win.

Diss Town 3 - 1 FC Clacton (Eastern Counties D1)

A sturdy defense and a battling midfield display were the foundations upon which Diss Town built their 3 - 1 victory over FC Clacton this afternoon.

Diss finally took the lead when midfielder Alex Brock scored a close range effort in the 72nd minute. Young winger Ricky Abbey then equalized for Clacton in the 75th minute with a close range header. An error from Matt Smith allowed centre-back Matty Hemsley to score a well timed close range finish.

The Diss fans might have been forgiven for thinking that their team would be happy with just the winner but the scoring wasn't over. Veteran striker Leo Fortune-West completed the scoring for Diss with a real poacher's effort in the 90th minute.

Attendance: 171

Wow! Leo came in and showed me why we went after him and that he does still have it in him.

Both of the new guys picked up multiple man markings all game long and still had great runs, but it also brought out the positive of Robbie Harris, who was able to exploit the gaps and get several shots off, one of these days they will go in and his confidence will take off.

Alex Brock impressed during Diss' 3 - 1 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Clacton this afternoon, according to the Diss Soccer Informer.

Brock put in an impressive performance for Diss and his goal will have been the icing on the cake for the central midfielder.

Brock has featured on a regular basis for the Diss first team so far this season, making twenty-two appearances.

We could have split it between one of the 3 but Brock played solid.

With the win we still sit at 4th place, 5 points behind 2nd place. We play Cornard Utd in a week and then have a chance to redeem ourselves against Gorleston the week after and honestly....I am thinking a game ahead here.

[MacroGuru]

Our January schedule...

Assistant coach Phil Walker has reminded you of some important dates in the month ahead:

2.1.2010 - Cornard Utd v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)
6.1.2010 - Diss v Gorleston (Eastern Counties D1)
9.1.2010 - Diss Under 18s v Boston Utd Under 18s
9.1.2010 - Diss v Thetford (Norfolk Senior Cup)
16.1.2010 - Walsham-le-Willows Under 18s v Diss Under 18s
16.1.2010 - Fakenham v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)
23.1.2010 - Diss v Whitton (Eastern Counties D1)
30.1.2010 - Diss Under 18s v Bury Town Under 18s
30.1.2010 - Diss v Great Yarmouth (Eastern Counties D1)

January has become a very important month for us and now we have teams from up high trying to poach our talent. It looks like our 30 yr old CD Danny Tillbury who has been stalwart for us is thinking of making a move to get paid to play.

[BYU 14]

Originally Posted by MacroGuru

Our January schedule...

Assistant coach Phil Walker has reminded you of some important dates in the month ahead:


January has become a very important month for us and now we have teams from up high trying to poach our talent. It looks like our 30 yr old CD Danny Tillbury who has been stalwart for us is thinking of making a move to get paid to play.

Damn, I would kill for that schedule, lol.

You are on a good roll, so you may lose a couple of players, but that's a testament to your coaching skills

[MacroGuru]

Originally Posted by BYU 14

Damn, I would kill for that schedule, lol.

You are on a good roll, so you may lose a couple of players, but that's a testament to your coaching skills

For the schedule that is simple....lose your cup matches...LOL...

I know being on the roll helps but it definitely makes playing this game a lot harder, I hate it, yet love it all wrapped up into one...

[BYU 14]

Originally Posted by MacroGuru

For the schedule that is simple....lose your cup matches...LOL...

I know being on the roll helps but it definitely makes playing this game a lot harder, I hate it, yet love it all wrapped up into one...

I hear you, I have to catch up on my dynasty postings because the game is so addictive that instead of writing up as I went (which I did when I started) I got into the mindset of OK I'll sim one more match, oh wait my first Cambridgeshire Cup match, I'll just sim that one too.

Next thing you know I am friggin two months ahead of my write-ups and wondering how the hell that happened?

This 10 league mod is the best addition ever to FM IMO. It makes the game even more immersive, challenging and really ramps up the fun factor of an already great game.

[MacroGuru]

Picked as favorites and told to mark their one forward Lund tightly as he is their main man. We also play this game without Tillbury as he accepted an offer to step up a level to play soccer.

We start out running a 4-3-3, I figure I can give up possession but with Lee and Fortunate-West up front we should do just fine.

Diss fortunate to beat Cornard Utd
Cornard United 0 - 1 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town recorded a somewhat fortuitous win over Cornard United on a fine afternoon at Blackhouse Lane.

Hemsley had no trouble in scoring from the spot when Hodges gave up a penalty. Then followed controversy as Diss were denied claims by young midfielder Josh Clover for a penalty.

Diss were carved open a number of times but despite the ability of their opponents to create chances, they struggled to put them away.

Attendance: 162

This game had disaster written on it from the outset...Lund was amazing..but what sucked even more was the following:

Gary Lewin has reported that striker Jason Lee has suffered strained knee ligaments after twisting sharply during the match against Cornard Utd.

Lewin advises you that Lee will be treated at the club. It is likely that Lee will be out for between 5 weeks and 6 weeks while he is treated.

Gary Lewin has reported that Leo Fortune-West has suffered a groin strain after the striker attempted a sprint during the match against Cornard Utd.

Lewin advises you that a groin strain can either be treated by the club's physio or managed by injections.

Injections: Will get through the next game against Gorleston but could then be out for between 3 weeks and 4 weeks.
Physio: Out for between 2 weeks and 3 weeks.

Fortune-West will shortly be given a course of painkilling injections to get him through the club's next match.

I lost both strikers in the first half against this team to injury the week before we play #1 Gorleston.

Lee is gone, but I went the injection route for Fortunate-West and hit the market immediately for a replacement or two. To say this was devastating is an understatement. I try to keep an upbeat approach and say it is not that Lee's injury is not that serious and we will survive and it only ticked Lee of.

We now sit at 3rd place with 34 points, only 3 points behind March and 5 points behind Gorleston. With our match coming up against Gorleston actually determining whether or not we can take 1st or even 2nd for the season.

[MacroGuru]

Well this is one of the times I am going to listen to my assistant coach and made some tactical changes based on how Gorleston plays..

Normally, I like a quick tempo game, bringing the defense up, playing a wide field and Phil told me we would be playing right into their hands by it.

So, I lower the tempo, exploit the middle and bring our defense line back, let's hope this works.

Diss take their chances
Diss Town 4 - 1 Gorleston (Eastern Counties D1)

Gorleston succumbed to a 4 - 1 loss in this evening's English Eastern Counties League Division One clash at Brewers Green Lane. The highlight of the game was undoubtedly a superb hat trick from Diss' Ryan Harrison.

Young midfielder Daniel Smith got Diss off to a flying start by scoring an effort from the edge of the area in the 9th minute. Striker Sam Thompson then equalized for Gorleston in the 32nd minute with a real poacher's effort. An error from Terry Pratley allowed striker Ryan Harrison to score a beautiful chip.

Harrison added his 2nd goal of the game with a good header from just inside the six yard box in the 58th minute. Harrison scored from the penalty spot after Lambert gave away a penalty.

Attendance: 160

Well, those chances proved correct! What an amazing game by Ryan Harrison, I had him benched and have been playing Higgs and Harris ahead of him with Jason and Leo signed..but I have always played Ryan off the bench, looks like he has earned the next start.

As Gorleston started pushing the attack I noticed we were pressing up more so at half I ordered us to always press up on their man when they hit the zone and it really confused them, in all of our game films they had never seen us do this and it knocked them out of the element.

Harrison puts in classy performance for Diss

Ryan Harrison was one of the players to make a difference during Diss' convincing 4 - 1 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Gorleston this evening in a match where Diss Town showed a cutting edge.

The Gorleston defense could not cope with Harrison's finishing, as he bagged three goals for The Tangerines.

Harrison currently has 6 months remaining on his $0 p/w deal at Brewers Green Lane.

Harrison deserved the Man of the Match and he helped place us right where I want us to be, sitting at 3rd with 37 points tied with March (Whom we have beat) that sit at 2nd.

Our next match is the Norfolk County Senior Cup at home against Thetford.

[MacroGuru]

We were able to get a talented striker out on the market to take Lee's spot for at least the next 6 weeks. Anthony Robinson, graded as our 4th best striker but with Leo and Jason out he becomes our 2nd, I think everyone is thinking Robbie Harris is our best but he is just not showing the change, potential and talent that Ryan Harrison is.

We come out in a 4-4-2 against Thetford due to the fact of our injuries up front but also because Phil thinks that we can exploit one of their weaknesses here.

Dominant win for Tangerines
Diss Town 4 - 0 Thetford Town (Norfolk Senior Cup Qtr Final)

In what had been billed as a close encounter, Thetford Town were trounced 4 - 0 by Diss Town at Brewers Green Lane.

Things did not get off to a good start for Thetford as striker Ryan Harrison seized on an error by Neil Haddow to score a well executed finish. An error from Neil Haddow allowed midfielder Alex Brock to score an effort from the edge of the area. Robinson scored with an effort from the edge of the area in the 57th minute to extend the lead further.

Young midfielder Josh Clover completed the rout with a real poacher's effort in the 77th minute.

Attendance: 144

Wow...what a display by our boys today! And honestly, this could have been a lot higher...Harrison missed 2 headers from a corner and Higgs sent one just over the crossbar.

Anthony Robinson introduced himself in style to everyone else...

A display of attacking soccer saw Josh Clover pick up the man of the match award during Diss' convincing 4 - 0 Norfolk County FA Senior Cup Quarter Final victory over Thetford this afternoon.

Clover looked in sharp for Diss and his goal capped a very promising performance for the youngster.

The ex-Braintree player signed for Eastern Counties D1 side Diss on a free transfer in 2009.

Clover was masterful at his passing and leading our scorers just perfectly and then to have him come in and cap one just solidified the day for me and for him.


And now some thoughts here..

I have been brutal to one of the veteran defenders who just doesn't fit in with my philosophy of running the 3-4-3 he does not play defense in the spots I need him to and I can't afford to waste valuable time for him to train there...so I have had him on the market, no one is wanting him and I don't know if it is because I am not giving him squad time or not, but he is happy to be here. Before this match I removed him from the list and inserted him into the lineup at the right wing back and he played amazing for us.

Steve Higgs our young talented striker is becoming a bit of a pain for me...he is complaining about the workload on training, he isn't meshing with the squad and at times his play on the field borderlines on the selfish..I may put him out on the transfer market.

Michael Reeves was transfer listed and offered to all the clubs I had 45 offers that came in and were accepted, we will see who he signs with...most of them were Division 9 clubs.

Our next match is an EC1 match against Fakenham 7 days away, enough for the boys to get some rest...I also toned down the training a bit.

March picked up a win in league play today propelling them to 1st with 40 points, Gorleston is now 2nd with 39 and we sit at 3rd with 37.

[MacroGuru]

We drew Stalham Town for our Semi-Final match in the Norfolk Senior cup.

And our weekly injury update:

Gary Lewin has reported that there are still a few injury problems persisting within the Diss Town squad.

Leo Fortune-West (groin strain) and Paddy Mumbley (torn hamstring) are still a couple of weeks away from returning to full training and the English Eastern Counties League Division One match against Great Yarmouth on Saturday 30th January could be considered a realistic target for a possible return.

Jason Lee (strained knee ligaments) is our only long-term injury and it will still be a while before we can think about setting a realistic return date for him.

Michael Reeves finally decided at where he wanted to end up, East Thurrock, a team in the Isthmian League 1st Division North (Basically a Div 8 squad, and he is getting paid to play...$30 a week, $15 bonus per appearance, $3 bonus per goal.

The kid is happy, left with good words for our club and we are excited for him. Our fans on the other hand...were quite pissed at him.

[MacroGuru]

Well I think this one has ominous signs written all over it, any tactic I decide on Phil Walker tells me the Fakenham is great against teams that play it...LOL...so they are perfect.

Running the 3-4-3 here to play to our strengths.

Diss powerless to resist as Fakenham dominate
Fakenham Town 3 - 0 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town were on the end of a deserved defeat at Clipbush Lane as they were completely outplayed by their opponents. Two goals from Adie Hayes helped Fakenham to victory.

The match began in controversial circumstances as Fakenham were denied claims by Craig Leigh for a penalty. Hayes scored from the penalty spot after Greene gave away a penalty. Hayes was able to keep his composure to score from the spot after Smith gave away a penalty. An error from Anthony Robinson allowed striker Neil Pettinger to score a powerful effort from the edge of the area.

Attendance: 167

Craig Leigh is an ass, he bitched and moaned at the ref all game long and he finally got his way...Hayes 2 goals were both PK's one of them was a result of an offside play on their part.

I give this win not to Fakenham but to the Ref...and I let it be known in the post match presser.

We still sit at 3rd with 37 points and 2 points behind Gorleston but Ipswich pulled a draw and is now tied with us in points.

Our next match is at home against Whitton.

[MacroGuru]

We are now entering our return games for the league and we lost our first match to Whitton just as we were starting out.

We get Leo back for the match but Lose reservist Paul Emery on a Free Transfer, he requested it.

Going with the 3-4-3, playing a high defensive line, slow tempo game based upon the suggestions of Phil Walker.

Quality of possession provides victory
Diss Town 2 - 0 Whitton United (Eastern Counties D1)

An efficient performance from Diss earned them a 2 - 0 win over Whitton United at Brewers Green Lane.

The match began in controversy with Diss seeing a goal disallowed in controversial circumstances. Striker Ryan Harrison gave Diss the lead with a real poacher's effort in the 27th minute.

Harrison completed the scoring for Diss with a close range header in the 45th minute.

Attendance: 175

Harrison is beginning to create a man crush for me with the way he is playing....however he and Kieran both took injuries this match with Harrison taking the worst of it.

Gary Lewin has reported that striker Ryan Harrison has sustained fractured ribs following a collision with Mark McManus during the game against Whitton.

Lewin advises you that Harrison will be treated at the club. It is likely that Harrison will be out for around 4 weeks while he is treated.

Gary Lewin has reported that central defender Kieran Drummond has suffered a bruised thigh after a late tackle during the match against Whitton.

Lewin advises you that Drummond will be treated at the club. It is likely that Drummond will be out for between 4 days and 5 days while he is treated.

However, the MoM goes to no other than Ryan Harrison...

A display of attacking soccer saw Ryan Harrison pick up the man of the match award during Diss' 2 - 0 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Whitton this afternoon.

Harrison had the quality to put the Whitton United defense to the sword and finished the match with two goals.

Harrison currently has 5 months remaining on his $0 p/w deal at Brewers Green Lane.

We now sit at my target spot of 2nd place with 40 points while March sits at 1st with 46. My entire goal here is to hold on to this position and keep it, I know it is going to be tough with the injuries but the boys have proven that they can compete with the best of this league...sign in point was our earlier win of March.

Our next match is at home against Great Yarmouth.

[MacroGuru]

I feel I am going to be spoiled and won't find an equal when/if I lose Phil Walker, but he guides me again in this match.

We are sticking with the 3-4-3, Quick Tempo, Wide Field, Deep Defense against Great Yarmouth.

Diss in control as Bloaters are brushed aside
Diss Town 1 - 0 Great Yarmouth Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town battled to a deserved 1 - 0 victory over Great Yarmouth Town on a fine afternoon in their English Eastern Counties League Division One game at Brewers Green Lane.

Centre-back Kieran Drummond gave Diss the lead with a good header from just inside the six yard box in the 37th minute. Great Yarmouth's Dale Breach received the red card for a professional foul with 75 minutes on the clock.

Diss had a number of attempts at goal but their profligacy meant they didn't score as many as they maybe would have liked.

Attendance: 172

Kieran had an amazing header but you could see as he pushed off for it his knee twisted weird, the goal went in but Kieran stayed down, grabbing at his knee.

The physio report on him...

Gary Lewin has reported that Kieran Drummond has sustained a twisted knee after turning awkwardly during the match against Great Yarmouth.

Lewin advises you that Drummond will be treated at the club. It is likely that Drummond will be out for between 12 days and 2 weeks while he is treated.

And it wasn't to hard to determine who the Man of the Match was.

Kieran Drummond had a fine game this afternoon during Diss' 1 - 0 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Great Yarmouth but it was a tight match that could really have gone either way.

The Diss central defender enjoyed a good game for his team and more than deserved his goal.

Drummond is a new signing at Brewers Green Lane, having joined from injury-ravaged Bugbrooke in November.

The win gets us 3 points and sets us only 3 points behind March and we take a 3 point step ahead of Ipswich for 2nd place.

Ipswich is our next match 7 days out.

[MacroGuru]

February is now here and I am handed this by my assistant.

Assistant coach Phil Walker has reminded you of some important dates in the month ahead:

6.2.2010 - Fakenham Under 18s v Diss Under 18s
6.2.2010 - Ipswich Wanderers v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)
10.2.2010 - Stowmarket v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)
13.2.2010 - Stalham T v Diss (Norfolk Senior Cup)
20.2.2010 - Dereham Under 18s v Diss Under 18s
20.2.2010 - Diss v Halstead (Eastern Counties D1)
27.2.2010 - Holbeach Under 18s v Diss Under 18s
27.2.2010 - Swaffham v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)

Ipswich and Stalham will be definite top important games for us this month, but every win we achieve places us that much closer towards promotion.

Thetford Town's centre-back James Cairns has wowed the fans at The Recreation Ground this month with his impressive performances and has duly won the Eastern Counties D1 Player of the Month.

While it isn't really the centre-back's job to score goals, the three he tucked away this month have helped his club immeasurably.

Godmanchester's Stuart Flood came in just behind Cairns in second place with Ryan Harrison of Diss rounding off the top three.

I truly feel that Harrison deserved the award with his play for the past month.

March Town United's David Wiles has won the Eastern Counties D1 Manager of the Month award.

The award was made after the Marchingmen boss led his team to three league victories in their last four games.

(EC1) March 1 - 1 Stowmarket (2nd Jan)
(EC1) March 4 - 0 Halstead (9th Jan)
(EC1) March 1 - 0 Swaffham (16th Jan)
(EC1) March 2 - 0 Long Melford (23rd Jan)

There was nothing to choose between the top three and the award could easily have gone to either Brantham Ath's Martin Cooke or Lee Relish from Saffron Walden, who came second and third respectively.

Honestly what do I have to do to even get consideration for the manager of the month...Is it a nationality bias they have against me here? Do they hate the Diss Club? Or were we supposed to be this good.

[MacroGuru]

The weekly injury update is provided and I am torn in how I should react..

I am happy because Paddy Mumbley is now back to full training...

Mumbley resumes full training
Paddy Mumbley has returned to full training following his thigh injury.

The central midfielder had been out for 3 months after sustaining the injury.

The ex-Liversedge player signed for high-flying Diss on a free transfer in 2009.

Yet disheartened because of the 3 players injured and their length..

Gary Lewin has reported that there are still a few injury problems persisting within the Diss Town squad.

Jason Lee (strained knee ligaments), Ryan Harrison (fractured ribs) and Kieran Drummond (twisted knee) are still a couple of weeks away from returning to full training and the English Eastern Counties League Division One match against Halstead on Saturday 20th February could be considered a realistic target for a possible return.

[MacroGuru]

Setting up a 3-4-3, High Line, Slow tempo, narrow field based upon the discussion with Phil Walker.

However the ref appears to be influenced by the crowds and home field as he has called a penalty on the away team in almost every game he has called.

Diss' poor performance adds to disappointing defeat
Ipswich Wanderers 1 - 0 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Ipswich Wanderers' fans left Humber Doucy Lane wondering quite how their team had only managed to win 1 - 0.

When Harris gave away a penalty, Wright confidently stepped up to score the opportunity.

Diss were carved open a number of times but despite the ability of their opponents to create chances, they struggled to put them away.

Attendance: 195

We were not carved like the Diss Town informer says...their only shots came from beyond the box and just at the top, the damn ref had some home cooking going on as he called a Penalty on Robbie Harris who wasn't even near the guy who dove and ended up getting a penalty.

I was furious and probably shouldn't have said a few things I did in the press conference because the email came down a few days later.

Diss head coach Dennis Thomas has been warned by the Football Association for his comments following Diss' 0 - 1 English Eastern Counties League Division One defeat against Ipswich Wanderers.

Dennis had reacted angrily to Ipswich Wanderers being awarded a controversial penalty.

So this puts us in a bind...two losses to Ipswich we are tied with them in points knocks us down to 3rd place. We have to win and gain the point advantage over Ipswich because a tie concedes 2nd place to them.

We play Stowmarket four days from now and Stalham Town in the Norfolk Senior Cup a week from now, all on the road...some tired players after this next week.

[MacroGuru]

A brief weekly update before heading into our next match..

I received a letter that Cameroon was looking for a new head coach and I though hell why not apply, I know I am a long shot for it, but it would definitely be awesome coaching a national club.

Gary Lewin the Physio provides an update for me...

Gary Lewin has reported that there are still a few injury problems persisting within the Diss Town squad.

Jason Lee (strained knee ligaments) and Kieran Drummond (twisted knee) are close to a return to full fitness and should soon be available for selection.

Ryan Harrison (fractured ribs) is still a couple of weeks away from returning to full training and the English Eastern Counties League Division One match against Swaffham on Saturday 27th February could be considered a realistic target for a possible return.

Getting Lee and Drummond back soon would be a major blessing for us, I need Harrison back because he is going to be awesome for us as a sub and a 4th attack if I ever need one.

They will probably be back in time for Cup play...

[MacroGuru]

Still running the 3-4-3, we are bringing Paddy Mumbley back in to start.

Tangerines made to rue missed chances
Stowmarket Town 1 - 0 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

After appearing to just have the edge in this hard-fought battle, Diss Town's players and fans will be very disappointed to have lost 1 - 0 to a Stowmarket Town team they consider to be their equal.

Striker John Lewis gave Stowmarket the lead with a placed shot from close range in the 29th minute.

Diss were often prevented from playing as they wanted to due to the number of fouls committed by their enthusiastic opponents

Attendance: 144

Honestly, I have to say this game was well played on our end and Stowmarket just matched us run by run. However the goal did come in on a play that was close to offsides, I will have to look at the game film and see if I have a grievance to file. With the amount of Yellow cards and offsides we get called while the other side doesn't I am beginning to think the ref's do not like me.

We have our cup match in 3 days against Stalham Town and we should have all players back for this match, whether they are in playing shape will be a different story.

[MacroGuru]

We are picked as favorites to win and we also get Drummond and Lee back for this game, I figure I play them for the 1st half and rotate subs in at the half.

Going with our 3-4-3. High Defensive Line, Wide field, quick tempo play like we normally do.

Victory doesn't hide awful display from Diss
Stalham Town 0 - 1 Diss Town (Norfolk Senior Cup Semi Final)

A 1 - 0 win over Stalham Town was all a distinctly off-colour Diss Town could manage in their Norfolk County FA Senior Cup Semi Final game at Stalham T Stadium.

An error from Sam Byrne allowed veteran striker Leo Fortune-West to score a real poacher's effort. Then followed controversy as Diss were denied claims by forward Robbie Harris for a penalty.

Diss were often prevented from playing as they wanted to due to the number of fouls committed by their enthusiastic opponents

Attendance: 61

Wow, they do not pull any punches...but I did not see them out on the worst pitch possible in the worst weather possible playing this match.

We made it to the Final of the Norfolk County Senior Cup! The boys are excited and know that it will bring some cash to the club and maybe pay for a team dinner or a night at the pub.

We finally get a home game in a week against Halstead. Meanwhile we still sit at 3rd tied in points at 43 with Ipswich.

[MacroGuru]

The midweek news was kind of fun...

We play Swaffham in the Norfolk County Senior Cup final...

My application for the position of Cameroon HC was unsuccessful

and

Gary Lewin our Physio informed me that Ryan Harrison is close to full recovery.

[MacroGuru]

This is a must draw or win game for us. Zero points is not an option for us right now.

3-4-3, Quick Tempo, Wide Field, Deep Defensive Line for this match.

Honors even at Brewers Green Lane
Diss Town 2 - 2 Halstead Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town were held to a draw by Halstead Town in a close-fought Eastern Counties D1 match played at Brewers Green Lane.

Striker Terry Campbell got Halstead off to a flying start by scoring a fine header from pointblank range in the 2nd minute. Campbell doubled Halstead's lead with a real poacher's effort in the 16th minute. An error from Nick Paul allowed striker Anthony Robinson to score a real poacher's effort. Diss' equalizer came through Elliot Greene as he seized on David Hedges' mistake to score a penalty.

Attendance: 184

Looks like the boys are starting to get complacent and cocky...they were owned in the 1st half...

The second half is where we came back after I tore into them in the locker room. The fans have to be pissed at this, Halsted is in 17th place and we played down to their level.

The one positive in this match:

The relief on Anthony Robinson's face was plain to see as the Diss Town striker ended his goal drought at Brewers Green Lane on Saturday.

Robinson had previously played over ten hours of competitive soccer without a goal before his 59th minute strike against Halstead Town.

That was a long time to go without scoring for us.

Our next match is away in a week against Swaffham. We have to win this match, right now we sit at 3rd with 44 points tied in points with Ipswich and Thetford now.

[MacroGuru]

Well, Simon Smith our veteran central defender who has squat for talent and was a captain played the card of play me or else and I removed his captaincy and sent him packing with a free transfer. I do not care if it pisses the fan base off or the players he was beginning to bitch and moan to the press and they started asking me questions about it.

We promoted young central defender Phil Day to the squad as a rotating defender, he will be more useful than Simon was.

As for our match against Swaffham, we will stick with our 3-4-3, Quick Tempo, Wide play, high defensive line play as usual. However we are going to put Nick French in at GK as Cobb is having some issues.

Pedlars beaten despite domination
Swaffham Town 0 - 3 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Experts are still wondering quite how Diss Town ended up 3 - 0 victors over Swaffham Town after a game in which their opponents almost totally dominated.

Veteran striker Leo Fortune-West gave Diss the lead with a good header from just inside the six yard box in the 13th minute. An error from Bobby Latham allowed veteran striker Jason Lee to score a close range effort. Diss captain Kieran Drummond completed the rout with a close range header in the 60th minute.

Attendance: 114

I do not know what domination he means. They had possession advantage which meant they should have won right, but every time we got the ball we were running towards goal and forcing their keeper or defender to get it out for a corner or a throw in on their end.

All three of our veterans got involved today, including Lee who had a knock when he scored his goal.

Kieran Drummond impressed during Diss' convincing 3 - 0 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Swaffham this afternoon, according to the Diss Soccer Informer.

The Diss central defender enjoyed a good game for his team and more than deserved his goal.

Drummond has made fifteen appearances so far this season for The Tangerines, scoring three goals.

Kieran deserved the MoM, he was all over the pitch stopping balls, marking their star striker whenever he made a run and then the goal was just the icing on the cake for this one.

Diss Town have beaten Swaffham Town 3 - 0 to record their first win in the Eastern Counties D1 for four games.

The Tangerines' vital win ended their terrible run and renewed the fans' belief that this could be their year.

Having endured such a long run without a win, the team expected to do little better than break into the top half this season now look a good bet to be playing at a higher level next season.

This win was truly needed as it placed us in second still tied with Ipswich at 47 points.

Our next match is at home in a week against Long Melford.

[MacroGuru]

We have rolled into March and we now have some important dates coming from Phil...

Assistant coach Phil Walker has reminded you of some important dates in the month ahead:

6.3.2010 - Diss v Long Melford (Eastern Counties D1)
13.3.2010 - Diss Under 18s v Ely Under 18s
13.3.2010 - Saffron Walden v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)
20.3.2010 - Diss Under 18s v Thrapston Under 18s
20.3.2010 - Diss v March (Eastern Counties D1)
27.3.2010 - Downham v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)

Well, obviously each match is important but the biggest I think this month is the one on the 20th versus March...I think that will be for the league title...if I can, I would prefer an Auto-promotion vs a playoff match.

Again we have a player in the top 3 of the month but not getting the selection and honestly this past month we stunk it up so I did not deserve any kind of thought for an award.

Daventry have offered a contract to Leo Fortune-West.

Interest in Fortune-West is thought to be high, with Moneyfields, Great Yarmouth, Hadleigh and Kentish Town among the clubs rumored to be looking at the player.

Winning and playing well tends to be a double edged sword down here...since all the players are on an amateur contract they can come and go as they please and right now, Leo is being wined and dined from a team a division higher.

[MacroGuru]

After we heard the offers were coming in, we sat down and offered a longer contract to Leo and he said he is sticking with us, we will see.

Entering the game we will be running a 3-4-3, Slow Tempo, Normal width, High defensive line game.

Diss in control as Villagers are brushed aside
Diss Town 1 - 0 Long Melford (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town battled to a deserved 1 - 0 victory over Long Melford on a fine spring afternoon in their English Eastern Counties League Division One game at Brewers Green Lane.

An error from Ollie Dowson allowed striker Anthony Robinson to score a real poacher's effort.

Diss were often prevented from playing as they wanted to due to the number of fouls committed by their enthusiastic opponents

Attendance: 169

We are getting to the point the only way to stop Lee, Fortunate-West and Robinson is foul them because they run and run...and Skelton up front in an AM role, and it's even better.

Phil Skelton had a fine game this afternoon during Diss' 1 - 0 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Long Melford but it was a tight match that could really have gone either way.

Skelton looked a constant threat to the Long Melford defense and his assist was no more than the attacking midfielder deserved for his persistence.

The ex-Haverhill player signed for Eastern Counties D1 team Diss on a free transfer in 2009.

Skelton got the assist and set up several runs deserving the MoM award for the game.

Our next match is away against Saffron Walden in a week.

Capturing the 3 points puts us in at 2nd place with 50 points, Ipswich is at 3rd with 47 and March is at 1st with 51 points.....Right now we are only 1 point away from 1st...It's going to be a fun March!

[MacroGuru]

A game we are picked to be the underdogs in...

We approach it with a 4-4-2 based upon Phil's suggestion.

Diss lucky to draw
Saffron Walden Town 1 - 1 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Following their 1 - 1 draw with Saffron Walden Town at The Meadows, an ex-Diss player claimed that his former team must improve if they are to succeed this season.

Veteran striker Leo Fortune-West gave Diss the lead with a placed shot in the 16th minute. With Saffron Walden staring at defeat, there was controversy as winger David Arnold then had a penalty shot turned down.

With time rapidly running out however, striker Oliver Flynn then scored a fine header from pointblank range to equalize for Saffron Walden. Better late than never for Saffron Walden and the fans were clearly delighted with Flynn's impact.

Attendance: 150

We weren't lucky to draw, Saffron was lucky to put that one in when they did. It pissed me off to no end and I think the players knew I was pissed. They took it in stride though. I hate the 4-4-2 and I honestly do not think I will run it, even if Phil thinks it is a good idea.

Diss Town have extended their unbeaten record in the Eastern Counties D1 to four games following their 1 - 1 result against Saffron Walden Town.

With the league season reaching its climax, The Tangerines are on course for promotion, reinforcing their credentials with some tremendous recent displays.

Despite being picked to finish little better than the middle of the standings back in preseason, Dennis' men look set to defy these predictions by featuring strongly in the end-of-season run-in.

And we sit at 51 points while March has 54...meaning a win next week will tie us for 1st and a loss will force us to lock on to the 2nd place spot and hold onto it for dear life. The most important game of the season is now here.

[MacroGuru]

We picked up a top notch Keeper that is supposed to be twice the player our current keeper is. Not wanting to disrespect Cobb I delayed the signing for a week.

Here we are picked to win but according to Phil outclassed tactically through the entire match.

The two teams have traded barbs all week through the press and this game is getting billed as one of the top matches of the season.

We are coming in with our 3-4-3 Normal defensive line depth, slow tempo and a narrow field.

Honors even at Brewers Green Lane
Diss Town 2 - 2 March Town United (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town were held to a draw by March Town United in a close-fought Eastern Counties D1 match played at Brewers Green Lane.

Veteran striker Jason Lee gave Diss the lead with a placed shot in the 21st minute. Winger James Townsend then equalized for March in the 24th minute with a close range header.

Striker Anthony Robinson put the home team in front in the 52nd minute with a well timed close range finish. March's equalizer came through Robert Hughes as he seized on Jason Houghton's mistake to score a screamer from the edge of the area.

Attendance: 232

Well we should have had this match won however, every time we scored they came right back and matched us. We had the possession advantage for the match they had the speed advantage it was definitely a good thing we slowed the pace of the match up.

We are still 3 points back of March, 3 points ahead of Gorleston and needing to hold on to the 2nd place spot for the rest of the season. Our next match is a week away against Downham.

[Coffee Warlord]

Originally Posted by SirFozzie

Diss Town?

Are your rivals Dat Town?

In a couple years, Diss Town and Dat Town will merge squads, to make Dose Towns United FC.

[MacroGuru]

I have been getting email notifications and phone calls from people about the offers flying into Leo Fortunate-West, I have told him we would love to keep him and have him but there is no way I can pay him the club doesn't have the budget. I assigned him a tutoring spot and he was excited with it...let's see if that keeps him grounded here.

We are picked as favorites heading into the match where we will run our 3-4-3, Quick Tempo, Wide Field, High D line....we have the new keeper but he will not get the start, Cobb still gets it.

Downham hold out for draw
Downham Town 1 - 1 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

After a 1 - 1 draw at Memorial Field against Diss Town, a key member of Downham Town claimed that his team were fortunate to escape from this English Eastern Counties League Division One game with a draw.

An error from Mark Gilfillan allowed striker Anthony Robinson to score a real poacher's effort. Striker Richard Holland equalized for Downham in the 74th minute with a fine header from pointblank range.

Attendance: 174

I am starting to believe in home cooking for the refs here in the EC1. This pitch was the most water logged and destroyed I have ever been on. Guys were falling down just trying to get footing while the ball was taking awkward angles at times.

I am slightly disappointed we weren't able to capture three points here but at least getting a point does help.

We sit at 2nd, 2 points ahead of Gorleston and there are only 4 league games left. We have to secure 3 points from at least 2 of the games and we definitely can not lose.

We play in a week against Godmanchester at their place.

[MacroGuru]

I am livid, Leo Fortunate-West was a two faced dog. He went and signed with Arundel a team facing relegation for $30 dollars a week. Pissed doesn't describe what a feel, anger towards him doesn't describe what I feel.

It leaves a big gap for me that Ryan Harrison or Steve Higgs must feel immediately.

Our important dates for April:

Assistant coach Phil Walker has reminded you of some important dates in the month ahead:

3.4.2010 - Boston Town Under 18s v Diss Under 18s
3.4.2010 - Godmanchester v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)
10.4.2010 - Diss Under 18s v Swaffham Under 18s
10.4.2010 - Diss v Thetford (Eastern Counties D1)
14.4.2010 - Diss v Swaffham (Norfolk Senior Cup)
17.4.2010 - Diss v Brantham Ath (Eastern Counties D1)
24.4.2010 - Downham Under 18s v Diss Under 18s
24.4.2010 - Team Bury v Diss (Eastern Counties D1)

We need the win @ Thetford and the Cup Final, plus we should be able to pull the wins off against Brantham and Team Bury...that allows for a potential draw to happen at this upcoming match.

[MacroGuru]

Not much to say 3-4-3 going full out to get the points. Higgs is replacing Leo and he needs to shine.

Diss fortunate to beat Godmanchester
Godmanchester Rovers 1 - 2 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town recorded a somewhat fortuitous win over Godmanchester Rovers on a fine spring afternoon at Bearscroft Lane.

Young striker Steve Higgs gave Diss the lead with a real poacher's effort in the 35th minute. Lee scored from the penalty spot after Flood gave away a penalty. Young striker Jimmy Kennedy's 69th minute strike proved the only consolation for Rovers.

Attendance: 168

I don't feel we were fortunate, they were fortunate that Harris or Robinson couldn't convert today or it would have been a higher score. Steve Higgs goal though was a beauty from the top of the box to the lower right post into the net.

A man of the match performance from Steve Higgs proved just enough to lighten a dull game during Diss' 2 - 1 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Godmanchester, according to the Diss Soccer Informer.

The 16 year-old Diss striker got himself on the scoresheet and could perhaps have added another had it not been for the assistant referee's flag.

Higgs has made twenty-nine appearances for Diss so far this season, scoring two goals.

We still sit at 2nd with 56 points, while March is 1st with 61 points and Thetford is at 3rd with 52 points.

We also play Thetford next week at home.

[MacroGuru]

Talking with Phil we have these guys tactically so it should be ok. I prefer to like the fact we are at home.

3-4-3, Quick, Deep, Wide with the new keeper Bowles playing.

Quality finishing the difference at Brewers Green Lane
Diss Town 2 - 0 Thetford Town (Eastern Counties D1)

Thetford Town succumbed to a 2 - 0 loss in this afternoon's English Eastern Counties League Division One clash at Brewers Green Lane.

Veteran striker Jason Lee gave Diss the lead with a powerful effort in the 21st minute. Young midfielder Phil Skelton finally rounded off their victory in the 76th minute with a real poacher's effort.

Attendance: 214

What a solid well played game by everyone involved. Skelton was a beast, Lee and Higgs forced some runs and Botley uses his body well forcing players off the dribble.

Phil Skelton impressed during Diss' 2 - 0 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Thetford this afternoon, according to the Diss Soccer Informer.

The 17 year-old attacking midfielder took his goal well for Diss and generally looked lively.

Skelton has made eighteen appearances so far this season for The Tangerines, scoring two goals.

Skelton is playing quite well and deserved the MoM.

We sit at 2nd with 59 points. March is in 1st with 62 points and Great Yarmouth is 3rd with 54 points.

Our next match is the Norfolk County Senior Cup Match in 4 days.

[MacroGuru]

As we start ticking to the last two games of the season the player of the season shortlist is announced and we have 2 of our defenders on there with Kieran Drummond and Matty Hemseley.

Props to those two for a great season and here is hoping I get to keep them for next.

Also our Cup match was postponed due to a waterlogged field. So we will move on to Brantham Athletic at Home.

[MacroGuru]

We are picked as favorites but still running everything the same.

Robbie Harris has an offer out to him to play up a level...I offered him a first team contract, let's see if he takes it.

Diss in control as Brams are brushed aside
Diss Town 2 - 1 Brantham Athletic (Eastern Counties D1)

Diss Town battled to a deserved 2 - 1 victory over Brantham Athletic on a fine spring afternoon in their English Eastern Counties League Division One game at Brewers Green Lane. The match was certainly not one for the purists with neither team able to keep the errors out of their game.

Young goalkeeper Matt Bowles was left red-faced in the 45th minute as he managed to put the ball into his own net. Striker Anthony Robinson then equalized for Diss in the 49th minute with a good header from just inside the six yard box.

Diss also saw their 62nd minute strike disallowed in controversial circumstances. An error from Gareth Futcher allowed veteran striker Jason Lee to score a real poacher's effort.

Attendance: 235

Their only goal was an own goal as Matt Bowles punched the ball into the cross bar. Other than that they really did not compete this game.

Tom Botley was the best player on the park during Diss' 2 - 1 English Eastern Counties League Division One victory over Brantham Ath this afternoon and the margin of victory should have been even greater.

The Diss central midfielder played intelligently and, although he didn't get on the scoresheet himself, showed good awareness to create a goal.

Botley currently has 15 months remaining on his $0 p/w deal at Brewers Green Lane.

Not a bad game for Botley with a goal and an assist.

Next up is our Cup match in 4 days.

March secured a playoff spot with 65 points and 1st place....we sit at 62 points in 2nd place and Great Yarmouth is in 3rd with 57 points.

[MacroGuru]

Not much to say here...just going to jump into the results:

Quality of possession provides victory
Diss Town 2 - 0 Swaffham Town (Norfolk Senior Cup Final)

An efficient performance from Diss earned them a 2 - 0 win over Swaffham Town at The Walks Stadium. The match was certainly not one for the purists with neither team able to keep the errors out of their game.

Veteran winger David Farrell showed a sign of things to come though as he nearly gifted Diss a goal in the 11th minute. Farrell's sloppy performance led to a mistake which nearly gifted Diss a goal in the 11th minute. An error from Joe May allowed veteran striker Jason Lee to score a placed shot.

Diss captain Kieran Drummond finally rounded off their victory in the 79th minute with a good header from just inside the six yard box.

Attendance: 1453

The nerves were there as the crowd of close to 1500 was chanting, cheering, singing the club songs...it was crazy...but we won. Lee and Drummond were both critical pick ups for us and I am happy they were here to help us achieve a cup win!

The win secured us an additional $3,330.

Diss have won the Norfolk County FA Senior Cup after a 2 - 0 win over Swaffham at The Walks Stadium.

Despite being underdogs, Diss has pulled off an outstanding achievement and Tangerines fans will celebrate this for some time to come. Head coach Thomas Dennis has been labeled the mastermind behind the success and must surely go down as a legend in the history of the club.

Diss overcame Dersingham, North Walsham and Horsford Utd along their path to glory.

The Diss Town board have issued a statement declaring that they are very happy with victory in the Norfolk County FA Senior Cup and are grateful to head coach Dennis Thomas for doing the club proud.

They stated their surprise at this achievement and wished to thank Dennis for leading the club to this unexpected success.

Kieran Drummond takes home the MoM award!

Kieran Drummond impressed during Diss' 2 - 0 Norfolk County FA Senior Cup Final victory over Swaffham this evening, according to the Diss Soccer Informer.

The Diss central defender enjoyed a good game for his team and more than deserved his goal.

Drummond has made twenty-three appearances so far this season for The Tangerines, scoring four goals.

We are down to our last match of the season against Team Bury at their place. A win for us followed by a March loss actually would secure 1st place for us. Other than that, anything else and we are locked in at 2nd place.

[MacroGuru]

Again, not wanting to type up much, just want to get to the game!

Tangerines made to rue missed chances
Team Bury FC 2 - 1 Diss Town (Eastern Counties D1)

After appearing to just have the edge in this hard-fought battle, Diss Town's players and fans will be very disappointed to have lost 2 - 1 to a Team Bury FC team they consider to be their equal.

Young striker David Robson got Team Bury off to a flying start by scoring a fine header from pointblank range in the 2nd minute. Young striker Steve Higgs then equalized for Diss in the 7th minute with a placed shot.

Midfielder Russell Ashman then clinched a late winner for the home team in the 89th minute with a fine header from pointblank range. Ashman's impact delighted the fans with his late goal.

Attendance: 143

We came out flat, tired and that sealed it. Although we picked up steam in the 2nd half on increasing our opportunities their keeper was on fire all game long.

The loss gives March the auto promotion and we now have to play to promote. The draw is in 10 days.

Now the scary part about this one is trying to keep the squad together. Jason Lee has 5 other offers from clubs out there while we are looking at other players getting nipped. I need to comb the transfer lists and secure some more talent at the striker position.

[MacroGuru]

Our important dates in May:

Assistant coach Phil Walker has reminded you of some important dates in the month ahead:

1.5.2010 - Diss Under 18s v March Under 18s
8.5.2010 - Mildenhall Under 18s v Diss Under 18s
9.5.2010 - English Eastern Counties League Division One Promotion Playoff Semi Final
10.5.2010 - English Eastern Counties League Division One Promotion Playoff Final Draw
10.5.2010 - Finland Under 19s v England Under 19s (Euro U19 Ch'ship Quals)
12.5.2010 - English Eastern Counties League Division One Promotion Playoff Final
12.5.2010 - England Under 19s v Scotland Under 19s (Euro U19 Ch'ship Quals)
15.5.2010 - Czech Republic Under 19s v England Under 19s (Euro U19 Ch'ship Quals)

[MacroGuru]

We were given $10,000 for our finish in EC1.

We are now playing against Goodrich on May 9th which is 8 days away.Goodrich is in the English West Midlands League Premier Division. Looks like they run a 4-4-2 and finished 2nd in their division.

We have immediately gone out and made some offers to players that are talented strikers because we need to make sure we are protected for if/when Lee leaves.

We set up a friendly with Deal so the team doesn't get rusty and played on the 4th so it gives them 6 days of rest leading up to the game and it allowed me to get the whole team some PT. We ended up in a draw 1-1 vs Deal, who is Div 9 team.

[MacroGuru]

In all aspects we dominate except for the determination which this team is better than us on.

I stick with the old standby of 3-4-3, Quick, Wide, And High.

Goodrich pay the penalty
Diss Town 1 - 1 Goodrich FC (Level 10 Divisions Pro. Playoff Semi Final)

(Diss won 5-4 on penalties)

In a match involving two very evenly-matched teams, Diss Town recorded a somewhat fortuitous win over Goodrich FC at Diss Stadium this afternoon.

Veteran striker Paul Furlong gave Diss the lead with a powerful close range effort which was deflected on its way in in the 19th minute. Winger Greg Dickinson then equalized for Goodrich after 35 minutes with an effort from the edge of the area.

Then followed controversy as Goodrich were denied claims by young striker David Walsh for a penalty. In the shootout that followed it was left to goalkeeper Ross Cobb to keep a cool head and smash home the winning penalty for Diss.

Attendance: 424

We Win! We Win! Diss Wins! What an amazing game, our boys were worn out at the end of the match and almost let a few go by in the extra time. Good thing Cobb stood fast and played awesome. I felt he deserved Man of the Match but it was given to a Goodrich player.

Dennis leads Diss to promotion

Diss fans are in jubilant mood after Dennis Thomas led them to the incredible feat of promotion from the English Eastern Counties League Division One.

A fans' spokesman announced that Dennis was undoubtedly one of the best head coaches around and are desperately hoping that he stays with the club for years to come.
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Diss delight at 'unexpected' promotion

The Tangerines board announced to the press that they are extremely pleased that the team have secured promotion from the English Eastern Counties League Division One.

In a brief statement, a spokesperson for the board declared that promotion had not been on the cards at the start of the season and the board wanted to put on record their gratitude to head coach Dennis Thomas for delivering the unthinkable.

Sitting out on the field just relishing the victory in the rainstorm and I am tapped on the shoulder, turning around to see who would disturb me in my moment of joy I am greeted by the big jovial man that encouraged me to apply for this job.

"Nick! What the hell are you doing here?" I stutter, completely stunned to see my former co-worker that has traveled close to 5000 miles in front of me.

"Well, you see I could not sit at home while one of my favorite mates is running the club I support into promotion now can I?" He cracks a smile and we start laughing.

We slap each other on the back and start heading for the locker room.

"You know Dennis, things are going to get pretty lively around here with this promotion, I think I will stick around."

I look at him and smile "You quit your job?"

"Actually my father recently passed and I didn't know about the fund he set up for me and the family, we are moving back and I am going to run my own business out here, and why not look over your shoulder, support you and have someone to vent to?"

I smile knowing that what he says is true. I have a stack of offers for Harris and others sitting on my desk waiting for me, the can do just that for a night, wait.

[MacroGuru]

Here we sit in the middle of June and we have lost:

Jason Lee - Alsager
Robbie Harris - Guildford

The thing that pisses me off is that they both jumped to Division 9 teams...granted they are getting paid versus not.

We have managed to bring in two new midfielders to help out with the depth issues that we experienced towards the end of the season.

Cameron from Gorleston and Jackson came to us from a Division club.

I also ended up promoting a couple of youth as well for the club.

I didn't have the ability to arrange friendlies last season but to reward the guys and boost our coffers we are traveling to several overseas friendlies. We have 4 of them we are traveling to the farthest being to South Korea. When all is said and done we will be paid out close to $80,000 for the trips.

Phil managed to book another 4 friendlies so we have 8 altogether.

I also asked the board to find us a parent club which they were unable to do. The other thing is our shirt sponsor deal we were able to close was for $3,000 a year, a slight boost above the $1,000 we were getting.

[MacroGuru]

Diss' Fans' Player of the Year decided

Diss supporter spokesperson, Derek Kellaway, has announced that Jason Houghton has been voted Diss' Player of the Year by the fans.

Diss Best Eleven announced

The Best Eleven for this season has been announced by the Diss supporter spokesperson, Derek Kellaway.

Jason Houghton was the pick of the players, the defender having made 42 appearances and scored 2 goals for the team at an average rating of 7.07 this season.

The rest of the Best Eleven squad was: Tom Botley, Alex Brock, Josh Clover, Ross Cobb, Mick Cousins, Phil Day, Kieran Drummond, Neil French, Elliot Greene, Robbie Harris, Ryan Harrison, Matty Hemsley, Steve Higgs, Anthony Robinson, Luke Short, Phil Skelton and Danny Tilbury.

Diss announce new intake of youth players

Your assistant coach Phil Walker has informed you that the following players have been promoted to your youth team.

Paul Young (Diss), D/DM R; Gary Charnock (Diss), AM LC; Scott Poole (Diss), F C; Edward Parkinson (Diss), D C; Edward Ward (Colchester), S C; Paul Hall (Diss), D C; John Wakefield (Diss), M C; Ian Hearn (Diss), S C; Tommy Browne (Diss), GK; Steve Barton (Diss), AM L; John Halliday (Diss), D RL.

Walker is excited by Paul Hall whom he feels has the potential to be one of the most gifted players to come through the youth ranks at Diss in recent years.

Diss turn semi-professional

With the club playing in the English Eastern Counties League Premier Division, the Diss board have decided to make the step up and turn the club semi-professional.

They have indicated that in the future, players and staff are likely to be given part-time contracts.

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With the addition of salaries I ask the club to open up the coffers so I can make additional offers to current players, however they denied me.

It looks like I get to play with tight purse strings and move players around now.

Right now we have 3 players on P/T contracts:

• DC Matty Hemesley
• GK Ross Cobb
• DC Jason Houghton

I promptly offer Phil a P/T contract worth the $75 a week he is asking just to get him out of the Amateur contract aspect.

Sky Bet has released their odds of promotion...
English Eastern Counties League Premier Division promotion odds from Sky Bet

You and Carlton have been made 1.20 joint favorites to gain promotion from the English Eastern Counties League Premier Division this season.

The rest of the main contenders are priced at: 1.67 - Arnold, 1.67 - King's Lynn Reserves, 1.80 - Leiston and 1.80 - Dereham.

WOW! We are one of the odds on favorites at promotion this season, I am excited but I do not know if the players are ready for that kind of pressure.

[MacroGuru]

We are at the end of July and just starting to ramp up to prepare for the season with our friendlies and league matches coming up.

I needed to get this group together a few days before our match against Marist in the Solomon Islands.

I also have six players that are wanted by other clubs:

• Jason Houghton
• Mick Cousins
• Alex Brock
• Luke Short
• Ryan Harrison
• Kieran Drummond

I offer up PT contracts to Houghton, Cousins, Brock, and Drummond. I do know I am over contract but I hope the board allows for the signings these 4 are critical to our success.

Going into our game Phil thinks we should run a 4-3-1-2 which I agree with.

The Tangerines shocked by superb Diss
Diss Town 2 - 0 Diss Town Under 18s (Friendly)

A fantastic performance by Diss Town saw overcome a disappointing Diss Town Under 18s.

Diss finally took the lead when striker Anthony Robinson scored a real poacher's effort in the 54th minute. Young centre-back Edward Parkinson then summed up his team's performance by nearly gifting Diss another goal in the 77th minute.

Robinson completed the scoring for Diss with a powerful effort in the 90th minute.

Attendance: 0

The thing is the scoring did not take place until I moved back into the 3-3-1-3 that I have been running for the past year.

It was a good game and I got a look at the talent and these friendlies we play will allow me to determine some more where I need to be, plus give us some much needed cash.

[MacroGuru]

Alright we roll into July and here is our Calendar email from Phil:

Assistant coach Phil Walker has reminded you of some important dates in the month ahead:

2.7.2010 - Marist (SOL) v Diss (Friendly)
3.7.2010 - Slovakia v England (World Cup)
10.7.2010 - Uncles v Diss (Friendly)
11.7.2010 - Lowestoft v Diss (Friendly)
13.7.2010 - England Under 19s v Croatia Under 19s (Euro U19 Ch'ship)
13.7.2010 - Brache Sparta v Diss (Friendly)
15.7.2010 - Spain Under 19s v England Under 19s (Euro U19 Ch'ship)
15.7.2010 - Diss v Billericay (Friendly)
18.7.2010 - Korean FA v Diss (Friendly)
18.7.2010 - Portugal Under 19s v England Under 19s (Euro U19 Ch'ship)
21.7.2010 - Diss v GH Academy (Friendly)
23.7.2010 - Diss v Redbridge (Friendly)
26.7.2010 - Diss v Chobham (Friendly)
29.7.2010 - Diss v Concord Rangers (Friendly)
31.7.2010 - English FA Cup First Qualifying Round Draw

What a busy month and I am thankful I can cycle through the team to allow for rest and such and get them all into game shape.

I was offered a contract from the club. They wanted me to ink for 3 years at 180/pw and I want to make them sweat but not to hard so I asked for 2 instead of 3. If I can get the promotion this season again we will hit them hard on a contract.

I am getting slightly concerned that the four players I offered that are wanted have yet to sign while other players have signed their PT contract.

[MacroGuru]

Note: I didn't want to break down each friendly match in depth like I do my regular matches...so I am going to provide the cliff notes...

2.7.2010 - Marist (SOL) v Diss (Friendly) W 3-0
10.7.2010 - Uncles v Diss (Friendly) D 1-1
11.7.2010 - Lowestoft v Diss (Friendly) L 1-0
13.7.2010 - Brache Sparta v Diss (Friendly) W 2-1
15.7.2010 - Diss v Billericay (Friendly) L 4-0
18.7.2010 - Korean FA v Diss (Friendly) D 0-0
21.7.2010 - Diss v GH Academy (Friendly) L 2-1
23.7.2010 - Diss v Redbridge (Friendly) W 2-0
26.7.2010 - Diss v Chobham (Friendly) W 3-1
29.7.2010 - Diss v Concord Rangers (Friendly) W 1-0
3.8.2010 - Diss v Dartford (Friendly) D 1-1
We played teams that were our equal or better than us for most of the month and to come out 5-3-4 made me happy.

Also, with all of our friendlies we generated an income of about $68,000 from us willing to travel overseas and to other countries. That windfall set us up for the board to allow for $2,000 a week in salaries.

So I went from being yelled out about having a $1100 a week payroll to being a saint for keeping it so low.

At the end of the month the guys were tired but they were definitely getting into match shape and that made for all the difference in the world rolling into the Division games.